Sara and Drew’s love story began on the football field at Franklin and Marshall College in 2019, where Drew, a junior on the team, was immediately smitten by Sara, a freshman who had just signed on as the team’s manager. From study sessions in the library to countless “not-really-dates” at the driving range, Drew was persistent, though he remained in the “friend zone” for quite a while. That all changed with a playful golf challenge, where Drew dared Sara to go on a real date if she lost. She did, and on December 26, 2019, they had their first official date at the Moshulu. The rest, as they say, is history. From long-distance visits to living with Sara’s family during the pandemic, their bond deepened with every milestone. Drew’s proposal at the Moshulu, on November 5, 2022, tied their love story full circle, bringing them back to the place where it all began. It was great to see Sara & Drew again, as I photographed their engagement session last summer!

The Wedding Crest: A Masterpiece of Personal Meaning

One of the many personal touches that made Sara and Drew’s wedding so memorable was their custom wedding crest, a stunning piece of artwork that Sara designed herself. The crest featured meaningful symbols, such as: a pink elephant—an homage to her cherished childhood stuffed animal, a golden snitch representing their love of Harry Potter, chinoiserie urns, and even symbols for both Sara and Drew’s happy places. It was a testament to the couple’s creativity and the deep personal connection woven throughout every detail of their special day. The monogram was strategically scattered throughout the day, as it was present on cornhole boards, cellophane bags, koozies, napkins, and menus.

blue white and pink wedding invitational suite by Emily Wren Photography

Elegant Wedding Day Style

Sara radiated classic elegance in her Allison Webb gown, adorned with a pearl trim and a dramatic bow train, complemented by comfortable kitten heels from Something Bleu. She personalized her look by incorporating pieces of her mother’s veil, adding sentimental value to her attire.

Drew looked dapper in a crisp light blue suit from Suit Supply, paired with white suede bucks from Allen Edmonds. His accessories included a tie with pink elephants and cufflinks featuring pink sand and outlines of Bermuda, symbolizing their new home together.

Together, their wedding attire beautifully combined tradition with personal touches, making their day uniquely memorable.

First Look & Private Vow Reading at Gulph Mills Golf Club

Before the ceremony, Sara and Drew shared a private moment at Gulph Mills Golf Club, a place that holds special meaning for Sara’s family. The club, where her grandparents and parents have been members since the 1980s, had recently undergone renovations, blending timeless charm with modern elegance. Their first look was filled with raw emotion, and the private vow reading allowed them to savor the day without the pressure of performing for an audience. This quiet moment of togetherness was a highlight, providing the perfect balance between quality time with each other and the hustle of the day.

A Sacred Ceremony at St. David’s Church

The couple’s ceremony took place at the breathtaking St. David’s Church, where family and friends gathered to witness the union. Sara walked down the aisle to Lana Del Rey’s “Say Yes to Heaven,” a song that held deep personal significance, while the recessional featured the dramatic Widor’s “Toccata,” the same song that played at her parents’ wedding. The traditional vows were exchanged with grace, but the true magic happened earlier in the day when Sara and Drew opted for a private vow reading—an intimate moment just for them.

white blue pink and peach wedding flowers bouquet for church ceremony

groom walking down the aisle at St Davids Episcopal Church

Elegant Wedding Day Details

Sara and Drew’s wedding at Gulph Mills Golf Club was the epitome of timeless luxury, elevated with unique, personal details. The stunning florals by Cottage Flowers Design brought Sara’s vision to life and were meticulously arranged in blue chinoiserie urns, tied the reception décor to the custom crest. Blue chinoiserie urns also inspired the bridesmaids’ attire. They wore a harmonious assortment of mixed and matched blue floral dresses from Smith and Quinn, perfectly echoing the urns’ elegant motif. It was such a joy to capture these details, each one a reflection of Sara and Drew’s creative and vibrant spirits.

And the cake—a masterpiece from Bredenbeck’s Bakery—was adorned with bows to echo Sara’s dress, creating a cohesive and elegant aesthetic. Cocktails were another standout feature, with 13th St. Cocktails crafting custom drinks, including Sara’s favorite clarified milk punch—appropriately named the “Pink Elephant”—and Drew’s tequila-based “Whale Watch.”

blue chinoiserie flower vases and reception place cards at Summer Pennsylvania wedding

The Perfect Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Capturing Sara and Drew’s wedding was an absolute joy. The day ran smoothly, thanks to the talented team at Marquis Events. They envisioned their special day as the quintessential, timeless country club wedding, yet they elevated it with luxurious details, infusing the celebration with a unique flair and elegance that was breathtaking. The perfect blend of old and new, their wedding at Gulph Mills Golf Club was not only a showcase of their love but also of their impeccable taste. Every detail, from the blue chinoiserie urns to the bespoke wedding crest, was thoughtfully chosen to create an unforgettable atmosphere that was both grand and intimately personal.