1. Real Weddings

Kelly & Dan: A Formal Wedding in Trenton, NJ

Despite the summer heat, Kelly and Dan pulled off an elegant ballroom wedding with classic details and a pink color palette. The Bride Kelly Monagha

Despite the summer heat, Kelly and Dan pulled off an elegant ballroom wedding with classic details and a pink color palette. The Bride Kelly Monaghan, 28, middle school computer teacher The Groom Dan Riely, 27, middle school math teacher The Date June 25 Although Kelly and Dan dated on and off throughout college (they’d been introduced Kelly’s freshman year by her roommate), the true test of their relationship came when Dan completed basic training and was stationed in Alaska for more than two years. “It was at that point, we knew we were either going to stay together or go our separate ways,” Kelly says. The pair chose to stay together, and their love grew even while they remained miles apart. “We saw each other every six months,” Kelly says, “and learned to treasure every moment together!” After Dan proposed while on leave during Christmas, the pair began planning a classic wedding with contemporary touches.

Each table was topped with a different kind of centerpiece, varying high and low. “My favorite flowers were the fluorescent gerbera daisies,” Kelly says.
The Cake
The maids carried bouquets of pink and white roses. “The first bridesmaid to walk down the aisle had the darkest colored roses,” Kelly says, “and the bouquets got progressively lighter.”
As guests left the reception, they were treated to a “Sweet Dreams” table. Guests could fill tiny satin bags with pink and white candies displayed in glass containers.
The Accessories
The Escort Cards
Kelly wore a white satin ball gown with a pleated front, three-tiered bustle, and delicate crystal beading around the bust by Amsale. Kelly’s nine bridesmaids wore A-line, deep pink, full-length spaghetti-strap gowns by Jim Hjelm. Each dress featured a gray sash adorned with a pink flower at the back.
The Hair
The Centerpieces
The Bridal Bouquet
Pinpoint lighting helped create a romantic ambience for the reception in the Marriott’s ballroom.
The table decor -- which included crystals, mirrors, and candles -- added to the elegant atmosphere of the setting.