19 minute read
Marianna & James at Sheraton Eatontown
Marianna & James
SHERATON EATONTOWN EATONTOWN, NJ 12.04.2020
Photography by Inspire Me Imagery
James had just graduated from college and was hired by Target as an executive team leader. He was supposed to be placed in a different store, but as luck would have it, he ended up at the Clark location. At the time, Marianna received a promotion, which was also at the Clark Target. The stars aligned and the two met on her first day. “I swear my heart skipped a beat when I first saw James,” Marianna recalled. She, too, made a first impression on James. “She had beautiful eyes and a smile that lit up the room. I knew I wanted to get to know her more.”
Fast-forward about four years later. One of their favorite places to walk around is Rutgers Gardens. On October 20, 2018, they were about two weeks from closing on their first house, and James suggested they take a ride. They found a pretty gazebo, and James told her to stand in it with her back toward him so he could take a photo of her amid the natural surroundings. When Marianna turned around, James was down on one knee proposing. “It was perfect.”
Playing Favorites: Picking out her wedding gown at Kleinfeld Bridal with her mom and grandma was Marianna’s favorite part of wedding planning. Although Marianna prepared by creating a profile on their website of gowns she liked and wanted to try on, her consultant pulled a wild card that spoke to her. “My mom and grandma were in tears. I knew it was the one,” Marianna shared. The A-line gown featured a V-neckline, open back with buttons, lace, and embroidery detailing.
Groom’s Attire: The groom sported a charcoal gray suit with matching vest, white shirt, and black bow tie. He also wore his Harry Potter Deathly Hallows cuff links.
Cuisine Choices: Cocktail hour served a variety of selections for every palate, including a Tuscany table, carving station, pasta station, and even a stadium station offering cheeseburger sliders, mini hot dogs, and French fries. For dinner, guests had a choice of New York strip, chicken, or ginger-infused salmon.
Something Sweet: The newlyweds cut into a three-tier ombre wedding cake to the song “Marry You” by Bruno Mars. The yellow cake was filled with raspberry and was frosted with buttercream icing. Guests were also treated to coffee, tea, and a warming station serving hot chocolate.
Ceremony & Reception Location: Sheraton Eatontown Officiant: Ryan Calvi Photographer: Inspire Me Imagery Entertainment: Off The Chart Entertainment Floral Designer: Garden State Floral Design Cake Designer: Chocolate Carousel Wedding Gown, Headpiece, and Veil: Kleinfeld Shoes: Nina Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Minted Favors: Etsy Hair Stylists: Tina Penna Hair and From This Day Forward Makeup Artists: Christine’s Beauty Bar and From This Day Forward Jeweler: Jared and Littman Jewelers
www.PinesManor.com
2021 Wedding Trends
Looking ahead at how couples will say “I Do”
By Meghan Chalfant
As we rang in the 2020 New Year across the world, engaged couples, vendors, and guests alike had such high hopes for what should have been one amazing 2020 wedding season. A few months passed with so many wedding plans on the horizon, and then COVID-19 changed EVERYTHING. While the pandemic initially brought broken hearts, anxiety, and panic, it also without a doubt has changed the wedding industry as a whole and the way couples are tying the knot. Weddings right now might not be exactly what we’re all accustomed to, but we did learn that love is without a doubt the only thing that matters at the end of the day. Weddings moving forward will be more intentional with a focus on what matters most, while industry experts join forces behind the scenes to make every celebration as seamless as it possibly can be during a global pandemic. If you’re determined to not let the virus stop you from saying “I do” in the near future, continue reading our 2021 wedding trend predictions!
BRUNCH WEDDINGS
Don’t underestimate a brunch-style wedding. After all, who doesn’t love a celebration where breakfast and lunch favorites combine with heartfelt I do’s?! Consider serving passed hors d’oeuvres, such as French toast sticks served in maple syrup-filled cups, various quiches, and tea sandwiches, followed by an elegant, amped-up plated selection. Think New York style bagels with salmon and cream cheese, lemon ricotta pancakes, fried chicken and waffles, and steak and eggs for the main dishes. Bring on the endless mimosas and bloody Marys!
LIVESTREAMING WEDDINGS
Livestreaming the wedding ceremony will be particularly important and more sought after throughout the coming year. While travel restrictions will eventually pass, couples might have invited out-of-state guests who might not be able to make the trip, whether it be due to not getting time off of work or health-related issues. That’s where broadcasting your wedding ceremony via Zoom or another outlet comes in! Loved ones will still be able to cheer you on as you exchange vows and become newlyweds, even if it’s from afar.
