An Abundance of Roses: Dream Wedding at The Plaza Hotel

“Jason and I grew up a few blocks from one another in New York. We always knew of one another, but never met,” bride Marianna told us. “One day, ten years ago, I was walking home during a horrible snow storm. Jason and a mutual friend stopped their car to offer me a ride. Being the girl that I am, I said no way!”

But fate kept trying to bring this couple together. “Six years went by before we met again at a party,” said Marianna. “As soon as he walked in, he saw me and our eyes locked. Ever since that moment, we have been inseparable. On December 30, 2013, Jason popped the question in Hawaii.”

A girl after our own hearts, Marianna’s thoughts soon turned to flowers. “As soon as we set the date – March 1, 2015 – I knew I wanted an abundance of roses. I believe roses are the flower of love,” she said.

“I have very distinct taste,” she said. “And I was so involved in every process of the flowers that I wanted to find the perfect vendor who would understand without trying to talk me out of things. That is when I found Rachel. She made my vision come true.”

The Plaza Hotel, a Manhattan landmark and world-class, luxury hotel, was the perfect wedding venue for Marianna and Jason. With a prestigious Fifth Avenue address, right on Central Park, the hotel is woven through the city’s history and mythology. “I wanted a very New York City wedding,” said the bride. “We are the poster children of classic New York.” The Plaza’s opulent Grand Ballroom seemed made for this wedding. “I did not want to look back and feel, oh it was trendy back then,” she said. “I wanted it to feel royal and gorgeous.”

“I wanted each centerpiece to have 360 roses to signify a full circle like our rings,” said Marianna. “Corny, I know, but I am a girl who knows what she wants.” We arranged over 10,000 specialty roses in shades of cream, blush, and lavender to create dramatic, high centerpieces with an ombré effect.

“Jason and I did not let anyone get involved in wedding planning. Everything was done through my blood, sweat and tears,” said Marianna. On the day of the wedding, Jason oversaw details while his bride prepared to walk down the aisle. “My husband made sure that every little hiccup was kept of my sight and fixed,” said Marianna. “He did not let me know when we couldn’t find the band or that we lost a few bridal party members. He made sure our wedding day was flawless and that I never had to worry.”

The couple exchanged heartfelt vows under a traditional, draped floral chuppah, adorned with white orchids. And yes, the band was found. Marianna has some advice for brides-to-be. “Ladies, if you can deal with the stress of planning your own wedding together you will be able to deal with anything,” she said. “The moment Jason first saw me in my dress, he shed many tears. I realized how much I love this man and that he and I can conquer whatever comes our way.”