In Brides of Long Island’s Monthly “Mrs.” series, we profile some of our members’ unforgettable weddings. This month, Samantha talks about how her love of antiquing inspired the perfect touches for her wedding day.
(Photo by Solaris Photo & Film)
While Samantha and JJ may have had a typical online meeting, their relationship took an unconventional turn quickly. This cross-country pair settled on Long Island and planned the perfect romantic winter wedding day earlier this year.
A Cross-Country Adventure
Samantha and JJ’s romance began in December 2016 when she joined Bumble with a friend on a whim. The pair hit it off, but when Samantha learned JJ was just visiting Long Island and he actually lived in Los Angeles, she told him she just wanted to remain friends. JJ’s persistence and charm won her over, however. “After a month of talking, he invited me on a trip with his friends to New Orleans,” she said. “I was in my early 20s, and I had vowed that 2017 would be my ‘yes’ year. So I went, and we had a blast.” They spent a year navigating a long-distance relationship, flying back and forth between coasts before JJ moved back to Long Island.
By March 2023, Samantha and JJ were ready to take the next step. “We had talked about how I wanted something simple when he proposed,” she explains. JJ proposed on Walker Beach in Bay Shore, a quiet local spot close to the Lake House, where their families were gathered for dinner. “He was so nervous,” she said, laughing. “I sort of knew he was going to propose, as he never wants to take random walks. And we had never been to this beach before.” The celebration continued the next day at their home, where a planned baseball kickoff party for JJ’s birthday doubled as an engagement party with all their friends.
Finding the Perfect Venue
When it came to planning, Samantha and JJ took a thoughtful approach. They spent a month discussing finances, guest lists and priorities before diving into venue searches. For Samantha, the venue was the most important piece. “I wanted a romantic vintage vibe and a team that could bring that vision to life,” she explained. For JJ, the focus was on music and making sure guests had an unforgettable time on the dance floor. Together, they agreed that the venue, food, DJ and photography were their top priorities, setting the foundation for a celebration that felt both seamless and joyful.
Their search led them to tour 13 venues in just a month, but the decision ultimately came by chance. “We were actually set on another venue, when my mom reminded me that we had an appointment at the Mansion at Oyster Bay, [a BOLI Preferred Venue],” Samantha said. “When I walked through the doors, I knew it was the one. It had the exact vibe I was looking for.” Within two hours, she and JJ signed with the venue, and it did not disappoint. From the maitre d’ to the bridal attendant, the staff exceeded every expectation and made the couple feel supported on their wedding day.
(Photo by Solaris Photo & Film)
Creating that Vintage Vibe
For Samantha, creating a romantic vintage vibe was at the heart of her wedding design. A lifelong lover of antiques, she leaned into warm winter tones—mauves, purples, and creams—and dressed her bridesmaids in velvet to heighten the cozy, romantic feel. She scoured estate sales and Facebook Marketplace for brass candelabras and unique centerpieces. One of her favorite details was a refurbished vintage phone chair she found online, which became the perfect setting for their phone guest book. “I actually donated it to the Mansion afterward so future brides could enjoy it,” she said. Other subtle touches included custom matchbooks at the bar, drink stirrers and a crest on the invitations—all designed to enhance the atmosphere without overwhelming it. The Mansion at Oyster Bay’s timeless elegance provided the perfect backdrop, making it easy to execute Samantha’s vision of a wedding that felt personal, romantic and beautifully vintage.
(Photo by Solaris Photo & Film)
A Moment of Calm
Samantha and JJ exchanged vows at St. Joseph’s in Babylon, the church where both her grandparents and parents had been married. The pair waited to have their first look when Samantha walked down the aisle. After the ceremony and photos, the newlyweds were ready for their moment of quiet in their bridal suite – enjoying the delicious cocktail hour food the staff had put out for them. “That moment was so important,” Samantha recalled. “We finally sat alone, looked at each other, and said, ‘We’re married.’ Hearing the laughter outside while having that private pause was bliss. All the work was done, and now we could just enjoy ourselves and celebrate with our loved ones.”
