Further Proof that Longwood Gardens is a Disney Princess Dream Land for Wedding Photos

Photographs by Dyanna LaMora

The union of Kira Baker and Philip Luca is a real life fairy tale that all little girls dream of. From Kira’s princess-like dress to their flower-filled pre-wedding photoshoot at Longwood Gardens, this summer-centric country club wedding is truly reminiscent of a Disney movie. See the romance and elegance of Kira and Philip’s special day in these photos captured by Dyanna LaMora.

Philip, hailing from Brasov, Romania, first met Kira, who’s originally from Kennett Square, at church in Alexandria, VA, where they both were living. She caught his eye from the row in front of him; After the service, he introduced himself and they discussed, among other things, Kira’s pug, Juice.  Kira was struck by Philip’s height and dapper looks, not to mention his accent.

They spent their first date at Old Town Alexandria’s waterfront, where they grabbed brunch at a French creperie. Conversation flowed effortlessly, so the pair decided to stop by the Torpedo Factory Gallery to wander through some art exhibits. What was intended to be a quick meal turned into a day-long adventure, and Kira was won over by Philip’s European charm.

After dating for exactly one year and eight days, Philip whisked Kira away on a surprise trip to Paris, where he proposed by the Eiffel Tower. Eight months later, Philip and Kira were married on July 3, 2016 at the Dupont Country Club in Wilmington, Delaware. Their ballroom ceremony, filled with natural light and a flower petal-lined aisle, was both elegant and romantic. To the bride’s surprise, Philip serenaded her with a song that he wrote during the ceremony.

While their guests were busy mingling and sipping watermelon Mojitos and French 75’s during cocktail hour, the newlyweds dashed off to a private photoshoot at the beautiful Longwood Gardens where, as you can tell, the flowers as well as Philip and Kira’s love were in full bloom. Back at their black-tie reception, peonies, hydrangeas and roses graced their elegant blush tablescapes. A mini Eiffel Tower adorned the seating chart table in homage to Kira and Philip’s engagement.

In the groom’s favorite memory of the day, the duo shared their first dance on the ballroom floor to Christina Perri’s “A Thousand Years.” They honeymooned in St. Lucia before returning home to Virginia, where she works in advertising and he works in marketing. 

VENDORS

Photography: Dyanna LaMora | Venue: Dupont Country Club | Florist: Sweet Pea | Catering/Cake: Dupont Country Club | Bride’s Gown: Hayley Paige from Love Couture Bridal | Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Jenny Yoo from Nordstrom | Groom’s Tux: Black by Vera Wang from Men’s Warehouse | Hair and Makeup: Daneene Jensen and Associates | Music/ Entertainment: Silver Sound DJ’s | Invitations: Minted

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