July 1, 2010

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Marie Labbancz Photography

When Lisa Bechtel and Richard Freeman began planning their April 10, 2010, nuptials, they knew they wanted a whimsical wedding that focused on family. (Lisa has a son, and Richard a son and daughter from previous marriages.) But they also wanted it to reflect their fun-loving personalities. They started by choosing One Atlantic, a new venue on the boardwalk in Atlantic City that extends out over the ocean. With the sea as their backdrop, the couple, both healthcare administrators and native Philadelphians, exchanged vows at dusk with hundreds of white lights and candles glimmering overhead. “I wanted the ceremony to feel romantic and magical,” says Lisa.

Bash on the Boardwalk

After the “I dos,” guests enjoyed signature cocktails and butler-passed hors d’oeuvres including crab “cigars” artfully displayed in cigar boxes. For the first half of the cocktail hour, a string quartet played rock and alternative music before a deejay took over and the 150 guests watched in awe as the black-clad living statues around the room came to life. The surprises didn’t end there. During a dinner that featured braised short ribs, mushroom cappuccino, mahi mahi, and veal chops, a solo on the electric violin led into a Cirque du Soleil–type performance of the “bubble man,” who mesmerized onlookers from inside a confetti-filled balloon. “We wanted something so unusual that our guests would never forget it,” says Lisa. The evening continued with a show-stopping lineup of entertainers including a Neil Diamond impersonator, bongo player, stiltwalker, “butterfly man” maneuvering a giant butterfly overhead, and dancing feather ladies in elaborate costumes.

Indeed everyone, including Lisa who swapped her strapless silk Amy Michelson wedding gown for a short platinum party dress, stopped dancing just long enough to visit “the dessert experience,” a room filled with a jaw-dropping array of treats. “We didn’t want a traditional wedding cake,” says Lisa. “Instead we had many of our favorite sweets including candies from our childhood and today.”

A final twist: While planning her extravaganza, Lisa participated in the TLC television show Four Weddings, in which she and three other brides attend and rate each other’s affairs. Not surprisingly, Lisa and Richard’s extraordinary event took first place and won them a trip to Aruba. Having already honeymooned in France, the couple, who reside in Ventnor and New York City, decided to make the beach vacation a family getaway.

Looking back, Lisa would change just one thing about her big day: “I would have extended the party beyond 1:00 a.m. so that we could have celebrated until sunrise!”

Tag Topics: Atlantic City, Atlantic City weddings, Kristen Finello, One Atlantic, real weddings

Latest Comments

Lisa's Dress

I saw the show on demand a month or two ago and I just want to know who the designer of her dress was and what the style number or name of it was. I absolutely loved it!

My email memnj2@yahoo.com

Posted by Mariellen April 29, 2011 00:25:11
I Enjoyed Working with Lisa and Richard

We were the Entertainment Company Lisa and Richard hired to provide our DJ Services, Percussionist/Bongo Player and Videography Services. Lisa was a detailed bride who knew from the start exactly what she wanted and how she wanted to WOW her guests. Lisa is a huge music lover and worked closely with us to create a perfect playlist to keep their guests dancing all night. From the time the first forks touched the plates after dinner to the last dance it was a non-stop party. Working together with Lisa, Her Other Entertainment Providers and her Venue we helped her make their Wedding Flawless.

I have been in the Memory Business for over 22 years and truly enjoyed helping make this event exceptional. Everything was perfect from the Staff at the Spectacular One Atlantic to The Extra Entertainment. The staff from TLC made it easy for us to do what we do best. Their camera crew was Pleasant and Professional. We are so glad they won. I agree with Lisa. I too wished we could have partied till dawn.

I always say we are not in The DJ Business we are in The Memory Business. I have found people always remember 3 things after an event. They remember Where They Went, Who They Went For and What a Good Time or Bad Time they had at the event. Everyone in attendance everyone walked away saying this was an Amazing Event at a Spectacular Venue. A event that truly captured their love for each other and their unique personalities, from Richard’s love of Fine Food and Wine to Lisa’s love for Extraordinary Fun, Great Music and Dancing. Their guests will always remember an evening filled with Fun, Laughter, Excitement and a Great Time had by all. This is a Wedding that everyone in attendance will never forget.

Lisa and Richard thanks for allowing us to help you make your Wedding Reception Fun, Unique and Memorable.

Sincerely,

Mark Klatskin – President
Encore Entertainment & Ultrax Disc Jockeys
Entertianment, Photography, Videography & Photo Booths
1-800-858-7291 or (609) 931-0604
www.ThePartyExperts.com

Posted by Mark Klatskin September 16, 2010 02:16:48
Lisa's career

I am interested in getting in contact with Lisa as I am a healthcare professional in Ohio/WV seeking a possible relocation. I am searching for a mentor to guide in my career path.
My email: smith1334@marshall.edu

Posted by Angela Williamson August 08, 2010 11:25:15