Katina & Matt’s lively personalities boasted through every detail of their wedding as they spent the day hanging out in their favorite city with their favorite people. With a passionate love of traditions new and old, Philly sports, and colorful details, these two threw an amazing modern Greek wedding at the Crystal Tea Room. Although unique in their own special ways, their wedding day reminded us of Janine & Tom’s Crystal Tea Room wedding and St. Luke ceremony.
Getting Ready at the Loews Hotel
With its modern Art-Deco vibes, the Loews Philadelphia hosted Katina & Matt as they prepared for their wedding. High above the ground with a view of their favorite city below, it was the perfect place to begin the day. From the Chick Invitations stationary and Beautiful Blooms florals to the Bella Bridesmaids dresses and paired pajamas, we had so many fun details to capture. Katina slipped into her stunning Justin Alexander ballgown from Irini’s Originals and Sam Edelman shoes. After adding a few personal touches with earrings made from her grandmother’s bracelet, she was a picture perfect bride. We were honored to recreate a portrait of Katina & her parents from a photo that was taken at her mom’s wedding. With Katina ready for the day ahead, we captured her beauty as a modern-chic bride. Finally, it was time to leave for the Greek wedding celebration at Crystal Tea Room.
At the same time, Matt dressed in his polished black suit and bowtie. While many of our couples present each other with a gift or card the morning of their wedding, Katina & Matt went the extra mile to make their exchanges special. They waited until that morning to write down their feelings to remember forever. After Matt read his heartfelt letter, he added the gifted cufflinks to his ensemble. Ready for the fun ahead, Matt headed to Old City for a first look with his bride.
First Look & Photos in Old City Philadelphia
The Merchant Exchange Building was perfect for Katina & Matt’s first look. The smile that had already been radiating from Katina grew even bigger as she approached her groom. He had to walk a full circle around her to take in the view before shedding a tear. While Katina is the more extroverted of the two, Matt’s reaction was pure emotion on display. The love between them was more than evident as we captured kisses and moments of true happiness before their wedding.
As we brought in the wedding party, Katina & Matt took a moment to snap a photo with each other’s party. When they first met, the new pair bonded over their many mutual friends after meeting online. A few years later, and they are on their way to their Greek wedding at Crystal Tea Room!
Saint Luke Greek Orthodox Wedding Ceremony
Although Katina & Matt have started many of their own unique traditions, they took part in centuries old rituals during their Saint Luke Greek Orthodox ceremony. After making their way down the aisle, Katina’s father handed her off to Matt and watched the marriage unite. Katina’s Kombara, a very important role of sponsoring the couples marriage, participated in the exchanging of rings and the crowning of the bride and groom. Their love was sealed with a kiss and embraces from each of their families. Now officially Mr. & Mrs. Palmer, a bubbly exit awaited the bubbly couple.
Greek Wedding Reception at Crystal Tea Room
Finally arriving at Crystal Tea Room, Katina & Matt got to privately practice their first dance and explore the pub. Most excited for cocktail hour, Finley Catering provides a cultivated selection of snacks and spirits for guests to enjoy. Succeeding a lively entrance by the new husband and wife, it is the brides duty to lead the first Greek dance. As the floor filled with dollars and dancers, we knew the rest of this traditional Greek wedding at Crystal Tea Room would be amazing. After cutting The Master’s Baker masterpiece, we stepped out to capture the signature shots on Broad Street.
Congratulations Katina & Matt! We wish you many years of radiant joy and lively love!
The team of professionals that helped make Katina & Matt’s Crystal Tea Room wedding one to remember:
Photographer: Ashley Gerrity Photography | Getting Ready: Loews Philadelphia | Reception Venue: Crystal Tea Room | Planner: | Olive Street Events | Florist: Beautiful Blooms | Entertainment: BVT Live! – Elevation Band | Stationery: Chick Invitations | Caterer: Finley Catering | Cake: The Master’s Baker | Transportation: Ace Limousine | Videography: Trabbland | Wedding Dress: Justin Alexander | Dress Boutique: Irini’s Originals | Bride’s Shoes: Sam Edelman | Engagement Ring: AR Morris | Make up: All Dolled Up | Hair: Amanda D-Andrea Hair
