A Classic Philadelphia Wedding

With its soaring ceilings, marble columns and sweeping staircases, it’s really no wonder that Bari and Alex chose to celebrate their summer wedding at The Ritz-Carlton in Philadelphia. When it comes to traditional wedding venues, the Ritz is easy to consider. But it’s also a wedding venue like no other. Set within a former bank building modeled after the Pantheon, the hotel offers a grand, romantic setting that comes with the signature luxury service brides and grooms dream of experiencing on their wedding day.

Feeling the Joy

Clearly, this charming, expressive duo enjoyed every moment of their wedding celebration. You can feel their joy for the day in every single photograph, beginning with their preparations in the hotel, to their first look on the steps at The Union League, to their playful, laughter-filled trolley ride around town for bridal party photos, to their endearing, heartfelt wedding ceremony under a gorgeous floral chuppah, and on through an energetic dinner dance reception in the Grand Ballroom. It was a classic Philadelphia wedding that needed to be shared! Enjoy!

Stylish Bridal Attire 

Bari’s petite figure looked amazing in a whole gaggle of gowns, but it was magic of Monique Lhuillier that stole her heart! A strapless, lacy mermaid silhouette with delicate organza bows in the back. Alex looked mighty fine himself in a perfectly fitted Tom Ford tuxedo and Paul Stuart shoes and furnishings. Each of them oozed elegance, but together, they were all style and grace.

The First Look

When we planned Bari and Alex’s wedding day timeline it was imperative that we schedule plenty of time for a “first look”! That first moment when they got to see each other all dressed up in their finest! But just the two of them greeting the day and then heading off for a fun photo shoot at some of Philly’s most scenic landmarks. Places like The Union League, the Rodin Museum and The Barnes served as dramatic backdrops for their bridal party photos.

Jewish Wedding Rituals

Quite possibly the most important part of the Jewish wedding, Bari and Alex’s Ketubah signing was celebrated with their immediate families, bridal party and closest friends. Smiles, tears and tenderness washed across the room as their commitment to each other was solidified in this sacred ritual. Then, after the Bedeken (the veiling of the bride), it was time to walk down the aisle on the arms of their parents.

Welcoming their Guests with Flowers

As we lined up the bridal party for the processional, Bari and Alex’s wedding guests were invited to the ballroom for the ceremony. To set the tone for the romantic occasion, they were greeted with soft music, dim lighting, and large displays of seasonal flowers. Oh, and candles, lots and lots of candles.

Down the Aisle to the Chuppah

Bari floated down the aisle carrying a stunning hand-tied bouquet of delicate flowers that included Stephanotis, giant white Peonies, cream-colored Vanda Orchids, and touches of white Hydrangea. The combination of the flowers complemented the feminine textures of her lace gown. The Chuppah awaiting them was signature Evantine. A custom-built, white wooden structure over ten feet in height, covered in thousands of pastel blooms, and placed on a large white-carpeted stage. Beautiful blooms such as Peonies, Orchids, French Stock, Roses, and Hydrangea were used in shades of white and cream, with touches of blush, French blue, and soft lavender. Tucked underneath was our small Lucite table holding the Kiddush cup and a “glass” for breaking. Soft, ambient lighting added depth and intimacy for all sheltered.

From Recessional to Reception

Back down the aisle in a blur of bliss as husband and wife! These happy lovers enjoyed a little time alone to take in their new marital status before heading back outside for more photos. Guests celebrated the moment with plenty of champagne and hors d’oeuvres in the Petite Ballroom and Overlook. What you don’t see in these gorgeous photographs, is Team Evantine, working alongside the dedicated catering staff at The Ritz-Carlton, transforming the Grand Ballroom from the romantic ceremony setting to a breathtaking dining room. All in one hour.

Let the Party Begin

Back in the ballroom, Bari and Alex were ready to bring the house down! Bursting with excitement, their guests wouldn’t be seated and the bridal couple entered the ballroom to cheers and dancing! The room that awaited them was just as the bride requested: traditional, filled-to-the-brim with romantic-styled floral designs, layered lighting and sexy music! Their first dance spun right into a Hora to bring down all horas, followed by the Motzi and some amazing toasts. Add one delicious course after another, meaningful parent dances, a cake cutting, and a whole lot of fun, and, well, you get an unforgettable experience. It was truly our pleasure to plan and design this spectacular celebration. Mazel tov!

{Photo credits: Wedding Planner and Event Design, Evantine Design; Venue, The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia; Photographers: Jason and Rebecca Walker for Ira Lippke Studios; Wedding Gown, Monique Lhuillier; and Tuxedo, Tom Ford}