Obviously, Samantha and JJ were thrilled with all of their vendors, but two stood out as truly exceptional. BOLI Preferred Vendor High Voltage, led by Anthony—who Samantha had first worked with at her sweet 16—kept the dance floor packed all night. From seamless communication to thoughtful extras like signage, guest book setup and even a surprise upgrade to their reception design, Anthony and his team went above and beyond. “Guests still rave about the playlist,” she said.
(Photo by Solaris Photo & Film)
Equally memorable was Kaela from Tower Flowers Nesconset, who brought Samantha’s romantic vintage vision to life with honesty and artistry. Kaela embraced her ideas, incorporating the candelabras into lush floral arrangements and creating everything from the boutonnieres to centerpieces with care. “She just listened,” Samantha said, noting that the results were perfect.
Stay True to Yourself
Throughout her planning, Samantha leaned on Brides of Long Island as both a resource and a community. She looked for reviews to prepare herself for vendor meetings, and she asked questions that brought in dozens of helpful responses—from makeup recommendations for her bridal shower to ideas for her bachelorette theme. “Once you’re in it, you realize you don’t know how you survived without it,” she said, noting how invaluable the group became throughout the entire process.
Now, as a bride looking back, Samantha encourages others to stay true to themselves. “Take advice, but at the end of the day, do what you want for your wedding,” she shared. “Trends and social media can be overwhelming, but the most important part is marrying your person in a way that feels authentic.” For Samantha, that meant a romantic vintage celebration filled with candlelight and subtle personal touches. Her advice: do your research, trust your instincts and make decisions that reflect your vision—you’ll never regret creating a day that’s uniquely yours.
(Photo by Solaris Photo & Film)
Vendors:
Venue: The Mansion at Oyster Bay, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Photo/Video: Solaris Photo & Film, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
DJ: High Voltage, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Florist: Towers Flowers Nesconset
Hair: Emilie Does My Hair
Makeup: Makeup by Marisa
Dress: Ivory & Main, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Cake: Batter Up
Tuxedos: The Black Tux
Transportation: All Star Limo, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Piano Player: Inspire with Strings
Cigar Bar: Village Cigar Headquarters in Patchogue, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Day of coordinators: Meaghan & Katie of Three Sisters II Events
Dog sitter: Tracy of Love & Leashes, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
(Photo by Solaris Photo & Film)
Looking to keep the party going after your wedding? These ideas will entertain your guests.
We spend so much time planning our wedding, so of course you might want to continue partying after the reception is officially over.
A lot of venues offer after party options. You could always head back to your hotel bar to unwind, or you could plan one of these eight unique ideas for your after party.
Bowling
Trade those wedding shoes for some bowling shoes at your local alley. Keep your wedding dress and tuxedo on for some fun photos! Split up into teams to enjoy a little friendly competition. And don’t forget to order some bar food and pitchers of beer.
Karaoke
You’ve spent all night dancing and listening to your DJ. Why not take the mic yourself for your after party? Check out bars to see if they offer karaoke, or get an inexpensive karaoke machine and bring it to wherever you head after.
Pool Party
This can work anywhere. Some hotels allow parties in their pool area, or you could enjoy a friend’s pool. You may even have your own! Either way, this is a great way to relax and chill after a long day.
Laser Tag
Up for some friendly competition to unwind after your wedding? Head to a laser tag joint. This is another fun idea that could make for some great photos in your wedding attire!
Escape Room
Reserve a few rooms for a fun challenge after your wedding.
Movie Night
Some theaters allow you to rent the full theater for all of your guests. Or if you want to keep it low-key, see if you could host it at your venue, hotel or even at your house. Don’t forget the popcorn!
Bonfire
Depending on where your venue is, you could head to a beach or park that allows bonfires. Or see if your hotel or venue has a firepit you could use.
Scavenger Hunt
Hand out the item list to your guests when they leave, and pick a location to meet up at after. The guest who has the most items on the list gets a free drink on the bride and groom!
The sky is the limit when it comes to after party ideas on your wedding day. You can keep it chill or party all night until closing time. Whatever you decide, remember to enjoy yourself. Take a moment to absorb the love from your friends and family who kept the celebration going!
This article brought to you by Port Jefferson Country Club, a Brides of Long Island Preferred Venue!
