When Thea Sheinberg met Daniel Chiprut at the tender age of 17, her immediate chemistry with the handsome college student swiftly matured into a loving bond that completely belied how young she was. “Don’t let this girl out of your sight,” advised Daniel’s mother. “She’s a keeper.” A few months later, the depths of Thea’s devotion were established when she flew to Daniel’s side after Mrs. Chiprut’s brave battle with breast cancer came to an end. “Only a senior in high school, Thea had the strength, love, and selflessness to fly to Israel all alone to support me and my family during the memorial service and shiva,” remembers Daniel. He knew that Thea was unlike any other girl he had ever met, and that he would marry her someday. After seven years together, Daniel proposed.

Thea had always dreamed of marrying at her grandparent’s house where she had spent much of her life; after initial consideration of other venues at the encouragement of family members, Thea decided to stay true to her vision and make her childhood fantasy her bridal reality. Selecting a theme centered on romance, wonderful memories, and familial intimacy, the couple chose to incorporate an abundance of florals as well as candlelight into their event to create the magical ambiance they imagined. Since Thea already had a distinct vision, it made it easier to set the plans into action, although the bride credits her maid of honor for much of the success. “She was there for me at all hours of the day… it was so nice to have her there, and it made [planning] so much easier,” Thea explains.

The spacious backyard of the residence was lined with mounds of fresh flowers in pink, violet, and ivory hues that emerged from large vases atop pretty pedestals. Bridesmaids looked graceful in plum-colored dresses holding bouquets of mixed blossoms that mimicked the bride’s oversized version. When “Tiny Dancer” by Elton John began to play, Thea took her cue and slowly walked down the aisle with her father, making her way across the yard she had once played on as a little girl. “I felt like I was on a cloud, it was so dreamy… it was truly the best, most magical moment of my life,” describes the bride.

The couple joined hands beneath a beautiful chuppah fashioned of large roses, snowy hydrangea, leafy vines, and a mix of other colorful blossoms. Thea and Daniel opted to compose their own vows, which resulted in an intensely emotional and heartfelt exchange. “Danny chose to wear jewelry belonging to his late parents, and we took a moment to remember them both – it was like we could feel their presence,” remembers the bride. The sentimentalities continued with the couple’s choice of cantor. “We have both known him since childhood, and he has the most beautiful voice I have ever heard,” Daniel shares. “Having him marry us felt like a family member was performing the service, and that meant a lot to me.”

For the reception, a magnificent ivory-colored tent created a comfortable, relaxed setting that the couple hoped would display more of their personal style. Beautiful fabric was draped to form striking walkways that boasted hanging crystals and soft lighting. A mix of tall and short floral centerpieces adorned guests’ tables and harmonized wonderfully with the silk champagne-colored table linens.

Thea and Daniel were able to have fun with the dinner menu since there were no constraints on what could be served. Attendees enjoyed a trio of salads, Cornish game hens, tasty sea bass, and even a delectable vegetarian option of artichoke ravioli. Daniel was most proud of the intensity of the entertainment, and his personal involvement in choosing the renowned guitarist Nocy (formally of the Gypsy Kings) for a special performance. “Nocy set the room on fire with his incredible guitar wizardry… every person in the room was on the dance floor for his unbelievable performance,” says the groom.

As darkness settled in, happiness filled the night as guests continued to dance, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company. Thinking back to when his mother urged him to hang onto Thea, Daniel was grateful that his bride and his mom had such a strong connection – and that he ultimately heeded his mother’s advice. “She knew I was going to spend the rest of my life with Thea,” he says, “and our wedding was definitely the best day of my life.”