The Franklin Institute Reviews

Reviews
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4.7 out of 5 rating
4.7 Very good
4.7 out of 5 rating
40 reviews
94% recommend it
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Quality of service 4.9 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 4.8 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 4.7 out of 5 rating
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Value 4.6 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 4.6 out of 5 rating
Awards
40





+56
User photos

Weddingwire
4.7/5
40 reviews
Google
4.6/5
12896 reviews
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Jen P. Sent on 02/20/20244 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 4 out of 5 rating
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Value 4 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 2 out of 5 rating
I love you Franklin Institute!
If you want to impress your guests, get married at the franklin institute.
Tara was our events manager and I have to say, she really really beautifully handled our wedding, giving it was not the most perfect wedding. The fire alarm did go off during our ceremony and everyone had to evacuate, which was no one's fault and people were definitely angry and scrambling, and I honestly can say, my wedding was not even close to being ruined.
Luckily there was no real fire and Tara definitely did the best she could to turn off the emergency lights that were brightening our ceremony and reception, and updated us on exactly what is happening throughout the night. There were some minor hiccups like the timing of the music for the entrance for the ceremony and reception but overall, it was THE HAPPIEST DAY OF MY LIFE and I am truly grateful Tara and her crew were there to support us. Because of what happened, the franklin institute allowed us to stay longer and let us walk through the heart after the wedding! They were sooooooo thoughtful and felt really bad for us and refunded us for the lighting package that we didn't really get to use.
Our guests left saying it was the best wedding they have ever been to, and I was so happy we went with The Franklin Institute.If you want to impress your guests, get married at the franklin institute.
Tara was our events manager and I have to say, she really really beautifully handled our wedding, giving it was not the most perfect wedding. The fire alarm did go off during our ceremony and everyone had to evacuate, which was no one's fault and people were definitely angry and scrambling, and I honestly can say, my wedding was not even close to being ruined.
Luckily there was no real fire and Tara definitely did the best she could to turn off the emergency lights that were brightening our ceremony and reception, and updated us on exactly what is happening throughout the night. There were some minor hiccups like the timing of the music for the entrance for the ceremony and reception but overall, it was THE HAPPIEST DAY OF MY LIFE and I am truly grateful Tara and her crew were there to support us. Because of what happened, the franklin institute allowed us to stay longer and let us walk through the heart after the wedding! They were sooooooo thoughtful and felt really bad for us and refunded us for the lighting package that we didn't really get to use.
Our guests left saying it was the best wedding they have ever been to, and I was so happy we went with The Franklin Institute.-
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+3 photos
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Quality of service
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Stephen Sent on 06/04/20234.2 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 4 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 4 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 4 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 4 out of 5 rating
Father of Bride
Beyond magical. Perfect. So many guests said “best wedding ever” and meant it. My daughter was married at FI on 6/2/2023. Just an extraordinary experience. Service in planetarium with special light effects was amazing. Constance was easy to deal with; the food was exceptional and the wait staff- not an easy job- was very professional and eager to please. And the rotunda where we had the dinner was large enough to accommodate what turned out to be a joyful party with a great bank “Rio”. I am not an easy market but I would give FI 6 stars if I could. It was that memorable.Beyond magical. Perfect. So many guests said “best wedding ever” and meant it. My daughter was married at FI on 6/2/2023. Just an extraordinary experience. Service in planetarium with special light effects was amazing. Constance was easy to deal with; the food was exceptional and the wait staff- not an easy job- was very professional and eager to please. And the rotunda where we had the dinner was large enough to accommodate what turned out to be a joyful party with a great bank “Rio”. I am not an easy market but I would give FI 6 stars if I could. It was that memorable. -
Quality of service
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Erik Sent on 02/21/20234.6 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 4 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 4 out of 5 rating
Great staff, location, and vibe for our nerdy wedding
Our experience working with The Franklin Institute was incredible. Gina is an incredible event coordinator, and went out of her way to help us get things sorted all along the way and day-of. Even when the manager and head chef of the catering company exited stage right a month before our date, the team worked with us to assuage our anxiety. It was the best wedding that's ever been, and we're so happy we made the choice to go with The Franklin!Our experience working with The Franklin Institute was incredible. Gina is an incredible event coordinator, and went out of her way to help us get things sorted all along the way and day-of. Even when the manager and head chef of the catering company exited stage right a month before our date, the team worked with us to assuage our anxiety. It was the best wedding that's ever been, and we're so happy we made the choice to go with The Franklin! -
Quality of service
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Jess Sent on 12/28/20225 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
Philly's Best Wedding Venue
The Franklin Institute has always been my dream venue for as long as I can remember. The Franklin Institute is flat out gorgeous. It’s in the city that is near and dear to my heart. Everything about having my wedding at the Franklin Institute was perfect. Also, It was not hard to convince my husband to book this venue. My husband and I are Drexel University engineer alumni and what better place to celebrate our wedding then the best science museum in the country. Our wedding revolved around the availability the Franklin Institute. End of August it was and luckily the weekend before the “Made in America” festival.