Nervous about keeping the conversation going? Here are 5 fun topics to discuss with your in-laws at the next holiday gathering!
The holidays are here, and with that comes some much-anticipated family time. More likely than not, you’re splitting a few festive get-togethers between your family and your fiancé’s family. And while there’s no shortage of things you feel comfortable discussing with your own folks, that may not be the case with your future in-laws.
Maybe you’re on the shy side or maybe you just don’t know them that well, but having to keep the convo going at your in-laws may feel somewhat daunting. What happens when there’s that awkward moment of silence and you don’t know how to fill it? You know to avoid politics and religion, but what are some easy things you can talk about? Fear not, brides of Long Island — here are 5 fun, stress-free topics to discuss with your in-laws.
1. Wedding planning
This one is a no-brainer! Your in-laws may be relatively involved with the wedding planning process, but you can keep them up-to-date on details they might not know — your bridal shower and bachelorette, the flowers you’re choosing for the bouquets, finally deciding on a playlist. There are lots of things to discuss when it comes to your big day.
2. Memories from your fiancé’s childhood
Your fiancé can’t get enough of the Yankees, so ask mom and dad when this obsession started! They’re sure to share some funny and heartfelt moments from your fiancé’s childhood. Just be sure to steer clear of any topics that might be sensitive to your fiancé.
3. Their friend groups and social circles
You love a little hot gossip, no matter the age range. Ask about your future MIL’s crafting group or your future FIL’s golf buddies. They may have some exciting things to share (or some funny things to vent!) That can also give you some topics to discuss for the future — “hey, how’s your knitting friend doing?”
4. Holiday traditions from their past
Every family does something slightly different for the holidays. This is a perfect time to learn about their favorite traditions, and share some of your own with them.
5. Pop culture and sports
When all else fails, pop culture and sports teams are super easy topics. Has your future MIL seen the new Wicked movie? Can your future FIL believe the last Giants game? You may want to do a little research to see what they’re into, but showing investment in their interests can also nab you some in-law brownie points.
This article sponsored by Absolute Entertainment, a Brides of Long Island Preferred Vendor!
Celebrate with self-care! These ideas will help you bring wellness to your wedding weekend
Some brides of Long Island can’t wait to hit the dance floor with their signature cocktail in hand. But others may be more inclined to mindfulness and meditation than Whiskey Sours and “September.”
Neither desire is wrong! Your wedding is a reflection of you, your love story, and both of your personalities. If the traditional wedding activities aren’t really your style, here are a few ideas that can bring “wellness” into your wedding weekend.
Welcome your guests with a physical activity
There’s nothing that says your welcome party has to be a “party.” Welcome guests to your wedding weekend by inviting them to a group activity, like a yoga class, OrangeTheory workout, or 5K walk/run.
Of course, you’ll need to consider any limitations your guests may have. If your 80 year old grandmother is in a wheelchair, she may not be able to participate in anything too demanding. Be sure to have some alternatives lined up for those who can’t participate.
Enjoy a spa day with family and friends before “I do”
Sure, getting manicures and massages are great ideas for the bachelorette. But the nerves can be pretty intense in those hours before the big day! There’s no better time to focus on relaxation and reflection. Sharing that time with those closest to you can enhance your bond and relieve some stress for everyone.
A different kind of “open bar.”
Who says your libations have to be alcoholic? Consider offering your guests herbal teas, fruit-infused waters, or beverages with adaptogens. You don’t have to stop at the reception, either — consider tea bags for your favors or special drinks for your after party.
Get a drip
There are many concierge services that offer personalized IV drips. These formulas can help boost your immunity, hydration, and even mental focus. A quick drip before “I do” may be just what the doctor ordered!
A sound bath or meditation before the ceremony
Sound baths can provide a grounding, meditative experience for those involved. What better way to bring everyone to the present moment? Even if sound baths aren’t your thing, asking your officiant to lead in a brief meditation before the beginning of your ceremony can bring a calm, centered energy to the day.
Before you run off and say “I do,” here are some helpful tips to plan your elopement.
Whether you want to skip planning a wedding or you’ve just always wanted to keep things low-key, an elopement is the perfect way to celebrate your love with less stress and more focus on you and your future spouse. But before you run off to say “I do,” you’ll want to thoughtfully prepare for logistics, legalities and how to make the day feel special and true to you. Before you start to worry, we’re here with some tips on how to plan the perfect elopement.
