Opulent Lebanese Museum Wedding at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts by Deibert Photography

written by Dolly Marshall

Getting married in the city of Philadelphia definitely has its pick of spectacular venues. That’s why Rim and Kyle chose the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts better known as PAFA. Not only because it is the first art museum in the United States, but it also reflects the diverse cultural heritage of the city – full of breathtaking scenery and history.


From the photographer, Deibert Photography: “We met Rim and Kyle by way of good luck – she won a contest on Philly in Love for photography and video (by love note!). It made it even better that it was hosted at one of our fave Philly venues- Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts!Rim and Kyle really made sure that the day felt true to them- mixing in a lot of culture from her Lebanese roots. The couple rented an Airbnb downtown, which boasting amazing views of City Hall, while still retaining a ton of privacy for the big reveal. They wanted to include the museum in most of their portraits, taking advantage of all the sculptures, staircases and grandness. After the ceremony, Rim and Kyle surprised their guests with a Lebanese dance group who really kicked things off and got everyone on the dance floor. Their touches of gold and pink in the decor complimented the venue and the couple’s elegant look perfectly.”

bride and groom standing on staircase
bride and bridesmaids
bride on her wedding day holding bouquet
couple holding hands in city

How They Met

“We met through a dating app!”

bride and groom
bride and bridesmaids getting ready
bride putting on earrings
wedding dress and bridesmaids dresses
bride putting on wedding gown
groom getting dressing on wedding day
groom reading card

The Proposal

“Kyle proposed on ‘Peace Hill’, our favorite spot in St John island where we go every year to visit.”

bride and groom holding hands outside
wedding rings nestled in flowers
bride walking down stairs with father
bride and groom at wedding ceremony

Wedding Planning

“We wanted to keep it simple yet classy. We tried not to go into the smallest details but rather focus on the big picture. We chose vendors we trusted and let them run the show!”

groom placing ring on brides finger at wedding
bride and groom getting married
bride and groom walking down stairs at wedding

PAFA

“We saw PAFA online while searching for venues. When I went to check out the place I immediately knew it was the one! The historic building is so rich and beautiful, we fell in love with it.”

bride and groom in museum
wedding reception in museum
dining table at wedding reception
wedding guests at reception in museum
bride and groom at wedding reception

Wedding Inspiration

“We wanted simple and classy. We tried to have a Lebanese twist given Rim’s cultural heritage.”

bride and groom dance at wedding
wedding cake
welcome table at museum wedding
wedding reception with Lebanese dancers
wedding reception with Lebanese dancers
Lebanese dancers at wedding reception
bride and groom enjoy Lebanese dance performance

Best Moment

“The ceremony was magical.”

bride and groom getting married
bride and groom dance
bride beating Lebanese drum at wedding reception
bride dances with mother-in-law at wedding reception
bride and bridesmaids dance at wedding
bridesmaids pose for picture at wedding reception

Wedding Planning Advice

“Take it easy and don’t stress about the little tiny details. Some things will go wrong, which is totally fine. Remember why you decided to get married and just enjoy the day. Choose vendors you can trust and can execute your vision. Minimize the numbers of vendors if possible to make things easier to plan.”

bride and groom cut wedding cake
bride and groom at sweetheart table
groom dips bride at wedding reception

Wedding Vendors

“We loved them all! PAFA’s crew, 12th Street Catering and Deibert Photography were very professional and flexible.” 


Vendors | Ceremony venue: PAFA  | Reception venue: PAFA  Photographer: Deibert Photography |Floral/Decor: Robertson’s Flowers | Stationery: Minted |Dress Designer: Lazaro| Hair and MakeUp: Aleksandra Ambrosy |Caterer: 12th Street Catering |Cake/Bakery: Cake Life Videographer: Love Note Weddings |Photo Booth: Super Selfie Station