BC the Mag Occasions Spring/Summer 2016

SPRING/SUMMER 2016

CELEBRATIONS

Stories and scenes from the latest Bergen County parties

FOR THE LOVE OF WINE

It’s time to start thinking outside the bottle

THE TO DO’S BEFORE THE I DO’S

Tips to prepare you for your big day

We are committed to providing each We are committed to providing each client, friendmember and family client, friend and family with memberexperience with anof unrivaled an unrivaled a lifetime. experience of a lifetime.

Hosting Hosting only one elegant event at a only one elegant event at a time and having over twenty years of time and having over twenty experience allows us to provide each years of experience allows us of our patrons withour individual to valued provide each of valued service, affair customization and patrons with individual service, customization keen keenaffair attention to detail. Asand guests of attention to detail.

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deserve nothing less.

The warmth, comfort and charm ofand The The warmth, comfort Estatecharm offers of a truly The unique Estatesetting offersfor a truly unique setting for your your most special day. Our Georgianspecial day.

Our Georgianstyle most mansion boasts expansive style mansion boasts expansive gardens, spacious and elegant rooms

gardens, spacious and elegant

and décor, world-class cuisine and rooms and décor, worldexpert and cuisine courteousand staff.expert and class

courteous At The Estate, staff. we are devoted to At The Estate, areeverything devoted making your specialwe day to making your special day

you dreamed it would be… and much everything you dreamed it more. We would love the opportunity to would be... and much more. be a We partwould of your beautiful beginning, love the opportunity your to wonderful journey and abeautiful day you be a part of your beginning, will remember for ayour lifetime.wonderful

journey and a day you will remember 97 Rivervale Rd.for a lifetime.

River Vale, NJ 07675 P: 201-666-0444 | F: 201-666-3032 River Vale, NJ 07675 florentinegardens.com P: 201-666-0444 | F: 201-666-3032 florentinegardens.com

devoted

to making your special day

everything you dreamed it would be‌

and much more

PUBLISHERS SHARON & STEVEN GOLDSTEIN ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER BRANDON GOLDSTEIN EXECUTIVE EDITOR ROBERT GOLD DESIGN DIRECTOR DEANA IVORY MARKETING & SALES LINDA BARBA AMY SCHWARTZ CONTRIBUTING WRITERS TARA DELORENZO ANNA HENDERSON JACQUELINE HOPE SCOTT HORNAK MEGAN MONTEMARANO LAURA PETROCELLI TESSA VIOLE NATALIE ZISA CONTRIBUTING EVENT PLANNERS COUTURE CONCEPTS NY DREAMERS JOY EVENTS & DESIGN KRAFT EVENT MANAGEMENT NE OCCASION EVENT STYLING & DESIGN

BC the Magazine Occasions is published by BC the Mag Find us at www.BCtheMag.com For advertising and information, please call 201-265-2286 Copyright 2016. All materials are the property of Bergen County the Magazine, LLC., and may not be copied or reproduced without the written consent from the publishers.

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P U B L I S HE R’S L ETTER

LOVE is in the air! It’s that time of the year again, where we come out of our winter shells, adorn ourselves in our finest clothing and jewels, and head to party after party. With warm weather and summer still a distance away, it’s the best time of the year.

Although wedding season is in full swing, let’s not forget about the many other parties making Bergen County such a happy place to be. Doesn’t it sometimes seem like nobody even celebrates their birthdays in January or February? Then, halfway through March and I’m raising my glass to toast someone night after night! I’m guessing people in Alaska just never have a good time.

It’s not just all about big events either. We are celebrating occasions day after day. Sometimes, it simply being Friday is enough for us! We went about town, bottle of wine in tow, to check out the newest craze hitting our streets: Paint and Sips. We spoke to some of the shop owners about how we are all just ready to relive our 2nd Grade Art Class days, but this time, we’ve replaced the juice box for something stronger!

You’ll notice amongst these pages many an occasion that went off seemingly without a hitch. The photos don’t always tell the whole story though, as months of stressful planning go into making sure each and every detail is perfect on the day of the party. We spoke to Lisa Plant, who recently threw her daughter Jordan the Bat Mitzvah party for the ages, on how to keep calm, think grand, and deliver big on the special day.

One thing she didn’t mention, however, is food. Oftentimes, you’ll hear brides say they never even got a chance to eat at their wedding, they were so busy running around. The days of formal sit down affairs might be coming to an end, and we spoke with Anthony Villanueva, the new Executive Chef at Edgewood Country Club, to hear how the banquet food trends are shifting, making those special celebrations even more memorable.

And once that day arrives, one thing is for certain: people will be throwing money at you. Sometimes, literally. Although it’s easy to just head to Neiman’s and splurge, we spoke with Mark Seruya about how to keep the money coming years after the party stops.

Spring has sprung and the season of love has begun. Grab a cocktail and raise your glass, the party has started.

Cheers!

Brandon Goldstein

SPRING/SUMMER 2016

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SPRING/SUMMER

CONTENTS 10

MOET & MONET The rising popularity of Paint ‘n Sips

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SHOW ME THE MENU! Today’s wedding cuisine is a mix of tradition and reinvention

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MOMMY, I’M RICH! Learning to invest young is a rite of passage

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DAZZLING DIAMONDS When choosing your wedding ring, it’s all about the quality

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LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED! Choosing the right music for your big event

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FOR THE LOVE OF WINE As wine becomes more casual, it’s time to think outside the bottle

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THE TO DO’S BEFORE THE I DO’S Bridal tips to prepare you for your big day

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THE FUTURE OF WEDDING PLANNING Helpful tips to plan like a pro

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PLANNING THE PERFECT MITZVAH A child’s big day must make for a perfect celebration

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CELEBRATIONS Stories and scenes from Bergen’s best parties The Wedding of Maria Lauretta & John Chomenko The Wedding of Lisa DeMatteo & Russell Young The Wedding of Nikki Luppino & Will Benitez The Wedding of Alina Leshiner & Peter DeCicco The Wedding of Lori Biroc & Douglas Guido The Wedding of Christina Nicoletti & Michael Westphal The Wedding of Cassandra Derian & Kevin Mone The Wedding of Lisa Marie Vuono & Thomas Picillo The Engagement Party of Jessica Panicucci and Christopher Miras The Engagement Party of Michele Panicucci and Anthony Bizeta

The First Communion of Victoria DeVirgilio

Moet and Monet The Rising Popularity of Paint ‘n Sips

T

By Tara DeLorenzo

The paint ‘n’ sip night out has created a vibrant trend that has brushed its way through the country, as the business model is one that has been on a steady rise in popularity since 2007, but has really taken off in the last couple of years.

Mixing creativity with relaxation, the paint ‘n’ sip studios offer classes taught by real artists to painters of any level, and allow patrons to bring beverages such as wine, champagne, beer and non-alcoholic drinks. Major franchises include Painting with a Twist, Pinot’s Palette, Wine & Design, Bottle & Bottega and Paint Nite. Other independent studios have also opened, and many shops have popped up throughout Bergen County. The studios promise a perfect venue for birthday parties, bachelorette parties, date nights or just a simple night out.

One of the newest additions to the Bergen County area is Painting with a Twist of Glen Rock, which opened January 4, 2015. Owned by local couple Cheryl and Paul Siracusa, Painting with a Twist offers the perfect combination of art, painting and friends, according to Cheryl.

“I think people are always looking for something new and

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interesting to do alone or with friends,” she said. “Painting with a Twist is the perfect combination – wine, painting and friends.

If you come alone, you’ll make new friends and if you are looking for an escape from your day-to-day life, you can find that here. It allows you to get in the zone by painting a little, relaxing a little and laughing a lot.”

Chris Harvey, who owns Pinot’s Palette of Ridgewood with his wife, Emma, agrees, crediting society’s influx of technology as the reason for the paint ‘n’ sip studio’s success.

“We’re over-saturated with advertising, our cell phones, emails and computers, and this kind of activity gives us a chance to put the phone down for a couple of hours and reconnect with friends and loved ones,” he said. “Plus, it’s something active— you’re not just sitting and staring at each other, you’re doing something. You’re creating something – you’re creating art. The other thing is most people haven’t painted since kindergarten or grade school, and this is an opportunity to be creative, even if they’re not. We’re a beginner-level studio, and we do have a lot of talented people that paint with us, but a lot of people just come

for a night out, and after a couple hours, people are amazed with what they’ve done with our help. People love that. It’s a good feeling. It’s a self-esteem boost, and it’s active and fun. I think the backlash of technology is what drives our success.”

Pinot’s Palette of Ridgewood, which has been opened for more than a year, has noticed the growth of this vivid trend, but is confident in their franchise.

“I’ve seen more competition,” Chris said.

“More studios have popped up, but we’ve been busy since we’ve been open. It just turns out that people like to paint and drink and have fun – which is our tagline – but it’s true, people love it.”

What seems to be the common denominator between the franchises though is their love of art.

For Cheryl and her husband of Painting with a Twist, their discovery of the business model was through a friend who owned a franchise in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania. After 20 years in the meeting-planning industry and a life-long love of art, as well as a fashion illustration degree from Parson’s School of Design, Cheryl found it to be a perfect fit for her career, as it created an outlet for her creativity that her previous job didn’t allow for.

