A Romantic Winter Wedding at Union League Cafe in New Haven, Connecticut

Susan West (30 and a program coordinator of major gifts at Yale University) and Solomon Silber’s (32 and a musician and producer) winter wedding in New Haven, Connecticut, was the picture of old-world glamour, with a dramatic palette of burgundy, cranberry and soft pink, a lively brass band and plenty of romantic candlelight. “Everything was quite timeless and classic, but in the details, there was a distinct flair that made the overall style unique to our sensibilities,” Susan says. The stationery set the tone for the unfussy-yet-formal fete, with ivory card stock embellished with elegant script and delicately torn edges introducing guests to the glamorous soiree to come. “I am obsessed with fine stationery, and I'm a firm believer that you don’t skimp on this aspect of the wedding. It sets the tone for the entire event,” Susan says. The couple kicked off the festivities in Yale University’s Dwight Hall Chapel, where they exchanged vows in an interfaith ceremony. Susan and Solomon put their own personal twist on the proceedings by incorporating Jewish traditions, such as the breaking of the glass, and a moment of silence that served as a nod to Susan’s Quaker school days. Music was a top priority for the pair, who included New Haven Brass Band in the proceedings to give the ceremony extra panache. After the “I dos,” Susan and Solomon joined their guests at Union League Cafe for the cocktail hour and reception. Cocktail hour took place on the second floor, where guests indulged in passed hors d’oeuvres and an oyster bar and a live quartet filled the air with jazzy tunes. “We are foodies, so it was all about the food, which was incredible,” Susan says. Sweet Tooth and the Sugarbabies kicked off the postdinner celebrations with a bang, packing the dance floor with their swinging set list. But the highlight of the night was a surprise performance by Solomon, who joined the band onstage for renditions of Jimi Hendrix’s “Foxey Lady” and “Little Wing.” “If anyone was not on the dance floor, Solomon got them out there. The band knew Solomon was going to perform with them, so they had rehearsed the Hendrix songs, but I had no idea!” Susan says. “We are so grateful to the Sugarbabies—they made the party happen.” Some tips from Susan and Solomon: “Keep your vendors local. It’s good practice and makes the logistics of the planning process easier, and they often know one another well, which means they are used to working together. Also, hire a day-of coordinator, so you can relax and enjoy the big day from start to finish.” —Libby MacCarthy