Mrs. August: Why Rainbows Made This BOLI’s Beach Wedding Special

In Brides of Long Island’s Monthly “Mrs.” series, we profile some of our members’ unforgettable weddings. This month, Dominique talks about the must-haves on her wedding day.

Dominique and Dylan grew up just a few towns apart on Long Island, and were on the same swim team when they were in elementary school. And even though they ran in the same circles as they grew up – both swimming and lifeguarding – the pair didn’t start dating until the Covid pandemic. After nine months of planning, they had their dream beach wedding this past May before Dominique started her surgical residency.

A Long-Distance Love

Even though the pair grew up on Long Island, Dominique says their relationship was mainly long-distance. Dylan was living in Colorado, while Dominique was in medical school in Buffalo. In September 2024, Dylan took Dominique up the same mountain in Aspen they went to during her first and proposed. “Basically, on our four-year anniversary, we took the gondola up the mountain, and he proposed at the top,” Dominique says.

MORE: 5 Reasons to Have a Short Engagement

Planning a Wedding and Residency

Knowing she wanted to get married before starting her surgery residency, Dominique and Dylan started planning a month after they got engaged. “I was planning my wedding, interviewing for a residency and going through orientation at the same time,” she says. The shorter amount of time to plan made it easy for Dominique and Dylan to make decisions quickly.

The first vendor they secured was their venue. “I’m very proactive, and I knew we wanted to get married on the beach,” she says. “So, I started calling all the venues on Long Island on the water.” The first place they called was Pavilion at Sunken Meadow, a BOLI Preferred Vendor. “We loved that we could literally get married right on the beach there,” she says. “And they had a couple of the weekends we were considering for our May wedding.”

Once they booked Sunken Meadow Pavilion, the rest of the vendors fell into place. Photography was really important to the couple, so they booked a good friend of Dylan’s from Colorado. “We loved working with him,” she says. “He’s extremely talented, and also laid back. He got some amazing shots on our wedding day, and we didn’t even realize he was there!” Another important vendor was the DJ. They booked Absolute Entertainment, a BOLI Preferred Vendor, and were thrilled when their dance floor was packed the whole night. “I don’t think there was one person not on the dance floor!”

MORE: Get Your Party Started with Absolute Entertainment

A Beach Affair With a Rainbow Surprise

In keeping with the laid back beach vibe, Dominique and Dylan kept their colors to seafoam green and light tan. “I let my bridesmaids pick their own dresses,” she says. “I didn’t want to stress. We also didn’t want anything too formal since it was a beach wedding.”

They had Dylan’s family dog be the ring bearer. “We’re obsessed with her! She’s such a good dog, and everyone loved watching her come down the aisle,” she says.

Dominique’s favorite moment of the day though, was during her first dance. Even though the weather was beautiful during their ceremony, it started pouring when it came time for their first dance. However when the rain stopped, two rainbows came out over the water. “My dad passed away in 2016, and seeing those rainbows made me feel like my dad was there watching over us,” she says.

Dominique says all of her vendors went above and beyond for her wedding day. “The food at Sunken Meadow was so good,” she says. “Everyone is still talking about it.” She adds that the staff made everything seamless throughout planning and on her wedding day. Stephanie at Flowers on Broadway was incredible when it came to Dominique’s flowers. “She was able to bring my floral vision to life and she was open to making changes if needed,” she says. “She was so flexible, and each bouquet was stunning.”

MORE: The Best Wedding Venues in Suffolk County

Have Your Cake

Dominique says she used the search bar a lot on the BOLI Facebook page. “The last two weeks leading up to our wedding, I was scouring the page looking for other Sunken Meadow brides to get ideas on their decorations and first look locations,” she says.

Now that she’s looking back on her big day, she wants other brides not to stress over every single detail. “For me, I tried to keep it laid back,” she says. “I found that the more I tried to micromanage every little thing, the more things weren’t working out.” She suggests letting certain little things go, so you can focus on the bigger picture and enjoy your day. She also urges brides to have their cake! “Unfortunately, I was so busy with my friends and family taking pictures and enjoying ourselves, I didn’t get a piece of cake! So make sure you get cake!”

Vendors:
Venue: Pavilion at Sunken Meadow, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Photographer: Robert Barranco Photography
DJ: Absolute Entertainment, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Florist: Flowers on Broadway
Hair/Makeup: EDA Hair and Beauty
Dress: North Fork Bridal Shoppe, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Transportation: Mark of Elegance, a BOLI Preferred Vendor

Scheduling an engagement shoot can help you shake off any awkwardness ahead of your wedding day.

