Newport Wedding magazine 2021

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Love 2021

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flawless FOOD

2021

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Real-Life Weddings

How the Pandemic is Changing Everything

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Contents

16

34 52

JANA WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY

Features 8

Tips & Trends News of the wedding world.

9

JANA WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY

10

Shop Creative gifts for the bride and groom, and trinkets to add some bling at the altar.

12 Weddings in the Age of COVID Bars, buffets and dancing are out; here’s how the pandemic is changing the way we wed.

16 Food for Thought Things to consider when choosing a caterer.

20 Sustainable Chic Whether you opt for a wedding gown or a jumpsuit, versatility is a virtue.

26 Good Groom-ing What stylish grooms are wearing (with their bride’s permission).

30 Dress for Success Picking a bridesmaid dress they’ll actually wear again.

54 Best of Newport Wedding Awards Your picks for the region’s best wedding professionals.

58 Picture Perfect Beautiful backgrounds for your wedding or engagement photos.

60 Flower Power For fabulous florals, think outside the vase.

61 Finishing Touches It’s the decorative flourishes that make a wedding distinctive.

62 Newport Wedding Show A preview of our 2021 event.

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MOVE MOUNTAINS CO.

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Real Weddings 34 Sarah Holfelder & John Toracinta Fort Adams

54 JWESSEL PHOTOGRAPHY

36 Jaimie Orrico & Bryan Farris Eisenhower House

38 Priscilla Argueta & Eli Keimach Atlantic Resort at Wyndham Newport Hotel

40 Kate Lozinski & Matt Brennan Newport Beach House

42 Carolyn Vazza & Sankarsh Iyengar Castle Hill Inn and Newport Marriott

44 Lindsay Deutschmann & Kyle O’Leary Rosecliff

46 Rachel Baker & Mike Osborne Glen Manor House

48 Natalie Doyle & Nicole Fiore Belle Mer

50 Kristen Weigel & Mike Booth Private Home

52 Lauren Eisenberg & Jordan Cherson Castle Hill Inn

ON THE COVER Mike Booth and Kristen Weigel share a moment by the shore. Photo by Lefebvre Photography.

See the wedding on page 50.

20 ALICIA ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY

Celebrating through your wedding weekend.

Located

Dockside at The Newport Rehearsal Dinners Welcome Cocktails Private After-Parties Farewell Brunch Guest Accommodations

THE NEWPORT HARBOR HOTEL AND MARINA

49 AMERICAS CUP AVENUE NEWPORT, RI

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FROM THE

Editor

N

Some Things Never Change

ewport and weddings will forever be linked in the public’s imagination, as inseparable as Sears and Roebuck or Abercrombie and Fitch. And yet, like those corporate titans, Newport has had to adapt to the times. The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way people get married — at least for the foreseeable future. Ceremonies won’t look the same, and receptions will have to shed some of the rituals of the past. But the motivation behind it all remains the same: to celebrate a couple’s love.

And what better place to do that than Newport? Here in our City by the Sea, ocean waves caress the shore at every turn, offering a blissful backdrop to the spectacle of Gilded Age mansions and narrow streets lined with houses dating back to the Founding Fathers. This history is compounded by a legacy of storybook weddings — from John and Jackie Kennedy to Jennifer Lawrence and Cooke Maloney — that has sealed the city’s romantic allure for all time.

Newport’s proximity to major metropolitan areas makes it a convenient choice for a destination wedding, allowing guests to get away from it all without going far, and with a vast assortment of dining options and diversions to keep everyone entertained. And let’s not forget the flock of wedding purveyors, from venues and caterers to florists and photographers, who stand ready to ensure that your Big Day is as memorable as the setting.

It takes a lot of work to plan a wedding. We hope this copy of Newport Wedding makes that job just a little bit easier, with articles and photographs that inform and inspire you, and resources that help make the outcome as spectacular as the vision in your head.

Sure, things are going to be a little different going forward.

The size of your party may change, the seating may be different, and dancing feet might not polish the parquet as they did in the past. In the end, those elements don’t alter the essence of what a wedding is about: the joining of two souls in holy wedlock.

That’s a bond no virus can break.

Fred Albert, Editor Would you like to see your Newport wedding featured on these pages?

Write me at falbert@newportri.com

Connect with us!

K ATIE K ARLB ERG PHOTOGRAPHY SEE REAL WED D ING PAGE 4 0

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EDITORIAL

Editor Fred Albert falbert@newportri.com Fashion & Beauty Editor Rebecca Chace Graphic Designer Veronica Musch vmusch@newportri.com Contributors Paula M. Bodah, Leigh Harrington, Larry Lindner, Lisa G. McCurdy, Andrea E. McHugh, Sharon Morgera Thank you to the amazing photographers who make this issue shine:

Tiffany Axtmann Photography Katie Karlberg Photography Lefebvre Photography Allison Markova Photography Move Mountains Co. Melissa Robotti Photography Joanna Sue Photography Brianna Wilbur Photography Jana Williams Photography ADVERTISING

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Newport wedding s featured in every iss ue!

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For editorial and advertising guidelines, and to order bulk quantities, visit NewportWeddingMagazine.com, NewportLifeMagazine.com or NewportWeddingShow.com 401-380-2313 • falbert@newportri.com Newport Wedding magazine (ISSN 1074-2190) Publication Number 0011804 is published each October by the staff of Newport Life magazine and Gannett Co., 272 Valley Road, Middletown, Rhode Island, 02842, (401) 849-3300, Periodical postage paid at Newport RI and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Providence Journal, 75 Fountain Street, Suite 200, Providence, RI 02902

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401-256-1836 w w w. A m a n o p i z z a n p t. c o m for events and other inquiries p l e a s e e m a i l u s at a m a n o p i z z a n p t@ g m a i l . c o m

Tips & Trends

GO GREEN When it comes to wedding florals, a lot of couples are skipping the flowers and going with greenery instead. But just as there’s an art to arranging flowers, it takes skill to make greens look good. “I like to use different colors and textures,” says Susan Falso of Cherryhill Flowers in Johnston, who recommends using at least three different greens in any arrangement, and incorporating berries and plants like dusty miller for contrast.

The results can be lush and luxurious.

But don’t expect to save a lot of money: greens are just as costly as flowers. —FA

LEF EB VRE PHOTOGRAPHY. SEE REAL WED D ING PAGE 5 0

HOW TO HOST A

Backyard Wedding

A CHERRYHILL F LOWERS. MAAIK E B ERNSTROM

THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT Binders are so 20th century.

Now you can keep track of all your wedding plans digitally with the myplannr app. Developed by Newport event planner Erica Trombetti of Infinite Events, the app works on iOS devices and is available free at the App Store; visit myplannr.com to learn more.

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NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM | 2021

lot of couples are scaling back their weddings in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, replacing gala affairs with backyard weddings. But a garden wedding brings its own set of challenges — and costs.

“Always have a rain plan,” says Stephanie Noel of Exquisite Events Planning in Newport. Unless you can fit all your guests inside the house for the ceremony and reception, have a tent ready in case of rain (or intense sun). At the very least, ask a tent rental company for a quote on a contingency plan, which lets you delay a decision until the week of the wedding.

Hire a licensed caterer, which will give you more leeway in group size and allow you to adhere to COVID-imposed regulations regarding food and beverage service (see page 12).

Provide amplification for the officiant and couple. You can rent wireless mics and speakers, or buy them online for a few hundred dollars.

Rent a portable restroom, which comes on a trailer and is much nicer than

a Porta Potty (or having guests traipse through your home). Hire an attendant to keep bathrooms disinfected.

If street parking is limited, ask neighbors if you may use their driveways, and hire a parking attendant or valet to oversee things. Or approach a nearby business about using its lot, and provide a shuttle van. “Ladies in heels don’t like to walk far,” notes Noel.

Make sure there’s sufficient yard and street lighting to prevent accidents. And check with your insurance agent to see if you need to add a rider to your policy to cover the wedding.

Lastly, don’t assume that a backyard wedding is going to save you money, cautions Pamela D’Orsi of PDR Events in Jamestown. When you book a commercial venue, you know exactly what the price will be. But a home wedding has more hidden costs, because you’re creating a wedding venue from scratch.

The results can be joyful and intimate.

But like marriage itself, a backyard wedding should be approached with eyes wide open. — FRED ALBERT

Shop

Modern white wine glass 14.25 oz, $16, Primavera Newport

Mariposa “Remember This Day” frame, $69, Newport Mansions Store

Gifts

Cocktail Shaker with recipes, $30, Museum of Newport History Shop

For The Newlyweds

By Rebecca Chace

Seafood Lovers Gift Set, $89, Wald & Sea

Narragansett Bay 3-D wood nautical chart, $298, Scrimshanders

Rhode Island bamboo cutting and serving board, $20, Essentials Rustin Marlin customizable cornhole game, $300, Ben’s Furniture “My Flavorite Things” Deluxe Crate gift set, $80, The Spice & Tea Exchange of Newport

Leigh duffel, $350, LEIGHxAZZUL Newport map blanket, $40, Blink Gallery

Shop

Bling Wedding Day

By Rebecca Chace

14 yellow gold ladder bracelet with champagne uartz, $1,895, an ea e el Custom handmade wedding cap, $125 and up, e al ne

14 gold stacked ring with mar uise and round diamonds, $3,600, e latin se

and-beaded clutch, $225, as n

Navitimer utomatic 41 Breitling stainless steel watch, $4,560, al an s a es

intage platinum and diamond earrings with a uamarine dangles, $ ,500, ell e ele s

Bridal sash adorned with crystals, beading and hand embroidery, $100, as n latinum and diamond Cascade necklace, $86,000, el el e a l

hair comb can be worn after the Big Day, too

Camden 18 gold nish hair comb, $248, Loren Hope

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NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM | 2021

Ivory Castle ill Light cu inks, $185, s an e s

Thorsten wedding band with mahogany inlay, prices start at $290, en n s e

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planning

Weddings in the AGE OF COVID

Bars, buffets and dancing are out.

But weddings can still proceed if you follow some precautions.

By Paula M. Bodah

PETER SILVIA PHOTOGRAPHY

I

f things had gone as planned, Mackenzie Robb and Ryan Stanley would have gotten married in August 2020 at the Chanler at Cliff Walk. With the ocean as a backdrop, the couple would have said “I do” in front of 220 happy guests.

COVID-19 has kept pretty much everything from going according to plan, however, and like so many other couples, Robb and Stanley had to rethink their nuptials. As it turns out, the two became husband and wife on schedule after all, but the oceanfront hotel was swapped out for a summer house on New York’s Lake George. And instead of friends and family from far and wide, the party maxed out at 11 people, including the bride and groom.

“At the time, it felt like such a disappointing decision to make,” the new Mrs. Stanley says. “But with all that’s going on now, it’s such a relief. We wanted to go ahead and take this next step in our relationship.”

