Briana and Dom’s gorgeous outdoor wedding at Dawn on the Chesapeake was one of our favorite spring weddings last year. Briana’s mother lives just a few houses down from the venue, so we got to experience all of the joys of having an “at-home” wedding without actually trying to build a wedding venue at home. Despite being an absolute SCORCHER of a day, the breeze off the Chesapeake Bay kept everyone cool. You would never know, looking at the photos (especially because Briana looked flawless all day long), that this was a record-breaking 99-degree mid-May spring day.
It’s funny how, in retrospect, we often worry about rain when planning an outdoor wedding; the heat is often an afterthought! Briana and Dom’s wedding was held completely outdoors, from their lakefront ceremony to Al Fresco dining during the reception, and it was worth every bead of sweat it took to get us there!
Outdoor Wedding Ceremony at Dawn on the Chesapeake
Their wedding day started with Briana walking out of their mansion, walking toward Dom on an extra-long runway. Personally, we never mind a long runway. The anticipation BUILDS, and it feels like magic to witness. Briana and Dom immediately locked eyes and held each other’s gaze throughout the ceremony. When they were finished exchanging vows in front of the glistening water on Chesapeake Lake, it was time to celebrate (and everybody knew it!). The two cheered and walked down the aisle arm in arm – married!
A Vibrant Color Palette with Pops of Reds, Pinks, and Magenta
Lately, we have been bringing on the bold when it comes to our couple’s wedding color palettes. Briana and Dom wanted something that felt opulent and fresh, so together we dreamed up a color palette filled with reds, pinks, and every shade of magenta. With the bold shades to the florals paired with their wedding parties in shades of greens, the flowers truly popped and made just the statement we were looking for.
Al Fresco Dining Under the Stars
Finishing off what was a flawless wedding day was their al fresco reception, where they dined in the open air with their closest family and friends. Briana and Dom didn’t want a tent if it could be avoided, and naturally, we were determined to do whatever we could to bring their vision to life. As wedding planners, we always have backup plans for everything (especially outdoor events!), but fortunately, we didn’t need to use them. I couldn’t have imagined Briana and Dom’s wedding any other way.
A Truly Memorable Wedding at Dawn on the Chesapeake
Briana and Dom’s one-of-a-kind wedding at Dawn on the Chesapeake will truly live on in our hearts forever! It was such a joy-filled day. The romantic feel of the Mediterranean-style mansion venue that is Dawn on the Chesapeake made everything feel more intimate and timeless as well. Everything was truly perfect, from their outdoor wedding ceremony with a stunning lakefront view to their garden reception underneath the stars.
For fresh wedding ideas and timeless inspiration, head to our Instagram next, where we always share our latest and greatest. The beauty never has to end.
WEDDING VENDORS AT DAWN ON THE CHESAPEAKE
Wedding Planner: Simply Breathe Events
Photographer: Darling Photography
Wedding Venue: Dawn on the Chesapeake
Ceremony Musicians: Heru Peacock
Florist: Potomac Floral Design Studio
Bridal Attire: Serendipity Bridal and Events
Tuxedo: Harris & Tailor
Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal
Caterer: Personalized Touch Catering
Baker: Charles Street Bakery
Wedding Hair: Lavoure
Makeup: Darien Lois Beauty + Glamour by Troi
Videographer: Paperboys
Invitations: Paperless Post
Rentals: Bailey’s Party Rentals
DJ: DJ Chubb E Swagg
Tiffany Rivera is a DC & NYC Wedding Planner & Event Planner. For more of SBE’s latest weddings, check out this spectacular spring wedding at the Anderson House.