Although it took Dimitri a month to call Lauren after their initial meeting at a friend’s party, the two went on their first date to a restaurant in Brooklyn, New York. “We were both nervous, yet excited,” reminisced Lauren. After spending hours getting to know each other, the two hit it off and dated for a little over three years before taking their relationship to the next level. “I wanted the proposal to be unique and a surprise,” shared Dimitri. The two traveled to Florida for what Lauren thought was to celebrate Dimitri’s 30th birthday. After spending the day in Disney, Dimitri surprised Lauren with a magical evening on a private yacht. As the fireworks lit the sky behind Cinderella’s castle, Dimitri proposed. When Lauren and Dimitri began planning their wedding, they knew they wanted to give their out-of-town guests time to spend a few days in the area. Choosing December 30, 2011 gave them the opportunity to enjoy time with family during the holidays. Guests were invited to the marriage celebration with custom invitations designed by Kelly of RSVP to Me. With a beautiful iridescent design, the invitations set the tone for Lauren and Dimitri’s winter wonderland wedding.

Image Above by Anna Hurt Photography for RSVP to Me

Lauren walked down the aisle at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church wearing a sweetheart strapless, dropped-waist gown adorned with intricate beading. A Reem Acra cathedral-length veil and silver Manolo Blahnik shoes completed her look flawlessly. Dimitri sported a Calvin Klein pinstriped tuxedo with a Gucci tie.

Following a beautiful ceremony officiated by Father James Moulketis and Father Damaskinos Ganas, the newlyweds and their guests headed to The Grove for an extravagant reception. Upon visiting The Grove for the first time, Lauren and Dimitri were warmly welcomed into the facility and were taken care of by a professional staff. “When we chose The Grove it was just being built. The staff walked us through the entire project and helped us understand what the facility would be like. We were confident that The Grove would be first class and stellar,” mentioned Lauren.

From passed hors d’oeuvres to carving stations and a fresh seafood bar, guests were served a variety of selections to satisfy everyone’s palate. Dinner began with a cold salad with crab meat, followed by a main entrée choice of sea bass or filet mignon accompanied with fresh vegetables. In addition to the vanilla wedding cake designed by Palermo’s Bakery, individual plates of crème bûlée, raspberry chocolate, ice cream, and baklava were served for dessert.

Joy Glenn Photography captured the day’s events in a photojournalistic style. Lauren and Dimitri were impressed by Joy’s previous work, their engagement session, and wedding day execution. The couple also enjoyed working with Peter Ziffer Studios, who caught the special moments on film.

High centerpieces in one of two designs featuring various white blooms of hydrangeas and calla lilies were set on white table linens, along with candles for a romantic glow.

Guests danced the night away with the help of Bounce Music and Entertainment featuring East Side Mix. The group played a variety of songs from ‘50s to today’s top hits, and Greek music to accommodate the couple’s heritage. For their first dance as husband and wife, Lauren and Dimitri held the spotlight to “Original of the Species” by U2. Lauren’s sister also arranged to have the bride’s childhood friend sing “Marry Me” while her sister-in-law played the piano, making this one of Lauren’s favorite memories of the wedding day.

Lauren and Dimitri thanked their guests for being a part of their special day with Verdi champagne. Tied to each bottle was a small bag containing five almonds and a tag stating a donation had been made to the American Cancer Society. Following the reception, the newlyweds escaped to the Viceroy Hotels and Resorts in Anguilla for the honeymoon.

Lauren & Dimitri
December 30, 2011
The Grove • Cedar Grove, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony Location: Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church
Celebrants: Father James Moulketis and Father Damaskinos Ganas
Reception Location: The Grove
Photographer: Joy Glenn Photography
Videographer: Peter Ziffer Studios
Entertainment:
Bounce Music and Entertainment featuring East Side Mix
Florist: Crest Florist
Limousine Service: Danaro Limousines
Cake Designer: Palermo’s Custom Cakes & Bakery
Bridal Salon: Priscilla of Boston
Veil: Reem Acra • Shoes: Manolo Blahnik
Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Invitations: RSVP to Me
Favors: Donations to The American Cancer Society
Hair Salon: A Cut Above
Makeup Artist: Jillian Emma
Honeymoon Location: Viceroy Hotels and Resorts― Anguilla

It was through the help of Match.com and a simple “wink” that brought Jenna and Tom together. After their first date on December 10, 2009 at Ruby Tuesday’s, Jenna and Tom hit it off and had a second date planned before leaving the restaurant. “I knew Jenna was the one two weeks into meeting her when she stepped through the door at Hemingway’s Café,” Tom shared. For a surprise proposal about two years later, the two ventured into New York City for dinner and to see Broadway’s American Idiot. Upon arriving home, Jenna was surprised to see “Will You Marry Me?” displayed across the garage door of their home as they drove up into their driveway. The date was set for March 31, 2012.

