A Chesapeake Bay Wedding for 60 Guests, Inspired by Sunset on the Shore
When Alexis reminisces about the summer of 2018, she remembers it as a season of change. Fresh out of the University of Central Florida, she was beginning to map out her next steps when fate introduced her to Thad. Thad happened to be in Orlando on a work project, and a few chance encounters quickly blossomed into casual dates any time their schedules aligned. What neither of them expected was how natural it all felt — the ease of conversation, a spark of curiosity, and a growing sense that something deeper was unfolding.
From the beginning, Alexis admired Thad’s confidence, warmth, and positivity — qualities that instantly, and constantly, put her at ease. Thad, in turn, was captivated by Alexis’s authenticity and adventurous spirit. While their lives looked very different on paper, they found themselves aligned in ways that truly mattered: a shared sense of curiosity, a love for meaningful connection, and a willingness to dive into the unknown together. They quickly became best friends.
“It was a weekend-long love letter to the people who had raised, supported, and celebrated the couple throughout their lives.”
That summer came to a close and both of their lives were shifting. Alexis accepted a job in Jacksonville and Thad was preparing to wrap up his Orlando project, but neither could stand to see the other slip away. So, without hesitation, Thad invited Alexis to come for a weekend getaway to his home of Washington, D.C. It was spontaneous, a little daring, and entirely unforgettable; so unforgettable, that Alexis would later pack her bags and move to DC. What started as a short trip soon became the foundation of a seven-year love story — one that has spanned cross-country road trips, global adventures, career milestones, starting their AirBnB, their first home, and a circle of friends who feel like family.
Working with Whitney Bowman Events
In the heart of Washington, D.C., where their love story blossomed, Thad and Alexis built their life together, marking 2023 with the purchase of their first home. But Thad had an even bigger milestone in mind for their future.
On a sun-drenched June morning, under the guise of heading to a friend's birthday brunch at the Wharf, Thad orchestrated what would become a singularly beautiful moment. The couple made an impromptu stop at the iconic Jefferson Memorial, where, against the backdrop of the shimmering Tidal Basin, Thad dropped to one knee. In a scene straight out of a romantic comedy, a group of enthusiastic middle school students became their impromptu audience, erupting in cheers as Alexis said, "Yes!"
But the surprises weren't over. Upon returning home to escape the June heat, Alexis opened their front door to find nearly all of her closest friends and family waiting to celebrate their engagement. After toasting with champagne, the newly engaged couple and their loved ones continued the festivities with an intimate celebration at the picturesque wineries of Northern Virginia.
Sunset on the Shore: Planning a Chesapeake Bay Wedding
For Alexis and Thad, finding the perfect wedding venue wasn't just about stunning aesthetics — it was about discovering a place that embodied their story. The Inn at Perry Cabin in St. Michaels, Maryland (made famous by "Wedding Crashers”) had already captured their hearts during a pre-pandemic getaway, setting an impossibly high standard for every venue they toured.
"We kept coming back to Perry Cabin," the couple recalls. "Nothing else quite measured up."
The historic inn, nestled along the Chesapeake Bay, offered more than just endless, dreamy views — it represented a perfect fusion of their personalities. For Alexis, who grew up along the Gulf of Mexico, the waterfront setting provided a familiar sense of serenity. For Thad, it presented the ideal backdrop for joy and elegance to coexist.
To orchestrate their vision, the couple partnered with Elizabeth Giles Events, whose refined aesthetic and meticulous attention to detail proved instrumental in bringing their "Sunset on the Shore" theme to life. The design married coastal heritage with contemporary elegance: local oysters and classic maritime blues provided a sophisticated foundation, while sunset-inspired florals added vibrant touches that reflected the couple's spirited personalities.
Even April showers couldn't dampen the celebration's glow. Through the seamless collaboration of their expert vendor team — from the venue staff to the florist, DJ, and violinist — Alexis and Thad achieved their dream of exchanging vows outdoors, with the setting sun painting the sky in perfect harmony with their carefully curated color palette.
"Our vendors transformed potential challenges into pure magic," the couple shares. "Knowing they worked together to ensure we could have our waterfront ceremony between rain showers was incredible. They made our vision come to life."
