“There Are No Accidents to Who Finds Us:” Reverend Joe Iadanza and The Officiants at Church of Ancient Ways Build Ceremonies That Reflect Your Relationship, Your Spirit, and Your Love

Founded by Pastor April Gismondi, The Officiants at Church of Ancient Ways are a team of joyfully diverse professionals ready to fill your wedding day with heartfelt meaning. 

Your wedding day is filled with details, from the flowers in your bouquet to each delicate sequin on your gown. But perhaps the most important detail of your day lies in your ceremony –  the words that will unite you and your fiancé as you embark on a new life together.

Reverend Joe Iadanza, owner of BOLI Preferred Vendor The Officiants at Church of Ancient Ways, fully understands the intimacy and gravity that’s held in a wedding ceremony. It is why he leads a team of heart-centered officiants, focused on providing ceremonies that speak to each couple’s varied sensibilities and unique love story.

• MORE: 14 Questions to Ask When Hiring an Officiant

“I never expected in a million years that I could be doing this.” – Rev. Joe Iadanza, The Officiants at Church of Ancient Ways

Rev. Joe didn’t anticipate that his days in the seminary would lead to officiating weddings. “I never expected in a million years that I could be doing this,” he admitted. “For me, it was really more of a personal journey. I went to a seminary in my later life, and it was really more for learning counseling and to guide people in their own inner spiritual work.”

When one of Rev. Joe’s teachers learned of his desire to branch out and try something new, they referred him to Pastor April Gismondi, Church of Ancient Ways’ founder. While their initial meeting didn’t result in an immediate partnership – “She actually told me to get lost at first,”  Joe joked – it wasn’t long before Pastor April needed someone with  Rev. Joe’s skills. “Two weeks after our meeting, out of the blue, I get a call from her and she said ‘I need a male officiant for something.’”

After a shadowing period, Rev. Joe began performing more ceremonies under The Officiants at Church of Ancient Ways’ banner. Realizing that he was a strong writer who possessed an undeniable warmth and talent, Pastor April was ready to bring him into a leadership position. “At one point, she just turned to me and asked ‘What are you doing for the next 10 years?’” he recounted with a laugh. “And so right around the end of the first year of COVID, she started showing me how she ran the business. And then I took over as owner, officially, a little over a year ago.”

“I love when I meet a couple and there are all these synchronicities that show us yes, we were supposed to work together.” – Rev. Joe Iadanza, The Officiants at Church of Ancient Ways

As owner of The Officiants at Church of Ancient Ways, Rev. Joe leads a group of incredibly capable and diverse professionals. “We have a beautiful team of officiants, from all different backgrounds,” he detailed. “We even have an incredible bilingual officiant in our own Minister Brenda Santana. In addition to being a wonderful writer, she moves fluidly between Spanish and English without unnecessary redundancy. We all work really hard to uphold the quality that Pastor April set. And we do it joyfully. We really pride ourselves on that.”

Many brides feel as if meeting their fiancé was pure destiny, and Rev. Joe feels the same about his clients. “I think there are no accidents to who finds us,” he said. “There are no accidents to who finds me to do their ceremony, or who finds Pastor April, or Reverend Aviva, or any of our other associates. I love when I meet a couple and there are all these synchronicities that show us yes, we were supposed to work together. Whether it means we have similar backgrounds in our families, or sometimes – for example, I have a saint in my family tree, Padre Pio of Pietrelcine, and we’ll find out their family prays to that saint all the time.”

• MORE: Not Following Wedding Traditions and How I Stood My Ground

“My favorite thing is making guests  feel really, really connected to the couple.” – Rev. Joe Iadanza, The Officiants at Church of Ancient Ways

Different couples will want different aspects to their ceremony, and this is a fact that Rev. Joe recognizes. “There are a few different ways that we work with people,” he said. “There are people that don’t necessarily want to be the center of attention, that don’t want it to be about them, or want something very traditional that fits in a half-hour window. We’ve written some of those kinds of ceremonies already, so oftentimes couples will choose a ceremony from our library for those reasons, which saves them some money too.”

For couples that want something personalized, Rev. Joe and his team will start from scratch. “We have one formal meeting that I break into two pieces,” he described. “First, we talk about what you want structurally in the ceremony and the things you could do within the time that we have; the kind of language we could use if you wanted something religious, or the kind of elements that you want.”

Next, Rev. Joe will take his time getting to know your story. “I dig into the couple, I want to know everything,” he explained. “Tell how you met. Tell me how you fell in love. When did you know? I ask [couples] not to prepare too much in advance, because I really want to see how they interact with each other. I want to see how their banter is. I want to watch them kind of try and figure things out, because it shows me who they are together.”

“What I’m looking for are the things that make them really unique. The things that they connect with that make them special. And also what their energy is like so that I can get that and translate that into words,” Rev. Joe described. “I want everybody in that audience to feel like when they walk out of that ceremony, they know why this couple is getting married. My favorite thing is making their guests feel really, really connected to the couple.” 

If your heart is set on an unordained friend or family member performing your ceremony, The Officiants at Church of Ancient Ways can provide an officiant for a signature, or “sit and sign” service, and they have no problem acting as ghostwriters. “Sometimes a couple says ‘We really want Cousin Bill to marry us, but he has no idea how to write a wedding,” Rev. Joe detailed. “We’ve written ceremonies so that a family member could deliver it, and then we privately married them later in the evening. But we were involved with helping them get the ceremony that they could use.” 

