Frederick Weddings is published by The Frederick News-Post
351 Ballenger Center Drive Frederick, MD 21703
301-662-1163
FrederickWeddings.com
Geordie Wilson Publisher
Connie Hastings Revenue Director
Brittney Hamilton Advertising Director
Welcome to the newest edition of Frederick Weddings magazine, your pocket guide to all things weddings in Frederick County. Whether you are planning a huge event or a small one, Frederick Weddings will help you find the area's best venues, photographers, florists, caterers, entertainment services, and more to help make your special day a reality.
Are you on the fence about whether you and your significant other should book an engagement session? Find out why are essential before your big day.
Every new wedding season brings a mix of trends we can’t get enough of – and a few we’re ready to retire. Check out what’s in and out for weddings this year.
PLUS, get inspiration from five couples who’ve gotten married in and around Frederick.
We look forward to the upcoming wedding season and wishing all engaged couples a bright, healthy, and prosperous future!
Every week, make sure to check out the Frederick Weddings print directory inside The Frederick News-Post on Saturdays and stay connected to area wedding professionals throughout the year.
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STYLED SHOOT
FEATURING THE NEW
True Standard Distilling:
A SEXY AND FUN RUM BAR WEDDING VENUE IN DOWNTOWN
FREDERICK
This fall, we’re turning up the drama with highflash photography — bold, moody, and effortlessly cool. The bright burst of light captures raw emotion and vintage flair, echoing the timeless energy of early 1900s portraits.
Q&A with Dee Dee Fowler DIRECTOR OF OUTREACH AND OPERATIONS
WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO OPEN A DISTILLERY/EVENT VENUE IN FREDERICK?
True Standard Distilling was founded by Brian and Ashley, whose shared love of travel and discovery shaped their passion for craft spirits. Brian’s rum journey began in Costa Rica during a college internship, where he first developed an interest in the art of distillation. Ashley’s experience teaching in Tanzania introduced her to unique local spirits and the ways communities connect through them.
While living in Hawaii, Brian honed his skills experimenting with homemade stills and roadside sugarcane, deepening his appreciation for the process. After marrying in 2018, Ashley encouraged Brian to take his dream to the next level–this time with a professional twist.
After moving to Frederick and falling in love with the city, they spent three years planning, building, and perfecting their vision. In 2025, True Standard Distilling officially opened its doors,
launching their flagship line, Dangerous Summer Rum.
WHAT IS THE VENUE'S AESTHETIC, AND CAN IT ACCOMMODATE A THEME?
Our venue features a sleek, classy, and clean aesthetic, providing a versatile backdrop that can easily be adapted to complement a variety of event themes.
WHAT IS YOUR MAXIMUM GUEST CAPACITY?
Our tasting room can comfortably seat up to 75 guests. For standing events, we can accommodate additional guests, depending on the layout and type of event.
DOES THE VENUE HAVE SPACE FOR BOTH A CEREMONY AND RECEPTION?
At this time, True Standard Distilling is focused on hosting small indoor wedding receptions or welcome party events. Our back-of-house is fully in production, with barrels aging and pallets of products, so we are not currently set up for full ceremony and reception packages.
STYLED SHOOT VENDORS
PHOTOGRAPHER
Angela Laurienzo Photography
DRESS
TLC Bridal Boutique
SUIT
Jos. A. Bank
FLORISTS
Frederick Floral Bar &
StoryBook Weddings and Events
MAKEUP & HAIR
JKW Beauty
CAKE
Sage Cakery
CATERING
Old Linette Catering Co.
TRANSPORTATION
On the Town Limousines
DIAMONDS
Colonial Jewelers
BEHIND THE SCENES
KDH Media Group
VENDOR LUNCH BY
Laurienzo
Brick Oven Cafe
DO YOU HOST MULTIPLE WEDDINGS/ EVENTS ON THE SAME DAY?
No. Our rentals blocks are for 8 hours.
DO YOU HAVE IN-HOUSE CATERING, OR CAN WE BRING IN OUR OWN?
We do not offer in house catering right now, but do allow catering by our preferred catering vendors.
CAN WE BRING IN OUTSIDE VENDORS?
IF SO, DO YOU HAVE A PREFERRED LIST?
Yes, you can. We do have a preferred vendor list, but we are open to suggestions that are willing to be approved before the event.
DO YOU PROVIDE A BRIDAL SUITE AND GROOM’S ROOM?
