Kennett Square dairy farm to undergo million renovation to transform into a wedding venue.
In the Philadelphia area, couples seeking unique wedding venues will soon have an exciting new option. A former dairy barn in Kennett Square is set to undergo a significant transformation, with a planned renovation budget of million. This expansive event space, named Willowdale, is anticipated to open its doors by September 2026.
The Jeffrey A. Miller (JAM) Hospitality Group, a well-established catering and event management company based in Philadelphia, announced plans to revitalize the property last week. JAM currently operates over a dozen venues across the region, including notable locations such as the American Swedish Historical Museum in FDR Park and the Curtis Arboretum in Wyncote. The group aims to create a luxurious venue at Willowdale that is capable of accommodating up to 300 guests.
As part of the renovation efforts, the team will renovate the existing dairy barn, a nearby farmhouse, and the property’s extensive outdoor spaces. The farmhouse is designed to feature eight bedrooms, nine bathrooms, and two private suites for bridal parties. Couples will have the option to host their ceremonies either within the renovated barn or outdoors, selecting from picturesque locations such as a stone-walled courtyard or a lush lawn that overlooks the scenic steeplechase course.
The event space will also include a cocktail hour area nestled in an outdoor garden, along with a modern indoor lounge featuring a built-in bar. The main receptions and dinner gatherings will be hosted in an elegant lofted hall adorned with willow-leaf chandeliers and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, offering breathtaking views of the surroundings.
Ownership of the Willowdale property lies with Katherine and Michael Bucklin, who are collaborating with JAM and various local partners to bring this adaptive reuse project to life. Their goal is to maintain the site’s historical integrity while enhancing its role as a community gathering space.
The rich history of the property dates back to Katherine Bucklin’s father, Dixon Stroud, who transitioned the land from a working farm to a producer of milk and ice cream for their family-owned convenience store, Landhope Farms, renowned for its local products. This establishment, which started selling milk at 89 cents per gallon in 1969, has since grown into a small chain and continues to hold significance in the local community.
Bookings for Willowdale are currently being accepted, and interested couples are encouraged to visit the venue’s website for more information. As the region evolves with new wedding options, Willowdale is poised to become a cherished destination for couples looking to create lasting memories.
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