What better way to start off a new week than with a classic and ultra-glamorous wedding captured beautifully by One Perfect Moment. Black and white color schemes NEVER get old. They’re romantic and classic, but can be easily be transformed into a trendy affair when paired with accent shades of fuchsia and gold. From Jennifer’s stunning Pnina Tornai gown and Jimmy Choo wedding shoes to the smallest of details, this couple’s over-the-top wedding definitely showed off their big personalities. Get ready to swoon over all of the gorgeousness below!

“I absolutely fell in love with my Pnina Tornai wedding gown once I put it on. I never wanted to take it off! It was an ivory, mermaid-style dress with a sweetheart neckline and a dropped waist.”

“I love sparkle, so I chose Jimmy Choo “Clue” Silver Glitter Slingback Pumps. They were so comfortable and striking in pictures.”

How adorable is this photo of the bride and her flower girl?

Jennifer’s bridesmaids looked gorgeous in their classic black satin and lace Jim Hjelm dresses.

“We interviewed over 15 photographers and couldn’t find anyone we were impressed with. Within ten minutes of meeting Neil we knew we wanted to hire him to capture our wedding photographs. We felt like his photos told a story. His work seemed natural and in the moment.”

Upon visiting The Venetian for the first time, Jennifer and Christopher were warmly greeted and were impressed by the knowledgeable staff who answered all questions and concerns. Additionally, they were pleased with the manicured grounds and décor that fit their style. “We wanted a wow factor and The Venetian definitely delivered,” noted Jennifer.

Tablescapes consisted of Venetian glass candelabras with black lampshades and glass pedestals filled with white hydrangeas and pink and hot pink spray roses. Also set on black satin and matte stripped linens were gold charger plates, solid black linen napkins, gold dinner menus embellished with a rhinestone, and gold favor boxes.

In addition to the wedding cake, guests were treated to an assortment of cakes, cookies, fruit sushi, a candy buffet, cotton candy, fresh waffles and crepes, among much more.

Jennifer and Christopher performed a choreographed first dance to “It’s Your Love” by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill.

Tell us about your wedding proposal: Chris proposed on a vacation in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Chris and I arrived on Saturday and our parents joined us on vacation that Wednesday. Following dinner, we went for a walk near the water and Chris stepped off to talk to my father and later learned that he asked my father, in broken Italian, for my hand in marriage. We walked to a beautiful outdoor shopping plaza called Luxury Avenue across from the marina, where Chris asked our mothers and I to sit on the steps to take a picture. He handed the camera to my father, got down on one knee, and proposed.

Bride’s favorite memory of the day: It’s so hard to pick just one, but if I had to pick one moment, it was when we walked down the staircase of our wedding reception room as “Mr. & Mrs. Piano”.
Groom’s favorite memory of the day: The moment the ceremony music started and I was standing at the altar and got first peak at her. After we said our vows I looked over at her and her face was glowing. She looked stunning.
What was the most exciting part of planning your wedding? The most exciting part of planning our wedding was gathering all of the inspirations for our day then seeing it unfold.
Where did you go on your honeymoon? We went on a ten-day Celebrity Cruise aboard the Celebrity Equinox. We visited Rome, Naples/Capri, Sicily, Athens, Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos & Ephesus. Following the cruise we spent one week traveling the Almalfi Coast.
Do you have any advice for couples that are planning their wedding? Don’t wait until the last minute. We had a year and a half to plan our wedding, but the time just flew by. Before we knew it we were weeks away and still had tasks to complete- such as getting the tuxedos.
What are you currently enjoying or looking forward to as a couple? We love to travel and to experience new things together! Every year we go on two vacations. We enjoy seeing different cultures and meeting new people. We like to live our life to the fullest, so we are constantly keeping busy.

Ceremony Location: Church of Saint Ann / Celebrant: Father Dominic Dellaporte / Reception Location: The Venetian / Photographer: One Perfect Moment / Cinematographer: Fiore Films / Entertainment: Dash of Class DJ Entertainment & Smokey Starr/ Florist: Something Nice Floral Designs/ Limousine Service: First Class Limousine Service / Cake Designer: Palermo’s Bakery / Bridal Salon: Kleinfeld / Headpiece: Thomas Knoell / Veil: Pnina Tornai / Shoes: Jimmy Choo / Formal Attire: V.I.P. Tuxedos / Invitations: Made by Bride / Favors: Godiva / Hair Salon: I Do Hair & Makeup / Makeup Artist: Makeup by Marissa Pascone / Jeweler: Hearts on Fire / Dance Lessons: Shall We Dance / Cigar Roller: Tony Santana / Honeymoon Location: Celebrity Equinox Cruise

Happy Wedding Wednesday! Get ready to fall in love with Jillian and Mark’s fall-inspired wedding! This wedding will warm your hearts from the stunning autumn colors, caramel apples and a unique signature drink created by the bride’s father. There is so much gorgeousness combined throughout this affair, including some of the most magical portraits captured by Danielle Hopkins Photography.