We do not have private bridal suites, but we do
have an area for wedding parties to get ready in that includes a ½ bath.
WHY SHOULD COUPLES CHOOSE YOUR VENUE FOR THEIR BIG DAY?
True Standard Distilling is a unique addition to Frederick’s event scene –offering a classy, intimate, and inviting atmosphere, it is the perfect spot for small gatherings and celebrations. Our modern distillery setting provides a memorable backdrop that appeals to guests of all backgrounds. As one of Frederick’s newest venues, we’re excited to bring people together and help you celebrate your special moments in style.
10 North Carroll Street Frederick, Maryland 21701
truestandarddistilling.com
PHOTO BY RICKI HUFF PRODUCTIONS
TRENDS FOR 2026
The average cost of a wedding in Maryland in 2024 was $42,088
Weddings in 2026 are all about personality, color, and experience. Couples are redefining tradition and turning their celebrations into deeply personal works of art — from vibrant palettes and statement fashion to immersive guest experiences that feel unforgettable. Here's a look at the top trends shaping how couples will say “I do”.
BOLD & VIBRANT DESIGN / COLOR PALETTES
Couples are moving away from ultrasoft neutrals in a big way. Expect deeper jewel tones, saturated hues, highcontrast combinations, layered tones across decor/floral/stationery. Colors are being used to add mood and drama.
FASHION WITH PERSONALITY & STATEMENT BRIDAL LOOKS
Brides are embracing individuality in gowns — dramatic details (e.g. oversized bows, puffed/statement sleeves), non-traditional colors (blush tones, champagne, pastel shades), convertible elements (detachable skirts, capes), corsetry, and more texture.
IMMERSIVE & EXPERIENTIAL GUEST EXPERIENCES
Weddings are becoming more than just ceremony and reception. It’s about multi-day celebrations, interactive décor, immersive installations (think dramatic ceiling or overhead design), experiential touches (custom food/drinks, sensory design, etc.). Also, personalization and local/cultural touches are big.
What's in?
Hometown Weddings
Ready-to-Drink Cocktails
Film Photography
Late-Night Takeaway Boxes
Calligraphed Invitations
Statement Fashion — for the Bride and the Groom
Drapery as Decor
Objects as invitations
Statement Escort Card
Seating Displays
What's out?
Random Destination Weddings
Welcome Bags
Rigid Dress Codes
Matching Everything
Boutonnieres
Photo Booths
Overly-Themed Decor
Predictable Timelines
Real WEDDINGS
Get inspired for your big day with ideas and real-life tips from five couples who celebrated their weddings right here in Frederick County.
Amanda
MICHAEL &
THE PROPOSAL
Amanda and Michael met while living in New York City, via Hinge. “We got engaged in upstate New York while visiting Amanda’s family.” The plan was to go to Ice Castles for the proposal, but they ended up being closed due to unseasonably high February temperatures, so Michael proposed at Amanda’s mom’s house, using a star projector to project constellations on the ceiling.
THE WEDDING
One hundred twenty-five guests, along with a seven-person wedding party, helped the couple celebrate their November wedding at Antrim 1844.
“We were living in New York City at the time of planning the wedding. The majority of our family and friends were coming from New York or Virginia. We were looking at venues within the DMV area that could accommodate overnight guests and was easy to get to if you were flying in, or driving from the northeast. We chose Antrim 1844 because it had a unique style and was unlike anywhere we’ve attended a wedding before. The grounds, service, food, and overall ambiance were amazing.”
“We chose November because Fall is our favorite season. We picked deep gem stone colors as our color scheme to really bring out the vibrancy in tones. We asked our guests to wear darker colors too.” Michael’s dad officiated the wedding.
The couple had giant lawn games that the kids loved to play with. They did an after party in the pub where they changed into matching custom sweatpants. The DJs did a great job with keeping the party alive.
Starry Night Bakery did a dessert bar with macaron, mini cupcakes, pie, tarts, etc. that the guests still rave about. “We made kid boxes for the tables that had kids at them, which had mini legos, bubbles, and coloring books to keep them occupied throughout the reception. We made custom “Posy’s Pub” signs to honor our dog who couldn’t be there.”
ADVICE TO OTHER COUPLES PLANNING THEIR WEDDING
“Be open and do your research. We hadn’t heard of Taneytown before starting our wedding venue search. We loved the recommendations from the venue on their preferred vendors, made finding trusted partners easier.”
