Emily and Philip got married this past April at a beautiful College of Physicians wedding. Being a wedding photographer for the better part of a decade means that there aren’t too many things Rachel hasn’t seen. But at this wedding, she witnessed something new. A groom so completely head over heels for his bride that he did a cartwheel during their portraits. A freaking cartwheel. The love these two share is undeniable and their joy is utterly contagious. But that’s getting a little bit ahead of ourselves.
While Ashley & Petronella were on the other side of Broad St at another wedding, Rachel & Ann suited up for an awesome day! The day began in the lovely Hyatt at the Bellevue, one of Philly’s poshest hotels, and equipped with a full blown Starbucks in the lobby (a beautiful sight for our team). When Rachel walked in to the suite, Jennifer Supper from Kaleidescope Events had everything ready for immediate shooting. She was totally on top of it.
Getting Ready at the Hyatt at the Bellevue
As Rachel began photographing Emily’s beautiful details, Emily walked into the room. . She had her hair in rollers, was brushing her teeth, and, in her delightful British accent, greeted us with exuberance and glee. The tone of the day was set; light-hearted, joyous, and so completely in love.
After we finished photographing the details, including her metallic Badgley Mischka shoes and Martina Liana wedding dress, we were ready for our bride to get dressed. Emily’s mother, Roey was just about set to help. She was finishing getting on her dress – one that she’d bought when she was 32!!! It still fit and it was stunning on her. With gigantic smiles and full hearts, Emily and Roey zipped the dress and put on the final touches.
Waiting in the wings was her father, Dave. Emily warned us that he was the emotional type. When he turned and beheld his gorgeous daughter, proud papa couldn’t keep the tears at bay. As they embraced we heard him tell her that she was radiant. Queue heart melt. We then revealed her to her bridesmaids and there was a chorus of shrieks and a few tears as well. Emily was the first of their friends to get married for the most part, and she was absolutely stunning. But beyond her physical beauty, her love for Phil was palpable. She couldn’t wait to see him, and high over Broad street, she couldn’t resist peeking out the window to where he was getting some portraits taken with his groomsmen.
Phil & his Groomsmen
While Rachel was enjoying her time with the ladies and Emily’s family, Ann was rocking out with one of the goofiest and sweetest grooms we’ve had the joy of knowing. Phil was just as excited as Emily for his wedding day. Maybe, even more so. All throughout his groomsmen portraits, he was a bundle of energy that often expresses itself in fist pumps, finger guns, and huge smiles. There couldn’t have been a happier groom in the entire city of Philadelphia. After pit stopping at Vintage Wine Bar for a swanky photo, it was time to head to one of our favorite places in Philadelphia for their College of Physicians wedding.
Their College of Physicians wedding
The hour had come, the moment was here. An excited and anxious Phil led his posse down the aisle and waited not so patiently for Emily to appear in the doors. And when she did, all the excitement of the day and all his love for her could be seen in his eyes. In the twitch of his lips as he held back tears. In the deep breaths he took trying to recover from the moment she took his breath away. And for her part, Emily beamed all the way down the aisle. After being given away, she never let go of Phil’s hands. Their vows were exchanged with huge smiles and giggles. And their first kiss as husband and wife was absolutely epic! Followed by lots of whooping by Phil and a triumphant exit. They’d made it, forever Mr and Mrs.
Our love for Catering by Design grows each year, and Emily and Phil’s College of Physicians wedding took it to new heights. The stunning ballroom was warm and inviting, each table beautifully appointed. To reflect their belief that their wedding was about everyone that is important to them, Emily and Phil opted for a head table, so they could be near to those they love. Emily’s father gave a welcome speech that sweetly welcomed Phil to the family, after some good natured ribbing of course.
A Party fit for the Queen of England
When dinner was over, the party began in earnest. The dance floor was jammed the entire time, lead by the bride and groom. The Queen of England even made an appearance and is apparently quite the lively dancer. Rachel, Ann, and Liam were sad to leave this amazing couple and the great people at their wedding.
Congratulations, Emily and Philip! We hope you enjoy many wonderful years of finger guns and cartwheels together!
Their special day was made possible by these wonderful vendors: Photographer – Ashley Gerrity Photography – Getting Ready – Hyatt Bellvue – Venue – College of Physicians – Planner – Kaleidoscope Weddings – Florist – Arrange Design – Catering – Catering by Design – Entertainment – SSL Productions – Hair/Makeup – Dina Alon Studio