“I fell in love with my ivory, Jim Hjelm lace and organza gown the minute I tried it on! Fortunately, I had worked part time modeling dresses for the bridal store which I ordered the dress from, so I knew what style dress suited my body best. I knew I definitely did not want strapless as I absolutely hate having to pull up dresses when they start to fall! My dress, which featured lace straps to my shoulders and an open back, was comfortable, light weight, and made me feel absolutely beautiful! I actually took the original belt off the dress (a feather beaded flower) and used it to wrap the stem of my bouquet, and instead, added a completely beaded leaf designed belt. I seriously love my dress so much that at the end of the night- 3:00 in the morning as we shut the bar down-I honestly felt sad taking it off!”

Jillian rose gold Badgley Mischka shoes complemented her gown beautifully. She added a personalized touch by asking her mother and bridesmaids to sign the bottom using a purple pen.

Mark proposed to Jillian with a square halo engagement ring setting with a round one carat diamond and split diamond band.

Designed by Petal Pushers, Jillian carried a stunning lush bouquet featuring a mixture of each of her bridesmaids flowers with a touch of ivory roses and orange calla lilies. A locket to honor loved ones was attached to the lace wrapped stems.

“Mark went to high school with Danielle, so we checked out her website shortly after getting engaged and saw she did beautiful work, and immediately booked her for our engagement pictures. They turned out beautifully that it was no brainer hiring her for our wedding. She, along with her talented husband Chad, are laid back, as they make you feel comfortable in front of the camera. As a result, we have beautiful photographs capturing all aspects of our most memorable day! We took pictures at our childhood homes, church, and all over the grounds of the Mill. Some of our favorites are outside by the beautiful lake.”

“The Mill was only the third venue we saw and we both immediately fell in love with everything: the location (Spring Lake Heights), the modern, yet warm atmosphere, delicious food, and above all the staff. Donald Rodgers, the CEO and site manager was the epitome of a venue manager; he treated us as though he had known us for years, a common feeling when visiting The Mill. The staff makes you feel at home. Throughout our two year engagement, The Mill staff went above and beyond to help us create our dream event. We cannot thank them enough for the way they made our dreams come true after Hurricane Sandy had devastated the area. Thankfully, The Mill was not damaged, but the town of Spring Lake was without power and Don, his son Don Jr., and our wedding coordinator worked diligently to make sure our wedding reception happened (we were concerned as the weddings the weekend prior had to be canceled/postponed due to the power outage). It wasn’t until Wednesday night, two days before our wedding, that Don called us with the good news- they had power. Our wedding was a go! In one day (as our wedding was that Friday), the staff at The Mill prepared for our wedding. My father and I have both worked in the restaurant business, and we know how difficult it must have been to turn out a wedding in less than 36 hours, but the staff, still dealing with their own issues as a result of Sandy, did just that and then some. Our guests were treated royally, the food was fresh and delectable, and as result, Don was recognized in my father’s speech. We can honestly say we will continue to patronize the Mill for years to come.”

Jillian and Mark’s centerpieces were black lanterns with an ivory candle surrounded by a ring of antique hydrangeas with deep purple and orange accents.

The newlyweds held the spotlight to “I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz, as family and friends surrounded the dance floor.

Jillian and Mark opted for two signature drinks for guests to enjoy throughout their wedding. “Fall in Love”, which featured Laird’s apple brandy was created by Jill’s father, a former bartender.  They also had “Tequila Sunrises” available, which is Mark’s favorite wedding drink.

“Chris Mathews, our D.J., was fantastic! He played all the must haves on our play list which included everything from Sinatra (Mark’s favorite singer) to The Temptations, 80s hits to LMFAO. We even played a polka (in honor of our eastern European heritage) after we cut the cake.”

