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E-Brides Newsletter Issue #29 |
Greetings!
Wedding season may seem like a way off but when you're busy planning and scheduling your perfect day, time goes by quickly. Take a few moments to relax with us and read the Real Wedding Story of Ainsley Sullivan and John Jay Perry at Belle Mer from our May/June 2010 issue. Then read our special feature for some wedding menu inspiration. -NWM |
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Ainsley Sullivan & John Jay Perry
Belle Mer |
After 12 years of dating, Ainsley Sullivan and John Jay Perry clearly were doing something right. In fact, these Middletown natives' romance began as a childhood friendship, and grew in high school. "We always knew we would get married," Ainsley says, "it was just a matter of when."
On New Year's Day 2008, John Jay decided the time was right, as the striking couple, who live in New York City, took a morning walk in Central Park. Seated on a bench, "We chatted for a few minutes and I remember leaning back to look at something behind me," Ainsley recalls. "When I turned around all I remember is John Jay staring into my eyes. I looked down and he was holding an open box with a ring! What followed were the sweetest words, and both of us hugged for what seemed like forever."
 Such a long-awaited wedding not only would mark a new chapter in their life together, but also promised to be a bash to remember. Returning to Newport, Ainsley, daughter of Daniel and Kathleen Sullivan of Middletown, and John Jay chose Belle Mer as the venue for its spectacular waterfront view and simple and chic layout. The space accommodated their 265 guests, including a wedding party of 11 bridesmaids and 10 groomsmen.
A cross between New York City glamour and Newport's simple elegance attributed to the overall ambiance of the evening, with a white theme and modern décor. Asian food served in Chinese "to-go" containers, and late-night snacks of mini-grilled cheese sandwiches added to a fun and laid-back menu. Perhaps Ainsley's hot pink heels paired with her ivory Melissa Sweet dress best captured the essence of the anything-goes evening.
The night concluded with a surprise when John Jay's mother, Carol Perry of Middletown, announced, "From New York City, give it up for the Beatnuts!" Suddenly, the reception turned into a full-blown concert; truly a fitting send-off for this longtime couple. Basking in the afterglow of their fabulous bash, the newlyweds jetsetted to Punta Cana for their honeymoon.-CM
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- Rings: Platinum House, Newport
- Rehearsal Dinner: Gooseberry Beach, catered by Becky's BBQ, Middletown
- Hair: Jenny Gonzalez and Jenna Perry, Newport
- Make-up: Jenny Kay Murphy, Newport
- Nails: Wavelengths Salon and Spa, Newport
- Caterer: Belle Mer, Newport
- Reception Entertainment: Felix Brown Band, Boston, MA
- Photography: Zev Fisher, Boston, MA
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The Menu: What's for Dinner? |
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What else is there?
First you decided on a date. Then you picked out a color palette, chose your wedding party members, and started counting up guests. Pretty soon you're shopping around for the perfect dress and before you know it you're even thinking about how you want your hair and makeup to look. All of these are important decisions, critical to how your wedding day plays out and how you celebrate your first moments as a married woman. But one big question still looms in the air...
What's for dinner?
What could essentially be thought of as your first dinner party, the reception needs some menu planning. Sure, you could go traditional. There are always the options of a chicken dish, a beef selection, a vegetarian plate, and maybe even a fish choice. Each entree is bound to be delicious, but what about the nontraditional options?
More and more couples are opting to forego the traditional wedding menu and serve a selection of their own favorite foods. Take the menu of the Perry's wedding for example. This couple from our very own Newport Real Wedding Story featured Asian cuisine in Chinese to-go containers and mini-grilled cheese sandwiches as part of their menu. The menu helped create a laid-back vibe and an energy that guests were more than happy to absorb.
What are some options?
The choices are endless. What you want to do is choose a caterer who will fit your needs and provide the flavors, textures, and food selections you want. You can opt for finger foods or actual dishes. You can pick from ethnic cuisine or your favorite childhood meal. Some brides are having sushi while their grooms are enjoying barbeque ribs. Others are even having breakfast for dinner, so get creative and have a menu all your own for your wedding.
Who says you can't have a late-night grilled cheese on your wedding? --NM |
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