On January 19, Temple University hosted nonprofit Global Citizen’s 31st annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service regional signature project. The morning featured hands-on service activities, children’s programming, a health and wellness fair, and a job fair, running from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
“The key to this is that this is much more than a birthday celebration,” he said. “It’s an opportunity for everyone to embrace Dr. King’s legacy of civil rights and social justice.”
The opening ceremony included remarks from nine speakers, among them Temple President John Fry,Global Citizen President Todd Bernstein, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, and Kelly Munson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Independence Blue Cross, setting the tone for a day dedicated to service, equity, and community impact.
A Home Depot assistant, Steve Fera, Independence Blue Cross, Gov Shapiro and Mayor Cherelle L Parker building a book shelf to be placed in a Philadelphia School. (in foreground Kelly Munson, IBX)
Business leaders and politicians took part in a team building competition with the construction of Book Arks a self-standing, free library which will be distributed to underserved Philadelphia communities.
Also taking part in the friendly team building competition was Seth Bluestein – Philadelphia City Commissioners, Kevin J. Bethel. Police Commissioner, Joseph G. Cacchione, MD, CEO of Jefferson Health and Thomas Jefferson University and Keith Leaphart, Chief Health Equity and Community Impact Officer, who was emcee of the building
event, David Vahos, Executive Director of PECO and others.
Steve Fera is executive vice president of Public Affairs and president of Government Markets at Independence Blue Cross, Kelly Munson is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Independence Blue Cross, Governor Josh Shapiro and Mayor Cherelle L Parker with their completed Book Ark. It took them about 30 minutes to build
Michael Harris, Phillies and the legendary Jane Golden, Executive Director of Mural Arts. Todd Burnstein paid a nice tribute to Jane, as she enters her final year leading the life changing program which has established Philadelphia as the City with the most Murals.
The gym buzzed with volunteers, attendees, and honored guests, framed by MLK Day banners lining the walls — part of a longstanding collaboration between Mural Arts and Global Citizen that pairs two artists with four Philadelphia-area schools each year to create four original mural panels.
PHENND-Philadelphia Higher Education Network for Neighborhood Development – Eden, Addie and Kene
Temple University hosted the event for the first time since 2009, moving it from its longtime home at Girard College to Pearson/McGonigle Hall on Temple’s campus.
Over the past 31 years, more than 2.7 million people have participated in Philadelphia’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service — the largest MLK service day in the nation. Longtime organizer Todd Bernstein said the scale of participation is a clear reflection of the program’s lasting impact on the community.
Thank you to the volunteers and to community-minded organizations like Independence Blue Cross, Jefferson Health, and PECO for their continued investment in service and civic engagement across Philadelphia. It’s a privilege to document these events for them.
Last week I attended a press conference where Mayor Cherelle L Parker and the Office of Clean and Green Initiatives in partnership with Mural Arts Philadelphia and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, announced the launch of Gateways to Philadelphia, an anti-graffiti and highway beautification initiative supporting the Mayor’s goal of making Philadelphia the safest, cleanest, and greenest big city ahead of America’s 250th birthday.
This is going to be a very exciting project, one which will benefit Philadelphia well beyond 2026. Years ago there was a beautiful mural along this wall, but during the pandemic it became a magnet for graffiti. “Our goal is not just to clean up but to transform these spaces,” said Carlton Williams, Director, Office of Clean and Green Initiatives
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, City of Philadelphia, Secretary of Transportation Michael B. Carroll, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Chief Strategy and Partnership Officer Trish Wellenbach, City of Philadelphia, Senior Vice President Donna Frisby-Greenwood, The Pew Charitable Trusts, Director Carlton Williams, Office of Clean and Green Initiatives, President Matt Rader, Pennsylvania Horticultural Society and Founder and Executive Director Jane Golden, Mural Arts Philadelphia
Who’s in the guest gallery: The guests watching the press conference were muralists and employees who have been working on the projects. I also spotted Tyrone Dixon, 2026 Deputy Director of Philadelphia, and Michael Newmuis, Philly Director of 2026 as well as Manny Smith, the Mayor’s First Deputy Director of Communications, Mayor’s Office
Michael B. Carroll, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and Mayor Cherelle L Parker unveil the 30th Street Station walls, medians and ramps.