The virus has stopped all manner of c e l e b r a t i o n s , f r o m b i r t h d ay s t o graduations to retirement parties. But the idea of not being able to gather longtime friends and extended family to witness a couple’s pledge of love seems especially poignant. Still, people will fall in love and want to get married, pandemic or not.

Love may not actually conquer all, but it can rise above social distance rules, mask mandates and limits on crowd size.

Katie McLoughlin, a wedding planner with the Newport firm Leila Ryan Events, says of the 26 weddings she had on the books for 2020, several have been canceled altogether and most have been postponed to 2021. Among her clients were the Stanleys, who now plan to throw the party they dreamed of (including a repeat of the ceremony) at the Chanler in July 2021.

Newly engaged couples hoping for a big Newport wedding complete with a cocktail hour and dancing should be prepared to wait, largely because so many people who originally planned to marry in 2020 have postponed to 2021, locking up a lot of the year’s weekends already.

According to Katie Wilkinson, resident co-manager of Portsmouth’s Glen Manor, “We’ve had more than 65 couples move to next year. Right now, for my

l eE

a en an e l e ns e l e s ea n e en l an enne a s n PENNY SOUZ A PHOTOGRAPHY

Love may not actually conquer all, but it can rise above social distance rules, mask mandates and limits on crowd size.

season — the end of April through the beginning of November — every Friday, Saturday and Sunday is booked for 2021.”

A little creative thinking can make a difference, though, Wilkinson says. How about a weeknight wedding with a smallbut-elegant sit-down dinner? Under the state of Rhode Island’s Phase III reopening regulations, an indoor venue can have up to 50 people if a licensed caterer is providing the food, or if, as in the case of a restaurant or hotel, the venue itself

provides the food. To check on the current regulations, go to health.ri.gov/covid.

Whatever venue you choose, be aware that it has to follow social distancing guidelines, meaning that there must be at least 8 feet between tables. That could further limit the number of guests you include. (Venue or catering staff doesn’t count in the 50-person limit.)

Outdoor weddings or those under a tent with open sides may accommodate up to 100 people. But in no case — even 2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

13

One area where restraint isn’t necessary: flowers. “We have found that because weddings are smaller, brides can expand their budgets a bit when it comes to the flowers,” says David Urban of the Secret Garden in Jamestown.

Of course, before the big party you need a ceremony, and that — like everything else these days — comes with its own set of rules. Churches are currently

your own backyard — can a wedding include a bar that guests can walk up to.

Also a thing of the past, at least for now, is the cocktail hour where guests can mingle.

Beverages must be served to people after they’ve been seated, by waitstaff.

When it comes to food, forget tasting stations, passed hors d’oeuvres, buffets or dessert tables. All food has to be delivered to each guest by waitstaff.

At present, dancing the night away is also no longer an option, although that doesn’t mean you have to skip the entertainment entirely. A small jazz or classical music trio, or a sound system playing a selection of standards, can keep the atmosphere festive. Current state regulations allow a couple to have a first dance, as well as the traditional mother/ son and father/daughter dance, as long as each twosome is alone on the dance floor.

A photographer or videographer is welcome, but they and wedding guests need to observe the 6-foot social distancing requirements. And state regulations say that everyone should wear masks unless they’re eating, drinking or being photographed. e ti e e n s alle

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B ROOK E B RAD Y PHOTOGRAPHY. F LOWERS B Y YOUNG D ESIGNS

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NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM | 2021

Ask any vendors how they will respond if the pandemic continues and the wedding has to be postponed or canceled. allowed to hold 66 percent of their capacity for services of any kind, including weddings. The Rev. Kris von Maluski, pastor at Newport’s iconic St. Mary’s Catholic Church, where Jacqueline Bouvier and John F. Kennedy tied the knot back in 1953, notes that although his e

en

church can seat as many as 700, social distancing requirements reduce that capacity to about 100 people. At St. Mark Church in Jamestown, the Rev. Douglas Grant tells engaged couples the church can accommodate 70 to 80 people, instead of the usual 500. Masks and social distancing will be part of the ceremony for the foreseeable future, both men say. “It’s a very different feel and look,” says von Maluski.

Grant says that he, the bride and groom, and the wedding party can remain maskless. “I would ordinarily walk right up to the couple, but I keep my distance so I don’t have to wear a mask,” he says.

The maid of honor and best man must observe the 6-foot rule too, he says, and guests are required to wear masks throughout the ceremony.

Churches follow the same sanitizing rules as any other public venue, both priests say. Following any service, including a wedding, pews and any touch points are thoroughly disinfected. The Rev. Andrew Simon of St. James Lutheran Church in Barrington says he has yet to hold an in-church wedding during the

Frequently Asked Questions Th e s e a r e Ph Wh i l e s o m e Ph a s e IV, i t ’ s covid f o r c u r

a s e III r e o f th e se b e st to c r e n t g u id

o p e r u le h e c e lin

n in g r e g u la t io n s . s m a y c h a n g e in k health.ri.gov/ e s.

How many guests can I have at my reception?

In d o o r s : 1 5 , o r 5 0 w i t h l i c e n s e d c a t e r i n g Ou t d o o r s : 1 5 , o r 1 0 0 w i t h l i c e n s e d c a t e r i n g ( If t h e p r o f e s s i o n a l v e n u e i s p r o v i d i n g t h e f o o d , i t c o u n t s a s l i c e n s e d c a t e r i n g .)

Is the staff included in the number of attendees?

St a f f ( e .g . e v e n t p l a n n e r s a n d s e r v e r s ) a r e e x c lu d e d f r o m t h e e v e n t s iz e lim it s .

Are masks required?

Ma s k s s h o u l d b e w o r n a t a l l t i m e s , e x c e p t w h e n e a t in g , d r in k in g , o r b e in g p h o to g ra p h e d .

Guests must wear masks except when eatin n n en a e PETER SILVIA PHOTOGRAPHY

pandemic. “However,” he says, “I had five weddings scheduled over the summer with couples at venues throughout the state. Two of those couples opted to continue with their original date, but scaled the ceremony back to around 15 people or less. The remaining couples have rescheduled their weddings for 2021.”

Among those couples are Mackenzie and Ryan Stanley, who are pleased that Simon and all the vendors they enlisted for their wedding have agreed to make themselves available for the couple’s 2021 re-do. Wedding planner McLoughlin says she has found vendors to be flexible and accommodating, and she advises couples to ask any vendors how they will respond if the pandemic continues and the wedding has to be postponed or canceled.

The pre-wedding makeup and hair session has become a standard part of the festivities, but Allison Barbera, of Allison Barbera Beauty, says that’s one more thing that — at least for the time being — has changed. “We used to make up everyone in the same room,” she says. “Now we can’t do that.” She and her staff set up in a different room; the members of the wedding party come in one by one and makeup artists and stylists wear safety goggles and masks.

Until this pandemic is over, the pullout-all-the-stops wedding is being replaced

by a quieter, more intimate experience that many couples are embracing. “We secretly wanted to elope in the first place,” confesses Annie Patterson of Pawtucket.

She and her new husband, Danny Ike, planned to marry at Boston’s Arnold Arboretum with lots of family and friends as witnesses. They weren’t willing to let COVID-19 interfere with their plan to spend their lives together, so eloping to Newport was Plan B. Ike’s mother, a Newport resident, enlisted former Newport mayor Steve Waluk to act as officiant. “We actually went on the grounds of a really nice hotel that was closed and had the ceremony on their lawn,” Patterson says. The group of six — bride and groom, officiant, mother of the groom, and two friends who acted as witnesses — went to Stoneacre Brasserie for dinner, then the new couple spent the weekend at the Inn at Castle Hill.

“Everyone wants the experience of being a bride and professing your love in front of everyone,” Patterson says. “But at the end of the day it was harmonious and peaceful and romantic and all the things a wedding should be.”

If COVID-19 has an upside where love is concerned, it may be that couples are acknowledging that marriage, not the wedding, is actually the point.

Can I have a receiving line?

Re c e i v i n g l i n e s a n d o t h e r t r a d i t i o n s t h a t in v o lv e c o n g r e g a t in g o f g u e s t s s h o u ld b e a v o id e d .

Is dancing allowed?

D a n c in g is n o t p e r m it t e w e d d in g c o u p le ’s f ir s t d s o n o r fa th e r/ d a u g h te r t h o s e c a s e s , o n ly t h e c o p e r m it t e d o n t h e d a n c e r e m a in s e a t e d .

d , e x a n c e “ p e r u p le f lo o

c e p t fo r th e , o r a m o th e r/ f o r m a n c e .” In d a n c in g is r ; a ll o t h e r s m u s t

Is a cocktail hour or walk-up bar permitted?

Wa l k - u p b a r s e r v i c e i s n o t a l l o w e d u n d e r a n y c ir c u m s t a n c e s .D r in k s m u s t b e d e liv e r e d b y w a it s t a ff t o g u e s t s s e a t e d a t t h e ir a s s ig n e d t a b l e s . Yo u c a n a l s o p l a c e b u c k e t s o f c a n n e d o r b o t t le d s o d a , b e e r o r w a t e r o n e a c h t a b le , o r w in e o r c o c k t a ils in lid d e d c o n t a in e r s , a s lo n g a s t h e y ’r e n o t s h a r e d w it h o t h e r t a b le s .

Are passed hors d’oeuvres, or hors d’oeuvre or dessert tables permitted?

No . Al l f o o d ( i n c l u d i n g w e d d i n g c a k e ) m u s t b e s e r v e d t o s e a t e d g u e s t s b y t h e w a it s t a ff.

What are the rules regarding table seating?

No m o r e t h a n e i g h t g u e s t s a r e a l l o w e d a t a s in g le t a b le ; g u e s t s s h o u ld b e s e a t e d b y h o u s e h o ld w h e n e v e r p r a c t ic a b le .

Can I have a buffet-style dinner if the event staff serves the food from the buffet?

Gu e s t s m a y n o t s e r v e t h e m s e l v e s u n l e s s t h e fo o d is p r e p a c k a g e d , w r a p p e d , o r in s o m e w a y p r o t e c t e d . Ot h e r w i s e , a l l f o o d m u s t b e d e liv e r e d b y w a it s t a ff t o g u e s t s s e a t e d a t t h e ir a s s ig n e d t a b le s .F a m ily - s t y le d in in g ( e .g . b r e a d b a s k e t s , s h a r e d s a l a d s , e t c .) i s n o t a llo w e d u n le s s t h e t a b le m e m b e r s a r e a ll f r o m t h e s a m e h o u s e h o ld o r t h e fo o d it e m s a r e in d iv id u a lly w r a p p e d .

2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

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food

Some venues do their own catering, like Castle Hill Inn, which prepared these hors d’oeuvres.

PHOTOGRAPH B Y JANA WILLIAMS. SEE REAL WED D ING PAGE 5 2

Food for Thought There are lots of factors to consider when choosing and working with a caterer.

