One of my favorite things about being a wedding photographer in the Greater Washington DC area: the multitude of amazing historic venues for weddings and events. I’m a little bit of a history nerd, and was so excited to learn that Abby & Greg had chosen the Historic Waverly Mansion in Marriottsville for their wedding! Simple, but elegant. And the grounds are amazing – a wedding photographer’s paradise. Abby & Greg’s wedding day started like most August days: sunny, hot, and gorgeous. The first look (at a nearby golf course) was absolutely perfect. I love seeing grooms react to their brides in their wedding day finery, and Abby was stunning! The guys looked great in their gray summer-weight suits, and the ladies complemented the purple floral details in gowns in varied shades of plum and gray. Unfortunately a huge rainstorm blew in, practically out of nowhere, with no warning – cutting our portraits short. Thank goodness for backup plans, and an efficient staff! While we rushed inside with the wedding party and family, they quickly relocated the outdoor ceremony inside the reception tent.
Having a Backup Plan
It can be a bit stressful dealing with the unforeseen, such as a sudden, heavy storm, or an ill bridal party member, or missing florists. And it’s not just stressful for the wedding party – photographers get a little worried, too. We just try to not let it show. Situations like these are why it is so important to have open communication with your vendors, and make sure a plan is in place well before the need for one could arise. Most of the time, your planner or site coordinator will already have one, but be sure you ask about it before your wedding day! Things happen, but all your vendors will work together to make the best of a situation, and take as much burden as possible from your shoulders. (Did you know, it’s considered good luck if it rains on your wedding day?) When life hands you lemons, make lemonade!
At the end of the day, the happy couple was united in marital bliss and surrounded by loved ones and friends. It didn’t matter that it was still pouring sheets of rain outside, or that we’d had to squeeze into the tent for the ceremony. There were thousands of smiles, hundreds of kisses, and many happy years ahead. Congratulations to Abby & Greg! May you always be surrounding by the love of family & friends, and may your romance continue to grow!
Abby & Greg’s Historic Waverly Mansion Wedding