What an incredible day at the wedding of Max and Beth at the stunning Penn Museum. These two are handcrafted for each other and, on a perfect day in September, they began their forever as Mr and Mrs.
Getting Ready at the Inn at Penn
Elizabeth attended Pennsylvania University, one of the legendary schools of the Ivy League, and arguably one of the prettiest campuses in the US. So it was only fitting that she and Max would spend some time there during their wedding day.
In an amazing suite, the ladies were wrapping up with hair and makeup. Jen and Chelsea from Kaleidoscope Events were on hand to make sure that everything ran smoothly. And smoothly it did. All Beth’s details were exquisite and we were so glad to be able to capture them. Her magnificent dress hung in the window. The delicate lace appliqués were so dainty and suited to her. Her natural makeup look brought out her naturally amazing blue eyes, and we knew that Max would have a hard time looking away from them.
Before we could head to the Penn Museum, we needed to finish getting ready, so we tarried no longer. Beth slipped into her dress and her mom zipped her up. The transformation was complete, and there were so many people waiting to see her. First, dad. Queue the tears. He was overcome with emotion. His only daughter was about to marry her perfect match and he was hit all at once with every sweet memory from the previous 30 years, as well as immense joy in the joy of his baby girl finding her true love.
Next, the bridesmaids. Everyone was so happy for Beth, and did a great job protecting their makeup.
Finally, it was Max’s turn.
But before we get there, we should give some attention to him.
Max is a quiet man. Snarky without being mean, his sarcastic sense of humor is part of what endeared him to Elizabeth. His best man remarked that he has a cool exterior, but is a teddy bear inside. We felt that. The outside was calm and collected, but we knew excitement was brewing underneath. He was anxious to get their Penn Museum wedding underway, but we had to capture his perfect wedding day ensemble and him donning it first. The story must be told in its entirety! But once those were captured and the day underway, we didn’t keep him from Beth any longer than absolutely needed.
First Look & Portraits on Penn’s Campus
The Quad at Penn has so many little nooks and crannies for photos, and we found a perfect place for Beth and Max to meet one another for the first time on their wedding day. In front of a stone wall, in a glen of quiet in the midst of the hustle of the city, these two came together for the first time on their wedding day. The hug that followed Max’s smile was sweetness embodied. They clung to one another over and over, excited the day had finally arrived.
We had their besties join us for wedding party pictures before wandering a bit through Penn’s Campus on our way to the Penn Museum, stopping here and there for portraits. There were some spectacular pockets of light that made our hearts sing, but the best lay ahead.
Portraits & Ceremony at the Penn Museum
When we arrived at the Penn Museum, the final touches were being put on the ceremony space where Max and Beth would share their vows shortly. Before that could take place, we wanted to capture family formals quickly so that everyone would have the chance enjoy cocktail hour following the ceremony.
When the time did arrive for the ceremony at Penn Museum to begin, it was picture perfect. The sun had sunk low behind the buildings, and the weather was cool and pleasant. Max walked in with his parents and waited for Beth. The massive wooden doors from the upper level opened, and Beth emerged with her father. She was a vision as she drifted down the stairs and practically floated down the aisle.
They were united in a short and sweet ceremony outside the Penn Museum in the Warden Garden. After everything was said and done, there was one more married couple in the city of Philadelphia. Then it was time for an incredible reception.
A Penn Museum wedding Reception worth celebrating!
Penn Museum weddings are always a pleasure because the team at UPenn that handles their events are top notch. Plus, the space itself is full of unique architecture and interesting history. In our experience, the couples who choose venues steeped in history and culture (like Penn Museum) end of having some of our favorite wedding days. Beth & Max fit the mold and we absolutely loved every moment of their wedding reception.
From Beth’s father’s thoughtful welcome toast inviting the guests into the vaulted Chinese Rotunda to the wicked dance floor that the couple & guests kept hopping all night long, this was a reception to remember. Beth & Max, we wish you a lifetime of happiness and are grateful to have been a part of your celebration!
The Penn Museum Wedding Pros that made this day special included:
Getting Ready: The Inn at Penn | Venue: Penn Museum Weddings | Planner: Kaleidoscope Weddings | Hair/MUA: Daneene Jensen | Florals: Nature’s Gallery Florist | Cake: The Master’s Baker | Entertainment: EBE Talent
