Brittany and Mike tied the knot at their Great Marsh Estate wedding on a beautiful late summer’s day, graced with sunshine and happiness. This couple really compliment each other perfectly. He’s the outgoing jokester and she’s the quieter introvert. But together they are the kind, loving and thoughtful couple who value family and friends. They are also the most gracious hosts to all of their guests.
The first time I met Brittany and Mike was at their National Arboretum engagement session. I knew immediately that they were perfect for each other. Their personalities complemented each other and it was a joy to hear about how they met and fell in love. Then I was further honored with the privilege of photographing Brittany’s bridal portrait session the month before their wedding. Having that extra time with Brittany and her mother was a special treat. Needless to say, I was anticipating the Big Day for some time and I know they were even moreso!
The Day Begins
Brittany and Mike’s wedding day details held the sweetest hues of pale blues and greens. The invitations boasted a lovely rendering of the Great Marsh Estate, courtesy of Every Little Letter. Emily of Love Blooms created the perfect floral masterpieces to complement Brittany’s vision for the day.
Jennifer of May June Events made sure these incredible succulent boutonnieres were pinned securely in place for each of the groomsmen.
Bridal preparations were underway inside the mansion. Brittany finished her bridal preparations in the bridal quite at Great Marsh Estate with the help of her mother.
Once she was ready, Brittany experienced a “Big Reveal” first look with her bridesmaids. They were overwhelmed by her incredible selection in bridal gown…and of course, by how beautiful she looked! Her inner beauty radiated, complimented by the sparkles in her stunning Pnina Tornai gown.
Even though I had photographed Brittany the month before for her bridal portraits, we still made sure to capture her on the wedding day along with her lovely bouquet from Love Blooms DC.
And of course, we photographed Brittany and her ladies behind the mansion together prior to Brittany’s first look with Mike.
The Men
The Men prepared for the Big Day in the groom’s lounge at Great Marsh Estate. They tied ties, fixed coat jackets and spent quality time with Mike.
After preparing for the day, Mike posed for his formal groom’s portraits as well on the back veranda at Great Marsh Estate and out of the hot sun.
He then spent time with his groomsmen and his immediate family prior to his first look with Brittany.
The First Look
Brittany and Mike shared the sweetest first look behind the mansion at Great Marsh Estate. She came down the staircase with a sly smile and tapped him on the shoulder. They enjoyed some time together in a private exchange prior to all eyes being fixed on them during the ceremony.
We then took the time for some romantic couples’ portraits around the estate. It was an honor to provide them with images to last a lifetime and beyond.
We also took advantage of the gorgeous floral hoop that Emily of Love Blooms DC created prior to the ceremony.
And even the edges of the back of the house were lovely. We photographed portraits for a little while and then got them back inside and out of the heat!
Brittany and Mike’s bridal party posed for some portraits together as well. What a fun and stunning group of guys and gals!
After family formals and donning her veil, it was time for the ceremony.
The Ceremony
The ceremony site was sunny and just as lovely as could be. As Brittany and Mike’s guests were seated, the music began to play and the processional began.
Brittany’s father escorted her down to Mike and the ceremony began. It was a beautiful ceremony, complete with Brittany and Mike even taking a moment to survey their guests and surroundings, thankful for all they have.
The two exchanged vows and looked as happy and contented as could be before they walked back down the aisle as husband and wife.
Once they had sealed the deal with a kiss and walked back down the aisle, they shared some family formal time, hugs with grandma and a few images together before the reception and golden hour.
How sweet is Brittany and her grandma?!!
The Reception Begins
The reception details were personal and full of luscious greens. The escort cards let each guest know exactly where to sit. The tables were beautifully decorated in hues of green and blue.
The head table was also intimate and full of thick and beautiful greens. The succulents were sweet favors thanking each guest as well.
The reception opened with the grand entrance of the bride and groom and they moved directly into their first dance as husband and wife.
While the guests began their dinner, we escaped for a few romantic portraits during that beloved golden hour!
Golden Hour
The sun was setting as we walked back toward the manor and that golden glow welcomed us into the evening.
The sunset illuminated the back of the mansion and we took full advantage of its complimentary warmth.
Brittany twirled and whirled in her veil and her reception dress. She was lovely in a Jude JoWilson bridal gown and overskirt that was absolutely perfect for her slender build.
We also made out way to the front of the mansion as the sun was saying its last goodbyes of the evening. Taking advantage of the candles still lit, Brittany and Mike enjoyed some twirls and kisses right at dusk.
The Evening Continues
Upon returning to the reception, Brittany and Mike heard some special toasts from family members. The brothers’ speeches were filled with a common thread…these two both love deeply and care for family and one another with a fierce loyalty.
There such sweet stories and sentiments. It was a joy to learn even more about these two through the words of their friends and family. After the toasts, Brittany shared a special dance with her father and Mike shared one with his mother.
Brittany and Mike were surprised with a Dabka dancing troupe. Not only did they entertain, but they encouraged the crowd to get up and dance with them. They also gave the bride and groom an opportunity to beat the drums and dance together.
It was so much fun to see the entire group enjoy the dancing at the reception. Both families were the most gracious hosts and enjoyed each other’s company.
Brittany and Mike also enjoyed a sparkler celebration outside of The Stable at Great Marsh Estate with their bridal party. It was a sweet, intimate sparkler celebration.
The entire day was perfect from start to finish. Lauren of Great Marsh Estate and Jennifer of May June Events made sure the wedding day was incredible. It was such an honor to witness Brittany and Mike tie the knot surrounded by their closest family and friends. I am so thankful they trusted me with their Big Day!
Thank YOU!
Keep scrolling for more highlights from Brittany and Mike’s incredible Great Marsh Estate Wedding Day! And thank you to these special folks who made the day so very lovely:
Venue: Great Marsh Estate
Planning: May June Events
Florals: Love Blooms DC
Hair and Make Up: Yisell Santos Hair and Make Up
Catering: Harvest Moon
Wedding Ceremony Gown: Pnina Tornai
Bridal Boutique: Kleinfeld Bridal
Wedding Reception Gown and Overskirt: Jude Jowilson
Bridal Boutique: Elegance by Roya Bridal
Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Veil: Pnina Tornai
Bridesmaid Dresses: Revelry
Invitation Suite: Every Little Letter
Table Numbers/Welcome Sign: Adorning Oaks
Escort Cards: Birch and Quill
Wedding Rings: Washington Diamond
Ring Box: The Mrs. Box
Band: Bachelor Boys Band
Cake Artist and Desserts: Bijou Sweet Treats
Styling Board: The Lux Bindery
To see more Great Marsh Estate weddings, engagements and anniversary sessions, peruse HERE.
Michelle Lieb with Lieb Photographic is a Virginia Wedding Photographer, Charlottesville Wedding Photographer, Baltimore Wedding Photographer and Maryland Wedding Photographer. She is also a Washington DC Wedding Photographer, Phoenix Wedding Photographer, Arizona Wedding Photographer and a Destination Wedding Photographer!
