Mariann & Eric – June 8, 2024 – The Barn at Walnut Grove | Lehigh Valley Wedding Photographer & Videographer

Some love stories begin with a swipe and a smile, and from that single moment, an entire lifetime unfolds.

Mariann and Eric's wedding at The Barn at Walnut Grove was one of those celebrations that reminded us why we do what we do. Not because it was flawless or trendy or Instagram-perfect, but because it was theirs. Joyful. Grounded. Full of the kind of laughter that echoes through a rustic Pennsylvania barn and stays with you long after the last dance.

We’re looking back on their wedding day with that anniversary kind of gratitude—the kind that reminds you the best weddings aren’t performances. They’re real-life, love-your-people, choose-each-other-on-purpose kind of days.

a love that started with a smile

Eric will tell you he fell for Mariann's smile first.

They met on Bumble, a modern beginning to a timeless kind of love. What started as conversations on a screen quickly became long talks about travel, faith, and the three little shih tzus that would eventually become their shared joy: Polly, Cassie, and Cailey. Mariann and Eric found in each other a partner for adventure and a companion for the quiet, sacred moments, morning devotionals, lazy Sundays with the dogs curled up between them, plans for where they would go next.

When Eric decided to propose, he chose something as joyful and buoyant as Mariann herself: a hot air balloon ride. High above the world, with nothing but sky and possibility around them, he asked her to marry him.

She said yes, of course she did.

the barn at walnut grove

Tucked into the rolling hills of Berks County, The Barn at Walnut Grove is the kind of venue that feels like it has always been there, rustic, welcoming, and effortlessly beautiful. The red barn, the open fields, the stone fireplace inside that becomes the heart of every reception, it is a space that honors heritage while making room for new stories to unfold.

For Mariann and Eric, it was the perfect backdrop. Not too formal. Not too fussy. Just warm, genuine, and full of character, much like the two of them.

This was actually our first time shooting at The Barn at Walnut Grove—and we loved getting to experience it with Mariann & Eric. It’s a newer, family-run venue, and you can feel that hands-on care in the way the day flows and the property is kept—warm, welcoming, and genuinely personal.

Even on a first visit, we were reminded why this venue works so well for couples who want their day to feel personal rather than produced. The light that spills through the barn doors at golden hour. The way the stone and wood textures add depth to every frame. The fact that you can step outside and find yourself in the middle of Pennsylvania countryside, with nothing but green fields and open sky.

It is a venue that does not demand attention, it simply holds space for love to be celebrated.

moments that mattered

Mariann got ready surrounded by the women who raised her, loved her, and cheered her on. Her mother helped her into her gown, a delicate lace dress that felt both classic and entirely her own. There were tears. There was laughter. There was the kind of quiet intimacy that happens when a daughter becomes a bride and a mother lets go, just a little.

Eric, meanwhile, was calm. Steady. The kind of groom who is not nervous because he is certain, certain of Mariann, certain of this choice, certain that this is exactly where he is meant to be.

Their ceremony was held outdoors, with the barn as their witness and their people gathered close. Mariann walked toward Eric with that smile, the one he fell for first, and we watched as he saw her, really saw her, and his own face broke into pure joy.

The vows were personal. The readings were meaningful. And when they were pronounced husband and wife, the cheers that erupted were loud enough to reach the hills beyond.

Alice Yates, their florist, created arrangements that were vibrant and full of life—bright blooms that popped against the rustic wood and stone of the venue. Mariann's bouquet was a mix of bold color and soft texture, and it showed up beautifully in every portrait we captured.

The reception was where the real magic happened. Mariann and Eric are the kind of couple who know how to celebrate, and their guests followed their lead. The first dance was tender and unhurried, a moment where the room seemed to hold its breath. But it was the dancing that came after—the twirls with her mother, the bear hugs from his father, the conga line that snaked through the barn—that told the full story of who they are.

These are people who love big. Who laugh loud. Who do not take a single moment for granted.

the birds of a feather perspective

We’re here for the real stuff—the hugs that linger, the happy tears that surprise you, the “can you believe this is our life?” looks you’ll still be talking about years from now.

Mariann & Eric’s day was extra special because it felt so family-led—less “production,” more “everyone we love is right here.” That energy changes everything. It softens the timeline, relaxes shoulders, and makes the photos feel like home.

And then there’s the setting. The Barn at Walnut Grove gives you that best-of-both-worlds vibe—rustic warmth inside, and a garden-forward outdoor space that feels timeless year after year. It’s the kind of backdrop that won’t date your memories; it just lets them breathe.

With 15 years in this work as a family-led studio, we show up calm, steady, and fully invested. We shoot in a way that’s cinematic yet timeless, emotional yet effortless—because your legacy deserves more than trends. If you’re looking for a Lehigh Valley wedding photographer who’ll guide you gently, capture the candid moments, and still make space for those classic portraits your future selves will treasure, we’d love to connect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is The Barn at Walnut Grove located?
The Barn at Walnut Grove is located in Lenhartsville, Pennsylvania, in the heart of Berks County. It is easily accessible from the Lehigh Valley, Allentown, and Reading areas, making it a convenient yet peaceful escape for couples and their guests.

What is the capacity at The Barn at Walnut Grove?
The venue can comfortably accommodate up to 200 guests for a seated reception, making it ideal for both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations.

Can you have an outdoor ceremony at The Barn at Walnut Grove?
Yes! The venue offers beautiful outdoor ceremony spaces with rolling hills and open fields as your backdrop. There is also an indoor option available in case of inclement weather.

What is included with a rental at The Barn at Walnut Grove?
The venue provides tables, chairs, and access to the property for your entire event day. The rustic barn interior features a stunning stone fireplace, exposed beams, and ample space for dining and dancing. Many couples also take advantage of the scenic grounds for portraits.

Is The Barn at Walnut Grove a good fit for rustic-themed weddings?
Absolutely. The venue's natural charm, the red barn, the wooden details, the countryside setting, lends itself beautifully to rustic, farm-inspired, or organic wedding styles. It is a blank canvas that allows couples to add their own personal touches.

What time of year is best for a wedding at The Barn at Walnut Grove?
The venue is stunning year-round, but spring and fall are particularly popular due to the mild weather and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Late spring blooms and autumn foliage create breathtaking backdrops for both ceremonies and portraits.

If you are newly engaged in the Lehigh Valley and are looking for vendors that you can trust, we would be honored to work with you! Our family team can only take on a limited number of weddings each year and we would love for yours to be one of them. Please reach out to me, Tassia: at Hello@birdsofafeatherphotography.com or visit our website at www.birdsofafeatherphotography.com.