Lauren and Phillip got married at Elkins Estate on June 29, 2024.
The Proposal
In May 2023, Phil proposed to Lauren on their balcony overlooking the Tennessee River, with their Shih Tzu, Ernie, by their side. The intimate moment perfectly reflected their love and marked the beginning of their journey toward a lifetime together.

[RELATED: The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Venues in New Jersey]
Details of the Day
Set against the fairytale backdrop of Elkins Estate, Phillip and Lauren’s wedding was a stunning blend of old-world grandeur and heartfelt touches. From a marble checkered dance floor and gilded details to a raw bar carved into ice, the celebration was filled with one-of-a-kind moments.

The wedding featured a black watch tartan-inspired color scheme, blending classic elegance with a touch of personal flair.

Guests were treated to an exquisite menu that reflected the couple’s love for fine dining. The celebration also included a 13-piece band, karaoke and a decadent dessert spread, making it a night full of unforgettable moments.

Choosing the Venue
Phillip and Lauren chose Elkins Estate for its timeless elegance and personal significance.

The venue’s stunning architecture, marble checkered floors, and grandeur provided the perfect setting for their dream wedding. It offered both intimacy and luxury, making it the ideal place to celebrate their love with family and friends.

Favorite Moment
One of the most memorable moments came when Lauren surprised Phil with a heartfelt serenade.

She sang “Make You Feel My Love” by Adele in honor of her parent’s 33rd wedding anniversary, echoing the song her father had serenaded her mother with on their wedding night. The emotional moment touched everyone and perfectly captured the love of the day.

Detail They Couldn’t Live Without
One detail Phillip and Lauren couldn’t live without was the personalized decoupage oyster shell ornaments they gifted guests. These ornaments, which symbolized their annual Christmas tradition of picking a new ornament to commemorate the year, added a deeply personal touch to their celebration.

Wedding Day Attire
Lauren’s wedding dress was a stunning, one-of-a-kind creation by Rita Vinieris. The gown’s intricate lace detailing and elegant silhouette perfectly complemented the grandeur of the venue, making Lauren feel like a true vision of bridal beauty. It was a breathtaking choice that reflected both her style and the magical atmosphere of the day.

Sign up for our Something New newsletter for weekly wedding ideas, inspiration and advice from New Jersey Bride—sent right to your inbox!
Photo Gallery
Phillip and Lauren's vendor team
Elkins Estate is a 42-acre architecturally rich estate conveniently located outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This historic manor has beauty throughout every detail of the space. Overnight accommodations ...