Getting Ready for Jessica & Andy’s College of Physicians Wedding Photos
It was a spectacular autumn afternoon when we arrived at the Westin Hotel to photograph the start of Jessica and Andy’s College of Physicians wedding day. The room was aglow with the bride and her maids enjoying champagne in personalized glasses while getting all dolled up. Jess was perfectly demure as she sat in the makeup chair having the final touches put on. That gave Rachel plenty of time to capture all of her incredible details. Everything from her custom Kate MacDonald dress to the glittery wedges from Kate Spade shouted beauty and elegance. Her bouquet was a stunning compilation of garden roses, purple dahlias and plenty of leafy greens to bring the beauty of the season to bear on her special College of Physicians wedding day.
There was a special guest during her preparation time. Hidden in the bodice of her dress was a Batman figurine. Andy often hides Batman around for her to find. He made sure that he was there for the day they became husband and wife. Tears of joy and laughter flooded her eyes when she discovered him as she went to put her dress on. It built the excitement for their first look which we were about to depart for.
Meanwhile, Andy and his guys had been getting ready at Jess and Andy’s place in South Philadelphia. Customized shot glasses with a mini bottle of booze were gifted to the groomsmen as they all spiffed up for the wedding. Andy’s winning smile lit the room often and everyone made sure to share a toast before catching the bus (yay Septa) to Rittenhouse Square for the first look.
First Look & Portraits at Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square is the perfect location for wedding portraits for a College of Physicians wedding and we had the perfect day for outdoor photos! Andy waited patiently in a crowded Rittenhouse Square for his bride to be. It was so worth the wait! When Jess glided towards him and tapped his shoulder, the world stood still and they were alone in the park. The smile that lit Andy’s face when he beheld his bride could have bathed the entire city in bright light. They embraced and we watched all the wedding day nerves and jitters disappear. The day they had long awaited was here and they couldn’t have been happier.
College of Physicians Wedding Photos: Ceremony & Reception
After portraits around the square and a nearby alley, we made our way to the stunning College of Physicians. The courtyard was lined with beautiful wooden chairs facing a brick wall laced with ivy. Their ceremony was short, sweet, and full of laughter. Their officiant was a last minute addition when the man they had originally asked had a family emergency, but she was a riot. Her beautiful words were accented by timely and witty jokes that made everyone chuckle. With an exchange of vows and rings, Jess and Andy sealed their marriage with a kiss!
The College of Physicians reception room is gorgeous. The wood paneled walls and the old oil paintings of famed doctors and researchers lend an air of old world style. The elegant details made the entire space feel frozen in time. The long, low greens contrasted with high bouquets gave the room dimension and depth. It was a perfect place to celebrate the love of Jess and Andy. Their introductions were met with great enthusiasm. Their first dance (“Coming Home” by Leon Bridges) left everyone smiling. The entire evening blurred into joy, frivolity, dancing, toasts and more dancing.
Jess and Andy, we hope that you had an incredible honeymoon. Know that we loved every single second of your wedding day. We wish you the very best that this life has to offer and raise a glass to your first year of marriage.
We couldn’t be more excited than to share your wedding day photos!
A wonderful personalized gift for your bridesmaid is a gold calligraphed stemless champagne flute, perfect for wedding morning champagne toasts.
Beautiful, window-lit bridal portraits are a must have of any wedding. Jessica’s classic, elegant style shone during her portrait session.
Groom prep can be a fun and exciting part of the day, too! Andy was a great sport, fixing his cufflinks and tightening his tie.
Groom prep can be a fun and exciting part of the day, too! Andy was a great sport, fixing his cufflinks and tightening his tie.
Andy’s custom suit from Indochino featured teal lining and was embroidered with Jess & Andy’s names and wedding date. Each of the groomsmen’s jackets was also embroidered with a nickname or inside joke.
Jessica & Andy had their first look at Rittenhouse Square.
Jessica and Andy posed for this intimate portrait under her veil.
We paused outside for a few portraits before heading inside to prepare for their wedding ceremony.
A close up of Andy’s boutonniere and Jessica’s bridal bouquet.
Jessica was absolutely floating down the aisle as she walked with her father during the ceremony in the courtyard at the College of Physicians.
Jess & Andy’s ceremony in the courtyard of the College of Physicians was filled with laughter and joy.
Jessica and Andy bounded down the aisle together as they took their first steps as husband and wife.
The College of Physicians, which is managed by Catering By Design Events is one of our favorite Philadelphia wedding venues. We particularly love the deep wood architecture and the historic feel of the ballroom.
Jessica & Andy’s reception florals paired tall vases filled with deeply hued flowers with lots of hanging green garlands.
The Amazing Professionals Who Made This Day Awesome
Wedding Dress Designer | Kate MacDonald
Bride’s Shoes | Kate Spade
Bridesmaids Dresses | Bill Levkoff
Bride’s Accessories | Family Heirloom
Men’s Suits Designer | Indochino
Floral Design | Willow & Thistle
Hair & Makeup | Beautiful Brides
Ceremony Venue | College of Physicians
Reception Venue | College of Physicians
Cake | Catering by Design
Linens | Catering by Design
Furniture Rentals | Catering by Design
