8 Unique Ideas for Your Proposal

Ready to pop the question? Here are a few ways to make your proposal special.

BOLI, this one is for your future spouse 😉

You’ve been wanting to propose for a while, and you want to make it special. Getting on one knee is great and everything, but you really want to wow your (hopefully) future fiancĂ©, and create a memory they’ll share with their loved ones for the rest of their lives.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to make the moment stand out! Here are 8 unique ideas for your proposal.

Image by Krystal Rose Photography, courtesy of Sweet Harmony

1. Live Music

Can you imagine how romantic it would be to pop the question with a live violinist, or a string quartet, or even a guitarist providing a beautiful soundtrack? Live musicians like BOLI Preferred Vendor Sweet Harmony can enrich your proposal with, well, sweet harmonies! They’ve even got a live music guide for marriage proposals, so you can select the right melodies for the moment. 

2. Involve friends and family

You know everyone is going to be over the moon once they hear the news, so let them in on things right from the start! Make them a part of your proposal by asking them to hold up signs, bring your future fiancĂ© to that “perfect” spot on the beach, or pop out and yell “surprise!” after the inevitable “yes!”

Image courtesy of Yellow House Images

3. Revisit one of your special places…

Where did you first meet your future fiancĂ©? A bar, a ballpark, a gas station? It doesn’t matter where that place is, it holds special meaning for the both of you. Choosing the place where it all began is a wonderful way to make your proposal special, and brings your love story full circle.

Nestled on the quiet shores of East Setauket, BOLI Preferred Venue The Old Field Club is where elegant tradition meets effortless romance.

4. …or choose a new place you’ll always remember

Maybe your future fiancĂ© has always wanted to go to France. Or maybe they’re dying to hike a scenic route upstate! Or maybe a peaceful beach in Aruba is more their speed. If they’ve been mentioning a location they’ve always wanted to visit, it might be the perfect opportunity to cement that place into your histories. 

5. Create a scavenger hunt

Does your future fiancé love solving mysteries and traveling around town? A scavenger hunt is a fun and active way to pop the question! Just make sure you have someone guarding the ring at the final location.

6. A surprise within your routine

You know that Saturday mornings mean coffee in bed together. Serve your future fiancĂ©’s coffee with a side of diamond (or opal, or emeralds, or sapphires…you get the picture). Popping the question when they least expect it will create a moment they’ll never forget.

Image courtesy of Foxlight Studios

7. Incorporate their hobbies

Is your future fiancé a crossword addict? Let them know about this brand new, super fun puzzle you found. The theme will lead to wedding bells! Think about their interests and hobbies, and find a way to propose using their favorite pastimes. 

8. Recruit your furry friend

Your dog or cat (or even your hamster!) is part of your family. Let them in on the festivities too! Tying the ring around your fur babies collar will save your knees from a few scrapes, as long as they don’t tend to outrun their leash!

 

 

Choosing the right wedding officiant can make or break your ceremony.

(Photo courtesy of The Glenmar Studio)

If you’re not getting married in a religious institution, you may need to find an officiant who can legally marry you. Choosing the right wedding officiant can be tough, as they will set the pace for your ceremony and the start of your wedding. So, you’ll want to find the perfect one who jives with you and your future spouse. But do NOT stress! Brides of Long Island has 10 of the best Long Island wedding officiants for you to choose from.

(Photo courtesy of LI Offciant)

LI Officiant
Michele LaRosa works with couples from any and all backgrounds. She works with each couple to create the perfect ceremony, as she knows it sets the tone for the whole day. She loves to create ceremonies that showcase and honor each couple’s story.

Personalized Weddings by Rev. Bill
Rev. Bill prides himself on writing and performing personalized wedding ceremonies that focus on the couple. He even officiated his son’s wedding!

(Photo courtesy of Long Island Wedding Officiants)

Long Island Wedding Officiants
Long Island Wedding Officiants, formerly Officiants at Church of Ancient Ways, was founded in 1997 by Pastor April. Together with Rev. Joe, they lead an amazing team of wedding officiants. They never say no, as they will create any type of ceremony for all couples.

