The Dandelion

Welcome Party

Osteria

Ceremony & Reception

The Little Gay Pub

After Party

Summer

Our Wedding

From Instagram to “I do,” our story has been shaped by a decade of meaningful moments and everyday memories that became the foundation of our life together. What began as a long-distance connection between NYC and Philadelphia grew into a shared home, a family, and now, our wedding day. This timeline looks back at a few of the milestones that brought us here.

Our Story

Photos

Wedding Party

If you’re staying one night on September 6, we encourage you to contact the hotel in advance to request early check-in. Standard check-in begins at 3:00 PM, and shuttles will depart Hotel Monaco for Osteria at 3:40 PM.

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia

<center>Wedding day transportation will be available for guests staying at Hotel Monaco. Shuttles will begin boarding at 3:15 PM and will depart for Osteria at 3:40 PM. Return transportation to the hotel will begin at 9:00 PM for guests departing before the reception concludes. The final shuttle will depart Osteria at 10:00 PM, at the conclusion of the reception. The first stop will be The Little Gay Pub for guests joining the After Party, followed by a final stop at Hotel Monaco. Transportation will not be provided from the After Party back to the hotel. Ride share options are available.</center>

Wedding Day Transportation

Hotel & Transportation

What Is Cocktail Wedding Attire?

Cocktail Dresses to Add to Your Cart ASAP

What Guys Need to Know About Dress Codes

Cocktail attire felt like the right fit for the evening. We want the night to feel dressed up, inviting, and easy to enjoy. Dresses, suits, jackets, and polished evening wear are all great options. Ties are welcome but not required. Early September in Philadelphia can still be warm, so we recommend checking the forecast closer to the weekend.

Attire

Why Philly Means So Much to Us

Philadelphia is more than the place where we’re getting married. It’s also a city with a powerful and deeply meaningful place in <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/articles/philadelphia/essential-lgbt-sites-things-to-do-philadelphia/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">LGBTQ+ history</a>. Generations of activism, courage, and community have shaped the city, and that legacy of pride is still felt here today. It’s especially meaningful to celebrate our wedding in a place where love, visibility, and resilience are woven into so much of its story.

Things to Do

From historic landmarks and museums to classic city sights and local favorites, we hope you take time to enjoy the city we call home while you’re here.

Dining

Want to stay close to the hotel? Start your day with coffee from <a href="https://www.lacolombe.com/pages/cafes/independence-mall?srsltid=AfmBOoq7SL7fpsyFQjX8Oub389HiXHNS5BngiAOXmGYR_Mo-tbhgLLvV" rel="noopener" target="_blank">La Colombe</a>, one of Kevin and Richard’s Philadelphia favorites, or settle in for brunch at <a href="https://www.redowltavern.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Red Owl Tavern</a>, conveniently located in the hotel lobby. Looking to explore? Philadelphia is one of America’s great food cities, with everything from <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/food-drink/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">award-winning restaurants</a> to iconic <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/articles/philadelphia/top-10-spots-for-authentic-philly-cheesesteaks/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">cheesesteaks</a>, <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/articles/philadelphia/best-pretzels-in-philadelphia/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">soft pretzels</a>, and <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/articles/philadelphia/where-to-find-the-best-hoagies-in-philadelphia/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">hoagies</a>. For a classic Philly cheesesteak, we recommend Jim’s at 4th and South.

Museums

Independence HallAcross the street from Hotel Monaco, <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/independence-hall/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Independence Hall</a> is one of Philadelphia’s most iconic historic sites. To guarantee entry at your preferred time, we recommend reserving the $1 timed tickets in advance on the website. The tour lasts about 20 minutes. Liberty BellLocated at 526 Market Street, the <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/the-liberty-bell-center/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Liberty Bell Center</a> is a must-see while exploring Historic Philadelphia. Admission is free, and no tickets are required, making it a convenient stop on its own or an ideal addition to a visit to Independence Hall. Betsy Ross HouseIn the heart of Old City at 239 Arch Street, the <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/the-betsy-ross-house/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Betsy Ross House</a> offers a look inside one of Philadelphia’s most recognizable historic homes. This is a nice choice for guests who want a smaller, more intimate historic site and usually works well as a shorter visit. National Constitution CenterLocated at 525 Arch Street, the <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/national-constitution-center/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">National Constitution Center</a> is just steps from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. With interactive exhibits and the 17-minute Freedom Rising presentation, visitors can experience the museum in under an hour or spend several hours exploring. Museum of the American RevolutionIf you’re interested in a deeper look at America’s founding, the <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/museum-of-the-american-revolution/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Museum of the American Revolution</a> at 101 South 3rd Street offers an engaging and immersive experience. Advance timed tickets are strongly recommended, and it’s worth setting aside a few hours to fully explore the galleries. Philly Pride Visitor CenterLocated in the heart of the Gayborhood at 12th &amp; Locust, the <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/philly-pride-visitor-center/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Philly Pride Visitor Center</a> is a hub for LGBTQ+ travelers and locals alike. Exhibits invite visitors to learn about Philadelphia's leading role in the fight for gay rights.

Guided Tours

Big Bus ToursSee Philadelphia from a <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/big-bus-tours/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">double-decker, open-top bus</a> while taking in some of the city’s most iconic sights. Along the way, live guides share fun stories, local history, and highlights from neighborhoods including Old City, Society Hill, Penn’s Landing, Center City, the Parkway Museum District, and Fairmount Park.