For Chris and Emma of Pinot’s Palette of Ridgewood, art had always been a fundamental aspect of their relationship. Emma came from a family of artists and art enthusiasts, and Emma taught middle school art; Chris was a musician. While they were saving money to buy their first home, Emma got a job at a Pinot’s Palette in Montclair, New Jersey, and found it to consistently be the best part of her day. With that discovery, the couple took the money they were using to buy a franchise and open their own studio.

With both companies, it seems that the most rewarding part remains to be the customer service aspect.

“We love to see the smiles on the faces of everyone as they are leaving,” Cheryl said. “If you come in after a bad day, you will definitely feel differently when you leave here, as art can be very soothing. We’re also looking forward to becoming the place for families in the area to bring their children who are interested in the arts but don’t have an outlet for it.”

Chris concurred, and added, “I’m excited about making people happy. Emma is the artist and I am definitely not. I really love being in the Continued on page 12

Join us for an unforgettable evening of fun, friends, and fine art!

Birthday Parties Bachelorettes Date Night Fundraisers Girls Night Out Corporate Events Holiday Parties

25 Oak Street Ridgewood, NJ www.PinotsPalette.com/Ridgewood 201-389-8676 SPRING/SUMMER 2016

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Continued from page 11

customer service industry, and running a business has been an amazing experience has been great and working with the people in Houston and people from other franchisees and other Pinot’s Palette owners in New Jersey has been an amazing experience.

People call me when they want to have fun, and that’s great feeling to say we’ve booked your party. Sometimes it’s a kid’s party and its making lasting memories and an impact that will hopefully last – maybe it’s their favorite birthday party, or it’s a retirement party or girls’ night out. That’s my favorite part.”

Each franchise offers a different experience. The Siracusa’s decision to open a Painting with the Twist came from the experience it promises its consumers.

“Painting with a Twist is truly a unique ‘getaway,’” he said.

“There are more than 7500 original pieces of copyrighted artwork, ranging from landscapes, abstracts and cityscapes, to creative renderings of animas, iconic buildings and florals, which have all been conceptualized and produced by our amazing Painting with a Twist art instructors. Our artists provide plenty of entertainment along with instruction. They create the fun atmosphere we have here. Our studio is a bright, happy and fun place to be.”

For Chris and Emma, it was the operational aspect that attracted them to Pinot’s Palette.

“When we first starting looking at what kind of paint ‘n’ sip studio we wanted, we looked at all the competitors and we selected Pinot’s Palette for several reasons,” Chris said. “First, operationally-speaking, we are a notch above the rest. We greet you at the door and from the second you walk in the door, you feel welcome. We have some operational excellence that other studios don’t have; for example, some studios don’t offer napkins, paper plates, ice, free bottled water or glassware, but we do. Also, the customer- facing website is one of the easiest to work with, so when you’re trying to figure out what painting to chose or how to sign up, I think our website and tech is better on the customer side, as well as on a running the business side.”

The paint ‘n’ sip experience is one that will be a stroke of entertainment, engagement and an enormously good time.

According to Chris, customers can expect, “a fun night out and

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they can expect to get their hands a little dirty,” while Cheryl added, “Whether you come alone or with others, you will walk away with your own masterpiece, and you will have had a lot of fun doing it.”

Wine and Design studios, which has four studios located in New Jersey, offer an experience that is tailored to its audience.

Their two-hour classes create an pleasurable venue for all ages and occasions. They also include four divisions: Art Buzz Kids, which looks to spark creativity in children, Wine & Design On Wheels, a program that partners with local businesses to bring painting parties to local venues, Paint it Forward, which works to deliver painting parties and donate part of the proceeds to charity organizations, and Team Building, a program that works to build team-building experiences.

Bottle & Bottega, which has locations in 10 states and only one in Central New Jersey, looks to create a sophisticated atmosphere that allows customers to feel as if they’re in their own living room.

It looks to promise “cool, dazzling art,” according to its website, as well as an unforgettable experience.

Paint Nite offers a different kind of model to the typical paint ‘n’ sip studio. Instead, of using a studio, it utilizing existing bars and restaurants to plan painting parties. Rather than focusing on a franchising model, it is based on a licensing agreement with the restaurants, encouraging growth of entrepreneurs.

A visit to a paint ‘n’ sip studio, with its expanding popularity and creative outlet, is a trip that both Chris and Cheryl agree is worth making.

“If you haven’t tried it, you have to try it,” Chris said. “In the beginning, Emma was dragging me, and I kept saying it’s just for the girls, but guys have just as much fun, if not more, than the girls. It’s a great date night, it’s great bachelorette party and it’s a great girls’ night out. For me, it’s great being in the businesses of fun and making people happy. “ To learn more about Painting with a Twist or Pinot’s Palette, visit paintingwithatwist.com/glen-rock or pinotspalette.com/ ridgewood

SHOW ME THE MENU! Today’s Wedding Cuisine Puts a New Spin on Culinary Classics and Reinvents Formal Entertaining

By Jacqueline Hope

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osts and guests at weddings and other social occasions are far more sophisticated and worldly today. Consumers are pulling complicated recipes off the Internet and pictures from Pinterest, enjoying exotic dishes at ethnic restaurants, and seeing a world of possibilities on the Food Network.This “foodie era,” As Anthony Villanueva calls it, means future brides and grooms planning their wedding menus are seeking out more interesting dishes --and experiences to go along with them.

In some cases, it’s time-honored classics done in new ways; in others, it’s throwing a whole different kind of party. Either way, new food trends are sweeping across the wedding world.

“Today’ it’s all about delivering the ‘wow factor’ and creating unique experiences for the guests,” says Villanueva, who joined Edgewood Country Club as executive chef last fall. The trends he’s seeing mirror the evolving tastes among his more discerning and worldlier clientele. New styles of cooking and serving at today’s weddings start with cocktail hour that may go straight through the dinner and end with new ways to do dessert. These trends also reflect the desire for more choices on the part of the party hosts.

Endless Cocktail Hour

Instead of the stuffy sit-down wedding dinner, Villanueva offers an “endless cocktail hour” with stations set up around the room.

This fosters greater interaction among guests and enables them to sample an extensive variety of eclectic dishes, starting with a light cocktail hour of appetizers and seguing into small-plate entrees and salads.

The stations are international, innovative and fun, and can be highly customized to the client’s tastes. For example, they may represent any and all global cuisines. Recent offerings have included polenta and risotto cakes, a Korean grill, Asian pot stickers, mini sliders, California tapas, Mexican fish tacos, and Moroccan tagines.

Guests can try a broader variety of dishes while mingling, dancing and often, sitting wherever they want. “Many of these parties don’t have assigned seating, which enables guests to move about more and enjoy the party together in new ways, which also extends that cocktail-hour feeling. And, they can eat as much or as little as they wish and choose from options they won’t typically see at other affairs.”

Villanueva and his team also do customized theme parties, such as an indoor campground barbeque complete with ‘smores or a taste of the Catskills, featuring old Jewish favorites such as kreplach, chopped liver and sweet & sour cabbage.

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Passed Desserts

Gone are the old-time Viennese tables or plated cake that often goes to waste. Passed mini desserts from an extensive handcrafted dessert menu keep the party going—and get eaten.

“The Viennese tables are gluttonous and wasteful, and no one wants to stop the party to sit down for a piece of cake,” said Villanueva. “Passing our mini desserts around lets everyone keep dancing or talking without that interruption. Plus, the mini desserts—like the endless cocktail hour—provide more variety and enable people to sample more kinds of desserts without the commitment to one slice of cake.”

His mini desserts include Oreo-crusted white chocolate cheesecakes with blackberry compote, brownie soufflés, three-berry tarts with streusel topping, chocolate Nutella almond rugalach, mini lava cakes, and milkshake shots. “Of course, it’s all about accommodating the clients, so we can also do a plated trio of mini desserts if the client wants that,” added Villanueva.

Smoked duck breast with foi grass, blackberry compote, and micro arugala

Seared Diver Scallop over creamy polenta, white truffle confit

What’s Old is New Again

Couples are selecting menu choices that have a rich history and bring drama and old-world flair to the wedding menu. Villanueva said these choices are often driven by older family members who are nostalgic for the classics; sometimes it’s a traditional dish that is a family favorite. He and his team are happy to accommodate these requests, adding a new spin to deliver the “wow.”

“We respect the classics but we add a fresh touch to these time-honored dishes,” said Villanueva. “Again, it’s all about delivering a new experience for guests, even with a more traditional dish.” Examples he cited are a dramatic six-foot-long baked Alaska with sparklers that elicited audible gasps when brought into the ballroom; and a Peking duck that has been updated with smoked duck breast to bring something new to this dish. Other examples of classical preparations are Beef Wellington, a delicious classic based on filet mignon, pate, mushroom duxxelle that is wrapped in puff pastry and served with Madeira sauce; Dover sole Meunière, another timeless classic dish of buttery Dover sole served with the classic Meunière sauce consisting of white wine, lemon, butter and fresh parsley; herbcrusted rack of lamb paired sweet pea risotto finished with a merlot demi-glace; and traditional ahi tuna crudo.

“It’s as much about the spectacle and being ‘out of the box’ as it is the comfort and flavor these classics afford our guests,” noted Villanueva. “I enjoy the challenges of reinventing our wedding menus because pushing my boundaries makes me a better chef.”

Three Berry Tarts

SPRING/SUMMER 2016

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MOMMY I’M RICH!