(Photo courtesy of NY Officiants)

NY Officiants
With over 23 years experience in the wedding industry, Minister Christopher has officiated hundreds of weddings. Growing up in the industry, he has worked for entertainment companies as a master of ceremonies and even a wedding event coordinator. But Christopher believes officiating couples’ weddings is his true calling – and he can’t wait to connect to share in your special day.

(Photo courtesy of Rabbi Brian Denker)

Rabbi Brian Denker
Rabbi Brian is an independent rabbi and Interfaith lifecycle officiant. He has extensive experience working with couples and families from all walks of life that identify as Jewish, Interfaith, LGBTQA+ and more who are looking to celebrate their one-of-a-kind relationships.

(Photo courtesy of Rabbi Sara Shonfeld)

Rabbi Sara Shonfeld
Sara Shonfeld is an ordained rabbi and interfaith officiant. She was born and raised in Israel, and has been officiating Jewish, interfaith, spiritual, civil and intercultural ceremonies on Long Island for more than 10 years. She believes being part of a couples’ journey and special day is an honor, and works with you to create a custom ceremony that includes your personal love story.

TAG Studio – Quintessence Ministry
Russ Camarda established Quintessence Ministry to recognize the union of two souls as an incredibly sacred event. Quintessence wants to share that special story in a way that is memorable and unique to you and your future spouse. Their officiants are nondenominational, but rather guided by an inclusive spiritual philosophy that honors all faith traditions.

(Photo courtesy of Rabbi Ron Csillag)

Rabbi Ron Csillag
Rabbi Ron entered the wedding industry with a mission: to help couples create ceremonies that truly reflect their values and personalities. He brings a fresh, personalized approach to every celebration, working closely with each couple as a team. His specialty lies in empowering them to honor their union in a way that feels authentic, meaningful and entirely their own.

Sarah Gutmann Long Island Officiant
Sarah believes your wedding ceremony is a great opportunity to revisit the moments that make up your love story – from the early beginnings to your wedding day. She prides herself on making the ceremony planning process fun, romantic and stress-free, ensuring that it reflects your values, spiritual or non-spiritual needs, traditions and heritage.

Interfaith Jewish Catholic Weddings
Rabbi David Katz and Father Michael Callahan have been officiating interfaith wedding ceremonies for more than 40 years combined. They help couples plan a ceremony that is balanced, heartfelt and personal – and one that is sensitive to all families involved.

Just as with any vendor, you want to make sure you get exactly what you want when you start speaking with officiants. If you are very specific about how you want your ceremony, be sure to ask those questions up front to make sure the officiant can create your dream ceremony.

 

This article is sponsored by Westbury Manor, a Brides of Long Island Preferred Venue!

Unfortunately, RSVPs aren’t that simple

We all look at our guess list and make predictions on who will actually make it. Aunt Susan and Uncle Jim? Definite yeses. That old sorority sister you’re only inviting because you feel obligated? Probably not.

But every once in a while, our predictions can be way off. Our “definites” end up surprising us by checking the “no” box on our RSVPs. When that happens, sometimes it can feel…well, a little hurtful. Why don’t they want to celebrate your most important day? You made it to their wedding, why can’t they reciprocate?

If you’ve read through your fair share of posts in the Brides of Long Island Facebook group, you’ve probably seen this common lament. And well-meaning fellow brides will often share a popular take:”If they want to come to my wedding, they will.” Meaning if your wedding is important enough, they’ll figure out a way to attend.

Here’s the thing, though — life is rarely, if ever, that black and white. 

Image courtesy of JoVon Photography

Planning a wedding is a major part of your life, but it isn’t the only part of your life. You have family, work, and friends to think about too. You may even have children or be responsible for an aging parent. You may have pets, you may be juggling several side gigs, you may be dealing with a demanding boss, or you may be trying your best to get out of debt. You may even have health concerns you aren’t sharing with anyone, or you may be struggling with an issue in your relationship.