“This year, Pennsylvania is expecting more than 209 million visitors,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “Under Governor Shapiro’s leadership, we’re hard at work making sure the Commonwealth is ready for folks across the world to visit and celebrate Pennsylvania’s integral role in the founding of our country 250 years ago. Our highways are critical entry point to the region, and we’re excited to work with the City of Philadelphia and our other partners to give visitors a warm welcome to Philadelphia.”
“This project reflects a shared vision for transforming Philadelphia’s most visible spaces expanding on PHS’s long-time commitment to making our gateways and public spaces beautiful,” said Matt Rader, President of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. “This spring and for years to come, Philadelphians and visitors alike will experience the impact of that vision. With more than 85 trees, 500 shrubs, nearly 2,700 ornamental grasses, and over 96,000 bulbs planted, this holistic effort brings partners together around a common goal and creates a landscape that is greener, more resilient, and welcoming to everyone who enters the city.”
The targeted list of priority locations includes:
26th Street Gateway at Penrose Avenue
South Street Bridge, walls, medians and on/off-ramps
30th Street Station walls, medians and ramps
I-76 and I-676 interchange at 15th and 16th Streets and Vine Street
I-76 and I-676 interchange at 6th and 8th Streets and Callowhill/Vine Streets
I-76 and I-95 interchange at 2nd and 3rd Streets and Callowhill/Vine Streets
CSX/Amtrak wall at Spring Garden Street
The work started last fall, and will be complete this spring.
Happy New Year my people!! People always fret over how long can they wish each other Happy New Year!! It’s how ever long you feel comfortable in doing it. I usually say it all month long as I see people for the first time.
One New Year’s Eve Michael Newmuis and I stopped by the Penn’s Landing waterfront to say hello to Joe Forkin, Delaware River Waterfront President. Thank him for the fantastic job he does every year. It’s really such a treat for Philly to have the rink, and lodges along Penns Landing. We also caught the 6pm fireworks show, featuring three barges this year instead of one. It was spectacular. It’s become a tradition for my Mike, Michael, Kevin and I.
Lady B, Mayor Cherelle L Parker and Patty Jackson
Then we headed over to the parkway, where The City of Philadelphia and Mayor Cherelle L. Parker presented a free New Year’s Eve concert and fireworks spectacular, ushering in the countdown to America’s 250th birthday.
The evening featured Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and two-time Grammy Award–winning hip-hop icon LL COOL J (an everyone wants to know how they can get a hold of this fantastic jacket),
with special guests Philadelphia’s own DJ Jazzy Jeff sporting another awesome jacket, Emmy Award–winning music director and Grammy Award–winning writer Adam Blackstone, hard rockers Dorothy, and Technician The DJ. Produced by Scott Mirkin
I saw today the City was disposing their holiday tree, I should ask them what they’re doing with it. You can recycle yours in various neighborhoods, but here is the info for the Fairmount area.
Happy Birthday to Philly’s own Top Chef Jen Carroll. I have heard so many wonderful things about Dinner at Jen’s & Billy’s. This year I am going to make a resy. Here’s their Instagram with all the info.
Just popping on to say hi. I still have a few fabulous parties from 2025 that deserve some love, and I’ll be sharing those shortly. Then it’s full speed ahead into 2026.
I’ll admit, the sheer number of events and experiences ahead feels a bit overwhelming—in the best possible way. It’s exciting to see how fully Philadelphia has come into its own. Even late-night dining is back.
I’ll be putting together a list next week of spots open late for those after-hours bites, which means no more midnight drives to Live Casino for a slice, as convenient as that 2 a.m. option has been in the past.
As I enter my 19th year chronicling Philadelphia’s social scene, I’m struck by how much the city has changed. Philadelphia was once a quieter town socially, with one or two events a month that brought people together.
Mohamad Aldiab, Matt Carter, Lexie Norcross, Stephanie and Hal Donnelly at the Cooper Hospital Red Hot Gala
Today, especially during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, the calendar is filled almost daily with gatherings that reflect a city fully in its stride.