FIRST DANCE: “Can’t Help Falling in Love”,
by Elvis Presley
“ We chose Antrim 1844 because it had a unique style and was unlike anywhere we’ve attended a wedding before," the couple shared.
VENUE
Antrim 1844
WELCOME EVENT
Flood Zone Brewery
PHOTOGRAPHER
Valerie Michelle
Photography
RENTALS
White Glove Rentals
HAIR & MAKEUP
Heather Rae
Style Studio
FLORALS
Poppy Flowers
DESSERT
Starry Night Bakery
ENTERTAINMENT
Maryland DJ’s
& DAVID kia
THE PROPOSAL
The couple's engagement was a sweet and quiet one. David and Kia had been dating for several years and marriage was definitely a topic in many of their discussions. Blending their families was one of their future goals as a couple. David and his son DJ were visiting Kia and her daughter Laila for the weekend. On this special afternoon, David was helping Kia hang a painting on the wall. While he was on the floor he asked Kia to help him by holding the hammer. When she reached out her hand to grab the hammer, David placed the Jared box in Kia's hand and began speaking on his love for her, their love for each other and their children. David expressed his desire for Kia to become his wife and she happily and proudly accepted his proposal.
THE WEDDING
One hundred fifty guests, along with a 10-person bridal party, helped the couple celebrate their August wedding at Cortland Mansion. The venue was known to the bride as she was familiar with the area and felt it was the perfect choice for her special day.
The couple’s favorite moments of their big day was time with family and David’s son who gave a toast that was not only touching, but memorable for the couple. One of Kia’s highlights was the coordinated dance routine with her brother –it really got the party started!
ADVICE TO COUPLES WHO ARE GETTING MARRIED
"Make sure to select good quality vendors who you feel connected with and that understand what your vision is. They should not only make you feel comfortable, but that your wedding truly matters to them."
FIRST DANCE: “At Last,” by Etta James
“ Our favorite moment of the day was time with family and David's son who gave a touching toast,” the couple shared.
VENUE
Cortland Mansion
PHOTOGRAPHER
RED Dove Photography
MAKEUP
Jeliany's
HAIR
Elevations Beauty Bar
ENTERTAINMENT
Benefactor Events
Hannah & DAKOTAH
THE PROPOSAL
Dakotah and Hannah were high school sweethearts from a small town in Central Pennsylvania. They both were athletes growing up and met volunteering for a middle school basketball tournament. They quickly became friends and started dating shortly thereafter. They dated for ten years before getting engaged in July of 2024.
Their engagement was the most “them” story. Dakotah and Hannah were getting ready to visit friends in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Hannah ran upstairs to grab a few things before they left, and when she came down the stairs, Dakotah was on one knee in the kitchen and asked her to marry him. Of course, she said yes! While some might say it wasn’t romantic, it was true to them, and that made it so special.
THE WEDDING
One hundred fifty guests, along with a 19-person bridal party, helped the couple celebrate their September wedding at Tenth Ward Distilling Co. Hannah and Dakotah loved the industrial vibe of Tenth Ward’s Whiskey Hall. Their ceremony was elegant and lighthearted, including friends as flower girls and the very popular "Beer Boy" in place of the traditional ring bearer.
“Dakotah and I wanted our wedding to be one big party! Weddings are meant to be a celebration of love and the people that know us, know that we are unconventional and hate formalities. My girlfriends handed out Jell-O shots that I had hand made the night before, and shooters. We also asked a friend to be our beer boy and hand out beers. I knew I wanted to change into a second dress during the reception. My photographer encouraged us to have a fun moment together and requested that Dakotah join me. Dakotah helped me change into a second dress in the storage room at Tenth Ward and it was one of my favorite moments of the night.”
While they couldn’t have their fur babies with them on their wedding day, they wanted to incorporate them into the event. Monica, owner of Tenth Ward Distilling helped them create custom cocktails that they named after their sweet Nala and Hazel, "The Hazel Spritz" and "Nala's Twist." “We had cocktail napkins with their photos to match as well.”
The couple opted to skip the traditional guestbook and use ‘After the Tone’ instead. Guests were able to leave them voicemails via an old phone. “It was such a hit and we often listen to the messages as a way to relive the day.”
“ Weddings are meant to be a celebration of love and the people that know us" the bride shared.
VENUE
Tenth Ward
Distilling Co.
