Nicole and Stephen were set up on a blind date by his brother and sister-in-law. Following an evening in Hoboken on November 3, 2006, they hit it off and began dating. About four years later, Stephen proposed while they were on vacation in New Hampshire. “I was planning this moment for months and had the ring in my pocket all week. It was one of the most stressful weeks of my life, but it was perfect,” shared Stephen.

After months of planning, the wedding day arrived. Guests were invited to the celebration with custom invitations featuring an eggplant bow, flower, and rhinestone embellishments designed by Jaynee’s Party. “Choosing our invitations was my favorite part of planning and made the wedding come to life,” commented the bride.

Nicole and Stephen were married on the day of Nicole’s grandparents’ anniversary at St. Margaret of Cortona Roman Catholic Church during an unseasonal snowstorm. Escorted by her father, the bride walked down the aisle donning an exquisite Kenneth Pool trumpet-style gown. A cathedral-length blusher veil and double headband completed her wedding day attire. Stephen sported a classic black Calvin Klein tuxedo, while the groomsmen wore wine-colored vests that coordinated with the bridesmaids’ dresses.

The reception was held at The Estate at Florentine Gardens, which was chosen for its grand architecture, pristine grounds, and welcoming staff. “Our coordinator, Denise Downing, was fabulous. She never said the word no, and we left our first meeting feeling well taken care of,” commented Nicole. The couple also liked how the facility offered only one event at a time. The grand ballroom was decorated beautifully with the help of Metropolitan Plant and Flower Exchange. Crystal candelabras topped with white and green floral arrangements, five pillar candles, and scattered rose petals made up each tablescape design. Blue uplighting added just enough color to the décor for an added romantic touch.

From cocktail hour throughout dinner, guests were served a variety of food to satisfy their palate. Dinner began with a crab cake appetizer over organic micro greens, red and yellow tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella drizzled with balsamic and herb oil. Following a lemon sorbet, guests were given the choice of filet mignon, French-cut chicken breast, or Chilean sea bass for the main entrée. Dessert served a selection of sweet confections during the Viennese hour, including zeppoles and waffle sundaes, in addition to the wedding cake designed by Palermo’s Bakery.

Milton Gil Photographers captured the day’s events flawlessly with many candid photographs taken throughout the grounds of Florentine Gardens. The couple even braved the snowstorm for outdoor photographs, which Nicole mentioned were “the most magical pictures I’ve ever seen.” The newlyweds were equally pleased working with Sal Travis Entertainment, who caught the most memorable moments on film.

After seeing Platinum Band Music perform at a friend’s wedding a month before, Nicole and Stephen were impressed by the band’s high energy. “Just by watching the band members you can tell they have fun too,” noted Stephen. For the first dance as newlyweds, Nicole and Stephen danced to “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers.

Rather than providing traditional wedding favors, the couple opted to surprise guests with a sweets truck. As guests exited the Florentine Gardens, they were given a bag to fill with delectable treats from White Castle burgers to Dunkin Donuts and candy to enjoy for the ride home. Following the reception, the newlyweds escaped to Maui, Hawaii for their honeymoon. They are currently enjoying their time together as a married couple and look forward to traveling in the near future.

Nicole & Stephen
October 29, 2011
The Estate at Florentine Gardens • River Vale, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony Location: St. Margaret of Cortona Roman Catholic Church
Officiants: Father Art Humphrey and Deacon John Del Giudice
Reception Location: The Estate at Florentine Gardens
Photographer: Milton Gil Photographers
Videographer: Sal Travis Entertainment
Entertainment: Platinum Band Music
Florist: Metropolitan Plant & Flower Exchange
Limousine Service: Town Limousine
Cake Designer: Palermo’s Custom Cakes & Bakery
Bridal Salon & Headpiece: Jaehee Bridal Atelier
Veil: Kenneth Pool • Shoes: Bridal by Butter
Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Invitations & Favors: Jaynee’s Party
Hair Stylist: Cathy Morin • Makeup Artist: Carol Hanna
Jeweler: Devon Fine Jewelry • Candelabras: Regal Candelabra
Honeymoon Location: Kula Lodge and Restaurant & Kaanapali Alii― Maui, Hawaii

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

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

Vita and Jason were at his beach house on Long Beach Island to celebrate Fourth of July, but little did Vita know they would be soon celebrating another occasion. Jason asked Vita to take a ride with him on the boat, but when his brother wanted to tag along with them, Jason quickly pulled away leaving his brother behind. On the way back to the house, he asked Vita to steer the boat, and when she looked over at him, Jason was down on one knee. “I was confused at first and thought Jason was looking for something on the boat’s floor. When I realized what was happening I was shocked and excited,” Vita reminisced. The wedding date was set for August 13, 2010.

