Baltimore is the best kind of surprise- perhaps it’s because I’ve watched too many episodes of The Wire, but I was not prepared for the pomp and circumstance, the old world glamour, the sheer beauty of Baltimore. Baltimore-ites, you really don’t advertise the hidden magic of the waterfront! Or maybe I just haven’t been paying attention, because Baltimore genuinely took my breath away.
Meet Julie and Jonathan, the couple of lovebirds embarking on this wedding adventure.
Julie wanted two paintings; the first painting was for their rehearsal dinner in the George Peabody Library. Julie is a great lover of books, and the George Peabody Library is like something out of a Grimm fairytale. It is dark and full of echoes. It is covered in marble and golden rococo filigree. It has gas lamps, alcoves, and heavy old wooden tables. You feel the need to whisper. The scent in the air is the faint dust laced sigh of several thousand old books. It is perfection. See for yourself:
Everyone had a fantastic time, and the details were beautiful. Stephanie Bradshaw was the event planner and she made a greenery backdrop for the head table that just made my painting pop. I loved it! Also Jonathan couldn’t help but gush about his bride at the rehearsal dinner; I have never seen a more grateful, excited, loving groom in my life. It was so sweet!
Here is the completed wedding painting! It was a dream!
The next day, I had a leisurely walk around the waterfront and into downtown Baltimore, and really enjoyed seeing the old buildings and museums. After an easy afternoon, I headed to the Maryland Science Center off of the harbor, and began to paint the reception. Everyone danced the night away, and Stephanie and her crew had made another glorious hand-painted backdrop that was a pleasure to paint. Also, who doesn’t love a first dance under a giant t-rex skeleton?? I loved the vibe, and Jonathan was fist pumping with sheer joy at having Julie in his arms. Such a great night!
Two perfect nights and two fabulous paintings- I would come back to Baltimore any time! Who knew Baltimore could be so romantic??
Thank you to Chrisman Studios for the beautiful photos!