I am pleased to introduce you to Colleen and Michael! So excited for their wedding at the Glen Ellen Farm this Saturday. Learn more about this wonderful couple below!
 
How did the two of you meet? 
My best friend, Shea, is Michael’s cousin and she introduced us shortly after I moved back to the DC area. 
 
Michael, what do you love about Colleen?
I love Colleen because she is the most beautiful person inside and out. Colleen always puts others first. She is always willing to lend an ear to everyone and when I’m having a bad day, seeing her makes me feel at home. 
 
Colleen, what do you love about Michael?
I love that Michael gives 110% to everything he does, whether it’s work, coaching or our relationship. He is selfless and radiates positivity to everyone he meets. He truly is the best person I know. 
 
What is something special about the two of you?
Michael and I grew up three houses away from each other our whole lives. We didn’t know each other until a couple years ago, but our parents still live only three houses away! 
 
What do you like to do as a couple in your free time?
We love to take our two dogs, Tonka and Goose, on hikes. We also love to go to wineries. 
 
What are a few of your favorite things?
A few of our favorite things include red wine (specifically Prisoner) and the Red Fox Inn in Middleburg. 
 
What does your dream wedding look like?
Our dream wedding is outdoors, surrounded by all the people we love and starting our life together in front of all our friends and family as the Celenza’s. 
 
Why did you choose to work with Social Graces?
We chose Social Graces after we stumbled upon pictures of Katie’s own wedding at our venue. I was in love with all of Katie’s unique touches and when I found out she was a wedding planner; I knew I had to become a part of the Social Graces family! 
​

I am pleased to introduce you to Emily and Brian! So excited for their wedding at the Evergreen Museum this Saturday. Learn more about this fun couple below!
 
How did the two of you meet? 
Having just moved to Baltimore in the summer of 2013, Emily talked a coworker into going to a happy hour event hosted by the American Society of Civil Engineers on a Tuesday evening in November. Little did she know, she would make a connection far more lasting than the handing out of business cards that commonly occurs at these events. Emily bought herself a Natty Boh (when in Baltimore, hon), took a couple deep breaths and approached a chatty group of engineers (yes, social engineers do exist). After hearing all about Brian’s rowdy weekend at Virginia Tech, and reliving some of their collegiate glory days, Brian and Emily found themselves talking alone for quite a while longer. When Emily’s coworker asked for a ride home, she decided it was time to head out. She and Brian exchanged some pleasantries and went their separate ways. Their relationship almost ended right then, but Brian wasn’t about to give up on getting to know Emily better. He didn’t have her phone number or her last name, but he did have one thing: determination (and a few key details from their conversation). Knowing you can never be too careful, Emily has strict privacy settings on her various social media accounts, making Brian’s task exceedingly difficult.

Meanwhile, Emily was gossiping to friends at work about the handsome engineer she met, and how they didn’t have a chance to exchange phone numbers. “I guess it wasn’t meant to be,” she told her cubicle neighbor. Friday finally rolled around and Emily received a curious e-mail notification from the ultra-popular dating website… LinkedIn. “Brian has viewed your profile,” it said. After Emily clicked the little blue “connect” button, she and Brian were finally able to connect in person and go on a proper date. 
 
Emily, what do you love about Brian?
I love how thoughtful and selfless Brian is. He always puts others first, and is amazing at taking care of our little family. He has the patience of a saint and is an amazing listener, even when I'm talking in circles, which happens often. Brian is super close with his family, both immediate and extended, and he sets a perfect example of how to be a supportive and loving son/brother/godson/cousin/nephew. For all these reasons (and because he has already mastered the art of the dad joke) I know he'll be an amazing father someday. Brian makes me want to be the best version of myself, because I know he deserves nothing less. 
 
Brian, what do you love about Emily?
I love the dedication that Emily shows in her everyday life at home to myself and our dog, and at work.  She’s very motivated and determined to do her best in everything and it really rubs off on me. I also love how she is a strong woman, who is incredibly friendly and has a great sense of humor. We have so much fun together all the time, whether it’s going out with friends, going to a concert or show, relaxing on the beach, or even just lying next to each other on the sofa doing nothing with our dog.  Her great morals and character are contagious, and it makes me proud to call her my fiancé, if only for another couple of weeks….
 