“I had never done one before. But for them, I went and researched.” – Rev. Joe Iadanza, The Officiants at Church of Ancient Ways

Rev. Joe has officiated some incredibly meaningful unions, but one specific ceremony stood out in his mind. “I did a ceremony for two men that were Greek, and one of them wanted more than anything to get married in a Greek Orthodox ceremony,” he remembered. “It’s a very involved ceremony, and he couldn’t do it because of the Greek Orthodox Church’s stance. His heart was breaking because he had a faith that he wanted to honor, and he couldn’t do it.”

Rev. Joe sprung to action and provided the couple with authenticity. “I had never done one before. But for them, I went and researched,” he said. “I wrote an abridged Greek Orthodox ceremony, less than half an hour, that included the Crowning and all this wonderful symbolic kind of stuff. It was just beautiful. It’s my favorite of all time, still to this date.”

“We love what we do. We love the work.” – Rev. Joe Iadanza, The Officiants at Church of Ancient Ways

Rev. Joe has a few important and practical pieces of advice for brides getting married on Long Island. “Make sure whoever is marrying you is legally allowed to marry you in New York State,” he recommends. “It doesn’t mean you have to come to us. You can go to Town Hall and get married there and have a party at another time. But just make sure that the person who marries you wasn’t ordained online and that they’re from a real organization – either a church, or a judge, or whatever makes them truly legal to marry you.”

He also advises planning ahead and staying organized. “Now’s the time, even if you’re not getting married for a year, to make sure you have the documents you need to prove that you’re legally allowed to be married,” he said. “That may be as simple as an ID – in New York City, that’s all you need. If you’re on Long Island or the rest of New York state, you need a birth certificate or certified copy, and your ID or baptismal certificate. And if you’ve been previously married, have proof that the marriage is dissolved.”

Finally, Rev. Joe says to seek out vendors that make the wedding planning process enjoyable. “Whether it’s us or other vendors, pick people who are going to make your life easy, who are fun to work with, who are always smiling, who say yes,” he suggests. “We always say yes, even if we have to figure out another way to do it, we always try to figure out a way to make it work. Because we love what we do. We love the work.”

• MORE: It’s cooling down – grab a BOLI hoodie!

Wedding planning can get expensive pretty quickly. Why not take advantage of Black Friday sales to save some extra cash?

As the holidays approach, the bills can add up, especially if you’re planning a wedding. But the holidays are actually the perfect time to shop for your wedding! Stores run huge sales on Black Friday – the biggest shopping day of the year – which means you can score tons of wedding-related items for deep discounts.

 

Invitations/Photos
Shutterfly, Minted, Snapfish – even your local pharmacy like Rite Aid or Walgreens should have huge sales on printing invitations, photos and more. Some deals at Shutterfly could include up to 50% off an order.

Wedding Décor
Those cages for centerpieces? Picture frames for a memory table? The sky’s the limit when it comes to wedding décor on Black Friday. So many stores like Michaels and Hobby Lobby will have great sales that you won’t want to miss!

Favors
Whatever your favors will be, wait until Black Friday to see if your favorite store is offering a discount on them.

Flip Flops
Now is the time to buy those flip flops in bulk! While Old Navy may not offer $1 flip flops on Black Friday, they could offer up to 50% off your order.

Blankets
Having a wedding in cooler months? Stock up on blankets (that are usually on sale at Kohl’s!) for your guests.

Candles
Depending on the candles you’re looking for, stores such as Michaels and Bath & Body Works always offer great sales on Black Friday.

Items for Bridal Party Proposals
Department stores offer big discounts on jewelry, while other stores like Things Remembered might offer discounts on customized items such as picture frames or boxes.

MORE: Gifts Your Groomsmen Will Love

Items for Hotel Bags
Looking to fill bags for the hotel? Check Target or Walmart for discounted items. Or head to a dollar store to stock up.

Shoes
DSW or even department stores are sure to offer huge discounts on footwear. Wake up early or head online to order your shoes for the big day.

MORE: Top 9 places to shop for wedding shoes

Dress
Check your favorite bridal salon to see if they are having any Black Friday sales. Perhaps there’s a trunk sale or an off the rack sale that you can take advantage of to find your dream gown. Check out some bridal salons on BOLI’s preferred vendor list. 

MORE: Where to buy bridesmaids dresses online

Shower Items
Tell your besties to hit up stores like Target or Bath & Body Works to pick up games, decorations or favors for your shower at lower prices.

Honeymoon Clothes
Most big department stores, and even local shops, will offer clothing discounts on Black Friday. Scoop up the deals for your honeymoon!

Luggage
If you need new luggage, check out stores like Kohl’s for great Black Friday deals.

Rings/Jewelry
Wait until Black Friday to order your wedding rings! Department stores will definitely have big sales on jewelry. Local shops could offer discounts too. See some of BOLI’s preferred jewelers here.

MORE: How to stick to your wedding budget

Basically, nothing is off limits on Black Friday. Some stores are even offering Black Friday sale prices in the weeks leading up to the day after Thanksgiving. So, make sure you’re checking your favorite stores’ circulars. Download their apps and sign up for alerts too! And remember, if you miss Black Friday, you can always check out Shop Local Saturday and Cyber Monday sales.

