** UPDATED with PRO PICS by DUET/Jay ****9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!!!!

*** Duet Professional pics up on my fb ( I made the albums public)They are 1/4 of what they gave me, just amazing!!!!!!
https://www.facebook.com/deebeelish


See wedding pics on FB

SEE SOME PHOTOS IN COMMUNITY ALBUM TO0


Where do I even begin: From the minute I was engaged I knew I was going to want a very romantic and fun wedding. I did a lot of planning in advance and it payed off big time because from sunrise to sunset I really enjoyed every moment of my wedding.


We had our engagement party in my back yard.We had an ice cake made by Dortoni's, delicious. I also ordered swirl pops made with our names on them from oriental trading company and made a lollipop tree with materials from Michael's. Save the dates I made on Minted and was blown away by the customer service and quality. Everyone complimented me on my STD's.

Bachelorette Party:
Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas. I went with 10 great girlfriends and we had THE BEST time. Highly suggest the cosmo. We loved XS, Encore, la cave for dinner and marquee day club.


JayLim- A+++++ We decided on Duet Photography based on some great pics I had seen on this blog and others. We had engagement photos as part of our package. We were really excited to meet Jay and he met every single expectation. He made us feel comfortable in front of the camera and let us e creative with props and ideas we had. For the wedding day Jay was amazing. He really put my ladies at ease. He knew everyones name within minutes, and they all loved him so much 2 of them are already booking him for their 2013 weddings. We only have teasers for now, but I am sure they will all look great. Jay was one of our favorite vendors to work with.We do not have our final pics yet but here are some teasers. I love the ones he caught of the butterfly release.








Gray Star Photography- A+++
My cousin ,who is basically a sister to me, has been taking pictures of all of our family events for a while now. She took the MOST incredible pictures of my wedding. She is incredibly talented and I am so lucky to have had her document my wedding. I love pictures from my guest, but these are just amazing. Check out her FB page and see the album she made of my wedding. SHe also has an amazing etsy shop with custom ivites, cards and paper goods for weddings. Check them both out:
Gray Star Photography
Gray Star Designs






Flowers by Brian- A+ I have to say I love flowers and think they really are a huge part of a wedding. I had gone back and forth on whether I wanted all white, or pink and white. Joe was super helpful in accommodating all of our needs. We had a beautiful tree piece , bouquets , high pieces and low pieces. I had came to Joe with the idea for the low and he was honest that he doubted it would look good, but sure enough he put it together and they came out amazing. The day before I was a little concerned bc my bridal bouquet was nothing like what I had asked for. Within minutes it was fixed and we were all set to go. Joe also helped my mother with some flowers for my bridal shower and they were beautiful as well.




Good Old Gold- A+ My fiance had my ring custom made at GOG. My family has been going there for years. They helped us pic out wedding bands and even helped ship it to jersey to avoid the tax. I love GOG and I love my August vintage wedding band. He cuts them just for GOG!!!!


Gemellis Restaurant in Babylon: A+
This was a beautiful spot for a rehearsal dinner. The food was incredible. The wait staff was on spot, always refilling everyones glasses. The owner even came by a couple of times to make sure everyone was enjoying their night. I also ordered a grooms cake from my husbands' friends wife . SHe makes wonderful cakes. You can check out her page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Shellycakes-Custom-Cakes-and-Cupcakes/119243351470838?fref=ts . My cake is on there. It was a tree stump with golf balls around it. I also had her make me up Golf Ball cake pops which she tagged with a phrase I came up with ' Heres to Fore-ever'.




All Star Limo-A++++++ What can I say, Debbie promised us the best and we had it. We rented the champagne bus and vintage Packard. The champagne bus took my bridal party and I to take pictures and back to the reception hall. It came along with an amazing driver DON and a bartender Mike. We had no idea we would have a bartender as well. They were phenomenal , helping me with my dress, pouring everyone drinks, really really above and beyond anything I had seen before. I highly recommend booking with them if you are looking for a smooth enjoyable day.

Body Rock A- We spent a lot of time on a list of current songs we really enjoy, however our crowd needed a more diversified mix and Body Rock provided that. They uplight the room beautifully, and the percussion was on point. MY party went from 8 - 1 am and the dance floor was never empty. My only concern was that they dances and cake were left to the second half of the night, and some of our older crowd had already started to head home. Aside from that BR was great and surely kept our party rocking all night long.

Francesco's Bakery-A- As I am sure most WM girls are, I was worried that my cake would be a dud. I met with Sandy at Francescos bakery and he helped us design the cake of our dreams. It was an additional cost, but it was worth every penny. When I walked into the room my attendant said wait till you see this cake! I was blown away, so elegant and beautifully done.