While some people fear that the number 13 brings bad fortune, the couple’s wedding was perfect, from the gorgeous weather to all of the finest details. The ceremony took place at Immaculate Heart of Mary, the parish in which Vita made all of her sacraments. The bride walked down the aisle in a stunning Enzoani mermaid-style gown. It was all lace, had a long train, and was embellished with a flowered belt. She held a bouquet of cream hydrangea, white lizianthus, Eskimo and vendela roses, and white Majolica spray roses. “Vita took my breath away when I first saw her,” recollected Jason. The groom looked sharp in a black Tony Conte tuxedo with a white shirt, ivory vest, and tie.

Dave and PJ from The Studio Photographers captured the day’s events flawlessly. Having seen their work at a previous wedding Vita attended, she immediately fell in love with their unique style. The couple liked how Dave and PJ were laid back, organized, made them feel comfortable in front of the camera, and how they were able to get their large bridal party to cooperate.

Chosen for the gorgeous grounds, pristine landscaping, and a beautiful ballroom with high ceilings, a scene of a blue sky and clouds, and crystal chandeliers, as well as a notable reputation for superior service and exquisite food, the reception was held at Nanina’s in the Park. In addition, the couple was impressed with the warm and welcoming staff and how helpful they were from beginning to end. “The staff was very accommodating, was there with anything we needed, and were willing to go the extra mile for us,” noted Jason.

Throughout the reception, The Infernos entertained guests by playing a variety of live music that accommodated every age from the five-year-old flower girls to their grandparents. Vita and Jason shared their first dance to “Thank You For Loving Me” by Bon Jovi and also participated in the parent dances to “I Loved Her First” by Heartland and “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts.

For dinner, guests were served a double entrée of swordfish with a rock shrimp sauce baked into a pastry shell and chateau briand with the option to switch either of them out for eggplant rollatini or chicken sorrentino. “The food was out of this world, and guests are still talking about how much food there was,” commented Vita. For dessert, the guests of honor opted for a full Venetian hour where guests indulged in zeppolis stuffed with Oreo cookies, a crepe station, an ice cream bar, a chocolate fountain with various dippings, a Belgium waffle station, a gelato bar, and chocolate martinis. The four-tiered wedding cake, designed by Palermo’s Bakery, had a dot pattern on two layers, while the other two layers were adorned with a fondant ribbon and antique brooch.

Vita and Jason
August 13, 2010
Nanina’s In The Park • Belleville, NJ

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: Immaculate Heart of Mary Church
Celebrant: Father Kevin
Reception Location: Nanina’s In The Park
Photographer: The Studio Photographers
Videographer: Videoccasions • Entertainment: The Infernos
Limousine Service: Call Me A Limo
Florists: Pierpont’s Blossom Farm & Sag Harbor Florist
Cake Designer: Palermo’s Bakery
Bridal Salon: Bijou Bridal & Special Occasion • Veil: Wedding Shoppe, Inc
Headpiece: Model Bride • Formal Attire: Tony Conte
Invitations: Strawberri Graphix • Favors: Homemade Wine
Hair Salon & Makeup Studio: Public Image Limited
Jeweler: Tejani

Jon wanted to ask Nicole out from the minute he saw her bartending at a local bar. They became friends and soon after went on their first date. Seven years later Jon told Nicole they were going to New York City for dinner and to see the musical “Jersey Boys.” After walking a few blocks in the wind and snow, they finally approached the middle of Times Square where Jon got down on one knee and asked Nicole to be his wife. The wedding date was set for September 1, 2011― a memorable date and “a great way to kick off one of the best party weekends of the summer,” commented Jon. Chosen for its manicured landscape with beautiful gardens and fountains, outstanding service, and delectable food, the ceremony and reception were held at The Estate at Florentine Gardens. “As soon as we walked into the facility, I got the chills and could instantly picture our wedding there,” shared Nicole. Additionally, the couple liked how Florentine Gardens hosts only one event at a time and they were able to have their entire ceremony on location making it much easier for their guests.

