At a recent networking event, we were asked by other wedding professionals some of our favorite venues to photograph. Both Ashley & Michelle answered with Appleford Estate, remembering weddings such as Christina & Pete’s. The meticulously manicured gardens, the historic stone building with a grandiose interior, and the endless opportunity for beautiful photos always have us excited for an Appleford wedding day. Megan & Conor’s Spring Appleford wedding was definitely one for the books! With so many memorable moments and elegant details, it was a joy to capture this special day.
Getting Ready for the Spring Appleford Wedding
Excited and ready to be a bride, Megan and her girls gathered for a few photos in their complimenting cream pajamas before getting dressed. Instead of the typical robe variations we often see our brides start the day in, Megan opted for a fun alternative with her feather trimmed white pjs and custom “Mrs. Dey” slippers. She took a quiet moment for herself and got a little emotional while reading a handwritten card from her husband-to-be.
With the rain beginning to fall outside, the girls waited until arriving at Appleford to get dressed for the day. Megan stepped into her simply elegant gown from La Bella Moda and added her Kelly & Katie heels, Big Diamond Importer engagement ring, and exquisite earrings. While the Marriott’s ample space provided the perfect place for hair & makeup, Appleford’s bridal suite decor was more aligned with the Victorian vibes of the day and was the sublime spot for capturing beautiful bridals. While Megan & Conor decided to go the traditional route of not seeing each other until the ceremony, she did have two fanatical first looks with her dad and bridesmaids. Pristinely prepped, the wait was on for Conor’s arrival to begin their Appleford wedding festivities!
Conor & his groomsmen had an easy-going morning hanging out at the Marriott. His sleek and minimal details kept with the classic theme of the day. Conor slipped on suspenders before his groomsmen helped with the bowtie and cufflinks. With the addition of his black-faced watch and shined shoes, he was almost ready to get married. He shed a tear or two while reading Megan’s letter and finished off with a toast to the day ahead. It was finally time to meet up with his bride for their Appleford wedding ceremony.
String Light Ceremony
When planning for a Spring Appleford wedding with a garden ceremony, April showers do bring May flowers, so it’s best to have backup plan. Although the rain kept the ceremony under cover, Appleford’s tented pavilion still provides an outdoor feel with the stone siding and clear walls. While Conor waited under an alluring arch of florals created by The Stem’s End, Megan and her father attained all the attention as they strode below the string lights and down the aisle. In a short and sweet ceremony officiated by the bride’s uncle, Megan & Conor exchanged vows and rings before sharing their first kiss as Mr. & Mrs. Dey!
Friends & Family
With a party totaling 17, plus our bride and groom, we got to work capturing Megan & Conor with their closest crew. Megan chose a simple sage color from Birdy Grey for her bridesmaids that paired perfectly with a Spring Appleford wedding. Conor & his groomsmen kept it classic with their clean black suits and bowties. After snapping a few photos with the wedding party all together, guests enjoyed a cool cocktail hour inside while we did some exploring of those grand gardens with Megan & Conor.
Spring Showers & Greenhouse Portraits
While the weather was not ideal for spending too much time in the garden, Megan & Conor braved the rain for a few portraits under umbrellas. Between the trees and sheer shrubs, the pair walked hand in hand through the garden paths. Once in the greenhouse, they kissed and cuddled between the blossoming blooms. The way Conor gazed at Megan the whole time made our jobs a breeze as we captured their love. The newlyweds took a minute to practice their first dance before being introduced as husband and wife.
Appleford Wedding Celebration
The John Serock Catering team did an amazing job flipping the room from ceremony to reception while guests enjoyed their libations in the historic house. The Stem’s End centerpieces dazzled just enough to complement the already awesome exterior space.
With all the guests seated at their tables, Megan & Conor waltzed through the doors and onto the dance floor. The moment they’ve been practicing for had finally come. With all eyes on them, the newlyweds performed a choreographed dance to “Hold You in my Arms” by Ray LaMontagne. You could tell how much they enjoyed spending the time together to practice, because every move was perfectly on point. We knew it was going to be a noteworthy night with EBE Talent’s Monte Carlo Band when the dance floor flooded with guests after the first dance.
While everyone was ready to party, there were still a few more formalities to get through before dancing the night away. Megan & Conor listened intently, laughing and looking to each other, while their loved ones sang their praises, told their funny stories, and shared well wishes. Michael Buble & Van Morrison sang over speakers as they each shared a special dance set with their parents. The Master’s Baker prepared a classic cake adorned with baby blue flowers for the newlyweds to cut. After enjoying dessert, the celebration continued to grow more and more lively as the night went on. Guests had so much fun dressing up in colorful wigs, bright tutus, and feathered boas while singing their hearts out. Even an impromptu limbo with someone’s belt broke out.
This was one of those nights you truly wish never ended! But, as it was ending for our team with the party still going strong, we had to break the gear back out to capture Conor & his mom dancing and singing up on the half wall surrounding the patio. What a way to end this amazing Spring Appleford wedding day!
Congratulations to the new Mr. & Mrs. Dey! We wish you a lifetime of fun and happiness!
These amazing vendors helped create the magic for Megan & Conor’s Spring Appleford wedding:
Photographer: Ashley Gerrity Photography | Getting Ready: Marriott West Philadelphia | Reception Venue: Appleford Estate | Florist: The Stem’s End | Entertainment: EBE Talent – Monte Carlo Band | Caterer: John Serock Catering | Cake: The Master’s Baker | Transportation: King Limousine | Videography: Ashley Gerrity Photography | Dress Boutique: La Bella Moda | Bride’s Shoes: Kelly & Katie | Wedding Rings: Big Diamond Importer & Fine Jewelry | Make up: Dev Esthetics | Hair: Autumn Butler
