New Year’s Eve is always a crazy , magical day for weddings. There is an electricity around the city and more excitement in guests than just your regular Saturday wedding. Something about the extra bite in the air and knowing that the party is going to last after midnight makes NYE weddings one of my favorite!
I ended 2014 with Ann and Mike for their beautiful Philadelphia celebration. The ladies (dressed in glamorous black) got ready at the Loews hotel. Ann, a grade A planner had the details and the day worked out perfectly. She had thought of everything (down to the something borrowed shamrock pin on her bouquet). The day was sunny, spirits were calm and bright (her mother may have been a bit on the emotional side).
Ann, statuesque and shining, was stunning. She looked like she was made to be a bride. The dress was about the 6th one she tried on – originally strapless she added the straps and the lace keyhole back.
There was also a sweet blue monogram in the back of her gown as her something blue.
I loved her intricate and teeny (she’s a size 3.5!) wedding band.
Ann had handkerchiefs made for all of her bridesmaids and Mike, a man with notoriously sweaty palms.
The ceremony was held at one of my favorite churches in Philly, Old St. Mary’s Church, in Old City. The place was decked out in poinsettias, greenery, and sparkling lights everywhere.
Immediately post-ceremony we headed to Elfreth’s Alley for some pictures on the historic little street. Ann had brought along a luxe wintry fur coat for extra warmth.
From there we whisked ourselves to Broad Street and City Hall for more pictures.
The new Dilworth Plaza was spectacular at dusk with so many lights everywhere!
We dropped the party off at the National Constitution Center but not before a few selfies in the bronze statue room. This wedding party was an absolute hoot!
We bundled up again and moved out to Penn’s Landing for some evening fireworks among crowds of revelers. 10 minutes later we were back in the trolley for warmth and preparations for the evening’s festivities.
The second floor of the National Constitution Center was set up for a great night. I love the grand flags circling the balcony. The simple, elegant lanterns leading guests up the stairs added a classic touch.
The two started things off right with Mike surprising Ann with their first dance song – “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by the King.
As you can imagine, things got amazing and crazy from there. Speeches with props, friends serenading the guests, a selfie stick, and some fantastic dancing!
The Oh, snap! Photo Studio was well used that night too.
The crowd counted down to midnight with the newlyweds, champagne in hand, before trailing out onto the patio to watch the second fireworks display of the evening.
Magical, just magical. Congratulations, Ann and Mike, on an unforgettable wedding day!
Darling so it goes
some things are meant to be
take my hand, take my whole life too
for I can’t help falling in love with you
for I can’t help falling in love with you
