I Do: Melissa + Kyle | Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts

After photographing Melissa and Kyle’s wedding rehearsal at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, I couldn’t wait for their big day to arrive. My second shooter (and amazing husband) Pete joined me on our walk to Hotel Monaco in the historic district of Philadelphia. The hotel is my absolute favorite — there are dog details everywhere and the lobby — oh my, the lobby. It’s beautiful.

Pete went to hang out with the guys and I joined the ladies, who were getting their hair and makeup done. We both had the pleasure of spending time with the bride and groom’s four-legged friends, which always makes me ecstatic.

After getting ready, Melissa and Kyle had their first look across the street in a shady, green spot. It was an intimate moment, soon contrasted by tourists snapping photos of the couple as they strolled past Independence Hall.

We joined the bridal party on the trolley, which made a quick stop at the fountain in Logan Square before driving us to the venue. I photographed my first ever wedding as a second shooter at PAFA almost four years ago, so it was really fun to revisit America’s oldest museum and school of fine arts. Plus, they have The Gross Clinic on display in the reception area, which made me geek out completely.

Melissa and Kyle did such an impressive job on all of the DIY details and coordinating everything with PAFA. The canvas place cards were hand painted by Melissa and friends and must have taken forever, but looked awesome. It’s not often you find mini Keith Haring paintings and an event painter at a wedding — I felt like I was in my element, surrounded by fellow art enthusiasts.

Watching Melissa and Kyle together was so sweet — I’ve never seen a couple whirl and twirl so much. Spinning definitely put them in their happy place, which made me smile whenever they busted out newlywed moves.

Melissa and Kyle: Thanks again for including Pete and I at your beautiful wedding. We wish you both a lifetime of love (and spinning).

venue: Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania // catering: Jimmy Duffy & Sons // florals: Riehs Florist // live event painter: Joan Zylkin // music: The FM Band // wedding dress: Ines Di Santo // bridesmaids & flower girl dresses: Alfred Angelo // tux designer: // Sartoria Ambrosiana // hair: Signatures du Mei // makeup: Robyn Welsh // hotel for getting ready: Hotel Monaco // transportation: Philadelphia Sightseeing Tours