Jenna walked down the aisle of Church of the Visitation, wearing a diamond white A-line gown with strapless bodice, full skirt, and crystal embellishment. A two-tiered elbow-length veil and ivory satin Ivanka Trump peep-toe shoes completed her look. During the mass, the bride and groom included Tom’s heritage by having Father Leszek recite part of the ceremony in Polish, which allowed Tom’s family to feel welcome.

Ivanka Trump peep-toe shoes embellished with rhinestone detailing and a bouquet consisting of Picasso calla lilies adorned with crystals and two jeweled cuffs attached to the stems completed Jenna’s style perfectly.

Following the ceremony, the newlyweds, along with their guests, headed to Crystal Point Yacht Club for their reception. When the couple visited the facility, Jenna and Tom were warmly welcomed by Denise and impressed by the reputation for outstanding service and Atlantic ballroom overlooking the Manasquan River. A variety of food was served during cocktail hour, including an Italian display, pasta station, mashed potato bar, and passed hors d’oeuvres. For dinner, guests had an entrée choice of chicken Crystal, Chateaubriand, or Chilean sea bass.

“The staff at Crystal Point were incredibly accommodating to anything requested,” Jenna commented. For dessert, every guest was given a slice of vanilla wedding cake with raspberry mousse filling, along with a chocolate-covered strawberry and a shot of a chocolate milk shake, in addition to a plate of pastries set on each table.

Following Jenna and Tom’s choreographed first dance to “Everything” by Michael Bublé, which was the couple’s favorite memory of the day, guests danced the night away to a variety of songs. Jay Tompson of Elite Entertainment went above and beyond for the couple and even sang a few songs during dinner for a live entertainment feel. Rather than the customary bouquet and garter toss, Jenna and Tom presented the couple married the longest with these items and asked them to share in a special anniversary dance to “Only You” by The Platters.

From the wedding preparations, ceremony, and throughout the reception, Contemporary Image captured the special events in photography. “I loved the creative thinking Emil and Michelle put behind each shot, as well as taking the traditional family pictures,” noted Jenna. The couple was equally pleased working with Videos by Trish, who caught their wedding on film.

In lieu of traditional wedding favors, guests were sent home with chocolate cake pops from Cappy’s Custom Cakes. They were decorated in the couple’s color scheme of purple and gray, and included labels letting each guest know that a donation had been made to the Great Strides Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Following the reception, Jenna and Tom escaped to Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort for their honeymoon.

Jenna & Tom
March 31, 2012
Crystal Point Yacht Club • Point Pleasant, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony Location: Church of the Visitation
Officiants: Reverend Leszek Tymoszuk and Deacon David Kohut
Reception Location: Crystal Point Yacht Club
Photographer: Contemporary Image Photography
Videographer: Videos by Trish
Entertainment: Elite Entertainment
Florist: Purple Iris Flower & Gift Shop
Limousine Service: Santos VIP Limousine
Cake Designer: The Tinton Falls Pastry Chef
Bridal Salon & Veil: Sales Unlimited
Headpiece: Sunshine Daydream • Shoes: Ivanka Trump
Formal Attire: ChazMaTazz Formalwear
Invitation Designer: Jessica Bell
Favors:
Donations to Great Strides Cystic Fibrosis Foundation & Cappy’s Custom Cakes
Hair Stylist: Lauren Johnson • Makeup Studio: MAC Cosmetics
Jeweler: Good as Gold Jewelers
Photo Booth: Boardwalk Photo Booths
Dance Lessons: Shall We Dance Studio
Honeymoon Location:
Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort- St. Lucia

Deanna and Craig met as freshmen while attending Rutgers University. Although they lived on the same floor in their dormitory, it took a few weeks for the two to get to know each other, and a couple of months later they started dating. “Craig’s sense of humor was what first attracted me to him,” Deanna shared. Following graduation, Deanna moved to Rhode Island to continue with her ambitions of attending law school, and it didn’t take long for both to realize how much they missed each other. Craig began planning the proposal about four months prior to popping the question. During the week of teacher’s convention, Craig surprised Deanna in the library with numerous signs for her to read. As she read, “So I came here to ask you,” Craig got down on one knee and asked Deanna to be his wife.

