Weddings on the Water Crafting Unforgettable Memories
Article by A.M. Turner, Photos by Trans4mation
In our own cozy paradise of Annapolis, where maritime traditions run deep and waterfront vistas captivate the soul, you’ll find a unique venture that has been making waves in the world of weddings. “Weddings on the Water” is not just a business; it’s a love story that began with the love of the sea, where Christine and Tom, the founders, embarked on a journey to celebrate love and share that magic with others.
“Tom and I got married on a sailboat 9 years ago,” Christine tells us, “We had planned to get married on the Martha Lewis, a family boat that was a historic skipjack, named after Tom’s great-great grandmother, that was in the process of being restored by the Chesapeake Heritage Conservancy.” It was a family treasure, steeped in history and sentiment. However, fate had other plans. “Six weeks before our wedding, we went to Baltimore where the boat was dry docked, and the shipwright said we might need a plan B.”
In a whirlwind of events, the couple found themselves, searching for a vessel for their wedding. They eventually discovered a boat in New Jersey that could accommodate their vision. They were married on the Delaware River outside Philadelphia, a testament to their determination to create an unforgettable celebration.
Tom explains, “We loved it so much that we wanted to share that experience with other people.” This love for the water, coupled with a profound desire to bring families together, planted the seeds of “Weddings on the Water.” But what makes this venture truly special is how it marries their backgrounds and passions.
“At the time, neither of us were sailors,” Christine says. They took sailing lessons together, falling in love not only with the sport but with the vibrant maritime community of Annapolis. “Both of Tom’s daughters also got married during the pandemic.” Going through the wedding process of their own and with Tom’s daughters led to the launch of their unique wedding venture.
Christine’s background as an attorney and licensed real estate agent with Long & Foster in Eastport brings a unique perspective to the business. Tom acknowledges her positive impact, stating, “She has worked with people on their worst days and now continues to serve them on their best days.”
Christine’s experience in real estate uniquely positions her to know many local accommodations, but also help those who fall in love with Annapolis find their dream home in the area.
“We are a turnkey wedding venue, event planning, officiant, accommodations,” Tom says. “We customize the package, and our venue becomes a family’s haven for the entire celebration,” Christine added. The 4,000 square-foot waterfront house is transformed into a wedding wonderland, complete with docks, a master bedroom suite for the bridal room, and ample space for the wedding party to prepare.
Their venue caters to intimate gatherings of around 40 guests for sit-down dinners and 50 for cocktail receptions. But for larger affairs, they tap into nearby venues while ensuring the same attention to detail and personalization.
Tom emphasizes that it is quality over quantity, “We are not a wedding factory. We are truly focused on helping people make family memories.” Christine echoes this sentiment, highlighting the importance of bringing families together. “We help people utilize the house and the venue to create meaningful experiences.”
Their inclusivity shines through as well. “We welcome all couples,” Tom notes. Their goal is to create a different kind of sentiment around weddings, where love knows no boundaries.
“We created a business to do this, but it’s more an act of passion,” Tom tells us. They take on a limited number of weddings to ensure each one gets the attention and care it deserves. For Christine and Tom, it’s about making a difference in people’s lives and crafting unforgettable memories.
“We want people to hear about us,” Tom says, “and understand what we offer is unique.” As word spreads throughout DC, Baltimore, and the surrounding areas, they hope more couples will be drawn to their distinctive waterfront venue. They envision families returning year after year, not only for weddings but also for anniversaries, reunions, and other monumental events.
In addition to weddings, “Weddings on the Water” offers officiating services, planning, and accommodations for the couple and their family. Tom, a USCG Master and Lay Minister, customizes wedding ceremonies to fit the couple’s customs, traditions, and religious needs, embracing the wonder of the Chesapeake Bay ensuring every event is unforgettable.
With “Weddings on the Water,” Christine and Tom have created more than a wedding venue; they’ve crafted a place where love, family, and the love of the water converge, forging memories that will last a lifetime.
WEDDINGS ON THE WATER
Owners: Christine & Tom Tomlinson
Website: wowannapolis.com
Email: Christine@wowannapolis. com/Tom@wowannapolis.com
Office: 410-204-4515
The Best Waterfronts in the D.C. Metropolitan Area
By Camiryn Stepteau
With the spring and summer months fast approaching, The Washington, D.C. metropolitan area makes the perfect destination to wind down and take in a scenic waterfront view. From The Wharf to Georgetown, the area offers a plethora of dining options, entertainment, and beautiful scenery. Whether you’re looking to enjoy fresh seafood by the water or admire the area’s many iconic monuments, Simply Magazine shares the top waterfronts in the D.C. metropolitan area.
