Together is Better // Madison + Hugh

Mar 3
4 min read

We were excited to return to the charming seaside town of Cape May for Madison and Hugh's wedding event in early October! The weather was absolutely perfect, actually very sunny and summer-like on this fall day. And as they always do, Bel Momento Weddings helped to plan and organize a flawless, fun and truly memorable wedding event.

Even though Maddie and Hugh attended nearby elementary schools and knew many of the same people from those days, their paths never crossed until they met during their freshman year of high school at a Halloween party given by mutual friends. By January, the two were officially dating and remained together all through high school. When it came time to choose their colleges, they made independent decisions to attend the same one in Boston (as they each had family that went there as well). Maddie and Hugh then happily spent all four of their college years together.

With the couple's personal historical ties to the Philadelphia area, Boston, New York and the Jersey shore, Hugh wanted to be strategic in the location he chose to propose to Maddie. He knew their wedding would take place in Cape May, and figured Maddie's bridal shower would be near family in Philadelphia, so he picked New York for his proposal. He and Maddie moved there after college and had lived in Tribeca for a few years, so the city, and this area in particular, holds a special place in their hearts.

Hugh's sister was due to have a baby soon, and he wanted to be sure to propose before then, so he chose an earlier date at the luxury Greenwich Hotel in Tribeca. Concocting a little white lie, Hugh told Maddie that his parents were staying in the hotel ahead of his sister's due date, and they should go visit and see their room. Well, he surprised her twice when he let her know the room was theirs, and then asked her to be his wife! Another surprise awaited Maddie, as both of their families were waiting downstairs and would be joining them for dinner. And yet, the final surprise was that they were meeting with friends at a nearby bar afterwards to have even more fun! What a wonderful night to celebrate their love and future together, shared with those that love them, too.

bride having veil fitted with help from her mother and maid of honor

bride with her bridal party in blush pink

Maddie got ready for her day with her bridal party at the beautiful and historic oceanfront resort, Congress Hall. After Taffeta Salon & Spa completed everyone's hair and makeup, the maid of honor and bridesmaids had those fun pajama photos taken with Maddie before they dressed into their beautiful pink gowns.

And Maddie dressed into her amazing gown then as well. She wore such a beautiful Sareh Nouri wedding dress, with all its lovely 3D floral lace appliqués! It featured delicate appliquéd shoulder straps, a subtle scooped neckline and a perfect princess A-line silhouette. And her long, graceful veil looked so lovely for the ceremony. Maddie was the most gorgeous bride!

groom's father straightens his son's tie

Hugh also got ready at Congress Hall, looking marvelous along with his party in their classic black tuxedos... no socks per the fantastic current trend! They were soon ready to hop on the trolley to head to the church.

bride walking down the aisle on the arm of her father

Maddie and Hugh's ceremony was held nearby at Our Lady Star of the Sea. Their traditional Catholic marriage ceremony was beautiful and after vows were recited and rings exchanged, they were pronounced as 'husband and wife'. And as they exited the church, their wedding party was right there to wave ribbon wands in celebration!

The trolley brought the wedding party back to Congress Hall for their fabulous photo shoot with Rachel Pearlman Photography. We're so fortunate to have the pleasure of working with Rachel and her team for quite a few weddings, especially at the shore. And her photos are always incredible. Don't miss seeing some of her photos from this beautiful wedding on her instagram site, including those fantastic photos of Maddie and Hugh on the beach!

aerial view of congress hall in cape may nj

Meanwhile, guests headed to Congress Hall for cocktails and then the gorgeous reception in the ballroom. Cape May Flower Co. outdid themselves as usual... the textured, wildflower-esque styled floral centerpieces in shades of pink and peach were simply amazing. Maddie and Hugh's arrival was announced, and as guests gathered around, they headed for the middle of the floor for their romantic first dance.

bride and groom dance the first dance at the reception

Following the beautiful blessing, we were treated to such a wonderful welcome speech and toast from Maddie's father. We loved how he said Hugh was as perfect as perfect gets and that Maddie will always be his little girl. And his four wishes and blessings for them: love, patience, laughter and friendship, were just lovely. Right afterwards, he and Maddie went out to the dance floor to dance that special father-daughter dance, followed by an equally sweet mother-son dance by Hugh and his mother.

Maddie's maid of honor, her good friend, and Hugh's brother and best man gave heartfelt toasts to the bride and groom as salads were served. All of the toasters were so relaxed and such great public speakers! Then after dinner, Maddie and Hugh cut and sampled their amazing four-tiered wedding cake in private as the band, Go Go Gadjet, started the music again. They were so awesome, and kept the party roaring all evening!

It was so much fun to be a part of capturing this fabulous, carefree wedding day in Cape May! Shore weddings always have a natural mix of both formal and relaxed elements, and this wedding truly perfected that beautiful blend. We wish our sincerest congratulations and best wishes in all their years ahead to Maddie and Hugh.