Story by Katie Melynn
Photos by Brookelynn Photography
Nestled amid the country in Cecil County is the Gardens at Bethlehem Farm. With a history as a working farm since the 1800s, the property is now home to event spaces, stunning gardens and a barn infused with the special memories of countless couples.
Owners Linda and Tim Pierce have turned this historic property into an idyllic wedding venue. As they learned the ins and outs of the wedding industry, they discovered what it took to turn a bride and groom’s vision into a reality that they could share with their guests.
Creating your dream wedding
The majority of wedding planning happens early in the timeline leading up to the big day. Linda recommends starting by finding someone who can help guide you through the process. Establishing a budget is also helpful in the early stages of wedding planning and a coordinator can provide realistic ideas of what you can expect to pay to make your vision a reality.
Linda knows how important this step is, which is why packages at the Gardens at Bethlehem Farm include a coordinator. This person is there to make sure every detail goes according to plan and to take those minute tasks off your plate, freeing you up to enjoy the day.
When ready to book your wedding location, it helps to look early, especially if you have a specific date in mind. But keeping an open mind might help you make the most of your budget and have more choices.
“If you are flexible with your date you will have more options,” Linda said. “But if you have a very specific date that you will not budge on then you will need to choose a venue early in your planning to secure your favorite venue.”
It’s equally important to find a venue that fits not just your style but one that keeps you comfortable.
“Having a venue to yourselves brings a calmness and will ensure you have a private event making it that much more special,” she says.
Creating an experience
Whether you’re planning a large wedding or a more intimate gathering, a memorable wedding is all about creating an experience for guests that celebrates the love of the bride and groom. Look for ways to let your personal style shine through, but don’t underestimate the power of an amazing story.
“We’re a 7th generation family farm,” Linda said. “During the events, I can envision all the memories within these walls. It makes me happy to be able to share our little slice of heaven with each couple and their loved ones.”
When they opened as an event space in 2016, the Pierces wanted to bring the same sense of family
A large banquet area for the reception coupled with a separate area for the ceremony helps a specific vision come to life. It also reduces the transitions to plan for, since everything can be set-up ahead of time. Guests are free to flow from one area to the next as the day unfolds, focusing on celebrating rather than moving tables and chairs.
“We are equipped to hold your ceremony, cocktail hour and reception all under one roof in three separate spaces,” Linda said.
Each one is unique, with details like lighting, elegant draping, and, in the case of the banquet hall, a stunning chandelier hanging in the middle. The barn doors also open, displaying the vibrant landscape beyond.
Linda shares that most couples opt for the classic wedding, which includes bridal suites, a ceremony space complete with lights and draping, as well as a dedicated cocktail reception area and the grand banquet space. But just like each couple is unique, the needs for each wedding is unique, so the Gardens at Bethlehem Farm also has options for more intimate events.
“It’s so idyllic. I love the rustic and cozy feel,” Linda said. “I love the sense of family and closeness during each event. They have to come and experience it to know if it’s going to fit their dream.”
You can learn more about the Gardens at Bethlehem Farm, including wedding packages and how to book your date, by visiting their website at https://thegardensatbf.com.
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