Pleasantdale Chateau Wedding Photography
Meet the Dream Team Behind the Lens: Ishan & Preeti (AKA Ishan Fotografi)
Hey there, lovebirds! We’re not just your average photographers – we’re Ishan and Preeti, a husband-and-wife duo with cameras in hand and hearts full of passion for capturing your story. Think of us as your NJ wedding day hype crew, documenting all the laughter, the tears, and those stolen glances that speak louder than words. We’re also New York wedding photographers, so if you’re planning a celebration across the state line, we’ve got you covered!
The Magic of Pleasantdale Chateau: Why Couples and Photographers Love It
Picture this: Old-world grandeur meets modern elegance. That’s the magic of Pleasantdale Chateau, a venue filled with character, history, and grace. From the moment you pass through the ivy-covered gates and drive down the scenic road, your fairytale wedding begins. This acclaimed venue is a dream come true for couples seeking a timeless and elegant setting.
Location, History, & Architectural Delights
Nestled in West Orange, a charming suburb just outside New York City, Pleasantdale Chateau boasts a rich legacy. The estate dates back to 1835 and was originally designed as a peaceful retreat for a noted American industrialist. Its French-inspired architecture, particularly the Norman style reminiscent of the French countryside, makes it a one-of-a-kind setting. The Knowles family, owners since 1994, ensure this extraordinary space and its 40 acres of gardens, woodlands, and meadows remain a haven for unforgettable weddings.
The Chateau’s authentic details, featured in TV shows and movies like “The Sopranos,” will transport you to another era. From the 17th-century Spanish tile floors to the intricate limestone columns and opulent chandeliers, a sense of history permeates the mansion.
The Grand Ballroom & Other Enchanting Spaces
The self-supported Grand Ballroom, with its arches, columns, and glass dome ceiling, is a breathtaking space. It’s ideal for weddings of any size, accommodating up to 350 guests. Ishan particularly loves capturing the natural light streaming into this unique room, highlighting the joy on your faces.
But the beauty doesn’t end there! There’s the Mediterranean-style fountain room, the botanical garden overflowing with lush greenery, and can we talk about the indoor pool? With its lion-head fountains, mosaic pillars, and glass ceilings, it’s a true showstopper! (This is where we captured those unforgettable first-look photos for one of our recent couples!)
Your Dream Pleasantdale Wedding: Photo Locations & Inspiration
The Chateau’s Grand Gardens:
We both agree, there’s something truly special about saying “I do” under a canopy of lush greenery, with sunlight dappling through the leaves. The expansive gardens at Pleasantdale Chateau offer a variety of stunning locations for your wedding ceremony and portraits. Imagine capturing romantic first looks amidst the blooming flowers, or the pure joy on your faces as you gather your entire wedding party for a group photo on the manicured lawns.
Romantic Ceremony Spots:
Pleasantdale Chateau boasts several enchanting ceremony locations to suit your vision. Preeti loves the elegant porte-cochère, a grand covered entrance that exudes timeless charm, for exchanging vows. It creates such a dramatic and romantic scene. For a more intimate ceremony, the secluded Rose Garden provides a peaceful setting surrounded by fragrant blooms.
Indoor Elegance: Even More Photo Opportunities
The mansion’s interior is just as stunning, ensuring beautiful photos rain or shine. Imagine twirling on the dance floor beneath the ballroom’s grand dome, or stealing a quiet moment in the greenhouse filled with exotic plants and dappled sunlight.
Hidden Gems for Unique Couple Portraits
Look beyond the obvious for truly unique and personal wedding photos at Pleasantdale Chateau. The historic architecture offers a wealth of hidden nooks and crannies, perfect for capturing intimate moments between you and your love. Sneak away for a romantic stroll through the secluded wooded areas, or pose amidst the ivy-covered stone walls for a touch of timeless elegance.
Capturing Different Wedding Styles at Pleasantdale Chateau
Our Approach: Real, Raw, and Ridiculously Fun
We’re all about those genuine moments – the belly laughs, the happy tears, the way your dad looks at you when you walk down the aisle. Our style is a blend of timeless portraiture and candid magic. We’ll guide you through the posed stuff (because let’s be honest, grandma wants those classic shots!), but we’ll also be there to capture the in-between moments that make your NJ wedding truly yours.
A Fairytale Wedding Experience
The Pleasantdale Chateau staff is truly committed to ensuring each wedding is customized to perfection. Their attention to detail and flexibility means they can flawlessly execute everything from intimate elopements to lavish celebrations, including same-sex, Asian, Indian, and Jewish weddings.
With 30 luxurious guest rooms in both the main house and Petite Chateau, your guests can enjoy a hotel-like experience filled with antique charm. The venue’s serene landscape, organic produce for your customized menu, and additional amenities like in-room massages and a barbershop make it easy for everyone to feel pampered. The optional foot massages are definitely a crowd-pleaser after a night on the dance floor!
Need a Dose of NJ Wedding Inspiration?
Look no further! We’ve seen it all at Pleasantdale Chateau, from intimate elopements in the gardens to grand ballroom celebrations, and even vibrant Indian weddings. We love the cultural details, the large ceremonies, and the energetic celebrations that come with capturing these beautiful traditions.
Feeling overwhelmed by wedding planning? Don’t worry, we’ve been there! Let’s chat about your vision, and we’ll help you bring it to life with photos that will tell your unique story for generations to come.
Ready to start the adventure? Let’s chat!
