Nikki + Carmen

When I was a little girl, my family took me to the Thousand Islands for a trip. They told me I was going to an ACTUAL castle on an island, one that was built out of love by a man for his wife. I remember being overwhelmed by the beauty of it all and the story behind it. Walking the grounds of the castle, I dreamt of a wedding, the ball gown, flowing train, and everything magical and happy that goes along with it. Fast forward to now, almost every weekend, I get to share in so many sweet bride’s childhood dreams! So when Nikki and Carmen contacted us about their wedding, my heart skipped a beat! Nikki shared that similar dream of a castle wedding, and I couldn’t wait to watch the dream come to life!

Fun fact about our Bride, if you did not know, Nikki is a Wedding planner! That meant from the beginning of the day till the end, every detail was hand picked to perfection! The morning of the big day, the bride to be and all of her lovely bridesmaids were getting hair and makeup done at a nearby hotel just a few short minutes boat ride from Heart Island. Meanwhile Tom spent the morning at “Island Guiliano”, their Lake camp at Wellesley Island with Carmen,the groomsmen, and the three sweetest little ring bearers! When the bridesmaids were into their elegant black gowns, and the groomsmen were suited in their snazzy suits, both parties headed over to the Castle. When we arrived the castle was filled with touring groups, and as Nikki made her way from the bridal suite to the terrace for a first look with her father and bridesmaids, the ballroom filled with strangers erupted with squeals and cheers as cameras clicked away in awe of the beautiful bride! The excitement only grew for Nikki when Dad and the Bridesmaids got to finally see her in her gown, tears and hugs could not be held back!

Just outside of the main castle is the Dove-Cote, a stunning tower made of stone, and the first structure built on the Island. This is where guests filed into rows of white chairs  for the ceremony. It’s fun to think that the beginning of the Castle, is where Carmen and Nikki would begin their new journey as husband and wife. When it was time and the harpist began to play, Nikki wrapped her arm around her dad and made her way to Carmen. Mist floated in the air, and it was truly an incredible moment when she stopped at the end of the aisle to take it all in, because we all know moments that sweet are fleeting. When the two were finally hand in hand the mist had stopped, it was like something out of a dream! After vows and a sand ceremony, the two shared multiple first kisses as an official married couple!

After running all around the castle for photos, we jumped back onto boats to cruise over to the reception! When we arrived to Savory, the ballroom was decorated ceiling to floor in gold, glam and glitter! We loved all of the beautiful details and it was clear to see the love that Nikki put into it! Four special dances were shared, three amazing toasts, delicious dinner, cake (that was almost too pretty to cut into), and ended the night with an epic sparkler exit!

Thank you Nikki and Carmen for letting us be a part of your wedding day! It was truly a dream come true! Sending you love and good wishes for your future!

Ceremony – Boldt Castle.   

Reception – Savory Downtown

Hair stylist: Kayleigh of Creative Edge Design (bridesmaids & Mom’s by Creative Edge!)

Makeup artist: Nicole Cieslewitz of Makeup by Nicole Marie, 2nd artist, Kristin Ciotti of Blush Makeup Artistry

Wedding coordinator : The bride- Nikki Jon’s Wedding & Co. & Amanda Vargo.

Officiant: Todd Gorman

Invitations: Shutterfly

Florals: Price Chopper

Wedding dress: Kitty Chen, from Mirror Mirror Bridal INC

Hairpiece & Veil:  ETSY- Beccas Bridal Boutique (hairpiece – Amazon)

Rings: Englebert’s Jewelers, (custom made by the Groom)

Bridesmaid dresses: Jim Hjelm by Hayley Paige

Groomsmen Suits: Men’s Warehouse

Videography: Ridge 44 Productions, Morgan Elliott

Cake: Ashley Miller of Kiss & Cake Up!

Music: Altered Vizions Entertainment  (DJ, uplighting & photobooth)

Desserts: Cindy Guiliano, Groom’s Mom

Décor- The Bride & Exclusively Yours by Wendy

Seating Sign Mirror- Tail & Toppings by Alyssa

Other Wedding Signage- Petunia’s Farmhouse