It doesn’t get much better than spending a warm summer night on the Jersey shore, unless you’re celebrating love and a happily married couple at a location right on the water. It’s beautiful photographs like Jamie and Eric’s that truly represent “the calm before the storm”. Although this locale was destroyed during Hurricane Sandy, this seaside soiree has us not only reminiscing of sweet distant memories, but serves as a gentle reminder that there is hope for the future of the New Jersey coastline.

“The end of August is bittersweet, yet an exciting time for people (like us) who grew up on the New Jersey coast. Those few short months of summer heat start to dwindle away and the occasional breeze of cool air starts to give this feeling of new beginnings. But something else happens, too. The vacationers head home and the Jersey shore returns to its simple and beautiful form. It’s the way that we love it and the best time of the summer to beat the shore traffic, grab a good book, and soak in the last of what the beautiful summer days have to offer…in peace. That is why we chose August 25th. It was one of the last weekends of the summer and that nostalgia made it feel so right.”

“I only tried on about four gowns before I tried this one on and I knew it was the one. I felt like Marilyn Monroe in this dress! My mom, sisters, and best friend’s faces said it all when I walked out. I felt sexy and elegant.”

Joselyn of Majestic Entertainment captured the essence of the wedding day beautifully in a photojournalistic approach. Not only did she help calm the brides nerves before the church, but made everyone feel comfortable being in front of the camera. “Joselyn has such a great soul and has an incredible personality. [We] had a blast taking the beach pictures!” exclaimed Jamie.

Jamie’s bridesmaids wore floor-length pink silk and chiffon dresses with a flower accent.

When it came time to choose a reception location, The Water’s Edge made a great impression on Jamie and Eric. “We wanted a venue that matched our personalities. We had family coming from other countries so we wanted a strong representation of New Jersey. We also knew friends of friends who were married at the venue and they loved it. The window that looked out over the ocean (right behind the sweetheart table) was a great selling point. They also had lights to shine out over the water so everyone could see the ocean at night.” commented the groom.

Jamie and Eric shared their first dance as newlyweds to Etta James’ “At Last”, which the bride pre-recorded. “I wanted to showcase my wife’s beautiful voice and I think everyone really felt how personal our first dance was.”

Cocktail hour served guests a variety of options including a raw bar, mashed potato station, and taco station. Dinner began with a mozzarella and tomato appetizer followed by a strawberry and walnut summer salad. For dinner, guests had a choice of salmon, chicken Marsala or filet Mignon. Crème brulee and a chocolate fountain was served for dessert, in addition to wedding cake.

Tell us about your wedding proposal: Eric surprised me and proposed in our apartment when I least expected it. He decorated everything with flower petals and candles and hid a camera behind the couch to capture my reaction. He also played a video of pictured of us through the years and set it to the our favorite song, “No One” by Alicia Keys. I was a teary eyed mush and immediately knew that this was the start of something great.
Bride’s favorite memory of the day: Reading our vows to each other and looking into Eric’s tear filled eyes was a moment I will never forget.
Groom’s favorite memory of the day: My favorite memory that I won’t ever forget was the first time I saw Jamie walking down the aisle. It was difficult for me to choke back all the emotion I felt. She looked absolutely beautiful and literally took my breath away. Her dress was even more beautiful than I had imagined.
What was the most exciting part of planning your wedding? For me it was just experiencing new things with Jamie. We got to know each other a lot better and the process as a whole was fun. I would do it all again in a heartbeat (even with all the stress).
Where did you go on your honeymoon? We decided to be practical and splurge on a new home first to start our future together, The cruise is coming soon and we are very excited.
Do you have any advice for couples that are planning their wedding? Have fun and don’t stress about the little details too much because life is beautifully flawed. Nothing will go exactly the way you want it to so don’t try to control every aspect of the day.  Just go with the flow and enjoy every moment because it’s over in a heartbeat.
What are you currently enjoying or looking forward to as a couple? We are currently enjoying being first time homeowners and look forward to becoming first time parents this Fall!