The result was a celebration that transcended the typical wedding playbook — an elegant affair that honored both the Eastern Shore's timeless charm and the couple's modern love story. Every detail, from the maritime-inspired touches to the sunset color scheme, worked in concert to create an atmosphere that was at once sophisticated and joyful, traditional and fresh — a true reflection of Alexis and Thad's journey together.
An Intimate Wedding for 60
On the morning of the wedding, Alexis and Thad were surrounded by sixty of their closest family members and friends. The scale was intentionally intimate, creating space for laughter, connection, and the kind of quiet moments couples can often miss in the whirlwind of a larger event. Alexis carried a bouquet wrapped with her parents’ class rings — a subtle but powerful reminder of the legacy that had shaped her own.
The ceremony was engulfed in sunlight and happy tears, as vows were exchanged against the gentle backdrop of the water. For both Alexis and Thad, it felt like time stood still. Every smile, every touch, every embrace was a reminder of the journey that had led them there.
As the sun set over the bay, the warmth of everyone’s love for the couple began to light up the reception. Tables were set with hand-painted oyster shells bearing each guest’s name — a labor of love that doubled as a keepsake. The ambiance was equal parts romantic and fun. Candlelight flickered across the tables, florals bloomed in bold sunset hues, and crab cakes and Champagne were served in abundance, alongside classic coastal Maryland fare.
Between toasts and dancing, guests remarked on how personal and heartfelt the celebration felt. It was more than simply a wedding; it was a weekend-long love letter to the people who had raised, supported, and celebrated the couple throughout their lives. Every detail carried meaning, from the décor to the traditions they honored to the joy that radiated from the dance floor. There were endless, joyous tears shed throughout the celebrations.
From Safari to Sake: A Globe-Trotting Honeymoon Adventure
For newlyweds Thad and Alexis, their honeymoon was the perfect opportunity to embark on an epic month-long journey across three continents.
"We knew this was one of the few times in life, other than retirement, when you can truly disconnect from work without any guilt," the couple shares.
With Thad masterfully planning the itinerary and Alexis curating their culinary adventures, they crafted an unforgettable expedition that perfectly reflected their shared passion for exploration.
Their journey began on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania, where four days of seaside bliss and snorkeling set the tone for their adventure. The couple then ventured into the Serengeti, witnessing the magnificent Great Wildebeest Migration along the Mara River. Their safari dreams came true as they encountered an impressive array of wildlife, from majestic lions and elephants to the rare sight of a black rhino.
Thailand beckoned next, where they discovered the paradise-like landscapes of Koh Samui and the Ang Thong Islands, even experiencing the legendary Full Moon Party at Koh Phangan. In Chiang Mai, they immersed themselves in Buddhist culture, trekked through stunning terrains, and shared meaningful moments at an elephant sanctuary.
"We were able to see both African and Asian elephants on this trip — definitely a bucket list item checked off!" Alexis exclaims.
The final chapter of their honeymoon unfolded across Japan, where they spent two weeks exploring the country's fascinating contrast of ancient traditions and modern culture. From the electric energy of Tokyo (including a memorable baseball game at the Tokyo Dome) to the serene mountain resort town of Karuizawa, they absorbed as many of Japan's diverse offerings as possible. Their journey continued through the historic streets of Kyoto, the vibrant food scene of Osaka (complete with a playful day at Universal Japan's Mario World), and concluded with a meaningful visit to Hiroshima and Miyajimacho island.
WEDDING TALENT
Location: Inn At Perry Cabin; Planner: Elizabeth Giles Events; Floral Design: Poppy Flowers; Rentals: Pretty Little Wedding Co.; Entertainment: District Remix, Ross Hyatt; Violinist & Guitarist: Christine Kharazian; Wedding Dress: Enaura Bridal; Bridal Salon: Love Couture Bridal; Reception Dress: Anthropologie Weddings; Bridal Shoes: Betsey Johnson; Hair & Makeup: Behind the Veil; Groom’s Attire: Enzo Custom; Groom’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin; Engagement Ring: Verstolo; Photography: Anna Schmidt Photography