My husband and I booked both ceremony and cocktail hour/reception services. The two main ceremony locations are the FELS planetarium and the rooftop deck. At first, we considered the rooftop deck, but after considering potential weather concerns and overall guest count, we booked the FELS planetarium. During pre wedding walk throughs, my husband and I worked with Gina and Simon on lighting options in the Planetarium from the prelude, processional, ceremony, and recessional. Massive kudos to Simon for assisting us on using custom images for our ceremony in the planetarium. In terms of the cocktail hour, the changing earth, heart, and electricity permanent exhibits were a HUGE hit. There is nothing like being able to eat, drink, and mingle among the exhibits in a private event.
My husband and I can’t express how perfect the reception was in the Franklin Hall as the Ben Franklin statue sat watch. Purchase the lighting package for the reception! Gina helped us customize the color scheme for the entire reception. We had different color configurations for dinner, dancing, and speeches. The stars projected on the marble floor for our first dance was probably our favorite part of the lighting package. My husband and I booked the luxury catering package with Levy catering (in house catering group) which allowed us to use the chivari chairs. These chairs were so worth it. Connie helped us with everything catering wise. We were able to make substitutions with alcohol, appetizers, and entrees. If we asked for something, Connie got it for us.
My husband and I are so grateful for all of the organization and flexibility Gina and Connie had during this entire process. The clear communication amongst all parties created a stress free day where we could focus on creating beautiful memories, dance the night away, and stuff our faces with delicious food. We HIGHY HIGHLY recommend booking The Franklin Institute for your reception and/or ceremony venue.The Franklin Institute has always been my dream venue for as long as I can remember. The Franklin Institute is flat out gorgeous. It’s in the city that is near and dear to my heart. Everything about having my wedding at the Franklin Institute was perfect. Also, It was not hard to convince my husband to book this venue. My husband and I are Drexel University engineer alumni and what better place to celebrate our wedding then the best science museum in the country. Our wedding revolved around the availability the Franklin Institute. End of August it was and luckily the weekend before the “Made in America” festival.
My husband and I booked both ceremony and cocktail hour/reception services. The two main ceremony locations are the FELS planetarium and the rooftop deck. At first, we considered the rooftop deck, but after considering potential weather concerns and overall guest count, we booked the FELS planetarium. During pre wedding walk throughs, my husband and I worked with Gina and Simon on lighting options in the Planetarium from the prelude, processional, ceremony, and recessional. Massive kudos to Simon for assisting us on using custom images for our ceremony in the planetarium. In terms of the cocktail hour, the changing earth, heart, and electricity permanent exhibits were a HUGE hit. There is nothing like being able to eat, drink, and mingle among the exhibits in a private event.
My husband and I can’t express how perfect the reception was in the Franklin Hall as the Ben Franklin statue sat watch. Purchase the lighting package for the reception! Gina helped us customize the color scheme for the entire reception. We had different color configurations for dinner, dancing, and speeches. The stars projected on the marble floor for our first dance was probably our favorite part of the lighting package. My husband and I booked the luxury catering package with Levy catering (in house catering group) which allowed us to use the chivari chairs. These chairs were so worth it. Connie helped us with everything catering wise. We were able to make substitutions with alcohol, appetizers, and entrees. If we asked for something, Connie got it for us.
My husband and I are so grateful for all of the organization and flexibility Gina and Connie had during this entire process. The clear communication amongst all parties created a stress free day where we could focus on creating beautiful memories, dance the night away, and stuff our faces with delicious food. We HIGHY HIGHLY recommend booking The Franklin Institute for your reception and/or ceremony venue.-
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+18 photos
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Quality of service
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The B. Sent on 01/27/20224 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 4 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 4 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 2 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
Great but...
The event manager was a complete a××. She went out of her way to come to my table and condescend to me for something so I took that time to tell her that my wedding cake was the wrong shape. She argued with me that I was wrong. I only told her because instead of addressing my mother or someone else, she was just looking for someone to complain to maybe, but the bride? She KNOWS BETTER THAN TO ARGUE WITH THE BRIDE ALONE AT THE SWEETHEART TABLE. She has to be gone hopefully. She was just mad she had to work.The event manager was a complete a××. She went out of her way to come to my table and condescend to me for something so I took that time to tell her that my wedding cake was the wrong shape. She argued with me that I was wrong. I only told her because instead of addressing my mother or someone else, she was just looking for someone to complain to maybe, but the bride? She KNOWS BETTER THAN TO ARGUE WITH THE BRIDE ALONE AT THE SWEETHEART TABLE. She has to be gone hopefully. She was just mad she had to work. -
Quality of service
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Lauren-Marie Sent on 10/23/20205 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
Unforgettable!
