How to Pull Off a Waterfront Wedding That Isn't Preppy

Waterfront weddings have a reputation for being polished and preppy, but that doesn’t always have to be the case.

October 20, 2017

waterfront wedding venues in Maryland

While we’re not going to argue that waterfront wedding venues are a natural fit for preppy, beachy and nautical styles, we also realize (and love the fact) that not every couple fits this description. If you’re a bride or groom dreaming of getting married along the water, listen up, because we’re sharing a new take on waterfront wedding style — courtesy of one adorable couple in southern Maryland.

Emily and Jordan had a late June wedding at the Woodlawn Estate Farm, a secluded venue in Maryland’s Calvert County. The 400-year-old property overlooks Calvert Creek and the Potomac River, not far from the Virginia state line. At the end of the venue’s private, mile-long driveway, a charming manor house sits surrounded by towering trees, crop fields, and spacious green lawns. A recently built barn at the estate makes a cozy reception space. Emily and Jordan used the venue’s countryside setting to inspire their waterfront wedding style. They chose a warm, earth-toned wedding color palette (white and green with hints of mauve and fuchsia) and used nature-inspired details to create a romantic bohemian theme. Greenery accents were added throughout their decor to give the wedding a modern spin.

See how their stylish waterfront wedding came together.

Photo: Nessa K Photography

Traditional waterfront wedding stationery usually involves an array of preppy and nautical motifs, such as anchors, life preservers, ropes, seashells...you get the drift. Emily and Jordan put a modern tropical spin on their wedding stationery by personalizing it with botanical-inspired details, such as monstera leaves and proteas. And here’s the kicker: the bride designed these gorgeous invitations herself!

Photo: Nessa K Photography

We are obsessing bigtime over Emily’s lace Rue De Seine wedding dress. Instead of opting for a ball gown or A-line silhouette, she chose this fitted, off-the-shoulder style with boho vibes.

Photo: Nessa K Photography

It all depends on your venue, but the key to hosting a waterfront wedding that feels less formal and more laid-back is keeping your look simple and not too perfect. Emily nailed it with her long, loose curls, sunkissed bridal makeup and oversized bouquet.

Photo: Nessa K Photography

Mix-and-match bridesmaid dresses are another way to achieve a relaxed look. Don’t be shy about letting your ladies wear white — bridesmaid dresses in ivory and cream shades will complement your gown beautifully while still giving you the full spotlight. Your bridesmaids’ bouquets don’t have to match perfectly, either. Give your wedding florist creative freedom to create arrangements that look similar but not identical.

Photo: Nessa K Photography

Keep the men’s attire simple and tailored. Jordan and his groomsmen opted for matching suits sans vests, and added skinny ties for a trendier look.

Photo: Nessa K Photography

When choosing your wedding venue, keep in mind that a historical estate is more low-key and homey versus a formal country club or ballroom, which both veer toward classic, preppy styles.

Photo: Nessa K Photography

For an outdoor ceremony, consider limiting your decor and allowing the natural beauty of your wedding venue do the talking instead. Emily and Jordan gave their guests an unobstructed view of the water by choosing not to have a large ceremony arch or chuppah displayed at their altar.

Photo: Nessa K Photography

Mirroring their wedding stationery theme, the couple’s decor was very garden-focused. Emily created the escort cards by pairing their guests’ names with various pieces of greenery. Centerpieces made a statement with pink and white flowers, such as lisianthus, proteas, anthurium, and amaryllis.

Photo: Nessa K Photography

Greenery is always a stunning option if you want to create a romantic and inviting setting. We’re especially loving the look of this greenery runner with long vines trailing away from the table. For a waterfront wedding, you can mix in some tropical greens like monstera leaves and palm fronds.