This past autumn we had the pleasure of being at the Philadelphia Arts Ballroom three times in the span of one month. This classic ballroom was recently upgraded with another wing and full bar and is such a lovely place for a wedding. Christina and Mike’s wedding in October was absolutely lovely.
Getting Ready at the Cambria Hotel
When we arrived at Christina’s room in the Cambria Hotel (right next door to the beautiful Lucy by Cescaphe), we were immediately swept up in wedding fun. The ladies were finishing their makeup and hair. Nearby, Christina’s dress was hung in the window of the adjoining room. Props to the videographer for literally moving a couch so we had a clean space. Christina had handpicked everything to be just perfect for her Philadelphia Arts Ballroom wedding. But far and away the most special detail she had was a picture of her dad for her bouquet. It was imperative that he join her for her Philadelphia Arts Ballroom wedding day, and he was there.
Mike and the guys were just a few floors away, enjoying their time together with some drinks and snacks. He was easy going and relaxed as he put the final touches on his wedding day ensemble, and made sure he did the one thing he was told he had to do: show up to the church on time. Mission accomplished.
The Ceremony for their Philadelphia Arts Ballroom Wedding
At the top of the aisle, Mike waited for his bride to arrive. Which she did, right on time. Their ceremony was sweet and heartfelt, and they sealed their new marriage with rings and a kiss. We hung out to capture family formals before leaving for portraits!
Portraits at Rittenhouse Square
It was perfect weather out for portraits in Rittenhouse Square. Michael and Christina cozied up together for some sweet walking photos. Though the park was bustling, it felt like they were alone at times. The wedding party had a blast during their portraits. We did have to drag one groomsman back after he made friends with some older ladies having a wine hour together nearby. Then, it was off to the Philadelphia Arts Ballroom.
Reception at the Philadelphia Arts Ballroom
The Philadelphia Arts Ballroom was perfectly set when we arrived. We’d timed it to be a few moments before cocktail hour began and guests would arrive so that Christina could have some dramatic portraits on the grand staircase. She was stunning.
Throughout the course of the evening, friends and family shared a lot of love and laughter. One moment that lingers with us was Christina’s dance with her brother, that turned into much more. A few moments into her dance with her brother, her uncles and cousins began cutting in, each taking a turn to dance with her. The display of familial love not only for her, but for her recently departed father, left no one with dry eyes. But the bittersweet was washed away when the music got going and everyone hit the dance floor. Then, when the dessert room opened, only sweet remained as guests enjoyed the myriad of amazing treats from the Philadelphia Arts Ballroom. A sweet ending indeed.
