Josh and Brian first came to me with a very different vision of what their wedding ended up being. We toured several venues together, and eventually signed a contract. These gentlemen are just as organized as they are dapper, so this was well over a year in advance of the wedding. While I learned more about their style of entertaining and Josh’s desire for an elaborate dessert bar, we as a community were all cheering on an expected and monumental win of a presidential campaign. We all know what the outcome was.
As all of us slowly came out mourning, (although- I don’t know if we ever will), the grooms had a heart to heart with me. Up until this moment in time, their wedding was one designed to please many types of guests who would be attending. Not only did this election change American politics, but it empowered Josh and Brian to truly make the wedding be on their terms. As they knew there were several family members who didn’t align with them politically, they downsized their guest-count. They only wanted friends and family there who supported them entering into a legal, same-sex marriage.
The first order of business was to change venues, and they ended up at The Skylark. This has always been a personal favorite of mine from the extraordinary views and in-house catering by Abigail Kirsch. Terrariums became a big part of enhancing the space, from escort-cards to the centerpieces designed by Gatherings NYC. The chic furniture of the venue paired well with the black linen and gold flatware we brought in. All of these details were captured by Jacquelyne Pierson.
The real fun came from the entertainment. Bellatonic provided live music for the ceremony and dinner, and afterward DJ Vito Fun kept the entire crowd on the dance floor. Paige Turner was hired as the emcee of the night. Originally dressed as a girl working the front door, she greeted all guests as they walked into the dark, warehouse-like entry. While the crowd was enjoying the pre-ceremony cocktail hour on the roof, Paige made a costume and wig-change. She re-appeared right after the ceremony as the Queen who finally got her way into the party, and the tone was set that the rest of the night would be nothing but fun.
Josh and Brian looked sharp as could be decked out in Suit Supply…I might even describe them as fancy. It didn’t stop them from tearing up the dance floor surrounded by everyone they love most. Every wedding decision was completed on their terms, including the take-home favors of kits to make a vodka-soda. They walked down the aisle to Josh’s favorite diva Reba McEntire where she sings “To Thine Own Self Be True.” These grooms listened to the lyric, but also a surprise message from Reba right before their first dance. They were not let down.
View the full gallery here.
Listen to Reba's message below.
Photographer: Jacquelyne Pierson
Floral: Gatherings NYC
Band: The Bellatonics
DJ: Vito Fun
Emcee: Paige Turner
Rentals: Party Rental LTD