Alli and Michael decided on a low-key winter wedding in the city where they live. Their restaurant wedding in Philadelphia was the perfect way to gather their loved ones, celebrate and eat unforgettable food. They planned an intimate affair and both got ready in their home. All their formal photos were done on their rooftop deck and on the street in front of the Philadelphia house. Having a December wedding, the holiday spirit was in the air and added an extra festive feel to their gathering.
Alli and Michael met through work when Michael offered to drive Allie to a client they were both working with. Little did they know, that first car ride was the start of some of the best moments of their lives over the next four weeks. For every car ride, they had together the conversation flowed. Michael and Alli were able to tell each other everything, even things they haven’t shared with other people before. They felt safe with each other and knew that what was said wouldn’t be shared with anyone else. When they were both tired of talking they listened to David Guetta ft. Nicki Minaj’s “Hey Mama” on repeat. They even sang and danced along! For those of you who know Alli, you know this is a big deal for her as she is naturally shy and reserved. For Michael though, naturally outgoing and fun who dances with no reservations at every event, it was a chance to meet the real Alli. Man, those were some great car rides!
Michael and Alli were given off the week of July 4th and decided to take a small vacation to Bar Harbor, Maine. They both wanted to do something outdoorsy and thought this would be the perfect place to go. Thank goodness Michael and Alli love car rides and know how to make the best of them! When they (finally) arrived at the Inn they were exhausted but exhilarated. It was idyllic.
The next day Alli planned a long hike for the two of them in Acadia National Park. They were going to hike up Penobscot and Sargent Mountains – two of the five tallest mountains in the park! After about an hour and a half, they were 1/3 of the way up Penobscot and found a beautiful spot overlooking the Bay of Maine and the Atlantic ocean. Michael bent down to get something out of his bag and when Alli turned around Michael was on his knee with a ring in his hand! Michael asked Alli to be his wife on that secluded spot on Penobscot Mountain and Alli, of course, said YES!
Check out these bridesmaids! I love their wintery bouquets adorned with pinecones and their warm and stylish furry coats.
After getting ready at their home, they headed into center city Philadelphia for their wedding ceremony and reception which were both hosted right in the warm, welcoming, and delicious Italian restaurant.
Alli’s grandfather was the officiant and only surviving grandfather between the couple. This made their ceremony especially touching. Alli was also wearing the shoes her mom wore at her wedding and her necklace that her dad got her on their first Christmas together. These special elements were sentimental and tied the generations together on this important occasion.
One of the perks of having your wedding at a restaurant is the food! Melograno’s did not disappoint. From their oven-fresh pizza at cocktail hour to their Octopus and house-made meatballs, everything was amazing. The guests were treated to a wonderful dining experience!
Wedding Venue: Melograno Restaurant
Caterer: Melograno Restaurant
Wedding Dress: Hayley Paige
Wedding Dress shop: Philly Bride
Wedding Shoes: Company Name: Dyeables (they were my mom’s) + Kate Spade
Bridesmaid Dresses: BHLDN
Hair: Brides by Valerie Clarke
Make-up: Brides by Valerie Clarke
Rings: Safian and Rudolph
Flowers: Triple Tree Flowers
Groom’s attire: Indochino
Invitations: Minted