Wedding planning can be stressful enough. If the thought of taking wedding photos makes your stress level skyrocket, don’t worry! You’re not alone. We spoke with Michael Lopacki, owner of Michael John Photography, a BOLI preferred vendor, about how to not feel awkward during your wedding photos. “I often hear from brides that they don’t like taking photos or they always feel awkward,” Lopacki says. “But I can assure you, there are definitely ways to put you at ease before and during your wedding day.”

Schedule an Engagement Shoot

Engagement shoots are a great way to get to know your photographer ahead of the big day. It allows you and your future spouse to not only get comfortable in front of the camera, but it helps you to get comfortable with your photographer and learn from them. “An engagement shoot makes the wedding day flow just a little bit better,” says Lopacki. “It’s important because nervous couples can learn different cues that they remember on their wedding day to put them at ease.”

MORE: 11 Places to Take Engagement Photos on Long Island

Let Your Photographer Guide You

If you’re worried about being awkward in your wedding photos, let your photographer know. Lopacki says he always asks couples what their favorite side is. “Depending on what my brides tell me, I’ll make sure to show their best side,” he says. “It usually makes them feel more comfortable from the start.” From there, Lopacki says he guides couples through some traditional poses and then eases them into more fun poses. “I like to keep it light and easy so that no one has to be nervous.”

Incorporate Movement

Lopacki loves to incorporate movement in his photos. He says this always puts his couples at ease. So, what does that mean? Maybe walking and holding hands looking at each other. Or dancing and bumping hips. And when you start to feel more at ease behind the camera, Lopacki suggests trying some closer, influential-style posing. “I’ll ask my bride to touch her fiancé’s face, tickle his beard, snuggle a little bit,” he says. “If people feel awkward though, I’ll suggest someone whisper something in the other person’s ear. It can be whatever you want to get you to relax and loosen up.” He says that usually does the trick and gets couples laughing and acting more natural.

Speak Up

The best thing you can do as a nervous bride when it comes to photos is to speak up! Lopacki says all you have to do is tell your photographer you’re not comfortable with a pose or something they ask you to do, and they’ll be more than happy to come up with other ideas. “If a bride doesn’t feel comfortable touching her groom’s face, I’ll suggest a light touch on his chest or even his arm,” he says. Lopacki says that all photographers are able to understand their couples, so it’s important to be honest from the beginning or if something doesn’t feel right as you are taking photos. “We know how important these photos are to you, and we want to make sure you are comfortable and love every single shot,” he says.

MORE: Michael John Photography Makes Sure Your Wedding Day Is All About You

For those brides who aren’t worried about being awkward in their photos, but more worried about maybe some awkward family photos, Lopacki has some tips for those too. First, he says, is to work with your photographer to make a very thorough shot list. “I work with each couple to ensure the shot list has exactly what they want,” he says. “I ask all the questions about family members – are their parents married? If not, are they cordial? Can they stand next to each other?” This helps to keep the awkwardness out of those family photos, and keep the drama out of your wedding day. “We never want anyone – the couples, their families or friends – to feel uncomfortable on their wedding day.”

What about those people you may not want in family photos? Perhaps a family member’s significant other who might not be around in the future? “I don’t mind playing the bad guy when it comes to taking photos,” Lopacki says. “But seriously, I’ll just politely say that the photos are for married or engaged couples, and assure them I’ll take their photos later on in the night.”

MORE: Six Things to Consider When Making Your Wedding Day Timeline

Even the most cool, calm and collected bride can get a little nervous on her wedding day. “Sometimes before a first look or before they walk down the aisle, people get nervous,” he says. “I’ll just remind them of their engagement shoot, and how much fun we had. That usually brings a smile to their face and puts them at ease.”

Sparks are flying and love is in the air. So how long should you date before getting engaged?

They say that when you know, you know. You may have only met your significant other a short time ago, but you feel strongly that they’re “the one” and you’re positive they feel the same. So why not just cut to the chase and make it official? How long should you date before getting engaged? As with most things in life, the answer is different for everyone.

• MORE: When Should You Have an Engagement Party?

Beware of ‘the honeymoon phase’

You just met someone, and you’re getting to know each other, learn about cute habits and interests, and understand their world views. Everything is fresh and exciting right now, and each day you discover something different.

After a while, there won’t be that much else to discover. You’ll truly know each other and maybe those initial “sparks” will be gone, but in its place will be a deeper love.

Or…it won’t. Maybe those cute habits aren’t so “cute” anymore, or maybe you’ve figured out that your viewpoints just don’t jive that well.

