Getting to celebrate the love that unites two people forever is amazing, but Merri and Sam’s wedding was literally on Cloud 9 as they celebrated at Vue on 50.
Getting Ready at The Sheraton Downtown Philadelphia
Before saying ‘I do’ 50 stories above the city of Philadelphia at Vue on 50, Merri & Sam began their wedding day up in the clouds at the Sheraton Downtown. Merri started off the morning with her closest girls and welcomed each of them as they trickled in from hair & makeup. Once they had all arrived, glammed but still staying cozy in their matching navy pajamas, the girls popped some champagne to begin the day of celebrating. Merri’s mother helped her into her simply stunning Paloma Blanca gown from Bridal Garden, then added some classic and clean final touches to complete her bridal look. When Merri stepped into the next room and revealed her look to her bridesmaids, a few tears were shed amongst the group. Meanwhile, Sam stepped into his sleek navy tuxedo, strapped up his suspenders with a little help from dad, and added a few snazzy details before enjoying a casual drink with the guys. With emotions high, we headed to lower ground for Merri & Sam’s first look.
First Look on the Mezzanine
While the entire wedding party gathered in the lobby ahead of celebrations, we took Sam up to the second floor for a more intimate setting. Merri got off the elevator, headed towards her awaiting groom and tapped him on the shoulder. When he turned around, all of their stress melted away as they embraced with sweet hugs and kisses. We invited the rest of the party to join us for a few family formals and wedding party pics before heading off to Old City for some portraits.
Couples Portraits at the Merchant Exchange
While the Merchant Exchange Buildings is typically one of our favorite locations for wrangling a rambunctious wedding party, Merri & Sam’s peacefully private portrait session was a nice change. We left the wedding party to stay dry on the party bus while making a splash with the bride and groom outside. Braving the raining weather, Merri & Sam strolled down the cobblestone streets for a few minutes of alone time. Sam was a true gentleman, holding umbrellas and making sure his bride-to-be stayed dry and comfortable before officially tying the knot a few blocks over. After bearing bad weather, it was time to head over to Vue on 50 and stay high and dry above the clouds.
Traditional Jewish Wedding Ceremony at Vue on 50
Merri, Sam, and their closest family gathered in the reception space of Vue on 50 ahead of the ceremony for the Ketubah signing. An intimate moment surrounded by a special few, Merri and Sam validated their marriage in the presence of their rabbi and sealed it with a kiss. Once business was handled, Sam took his place at the head of the aisle. As Merri and her parents made their way to the Chuppah, they stopped in front of Sam to lift their daughter’s veil and began the traditional Jewish ceremony. Vows and rings were exchanged, families united under the Chuppah, candles lit, and glasses smashed, Merri & Sam were now officially husband and wife. The newlyweds shared another kiss in front of a cheering crowd of loved ones before heading into a cocktail hour with some spectacular views of the city of Philadelphia.
Reception in the Sky at Vue on 50
Even in a fog, the views from 50 stories above the heart of Philadelphia are hard to beat. But Merri & Sam were a sight to behold as they entered the reception as Mr. & Mrs. for the very first time. Guests watched through teary eyes and tall gold, floral, and twinkling candle centerpieces as Merri & Sam danced away to “Just the Way You Are” by Billy Joel. Merri’s father took over for a song, as did Sam’s mother, before sitting down to listen to kind words and well wishes for their children from their closest friends and family. This time, it wasn’t the weather that brought drops of water to Merri’s face. After some sentimental speeches and delicious dinner crafted by Perfect Setting, Center Stage kicked off the night and welcomed all the guests out onto the dancefloor. They danced the night away until the much anticipated Horah, where Merri & Sam spun around laughing and were lifted high above the crowd for all to admire. While all of this was going on, a live painter was creating an epic rendition of the sky-high wedding in the clouds. She painted an elegant image of Merri & Sam on the dance floor in their first moments as husband and wife. Their Vue on 50 wedding was one for the books!
