A Key West-Inspired Wedding at the Jersey Shore

Their Story 

Samantha and Gregory tied the knot at the Wave Resort in Long Branch on November 18, 2023.

The Proposal 

“It was very us,” says Samantha. “We hate attention on us—my cheeks get instantly red. One January day after Gregory got home from work, he went into the garage—typical and nothing out of the ordinary. I was emptying out his lunch cooler and doing dishes and he walked in with our puppy, Oakley, and asked.”

Choosing the Venue

Gregory loves the water, and the Wave Resort is located right along the ocean in Long Branch. Samantha wanted a “blank slate to have our vision come to life.”

Details of the Day

“We have traveled to Key West a handful of times and it has become our go-to spot,” says Gregory. “Inasmuch, we love palm trees—the tropical vibe, the noise the fronds make when blowing in the wind—all the good stuff.”

The wedding featured navy blue and white with palm trees and leaves. Invitations included navy palm leaves as well as a laser-cut pocket for the invitation, details card, RSVP and accommodations card.

One of the duo’s signature drinks was a key lime pie martini as a nod to Key West and their favors were a bottle of Tito’s along with a bottle of Nellie and Joes Key West Lime Juice to tie it all together.

Their cake by Chocolate Carousel also featured a palm leaf motif.

Favorite Moment 

“Prior to walking down the aisle, seeing my family,” says Samantha.

Additionally: “Our officiant, who has been my best friend for 20+ years, gave my husband a pop quiz in the middle of the ceremony asking what marriage tip #1 is (after he just said it). My husband totally blanked and I literally started cracking up.”

She also loved the speeches and having the couple’s grandparents in attendance.

Detail They Couldn’t Live Without

“The support of our families. We’re both lucky that both sets of parents have been married for almost 50 years. The foundation that they have provided for us had showcased what real love and a healthy marriage is.”

Advice for Other Couples

“Laugh. We have been told time and time again that we take things too seriously. The mere fact that we laughed during our wedding ceremony speaks volumes.”

“Also—plan, plan, plan. I’m a planner by nature, but I understand it’s hard to tackle for others. Knock off something from your to do list each day—regardless how small. It adds up! Take a moment to look around the room. My husband and I hate attention on us, but the overall moment where I took a step back and looked around the room surrounded by the ones we love most hit my core.”