Margaret and Julian were married at home—on the quiet, familiar grounds of offbeat Philadelphia wedding venue The Woodlands. The couple serves as caretakers and spend their days tending to the historic landscape.
I originally met the marriers last year at Niki and Grant’s wedding at The Woodlands. We got to know each other better during their winter engagement session, where they guided me to their favorite spots at The Woodlands. As a heads up for those looking to have photos at The Woodlands, the venue requires a signed photography permit and certificate of insurance for all commercial and personal sessions.
Offbeat Philadelphia wedding venue
If you’re looking for an offbeat or unconventional wedding venue, I can’t recommend The Woodlands enough. Their main point of contact for events is Hann, who is an absolute pleasure to work alongside. The alternative style cemetery venue provides historic vibes, with blooms changing the aesthetics of the arboretum’s season, making every wedding feel unique.
I’m often asked for Philadelphia wedding venue recommendations and The Woodlands is always on the top of my list. I really appreciate their dedication to accessibility and their commitment to the community through acts of care. Their Grave Gardener volunteer gardening group, in particular, is so thoughtful and intentional. The space is always looking for ways to beautify the space and share a unique aspect of The Woodland’s history.
Historic Philadelphia wedding ceremony
Margaret and Julian’s ceremony took place beside the stables, surrounded by the textures and stories they know so well. I couldn’t stop admiring Margaret’s two celestial veils. The blue veil in particular took my breath away when I saw it draped over their moon-shaped bench backdrop (which was also incredible). Julian’s gold brooches and custom gold pins for his groomsmen’s ties were another lovely detail.
Margaret hand-painted so many beautiful elements, including a map with milestone dates marked throughout their time in Philadelphia as a couple. She also painted a card box, featuring an illustration of The Woodlands. Handcut paper star garland was strewn about for social hour and their reception, which added to the celestial wedding theme.
Just beyond the mansion, the yellow ginkgo tree had reached its peak bloom, its golden leaves marking the moment they intentionally planned their wedding around. It felt like the land was celebrating with them—soft, bright, and perfectly timed for a love rooted right here.
I can’t recommend visiting The Woodlands enough, whether you’re a local looking for a new spot to get some fresh air or someone looking for a cool, outdoor wedding venue in Philadelphia that won’t break the bank.
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