This is why dating long enough to get past the ‘honeymoon phase’ is important. That length of time will be different depending on the person and the relationship, but settle into a more comfortable place before considering long-term commitments.

Old friends vs. new romances

Is your significant other a fling from your high school days, a friendship from college that blossomed into something more, or a recent Bumble hook up? Obviously, the longer someone has been in your life, the better you’re acquainted with them. Even if you just started to view them through a romantic lens, you may have years and years of knowing them already under your belt. That can speed up your engagement timeline a bit, if you’re both on board with the idea. 

Your ideal engagement

What does a picture perfect engagement look like to you? Is it a big, beautiful diamond presented in an Italian villa? Is it a cozy dinner at home with a straightforward question and a kiss? Clearly one of those options takes a lot more funding than the other. The benefit of dating for a while is that it gives your significant other some time to save up for your engagement — especially if you have your eye on an expensive ring or an epic getaway.  

• MORE: How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?

Wedding planning timeline

Some brides want to get married a few months after they say “yes,” and some want to take their time and enjoy their engagement. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks, but knowing your preference could make the ‘how long should you date before getting engaged’ question easier. 

If you know you want to take a year or more planning your wedding, you may decide to skip a few months of dating and get right to the good part. While you should still be very comfortable with your fiancé and well past the honeymoon phase, a long engagement gives both of you more time to enjoy each other’s company before diving headfirst into marriage. 

• MORE: 5 Reasons to Have a Long Engagement 

If you want to fast track to the altar, dating for a little longer may be a smart move. Wedding planning is stressful in general, but doing it on a shorter timeline is even more frenzied. You may not get quality down time to spend with your future spouse when every weekend is booked with venue tours and vendor meetings.

• MORE: 5 Reasons to Have a Short Engagement

There’s no right or wrong amount of time to date before getting engaged. Focus on getting to know your significant other inside and out — that’s the most important thing!

• MORE: Engaged? Time to download Ring Leader

Just like your wedding day, why not make your rehearsal dinner unique?

As wedding trends change, so do rehearsal dinner ideas. Traditionally, rehearsal dinners were a chance to actually rehearse for your wedding ceremony, and offered an opportunity for both families and the bridal party to meet and mingle ahead of the big day. And while actually rehearsing for your ceremony is important, many brides are opting for a more casual or fun rehearsal dinner. Some are skipping the “rehearsal” part all together.

You spend so much time planning every little detail of your wedding to make the day unique and special. Why not add a little fun to your rehearsal dinner too? Here are some unique rehearsal dinner ideas that will bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

Daytime Barbecue

If your wedding is the next day, opt for a fun daytime barbecue at your home, parents’ home, in-laws’ home, etc. It can be a relaxing day with good food. And you can set up an area to rehearse your ceremony if you need to.

Ax-Throwing

Hear us out! This could be a fun, casual way to relax ahead of your wedding day. Think of all of the stress you can get out so you can just focus on the big day.

Karaoke

What better way to join families and friends together than with a little sing along? You can do this out at a karaoke bar or do it at home with a karaoke machine to save some people from singing in public.

Party Before the Party

If you and your spouse love to party, why not have a little mini party for your rehearsal dinner? You don’t have to go crazy, just have some good food and a jamming playlist wherever you choose to have the dinner. Dancing is a great way to shake that stress away too!

MORE: The best caterers on Long Island

Bowling

Why not go old school and rent a few lanes at your local bowling alley? Get some friendly competition going between families or the bridal party.

Trip to the Wineries

Long Island has beautiful wineries. You can rent a limo or bus to bring your families and friends out to a winery for the day. Or keep it really low-key and just meet for some good vibes and relaxation.

Spa/Golf Day

Ahead of the rehearsal dinner, plan a spa day and/or a golf day for your families and friends to relax and get to know each other.

MORE: 20 Self-Care Ideas During Wedding Planning

Beach Day

In keeping with a relaxed daytime rehearsal dinner, why not plan a fun beach day for your families? You can pack some sandwiches and picnic on the beach. Grab some buckets and shovels and build some sandcastles. Pack some frisbees or balls for a game of catch. And don’t forget the sunscreen.

Escape Room

What better way to bond with your blended families and friends than locking yourselves in a room together? But seriously, this could be a unique way to unwind and have a few laughs ahead of your wedding day.

Dance Lessons

Dance lessons could be a fun way to choreograph a dance for your wedding day. Or maybe just a way to make sure people with two left feet feel comfortable on the dance floor. Either way, this is a unique rehearsal dinner idea that will put smiles on your families’ faces.

