“You and I will always burn as one,
flames entwining,
lights combining,
to light this little world we have created.”
-a.r. asher
Somewhere past the skyline and the bustle of downtown, past humans scurrying about their busy lives, the street melts into cobblestone. The shiny new architecture morphs into old stone and historic statues. All is still and we are left to wonder what happened to the world we had known? Where has this road taken us? This new place is peaceful and beautiful, this is a place that makes me want to take a seat on a bench and stay a while. What an appropriate place for Ian and Hannah to be married, because this is just how the world feels about them.
Often I would take this time to describe the bride and groom as individuals but, as much as I adored them both individually, the greatest impression they made on me was the way they were together. Theirs was one of the sweetest and most sincere ceremonies that I have ever witnessed, one that nearly had me burst into tears behind my camera. In a library at the Engineer’s Club, across from the grand spiral staircase, in a room dripping with gold and adorned with artwork, Ian presented his vows as Hannah and most of those in the room dabbed away tears. As he folded away his vows, Hannah sniffed and giggled as she said, “I think you cheated.” She proceeded to read her vows that were nearly identical to his, ending in the same, “And after this life ends, I’ll find you in the next.”
Every room in this mansion is as beautiful as the one before and with a couple this stunning and in love, Tessa and myself were in a photographer’s heaven. Hannah was a goddess in a beaded gown with a delicate cape and crystals in here hair (bride or Khaleesi?!) and Ian almost stole the show in his feather bowtie and sleek tan suit. After nearly an hour spent with the couple walking around the beautiful historic Mt. Vernon the sweet sentimentality of the ceremony rolled into a grand celebration. The center of the mansion houses a grand atrium where the dance floor roared and champagne flowed. As the night continued, there were guests (and a groom) covered in temporary tattoos of the bride and groom’s faces. There were lots of oldies, lots of hugs, and just lots and lots of fun.
Ian is a military man and is soon due for deployment and all that I can think of is how sweet and sacrificial their lives are. Hannah mentioned to me at one point during the day that they “just don’t like to be apart.” Thank you, Ian, for your service to our country. And thanks to the both of you for inviting Tessa Marie Images to be part of your day. We had the best time celebrating with you and your wonderful bridal party and family! Lots of love!
-J
*HUGE shoutout to The Engineer’s Club staff- we were blown away by how friendly, professional, and accommodating they all were. Adding this venue to our list of favorites!*
VENDORS:
Second Photographer: Jenessa Seiz
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Engineers Club
VENDORS:
Wedding Dress: Freya Gown by Catherine Deane for BHLDN
Groom & Groomsmen Attire: The Black Tux
Florist: Amelia
Hair: Baltimore Bridal Hair
Makeup: Take A Vow Makeup
Entertainment Services: Capital DeeJay
Catering: The Engineers Club