By Andrea E. McHugh

After your closest family and friends gather to witness your “I do’s,” there’s probably one thing on their minds besides your glorious union: food. It’s often said there’s no more important vendor on your wedding day than your caterer — and none that will arouse more discussion. So choose wisely.

Where to Start

In all likelihood, booking your church and/or venue will be your first step toward matrimony. In and around Newport, you’ll find a variety of venues: some with catering included, and others that require an outside caterer. Venues lacking in-house catering are often historic properties, such as Fort Adams, Glen Manor House and Eisenhower House. These sites will typically provide couples with a recommended list of caterers familiar with the venue. In other instances, your venue may have an exclusive list of caterers pre-approved to work onsite.

Rosecliff, the famed Gilded Age mansion completed in 1902, is home to Newport’s largest private ballroom. Couples celebrating their nuptials at this Preservation Society of Newport County property are required to select from the “Newport Mansions Caterers of Choice” list, which includes four highly qualified caterers with experience servicing the organization’s turn-of-the-century venues.

“We are not a function hall; we are a museum that does events after touring hours, which presents a challenge,” says the Newport Mansions’ Director of Special Events, Philip Pelletier. The preselected caterers, he explains, have a comprehensive knowledge of 16

NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM | 2021

Rosecliff, from which doors and ramps to utilize for loading gear, to floor plans that work best in the space.

When Glen Manor was built in 1923 on the banks of the Sakonnet River in Portsmouth, world-famous architect John Russell Pope could hardly imagine the French chateau-style home (inspired by the Petit Trianon at Versailles) would become one of the area’s most sought-after wedding venues. “Being familiar with the house is very important,” says resident manager Katie Wilkinson, who oversees events with her husband, Don. The caterers also act as the wedding’s point person, managing the event’s staffing needs and directing the wedding’s flow from “I do” through dessert, including first dances, toasts, cake cutting and more.

Gathering Names

Couples not bound to an exclusive catering arrangement with their venue often find caterers through wedding websites, the Newport Wedding Show, and Newport Wedding and Newport Life magazines. Lynell Lovejoy, VP of Venues at Russell Morin Catering & Events, says couples should make sure the caterers they interview have experience at their specific venue, not only for a working knowledge of the premises, but for important logistical details like staffing needs or if a mobile kitchen is needed and what arrangements that entails.

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TIF F ANY AX TMANN PHOTOGRAPHY RUSSELL MORIN CATERING & EVENTS SEE REAL WED D ING PAGE 3 6

Get Your Ducks in a Row

With Newport’s active social calendar, area caterers can be booked a year — or more — in advance. Before you reach out to one, you should have a few ducks in a row.

First, your date and venue should be confirmed so the caterers can check their availability. Next, they’ll want to know approximately how many guests you’ll be expecting. If you haven’t done so already, draw up a list of invitees and try to determine how many of those you expect will attend. (If Aunt Alice hasn’t left Auckland in decades, chances are she won’t be there.) A good rule of thumb is to plan for around 15 percent of your invited guests to decline the invitation. Finally, have a budget in mind with a realistic range of what you can spend, as that will determine what the caterer can offer. the subterranean bake to watch the cover peeled back, unleashing a billowing cloud of steam as wire baskets At Your Service full of lobsters, corn, potatoes and clams are revealed.

Costs are determined by the total number of guests, the “We can also do a lobster boil with the same components menu and the type of service, which can range from a but without the show, and can accommodate a plated seated multicourse dinner to an elaborate buffet, food dinner, buffet or stations,” says Senior Catering Manager stations or a cocktail event with heavy hors d’oeuvres. Alexis Radkovich.

Key factors in determining your choice will be budget and venue. Seated dinners are the norm at formal events More Than Just a Meal and will be more expensive than other options, but a Many of today’s full-service caterers also act as de facto seasoned caterer will look for solutions when there are event planners, and can secure everything from tent and challenges. For example, if your heart is set on a seated table rentals to china, tableware, linens, decor — even dinner and your wallet is not, a family-style seated the dance floor. “We offer our signature green-anddinner — where appetizers, entrees and sides are served white striped tent, which adds a little something on large platters passed around the table — usually offers different and stands out more than just a standard a more affordable option. white wedding tent,” says Radkovich. The company can If you think you can save even more with a buffet, also provide ceremony and cocktail seating, bar service, think again. “There’s typically more food brought if and everything for dining. “We try to do an inclusive there’s a buffet meal, so everyone can have a bit of package: linens, plates, flatware, glassware — everything everything. But there’s a few less service staff, since you need,” she says. they’re not serving each meal to each guest, like a plated When comparing catering proposals and weighing dinner,” says Lovejoy. “These two styles of service are them against your budget, Lovejoy says it’s important actually quite comparable, contrary to the assumption to look at the whole picture and compare apples to that a buffet is always less expensive.” apples. “There are so many factors that go into what the Another option is a clambake. McGrath Clambakes price looks like,” she explains, including if a company in Newport showcases the traditional cooking process owns items or needs to outsource. Another factor that passed down from New England colonists, with the big will impact cost is the number of staff needed. Lovejoy moment unfolding when wedding guests gather ’round recommends trusting the expertise of your caterer

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Comfort foods will always be a crowd pleaser, but today’s catering chefs are offering favorites in new, bold and bite-size ways.

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when it comes to staff-to-guest ratios. “That has a lot to do with the style of service you’re doing and the venue. We want to make sure our staff number is appropriate to run that event.”

Caterers are also invaluable resources when it comes to recommending other vendors to execute your vision. So before searching for an event lighting company, or performers like living statues or a strolling champagne table, check with your caterer, who has an entire network at their fingertips.

ment should the couple move forward with the booking. “Ultimately, there is no charge for contracted events,” she explains.

What to Expect

Once you’ve selected a caterer, you will be asked to sign an agreement and provide a deposit to secure the date. Be sure to keep your copy with any other wedding-related contracts. If there’s anything the COVID-19 p a n d e m i c h a s t a u g h t u s , i t ’s t h a t circumstances beyond anyone’s control can cause a wedding or event to be cancelled or Making Your Selection rescheduled. The “force majeure” or “act of Af ter narrowing down your catering God” clause in a contract removes or alters contenders, request a proposal for your liability for natural and unavoidable wedding. It’s important to be transparent catastrophes. about your budget, clear about your vision, Some caterers prefer that entrée and willing to compromise if your budget and selections be included with your guests’ vision do not align. After collecting the RSVPs, so they can prepare in advance. Be proposals, follow up with an in-person or sure to ask if this is required, so you can plan phone interview to review specifics and your response cards accordingly.

As responses start to flood your mailbox, keep track of your It’s important to be transparent total guest tally, as your caterer about your budget, clear about your will ask you for that final vision, and willing to compromise if number about two weeks your budget and vision do not align. before the big day. If you haven’t been on a payment plan, this is usually when the full balance of your contract is due (or by the wedding — but address any questions.

A tasting to sample your caterer’s offer- it’s best to have this settled in advance).

This is also the time your caterer will ings and craft your menu is typically scheduled after you book the caterer — but not always. request a list of any meals that need to be Elizabeth O’Keefe, marketing and design man- specially prepared to accommodate guests ager at The Catered Affair, says the company with dietary restrictions or preferences, can accommodate tastings prior to booking for including food allergies and vegan, vegetarian a fee, which is applied as an event deposit/pay- or religious diets.

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Lobster is a New England classic, but lobster mac ‘n’ cheese, often served in miniature containers, blends the best of the region with an all-American staple to make for a mouth-watering hors d’oeuvre.

Staying local, mini-mugs of creamy clam chowder served with a clam cake will give your guests two tastes of Rhode Island in one fell swoop. Chicken and waffles has become a comfort food favorite with a scaled-down version that features crispy fried chicken served on a mini-waffle and drizzled with maple syrup. Lynell Lovejoy at Russell Morin Catering & Events says their Big Mac Beef Wellingtons are always a hit, as are their watermelon radish tacos and their mini fish and chips — served in a newspaper cone!

Station Inspiration Stations are a great way to give

guests a customized or interactive experience. In addition to cheese and charcuterie displays, The Catered Affair suggests a noodleand-dumpling station, as it allows guests to build their own stir-fries.

(Tip: Provide ingredients to please vegetarians and carnivores alike.)

Want to give your wedding an international flair? Consider an elaborate sushi spread, a tapas bar, or a selection of focaccia and antipasto.

Let 'Em Eat Cake

While the wedding cake will usually take center stage, today’s couples can be exceptionally creative when it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth. Donut walls are sure to make an impression with their campy “help yourself” vibe, while a pie table embodies a rustic chic theme (be sure to have a variety of flavors).

Meanwhile, a display of colorful macarons will add Parisian panache. And for the ultimate goodnight treat, have cookies and milk passed hors d’oeuvre–style.

Who can resist?

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Wow your guests with an open back as you walk down the aisle.

LOVE, LUCAS PHOTOGRAPHY

Sustainable Chic Today’s brides are choosing gowns and accessories that can be worn later — or by future generations.

By Rebecca Chace

LET’S FACE IT,

wedding gowns are expensive. Heck, weddings are expensive. So how do you stretch your wedding dress budget without sacrificing style?

Brides are shifting their views on wedding day looks. A dress that can only be worn once is becoming a thing of the past, as brides put more emphasis on finding pieces that can be worn again — protecting both their investment and the environment.

Nowadays, dressing for the venue is far less important than dressing for yourself. Brides are aiming to add individuality to their wedding day look by mixing extravagance with simplicity and incorporating personal touches and customized pieces that will become a great addition to their everyday wardrobe.

Amanda Delahunt, owner of Lady Sycamore Bridal in Wickford, has noticed an overall move toward a more mindful consumption when bridal shopping. “Sustainability in fashion is a movement, not a trend. We’re witnessing brides choosing designs that are more easily incorporated into their existing wardrobe, [that they] will be able to wear beyond the Big Day,” Delahunt says.

In recent years, wedding dress styles have become all about the shape. Emphasis has shifted from 20

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the detailing to the silhouette, allowing the dress to transition to formal occasions outside of a wedding chapel. That’s not to suggest that less fussy means less interesting. You can still pack plenty of wow factor into a high neckline paired with a deep open back or a high slit. For brides who aren’t into crystals or sequins, but crave a little extra shine in their gown, pearls are a subtle and elegant embellishment that can give a dress that bridal glow. “The key to finding your perfect wedding look is to not be too matchy-matchy,” says Delahunt.

Bringing some personality into the dress will help make it feel like your day.

Suits, coat dresses and separates are making a sustainable appearance this season. Brides can mix it up by choosing a piece that can be worn various ways, allowing for a seamless transition into your daily wardrobe. A suit jacket or coat dress can be worn with a pair of jeans. A tiered ruffled skirt can be styled with your favorite T-shirt. “Rather than having a tight, tailored suit, we’re seeing wide-leg trousers,” Delahunt says. “It’s more interesting than your typical tailored suit.” Suits, jumpsuits and other separates are not only sustainable, but also comfortable and flattering to the figure.

