Annalyse and Brett’s Parque Ridley Creek State Park wedding was nothing short of a spring fairytale. Inspired by romantic garden party vibes and styled to perfection, their day felt both magical and meaningful in every detail. From the castle-like venue to the intentional timeline, this wedding was a dream to photograph, and truly one of my favorites to date.
This Philadelphia PA venue is STUNNING, I can’t emphasize that enough. Located in the middle of a state park 45 minutes outside of Philly, this historic venue looks like it belongs in the Scottish countryside. If you’re looking for a wedding venue that gives romantic, magical fairytale vibes – look no further! The building itself looks like a stone castle and the grounds are abundant in photo op locations. Surrounded by forest and stone walls combined with manicured gardens, Parque is a storybook venue. There are no ugly corners, which means every inch of this place is a photographer’s dream.
From the very beginning, Annalyse and Brett were a gem of a couple. Their style was effortlessly chic, with thoughtful details and fashion choices that perfectly matched the aesthetic they envisioned. They also added film coverage to their package—a huge part of my creative process and something that brought extra variety and depth to their gallery. I also had a second shooter with me for this one, which helped us capture more angles and moments as the day unfolded. Between the timeline, the couple, and the energy of their people, this was one of those days where everything just clicked.
I often encourage my couples to get the formal portraits out of the way, specifically before the ceremony. We started with first looks (which always helps ease nerves, just as a helpful little tip for future couples!) and private vows. I stepped back and photographed from afar to allow them the space to speak freely for this incredibly intimate moment. I love how the photos turned out! Afterwards, we knocked out bridal portraits so they were able to enjoy cocktail hour with their guests. This is sincerely where the magic happens! When I’m able to blend in with guests and couples can be fully present, they forget about the camera and the most beautiful candid moments unfold.
Annalyse and Brett’s package included 10 hours of photo coverage, which was perfect for multiple reasons. First and foremost, they were able to feel less rushed and, in turn, less stressed (apart from totally normal wedding day jitters) because the timeline was a little less jam-packed. Instead, we were able to take our time with photos and the schedule in general, which enabled me to do some of my best documentary work to date and they were able to enjoy their day. It takes an incredible team to pull off a day like this, and the vendors behind Annalyse and Brett’s wedding truly delivered:
Photo: Rachel Bond Photo
Venue: Parque Ridley Creek
Caterer: Peach Tree Catering
Dress: Lovely Bride and Saint Bridal Couture
Cake: Bake With Miii
Florist: Flower Clvb
Entertainment: 3 West Productions
Hair: Bardot Bridal Hair
Makeup: The Bug Beauty
Rentals: Lilac and Lace Co. and Party Rental Ltd.
If you’re dreaming of wedding photos that feel like a punch of nostalgia, you’re in the right place. Hey, I’m Rachel, a PA based wedding photographer here to capture your legacy, the way you really lived it. Whether you’re planning a fairytale castle wedding ceremony or a barefoot elopement in the woods, I’m ready to be your ride-or-die photographer who makes sure no moment slips through the cracks. Ready to make some wildly human, deeply you memories together? Check out my pricing + investment details here and head this way to get in touch and lock in your date.