This Minimalist Philly Wedding Proves That Simple Is Chic
Rasheeda’s special day was captured by Black, White and Raw Photography. Her partner, William, brought his unique perspective to the celebration as an electrical engineer. The couple exchanged vows at The Philadelphia Wedding Chapel on April 6, 2018. With a budget of $1050 covering venue, cake, and officiant costs, Rasheeda and William’s love story unfolded in a charming and intimate setting.
To learn more about keeping wedding expenses in check, discover how a cake and punch reception can help trim the fat.
Our offbeat wedding at a glance:
We opted for an unconventional approach to our wedding celebration, choosing a champagne and cake reception immediately following the ceremony in the same Philadelphia Wedding Chapel. The decorated NY-style loft space provided a unique backdrop for our 90-minute event, which was attended by just 26 people. We took matters into our own hands when it came to music, hiring musicians to play live during the reception.
This old-school approach to wedding celebrations is reminiscent of times past, when punch and champagne receptions were the norm. Our grandparents would have recognized this style of celebration, often held in homes or churches. As we planned our special day, we drew inspiration from yesteryear’s traditions. Simple gold bands and classic solitaire engagement rings were our choices. In fact, many aspects of our wedding could be described as retro – a nod to the ways things used to be done.
With our short 90-minute ceremony out of the way, we had plenty of time to squeeze in some romantic dinner plans at Butcher & Singer Restaurant. We made the most of it, capturing memories with photos taken at our favorite coffee shop, Nook, and scenic spots around Rittenhouse Square and Center City Philadelphia.
Tell us about the ceremony:
In a unique twist on traditional wedding vows, our ceremony began at the altar where William and I exchanged our promises instead of the more conventional approach of walking up the aisle together. As we spoke our vows, I took the opportunity to mingle with our loved ones in attendance before making my way to the front. The absence of my father, who had passed away, left a void that was difficult for me to fill. Walking down the aisle with anyone else felt unnatural and impersonal.
If I had to do it differently, I would have wanted my dad by my side, but life had other plans.
What was your most important lesson learned?
As I look back, I’ve come to realize the importance of staying true to what brings me joy. In my case, it meant embracing an intimate and understated approach to my wedding. With a large family background, I didn’t feel pressured to have a grand or extravagant celebration. Instead, my husband-to-be and I made the conscious decision to keep things simple and focused on our relationship.
We chose to surround ourselves with only those who truly mattered, rather than feeling obligated to include a large bridal party or elaborate guest list. This allowed us to focus on what really mattered – our love for each other. The result was a beautiful, understated wedding that felt authentic and stress-free. In fact, my dress, which cost just $100, looked more elegant than I had anticipated, simply because it wasn’t overshadowed by over-the-top decorations or expensive attire.
My happiness on that day came from knowing that our love was the real focal point, not the production of a grand wedding. By prioritizing intimacy and simplicity, we created a truly special and memorable experience that felt like a true celebration of our union.
Vendors
When it comes to capturing memories of a special day, the right combination of elements can make all the difference. In this case, the union of photography, makeup, venue, and dinner came together seamlessly to create an unforgettable experience. The photographer’s keen eye for detail brought forth stunning black, white, and raw images that told the story of love and commitment. Meanwhile, Ira Anthony’s expertise in makeup added a touch of glamour to the proceedings.
The Philadelphia Wedding Chapel provided a charming backdrop for the nuptials, while Butcher and Singer served up a delectable dinner that left everyone satisfied.
