Ashley Biden and Howard Krein tie the knot

Ashley Biden and Howard Krein © David Lienemann/Official White House Photo

Ashley Biden, daughter of Vice President of the United States of America Joe Biden, wed Philadelphia surgeon Howard Krein on Saturday. The couple tied the knot at the St. Joseph on the Brandywine Roman Catholic Church in Greenville, the same church where Ashley was baptized. The wedding ceremony combined Catholic (Ashley) and Jewish (Howard) traditions.

Joe Biden walked his daughter Ashley down the aisle on Saturday. The VP was very emotional about giving his youngest daughter away. He said to People Magazine, "I kept telling Ash, we've got to open up the church and practice walking up and down the aisle so I can handle it." The bride wore a dramatic mermaid gown with elaborate ruffles at the bottom, designed by Vera Wang.

The newlyweds, their family and friends celebrated the nuptials at the Biden's lakeside family home in Wilmington. The reception and family-style dinner were attended by some 200 guests.

Ashley, 30, and Howard, 45, have been a couple since the summer of 2010, when they were introduced to each other by Ashley's older brother Beau. Howard proposed in October 2011, after getting permission from proud father Joe. The VP said, "This is the right guy. And he's getting a helluva woman."

The couple is now off on their honeymoon. The destination was kept a surprise from Ashley by Howard, until Saturday evening. They will make their home in Philadelphia.