Photo: Brian Dorsey Studios
The day David proposed to Jessica started like any other crisp fall day, with breakfast at their usual spot: Bubby's, in New York City's TriBeCa neighborhood. "It was so beautiful out, especially for early December, so Dave suggested we go to the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens," Jessica says. Once there, a few moments of wandering led to a bench near a pond. Jessica thought Dave was bending down to sit on the bench, but he was actually getting on one knee! Knowing his bride-to-be's love of capturing the moment, he'd hired a photographer to document it, as well as take photos as they wandered the garden (and their favorite New York City streets) in newly-engaged bliss. "Dave really thought of everything. He topped the day off with cocktails — and even had my family come from Boston and my best friend fly in from Los Angeles for the occasion!" says the bride.
Eleven months later, the self-described downtown couple hosted a wedding in the only venue that fit their vibe, their sense of style, and their 300-person guest list: Cipriani Wall Street. To make sure every detail was perfect (and expertly photographed!), Dave and Jessica hired Annie Lee of Daughter of Design to plan and Brian Dorsey Studios to take the photos Jessica knew she'd cherish forever.
Jessica fell in love with a two-piece gown by Monique Lhuillier, featuring an intricately beaded drop-waist corset and an A-line skirt. "It wasn't as heavy as a one-piece gown," she says. She finished her look with jewelry borrowed from her mother-in-law and classic Jimmy Choo shoes. Dave wore a Ralph Lauren tuxedo with his grandfather's watch and a black satin bow tie.
The bride's bouquet was designed to look like a single oversized rose. "Our florist, Marsha of Shields Flowers, took the petals off of dozens of cream roses and rearranged them to make one big flower," Jessica says.
The bridesmaids wore black Nicole Miller gowns and carried bouquets of ivory roses.
The ceremony took place beneath a chuppah that combined lush romance with modern details. The Lucite pillars had candles glowing from within, and held up a canopy of blush and ivory roses and lots of greenery. "Despite having more than 300 people staring at us, it felt like just Dave and me up there," says the bride.
Lots of candlelight added romance and warmth to the reception. Tables were topped with blush and ivory roses, with an additional pop of deep red.
"Dave took care of the menu and music," says Jessica. "He did great — our guests raved about the cocktail hour stations, and the steak was pretty unreal!"
Tables were a mix of rounds with light linens and rectangular mirror-topped tables. "We added succulents to the mix to give it a little extra texture," Jessica says.
Photo: Brian Dorsey Studios
The bride and groom were too busy greeting guests to enjoy dinner, but they made sure to have a slice of cake. "Dave loves funfetti, so that's what we had," says Jessica. Each tier featured different details, and the entire confection was draped in fresh white and blush roses.
Later on in the evening, guests on the dance floor were treated to Pop Burger and a surprise drum performance by the groom. Says Jessica, "We didn't stick to a particular theme or style, but instead made sure the wedding was true to who we are. As I walked down the aisle, I couldn't believe it was mine!"
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Cipriani Wall Street || Wedding Planner: Annie Lee of Daughter of Design || Bride's Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier || Veil: Mark Ingram Atelier || Shoes: Jimmy Choo || Hair: Chris Lospalluto || Makeup: Jason Ascher || Bridesmaids' Dresses: Nicole Miller || Groom's Tuxedo: Ralph Lauren || Engagement Ring: William Goldberg || Wedding Bands: I. Friedman & Son Jewelers || Florist: Shields Flowers & Events || Invitations & Paper Goods: Ceci New York || Music: Element Music, DJ David Berrie || Catering: Cipriani Wall Street || Cake: Friend of the Groom || Rentals: Shields Flowers & Events || Videography: Kiss the Bride Films || Photography: Brian Dorsey Studios