1. Real Weddings

Liz & Andy: Modern, Blue Wedding in Long Branch, NJ

Liz decided to trust her friends and go on a blind date with their pal Andy. Much to her relief, she and Andy had an immediate connection and never ra

Liz decided to trust her friends and go on a blind date with their pal Andy. Much to her relief, she and Andy had an immediate connection and never ran out of things to talk about. The Bride Liz Schlam, 40, marketing The Groom Andy Kamiel, 42, equity trader The Date September 21 Four years later, they still couldn't stop talking after meeting for drinks in New York City after work. As they snuggled up in a cozy bar, snow started to fall, and Andy told Liz she was his best friend. They got so deep into a conversation about how much they loved each other that they waved the hostess off eight times. The next thing Liz knew, Andy was pulling a ring box from his briefcase. They spent dinner planning the wedding.

A row of candles lit up longer tables while tall vases filled with blue-dyed water and floating tea lights added drama at a bargain price.
To symbolize the beginning of their new family, Liz's eight-year-old son, Ben, walked her down the aisle. And Andy's nine-year-old son, Casey, was the best man.
Liz wanted a dress that still felt bridal but wasn't too traditional, since this was her second marriage. The silk-satin Nicole Miller dress with a bubble hem immediately jumped out at her. To keep with the casual look, Liz wore her hair down without a veil.
Instead of a seated dinner, guests enjoyed hors d'oeuvres, passed petite entrées and a raw bar. We wanted guests to be able to taste everything and sit whenever they chose, explains Liz.
A huppah made with sheer organza and marked with dramatic arrangements of phalaenopsis orchids and calla lilies created a focal point for the ceremony, which took place on a rooftop.
We put something fun and different on each table, says Liz, including short vases with candles and orchids submerged in turquoise water. Rows of flickering turquoise votives completed the look.
The couple wanted a comfortable, lounge vibe for their reception. Couches, ottomans and fun martini glass centerpieces set the mood.
Sea glass created a border on the custom-made aisle runner. Votives marked the end of each row in place of flowers.
The Reception
Custom blue-and-white coasters were the perfect addition to the cocktail-party feel of the reception.
Each guest received a glass of champagne decorated with a paper disc that read Liz and Andy as they entered the cocktail hour.
A modern venue was key to pulling off Liz and Andy's club-inspired ambience. The simple décor, sleek bar and lounge space at Avenue, a restaurant right on the boardwalk, fit the bill.
The Traditions
Cylinder vases with hanging strands of sea glass and full orchid arrangements decorated one of several eating areas.
A simple scroll design decorated the white and chocolate-chip cake with fondant frosting.