There are some love stories that feel cinematic from the beginning—Katie and Joey’s is exactly that. The details of this Wedding at The Conservatory at Blackberry Ridge was surrounded by the vision of keeping it deeply personal and timeless.
With just five and a half months to plan, Katie and her mom dove headfirst into planning their celebration that would reflect not just their love, but the deeply rooted traditions and values. The Conservatory at Blackberry Ridge immediately stole Katie’s heart. The glass hall, with its elegant ironwork and windows, had the perfect quality she couldn’t resist. And when the venue offered a discount in honor of Joey’s military service, they knew it was the one and couldn’t say no!
Their vision? An intimate yet grand affair. Something that felt reverent and God-centered but also overflowing with style, beauty, and joy. Exactly the type of Wedding at The Conservatory at Blackberry Ridge that they wanted, so they brought that dream to life.
Joey and Katie’s Story
Katie and Joey’s love story began in the most modern way—on Instagram. They shared backgrounds in fitness and coaching and that led them to each other. From the moment Katie stepped off the plane in Baltimore and was met with roses and a first kiss from Joey, their connection felt strong and so their relationship began. Let’s fast forward to a sunny spring day at her family’s estate. The day Katie said YES! Joey got down on one knee in front of her parents, and asked Katie to be his wife! This moment was interrupted by their dog Luna, who came up and dropped the ball right next to them. Laughing, Joey threw the ball so Luna can run off and finally give Katie the chance to say YES!
Let’s enjoy some of their personal getting ready photos that really showcases their love and beauty for the day.
Wedding at The Conservatory at Blackberry Ridge
The ceremony took place in the European-style courtyard of The Conservatory at Blackberry Ridge, and honestly, it felt like something out of a dream. Katie has always loved classic, romantic details—and this space delivered. Soft blush and white florals played beautifully with the old-world charm of the venue. Everything felt intentional but still natural, like it had always belonged there.
A golden gazebo sat at the end of the aisle, completely covered in vines and florals that looked like they had been growing there for years. Elegant urns framed the path to the altar, and the real showstopper? A white baby grand piano with garden roses flowing out of it. It was dramatic in the best way—delicate, thoughtful, and totally breathtaking.
Just as guests took their seats and the ceremony was about to begin—the weather added its own magic. There hadn’t been a single drop of rain all month, but right as the music started and the grand doors opened for Katie’s entrance, a light, misty rain began to fall. Thunder rumbled in the distance as “Golden Hour” played, and Joey saw his bride for the first time. It wasn’t just romantic—it felt sacred. Like the rain was a quiet blessing, washing over the moment with peace.
Katie walked down the aisle carrying generations of love with her—literally. She wore a sixpence in her shoe, passed down through her family. Tucked into her dress was a handkerchief from her late Grandma, and her bouquet was pinned with a blue brooch from her grandmother. Every detail was filled with meaning, making her walk toward Joey feel even more emotional.
A moment for the cake
Katie and Joey’s cake was a beautiful nod to vintage style—a tall, three-tier Lambeth design in white almond sour cream, set on an elegant stand and surrounded by a dreamy “cake meadow” of fresh flowers. While the couple only got a small bite, the bridal party later devoured a whole layer in a hotel elevator—a sure sign it was just too good to resist.
The Wedding Reception
After the ceremony, the celebration moved into The Conservatory at Blackberry Ridge’s breathtaking glass-walled atrium—where the party truly began. Katie and Joey wanted the reception to feel vibrant, personal, and joyful, and it did just that. Bold and soft color florals popped against the black ironwork, mixing tall statement arrangements with lush low blooms and candles. The head table stole the show, draped in florals that spilled to the floor for a touch of drama and romance. The look turned heads by everyone, and the vision that Katie had all came together perfectly!
As for the dance floor and the party vibe, Joey curated the perfect soundtrack with a vintage style band. Think smooth jazz, Sinatra vibes, and just the right energy for dancing and mingling.
This wedding day truly was incredible and filled with the most elegant details that brought together a story about these two. Each aspect was perfect in its own way. Every moment was well designed and put together to bring this vision to life. I was speechless of every detail, especially as this wedding was planned in only 5 1/2 months! For this reason, the wedding was truly extra special. And I am so grateful to have been part of this amazing day!
Vendors for The Wedding at The Conservatory at Blackberry Ridge
Here are the incredible vendors who made this day come to life for Katie and Joey. Each vendor put so much heart and love into the wedding experience for the couple. Creating such beautiful and magical pieces and moments for the couple. While there were many, each deserve to be credited for their hard work!
Venue: The Conservatory at Blackberry Ridge
Photographer: Hunter Hennes
Planner: Chelsea Kennedy Weddings
Florist: Old Frond Floral Company
Video: Awaken Films
Hair: Brandi Brancheau
Makeup: Lauren Maher Makeup
Dress: Margaret Ellen Bridal
Cake: Cake Envy
Entertainment: Thomas Maternik- Piret
Invitations: Ledgewood Fine Stationery
Meet Hunter – Your Photographer
Hey there! My name is Hunter and I am a fine-art luxury wedding photographer based out of Atlanta, Georgia. I am excited you are here and am honored to have been photographing weddings for over five years. My approach is based on offering tailored and personable wedding experiences for the couples who want the experience and the images to feel like a timeless heirloom. Now, if you are getting married in 2025 and 2026 and are interested in this experience, you can learn more about the process here.