Set a Budget
Just as if you were planning a full wedding ceremony and reception, you should still set a budget for your perfect elopement. If you’re traveling, consider how much you’re comfortable spending on travel expenses and factor that into your wedding day itself.
Pick a Meaningful Location
The sky is the limit when picking a location. To narrow it down, choose a location that is important to you and your spouse. Perhaps you have a favorite vacation spot. Or if you want to stay closer to home, maybe pick a spot you frequent or where you went on your first date. Consider your backyard to keep it closest to home.
Check Legal Requirements and Secure Permits
Wherever you choose, it’s important to check any requirements to make sure your marriage is legal. If you’re eloping in another country or state, check the requirements on marriage licenses and what you’ll need to do on the day of your wedding.
If you’re planning to have your ceremony outdoors at a park or public space, check if you’ll need a permit and how to secure it. And make sure to factor in any fees into your budget.
Decide on Vendors and Guests
Depending on your preference, decide on if you’ll need any vendors. Perhaps you just want a photographer to document the day. Or maybe a content creator would be the perfect option for you. Other vendors to consider are officiants (if you’re having a friend or family member preside, make sure they have the proper paperwork wherever you are), flowers, hair and makeup.
As far as guests, again, this is your preference. Do you want a few close friends and family? If you’re not sure, and want to keep it very low key, consider just having you and your future spouse and an officiant – and let people know after!
Create a Timeline
No matter where you elope, it’s important to make a loose timeline, especially if travel is involved. But don’t stress over it. Remember – this day is about you and should be stress-free. The schedule is just a way to keep the day flowing.
Add Meaningful Touches
Write your own vows. Play your favorite song. Wear your favorite outfits. Share your favorite drinks. Make the day yours!
Celebrate Later
Once you have your perfect elopement, consider celebrating later with family and friends. It can be a casual dinner at home or a small, intimate get together at your favorite restaurant. But if you want to skip the celebration, that’s OK too!
Announce Your Marriage
If you feel so moved, announce your marriage however you feel comfortable. A mailed card with a photo from the day or maybe just an email or social media post. Or skip this all together, and surprise your friends the next time you see them!
Just as with your wedding ceremony and reception, your elopement can be as big or intimate as you want it. The key is making the day your own and celebrating this next chapter together.
This article is sponsored by Westbury Manor, a Brides of Long Island Preferred Venue!
You want to look and feel your best on your big day. Here are the best places for bridal beauty prep in Nassau County, Long Island!
Your engagement is a time to pamper yourself. Trust us — get the facials, get the spa treatments, and take every opportunity to indulge in a little self-care! The more time you take to prep for your wedding day, the better you will feel when it comes time to walk the aisle.
If you’re a western Long Island BOLI (or you’re willing to drive!), check out 5 of the best places for bridal beauty prep in Nassau County.
Beauty Luxe Skin and Body: Plastic Surgery of New York
Great Neck
Working in healthcare for 10 years prepared owner and practitioner Stephanie to give the best experience to her brides and their bridal parties. She offers a variety of services including enhanced lip dermal fillers, Botox, laser hair removal, & laser skin tightening, and lymphatic massages.
4 Ever Young Cosmetic Injectables
Albertson, in-home appointments
Amanda Handel worked in several medical fields, but found a passion in the cosmetic world. Working out of We Drive Health in Albertson and also traveling to brides’ homes, she truly enjoys helong people and making them feel their greatest.
The Bronzed Bar Inc
Bellmore
The Bronzed Bar was voted #1 on Long Island for bridal spray tans, and was recently honored with the 2025 Shnepe Media Long Island Power Women award! Trusted by celebrities and clients alike, they deliver natural, stunning spray tans that last longer and fade beautifully.
OrangeTheory Fitness
Carle Place, Greenvale, Hewlett, Merrick, Massapequa Park, Seaford, Rockville Centre, Syosset, East Meadow, Oceanside
Whether you’re looking to tone, build strength, or just release some pre-wedding jitters, OrangeTheory Fitness has your back with group fitness that’s both fun and challenging. Their workouts are built on science, designed to make every minute count, and tailored to fit all fitness levels.
