Annie and Taylor
Annie and Taylor, who call Washington, DC home, exchanged vows in a nearby town on the Chesapeake Bay, where they had grown up crabbing, fishing, and boating. On September 30, 2011, they invited 100 friends and family members to help kick off the wedding celebration with a relaxed rehearsal dinner by the water.
The Location
After falling in love with its natural beauty, the couple selected the Inn at Perry Cabin in the quaint bayside town of St. Michaels, Maryland, for their rehearsal dinner.
The Invitation
Guests received a colorful invite inspired by a watercolor painting of the Inn at Perry Cabin, designed by Cheree Berry.
Cocktail Decor
Burlap-covered tables overlooked the water, offering guests an unobstructed view of the bay.
The Crowd
Friends and family mingled and relaxed while sipping cocktails and nibbling on light bites.
Signature Drinks
Taylor's favorite, Coca-Cola, was served in old-fashioned glass bottles passed in wooden crates. Bayside Breezes -- lime iced tea spiked with bourbon -- were also offered.
Salty Snacks
Old Bay-seasoned potato chips, spiced nuts, and dilled oyster crackers were set out with help from Allison Jackson of Pineapple Productions, who planned the evening fete.
Serve Yourself
Hand-stamped paper bags in which guests could store their salty snacks, rested beside the large glass canisters.
Elemental Seating
Escort cards, calligraphed by Arney Walker were clipped with clothespins to twine wrapped around a huge tree. Vines, greens, and flowers also wound around it for a lush look.
Picture Perfect
Annie and Taylor's mothers spent hours collecting photos of the couple with friends and family members over the years. They strung the pictures from twine suspended between two trees.
Table Decor
Natural materials like burlap runners and wood created an elegant, no-fuss vibe and helped set off the floral arrangements.
The Flowers
Florist Jack Lucky of Jack Lucky Floral Design composed arrangements of ivory and camel garden roses, green hydrangea, and wildflowers. These were placed in rustic pots.
The Menu
The elaborate, Chesapeake inspired menu was displayed on a chalkboard. It outlined the lobster salad that began the dinner, the buffet offerings, and desserts.
The Groom's Cake
Taylor's family home on the Eastern Shore inspired this fun cake by Charm City Cakes. Little details, like the bride and groom's dogs and Washington Capitols jerseys, made it a true conversation piece.
The Dinner
Guests ate at large, rectangular tables adorned with the bay served as a background.
Under the Tent
Though it sprinkled throughout the evening, guests enjoyed dinner and dancing underneath a tent.
A Sweet Treat
Homemade cookies were displayed on glass pedestals.
The Perfect Evening
As the night drew to an end, the clouds cleared, giving guests yet another reason to smile.
Sources
Photography: Patricia Lyons
Location and catering: Inn at Perry Cabin
Event planning: Allison Jackson of Pineapple Productions
Flowers: Jack Lucky Floral Design
Cake: Charm City Cakes
Tent: Sugar Plum Tents
Rentals: Susan Gage Caterers
Music: The Woodshedders
Transportation: Linder and Associates