Hosting her nuptials to Daniel Brown in her hometown of Garden City, New York, was significant for Mary Winchurch. The proximity to her family home also proved helpful for Mary’s mother, who was very involved in the orchestration of the celebration. “I think my wedding planning was a second job for her,” notes the bride with a smile. Her father also lent his artistic talents by designing a delightful “wedding weekend map for guests that illustrated all of the events and other fun things to do on Long Island,” says Mary.

The ceremony was held at the same church where the bride's parents said “I do,” and where she and her family attended services when she was growing up. The bridal party was composed of groomsmen attired in navy blue suits and periwinkle ties, and bridesmaids clad in mismatched seafoam dresses. “My sisters were bridesmaids and one was my maid of honor,” shares Mary. “They were so supportive and sweet!” The beaming bride approached the ornate, gilded altar featuring marble columns in an Alençon lace gown with cap sleeves, a scalloped neckline, a sash tied into a bow, and a romantic court-length train. Daniel donned a royal blue suit and a canary yellow tie.

After the vow exchange, attendees headed to a private country club – a location that was also minutes from the bride’s family home – for the reception. Though the festivities began with a traditional mass, the alfresco cocktail hour set the tone for the casual summer wedding the couple desired. Loved ones mingled and enjoyed a view of the property’s lush golf course. “We hoped our guests would have a fun time and feel relaxed,” shares the bride. “We tried to not to pack too much into the reception schedule or impose a formal dress code.”

The sit-down dinner was served in a light-filled space with floor-to-ceiling windows. Dark wood chairs with luxurious moss green upholstery surrounded tables draped in ivory linens. Understated centerpieces included pearl hydrangeas, peach gerbera daisies and roses, and greenery in modern cube vases. Roses in the same summery hue, along with foliage and mint hydrangea sprigs, adorned the three-layer ivory wedding cake. The confection featured chocolate lava-flavored cake beneath creamy, vanilla bean icing.

Looking back on their big day, Mary and Daniel wouldn’t change a thing. “Despite some early efforts, it all came together at the last minute,” the bride marvels. “I was very pleasantly surprised by how great a job our venue and all of our vendors did.”