Nura NYC LLC
Rockville Centre
The name “Nura” comes from an Arabic word meaning light or radiance — a reflection of founder Carolyn’s belief that true beauty begins from within and shines outward. She’s trained in everything from advanced body contouring and waxing to lymphatic massage and holistic skin therapies, blending science and self-care into each service.
These beautiful sites in Suffolk County are sure to make your engagement photos special.
Long Island is filled with so many beautiful places to take engagement photos. And we know that with all of the wedding planning you’ve got going on, the thought of finding a location for an engagement shoot is the last thing on your mind.
Sometimes your photographer will have a suggestion for you. But if they don’t and you have no idea where to start, don’t worry! Long Island, specifically Suffolk County, is filled with hidden gems and beautiful grounds. From parks to fields, below are seven places to take engagement photos in Suffolk County.
Sites That Require a Permit
Argyle Park
Located in Babylon, this park has a lake and a beautiful waterfall, making for a great backdrop for all your photos. If you’re a Babylon Village resident, there is no fee. If you’re not a resident, there is a $100 fee. Either way, you need to fill out a permit application to take photos here. Call the Babylon Village Hall at (631) 669-1500 for more information.
Bayard Cutting Arboretum
This ‘museum of trees’ is filled with spots to make your photo session memorable. There is a $250 fee for 1.5 hours on the grounds. There is also an $8 fee to park. Photo sessions start at 11 a.m., with the last one starting at 2 p.m., and are first-come, first-serve. Click here to download the permit application.
Lake Ronkonkoma
The lake and view is perfect for fall photos. Since it is a Suffolk County park, there could be a fee and a permit might be required. You can find out more information here.
Sunflower Fields
The East End has great farms, so why not check out a sunflower field for your engagement photos? Waterdrinkers Farm allows photos for a small fee of $25/hour. Click here for more information.
Sites Do Not Require a Permit
Islip Grange Park
Located in Sayville, this park might be the perfect location for you. It has historic buildings, such as a church and a barn, a field and more. And the best part, you don’t need a permit and there is no fee to take photos here.
Lighthouse at Robert Moses
This western-most point of Fire Island offers almost five miles of beach, beautiful, hidden paths and, of course, the lighthouse. Since this is a state park, you shouldn’t need a permit, but you could pay parking fees. You can click here for more information.
Port Jefferson
From the small beaches to the docks and shops along Main Street, downtown Port Jeff or ‘Down Port,’ is a great place to take photos. You shouldn’t need a permit, but make sure you aren’t on private property along the shore. Click here for more info.
If you’re still at a loss, don’t want to pay a fee or don’t want to get a permit, get creative! Perhaps you, a family member or friend have a large yard. Maybe you live near a park or trail where you can take photos. You could even check with your wedding venue and see if you can use their grounds during off hours for your engagement photos. Or think back to a place where maybe you met your spouse – your favorite bar, bowling alley – and take pictures there.
No matter where you go, remember to just have fun and enjoy this time together!
BOLI Preferred Venue The Old Field Club offers picturesque charm and unparalleled service
Image courtesy of The Old Field Club
When it comes to choosing the perfect Long Island wedding venue, couples dream of a place that feels timeless, romantic, and uniquely theirs. Nestled along the picturesque waters of Long Island’s North Shore, BOLI Preferred Venue The Old Field Club in East Setauket is exactly that — a private and award-winning venue that offers breathtaking waterfront views, personalized service and an “exclusively yours” experience that makes every wedding unforgettable.
Image courtesy of The Old Field Club
One Wedding at a Time
At The Old Field Club, the whole team ensures that your love story is the only story that matters. Unlike larger venues that may host multiple weddings in one day, The Old Field Club has a proud tradition of hosting just one wedding at a time. This exclusivity means you and your guests will enjoy the full attention of the Private Club’s Executive Team, ensuring every detail runs seamlessly.
From your first planning meeting to your last dance, you’ll feel the difference that personalized, attentive service makes.
The Beauty of a Waterfront Wedding
Outdoor ceremonies at The Old Field Club are truly magical. Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by the sparkling waters of the North Shore as your backdrop!
