Philadelphia Museum of Art Wedding

When Rahel Solomon, a CNN Anchor, and lawyer, Marcel Pratt said “I do” at the iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art, it was a celebration of their love, their cultures, and the city that holds a special place in their hearts. As their Philadelphia wedding planners, we were honored to bring their wedding vision to life.

Keep reading to see more from their spectacular day!

Their Love Story

The couple’s love story began at a professional networking event in Philadelphia, where Marcel caught Rahel’s eye as he regaled the crowd with a captivating story. She couldn’t resist the opportunity to join the group to listen, and the rest, as they say, is history.

In May of 2023, Marcel popped the question during a romantic sunset in Aruba. Then, the pair set out to plan their dream wedding back in their beloved hometown of Philadelphia.

As they began planning, they set out to have a traditional American celebration and an Ethiopian cultural reception called a “Melse.” After going on their second date to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, they knew it’d make for the perfect wedding venue. When we first met with Rahel and Marcel, they told us there was nothing more iconic in Philadelphia than the Art Museum, and we couldn’t agree more!

Their Philadelphia Museum of Art Wedding Ceremony

Rahel and Marcel exchanged vows under a floral arch in the breathtaking Great Stair Hall, surrounded by the museum’s stunning Art Deco architecture. We leaned into a traditional and clean design with a crimson, cranberry, and plum color scheme. The grand staircase and high ceilings provided an elegant, timeless backdrop for their traditional American celebration, which was attended by 200 of their closest friends and family.

Their Philadelphia Museum of Art Wedding Reception

As guests arrived at the reception in the Great Stair Hall Balcony, they were greeted by gorgeous surroundings including tapestries and more Art Deco beauty. The menu featured an array of delectable offerings, from tropical mahi-mahi to artisan short ribs, complemented by an array of tempting hors d’oeuvres.

Throughout the evening, Rahel and Marcel seamlessly wove in nods to their backgrounds, from Rahel’s Ethiopian roots to Marcel’s membership in the historic Black fraternity Kappa Alpha Psi. The couple took pictures in the museum galleries wearing an opulent robe called a kaba; an Ethiopian cultural symbol of grace, royalty, and luxury, traditionally worn only during the finest of occasions. The bride was serenaded by the groom and his fraternity brothers with the Kappa Sweetheart song.

To honor their shared cultures, the newlyweds then hosted a vibrant Ethiopian “Melse” reception the following day, complete with delicious cuisine and lively dancing, attended by 500 loved ones.

Want to see more of Rahel and Marcel’s wonderful day? Check out the recent exclusive People Magazine feature on their wedding! Plus, don’t miss their beautiful wedding video.

Rahel and Marcel’s Philadelphia Museum of Art wedding and traditional Ethiopian Melse were truly unforgettable events, blending timeless elegance and vibrant cultural traditions. We were thrilled to bring their vision to life and create a weekend that will be remembered for years to come by all who attended.

Your Philadelphia Museum of Art Wedding Planner

Are you dreaming of your own Philadelphia Museum of Art wedding? As preferred wedding planners at this iconic venue, we’d love to plan your once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Get in touch today to learn more about our wedding planning services!