Sophie Madorsky and Benjamin Rubin embarked on their marital journey with a profound commitment to sustainability and personal heritage. Their entire wedding weekend, from the celebratory dinners to the vows exchanged, was a meticulously curated affair, centered around vintage and pre-owned garments and accessories. This unique approach not only reflected their shared values but also wove a rich tapestry of family history and conscious fashion into their special occasion.
The Sustainable Nuptials of Sophie Madorsky and Benjamin Rubin
In a heartwarming celebration of love and conscientious living, Sophie Madorsky, an acclaimed actor and proprietor of a vintage bridal boutique, united with Benjamin Rubin, the innovative CEO of a climate tech company, in September at the picturesque Highlands Mansion and Gardens in Philadelphia. This Georgian-era estate provided a perfect backdrop for their deeply sentimental and sustainable wedding. Every piece of attire and jewelry worn by the couple and their wedding party throughout the weekend, with the sole exception of Ben's tuxedo shirt, was either vintage or lovingly pre-owned. This dedication to "something old" became the foundational theme of their entire event, resonating with their professional lives, both of which champion sustainability.
A particularly poignant detail of Sophie's wedding ensemble was her cocktail hour attire, featuring a satin wedding coat worn by her grandmother, Reneé, at her own wedding in 1949. Sophie, at just 16, was first shown this treasured garment. Years later, she daringly hand-washed the delicate silk, restoring its original softness and sheen. She then ingeniously repurposed the sleeves, transforming them into a sophisticated bowtie for Ben, crafted by Pinpoint Bridal on the Upper East Side. This touching gesture honored her late grandmother, who Sophie felt would have found great amusement and joy in the "ordeal" of its restoration and transformation. Ben's distinctive wedding look also championed vintage elegance, featuring a custom double-breasted tuxedo from Ebreo Vintage in Williamsburg, complemented by Bally silk woven tuxedo shoes from Gentleman’s Resale on the Upper East Side. A pearl and gold chain bracelet, thoughtfully sewn onto the back of his collar by Sophie, added a personal touch of glamour. In lieu of a traditional boutonnière, he wore an heirloom diamond brooch belonging to his great-grandmother, further intertwining family history into their celebration.
For the main ceremony, where they exchanged vows beneath a chuppah built by Sophie's father and adorned with lace from her mother, Sophie donned a custom-designed gown. This intricate creation was the result of a nine-month collaboration with emerging designer Elza Khalife, an FIT student. The gown featured a custom bodice, skirt, and veil, showcasing Elza's artistry. The foundation of the corset was ingeniously crafted from two vintage skirts sourced from renowned vintage collector and bridal designer, Shareen Mitchell. Sophie, who had previously purchased these skirts, later helped Mitchell manage her shop during its closing, an experience that inspired Sophie to open her own vintage bridal salon in June 2025. She even reserved enough fabric from one of the Shareen skirts to create a separate, pearl-embellished rosette skirt for her reception dancing, ensuring each wedding look told a unique and meaningful story.
This wedding beautifully illustrates that embracing sustainability and personal history can elevate a celebration beyond mere aesthetics. Sophie and Ben's journey inspires couples to consider the stories embedded within cherished items and the profound impact of conscious choices, demonstrating that enduring love and environmental responsibility can be elegantly intertwined.
