The Excelsior is a hidden gem. I was searching high and low for a venue that was classy and elegant but not stuffy. Slightly historical but not ornate. Various hidden areas for pictures but yet had a great flow to the day. I honestly can’t tell you exactly how I found The Excelsior because I don’t remember but it was an absolute perfect match for my October bride. I remember traveling to Lancaster as a kid for family vacations and let me tell you-Lancaster is not all Amish country. Their downtown area (where the Excelsior is) is bustling with cool shops, restaurants, and cafes. I definitely got an Asheville, NC vibe when I was walking around down there.
I love The Excelsior so much that I want to share it with you! I asked the owner, Kelly and John, to share some insight about their venue:
Kris Mae Photography
What sets your venue apart from others?
What differentiates Excelsior from other venues is it’s one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Unlike anything you may have seen, this intriguing property combines classic architectural features blended with modern design throughout six different connecting spaces. Refreshing outdoor green areas and fascinating Brewer’s catacombs enhance the overall experience to create a multifaceted venue.
Why should I get married at the Excelsior?
There are basically 3 reasons “WHY Excelsior”
1. If you are looking for a Sophisticated, Eclectic and Extraordinary place for a Ceremony and Reception – Excelsior is ALL that.
2. If you are looking for a venue that offers your guests a myriad of amenities and activities that are ALL within WALKING distance to your venue – Excelsior is located right in the heart of Downtown Lancaster, PA. Within 7 blocks of Excelsior, there are so many Hotels, B&Bs Restaurants, Bars, Clubs, Boutiques, Galleries, Museums, Parks a Farmers Market, Amtrak, Uber, Parking Garages, etc.
3. If you want one wedding venue ALL to yourself with no other events taking place simultaneously – Excelsior is all yours to host a private event that gloriously unfolds from the morning into the evening.
Kris Mae Photography
What is your favorite part of your venue?
My favorite part of Excelsior is the entire venue vibe – when I get to experience the total journey of each event – from the very first meeting all the way to the day-of. It is a collaborative, creative and transforming process that involves the couple, their friends and families, the caterer, their wedding planner and wedding vendors. I am happy to say that my “event appreciation” continues to grow as I gain knowledge from all the client/couples I get to work with. I am fascinated to watch every event become a unique interpretation of the Bride & Groom though their love and gratitude for one another throughout their wedding event planning process.
Kris Mae Photography
What is one piece of advice you would give to bride and grooms as they are planning their weddings?
Hire a professionally certified, experienced Wedding Planner who will help to guide you every step of the way. Or at the very least hire a Day-of Wedding Coordinator. With a Planner, you will be able to feel confident throughout your wedding planning process and relax to enjoy the week before your wedding day. On the Day-of you will be completely stress-free of duties during all the set-ups and be able to fully enjoy yourselves and your guests on the most important day of all – your wedding day.
Kris Mae Photography