Those are all possible factors in your guests’ lives, too. As much as we may think we know someone, we don’t know everything going on. You may have a friend or family member that wants to come to your wedding more than anything, but they only have a certain number of days off work and they have to save them for their own purposes. Or they don’t have reliable childcare. Or they can’t swing a cross-country plane ticket, give you a nice wedding gift, and pay their past due credit card bill in the same month. You get the picture.

Image courtesy of Heritage House

When you write off a “no” RSVP as someone simply not wanting to attend your wedding, you’re taking their lack of attendance personally when it’s most likely not. They may even feel worse about it than you do! Taking offense will negatively impact your relationship, possibly at a time when they really need your love and support.

What should you do when you get a surprise “no”?

If you’re shocked by an out-of-the-blue decline, take some time to breathe. You don’t want to act on impulse, and you don’t want to say or do something you regret later.

The best course of action is to communicate in a positive, uplifting way. Saying something like “I’m so sorry you can’t make it, but we know you’ll be celebrating with us in spirit” lets them know you’ll miss their presence but you understand that they’ll be thinking of you.

If you’re concerned that something may be wrong, check in on them without demanding answers. Saying something like “I got your RSVP, I’m so sad to see you can’t attend. If you need anything, even just to talk, I’m always here.” They may feel comfortable enough to explain their decline, or they may not. But they’ll definitely know that you care about them.

Michael Lopacki, of Michael John Photography, lets brides in on some tips to help make your wedding day perfect.

(Photo courtesy of Michael John Photography)

From the moment you say ‘yes’ to your future spouse, the questions, phone calls and emails, vendor visits and more can get overwhelming. But there are some things that you shouldn’t have to stress about. Michael Lopacki, of BOLI Preferred Vendor Michael John Photography, has given us an inside look at some “secrets” wedding photographers want you to know that might make your wedding planning less stressful.

1. Book Your Photographers Early

Everyone knows to start researching and touring venues ASAP. But photographers, especially smaller companies, can book out 18 months to two years in advance. “I’m pretty much all booked out for 2026, and I even have about 15 weddings planned for 2027 already,” says Lopacki. “Since it’s just me, I do book up quickly. And I know other independent photographers also book up quickly, especially if you want a popular date like a Saturday in June or July.”

Lopacki suggests checking out photographers as soon as you have your date booked. Then you can put your mind at ease that you’ll get your first choice.

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

2. Consider A Weekday Wedding

This one may not be a secret when it comes to your venue, as most brides know that they may get a lower rate by booking a Thursday wedding. However, some vendors – including photographers – may also offer lower rates for weekday weddings. “I do give a little bit of a discount for a Thursday wedding,” says Lopacki. “I love a good Thursday wedding. I’m all about it!”

In addition to saving a little money, there’s a good chance that your favorite photographer will have better availability during the week.

(Photo courtesy of Michael John Photography)

3. Book that Engagement Shoot

While some couples may feel too busy for an engagement shoot, it’s worth considering — especially if it’s included in your photography package. “An engagement shoot is a great way to get to know your photographer and understand how they work,” says Lopacki. “It also helps you get comfortable in front of the camera. Couples often feel a bit awkward at first, but the shoot gives you a chance to relax and learn some of the cues I use to make your wedding day photos look perfect.”

(Photo courtesy of Michael John Photography)

4. Check Out Indoor Locations

Indoor locations are very popular right now, whether it’s for your engagement photo shoot or your wedding day. “I would say one out of every six engagement shoots I do are inside,” says Lopacki. “Some suggest a bar setting, while venues are letting couples explore the grounds during the week for engagement photos.”

Lopacki suggests checking out some indoor locations for your wedding day, starting with your venue. “Everyone wants beautiful weather on their wedding day,” says Lopacki. “But not all amazing photos need to be outside. Indoor photos are gorgeous at so many venues on Long Island.”

