The thirty-one names we'd recommend without hesitation.
We do not take commission. We do not sell vendor placement. Every name on this list has worked at least three weddings at Ashforth. Most have worked twelve. We have watched them at eleven in the morning and at eleven at night. They are the names we would give a friend.
If you arrive with a vendor not on this list, that is fine. We will work with anyone who is licensed, insured, and willing to follow our load-in protocols. The list is a recommendation, not a requirement. The one exception is planning — we require a day-of coordinator at minimum, and that requirement is operational, not financial. The estate is too large for couples to coordinate themselves on the day.
Contact each vendor directly. We do not act as an intermediary on bookings.
Photographers
Six photographers, each with at least eight weddings at the estate. We have known some of them for fifteen years.
Florists
Five florists, all garden-centric, all anti-Pinterest. The parterre rewards florals that respect its discipline.
Caterers
Five caterers across price points. Per-person figures below are 2024 averages.
Planners
Four planners across service levels. We require a day-of coordinator at minimum.
Live music + DJs
Four ensembles. The estate echoes; live music belongs here.
Officiants
Three officiants. We've worked with all of them on at least five weddings.
Episcopal priest, will travel from Philadelphia. Warm, brief, traditional liturgy when requested.
Interfaith specialist. Has officiated Hindu-Quaker, Jewish-Catholic, and humanist ceremonies here.
Secular celebrant. Excellent writer; she will work with you for weeks on the text.
Hair + Makeup
Two studios. Both travel and bring full teams.
Stationery + Calligraphy
Two studios. Both letterpress, both old-school.