When planning a winter wedding, it is hard to know what to expect. The weather can be unpredictable, it can be a blizzard, it can rain, and the wind can be terrible. As a photographer, I always need to have a plan in place to ensure we still can create a beautiful collection of photos for the couple, regardless of weather conditions and location. Little did I expect we are going to have such a fabulous, warm day for a February wedding in Philadelphia, with some glorious light and spotless blue sky!

Now, let me tell you about our couple. Rachel and Tom are extraordinary people, to say the least. They couldn’t be a more perfect match for one another and their relationship is just so incredibly beautiful! Rachel’s bridal style blew me away. Elegant, sophisticated, with a touch of glamour and very timeless. Every single detail was meticulously chosen and planned.

Wedding Portraits at Merchants Exchange and 1st National Bank

The wedding ceremony was held at St Monica Church in South Philadelphia. After the mass was over, it was time to leave for the bridal party photos in the Old City Philadelphia. Rachel and Tom picked the Merchants Exchange Building and the 1st National Bank as their portrait locations. I must admit that those two historical places are one of the most requested wedding photo locations in Philadelphia. And there is no surprise for that. The architecture of both Merchants Exchange and 1st National Bank is breathtaking, there is so much beautiful texture and backdrops to work with, the light is always amazing and, as a bonus, the two locations are only seconds away from one another.

Rachel and Tom allotted plenty of time in their timeline for portraits. So since we had enough time left, we went to Philadelphia City Hall for some more photos of just two of them. And I am so glad we did!

Wedding reception at Cescaphe Ballroom

There couldn’t be a more perfect fit than Cescaphe Ballroom for Rachel and Toms’s wedding reception. The room looked phenomenal that night. The bride and groom added some of the most exquisite personal touches to the decor, which made it look very sophisticated and unique. The black and white stripy dance floor, the vibrant red uplighting, and the modern chic floral arrangements, every detail was just a show stopper.

Rachel and Tom, I wish your married life is filled with all things beautiful and unique just like you two are! You almost made us forgot we are at work, this is just how enjoyable and smooth your day was. Thank you a million times for having us!

A huge thank you to an amazing team of vendors:

Catering: Cescaphe

Hair Stylist: Flawless Finish Artistry

Wedding Gown: Bridal Garden (Martina Liana)

Menswear: Chadmoore’s

Floral Decor: Frannie Erace

Videography: Abominable Productions

Band: Masquerade

Stationary: Papery of Philly

Wedding Cake: Cescaphe

Transportation: Cescaphe Trolley, Ali Baba Limo

Photo Booth: Center City Photo