“I love you without knowing how, or when, or from where. I love you simply, without problems or pride: I love you in this way because I do not know any other way of loving but this, in which there is no I or you, so intimate that your hand upon my chest is my hand, so intimate that when I fall asleep your eyes close.”
― Pablo Neruda, 100 Love Sonnets
The forecast called for rain, but rather, the day brought a thin cloud coverage that muted the sun just enough, with pockets of blue and peaking sunshine. A calm Kelsey arrived back at the Courtyard Marriott in Center City Philadelphia after running downtown to grab some lunch. The minutes before she stepped into her dress she touched up her mothers makeup and straightened her hair. Her father in the other room, relaxed, was watching sports. From the start of this day there was a peace about the motions. A relaxed manner at which everyone functioned. A wedding day that allowed for deep breaths and moments of reflection.
Kelsey slipped into her gown, a dress that her mother once walked down the aisle in, re-imagined for this day but still holding true to it’s original form. The ensemble was complete with the help of her mother as she slipped on the glittering jewels and sparkly flats.
I rode the elevator down to the lobby to meet Jeff, the groom. It was going to be the first time I was meeting him. Dressed in my photo gear and strapped with two cameras at my side a bystander on the elevator cracked a joke I so often hear, “You’re not a photographer or anything are you…” In which I replied, “No way.” and continued to remark about how wedding season is upon us and I was on my way to meet today’s groom. Another bystander commented, “Well then you must be the groom!” directed towards a gentleman dressed in grey at the back of the elevator. And with that, I finally got to meet Jeff Baker.
The first look took place in front of City Hall in Center City Philadelphia and true to this couple’s nature, it was sweet and unhurried. We strolled around the historic landmark waving at bystanders and even chatting with a fellow friend from church that happened to spot us on his afternoon stroll.
After a quick walk to Liberty Place we rode the elevator up to the 37th floor and was greeted with a breathtaking view of the city. The two said “I do” amongst 25 of their closest friends and family, followed by drinks and conversations and filet mignon that could be cut with a butter knife.
Congratulations to the new Mr. & Mrs. Baker. It was truly an honor and pleasure to be a part of your day!
– T
Vendors:
Dress: Vintage – Kelsey’s mother’s dress re-imagined by Courtney of Prim & Perverse
Groom attire: Mens Wearhouse
Reception Venue & Catering: R2L
Hair: Mae Bruno at American Mortals
Makeup: Veronica Lopez