MORE: The best places for dance lessons on Long Island

Remember: just like your wedding, you should choose what you and your future spouse want for your rehearsal dinner. If you want to ditch the traditional, stick to it and have some fun!

Renowned boudoir virtuoso Alli Murphy Photography continues to expand her scintillating studio offerings. To celebrate, they have an incredible offer exclusively for Brides of Long Island!

Brides of Long Island love boudoir sessions as sultry gifts for their fiancés, but they often discover something much deeper in the process: a sense of empowerment and pride for their unique feminine strength.

BOLI Preferred Vendor Alli Murphy Photography is known throughout the BOLI community as a true boudoir guru, drawing out our brides’ sensual sides like a siren song. Now, Alli is debuting something exciting for our brides-to-be.

“We’re thrilled to introduce two brand new additions to our studio that take our signature style to the next level,” said Alli in a recent interview. “Bubbles and Foam in the Bathroom, and The Vintage Kitchen.”

• MORE: Alli Murphy Photography is a BOLI Diamond Award winner!

If you always loved bath time, you may be eager to explore what’s behind AMP’s doors. “We’ve put a playful twist on our classic bathroom set-up,” Alli explained. “With the addition of bubbles and foam, you’ll still find all the romance you love – now enhanced with a fun, flirty wet-look vibe.”

Perhaps you prefer a little more heat in your house — why not turn on the oven in The Vintage Kitchen? “Step into a dreamy 1950’s-inspired kitchen dripping with glamour,” Alli described. “This brand new scene is our most elaborate and romantic to date. Think red lips, high heels, and classic pin-up flair.”

These exciting enhancements have brought many clients – both old friends and new faces – through the AMP studio. “Our bookings have been flooding since its debut,” Alli said. 

Give your fiancé a sexy gift to open on the morning of your wedding. And better yet, give yourself a gift of self-love while celebrating your inherent beauty and power! 

BOLI brides, you can take advantage of this INCREDIBLE OFFER from Alli Murphy Photography – $100 will book your session which includes professional hair and make up and 2 digital images. Your $100 deposit is credited towards your purchase of additional images, plus you’ll get $100 off any ala carte products or $500 off any collections! Click here to book your bridal boudoir session!

• MORE: Ring Leader makes wedding planning easy

This article brought to you by Westbury Manor, a Brides of Long Island Preferred Venue!

Not into a traditional bridal look? Here are the 8 best veil alternatives for your wedding day.

Some brides love tradition, and some want to kick it to the curb! If you’re part of the latter group, you may be looking for ways to make your wedding stand out from the crowd.

One way to add a unique twist to your bridal look is by ditching the veil and going for something different. If you want to bypass the lace and tulle, here are the 8 best veil alternatives.

• MORE: 5 Alternatives to a Bouquet or Garter Toss

1. Flower crowns

Can we say “a boho wedding dream”?

 

2. Fascinators

If you’re going for a vintage feel, fascinators are a great choice.

 

3. Decorative flowers

Another detail that gives off boho flair!

 

4. Hats

Hats are perfect for a more rustic or casual wedding.

 

5. Tiaras

You’ll feel like a princess!

 

6. Decorative headbands

Think of it as an understated tiara.

 

7. Bows

Whimsical and classy!

 

8. Pins or barrettes

These can be sleek and delicate or bold statement pieces.

• MORE: Plan your wedding with Ring Leader

Saying “I do” on Long Island? Check out the best wedding venues in Suffolk County!

From the Queens border to the East End, there are so many beautiful Long Island wedding venues. Each one has something unique that is perfect for brides on their big day. From large catering halls to smaller intimate restaurants, how do you choose? Well, you start by figuring out where on Long Island you want to say “I do.”

Whether you’re from eastern Long Island or are just looking for a great venue that fits your vibe, the wedding venues in Suffolk County are sure to fit your needs. If you’re looking to say your vows on the beach in Montauk or in a vineyard on the North Fork, here are some of the best wedding venues in Suffolk County.

Sunset Harbor
East Patchogue
Located in its own marina and tucked away along the Great South Bay, Sunset Harbour has been family owned and operated for the past 25 years. The marina offers stunning views of the water and makes for great sunset photos. It can accommodate up to 250 guests.

Swan Lake Caterers
Manorville
This boutique-style venue is located on the greens of Swan Lake Golf Course. It features a rustic indoor look with wine barrels, barn doors and lanterns.

The Meadow Club
Port Jefferson Station
This recently renovated property boasts crystal chandeliers and perfectly manicured gardens. The Meadow Club hosts one wedding at a time, and offers various packages that fit every budget and wedding party size!

