Maria and Chris got married at Park Chateau on July 27, 2024.
Their Story
They met freshman year of college at Hofstra University (September 2013).
Chris and Maria lived directly across the hall from each other in the dorms.

“One night during the first week of school, his friends knocked on Maria’s door and asked if she and all her roommates wanted to go out to the bar,” says Maria. “We immediately connected and here we are over 11 years later!”

The Proposal
The couple loves traveling to Myrtle Beach together.

Chris proposed at Brookgreen Gardens in South Carolina, which is a gorgeous outdoor botanical garden with oak trees, sculptures and lights.
“It was the perfect night!” says Maria.
[RELATED: The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Venues in New Jersey]
Details of the Day
Chris and Maria had a fusion wedding, which included Indian and traditional western ceremonies on the same day.

Their Hindu ceremony was outdoors at Park Chateau. “We had used red, pink and white roses to match the florals in their gardens,” says Maria.

“Our traditional ceremony in the chapel and our reception were more classic, where we incorporated white roses, orchids, hydrangeas and pops of light blue and gold.”
[RELATED: Looking for a photographer? Start your search here!]
Choosing the Venue
“There are so many reasons we chose Park Chateau,” says Maria. “To start, it is just the most stunning venue. We particularly loved the outdoor gardens and chapel.”

“We also loved the ballroom, bridal suites and cocktail hour space. The food, drinks, and atmosphere are top-notch. Most importantly, the staff and service are absolutely incredible,” she says.

Favorite Moment
“Since we had so many wedding events, it’s hard to pick a favorite moment,” says Maria. “We loved so many things about all of our ceremonies and really had the most perfect wedding.”

“I think being surrounded by our loving friends and family was the best part.”
Detail They Couldn’t Live Without
“I loved having multiple outfit changes, which made for so many great photos and different looks throughout our wedding events!” she says.

[RELATED: Considering a second wedding dress? Here’s inspo for your wedding reception dress from real brides.]
Wedding Day Attire
Their bridal party was in light blue and Maria wore a beautiful cherry red lehenga for the Hindu wedding.

For the chapel, the bride changed into a crepe white bridal gown with a lace train and cathedral veil while Chris wore a custom black tux.
For the reception, Maria changed into a sparkly, white feather gown and Chris wore a white tux with black accents.

Advice for Other Couples
“Your wedding day will go by so fast,” she says. “Try to take in and enjoy as much as possible.”
“Don’t stress the little details. You will remember it forever and will miss it when it’s over!”

Honeymoon
The newlyweds went to St Barths a few months after the wedding in November 2024.
“It was so much fun and we would love to go back,” says Maria. “The island gives off a luxury Caribbean yet European vibe. We would highly recommend!”

Sign up for our Something New newsletter for weekly wedding ideas, inspiration and advice from New Jersey Bride—sent right to your inbox!
Photo Gallery
Christopher and Maria's vendor team
Nestled on 15 rolling acres, the Park Château Estate & Gardens is a beautiful wedding venue and event hall bringing guests over 30 years of catering experience. ...