When Ally and Chris chose the Big Sky Pavilion at Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg for their August 16, 2026 wedding, the breathtaking views of the golf course and surrounding mountains were the deciding factor. Their summer celebration was classic black and white with vintage touches throughout: antique cut-crystal centerpieces holding white florals, lace and gold detailing, and table numbers featuring photos of the couple at each age.
Their Story
Their story began on Halloween, where Ally, dressed as Uma Thurman from “Kill Bill,” met Chris through her sister and her boyfriend. A month later, they went on their first date at Cheesecake Factory, bonded over softball, baseball and their love of the Dallas Cowboys. Fiveyears later, they’ve built a life together, all thanks to a little matchmaking.
The Proposal
In Cape May, Chris took Ally to the beach to look for sea glass, when Ally picked up a “Cape May Diamond” and joked, “This is the only diamond I’ll ever get.” Chris got down on one knee, and she didn’t believe him until he revealed the ring! He then surprised her with roses, strawberries and both families at a planned dinner.
Choosing the Venue
“We love traveling and exploring National Parks,” says Ally, “so when choosing our venue, we wanted a place surrounded by beautiful scenery.”
“The Big Sky Pavilion at Crystal Springs Resort was perfect, with breathtaking views of the golf course and mountains. Although, if you ask Chris, he’ll admit the real reason was having an excuse for a golf outing!”
Jacqueline Aleace
Details of the Day
“Our wedding was classic black and white with vintage touches, lace and gold detailing. Antique cut-crystal pieces held our white floral centerpieces, while ‘When We Were’ table numbers featured photos of us at each age.”
“Our love of golf inspired a ‘Hats Off to You’ display, and Grand Teton engagement photos and a five-year adventure wall told our story. Personal letters welcomed all 200 guests, and our Polaroid guest book added a vintage scrapbook feel. Even with rain, our indoor ceremony was beautiful.”
Favorite Moment
“My favorite moment was walking down the aisle, seeing Chris and all the people we love in one room. I couldn’t stop smiling and laughing. Our first dance was another favorite—even though we were nervous, our happiness made it effortless. And, of course, the dance floor was electric. We wouldn’t trade that energy for the world!”
Wedding Day Attire
“The bridesmaids each chose their favorite black chiffon dress from Azazie, allowing them to feel beautiful and comfortable. The groomsmen wore classic black tuxedos from Men’s Wearhouse. Bridesmaids carried three-stem white rose bouquets, while the bride carried a romantic bouquet of white roses with cascading orchids.”
Advice For Other Couples
“We planned to have everything completed two weeks before the wedding, which made the final week much less stressful and time to take it in. A few details changed, but being packed and ready early let us truly enjoy those last few days. Having out-of-state friends stay with us made it feel like a full weekend celebration—not just one day!”
Honeymoon
“For our honeymoon, we spent a week at Sandals Saint Vincent, enjoying a relaxing tropical escape. We spent our days on the beach, floating on water rafts, snorkeling, and sipping tropical drinks—especially the Couple’s Delight! We loved dining at Butch’s and Gatsu Gatsu and getting to know the wonderful staff who made our honeymoon unforgettable.”
Where Mountain Grandeur Meets Manhattan Style Escape to the picturesque peaks of northwestern New Jersey, where Crystal Springs Country Club at Grand Cascades Lodge redefines the destination ...