Guest’s were requested to attend Deanna and Craig’s wedding with red and purple invitations featuring a flourish design.

When the newly engaged couple began planning their wedding, they knew they wanted a Sunday night celebration, so choosing Labor Day weekend gave the couple more time to spend with their out-of-town guests. After visiting The Newark Club, they were impressed by the views of the New York City skyline and Jersey City view from the 22nd floor ballroom. Additionally, the facility was large enough to accommodate their large guest list comfortably. “From day one, Artie Wassif was helpful, honest, and friendly. Throughout the planning process, Artie gave us great advice and always provided us with recommendations,” noted the bride.

Deanna walked down the aisle in The Newark Club’s lobby wearing an A-line Sottero and Midgley gown with sweetheart neckline, ruched bodice, corset-style back, and beaded embellishment. Purple peep-toe shoes with a silver adornment completed the bride’s look. Craig and his groomsmen wore three-button tuxedos with silver vests and ties that coordinated with the bridesmaids’ floor-length purple chiffon dresses.

From the wedding day preparations throughout the ceremony and reception, Heyn Photography captured the day’s events flawlessly in a photojournalistic style. The bride had always admired Heyn Photography’s previous work, so when it came time to hire a photographer, it was a no-brainer. John, Marissa, and Cara made the couple feel comfortable in front of the camera and took pictures at Stephen R. Gregg Park in Bayonne and throughout The Newark Club. Deanna and Craig were equally pleased working with Daniel Lee Videography, who blended in with their guests and caught the special moments on film.

Low glass vases filled with red gerbera daises, roses, purple lisianthus, and calla lilies, along with candles and one single red rose (placed on each side of the centerpiece), completed the tablescape designs..

Cocktail hour served a variety of selections, including hors d’oeuvres, cold displays, and hot chafing dishes of eggplant rollatini, Spanish seafood paella, and Asian-style braised short ribs. For dinner, guests had a choice of Black Angus shell steak, potato-crusted tilapia, or French-cut breast of chicken. “There was such a large variety of menu options, and each item was better than the previous,” the groom raved. In between dancing and socializing, guests indulged in sweet treats of chocolate-covered strawberries, an ice-cream sundae bar, crème brûlée, and berry crepes, in addition to the wedding cake. Designed by Palermo’s Custom Cakes & Bakery, the four-tiered design featured purple pipe work, swirl patterns, and white Swiss dots. Its flavor consisted of chocolate with hazelnut filling and yellow cake with dulce de leche filling.

Following the celebration the newlyweds escaped on a ten-day Mediterranean cruise for their honeymoon aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line.

Deanna & Craig
September 4, 2011
The Newark Club • Newark, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony & Reception Location: The Newark Club
Officiant: Father Richard Berbary
Photographer: Heyn Photography
Videographer: Daniel Lee Videography
Entertainment: The Ultimate Entertainment
Florist: Anything Florist
Cake Designer: Palermo’s Custom Cakes & Bakery
Bridal Salon & Veil: Nicole’s Boutique Shoes: Wild Diva
Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhous
Invitations: Invitation Consultants
Favors: Donations made in honor of Family Member
Hair Stylist: Jenna Coddington
Makeup Artist: Makeup by Agnes Barnet
Jeweler: Jewelry by Peter
Honeymoon Location: Norwegian Cruise Line

“A dream wedding location, hosting one wedding at a time.” Conveniently located in central New Jersey’s historic Millstone Township, Monmouth County, Windows on the Water at Frogbridge is a romantic wedding location offering a unique setting for an unforgettable day. The 86-acre private resort wedding location offers an impressive array of cuisine selections, polished service staff and lively entertainment options― all carefully managed by our senior event planners.

