Colonial Dames Society Wedding – Philadelphia – Katie & Matt

colonial dames society wedding portraits

I have never photographed at The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America for a wedding before, but I have to say it is a beautiful historic location in the city for smaller events. Katie Robinson from DFW Planning did all the planning, decor and floral arrangements. As always when I work with her the day went super smooth, and the couples always have a fantastic time.

The National Society of the Colonial Dames of America in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania maintains a historic Philadelphia property that has been hosting private events for generations. Founded in 1890 to preserve American colonial heritage, the Pennsylvania chapter offers one of the city’s most intimate wedding settings: a grand historic house with maintained grounds, period architecture, and rooms flooded with natural light from tall windows. With capacity kept to smaller gatherings, it draws couples who want something deeply personal and storied over a large hotel ballroom. The grounds also make a beautiful backdrop for portraits before the ceremony, with mature trees and manicured greenery that photograph beautifully in any season.

We started with Matt getting ready at the Colonial Dames Society and went around the grounds for some groom portraits on Black and White Fujifilm Acros 100 Film. Katie had all her preps at the top floor room which had such incredible natural light coming in from all the windows.

They planned on doing a first look and begin photographing together before the ceremony, but they did not intend for it to rain just at the moment. We improvised and found a private and quiet room there for them to meet together. I love the first looks with couples, but I always want it discreet and no cheesy setups or people staring at them.

Katie is a veterinarian, actually my second veterinarian. I photographed this year! My first was Emily & Brad. She brought her family dogs with her in the building for some portraits, and I am always more than happy to photograph pets since I have a huge soft spot for pooches. After their first look and pet portrait session with the family, we were off to Washington Square with the bridal party.

Ceremony & Reception: Colonial Dames Society
Florist & Wedding Planner: DFW Planning & Katikul Design
Hair & Markup: Bella Angel
DJ: 2LifeTalent – Isaac

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Washington Square Park bridal portraits

At Washington Square Park the sun was out and dried up all the rain. I love shooting in that park as we always get the coolest photobombs from random strangers. And today was no different with three gentlemen that hung out with the bridesmaids for a few photographs. The park sits adjacent to the iconic Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution, and the combination of old-growth trees, open lawns, and that quiet historic weight makes it one of the most underrated portrait spots in Center City. With Independence Hall just around the corner, Katie and Matt got a double dose of Philadelphia history in a single afternoon. Katie and Matt love Independence Hall, so we made sure to go to that area as part of their bridal session. We finished up with them and the family on the grounds of the lush Colonial Dames Society.

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Loved photobombing these guys! They are completely awesome strangers…

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Colonial Dames Society wedding reception

The party at night was just as fun as I thought it would be. They danced, and the family used every inch of the dance floor the entire night. We ended with a few photographs of Matt and his friends out at night enjoying a few cigars. I wish Katie & Matt the best and had an excellent time with them!

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Colonial Dames Society Wedding Vendor Team

This day ran beautifully from start to finish. Big thanks to everyone who made it happen:

  • Venue: National Society of the Colonial Dames of America, Philadelphia
  • Florist & Wedding Planner: Katie Robinson, DFW Planning / Katikul Design
  • Hair & Makeup: Bella Angel
  • DJ: 2LifeTalent / Isaac

Jordan photographs intimate historic venue weddings across Philadelphia and the surrounding region. For more venue ideas, see the 12 Best Philadelphia Wedding Venues guide.

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