Greta & Grzegorz | Glen Island Harbour Club | New Rochelle, NY

"Expansive View"

Grzegorz and I met through our friends at a pool party about 12 years ago. Since day one we had an instant attraction. We were friends for years and had so much in common. We always knew one day we would be together. We went to the beach on our first date. I can still feel the wind combing my hair while we watched a beautiful sunset. We felt time had stopped just for us and never wanted to be apart, and when we were, we’d call each other all the time and spend hours on the phone. When he wasn’t with me a part of me was missing. We knew we were soulmates and dated for about three years when Grzegorz proposed.

He planned a vacation for us to the Dominican Republic and booked a private villa with a gorgeous ocean view. I knew something was up because he was so nervous and stressed, but all the effort he put into planning our proposal was so sweet. He made a reservation for a private dinner on the beach and I felt we were the only people in the world when he proposed. I could see in his eyes such love, caring, and promise for the future, and I knew I was the only one for him. The only sound was from the waves on the shore as I said, “Yes!”  I knew he was the one.

At first, we couldn’t decide where, or when, to have our wedding. A friend suggested we look at Glen Island Harbour Club, and after looking online we had a good feeling it would be perfect for us. When we arrived for our tour, we knew we were right. Driving up to the great building with its huge pillars and front bay windows, you see the waterfront views, the stone accents on the grounds, and imagine all the beautiful, diverse backdrops for your wedding photos. We fell in love with the place. Working with everyone at Glen Island was so easy. Rodney Gonzalez, the banquet manager, made everything stress-free. He gave us a fun planning experience, helped us think of every aspect, and helped us select awesome food.

After getting ready in luxury at a nearby hotel, our day began at Glen Island Harbour Club with our ceremony. The space we chose lent a perfect backdrop of floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the expansive view. Our ceremony was very romantic. Our officiant’s wife sang and played the piano, delicate flowers scented the room, and beautiful crystal stands complemented the beauty of the room. Cocktail hour impressed our guests with a sophisticated atmosphere. Tables near the windows allowed them to see the beautiful sunset off the water. We chose phenomenal stations featuring Caribbean food, seafood, made-to-order pasta, and Spanish food. Our favorite was definitely the seafood! We decorated the ballroom in white and blush pastel colors, which added extra elegance. The tables had big centerpieces on crystal stands, filled with orchids and surrounded by candles. All my childhood wedding dreams had come true.

Dinner was delicious. After a Mediterranean sampler as an appetizer, our guests chose steakhouse grilled filet mignon, bistro-roasted free range chicken, or sesame-crusted filet of salmon. Glen Island made our wedding cake look exactly as we wanted and it was an exquisite dessert.  Our Viennese table was spectacular, with a huge selection of different cakes and other sweets, a chocolate fountain, and creme brûlée. Grzegorz filled up his little plate at least six times! Our DJ provided excellent music and made sure we had the best time of our lives. He effortlessly mixed  American and Polish music to cater to my Polish family and everyone was able to enjoy dancing, eating, and drinking vodka!

We’d like to thank our parents, family, friends, and guests for being part of our special day. Thank you to the Glen Island Harbour Club staff, and especially to Rodney, for his support and patience. Thank you to our photographer for our amazing photos of the greatest wedding day we could have imagined!

Glen Island Harbour Club, New Rochelle, NY
914.636.6500, www.gi-hc.com