Even though Shannon and Nick grew up only a few miles from each other, they didn't meet until just a few years ago. The two were set up by one of Shannon's co-worker's daughter one day, and met for the first time on a blind date. They ended up clicking... talking, laughing and sharing stories all evening long. On their second date, Nick took Shannon four-wheeling and Shannon knew right away, in her words, that "this was something to hold on to (Literally, you don't want to fly off the back of a four-wheeler)"!
A year into their relationship, Nick was ready and excited to propose to the love of his life. And what better place than at Shannon's favorite place of all, the charming beach town of Sea Isle City, New Jersey? With a friend of Shannon's (and future bridesmaid) hiding in the dunes, ready to capture the perfect moment on film, Nick asked Shannon to be his wife and presented her with her dear late grandmother's engagement ring. And of course, she said 'yes'! Shannon's family and a best friend were back at the beach house waiting to celebrate with the couple!
Everything on this wedding day took place at the beautiful Allenberry Resort in Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania. The resort is so picturesque with its tree lined drive, lush green fields and lovely stream views. What a rustic and romantic setting for a wonderful wedding.
Shannon and her bridal party got ready in the stone mansion at their venue. As they dressed and prepared for the day, the girls all enjoyed a bottle of champagne to celebrate this special occasion! And we saw for the first time, Shannon's enchanting floral bouquet with its fantastic burgundy flowers and deep green eucalyptus from Sarah's Floral Designs.
Then, Shannon's mother helped her dress into her gown. Her beautiful wedding dress featured cap sleeves, a glittering beaded lace bodice and a full and flowing A-line skirt. Shannon's updo featured romantic braids and was fastened in a loose and wispy bun with lovely flowers. And her amazing Badgley Mischka shoes provided that 'something blue' for the day. She looked absolutely gorgeous!
Nick looked so handsome wearing a wonderful navy blue suit and a contrasting burgundy tie, coordinating beautifully with Shannon's bouquet and with her bridal party in their long, mismatched burgundy gowns.
After they were all dressed and ready, Shannon and Nick met for a first look outside along the garden path at Allenberry Resort. Nick's laughter was so contagious as he saw his bride for the first time that day! They held hands and kissed before taking a stroll together by the stream.
All of their photos took place on the grounds of the resort and we were so delighted to film alongside Earthmark Photography on this beautiful day. Be sure check out a few of their wonderful photos from Shannon and Nick's day on their Facebook page!
Shannon and Nick were married in a Catholic ceremony earlier, so during their outdoor ceremony at Allenberry, the two reaffirmed their vows to one another, reading vows they personally wrote. During their ceremony, they also participated in the ancient Celtic tradition of hand-fasting, where strands of fabric or "chords" are wrapped around the couple's hands and tied into a knot.
The reception that followed was held under an enormous white tent on property. Shannon and Nick kicked off the celebration with a touching first dance, followed by Shannon's father's welcome speech to all the guests. Then, we were all treated to fantastic toasts from Shannon's two maid/matrons of honor and from the two best men, Nick's brothers. We loved how Shannon's matron of honor, Caitlin, reminded the two to be sure to periodically take time to look around, acknowledge and be proud of the life they're building together... excellent advice for newlyweds.
Shannon and Nick cut and enjoyed their lovely homemade cake, then shared beautiful dances with their parents. Afterwards, lively dancing continued all night as DJ Chris Garrett from Mixed Up Productions rocked the house! We understand that before the evening was over, Shannon even took a turn behind the DJ booth!
What a wonderful wedding this was at such a gorgeous, romantic venue. Congratulations to Shannon and Nick and thank you for letting us share in your special day! We're wishing you both all the best!
Photographer: Earthmark Photography - Gettysburg, PA
Floral Design: Sarah's Floral Designs - Sarah Klunk - Carlisle, PA
Hair Stylist: Steele Salon - Hershey, PA
Makeup Artist: Steele Salon - Hershey, PA
Wedding Dress: Essense of Australia
Bridal Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Entertainment: Mixed Up Productions - DJ Chris Garrett - Harrisburg, PA
Wedding Coordinator: The JDK Group - Kelsey Ivan - Camp Hill, PA
Rentals: Swoon Vintage Rentals - Hummelstown, PA
Officiant: Andrew Weigel
Venue: Allenberry Resort - Boiling Springs, PA