Prior to the ceremony, the staff at the Florentine Gardens, along with the photographers and videographers, set up the couple’s “first sighting”, which was the bride’s favorite memory of the day. Nicole donned a satin, Alita Graham fit-to-flare, mermaid style dress with a sweetheart neckline, ruching, and embellished with crystals and beading. Her ballet-length veil lined with Swarovski crystals and crystal peep-toe Benjamin Adams shoes completed her look. “Nikki looked absolutely stunning! It was at that point my nerves settled and I was ready to marry the love of my life,” noted the groom. It was a beautiful sunny day for the couple’s outdoor ceremony. Officiated by Reverend Andy Topp and Nicole’s uncle, Father Marc Bolsvert, the couple exchanged vows, wedding bands, and participated in a unity sand ceremony.

Dean from Dean Michaels Studio captured the day in photography. “The second I met Dean I was comfortable. He is such a fun loving guy and it’s very easy to get wrapped up in a conversation with him,” noted Nicole.

Following the “I do’s”, guests enjoyed cocktail hour with a variety of food from carving stations including lamb rolled skirt steak to sushi, pasta, and hors d’oeuvres. A mojito bar was also available during cocktail hour which served as the couple’s signature drink. For dinner, guests had a choice of potato crusted Chilean sea bass or filet mignon with shallot merlot sauce for the main entrée. Guests were treated to a four-tiered wedding cake designed by Palermo’s Custom Cakes & Bakery and a Viennese hour for dessert. From the custom invitations to the reception décor, Nicole and Jon’s wedding showcased their upscale Manhattan nightlife themed celebration. Set on white linens with fuchsia overlays were square glass vases in three different heights filled with water, orchids, and a floating candle, while crystals, orchid heads, and candles were scattered at the base. Silver beaded charger plates, crystal napkin rings, and silver chairs completed the tablescape designs.

Sal Travis had guests dancing the night away to music ranging from LMFAO, Pitbull, Michael Jackson and Bon Jovi. For their first dance as newlyweds, Nicole and Jon danced to “Two is Better Than One” by Boys Like Girls featuring Taylor Swift. Sal Travis also provided the lighting and video throughout the evening.

After the celebration, Nicole and Jon honeymooned in Italy. They are looking for their first home and look forward to their first holiday season together as newlyweds.

Nicole and Jon
September 1, 2011
The Estate at Florentine Gardens • Rivervale, NJ

Vendors:
Ceremony & Reception Location: The Estate at Florentine Gardens
Officiants: Reverend Andy Topp & Father Marc Bolsvert
Photographer: Dean Michaels Studio
Videographer & Entertainment: Sal Travis
Florist: Carbone Creative
Limousine Service: NJ Limo Bus & Limousine
Cake Designer: Palermo’s Custom Cakes & Bakery
Bridal Salon & Veil: Kleinfeld • Shoes: Benjamin Adams
Formal Attire: Biltmore Tuxedos • Invitations: Carbone Creative
Favors: Donations to Free the Kids and IHAF
Hair Salon & Makeup Studio: V Capelli Salon
Jeweler: Jared the Galleria of Jewelry & Tejani
Honeymoon Locations:
Hotel Berchielli- Florence, InterContinental de la Ville- Rome, & Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Melissa and Anthony met while working at Lincoln Annex Kindergarten Center. Three years later after their initial meeting on a beautiful sunny day, Anthony took Melissa to Central Park to celebrate her birthday. While on a romantic gondola ride around the lake, Anthony got down on one knee and proposed. “It was the best birthday I ever had,” reminisced Melissa. After about two years of planning, the big day finally arrived. Guests received custom invitations created by Jaynee’s Party, which set the tone of the event with gold trimming, silk ribbon, and a beautiful tulle flower with a crystal in the middle. Melissa noted, “Jaynee was our wedding angel.”

