There’s something truly special about photographing a wedding at The Bellevue Hotel, a place so steeped in history and architectural grandeur. The Grand Belle, Cescaphe’s stunning new venue, is part of a restoration that has brought this historic Philadelphia landmark back to its original splendor. Designed in the French Renaissance style by G.W. & W.D. Hewitt, the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel first opened its doors in 1904. At the time, it was described as the most luxurious hotel in the nation and perhaps the most spectacular in the world.

From its delicate Thomas Edison-designed light fixtures to Venetian stained glass windows by Alfred Godwin and the iconic marble and wrought-iron elliptical staircase, every detail speaks to an era of unmatched elegance. With its recent renovation, The Grand Belle ballroom now combines historic beauty with modern luxury, creating the perfect space for unforgettable celebrations. As a wedding photographer, I was beyond excited to document my first wedding at this iconic venue, and it did not disappoint.

This wedding was a beautiful reflection of timeless sophistication, Sicilian and Irish traditions, and heartfelt moments, all set within the grandeur of The Grand Belle and the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.

black and white wedding invitational suite by Emily Wren Photography

Getting Ready: A Bridal Look Steeped in Tradition

The day began in a lux Bellevue suite high above the city, where the bride was surrounded by her closest family and friends. Her bridal look was a seamless blend of elegance and sentimentality. She wore a stunning lace gown that exuded timeless sophistication, but it was her veil that truly stole the show. This long cathedral veil belonged to her mother, a cherished family heirloom that carried so much meaning.

The bride, who is Sicilian, wanted to honor her heritage in every detail of the day. Wearing her mother’s veil was not only a nod to her roots but also a testament to her close-knit family and the traditions that mean so much to them.

Philadelphia bride getting her wedding day makeup done by Emily Wren Photography

A Heartfelt First Touch at XIX

Before the ceremony, the couple shared a deeply emotional first touch in the breathtaking XIX ballroom on the 19th floor of The Bellevue Hotel. Positioned back to back in front of the iconic floor-to-ceiling crescent windows, they held hands without seeing each other, letting the moment fill with anticipation and love. Soft natural light streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow as the held hands amidst the excitement of the day.

bride & groom's first touch at Bellevue Hotel by Emily Wren Photography

A Ceremony of Grandeur at the Cathedral Basilica

The ceremony was held at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, a Philadelphia landmark as grand and timeless as The Bellevue itself. The bride’s entrance was breathtaking as she made her way down the long aisle beneath the cathedral’s soaring ceilings, with her mother’s lace veil trailing gracefully behind her.

The ceremony was a blend of tradition and intimacy, filled with heartfelt readings and moments of reflection. As they shared their first kiss as husband and wife, the joyous applause of their family and friends filled the cathedral, marking the beginning of their life together.

Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul winter wedding details by Emily Wren Photography

XIX Ballroom for Sunset Portraits

What began as a chilly December day led to a change in plans for outdoor portraits at the Rodin Museum. Thanks to Cescaphe’s incredible support, we had the opportunity to use the newly renovated XIX Ballroom on the 19th floor of The Bellevue Hotel. This exquisite space, with its intricate white-painted molding and floor-to-ceiling crescent windows, felt like the perfect alternative.

The couple’s portraits began indoors, where the elegant details of the space added a sense of timeless sophistication. One highlight was the striking Pearl Room, featuring a captivating hanging pearl installation that brought a modern, whimsical element to the bridal party and couple portraits.

At sunset, we stepped out onto the wrought-iron balcony with the couple, where the panoramic views of Philadelphia provided a breathtaking backdrop. The golden light of the setting sun enveloped them, catching the delicate lace of Phyllis’s gown and her floating veil, while Tom’s classic tuxedo added a timeless touch.

Having access to these beautifully restored spaces made the moment feel all the more special, offering a perfect blend of history, elegance, and romance for their unforgettable portraits.

bride and groom rooftop balcony portrait in Philadelphia by Emily Wren Photography

A Stunning Reception at The Grand Belle at Bellevue Hotel

The reception at The Grand Belle was nothing short of magical. As a photographer, I was in awe of how Cescaphe’s renovation restored the ballroom’s original grandeur while modernizing it with a clean white palette and brand-new oak hardwood floors. The towering ceilings, sparkling chandeliers, and intricate detailing was the perfect backdrop for every frame!

I loved how Phyllis and Tom’s striking black-and-white theme was thoughtfully interwoven throughout the day—it brought a bold, modern touch to the ballroom’s timeless elegance. The tables were draped in black linens, creating a dramatic contrast with the delicate gold-rimmed glassware and clear chargers. Tall, sleek vases filled with white calla lilies added a refined and natural beauty that perfectly complemented the overall design.

Capturing their grand entrance was such a joy. The confetti shower and the couple’s radiant smiles filled the room with energy and excitement. Their first dance was another favorite moment of mine—performed under the canopy of cascading lights, a new and permanent feature of The Grand Belle, it felt cinematic and intimate all at once.

Photographing this wedding at The Grand Belle was an experience I will never forget. From the historic elegance of The Bellevue Hotel to the couple’s heartfelt traditions and stunning details, every moment was a testament to their love story. The Bellevue’s rich history and French Renaissance architecture added so much depth and beauty to the day, creating the perfect setting for a celebration that felt both timeless and personal.