Brianna and Jayson got married on July 12, 2024 at Nanina’s in the Park.

The couple met while they were both working at a local Italian restaurant in 2016.

Brianna had just finished college and was working part-time while applying to graduate school. Jayson had worked at the restaurant during college and had just restarted after returning from hiking the Appalachian Trail.

“We went on our first date a couple of months after working together and have been together ever since,” says Brianna.

The Proposal 

They did long distance for several years while Brianna was completing her Ph.D. After finishing school, Brianna moved back to New Jersey and they finally moved in together.

They had been waiting for Brianna to finish her degree before getting married.

Jayson completely surprised Brianna with his proposal. It was a Monday evening and he had said they were going to a friend’s birthday dinner in Asbury Park.

[RELATED: Looking for a photographer? Start your search here!]

Details of the Day 

They didn’t have a specific theme in mind when they were planning our wedding but their dress code was black tie.

“We wanted our wedding to be formal and timeless,” says Brianna. “We opted for classic colorscapes (black, white, gold) and neutral summer florals.”

“Most importantly, we wanted our wedding to be FUN!” she says. “We had lots of exciting extras, like an electric violinist and dancing robots to keep the party going.”

[RELATED: The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Venues in New Jersey]

Choosing the Venue

“We loved Nanina’s for so many reasons!” says the bride. “We appreciate that it is a family-owned business and that they really take the time to get to know their couples before their weddings.”

“Their food is absolutely incredible and there is such an abundance. We love food and wanted to make sure our guests were well taken care of.”

“We also absolutely adored the outdoor spaces at Nanina’s, as well as their brand new chapel.”

Favorite Moment

“One of the highlights was walking into our reception as husband and wife and seeing all of our family and friends there ready to celebrate our love,” says Brianna.

Detail They Couldn’t Live Without

“We love our pets and couldn’t imagine our big day without them,” says the bride.

“We had them featured in several spots during our wedding—our signature cocktails were named after them and we got customized napkins with their faces on them.”

Advice For Other Couples

“Try to enjoy every moment,” says Brianna. “Planning a wedding is so stressful and then is over before you know it. Stay present and make memories together.”

Honeymoon

They went on a mini-moon to Napa Valley in California for a week after their wedding. They are going on a full honeymoon to Greece (Athens, Mykonos, Milos, and Crete) at the end of August!

Sign up for our Something New newsletter for weekly wedding ideas, inspiration and advice from New Jersey Bride—sent right to your inbox!