Tell us about your wedding proposal: Mark and I dated for about two years when we were in our late teens/early twenties. We broke up for a while, and it wasn’t until five years later, when I asked him to meet back up for coffee, that I knew he was definitely the one I wanted to grow old with. Though we are opposites in many ways, we have the same values and beliefs, and ultimately, a deep respect and love for one another. Our proposal wasn’t anything grand: he proposed on a Thursday night, in gym shorts, in his childhood bedroom. To me, it was perfect!
Bride’s favorite memory of the day: Our first dance; it was emotional because we honestly didn’t think we were going to be able to have that moment a few days before!
Groom’s favorite memory of the day: Seeing Jill for the first time. She was absolutely stunning!
What was the most exciting part of planning your wedding? Though I honestly enjoyed planning our wedding, I loved spending time with my dad rehearsing our dance. We are quite an emotional pair, so I was thrilled when my dad agreed to surprise our guests with a fast dance combination, avoiding a blubbering scene that was surely to come. I am a part time dance teacher, and my father came into the studio on Saturday mornings to rehearse our number. We began the dance with our real song, “You Can Depend on Me” by the Duprees because I grew up listening to Doo Wop with my dad. Then we broke out into his go to fast song favorite, the Black Eyed Peas “I Gotta Feeling”. At 65, my father did his dancing daughter proud by breaking out into the robot, throwing dice, and shimmy shaking his way across the dance floor. I will cherish that routine forever!
Where did you go on your honeymoon? We went to the Secrets Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. It was recommended by family and friends, and booking it was convenient because you could book your hotel and flight all in one. They also had a honeymoon registry, which our family and friends graciously gave us money towards excursions and dinners on the beach.
Do you have any advice for couples that are planning their wedding? If you are a type “A” teacher type like me, please please please, let your family and friends help with they offer. This is just as an important day to them as it is to you, so let your inner control freak go with the flow. Your day will be perfect because it is your day-all the planning can’t stand in the way of pure bliss!
What are you currently enjoying or looking forward to as a couple? We are enjoying our conversations, laughter, and “alone time”. We look forward to traveling and starting a family very soon.

Jillian & Mark
November 9, 2012
The Mill at Spring Lake Heights • Spring Lake Heights, NJ

Ceremony Location: The Church of the Sacred Heart / Celebrant: Father Dennis Appoldite / Reception Location: The Mill at Spring Lake Heights / Photographer: Danielle Hopkins Photography / Videographer: Creative Video Editing Films / Entertainment: DJ Your Way / Florist: Petal Pushers / Limousine Service: Cescaphé Trolley / Cake Designer: Chocolate Carousel / Bridal Salon: The Bridal Suite of Hamilton / Shoes: Badgley Mischka / Formal Attire: Schaffer’s Tuxedos / Invitations: Magnet Street / Favors: Donation to Wounded Warrior Project / Hair Salon: Robert James Salon and Spa of Hamilton / Makeup Artist: Silvana Longo / Jeweler: The Original Pratico Jewelers / Honeymoon Location: Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Two weeks ago we relived Jamie and Eric’s seaside soiree through gorgeous wedding photographs that had us reminiscing of sweet memories shared at the Jersey Shore. Today we’re taking another look at Jamie and Eric’s wedding film brought to us by Majestic Entertainment that is one to put in the books and to serve as a reminder that there is  hope for the future of New Jersey’s coastline. Added Bonus: We love how Majestic Entertainment incorporated Eric’s proposal to Jamie!

Jamie + Eric NJ Wedding Highlights The Waters Edge Seabright from Majestic Entertainment on Vimeo.

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

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

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

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

After this bride shared her knowledge of the many positive qualities this bird bestows upon many cultures, we now have a new love for peacock-themed weddings. Mari and Nick’s wedding day is a breath of fresh air, as their special day truly inspires through a personalized ceremony focused solely on the love this couple shares. After all, there’s nothing more special than sharing personalized vows surrounded by those you love most, family and friends. “The overall theme of our wedding was peacocks. We choose this because of the positive symbolic attributes bestowed on peacocks around the world. Peacocks are widely regarded as a symbol of openness and acceptance. Christians adopted the symbol of the peacock to represent immortality. This came from the ancient legend, supported by St. Augustine, that the flesh of the peacock did not decay. Peacocks are also associated with the Resurrection of Christ because they shed old feathers and grow newer, brighter ones each year. In Buddhist iconography, peacocks are symbols of wisdom. They are compared to the great bodhisattvas for their ability to consume poisonous plants without being affected, just as a bodhisattva is capable of taking in the toxins of human emotion while still attaining Enlightenment. A symbolic representation of a tree flanked by two peacocks represented absolute unity in Mesopotamia. Native American cultures view the peacock as a symbol of dignity, wholeness, and beauty. The peacock symbolizes the Hindu deity that represents benevolence, patience, kindness, compassion, and luck. In Japan, the peacock is associated with an emblem of love, compassionate watchfulness, good will, nurturing, and kind-heartedness.”

Mari’s wedding day jewelry were heirloom pieces of jewelry that she received from her grandmother who passed away. She wore diamond earrings with a single pearl at the end and a diamond tennis bracelet.

