International

Sailboat Elopement in Annapolis, Maryland

Colleen and Christian originally planned a backyard wedding, but with Covid had to change things up. They both love sailing, and so they decided to invite just a few close friends - one of which officiated their wedding - to join them on their boat in Annapolis for the day. I was almost 3 months pregnant at the time, so I wondered how sailing would do mixed with my nausea, but it almost made me feel better. They were immediately the most accommodating and joyful group of people. They had beautiful food, amazing drinks, made sure everyone was comfortable, and truly radiated the joy they felt of being on a boat - it was so contagious. I honestly had one of the best days of my life with Colleen, Christian, and their friends.

We all met at their home, and then drove a short drive to the docks. Colleen and Christian drove to their boat, and as we all waited at the dock with the food, sandals in hand, and flowers (from Flourish Root), we saw them sailing up - all dressed up in their wedding clothes.

After hopping aboard, we made our way out in the water and they found a spot to anchor and set up. With beautiful platters of food, flowers all over the boat, and a beautiful view, their ceremony was ready to start.

Afterwards, there was champagne popping, snacking, signing of their marriage license, and enjoying the perfect weather.

Mairi and Jude | Rainy Backyard Wedding in Chicago

“You two are just… so weird.” Said their priest during the Mass.

Their wedding day felt like a wedding day. It was all the right emotions - excitement, wonder, nerves, and pure happiness.

But boy, was it different.

Bridesmaids making their own bouquets, a (wild) party trolley, Irish dancing, tacos, a seemingly endless bar, pizzas made to order, the funniest faces I’ve ever seen, feet drenched in mud, fireworks.

Mhm.


If you’re looking for a stunning wedding day full to the brim of gorgeous details - but also looking for weird, wild, and quirky? Mairi and Jude got you covered.

Her wedding dress was part of her mother’s. She made the invitations herself. They had about 400 guests in their back yard. It stormed and poured all day. Their bridal portraits were taken after dark, with no rhyme or reason (just muddy feet).

It was the most fun, and absolutely perfect wedding day. All right here.