For couples who prefer an indoor setting, the elegant ballroom offers a rustic yet refined space, complete with wood-beamed ceilings, glistening chandeliers, a working fireplace and French doors that open to a waterside deck. Rain or shine, every couple has a picture-perfect ceremony option.
Image courtesy of The Old Field Club
Rustic Charm Meets Timeless Elegance
Brides searching for a venue that blends rustic charm with modern elegance will fall in love with The Old Field Club. With its versatile spaces like the charming Lagoon Room for cocktail hour to the tastefully restored ballroom, every space offers the perfect canvas to bring your wedding vision to life. Whether your style is classic and romantic, modern and chic, or somewhere in between, The Old Field Club adapts beautifully to your theme.
A Culinary Experience to Remember
Food is always one of the most memorable parts of any wedding and The Old Field Club delivers an exceptional dining experience. Couples work with the Club’s culinary team to design menus that reflect their style, from cocktail hour hors d’oeuvres to decadent plated dinners and late-night treats.
Guests can also enjoy premium bar service, including top-shelf spirits, curated wines, and champagne toasts. Every bite is prepared with care, ensuring your wedding is remembered as much for the dining as for the dancing.
Image courtesy of The Old Field Club
5 Reasons Why Brides Love The Old Field Club
- EXCLUSIVITY – ONE WEDDING, ONE LOVE STORY.
At The Old Field Club, you’ll never share your day with another couple. Our team is dedicated entirely to you, giving your wedding the focus and attention it deserves. From your arrival to your last dance, your love story is the only one being celebrated. - LOCATION – A WATERFRONT OASIS.
Nestled on Long Island’s stunning North Shore, the Club offers breathtaking water views that create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments and photographs you’ll treasure forever. - VERSATILITY – SPACES THAT MATCH YOUR VISION.
Whether you dream of an outdoor ceremony surrounded by nature, an elegant ballroom reception, or both, The Old Field Club offers flexible indoor and outdoor options that ensure your day feels perfectly yours. - CUISINE – DINING DESIGNED AROUND YOU.
The Old Field Club’s highly acclaimed culinary team uses the freshest seasonal ingredients to craft menus that are as memorable as they are delicious. Every dish is thoughtfully prepared to reflect your taste and vision. From elegant hors d’oeuvres to multi-course dinners and decadent desserts, your guests will experience the perfect blend of flavor, presentation and hospitality. - CHARM & ELEGANCE – RUSTIC ROMANCE MEETS TIMELESS STYLE.
With its combination of warm, rustic character and sophisticated detail, The Old Field Club is the perfect balance of cozy intimacy and elevated elegance. It’s a venue that feels both welcoming and unforgettable.
Image courtesy of The Old Field Club
Plan Your Wedding at The Old Field Club
Your wedding day should be a once-in-a-lifetime experience in a setting as unforgettable as your love story. At The Old Field Club, that dream becomes reality.
Private tours are available by appointment only and dates for 2026 are already filling quickly.
If you’re a bride-to-be searching for the perfect Long Island wedding venue, discover the beauty and exclusivity of The Old Field Club — your hidden gem on the North Shore where memories are made to last a lifetime.
Image courtesy of The Old Field Club
In Brides of Long Island’s Monthly “Mrs.” series, we profile some of our members’ unforgettable weddings. This month, we spoke with Victoria Elizabeth about working with her friends to bring her glam wedding to life.
(Photo by Heather Pauline Photography)
Victoria Elizabeth, founder of BOLI Preferred Vendor Victoria Elizabeth Official, has spent her career making brides look their very best on their wedding day. But on April 27, 2025, it was her turn to sit in the makeup chair and say ‘I do.’ And she made sure to do it up big – working with her best friend Kristin from Eventful Days, she planned the beautiful glam wedding of her dreams.
Judged By His Heart
Victoria and Taylor met online in 2020. He was living in Texas and eight years her junior, and she was in New York. “I originally didn’t think it could work out,” she said. “But then he said to me, ‘Don’t judge a man by his appearance or age, judge him by his heart.’ So I gave him a shot.” After a year of long-distance conversations, Taylor moved to Long Island to be with her. “It was a bit of a culture shock for him, but he became a New Yorker pretty quickly,” Victoria said. “He even picked up a New York accent!”
