Their Story

Kristen and Phillip got married on December 7, 2023 at Shadowbrook at Shrewsbury. They originally met at work, at a car dealership, starting out as friends before things turned romantic.

Michael Romeo Creations

The Proposal

Phillip proposed in Las Vegas on a trip for Kristen’s birthday.

Michael Romeo Creations

“He had my ring custom made and ready to go for my proposal,” she says. “He was taking pictures of me and the ring while I was sleeping on the plane and I didn’t even know it.”

Michael Romeo Creations

Choosing the Venue

“The place itself is absolutely stunning, and when decorated for Christmas it gives you a farm, magical feeling,” says Kristen, whose wedding was in December. Shrewsbury, where Shadowbrook at Shrewsbury is located, was also a convenient location for their guests.

Michael Romeo Creations

Details of the Day 

“The theme of our wedding was based around Christmas,” says Kristen. “We wanted it to be timeless and romantic.”

Michael Romeo Creations

To that end, they used deeps reds, golds and whites.

Michael Romeo Creations

Large candelabras as centerpieces brought warmth to the ballroom, which also featured a fireplace. During the ceremony, the arch was covered in gorgeous red and white florals, and candles lined the aisle.

Favorite Moment

Their first dance.

Michael Romeo Creations

Detail They Couldn’t Live Without 

“The special effects we decided to incorporate into our wedding reception; our guests loved every minute of it. We decided to do a second dance after we cut the cake and invited all of our guests to be part of that dance with us. They got to experience the fog, sparklers and snowfall [which we had during our first dance].”

Michael Romeo Creations

Advice for Other Couples

“Take your time planning. Research all your vendors. Having the best vendors is key to a smooth and successful wedding.”

Michael Romeo Creations

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PHILLIP and KRISTEN's vendor team

Platinum Venues Listing Category Shadowbrook at Shrewsbury A wedding at Shadowbrook at Shrewsbury.

Shadowbrook at Shrewsbury

Shrewsbury, New Jersey

Shadowbrook at Shrewsbury is a luxury wedding venue that exudes the perfect balance of old-world charm matched with luxurious amenities. The Shadowbrook estate is an historic landmark, ...

Platinum Cakes Listing Category Calandra’s Bakery

Calandra’s Bakery

Caldwell, New Jersey

Calandra’s Bakery is a firm believer that your wedding day is one of the most memorable days of your life. There are certain elements people remember: the bride’s ...

SCE Event Group

Long Branch, New Jersey

SCE Event Group prides themselves on being different than any other deejay company, anywhere in the world. They are passionate, insanely creative—and “average” just isn’t what they’re ...

Marquis Florals and Event Design

Matawan, New Jersey

For nearly 35 years Marquis Florals by Kim in Old Bridge has been custom-designing wedding and party flowers. From arranging bouquets for the bride and bridal party ...

Michael Romeo Creations

Photographer

Website

SCE Event Group / Jeff Scott Gould

Entertainment

Marquis Florals by Kim

Florist

Senada K. Ceda / Jamie Saunders

Hair & Makeup

Eve of Milady from Castle Couture

Gown

Renzrags

Bridesmaid Dresses

Dante Zeller

Tuxedos/Suits

Calandra's Bakery

Cake

MAKEUP ROBE- LELAURIER, AMADINA.P / SHOES- BELLA BELL SHOES/ HEADPIECE- CASTLE COUTURE

Miscellaneous

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