An Edwardian-Inspired Wedding in Baltimore: Elena & Andrew

Some weddings feel less like a single day and more like a carefully collected story - built from textures, eras, and details that feel lovingly worn-in. Elena and Andrew’s wedding in April 2024 was exactly that: intentional, nostalgic, and deeply rooted in the city they’ve called home for nearly a decade.

After eight years living in Baltimore, the city had become an essential part of their story. While they’ve built a wonderful community of friends - and some family - locally, many of their loved ones would be traveling in from elsewhere for the wedding. Rather than treating Baltimore simply as a backdrop, Elena and Andrew saw the day as an opportunity to share what they love most about the city: its historic charm, walkability, and the sense of warmth that comes from places layered with history.

Elena’s dress search didn’t come with a sweeping sentimental backstory - it came from a desire to feel like herself. She was drawn to gowns that recalled a past era, felt truly unique, and stayed within budget, but struggled to find something locally that checked all those boxes.

Taking a leap of faith, she purchased an antique net embroidered wedding gown from our shop, Adored Bridal. Dating back to the Edwardian era, the one-of-a-kind gown featured a rounded neckline, short three-quarter sleeves, and a flowing a-line, tiered skirt. Made from airy white cotton, it was entirely hand-embroidered with intricate floral motifs, cutouts, raised details, and delicate net ruffle trims along the hem and cuffs. Buttons down the back fastened with hooks, adding to the gown’s authentic antique charm.

Though buying a dress from so far away felt a little scary, Elena was immediately drawn to the craftsmanship, the breezy silhouette, and the abundance of thoughtful details. After a few intentional alterations - including opening out the back and adding a vintage tiered underskirt for extra length and a subtle train, as well as lining most of the gown - the dress became unmistakably hers.

More than just the dress, it ended up setting the tone for the entire wedding.

Andrew’s vintage dusty rose tweed suit complemented Elena’s Edwardian wedding gown perfectly, reinforcing the sense that the couple had stepped out of another era - romantic, timeless, and entirely authentic to who they are.

Florals reflected the same intentionality. All arrangements were created using in-season blooms from local growers, thoughtfully sourced and designed by Ellen Frost of Local Color Flowers. The result felt organic, romantic, and perfectly in tune with both the season and the setting.

Elena’s look was completed by Alexandra Weddings Co., whose hair and makeup artistry played a key role in bringing the vision together. She understood exactly what Elena was hoping for: big, brushed-out vintage curls that felt soft and romantic without ever tipping into costume. The result was polished, natural, and deeply aligned with the overall aesthetic of the day.

The ceremony took place at Holy Cross Church, Elena and Andrew’s neighborhood parish, grounding the day in a space already rich with meaning. Afterward, guests joined the couple for a walk to their favorite nearby park for group photos - a simple but deeply personal way to experience the neighborhood and slow the pace of the day.

The celebration continued at Topside, located on the top floor of Hotel Revival, overlooking Baltimore’s historic Mount Vernon Square and the Washington Monument. While the sweeping city views were undeniably striking, the stylish, art-filled interior of the space more than held its own.

Being surrounded by all of their favorite people - many gathered from far away - in such a beautiful setting felt surreal. The evening struck that rare balance of elegance and ease, where conversation, laughter, and connection took center stage.

Explore our collection of antique wedding dresses