What Happens When a Wedding Planner Gets Married? A Cocktail-Style Reception at a Bar

Joy and Adam had their reception at Dear Maud in Hoboken on August 24, 2024.

Their Story

The couple met through mutual friends but only started dating in 2021.

The Proposal

Adam proposed to Joy under the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, in April of 2023. They know that planning a wedding that was true to their personalities was of the utmost importance.

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Choosing the Venue

The couple chose Dear Maud, a bar in Hoboken, for their reception.

“It is our neighborhood restaurant and bar,” says Joy. “We love their bar food, cocktails and the vibes.”

The bride, a wedding planner, redefined tradition by creating a celebration that felt true to the couple, embracing their tastes, and throwing a memorable party for friends and family.

“This wedding is a perfect example of how breaking the rules and doing what feels right to you can result in an unforgettable event,” says Joy.

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Details of the Day

Their ceremony on August 23, 2024, was for immediate family only. It took place in the bride’s parents’ backyard and was followed by a private dining room experience at The Capital Grille.

The bride and friends enjoyed a private class at The Drip Studio in Hoboken on the morning of the reception. Getting ready did not start until noon, but close friends were invited to join for optional services including the bride hanging in an NYC-facing suite in Hoboken while the groom treated his friends to fancy shaves and haircuts at Mark Daniel Salon.

Their Old Hollywood-themed, cocktail-style reception took place on august 24, 2024 at Dear Maud. The bride worked with day-of coordinator Annalise Capano to make her vision come to life.

The first look was on the Hoboken waterfront, followed by cocktails with friends at the W Hotel instead of portraits. The entire reception was cocktail-style, with an invite time of 7pm-midnight and a packed dance floor.

The host restaurant, Dear Maud, was totally transformed by Ahna Han Floral, Drape Kings Draping, a DJ and two surprise musicians, dance floor pass-arounds and thoughtfully designed signage by Polk Paper transformed the space.

Food & Drink

Frozen cocktails were served upon arrival and Pedialyte shots were available all night.

Bar Snacks included Maple Candied Bacon, Truffle Chips, Tajin-Citrus Pistachios.

Passed Canapés included Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, Adobo Chicken Arepas, Buffalo Cauliflower, Birria Mushroom Tacos, Jumbo Shrimp, Watermelon Skewers.

Live oyster shucking featured New Jersey & Prince Edward Island oysters.

A steakhouse dinner station included Shaved Prime Rib, Roasted Halibut, Spaghetti Squash, Iceberg Wedge Salad, and more.

Dessert and late-night bites included Icebox Cake Shooters, Matcha Panna Cotta, Hot Chocolate Chip Cookies, Espresso Martini Syringes.

Guests had access to Dear Maud’s 20+ cocktails—a unique feature made possible by their draft cocktail system. The wedding was followed by a late night party on the Metropolis rooftop.

Fun Surprise

Without telling the groom or guests, the bride cut and donated her hair the morning of the reception.

Favorite Moment

The bride adored her first dance with her groom. “My husband absolutely killed it!” she says.

Advice For Other Couples

“Stay true to yourself and have a wedding that is true to you, not just what others expect for your wedding to be,” says Joy.

Honeymoon

They are hoping to head to Japan next year.

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