What is something special about the two of you?
We are both Civil Engineers, which means we understand each other’s work really well, and can talk about our days at the office without explaining much. For college, Emily went to Duke and Brian went to Maryland, so in theory we should be huge rivals (even though Emily maintains that the rivalry was only one-sided, and only in Maryland's head). There are often times where one of us will say something- a joke, pun, etc. and the other will say it at the same time, or be about to say the same thing. We exchange a lot of wide-eyed "I was just going to say that" looks, and we joke often that we're the same person.  
 
What do you like to do as a couple in your free time?
We are both big fans of country music and spend a lot of our free time going to concerts. We also play in a beach volleyball league, like running, taking our dog on adventures, going to sporting events, and going out to eat and drink with friends.  
 
What are a few of your favorite things?
Country music, beer and wine tasting, trying different restaurants around the city, going to the beach, visiting friends around the country, planning trips! 
 
What does your dream wedding look like?
Fun, lively environment with beautiful weather where every guest enjoys themselves, dances all night and spends the next week telling everyone how great of a time they had over the weekend. Family and friends make new friends and old family members catch up with people they haven’t seen in a long time.  
 
Why did you choose to work with Social Graces?
Aside from the venue, Katie was the first vendor we booked! We met almost 2 full years before our wedding at a "Big Fake Wedding" bridal show. After meeting Katie I knew we would definitely work well together, since she was warm, friendly, well-spoken and very organized. After the event, I kept stumbling across articles and blogs that mentioned how essential it is to hire a day-of coordinator. Knowing all the tiny details and logistical challenges that Katie & her team at Social Graces is helping us with, I can absolutely concur. I know without a doubt that we wouldn't be able to pull it off without her!
​

I am pleased to introduce you to Kate and Pat! They are getting married at their Alma Mater St. Mary’s College of Maryland this Saturday. Learn more about this fun couple below!
 
How did the two of you meet? 
We both served as orientation leaders in August of 2009. Despite attending a small school we hadn't crossed paths during the previous school year. We both remarked to friends about thinking the other was cute and wanting to know more. Orientation ended with no real interaction but during the first day of classes we found that we had an 8:00 AM film class together. Not wanting to miss another chance, Kate took the initiative and sat next to Pat. We chatted as much as you do in an 8:00 AM but took advantage of our required film viewings one night each week to get to know each other.
 
Kate, what do you love about Pat?
Pat is incredibly caring. His kindness and warm nature make him a great partner to have by your side. He's perfected the ability to make anything into a pun and that constantly keeps me laughing at his jokes both being funny and eye-roll worthy at the same time. Pat is my best friend and I can't wait to share our life together as husband and wife.
 
Pat, what do you love about Kate?
There are many things that I love about Kate, the first is her thoughtfulness towards other. She is always putting the needs and feelings of others before herself. Kate is also very organized which helps keep me on the right path. But best of all Kate is quick to laugh and a great audience for my terrible jokes.   
 
What is something special about the two of you?
We are "beer" Olympians in the Three-Legged Race. 
 
What do you like to do as a couple in your free time?
We have two dogs, Rusty and Otis, and try to take them on long walks on Sunday mornings. At home we are avid rummy players or really any card games and the loser is obligated to do the dishes. Since our relationship started with movies that tradition has carried over and we enjoy going to matinees on the weekends. We like to go to O's games during the summer. 
 
What are a few of your favorite things?
La Cuachara on Sundays. The beaches in Cape Cod. Pat is an amazing omelette maker so there are lots of relaxing weekend mornings having breakfast. We really enjoy drinking champagne and have a bottle in the fridge at all times to make a normal day into a celebration!
 
What does your dream wedding look like?
Our dream wedding is being surround by family and friends on a beautiful summer day. We are lucky enough be getting married on our college campus, where we met and fell in love. We have made countless memories there during and post college and we are excited to show our families and friends this special place in May. 
 
Why did you choose to work with Social Graces?
Katie has been amazing from the start. During our first meeting her positive and sunny disposition brought an excitement to the prospect of planning our wedding; I knew she would be an excellent resource for any questions we had throughout the process. As we've gotten closer to our wedding date her organizational skills have kicked into high gear which we appreciate! We are thrilled to be working with Social Graces on our wedding!
​

I am pleased to introduce you to Katie and Cole! They are getting married at at the stunning Brittland Manor this Saturday. Learn more about this sweet couple below!

How did the two of you meet? 
We met while we were both attending St. Mary’s College of Maryland.  We were both taking an 8 a.m. Intro to Sociology class and we started studying together; little did Cole know I had a huge crush on him! We started dating soon after and were inseparable.  After graduating college a couple years apart we reconnected and soon realized our feelings for each other had never changed!
 