Jamie & Eric
August 25, 2012
Merri-Makers at The Water’s Edge • Sea Bright, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony Location: The First Presbyterian Tower Hill Church / Celebrant: Theresa Swenson / Reception Location: The Water’s Edge / Caterer: Merri-Makers / Photographer: Joselyn Diaz of Majestic Entertainment / Entertainment: Majestic Entertainment / Florist: Boxwood Gardens / Limousine Service: Andiamo Limousine / Cake Designer: Bella Palermo / Bridal Salon & Veil: Castle Couture / Shoes: Maggie Sottero / Formal Attire: Love Lane Tuxedo / Invitations: The Papery / Favors: Personalized Picture Frames & Personalized Hershey Kisses / Hair Salon: Milagro Spa / Makeup Studio: MAC Cosmetics / Jeweler: Jared, The Galleria of Jewelry / Honeymoon Locations: Caribbean Cruise

Every bride wants her groom (and her groomsmen) to be well-groomed and styled to a T for the big day. The tuxedo or suit, tie or bow tie, shoes, and boutonniere are all elements that tie together HIS look for the big day. Here are ten classic boutonniere styles that will accent the guy’s lapel perfectly!

Photography by Offbeat Productions

Photography by 217 Photography

Photography by Del Sol Photography

Photography Daniel J Photography

Photography by The Studio Photographers

Photography by AhmetZe

Photography by Lost Artist Photography

Photography by David Eric Photography

Photography by Anna Rozenblat Photography

Photography by David + Amy Lau Photography

We can all agree that Paris, France is THE city to embrace and celebrate love! It’s the perfect locale where passion explodes at every corner; from the breathtaking scenery, historic streets, and breathtaking landmarks that has us dreaming of romance. Mara and Conrad’s fairy tale wedding captured by Maxime Desessard Photographe is one that will not only have you fall madly in love for the City of Lights, but will have you ‘oooh la la-ing’ over every one of their wedding images.

When Mara and Conrad began planning their wedding, they knew Paris, France, was the perfect locale to host their destination wedding as this location holds emotional significance to their relationship. Additionally, it was an ideal geographical location for both families to meet in the middle. Mara and Conrad agreed, “It was surreal to have so many of our closest family and friends come from different corners of the world to be there for us, meet each other, and to experience a city that has meant so much to us as a couple.”

“It was surreal to have so many of our closest family and friends come literally from different corners of the world (from New Jersey to South Africa) to be there for us, to all meet each other, and to experience a city that has meant so much to us as a couple.”

The ceremony took place at The American Church, where the bride walked down the aisle wearing a stunning blush-colored Sareh Nouri wedding gown featuring a fitted bodice and dramatic organza skirt embellished with roses. Conrad sported a classic black Hugo Boss tuxedo with ivory bow tie.

ollowing the ceremony, the newlyweds, along with their guests, boarded the Seine River Cruise for their cocktail hour. As they viewed many prominent sights of Paris, guests were served a variety of specialty hors d’oeuvres prepared by Traiteur Tradition Française, while being entertained by La Planche à Dixie jazz band.

At the end of the boat cruise, the celebration continued at the historical Restaurant Le Procope, which was known for hosting intellectuals, revolutionaries, and philosophers in its day.

Centerpieces of ivory and blush roses completed each tablescape design, as Mara and Conrad wanted the main focus to be kept on Restaurant Le Procope’s dramatic architecture.

Tell us about your wedding proposal: Conrad proposed in South Africa (where he is from), in a beach town along South Africa’s garden route, where he spent summers growing up. He proposed on the terrace of our room, overlooking a beautiful sunset. I was completely surprised because I thought he was just being extra romantic that day for our anniversary. I started crying when I realized what was happening, and of course, said yes!
Bride’s favorite memory of the day: It had been raining in the morning, so walking out onto the boat after the ceremony and seeing the sun come out just in time for the cruise down the Seine was probably our favorite memory. That, and seeing our families and friends from all over the word meet each other and enjoy each other’s company.
What was the most exciting part of planning your wedding? Tasting the food and cake was definitely the most fun. We also enjoyed an excuse to take dancing lessons!
Where did you go on your honeymoon? We went to southern Spain for our honeymoon because we wanted to stay in Europe, but still have nice warm weather in mid-October. We started out on the Costa del Sol, in a beach town outside of Malaga, and rented a car which gave us the flexibility to take day trips to Marbella, Ronda, Grenada. We spent a few days relaxing in Seville, and ended with a few days in Madrid before flying back to New York. We loved trying all of the different tapas and tasting the delicious Spanish wine in the different cities.
Do you have any advice for couples that are planning their wedding? Have fun [with the planning], even when its gets stressful. In the end, it is an incredibly happy day that you are planning and nothing can really go that badly in the end. Also remain true to yourselves and not feel pressured to stick to any specific traditions that don’t seem meaningful to you. Do what makes you both happy!

