A Romantic Philadelphia Ballroom Wedding

Jennifer and David met in April 2013 through a mutual best friend. They went on their first date on October 26, 2013, and became an official couple on November 29, 2013. Five years later, and this lovely pair married at The Regal Ballroom in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Check out their special day, captured by Heidi Roland Photography.

Bride's full name, age, and occupation: Jennifer C. Rivers, 38, Educator

Groom's full name, age, and occupation: David L. Rivers II, 42, Finance

Place of residence: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Wedding date: April 28, 2018

Wedding location: The Regal Ballroom, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Wedding theme: An Evening of Elegant Romance

Honeymoon Destination: Lucea, Jamaica

Engagement story:

On November 24, 2016, we traveled to Los Angeles, California with my best friend and his mother to celebrate Thanksgiving and my nephew’s birthday. After my dad blessed the meal, David got down on one knee, with a ring similar to the one he designed almost a year before, and asked me to marry him. I had no idea that he was going to do that. He got me good! It was a blessing to be able to share that moment with his mother, my family and a room full of friends.

From the Bride:

I woke up on the day of my wedding excited. After months of planning, I could not believe that the day had finally come. I almost didn’t know what to do. I was just so happy! Thank goodness for my Maid of Honor, Matron of Honor, bridesmaids and phenomenal coordinator. They made sure I was awake and had plenty to eat. All of my vendors were on time and had everything they needed, so I could relax and enjoy the experience.

From the Groom:

My experience was amazing. The day began with my nephew and me at the barbershop and breakfast with my oldest friend and groomsmen. I was relaxed and able to enjoy time as we gathered to travel to the church. My greatest memories from that day were of my wife walking down the aisle and the bridal party photos in Fairmount Park. I felt nervous and proud that day.

What makes your love special?

Family, faith and all of the challenges we experienced together prior to marriage make our love special. Six months prior to our wedding, David was diagnosed with Guillain Barre Syndrome, a rare autoimmune disease that causes muscle weakness, fatigue, and respiratory issues, which can lead to paralysis. He was hospitalized for two weeks and spent another two weeks undergoing intense physical therapy so he could learn to walk and regain the use of his hands. His time in the hospital, in rehab and subsequent weeks that he spent at home recovering was stressful, but strengthened our bond and gave us a greater appreciation for our family and extended village.

It also deepened our faith and led us to find a church home. We were both raised in the church and had accepted Christ as our lord and savior, but were not regularly attending together. Recognizing the covenant commitment that we were getting ready to take before God, family and our village, we were led to finding a church where we could worship together. On Easter Sunday, we took the Right Hand of Fellowship as members of the Salem Baptist Church.

Your most memorable moment:

Oh my! Hmm… There were so many! For me, it would be me walking down the aisle with my dad. When I entered the church sanctuary, I could remember being excited and nervous. Being with my dad just seemed to make everything better.

Wedding song:

“You and I” by John Legend.

Favorite wedding detail:

The V Shayne Frederick Quartet.

What are you most looking forward to as a married couple?

We’re looking forward to building a life together and to raising children. We know that both will be an adventure, but as long as we remain grounded in our faith and commit to taking time to nurture our relationship, there isn’t anything that we can’t face together.

Advice for a Bride and Groom on their wedding day:

There will be things that come up the day of your wedding that may upset you. Instead of trying the fix it or address the issue, allow your coordinator, bridal party or whoever you’ve designated as your go-to person to take charge and handle it.

Congratulations to the happy couple! We wish you many years of wedded bliss!