Four years later, Taylor proposed in the most meaningful way. On his first visit, Victoria took him to Montauk Manor where they sat on a hill. He asked her to be his girlfriend, promising that one day he’d return to that same spot to ask her to be his wife. “It seemed like a trick though, because we go there every year,” she said. “Last year was different though, when he pulled out a ring, making good on his promise.” And when she said yes, her parents emerged from the Montauk Manor to celebrate the moment.
(Photo by Heather Pauline Photography)
Nine Months to Plan
The couple wasted no time diving into wedding planning. “Once we got engaged, my first call was to Kristin,” said Victoria. “She immediately sprang into action, bringing her signature expertise and passion to every detail.” Together they curated a dream team of vendors, including Heather Pauline Photography, a fellow BOLI Preferred Vendor, who got to know Victoria and Taylor as a couple so she could shape the visual storytelling of their day. From engagement shoots in Miami to intimate moments on Long Island, Heather’s work became a cornerstone of the celebration.
When it came to choosing a venue, Peconic Bay Yacht Club was an obvious choice. “It’s one of Kristin’s favorites, and I’m a preferred vendor there,” Victoria said. “Plus, I had been to several weddings there, and I knew it could be transformed to our style.” While Taylor’s love of the water made the location feel personal, Victoria’s vision leaned full glam. With Kristin’s guidance and the support of venue directors John and Hillary, they brought the elegance of the Plaza Hotel to the East End. From luxe florals to elevated design choices, the result was a dazzling departure from the venue’s typical rustic charm.
(Photo by Heather Pauline Photography)
The Glam Effect
To bring their vision to life, Victoria transformed the Peconic Bay Yacht Club from top to bottom. “We brought in everything, the tables, chairs, napkins, glasses, silverware. If I could have brought in the chandelier, I would have,” she laughed. A custom bar and photo station added personalized flair, and every detail was curated to reflect their glamorous aesthetic. “It was a white box—we got rid of everything Peconic had and made it our own.”
Victoria and Taylor also added some meaningful details into the wedding that reflected their personalities and love story. Guests were greeted with signature drinks – Victoria’s favorite, a dirty martini dubbed the “Dirty V,” and an energy drink, a nod to Taylor’s alcohol-free lifestyle. Each cocktail napkin featured a Bible verse about love, adding a heartfelt layer to every toast. And the couple leaned into an Italian-inspired vibe, complete with a Frank Sinatra-style singer.
On Cloud Nine – Literally
For Victoria, the ceremony held profound meaning. “I had a very hard time meeting someone, I never thought it would happen,” she shared. She carefully chose the songs and set the tone for a moment that felt more spiritual than scripted. “I just wanted whatever was going to happen to happen,” she said. As she walked down the aisle on the balcony at Peconic Bay Yacht Club, emotion washed over her. “I felt like someone was carrying me in a cloud. I was crying, and I just felt like God was saying, ‘I’m giving you what I promised you,’” she said. “And then when a gust of wind lifted my veil over Taylor’s head, it looked so beautiful. When you look back on the pictures, my veil covers him, and it looks like the two becoming one. It was such a surreal, divine moment.”
(Photo by Heather Pauline Photography)
Having the Right People
Her picture perfect wedding day wouldn’t have been possible without her powerhouse team of vendors, many of whom she’s proud to call friends. From Heather Pauline’s deeply personal photography to Kristin’s seamless planning, every detail was executed with heart. Vincent Salvatore crafted a cake that mirrored Victoria’s vision, while Gino from Dolce & Gelato, a BOLI Preferred Vendor, added a whimsical touch by dressing in a cannoli costume when it came time to serve the dessert. And at BOLI Preferred Vendor Bridal Reflections, Victoria found her perfect Galia Lahav gown in a moment of serendipity – one that made her feel radiant, emotional and deeply connected to her grandmother. “They all stood out for very good reasons,” she said. “It’s so hard to pick just one that made the day.”
