Stories of weddings from couples across the region
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PRESIDENT Orestes Baez obaez@chespub.com
PRESIDENT Orestes Baez obaez@chespub.com
PUBLISHER
PUBLISHER
Betsy Griffin bgriffin@chespub.com
Betsy Griffin bgriffin@chespub.com
EXECUTIVE
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Eli Wohlenhaus ewohlenhaus@chespub.com
Eli Wohlenhaus ewohlenhaus@chespub.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
YYes, I am the editor of a wedding magazine, but also, yes, it had admittedly been a while since I had been to a wedding. That is, until last October when a cousin of mine got married. After a brief flight to Oklahoma and back, I found myself two months later at Christmastime with a request from my lifelong best friend to be his best man.
es, I am the editor of a wedding magazine, but also, yes, it had admittedly been a while since I had been to a wedding. That is, until last October when a cousin of mine got married. After a brief flight to Oklahoma and back, I found myself two months later at Christmastime with a request from my lifelong best friend to be his best man.
Two midwest weddings in successive years. Business is boomin’! I know I have documented this in previous editions, but in case you don’t remember an editor letter from years ago, I will briefly remind you that I grew up in southwest Missouri to a pastor. I also quickly found myself in my teen years running a sound board for the church I was attending and my mother had a short stint working for a local florist, meaning I got some volunteer hours there.
Two midwest weddings in successive years. Business is boomin’! I know I have documented this in previous editions, but in case you don’t remember an editor letter from years ago, I will briefly remind you that I grew up in southwest Missouri to a pastor. I also quickly found myself in my teen years running a sound board for the church I was attending and my mother had a short stint working for a local florist, meaning I got some volunteer hours there.
Needless to say, I was around a lot of midwest weddings growing up. Then, I migrated to the Mid-Atlantic and was shown a whole new world. Churches were substituted for venues on the water with lush gardens. Sermons were substituted for energetic dance parties. My eyes were open — and I have been so fortunate. The wedding scene here is incredible and it goes beyond the Bay. What really makes this region so special is the growing list of wonderful vendors.
Needless to say, I was around a lot of midwest weddings growing up. Then, I migrated to the Mid-Atlantic and was shown a whole new world. Churches were substituted for venues on the water with lush gardens. Sermons were substituted for energetic dance parties. My eyes were open — and I have been so fortunate. The wedding scene here is incredible and it goes beyond the Bay. What really makes this region so special is the growing list of wonderful vendors.
The people who work in the wedding business continue to impress me. From rentals to catering to bakers, florists, venues and more, I know I speak for all of us at Chesapeake Bay Wedding magazine when I say we appreciate you so much. I learn more every edition and continue to look forward to creating these magazines each year.
The people who work in the wedding business continue to impress me. From rentals to catering to bakers, florists, venues and more, I know I speak for all of us at Chesapeake Bay Wedding magazine when I say we appreciate you so much. I learn more every edition and continue to look forward to creating these magazines each year.
Thank you for reading!
Thank you for reading!
Eli Wohlenhaus
Eli Wohlenhaus
Have ideas for what you want to see in Chesapeake Bay Wedding magazine?
Have ideas for what you want to see in Chesapeake Bay Wedding magazine?
Email me at ewohlenhaus@chespub.com.
Email me at ewohlenhaus@chespub.com.
Jennifer Quinn jennquinncreative@gmail.com
Jennifer Quinn jennquinncreative@gmail.com
ADVERTISING
ADVERTISING
Jo Ann Geiger jgeiger@chespub.com
Jo Ann Geiger jgeiger@chespub.com
Stacy Moreland smoreland@chespub.com
Stacy Moreland smoreland@chespub.com
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Chad Campbell ccampbell@chespub.com
Chad Campbell ccampbell@chespub.com
CONTRIBUTING CONTENT CREATORS
CONTRIBUTING CONTENT CREATORS
Jennifer Quinn, Cecelia Shilling, James Young, Samantha Graessle, Britt Fraker, Brian Crow, Anna Zink, Johnson,
Jennifer Quinn, Cecelia Shilling, James Young, Samantha Graessle, Britt Fraker, Brian Crow, Anna Zick, Jim Johnson, Eli Wohlenhaus
“I really can’t say enough good things about our experience and it was the absolute hands-down best choice to hand over our ideas and wishes to the staff of Brampton to create our perfect, unforgettable wedding weekend.”
TRIP ADVISOR GUEST
• We offer luxurious limousine services for all occasions.
• From weddings, bachelor(ette) parties, corporate events, prom, homecoming, or anight on the town.
Styled Shoot by JennQuinn Creative Story by Cecelia Shilling
Brittland Manor hummed with chatter and excitement as local vendors, Chesapeake Bay Wedding Magazine staff and other staff watched a young couple pose in luxe wedding attire — the fall cover shoot had finally begun.
