This Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum wedding was captured by Michelle Whitley in September 2023. Michelle Whitley is a St. Michaels wedding photographer and Maryland wedding photographer available for weddings and portraits throughout the Eastern Shore, Washington DC, and beyond.


































































































Emily & Nick’s Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum Wedding: Waterfront Views & Coastal Charm
Some wedding days just feel special—and Emily & Nick’s September Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum wedding? Absolute magic.
As a Maryland wedding photographer, I’m always chasing great light, real moments, and unique settings. This wedding had all three in spades. We kicked things off at Trinity Cathedral in Easton, Maryland. It’s a charming and historic church with stained glass and old-world vibes. Emily and Nick exchanged vows in an emotional (yet fun) ceremony that set the tone for the rest of the day.
Later, it was off to one of my all-time favorite Eastern Shore venues: the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. It’s hard to beat a wedding reception on the water with sailboats drifting away in the background. The couple went with a tented, cocktail-style reception, which made everything feel relaxed, fun, and guest-friendly. From a photography standpoint, this setup provided me with numerous opportunities to capture candid moments. Guests laughing in lounge areas and dancing barefoot under the tent lights, to name a few.
And let’s talk about that sunset. The sky exploded into pinks, purples, and golds that mirrored the joy radiating from Emily, Nick, and their guests. We snuck away for a few portraits at golden hour, and were even surprised by a beautiful rainbow over the water.
Huge shoutout to Sara Reynolds Events, who nailed every detail. The flow of the evening was seamless, and the design struck the perfect balance between coastal elegance and laid-back celebration.
If you’re planning a Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum wedding, take a page out of Emily & Nick’s playbook. Waterfront views, a golden sunset, and a vibe that feels like you? Reach out to me today and let’s chat about your wedding plans.
Vendor Team
Planning: Sara Reynolds Events
Photographer: Michelle Whitley
Videography: Just Hitched Films
Venue: Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum
Tabletop Rentals: Pretty Little Wedding Co.
Linens: BBJ La Tavola
Tent: Eastern Shore Tents
Catering: Chesapeake Chefs
Spirits: Hair O’ the Dog
Cake: Grauls Market
Florals: Floret & Vine
Ceremony Flowers: Robin’s Nest Easton
Hair & Makeup: Vintage Veils
Bride’s Gown: Anne Barge from Elegance by Roya Old Town
Shoes: Loeffler Randall
Jewelry: Kerry McGauley from Over the Moon
Bridesmaids: Bella Bridesmaids, Amsale, Olive & Piper
Menswear: Indochino
Rings: Adiamor Diamonds
Entertainment: My Deejay
Paper: Cink Art
Signage / Calligraphy: Molly Z Calligraphy
Dog Handler: Furever Always