Learning to Invest Young is a Rite of Passage

By Mark Seruya

M

any religions observe rites of passage during the teenage years. In Judaism, the Bar/Bat Mitzvah marks the increasing spiritual and physical maturity of the child. The term literally means “son or daughter of the mitzvah” and signifies that the young teenager is now obliged to observe “mitzvahs,” or commands, and is eligible for public worship. Likewise, in many denominations of Christianity, a Confirmation sacrament usually is held in the early teenage years. The word refers to strengthening or deepening one's relationship with God and is the ritual by which the young person becomes an official member of the Church.

Many Hindu boys observe The Ceremony of the Sacred Thread, an ancient rite of passage into adolescence reserved for male members of the three upper castes, the Brahmins, Shatriyas, and Vaishyas. It too represents a rebirth or initiation into the religious community. In Islam, the 30-day religious fast of Ramadan is a special time for Muslim children. From the age of 12, all Muslims are required to observe the day-long fast from sunrise to sunset.

In North America, many kids of various religions often go on to celebrate a Sweet Sixteen.

However they are prescribed, and whether they are understated or lavish, in many of these coming-of-age traditions the teen may suddenly find him or herself on the receiving end of a significant number of gifts – and many of these may be monetary.

It’s an opportunity for the child to consider examining the concept of money and how to begin approaching it with maturity and wisdom.

While the parents are typically responsible for deciding what to do with a child’s money, it’s also the perfect time to help them become financially literate. Kids need to learn the fundamentals of fiscal responsibility — how to save, use credit cards, or even borrow money.

Some kids, when eyeing the pile of newly-accumulated checks, will immediately want to splurge on some coveted item – the latest electronic gadget or expensive designer piece. Perhaps a compromise, with a certain amount to spend and a wise plan for the balance of the total, is in order.

Plunking the money in the bank is certainly one possibility, as the importance of savings cannot be overstated. It’s a good time to help youngsters appreciate the beauty of 50 years’ worth of compounded interest, and how a relatively small amount of savings left untouched might help with a happy retirement. Reinforce the concept of putting aside savings on a regular basis.

Since the child is officially a teenager, he or she should open a checking account and even could be taught to use a credit card.

It’s also a good time to discuss taxes; kids should know that they can’t keep everything they earn.

As it does in many other religions, philanthropy figures prominently in the Bar Mitzvah tradition: many kids are required to embark on a charitable endeavor to coincide with their celebration, and are encouraged to donate a percentage of their gifts. Many households already teach kids to save a portion from every week’s allowance to help the needy; in any case, it’s never too soon to start encouraging them to give back. Allowing them the freedom to choose their own beneficiary organization is preferable; just ensure that the charity is reputable and transparent.

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For many of these kids, college only is four years away.

If their gift money is earmarked for college, and they don’t already have a 529 savings plan, it’s never too late – even if college is around the corner. Just remember to put the money in parents’ or grandparents’ names.

By college, kids should know their credit score. Employers conduct a credit report before hiring. Banks do before providing a loan. Home and car insurance rates are based on it.

Kids should understand building and maintaining credit. They should read their own bank statements and check for accuracy.

Pretty soon they should familiarize themselves with how to borrow: just as they seek bargains at the mall, and they should “shop” for money to borrow by comparing interest rates, prepayment penalties, variable vs. fixed rates, etcetera.

Along with the sudden lump of cash after a big celebration comes another possibility: investing. With careful planning and research, kids can have a say in the investment of their own money.

Investing in the stock market might be exciting for them; help select stocks in solid companies with an established history of performance…although past history is never a guarantee of future performance. An automatic dividend reinvestment program might be advisable. Alternatively, direct the company to send dividend checks directly to the child as a quarterly bonus.

Even if there is a substantial chunk of money to invest

at once, don’t forget the key to success: diversification. By this age, kids are adept at using the internet to research companies that may be good investments. Make sure they look at company reports on stock performance over time.

Their specific interests may make the process all the more interesting. Is he or she interested in technology, for example? Perhaps they should consider high-tech companies that manufacture electronics. Does the youngster love a particular sport? Perhaps sports apparel or equipment manufacturers should be considered. How about a particular food or drink? Find out how that food and beverage manufacturer is faring financially.

Of course, don’t forget other investment vehicles such as mutual funds, bonds, deposit certificates, treasury bills…even gold coins.

Becoming financially independent is a rite of passage in and of itself. It’s never too early to start learning how.

Wouldn’t it be grand to overhear a group of kids standing around the chocolate fountain, not talking about Justin Bieber or their upcoming soccer tryouts but rather immersed in a conversation about their investment strategies for both their long- and short-term futures?

Mark Seruya is a Financial Advisor with the Global Wealth Management Division of Morgan Stanley in Manhattan, and is a resident of Deal, NJ. He can be reached at 212-903-7699

Donna Moda Couture

With more than 25 years in the couture business, Owner, Anna Cianni uses her creativity and knowledge to take a vision and design and make it a reality for all of her customers. Designing exclusive, unique fashions for every special occasion has been the foundation of Donna Moda.

In collaboration with Fashion Designer & Director; Amera Faraj, whose background includes 9 years of technical design experience, Anna brings fresh and cutting edge design to the forefront of fashion in Bergen County and beyond.

201-594-0900 68 Westwood Avenue Westwood, NJ 07675 www.donnamodanj.com

SPRING/SUMMER 2016

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Dazzling Diamonds When choosing your wedding ring, it’s all about quality.

By Anna Henderson

I

n every facet of industry, there are different levels of workmanship. Whether it is auto mechanics, carpentry or tile installation, there is quality manufacturing and unfortunately for those driving the cars, living in the house or trying to enjoy their new bathroom, sub-par manufacturing. In the jewelry world, this is no exception.

“Unfortunately, as a society we have become obsessed with the lowest price. Sadly, I see too many people interested in the cheapest job, only to find out the hard way that the old saying, ‘You get what you pay for’ still holds true,” says Jeff LaViano, owner of LaViano Jewelers in Westwood.

If you’re willing to sacrifice the most important elements of jewelry manufacturing, such as the platinum-smith or set work, you may find yourself dealing with many hassles and constant aggravation, losing diamonds or having to constantly go tighten them, that’s why craftsmanship is such a crucial aspect when choosing a ring, even though you might be able to

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get more bling for less, a diamond lost isn’t worth anything but heartache.

“There is no way to fix sub-par manufacture work other than to build a new mounting, which will cost you twice as much in the long run,” LaViano says, a grave warning to those who attempt to choose carat quantity purely over quality.

It’s simple, when choosing a ring, always look for reputable and knowledgeable jewelers who have serviced the area for decades. Ask trusted friends and coworkers, or family members who have may have great experiences and relationships with those local jewelers. You might be able to get a great price for a ring online, but when it turns out it’s of shoddy quality, it’s going to be those local jewelers you turn to in order to help fix those issues.

Being smart now can save you time, energy, and lots of money in the long run. Not to mention you’ll have a beautiful ring everyone will love!

Disc Jockey Entertainment • Digital Photography • Cinematography Photo Booths • Custom Step and Repeats • Dancing on Clouds • Intelligent Lighting LED Screen Wall • Flat Screen TV’s • And more!

A luxury brand of entertainment since 1998

66 Route 17 North, Paramus, NJ • 973-546-5990 • www.magicmomentsnj.com

LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED! Choosing the Right Music for Your Big Event

By Scott Hornak

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In real estate the key may be, “location, location, location,” but when it comes to choosing just the right musical entertainment for your wedding, it’s definitely “research, research, research.”

Small band, big band, full orchestra or DJ? This is probably the first decision you’ll need to make. With the decision governed by factors such as the size of the venue, the atmosphere/mood you want to create and, naturally, your budget. Once you’ve settled on a direction here, your search can really begin.

Remember, the musicians or DJ you select must be able to play, and have a good working knowledge of, any and all styles of music that will be right for your particular event. The ability to effectively pace and perform on any given night, to react to the mood and energy of your guests without relying on a specific song order or inflexible set list, is truly an art. Bands and DJs that have mastered this are in great demand.

Checking out the reputation of a band, orchestra or DJ may take some time and effort but there are resources at your disposal to make weighing your options much easier. Perhaps you’ve recently been to a friend’s or family member’s special occasion and really enjoyed the music. Add that DJ or band to your list. Have you chosen a venue for your reception? Ask them for recommendations. They’ll certainly know which vendors previous wedding parties were happiest with – and which ones they weren’t so happy with. Consider interviewing a reputable entertainment agency that can provide guidance, and certainly ask around. Friends or co-workers may have been to weddings and been impressed by the music.

Try to limit your search to DJs or groups that have actual experience playing at big parties. Keep in mind that performing at a wedding reception comes with a unique set 20

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of logistical, pacing and “mood setting” challenges, and that simply being a great club act may not translate well.

Although hearing a band play live can be very helpful, of course, be a little wary of wedding showcases where you’re exposed to a large number of bands in a short period of time.

Attending a showcase may seem like an efficient approach, but seeing a band perform a predetermined and rehearsed set list for 15 or 20 minutes won’t really tell you much about how they’ll perform for four hours at your party. Once again, reputation is critical.

So, after making your initial pass, how do you start winnowing down to a “short list” of finalists leading? You can start with the Better Business Bureau, which might help you identify performers with a reputation - there’s that word again - for not consistently satisfying their clients. Reviews, like those found on sites like Weddingwire.com and TheKnot.com are excellent resources.

