Maggie & Nik’s love story begins with the pair being assigned as random partners to practice IV’s on each other during a medical school rotation. As someone who worries about all the little things in life, Maggie would quickly fall in love with Nik’s wise words and calm composure while Nik was enchanted by her signature smile and laugh. When we learned that they were referred by a couple that we absolutely adored working with (shoutout Rachel & Michael’s wedding at The Lucy), we were even more thrilled to meet Maggie & Nik. After an afternoon of exploring Old City during their Spring engagement session, we knew they were perfect for each other. With a focus on tradition, love, and laughter, we spent a joyous day in Philly capturing Maggie & Nik’s Greek wedding at Union Trust.
Getting Ready for the Greek Wedding at Union Trust
Upon our arrival to the Canopy Hotel, we found a quieter scene than we are used to. Maggie was accompanied only by her mom and sister as the MJ Bridal Artistry team placed their finishing touches on the bride. Ida was the ultimate hype woman who endlessly complimented and calmed our beautiful bride, even pausing to let Maggie enjoy her morning bagel. The small crowd allowed for a more intimate experience as Maggie’s mother and sister stayed by her side through every step. They helped her into the gorgeous a-line Enaura Bridal gown that was made for Maggie. Being the worry ward that she is, it was shocking to learn that this was the one and only dress she tried on during her Kleinfeld appointment.
Once adorned in her bridal attire, she showed off her final bridal look as her father, grandmother, and other loved ones began gathering to greet the bride. After collecting the supplies for her traditional Greek wedding ceremony, it was finally time to meet Nik for their first look in Old City.
Meanwhile, Nik prepared for the Greek wedding at Union Trust from his mother’s house in Jersey. With his classic black ensemble pieces ready to go, his best man helped him into his cufflinks and bowtie. He donned a traditional tuxedo jacket over a pair of fun polka-dot suspenders before his mom stepped in to pin the beautiful boutonniere fastened by the Fabufloras team. After lacing up his black dress shoes, he hopped on the Limo Today party bus and began the journey to his bride.
First Look & Portraits in Old City Philadelphia
With a first look planned at the Merchant Exchange Building and only one party bus, Maggie & Nik were up for getting a bit creative. Once the transportation arrived at the Canopy, Nik suited up in his cheetah print “blindfold” and Maggie boarded the bus. Maggie let out one of her signature laughs to let Nik know she was nearby. Sitting side by side on the journey, this was such a fun way to kick the nerves before their official first look.
Finally, the moment they had been waiting for unfolded as Maggie tapped his shoulder. As Nik turned toward Maggie, his jaw dropped at the sight of his dazzling bride before him.
Their families joined for a few formal photos and we took a moment to capture the bride and groom with their honors of the day. Maggie’s sister, and built in best friend, would play an important role in their traditional Greek wedding as the Koumbara, or sponsor of the marriage. After a few snaps at the MEB, we took a walk across the cobblestone to the Second Bank and 18th Century Gardens. Maggie’s bubbly personality boasted even brighter the more time she spent with Nik. Before we knew it, it was time to head to St. George Greek Orthodox Church for their traditional Greek wedding ceremony.
Greek Wedding Ceremony at St. George Orthodox Church
St. George’s opulent interior was the perfect place for Maggie & Nik’s Greek wedding ceremony. Once Maggie met Nik at the altar, the ceremony full of ritual and tradition began with the betrothal ceremony. Her sister, Ellen, played an important role as the Koumbara, or Greek sponsor of the marriage. Tasked with performing the Crowning ceremony and other key traditions, she is to guide the couple throughout their marriage, even after the wedding is over. After sealing the marriage with a kiss, it was finally time to celebrate with a Greek wedding reception at Union Trust.
Greek Wedding Reception at Union Trust
The regal ballroom looked stunning for Maggie & Nik’s Greek wedding reception at Union Trust. From the welcome sign & seating chart to the elaborate floral arrangements, the candle lit room set the tone for a delightful celebration.
One of our favorite parts of a Union Trust wedding reception is the incredible entrances the newlyweds get to make. As guests gathered on the dance floor, Maggie & Nik made their introduction from the second floor balcony through a sea of sparklers.
Wasting no time after their first dance, it is the bride’s duty to initiate the first Greek song. Friends & family flooded the dance floor as the circle dancing commenced and the bills began raining down. After a brief pause for toasts, a delicious dinner, and the cake cutting, the dance floor was full the rest of the night.
Maggie & Nik, it was such a pleasure to capture your joyous spirit & endless love. We wish you many more happy years!
The talented team of vendors that helped throw the perfect Greek Wedding at Union Trust:
Photographer: Ashley Gerrity Photography | Getting Ready: The Canopy Hotel | Reception Venue: Union Trust | Florist: Fabufloras | Entertainment: Silver Sound DJ Vaughn | Stationery: Zola | Caterer: Finley Catering | Transportation: Limo Today | Wedding Dress: Enaura Bridal | Dress Boutique: Kleinfeld Bridal | Bride’s Shoes: Loeffler Randall | Wedding Rings: Summit Diamond | Make up: MJ Bridal Artistry | Hair: Valerie Rose Hair
