Eastern Shore of Maryland Charm, A Hydrangea-Filled Celebration by the Water!

Hailing from the East Coast, Callie and Mike envisioned a wedding that exuded preppy elegance while being coastal chic. Their dream was to be enveloped in a sea of hydrangeas and an array of blue hues and patterns. The Oaks Waterfront Hotel, with its refined ambiance and picturesque setting, proved to be the quintessential backdrop for their summer soiree, perfectly aligning with their sophisticated vision.

In June of 2023, Callie and Mike embarked on a month-long sojourn through the enchanting landscapes of Italy. Amidst their romantic escapade, on the third day of their journey, Mike chose the most breathtaking vantage point in Florence to propose. There, against the backdrop of the city's timeless splendor, he presented Callie with an exquisite engagement ring, making the moment as unforgettable as the view.

Callie’s wedding gown, a masterpiece from Ti Adora by Allison Webb, epitomized coastal elegance with its strapless trumpet silhouette and detachable train, perfectly complementing the seaside charm of their celebration. Following the cake-cutting, Callie transitioned into an enchanting after-party ensemble adorned with sparkling gems, allowing her to dance the night away in radiant style.

The bridesmaids were dressed in Alfred Sung creations, each selecting a style that resonated with their individual taste. The ensemble included a sophisticated mix of dresses in serene shades of blue and white, some adorned with exquisite blue chinoiserie patterns and others showcasing elegant bows at the back. These thoughtfully chosen gowns harmonized beautifully with the wedding’s floral design, enhancing the overall aesthetic with their refined and cohesive elegance.

The groomsmen were impeccably attired in classic tuxedos, embodying timeless sophistication. Their elegant ensembles contributed to the refined and polished atmosphere of the occasion.

All food was hand-made and provided by the Oaks Waterfront Hotel. Executive Chef, Jono Morris, created a truly unforgettable menu, highlighting the best of the Eastern Shore and hand-made cuisine. Guests were treated to a raw bar featuring fresh local oysters, followed by heirloom tomato tartare with truffle oil and a refreshing cantaloupe soup made from locally sourced cantaloupes. The main course was a classic ‘surf and turf’ with Eastern Shore jumbo lump crab. To finish, The Oaks’ signature dessert station showcased an assortment of seasonal bite-sized desserts like brownies, lime panna cotta, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and rich chocolate mousse.

Pretty Little Wedding Co did an exceptional job with the floral design. The blue and white floral color palette paired with touches of chinoiserie was a true blend of classic elegance meets the Eastern Shore of Maryland. A fluffy hydrangea garland for the sweetheart table set the stage; and a combination of multiple centerpieces, utilizing our chinoiserie vase collection created a dynamic reception space ready to have fans of the color blue swooning. Repurposing the ceremony arrangements to add additional decor and florals gave the reception space the wow-factor Callie and Mike were looking for.

The wedding cake, a ‘lemon chiffon’ with vanilla buttercream and lemon curd, was the perfect ending to the evening, also provided by the Oaks Waterfront Hotel. The white cake was gracefully adorned with delicate white flowers, embodying elegance and simplicity. Additionally, Callie and Mike delighted their guests with an opulent dessert table, featuring a lavish array of confections and sweet treats, allowing for indulgence well into the evening.

Following their ceremony, the newlyweds made a memorable exit to the lively strains of Cheap Trick’s “I Want You to Want Me,” seamlessly transitioning to an intimate bridal picnic aboard a boat. There, Callie and Mike exchanged their vows and captured their first moments as a married couple in a series of stunning portraits. For their first dance, the couple chose the evocative “Here on Out” by Dave Matthews Band, while the Bachelor Boys Band delivered an exceptional performance, ensuring the dance floor remained alive with energy throughout the evening.

At the conclusion of their enchanting wedding celebration, Callie and Mike, joined by their bridal party, took a joyous plunge into the pool. This spontaneous and spirited gesture added a delightful, carefree note to an already unforgettable evening.

Callie and Mike celebrated their rehearsal dinner at The Crab Claw in St. Michaels, Maryland, a sentimental venue that held special significance as it was also where Mike’s parents had their own rehearsal dinner years earlier. The evening was marked by impeccable cuisine and charming details, including tables adorned with newspapers heralding the headline, "Callie and Mike are Getting Married!" While the couple had originally planned to arrive by boat, inclement weather necessitated a change in plans. They were greeted with a surprising sight once they arrived at the restaurant—a parking lot completely under water from the recent hurricane. Fortunately, the gracious staff ensured a memorable arrival, transporting the guests to the restaurant’s entrance in the bed of a Ford F150.