Photo: Craig Paulson Photography
For Clare Broad and Andrew Quail, two native Australians who met far from home, falling in love in New York City seemed hardly likely. But when they shared a drink at The Windsor, a West Village bar, in March 2014, both admit it was love at right sight. Only two months later Andrew popped the question outside of that very same bar, and the two immediately started planning their big city wedding.
On September 20, 2014, Clare and Andrew wed in an intimate ceremony on the rooftop of their apartment before celebrating at the 21 Club. Craig Paulson Photography was there to document every special moment of their perfect fall celebration, which proves you don't need a long engagement to pull off a stylish fete. With the help of Ara Farnam of Rock Paper Scissors Events, Clare and Andrew planned an international-inspired open-air bash in only two-and-a-half months!
Clare stunned in a simple, elegant short-sleeved, satin-and-twill sheath from Lanvin. While the front looks entirely understated, the cascading ruffle back offered some serious style from behind. She accessorized with a simple Tiffany & Co. bangle, navy pumps from Christian Louboutin, and a classic, bold red lip.
Photo: Craig Paulson Photography
Her five bridesmaids all wore matching gold sequined gowns form Aidan Mattox. Clare carried a lush bouquet of romantic white and ivory flowers, which included spray roses, nigella, garden roses, dahlias, and mini calla lilies. Her bridesmaids held similar, smaller bouquets with garden roses, mini calla lilies, Quicksand roses, spray roses, and nigella in shades of ivory and blush.
Photo: Craig Paulson Photography
Andrew and his groomsmen all wore slim fit navy suit from Reiss and accessorized with a simple boutonniere made from two ivory spray roses and greenery accents.
Photo: Craig Paulson Photography
Choosing their ceremony location was simple for the couple. Getting married on the rooftop of their home seemed like a natural fit, and was an easy way to share another part of their lives with guests traveling from so far away. "The Jade Rooftop has a modern aesthetic, so we brought in ghost chairs that complemented the clean lines and didn't compete with the views," Clare said of their décor.
The bride's father walked her down a simple white aisle to the sounds of Johann Sebastian Bach's Cantata, BWV147 "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring," played by a live string quartet. Their rooftop locale showcased the stunning views of New York City, and while the couple chose not to write their own vows, unique décor and the stunning cityscape spoke to their relationship.
Immediately following the ceremony the party moved to the 21 Club where Clare and Andrew, along with their 85 guests, were wowed by elegant white tables named after city sites. Each place setting was decorated with either a mini Empire State Building or golden apple to highlight their new chosen home.
The party dined on tasty fare like lobster ravioli, fillet of beef, and whipped potatoes and finished the evening with classic New York cheesecakes. Guests also enjoyed chocolate, vanilla, and red velvet cupcakes from big city staple Magnolia Bakery.
Photo: Craig Paulson Photography
While Clare admits that her planner did "most of the heavy lifting," she does have a point of advice for couples in the midst of wedding planning: "Keep it simple," Clare says. "Try not to focus too much on the smaller details!"
Ceremony Venue: The Jade || Reception Venue: The 21 Club || Event Designer & Coordinator: Rock Paper Scissors Events || Officiant: Bettina Yiannakourou || Bride's Wedding Dress: Lanvin from Kleinfeld Bridal || Bride's Jewelry: Tiffany & Co.; Saks Fifth Avenue || Bride's Shoes: Christian Louboutin || Bride's Hair & Makeup: James Corbett || Bridesmaids' Dresses: Aidan Mattox || Groom's & Groomsmen's Attire: Reiss || Engagement Ring & Wedding Band: Roman Malakov || Florist: Rountree Flowers || Invitations: Paperless Post || Other Paper Products: Minted || Table Cards & Calligraphy: Abigail Hancock || Escort Card Board: Kalijo Works || Ceremony & Reception Music: Jerry Kravat New York || Catering: 21 Club; || Cupcakes: Magnolia Bakery || Rentals: Please B Seated; Broadway Party Rentals || Accommodations: The Standard Hotel, Meat Packing || Photographer: Craig Paulson Photography
Did you love this New York City wedding? Then watch another couple get married in the Big Apple in the video below!