OUTDOOR TENTED WEDDINGS
For those couples who have their heart set on a larger wedding, choosing to have your wedding reception outside under a tent is a great idea, especially during unprecedented times. You’ll have more room to spread out guest tables and improve ventilation with fresh air circulation, while still transforming tents into a magical space. Location is everything when hosting an outdoor tented wedding! It’s important to focus on the view of what guests will take in as they look around past the tent, as well as the season. What we love the most though is how tented weddings can be so versatile in style. Choose a clear tent for guests to dine under the stars without the worry of inclement weather, suspend chandeliers and/or twinkle lights for romantic lighting, and make your dance floor a focal point with a personalized vinyl decal. The sky is the limit when it comes to tent décor!
The Estate at Florentine Gardens
WEEKDAY WEDDINGS
Move over, weekend weddings, there are hot new wedding dates in town and we’re TOTALLY here for it! Don’t be afraid to choose a wedding date that falls between Monday and Thursday. Keeping an open mind will offer you more flexibility, especially if you have your heart set on a specific venue or if you want to tie the knot on the day you started dating, on a meaningful holiday, or perhaps even one of your parents or grandparents’ anniversaries. Plus, you can add on extra wedding activities to keep the party going. For example, if you choose to get married on a Monday, you can host a welcome party on Saturday, and another group activity on Sunday, such as a cookout, pub crawl, or even a booze cruise. Think of it as a mini getaway for guests!
Nicole Klym Photography
Barbara Marcello Photography
MICRO WEDDINGS
Intimate weddings might not have been on your wedding radar, but there are so many reasons why more and more couples are opting for a small-scale celebration. We’re here to tell you that you can in fact have all the elements of a traditional wedding, even with a reduced guest count. Plus, you’ll have more venue options and can create a full wedding experience that guests will appreciate and, more importantly, remember. Think of micro weddings as an opportunity to spend more time during your best day ever with those you love most.
Limelight Entertainment
INTERACTIVE FOOD TRUCKS
Food trucks are a great way to bring a personalized touch to your wedding in a flavorful and interactive way. Whether you and your fiancé partake in taco Tuesday each week, pizza Friday, or you want to pay homage to your NYC roots with hot dogs and grill-fired pretzels, street food is a fun and easy way to make your wedding pretty epic.
SENTIMENTAL & DETAILED DECOR
COMMUNICATING THE DETAILS
With a smaller guest count comes the affordability to focus on the finer details that you had your heart set on. Maybe you opt for surprise entertainment like a guitarist for cocktail hour, add on those rentals to create a cozy lounge area, or splurge on lush florals or the photographer and videographer. Saving on catering–the wedding category where the majority of your budget would have been otherwise spent–allows you to allocate money in other areas that might have been out of budget if you were hosting a larger wedding.
It goes without saying that pretty paper is key when it comes to communicating all the details and setting the tone for your wedding day. But what happens when you unfortunately have to postpone your wedding or adjust your original plans? Now more than ever, invitation suites and stationery, along with wedding websites, have become the most essential wedding details. Meghan Shaughnessy, owner and creative director of Lace and Belle, suggests sending change-the-date cards to quickly relay to guests your plans have changed. She also recommends that couples also add their wedding website to the cards informing guests to frequently visit for continuous details and updates. “Doing this as early as possible is crucial, as it helps family and friends establish a routine to stay informed in the easiest and most streamlined way possible,” Meghan mentioned.
After such a terrible and disheartening 2020, we cannot wait to see what the New Year brings for weddings. With so many postponements and loved ones impatiently waiting to put on their dancing shoes to celebrate, we just know weddings moving forward are going to be pretty incredible!
Vanessa Joy
Idalia Photography
SAVE THE DATE Courtney & Mike
5-16-21
Courtney & Mike
Engaged January 26, 2020 Friends First Courtney and Mike first met when she was visiting Ramapo College for her friend’s birthday. The two were introduced at a party and even became Facebook friends, but it wasn’t until Courtney transferred to Ramapo a few months later that they became friends. At the end of the semester, Mike showed up at her house with flowers asking her to be his girlfriend. She Said Yes The morning of January 26, 2020 started as a normal Sunday morning filled with house chores and getting ready for the week ahead before their lunch with friends in Belmar. When they arrived, Mike mentioned their friends were running a little late and suggested they take a walk on the boardwalk while they wait. Before Courtney knew it, Mike was down on one knee proposing. A friend was even close by with cameras capturing the moment. They celebrated with family and friends at Mike’s parents’ house in Jackson. Wedding Date May 16, 2021 Wedding Location Perona Farms Wedding Aesthetic Rustic Elegance Photographer Kelly Sea Images
The hospitality industry is committed to protecting our employees and guests. As we return to our daily lives, we pledge to you, our guests, to continue to be a leader in health, safety, and sanitation practices. - New Jersey Restaurant and Hospitality Association
BERGEN COUNTY
The Estate at Florentine Gardens
97 Rivervale Road • River Vale, NJ (201) 666-0444 • www.florentinegardens.com Warmth, comfort, and historic charm combine to set a magnificent and memorable backdrop. Our Georgian-style mansion features expansive gardens, spacious rooms, elegant décor, and world-class cuisine, all served up with an attentive staff who caters to every whim. Tented weddings available.
