1. Real Weddings

Liz & Craig: A Summer Wedding in Pompey, NY

Liz O’Hara was a college student, waiting tables on the side, when she met Craig Formoza. He had wandered into her restaurant for a bite to eat with a

Liz O’Hara was a college student, waiting tables on the side, when she met Craig Formoza. He had wandered into her restaurant for a bite to eat with a friend—who, coincidentally, was the boyfriend (and now husband) of Liz’s good friend and co-worker. Ever since this chance restaurant meeting the couple has been inseparable. When it came time to get engaged, the couple’s roles were reversed: Craig proposed to Liz on her 28th birthday while waiting on her -- with breakfast in bed, that is. The Bride Liz O’Hara, 30, commercial real estate leasing agent The Groom Craig Formoza, 31, quality manager The Date July 23 The couple had only one real goal when it came to planning their wedding festivities: “We wanted to keep it as fun as possible,” Liz says. They did this by picking a bright, tropical theme, in keeping with their mutual love for the Caribbean. Playful, beachy twists abounded, including an island-influenced cocktail/pool area; loads of vibrantly colored flip-flops readily available to relieve guests’ tired feet; and tasty tropical themed drinks and appetizers.

More than 300 guests celebrated during a fun-filled reception held at the bride’s childhood home. Several tents were set up on the expansive property, each housing a different element of the festivities – cocktails and dessert were held in one tent, while children were entertained in another and dinner and dancing had its own tent.
The Reception Decor
Given the laid-back style of the wedding, a traditional cake seemed excessively formal. Instead, the couple opted for a cupcake tree. The tasty treats were smothered in creamy white frosting and decorated with white chocolate daisies and colorful confetti.
Liz walked down the aisle carrying a simple hot pink bouquet of calla lilies -- a stunning contrast against her white Watters & Watters strapless, silk-shantung bustle gown, which fastened up the back with elegant silk covered buttons.
In what was truly a family affair, Liz and Craig wed in an intimate rustic Catholic church, located just a few miles from the reception site. The bride chose to be given away by both her mother and father—a sweet tribute and testament to their mutual significance in her life. The bride’s second cousin officiated with the help of the bride’s aunt, and Liz’s sister sang “Amazing Grace” during the offertory.
The Couple
The Escort Cards
Opting away from traditional bridesmaids gowns, Liz put her girls in sweet, rewearable dresses from Anthropologie. The raspberry hued, spaghetti strap, multitiered sundresses were the perfect compliment to the relaxed, tropical theme. All five bridesmaids accented their dresses with turquoise jewelry and stylish Nine West wedge sandals.