“We’ll have to make our kids guess which photos are from the real wedding or the fake one,” said Jessie Casey, a dance instructor and the bride-of-the-day, as well as real-life wife to U.S. Marine Corps Captain Ryan Casey.
Brittland Manor, a stately 1930s brick mansion located in Chestertown, sits on more than 500 acres of fields and greenery right on the Chester River. A winding grand staircase and brilliant chandelier hang inside the entryway, opposite charming farm-themed wallpaper. Outside lie brick patios and the first pool built in
Golden Gardens
Queen Anne’s County, according to Natalie Turner, director of sales and marketing at Brittland.
The theme, “golden gardens,” presented a regal take on the “Old Money” aesthetic that took over the internet in recent years. Creative director and photographer Jenn Quinn crafted a dreamy indoor setup for the fall cover featuring floral greens, classic creams and gilded metals.
The home hosts many outdoor weddings during peak season and doubles as a secluded, luxurious vacation rental. Recently, the venue has extended its wedding season through the end of the year for more intimate events during the colder months.
The couple at the center of it all was married at a similar venue on Dec. 28, 2023.
“When we first started dating, we were both extremely busy, so we had to make the most of the time that we had together,” Jessie said. “So we spent a lot of time going out to eat. That’s probably my favorite thing to do. Because Ryan is very generous, he always lets me order two things that I pick, and then he shares them with me.”
Jessie and Ryan were married at the Belmont Country Club in Ashburn, Virginia, about two and a half years after the pair met on a dating app in 2021. The couple chose a date squarely in the holiday season to make sure all their military friends and family could attend.
“Country club house is basically a really old manor. Similar to Brittland, but a little smaller,” Jessie said. “I think that’s really when we fell in love with it, because it just had so much character. Each room was different, there was history, and it felt like somewhere our guests could kind of explore and kind of have an experience.”
Up the grand staircase, Ryan relaxed while Jessie got ready with the makeup artist and hairstylist of Images Salon & Spa, Sarah Milburn and Julie Puglisi.
Milburn, who specializes in bridal makeup, and Puglisi, who specializes in event hair, chatted with Jessie like old friends. Everyone working the shoot seemed to treat each other like old friends, especially when Lisa Powell, catering manager and pastry chef at The Fish Whistle, joined the trio in the get-ready room.
They discussed the events they worked on most recently and shared family stories. Jessie told them about matching with her now-husband on Hinge, joking about his profile photos and the jean shorts he had on.
The makeup, framed with a swoopy but polished updo, was simple but elegant and airbrushed. The dress, provided by Brooke and June Bridal, was a white ballgown with 3D florals down the skirt and on the veil.
“The 3Ds are always a hit,” Kallie German, Brooke and June owner, said.
Finally downstairs, Jessie and Ryan posed surrounded by oversized white and green florals provided by Wildly Native Flower Farm.
We use flowers that people maybe have never heard of or never thought of for a wedding
Nicole Castelli
“We use flowers that people maybe have never heard of or never thought of for a wedding,” Nicole Castelli said, who handles wedding logistics and floral design at Wildly Native. “It provides a different view of wedding florals than what’s traditional while still being elevated in design and elegant and timeless.”
Throughout the manor, the pair sat in antique furniture by sunsoaked windows, giggling and grinning in their dress clothes. Quinn shot solo portraits of Ryan in a moody office, lined by bookshelves with titles like “Beautiful Cathedrals of Britain” and “The Memoirs of Cleopatra.”
“I want to open all the doors or pull the books,” Puglisi said. “I think I would find a hidden passageway. I think under the carpets there might be a trap door.”
Tall candles flickered between vases of flowers on the dining table across the hall. Picture-perfect plates of smoked salmon rolls with cucumber and pickled onions were crafted by The Fish Whistle’s co-owner and chef Jeff Carroll.
“We customize for every wedding,” Powell said. “I have a conversation with [the couple] and I say ‘what are your favorite things?’ I think it sets us aside a little bit from other caterers because it’s their day and it should represent them.”
At the far end of the room, a dessert table overflowed with breathtaking sweets, featuring a three-tiered lemon cake with blueberry filling from Cakes by Abby and intricately painted goodies by Bespoke Chocolates.
“I always baked growing up, but I wasn’t necessarily into making cakes pretty — I was just always about making them delicious,” said cake decorator Abigail Robson. “I didn’t think of myself as an artistic person. I thought of myself as very logical and by-the-book. I was shocked and pleased to discover this part of myself when I started ‘Cakes by Abby.’”
As Quinn took some of the final shots of the day, a small speaker in her back pocket crooned Bruno Mars’ “Just The Way You Are,” as Jessie and Ryan prepared to leave the dining room and head outside.
