Top 12 Wedding Venues In Philadelphia

We’re very fortunate to have so many exquisite wedding venues in Philadelphia. And we must say that it’s an honor to capture such important moments for our clients at these beautiful and sometimes historic locations. A lot of hard work goes on behind the scenes that makes these venues so special to photograph. Our list is a bit slanted towards the eye-catching since, well…I’m a photographer and those are the kind of places that get our creative juices flowing!

So, without further ado and in no particular order, here are our top 12 wedding venues in Philadelphia:

Crystal Tea Room

A word from the venue:
“The Crystal Tea Room is situated in the heart of Philadelphia steps away from City Hall. Upon arrival, guests will directed to the atrium to enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Our glassed soaring atrium is an indoor conservatory featuring a fountain and greenery providing a year-round “outdoor atmosphere” with no threat of weather. Then, guests proceed into the heart of the Crystal Tea Room featuring carved columns and opulent crystal chandeliers making this ballroom timeless. Finley Catering’s executive chef and catering team have reached the acme of culinary brilliance, redefining the standard of cuisine. The grandeur of The Crystal Tea Room is sure to take your breath away while creating an unforgettable wedding venue for your once-in-a-lifetime event.”
What we love about this place:
The first spot for the top 12 wedding venues in Philadelphia belongs to the Crystal Tea Room. We love its layout and very ideal for a wedding reception. The atrium, bar, bridal suite, and dessert rooms all provide a perfect place outside the ballroom for guests to spend time during the night. And the ballroom makes for a beautiful ceremony location as well!
Our favorite spot at the venue for pictures:
The bar makes an awesome spot for photos as does the atrium. And we love the chandelier and giant wood columns in the ballroom.
the crystal tea room as one of the Top 12 Wedding Venues In Philadelphia santina_blog-65 tearoom3 tearoom1 groom and his mother dancing black and white shot jaime_adam_blog-65 long shot of the bride and groom on the altar for their center city philadelphia wedding long shot f the bride and groom's first dance Bridal party celebrating at the Crystal Tea Room

Glen Foerd Mansion

A word from the venue:
“Built in 1850 and expanded and refurbished throughout its time as a private residence, the Glen Foerd mansion is currently home to an array of historic domestic artifacts, American and European art, and contemporary art installations. Set amid eighteen acres of rare trees and flowering shrubs, the grounds include a formal rose garden, vineyard, and riverfront oaks that date back over 300 years. The Glen Foerd grounds comprise a public park, open from dawn to dusk”.
What we love about this place:
Whenever we’re here, we feel like we are stepping back in time. We love the elegance, the art, and the grounds that surround the mansion. There is no shortage of locations inside or out to create gorgeous images. And how cool is it that you get to have an entire mansion at your disposal for the day! Our favorite spots at the venue for pictures:
The Art Gallery is a pretty special place for photos but there are amazing nuggets all over this venue. During golden hour everything around this venue looks gorgeous.
Bride and groom exchanging vows at the Glen Foerd mansion the glen foerd mansion as one of the Top 12 Wedding Venues In Philadelphia Outside ceremony set up at the Glen Foerd Mansion glenfoerd14 glenfoerd15 glenfoerd20 Wedding table detail shot at the Glen Foerd mansion Bride extending her veil in beams of sunlight glenfoerd19 glenfoerd8 DSC_8371-Edit

The Westin Hotel

A word from the venue:
“Let the champagne flow! At Westin, we’re committed to bringing your vision of your perfect wedding day to life flawlessly. We take the time to understand your unique needs so that we can delight you with intuitive service, thoughtful touches, and enriching experiences, allowing you to enjoy each moment to the fullest. The Westin Philadelphia is where luxury meets sophistication in the heart of center city. Our stunning venue sets the stage for unforgettable Weddings and Events. Featuring sparkling chandeliers, traditional crown molding, and Italian marble flooring combined with warm inviting décor. The Westin Philadelphia is prepared to handle every aspect of your event, from Ceremony to After Party and everything in between.”
What we love about this place:
We love the architecture and detail in the walls and ceilings in the ballrooms. The rooms photograph beautifully!
Our favorite spot at the venue for pictures:
Rittenhouse Square and the neighborhood surrounding the Westin are very photogenic.
_RD30680 lauren_wedding_testimonial_images-11 Bride being escorted up the aisle lauren_wedding_testimonial_images-13 lauren_wedding_testimonial_images-12 PV8A4964 DSC_2222-Edit lauren_wedding_testimonial_images-16 Bride smiling during first dance at the Westin Hotel lauren_wedding_testimonial_images-15