The Old Field Club
East Setauket
The Old Field Club offers waterfront views along the North Shore with rustic yet elegant charm. This intimate venue can accommodate up to 180 guests.

The Piermont
Babylon
Nestled on the Great South Bay, this waterfront venue features floor-to-ceiling windows for your guests to enjoy beautiful sunsets and amazing water views. The menus feature locally sourced products and American classics.

MORE: Best Wedding Venues in Nassau County

Watermill Caterers
Smithtown
Located in the heart of Suffolk County, this hidden gem features a sprawling estate, manicured landscapes, winding pathways and historic architecture. Your wedding will have old-world charm with luxurious modern comforts. It can accommodate up to 350 guests.

Insignia
Smithtown
This steakhouse-turned wedding venue can accommodate up to 300 guests. It offers indoor and outdoor spaces for a ceremony. Insignia combines the feel of a Hamptons-style mansion with an upscale Manhattan restaurant for a unique wedding. 

360 East at Montauk Downs
Montauk
Head to The End and celebrate your wedding day in an elegant setting. Wow your guests (up to 200 of them!) with views of Montauk. As a bonus, say your vows with the Montauk Lighthouse as your backdrop.

The Vineyards at Aquebogue
Aquebogue
The Vineyards has a rustic, farmhouse feel with enchanting gardens and (obviously) authentic vineyards. With a guest capacity of 300, this venue offers a variety of enhancement packages, as well as all-inclusive packages for Saturday or Sunday day weddings.

MORE: From Rustic to Glamourous, The Vineyards at Aquebogue Offers it All – One Wedding at a Time

Chateau at Coindre Hall
Huntington
With the Huntington Harbor as a backdrop, this mansion is both timeless and historic. Couples can exchange vows in the garden or the ballroom. And the photo opportunities are endless with a courtyard with vine-covered columns, a spiral staircase and six fireplaces. 

Essex Club
Brentwood
This quaint country club is set among 50 acres of rolling greens and picturesque perennials. Have your ceremony at the outside gazebo or in front of a roaring fireplace inside. And then dance the night away with up to 250 guests in the grand ballroom.

MORE: “No two weddings are ever the same.”  Essex Club offers versatility, affordability, and charm

Stonebridge Country Club
Smithtown
This modern-day country club overlooks a lush, green golf course and woodlands, offering plenty of photo opportunities. Stonebridge can accommodate up to 350 guests. It has an outdoor gazebo for ceremonies, and a couple options for cocktail hour.

Bourne Mansion
Oakdale
This historic Vanderbilt Museum is located on the Great South Bay with breathtaking views inside and out. The mansion features 40-foot vaulted ceilings, an elegant wooden staircase and a grand ballroom. It can hold up to 300 of your guests.

Estate at Three Village Inn
Stony Brook
Located in the heart of the historic town and overlooking Stony Brook Harbor, the Estate at Three Village Inn is a unique backdrop for your wedding day. Host your rehearsal dinner at their Mirabelle restaurant, stay overnight in their cozy rooms or suites, and then say your vows in the garden before enjoying your reception in their ballroom.

MORE: The Estate at Three Village Inn Offers Unique Charm That’s Off the Beaten Path

Mansion at Timber Point
Great River
The Mansion at Timber Point is nestled along the Great South Bay, offering views of Fire Island and the rolling greens of a golf course. Inside the historic mansion offers classic country décor with a modern twist for you and your up to 250 guests.

The Mansion at West Sayville
West Sayville
The Mansion at West Sayville offers classic splendor with rustic beach charm. It features views of the Great South Bay, Fire Island and the Maritime Museum. The grand ballroom features French doors to separate the dance floor from the dining room. A perfect setting for up to 220 guests.

Pavilion at Sunken Meadow
Kings Park
The Pavilion at Sunken Meadow is the premier location for the perfect beach wedding. It offers stretches of sand, gentle bay breezes and beautiful sunset views. It can accommodate up to 300 guests.

View
Oakdale
View offers a refined yet relaxing setting with beautiful waterfront views and award-winning food. Host your intimate wedding with up to 180 guests at the View for a customized menu and breathtaking landscapes.

East Wind Long Island
Wading River
East Wind features 26 acres on the Island’s North Shore giving brides plenty of opportunities for amazingly beautiful photos. Not only does it give you several options for your wedding – everything from an intimate garden affair to a stately ballroom – it also is home to a hotel, with several restaurants, shops and a full-service spa and salon. 

