Brides & Weddings Magazine
Captured & submitted by J&J Studios, LLC
Dana and Sean met on social media in 2009, thanks to Facebook! Sean wanted to get to know Dana more, so he made a move (on one of Dana’s posts, of course). The two met up for a swim date, and they became inseparable ever since.
Falling In Love
One beautiful day in Delaware, Sean and Dana took a trip to a pumpkin patch. While they were searching for the perfect pumpkin, Sean quickly wrote “Marry Me” on one and put the ring on it. As Dana came over to see if he found any good ones yet, he asked, “Which pumpkin do you like best?” Guess what? Surprise! Sean got down on one knee, and the rest is history. It was an autumn outing they will remember for the rest of their lives.
COVID-19’s Unwanted Arrival
Since the proposal, the two had planned the perfect wedding. Everything was going smoothly until March when COVID-19 hit. A global pandemic can definitely change things. Being essential workers, Dana and Sean had little to no time to prepare for their big day. On top of that, Dana was a student during the summer semester. Their days consisted of sleep, work, and school. There were hard times that came, and they honestly considered postponing.
Not All Heroes Wear Capes
But, a ray of hope came along. Luckily, a woman named Leanne from Luxe & Lovely Events reached out to them and asked if they needed help getting everything ready. She was the perfect coordinator for them, and the three had an instant bond. In July, they decided they would get married on the day they planned, and there was nothing that would stop them. She took over the wedding planning from there, and let’s just say, it was a wedding I will never forget. The superwoman handled the signage, decor, florals, centerpieces, hotel boxes – I mean just about everything. To social distance and be as safe as possible, they decided on having an outdoor ceremony that included plenty of room.
The Big Day
It was a great time capturing the wedding parties get ready at the Hilton Wilmington/Christiana. It was honestly like spa day for Dana and Sean! Face masks, undereye patches, hair trims – you name it. There’s no better feeling than looking and feeling your best on your wedding day. Both of them cleaned up nicely and looked fantastic.
When we asked Dana what one of his favorite moments from their wedding day, it was this: “When I was walking up to Sean during our first look. His back was towards me, but I could see him smiling ear to ear. It gave me butterflies. He turned around to see me and the love in his eyes was unforgettable.”
Some of Sean’s favorite memories from the day included seeing Dana walk down the aisle with his mom. It was a moment he said he won’t ever forget. Another favorite was when the two of them had their mother/son dances during the reception. They all danced together for the first time as a family!
AMAZING VENDORS!
Sean and Dana said, “We were blessed with great vendors. Every single one of them were very accommodating and willing to be flexible with anything related to COVID-19. We couldn’t of asked for better vendors!”
Here’s a special thanks to everyone who helped make the perfect wedding! We want to make sure we give a shoutout to everyone who went above and beyond.
Accommodations
Hilton Christiana-Gabrielle Compton
The beautiful hotel where everyone stayed and got ready.
Gianna Schroeder
The mastermind behind the beauty and styling!
Floral Designer
Belak Flowers
Stunning sunflowers and roses creations.
gold black wedding table decor with sunflowers
Caterer
The Farmhouse
The venue itself catered amazing cuisine!
Specialty Foods
Cakes By Kim
Delectable mini creme brulee & more!
Cake Designer
Baked By Dan – Dan Langan: @bakedbydan
Invitations
Shutterfly
They recreated their invitation into a memorable glass piece!
Favors/Gifts
Custom Masks by KP’s Craft Room – Dana Rappa
Keeping everyone safe and stylish!
Tuxedo Store
Suit Supply
The perfect place to find your dream tux.
Officiant
Katie Whalen
She did a fantastic job officiating two beautiful souls.
Rings
Sisters Jewelry of Mullica Hill – Donna
Exquisitely designed wedding rings!
Band/DJ
First Generation Sound Production – Sean Lee
He knows exactly how to turn it up a notch and get people moving!
Venue
The Farmhouse – Anna
Her help with coordinating this event was so helpful. The venue was beautiful, inside and out!
Wedding Planner
Leeanne Rocheleau
She is a workhorse! Everything went smoothly, thanks to her.
Shoes
Christian Louboutin
Classic shoes with fiery red bottoms!
