Winterthur Museum and Country Estate feels like a fairytale come to life. The mansion is elegant, and the grounds have a fairy garden atmosphere that makes it magical for weddings. Becky and Shawn’s wedding at Winterthur included moody florals and dark details for their October celebration.

A Wedding at Winterthur

Becky told me that they decided to have their wedding at Winterthur because it was the first place to give her “the wedding feeling.” She’s a big fan of nature and flora, so it makes sense to have photos in the labyrinth of gardens. For portraits alone, we were able to get an amazing variety of images.

Winterthur includes almost 1,000 acres of land, and so much of it is accessible for wedding rentals. The three main spaces used for weddings are the Reflecting Pool, the Visitor Center Pavilion, and the Galleries Reception Atrium. Shawn and Becky had their nighttime ceremony around the reception pool. It looked straight out of an Italian garden. The ceremony had a really unique feel because of it.

Located just 15 minutes from downtown Wilmington, Winterthur was built as a private residence in the 1830s. Its Greek Revival style was popular among wealthy Americans at that time. The estate also still has incredible antique furniture and home decor from the period. In the early 1900s, a new generation of family members began transforming the grounds into the elaborate gardens that marriers love.

Packages for a wedding at Winterthur range between $1,000-$7,500 with an additional catering fee. Those cost either $24,000 or $30,000. This Delaware wedding venue has capacity for large weddings of over 600 guests. For most people, any of the beautiful spaces will have plenty of room for you and your guests to enjoy the evening surrounded by gorgeous gardens and elegant architecture.

Dark and Moody Details

“Dark and moody” might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a wedding at Winterthur. For Shawn and Becky’s fall wedding, though, the aesthetic worked perfectly. Becky said, “We are weird and a little spooky, but we absolutely love each other.” She likes to think that Shawn is the Gomez to her Morticia Addams.

With that in mind, Shawn chose an absolutely gorgeous black suit with detailed beading. The unconventional touch looked regal in this venue. Becky’s lace mermaid gown felt right at home among the old gardens and stone archways too.

Becky’s cascading bouquet incorporated all the rich colors in their other wedding details. The dark reds matched the wedding party’s dresses and ties. The dark purples and blues went with the suits and the lining of Shawn’s jacket. It all felt moody, fun, and authentic to Becky and Shawn without coming across as campy. 

Becky and Shawn’s Intentional Wedding Day

Becky and Shawn were so excited to see each other at their first look. I love that look of anticipation on both of their faces before Becky tapped Shawn’s shoulder. You can see just how in love they are. Their families gathered around to watch. It was sweet to see their reactions, too.

The ceremony took place by the reflecting pool. This is one of the most unique spots for a wedding at Winterthur. Guests sat on either side of the pool. As the sun set, strings of lights lit the space. People don’t do nighttime ceremonies often because they can be challenging to light. This was the perfect set up. 

Some of my own favorite moments of the night were the parent dances. As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen a lot of parent dances, but Shawn and Becky’s really stood out to me. When Becky danced with her dad, Shawn danced with Becky’s mom. Then, when Shawn danced with his mom, Becky danced with his dad. It was a sweet moment and such a creative way to include everyone.

Are you interested in having me photograph your wedding at Winterthur? Let’s document your memories with joyful, natural photos. Reach out to me here!

Thank you to the vendors who helped make this Winterthur wedding so magical:
Planner: Lovely Veil Events 
Venue: Winterthur Museum
Florals: https://www.roneastburnsflowershop.com/
Photographer: Luna and Lark
Videographer: Solidity Films
Catering: CxRA
Rentals: Collective Event Group 
Desserts: Desserts by Dana
Photo Booth: South Jersey Photo Booth
HMUA: Fusion Salon
Gown: Bridals by Cyndi
Suits: Jos. A. Bank
Bridesmaids Dresses: Jasmine Bridal
Jewelry: Spivak Jewelers
Guest Book: After the Tone