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

Kelly and Stephen are the epitome of a love-next-door fairy-tale. Growing up, they not only lived down the street from one another during their middle and high school years, but their parents were also great friends. After spending endless summers together (including trips to Yankee Stadium) Kelly and Stephen’s friendship evolved into romance. While the two are enjoying the road to their happily-ever-after, they took a moment to capture their engagement with the help of Jessica Lauren Photography. The chemistry that this couple shares is evident throughout each photograph taken. Kelly and Stephen’s e-session began at the intersection of where their streets meet, continued at the local fire department, and concluded at a quaint field that provided a stunning backdrop for rustic images. Thank you Jessica Urzua of Jessica Lauren Photography for sharing this beautiful engagement shoot with us! Don’t forget to become a fan of Jessica Lauren Photography on Facebook to get your daily dose of stunning wedding and engagement photography!

On April 10, 2009, Monique and Avi were just two strangers playing blackjack in Atlantic City. They began talking and realized they had a lot in common, and even lived in the same town. When Avi left the table, Monique didn’t think she would see him again, but they passed each other later that night and exchanged phone numbers. He contacted her the next day; they immediately began spending time together, and soon became a couple. In February of 2010, Monique and Avi were watching television together when Avi suddenly got up, saying he needed a pair of socks. After pulling something out of the dresser, he walked over to Monique, got down on one knee, and asked her to marry him. “I was going to propose at a restaurant, but then it wouldn’t have been such a personal, private moment,” Avi recalled. Monique was thrilled and couldn’t wait to tell their family and friends about the engagement.

The couple then faced a difficult decision: they wanted to get married as soon as possible, but Monique also wanted time to plan the perfect late-summer wedding she’d always wanted. They finally decided that the only solution was to have two separate weddings. Monique and Avi had a small destination wedding at Sandals Grande Antigua Resort and Spa on September 28, 2010 so they could be legally married, but still take their time planning their dream wedding back home. Nearly one year later on September 4, 2011, the couple was married again and held a beautiful ceremony and reception at Channel Club.

When their wedding day arrived, Monique met her husband at the dock wearing a strapless off-white dress with a ruched top and beading around the trim, train, and corset back. A rhinestone-embellished headband and fingertip-length veil with pearls completed her attire. Avi sported a classic black tuxedo with a silver vest and tie.

Monique and Avi immediately knew Channel Club was the perfect location for their wedding. They both wanted a beachside ceremony, and loved that Channel Club had a dock so they could get married right on the water. The couple was impressed with the breathtaking view of the boats and the sunset from inside the facility, as well as the accommodating staff. “They were attentive and did whatever needed to be done. Everything was perfect; we couldn’t have asked for a better staff,” noted the bride.

Following the ceremony guests went inside for cocktail hour, where they were served a large selection of butler-passed hors d’oeuvres, along with sushi, a mashed potato bar, and a carving station. Chicken Francaise, stuffed sole, and Chateaubriand were offered as entrée choices.

Monique and Avi chose Lamar Wedding Center to take care of the photography and videography for their big day. “They were great! They really did an excellent job,” Monique commented. The couple agreed that the Lamar team went above and beyond their expectations.

Channel Club created a three-tiered vanilla-and-chocolate cake filled with cannoli cream, which featured chocolate seashells and crumbled graham crackers to complement the couple’s beach theme. “I didn’t get to eat much, but everything I had was really good,” said Monique.

In addition to the wedding cake and tartuffo, a custom groom’s cake was also served for dessert.

Jay from Elite Entertainment kept guests on the dance floor with a wide variety of music, from pop and current hits to Motown and Spanish songs. “He was full of life and got the crowd going, which is exactly what we wanted,” noted the bride. The couple held the spotlight to “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis for their first dance, followed by the traditional parent dances.

