By Maryland Wedding Photographer, Kimberly Dean
I photograph so many weddings across the state, and Maryland bridal trends are deeply influenced by place. From the waterfront towns along the Chesapeake Bay to historic estates outside Baltimore and charming coastal celebrations near Annapolis, Maryland brides are choosing looks that feel elevated, effortless, and perfectly suited to their surroundings. Luckily, this state offers a vast variety of waterfront, coastal, city, and even country settings to accommodate the many personalities and preferences of Maryland brides!
Rather than chasing fast-moving social media trends, Maryland brides are embracing timeless style with thoughtful, location-driven details — looks that feel beautiful now and still photograph elegantly years from today… my favorite style is always a timeless one.
Because so many Maryland weddings take place outdoors or near the water, bridal fashion is leaning lighter and more breathable.
Popular choices include:
- Flowy skirts that move well in bay breezes
- Silk, chiffon, and soft lace fabrics
- Minimal boning and relaxed silhouettes
- Dresses that allow for comfort in warm, humid summers
These gowns photograph beautifully along the Chesapeake Bay, on the Eastern Shore, and at estate venues surrounded by greenery. Below showcase some of my favorite coastal and estate weddings I had the pleasure of photographing in Maryland:
Bridal Hair & Makeup That Holds Up in Maryland Weather
Weather plays a huge role in beauty choices. With summer heat, humidity, and outdoor ceremonies common, brides are opting for looks that last
Maryland bridal beauty trends include:
- Glowy but lightweight makeup
- Low buns, soft updos, or half-up styles
- Hairstyles designed to withstand humidity
- A “polished but natural” overall finish
This approach ensures brides still look like themselves — and their look holds up from first look to final dance.
This image below showcases the perfect example – even with humidity and strong winds on a sailboat, this bride’s hairstyle choice moved with the flow without falling apart, AND was soft enough to not look like it was cemented to her head with hair spray. Some tendrils of hair were able to blow with the wind making for such a natural look.
Historic Venue–Inspired Bridal Style
Maryland is home to countless historic mansions, estates, and classic venues, and brides are styling themselves accordingly.
At these venues, trends lean more timeless:
- Structured gowns with clean lines
- Lace sleeves or high necklines
- Classic veils and heirloom jewelry
- Elegant updos and refined accessories
These looks complement Maryland’s architecture and create images that feel editorial, romantic, and enduring.
Coastal-Inspired Details for Chesapeake & Eastern Shore Brides
Brides getting married near the Chesapeake Bay or on the Eastern Shore are subtly weaving coastal influence into their look — without going full nautical.
Common elements include:
- Organic, loose floral bouquets
- Neutral tones with soft blues or greens
- Minimal accessories with natural textures
- Veils and fabrics that move beautifully outdoors
The result is a look that feels refined, relaxed, and very Maryland.
Decor, Favors and Table Settings Perfect the Maryland Wedding Vibe
Adding elements of Maryland’s staples such as: crabs and old bay, equestrian decor, nautical vibes, and all things Maryland can be done in a wide variety of creative ways.
Signage, table seating, napkins, crab mallets, even Maryland inspired foods like crab cakes or having Taharka Brothers ice cream served.
The best part about Maryland weddings, as a Maryland Wedding photographer, is the variety and details I get to photograph. I love not knowing quite what’s in store when I enter the venue… and the element of surprise and authenticity of each wedding!
Are you planning a wedding in Maryland? Click here to contact me about your wedding photography!