Finally, meet with the DJ, band representative or entertainment agency you’re considering. Are you on the same page? Do they act, and look, professional? Ask to see any pictures, video clips or demos they can show you.

So, it’s key to invest a little extra time and effort and take advantage of the tips and resources described here when choosing the entertainment for your special day. You’ll be confident that the band or DJ you decide on has the solid reputation for talent, reliability and experience that will help make your special occasion especially memorable.

Scott Hornak is CEO and co-founder of Craig Scott Entertainment, a full-service entertainment company representing top professional entertainers and musicians. He can be found at craigscott.com

For the Love of Wine

As wine becomes more casual, it’s time to think outside the bottle

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hether it’s relaxing at home, dining out at a restaurant or celebrating with friends and family, Americans are enjoying wine at a wider variety of occasions than ever before. In fact, 85 percent of frequent wine drinkers now believe that wine is equally appropriate for casual and formal settings alike.

Today’s attitudes and behaviors toward wine drinking were recently captured in the second Gallo Consumer Wine Trends Survey, commissioned by E. & J. Gallo Winery. The survey of 1,000 frequent wine drinkers found that 82 percent enjoy between one and five glasses per week, which they enjoy at a wide range of occasions.

“We are always glad to see Americans’ love of wine expand each year as they experiment with flavors, varietals and packaging formats,” said Stephanie Gallo, third generation family member and vice president of marketing at E. & J. Gallo Winery. “For more than 80 years, Gallo has strived for excellence and will continue its family tradition of crafting innovative wines that cater to Americans’ evolving wine preferences.”

A more casual approach to wine suggests that shoppers are more likely to try new wines across a range of prices. In fact, more than one-third of survey respondents classified themselves as a “wine adventurer,” while only 3 percent of those surveyed self-identified as “wine snobs.”

To learn more about the evolving wine culture, visit gallowinetrends.com.

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Exploring and Experimenting

More sipping occasions means more opportunities to try new wines. The top factors that inspire a frequent wine drinker to try something new are recommendations from friends, family members and coworkers. Additionally, 86 percent of wine drinkers would be encouraged by a server, bartender or sommelier recommendation, followed closely by a recommendation from a wine store employee.

Not surprisingly, millennials are more influenced by the digital world than older generations. Survey data shows that millennials are more likely to be encouraged to try a new wine if it is featured prominently and positively in the media or if it is recommended on social media.

Selecting your Sips

The occasion itself still influences the wine choice for many.

While wine drinkers identified Chardonnay as the most popular choice for casual get-togethers, Cabernet Sauvignon was most often the front-runner for formal environments.

At the same time, sparkling wines are breaking out of formal occasions and becoming more popular for everyday moments. Interest in Rosé is also expanding beyond the peak summer months of June, July and August as more wine drinkers reach for blush wines in April and September.

However, looks still matter in the wine aisle. Millennials are four times more likely than baby boomers to select a bottle of wine based on its label, frequently looking for personality

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

and originality. Baby Boomers, by contrast, look for region of origin and tasting notes on the label.

Thinking Inside the Box

Mirroring the changes in wine drinkers’ shopping habits, the wine industry is thinking “inside the box” these days. Boxed wine has evolved considerably in the minds of consumers, thanks in large part to its convenience. The extended freshness of boxed wine allows wine drinkers to enjoy it at their own pace and the box’s portability allows for easy transport to all types of occasions. In fact, 1 in 4 surveyed agree that boxed wine is best for large social gatherings and is becoming higher quality.

Wine in a can is a relatively new concept that more than one-fourth of frequent wine drinkers expressed interest in trying – particularly for outdoor excursions. Among fans of alternative packaging, outdoor events remained the primary occasion for the use of these products, which also include mini bottles and tetra packs.

“The increase in popularity of these new packaging options is undeniably making wine more portable, practical and possible to enjoy anywhere,” Gallo said. “A single-serve package, in particular, offers a convenient option for those who reluctantly grab a beer simply because it is easier.”

Overcoming Wine Fears

As wine culture becomes more approachable, common fears among wine drinkers are less prevalent. The survey found that fears, such as mispronouncing a wine’s name or being judged for wine choices, are still on the minds of some wine drinkers, but those who enjoy it regularly are not dramatically affected by these concerns.

“As an industry, we must continue working to remove

these barriers in order to nurture wine’s expansion into everyday occasions,” Gallo said. “By exploring the more emotional implications of wine culture and sharing these findings broadly, we hope to welcome more people into wine.”

Pairings for Every Occasion

When it comes to food and wine pairings, the proper match can exponentially improve the eating experience – no matter what the occasion. The key is to choose wines and foods that complement each other in their components, richness and textures. To help get you started, Gallo Family Vineyards recommends the following pairings: • Fresh fish: Complement garlic butter baked salmon or another favorite fish with a glass of Chardonnay for its rich fruit flavor and lush texture, or Sauvignon Blanc for a more crisp finish.

• Barbecue: Pair grilled items, such as shish kabobs, burgers or corn on the cob, with a Riesling for its vivid and sweet flavors.

• Red meat: Enhance the robust taste of roast beef or grilled steak with Cabernet Sauvignon for its black fruit and spice notes.

• Chicken: Serving an oven-roasted chicken with mediumbodied Pinot Noir will bring subtle flavors of cherry and sweet fruit.

• Dessert: Complement a slice of cheesecake, chocolate covered strawberry or chocolate chip cookie with Moscato. The light-bodied, refreshing flavors of peach, honey and ripe citrus are a perfect match.

• Pretty much anything: Rosé is often underappreciated when it comes to food pairings. From spicy Mexican to chicken salad, pecorino cheese and peach cobbler, it is an excellent option for dishes year-round.

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The To Do’s before the I Do’s Bridal Tips to Prepare for the Big Day

By Daria Amato

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he months leading up to your wedding are sure to be filled with excitement and stress about all of the things you need to do. You want to look radiant with glowing skin, and feel healthy in your body on your big day. So, you can’t afford to let your health fall by the wayside while the stress of hosting hundreds of family and friends weighs over you.

Months of planning culminate in a long, 10-12 hour day. Then, poof! You’re married! What you are left with is your memories and your photographs. The photographs will live on forever; they are the heirlooms you leave behind. That’s why it becomes so important to find the photographer who is right for you. Here are some tips on finding the person to capture your moments perfectly.

1. When looking for a wedding photographer, decide what style of photography you want as well as the finished product. Is it traditional, photojournalistic, illustrative, portraiture, high fashion or natural light? Ask prospective photographers to see their body of work. This will give you a great idea of whether their aesthetic matches yours.

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2. Once you’ve narrowed it down, begin communicating what you want to the photographer. What are your must have shots?

Convey your desires and expectations. If you don’t let them know, they will follow their own flow through the day, and you might not be pleased with the results.

3. Hire vendors you like, much like you’d choose friends. Choose the people who help bring your “day to life.” If you trust and enjoy them, they will help make your day more fun and less stressful.

4. Definitely have a fun photo day with your photographer. This is a great opportunity to get to know your photographer and how they work as well as getting you comfortable in front of the camera.

Now matter how great a photographer is, if you haven’t done your part in staying healthy throughout the stressful process, it’s going to show in the albums and framed photos above your mantle for years to come. That’s why it’s so critical that despite the many obstacles, you make sure to keep your wellness as a central focus. Here are some ways to stay healthy while you’re mind is going 1000 miles per hour.

1. Use your engagement to fuel your inspiration to be in your best health. Adopt the philosophy that it is a lifestyle you are choosing and you will be more likely to stick with it pre-wedding, post-wedding and dare I say pre-baby.

2. Aim to exercise daily. Do what you enjoy and mix it up. Try to hit the weights 1-2 days a week for sculpting and toning.

There are 3 types of physical activity: Endurance such as dancing, walking, cycling or swimming, flexibility such as golfing, yard work stretching or yoga, and strength such as climbing stairs, free weights, push-ups or Pilates.

3. Hydrate with water for amazing skin. Kick the soda, excessive caffeinated beverages and processed foods.

4. Acquire the nutritarian lifestyle. A nutritarian is a person who has a preference for foods that are high in vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals. This would be a diet rich in vegetables (especially dark leafy greens), fruits, nuts, seeds, onions, mushrooms, whole grains, beans, berries, high quality-grass fed-pasture raised organic meats and wild caught seafood.

Follow the 90/10 rule, 90% nutritarian and 10% simply livin’ and you’ll be on your way to great looks and great health!

Very few brides choose to celebrate their special day without a makeup artist. I spoke with makeup artist Cheryl Esposito to find out some great tips for choosing the artist that will make you shine.

1. Find the look that you want, be it Classic, Modern or Romantic. There’s a wealth of imagery online to help you get there, but realize that it is your gorgeous features that we look to enhance. Our job is to see your unique features and skin tone and translate the look you want that will bring out your natural beauty.

2. Ask to see images of other brides that the makeup artist worked on that are not Photoshopped. Ask a lot of questions.

A good makeup artist can work with any age, skin tone and style with their own acquired technique. Makeup needs to transfer from indoors to outdoors and last through out the day. Always do a trial! Just because you loved the way someone else's make up looked doesn't necessarily mean you and that artist are a good fit.

3. Touch-up essentials that every bride should have are lip-gloss, pressed or blot powder, tissues, blister block and Band-Aids.

