Renewal in PA Part II – The Venue and The Look

To continue our Renewal story today I am sharing more about our fabulous venue in Dallas, Pennsylvania.  Early on in the planning I posted this, so have a look!  The Cottage at Hillside Farms is anything but that which the word cottage implies.  This was the summer home of the well known Cunningham farming family.  A well loved place, full of original china, rugs and architecture, the owners of this grand place trust each visitor to wander carefully and respect the history each item holds.  The minute you enter the Cottage, you are welcomed in, feeling an instant sense of warmth and familiarity.  I still love this space and take every chance I can to return.  It is quite amazing how a space, a home, a room or veranda can draw on your heart and make such an impact. Perhaps it is the spirit of all good times had here that lures people back time and time again.  We certainly added to the celebratory history of this place with our Renewal celebration.

The massive wrap around porch became our party space.  The outer screened wall was lined with banquet tables, draped in peony embroidered loveliness compliments of my friends at La Tavola Linen in warm honey shade.  Every guest had a view of the sprawling front lawn speckled with mature pines and landscape. Above left is a view of the rustic gazebo crafted by the original owners.  Organic shapes made from antlers and fallen branches gave this dancing space its own personality and charming spirit.  Maggie from Details, came along to deck out the space with lights and bold lanterns.

One of my favorite shots of the day; the Hubby’s parents caught in an intense moment of conversation.  A picture is so worth a thousand words.

Each table was detailed with a collection of vintage linens, crocheted doilies, old art frames and small styling details such as collectible salt dips and pretty lotion glass jars I collected over time.  We wanted each table to feel at home, with guests comfortable at their seats and able to soak in the decor, play games and relax. From Yahtzee and Dominos to chess and Boggle, guests were immersed in friendly games all evening long.

Just a few steps beyond the porch was a setting that took us back in time to warm late spring evenings on the lawn.  Vintage lawn furniture was placed about the property in cozy vignettes for guests to mingle and rest.

The grand dining room inside became a haven for those needed a bit of rest from the outdoors.  The dining table original to the property comfortably sat 20 of our guests for long chats and a game of poker or two!

Photos by the talented Daniel Lanton and the kind Kara Walsh

I wanted to extend a huge thank you to the team at the Hillside Cottage for giving us run of this beautiful property.  We set up “camp” there for over 3 days, busy with preparations.  Long days turned into late nights and we always felt right at home.  Up next…a look at the stationery, favors and photobooth!