5. Don’t Worry About the Weather

Weather happens and we can’t control it. Sometimes it rains, sometimes it snows, sometimes you’ll face a nor’easter. Whatever happens though, Lopacki assures brides they’ll still have the best wedding photos. In addition to considering indoor photo spots in case of inclement weather, you could always trust your photographer to take the most amazing rain photos. “You never really have to worry about the weather with me,” Lopacki says. “I use different lighting techniques and tricks so I can make it look like you’re outside – even if you’re just under an awning.”

(Photo courtesy of Michael John Photography)

6. Trust the Timeline

Your photographer will create a detailed timeline for your wedding day — and while waking up early for hair and makeup might not seem ideal, it’s all part of ensuring everything runs smoothly. “So many different elements go into your wedding day,” says Lopacki. “Couples don’t always realize how long certain things take, so it’s important to trust us when we’re building your timeline.”

As a bonus ‘secret,’ Lopacki shares his enthusiasm for working alongside content creators. “Content creators and I work really well together,” he says. “I love the instant gratification couples get the day after their wedding — they can share those moments with loved ones right away. It’s such a popular and exciting trend, and I don’t see it going away anytime soon.”

Much like a second photographer who captures candid, behind-the-scenes moments, Lopacki sees content creators as a valuable addition to the wedding day team — perfect for documenting the raw, emotional highlights that couples will cherish forever.

Presented in partnership with Kleinfeld Bridal, Tornai’s “Kintsugi” features bold looks inspired by the beauty of imperfection.

Image by Phillip Van Nostrand

On October 14th, renowned bridal designer Pnina Tornai debuted her latest couture collection, Kintsugi, with a runway show at New York Bridal Fashion Week. 

Taking inspiration from the Japanese word meaning “golden joinery,” Kintsugi reflects Tornai’s beliefs that “through acceptance and love, we emerge stronger and more beautiful than before,” according to a press release.

 

Image by Blaine Siesser Photography

 

“I don’t believe in camouflaging your cracks — you cannot heal until you acknowledge where you are broken,” Tornai continued. “This collection is about the beauty found in imperfections, once you accept them. Imperfection is a sign of a life truly lived.”

 

Image by Phillip Van Nostrand

Image by Phillip Van Nostrand

 

Brides of Long Island founder Heather Cunningham was invited to the runway show, and chatted backstage with the designer.

“I really did not have an inspiration, that’s what made this collection such a challenging one,” Tornai told Cunningham. “I always channel my collections and the message that comes with it. With this one, I just knew that I had to create this with gold. Then two weeks before the show, I was crying and I said to myself, ‘I don’t have a name, it’s going to drive me crazy.’  And one of my guys said to me, ‘Why don’t you call it Kinstugi?'” 

“I said, ‘What the hell is Kinstugi?” she continued. “And he said, ‘Kinstugi is an ancient Japanese art of mending broken pieces, precious porcelain art, mending it with gold pieces.’ And so I said, ‘Wow, it sounds exactly like what I’m going through. And that will be the name of the collection.'”

 

Image by Blaine Seisser Photography

 

Tornai went on to surprise Cunningham with an admission. “I never wanted to be a fashion designer,” she said. “It would have been an insult when I was young if you would have told me. I wanted to be an actress. That was my dream. But there’s a dream, and there’s a calling. And creating those beautiful dreams for brides, making them come true is my calling. So I’m here to share the love. That’s what I’m here to do.”
 

Image by Blaine Siesser Photography

Image by Blaine Siesser Photography

Image by Blaine Seisser Photography

Models graced the runway in 28 gowns, ranging from sleek lines to bold, unconventional silhouettes. The finale — a stunning, all-gold piece with a structured bodice, lace veil, and oversized bow — drew gasps and applause from the crowd. 

