A Transatlantic Love Story + a Perfect Blend of Cultures
Londoner Alex met Sarah when she was a student studying abroad in his city. The two fell in love and it wasn't long before Alex moved to Philadelphia to be with Sarah. For their Pennsylvania nuptials, the couple paid homage to the three countries most meaningful to them – England (his heritage), China (her heritage), and the States (their current home). From the English Pimms signature cocktail to the Chinese writing on the paper goods to the historical venues, the end result captured by Ashley Bartoletti Photography was perfectly "them" and perfectly beautiful!
From Ashley Bartoletti Photography... Sarah and Alex met when Sarah was a student studying abroad in London where Alex lived at the time – eventually he moved to Philadelphia to be with her. They got married on the grounds of a historical cathedral in Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania, followed by a reception next door at Cairnwood Estate. The wedding is beautiful with lots of pretty florals and portraits on the grounds of the amazing properties.
From the Bride... We wanted a classic but not stuffy wedding that reflected our personalities and heritage. Our color palette was pinks and peaches to fit with the venue. I wanted it to be romantic but not too girly or cheesy. We wanted to pay tribute to both his English and my Chinese heritage, so we tried to include elements of each: English and Chinese verses for the ceremony, Chinese writing on invitations and menus, and English Pimms cocktails as our signature drink. We had a big Chinese banquet the night before (with so much karaoke!), so we served a traditional English menu at the dinner (rack of lamb and stuffed Cornish hen).
There were so many favorite moments from the day – two of my favorites were definitely the toasts and first dance. Also, my parents hand made the favors. It is traditional in China to give out wedding candy, so my aunt brought the candy from China, and we wrapped it in colorful Chinese double happiness boxes.
Choosing the flowers was my favorite part of wedding planning. We loved using all local, small-business vendors. Everyone was so great to work with!
My advice to Brides-to-be would be to enjoy every moment as it will go by in a blur. Also plan extra time for hair and makeup as things will inevitably run late!
From the Bride... We wanted a classic but not stuffy wedding that reflected our personalities and heritage. Our color palette was pinks and peaches to fit with the venue. I wanted it to be romantic but not too girly or cheesy. We wanted to pay tribute to both his English and my Chinese heritage, so we tried to include elements of each: English and Chinese verses for the ceremony, Chinese writing on invitations and menus, and English Pimms cocktails as our signature drink. We had a big Chinese banquet the night before (with so much karaoke!), so we served a traditional English menu at the dinner (rack of lamb and stuffed Cornish hen).
There were so many favorite moments from the day – two of my favorites were definitely the toasts and first dance. Also, my parents hand made the favors. It is traditional in China to give out wedding candy, so my aunt brought the candy from China, and we wrapped it in colorful Chinese double happiness boxes.
Choosing the flowers was my favorite part of wedding planning. We loved using all local, small-business vendors. Everyone was so great to work with!
My advice to Brides-to-be would be to enjoy every moment as it will go by in a blur. Also plan extra time for hair and makeup as things will inevitably run late!