Amanda + Mark | Front & Palmer, Kensington

In my seven years of doing wedding photography, I can’t recall another instance of a couple getting ready together, alone in the same space. My husband and I got ready together in our house while prepping for our backyard wedding. That quiet time together remains to be one of my favorite memories from our wedding day.

The same could be said for the time I spent with Amanda and Mark while they were getting ready in their Kensington Airbnb. I caught a glimpse of Mark zipping up Amanda’s gown and probably ruined the intimate moment by squealing. It was hands-down one of the cutest things I’ve ever witnessed. And I used to scroll through pages on Cute Overload every night, so I’m a trained professional.

During their portrait session, we walked down Frankford Ave together. We stopped inside some of their favorite shops — La Colombe and Jinxed, and along the murals at Honeygrow’s Headquarters. All of their details went together beautifully, especially Amanda’s bouquet, which included dried mushrooms (Falls Flowers, I love you).

During Amanda and Mark’s ceremony under the dimmed chandeliers at Front & Palmer, I discovered more similarities between us. They, too, shared anecdotes about inserting their dog’s name into songs. My husband and I both mentioned the same thing in our own vows. If that doesn’t make us spirit animals, I don’t know what does.

Everything about their day was carefully considered, while remaining completely laid-back and comfortable. It was an absolute pleasure to capture the day — from those quiet getting ready moments, to a karaoke rendition of Boyz II Men’s “I’ll Make Love to You” during the reception.