An Intimate Summer Wedding in Westfield With the Ceremony at James Ward Mansion & the Reception at Ferraro’s

When Heather and Brandon chose The James Ward Mansion and Ferraro’s in Westfield for their June 28, 2026 wedding, the decision was deeply personal on both counts. The James Ward Mansion offered the timeless elegance they were looking for, and Ferraro’s was where the couple had celebrated every milestone of their relationship so far. Beautifully photographed by Emma Cleary Photography, their summer celebration was warm, intimate and full of meaning: an airy chuppah draped in soft fabric and creamy blooms, ivory and gold tones throughout, and Heather in the Takara gown by Maggie Sottero with a 10.5-foot mantilla veil that felt, in her own words, almost ethereal as she walked down the aisle to ‘As The World Falls Down’. Guests walked between two beloved Westfield venues for a night that felt less like a wedding and more like the best hometown celebration imaginable.

Their Story

“We met at Crunch Gym in Garwood, New Jersey. Brandon was on the heavy bags boxing. I’d always wanted to learn, and we started talking,” says Heather. “What I didn’t know was that he was waiting for me to finish my nursing school finals before asking me out. His first invite was to teach me how to box, and we started our ongoing Friday night date tradition.”

The Proposal

“I’d always admired my mom’s marquise diamond ring and I dreamed of having one of my own. Brandon surprised me after dinner at one of our favorite Mexican restaurants. As I had my back turned, putting an item away in my closet, I turned around to find him on one knee. The quiet, private moment was simple, heartfelt, and perfectly us.”

Choosing the Venue

“We chose The James Ward Mansion for its timeless elegance and Ferraro’s because it felt like family—Brandon coached the owner’s son in boxing for years and we celebrated every milestone in our relationship there,” says Heather. “We loved that guests could walk between the venues, creating the perfect hometown feel for our beautiful summer wedding.”

Details of the Day

“We wanted the day to feel warm, elegant and timeless, never uptight. Our friends and family feeling at ease yet taken care of was my goal. Our chuppah was airy and lush, soft, draping fabrics and creamy blooms. Ivory, white and touches of gold set the tone. Brandon’s boutonniere was white heather, a sweet nod to my name. We chose details that felt classic, and personal—so that when we look back years from now, it still feels like us.”

Favorite Moment

“Walking down the aisle to ‘As The World Falls Down’ by our pianist Alexander Bui felt so personal, then the recessional song ‘Come On Eileen’ was pure joy. I loved how our traditional Jewish ceremony flowed straight into a lively reception at Ferraro’s. That contrast felt so us. We were able to blend tradition with deeply personal moments.”

Wedding Day Attire

“I wore the Takara gown by Maggie Sottero with long lace sleeves and intricate detail. My mantilla veil was 10 1/2 feet long and stunning. My mantilla veil floated behind me and as I walked it almost felt ethereal. Brandon chose a classic tux. My MOH wore a gold one-shoulder gown. Our best man matched Brandon. Timeless and cohesive.”

Advice For Other Couples

“Stay true to yourselves. Don’t force traditions that don’t fit. Choose only the people and moments you’ll want to remember. We kept it small. Brandon’s brother was his best man and my MOH was my SIL. I got ready quietly with just my hair and MUA and it felt incredibly grounding. Make it yours, not a checklist.”

Honeymoon

“We honeymooned at historic Omni Bedford Springs in Pennsylvania, enjoying the spa and pool during a heatwave. I took a class and made framed art with lace from my gown and pressed bouquet flowers. We then spent July 4th at a resort just outside Gettysburg, dining at Dobbin House and watching resort fireworks—the perfect mix of relaxation, history and adventure.”