Photo by McKay Images

Photo by Contemporary Image

Photo by Jessica Lauren Photography

Photo by Anna Rozenblat Photography

Photo by J. Paul Studios

Photo by Bird and Branch Photography

Photo by Shira Weinberger Photography

Photo by KSS Photography

Photo by Ricky Restiano Photography

Photo by Stephanie Jones Photography

Photo by Infinity Photography

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

Happy Monday beauties! To start out another amazing week ahead, we’re sharing some lovely fall inspirations from Mandy Liento, owner of La Sorella Bridal. (Don’t worry, we’re certainly not passing up the spring or summer just yet. We have so many fun inspirations to share for the upcoming season, but we just couldn’t wait to share all of the gorgeousness from this autumn shoot.) Mandy used this photo shoot as an opportunity to showcase two ladies (hair stylist, Kristen and makeup artist, Dawn) from her talented team. Mandy and her fabulous team pulled together a selection of talented models, beautiful dresses, and gorgeous accessories for this shoot. All the dresses and some of the accessories came from I Do…I Do… in Morristown. Alisa Brides also provided some accessories and custom veils! The shoot took place at the Valley Regency in Clifton, New Jersey, where the vibrant tones of the fall foliage added the perfect amount of color and warmth. With the addition of beautiful bouquets from Valley Regency’s house florist Regency Design, they were all set for a fantastic shoot. Photos were taken by Brittany Ostrov from Brittany O photography, who specializes in bridal and journalistic photogrpahy.

Many say that allowing a pet to be a part of your wedding day is a huge responsibility, and while it might be, more couple’s are opting to include their “best friends” in their special day. After seeing these photos below from Bridal Styles Boutique, we couldn’t resist and had to share these Bridal Style Brides posing with their four-legged friends. Whether your pooch walks down the aisle, tags along for your wedding photographs, or just spends the morning with you as you get ready, you’re sure to look back on your wedding photographs without regrets. After all, your pet is a part of the family and “has been there for you through thick and thin.” Did you incorporate your pet in your wedding day? Be sure to leave us a comment and tell us how! We would love to hear your thoughts.

While uncooperative rain may seem like the absolute worst thing that can happen on your wedding day, embrace the weather for what it is! Allow your photographer and videographer to capture some beautiful pictures as you and your new spouse cuddle up under a large umbrellas throughout your facility’s outside grounds. You may be surprised as to what ends up being captured in photography and on film. Along with Videoccasions, we too think a little rain (or in some cases a lot), bring good luck to the newly married couple! Did it rain on your wedding day? How did you handle inclement weather?

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

1. Plan Ahead for Unexpected Weather- unfortunately the sun isn’t always shining, but don’t let rain or even snow bring you down. Have a backup plan with an alternate location for pictures.
2. Family Photographs- inform anyone you want in your family portraits the appropriate time and location ahead of time.
3. Time Management- give yourself enough time to enjoy the day. The last thing you want is unnecessary stress due to unforeseen traffic or hair and makeup touch-ups.

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

Thank you Jessica Urzua of Jessica Lauren Photography for sharing this beautiful classic wedding picture. For more information visit http://www.JessicaLaurenPhoto.com.

Wedding parasols are a great and easy wedding detail for any type of wedding. Parasols will provide a perfect photo opportunity, while they can keep guests shaded during a beach, destination wedding, or outdoor ceremony and can even double as wedding favors!

Photography by Tommy Colbert