From the very beginning, Janet and Jason knew they didn’t want a traditional wedding. What they wanted was a stress-free day, truly about them, versus following someone else’s idea of what a wedding should be.

One of their first adventures as a couple was visiting the zoo, and that has been a recurring theme in their relationship ever since. So when it came time to get married, it only made sense to spend their day doing exactly that—capturing their relationship through all the things they love.

Their Baltimore Zoo wedding was a full-day celebration of love, intention, and everything that makes their story uniquely them.

A Slow Morning at the Pendry Hotel

Janet and Jason started their day with breakfast in bed at the Pendry Hotel. They were cozily wrapped in robes, sipping coffee, and snuggling. Then they got ready separately and shared a first look in their room overlooking the waterfront. This whole morning felt super sweet and intimate!

Wandering Around the Rawlings Conservatory

Our first stop of the day was the Rawlings Conservatory. It was a gorgeous start to their day, with all that filtered sunlight and lush greenery as their backdrop.

The Baltimore Zoo Wedding Ceremony

After visiting the Conservatory, we went to the Zoo for their ceremony. They got married on the steps of the zoo’s Mansion House, framed by the stunning architecture. After exchanging vows and soaking in the moment, they got to spend some time with one of the cute penguins! He was the cutest little witness to their first dance.

If you’re also considering a Baltimore Zoo wedding, they offer special packages for it. You can learn more about the costs and possibilities here!

Reading Letters from Loved Ones

One of the most touching moments of the day was when they found a quiet spot to sit and read letters from family and friends. Even without guests physically present, their people were woven into the celebration in such a meaningful way.

And if you’re wondering how to include family in your elopement, I’ve got you covered! 

Pizza and Private Cake Cutting 

After the official part was over, they walked over to the Underground Pizza for some deep-dish slices. Then we popped back into the Pendry Hotel, where they popped open a bottle of champagne and cut into a tiny cake just for the two.

Sunset and Wine at Fells Point

And as the sun dipped low over the water, we wandered through Fells Point for golden hour portraits and one last toast at Vino Wine Bar. It was a gorgeous finish to such a deeply intentional day!

Planning Your Own Baltimore Elopement

If you’ve been wondering whether a wedding like this could work for you, and if you’ve ever thought, “we don’t want a big thing, but we want something that feels like us”, I hope this gave you permission to dream a little bigger.

You CAN have a full-day elopement in Baltimore. You CAN explore all your favorite spots, eat your favorite food, and create an experience that actually feels like your relationship, not a performance.

If this blog inspired you, then we should probably talk. Whether you’re already planning your Baltimore elopement or just starting to dream it up, I’m here to help you create a day that reflects everything you care about most.

Reach out here, and let’s see if I’m the right person to help you tell your story.

Vendors

Photography & planning: Me, Evergreen Photo

Florals: Flowers and Fancies

Officiant: K E Scarry

Hair and Makeup: JKW Beauty

Jason’s suit: Suitsupply

Janet’s dress: Jenny Yoo

Jason’s ring: Holden

Janet’s rings: Wove