“We look at each other
and we smile
that smile
like a secret we share
we both know we’ve found
what the whole world
is searching for”
Made in America wasn’t the only celebration going on this Labor Day weekend in Philadelphia, just on the other side of the art museum, Joe and Margaret were celebrating their love with their family and friends at the Water Works. But long before the party started, Joe was getting ready not far away at the classy courtyard Marriott, while Margaret spent the morning in her parent’s house. Her bridesmaids buzzed excitedly, reminiscing and sharing memories as their hair and makeup was done. Margaret helped her niece Alivia into her flower girl dress, before slipping into a white dress of her own, aided by her mom. All the bridesmaids smiled ear to ear, and shed a few tears as they saw their friend as a bride officially for the first time. As they waited for the trolley to take them to the church they speculated what Joe’s response would be when Margaret walked down the aisle, and hid tissues for their own happy tears. The girls and I traveled to the church just around the corner and where Margaret attended growing up.
The groom and groomsmen arrived ahead of us and seated guests as they came. Joe tool his place at the front when it was time for the ceremony and anxiously awaited to see his future wife. No tears were shed, but a normally very stoic Joe couldn’t help but smile as Margaret appeared at the end of the aisle. The priest shared Margaret and Joe’s love story as well as their own written vows. A few family members shared readings before the couple exchanged rings and a kiss, sealing their union and the crowd erupted in cheers as they headed down the aisle, hand in hand. Back at the Water Works we gratefully took in all the sunlight we were given on what began as a dreary morning, the Art Museum and Water Works making the perfect backdrop for photos.
Joe and Margaret greeted their guests and snacked on delicious cocktail hour food while the ballroom was being set up for their reception. The newlyweds shared their first dance, and were joined on the dance floor afterwards by their bridal party and almost everyone in attendance. Joe and Margaret’s maid of honor and best man shared their sentiments and toasts, leaving everyone with tears of laughter in their eyes. The dance floor was packed to the edges all night long as everyone celebrated the happy couple. Victoria and I so loved this day and were so happy to be a part of the fun! Congrats to the new Mr. and Mrs.!
-H
Second Photographer: Victoria Walters
VENDORS:
Dress: madewithlovebridal at Lovely Bride Philly
Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Yoo Bella Bridesmaids
Groom & Groomsmen attire: Joseph A. Banks
Hair: Liz Cavill & Kerry Handschuh from Salon Ziza
Makeup: Dylan Michael Cosmetics
Florist: Fabufloras
DJ: DJ Chris Burrell
Videographer: Victoria Mirzoeff
Cake: Jennifer Roach with Cescaphe
Catering: Cescaphe