Katie, what do you love about Cole?
What I love most about Cole is how loyal he is, he is constantly there for friends and family, and whenever I need him regardless of the situation.  Cole loves me even on my bad days and always makes me feel so special even when I am undeserving.
 
Cole, what do you love about Katie?
What I love most about Katie is her compassion and selflessness; she constantly puts others before herself and her wants. If there were more people like her in this world it would be a much better place. She’s an amazing and caring woman that I feel honored to call her mine.
 
What is something special about the two of you?
Our birthdays are two days apart! It makes celebrating our birthdays that much more fun!
 
What do you like to do as a couple in your free time?
On the weekends we love to go on hikes with our dog Light! We recently moved to Okinawa Japan so we love exploring our new home and trying new food!
 
What are a few of your favorite things?
We really enjoy trying new food, especially breakfast foods! We love watching new TV shows; currently we’re anxiously awaiting the new season of Game of Thrones!
 
What does your dream wedding look like?
Our dream wedding would be us surrounded by our close family and friends celebrating our love! We want it to just be a huge party where everyone can enjoy themselves.
 
Why did you choose to work with Social Graces?
We chose to work with Social Graces because instantly Katie made us feel so comfortable it was like talking to an old friend! She is so professional and organized which made me feel so at ease!

I am pleased to introduce you to Alyssa and Ross! They are getting married at Historic London Town and Gardens this Saturday. Learn more about this awesome couple below!

How did the two of you meet? 
We worked together in the same research lab for about 2 years. Obviously, we got together at some point during that time, but there is some disagreement about who made the first move…
 
Alyssa, what do you love about Ross?
Ross is so caring and affectionate, and he is always on my team.
 
Ross, what do you love about Alyssa?
I love that Alyssa loves me for me and that I don’t have to pretend to be anyone else around her.
 
What is something special about the two of you?
We will spend 11 days as “Dr. and Mr.” until Ross graduates from medical school after the wedding!
 
What do you like to do as a couple in your free time?
Walk our dog, cook dinner together, travel when we have the time
 
What are a few of your favorite things?
Happy hour in the spring and summer, when we can sit outside with our dog and enjoy the sunshine
 
What does your dream wedding look like?
Outdoors with lots of lights and candles, and a party all our guests enjoy! We are so looking forward to seeing everyone out on the dance floor!
 
Why did you choose to work with Social Graces?
We knew we would be moving soon after the wedding so it would be an extra busy time and a coordinator would be able to help us with the details. When we talked to Katie, she was so enthusiastic from the start about all our ideas and immediately started giving us suggestions which turned out to be very helpful. It was definitely a good match from the beginning!

I am pleased to introduce you to Andrew and Taylor! They are getting married at Main Street Ballroom this Saturday. Learn more about this fun couple below!

How did the two of you meet? 
On May 1st, 2014 Andrew and I matched on Tinder. (The most “millennial” way to meet anyone these days). I was a junior at Towson University and Andrew was working/living in Ellicott City (my hometown). After texting back and forth for a few days, we met for the first time at Andrew’s apartment to watch an Orioles game with some of his friends. A few days later, we went on our first official date at the Stanford Grill. 
 
Taylor, what do you love about Andrew?
Andrew is different than any guy I’ve ever met. He’s hardworking and dedicated and has always pushed himself to be better, personally and professionally. He’s definitely made me want to be my best self in every aspect of my life. He’s my biggest cheerleader and has been by my side celebrating every accomplishment and milestone along the way. I always know that he’s got my back and will do absolutely anything to make me happy. He’s loyal and honest and is someone I can always rely on.
 
Andrew, what do you love about Taylor?
Taylor is one of the few people in this world who I truly feel completely comfortable around, the one person who allows me to be myself every second, of every day. From the first time we met, everything just felt easy and fun. She pushes me and inspires me every day to better myself and to work even harder to build the life that we both dream of, together. She is goofy and kind and is always up for a new adventure. I love and continue to relish all the experiences that we have shared together, and especially the fact that she allowed me to have PIZZA at our wedding!  
 
What is something special about the two of you?
Andrew and I share a passion for music. This may seem cliché or generic but over the past 4.5 years of being together we’ve gone to over 20 concerts together. We’re not afraid of a mosh pit, crowd surfing, or head banging. From Maryland Death Fest, the Vans Warped Tour, and A Day to Remember, to the Dirty Heads and Pepper- we love music of all kinds. We’ve traveled to different states and even made friends while tailgating before concerts- all brought together by this love for music. It’s something we both love and will continue to enjoy together.
 
