Mallard Island Yacht Club Wedding :: New Jersey Wedding Photographer

Mallard Island Yacht Club Wedding Vendors:
New Jersey Wedding Photographer: Susan Elizabeth Photography
Venue: Mallard Island Yacht Club
Videographer: Delia Studios
Entertainment: Sound Society Band 
Florist: Reynolds Garden Shop
Hair: Sweet Hair Peace 
Makeup: Beach House Spa 
Wedding Gown: The White Gown Desiner: Pronovias
Bridesmaids Gowns: Birdy Grey
Bridal Shoes: Vince Camuto
Men’s Attire: Zohreh
Invitations: Minted
Bakery: Carlos Bakery

Photographed by : Susan Elizabeth and Cassie
#gonnabeagarcia

How did you meet? 
We were both students at Syracuse University and were involved in our school’s a cappella community. He was in the all-male group, and I was in a co-ed one. We met our freshman year at an a cappella competition in New Jersey — I was still so new to the community and wanted to meet more people, so I made a point to introduce myself after the show! We became friends and started spending a lot of time together. We started dating at the start of the next school year! 

The Proposal! 
Long Beach Island is very, very important to me. It’s where I spent all of my summers growing up, and it has always felt like home. Bryce and I have a lot of great memories there—at home with my family, staying on the beach long past the lifeguards have gone, playing music together, trying new food at the amazing restaurants, etc. Another favorite tradition of mine is the “sunset party” that happens each night on my street. Everyone comes out of their homes with a cocktail in hand to watch the sunset together – we have arguably the best view on the island. In September, Bryce and I spent the weekend in LBI with my parents. It was really cold and very windy, so we spent most of our time inside. One night, right before dinner, I got out of the shower and rushed outside to see the sunset. I didn’t want to miss it! My dad told me that Bryce was watching from the roof, and I’d have the best view there. I instantly ran upstairs (with my hair still wet!). The second I opened the door to go upstairs, I knew something was happening. On each step that led to the roof, Bryce had placed a picture of us from our years together. When I got to the top, I found Bryce standing in the middle of our deck, surrounded by photos of the two of us that he had hung on the railings. I’ll never forget it – they were blowing around like crazy in the wind! I was so confused and in shock and don’t remember anything he said, but I remember it was one of the best moments ever. When I said yes, my parents (and our pup!) ran upstairs to celebrate with us. We watched the sunset together – it was the best sunset party ever. 

Why did you pick your venue? 
See above re: LBI! I’ve always wanted to get married in LBI and hoped I’d be able to. My sister and I were engaged within a few months of each other, and she had already reserved a date at Bonnet Island. The only other venue on the island that would fit our family was Mallard Island. We were engaged in September, and we weren’t going to be back until LBI until the following summer… so we toured the venue the very next day! It was crazy and we weren’t expecting to love it as much as we did, but it was perfect. We knew right away it was for us.

Tell us about all the details of the wedding! 
Our day was centered around three things we love: family, friends & fun! We wanted to make sure everyone had a good time and wanted it to be special. We tried to involve our family and friends in as much of the day as possible. My two sisters were maids of honor, and his two brothers were the best men. We focused on really great music—we had a phenomenal band—and scheduled everything so there was room for plenty of dancing! After the wedding, we had an after party and served our favorite foods from LBI (Chegg wings, obviously). We were out by the fire until 3 in the morning. It was the best day ever! 

Where did you go on your honeymoon? 
We went to Italy! We spent three days in Venice, five in Florence (with day trips to Siena, Tuscany, and Cinque Terre) and four days in Positano (with trips to Naples and Capri). It was November, so a lot of things were closed in Positano. Still, it was quiet and beautiful. We love food and wine, so Italy was perfect for us! 

Favorite moment of the day? 
My parents surprised Bryce and I with a visit from our school’s mascot, Otto. They didn’t tell anyone, so it was a complete surprise to all! I don’t think I’ve ever been more shocked or excited in my life. It was the perfect addition to our day! Another favorite moment: at the very last minute, just a few days before the wedding, Bryce and I decided to ask our band if we could sing a song during the reception. We weren’t planning on it but we thought it would be a fun idea. It ended up being a really special moment for both of us, and something we’ll never forget. 

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