Weddingbee Blog

After the first look, it was time for bridal-party photos.

There are many beautiful locations around Philadelphia to take photos—from the parks (Rittenhouse Square, Washington Square, LOVE Park) to the historic sites* (Old Christ Church, Elfreth’s Alley, Carpenter’s Hall) to the landmarks (30th Street Station, Art Museum, Boathouse Row). Between our engagement session, rehearsal dinner, and wedding day, many of these places were on our “list.”

However, there was one place that was a “must do” from the very beginning of our engagement—Broad Street and City Hall. So iconic, so “Philly”…even Mr. Turkey agreed it was the perfect spot for pictures!

In fact, with our original venue, we were thrilled with the opportunity to be right on Broad Street. Mr. Turkey and I made plans with Gabe to do bridal-party photos there before cocktails and then have just the two of us sneak out at the end of night with the lights of the city around us.

But as you recall, our story took a bit of a turn and we changed venues. No longer were we on Broad Street or anywhere close enough to pull off a nighttime shot. But we were able to find room in our schedule for the day to make a stop here for photos. And it was totally worth it!

All photos are by Philip Gabriel Photography.

Photos like this make me so happy we had a city wedding…U-Haul and all.

Now, one thing we didn’t consider about the location was the size of the divider. I mean, people in South Philly park their cars in the middle of Broad Street, so why shouldn’t we be able to fit?

Take 1—a tight squeeze

As you can see above, even with a medium-sized bridal party (there were 14 people total), some of our groomsmen were being brushed by side mirrors!

Laughing as the men almost get hit by cars

We did get a few photos with everyone looking the same way/not blocked, but it wasn’t easy.

Take this as a note, future Philly brides—you may struggle to fit everyone!! And being in such a public spot meant we had quite an audience during these photos. People on the street or in cars/buses/taxis did everything from yell to beep to wave at us. We kind of felt like celebrities.

Once we dismissed the bridal party to the safety of the trolley, we took some lovely city-centric couple shots on Broad. I’ll let the images do the talking.

Although some might not like the giant truck, we like how “real” it is.

Veil attacks Mr. Turkey

This picture makes me realize just how small that divider is—my dress is almost off the side!!

Classic (cheek-to-cheek-forehead) shot

Mr. Turkey had his work cut out for him in helping me with the dress/veil.

LOVE

The next photo is a favorite because, amidst random hooting and hollering…we actually saw someone we knew!

HI!!!!

Passengers in a car pulled up alongside us, yelling “nice day for a wedding,” and when we looked to say “thank you,” we did a double take. It was my cousin M and my uncle T! They were cutting it a little close to get ready, if you ask me, but you know men…

After our family sighting, we went back to the trolley to head to our next photo stop. It was time to hit another Philly landmark—can you guess which one?

Brother Turkey kind of looks like a Secret Service agent!

Was/is there a “must have” picture location for you? Anyone else almost get their bridal party run over in the name of photos?

*I don’t mention one of the most recognizable landmarks, Independence Hall, because there are restrictions on taking photos in front of the iconic building (since 9/11). Also, for all you Philadelphians/sports fans, yes, the title is a play on “Broad Street Bullies.”

Miss a Turkey recap? No worries…links below!

Recaps Commence with a Trailer Video

The Day Before the Day

We Rehearse!

Views at the Vesper (our rehearsal dinner)

Favorite Guest Photos

A Quiet Morning

Getting Lovely (with Law & Order)

How We Felt

The “Somethings”

The Time Has Come (for Mr. Turkey)

Gettin’ Spiffy

Becoming a Bride

Bridal Portraits (and Some Tips)

A Joyful First Look