Friday, September 26 2025 10:10

Marry at the Inn

Written by Shannon Montgomery

Where history meets happily ever after

Imagine saying your vows beneath rustic beams, celebrating with extended family in a cozy dining room, and ending the night just a few steps away from your suite. For couples seeking a romantic, intimate and stress-free wedding, an inn offers the perfect blend of charm, convenience and character.

The Brandywine Valley has several wedding-worthy inns that will make your big day feel less like an exhausting event and more like a warm, memorable getaway.

The Bookhouse at Faunbrook

Photo: Justin Johnson Photography

Bibliophiles can have the wedding of their dreams at the Bookhouse at Faunbrook. This gorgeous 1860s Federal Italianate-style mansion was reopened this spring by the folks behind Kennett Square’s Bookhouse Hotel. Surrounded by lush gardens and tall trees, the venue offers a private, magical setting that feels like a hidden gem — even though you’re steps away from downtown West Chester. Guests can stay among seven cozy, book-themed rooms, including Austen-inspired Jane’s Room, whimsical Alice’s Suite and the Shakespearean Dreamer’s Quarters. Partnered with John Serock Catering and Catalina Weddings & Events. 699 W. Rosedale Ave., West Chester. TheBookhouseAtFaunbrook.com

Brampton 1860

Photo: Abigail Hollis Photography

Say “I do” among 35 acres of landscaped gardens, meadows and forest on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. This boutique inn offers three packages for your dream wedding: the All-Inclusive Micro-Wedding for up to 20 guests, Intimate Wedding for up to 32, and Elegant Wedding for up to 125. All include a wedding coordinator, romantic ceremony in the gardens or on the terrace, and reception venue. Accommodations are available for up to 32 guests across seven spacious rooms in the 1860 manor house (on the National Registry of Historic Places) and six luxurious private cottages. Select vendors. 25227 Chestertown Rd., Chestertown, MD. BramptonInn.com

The General Warren

For a wedding with colonial charm, look no further than the historic General Warren. Say your vows fireside in the dining room, on the terrace near a 250-year-old springhouse, or by the formal garden with fountains. Then choose from four dining rooms, the Warren Tavern or four-season Spring House Terrace for your reception. Weddings with 50 to 130 guests can opt for a formal sit-down meal or stations reception. More intimate gatherings receive a private fine dining experience during dinner hours. The bridal party or out-of-town guests can stay in eight elegant suites in the 1745 inn. Onsite catering. 9 Old Lancaster Rd., Malvern. GeneralWarren.com

The Inn at Grace Winery

Marrying a wine lover? Host your wedding among 50 picture- perfect acres at this estate and vineyard. Get married in the beautifully restored 1740s barn, dining room or wooded amphitheater. While the newlyweds take photos among the vines, guests enjoy cocktail hour in the winery, followed by a reception in the rustic barn. Guests can stay in 19 rooms across the property — upstairs in the historic Quaker farmhouse, in a cozy private cottage, or in the Sweetwater House, an extra-special getaway on the far side of the vineyard. Approved caterers. 140 guests maximum. 50 Sweetwater Rd., Glen Mills. GraceWinery.com

The Inn at Swarthmore

For a hassle-free wedding planning experience, choose the Inn at Swarthmore’s complete wedding package. Have your ceremony at Swarthmore College’s gorgeous amphitheater, ranked a top 10 most beautiful college campus wedding venue. Host a quaint reception at the inn’s Sycamore Room or dance the night away in the Gathering Room. End the evening on a high note with an after-party at the onsite Broad Table Tavern. Reserve a room block of five to 20 rooms for your guests — newlyweds get a complimentary suite on their wedding night. 120 guests maximum. Preferred vendors. 10 S. Chester Rd., Swarthmore. TheInnAtSwat.com

The Mendenhall Inn

Photo: Morby Photogrpahy

For an elegant, enchanted wedding in scenic southern Chester County, marry at the Mendenhall Inn. This property is steeped in history, dating back to a land grant gifted by William Penn to his daughter, Letitia. Say “I do” on the stunning grounds, in the elegant atrium or in a ballroom. Host your reception in one of two uniquely decorated ballrooms, each with space for 300: the Grand Ballroom with a breathtaking spiral staircase or the Gold Ballroom next to the exquisite outdoor patio. Guests can stay in the award-winning 70-room hotel. Onsite catering and preferred vendors. 323 Kennett Pk., Mendenhall. MendenhallInn.com