And don’t forget to shop the BOLI store for awesome swag!

Stephanie McLaughlin and her Hostess With The Mostess team brings creativity, passion, and efficiency to your wedding events.

The last two years have seen a discernible rise in backyard weddings, and for good reason – they’re inherently cozy, fashionably rustic, and free from the rules or schedule constraints of larger catering halls.

But backyard weddings come with a pretty heavy burden – you’ll need to figure out nearly everything on your own, from food and furniture to linens and liquor. 

Fortunately, Stephanie McLaughlin of Hostess With The Mostess (a BOLI preferred Vendor) can not only lift that backyard burden, but also help you to curate the wedding – and the engagement party, bridal shower, and bachelorette weekend – of your dreams!

• MORE: 8 Tips for a Beautiful Backyard Wedding

“I just loved the creative aspect of things.” – Hostess With The Mostess

After her son was born in 2010, Stephanie was inspired to continue her education at NYIT. “I was getting my bachelors in advertising and communication arts, I just loved the creative aspect of things.” 

Soon, a side business that doubled as a school project blossomed into a very successful venture. “I started a waitressing company called ‘Long Island Wait Staff,’ doing it on the side since I was in school,” Stephanie remembered. “I actually ended up using the staffing company as a project in all my schooling, since we had to do websites and logos and all of those things. And it worked out  perfectly because I was able to have my professors steer me in the right direction. It just kept growing and growing as I was going through school.”

Upon graduation, Stephanie decided to stick with what was working. “By the time I got out of school, I was already making more than an entry-level job would offer just by starting my business,” she explained. “It didn’t make sense to pursue [advertising] as a career anymore, so I used it as a background. And I think that creative perspective ended up helping us with our food creations, our displays, and our visual concepts.” 

“The more they want us to be involved, the more we will be involved.” – Hostess With The Mostess

If the thought of planning your wedding sends you into panic mode, Hostess With The Mostess can be your saving grace. “We can provide people with anything from staffing, rentals, full-blown catering, and then planning,” she described. “We get all their linens, we get all their rentals, and all their glassware comes through us. Basically anything that has to do with the food or the bar, we totally take care of.  [Brides] don’t have to figure out different pieces of the puzzle. We’re very detailed in what we offer, and the more they want us to be involved, the more we will be involved.”

But what if you need help with all those wedding-related events, like bachelorette parties or bridal showers? Hostess With The Mostess can bring their expertise to any party, as Stephanie recounted: “We just did a whole bachelor weekend – five different events throughout the weekend, catering to ten guys from a hotel in Brooklyn, to a roof party, and then we ended up doing a tailgate on Sunday for the Jets game. So although we specialize in weddings, we can literally do whatever you want.” 

In order to make the magic happen, Stephanie relies on the efforts from her experienced and professional staff. “We’re a team of over a hundred, and everyone is fantastic,” she raved. “Most have been with us for years and years. It’s a good working environment.”

• MORE: 15 Unique Bridal Shower Ideas

“She glowed from the inside out.” – Hostess With The Mostess

For Stephanie, the best part of the job is getting to know her clients’ families. “It’s the bride and the groom’s day, and that’s so fantastic,” she explained. “They have so much going on and so many people to see and things to do, and making things easier for them, making sure they’re fed, is great. But I feel like we always get to know the families a little more, especially the bride and groom’s parents. A lot of them might still be married or they’re grandparents, and getting to see them relive the memories of their own weddings – that’s always my favorite.”  

The connections that Stephanie makes with her clients prove to be continually strong and lasting. “We’ll start out by doing someone’s bridal shower, and then we end up doing their backyard wedding, and then two years later we’re at their housewarming party and now, all of the sudden, we’re at their fourth kid’s third birthday. It’s really special.”

As far as favorite events go, one particular wedding sticks out in Stephanie’s mind. “It was a backyard wedding for an older couple,” she remembered. “The vibe that they gave each other was mesmerizing. She was gorgeous anyway, but she just glowed from the inside out. The feeling you had being near them, not only as a couple but as people, was fantastic. They were just really, really good people.”   

“It feels connected and rooted.” – Hostess With The Mostess

When it comes to planning your own big day, Stephanie has a great piece of decorating advice. “Think of repurposing, and bringing in elements to your wedding that are sentimental,” she advises. “We just did a bridal shower recently, and each family member brought china that they got for their own weddings, and it was used as place wear. There are special little things that you can do with anything on your wedding day, and it feels connected and rooted.” 

Repurposing treasured items has another benefit besides sentimentality. “At times like this when everyone wants to cut back financially just a little bit, most people already have stuff that you can use. There have been plenty of times when I’ve driven by something that someone is getting rid of, and it matches one of my bride’s visions for their weddings, so I’ll pick it up and say ‘look what I got for you, this is so cool!’”

• MORE: Pick up a little something for yourself – you deserve it!

Tired of the same old wishing well shower at a restaurant or your mom’s house? These unique ideas are sure to keep your guests talking.

Whether you are planning your own bridal shower, or someone else is (ie. your bride tribe or mother), it doesn’t have to be a traditional gathering where everyone “oohs and aahs” over your gifts. (Unless that’s what you want!) There are so many ideas and themes for bridal showers that can make yours stand out and keep your guests entertained. Here are 15 unique bridal shower ideas to consider.