The wedding day began early for the bride who was up bright and early ready to begin getting ready. “I didn’t sleep much the night before. My sister stayed in my room with me, and Nick stayed with his uncle, so she and I talked a lot about how I was feeling and the excitement.” Styled by DeVenir Beauty, Mari’s hair was styled half up with long cascading curls for a soft and romantic look, while her makeup was applied to highlight Mari’s natural beauty. Nicole applied purple and plum eye shadows, which brought out the green in  Mari’s eyes, while the rest of the makeup was applied in neutral tones, including a nude lipstick and liner from MAC cosmetics.

While the ladies continued with hair and makeup, the groom and his groomsmen were also prepping. “The morning of the wedding was spent relaxing with family and friends. I got up and had some breakfast with some out town guests. After breakfast, the best man and groomsmen came by my room where they helped me get ready and shared a toast before heading to Laurita Winery for pre-wedding photos.”

When the bride began searching for bridesmaid dress styles, Mari knew she wanted floor-length dresses in royal blue. “Three of my local bridesmaids were able to come with my to Cinderella Bridals in Matawan to help make the decision.  the women were real champs each trying on so many dresses. They would find one that someone liked and pass it to the next dressing room over. When someone didn’t like one, we would take it out of the pile.” After narrowing down the dresses to their top three, the ladies decided on Bill Levkoff dresses with a sweetheart neckline that complemented Mari’s La Sposa wedding gown perfectly.

Describe your bridal bouquet: “I wanted to have a cascade style with just white and greens to offset the peacock feathers that were in it. I asked the florist to pick mostly white seasonal flowers, with my only request being that I have white snapdragons for my nanny, who was an adoptive grandmother to us since she was with my family from before I was born until she died about a year and a half before the wedding.” When the couple began planning their wedding, they knew they wanted to host their special day at a location that would be convenient for guests, most of whom live in New York City, New Jersey, and Philadelphia. After visiting Laurita Winery, Mari and Nick were impressed by the pristine grounds and outdoor ceremony location. They also loved that this is a facility they can continue to go back to for years to come. “We went there this year around our anniversary and bought a case of wine from 2011 so we can enjoy it on our milestone anniversaries.” The ceremony was held overlooking the vineyard during sunset, which provided natural light and a beautiful golden haze. During the ceremony, the couple incorporated a reading from the Song of Songs of Soloman, a reading of Pablo Neruda poem, and lit four small candles for those who couldn’t be there. A single white rose in a blue vase was displayed to represent Nick’s mother who passed away in 2004, and Mari and Nick also presented roses to their parents to acknowledge the nurturing and growth they gave to the couple’s relationship.

They ended the ceremony with a Native American wedding prayer, shared their first kiss as newlyweds, and the recessed down the aisle to a string version of September by Earth, Wind, and Fire, one of the couple’s favorite songs.

Mari embellished her 3-inch wedge shoes from My Glass Slipper with DIY shoe clips featuring assorted blue feathers. The groom also embraced the color scheme by wearing blue socks.

From the wedding day preparations to the ceremony and reception, Michelle King Photography captured the wedding in a photojournalistic approach. “Michelle was an absolute pleasure to work with. We choose her after looking at a lot of photographers online. We were drawn to her because of her photojournalist style, but she also seemed to have a special way of capturing the day that made the couple’s personalities shine through. She had described herself as a ninja when working weddings, and she was just that. She always seemed to be there to capture every shot, yet she was never invasive or in our faces.”

Mari and Nick were equally impressed working with Videoccasions who caught the special moments on video. “They were able to deliver the video really quickly after the wedding, and we got to keep not only the raw footage of the entire event, but also the cut videos. We also got a 3-minute music video, which we watch all the time. It gets better every time for us!”

Mari and Nick’s theme was tied together with their wedding day stationery. Their escort cards featured the ”two love birds” motif that were used on their invitations, which were displayed on hand cut wine corks.

Rather than traditional table numbers, the couple opted to name their tables after locations that were special to them. They used royal blue wine bottles and even added a photo of the two at the location in which the table was named. Centerpieces consisted of white large pillar candles set inside white birdcages with a floral wreath at its base.

Through his high energy, seamless transitions, and attention to detail, Jason Jani of SCE Event Group got the party started and had guests on the dance floor the entire night. “Jason was really good at reading the crowd and really gave us a full service experience.” In addition to providing music, SCE Event Group also transformed the ballroom with blue uplighting, a custom gobo light on the dance floor, and entertained guests with a photo booth. “One special thing that SCE Event Group did was at the end of the night when everyone went outside for our send off, they let us relive our first dance with only us on the dance floor. It was such a great moment for us to reconnect and absorb everything that we just experienced.”

Prior to the wedding, Mari and Nick took dance lessons at Stepping Out Studio and learned a choreographed rumba for their first dance to “You and Me” by Dave Matthews Band. “It was so much fun to do something special and for everyone to see our lessons paying off.”

