Real Weddings
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The Beach Wedding of Her Dreams Come True

Posted on November 01, 2024 by New Jersey Bride

Their Story

Lauren and William wed on April 28, 2023 at ICONA Avalon. They initially met at the school where they both work.

Billy Michels

The Proposal

The couple got engaged on Christmas Day 2021.

Details of the Day

The couple had a lovely beach ceremony. “I had dreamed of a beach wedding since I was a little girl,” says Lauren. “It almost didn’t happen as if was a very rainy weekend, but miraculously it cleared up before the ceremony.” Her adult male cousins served as the “flower men.”

Billy Michels

A fun touch? Lauren attended Montclair State University and her college mascot, Rocky the Red Hawk, attended the wedding.

Billy Michels

Choosing the Venue

ICONA Avalon provided the perfect location for a beach wedding, with its “very coastal” vibe, says Lauren.

Billy Michels

Favorite Moments

“I loved walking down the aisle, the flower men, having my cousin officiate, Rocky making an appearance, our first dance, and at the end everyone gathered around and sang/danced to ‘Love Story’ by Taylor Swift,” says Lauren.

Billy Michels

Detail They Couldn’t Live Without

Their beach ceremony and photos.

Billy Michels

Advice for Other Couples

“Enjoy the day and take a second for yourself during the day of the wedding. Bring that bride energy!  Prior to the wedding, get a wedding planner if it’s in your budget. Create a new email address just for all things wedding related. Number the back of invites to correspond to peoples names in a spreadsheet; I was surprised how many people did not put their names on their RSVPs,” says Lauren.

Billy Michels

Honeymoon

Lauren and William spent their honeymoon at Sandals Royal Bahamian.

Billy Michels

the details

Reception Location

ICONA Avalon

Photographer

Billy Michels

Officiant

Russ Adams (bride's cousin)

Bride’s Gown

Essence of Austraila

+ more