Image by Phillip Van Nostrand

Image by Phillip Van Nostrand

Image by Phillip Van Nostrand

Image by Phillip Van Nostrand

 

“I was completely blown away not only by Pnina’s breathtaking gowns but by her warmth and authenticity,” said Cunningham. “When she told me she never imagined becoming a designer and that it was simply her calling, it all made sense. Her passion and purpose shine through in every gown, and it’s no wonder so many of our brides are proud to be Pnina brides.”
 

Image by Blaine Seisser Photography

Image by Blaine Seisser Photography

The full collection will be available for purchase at Kleinfeld Bridal, with an initial trunk show from October 16 through October 19. 

 

Nassau County is filled with beautiful sites to make your engagement photos special.

Once you start to come down from your high of getting engaged, it will be time to start thinking about wedding planning. Why not extend that excitement a little bit with engagement photos?

Usually, when you hire a photographer, they will offer engagement photos as part of their packages, or they’ll offer you a discount. This is the perfect opportunity to not only get used to taking professional photos, but also get used to the photographer and see how everyone will work together.

But deciding where to take these photos may leave you with even more stress! If your photographer doesn’t have a suggestion and you have no idea where to pick, don’t worry – Nassau County is filled with hidden gems and beautiful grounds. From parks to fields, below are seven of the best places to take engagement photos in Nassau County.

Sites That Require a Permit

Old Westbury Gardens
This property in Old Westbury is a beautiful backdrop with several areas for great photos. You can choose from the walled garden, the rose garden, the cottage garden and more! A permit is required and can be found here. There is a fee for 90 minutes of time. All photos must be taken before 5 p.m.

Planting Fields Arboretum
These picturesque grounds are located in Oyster Bay and would be the perfect location for your engagement photos. A permit is needed and costs $100. Photos inside the Camellia House, which is extremely limited, run $300. There is also a parking fee. You can find more information here.

Sands Point Preserve
The former Guggenheim Estate in Sands Point is the perfect backdrop for your photos, but can be a bit pricey. Outdoor photography, with approved locations ahead of time, runs $350 for a two-hour session, while indoor photography at the historic Hempstead House is $450 for a two-hour session – this also includes a third hour for outdoor photos. Click here for more information and to contact the preserve.

Sites Do Not Require a Permit

Bethpage State Park
This park is famous for its golf courses, but it’s also a beautiful backdrop for your photos. Call ahead to see if there is a fee. But you should just have to pay a parking fee if you don’t have an Empire pass. Click here for more information.

Clark Botanic Gardens
This luscious 12-acre garden is a hidden gem in Albertson. Off the beaten path it’s home to native spring wildflowers, conifers, roses, perennials, daylilies, wetland plants, rock garden plants, herbs, butterfly plants, medicinal plants and over a dozen collections of particular plant families. The garden is free to enjoy, but donations are suggested. Call ahead for the best time to take photos. Find out more here.

Hempstead Lake State Park
Another beautiful park on the South Shore in West Hempstead. It features plenty of trails and locations, including a lake and historic carousel, for picturesque engagement photos. There could be an entrance fee. Find out more here.

Jones Beach State Park
Miles of sandy beach, a beautiful boardwalk and the famous water tower, this could be the perfect backdrop to your engagement photos. Since it’s a state park in Wantagh you shouldn’t need a permit, but there may be a parking fee. You can click here for more information.

If you’re still at a loss, or don’t want to pay a fee or get a permit, you can get creative. Perhaps you or a family member or friend have a large yard. Maybe you live near a park or trail that you can take photos in. You could even check with your wedding venue and see if you can use their grounds during off hours for your engagement photos.

No matter where you go, remember to just have fun and enjoy this time together!

Fine china? Forget it! Here are 6 things you don’t have to include in your registry anymore (despite what your parents and grandparents think!)

Wedding registries used to have a very specific purpose — providing a newlywed couple with everything they’d need to start a home.

Let’s be real, though. It’s 2025, and many of us are starting our homes (and even our families) before we say “I do.” Beyond that, many of the standard, classic items you’d find on a registry would probably end up gathering dust in the back of your closet.

