Emily + Mike | Old City Paper Box Wedding

Before having the opportunity to meet with Emily & Mike, I was briefed on their wedding plans and knew immediately that I wanted to document their day. While I hadn't met them yet, it seemed as if every choice that this couple was making kept true to their personalities. First of all, they had chosen to host an intimate, family focused event, which totally resonates with me. They were hosting their wedding in the city where they had fallen in love and had chosen venues that allowed their guests, who had traveled quite some distance, to get a glimpse into the life they had established together. I joined Emily for getting ready photos at Penn's View Hotel, the site of one of my favorite restaurants, Panorama. Emily & Mike's mothers were there to welcome me and it was really special witnessing these women interact with each other and the bride to be. After capturing some beautiful portraits of Emily, we headed out to meet Mike at the 18th Century Garden in Old City Philadelphia. After a sweet first look, we continued the day with a walk through the city, photographing and reflecting on Emily & Mike's relationship. Our stroll ended with a meet-up with the family at Christ's Church for some formals outside on the cobblestones. It was a perfect spring afternoon.

Following photography, we headed up to Paper Box Studios, where the actual ceremony was to take place. Again, Paper Box Studios was such a perfect location! Mike works at the studios and the ceremony was held in one of the company's lofts, perfectly enhancing the urban rustic feeling the couple was going for. The ceremony was truly heartfelt and beautiful words were spoken by family and via handwritten vows read between the couple. As the sun set, we couldn't pass up the opportunity to take some additional photos in the building before finally heading to Amada for the reception dinner.

I am so excited to share a small part of Emily & Mike's story and I hope that you enjoy this imagery as much as I do! ~ I asked Emily, "What do you look forward to most on your wedding day?"

"The quiet moments, in the midst of the chaos, where I can feel like it is just the two of us, loving each other." ~

First Look | 18th Century Garden

Alone Session | Old City Philadelphia

Ceremony | Paper Box Studios

Dinner | Amada

Gown | Catherine Deane, BHLDN

Wedding Bands | Steven Singer

Florist | Nature's Gallery