“Old World Romance”
Nick is actually the younger brother of my older sister’s husband. So I married my sister’s brother-in-law! We have been in each other’s lives for many years and have always been close friends. As the years passed, we became closer and began hanging out more and more, so we never had an official first date. We accidentally had our first kiss at The Brownstone at my sister Dana’s wedding. We blamed it on the dancing, the champagne, and the ambiance. Nevertheless, that was just the beginning and we have been in love and laughing together ever since.
Two years later, Nick proposed on my favorite holiday, Halloween, working together with my sisters for the surprise. They put together a family Halloween party for the kids and I couldn’t wait to celebrate with all my nieces and nephews. We would be running around and playing with the kids so we decided on Napoleon Dynamite and Deb for costumes. At the end of the night, Nick and I were announced as the winners of the costume contest. He took my hand and pulled me to the center of our family. As the music shifted from “The Monster Mash” to “To The Ends of The Earth,” by Lord Huron, the world slowed down and I began to understand what was about to happen.
Picking our venue was never a question for us. My sister, Marissa, was married at The Brownstone and we were blown away by the food, the look, the attention to detail, and the outstanding service. My other sister, Dana, found herself back at The Brownstone for her perfect wedding. There was no need for us to search, as our past experiences with The Brownstone had been nothing short of perfection.
We were as excited to see Albert Manzo, the owner, again as he was to see us. The Brownstone truly treats you like family. We explained how we wanted a romantic Old World feel and Albert was just as enthused as we were. Every idea I shared was amplified even further with his creative touch. I knew our photographer would be in heaven with the beautiful photo opportunities, including the courtyards, the ivy, the ornate bar, the greenhouse room, and more. I was put in contact with Rose, my bridal attendant, long before the wedding day and she was an absolute dream to work with. Every member of the staff showed enthusiasm and took pleasure in executing all aspects of our event.
We had our ceremony while surrounded by friends and family. After taking photos, we went to the bridal suite where we were greeted by Rose and Gary, the bridal attendant and maître d’, both so professional and welcoming. A display of cocktail hour hors d’oeuvres was brought up to us along with an endless supply of their famous beefsteaks, a special request after the mouth-watering experience from my sisters’ weddings. We joined the cocktail hour in the Grand Conservatory and saw the elaborate Brownstone presentation and the elegant, dreamy atmosphere set by the gorgeous glass room. The fresh mozzarella and lobster station were crowd favorites, providing delicious food and entertainment.
For our reception, The Brownstone’s ornate ballroom was perfect for the vintage, rustic, regal aesthetic we wanted. The gorgeous room, along with breathtaking centerpieces, successfully mixed Old World charm and elegance. A sense of grandeur emanated from the glistening chandeliers.
Our guests are still raving today about the food at The Brownstone. Our menu was extensive, starting with a choice of salad followed by a pasta choice of fresh rigatoni tomato basil or a delicious bucatini spicy crab. The entrées were filet mignon and beef short rib duet, chicken scarpariello, pan-seared Chilean sea bass, or veal osso bucco. The presentation was pristine and the chefs made their way around the room to ensure everything was perfect. They take great pride in what they serve and it genuinely shows.
One of each meal choice was set at our sweetheart table. I think the Chilean sea bass was the best meal I’ve ever had and Nick still dreams of the short rib entrée. After dinner was served, it was right back to dancing and Dash of Class makes this an absolute priority. With our 250 guests, young and old, they made sure there was something for everyone. All our guests were having the time of their lives as The Brownstone worked like a well-oiled machine.
We’re so thankful for the artistic minds that came together so seamlessly, leaving us with a perfect wedding and a lifetime of beautiful memories. Every vendor we worked with exceeded our expectations. Our photographer and videographer each captured the romance and authenticity of the love we share. And, of course, a special thank you to Albert and The Brownstone staff for going above and beyond every step of the way. We are forever grateful!
The Brownstone, Paterson, NJ, 973.595.8582, thebrownstone.com
“Picking our venue was never a question for us. My sister, Marissa, was married at The Brownstone and we were blown away by the food, the look, the attention to detail, and the outstanding service. My other sister, Dana, found herself back at The Brownstone for her perfect wedding. There was no need for us to search, as our past experiences with The Brownstone had been nothing short of perfection.
