Claire and Michael met through mutual friends during their sophomore year of college. “I immediately recognized that Michael had a very friendly and easygoing way about him,” Claire recalled. The two were dating other people at the time and although they lost touch, they were reconnected again the very last week of college in May of 1999. Claire and Michael began dating and a decade later, Michael presented Claire with a solitaire engagement ring from Jay Roberts Jewelers.

Finally August 27,, 2011 arrived and brought with it a big surprise. Although Hurricane Irene was on her way, Claire remained calm and was excited to begin prepping for her wedding. Claire was on the phone with the coordinator at 3 West Club finalizing last minute seating changes as Jeanine of Jeanine Mangan Makeup Designs flawlessly applied her makeup and Handri Gunawan styled her hair into a traditional chignon. Claire and her bridesmaids then met up with Michael and his groomsmen for pre-ceremony photos, shot by Chae Kihn of Harold Hechler Photographers. Kihn shot a mix of classic portraits, candid and posed shots, and black and white photos that the couple absolutely loved.

The ceremony was held at Cathedral of Saint Patrick in New York City where Claire’s parents had been married. Claire walked down the aisle in an off-white Alencon lace gown designed by Tomasina and a cathedral-length veil. Gold peep-toe Jimmy Choo heels and Swarovski crystal drop earrings completed the bride’s look. She carried a bouquet of white and cream roses. Claire’s bridesmaids wore navy blue silk chiffon gowns and carried bouquets of lavender sterling roses. Michael sported a traditional black tuxedo, as did his best man and groomsmen.

The bridesmaids’ carried lavender sterling roses to complement their navy blue chiffon dresses, which coordinated nicely with the groomsmen attire.

The reception was held at 3 West Club, which is a private club built in 1921 on the site of Andrew Carnegie’s former home. Claire and Michael were pleased with the overall service from the staff. The bride commented, “They were so efficient and exacting that I didn’t need to focus on them at all, which is the way it should be!” During cocktail hour, guests enjoyed a variety of hors d’oeuvres in addition to passed champagne in flutes. Dinner began with a sea scallop risotto with porcini mushrooms, followed by salad and a duo intermezzo of lemon and lime sorbets, garnished with fresh fruit and mint. For their main entrées, guests had a choice of filet mignon in perigourdine sauce or sautéed halibut.

The reception décor was traditional, with intricate centerpieces of amnesia roses, pink and green hydrangea, silver brunia, lavender lisianthus, and delicate variegated ivory. The room was tastefully lit by Stortz Lighting. There were pin spots on each table composition, a color wash on the dance floor, some uplighting throughout the ballroom, and a soft spotlight on the band.

Hank Lane Music played a mixture of standards and swing with contemporary pieces mixed in. The band performed “Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen” for Michael and Claire’s first dance as husband and wife. The bride commented, “Hank Lane’s reputation precedes them. They are one of the most highly recognized entertainment companies in Manhattan.”

The wedding cake was a three-tiered masterpiece of alternating layers of chocolate raspberry and vanilla with a raspberry cream designed by Madame Butterfly Cakes.

Claire and Michael thanked their guests for being a part of their special day by sending them home with a personal favorite, blueberry, lemon, vanilla, and chocolate flavored macaroons from Bouchon Bakery. Following their wedding day, the newlyweds escaped on their honeymoon to Capri and Rome.

Claire & Michael
August 27,2011
3 West Club • New York, NY

In The Spotlight
Ceremony Location: Cathedral of Saint Patrick
Celebrant: Reverend Christopher Pliauplis
Reception Location: 3 West Club
Photographer: Hechler Photographers
Entertainment: Hank Lane Music and Productions
Florist: Chestnuts in the Tuileries
Limousine Service: Silver Star Limousine
Cake Designer: Madame Butterfly Cakes
Bridal Salon: Exquisite Bride & Designer Loft
Veil: Exquisite Bride • Shoes: Jimmy Choo
Formal Attire: Coleman’s Tuxedos
Invitations: Dempsey & Carroll
Favors: Bouchon Bakery
Hair Salon: Marie Bové Salon • Makeup Artist: Jeanine Mangan Makeup Designs
Jeweler: Jay Roberts Jewelers • Lighting: Stortz Lighting
Honeymoon Location: Rome Cavalieri, Rome & Hotel Punta Tragara, Capri― Italy

Jennifer and Robert met in 2002 through mutual friends, and it didn’t take long for certainty to set in. Their friendship turned into a loving relationship which led to a proposal at Robert Moses Beach, field 5, on April 18, 2008. “We sat down near the ocean, and Robert began to tell me how much he loved me. He started to put his jacket around me when he pulled a custom-made engagement ring from A & A Jewelers out of the pocket and kneeled in the sand and asked me to be his wife. I, of course, said yes and couldn’t wait to spread the news,” shared Jennifer.

With about two years until their big day, the newly engaged couple had plenty of time to plan their wedding. Jennifer and Robert called on wedding coordinator, Michelle from Classic Event Design to help ease any stress and to make most of the arrangements. She was available to answer any questions, refer vendors, and assist with keeping the two organized.