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Veils

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We can't talk about bridal fashion without mentioning veils. Delahunt has noticed an increase in custom veil orders at her shop. “Although longer veils are often more popular, length really depends on the style of dress the bride chooses,” she says.

In general, the shorter the dress, the shorter the veil. If you’re opting for a short or vintage-style dress, try a birdcage or short multilayer veil. A bride who has a simple dress and wants to add a bit of style without embellishments should consider a medium-length angel-cut veil. Those opting for a modern look might try a blusher veil, which is a short, layered and square-cut veil. A longer chapel veil is ideal for a beach or boho-style wedding, when you want to achieve that dreamy, windblown look with the veil floating behind you. If your gown is heavily beaded or embellished, or if it has a long train, a classic cathedral veil would be the most fitting choice. If your gown has a statement back, however, avoid a veil with multiple layers, crystals or other embellishments and opt for a sheer or lace veil instead, so the back of the dress can be seen.

But there’s more to a veil than just length. Brides are looking for a customized heirloom piece embellished with personalized embroidery like their wedding date, monogram or a secret message stitched into the tulle — something that can be passed down to succeeding generations.

Choosing a veil doesn’t stop there. “Instead of a white ivory or blush, a ‘ginger’ color is starting to trickle in,” Delahunt says. “It’s nontraditional, but people are going for colors.” Still not sold on a veil?

Capes are an elegant-yet-whimsical n e ell s e a e el a sa s a le a alternative for those looking for a n a e s le ess MIA CAMPOPIANO PHOTOGRAPHY different approach. a el e ls a e

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Hair Trends

Wedding hair trends, just like wedding fashions, come and go from year to year. It’s important to choose the best look for your face and style of dress. There is beauty in simplicity, and the trend this season is decidedly relaxed. “Predominantly a sleek look generally styled with a middle part,” explains wedding expert Julie Rose of Julie Rose Beauty. “Both the classic bun and cascading wave remain a go-to. There is something about a timeless look that will forever be on trend.” What is most important is that the bride is comfortable and confident in her look.

Wedding hair accessories are increasingly popular, perhaps because they are great for all different hair types, styles and lengths. With a wide variety to choose from, there is a hair accessory for every bride. To let your personality shine through the day, choose a bridal crown, headpiece or headband adorned with sparkles and pearls. “Headpieces and/or headbands tend to be a very personal choice for each bride,” says Rose. “If my bride loves sparkle, I am usually incorporating something very extravagant into the hairstyle. This can range from Swarovski crystal to a rhinestone bridal hair vine.”

At the end of the day, the hair and makeup should never compete with the wedding dress.

As with veils, brides are shifting their focus to more personalized accessories, with hopes that one day their stunning crown or headpiece will become a family heirloom that’s passed down through the family. “I have also had a number of brides create custom pieces using family heirlooms, which I believe is truly special,” Rose notes.

When shopping for hair accessories, remember that you don’t want to take attention away from your magnificent wedding dress — you want to amplify it. “A bride’s wedding dress and her bridal hair and makeup should always complement each other,” explains Rose.

She even recommends that a bride show pictures of her dress and wedding vision board to the hairstylist, to ensure a cohesive wedding day look. “At the end of the day,” Rose says, “the hair and makeup should never compete with the wedding dress.”

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Good Groom-ing

By Larry Lindner

What you wear to your wedding isn’t really about you, guys.

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nce the man at the formal-wear shop began putting together the colors Jessica Williams picked for her fiancé’s wedding attire, she started tearing up.

“He chose just the right tie color to match the matron of honor’s dress,” she marvels.

In other words, what you wear to your wedding isn’t really about you, guys. On some level, you’re just a bridal accessory. “Tuxedo or suit” goes into the same category as “string of pearls or heirloom pendant.” Your betrothed will be calling the shots — or at least having significant input.

Those who rent or sell tuxedos and suits readily acknowledge that that’s the way things are. “Many times the groom comes in by himself,” says Dan Harris, owner of Carl Anthony Tuxedo in Cranston. “I recommend that he brings the bride back. You always want to get her stamp of approval.”

Says Aldo Segama, owner of three Aldo’s House of Formals and the man who deftly pulled together

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Williams’ color preferences, “If I can see what the bride is wearing, it will give me a sense of whether I can get away with a suit or if the groom needs a tux. If you’re doing an evening wedding at Rosecliff mansion and there are candles everywhere, the bridesmaids’ dresses are all floor length and the bridal gown is all lace or with appliqué, a suit is not going to cut it.

“Not that we could never get away with a suit for a fancy affair,” Segama adds. “We could do a dark navy. It just comes down to how impactful the wedding gown is.”

One way or another, says Roger Gross of Franklin Rogers Ltd. in Providence, “today’s brides are very much involved.”

So what are local brides (with the help of their fiancés) choosing these days? “There are two different kinds of looks in Newport,” notes Harris. “One is the formal event: classic black tuxedo, black bow tie. And then there’s the other Newport look: suits, or khaki pants and a navy blazer.”

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But within those categories, a number of trends are emerging.

Blues are in. “Navy seems to be coming into play a lot,” says Segama. Even navy tuxedos have seen a surge of late, including for weddings that are not all-out formal. Many different shades of blue are popular for suits, he says, from French blue to dust blue to cobalt.

Jessica Williams and Segama chose a dust blue suit for her groom, Brandon Sweeney. While he is a ginger, his groomsmen all have dark hair and he felt the blue complemented everyone’s coloring. “It looked good on all of us,” he says.

Grays are popular now, too. Deep greens like hunter and spruce green seemed primed to make an appearance in groomswear, “but the pandemic has kind of stalled it,” notes Gross.

“It could start to trend in the next season or two,” adds Harris. Segama, too, has received inquiries about using the color, but he senses it’s too fashion-forward.

“It might be something cool to see in your photos for four to five years,” he says, “but when you hit the 10-year mark, you’re going to be like, ‘What the hell did I do?’

You wouldn’t necessarily feel that way about the blues.”

The silhouette’s the thing. All the clothiers note that form-fitting is in. “A lot of grooms want a skinny silhouette,” says Segama. Gross agrees. “The young guys want tightness,” he says. “They want the pants shorter, tapered down.” But the menswear stylists all say that if members of your wedding party are shaped more like manicotti than spaghetti, they can fit the bigger guys in the same style, but with more room so that no one stands out in the wrong way.

Long tie or bow tie? For an ultra-formal affair, you’re definitely looking at a tuxedo with a bow tie.

Suits and tuxedos for less-formal weddings often use regular ties, although bow ties are popular these days for tuxedos worn at more casual events, too. Many times the groom’s tie will be a bit different from the groomsmen’s. Brandon Sweeney’s tie, for instance, had a striped detail, while his groomsmen’s ties were solid.

Sometimes the groom wears a bow tie while the other men wear long ones.

It’s all in the details. Peak collars are where it’s at these days. Shawl collars are out of fashion — notch collars, too, to some degree. So are cummerbunds. “We haven’t ordered a cummerbund for a wedding for, like, three years,” says Gross.

But suspenders are very much in vogue. “One wedding, each groomsman wore different-color suspenders,” Gross says.

A colorful pocket square in a solid, polka dot or floral pattern adds flair as well, notes Segama. For both tuxes and suits, it’s a bolder choice than the traditional white pocket square.

If the shoe color fits … here are your choices: black or brown. Classic black is the color for a black tuxedo,

When it comes to a navy, khaki or green suit, brown shoes always go best. LAURA INK PHOTOGRAPHY

We haven’t ordered a cummerbund for a wedding for, like, three years.

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of course, and Segama says that these days, some grooms are sporting velvet loafers. Guys wearing blue or gray have the option of choosing a brown shoe, he says. A cognac color has become really popular with all the variations on blue and gray, Harris notes.

Socks carry the funk. It seems that hosiery is where grooms get to make their statement. Go crazy, guys. A lot of grooms choose superhero socks or those with the logo of their favorite sports team, or socks with funky colors. “One groom and his groomsmen were all in a football club together, so they wanted football socks,” Gross says.

In a small percentage of weddings, adds Harris, if the men go with a short pants leg and loafers with exposed ankles as part of that slim-fit look, they’ll go sockless. “But that’s more on New York runways,” he comments. “It hasn’t resonated fully.”

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How to pick a bridesmaid dress they’ll wear more than once.

By Leigh Harrington

When Heather Pierce’s childhood friend asked her to be a bridesmaid in her Newport wedding, she was ecstatic.

The Middletown resident remembers going to Alexandra’s Boutique in Fall River to pick out dresses with the wedding party, and absolutely loved the selection they made: a dark blue satin dress with a black petticoat underneath.

“I haven’t been a bridesmaid in a ton of weddings,” Pierce says. “This is one of my best friends from forever; I would have bought whatever she wanted me to buy.”

Pierce says she wasn’t concerned about whether she’d wear the dress again, but the choice was taken from her on the day of the wedding, when the zipper broke and she had to be sewn into the outfit.

“At the end of the night, we basically had to rip it to get it off me,” she says. “My dress was ruined — not that I would rewear it.”

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And that sums up the sentiments of many women who have been bridesmaids. Even if they love their dress, they’ll never wear it again.

Unless you’re in the prime of your wedding years, where all your friends are tying the knot, or you regularly find your way to Newport charity galas, it’s unlikely you’re in the market for formal attire.

So when you have to spend more than you wanted on a bridesmaid dress for your bestie’s big day, you may find yourself wishing you could get more than one wearing out of it. “Because girls are spending a lot of money on the dress, they want to wear it again,” says Lucia Aguiar, the owner of Lucia Aguiar Bride in East Greenwich. But most bridesmaid dresses, she points out, don’t have the stylish, modern look that young women are seeking.

To address the problem, we asked wedding professionals for guidance on choosing a bridesmaid dress that will look smashing at the wedding — and for years afterward.

Tips for choosing a

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It’s all about the fabric

When it comes to bridesmaid dresses, the most popular choice is chiffon, with its ethereal vibe and a draping ability that flatters just about any figure.

Unfor tunately, those same light and layered characteristics make it easily identifiable as a bridesmaid dress.

“On some level, you can always tell,” says Kayla Thompson, proprietor of Melissa Ashley Brides in Westerly. ne al l ans ti ns e eas l n e e a ea If you’re looking for a bridesmaid dress that can K ATE D AILEY PHOTOGRAPHY. D RESSES: SHOW ME YOUR MUMU be worn again, avoid shiny fabrics like chiffon or satin and opt for something more matte, like cotton or crepe.

Lucia Aguiar suggests checking out designer Jenny Yoo. “She’s one of the best right now,” she says. “She has a big variety of styles and fabrics, different When the bride-to-be in the 2008 film looks.”

