Lauren and Daniel’s September wedding at Ashford Estate brought together everything I love about late summer celebrations in New Jersey—vibrant color, emotional intimacy, and a venue that feels like a hidden garden sanctuary.
Set across 30 acres of country estate grounds in Allentown, their day moved effortlessly from the Barn Chapel ceremony to the Grand Ballroom reception, with every corner of the property offering a new backdrop shaped by dappled light and architectural detail.
After photographing their Jersey Shore engagement session—complete with bikes and unique poses—I knew their wedding would carry that same energy: joyful, unexpected, and completely them!
Read More: The Ultimate Engagement Photo Outfit Guide for Couples
| Wedding Day Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| Couple | Lauren & Daniel Kistner |
| Wedding Date | September 13 |
| Ceremony Venue | The Barn Chapel at Ashford Estate |
| Reception Venue | The Grand Ballroom at Ashford Estate |
| Location | Allentown, NJ |
| Guest Count | 240 guests |
| Season | Late Summer |
| Color Palette | Vibrant pinks, purples, blues, whites |
Read More: This Wedding at Waterworks Philly Was Full of Pastels and Sentimental Moments
Walking Down the Aisle in the Barn Chapel
One of my favorite moments of the day was at the start of their ceremony. Lauren took one step down the aisle and immediately started bawling when she saw Daniel waiting for her. From one super emotional Lauren to another— I totally relate to wearing your heart on your sleeve!
Lauren’s full, unguarded emotion perfectly captured the love between these two and set the tone for their whole day. I caught this sweet photo of Lauren trying to hide behind her bouquet for just a second, a reflex before she let herself be seen completely.
The chapel felt alive with sound. Violinists tucked into the loft played from above, their music floating down through the rafters as loved ones laughed, cried, and celebrated below.
The floral arch behind them was a riot of late summer color—vibrant pinks, purples, blues, whites—bursting against the chapel’s rustic wood and brick.
Round of applause for this stunning masterpiece by Bloom Flower Co.!
Light, Lace, and Black-and-White Wedding Portraits
I think I delivered more black-and-white images from this wedding than I ever have! This wasn’t a stylistic choice I planned, but the pattern play created by shifting sunlight throughout the day was irresistible. The way the light moved through the estate’s canopy of trees, creating shadows across stone walls, iron gates, and Lauren’s all-lace gown, gave me so much to work with.
Lauren’s dress featured intricate lace sleeves and detailing that caught the light in a way that begged to be isolated from color. I shot portraits from literally every possible angle—against carved columns, wrought iron gates, and manicured garden arbors.
Ashford Estate’s architecture amplifies this kind of natural drama. The property is layered with textures, from stone ruins, ornate staircases, a floating gazebo, and fountains—all of it designed to catch light differently depending on where you stand.
All White Bridesmaid Dresses
I loved Lauren’s bridesmaids in these simple strapless white dresses from Dessy with an oversized bow detail. Monochromatic white is always a bold choice that can easily compete with the bride, but this dress style created the perfect contrast.
Against Lauren’s detailed lace gown and scalloped veil, the clean simplicity of their look felt intentional and elevated. The bow detail gave the girls’ look even more visual interest without pulling focus.
Wedding Reception Outfit Changes and One Unforgettable Entrance
Daniel changed before entering the reception, swapping his classic black tuxedo for a white suit jacket trimmed with a black collar. It was sharp, unexpected, and signaled a shift in energy from ceremony to celebration.
Just before the cake cutting, Lauren disappeared and returned in a floor-length white dress with a sheer overlay featuring colorful embroidered flowers that echoed their floral palette. The second dress gave her freedom to move, dance, and fully take over the reception without the weight of her ceremony gown.
Their four-tiered white wedding cake was one of my favorite reception details. The design featured small organic piping details, clean lines, a vintage cake topper, and was surrounded by the same bursting floral arrangements that had framed their ceremony.
