Cassie & Mike’s September wedding at The Estate at Florentine Gardens was a total dream! I know our brand screams alternative weddings (lol), but sometimes a good classic wedding just hits the ball out of the park for us. Cassie and Mike envisioned a formal affair, but it didn’t stop them from having fun!

The Vision

We knew we were going to have a great time photographing these two after their Sandy Hook engagement session. The vision for this wedding day was a “whimsical & romantic garden theme.” It may have been September, but it was still early enough to cling to Summer weather.  The color scheme included grays and greens, along with white florals and gold accents. The attire was considered formal, as the groom and all the groomsmen wore tuxes. The bride’s dress was by Carol Hannah, the bridesmaid dresses were Dessy Group from Bella Bridesmaids and the groom’s tux was from The Clothing Center.

The stunning and simplistic florals were by Arcadia Floral. The flowers really accentuated the classic feel of the day. The DJs were Jan and Kenny of JB Pro Live – a couple of our favorite DJs in the biz!

The couple requested that the first look would take place in the garden, under the wooden pergola that is wrapped in vines and flowers. The weather permitted, so we happily obliged! Other requested portrait locations included out in the garden, in front of flowers and greenery. The couple preferred that the majority of pictures be in front of nature and greenery vs. in front of the concrete gazebos (and we agreed, we always like to highlight more natural elements!)

The couple chose Florentine Gardens for it’s beautiful grounds and floral atmosphere and their wish was for that to be naturally showcased as their portrait backdrops. They also expressed preferring the feel of natural, loose and candid photos. 🙂

The ceremony was overall nondenominational, but at the end they did the breaking of the glass (since Mike is Jewish). Additionally, a special touch was having their friend Tyler officiate the ceremony for them. (And Tyler is who brought these two together!)

Tell us about yourselves!

“Mike and I are high school sweethearts. We met when I was in 8th grade (Mike in 9th grade) when he was over one of his best friend Tyler’s house, who, happens to be my across-the-street neighbor. We played soccer outside in the street and we were very competitive with one another. From there, we began dating. Some things we love to do together are working out, playing soccer, hanging at the beach & going to concerts. We just recently binged Mare of Easttown. Some of our favorite shows are Breaking Bad, The Sopranos, Peaky Blinders and Boardwalk Empire.”

OUR STORY

“As most people know, Cassie and Mike have an unorthodox story, yet one that proves true love will always find its way. They met 14 years ago through a mutual friend Tyler, who will now take on the privilege of marrying them. That first day they met, they played soccer in the street and both “admired” each other’s competitiveness. A couple nights later, Mike came home and told his mom that he had to date Cassie, he knew there was something there. After that, Cassie and Mike started dating and were inseparable. From basement parties, high school sporting events, Poconos trips and family vacations, their love was palpable.

After dating throughout high school, Cassie and Mike decided it was best to spend time apart. Although it was tough to do at the time, it proved to be the best decision they ever made. After being separated for about 8 years, their love brought them back together and it was like no time had passed at all.

On May 8th, 2021, Mike took Cassie to one of their favorite places, Asbury Park, and asked her to spend the rest of their lives together. Cassie was so nervous she replied with “Oh my god!”, to which Mike confirmed she meant ‘yes’. Now, they can’t stand being away from each other. They love taking trips together, playing and watching soccer, snowboarding, and eating delicious seafood.

They cannot wait to celebrate their wedding in September 2022 with their families and friends, before starting their lives together as Mr. & Mrs. Zinberg!”

 

VENDOR NOTES

Venue / Florentine Gardens
Florist / Arcadia Floral
DJ + Photobooth / JB Pro Live Jan + Kenny
Makeup Artist / Makeupbymonize – Samantha Monize
Hair Stylist / Manesbymia – Mia Puleo
Video / Nulty Films
Officiant / Tyler McDonough (friend)
Dress / Carol Hannah
Bridesmaid Dresses / Dessy Group from Bella Bridesmaids
Suit or Tuxedo / The Clothing Center