Chris & James

Occupations: Chris is a nurse practitioner; James is an attorney

Wedding date October 27, 2023

Number of Guests 175

Number of Attendants 9

How You Met Online dating during COVID

The Engagement After a very dramatic spring shower on Chris’ birthday, Chris and James went to their favorite winery (Black Ankle Winery) with some friends to celebrate. We arrived to a very quiet (almost private) vineyard which was fresh from the spring storm. After a birthday cheers, James gave Chris a birthday card, and once Chris looked up—James was down on one knee asking the special question.

Wedding Design Inspiration We wanted to honor our families and heritages. Chris is Greek and Portuguese, and wanted to have elements of fresh herbs, lemon and olive trees, terracotta, and pottery. James’ family has a strong legacy in the Frederick area, and so it was important that we celebrated in the area near our families and friends. James’ grandfather, who passed before our wedding, was known for his signature bow-tie style and so there are a few bow-tie details throughout the wedding. We both enjoy gardening and fell in love with our venue for the vibrant and classic background that Glen Ellen Farm provided. We wanted our wedding to seamlessly integrate into the natural beauty of their scenic flora.

What Was Unique and Special About Your Wedding Day For a late October wedding, the weather was perfectly comfortable in the 70s throughout the entire day and night. The weather, the beauty of the venue’s gardens, and the guests made the perfect wedding day for James and Chris. We literally don’t have a single complaint about that day. It was perfectly perfect.

Favorite Details The arch over us as we said out vows, and the lantern installment behind our sweetheart table were stunning.

Most Unexpected Event On Your Wedding Day We forgot that the videographer was meeting us at our Airbnb as we were getting ready. Chris had just gotten out of the shower and walked through the Airbnb… not video ready. Luckily, we weren’t rolling.

Piece of Advice Take a moment with your partner during the reception to just appreciate each other and all the work you both went through to get to that moment together.

Caterer Rouge Catering Floral Design Thurman and Fig Honeymoon Dublin, Lisbon, Florence, Rome Invitations Zola Location Glen Ellen Farm, Ijamesville Music DJ Premonition with Mixing Maryland Officiant Sarah Bidinger Photographer T. Juliete Photography Videographer Claude Rob TV Transportation Thoroughbred Sedan, Van, & Bus Wedding Outfits Indochino Wedding Planner Social Graces Events