It was back to back weddings for us for this reception at the Ballroom at the Ben. This time, Erika & Ryan were the ones at center stage!
Getting Ready at the Loews Philadelphia
Erika and Ryan are two fashion-savvy gurus who brought some serious style game to their reception at the Ballroom at the Ben. Erika’s incredible wedding dress screamed timeless elegance, with it sheath silhouette, lace details, and sheer panel in the train. She paired with a stunning veil and beautiful open toed shoes. We loved her acrylic invitation! The amazing invitation suite was modern, yet still held a timeless element.
As we were busy with details, the final touches for hair and makeup were wrapping up. There was the lively bustle of bridesmaids and Erika’s mom as they saw to the last details before going to the church. Almost before we knew it, it was time to go.
Ryan, a few floor below, was having a blast with his groomsmen. His best man, Kevin, kept the mood up, while also helping get the guys where they needed to be. Ryan’s loafers were the perfect touch to his tailored suit, and he was ready for Erika to meet him down the aisle.
Ceremony at St Augustine’s Church
The historic and beautiful church of St Augustine’s served as the place where Erika and Ryan would cross the threshold of fiances to newlyweds. Their traditional Catholic mass united them in marriage and spoke of enduring love. Love that we know these two share with one another. With a triumphant kiss, they exited to bubbles and shouts of joy from their guests. We took time to capture family portraits here before heading outside for a shot of the bride and groom with the vintage Rolls Royce they’d hired!
Portraits Before the Reception at the Ballroom at the Ben
It’s no secret that we love taking portraits in Old City. But we hit a new level of love when Erika & Ryan pulled their vintage Rolls in front of the MEB. Two classic elements with a stunning couple made for a magic combination in portraits. Before their reception at the Ballroom at the Ben, we enjoyed a stunning day to make incredible portraits for these two to cherish for the rest of their lives.
Then it was time to make our way to the reception at the Ballroom at the Ben.
The Reception at the Ballroom at the Ben
The newlyweds initials were glowing on the dance floor when we arrived to begin capturing the reception at the Ballroom at the Ben. Guests were upstairs in the balcony, enjoying the delicious spread prepared by Finley Caterers. The details of the room were set, so we captured them and got ready for what would prove to be an epic party.
The DJ got the crowd turned up after we heard some heartfelt toasts from Erika’s two sisters, and Kevin. There were tears and laughs, and then the music kicked up. The dance floor was PACKED. Everyone was full send party-mode and we had a blast capturing the joy and fun.
The thing that surprised us about this reception at the Ballroom at the Ben, was the garter toss. Normally, this can be a bit cringey, but Ryan killed it with some funky dance moves (including a somersault). We’ve never heard so much laughter all at once.
The night wore on in a sweaty but fun-filled dance party, and we were sad to leave. Congrats to the Wheelers!