Recently renovated, Windows on the Water at Frogbridge now features an elegant new entrance with signage, lighting, iron entrance gate, and 31 feet of custom brickwork set off by two cascading waterfalls. Enjoy impressive flexibility and create the reception of your dreams, whether you opt for the large banquet hall, attached tent, or extensive patio overlooking the lake and fountain.

Windows on the Water at Frogbridge specialized in exquisite meal presentations prepared from the freshest ingredients. With a diverse selection of menu options from traditional American fare to a formal seven-course European feast, the cuisine is sure to impress.

Tented celebrations are also available with seating over 300 guests and a large dance floor. Enhance your event with additional wedding options including a fabric liner, up lighting, monograms displayed on the dance floor, and even lighted lounge furniture for a “club-like” atmosphere.

Click HERE for more information on Windows on the Water at Frogbridge.

Windows on the Water at Frogbridge
7 Yellow Meeting House Road, Millstone Township, NJ
609-208-9475

“Your Once in a Lifetime Party deserves an individual magic touch.” Let Season’s experienced and caring staff custom design your special event. Their talented team of award-winning chefs, sushi chefs, professional ice carvers and outstanding pastry chefs will combine their culinary expertise to provide a wedding worthy of “Lifestyle of the Rich and Famous” at a reasonable price.

Every detail of your reception is uniquely you. With a reputation for excellence, Season’s trained staff of banquet coordinators will assist you with creative suggestions to make your reception a success. With a beautiful grand ballroom and exquisite landscaping throughout, there are many picturesque areas throughout the grounds to capture special moments in photography. Seasons is also equipped to meet all of your off premises catering needs including fine cuisine, ice carvings, china, flatware, glassware, and more.

Click HERE for more information on Seasons

Seasons
644 Pascack Road, Washington Township, NJ
201-664-6141

“The Grove Experience…Beyond Extraordinary. A commitment to the Highest Level of Service and Culinary Excellence.” The Grove is a newly constructed event venue located in the heart of Cedar Grove, which opened its doors in March 2011. Built by a family with over 45 years in the food service industry, their aim was to create a space and an experience that would not simply meet, but exceed the most discerning expectations of the social and corporate public. The decor of this upscale venue may best be described as “contemporary transitional.” The Grove experience is characterized by a meticulous attention to detail. The color-lit fountain at the entrance, magnificent Italian light fixtures, decorative marble lobby flooring, luxurious bathrooms and dressing suites, and impeccably designed ballrooms are just a few of the functional and visual amenities that set The Grove apart. See for yourself what The Grove Experience truly is…starting with the very first phone call.

Every bride dreams of a storybook wedding envisioning romance, elegance, beauty and charm. The Grove experience is all of that and more. This luxurious venue features high ceilings, crystal chandeliers, palladium windows, a descending staircase, and impeccable architecture that will provide the backdrop for this once in a lifetime occasion. Your special day will be transformed into a unique wedding celebration that is both modern and timeless.

The Grove’s highly acclaimed chefs have created an eclectic menu of flavorful dishes and will happily customize your event’s culinary experience. Additionally, the professional party planners will work intimately with you each step of the way to ensure an unforgettable experience. The entire staff at The Grove is committed to making your special day everything you dreamed it would be.

The Grove produces a world class culinary experience that is beyond extraordinary. Their highly acclaimed Executive Chef, Anthony Garruto has created an eclectic menu of creative, flavorful dishes and will happily customize your event’s culinary experience. In addition, menus are seasonally adjusted and feature a large variety of ethnic dishes, including the finest kosher cuisine. Cuisine is an integral part of The Grove Experience, and represents our ongoing commitment to the original aim of The Grove’s creators…to create an experience that not simply meets, but surpasses the most discerning expectations of the social and corporate public.

Click HERE for more information on The Grove

The Grove
691 Pompton Avenue, Cedar Grove, NJ
973-239-0270

“I was lucky enough to retake chemistry in the summer of 1999. If I hadn’t, I never would have met Rachel’s brother, and never would have met, Rachel, the love of my life,” Daniel reminisced. Throughout the years, Rachel continued to have a crush on Daniel, but it wasn’t until 2004 the two officially became a couple and dated for four years. Daniel planned on proposing for a couple of months before popping the question on a romantic getaway in Cape May, New Jersey on June 26, 2009. After climbing the stairs to the top of the Cape May Lighthouse, Daniel got down on one knee and asked Rachel to be his wife. Without hesitation, Rachel said “Yes!” and the two began planning their big day.

