Experience Elegance At The Historic Shady Lane Wedding Venue
One of the best things about being an East Coast wedding photographer is getting a behind-the-scenes look at some of the neatest venues! From glitzy hotels to sandy beaches, I’ve gotten the chance to see them all. And now, I’m here to tell you about my favorites! If you have been searching for a secluded space for your nature-filled event, I would love to tell you what you can expect from a Historic Shady Lane wedding. This space will serve as an elegant backdrop for the most important day of your life!
Cat Granger Photography
About The Historic Shady Lane Wedding Venue
475 Shady Lane, Manchester, Pennsylvania 17345
Historic Shady Lane is a manor that dates back to the early founding of the state. The house sits on a parcel of land that once belonged to William Penn. After his passing, the area was passed onto his heirs until it was purchased in 1774 by James Smith, just two years before he would go on to sign the Declaration of Independence. In 1807, the house fell under new ownership through the Hake family, who opened up a whiskey distillery. To this day, you’ll still find the structure perched on the property! Jacob Hake was responsible for building the stone house in 1825.
Over the years, the house switched hands a number of times, with new additions happening under each new owner. The house started to be used as a wedding venue in the 1940s, around the same time the nature preserve was added. Now, the house stands as a testament to time, with unique quirks and touches that will set your wedding day apart from the rest! Historic Shady Lane has been the recipient of countless couple’s choice awards from publications like WeddingWire. From the second you step on the property, there’s a good chance it will be love at first sight!
Cat Granger Photography
Details of the Grounds
The venue has become a hidden gem for couples seeking an outdoor wedding. The venue rests on over 70 acres and gives you full access to the grounds throughout your wedding day. The Rose Garden right behind the house tends to be a popular spot for ceremonies. With this option, you will be able to relax inside the house and watch your guests arrive until it’s time to make your grand entrance down the property stairs into the garden. You are also able to use the Greenhouse Patios or the Greenhouse Terrace with the namesake structure as your backdrop. There is a 1900s bandstand that tends to be another favored area for ceremonies. With this option, you will have a historic stage where you can exchange your vows. For something a little more secluded, you can use the reserved Woodlands area.
If you would prefer some temperature control, the Greenhouse is the perfect spot! The glass structure lets you bring the outside in while providing you with the necessary heating or cooling necessary for a relaxing day.
For an outdoor reception, you will be able to use the Reception Tent. This 4,000-square-foot tent is nestled near the woods, giving you the Pennsylvania forest for a natural backdrop. The tent has detachable sides with faux-arched windows that let in the light. The structure is durable enough to provide your guests with shelter in case it rains.
Other Special Historic Shady Lane Wedding Spaces
The venue will let you set up a bar outside the house so you can have a nature-filled cocktail hour. Your guests will have a chance to enjoy a signature drink before exploring the gardens and trails around the property. If you would prefer to keep things inside, you can use the Greenhouse for this portion of your day.
The venue has two get-ready suites located inside separate buildings. The Cottage tends to be a favorite for brides. You will have a sunny space to put on all the finishing touches before your guests start to arrive. Grooms prefer to use the Den located under the patio of the Main House. This has a full dressing room and kitchen that you can use ahead of the event. Historic Shady Lane is able to accommodate up to 225 guests.
The exterior of the house is positively stunning with a rugged stone facade and a wrap-around porch. Arched walkways lead into the den area. The Greenhouse features glass walls and ceilings with a stone base. The patios are paved in concrete, and there are bistro lights strung up over the seating areas.
Photography Opportunities
With so much meticulously kept land, Historic Shady Lane has no shortage of spots you can use for your pictures. The stone gates around the garden are the ideal place for both individual and couple portraits. You can also use the steps or the secluded walkways for this portion of your day, or if you feel like going for a hike, you can try the woodlands. The balcony gives you a sunny spot for your group portraits with your wedding party as well as your family.
Wedding Details
The venue will work with you to make sure you have your dream day. Ahead of your wedding day, you can arrange an engagement shoot on the property. They are also able to host wedding showers as well as rehearsal dinners. Once your wedding day arrives, the venue will provide set-up and clean-up. You will be able to use their tables and chairs throughout your wedding. You will be able to use outside vendors for your catering services. The venue is pet-friendly, so your four-legged friend doesn’t have to miss your day! The venue is wheelchair accessible and provides on-site parking. They offer golf carts so you can quickly zip around and quickly get to where you need to be.
I Hope You Just Found The Perfect Space For Your Day At The Historic Shady Lane Wedding Venue
With a Historic Shady Lane wedding, you can have a gorgeous space for your unique wedding. Schedule your tour soon so you can decide if this is the venue for you!
Once you have your wedding space, it’s time to start thinking about pictures! I am an East Coast wedding photographer, and I adore working with couples so they can remember every second of their wedding day. I would love to sit down and have a conversation so you can decide if my style matches yours. Contact me today to get the conversation started!