The Wharf Washington, D.C.
Located in the heart of D.C., The Wharf provides new, cutting-edge, and trendy entertainment for those looking to pair fun with a breathtaking water view. Whether you are catching a live show or getting fresh seafood, The Wharf offers plenty of amusement all while overlooking the Potomac River. Things to Do:
• Water Activities: At The Wharf Boathouse, rent a kayak or a paddleboard and ride past iconic monuments while on the Potomac River.
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy live music and entertainment at The Anthem or Pearl Street Warehouse.
• Hang out at the Recreation Pier: Relax and take in the water view on lounge chairs and swings. Eats:
• The Municipal Fish Market: The oldest operating open-air fish market in the U.S. This is a great stop for those who love seafood, with the market offering fresh fish, crab, and seafood.
• Mi Vida: This spot offers food inspired by Mexican street food with a modern twist.
• Del Mar: A two-story Spanish restaurant that overlooks the river.
• Hank’s Oyster Bar: Provides fresh seafood, known for its oysters, crab, and lobster rolls. Sweet Treats:
• Camp Wharf: Make your own smores at The Wharf’s fire pit.
• Praline Bakery: A local bakery that bakes everything from scratch offering everything from croissants to cupcakes
• Kilwin’s Chocolates & Ice Cream: A locally-owned business that handmade fudge, chocolates, ice cream, and more.
Georgetown Waterfront Washington, D.C.
As D.C.’s oldest neighborhood, Georgetown’s waterfront provides visitors with the ideal waterfront view paired with charming cobblestone streets and a vibrant culinary scene.
Things to Do:
• Water Activities: Rent a kayak or paddleboard from the Key Bridge Boathouse.
• Outdoor Activities: The C&O Canal Towpath offers the perfect trails for visitors to bike, walk, or run along the Potomac River.
• Shopping: Browse trendy clothing shops while exploring the neighborhood’s waterfront.
Eats:
• Sequoia: An iconic restaurant that offers great outdoor seating and brunch menu options.
• Farmers Fishers Bakers: A popular spot that features locally sourced plates, perfect for brunch.
• Guapo’s: A tasty Mexican spot that offers a beautiful riverside view. Sweet Treats:
• Georgetown Cupcakes: A cupcake shop widely popular for its decorative designer tasty cupcakes.
• Thomas Sweet: An ice cream shop that offers homemade ice cream with a variety of flavors.
Annapolis Waterfront
Annapolis, Maryland
Home to the U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis has left a lasting impression on many with its historic charm. Its waterfront view offers visitors a unique blend of history and breathtaking aesthetics, making it a great pick for strolls along the water and fun activities.
Things to Do:
• Water Activities: For the best view of the Chesapeake Bay, catch a ride on a sailing cruise.
• Shopping: Stop by the local boutiques and specialty shops, while strolling around the waterfront.
• Tour the U.S. Naval Academy: Visit the U.S. Naval Academy Museum or venture through the yard taking in the historic architecture.
Eats:
• O’Brien’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Tavern: A seafood restaurant that provides live entertainment, focusing on Chesapeake cuisine.
• Osteria 177: An upscale Italian restaurant with a cozy ambiance.
• Boatyard Bar & Grill: An Annapolis staple, best known for its seafood.
Sweet Treats:
• Annapolis Ice Cream Company: Voted “Best Ice Cream” in Annapolis for the past 20 years, this ice cream shop offers local homemade ice cream.
• Kilwins: Best known for its rich fudge and classic ice cream, Kilwins is a great spot for dessert.
Baltimore Harbor
Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore’s Inner Harbor offers the model day getaway for family-friendly fun with its interactive museums, vibrant dining options, and live entertainment.
Things to Do:
• Water Activities: Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or sailboat to explore the Patapsco River.
• Visit the National Aquarium: Admire all the animals and tour the award-winning exhibits.
• Visit the Museums: Explore Port Discovery Children’s Museum’s engaging exhibits or dive deep into African-American history at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum.
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy concerts at Power Plant Live.