PHOTOGRAPHER
Mayberry & Stone
Photography
VIDEOGRAPHER
Film by Sophia
FLORALS
Blossom & Basket
Boutique
CATERER
CarterQue BBQ
CAKE
Sage Cakery
ENTERTAINMENT
Benefactor Events
TRANSPORTATION
On the Town
Limousines
& JAYSON
Makayla
THE PROPOSAL
Makayla and Jayson met in high school. They got engaged two years after graduation over a private romantic dinner.
THE WEDDING
Seventy guests, along with a 12-person bridal party, helped the couple celebrate their August wedding at Ceresville Mansion. “We chose Ceresville Mansion for the beautiful scenery and inclusive vendors.”
The couple chose a very classic theme featuring touches of red, gold, black, and white.
They shared some of their favorite parts of the day were getting ready with their closest friends, the moment they saw each other for the first time, and “of course, the ceremony – it was so emotional and meaningful.”
They loved the reception – dancing, laughing, and celebrating with everyone they care about made it unforgettable. “What really made the day unique was all the personal touches we added, from our vows to the little details in the decor. It was such a joyful and special day from beginning to end.”
Makayla is a stay at home wife and mother and Jayson is armed security for the government. The couple currently reside in Laurel.
FIRST DANCE: “Love on Top” by Beyonce
PHOTOGRAPHY
Nesh Photography
DECOR
The Lemon Decor
ENTERTAINMENT
Great Scott Productions
“ What really made the day unique was all the touchespersonal we added," the bride shared.
& Dana
THOMAS
THE PROPOSAL
We met in college when we were in the same major. We got together about a year after being friends, and have been together since Dec. 2016.
We talked about it throughout our relationship a little, and in summer 2023 we decided we wanted to get married, so I showed my husband the ring I wanted and told him to propose whenever and however he wanted. We went to Disney World with my best friend in October 2023, where I’ve never been, but have always wanted to go, and he surprised me by proposing at Cinderella’s Wishing Well behind the castle. He kept trying to get me to look for a coin in
my bag and I didn’t realize what was happening, so I was like “I don’t have one, I know there’s nothing in there”. He handed me his wallet to give me something to look at other than him, and when I looked up he was on one knee and proposing.
THE WEDDING
Sixty-five guests, along with a 8-person bridal party, helped the couple celebrate their October wedding at Union Mills Public House. They loved the vibes, the really kind staff and owners, and the location of downtown. “Thomas’s best friend was the officiant and she did amazing. She made it serious and funny at the same time."
The overall wedding theme was 'celestial' bringing out blue, purple, and pinks in the decor. Their dog Ahsoka, was the ring bearer/flower puppy. She did great bringing the rings and walking down the aisle. "I made her a cape out of my bridal cape fabric so we matched, and she had a galaxy bow tie to match Thomas’." Instead of real flowers, they got wooden ones that they dyed different colors. "That worked out well though because now I get to keep my bouquet and all the decor without it wilting ever.
ADVICE TO COUPLES WHO ARE GETTING MARRIED
• Friday and Sunday weddings are cheaper than Saturdays.
• If there’s something that’s a deal breaker when you are looking for a vendor, bring it up immediately when talking to them. Every venue we looked at, I started the conversation 'do you allow dogs in your venue?' because it was non-negotiable for us.
FIRST DANCE: “Don't Think Twice” by Hikaru Utada
“ We used wooden flowers for our wedding – that worked out well because now I get to keep my bouquet and all the decor without it wilting ever," the bride shared.
VENUE
Union Mills
Public House
DAY OF PLANNER
Sleeping Bee Designs
PHOTOGRAPHER & VIDEOGRAPHER
Brodie Ledford Studios
FLORIST
Sola Wood Flowers
CAKE
Karen Rodkey Cakes
DRESS
Posh Bridal
HAIR
ThatHairWitch
MAKEUP
Heather Rea Style Studio
ENTERTAINMENT
Benefactor Events
DOG HANDLER
DogiZone
Just 25 miles from Washington, D.C., Loudoun County, Virginia — DC’s Wine Country® — is an exquisite wedding destination offering everything from romantic B&Bs and scenic wineries to rustic barns, historic estates and luxurious resorts. Visit Loudoun provides complimentary assistance to help you find the perfect venue and wedding professionals, making it easy to plan the celebration of your dreams.