Monique and Avi were the lucky winners of Contemporary Bride Magazine’s Honeymoon Sweepstakes, and enjoyed an eight-day, seven-night all-inclusive trip to the Riu Vallarta Resort in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico. They are currently looking forward to starting a family.

Monique & Avi
September 4, 2011
Channel Club • Monmouth Beach, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony & Reception Location: Channel Club
Officiant: Rabbi Patz
Photographer & Videographer: Lamar Wedding Center
Entertainment: Elite Entertainment
Florist: Floral Designs by Cindy
Limousine Service: Tru Limousine
Cake Designer: Channel Club
Bridal Salon: Jefre Bridals • Headpiece: Edward Berger
Veil: Wedding Star • Shoes: Nine West
Formal Attire: Tony’s Formal Wear
Jeweler: Tiffany’s and Bailey, Banks & Biddle
Invitations: MagnetStreet.com
Favors: Donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital
Honeymoon Location: Hotel Riu Vallarta- Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Keally and Dan’s  July 31, 2010 wedding boasted a vibrant affair full of DIY details. In honor of their two-year wedding anniversary, we thought we would reminisce of their wedding that was featured in the Spring/Summer 2011 edition of Contemporary Bride. Happy Anniversary Keally and Dan! We wish you many more years of happiness and love!

While life may be short, one thing for certain is that Keally and Dan’s love falls nothing short of sweet and grows stronger every day. The two began dating in high school and were even lucky enough to continue their education together at Rutgers University. A year after graduating in 2008, Dan decided to pop the question early one morning at Avon Beach, New Jersey. When the newly engaged couple began planning their July 31, 2010 wedding, they both knew they wanted it to be a fun, casual, and a personalized affair. Keally was a do-it-yourself bride and along with Dan, they created the table numbers, guest table cards, guest book, and wooden letters that read, “K & D” and “I Do”. They knew exactly what they wanted and the precise attention to detail allowed guests to catch a glimpse of who they are as a couple. “Our do it yourself projects made our wedding bright, lively, and energetic. It took a lot of work to make everything perfect, and although we wouldn’t admit it at the time, it was certainly worth it,” said Dan.

Following a wonderful ceremony, guests made their way to the historic Cranbury Inn for the reception. An intimate colonial estate with natural wood, antique clocks, oil paintings, and a unique cathedral-like addition with many windows allowing for natural light to shine through, this banquet facility was the perfect choice for a night of celebrating Keally and Dan’s rustic wedding. “We were blown away by how beautiful and historic the Cranbury Inn was, especially the newly finished area. The owner, Tom, also sounded like he knew exactly what he was talking about when it came to running a wedding,” noted Dan.

Elegant Ensembles kept the party going all night long after the newlyweds held the spotlight to “What you Love, you Must Love Now” by The Six Parts Seven. They then participated in a combined parent dance to “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. Guests were up out of their seats the rest of the night dancing to a variety of music from the 80s to Contemporary. “We let our DJ have free range and he knew exactly what to play at the appropriate times. He did an awesome job,” remarked Keally.

From the bride and groom preparations to the ceremony and throughout the reception, Amy Diamond from Adia Photography LLC captured the special moments flawlessly in a photojournalistic style. The couple was happy that Amy was open to their ideas and allowed them to use the props from pinwheels, mustaches on sticks, and a banner that spelled out “Love”, all of which Keally made. The couple is very happy with how their pictures came out. The bride also mentioned that her makeup looked beautiful in the pictures thanks to Lauren Iavarone of Expert Makeup Artistry. Following their beautiful summer wedding, the couple escaped to the Bucuti Beach Resort in Aruba for eight days and seven nights. When asked what their most exciting part of planning their wedding was, Keally enjoyed spending time planning the most important day with her husband and watching everyone’s hard work come together in the end.

