When we began our planning process with Karianne & Patrick, she wanted her wedding day to look and feel very romantic. From the moment we arrived, we knew her visions would come to life. A day surrounded by their closest loved ones, roaring red roses, and a candlelight at their Romantic Ballroom at the Ben wedding seem to have hit all the marks!
Getting Ready at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco
Being one of our most frequented wedding day starting locations, we were delighted that the Kimpton Hotel Monaco hosted Karianne & Patrick on the morning of their wedding. While the bride had the final touches of her hair and makeup done by SlayD and Beke Beau, we got to work. Her simply elegant I Do! Invitations suite layed out with its delicate rose detail to match her bright bouquet of ruby red roses. The pops of red photographed beautifully behind her shining silver rings and pearl jewelry. A few of her girls helped her step into her glamorously beaded lace fit and flare gown from The Sample Rack. After Karianne added her dazzling jewels, Pat’s mom adorned her with the starfish brooch that has been worn by women in their family on their wedding day for generations. Once ready, we headed to Ballroom at the Ben for the ceremony.
Off in a different suite, Patrick and his groomsmen worked together to get all his wedding day details just right. Pocket squares were pressed, collars and ties were straightened, cumberbund and cufflinks were fastened. They enjoyed a well-earned toast to the groom and the day ahead. Then, it was finally time to head to his bride and their romantic Ballroom at the Ben wedding celebration.
Ceremony
With the groom positioned at the altar and her father waiting atop the aisle, Karianne descended down the marvelous grand staircase. She took her dad by the hand and headed towards Pat, towards the rest of their lives together. The sizable smiles on their faces remained throughout the ceremony. They exchanged rings, vows, and their first kiss as husband and wife under an alluring arch of those bold red roses.
Intimate Portraits around the Ballroom
Although we love journeying through the streets of Philadelphia, a brisk January day gave us the opportunity to have a few quiet moments around the Ballroom with the newlyweds before their roaring reception. The architecture and ambiance in the spaces surrounding the ballroom were perfect for capturing Karianne & Patrick’s amorous love. The pair paraded down long marble hallways and twirled between massive columns. Patrick kissed and cuddled Karianne under classically carved ceilings and under her veil.
Friends and family emerged for a few more portraits all together now that Karianne & Patrick joined each other for the day, and for life. They were even able to enjoy Ballroom at the Ben’s extravagant cocktail hour on the mezzanine before the reception finally kicked off.
Romantic Reception
Warmly lit by candles and adorned with more romantic red roses, Ballroom at the Ben was ready for a wedding. Despite the entertaining entrance given by the entire wedding party dawned in fake facial hair, Karianne and Patrick received the warmest welcome. After walking hand in hand between cheering guests, the new Mr. & Mrs. were showered with sparklers as they made their way to the dance floor. They swayed and spun as their closest loved ones stared in awe. While the Don Eaton Band played a short set, Karianne’s cousin changed wardrobes in preparation for her big toast.
Once guests were seated, the maid of honor danced her way to center stage in a stunning sweatsuit covered with the newlywed’s faces. Needless to say, guests were impressed and toasted with lots of laughter. On the other hand, Patrick’s men extracted a few more ohs and awes in their heartfelt speeches. A delicious meal was provided by Finley Catering before the couple cut their cake and enjoyed the rest of the night on the dance floor.
Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. McKie! It was such a pleasure to capture this truly romantic Ballroom at the Ben wedding!
Thanks to these amazing vendors who helped create their amazing wedding day:
Photographer: Ashley Gerrity Photography | Getting Ready: Kimpton Hotel Monaco | Reception Venue: Ballroom at the Ben | Florist: Fabufloras | Entertainment: Don Eaton Band | Stationery: I Do! Invitations | Caterer: Finley Catering | Cake: The Master’s Baker | Dress Boutique: The Sample Rack | Make up: Beke Beau | Hair: SlayD
