An Elegant Rustic Wedding at the Stoltzfus Homestead and Gardens

John Malloy Photography captured the beautiful wedding of Meghan and Tyler, and we love everything he had to share about their amazing day…

“It was the moment Tyler had been waiting for. He could sense her presence coming up behind him as he felt his heart beating out of his chest. He could hardly wait to see his bride-to-be. As he turned around, his breath was completely taken away. Meghan was absolutely stunning. All Tyler could think was, “Wow, how in the world did I get so lucky?” As soon as they made eye contact, his nervousness disappeared and she was all he could see. The moment they shared was pure joy and happiness and felt like they were the only two people on earth. He was in awe of how incredible Meghan looked and was so thankful to have a few minutes to focus completely on her. It was a moment Tyler will never forget.

The moment was equally special to Meghan. She said that as she walked toward Tyler in the courtyard, her heart was also pounding. She was so eager to see him. When he finally turned around to look at her, her heart had never felt so happy! He was so handsome and she couldn’t wait to marry the love of her life. It melted her heart that Tyler cried when he first saw her, and just being with him made all of her nerves disappear.

From Meghan’s perspective, the whole day was simply amazing. It began with the ladies getting their hair and makeup done at Darla’s Hair Care and Spa. They were spoiled at the salon with a delicious breakfast and mimosas. After that, they headed to Stoltzfus Homestead and Gardens to get dressed. There was so much happiness in the bridal suite, with music playing and lots of laughter. Meanwhile, the guys were in the groom’s room, getting dressed. We were able to get some awesome “getting ready” shots of the whole bridal party. Some of the best were of the bridesmaids helping Meghan get ready and of the groomsmen’s watches and socks! The most sentimental moment was the “first look” between Meghan and her dad. It was so sweet to see the love and adoration in her father’s eyes. Meghan’s mother passed away a few years ago, and she wanted to be sure to honor her on this most special day. Her mother’s wedding photo was attached to her bouquet, and she set up a memory display in her honor. She also kept one seat empty on the front row during the ceremony with flowers and a commemorative sign. It was a beautiful tribute to lady who was taken too soon, but never forgotten. I’m so thankful I got to see the love Meghan had for her mother, and also the support of her family and friends.

After Tyler and Meghan’s emotional and touching first look, we took some bridal party photos and then they separated while the guests arrived. It was overwhelming for them to see their family and friends come to celebrate with them. With grateful hearts, they prepared to promise each other forever, both of them pondering all they were thankful for.

The ceremony was in the Tobacco Barn, an open air, beautifully restored barn with so much dreamy gorgeous light. It was perfectly decorated with an abundance of flower arrangements. {One of Meghan’s favorite things about her wedding day was the amazing floral creations by Pearls and Petals Designs.} As the barn doors opened, and Meghan’s dad began to walk her down the aisle, she fought back the tears as she contemplated how happy she was to be marrying a man as kind, compassionate and loving as Tyler. He was having his own reflections, thinking how excited and lucky he was to finally be promising forever to the love of his life. From the expression on his face, you wouldn’t have known he’d already seen his bride. He was awestruck once again. Both Tyler and Meghan had written their vows, and knew that each other’s words were genuine and heartfelt. When they were announced as man and wife, it was the moment they had dreamed of for so long. They both were so proud to standing beside the other, and hardly left each other’s side the whole evening.

The receptions at Stoltzfus are always a huge hit. With so many things to do, and places to sit or walk, no one gets bored or even wants to leave. As usual, the Grand Barn looked amazing. After stealing the couple away a few times, an amazing dinner and lots of fun dancing, the couple ended the night with a sparkler exit. It was so beautiful under the night sky and the perfect ending to a perfect day!”

Vendors / Photography – John Malloy Photography / Event Planner and Venue – Stoltzfus Homestead and Gardens / Florals –Pearls and Petals Designs / Bakery – Bird-in-Hand Bakery / Caterer – Yoder’s Catering / Dress Store – Claire’s Fashions and David’s Bridal / Veils and Headpieces – Giselle Bridal / Hair Stylist – Darla’s Hair Care and Spa / DJ – Portable Soundz