MORE: With Five Different Spaces, Shoppes and More, East Wind Long Island Offers Brides Plenty of Options

Giorgio’s Baiting Hollow
Baiting Hollow
Every wedding at Giorgio’s is personally overseen by the owners to make sure your perfect day goes smoothly. This venue is unique in its indoor/outdoor setting, with scenic views of a beautiful, rolling golf course. 

Atlantis Banquets & Events
Riverhead
When you hear “Atlantis,” you probably think of the aquarium. But why not get married there? From a small gathering of 20 guests to up to 650, you get to choose from up to nine different locations around the property to celebrate your big day. And don’t forget to inquire about taking photos with the animals!

MORE: Renovations Make Atlantis Banquet & Events the Perfect Venue for a Wedding on the Water

Bellport Country Club
Bellport
This one-wedding venue is located in the village of Bellport and offers rolling views of the championship golf course and Great South Bay. It features an indoor-outdoor cocktail hour, and a beautiful private garden for the perfect ceremony. 

Villa Lombardi’s
Holbrook
For more than four decades, the Lombardi family has set the standard in Long Island hospitality. Known for its delicious Neapolitan Italian Cuisine, the Lombardis bring a little bit of timeless tradition to your wedding day.

One10
Melville
This restaurant space is designed in a modern, chic style, with plenty of natural light and warm wooden flooring. In addition to hosting wedding celebrations, it also operates as an Italian steakhouse.

The Halston
Melville
This new addition to the Anthony Scotto family has everything you need on your wedding day. It features exciting cuisine that you can pair with perfect wines and signature cocktails. This is the perfect venue for up to 200 guests, and hosts one wedding at a time.

MORE: BOLI Preferred Venue Debuts Exciting Transformation to The Halston

Blackstone Steakhouse
Melville
Just like every couple, every wedding at Blackstone is refreshingly unique and special. Offering elegant, modern décor with quarried stone, rich natural wood and warmly glowing chandeliers and fireplaces, it sets the mood for an incredible and memorable wedding day.

Bayview House at Captain Bills
Bay Shore
The Bayview House is nestled off the South Shore and offers stunning views of the Great South Bay. It features shimmering chandeliers, a second floor bridal suite with a balcony overlooking the grand ballroom and cathedral windows showcasing panoramic water views. 

The Royalton on the Greens
Melville
This family-owned venue sits on top of a hill at the heart of a breathtaking golf course. Magical waterfalls will be the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos while guests enjoy beautiful views. Hidden by the gilded gates of a country club, Royalton on the Greens will feel like your own private oasis.

Water’s Edge
Centerport
This waterfront venue offers stunning views with the charm of the Gatsby styling on the Gold Coast of Long Island. Its event team offers exceptional service and an expertly trained staff, which is ready to make your dream wedding a reality.

And remember, no matter where you have your wedding, you will be in great hands with BOLI’s preferred venues!

In Brides of Long Island’s Monthly “Mrs.” series, we profile some of our members’ unforgettable weddings. This month, Stephanie discusses why changing their original plans led to the best photos.

As Stephanie and Sean were planning their April 18, 2025 wedding, they wanted to make sure that they acknowledged all of the important people in their lives – including two very special family members.

A Family Proposal

The newlyweds met at a Babylon bar right before the Covid pandemic, but due to the resulting shutdowns, didn’t start dating until about 18 months later. Fast forward two more years to 2023, and Sean proposed at an East End vineyard in front of their families. “His family was visiting from Ireland, so everyone was there,” Stepanie says. “Sean put a tag on our dog that said, ‘Mom, will you marry my daddy?’ It was so cute.”

Planning a Big Party

After they got engaged, Sean and Stephanie knew they wanted a huge party. “We were going to have so many people in the room on the same day – a lot of them international – so we wanted to make sure it was going to be a great party.” Because of this, she says the venue, the photographer and the DJ were the most important – and the first – vendors she booked.

Stephanie says that when she and Sean toured Larkfield, it was the only venue that excited him. “He loved the European feel of the venue,” she says. “And since we’re both foodies, we loved that they offered a huge variety at the cocktail hour. Between the atmosphere, ambiance and the food, we were both sold on Larkfield right away.”

Once the venue was booked, Sean and Stephanie focused on their other important vendors. For the DJ, they hired one of Sean’s friends who runs an entertainment company. “It was kind of a no-brainer because they used to work at a bar together, and it was the exact vibe we were looking for,” she says. “And they did not disappoint.” 

