Elegance Meets Edge: Inside Gabby & Donte’s Luxe Baltimore Wedding
Baltimore, MD | Photographed by Madeline Palardy
Gabby and Donte’s wedding day? An absolute vibe.
These two high school sweethearts tied the knot on one of the most beautiful October days I’ve ever seen in Baltimore, crisp air, golden light, and the kind of sky that just gets photographed well. The whole day had this luxe-meets-modern-micro-goth feel that was effortlessly cool and deeply elegant. Think rich textures, bold color, and lots of emotion.
Love That’s Been Years in the Making
Gabby and Donte go way back. They met in high school and have been each other's ride-or-die ever since. They love exploring together but also thrive in simply being together, just two people who genuinely enjoy each other’s company. That vibe carried through their entire wedding day: calm, connected, and completely wrapped up in the moment.
The Vibes Were Immaculate
From the moment I arrived, the energy was electric. There was that perfect mix of nerves and excitement—the kind you feel when something big is about to happen. During the couple’s first look, Donte had the sweetest tear-filled reaction that made even me emotional (yes, I cry at weddings and I’m not sorry about it).
Martin’s West was the perfect venue for their celebration. It had all the space they needed, gorgeous draping everywhere, and this timeless, upscale look that fit their vision perfectly—without needing a ton of extra decor. Minimal details + a beautiful space = a winning combo.
Fashion + Feels
Gabby and Donte looked amazing in classic formal wear, and their crew brought the heat too. The bridesmaids wore burnt orange dresses, each in a different style, super flattering and perfectly in step with the fall season. Their color palette of creams, pinks, oranges, and black brought just the right amount of drama (in the best way).
Sentimental, Sweet, and So Much Fun
There were so many meaningful moments woven into the day. Gabby’s mom walking her down the stairs for her first look with Donte? That quiet moment felt sacred. And the first look with her dad—whew—I was holding back tears behind my camera. During the ceremony, they jumped the broom, continuing a beautiful tradition that was powerful to witness.
The speeches had everyone in their feelings too—especially the emotional toast from Gabby’s dad before the reception kicked off.
And then came the party.
The Dance Floor Was on Another Level
When I say the dance floor was hypnotic—I mean it. From the very first song, people were out of their seats and on their feet. The energy didn’t dip for a single second. It was joy, movement, and sweaty happiness from wall to wall. You could just feel how much everyone was loving every second of it—hands in the air, shoes off by the end of the night, huge grins all around.
Sweet Tooths Rejoiced
The dessert bar? Massive hit. Guests were lining up for a second (and third) round of sweet treats from Kupcakes & Co. There was something for everyone, and it wasn’t just about the taste—it all looked stunning, too. Like, almost too pretty to eat… but we ate it anyway.
Favors That Hit Different
And let’s talk about the favors—lottery tickets and custom mini “newspapers” about Gabby and Donte’s story. People were obsessed. It was such a clever touch, and guests couldn’t stop talking about how fun and personal it was. It felt like a nod to nostalgia and hope at the same time—a perfect mix.
A Full-Circle Moment for Me
Getting to photograph this wedding was so personal for me. I actually met Gabby and Donte years ago when Gabby’s stepmom Sandra booked me for my very first paid family session. (I charged $50 while building my portfolio!) They've been cheering me on ever since, and having them trust me with their wedding day felt like the most special full-circle moment.
When couples give me the freedom to capture their day authentically—without too many must-haves or stress about the timeline—that’s when the real magic happens. Gabby and Donte did just that, and it shows in every photo.
From the Couple
“Maddie is absolutely amazing at her craft!! She has shared multiple moments with us throughout the years and has only gotten more and more amazing with each interaction. There is no one I trust more to capture the most important life moments.”
Vendor Team That Brought the Vibes
Photographer: Madeline Palardy Photography
Venue: Martin’s West
Officiant: Ceremony Officiants
Decor Rentals: Lucky in Love
Decorator: Katie Maureen Events
DJ: Marvin B. Washington
Desserts: Kupcakes & Co.
Hair & Makeup: About Faces Day Spa
Seriously—this was a wedding I won’t ever forget. Gabby and Donte, thank you for bringing me along for the ride. Your love is something special.