Located on 40-acres of woodlands, meadows, gardens, and ponds; combined with its old world charm and its professional staff, the Pleasantdale Chateau was the perfect locale to host the couple’s wedding. ”The Pleasantdale Chateau is a magical facility and takes your breath away upon arriving,” noted the bride. Rachel walked down the aisle in front of the serene lake during sunset, wearing a white silk organza mermaid-style Rivini gown accented in lace and crystal detailing. Her cathedral length veil scattered with crystals completed her look along with diamond earrings and necklace given to Rachel from her grandmother. During the ceremony the couple exchanged heartfelt vows and ended the service with the breaking of the glass for good luck.

Following the ceremony, the newlyweds had a private cocktail hour in the library, while guests enjoyed a variety of food from a carving station, sushi and seafood bar to a Mediterranean display, and an array of passed hors d’oeuvres. Dinner began with a citrus salad and a blood orange and ginger sorbet intermezzo, followed by entrée choices of halibut meuniere or molasses and sherry marinated filet of beef. “The food was outstanding and something you would expect to get from a five-star restaurant,” noted the groom. Rachel and Daniel were pleased with not only the presentation, variety, and taste of the food, but the staff as well. “The staff was by our side the whole day and went out of their way to make sure everything went smoothly,” commented the bride.

Guests were entertained by Soul Solutions- an eleven-piece band who played a variety of music including 80s, 90s, and current hits. For their first dance as husband and wife, Rachel and Daniel surprised their guests as they performed a choreographed number to “You and Me” by Dave Matthews. The couple also participated in the traditional parent dances to “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion and “I Turn to You” by Christina Aguilera.

Laura Bruen Photography captured the day’s events flawlessly in a photojournalist approach. Rachel and Daniel loved Laura’s creative eye, artistic techniques, and extensive background in photography. They were equally pleased working with Bitcon Productions, who filmed their wedding video. Dan was easy going, fun to work with, and was as unobtrusive as possible. When asked what their favorite memory is from the wedding, Rachel said, “When Daniel and I were standing side by side during the ceremony. This was what we were waiting for, for so long.” Daniel added, “Being able to enjoy our own private cocktail hour. This gave Rachel and me a chance to absorb everything.” Following a magical evening, the newlyweds escaped on their honeymoon to Riviera Maya, Mexico where they stayed at an intimate boutique hotel.

Rachel and Daniel
April 30, 2011
Pleasantdale Chateau • West Orange, NJ

Vendors:
Ceremony & Reception Location: Pleasantdale Chateau
Officiant: Cantor Bill Walton
Photographer: Laura Bruen Photography • Videography: Bitcon Productions
Entertainment: Soul Solution of Total Entertainment
Florist: Crest Florist • Cake Designer: Pleasantdale Chateau
Bridal Salon & Veil: Exquisite Bride • Shoes: Jimmy Choo
Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Invitations & Favors: Lori Mausner Designs
Hair Salon: Phyllis Borum NJoy Hair
Makeup Artist: Jeanine Mangan Makeup Designs
Honeymoon Location: Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita― Riviera Maya, Mexico

It was truly a chance encounter when Alexis and Michael met in March of 2007 at Dickerman’s Ale House, a favorite spot for Quinnipiac University students. Michael came in with his hockey teammates to celebrate winning their game, while Alexis was at the bar with her girlfriends. Although he teased her for her order—a “girly” Oatmeal Cookie shot—when he first walked over to talk to her, Michael and Alexis hit it off immediately and became inseparable after that night. “I would have never met her if we didn’t win that game,” recalled Michael. In August of 2010, the two were on vacation in the Dominican Republic with Alexis’ family. It was their first night there and Alexis was looking for shoes to wear to dinner. Michael walked up to her with a Christian Louboutin shoe box and when he opened it for Alexis she found a beautiful cushion-cut diamond engagement ring inside. Michael placed the ring on her finger, and even surprised Alexis with the shoes that came in the box. The couple set the date for July 2, 2011 and began planning their romantic wedding.