For photography and video, Stephanie says they were torn between The Glenmar Studio and Michael John Photography, both BOLI Preferred Vendors. Ultimately, they chose a package with Glenmar that included videography and a second photographer. On the day of their wedding, Stephanie realized that Glenmar’s second photographer was actually Mike from Michael John Photography! “We were super lucky with our photography because we got the best of both worlds,” she says. “I couldn’t be more thankful for them.”

MORE: 39 Questions to ask when choosing a DJ

Personal Touches and Honoring Loved Ones

In addition to a huge party, Stephanie and Sean wanted to make sure there were plenty of personal touches sprinkled throughout their day. From customized drink stirrers to a playlist packed with their favorite songs, the pair definitely pulled off their dream wedding. “Our signature cocktail was actually a drink that Sean made up when he used to work at a bar,” Stephanie says. “It’s not a real cocktail – but Sean and his friends went crazy when they saw it!”

The pair had a table with their family members’ pictures on it, as well as a memorial chair for Stephanie’s grandfather who passed away before their wedding day. They also made sure to highlight their closest loved ones: Sean’s father was his best man, and their dog was their flower girl. And not waiting to leave her mother out, “I did a special dance with her to a song she used to sing to me and my sister growing up.” Stephanie adds that a lot of the little things they incorporated throughout the day might have been very subtle to most of their guests, “but we knew they were there, and that’s what mattered the most to us.”

Those Special Moments

Stephanie and Sean planned to have their first look by their apartment on a path lined with cherry blossom trees. “It’s literally a walking path we take every day,” she says. Their photographers agreed it was a beautiful spot, so they ditched their original plans and decided to take all of their photos among the beautiful cherry blossoms. “The photos came out great, and it was so special that we can go back and revisit the spot whenever we want.”

Another special moment for the pair was sitting at their table and looking out at all of their loved ones. “Seeing everyone having a great time all together in one room was just an amazing feeling,” she says. “Especially for Sean’s family being all together not just in one room but on one continent. It was a truly special day.”

MORE: 7 of the Best Wedding Invitation Vendors on Long Island

Perfect Planning

All of the vendors they booked went above and beyond. Their florist, Vivian from Lindenhurst Village Florist, “gave us extra flowers for our cake, and for my grandpa’s memorial chair,” Stephanie says. “She is so easy to work with, and a saint of a woman.” 

Stephanie says her photos from The Glenmar Studio came out phenomenal. “Our video came out amazing too,” she adds. “And the best part was it only took them a week to get it back to us! They even gave us a reel for Instagram, which they put to our first dance. I loved all of their attention to detail.”

Stephanie says that the BOLI Facebook page really helped her in researching vendors. “I had a spreadsheet with my own notes, and then notes from other brides to help me choose,” she says. “The group really allowed me to see real reviews, which was super helpful.”

MORE: Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

As she and Sean relax on their Jamaican honeymoon, she wants other brides to know that no matter how stressful planning can be, their wedding day will be perfect. “Honestly, when we got to Larkfield, I noticed a table wasn’t decorated exactly how I wanted it, but then I realized that no one else would know that but me. So then I just relaxed and enjoyed the day. Because in the end, it’s about you and your spouse, everything else just falls into place.”

Vendors:
Venue: Larkfield
Photographer/Videographer: The Glenmar Studio, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
DJ: NRG Entertainment
Florist: Lindenhurst Village Florist
Hair: Ink & Ivy, a BOLI preferred vendor
Makeup: ZORIGLAM
Dress: Village Bridal, a BOLI preferred vendor
Tuxedos: Men’s Wearhouse Glen Cove
Transportation: Sir Oliver, a BOLI preferred vendor
Flower preservation: La Boda Flores

This article brought to you by Michael John Photography, a Brides of Long Island Preferred Vendor!

Want to say “I do” abroad? Here’s how to choose the best destination for your destination wedding

You love being a bride of Long Island, but your ideal wedding day would happen…well, on another kind of Island. 

Plenty of brides want to get married somewhere other than home. And that’s great! Destination weddings add excitement and novelty to your big day. But how do you go about choosing the perfect destination? While you may have a few places in mind, there are some important factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you pick the best destination for your destination wedding.

• MORE: 7 Reasons to Have a Destination Wedding

Decide on your budget 

Solidifying your budget is the first — and most important — thing you should do. You don’t want to get your heart set on a location you can’t afford, and you don’t want to go into massive debt just for one day. 

Before you start searching “Italian villa weddings,” have a solid budget in place. 

Brainstorm with your fiancé 

You’re thinking an oceanside ceremony and reception on the pool deck, but they’re thinking cocktail hour at the lodge and a first dance by the fire place. Make sure you and your fiancé are on the same page, and if you’re not, find a compromise.

