Caitlin & James | The Ryland Inn | Whitehouse Station, NJ

A Cocktail-Style Reception at The Ryland Inn

I’m a special education teacher and James works in sales. We met on a blind date at a bar and lounge in Bryant Park in December 2009, arranged by my cousin Joe, who is one of James’s best friends. We had instant chemistry. Our relationship felt very natural and we knew early on that we were a perfect match. I love how James makes me laugh, how caring he is, and how he inspires me and stands by my side through good times and difficult; James was by my side when I underwent a double mastectomy after being diagnosed with breast cancer in spring 2013. 

Our engagement came as a complete surprise! It was December 2012 and we were decorating our Christmas tree. James and I collect ornaments from everywhere we travel, and one was wrapped in tissue paper. I opened it and discovered a heart-shaped ornament with a proposal written on it. When I looked up, James was down on one knee with a ring. 

As soon as we saw The Ryland Inn, we knew we would get married there. The ballroom wasn’t even built yet, but just by the ambiance of the restaurant and the grounds we knew the ballroom would be beautiful. After sampling their delicious food, our decision was easy. Working with Danielle Gomez, event coordinator, was a pleasure. She made our every desire a reality, such as our request for a cocktail-style reception in lieu of a sit down dinner. On the afternoon of our wedding day we had to move the ceremony indoors due to weather. As a bride who dreamed of being married outside, I was a bit disappointed, but The Ryland Inn created such a beautiful, warm space in front of their fireplace that I preferred it! 

Our wedding day was perfect. The ceremony was my favorite part of the day because we personalized it, including writing our own vows. Our Boston terrier Rocky was our ring bearer, and our family and friends read poems such as E.E. Cummings, “I carry your heart.” People cheered loudly and when we finally had a moment to ourselves, James said, “That was the most fun I ever had. Let’s do it again!” Our cocktail hour was lovely. Bourbon is James’s favorite drink, so we had a Bourbon Bar with mint juleps, old fashioneds, and Manhattans, next to a Southern food station The Ryland calls “Backyard Barbecue.” 

The ballroom was breathtaking. Our fabulous florist created centerpieces with large blooming branches and loving cups filled with green, orange, pink, and yellow flowers. After a salad of mixed lettuces, local strawberries, candied pecans, smoked bleu cheese, and strawberry vinaigrette, guests dined on delicious options at our cocktail-style reception, including two different kinds of risotto, a fish station, and carving station. After dinner, sliders were passed on the dance floor. We kicked off the reception with “Make You Feel My Love” and as a treat for our guests our slow song transitioned into a salsa. I love to salsa dance and taught James a few steps. Our reception was one big party with a crowded dance floor all night. 

James and I can’t begin to thank everyone who contributed to our wedding. Our parents, who made it possible, were great throughout the process. All our bridal party assisted whenever needed. The Ryland Inn, Danielle, and our vendors were so accommodating and worked so hard to help us achieve our vision. We are so grateful to everyone who made this day so perfect!

The Ryland Inn
115 Old Highway 28. Whitehouse Station, NJ 08889
866.683.3586
rylandinnnj.com