Triss and Christopher tied the knot on June 2, 2024 at Crystal Springs Resort.

Their Story

Triss and Christopher Reaves have good rhythm. It was, in fact, one of the very first things she saw in him when they met at a Zumba class in 2019. Afterward, “she stopped me to tell me what a wonderful dancer I was and that it was rare to see men take Zumba,” Christopher recalls. “I love dance,” Triss says, “and I noticed his technical skill right away.”

Early conversations led to more shared classes; after the pandemic hit, they switched to hikes and at-home workouts, and their connection turned into romance.

He, an auto insurance claims professional and body-building devotee, was impressed by her unflagging enthusiasm; she, a pharmaceutical social media manager as well as a fitness and dance instructor, felt inspired to be better when they were together.

“We bring out the best in each other,” she says. They even have a sweet joint nickname: Trisstopher.

The Proposal 

Two years after the pair started dating, Christopher planned to propose near Juliet’s balcony in Verona, Italy. But the popular tourist site was mobbed. “We couldn’t even get close,” Christopher recalls. Instead, the couple took a funicular to an overlook by Castel San Pietro, with sweeping views of the city, where he surprised Triss with a ring.

[RELATED: The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Venues in New Jersey]

Details of the Day

After much searching, the couple knew that Crystal Springs Resort was the one. The picturesque location evoked national parks and had a “destination wedding vibe, close to home.” The property’s abundant hydrangeas—Triss’s favorite bloom—became an instant theme.

For the reception, on June 2, 2024, she wanted guests to feel transported to a flower field, and every detail—from the live flower-wall seating chart and selfie station, to edible blooms on the cake and champagne tower, to vines in the chandeliers, to centerpieces that guests took home—brought that to life.

Late in the evening, after the bride changed into a pantsuit and custom Converse sneakers, they gathered their guests for a surprise Zumba performance. The big finish? Tossing the bouquet!

[WATCH IT BELOW]

Aisle Style

After several shopping trips, Triss found the perfect, body-skimming Justin Alexander gown. She set it off with a veil and goddess-style crown. The groom went with a sleek black-on-black look. The bridesmaids wore dusty rose, the groomsmen, navy.

Menu Highlights

A 90-minute “cocktail hour and a half” before dinner allowed for private time post-ceremony, plus ample time to mingle with guests and enjoy crab puffs and caviar.

Mr. Waffles, the couple’s beloved Cavapoo, was featured on bar menus and cocktail napkins. A wall of doughnuts—Christopher’s favorite sweet—was a dessert hit.

Advice For Other Couples

“Take time for a private last dance,” says Triss. The couple ended their reception at 10:45 p.m. and enjoyed the last 15 minutes alone on the dance floor. “We were able to collect ourselves and reflect on the day.”

Honeymoon

The Wharton couple honeymooned for 12 days in Greece, visiting Athens, Mykonos, Milos and Santorini. 

Sign up for our Something New newsletter for weekly wedding ideas, inspiration and advice from expert NJ vendors, New Jersey Bride’s editorial team and real couples—sent right to your inbox!