Jess + Marc | Intimate Backyard Wedding | Potomac, MD

September 22, 2025

Jess and Marc were married this past Saturday at Jess’s parent’s home in the most wonderful little backyard wedding. I absolutely loved being a part of this day and am really excited to share highlights on the blog today.

The Couple

Here’s their *slightly embellished* love story – direct from the couple:

“It was a summer Tuesday in 2021. Marc, owner of a veterinary clinic and humble volunteer firefighter, had just carried his 17th golden retriever puppy out of a burning orphanage — while blindfolded.

Jess, meanwhile, had just finished her final solo flight to receive her pilot’s license, and was celebrating next door to the orphanage with 57924 of her closest friends.

Their eyes met through the smoke (and his blindfold) and the throngs of friends.

He offered her a ride in his truck and a lint roller. She offered him a craft cocktail and a (terrible) wink.

The rest is history. We’ve been saving puppies, taking flights, and drinking with friends ever since.”

The Wedding

I met Jess and Marc at Jess’ sister Mollie’s wedding a few years ago. When they reached out to me about shooting their small family-only wedding I was really excited. They didn’t want it to be a whole production for the sake of photos, they just wanted to be in the moment with the people they love most. And that’s exactly what they did. I loved so many things about this day. From their hysterical officiant and the ceremony that was basically a stand up routine – to their heartfelt vows, both public and the ones they shared privately after the ceremony – to the INCREDIBLE first dance – to all of the sweet moments, genuine love and laughter in between. It was an honor to be a part of another special day for a really wonderful family. Here are just some of my favorites.