Sydnie and Matt met while Matt was a scuba instructor in the Cayman Islands, and the couple wanted their wedding to incorporate the sea in every way possible.  Saturday’s ceremony at the Hudson Farm Club in Stanhope, NJ incorporated a rich palate of blues from the bridemaids’ dresses (hand-tailored by Constance McCardle) to the brilliant blue accents among the florals (Jardinere, Bedminster).  The ceremony took place under an arbored cascade of roses on the front lawn of the club – a beautiful view of the surrounding hills in the background.  Guests were escorted to their seats down a white-carpeted aisle, while others mingled on the lawn and the front porch of the club, the gentle sounds of a string quartet playing in the background.  As with so many this year, the ceremony had been delayed by COVID.  A more intimate group of close family and friends than originally imagined gathered closely around the couple, hearing a beautiful exchange of heart-felt vows and laughing as the newlyweds marched back up the aisle to the string quartet playing the theme to Jurassic Park!  This is the right place to mention that both Sydnie and Matt are huge animal lovers, who have started their own shelter outside Tampa (the dog cake toppers were awesome!).

The reception was held in Hudson Farm’s new event hall.  True to Hudson Farm’s tradition as one of America’s finest sporting clubs, the venue retains a close connection with the outdoors.  Glass folding doors lead to a large terrace with a view of the bass pond.  Century-old pine stands tower nearby.  The band (Starlight Music) played beautifully and sensitively, carefully mixing dance numbers with more quiet pieces to aid conversation during dinner.  As with the rehearsal dinner the night before, ever detail was beautifully planned.  The floral centerpieces were interspersed with sea fans, beautiful reminders of the couple’s love for scuba and the azure water of the Caymans.

The night ended with a rare surprise, as guests gathered along the outdoor terrace for a 20-minute firework display over the nearby pond (and so outstanding photo opportunities!).