Tucked along the banks of the Delaware River, Glen Foerd combines classic elegance with unique features to give you a day fully customized to your vision. I was recently lucky enough to capture Giuli and Matt’s wedding at this venue for a day I will never forget! As a Philadelphia wedding photographer, I get the chance to go behind the scenes of some of this city’s best hidden gems. If you have a minute, I would love to tell you what makes a Glen Foerd wedding so magical.
About The Glen Foerd Wedding Venue
5001 Grant Ave, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19114
While many people have called this converted wedding venue home over the years, the formal history of Glen Foerd dates back to 1850, when Charles Macalester purchased the property to serve as his summer residence. He portioned off and sold much of the land, keeping one spot for an estate he called Glengarry. Over the next 20 years, Charles would host regular galas where people from across the city could join together for a celebration.
The house stayed in his family’s possession until his daughter, Lily, passed away in 1891. From there, the mansion was purchased by Robert Foerderer and his wife, Caroline. The house was donated to the Lutheran Church in 1971 and then to the Fairmount Park Commission several years later for preservation. These days, the house stands as a testament to Edwardian Classical Revival architecture with the original details still expertly maintained. It’s these stunning accents combined with the meticulously kept landscaping that make this property perfect for your wedding day.
Details of the Grounds
Glen Foerd continues to be the spot where people across Philly go to celebrate weddings! My day with Guili and Matt started on a quiet day in April inside the bridal suite. Guili spent the morning getting ready in the airy room, sipping champagne with her closest friends and family members. Once she slipped on her gown, we spent a little more time in the suite, taking individual portraits in the natural light of the large windows with the historic crown molding contrasting the pale tan walls.
The pair met for their first look pictures in front of the house before it was time for their ceremony to begin. For their I dos, they chose a ceremony site with the Delaware River shining prominently in the background. The current of the water created the perfect amount of ambiance as they held hands and said their vows.
The back porch of the house was the best spot for a cocktail hour! Guests grabbed drinks and explored the property while I stayed with the couple for their portraits.
For their reception, they used the Riverside Pavilion. This is an open-air space that the venue designed to be completely customizable. The area had been decorated with white drapery and string lights that created a romantic glow as the sun began to set. Matt and Guili spent hours celebrating while surrounded by their family. Truly, it was an evening filled with love and laughter as the pair raised a glass to many happy years ahead!
Photography Opportunities
While there is so much to love about Glen Foerd, as a wedding photographer, I was struck by how picture-perfect every corner of this property is. The bridal suite is rich with natural light that floods in from the sweeping windows throughout the room. As I worked with Guili, we stood near the glass so we could get luscious shots of her dress. Because the suite was so large, we could get pictures of her twirling around as she showed off her completed look. We stayed inside for a while and used the grand staircase for individual portraits of Matt.
Outside, the walkway leading up to the mansion was the chosen spot for their first look portraits. The two shared an intimate moment together before the ceremony beneath the shade of the property trees. From there, we used the front porch for pictures of the pair. The stately architecture was the best backdrop as the two spent some time together before the ceremony began.
The ceremony site didn’t have a bad angle! As Guili made her way down the aisle, the lush spring trees added bright pops of greenery. The altar itself had the water of the Delaware on prominent display. Then, throughout the reception, the natural light shining through the open-air structure ensured I could capture every moment of the two together.
Wedding Details
So, let’s take a second to chat about all the ways this venue is going to give you the day of your dreams. Glen Foerd offers exclusive wedding planning through the team at Jamie Hollander Events and Catering. Their team has years of experience throwing events you’ll cherish for the rest of your life! The house is located just twenty minutes outside the heart of downtown Philly, offering you more options for your wedding portraits if you want to spend some time celebrating this great city! This is also ideal for nearby lodging options.
The venue will work with you to figure out every detail leading up to your day. You will be able to accommodate up to 300 guests, and the venue will provide you with support staff to help you manage it all! You can let the team take care of all the food and drinks. Their chefs are experts at understanding your taste and crafting a menu that perfectly aligns with your vision! In addition to the standard photo areas, the venue has an art gallery on the second floor where you will be allowed to take pictures throughout your day. Their team can provide you with rentals, and they can help you customize the Riverside Pavilion so it perfectly matches your party!
Philadelphia Couples Should All Consider The Magic Of A Glen Foerd Wedding
If you have been searching for a dreamy wedding venue just outside Philadelphia, there’s a good chance you are about to fall head over heels for the Glen Foerd wedding venue! This Edwardian house has everything you need for the most marvelous celebration.
Once you have your venue, it’s time to start thinking about portraits. If lively and romantic portraits are your thing, let’s chat! As a Philadelphia wedding photographer, I love working with couples to document every second of their day. I would love to sit down for a drink and tell you all about my style so you can see if I’m the one to help you celebrate. So, send me a message today to find out more!
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Vendor Information for Matt and Guili’s Glen Foerd Wedding:
Bride: @giulsmccarthy
Venue: @glenfoerd
Bridal Boutique: @elizabethjohnscouture
Bridesmaids dress: @elizabethjohnscouture
Suits: @suitsupply
Stationary: @wildwoodcalligraphyandpost
Wedding Planner: @glenfoerd
Entertainment: @bachelorboysband
Videographer: @prettyweddingfilms
Cake: @newjunebakery
Hair & Makeup: @airhairandmakeup
Florals: @flowersbyjennie-lynne