If you’re planning a late fall or winter wedding, Thompson 27 Dresses told her bridesmaid, Jane, “The bridesmaid recommends a velvet dress. “They’re a little bit more expensive,” she says, dresses look great. You can shorten it and wear it again,” “but they’re great, because it’s not a traditional bridesmaid look. If you had women across America let out a collective groan. another formal affair to go to, like a fundraiser, it would be really easy to Tell that to the two-dozen-plus getups stuffed into Jane’s closet. wear that dress again.”

We feel your pain, Jane. Brides everywhere offer this superficial solace to their wedding parties to make it easier to swallow the high cost of a dress the Poppy, emerald, lavender — they’re all gorgeous, rich colors. But bridesmaids pay for but don’t get to pick out.

But according to Thompson and Aguiar, shortening outside of a wedding, bold colors are simply not your friends.

Instead, seek out a neutral shade like black, navy, nude or light pink. a dress is a viable option if you really like it. “Short also “Navy matches everybody,” Thompson says. “Nobody ever looks at someone gives it a less formal look,” Thompson says. “So if you go to somebody else’s wedding, you don’t look like you in navy and is like, ‘Oh, they shouldn’t have worn that color.’” wore a bridesmaid dress.”

Aguiar agrees. “You can always make more of a tealength dress,” she says. “You can re-cut them for Move over spaghetti-strap sheaths and sweetheart necklines — there different lengths later on. Small dresses are very popular are some new girls in town. Bridesmaid dress styles are branching out. to wear, especially in the summer.”

Not to state the obvious, but you can also prevent According to wedding website The Knot, some rising trends include twothe problem by choosing a shorter-length bridesmaid piece mix-and-match outfits, tiered midi dresses, bold patterns, long dress from the start, which avoids the additional cost sleeves, and even jumpsuits. of hemming it later.

Bridal designers from Vince Camuto to Dessy have embraced the jumpsuit, which can go casual or dressy and is modern and comfortable.

STUCK WITH A BRIDESMAID And what bridesmaid doesn’t want that? Besides, you can definitely wear DRESS YOU’LL NEVER WEAR? a jumpsuit again.

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Consider the length

Pick a neutral color

Select a less traditional look

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TRANSFORM IT!

For a casual look, give your bridesmaids a set of colors, prints and/or fabrics, and let them choose a style they love. LOVE, LUCAS PHOTOGRAPHY

So what are your options if your bride didn’t follow this advice, and you’re a bridesmaid saddled with a dress that isn’t your style?

Whether you’re talking hair or fabric, chopping something up can give you a real sense of empowerment, and can allow you to inject your personality into a style that, well, might not have been to your taste.

Find a seamstress who is used to working with bridal couture or dresses, like Aguiar or Harper Della-Piana, a classically trained draper, pattern maker and fitter who works on everything from Broadway and Hollywood film costumes to bridal gowns, and owns Seams Couture and Custom Bridal Studio in Providence.

Such experts can help you cut up your dress, possibly making it into two items like a top and a skirt. “Sometimes we take the sleeve off, sometimes we cut the dress,” Aguiar says. “We can redesign the dress for a reasonable price, and you can wear it again.”

Don’t overlook the power of accessories to transform the look of a dress in a modern, funky or fun way. Try a large beaded necklace, or Doc Martens. “You can always just throw a belt on it,” Thompson says, “or even wear a pashmina scarf.”

For a more coordinated look, establish a color, length and fabric, then let your bridesmaids have fun with the neckline.

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IF THERE’S JUST NO WAY YOU CAN WEAR THE DRESS AGAIN …

Let’s face it. Whether it’s due to a lurid color, a taffeta skirt, or something else entirely, you may find yourself in a situation where you know you’re never going to be able to wear your bridesmaid dress anyplace else.

So what do you do with it?

You’ve got options.

Help another lady look fabulous for a formal event by donating it to an organization that supplies girls and women in need. There are a few such programs in Rhode Island, including Jordan’s Furniture’s Belle of the Ball, Jen Carter’s Aquidneck Island Prom Dress Drive, and Providence Princess, organized by the Providence Teachers Union.

If you want to make back the cash you spent on the dress, you can rent it online through a website like Rent the Runway. Or, you can do what Heather Pierce did. She knew someone who made wristlets out of different types of fabric and sold them at farmers markets and craft fairs. “I gave her the dress,” Pierce says. “She made wristlets out of the blue fabric, and then put a strip of the lacy black petticoat to decorate it. It was really cute.”

Pierce gave out the wristlets to her fellow bridesmaids, and saved one to give to the daughter of the couple who had gotten married. “I thought it would be nice for her to have something from her parents’ wedding,” she says.

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Visit CoastalQueenCruises.com 2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

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REAL WEDDING

Sarah & John July 5, 2019

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ewport resident John Toracinta really lucked out when a summer roommate introduced him to her friend, Sarah Holfelder. Two years after meeting, the pair started dating, and five years later, he proposed atop a red rock cliff in Denver. Given their Newport association, it felt like the natural place to tie the knot. The pair were wed at St. Mary’s Church (after a last-minute dash to City Hall, when they discovered that the maid of honor had signed the wrong line on the marriage license), then everyone headed to Fort Adams for the reception. — LISA G. MCCURDY

“Newport is where our story began. We figured it would be a great start to our next chapter.”

FORT-IFIED

The couple chose Fort Adams for its history, iconic views and casual vibe. Cocktails in the North Casemates were followed by a tented reception on the North Lawn, with its views of the Newport Pell Bridge and Narragansett Bay. “We wanted almost like an outdoor summer party, as opposed to something in a ballroom.

And Fort Adams offered that,” John says.

HOW SWEET IT IS

The couple opted for a sweetheart cake from Mad Hatter Bakery — a vanilla creation adorned with white roses and greenery. Guests topped off the summer night with a full ice cream sundae bar.

THE TIME OF THEIR LIFE

After dinner, John and Sarah treated their guests to a little entertainment. “We surprised the entire wedding with a choreographed dance from the movie Dirty Dancing, after secretly taking dance lessons for three months,” says the groom. And, if you were wondering — yes, they nailed the lift.

A reception dress made for dancing!

PRESTO CHANGO

The bride chose two different gowns for her big day. For the ceremony, Sarah wore a strapless mermaid-cut fit-and-flare gown covered with lace motifs, accented with sequins and beading, from Sottero and Midgley. “As cliche as it sounds, I just fell in love with the way the dress fit my body,” she says. “I am naturally very petite, and never would have imagined picking out a strapless cut, but this dress immediately made me feel confident and sexy in my own way.” For the reception (and the big dance), Sarah wore a simple spandex-material dress from Express, with built-in shorts and sneakers.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

The newlyweds honeymooned in London and Croatia, and settled in Middletown, where Sarah is a behavior analyst and John works in product marketing.

Featured Vendors

PHOTOGRAPHER, VIDEOGRAPHER: Move Mountains Co. CEREMONY VENUE: St. Mary’s Church RECEPTION VENUE: North Lawn at Fort Adams BRIDAL GOWN: Alexandra’s Boutique BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Joanna August SUIT: The Black Tux HAIR, MAKEUP: Jennie Kay Beauty NAILS: Signature Nails FLOWERS: Clements’ Marketplace CATERER, DECOR RENTAL: Glorious Affairs Ltd. CAKE: Mad Hatter Bakery TRANSPORTATION: Viking Tours RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: DJ Bob Carpenter, Main Event Weddings

2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

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REAL WEDDING

Jaimie & Bryan September 21, 2019

J

aimie Orrico’s family home in Newport made the City by the Sea the ideal location for her wedding to Bryan Farris. But the couple’s ties to Newport run even deeper. Their first weekend trip together was to Newport, and many of their major milestones as a couple happened here. So, of course, when Bryan was ready to pop the question, the place to do it was Newport — the Music Room at the Breakers, to be exact. “The following day, and to my surprise, Bryan had planned for both our families to meet us in Newport to celebrate our engagement and St. Patrick’s Day,” says Jaimie. Naturally, a Newport wedding was to follow. — LGM

“Bryan fell in love with Newport, too, and we couldn’t imagine getting married anywhere else.”

STEEPED IN HISTORY

The couple’s familiarity with Newport meant that they could embrace all of the historic culture that the city has to offer. After a ceremony at Newport’s famed St. Mary’s Church, guests gathered for a reception at Eisenhower House. “The house had that New England charm we were searching for, with such an amazing view of the bay and the bridge,” says Jaimie.

MARCHING TO THEIR OWN DRUMMER

Guests were treated to a surprise visit from the Portsmouth High School Drumline, which set the mood for the evening’s festivities. “Everyone was ready to dance into the reception,” says Jaimie. The couple worked with the students and the PHS Music Department in the months leading up to the wedding to add this unique touch to their big day.

FRUITS AND FLORALS

“We worked to enhance the natural beauty of the Eisenhower House without it translating as rustic,” says Jaimie of her work with Carlone’s Florist and Ryan Designs. White and cream flowers — primarily hydrangeas and roses — were combined with olive branches and ivy on the tables, and in a long garland of roses and greenery on the 40-person head table that anchored the reception space.

Lemons and limes filled glass hurricanes at the bars. “I just loved the idea to utilize fruit instead of florals to add a touch of color to our reception,” says Jaimie.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

The newlyweds honeymooned in Greece and Italy, then returned home to New York, where Bryan is a director at an investment bank, and Jaimie is vice president at another investment bank.

Featured Vendors

PHOTOGRAPHER: Tiffany Axtmann Photography CEREMONY VENUE: St. Mary’s Church RECEPTION VENUE: Eisenhower House Jaimie wore BRIDAL GOWN: Pronovias her mother’s BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Alfred Sung cathedral veil TUXEDOS & SUITS: The Black Tux; Suit Supply during the HAIR, MAKEUP: Allison Barbera Beauty ceremony.

FLOWERS: Carlone’s Florist CATERER: Russell Morin CAKE: Scialo Bros. Bakery RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: J-Riz Entertainment, Portsmouth High School Drumline

2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

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REAL WEDDING

Priscilla & Eli July 6, 2019

W

hen Priscilla Argueta and Eli Keimach first met in college, he had to work extra hard to attract her interest. “Eli was very persistent,” Priscilla acknowledges. After nearly a year, she decided to give him a chance, and was instantly smitten. When Eli proposed on Priscilla’s 26th birthday, they decided on a New England summer wedding. “We wanted to find a place that we both loved and would be fun to go to for all of our out-of-town guests,” says Priscilla. They chose the Atlantic Resort at Wyndham Newport Hotel for their getaway wedding weekend. — LGM

“We loved the fact that we could have a wedding in Newport, but not right on the beach, as we didn’t really want a typical beach wedding.”

