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A Gothic-Inspired Fall Wedding at Stone House

Posted on February 06, 2025 by New Jersey Bride

Diana and Dan got married at the Stone House at Stirling Ridge on September 29, 2023.

The Proposal 

Dan’s version: The proposal was all I had imagined, including all the stress that accompanied the lead up. For the proposal we did a little “staycation” in Jersey City. We spent the day exploring the city, getting coffee and looking out over the water.

A gothic-inspired wedding.
Bri Johnson Weddings

The plan was to quickly get changed for a nice dinner with a stop at Liberty State Park prior for the proposal at golden hour. But we experienced a little mishaps with the hotel room not being ready yet, so Diana got ready in the lobby. Luckily, we made it for golden hour on the water and she made me the luckiest guy in the world by saying “yes!”

A gothic-inspired wedding.
Bri Johnson Weddings

Diana’s version: He proposed at Liberty State Park and it was such a magical night. Fortunately, we made it on time to our dinner reservation and he proposed on the water while the sun was setting. It was such a beautiful moment that I’ll always look back on and smile at.

A gothic-inspired wedding.
Bri Johnson Weddings

[RELATED: The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Venues in New Jersey]

Details of the Day

Diana and Dan’s gothic-inspired wedding at Seton Hall Chapel and Stone House at Stirling Ridge was a blend of unique style and timeless love.

A gothic-inspired wedding.
Bri Johnson Weddings

Dan saw Diana for the first time as she walked down the aisle and they shared an exciting an emotional ceremony.

A gothic-inspired wedding.
Bri Johnson Weddings

“Despite the rain, we were able to take beautiful photographs at the Chapel and outside at the venue during a short rain break,” says Diana.

A gothic-inspired wedding.
Bri Johnson Weddings

A highlight of their reception was the very energetic dance floor.

Favorite Moment 

“I honestly loved the whole day, but the thing that stuck out most was getting to see the love of my life walk down the aisle,” says. Dan. “That was a really special moment that will last a lifetime.”

A gothic-inspired wedding.
Bri Johnson Weddings

Dan also loved that they, “took a few minutes at the beginning of the reception after our first dance to look around, just hold hands and take in the moment.”

A gothic-inspired wedding.
Bri Johnson Weddings

“I have so many favorite moments from the day,” says Diana. “I had such a great morning with my bridal party and even got to have my dog see me before we headed to the chapel.”

A gothic-inspired wedding.
Bri Johnson Weddings

“At the venue, Dan and I had a few minutes to ourselves in the bridal suite where I put on music and we jumped around celebrating our marriage,” says Diana.

A gothic-inspired wedding.
Bri Johnson Weddings

“The music and dancing was absolutely incredible and probably my most favorite part,” says Diana. “I had the best time singing and dancing with all the people that I love!”

A gothic-inspired wedding.
Bri Johnson Weddings

Advice for Other Couples

“Remember to take a deep breath every now and then and remember what makes you and your fiance happy.” They add: “Online RSVPs are a great idea!”

A gothic-inspired wedding.
Bri Johnson Weddings

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the details

Ceremony Location

Seton Hall University Chapel

Reception Location

Stone House at Stirling Ridge

Photographer

Bri Johnson Weddings

Bride’s Gown

Maggie Sottero @maggiesotterodesigns

Hair

Hair: Vertyx Hair Salon

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