Waterworks

A word from the venue:
“Its combination of gracious Neoclassical architecture on the outside and then-revolutionary technology within once drew visitors from around the world-including Charles Dickens, who praised its “pleasant design.”

Today, the Water Works provides rich contemporary luxury in its lavish interior spaces in one of the city’s most picturesque settings, with columned walkways, a vintage gazebo, the Art Museum perched dramatically above and Boathouse Row stretched out along the Schuylkill River just beyond.

The iconic views, classically elegant structures, and landscaped grounds and gardens all around make adding an outdoor ceremony to your reception a natural choice.”

What we love about this place:
Location, location, location!
Our favorite spot at the venue for pictures:
Lots of cool doors, columns, and gorgeous river views are everywhere.
Philadelphia wedding photographer bride and groom exiting reception at the Waterworks in Philadelphia romantic night shot at Waterworks in Philadelphia Bride entering ceremony at Waterworks in Philadelphia Bride and groom watch confetti rain down at Waterworks in Philadelphia Table detail shot at Water Works in Philadelphia Father looking at bride as he walks her down the aisle at Water Works Philadelphia Bride and groom holding hands during ceremony at Water Works in Philadelphia Bride and groom embracing at Water Works Philadelphia

The Ritz Carlton

A word from the venue:
“Set within a former bank building modeled after the Pantheon, The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia offers a grand setting for weddings and receptions. Newly refreshed venues include the Grand and Petite ballrooms; the former featuring marble columns and crystal chandeliers, the latter a domed ceiling with a view of City Hall. With the assistance of the hotel’s wedding experts, couples can design a celebration that expresses their personal tastes and traditions using event space, catering, flowers and entertainment.” What we love about this place:
Everyone knows this brand for a reason. The customer service is top-notch, the architecture of the hotel is stunning and City Hall is right next door. We love shooting anywhere inside or outside of this venue. Our favorite spots at the venue for pictures:
The hallway outside of the elevators is very photogenic as is the outside facade with its tall columns.

 

Groomsman toasting the groom at the Ritz Carlton in Philadelphia keira_blog-14 Groom drinking a martini at the Ritz Carlton Philadelphia Ritz Carlton Philadelphia Wedding|groom and groomsmen using luggage cart for photo Bride and groom in epic wedding photo embracing at the Ritz Carlton Philadelphia Detail shot of place card table at the Ritz Carlton Philadelphia Ritz Carlton Philadelphia Wedding|mother of the bride putting necklace on bride detail shot of centerpiece at the Ritz Carlton Philadelphia

Cairnwood Estate

A word from the venue:
“Reminiscent of a French chateau, Cairnwood’s distinguished architecture, flowering gardens, and expansive lawns provide a distinctive backdrop for a truly exceptional event. The estate provides a setting that departs from the ordinary with endless indoor and outdoor reception possibilities.” What we love about this place:
Technically not in Philadelphia but we adore this place and had to include it! We love all the different rooms this place provides. It’s so unique and has a ton of great character. Our favorite spot at the venue for pictures:
Cairnwood is one of the top 12 wedding venues with a bridal suite that has amazing light and ambiance. You can get some cool portraits in there.
Romantic image of bride and groom kissing in front of mansion Wedding dress hanging from ceiling at Cairnwood Estate Bridesmaid helping bride put her shoes on Groom shaving before wedding cairnwood15 cairnwood14 cairnwood13 Bride sitting alone by a window at Cairnwood Estate Detailed image of wedding reception menu with salad greens on plates Bride and groom on balcony of Cairnwood Estate mansion