• Tour Historic Ships: Go see the USS Constellation and other historic maritime exhibits.
Eats:
• Blackwall Hitch: This seafood two-story restaurant is perfect to enjoy the waterfront view.
• Phillips Seafood: Best known for its fresh crab cakes and seafood, Phillips Seafood allows you to enjoy fresh cuisine while taking in the Patapsco Riverview.
• Rusty Scupper: A seafood staple in Baltimore paired with a great view of the Inner Harbor.
Sweet Treats:
• BMore Licks: A local ice cream shop great for those looking for creative ice cream flavors.
• Maggie Moo’s: A great ice cream shop for those searching for variety, offers mix-in custom creations.
National Harbor Oxon Hill, Maryland
The National Harbor offers a vibrant nightlife scene and high-energy entertainment, making it great for a night out in the town along the Potomac River.
Things to Do:
• Ride the Capital Wheel: For a unique view of the waterfront, take a ride on the 180-feet-tall Ferris wheel.
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy live music, highenergy comedy, and audience interaction at Bobby Mckey’s Dueling Piano Bar.
• Go to MGM National Harbor: An upscale casino, hotel, and entertainment venue, perfect for a night out.
• Visit the Awakening Statue: Embedded in the sand, the statue is strikingly unique.
Places to eat:
• Grace’s Mandarin: Offering Asian-fusion-styled cuisine, this spot provides great food with spectacular views.
• Fiorella Italian Kitchen: A cozy restaurant that serves handmade pizzas and pasta.
• Succotash: Check out this spot for all your traditional Southern favorites.
Where to Travel In Summer: U.S. & International Destinations
By Anijah Franklin
As the days grow warmer and longer, the countdown to summer lessons more and more each day. For some, that means their vacation days will be put in. There are so many places to visit and explore, whether for the rich culture, the tourist attractions, the local food, or all of the above.
Here are a few destinations you can add to your list for summer 2025. Let’s start with places where you may need a Real ID to get to (as of May 7) but not a passport.
Chicago, IL
Chicago comes alive in the summer with music festivals and a variety of food selections. The nationally known Lollapalooza festival brings in thousands of fans, while the Taste of Chicago Festival offers an array of different flavors from restaurants and a culinary journey through the city’s diverse food scene. Take a boat tour on Lake Michigan, relax on North Avenue beach and experience Black culture through the DuSable Museum of African American History and Black owned restaurants like Virtue and Batter & Berries.
• Tourist Life: Bustling and lively.
• Climate: Warm, occasional humidity (70s-90s).
• Transportation: L-train, walkable city.
• Nightlife: Jazz clubs, rooftop bars and concerts.
New Orleans is rich in Black and Southern culture, making it a top destination for summertime.
Essence Festival of Culture, held in July, is a must for music lovers, shoppers, and a chance to hear from celebrity or community speakers. Enjoy Creole cuisine at Dooky Chase’s, explore the French Quarter, visit the Backstreet Cultural Museum and take a swamp tour through the Bayou.
• Tourist Life: Lively, full of history and culture.
• Climate: Hot and humid (80s-90s).
• Transportation: Streetcars, Uber, some walkable areas.
• Nightlife: Bourbon Street, Frenchmen Street live music.
New Orleans, LA - Visit NOLA
Indonesia Bali
Bali is known for affordable luxury, tropical landscapes and Instagram-worthy spots like the Bali Swing. Stay in a private villa, visit Tegenungan Waterfalls, explore the famous temples of Uluwatu and Tanah Lot and relax at Seminyak Beach.
• Tourist Life: Relaxed, budget-friendly, yet upscale.
• Climate: Tropical (80s-90s).
• Transportation: Scooters, taxis, private drivers.
• Nightlife: Jungle bars, beach clubs and fire dance performances.
Martha’s Vineyard, MA
Martha’s Vineyard is the vacation spot for lots of families, including the Obamas and Oprah. Known for its Black history and even roots to the Harlem Renaissance, it’s long been a retreat for affluent Black vacationers. Shearer Cottage, a historic black-owned inn, was in business for over decades. Enjoy seafood at the net result, explore Oak Bluffs, visit Inkwell Beach and take in the charm of the island’s scenic ports and cottages.
• Tourist Life: Quiet, exclusive and culturally rich.
• Climate: Mild (70s-80s).
