Jen and Jon’s love story began at the University of Delaware in 2009, where Jen was starting her grad school journey and Jon was a senior in undergrad, both studying athletic training/sports medicine. Their paths crossed during the summer of 2010 when they worked together as athletic trainers at UD, laying the foundation for a lasting connection.
After graduation, their lives took separate paths as Jon moved to Southern California for PT school at USC, and Jen pursued OT school at the University of Pittsburgh. Despite the distance, they stayed in touch over the years until a chance meeting in Philly in 2017 reignited their connection. Trips across the country followed, bridging the gap between LA and Jen’s home on the East Coast.
In a surprising turn of events, Jen, who had adamantly declared she would never move to California, found herself making the cross-country move in December 2020 to be with Jon. Despite a delayed arrival due to a positive COVID test, Jen soon settled into her new life in LA, with Jon’s unflappable support helping her feel at home.
The Proposal:
After a year and a half together in LA, Jon orchestrated a memorable proposal during a visit back to Philly. He whisked Jen up to the roof deck of her former apartment, where he had arranged for her parents and closest friends to be present. Although the proposal was accidentally recorded as a view of the stucco (thanks to a forgotten front-facing camera), the sentiment behind it was heartfelt and unforgettable.
As they look forward to their wedding day, Jen and Jon are excited about bringing their family and friends together to celebrate their love. It’s a moment they’ve been eagerly anticipating, surrounded by their loved ones, sharing laughter, and joy, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Here are our favorites from their glam wedding at Ballroom at the Ben beautifully captured by Ralph Deal Photography.
Reception: Ballroom at the Ben | Dress: Lovella Bridal | Planner: Nancy Ellen | Videographer: Brian Jenkins | Music: DJ Jrip (Julius del Rosario) | Hair & Make-up: GLOSS Makeup and Hair Artistry | Cake: The Master’s Baker | Florist: NE Flower Boutique – Anastasia Bei
My wedding was 9.23.23. Ralph and his team were a DREAM to work with. I would recommend them to family, friends, and/or strangers in a heartbeat. We chatted with many potential photographers, but once we met Ralph we knew he was the one for us. He ensured us that our photos would genuinely reflect who we are (which they did) and guided us through the magic that was our special day.
Ralph provided us with ideas, reassurance, & validation throughout months of planning. He quickly (and successfully) adapted plans when the rain pushed our outside ceremony inside; he was available to us whenever we needed him and was full of insight that extended well beyond the photography world. Beyond all of that, we just had a “wedding day gallery reveal part in Ralph’s elegant and endearing home studio.
My family got to be by my side as we saw our photos for the first time on Ralph’s big screen! He poured us wine and truly took his time helping us choose our favorites… which were basically every single one of them. Wonderful person and INCREDIBLE artist! If you are looking for a sign, this is it!!! You need Ralph Deal & his team at your wedding!