Max & Maureen's Intimate Ceremony at Meridian House
In June Logan and I had the utmost privilege to photograph a true wedding celebration for Max and Maureen, spanning three days in the city they call home, Washington DC. Working with the planning and design geniuses behind Grit & Grace, Max and Mo came up with a timeline that put the focus primarily on family, beginning first with a traditional Jewish ceremony followed by an intimate candlelit dinner at Meridian House.
When planning the day, emphasis was put on how the small guest list wasn’t exclusive of extended family and friends. Rather, it was inclusive of those who have raised them, nurtured them, supported them, and lifted them to where they are now. Their parents, siblings, nieces, Max’s closest friends, and brother-in-law were part of the 17 guests who received the couple’s sole focus and love; a thank you for all that they have done to help them throughout their years individually and together as a couple.
I have to say, I wish that every single wedding could be planned similarly. While I have seen an uptick in the trend of private ceremonies followed by larger parties to properly celebrate—having photographed three in the last year that were planned this way— being able to have the wedding’s events expand into three days allowed for a relaxed vibe, and plenty of naturally occurring moments. There was no rush, no stress; Maureen and Max savored each and every moment exactly as they had wished.
Without a large bridal party, Maureen was able to have a calm morning prepping at home with her mother, twin sister, and the loves of her life, Tag and Otter. While Max did have a few extra guys at his side, he too was able to ease into the day without the stresses that can come from a typical wedding day.
Once at Meridian House, the couple had a First Look and retreated to the library for their Ketubah Signing Ceremony. This was one of the highlights of the entire weekend for me personally. Their rabbi began with Max and Maureen standing with their backs to one another, while their friends and family surrounded them, taking turns sharing special memories, laughs, and what they love about the couple. It was, understandably, very emotional, meaningful, and so very powerful.
As with tradition, the couple then quickly headed to the wedding ceremony. Note to future couples: a First Look doesn’t mean you won’t get an emotional reaction from your partner. There is something poignant about seeing your future spouse walk down the aisle towards you. Max was endearingly overcome, and it made for some of my most favorite photos of all time. I absolutely love photographing Jewish weddings; the Circling Ceremony in particular makes my heart nearly burst out of my chest, and the tears to pour. The symbolism it represents is powerful. I also love that both parents escort the brides/grooms down the aisle.
After the ceremony, a sunset cocktail hour ensued, followed by an exquisitely catered dinner under the Linden trees, which are over 80 years old! Max and Maureen didn’t even bat an eye when it began to pour during dinner. Instead, the vendors quickly sprang into action and brought the table—candles alight and food in place— inside to finish the evening. It was magical in every sense.
Maureen is originally from Nova Scotia, and, as a way to rep that part of her, the chuppah was wrapped in tartan from her home. I love when these personal details are shared with me.
