Wonderful Water Works Wedding

Lisa and Matt were married at the beautiful and historic Water Works in Philadelphia, and it was such a treat to work with this wonderful couple.

Every detail of the day was carefully and lovingly planned with the help of DFW Event Design. From the flower wall to the chandeliers, the space glistened and glowed.

Rich, autumnal hues were paired alongside soft ivory and blush tones to create an extremely romantic floral design.

The couple was photographed by the supremely talented Dyanna LaMora. She captured every moment of the day, from the first look at the Rodin Museum to the bride and her father’s ride to the ceremony in her father’s beautiful vintage car.

Surrounded by family and friends, they made their vows and then danced the night away to the wonderful music of Jelly Roll.

Best wishes,  Lisa and Matt!

 

  

 

  

  

  

 

 

 

 

 

   

Fall Wedding Feature: Modern Industrial Meets Romantic

If you are looking for more fall wedding inspiration, look no further than Colin and Alex’s wedding at Front and Palmer. Held last October, these handsome grooms paired moderns elements with romantic touches, and the result was a beautiful combination of colors and textures.

Soft white flowers balanced the bold leafy greenery, and warm wood tones balanced the crisp charcoal gray linens. Floating floral table runners added depth to the space, and Edison string lights tastefully incorporated modern whimsy and warmth.

We were honored to work on this wedding and to have had the opportunity to work with side by side with some wonderfully talented vendors, like Grace D Photography who captured these lovely images.

 

 

 

 

Photographer: Grace D Photography

Flowers: Petals Lane 

Venue: Front and Palmer 

Catering: Feast Your Eyes 

Wedding Planner: Kyle Michelle Weddings 

Lighting: Synergetic Sound & Lighting 

DJ: Lovesick 

 

Fall Wedding Trends

Happy Fall, Y’all!

Ok, we’re not southern, but September marks the start of Fall Wedding Season (which probably doesn’t need to be italicized and certainly doesn’t need to be capitalized, but we’re really trying to emphasize how excited we are over here!)

The change in season brings a change in color schemes, styles, and trends, so we thought we’d round up some of our favorite fall looks for any of you bride-to-be’s planning a wedding for this time next year!!

 

Succulents & Saturated Colors 

While succulents are pretty any time of year, they pair perfectly with the rich colors of fall! For this event, we decided to contrast the cooler colors with warm golden accents, and it seemed to strike just the right balance.

 

Pretty Purples Accents 

Egglplant, Plum, Wine, Aubergine … A purple by any other name would look just a pretty! Here, we decided to play with pops of color, again incorporating beautiful brassy tones against the soft wooden tables. Paired with ethereal twinkle lights, it’s a match made in heaven!

 

  

  

  

Images courtesy of Haley Richter Photo 

 

Modern Monochromatic 

Crisp. Clean. Bold. Geometric. We love this combination of black and green, and we love the way the simplicity allows each individual flower to shine. This lovely couple held their wedding reception at an upscale restaurant, and they wanted it to be elegant but understated, and these rich greens and the contrasting black and white was the perfect palette.

 

 

 

 

Greek Wedding Traditions

In April 2002, an independent film starring an unknown actress was given a limited release. That film, which was made on a 5 million dollar budget, went on to earn 368 million dollars in box office revenue, making it the highest-grossing independent film ever and by most standards the most successful romantic comedy in movie history! What movie, you ask? My Big Fat Greek Wedding.

 

Filled with endearing characters and witty, comedic dialogue, it is easy to see why this film was a hit. But, what turned it into a worldwide phenomenon? Some of it had to do with timing – the movie went ‘viral’ before that word was part of our collective vocabulary – but we believe its enduring success stems from its universal themes surrounding love, family, friends, and they ways in which traditions are used to represent the things we value most.

 

As wedding florists and designers, we are granted the opportunity to learn about and witness so many beautiful wedding traditions. We recently helped design not one, but two Big, Beautiful Greek Weddings, so we thought it would be fun to share the history behind some of these time honored traditions. 

 


Image Courtesy of Ron Soliman Photojournalism

 

The Stefana  

According to The Knot, the Stefana is the focal point of the wedding ceremony. It represents the joining of the couple, and it acknowledges their role as the King and Queen of their home. It also symbolizes the hope they they will ‘rule’ their home with wisdom, justice, and integrity. In the same vein as the exchange of rings, the stefana, or wedding crowns, are blessed by the priest and passed between the almost-newlyweds three times before being placed on their heads.

