Allison & Josh Celebrate with a Beautiful, Multi-Cultural Reception

The weddings we remember most are those that are a true expression of a couple’s love and personality. Allison and Josh let guests know that nuptials were going to be uniquely genuine before a ceremony program was handed out or centerpiece was put on display. “We had our welcome dinner at Shun Lee West the night before,” Allison says. “We tried to weave in both of our backgrounds.” A nod to the bride’s Chinese heritage and groom’s Jewish faith continued through the festive, multi-cultural reception. Here, Allison shares the final chapter in her Real BB wedding story.

Part 4: Tablescape and Entertainment

After enjoying post-ceremony drinks, which included the Spicy Ruthless, a signature margarita named after the couple’s puppy Ruthie, and hors d’oeuvres, everyone headed to the Garden Terrace Room where they were greeted with a breathtaking scene. Drawing inspiration from the New York Botanical Garden’s late summer bloom outside, the interior space was embellished with lush, organic florals in shades of blush, white, pale pink, and ivory. Table décor featured three different centerpieces. The first style took shape in a towering arrangement of playa blanca, majolica spray, and sweet eskimo roses and stock complemented by lemon leaf, silver dollar eucalyptus, and Italian ruscus. Other tables were topped with low centerpieces of similar flowers. Last minute cancellations forced the couple to reconsider their original seating layout. Allison recounts, “Carla (Bride & Blossom’s Wedding Director) was so great, she switched up the designs as soon as we realized our seating plan was not going to work. The week of, we incorporated two long tables with tall floating centerpieces, which flanked both sides of the dance floor.” Adding a hint of glamour to the atmosphere, these tablescapes focused on gold harlow stands topped with beautiful roses, stock, hydrangeas, and peonies paired with silver dollar and gunni eucalyptus and feather leaf. The bride adds, “They truly elevated the room.” Up-lighting was also added in the eleventh hour, capturing an intimate, fun vibe for the evening.

 

 

In addition to ambiance and cuisine (the live sushi station with chef was a big hit), a great party must have entertainment. Allison and Josh had planned a spectacular night that began with a traditional Chinese dragon dance symbolizing blessings and good luck. “It was a real treat for our guests,” Allison says. “They had red packets and could go up and feed the dragon.” The performance was followed by the Hora, the Jewish tradition of raising the bride and groom on chairs. Allison exclaims, “We had a blast!”

 

In a day filled with so much joy and celebration, we asked Allison if there were any memories that stood out. She thinks for a second and says, “Our first look on Park Avenue was such a special moment for both of us. It’s nice to look back at our photos and have shots of the iconic cityscape braking up the greenery of the gardens. And I’ll always cherish the time we got to spend together in the bridal suite right after the ceremony, enjoying small bites and reflecting on what just happened.” The couple’s wedding also coincided with NYBG’s Yayoi Kusama exhibition. Allison remembers, “What a dream that was!” Deliveries from the couple’s favorite pizza spot, Joe’s, fueled after-hours dancing and Karaoke in midtown. Perhaps the best moments from getting married at New York Botanical Garden are yet to come for Allison and Josh. The bride left us with this touching thought. “We love that we will be able to visit our wedding venue years from now, and share it with our future family.”

 

Congratulations, Allison & Josh! A big thank you for sharing your Real BB Wedding Story with us!

Venue: New York Botanical Garden
Photographer + Videographer: Emma Cleary Photo + Video
Coordinator: Blossom Events
Bride’s Dress: Maison Signore from Kleinfeld Bridal
Bride’s Shoes: Gionvito Rossi
Bride’s Veil: Toni Federici
Groom’s Tux: Zegna
Groom’s Shoes: Ferragamo
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Jenny Yoo
Hair + Makeup: CEO Beauty
Invitations: Minted
Caterer: Constellation
Music: Hank Lane Music
Lighting: Universal Light & Sound