Susannah and Zack’s Crystal Tea Room Philadelphia wedding was the perfect blend of romance, refined elegance, and a touch of 1920s glamour. Set on a gorgeous September afternoon, the city glowed in that golden early-fall light. From the first look at the Merchants Exchange Building to their ceremony beneath the chandeliers of the Crystal Tea Room, every moment of this day felt effortlessly graceful.
Getting Ready in the Heart of Philadelphia
The morning began in a nearby hotel where both Susannah and Zack got ready, surrounded by their closest family and friends. Soft laughter and excitement filled the bridal suite as Susannah and her bridesmaids, all wearing matching pajamas, prepared for the day. Meanwhile, the guys took a more laid-back approach, sharing drinks, telling stories, and enjoying the anticipation of the day ahead.
Susannah’s mom helped her into her gown, adjusting the final touches with such care. A quiet first look with her father followed, one of those moments that stops time for just a second. Then came the bridesmaid reveal, and the room filled with joyful cheers as they saw their beautiful friend in her dress.
A First Look at Merchants Exchange
Before heading to the Crystal Tea Room, Susannah and Zack shared their first look at the historic Merchants Exchange Building. It was the kind of moment that reminds me why I love photographing weddings in Philadelphia. The couple exchanged private vows, just the two of them, surrounded by the elegant stone architecture and soft city light.
Afterward, their wedding party joined for portraits. The group looked incredible together, the bridesmaids in mismatched neutral tones and the groomsmen in sharp black tuxedos. We took advantage of several spots around the city for portraits before making our way to their Crystal Tea Room Philadelphia wedding. Each stop offered a unique glimpse of Philadelphia’s charm, from classic cobblestone streets to modern cityscapes.
Arriving at the Crystal Tea Room
Stepping into the Crystal Tea Room is like stepping back in time. This Philadelphia wedding venue, known for its 1920s-inspired grandeur, is both moody and romantic. Filled with soaring ceilings, ornate columns, and glittering chandeliers. It’s one of my favorite Philadelphia wedding venues to photograph, and it’s easy to see why Susannah fell in love with it. Even though she and Zack hadn’t planned on a ballroom-style wedding, the moment she saw the space, she knew it was the one.
Before guests arrived, the team transformed the space, styling it with draped entrances and lush floral installations that welcomed everyone into the ceremony. The lighting, the architecture, and the anticipation all came together perfectly.
A Romantic Ceremony at the Crystal Tea Room Philadelphia
Their Crystal Tea Room Philadelphia wedding ceremony inside the grand ballroom was breathtaking. Under the soft glow of the chandeliers, Susannah and Zack stood together as their mothers lit two candles, symbolizing their families’ love and support. Then, together, they used those flames to light one candle as a couple, a timeless moment that reflected the unity of their marriage.
Friends and family watched with full hearts as the two exchanged vows. When they were pronounced husband and wife, the room erupted in joy, a celebration that carried beautifully into the evening ahead.
Cocktails in the Atrium
Guests transitioned to cocktail hour in the Crystal Tea Room’s atrium, a space filled with natural light and a sophisticated, urban charm. Stations offered incredible options, including a seafood display set atop an ice sculpture carved with Susannah and Zack’s initials. One of my favorite details was the live sketch artist who created portraits of guests throughout the evening. It added such a fashionable, creative touch that perfectly suited the couple’s elegant vision.
Crystal Tea Room Philadelphia Wedding Reception
While guests enjoyed cocktails, the ballroom came alive, transformed for the reception. When I stepped back inside, the space glowed with candlelight and floral arrangements that brought Susannah and Zack’s romantic vision to life.
As the newlyweds made their entrance, their wedding party surrounded the dance floor. Cold sparklers illuminated their first dance, creating a showstopping moment. Heartfelt toasts followed, along with parent dances and cake cutting that officially kicked off the celebration.
From there, the dance floor came alive. The music, laughter, and energy made their Crystal Tea Room Philadelphia wedding feel both glamorous and personal.
As a Philadelphia wedding photographer, I am always honored to capture moments like these, where elegance meets emotion and every moment feels significant. The Crystal Tea Room is truly one of Philadelphia’s most iconic venues, and I can’t wait to return to photograph another unforgettable celebration within its walls.
Susannah and Zack later shared, “These are incredible, Emily – wow. We are floored! The best day.” Hearing that means everything. It was, without question, a day to remember.
If you’re planning your own Crystal Tea Room Philadelphia wedding day and still searching for a photographer, I’d love to be the one to capture this special day for you. Fill out my contact form here, and I’ll be in touch with more information!
Philadelphia Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Crystal Tea Room | Photographer: MLE Pictures | Planner: Courtney Space Events | Florist: Steele Orchid | Catering: Finley Catering | Wedding dress: The Ivory Concept | Beauty: Garro Glam | Music: BVT Live | Invitations: I Do Invitations
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