After John moved to Long Island, New York to start a new job at an automobile dealership, it didn’t take long for him to meet Erin. “John’s smile caught my attention immediately and I started asking my coworkers about him,” Erin shared. She introduced herself to him a few weeks later and even offered to show John around town. Following their initial meeting, the two began to spend time together and soon their relationship grew into love. On October 28, 2010, which marked their two year anniversary, Erin and John were walking on the Long Beach boardwalk with their dog, Casey. John got down on one knee and proposed at the location where their love began. With a little less than a year until their wedding day, Erin and John immediately began planning.

The ceremony was held outside at dusk in the lush gardens of the Fox Hollow. Seeing Erin for the first time was the groom’s favorite memory of the day. Erin walked down the aisle in a trumpet-style Priscilla of Boston gown with a double layer of cascading fabric along the side of her dress. A vintage inspired brooch accented its natural waistband while a simple elbow length veil and a gardenia flower hair clip completed her look. John sported a black tuxedo with silver vest and black tie.

The couple was also pleased with their photographer, Tina from Bella Pictures. “She understood that we wanted a modern twist on classic pictures,” commented Erin. “Tina was able to adapt to our large wedding party and capture the best moments,” added John. Exhale Productions captured the wedding day from beginning to end on video. The bride and groom agreed they were treated with professionalism and patience and are happy with the finished product.

From the moment they stepped onto the grounds of Fox Hollow they knew it was the perfect place to host their wedding. They loved the Winter Garden Pavilion room which features a cascading waterfall, fireplace, and atrium ceilings with skylight windows. Additionally, they were pleased with the professionalism of the staff. “They understood the importance of being involved in every aspect of the celebration,” noted the groom. Cocktail hour immediately followed where guests enjoyed a variety of food from seafood fra diavolo and crab quesadillas to spanakopita and honey smoked Virginia ham. As they ate and mingled, music from contemporary to jazz played in the background. Dinner began with baked shrimp stuffed with Fontana cheese wrapped in bacon followed by lemon intermezzo. Guests had a choice of seven entrées including duck l ‘orange, land and sea duet, shrimp scampi, Chateaubriand, grilled salmon, or North Fork vegetables.

The ballroom was decorated flawlessly with the help of Pedestals Floral Decorators who designed centerpieces in silver bowls with deep purple hydrangea, purple lisianthus, blue bird roses, navy delphiniums, and green berries. Votive candles, flower petals, and handmade table numbers made by Erin and her mother topped each table perfectly for a romantic ambiance. Steve from LIDJ knew exactly what music to play throughout the course of the night. Guests danced the night away from classic Italian to Kanye West and with Steve’s energy the dance floor was never empty. For their first dance as newlyweds, Erin and John held the spotlight to “Sideways” by Citizen Cope.

Following their wedding day, Erin and John escaped to Maui, Hawaii for their honeymoon. When asked if they had any advice for any future couples planning their wedding, Erin mentioned, “Don’t get wrapped up in the wedding; it’s about the marriage.” John added, “It’s important for couples to plan their marriage and expectations while planning their wedding so you’re not in for a rude awakening when the honeymoon is over.”

Erin and John
September 9, 2011
Fox Hollow • Woodbury, NY

Vendors:
Ceremony & Reception Location: Fox Hollow
Officiant: Pastor Steven Milazzo
Photographer: Bella Pictures • Videography: Exhale Productions
Entertainment: LIDJ • Florist: Pedestals Floral Decorators
Cake Designer: Francesco’s Bakery
Bridal Salon & Veil: Priscilla of Boston
Headpiece: Etsy.com • Shoes: Touch Ups
Formal Attire: Joseph A Bank
Invitations: wedding paper divas • Favors: Kate Aspen
Hair Salon & Makeup Studio: Essa Salon & Spa
Jeweler: Anna Bellagio and Etsy.com
Honeymoon Location: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa― Maui, Hawaii

Megan and Jose’s wedding day began with a light snowfall on January 7, 2011, which was the perfect addition to their winter wonderland themed wedding. From the flawless white centerpieces set on crystal stands and ambient uplighting to the suspended snowflakes on the ceiling and snowflake patterns projected around the room, Megan and Jose’s wedding encompassed romance from the day they fell in love while on the ski slopes. When the couple began planning their wedding, they knew they wanted to host their celebration at the Fox Hollow- the location where they met and had worked together years before. Megan and Jose especially liked the warm fireplaces, holiday lights and decorations that provided a welcoming feel. Jose added, “The hotel next door made it convenient for all of our guests.” After the wedding ended, Megan shared advice for couples planning their wedding. “Enjoy every part of the planning process and make decisions together. It will make your day that much more special knowing that not only you both put your heart into planning this special day, but it’s everything you both wanted.”

