Attending different universities, fate brought Katie Knisely and Jeremy Fischer together as they met while studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain. They eventually moved in together, worked towards their careers, and got engaged during a lovely walk on the beach in New Jersey. “It's my favorite place in the world – beautiful and peaceful, and now it marks the start of our lifetime together,” the bride describes.

The duo wed in mid-October at a charming château in the Garden State. Friends and loved ones gathered outside the verdant venue at sunset for a Jewish ceremony that featured a whimsical chuppah showcasing greenery, crystals, and blooms in varying shades of maroon and fuschia. Jeremy gazed in awe as his bride was escorted down the aisle in a lace off-the-shoulder Anne Barge gown from Mark Ingram Atelier. A lovely custom aisle runner designed by The Original Runner Company was decorated with petals matching the scheme of the chuppah. They incorporated modern and spiritual elements into the service and ensured the rabbi truly expressed who they are as a couple. “He was committed to getting to know us and telling our story in a way that was authentic and natural,” Katie recalls.

Attendees enjoyed fresh hors d'oeuvres during cocktail hour as the pair spent a few moments taking memorable photos alone with their photographer. “For me, it was a chance to take in the moment, be present, and take a breath before the party started. The photos from those moments are some I will cherish forever,” Katie muses. After their last snapshot, they joined guests inside the venue for a fun and festive fête. Everyone danced the night away to the sounds of a live band and surrounded the newlywed couple as their chairs were lifted during the hora. “The reception hummed with energy and our friends and family danced until the party turned into the after-party,” she recalls.

Confiding that her wedding was a dream come true, Katie wants other engaged couples to know how they too can share this same feeling: “Make choices that are true to you and your fiancé's character and personality. You may feel pressure to please others as you consider all of the family and friends who will be joining you on your day, but when it's all over, your memories should reflect a celebration that feels most genuine to you.”