Other Popular Philly Attractions

Penn’s LandingPhiladelphia’s vibrant <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/penns-landing/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">waterfront district</a> features parks, public spaces, and iconic views of the Delaware River and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Rocky Statue &amp; Rocky StepsA classic Philly stop, the <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/the-rocky-statue-and-the-rocky-steps/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Rocky Statue and Rocky Steps</a> are located at the Philadelphia Museum of Art on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. This is a fun option for anyone who wants an iconic photo, a little movie history, and one of the city’s most recognizable views. LOVE Park &amp; LOVE StatueJust steps from City Hall, <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/attractions/love-park/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">LOVE Park</a> is one of Philadelphia’s most recognizable spots and a fun place to snap a photo by the iconic LOVE Statue. It’s an easy stop while exploring Center City and a classic Philadelphia landmark to see during your visit. Reading Terminal MarketOne of the nation’s oldest and largest public markets, <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/things-to-do/food-drink/reading-terminal-market/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Reading Terminal Market</a> as welcomed visitors since 1893. Today, guests can enjoy a wide range of cuisines, from soul food and Asian and Middle Eastern dishes to traditional Pennsylvania Dutch fare.

Philadelphia

What time should I arrive?

Guests may arrive at Osteria beginning at 4:00 PM. The ceremony will begin promptly at 4:30 PM, so we encourage you to allow time to find your seat beforehand.

What should I wear to the wedding?

Cocktail attire is requested. Dresses, suits, jackets, and other polished evening wear are all great options. Ties are welcome but not required. We want everyone to feel comfortable, confident, and ready to celebrate.

Can I bring a guest or children?

Please refer to your invitation or RSVP for the names included in your party. While we are delighted to celebrate with the children in our families, our wedding will otherwise be an adults-only celebration.

Will the wedding be indoors or outdoors?

The ceremony and reception will both be held indoors at Osteria. We loved the idea of celebrating the entire evening in one intimate, welcoming space with everyone together. If you have accessibility needs or questions before the wedding, please reach out to us so we can help make the evening as comfortable as possible.

Is the ceremony unplugged?

Yes. We ask that phones and cameras be put away during the ceremony so everyone can be fully present with us in the moment. We’re grateful to have professional photographers and filmmakers capturing the day, and we look forward to sharing those memories with you.

What should I know about Philadelphia that weekend?

With <a href="https://www.visitphilly.com/2026-philadelphia/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">America 250</a> events taking place, Philadelphia may feel especially lively over Labor Day weekend. We recommend booking accommodations by August 1 and allowing a little extra time for getting around. While you’re here, we hope you’ll take the opportunity to explore the city’s historic landmarks, museums, restaurants, and favorite Philadelphia spots.

What time is check-in at the hotel?

Standard check-in begins at 3:00 PM. If you’re staying one night on September 6, we encourage you to contact the hotel in advance to request early check-in. Shuttles will depart Hotel Monaco for Osteria at 3:40 PM.

Can I bring my dog to the hotel?

Yes! Hotel Monaco is pet-friendly and welcomes dogs of all sizes. Franklin will be staying with us at the hotel all weekend because, naturally, a kennel was never really an option.

What is the best airport or train station?

<a href="https://www.phl.org/about" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Philadelphia International Airport</a> is the most convenient airport for guests flying in. For guests traveling by train, <a href="https://www.amtrak.com/stations/phl" rel="noopener" target="_blank">30th Street Station</a> is the main Amtrak station in Philadelphia.

Will transportation be provided on the wedding day?

Wedding day transportation will be available for guests staying at Hotel Monaco. Shuttles will begin boarding at 3:15 PM and will depart for Osteria at 3:40 PM.

Can I drive, and is parking available?

Guests are welcome to travel to Osteria on their own. The most reliable parking option is the parking garage at 522 North 15th Street, located below the Giant grocery store and about a 1- to 2-minute walk from the venue. Evening parking is $32, and complimentary EV chargers are available. Street parking may also be available, but it is limited and less predictable.

Will there be transportation at the end of the night?

Return transportation to the hotel will begin at 9:00 PM for guests departing before the reception concludes. The final shuttle will depart Osteria at 10:00 PM, at the conclusion of the reception. The first stop will be The Little Gay Pub for guests joining the After Party, followed by a final stop at Hotel Monaco.

Where is the After Party?

After the reception, we’ll be heading to <a href="https://www.thelittlegaypub.com/about" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The Little Gay Pub</a> in Philadelphia’s Gayborhood for anyone who would like to keep the celebration going. Located at 102 S. 13th Street, it’s an eclectic neighborhood spot known for its cocktails and easygoing atmosphere, and we thought it would be a great place to continue the night with friends and family. All are welcome, and drinks will be available for purchase.

Will there be a bride’s side or groom’s side? How does this work?

No bride, no sides. We’re excited to celebrate with all of our favorite people together. Seating will be assigned, so when you arrive, please find the seating chart and then your seat. Your ceremony seat will also be your seat for the reception.

Will there be any wedding traditions that are different?

Yes, probably a few. Since this is a wedding of two grooms, some traditions may look a little different, and we’re choosing the ones that feel most meaningful to us. More than anything, we want the day to feel personal, joyful, and true to who we are.

What should we call the wedding party?

We’re not having a traditional wedding party. As with many parts of the day, we’re choosing what feels most meaningful to us and celebrating surrounded by the people we love most.

Why Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has been such an important part of our story and the life we have built together. It's home for us, and we can’t imagine a more meaningful place to celebrate with the people we love. With the country marking its 250th birthday, it also feels like a memorable time to welcome everyone to the city.

Why Osteria?

We chose Osteria because it felt like the kind of place where we truly wanted to celebrate this moment. From the beginning, it stood out as beautiful, warm, and welcoming, with an intimate atmosphere that felt right for our wedding. We loved that the experience is centered around food, conversation, and gathering together. More than anything, it felt like a place where we could celebrate with the people we love most.

Kevin & Richard

Kevin & Richard

Hotel & Transportation

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia

Wedding Day Transportation