Ahead of their Excelsior Lancaster wedding day, I first met Chelsea and Patrick during their engagement session in Philadelphia. It was an evening filled with laughter, love, and a deep connection that made every photo a joy to capture. Chelsea’s infectious smile and Patrick’s charming demeanor created a dynamic that was both fun and romantic. As we wandered through some of their favorite spots, it was clear that these two were meant for each other.
The Magic of an Excelsior Lancaster Wedding
Chelsea and Patrick chose Excelsior in Lancaster, PA, as their wedding venue, and I couldn’t love a venue more. Excelsior is simply like no other. The inspired renovations captured the building’s rich history while adding a modern and eclectic vibe that is truly magical.
The venue’s airy interior and two open-air green spaces make it an unparalleled location for a wedding. Each space within Excelsior is uniquely different yet beautifully connected. It creates a sophisticated atmosphere that flows seamlessly from one area to the next. The Entrance and Lobby on the first floor tie all these unique spaces together with modern design features, ensuring a cohesive and elegant experience for guests.
A Photographer’s Dream Venue
Excelsior is, without a doubt, one of my all-time favorite spaces to capture a wedding. The combination of historic charm and modern design elements provides an endless array of stunning backdrops for photographs. The intricate details, the grand rooms, and the beautiful green spaces make it a photographer’s dream. Every corner of Excelsior offers a new opportunity for creativity, and it’s always a pleasure to work in such an inspiring environment.
Spirit of the Day
Chelsea and Patrick made the day even more fun with their easygoing and relaxed portraits and group shots. From amazing flower-filled chaise lounges for bridal portraits to popping champagne in the streets, capturing so many unique moments was a pleasure.
One of the highlights of Chelsea and Patrick’s wedding day was the playful Smirnoff Ice challenge that the couple sprung on the groomsmen. Seeing the groomsmen’s reactions as they were “iced” by the bride and groom was hilarious and spoke to the fun and laid-back atmosphere of the day. Moments like these are what make weddings so memorable. They showcase the couple’s personality and add a touch of spontaneity and joy to the celebration.
A Unique Ceremony
When it was time for the big moment, we gathered in the courtyard for the ceremony, a space defined by exposed beams and a beautiful wall of greenery. In a fun twist, Chelsea and Patrick chose to face their guests during the ceremony, creating a more intimate and engaging experience for everyone in attendance. The setting was perfect, and the ‘I dos’ were made with such excitement for this next chapter in their lives.
Elegant and Modern Decor
The wedding decor within Excelsior was a beautiful blend of classic and modern elements. Lush greenery adorned the spaces, complemented by warmly contrasting florals ranging from light blush to terracotta to burgundy. The bridesmaids looked stunning in pale neutral dresses, while the groomsmen were dapper in black tuxes.
Roses spilled from every corner, adding a touch of timeless elegance to the decor. The tables were adorned with bud vases in mixed vintage glass, creating a charming and sophisticated ambiance. A hanging floral installation over the couple’s long farm table added a dramatic and romantic touch, making their seating area a focal point for a reception filled with laughter and a few tears.
Dinner and Dancing: A Perfect Transition
One of the things I love most about Excelsior is the seamless transition from a beautiful dinner upstairs to a lively dance party downstairs. You can see this in Laura and Clint’s Wedding here, and Chelsea and Patrick’s wedding was no exception. After a delicious and elegantly presented dinner, guests moved downstairs to continue the celebration with dancing and festivities. The use of space at Excelsior is unmatched, providing distinct areas for different parts of the celebration while maintaining a cohesive and enjoyable flow throughout the event.
I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Chelsea and Patrick for inviting me to be a part of their incredible day. It was an honor to capture the love, joy, and fun surrounding their wedding. Every moment, from the touching ceremony to the lively dance party, was a testament to their strong bonds with their family and friends. Thank you, Chelsea and Patrick, for allowing me to be a part of your Excelsior Lancaster wedding. It was truly a fantastic experience, and I wish you both a lifetime of happiness and love.
THANK YOU TO THE VENDORS!
Photography Sage Design + Co | Event Planning Simple Soiree | Venue Excelsior | Florist Petals with Style | Catering Signature on King | Videography Zimmerman Videography | DJ 3 West Productions | Beauty Hair and Makeup by Nikki D |. Lighting + Design Shumaker PDT | Rentals Caroline’s Rentals | Signage Line and Letter