Written By Tara Banninger
It is estimated that 1 out of 10 U.S weddings are destination weddings. Most of us think of Hawaii , Jamaica, or a European villa when we hear those words. But, what if a unique, romantic, and truly memorable location could be found closer to home?
Jim Thorpe, PA – a town tucked away on the western edge of the Poconos, offers a unique backdrop. The town’s Victorian architecture and rich history creates an air of romance not easily found or duplicated.
If a traditional church ceremony is not your thing, you can exchanged vows at the historic Mauch Chunk Opera House, among the art at the Anita Shapolsky Gallery, at the Train Station, on the train itself as it rides into Lehigh Gorge State Park and back, or in one of many local parks including Kemmerer Park on Front Hill.
The possibilities for a unique wedding here are endless. The beauty of nature that surrounds it adds a rustic elegance and sense of outdoor adventure, while the many art galleries and unique local shops give just the right touch of sophistication.
There is no shortage of wedding photo opportunities with historic landmarks like the Old Jailhouse Museum that once held the Molly Maguires, the Asa Packer and Harry Packer Mansions, the Kemmerer Carriage House, and the train station all within walking distance.
And, who can forget the Inn at Jim Thorpe, the restored historical gem of Broadway that once played host to dignitaries like Ulysses S. Grant, US presidents William Taft and Teddy Roosevelt, and Thomas Edison. For an elegant and intimate reception, there is the meticulously restored Mauch Chunk Ballroom that features a wedding planner to assist with the many details involved in a destination wedding.
Whether you are looking for a unique, rustic, elegant, adventurous, or sophisticated affair, Jim Thorpe has it all. It’s your premiere destination wedding location close to home.
Tara Banninger is a local wedding planner and owner of Jim Thorpe Weddings & Events (www.jimthorpeweddings.net), the exclusive manager of the Mauch Chunk Ballroom space (www.mauchchunkballroom.com) and producer of the Jim Thorpe Wedding Expo (www.jtweddingexpo.com). For more information about weddings in Jim Thorpe & The Ballroom, you can contact her at info@jimthorpeweddings.net or by calling 484-629-5070.
We LOVE Jim Thorpe and all it has to offer!!! My husband proposed to me there on my 30th birthday and we decided it was a good idea to get married there. Everything about it is beautiful–from the views of the mountains to a ride along the Delaware River on a steam engine. It’s a perfect backdrop for a romantic wedding.