We absolutely couldn't wait for this wedding event to arrive! Lauren and Hunter were already officially married, actually... they had an amazing private wedding ceremony in the Maldives a couple of years ago. But now, they wanted the big celebration with their friends and family to go with it! We were over the moon to be asked to film not only their wedding reception, but also the rehearsal beforehand and brunch afterwards, all in celebration of their union in marriage.
And speaking of union, their weekend's events were held at the beautiful, historic club, the Union League of Philadelphia. The elegance and grandeur of this venue was enhanced even more with a stunning floral wall in soft ivory blooms by Nicol Floral Design. Gold and black were the classic theme colors for this wedding and were found all throughout the event in the attire, reception table linens and décor.
For their Saturday reception, Hunter dressed into his classic black tuxedo for this very formal day. He looked very handsome, and so excited and ready to celebrate! Then when he was all dressed, he even helped Lauren fasten her amazing gown for the event.
The dress Lauren wore for her reception was the same gorgeous Jenny Packham gown worn by Kate Middleton at a James Bond film premier event in London! This glittering gold sequined gown had a beautiful tulle overlay and a plunging v-neckline. But equally eye-catching were its dramatic shoulder detail, the wonderful gather at the center waistline and that light and gauzy embellished cape. Absolutely stunning! Lauren was such a beautiful bride.
The two shared heartfelt love notes, so real and so personal, that they wrote for each other shortly before the party started. We loved how they so clearly expressed their enduring love and just how excited they were for this day to arrive.
Then, additional formal photographs were taken by Paul Von Rieter and his second shooter. Lauren and Hunter had so much fun as both those formal and candid photos were taken throughout the weekend's events. And it was so great to have the opportunity to work with them. The couple's two cute pups got in on the photo shoot and the day's celebrations, too! We can't wait to see some of the photos!
As the reception began, Hunter entered the ballroom, with Lauren arriving shortly afterwards on the arm of her father. The couple then shared their first dance together. This was followed by Lauren's special dance with her father. He later gave a sweet toast to the couple of honor during dinner, and we loved when he said there were three things Hunter had to do in asking for Lauren's hand: he had to like her, he had to be in love with her and he had to be fully invested in the marriage they desired.
The party really kicked off right after dinner and BVT Live! rocked the house all night! What a fun crowd Lauren and Hunter had there to celebrate with them! And later in the evening, the chocolatier at the Union League brought out a sweet (literally!) chocolate landscape surprise for everyone! Simply fantastic!
This amazing, very bespoke wedding celebration is one we know we'll never forget. Not only was it so much fun, but it was such a pleasure to work with Lauren and Hunter, from our first phone conversation to the end of Sunday's brunch. It was truly an honor to film their whole wedding weekend. Congratulations again to Lauren and Hunter!
Photographer: Paul Von Rieter - CA
Floral Design: Nicol Floral Design - Nicol Segel - Wayne, PA
Hair Stylist: Giovanni & Pileggi - Philadelphia, PA
Makeup Artist: Giovanni & Pileggi - Philadelphia, PA
Wedding Dress: Jenny Packham - 'Goldfinger'
Entertainment: BVT Live! - Chadds Ford, PA
Cake: Union League of Philadelphia Catering - Philadelphia, PA
Liquid Nitrogen Drinks/Ice Cream: Frost 321
Venue: Union League of Philadelphia - Philadelphia, PA