BOLI Brooke Skrocki Critically Injured in Memorial Day Boating Accident; Fundraiser Started

The May 25th incident left Brooke Skrocki with life-altering injuries. A fundraiser was established by her family.

A Hamptons boat crash has left a mom and Bride of Long Island critically injured. 

On May 25, BOLI Brooke Skrocki, her fiancé, and their two young daughters were onboard a fishing boat that crashed into the Shinnecock Canal jetty. While Skrocki’s daughters Emma, 6, and Ava, 2, were not harmed, Skrocki was left with severe injuries and faces a long road to recovery.

“She’s looking at a year of intensive rehabilitation and will require considerable support,” Skrocki’s aunt, Melissa Barravecchio, said in a GoFundMe she established for her niece. “Brooke’s progress…has taken some steps backward but the family is holding strong that she will continue to fight. We need all the prayers we can get to help send Brooke the strength she needs to heal.”

Skrocki is described as “the sweetest soul and the best mom” by friend Alexa Licciardi. Similar sentiments were shared across social media as those in her circle learned of the accident. 

“Skrocki was a huge part of my childhood,” said Riley Werner in a Facebook post. “She feels like a bonus sister to me. Anyone that knows her knows she lights up any room she’s in.”

In addition to Barravecchio’s GoFundMe campaign, Skrocki’s cousin Kristina Gries has started a Giveinkind fundraiser to support Emma and Ava during their mother’s recovery.

To make a contribution towards Skrocki’s recovery, click here.

To make a contribution towards Skrocki’s daughters, click here.

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

Choosing the right wedding venue is almost as important as choosing the right fiancé!

All kidding aside — your venue sets the stage for your perfect wedding day. Whether your want a sleek and sophisticated affair or a cozy boho get-together, your venue provides the framework for everything that happens. 

Nassau County is home to some of the most beautiful wedding venues on Long Island. If you’re walking down the aisle between New Hyde Park and Oyster Bay, check out these best wedding venues in Nassau County! 

• MORE: Great Long Island Wedding Venues

Westbury Manor
Westbury

Westbury Manor is home to 5 acres of lush landscapes and beautiful greenery. Inside you’ll find a stunning ballrooms, Gold Coast architecture, and cocktail spaces that can fit up to 300 guests. 

• MORE: Brides are Treated Like Part of the Family at Westbury Manor

The Inn at New Hyde Park
New Hyde Park

Established in 1938, this Long Island landmark can host anywhere from 10 to 500 of your closest friends and family. The Inn has a staff of event planners and culinary experts — all with a combined 200 years of experience! 

The Lannin
East Meadow

Located inside Eisenhower Park, this fully renovated venue can customize the luxury wedding of your dreams. The Lannin is surrounded by lush scenery and offers a modern look, an award-winning chef, and a staff of passionate professionals.

• MORE: Customize the Luxury Wedding of Your Dreams at The Lannin  

Fox Hollow
Woodbury

If you’re looking for endless options, Fox Hollow is your venue! From on-site ceremonies, outdoor gardens, multiple reception rooms and even a luxury hotel, Fox Hollow has everything to offer brides of Long Island. 

Opus Steakhouse
Jericho

Opus is more than just a steakhouse — it’s a re-imagined North Shore mansion! There’s dramatic spaces, lush gardens, and even a suspended wine loft for a truly unique photo op. Impress up to 225 guests at Opus!

Heritage Club at Bethpage
Farmingdale

Did you know that the Heritage Club at Bethpage hosted the 2021 Brides of Long Island Summer Soirée? Offering the finest service and cuisine, The Heritage Club at Bethpage has grand chandeliers, beautiful wooden floors, and a charming gazebo with the Bethpage Black golf course as your backdrop. 

The Mansion at Oyster Bay
Woodbury

A ‘Great Gatsby’ feel awaits you at The Mansion at Oyster Bay! A roaring fireplace, marble floors, a grand staircase, and a beautiful outdoor patio will graciously host up to 500 guests. 

The Barn at Old Bethpage Restoration Village
Old Bethpage

With over 8,000-square-feet of indoor and outdoor spaces, The Barn at Old Bethpage blends rustic comforts with modern charm. Up to 300 of your guests can enjoy architectural details like high ceilings with exposed wooden beams, country fields, and an authentic farmhouse.

Swan Club on the Harbor
Roslyn

Breathtaking views and impeccable landscapes make Swan Club on the Harbor a truly unique venue. This Gold Coast-era estate dates back to the 1600s, and a recent restoration has combined old world charm with modern luxury. 

• MORE: Celebrate Your Day in Gold Coast Perfection at Swan Club on the Harbor

The Mansion at Woodside Club
Muttontown

Elegant. Charming. Luxurious. Just a few of the words that describe The Mansion at Woodside Club — a one-of-a-kind property that boasts beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces. Enjoy an open-plan ballroom and a staff of seasoned professionals!

