Your Ultimate Guide To Everything Pennsylvania Weddings!
After years, you finally have that shiny ring on your finger! You are about to embark on the greatest adventure of all, and it starts out with a really amazing party. If you have been considering a Pennsylvania wedding, I’m here to help you out. As a Pittsburgh wedding photographer, I get the chance to go all across the state helping people have their perfect celebrations. Here is my ultimate guide for planning Pennsylvania weddings.
Everything You Need To Know For Planning Beautiful Pennsylvania Weddings
Pennsylvania Wedding History & Traditions
When it comes to history, there’s not a state on this map more iconic than Pennsylvania. This is where a lot of American traditions were born, and our weddings are no exception. Over the 19th and 20th centuries, Pennsylvania saw an influx of immigrants from countries such as Italy, Germany, Greece, Poland, Slovakia, and other parts of Europe. As they started to create new lives, they also kept some old traditions, many of which continue throughout weddings. Here are a few:
The Cookie Table: This one is maybe my favorite. Sweets were a major part of these immigrant communities, and they went a little wild during weddings. Once the Great Depression hit, families in Pittsburgh decided to collectively build a cookie table to spare the expense of a cake. The tradition continues to live on, giving different members of the family a way to support the couple while sharing their best-loved recipes!
The Bridal Dance: This West Pennsylvania tradition gives the guests a way to celebrate alongside the bride. You’ll take your place on the floor while attendants set up shop with aprons and shots. Guests will be free to line up, pay a dollar, take a shot, and dance with you. Once this is done, the guests will dance in a circle around you until your groom can come in and swoop you away.
Planning Your Pennsylvania Wedding
When You Should Have Your Pennsylvania Wedding & How to Pick Your Date
You will want to pick your date pretty early on in the planning process, but before you can, you need to decide whether you want an indoor or outdoor celebration. Pennsylvania tends to fully feel each season, delivering hot summers and snowy winters. If you are planning an indoor wedding, you can easily work around the weather. If not, I suggest going with a more temperate season. May and June tend to be perfect for people who prefer vivid spring colors, while September and October let you dip your toes into the gorgeous autumn time. Just know that this time will be considered “high season” for weddings. If you are intent on having your celebration during these months, book your vendors as early as possible since you’ll probably have some competition.
Pennsylvania Wedding Locations
Pennsylvania has pretty much every type of venue available, from secluded lodges amidst dense woods to refined venues in the middle of the city. Here are some ideas you might want to consider!
Historic barns: I love this choice because you get to combine the state’s legacy with the rustic yet trendy aesthetic. If this is your vibe, check out Rodale Institute Farm in Kutztown, Country Barn in Lancaster, or Ash Mill Farm in Doylestown.
Legendary Manors: We have so many homes in the state that combine centuries of history with luxurious accommodations. You can try Glen Foerd on the Delaware in Philly, Mansions on Fifth in Pittsburgh, or Cairnwood Estate in Bryn Athyn.
Lush Gardens: From estate courtyards to botanical gardens, we have it all. Try Fairmount Park Horticulture in Philadelphia, Pearl S. Buck Estate in Perkasie, or Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh.
Elegant Hotels: This option is a favorite for a reason. Hello, easy lodging, decadent food, and world-class amenities! You can check out the Cork Factory Hotel in Lancaster or the Philly Ritz-Carlton.
How to Get a Marriage License
Now, it’s time to get your license! You are able to apply for a PA wedding license at any state or county courthouse. You will both need to be there for the process. Here’s what you need to know:
Documents: You will need a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or a passport. You will also need to bring along your Social Security number.
Fee: This is going to depend on the county, but you can expect this to cost anywhere from $50-$100.
Waiting Period: You will need to wait at least 3 days after the application to tie the knot. Don’t put it off until the last minute!
Expiration: Your license will be valid for 60 days after issuance.
Things to Consider for Your Pennsylvania Wedding
Hiring a Pennsylvania Wedding Planner
I always highly encourage my local clients to book a wedding planner from Pennsylvania. Not only are they going to take all the stress out of the process, but they are also going to be crucial when it comes to booking highly exclusive vendors since they’ve taken the time to build up a professional relationship. Additionally, they will be the key to taking the wedding of your dreams and making it a reality. From helping you find your venue to designing the space, your planner will do it all!
Guest Count
You will want to figure out your guest count pretty early on. Once you know how many people you want to invite, you can find venues with your desired capacity. Additionally, this will determine your budget.
Other Costs
Before you can get too far in the planning process, you will want to create a budget. Be sure it is completely comprehensive. Yes, you’ll need to calculate your venue, your catering, and your entertainment, but you also need to consider factors like lodging, airline tickets, transportation, and activities once you arrive. If you could use a little help, most of the major wedding sites have budget advisors who let you look at what actual couples currently spend on weddings.
Hiring a Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer
The one thing I always suggest prioritizing in your budget is your wedding photographer. I know everyone says your wedding day will be a blur, and I can tell you from working with real couples that this is absolutely the case. Not only will your photographer be there to give you stylish and iconic couples’ portraits to frame in your home, but they will also make sure you never forget a moment.
When I start out with my couples, I give them the ability to choose how much coverage they want for their wedding days, and I let them add on things like rehearsal dinner pics and bridal shower sessions. My goal as a Pittsburgh wedding photographer is to help you capture every emotion leading up to your happily ever after. I also love working with my couples to give them creative direction while taking bright and joyous portraits. In the end, your photographer should be there to give you memories exactly the way you want to remember them.
Pennsylvania Weddings Are Always Truly Special Events
If you are planning your Pennsylvania wedding, I really hope this guide helps you get started! And if you do think I might be the photographer for you, I would love to have a conversation so you can know for sure. Send me a message today to find out more!
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