The ceremony took place at First Presbyterian Church, where the bride walked down the aisle donning an ivory Enzoani gown with a mermaid silhouette, lace straps, a cathedral length train, and embellished with Swarovski crystals. A cathedral length veil scalloped with sequins and Swarovski crystals and Swarovski crystal Christian Louboutin shoes completed Melissa’s stunning look. Anthony waited at the altar sporting a black tuxedo, white shirt, and ivory bowtie. Once announced as husband and wife, the newlyweds rang the tower’s bells at the end of the ceremony- an old tradition said to bring good luck.

Chosen for its modern design, beautiful grounds, exceptional food, and reputation, the reception was held at Westmount Country Club. “When I first saw the Westmount Country Club, I was pleased with the overall appearance both inside and out from the Continental room with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the mountains and garden area with a fountain, stone patio tables and benches with umbrellas,” commented Melissa. Cocktail hour began with an abundance of food including butler passed hors d’oeuvres, a pasta station, carving station, hot seafood grill, sauté station, raw seafood bar, an Asian station, and the couple’s signature drink choice of frozen margaritas. For dinner, guests had a choice of Chateaubriand, roasted French breast of chicken, summer seafood bake, or eggplant parmigiana, served with seasonal vegetables and potato.

Designed by Palermo’s Bakery, the four tiered chocolate and white wedding cake was embellished with crystals on the bottom of each layer, two large bows with a brooch, and an initial cake topper made of Swarovski crystals. Guests danced the night away with the help of Ultimate Entertainment DJ’s. Alex played a variety of music genres from Spanish and Italian to today’s top hits. For their first dance as newlyweds, Melissa and Anthony held the spotlight to “All the Way” by Frank Sinatra, sung by the bride’s father. The couple also participated in the traditional parent dances.

Abbey Photography captured the special moments from the wedding in photography and video. The couple’s photographer, Neal was accommodating, answered their questions, made them feel comfortable, and took both classic and photojournalistic pictures. In lieu of traditional favors, Melissa and Anthony informed guests that donations were made to the American Cancer Society and Diabetes. A truck was also set up outside with good-bye treats for guests to enjoy on their ride home. Following the wedding, the newlyweds escaped on their honeymoon to Hawaii and Las Vegas.

Melissa and Anthony
July 3, 2011
Westmount Country Club • Woodland Park, NJ

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: First Presbyterian Church
Officiants: Reverend Richard Hong & Reverend Richard J. Mucowski, OFM, PH.D. Pastor
Reception Location: Westmount Country Club
Photographer & Videographer: Abbey Photographers
Entertainment: Ultimate Entertainment DJ’s
Florist: Atlas Floral Decorators Inc.
Limousine Service: Danaro Limousine
Cake Designer: Palermo’s Custom Cakes & Bakery
Bridal Salon: RK Bridal Salon • Headpiece: M &  J Trimmings
Headpiece: Made by Bride’s Grandmother • Shoes: Christian Louboutin
Formal Attire: Kleinfeld • Invitations: Jaynee’s Party
Favors: Donations to the American Cancer Society & Diabetes
Hair Salon: Salon 5 • Makeup Studio: Jacqueline Pasquale Beauty
Jeweler: Minas Jewelry
Honeymoon Locations: Four Seasons Resort― Maui at Wailea, Hawaii and Wynn― Las Vegas, NV

Tom Cruise recently received an Entertainment Icon Award from the Friars Club. To help culminate the event and to celebrate his 50th birthday, a cake designed by Palermo’s Custom Cakes & Bakery was presented to him, which highlighted his acting talent. The elements of the cake includes elements reminiscent of popular scenes from Cruises’ films. Take a look at more pictures of the cake being made and to read more about the event by visiting http://www.palermobakery.com!

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

Designed by Palermo’s Custom Cakes and Bakery, this four-tiered quilted fondant wedding cake is accented with pin dots, a deep chocolate colored bow, and just a touch of sparkle with simple cake jewelry. For more information visit http://www.PalermoBakery.com.

This elegant and colorful square wedding cake was created with modern separated floating tiers by Palermo’s Custom Cakes and Bakery. Iced in an ivory rolled fondant with brown icing branch work, this three-tiered fondant wedding cake is adorned with colorful fondant leaves and bright gum paste floral work. These colors are perfect for a fall wedding but can be customized for any time of the year with the flowers and color of your choice! For more information visit http://www.PalermoBakery.com.