Abby Jiu sent over the photos from this sweetly simple Maryland wedding, and it’s just full of beautifully classic elements and DIY details. And I love all the little pops of red!

Says Meghan, “My husband grew up in Ireland, so he said his vows in Gaelic. We also had Irish dancing, singing and music playing at the end of the night.”

DIY centerpieces were small galvanized buckets with various live herbs, which the couple later planted in their herb garden.

The couple set up a cigar bar for their guests to enjoy after dinner.

From the beautiful bride:

Why did you choose this venue for your wedding?  We both enjoy learning about and experiencing history, so when choosing venues, we wanted that to be the focal point. The church was one of the first Catholic churches in Maryland (and in the United States) and Woodlawn Farm was built in 1798.

What inspired you when you were planning your wedding? With the setting having such amazing American history, we wanted the feel of the wedding to be a bit vintage, a bit Americana and most of all personal. We put a personal touch into everything from the hand drawn map of our relationship on the welcome bags, to going out of our way to include our favorite dessert (Georgetown Cupcakes), to having our pup, Murphy, be a part of the reception.

Do you have any DIY tips for other brides?  1. Pick your battles in budget and in time. If there is a pre-made item that would not be much more expensive to purchase than make, save yourself time (and sanity) and buy it. That way you can focus on other DIY projects.  2. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Most people want to be a part of your special day. I held a DIY wedding party where I had 15 friends over to spray paint, glue, write out, cut all my DIY projects. We had so much fun and I got a bunch of items crossed off my DIY list.

What was your favorite moment or part of the day?  Groom: Besides kissing Meghan for the first time as my wife, listening to the maid of honor’s and best man’s speeches – hilarious and they so nailed us as a couple. Bride: We were able to have a moment by the dock, just the two of us, which put everything into perspective. I also loved how our dog, Murphy, somehow walked out with us when we were introduced to the reception. If you knew Murphy, you’d know that he is usually running around, but he knew to stay by our side at that moment.

Vendors

Photography: Abby Jiu / Ceremony venue: St. Ignatius Catholic Church / Reception venue: Woodlawn Farm in Ridge, Maryland / Bride’s dress: Cymbeline / Hair: Hair by Jewels / Invitation suite: Kara Correspondence / Catering: Expressions Catering / Baker: Georgetown Cupcakes / Music: Doug Segree Band

See more from this beautiful wedding over on Abby Jiu’s blog!