About Baltimore
Baltimore is an iconic American city in Maryland, known for its proud history and diverse culture. It offers plenty of attractions, from its famous Inner Harbor to the National Aquarium, as well as plenty of dining and entertainment options. For those looking for a rustic experience, Baltimore has a variety of venues ideal for weddings, from historical country clubs to waterfront manor houses.
People come from all over to experience Baltimore’s unique charm and rich history. While many know of its popular events like the Preakness Stakes or the Maryland Film Festival, it also holds plenty of interesting facts, such as being one of few cities in America with its state song.
The unique combination of old-world charm and modern amenities makes Baltimore an attractive destination for visitors year-round. With its wide range of activities and experiences, it's no wonder this city continues to be a favorite among locals, tourists, and wedding planners.
Rustic Wedding Options in Baltimore
- Photographer
A good photographer is essential to capture all the special moments of your rustic wedding. Look for a photographer who has experience shooting in natural settings and who can create beautiful, timeless images.
- Catering
When choosing a caterer, look for one who can provide a menu that fits with the rustic aesthetic. They should also be able to accommodate any dietary restrictions you may have.
- Decorations
There are many ways to decorate a rustic wedding. You could use natural elements like branches, leaves, and flowers, or go for a more vintage look with lace and burlap.
- Music
A live band or DJ can set the perfect mood for your rustic wedding. Choose music that reflects the relaxed and romantic vibe you're going for.
Rustic Wedding Vendors in Baltimore
- JPB Designs
JPB Designs is a boutique wedding planning company that specializes in creating unique events that are individually tailored to each client. The company was founded by Jenny Bartkus, who has over 100 events under her belt. Jenny is a driven individual who has a passion for detail, organization, and logistics. JPB Designs offers full-service wedding coordination and planning, from conception to execution. They will work with you every step of the way to ensure that your event is a success.
- Tom Martin Photography
Tom Martin Photography is a business that was established in 2018 by Tom Martin. Photography has been a passion of Tom's for as long as he can remember, and he started taking pictures in earnest in high school when he worked on the yearbook. Since then, photography has grown from a hobby to an addiction and profession for Tom. He loves helping people create lasting memories by capturing special moments and the stories behind them.
- Vintage Affairs
Vintage Affairs has everything you need to make sure your wedding or event is memorable and unique. This company offers a wide range of services to help make your special day perfect. From furniture and decor rentals to full-service wedding planning, Vintage Affairs have everything you need to make your wedding unique and memorable. It also offers day-of coordination and various styling packages to suit your specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Rustic Weddings in Baltimore
Rustic weddings can be an excellent fit for those wanting to break from tradition and celebrate in a unique and natural setting. However, some considerations must be taken into account when planning a rustic wedding in Baltimore. Here are some pros and cons to consider before making the decision.
Advantages
- Baltimore offers plenty of locations for rustic outdoor weddings, including quaint farms and fields, beautiful vineyards, and incredible parks.
- Rustic weddings are often more affordable than traditional ceremonies, with venues that are generally less expensive to rent and sometimes free or discounted equipment.
- The city of Baltimore also offers unique aesthetic touches that help create a one-of-a-kind wedding experience, from its urban skyline to its rolling hills and picturesque waterfronts.
Disadvantages
- The unpredictable weather in the area can be a potential challenge when planning a rustic outdoor wedding. Rain showers or strong winds can damper the day’s events.
- Depending on the venue's location, transportation may be difficult and expensive for guests who live out of town or do not have cars.
- Guests may find it difficult to plan formal attire for an outdoor wedding as there aren't typically brick-and-mortar stores with the same selections as traditional venues.
Tips on How to Organize Rustic Weddings in Baltimore
Planning a rustic wedding in Baltimore can be challenging and exciting at the same time. Still, with a few tips and tricks, you can create an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. Here are some great tips to help you organize a rustic wedding in Baltimore that will be memorable for years to come.
- Utilize natural elements – Make use of the natural beauty of the outdoors to decorate your ceremony and reception area. Incorporate earthy elements into your decorations, such as wildflowers, reclaimed wood, burlap accents, and mason jars.
- Incorporate local delicacies – Serving food unique to Baltimore will make your event stand out! Consider offering crab cakes or Berger cookies as part of your menu or having a Maryland-style oyster roast during cocktail hour.
- Add personal touches – No matter what type of rustic wedding you are planning, adding personal touches throughout the day will make it truly special. Consider creating custom signs with important information about the day’s events or giving guests small gifts with local flavors like Old Bay seasoning packets.
- Have fun with entertainment – Traditional music can still be enjoyed at a rustic wedding, but many other options are available that fit more into the theme. Look into hiring a bluegrass band or inviting friends to play acoustic music during cocktail hour for an intimate atmosphere that everyone can enjoy!
Famous Locations in Baltimore
- Fell's Point
Founded in 1763, Fell's Point is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Baltimore. The historic district has been home to some of Baltimore's most famous residents, including Frederick Douglass. You can tour the oldest standing residence in Baltimore City, the Robert Long House, and learn about Fell's Point's rich history at the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park Museum. After you stroll down the Belgian block streets, take a trip to Broadway Market where you'll find exotic foods from all over the world as well as American classics. And once you're finished there, don't forget to raise a glass at The Horse You Came In On Saloon- it's rumored to be Edgar Allan Poe's final destination before his untimely death.
- American Visionary Art Museum
The American Visionary Art Museum is one of a kind. Focusing on self-taught artists, the national museum holds works of art in all mediums by these impressive creators. The outside of the building is just as interesting as what's inside, with its reflective surface and school bus covered in mirrors. Get ready to be wowed, this certainly isn't your average museum experience! The American Visionary Art Museum is always worth a visit, with its frequently changing exhibitions of outsider art and permanent collection of visionary art.
- Federal Hill
Federal Hill is a historic district located on the south side of the Inner Harbor in Baltimore, Maryland. The neighborhood is known for its picturesque views of the Inner Harbor and its cobblestone streets. The American Visionary Art Museum is the highlight of Federal Hill and definitely worth a visit. The museum showcases folk art in a unique and interesting way, housed in a beautiful 19th-century warehouse. AVAM's collection includes everything from outsider art to fine examples of self-taught artists, making it one of the most unique museums in the country. If you're looking for a truly quirky and out-of-the-ordinary experience, Federal Hill is the place to be.