Megan and Jose
January 7, 2011
Fox Hollow • Woodbury, NY

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: St. Frances de Chantal Church
Officiant: Father Lito • Reception Location: Fox Hollow
Photographer & Videographer: Sherwood-Triart Photography
Entertainment: Elegancia Entertainment • Florist: Perfect Wedding Planner Florals
Limousine Service: Royalty Limousines
Cake Designer: Francesco’s Italian-American Bakery
Bridal Salon: Helen’s Private Collection • Headpiece & Veil: Barron’s
Formal Attire: Helen’s Private Collection & Tuxedo Park
Hair Salon: Debbie’s • Makeup Studio: Lola Loves Makeup
Invitations: Zazzle.com • Favors: Gold Mark Promotions
Jeweler: Else Wedding Jewelry • Lighting: Studio 4
Live Entertainment: Long Beach Irish Step Dancers
Honeymoon Location: Sandals, St. Lucia

Michelle and John’s love story began in 2007 when court reporter Michelle set her eyes on attorney John. He asked her out to dinner and the rest was history. One of our favorite details from today’s “throwback” real wedding was Michelle’s taffeta wedding gown designed by Atelier Aimee. It was beautifully embellished with ruffles, which the design of the wedding cake was inspired by. “My favorite memory of the wedding was when I saw my wife-to-be first entering the aisle of the church in her gown and veil,” stated John. From the lavish cocktail hour and variety of dinner entrees to the dancing and socializing throughout the evening, Michelle and John’s wedding day was hit among guests!

Michelle and John
October10, 2009
Giorgio’s at Fox Hill • Baiting Hollow, NY

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: Greek Orthodox Church of Port Jefferson
Reception Location: Giorgio’s at Fox Hill
Photographer & Videographer: InVision Photography & Video
Entertainment: Long Island Sound DJ • Florist: James Cress Florist
Limousine Service: M&V Limousines • Cake Designer: La Bonne Boulangerie
Bridal Salon: Atelier Aimee • Headpiece & Veil: Solotu Custom Bridal
Formal Attire: Gino’s Fashion Tuxedos • Hair Salon: Rapunzel’s Hair Salon
Wedding Coordination, Invitations & Favors: Classic Event Designs
Honeymoon Location: Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort

“Exquisite Ambiance, Superb Service and Gourmet Cuisine.” The wedding every bride dreams of and no one ever forgets. As one of Staten Island’s Premier Wedding Venues, Grand Plaza invites you to experience the uncompromised beauty and elegance of the Grand Plaza.

The Grand Plaza offers everything you could dream of to create your perfect wedding day. From the moment you arrive, you will receive the personal service you deserve, as we only cater one wedding at a time. While you are waited on hand and foot in your private bridal suite, your guests will be welcomed by our courteous staff and enjoy cocktails in our new separate Crystal Club Room named after the decor accents of its beautiful crystal chandelier and private bar trimmed in dark wood and brass sconces. Your first dance will take place under the twenty foot vaulted ceilings which boasts our signature Grand Chandelier in our Plaza Ballroom where the tone will be set for great wedding memories that will last a lifetime.

The Grand Plaza’s culinary trained chefs will create a world class dining experience for you and your guests to savor. The Grand Plaza is proud to prepare and serve a unique blend of continental cuisine with a strong foundation in classical Italian recipes and techniques. Food is always prepared to your exact specifications and will consistently exceed your expectations both in quality and flavor.

Click HERE for more information on Grand Plaza

Grand Plaza

23A Nelson Avenue, Staten Island, NY
718-967-4034

Laura and James
February 19, 2011
Colony Hall • Staten Island, NY

Laura and James were seniors in college when had their first date on December 31, 2005. They met as students at Fordham University and shortly after their New Year’s Eve date they officially became a couple. About four years later, Laura and James were spending the day together, and after a romantic dinner they found themselves under the Brooklyn Bridge. James then asked Laura to marry him and she couldn’t have been more thrilled. “I thought it would be an unforgettable moment and perfect complement to starting our life together in Brooklyn,” James reminisced.

The couple set the date for February 19, 2011 and immediately began planning their classic-modern celebration. “We wanted timeless with a twist of today,” said Laura, who chose dark grays, black, deep purples, and magenta as the color scheme for their winter wedding. When it came time to choose a reception location, family members recommended Colony Hall. According to the bride, she and James wanted somewhere truly unique that was fit for a big party; Colony Hall was just what they were looking for. “It was the perfect space to accommodate our tastes and vision,” she commented.

