At Marissa’s 15th birthday party, she didn’t realize she’d received the best present of all: the first encounter with her future husband! But years later, she and John tied the knot in a magical winter-themed wedding on December 19, 2022.
Marissa dazzled in an A-line gown with long illusion sleeves, a V neckline, and a leaf motif overlay. She accessorized with a crystal necklace and a hip-length veil. Her bouquet included white flowers, pine cones, pine boughs, and other greenery. Her three bridesmaids wore forest green, one-shoulder, full-length velvet dresses. They carried smaller versions of the bride’s bouquet.
John got married in a black tuxedo with a white vest, white shirt, white bow tie, white pocket square, and mini bouquet boutonniere. His three groomsmen wore black tuxedos with black vests, white shirts, black bow ties, black pocket squares, and mini bouquet boutonnieres.
John broke a glass at the end of the ceremony in keeping with Jewish tradition. A live painter captured the outdoor ceremony, and guests were given blankets to keep warm.
Next, attendees sat down to a meal that included caprese salad, filet mignon, Atlantic salmon, herb-roasted red potatoes, and fresh green beans. There was also a hot cocoa table, and guests were given mini bundt cakes as they left the reception.
In the toasts, the best man spoke about his long friendship with the newlyweds. The maid of honor, Marissa’s sister, recounted how John used to tutor her in high school. John’s father talked about the newlyweds’ love story and how Marissa has already been a member of their family for a long time. Marissa’s father thanked John’s parents for raising him well, and spoke about how he’s not losing a daughter, but gaining a son.
John and Marissa’s first dance as man and wife was to “Bless the Broken Road” by Rascal Flatts. Marissa and her father danced to “Butterfly Kisses” by Bob Carlisle. John and his mother danced to “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. The anniversary dance was “Moon River” by Andy Williams. Other wedding fun included the tradition hora dance, the shoe game, and a date night idea jar that guests were encouraged to contribute to.
The three-tier wedding cake was done in a white naked frosting design. Red ribbons were placed along the bottom of each tier, and the cake was decorated with roses, pinecones, and greenery. Atop the cake were bride and groom penguin figurines and an ornament with the couple’s last name.
The newlyweds left their wedding under the signature sparkler exit.
We wish them a long and happy life together!
Photography By: Leslie Ann Photography