 

Images Courtesy of Sarah DiCicco Photography

 

 Lambades

Widely known as lambades, the wedding candle is a very symbolic element of a Greek Orthodox ceremony.The candles that are used during the sacrament of the wedding serve as a symbol of purity and the way God will light the way for the couple.  The bride and groom each hold a lit candle during the sacrament to show their willingness to receive God’s blessing.

 

Images Courtesy of Ron Soliman Photojournalism

 

 

Koufetta

Another very popular tradition is to offer koufetta—fresh almonds with a sugar coating. The almonds themselves, which are hard, represent the challenges the couple may face in life, while the coating represents the sweet times and happiness the couple will share. According to Greek Weddings and Traditions, These almond treats are always given out in odd numbers because an odd number is indivisible, just as the bride and groom should always be undivided. Historically, they were placed on the marital bed the day before the ceremony; Today, they are often given to guests as a wedding favor – called a Bomboniere.

Image Courtesy of Sarah DiCicco Photography

 

Rice Shower

In the same vein, rice is also used in many Greek weddings. Rice, a symbol of fertility and prosperity, is often thrown at the couple as a way to wish them a happy and blessed life together!

 

    

Images Courtesy of Sarah DiCicco Photography

Image Courtesy of Ron Soliman Photography

 

Dancing

It’s not a Greek wedding without lots and lots of dancing!  Whether it is The Bride’s Dance, also known as the Kalamatianos, or the Sirtaki, these circle dances bring together friends and family to celebrate the union of the bride and groom.

One of the most famous dances is The “Money Dance”.  In some regions of Greece, money is pinned directly to the bride’s gown throughout the evening, but in most Greek American receptions, the money is commonly thrown on/near a dancing couple to wish them good fortune and prosperity.

 

 

Images Courtesy of Ron Soliman Photojournalism

Images Courtesy of Sarah DiCicco Photography

Bobby and Maria’s Wedding:
Reception Venue – The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia
Reception Caterer – The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia
Ceremony Venue – Saint George’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral
Event Lighting – Petals Lane
Band – Power Station Entertainment
Wedding Planner- Lauren James Events (LJ Events)
Event Designer – Petals Lane
Photographer – Sarah DiCicco
Cinematography – CinemaCake Filmmakers
Makeup Artist – Julie Kate & Co.
Hair Stylists – Jason Matthews Salon
Floral Designer – Petals Lane
Wedding Cake – Van Earl’s Cake

George and Amalia’s Wedding:
Reception Venue – Ballroom at the Ben
Reception Caterer – Finley Catering 
Floral Designer – Petals Lane
Photographer – Ron Soliman
Cinematography – Ron Adams
Wedding Cake – Finley Catering

Philadelphia Wedding Venues: A Union of Past and Present

Philadelphia. City of brotherly love. It is as famous for its food and fictional characters as it is for its historical significance. It is also a city of firsts – We were the first American capital. We were the first American city to have a daily newspaper. We were also the first to have an art museum or a zoo. We were even the first major metropolis to have a hospital and medical school.  In fact, did you know that 1 in 6 doctors in the United States has had Medical Training in Philadelphia?! Not too shabby… 

 

One of the ways this historical city has maintained its prominence on a national and global stage is it’s ability to multi-task, to diversify. We are home to Rocky and The Rodin, the founding fathers and the Philly cheesesteak, The Museum of Art and the Mummers. It comes as no surprise then that some of the best wedding venues in Philly are ones that, like the city itself, also know how to multitask. Some of the most beautiful events spaces in the city started out as something else entirely, and/or function in more than one way. 

Here are a few of our favorites:

 

First up we have Union Trust. It was originally a bank, and now it is a gorgeous multi-story space with engraved ceilings and gilded historical touches.  

Image may contain: indoor  Petals Lane Inc Floral Design
Finley Catering

 

The Crystal Tea Room, with its detailed columns and magnificent chandeliers, was once a private dining room and restaurant in Wanamaker’s. Another fun fact – It was the first restaurant within a department store.

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 Petals Lane Inc Floral Design
Finley Catering

 

Front and Palmer was a barrel factory. It is now an incredible space that marries rustic, industrial, and traditional elements within one location.

