Hear ye, hear ye! This is the tale of two souls brought together by a fateful move to a new town. Jillian and Dan met in high school when Dan was the "new kid in town," and have never left each others side since. After 11 years and countless hurdles, they finally tied the knot Stoltzfus Homestead and Gardens in their now home of Pennsylvania USA. The zesty oranges had us at first sight and give a sense of joie de vivre and zeal for life! Images on the day were captured by John Malloy Photography and the results are just outstanding! We hope you enjoy this magnificent wedding.
The epic botanical appliqué and lace design gave this dress a picture perfect silhouette and a magical bodice.
Jillian's ring was so pretty and features a diamond band as well as a set diamond in the centre.
Her statement pearl earrings were equally epic and suited her so well!
These pretty babies came from Steve Miller and needless to say, we are deeply obsessed!
Jillian tells us, "We met 11 years ago in High School gym class in Cary, NC. Dan was the ‘new’ kid in town and we hit it off immediately. He had just moved from New York and our meeting helped him make an easier transition. We got to know each other more and more during that semester and have not stopped talking to each other ever since. We are true high school sweethearts."
Between then and now, they survived the rest of high school, Jillian’s kidney transplant, and four years of long distance dating. After college they decided to move to Pittsburgh, Pennsylavnia. "Through all of life’s craziest ups and downs we have been by each others sides and I wouldn’t have it any other way," adds Jillian.
Jillian tells us that her proposal involved a waterfall and a hike! "After 11 years, I think Dan finally had enough of getting asked 'so when are you going to ask her?'. In the midst of the pandemic June 2020 we were hiking with some friends. I didn’t want to go hiking that day because of the rain. Dan dragged me out and he popped the question under this beautiful waterfall."
She adds, "I was totally shocked and caught off guard. He later had a picnic all set up with lunch and champagne for all of us to celebrate! I guess I am glad he dragged me out to hike that day."
When it came to choosing the perfect location, the couple say they knew the Grand Barn at Stoltzfus Homestead was 'the one' the second they walked into it. "The bones of the building and everything about the grounds were so charming, we loved the openness of the venue and how it was truly an indoor/outdoor venue which allowed us to be versatile and people could mingle wherever they pleased."
This shot underneath the weeping willow is just so sweet and photographer John tells us that taking the couple's pictures was a pleasure too. "I get a sneak peek into the lives and hearts of couples in love, and when they leave such a lasting impression on me like this couple did, it’s truly special. It was an honour."
Jillian's beautiful bouquet was filled with orange roses, white peonies, anemone and thistle which looked amazing together and perfect for the time of year.
The whole day was awash with oranges and blues; opposites on the colour wheel, these colours complement each other and are practically soul mates they look so good together!
Although the couple planned their wedding during the pandemic, they were overwhelmed with love when so many of their friends and family travelled to be there. "Despite the distance every single one of our very closest loved ones made it to our big day and it was so special and we truly felt honoured. Also, my cousin who gave me my kidney five years ago was able to be there. She literally saved my life and it was so special to see her on the best day of my life," says Jillian.
What a great idea to have a little keepsake from all of your guests. This is a crafty idea that we love and is perfect for anyone who wants a lasting memory.
These sugared doughnuts looked great and are bang on trend.
"Our wedding was exactly how we hoped it would be," says Jillian. "Our vibe was very laid back yet so much fun at the same time. Every detail was absolutely beautiful and my whole vision came to life right before my eyes. We were celebrating the amazing day with our closest family and friends. It was a day FULL of love and we could sure feel it all day long!"
We would like to say a huge thank you to Jillian and Daniel for sharing their gorgeous day with us. A special mention also goes to John Malloy Photography for these awesome images. There are more swoon-worthy pictures for you to enjoy below!