Sweetest, Self-officiated, Mini-wedding!
Or micro wedding? What are folks in Philly calling incredibly sweet, intimate weddings these days?
Well whatever it’s called, this ceremony was one of the most beautiful ones I’ve had the pleasure to witness. RJ and Michaela came to me a few months ahead about being their wedding photographer, but wanted to make sure I understood it wasn’t a typical “wedding” (music to my ears!)
The back patio of Southwark Restaurant, was the perfect setting, with simple flowers on the table and a plant-filled backdrop. A few close family members and friends gathered on this gorgeous, summer evening to surround Michaela and RJ with love as they exchanged vows. We started with a handful of casual portraits of the bride and groom, their families and friends. Then everyone took a seat to witness the ceremony.
In Philadelphia (and the rest of PA), thanks to the Quakers, a couple can self-officiate at their own wedding. As the wedding photographer, my job is to be an inconspicuous observer, and in this case to crawl around the table and plants trying to get my shots without disrupting the ceremony 😅 But I couldn’t help but tear up listening to this couple share how they felt about each other, their relationship, and their dreams for the future!
And once the ceremony was over, the restaurant staff served incredible food and drinks as everyone sat down for a celebratory dinner. Simply perfect!
Thank you, Michaela and RJ for inviting me to document your beautiful ceremony!
