A Dreamy Waterfront Tented Wedding at Black Walnut Point Inn: Beth & Brandon's Coastal Garden Party
When Beth and Brandon first reached out to us (after being referred by past clients Emily & Garrett – we absolutely love when our couples become our biggest advocates!), they knew exactly what they wanted: to feel like guests at their own waterfront tented wedding in Maryland. After nearly seven years together since meeting through mutual friends at UMD, this Baltimore-based couple was ready to celebrate their love story with a stunning waterfront tented wedding in Maryland’s beautiful Eastern Shore region.
From Waterfront Proposal to a Waterfront Tented Wedding
Beth and Brandon’s journey began in college, but their engagement story perfectly captured what would become their wedding day vision. In 2023, Brandon proposed during a romantic getaway to St. Michael’s. He popped the question while they shared drinks on a waterfront dock at their Airbnb. That serene, waterfront moment was surrounded by gentle waves and Eastern Shore charm.
That’s why when it came time to choose their wedding venue, returning to the water felt like the most natural thing to do. Beth and Brandon envisioned a coastal, casual garden party vibe under a classic sailcloth tent. Black Walnut Point Inn delivered that dream in every way. The venue’s stunning waterfront location perfectly echoed the magic of their engagement. Additionally, it provided the ideal backdrop for their relaxed, elegant aesthetic.
What made their celebration truly special was how it naturally evolved into a weekend retreat experience. This allowed their loved ones to escape the everyday. They could celebrate together in this beautiful Eastern Shore setting that meant so much to the couple.
Perfect Color Palette for a Coastal Maryland Tented Wedding
One of our favorite design elements was how Beth and Brandon approached their wedding party attire. Instead of matching bridesmaids dresses, they chose a gorgeous mix of colors, patterns, and textures in yellow, light green, and coral. Four bridesmaids wore solid colors while two chose beautiful patterns. This created that effortless, garden party aesthetic that felt both intentional and relaxed. (If you’re considering this approach for your own wedding, check out our guide on how to coordinate mismatched bridesmaids for expert tips!)
The overall color story of ivory, pastel peach, pale yellow, and sage green perfectly complemented the waterfront setting. It created that dreamy summer garden party atmosphere.
Overgrown Garden Florals That Stole the Show
The floral design was absolutely stunning and perfectly captured that “overgrown, wild, casual” feeling Beth and Brandon wanted. The arrangements featured:
- Queen Anne’s Lace for that wild, roadside charm
- Lisianthus and white cosmos for romantic texture
- Cream and pale yellow garden roses for classic elegance
- Zinnias for pops of cheerful color
- White hydrangeas for lush fullness
These blooms created arrangements that looked like they were just gathered from a cottage garden, which was exactly the vibe this couple was going for.
Eastern Shore Dining Done Right
The food was a true celebration of Eastern Shore culture, starting with Friday night’s welcome event – a traditional crab boil featuring Maryland blue crabs, shrimp, corn, fried chicken, and fresh salad sides. For the wedding day, Gourmet by the Bay created a menu that honored local flavors:
- Fresh oysters to start
- Beef brisket and crab cakes for the main course
- Late-night pizza for dancing fuel
- Smith Island cakes for dessert (a perfect Eastern Shore touch!)
The Smith Island cakes were particularly special – this multilayered dessert originated right here on the Eastern Shore, making it a meaningful nod to the location.
Thoughtful Summer Details That Made It The Perfect Weekend Getaway
The sailcloth tent was an absolute dream! Not only did it provide essential comfort during the day, but it also served as the perfect centerpiece for Beth and Brandon’s coastal garden party vibe. However, we knew we had to plan for that strong August sun. To make sure everyone could relax in complete comfort, Beth and Brandon provided stylish fans and parasols—a thoughtful touch that kept guests cool while adding to the elegant garden party aesthetic. Those little details show how much they cared about their loved ones’ experience. (Looking for more ways to keep guests comfortable? Check out our summer wedding must-haves guide for essential tips!)
Once evening arrived, the tent completely transformed. The string lights illuminated the cream sailcloth beautifully, and the flags added movement and visual interest against the night sky. The lighting created such a warm, inviting atmosphere that perfectly complemented the waterfront setting. It’s proof that a well-designed tent can be just as stunning as any traditional venue! (For couples considering a similar approach, our guide to choosing the perfect tent for your Maryland wedding offers essential insights.)
The Magic Moment: Fireworks Over the Water
The evening’s grand finale was absolutely spectacular – fireworks over the waterfront! There’s something so magical about celebrating love with fireworks reflecting on the water, and it created the perfect ending to their coastal celebration.
Planning a Waterfront Tented Wedding in Maryland?
Beth and Brandon’s celebration is proof that a tented wedding can be absolutely elegant while feeling relaxed and personal. The key is choosing the right location, embracing the coastal setting, and focusing on details that enhance rather than compete with the natural beauty.
If you’re planning a waterfront tented wedding in Maryland and want to create that same effortless elegance, we’d love to help you design your perfect day. From logistics coordination to ensuring you feel like a guest at your own celebration, we’re here to make your wedding dreams come true.
Ready to plan your dream Maryland waterfront wedding? Let’s chat about how we can help you create an unforgettable celebration that feels authentically you.
Featured Vendors
Coordinator | Moore & Co Events
Photography | Sarah Murray Photography
Venue | Black Walnut Point Inn
Florals | Little Fields Floral
Rentals | Eastern Shore Tents and Events
Catering | Two If By Sea
Bar | Gourmet by the Bay
DJ | Mixing Maryland DJs
Hair & Makeup | Alicia Zart Artistry, Beyond the Updo
Bridal Gown | Amanda Ritchey Bridal Loft
Groom’s Attire | Suit Shop