And of course, can you even have a wedding without the wedding dress? A decision so stressful that there are TV shows produced just for highlighting the stress of choosing the dress, I spoke to Angel Rivera about choosing the perfect fit for you.

1. Brides should have an open mind when searching for their bridal gown. Don’t stick with one style. 80% of the time, brides choose something that they didn’t think they would like.

2. Bring your most trusted friend with you while shopping; you need an honest, reliable opinion. Ask the designer and store clerks for recommendations. When you find it, buy the dress you love. Don’t look back!

3. Have a bridal emergency pouch with a needle and thread, safety pins and shout pad. You just never know when those will unexpectedly come in handy.

Your preparations will pay off come your big day. Don’t sweat the small stuff and have a glorious, amazing and magical Wedding Day! Daria Amato is a Photographer and Health Coach. You can find her at transformativelivin.com SPRING/SUMMER 2016

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The Future Of

Wedding Planning

By Laura Petrocelli

Plan like a Pro using some of the wedding industry’s latest and greatest technology

Photo Courtesy of Restiano Photography

The wedding planning process has certainly evolved over the last couple of decades, and thanks to the influx of smartphone apps, social media, and other products and programs we are now able to be smarter, faster and more organized than ever before. It’s a digital day in age, and I wanted to dedicate this article to sharing some of my favorite tech tools of the trade!

Wunderlist:

I personally cannot live without making myself to-do lists for every aspect of my life, and love the Wunderlist App for my weddings and events in particular. You can create as many lists as you want, and have anyone you’d like sync up to any one in particular.

Planning a Bridal Shower? Create a Wunderlist and invite all the Bridesmaids to download the app and join the list, where you can now all add responsibilities with notes, photos and delegate each item accordingly. Each person can check off their designated items upon completion and everyone who is synched into the list will get a notification so nothing falls thru the cracks. There are also similar Apps like Evernote (free) and Awesome Note ($4), so take a look at each and see which one is best for you!

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Dream Weddings in the Park

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Instagram:

Sometimes finding good information or photos for certain unique and “off the grid” venue is like searching for a needle in a haystack. Many people use Instagram for their personal or business use but don’t realize how resourseful it can be with finding useful information and photos about different venues and vendors as well as tons of incredible wedding inspiration. If a wedding happened somewhere out there, there is a very good chance that someone #Hashtagged the venue on Instagram or tagged the location.

For example, we often work with a historical barn on Long Island called the George Weir Barn. They have done plenty of gorgeous weddings there, but since it’s not your typical advertised wedding venue, the photos online are slim pickins’. On the other hand, when you search #GeorgeWeirBarn on Instagram, you get to see all sorts of beautiful, candid photos of how the space was transformed by other couples and designers. It’s a great (free) tool to use for these reasons, and many more!

Paperless Post

Between the cost of printed invitations and postage, as well as time spent sending them out and gathering up-to-date mailing addresses, more and more couples are turning to Paperless Post. Many of our eco-friendly couples also love that there is not all the paper waste that comes along with sending printed invites that more often than not, end up in the garbage anyway. Paperless Post offers thousands of really beautiful designs, including exclusive lines from Oscar de la Renta, Vera Wang and Kate Spade.

The Paperless Post app makes tracking and organizing your RSVP’s easy, since it uploads the guest responses directly, saving you a step! Anyone who has planned a wedding before will tell you that the guest list, RSVP’s and seating arrangements can be one of the most stressful tasks that really cannot be passed off to anyone else for the most part. I’ve had many couples send Paperless Post Save the Dates, with a link asking for the recipient’s mailing address, which helps with some of the headache that can come with hunting people down. www.paperlesspost.com

21 Day Fix

If you’re planning to slim down a bit before the Big Day, be sure to do it the healthy way so it doesn’t come back to haunt you as soon as you let loose on your honeymoon! 21 Day Fix helps you design a customized workout and meal plan, with tons of great recipes, tips, workout videos, and other ideas that make meeting your goal easier and very organized. There are tons of fitness apps out there, but I am partial to this because of the layout, the privacy of your progress photos and information being on your own phone, and that the 21 day plan is realistic, fun and will jumpstart your health for the long term, instead of an unhealthy quick-fix.

Photo Courtesy of Golden Hour Studios

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Wedding Dash

NOW- if you need a mental siesta from all the planning and stress that comes with the territory, you can download an iPhone game/App called ‘Wedding Dash’. It doesn’t help you in any way plan your wedding, but everyone deserves to take a break once in a while. Be Warned- it’s fun and very addicting! If only planning a wedding was that easy…

WeddingHappy App for IOS:

Drumroll, Please!!!...WeddingHappy has officially claimed our “Best In Show” award, for being the most useful Full-Service wedding planning app- for now. Keep on track with your wedding vendors, budget, timeline, guest list, day-of details and more, without lugging around a giant “wedding planning” binder.

The App itself is free, but for $5.99 you can invite one person to sync up with your planning program, and for $18, you can invite up to 5 of your friends, family or vendors involved with setting up the Big Day. From here, you can delegate tasks for anyone in your team, where they can check off the items upon completion, so everyone is on the same page and knows what to do and when.

We have been recommending it to clients who love staying super organized and find the little reminders, the overall layout and functionality extremely helpful. If your budget doesn’t allow for a full-service wedding planner, this is the next best thing if you ask me. All your ducks can be in a row in the palm of your hand, and easily exported and printed to give out or e-mailed to anyone you need to. There are many other apps out there, but for now, I do feel that this is the best overall, for all the lovebirds out there looking to be one step ahead of the nuptial-planning game!

Love something that isn’t listed here? We would love to know what Apps you use for wedding planning. Drop us a line at info@coutureconceptsny.com and let us know what your preferred tool of the trade is.

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Planning the Perfect Party A child’s big day must make for a perfect celebration.

By Tessa Viole

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I

n the Jewish community, Mitzvahs are a big deal not just in the religious sense, but socially as well. Of course, these days, such an important step towards religious “adulthood” requires an amazing party afterwards. Many Mitzvahs are extremely over the top, rivaling some weddings, but some can be a bit more laid back. Throwing a great Mitzvah, much like a wedding, takes months of stressful planning. I spoke to Lisa Plant of Norwood, NJ to find out what it takes to throw the perfect Bergen County party.

For her daughter Jordan’s Bat Mitzvah this past February, Lisa went above and beyond to ensure all guests, young and old, had the time of their lives. Lisa, who custom makes home décor and clothing professionally, even chose to custom design both dresses Jordan would go on to wear on her special day. The clothing design didn’t just stop at Jordan’s dresses though. Lisa designed her own, as well as several of the guests’ dresses, too.

When planning any party, there are two types of people: The DIY’ers and the outsourcers. Needless to say, Lisa Plant was the former. With an eye for detail, Lisa wasn’t going to let just anyone plan her daughters Mitzvah, so besides a few trusted vendors, Lisa took matters into her own hands, designing most of the décor herself, though she admits, it did take a “creative toll.”

“Planning a Mitzvah is a lot of work. I think everyone agrees on that, but how many chances do you get to really plan a big bash like this,” Lisa says. “My husband created the scenery. I even created the pillows for the lounge areas and such. We make a great team. The experience of creating my daughter’s party has opened some doors for me to work on future parties as well,” Lisa says. “After my daughter’s party, the owners of The Rockleigh asked me to help them with their daughter’s Sweet 16!”

Although it was the first Mitzvah Lisa ever worked on, she loved the experience. After years of making camp clothing and various home décor pieces for private clients, she has definitely taken the experience of planning Jordan’s Bat Mitzvah as a potentially life altering event.

As with most parties, you have to start the planning somewhere. Typically, that’s the theme, which will determine décor, table settings, food, flowers, and sometimes, even entertainment.

For Jordan and Lisa, the theme was Broadway. “We tried to keep it really simple. There were plain white elegant flowers, and the place cards were tickets to various Broadway shows, with table centerpieces being the logo from that Broadway show,” Lisa explains. “The dance floor and lounge were divided by a city skyline set created by my husband, and Magic Moments helped us every step of the way to ensure the room looked incredible, and it did.”

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Broadway themed party. “A friend of mine prints all the billboards and pictures for Broadway shows,” Lisa explained.

“We asked if we could use a few and he gave us a huge Wicked picture as well as lending us about 15 more. Sal, the owner of Magic Moments, gave us more and more trusses to hang these posters up. Between Magic Moments, friends, family, and The Rockleigh, we had so much help with everything. I think sometimes people are afraid to ask for help or want to do it all on their own, but it’s great to know that these companies are really invested in our party, in us having a great experience with memorable moments.”

As Lisa will point out, throwing a party can be very overwhelming. Her advice: “Figure out what’s most important to you. Everything costs money, and people will start throwing different things at you trying to get you to buy them because “No party is great without it,” like T-shirts or hats and other nonsense. It all can add up very quick and be very expensive.

In the moment you might feel the pressure to splurge on everything. Figure out what’s most important to you and your family, and the small silly things will go by the wayside.”

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get a bit competitive. With everyone trying to out do each other, Lisa focused on small details that would go a long way in differentiating her party from the rest.

“We gave out sweatshirts to every boy and girl as favors.

Of course, the boys got a different one than the girls, which, we now know was a small detail that went a long way. We also left a deck of cards and bottles of water in a gift bag in every guest’s car. It was just a small gesture that shows we were truly honored they attended.”