The morning of the wedding began early for Laura and her bridesmaids, who had a lot of prepping to do before the 3:00 PM ceremony. Matt from Cozmo’s Hair Salon and Design Studio and Jeanine from Jeanine Mangan Makeup Designs arrived at Laura’s parents’ house at 6:30 AM to get the girls ready for the big day. “Jeanine is truly an artist. I have never felt more beautiful, thanks to her. The makeup lasted the whole wedding without a worry,” noted the bride. Once everyone was ready, First Class Limousine Service took Laura, her parents, and the bridal party to The Shrine Church of St. Bernadette, James’ family’s parish. Laura wore an off-white strapless trumpet-fit LaSposa gown with ruching and an A-line train with a hair comb from her mother-in-law and a plain floor-length veil. James waited at the altar in a wool tuxedo with a classic black bow tie.

Following the ceremony, the newlyweds and their wedding party braved the cold February winds for photos taken by John Arcara Photography, who also filmed the wedding. “John and his team are pros. Their ability to be everywhere and capture everything in the most beautiful way will never cease to amaze me. These are photos we will cherish forever,” Laura commented. After pictures everyone gathered at Colony Hall for an extravagant cocktail hour, which featured some of the couple’s favorite foods. In addition to numerous passed hors d’oeuvres, guests also enjoyed a baja taco bar, a raw bar, and snacks like truffle oil popcorn and pretzel bites at the bar and cocktail tables. The entree was a modern take on traditional surf and turf: a beef tenderloin and crab cake combination served with cheddar potato gratin and corn pudding. “We got rave reviews on the food for months after the wedding! It was truly gourmet,” said the bride. Mother Mousse designed the couple’s wedding cake, which was white with cascading black, gray and purple dots. The white chocolate raspberry-filled vanilla and chocolate cake was served for dessert with espresso drinks, cordials, and trays of cookies.

Michael and Anthony from Eclipse Entertainment worked with the groom to create a playlist that kept guests up and on the dance floor. The couple agreed that they were incredibly impressed by the team from Eclipse, who was flexible and accommodating. Laura and James’ first dance, “When I Saw You” by The Ronettes, was followed by traditional parent dances, with Laura and her father’s dance ending in their favorite dancing pastime, “The Twist.” After their big day, the newlyweds escaped to Antigua for their honeymoon. Laura and James felt their wedding was exactly how they envisioned it and wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. They are looking forward to starting their life together as a married couple.

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: The Shrine of St. Bernadette • Officiant: Monsignor Casserta
Reception Location: Colony Hall
Photographer and Videographer: John Arcara Photography
Entertainment: Eclipse Entertainment LLC • Wedding Coordinator: Guide the Bride
Limousine Service: First Class Limousine Service • Florist: Flowers by Bernard
Cake Designer and Favors: Mother Mousse
Bridal Salon, Veil and Headpiece: Wedding Atelier • Formal Attire: Jack Silver Formal Wear
Invitations: Holland Designs
Hair Salon: Cozmo’s Hair Salon and Design Studio
Makeup Artist: Jeanine Mangan Makeup Designs
Jeweler: Gerald Peter’s Goldmine and Sassy Chic Boutique
Honeymoon Location: Antigua

To read more about Laura and James’ big day, pick up the latest New York edition of Contemporary Bride Magazine!

Vanessa and Kris
August 14, 2011
Vineyard Caterers • Aquebogue, NY

Although their families had been good friends for over two decades, it wasn’t until August of 2007 that Vanessa and Kris met while at a family dinner. They defied the odds of a long distance relationship and three years from their initial meeting, Kris proposed. “I knew Kris was planning something special when he surprised me with a trip to Disney World,” mentioned Vanessa. They immediately began planning their August 14, 2011 wedding. Guests were invited to Vanessa and Kris’ celebration with ivory invitations embellished with a translucent overlay and ivory bow. Fat Cat Paperie designed the additional stationary including ceremony programs, menu cards, signature drink cards, and table name cards, all of which were written in an elegant script font to coordinate with the invitations.

Located in the couple’s hometown, the ceremony was held at their families’ parish, Most Holy Trinity Church. Vanessa walked down the aisle wearing a lace Maggie Sottero gown with intricate detailing and chapel-length train. She held ivory roses, stephanotis, and touches of greenery with pearls strung throughout the bouquet. Kris sported a beige tuxedo with an ivory vest and tie, while his groomsmen wore beige tuxedos with cream vests and ties to coordinate with the bridesmaids’ turquoise chiffon dresses.

