Ashlyn & Kevin | The Lucy by Cescaphe
Philadelphia, PA
A Philadelphia wedding is like no other. History, culture, elegance, energy – all of these elements are found everywhere in the city of Brotherly Love, and can also be captured at any point on a wedding day. Most wedding days that I photograph in Philadelphia run about 10-12 hours and are non-stop. They are exciting and are hard work! We typically visit 4-6 location stops throughout the well-planned timeline for the day. What always brings me extra joy on a busy day are the unpredictable, non scripted moments that are unique to each wedding. These moments make you stop in your tracks (except for me, I keep shooting) and really enjoy the moment. Ashlyn and Kevin’s warm September Philadelphia wedding day was no exception! Their carefully planned day was full of joy, family history, architectural history, culture, elegant decor and attire, elated and loving energy all around!
Both sides of the wedding party prepped together at the gorgeous Bellevue Hotel located in Historic Downtown and overlooks Avenue of the Arts. When I arrived, Ashlyn was enjoying the excitement and music with her girls while getting her hair and make up done. I began to photograph her details and any candid moments surrounding me. She was calm and so happy! Time moves very quickly during the morning. It seems as if there is down time, and then all of a sudden it is time to get dressed!
The girls helped Ashlyn into her gorgeous Martina Liana gown before her emotional first look with her father. Ashlyn’s mother helped her finalize her bridal look with adding the veil right before she and Kevin saw each other before enjoying the adventure that was their wedding day.
First looks are literally the best. If you want to fully enjoy the raw emotions between you and your spouse-to- be and have a few special moments together, this is the way to do it. There is no better feeling than seeing the one you love after some time, and not being able to hold back that childlike happiness. As a photographer, I realize the moments happening before me are memories that will last forever. I do not interrupt or rush this time. I remove myself as much as possible with still documenting the moments and feelings shared until the couple turns to me and asks “What is next?” as they laugh and wipe their eyes.
For Ashlyn and Kevin and their bridal party what came next was a fun trolley ride and stops at: Broad Street, City Hall, and Logan Square…then back to The Bellevue for their ceremony!
Once they were officially united as they had already been in their hearts, Ashlyn and Kevin along with their families and guests endlessly enjoyed the reception at Cescaphe’s newest venue: The Lucy. The pair booked this gorgeous, modern reception space sight unseen while the design was still being brought to life. They had been anticipating being on that dance floor as husband and wife for a long time. The night had finally come, and they certainly did not hold back on celebrating!
I know their day was everything they hoped for and more. Ashlyn and Kevin, I wish you continued happiness and thank you for trusting me to tell your wedding story through these images. xoxo!
Vendors:
Ceremony Venue: The Bellevue
Reception Venue: The Lucy – Cescaphe
Florist- Beautiful Blooms
Hair- La Fleur Studio
Make Up- Genna Longo
DJ – DJ Oxygen
Invitations – By Invitation Only (Etsy)
Bridesmaids Dresses – BHLDN
Bride’s Dress (1)- Martina Liana from Bridal Garden
Bride’s Dress (2) – Jay Godfrey
Bride’s accessories – olive + piper
Groom’s & Groomsmen’s Tuxedos: Menguin
Groom’s & Groomsmen’s Accessories: Tie Bar