Sabir Peele, Amanda St Paul, Dhruvi Bav, Ayres Chenault, and Tulon Cork at the Opening of Clik Cafe at Comcast Center
In 2025, I was grateful to capture so many moments that reflected Philadelphia’s creativity, generosity, and growing confidence. The events featured here are not ranked and they represent just a snapshot of more than 200 gatherings and 65,000 photos taken this year. At their core, these celebrations are fundraisers, where a ticket does more than grant entry—it helps carry each organization’s mission well beyond the night itself.
Patricia “Trish” Wellenbach and Larry McMichael, partner at Dilworth heading to the dance floor at the Rittenhouse Square Ball in June 2025
Every year, Friends of Rittenhouse Square host a fantastic black-tie gala to raise funds for the care and preservation of Rittenhouse Square, one of the city’s most beloved green spaces. The evening brings together Philadelphia’s civic and cultural leaders for a night filled with beautiful design, lively dancing, and a shared commitment to keeping this iconic park thriving. A heartfelt congratulations to this year’s honoree, Wendy Rosen, whose decades of service, leadership, and unwavering advocacy continue to leave a lasting mark on the city. Tickets may be top tier at $1,000 a person—but have you seen the Square lately? It’s absolutely beautiful, and the event sells out yearly.
The Philadelphia Ballet Spring Festival
Last spring, the Philadelphia Ballet welcomed guests back to the beautiful Red Rose Farm in Villanova for its 6th Annual Spring Festival, graciously hosted at the home of Board Chairman David F. Hoffman.
The festival unfolded over two events: a Thursday night benefit featuring cocktails, an award presentation, an outdoor performance, and dinner $1200 pp; and a Saturday picnic where guests brought blankets, wine, and friends to enjoy ballet on the lawn. $300 for a party of 4. (prices for 2026)
Both gatherings offered a beautiful setting to experience live performance while supporting the Ballet’s work on stage and in the community.
When I worked as a paralegal at 1101 Market Street and lived at 17th and Callowhill, I spent years walking through Reading Terminal Market, grabbing breakfast, passing through between errands, and soaking in the daily rhythm of one of Philadelphia’s most iconic spaces. Those memories have stayed with me.
When Party for the Market was introduced, I was thrilled. The idea of enjoying so many favorite foods in one night, after hours, felt like a love letter to the Market itself. What I discovered was even better: a fun, festive evening filled with dancing, reconnecting with friends, and experiencing this historic landmark in an entirely new way. $300
Held after hours, the Market is transformed into a lively, immersive celebration that brings together Philadelphia’s food community, civic leaders, and longtime supporters. The event supports the Market’s strategic plan, Feeding Philly’s Heart and Soul, and serves as its largest annual fundraiser. Year after year, it sells out at 1,500 guests—yet it never feels crowded. – This year Opera Philadelphia held their gala at the RTM and it was also a lot of fun. You really must attend an opera performance. Affordable, enjoyable.
Sleeper event of the year. The Franklin Institute Gala always lands on the same night as another client event, The Breakthrough Gala, so I usually stop into FI for cocktails before heading to Breakthrough. This year, I did the opposite—and I’m glad I did.
Arriving later revealed a beautifully orchestrated experience: dinner served throughout the museum on every floor, reminiscent of the Academy Ball when it transformed the entire Bellevue. Each space was thoughtfully decorated, followed by dancing and dessert on the main floor, where the food court normally sits. It was a standout night, very fun. $1000
Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh visited Philadelphia in May 2025 to rededicate the Bicentennial Bell at its new home in the Benjamin Rush Garden. The bell, a gift from his mother Queen Elizabeth II to the United States for the 1976 Bicentennial, was cast by the same foundry as the Liberty Bell and had remained in storage for years. Its rededication now stands as a powerful symbol of the enduring friendship between the U.S. and Great Britain, while also helping launch preparations for America’s 2026 Semiquincentennial.
In the evening their was a gala dinner for the prince at the Downtown Club. Before guests sat, Prince Edward greeted those in attendance. PS Prince Edward doesn’t like posed photos, but he was very accommodating with candids.
