Some weddings are soft symphonies of subtlety, while others are vibrant operas of joy—and Marina & Jordan’s wedding was the latter in the most exquisite way. With an all-color palette, playful details, and deeply personal touches, their day at Cescaphe Water Works was a celebration of love, laughter, and living out loud.

At the heart of this spectacular design was the unmatched Shannon Wellington Weddings, whose ability to dream boldly and execute with elegance gave this wedding its unmistakable magic. Shannon didn’t just plan the day—she authored its atmosphere, weaving together Marina and Jordan’s personalities into a cohesive, celebratory narrative that unfolded with color, humor, and heart at every turn.

Green and Blue spring wedding invitational suite by Emily Wren Photography

Getting Ready at The Westin

In Marina’s clean and modern suite at The Westin, soft natural light spilled across every surface—an ideal setting to begin telling the story of the day. I styled a series of flat lays using her invitation suite, rings, and bridal accessories, delicately arranged among loose blooms from Elizabeth Margaret Events. These early images are always the perfect prologue, and with vibrant poppies, sweet peas, and anthurium in pastel and citrus hues, the color story came alive right from the start.

Marina gifted her bridal party matching Palazzo Stripe Pajamas—white and sky-blue striped sets that felt perfectly in step with the couple’s whimsical Italian-inspired aesthetic. As she slipped into her romantic Jenny Yoo gown—its sculptural bodice and cascading skirt a perfect reflection of her style—Marina looked strikingly elegant, embodying the very essence of modern bridal sophistication. With her hair swept into a polished chignon by Top Knots by Aimee and her luminous makeup by DevEsthetics, she was every bit the refined and radiant bride.

Philadelphia bride getting her spring wedding day makeup done

Philadelphia bride with her bridesmaids in matching pinstripe blue pajamas before her spring wedding day

Meanwhile, just a few doors down, Jordan was preparing for the day with his groomsmen. The atmosphere was lighthearted but deeply meaningful—Jordan’s smile said it all. Even recovering from an Achilles injury, he carried himself with the grace and humor that would define the rest of the day.

groom's getting ready details for spring wedding day in Philadelphia

Portraits at The Rodin and the Art Museum

Just weeks before the wedding, Jordan had torn his Achilles tendon. Remarkably, the wedding day was the very first time he was able to remove his medical boot for extended periods—just in time for portraits and the ceremony. Though he still needed a scooter to get around, he embraced it all with humor and grace, ready to celebrate without missing a beat.

He and Marina shared their first look in the serene courtyard of The Rodin Museum, surrounded by timeless sculptures and the fleeting beauty of magnolia trees in full bloom. Their soft pink blossoms framed the moment with poetic elegance—nature’s perfect timing for a spring wedding. As Marina approached, radiant in her sculptural gown, Jordan’s expression said everything: love, pride, and a touch of awe.

bride & groom's first look at Philadelphia's iconic the Rodin Museum by Emily Wren Photography

From there, we made our way to the Philadelphia Museum of Art for bridal party portraits, where the celebration took on a distinctly editorial tone. Each bridesmaid wore a different silk gown in sun-kissed shades—lavender, mint, buttery yellow, and powder blue—each paired with a monochrome bouquet that mirrored the dress perfectly. The effect was effortlessly modern and beautifully harmonious.

Their bouquets, designed by Elizabeth Margaret Events, were a playful dream: bold, sculptural arrangements filled with vibrant texture and personality. Because of the couple’s fashion-forward style and cool, creative energy, I leaned into a more editorial approach with posing—something I love to do when the vibe is right. Rather than following a formula, I always try to respond intuitively to the feel of the day, letting each wedding guide the creative direction. With Marina, Jordan, and their wedding party, that meant fun, modern, high-style moments that still felt entirely authentic.

With Jordan by her side—gliding joyfully on his scooter—they moved through portraits with a beautiful blend of grace and lightness. It was a joyful interlude in the heart of the city—modern, vibrant, and completely theirs.

Ceremony under the Grand Pavillion at Water Works

Marina and Jordan’s ceremony at the Grand Pavilion at Water Works was a joyful blend of creativity, heart, and vibrant color. Guests were greeted by a series of whimsical, interactive moments that set the tone for the celebration to come—each one thoughtfully designed under the direction of Shannon Wellington Weddings and brought to life by Vine & Oak Events.

One of the most memorable elements was a custom welcome board featuring painted portraits of each key player—the bride, groom, bridal party, and family—mounted on little rotating circles that flipped to reveal their names. Above it, a sign warned, “Caution: May Cause Excessive Spinning & Swooning,” and it did just that. It was playful, personal, and a delightful conversation starter.

Nearby, bright yellow signage read “Happy Tears Ahead,” paired with a red tissue box urging guests to “Cry Proudly.” And just before the ceremony began, pom-poms in sunset shades of pink, orange, and red were handed out for guests to wave in celebration.

Framing it all were breathtaking florals by Elizabeth Margaret Events—towering, sculptural pillars overflowing with sweet peas, ranunculus, and anthurium in a joyful palette. The scene was a living installation, full of movement, meaning, and modern romance.

It was a ceremony that perfectly reflected Marina and Jordan—thoughtful, stylish, and full of joy.

unique & colorful wedding welcome sign by Emily Wren Photography

Cocktail Hour & Reception at Water Works: A Celebration in Full Bloom

Marina and Jordan’s reception was a kaleidoscope of color, creativity, and charm—with just a touch of la dolce vita. Drawing inspiration from their Italian roots, the design subtly evoked a Tuscan getaway: Aperol spritzes and palomas as signature cocktails, striped linens reminiscent of sun-drenched villas, and whimsical nods like a sardine-printed pillow tucked into a lounge vignette. Even the escort wall’s theme—“Fly Away With Me”—hinted at a love story that felt both adventurous and grounded in tradition.

The entire celebration was imagined and expertly brought to life by Shannon Wellington Weddings, whose vision wove together playfulness and polish in the most unexpected and delightful ways. Vine & Oak Events continued their signage magic with cheeky moments like “You Can’t Buy Me Love… But You Can Buy Me an Espresso Martini,” and a vintage-style telephone guest book inviting loved ones to “Leave a Message After the Beep.” The couple’s custom espresso martini bar even featured edible foam art—with guests able to submit photos from their phones to be printed atop their drinks!

Inside the reception space, the room exploded with color. No two tables were alike: each one a unique composition of bold linens, patterned chargers, and sculptural floral arrangements by Elizabeth Margaret Events. From citrus-dotted centerpieces to delicate pastel blooms juxtaposed with bright tropicals, the effect was joyful and visually rich—an expression of the couple’s vibrant spirit.

In addition to the dance floor, guests could try their luck at poker and roulette tables—a fun nod to Jordan’s love of games and a great way to keep the energy high throughout the evening. Every detail felt intentional and exuberant, a perfect balance of elegance and play. It was a night that invited laughter, connection, and celebration at every turn—a true reflection of Marina and Jordan’s style and story.