Wedding Salon of Manhassett- A++++++- I loved everything about my experience here. I worked with Charmaine who was the most patient and sweet woman . I recommend her to anyone going dress shopping. I didn't feel very comfortable in most dresses and she really helped me find a dress that was very 'me' . I loved my Lazaro 3050. We also went to the Maria Elena showcase and they were kind enough to help me pick out all of my accessories. I purchased a Maria Elena belt, bracelate, earrings and hair comb. I loved them all. They even customized them to all match and have the same type of stones, with white white ribbon.


ETSY VENDORS:( photos of details to come)
A+ http://www.etsy.com/listing/93488393/vintage-modern-art-wedding-gift- I had one of these beautiful pieces made for my little sister for being my maid of honor. I had a picture of us as little girls put in it, along with the poem 'I carry your heart' by EE cummings. I gave it to her at our rehearsal dinner.
A+ http://www.etsy.com/shop/WeddingPrepGals?ref=seller_info- I had a silk robe made for my mom that said Mother of the bride.
A+ http://www.etsy.com/people/GarterLady- I purchased my 'something blue' garter, I am so in love with my garter.
A+ http://www.etsy.com/people/StephanieWalker11- I purchased Robes for all of my girls to get ready in the morning of. They were all Monogrammed for each girl.
A+ http://www.etsy.com/people/BijouxandCouture - I couldnt find a necklace I loved for my girls so I designed one and this vendor handmade them and sent them to me, along with matching earrings that a majority of the girls ended up wearing. everyone loved them.

A+ http://www.etsy.com/people/annemusingdesigns- Feather pomader for flower girl

A+ http://www.etsy.com/people/wreathartist - unity candle and memorial candle

A+ http://www.etsy.com/people/MisterandMrs- hankerchief for Dad



ETSY PAPER GOODS:
A+http://www.etsy.com/people/cmdeventdesign- for thank you and donation cards at each guest's seat
Drink sign and cigar signs.
A++++ http://www.etsy.com/people/DesignsByRobynLove- hand calligraphy seating cards and table #'s, one of my favs!!!



Westbury Manor AA+++++++++++= Naomi and SAndra were incredible. The moment we arrived they tended to our every need. They seemed so excited for us and our big day. I was sad to see them go. WM was great in helping to coordinate how we wanted the wedding to flow.Food was great and we had a perfect night for an outside cocktail hour. We had a signature drink which we wanted a toasted coconut rim on. They even toasted the coconut for us.Love love loved WM!!






Victoria Elizabeth Makeup (VEM)- A+
Victoria never dissapoints. She was at my house early ready to get my 8 bridesmaids, my mother and I ready for our big day. At this point my bridesmaids are familiar with Victoria because of other weddings. They were so relieved and excited to see her that morning. She set up at my house that morning. Everyone loved their makeup and came out picture perfect as always. Victoria always listened to what i was looking for and she truly gave me the exact wedding look i was going for. We love VEM!!!!!

Hair by Tara at Metromodes A++
My hair stayed all night long. I almost think it got better and better by the minute. Tara has done 2 of my gf's hair for their weddings and it has been consistent beautiful work every time. I highly suggest Tara for your special day.

Invites: A
Long Island Wedding & Event Planners Boutique
Bridget helped my mom and I put together my invite. I wanted something very elegant with my blush and black colors, without looking cheesy. She hit the nail on the head. We ended up spending more than we wanted but that was our own fault bc we ended up making one combined direction card, as well as we bought the colored wax to seal them with. We Wax sealed each invite which looked amazing. We also were very lucky to have my best friend's mother offer to do the calligraphy for the addresses. They came out beautiful.


Honeymoon: Hawaii was great. I cant wait to go back. On all of our adventures I would offer these tips 1.) Talk to the guides, waiters, etc. They are super friendly and helpful and know so much about the island.2.) Buy breakfast bars, or snacks at ABC stores or Walmart. Breakfast can be expensive and you will be up early so its nice to have something to nosh on. 3.) Bring a backpack. I am not a backpack girl and boy was I glad I had one. 4.) for all you ladies who may be packing in advance as I did. Do not bring a lot of shoes. Sneakers and flip flops are standard. I wore heels twice, and I love heels.