Mara & Conrad
October 13, 2012
Restaurant Le Procope • Paris, France

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony Location: The American Church / Celebrant: Dr. Joseph Indano / Reception Location: Restaurant Le Procope / Cocktail Hour Caterer: Traiteur Tradition Française / Photographer: Maxime Desessard Photographe / Wedding Coordinator: Dreams in Paris / Ceremony Music: Eloise Renand (Violinist) & Fred Gramann (Organist) / Entertainment: La Planche à Dixie / Florist: L’atelier Vertige Marais / Limousine Service: Star Limos / Cake Designer: Wedding Cakes Avenue / Bridal Salon & Veil: Exquisite Bride / Shoes: Badgley Mischka / Formal Attire: Hugo Boss / Invitations: Invitations by JoAnn / Favors: Miniature Wine Bottles / Hair Salon & Makeup Studio: Murielle Palace / Jeweler: Timeless Diamonds / Honeymoon Locations: Southern Spain

Photo by McKay Images

Photo by Contemporary Image

Photo by Jessica Lauren Photography

Photo by Anna Rozenblat Photography

Photo by J. Paul Studios

Photo by Bird and Branch Photography

Photo by Shira Weinberger Photography

Photo by KSS Photography

Photo by Ricky Restiano Photography

Photo by Stephanie Jones Photography

Photo by Infinity Photography

What better way to celebrate wedding Wednesday than by sharing this classic purple wedding from the Crystal Ballroom at the Radisson Hotel of Freehold! Lena and Christopher’s love story is as real as they come. The two were only fifteen when they met during the Babe Ruth Little League World Series and although they went their separate ways, they reconnected through a mutual friend years later. (Lena even admitted that she let Christopher slip past her once, but wasn’t willing to do so again!) Take a look at their magical images that 217 Photography brought to life beautifully.

“Starting around Monday of that week, the weather predicted rain. It was a high percentage and I had a feeling we weren’t getting around the rain. At first, I was devastated. We didn’t know where we’d take pictures and the flow of the day could have been ruined. For some reason, that morning when I woke up to pouring rain, it didn’t bother me one bit. I was overjoyed and so excited to be marrying my best friend, I shockingly forgot about the rain. The day was perfect. It was almost on cue when the rain stopped just in time for us to exit the church, get in some amazing pictures, and get to the ballroom before the rain started up again. The only way I can describe those events is pure luck.”

Lena’s bouquet featured white roses and a touch of lilac roses scattered throughout.

Chosen for its accommodating staff, a large ballroom to hold their guest list comfortably, and the ease of having on-location accommodations, the reception was held at The Crystal Ballroom at the Radisson Hotel of Freehold. Additionally, Lena and Christopher liked how the facility was in close proximity to their ceremony location.

Guests were served a variety of options during cocktail hour including a pasta station, carving station, smashed potato bar, eggplant rollatini, lemon chicken, fried calamari, and passed hors d’oeuvres of crab cakes, spring rolls, and wraps. For dinner, guests had a choice of ginger-infused salmon with honey glaze or filet mignon.

Lena and Christopher held the spotlight for their first dance as newlyweds to”I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz.

