I was so excited when Alina and Rob reached out about photography for their Philadelphia wedding. Alina and Rob were planning a traditional Catholic ceremony at a local church, and then a intimate reception at a local restaurant. Alina’s family is Russian, and it was so interesting to see their wedding traditions incorporated into the wedding day. Fun fact, Alina and Rob’s first kiss was shared at the altar, which was so special!

One thing Alina and Rob chose to do was choose to rent a venue (even though they weren’t having any of the official events there). They chose Cairnwood Estate in Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania, and used it as an in-between location for their bridal party and family. The bride and bridesmaids got ready in the bridal suite, and we were able to use their grounds for all the formal portraits. This made their day feel so seamless-having a “home base” for any traveling guests is so helpful, especially when you are planning to move from location to location.

The Cairnwood is a historical home, so a lot of the original furniture and decor was in the house (always my favorite). You’ll notice in pictures from the bridal suite, there are framed photos of past owners in their wedding gowns, which I thought was such a unique and intimate touch.

Alina & Rob’s family were so kind and welcoming, and they made the day so special and fun for not only Alina and Rob, but all of their guests. Alina had friends who sang them a beautiful song in Russian at the dinner, and Alina and Rob had rehearsed a choreographed first dance that was absolutely stunning. This was one of my favorite destination weddings and I was so glad that Halie got to come along and experience it with me! I can’t wait to go back to Philadelphia and shoot again at the Cairnwood!