Waiting in the winding driveway of the home was a white 1961 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II, a stunning
Celebrate your most cherished memories at Magnolia Manor. Magnolia Manor offers a stunning water view from the nineteenth centur y manor house, located on the bank s of the Tred Avon River. The venue brings life to the past, present, and future with each celebration.
We encourage our couples to engage their beloved vendors, creating an experience that is as uniquely well-celebrated as possible.
I get emotional about some of our weddings just because you get to know the bride and groom.
Lisa Powell
vintage car delivered by Edward Higginbotham of Concours Vintage Limousines. The couple ended their shoot resting in the leather rear seat of the vehicle.
The inside of Brittland Manor overflowed with friendly small talk and chatter that day, bursting with the smalltown charm that Maryland’s Eastern Shore towns are known for. Powell noted the strong connections she makes with her local wedding couples, especially since she hopes to continue seeing them visit her restaurant for years to come.
“I get emotional about some of our weddings just because you get to know the bride and groom. I spend probably a year with them, back and forth, on the phone and emailing,” Powell said. “Later in life, you see things that they’ve accomplished and whatnot. It’s not just about the food, it’s about all of it.”
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Home at Four Waters
STORY BY SAMANTHA GRAESSLE
Finding the perfect wedding location can be difficult, however for bride-tobe Courtney Young, the decision was simple.
She and her fiance Andrew Lefcourt were looking for an elevated coastal location and when they came across Four Waters, they knew their search was over.
“When we drove up to Four Waters, we were like, this is it. We immediately started planning,” Young said.
Nestled on a waterfront property in Southern Maryland where Back Creek, St. Patrick’s Creek, Saint Clements Bay and the Potomac River meet, Four Waters wedding venue is a picturesque location for couples to start their future together.
Owned by couple Ashley and David Chedester, the venue boasts almost 40 acres of land as well as over 2,500 ft of waterfront.
The Chedesters found and restored the old property and over the past year and half turned it from an abandoned eye sore to a romantic getaway.
“I always loved weddings and when my husband found the house we thought, ‘how can we make this work?”’ Ashley said.
Through their dedicated efforts the venue now showcases a reception house complete with a simple yet elegant dining area with gold fixtures and rustic highlights, a waterfront porch with a built-in sound system and bathrooms.
It also boasts a spacious grassy field surrounded by whimsical hanging trees overlooking the water in a secluded area away from any neighbors.
Blair Scroggs, who is the venue’s private wedding planner, said the location is beautiful and gives couples the ability to have their ceremony or reception in many different places on the property.
‘It doesn’t necessarily need to be outside, it can be in the building,” she said. “You can have it on the water, you can have it under the tree. You can put it in so many different locations, but it’s private.”
Scroggs, who has worked in weddings for the past 15 years, is part of the Chedester’s effort to help make their weddings as customer friendly as possible
Photos by Haley Michelle Photography
Four Waters
Photo by Haley Michelle Photography
Avenue, MD
by including a well-versed wedding planner in their fees.
Brooke & Justin Langley were married at Four Waters in May.
“Leading up to the wedding weekend, we met with Blair twice in person to go over details,” Brooke said. “She made sure that she was checking in on us and our progress throughout our wedding planning journey as well. Blair made sure that we were on schedule and that the day flowed. She made sure we had everything we needed — you should see her emergency kit — and kept the stress away from us.”
Another amenity offered by Four Waters that sets it apart is the charming vintage house offered so guests can stay on the property a few days leading up to the wedding and even the day after.
The three storied-house, which overlooks the field and creek, is complete with tasteful decorations, a kitchen, pool table, flat screen TV, multiple bedrooms, a balcony and even a hot tub.
“The house sleeps 11,” David said. “You can check in a day or two before your wedding, host your guests, have a space for your bridesmaids to get ready and not have to worry about going back and forth between the venue and home.”
David continued, saying couples can even have brunch there the morning after their wedding.
“I wanted things to be more relaxed where people had time to actually enjoy their wedding and spend time with their family and their guests instead of worrying about getting in and out as fast as possible,” David said.
Four Waters does not have set photographers, caterers, decorations or a DJ, allowing couples the flexibility to realize their dream wedding.
“We’re very big into having creative freedom, and we didn’t want a standard wedding venue,” Young said. “That was another big reason we chose Four Waters.”
Young said her fiance and her wanted something that was personal and would work with them.
“We didn’t want a wedding venue where we were just choosing dried chicken and boring tablecloths and a ballroom to celebrate the biggest event of our lives,” she said. “We wanted something that really cultivated who we were, and we were able to personalize every single detail, which has been super amazing.”
Ashley and David also knew from the beginning they wanted to be highly involved in the wedding process
to help create an idyllic experience to match the serene setting.
