Although photographers are in the midst of what we call the “down season,” J&J Studios is still capturing magical photos of our clients. As a matter of fact, we recently photographed one of our most outstanding sessions to date, which was a Loews Philadelphia wedding. We cannot wait to tell you more about this amazing day, show you the breathtaking photos, and share with you details about the couple and their venue selection.

The Start of the Loews Philadelphia Wedding: Getting Ready in the Hotel Suite

The bride began her day by getting ready in her hotel suite at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel. As stressful as this may seem, Carilyn seemed to be handling it well while also having fun chatting with her family and friends. This part of the day is one where the anticipation is at an all time high. The bride must get her hair and makeup done as well as put on her dress for the big day. Luckily, Carilyn had some amazing friends to help her with all of these tasks. Everyone shared memories, laughs, and words of advice for the bride as she was about to take a new step in life with her husband-to-be.

Final Moments before the Bride and Groom Say “I Do” to Their New Life Together

The bride was all ready, and the groom was looking snazzy for his special day. The two could not wait to see each other and stand before their loved ones to say “I do.” While they were waiting, we asked them about their experience with wedding planning. Both said they knew that they wanted to get married before 2021 ended, so planning a wedding in less than 12 months during a pandemic was extremely stressful. Since they were having a New Years Eve wedding, they wanted everything to be classy.

The couple had never been to a New Years Eve wedding, so they felt that there were no expectations and they could do whatever they wanted, which is always exciting. Their advice to other couples is to be sure to hire a wedding coordinator. By doing so, you will make things easier on yourself while juggling work, family, and other life obligations. Carilyn and Anthony (Tony) are so thankful for their wedding coordinator, as they helped ensure that everything ran smoothly and efficiently.

Carilyn and Tony’s First Look

The first look is when couples see each other for the first time on their wedding day. This moment is usually a private moment between the couple. A lot of times they will have the photographer capture their authentic reactions, so that they can save and cherish them forever. One of J&J Studios’ favorite moments to document at weddings are the first looks. They usually turn out to be fantastic photographs that we enjoy giving back to the couples. The emotions are usually raw and intimate. You may have to get ready earlier to fit a first look into your big day, but we believe it will be worth it in the end and you will be glad that you did it.

First looks have remained a hot trend for several decades now. Therefore, our crew believes you should take the time to decide if you would like to do a first look or wait until the altar to see each other. Either way, we know the first time you see each other will be terrific! Check out an article on Brides for more information about first looks by clicking here.

About the Couple: Carilyn and Tony

Tony and Carilyn were a joy to photograph! From doing their engagement session to documenting their big day, we felt like we had known this couple for a long time. They were always laughing, joking, and smiling. In fact, we could immediately feel the love that these two share the first day that we met them.

For those who are interested in knowing more about the couple, we have all the details for you. Tony and Carilyn first met in June 2015 through a mutual friend at Center City Sips. The two exchanged phone numbers and decided to go on a first date, which ended up being a disaster. However, they both decided to be patient and give it another chance. Little did they know, they would never go on a first date again!

The Proposal

Fast forward to the very beginning of 2021, the couple now were living in Southern New Jersey and went for a hike to get some fresh air during the pandemic. Once they made it to the top of the trail, the view of Philadelphia’s skyline was mesmerizing. Tony’s plan was to propose to Carilyn at that location, but it did not go as planned because two other hikers were standing in the way and were not leaving anytime soon. So, Tony hurried and thought of something different, which was to walk 500 more feet to a large clearing that overlooked a gorge.

While Carilyn was enjoying the view, he got down on one knee to pop the question. However, instead of Carilyn turning around, she kept hiking. This resulted in Tony going after her and telling her to turn around. Finally, she was able to see what Tony had up his sleeve the entire time, and it ended up being one of the best days of their lives.

The Loews Philadelphia Wedding

Carilyn and Tony met in Philly, lived in Philly before the pandemic, and have always had a strong love for Philly. Therefore, they knew that they both wanted to celebrate their wedding in the middle of the City of Brotherly Love. After researching a few different venues for the big day, the couple ultimately went with the Regency Ballroom at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel. The reason that they chose this venue is because they wanted a venue that had hotel rooms, held events, and was super classy. In addition, the location was perfect and the staff were extremely nice, friendly, and helpful.

The couple highly recommends choosing the Loews Philadelphia Hotel as your wedding venue, as they could not have been more satisfied with their decision. It is located at 1200 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107. For more information about weddings at this location, visit their website by clicking here.

The Reception at the Loews Philadelphia Wedding

After the couple said their vows and sealed them with a kiss, everyone clapped and cheered. They all made their way to a different area for the reception. The reception was beautiful to say the least. Carilyn and Tony had their first dance while everyone watched in awe. Several people gave speeches and toasts which led to the couple laughing so hard that they were in tears.

It was obvious that every single person was having a good time and loved the couple wholeheartedly. While our team was looking around the room, we could feel the support and happiness that this large group of people share. It was a great way to spend our New Years Eve, and we could tell that the couple was impressed with how everything turned out.

Vendors Used at the Loews Philadelphia Wedding

Tony and Carilyn mentioned that they would like to thank each of their vendors and give a shout out for the amazing work that they put forth to make the wedding of their dreams come true. Below, you will see a list of the vendors. If there is anything that you would like to inquire about, click on the vendor’s name and you will be redirected to their website.

Accommodations: Loews Philadelphia Hotel

Wedding Planner: Akua Darka at Phuliffects Events

Hair: Angela Spano Reese

Make Up: Aleksandra Ambrozy

Floral Designer: Leigh Florist

Wedding Dress: Pronovias & Fashion Stitch

Caterer: Loews Philadelphia Hotel

Cake Designer: Classic Cake

Invitations: Minted

Tuxedo: Custom/ Tailer Made at Indochino

Officiant: Bride’s Aunt

Rings: Steven Singer

Other Jewelry: Custom Necklace by Joseph Jacob Jewelers

DJ: DJ Kevin Compton of Silver Sound

Photography/ Videography: J&J Studios LLC

Book J&J Studios for Your Upcoming Wedding Today!

As a professional Philadelphia wedding photography company, J&J Studios is always willing and ready to document your wedding day. If you are recently engaged and looking for a Philly wedding photographer, you have come to the right place. Our team guarantees that you will receive incredible photos that you will be 100 percent satisfied with. These are your keepsakes from one of the best days of your lives, so we understand that choosing a photographer is not an easy task. Therefore, we invite you to check out our wedding portfolio by clicking here to see more of our photos as well as help you decide.

If you would like to move forward with the process, please fill out our contact form, and a member of our staff will be in touch with you as quickly as possible. In the meantime, take a look at Carilyn and Tony’s past engagement session with us by clicking here. We always recommend getting engagement photos taken before your big day, as it is a big milestone of your relationship. The photos can also be used for invitations and wedding decorations. Thank you for your interest and consideration. The J&J Studios’ crew looks forward to meeting you, getting to know you, and photographing your special day!