ALL IN THE FAMILY

From Priscilla’s father walking her down the aisle to Eli’s sister as the wedding officiant, the couple’s big day was focused on family. “It’s the one day where you and your partner have everyone that means the most to you in the world in the same room, and they’re there to celebrate you both,” says the bride. The couple incorporated a ring-warming ceremony into their nuptials, passing the jewelry around for each guest to pray over. Even their 3-yearold nephew and ringbearer, James, got in on the fun. “He took the microphone away from his mom when she was supposed to give her matron of honor speech,” Priscilla recalls.

“James felt that it was his turn to make a speech for us, and stole the whole show!”

DREAMY DECOR

Guests were asked to sign a piece to make the couple’s puzzle complete.

The couple worked with Flowerthyme to create a bright and natural look with flowing greenery through both the ceremony and reception.

Playing off the bridesmaids’ blush gowns, florals included peonies, garden roses, ranunculus, garden spray roses and mixed eucalyptus.

Crystals hanging from the Wyndham’s ceiling added to the day’s dreamy and magical atmosphere.

HAVE THEIR CAKE

The three-tiered cake from Sugar Mama’s Sweets and Treats meant that there was a dessert option for every palate: the bottom layer was pineapple coconut cake, the middle was lemon, and the top tier was strawberry. The cake was wrapped in white icing and covered in blush flowers and greenery to tie in with the reception decor. And to make sure every sweet tooth was satisfied, there was a bar with cannoli, brownies and more.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

The couple honeymooned in Mexico and returned to Durham, North Carolina, where Priscilla is a corporate recruiter and Eli is an assistant football coach at Duke University.

Featured Vendors

PHOTOGRAPHER: Joanna Sue Photography VENUE: Atlantic Resort at Wyndham Newport Hotel PLANNER: Sweet Deets Events BRIDAL GOWN, BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Ana’s Bridal Boutique SUITS: Miltons, Jos. A. Bank HAIR, MAKEUP: Beauty by Bianca NAILS: Pinkees Nail Spa FLOWERS: Flowerthyme CAKE: Sugar Mama’s Sweets and Treats RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: Chris Saraiva

2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

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REAL WEDDING

Kate & Matt August 31, 2019

O

n a plane to Miami in 2016, Kate Lozinski found her true adventure with the man sitting next to her, Matt Brennan. Travel and spontaneity became the center of their courtship, from a hiking trip to Zion and Bryce National Parks in Utah to adopting their German shepherd, Boomer. After Matt proposed on top of a mountain in Asheville, North Carolina, overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains, their wedding became another chance to share the beauty of one of their favorite places — Newport — with their friends and family. — LGM

“Our favorite moment from our wedding was running around on the beach at sunset, when the sky turned the craziest shade of orange, blissfully chasing seagulls, laughing, and jumping around at how perfect everything was in that moment.”

STEPPING THROUGH HISTORY

While the bride and groom prefer simple accents and decor, there was no question that they would wed at St. Mary’s Church. A sanctuary steeped in history, it’s best known as the site where John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier exchanged vows in 1953. “Walking out of the Kennedy doors was a dream,” says Kate.

ALL FUN AND GAMES

The couple are avid hikers, so each table was named for a national park.

The reception at Newport Beach House reflected the couple’s playful personalities.

Tables were labeled with retro postcards of America’s national parks, and the outdoor space was outfitted with a giant Jenga tower and cornhole boards sporting their college logos (handmade by the bride). The Adirondack chairs overlooking the ocean now adorn the couple’s backyard.

#LoveAtFirstFlight

In a nod to their meet-cute, the couple’s social media hashtag reflected their journeys together. But the adventures on their wedding day didn’t stop there. Photographer Katie Karlberg helped the duo take a special photo on top of the gates at the Breakers. “We have the same picture from the first time Matt visited Rhode Island in 2016,” says Kate. Only this time, she notes, “it involved climbing in a wedding gown!”

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

The couple honeymooned in the Seychelles and now live in Virginia, where Kate works as an assistant VP at an investment bank, and Matt is VP of business development for a cybersecurity company.

Featured Vendors

PHOTOGRAPHER: Katie Karlberg Photography CEREMONY VENUE: St. Mary’s Catholic Church RECEPTION VENUE, CATERER: Newport Beach House BRIDAL GOWN: Watters BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: lulus.com HAIR, MAKEUP: Allison Barbera Beauty NAILS: Love Nails & Spa FLOWERS: Twigs BRIDAL PARTY TRANSPORTATION: Viking Tours RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: DJ Graeme Ritchie VIDEOGRAPHER: Amylon Productions REHEARSAL DINNER: The Mooring

2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

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REAL WEDDING

Carolyn & Sankarsh July 5–7, 2019

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hen Carolyn Vazza arrived at Perdue University in 2013, her roommate introduced her to a friend named Sankarsh Iyengar. “I always joke that he never gave me a chance to meet anyone else since I met him the day before classes started my freshman year,” she says.

The pair quickly became friends, and then more. Five years later, Sankarsh proposed in her parents’ candlelit rose garden. To honor their family traditions, the couple chose to celebrate an American ceremony at Castle Hill Inn on July 5, and a South Indian ceremony at the Newport Marriott on July 7. “Since we were having two completely different wedding ceremonies in the same weekend,” Carolyn explains, “we wanted an area where our guests could have a mini-vacation.” — LGM

“Having wedding planners that were Newport locals not only boosted our confidence, but ensured we got the best deals on all the vendors.”

A MINOR ALTAR-CATION

On her way to the American ceremony, Carolyn had an unexpected run-in with the Newport Police after a fender-bender.

“No one was hurt, but let’s just say I wasn’t appropriately dressed to speak to a police officer as a passenger in the car,” she says. “I was wearing jean shorts and a bathrobe that said Bride.’ I’m glad I find it funny now.”

The flowers on the trellis were chosen to complement the flowers in the bouquet.

BURNING LOVE

While the wedding decor at Castle Hill Inn included lush floral table runners woven with candles, flames played a more prominent role in their South Indian wedding at the Marriott.

(In fact, the greatest challenge in planning their wedding was identifying a venue that would allow them to incorporate a fire.) “The ceremonial fire is probably the most important aspect of Hindu weddings, as it is regarded as a purifier and a sustainer of life,” Sankarsh explains.

The couple recites prayers as they walk around the fire seven times the completion of this ritual signifies their official union.

CULTURAL TRADITIONS

“The rituals we were planning are slightly different from most Indian weddings people in the U.S. are used to,” says Sankarsh. There is a ceremonial welcoming of the Groom, Varapraveshanam the Oonjal, a wooden swing on which the couple sits in hopes that their marriage is as smooth as swinging on a swing and the Malai Mathudal, an exchange of garlands to welcome each other into their families. Alankar Decor and Planners provided a welcome gate, the Oonjal, a pair of sculpted elephants to line the aisle, and a photo backdrop with an umbrella and rickshaw.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

The couple took a pre-wedding honeymoon to Singapore and India so Carolyn could meet Sankarsh’s extended family. The pair now live in Maryland, where Carolyn is a medical laboratory scientist and Sankarsh is an electrical engineer.

Featured Vendors

PHOTOGRAPHER: Melissa Robotti Photography CEREMONY RECEPTION VENUES: Castle Hill Inn, Newport Marriott PLANNER: Leila Ryan Events HAIR, MAKEUP: New Leaf Hair Studio FLOWERS: Sayles Livingston Design INDIAN WEDDING DECOR: Alankar Decor and Planners CATERERS: Castle Hill Inn, Indian Accent Catering CAKE: Confectionery Designs CEREMONY MUSIC: La Bella Musica RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: Splash!

2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

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REAL WEDDING

Lindsay & Kyle October 11, 2019

A

fter mutual friends introduced Lindsay Deutschmann and Kyle O’Leary, the pair didn’t date right away. But once their relationship took a romantic turn, they texted daily and talked on the phone every night (once for nearly eight straight hours), Lindsay from her home in South Carolina and Kyle from his residence in Virginia.

After they became engaged and moved to Newport so Kyle could attend the Naval War College, they realized that’s also where they wanted to tie the knot. “We loved being able to have our friends and family experience all of the things that we love so much about Newport and Rhode Island while they were here to share in our special day,” Lindsay says. In keeping with her ca. 1900 engagement ring, the couple chose Rosecliff for their elegant ceremony and celebration. –LGM

“We loved being able to use local companies for almost every aspect of our special day, and we were blown away by how many amazing options we had.”

L+K

The couple created a custom monogram, which was used throughout the wedding, appearing on the gold wax seal of their escort cards, and on the pillows adorning the lounge area on the terrace. The welcome boxes featured a sketch of Rosecliff along with the monogram, and it was featured on the invitations and program, tying everything together.

SUPER MOM

About four months before the wedding, Lindsay’s mother suffered a severe stroke. “She worked incredibly hard every day before the wedding, and when the day came, she was able to walk me down the aisle and give an amazing speech — in a pink ball gown, to boot,” says the bride. “I don’t think there was a dry eye at the ceremony!”

THE REST IS HISTORY

What says ‘thanks for being my groomsman’ like a personalized ax?

Both Lindsay and Kyle studied history in college, so Rosecliff was a perfect venue for the occasion. “The architecture is absolutely stunning,” says Lindsay. “When we walked into the ballroom for the first time, all we could do was look up at the beautiful ceiling.” The reception featured a Marie Antionette–themed dessert table with macaron towers, custom mini-cakes, croquembouche, and other bitesize desserts. Each dining table was named for a Newport mansion, and custom sketches of the mansions were adhered to mirrors hung

on a boxwood display. A live artist captured their first dance on canvas. And Lindsay and Kyle worked with local glassblower Thames Street Glass to make each guest a hand-blown glass pineapple — a historic symbol of hospitality to remind them of their special weekend in Newport.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

The newlyweds honeymooned across the western U.S., stopping in Yosemite and Zion national parks, as well as Napa and Lake Tahoe. Eventually, they settled in Mystic, Connecticut, where Lindsay is an HR manager and Kyle is a submarine officer in the Navy.

Featured Vendors

PHOTOGRAPHER: Brianna Wilbur Photography VENUE: Rosecliff PLANNER: Infinite Events BRIDAL GOWN: JLM Couture INVITATIONS: Champagne and Ink HAIR, MAKEUP: Ali Lomazzo Beauty NAILS: Nautical Nails & Spa FLOWERS: Stoneblossom CATERER: Russell Morin Catering & Events CAKE: Confectionery Designs TRANSPORTATION: Viking Tours, Rockstar Limo LIVE PAINTING: Vesna Longton CEREMONY MUSIC: Atlantic Strings RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: Elevated Pulse Productions

2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

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REAL WEDDING

Rachel & Mike August 29, 2019

R

achel Baker first encountered Mike Osborne on a dating app in late 2014. “Mike swiped right for obvious reasons. Rachel swiped right because she thought Mike had a boat,” the couple quipped on their wedding website. The two settled on a first date at a dive bar in San Francisco’s Mission District, but Rachel cut the date short (it was past her bedtime, after all). Mike wouldn’t give up that easily, however, and his persistence led to a second date, then more. “After we’d been dating for a while, Rachel somewhat jokingly mentioned that I had three years to pop the question or she was out of there,” Mike says. “ I took that to heart and made sure I hit her timeline — and with only a couple of weeks to spare.” — LGM

First look fakeout — that’s a dude in a dress!

