Love Wins: A Clock Tower Engagement Shoot for a Resilient Couple

Last summer Marcus and his fiancé, Marissa, were peacefully protesting a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville when tragedy struck. A driver charged his vehicle at a group of protesters and Marcus instinctively pushed Marissa out of the way to safety, crushing his leg in the process. The couple lost their dear friend, Heather Heyer, that day. But in the midst of a terrible situation, Marcus + Marissa are more determined than ever to spread the message of love + hope. You may have seen M + M share their story with Ellen or on several other media accounts. We are honored to be just one more outlet helping this incredible couple shout from the rooftops that no matter how bad it gets, love wins every time.

Bell Giornata Events designed a magical clock tower engagement photo session for the couple, sharing: Marissa is a recent law school graduate fighting for human rights and equality. The mantra for their life is #lovewins. They value every day and were afraid their wedding would never happen due to the injuries Marcus endured. M + M receive hate mail and threats each day but I have assured them we stand with them, we support that love will win and there is no place for bigotry or hate. They are now in a fight that will last in the courts for years & I am determined to give them the wedding of their dreams. 

Alicia Wiley Photography captured M + M’s beautiful and resilient love. Let’s have a look:

These whimsical invitations from Minted are perfect!

WOW.

Marcus looks handsome in Aspetto, and are you obsessed with Marrisa’s dresses like we are?! She’s STUNNING.

SO dreamy.

Fat Girl Cakes and Soul Cakes created the COOLEST cakes for the day!

This dress!!

Marcus and Marissa, we stand with you two and your message that LOVE WINS! Thank you for your courage and beautiful hearts—we wish you all the best in your marriage!

photography: Alicia Wiley Photography // venue name: Emerson Bromo Seltzer Clock Tower, Baltimore, Maryland, USA // event design: Bell Giornata Events // florals: Blushing Blooms Events // bride's shoes: Badgely Mischka // bride's ring: Gemstone Creations // hair stylist: Reyunna Harper // makeup artist: Shanelle Squire // groom attire: Aspetto // paper goods: Minted // cake: Fat Girl Cakes // desserts: Soul Cakes // tabletop rentals: Memorable Moments // models: Marissa Blair and Marcus Martin