One of the most popular—and most diverse—events at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in recent years was Raheem Mannying’sArtish, a 21+ cocktail party celebrating great art, great music, and great people held in Marcj. Last year’s theme, Visionaries, honored those who challenged the status quo throughout history and perfectly captured the spirit of the night. Unfortunately, Artish does not appear on the calendar this year. While 2026 is shaping up to be full of standout exhibitions and galas, here’s hoping this beloved after-hours favorite makes a return next year. $75 – $150
Wonders Beyond Words – A fairy tale ball for books
The Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation Annual Gala, Wonders Beyond Words, was a celebratory evening dedicated to advancing literacy, learning, and access across the city. The event honored A. Morris Williams, Jr., Emeritus Board Member, recognizing his extraordinary leadership and longstanding commitment to the Library’s mission. Beyond the accolades, the gala played a critical role in sustaining the future of the Free Library, raising vital funds to support Foundation programs that positively impact the lives of more than 2.2 million Philadelphians each year.
Rittenhouse Grill owner Garth Weldon, singer Adam Pascal and Randy Swartz, co created of the Broadway Cabaret series at the Rittenhouse Grill. A must do. A whimsical evening of music, friends and delicious food. Tickets $100, or with dinner $200 – $225, includes dinner and gratuity.
The Barnes Foundation Gala – Fall Ball is peak Philadelphia people-watching: diverse, stylish, eclectic, and effortlessly fun. It’s one of those must-attend events you should experience at least once in your life. The exhibitions tied to the gala are always thought-provoking, the food is consistently excellent, and yes—there’s a packed dance floor.
Over the course of the night, you’ll find yourself rubbing elbows with Patrons of the Arts, creatives, philanthropists, business leaders, and big thinkers, all sharing the same space in one of the city’s most iconic cultural settings.
The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts 2025 Great Stages Gala, held May 30, was a true love letter to Philadelphia’s performing arts scene. The evening honored former Governor Ed Rendell, Judge Midge Rendell, and PHILADANCO! founder Joan Myers Brown for their lasting impact on the city’s cultural life.
Festivities began with a moving ceremony at the Academy of Music, followed by a lively dinner and party at the Kimmel Center, where performances by the Philadelphia Orchestra, ballet and opera artists, and Broadway favorite Justin Guarini kept the energy soaring. Elegant, joyful, and unmistakably Philly, the gala celebrated the power of the arts to bring a city together—on stage and off.
Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts Trustee Elaine Woo Camarda, philanthropist and arts advocate
Music Industry Legends Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff, creators of “The Philadelphia Sound”
Gov Josh Shapiro. Mayor Cherelle L Parker, former Ambassador David L Cohen and Mark Segal, Philly Gay News, legend
Hands down the best party of the year, in the room where it happened – The Pa Society Dinner. So honored to be the only media photographer in the room. Great access, lots of great photos. By far this is one of my favorites.
Pa. Society honoree David L. Cohen with Patricia D. Wellenbach, President of The Pennsylvania Society
I’ll write more on this in January, as you may know I had the flu for most of December when I returned from this event. Thanks Patricia D. Wellenbach, President of The Pennsylvania Society for having me!!
I could write about another two dozen parties, each and every one of them I get the privilege to shoot are magnificent. These were just a few of the ones where i have dates for next year and I thought it would be helpful to tell you about them.
A few weeks ago, Philadelphia hosted a series of high-energy watch parties, with a major highlight on December 5, 2025, when fans gathered at Stateside Live! and venues across the city for the FIFA World Cup Final Draw including the Center City Philadelphia FIFA Volunteer Headquarters where I was.
We’ve known for years, Philadelphia will host six matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026™, spanning Canada, Mexico, and the United States, including five Group Stage matches and a Round of 16 showdown on July 4, 2026—a historic moment aligning with America’s 250th anniversary.
The city will welcome some of the world’s most celebrated national teams during the Group Stage, including Brazil, France, Ghana, Croatia, Côte d’Ivoire, Curaçao, Ecuador, Haiti, and a Playoff Qualifier.
