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.  

Ryan & Kristin

Ryan and Kristin were married this past June at St. John the Evangelist Church. The bridesmaids’ bouquet color combinations of soft floral hues complimented their assorted navy dresses perfectly. The reception followed at the Crystal Tea Room, a favored venue easy to design with its gorgeous interior decor ready to enhance any event. With each display marvelously pin-spotted, we used varied high centerpieces with a mix of floral options while the low centerpieces were accented with stemmed votive holders. It was a beautiful wedding featuring a delightful couple. Congratulations, Ryan and Kristin!

Ceremony: St. John the Evangelist
Photographer: Alison Conklin
Bride’s dress: Jenny Lee
Bridesmaids Dresses: Watters and Watters
Hair: Amanda D’Andrea
Make-Up: Gloria Hawkins
Band: Dreamtime
Paper: Chick Invitations
Planner: Katie Robinson – DFW Planning
Reception: The Crystal Tea Room
Videographer: Life Images

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All photos courtesy of Alison Conklin Photography. For more information, contact Alison at hello@alisonconklin.com.

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