Photographing the wedding of a fellow vendor is quite possibly the biggest honor of my career. Not to mention, another extremely talented wedding photographer’s wedding! Lauren (Lauren E. Bliss Photography) has been one of my longtime wedding industry friends, networking event buddies, and photography inspirations. Her vibrant personality and boundless creativity fully translated to her impeccably executed wedding day that I had the privilege to photograph in November. Let’s dive into Lauren and Ben’s gorgeous November wedding at Excelsior in Lancaster!
![Bride wearing white dress with floral appliqués and cap sleeves and groom in emerald green dinner jacket pose together in front of distressed cement wall at Excelsior wedding venue in Lancaster PA](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0375-682x1024.jpg)
![Groom in emerald green dinner jacket dips his bride who is wearing a white dress with floral appliqués and cap sleeves in the aisle of their wedding ceremony space at Excelsior](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0435-682x1024.jpg)
![Groom in emerald green dinner jacket kisses his bride's hand as they walk up a staircase in Lancaster City PA](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0529-Copy1-682x1024.jpg)
![Groom holds his bride's dress train as they walk down a flight of stairs](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0488-Copy1-682x1024.jpg)
![Groom in emerald green dinner jacket kisses his bride as they walk down a brick sidewalk in Lancaster City PA](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0546-681x1024.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0424-681x1024.jpg)
The Venue
Where do I begin? Excelsior in Lancaster is a beautiful indoor outdoor venue built in 1852 that seamlessly blends rustic elegance with a modern façade. The exposed brick and iron work creates a raw industrial feel, while the elegant chandeliers, high ceilings, and greenery effortlessly soften the space.
![Four tall slightly arched windows are framed in white curtains and greenery for a November wedding ceremony at Excelsior in Lancaster PA](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0059-1024x682.jpg)
Excelsior’s historic architecture and vintage-inspired renovations make this a truly one-of-a-kind venue. The size, dimensions, and grandeur of the multi-faceted spaces can cater to both intimate and large weddings up to 600 guests.
![Large ceremony space is decorated with fall florals and greenery for a November wedding ceremony at Excelsior in Lancaster PA](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0053-1024x682.jpg)
![Large reception space with four white columns in the center is decorated with fall florals and a disco ball for a November wedding ceremony at Excelsior in Lancaster PA](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1248-1024x682.jpg)
Guests enter the venue on the second floor, where the private reception space (Grande Salon), full bar, and dance floor are located. The huge bridal suite (Chamber Room) is also on this level and can accommodate more than a dozen wedding party members and family.
![Wedding dress hangs on a delicate hanger in front of a tall window framed by hanging greenery and white curtains](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0062-682x1024.jpg)
![Wedding welcome sign sits on a clear acrylic easel next to a green and pink floral arrangement](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1519-682x1024.jpg)
![Bride and groom descend tall curved staircase into the Excelsior venue reception space where their guests are seated](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1329-681x1024.jpg)
From the main level, guests can head downstairs to the Catacombs for cocktail hour or upstairs to the third level for the indoor ceremony space. What the basement catacombs lack in lighting, the upstairs ceremony space makes up for in abundance. We staged all the bridal party and family photos in this incredible light-filled space that overlooks King St.
![Bride and groom are surrounded by their bridal party of eight groomsmen and eight bridesmaids](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0584-1024x681.jpg)
![Four metal podiums topped with floral arrangements hold hanging cards with seating assignments for wedding guests](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1173-1024x683.jpg)
The Couple
Barbie and Ken? More like Lauren and Ben. I mean, have you seen a more photogenic couple?! Ever since their breathtaking Old Philadelphia engagement session last year, I have been dying to shoot this wedding!
