Andy & Maddie {Wedding by Tessa}

“he said different things
in different ways
and it caught her
imagination
he was everything
she’d ever dreamed
so simply unordinary”
– Atticus

Andy & Maddie {Wedding by Tessa}

Where do I even begin? This day was pure perfection; from the details, to the weather, to the adorable couple. I had been looking forward to this wedding for months, especially after my engagement session with Maddie & Andy. These two are the cutest pair. They are high-school sweethearts, and while often that story involves the occasional “breaks” or life setbacks, there’s has not. They have intentional chosen each other for the past seven years and continue to choose one another year-after-year. While many knew it was only a matter of time until this day came, it was such an amazing celebration of their love and commitment for one another.

The day began in picture perfect fashion at one of my favorite prep spots, the Lokal Hotel in the Old City part of Philadelphia. The sun was streaming through the windows as the girls enjoyed their breakfast, sipped on champagne and had the finishing touches of hair and makeup placed. Maddie was a beauty even before she stepped into her dress, but was drop-dead gorgeous in her princess gown. Maddie is extremely close to her family, the last of the three sisters to marry, you could tell this was a special occasion for everyone involved. Her mom helped to zip up her gown, while her sisters were nearby. Her dad had his own first look, grinning from ear to ear once he saw his baby girl.

Next up, we met up with the dashing groom at the Horticulture Center, where the ceremony and reception would take place. I consider this venue a hidden gem of Philadelphia. Tucked away in Fairmount Park, is a large greenhouse on stunning historic grounds. Even with the cooler temperatures, the sun warmed these two as they saw one another for the first time that day. Andy is a bit more reserved, but he couldn’t hide his adoration for his beautiful bride. The two embraced, chatted about their morning and then we met with the rest of the bridal party.

Indoors, last minute details were being placed for the ceremony and reception. White chairs lined the space with a gorgeous, floral arbor at the front where Andy and Maddie would say their “I Do’s”. Surrounded by greenery, it felt something out of a fairytale. The guests arrived, dressed in their finest black-tie attire. The ceremony was officiated by the friend of the couple, making the whole event extremely personal and heartwarming. The two attempted to hold back their tears as they read their written vows. Applause erupted as the two were declared, for the first time ever, as Mr. & Mrs. Shesko.

The reception space was jaw-droppingly beautiful, I mean take a look at the head-table with its hanging lights and draping flowers. Breathtaking. Guests were treated to a wonderful cocktail hour where old friends caught up and new friends formed. Because Maddie and Andy went to the same high-school, as well as college, there was a really wonderful, close knit, vibe that laced their celebration. It was so evident how loved and supported they were not by just their family but by their friends as well.

First dances were shared, clinking of glasses heard with the toasts and then the dance floor was opened. I have literally NEVER seen a dance floor fill so quickly. Guest were holding their breathe to get this party started ran to the dance floor. It was amazing. The night continued with a delicious dinner, drinks and whole ton of dancing.

Perfect, from start to finish. What an honor it was to be able to document this day! Thanks for being the best, Maddie & Andy.

– T

Second Photographer: Victoria Walters

Bride Prep: Lokal Hotel
Groom Prep: Embassy Suites by Hilton Philadelphia Center City
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Fairmount Park Horticulture Center

VENDORS:
Wedding Planner: Kate’s Wedding Day Coordination
Wedding Dress: Lovely Bride – Ivy & Aster
Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie
Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Florist: Belovely Floral & Event Design
Bride’s Hair: Bekah Lehman with SaloNOVATION
Bridesmaid’s Hair: Janelle on Location
Makeup: Janelle on Location
Cake: The Frosted Fox Cake Shop
Catering: Constellation Culinary
Videography: David and Sarah Lynn
DJ: Lovesick Inc.
Transportation: Werner Coach Busses
Lighting: Lumos Lighting Co

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