Wedding Vendors

Venue: Franklin Institute
Event Planner: Porch and Pearls
Getting Ready: The Logan Hotel
Wedding Dress: Laura & Leigh Bridal
Suit: Suit Supply & The Black Tux
Band: Bachelor Boy's Band
Photographers: Diego and Liza Photography

Franklin Institute Wedding

I absolutely adore New Year’s Eve weddings! My first experience capturing such a vibrant celebration was at Horseshoe Valley in 2022 for Rosie and Shayne's wedding—it was spectacular. Fast-forward to another memorable evening, this time as a destination wedding in Philadelphia. It’s still a delightful mystery how Liz and Erik discovered my photography services all the way from Toronto, but I’m thrilled they did!

I made it to Philadelphia the day before their wedding and immediately went to scout the various locations. The beauty of destination weddings lies in their unpredictability and the fresh opportunities they present for unique photography. Having previously photographed weddings in diverse locales like Whistler and Kazakhstan, I was buzzing with excitement for this new Philly adventure.

Getting Ready at The Logan Hotel, Philadelphia

Liz’s wedding day began with an unforgettable morning at The Logan Hotel, right in the heart of downtown Philadelphia. Imagine waking up to find that you’ve been upgraded to the presidential suite—complete with a stunning grand piano. That’s exactly what happened! The elegant space was the perfect backdrop for capturing those intimate and joyful getting-ready moments.

As the morning unfolded, Liz and her bridal party laughed and toasted to the day ahead, their excitement evident in every smile and shared glance. The room was filled with the talented hands of Marian Braccia from Porch & Pearls, who worked her magic, ensuring Liz looked absolutely radiant. Thanks to Marian’s expert touch and the relaxed vibe in the suite, we had plenty of time to capture every shot that Liz had dreamed of—and even a few more creative ones that added a unique flair to the day.

From the joyful pop of champagne to the serene beauty of Liz admiring her wedding gown, each moment was a testament to the perfect start of an unforgettable day. And yes, that grand piano? It became more than just a luxurious prop; it added a touch of elegance and fun to Liz’s bridal portraits, giving us some truly stunning images that you'll want to linger over.
The Logan Hotel provided not just a space, but an experience—a beautiful beginning to a day that Liz and her loved ones will remember forever.

First Look and Portraits at the Rodin Museum

Following a joyful morning of getting ready, we made our way to the iconic Rodin Museum for Liz and her groom’s first look—a moment filled with anticipation and love. As Liz gracefully walked toward her groom, the timeless elegance of the museum provided a stunning backdrop, enhancing the magic of their first look.

Despite a forecast threatening rain all day, we were blessed with a perfectly timed break in the weather, allowing us to capture not just the couple’s portraits but also some incredible family and bridal party shots. The soft, overcast skies added a touch of romance to the setting, with the trees and classic architecture of the museum creating a dreamy, almost ethereal atmosphere.

Liz’s dress flowed elegantly as she and her groom shared some sweet and candid moments, highlighting the genuine connection they share (as seen in the third image). The museum’s grandeur and serene gardens provided endless opportunities for capturing timeless photos that the couple will cherish forever.

Once we wrapped up at the Rodin Museum, we headed over to the historic Philadelphia City Hall. Out front, we discovered an old-fashioned carousel that added a whimsical and unexpected element to the day’s photo session—proving that sometimes the best moments are the ones you didn’t plan for.

Portraits, Ceremony, and Reception at Franklin Institute

Photographing Liz and Erik's wedding at the Franklin Institute was a dream come true. The venue is truly a photographer's playground, offering a unique blend of science and art that’s nothing short of mesmerizing. We kicked off the day by exploring the mind-blowing Brain Exhibit, where Liz looked absolutely radiant. It was her favorite spot, and it's easy to see why—it provided an extraordinary backdrop that made her glow even more.

As we moved to the ceremony space, the magic of the Planetarium at the Franklin Institute unfolded before our eyes. The ceiling, adorned with twinkling stars and a breathtaking moon, created an ethereal atmosphere. It was clear why Liz and Erik chose this venue—it was like getting married under a blanket of stars. The lighting and ambiance made every moment feel as though it was sprinkled with stardust.

For the reception, Liz made a dazzling dress change, both stunning gowns were from Laura & Leigh Bridal. The night was electrified by the incredible Bachelor Boy's Band, who kept the energy high as the clock ticked down to 2023. The reception space, lit up with vibrant colors and dancing lights, was the perfect setting for their first dance, with sparks flying—literally!

A heartfelt thank you to Liz and Erik for letting me be part of this unforgettable day. Capturing your wedding was not just a job; it was an incredible experience that I’ll treasure forever. Here’s to love, laughter, and the start of your beautiful journey together!