Keally and Dan
July 31, 2010
The Cranbury Inn • Cranbury, NJ

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: St. Peter’s Catholic Church
Celebrant: Father Kevin Kelly
Reception Location: Cranbury Inn
Photographer: Adia Photography • Videographer: C&G Productions
Entertainment: Elegant Ensembles
Limousine Service: Cranbury Limo
Florist: Monday Morning Flowers
Cake Designer: Mendoker’s Bakery
Bridal Salon: Exquisite Bride • Veil: Exquisite Bride
Headpiece: J. Crew • Shoes: Anne Klein
Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Invitations: Etsy.com • Favors: Candy Buffet
Hair Salon & Makeup Studio: Expert Makeup Artistry
Jeweler: Jigs Designs
Honeymoon Location: Bucuti Beach Resort, Aruba

Carolyn and Scott held their New Years Eve wedding reception at Asbury Park Convention Center. When Contemporary Bride saw this transformation, we had to share with our readers. Inku Photography captured these fabulous pictures from their wedding day planned by Always a Bridesmaid.

Racquel and Joseph
May 7, 2011
Nanina’s in the Park • Belleville, NJ

Racquel’s family was overjoyed when Joseph proposed in front of the family on Christmas Day in 2009. Racquel was taking a cousin’s picture just as they had every year, when Joseph walked up next to her, bent down on one knee and asked Racquel to spend the rest of her life with him. “I knew how close Racquel is with her family and I couldn’t think of a better gift than for everyone to see the surprised look on her face,” recalled Joseph.

Racquel woke up early at her parent’s house and began prepping with her bridal party and immediate family. Once the bride’s hair was styled in an elegant updo accented with a black magic rose, the girls continued to get pampered with airbrush makeup application by Christina Pignataro. Soon after, John Baccolo and Jim from Gabelli Studio arrived and began capturing the day’s events in photography and on video. The couple agreed that Gabelli Studio treated them like family, were respectful, and a pleasure to work with.

The ceremony took place at the bride’s parish, Holy Family Church. Donning a Novia D’ Art designer gown from Barcelona and a Spanish-style mantilla veil, Racquel was escorted down the aisle by her father. “I’ll never forget how beautiful my bride looked,” Joseph commented. The groom sported a classic black tuxedo with black vest and tie. He also wore a family heirloom ring, in honor of his grandfather.

Choosing a reception location was an easy decision for Racquel and Joseph. When they visited Nanina’s In The Park they were impressed with the beautifully maintained grounds, adjacent cherry blossom park, and its reputation for a first class experience. In addition, the staff went above and beyond to answer all of their questions, were courteous and treated Racquel, Joseph and their guests like royalty.

Following a warm ceremony with tears of happiness, the newlyweds and their guests headed to Nanina’s in the Park for a grand reception. Cocktail hour began with a variety of options including a homemade mozzarella station, roasted pig, and pasta, as well as the signature drink of the evening, pomegranate martinis. For dinner guests had a choice of Chateaubriand or shrimp Nanina’s. In addition to their three tiered wedding cake designed by Le Petit Gateau, guests were treated to an extravagant Venetian hour that served homemade zeppoles, chocolate fountain, bananas foster, a gelato bar, coffee bar, and after dinner cordials.

Racquel mentioned, “I was lucky enough to have my mom help me with a lot of little details. She made it a lot easier for me and I’m not really sure what I would have done without her help.” Following their wedding, Racquel and Joseph escaped to the romantic island of Bora Bora in the French Polynesia for their honeymoon.

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: Holy Family Church • Officiant: Father Hernan
Reception Location: Nanina’s in the Park • Photographer and Videographer: Gabelli Studio
Entertainment: The Inferno’s Band • Limousine Service: New Jersey Limo Bus
Florist: Flowers by Connie Riemer • Cake Designer: Le Petit Gateau
Bridal Salon: Exquisite Bride • Veil: Etsy.com • Shoes: Nina Shoes
Formal Attire: Ally’s Bridal and Tuxedo • Invitations: Chandelles • Favors: Nanina’s in the Park •  Hair Stylist: Andrea Rello • Makeup Artist: Christina Pignataro • Jeweler: Bloomingdale’s • Honeymoon Location: Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa

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

Amy and Patrick

October 2, 2010
Lake Valhalla Club • Montville, NJ

Amy and Patrick met through the help of a mutual friend at work in April 2007. The two began dating and Patrick decided to make their love official the night before leaving for their Caribbean cruise vacation. As Amy entered Patrick’s condominium, he handed her a poem, got down on one knee and asked Amy to be his wife. After she happily accepted, the two spent the rest of the evening calling family and friends telling them the good news.

