A Romantic Wedding at The Carriage House in Galloway, New Jersey

Shelby Markowitz (29 and a retail buyer) and Lee Markowitz (35 and works in financial services) exchanged vows in a romantic Jewish wedding in New Jersey. The couple first met in the summer of 2010 when they locked eyes on a train to Fire Island, where they happened to be staying in the same share house. They ended up reconnecting a year later on JDate and eventually had their first date in October 2011. The couple chose The Carriage House in Galloway, New Jersey, as the venue for their special day. “I originally wanted an outdoor wedding on a grand landscape, on a farm, or in a wooded area,” says the bride. “That idea could not come to fruition. Oh well! Instead I went for a romantic, feminine, candle-lit ballroom wedding.” Shades of pinks and white proved to be the perfect color combination for the celebration where lanterns, candles and floral arrangements served as the main decorations. Following the ceremony, their 200 guests joined the couple at the cocktail hour where everyone was treated to the sounds of a bluegrass band. A DJ took over the music at the reception. When it comes to planning their own wedding, Shelby tells other brides to listen to their husband’s opinions and to not be afraid to negotiate with vendors. “Pick a few must haves for your wedding day and be flexible with everything else,” she says.