Abigail and Ben’s Chic and Romantic All-Black Attired Wedding at St James 1868

This wedding at St. James 1868 was the definition of chic. The space (once a cathedral!) already feels grand with its soaring ceilings and limestone walls, but add a full black-tie dress code and it became next level. Every guest wore black, which made everything feel cohesive, elevated, and honestly… iconic. The soft white florals and candlelight kept it romantic so it never felt too heavy — just timeless and intentional.

Their story started a year earlier at Union Station under the Great Hall skylight. In the middle of the bustle of the city, he dropped to one knee and completely surprised her. It felt like a movie scene. Getting to plan and photograph both their proposal and their wedding (as a close friend!) made this celebration even more special to me.

The bride wore a sleek, modern gown from Bri’Zan Couture designed by Sima Couture that fit her like it was made just for her. She had a dramatic overskirt for the ceremony and then removed it for a second look at the reception — which was such a moment. The groom kept it classic with a black tux and added a champagne vest and bow tie for just a little contrast against the all-black vibe.

The food was thoughtful and fun — bao buns, stuffed mushrooms, spicy shrimp, and bruschetta for cocktail hour, plus signature drinks with custom stirrers featuring their Pointers (which guests loved). Dinner was served family-style with short ribs, herb chicken, colorful seasonal vegetables, and a citrus couscous that people were still talking about. Dessert was filled cupcakes (think spiced cinnamon and fruit centers) and a simple, pearl-detailed cake that was understated but beautiful.

The ceremony was incredibly personal. Her oldest sibling officiated and somehow tied in football metaphors honoring their love for the Philadelphia Eagles in the sweetest way. A harpist played throughout the ceremony and cocktail hour, even covering Taylor Swift’s “New Year’s Day,” which has always meant a lot to them. One of the most emotional moments of the night was when the groom heard a surprise recording of his grandmother giving her blessing — there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.

And just when everyone thought the night couldn’t get more fun, they ran onto the dance floor in custom Eagles jerseys with their new shared last name on the back. It was playful, personal, and so them — the perfect ending to a day that felt equal parts elegant and deeply meaningful.