ESSEX COUNTY
Nanina’s in the Park
540 Mill Street • Belleville, NJ (973) 751-1230 • www.naninasinthepark.com Providing a backdrop that will transport you to a timeless villa in Tuscany, you will be immersed in a combination of lush outdoor gardens, grand interior ballrooms, marble staircases, sophisticated amenities and meticulously detailed ceilings and chandeliers.
Maximum Capacity Ceremony Site Outside Party Area Bridal Suite
350 Y Y Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person varies View Ad on Pages 2-3
Maximum Capacity Ceremony Site Outside Party Area Bridal Suite
400 Y Y Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person varies
View Ad on Inside Front Cover
MERCER COUNTY
Windsor Ballroom at the Holiday Inn East Windsor
399 Monmouth Street • East Windsor, NJ (609) 443-8000 • www.windsorballroom.com We pride ourselves in being one of the most highly rated Mercer County wedding venues. Our entire staff knows how important this day is to you and your family and friends, so we do our absolute best to make sure everyone’s experience exceeds their expectations.
Maximum Capacity Ceremony Site Outside Party Area Bridal Suite
220 Y Y Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person $84+ View Ad on Pages 14-15
MIDDLESEX COUNTY
The Estate at Farrington Lake
16 Patrick Street • East Brunswick, NJ 732-297-1500 • www.theestatenj.com A hidden jewel in the heart of Middlesex County, nestled on a 22-acre property overlooking Farrington Lake. Our years of experience, local expertise and celebrated cuisine ensures every detail of your private gathering is flawless.
Maximum Capacity Ceremony Site Outside Party Area Bridal Suite
350 Y Y Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person varies View Ad on Pages 16-17
MIDDLESEX COUNTY (cont’)
Château Grande Hotel
670 Cranbury Road • East Brunswick, NJ (732) 238-4600 • www.chateaugrandehotel.com Idyllic French-American facilities suggest a proper measure of grandeur fit for the most important occasions; modern dining & catering by the innovative chef David Burke complete the destination’s trifecta of event services, luxury lodging and relaxed bar & restaurant.
Maximum Capacity 150 Ceremony Site Y Outside Party Area Y Bridal Suite Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person varies View Ad on Page 1
Park Château Estate & Gardens
678 Cranbury Road • East Brunswick, NJ (732) 238-4200 • www.parkchateau.com Upholding superior service, exceptional cuisine and a spectacular setting that our clients have experienced from our other top-rated catering locations. Our new venue presents the authentic style and setting of a vintage French chateau with classic gardens. Tented weddings available.
The Pines Manor
2085 Route 27 • Edison, NJ (732) 287-2222 • www.pinesmanor.com Experience the wedding of your dreams. The exquisite marble and granite lobby, with walls upholstered in rich imported fabrics, sets the stage for your event while our team of culinary experts rise to the challenge of pleasing the most discerning palates. Tented weddings available.
Maximum Capacity 400 Ceremony Site Y Outside Party Area Y Bridal Suite Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person varies View Ad on Page Inside Back Cover
Maximum Capacity 1500 Ceremony Site Y Outside Party Area N Bridal Suite Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person $90+ View Ad on Page 22-23
MONMOUTH COUNTY
Bella Vista Country Club
100 School Road • Marlboro, NJ (732) 308.4600 • www.bellavistacountryclub.com Premier venues for weddings, showers, civil unions and events in Monmouth County. Our sprawling golf course sets the stage for a memorable event from our wedding pavillion or our tastefully designed clubhouse. Open-air Wedding Pavilion.
Crystal Ballroom at the Radisson Hotel Freehold
50 Gibson Place • Freehold, NJ (732) 780-3405 • www.crystalballroomnj.com Glamorous venue for your wedding reception. With gorgeous crystal chandeliers, indoor and outdoor ceremony areas, gourmet catering, and an expert team of event coordinators, it’s easy to see why the Crystal Ballroom is a Monmouth County favorite.
Maximum Capacity Ceremony Site Outside Area Bridal Suite
450 Y Y Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person $99+ View Ad on Page 31
Maximum Capacity Ceremony Site Outside Party Area Bridal Suite
300 Y Y Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person $89+ View Ad on Pages 14-15
MONMOUTH COUNTY (cont’)
Sheraton Eatontown Hotel
6 Industrial Way East • Eatontown, NJ (732) 542-6500 • www.sheratoneatontown.com/weddings The newly renovated Grand and Regal Ballrooms can host up to 350 guests with a large dance floor, spectacular infinity chandeliers, starlit atriums, rich natural textures and shimmering metallics. Room blocks are also available across our 208 renovated guest rooms and suites.
