Cherry Blossoms Filled This Philadelphia Wedding at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts

Katharine and Ben knew they “wanted to get married somewhere that wasn’t just a wedding venue, but also had some cultural value,” Katharine says of landing on Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. The art lovers made use of two galleries: Classical art set the tone for their ceremony, while contemporary works created a modern reception atmosphere. The Philly natives also incorporated elements from other cities of importance to them. To represent their New Orleans proposal, Sazeracs and a deconstructed po’ boy salad made the menu. Katharine’s dad even surprised the DC residents with lawn signs and buttons that read, “Kurland Nasielski 2018.” Naturally, guests went home with them as wedding favors. For the Jewish ceremony, Katharine and Ben added cherry blossoms to the chuppah as a nod to their home in Washington, DC.

“We were inspired by the walls of the historic building, which are gold and burgundy,” Katharine says of selecting the day’s color scheme. Lit-up papier mâché orbs and greenery lined banquet tables, while arrangements with cherry blossoms and hanging lights decorated round tables. Cascading fondant petals trimmed in gold covered a petite buttercream treat made with vanilla and chocolate chip cake and raspberry filling. The pair danced to “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers, the same song Ben asked a band to play after he popped the question.