Carey & Christian at Bear Brook Valley

Carey and Christian met while attending The College of New Jersey for their undergraduate degree. The two had mutual friends and were active in the same Christian organization on campus, but it wasn’t until Christian’s senior year that they started to hang out. The couple went on a sunrise hike at High Mountain in North Haledon, New Jersey. When they got to the top of the summit, they sat on one of the rock outcrops overlooking NYC with the sun rising behind the infamous skyrises. It was there–at the same place where his parents got engaged 30 years prior– that Christian asked Carey to stand up, and then got down on one knee to propose.

Tucked in Nature: Nestled in a gated residential community, Bear Brook Valley boasts greenery, a vineyard, and a modern farmhouse. The second Carey and Christian walked in, they were warmly welcomed, and they loved that they were able to customize their wedding exactly how they envisioned. “Having our wedding in 2020 as well came with its unique challenges, and the fact they were able to have an open-air reception sealed the deal for us,” the duo raved.

Carey & Christian

BEAR BROOK VALLEY FREDON, NJ 11.07.2020

Photography by Monika De Myer

Nothing Fancy, Just Love: With unseasonably warm weather for an early November wedding, Carey and Christian wed–less than three months from when they got engaged–overlooking Bear Brook Valley’s pond. The ceremony was officiated by Daniel Balevski, the groom’s older brother. “Dan has seen our relationship grow and progress. We both agreed it would be so special for him to be the one to marry us. We were right. He did such a great job,” the couple reminisced.

The Best of Both Worlds: Carey expressed that saying yes to the dress was the easiest and most fun part of wedding planning. She was particularly drawn to Jenny Yoo for her modern styles and fell in love with a dress she had seen online. The gown featured a V-neck bodice with delicate straps, a fitted silhouette, and a low back that tied in a bow. Carey even added an

elegant tulle skirt overlay for the ceremony and then took it off to reveal a second look for the reception. She accessorized with a simple pearl necklace, statement earrings (borrowed from her sister), and pink BHLDN shoes.

Groom’s Attire: Christian sported a nontraditional charcoal and black herringbone jacket from J.Crew with black pants, white shirt, black tie, and tie bar. A fall-hued boutonnière wrapped in black satin complemented his wedding day look.

Table for Two: The newlyweds dined at a sweetheart table dressed to the nines. A garland accented with roses and pillar candles framed the table, while a greenery wall made a lovely backdrop.

Simplistic Style on Budget: Carey was inspired by simplicity and really wanted the venue to shine. Set on the farmhouse-style tables were greenery garlands mixed with pillar candles in hurricane vases and tealights for a warm glow. Table numbers were displayed in gold frames.

Ceremony & Reception Location: Immaculate Conception Church Officiant: Daniel Balevski

Photographer: Monika de Myer Photography Entertainment: DJ Nic Dolce

Floral Designer: Viburnum Designs Limousine Service: Sparta Limousine Cake Designer: Palermo’s Bakery Wedding Gown Designer and Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Yoo Headpiece & Shoes: BHLDN Menswear: J.Crew and The Black Tux

Invitations: Minted

Favors: Photo Booth

Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist: Alisha Nycole Honeymoon Location: The Cliff House, Maine