When Vanessa and Kris visited Vineyard Caterers, they were immediately impressed with their incredible outdoor views and landscaping, along with the professionalism from the staff. Bill, the manager of Vineyard Caterers and John, their maitre d’ invited them into the facility like family and the couple agreed the staff was professional and courteous. “They went above and beyond our expectations,” commented the bride. For dinner, guests had a choice of Chateaubriand, panko crusted stuffed breast of chicken, Shrimp Wellington, or Farfalle. Vanessa added, “The food and wine selections at the reception were from local farms and wineries.” Their three-tiered wedding cake from Create-a-Cake included a white intricate design with fresh flowers and three butterflies, symbolizing the couple and good fortune.

Tony and Thomas from ADA Studios captured each sentimental moment perfectly which helped to make Vanessa and Kris’ wedding truly unforgettable. They liked ADA’s quality of work, efficiency, and their photography styles combining both photojournalism and traditional portraits. “ADA captured stunning photos of us together at the beach, vineyards, gazebo, and pond,” said Kris. Following Vanessa and Kris’ first dance to “Mille Lune Mille Onde” by Andrea Bocelli, guests danced the night away to a wide range of music from classic rock to current dance hits. Absolute Entertainment, along with Charles Notturno Band, was upbeat and played genres that appealed to all of their guests. While the emcee, Kevin did a great job with mash-ups and smooth transitions, Charles, George, and Robert entertained with live music. At the end of the reception, Vanessa and Kris escaped to Disney World, Florida for their honeymoon where they stayed at the Beach Club Resort for ten days.

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: Most Holy Trinity Church • Officiant: Father Donald Hanson
Reception Location: Vineyard Caterers • Photographer: ADA Studios
Entertainment: Absolute Entertainment and Charles Notturno Band
Limousine Service: Serenity Limousine • Florist: With All My Heart Florist
Cake Designer: Create-a-Cake • Bridal Salon: Something Blue Bridal
Veil and Headpiece: Handmade by Bride’s Grandmother • Shoes: Diane Lynn by Saugus
Formal Attire: Rico’s Clothing • Invitations: Laural Party Shop and Fat Cat Paperie
Hair Stylist: Melissa Ford • Makeup Artist: Kristen McDonnell
Candelabras and Linens: Party Rental Limited
Honeymoon Location: Disney’s Beach Club Resort- Walt Disney World, Florida

To read more about Vanessa and Kris’ big day, pick up the latest New York edition of Contemporary Bride Magazine!

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“A Royal Estate of Affairs.” A Castle to call your own…with just one wedding a day, OHEKA CASTLE is the perfect setting to host your wedding. Exclusive and unforgettable, from the historic estate and formal gardens to the elegant rooms, meticulous intuitive service, and award winning cuisine, OHEKA is one of the finest wedding venues in the world, just an hour from Manhattan.

Upon entering the gates of OHEKA CASTLE you and your guests will feel as though you have been transported back in time to an era well known in American history as the Golden Age. Inspired by the Chateau’s in France, the estate offers European ambiance, service and sophistication.

With just one wedding a day, OHEKA CASTLE is the perfect setting to host your wedding. Exclusive and unforgettable, from the historic estate and formal gardens, to the elegant rooms, white-glove service, and award winning cuisine, OHEKA is one of the finest wedding venues in the world. Inspired by the Chateaux in France, this historic Gold Coast mansion, situated between New York City and The Hamptons, offers European ambiance, golf and tennis, and 32 guest rooms and suites where guests can sleep like royalty.

Click HERE for more information on Oheka Castle Hotel and Estate.

OHEKA Castle Hotel and Estate

135 West Gate Drive, Huntington, NY
631-659-1400

“Celebrating One Fairy-Tale at a Time.” Long Island’s premiere wedding and catering-event facility, The Inn at New Hyde Park celebrates one fairy-tale at a time. Turn of the century elegance, entire bridal floor, lush gardens, extraordinary cuisine, unmatched splendor, and uncompromising service. The Inn at New Hyde Park has just completed a grand transformation turning the old inn to an elegant, turn-of-the century, catering-event center and gourmet restaurant. No expense has been spared and no detail overlooked to create this new showcase for the finest dining and upscale receptions on all of Long Island. From magnificent interiors to lush gardens and walkways for outdoor cocktails, a perfect environment has been created to ensure the most memorable experience.

Imagine a place where dreams come true. A place of elegance, romance, and unmatched splendor. Built for the most discriminating brides. A place to experience the finest weddings and highest level of service on all of Long Island. At The Inn at New Hyde Park, the staff caters to one wedding at a time. From the moment you arrive and throughout your entire day our professionally trained staff will attend to your every need. From your own spacious bridal floor and personal bridal attendant to a lush garden chapel and grand ballrooms with a server at every table, The Inn at New Hyde Park is sure to provide you with an extraordinary wedding experience to remember.

