There’s something cool about celebrating your wedding at the same spot you went to for your first date. For Erin and Chris, that place was The Bluebird Cocktail Room, a moody, artful bar in the heart of Baltimore. 

Not every “intimate” wedding has to mean eloping or keeping the guest list under ten. Erin and Chris found a different version of intimacy—one that still included 75 guests but centered on meaning, connection, and sharing their favorite place with the people they love most.

Their cocktail bar wedding at The Bluebird in Baltimore was everything they could ever dream of and more!

How It All Started

Like so many modern love stories, Erin and Chris met on Bumble during the early days of the pandemic. Their first few weeks were spent messaging constantly, talking about running routes, favorite Baltimore neighborhoods, and where they wanted to grab a cocktail once the world opened up again.

A few weeks later, Chris was hanging out with friends on a dock in Fells Point when he sent Erin a picture of the view, only for her to realize it was right outside her apartment building! A little peer pressure from his friends prompted him to finally ask if she wanted to come down and meet in person. While he was extremely shy at first and didn’t talk much, his friends did a great job of leaving a good first impression, at least enough for Erin to consider going on an actual date in the near future.

Once restaurants reopened, they finally had a “real” first date at The Bluebird Cocktail Room — the same place that would later host their wedding. Over time, it became their go-to date spot. And a few years later, Chris proposed on those same Fells Point docks where they first met. 

Getting Ready, First Look, and Baltimore Backdrops

The day started with a slow morning getting ready with friends. They met for a first look in Mount Vernon, which gave them time to enjoy their day just the two of them before joining their loved ones.

The Bluebird Cocktail Room is surrounded by some of the best photo spots in Baltimore. So before the ceremony, we explored Mt. Vernon some more, and then headed to the Walters Art Museum for portraits.

The Cocktail Bar Wedding Ceremony and Reception

Their ceremony took place inside the Green Room at Bluebird, officiated by a close friend. With vintage-inspired decor and moody lighting, the space felt cozy and celebratory. Afterward, guests moved into the main cocktail room for drinks, dinner, and dancing.

The night was laid back and fun, exactly what they wanted! Family and friends who had never all been in the same room before (thanks, Covid) finally came together to celebrate in one of Erin and Chris’s favorite places.

After dinner, cake cutting, and heartfelt toasts, Erin slipped into a fringed party dress that was made for dancing. The dance floor was on fire right until the end!

Making a Larger Wedding Feel Intimate

Even with 75 guests, nothing about this day felt rushed or performative. Erin and Chris were excited to celebrate, but they were also intentional about the way they did it. From choosing a venue that meant the world to them, to keeping the timeline relaxed and the energy high, every part of the day felt grounded and true to who they are.

And that’s what made this cocktail bar wedding so special. It was the perfect example that with the right space surrounded by the right people, you can absolutely throw a larger wedding that still feels deeply personal.

Planning Your Own Cocktail Bar Wedding in Baltimore?

If you’re drawn to the idea of a space with character, atmosphere, and incredible drinks, a cocktail bar wedding might be the perfect fit.

Whether you’re dreaming up a ceremony in your favorite speakeasy or looking for a venue that feels a little unconventional (but still beautiful), I’d love to help you plan and photograph a day that reflects who you are. Reach out here and let’s talk about what’s possible!

Vendors: 

Photography: Me, Evergreen Photo

Venue: The Bluebird Baltimore

Florist: Something Borrowed Blooms

Dessert: Plant Baked by Sarah

DJ: DJ Ravi

Hair and Make-up: Olivia Lo Makeup

Jewelry: Forsythe Jewelers