Our wedding at the Franklin Institute was perfect and STUNNING!
My husband and I knew we wanted our wedding to be in Philly because it represents us as a couple since we spend so much time out and about in the city. We have no regrets with choosing the Franklin Institute as our reception venue. It was an amazing night that our guests and we will never forget!
My Mom and I booked tours at 9 different reception venues in Philly. The Franklin Institute was the first of our 9 visits. As a teacher that has had field trips at the FI, I just wasn't sure that I wanted to have my wedding at the same location that I've brought kindergarteners to for a field trip. Boy am I glad I gave it a chance. After seeing the Franklin Institute on the first day of our first visits, it was clear that every other venue paled in comparison. Sure, there were some beautiful venues but none of them came close to the unique and breathtaking elements that the FI had to offer.
You can have your cocktail hour in the brain which is so unique. We loved that our guests could have an interactive experience! It was really neat for out-of-towners as well as people that just haven't been to the FI in ages.
The light and sound package can't be beat! As your guests enter the main dining room, the lights change, a video plays and the whole reception experience transforms right before your eyes. You choose all of your light settings ahead of time and you are able to project any logos, photos or videos that you want! There are engineers on site the night of your wedding to ensure everything is running smoothly. We got lots of compliments on the slideshow we had running throughout the length of the reception.
Even more amazing than the light and sound package?! The GINORMOUS statue of Ben overlooking the most amazing night of your life.
You can't get a better dance floor than a true marble floor. We were able to line the stairs with candlelight which looked gorgeous. The chiavari chairs unfortunately aren't included but they are absolutely worth it and will make your room look amazing!
We had a representative from the FI and one from the catering company that worked together to help us plan our event. On the night of our wedding, we had a bridal attendant that was amazing! She was there for everything we needed the entire night!
We loved that there can only be one wedding per night so everyone was focused on our event and not multitasking with other weddings.
They validate parking for $7 per car which is amazing considering it's Philly. Trolleys will drop your guests off at the front steps which makes for an epic entrance!
The bathrooms are pretty ugly since they aren't a fancy venue but you can do things on your own to give them a personal touch.
There are soooooo many amazing photo opportunities throughout the FI and they give the bride/groom and photographer full access.
Lots of options as far as where you put your bars, your food stations, photo booth, etc. The food is all made from scratch from the Frog Commissary.
We had a few bumps in the road during our two year planning process but overall everything was great; our wedding day was everything we dreamed of and so much more! The Franklin Institute is an amazingly unique venue that you and your guests will rave about.
Thank you to Gina, Beth and everyone else that helped make our wedding reception the most special, amazing night of our lives. We will never forget it!!!Our wedding at the Franklin Institute was perfect and STUNNING!
My husband and I knew we wanted our wedding to be in Philly because it represents us as a couple since we spend so much time out and about in the city. We have no regrets with choosing the Franklin Institute as our reception venue. It was an amazing night that our guests and we will never forget!
My Mom and I booked tours at 9 different reception venues in Philly. The Franklin Institute was the first of our 9 visits. As a teacher that has had field trips at the FI, I just wasn't sure that I wanted to have my wedding at the same location that I've brought kindergarteners to for a field trip. Boy am I glad I gave it a chance. After seeing the Franklin Institute on the first day of our first visits, it was clear that every other venue paled in comparison. Sure, there were some beautiful venues but none of them came close to the unique and breathtaking elements that the FI had to offer.
You can have your cocktail hour in the brain which is so unique. We loved that our guests could have an interactive experience! It was really neat for out-of-towners as well as people that just haven't been to the FI in ages.
The light and sound package can't be beat! As your guests enter the main dining room, the lights change, a video plays and the whole reception experience transforms right before your eyes. You choose all of your light settings ahead of time and you are able to project any logos, photos or videos that you want! There are engineers on site the night of your wedding to ensure everything is running smoothly. We got lots of compliments on the slideshow we had running throughout the length of the reception.
Even more amazing than the light and sound package?! The GINORMOUS statue of Ben overlooking the most amazing night of your life.
You can't get a better dance floor than a true marble floor. We were able to line the stairs with candlelight which looked gorgeous. The chiavari chairs unfortunately aren't included but they are absolutely worth it and will make your room look amazing!
We had a representative from the FI and one from the catering company that worked together to help us plan our event. On the night of our wedding, we had a bridal attendant that was amazing! She was there for everything we needed the entire night!
We loved that there can only be one wedding per night so everyone was focused on our event and not multitasking with other weddings.
They validate parking for $7 per car which is amazing considering it's Philly. Trolleys will drop your guests off at the front steps which makes for an epic entrance!
The bathrooms are pretty ugly since they aren't a fancy venue but you can do things on your own to give them a personal touch.
There are soooooo many amazing photo opportunities throughout the FI and they give the bride/groom and photographer full access.
Lots of options as far as where you put your bars, your food stations, photo booth, etc. The food is all made from scratch from the Frog Commissary.
