1. Real Weddings

A Romantic, Sophisticated Wedding at Greystone Hall in West Chester, Pennsylvania

For the couple who met at their college library and bonded over Harry Potter, it was only fitting that Nicole Gillis (32 and an early childhood consul

For the couple who met at their college library and bonded over Harry Potter, it was only fitting that Nicole Gillis (32 and an early childhood consultant) and Nkosi Sharpe (32 and a legal technology project manager) incorporated a literary theme into their summer wedding. With a classic color palette of blush, mint and silver, they crafted a romantic and sophisticated celebration of their marriage, which took place at Greystone Hall in West Chester, Pennsylvania. Nicole and Nkosi opted for a self-uniting marriage. "This gave us the freedom to create a ceremony that was truly reflective of us as a couple," Nicole says. They said their vows on the lawn of the estate with contributions from some of their closest friends and family members. Guests enjoyed "Berry Potter" and "Tumbler of Fire" signature cocktails as they roamed the mansion's grounds during cocktail hour. At the tented reception, dining tables were swathed in lace and and adorned with candelabras, books and bouquets of peonies and succulents. After a dinner of cozy comfort foods, Nkosi surprised Nicole on the dance floor with a performance of Lenny Kravitz's "I Belong to You," with his family accompanying him on musical instruments. "Our wedding was a one in a lifetime experience and we loved sharing all the amazing memories we created that day with our closest friends and family."

Chalkboard Easel as Welcome Sign and Parasols for Guests
Nicole wore a strapless, beaded Martina Liana wedding dress and a fingertip veil. Her bridesmaids wore strapless, floor length dresses in blush chiffon.
Nicole carried a bouquet with pink and white peonies, dusty miller and silver brunia on her wedding day.
The flower girl wore a white tulle dress and a pink rose flower crown in her hair. She was accompanied by the ring bearer, who wore a classic black tuxedo.
The ceremony was held in the garden at Greystone Hall.
Nicole's bridesmaids carried bouquets with white peonies, pink roses and dusty miller with their blush dresses.
Nicole and Nkosi opted for a self-uniting union at their ceremony. Their friends and family also participated in the ceremony.
Signature drinks at cocktail hour were called "Berry Potter," which was a mix of champagne, raspberry lemonade and vodka, and "Tumbler of Fire," which was bourbon.
Cocktail Hour at the Grand Greystone Hall in West Chester, Pennsylvania
Vintage Decor at Whimsical Mansion Celebration
Menu Written on Window Glass
Centerpieces at the tented reception incorporated crystal and silver candelabras, hard cover books and pastel flower arrangements. Tables were covered in lace tablecloths.
Pink and white peonies, succulents, and dusty miller filled small silver vases at the reception.
Dusty Miller and Lace at Every Seat
The three tier, white wedding cake was decorated with peach cake flowers and a silver monogram and displayed on a silver cake stand. The cake was flavored red velvet and spice.
Romantic First Dance at Tented Mansion Reception