1. Tea Party
Think finger foods, tea cups and cake. It can be in your home or a restaurant. There are even venues that specialize in hosting just tea parties. Don’t forget to ask your guests to dress up in their finest tea party attire for the occasion.

2. Speakeasy
Hire a mixologist and turn any venue into a speakeasy. Dress in flapper attire. Make it a secret speakeasy and have guests give a code word to get in.

3. Themed
All showers are more fun with a theme. The theme can be anything! From lemons (main squeeze!) or beach-themed, to a favorite movie or TV show. Decorate in flowers and balloons in your favorite color. Make it a seasonal theme. Love everything Disney? Geek out at your shower! Even your favorite band or music can provide the theme. The sky’s the limit with choosing a theme.

4. Jack & Jill
Don’t want to leave your future spouse out? Include them! Have a co-shower and put things they need or want on your registry.

5. Cocktail Hour/Buffet
Skip the sit-down brunch or dinner and have a cocktail hour-style shower. Have buffet stations set up with passed hors d’oeuvres.

MORE: 6 Reasons You Should Go to a Bridal Expo

6. Charcuterie Board
Have an entire bridal shower with just charcuterie boards! Give each board a different theme – classic (with cheese, crackers and assorted meats), fruit, dessert, candy, junk food (think chicken nuggets and fries), etc. Or match the boards to whatever your theme is!

MORE: Check out Veg on Board, a BOLI Preferred Vendor that specializes in fun charcuterie boards!

7. Potluck
If you don’t need gifts, have a potluck shower where everyone brings their favorite dish instead of a gift.

8. Makeup Party
Remember when your mom would host an Avon party? Why not do that for your shower? It can be skin care, makeup, clothes – anything to get your guests to enjoy themselves. And instead of buying something for themselves, they can buy something for you (obviously instead of a regular registry gift).

9. Get Crafty
Think paint party, wood workshop, a floral workshop, etc. Something that is not only fun, but allows your guests to participate and take home a fun gift.

10. Have a Picnic
Check out Long Island Lux Picnic, a BOLI Preferred Vendor! She will set out low tables, blankets, pillows and more! Perfect to throw a unique bridal shower picnic in the warmer months.

Unique Shower Games & Party Ideas

11. Clear Gift Wrap or No Wrapping Paper
Skip opening the gifts by asking guests to either not wrap them, or put them in clear wrapping. This way, you can do a quick show & tell for older generations, while keeping the party moving. Or just skip the show all together and allow guests to walk by and see what you got!

MORE: How to Change Your Last Name on Long Island

12. Mad Lib
Have whoever is planning the party put together a fun Mad Lib game. Guests can fill out their words. Then everyone can take turns filling out the fun riddle.

13. Tool Box
Skip the wishing well, and ask guests to bring something for the toolbox!

14. Candy Buffet Table
Who doesn’t love candy? Make sure to feature all of you and your future spouse’s favorites for guests to make a sweet goodie bag.

15. Anniversary Pinata
Have guests leave a piece of marriage advice and fill the pinata. On your one-year anniversary, break it open and read the words of wisdom.

16. Grab Bag for Guests
Instead of party favors at the tables, why not have a fun grab bag with goodies for your guests?

MORE: I’m a Shy Bride – How Do I Handle Being the Center of Attention?

Stand out from other brides by having your shower and some of these unique venues on Long Island.

Unique Shower Venues on Long Island

Bayard Cutting – Arboretum Great River
Copperhill – Williston Park
Croxley’s Garden Room – Farmingdale
Heritage Club – Bethpage
Library Cafe – Farmingdale, a BOLI Preferred Vendor 
Long Island Yacht Club – Babylon
Post Office Cafe – Babylon, a BOLI Preferred Vendor 
Victorian Room – Bay Shore

If your bridal shower will be planned by other people, make sure you drop those hints. Though we know your family and friends know you best, so your shower will be perfect and just for you. And whatever your shower day brings,remember to have fun and bask in the wedding bliss glow!

Don’t forget to add something from the BOLI store to your registry!

The famed designer debuted dramatic designs with a vibrant New York Bridal Fashion Week show. 

A grandiose hall, an energetic band, and an opulent vibe provided the backdrop to a long-awaited premiere.  

On October 14th, acclaimed designer Pnina Tornai debuted “Mariages,” an innovative collection of bridal and eveningwear that, at moments, drew literal gasps and cheers from the audience.

“Mariages (Weddings) marks my return to the runway after the challenges of the past three years – and the return of big weddings after countless cancellations and postponements,” Tornai said in a program statement. “It is an incredible privilege to be able to bring together the people we love most for grand celebrations of love and commitment, and one we cannot take for granted.”

• MORE: What to Do with Your Dress After Your Wedding

Lavishly detailed body suits, exquisite tulle A-length gowns, and lacy floral appliqués populated the runway as industry and media guests snapped photos, sipped champagne, and made note of the collections’ delicately feminine details. 

The most stunning look of the evening came with the show’s finale – an all-black, sequined minidress with a sheer glitter guipure net bodice, draped wrap skirt and side bow train detail. 