We had a few bumps in the road during our two year planning process but overall everything was great; our wedding day was everything we dreamed of and so much more! The Franklin Institute is an amazingly unique venue that you and your guests will rave about.
Thank you to Gina, Beth and everyone else that helped make our wedding reception the most special, amazing night of our lives. We will never forget it!!!-
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+18 photos
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Quality of service
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Josepha Sent on 08/22/20205 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
Fantastic iconic wedding
Our wedding at the Franklin Institute on November 10, 2019 was spectacular. People are still talking about it being the most beautiful wedding ceremony and dinner/party they had attended. The entire staff was attentive, knowledgeable, totally supportive and we didn't have to worry about a single detail from the moment of our arrival until our departure at the end of the night. I can't say enough about the entire staff and the wonderful Frog Commisary.Our wedding at the Franklin Institute on November 10, 2019 was spectacular. People are still talking about it being the most beautiful wedding ceremony and dinner/party they had attended. The entire staff was attentive, knowledgeable, totally supportive and we didn't have to worry about a single detail from the moment of our arrival until our departure at the end of the night. I can't say enough about the entire staff and the wonderful Frog Commisary. -
Quality of service
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Lauren Sent on 06/18/20205 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
Incredible Wedding Reception Venue
There are not enough words to express how wonderful the team at the Franklin Institute and their in-house caterer Frog Commissary made our wedding reception. It was absolutely magical from start to finish, and the planning process throughout the year leading up to our wedding was absolutely seamless. We interacted via calls and emails regularly, visited a number of times for walk throughs, decor and lighting consultations, and a tasting (we are out of state and they accommodated us SO wonderfully), and honestly just had so much FUN with the team of staff from the Franklin and Frog throughout the whole process!!! Our guests raved about cocktail hour in the exhibits as well as the big reveal into Franklin Hall, and the room looked exactly as we had imagined it, tables, lighting, and all! Kristi and Morgan got us scheduled and
booked, and our Big Day was made so special especially by Connie, Gina, and our attendants and catering staff who, please know, are some of the kindest and most helpful people we have ever had the pleasure of working with. Thank you ALL so much for your hospitality, attention to detail, and truly accommodating nature!! We feel like we could not possibly have picked a better venue for our wedding reception and feel so lucky that the FI/Frog has such an incredible team of professionals to help us see it through. Photos attached are by Daniel Moyer Photography.There are not enough words to express how wonderful the team at the Franklin Institute and their in-house caterer Frog Commissary made our wedding reception. It was absolutely magical from start to finish, and the planning process throughout the year leading up to our wedding was absolutely seamless. We interacted via calls and emails regularly, visited a number of times for walk throughs, decor and lighting consultations, and a tasting (we are out of state and they accommodated us SO wonderfully), and honestly just had so much FUN with the team of staff from the Franklin and Frog throughout the whole process!!! Our guests raved about cocktail hour in the exhibits as well as the big reveal into Franklin Hall, and the room looked exactly as we had imagined it, tables, lighting, and all! Kristi and Morgan got us scheduled and
booked, and our Big Day was made so special especially by Connie, Gina, and our attendants and catering staff who, please know, are some of the kindest and most helpful people we have ever had the pleasure of working with. Thank you ALL so much for your hospitality, attention to detail, and truly accommodating nature!! We feel like we could not possibly have picked a better venue for our wedding reception and feel so lucky that the FI/Frog has such an incredible team of professionals to help us see it through. Photos attached are by Daniel Moyer Photography.-
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+3 photos
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Quality of service
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Irina Sent on 09/05/20194.8 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 4 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
Very unique, cool and beautiful venue!!!
Our wedding (I am the mother of the groom) was held at the Franklin Institute on 09/01/19.
The venue is just so cool!!! The chuppah at the planetarium looked amazing with all the lighting!!! The location is great! Many guests said that it was the most unique place they ever attended for a wedding.
We had a lot going on with setup: personalized picture frames, bathroom baskets, table numbers, a personalized gift for the bride for the cocktail hour, a couple of fun stations for the guests. All these needed to be setup and arranged by the event team in a very short period of time. Everything was done to our fullest satisfaction and also everything was packed back for us upon leaving the venue. We also had a movie that we made to play on the TV in the Changing Earth room. Gina and the event team were accommodating for us to bring it in and try it ahead of the time. At the time of the trial I asked if we could have another TV in the Electricity room – the answer was no problem, we will get it all setup for you. And they did! The movie played in both rooms where all of our guests were able to enjoy them.
Connie and the Frog Commissary team were accommodating also to setup the gift for the bride on the table for everyone to enjoy during the cocktail hour. The food was very delicious and very nicely presented. The fish and beef were amazing! The tables were decorated beautifully and tables arranged well so that there was plenty of room for guests to sit comfortable and to dance. The lighting in the room was fabulous!
Acoustics were also great!