• Transportation: Biking, rental cars, ferry access.
• Nightlife: Jazz lounges, cozy bars and oceanfront dining.
Here are a few destinations if you’re looking to leave the States and get some stamps on your passport.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Take a trip to the Carribean! San Juan offers rich history, stunning beaches and lively nightlife. You can visit Old San Juan for colorful colonial architecture or take a hike at El Yunque Rainforest, kayak in the bioluminescent bay at Fajardo, or experience riding ATVs in Carolina.
• Tourist Life: Affordable, family-friendly and lively.
• Climate: Tropical (80s-90s).
• Transportation: Uber is best, limited public transportation.
• Nightlife: La Placita, Salsa clubs, beach bars, casinos.
Thailand Phuket and Bangkok
Thailand offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. Phuket is home to stunning beaches like Patong Beach and Nai Harn Beach, while Bangkok street food at Yahwahat (Chinatown), temples such as Wat Arun, and night markets like Chatuchak provide endless exploration opportunities. For a natural escape, visit Surat Thani for boat tours, bungalows on the water and the stunning lagoons of Khao Sok National Park.
• Tourist Life: Bustling, rich in history and nature
• Climate: Warm year-round, humid (70s-90s).
• Transportation: Tuk-tuks, taxis, ferries.
• Nightlife: Floating markets, beach parties, rooftop bars.
Salvador is the heart of Afro-Brazilian culture, while Rio de Janeiro offers breathtaking beaches and carnival vibes. Enjoy capoeira performances, visit Pelourinho (Salvador historic center), relax on Copacabana and Ipanema beaches and take a cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain.
• Tourist Life: Lively, filled with festivals and history.
• Climate: Warm year-round (70s-90s).
• Transportation: Uber, buses, walkable in city centers.
• Nightlife: Samba clubs, beach parties, high-energy festivals.
This coastal city boasts of Afro-Caribbean food, colorful streets and crystal clear beaches. Cartagena’s ATV tours through the countryside, snorkeling excursions at the Rosario Islands and gourmet dining experiences make it a tropical paradise.
• Tourist Life: Walkable, tropical and welcoming.
• Climate: Warm, humid (80s-90s).
• Transportation: Taxis, walking.
• Nightlife: Salsa bars, rooftop lounges.
The New Health Wave, Juicing
Photos by Veronica Fountain
A couple decades ago, juicing was something that only overzealously healthconscious people did. Today, it's much more popular. People are juicing to lose weight, to cleanse and to consume more nutrients. Juicers are sold not only via infomercials, but can easily be found in department stores. Juice bars have popped up not just in hip California neighborhoods, but even in the Midwest.
Like many aspects of nutrition and weight loss, there is not a one-size-fits-all answer to the topic of juicing. Read on to find out if juicing can benefit you and your goals.
What Exactly Is Juicing, Anyway?
Juicing is the process of extracting the juice from fresh fruits and vegetables. A small kitchen appliance known as a juicer is used to extract the juice; these can range in price from $50-$500. Drinking the juice of fruits and vegetables means consuming their water and much of their vitamin and mineral content; however, the pulp, or fiber, which also has many health benefits, is removed. (Note: Some high-powered juicers do retain most of the pulp in the juice, thus resulting in a thicker juice.)
There are a few main types of juicers out on the market today:
''FAST'' JUICERS
This type of juicer is one of the most common varieties on the market. A fast juicer (or centrifugal juicer) grinds your fruits and veggies and then pushes the extracted juice through a strainer by spinning at a very high speed. The pulp is extracted and ejected into a special compartment, usually near the back of the juicer. This type of juicer produces pulpfree juice very quickly, but it also tends to extract less juice than other types of juicers. It also generates more heat than other types, which some experts say could compromise the nutrients in the produce.
"SLOW" JUICERS
This juicer produces juice in two steps, using one or two gears. First, it crushes the fruits and veggies, and then it presses out the juice. These types of juicers take longer to produce juice, and they tend to be more expensive than most centrifugal juicers. However, they are said to extract more nutrients. They yield a thick juice with more pulp, yet still produce some pulp extract in a separate compartment.
''WHOLE FOOD'' JUICERS
These juicers are reminiscient of blenders. Using sharp blades at high speeds, they are able to pulverize whole fruits and veggies into liquid. These do not have a separate pulp compartment.