Sterling Ballroom at the DoubleTree by Hilton Tinton Falls - Eatontown
700 Hope Rd • Tinton Falls, NJ (732) 544-9305 • www.sterlingballroomevents.com From the chic, simplistic elegance of the DoubleTree and Sterling Ballroom lobby, to the understated glamour of the ballroom, you’ll find the same high-level of taste in every detail of your wedding day.
MORRIS COUNTY
Maximum Capacity Ceremony Site Outside Party Area Bridal Suite
350 Y Y Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person $114+ View Ad on Page 9
Maximum Capacity Ceremony Site Outside Party Area Bridal Suite
225 Y Y Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person $89+ View Ad on Pages 14-15
The Park Savoy
236 Ridgedale Avenue • Florham Park, NJ (973) 377-7100 • www.theparksavoy.com Step back to an age of glamour and elegance. The gracious and elegant Park Savoy Estate presents more than 50 years of catering tradition, reenvisioned with a spectacular multi-million dollar renovation. Lavishly manicured grounds for outdoor ceremonies and cocktail hours.
OCEAN COUNTY
Atlantis Ballroom at the Days Hotel Toms River
290 Route 37 East • Toms River, NJ (732) 731-8000 • www.atlantisballroom.com
Just minutes from the beach, Atlantis Ballroom is an Ocean County favorite for weddings. With indoor area, gourmet catering, Hollywood Lighting, and an expert team of event coordinators, we have everything you need under one roof. Maximum Capacity 225 Ceremony Site Y Outside Party Area N Bridal Suite Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person $69+ View Ad on Pages 14-15
Crystal Point Yacht Club
3900 River Road • Point Pleasant, NJ (732) 295-7000 • www.thecrystalpoint.com Newly renovated featuring our stunning Waterfall Bar! Crystal Point Yacht Club offers water views from every room, outdoor ceremony site overlooking the Manasquan River, on-site accommodations, outdoor fire pit, sound system & intelligent lighting, and the list goes on!
Versailles Ballroom at the Ramada Toms River
2373 Route 9 • Toms River, NJ (732) 719-1206 • www.versaillesballroom.com With our dramatic high ceilings, large dance floor, expansive bar, Veranda for cocktail hour, and outdoor area for photos, there’s ample space for everyone to strut their stuff beneath the cascading crystal chandeliers.
Maximum Capacity Ceremony Site Outside Party Area Bridal Suite
400 Y Y Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person varies View Ad on Outside Back Cover
Maximum Capacity Ceremony Site Outside Party Area Bridal Suite
300 Y Y Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person varies View Ad on Pages 4-5
Maximum Capacity Ceremony Site Outside Party Area Bridal Suite
300 Y Y Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person $84+ View Ad on Pages 14-15
NEW YORK
Grand Oaks Country Club
200 Huguenot Boulevard • Staten Island, NY (718) 356-2771 • www.grandoaksnyc.com The Grand Oaks Country Club goes above and beyond when setting the standard for superiority. Located in the heart of Staten Island, Grand Oaks overlooks a beautifully landscaped golf course, and specializes in kosher weddings.
Maximum Capacity 500 Ceremony Site Y Outside Party Area Y Bridal Suite Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person varies View Ad on Page 33
Grand Plaza
23 Nelson Avenue • Staten Island, NY (718) 967-4034 • www.grand-plaza.com One of Staten Island's premier wedding venues, Grand Plaza offers exquisite ambiance, gourmet food, and impeccable service with a dedication to quality that is second to none.
The Vanderbilt at South Beach
300 Father Capodanno Boulevard • Staten Island, NY (718) 447-0800 • www.vanderbiltsouthbeach.com Staten Island's exclusive beachfront facility with sweeping ocean views, attention to detail, and the option to take pristine elegance and professional white glove service outdoors.
Maximum Capacity Ceremony Site Outside Party Area Bridal Suite
250 Y N Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person varies View Ad on Page 37
Maximum Capacity Ceremony Site Outside Party Area Bridal Suite
450 Y Y Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person varies View Ad on Page 35
PENNSYLVANIA
Faunbrook Bed & Breakfast
699 West Rosedale Avenue • West Chester, PA (610) 436-5788 • www.faunbrook.com Faunbrook B&B is an 1860’s grand Victorian mansion in West Chester, PA. With seven guest rooms; and a beautiful, private outdoor patio and wraparound porch set on two acres, Faunbrook is ideal for Intimate weddings and events for 2 to 100 Guests.
Maximum Capacity 100 Ceremony Site Y Outside Party Area Y Bridal Suite Y Lighting Available Y Approx. Price Per Person varies View Ad on Page 29
This reference guide provides you with information of the finest New Jersey and New York wedding venues. All information is subject to change without notice. Please contact the facilities for more details.