Even if you both know exactly where you want to get married, have a few other destination options in mind. You may find that your first choice is out of your budget, or that it won’t work for some other reason.

Think about your VIPs

Let’s go back to that oceanside ceremony. It’s your dream, but have you thought about how your grandmother with a walker will make it down to the shore? Or how your bridesmaid who’ll be 7 months pregnant will feel about flying internationally?

While it would be impossible to make decisions that make everyone happy, you should think about the people that you absolutely want in attendance. If they have mobility concerns or health issues, that may limit the destinations you should consider. You may also want to do a bit of research on accessibility at the destinations on your list.

Consider the weather

You’ve decided that October is the best month for your wedding, but October is not such a great month in the Caribbean. Why? Hurricane season. There’s nothing stopping you from planning a tropical wedding anyway, but just know you’ll be taking a huge chance on the weather. 

When you’ve narrowed down your choices, check the seasonal weather patterns at each destination. That could make your decision a lot easier. 

• MORE: Honeymoon Destinations That Won’t Break the Bank

Research marriage laws 

This is a big one if you’re considering international locations. There are some places that require couples to be physically present in the country for a certain amount of time before getting legally married.

If you don’t want to have a legal ceremony before or after your wedding day, and you don’t want to spend weeks (or more) in your destination’s country, you may have to look at other destinations instead.

Compare pricing

You’re stuck between two different destinations that both seem perfect. Now’s the time to get into the nitty gritty — money. One destination may be hundreds (or even thousands) more than the other. If both would be equally appealing, going with the cheaper option could give you some extra spending money to splurge on fun extras. 

Be sure to also compare prices of area vendors, lodging, and transportation!

Search for reviews and inspo

Now that you’ve gotten your final choices on a list, take some time to read reviews and look at previous weddings. You’ll get a sense of exactly how your day would go, and you’ll be able to scope out a vendor team you can trust.

Plus, seeing real weddings could give you some great ideas for your own big day!

If the thought of planning your destination wedding seems overwhelming, check out one of BOLI’s preferred destination wedding and honeymoon specialists!

• MORE: Find incredible destination wedding vendors on Ring Leader

If diamonds aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other beautiful stones you can get.

Whether you’ve been planning your wedding since you were a little girl, or you’re just starting to think about getting engaged, you might have thought about what type of engagement ring you’d like to wear. But what happens when diamonds aren’t necessarily your best friend? Don’t worry! There are plenty of other beautiful and unique stones you can consider for your engagement ring. Here are nine engagement ring stones that aren’t diamonds.

Sapphires
These stones are great because they can come in several different colors. You can even choose a white or colorless hue that could closely resemble a diamond. And what’s great about these is they are known for their durability, which makes them perfect for everyday wear.

Rubies
Channel your inner Dorothy and get yourself a bright red gemstone! They are one of the hardest stones, second only to diamonds, so they are also perfect for your unique engagement ring.

Emeralds
These green gemstones associated with elegance and glam can set you apart from the rest. While they are a bit softer than other stones, they are a great engagement ring option if set properly.

Moissanites
While not a natural stone, these lab-created stones can match the brilliance of a diamond. They are becoming increasingly popular because of their lower cost and high durability.

MORE: How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?

Topaz
Another stone that comes in a variety of colors such as yellow, blue and pink. This is also a cost-effective gem that is a great, unique alternative to a diamond engagement ring.

Aquamarine
If blue is your favorite color, this vibrant gem could be perfect for you. It’s known for its calming and soothing powers. So not only could your engagement ring be beautiful, it could bring calm to your life.

Garnet
Another option for a vibrant red engagement ring. Garnets are also gaining popularity as a great option that isn’t a diamond. These are also a more affordable option.

MORE: What To Do If You Don’t Like Your Engagement Ring

Amethyst
If you want your left hand to sparkle and stand out, this purple gemstone could be your favorite. Not only is it a unique stone, it’s another affordable option for an engagement ring stone.

Opal
Opals are a very unique colorful gemstone. Depending on which angle you look at your ring, you can catch a glimpse of another color, setting this stone apart from the rest.

When deciding what engagement ring stone is perfect for you, it’s important to consider durability, budget, color, settings and any extra care requirements to keep your ring looking sparkly and new.

MORE: 8 Popular Diamond Shapes — Which One Should You Choose?

Whatever stone you like the best, it’s important to relay this information to your future spouse so they know exactly what you’re looking for. And remember, putting a ring on it is just the beginning to this amazing next chapter as you get ready to be a wife.