by Nicole Loughan

The Delaware Valley is the place to go if you want something old, something borrowed, something blue and something completely new. Those who choose to get married nearby get their choice of majestic castles or picturesque gardens, but there are a few places tucked away for the bride and groom looking for something different. Read on to see a few unexpected places to tie the knot .

1Literary Love

Photo by Faith West

For book aficionados what could be better than a wedding at the home of a Pulitzer Prize-Winning Novelist? The home of Pearl S. Buck, the famed writer of “The Good Earth,” is nestled in a country setting in Perkasie, PA. The home was once her writing sanctuary. Today, it is used as a historic literary destination, with offices and various event spaces. The property offers opportunities for gorgeous photographs in a green garden and views of her historic stone residence. Ceremonies can be held underneath the stone arches of the breezeway of the main home, or in one of the perfectly manicured gardens. Cocktail hour can be held in the Estate Pavilion.

2For Christmas Lovers

Byers’ Choice, home of the famous Byers’ Choice Caroler figurines, could be the site for a dream wedding. For ceremonies on site, there is a reception area for up to 300 guests in the formal “Gardens at Byers’ Choice.” The grounds adjacent to the figurine museum and shop are beautifully maintained with views of splashing fountains, an elaborate iron gate, stone terrace and rolling lawns. Unique statues on the property offer several photo opportunities for the bridal party. To check out the Byers’ Choice Museum and see more than 400 statuettes in various winter settings you can go to 4355 County Line Road, Chalfont.

3 A Historic Match

Photo Provided by Washington Crossing and Cabin Communications. Photo by Andy Smith

If you love history, Washington Crossing Historic Park could be the place for your nuptials. The park, named for the 1776 event where General George Washington and his men crossed Delaware during the War for Independence, is also a beautiful place to have a wedding. The park boasts more than 500 acres of history. It has many venues available for rent like the Riverview Lobby which can host 150 people standing or 50 seated, and offers scenic views of the Delaware River in a modern setting. There are also several pavilions available for rent with room for more than 100 people. This historic location is available for rent by calling 215-493-4076.

4 A Wild Wedding

Megan Keller Photography

Everybody knows you can go to the Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown to feed the giraffes, see the jaguars snuggle and get up close and personal with the exotic birds, but not everybody knows you can go there to there for human antics. The zoo has both indoor and outdoor wedding venues. They can create a unique experience for guests, by adding animal feedings, zoo tours, encounters and more. The I Do’s can be said in many unique places such as in front of an eagle lookout deck, duck pond or bison exhibit archway. Receptions are typically held in the Canopy Gardens, a climate controlled space for up to 150 guests. It features floor-to-ceiling window doors that are fully retractable. The Elmwood Park Zoo is located just outside of Bucks County at 1661 Harding Blvd, Norristown, PA.