Pine Hollow Club
East Norwich

Pine Hollow Club is a perfect blend of old world charm and modern sophistication. This private club features historic architecture, multiple ballrooms, and plenty of gorgeous outdoor gardens.

• MORE: Enjoy Premier Long Island venue Pine Hollow Club — All to Yourself

Bayview on the Water
Freeport

Bayview on the Water is nestled in Freeport’s iconic Nautical Mile, featuring three levels of panoramic bay views. Entertain up to 300 guests for your formal wedding or 400 for your cocktail affair! 

Rare650
Syosset

For brides that want a unique dining experience with a modern flare, Rare650 is the ideal venue. With several event spaces, a floor-to-ceiling wine room, and a brightly-lit conservatory, Rare650 adds a touch of sophistication to your wedding. 

Riviera Waterfront Mansion
Massapequa

Say your vows on the water! Featuring stunning views and rustic indoor spaces, Riviera Waterfront Mansion offers the best of Long Island’s breathtaking scenery. Perfect for brides looking for a waterfront locale. 

The Royalton Mansion
Roslyn Heights

Tucked away in Roslyn Heights, this colonial estate features 10 acres of stunning greenery and English gardens. The Royalton mansion transports your guests to a time of luxury and opulence.

• MORE: Find great venues on Ring Leader!

In Brides of Long Island’s Monthly “Mrs.” series, we profile some of our members’ unforgettable weddings. This month, we spoke with Briana and Brittany about which vendors went above and beyond to make their wedding day special.

Briana and Brittany knew some of the vendors they wanted for their Oct. 6, 2024 wedding – even before they got engaged. They never could have imagined just how magical their day would turn out, thanks in part to their venue, photographer and videographer.

A Blossoming Friendship

Briana and Brittany have been friends since the ninth grade. “It wasn’t romantic at all at first,” says Briana. “After college, though, things started shifting.” Brittany says she was the one who developed deeper feelings for her friend first. “I was worried it would change our dynamic because we were such close friends,” she explains. Once she let Briana know her feelings, Brittany was happy she took that chance. The pair dated for about four years before they got engaged. “We moved in together, and knew we were going to get married,” says Brittany. So, they made a pact at the beginning of 2022, they were both going to propose to each other, but they were going to keep the details and the date of the proposal a surprise from each other.

Brittany proposed to Briana first in August of 2022 at a water lantern festival. Briana proposed the following month at a botanical garden. And yes, Briana had the date planned before Brittany proposed. “I had the date picked out for a while, as it was close to the anniversary of one of the first concerts we went to as a couple,” explains Briana.

Planning Prep

Once Brittany proposed in August, the couple started putting together a list of vendors they were interested in. In fact, they had been looking into their videographer, Catherine J Films, before they were even engaged. “We had seen her work at our friends’ wedding,” says Briana. “So I bookmarked her Instagram for when we were ready.” 

They started seriously looking at vendors by November of 2022. “Briana had a spreadsheet and kept us on track with our planning process,” says Brittany. “She also used the Brides of Long Island Facebook group for everything! From things like putting together a planning timeline to putting together our wedding day timeline, it was so helpful!”

While photography and videography were most important for the women, they both wanted the perfect venue as well. Finding one was challenging, as they each had different visions for their wedding day. “I’d be happy getting married in a barn,” says Brittany. “And Briana was looking for something very modern.” 

They scoured over tons of Long Island venue reviews, and then fell in love with the Watermill – a BOLI Preferred Vendor. “That was the best decision we made, hands down,” says Brittany. They loved the Watermill’s outdoor spaces and menu variety, but what really sealed the deal were their suites. “A lot of the venues we looked at had bridal suites and groom’s suites, and some of the groom’s suites were sort of masculine,” says Brittany. “As two brides getting married, we didn’t want to have to choose who would go to the groom’s suite. At the Watermill, both spaces were very gender neutral, so that made us feel comfortable.”

MORE: 46 Great Long Island Wedding Venues

A Cut Above the Rest

The beautiful venue and delicious food were not the only things that stood out at the Watermill. “Rob, our contact at the Watermill, was truly amazing,” says Brittany. “He was in constant communication with us. Any time we had a question, he would get back to us right away.” And if the pair hit a roadblock with anything – from choosing a DJ to figuring out logistics as a same-sex couple – Rob had an answer. “If we had something we needed to figure out, we’d contact Rob right away,” says Briana. “And he would always be polite and ask us what we wanted so that he could make it happen.” He would even offer up tips and suggestions from previous same-sex Watemill couples. “He was such an important part of making our day special,” says Briana.

