Classic coastal black tie wedding at Kirkland Manor

Maryland wedding couple with dog ring bearer

Today, we're heading to Maryland for a beautiful love story.. We love a good love story! Sara and Ray initially met as kids on their summer swim team. Throughout the years, they remained friends, reconnecting more seriously after college, and the rest is history! On the eve of Sara’s 30th birthday, Ray proposed when they were visiting Bethany Beach in Delaware, so they were able to celebrate their engagement with some of their closest friends. After having said "I do," what was the couple's number one piece of advice? "Hire help if it's in your budget! A wedding planner or coordinator can end up actually saving you money because they have so many vendor recommendation and great advice." And their planner definitely had a lot of advice to share!

Keep scrolling to see photography by Manda Weaver Photography of this incredible day at Kirkland Manor planned by Rebecca Thomas Events, featuring florals by Seaberry Farm, rentals from Eastern Shore Tents and Events, and the prettiest fireworks display to end the night courtesy of Schaefer Fireworks. Click here to check out the full gallery of photos, also linked at the bottom of this page!

wedding invitations with location pictures

something blue wedding shoes

feather-trimmed silk pajamas

Light and airy bridal portraits

cala lilies for bridal bouquet

bridesmaid dresses

Classic black tie groomsmen

Bride getting ready for first look

Maryland estate venue first look

Maryland couple first look

Romantic black and white first look

Maryland private estate wedding

Classic elegance bridal party

A light and airy vibe meant endless amounts of floating greenery and natural textures

This wedding at the Kirkland Manor celebrated the beauty of Maryland’s Eastern shores. The Georgian-style mansion was perfect for Sara’s vision of an elegant and serene affair. Sara even hinted that much of her inspiration came from the movie "Wedding Crashers," where timeless details show off the true beauty of the Maryland coastline. The breathy color palette of greens, whites, and natural textures made everything airy and light, with bamboo chandeliers strung up between greenery delicately floating above the reception tent. The seating chart was set as a stunning champagne wall installation also covered in greenery, and outdoor lounges encouraged guests to relax. The couple custom printed koozies as wedding favors, featuring their golden retriever named Bear. And as the evening came to a close, a live band brought everyone to the dance floor before fireworks ended the incredible day on a high note!

Welcome Wedding Sign