They Had Their First Date at Willow Creek Winery—Then Got Married There Too

Alison Elf and Jacob Heyser attended the same college but never quite crossed paths—it took a chance encounter at a Shore coffee shop after graduation to spark something. With Jacob’s family rooted in Avalon and Alison’s in Stone Harbor, their two worlds had always been closer than they realized. When it came time to choose a wedding venue, the answer was easy: Willow Creek Winery in West Cape May, the very spot where they’d had their first date, brought their love story beautifully full circle. Photographed by Morgan Taylor Artistry, their September 12, 2025 celebration was a romantic Southern garden party in warm shades of soft orange, pink, peach, and cream—with vibrant dahlias by Elizabeth Margaret Events, pink scalloped linens, a charming white trolley ferrying guests to the Winemaker’s Patio, and Alison’s brother Steven officiating a ceremony that felt as personal as it was picturesque.

Their Story

Although Alison Elf and Jacob Heyser attended Susquehanna University at the same time, their paths never quite crossed on campus. It wasn’t until after graduation, at the Shore in Stone Harbor, that everything aligned.

A chance run-in at a local coffee shop led to a spark—and soon, their first date. With Jacob’s family’s beach roots in Avalon and Alison’s in Stone Harbor, their lives blended seamlessly. “Our two worlds collided in the most perfect way,” Alison recalls.

The Proposal

Under the guise of a Father’s Day celebration, Jacob brought Alison to his family’s bayfront home in Avalon for a drink before dinner. As the sun began to set, he led her down to the dock and got down on one knee. When Alison turned back toward the house, both of their families were waiting, cheering them on.

Moments later, Jacob whisked her to the beach for sunset photos—followed by another surprise: a gathering of close friends. “It was surprise after surprise in the best possible way,” Alison says.

Details of the Day

The couple chose Willow Creek Winery in West Cape May—the site of their first date—as their venue, bringing their story full circle. Elizabeth Margaret Events incorporated warm hues of soft oranges, pinks, peaches and creams into the florals and decor, creating a romantic, Southern garden party aesthetic for the September 12, 2025, big day. Guests were transported by a charming white trolley to the Winemaker’s Patio, where pink linens, scalloped plates and vibrant dahlias carried the theme into the cocktail hour and reception. Personal touches included a cigar bar with custom matchboxes and a bar menu of four favorite cocktails: espresso martinis, key lime margaritas, cosmopolitans and classic Manhattans. For their first dance, the couple chose “Bathroom Light” by Mt. Joy.

Detail They Couldn’t Live Without

Alison’s brother, Steven, officiated the ceremony, making the moment especially meaningful for the couple.

Wedding Day Attire

Alison envisioned a timeless look: “No lace, no frills—very minimal, yet elegant.” At DayDream Bridal in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, she found her heart’s desire: a strapless ball gown with a sculpted cowl neckline and a subtle slit by Jenny Yoo.

Menu Highlights

Guests enjoyed a selection of hors d’oeuvres including bacon-wrapped scallops, coconut shrimp and caprese skewers, along with seafood and quesadilla stations. Dinner featured filet mignon, salmon with lobster sauce and pasta primavera. A three-tiered funfetti, vanilla and chocolate cake provided a sweet ending.

Advice For Other Couples

“Lean on your people,” Alison says. “And soak in every second—from getting ready to the last dance.”

Honeymoon

The newlyweds spent 10 dreamy days in Mallorca, Spain, splitting their time between Port de Sóller and Cap de Formentor. Today, they are settling into their first home in Haddon Township.