Another vendor that made their day special? Their photographer, Photo by Lore. Briana says that when they booked Lore, she was relatively new at photographing weddings. “We took a chance on her because we felt we clicked after speaking with her,” she says. What really stood out to them was when Lore asked to go to their final appointment at the Watermill so she could check out the space ahead of time. “We walked around with her as she made suggestions of where she thought the first looks should be, where photos with our family should be, etc.” says Brittany. “That put us at ease and made the day much smoother, since we knew ahead of time where we needed to be.”

And who can forget the videographer Brittany and Briana found even before they were engaged? Catherine was fantastic. “I would book her a million times over,” says Briana. They both felt from the first conversation with Catherine that they knew her forever. Doing a pre-wedding shoot helped them get comfortable being filmed. “She had us walk around a park and just talk about ourselves,” says Briana. “And then she incorporated some of that into our wedding video. And it’s just beautiful! I watch it at least once a week!”

MORE: 10 Unique First Look Ideas

Personalized Touches and Moments

The general theme of their wedding was “garden celestial,” says Brittany with a laugh. “I’m a big flower girl, and Briana loves the moon and stars, so we ran with both of those.” They did several DIY projects for their signs, as well as their centerpieces. “We just wanted to make sure it featured us as a couple,” says Briana. 

As a treat for their guests, Briana’s father provided them with a Frito-Lay chips exit station. “It was a huge hit,” says Briana. “Everyone was leaving with their arms full of chip bags. And we loved how unique it was!”

Brittany’s favorite moment of the day was their first look. “Briana and I always do fashion checks with our outfits! So choosing a wedding gown without her help was so difficult,” she says. The pair made it a point to not share details of their gowns until their first look. “It was the longest and only secret we’ve kept from each other, and it was such a special moment,” she says.

For Briana, her favorite moment was the quiet in the bridal suite between their cocktail hour and reception. “It was great to sit together and really take in what the day was about,” she says.

MORE: 9 Wedding DIY Ideas That Any BOLI Can Tackle

Do What Makes Sense For You

Both Brittany and Briana want other brides to know that it’s important that your wedding day is about you and your future spouse. “As a same-sex couple, it was hard to figure out who to set up our day, because the industry can still be somewhat traditional,” says Briana. “But it was important for us to break that mindset and do what made sense for us.” They add that whether couples are same-sex or not, it’s important they also do what makes sense for them and what they want on their wedding day. “If we weren’t completely happy with something, we kept looking for what would make us happy – even if that meant making things ourselves!” says Briana.

“There is no one correct way to plan your wedding,” Brittany adds. “Figure out what you want to happen, and then lean into that and feel empowered to make your own decisions.”

Vendors:
Venue: Watermill Caterers, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Photographer: Photo by Lore
Videography: Catherine J Films
DJ: In the Mood DJ Production
Florist: Towers Flowers Nesconset
Hair/Makeup: Bridal Rush, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Dress: Northfork Bridal Shoppe, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Cake: Campbell’s Bakery, a BOLI Preferred Vendor,
Bridal Party Tuxedos: The Black Tux
Transportation: Camelot Limos
Hotel Room Block: Hyatt Regency Long Island, a BOLI Preferred Vendor

Long Island has some amazing wedding venues. Book a tour for these must-see locations.

You’re just engaged, and you have no idea where to start! There are hundreds of venues across the Island – everything from small restaurants to venues with a water view to actual castles. The possibilities are endless. Well, BOLI is here to help!

But why not book tours at some of Long Island’s great wedding venues? Here are 46 great Long Island wedding venues that are not only preferred venues of the BOLI family, but are bound to have something to make one of the most important days of your life the best day ever!

Westbury Manor
Westbury
Westbury Manor’s lush landscape is the perfect backdrop for your wedding. Set upon 5 acres, this mansion has several ballrooms and cocktail rooms to fit up to 300 guests.

MORE: “We Make Our Home Your Home.” Brides Are Treated Like Part of the Family at Westbury Manor

The Crescent Beach Club
Bayville
Imagine saying “I do” at sunset on a white sand beach, surrounded by palm trees with the blue water behind you. Well, you don’t have to travel off Long Island to do it! The Crescent Beach Club is on the beautiful Long Island Sound that gives couples a plethora of choices when it comes to photos and beyond. Its cocktail hour features steel pan drums, and its ballroom features floor-to-ceiling windows for breathtaking views of the beach and water at any time of day or night. And you can keep the party going on the beach after the reception with tiki torches and fire pits. The beach club’s capacity is 425.

MORE: The Crescent Beach Club Offers Paradise in Your Own Backyard 

Sunset Harbour
East Patchogue
Located in its own marina, 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 recently renovated 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 Inn at New Hyde Park
New Hyde Park
This Long Island landmark was established in 1938. Its staff of event planners, management and culinary artists have a combined 200 years experience! The Inn can accommodate from 10-500 of your guests.

