Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens (PMG) is an immersive mixed media art environment that is completely covered with mosaics. The creator, Isaiah Zagar, used handmade tiles, bottles, bicycle wheels, mirror, and international folk art to chronicle his life and influences. The space is made up of two indoor galleries and a bi-level outdoor sculpture garden. As a nonprofit museum, PMG celebrates art in its many forms through community outreach, public programs, hands-on activities, exhibitions, and tours. We welcome everyone to explore the space and embrace the possibility of self-expression. We're also lucky to be able to host private rentals in our space, which gives people a chance to connect with the art in a very special way.
Nate + Kiki's Wedding
We have all kinds of events in our space - from weddings to birthday parties. One of my favorite events still to this day is one of the first weddings I worked way back on an October evening in 2012. I had only been running PMG's private rental program on my own for less than a year, but this one sticks out in my brain. The couple, Nate and Kiki, were so lovely and in love, and they really took our unique venue and made it their own.
It was a small wedding of around 40 attendees, which gave things a very intimate feel. For decor they had a dozen or so oversize white balloons around the space - coupled with simple black & white linens and floral arrangements. Their decor didn't compete with our very busy background, but complimented it nicely and allowed their personalities to shine in other ways.
The bride walked down the aisle to "My Body's a Zombie for You" by Ryan Gosling's band, Dead Man's Bones, which pretty much cemented my adoration for this couple. Their ceremony took place in our "huppa" area - a place set back from the street underneath a carved wooden structure from Bali. The warm glow of a Warren Muller chandelier provided an extra romantic feel.
Once the ceremony was over, the whole group sat down family-style at one long table in our courtyard space. There, Birchtree Catering (one of our favorite catering companies) served up an amazing meal of breakfast foods to the guests. Franklin Fountain was there with their ice cream cart for dessert - the perfect sweet treat.
Nate, Kiki, and their guests spent the evening enjoying drinks and dancing under the lights.
The ended the evening with a magical sparkler send-off. Everything was so simple, elegant, and full of love. You could tell that everyone who attended was so supportive and happy for the couple, and that Nate and Kiki were so excited to be starting this new adventure together.
We have a very unique space, which seems to provide inspiration and encourage creativity in everyone who enters. We've been so lucky to have so many amazing events here. Each one is so different and renters always find a way to include their own touches. I feel honored to have been a part of so many people's special days, and I look forward to many more!
Photography: Matthew Moore Photography
Venue: Philadelphia's Magic Gardens