In attendance were key members of the Brides of Long Island staff, led by founder Heather Cunningham – who was seated front row for the runway presentation, along with Real Housewives of New Jersey star Danielle Cabral, “Miss World” Alissa Anderegg, Dancing With The Stars’ Brylee Ivers, and fitness influencer Ellen Decker. 

“Pnina Tornai has a name and a reputation that few in this industry can match,” Cunningham said. “This collection – and this runway show – is a true representation of Pnina’s immense talents and abilities, and I’m genuinely excited for our brides who will wear her designs.” 

“With my Mariages couture collection, I want to showcase the beautiful Pnina world – the ultimate wedding, with all the beautiful things I have designed for my brides,” Tornai continued. “From stunning gowns to short reception dresses, from veils and jewelry to elegant shoes and enviable bridal party looks – I want my Pnina brides to be the most gorgeous versions of themselves from head to toe.”

• MORE: 15 Ways to Save Money on Your Wedding Gown

The show, presented by Tornai, Kleinfeld Bridal, and Sophisticated Weddings magazine, was held in the elegant and historic Manhattan venue Capitale. Cocktails flowed, string quartets played, and hors d’oeuvres were passed as attendees waited for the runway presentation to commence.

After the show, guests were treated to a lively performance by Soulsystem Orchestras, an array of delectable desserts, and the chance to speak with Kleinfeld president Mara Urshel, Kleinfeld CEO Ronnie Rothstein – and even Tornai herself. The gracious designer posed for pictures and shared her ideas and inspiration with attendees. 

Sponsors for the event included Jared, Naturalizer, E2M Fitness, and Florida’s Paradise Coast. Flooring and staging was provided by New Image Dance Floor and Royal Backdrops (a BOLI preferred vendor).   

Images for this article provided by Andy Nasta, an international photographer recently named one of the top 50 Wedding Photographers in the world.

• MORE: Check out the BOLI store!

 

Have fun with your besties with these photos on your wedding day.

There are so many must-have photos when it comes to your wedding day. After family group shots and standard couple photos, it might be easy for you to forget to have fun with your bride tribe. When you meet with your photographer to go over your photo list, make sure you include these 16 must-have photos with your bridesmaids.

1. Getting Ready Outfits
Whether it’s matching robes or pajamas, or just those classic button-down flannel shirts, make sure to get a group shot of everyone in their getting ready outfits. Bonus points if your hair and makeup is done while you’re dressed down.

2. One on One Shots
In all the hustle and bustle of the morning, you might forget to single out your besties for one-on-one photos. Make sure to put this on your photographer must have shot list.

3. Zipping Up the Dress
Or any help getting into your dress. Sure, you may want to have your mom help you, but it’s fun to be surrounded by your bridesmaids too. Who says you can’t have both?

4. Bouquet Toss
OK – hear us out! While the whole bouquet toss ritual might be antiquated, it’s fun to pretend right? Have your girls gather behind you and pretend to toss that bouquet to them. It makes for a fun action shot.

5. Bridesmaid First Look
Sure, you’ve heard of a first look with the groom or even the father, but why not get your bridal party in on the action. Put on your dress in a different room, and capture the moment when your bridesmaids see you for the first time.

MORE: 22 of the Best Photo & Video Vendors on Long Island

6. Cheers!
Pop some bubbly and put those glasses together for a toast. Capture the glasses or the group of you clicking the glasses for a fun photo opportunity.

7. All Dress Photo
Before everyone gets dressed, have your photographer snap some photos of your dress hanging up with the bridesmaid dresses.

8. Being Silly
Shake all that stress away and just be silly with the girls for a few minutes. Capture those moments when you are all laughing and just genuinely enjoying being the moment.

9. Before & After
Strike a pose in street clothes or your getting ready clothes. And then strike the same pose all dolled up in your gowns. The before and after image makes for a fun memory.

10. Reception Entrance
Since the bride and groom walk in last, make sure to ask your photographer to get photos of the bridal party entrance to the reception.

11. Dancing
Grab your bride tribe and rock out on the dance floor. Make sure to pose for the camera as you dance to your favorite songs.

12. Bridesmaids with the Groom
Have your bridesmaids surround your groom for a fun photo. Turn the tables, and have them hold him up (similar to when the groomsmen hold the bride!).

MORE: Bridesmaids Photos That You Absolutely Need

13. Flower Shot
Make sure to get photos of your bridal party with their bouquets. Either go all hands in or hold them up in the air. Either way, it’s good to focus on the beautiful bouquets.

14. Flower Girl
If you have a flower girl, don’t forget to include her! Have your bride tribe surround her and get her ready. Put flowers in her hair, hold her hands, get her pedals ready. Anything to make her feel special.

15. Ceremony Reaction
Everyone loves to see the groom’s reaction as his bride walks down the aisle. But what about your besties? They may shed a tear too. Have your photographer snap some shots of them during the ceremony as you say your vows. Their reactions will be forever captured in the photos.

16. Bubbles or Flower Petal Toss
Have your bridesmaids blow some bubbles or toss rose petals up in the air as they surround you and your groom.

Whatever photos you want, make sure you add them to your photographers ‘must-get’ shot list. This way, nothing gets left out.

MORE: 40 Questions to Ask Your Photographer

The wedding industry’s best and brightest gathered for the streaming series’ premiere at Kleinfeld’s New York salon.

