Philadelphia Wedding Venues: A Union of Past and Present

Philadelphia. City of brotherly love. It is as famous for its food and fictional characters as it is for its historical significance. It is also a city of firsts – We were the first American capital. We were the first American city to have a daily newspaper. We were also the first to have an art museum or a zoo. We were even the first major metropolis to have a hospital and medical school.  In fact, did you know that 1 in 6 doctors in the United States has had Medical Training in Philadelphia?! Not too shabby… 

 

One of the ways this historical city has maintained its prominence on a national and global stage is it’s ability to multi-task, to diversify. We are home to Rocky and The Rodin, the founding fathers and the Philly cheesesteak, The Museum of Art and the Mummers. It comes as no surprise then that some of the best wedding venues in Philly are ones that, like the city itself, also know how to multitask. Some of the most beautiful events spaces in the city started out as something else entirely, and/or function in more than one way. 

Here are a few of our favorites:

 

First up we have Union Trust. It was originally a bank, and now it is a gorgeous multi-story space with engraved ceilings and gilded historical touches.  

Image may contain: indoor  Petals Lane Inc Floral Design
Finley Catering

 

The Crystal Tea Room, with its detailed columns and magnificent chandeliers, was once a private dining room and restaurant in Wanamaker’s. Another fun fact – It was the first restaurant within a department store.

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 Petals Lane Inc Floral Design
Finley Catering

 

Front and Palmer was a barrel factory. It is now an incredible space that marries rustic, industrial, and traditional elements within one location.

Philip Gabriel Photography 
Petals Lane Inc Floral Design
Feast Your Eyes Catering

 

The Barnes, The Philadelphia Museum of Art, and The National Constitution Center, are just a few of the museums that also offer incredible venue experiences. The Constitution Center has floor to ceiling glass panels that overlook Independence Mall.

Faith West Photography 
Petals Lane Inc Floral Design
Brulee Catering

 

Last but not least is 2300 Arena. A boxing arena by day and runway by night, this venue has mastered the art of multitasking. Originally a freight warehouse, 2300 Arena has been host to wrestling matches and rock concerts, as well as political conventions and Philly Fashion Week. Industrial and open, it can be personalized to meet your aesthetic style.  

Grace Kelly and Meghan Markle: The Royal American Bride

Before there was Meghan Markle, before there was Kate Middleton, before there was even Princess Diana…there was Grace Kelly:

 

Photo by Silver Screen Production

          

A Philadelphia born movie starlet, this American superstar became a European princess when, in 1956,  she wed Prince Rainier III of Monaco. Deemed by the press ‘The Wedding of the Century’, their nuptials were an international sensation. Demand for coverage was so high in fact that MGM studios broadcast the wedding live to more than 30 million European households… in 1956!  To say her wedding style influenced an entire generation of brides would be, well, the understatement of the century. 

 

Monochromatic, tailored, natural – these were the signature elements of Grace Kelly’s iconic style. Some sixty years later, as the world watched another American actress join the ranks of European royalty, we saw a return to these elements. From their fashion choices to their floral style, both Grace Kelly and Meghan Markle showed the world that minimalism can be every bit as elegant and beautiful as opulence.

 

So, what influence might the royal wedding(s) have on this season’s bridal trends?  Here are Petal’s Lane’s 4 predictions:

 

 

1. Less is More: Delicate Bouquets

 

Despite the enormous popularity of cascading bouquets in the mid 20th century, Kelly, chose to carry a delicate bouquet of lilies the valley. Markle also chose to carry a very understated bouquet; hers included not only lily of the valley but also also sweet peas, astilbe, astrantia, and Diana’s favorite flower, the Forget-Me-Not. Markle’s bouquet also incorporated a sprig of myrtle, a royal tradition which dates back to the wedding of Queen Victoria’s daughter, Princess Victoria. Myrtle is known as a symbol of love and of hope, and it has been included in every British monarch’s wedding since the 19th century.

 

Getty Images

 

Getty Images

 

 

2  Bringing the Outside In: Foliage

Rather than wanting perfectly symmetrical bouquets and arrangements, Markle opted for a more casual look that favored seasonal and natural elements – vines, leaves, branches, etc. London-based florist Philippa Craddock worked with both Harry and Meghan on all the flowers for their wedding celebration, and according to Town and Country, she used “branches of beech, birch and hornbeam, along with white garden roses, peonies and foxgloves,” in her arrangements. We predict more brides will be less interested in perfect symmetry and more interested in capturing a plant or flower’s natural shape and form.

 

                                                                                                     

 

3 The Arch

Steeped in tradition, the wedding arch symbolizes the future home of the bride and groom. As if we didn’t already know Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will share a pretty incredible abode (The two will reside at Kensington Palace), the archway at Saint George’s chapel would have been a great hint! The incredible archway atop the doors of Saint George’s was made using pollinator friendly plants and were harvested from the monarchy’s royal parks.  We expect these round archways to make big headway this season. 

 

Getty Images

 

 

4  All White Wedding Decor 

In the words of Billy Idol, it’s a nice day for a white wedding. While royal tradition dictates that flowers should be white, bold colors and multi-hued flowers have long been a popular choice for American brides. As with any pendulum, we are seeing a swing in the other direction. According to The Knot, even Baby’s Breath, that inexpensive stem of tiny white flowers, is making a return in big and small ways. It pairs perfectly with on-trend greenery and works well for flower crowns and other small hairpieces. It seems bouquets, centerpieces, even dance floors are getting a new look. 