Family pictures were taken up on the roof and they came out beautifully
The wedding was held during the weekend of the “Made In America” concert, which made us all nervous preparing for it. Gina (the event coordinator) made sure we had directions, street closures and accommodating parking to assure everyone got in on time. Everything worked out just fine, all vendors and guests made it on time without any troubles.Our wedding (I am the mother of the groom) was held at the Franklin Institute on 09/01/19.
The venue is just so cool!!! The chuppah at the planetarium looked amazing with all the lighting!!! The location is great! Many guests said that it was the most unique place they ever attended for a wedding.
We had a lot going on with setup: personalized picture frames, bathroom baskets, table numbers, a personalized gift for the bride for the cocktail hour, a couple of fun stations for the guests. All these needed to be setup and arranged by the event team in a very short period of time. Everything was done to our fullest satisfaction and also everything was packed back for us upon leaving the venue. We also had a movie that we made to play on the TV in the Changing Earth room. Gina and the event team were accommodating for us to bring it in and try it ahead of the time. At the time of the trial I asked if we could have another TV in the Electricity room – the answer was no problem, we will get it all setup for you. And they did! The movie played in both rooms where all of our guests were able to enjoy them.
Connie and the Frog Commissary team were accommodating also to setup the gift for the bride on the table for everyone to enjoy during the cocktail hour. The food was very delicious and very nicely presented. The fish and beef were amazing! The tables were decorated beautifully and tables arranged well so that there was plenty of room for guests to sit comfortable and to dance. The lighting in the room was fabulous!
Acoustics were also great!
Family pictures were taken up on the roof and they came out beautifully
The wedding was held during the weekend of the “Made In America” concert, which made us all nervous preparing for it. Gina (the event coordinator) made sure we had directions, street closures and accommodating parking to assure everyone got in on time. Everything worked out just fine, all vendors and guests made it on time without any troubles. -
Quality of service
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Genna Sent on 07/31/20184 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 4 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 4 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 4 out of 5 rating
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Value 4 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 4 out of 5 rating
Overall we had a beautiful wedding reception! We wanted something unique, but still elegant and we were definitely pleased. It does seem that weddings are not their "forte". There was disorganization that probably would not have happened at a more typical wedding venue-like: they forgot to ask me until 10 minutes before the reception if we had any tables that had more than 10 people (we did; I had to scramble to pull up my seating chart when I could've been at the cocktail hour), they didn't light all the candles in the room until I mentioned it, they had bread plates with pats of butter but no bread, and some of the items that we had dropped off to decorate in clearly labeled boxes were not put out at all. We also had guests that were not told many things- like where to exit/enter to receive our wedding take home treat, or that there was a dessert/cake table. During our cocktail hour, our guests also did not immediately know that there for more food/drink stations throughout, not just at the front- staff could have mentioned this as our guests entered. These were small things that guests did not notice but we did as hosts. In the planning process, we often had different points of contact which was confusing. In the2 days before the wedding we had a meeting with Gina in which she was late and tried to send two interns. This is a once in a lifetime event and we needed to meet with the person we were planning with for the past year. Gina did reschedule with us & we eventually had our meeting to drop off our items- however as previously mentioned some of those items never made it out. We definitely enjoyed the unique atmosphere & we can't say enough kind things about the young men & women who helped us that night; without them our night would not have been nearly as smooth! As a future bride & groom, know that you are not booking a typical wedding venue; be prepared to ask for things to been done. Otherwise the venue is a spectacular space & our pictures are beautiful.Overall we had a beautiful wedding reception! We wanted something unique, but still elegant and we were definitely pleased. It does seem that weddings are not their "forte". There was disorganization that probably would not have happened at a more typical wedding venue-like: they forgot to ask me until 10 minutes before the reception if we had any tables that had more than 10 people (we did; I had to scramble to pull up my seating chart when I could've been at the cocktail hour), they didn't light all the candles in the room until I mentioned it, they had bread plates with pats of butter but no bread, and some of the items that we had dropped off to decorate in clearly labeled boxes were not put out at all. We also had guests that were not told many things- like where to exit/enter to receive our wedding take home treat, or that there was a dessert/cake table. During our cocktail hour, our guests also did not immediately know that there for more food/drink stations throughout, not just at the front- staff could have mentioned this