What do you like to do as a couple in your free time?
Since we started dating in 2014 we’ve loved exploring different restaurants, bars, and breweries all over Maryland. We’ve definitely expanded our pallets since we’ve started dating. We’ll be moving to Urbana in Frederick County in early 2019 and look forward to exploring all of the new restaurants and breweries that area has to offer.
 
What are a few of your favorite things? Example: type of wine, restaurants etc.
Pure Wine Café in Historic Ellicott City is our favorite restaurant. We’ve been going there since 2014 and have made that our go-to spot for every celebration. Sour beers (especially from Burley Oak) & all of the beers from RAR in Cambridge. Dry, red wines from Old Westminster Winery (where we got engaged)
 
What does your dream wedding look like?
Our dream wedding isn’t exactly a “look” but more of a feeling. We’d love a day full of celebration, surrounded by the friends and family that have been by our side since we started dating. Some delicious food to eat and great music to dance to is also be a must-have since those are some of the most important things we share as a couple.
 
Why did you choose to work with Social Graces?
I had “stalked” Katie on Instagram ever since Andrew & I were engaged in April 2018. I honestly just wanted to be her friend after seeing all of the beautiful pictures and heart-warming messages she shared on her feed. I knew we’d get along right away. I wanted a wedding planner that I would genuinely like and get along with. I figured, the easiest way to have her in my life was to hire her as my wedding planner, so here I am, forcing my way in…

I am pleased to introduce you to Justin and Caitlin! They are getting married at The Accelerator Space in April. Learn more about this fun couple below.
 
How did the two of you meet? 
We actually went to the same high school, but being a few grades apart we didn’t get to really meet one another. It was years after we both graduated when my cousin and a friend of Justin’s had a house party that we were able to finally meet. Although, this was after months of flirting with each other via social media lol.
 
Justin, what do you love about Caitlin?
I love her energy and charisma. She carries herself with incredible confidence in everything she does and naturally lights up any room she's in. I not only love that about her but I envy it too. 

Caitlin, what do you love about Justin?
I love how well he takes care of me, in all aspects. He has this amazing nurturing side to him that most don’t get to see. He’s so supportive when I’m not feeling well physically and mentally and does whatever is needed to nurse me back to health.

What is something special about the two of you?
I think how much we both love children is something really special and tends to get pointed out by friends and family members. This wasn’t something we initially bonded over, but after meeting one another’s nieces and nephews we quickly realized we were on the same page with how much the kids in our lives mean to us.

What do you like to do as a couple in your free time?
We very much love the “great indoors” and tend to spend any free time together eating take-out and binging a new show on Netflix.
 
What are a few of your favorite things? 
Since moving out to the west coast In-n-Out has very quickly become one of our most favorite things. I genuinely don’t know that we could ever live without it again! Another favorite thing of ours would be our cat Moo. We do have two cats, but one is very clearly the favorite (for good reason- he’s the sweetest boy!).

What does your dream wedding look like?
Our dream wedding would involve A LOT of greenery, if we could get married in a forest we would!
 
Why did you choose to work with Social Graces?
A family member recommended Social Graces after working with Katie at their own wedding. We were so worried about who would be in charge of coordinating all that we had planned for our wedding day, and after reaching out to Katie it felt like a weight was lifted off our shoulders. We both have since followed Social Graces on Instagram and are continuously amazed at everything we see.
​

I am pleased to introduce you to Nicole and Eric! They are getting married at Eagle’s Nest Country Club. Learn more about this fun couple below.
 
How did the two of you meet? 
We actually met in middle school! We had a lot of the same friends at Fallston Middle. We lost touch through high school, and then in college we ran into each other again at Sunday in the Country Concert. We didn’t speak again after the first meeting, and then met up with each other at the same concert the following year and the rest is history!
 
Nicole, what do you love about Eric?
I love how much he makes me laugh and his personality all together. He is my best friend. 

Eric, what do you love about Nicole?
I love everything about her.

What is something special about the two of you?
Our 6-year anniversary is on our wedding day! 
​
What do you like to do as a couple in your free time?
Hang out with our family and friends, and play with our pup, Boh!
 
What are a few of your favorite things? 
We love to stay in and have at home date nights. We both love to try new beer and wine. And we love going to white marsh avenue for happy hours! 

What does your dream wedding look like?
Our dream wedding is one with all of our friends and family. A ceremony that is outside with a beautiful backdrop, and a super fun dance filled reception!
 
Why did you choose to work with Social Graces?
A friend of ours hired Katie, and said she was amazing! So, we did it too!