After an elegant ceremony, guests headed to the Lake Valhalla Club to celebrate the couple’s nuptials. From the English Tudor architecture including a large ballroom, vaulted ceiling, and intimate fireplaces to the well maintained landscaping, beautiful lake view, and a personable staff, the couple knew this facility was the perfect location to host their reception. “Our day was amazing and the setting really contributed to the overall atmosphere,” noted Patrick.

For dessert, guests indulged in the three-tiered wedding cake, a Venetian table, and a Mets themed groom’s cake that was a surprise to the groom from his bride. “The staff at Lake Valhalla treated us like family. They were accommodating and everyone from the maitre d’ down to each individual server and bartender was excellent,” the couple agreed.

Dave and Tami of The Studio Photographers captured the wedding with several unique shots. From the pictures taken throughout Lake Valhalla, in the rowboat, on the pier, by the bonfire, and throughout the celebration, Amy and Patrick were not disappointed with their photographs.

When asked what the most exciting part of planning the wedding was, Amy commented, “Choosing and creating the details of our wedding including an escort card tree, menu cards, and decor for the reception.” Patrick said, “The anticipation of seeing our family and friends on our wedding day that live far away that we don’t get to see often.”

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: Our Lady of Magnificat • Officiant: Father Raymond Orama • Reception Location: Lake Valhalla Club • Photographer: The Studio Photographers • Entertainment: Elite Sound Entertainment • Florist: Bloomingdale Florist • Cake Designer: Lake Valhalla Club • Bridal Salon: Designer Loft West • Veil: Etsy.com • Formal Attire: Quails • Invitations: Made by Bride • Favors: Made by Bride • Hair Stylist: Mariella • Jeweler: Elsie Fine Art Jewelers • Cigar Bar: J and R Cigars

To read more about Amy and Patrick’s big day, pick up your copy of Contemporary Bride Magazine today!!

Camille and Dan

October 23, 2010
The Berkeley Plaza • Berkeley Heights, NJ

Camille first met Dan in 2004 while they were both out with friends. Even though Dan was surrounded by his buddies, Camille mustered up the courage to go up and talk to him and although she felt awkward, she asked him if he would like to go to a concert some time. To her surprise she received a phone call from him a few days later. The two made plans to go out and the rest is history.

The bride walked down the aisle at Immaculate Conception Church donning a ball gown style dress that featured a cathedral length train and a beaded bodice. Camille also wore a crystal ribbon headpiece and a cathedral length veil that complemented her gown flawlessly.

The wedding reception was held at The Berkeley Plaza which had a large dance floor, gorgeous chandeliers, and accommodating staff.

Designed by Bovella’s Bakery, their four-tiered wedding cake featured cascading flowers and had alternating flavors of white cake with strawberry filling and chocolate cake with raspberry filling. At the end of the night, guests received a fall-themed, red velvet cupcake as a thank-you for being a part of the couple’s special day.

Chris from Picture Perfect Photography captured the events from beginning to end. The couple was impressed with his backlighting effects and they loved how all the pictures came out. Camille and Dan are planning their honeymoon to a tropical location in the near future. As they begin this new life journey, they also look forward to starting a family.

