Enchanting Late Summer Garden Wedding in Philadelphia

On a scale of 1-10 if we were to rate just how much we love this wedding it would be off the charts (I’m talking level 15) in terms of our obsession. Because any day that has La Petite Fleur crafting florals and Lori Gail Photography behind the lens is sure to be a new favorite. Join us as we revel in the pretty and see it all for yourself in THE VAULT



From the Bride… We wanted the decor for our wedding to reflect both the decadence of the Gilded Age Glen Foerd mansion as well as the natural beauty of its setting along the Delaware River. La Petite Fleur, designed a decor plan that carried the tree theme throughout, from our invitations and tree favors to planting a tree during the ceremony, the escort card display table, and the names of each reception table, seemed a fitting symbol of both new beginnings and enduring strength. As our officiant quoted, “He who plants a tree believes in the future.”

We met on the first day of orientation for our Masters degree programs at Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs, where Eric studied International Security Policy and Caitlin studied Economic and Political Development. Eric proposed on a dock at sunset at Loblolly house, designed by Caitlin’s dad, where the Kieran family and friends spend many of their weekends (our save the dates actually featured a painting of this dock by our friend and neighbor). We planned to visit Nicaragua for our honeymoon, but when we went to check in online the morning after the wedding, we discovered that Eric’s passport had expired. Fortunately, Eric had the bright idea that we visit Puerto Rico instead. We immediately changed our flights, joined our friends and family for brunch and solicited suggestions for things to do and see in Puerto Rico, booked a few hotels, and flew out that evening. It turned out to be an amazing alternative to Nicaragua.

We decided to get a self-uniting marriage license and asked that everyone present at the ceremony serve as witnesses to our vows and do all in their power to support us in our marriage. A number of friends and family offered their musical talents to add some personal touches to the ceremony and reception. During the ceremony, Caitlin’s brother Chris Kieran sang “My Love is an Arbutus,” accompanied by Geoff McDonald, a Kieran family friend. Kathleen Knighton, Caitlin’s friend, performed an original song that she wrote for the wedding entitled, “Ask Me Again.” Another friend, Bethany Kessler, played the cello during the processional and recessional. At the reception, Chris Kieran performed “Come Fly With Me,” accompanied by Grand Tribeca Band, while Eric danced with his mom and Caitlin with her dad. And members of Caitlin’s college a cappella group, Something Extra of Yale University, sang Moondance.

Caitlin is a Senior Research Assistant for the CGIAR Research Program on Policies, Institutions, and Markets, led by the International Food Policy Research Institute, where she monitors and supports the incorporation of gender analysis within the program’s research portfolio and conducts research on issues related to gender, agriculture, and assets. Eric is a Lead Engineer and Senior Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst with Booz Allen Hamilton where he prototypes new tools and analytic methodologies and researches threat actors, techniques, and trends in cybersecurity. They live in Washington, DC with their dog (and ring bearer) Tobias.

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Photography: Lori Gail Photography | Floral Design: La Petite Fleur, weddings & events | Wedding Dress: Ivy And Aster | Invitations: Minted | Stationery: Fleurish Ink | Catering: Jamie Hollander | Hair + MakeUp: Bella Angel, LLC | Entertainment: Tribeca Grand | Men's Attire: Brooks Brothers | Transportation: Great American Trolley Company | Venue: Glen Foerd Mansion | Photobooth: Poseybooth