Alexa and Ryan had such a lovely summer wedding at Celebrations at the Bay in Pasadena, Maryland. The ceremony and reception had so many sweet moments, and it was easy to see the immense amount of gratitude and love expressed by the bride and groom for each other as well as for their guests. I especially felt it in the way they looked at one another, in the groom’s tears as Alexa walked down the aisle, in her expressions to the guests during their sparkler exit, and in her happy tears during their private, final dance which she requested to have while all the guests went outside to prepare for the sparkler exit.

Alexa’s grandmother officiated the ceremony, which was so special! The reception was held in the large white tent, so their ceremony took place in front of the gazebo located on that side of the venue’s property. It’s a lovely spot, with many planted flowers and overlooking the Chesapeake Bay! The Hokie Bird, the mascot of Virginia Tech, even made an appearance for these alumni.

I first met Alexa in 2015 when she was a bridesmaid in Amy and Cody’s wedding which I photographed at the Chesapeake Bay Beach Club. I was beyond excited when Alexa contacted me and asked me to photograph her and Ryan’s wedding! And, Alexa was a lovely bride in her jaw-dropping ballroom wedding gown featuring a crystal-encrusted bodice!

Congratulations, Alexa and Ryan! It was such an honor to be your wedding photographer!

The amazing vendors who made this day possible:

Venue: Celebrations at the Bay

Photographer: Christa Rae Photography

Hair & Makeup Artistry: AMP’D Hair Studio

Bridal Gown Designer: Madison James

Bridal Boutique: Kleinfeld Bridal in NY

Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Azazie

Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Jos. A. Bank

Caterer & Cake: Catering by Uptown

DJ: DJ Paul