A Mansion Marvel

Amanda and Eric, doctorial candidates at Harvard, have a love for all things Geological, and they stunningly imbibed their nuptails with classic touches to reflect their passion for their profession.  From table markers, to a gorgeous and unique bridal bouquet and groom’s boutinerre, geological specimens were resplendent.  (And I have to mention the quirky and delicious “rock chocolates” that Mom Cheryl found in the strip district for the favor boxes.) 

Held at The Mansion in Butler, the gardens were so beautiful and lush for the ceremony and cocktails, and the weather couldn’t have been custom ordered to be more perfect.  A little known fact about The Mansion is that the property contains specimens of every tree native to America, and those trees make such a beautiful backdrop for wedding ceremonies.

I know what you are thinking…STUNNING.  Hence why this post will be picture rich. 

After the nuptial ceremony, cocktails and appetizers were served on the patio overlooking the gardens.   A display graced with mercury glass and candelight of organic vegetable crudite, cheeses and crackers and fresh fruit selections was enjoyed while JPC Event staff handbutlered other delicacies.  Passed items included our popular Brie Mushroom Bisque in espresso cups with baby bella mushroom garnish, crabcake martinis, and an assortment of spinach florentine, roasted vegetable and four cheese phyllo quiches.

Meanwhile, inside the mansion, the tables had been set pristinely with gorgeous taffeta Colchester Pintuck linens in platinum with silver charger plates, and cashmere duchess satin napkins ringed with custom ribbon and floral napkins rings handmade by the bride and her “assistants.”  With gorgeous lush bontanicals and florals by Blooms of Pittsburgh, the gorgeousness kept coming.  High centerpieces, low centerpieces, mercury glass candle formations with moss and succulents… I know…you’re saying, “just show us the goodness! “

And then the amazing geological table markers… so unique and personal.

Dinner was served in a three course format of Fall harvest bounty.  Salad course was comprised of local organic spring mix with pears, chevre cheese, and sliced almonds dressed with JPC house balsamic dressing.  Next up was our savory butternut squash ravioli course in brown butter with garnishes of crispy sage, hazelnuts and asiago cheese- one of my personal favorites.  The dinner course featured an apricot, cherry and apple stuffed breast of chicken with port wine reduction and a shallot cherry puree which was simply delicious, and accented by olive oil roasted asparagus with lemon rind zest and pinenuts, along side our harvest blend of herb roasted yukon gold, yam and sunset fingerling potatoes. 

Following dinner, Amanda and Eric cut their cake and JPC Event staff butlered champagne for toasting.  The couple did a marvelous job of ballroom dancing during their first dance to the sound of a live jazz band.  The wedding cake that I created mirrored the bodice of Amanda’s beautiful wedding gown with white chocolate fondant, silver lustred garnishes, and silver lustred hand cut hydrangea blossoms.  The flavor profile was red velvet with cream cheese glaze, and wedding white cake with fresh berries and creme.  For Eric’s University of Illinois groom’s cake, I was instructed the more CHOCOLATE the better, and the flavor profile was dark chocolate with a layer of chocolate ganache and a layer of chocolate truffle.  DELICIOUS.

It was bittersweet saying good bye to Amanda and Eric, and Mr. & Mrs. Hughes, as Rick and I have absolutely adored working with them to create their wonderful celebration.  Thank you all for being such gracious clients and for allowing us creative input into the linen and menu choices.  We truly wish the best for you Amanda and Eric, and hope for such amazing happiness for you both throughout your future together!

Blog Photographic credit: JPC Event Group, Jody Wimer and Caitlyn Wimer
Venue: The Mansion, Butler PA  724.586.6171
Linens, china, charger plates and bar equipment, catering services: JPC Event Group
Wedding and groom’s cake: Jody Wimer, JPC Event Group
Florals: Blooms
Event Photographer: Kristen Penner Photography