After two hours of pictures, everyone headed to St. George Greek Orthodox Church, to which Alexis’ family has belonged for two generations. Alexis describes seeing her husband for the first time as she walked down the aisle as a “magical, emotional memory” and was her favorite moment of the day. She wore a strapless silk satin ball gown with illusion neckline, full pleated skirt, and corset bodice. The dress was embellished with Swarovski crystals, which perfectly matched the bride’s crystal satin belt and crystal headpiece. A beaded veil adorned with pearls completed Alexis’ wedding day attire. Michael and his groomsmen sported gray tuxedos with monochromatic gray vests and ties.

Alexis and Michael did not have to look far to find the perfect place to host their reception. “Pines Manor is like a second home for my family and me,” said Alexis, whose mother and brother work at the facility. “As soon as I got engaged my first call was to the Pines Manor to put the wedding on the books!” Throughout the years, Alexis’ family has held many important events at the Pines Manor, so choosing this location was perhaps the easiest decision the couple had to make. Not only did they have the advantage of knowing the caliber of service at the Pines Manor, but they also had Alexis’ mother Marisa Dervech, the facility’s catering director, to help coordinate their wedding. “We owe our dream wedding to her. Her patience and attention to detail is why she is so perfect for this job,” the bride commented.

Following the ceremony, the newlyweds’ family and friends gathered at the Pines Manor for cocktail hour, where they enjoyed Greek and Italian stations in honor of the couple’s heritage, a mash-tini station, a raw bar, a seafood bar, and a sushi bar. For dinner guests received a duet plate of Chilean sea bass and filet mignon with lemon risotto and a mixed greens salad. Greek and Italian pastries and artisan chocolates were served for dessert alongside a crystal-decorated five-tier vanilla cake with chocolate mousse filling from Palermo’s Bakery. “They are so creative and have such a passion for what they do,” said the bride of Palermo’s. “They were so helpful and sincere.”

Platinum Entertainment was the couple’s first and only choice when it came time to choose a DJ. “Anthony rocked the dance floor all night,” recalled Alexis. “He played the perfect mix of music for everyone.” The newlyweds shared their first dance to Lionel Richie’s “Penny Lover,” followed by the traditional parent dances. Following their reception, Alexis and Michael went on a two-week honeymoon to Riviera Maya and Cancun. They are currently enjoying living together, spending time as husband and wife and look forward to their future.

Alexis and Michael
July 2, 2011
Pines Manor • Edison, NJ

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: St. George Greek Orthodox Church
Officiant: Father Nicholas Pastrikos • Reception Location: Pines Manor
Photographer & Videographer: Rick Helman Photography
Entertainment: Platinum Entertainment
Limousine Service: D&G Limousines • Florist: Crest Florist
Cake Designer: Palermo’s Custom Cakes & Bakery
Bridal Salon & Veil: Priscilla of Boston • Formal Attire: Zaccarello’s Formal Wear
Hair Salon & Makeup Studio: Cosmo Blu
Jeweler: Hannaugh Jewelers • Invitations & Favors: Favor It Shop
Honeymoon Location: Grand Velas- Riviera Maya & Gran Meliá- Cancun, Mexico

Kelly and Jeffrey recently celebrated their two year wedding anniversary. If you didn’t get to read their wedding story in the Spring/Summer 2011 NY edition of Contemporary Bride, here are some of the highlights from their special day. The May 14, 2010 wedding celebration was filled with love and not to mention bold colors that reflected their personalities. Although the weather called for thunderstorms, Kelly and Jeffrey lucked out with a beautiful and sunny day─perfect for a garden ceremony amid the classical colonnade and blooming flowers at the Shadowbrook. After exchanging vows, Kelly and Jeffrey were pronounced for the first time as “Team Jelly”. The two high-fived and concluded the ceremony with Jeffrey dipping Kelly to share their first kiss as husband and wife, making this their favorite memory of the day. The couple loved how the staff at the Shadowbrook made them feel welcome, catered to their every need and were very flexible.

