“Her eyes
smiled at mine
and in that moment
my heart stopped
time stood still
a numbness
filled my soul…
I saw forever.”
perry
I met with Tommy & Emma a few days before their wedding to talk final details and walk the venue. The weather was calling for a wintery mix, not ideal for a wedding at the incredible Loews Hotel, known for its breathtaking views of Philadelphia from the 33rd floor. Windows on every wall, revealing the beautiful city below stretching towards the horizon. But despite the iffy forecast these two were anxious to get the show on the road. Both Tommy & Emma are planners and together they thought of every detail. All that was left was to enjoy the celebration.
The morning of February 17th I quickly hopped out of bed to peer out my window and wouldn’t you know, it was blue skies and sunny. I may have squealed with excitement.
The day began with meeting the girls in the most breathtaking bridal suite we have ever seen. Almost every wall was covered in windows, drenching the space with natural light and of course the iconic views of Philadelphia that the Loews hotel is so well known for. Knowing this type A bride, I knew we would walk into a very organized and relaxed atmosphere. Within moments of meeting the bridesmaids (and bridesman!), I knew we were in for a treat.
Emma slipped into her gorgeous lace gown with the help of her two sisters and mother. Her father walked in to see his baby girl and quite literally, his jaw dropped (see image below). They shared a dance together as they practiced their last minute steps.
An anxious Emma was anticipating what was next, getting to see her groom. We traveled up to the ceremony venue where the dapper Tommy was waiting. As he turned to see his bride, every inkling of stress dwindled.
We traveled by bus to grab a shot of another iconic view of Philadelphia, City Hall. The four of us (Tommy, Emma, Victoria and Myself) walked the streets taking full advantage of the uncrowded area. Perks of a winter wedding in Philadelphia!
A short trip to Washington Square followed, where the bridal party unloaded and it was their time to shine. Clouds had moved in as the forecast still called for evening snow. Temperatures dropped, but the attitudes remained excited and never once did we hear a complaint. CHAMPS. Emma’s dress was made for images in front of Second Bank. With it’s regal, sweeping columns and muted marble stone…together they were timeless.
It was then time for the main event. We traveled back, warmed up with some coffee, as guest began to arrive. Everyone in their best attire, admiring the views and anxiously awaiting to see the VIP’s of the day. The ceremony took place in an open space with endless windows, gold chairs and a see-through arbor adorned with gorgeous blooms. Below, a unity candle.
Guests found their seats and the live music swelled as Emma walked arm in arm with her mother and father. Her groom awaiting, tears in his eyes and a grin from ear to ear. If that wasn’t precious enough, their vows were quite possible the sweetest thing I have ever heard. There is no question the adoration these two have for one another. They’ve got it right; striving to continue to put the other above themselves, supporting each other with all that life throws them. You could feel the strength of their promises just by the way they proclaimed their vows.
And then it was time to party…
Guests enjoyed cocktail hour with exquisite cuisine and cocktails. Night was just starting to fall upon Philadelphia and the lights of the city were waking up, creating an even more magical view.
Tommy & Emma had a surprise in store for their guest, inviting them into a separate room for line dancing. WHAT, so fun. Then the intros were made and the reception began. BVT Live bringing the energy from start to finish.
Tommy & Emma had another surprise in store. As Tommy danced with his mother, Emma slipped out of the room to change into her tango attire. The two had been preparing a piece as their first dance. I’m still having a hard time figuring out how to articulate how MIND-BLOWINGLY awesome their dance was. Seriously, we were blown away. You would have thought two professional dancers were before us. They danced with ease, quick feet and completely synchronization with one another. The guests erupted in praise as the two danced above the city, the snow falling around us.
The night continued with dinner, endless dancing and the cake cutting of the cutest cake we have yet to see.
This day was one for the books. We could not have been more honored to have documented this love story. Tommy & Emma, thank-you for being so wonderful. We adore you guys!
– T
Second Photographer: Victoria Walters
Ceremony & Reception Venue: The Loews Hotel – Philadelphia
VENDORS:
Wedding Planner: Christina with ATP Events
Dress: Philly Bride – Dress by Martina Liana
Grooms & Groomsmen Attire: Mens Wearhouse
Florist: Theresa Mallone
DJ/Entertainment Service: BVT Live
Catering & Cake: Loews Hotel
Hair & Makeup: Pretty on Arrival – Marissa
