Real Wedding | Kate + Michael

Romantic lighting and an elegant white and gold decor created a stunning atmosphere at Kate and Michael’s Philadelphia wedding.  Little details like the super-cute “Mr. & Mrs.” chair signs and the sweet candy bar are sure to inspire. And, when Kate danced the night away in her gorgeous Monique Lhullier gown, she knew that the dress she never expected to love was actually her perfect fit. Cheers to this fun couple and to a lifetime of happy memories to come!

Kate + Michael | March 26, 2011 | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The ceremony

We had a traditional Jewish ceremony at the Rittenhouse Hotel in Philadelphia.  We chose an all white ceremony space with a ton of candlelight for a romantic feel. Our event planners, Erin Proud and Lisa Kervick of Proud to Plan were phenomenal partners in making sure everything was perfect.  The stationary arm of their business, Paper by Proud, created the ceremony programs, chair signs, menus and reception signage to match the invitations (by Bella Figura) in white with touches of gold and chocolate brown.

The reception

Our reception was also held at the Rittenhouse.  Our wonderful event designers, Evantine Design, transformed the ballroom during the cocktail hour.  Each table had a different centerpiece of all white flowers with touches of gold accents.  At the end of the night, our guests enjoyed a gigantic candy buffet and took home a midnight snack of Philadelphia soft pretzels.

How Kate found her dream wedding dress

The dress I chose was nothing like what I initially thought I wanted.  I went dress shopping planning to buy an Oscar de la Renta strapless A-line gown with a black (or other dark color) sash around the waist.  But, I trusted the instincts of the sales consultant and tried on a two-piece Monique Lhuillier corset and ball skirt.  I immediately fell in love and couldn’t wait to surprise everyone with my choice!

How Kate felt in her wedding dress

I felt glamorous, elegant and like I was floating.

Why Kate decided to sell her wedding dress

It took me a while to decide to sell my dress because I love it so much, but ultimately it’s too fun and pretty to sit in a closet.  Plus it takes up a ton of room! 

Kate’s wedding dress: Monique Lhuillier, Meringue; Photography: Cliff Mautner Photography; Ceremony & Reception venue: The Rittenhouse Hotel; Event Planning: Proud to Plan; Floral Design; Evantine Design