A storybook wedding in black and white at the philadelphia library
Book-lovers beware, after you see this black-tie library wedding, you won't be able to think of anything else! From the book-lined walls full of antiques and masterworks to their custom leather-bound book decor and live poetry escort cards, this couple took their literary love affair to the next level. Keep reading to see how Pronto Print House helped them pull off this extravagant storybook wedding and keep scrolling to see even more of these moody photos by Rachel Rosenstein.
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a black-and-white theme
Starting with their custom invitations, the couple decided to put down their love story in black and white- literally. We love how much this neutral palette pops from these luscious black and white details to the crisp contrast of white tablecloths and black napkins, each accented with touches of gold.
a well-read venue
With a love story like Ciarra and James, a romantic library wedding was the ONLY option for their enchanting celebration. The couple have been best friends their entire lives and as they got older, their love blossomed. The atmosphere of their wedding was warm and inviting, with a sense of history within the walls of the Free Library of Philadelphia.
black-tie fashion
For their library wedding, Ciarra and James decided to go in on a black-tie dress code. Ciarra wore a stunning lace and tulle ballgown with an open back and princess sleeves fit for a royal wedding. James kept it classic with a black tuxedo for the ceremony and switched into a white dinner jacket for the reception. This may be the first time we've featured a groom with more outfits than the bride AND WE'RE ALL ABOUT IT!
a majestic staircase ceremony
The ceremony took place in the grand hallway, with guests seated among the marble pillars with the majestic staircase illuminated by candlelight and fresh florals by Mullica Hill Floral. The bride and her father had a special entrance down the grand staircase with sweeping archways of the library to the angelic sounds of a string quartet.
the reception vibe: booktok goes wedding
Immediately after the ceremony, guests were whisked upstairs to the cocktail hour. The walls were adorned with books overlooking the ceremony space- towering bookshelves with leather-bound classics and rare manuscripts. After exchanging their vows, Ciarra and James were able to take a few private moments in a reading nook, just the two of them.
The reception took place on the rooftop of the library. Upon entry on the roof, the guests were greeted by a poet who was offering live type-writer poetry with the seating chart. The guests interacted with the poet throughout the entire evening.
The decor was a blend of vintage, elegant, and romantic elements with a color palette of rich browns, soft greens, and creamy whites. We incorporated book-inspired elements, such as bookmarks, custom book menus, vintage leather-bound books, and more. The views were immaculate as the reception overlooked the sights and sounds of Philadelphia.
- Event Planning & Design: Pronto Print House
- Flowers: Mullica Hill Floral
- Wedding Photographers: Rachel Rosenstein
- Cakes & Catering: Brulee Catering
- Dress & Apparel: Berta
- Accessories & Lingerie: Two Sisters NJ