When you’re planning an outdoor wedding, you want to make sure you can combine all those exceptional views with some pretty amazing accommodations. You deserve to have a celebration that’s as stress-free as possible, and the right venue will help you achieve this. As a Maryland wedding photographer, I get the chance to tour wedding venues all across the state and see how they positively spoil their clients. If you’re searching for a picturesque setting for your outdoor wedding, I would love to tell you all about the Swan Harbor Farm wedding venue so you can decide if this Havre de Grace venue is the spot for you!
401 Oakington Road, Havre de Grace, Maryland 21078
Swan Harbor Farm is a beautiful manor situated on over 500 quiet acres. The farm traces back to the 18th century when it was owned by several farmers before being purchased by John Adlum in 1797. Adlum went to work creating wine from the grapes across the land. Before long, his contemporaries considered him a pioneer of the industry. In fact, his skills were so impressive that when he sent a bottle of burgundy to Thomas Jefferson in 1809, the president immediately ordered 165 cuttings from the farm’s vines to be planted in his own fields in Monticello.
Over the years, the manor underwent great expansion, adding wings and additional houses for the staff. The home was bought by John Kenney in 1951 and then sold to John Hopkins University in 1986. Today, the farm is owned by the Hartford County Department of Parks and Recreation and frequently hosts some truly unforgettable events. They have been recognized as one of the couples’ favorite wedding venues and sites such as Here Comes the Guide.
Swan Harbor Farm specializes in outdoor weddings. The farm has over 500 acres and allows you to find the spot that’s right for your wedding. Many couples choose to set their guests up on the lawn in front of the house. Not only does this give you a historical backdrop, but it also puts you near amenities such as get-ready rooms and indoor bathrooms. Others choose to exchange vows on the grass overlooking the Chesapeake Bay.
If you are looking for a space for an intimate, indoor wedding, the venue allows you to rent out the restored farmhouse. The manor features a den, a foyer, and a small covered porch.
The venue has an events tent set up on the lawn. This elegant structure features a tall, draped cathedral ceiling with chandeliers. The sides are designed to look like arched windows. You can have the sides open to let in the fresh air or leave them closed in the event of bad weather. The venue does not offer heating or cooling but will allow you to use rentals to bring in more climate control.
For those wanting a low-key reception without dancing, the venue lets you use the interior of the farmhouse. You will have a beautifully decorated space to raise a glass and toast to the future!
The farmhouse’s interior tends to be a favorite spot for an indoor cocktail hour. Your guests will see the historic home firsthand as they enjoy signature drinks. The patio is a fabulous place for an outdoor cocktail hour. You can set out yard games in the grass near the pavement for some middle-of-the-day entertainment.
The venue allows you to use the farmhouse to get ready ahead of your event. You’ll have separate spaces to put on your party’s finishing touches.
The interior of the house can hold up to 125 guests. The events tent can hold up to 250 guests.
The farmhouse is a stately, two-story white manor with green shutters and covered porches overlooking the property. The grounds have been meticulously landscaped with colorful perennials that bloom once the weather heats up. The events tent is paved with brick and features a bright white draped ceiling that comes to a peak beneath sparkling chandeliers.
Swan Harbor Farm gives you endless opportunities for individual and couple wedding portraits. The land has a wooden pier with a gazebo overlooking the Bay. It’s the ideal spot for positively dreamy portraits of this truly legendary space. You can also use the beloved willow tree near the house for these pictures. The gardens give you a flat and accessible space for portraits with every family member. Lastly, the lit-up fountain in the center of the gardens gives you a pretty epic backdrop for an evening kiss.
On top of your wedding, Swan Harbor Farm can be used for events such as showers and rehearsal dinners. The center allows you to use your own licensed and insured caterer for your meals. The tent has electrical outlets throughout, so you can bring in lighting, a DJ, and pretty much everything else you might need. The venue has tables and chairs you can use throughout your wedding. The space surrounding the house is wheelchair-accessible. There is also on-site parking.
While the venue does not offer full-service event planning, its team of experts knows how to throw a great wedding. They will be available throughout the entire process so they can answer your questions and ensure you have access to the resources you need. Staff will be available throughout your wedding day, and you’ll have a golf cart ride to the water for your portraits. The house’s interior has heating and air conditioning and five restrooms.
If you are looking for a breathtaking outdoor venue, the Swan Harbor Farm wedding venue might just be the spot for you. This storied estate gives you sweeping views of the Chesapeake Bay and all the accommodations you’ll need for an unforgettable day.
As far as capturing all the details of your wedding, that’s where I come in! As a wedding photographer, I adore connecting with couples, finding out all about their stories, and giving them genuine portraits to document their day. So, I would love to talk to you about my style. But for more of my work, stop by my portfolio. Let’s chat soon!