Location: Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, USA
Setting: Country Club
Season: Summer
How long did the couple plan the event: 14 months
Number of guests: 200
Wedding theme/style: Classic, romantic, preppy, chic.
Kelsey and Ben’s love story unfolded like a romantic comedy with a Brooklyn twist. Their journey began when Ben moved into a townhouse with one of Kelsey’s college roommates. As fate would have it, this living arrangement would sow the seeds of a future together. It wasn’t until Ben relocated and they were no longer surrounded by mutual friends that he gathered the courage to ask Kelsey out on a date. Her initial hesitation turned into agreement, marking the beginning of their life together. Their relationship culminated in a heartfelt proposal on a friend’s rooftop in Manhattan, followed by an engagement celebration surrounded by friends and family.
From the start, Ben and Kelsey knew they wanted a wedding that captured the essence of elegance without sacrificing the fun and light-hearted spirit they cherished. They envisioned their wedding at the Rehoboth Beach Country Club, with the Atlantic Ocean as their backdrop, aiming for a late summer celebration that resonated with a classic, romantic, and chic vibe.
The choice of Manda Weaver Photography as their photographer ensured that every moment, from the serene to the spectacular, was captured with grace. Kelsey said that Manda was “a wonderful photographer,” capturing all the details and emotions, making their special day unforgettable.
Kelsey chose the elegant ‘Chloe’ dress by Dana Harel, complemented by Jimmy Choo heels. Her look was not just about style but also about reflecting the spirit of their seaside setting, with a bouquet that was made in the ocean’s hues.
Ben showed classic elegance with a black tuxedo from SuitSupply. His look was completed with a stylish boutonniere, adding a touch of the day’s floral theme.
The ceremony was held outdoors, overlooking the bay, with the sound of ocean waves. The floral arrangements and décor echoed the sky and sea.
Pat, Kelsey’s brother and officiant, added a personal touch by inviting guests to pull out their phones and take pictures of the bride and groom before the ceremony started, which everyone enjoyed.
The couple wanted quick and upbeat ceremony. Kelsey walked down the aisle with her father to Blink-182 “I Miss You” covered by Vitamin String Quartet, which is both Kelsey’s favorite band but also Ben’s go-to karaoke song.
Post-ceremony, the newlyweds stole away for a moment by themselves on a secluded pier. These moments, captured with the ocean’s vastness around them, showcase the serene setting and the depth of their bond.
Their reception was set under a sailcloth tent with soft, warm lighting. The tables were dressed in light blue linens and adorned with lush arrangements of lilac, white, and green, setting a scene that was both enchanting and inviting. The Sid Miller Dance Band filled the evening with energy, ensuring the dance floor was never empty.
As the evening progressed, Kelsey slipped into a dazzling strapless mini dress by Galia Lahav, perfect for dancing.
The night was punctuated with a cake-cutting ceremony, featuring a classic cake paired with an array of Italian cookies and desserts, a nod to their favorite local bakery, Frank and Louie’s. As a unique touch, the couple served pizza from Kelsey’s favorite pizzeria, a delightful surprise that was a hit with the guests.
Among the highlights was the t-shirt toss, where Kelsey and Ben threw custom-made shirts to their dancing guests, creating a playful and memorable moment. The reception concluded with everyone joining in for a lively rendition of “Bohemian Rhapsody,” a family tradition that brought everyone together in song and dance.
Advice from the couple:
• The main thing that your guests should remember is the dance floor, so take the time and resources to find the right band/DJ for you and your guests, and everyone will have a great time.
PHOTOGRAPHER Manda Weaver | PLANNER & DESIGN Belle of the Ball Weddings | VENUE Rehoboth Beach Country Club | FLORIST & RENTALS Pretty Little Wedding Co. | MUAH Updos for I Dos | SUIT Suit Supply | CEREMONY DRESS Dana Harel | RECEPTION DRESS Galia Lahav | DRESS BOUTIQUE Mark Ingram Atelier | SHOES Jimmy Choo | RING BOX The Styling Reserve | STATIONERY Lewes Lettering Co. | LINENS Select Event Rental | DESSERTS Frank and Louie’s | TENT Collective Event Group | BAND Sid Miller Band | TRANSPORT Jolly Trolley | PHOTO BACKDROP Ultraviolet Backdrops
