Marisa and Derek met on the job, at NIH in Bethesda. After Derek asked a few times, Marisa agreed to meet him and other co-workers for happy hour. From there, love grew. When it was time to celebrate Derek’s 40th birthday, Marisa was eager to surprise him with a visit from his parents and sister. Marisa didn’t know that Derek was on to her, and he had a surprise of his own! The whole family was visiting a winery when Derek’s sister asked Marisa to hold her 8-month-old son for a moment. When Marisa picked him up, she saw that he was wearing a onesie that said, “Marisa, will you be my aunt?” Of course, she said yes!
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We met up with them this spring in Washington, D.C. for an engagement session (see highlights, above). And soon, it was time for their wedding day! Marisa and Derek planned a casual, lovely day at Harwood Farm in Woodbine, Maryland at the end of June, surrounded by family and friends.
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A few hours before the ceremony, rain was pouring down on the farm…
Everyone remained in good spirits, and hoped that the weather would clear in time for guests to arrive.
Scentsational Florals created the stunning flower arrangements.
Finn was a good sport about getting all spruced up. He looked sharp in his bowtie!
As luck would have it, the sun did finally come out!
By the time guests arrived and broke into some bubbly, the ground had dried, and all was well for the start of the ceremony!
Derek’s brother-in-law, Luke, served as the officiant, and helped make it a truly family affair.
Katie & Logan Acoustic Duo made beautiful music together for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception.
The Pantry Catering created this delicious barbecue spread!
Guests took home this homemade barbecue spice blend as a favor.
Peter Kuyatt of Absolute Entertainment provided the tunes to keep guests on their feet all night.
What a beautiful night! Congratulations, Marisa and Derek… here’s to many more years of happiness!
