THE WEDDING OF MARYA & GREG

September 3, 2017 Newport, Rhode Island

By Noelle Barbosa

When it came to their wedding venue, New York City couple Marya and Greg envisioned a coastal locale that was also a midway point for her Greater Boston family and his Baltimore relatives. With its seaside setting and picturesque backdrop, Castle Hill Inn in Newport, Rhode Island, was just right for their Labor Day weekend union.

“We wanted the weekend to feel thoughtful, but also impromptu. We wanted to make it as guest-focused as possible,” says Marya. The couple hosted a Friday dinner for the bridal party at the International Tennis Hall of Fame and a Saturday sail and dinner for all guests.

Marya worked with renowned bridal designer Pnina Tornai to create a one-of-a-kind showpiece that combined elements from three different gowns. Taking a more casual approach with her shoes, the bride laced up custom Nike Dunk Sky Hi sneakers for her walk down the aisle. “I wanted something comfortable that also gave me some height,” says the bride. “It was just fun.” The groom also opted for a laidback footwear style by donning navy Converse sneakers.

During the ceremony, Marya and Greg exchanged vows they had written themselves, and for a personal touch, guests stood up and replied, “We believe in your love.” An elegant reception brimming with vivid florals, wood furniture and cobalt accents rounded out the evening. “I wanted it to feel like an elegant picnic,” says Marya.