When Olivia and Dillon began planning their wedding, they knew they did not want a traditional, sterile venue. Instead, they looked to a location that had already anchored their lives and relationship for years: a cherished piece of family land that had belonged to Olivia’s family for more than two decades.
Long before an engagement ring was ever discussed, the couple sat outside on the property with family during an ordinary afternoon, simply enjoying each other’s company as boyfriend and girlfriend. In a spontaneous moment of romantic clarity, Olivia blurted out, “I want to get married out here someday.” Years later, that casual dream blossomed into a reality, transforming the familiar family estate into a breathtaking, immersive wedding venue that honored both their past and their future.
For Olivia, an interior designer, the project offered a unique opportunity to express herself creatively. She wanted to elevate the space into something completely new, ensuring guests felt as though they were stepping into another world—a lush environment filled with rich textures, abundant florals, and a striking combination of two of her favorite colors: pink and green. At the same time, it was crucial that the natural beauty of the land, which held so many memories of holidays, family gatherings, and childhood moments, was allowed to shine through. Seeing a vision she had imagined years earlier come to life in a place so deeply woven into her family’s story made the celebration profoundly meaningful, marking a brand-new chapter in a setting already brimming with love.
A Feast for the Senses: Exceptional Food and Drink
The culinary experience of the evening was designed to impress, featuring catered selections by The Cork that offered guests a choice of perfectly prepared filet, halibut, or chicken, accompanied by delicate broccolini and creamy whipped potatoes.
Before the main course, an elaborate cocktail hour set an elevated tone with an array of hors d’oeuvres. Guests grazed on Seared Ahi Tuna Wonton Crisps, Goat Cheese Tartlets, compressed watermelon skewers, a lavish seafood display, and fresh vegetable crudité. Among the standout features of the cocktail hour was a dedicated oyster shucker serving fresh oysters directly to attendees. Because oysters rank high among the couple’s favorite foods to enjoy together, incorporating them into the wedding day was non-negotiable.
The beverage menu was equally personalized, highlighting signature cocktails tailored to the couple’s distinct tastes. Dillon opted for a classic Rittenhouse Manhattan, while Olivia selected a refreshing Hugo Spritz. In addition to the main bar and signature drinks, Dillon curated a special bourbon bar featuring a selection of his favorite top-shelf bourbons. As a true bourbon connoisseur, he delighted in sharing something he loves so much with the people closest to him, making the dedicated station an undeniable hit throughout the evening.
Lush Florals and Thoughtful Design Details
Florals served as one of the most vital elements of the entire day for Olivia, setting the romantic, garden-inspired aesthetic. Brought to life by Bailey and the talented team at Molly Taylor & Co., the design featured an abundance of gorgeous hydrangeas alongside carefully curated layers of texture and color, transforming the family property into a breathtaking floral sanctuary.
Cohesion and personal touches extended far beyond the blooms. The couple’s stationery and signage were brought to life by Jodi of Plume and Paper. From the invitation suite and ceremony programs to the custom bar menus and a stunning escort wall, every single detail received meticulous attention. One of Olivia’s favorite functional details of the design was the set of acrylic name cards displayed on the escort wall, which doubled as clever keepsakes that guests could take home at the end of the night.
The couple’s beloved golden retriever, Uno, also played a starring role in the celebration. As their baby and a central figure in their daily lives, incorporating him into the wedding in subtle yet meaningful ways was essential. Uno’s presence was woven throughout the paper goods in the sweetest ways, appearing on the ceremony programs, custom matchbooks, and cocktail napkins that featured a charming illustration of him posing in front of the iconic willow tree on the property.
Family involvement reached deep into the details of the day, highlighted by a sentimental creation crafted entirely by hand. Olivia’s mom needlepointed custom "Bride" and "Groom" chair sashes for the newlyweds. Countless thoughtful gestures marked her contribution to the wedding, but these handmade sashes stood out as a beloved keepsake that the couple will retain forever as a tangible reminder of the day and the maternal love poured into its creation.
Sweet Endings and Late-Night Treats
The wedding cake was commissioned from one of the couple’s favorite local sweet shops, Ye Ole Sweet Shoppe. The beautiful confection featured a classic design subtly accented with fresh florals to introduce a touch of color that tied into the overarching garden theme.
As the dancing continued late into the evening, Midnight Olive Catering delivered a delightful surprise: The Strolling Cannoli. A team member roamed the dance floor offering guests freshly filled cannolis accompanied by a customizable selection of toppings. Because cannolis represent a shared favorite dessert for Dillon and Olivia, serving them as a late-night treat provided a fun, interactive, and memorable way to cap off the celebration.