“One of the greatest parts of choosing to get married in Newport was being able to travel back 4–5 times to plan, which only deepened our connection to the area.”

HONORING HER FATHER

On a visit to Rhode Island in 2017, Mike proposed to Rachel at the Point Judith Lighthouse, near where her father’s ashes had been spread. “It was there that, symbolically in front of her father, I got down on one knee and asked Rachel to marry me,” he says.

A TOUCH OF DUTCH (MASTERS)

In a nod to Newport’s history, the bride and groom hosted a formal affair at Glen Manor House, pulling decor inspiration from the 17th-century Dutch Masters, with deep, rich hues and pops of color against dark backgrounds.

The bride and bridesmaids held bouquets of muted blush and burgundy blooms set amidst greenery, while a sumptuous arch set the backdrop for the ceremony. The colors carried to the reception, where dahlias, roses, astrantia romana, ranunculus, scabiosa and lisianthus played deep colors against black linens. Even the cake was black, with metallic gold marbling and jewel-toned flowers trailing off the top. “The black cake was a risk, but it really was a showstopper,” says Rachel.

FIRST LOOK X 2

Most couples stage a “first look” in order to assuage nerves ahead of the ceremony, or to give themselves more time for portraits. But Rachel seized the opportunity to lighten the mood and play a prank on her groom. “After some suspenseful moments, I get the tap [on my shoulder], collect myself, and turn around — only to see one of my groomsmen in a wedding dress,” says Mike. “It was an absolutely outrageous moment that actually calmed my nerves and put me at ease for the real first look.”

WEDDING DAY GIFTS

Rachel and Mike gave their mothers gold bracelets engraved with their wedding anniversary dates. “Our parents have always been the ultimate sources of inspiration for us on what it means to be husband and wife, and what love really means,” says Mike.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

After honeymooning in Africa, the pair returned to San Francisco, where Rachel is a cardiac transplant nurse and Mike is a VP in investment management.

Featured Vendors

PHOTOGRAPHER: Allison Markova VENUE: Glen Manor House BRIDAL GOWN: Lace & Bustle Bridal BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: BHLDN TUXEDO: Suitsupply PLANNER: Leila Ryan Events MAKEUP: New Leaf Hair Studio NAILS: Spa Fjör at Hotel Viking FLOWERS: Fig & Squill CATERER: Blackstone Caterers CAKE: Confectionery Designs LINEN/DECOR RENTAL: PEAK Event Services

2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

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REAL WEDDING

Natalie & Nicole October 12, 2019

F

rom their first date, Natalie Doyle and Nicole Fiore were clearly made for each other. After meeting at work and planning their first date, both unwittingly picked the same off-thebeaten-path pizza parlor, thinking they were impressing the other with their insider knowledge of Boston cuisine. As they took a stroll after dinner, fireworks lit up the sky, and the pair knew that this was something special. Three years later, when Nicole proposed to Natalie, they picked Newport as the ideal destination for their wedding. — LGM

“Newport is the perfect mix of beach getaway elegance, historical landmark and destination wedding — without going too far from home.”

GOAT ISLAND GETAWAY

The brides chose Belle Mer as their venue, not only for its sweeping vistas of Narragansett Bay, but for its tranquil location away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Newport. “We wanted a location that offered an ocean vibe with formal elegance,” says Natalie. “Everything was perfect — especially the mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing guests to freely enjoy the ocean breeze.” (In another coincidence, they discovered that most of the employees were students at Johnson and Wales University, Natalie’s alma mater!)

The brides gave each guest a customized candle to remember the day.

A COUPLE IN STEP

The brides kept their gowns a secret from each other until their wedding day, but both chose similar styles with plenty of lace. During the ceremony, “we took a moment at the altar to stop and turn to all of the people who mean the world to us looking back — really taking in the moment, standing together, hand in hand, about to become wives,” says Natalie.

SPECIAL MOMENTS

Each detail of the wedding was planned out thoughtfully, from the lush hydrangea altar (a collaboration between Nicole’s father and Young Designs) to the vegan vanilla cake (to accommodate an allergy) and sweet cotton candy sendoff. But it was an unscripted moment that truly brought their journey full circle: At the end of the night, Natalie, Nicole and their guests were treated to a fireworks display put on by another wedding nearby. It was a serendipitous reminder of the date that started it all!

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

After honeymooning at Gurney’s Resort on Goat Island, the couple returned to Boston, where Natalie works as an executive assistant for a financial firm, and Nicole is a customer service manager at the educational travel company where the two met.

Featured Vendors

PHOTOGRAPHER: Katie Karlberg Photography PLANNER: Megan Johnson at Longwood Venues VENUE, CATERING, CAKE: Belle Mer BRIDAL GOWNS: I Do Wedding Bridal, David’s Bridal HAIR: Curl Up & Dye Salon MAKEUP: Audrey Moschella, Blush Vanity Room FLOWERS: Young Designs LLC RECEPTION ENTERTAINMENT: DJ Ron Furr, Entertainment Specialists REHEARSAL DINNER: Salvation Cafe

2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

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REAL WEDDING

Kristen & Mike August 16, 2019

K

risten Weigel and Mike Booth’s wedding was a reflection of the couple’s laid-back attitudes and the creative spirit in both of their families. The college sweethearts started the festivities with a casual rehearsal dinner at Kristen’s family home in Jamestown on Thursday night, followed by an intimate outdoor wedding ceremony on Friday. After the ceremony, the group gathered for dinner in the family’s garage, which was transformed for the occasion with strings of white lights, heirloom white wicker furniture and a wall hung with old mirrored windows. An improvised chandelier woven with vines, branches and string lights illuminated a table covered with crisp white tablecloths and a slate gray runner. A larger reception was held in Narragansett the next day, giving outof-town guests several opportunities to gather. “Our approach … was not conventional, but in the end, it turned out to be just what we wanted, and the guests loved it,” says Kristen. — LGM

This is a garage!

“We both come from families of creative DIY people, so we made sure to tap into everyone’s strengths to pull this wedding’s celebration together.”

A FAMILY TABLE

The botanical table runner for the Friday dinner was made up of silver dollar eucalyptus leaves, seeded eucalyptus and feathered eucalyptus, with baby’s breath, lavender and small potted succulents tucked into the leaves.

(Even the bridal bouquet had a large succulent in the center, which Kristen planted after the wedding.) As an added personalized touch, the china used for the post-wedding dinner was Kristen’s parents’ and grandparents’ wedding china, and the silverware consisted of multiple wedding sets from both sides of Kristen’s family.

KEEPSAKE KICKS

The bride’s mother, Carol, designed custom Converse sneakers for each of the bridesmaids, as well as the bride and groom, for Saturday’s festivities. The designs included a map of the island and the Newport Pell Bridge with a plane overhead towing a banner that read CONGRATS MIKE AND KRISTEN. Each person’s role in the wedding was written on the tongue of the shoe. “Our hope is that every time the bridesmaids wear the shoes they think back to our celebration and the love that was shared that weekend,” says Kristen.

ICING ON THE CAKE

A formal wedding cake was reserved for Saturday’s celebration. For Friday’s gathering, the groom’s sister, who studied baking and pastry at Johnson and Wales University, made the couple’s favorite desserts: blood orange crème brulee and espresso chocolate lava cakes.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

After a romantic mini-moon at the Serenity Inn in Newport, the couple returned to Milford, Massachusetts, where Kristen is an architect and Mike is a project engineer at Hasbro.

Featured Vendors

PHOTOGRAPHER: Lefebvre Photography VENUES: Private Home, Kinney Bungalow at Sunset Farm BRIDAL GOWN: BHLDN, tailored by Maiden Bridal HAIR: Level Beauty Collective MAKEUP: Alex Walsh NAILS: Young’s Nail Salon FLOWERS: Wren Floral Design, Carol Chew (bride’s mother) CATERER: Wegman’s Catering, WBG Fine Catering & Event Design CEREMONY MUSIC: Raj Kapoor, cellist

2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

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REAL WEDDING

Lauren & Jordan July 6, 2019

L

auren Eisenberg’s first date with Jordan Cherson was as dreamy and romantic as their wedding would later be. “It wasn’t just typical drinks and dinner,” says the bride. “He picked me up in his dark green Wrangler and we drove [to Brooklyn] and rode Jane’s Carousel.

Then we walked around, ate, and ended up having our first kiss on this really small beach nearby.” Three years later, Jordan proposed by the water at their favorite restaurant in Westchester, New York, where a photographer friend was on hand to capture the moment, and their parents were waiting on the balcony to celebrate.

Choosing Newport for their wedding was an easy decision: their first vacation as a couple was in the City by the Sea. “We actually have a heart-shaped rock framed in our hallway that we found on our first trip,” says Lauren. Prophetic indeed. — LGM

“Castle Hill Inn was always our favorite. It’s simply magical, every time, rain or shine!”

CHILDHOOD DREAMS

Lauren wanted the black-tie wedding to be romantic, magical and delicate — much like her Oscar de la Renta gown. The chuppah was covered in vines and bursting with roses, while at the reception, astilbe, peonies, roses and ranunculus filled the tables, creating an atmosphere that Lauren says she had dreamed about since childhood.

SWEET TOUCHES

From monogrammed fans for the ceremony to bathroom doors labelled with childhood photos of the bride and groom, the couple brought their own special touch to their Big Day. The wedding cake was topped with a 3D-printed likeness of the bride and groom, plus a special addition. “Since our pup, Gatsby, couldn’t attend the wedding, we wanted to make sure he was included, so he also made it onto the cake with us,” says Lauren.

Document the day with cameras for the bride and groom.

FORGET THE FORECAST

As the saying goes, if you don’t like the weather in New England, just wait a few minutes.

Lauren’s advice to future brides is to put the forecast out of your mind. “On our wedding day, it looked like it was going to pour all day.

You could see water in the sky, but the fog created the most magical fairytale environment that I didn’t even know was possible.”

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

The couple’s official honeymoon was postponed due to COVID-19, although they spent some post-wedding time in the Hamptons and at Castle Hill. They now live in Westchester, where Lauren is the director of photo production for a fashion house, and Jordan is a real estate broker.

Featured Vendors

PHOTOGRAPHER: Jana Williams VENUE, CATERING: Castle Hill Inn BRIDAL GOWN: Oscar de la Renta TUXEDO: Zohreh Uomo Inc. HAIR: Jennifer Tawa MAKEUP: Dani Wagener FLOWERS: JNG Event Consulting DECOR: Ryan Designs CAKE: Party Favors, Brookline, Mass.

