Melissa & Christopher at WoodsEdge Farm

Melissa & Christopher

WOODSEDGE FARM STOCKTON, NJ 10.24.2020

Photography by Monika de Myer

After swiping right on Tinder, Melissa and Christopher met in Manhattan’s East Village at The Cube–a sculpture located in Astor Place. The two hit it off and their conversation flowed so effortlessly, they even walked in circles around the East Village, passing their destination several times. About six years later on January 19, 2019, Melissa and Christopher planned to revisit some of their favorite bars and restaurants from when they first started dating. Despite the state of emergency for an impending snowstorm, Christopher was adamant they stick with their plan. After parking in the East Village, they walked by The Cube and Chris proposed. “I was in complete shock and immediately started sobbing happy tears,” Melissa reminisced.

First Moments: When Melissa and Christopher first got engaged, it was just the two of them in that moment. It was only fitting they shared a moment privately with a first look before their ceremony.

Unity Tree: During the ceremony, Melissa and Christopher planted an olive tree before they exchanged vows. They collected dirt from their childhood homes and poured them together into a pot. The olive plant, symbolizing peace, hope, and love (and also a nod to their dog), now resides in their living room and is a constant reminder of their wedding day.

Love at First Sight: WoodsEdge Farm was the first venue Melissa and Christopher visited, and after looking at several other locations, nothing compared. They always loved the idea of having their wedding in a barn, but once they met the owners, Amy and Brent, and saw the llamas surrounding the barn, they knew they had found their dream locale. The couple wed outdoors amongst nature under an oak tree with Melissa’s older brother officiating.

A Blank Canvas: The couple was inspired by the structure of WoodsEdge Farm, as well as the strung lights and beautiful wood farm tables. The semi-blank canvas allowed them to choose décor that fit their vintage, intimate, and rustic aesthetic. The reception featured greenery and candlelight over delicate lace and sheer table runners, along with eclectic adornments of vintage photo frames, repurposed windows, and lanterns.

On the Menu: Passed hors d’oeuvres and a mac and cheese station were available for guests to snack on during cocktail hour. Dinner began with a kale Caesar salad, followed by wild mushroom risotto, and braised short ribs, and roasted chicken for the main entrée. “Choosing the food for the wedding was our absolute favorite part of planning. We worked closely with the caterer to design a menu of the foods we loved executed in a way that would impress our guests,” the couple raved.

A Thoughtful Thank-You: Guests were gifted hunter green blankets to use throughout the ceremony and reception. Those staying at the hotel were also welcomed with a gift bag filled with snacks and essential party recovery supplies.

Ceremony & Reception Location: WoodsEdge Farm Caterer: Harvest Catering Officiant: Matthew Craig Photographer: Monika de Myer Ceremony & Cocktail Hour Entertainment: Gina Corso Entertainment: Paul Anthony Entertainment Photo Booth: Oh Snap That Floral Designer: Dahlia Florals Wedding Gown Designer: Maggie Sottero Shoes: Badgley Mischka Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse Invitations: Minted Hair Stylist: Alicia Garavaglia Makeup Artist: Michelle Elise Artistry and Allison C Beauty Honeymoon Location: Excellence Playa Mujeres, Mexico

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