The Old Field Club
East Setauket
The Old Field Club offers waterfront views along the north shore with rustic yet elegant charm. On the smaller side, this intimate venue can accommodate up to 180 guests.

The Lannin
East Meadow
This fully renovated venue is in the heart of Long Island, located inside Eisenhower Park golf course. If you’re looking to customize the luxury wedding of your dreams, the Lannin is the perfect place for you. From its modern classic look to its award-winning chef, the Lannin is surrounded by lush scenery for a wedding your guests will talk about for years to come.

MORE: Customize the Luxury Wedding of Your Dreams at The Lannin

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. Couples can choose between indoor or outdoor ceremonies. The menus feature locally sourced products and American classics.

Fox Hollow
Woodbury
This state-of-the-art venue is located on Long Island’s Gold Coast, and gives couples plenty of options, including three different rooms to accommodate any size wedding party from 50-285 guests! It has several options for an on-site ceremony, including an outdoor garden. And it has an on-site hotel for couples to turn a wedding day into a wedding weekend! A truly full-service venue, Fox Hollow is sure to have something for every bride.

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. Menus range from prime-age steaks to fresh seafood and sushi.

Opus Steakhouse
Jericho
This re-imagined north shore mansion can be yours for your wedding day! It offers dramatic spaces offering endless views of lush gardens, a suspended wine loft and an open kitchen. To say Opus is unique is an understatement, and it’s sure to wow your up to 225 guests.

360 East at Montauk Downs
Montauk
Head to The End to celebrate your wedding day in the charm of a beach town with an elegant setting. Wow your guests, which can be up to 200, with views of Montauk. As a bonus, say your vows with the Montauk Lighthouse as your backdrop!

Heritage Club at Bethpage
Bethpage
The Heritage Club at Bethpage combines the richness of Long Island’s Heritage with the finest service and cuisine. Say your vows in a room with a grand chandelier on beautiful wooden floors, or outside in a charming gazebo with the Bethpage Black course as your backdrop. The ballroom offers floor to ceiling windows overlooking 1,500 acres of rolling greens. It can accommodate up to 500 guests.

The Mansion at Oyster Bay
Woodbury
Have your wedding with an authentic Gatsby era flare with modern accents and amenities. Your breath will be taken away by just the foyer alone with a roaring fireplace amid marble floors and a grand staircase. The ballroom features an outdoor patio allowing for an indoor/outdoor cocktail hour. It can accommodate up to 500 guests.

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 can host your ceremony, inside or outside, and reception. The cocktail hour can include a farm-to-table station with bison and flounder sliders, North Fork oyster chowder, salads and so much more. It offers a variety of enhancement packages, as well as all-inclusive packages for Saturday or Sunday day weddings.

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. Coindre Hall can hold up to 200 guests for a night full of historic and elegant memories.

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.

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.

MORE: See more about what the Bourne Mansion has to offer

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. Make it a full wedding weekend, with 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, able to fit up to 250 guests.

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. These amenities allow brides tons of options to get ready, a rehearsal dinner or just a day of relaxation before the big day!

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

The Barn at Old Bethpage Restoration
Old Bethpage
The Barn offers a rustic yet elegant venue for your wedding, with over 8,000-square-feet of indoor and outdoor event space. It fits 300 guests, and features high ceilings with exposed wooden beams. Couples can choose to have an on-site ceremony overlooking the gardens or inside the ballroom. The country fields and authentic farmhouse are sure to leave your guests impressed.

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. And who wouldn’t love a nine-station cocktail hour and a four-course entrée dinner. Giorgio’s fits up to 300 guests.

Atlantis Banquets & Events
Riverhead
When you hear Atlantis, you probably think 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

Swan Club on the Harbor
Roslyn
Located on the harbor, Swan Club on the Harbor offers breathtaking views and picturesque backdrops. It is located on an estate that dates back to the 1600s and features a mansion constructed by the co-founder of Con Edison. Purchased in 2018 by restaurateur brothers they restored it to its Gold Coast perfection. It can hold up to 350 guests.

MORE: Celebrate Your Day in Gold Coast Perfection at Swan Club on the Harbor

The Mansion at Woodside Club
Muttontown
This one-of-a-kind mansion property is sure to be the perfect venue to host the best day of your life. The Mansion at Woodside Club features indoor and outdoor options for your ceremony as well as an open-plan ballroom.

Pine Hollow Club
East Norwich
This private club offers a bit of old and new to make your wedding day perfect. It features historic architecture with modern finesse. Pine Hollow Club features multiple ballrooms and plenty of outdoor gardens to make your day unforgettable.

MORE: Pine Hollow Club offers beauty, sophistication, and versatility on your wedding day

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. Customize your dream wedding at Bellport Country Club.

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.