Tell us about your wedding proposal: I knew Chris was the one soon after we first started dating. We got along perfectly and he always made me laugh. Being around him was addicting and I felt as though I never had to try. Our relationship came natural. Chris proposed on the beach in Myrtle Beach on August 18, 2011. He had wanted to do it at sunrise, but I was in no mood to wake up that early on vacation. Luckily, he just went with the flow and did it on our early afternoon walk instead. The moment was a blur. I can just remember before and after, not during. I was so excited he said I could barely speak. I had a feeling the proposal was coming, but nothing can prepare you for the actual moment. It was perfect!
Bride’s favorite memory of the day: Chris and I promised each other that before the night ended, we would stop, look around and take it all in. As the night’s end neared, he took me by my hand and we stepped off to the side of the dance floor. We looked around and noticed all the people who were there to support us and our love for each other. We took in the laughing, dancing, and love that was all around that room. It was the most magical day and that moment really helped it sink in.
Groom’s favorite memory of the day: The best part of our ceremony was hearing us pronounced as Mrs & Mrs. Jones and getting to officially make Lena my wife. It was such a great feeling knowing it was done! We had waited a year to hear those words. All the planning had lead to that and it was great! At the reception, our first dance was very memorable. I remember looking at each other in amazement that our day had been so perfect. It was nice to escape with her for the 3 minutes we had together on the dance floor.
Where did you go on your honeymoon? Chris’s parents generously gifted us with our honeymoon! They had a timeshare through RCI and we were able to pick from hundreds of beautiful resorts. We wanted something that was fun and relaxing. When we came across the website for the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in the Dominican Republic, it looked perfect! It had so many different activities, restaurants, pools, and bars that could definitely keep us busy for a week. The reviews we saw were very positive and we couldn’t wait to try it out.
Do you have any advice for couples that are planning their wedding? It’s hard to put this into perspective, but as much as you want the day to be perfect, it is only one day. It’s the promise you make to each other for the rest of your lives that is most important. The little things didn’t matter once I woke up that morning. All I cared about was marrying my best friend. The day will be perfect no matter what as long as you remember what you are gaining.

Lena & Christopher
July 20, 2012
Crystal Ballroom • Freehold, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony Location: Saint Anthony’s Catholic Church / Celebrant: Deacon Jim Knipper / Reception Location: The Radisson Hotel of Freehold / Photographer: 217 Photography / Videographer: First Floor Films / Entertainment: DJ Available / Florist: Petal Pushers, Inc. / Limousine Service: Platinum Limo / Cake Designer: Chocolate Carousel / Bridal Salon: The Bridal Suite / Headpiece & Veil: Illusions / Shoes: Zappos / Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse / Invitations: Michael’s / Favors & Photo Booth: Go Festive / Hair Salon: Headways Salon / Makeup Artist: Unforgettable Faces / Jeweler: David’s Bridal / Honeymoon Locations: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino―Punta Cana, DR

It’s a beautiful day in New Jersey! We’re so excited that spring has arrived and that mother Nature finally is gifting us with warm weather. As you all enjoy the outdoors today, here’s a breathtaking Beach Chic wedding that will have you dreaming of an oceanfront oasis.

Tara wore a stunning Suzanne Neville wedding gown made of French Chantilly lace and a sewn-in corset.

From the morning preparations, ceremony, and throughout the reception, Shira Weinberger captured the special moments in a photojournalistic approach. “Shira perfectly captured the day without being intrusive or demanding, and we felt she managed to capture every single moment that brought us joy,” commented Tara. The couple was also pleased with their videographer, Exo Photography, who caught their wedding day on video.

Tara and Joe’s 8-pound Shih Tzu trotter made the perfect flower girl, along with two-year old Sophia.

Chosen for its beachfront property with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and beautiful décor throughout the facility, the ceremony and reception were held at the Westhampton Bath and Tennis Club. Tara and Joe also liked that the facility was centrally located for their guests who were traveling from New York City and Westchester. It was a beautiful day for a beach wedding [just one week before Hurricane Sandy made landfall].

“Our ceremony was held on the beach, in the sand behind the Westhampton Bath and Tennis Club. It was the most beautiful backdrop you could imagine. The sun was shining bright and the waves were crashing behind us, all of this…just one week before Hurricane Sandy struck! All of our guests were given sandals and matching, engraved pashminas as they were seated onto the white wicker chairs lined with baby blue cones filled with petals…and placed alongside gorgeous lanterns with candles. One of my favorite parts of the ceremony was when we signed our Ketubah, which was anything but traditional! My younger sister made it from a picture from the Hubble telescope, knowing how much I love NASA and efforts to explore the final frontier!”