“We don’t just rent it. We’re there for you every step of the way,” David said. “We offer furniture, over 150 chairs for the wedding, parking assistance, radios for the whole crew… We’ll work with you on getting all the caterers you want, even for the reception dinner.”
David said they’ll help execute the vision couples want for decorations and will clean up the day after.
“We even offer kayaks for guests staying at the house,” David said. “The whole weekend is yours and we’re pretty much a blank slate.”
Although Four Waters only hosted its first wedding this year, thanks to its dedicated owners and its breathtaking scenery, it is already booked for several weddings from now through 2027.
“Four Waters will always hold a special place in our hearts,” Brooke said. “It was the perfect location for our wedding. We wish we could relive the weekend there and we might just have to renew our vows there one day.”
Photo by Haley Michelle Photography
Photo by Michelle Lee Photography
Photo by Michelle Lee Photography
Photo by Geneva
Barn of Nottingham
Photo by Christina Gomaz
Down on the farm
The Barn of Nottingham makes dreams come true
STORY BY JAMES YOUNG
If you’re seeking a wedding venue that features top-of-the-line modern amenities in a quaint, rustic setting, The Barn of Nottingham has you covered. Located in southern Chester County, Pennsylvania and set on 36 acres of pristine farmland, the barn is an idyllic setting for a dream ceremony. Once a functioning farm, the barn has been transformed by event manager Mallory Ward and her team into a prime destination for a once-in-a-lifetime event.
The barn itself is a spacious 7,000 square foot structure featuring traditional exposed-wood architecture within an antique stone façade. Modern updates to the historic structure include warm, inviting lighting features, a spacious bar area, a state-of-the-art caterer prep area and two newly renovated restrooms for ladies & gentlemen. The main ceremony area upstairs boasts a wide
variety of seating options to suit your exact needs, including dozens of wooden cross-back chairs, round tables that seat up to 12, long tables seating up to 10 and more intimate cocktail tables. It also includes a VIP loft with space for a DJ. The interior is both heated and air conditioned to ensure comfort at any time of the year.
The property also includes an antique farmhouse, accommodating up to six guests (three bedrooms, two bathrooms). The farmhouse doubles as a comfortable and private space for brides to prepare for their ceremony. A private groom’s den in the lower level of the main barn provides space for the groom and his party to get ready, featuring a large mirror, comfortable seating and a mini fridge.
Outdoor ceremonies are also very popular at the barn; the outdoor ceremony grounds overlook a gorgeous pond, providing a picturesque natural
Photo by Heather Lynne Photography
Photo provided by the Barn of Nottingham
Photo provided by the Barn of Nottingham
Photo by Elegant Exposures by Britt, LLC
Photo by Janelle Goss Photography
setting, particularly at sunset. Nearby is a large fire pit, combined with tasteful fairy lights, provides an ideal location for cocktail hour.
The barn has a dedicated staff team which will support you during the planning process and throughout your ceremony weekend.
I will “be by your side from your first meeting up until your big day,” Ward said.
Up to seven staff members will be present during the wedding weekend to assist with anything celebrants may need.
“Many couples, and especially brides, have their own unique vision for what they want their ceremony to look like… so we mostly leave the design choices up to them,” Ward said, noting that they keep the standard decorations in the barn minimal.
Ward offers a list of preferred caterers, but other vendors are left up to the couple; however, Ward highly recommends local Amish vendors, known for their skill in various traditional crafts, for flower arrangements and other decorations. Much of the furniture at the barn was hand-crafted by local Amish vendors.
The Barn of Nottingham offers several packages depending on need. The weekend package, priced at $12,500 in peak season (April-October) and $10,500 the remainder of the year, is the most comprehensive package, including full Thursday to Sunday access to the facilities. This includes the main barn and grounds as well as the farmhouse. The Barn also offers daily rentals (10 a.m. to 10 p.m.) for $5,500 on Fridays, $7,500 on Saturdays, and $4,500 on Sundays, with farmhouse access for an additional $300 per night.
While weddings are the most frequent reason for booking the barn, other events are also welcome, such as birthday parties, banquets, fundraisers and more. Whatever the occasion, Ward and her team will go above and beyond to ensure your event goes off without a hitch.
More information can be found on the barn’s website at barnofnottingham.com or by calling 484-832-9030..
Chester County,PA
Photo by Heather Lynne Photography
DUDE
WHERE’S MY CAR?
Vintage limousine service has you arriving in style
Story by Cecelia Shilling
Katherine and Maverick Abulone’s June wedding at Kent Island Resort, provided by Katherine’s mother, Shannon Mueck.
When Jack Higginbotham decided to start a side business with his son Edward Higginbotham, Ed remembered a theory his dad always discussed about making money when he was growing up.
“He’s always had this theory called ‘the arms of the octopus’,” Ed said. “[It’s] a bunch of little small money-making things on the side, and if they relate to his interests, it’s a bonus.”
