Jennifer and William at Nanina’s in

Jennifer made the first move when she swiped right on William’s profile. The two got to know one another for a week before meeting in person at Midland Brew House. Although Jennifer was super nervous, they hit it off and turned out to be the perfect match. The day William proposed, Jennifer thought they were going sailing on the Hudson River for a planned birthday present from his parents. Little did she know, William would ask for her hand in marriage and have both families waiting at Battello in Jersey City to celebrate.

At first, Jennifer was against a first look, but ultimately decided on having one mainly for timing purposes. Not only did they end up getting most of their photos done and out of the way, but seeing each other before the service helped ease pre-ceremony jitters.

WORTH THE WAIT

After three postponements, Jennifer and William chose the first available summer date in 2021. Even though it was a Monday soiree, the couple raved it was still the best day ever and worth the wait. Nanina’s In The Park–initially chosen for its timeless style with ballroom–didn’t disappoint. The staff was professional and went above and beyond to make sure all their needs were met.

THE FIRST LOOK

FIND YOUR SEAT

Instead of traditional escort cards, Jennifer and William decided on a modern seating chart lettered by Lace and Belle. Guest names were listed alphabetically and created a statement during cocktail hour.

BOUQUET BREAKDOWN

The bride’s bouquet consisted of playa blanca roses, quicksand roses, off-white spray roses, white ranunculus, and white lisianthus with a touch of eucalyptus. The stems were wrapped in ivory ribbon with a sapphire pin attached, gifted to Jennifer by her brother, which served as her “something blue.”

BISCUIT BAR

Jennifer and William incorporated their furbaby, Diamond, into their wedding day by setting up a biscuit bar. Dog treats were placed in paw print cellophane bags for guests to take home and share with their four-legged family members. A framed sign–designed by Lace and Belle–included a cute poem that read, “We love our dog as we’re sure you know, so please take a doggie bag for yours to go!”

TABLE FOR TWO

During the reception, the newlyweds sat at a sweetheart table decorated in a garland made of hydrangeas, roses, lisianthus, and various greens. A matching garland draped the mantel behind them, while candles completed the romantic look.

FAVORITE WEDDING MEMORY

“Finally being able to celebrate with family and friends meant everything after all the stress of [planning through] Covid-19.”

WEDDING VENDORS

Ceremony Location: Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart • Celebrant: Deacon Tom Debenedictis Reception Location: Nanina’s In The Park • Photographer: Keri Calabrese Photography • Cinematographer: Yours Truly Media Entertainment: Magic Moment Production • Photo Booth: The GoldBooth • Floral Designer: Crest Florist Cake Designer: Palermo’s Bakery • Wedding Gown Designer: Pronovias • Veil: Toni Federici • Headpiece: Bella-Tiara LLC Shoes: Badgley Mischka • Formal Attire: Biltmore Tuxedos • Bridesmaid Dresses: Hayley Paige Invitations: Lace and Belle • Favors: Mason Cellar • Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist: Michelle Elise Artistry Jeweler: Corbo Jewelers • Honeymoon Location: Turks and Caicos

Unexpected Materials: A stationery suite by Lace and Belle introduced the vintage wedding style. Modern calligraphy was engraved in natural wood, while the details card showcased a sketch of the venue. Natural wood was also used to create a wood seating chart, which hung from a vintage ladder.

Accentuate the Setting: Vintage charm was brought in through various décor pieces, such as luggage, a washboard, and ladders, all of which are heirloom pieces from the planner’s grandmother’s basement. Cedar and Sage also brought in vintage furniture to create a cozy lounge space accented with lush florals and gold pillar candles.