Amanda & Michael held their winter wonderland wedding on a chilly December day at The Park Château. Amanda is originally from Michigan, so she was not phased at all by the December Jersey weather, it’s what she calls a “cool fall day in Michigan.” These two actually got officially married a week before this ceremony took place, back in their home of Illinois. Since many of the ceremony formalities were done, the vibe of the day was much more relaxed. As a native New Jerseyan, Michael also wanted to be sure his family and friends could all take part in the festivities as well, so the Park Château was the perfect place to party and celebrate.
Given that their first date was on a trail in the woods, it was appropriate that their wedding day incorporated many natural elements. They joke that in hindsight, after first meeting online, meeting in person on a trail for a hike may not have been the smartest first date idea, but hey, it all worked out!
Here’s some favorites from their [second] big day at the Park Château!
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Amanda’s details really pulled in the theme of the day of a winter scape. I was so impressed with her attention to detail and wish I could take credit for this beautiful vignette for the rings.
Having a little bit of warmth from that shawl was key to our outdoor portraits.
Amanda and her mom sharing a special moment together before the ceremony.
When we planned out the timeline, Amanda and I made sure to sneak in our time for portrait just before the early winter sunset.
Pro tip for all winter brides… get yourself a cute furry wrap so you can survive those outside portraits. Trust me, it will be worth it! Also, give it a nickname. Amanda named hers “Fluffy.”
Having a smaller, tight knit bridal party, helps keep the day simple.
Park Chateau was perfectly set up for a winter wedding with all the Christmas lights and decorations.
Their fur babies of course had to make an appearance for their (second) big day.
Another unique moment of the day – the bride and groom walked into the ceremony together! Because they were already officially married, they thought it would be a nice moment to be able to walk in as one.
They tied in Filipino wedding traditions into the day, which made their day that much more special. Beyond the bridesmaids and groomsmen, Filipino weddings also include guests with the title of Sponsor. The veil ceremony is meant to bond the couple and recognize them as one.
An infinity shaped cord represents the couple’s bond and union, placed on top of the veil while the couple receives their blessing.
Amanda did an awesome job at pulling in that warm and cozy winter feeling with all the decorations.
It may have been cold outside, but it didn’t take long for the dance floor to heat up!
Some super talented family members provided extra entertainment through the night!
Amanda’s mom and dad won the anniversary dance – married for 50 (and 1/2) years!
Backstreet Boys came on, so obviously you have to drop what you’re doing and jam out to that.
It was great that they incorporated their family’s talents into their wedding, they can always remember the little things that made their wedding unique. Also, pretty sure this girl will be famous one day. Holy cow can she sing!!!
Vendors
Venue // Park Château
Jeweler // Fire & Brillance
Dress Store // David’s Bridal
Groomswear // J. Crew
DJ // Eclipse Events
Ceremony Officiant // Father John Michael Patilla
Hair Stylist & Make-Up // Michelle Elise Artistry
Florist // A Touch of Elegance
Videography // Folded Crane Films
Bakery // Palermo Bakery
Invitations // Minted.com
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