The Venue

The SunnyBrook Ballroom holds a special place in my heart. There is no other venue that I would so love to have seen what it looked like (or more specifically experienced) back in its creation. Its tiered pool (now the ceremony space), big bands, dances and visits from former presidents and celebrities.

My Takeaway

The magic is still there. Not overly landscaped it offers backgrounds that feel natural and make sense for the venue and allow the venue to be the star. Which I love. Every one has their own taste, but I don't really like when a venue overly landscapes with columns, walkways, and forced locations. Any photographer worth anything will find a space and vantage point to make that days photos special....we don't need (nor want) to be force into something. I definitely think this is a scenario where the idea of 'less is more' excels.

I really like the ceremony spaces. The smaller space in the back is intimate. What SunnyBrook has done well is leave room for photographers and videographers room to move around the sides and get those important facial expressions during the ceremony. It offers a nice, understated backdrop for the ceremony but also a great background for when people walk down the aisle. The large space is great too! At first glance it might be concerning that it is a bit exposed to the sun. While this is true what it offers is even consistent light for the photos. Many other venues struggle with this and the photos suffer when say the groom is in the shade but the bride is sitting in a pocket of sun, blowing out out the detail in the dress in the photos. If your wedding is at a time of year when heat is a concern, I might suggest that if possible think about moving the ceremony time to a little later in the day.

The staff and wedding coordinators are awesome. Happy to help and work with me both before the day during my scouting trip and on the day.

The reception space is really great. It's HUGE and can accommodate virtually any size reception. However, if you have a moderate size wedding they do a great job of condensing things and making it feel the space is the right size for your guest. And if your wedding guest list is still smaller, there is the other reception space.

My Favorite Parts of the day

Again the couple. Warm, inviting and some of the nicest people I met.

Cufflinks. I wont go into the personal details and reasons, but it was a unique and beautiful way of honoring someone who is missed.

Flowers. Something about sunflowers just make my smile and feel happy. Plus they were done by the mother of the groom the morning of and she handled it with all the grace, calm and skill of a seasoned veteran.

The families. I love it when they can tease with me and can take as much teasing as they give. It really makes me feel welcomed and valued.

And finally, the reception. There was SO much dancing and awesome energy. Sure there was some 'liquid courage' but nothing was out of hand and it felt like a true celebration of an awesome day and couple.

https://thesunnybrook.com/

https://vipdjentertainment.com/

Philadelphia Wedding Photographer

Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom
Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom
Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom
Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom
Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom
Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom
Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom
Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom
Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom
Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom
Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom
Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom
Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom
Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom
Philadelphia wedding photographer at The SunnyBrook Ballroom