For Erin and Vito it truly was love at first sight! They first caught a glance of each other at a CBA swim meet where Erin was cheering on her younger brother and Vito was his coach. Vito's breath was taken away by the gorgeous blonde and she couldn't stop thinking of the handsome coach! A whirlwind summer romance found this couple madly in love and two years later Vito found the most romantic way to pop the question! With their fun summers at the shore as inspiration Vito scoured every antique store for the perfect vintage bottle, a true romantic he wrote a sweet note with the big question and lovingly antiqued it to match the bottle. With friends and family he set out to make the dream proposal. On the bridge in Spring Lake, NJ he placed the bottle for Erin to find as they took a romantic stroll before dinner. As the sun started to set she found the bottle and started to read the note, Vito got on one knee and proposed! For the big day they kept the shore vibe and decided they would be tying the knot with a nautical theme's at Rumson Country Club's Riverhouse. We couldn't think of a better way!
Read morePremier Tour of The Ashford Estate: Weddings of Distinction: New Jersey Wedding Photographers
It was an honor to attend the premier tour of The Ashford Estate, a pristine new luxury venue in Allentown, New Jersey from founder Chris Vernon. Guests were treated to divine food stations by Main Street Catering, hors d’oeuvres by Merri-Makers,and mixology by Marsilios. Vernon also choose to unveil his newest project Weddings of Distinction to hand selected wedding vendors from the area. Weddings of Distinction will be a collection of the finest destination wedding estates in New Jersey and Long Beach Island known for their exquisite staff & finest vendors. These estates include The Bonnet Island Estate, Mallard Island Yacht Club, The Stateroom, and now The Ashford Estate. Please enjoy the tour!
The Ashford Estate could only be described as height of elegance. The reflection pool with cypress trees and Grecian columns create a monumental yet peaceful backdrop for an outdoor ceremony, situated next to the beautiful antique pole barn for indoor ceremonies.
The Conservatory overlooks a picturesque pond with a floating gazebo, fountain, and stone bridge.
A tour around the property leads from one breath taking scene to the next.
From the moment I arrived upon the lion~clad iron gates and tree lined drive I knew this estate was the perfect setting for a romantic retreat.
The Tiffany blue french style bridal suite is light and airy with dramatic mirrored french doors leading to the grand staircase and hand painted domed ceiling. Perfect for bridal portraits!
A palm tree lined path leads guests along to the grand ballroom with custom Fennelli lighting. Looking out the windows it seem as if the ballroom was placed in the middle of a Tuscan vineyard.
The dramatic entrance leads the way to a beautiful wood appointed library on one side & parlor room on the other. Lush fully mature trees and maticulously manicured gardens create a tranquile & refined atmosphere.
The rooms are elegantly apponited with warm & inviting fireplaces and beautiful views.
The sunsets on the estate took my breath away!