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Michelle and Rob’s Backyard Wedding

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Michelle and Rob’s Backyard Wedding

Posted on May 20, 2021 by Allison Dupree

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How did you meet?

Michelle and Rob serendipitously met at the bride’s apartment. The summer was ending, a trying one for Michelle, and she was getting ready to go “back to work” as a teacher during COVID lockdown. When she entered her spare room to set up a make-shift classroom/studio for virtual learning, she noticed what she thought was mold on a ceiling vent. After freaking out, she and her aunt called many remediation companies. No one responded–except for the company Rob was running. He came in on his white horse and saved the day. Michelle was struck by his genuine nature & concern. She jokingly told her best friend that night that she had met her soulmate. It was simply meant to be. Michelle says, “Robert came into my life at a time that I needed his pure soul and love the most, unbeknownst to him. I will forever be grateful for that mold!”

How did you get engaged?
Michelle and Rob got engaged at the very place where they met – Michelle’s apartment. Michelle came home to find candles all over the house, rose petals, a plethora of bouquets, champagne, and chocolate-covered strawberries.

Details of the day!
The wedding was an intimate affair with high-top tables, perfect for mingling amongst guests. The ceremony took place under a beautiful birch arbor dressed with eucalyptus garland and roses within Michelle’s color palette- cream, soft pink, white, and a deep blue. Michelle’s bouquet was roses and silver dollar eucalyptus. Preparing for a chilly day, the couple opted for renting patio heaters to be safe. Adding an element of glamour for Michelle, a crystal chandelier was added to the tent, completing the elegant, classy relaxed look of the day. For a surprise element, the couple went with a violinist to provide the music for their ceremony, first dance, and background music throughout the day. They also brought in a mobile photo booth to add more fun to the day!

Why did you choose your venue?
Michelle and Rob originally planned to have their wedding at the Ashford Estate. However, fate took over and the couple decided it was more important to have their family together. Michelle’s stepfather & mother were ill (not COVID) and the only option they saw to ensure both could attend would be to have the wedding in Michelle’s family’s backyard within a month of the engagement! Space was limited, but given it was a pandemic, Michelle and Rob had a 40 person guest list. Sadly, Michelle’s step-father took a turn for the worst and passed away on the Tuesday leading up to Michelle and Rob’s wedding. It was a roller-coaster of emotions, but Michelle said that her stepfather, Stu, would want her to see her plans through. She and Rob were married in his favorite place on earth just a day following his services.

What was on your menu?
Michelle and Rob opted for a prolonged cocktail hour. A grazing table, carving stations and passed hors d’oeurves were available throughout the night. A classic buttercream white wedding cake touches on the tradition but is minimally decorated for a modern feel.

All about your gown!
Being that they decided to get married in essentially a month due to a family emergency, Michelle was nervous that she would not find the dress of her dreams. Thankfully, Jackie from Castle Couture, along with her mom & stepmom, weeded through several options with her during my appointment. She knew the dress was “the one” when she felt beautiful, confident, and like her ‘vision’ was realized.

What was your favorite moment?
It’s hard to pick just one, as Billie (the event coordinator) ensured the whole day was beyond magical! Michelle really enjoyed looking around her stepfather’s beloved backyard, with her soulmate, watching the people they love, laughing, enjoying themselves, and supporting them as a couple. There is nothing more special than that, especially in these uncertain times. She also enjoyed their vows – seeing Robert tear up made her heart melt.

One detail you couldn’t live without?
Michelle would have to say the way in which Billie and her team of vendors transformed the backyard is what really made it so magical. When she looked back there for the first time, she was in awe.

Did anything go wrong?
The only thing that went wrong was that Michelle’s stepfather passed before he could help walk her down the aisle.

From a planning perspective, the only thing that went wrong was that it rained several inches the day before Michelle and Rob’s wedding. Thankfully, Michelle’s stepfather had the backyard astro-turfed before his passing for ease of maintenance. It made the backyard dry out completely before the wedding.

First dance song?
Elvis Presley – “I Can’t Help Falling In Love With You” performed by Ceremonious Strings Duo

Any advice for future brides?
Focus on what you believe is most important. It is your “day”, but most importantly it’s your marriage. There are sentiments that we were able to keep in mind due to Billie’s assistance. Hiring a talented, compassionate wedding planner, like Billie, was truly integral.

Honeymoon Location?
The couple would love to be able to go to a tropical location this summer. Being that she is a teacher and there’s a pandemic going on, they haven’t been able to get away yet. She went back to work on Monday after their Saturday wedding as students were returning to the classroom for the first time that day. However, a hut on a beach with a beautiful ocean and swim-up bar is calling their names come this summer!

the details

Hometowns

Freehold, NJ

Ceremony Location

Family Backyard

Photographer

Jill Lynn Photography

Officiant

Sherly Lipuma

Bride’s Gown

Pronovias - Hevea

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Michelle and Rob’s Backyard Wedding

the details

Hometowns

Ceremony Location

Photographer

Officiant

Bride’s Gown

Bride’s Shoes

Hair

Makeup

Groom’s Attire

Flowers

Cake

Invites

Music

Favors

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