Melissa & John- Union Trust Wedding

Melissa and John’s Union Trust Wedding in Philadelphia was nothing short of spectacular. It was a chilly January day. Though it may have been a little cold, it was perfect for a winter wedding. It had snowed just a tiny bit the night before, creating the perfect backdrop for their day.

The day began at the Sheraton Society Hill where the guys and girls were separately getting ready. Everyone was feeling a little nervous and emotional. The girls looked stunning with hair by Jackie Grosso and Makeup by Melissa from Flawless Finish. We took some time shooting the getting ready and all of the amazing details. Once they were ready, I set out with John to the first look location.

Melissa and John decided to have their first look on a cobblestone alley in Old City. This was the perfect spot. It was just off the beaten path to allow them some privacy. Once Melissa and John saw each other for the first time, we took the opportunity for a few photos in Old City.

We then met the bridal party and families in the hotel lobby  for some fun photos before hopping on the trolley. Melissa and John chose to use a trolley from Philadelphia Trolley Works to transport the bridal party and families around the City. Our first stop was Washington Square Park. This was just perfect. The sun was out and the fresh snow was glistening. The girls wore beautiful fur shawls to keep warm. After the park we set out the City Hall. I took Melissa and John to a few fun spots just the two of them. They even bumped into their Crossfit instructor while we were out.

We then headed over to the church. Melissa and John chose the beautiful and historic Old St. Mary’s Church as the setting for their vows. The church was decorated for Christmas and was just spectacular. Melissa and John chose music by Shaw Strings to accompany the ceremony. The service was full of laughter and tears of joy.

We then headed over to Union Trust wedding venue by Finley Catering. This space is just breathtaking. It is the once home of a bank. It now is a newly renovated space with grand architecture and vaulted ceilings. Melissa and John had a few spots for photos. One was the old vault in the basement. After a few photos, Melissa and John joined their guests for an over the top cocktail hour.  As they mingled, I took the chance to photograph their stunning “winter wedding” decor. The tables were adorned with garland and hydrangeas arranged by Charles Devlin Designs.

Guests headed to their seats and the Blue Label Band introduced the bridal party and Melissa and John. The couple enjoyed their first dance. Guests were invited to join them halfway through. Guests then took their seats for some toasts and a delicious dinner. After dinner, the band kicked it up and had everyone dancing. Cake and desserts were served upstairs. The dessert bar was complete with waffles and coffee liquors. It was clear that Melissa and John, along with their planner Beth Koenig from Brass Tacks Events, had truly planned a night to remember.

I cannot thank Melissa and John enough for trusting me to capture their amazing day. I really enjoyed getting to know the two of them and their families. The highlights of their day are below. I am looking forward to seeing their video from WellSpun Weddings.