Philadelphia has more than its fair share of incredible venues. The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (PAFA) is one such location. It dates back to 1786 and boasts an incredible collection of art. It makes an amazing spectacle as a backdrop to a wedding so I was thrilled to Alise and Greg’s wedding photographer in this ornate venue. But let me backtrack to the beginning of the day…
I met up with Alise at the Ritz Carlton where she and her bridesmaids were getting ready. I fell in love with her Lazaro gown. The ruffles just made my heart melt.
Her bridesmaids and family fluttered around her but Alise was calm and cool as a cucumber. Kimberly from Innove Events (now Styled Creative) was there to ensure the day looked wonderful (it did) and everything went smoothly (absolutely!).
And boy was she gorgeous! Long hair and a spectacular smile.
I have to share some of the accessories of the day. I dug her adorable peep-toe slingbacks.
Her engagement ring was almost as beautiful as Alise (but not quite). Notice Alise’s matching necklace – a wedding gift from Greg.
Beautiful Blooms did an awesome job with the florals. The rich purples, blues, and pinks popped against the otherwise black tie affair.
Alise and Greg chose to do a first sight at LOVE Park (appropriate, no?). On the way over, Alise was telling me about Greg’s light green eyes and how she couldn’t get enough of them when they first met.
We had enough time to collect the bridal party and head over to Lemon Hill Mansion for pictures of everyone. I love it when we set aside plenty of time before the ceremony to check out a location or two and just play around. It was a pretty blustery day but the light was just lovely.
We finally made our way back to PAFA’s Historic Landmark Building. Thre was much laughing and celebration in the room where we had the Ketubah signing. The guests in the main hall must have wondered if they missed the main event!
Their Jewish ceremony was beautiful. I think everyone shed a few tears. The bridal party and chuppah stood on the landing with guests looking on from above. It’s one of the most creative setups I’ve seen for a ceremony. Set against the bold reds and golds of the room, it was a spectacle to behold.
The cocktail hour and reception allowed the guests to mingle and wander in and out of the many of the museum’s rooms to indulge in the world class exhibits, paintings, and sculptures.
Dinner was served on the upper floor at tables of alternating high and low centerpieces in pewter vases. I loved the gold chiavari chairs.
Alise and Greg were introduced into their first dance together as husband and wife to “For the Love of You” by the Isley Brothers.
Their 12 piece band, Urban Guerilla Orchastra, rocked the place, despite the small dance floor.
And it’s always a party once the hora begins!
(Those ruffles are so dreamy!)
A few more memorable moments of the night included catering by Jimmy Duffy,
Great toasts where we learned of the eternal struggle with Greg’s ponytail and the couple’s adrenalin-filled adventures (including motorcycles and Tanzania for the honeymoon),
A touching father/daughter dance,
And a serenade by 9 year old Madison of Bryan Adams’ “Heaven”.
It was a fantastic day. Gorgeous couple, gorgeous venue. Alise and Greg, I wish you all the best in all of your upcoming adventures!
I wanna be livin’
For the love of you, alright now
All that I’m givin’, givin’
Is for the love of you, oh, yes, I am
~ “For the Love of You”, Isley Brothers
