Calla + Mike | Longwood Gardens Intimate Elopement | Pennsylvania Wedding Photographer

Mar 18

A Longwood Gardens Wedding Vow Exchange: Calla & Mike's Elopement Story

Calla and Mike are one of many couples whose wedding plans were upended by the COVID-19 pandemic. Originally planning a grand celebration surrounded by family and friends, they made the difficult decision to postpone their large wedding—but they didn’t want to wait any longer to officially start their life together. So, in true Pennsylvania fashion, they chose a private self-uniting ceremony. (Fun fact: Pennsylvania is one of the few states that allows couples to marry themselves legally, thanks to its rich Quaker history.)

Although legally married, Calla and Mike dreamed of exchanging vows and rings in a setting that reflected their love and values. They wanted those moments captured in a place that was both meaningful and beautiful—and that’s when they reached out to me, a Pennsylvania elopement photographer with a deep love for Longwood Gardens. As soon as Mike asked if I was available to document their story, I didn’t hesitate to say yes.

The Beauty and Challenge Behind a Longwood Gardens Wedding

Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square is an absolute dream location for any Longwood Gardens wedding or elopement. As a Longwood Gardens photographer, I’ve spent countless afternoons capturing love stories among its lush greenhouses, iconic fountains, and vibrant blooms. So I was thrilled when Calla and Mike chose it for their special moment.

But on the day of their vow exchange, disaster struck—my car broke down on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. I was heartbroken. This wasn’t just any photo session; this was a long-overdue celebration for a couple who had already sacrificed so much. I refused to let them down. I called for backup, my amazing husband swooped in to pick me up, and I left a note on my stranded car before rushing to Longwood Gardens.

Vows, Rings, and Golden Hour Magic

Even though I arrived a bit late, Calla and Mike greeted me with warmth and understanding. Their kindness reminded me exactly why I love what I do as a Pennsylvania elopement photographer—these intimate, deeply personal moments are about so much more than a timeline.

Underneath their favorite tree (a hidden gem I had somehow never noticed before!), Calla and Mike exchanged vows and wedding rings with joy and heartfelt emotion. It was simple, beautiful, and truly them. Afterward, we wandered through Longwood Gardens as the sun set, making the most of every last drop of golden light. The timing couldn’t have been better—the fountains erupted just as we passed, and a gust of wind sent mist floating around them, creating some of the most magical portraits I’ve ever taken.

We laughed, explored, and created lasting memories until we were (gently) escorted out by one of the garden’s famously nonchalant security cats.

A Note of Gratitude

Calla and Mike, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your patience, grace, and trust. And thank you to my husband—the real MVP of the evening—for jumping in without hesitation and making sure I got there in time to capture this unforgettable Longwood Gardens wedding moment.

If 2020 taught me anything, it’s to be adaptable, keep showing up no matter what, and to focus (pun intended) on what matters most—love, connection, and resilience. You two embody all of that and more.

Congratulations again, Calla and Mike! I’m honored to have been part of your journey, and I hope these images bring back the joy and intimacy of your day every time you look at them.

Please enjoy some of my favorite images from our evening together at Longwood Gardens. While the private vow and ring exchange photos will remain just for them, the rest of the gallery still captures the magic of their love—and the glow of newlywed bliss.