CAKE TOPPER: Doob3d CEREMONY/RECEPTION MUSIC: Night Shift Entertainment

2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

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Awards

BEST OF NEWPORT WEDDING We’re proud to bring you the results of our annual Best of Newport Wedding Awards, featuring winners in 31 categories, as chosen by the readers of Newport Wedding magazine and attendees at the Newport Wedding Show.

Recognizing how compact the Ocean State is, we eliminated distinctions between Newport County and statewide winners this year, crowning just one victor in each category (except in the case of a tie). But we acknowledged the runner-up, so you’d have more options to choose from.

Only Rhode Island–based businesses are eligible for this award, so we had to exclude some popular choices. Nevertheless, we hope the results prove helpful as you’re planning your Big Day. BRIDAL FINERY

LUD WIG PHOTOGRAPHY

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Congratulations to all!

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ELISE MEAD ER PHOTOGRAPHY

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PHOTOGRAPHY B Y JESSICA POHL

Accommodations

Bridesmaid Dresses

Ceremony Venue

vacationnewport.com Runner-up urney’s Newport

couture-bridal.com Runner-up David’s Bridal

newportexperience.com oceancli Runner-up ay Chapel at the otel iking

Band

Cakes

Desserts

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Bridal Accessories al ne

bridal nery.com Runner-up erception ewelry

Bridal Shop a

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sparkbridal.com Runner-up Couture Bridal Co.

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madhatterbakery.com Runner-up Sin

eatwicked.com Runner-up he Newport Sweet Shoppe

Caterer

DJ

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blackstonecaterers.com Runner-up mery’s Catering

lukesent.com

Ceremony Music

musicmachinerid .com Runner-up D alentina

facebook.com labellamusicari Runners-up ) ichael Di ucci, Stella unes

Florist

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cherryhill ower.com Runners-up ) ichelle eanne loral Design, Sayles ivingston Design 2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

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Gifts & Favors

Newport Chowder Company newportchowdercompany.com Runner-up: A Girl in Pearls

Hair

Ali Lomazzo Beauty

alilomazzobeauty.com Runner-up: Bella Rose Beauty

Invitations

Champagne and Ink

champagneandink.com Runner-up ittle Birdie apercra

Jeweler SIN

JWESSELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Baxter’s Fine Jewelry baxtersjewelry.com Runner-up: Jason & Co.

Makeup

Bella Rose Beauty

bellarosebeautyri.com Runner-up ake e p by Christina aian

Men’s Formalwear Aldo’s House of Formals

aldoshouseo ormals.com Runners-up ( ): Carl Anthony Tuxedo, Men’s Wearhouse

Nails

Rob Michael Salon Spa robmichaelsalonspa.com Runner-up: Star Nails & Spa

Officiant

Heavenly Weddings BELLA ROSE BEAUTY

ANTHONY NICCOLI PHOTOGRAPHY

CHERRYHILL FLOWERS

CHRIS & AMAND A PHOTOGRAPHY

LEILA RYAN EVENTS

SARAH PUD LO PHOTOGRAPHY

heavenlyweddingsinri.com Runner-up: Allison Schumann

Party Rental

PEAK Event Services

peakeventservices.com Runner-up: Uniquely Chic Vintage Rentals

Photo Booth

Smashing Photo Booth

smashingbooth.com Runner-up: Luke Renchan Entertainment

Photographer

Penny Souza Photography

pennysouzaphotography.com Runner-up: BMedeiros Photography

Reception Venue Crystal Lake Golf Club crystallakegolfclub.com Runner-up OceanCli

Caterer

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MAAIK E B ERNSTROM PHOTOGRAPHY

Rehearsal Dinner Venue een nne s

From gala events with 2,000 people to intimate cocktail parties in your own home, Blackstone Caterers is known for its exquisite food, spectacular presentation and unfailing service since 1945.

Blackstone Caterers 224 John Clarke Road, Middletown, RI 02842 401.848.2030 blackstonecaterers.com

ueenanneslo .com Runner-up OceanCli

Spa

The Bodhi Spa

thebodhispa.com Runner-up Spa r at the otel iking

Tent Rental

Newport Tent Company

newporttent.com Runners-up ) umparoo Rentals R , ranzi ents vents

Transportation Rockstar Limo

rockstarlimo.net Runner-up iking ours of Newport Newport Wedding rolley

Videographer tisti

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Wedding Planner e la

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leilaryanevents.com Runner-up C Weddings

Wedding Weekend Activity Schooner Aurora

newportexperience.com schooner-aurora Runner-up nti ue acht Collection

Inspiration

FOR YOUR NEWPORT WEDDING

at

NewportWeddingMagazine.com 2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

57

PICTURE

Perfect

18 scenic spots to take wedding or engagement photos.

By Veronica Musch Illustration by Sharon Morgera sharonmorgera.com

2. Castle Hill Light Ocean Avenue, Newport

A wooden staircase, an iconic lighthouse and unparalleled ocean views make this a popular photography spot.

3. Fort Adams $ 90 Fort Adams Drive, Newport

1. Brenton Point $= Photo session or rental fee; visit websites or contact venue for details.

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NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM | 2021

Ocean Avenue, Newport

Rocky shores, rolling waves and fields just made for kite-flying.

Exterior shots of the sprawling lawns, bay vista and fort are free; setups inside the fort, barracks or casements are $100 the first hour and $50 each additional hour. fortadams.org

8. The Elms $

13. Newport Art Museum $ 76 Bellevue Ave., Newport

367 Bellevue Ave., Newport

9. Marble House $ 596 Bellevue Ave., Newport

10. Chateau-sur-Mer $ 474 Bellevue Ave., Newport

Photographs are permitted in the gardens surrounding these Preservation Society of Newport County mansions and outside of Marble House’s Chinese Tea House. Reservations must be made 2–12 weeks in advance, and an hourlong shoot costs $250 for members and $500 for nonmembers (although memberships start at $55). newportmansions.org 11. Ochre Court $ 100 Ochre Point Ave., Newport

4. Bowen’s Wharf or Bannister’s Wharf

6. The Point

Downtown Newport

Outstanding views of the Newport Pell Bridge can be had from Storer Park, Battery Park and Van Zandt Pier.

These are quintessential Newport waterfront settings, although you might find yourself competing with the crowds.

5. Goat Island Lighthouse $ 1 Goat Island, Newport

Pose with the lighthouse at Gurney’s Newport Resort and capture the Newport Pell Bridge in the distance. Call (401) 851-3378 for more information.

Washington Street, Newport

7. Queen Anne Square Thames Street between Church and Mill streets, Newport

Trinity Church’s iconic steeple makes an ideal backdrop, especially in spring, when the magnolia trees are in bloom.

Salve Regina University’s Ochre Court mansion offers a stunning interior or exterior backdrop; $275–$375 for a one-hour session; reserve 4 weeks in advance at (401) 341-2197 or mariann.maida@salve.edu.

12. Forty Steps Narragansett Ave., Newport

This spot on the Cliff Walk offers ocean views and a dramatic staircase that descends down to the water, providing multiple options for photography. cliffwalk.com

Art lovers can reserve 90 minutes inside the Griswold House galleries or on museum grounds; $400, book at least a week in advance. newportartmuseum.org.

14. Redwood Library & Athenaeum $ 50 Bellevue Ave., Newport

Books more your thing? Reserve an hour in the stacks or on the grounds with 36 hours’ notice for $350. redwoodlibrary.org 15. Boyd’s Wind Grist Mill Prospect Avenue, Middletown

Pose beside this historic windmill at Paradise Valley Park. middletownhistoricalsociety.org 16. Horseback $ 287 Third Beach Road, Middletown

Book a Newport Equestrian trail ride at Sachuest or Third beaches, or another location of your choice; call (401) 837-4188 for pricing. newportequestrian.com 17. Norman Bird Sanctuary $ 583 Third Beach Road, Middletown

The scenic trails at NBS can be reserved 3 weeks in advance for a $75 fee, 2 hours max. normanbirdsanctuary.org/visit 18. Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge 769 Sachuest Point Road, Middletown

If you don’t mind a little dirt, the paths offer stunning vistas and the chance to encounter deer or other wildlife.

2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

59

flowers

Power FLOWER

Sure, centerpieces are nice. But for the ultimate floral statement, think outside the vase.

By Fred Albert

This Takes the Cake

Keep your geode and marbleized cakes.

What’s more romantic than a cascading trail of pink and peach posies, as in this creation from Confectionery Designs?

MELISSA ROB OTTI PHOTOGRAPHY. SEE REAL WED D ING PAGE 4 2

The Runner Tumbles

When is a centerpiece not a centerpiece? When it’s a continuous blooming chain that bisects the table and spills down either end, as in this example from Stoneblossom.

ERIN M GINN

Wall Flower

A wall of greenery and blooms by Stoneblossom celebrates the union of Christopher Keiper and Morgan McLean, and provides a verdant backdrop for wedding photos. ERIN M GINN

A Towering Achievement

No centerpieces blocking conversation at this Atlantic Resort wedding, thanks to the buoyant white blossoms set atop towering glass columns.

PHOTOGRAPHY B Y SNAP WED D INGS F LOWERS B Y STONEB LOSSOM

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NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM | 2021

Peace Offering

A single olive branch adorns each place setting at Jaimie Orrico and Bryan Farris’ wedding.

TIF F ANY AX TMANN PHOTOGRAPHY. SEE REAL WED D ING PAGE 3 6

Decor Take a Load Off

PEAK Event Services assembled a stylish lounge seating area for Lindsay Deutschmann and Kyle O’Leary’s Rosecliff wedding. Custom pillows bear the couple’s monogram.

B RIANNA WILB UR PHOTOGRAPHY. SEE REAL WED D ING PAGE 4 4

A Glazed Look

Blue and white pottery makes a handsome mix-and-match centerpiece.

Inexpensive versions can be found at places like T.J. Maxx or HomeGoods.

MELISSA STIMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY

TOUCHES

Pearls of Wisdom

It’s the decorative flourishes that make a wedding distinctive.

By Fred Albert

Remember When?

Table numbers at Molly Hintz and Brian Urbach’s wedding were accompanied by childhood photos of them at that particular age.

JAMIE CORB MAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Oyster shells inscribed with names and table numbers make a nicely nautical escort card. For easy reference, arrange them alphabetically. ANNE LEE PHOTOGRAPHY

This is In Tents

Trivial Pursuit

ERIN M GINN

B RIANNA WILB UR PHOTOGRAPHY. SEE REAL WED D ING PAGE 4 4

For a Castle Hill wedding, the tent was draped in a nautical navy-and-white stripe and illuminated with crystal chandeliers, for an anything-but-ordinary look.

Make paper napkins cool by imprinting them with fun facts about the couple’s relationship.

2021| NEWPORT WEDDINGMAGAZINE.COM

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Fashion, Prizes & Fun!

Sunday, February 28, 2021 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.• ROSECLIFF & OCEANCLIFF

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For participating exhibitors go to NewportWeddingShow.com

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