My Review

***** ALL OF THE PROOFS POSTED HAVE BEEN SCANNED AND DO NOT REFLECT THEIR TRUE QUALITY!********


LI WEDDINGS: A+++++++++++++++

OMG I don’t know what I would have done without this site and the help of all of the wonderful people that are members. The addiction keeps growing day by day! I have no idea how people plan a wedding in our area without this LIW!! What a great resource.

INVITATIONS AND BEYOND: A

My invitations were Encore. We got a good discounted price (I believe 15%) and got free printing on the envelopes by referring to their ad on the KNOT.
They were very courteous and helpful. They also did our direction cards which came out great.

KLEINFELDS: Gown & Veil D/A-

Eeek. Here we go. Well, I only tried on four gowns before I chose! The consultant was very nice, a bit pushy, but she knew what she was talking about. I originally wanted a “poofy” gown, but she told me “no, no, not for u”. I tried on 3 Reem gowns. Everyone loved the last one (“Adored”). I went for it. Mind you, I thought it would take months before I found a gown-and it took 1 day!! Yikes! I couldn’t believe it.

I ordered the gown in Ivory/gold. I made it perfectly clear to the consultant that I do not like gold, and she assured me that her (Reem’s) gold was “not really gold, but more of an antique copper, like the sample”. This was fine with me since I couldn’t wear white because it didn’t look good on me.

SO the gown came in and I swore it was not mine b/c the embroidery was bright gold and I absolutely hated it. The consultant denied everything she said to me although I remembered it like it was yesterday. It was a huge fiasco-I was trying on other gowns—until the manager stated I would never be able to get another Reem on such short notice (Or rather, they didn’t want to pay $$$$$ for it).

Anyway, so they brought it to the seamstress to tone down the gold with some silver thread and she did a small portion to show me what it would look like. I agreed to keep the gown and tone down the gold rather than choosing another dress. It was supposed to be done upon my next visit (first fitting).

I showed up for my 1st fitting, and low and behold, the gown was not done!! I had a bridezilla fit! But I believe rightfully so. They did the fitting and assured me that it was their problem and that it would be done. My second fitting: The gown looked so much better to me. Only the train was left to touch up. It looked so amazing in the end and I was soo happy with it. The team that fixed the embroidery did a great job. I felt the situation was handled by the staff fairly well and Kleinfeld’s came though in the end-but ugh what drama.

The veil is from Nelson D'Leon.

Wish I: Really really pushed the seamstress on the straps—they were a big pain and she kept having to make them shorter—they ended up falling down all nite! She was great though and did an awesome job with my bustle!

RK BRIDAL: A

I ordered 2 different Jim Hjelm styles, both in cashmere through the no-frills program. My girls got a great deal!!!!!

BARRONS: Tiara, hairclips and Guest Book. A+

I wish I would have known about this place before I got my veil!!! They are so super sweet and have such a wide selection of headpieces.

SHOE ELEGANCE: A+

The owner is soooo sweet, helpful and patient. I went to one store where the guy was like, “Honey those heels are really high” Like I’m some sort of moron that doesn’t know how to walk in heels. (although I am rather clumsy!)

FELDMAN ESQ.: A+

We used the Lynbrook location. They were great!!!!!! The tuxedos were in great condition and the staff was super nice and helpful. They even got a tux in a size they didn’t think was doable-and were so excited about it for us. DH was in a wedding and one of the groomsmen found change in his pocket ewwwwww. This place was the total opposite.

AISLE RUNNER: Erin MadeBye A

She actually was very good with getting back to me (I remember seeing posts that she was bad with this)and it came out great!! I ordered it way too close to the wedding and was worried I would not get it on time—I did! And it was beautiful!

RUSSO’S ON THE BAY: A+++++

I am so happy we decided to have our wedding there! It was unbelievable! The food, of course, was out of this world. The service was impeccable. My Maitre’d was Tracy-She was great. Tracy steamed my gown and took all of the stains out of my gown and my shoes-I was not expecting that! Tracy and her assistant had to fix my bustle all night b/c DH kept stepping on my gown!

The Bridal Suite (larger one) was beautiful and huge!!! It was a mini cocktail hour. Tracy brought us a sample of everything and explained what it was. I felt like we were King and Queen!

Frank Russo went around to our parents and us asking if everything was ok—he was walking around all night w/his headset. I truly felt like a princess they way the staff was treating us!! Really top notch!! The staff helped us pack up and gave the parents each a big box of samplings from the Viennese hour-which was so fabulous. We had 2 chocolate fountains that were huge (chocolate and vanilla), candy apples, cotton candy machine, popcorn machine all kinds of fabulous desserts. The drinks were coming non-stop—they even bring shots to the table!!! The Tivoli room is gorgeous! The bathrooms were clean and equipped with everything u need (hairspray, deodorant,etc. I feel like I COULD NOT HAVE MADE A BETTER CHOICE.

The cake: I was told was very very yummy. I only had it during the cake cutting and the top layers are gross (just hard cake no filling). I picked it from a book of samples they had. If you get the upgraded package, they will make any cake u want.

Wish I: Reminded them to take the table numbers down! Tasted the cake!

