Jamiel & Mark | The Vanderbilt at South Beach | Staten Island, NY

"Idyllic Atmosphere"

Jamiel: Mark and I met through a dear friend, Margaret Addivinola. She arranged a date in Atlantic City for us almost seven years ago, and we’ve been inseparable ever since. About five years later, he proposed to me in Atlantic City where we first met. It was the red carpet event at Martorano’s Restaurant.

Mark: Choosing the Vanderbilt at South Beach was an easy decision for us with its great view, phenomenal service, and one-of-a-kind location. It boasts a perfect view of the Verrazano Narrows Bridge and a beautiful, peaceful waterfront, as well as the best wedding planner in New York City!

Jamiel: Margaret Addivinola, the director of catering, helped bring our vision to life. The Vanderbilt was great at allowing food specialties to reflect our familes’ favorites, helping us coordinate with all our vendors, and adding so many special touches. A unique layout for the table setting, creative flower design, and an exceptional flow of events created an environment everyone could enjoy while having the most fun possible.

Mark: We had a picturesque ceremony with the Verrazano as our backdrop. The sun was setting behind us and the salty breeze from the water created an idyllic atmosphere. Our guests were awed by the dream-like setting. The ceremony began in daylight and ended at the beginning of dusk. Our cocktail hour was something special! We had everything, including handmade sushi, hibachi, Italian food, Spanish food, and our family favorites, Alaskan king crab legs and a Puerto Rican station featuring delicious empanadas.

Jamiel: Our ballroom décor was enhanced by the unique layout, dividing the tables into five sections with a master centerpiece in the middle. Additionally, elaborate greenery and flowers hung from the chandeliers and my gown by Berta, Christian Louboutin heels, jewelry, hair accents and champagne flutes were all adorned with Swarovski crystals; the best in the industry.  A circular table sat our immediate family and was the focal point with our five-tier wedding cake on a stand in the middle. The burgundy and gold tablecloths accented the large centerpieces perfectly and in the background you could see the Verrazano Bridge and the ocean.

Mark: For dinner, we had a specially designed appetizer of moussaka potato, grilled eggplant, and spiced beef in a tomato puree sauce. Following was a charred watermelon salad accompanied by a spiked watermelon shooter. The entrées, a duet option of grilled filet and lobster tail with wild mushroom spinach risotto, were served at the perfect time, while slower, more romantic music played in the background. We also had a barista bar and a custom-created dessert trio.

Jamiel: When our guests weren’t eating, they were dancing! Our party felt unmatched, with the combination of Disco Unlimited and DJ Gary making the reception magical. Neither us, nor our guests, stopped dancing the entire night. The smiles on everyone’s faces were a testament to the love in the room.

Mark & Jamiel: Our wedding was a true, heartfelt celebration of happiness and love that we had the honor of sharing with our closest family and friends. It was the last special event that we had the chance to enjoy with Mark’s dad, who was very special in our lives. We’re so grateful to Margaret. She did not miss a beat when keeping us at ease and smiling. She truly is the best planner and kindest person there is. Felix, our maître d’, paid attention to all the details and made sure our night went off without a hitch. Monica, our bridal attendant, was there any moment we needed her. The entire staff was friendly, accommodating, and on top of their game!

The Vanderbilt at South Beach, Staten Island, NY
718.447.0800, www.vanderbiltsouthbeach.com