We almost didn’t get to photograph Devon & Sean’s wedding day, but fate intervened. When we first met, we instantly clicked and I was excited to hear more about their plans! Anyone who knows me, knows that I am always excited to be a part of any Cescaphe wedding, but when these two amazing people told me they would be the last wedding that the Cescaphe team would be hosting at the Atrium at the Curtis Center, you know I was practically salivating. But not long after that initial meeting, I got an email from Devon saying that they had to go in a different direction.
Cue the opening scene of Bridget Jone’s Diary, starring Ashley Gerrity. (Can you tell it’s been a Netflix and blankets kind of off-season?)
But in all seriousness, when a few short months before their wedding, Devon reached back out to say that she and Sean had re-evaluated the wedding plan and they absolutely wanted me to be there on their wedding day, if I was still available. I am so glad that I was available, because this wedding is to DIE for!
Getting Ready at the Hilton Penn’s Landing
Devon looked absolutely breathtaking in her blush & lace Eddy K wedding gown with hair & makeup by C.E. Facial Artistry. Every last detail of this wedding was carefully curated and elegant. The invitation suite that Devon had selected on Minted was classic and clean. The marbled foil detailing introduced just a little bit of shine. She accessorized with delicate but glistening diamond bracelets and earrings that perfectly complemented her oval cut engagement ring with beautiful pave diamonds on the band.
In another room, Sean & his groomsmen were still celebrating the Eagle’s super bowl win with groomsmen gifts that would make any Philadelphia fan proud. As he got into his perfect tailored suit and pulled himself together, we saw a different side of Sean. The dashing, debonair, James Bond side of Sean. We are excited to proclaim that 2018 will be the year of the impeccably dressed groom!
While we were getting ready at the Hilton Penn’s Landing, both the ladies with Devon & the guys and Sean were full of joy & energy. After a slight delay – no, it was the guys this time, we swear! – Everyone was on the way to our portraits and first look at some of the most beautiful places in old city Philadelphia.
Wedding Portraits in Old City Philadelphia
We started at the Merchant Exchange Building for first look and wedding party portraits, under threat of an ominous sky. Although it sprinkled a touch, our excitement must have scared the storms away! We had so much fun with Devon, Sean, & their wedding party. Their two ring bearers taught the groomsmen how to dance. The ladies shared in lots of excited giggling. Then we sent the wedding party back to the bus while Devon & Sean crossed over to the First National Bank for a series of breathtaking portraits!
After our portrait session, we headed over to the Curtis Center where Vince & Francesca were heading up the Cescaphe team. If you’ve never been in a wedding at a Cescaphe venue, you might not know that we head over early for a quick wedding day walk through of the ceremony. This works out perfectly, because as guests are arriving, it gives your wedding party time for a quick snack, drink, and a little down time. But, if you are Devon & Sean, there is one thing more important than down time on the wedding day. Getting the Broad St shot!
So we called up an uber (and we got the sweetest, most excited driver ever) and sped over to Broad St to capture a portrait with Philadelphia’s iconic City Hall. I’m so glad that we pushed for these portraits, because they are AMAZING!
Ceremony & Reception at The Atrium at the Curtis Center by Cescaphe
We got back just in time for the ceremony to start. The Atrium at the Curtis Center was draped with gauzy white fabric and there were chandeliers dripping with glamour! Devon walked down the aisle and the whole room held its breath. After a sweet wedding ceremony, including a candle-lighting by the mothers and beautiful vows, it was time to kick off another epic Cescaphe party!
As the guests were enjoying the extended cocktail hour filled with amazing seafood and a beautiful ice sculpture, the Cescaphe team transformed the Atrium with elegant tablescapes. BVT Jellyroll hit the stage and began to warm up for what would be the party of a lifetime. The guests were welcomed and from the first moments, the dance floor was hopping.
Devon & Sean! We were so honored to be a part of your wedding day! Not only were the two of you amazing to photograph, but your fun-loving spirit absolutely made our night! We cannot wait to see your wedding in print – the album is already being built! We wish you a lifetime of grand parties and intimate moments to savor together.
xo Ashley
And, just in case their gorgeous photos aren’t enough for you? You can check out their beautiful wedding video by New Pace Wedding Cinema here.