I had been anxiously awaiting Jen and Dave’s Springton Manor Farm wedding and definitely was not let down. As we drove up the beech and oak tree-lined drive, we saw cows, sheep and goats in the expansive pastures outside an enchanting restored barn. Once we arrived, we strolled around the estate’s gardens and meadows while waiting for the bride to arrive. The fenced fields, stone walls and wildflower meadows create a one-of-a-kind environment and I couldn’t wait to get started.
Jen, her bridesmaids and mom arrived and headed into the Manor House. Renovated and decorated faithful to the farm’s historic background, The Manor House easily balances its classic design with modern amenities. The interior is stunning with carved molding and bronze sconces. We journeyed upstairs to meet the girls; they were busily organizing themselves and steaming dresses. We said hello and grabbed Jen’s dress, shoes and veil. We photographed her floor length A-line dress in an arched doorway and the flowing layers of skirt looked gorgeous. We left the girls to their finishing touches of makeup and jewelry and went to find Dave. He and his groomsmen were on the other side of the house enjoying some spirits and getting dressed. We got a few portraits of Dave before having him open his card from Jen. He laughed when he opened the envelope because they had both given each other dog cards….funny because we later found out that they are both “crazy cat people.”
We headed back over to the girls where the bridesmaids were dressed in dark purple gowns and Jen was ready to get into her gown. The high neckline was covered in lace and tiny beading and the layers of her chiffon skirt looked perfect under her cathedral length veil. Jen’s bouquet from Blue Moon Florist featured an array of white flowers, including peonies, roses and sweet peas. A pin from Jen’s Nana was attached to the stems and was really just the perfect addition. After Jen’s portraits I headed outside to choose a location for the couple’s first look; this is where we met the crew from Chester Springs Video. This father daughter run company was great to work with throughout the evening. Once we got Dave into place under one of Springton Manor’s beautiful old trees, Jen made her way across the grass to him. The wedding party watched excitedly from the patio of the Manor as Jen and Dave saw each other. The smiles on their faces said it all. It is such a privilege for me to be part of these amazing moments. We joined the wedding party on the patio for photos before heading back to the grass for family photos. After we finished up family formals, we set off with Jen and Dave for some portraits. Springton Manor Farm’s historic and natural charm lends itself beautifully to photos. My favorite area was the field of wildflowers. Jen and Dave didn’t even mind going into the tall grass for me! I sent the couple into the house to hide as guests started to arrive.
While guests were arriving, Jen, Dave and their parents joined Rabbi Jon for the signing of the Ketubah. This is a traditional Jewish marriage contract that is signed just prior to the wedding ceremony. While the two families congratulated the couple, we set off to get ready for the ceremony. Jen and Dave were the first couple to get married in the gardens at the Manor House of Springton Manor Farm. Their ceremony took place under a rustic arbor and included the traditional wine ceremony and the breaking of the glass. Guests head out to the yard for cocktail hour with a bruschetta station and passed hors d’oeuvres from Queen of Hearts Catering. The bar was atop vintage wine barrels and Jen’s mom made the cutest centerpieces for the high top tables. I just loved the purple tulips and thought they were perfect for the ring shot. I also loved that there was cornhole, giant Jenga and Yahtzee set up in the lawn for guests to enjoy.
After cocktail hour, the guests made their way into the large tent where dinner would be served. I loved the wooden boxes filled with hydrangeas and roses for centerpieces. Guests took their seats and anxiously awaited the entrance of the wedding party. Parents, the bridal party and the bride and groom were met with roaring applause. Jen and Dave shared a sweet first dance followed by toasts. Jen’s parents welcomed everyone and then her sister and maid of honor was next. She joked about how they never thought Jen would find someone who loves cats as much as her, but Dave might be the first ever “crazy cat guy.” Lastly we heard from Dave’s childhood friend and best man who shared some fun stories from when they were little. The recurring theme throughout all the toasts was the what truly kind souls Jen and Dave are and how happy their family and friends are that they found each other. During dinner, Jen danced with her father and Dave with his mom. I stole the couple away briefly for a few more photos. We head down to the pastures and saw the cutest baby cows. I loved the tree lined road between the fenced in pastures and quickly learned that cows are not very cooperative when it comes to photos. When we got back to the tent it was time to cut the cake. Clay’s Bakery created a truly exquisite four-tiered cake with an abundance of flowers cascading down the side. At first I thought the flowers were real, but then realized that they were edible! With dinner completed and cake cut it was time to dance. DJ Michael Kane from Silver Sounds was center stage and quickly packed the dance floor. We finished our night with photos of Jen and Dave sitting by the fire pits.
Thank you to Jen and Dave for allowing me to capture your lovely Springton Manor Farm wedding. It was a pleasure spending the day with you and I wish you continued love for years to come.