Ballroom At The Ben

A word from the venue:
“Exquisite chandeliers, European ambiance, and turn-of-the-century elegance, make the newly renovated Ballroom at the Ben a truly perfect setting for life’s most important events. You and your guests will be directed to the mezzanine level, which overlooks the palatial Ballroom for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

During your event, you will experience this classic refurbished ballroom just as Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence did when they danced their way to an Academy Award in “The Silver Linings Playbook.” With culinary masterpieces to entice any palate, Finley Catering and the Ballroom at the Ben are simply the best!”

What we love about this place:
The two-story arched ballroom and the ornate detail in the ceilings of the lobby and ballroom.
Our favorite spot at the venue for pictures:
The lobby downstairs with its beautiful ceilings, columns, and a reflecting pool.
ashley_wedding_testimonial_images-11 Image of bride with hand on her hip Night shot of bride and groom embracing in front of water sarah_david_new_website_gallery-35 ashley_wedding_testimonial_images-14 Bride and groom holding hands during ceremony at the Ballroom at the Ben Romantic image of couple kissing at the Ballroom at the Ben Romantic night image of bride and groom on the terrace of the Ballroom at the Ben Image of wedding reception centerpiece at the Ballroom at the Ben

Tendenza

A word from the venue:
“As they enter, your guests will be awed by a three-level cocktail area. And then, they proceed into the urban-inspired ballroom, dazzled by an interior design that strikingly juxtaposes glass, stainless steel, reclaimed wood, and exposed brick walls with beamed ceilings.

Combining elegance and originality, Tendenza is the perfect place to celebrate the beginning of a bright future together.”

What we love about this place:
The décor at Tendenza reminds me of some of our favorite restaurants in NYC. Very stylish, chic and intimate. We don’t have a lot of modern/industrial venues in Philadelphia which is why we enjoy shooting here! Our favorite spots at the venue for pictures:
The courtyard outside of Tendenza and the front facade are great spots for photos. The bar is also a great background for images as well.
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The Loews Hotel

A word from the venue:
We believe the landmark Loews Philadelphia is as classic and flawless as a perfect diamond solitaire. So allow us to suggest it as the ideal choice for your wedding. Our Millennium and Regency Ballrooms are stunning and timeless choices that can host over 250 guests for a sit-down dinner.

Or, ascend to our 33rd floor and let our famed glass Terrace be the setting for your wedding in the clouds. There are so many ceremony and reception locations for you to choose from, and each is more romantic than the next.

What we love about this place:
We love working at the Loews! All the rooms have a great light if you’re getting ready there, it’s centrally located and close to many of Philly’s landmarks for your photos and the main ballroom is very spacious! Our favorite spots at the venue for pictures:
The 33rd floor, stairwell, and long hallways outside of the ballrooms.
long shot of bride and groom kissing jaime_adam_blog-21 wedding day, bride coming down the stairs to reveal her first look as groom is waiting at the bottom table centerpiece with red background at the Loews Hotel in Philadelphia silhouette of wedding ceremony at the Loews Hotel in Philadelphia bride and groom embrace at the Loews Hotel in Philadelphia bride and groom kissing after cutting cake at the Loews Hotel in Philadelphia arielle_blog-61 arielle_blog-72 detail image of wedding reception table decorated with flowers by Beautiful Blooms bride and groom first dance at the Loews Hotel in Philadelphia