![Blonde woman in emerald green dress looks down as her fiancé rests his forehead on hers](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/LZ6_6504_websize-682x1024.jpg)
![Groom in emerald green dinner jacket rests his forehead on his bride as she looks into the camera](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0539-681x1024.jpg)
These two are just SO MUCH FUN, and, despite Ben’s hilarious aversion to PDA, their chemistry is so evident in all of the photos. For someone who hates having their photo taken, Ben is basically a natural. He probably gets it from his long-lost cousin Ewan McGregor… (please tell me you see the resemblance?!) And let’s be honest, now that he’s married to a photographer, he’s signed up for a lifetime in front of the camera.
![Groom looks down as he buttons his emerald green dinner jacket with a black shawl collar](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0194-681x1024.jpg)
![Groom wearing a white dress shirt and suspenders looks away as he fixes his black bowtie](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0143-Copy1-682x1024.jpg)
![Groom poses with hands in his pockets wearing an emerald green dinner jacket with a black shawl collar and black loafers](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0183-1-682x1024.jpg)
![Close up photo of groom in emerald green dinner jacket and black bowtie with a fall floral boutonnière](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0204-681x1024.jpg)
![Woven black loafers sit next to black suspenders, black watch, black bowtie, and set of silver cuff links](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0001-682x1024.jpg)
I feel like it goes without saying that Lauren is a true natural, behind the lens and in front of it. Coming from a performing and singing background, Lauren is one of the most outgoing and bubbly people I know, so capturing her in her element on her wedding day was as much a blast as it was a breeze!
![Bride in sheer white robe and half up curled hairstyle looks away and smiles](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0115-Copy1-682x1024.jpg)
![Close up of bride with plum eye makeup](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0406-682x1024.jpg)
![Grinning bride walks with her bridesmaids as her maid of honor holds the train of her dress behind her](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0712-682x1024.jpg)
![Bride in a white dress and long veil ascends a cement staircase in downtown Lancaster PA](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0511-681x1024.jpg)
![Bride holds hand tied fall colored floral bouquet with a pink ribbon](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0282-682x1024.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0569-Copy1-681x1024.jpg)
Ben and Lauren wanted their precious pup, Obi, to be a part of their wedding day, so they made sure to include him in some photos during our portrait time. This is a great way to casually include your furry family members without needing a dedicated pet sitter at your wedding.
![Bride and groom pose with their black Mudi dog outside of Excelsior wedding venue in downtown Lancaster PA](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0560-681x1024.jpg)
![Bride and groom kiss as they pose with their black Mudi dog outside of Excelsior wedding venue in downtown Lancaster PA](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0559-Copy1-681x1024.jpg)
![Groom poses with black Mudi dog outside of Excelsior wedding venue in downtown Lancaster PA](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0563-681x1024.jpg)
The Details
The Pauleys chose a beautiful fall/winter color scheme for their November wedding at Excelsior. The soft pastels, textured champagne fabrics, warm pinky hues, and rich emerald green were a perfect match for the venue’s vintage feel.
![Emerald green, cream, and gold invitation suite](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0022-682x1024.jpg)
![Pink and mauve fall floral bouquet rests on brides knee](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0138-682x1024.jpg)
![Pointed toe heels from Bella Belle sit next to cream colored clutch from Loeffler Randall](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0014-682x1024.jpg)
![November wedding banquet tablescape at Excelsior wedding venue in Lancaster](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1283-682x1024.jpg)
![Four tier wedding cake with flower petals painted in icing](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0877-681x1024.jpg)
![November wedding round tablescape at Excelsior wedding venue in Lancaster](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1203-681x1024.jpg)
![Closeup of bridesmaid bouquets](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0684-1024x682.jpg)
Truly, no detail was overlooked in the planning of this extravagant wedding at Excelsior. The team from Simple Soiree was so attentive to every detail from the minute the venue opened until after the last guest left. The numerous floral installations designed by Forte Florals went up without a hitch and were a sight to behold.
A few of my favorite details included the custom invitation suite designed by @every.little.something and the stunning four-tier wedding cake by @flourettasweet. This color scheme coordination is mind-blowing.