“Our cocktail hour was held outside near the pool area of the Bath and Tennis Club. It was a wonderful ambiance under the stars, with music from our brass quintet lighting up the night. Our guests couldn’t stop raving about the food and many stations. There was a raw food bar and pasta station among many others. The stations were decorated very beach chic and it felt like we were transported to an island in the Caribbean!”

“We really wanted to keep things beach-chic, not too traditional! So some our flowers were put in mason jars on the tables, alongside iron baskets and other rustic containers!”

Dinner began with a warm goat cheese and leek tart, followed by a choice of breast of chicken roulade or filet mignon for the main entrée. Guests were treated to miniature key lime pies, chocolate-dipped strawberries, doughnut holes with dipping sauce, and miniature ice-cream cones served butler style, in addition to their red velvet with gianduja mousse wedding cake.

After being announced into the ballroom as the new Mr. & Mrs., the couple participated in the traditional Horah, while Hank Lane Music & Productions got the party started with live entertainment. They played a variety of music that had guests dancing the entire night. In order to incorporate a feel of local music, Joe surprised Tara with a special guest appearance from Taylor Dayne, who serenaded the couple.

Tell us about your wedding proposal: I am a lifelong advocate of space, nasa and exploration of the final frontier. It is my great passion outside of journalism. So Joe filmed the 30-second commercial inside the Hudson River museum planetarium in Yonkers. As I was about to get off the anchor desk on 3-10-12, my director told me in my ear…oh don’t leave! There is a big mistake with the show that we have to correct. They said watch the monitor and we’ll play back the mistake. It was Joe’s commerical that aired instead! In 30 seconds, he compared our love to all the coolest miracles in the universe, but said of all the ‘stars’ I shine the brightest for him and would I accept his hand in marriage. Next thing I knew, Joe, my co-workers and my boss all came pouring into the studio. He got down on one knee and popped the question. Everyone at work knew, I have no idea how they were able to keep the secret. I was stunned but thankfully had enough wits to say yes! He had apparently asked my parents permission to wed weeks before!
Bride’s favorite memory of the day: Looking out in the ballroom after we were announced and realizing everyone I had ever loved our cared about for the past 34 years was in one room, to share in our joy!
Groom’s favorite memory of the day: The beach ceremony and seeing my wife for the FIRST time in her wedding dress.
Where did you go on your honeymoon? Joe wanted to explore his roots and I wanted to go somewhere that was off the beaten path. We decided to start out in the picturesque Amalfi coast where Joe’s parents were born. It was his first time and very emotional for him. We met cousins of his that he’d never met! It was so special. Then we did the 20-hour trek to Mauritius! What an unbelievable island and worth the shelp! We did everything from water sports to private meals on the ocean to ziplining to walking with lions! Next it was off to Cape Town. We enjoyed trips to lovely vineyards and before we knew, it was time to head home!
Do you have any advice for couples that are planning their wedding? It became very overwhelming at times trying to manage all the planning for such a large, detailed event. Best advice I ever got was from a friend who told me to make a simple list of everything that had to be done (my list had 59 items) and tackle 1 maybe 2 tasks per week! Also, do your research on your honeymoon planning. We did not know it was a national holiday in France when we booked our Mauritius honeymoon and the place was filled to the brim with children and young families!

Tara & Joe
October 20, 2012
Westhampton Bath & Tennis Club  • Westhampton Beach, NY

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony & Reception Location: Westhampton Bath & Tennis Club / Officiant: Rabbi Mallamy / Caterer: Robbins Wolfe Eventeurs / Wedding Coordinator: Unforgettable Hamptons Events / Photographer: Shira Weinberger / Videographer: Exo Photography & Cinema / Entertainment: Hank Lane Music & Productions / Florist: House of Flowers / Limousine Service: Capricorn Limousines / Cake Designer: Martine’s Fine Bake Shoppe / Bridal Salon & Veil: Wedding Atelier / Shoes: Gianfranco Ferre / Formal Attire: Joseph Abboud / Invitations: Passion Paper / Favors: Pashmina’s & Sandals / Hair Salon: DM Luxury / Makeup Artist: Denny / Jeweler: Cartier / Photo Booth: Photobooths by NY Digital Memories / Dove Release: Lasting Memories by Sharon / Honeymoon Locations: Amalfi Coast- Italy & Africa