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: Immaculate Conception Church • Officiant: Reverend Michael J. Gromadzki • Reception Location: The Berkeley Plaza • Photographer: Picture Perfect Photography • Videographer: Krystal Clear Photography and Video • Entertainment: DTM Productions • Florist: Addalia’s Floral Gardens • Limousine Service: Santos VIP Limousine • Cake Designer: Bovella’s Bakery • Bridal Salon: D’Anelli Bridal •
Headpiece: Sassy Chic Boutique • Veil: D’Anelli Bridal • Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse • Invitations: Occasions • Favors: Very Unique Cakes • Hair Salon: La Bella Salon and Spa • Makeup Studio: La Bella Salon and Spa • Jeweler: Jared the Galleria of Jewelry

To read more about Camille and Dan’s big day, pick up your copy of Contemporary Bride Magazine today!!

Kristen and Paul are set to be married on June 24, 2012 at Eagle Ridge Golf Course in Lakewood, New Jersey. Emil of Contemporary Image will be photographing the wedding along with his associate Michelle Kondreck. The couple recently had their esession with Emil, where they went to historic Morristown for their for their photographs. They wanted to capture the vintage, urban look of the town in their photos, as well as hoping to capture the fall colors. “I think the shoot was a huge success. Kristen and Paul are both photogenic and were very easy to work with,” shared Emil. For more information and to see more of Contemporary Image’s work, visit http://www.ContemporaryImage.com.

Photography by Contemporary Image

Gabrielle and Michael

October 23, 2010
South Gate Manor • Freehold, NJ

As the lights dimmed, Gabrielle and Michael held the spotlight as they danced a choreographed Rumba to “When you Say Nothing at all” by Ronan Keating. Their polished first dance as well as their performed Carinosa – a cultural courtship Filipino dance, impressed their guests.

Just a few hours earlier, Gabrielle and Michael tied the knot at Saint Paul’s Roman Catholic Church. Watching his beautiful bride walk down the aisle was Michael’s favorite memory from the wedding day. Gabrielle looked flawless in her Priscilla of Boston ball gown with its sweetheart neckline, crystal beading, and hand draped silk design. The groom sported a handmade custom black tuxedo with textured shirt, ivory suspenders, bow tie, and silver cufflinks. “My husband looked classically stunning,” remarked Gabrielle.

After the ceremony, the newlyweds and their guests headed to South Gate Manor for an exceptional reception. Chosen for its elegance and modern decor, knowledgeable staff, and outstanding food – South Gate Manor exceeded the couple’s expectations.

Throughout the wedding planning process, The Finishing Touch helped Gabrielle and Michael create the wedding they envisioned. Their mind was put at ease and made the wedding planning process and the week of the wedding more manageable for them. “The Finishing Touch was willing to go above and beyond what we asked for,” the bride said. Cliff Mautner Photography caught the special moments perfectly throughout the day’s events. “Cliff was great to work with. Our pictures are without a doubt amazing,” noted Michael.

After the reception, Gabrielle and Michael escaped to St. Bart’s for their honeymoon and recently traveled to Paris where they indulged in the romantic scenes and delicious abundant offerings. Gabrielle and Michael are enjoying their quiet time as a couple and look forward to the birth of their baby in November.

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: St. Paul’s Roman Catholic Church • Officiants: Msgr. Walter Nolan and Deacon Frank Crivello • Reception Location: South Gate Manor • Photographer: Cliff Mautner Photography • Videographer: Fiore Films • Entertainment: Mirage Music • Wedding Coordinator: The Finishing Touch • Florist: Beautiful Blooms • Cake Designer: Abbate Bakery • Bridal Salon: Kleinfeld • Headpiece/Veil: Kleinfeld • Shoes: Manolo Blahnik • Formal Attire: Kleinfeld Men • Invitations: Bella Figura • Favors: Tiffany and Co. • Hair Salon: Tu Bellezza Salon • Makeup Studio: Tu Bellezza Salon • Jeweler: Diamond Castle

To read more about Gabrielle and Michael’s big day, pick up your copy of Contemporary Bride Magazine today!!