I am pleased to introduce you to Angie and Jonathan! They are getting married at one of my favorite venues, Glen Ellen Farm. Learn more about this sweet couple below.
 
How did the two of you meet? 
We met in high school! We started dating junior year. Our first date was a Middletown football game. We went to get coffee and Jonathan asked me out afterwards on Sept 25, 2007. It’ll be just under 11 years on our wedding day.  
 
Angie, what do you love about Jonathan?
I love Jonathan’s compassion for people, kindness, and supportiveness.
 
Jonathan, what do you love about Angie?
I love how passionate she is, her honesty, and her thoughtfulness.
 
What is something special about the two of you?
That we’re kind of like a Yin and Yang – we respect our differences but also try to learn from each other and grow as a couple. I always try to be as kind as Jonathan, and he strives to be honest with himself, like me. And we’re not just partners, we’re best friends.
 
What do you like to do as a couple in your free time?
Travel! Even if it’s somewhere local. We love taking our dog, Gatsby, on adventures with us. We try to go on a date night every week!
 
What are a few of your favorite things?
Gatsby! Singing together, eating exotic foods, going to Capitals games, exploring our city (Alexandria, VA)
 
What does your dream wedding look like?
We just want to be surrounded by friends and family, and to celebrate the next chapter in our life with them. I would also like the sun to be shining…if that isn’t too much to ask. My favorite wedding theme, and the theme of our wedding is rustic chic – we’ll see if we can pull it off.
 
Why did you choose to work with Social Graces?
It was important for us to be comfortable with our vendors, and who better to coordinate our day than someone we know and respect! From Katie’s blog and Instagram, she seemed like she was just so organized and made for this work. Katie knew the venue, which was important to me. I love working with people who I know have great character.
 
Some advice to anyone willing to listen:
If you’re wondering what the most important thing is, or what saves a marriage/relationship – to me, its communication. Jonathan and I did 5 years long distance. We made it. We talked through all our problems and issues, and where our heads were at when we were apart. And that we loved each other. If you can’t articulate your feelings or needs, or you hesitate to do so…it can strain your relationship, or cause resentment. Jonathan is my favorite person to talk to, and we’ve worked really hard at our open communication.
​

I am so excited to introduce you to Jenna and Franco! We have been working together for over a year to bring their dream wedding to life at the Sagamore Pendry in Fells Point, Baltimore. Y’all this wedding is going to be a showstopper with a list of first class vendors and a bride and groom that I adore, this will be one for the books! Learn more about Jenna and Franco below.
 
 How did the two of you meet? 
We met in high school at Archbishop Spalding. We reconnected a few years later out and about in Annapolis and the rest is history! 
 
Jenna, what do you love about Franco?
Franco is genuinely my favorite person in the world! He has a heart of gold and goes above and beyond for me and everyone in our lives. He is patient, kind, and my very best friend. I am the best version of myself because of him and I know he will make the most amazing father and life partner. He makes me laugh, is the best listener, and my every problem solver. It's just a bonus that he's so handsome! 
 
Franco, what do you love about Jenna?
I love that Jenna is a genuine person who really wants the best for us. She is the person I trust most and she's consistently pushing me to improve myself and make me a better person. I love how caring she is towards me and the feeling I get when I am with her. She's funny, smart, and an amazing woman.
 
What is something special about the two of you?
We love to travel and explore new places together. Every chance we get we take a long weekend, explore a new city, and have the best time just the two of us! 
 
What do you like to do as a couple in your free time?
We spend pretty much all of our free time with family or friends and wouldn't have it any other way! We have big growing families and enjoy being around the people we love most. 
 
What are a few of your favorite things?
Staying in, making dinner, and watching a movie with a glass of wine is our favorite! But when we are feeling more adventurous, we love trying new restaurants, sporting events, concerts, and traveling! 
 
What does your dream wedding look like?
Our dream wedding is a room full of loved ones dancing the night away. Tons of florals, classic elegance and romantic touches will adorn the room but those are just details! We truly want everyone to have a blast and to feel so loved and appreciated for sharing our special day with us. 
 
Why did you choose to work with Social Graces?
The second I met Katie, I knew I was going to hire her! We met for coffee and beyond being so sweet and genuine, she completely understood everything about my wedding vision. I had a lot of ideas but had zero clue how to piece them together and Katie just gets it! People told me wedding planning would be stressful, and that hasn't felt further from the truth! With Social Graces, it has been an absolute dream and a lot of fun! 

Photography || Erika Lynn Photography