Wedding Dress Shopping Weekend — Boiling Springs, PA (April 2023)
The start of Shayna’s dress journey — and the discovery of one of my favorite resorts.
In April 2023, we drove down to Pennsylvania for a special weekend: wedding dress shopping with Shayna in Boiling Springs. It was one of those perfect spring escapes — a little road trip, a beautiful setting, family time, and all the excitement of seeing a bride find her style. We made a full weekend out of it, and by chance we stumbled upon a place that has become one of my absolute favorite retreats: Allenberry Resort.
Arriving at Allenberry — A Hidden Gem I Didn’t Expect to Love So Much
We checked into the Allenberry Resort late Friday afternoon, and from the moment we pulled in, I had a feeling this was going to be one of those places — the ones you immediately know you’ll come back to.
Allenberry sits along the Yellow Breeches Creek, surrounded by trees, historic stone buildings, and quiet walking paths that wind through the property. It has that magical combination of charm, comfort, and understated luxury. The rooms feel cozy and refined, the grounds are beautiful, and it hit that perfect note: peaceful, elegant, and relaxing. I’ve stayed here several times since this trip, and every visit confirms how special it is.
The resort also has an onsite restaurant and an onsite spa, which made the whole weekend feel elevated and seamless. We had delicious breakfasts and dinners right at the resort when we weren’t wandering around Carlisle — no stress, no rushing, just enjoying being together.
Saturday — Brunch, Dress Shopping & a Spa Party
On Saturday morning we drove into Carlisle and had brunch at Helena’s Chocolate Café and Crêperie — the cutest little spot with incredible food and a perfect slow-morning atmosphere. After brunch we walked to the dress shop for Shayna’s 11AM appointment. There is something so emotional and joyful about watching someone you love step into wedding gowns, turning toward the mirror, lighting up, imagining the moment she’ll walk down the aisle. It felt like such a privilege to be there with her.
Arriving at Tamzens was very welcoming
This is the ONE!
After dress shopping, we headed back to Allenberry for what turned out to be a full-on spa party.
We booked massages and facials at the SCG Spa at Allenberry, and the whole afternoon became this luxurious, restorative blur of relaxation. Everyone had their own appointment slots:
Serge — 60-minute massage
Trace — 60-minute massage
Lisa — 60-minute massage
Shayna — 60-minute massage
Me — a 60-minute customized facial (heavenly)
After our treatments, Trace and Shayna checked into their hotel room, and we all had the late afternoon free for naps, lounging, and peaceful walks around the Allenberry grounds.
Dinner at The Barn at Allenberry
For dinner we stayed on property and ate at The Barn at Allenberry, which turned out to be fantastic — beautiful ambiance, great food, warm service. Another moment when I thought, “I’m absolutely coming back here.” Our friend Lauren joined us for dinner and overnight stay and brunch the next day. Her and Lisa loved the resort so much that they stayed an extra day.
Sunday — Slow Morning & Heading Home
Sunday morning we had breakfast at the hotel and lingered a bit before checking out. It was one of those departures where no one wanted to rush. We relaxed, chatted, walked the grounds one last time, and then drove home — feeling full, happy, rested, and grateful we’d shared this moment with Shayna.
Final Thoughts
This weekend was the official beginning of Shayna’s wedding journey, but it also became the weekend we discovered Allenberry Resort, which has since become one of my favorite places to escape for beauty, rest, and a touch of luxury. Beautiful dresses, deep laughter, great food, spa bliss, and the joy of being together — it was everything a spring getaway should be.