On October 12th, Kleinfeld Bridal – long considered synonymous with the iconic matrimonial mainstay Say Yes to the Dress – held a glitzy and glamorous event to celebrate another soon-to-be classic wedding series premiere. And the Brides of Long Island team was there to celebrate the occasion.  

Wedding Talk, streaming now on Crackle Plus and Chicken Soup for the Soul, is a ten-episode dive into all the intimate and intricate details of the world’s most beautiful weddings. 

Hosted by Olympic gold medalist and beloved commentator Tara Lipinski, the series aims to break down everything from dress designs to dramatic decor, giving viewers an insightful and informative look at an array of epic nuptials. Noted wedding experts José Rolón (of José Rolón Events) and Jove Meyer (named Top Planner by Harper’s Bazaar and The Knot) co-host each episode, discussing the latest wedding trends, ideas, and inspirations.

• MORE: 7 Wedding Gown Options That Will Set You Apart

“Wedding Talk is a gorgeous show, and we are here to celebrate love in all shapes, sizes, and forms,” said Meyer. “The beauty and diversity from [the] filmmakers, from LoveStories TV, is overwhelming. It’s positive, it’s beautiful, and we really can’t wait to share the episodes with you.”

“I’m a hopeless romantic, and watching love stories again and again and again is just so beautiful and a bright spot in the world that we all need,” added fellow expert Rolon. 

Meyer agreed. “It’s so positive to see all these couples truly and genuinely be in love, and celebrate love post-Covid. We all need that right now.”

For host Lipinski, the show provides a breath of fresh air. “I started out as an Olympic athlete, and that was a lot of pressure. Then as a commentator on sports, that was a lot of pressure. This show is so refreshing for me to be a part of because I sit there with my Kleenex box, crying happy tears. You get so invested in these couples’ stories.” 

The Brides of Long Island team, led by founder Heather Cunningham, attended the event in celebration of not only the new series, but a new partnership as well: both Kleinfeld Bridal and Kleinfeld Hotel Blocks are now a part of BOLI’s Preferred Vendor family. 

• MORE: Explore BOLI’s extensive list of preferred vendors

“I’ve been working in the wedding industry for ten years, and Brides of Long Island is like the Bible for brides,” said Alexa Guadagno, sales manager for Kleinfeld Hotel Blocks. “It’s such a great platform for brides when they’re not really sure where to go or what to do. I love that we get the opportunity to partner together.” 

“We are so excited to welcome Kleinfeld to our preferred vendor roster,” commented Cunningham. “The brand possesses all of the qualities that we long for in a vendor – passion, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to artistry and excellence. I’m incredibly proud to have them on board.” 

The BOLI team, along with industry and media guests, enjoyed the event made possible by sponsors including Finlandia Vodka, Penn Station Calligraphy, Elan Artists, and MG Hair and Makeup. 

Be sure to check out Wedding Talk here!

AMP’s Gold Coast mansion headquarters will offer a jaw-dropping location for shoots – and so much more

On September 9th, a new era for Alli Murphy Photography (a BOLI preferred vendor) was triumphantly ushered in, with an epic event that brought together influencers, musicians, the area’s top vendors and artisans, and of course Alli Murphy and her team of talented photographers. 

The soft opening of “Boudoir Manor” –  a 6,000 foot Gold Coast mansion located on a picturesque estate  – introduced AMP’s sprawling new home, featuring a sunlit Great Room, a master suite, several themed rooms, a working shower for water scenes, and even a few equine neighbors. 

“We kind of outgrew our former space a while ago, but it had a lot of character and it was hard to find something that was just perfect,” said Elizabeth Woodward, Alli Murphy Photography’s marketing director. “This happened to fall into our laps at the right time. There’s so much more that we can do with this space. The possibilities are endless here.” 

• MORE: 20 Self-Care Ideas During Wedding Planning 

And in just a few hours at Boudoir Manor, one could see so many of those possibilities – from a romantic shoot in the mint-hued Great Room, to a sunny outdoor setting underneath a ivy-coated pergola, to some scintillating scenarios in an interior space dedicated to BDSM fantasy. 

“We’ve always had a bright and airy feel, and now we’re able to offer a little bit more of an editorial feel as well,” said owner and lead photographer Alli Murphy. “Some of the pictures that we’ve been producing from here literally look like they could be in Vanity Fair. And that’s what we’re most excited about, to offer an experience that’s a level up.”

On the subject of “leveling up,” Boudoir Manor will not only be home to AMP’s studio, but will also be a space for future events and workshops. “We’re always asking our clients what they want to see, what they want to do,” Elizabeth explained. “So that really helped shape the space and will continue to, going forward.”

The soft opening allowed everyone on the AMP team to welcome top influencers and industry professionals to the studio’s new home. Thanks to efforts by Drive Up DJs, Charcuterie Babe, The Bubbly Bar, The Sweet Life LI, Diva Dinners, singer/songwriter Tom Moran, and Good Vibes & Great Pleasure, Manor guests were treated to tours of the mansion, a few edible delicacies, an energizing soundtrack, and the opportunity to create stunning content. 

• MORE: 7 Wedding Gown Options That Will Set You Apart

“I love working with Alli, it’s a great vibe,” said Ivan Galarza of Drive Up DJs. “I’ve done a couple of events with her, and I’m always looking forward to working with her.” Jessica Sidle of Good Vibes and Great Pleasure echoed the sentiment. “This is such a great place to really get together and just be open and talk about really anything,” she said. “Everyone is so welcoming and friendly, and the photography just boosts everyone’s confidence.”

