1865 was a monumental year in U.S. history—marking the end of the Civil War and the birth of the 13th Amendment. But did you know that it was also the year Loch Aerie Mansion was brought to life in Chester County, PA? This breathtaking, historic estate set the stage for Ashley and Zack’s unforgettable August wedding, blending timeless elegance with rich history to create a day that was nothing short of magical.

Let’s take a peek at some of my favorite jaw dropping moments during this black tie affair to inspire your wedding planning!

History of the Loch Aerie Mansion

But first: A quick history lesson because this nosy nerd is just dying to share what I learned during my tour of Loch Aerie Mansion with Ashley and Zack.

• Designed by renowned architect Addison Hutton in 1865, this 6,552-square-foot stone mansion was originally built for William E. Lockwood, a successful Philadelphia businessman known for his innovative linen paper shirt collars.
• Set against the picturesque backdrop of Chester County, Loch Aerie is a true showstopper, boasting Pennsylvania Blue Marble and Limestone construction that radiates timeless charm.
• The mansion’s grand design includes ornate moldings, marble and slate fireplaces, expansive verandas, and even a lookout tower!
• With eight spacious bedrooms, a nursery, and a summer kitchen, the estate feels luxurious and welcoming all at once.

One of the coolest features? The mansion was ahead of its time, with running water fed by a gravity-powered system from a nearby pond.

Getting Ready

Ashley, Zack, and their wedding party all got ready at a nearby Marriott hotel the morning of the big day. The morning was full of laughter, games, glowy makeup, and happy tears.

I was in corner shedding a few happy tears myself over these next level detail shots. The graphic designer in me loves a classic and coordinating invitation suite, especially one with a custom venue illustration like this one.

Beaded Wedding Dress Inspiration

I snapped so many portraits of Ashley—while she was getting ready, pre-ceremony, during the reception—I just couldn’t help myself. Her bridal ensemble was just chefs kiss and she radiated joy the whole day! Ashley chose the Aspen dress from Alexandra Grecco, a beautiful beaded floral embroidered gown with wide scoop neckline, structured bodice, and fitted skirt. It looked like it was made for her. She paired it with these classic Bella Belle silk slingback heels in the Reese style. Her two-tiered satin trim veil added gorgeous movement to the newlyweds’ photos and ceremony shots.

Wedding Ceremony at Loch Aerie Mansion

The sun-drenched lawn in front of the mansion made for the perfect ceremony location, with the iconic stone facade as their backdrop. As guests took their seats on white chairs surrounded by natural greenery, you could feel the excitement building. Ashley’s walk down the aisle was a show-stopping moment—her veil fluttering in the breeze as she made her way toward Zack, who was already tearing up at the sight of her.

The couple exchanged heartfelt vows in front of the mansion’s grand stone entrance, framed by a lush floral Chuppah created by the talented team at Camellia Faire Floral. With Loch Aerie’s intricate architecture behind them, every photo taken during the ceremony was picture-perfect. Seriously, the combination of history, love, and a little bit of sparkle from Ashley’s gown gave me chills as I captured each moment.

The Reception

After the ceremony, the celebration continued in Loch Aerie’s beautiful reception space, where every detail was just as thoughtful and elegant as the mansion itself. Ashley and Zack chose a black-tie theme, which paired perfectly with the venue’s timeless charm.

Romantic lighting and soft floral arrangements filled the grand ballroom, with its wooden trusses and rubbed bronze chandeliers. Their four-tier gold-foiled cake from The Master’s Baker was a literal work of art, standing proudly at the center of the room.

The evening was full of laughter, dancing, and so much love. Watching Ashley and Zack take their first dance as husband and wife under the sparkling lights felt like a moment straight out of a fairytale, and I was so honored to capture it.

Planning a Wedding at Loch Aerie Mansion

If you’re dreaming of a wedding day filled with history, elegance, and timeless beauty, Loch Aerie Mansion is the perfect venue for you! Whether you’re envisioning an outdoor ceremony with the mansion as your backdrop or a grand reception inside its stunning ballroom, this venue is guaranteed to make your wedding day unforgettable. And if you’re looking for someone to capture all the magic, I’d love to be part of your big day!

Let’s chat about your vision and how we can bring your dream wedding to life at Loch Aerie Mansion. Click here to inquire about my availability, and let’s make your wedding day one for the ages!