As much as the day is about the Bat Mitzvah girl, the party is really about the guests, too. Although it was a beautiful night, Lisa ensured that there were blankets and heat lamps at their outdoor Nutella waffle bar to make sure guests were always comfortable. Once again, small details that go a long way.

As a lasting note, I asked Lisa what every Bar Mitzvah included. We first began speaking about budget, how budget shouldn’t ever determine the greatness of a party. Yes, some parties will have more than others, but that won’t always make it a better affair. After jokingly saying any Mitzvah definitely needs a candy buffet, Lisa looked at me and muttered the simple truth: “Every party just needs love.”

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Continued from page 32

THE DETAILS:

Invites: Black Swift Creative Photography & Cinematography: Magic Moments Entertainment: Magic Moments, Shuman Roy and Ronnie Shingelo Flowers: Broderick Flowers Cake: A Little Cake Hair Salon & Stylist: Salon Niki, Laura Chan Makeup: Salon Niki, April Lucious Additional Vendors: King Displays, MT Embroidery and Promotions, Mercury Sports, JB Lighting Productions Favors: Sweatshirts

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The Wedding of Maria Lauretta and John Chomenko

By Tara DeLorenzo

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While it may not have been love at first sight for newlyweds Maria Lauretta and John Chomenko, their romance and their love was baked full of delightful surprises.

The couple met at Bottagra Restaurant in 2009, where they both worked as pastry chefs. Soon after starting as an intern under John’s supervision, a friendship flourished, and the two began dating four years after Maria’s internship.

“To be quite honest, when I first met him and interned with him, I was not very fond of him,” Maria said laughing. “I thought he was a ‘know-it-all’ and a little arrogant. As I got to know him better though, clearly that wasn't the case at all, and I soon began to see the real John, which I ultimately ended up falling in love with.”

The couple had been dating for just over a year when John decided to sweeten their relationship with a proposal. When his shift ended on August 15, 2014, John went to visit Maria at her parent’s home. When Maria greeted him at the door, he led her to their favorite spot underneath the tree where they had officially started their relationship in May of 2013. There, John went down on one knee and asked Maria to be his wife. Maria, who was so overwhelmed with excitement, could barely answer, so John now claims he asked three times before she finally said “yes.” After, the two went back into the house to celebrate with Maria’s family.

“His proposal was so perfect, simple yet so romantic, and everything I could have ever wanted,” Maria said. “The only thing I had ever told John about what I wished for in a wedding proposal was to be completely surprised and not have clue when it would happen, and he definitely succeeded.”

Maria already had been sure for a while that John was the one for her. “I do not want to sound cliché or anything, but it really is true when people say ‘You just know when he’s the one,’” she said. “For me, what made me so certain was the fact that he was unlike anyone I had ever dated before. He was so loving, caring and romantic, and he always had a calming sense about him that made me feel safe. From the first day we started dating and every day after, we have always been very honest with each other—whether good or bad. We pride ourselves on making sure we have open communication because it is probably the most important part of having a healthy, happy, loving and lasting relationship.”

From the moment Maria said yes, it seemed the planning for the wedding simply fell into place for the couple. With their generous friends and family, the only vendor the couple had to search for was for their limo company. For all of their other vendors, there was a friend or family member willing to extend their services to either volunteer their business or book the vendor. In fact, the groom’s suit was designed by Sal Lauretta, Maria’s father.

It seemed the only challenge this couple had to face was getting their RSVPs back on time from their many guests.

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feeling,” Maria said. “We truly felt very fortunate to have the best of the best in all aspects of our wedding. Every single one of our vendors went above and beyond for us and it showed in every aspect. They are all very talented and highly skilled professionals who leave no detail left unturned. It was true perfection at its finest.”

The couple married at St. Anthony Church in Hawthorne, New Jersey, on October 18, 2015, where Maria walked down the aisle in a Sophia Tolli fit-and-flare gown. The dress itself, which Maria found at Bijou Bridal in Paramus, was satin with a lace overlay that echoed the elegance and classic elements of the wedding. To add more detailing, Maria added a sparkling belt, and for the church ceremony, she also added a cathedral-length veil. To Maria, this dress was as made for her as John was.

“I only went to two different bridal salons and probably only tried on 10 dresses total,” she said. “I always knew what kind of style wedding dress I wanted, but made a promise to myself to try on a bunch of different styles just to be certain there wasn't

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something I was missing. When I put on the wedding dress for the first time, I just knew it was my dress. I felt very different in it then I had in other dresses I tried on. I felt beautiful. It was everything I had always wanted and envisioned myself wearing.”

Even with all the ease of vendors and the search of the dress, the simplest choice the couple made was the reception location: The Venetian in Garfield, New Jersey.

“From the first moment we started planning our wedding, the venue was one decision we both felt the same about—we never even looked at other venues,” Maria said. “In our opinion, there is no better place in Northern New Jersey to have a wedding reception. It is beautiful inside and out and even more importantly the food is delicious. For us, there was no reason to look elsewhere.”

While there was no theme to the celebration, Maria and John wanted to keep their wedding traditional and elegant. The only tradition the couple decided against was the throwing of the garter belt or bouquet. Instead, they kept the focus on the great

music, good food and drinks, dancing and, of course, dessert.

Another important, personalized aspect they made sure to include was a photo slideshow that played through dinner and featured pictures of both family and friends, showing a glimpse of their lives growing up and their new lives together.

Every moment, including their first dance where their DJ Sal Rametta sang their wedding song as they danced—one of the bride’s favorite moments— perfectly matched the dream wedding that they baked up together.

There wasn't one thing that we weren’t happy with,” Maria said. “In our eyes, our wedding was truly perfect. We loved how everything turned out and how everything looked once it all came together. We loved all the attention to details. If I had to pick, I would say my favorite things from our wedding were our breathtaking flower bouquets, our over-the-top, larger-thanlife centerpieces that took three people to assemble each and our five-tier custom wedding cake with sugar flowers that was so beautifully and elegantly decorated to match our wedding

invitation. We were truly blessed.”

As the wedding came to a close, the couple went jet setting off to Italy, where they spent two weeks visiting Sorrento, Capri, Positano and Rome.

Looking to the future, they are excited for what is to come.

“We look forward to living a very happy life filled with lots of love, memories and eventually, babies!” Maria said.

To future brides, Maria advises they take everything in stride as they plan for their own big day.

“I highly suggest, if possible, not working everyday the week before your wedding. There is so much to get done that can't be done until the very end, and it can definitely become overwhelming and stressful,” Maria said. “My only advice for future brides is do not procrastinate, do everything you can to stay organized and not stress about the smallest details because realistically, the day of your wedding, those little things don’t matter at all.”

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THE DETAILS:

Invites: The Write Occasion Photography & Cinematography: Studio Uno Photography & Video Entertainment: iReserve Entertainment Flowers: Creations by Fran Cake: Sweet Sisters Cakes Gown: Sophia Tolli, Bijou Bridal Suit: Sal Lauretta for Men Hair Salon & Stylist: Bellezza Salon & Spa, Kimberly Ten Hoeve Makeup: Kristin Ten Hoeve Jeweler: Alfred Jewelers Favors: Chocolate Etc.

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CELEBRATIO N S

The Wedding of Lisa DeMatteo and Russell Young

By Megan Montemarano

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Everyone dreams of a happily ever after— finding that certain someone who completes you and can always add a little sparkle to each day, no matter how brilliant it may already be. For Upper Saddle River native Lisa DeMatteo, this seemingly magical figment of the imagination came true on the glistening shores of Manasquan Beach at a time when she least expected it.

It was a summer weekend she’ll never forget. A mere year out of college, Lisa and her friends planned a mini reunion at her family’s Jersey Shore escape. It was during a beach party that she met Russell Young, also from Hoboken with a Manasquan beach house down the street and a ton of mutual friends.

Naturally, Russell and Lisa instantly hit it off, and have not spent a weekend apart since.

“It’s funny—I remember my mom saying that I was going to meet the man of my dreams that summer,” Lisa recalls. “I was a year out of college—I wasn’t expecting to fall in love.” But fall in love she did. It will be seven years now this Memorial Day since Mr. and Mrs. Russell Young first met, and it’s been nothing but what Lisa describes as “magical” ever since.

The proposal took place at The Point, a luxurious, adults-only resort set on the shoreline of scenic Saranac Lake, New York.

“Russell has always been very spontaneous,” says Lisa. “But when he suddenly asked me to pack up my bags for a getaway to the Adirondacks just a few days before Christmas, I had a feeling this might be it.” Lisa recounts the journey there as an experience in and of itself, as the first snowfall of the season dressed the winding mountain roads in white. “We were in the middle of nowhere, and every part of it was so breathtakingly beautiful.”

The resort is known for catering to each individual guest, gathering information on specific interests beforehand in order to present a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience sheer, natural beauty while surrounded by all of your favorite things. In Lisa’s case, Russell divulged her passion for cooking and even her favorite board game to help the resort organize personal activities for them to do throughout their stay. From hiking through the woods with luxurious bars SPRING/SUMMER 2016

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set up along the way, to boat houses and romantic cabins fully stocked with vintage wines and white-gloved service, the couple was living a perfect dream. “I absolutely love to cook, and when I realized they even flew in a professional chef from France to teach me some recipes, I was simply overwhelmed,” says Lisa.