Philip Gabriel Photography 
Petals Lane Inc Floral Design
Feast Your Eyes Catering

 

The Barnes, The Philadelphia Museum of Art, and The National Constitution Center, are just a few of the museums that also offer incredible venue experiences. The Constitution Center has floor to ceiling glass panels that overlook Independence Mall.

Faith West Photography 
Petals Lane Inc Floral Design
Brulee Catering

 

Last but not least is 2300 Arena. A boxing arena by day and runway by night, this venue has mastered the art of multitasking. Originally a freight warehouse, 2300 Arena has been host to wrestling matches and rock concerts, as well as political conventions and Philly Fashion Week. Industrial and open, it can be personalized to meet your aesthetic style.  

Grace Kelly and Meghan Markle: The Royal American Bride

Before there was Meghan Markle, before there was Kate Middleton, before there was even Princess Diana…there was Grace Kelly:

 

Photo by Silver Screen Production

          

A Philadelphia born movie starlet, this American superstar became a European princess when, in 1956,  she wed Prince Rainier III of Monaco. Deemed by the press ‘The Wedding of the Century’, their nuptials were an international sensation. Demand for coverage was so high in fact that MGM studios broadcast the wedding live to more than 30 million European households… in 1956!  To say her wedding style influenced an entire generation of brides would be, well, the understatement of the century. 

 

Monochromatic, tailored, natural – these were the signature elements of Grace Kelly’s iconic style. Some sixty years later, as the world watched another American actress join the ranks of European royalty, we saw a return to these elements. From their fashion choices to their floral style, both Grace Kelly and Meghan Markle showed the world that minimalism can be every bit as elegant and beautiful as opulence.

 

So, what influence might the royal wedding(s) have on this season’s bridal trends?  Here are Petal’s Lane’s 4 predictions:

 

 

1. Less is More: Delicate Bouquets

 

Despite the enormous popularity of cascading bouquets in the mid 20th century, Kelly, chose to carry a delicate bouquet of lilies the valley. Markle also chose to carry a very understated bouquet; hers included not only lily of the valley but also also sweet peas, astilbe, astrantia, and Diana’s favorite flower, the Forget-Me-Not. Markle’s bouquet also incorporated a sprig of myrtle, a royal tradition which dates back to the wedding of Queen Victoria’s daughter, Princess Victoria. Myrtle is known as a symbol of love and of hope, and it has been included in every British monarch’s wedding since the 19th century.

 

Getty Images

 

Getty Images

 

 

2  Bringing the Outside In: Foliage

Rather than wanting perfectly symmetrical bouquets and arrangements, Markle opted for a more casual look that favored seasonal and natural elements – vines, leaves, branches, etc. London-based florist Philippa Craddock worked with both Harry and Meghan on all the flowers for their wedding celebration, and according to Town and Country, she used “branches of beech, birch and hornbeam, along with white garden roses, peonies and foxgloves,” in her arrangements. We predict more brides will be less interested in perfect symmetry and more interested in capturing a plant or flower’s natural shape and form.

 

                                                                                                     

 

3 The Arch

Steeped in tradition, the wedding arch symbolizes the future home of the bride and groom. As if we didn’t already know Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will share a pretty incredible abode (The two will reside at Kensington Palace), the archway at Saint George’s chapel would have been a great hint! The incredible archway atop the doors of Saint George’s was made using pollinator friendly plants and were harvested from the monarchy’s royal parks.  We expect these round archways to make big headway this season. 

 

Getty Images

 

 

4  All White Wedding Decor 

In the words of Billy Idol, it’s a nice day for a white wedding. While royal tradition dictates that flowers should be white, bold colors and multi-hued flowers have long been a popular choice for American brides. As with any pendulum, we are seeing a swing in the other direction. According to The Knot, even Baby’s Breath, that inexpensive stem of tiny white flowers, is making a return in big and small ways. It pairs perfectly with on-trend greenery and works well for flower crowns and other small hairpieces. It seems bouquets, centerpieces, even dance floors are getting a new look. 

 

Sarah DiCicco Photography
MK Photography
Rachel Pearlman Photography
Andrew Graham Todes Photography

Quinn & Kelly

Quinn and Kelly were married this past July in a magnificent Ritz-Carlton, glitter inspired wedding. The color scheme blended so well, and the soft pastel floral arrangements complemented the gold tones and deep blue hues perfectly. Not only was this day beautiful, but the love between this couple was so radiantly evident. We had such a blast working with both Kelly and Quinn, and we wish them a wonderful marriage full of happiness and laughter for a lifetime to come!

