Shelley & Troy- John James Audubon Center Wedding

Shelley and Troy’s John James Audubon Center Wedding at Mill Grove was truly a perfect fall wedding. It took place on November 19th. As we approached the day, I was planning for a chilly wedding with bare trees. Pennsylvania surprised us this year, saving gorgeous yellow leaves and mild temperatures for late fall.

The John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove is truly a spectacular venue. Once the home of the famed conservationist, this estate features 175 acres of rolling hills and trails. The venue itself features beautiful beams and stone work.

Shelley and Troy decided to nix the formalities. They skipped the “getting ready” portion of photos. We started our time together, along with videographer Michael from Envision Video Productions, at their first look under an amazing maple tree. After they spent a few moments together, we took the opportunity to walk the grounds for some portraits. The weather really was perfect and the foliage didn’t disappoint.

Shelley and Troy then took some time for photos with their families. The bridal party was made up by their children. We took photos of them together with their kids and Shelley’s parents.

The ceremony took place in a rustic barn. The barn was lit by candles and decorated with dried hydrangeas from Shelley’s garden. The ceremony was short and sweet. In the middle of the ceremony, the windows started to rattle. A storm was rolling in and the old barn was a little noisy but no one seemed to care. The ceremony was all the more intimate with Shelley and Troy’s children by their sides.

After the ceremony, guests were invited to cocktail hour in the barn. They enjoyed apple cider mimosas and a gorgeous charcuterie spread on farmhouse tables. Oysters were shucked in the corner as everyone mingled. Toasts by Shelley’s daughter and Troy’s son had everyone laughing before heading to the reception.

The reception space was all dressed up to carry on the rustic feel of the day. The flowers and decor were beautifully done by Heidi Sharkey. Music by the Love 77 band from Ebe Events and Entertainment was blaring as guests ran in the building to get away from the crazy winds. Shelley and Troy enjoyed their first dance. Shelley danced with her dad and Troy danced with his daughter. It was all very sweet. After first dances, toasts, and dinner by Jeffrey A Miller, the Love 77 band had everyone dancing. They were truly fantastic! I wish Shelley and Troy all the best. I cannot thank them enough for choosing me to capture their amazing day.

James