Tie-the-Knot Tuesday: Best Philadelphia Gay-Friendly Wedding Vendors, So Far

One of our favorite new columns, Tie-the-Knot Tuesday, has featured a host of Philadelphia-area gay couples who have shared their marriage stories with our readers. We thought it was fitting to capture some of the best vendors, the venues, food, and florists that our couples selected as being gay-friendly and fun. Below you’ll find some of our favorite picks of where you and your wedding guests can enjoy a great meal, a hot dancefloor, yummy food, and beautiful flowers.

The Garden Path Gifts and Flowers

Dana and Tracey Jones raved about the floral arrangements from this Harrisburg-area flower shop. "The Garden Path florist gave us the most gorgeous floral arrangements ever," the couple wrote. After a brief browse through their website, it is easy to see why Dana and Tracey loved their flowers: the sheer amount of choices, colors, and arrangements makes this florist one to cherish. (3525 Walnut St., Harrisburg, PA. 800-467-0561)

Invitations of Distinction

The gay-friendly stationary designer was the pick of Adria and Stephanie Bartash, our first-ever Tie-the-Knot couple. The company, based in Conshohocken, promises "to have exactly what you are looking for in order to make all the elements of your invitation ensemble come together." A local favorite, the papery has been named to PHL17's "Hot List" for best stationary. (235 Cardinal Dr, Conshohocken, PA. (610) 940-1100)

Macy's

Sure, we've all been in the mega department store many times, but for married couple Anthony Lower and Nick Scott, Macy's provided outstanding service as they found their wedding-day attire. "The folks at Macy's helped us find the perfect suits," they said. "They treated us like we were family members." With over a dozen locations in the greater Philadelphia area, there's a shop near by to help meet your suit and tie needs. (1300 Market St., Philadelphia, PA. (215) 241-9000)

Anh Dep Studio.

This Philadelphia-based wedding planning agency wowed Em Sov and Kat Nuguyen, who used the studio to decorate their reception space. "They totally transformed Tai Lake Restaurant," the couple said. The website for the studio is gorgeous, and provides a host of pictures and portfolios of how they created beautiful weddings for both gay and straight couples. (600 Washington Ave, Philadelphia, PA. (215) 271-7160)

Salon Escape

When you have two gorgeous brides like Ethelda Makois and Wendy Sheppard, you don't need to worry too much about make-up and hair! But, nevertheless, the couple selected this Warrington salon to complete their wedding look. Of note, they recommended their friend Rayna Philbrick, who did both their hair and make-up. The salon offers wedding packages, including champagne and orange juice! (1432 Easton Rd., Suite 1B, Warrington, PA. (215) 343-1900)

Germantown Cricket Club.

Tucked away on 14 acres is this gorgeous venue, selected by Sheri Donley and Meredith Swinney as the location for their special day. The club, which promises "a unique blend of delicious food, atmosphere and superior service," has just about everything, from a Grand Ballroom to a private bowling alley. It's also on the National Historic Registry, meaning guests will experience old-world charm with modern amenities. (411 W. Maneim St., Philadelphia PA. (215) 438-9900)

Michael Hagan Photography

John Brady and Trent Williams claim that they "are not easily impressed," yet found that the services of Michael Hagan were "truly perfect." The Drexel Hill-based photographer has shot numerous weddings, portraits, sporting events, and art pictures, and has been in the business since 1994. In fact, he has shot over 1,000 clients and events and has taught over 3,000 photography students. (4106 Rosemont Ave., Drexel Hill, PA. (610) 405-4112)

The Franklin Institute

We could not finish this round-up of vendors without mentioning this fabulous idea from Melissa Cooper and Lauren Schmucker, who held their reception at the world-renowned museum. "There were many memorable moments, from our ceremony under the stars in Fels Planetarium, to the cocktail hour in the new Brain Exhibit, followed by dinner and dancing in front of Ben Franklin himself," the couple said. Now, that's cool. (222 N. 20th St., Philadelphia, PA. 215.448.1200)

Want to be featured in a future Tie-the-Knot Tuesday? If you’re a gay or lesbian couple married in Pennsylvania, we want to hear from you. Contact us here.