Katie Gankos & Justin Rosenberger
October 28, 2017
Herrington on the Bay // Hannah Bjorndal Photography
Fell in Love with a Terp
Katie, an em yologist, met Justin, a wildlife biologist, during their sophomore year at the University of Maryland. “My first impression was that he was a total goofball,” Katie recalls. “And that still holds true to this day!” Their first date was a very romantic dinner at the campus diner. Six years later, Justin proposed on the beach in Cape Cod.
The Gorgeous Venue
Finding the right setting for their wedding was difficult, Katie says, but once the couple saw Herrington on the Bay, they were sold. “From the gorgeous ceremony location overlooking the bay, to the reception venue overlooking the marina and the delicious food, we knew it was the place for us,” she says. “We also loved the fact that our whole idal party and close family could stay at the Inn at Herrington for the weekend.”
Saying Yes to the Dress Katie didn't think much of the Essence of Australia gown while it was on the rack, but everything changed when the ladies of Wren Bridal put it in her hands. “Once I tried it on, I fell in love,” she says. “It had a beautiful, unique back and the simple tulle skirt was exactly what I wanted.”
Their Best People
Katie and Justin asked their younger siblings to be their maid-of-honor and best man; the rest of the idal party comprised their best friends. As a thank you, the ladies received monogrammed duffel bags and Justin gave a monogrammed cigar box to each of the men.
A Reception to Remember
The couple took their guests down memory lane with a slideshow of their baby photos and major milestones, both before and after they met. They also set up a polaroid picture guestbook to help capture all the special people that played a part in cele ating their wedding.
The Seafood Feast
Katie and Justin wanted to show off all their favorite Maryland foods for their reception. For starters, they served crab dip and raw oysters. Crab cakes and Sandy Pony Donuts displayed their state pride for dinner and dessert.
The Tropical Honeymoon
The pair jetted off to Costa Rica for a ten-day honeymoon that married adventure, beach bumming, and just enough indulgence. “From hot springs to horseback riding and waterfall rappelling, we really tried to experience it all,” Katie says. “We can't wait to go back.”
Her Stress-Reducing Advice
“Find a venue that speaks to your style and the atmosphere you'd like your wedding to have,” Katie says. “The rest will fall into place after that!”
The details:
Videographer: Paul Kwak | Florist: April Folk (Groom's aunt) | Music: CJ Curtis of Crow Entertainment | Caterer: Herrington on the Bay | Desserts: Sandy Pony Donuts Bride's attire: Essence of Australia (gown), Wren Bridal (store), Sam Edelman (shoes) | Beauty: StyleMeBar, Tracey Garcia (makeup) and Amanda Moran (hair)
Rings: Mervis and Helzberg Diamond | Bridesmaid dresses: Revelry | Menswear: Capital Custom Clothiers | Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas/Shutterfly
See our Ultimate Wedding Guide on page 80 for more vendor information.
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