The Downtown Club

From the venue:
“With tall windows that directly overlook Independence Hall and command sweeping views of Old City and the Delaware River beyond, the DownTown Club makes an unforgettable impression on every guest. This effect is even further enhanced by the inlaid marble floors, hand-carved moldings, rich mahogany paneling, and other examples of the Club’s Georgian Revival elegance. This rich blend of American history, subdued luxury, and Cescaphe’s singular flair all seamlessly combine to create an unforgettable wedding in the classic tradition.”
What we love about this place:
The Downtown Club is another Philadelphia venue that has a rich history that you can feel when you’re there. Amazing location, super close to several boutique hotels and landmarks. You can treat yourself and your guests to a wonderful day/evening and not have to leave a two-block radius. Our favorite spot at the venue for pictures:
The back room with its beautiful mahogany paneling.
Waiman + Ronnie-Downtown Club Wedding-42 danielle_ketubah2 Detail shot of wedding reception dinner table Ballroom of the Downtown Club in Philadelphia Bride and groom kissing at the Downtown Club Waiman + Ronnie-Downtown Club Wedding-31 downtownclub3 revised_allison_blog_images-15

Union Trust

A word from the venue:
“With grand arched windows overlooking the Historic District of Philadelphia, Union Trust will captivate the most discerning guests. This newly renovated facility has become one of Philadelphia’s chicest event locations for weddings, social gatherings, and corporate functions.

With its soaring sixty-five-foot illuminated engraved ceilings, architecturally accented walls, multiple private rooms, and a breathtaking wraparound mezzanine overlooking the whole site; Union Trust offers an exceptional blend of the old, regal Philadelphia but infused with a new vibrant pulse.

This building is an embodiment of rich Philadelphia history having once served as The Union Trust Company Bank, which was built in 1888. In Finley Catering’s constant pursuit of exquisite cuisines and top-notch professionalism, we feel that Union Trust is an ideal addition to make our center city endeavors a perfect trio.”

What we love about this place:
The architecture is spectacular and the mezzanine overlooking the ballroom provides outstanding vantage points. Our favorite spot at the venue for pictures:
The mezzanine is perfect for romantic end-of-the-night shots.
Bride and groom during ceremony at Union Trust Philadelphia bride walking down the stairs back shot with everyone downstairs Wide image of reception at Union Trust Philadelphia vanessa_blog-75 Room shot of Union Trust Philadelphia Bride and groom silhouette at Union Trust Philadelphia guests partying at Union Trust Philadelphia long shot of the reception's interior vanessa_blog-85 bride and groom in a bar

Cescaphe

A word from the venue:
“What was once an ornate movie palace from the golden age of cinema has been transformed by Cescaphe into one of the city’s most spectacular wedding destinations. Vaulted cathedral ceilings, chandeliers draped in pearls, antiqued brass hardware, classic columns, and a floor-to-ceiling bar create a sense of luxury in the grand style. This magnificent setting makes every moment of your wedding-from the reception to the final dance by candlelight-an experience to be forever held in your hearts.”
What we love about this place:
The last but not the least among the top 12 wedding venues in Philadelphia is the Cescaphe. The cathedral ceilings and magnificent bar have a definite WOW factor when you enter the room.
Our favorite spot at the venue for pictures:
The upstairs table overlooking the ballroom when the bride and groom are having dessert.
Groom lifting and twirling bride Wedding cake with purple background at Cescaphe Ballroom Candle centerpiece on table at wedding reception White flower centerpiece on table at wedding reception Wedding reception centerpiece with purple background at Cescaphe Ballroom cescaphe8 Bride and groom enter recption with hands raised in the air cescaphe6 cescaphe16 Bride and groom kissing at wedding reception Bride and groom toasting each other at Cescaphe Ballroom bride and groom kiss after their cescaphe ballroom wedding ceremony

Learn More: Philadelphia Wedding Venues.

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“To all the brides out there looking for your dream wedding day photographer…look no further! Ralph Deal was, hands down, one of the best decisions we made when we were planning our wedding!

We are so happy to look at all of the gorgeous moments Ralph was able to capture from our big day. I would highly recommend booking him not only for your wedding day, but for engagement photos, too.

It gave us the opportunity to spend time with Ralph and for him to get to know us as a couple. On a day as hectic as the BIG day, Ralph was a familiar and comforting person to be around. He was professional from beginning to end. His talent is evident in every single photo he took of us. Thank you, Ralph, for perfectly capturing our wedding day memories that will last us forever.”

-Katrina Misczak

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bridal party popping champagne at the Crystal Tea Room in Philadelphia