A Timeless and Glam Wedding at the Free Library of Philadelphia

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Location: Philadelphia, PA, US
Setting: Historical City Library
The number of guests: 120
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
Wedding theme/style: Classic, timeless minimalist and elegant wedding.

Toni and Matt first met at a party while they were both freshmen in college. Both were student-athletes and happened to live on the same floor in their dorm. They continued to date throughout college, and as Matt’s athletic career blossomed—he eventually became a center for the Atlanta Falcons—the couple realized it was time for their relationship to take the next step. During a trip to Sedona, Arizona, they planned a hike, and as they sat on the rocks, watching the sunset, Matt popped the question.

Their wedding took place at the Free Library of Philadelphia, inspired by the Beaux-Arts architecture of the building. Two pillars adorned with white roses and hydrangeas framed their ceremony under the grand marble columns, where Toni and her bridesmaids carried exquisite calla lily bouquets. The reception took place on a rooftop patio with a stunning view of the Philadelphia skyline. The setup included market lighting, a checkered dance floor, and a large marquee sign displaying the couple’s last name—an ideal setting for a night of dancing and celebration.

Toni had a wonderful wedding morning, surrounded by her family and bridesmaids. She shared celebratory toasts with her bridesmaids, all wearing matching outfits. Toni opted for an elegant dress with a simple and sleek design. The dress featured a deep V-neckline and was form-fitting, highlighting her figure beautifully. Her hair was styled in a low bun, and her makeup was natural, focusing on subtly enhancing her features. Her bouquet consisted of white flowers, perfectly complementing the minimalist and elegant theme of the wedding.

The wedding morning continued with Toni and her bridesmaids enjoying a styled photoshoot at the venue. The atmosphere was relaxed and joyful, and everyone cherished the moment. The photos beautifully capture their laughter, happiness, and the special bond on this significant day.

Matt’s wedding morning was relaxing as he prepared for the ceremony with the help of his groomsmen. He wore a white tuxedo jacket with black lapels, a black bow tie, and trousers. They shared light-hearted moments, creating a relaxed yet festive atmosphere. Everyone was excited about the upcoming ceremony and celebration.

Toni and Matt’s ceremony was held in an elegant, grand hall featuring classical architecture, tall columns, and ornate ceilings. At the end of the aisle, two tall floral arrangements of white flowers and greenery framed the space where they exchanged their vows.

A guest book station, adorned with a simple yet elegant arrangement of white roses, invited guests to leave their well wishes for the couple.

As the ceremony began, Toni made a stunning entrance, walking down a grand staircase and holding a bouquet of white calla lilies. She was escorted down the aisle by her parents. Toni and Matt held hands and exchanged vows as the officiant led them through the ceremony, which was filled with heartfelt moments and smiles.

After the ceremony, the newlyweds spent time exchanging personal messages in a beautifully decorated library. They stood back-to-back, holding hands and each holding an envelope addressed to the other. The moment was filled with deep affection and happiness as they shared it amidst the books.

Right before the celebration, Toni and Matt spent some private moments together and had portraits taken with the picturesque background and inside the venue. The entire wedding was stunning, with their photographer, Hellen CO Photos, capturing all the special moments throughout the day. She skillfully portrayed the magical atmosphere of this glamorous and elegant wedding in the historic library. From the newlyweds exchanging their vows to candid moments, warm times spent with loved ones, and a picturesque celebration filled with fun and dancing, Hellen CO Photos beautifully documented the essence of their special day.

The reception space was elegantly designed, focusing on white florals and minimalistic details. The florist crafted the concept with calla lily bouquets, aligning perfectly with the bride’s preference for a minimal and white floral arrangement. The tables were set with white linens and black napkins, adorned with tall glass vases filled with white flowers, including calla lilies and other blooms, creating simple yet sophisticated centerpieces. The four-tiered wedding cake was adorned with a cascading arrangement of white roses and greenery, displayed on a silver cake stand with small candles and additional white flowers around.

Matt and Toni’s reception was a joyous celebration. They made a grand entrance to join their guests, greeted with applause and cheers from friends and family, creating a lively atmosphere. The newlyweds shared their first dance on the dance floor, followed by Toni’s heartfelt dance with her father and Matt’s emotional dance with his mother. The evening continued with speeches where guests shared their well-wishes and memories, bringing smiles and laughter.

Once the sun went down, Matt and Toni took center stage to cut their beautiful, four-tiered wedding cake, which was adorned with white roses and greenery.

Hellen Co Photos perfectly captured the lively and joyful atmosphere of the night of dancing. Toni changed into a mini dress and sneakers, ready to dance the night away. Guests were on the dance floor, enjoying themselves and celebrating the newlyweds. The night ended with a grand exit as Matt and Toni walked hand in hand through a tunnel of guests cheering with glow sticks, creating a festive and memorable send-off.