“We wanted our cake to be a nod to NYC, which is where we have lived throughout our whole relationship and started dating.” In addition to the wedding cake, guests were treated to a miniature dessert display featuring cannolis, seasonal tarts, chocolate mouse in praline phyllo cups, chocolate brownie diamonds, assorted miniature cheesecakes, cookies, and fruit with chocolate sauce.

Tell us about your wedding proposal: Nick proposed on May 28, 2010. It was a Friday night, and since his birthday was only three days before, I thought we were going out to dinner for that. I headed downtown to meet him and his uncle and his uncle’s partner for dinner, but I was surprised when Nick met me at the subway. We got in a cab instead of going to his uncle’s apartment for drinks and ended up at the restaurant where we had our first date, Sushi Samba 7. Nick was acting a little giddy, but it wasn’t too abnormal. There were a few things off, like when we went up to the hostess stand, she had the reservation for only two, and I still thought his uncle and partner were joining us. We went to have a drink in the lounge to wait for them, and Nick had preordered the drinks we had on our first date. I thought something was fishy because his uncle is never late, but I glanced at his jeans pocket and didn’t see a ring box, so I assumed I was wrong. After a phone call to his uncle, which I later found out was staged, Nick decided we should go to the table to wait for them. The hostess took us up to the roof deck, and it was completely empty except for us, which is unusual for a summer Friday evening. There was a table set up just for us and none of the other tables were set, so it was clear at that point that he was going to propose. He sat across from me and told me how much he’s enjoyed out time together and cherishes our relationship, then got down on his knee and asked me to marry him. I said yes, and cried for about 20 minutes and then called all of my family and friends. There were people on the street below clapping and cheering for us. We had a great dinner at the restaurant after the proposal.
Bride’s favorite memory of the day:  My favorite memory was walking down the aisle. It was such a surreal moment because Nick and I locked eyes and I really didn’t notice that anyone else was there. It was like we were the only people in the world. I had a huge smile plastered on my face to keep me from crying and because I was just so thrilled to finally be getting married to him.
Groom’s favorite memory of the day:  My favorite part of the day was when I finally saw my wife. We had our pictures done before our ceremony and we had a big reveal.   When I saw how beautiful she looked, it made me realize that all the planning was worth it for this very moment. I wouldn’t have changed a thing!
Where did you go on your honeymoon?  We were looking for a tropical destination and somewhere off the beaten path. We visited Tahiti, Fiji and Syndey, Australia. Nick’s uncle was nice enough to give us miles for our flights as part of our wedding present. To use them, we had to fly in and out of a single place, so we choose Sydney, Australia. It was a place that I had never been before and I always wanted to do the Sydney Harbor Bridge climb, so we made that part of the trip. We also realized how easy it would be to get to Tahiti, so we added it on as well. When were in Tahiti, we stayed in an overwater bungalow, which was so beautiful. You could see thousands of fish right off of our deck. We didn’t even need to get in the water. In Fiji, we stayed in a private beach room that had it’s own pool. It was so secluded and romantic. The wildlife there was unbelievable; we’ve never seen so many different species just wandering around. We also had a short stop off in New Zealand as a layover for a flight and were able to visit a winery and enjoy the local wine.
Do you have any advice for couples that are planning their wedding? Your wedding day goes by pretty quickly. Every so often, look around the room and just absorb. Take a mental snapshot of your friends laughing together, your parents happily crying and the look on your new husband’s face when you do your first look. It’s worth it to take a step back and remember those moments.

Mari & Nick
September 4, 2011
Laurita Winery • New Egypt, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony & Reception Location: Laurita Winery
Catering: Conroy Catering
Officiant: Dr. Joseph Indano
Photographer: Michelle King Photography
Videographer: Videoccaions
Ceremony Music: Elegant Ensembles
Entertainment: SCE Event Group
Florist: Flowerful Events
Limousine Service: Arrive In Style & A-1 Limo
Cake Designer: Conroy Catering
Bridal Salon: Pronovias • Veil: Bride’s Mother’s
Headpiece: Etsy.com • Shoes: MyGlassSlipper.com
Formal Attire: Joseph A. Bank
Invitations: KO Designs
Favors: Pondrelli’s Italian Pastry Shop
Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist: DeVenir Beauty
Jeweler: Kwiat
Honeymoon Locations: Fiji, Tahiti, Sydney, & New Zealand

Happy Wedding Wednesday! Today we have spring on our minds and we can’t help but to think of warm weather after browsing through these photographs from Kelly and Ben’s vibrant summer wedding submitted to us by RSVP to Me. We just love how Kelly and Ben chose to tie the knot close to July 4th, which gave their families the opportunity to have an extended vacation/reunion following their nuptials. Since their family was traveling from all over the U.S. and even outside the country, the couple was able to enjoy time with their loved ones once the reception ended. After all, weddings are about love and the uniting of two families joining together.