as our guests entered. These were small things that guests did not notice but we did as hosts. In the planning process, we often had different points of contact which was confusing. In the2 days before the wedding we had a meeting with Gina in which she was late and tried to send two interns. This is a once in a lifetime event and we needed to meet with the person we were planning with for the past year. Gina did reschedule with us & we eventually had our meeting to drop off our items- however as previously mentioned some of those items never made it out. We definitely enjoyed the unique atmosphere & we can't say enough kind things about the young men & women who helped us that night; without them our night would not have been nearly as smooth! As a future bride & groom, know that you are not booking a typical wedding venue; be prepared to ask for things to been done. Otherwise the venue is a spectacular space & our pictures are beautiful. -
Quality of service
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Claire Sent on 06/19/20184.8 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 4 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
The Franklin Institute made our wedding absolutely unique and all of our guests were definitely wow'ed by the ballroom! Cocktail hour throughout the exhibits was great, with everyone making weather reports and climbing through the giant heart. The lighting options for the rotunda helped change the feel during dinner vs. when the party was started. The acoustics/sound of our band was also great (they installed sound deadening panels to prevent any echoing in that huge space)!! Overall our night was magical and my husband and I were even allowed to go up on the roof for some alone time after cutting the cake. I can't say enough positive things!The Franklin Institute made our wedding absolutely unique and all of our guests were definitely wow'ed by the ballroom! Cocktail hour throughout the exhibits was great, with everyone making weather reports and climbing through the giant heart. The lighting options for the rotunda helped change the feel during dinner vs. when the party was started. The acoustics/sound of our band was also great (they installed sound deadening panels to prevent any echoing in that huge space)!! Overall our night was magical and my husband and I were even allowed to go up on the roof for some alone time after cutting the cake. I can't say enough positive things! -
Quality of service
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Patricia Sent on 02/17/20185 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
What a showstopper! The venue was the very first thing we searched for in preparations for our big day. Our guests were wowed with panoramic views, great location, top notch service, an amazing light show, & the coolest cocktail hour a wedding has ever seen! Weather moved our rooftop ceremony inside to the stunning Pepper Hall. We absolutely loved the beautiful bookshelves lined with votive candles for our ceremony he gigantic dark wood doors at the end of the room made for a spectacular entrance down the aisle. Beautiful views of our beloved city were visible from every window. After the ceremony, our guests were escorted to cocktail hour in Wisdom Hall & the Brain Exhibit. In the Brain, guests could climb through the two-story neural structure with lighting & sound features. A huge wow factor & perfect spot for some quick bridal party pictures!
The optional lighting package in Franklin Hall is a must! It added so much color & fun to the space & the stars displayed on the floor during our first dance were magical. With the lighting package, we could indicate which colors we wanted at which intervals throughout the night as well as display a monogram on the pillars throughout the night. Completely customizable & very much worth it!
Every step along the way we worked with very professional & helpful staff. Gina helped us organize everything- she is on top of it! We were very comfortable & felt as though we were spending our wedding budget wisely to invest in a venue that would be so memorable (& that we could visit in the future without it being weird haha). Pairing Frog Commissary catering with the Franklin is a perfect fit. They are very skilled at working together & know how to put a one of a kind event unique to each couple. The complimentary surprises we received in the mail a month after the wedding was such a treat! We look forward to visiting the Franklin Institute for many years to come to enjoy the museum as well as to remember our special day.What a showstopper! The venue was the very first thing we searched for in preparations for our big day. Our guests were wowed with panoramic views, great location, top notch service, an amazing light show, & the coolest cocktail hour a wedding has ever seen! Weather moved our rooftop ceremony inside to the stunning Pepper Hall. We absolutely loved the beautiful bookshelves lined with votive candles for our ceremony he gigantic dark wood doors at the end of the room made for a spectacular entrance down the aisle. Beautiful views of our beloved city were visible from every window. After the ceremony, our guests were escorted to cocktail hour in Wisdom Hall & the Brain Exhibit. In the Brain, guests could climb through the two-story neural structure with lighting & sound features. A huge wow factor & perfect spot for some quick bridal party pictures!
The optional lighting package in Franklin Hall is a must! It added so much color & fun to the space & the stars displayed on the floor during our first dance were magical. With the lighting package, we could indicate which colors we wanted at which intervals throughout the night as well as display a monogram on the pillars throughout the night. Completely customizable & very much worth it!
