Chesapeake Bay Wedding at Wylder Hotel Tilghman Island

Wedding at Wylder Hotel Tilghman Island

There’s something so special about photographing the wedding of someone you’ve already had the joy of celebrating with before. I first met Colleen when I photographed her sister’s wedding years ago—and back then, Brendan was Colleen’s date. So, being invited back to document their own big day this spring felt like the most full-circle, heartwarming experience.

Colleen and Brendan's Chesapeake Bay wedding at Wylder Hotel Tilghman Island could not have been a more perfect setting for their spring celebration. Nestled on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, this waterfront property brings the kind of peaceful charm that makes a wedding feel like a retreat.

First look on the pier

Colleen made her way to the pier, where Brendan was waiting to see her for the first time. This moment was so sweet and genuine; I loved every moment. After taking each other in, we explored the gorgeous grounds for more couple photos, followed by shots of their super-fun wedding party.

Their ceremony took place right by the water’s edge, with boats bobbing in the distance and guests soaking in the sun and breeze. Colleen’s father officiated the wedding, and it was a relaxed, joyful, and deeply meaningful. The energy between them is warm and easy, and that feeling carried through every part of the day.

One of my favorite parts of the afternoon was the time between the ceremony and reception. Guests sipped cocktails, ate at the raw oyster bar, and played lawn games. The newlyweds basked in that just-married glow and had some alone time with their adorable dog, Lemon. It was the kind of laid-back, beachy celebration that made everyone feel like family.

The party went into the wee hours of the night with speeches that had people laughing and in tears. They danced like nobody was watching and ate loads of smores by a fire.

One of the nicest parts was that my husband and I not only photographed the wedding but we were also guests at the hotel for the night, which was so special. We even got to see them the next morning at breakfast! Being part of this day was more than just photographing a wedding—it felt like coming back to something familiar and being welcomed in all over again. Colleen and Brendan, thank you for trusting me to capture this chapter of your story. Watching your relationship grow from a date at a sister’s wedding to your own "I do" was an absolute joy.

Here’s to a lifetime of sunshine, laughter, and love as easy and genuine as yours.