We’re so excited to be sharing part 2 of Tanya and James’ romantic wedding at Nanina’s In The Park. When we asked them to describe their special day, the couple said it was “perfect and the day went off without a hitch.” Not only was the weather perfect, their vendors all worked well together to make their wedding better than the couple ever imagined. Tanya and James’ wedding reception looked like so much fun, their photos make us want to get up and dance! Thank you to Daniel J Photography who caught all the fun in a photojournalistic style.

Choosing a reception location was an easy decision for Tanya and James. Upon visiting Nanina’s In The Park for the first time, the couple was impressed by the pristine grounds, stellar ballroom, reputable service, and the delectable cuisine, which was an important factor for the bride’s large Italian family. “After meeting with Tom Casella, we knew all of our wishes and dreams would be taken care of,” noted the bride. The staff went above and beyond the couple’s expectations. “They promised we wouldn’t have to worry about a thing, and they were absolutely correct,” James mentioned.

The couple admitted they are not very good dancers, but through their dance lessons with Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Greenbrook, they were able to learn a basic routine right before their big day. “We didn’t look like professions but we knew the steps that worked with our song, and we had a great time performing it!” exclaimed Tanya. “It was a great experience and the lessons proved to be a nice break [from wedding planning], ” added James.

Following their first dance to “Lucky” by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat, Groove Place got the party started with live entertainment. Their band played music for all generations, including classic rock to today’s hits.

Working with Le Petit Gateau was so much fun! The cake tasting was delicious and because my grandmother wasn’t able to attend, they actually gave us an additional tasting to bring home to her. Our wedding cake was four tiers, consisting of red velvet with cream cheese, vanilla cake with chocolate ganache and strawberries, and vanilla cake with cannoli filling.

Tanya tossed her bouquet to “Single Ladies” by Beyonce.

Bride’s favorite memory of the day: My favorite memory of the day was standing up at the altar and professing my vows to James.
Groom’s favorite memory of the day: I really enjoyed our first dance together but my favorite memory of the day had to be seeing Tanya walk in to the church for the first time.
Where did you go on your honeymoon?  We decided on Hawaii because we wanted to go to an island that was different from all the Caribbean. We went to Maui first and stayed at The Fairmont Kea Lani and then Oahu for one night at The Royal Hawaiian. To break up the trip home we stayed at The Carneros Inn in Napa California, which was the most luxurious place I have ever stayed at! In Hawaii we did a lot of excursions and activities and in Napa is when we really just relaxed as though we didn’t have a worry in the world.
Do you have any advice for couples that are planning their wedding?  Don’t get too caught up in all the details of planning a wedding. Be sure to not lose site of the overall picture and remember that it will be one of the most amazing days of your entire life regardless of what color table clothes you choose.

Tanya & James
August 24, 2013
Nanina’s In The Park • Belleville, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony Location: St. Teresa of Avila Parish / Celebrant: Monsignor Raymond J. Kupke / Reception Location: Nanina’s In The Park / Photographer: Daniel J Photography / Videographer: Joe Minnella Cinematography / Entertainment: Groove Place / Florist: Floral Designs by Cindy / Limousine Service: Asher’s Limo / Cake Designer: Le Petit Gateau / Bridal Salon: Kleinfeld / Veil: I Do, I Do / Shoes: Kate Spade / Formal Attire: Cozy Formalwear / Invitations: Invitations by Danielle / Favors: Nanina’s In The Park / Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist: My Cinderella’s Dream / Jeweler: George Press Jewelers / Dance Lessons: Arthur Murray Dance Studio, Greenbrook / Photo Booth: Elite Sound Entertainment / Honeymoon Locations: Hawaii and Napa, CA

While it might be hard to jump right into the start of a new week due to the Monday blues, we have a dose of loveliness that will brighten your day and make your Monday evening a little more bearable! We’re starting our week off swooning over this oh-so-pretty wedding that’s full of romance and endless moments of pure joy. From the bride’s preparation to the ceremony and reception at Nanina’s In The Park (that needed a post of its own), Tanya and James’ August nuptials are ones you won’t want to miss!

