Ronni & AJ's European-Inspired Wedding at Elkins Estate

Written By Alana Peritore

by Ember Event Management – Wedding Planner in Rochester, NY

For Ronni and AJ, travel has always been a defining part of their relationship. After getting engaged in Italy, they knew they wanted their wedding to capture the same sense of romance and adventure they experienced together abroad. Their vision was to create a destination-style wedding weekend for their closest family and friends without requiring everyone to travel overseas.

Although no location was initially off the table, they explored everything from Italian villas to unique venues across the United States before discovering Elkins Estate on Pinterest. They immediately fell in love with the estate's grand European architecture, old-world charm, and the feeling of having stepped into an Italian villa. With exclusive use of the property, on-site accommodations, and easy access for guests traveling from near and far, it was the perfect venue for the wedding weekend they had envisioned.

As planning began, our team helped Ronni and AJ review venue packages, logistics, and vendor options before building a team capable of bringing their vision to life. We utilized a mix of local vendors the couple could meet with during planning and Philadelphia-area professionals familiar with Elkins Estate to create a team that understood both the venue and the romantic atmosphere they hoped to achieve.

One of the biggest planning priorities was designing the reception to feel warm and intimate within the estate's grand ballroom. A serpentine-style reception layout encouraged conversation while beautifully filling the space, and dramatic cascading floral installations from Petals With Style at the ends of the tables added movement and depth throughout the room. The couple also sourced their own candles, creating the warm glow they had envisioned.

Every design decision centered around creating a romantic, European-inspired atmosphere. Hundreds of candles, lush florals, and timeless details transformed the ballroom into a space that felt both breathtaking and inviting.

Guest experience was another major focus throughout the planning process. Because Ronni and AJ wanted their loved ones to feel like they were part of a true destination wedding, we created a full wedding weekend itinerary for guests and VIP family members. Our team was on-site for both the welcome party and wedding day, ensuring every event flowed seamlessly and every guest could relax and enjoy the experience.

Photography was equally important to the couple. They wanted a blend of both digital and film photography, so the wedding timeline was carefully planned to allow for every meaningful photo opportunity while keeping the day feeling relaxed and enjoyable.

The ceremony took place inside one of Elkins Estate's beautifully adorned rooms, where Elegant Music Group created the perfect soundtrack as Ronni and AJ exchanged vows. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed an elaborate cocktail hour before making their way into the estate's grand ballroom for the reception.

As guests entered the ballroom, they were welcomed by glowing candles and lush floral installations that completely transformed the space. The dramatic lighting, elegant florals, and historic architecture created an atmosphere that perfectly reflected the couple's romantic European-inspired vision.

Once dinner and formalities concluded, the celebration continued with a packed dance floor and an incredible evening surrounded by their closest family and friends. The energy carried late into the night and made for the perfect ending to an unforgettable wedding weekend.

Ronni and AJ's wedding beautifully combined old-world elegance with an intentional guest experience. Every detail reflected their love of travel and timeless romance, creating a celebration that felt like an Italian getaway while remaining close to home.

Vendor Team

Wedding Planner: @ember_eventmanagement

Venue: @elkinsestate

DJ & Ceremony Musicians: @elegantmusicgroup

Photographer: @garrettmaynard

Super 8 Film: @brittanyfordphoto

Video: @katewillsphoto

Florist: @petalswithstyle

Hair & Makeup: @michelewildermanbridal

Suits: @stateandliberty

Tux: @ajcustomsuits

Bridesmaid Dresses: @azazieofficial 

Alana Peritore
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