Her exuberance continued during a romantic, private dinner in their own separate cabin on the lake—the ideal spot for that long-anticipated question that would change their lives forever. “I remember thinking, this is it, this has to be it.” Russell proceeded to ask her to dance, whispering words of his undying devotion and love into her ear. It was when he decided to sit down for dessert and champagne instead of get down on one knee, that Lisa began to second-guess her intuition. “I was so mad,” explains Lisa, looking back on the moment now with a smile. “I truly thought he was going to ask me right then and there, and when he didn’t, I was shocked once again, but Russell never fails to surprise me.” It was then that Lisa noticed a diamond ring set atop the decadent truffles on her plate, and Russell did get down on one knee. “When I saw the glint of diamond before me and the look in Russell’s eyes, I melted.”

The time after the proposal was a whirlwind of celebration and preparation for the big day. Lisa’s mother Mary took on

most of the planning, from the engagement party overlooking the New York City skyline and Chanel-themed bridal shower at Il Villagio, to the exquisite wedding invitations, florist, photographer and all else in between. “Picking my gown was an incredible experience,” continues Lisa. “We went to Bridal Reflections in NYC, and got an appointment to meet and work with Galia Lahav, a world-renowned designer who custom-made my dress.” The process took 13 months to complete in Israel, and the end result was nothing short of fabulous.

And so, on April 11th, 2015, a sunny, glorious day amid weeks of dismal rain, Lisa put on this very dress to walk towards her future, adding more dazzling beauty to an already breathtaking scene. “When I tapped Russell’s shoulder for ‘the reveal’ and he turned around, it all became more real,” says Lisa. “It was just so magical it seemed almost surreal, but the best part is, this magical moment was my life.” Both the ceremony and wedding took place at The Grove in Cedar Grove, NJ, chosen due to its utmost standard of excellence, accommodations, lavish style and service. The venue has three ballrooms, and each followed the decorative theme of shimmering elegance for the occasion. “Getting ready was surprisingly calm and relaxing,” explains Lisa.

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“We had bridal suites overlooking where the reception would take place. It was incredible to see every detail I had only before envisioned come to life right before my very eyes.”

When every flawless detail was finally set in place, Lisa made her dramatic entrance down a grand staircase leading to a candlelit room full of awestruck friends, family and of course, the love of her life clad in his tux. She could feel every ounce of love in the room. “I didn’t even cry—there was nothing but happiness all around.”

Following the cocktail hour, the reception featured five white-gloved wait staff per table, a custom-made love seat with crystals and diamonds for the newly married couple, a 14-piece band, DJ and even a Frank Sinatra impersonator, who sang Lisa and Russell’s first dance song, “The Summer Wind.” At the end of the song, fireworks exploded around them, illuminating the blissful night. Fireworks were also set off in the doorway of the room leading to the luxurious Venetian hour, which offered custom drinks and fondue among chic elegance. “The whole night was like a scene straight out of the movie ‘The Wedding Planner.’ Everything was absolutely perfect.” It was an incredible evening Lisa wished never had to end, but also one that marked the start of something even greater—her new life with Russell.

For their honeymoon, Lisa and Russell escaped to Greece, where they visited Mykonos and Santorini. In Mykonos, the two fed off energy of the city, attending beach parties, testing out their skills on ATVs and enjoying the vivid nightlife scene. Santorini, on the other hand, was much more tranquil with unparalleled views and a romantic atmosphere. “I’ve traveled so many places in my lifetime, and Santorini is unlike anywhere else,” describes Lisa. “As I relaxed in our private pool overlooking the gorgeous ocean, I thought to myself, if this is what heaven looks like, I want to go.” While here, Lisa and Russell swam in volcanic sulfur water, spent time on the beach and savored the feeling of being cut off from their hectic work schedules and the rest of the world.

Today, Lisa and Russell continue to grow in love as they treasure their new life together. “We appreciate each other,” says Lisa. “We appreciate every moment and always count our blessings.” When asked if her wedding was everything she had ever dreamed of, Lisa laughed, adding that all the chapters of her “happily ever after” love story with Russell, from the moment they first met to her life right now, was beyond her wildest dreams. “Russell treats me like a princess every moment of every day, and I can only hope that he thinks I treat him like a king.”

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THE DETAILS:

Invites: Paper Works and Events Photography & Cinematography: Gabelli Studio Entertainment: Craig Scott Entertainment Flowers: Crest Florist Cake: Palermo’s Fireworks: Abraham Fireworks

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Gown: Galia Lahav Suit: Enzo Custom Clothiers Hair Salon & Stylist: Riccio Salon, Jenna Cullere Makeup: Dina’s Kiss and Makeup, Dina Racciatti Jeweler: La Mirage Jewelers Favors: A donation in honor of each guest to Vinnie’s Smile Fund SPRING/SUMMER 2016

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The Wedding of Nikki Luppino and Will Benitez

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after meeting in middle school in 7th grade, nikki and will didn’t start dating until their senior year of high school, in 2002. the fireworks never stopped, and their fairy tale wedding took place at the estate at florentine gardens on july 4th of 2015.

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Continued from page 50

THE PROPOSAL (AS TOLD BY NIKKI) We were “first” engaged in 2008 in Rockefeller center at Christmas time after Will finished his boot camp training for the Army.

Unfortunately, we broke it off in 2012 after the Army had kept us apart for years and we started going our separate way. When we reconnected in 2014, we knew we didn’t want to wait long to get married. We booked our date and posted a video of us singing Love is an Open Door on Youtube and shared it with all of our family and friends on Facebook which was a huge hit!

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THE DETAILS:

Invites: Wedding Paper Divas Photography: Stark Studio Cinematography: Abella Studios Entertainment: Steppin’ Out (band with DJ) Flowers: Petals Premiere

Cake: Palermo’s Bakery Gown & Suit: European Bridal Hair & Makeup: Model Bride Jeweler: VK Jewelers at the Jewelry Exchange Edgewater Favors: Picture frames for photo booth pictures Honeymoon: St. Lucia

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The Wedding of Alina Leshiner & Peter DeCicco Written By Natalie Zisa

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When girls dream about their wedding day, it’s supposed to be nothing short of perfection.

For Alina Leshiner, there’s no other way to describe it. The owner of Ridgewood’s Suite 201, Alina married the love of her life Peter, owner of DeCicco Acupuncture, on November 14th, 2015.

At the time of their engagement, the couple had been together for six years. While spending the weekend in New Hope, Pennsylvania, Peter popped the question. The couple had just been to a family party and everyone kept talking about their wedding, the one that wasn’t even scheduled to happen yet, so when Peter did propose, Alina was pleasantly surprised.

“I’m not an emotional person, but I cried,” adds Alina.

From the beginning of her engagement, she began imagining what she wanted her wedding to be like. One thing was for sure: she knew that she wanted it to be different. She described her venue of choice as “something really clean looking.” They originally booked their wedding at a rooftop loft in New York City, but ultimately it wasn’t ideal for their 250 guests. This last minute change led them to the Greentree Country Club in Westchester, NY. “The second we walked in, that was it, it was almost better than the original place,” says Alina of Greentree.

The ceremony also took place at Greentree and it was a beautiful mix of traditions from both Alina’s Jewish religion and Peter’s Greek ethnicity.

It was the decorators, Magic Décor, that made the ceremony everything that it was.

“It would not have been nearly as pretty if it wasn’t for them,” says Alina.

Having the right vendors is what helped her stay calm throughout the stressful planning process. Alina had a specific vision, but just needed it to come to life. The invitations from Jaynee’s Party in Englewood Cliffs and the flowers from Westchester Florists were also a big part of completing the sophisticated look Alina desired, from the black and white color scheme to the floral accents on her veil and even on the cake.

“Knowing what you want is one thing. Having the right people to execute it is the key,” advises Alina.

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Even with the last minute venue change, something that most brides would freak out about, Alina wasn’t stressed.

Since the moment she got engaged, she knew what she wanted and she didn’t let other people’s opinion sway her in a different direction. If anything, Peter was the most involved out of her family and friends. While they took their parents to the tastings and her mom to the florist, he went to every venue appointment. Even the ones he didn’t attend, he always kept updated on her decisions.

Alina’s perfectionist personality, mostly reserved throughout the planning process, was directed at the dresses.

Not even for her own, but those of the bridesmaids. Alina was in good hands when she picked out her wedding dress at the famed Kleinfeld’s in New York. After trying on just five dresses, she found the perfect one. Even with her background in fashion, she didn’t have her sights set on any specific designer, but the dress she chose was a Pnina Tornai.

As for the bridesmaids’ dresses, Alina was thrown for a loop. The dress she originally wanted was discontinued, which meant she only had eight dresses for a bridal party of 14. For this, she put her fashion knowledge to the test 56

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and experimented with different styles. Staying within the color scheme, she ended up with three different unique and beautiful looks.

“I just needed to be obsessed with the pictures,” explains Alina while determining how to handle the bridesmaid dress crisis. Her bridal party was not consulted on this one, although it’s safe to assume she had their trust.

Even after the minor stresses that the couple encountered while planning their wedding, there is nothing Alina would change. With a DJ, a band, and an orchestra, everyone at the wedding was on the dance floor at one point or another.

“Everybody said it was the greatest wedding they had been to. It was really fun and genuine. We didn’t try to impress or outdo anybody. We just did what felt right to us and what we wanted to. That’s why I didn’t want that many opinions because I just wanted to do what made us happy.”