After months of planning, their April 9, 2010 wedding finally arrived. The ceremony took place at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, which is conveniently located in Robert’s neighborhood. The couple liked the modern décor, open floor plan, warm and intimate feel, and how the pews wrap around the altar. Jennifer walked down the aisle donning a diamond white Casablanca gown that she described as “classic and elegant.” It was made of silk satin, had a sweetheart neckline, diagonal ruching along the top bodice, and a slight pick-up style skirt. She held a bouquet of white calla lilies, hydrangea, dendrobian orchids, with one white rose tucked behind to represent her Grandma Rose. The groom sported a Ralph Lauren tuxedo with a white shirt, diamond white vest, and tie. Robert reminisced, “Reciting our vows was my favorite memory of the day. We were able to write our own, which made the ceremony that much more special.”

The reception was held at the Venetian Yacht Club, chosen for its classic and quaint atmosphere and welcoming staff. From the gorgeous ballroom with windows overlooking the Robert Moses Bridge and sunset views, marble dance floor, to the overall décor of the facility, Jennifer knew this was the perfect facility to host her wedding from the moment she walked into the Venetian Yacht Club. In addition, the staff treated the couple like royalty.

Chris from LI Sound DJ had guests out on the dance floor all night. Not only did the couple like the selection of music and how personable Chris was, but he also set the mood by providing lighting that changed colors throughout the evening. The newlyweds shared their first dance together as husband and wife to “History In The Making” by Darius Rucker. They also participated in the traditional parent dances.

Guests enjoyed a multitude of food during cocktail hour, from passed hors d’oeuvres to a variety of stations of pasta, carving, and seafood arrangements. A choice of glazed Atlantic salmon, filet mignon, duck jubilee, lemon roasted chicken, or grilled vegetable lasagna was served for dinner.

Designed by The Rolling Pin Bake Shop, the wedding cake was four-tiered with a satin, dark purple ribbon on the base of each tier. Cappuccino, espresso, and after-dinner cordials were also served during dessert, in addition to petite fours, chocolate covered strawberries, and truffles. Robert commented, “My mouth still waters to this day when I think of everything I ate.” Jennifer added, “The food was excellent and the selection was never ending. None of our guests went home hungry.”

Throughout the day’s events, Dennis of Denisimo Photography captured the special moments in a photojournalistic approach. Dennis’ artistic eye and modern style allowed him to take many creative pictures, while still providing Jennifer and Robert plenty of time with their guests. The couple was also impressed working with JPI Films. “Our wedding video is going to be the most memorable thing from our wedding. Joe used new techniques that made our wedding video priceless,” noted the bride. “Our video not only makes me cry, but it brings me back to relive our wedding every time I watch it.” Following the reception, Jennifer and Robert escaped to the Riviera Maya, Mexico for a honeymoon in paradise.

Jennifer & Robert
April 9, 2010
Venetian Yacht Club • Babylon, NY

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony Location: Our Lady of Lourdes Church
Celebrant: Father Bob Scheckenback
Reception Location: Venetian Yacht Club
Photographer: Denisimo Photography & Video
Videographer: JPI Films • Entertainment: LI Sound
Florist: Flowers by Brian
Limousine Service: Cruise Control Limousines
Cake Designer: The Rolling Pin Bake Shop
Bridal Salon & Veil: Village Bridal & Boutique
Shoes: Nina Shoes • Formal Attire: Ralph Lauren
Invitations: Classic Event Designs
Favors: Donation to the American Cancer Society
Hair Salon: Bella Sposa • Makeup Artist: Jill Harth
Jeweler: A & A Jewelers
Honeymoon Location: Secrets Capri- Riviera Cancun, Mexico

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

“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!

“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!!

Walk through the doors of Jericho Terrace and your dream of a storybook wedding will begin to unfold right before your eyes. Impeccable service, style, superb cuisine and excellence in every aspect of the affair, has become the trademark for this highly renowned family owned business.

Conveniently located in the heart of Long Island’s prestigious North Shore and neighboring some of the finest hotels on the gold coast, the Jericho Terrace is ideal for both local and out of town guests.

A circular driveway surrounding a fountain and perfectly manicured gardens make for a spectacular entrance into the brand new, gleaming marble lobby. Inside, guests are surrounded by the brilliance of a European setting. Glowing fireplaces, waterfalls, and skylight ballrooms are just some of the breathtaking amenities all contributing to a truly sophisticated atmosphere.

Jericho Terrace offers the finest in receptions accommodating from 75-500 guests. A magnificent feature is their indoor/outdoor cocktail rooms with garden atriums that are alive with the splendor of a tropical paradise. You will not want to miss viewing their newly renovated skylight room featuring an astonishing 40-foot skylight.

If you ever have experienced an event here, you already understand why excellence has become synonymous with their name. The chef has become a legendary figure at The Jericho Terrace and is about to celebrate his 15th year of award-winning cuisine and customer satisfaction. You’ll experience nothing but the best in freshness and quality, displayed and served to perfection.

A team of professional banquet consultants will guide you every step of the way and satisfy your every need.

The Jericho Terrace philosophy is simple, they treat every affair with great consideration and attention to detail. This philosophy and the consistency of excellence is what will bring all the stories that begin at the Jericho Terrace to a happy ending.

Jericho Terrace
249 Jericho Turnpike · Mineola, NY 11501
Phone: 516-742-5251 · Fax: 516-742-2134 · Website:http://www.JerichoTerrace.com