 

Sarah DiCicco Photography
MK Photography
Rachel Pearlman Photography
Andrew Graham Todes Photography

Winter Weddings: Ideas and Inspirations

For winter weddings, there are so many beautiful directions your wedding can take. Whether you want to embrace the colors of the season, or favor a winter wonderland, here are some tried and true ways to maximize this wonderful wedding season!

SEASONAL DETAILS

People who elect to get married in the winter, often do so because they feel connected to the way this season makes them feel … so for a winter wedding, it is always a good idea to feature seasonal details! Whether it’s a beautiful fireplace, birch and pine, or twinkling lights, fill the space with elements that exude warmth and a nod to the time of year.

Rachel Pearlman Photography
Rachel Pearlman Photography

‘TIS THE SEASON

Want to deck the halls for your winter wedding? There are so many ways to tastefully incorporate the colors of the season into your big day. From festive invitations to bouquets filled with freesia and hypericum berries – to tables strewn with boughs of holly – these are sure fire ways to make any wedding feel festive!

Rachel Pearlman Photography
Rachel Pearlman Photography

WINTER WHITE WONDERLAND

A monochromatic theme is a luxe and modern way to play up the winter season. Baby’s breath, anemonies, roses, and woodland inspired décor is a stunning option.

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Asya Photography

 

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Asya Photography
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Asya Photography
Alison Conklin Photography

 

WARM AND FUZZY FABRICS AND PRINTS

Nothing says “cozy winter wedding” like faux fur or pretty plaids! Whether worn by the bride, or incorporated into your invitations – don’t be afraid to experiment with fabric as a key design element!

Rachel Pearlman Photography
Rachel Pearlman Photography
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Asya Photography

 

Eye-catching prints are also on trend – Winterize the looks by using rich, and moody colors, and empower your bridesmaids to stand out from the crowd!

We Laugh We Love Photography

RINGING IN THE NEW YEAR

What better way to start of the new year than to celebrate your wedding with those you love most? A little glitz, a little glam, a little sparkle, a little shine – Black and Gold accents are the perfect choices for an elegant New Year’s Eve soiree!

Alison Conklin Photography

 

Asya Photography

Asya Photography

 

All Floral Designs By Petals Lane Inc. 

Colleen and Michael | College of Physicians

Michael and Colleen were married in a beautiful winter wedding at the College of Physicians. The deep magenta and ruby hues were complemented by subtle pops of ivory and violet which really highlighted the reception centerpieces. Colleen’s gown was hands down one of the most beautiful dresses we had ever seen, and so fitting for such a gorgeous bride! We were thrilled to work with such amazing vendors such as Gina Sole, the Wedding Planner and loved every second we were able to spend helping this couple bring their floral ideas to life. Congratulations again, Colleen and Michael!

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Eva and Aaron | Kimmel Center

Eva and Aaron were married this past June at  St. Patrick’s Philadelphia in what was a gorgeous day, second only to the bride herself who was absolutely stunning! We opted for a cascading bridal bouquet and coordinating bunches for the bridesmaids. The plush pale pinks and ivories within the bouquet complemented the deep burgundy and fuchsia display arrangements at their Kimmel Center reception. When reflecting on this year’s work, this wedding stood out among many as one of our most fun creations. We hope this couple enjoyed every bit of their day as much as we did working with them! Congratulations again, Aaron and Eva!

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All photos courtesy of Asya Photography. For more information, contact Asya at (610) 864-6363.

Featured: Philadelphia Wedding Magazine, Winter Issue

We are so overjoyed that one of our clients were featured in Philadelphia Wedding magazine’s Winter issue! Alexandra and Nelson were married at the Union League, and we were privileged to work with the always stellar Gina Sole, the talented Emily from Emily Wren Photo, and the electric Jellyroll. Here are some of the spreads from the article. Be sure to stay tuned for more highlighted features soon!

Brittany + Hunter | The Union League

Hunter and Brittany were married in a beautiful wedding at the Union League. The elegant ivories paired wonderfully with the bridesmaids’ bold and blue dresses, accented by the pops of green in their bouquets. The reception arrangements were a mix of high and low calla lilies and hydrangea, among other florals. We wish this stunning couple many years of wedded bliss ahead, and are so thankful we were a part of their timeless and sophisticated nuptials. Congratulations again, Brittany and Hunter!

All photos courtesy of Campli Photography. For more information, contact studio@campliphoto.com.

Amanda + Colin | The Farmhouse at People’s Light

Colin and Amanda were married this past August in a gorgeous ode to all things summer. The weather was nothing less than perfect, and the floral arrangements were a marvelous testament to the season. Amanda’s bouquet was a large bundle of seasonal goodness, boasting a color scheme that included soft ivory hues and pops of peach. While her bridesmaids were dressed in champagne and sequins, their baby’s breath bouquets complemented their gowns marvelously. We were so happy to be a part of this picturesque party, and wish this couple many years of continued happiness!

Valley Forge National Park

Valley Forge National Park

The Farmhouse at People's LIght

The Farmhouse at People's LIght

The Farmhouse at People's LIght

 

All photos courtesy of Kristina Elizabeth Photography. For more information, contact kristinaelizabethphotography@gmail.com.

 

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