Oahu-
hilton hawaiin village : Not our favorite. It was very touristy and very hustle and bustle. We tried to book Halekulani, and if we go back we would try again.
Morimoto: at the modern hotel, must eat there
Diamond Head: worth the hike
North Shore: must drive through

Kuai-
Hyatt: Amazing :) we ate at Yum Cha and Tidepools, so delish. Make sure you visit Michael at the pool Bar at the adult pool for a lava flow and Tai Chi.
Kipu Ranch ATV: so fun. we did the waterfall tour, but the other tour sounded fun as well. See beautiful scenery. I rode on back of my husbands and am happy I did because it was great to take in the surroundings.
Princeville Ziplinig: I am terrified of heights. This was not easy for me as it is very very high. But the tour was fun and the guides were great. We had a great time and I am glad I did it.
Andy's 6 hour BbQ snorkel Na Pali sail: I cant say enough about this. Hands down my favorite day. The food is amazing, staff is great. You feel like King and Queen. The scenery is breathtaking. I saw my first sea turtle and we sailed along side a pod of dolphins. Some were babies. Talk to the staff they have great stories.
Red Salt: Great Dinner at Koa kea hotel.Must have the rootbeer float dessert.
Hukilau Lanai: Good dinner, great prices on food and drinks.
Shaved Ice: try it its good :)

Maui- Our fav

Fairmont Kei Lani- Beuatiful suites, great service, good prices and very luxurious setting. Great sunsets. We probably will stay closer to Lahaina next time bc we spent most of our time there but Fairmont was a great place to be.
Old Lahaina Luau: do it. Great time, great dancing. The food wasnt the best but it was a great experience.
Mama's Fish House: Best meal of our trip. Must do , have the creme broulee, trust me. Its expensive but very very worth it.
Sensei: Amazing fresh sushi. We ordered everything on the menu, well almost. It wasn't very expensive compared to ny sushi, but depends on how much you order.
Lahaina Grill: Hard to pick but this is maybe tied for second favorite meal. Delicious. They treat you like a king and queen. Have the Kaua pie dessert and the Ahi Tuna.
Sarentos on the water: Great Italian food. Being from Ny it was good, not the best, but great great service and wonderful cocktails. Beautiful sunset.
Molikini snorkeling, four winds II: Great tour, saw sea turtles. Wasn't a huge fan of the snorkeling bc I felt like I didn't see many fish I haven't already seen. Staff was great and we did see a lot of sea turtles.
Shopping in Lahaina on Front Street is a must. Great jewelry and nic nac shopping.
Sunrise at Haleakala:Ok this was breathtaking. Although we had to wake up at 2 am and be on the road at 2:30 it was very worth it. We did a sunrise and bike tour. ***** I would recommend not doing the bike. You aren't biking, you are pretty much coasting down the mountain on very iffy turns, at 7 am, and believe me at that point you just want to go back to bed, or have breakfast. Do the sunrise on your own, or do a tour to only see the sunrise. I would skip the bike.












Hope this helps. I am going to put pics up once I know how. Please FM me with any details. I am sure I forgot some.

Half of My 9.21.12 Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo and more!!!!

everything looked beautiful... who did your hair, i love it!

Re: Half of My 9.21.12 Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo and more!!!!

Metromodes. Tara did it. She is amazing!!! It stayed all night

Half of My 9.21.12 Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo and more!!!!

Congratulations! Everything looked beautiful! I love the escort table arrangement with the pictures!! Were those lockets? i love that idea...Thats a nice way to incorporate our parents wedding pictures. where did you get them?

Re: Half of My 9.21.12 Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo and more!!!!

Thank you. I actually found them at the Pottery Barn Outlet , they are pretty heavy good quality. I wanted something looking like a locket and these were perfect. Maybe look around ornament stores too

Completed My 9.21.12 Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo , Hawaii honeymoon and more!!!!

Congratulations! Great review, thank you for sharing. You made a beautiful bride. I love all of your personal touches.

Re: 9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!!!!

Congratulations! Everything including you look beautiful. I'm getting married at WM next year. Any advice? Did they create the signature drink for you?

Re: 9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!!!!

we created it. I would just say to be super specific in general. Everything went beautifully so you have nothing to be worried about :)

Re: 9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!!!!

Beautiful!! Congrats!!!

Re: 9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!!!!

great review, you were a gorgeous bride and ur flower girl is super cute!

9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!!!!

great review and wonderful pics

Re: 9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!!!!

Beautiful!!!

9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!!!!

Congratulations! Everything is so sweet!

9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!!!!

what a great review your pics are beautiful

Re: 9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!!!!

Gorgeous! Congrats!

** UPDATED with pro pics by duet ****9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!!!!

BUMP, see pro pics....I am obsessed!

** UPDATED with PRO PICS by DUET/Jay ****9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!!!!

Gorgeous!!! I love everything!

Re: ** UPDATED with PRO PICS by DUET/Jay ****9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!

Who was your officiant a your wedding? I love your review, the vendors you used and the pro pics.

** UPDATED with PRO PICS by DUET/Jay ****9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!!!!

Thanks for posting, great review!! You've helped me so much for my Hawaii honeymoon! You and your wedding looked beautiful, great job!

Re: ** UPDATED with PRO PICS by DUET/Jay ****9.21.12 Best day of my Life ,Wedding review :) Westbury Manor, FBB, Body Rock, VEM, Allstar Limo, Jay Lim photo, Gemellis,Etsy, Hawaii honeymoon and more!

Beautiful!!!!