This unique wedding at The Excelsior for Kelsey and Jerry was featured in Philadelphia Magazine last week. I couldn’t be more thrilled to share it with you here. Their day was the most beautiful mix of industrial and modern architecture complimented by romantic garden details.

Kelsey designed every detail of the wedding and decor, including a beautiful custom seating chart she built with her Maid of Honor! She did a beautiful job bringing together so many thoughtful and gorgeous design elements for the perfect wedding day that was uniquely theirs.

From the colorful array of bridesmaids’ dresses to the tapered candles on each table, she really thought of everything. Kelsey and Jerry even gifted each other beautiful custom albums before the ceremony. One of my favorite details of the day was a private moment Jerry and Kelsey shared just before the ceremony.

A First Look Alternative

They knew they wanted to keep with the tradition of not seeing each other before their ceremony but wanted a way to have a moment together. The two met outside their respective getting-ready locations for a “First Touch” instead.

Without sneaking a glance, the two found each other’s hands and shared a few sweet words in private before walking down the aisle. I loved this unique way of sharing a special, intimate moment before all the day’s festivities. It was such a tender thing to witness. I’m so glad they were able to prioritize this moment together.

While they opted to skip the first look, Kelsey did have a first look with her bridesmaids, and it was so cute! Not to be outdone, the guys had a bit of their own fun. I love that there was so much playfulness throughout their day.

The Creative Team

Photographer: Hope Helmuth Photography | Venue: Excelsior Lancaster | Day-Of Coordinator: Danielle Soucier-Ernst of Your Sweetest Day Events | Florals: Sandra Porterfield Floral Design | Catering: Signature Catering on King | Bride’s Gown: Bégum Bridal Design House from The Wedding Factor | Veil: Malis-Henderson | Hairpiece: Ulyana Aster | Bridesmaids’ Attire: Revelry, Azazie, Lulus and David’s Bridal | Hair: Tina Liddick of MKUP The Beauty Studio | Makeup: Maggie King of MKUP The Beauty Studio | Groom’s Attire: Central PA Tuxedo | Entertainment: 3 West Productions | Desserts: Bistro Barberet & Bakery | Invitations: Minted | Videography: Sage Design & Co. | Celebrant: Stephanie Gundy | Alcohol Coordinator: Traveling Tap | Rings: Brent Miller Jewelers, Mars Fine Jewelry & Benchmark | Custom Steel Planters: Michaud Iron & Wood Design

Hope Helmuth is a Luxury, Destination wedding photographer based in Bucks County, PA & NYC. Serving modern couples across the east coast, Hope specializes in timeless, candid, and romantic wedding imagery. For more information about the experience or to book your destination wedding, you can find more information here.