Allison + Eli's Retro Chic Philadelphia Wedding at Bartram's Garden

Allison + Eli’s retro chic Philadelphia wedding was a favorite for us this past year. We’ve known these two for years - Allison is a Nurse and Eli is a professional touring musician (check out Dopapod and Octave Cat) - so you can imagine the party they threw! Those are definitely some of my favorite images from their day.

We started out at the historic Deacon Hotel which is located in an old church right in the heart of Philadelphia. Their entire crew was staying there and everyone got ready together. We loved capturing their colorful details. The jewel toned palette for the day shined! We especially the mix and match bridesmaid’s dresses. The colors were absolute perfection! Paired with their bright boho florals and 70’s inspired design elements (everything from the signage, to the sparkly disco shrooms on their card table, peace signs, and the gorgeous monochromatic rainbow display for table cards (obsessed!!).

After wedding prep was finished, we headed to Bartram’s Garden for their first look, ceremony, and reception. Cue ALL the live music, rowdy pups coming down the aisle, hilarious toasts, and dance floor shenanigans with gramps.

Bartram's Garden is such a unique and beautiful venue for a wedding. The garden was founded by John Bartram, an American botanist, horticulturist, and naturalist, in the mid-18th century and is considered to be one of the oldest surviving botanical gardens in the United States. Located in Lenapehoking, the homeland of the Lenape people, and surrounded by 45 acres of natural beauty, including meadows, woods, and wetlands, it is home to a diverse collection of plants, trees, and wildlife. It’s peaceful and serene atmosphere just miles from city center is perfect for events, afternoon strolls, day dates, and nature lovers.

Bartram's Garden also offers several indoor and outdoor spaces that can be used for weddings. The garden's historic buildings, including the Bartram House and the Garden House, are charming and elegant spaces for intimate ceremonies, while the spacious meadows and lawns are ideal for outdoor events like this early fall wedding we did for Allison + Eli!

To read a little more about the history of this incredible Philly gem, scroll to the end of the gallery!

About Bartram’s Garden

Bartram's Garden is a historic botanical garden in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that was founded by John Bartram, an American botanist, horticulturist, and naturalist, in the mid-18th century. Bartram's Garden is considered to be one of the oldest surviving botanical gardens in the United States, and it is a National Historic Landmark.

John Bartram established the garden in 1728 as a place to cultivate and study the plants and trees of North America. Over the years, he expanded the garden to include a variety of species from around the world, and he became known as one of the foremost botanists of his time. He also served as a mentor to many other botanists, including Benjamin Franklin, who was a close friend and frequent visitor to the garden.

In addition to its historical significance, Bartram's Garden is also notable for its beauty and natural setting. The garden is located on the banks of the Schuylkill River and covers over 45 acres, making it one of the largest urban parks in Philadelphia. The garden features a variety of habitats, including meadows, woods, and wetlands, and is home to a diverse collection of plants, trees, and wildlife.

Today, Bartram's Garden is open to the public and serves as a living museum of botanical history and horticulture. The garden offers a range of educational programs and events, including tours, workshops, and festivals, and it is a popular destination for visitors of all ages who are interested in learning about the natural world and the history of American botany. Whether you're a gardener, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Bartram's Garden is well worth a visit.

Vendors

Coordination: @lovehausevents

Design + Day-of Goods: @sincerelybynicole

Stationery: @mintedweddings

Venue: @bartramsgarden

Catering: @jh_weddings

Photography: @amandamacchiaphoto

Videography: @wellspunweddings

Florals: @biagiosflorist

Lighting: @mike_jaws

Sound: @soundguysoifer

Ceremony Music: @mr.haziza @lyledivinsky

Cocktail Music: @rossbellenoit

Reception Entertainment: @westendblend

Reception Bartenders: @swigevents

Transportation: @metrophl

Hair: @featherkissedhair

Makeup: @houseofvenusbeauty @domo_speca

Specialty Rentals: @hollyjean.studios

Accommodations/Hotel: @thedeaconphl @cambriaphiladelphia

After party catering: @milestable

After party bartenders: @pjbartending

Bride Attire: @madison_james

Groom Attire: @indochino