From the very moment we first spoke with Deirdre and Gabe, we knew that their Moshulu wedding was going to be off the hook. (Sea what I did there?)
But seriously, it’s rare to meet two such genuine and head over heels people who just can’t help but take incredible photographs.
Getting Ready at the Hilton Penn’s Landing
Armed with the room numbers an ecstatic Deirdre had texted us the night before, we were able to buzz right up to where she and her bridesmaids were in the final stages of getting ready for this epic Moshulu wedding day. Deirdre was all smiles and gave us a huge hug when she threw open the door to let us in. Her hair and makeup by the fabulous stylists at ONLO Beauty was perfection and she excitedly showed us her details. All the beauty! The sweetest little blue bird charm as her something blue, it rested perfectly on the heirloom ring she would later use to marry Gabe. Far and away though, the show stopper was her incredible dress. A Made With Love gown that fit her perfectly. The delicate lace and the plunging neckline was the perfect combination of elegance and drama. And when she put it on, wow. Wow, wow, wow. All dressed up with somewhere to go. It was time for the first look at Race St Pier before heading to the Moshulu.
But we can’t forget about Gabe. Deirdre’s tall, dark, and handsome groom was having a good time. One of those guys who appreciates an opportunity to get a little dressed up and look ultra suave, he was in his element. His monogrammed cufflinks were polished, his tie completely wrinkle free, and when he put the entire ensemble together, he cut quite the dashing figure. The portraits at the Hilton were great and soon he was walking down to Race St Pier.
First Look at Race St Pier
In the shadow of the Ben Franklin bridge, looking out over the Delaware River, Gabe stood with his back to the city. Deirdre was making her way toward him. The warm sun bathed the entire scene in a warm glow, and the breeze stilled for a moment. All nature was holding its breath. As Deirdre placed her hand on Gabe’s shoulder, he turned to behold his bride. The moment had arrived and it was everything they’d ever hoped for. Gabe instantly pulled her in for a hug and it seemed he might not let go. When he did pull away, he took a moment to appreciate her whole wedding day look before we started their portraits.
The blue of the sky and the gorgeous span of the Ben Franklin Bridge married together to amplify the magnitude of these portraits. We walked the length of the pier, finding beautiful spots for some snuggling and enjoying the last moments before they tied the knot. When we’d hit the end of our permit, we made our way back to the Moshulu for some friends and family ahead of their ceremony.
Ceremony at the Moshulu
On the deck of the Moshulu, a beautifully appointed Chuppah stood, ready to invite Deirdre and Gabe into their wedding ceremony. As the music came up, Gabe entered and waited for his bride. Even though they’d already seen each other, the emotion of the moment still swept over Gabe. He teared up but bravely held them back. Deirdre positively floated down the aisle to him. One of Gabe’s groomsmen doubled as their officiant and they enjoyed a completely personal ceremony that united their hearts and lives in love. Their beautiful ceremony was peppered with laughs as the sweet flower girls wandered to and fro, unable to keep still the whole time. But SO cute. When it came time for Deirdre and Gabe to seal the deal with a kiss, Gabe stomped a glass and then swept her into a fantastic kiss. They triumphantly made their way back down the aisle and into a splendid cocktail hour.
The Reception at the Moshulu
One of the things that Deirdre and Gabe were most looking forward to about their wedding was their band, Secret Service Band. They got the party started right and kept it going all night. Deirdre’s mom gave an Irish blessing after Gabe’s father offered a Jewish one. The toasts were the perfect amount of sweet and roast, and cake cutting couldn’t have been smoother. Just before the sun fell completely, we were able to capture a beautiful pastel sky that will stick with us for a long time.
Another memory that sticks out to us, Rachel in particular, is when the song “Hey Baby, Will You Be My Girl?” was played. Everyone had their drinks up, their voices lifted, and spirits high. We couldn’t get the song out of our heads, and soon, Rachel’s toddlers were singing it the very next day. They still ask her to sing it for them. It’s these things that bring our couples even more into our lives and leave a lasting mark.
Thank you, Deirdre and Gabe for allowing us this glimpse into your lives and love story. We had an amazing time and are glad to have you as part of our lives!
This night was everything – two amazing people, a beautiful location, great food, and a killer band! The photos captured it all!! So nice that the celebration live on forever…
Thank you for everything. Pictures were amazing. What a night!
one of my all time fav weddings! Beautiful pictures, as expected 🙂
What wonderful memories we have if Gabe and Deirdre’s wedding. I keep looking at the gorgeous pictures and try to remember each moment. Ashley Gerrity’s photographs captured the joy and happiness of that delightful night. To be remembered forever.
I can’t thank your team enough for the BEST day. You were the true dream team–so lovely to work with AND you do excellent work 🙂 We had the most special day and reading this post brought all those happy memories back. Thank YOU xo
How could they ever pick just a few to hang up in their new home?! They are all absolutely STUNNING. Ashley, you and your team did an amazing job capturing the beauty, love and wild times at this wedding.
This wedding was legendary and we’ve got the pics to prove
it! Deirdre and Gabe created the most wondrous
day for their family and friends. Seeing
these pictures makes me so happy. The
pictures at the foot of the Ben Franklin Bridge are stunning. What a moment to capture. Also, I hadn’t seen all the ladies in the
shirts poised to pop champagne – such a cool shot. I love the look on Mom’s face! The ceremony was so special and the night was
unforgettable from the opening Secret Service song to the feasting and dancing
and everything in between. Long live the
Moshulu! Congratulations Deirdre and
Gabe! And thank you to the amazing
Ashley Gerrity Photography Team! Your
skill at capturing memorable moments is rivaled only by your wonderful
wordsmithing. Such a special recap –
thank you. It is so wonderful to have
these pictures and memories from such a lovely day. 9/27/19 – Iconic
Wow, what a stunning couple and wedding! I love all their decorations, venue, dresses and accessories!