With their first date at The Rittenhouse Hotel over a decade ago, Stephanie Betzler and Ethan Soodak had a full-circle moment as they said “I do” at the very same spot.
The Rittenhouse Hotel is a meaningful place for Stephanie and Ethan
Ethan Soodak and Stephanie Betzler had their first date at The Rittenhouse Hotel over a decade ago and got engaged there after celebrating their eighth anniversary—so it was only fitting that the couple say “I do” at the very same spot this past June. “We return every year on the anniversary of our first date,” says Stephanie, who wore a stunning Monique Lhuillier gown and Manolo Blahnik heels for the walk down the aisle. “Our venue was such a special choice for us as we have so much history with it.” Chef Jon Cichon worked with the pair to create a special menu for the big day—concocting exquisite dishes like saffron arancini and foie gras passed hors d’oeuvres (a favorite of the couple), dry-aged duck and coffee-crusted pork tenderloin. White and cream calla lilies, orchids, roses and hydrangeas were elegantly scattered throughout the ballroom to achieve a sophisticated, chic yet modern vibe. Before jetting off to a honeymoon in Greece, the bride changed into a sparkly minidress and celebrated with an afterparty (also in The Rittenhouse) including Philly cheesesteaks, soft pretzels and lots of glow sticks.
The List
Ceremony & Reception The Rittenhouse Hotel, rittenhousehotel.com
Bride’s Gown Monique Lhuillier, moniquelhuillier.com
Bride’s Shoes Manolo Blahnik, manoloblahnik.com
Bride’s Veil Monique Lhuillier, moniquelhuillier.com
Bride’s Hair & Makeup Hair: Dylan Jarrett; Makeup: Nikki Chung, both from Rittenhouse Salon & Spa
Groom’s Tux Suit Supply, suitsupply.com
Groom’s Shoes Christian Louboutin, christianlouboutin.com
Groom’s Watch Longines, Tourneau, King of Prussia, longines.com
Rings Leo Ingwer, leoingwer.com
Florals Egan Arranged, eganrittenhouse.com
Catering & Cake The Rittenhouse Hotel, rittenhousehotel.com
Invitations Nicole Anderson Paper Co.
Rentals & Linens Egan Arranged, eganrittenhouse.com
Lighting Egan Arranged, eganrittenhouse.com
Entertainment Don Eaton Band, doneaton.com
Photography by: Alison Conklin Photography
