Earth Blossoms Flowers: Weddings at Eolia Mansion/Harkness State Park, Waterford, CT

When I grew up down the street it was known as "Harkness".

My friends and I spent many days here wandering around the beautiful lawn with the shade trees, the daffodils in the spring and the gorgeous view of the ocean. They never allowed swimming here but I would bring my dog and she would swim in the ocean and run around the lawn there were no leash laws then. I think the mansion and the surrounding gardens etc were in disrepair and no one was allowed near them.

Out on the beach at Harkness with my black lab pup "Nike" 1979

Now it is beautifully revitalized and the most fortunate couples get to have their wedding ceremonies and receptions here. Some of what I loved about the freedom of wandering around Harkness when I was young is now gone but the improvements have been made to benefit the general public. I remember when the first “dogs must be on leash” sign went up and they started to charge for parking - I was shocked. But the same old copper beech trees are here, the ocean with the view of the ledge lighthouse, the endless and gorgeous green lawn and of course the beach.

View of Long Island Sound from the patio at Eolia

The Wisteria blooming on the pergola in May

Eolia Mansion

So far in wedding season 2012 at Earth Blossoms we have had two weddings at Harkness and both included lots of ivory and blush peonies. Perfect flowers in a truly perfect setting.

My Mother was born in Waterford and I was, too and unfortunately Harkness was not our family estate! Here are some photos of the two Spring 2012 weddings. I can’t wait to see the professional photos from these events. I am sure they will be even more gorgeous!