As a beauty professional in the wedding industry, Victoria had a unique advantage during her planning process: her own clients. “If I wasn’t in the business, I wouldn’t have even known what to ask,” she admitted. During makeup trials, she’d turn the tables and ask her brides for tips. “One girl told me about ring boxes for the detail shots, and other small touches I hadn’t considered,” said Victoria. “My fellow brides really helped me think through the details.”
Now with her dream day behind her, Victoria wants to remind brides about the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. “Having the right people beside you makes all the difference. If someone’s bringing negative energy, don’t include them,” she said. “This day is about you and your husband. Protect that joy. You deserve to feel completely supported and loved.”
(Photo by Heather Pauline Photography)
Vendors:
Venue: Peconic Bay Yacht Club
Photographer: Heather Pauline Photography, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Videography: AJ Ingoglia Wedding Films
DJ: Mystical Entertainment Group
Florist: Pedestals Floral Decorators
Hair/Makeup: Victoria Elizabeth Official, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Dress: Bridal Reflections, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Cake: Vincenzo Salvatore Cakes
Tuxedos: B2Bespoke
Planner: Kristin and Jahniece at Eventful Days
Content Creator: So Bridal Social
Custom Backdrop: LitBarNYC
Rentals: Luxe Event Rentals and The Finishing Touch NY, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Invitations: Harley Blue Design NY
Cannoli King: Dolce & Gelato, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Headpiece: Christie Lauren Headpieces
(Photo by Heather Pauline Photography)
Ready to pop the question? Here are a few ways to make your proposal special.
BOLI, this one is for your future spouse 😉
You’ve been wanting to propose for a while, and you want to make it special. Getting on one knee is great and everything, but you really want to wow your (hopefully) future fiancé, and create a memory they’ll share with their loved ones for the rest of their lives.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to make the moment stand out! Here are 8 unique ideas for your proposal.
Image by Krystal Rose Photography, courtesy of Sweet Harmony
1. Live Music
Can you imagine how romantic it would be to pop the question with a live violinist, or a string quartet, or even a guitarist providing a beautiful soundtrack? Live musicians like BOLI Preferred Vendor Sweet Harmony can enrich your proposal with, well, sweet harmonies! They’ve even got a live music guide for marriage proposals, so you can select the right melodies for the moment.
2. Involve friends and family
You know everyone is going to be over the moon once they hear the news, so let them in on things right from the start! Make them a part of your proposal by asking them to hold up signs, bring your future fiancé to that “perfect” spot on the beach, or pop out and yell “surprise!” after the inevitable “yes!”
Image courtesy of Yellow House Images
3. Revisit one of your special places…
Where did you first meet your future fiancé? A bar, a ballpark, a gas station? It doesn’t matter where that place is, it holds special meaning for the both of you. Choosing the place where it all began is a wonderful way to make your proposal special, and brings your love story full circle.
Nestled on the quiet shores of East Setauket, BOLI Preferred Venue The Old Field Club is where elegant tradition meets effortless romance.
4. …or choose a new place you’ll always remember
Maybe your future fiancé has always wanted to go to France. Or maybe they’re dying to hike a scenic route upstate! Or maybe a peaceful beach in Aruba is more their speed. If they’ve been mentioning a location they’ve always wanted to visit, it might be the perfect opportunity to cement that place into your histories.
Image courtesy of JS Visions Photography and Cinematography
5. Create a scavenger hunt
Does your future fiancé love solving mysteries and traveling around town? A scavenger hunt is a fun and active way to pop the question! Just make sure you have someone guarding the ring at the final location.
6. A surprise within your routine
You know that Saturday mornings mean coffee in bed together. Serve your future fiancé’s coffee with a side of diamond (or opal, or emeralds, or sapphires…you get the picture). Popping the question when they least expect it will create a moment they’ll never forget.
Image courtesy of Foxlight Studios
7. Incorporate their hobbies
Is your future fiancé a crossword addict? Let them know about this brand new, super fun puzzle you found. The theme will lead to wedding bells! Think about their interests and hobbies, and find a way to propose using their favorite pastimes.
8. Recruit your furry friend
Your dog or cat (or even your hamster!) is part of your family. Let them in on the festivities too! Tying the ring around your fur babies collar will save your knees from a few scrapes, as long as they don’t tend to outrun their leash!