Photos by Jax Photography
Michelle and Omar’s Running Hare Vineyard wedding in Prince Frederick, MD, was a masterclass in flexibility, romantic details, and high-energy surprises. From a hilltop villa overlooking lush greenery to a ceremony that moved outdoors at the very last minute, their April celebration was perfectly “them”. The day was defined by a sense of calm and joy, reflecting a couple that truly knows how to lean into the moment and enjoy the celebration they worked so hard to plan.
Getting Ready & First Looks at the Vineyard
Before the ceremony, Michelle and Omar took advantage of the scenic grounds for photos, wandering through the rows of vines that make this venue such a standout in Southern Maryland. To keep the day intimate and organized, we worked closely with their photography and videography team to coordinate separate “first looks” with their parents. We intentionally planned these in separate locations, at the ceremony site and on the portico, to ensure the couple could share these emotional moments with their families without accidentally seeing each other before their own big reveal.
After these private family moments, we guided Michelle and Omar to a secluded spot in the vines for their own first look. It was a quiet, romantic breath before the festivities kicked off. They utilized the scenic vineyard backdrop for their couple portraits before returning to the villa’s portico to gather their wedding party for group photos with their closest friends.
Planner Tip: Choosing the right professional to capture these moments is key. Your photographer should be someone who understands your timeline as well as they understand lighting. Learn more about our tips for choosing a wedding photographer.
A Last-Minute Ceremony Pivot
If you are planning a Running Hare Vineyard wedding, you likely dream of an outdoor ceremony under the white pergola. However, Maryland weather is famously unpredictable. On the morning of Michelle and Omar’s wedding, the forecast showed a daunting 90% chance of rain. To ensure everything remained seamless, our team originally set up the ceremony inside the villa’s ballroom, using the floor-to-ceiling windows to frame the front of the aisle so the couple still had a view of the estate.
However, less than an hour before guests began to arrive, the forecast shifted unexpectedly. Our team immediately jumped into action, moving the entire floral and chair setup back outside to the vineyard. We were absolutely thrilled that the weather cooperated, allowing Michelle and Omar to have the dream outdoor wedding they had envisioned from the start.
Personal Touches and a Lively Processional
The ceremony itself was full of personality and unique touches that kept guests smiling. To the high-energy sounds of “luther” by Kendrick Lamar and SZA, the wedding party made a grand entrance. Omar’s side of the party walked the stone pathway carrying a handheld volleyball net and a beach ball for guests to toss around, while Michelle’s side added to the whimsy by blasting bubble guns. It was a joyful, unconventional start that perfectly set the tone for the rest of the night.
As the music transitioned to the classic “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” a wave of sentimentality hit the crowd as Michelle walked down the aisle with her parents. Under the floral-adorned pergola, the couple exchanged heartfelt personal vows, their excitement visible to every guest in attendance. The ceremony concluded on a high note with a gorgeous petal toss as they made their way back up the aisle as a married couple.
Cocktail Hour on the Portico
While Michelle and Omar finished up family photos under the pergola, guests transitioned through the blooming vine tunnels toward the villa’s portico for cocktail hour. The portico is one of the most beloved features of a Running Hare Vineyard wedding, offering an expansive, sweeping vista of the vineyard and surrounding greenery. It’s the perfect spot for guests to socialize while taking in the estate’s romantic, lush scenery.
Guests enjoyed a variety of refreshments, featuring Running Hare’s signature wine slushies. To help the couple remember the day from their guests’ perspectives, a Polaroid station was set up where friends and family could snap photos and tape them directly into the couple’s guest book with a personal note.
Reception in the Villa Ballroom
Once the cocktail hour wrapped up, the celebration moved into the ballroom, a space filled with natural light from the windows overlooking the grounds. Michelle and Omar kicked off the reception with a romantic first dance, which led directly into a flavorful buffet-style dinner. They sat at a decorated sweetheart table, taking a moment to bask in the love and listen to toasts from their VIPs.
The room was filled with thoughtful details, including a wedding cake propped up on a rustic wine barrel. One of the most charming touches was a small figurine of the couple’s dog on the cake. After dinner, the atmosphere shifted to one of deep appreciation as Michelle and Omar each shared a special dance with their parents.
Dancing and a Sparkling Fireworks Surprise
As the evening progressed, the lights were dimmed and colorful glow towers were brought out to start the party. The dance floor stayed packed all night, fueled by the music and nearby photo booth. Between sets, guests grabbed delicious cake slices and cupcakes in both mango and chocolate flavors.
The highlight of the night, however, was a surprise for guests that had been months in the making. The Weddings by Kristy team worked closely with the couple and a professional fireworks vendor to secure the necessary permits and keep the secret under wraps. After the final song on the dance floor, we guided the unsuspecting guests back onto the portico. As the first firework lit up the night sky over the vineyard, the air was filled with cheers and marvel. Michelle and Omar watched the display together, soaking up the final moments of an incredible day.
Thinking about a Running Hare Vineyard wedding? Contact Weddings by Kristy to start planning a celebration that is truly you. We love helping couples navigate everything from weather pivots to firework permits with a calm, practical approach.
The Creative Team
- Coordination: Weddings by Kristy
- Venue: Running Hare Vineyard
- Photography and Videography: Jax Photography
- Catering: Bayside Bull Catering
- DJ and Photo booth: Extraordinary Events
- Fireworks: Fantastic Fireworks
- Hair and Makeup: Shy Beauty LLC
- Dress: Azazie
- Suit: Suit Supply