Fresh juices should not be confused with smoothies, which are usually made in a blender, food processor or highpowered juicer and include the fibrous pulp of the fruit and vegetable ingredients (and can often contain a blend of fruit, vegetables, juice, dairy and other ingredients).
How Juice Stacks Up against Whole Foods
Proponents of juicing like to say that juice is more nutritious than simply consuming fruits and vegetables. But does that argument really hold up? To compare the nutrition of whole fruits and vegetables to juice, it is important to compare apples to apples (no pun intended). For accuracy, this means comparing them based on equal portions of weight (in grams), which is what we've done in the chart below. If using a juicer or blender that retains the pulp, the end result will be similar to the whole fruit.
DMV Chill Cryo Story
The DMV CHILL CRYOTHERAPY WELLNESS SPA has undergone a makeover in the past year. The Wellness Spa, started by husband and wife duo Silky and Verona Sullivan three years ago, has become one of the most well-regarded holistic care centers in the Metropolitan Area.
The success has allowed DMV CHILL to expand their reach across the region, moving from a small suite in Lanham, Maryland, to their own brick and mortar facility in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia.
As DMV CHILL enters an exciting new chapter, CEO Silky Sullivan sees the new location as a meaningful milestone in the journey he and his wife have embarked on together — both as business partners and as a couple.
“With any journey, there are bound to be ups and downs, so we anticipated a slow start,” said Silky, reflecting on the early adjustments to the new location. “We knew we’d have to get out there, meet new people, ramp up our
marketing efforts — all part of the process. But there’s nothing to complain about. When you’re committed to a path, you understand that challenges are part of the deal. It’s all about rolling with the punches and staying focused on the bigger picture.”
Along with their new facility, DMV CHILL is also integrating cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art equipment to meet clients’ Recovery and Wellness needs.
“We’ve recently added a 3D body scanner, which provides nearly 100% accurate measurements of an individual’s body,” Verona explained. “It analyzes body composition in detail — showing exactly how much fat a
Article by Christian Marshall, Photos by Tracey Connor
person has, where it’s distributed, and how much muscle they’ve built. It’s truly state-ofthe-art technology.”
She continued, “We also offer a Sculpt EMSlim machine, which uses electrical muscle stimulation. It not only burns fat but also tones and strengthens muscles simultaneously — so clients can lose fat and build muscle in one session.”
“At the core of our services is Targeted Cryotherapy — our premier and most indemand treatment. This specialized approach is what truly sets DMV CHILL apart. We use it not only for orthopedic recovery, such as reducing inflammation, relieving joint and muscle pain,
and accelerating healing, but also for aesthetic purposes like skin tightening, body contouring, and fat reduction. It’s a versatile, results-driven solution trusted by athletes, beauty clients, and wellness seekers alike.”
As DMV CHILL continues to expand, introducing new services like Brazilian Lymphatic Massage, Wood Therapy, Infrared Sauna, and more, the business remains committed to offering the signature treatments that set it apart from the competition. Most notably, their Pain Management and Recovery division has become a standout, allowing them to treat athletes across a wide range of sports nationwide.
“We like to say we’re the number one Mobile Cryotherapy provider on the East Coast — because no one else is doing what we do,” said Silky. “We’ve traveled all over the country — from Iowa to New York, Florida to Kentucky, Chicago to Atlanta, Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh and beyond — supporting athletes at all types of sporting events. Whether it’s volleyball, basketball, cycling, flag football, or track meets, if athletes are competing and need recovery, we’re there.”
As 2025 progresses, the Sullivans remain focused on elevating DMV CHILL to new heights, strategically leveraging Social Media to increase visibility, engage their audience, and attract a growing customer base.
“With the power of Social Media today, it only makes sense for us to do everything we can to reach the masses,” said Verona. “Launching a YouTube channel or even a podcast is something we’ve been seriously considering — not just to draw more attention to our brand, but to educate people about Cryotherapy and other Wellness topics that can truly make a difference.”
As DMV CHILL continues to evolve the business on the inside and out, Silky still relies on a special motto to promote their brand: “Ask the Best in the Area about Us!”
“Ask the Best in the Area about Us,” says Silky. “Whether it’s the top teams or elite athletes — they know who we are. That speaks volumes about the level of trust and results we deliver, and just how many people we’ve had the privilege to work with.”
