- Mar 7, 2016

Happily Ever After // Ann Marie + Sean

When we think back on this wedding, the first thing that comes to mind is the overwhelming feeling of love, devotion and pure joy in the air! You could practically reach out and grab the excitement! We could see immediately, and so clearly, that Ann Marie and Sean share a love that so many aspire to achieve… a true love to treasure.

Sean knew exactly where he wanted to propose to Ann Marie. She loves Philadelphia and its historic architecture, especially the design of City Hall. He had a custom ring made and arranged for a photographer friend to hide nearby to capture the moment. Sean suggested to Ann Marie that they sightsee around the city as they were headed there for dinner (with his company, so she thought), but had arrived early. His plan was to lead her to City Hall where he would pop the question. Well, he received a call from his friend moments before the proposal, letting him know the City Hall location was under construction! A swift change in plans was needed, and since they parked near Love Park, this was a perfectly fitting spot for a proposal. Sean asked Ann Marie to be his bride under the LOVE statue, and of course, she said ‘yes’!

Flash forward to a delightful fall Saturday morning and their highly anticipated wedding day. Ann Marie and her bridal party got dressed and ready for the big day, with first, their flawless makeup applied by Natasia Kocher, at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown. The bridesmaids paused for photos with the bride in their lovely matching floral robes before changing into beautiful, flowing light dusty rose gowns. Their classic white bouquets by Carl Alan Floral Designs were simply impeccable.

Ann Marie floored everyone in her gorgeous custom-made wedding gown. It had a perfect ball gown silhouette, delicate lace-up design and featured dazzling rhinestone appliqués on the dress’ bodice, straps and cap sleeves. It was an exquisite design and she looked absolutely amazing! Her long hair was beautifully styled in an updo thanks to Alyssa DeLio and was accessorized with a sparkling headband. Her look was altogether regal and classic. Stunning!

Meanwhile, Sean and his groomsmen were preparing for the day in a nearby room at the hotel. They all looked very handsome in their matching classic black tuxedos. And Sean’s monogrammed sleeve was an excellent touch. Later, all would be returning to the same hotel for the fantastic reception to celebrate late into the evening.

But it was now time to head to the church for the wedding ceremony. Ann Marie and Sean’s ceremony took place at the iconic Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Philadelphia. Ann Marie arrived at the church like a royal princess in a luxurious Rolls-Royce. As she entered into the church’s nave, we loved watching Sean catch his first glimpse of his bride. It was also so wonderful for them to have Sean’s uncle officiate their ceremony. Bishop Michael Fitzgerald spoke of married love being special and being a love that will last forever. It’s a love that will be patient, kind, endure and never fail.

After the ceremony concluded, the new Mr. and Mrs. took some time for photos and additional video throughout the city. We visited Logan Square, the Museum of Art and several other city favorites… and were sure to stop by City Hall of course! Philip Gabriel Photography captured incredible photos here and all through this special day’s events. We want to thank them for sending some photos to us as well! (Check out four at the end of this post!)

We then headed back to Philadelphia Marriott Downtown for their grand reception. Ann Marie and Sean made their entrance and were greeted by cheers from their friends and family. Their first dance together as a married couple was so beautifully choreographed, it looked like they were dancing on air! The Rich Posmontier Ensemble took the stage that evening and kept the guests out on that dance floor! We were most thrilled when Sean himself got up on stage with guitar in hand to belt out some rock classics! And everyone was moved when he sang the love song he wrote just for Ann Marie.

The wedding day materialized without a hitch and was wonderfully coordinated by Truly You Events. Perhaps what we remember most from the day is the lovely speeches and toasts we were treated to during the reception. Everyone could see that not only were they beautifully written, they were also so heartfelt and genuine. We’d like to echo the sentiments of Sean’s brother in wishing them a “happily ever after”. Congratulations, Ann Marie and Sean!