Dana Maxx-Pomerantz and Brandon Goodman’s relationship is filled with love and wonderful surprises, so naturally their wedding was too. When they visited Springton Manor Farm before selecting their venue, it is no doubt they were drawn to the hidden treasures of this historic house situated on 300 lush acres. From the peaked dormers, molding and bronze sconces of The Manor House to the stone walls and animals grazing in the pastures, the property enchants and surprises guests at every turn.
Choosing among Philadelphia wedding venues with a view and centuries of history is just the start when planning an unforgettable wedding. Every part of Dana and Brandon’s wedding was designed to treat their 80 guests to an extra special experience on June 11. So let’s explore the unique touches that brought another wedding dream to life at Springton Manor Farm.
Personalizing Premier Philadelphia Outdoor Wedding Venues
A Jewish Wedding Ceremony in an Idyllic Location
At 5:45pm, guests stepped onto the tranquil grounds of Springton Manor Farm. A custom sign greeted them as they made their way to the century-old linden tree for the ceremony. Here they found a silver table with a basket full of yammikuhs as well as a wood table with a kiddish cup with ¾ wine, two glasses of water, a white napkin, a glass and a handkerchief. All of this was an indication of the ceremony to come—one filled with plenty of Jewish traditions and love.
There are always some guests who simply can’t make it to a couple’s wedding. And although we can’t send the champagne that the bartenders passed out at the Maxx-Pomerantz wedding to them, we do hope they are able to join in celebrating from afar. We love how Brandon’s family made this possible for his grandmother by setting up an iPod podium—a small touch with a big impact.
Featuring the Couple’s Taste at an Outdoor Cocktail Hour
From 6:30–7:30pm, guests gathered in front of The Manor House—just a short walk from the ceremony space—to socialize over incredible small bites and tasty drinks. A full bar opened featuring Dana’s “He’s My Something Blue” signature drink made with silver tequila, blue curacao and pineapple juice with maraschino cherry garnish as well as Brandon’s “She’s an Orange-inal” made with orange vodka and club soda and garnished with a lime wedge. Add in the custom cocktail napkins, and the bar service perfectly reflected Dana’s and Brandon’s personalities.
While guests mixed and mingled or headed over to the table to sign the guest book and leave words of wisdom on advice cards, they enjoyed amazing appetizers by Queen of Hearts catering company. We have seen a lot of creative small bites from this amazing vendor partner, and we continue to be impressed by each menu custom designed to couples’ individual styles. Dana and Brandon opted for displays of traditional crudités and fresh fruit as well as these phenomenal passed hors d’oeuvres:
- Chipotle steak churrasco
- Sesame chicken skewer with honey mustard dipping sauce
- Bacon wrapped scallops
- Vegetable spring roll with Asian dipping sauce
- Macaroni and cheese bites
With an Instagram sign reminding guests to share their experiences, we were not at all surprised to see them posting about these delicious appetizers served on wood boards and gold beaded charger plates.
Personalizing the Reception Space and Table Settings
For the evening entertainment and plated dinner service, the 5,000-square-foot outdoor tented structure was lit up with magenta lighting and filled with the couple’s style. An orange, magenta, white, green and gold color scheme contributed to a joyous atmosphere while table settings were elegantly detailed with traditional and personal touches.
At each dinner table, guests found:
- Silver Gotham flatware
- White with gold rim china
- Candles and flower centerpieces provided by Sommerfield Designs
- Custom table numbers
- Coaster favors
- Thank-you letters
And while these details delighted guests, Dana and Brandon knew kids were not likely to be impressed by gorgeous table settings. That’s why the children found coloring books on their plates. And while the kids did not need any approval to keep those, adults were happily surprised when the DJ announced they could take home the gorgeous centerpieces!
Delightful Choices Throughout Dinner Service
Once guests were situated in the stunning reception area, it was time for introductions, bride and groom first dances and the first course—a fresh arugula and goat cheese salad with dried cherries and shaved onion with balsamic vinaigrette. This fresh salad kept guests satisfied and attentive through the blessing, toasts, welcome speech, father-daughter and mother-son dances and Hora. Finally, while a video montage played, they got their chance to dive into some truly exceptional entrées.
Guests were impressed by their choice of these four incredible entrées accompanied by green beans and smashed red skin potatoes:
- Sautéed lemon chicken breast with white wine lemon sauce and Portobello mushroom and asparagus tips
- Pan seared salmon filet finished with a caper dill sauce
- Filet mignon prepared to a medium temperature with a blackberry cabernet demi-glace
- Grilled vegetable lasagna with herbed ricotta light tomato sauce
And, of course, kids were happy that Queen of Hearts prepared chicken fingers, fries and apple sauce for them.
Fun Evening Surprises
Dana and Brandon had more unexpected events in store for guests—starting with surprising Dana’s parents with a 45th wedding anniversary dance. This fun idea put everyone in extra high spirits for the cake cutting. As guests dove into the chocolate chip and orange cake flavors created by Clay’s Creative Corner Bakery, they were also keen to visit the coffee station. But, of course, there was one more sweet surprise—an ice cream truck!
As guests enjoyed their dessert of choice and danced the night away to music by Unique Musique, they also were keen to pick up a prop from the gift table and post their photo booth picture to Instagram. Illuminada Photography did a phenomenal job capturing all the memories at the Maxx-Pomerantz wedding as well as helping guests save their own photos.
It seemed the joy and surprises would never end. But at 11:30pm, guests were on their way via shuttles provided by DuVall Bus Service. We assure you, though, that the memories didn’t fade anytime soon.
If you would like to make your own memories at the historic Springton Manor Farm, we would love to hear about your wedding vision. To enlist the help of our creative and meticulous professionals aligned with the most trusted partner vendors, contact us online.
Photography By: Illuminada Photography