What are the Higginbothams interested in more than anything else? Cars.
Describing himself as a third-generation “car guy,” Jack remembers being interested in cars all his life and instilling that love in his son. Both licensed racecar drivers, Ed took an internship with NASCAR in Florida while his dad remained in Centreville running their soonto-be shared business, Concours Vintage Limousines.
Concours Vintage Limos serves weddings on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and the surrounding area, providing transportation and photo-ops with their state-of-the-art 1961 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud II.
“One of the reasons that I wanted to do weddings is, first of all, they are just the happiest day,” Jack said. “It’s a beautiful day, and we’re there to kind of put the icing on the cake, metaphorically.”
Concours Vintage Limousines was founded in 2013 after the pair took a road trip to an Astoria warehouse to check out the Silver Cloud. After combing the internet and researching the best cars to photograph, Jack thought the ‘61 Rolls-Royce might be a kind of “fairy tale” car to have at a wedding.
“Driving a vintage car for the first time through Astoria in Brooklyn is kind of terrifying,” Jack said. “We were outside of LaGuardia Airport, and we were at a light, and car after car after car came out of LaGuardia, and people were pointing at us and giving us thumbs up and waving, and I knew I had the right car for the business.“
The Higginbotham’s love for cars started long before their 2013 purchase, with Jack’s father, John, returning home from WWII and becoming one of the first racecar drivers as the sport was introduced in the United States.
“My dad raced in the ’50s and had some very cool cars,” he said. “I grew up around his enthusiasm and a lot of neat machinery. I caught the bug at a very early age.”
Victorian St yled Venue with lush landscape and private gardens in the heartofEaston, Mar yland.
Customwedding
Photo provided by Edward Higginbotham.
by JennQuinn Creative
Though Jack himself didn’t race until his late 30s, he said, Ed grew up on the tracks and in pits learning to work on cars. Now, the two take turns “babying” their shared business and the classic cars, including a 1939 Rolls-Royce Wraith Limousine bought a few years after finding the ‘61.
“It’s very different from [driving] a modern car,” Ed said. “You kind of drive with it rather than drive it, if that makes sense. It kind of drives like a boat; low power, kind of wanders, you put it in the direction you want it to go and it goes there.”
The 1961 car is certainly the star of the show, with Jack and Ed noting how pleased and impressed customers are with the stunning white vehicle. The car makes for an especially relaxing trip after a long wedding for some couples, Ed said.
“It’s the best seat in the world,” Ed said. “It’s like your grandfather’s old, worn-in leather couch. It’s just the most comfortable thing. What we hear all the time is like a bride and groom, they’re done with their reception. They’re wicked tired and they
get into the back of the car. They’re like ‘this is the best seat I’ve ever sat in.’”
When Steve Canning rented the White Silver Cloud Rolls-Royce for his son’s wedding this past April, he was thrilled with the service Ed provided and hopes that future generations will continue to appreciate antique vehicles like the classic cars Concours Limos provides.
“Everybody was so impressed by that car and even the public turned their heads when they realized it was for a wedding,” Canning said. “My son and his wife will have the memories forever that their overcast wedding day was made a little brighter by a White Silver Cloud.”
The Higginbothams not only love the cars they drive but also love the happiness they get to bring to people’s special days, Jack said.
“When the bride gets in the car or sees the car for the first time, the joy that is on her face is almost indescribable to me,” he said. “I’ve only seen joy, and it’s just been amazing. It’s just been awesome.”
Photo
Beating the Budget
How wedding professionals deliver their best work when couples have tight budgets.
Britt Fraker
Elegant Exposures by Britt @elegantexposuresbybritt
Our wedding collections are built with our clients in mind, offering competitive rates and exceptional value. We take time to truly listen, learning each couple’s priorities so we can focus on the moments that matter most. By centering our coverage around their vision, we ensure every image reflects what’s most meaningful to them. Couples receive beautiful, professional work and lasting keepsakes that tell their unique love story—treasures they’ll cherish long after the wedding day.
At Crow Entertainment, we believe every couple deserves an incredible celebration, regardless of budget. With over 25 years in the wedding industry, we know how to focus on what matters most to you while keeping costs in check. We tailor our services, offer creative solutions, and use our experience to work efficiently without cutting corners. Our goal is to bring your vision to life and keep your guests dancing, all while respecting your budget.
Anna Zick
AMZ Artistry @amzartistry_
Everyone should feel incredible on their wedding day—no matter the budget. Your makeup is one of the least expensive parts of your wedding, yet one of the most impactful—it’s your face, what guests see, and what’s captured in every photo. I keep my kit stocked only with my tried-and-true, versatile products, to create flawless, timeless glam without unnecessary costs. And the best part? Your bridal preview is always included—never an extra charge—so you can feel confident long before the big day!