Kelly and Jeffrey
May 14, 2010
Shadowbrook • Shrewsbury, NJ

Vendors:
Ceremony & Reception Location: Shadowbrook • Officiant: Tony Zecca
Photographer: Steven Tackeff Photography
Entertainment: Up All Night DJs • Florist: Jardiniere Fine Flowers
Cake Designer: Shadowbrook • Bridal Salon: Nicole’s Boutique
Hair Pins: ArtFire.com • Formal Attire: Barry’s Formalwear
Hair Salon: La Sorella • Makeup Artist: Jeanine Mangan Make-up Designs
Jeweler: West Essex Jewelers • Invitations: Karen Kutzman
Calligrapher: Belles Lettres Calligraphy • Favors: Homemade Strawberry Jelly & Measuring Spoons

Meghan and John grew up on the same block, but it wasn’t until June of 2005 that they got to know each other at the Portuguese Festival, and began to officially date two months later. On November 16, 2009, John went to Meghan’s house for a casual date night with a movie and a bag of Cracker Jacks, into which he had slipped a gorgeous white gold princess-cut ring. “When she finally found it I was already on my knee asking her to marry me,” John recalled. Meghan said yes, and the couple began planning their modern couture wedding. On August 13, 2011, Meghan woke up early at her parents’ house and began prepping with her bridesmaids, mother, and flower girls. Melissa and Nicole of Melissa D’Aloia & Co. pampered the girls to perfection with hair and makeup applications. “Melissa was amazing to work with and made us feel glamorous,” said Meghan.

The ceremony took place at the bride’s parish, St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church. Meghan looked stunning in her ivory Kenneth Pool gown made of royal duchess satin with a sweetheart neckline, asymmetrical ruched bodice, and trumpet-style skirt. The rhinestone accents on the dress flawlessly complemented her rhinestone-embellished hair comb and fingertip-length veil with rhinestone and beaded edging. John wore a classic black two-button Calvin Klein tuxedo with an ivory shirt, vest, and tie. During their traditional full mass ceremony, the two exchanged vows and participated in a unity candle service, and as part of a family tradition, a bag piper played as guests entered and exited the church.

The Studio Photographers and Fiore Films documented the day’s special moments. The couple loved both vendors’ work from the start, and knew that they were the right choice for their big day. “The Studio Photographers’ photojournalistic style never ceased to impress me. Frank and PJ were professional, organized, and created a relaxed environment,” said Meghan. They were equally pleased with Fiore Films: “Sharrone and her two assistants did not disappoint. They blended in and most of the time we didn’t even realize they were filming us. They were a pleasure to work with,” the bride commented.

When Meghan and John first visited South Gate Manor, they were immediately impressed by the facility’s overall look, from the marble flooring and grand staircase to the well-maintained grounds and cocktail hour room. “We liked how there was enough seating for every guest, and the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking their garden area with additional lounge furniture, gazebo, and fountain,” noted John. The knowledgeable, accommodating staff at South Gate Manor also factored into the couple’s decision. Bobby, the maitre d’, was especially helpful during their reception. “Bobby was outside waiting for us when the limousine pulled up to South Gate and took care of us throughout the night,” said Meghan. The groom also noted that the staff treated the couple like royalty, and that all of their special requests were fulfilled.

Jeff from SCE Event Group provided the music for the evening, playing everything from Frank Sinatra to current club hits. Meghan and John shared their first dance to Josh Groban’s “When You Say You Love Me,” and participated in the traditional parent dances. Additionally, Sound Connection provided LED uplighting, dancing under the stars, and intelligent lighting, creating a club-like atmosphere. When asked what their favorite memory of the day was, the newlyweds agreed it was seeing each other for the first time. Meghan and John continue to thank their vendors and parents for all their hard work. “Without them we never would have been able to have the wedding we envisioned.”

Meghan and John
August 13, 2011
South Gate Manor • Freehold, NJ

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: Saint Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church
Officiant: Reverend James W. McGuffey • Reception Location: South Gate Manor
Photographer: The Studio Photographers • Cinematographer: Fiore Films
Ceremony Music: Thomas Juno • Entertainment: SCE Event Group
Limousine Service: First Class Limousine Service • Florist: Rosie Posies
Cake Designer: South Gate Manor • Bridal Salon and Veil: Exquisite Bride
Headpiece: Castle Couture • Shoes: Love by Enzoani • Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist: Melissa D’Aloia & Co.
Jeweler: Cantor Jewelry Co., Inc., Swarovski, & Lauren B.
Invitations: Riley Creative
Favors: Donations to Northeastern Boxer Rescue & Susan G. Komen for the Cure
Aisle Runner: The Original Runner Co.
Card Box: Etsy.com/JamieKimDesigns • Cake Stand: Sarah’s Stands

To read more about Meghan and John’s big day, pick up the latest New Jersey edition of Contemporary Bride Magazine!