Beachfront wedding at the Icona Windrift in Avalon, NJ

Jacquelyn and PJ at the Icona Windrift in Avalon

Posted on August 20, 2024
By Molly Gregor

Their Story

Jacquelyn and PJ first met during the pandemic in July 2020 when they were both living at home. “Our first two dates were boring because nothing was open, but we knew there was something there so we kept chugging along,” Jacquelyn says. “Once things started to settle, I had to return to work and our long-distance relationship started. After six months, we realized we were the real deal and moved to NYC. It was so fun to live in a magical city and what felt like to ‘grow into adults’ together. We will cherish those memories forever.”

Will You Marry Me?

“We finally moved in together in May 2023, and it was the best thing ever,” Jacquelyn explains. “Like a sleepover with your best friend every day, and we really made the house a home.” After a lot of impatience from Jacquelyn and just wanting to take on the next step, PJ proposed in their living room on a Wednesday night. “We shared a celebratory dinner at Sorellina in Hoboken, and it feels like we have been celebrating ever since,” she adds.

Details of the Day

“Our décor was classic but fun,” Jacquelyn says. “I wanted everything to be very stylish but have a pop of color. We really leaned into the beach theme with simple seashells, linens and watercolors.” Their cake was classic with a pop of color, with Jacquelyn’s favorite saying on the cake topper: “Foreva Eva.” The retro script matched the matches they had set out at the bars and in the welcome bags.

First Dance

“Our first dance song was one I never heard anyone else do—’Just You & I,’ by Tom Walker. We also had the song name engraved on our wedding bands,” Jacquelyn adds.

Why Did You Choose the Icona?

“I grew up vacationing in Avalon, and the Windrift was the only place I could see myself getting married,” Jacquelyn explains. “Absolutely gorgeous and can’t beat the beach ceremony, oceanfront views, food and service. Another big reason we booked was the amazing cocktail hour—love the personal charcuterie boards with wine and fresh-cut prosciutto!”

Favorite Moment

“Our favorite moments were walking down the aisle to each other, on the beach and the more perfect weather day,” Jacquelyn says. “We didn’t do a first look, so that was really exciting. Another favorite was seeing 200 of our favorite people on the dance floor all night—no joke, it was packed!”

Favorite Detail

“The Chatterband! Everyone said it was the best wedding they’ve ever been to,” Jacquelyn explains. “I really think the band is the reason. Additionally, during the entire process I didn’t put too much pressure on myself. I just kept reminding myself, my friends and family, and my vendors that the complete vibe is ‘fun and nothing too serious.’ All we really wanted to do was celebrate with our favorite people. It was amazing.”

Advice for Others

“Have fun!” Jacquelyn says. “The wedding is one day, so make it yours. Don’t get caught up in the little things, don’t buy the little items that nobody cares about. Stay with your partner the entire night. Say hi to everyone quick and get on the dance floor, or wait for them to come to you.”

Honeymoon

Jacquelyn and PJ went to Punta Cana for seven nights and stayed at Secrets Cap Cana. “It was simply amazing to take a week off and be happy together,” Jacquelyn adds. “We spent most days at the pool bouncing from bar to bar, taking a midday nap and watching the NBA finals at the pool bar! Upgrading to a swim-out room with a butler was the best decision we could have made.”