Photo by Elegant Exposures by Britt
Brian Crow
Crow Entertainment @crowentertainment
Photo by Living Radiant Photography
Photo by Kayla Carter Photography
WhereEvery MomentMatters.
Whethercelebrating beneaththe high-vaultedceilings of ourrustic-chic Barn,surroundedbywarmwood andelegant stoneinthe Lodge, baskinginthe charmofour versatilepatio,orexchangingvowsinthe serenity of ourprivate outdoor ceremonyspace,guestsare wrappedinanatmosphereofrefined countr yelegance. Thoughtfuldécor,elevatedcuisine, and gracious service come together to create an unforgettablecelebration that’s both stylishand deeply personal
2026 Trends
Envelope Liners
Want your guests to feel the effort and elevation of your wedding in the invitations? Go with envelope liners. You can use a pattern that matches your color and theme, get a handdrawn image of your venue, or even as simple as another color, any of these make your invitations feel even more elegant and composed.
Sentimental Dresses
You might not be interested in wearing your parents wedding clothes, but bringing new life to your mom’s wedding dress as a rehearsal dinner dress or reception dress is a great way to use that “something old.”
Handwritten Thank you notes/
Another way to let your guests know that you are thinking of them is to write handwritten notes to be placed at each placesetting or as part of the seating chart. Thanking each guest for their love, support and role in your love story will remind them of what they mean to you, even if you dont get the chance to chat on the wedding day.
by
What does AI say about planning a bachelor or bachelorette party in the Chesapeake Bay region?
Story by Eli Wohlenhaus (and some AI programs)
Outside of Chesapeake Bay Wedding magazine, I juggle a lot here. One of the more interesting aspects of what I do, however, is research and test ways our company can integrate artificial intelligence into our newsrooms in an ethical way. I won’t go too deep explaining how complex it can be, but I thought it would be fun to see what different programs would answer when given a prompt about bachelor and bachelorette parties. I wonder if you will notice the same thing I did.
Prompt: In fewer than 150 words, could you please plan a bachelor party for a group of 4-8 in the Chesapeake Bay region of Maryland?
Response by Gemini
Plan a weekend getaway in Annapolis, Maryland. Book a waterfront house or a few hotel rooms. Start Friday evening with dinner and drinks at a local pub. On Saturday, charter a fishing boat for a half-day of fishing on the Chesapeake Bay. Afterward, head to a brewery for a tasting and lunch. Later, explore historic downtown Annapolis, grab dinner, and enjoy the nightlife. Sunday can be a relaxed brunch before everyone departs. This plan balances outdoor activities, good food and drink and a fun nightlife, making it suitable for a range of interests.
Response by ChatGPT
Kick off with a morning fishing charter out of Kent Island for rockfish and blue crabs, followed by a dockside lunch with fresh seafood and local craft beer. In the afternoon, rent kayaks or a pontoon to explore secluded coves, or hit a nearby golf course for nine holes. Check into a waterfront Airbnb or inn in St. Michaels or Annapolis. Enjoy a private oyster-shucking and bourbon tasting before a dinner of Chesapeake classics like crab cakes and oysters Rockefeller. End the night with live music at a waterfront bar or a fire pit by the bay.
Photo
Darryl Smith
Response by Claude
Response by Perplexity
Here’s bachelor party for Chesapeake
Here’s a solid bachelor party plan for the Chesapeake Bay area:
Plan a Chesapeake Bay bachelor party packed with fun and local flavor.
Day 1: Start with a chartered fishing trip or crab boat excursion from Annapolis — book a half-day charter that includes beer and lunch. Afternoon at Historic Inns of Annapolis for drinks and exploring the Naval Academy area. Evening dinner at The Boatyard Bar & Grill with waterfront views.
1: chartered at Historic Annapolis for waterfront views.
2: Morning kayaking followed brewery tour — Craft or Seas great options. include
Day 2: Morning kayaking or paddleboarding in the bay, followed by a brewery tour — Union Craft Brewing or Heavy Seas Beer are great options. Afternoon activities could include axe throwing at Bad Axe Throwing in Baltimore or topgolf.
Evening/Night: Hit Federal Hill or Fells Point in Baltimore for bar hopping — start at The Wharf Rat, then Pickles Pub for a more casual vibe.
Accommodation: Consider renting a waterfront house on VRBO or staying at Graduate Annapolis for easy access to nightlife.
Budget: Expect $200-400 per person depending on charter boat choice and accommodation level.
Bad in Hit Baltimore for bar hopping — start at The Wharf Rat, Pickles a staying at Graduate level.
by with and local with Charter Annapolis fun group For more try throwing or ski rentals near waterfront.
