Historic Philadelphia Bank Beckons Brides
The Second Bank of the United States is best known as a neighbor to some higher-profile historic Philadelphia attractions like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. The Greek Revival-style bank is a sight all to itself, with architecture best described as regal with sweeping steps and high columns. According to the Morning Call, the Bank “served as the nation’s financial hub, beginning in 1816 under a 20-year charter. It was designed by architect William Strickland, who based the design on the Parthenon. Construction finished around 1824.” It is the current home of the “People of Independence” exhibit, which showcases portraits of 18th and 19th century American leaders, including several presidents. But the Second Bank is gaining a reputation as something else: a venue for wedding photographs. Brides are flocking to the Second Bank in droves, apparently.
A photographer arranges a bride’s wedding dress as they prepare for a shoot at the Second Bank of the United States, a popular venue for wedding photography.
The wedding photography trade is so brisk that the city has started issuing permits for brides and grooms to be photographed at the Second Bank. As per the Morning Call, Independence National Historical Park has issued more than a dozen wedding shoot permits at the bank just for the month of June, its busiest month for wedding shoots. Around 400 permits were issued last year, says park ranger Adam Duncan. The number of actual wedding photoshoots that took place there is certainly higher, since not all couples realize that the Bank is part of a national park and that permits are required.
The Morning Call documented one couple being photographed at the Second Bank, Melissa Andresko, 41, and her husband Ross Mabon, 43. The pair had an old-Hollywood themed wedding, and found the steps of the Bank to be perfect for their photographs. Another couple, the Dalys of Vineland, N.J., had their photos taken at the bank instead of on the “Rocky steps” of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which husband Michael was pushing for.