Kelly’s Pour La Victoire wedding shoes were not only a comfortable choice for the ceremony, but the blue soles represented her “something blue”!

For a nontraditional engagement ring, Ben worked with the jeweler to design a ring that married Kelly’s favorite color of green and her fiance’s birthstone of amethyst. A custom made wedding band with five gemstones coordinates perfectly with her engagement ring.

Kelly from RSVP is friendly, professional and very easy to work with. Ben and I knew we wanted custom invitations that reflected us and the experience with Kelly is just that!  There are no books to choose from- you literally pick out every details from paper samples, to fonts and graphics. We were even able to word our invitations exactly the way we wanted. We had Kelly design our invitations, programs, favor cards and escort cards.  They were beautiful!

With the help of Jenn and Laura of Pretty Little Details, the couple was able to enjoy their wedding day from beginning to end. “I can’t say enough wonderful things about Pretty Little Details! They anticipated every need Ben, myself, our wedding party and my mom had on the day of our wedding. They were organized, made sure we ate lunch, set everything up and took the time to really understand our vision and make suggestions. I never felt any stress on our wedding day because I trusted Jenn and Laura. I even had an issue where a pleat of my dress had been steamed incorrectly. Laura discreetly sewed the seam while I was wearing my dress so everything would be perfect.”

The bride and groom wore custom Converse sneakers for their reception. Kelly’s were turquoise with orange accents, while Ben opted for grey, white and black plaid.

Kelly’s maid of honor wore a turquoise, floor-length gown in her style choice.

“Our ceremony was held at the Olde Mill Inn. It was over 100 degrees that day and very humid! Ben and I both love The Beatles and Rev. Phil incorporated their music into our ceremony with Here Come the Sun, Blackbird and I Wanna Hold Your Hand. We also had a sand ceremony.”

Simple bunches of hydrangea tied with orange ribbon lined the ceremony aisle, while large floral arrangements were displayed at the altar.

Designed by Jardiniere Fine Flowers, the bride’s bouquet was made up of mango roses, hot pink peonies, and lime green hydrangea.

David and Amy Lau caught the special moments in a photojournalistic style. “I absolutely hate getting my picture taken, but David and Amy made me feel relaxed and comfortable. They really captured natural moments throughout the ceremony and reception.”

Guests found their seats with custom escort cards designed by Kelly of RSVP to me. Rather than traditional table numbers, Kelly and Benjamin opted to name each table after their favorite songs by The Beatles.

After spending Valentine’s Day at the Olde Mill Inn several years prior, Kelly and Ben were impressed by the facility. They liked the warm and welcoming feel of the Olde Mill Inn, as well as the maintained courtyard, and large ballroom. Additionally, the couple liked how the facility hosts only one wedding at a time and offers Eco-friendly over-night accommodations. Set on sage green linens were alternating pillar candles along with three brightly colored floral arrangements at the base.

Guests had a variety of options to choose from during cocktail hour, including assorted cheeses, crudités, chaffing dishes of calamari, and twelve passed hors d’oeuvres. Rather than a traditional sit down dinner, the couple opted for a buffet-style dinner, which allowed guests to eat in a more casual setting. “We were able to customize our menu with the Olde Mill Inn to pick and choose what we wanted from several different menus. We had everything from pastas to carving stations to hibachi to All-American.” Throughout the evening, the couple’s signature drink of white sangria was also available.

A venetian table and chocolate fountain with fruits and mashmallows were served for dessert, in addition to the wedding cake designed by Palermo’s Bakery.

Tell us about your wedding proposal: Ben proposed on Christmas morning before my family came over. In typical Kelly fashion, I said, “Is this really happening?”  Ben just started to laugh. We had talked about marriage in the past, but I never felt liked we had to be married to have a life-long committed relationship. I would say my views on marriage changed after my mom had surgery and Ben and I moved in with her for a short period to help until she was well enough to be on her own. Ben was so patient, took her to doctor appointments and made sure she took her medication.  I felt that was the turning point that took our relationship from high school/college love to adult love.
Bride’s favorite memory of the day: There is no specific memory that stands out greater then the next. Marrying my best friend made the day perfect.
Groom’s favorite memory of the day: Walking into the reception room with Kelly was my favorite memory of the night.
Where did you go on your honeymoon? Ben and I chose to spend time with our families that had traveled from all over. We plan to go to London this year.
What are you currently looking forward to as a couple? Even more laughter and fun! Ben and I love to attend concerts, go on impromptu adventures, travel to breweries/wineries and go to Yankee games. I just want to make more great memories.
Do you have any advice for couples that are planning their wedding? Make decisions that make you and your partner happy and not everyone else. Also remember that it is about your love for each other and sharing that with you family and friends. Pick vendors that understand your vision and meet your standards. I expected my vendors to respond quickly to questions, address concerns, listen to us and give us their expert advice. I received this and much more from each of them.

