Modern American Swedish Historical Museum Wedding

When two art lovers plan their wedding at an art museum, you know pretty instantaneously that it’s going to be memorable.  Leah and Kevin’s American Swedish Historical Museum wedding was as beautiful as it was unique. Location aside, they poured so much love and thought into every detail and it showed in their art-forward wedding gallery that followed. If that sounds like your vibe, their wedding is chock full of inspiration! 

American Swedish Historical Museum

Both the location and the venue itself are beautiful! I felt very inspired while photographing Leah and Kevin at the American Swedish Historical Museum and I’d love to return. This Philadelphia wedding venue is a unique option for weddings of up to 200 guests. They offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony options, multiple spaces for cocktail hour and reception, and catering is included. The museum also offers venue coordinators but outside vendors are welcome too. It’s worth noting that the museum is still available to the public and other couples touring the space up until the ceremony starts. The style and architecture here are unmatched, but if privacy is important to you, you may need to reconsider. I should also add that with Leah & Kevin’s wedding, we had no issues capturing portraits and a great time was had by all. 

Leah & Kevin’s American Swedish Museum Wedding Details

Leah and Kevin are art lovers in different ways. Kevin is big into movies and film, and Leah wanted a more fashion-forward look for her wedding day. The resulting details were the perfect marriage of the two! Every decision, from the personalized vibrant red-orange matchbooks for guests to the seashell cufflinks Kevin wore, was intentional, honest, and bold. The bouquet and floral arrangements by Caroline Florals were unexpected and stunning. Leah’s shoes were unique and paired perfectly with her pearl necklace and lace trimmed veil. Even the venue itself (along with their art-filled guest book) was a tribute to their personalities and story.  

American Swedish Historical Museum Ceremony

Cool details aside, I love how in love these two are. From the moment they arrived, they were so emotional with each other and their friends. Leah cried all day – it was so sweet! They were ecstatic during their first look and that energy continued into their ceremony. Candles lined the grand staircase that led to the arch where they said their vows. They exchanged “I dos” surrounded by artwork as their  closest friends and family looked on from above and below. It was a beautiful ceremony to say the least!

Philadelphia Art Museum Wedding Reception

Following the ceremony, Leah and Kevin enjoyed a cocktail hour in the courtyard with their guests. The crisp autumn air and matching golden foliage made for beautiful scenery while they enjoyed time with their guests that continued on into the reception. Wine colored linens covered tables decorated with handpainted table number signs and Anthurium. (Fun fact: those are better known by their nickname, Painter’s Palette. Fitting, huh?)

The happy couple danced the night away together under cafe lights & a chandelier atop a black and white checkered dance floor.  It wasn’t long before guests joined in the fun! Following speeches, cake (devil’s food with raspberry jam and vanilla buttercream, by the way), and signature drinks, everyone in attendance let their hair down. This celebration was incredible from start to the moment the very last guest left for the night! 

Vendors

Photo: Rachel Bond Photo
Venue: American Swedish Historical Museum 
Caterer: American Swedish Historical Museum 
Dress: By Watters & Anthropologie
Florist: Caroline Florals
Entertainment: The Groovesmen Band 
Stationery: Papery of Philly
Hair: Rescue Spa

Wedding Photography Philadelphia

If you’re envisioning wedding photos that will withstand the test of time, you’re in the right place. Hey, I’m Rachel, a Pennsylvania based wedding photographer here to capture your wedding through a nostalgic lens that allows you to relive this day for years to come. If you’re planning a bold & artistic wedding of your own, I’ll be there to make sure no moment slips through the cracks. Ready to make some wildly human, deeply you memories together? Check out my pricing + investment details here and head this way to get in touch and lock in your date.