Mini Limoncello Favors & a Cascading Florals at Pleasantdale Château

When Lisa and Michael drove through the gates of Pleasantdale Château in West Orange for the first time, the decision was made on the spot. Elegant, timeless, and European in feel, it was everything they’d imagined for their October 11, 2024 celebration—beautifully photographed by Gabelli Studio. Inside, Lisa wore a Pnina Tornai lace gown she found on her very first shopping trip, soft white and blush florals by Debbie’s Designs filled the space with romantic warmth, and gold accents carried throughout the reception. Five dinner options and a parade of passed desserts kept the celebration going well into the evening, and guests left with mini limoncello bottles—a sweet nod to the couple’s Italian heritage and the perfect parting gift for a wedding that felt as warm and celebratory as the occasion deserved.

Their Story

“We met on Hinge during Covid, completely by chance. We both happened to be in Point Pleasant for the weekend, which put us close enough to match—something that never would have happened with our usual distance settings. Our first meeting, masks and all, was at DJais in Belmar…a true Jersey Shore love story,” says Lisa.

The Proposal

“We spent the weekend in Cape May celebrating our birthdays, which are only a few days apart. Michael had been planning a beautiful picnic-style proposal for seven months. He brought me to the beach under the pretense of watching the sunset, and that’s where he proposed. The next day, we celebrated with our friends and family at a surprise engagement party.”

Choosing the Venue

“The second we drove through the gates of the Pleasantdale Chateau, we knew it was the one,” says Lisa. “It was everything we dreamed of—elegant, timeless, and beautifully European in style. I still wish I could be there every day.”

Details of the Day

“We chose a simple, romantic aesthetic with my lace dress, soft white and light pink florals, and gold accents throughout,” says Lisa. “Our centerpieces were beautifully elegant, and one of the highlights was our staircase adorned with cascading flowers—everyone loved it. The food was delicious with five dinner options and a variety of passed around desserts that just kept coming! For favors, we handed out mini limoncello bottles as a nod to our Italian heritage.”

Favorite Moment

“My favorite moment was our first look. We made sure to take some time to really take in the day!”

Wedding Day Attire

“My dress was from Pnina Tornai. It was one of the first dresses I tried on and I instantly knew it was the one! I only went shopping once!”

Advice For Other Couples

“Don’t stress over the small details—your guests won’t notice what’s missing. Focus on the big moments and the reason everyone is gathered there. There will never be another time in your life when everyone you love is in one place celebrating you and your husband/wife.”