Bayview on the Water
Freeport
Located right on the water on the beautiful Nautical Mile, Bayview on the Water offers three levels of panoramic open bay views. The brand new venue can accommodate up to 300 guests for formal affairs, and up to 400 for cocktail receptions.

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.

Rare650
Syosset
Rare, indeed. This modern restaurant offers a unique dining experience with several event spaces to choose from for your wedding. From the main dining area with a floor-to-ceiling wine room to the bright and airy conservatory, Rare650 is the perfect venue to customize your perfect wedding day.

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 The Halston hosts one wedding at a time.

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.

The Bayview House at Captain Bill’s
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. From intimate affairs to grand galas, the Bayview House is ready to host your special day.

Breeze Hill Farm
Peconic
Featuring a 75-acre orchard and an 8,500 square feet main lodge, Breeze Hill Farm offers unique and stunning orchard and beach weddings.

Soundview Caterers
Bayville
Soundview Caterers are ready to maintain their legacy of extraordinary service and culinary excellence on your wedding day. Nestled along the “Gold Coast” of Long Island’s North Shore, Soundview features spectacular views of the Long Island Sound and neighboring coastline.

Riviera Waterfront Mansion
Massapequa
At Riviera Waterfront Mansion, your guests can watch you say your vows or sip cocktails right along the water. From their stunning ballroom to its expansive cocktail hour space outside, they’re ready to plan your special day.

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.

The Royalton Mansion
Roslyn Heights
This historic mansion with a Great Gatsby-era feel is tucked away in Roslyn Heights. The colonial estate features 10 acres of wooded arbor and English gardens, transporting your guests to a time of luxury and opulence.

Wherever you choose to have your wedding, just know that you’ll be in great hands!

Getting married is a romantic affair, but it’s also a religious and legal one. Here are answers to the most common questions about wedding ceremonies

You may be more focused on playlists, cocktail hour menus, and first dance choreography, but your ceremony is one of the most important parts of your wedding. This is the ritual that will unite you as a married couple, and it’s filled with beauty and reverence.

Your wedding ceremony is a reflection of your story, your love, and your beliefs. Most couples want to personalize this moment with elements they choose. However, some requests might mean your wedding ceremony won’t be legally or religiously valid.

Here are a few common questions that brides of Long Island ask about wedding ceremonies.

• MORE: 14 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Wedding Officiant

1. “Can priests marry outside of the church?”

This is one of the most common questions our members ask. According to the Code of Cannon Law, “marriages are to be celebrated in a parish where either of the contracting parties has a domicile…with the permission of the proper ordinary or proper pastor, marriages can be celebrated elsewhere.”

So technically yes — priests can marry outside of the church, but permission must be granted from the local bishop. And it’s highly, highly unlikely the bishop will grant you permission unless it’s under extreme extenuating circumstances (your church has been destroyed by a natural disaster, your fiancé is seriously ill and in the hospital, etc).

This is the case if you want your wedding ceremony to be a full catholic mass, and you want to receive the sacrament of marriage. If you’re not interested in a full mass, the rules get a little grayer. Father Michael Callahan, of BOLI Preferred Vendor Interfaith Jewish Catholic Weddings, performs ceremonies along with Rabbi David Katz. 

2. “Can my friend/family member be my officiant?”

Yes! Your friend or family member can officiate your wedding by obtaining a one-day New York state authorization.

3. “How long before my ceremony do I need to get my marriage license?”

You’ll need your marriage license at least 24 hours before your ceremony. Your license will be valid for 60 days (so don’t get it more than 2 months in advance!)

4. “Do I need to get my marriage license in the same town/county where the ceremony will be?”

Nope — you can obtain your marriage license from any town or city clerk’s office in New York state. 

5. “How long should my ceremony be?”

This is totally up to you!

If you’re getting married in a church or synagouge, your ceremony length will depend on the rites and rituals that must be included for your specific religious institution. If your ceremony is non-religious, most ceremonies typically last between 20-30 minutes. But again, length is up to you! There’s no legal minimum requirement. 

6. “Do I have to include anything specific in my vows?”

Legally, the only thing you have to include in your vows is a declaration that both you and your fiancé are taking each other as spouses. 

7. “Will my ceremony be legal if just me, my fiancé, and the officiant are present?”

Unfortunately, no — you’ll need at least one witness other than your officiant that could testify in a court of law. But hey, did you know your four legged friend can be one of your witnesses?

• MORE: Reduce ceremony stress with Ring Leader

In Brides of Long Island’s “Am I a Bridezilla?” the BOLI team weighs in on an anonymous submission asking that dreaded question. What do you think?

Dear BOLI,

My fiancé is going to Miami for his bachelor party in two weeks. It sounds like it’s going to be an amazing trip and I know they’ll all have fun.

