A Fresh, Nautical Wedding at Bay Head Yacht Club in Bay Head, New Jersey

Inspired by shabby-chic décor, Cara Delli Paoli (28 and a marketing analyst) and Nikolas (Nik) Kappy (31 and a surgical resident) threw a romantic event that allowed the beauty of the ocean to shine. “I was constantly thinking, ‘What would Ina Garten do?’” Cara says of her planning process. They outfitted their wedding in deep blue, sage, cranberry and cream. Nik’s five groomsmen all wore blue suits, while Cara’s six bridesmaids wore sage dresses. Cara’s dress actually included two looks. After the cocktail hour, she removed the tulle skirt to reveal the satin trumpet gown underneath. “I was between styles when originally deciding, so this was the best of both worlds,“ she says. Cara wanted her bouquet to be effortless and romantic. It was a loose mix of ivory and blush roses with pops of cranberry blooms.
For the ceremony, a vintage boat was draped in flowers and greenery and parked behind their ceremony podium. After saying “I do,” Cara and Nik stepped onto the boat and coasted out the open bay doors as their guests blew bubbles. They took a quick ride around the bay to celebrate their newlywed status, toasting with champagne and snacking on hors d’oeuvres. Cara’s family designed the place cards, menus and the sea glass wine charms, which guests took home. The couple’s cake included carrot cake (their favorite) and chocolate mousse with strawberries. “Remember: This is your wedding, and you’ll be happiest if it’s what you want as a couple,” Cara says of throwing the perfect bash.