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An Engaged Couple’s Guide to The Gardens At Applecross

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I'll be your wedding day fairy godmother/hype woman. Wanna know a little secret? That little nervous feeling you have about being awkward on camera? Every. Single. Couple. on here felt the exact same way at first. I promise I'll never leave you two hanging. You'll get jaw-dropping ethereal images all while having a freaking blast!

Hi, I'm LINDSEY.

So you’ve just discovered The Gardens at Applecross while scrolling through dreamy wedding venues in Chester County, and now you’re wondering: is it as magical as it looks? (Spoiler: yes.) Whether you’re deep into planning or just dipping your toes into venue shopping, this guide covers everything you need to know about hosting your wedding day at this light-filled, all-inclusive garden paradise.

Two pastel pink, orange, and white floral column installs sit under a white pergola on a stone patio facing rows of white ceremony chairs | Lindsey Ford Photography at The Gardens at Applecross

Indoor Outdoor Wedding Venues in Pennsylvania

If you live in or near Chester County, you may have just recently stumbled upon this newly constructed wedding venue. Since its completion in 2023, it’s been named one of the best woodsy wedding venues in the region. And it’s no mystery why: Gardens at Applecross couples love the panicle hydrangea hedges, handmade stone waterfall, white crepe myrtle walkway, and handmade ceremony pergola that somehow always catches the light just right.

Bride and groom stand and kiss in the middle of the woods with sun rays beaming through the leaves | Lindsey Ford Photography at The Gardens at Applecross

Whether you’re dreaming of a sun-kissed outdoor ceremony, a chic garden cocktail hour, or a candlelit reception in their ballroom, the setting is polished, natural, and thoughtfully designed.

Inclusive & Culturally Mindful Celebrations

One of the things I admire most about The Gardens at Applecross is its commitment to celebrating every couple’s culture and traditions. Their in-house catering team is known for crafting flavorful menus tailored to Indian, Kosher, and Asian celebrations — but they’re also flexible and enthusiastic about customizing your day your way. It’s a venue where inclusivity isn’t an afterthought; it’s at the heart of everything they do.

Check out The Gardens at Applecross’ menu and catering options here!

Arched mirror with the words "Welcome to Our Wedding", "Let's Party!" and "xoxo Shan + Brian" sits next to a pastel pink and yellow floral arrangement | Lindsey Ford Photography

The Gardens at Applecross All-Inclusive Wedding Package

Planning your day here feels like one big sigh of relief. Their all-inclusive wedding package is built to take the stress out of logistics while still allowing you to incorporate your personal style.

Sweetheart table is surrounded with pastel pink, yellow, and white flowers at The Gardens at Applecross | Lindsey Ford Photography

Here’s what’s included:

  • On-site wedding ceremony under a handmade arched pergola
  • 5-hour reception
  • Premium open bar
  • Specialty ballroom & dance floor lighting
  • Cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres
  • Sit-down, buffet, or stations service for dinner
  • Custom wedding cake & selected desserts
  • Bride & groom suites
  • Linens, flatware, and all the elegant extras
  • Full professional staff
  • And more!

The Gardens at Applecross wedding cost starts at $160 per guest for a beautifully curated, all-inclusive day!

Hotels Near The Gardens at Applecross

Your guests will sing your praises for picking a venue that’s easy to get to and has cozy accommodations nearby. Whether you’re looking for modern comfort or local charm, here are a few solid picks:

Closest to the venue

Still nearby, under 20 minutes

For guests who love boutique charm

  • Stottsville Inn: 3512 Strasburg Road, Coatesville, PA

Pro tip: Include hotel info with your invitations or wedding website — especially if you’re offering transportation!

Guests stand and sit around an indoor wedding reception space hung with sheer white draping on the ceiling  | Lindsey Ford Photography at The Gardens at Applecross

Want to See a Real Wedding at The Gardens at Applecross?

Curious what a wedding here actually looks like?

Check out Shannon and Brian’s late summer celebration full of pastel florals, golden light, and thoughtful garden details: Read their real wedding feature here!


Thinking about lighting, ceremony layout, or how to schedule portraits around the sun? I’ve got you. I’m always happy to share what I know from photographing weddings here — from my favorite golden hour detours to the best places for a private vow exchange.


Two pastel pink, orange, and white floral column installs sit under a white pergola on a stone patio at The Gardens at Applecross | Lindsey Ford Photography

Venue FAQs: The Gardens at Applecross

To make your research easier, here are answers to the most common questions I get from couples:

How much does it cost to get married at The Gardens at Applecross?

Their wedding packages start around $160 per guest and include everything from catering to the ceremony setup, cake, linens, bar, and more.

Is there a backup plan for rain?

Yes! The Windows on the Gardens ballroom can serve as your indoor ceremony backup if needed — and it’s just as stunning with its floor-to-ceiling windows, truss beams, sheer white draping, and glorious natural light. You won’t feel like you’re “settling” if the weather shifts.

Is there a getting ready suite for the wedding party?

Yes! The bridal suite is thoughtfully equipped with a mini fridge, TV, sink, large mirrors, and natural light. There is also a separate groom’s suite, which is perfectly suited to the needs of your party.

Can we bring in outside vendors?

While they offer many in-house services (including catering), the venue is vendor-friendly and allows you to bring in your favorite creatives, like your photographer (hi!) and planner.

Front entrance to The Gardens at Applecross wedding venue | Lindsey Ford Photography

How far in advance should we book?

This venue books up quickly — especially spring and fall weekends — so I’d recommend securing your date at least 12-18 months out.

Can they accommodate cultural or religious ceremonies?

Absolutely. The venue’s inclusive ethos and customizable menu make it a favorite for Indian, Jewish, Chinese, and multicultural weddings.

Where is The Gardens at Applecross located?

It’s tucked right in Chester County, PA — about 45 minutes from Philadelphia and 20 minutes from West Chester. The venue serves couples in metropolitan Philadelphia, the surrounding Pennsylvania suburbs to the south and west, southern New Jersey and the Wilmington Delaware area.

The Gardens at Applecross indoor wedding reception space with wide windows on every wall and wooden ceiling beams with round banquet tables set with decor | Lindsey Ford Photography

Planning Your Wedding at The Gardens at Applecross

Whether you’re planning a botanical garden wedding, looking for an all-inclusive Chester County venue, or searching Google for The Gardens at Applecross reviews, this space offers both magic and practicality. With thoughtful design, top-tier service, and a team that’s all heart, this venue is truly something special.

Still deciding if it’s the right fit?

Let’s chat about how it photographs, what time the light hits best, and why it might just be your dream venue.

Submit a wedding photography inquiry here to get the conversation started!

Bride and groom hold hands and walk toward the front of their outdoor ceremony space which is framed by an arched white pergola | Lindsey Ford Photography

Lindsey Ford is a DE and PA wedding photographer capturing weddings all over the East Coast, including Chester County, PA, and is ready to help document your special moments. If you’re ready to book your Philadelphia area wedding photography, inquire here to reserve your wedding date!


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I'll be your wedding day fairy godmother/hype woman. Wanna know a little secret? That little nervous feeling you have about being awkward on camera? Every. Single. Couple. on here felt the exact same way at first. I promise I'll never leave you two hanging. You'll get jaw-dropping ethereal images all while having a freaking blast!

hi, I'm lindsey.

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