The Inn at New Hyde Park offers you wedding ceremony location choices. Choose between the enchanting indoor wedding chapel, or, weather permitting, enjoy the lush garden gazebo. Both will uniquely set the tone for your special day. Enter the grounds of The Inn at New Hyde Park and you are transported to a world of “Civilized Grace” and “European Charm”. The stress of modern life melts away as you survey the idyllic surroundings of our gracious courtyards with stately stone walls, brick walkways and meticulously landscaped gardens. In the spring and summer, picturesque flowers and formal gardens add a rainbow of colors while deep crimsons and ambers of the autumn leaves provides a natural backdrop to surely warm the heart.

Click HERE for more information on The Inn at New Hyde Park.

The Inn at New Hyde Park
214 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park, NY
516-354-7797

“A Tradition of Grandeur and Luxury That’s Over a Century Old.” If you’re looking for the sophistication and elegance of Manhattan combined with classic charm and hospitality, The Garden City Hotel is perfect for you. This enchanting Garden City, Long Island hotel boasts cozy, luxurious accommodations and world-class amenities including flexible meeting space, tantalizing onsite dining, or easy access to local attractions. Since 1874, our inviting Long Island, New York hotel has served as one of the area’s finest luxury destinations. Experience classic elegance and stylish guest accommodations at The Garden City Hotel, where luxury comes standard.

When it comes to creating memories that last a lifetime, The Garden City Hotel is truly extraordinary. From start to finish, The Garden City Hotel can accommodate and enhance every aspect of your wedding experience. Our accomplished wedding professionals work with you to ensure that your grand event reflects your hopes and dreams. As one of the premier Long Island wedding reception sites, their luxury hotel can meet even the loftiest expectations from hosting parties from 30 to 650 guests with unrivaled style and sophistication. Delight in their exquisite selection of venues for the ultimate Long Island wedding, including 25,000 square feet of wedding and reception space, perfect for all types of ceremonies. The Grand Ballroom is the region’s most sought-after location for distinctive wedding receptions with dinner capacity up to 500.

Blending exquisite service and elegant facilities, The Garden City Hotel guarantees a picture-perfect Long Island wedding reception. Allow their wedding professionals to handle every detail from floral arrangements and menu planning to decorations and entertainment.

Click HERE for more information on The Garden City Hotel.

The Garden City Hotel
45 Seventh Street, Garden City, NY
516-747-3000

Danielle and Robert

July 31, 2010
The Garden City Hotel • Garden City, NY

When Danielle and Robert began planning their July 31, 2010 wedding, they knew it would be a grand celebration with a classic and elegant theme. The couple’s 200-person guest list was informed of the event with ivory pocket fold invitations. They had an ivory gloss border around the edging and black lettering giving the invitation a regal feel.

This legendary hotel and fantastic banquet facility with a well-known reputation in Long Island was chosen for its great service, high ceilings, gold chandeliers, luxurious design, and, of course, Danielle’s expertise of being the Assistant Catering Office Manager. “The Garden City Hotel is an extraordinary place that not only accommodates each customer but will enhance every aspect and personalize your event to make it unique,” noted the bride.

Upon arrival, guests enjoyed champagne and the couple’s signature drink of apple martinis before entering the Grand Salon Combo room, where the cocktail hour was held where a variety of food was served. “The staff at The Garden City Hotel was willing to go out of their way for us. They were organized, knowledgeable, and every one of our guests was pleased,” noted the bride.

JoVon Photography captured the special moments as they happened on film and video through a photojournalistic approach. Danielle commented, “JoVon Photography was creative, open to our ideas, and very easy to work with.”

Following their celebration of a lifetime, the couple honeymooned in Europe for two fabulous weeks, where they visited the romantic locations of Italy, Switzerland, Paris, and London. Danielle and Robert are currently excited for the next chapter in their lives.

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: St. Brigid Catholic Church • Officiants: Father Augustine and Deacon Frank • Reception Location: The Garden City Hotel • Photographer: JoVon Photography • Videographer: JoVon Photography • Entertainment: Faze 4 Orchestras and Entertainment • Limousine Service: Camelot Specialty Limos • Florist: Flowers by Burton • Cake Designer: The Garden City Hotel • Bridal Salon: Bridal Reflections • Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse • Invitations: Direct Buy • Favors: The Gift Basket Boutique • Hair Salon: Salon Danina

To read more about Danielle and Robert’s big day, pick up your copy of Contemporary Bride Magazine today featuring these Newlyweds on the Cover!!