Dana Henry, CTA | Social Market Sales & Client Services Manager
Phone: 703-669-2007
Email: Henry@VisitLoudoun.org
VisitLoudoun.org/weddings | #LoveLoudoun
ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS: Why They Are Essential Before Your Wedding
FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF A PROFESSIONAL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
by brodie ledford owner of brodie ledford studios
When you’re planning your wedding, there’s a long list of “must-dos” venues, florals, food, the dress… but can I let you in on a little secret?
Your relationship with your wedding photographer might just be the most important relationships of your entire day. I know that sounds bold, but hear me out.
PRO TIP:
Photography is about more than pictures—it’s about people and the experience. It’s about telling your story in the most honest, beautiful way possible.
As a wedding photographer at Brodie Ledford Studios, my team and I are with you from the quiet, emotional pre-ceremony moments to the sparkler exit. In many cases, we are with you more than anyone else on your wedding day.
That’s exactly why engagement sessions matter so much. They’re more than just a photo shoot. They’re a chance to build trust, get comfortable, have fun, and set the tone for your entire wedding day.
1BUILD TRUST
WITH THE PERSON WHO’LL BE BY YOUR SIDE ALL DAY
On your wedding day, your photographer wears a lot of hats:
• Photographer
• Coordinator
• Hype squad
• Therapist
• Friend
We’re the person you’ll rely on to help keep your day running smoothly and the person capturing the most important memories of your life.
An engagement session gives us the chance to build that connection before the wedding, so when your big day arrives, I already feel like a trusted part of your circle not just a vendor with a camera.
2
Let’s be real – most couples have never had professional photos taken together before.
That’s why I always encourage doing an engagement shoot. It gives you the chance to:
4 GET COMFORTABLE IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA (NO MODELING EXPERIENCE NEEDED)
• Practice posing (in a totally relaxed, no-pressure way)
• Understand how I guide and direct
• Learn how your body moves and photographs best
• Get past any camera jitters The result? When your wedding day arrives, you feel confident and natural in front of the lens. There are no stiff poses or awkward moments.
3
SKIP THE AWKWARDNESS ON THE WEDDING DAY
Nobody wants to meet their photographer for the first time on their wedding day.
That’s what makes engagement sessions so valuable. We’ve already laughed together, figured out how you two naturally interact, and built a rhythm. So on the big day, we hit the ground running. No introductions, no awkward silences—just comfort, connection, and creativity.
YOU’LL ACTUALLY USE THESE PHOTOS (A LOT)
Engagement photos aren’t just a fun overall experience, they’re incredibly practical too.
Couples often use their engagement photos for:
• Save-the-date cards
• Announcements in the newspaper or on social media
• Wedding websites
• Guest books
• Table decor or centerpieces
• Framed prints at the reception
• Gifts for parents or loved ones
• Thank-you cards after the wedding
They’re a beautiful way to share your story with your guests and add a personal touch to your wedding day.
I T MAKES YOUR WEDDING DAY FEEL MORE RELAXED AND ENJOYABLE
Here’s what I’ve found time and time again: Couples who’ve done engagement sessions with me feel calmer and happier on their wedding day. Because we’ve already worked together, there's a real sense of trust. You don’t have to second guess anything. We know how to communicate, I know how to capture your best angles, and you know exactly what to expect.
Instead of stressing, you’ll feel like you’re spending the day with a friend who just happens to have a camera in hand. It feels natural!
Final Thoughts: INVEST IN YOUR EXPERIENCE, NOT JUST YOUR PHOTOS
At Brodie Ledford Studios, I believe that photography is about more than pictures –it’s about people and the experience. It’s about telling your story in the most honest, beautiful way possible – and that starts long before the wedding day.
So if you’re planning your wedding and wondering whether or not you should book an engagement session, here’s my advice: Do it. Not just for the images but for the comfort, confidence, and connection that makes your entire wedding day better!
“
Engagement photos aren’t just a fun overall experience, they’re incredibly practical too and can be used for a lot of things.
PHOTO BY SPENCEPHOTOGRAPHICS
Say yes TO POSSIBILITY
Say “I do” among rolling hills, breathtaking mountain views, or historic city streets. Whether you are looking for an expansive outdoor backdrop or a rustic setting, unique venues coupled with stunning scenery make Frederick County the ideal destination for guests arriving from near and far.
Before you tie the knot, connect with all of the possibilities that Visit Frederick can bring to your special day.
Visit Frederick provides complimentary assistance on the following:
Room block proposals for area hotels
Venue options for rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, and receptions
Visitor Guides and information on local attractions and activities for your guests