Every step along the way we worked with very professional & helpful staff. Gina helped us organize everything- she is on top of it! We were very comfortable & felt as though we were spending our wedding budget wisely to invest in a venue that would be so memorable (& that we could visit in the future without it being weird haha). Pairing Frog Commissary catering with the Franklin is a perfect fit. They are very skilled at working together & know how to put a one of a kind event unique to each couple. The complimentary surprises we received in the mail a month after the wedding was such a treat! We look forward to visiting the Franklin Institute for many years to come to enjoy the museum as well as to remember our special day.-
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Sophia Sent on 08/28/20175 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
Not your typical ballroom/banquet hall; has character, class and awesome service! Filled with beautiful details from the high dramatic ceiling to the marble floors, the interactive rooms, the Ben statue, the lighting (get the package) ---so many compliments and didn't want our wedding to end!Not your typical ballroom/banquet hall; has character, class and awesome service! Filled with beautiful details from the high dramatic ceiling to the marble floors, the interactive rooms, the Ben statue, the lighting (get the package) ---so many compliments and didn't want our wedding to end! -
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Pamela Sent on 03/27/20174.8 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 4.5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 4.5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
Amazing venue! We got so much great feedback from our guests about the uniqueness and classic beauty of the space. Gina, the venue coordinator, is fantastic to work with and ensures everything runs smoothly the day of.Amazing venue! We got so much great feedback from our guests about the uniqueness and classic beauty of the space. Gina, the venue coordinator, is fantastic to work with and ensures everything runs smoothly the day of. -
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Julia Sent on 02/14/20175 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
We loved our wedding here! It didn't require any extra decoration and was great for adults and kids.We loved our wedding here! It didn't require any extra decoration and was great for adults and kids. -
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Dan Sent on 01/20/20174.9 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 4.5 out of 5 rating
The Franklin Institute was the perfect venue, and their entire team was extremely professional and helped to make sure our wedding night was spectacular! Everyone love the ambience from the dramatic starry planetarium to the fun science exhibits to the grand Franklin Hall, which made a great dance floor. Thanks to Gina, all our vendors and wedding party members worked seamlessly together and everyone knew exactly where they needed to be. Alli and Jill and the rest of the Frog Commissary Catering crew were wonderful throughout the planning process and the night of the wedding, making sure the dinner was delicious while fitting all of our dietary requests.
All our family and friends loved the food, and they loved the feeling of the venue which is unlike any other wedding or celebration we had experienced. The venue is definitely on the pricey side, but it was absolutely worth it. The lighting in Franklin Hall, the sky in the planetarium, and the ambience of the whole museum made our night beyond amazing. My now wife and I are so happy with how everything went! Thank you to all the staff at the Franklin Institute and the Frog Commissary for assembling a wonderful evening!The Franklin Institute was the perfect venue, and their entire team was extremely professional and helped to make sure our wedding night was spectacular! Everyone love the ambience from the dramatic starry planetarium to the fun science exhibits to the grand Franklin Hall, which made a great dance floor. Thanks to Gina, all our vendors and wedding party members worked seamlessly together and everyone knew exactly where they needed to be. Alli and Jill and the rest of the Frog Commissary Catering crew were wonderful throughout the planning process and the night of the wedding, making sure the dinner was delicious while fitting all of our dietary requests.
All our family and friends loved the food, and they loved the feeling of the venue which is unlike any other wedding or celebration we had experienced. The venue is definitely on the pricey side, but it was absolutely worth it. The lighting in Franklin Hall, the sky in the planetarium, and the ambience of the whole museum made our night beyond amazing. My now wife and I are so happy with how everything went! Thank you to all the staff at the Franklin Institute and the Frog Commissary for assembling a wonderful evening! -
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Angela Sent on 12/05/20164.8 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 4 out of 5 rating
We had our wedding at FI and it was absolutely amazing! All of our guests commented on how absolutely beautiful the venue was and what a unique experience it was. The food was amazing and every person I worked with was friendly and as helpful as they could be.We had our wedding at FI and it was absolutely amazing! All of our guests commented on how absolutely beautiful the venue was and what a unique experience it was. The food was amazing and every person I worked with was friendly and as helpful as they could be. -
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Amy Sent on 11/18/20165 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
Amazing venue to get married. Everything ran like clockwork and the staff was at the top of their game. As smooth as a wedding could go.Amazing venue to get married. Everything ran like clockwork and the staff was at the top of their game. As smooth as a wedding could go. -
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Lindsay Sent on 07/15/20155 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
The Franklin Institute was an amazing venue for our Wedding Reception! We hosted our cocktail hour in the exhibit, Your Brain, which was fun, upbeat, and classy! The reception was held in Franklin Hall, beneath the Ben Franklin Memorial statue. The space was absolutely breathtaking! The staff at the FI did an amazing job of planning the evening, and followed through with excellent customer service! Their in-house caterer, Frog Commissary, gave us a delicious variety of items to from for both our cocktail hour and our dinner. It was a great venue to host a Wedding!The Franklin Institute was an amazing venue for our Wedding Reception! We hosted our cocktail hour in the exhibit, Your Brain, which was fun, upbeat, and classy! The reception was held in Franklin Hall, beneath the Ben Franklin Memorial statue. The space was absolutely breathtaking! The staff at the FI did an amazing job of planning the evening, and followed through with excellent customer service! Their in-house caterer, Frog Commissary, gave us a delicious variety of items to from for both our cocktail hour and our dinner. It was a great venue to host a Wedding! -
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Megan Sent on 06/24/20155 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
My husband and I were married at the Franklin Institute in April 2015. From the moment we walked in for our initial visit until the moment we stepped out of Franklin Hall as husband and wife our experience was perfect. This venue and it's amazing team makes sure every detail is taken care of and assures that the bride and groom (as well as their families) have nothing to worry about but having fun and celebrating the day.
We held our ceremony in Fels Planetarium which provided and amazing and unique location to say our vows. I will recommend to future couples that bringing in additional lighting was key to making the planetarium perfect. Our florist was able to bring in some spot lights and it made all the difference in the world. The projections on the ceiling still came through but our family and friends could see our faces while we said I do.
