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.
(Photo by Michael John Photography)
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.
(Photo by Michael John Photography)
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.”
(Photo by Michael John Photography)
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.
(Photo by Michael John Photography)
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.”
(Photo by Michael John Photography)
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
(Photo by Michael John Photography)