Start with adventure: Charter a private tiki boat or sailing cruise from Annapolis for BYOB fun on the water, or book a group fishing trip. For more action, try axe throwing or jet ski rentals near the waterfront.
classic Maryland: on at renowned like or a dock The Crab drinks and
Explore classic Maryland: Feast on steamed crabs at a renowned crab shack like Cantler’s or Dock Street, or chill at a waterfront dock bar such as Libbey’s Coastal Kitchen or The Point Crab House for drinks and bay views.
Bar-hop Main especially Dock Street, for live DJs and late-night fun. high-energy
Nightlife: Bar-hop along Annapolis’s Main Street, especially Dock Street, for live DJs and late-night fun. Alternatively, visit Ocean City for high-energy clubs and boardwalk vibes.
Add
choose,
Customize: Add golf, a brewery tour, or history at the Naval Academy to round out the trip. Whatever you choose, book in advance for popular summer weekends.
From intimate “I dos” to grand celebrations, Simply Social Event Co. brings your vision to life with thoughtfully
Prompt: In fewer than 150 words, could you please plan a bachelorette party for a group of 4-8 in the Chesapeake Bay region of Maryland?
Response by Gemini
Plan a relaxing and celebratory weekend in Annapolis or St. Michaels. Book a waterfront house for a home base.
Friday evening: Arrive and settle in with a casual dinner at a waterfront restaurant with outdoor seating.
Saturday: Enjoy a morning of pampering at a local spa. In the afternoon, head to a nearby winery or brewery for a tasting, or consider a sunset cruise on the Chesapeake Bay for stunning views. In the evening, have a nice dinner out and then explore the town’s nightlife.
Sunday: Sleep in, enjoy a leisurely brunch, and then head home, refreshed and ready for the wedding. This plan offers a mix of relaxation, scenic beauty, and celebratory fun for the whole group.
Response by Claude
Here’s a fun bachelorette party plan for the Chesapeake Bay area:
Day 1: Start with a wine cruise or sunset sail from Annapolis — many charters offer champagne packages. Afternoon spa session at Westin Annapolis or a group massage at a local spa. Evening at The Graduate Annapolis rooftop for cocktails with harbor views.
Day 2: Morning yoga on the water or a scenic bay cruise. Afternoon wine tasting in nearby countryside — Boordy Vineyards or Black Ankle Vineyards offer group experiences.
Evening: Dinner at Iron Rooster for upscale comfort food, then bar hopping in downtown Annapolis — start at Pusser’s Caribbean Grille, then hit West Street for dancing at Stan & Joe’s Saloon.
Alternative: Rent a waterfront Airbnb on the Eastern Shore for a more intimate weekend with private chef dinner.
Activities: Consider paddleboard yoga, pottery painting, or a cooking class.
Budget: $250-450 per person including accommodation and activities.
Response by ChatGPT
Start with a private brunch cruise from Annapolis, mimosas in hand while taking in bay views. Spend the afternoon at a local spa or winery such as Great Frogs for tastings and charcuterie. Check into a chic waterfront Airbnb in St. Michaels or Kent Island, where you can relax by the water. Enjoy a sunset sail, then head to a farm-to-table restaurant for fresh seafood and seasonal dishes. End the night with dancing at a lively Annapolis bar or a cozy bonfire with champagne back at your stay.
Response by Perplexity
Celebrate a Chesapeake Bay bachelorette party with a perfect blend of relaxation, fun, and local flair.
Day on the Bay: Start with a private chartered boat cruise (tiki or sailboat) for your group out of Annapolis or Kent Island — bring snacks, bubbly and music.
Pampering: Book a group spa session or yoga class at a resort spa like The Inn at Chesapeake Bay Beach Club.
Eat & Sip: Savor steamed crabs at Cantler’s or enjoy brunch and bay views at Libbey’s Coastal Kitchen. Add a wine tasting at a nearby vineyard or a casual waterfront brewery stop, like Cult Classic Brewing.
Nightlife: Head to Annapolis’s Main Street for chic cocktail bars, rooftop lounges or live music. For extra fun, organize a pedal party bike tour through the historic district.
Customize: Plan sunset photos on the beach or a keepsake craft session at an art studio. Book early for weekend dates.
I found it fascinating while doing this how alike a lot of these programs’ responses were. It’s also hard to argue with the reality that life and activities in this area rely on the Chesapeake Bay. I did find these answers to be too narrow of a focus, however. That could have been fixed with further prompting.
If you find yourself needing some brainstorming help, any of these programs would work great, especially because you can tailor your prompt for your group better. For example, your group may want to go to a sporting event, or you may want to go golfing, shopping or try out a new hobby. Adding to the prompt “the bride enjoys reading, singing, basketball and pasta” would help.
HOW THEY MET:
We met at the World Gym in La Plata — Adam was Bailey’s gym crush!
THE PROPOSAL:
Adam proposed to Bailey on Christmas Eve in front of her entire extended family, at her parents home in Pennsylvania on a Christmas tree farm during the white elephant gift exchange!
