Kelly and Bill’s wedding at the Museum of the American Revolution was an incredible blend of chic (wait till you see her dress and his suit!) and the some of the richest history the city of Philadelphia has to offer. Held on a lovely Saturday in early June, this wedding was one that thrilled and delighted at every turn.
Getting Ready at the DoubleTree Downtown Philadelphia
Kelly had everything perfectly laid out and waiting for us when we arrived to begin capturing her wedding day. Her dress blew us away. A delicate sheath dress with the most exquisite beading and a show stopping T back, it was absolute perfection. She’d taken the care to add an overskirt for the more traditional church ceremony in order to save the sleek look for the reception and wow everyone once again. Her classic Manolo Blahnik pumps were elegance in a shoe, and made a beautiful resting place for her diamond tennis bracelet. Everything about Kelly’s wedding day style was elegant and timeless. And as she put her dress on and affixed her earrings, the bride before us was one for the ages.
For his part, Bill was every bit the dashing groom to Kelly’s elegant bride. His sharp and well tailored suit was set off by his velvet shoes. He was somewhat reserved throughout the morning as he got ready. Having opted to skip a first look, he was anticipating seeing his wife to be at the altar of Old St. Josephs. So we delayed no further, it was time to get to the chapel.
The Ceremony at Old St Joe’s
With their closest friends and family in attendance, the music started and the ceremony that would unite Kelly and Bill in marriage began. There were only smiles to be found as the groomsmen and Bill took their places and the ladies glided to meet them. As everyone rose for Kelly’s entrance, the excitement was living in the air. And her walk down the aisle was greeted with smiles and tears. When Bill saw her, his eyes melted and his smile was tender and sweet. Here she was at last. In a surprise to the priest, they memorized their vows and made them to one another unprompted. Their shining wedding bands found their permanent home on their ring fingers, and a magnificent kiss sealed the whole shebang.
Portraits in Old City
With a merry bridal party in tow, the new Mr and Mrs forged a path over to the Merchant Exchange Building for portraits and some bridal party fun. The matte marble of the MEB set off this elegant party. The perfect backdrop for the timelessness Kelly and Bill integrated into their wedding. When we’d had our fill of this beautiful location, we took a short walk to the First National Bank. There we ran into wedding friends (Hi Jen and Kaleidescope Events!), and enjoyed the stairs and columns that are the bank’s main draw. After shooting to our heart’s content, we happily sent Kelly and Bill on to their cocktail hour at the Museum of the American Revolution, a little ahead of schedule much to Bill’s delight.
The Reception at the Museum of the American Revolution
The brand new Museum of the American Revolution boasts one of the most beautiful ballrooms we’ve seen in recent memory. We immediately fell for the baby blue walls, the huge ceiling, and all the windows letting in the gorgeous summer sun. And to make things even better, Kelly and Bill had the room beautifully appointed for their reception.
Following the outdoor cocktail hour on the terrace, the guests found their seats and waited for the announcement of the guests of honor. Kelly and Bill came through the doors to raucous applause and opened the dance floor with their sweet first dance.
In a surprise, Kelly wasn’t the only one with a reception look. Her father had changed his jacket and was looking really snazzy in a white jacket as he offered his toast to his little girl and her man. He invited her to dance and she accepted.
From there, the party ramped up. Everyone was getting their groove on and it was a blur of dancing and laughter.
Congratulations Kelly and Bill! We will carry your classically elegant wedding with us for a long long time and wish you both an incredibly happy life together!
Their special day was made possible by these wonderful vendors: Photographer – Ashley Gerrity Photography – Venue – Museum of the American Revolution – Florist – Beautiful Blooms – Catering – Brulee Catering – Bakery – Isgro Pastries – Stationery – Papery of Philly – Hair/Makeup – Aleksandra Ambrozy – Dress – Hayley Paige / BHLDN – Shoes – Manolo Blahnik – Bridesmaid Dresses – Hayley Paige / Bella Bridesmaids – Rings – Kellmer Jewelers