Pennsylvania is one of only a handful of US states where partners can "self-unite"; all that you need is a PA marriage license and two witnesses.

Colorful photograph of partners laughing in front of a historic home in Philly at their self uniting civil union.

ALL my couples are my favorite, but Jax + Alex might just be my FAVORITE favorite <3 Also, look at the gorgeous architectural details on this historic home in Philly! J+A self united in a small intimate civil union ceremony at the home of their close friends, who also host the monthly game night for their whole crew, or as J+A call them, their "chosen family".

The self uniting marriage practice in Philly actually originates from historic Quaker wedding traditions, but is a great option for secular couples or persons from all backgrounds (ie: you don't need to be a Quaker).

Black and white candid photograph of friends celebrating a self uniting civil union ceremony in Philly PA.
Partners exchanging handwritten personal vows during self uniting marriage ceremony in Philadelphia.
Candid laughter in a black and white photograph taken by Adrienne Catanese at a civil union in Pennsylvania.
Black and white portrait of a Philly couple exchanging marriage vows in a self uniting ceremony.
Black and white ceremony photography during vow exchange in civil union ceremony.
A couple holds hands during their self uniting wedding ceremony in Philadelphia the home of historic Quaker weddings.
Candid monochrome wedding photograph of couple laughing during their elopement ceremony in a private home in Philly.
Full color candid photograph of a couple signing their Pennsylvania marriage license during a self uniting ceremony.
One partner signs the marriage license while the other partner laughs and celebrates with their friends and witnesses.
A witness signs the marriage license during an intimate civil union ceremony in Philly.
Color portrait of two witnesses signing a Pennsylvania marriage license as a legal requirement for self uniting ceremony
Black and white candid photograph of guests raising their glasses making a toast to the happy couple at civil union.
Colorful flatlay wedding photograph of Pennsylvania marriage license signed by self uniting couple and witnesses.

The best part: this Philly self uniting civil union ceremony (or JAWN, as J+A called it in true Philly spirit) is just PART ONE of J+A's union...they are also celebrating soon in a second Long Island NY event, so stay tuned!

Candid colorful portrait of Philly couple sharing an intimate touch after their civil union ceremony.

I CAN'T EVEN with these two sweethearts. SO. MUCH. LOVE.