My dress was a fitted sweetheart neckline, A-line gown designed by Romona Keveza. The dress fit perfect and was a light fabric, which made it excellent for a hot August day. Although the dress itself was pretty plain I wore a “Blossom Veils” belt that was a statement piece and my favorite part of my entire look.

The wedding day began early for the bride and her bridesmaids, who were pampered to perfection with the help of My Cinderella’s Dream. “Mari was easygoing and was able to style my hair and apply my makeup better than I ever dreamed it could be,” noted the bride. Tanya also noted Mari was accommodating when two of her bridesmaids decided to add on additional services. “She did an amazing job, and my girls looked stunning,” added the bride.

We love Tanya’s monochromatic choice of light peach garden Dutch roses

The bridesmaids wore cocktail-style, Alfred Sung dresses in the color paradise.

We fell in love with St. Teresa’s church when my cousin got married there three years earlier. The church is romantic and breathtaking, which fit our theme perfectly. We ended up moving to the area so it will continue to be our church as our family grows!

How did you two meet? James and I met my freshman and his sophomore year of college when his best friend started dating my best friend. His best friend had a “New years eve-eve party” on December 30th and I attended. I knew James was the one from very early on. He was different from any other guy I had ever met. He would do anything for anyone and he made me incredibly happy. We always had fun together and complimented each other so well.
Tell us about your wedding proposal: James purposed exactly six years from the day we met. Although we had been dating for six years I always mentioned we should go ice skating but we never had the opportunity. He made our first ice skating experience a memorable one after proposing on the ice at Rockefeller Center in New York City!

Tanya & James
August 24, 2013
Nanina’s In The Park • Belleville, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony Location: St. Teresa of Avila Parish / Celebrant: Monsignor Raymond J. Kupke / Reception Location: Nanina’s In The Park / Photographer: Daniel J Photography / Videographer: Joe Minnella Cinematography / Entertainment: Groove Place / Florist: Floral Designs by Cindy / Limousine Service: Asher’s Limo / Cake Designer: Le Petit Gateau / Bridal Salon: Kleinfeld / Veil: I Do, I Do / Shoes: Kate Spade / Formal Attire: Cozy Formalwear / Invitations: Invitations by Danielle / Favors: Nanina’s In The Park / Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist: My Cinderella’s Dream / Jeweler: George Press Jewelers / Dance Lessons: Arthur Murray Dance Studio, Greenbrook / Photo Booth: Elite Sound Entertainment / Honeymoon Locations: Hawaii and Napa, CA

Christina and Kevin originally planned on capturing their engagement session where they first met at the Jersey Shore, but due to Hurricane Sandy, the two had to find a new location. Princeton, New Jersey is a gorgeous area. Not only is it home to Ivy League Princeton University and Palmer Square (a fabulous shopping area on Nassau Street), but there are also areas that boast private and serene landscapes along the Delaware and Raritan Canal. Brittany Ostrov Photography captured this duo perfectly as they took some time from planning their wedding to just be themselves. We love how natural these two are on camera and look forward to seeing their wedding photographs later this summer!

While you’re bundled up trying to stay warm during what we hope is our last snow storm of the season, we’re brightening your day with this lovely engagement session captured by Brittany Ostrov Photography. This E-session took place at Eagle Rock Reservation, a location with scenic acres of hills and streams, as well as the NYC skyline allowing for wonderful images with a little of two vibes. From the bride: “We met our freshman year at Columbia. We were talking within the first week of college and dating by the second month. So we’ve been together for about six and a half years. Jacob proposed March 12, 2012. He was visiting me in Brownsville, Texas for a week. After a day at the beach, we were relaxing around the swimming pool at my apartment complex when he started telling me how much he loved me. Then we started to talk about a song he had sent to me earlier in the year titled, “Love is Not a Fight” by Warren Barfield. In particular, he used a part of the lyrics to tell me that he would spend the rest of his life fighting for me and asked if I would spend the rest of my life fighting for him. With that he gave me my beautiful ring and we were engaged!”