The thing is, I want to go too! My fiancé and I really are best friends and I think even he would say I’m a pretty chill person. If I go I would let them have their “boy time” but I’d hang out with them for dinner and events in the evening. I get along well with everyone going and we all hang out together at home. It’s not like I’d be intrusive. I also know they’ll be less likely to go to a strip club if I’m there.

When I told my mom I was thinking about tagging along with my fiancé she called me a bridezilla. She said I was getting my own trip to Nashville a week later, and that it was crazy for me to suggest going with them. Would I be a bridezilla if I went?

Signed,

Tagging along

• MORE: Setting Boundaries and Expectations for Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties

Dear Tagging along,

Yes, going on your fiancé’s bachelor trip with him would make you a bridezilla.

To be fair, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with doing a joint bachelor/bachelorette trip if it’s planned that way and what both of you want. I’ve been on a few of those myself and everyone enjoyed themselves.

The key words here though are planned that way and what both of you want. Your bachelorette trip and his bachelor trip have obviously been scheduled separately for a while, and whoever booked everything did so with the idea that you’d be taking your own trips. Throwing yourself into the mix now could really upend a lot their plans — chances are your fiancé’s groomsmen have already made reservations for dinners and events, and it’s not always as simple as calling places and adding one more person. It could also make the finances complicated, as they probably paid for at least some of their expenses up front based on a certain amount of people.

And while you and your fiancé may be best friends, it’s very possible that he’s been looking forward to his guy’s trip for a while. That doesn’t mean he loves you any less, it just means that we all enjoy some time with our friends sans partner. 

I want to point out something else you said — “I also know they’ll be less likely to go to a strip club if I’m there.” If you’re uncomfortable with the idea of your fiancé going to a strip club, you should address that now. You can absolutely put that boundary in place without having to go on the entire trip yourself. If you don’t trust that your wishes would be respected unless you were physically present, that’s a huge red flag. Discuss your feelings with your fiancé soon — before he boards the flight.   

• MORE: Delete bachelorette stress with Ring Leader

The newlyweds, who met at the University of Alabama, have been together for seven years.

Eagles quarterback and Super Bowl MVP Jalen Hurts confirmed in an interview with Men’s Health that he and longtime girlfriend Bry Burrows officially tied the knot.

The pair met in 2016 at the University of Alabama. Burrows was a sorority member, and Hurts was the school’s start quarterback, as well as a member of a fraternity. According to Essence, they dated on and off and went public with their relationship in 2023 at the NFC Championship celebration. According to Essence, Burrows is an AI partner for IBM.

Hurts told Essence they got engaged in September 2024 at an oceanfront venue. The speculation around their marriage started in February when Hurts was spotted wearing a band on his left ring finger.

Much like their relationship, details of their nuptials haven’t been disclosed. However, Hurts has discussed their supportive partnership. “I knew a long time ago,” Hurts previously told Essence about his relationship. “I mean, to this point in my life, that’s an irreplaceable feeling. I think that’s what allowed us to get to where we are now.”

During the day of his interview with Men’s Health, Hurts was holding a Post-it that read: “You are exactly where you are supposed to be. I love you. Follow God! I follow you.” It was signed, “B,” for Bryonna.

As you start your wedding planning, it’s important to decide if you should have a religious ceremony.

Whether you are religious or not, the question of should you have a religious ceremony will probably come up as you start wedding planning. Perhaps you are not, but your future spouse is. Or maybe your families are. Whatever the reason, it’s an important discussion to have with your future spouse. Below are some things to consider when deciding on (or against) a religious ceremony.

Brings a Spiritual/Deeper Meaning

A religious ceremony can bring you and your future spouse closer spiritually. Your ceremony may have a deeper meaning when religion – no matter the faith – is involved.

You May Have to Jump Through More Hoops

Some faiths require couples to attend counseling or classes, like Pre-Cana, before getting married. This can add more stress as you both take time out of your busy schedules to attend.

MORE: 14 Questions to Ask When Hiring an Officiant

Sharing Faith With One Another

Sharing your faith with each other can be special. And if one of you has to convert, that makes the ceremony even more meaningful.

The Ceremony May Feel Cold Depending on Your Religious Officiant

If you’re not very religious but want a religious ceremony, it could come off feeling cold – especially if you don’t know your officiant very well. To avoid this, it’s important to meet with them ahead of time to avoid any awkwardness on the day.

Sharing Your Faith With Guests

A religious ceremony is a way to share your faith with your guests. It could bring you closer to them, and could allow them the opportunity to learn about a faith they otherwise wouldn’t be exposed to.

It May Make Some Guests Feel Excluded

On the flip side, a religious ceremony may make some guests feel excluded. Perhaps you are getting married in a Catholic church, and some of your guests are Jewish. They could feel awkward not knowing responses or prayers.

