Anne & Nick’s spring wedding would have been gorgeous anywhere. Their decision to get hitched at Appleford Estate was a good one because the estate is known as “ the perfect backdrop for any wedding day.” I understand why and I imagine you will too as you peruse the gallery of Anne & Nick’s romantic spring wedding at Appleford Estate!
The Venue: Appleford Estate
Appleford Estate, also known as Parons-Banks Arboretum, is a non-profit arboretum and historic estate located just outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in Villanova. Dating back to 1682, the stunning property houses a public garden which also serves as a private events venue. The venue is a beautiful backdrop for a wedding, fairytale like in its presentation. With expansive meticulously cared for and manicured gardens, tall old growth trees, and an old stone farmhouse, the estate feels magical. Nature is everywhere you look around this 24 acre venue. There’s even a tented reception area on the patio available for plenty of shade in the warm seasons, and an outdoor ceremony site. The estate feels as if it was built solely to host wedding celebrations.
the Love Story
Anne & Nick met during college when they both attended Penn State University. While it wasn’t love at first sight, at least not for both of them, eventually the stars aligned and the planets slowed enough that the timing was right, and they fell in love. Fast forward to their present day. Anne works as a Physical Therapist and Nick is a greenskeeper at a golf course.
Getting Ready
The estate allows for couples to get ready onsite. Intimate and special, Anne opted to get ready onsite with those closest to her, her mother and her sister. Anne absolutely glowed and her mother and sister supported her with her dress, makeup and final touches. Both women donned gowns with floral details, perfectly chosen attire for Anne & Nick’s lush garden venue. The rest of Anne’s bridal party finished getting ready in a separate room onsite, joining her later, allowing for a more formal first look between Anne & Nick.
First Look
Not only did Anne & Nick have a first look with one another but they had intentional first looks with their friends and family as well. Their joyous wedding day was about their love, the people they love and who love them in return.
The most tender of moments was Anne & Nick’s first look with Anne’s grandparents. Anne’s grandfather’s mouth dropped open as he watched Anne walk down the stairs, her hand on the banister, and this moment is one I’ll remember vividly from their wedding day. His mouth stayed open as Nick followed Anne. At the bottom of the stairs there were hugs shared and high, happy emotions.
Friends & Family Portraits
Anne & Nick’s color palette was truly awesome. Paired with the natural greens and vibrant light at the estate, Anne & Nick’s photos showcase how extraordinary their romantic Philadelphia wedding day was. Soft blushes, bright white and green floral arrangements, and sparkly accents yielded photos that are timeless. A wonderful trend is mismatched bridesmaids dresses and Anne’s bridesmaids outdid themselves with their choices of dresses. No two dresses were alike. Viewed together, the aesthetic was classic and truly exquisite.
Ceremony
Anne’s mother walked her down the aisle with sweet kisses at the altar as her hand was passed to Nick. Her wedding dress, a crisp white, stood in stark contrast to the many shades of green and the floral arrangements that surrounded the couple as they stood and exchanged vows were simply marvelous. Friends and family piled in; no matter whose side they were on, everyone was there to celebrate the love of two people and their special day. Laughter and wide smiles ensued.
Cocktail Hour
After the ceremony, cocktail hour took place in the garden area with the old stone farmhouse as da backdrop. Guests signed the guest book with their hopes and well wishes to the newly married couple. The glass mailbox held cards from guests as they arrived at cocktail hour. Guests walked directly to the next part of the day’s festivities with ease. Passed hors d’oeuvres and a grazing table allowed for small bites to be enjoyed before the reception.
Golden Hour Portraits
Appleford Estate is beautiful any time of day, but the space transforms during golden hour to something that feels different. More magical than ever, time stands still for the people who slow down enough to witness the light shifting. Anne & Nick snuck away from their reception to spend a few quiet moments together traipsing through the gardens. They explored hand in hand, sharing kisses and those blissed out looks that come after a couple ties the knot and says I do.
Reception
There was dancing, a wealth of desserts, and speeches with toasts filled with emotion at Anne & Nick’s reception. Anne changed into a shorter dress that dazzled and other women tied up their long dresses so their legs could move and groove. Anne’s first dance was shared with her grandfather. The party that ensued was electric. The reception was made extra special because one of Nick’s groomsmen was in the live band, which everyone loved and thoroughly enjoyed. There’s something about live bands that really elevate a wedding experience to engaged guests at every moment.
Vendors
Venue: Appleford Estate
Catering: Serock Catering
Coordinating: Sheila at Beyond Blissful Events, LLC.
Photography: Anna Claire Photos, LLC.
Videography: Patrick Kelly Films
Band: Black Tie Stereo
Florist: Katie Mac Floral Designs
Hair Stylist: Something You Beauty
Makeup Artist: Shimmer & Spice
Dress: Pronovias
Suit: Indochino
Ready to plan your own romantic and colorful wedding?
Whether spring is your vibe or not, I’m here to help you know ease in your wedding planning process. Reach out to learn more about my process as your wedding photographer, and why your photographer plays such an enormous part in helping you feel your best during your wedding day! I want to know all the details of your love story.
Looking for more colorful and non-traditional wedding inspiration?
Take a look at Nicole & Tyler’s intimate and alternative spring wedding!
