Location: Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA
Setting: Ceremony – church, reception – garden
Wedding season: Summer
Number of guests: 200-230
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
Wedding theme/style: Garden-inspired, classic, whimsical.
Kimberly and Michael dreamed of a wedding that seamlessly combined the sophistication of a black-tie event with the laid-back vibes of a garden party. “We wanted the wedding to be fun! We went for a formal black tie event that feels like a backyard wedding – I love formal wear in a casual setting. Lots of flowers, candles, and music!” shared the bride.
The couple entrusted their special day to a talented photographer, April Raymond, whose skill brought their vision to life. Her mastery of depth in each photo enhanced the aesthetic appeal, capturing every line, texture, and gesture with exquisite clarity. The resulting images showcased the joyful spirit and detailed nuances of the celebration, making each photograph a work of art in its own right.
On their wedding day, Kimberly glowed in a sleek, strapless white gown. Michael complemented her perfectly with a white jacket paired with classic black trousers, finishing the look with a black bow tie and cufflinks. The bridesmaids’ floral green dresses beautifully captured the essence of the garden party theme, blending seamlessly into the day’s lush, natural setting.
Their first look took place at the historic Conestoga House & Gardens in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, an iconic venue celebrated for its expansive gardens filled with thousands of tropical and sub-tropical plants, providing a timeless and romantic backdrop for their special moment.
The ceremony took place at the Greek Orthodox church, surrounded by family and friends. After exchanging vows amid the church’s colorful murals and detailed woodwork, the joyful guests threw petals in the air as the couple departed in a vintage Alfa Romeo.
Kimberly and Michael came back to the lush surroundings of Conestoga Gardens. They shared laughter and affection, captured beautifully against the backdrop of the estate’s charming architecture and vibrant window boxes overflowing with red and white flowers. They enjoyed this private moment while guests were arriving to the venue.
“We wanted to make sure all of our guests knew how excited we were that they specifically came to celebrate our wedding with us,” the bride said. Their family and friends came from different states and countries to be there. The couple wrote personalized notes to each guest, sealed inside their seating card, thanking them for their attendance and sharing details on how their individual presence was so special to them.
During the cocktail hour, guests enjoyed a vibrant atmosphere under the shade of tall trees, complemented by live music. Kim and Michael brought a piece of their New York City life to the celebration. They introduced signature cocktails from their favorite bars, creating a personalized and memorable touch that resonated with the spirit of their first date. “We were able to acquire the recipes of a hand-selected cocktail from each establishment, alongside signage that featured matchbooks from each location,” recalled Kim.
The reception setting was elegantly designed, with tables adorned in detailed floral arrangements under a sprawling white tent. Soft lighting and vibrant greenery created a warm and inviting atmosphere for the evening festivities.
As guests found their seats, they were greeted with personalized menus tailored to the specific meal choices noted in their RSVPs and detailed wine pairings for each course. Each menu was artistically handwritten by a calligrapher. This attention to detail ensured that every guest felt uniquely appreciated.
The reception unfolded with lively speeches from guests and cake cutting, followed by the couple’s first dance. The dessert table offered additional treats, including seasonal tarts, ensuring something sweet for every taste.
As night fell, the atmosphere turned magical with guests lined up, holding sparklers that lit up the night, creating a stunning backdrop for the couple’s kiss, captured beautifully in the photos. The air was filled with joy and the rhythmic sounds of the live band, inviting everyone to dance the night away.
The festivities concluded with an afterparty at a local pizza bistro, where guests relished slices of pizza and continued the celebration in a more relaxed setting. This cozy gathering was the perfect way to wrap up the joyful and elaborate celebrations of the day.
PHOTOGRAPHER April Raymond | VIDEOGRAPHER Garrity Powers | VENUE Conestoga House & Gardens | COORDINATOR & FLORAL Kathy Monte | MUAH David O’Shell Studio | DRESSES Designer Loft Bridal, Paloma Blanca Bridal | BRIDESMAIDS‘ DRESSES Reformation | MENSWEAR Ralph Lauren | RINGS Tiffany & Co | CATERING The JDK Group | CAKE Cake and Cup Bake Shoppe | DESSERTS Barbaret | CALLIGRAPHER Jane Sperling Fairorth | BAND Bachelor Boys Band | RENTAL Caroline’s Rentals LLC, Lovebirds Vintage Rentals, Newtown Party Rentals