MORE: How to Incorporate a Special Guest Who’s Not in Your Bridal Party

Easier For Your Future Children

Some faiths like to have couples to be married in religious ceremonies in order to have their children be a part of the church or synagogue. This could mean a baptism, a bat mitzvah or bar mitzvah. Getting married at a religious institution could make things easier for your future children.

The Ceremony May Take Longer

Depending on the type of religious ceremony, it could be longer than average. This shouldn’t be a problem as long as you know ahead of time, and plan your timeline for the day accordingly.

Logistics

Religious ceremonies are often held at places of worship, like a church or synagogue. This not only adds travel time to get to your reception, but there are a lot of moving pieces involved when your ceremony is not at your venue. But not to worry! You’ll know all of this ahead of time, and you’ll be able to plan your timeline and transportation accordingly.

MORE: The importance of an unplugged ceremony

As with all of your wedding planning, the decision on a religious ceremony is entirely up to you and your future spouse. And remember – if some guests opt to skip the religious ceremony for whatever reason, that’s okay. Everyone has different opinions on religion and that’s not a reflection of you, your future spouse or your families. The most important thing is that you are doing what will make you both happy.

You’ve got exciting news! How should you tell the world? We’ll break down whether you should ‘hard launch’ or ‘soft launch’ your engagement. 

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

Social media makes it easy to stay in touch with literally everyone — from distant relatives to old high school besties. Our networks are bigger than ever, and that means you’ll have a much larger audience for the major events in your life.

That is, if you choose to make those “major events” public knowledge. There’s nothing that says you have to announce every single detail of your life to everyone you’ve ever known, but there is something nice about sharing joyful news (like an engagement!) with your followers.

So now that you’ve got the ring, should you ‘hard launch’ or ‘soft launch’ your engagement?

• MORE: When Should You Have an Engagement Party?

‘Hard Launch’ vs. ‘Soft Launch’

What do these terms mean anyway?

A ‘hard launch’ is a bold public announcement that leaves no questions asked. Think close up selfies with your ring in prominent view, with captions like “I said yes!” posted hours (or even minutes!) after your proposal. You may tag your friends and family in the post, change your Instagram bio to “the future Mrs.” with a ring emoji, or make a TikTok chronicling your relationship with your engagement as the finale. 

A ‘soft launch’ is way more subtle. There’s no close ups of the ring, no captions about wedding planning, no juicy details or highlight reels. You may post an image with your ring in view, or talk about how much you love your partner, but there’s nothing there that explicitly states your engagement.

Why choose a ‘hard launch’?

Big announcements come with big fanfare. If you love seeing your likes and comments skyrocket, a hard launch of your engagement will surely do the trick. Sharing your news in an exciting way adds even more excitement and momentum to your news. You’ll be flooded with well wishes and congratulations, sometimes from people you haven’t spoken to in ages. It’s a great way to connect (or re-connect) with lots of different people in your lives.

It also saves time. No need to text all your friends and family members individually, a hard launch does it for you. Plus, all of the “engagement” (no pun intended) you get will boost your post in the algorithm, which means more people in your network will see it. 

• MORE: 11 Places to Take Engagement Photos on Long Island

Why choose a ‘soft launch’?

You may decide that you’d like to celebrate your engagement quietly at first, with only your fiancé. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that! Soft launches allow for greater intimacy and privacy, which many of us crave with the constant presence of social media. 

Soft launches also allow you to control the spread of information. While everyone will be overjoyed at your news, let’s face it — we all have that friend or family member that will be a bit hurt if they aren’t the FIRST to find out. With a soft launch, you can tell your VIPs first so they’ll remain feeling very important.

Additionally, a soft launch may be the way to go if you’re planning on a small wedding. If you tell your whole network right away, chances are they’ll be some people expecting an invite that would have never made the guest list. 

Should you hard launch or soft launch your engagement?

The decision is totally up to you…and your fiancé. 

It’s super important that both of you are on the same page where announcements are concerned — especially if one of you is a lot more active on social media than the other. Before you post anything, talk it over with them and come to an agreement (or, at the very least, a compromise). You’ll both want to feel as if your boundaries are respected.

There are pros and cons to both, and one decision is not better than the other. The right decision is the one that’s right for you and your fiancé!

Deciding not to ‘launch’ at all

There’s absolutely nothing that says you have to make your engagement public in any way. If you’re more comfortable keeping the news entirely private, then that’s the way to go!

• MORE: Launch into Ring Leader for stress-free wedding planning  

In Brides of Long Island’s Monthly “Mrs.” series, we profile some of our members’ unforgettable weddings. This month, Jen talks about the most important things she was looking for on her wedding day.

Jen and Omar got engaged at the end of 2022, but they bought a house before diving into wedding planning. With just about 10 months to plan, Jen and Omar focused on what was important to them – a smaller wedding surrounded by friends, family and good food.