As someone who was barely stressed during her engagement, Alina did have a few final words of wisdom for those planning their special day: “Just have fun with it. You’re taking away from yourself and the experience by stressing out.

In the end, it always all works out and it’s the best day.”

THE DETAILS:

Invites: Jaynee’s Party Photography: Leandro Da Silva Photography Cinematography: Iris Cinematics Entertainment: Bud Maltin Metropolitan Music Flowers: Westchester Floral Decorators Chuppah: Magic Decor Cake: Greentree Country Club + Westchester Floral Gown: Pnina Tornai Suit: Biltmore Tuxedo Hair Salon & Stylist: Julien Farel Salon, Keith Axberg Makeup: Nicole Kasak Favors: French Macaroons, La Promenade Honeymoon: Turks and Caicos, Grace Bay SPRING/SUMMER 2016

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the wedding of lori biroc and douglas guido

lori and douglas first met in 2012 while working at the bergen county justice center for different agencies, where they’d see each other in passing or in meetings. both divorcees with children in college, they soon found they had a lot in common. in october of 2015, lori and douglas got hitched in a beautiful ceremony at stony hill inn in hackensack.

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THE PROPOSAL (AS TOLD BY LORI)

In February of 2015, after Doug retired from the Sheriff’s Department, we purchased a second home in Delray Beach, Florida. After renovating the house together for several months, we were enjoying the sunset at the beach in July. Cocktails in hand, I still remember how romantic it was. Then, all of a sudden, Doug proposed, and I ecstatically said “yes!” We called our children from the beach, and couldn’t wait to begin the new chapter in our lives together.

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THE DETAILS:

Invites: Vista Print Photography: Chris Horst Photography Entertainment: Main Source DJs Flowers: The Florist Garden Cake: Palermo’s Gown: Demetrios Suit: Yves Saint Laurent Hair: Eric Alt Salons, Eric Altomare Makeup: Michelle Elise Artistry Jeweler: Jewels of Paris Honeymoon: The Reserve at Paradisus, Dominican Republic

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EXPECT EXCELLENCE IN E V E R Y D E TA I L

For a truly spectacular event, look no further than the Teaneck Marriott at Glenpointe. Elegance, sophistication, and personalized service harmoniously blend to make your evening an affair to remember. Our creative and knowledgeable Sales & Events team can easily guide you through the entire process, whether it be a unique cultural or ethnic flair, a gourmet dining experience, or anything special you might have your heart set on.

Conveniently located 15 minutes from NYC and Newark Airport, you’ll find over 26,500 square feet of newly renovated event space, perfect for hosting up to 1000 guests and 351 newly renovated guest rooms. Indulge in the authentic Italian flavors at recently renovated Pancetta, sip fine wines and craft beer at Wine Bar or unwind with a massage at our on-site spa. With elegant spaces, custom catering and personalized service, we’ll take your wish list and transform it into an event to remember.

CALL 201.836.0600 AND ASK FOR OUR SALES & CATERING OFFICE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PLANNING YOUR DREAM SOIREE TODAY.

TEANECK MARRIOTT AT GLENPOINTE 100 FRANK W BURR BLVD, TEANECK, NJ 07666 201.836.0600 MARRIOTT.COM/EWRGP

© 2014 Marriott International, Inc.

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while working for her family’s waste management business, christina met mike, who was in the same business and would stop by to chat with christina’s father. once christina caught his eye, he began stopping by more often, bringing christina lunch and all of her favorite things, going out of the way to make her happy. eventually, mike asked christina out. in october of 2015, the beautiful couple tied the knot at st. gabriel’s church, culminating in a party for the ages at westmount country club. christina and mike are now partners in their own waste management company.

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THE DETAILS:

Invites: Wedding Paper Divas Photography: Tom Harmon Photography Entertainment: RocAway Co. Flowers: Atlas Floral Cake: Palermo’s Gown: Lazaro Suit: Biltmore Tuxedo Jeweler: John Pierre Jewelers Favors: Godiva Chocolate

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THE PROPOSAL

(AS TOLD BY CHRISTINA) We had plans to go out to dinner with our friends in Jersey City and we parked in a parking garage near the restaurant. We started walking down the street, and out of nowhere, one of our garbage trucks turns the corner with a huge sign on it saying “Christina will you marry me?” Mike got down on one knee with a beautiful cushion cut engagement ring and of course I said yes. Then we walked to Batello’s where I thought it was just the friends we were meeting for dinner and instead it was all of our close friends and family who surprised me in a private room. It was a perfect, complete surprise engagement.

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THE WEDDING OF CASSANDRA DERIAN AND KEVIN MONE

after meeting at a backyard bbq in the summer of 2010, cassandra and kevin’s relationship really heated up. fast forward to september of 2015, and cassandra and kevin said their “i do’s” at nanina’s in the park in belleville in a beautiful fall ceremony flowing with endless champagne.

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THE PROPOSAL

(AS TOLD BY CASSANDRA) Christmas Eve has a very special meaning to me and my family, in honor of my late grandmother Jini who passed away on that day in 2010. After a special brunch at the Boathouse on Christmas Eve in 2013, Kevin and I took a walk through Central Park, where Kevin found a magical gazebo called “A Tree House for Dreaming”. There on the “Madonna’s Bench,” he popped the question, and the rest is beautiful history.

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THE DETAILS:

Invites: Whimsy B Paperie Photography & Cinematography: Alex Kaplan Photography Entertainment: Premier Entertainment Flowers: Santos Florist

Cake: A Little Cake Gown: Vera Wang Suit: Ralph Lauren Hair & Makeup: Amazing Face, Donna Spinelli Jeweler: Heart of Gold Cigar Roller: Fume Cigar Shop

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THE WEDDING OF LISA MARIE VUONO AND THOMAS PICILLO

tommy, a shy freshman, first saw lisa, a senior, his first week at montclair kimberley academy.intimidated by this beautiful older girl, tommy hardly spoke to lisa until his sophomore year. after three years of close friendship, tommy finally gathered the courage to ask lisa on a date. lisa quickly fell in love with tommy and his family while tommy was making himself at home in the vuono household. the wildly in love couple said their “i do’s” at the park savoy in florham park in october of 2015.

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THE DETAILS:

Invites: Cybill Conklin and John Ferraro Photography & Cinematography: Milton Gil Photography Entertainment: Unforgettable DJs / Chris Garrow Flowers: Crest Florist Cake: Palermo’s Gown: Stephen Yearick Suit: Tommy Hilfiger Makeup: Gail Freeman, Doria Szymanowski Jeweler: West Orange Jeweler Favors: Mini wine bottles by Theresa and Frank Vuono Honeymoon: Orlando, Florida

THE PROPOSAL

While enjoying the scenic vineyards of Napa Valley, Lisa and Tommy had finished up an early tasting and settled down for a picnic in the wine fields. After discussing future plans, Lisa asked Tommy to “pass the chocolate,” to which he responded, “only if you promise to spend the rest of your life with me.” Upon hearing this, Lisa simply smiled and said “put that ring on!”

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Continued on page 76

inning W d r a w A Dining o c s e r F Al ay!

opening in

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Continued from page 74

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DR. BRUCE G. FREUND

PROVIDING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN DENTAL, COSMETIC & MEDICAL ANTI-AGING PROCEDURES INCLUDING FACIAL FILLERS | BOTOX/DYSPORT/XEOMIN | ULTHERAPY | COOLSCULPTING LA SE R TRE ATME N TS | SKI N C A R E T R E AT M E N T S | A C UP UN C T UR E NUTRITION COUNSELING | INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE & WOMEN’S HEALTH | PERMANENT MAKEUP

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CELEBRATIO N S

the engagement party of jessica panicucci and christopher miras and michele panicucci and anthony bizeta after getting engaged a day apart in munich, germany during oktoberfest, the paniccuci sisters and their significant others took over the zeppelin hall beer garden this past march in jersey city for a unique engagement celebration complete with lederhosen, pretzels, and all the beer you could drink.

Anthony Bizeta, Michele, Melissa and Jessica Panicucci, Christopher Miras

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THE DETAILS

Invites: Unleashed Creative Studio Photography: Diana Colapietro Flowers: Shop Rite + custom mason jars

Cake: Zeppelin Hall Beer Garden Favors: Beer Steins Hair: Craft + Theory Hair Studio, Jessica Thorne Makeup: Gretchen Calcutta

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victoria’s first communion on may 3rd, 2015, victoria got the party started at bibi’z in westwood, celebrating her first communion with close family and friends.

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Continued on page 83

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THE DETAILS:

Party Planner: Gena DeVirgilio (Mother) Photography & Cinematography: Gena DeVirgilio & Dina D’Orio Entertainment: DJ Ronald Gaither Dress: Paula Varsalona Cake: Sandra’s Cakes & Shop Rite Favors: Lindt chocolate truffles

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atches & Jewelry W st ne Fi e th of rs le ea D ed iz or Auth

VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT www.collectionltd.com FIND US ON FACEBOOK AT www.facebook.com/TimepieceCollection

The Event of a Lifetime

Celebrate your dreams in our elegant ballroom and stately lobby, set amidst lavish gardens and the historic homes of Rockleigh.

Our unsurpassed personal service and custom menus enhance the magic of your wedding day.

26 Paris Avenue • Rockleigh, New Jersey 07647 • Tel. 201-768-7171 • www.therockleigh.net