Philadelphia Match Schedule
Sunday, June 14 Ivory Coast vs. Ecuador | 7:00 PM ET
Friday, June 19 Brazil vs. Haiti | 9:00 PM ET
Monday, June 22 France vs. Playoff Winner (Bolivia, Suriname, or Iraq) | 5:00 PM ET
Thursday, June 25 Curaçao vs. Ivory Coast | 4:00 PM ET
Saturday, June 27 Ghana vs. Croatia | 5:00 PM ET
Saturday, July 4 – Round of 16 Winner Match 74 vs. Winner Match 77 | 5:00 PM ET
Catering was by the 12th Street Catering, and there was this very cool beverage service sponsored by American Airline, and served by actual flight attendants. It was a very cool event with guests ranging from sponsors, to politicians, business leaders and guests all watching the DC ceremony on a large TV.
Thanks to the hard working Philadelphia FIFA staff for working on this project from it’s inception through next year. It’s going to be a great experience for all of Philadelphia, and our visitors who are in for a treat.
A few weeks ago, Arkema‘s North American Headquarters at 155 Radnor held their annual holiday party for their employees.
As part of this week’s holiday party, employees were given an exclusive preview of the company’s new Innovation Lab.
The immersive showroom highlights how Arkema’s advanced materials are used in dozens of everyday products—from automobiles and cleaning solutions to sports equipment and green energy technologies.
The Innovation Lab represents another step in Arkema’s ongoing effort to better tell its story through hands-on experiences.
Catering by Savona
Arkema, a global leader in specialty materials, partnered with Stantec for workplace strategy and design services to develop their North American Headquarters in suburban Philadelphia. At 120,000 square feet, the new space consolidated and relocated their existing multi-building campus into a single, cohesive space.
The company looks forward to welcoming customers, colleagues, media, and community neighbors to explore the space in the new year.
Although all the “Ugly Sweaters” were fantastic, I loved this one “Oh Chemistree! with the chemistry periodic table created the tree!! Thanks for having me again his year to photograph your party.
King of Collectibles Season 3 Premiere Brings Sports, Stars, and Collectibles to Philadelphia
Ken Goldin thanking the over 300 guest who came out to celebrate the season 3 premier of the hit Netflix series King of Collectibles: The Goldin Touch
Philadelphia played host to a high-energy private celebration this week as the premiere party for Season 3 of King of Collectibles: The Goldin Touch took over the W Philadelphia on Wednesday night.
Philadelphia Eagles players and alumni – Landon Dickerson, Todd Herremans, DeSean Jackson, Brent Celek, Connor Barwin and Jordan Mailata
The evening brought together athletes, collectors, and industry insiders to celebrate the return of the hit Netflix series, which pulls back the curtain on the fast-moving, high-stakes world of rare sports and pop-culture memorabilia. The show centers on Goldin, the largest collectibles marketplace on eBay and a dominant force in the global collectibles space.
Logan Paul and Ken Goldin discussing Logan’s Pikachu Illustrator, PSA 10 (Gem Mint) Card
The room buzzed with energy as athletes and notable guests filled the space, including Philadelphia Eagles players, rising NBA star Jared McCain, and digital creator-turned-entrepreneur Logan Paul. It was a true collision of sports, entertainment, and collectibles—mirroring the mix that has made the series such a standout.
Jared McCain and Ken Goldin checking out some rare collectibles
Co-produced by Eli Manning and Peyton Manning, the show continues to spotlight headline-making items, major deals, and the personalities driving today’s booming collectibles market.
The entire cast of season 3 of King of Collectibles: The Goldin Touch posing on the redcarpet together
Season 3 of King of Collectibles: The Goldin Touch officially premieres December 23 on Netflix, and if the energy inside the W Philadelphia was any indication, the new season is poised to be one of the biggest yet.
Among the season’s biggest surprises is Goldin securing a soccer jersey worn, or verifiably used, by Lionel Messi as a child. The story of how it landed in his hands, he said, unfolds on the show and is almost too good for TV.
Thanks to Creative Helm for the photos, and John Whitehead for help in the write up. I unfortunately was downed by the flu last Wednesday, and had to cancel at the last minute.
