In an elegant affair, Dani and Kyle’s Union Trust wedding was a nod to old-time Philadelphia, invoking Art Deco and Gatsby-esque visuals. Helped by Chrissy from Proud to Plan, this day was a Sunday jaunt from start to finish.
Getting Ready in Downtown Philadelphia
Dani and Kyle got ready at the same hotel in the heart of Center City. Dani’s hair and makeup was in the final stages, so we began with her lovely details. We adored the art deco inspired invitations. We felt like Daisy Buchanan being invited to a gala at Jay Gatsby’s. Designed by Exit 343 Design, these invites set the tone of the day wonderfully.
In perfect complement to this were the amazing earrings she had chosen. To add an element of modern times, Kyle’s wedding band was mixed metals and a hammered texture. A wonderfully unique ring for a wonderfully unique groom.
In all the bustle of the room, we found time to gather everyone for a toast to the bride before she got into her dress. Beautifully beaded, Dani’s dress was absolute perfection. Her mother helped her affix her veil and we took advantage of the gorgeous window light to capture some timeless portraits before whisking her away to the 18th Century Gardens for her first look with Kyle.
Just down the way, Kyle was having a grand ole time with his guys. Lots of laughs, receipt ties, and general goofiness. Things took a decidedly emotional turn when he opened his gift from Dani and read her note to him. But even more so when, in a unique twist, he did a first look with his mom. They both barely made it through. Then it was time. So off we went.
The First Look and Portraits at the 18th Century Gardens
The lovely portico in the 18th Century Gardens was an ideal place for the joining of these two. Kyle stood waiting as his bride swept up behind him. The look of astonishment at how breathtakingly beautiful she was still makes us smile to this day. We meandered through the gardens and adjacent parts of the parks in Old City. All the while, these two couldn’t keep from laughing together and cozying up. Such a delightful time with just each other.
Bridal Party and Family Portraits at Second National Bank
Once we’d finished with the two of them, we joined the bridal party at the Second National Bank. The marble architecture was transportive, we felt like we were in the 20’s again. Ladies and gentlemen, dressed impeccably. Family soon joined and we completed the formals quickly, allowing for maximum enjoyment of Union Trust’s amazing cocktail hour. But before the deliciousness, one more matter needed to be seen to: Dani and Kyle had to actually get married! So we rushed off for their Union Trust wedding.
The Union Trust Wedding Ceremony + Reception
On a beautifully watercolored ketubah, Dani and Kyle signed their names. Solidifying their union in the Jewish tradition before their interfaith wedding ceremony. For anyone who is concerned that having a first look eliminates the emotion of seeing your love come down the aisle, we only need to refer you here to show that’s not always the case. Dani and Kyle had been together the better part of their Union Trust wedding day and Kyle still lost it when his bride met him under the chuppah. She responded in kind. Their long courtship and the steady build of their love culminated in heartfelt vows given to each other. A glass was broken, a cheer raised, and an epic kiss shared: married at last.
After some quiet time together, Dani and Kyle joined their guests for cocktail hour, before guests were ushered downstairs for the reception. Announced into the reception with a spotlight, they started the night with their first dance before asking all to join them for a raucous hora. Throughout the night, it was obvious how much this couple meant to so many. The toasts were genuine and heartfelt, telling of these two and their heart for each other and fellow man. Dancing and laughter were the only things on the docket the rest of the night. And we were happy to be there to capture it all.
Dani and Kyle, we can’t wait to see how you change the world together as husband and wife!
