bride and groom kissing with Philadelphia skyline behind them

Min and Lois had a beautiful October wedding day in Philadelphia!

City chic meets classic feel…that is how I would describe their vibe for the day. These two clearly have a strong love for one another and also a strong upbringing, filled with rich traditions. There were so many beautiful, emotional moments throughout the day that made it so very special. And, also so many little touches and attention to detail that brought forth attention to their traditions and upbringings.

bride getting ready with her bridesmaids

The day began with a soft, overcast sky, casting a gentle glow over Philadelphia, setting the perfect backdrop for a beautiful urban wedding in October. The couple, surrounded by their closest family and friends, shared laughter and love as they prepared for the momentous occasion. Min had his best man helping him during getting ready and Lois had her closest bridesmaids primping her up as she prepared to see her soon-to-be husband.

There were definitely some nerves brewing as getting ready was taking place. This is why I absolutely love this part of the day. I love feeling all of these emotions running on high as the anticipation of each moment of the day awaits. I love that sense of “calm before the storm”, so to speak.

closeup photo of bride touching her necklace

bride holding perfume bottle and wearing sunglasses

bride and her sister during getting ready
bridesmaids fixing up the bride

groom checking his cuffs while best man looks over him

bride looking at the camera
bride smelling her bouquet

emotional first look between bride and groom
bride crying happy tears during first look

I absolutely love doing first looks at the Loews Hotel in Philadelphia. The scenic backdrop of the beautiful Philly skyline is just incredible. But, what’s even more incredible is when there is a rush of emotion during this moment where the bride and groom see each other for the first time on their wedding day. As soon as Lois started to walk up to Min to tap him on the shoulder, tears began to roll down her face. The nervous energy felt during getting ready turned into a ball of emotional energy during the first look, and it exploded once they laid eyes upon each other. This one image of Min’s hand on her shoulder and her wiping her tears is what makes my job the best job in the world. To capture that raw and unveiled emotion is what makes me the most happy as a photographer.

bridal party photos at city hall in Philadelphia

bride and groom portraits at city hall in Philadelphia

bride and groom’s arms wrapped around each other

bride and groom looking at each other and looking at bride’s bouquet

Lois requested to do all portraits at City Hall in Philadelphia and I couldn’t disagree that it is a quintessential, perfect backdrop for wedding day photos. We captured all of the family, bridal party and couple portraits in this spot and still got so many different backgrounds/looks. Can’t ask for anything better than that for a fall, city wedding! Lois and Min walked around the busy streets of the city, danced (and dipped!) in the gates of City Hall and held each other close the entire time.

Once we arrived at the Philly venue, we also did a few couples portraits there as well. There is a beautiful area near the venue Tendenza by Cescaphe, called The Piazza where there are a few prime spots to get some beautiful photographs.

groom twirling bride while she throws her gown

bride and groom posing at the gates of city hall in Philadelphia

bride and groom walking around the streets of Philadelphia

Following portraits, there was a short and sweet, but beautiful indoor ceremony at the venue that was filled with love and pure joy. A room filled with warmth, surrounded by many close friends and family, watching on and feeling all of the emotions of this exchanging of vows.

wedding ceremony at Tendenza by Cescaphe in Philadelphia

reception details at venue in Philadelphia

bridemaids holding cutout of bride’s face at wedding reception

father daughter dance and mother son dance

The reception was a lively affair, filled with heartfelt speeches (especially those from both sets of parents) and dancing, the ambiance electric with affection. Surrounded by loved ones, the couple reveled in the celebration, creating memories that would last a lifetime. As the evening wound down, the overcast sky transformed into a canvas of twinkling city lights, mirroring the love that filled the air—a beautiful testament to a day steeped in warmth, family, and the undeniable charm of an urban wedding in Philadelphia.

The speeches made by Lois and Min’s parents was one of the highlights of the day. They portrayed their rich Asian culture and traditions and mostly were filled with so much love and joy and overwhelming emotion. From Min’s father playing a tune on the harmonica to Lois’ mother choking back tears during her husband’s speech, there was so many special moments to be captured.

Another highlight was Min’s best man playing a song on the keyboard that was written for them. The couple watched on as he played this most beautiful tune and the looks on their faces as they took it all in was just something to be admired. It was such a grand gesture of love and respect for the couple and also just the most precious gift to them.

wedding speeches given by best man and maid of honor
wedding speeches give by parents of Asian decent

bride and groom watching best man give a musical performance in honor of them on their wedding day

Congratulations to Min and Lois on their stunning Philadelphia wedding!

Cheers to the both of you on your marriage and for many years of continued love and happiness. Much love!

Warmly,

Danielle Kearney

Philadelphia Wedding Photography|Min + Lois

Hammonton Wedding Photography | Ben + Valerie