December 19, 2025

Why I’m Obsessed with Photographing Weddings at The Annapolis Waterfront Hotel

If you are looking for something in the heart of Annapolis that will wow your out-of-town guests then this is your place.

1. The VIEWS. Like… the views.

If you’ve never seen a golden-hour glow bounce off the Chesapeake Bay behind a couple saying “I do,” let me paint a picture: It’s romantic. It’s cinematic. It’s borderline illegal how good the photos look.
Downtown is in distance, sail boats drift by the waterfront cocktail hour, and every angle is giving nautical vibes. And when the sun sets or you are there during the fireworks displays? Pure magic.

2. The Vibe: Coastal Chic Without Trying Too Hard

Some venues try to be “coastal.” The Waterfront Hotel just is coastal.
It’s got that clean, modern Marriott Autograph feel mixed with breezy bayside charm.

Minimalist perfection with all that natural light bouncing off the water. The walls are gorgeous shades of dark blues & nautical elements decorate the getting ready suites & the reception spaces.

3. A First-Look Paradise

There are a few tried-and-true first-look locations I keep coming back to:

  • The dock area (for the “wind in her veil moment) near where the schooner woodwind docks.
  • The waterfront deck looking over ego alley – people watching, sunset photos – chef’s kiss!
  • The side streets of historic Annapolis are a walk away (brick, charm, and old-town romantic energy)

Every option allows you to be just who you are!

4. Walkability = Spontaneous Photo Gold

One of the best parts of this location? Within a five-minute walk you can have it all…

  • Quaint cobblestone alleys
  • Ego Alley
  • Colorful doors and historic architecture
  • Ice cream stops at the pier (yes, couples do this… and yes, it photographs adorably)

I’m a sucker for candid, unscripted moments, and Annapolis practically throws them at you.

5. Staff That Actually Gets It

A photographer loves nothing more than a venue team that’s organized, communicative, and doesn’t panic when timelines shift (because… they always do).
The team here? Absolute gems. They know the layout, understand the flow, and work with vendors—not against them—which means a smoother day and better photos across the board.

Final Thoughts: This Venue is just amazing!

If you’re getting married in Annapolis and want:
✨ Waterfront views
✨ Easy access to the city
✨ Endless photo locations
✨ A venue that feels classy but not stuffy
✨ And a wedding gallery that looks straight out of Pinterest

Tell me what you want to remember.

Get in touch