Despite what some older friends and relatives may think, here are 6 things you don’t have to include in your registry anymore (that is, of course, unless you want to!)

1. Fine china and full service silverware

Unless you throw frequent fancy dinner parties for 8 or more people, registering for fine china and full service silverware is a waste. They might be nice to have at the holidays, but chances are they won’t see the light of day for more than one or two meals a year…if that. 

Image courtesy of Heather Jean Photography

2. Speciality entertaining pieces

Again — unless you’re known for your dinner parties, things like cheese platters, Lazy Susans, and tiered trays tend to just take up space. 

3. Fancy glass wear and crystal

Items like these may be nice to have as family heirlooms, but they rarely serve any day-to-day purposes in our homes. Consider including one nice vase or statement piece on your list and leave it at that. 

4. Trendy kitchen gadgets

Okay, that Instagram ad with the machine that makes cocktails like a Keurig? You tapped “save” SO fast. But big, trendy kitchen gadgets take up A LOT of real estate in your kitchen, and usually don’t get used all that much. 

5. Anything that strongly matches your current kitchen decor

Yes, that red checkered dutch oven IS adorable. Do you think you’ll have the exact same vibes in your kitchen for the next 20 years, though? It’s best to go with more neutral hues so you can continue to use the item regardless of your current interior design.

6. “Staples” that you know you won’t use

We all know and love the KitchenAid stand mixer. But before you add it to your registry, ask yourself this question: how often do you bake? If the answer isn’t “a lot,” you’re better off registering for something else. The same goes for other kitchen staples like blenders, air fryers, etc. Think of how often you’re likely to use these items. “Staples” aren’t staples for everyone!  

In Brides of Long Island’s Monthly “Mrs.” series, we profile some of our members’ unforgettable weddings. This month, Jill discusses how she had to bring in everything from food to linens to make her wedding day spectacular.

When Franco proposed to Jill, she knew immediately where she wanted to have their wedding. But she also knew it was going to be a lot of work since RGNY is “essentially a blank slate.” But every bit of time and effort she put in was worth it, as she was able to create the wedding of her dreams.

A Vineyard Proposal

The pair met just before COVID while working at the same restaurant — she was the sommelier and manager; he was a server. “We instantly hit it off, but we had to keep it on the down low, since I was a manager,” Jill said. “We would hang out any chance we could though, and when the pandemic hit, we were pretty much inseparable.” In fact, he proposed just two months into their relationship, but she asked him to wait. 

A few years later in 2023, he surprised her with the perfect ring and a heartfelt proposal at their favorite Long Island getaway, the Soundview Inn — complete with a photographer and both families cheering from the balcony.

Starting From Scratch

After Franco proposed, the newly engaged couple started planning their Oct. 6, 2024 nuptials right away. “I knew it was going to take a lot of time and effort because RGNY is a winery in a barn out on the East End, and you have to bring everything in yourself,” Jill said. “It’s a beautiful space, but it was a lot of work!”

From chandeliers to tableware, the couple curated every element, with food and florals topping their priority list. They chose Lombardi’s for catering, and found a florist through Instagram who sourced pumpkins to bring the bride’s autumn vision to life. “There must have been over 2,000 pumpkins there!” said Jill.

Booking vendors was smooth, Jill said, thanks to early planning. For makeup, the bride opted for a hybrid approach — professionals handled the base, while she added her own signature touches. And keeping with the “starting from scratch” theme, Jill did her own hair!

A Spooky Fall Fairytale

As far as their theme – you guessed it – they went with fall. And of course, it wouldn’t have been their wedding without incorporating a few of Jill’s favorite things: Taylor Swift and their pup Charlie! “I had tons of signs with [Taylor’s] song lyrics placed throughout the venue, and I named our signature drinks after her also,” said Jill. “And we made sure to include Charlie! We actually took photos with him before the ceremony.”

One of Jill’s most cherished moments? Their first dance to Luke Combs’ “Beautiful Crazy,” a nod to their love of country music. “Despite our two-left-feet, we practiced for hours and pulled off a sweet, memorable routine.”