Kelly & Benjamin
June 30, 2012
Olde Mill Inn • Basking Ridge, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony & Reception Location: Olde Mill Inn
officiant: Reverend Phil Passantino
Wedding Coordinator: Pretty Little Details
Photographer: David and Amy Lau Photography
Entertainment: Paul Anthony Entertainment
Florist: Jardiniere Fine Flowers
Cake Designer: Palermo’s Bakery
Bridal Salon: Bella Sposa Bridal Boutique
Headpiece: Etsy.com • Shoes: Pour La Victoire
Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Invitations: RSVP to Me
Favors: Donation to The Valerie Fund
Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist: Pin It Up Bridal
Jeweler: Henry’s Fine Jewelry & Dicken’s Lane
Candy Buffet: Lisa Blackler

When Heather met Rick on her first day of work in 2009, she was impressed by his welcoming personality as well as his crystal blue eyes. “Rick greeted me at the door since I didn’t have a security badge to let myself into the building. During my first few days of employment, he went out of his way to befriend me,” Heather shared.

The two began dating and about a year later, Heather was given the surprise of her life. Following a trip to visit relatives in Pennsylvania, Rick suggested they stop at Watchung Reservation (one of their favorite parks). After reaching Lake Surprise on May 29, Rick got down on one knee and proposed with a classic princess-cut engagement ring.

Guests were given a preview of Heather and Rick’s October 1, 2011 celebration with gold-edged ivory invitations. “I wanted guests to feel the elegance of the event they were going to be attending,” noted Heather. After months of planning, the wedding day finally arrived. Heather walked down the aisle at Saint Teresa of Avila wearing a mermaid-style Casablanca gown embellished in intricate detailing of embroidery, lace, and beading. A hair comb along with a cathedral-length blusher veil and peep-toe Benjamin Adams shoes completed her look. Rick sported a classic black tuxedo with an off-white shirt, black vest, and bow tie.

Dan and Ellie of Bird & Branch Photography captured the day’s events in a photojournalistic approach. Rick noted, “Our photographers managed to get pictures of even the most trivial moments that we now look back on and are thrilled that we have them.” Heather and Rick are not only very pleased with their photographs, but enjoyed working with Bird & Branch Photography, claiming Dan and Ellie were two of the most amazing people they worked with.

Chosen for its timeless décor and large ballroom with dance floor, the reception was held at The Berkeley Plaza. Heather and Rick were also impressed with the accommodating staff. “The team at The Berkeley Plaza was fabulous. They came up with solutions that incorporated everything we wanted and tailored their services to fit our needs,” noted Rick. Guests enjoyed a variety of selections during cocktail hour, including specialty stations serving pierogis, fajitas, and stir fry, as well as passed hors d’oeuvres. For dinner guests had a choice of chicken francaise, Chateaubriand, or sole oreganata served with duchess potatoes and fresh vegetables. Italian cookies and pastries were served for dessert, in addition to their red velvet wedding cake.

Guests danced the night away from the moment they entered the reception with the help of Fantasy Productions DJ Entertainment. Jim Bello, their emcee for the evening, not only listened to Heather and Rick’s requests, but used his knowledge and played the best mix of songs by reading the crowd. Heather and Rick held the spotlight to “Never Let Go” by Hansen and also participated in the traditional parent dances. “When our guests chanted they wanted to hear one more song at the end of the night, we knew our wedding was a success,” shared the bride.

Heather secretly wished for a light dusting of snow as guests left The Berkeley Plaza. Although snowflakes didn’t fall from the sky, Heather’s maid of honor surprised the newlyweds by sprinkling glittering faux snowflakes over their hotel bed. “I’ll never forget that small gesture that truly touched my heart. It was one of my favorite memories from our wedding day,” commented Heather. Following their special day, the newlyweds escaped to Excellence Playa Mujeres for their honeymoon.