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0019-682x1024.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0883-682x1024.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1224-682x1024.jpg)
The Ceremony
If you’re worried about a stuffy wedding ceremony that puts all of your guests to sleep, hire Leeroy, AKA The Brofficiant. He will absolutely break the tension, keep the ceremony light and fun, and, most importantly, make it all about you. He kept everyone laughing and smiling through the entire ceremony up until Lauren and Ben read their tear-inducing vows to each other. After that, there truly wasn’t a dry eye in the place.
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0999-1024x682.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1004-1024x682.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1075-Copy1-1024x683.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1127-1024x682.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1130-Copy1-1024x682.jpg)
The Reception
Two words: DJ Mast. Seriously, what a party! Lauren and Ben told their DJ to just “turn the reception into a nightclub,” and I must say, he delivered. The dance floor was packed all night, up until DJ Mast announced the after-party was moving to Annie Bailey’s just down the street.
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1600-1024x682.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1335-Copy1-1024x682.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1358-1024x683.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1427-Copy1-1024x682.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1691-1024x683.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1734-Copy1-1024x681.jpg)
I’m a huge fan of this massive disco ball over the dance floor in Excelsior’s reception space. It took this party to the next level!
![Large disco ball hangs over dance floor at Excelsior venue](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1773-682x1024.jpg)
![Groom picks up bride and spins her around while they dance at their wedding reception at Excelsior in Lancaster](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1371-681x1024.jpg)
Vendor List for a Wedding at Excelsior in Lancaster, PA
When I say Lauren and Ben chose a DREAM team of vendors, I mean it. If you want to steal their vendor list for your own downtown Lancaster wedding, check it out below!
- Venue @excelsiorlancasterpa
- Photography – @lindseyfordphoto
- Videography – @davidandsarahfilms
- Catering – @signaturecateringonking
- Planner – @simple_soiree
- Ceremony Musicians – @vivacelivestrings
- Reception Music – @djmastproductions
- Florist – @forteflorals
- Decor – @designsbyshumakerpdt
- Officiant – @thebrofficiant
- Hair – @tousledbeautyco
- Makeup – @veroleighco
- Cake – @flourettasweet
- Linens – @specialoqueenst
- Gown – @weddingfactor
- Tux – @knotstandard
- Stationary – @every.little.something
- Beverage Service – @thetravelingtap
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1518-681x1024.jpg)
This fairytale November wedding was hands down the most magical way to end my 2023 season. I seriously love these two so much, and wish them a lifetime of happiness!
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1559-Copy1-1024x682.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0605-1024x682.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0628-1024x682.jpg)
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![Close up photo of a dinner menu sitting on a pink linen napkin](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-1205-681x1024.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0858-681x1024.jpg)
![Close up detail photo of teardrop diamond halo ring resting against a beige linen ring box](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0011-682x1024.jpg)
![Groom dips his bride in front of cheering bridal party as she throws her head back and laughs](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0617-681x1024.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0467-682x1024.jpg)
Things to Do In Downtown Lancaster during Your Wedding Weekend
Located at 125 E King St. in downtown Lancaster, Excelsior is just around the corner from local favorites like Lancaster Central Market, Prince St. Cafe, and Tellus360. Just steps away is the Lancaster Marriot at Penn Square, where many couples book hotel room blocks. The downtown Lancaster tree lighting took place the same weekend Ben and Lauren tied the knot, so several of their guests attended after the rehearsal dinner at The Cork Factory Hotel. If you’re getting married at Excelsior, there will be no shortage of things for your guests to do in the area!
![Bride and groom run through the streets of downtown Lancaster](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0504-682x1024.jpg)
![Blurred black and white photo of bride and groom running through the streets of downtown Lancaster](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0548-Copy1-1024x682.jpg)
![](https://lindseyfordphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lauren-Ben-Excelsior-Wedding-0424-681x1024.jpg)
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