Planning such a hands-on wedding came with a lot of stress, but Jill credits her bridal attendant, Jen Espada, for keeping everything on track. “She created a detailed itinerary, knew which family members were must-haves for our photos, and stayed by my side all day,” said Jill. “She went insane – in the best way.”

Taking a Breath

Jill admits planning their wedding from scratch was no small feat. In addition to leaning on Jen, she also scoured the Brides of Long Island page to guide her through vendor choices, dress shops and budget tips.

Despite the pre-wedding stress, the morning was filled with mimosas, bagels and love. “It wasn’t just about me – it was about being in love with someone and having everyone come together to celebrate that,” she said.

Her biggest piece of advice for future brides? Take a breath and a moment alone with your partner. “Jen pulled us aside after the ceremony and photos. We sat on a couch, ate tacos and tuna tartare, shared champagne and just talked. That moment was everything.”

Jill also urges brides to expect the unexpected, and to budget accordingly. “Something will go wrong, and your budget could go up. But don’t stress. Just enjoy the day, because it’s really about being in love with someone and having everyone come together to celebrate.”

Vendors:
Venue: RGNY
Photographer: Michael John Photography, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Videography: Images Everything
DJ: Dash of Class Platinum
Florist: Wildflower Touch
Makeup: Elle B, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Dress: Bridal Reflections, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Cake: The Treatery Li
Transportation: Hampton Jitney
Officiant: TAG Studio – a Quintessence Ministry, a BOLI Preferred Vendor
Bridal Attendant: Jen Espada, The LI Bridal Attendant

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

Honeymoons are great, but should you swap it for an ‘earlymoon’?

Some brides of Long Island are more excited for their honeymoon than they are for their wedding. And hey, what’s not to be excited about? You get to relax and unwind in a scenic part of the world, exploring and spending quality time with your new spouse.

But there’s a growing trend of couples who’ve decided not to wait until after their “I do’s” to get away. “Earlymoons” are becoming more and more popular, and they’re an excellent way to de-stress from wedding planning and reconnect with your spouse.

What is an ‘Earlymoon’?

An earlymoon is a trip you take, well, early — before the big day arrives.

Whether your realize it or not, wedding planning can take its toll. Even if your experience has been a breeze, you still spend a lot of mental and physical energy deciding which vendors to hire, hunting down missing RSVPs, and navigating complex family relationships. That can not only cause you a whole lot of stress, but it can sometimes drive a wedge between you and your fiancé  

An earlymoon allows you to relax, reconnect with your partner, and recharge in a beautiful setting away from home. Sometimes taking a break from the planning allows you to see things with fresh eyes and remember why you’re getting married in the first place. 

Do earlymoons replace honeymoons?

So if you spring for an earlymoon, does that mean a honeymoon is out of the question?

Not necessarily. It all depends on your budget, and where you choose to go. If you have a month-long tour of Italy planned as a earlymoon, an expensive honeymoon to Bali might not be in the cards (unless you definitely have the funds for it). A quick weekend trip to the keys, though? That’s more realistic.

As with anything related to your wedding, it all depends on what you and your fiancĂ© want. If you’d rather go all out on a trip before your big day, then do it! But even a quick weekend trip to some place drivable can give you stress-reducing benefits.

Where should I go for an earlymoon? And when?  

Just like honeymoons, there’s no right or wrong place to go for an earlymoon. If you and your fiancĂ© love upstate New York in the winter, that sounds like a great earlymoon to us! As long as you can spend quality time together, and as long as you don’t totally break the bank, any destination you choose would fit the bill.

When you decide to go is a bit trickier. Leaving when lots of things are still up in the air may not allow you to truly relax — you may find that your mind is elsewhere, even when you’re sunbathing on the beach or getting a massage at the spa. Some people treat their earlymoon as a celebration of getting everything done and squared away, which means you can really use that time to unwind.

