FAQ
FAQ
COVID-19: How does the global pandemic affect The Sanctuary gatherings?
We're fortunate that The Sanctuary is already restricted in guest count to 25 people, so many of our couples have not had to alter their original plans too much. For as long as the CDC is recommending gathering size to be limited, we will follow whatever that recommended restriction as our capacity as well.
Accessibility My grandmother uses a cane, how accessible is The Sanctuary for someone with mobility challenges?
The Sanctuary is accessed through a mowed lawn with some slight slopes throughout the property. Guests witness ceremonies and travel about the property mostly on mowed grass. There are very few locations where problematic slopes are encountered. Guests should feel comfortable maneuvering on mowed grass surfaces. There are steps leading into the farmhouse. The ground-level guest bathroom is not ADA compliant.
Capacity I see that there is a 25-person capacity at The Sanctuary, does that count my fiancé/fiancée and me? What about infants and children, do they count toward the 25?
Because of the limitations of the natural space, there is a 25-person capacity to groups who gather here for ceremony and celebration. Every human who gathers for the ceremony counts toward that capacity. We don’t, however, count the professional vendors working the event (i.e. celebrant, photographer, private chef, cinematographer, acoustic musician, etc.) toward that number.
Pets Our puppy is part of our family, is The Sanctuary pet-friendly?
Yes, leashed well-behaved dogs are welcome to join at The Sanctuary gatherings. You’ll want to have someone designated to be in charge of your fur child for before and during the ceremony (it’s impossible to exchange rings and vows while pulling on a leash.)
Children Do kids count toward the capacity?
Yes, every human counts toward the 25 person capacity limit. In order to have a truly magical ceremony experience, we recommend that all toddlers and rambunctious little ones have an adult designated with the responsibility of their safety, so that the couple can focus and be present in the moment
How do most people use their time on site?
People usually use their time here like this:
9:00-11:00am Arrive at property. Organize and setup your own design elements, activities, florals, centerpieces etc.
Noon- 2:00pm Lunch served by your caterer, garden and apiary tour, nature walk
2:00- 4:00pm Hair and makeup with your stylist. Portraits and photos around the property with your photographer
4:00- 5:00pm Guests arrive. Cocktails served by your bartender. Hors’devours served by your caterer
5:30- 6:00pm Ceremony performed by your Celebrant.
6:00- 6:30pm Family photos with your photographer. Additional portraits and photos around the property.
7:00- 8:30pm Dinner served by your caterer. Toasts.
8:30- 9:00pm Cake and event finish
Is there a place for us and our families to get ready?
Some people may come here camera ready (meaning hair and makeup are done) but most will use the farmhouse for hair and makeup prep. Plan accordingly with your photographer and vendors. Please prioritize farmhouse space
Tour When can we come see the venue?
Because The Sanctuary is an outdoor experience based around our gardens and the natural surroundings, if you are interested in a tour prior to your special gathering I am happy to arrange a midweek walk through for $250. We can also schedule a free consultation to speak on the phone, Skype, or Zoom to explain my process for creating your experience and answer any questions that will help you feel comfortable with this as your ceremony location.
Music We really want to have a first dance, is that possible? How does that work?
Our number one recommendation is that couples hire a professional acoustic musician to provide the soundtrack and dreamy vibe of their big but micro day. Working with a professional musician adds one more layer of care and customer service because they will help orchestrate all those important moments so that you don't have to be directing everyone. And don't worry, we don't count the professional musician working your event toward your 20 person capacity.
Ricky Delgado
Penn Strings
Shaun Lally Music
Our second choice recommendation is that couples prepare a playlist of the songs they want to be a part of their day (for walking up the aisle, first kiss, family photos, and important dances etc.) bring a Bluetooth speaker and designate your coolest friend to be music coordinator for the celebration.
Photographers Who do you recommend for photographer? Do we have to choose someone from your list?
We're fortunate to be near so many talented, kind and skilled photographers. While you are free to hire whomever you want, we can absolutely recommend everyone listed below on account of their past performance making The Sanctuary couples gleeful.
Dearly Beloved Weddings
Storytellers and Co.
M2 Photography
Nina Lily Photography
With Love & Embers
Alison Conklin
Bethel Ann Photography
Kayce Shoffner
Jessica Manns Photography
Valor and Vine
The Hursts and Co.
Sammi Shea Photography
Madeline Isabella
Carolina Rivera
Renee Dee Photography
Video/Film These are our favorite and consistently dreamy filmmakers, *indicates photo and film packages are available.
Dearly Beloved Wedding Films*
Stagger Films*
Kristian Golick
Kevin Fonash Studios
Solidity Films
Love Sick Inc*
Live Streaming / Virtual Wedding Capabilities For couples who want guests to be able to participate in the day, hear vows, witness a first dance and toasts, check out:
Florists Are there recommended florists who can create bouquets, boutineers, and some other special arrangements for our gathering afterward?
These are our favorite!
Allium Florals & Event Designer
Bloom by Melanie
Whisper and Brook Flower Co.
Accommodations I think we’ll make a holiday out of this, where should we stay?
The Sanctuary is located in the Pocono Mountains in the town of Stroudsburg. Condé Nast Traveler Magazine recently designated the Delaware Water Gap as “the most beautiful place” in all of Pennsylvania, and we agree, there are several charming B and Bs, historic hotels and a ton of vacation rentals within minutes. Our favorite spots are under 15 minutes drive away:
Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort