The Ultimate Guide to an Annapolis Waterfront Hotel Wedding

If you are planning your wedding, you’re probably getting tired of searching for your perfect venue. The fact is that Maryland has some pretty fantastic spots, and it can feel impossible to choose the one that’s right for your day. At a certain point, it’s tempting just to write them all down and pick one out of a hat. Before you do anything too desperate, I would love to help you out! I am a Maryland wedding photographer, and I get the chance to explore some amazing venues. In fact, I’ve seen so many that I’m here to give you an in-depth rundown of some of the best. Hopefully, you’ll be able to read through and find the one. If you’re searching for a hotel venue, I would love to tell you exactly what you can expect from an Annapolis Waterfront Hotel wedding

About The Annapolis Waterfront Hotel Wedding Venue

80 Compromise Street, Annapolis, Maryland 21401

Annapolis Waterfront Hotel is a historic hotel that was built on the Annapolis Harbor. It’s the only waterfront hotel that still stands in the area. In 2015, the hotel was purchased by the Marriott and transformed into one of their exclusive Autograph Collection spaces. The rooms were given a nautical theme, and modern restaurants were built to give the guests premium food they could enjoy throughout their stay. Today, the hotel is beloved because of its luxurious accommodations and its proximity to the city. When you stay here, you’ll be within walking distance of some of the most beloved Annapolis shops and restaurants. Plus, you’ll have some of the best views of the Chesapeake Bay! The venue has won the WeddingWire Couple’s Choice award for six years. 

Details of the Grounds

The Annapolis Waterfront Hotel wedding venue offers both indoor and outdoor spaces you can use for your ceremony. You can use their pavilion if you would like to host this portion outdoors. This space overlooks the Bay and provides your guests with waterfront views. The ambiance of the waves and the ships in the background will take your wedding to the next level! 

The hotel has the Chesapeake Ballroom inside. This room has gray carpets, light gray walls, and tall ceilings. Modern chandeliers brighten up the space. Your decorations and flowers will make this airy space feel positively divine! 

Both ceremony spaces can be transformed into reception spaces during cocktail hour. For those who would prefer to keep a Bay-themed outdoor party, the venue allows you to set up a dinner on the pavilion. They have an event tent that can be set up over this area. That way, your guests can enjoy the view without dealing with the sun. The venue also has a clear event tent, giving you more climate control without obstructing the view. 

Most couples choose to use the interior ballroom for this portion of their day. The venue has a dance floor that will be placed where you’d like it. You can enjoy a fantastic meal with your guests before dancing the night away! 

Details of a bride in a silk dress with long veil standing in a garden holding her bright pink bouquet at her Annapolis Waterfront Hotel Wedding

Cocktail Hour And Beyond

One of the most popular options for a cocktail hour is the pavilion overlooking the Bay. The venue has furniture they can set out in this area so your guests can have drinks with a view. You could also speak to the hotel about using their Lounge for this portion

The Annapolis Waterfront Hotel allows you to rent and use rooms to prepare for your wedding. With this option, you will have plenty of space to relax with your wedding party ahead of your event. 

The venue can accommodate parties of all sizes. It can hold up to 250 guests and offers options for micro weddings. 

The hotel’s exterior tends to be a popular docking space, giving you views of the boats and yachts. The hotel itself is brick with a gray stately roof. The pavilion has a concrete floor and a white fence that provides a barrier to the water. The interior is a very gentle gray with a dark gray carpet to contrast. Furniture can be set up for a cozy sitting place. 

Photography Opportunities

The Annapolis Waterfront Hotel offers so many one-of-a-kind spots for your wedding portraits. The hotel rooms have balconies you can incorporate into your get-ready pictures. Grab a glass of champagne and make a toast while getting some group portraits. The Bay will serve as a dreamy space for your couple’s portraits. You can get close to the water and incorporate the gorgeous surroundings. Some couples will take couple and group photos on a boat. Lastly, the pier can be used for your portraits. 

A bride looks over her shoulder with a long veil and pink bouquet in a garden at her Annapolis Waterfront Hotel Wedding

Cat Granger Photography

Wedding Details

Once you book your Annapolis Waterfront Hotel wedding, you will start to work with a wedding coordinator. They will be there to help you iron out all of the details and ensure you have everything you need for your perfect day. You can set up a bar with the venue and create a signature drink that your guests can enjoy throughout the night. The catering team will also work with you to create a fantastic meal that suits your tastes perfectly. 

The venue allows you to use a DJ or a live band and can set up a stage for this portion. The entire venue is wheelchair accessible. The hotel itself has over 100 rooms and can provide room blocks for out-of-town guests. They will provide you with tables, chairs, china, glassware, and barware. The hotel is pet-friendly and invites you to bring your four-legged friend to your celebration!

I Hope You Just Found Your Dream Venue With The Annapolis Waterfront Hotel Wedding Venue

With an Annapolis Waterfront Hotel wedding, you will have a stunning Bay wedding your guests will never forget! Schedule your tour soon so you can decide if this is the hotel for you! 

Once you have your venue, it’s time to start thinking about your wedding pictures. That’s where I come in! I am a Maryland wedding photographer, and I adore working with couples to provide them with pictures that capture their unique love story. I would love to sit down and talk so you can decide if I’m the one for you. Contact me today so we can chat!

Newlyweds share an intimate moment hugging and leaning on a boardwalk