About Philadelphia
Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania and serves as its cultural and economic hub. Founded in 1682 by William Penn, Philadelphia is one of the oldest cities in the United States. Also known as Philly or The City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia is a major global city with a population of more than 1.5 million people. It is home to several iconic landmarks such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Organizing receptions in Philadelphia can be a great benefit for any event or organization due to its many unique venues available for rent. From penthouses to urban lofts and diverse event spaces, with its broad array of offerings, guests can enjoy a variety of activities during their stay that will keep them busy and entertained throughout the event.
Reception Options in Philadelphia
- Furniture rental
Whether you are planning a large corporate event or an intimate gathering, furniture rental is a great option to add style and comfort to your event. Many companies offer a variety of styles and options for rent, from classic wooden chairs and tables to more modern styles in different materials like acrylic, metal, or even plastic.
- Catering
Another essential part of any successful reception is food! Catering services typically include everything from the food itself to serving dishes and utensils, so it's easy (and delicious) to simply relax and enjoy the company of your guests without having to worry about the food.
- Flowers
One element that brings your whole event together is beautiful flowers, whether they are centerpieces on each table at a reception or fresh flower petals scattered across the aisle at a wedding ceremony. Many florists offer decor services as well and can help create custom arrangements in all sorts of styles that fit with the type of event you are planning.
Reception Vendors in Philadelphia
- Sitting Pretty Event Rental
Established in 2016, it is your one-stop shop for tables, chairs, linens & photo booth needs! Because Sitting Pretty Tables & Chairs Rental provides top-tier quality service, they have built a loyal customer base and excellent reputation. The staff is always understanding and accommodating, so you can be confident that your event will go great! Sitting Pretty has the right supplies and staff to make sure your event, big or small, goes off without a hitch.
- Old City Flowers
At Old City Flowers, they take pride in their work as floral designers. They carry a wide selection of beautiful blooms, both seasonal and tropical, and they're happy to pay close attention to your needs, whether you're looking for a fresh bunch of cut flowers or a unique design for an event. They've been in business since 2012, and in that time they've built a reputation for excellence. The team would be delighted to help with any floral arrangements you need for your upcoming reception, no matter the size.
- A.V. Rental Services
Here at A/V Equipment Rentals, they specialize in audio-visual equipment, stage, and staging platform rentals. The company has a wide selection of equipment to choose from, and its knowledgeable staff is always on hand to help you find the perfect piece for your needs. In addition to their equipment rentals, A/V Equipment Rentals also offers live streaming and video production services. Their team has years of experience in live streaming and video production.
Pros and Cons of Reception Events in Philadelphia
For anyone organizing a reception event, the process can be both thrilling and anxiety-provoking. Philadelphia is an ideal destination for receptions, due to its proximity and inviting ambiance; yet several drawbacks should be considered before your final decision. Here's a breakdown of some pros and cons when deciding whether or not Philadelphia is suitable for your celebration.
Advantages
- There are many options when it comes to reception venues in Philadelphia, such as gardens, private homes, creative studios, and more. This means that you can easily find a venue that matches your needs and budget.
- Receptions are typically well-organized events with professional vendors like caterers, florists, and audio/visual companies. This means that you can rest assured that your event will run smoothly and look great.
- These gatherings are typically larger with a wide range of guests, so they offer the opportunity to socialize and network with people from all walks of life.
Disadvantages
- The high demand for reception venues in Philadelphia can lead to high prices, particularly during popular wedding season.
- The size and complexity of receptions may make it difficult to manage all the various aspects involved, such as food service, floral arrangements, and audio/visual equipment.
- There is often a lot of pressure to host a memorable reception, which can lead to added stress and anxiety. This may be especially true if you are relying on the event to generate business opportunities or other professional connections.
Tips on How to Organize Reception Events in Philadelphia
When it comes to throwing a beautiful reception or another event, Philadelphia's rich history and abundance of stunning venues make it an ideal choice. To ensure your celebration in the City of Brotherly Love is nothing short of perfect, here are some helpful tips to get you started:
- Before anything else, it is essential to pick the perfect place for your occasion. Philadelphia offers an immense variety of choices — from grand spaces to rustic country houses. No matter what you want or how much you are willing to spend, there will surely be a venue tailored just right for your special day.
- As you move forward in the event planning process, it's time to craft your guest list. Choosing who will attend can be difficult but needs careful consideration — only invite those whom you know would truly appreciate or enjoy the occasion. An overcrowded gathering is never a good experience for anyone!
- Now it's time to get creative with the details. As you construct your reception menu, don't be afraid to think outside of the box and offer something unique! Whether it's a signature cocktail or interactive entertainment, there are endless ways to make sure that your guests remember this occasion for years to come.
Famous Locations in Philadelphia
- Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
Isaiah Zagar has been a fixture on South Street in Philadelphia since the 1960s, and his colorful mosaics can be found all around the city. Now, visitors can see his work on display at the Magic Gardens, a fantasy-like art showplace that is dedicated to preserving Zagar's mosaics. The Magic Gardens is open to the public for tours and mosaic workshops, and it welcomes thousands of people annually. The Magic Gardens is an excellent way to experience Zagar's work and learn more about his incredible contribution to the city of Philadelphia.
- Morris Arboretum
The Morris Arboretum is one of the best places to enjoy nature in Philadelphia. This Chestnut Hill neighborhood oasis provides an ever-changing landscape of vibrant gardens, towering trees, and captivating fountains. Out on a Limb, an Arboretum exhibit that has won multiple awards, allows visitors to take a walk 50 feet up into treetops. No climbing is necessary for the experience. The Garden Railway is another highlight of the Arboretum, featuring a miniature world with model trains on a quarter-mile track.
- Dilworth Park
The square in front of Philadelphia's City Hall was originally designed by William Penn to be a gathering place for all citizens. However, over time, the square became neglected and fell into disrepair. In 2014, the city decided to redesign the space, and the results are truly impressive. The new western-facing front yard is a modern and welcoming outdoor space that has something for everyone. There are tree groves, benches, and cafes for people to relax and enjoy the outdoors. For the fitness enthusiast, we have a large programmable fountain that can be switched into an ice rink in the winter or a roller rink come summer.