Venue: The Ritz Carlton Philadelphia
Photography: Tina Jay Photography
Wedding Planner: Truly You Events
Videographer: RoseTree Films
Band: Sid Miller Dance Band
Invitations: Chick Invitations
Hair/Makeup: Duette Hair & Makeup Design

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All photos courtesy of Tina Jay Photography. For more information, contact tina@tinajay.com.

Michael & Yun

Michael and Yun were married in a beautiful spring ceremony back in April. The sun was shining brightly for this sweet couple as the weather was picture perfect (and there are some perfect pictures from our friends at Love Me Do Photography). Their reception was also held at Pomme, which was a gorgeous location for the style Yun was envisioning. The ivory color palette in her floral arrangements complemented the bridal party attire and reception space effortlessly. We had a great time working with this fun-loving couple. Congratulations, Yun and Michael!

Venue: Pomme
Cake/Bakery: Brown Betty
DJ/Band: Silversound
Photography: Love Me Do Photography
Bride’s Dress: Kelly Faetianini – Elizabeth Johns

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All photos courtesy of Love Me Do Photography. For more information, contact (215) 407-2839.

Brian & Michelle

Brian and Michelle were married on a spectacular summer day last August. Their nuptials were spectacular, from the absolutely gorgeous weather to the magnificent ivory and white details. After their sweet ceremony at their family Parish, the party began at the Free Library of Philadelphia where the bride and groom and their enthusiastic guests danced by moonlight into the evening. Michelle’s love of white orchids was on full display, as the bouquets, centerpieces and boutonnieres all included the romantic flower. The beautiful bride shared a few highlights from her special day:

“We put some palms out on the terrace to warm up the heavy city look of the skyline. But one of my favorite pieces was the crystal curtain we placed inside. We draped one window inside the dinner room with a crystal curtain. Then Brittany hung a huge floral “H” made out of orchids in front with fishing wire. It was spectacular. Petals Lane was by far my favorite vendor to work with.. Brittany is just so amazing.. She really can see your vision and works with you to make sure all of your dreams come true.”

Michelle notes that her favorite floral element of the day was her bouquet, a cascading arrangement of white, delicate orchids. For a touching addition, we adorned the bouquet with her grandmother’s breathtaking rosary beads. Michelle said she carried it with her everywhere: from the church, to the reception, to the after party to the airport the next day on the way to Barcelona for their honeymoon!

It was an absolute pleasure working with this stunning and adorable couple. We wish you both many years full of happiness and love! Congratulations again, Michelle and Brian!

Photographer: Michael Kerr Photography
Ceremony: Family Parish
Reception: Free Library of Philadelphia
Caterer: Jimmy Duffy’s Catering
Music/Lighting: Norma Michaels Entertainment
Hotel: Sofitel

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All photos courtesy of Michael Kerr Photography. For more information, contact info@mkphoto.com.

David & Stephanie

David and Stephanie were married last September at the Independence Seaport Museum on Penn’s Landing. This Philly themed wedding had as much notable local inclusions as it did the color purple, which matched effortlessly. With the weather miraculously cooperating, the outdoor ceremony pressed forward. The night continued into the ballroom and terrace decks where the combination of high centerpieces and submerged low orchids complemented the venue magnificently. Stephanie carried a bouquet filled with lavender and ivory roses, stock and by request, Picasso lilies and fiddle-head ferns, while her bridesmaids’ ivory bouquets were accented with pops of purple. David wore a matching Picasso lily boutonniere, while his groomsmen donned lavender roses. The night was absolutely magical, and we’re so thankful for the opportunity to have played a part in this couple’s special day. Congratulations again, Steph and Dave!

Venue: Independence Seaport Museum
Officiant: Journeys of the Heart
Ceremony Music: Philadelphia String Quartet
Photography: Werth Photography
Videography: Cinemacake
Hair: Duette Hair Design
Makeup: Victoria of Make Me Up Pretty
Stationery: April Lynn Designs
DJ: Kyle of Synergetic Sounds and Lighting
Dress: David Tutera for Mon Cheri

Philadelphia Seaport Museum Wedding Photos - Werth Photography-9

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All photos courtesy of Werth Photography. For more information, contact (215) 490-4853.

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