May
2012
Real Wedding of Meghan & John at South Gate Manor
Meghan and John grew up on the same block, but it wasn’t until June of 2005 that they got to know each other at the Portuguese Festival, and began to officially date two months later. On November 16, 2009, John went to Meghan’s house for a casual date night with a movie and a bag of Cracker Jacks, into which he had slipped a gorgeous white gold princess-cut ring. “When she finally found it I was already on my knee asking her to marry me,” John recalled. Meghan said yes, and the couple began planning their modern couture wedding. On August 13, 2011, Meghan woke up early at her parents’ house and began prepping with her bridesmaids, mother, and flower girls. Melissa and Nicole of Melissa D’Aloia & Co. pampered the girls to perfection with hair and makeup applications. “Melissa was amazing to work with and made us feel glamorous,” said Meghan.
The ceremony took place at the bride’s parish, St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church. Meghan looked stunning in her ivory Kenneth Pool gown made of royal duchess satin with a sweetheart neckline, asymmetrical ruched bodice, and trumpet-style skirt. The rhinestone accents on the dress flawlessly complemented her rhinestone-embellished hair comb and fingertip-length veil with rhinestone and beaded edging. John wore a classic black two-button Calvin Klein tuxedo with an ivory shirt, vest, and tie. During their traditional full mass ceremony, the two exchanged vows and participated in a unity candle service, and as part of a family tradition, a bag piper played as guests entered and exited the church.
The Studio Photographers and Fiore Films documented the day’s special moments. The couple loved both vendors’ work from the start, and knew that they were the right choice for their big day. “The Studio Photographers’ photojournalistic style never ceased to impress me. Frank and PJ were professional, organized, and created a relaxed environment,” said Meghan. They were equally pleased with Fiore Films: “Sharrone and her two assistants did not disappoint. They blended in and most of the time we didn’t even realize they were filming us. They were a pleasure to work with,” the bride commented.
When Meghan and John first visited South Gate Manor, they were immediately impressed by the facility’s overall look, from the marble flooring and grand staircase to the well-maintained grounds and cocktail hour room. “We liked how there was enough seating for every guest, and the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking their garden area with additional lounge furniture, gazebo, and fountain,” noted John. The knowledgeable, accommodating staff at South Gate Manor also factored into the couple’s decision. Bobby, the maitre d’, was especially helpful during their reception. “Bobby was outside waiting for us when the limousine pulled up to South Gate and took care of us throughout the night,” said Meghan. The groom also noted that the staff treated the couple like royalty, and that all of their special requests were fulfilled.
Jeff from SCE Event Group provided the music for the evening, playing everything from Frank Sinatra to current club hits. Meghan and John shared their first dance to Josh Groban’s “When You Say You Love Me,” and participated in the traditional parent dances. Additionally, Sound Connection provided LED uplighting, dancing under the stars, and intelligent lighting, creating a club-like atmosphere. When asked what their favorite memory of the day was, the newlyweds agreed it was seeing each other for the first time. Meghan and John continue to thank their vendors and parents for all their hard work. “Without them we never would have been able to have the wedding we envisioned.”
Meghan and John
August 13, 2011
South Gate Manor • Freehold, NJ
Vendors:
Ceremony Location: Saint Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church
Officiant: Reverend James W. McGuffey • Reception Location: South Gate Manor
Photographer: The Studio Photographers • Cinematographer: Fiore Films
Ceremony Music: Thomas Juno • Entertainment: SCE Event Group
Limousine Service: First Class Limousine Service • Florist: Rosie Posies
Cake Designer: South Gate Manor • Bridal Salon and Veil: Exquisite Bride
Headpiece: Castle Couture • Shoes: Love by Enzoani • Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist: Melissa D’Aloia & Co.
Jeweler: Cantor Jewelry Co., Inc., Swarovski, & Lauren B.
Invitations: Riley Creative
Favors: Donations to Northeastern Boxer Rescue & Susan G. Komen for the Cure
Aisle Runner: The Original Runner Co.
Card Box: Etsy.com/JamieKimDesigns • Cake Stand: Sarah’s Stands
To read more about Meghan and John’s big day, pick up the latest New Jersey edition of Contemporary Bride Magazine!
