Sayda and Michael had a civil wedding ceremony a while ago but they knew they wanted to have a religious ceremony as well. Michael being Jewish invited a rabbi to be a part of their wedding ceremony and Sayda being Catholic found a Catholic church that they got married in. It was gorgeous and historic st. Thomas Aquinas Church in Philadelphia where they got their religious blessing. And being Christian myself I appreciated the importance of this church but being an American and a person who loves action movies I extremely appreciated the fact that this church was one of the filming locations for the ‘Total Rocky‘ movie with Sylvester Stallone!!!! And I don’t think I would have found out this by myself but the priest told all of us so that made me even more impressed :). The date of the ceremony was appointed because Sayda’s parents were able to come visit United States from Peru and the whole family was gathered for such an important event. Both Sayda and Michael have arrived on time for the wedding ceremony and I thought it will be that rare wedding that will run according to the schedule….. well, I was mistaken. Sayda’s mom got stuck in Philadelphia Saturday traffic and that of course delayed everything. But despite lateness, there was still celebratory and festive spirit in the air! Sayda and Michael were so close to getting their blessing from the church!
Everyone was waiting with anticipation for the wedding ceremony to begin but we still enjoyed the pleasant wind coming through the doors as well as the company of a beautiful bridal party and ring bearer. Michael’s nephew was a ring bearer and he did perfect job at his tasks. The bridesmaids wore beautiful pink gowns and seriously looked like angels!
Once all important people arrived the wedding ceremony began! Sayda’s dad all the way from Peru now was walking his daughter down the isle in the gorgeous St. Thomas Aquinas Church.
The ceremony was beautiful and meaningful. Both the rabbi and the priest had amazing words to say to both educated and blessed everyone who was listening. The prayer of blessing was said. The kiss sealed the marriage and they were married! We went outside for a few bridal party portraits and family portraits.
Once we got a few formal portraits, Sayda, Michael and me headed into the Philadelphia downtown to get a shots with the Philadelphia City Hall. It was a quick 5 minute stop but we were able to grab a few good shots for them! For the rest of there Philadelphia City Hall photos check out their wedding reception blog post.
For Sayda and Michael’s wedding reception check out Cherry Hill Wedding Photographer :: Sayda+Michael Washington Crossing Inn Wedding Reception.
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All images are copyrighted to Yana Shellman – fun, sweet, energetic photographer serving as a South Jersey Wedding Photographer. She adores photography that shows natural and loving relationship of people. Clear instruction, genuine laughter, and long-lasting sweet memories is what you will get with Yana as your wedding photographer.
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If you have questions or would like Yana to record your special event, please drop Yana a note at yana@yanashellman.com or contact her through the contact form.