Heather & Rick
October 1, 2011
The Berkeley Plaza • Berkeley Heights, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony Location: Saint Teresa of Avila Parish
Celebrant: Father Peter Koziolkiewicz
Reception Location: The Berkeley Plaza
Photographer: Bird & Branch Photography
Entertainment: Fantasy Productions DJ Entertainment
Florist: Botanical Blooms LLC
Limousine Service: D&G Limousine
Cake Designer: Bovella’s Pastry Shoppe
Bridal Salon & Veil: I Do, I Do
Headpiece: Model Bride • Shoes: Benjamin Adams
Formal Attire: Sarno & Son Tuxedos
Invitations: The Papery • Favors: Howe House
Hair Stylist: Tami Bischoff • Makeup Artist: Model Bride
Jewelers: Zales and Helzberg Diamonds
Honeymoon Location: Excellence Playa Mujeres― Cancun, Mexico

Jamie and Melvin met in August of 2005 through a mutual friend. After enjoying a night out in Atlantic City, New Jersey, the two became friends and began dating six months later. “I believe our strong bond that began as friendship is what really made me fall for Melvin. We always have the greatest time together, and his sense of humor totally got me,” Jamie reminisced. Five years later Jamie and Melvin decided to spend the day together on May 7, 2010. After walking the Point Pleasant boardwalk, they stopped at Fletcher Lake in Bradley Beach. As the two were enjoying their picnic dinner, Melvin got down on one knee and proposed. “I was shocked and had no idea he had a ring,” Jamie shared. The wedding date was set for August 26, 2011.

The wedding day began early for the bride and her bridesmaids when they woke up to a delicious breakfast put together by Jamie’s parents. The girls were pampered to perfection with the help of Annamarie Martone and MAC makeup artist Evelyn Morales. Jamie’s hair was styled half up with beautiful curls, while her makeup was applied in a smoky-eye technique and neutral lip color. The groom enjoyed his morning with a run followed by a relaxing afternoon before getting ready.

Choosing the ceremony location was an easy decision for Jamie and Melvin, as they wanted to have a traditional church wedding service. The bride walked down the aisle at Saint Dominic’s Catholic Church donning an ivory Casablanca gown with dropped waist and A-line skirt with slight pickups. It was beautifully embellished with embroidery and beadwork, as well as an accented belt. Melvin waited for his bride at the altar sporting a black, two-button tuxedo with ivory shirt and vest.

While the newlyweds and bridal party took their formal photographs with the help of Jason of Jason Rhee Photography, guests headed to the Sterling Ballroom at the Doubletree Hotel of Tinton Falls for the reception. Upon visiting the facility for the first time, Jamie and Melvin were greeted by a warm and welcoming staff. They were immediately impressed with the setup of the ballroom, including a large dance floor and crystal chandeliers. Having accommodations available at the same location also factored into Jamie and Melvin’s decision.

Cocktail hour began with 15 passed hors d’oeuvres, six chafing dishes, a sushi display, raw bar, and various attended stations. Guests had a choice of chicken, filet mignon, or fish accompanied with steamed broccoli and garlic mashed potatoes for their main entrée. “The food was absolutely incredible. There was so much of it, and our guests were definitely shocked at the amount and quality of the food,” Jamie raved. In addition to a three-tiered wedding cake, guests indulged in a Viennese display featuring assorted pastries, cakes, and chocolate fountain.

Jamie surprised Melvin with a custom groom’s cake showcasing his favorite basketball team, last name and the number 26 for their wedding day.

Dave Nase from NJ’s Best DJ’s had guests dancing to a variety of music from current dance hits to old classics. “Our DJ listened to what we wanted and added suggestions of his own that really worked well,” noted Jamie. Walking into their reception for the first time as husband and wife was Melvin’s favorite memory of the day. “Along with our bridal party, we were introduced with a basketball lineup theme that really surprised our guests,” noted the groom.

From the preparations throughout the ceremony and reception, Jason Rhee Photography captured the special moments in a photojournalistic approach. The couple agreed that Jason not only offered a variety of packages, but worked well with taking photographs of their guests in a nonintrusive way. Jamie and Melvin were equally pleased working with Jack Hensley Productions, who captured their wedding day on film. Rather than traditional favors, Jamie and Melvin opted for a candy buffet. Guests were able to choose various sweet treats to enjoy for their ride home. Following their big day, the newlyweds traveled to California for ten days.

Jamie & Melvin
August 26, 2011
DoubleTree by Hilton • Tinton Falls, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony Location: Saint Dominic’s Catholic Church
Celebrant: Deacon Ed Buecker
Reception Location: DoubleTree by Hilton
Photographer: Jason Rhee Photography
Videographer: Jack Hensley Productions
Entertainment: NJ’s Best DJ’s
Florist: Betty Smith
Limousine Service: First Class Limousine
Cake Designer: Chocolate Carousel
Bridal Salon: True Love Bridal
Veil: David’s Bridal • Shoes: Enzo Angiolini
Formal Attire: ChazMaTazz Formalwear
Invitations: MagnetStreet • Favors: Candy Bar
Hair Stylist: Annamarie Martone • Makeup Artist: Evelyn Morales
Jewelers:
Earth Treasures Fine Jewelers, Blaine’s Jewelry Box, & Kohl’s Wedding Collection
Honeymoon Location: California Coastal Trip