Maryland’s charm makes it a fantastic place to tie the knot, but its unique characteristics also require some thoughtful planning. From unpredictable weather to local traffic quirks, these tips will help you anticipate potential challenges so your wedding day is smooth and stress-free.
1. Maryland’s Unpredictable Weather
Maryland’s weather can vary wildly depending on the season. Summers are humid, winters can bring snow, and spring and fall often have mild temperatures but unexpected rain. To prepare:
- Consider an indoor/outdoor option: Many Maryland venues offer covered spaces, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about a sudden downpour.
- Embrace backup plans: If your heart is set on an outdoor ceremony, have a Plan B ready, like a tent rental or an indoor ceremony space.
- Dress accordingly: If your wedding is in the height of summer, choose lighter fabrics for your attire and keep your guests cool with fans or shade.
2. Daylight Savings Time and Sunset Timings
The time of year impacts how much daylight you’ll have, which can influence everything from your ceremony time to your photography schedule.
- Spring Forward, Fall Back: If your wedding falls around the Daylight Savings Time switch, double-check how it affects your timeline. Losing or gaining an hour can impact everything from vendor arrival times to sunset photos.
- Golden Hour: Work with your photographer to schedule portraits during the soft, warm light of golden hour—usually an hour before sunset.
3. Mosquito Season
If your Maryland wedding is outdoors in late spring or summer, mosquitos can be a nuisance. Keep these tips in mind:
- Bug spray stations: Provide your guests with bug repellents in decorative baskets for easy access.
- Citronella candles: Use stylish citronella candles or tiki torches to keep insects at bay while adding to the ambiance.
- Timing matters: Mosquitos are most active around dusk, so try to schedule outdoor events earlier in the day if possible.
4. Local Events and Peak Travel Times
Maryland hosts a variety of festivals, sporting events, and tourist attractions that can cause unexpected traffic jams or limited accommodations for your guests.
- Check local calendars: Look for major events near your venue, especially in popular areas like Annapolis, Baltimore, or Ocean City.
- Secure accommodations early: If your wedding coincides with a big event, block hotel rooms well in advance to ensure your guests have places to stay.
- Communicate clearly: Include detailed directions and alternative routes on your wedding website to help guests avoid traffic hotspots.
5. Bridge Traffic
If your wedding venue is on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, plan for potential delays on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Choose off-peak times: Try to schedule your wedding on a Friday evening or Sunday morning to avoid Saturday afternoon congestion.
- Share travel tips: Let guests know about apps like Waze to track real-time traffic updates and suggest the best travel windows.
- Buffer your timeline: Account for potential delays when scheduling vendor arrival times or guest travel plans.
Planning Ahead for a Smooth Maryland Wedding
Maryland offers a beautiful backdrop for weddings, from waterfront venues to historic estates, but its quirks mean a little extra planning goes a long way. By preparing for the elements, timing, and local nuances, you’ll be ready to focus on what really matters: celebrating your love story.
Looking for a photographer who knows Maryland inside and out? Megan Bennett Photography captures every detail and moment, no matter the season or setting.
