Shana & Alexis' New Years Eve Wedding

On New Years Eve, our friends and neighbors Shana and Alexis tied the knot at the Baltimore Streetcar Museum (BSCM). We were with them on election night when they didn't believe Maryland would pass the equality act. Oh yes we did pass it and got to celebrate seven weeks later on a beautiful afternoon just a mile from Stone Hill. I told them I would help them plan their wedding. A week later they called and said, "Help, we need you or this isn't going to happen." As I've written you all throughout this past year, I've admitted to not understanding God's plan for me. Well, this was clearly one of the biggest blessings of the year. I had so much fun and Eric and I were invited as guests so it was double fun to be in charge of the details and get to square dance joyfully with the happy couple.

The ceremony took place on the historic Carey Street Trolley. We used Crimson & Clover Floral Design, Inc in Roland Park for the flowers, bows and votive candles. The brides wanted a very understated theme and these "pew" bows set just that on the trolley to mark where their family should sit.

Alexis wore a simple boutonniere with winter sprigs and small roses.

Shana's bouquet had matching roses, rosemary and cedar pine as well. It was simply gorgeous.

One of my favorite details of the wedding was their invitation. The graphic designer created a ticket as the invitation. When doing a site inspection at the Baltimore Streetcar Museum, Jerry Kelly agreed to let the ushers borrow the ticket punch for the invite. It was the smallest but most wonderful detail.

Each trolley conductor has a unique punch with different shapes. The spade marked the date as you entered the train.

Alexis and Shauna, the green haired officiant, walk past the fire pit to the front of the train. We found Shauna through my coffee buddy Lindsay at Johnny's. When meeting with S&A to discuss linens we stopped in for coffee. I knew Lindsay had recently gotten married and asked her who officiated her ceremony. She said, "Oh Shauna! She is a punk rock feminist!" Boom, perfect fit with a good name. 

Everyone stood and Shana walked down the aisle after her parents brought her to the train. It was the most cozy and unique sanctuary with forty guests.

When it was time for the rings to be exchanged, their two rings were passed from the back of the train towards the front along each set of seats. One on the left and one on the right. You can just make out the ribbon in the photo below. 

This was such a special way for the entire "congregation" to be involved in the act of witnessing their marriage. Shauna, the officiant, did such an incredible job marking this historic occasion with grace and a relaxed ease. When the brides exchanged their vows the conductor rang the trolley bell. As a group, we travelled on their first journey as Dr. and Mrs. Boscak-Greenstein together down the tracks. It wasn't legal until midnight, but the symbol alone was very significant and we wanted to catch the afternoon light for photos.

I had asked the fellas at the BSCM if they had a "just married" sign for the train. They didn't but surprised me that day with this brand new painted metal sign for the trolley. At the half-way mark during the little ride the ladies got out for a few photos. I was so excited to capture their first glances of this little sign that brought so much joy. I really think it is the little things that make a difference on your wedding day. Thank you BSCM!

We had to "flip" the seats on the trolley to get back to the party. Now the guests that were in the back were the first on the train.

Hot cider and a fire were waiting for the guests when we returned.

The brides and their families got on a second train for photos and took another short ride with Maria Linz, the official photographer.

Inside, the reception was a celebration of all things Maryland. Shana and Alexis wanted to celebrate the state that made it possible for them to be married legally. We feasted on fresh Chesapeake Bay oysters, Baltimore Pit Beef, a roasted pig from This Swine's for You. Steve and Lorainne Austin were pros and couldn't have been more helpful on the day of the event. The smells from the smoky grill tempted all of us during the ceremony. The Smith Island Wedding Cake was made by the pastry chef at Gertrude's. Thanks Doug!

The table setting was casual with burlap linens and kitchen towel napkins. Instead of renting china, the ladies collected a mismatched set of white China from Good Will's all up and down the East Coast. This shabby chic idea worked so well and they can now entertain for 50! 

Open flame is not allowed at the BSCM so Crimson & Clover used the ribbon and river rocks to show off the electric votive candles. I had no idea those votive lights can last for two days straight!

The museum was decked out for the holidays and the orange chairs just fit perfectly with the relaxed theme. It was important that their guests sit with friends that they knew so we set place cards to ensure that. I love nothing better than a good place card and seating arrangement. It's like the most fun puzzle putting this all together.

Lindsay at Flaunt on the Avenue did Shana's hair and arranged to have her makeup done. The snowflake pin was a perfect touch on this cold winter's night. I figure you should stick with people you know and Lindsay did such a great job with Susannah's hair at her wedding that I knew she would be perfect for Shana. 

This fun and fabulous bride wore the perfect pink dress from Garnish Boutique. Mia, at the shop, was having a sale and Shana walked away with this silk gown for twenty dollars! Yes, 20 bucks. The sparkly belt was added later and found on Etsy, again with a great lead from Mia. 

The youngest guest at the wedding drew this fantastic rendition of the bride! 

Music was very important to the couple. We searched high and low for this amazing band called the Vacuu-tone's. They played bluegrass and square dance music all night long. A caller helped lead the dancing and we all learned how to Contra Dance. I got my wish for more square dancing in my life and haven't smiled so hard in weeks.

The BSCM is made up of an all volunteer staff. Jerry Kelly was a true professional and his entire team was so extremely helpful. The pride they all take in this location is unmatched.

The littlest guest and artist was given the bouquet at the end of the night. 

We really could not have imagined a better or more fun day. I don't know that we can fully express how grateful we are for your work -- both leading up to and the day-of. When we were there, each of us was totally in the moment and not worried at all about any details or what we were supposed to be doing. You made it so effortless. On your wedding day, you want to be remembering the look on your dad's face as you start down the aisle -- not whether everyone has water glasses!!!!  --Shana and Alexis

I cannot thank you ladies enough for the honor of planning your wedding. You gave me purpose in this ever challenging and scary job search time. We are so thrilled to have you as neighbors and call you friends! Thank you again to all of the amazing vendors that helped make this day possible. The best part was running into Alexis' sister and brother-in-law the day after the wedding and hearing them say how much fun they had at your wedding. Cheers to equality and a lifetime of happiness.