If you are looking for a Philadelphia Wedding Venue that provides a private oasis in the middle of historic rolling hills and beautiful views, the Philander Chase Knox Estate is everything you are looking for and more. Imagine celebrating your wedding day with your closest family and friends at a historic estate in a national landmark. The luxurious estate with perfectly manicured grounds, is tucked away in a corner of the Valley Forge National Historic Park, a Revolutionary war site. The Venue was actually the summer home to attorney general Philander Chase Knox at one time.
The historical significance of the venue is just one of the major reasons this venue is a top pick for couples. The grounds feature many amazing settings and options for an all-inclusive wedding. The Venue has a bridal suite, outdoor ceremony options, a beautiful patio for cocktail hour options, and a gorgeous white tent covering a raised reception area. The reception area features reclaimed barn wood farm tables and walnut cross back farm chairs with cushions. The venue is run by Robert Ryan catering, so there is no need to search for a caterer. They make planning easy, with all the add-ons available for your day- like glassware, china, and the wedding cake!
Wedding Portrait Opportunities
Valley Forge Historic National Park
Obviously, as a wedding photographer, I am always scouting locations for amazing locations that lead to stunning images for my clients. With this Philadelphia wedding venue being in a 3500-acre historic park, there is no shortage of nearby photo locations for couples who like to explore. The Valley Forge Historic National Park has gorgeous valley views across rolling hills. A stone chapel, a massive stone arch and tiny log cabins that were used during the Revolutionary War.
Philadelphia Wedding Venue Photo Locations
If you are a couple that prefers to stay on site for your wedding portraits, there are still plenty of options at the venue. As a photographer, I always recommend using your venue for photo locations for a few reasons:
- It’s very likely you chose your venue because you loved the style and look of it. So why not have that captured in your wedding photos.
- It saves you time. Wedding day’s FLY by. It feels like a time warp. So, you don’t want to be wasting your day traveling around if you don’t have to.
- It’s what your venue does. Everything they design and do at the venue is to create the aesthetic you fell in love with when you booked. They created these spaces and unique features for YOU.
Philander Chase Knox Estate
If you are looking for a great spot to do a first look, follow the path past the venue down to the creek where there is a small wooden foot bridge. This bridge is out of the way, so there is virtually no chance of running into wedding guests while you have an emotional moment with your partner. There is also a tiny grove of trees that are perfect for couples’ portraits.
My personal favorite: a tiny, enchanted door hidden in the side of a hillside covered with greenery. I love this little spot for my wedding couple’s portraits, but it can be a bit small for bridal parties. For your formal portraits with your wedding party there is a gorgeous, whitewashed stone wall. The simplistic background is absolutely stunning for those classic wedding day photographs. The area is big enough to fit large bridal parties, and families and is still steps away from the estate building. And finally, If you love plants and greenery, there is a shabby-chic greenhouse. I love this as a great backdrop for sunset photos!
My thoughts on this Philadelphia Wedding venue
I LOVE this quiet venue in the hills of Valley Forge Historic Park. It feels so private and secluded which I think is great for couples who love the feel of an intimate wedding. The venue has amazing views and is set up to have everything in one space, making it convenient for the modern couple!
If you love this venue and want to read more about local venues and wedding options- check out my blog on wedding chapels! Philadelphia Wedding Chapels- A List of the Best | Jessica Lauren
