For Madison and Matthew, wedding planning wasn’t just logistics—it was date nights. The couple spent months taking ballroom lessons together in anticipation of their first dance, turned venue tours into outings, and named every reception table after a favorite restaurant. When it came time to choose a venue, Elkins Estate in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania stopped them in their tracks—a 42-acre historic manor that felt, as Madison put it, like being transported to Europe. Their December 13, 2025 celebration brought it all together: deep red roses, candlelight, black satin bridesmaid gowns, and a live band performing “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” as the couple took the floor for the moment they’d been building toward all year. Mario Oliveto Photography capture the day.
Their Story
“We met on Hinge and had our first date on August 3, 2021 at Tennessee Ave Beer Hall in Atlantic City,” says Madison. “We bonded over our love of food, planned our second date that night, and soon after Matt invited me to two weddings as his date.”
“Since then, we’ve been inseparable—traveling, cooking, trying new restaurants, and spending time with our families.”
The Proposal
“Matt proposed on July 27, 2024, at the top of the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps, and it was a complete surprise—with the moment beautifully captured by a photographer without me realizing,” says Madison.
“I was instantly in shock, started crying, and of course said yes. We celebrated with champagne at Rouge and had brunch with our families the next day.”
“We toured several venues, but Elkins Estate was an instant standout,” says Madison. “It feels like you’re transported to Europe with the stunning architecture and grounds”
“We couldn’t stop thinking about it after our visit and knew it was the perfect place to celebrate. What sealed the deal was bringing our parents for a second tour—they fell in love too!”
Mario Oliveto Photography
Details of the Day
“Our wedding embraced a timeless, romantic, and classic feel inspired by our venue,” says Madison. “We chose deep red—symbolizing love and luck in Chinese tradition—paired with ivory, blush, black, and emerald for a subtle holiday feel.”
“Red roses, lush greenery, and candlelight created a warm, elegant atmosphere.”
“As big foodies, we named each table after our favorite restaurants, with custom signs featuring fun facts and our favorite dishes at each spot.”
“Our first dance was one of our favorite moments,” says Madison. “We took ballroom lessons for months leading up to the wedding, and those nights quickly became some of our favorite date nights.”
“Sharing that moment together to Frankie Valli’s ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,’ performed live by our band, felt so special – and we’ve continued taking lessons ever since.”
Wedding Day Attire
“I wore a classic A-line gown by Jimme Huang with a cathedral veil adorned with cascading pearls,” says Madison.
“Matt wore a custom black tuxedo from Juniors in Philadelphia. The groomsmen also wore black tuxedos, while the bridesmaids wore black satin dresses in varying styles for a cohesive, elegant look.”
Advice For Other Couples
“Don’t let anyone pressure you,” says Madison. “Your wedding should reflect what you both truly want.”
“Embrace the planning and turn it into date nights, like exploring venues, watching band showcases, or taking dance lessons together. The months will fly by, so enjoy every moment, and the week before will feel like the longest in anticipation and excitement!”
Honeymoon
For 2 1/2 weeks, the newlyweds traveled through Hanoi, Vietnam then Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Koh Samui in Thailand.
“We indulged in incredible food—from Michelin-star dining to hidden local gems—shopped, explored temples, visited an elephant sanctuary, enjoyed countless massages, and spent a perfect boat day island hopping,” says Madison. “It was truly the trip of a lifetime.”
Elkins Estate is a 42-acre architecturally rich estate conveniently located outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This historic manor has beauty throughout every detail of the space. Overnight accommodations ...
