THEIR STORY: When Maggie and Bryan first met at an Irish pub in Bordertown, there was no denying the chemistry. While discussing Miles Davis, Paris, and photography, they each knew they had found the one. “We had a connection with each other like we never experienced before,” says Maggie.
ENGAGEMENT: On the night before Christmas Eve, Maggie watched all of her favorite memories play out on video with “Will You Marry Me?” appearing at the end. For Maggie, 27, of Allentown, the proposal was made all the more special since it took place in the very room that Bryan, 43, of Edison, first told her he loved her.
 DÉCOR: After touring several venues, Maggie and Bryan decided they wanted to celebrate their day with an English country garden theme. The Farmhouse at Grand Colonial struck just the right balance between laid back and elegant. Subtle details like vintage cigar trays with custom matches in a tin marked “the perfect match” delighted guests, while DIY rustic birdcage centerpieces adorned with subtle LED lights warmed up the space.
DRESSES: Throughout the day, Maggie changed into three wedding dresses, each with their own distinct flair. The first, a “Phyllis Wedding Dress” by Maggie Sottero, was fairytale-esque with a tulle skirt, subtle train and intricate beaded back. “It was perfectly whimsical,” says Maggie. The other two dresses—a quintessential 1950’s Hollywood style dress accessorized with a faux fur shawl and a 1920’s style sparkling cocktail dress accessorized with elbow-length silk gloves—made dancing and the sparker send-off all the more fun!
WHAT WENT WRONG: The couple never expected a downpour to send them running for shelter moments after their first look. Though it uprooted their plan for a garden ceremony, they didn’t let it shake them. “Who cares if the wedding dress got muddy during your first look, or the groom’s hair is soaked if you’re about to marry the love of your life?” jokes Maggie.
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FIRST DANCE SONG: “Thank You” by Led Zeppelin.
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FARM TO TABLE MENU: “When your closest friends and family know you as foodies, they’re going to expect some seriously good eats at your wedding,” says Maggie. The couple, known from their food/lifestyle blog as “Two Dopes from Jersey” decided to offer restaurant-style menu options—filet mignon with wild mushrooms, caramelized shallots, and a cabernet demi glaze, crab meat encrusted Atlantic turbot with lemon-dill beurre blanc and more—to their 90 guests. Since The Farmhouse prepares all of their food to order, guests enjoyed fresh customizable selections.
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FAVORS: Miniature birdcage tea light candle holders.
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HONEYMOON: After spending two weeks in Portugal, the couple is home in Ocean County.
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Allentown and Edison
The Farmhouse at Grand Colonial
Suzette Lucas Photography
Maggie Sottero
Badgley Mischka
+ more