For influencer Amber Diaz, Boudoir Manor provided a gorgeous space to try something new. “Everywhere is beautiful,” she effused. “I took pictures upstairs and in the Great Room. We got some amazing shots from the piano as well. I really love the outside, everything is gorgeous. Alli reached out to me before and I was too nervous at the time, but everyone here makes you feel so comfortable. I’m happy I finally did a shoot, I wouldn’t wait again.”

Boudoir shoots have long been considered a perfect wedding day gift for your fiancé, but many brides are often intimidated by the idea. “Once you step in front of that camera, we treat every client the same,” assured Alli. “We make sure everyone feels beautiful. When I first started doing this, I thought ‘what a sexy gift for your significant other.’ But really, it’s something that changes your perspective on yourself. When you look at yourself through someone else’s eyes, which is really what the camera is, you can say ‘Damn, I look good.’”

Even if taking pictures in lingerie isn’t your thing, Boudoir Manor can provide the backdrop to exactly the kind of photo shoot you envision.  “It’s not just about traditional boudoir anymore,” Elizabeth elaborated. “This space really lends itself to all comfort levels. It’s conducive for a small scale, intimate shoot for you and your fiancé. If you have a fandom, if you have special interests or you want to bring in, say, your fiancé’s car, all of that can be done. Whatever you are into, whatever your heart desires, we can make it happen here.”

And if what your heart desires is a scenic locale for first looks or small elopements, AMP’s Boudoir Manor is a perfect spot. “We’re starting to offer more stylized shoots, where brides can bring their gowns and get some beautiful and unique shots in the space,” Elizabeth mentioned. “For brides who were unhappy with how their wedding pictures turned out, or for brides who were forced to cancel their weddings due to the Covid pandemic, Boudoir Manor gives them another opportunity to capture some truly stunning photos in their dresses.”

Every Alli Murphy Photography experience includes the 3-hour session with hair and makeup, complimentary glass of champagne, use of the client closet, access to all scenes and setups , the seasonal theme of the month, wardrobe consultation, professional editing, and a 1.5-hour full-screen reveal session. 

For a limited time, they’re offering an exciting discount to BOLI followers! 

$0 creative fee and $250 off the á la carte menu OR $850 off any signature collection, plus a complimentary mini add-on! Choose from many small gifts that are great for holiday gifting, including a stainless steel water bottle, mug, ornament, notepad, keychain, magnet, luggage tag, bedside block, and more!   A total savings of more than $1,200! Just mention this BOLI article at booking – this promotion is valid through December 31, 2022 for any shoot date through June 30, 2023. Use code BOLIBRIDE at online booking or call or text (516)500-8711 for more information. 

• MORE: Grab a photoshoot accessory from the BOLI Store

You’ve walked the aisle, said your vows, and enjoyed an amazing party. But does everything change after the wedding is over?

There’s a reason your wedding day is considered a “milestone” – it’s the first day in a lifetime that you’ll spend as a wife. And while most of your brain power has probably been dedicated to solidifying seating charts and picking a perfect playlist, you might have had a few quiet moments to wonder: does everything change after the wedding? Once the party is over and you’re back from the honeymoon, will your relationship with your now-spouse feel drastically different than it did before?

• MORE: 5 Reasons to Have a Long Engagement

“Nothing has changed.”

After speaking with a few Brides of Long Island graduates, the overwhelming consensus is that not much changes after saying “I do.” 

“Do I feel any different in my relationship with my husband? Honestly, not too much,” said BOLI Waleska Marie. “I think this was mostly because we moved in together…and then we bought our first house together in 2020. After the wedding, I went through the name change process and I could finally call myself a Mrs., and that did feel absolutely great to be called his wife. But again, not sure if just that alone helped ‘secure’ our relationship.”

An anonymous BOLI agreed. “I’ve been with my now-husband for 11 years, we got married earlier this summer, and I feel like nothing has changed.”

Fellow BOLI grad Jennifer Anderson was surprised that everything stayed the same post-wedding. “I actually thought that life would feel a little different after we got married,” she said. “It really didn’t. I chalk it up to being with my husband for 6 years before getting engaged, and living together for 2 of those years. Maybe if we had gotten married earlier in our relationship, I would have felt a shift. But waking up the next morning after our wedding was like waking up on any other morning that we’ve spent together – maybe more special, but not ‘different.'”

“I felt grounded and more secure.”

That’s not to say that EVERY bride will feel the same. BOLI founder Heather Cunningham definitely noticed a change after her wedding day. “It was almost like once I was married, I felt grounded and more secure,” she said. “Like we were more of a unit.”

Another anonymous BOLI echoed the sentiment. “I definitely felt different after our wedding,” she noticed. “I can’t really describe what felt different, but something did for sure. I guess I just felt like I had my own family apart from my parents. My fiancé and I didn’t live together until after we got married, so that contributed to the change for us. It was an adjustment, but a good one!”

• MORE: 20 Self-Care Ideas During Wedding Planning

Will things change for you?

Every person – and every circumstance – is different. You may feel like marriage changes a lot, or you may feel like marriage changes nothing. In either case, it’s a normal part of your relationship’s evolution.