If you're looking for a gorgeous, show-stopping venue for your wedding, The Franklin Institute is that place for you. Obviously my husband and I thought our wedding was the "Best Wedding Ever" but when our guests told us they felt the same way...I actually believed them!My husband and I were married at the Franklin Institute in April 2015. From the moment we walked in for our initial visit until the moment we stepped out of Franklin Hall as husband and wife our experience was perfect. This venue and it's amazing team makes sure every detail is taken care of and assures that the bride and groom (as well as their families) have nothing to worry about but having fun and celebrating the day.
We held our ceremony in Fels Planetarium which provided and amazing and unique location to say our vows. I will recommend to future couples that bringing in additional lighting was key to making the planetarium perfect. Our florist was able to bring in some spot lights and it made all the difference in the world. The projections on the ceiling still came through but our family and friends could see our faces while we said I do.
If you're looking for a gorgeous, show-stopping venue for your wedding, The Franklin Institute is that place for you. Obviously my husband and I thought our wedding was the "Best Wedding Ever" but when our guests told us they felt the same way...I actually believed them! -
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Jennie Sent on 05/27/20154.7 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 4.5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 4 out of 5 rating
From the official first Franklins ever to be married at the Franklin Institute.!!Completely Pleased. Wonderful Venue. Exceptional Service. I could not be happier working with Mike Boris, Connie and staff and especially Gina DeGiovanni, our event organizer! They made everything go smoothly, they performed above and beyond their stations. Thank you to all for making our wedding memorable. And also for helping us with transportation issues before and after our wedding. The food was abundant and delicious! The wait staff was prompt and courteous! The bar tenders were awesome! Thank you all!From the official first Franklins ever to be married at the Franklin Institute.!!Completely Pleased. Wonderful Venue. Exceptional Service. I could not be happier working with Mike Boris, Connie and staff and especially Gina DeGiovanni, our event organizer! They made everything go smoothly, they performed above and beyond their stations. Thank you to all for making our wedding memorable. And also for helping us with transportation issues before and after our wedding. The food was abundant and delicious! The wait staff was prompt and courteous! The bar tenders were awesome! Thank you all! -
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Jessica Sent on 01/26/20155 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
Everything was EXCEPTIONAL!!! I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. They were very accommodating to where we wanted pictures and the cocktail hour. It was beautiful and everyone keeps talking about it.Everything was EXCEPTIONAL!!! I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. They were very accommodating to where we wanted pictures and the cocktail hour. It was beautiful and everyone keeps talking about it. -
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User1931438 Sent on 11/19/20145 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
We are so glad that we chose the Franklin Institute as our wedding venue. It provided such a unique and magical experience for us and our guests! We got married in the planetarium, had cocktail hour through the exhibits, and had dinner and dancing in Franklin Hall. All of the staff is absolutely wonderful and the venue is so beautiful!We are so glad that we chose the Franklin Institute as our wedding venue. It provided such a unique and magical experience for us and our guests! We got married in the planetarium, had cocktail hour through the exhibits, and had dinner and dancing in Franklin Hall. All of the staff is absolutely wonderful and the venue is so beautiful! -
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User1852466 Sent on 10/08/20145 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 5 out of 5 rating
I had my sights set on the Franklin Institute before we even got engaged and it did not disappoint. It was the perfect setting for a unique downtown wedding. Our guests loved it. PerfectionI had my sights set on the Franklin Institute before we even got engaged and it did not disappoint. It was the perfect setting for a unique downtown wedding. Our guests loved it. Perfection -
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User1771330 Sent on 08/19/20144.8 out of 5 rating
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Quality of service 5 out of 5 rating
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Average response time 5 out of 5 rating
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Professionalism 5 out of 5 rating
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Value 4.5 out of 5 rating
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Flexibility 4.5 out of 5 rating
The Franklin Institute was absolutely beautiful and was extremely fun - everyone keeps commenting on how it was the most fun wedding they had ever been to. The staff was extremely helpful and it was the perfect evening. The main issue is with time - you can't have the wedding until the museum closes and while they do allow you to enter earlier in the day to get ready, you're still limited in how far beforehand you're allowed to get there so we were rushing to get ready and get photos done beforehand. It was definitely a beautiful, fun, memorable wedding though and would do it again in a heart beat.The Franklin Institute was absolutely beautiful and was extremely fun - everyone keeps commenting on how it was the most fun wedding they had ever been to. The staff was extremely helpful and it was the perfect evening. The main issue is with time - you can't have the wedding until the museum closes and while they do allow you to enter earlier in the day to get ready, you're still limited in how far beforehand you're allowed to get there so we were rushing to get ready and get photos done beforehand. It was definitely a beautiful, fun, memorable wedding though and would do it again in a heart beat. -
Quality of service
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