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Welcome to 217 Photography

217, many assume this number represents an address, birth date or anniversary, however 217 symbolizes so much more. Two-seventeen has long been in my wife, Dawn's, family history. Here is her story:

The sentiment behind 217 originated over 55 years ago, when my mother, Shirley Haughton was a little girl. Shirley was the youngest of eight children, who idolized her older sister Ella May. Whenever Shirley told Ella May how much she loved her, Ella May responded jokingly "How much?" As little sisters often do, Shirley tried to impress Ella May by telling her the largest number she could think of, "Two Hundred and Seventeen." This quickly became a game the two sisters played over and over again. Shirley would tell Ella May she loved her two hundred and seventeen meaning the largest amount known to her little heart. To this day, Shirley and Ella May who are in their sixties and seventies, respectfully, sign every card & letter and conclude every conversation with "I love you, 217".

As far back as I can remember my mom has told my sister, Gina, and I that she loves us 217. I don't think we ever questioned or asked what it meant. We knew intrinsically the weight 217 carried when our mom said it. 217 was the greatest amount of love possible and nothing could be more than that love she felt for us. We have continued 217 as a sentiment in our own lives and families. You will see 217 written on every birthday card, holiday card, and letter to family and close friends. Pete and I even have 217 engraved on our wedding bands. There is no better way for us to express respect, commitment and unconditional love than those three numbers.

The women of 217 are honored that it's meaning lives on through Pete's photography in capturing the images of unconditional love at it's most intimate and celebrated moments. We are excited to incorporate the meaning of 217 into our family's business. We hope to share our passion and love of photography with you and your family.

Dawn & Pete Malone

Nov 23 2009

Marisa & Taylan’s Wedding at The Colonial Dames House

Posted in Wedding Photos

Marisa & Taylan’s wedding at The Colonial Dames House in Philadelphia was very special to Dawn and I as Marisa & Taylan are some of our closest friends. I was very honored and excited that they asked me to photograph their wedding. Marisa and Dawn have been best friends for more than a decade. Marisa was a bridesmaid in our wedding last July and Dawn was able to return the favor to Marisa as her lone wedding party attendant AND ring bearer! Taylan’s family came all the way to Philadelphia from Turkey for the celebration. They were able to spend a few days in town with some day trips to New York City mixed in as well. It was a pleasure to meet all of the out of town guests. It was quite a mix of cultures on the wedding day too. There was obviously the American traditions, Marisa’s family being from Italy brought some Italian traditions and of course Taylayn’s family added some Turkish wedding traditions and delicious Turkish Delights. Marisa & Taylan had a beautiful October day to celebrate their wedding. Although I was working, I was able to meet all of their family members, enjoy the reception with my wife (and ring bearer for the day) Dawn as well as my in-law’s, Shirley & Floyd. Thank you for allowing me to document your day Marisa & Taylan. Congratulations. We love you both!

The wedding rings with the inscription in Turkish meaning, “My Baby”.

a philadelphia wedding at colonial dames

Taylan’s proud mama!

wedding photos at philadelphia's colonial dames

And my lovely wife posing for the camera. Thanks Babe.

a wedding at the colonial dames in philadelphia

This one’s for you, Marisa. You know why.

philadelphia wedding pictures at colonial dames

colonial dames wedding reception pictures

Mrs. Russo looked so pretty, she deserved her own portrait too.

wedding reception photos at colonial dames

We ran into Marsha & Craig on the street. They were both 92 years old and had been married for over 60 years! This was definitely a good sign, running into these two as we headed to Marisa & Taylan’s wedding.

Marisa’s good friend, Mona officiated the ceremony.

Look how good a ring bearer my wife was! I’m so proud of you, Baby. Good job!

Husband and Wife!

Marisa was all about the details. There was a special design theme on these place-cards that matched perfectly to the wedding invitations.

More Details…These bags of candy covered, almonds were hand threaded by Marisa’s dad with orange ribbon the evening before the wedding. The card on each bag says “Thank You” in Italian and in Turkish. Notice how blue and orange match the place-cards, which also match the flower vases and flowers on each table. You got to coordinate!

Dawn’s parents and my wonderful in-laws, Shirley (Gammy) and Floyd.

Taylan’s sister gave a very nice toast…all in English I might add.

Gammy gettin’ down. Gammy is THE woman behind “217″. She’s the one who started it all. See how, in the “About” link at the top of this page.

Dawn and our good friend, Christina. Even though Christina ditched our wedding, it was good to see that she was able to make it to Marisa & Taylan’s celebration. Oh, yes I did, Christina!!