I will look at you across any room and think you are the most beautiful person I’ve ever seen for as long as I breathe.
-a.r.asher
Michael and Rachel’s wedding day was the epitome of elegance and class. Their day included all the best Philly spots – from the Art Museum, to City Hall, all the way to Old City. While Michael and the groomsmen got ready at the couple’s sunlight-filled apartment overlooking Fairmount, the bride and her bridesmaids stayed at Hotel Monaco – which has quickly become one of our favorite venues.
Rachel and Michael chose the historic Christ Church as the perfect place for their ceremony. Family and friends from near and far gathered and filled the rows of pews, the church bells ringing in the background, signaling the celebration. Just as the bells struck 3 0’clock, Michael led the way down the aisle. Then arm in arm with her father, Rachel ascended the aisle to meet her groom. After saying their vows and sealing it with a kiss, the newlyweds gathered with their parents, maid of honor and best man for the signing of the marriage license.
A red and gold trolley awaited outside to escort the bridal party around the city. The weather could not have been more perfect for an early November day, and we took advantage of the lat fall sun as we traipsed around the city for the best photo-ops.
When we arrived back at Hotel Monaco, the grand ballroom was decorated from top to bottom in gold, burgundy and greenery in preparation for the evening events while guests enjoyed cocktail hour on the rooftop lounge. The bride and groom were announced into the reception space to cheers from all in attendance, and danced a special choreographed dance while Michael’s mother sang. After dinner the dancefloor was filled, and a special guest made his appearance. Rachel and Michael’s beloved dog Oliver, dressed in his own custom tuxedo, came in for a dance. There was no shortage of champagne and cookies as guests danced into the night.
-H
Second Photographer: Victoria Walters
Ceremony Venue: Christ Church
Reception Venue: Kimpton Hotel Monaco
VENDORS:
Dress: Pronovias
Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Yoo
Hair: Alyssa Chase with Daneene Makeup
Makeup: Joan Phillips with Daneene Makeup
Florist: Maura Rose Events
DJ: Terrace DJ
Videographer: New Pace Films
Cake: Bredenbecks Bakery
Catering: Hotel Monaco
Transportation: Philadelphia Trolley Works