A Traditional Proposal

Jen and Omar met at Queens College in 2015, as she was earning her post-master’s degree and he was finishing up his undergraduate degree in music. They were both leads in the opera Così fan tutte by W.A. Mozart – Omar as the tenor role and Jen as the soprano. “We actually met in our German diction class, and started rehearsing together,” said Jen. “By the end of the year, we were officially dating.”

Omar proposed on New Year’s Eve in 2022. They had rented an AirBNB for the night, and he was down on one knee in the living room when she came out for dinner. “It was nice that it was just the two of us,” she said.

The following year, the pair focused on getting a house. “Once we closed on the co-op, we started wedding planning in February of 2024,” Jen says. “We were very traditional though, so he didn’t move in with me until about a month before the wedding.”

Food and Photography

Knowing they wanted a smaller wedding, Jen says that their initial searches for a venue were a little difficult. “We knew we didn’t want a huge venue, so at first we started looking at non-traditional venues, like steakhouses,” she says. In addition to a smaller venue, Jen and Omar wanted a venue that would serve Caribbean cuisine. “Omar and his family are from Jamaica, so it was important for us to have multicultural food at our wedding,” Jen says.

They found their perfect venue when they walked into Westbury Manor, a BOLI Preferred Vendor. “When we walked in, the staff was so welcoming,” she says. “The owner, Jerry Scotto, made us feel like part of the Westbury Manor family and he told us that they could have a Caribbean food station at the cocktail hour.” They booked their Nov, 9, 2024 wedding in the small garden room. “I was thrilled because it was a Saturday night.”

MORE: Brides Are Treated Like Part of the Family at Westbury Manor

Once they locked in their venue and church (St. Dominic’s Roman Catholic Church, where they both sing in the choir), Omar and Jen focused on finding a photographer. “Because we’re an interracial couple, it was important to find a photographer that could capture us well – to make sure everyone could be well-lit and look great,” Jen says. They chose Duet Photography & Video, who did not disappoint. “What I loved about them was when we met with them, they showed photos from other interracial couples they photographed, which were beautiful,” Jen says.

The rest of the vendors fell into place pretty quickly, including hair and makeup, and, of course, her brow girl Lacey from Arch Brow Suite. “I need to give a shoutout to Lacey!” Jen says. “She’s been doing my eyebrows for years, and she got me perfectly set up for my wedding.”

MORE: 39 Questions to Ask When Touring a Venue

A Duet to Remember

On their wedding day, Omar and Jen were married at St. Dominic’s by Father Chris Heller. Jen had worked with Father Heller for a few years before he transferred churches, so it was special that he returned to marry the couple. While the pair kept it traditional and didn’t have a first look, Jen did have a first look with her father. “It was so special to me because my father and I are very close,” she says.

Because their reception was later in the day, their photographer made sure to get special photos at the church in the daylight. “He was able to capture that golden hour light in the fall foliage, which is exactly what I was looking for,” she explains. During the reception, Jen and Omar performed a duet, “Fra gli amplessi in pochi istanti,” from the same Italian opera where they met.

Jen says that all of her vendors went above and beyond. From the amazing photos and videos to the service at Westbury Manor, everything was exceptional. She says that her hairstylist, Bri and her assistant, were amazing. “Bri immediately saw my dad’s hair was crazy that morning, so her assistant helped get him looking his best,” she says. “Her assistant was also amazing with my 9-year-old niece who had trouble explaining how she wanted her hair. She was patient and made her feel like a princess.” And the Caribbean food? “It was a hit! Everyone loved it,” she says.

Roll With the Punches

Jen loved using the search bar on the Brides of Long Island Facebook page. “I loved reading all of the reviews – the good and the bad,” she says. “Everyone is so honest, and it was so helpful in finding the perfect vendors for our wedding day.”

MORE: Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff

Now that the stress of buying a house and planning her wedding are behind her, Jen wants other brides to know that what’s going to happen is going to happen. She urges them not to sweat the small stuff. “I considered myself a chill bride, but I did get hung up on some little details toward the end of planning,” she says. “I got mono about a month before our wedding, which was pretty stressful, but there was nothing I could do but focus on getting better.” Being sick actually helped her decide on some last minute items – like favors – pretty quickly. In the end, she says the day is about you and your future spouse and starting your lives together. “Just roll with the punches, and everything will turn out amazing.”

Vendors:
Venue: Westbury Manor, a BOLI preferred vendor
Photographer/Videographer: Duet Photography & Video
DJ: DJ Body Rock
Florist: N.T. Designs
Hair: BChic Hair Boutique
Makeup: Makeup by Vic
Brows: Arch Brow Suite
Photo Booth: Ovation Photo Booth
Dress: Lotus Bridal in Mineola
Cake: Francesco’s Bakery
Tuxedos: Men’s Wearhouse
Transportation: All-Star Transportation, a BOLI preferred vendor