Sophie and Ben’s day must have been held on the most hot and stiflingly humid day of the year. As a fellow curly-headed woman, I understood that pictures outside were not an option. Thankfully, it wasn’t an issue. We had amazing light and opportunities right where we were.
The ladies and gents got ready at Philadelphia’s funky Hotel Palomar down by Rittenhouse Square. Sophie’s gown came out of a fairy tale. It was delicate, simple, and was perfection on the graceful and statuesque Sophie. She had been looking for a wedding dress for 6 months before she tried on the Shareen Vintage frock.
The 1920’s style robin’s egg blue shoes that peeked beneath the gown were an amazing addition.
Ben and Sophie shared their first look in the library at the Palomar. I could have photographed in this one room all day. Ben saw Sophie and his jaw (rightfully!) dropped. He couldn’t keep his eyes off of her. She was an absolute vision to behold.
We made our way over to Front & Palmer for the wedding. Rain came pouring down once we were safely inside.
Their rabbi led the group in a beautiful ketubah signing.
I loved their hand-created papercut featuring two bikes and nature. So very them.
A former barrel factory, the high-ceilinged loft featured hardwood floors, whitewashed brick walls, and gloriously unique light fixtures with soft draping. The moody space was lit by candles, Edison bulbs, and perfectly placed uplights and spot lights.
Ben’s talented childhood friends and musicians entertained the guests before the ceremony.
Their Jewish wedding ceremony was an emotional one, with Sophie’s recently deceased father in everyone’s thoughts.
Sweet items were placed all around the space. There were framed prints of parents and grandparents on their wedding days, homemade jams as placecards, chalkboard signs, and some of the cutest custom cake toppers you’ve ever seen. Colorful wildflowers were speckled everywhere.
Take a special look at Ben’s ring. It was made at the same shop that designed Sophie’s (first) engagement ring.
The two entered the reception and shared their first dance to Ray LaMontagne’s “You are the Best Thing”. (Bright Eyes’ “First Day of My Life” was a close runner-up.)
The evening moved into a frenzy of happy hora dancing, tear-jerking speeches, and song after song of laughter and swirling on the dancefloor.
It was a wonderful day and I am so glad that I was able to be a part of it. Now I’m eager to hear of Ben and Sophie’s honeymoon details from Fiji!
You are the best thing
(you’re the best thing)
You are the best thing
(you’re the best thing, baby)
You are the best thing
(you’re the best thing, oooh)
Ever happened to me
~ Ray LaMontagne, You Are the Best Thing
