Image credits: Sadie Osborne Photography
When we think back to some of our favourite wedding days, it’s often the smaller, more intimate celebrations that leave a lasting impression – and Jaya and Joey’s wedding weekend at the stunning Pennsylvania Castle Estate last November was one of those truly special events.
Set on the dramatic clifftops of Portland, their Pennsylvania Castle wedding was a relaxed, heartfelt gathering that spanned the whole weekend. With close friends and family staying together on the estate, it felt more like a beautiful, extended house party than a formal wedding – and the music flowed naturally throughout it all.
Having already completed their legal ceremony separately, Jaya and Joey chose not to have a traditional ceremony on the day. Instead, they wanted elegant piano music to accompany the main celebrations – and it was such a joy to be part of this unique format.
a magical first look at a pennsylvania castle wedding
One of the lounge areas in the castle featured a stunning grand piano, which quickly became the heart of the day. I began playing as guests started gathering after getting ready, offering soft, ambient music that floated throughout the main building and helped set the mood for the day to come.
Then, a truly magical moment unfolded: Joey waited in the piano room for their first look – the emotional moment when he and Jaya would see each other in their wedding outfits for the first time. I played I Giorni by Ludovico Einaudi as Jaya walked in, and the emotion in the room was so touching. It was our first time performing live for a first look, and it felt incredibly special to help soundtrack that moment.
A Ceremony Their Way
After their first look, the couple moved into a larger room in the castle for a relaxed and informal ceremony. There were no strict traditions — just a heartfelt gathering filled with meaning, and of course, music.
Jaya and Joey had chosen a mix of pieces that reflected their style and story:
- Beethoven – Sonata No. 17 (“Tempest”)
- Ludovico Einaudi – Divenire
- Radiohead – Everything in Its Right Place
- Kal Ho Na Ho
- Din Shagna Da – Jasleen Royal
It was a pleasure to perform these for them, and they created such an elegant, emotional atmosphere throughout the space.
The Beauty of a Wedding Weekend
Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed drinks, canapés, and photos in the estate’s picturesque grounds, with music continuing in the background. The atmosphere was relaxed and joyful – the kind of unhurried celebration that only a wedding weekend allows.
Many of the guests were musicians themselves, and it was wonderful to hear how much they appreciated having live piano music woven throughout the day.
This Pennsylvania Castle wedding reminded us just how perfect live music can be for smaller, more intimate celebrations. It doesn’t have to follow the traditional structure – it can float through your weekend naturally, enhancing the conversations, the emotions, and those beautifully quiet moments that often go unnoticed.
If you’re planning a wedding weekend and would love to include live piano music, we’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re after a tailored package or something completely bespoke, we’ll help bring your vision to life.
Get in touch today and let’s chat about how we can create a magical musical backdrop for your celebration.