Of course, any changes you experience after marriage should be positive ones. If you find that the opposite is true, reach out to a qualified couple’s counselor for guidance and advice.  

• MORE: *adds “shop at the BOLI store” to wedding to-do list*

In Brides of Long Island’s Monthly “Mrs.” series, we profile some of our members’ unforgettable weddings. This month, we spoke with Shana Power about her wedding at Sea Cliff Manor and why it’s important to ask venues about tents!

When Shana and Conor Power started dating in high school, they never imagined they’d be saying ‘I Do’ during a hurricane! But Shana says nothing was going to stop her from having her dream wedding to Conor.

A Surprise Pandemic Proposal
Shana says she and Conor dated for a few years in high school, but later broke up. After maybe six years, she says they reconnected and started dating again. They got engaged in April of 2020, on the 10-year anniversary of when they first started dating. And when Conor proposed, Shana says she was very surprised. “I was like, ‘What are you doing here? The world is shut down!’” she explains. “It was the only true surprise I will ever have. I was very shocked, in a good way.”

Since the world had shut down, Shana says planning was hard at first. “We were definitely battling everyone having their weddings rescheduled from 2020 to 2021.” She says they were only able to tour one venue – the Sea Cliff Manor – and she fell in love instantly. Luckily, Sea Cliff had a few wedding dates available, and one was a Sunday in August. “I was like, August is perfect,” says Shana. “I’m born in August, so it’s good luck.”

MORE: 39 Questions to Ask When Touring a Venue

All About Location
Shana says that the venue was the most important vendor to her and Conor. She had worked in event planning before her current profession in cyber security, so she was familiar with wedding planning on Long Island. “I knew if we could find a great venue who has a day of coordinator, has really good reviews and who could handle all of the big things the day of, then I wouldn’t have to worry as much,” says Shana.

Shana says she wanted to focus on the atmosphere and how people would feel at her wedding. “I think Sea Cliff Manor is the perfect blend of classic and Long Island chic. It is that old manor house that you think of when you think of Great Gatsby,” she adds.

A great photographer was also important to Shana and Conor. She explains that they’re not photo people, and needed to find a photographer who could make them feel comfortable. “We definitely interviewed a few before we settled on Wavelight with Noah,” she says. “He is just the best. Talking with him is like talking to an old friend. I just felt relaxed [with him].” And she says she knows she made the right decision because you can really feel the day in the photos.

An Intimate, and Rainy, Wedding
When Aug. 22, 2021 came around, so did Hurricane Henri! “I think every single wedding on Long Island got canceled,” she says. “It was absolutely insane. We got married outside under a tent in the garden area.”

But Shana says nothing was going to stop her and Conor from getting married. “I was not planning my wedding for one more minute!” She adds that her pastor has traveled from Virginia to Long Island to marry them – as well as family and friends. All of her vendors did check in the day before when they heard the forecast. “I’m happy it all worked out in the end. That all of my vendors really did come through.”

Once her hair and makeup were done though, she was calm and nothing could phase her. Sure, the limo was running late and it was pouring rain, but she didn’t care. “I looked beautiful. The dress was great. That was all that mattered.”

And she knows everyone had a great time too! She explains that the next day, she asked her friends and family if anyone had any photos or videos. “I think my aunt had four, and his friend had five, but that was it,” she says. “That’s what stood out to us. That everyone was just in the moment. Everyone was super engaged.” She adds that the fact that there were no photos the next day proves that everyone was just having a good time, and forgot to take out their phones.

MORE: 6 Reasons Why Rain on Your Wedding Day Can Be Awesome

A Special Rum Punch
Something that Shana says her guests really enjoyed – her grandmother’s rum punch! “My grandmother grew up in Barbados, so she’s Bajan. We did a Bajan-style rum punch and gave Sea Cliff the recipe that my grandmother used.” They were very specific with the four ingredients, and she says it was fantastic. “All of my family were like, ‘this tastes exactly like what granny used to make.’”

Go With the Flow & Pick Your Battles
As a graduated BOLI, Shana recommends brides only worry about a few things that are most important to you, and everything else will fall into place. She says it’s important not to fight every fight. “Just pick your battles. If you care about one to two things, it makes the rest of the decision making easier.”

MORE: Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff

She says that with all of the stressful planning, it’s important to remember why you’re getting married and why you love your future spouse. “At the end of the day, if everything goes wrong, and you still want to marry this person, then nothing else matters.” She adds that due to the hurricane, her wedding was literally nothing that she imagined it would be. She thought to herself that she’d have beautiful weather at the end of August to enjoy the gorgeous garden at Sea Cliff. “None of that happened. There was a leak when we walked in. We got married under a tent. But what was I going to do? It was already happening. So I stayed calm and just enjoyed the day.” She does suggest when looking at venues to make sure there is a rain plan.

Vendors:
Venue: Sea Cliff Manor
Photographer/Videography: Wavelight Photography (Noah Barker)
DJ: One Sound (Steve Wickes)
Florist: Westminster Nursery & Garden Center (Nelly)
Hair: Nicole Rose Salon (Bridal stylist – Karissa)
Makeup: Elle B Makeup
Dress: Lovely Bride NYC
Alterations: My Daughter’s Wedding III
Tuxedos: Foresto Tuxedo