Michelle Palmer. Executive Director Breakthrough Philadelphia
Breakthrough Marks 30 Years by Exceeding Fundraising Goal at Breakfast of Champions
Breakthrough of Greater Philadelphia is working to promote equity in education by bringing together motivated middle school students and college students who aspire to be teachers. In October they came together at their annual Breakfast of Champions to mark the Breakthrough of Greater Philadelphia’s 30th anniversary held at the Philadelphia Cricket Club.
The 30th Anniversary Breakfast of Champions proved to be a major milestone for Breakthrough, as the organization exceeded its donor matching challenge and raised more than $60,000. The funds will directly support tuition-free programming for 15 Scholars and Teaching Fellows, helping Breakthrough continue its mission of expanding educational opportunity for Philadelphia students in grades 5 through 12.
Najah Spruill, Breakthrough put her on the trajectory for a successful career in education. Summer Instructional Coach and Breakthrough Alumna
The event also highlighted the role of Breakthrough’s Teaching Fellows, who play a critical part in preparing and inspiring the next generation of diverse educators in Philadelphia.
Kalea Albanese, Breakthrough Teaching Fellow
Teaching Fellows are currently-enrolled college students and a pillar of our program at Breakthrough. Teaching Fellows are educators-as-superheroes, empowering and uplifting middle schoolers as diverse, talented role models. All the while bolstering their own future careers through an immersive and meaningful internship.
Alisa Goren and Phyllis Elick
The breakthrough Scholar Experience
This year also marked a significant moment in the organization’s history. For the first time, Breakthrough served students across three programs—High School Ready, Summer Capstone, and College Bound—providing up to eight years of continuous academic and mentorship support.
Michelle Reyes Aleti, Communications & Community Engagement Breakthrough Philadelpha, Frederico Mingozzi and Joseph Kotarski Breakthrough supporters
Michelle Palmer. Executive Director Breakthrough Philadelphia and Jacky Petit-Homme, Founding Partner of Liberty One Wealth Advisors
New in 2025: 8 years of free programming for Breakthrough Scholars
Save the Date: 2026 Spring Soirée on April 30 at 6pm
Your presence powers possibility! Raise a glass, raise a paddle, and support over 250 Breakthrough Scholars and Teaching Fellows. With friends, great food, open bar, and live/silent auctions, it’s a celebration you won’t want to miss.
The ladies who lunch, showed up and out at Fashion For All 2025—hosted again this year at BOYDS beautiful Wayne location—was a stylish and meaningful afternoon that brought the community together in support of Our Closet In Your Neighborhood (OCIYN) work across Philadelphia.
Held on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, the annual fundraiser featured an exclusive runway presentation highlighting the season’s most exciting looks, complemented by luxury brand activations that added energy and immersive moments throughout the event. Most importantly, the event created a powerful opportunity for guests to champion the tremendous impact OCIYN makes in the lives of so many Philadelphians.
Sharon Freedman, Our Closet founder Jill Aschkenasy and Alex Freedman
Our Closet In Your Neighborhood (OCIYN) is a free mobile program that provides food and clothing, as well as access to services and benefits.
Shayna Walinsky, Wynnewood, Melissa Strauss of Narberth, Carly Rubin of Wynnewood and Danielle Walter of Bryn Mawr
Boyds Philadelphia and Boyds Wayne are not only retail destinations for luxury fashion but have also contributed to local community support through partnerships with charitable programs like Our Closet In Your Neighborhood, particularly by hosting and sponsoring the annual Fashion For All fundraiser to benefit families and individuals in need.
The following photos were supplied by Boyd’s of the fashion show.
Boyds is a long-established luxury apparel and accessories boutique with locations in both Philadelphia and Wayne,
offering designer fashion for women and men along with personal shopping and tailored services.
Ken Downing and Kent Gushner
Thanks to Kent Gushner, Missy Dietz and the Boyd family for hosting this wonderful event again this year, and to the fabulous Ken Downing who emceed the fashion show.