For others, getting away in the middle of planning may actually be smart because — let’s be real — that’s when you need the break. Taking that time can give you some perspective (and maybe some inspiration) for when you get back into the thick of things. 

The “best” time to go is probably somewhere in the middle: when there’s still some time left before the big day, and when you can spare a few days away from your email and phone to relax. 

Don’t let planning the earlymoon stress you out too, though. Instead, rely on one of BOLIs Preferred Honeymoon Specialists to do all the booking for you!

Westbury Manor has teamed up with vendors to help you create the wedding of your dreams.

(Photo courtesy of Silverfox Studios)

With its five acres of beautiful landscape and several cozy rooms inside its mansion, Westbury Manor, a BOLI Preferred Venue, is the perfect place for a Long Island wedding at any time of the year. And now, Westbury Manor is making wedding planning even easier with its “Bridal Boxx” – a complete vendor package that brings you a stress-free experience.

Space For All Seasons

Let’s face it – Long Island weather fluctuates all year round. At Westbury Manor, you won’t have to worry about it. “We have dĂ©cor for every season,” said owner Jerry Scotto. “And we have space to accommodate every type of weather. We have a photo studio that our couples can use for photos at any time.”

Whether you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland or a garden ceremony in full bloom, Westbury Manor offers a picturesque backdrop at any time of year. With manicured grounds featuring ponds, waterfalls, gazebos, and seasonal plantings, couples never need to leave the property for stunning photo opportunities.

Fall transforms the estate with rich hues of mums and ornamental cabbage, making September and October the most popular months for weddings. The changing foliage and crisp air create a cozy, romantic atmosphere that’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies and photos.

(Photo courtesy of Silverfox Studios)

Winter weddings at Westbury Manor are nothing short of enchanting. The mansion is lavishly decorated for Christmas, evoking the warmth and nostalgia of holidays past. Brides can pose beside decorated trees in the lobby, cozy up by the stone fireplace in the library or take advantage of the indoor photo studio — a beautifully appointed space with seasonal dĂ©cor, plush seating and a fireplace. For those willing to brave the chill, outdoor photos on the bridge under soft snowfall and twinkling lights add a romantic touch.

(Photo courtesy of Silverfox Studios)

Spring brings over 5,000 tulips to life across the grounds, creating a vibrant and colorful setting for ceremonies and cocktail hours. Brides can take advantage of warmer days with outdoor ceremonies while still enjoying the elegance of the manor’s indoor spaces.

Summer is lush and lively, with more than 2,000 impatiens planted throughout the property. The conservatory — a glass-enclosed room filled with natural light — is a favorite for cocktail hour, while the garden room and library offer ample seating and seasonal charm.

No matter the season, Westbury Manor hosts only one wedding at a time, ensuring each couple receives the full attention of the staff and exclusive use of the grand ballroom for their reception. Ceremonies are typically held in the ballroom or outdoors. And guests can enjoy cocktail hour across the conservatory, garden room, and library — all open to explore.

(Photo courtesy of Silverfox Studios)

The Bridal Boxx Advantage

For brides seeking a streamlined planning experience, Westbury Manor offers the Bridal Boxx — a curated vendor package featuring photography, videography, DJ entertainment and floral design services. Westbury Manor Floral is conveniently located on-site, while Silverfox Studios, a BOLI Preferred Vendor, and LI Music Boutique are both located in the same office. This two-stop planning solution has already delighted dozens of brides since its launch last November. 

“It’s all about making things easier for our couples,” said Scotto. “They wanted packages, and we listened. The Bridal Boxx is designed to be seamless, stylish and stress-free.”

(Photo courtesy of Silverfox Studios)

There is also the option to add on transportation for you and your guests with All Star Limousine, a BOLI Preferred Vendor. 

Brides can inquire about the Bridal Boxx and 2026 pricing directly through Westbury Manor. And with seasonal décor, flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, and a dedicated team, planning your dream wedding has never been more effortless.

(Photo courtesy of Silverfox Studios)