Read More: Stunning Wedding Cake Design Inspiration from Real East Coast Weddings
Thoughtful Wedding Guest Favors That Felt Personal
Another special touch: these custom popcorn tins that doubled as guest favors! Each one featured a photo from their sweet beach engagement session at the Jersey Shore.
Read More: 5 Reasons Why Engagement Photos Are Important to Capture (And Everywhere You’ll Use Them!)
It was a small nod to where their wedding story started, packaged in a way that felt both nostalgic and useful. Custom designs like this always feel more memorable than generic favors.
Planning a Wedding at Ashford Estate in Allentown, NJ
If you’re considering Ashford Estate for your New Jersey wedding, here’s what you should know. The property spans 30 acres of immaculately preserved country estate grounds.
The Barn Chapel, Carriage House, and Grand Ballroom each offer distinct architectural character—from rustic timber beams to polished ballroom elegance. The Grand Ballroom comfortably holds up to 275 guests.
Ashford Estate Wedding Cost and Rental Options
| Ashford Estate Rental Options | In Season (May–October) | Off Season (November–April) |
|---|---|---|
| Full Estate Rental (Includes Accommodations) | ||
| Thursday | $18,000 | $15,000 |
| Friday | $27,000 | $22,000 |
| Saturday | $35,000 | $25,000 |
| Sunday | $22,000 | $20,000 |
| 5-Hour Venue + On-Site Ceremony | ||
| Thursday | $15,000 | $12,000 |
| Friday | $24,000 | $19,000 |
| Sunday | $20,000 | $18,000 |
Note: Catering not included in rental price. Saturday rentals are only available for the full estate option. Check-in: 2 PM, Check-out: 11 AM. Sundays with a holiday Monday are Friday pricing. For the most up to date info on Ashford Estate wedding cost, visit their rates page here!
The estate offers two rental structures: a full estate rental that includes overnight accommodations, or a five-hour venue rental with on-site ceremony access (not available for Saturdays).
Both options include exclusive use of the property, tables and chairs for your reception, and access to the chapel if you’re planning an on-site ceremony. Catering is handled separately through the venue’s exclusive caterer.
Nearest Airports to Ashford Estate
- Trenton Mercer Airport: Approximately 35 minutes
- Philadelphia International Airport: Approximately 1.5 hours
- Newark Liberty International Airport: Approximately 1.5 hours
For couples traveling from out of state or hosting destination-style celebrations in New Jersey, the estate’s proximity to multiple airports makes logistics easier for guests coming from the East Coast and beyond.
Why Ashford Estate Feels Like a Hidden Gem
Ashford Estate has the visual richness of a European manor without feeling overly formal or stuffy. The property’s mix of sparkling fountains, stone ruins, and secret garden pathways gives you endless options for romantic and timeless wedding photos.
The wrought iron gates, carved stone columns, and floating gazebo all photograph beautifully in shifting natural light—especially during late summer and early fall when the trees create that soft, dappled canopy.
Lauren and Daniel’s wedding made full use of the estate’s varied backdrops, and every image felt layered with texture, light, and intention.
Ashford Estate Wedding Vendors
- Catering: Merrimakers Caterers
- Venue: The Ashford Estate
- Photography: Lauren Bliss Photography
- DJ: SCE Event Group
- Florist: Bloom Flower Co
- Cake: The Bake Works NJ
- Hair: Emboldened Hair Artistry
- Makeup: Lovely Looks by Jess
- Dress Shop: Bridal Atelier Montclair, Nicole Bridal
- Bridesmaid Dresses: Dessy Group
- Stationary: Laura Nicole Walker
- Videographer: NE Film Co
Congratulations to the new Mr. and Mrs. Kistner! It was such an honor capturing your love story at the stunning Ashford Estate!
Lauren Bliss is a Philadelphia-based luxury wedding photographer capturing romantic, refined celebrations throughout the East Coast and beyond. She specializes in soft, timeless imagery for couples who value emotional connection, thoughtful design, and an elevated wedding experience. To inquire about wedding photography coverage with Lauren and her team, reach out here.
