Elevated, Moody Garden Party Wedding at Succop Nature Park

Wedding

Ellie + Shane’s sweet summer garden party was nothing short of incredible. From the first time I chatted with them, I knew their aesthetic game would be UNMATCHED. Combine that with the lush August greens + gorgeous manor at Succop Nature Park, bolo ties, dappled light, tear-jerker vows, a funky first dance, Super 8, 35mm film photos, and a dance floor that had every guest on their feet – I’d say their day was unforgettable.

I got to hang out with E + S the night before at their rehearsal dinner, taking place at the (surprisingly huge) Narcisi Winery in Gibsonia. I love covering rehearsal dinners because I get to meet all the most important people in your wedding, plus all the buzz + excitement in the air is electrifying! I took my point and shoot camera with me to grab some quick candids and they ended up being my favorites from the night! Live music, slightly chilly summer sunset air, and expansive greenery of the winery was the perfect backdrop for the night before.

The couple began their wedding day getting ready in the historic Marcraig House, a manor from the 1830s at the park that brought an elevated yet vintage vibe. Although, just a warning – the house has no AC, so prepare to sweat if you’re planning on a summer wedding. Both Ellie + Shane had a few solo portraits inside as well, because…well, look at it!!! I love this place!

I scouted the grounds for a first look location and found a concealed patio with the most beautiful dappled light. Traditionally, this isn’t really the ‘perfect’ lighting for a photo, but the high contrast light and shadow visually intensified the emotions of the moment. My second and I let them share a quiet moment together, and then took them around the park for some portraits! Ellie requested that we visited the park’s greenhouse, which made for some seriously cool results. Afterwards, we finished family + wedding party photos just in time for the ceremony!

While we were doing portraits, Shane mentioned that he felt way more comfortable taking photos than expected because my second and I had a good banter going. I think he expected us to stand silently in the corner and make it awkward – I can safely say that’s not my approach LOL.

E + S’s ceremony took place in front of Succop’s famous willow tree, and I was blown away by how gorgeous and picturesque it was. The late afternoon light created a dreamy haze all around. Paired with stunning moody mauve florals by Wild Finch Flowers and vintage furniture, the moment was magical. They both exchanged heartfelt + perfectly goofy vows – there wasn’t a dry eye in the park!

Guests enjoyed a twinkly, romantic reception under the park’s event pavilion. The string lights, candles, and vintage gold mirror touches created such an ethereal vibe. After toasts, cutting the cake (made by Ellie’s sister!), and dinner, E + S shared their first dance. This was the most fun first dance I’ve ever seen – an upbeat and sweet routine to “Fever” by Just Friends. I had never heard of this song or band before, but it’s a BOP. Guests joined the dance floor for a night packed with slappers and bangers straight out of college nights in 2015. Ellie + Shane had a day that was 100% them, and I was so happy to be a part of it!