I photographed a lot of events this past week and will just be dropping a few gems here. I had a great time at the 2025 Conshohocken Winter Market, presented by Cencora, held last weekend December 5-7 and there again this weekend December 12-14 in the Plaza at SORA West, adjacent to Hotel West & Main and the corporate headquarters of Cencora in downtown Conshohocken. Don’t be a Grinch and go enjoy. BTW who is this Grinch, he was sooo good in character. (More Info)
Two years ago, I launched a dedicated Concierge Photography Service to meet a growing need among the corporate partners who support Philadelphia’s major charity and civic initiatives. As an event photographer, I frequently heard from executives and team members who wanted access to high-quality images featuring their participation at these events—but the reality is that not all event photos are distributed to subjects due to time constraints and varying turnaround requirements.
Globy Awards on Monday
Today, approximately one-third of my work is focused on custom client event coverage, providing companies with consistent, professional imagery they can rely on for marketing, social media, internal communications, and stakeholder engagement. Previously, many organizations relied on staff to capture a few cell-phone snapshots, which rarely conveyed the energy, professionalism, or brand presence they intended.
Rob McNeill, Board of Directors Board Chair, Lorina Marshall-Blake is President of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation, Greg Deavens former President & CEO for Independence Health Group/Independence Blue Cross, Zabeth Teelucksingh Board of Directors President, Global Philadelphia Association
My Concierge Photography Service eliminates that gap. Clients receive polished, strategically curated photos that highlight their involvement, enhance their public profile, and support their philanthropic storytelling—with timely delivery and a level of visual quality that elevates their brand, to be used in Linkedin, SM, blogs reports etc. As I tell my clients this is a good way to tell your story to your clients, readers etc. to your employees to your board.
Last night’s Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber 2025 Excelencia in Business Awards Reception last night. GPHCC develops, promotes and advocates for Hispanic businesses in the Greater Philadelphia Region while encouraging the advancement and economic growth of the Hispanic community.
Tiffany Tavarez is Vice President, Community Impact and Strategic Partnerships for Jefferson’s Office of Community Impact & Belonging
What I love most about my work is the opportunity to document people who are truly making a difference in our community. Over the years, I have followed the careers of leaders who have risen through dedication, integrity, and service—individuals like Tiffany Tavarez, who exemplifies kindness, respect, and genuine civic leadership. Capturing the growth and impact of professionals like her is not just a privilege; it is a core part of why I do what I do.
Jennifer I. Rodríguez is the President and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GPHCC), honoree Nicole Cashman, Cashman & Associates and Tiffany Tavarez.
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Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake is president of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation (Foundation), and Kathryn Epps, President & CEO @fundphlschools, at the The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia Back The Bell party. Independence Blue Cross was honored at the event.
The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia is an independent 501(c)3 not for profit organization that serves as a fiscal intermediary between the private sector and the Philadelphia public education system.
On Tuesday I attended the sneak preview of the Bells which will be distributed to Philly neighborhoods.
The City of Philadelphia and Philadelphia250 (PHL250) offered a first look at Bells Across PA, one of the signature neighborhood programs for the city’s semiquincentennial celebration and part of America250PA’s statewide initiative. Announced by Mayor Cherelle L. Parker in September, the project showcases the histories, cultures, and heroes of Philadelphia’s many neighborhoods.
Michael Newmuis, Philadelphia’s 2026 Director, with artists
In partnership with Mural Arts, 16 local artists are painting 20 replica Liberty Bells, each designed with input from community partners to reflect its neighborhood’s unique identity. The completed bells will be installed across 20 locations for residents and visitors to explore throughout 2026. Look for a formal press conference in January about where each bell will be placed.
It has been a full week of event coverage, with several shoots appearing in my CBSPhilly column and more slated for upcoming Philly Style and Philly Chit Chat features. Now I am preparing to head to New York for the PA Society Annual Dinner and related events, where four of my clients will be in attendance.
These moments are exactly why I do this work—capturing polished, high-impact images that clients can use to elevate their stories, strengthen their brand visibility, and highlight their engagement in key civic spaces.
If you are interested in learning more about this concierge photography service or would like to discuss coverage for your organization, please reach out at HughE@PhillyChitChat.com. I would be happy to explore how we can support your visibility and storytelling needs.
