What would a Met Gala-inspired mansion wedding look like? Well, thanks to Kristina + Michael we’ve got an idea of just how glorious such a celebration could be.
“Our inspiration was a combination of the Met Gala and Miami’s Art Basel,” says the couple. “We wanted the wedding to feel less like a traditional wedding and more of a once in a lifetime experience, surrounded by opulence and love.”
The historic Gilded Age mansion Rosecliff in Newport, Rhode Island provided an exquisite setting for the elegance + creativity that Kristina, Michael, and the planning team led by Lisa Nightingale at Infinite Events brought to the event.
There were cloud-like ivory florals. There was a decadent ballroom reception. And there were live performers integrated throughout the wedding to create an enchanted + otherworldly atmosphere for Kristina + Michael’s lucky guests.
And wait until you see the details on Kristina’s gorgeous Galia Lahav wedding gown! The Cardonas captured every detail of this decadent day, so let’s take a look!
Natalie Dresher created Kristina’s sophisticated nude-lipped bridal makeup, and Victoria from Miami MarzStarz executed this perfect bridal ponytail
Everyone: we’d like to introduce you to the intricate glory that is “Élysée,” Kristina’s gorgeous Galia Lahav ceremony gown. 😍
Explore our lists of the best long sleeve wedding dresses and the most beautiful lace wedding dresses to entertain the idea of a bridal silhouette like Kristina’s.
“Michael had such a wonderful experience getting ready for our big weekend,” Kristina says. “He had each suit/tux custom made sporting Italian designers Loro Piana, Zegna, and Carnet Como curated by Shawn Christopher, known for his luxury handmade menswear.”
Portraits In The Garden
“In the afternoon, we had the most enjoyable one on one photoshoot filled with laughs and pure joy,” remember the bride + groom.
This simple + sophisticated mono-variety ivory rose bridal bouquet was just one of the countless all-white floral creations that Stoneblossom Florals contributed to Kristina + Michael’s day.
“I went to three bridal stores in hopes of finding my dream dress,” says Kristina. “And once I saw the Élysée gown come across my screen on social media one day, I knew it was my dress.”
“I brought my family and best friend with me to go try the gown on at the Galia Lahav flagship store down in Miami Design District. The lady that assisted us, Sandy, was so kind and helpful. The overall experience was a dream and a great start to my fairytale wedding.”
A First Look With Dad
“For her first look with her dad, the bride arranged a fleet of vintage cars to serve as a stunning backdrop,” says Yael Friedman from Galia Lahav. “While it made for unforgettable photos, the true intention was to honor their cherished memories of car shows and the deep bond they have built for classic cars over the years. This meaningful gesture was an emotional moment for the bride and dad due to his current year-long battle with stage three cancer.”
The Guests Arrive
“Upon arrival, guests posed for photos outside the venue with Atlantic Strings playing…”
“…before walking down a red carpet…”
“…which also served as the dress train for a live performer welcoming guests on stilts!”
Call the paparazzi, cause there were some seriously stunning black tie wedding guest looks on Kristina + Michael’s pre-ceremony red carpet.
“Guests were encouraged to dress on theme: floor-length gowns, dark & moody colors, bold accessories, shoulder pads, feathers, and more,” Yael says.
A Seaside Ceremony
There’s just something so stunning about simplicity when it comes to color. These all-ivory aisle-lining floral arrangements are just beyond beautiful!
For the ceremony Kristina added a voluminous off-white detachable train to her white lace Galia Lahav gown, creating a chic two-tone effect.
Our Musical Choices
Processional"Oceans" by Hillsong United (on violins + harp)Recessional"Praise" by Elevation Worship and Brandon Lakes (also on strings)First Dance"Can’t Have Mine" by Dylan Scott - we had a private first dance in the ballroom before opening it up to our guests
Our Favorite Memory
It is impossible to pick one moment throughout such a memorable day, but saying I do with the ocean on one side, the Rosecliff to the other with all of our family and friends watching was truly amazing.
Cocktail Hour Comes To Life
“Following the ceremony, guests were greeted with glasses of champagne from performers dressed as marble statues and were invited to explore and engage with this non-traditional event,” says Yael.
To put the celebration on-par with likes of iconic events like The Met Gala, Kristina + Michael cleverly nicknamed their big day “The ROW” — short for “The Rosecliff O’Connor Wedding.”
This inventive + interactive drink wall by Ryan Designs was just the beginning of the reception’s many surprises. “Guests rang a bell to choose between an Espresso Martini or Tequila Spritz, had their portraits painted by a live watercolor artist, savored fresh oysters from a raw bar as well as left voicemails for the bride and groom,” recalls Yael.
Such a fun + clever take on your typical champagne wall!
Audio guest books like Kristina + Michael’s are one of our favorite creative guest book ideas! Why not include an old timey telephone booth in your wedding day decor?!
If, like us, you cannot get enough of Galia Lahav’s breathtaking beadwork, structured bodices, and stunning silhouettes, go check out this enchanted Tahoe wedding, this charming California wedding in the woods, and this elegant beach wedding.
The Reception
Is it just us or — between the enchanted statues and the beautiful ballrooms — does this celebration feel very Beauty and the Beast in the best way?
Rentals from Borrowed Blu and La Affitto created a gorgeous, glowy reception atmosphere for Kristina, Michael, and their guest list.
We love to see these darling black velvet bows at each place setting! Bows are one of our fave wedding trends to watch.
All of the evening’s crisp white linens were provided by BBJ La Tavola.
“Walking into the ballroom of our dreams for the first time was a moment we’ll never forget. Our vision coming to life,” says Kristina. “Michael and I walked hand and hand taking in every detail…”
“…followed by an intimate private first dance.”
Don’t mind us. Just marveling at these waterfall floral arrangements filled with hydrangeas and baby’s breath.
Confectionary Designs created Kristina + Michael’s magnificent four tier wedding cake.
Hudson Horns was there providing plenty of live music along with Sounds Buono to keep the party going! 🎺
Live illustrations as guest favors! Another one of our fave wedding trends of the moment!
Our Advice
Get a planner and be organized. Also being prepared , having as much done as you can beforehand, so come wedding week you can sit back and enjoy all your hard work.
Kristina stunned in her short, strapless reception dress from Jaclyn Whyte Bridal. Those lace bridal gloves!!
Congratulations, Kristina + Michael, on your immersive + elegant Met Gala mansion wedding! All the very best from GWS!
Photography + Videography: The Cardonas | Planning: Infinite Events, led by Lisa Nightingale | Florals: Stoneblossom Florals | Venue: Newport Mansions | Custom Designs (Drink Wall, Custom Bars and more): Ryan Designs | Wedding Dress: Galia Lahav | Makeup Artist: Natalie Dresher | Hair Stylist: Victoria from Miami MarzStarz | Groom’s Suit: Shawn Christopher | Ceremony Music: Atlantic Strings | Wedding Cake: Confectionary Designs | Stationery: Wouldn’t It Be Lovely | Rentals: Borrowed Blu and La Affitto | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | DJ: Sounds Buono | Band: Hudson Horns | Reception Dress: Jaclyn Whyte Bridal | Social Content: Social by Si
