Michelle and Mike are hilarious. They held their wedding at the Brandywine Manor House in Honeybrook, PA (about an hour west of Philadelphia). Sure, it was a little chilly and the wind got pretty awful, but these two looked amazing and the sky, well, you’ll see…
The day started off incredible. Huge puffy clouds set against fantastic blue skies. I love this hand-painted sign at the entrance to the manor.
The girls partied it up while getting ready in the bridal suite. Michelle herself had some pretty gorgeous accessories. Despite losing some blue heels just prior to the wedding day, Michelle had a pair of adorable ivory flats, some great jewelry (something borrowed), and a hair clip that she wore for the reception (from Etsy, of course!). Her Casablanca lace gown fit her perfectly.
I was gaga over the florals by Fleur De Lis out of Paoli, PA, especially the acorn-adorned boutonnieres. Seriously, how gorgeous are these bouquets with dahlias, eucalyptus leaves, berries, hydrangeas, freesia, and more I didn’t even recognize. Michelle’s bouquet was especially meaningful – it was created out of a mix of white flowers and her mother’s own silk bouquet from her wedding day (something old). How lovely is that?
We took the girls’ pictures and Michelle basked in the last moment’s of the day’s sun before we got overcast (but really beautiful) skies. She is such a classically gorgeous bride. Those incredible blue eyes, dark hair, and light skin…
The ceremony was held on the grounds out by the lake. Brandywine Manor House is so well maintained. It looked phenomenal. Yellow, green, and orange trees surrounded us. The ceremony included musicians, singing, a hands blessing, unity candle and breaking of the glass.
We used the last of our light to take some family photographs and then wandered off with Michelle and Mike for pictures of just the two of them while the guests headed into the tent for the cocktail hour. I don’t think I need to say that the sky was freaking amazing. Breathtaking.
The reception rocked. The tent has great swaths of fabric covering the ceiling, chandeliers, twinkle lights, and paper lanterns. Margaux from Fleur de Lis created a beautiful garland for the chandelier above the dance floor as well as the classy centerpieces and sign for Michelle and Mike. Tables were named after all of the national parks that they have visited over the years. And name cards were displayed on small pieces of wood. There were so many little details that made this wedding fantastic.
The two danced their first song to Second Vision‘s rendition of Steve Earle’s “Sparkle & Shine”.
Triple Fresh provided the catering and even whipped up some potato pancakes in acknowledgment of the couple’s Eastern European heritage.
The guests were a blast. Trust me when I tell you that Mike’s buddies have some moves! And don’t mess with Michelle’s specialty, “The Shower”. The group was definitely appreciative that the wedding didn’t fall on a Phillies game night.
In addition to the cake by Henning’s Market, guests were treated to hot cider, caramel covered apples, and a dessert bar.
It was a fantastic day. Michelle and Mike exited the scene in an orange hotrod named “Wild Bill”. Yeah, they’re that awesome.
Michelle and Mike, thank you for everything! All the best on your Australian honeymoon and what is sure to be a loving, fun life together!
My baby sparkle and shine
Sparkle and shine
Sparkle and shine
My baby sparkle and shine
And I can’t believe she’s mine
~ Steve Earle, “Sparkle & Shine”
