Step into a world of unique charm and urban elegance with Tracy & Dan’s unforgettable wedding, beautifully captured at the iconic 23rd Street Armory in Philadelphia. This wasn’t just another wedding; it was a vibrant celebration that perfectly blended laid-back pop-up style with the grandeur of a historic venue. As a second shooter alongside the talented Elicia Bryan, I had the pleasure of witnessing and documenting this special day, and it’s an experience worth sharing.
The day began with preparations in separate, cozy locations – Tracy in a downtown Airbnb and Dan at their home, setting a relaxed and personal tone right from the start. The ceremony itself was a delightful pop-up affair in the charming Fitler Square. Imagine guests gathering amidst the bustle of a farmer’s market, adding a touch of local flavor and spontaneous joy to the pre-ceremony moments. This unconventional approach highlighted the couple’s personalities and their desire for a wedding that was both meaningful and fun.
Following their heartfelt vows, the celebration took a uniquely personal detour to the Schuylkill River Dog Park. This playful interlude, catering to Tracy’s love for dogs, offered a glimpse into their life and added an element of delightful spontaneity to the wedding day. The unseasonably warm April weather was perfectly complemented by a stop at Lil Pop Shop for refreshing popsicles – a sweet and quirky treat for everyone involved.
The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the reception at the 23rd Street Armory. This historic Philadelphia venue, known for its impressive architecture and vast space, was transformed into a breathtakingly romantic setting. The transformation from a potentially stark warehouse to a warm and inviting reception space was achieved through artful floral installations and the magical touch of string lights. As always, string lights proved to be an infallible choice, adding a layer of enchantment to the atmosphere. A delightful and trendy donut wall further enhanced the celebratory mood, offering a fun and visually appealing dessert option.
After an evening filled with heartfelt toasts, delicious dinner, and joyful dancing, the couple and I seized the golden hour for sunset portraits by the river. These moments provided a tranquil escape from the lively reception, allowing Tracy and Dan to connect and savor their first moments as a married couple against the beautiful Philadelphia skyline. It was a perfect ending to a day brimming with unique moments.
This remarkable 23rd Street Armory wedding, a testament to non-traditional celebrations and personal touches, was deservedly featured in Philadelphia Magazine. It was an honor to contribute to capturing Tracy & Dan’s vision, and it serves as a beautiful example of how the 23rd Street Armory can be the perfect backdrop for a truly unique and memorable wedding in Philadelphia. If you’re seeking a venue that combines historic grandeur with urban flexibility, the 23rd Street Armory should definitely be on your list. And for those considering a pop-up wedding – let this be your inspiration!
Vendor Team:
Second Shooter: Elicia Bryan
Florist: Wild Stems
Planning/Design: Arielle Fera Designs
Venue: 23rd Street Armory
Caterer: Day by Day Philly
Lounge Furniture: Maggpie Rentals
Dessert: Nutmeg Cake Design
Makeup: Shimmer & Spice
Hair: ONLO Beauty
DJ + Lighting: Synergetic Sound & Lighting
Photo Booth: Cut and Paste Photobooth
Doughnuts: Federal Donuts
Popsicles: Lil Pop Shop
