There was time for a a little romance on the trolley as we headed for portraits at The Second Bank of the United States in Philadelphia. It’s one of the few places in historic Philadelphia not packed with tourists on a summer afternoon. The beautiful bouquets were by Beautiful Blooms. Ali is well known for her comical expressions so she and her sister gave us a few for history! Ali and all her friends were very much the “comics”. They posed on the steps of the bank with the groomsmen swords. The couple found a few minutes for some serious romance before we headed to The National Constitution Center for their ceremony.
Ali + John 09.05.10 – Part 1
Ali was raised in a military family so it was a perfect match when she met and fell in love with Annapolis grad, John. I loved the gift that the groom presented to his groomsmen, a cigar holder kit. The guys decided to have a smoke before preparing for the day! Ali prepared for her day in the bridal suite of the Ritz-Carlton in Philadelphia. Claudia Seyler was on hand for hair and makeup. I just loved Ali’s antique hair clip. Her gown was by Jim Hjelm and it was so pretty and breezy for a late summer wedding. The couple met on the stairs of the Ritz-Carlton before taking a ride around the city for so pre-wedding portraits. More to come!
Charlene + Simon 09.04.10 – Part 2
Even their dogs were in attendance during their ceremony. Adam Leffel of Petals Premier Event Design did a beautiful job decorating the gazebo where Simon and Charlene were wed, and the decor for the reception was equally beautiful. Check out the couples cake topper. It’s seems that Simon kept Charlene waiting a bit before being dragged off to the alter. There is one thing very special about receptions at Florentine Gardens. During the first dance couples can have a beautiful white spotlight cast into a smoke filled room. It always makes for a perfectly romantic and dramatic first dance!
My second shooter Charmi Peña took this amazing image from the balcony. Bravo, there is nothing like, white light, a smoke machine and great composition!
Charlene + Simon 09.04.10 – Part 1
Charlene and Simon envisioned a classic elegant wedding and a very perfect location for that would be Florentine Gardens in Rivervale, NJ. It’s been awhile since I’ve photographed a wedding there and it was wonderful to be back. I can’t wait to show you the reception as the have some of the most wonderful lighting for a reception. The couple met prior to their ceremony so they would not have to miss a minute of their festivities. Their 2 dogs were even dressed in their formal wear and were actually part of the ceremony and bridal party pictures. It’s obvious they are a very important part of the family. Too cute! Their florist was Adam Leffel of Petals Premier Event Design.
OK, should the caption on this picture be “Happy bride held at camera point by videographer?”