THE HARDEST PART:
Accepting that things may not go perfectly on the wedding day, but embracing the important things such as soaking in the moment with my spouse and being grateful for having the ability to celebrate our love story!
THE BEST PART:
The best part of the wedding day was having all of our favorite people in one room to celebrate with us!
Outstanding Vendors:
Venue: Running Hare Vineyard
Catering: Bailey’s Catering Old Brenton Inn
Alcohol: Running Hare Vineyard
Dessert: Sweet as Hunny & Bradford’s Market
DJ: Entertainment Excellence
Photography: Candace Nicole
Photography
Videography: Ovr 10 Productions
Hair & Makeup: Kristen Artistry
Dress: Watters
Bridesmaid Dresses: Birdy Grey
Tuxedos: Mens Wearhouse
Florals: Something Borrowed Blooms
Decor: Lucky in Love
Coordinator: Leigh & Co Events
HOW THEY MET:
Ours is a modern love story — proof that romance can start with a simple message. We met on social media, where one comment turned into a conversation, and that conversation turned into hours of laughter, shared dreams, and realizing we were each other’s missing piece. Our first inperson meeting sealed the deal — it felt like we had known each other forever! From a single DM to forever and always, here we are!
THE PROPOSAL:
Our proposal was straight out of a dream. We were in beautiful Jamaica, the ocean sparkling behind us, during what I (Mikeshia) thought was just a regular photo shoot to capture vacation memories. As the photographer directed me to turn around, I found my soon-to-be husband down on one knee, holding the most beautiful ring I had ever seen. In that moment, the world seemed to stand still — the waves crashing, the sun dipping low, and my heart racing faster than ever. Surrounded by paradise, love, and complete surprise, I said “yes” to forever.
THE BEST PART:
Our favorite part of the day wasn’t just one moment — it was the feeling of being surrounded by the people we love most as we joined our lives, children, and families together. It was also saying our vowels and soaking in the feeling that we were starting our journey as one!
THE HARDEST PART:
The hardest part of the day was time management to capture the perfect love story. We had to stay on schedule because immediately after the ceremony and pictures, we were headed out of state to catch a flight for our honeymoon, to the beautiful island of Curaçao.
Outstanding Vendors:
Photography: JustuScapes
Photography LLC
Make Up: Brittany Victoria, Owner of She’s Bad Studios Hair: Sarah Styles
Dress: Bridal by Brittany Suit: Styled by Young
Photography Setting: Mr. & Mrs. David Carter
ORTIZ Jessica & Luis 06.27.25
HOW THEY MET:
Our story began in high school in 2005, where we were just two friends brought together by our shared love of volleyball. Luis would always show up to Jess’ games, cheering her on from the sidelines. There was even a plan to go to the movies together, but life had other plans, and that movie date never happened — at least, not then.
Fast forward to 2020, when Luis reached out to Jess on Facebook. What started as a simple message turned into hours of catching up, and before we knew it, we were making plans to see each other again. This time, we didn’t let the moment slip away.
THE BEST PART:
Our private vows were our favorite moment — a quiet, intimate pause in the midst of an incredibly exciting day.
THE PROPOSAL:
THE HARDEST PART:
The day was so full and busy that it was challenging to spend quality time with and truly enjoy all of our guests.
Luis had been planning the proposal for months, working with both of our families to make it perfect. On Jess’ birthday, her family tried everything to get her out of the house—suggesting a nail salon trip, a lunch outing — anything to give Luis time to set up. But Jess was perfectly happy staying home, enjoying a cozy birthday.
Finally, her dad played his last card: he needed a favor, one that required a trip to the local park. Luis volunteered to drive her, and she didn’t suspect a thing. Once there, Luis told Jess he had a surprise and asked her to close her eyes. Expecting a surprise birthday party, Jess played along.
As Luis led her forward, she finally opened her eyes to see a beautiful tree overlooking a lake, decorated with a sign that read Marry Me? Rose petals and candles formed a heart at the base of the tree, and standing nearby were both of our families, waiting for the big moment. Luis shared all the reasons he loves Jess, then got down on one knee. Of course, she said yes! It was better than any birthday party she could have imagined.
Outstanding Vendors:
Venue: Bohemia Manor Farm
Photographers:
Primary: Elegant Exposures By Britt
Second: Josh Anderson
Wedding Cake: Cakes by Mimi
Flowers: Twisted Vine Floral Design
Hair/Make-up: AFlores Beauty
DJ/Lighting: DJ Lou
Ensembles: C. stelle music
Officiants/Pre-marital
Counseling: Pastors Jorge and Omaira Diaz
Chesapeake Bay Wedding Directory
Attire
Brooke & June Bridal (410) 739-7050 brookeandjunebridal.com
