Katie & Chris | Birchwood Manor | Whippany, NJ

“Elegant & Classic”

Chris and I met in college in August 2014, although our first date wasn’t until we took a bike ride together through Arlington, VA, four years later. Our relationship was full of traveling, hiking, discussions about faith, and trying new recipes out on family and friends. We seemed to bring out the best in each other while also appreciating heavy doses of sarcasm and not taking ourselves too seriously.

As our relationship progressed, Chris was also growing in his love and appreciation for the Catholic faith. His journey helped bring us closer to God and to each other, fostering an even greater appreciation for marriage and having a family of our own.

A few weeks before proposing, Chris flew to Florida to get the engagement ring which his aunt had for safekeeping. This ring had been gifted to Chris’s grandmother from his grandfather on their 35th anniversary. On June 28, 2021 we went to dinner at an Italian restaurant and afterwards went for a walk.

We talked about our future, moving, and missing our families, especially our grandmothers, who had recently passed away. As he got down on one knee, Chris said, “I know you never got to meet my grandma, but I know she would have loved you, and that’s why she would have loved for you to have this.” Giving me the ring, a family heirloom, meant everything to me.

We were married in Our Lady of Sorrows, an exceptionally beautiful Catholic church in South Orange, NJ. The ceremony and mass were celebrated by our dear friend, Father John Coughlin, who we’ve had the privilege of knowing since he worked with Chris’s grandfather for several years.

We wanted a venue that focused on making guests feel welcomed, at-home, and cared for. We met Michael Marino III, the banquet manager at Birchwood Manor, and he understood we wanted a big, family-style Italian gathering. Our goal was to have an elegant and classic wedding and to work with someone who would help us personalize our day.

Whenever we made requests — like adding an antipasto bar to cocktail hour, offering a vegetarian option in addition to the included meat dishes, or having Italian pastries and an ice cream bar instead of a traditional wedding cake — Michael’s answer was always yes. Perhaps the kindest thing Michael did was offer an extended cocktail hour.

We didn’t take photographs before the wedding, since we wanted our “first look” to be at the altar. So guests enjoyed an additional 30 minutes of amazing cocktail hour food while we took formal photos. Favorites included Cantonese egg rolls, chicken quesadillas, Asian barbecued chicken satay, and mushroom caps stuffed with sweet Italian sausage. Chafing dishes also offered everything from penne alla vodka to beef tips teriyaki and sesame chicken.

The Jefferson Ballroom is stunning. The chandeliers, wall frescos, carpeting, and cushioned seats all create a warm and inviting feeling. The cocktail hour space and outdoor space are equally charming. The grounds are beautifully kept and provided for stunning photos on our perfect summer day. The huge, newly refinished dance floor sealed the deal.

Dinner was delicious! We had a unique strawberry spinach salad and tried each entrée. We had garlic herb-crusted prime ribs, French breast of chicken, grilled salmon with an orange ginger glaze, and eggplant parmigiana. Each dish was seasoned and cooked perfectly. The ice cream sundae bar was another personal touch and a hit with guests.

Birchwood also made a black and white marble sheet cake to accommodate guests who were looking for cake. Our MC Rob and DJ Jordan from Ultimate Entertainment had amazing energy. Every guest was up and dancing! Jordan took our song request list and put together the perfect mix of classic songs, family favorites, and modern hits. They made the evening one we would relive over and over if we could.

Our hearts are filled with sincere gratitude for all our vendors. Jorge gave us the most elegant wedding photos. Raquel altered my dress to perfection. Bella Bridesmaids and Mariel from Bridal Artistry made me and my girls feel absolutely beautiful. Conroy’s Florist and Prima Tuxedo did an outstanding job fulfilling our vision for a classic wedding look with beautiful florals and elegant tuxedos. BBZ limousines were prompt and staffed by courteous drivers. Everyone loved Sorrento’s pastries and our ice cream cake from Denville Dairy was delicious.

And of course, our biggest thanks goes to our parents, our wedding party, our family, and our friends for witnessing our vows, celebrating our marriage, and creating memories we will cherish forever.

Birchwood Manor, Whippany, NJ, 973.887.1414, birchwoodmanor.com