Photo: Tina Jay Photography
Whether or not you’re tying the knot in the City of Brotherly Love or are celebrating elsewhere, there are many unique ways to personalize your festivities and incorporate pieces of Philadelphia in your big day. From favors to food, décor, and more — check out our favorite ways to show your Philly pride as a bride. (See what we did there?)
Menu
There are endless food and drink options to add to your wedding menu that feature certain Philly flair. True Philly cheesesteaks in all shapes and sizes (obviously) can be a delicious addition to your cocktail or after party offerings. For local libations, Philadelphia Brewing Company has over a dozen varieties of beers to choose from, and their Session IPA from PHL is a fan favorite (with a colorful ode to PHL right on the label). Guests will go crazy for a cocktail hour station devoted to all things Philly — where Roast Port Italiano, sausages, Philadelphia’s own TastyKakes, and Frank’s Soda can be served — just to name a few. The website A Taste of Philly, can also directly ship some of the city’s most famous delicacies for out-of-staters who wants some Philly love.
Music
What could be more fun and Philly-focused than entering your reception along with the “Rocky” theme song playing? If that’s not for you, there are a variety of other local musicians with Philly roots that can have a spot in your DJ or band’s rotation. A first dance to a Boyz II Men hit can help set a romantic-yet-playful mood, and cocktail hour music recorded by John Coltrane can help give off jazzy vibes before the party starts. Bridal party entrances to The Fresh Prince of Bel Air is sure to be a hit, and if you want some rap for your after party, Meek Mill is a proud Philadelphian, too.
See More: Show Your Love of Philly on Your Wedding Cake With One of Our Favorite Local Bakers
Favors
Who doesn’t love a TastyKake? Get creative and buy your favorite packaged deserts in bulk, and add a custom sticker label for a personal touch. Krimpets, Kandy Kakes, and Snowballs — yum! You can also have custom M&Ms made with team logos and your initials, wedding date, or new monogram for an extra sweet treat. Soft pretzels (a Philly staple) served warm in custom bags as a parting gift for guests will add a savory snack to the end-of-the-night cravngs. Local city business Pennsylvania General Store offers a variety of options for locally-sourced snacks and sweets you can share with your guests.
Décor
When it comes to bringing a little bit of Philly in your wedding décor, the LOVE sculpture is pretty much a given. Not only is it an iconic piece of the former capital of the United States, but is also oh-so-appropriate for weddings photo ops, too. Consider featuring this design in an ice sculpture or incorporating it into your centerpieces. For your escort table, miniature Liberty Bells, skyline cut outs, or state outlines make the perfect graphics to add to cards or as a way to hold them. Custom cake toppers where you and your groom can be depicted wearing your favorite sports jersey are also a perfect way to show your passion for this Pennsylvania city.
Photos
If you love the Eagles, Philies, or Flyers, here’s yet another way to show your pride. Throw on your favorite player’s jersey (carefully — don’t mess up your wedding hair!) for a few fun wedding portraits you can cherish forever. Or, take these photos and more (on the waterfront, at your favorite city spots) as part of your engagement photos, and then display them at your wedding in a slideshow or around the venue in frames.
