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Writer's pictureAndi Schilawski

The 5 Best Estate Wedding Venues Around Philly


 

Maybe I am a little biased, but I have to say that the Philly area has some incredible venues. From the views of the city to the green spaces there are so many options, from a more traditional to a modern and versatile venue, I love seeing where my couples are looking to tour and book and helping them find the best place for their needs.

I am not sure if wedding planners in every city can say this, but there is ALWAYS a venue that matches my couple’s vision and brings them joy.


Over the years, I have had the honor to work in dozens of venues and restaurants and here are just some of my favorites Estate Wedding Venues (in no particular order).


 

1. The Highlands Mansion

This 1796 mansion sits on 44 acres of pure beauty and was previously owned by Anthony

Morris, a Philly politician and merchant. The grounds are stunning and often overlooked. In

total the site has nine buildings which offer more than enough photo spots, and the best

news is they only do one event a day so you, your partner and family and friends have it all

to yourselves. With the venue only 17 miles from Philadelphia, the Georgian style mansion is

easily accessible for out of town guests who stay in the city and can accommodate

weddings up to 150 guests. Set up a stunning tent in their back lawn and celebrate with cocktails around one of their beautiful gardens.

Photos by Carly Landolt Photography




2. Tyler Gardens

Tyler Gardens is run by Open Aire Affairs and one of my favorite Bucks County venues. The

four-tier gardens were constructed by George F. and Stella Elkins Tyler with inspiration from

French and Italian gardens abroad. The team at Open Aire Affairs works with each couple to

create a customized package including the tent rental, patio furniture and a fire pit. The

big tent allows for a large guest count, and the venue has many options for where to

hold your ceremony and cocktail hour.


First photo by Du Soleil Photography | All others by Samantha Jay Photography



3. Appleford

This Main Line estate is such a beautiful property with pretty gardens. The estate was

originally part of a land grant from William Penn and now is an arboretum and bird

sanctuary. When you rent the space, you have access to the inside of the home, tented

terrace and the full 24 acre property. With its vast acreage, couples have multiple areas to

hold their ceremony and cocktail hour along with countless photo opportunities for

portraits. This Villanova property also accommodates larger weddings of up to 200 guests.

Photos by Ashley Gerrity Photography



4. Glen Foerd

Located right on the Delaware River, the view is unmatched by other venues in the area. It

has a breathtaking mansion and absolutely gorgeous grounds. The venue also only does one

event a day and can hold up to 300 guests in its fully customizable Riverside Pavilion. Jamie

Hollander Catering and Events is the exclusive caterer and will ensure you and your guests

are well fed all night long. Everytime we work at this stunning place, we feel like we are somewhere by the ocean!

Photos by Peaberry Photography


5. WINTERTHUR MUSEUM

Ok, I know Winterthur is technically not in Philadelphia but it is really not a bad drive from the city, with only a 45 minute drive from the city. Nestled in the picturesque Brandywine Valley, Winterthur Museum & Country Estate sits amidst nearly 1,000 acres of rolling meadows, woodlands and a dazzling 60-acre garden. Imagine the backdrop of your event is the magnificent former mansion of Henry Francis du Pont. The spaces can accommodate celebrations of up to 350 guests. Need more space? Place a tent in their Clenny Run Lawn and invite up to 600 guests!


Photos source: Google


 

From the city to the suburbs and museums to mansions, there is such a wide range of places to hold

your big day around Philadelphia with new venues opening every season. Most venues have a large

variety of spaces and flexibility for you to make your event uniquely yours.


The only question is which one is perfect for your wedding?


Cheers!

Andi

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