Everything You Need to Know About Hosting a Parade Wedding in Fishtown
Get your fancy walking shoes ready!
Illustration depicting a parade wedding in Fishtown by Melissa McFeeters
Why stay in one place on your Big Day? Here, Nicole Hutnyk of event-planning and paper-goods biz Rabbit Rabbit Crew shares how (and where!) to host an intimate parade wedding in Fishtown. Keep in mind that these are just a few of the many locations in the neighborhood, and your hit list can vary based on your preferences. Use this as your guide while working with your planner to build-your-own shindig.
Choose a Home Base
Erin Legg and Brian Forrest’s 2018 celebration included getting ready prep at Wm. Mulherin’s Sons / Photograph by Peach Plum Pear
With four hotel rooms — plus a full restaurant and bar — Wm. Mulherin’s Sons is a central location for you and your guests to stay and even refresh between each stop on your route, says Hutnyk.
Say “I Do”
Head to the Matchbook, a former vacant lot at Front and Coral streets that the team at True Hand Society (a creative studio offering graphic design and custom tattoos) has transformed into a celebration spot for small groups. Rabbit Rabbit Crew’s new soup-to-nuts Going Steady at the Matchbook concept curates the ceremony and entire event experience.
Savor Sips and Apps
Hutnyk recommends choosing a spot with a full cocktail program and a memorable atmosphere. Some eateries, she notes, will charge based on consumption for a shorter affair. (Plan for an hour and a half, tops.) Try the new Middle Child Clubhouse: Book a 12-person table where you’ll snack on a six-foot hoagie and sip martinis.
Consider Dinner
If a sit-down affair is your speed, Hutnyk advises a meal that’s small to medium in size, to keep things moving and prevent guests from tapping out early. Tuck into saucy pasta at Murph’s Bar, which can host a private party (up to 13) outside.
Work in Entertainment
Skip your formal dinner altogether and go all-in for playtime at Garage. Guests can bring their choice of food (pick up a pie from neighbor Pizzeria Beddia on your way over, or have Pom Pom deliver vegan comfort food through the Live Better app), and the Skee-Ball space is fun for throwback gaming.
Don’t Skimp on Late-Night Treats
Simply walk over to Weckerly’s for classic scoops and seasonal ice-cream sammies. Later, swing by Bottle Bar East for a low-key nightcap of beer and wine before heading back to the hotel.
Prep for Photos
Natasha Lopez and Lance Arrington’s 2019 parade wedding included iconic photos in the rain / Photograph by Brittney Raine Photography
Fishtown’s loaded with murals and hidden spots, so plan where to pause for pictures. A Hutnyk favorite? At the corner near the ivy-clad wall behind Materials Conservation Co.
Keep it Cozy
Hutnyk suggests whittling your guest list to 10 to 20 to ensure that no one drops off midway through and that you can actively engage while strolling from spot to spot.
Stay on Schedule
Photograph by Peach Plum Pear
Aim for a four-to-five-hour affair, so guests are interested from start to finish, and choose a weekday for more availability. A digital itinerary will ensure that guests are informed ahead of time.
Originally published as “A Moveable Feast” in the Winter/Spring 2022 issue of Philadelphia Wedding.
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