With Philadelphia as our home base, we always love when our couples want to highlight the beauty of our city in their wedding photos. Kelly and Poorya were adamant about showcasing the city that they love, as well, and we were able to capture them in not just one or two, but five different historic Philadelphia locations. Their wedding at Richmond Hall was full of love, laughter, and joy – and we were so glad to be a part of it!
Getting Ready at the Franklin Hotel
Kelly and Poorya started the day by getting ready with family and friends at the historic Franklin Hotel. Kelly and her bridal party wore matching pajamas as they had their hair and makeup done by Eva Marie Swartout. Then her mom and bridesmaids helped Kelly into her simple, elegant dress designed by Pronovias. The dress had a timeless silhouette with lovely lace details in the back. Her statement piece of the day was her sparkly blue Keds sneakers – perfect for dancing the night away later!
Down the hall, Poorya was enjoying his morning getting ready with is best man. At one point, he and Kelly had gifts delivered to each other. Poorya sent Kelly a custom photo book with pictures of their relationship that had her teary-eyed as she read his note and flipped through the detailed pages. Kelly’s gift to Poorya was a Playstation 4 soccer game, with a note that indicated he had a brand new PS4 system waiting for him at home.
Their First Look at the Second National Bank
Once Kelly was buttoned into her dress and Poorya was decked out in his custom suit, we headed over to another historic Philadelphia building, the Second Bank of America. Its white columns, wrought iron fence, and red doors created a timeless backdrop for their first look. Poorya headed up to the porch of the building and stood in place waiting for Kelly to come up the steps to meet him. When he turned around after she tapped him on the shoulder, they greeted each other with joyous laughter, tears, and a warm embrace.
We snapped a few more photos in front of the bank building, then headed one block down to the 18th Century Garden and then up to Elfreth’s Alley. Both locations provided picturesque, historic Philadelphia backdrops for Kelly and Poorya. We love when we are able to incorporate our beloved city into the photos of our couples.
A Richmond Hall Ceremony & Reception
Kelly and Poorya’s ceremony was a simple, heartfelt affair in another historic Philadelphia building: Richmond Hall. Kelly was escorted down the aisle by her dad, where she got to show off the train and lace detailing of her dress. Poorya shed tears of adoration as he watched his wife-to-be walk towards him. After sharing their self-written wedding vows, Kelly and Poorya headed back up the aisle, smiling in excitement to be husband and wife.
After the ceremony, guests headed into the next room to start celebrating with a cocktail hour. The colorful hors d’oeuvres by Mario’s Catering were on display for guests to enjoy. There was also a table of symbolic Persian items to commemorate Poorya’s heritage. During this time, Kelly and Poorya mingled with guests, delighted to be sharing their day with their loved ones.
After cocktails, the guests entered the same room where the the ceremony had taken place to find it set up for the rest of the reception. Kelly and Poorya had chosen a blue, white, and gold color palette in honor of Poorya’s alma mater, Penn State. The tables were beautifully set, with geometric accents and white flowers.
Once Kelly and Poorya were announced, they stepped right into their first dance, followed by a welcome speech. Guests enjoyed a tasty dinner, watching parent dances, and listening to toasts. Kelly and Poorya cut into their “He’s Her Lobster” wedding cake, an ode to Kelly’s favorite show, Friends. They also had a Penn State groom’s cake and a photobooth with personalized props. The rest of the evening was spent on the dance floor.
Thank you, Kelly and Poorya, for including us in your wedding day! We loved capturing your love-filled moments and personalized details, all in the heart of historic Philadelphia. We wish you the best as you start your marriage together, and hope that you have a wonderful honeymoon!
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Bridal Party Hotel: The Franklin Hotel ᐧ Ceremony and Reception Venue: Richmond Hall ᐧ Bridal Gown: Designer Pronovias, from Le Bella Donna, Bensalem ᐧ Bridal Shoes: Kate Spade ᐧ Engagement Ring and Wedding Bands: Golden Nugget Jewelers ᐧ Hair and Makeup: EvaMarie Swartout ᐧ Caterer: Catering by Mario’s ᐧ Florist: Roses Florist, Philadelphia ᐧ DJ: DJ Patrice ᐧ Stationery: Shutterfly