Negatives: Wasn’t crazy about the banquet manager-She also did not inform us that we could have a tasting or bring home samples of cake choices. FM me for more details. Oh, okay so this kinda stinks- The bridal suite is so far away! It’s on the lower level. But, the regular bathroom is right there so no big deal—its just nice to have the suite closer for privacy. AND they let us smoke in the bridal suite so it was kind of annoying to have to go downstairs. —it didn’t make a difference except for my make-up touch ups b/c I did not have to use the restroom once all night!! Amazing, right???! (I only smoke when I’m drinking so it wasn’t that many trips) .
They also left the table numbers on the table. They also messed up w/my table mints. I had this brilliant idea that one person at each table would get a few blue mints in their tin and that person would win the centerpiece. Well, Nicky came over and was like, “Uhh, no one has blue mints!” Ugh. I kinda figured it was too much. BUT Nicky did the passing of the dollar with a twist. When the music stopper whoever held the dollar thought they won, but then he gave it to the shortest person at the table. Everyone got a kick out of it. Ummm that’s it!!!!


To all of the Russo’s Brides: I am soooo excited for u!!! You really really picked an amazing hall!! Trust me!!!! There will be negatives, I’m sure, but of course, nothing will ever be absolutely perfect. AND look at mine: they are sooooo minute and is nothing that anyone but the Bride would notice. Almost not worth mentioning in comparison to all the great things, but I figure maybe others can learn from it.

MAKEUP: SUZANNE PAPPAS: A++++++

I was actually referred to Suzanne from a hair vendor on this site. She is fabulous!!! She works for I think it was channel five news and has just broken into the wedding business. She is super sweet, easygoing and very talented. I highly receommend her. She did our moms and my Maid of Honor as well, with plenty of time to spare to touch up my cousin’s make-up. FM me if u want more info.

Negatives: None

HAIR: A++++++++

My hairstylist that I have been going to since college did my hair-she works at a local Ambiance and I would not have even thought of putting my hair in anyone else’s hands! She put 4 layers of extensions in my hair to give it more body and did a great job! She did my mom’s hair, two bridesmaids and my Maid of Honor. Feel free to FM me for more details.

Wish I: Noticed my baby hair was not slicked back. I didn’t notice it until like the twentieth time after looking at my proofs-but it bothered me.

CLASSIE SOUNDS: A+

Wow, did Nicky (Emcee) get the party going! He was awesome. Everyone was dancing all night long-We had such a great time. We had a percussionist which was sooooooooo amazing. Simply phenomenal. The added live element was indescribable. Everyone absolutely loved it!
Wish I: Assigned someone to make sure certain songs on my list were played. I really really wanted a certain song played and it ended up being the last song, b/c I guess they forgot???? Nicky came around once or twice to ask if everything was okay-but of course I had so many things going on!! Not the end of the world though. I think u have to give DJ’S a certain amount of freedom b/c they have to go with the crowd. They also totally stayed away from my do-not-play list!

FLOWER MICHELE: B+
John is simply awesome. We loved working with him. However, on the day of, things got off to a rocky start. We received the wrong mother’s boutonnière which actually broke my calmness! Luckily, I noticed pretty quickly and they had enough time to fix it.
I only had 6 pew decorations and I was supposed to have 10. Also, the staff (John was not there) forgot to decorate my card box, which was really upsetting. Also, I thought the centerpieces were a bit of a mess. Again, things only I would most likely notice and did not in any way ruin the reception. I was disappointed, but it’s a growing business like every other, and everyone and everything will never be “perfect”.


The Bo-k’s and the cake were absolutely gorgeous and exactly what I wanted!

IMAGINE STUDIOS: A+++++++

I’m photo obsessed, so this was a long journey. However, I knew that I wanted Imagine from the beginning; I just felt that since I had the time, I should see what was out there. I’ll let Lia’s work speak for itself! My second choice would have probably been PERCEPTIONS. Although, when I went for the meeting, I didn’t meet w/Anthony Vasquez (sp?) which completely turned me off. He actually called me and is super sweet—told me I was in very good hands w/Lia. I thought that was very professional and he does amazing work.
Nelson is a sweetheart. I’ll have to update when I get the edited video.


Wish I: Asked Lia to look out for that good old double chin and weird neck twisting—it ruined a lot of pics for me. I would also recommend two photographers. Not that Lia did not do anything short of a great job, but she is human and naturally couldn’t get every shot (i.e. a shot of me walking down the aisle from the back of the church if she has to get a front shot!). BTW, Imagine offers the option of 2 photographers. Also, I would do a must take list. I don’t have any pics of my bustle; the front of the Royals, etc.

PLACECARDS: A

I got place cards at Michaels and My MIL and aunt put the Jordan Almonds in the flowers and attached the place cards. Lots of time and effort went into those. If you’re thinking about doing the Jordan almond flowers, I would definitely do them way in advance!

INVITATIONS BY DAWN A

Matchbooks. Got a great deal and they arrived in great condition! I wouldn’t recommend getting them in black—my friend did and they got naturally creased and it showed up badly.

CARD BOX: A+++++++++++++++++

My FIL put this together for us so I guess a review wouldn’t help anyone-but I had to point it out b/c the staff at Russo’s were dumbfounded. They had never seen one before!!!!????. They were taking pics and asking my FIL if they could call him!! It was so funny. In short, it was a big hit and everyone loved the concept. It also adds a nice touch.

WRAP WITH US: D

Oh boy. So I ordered a set of 2 espresso cups as my favor. The design was supposed to be little coffee beans with the word “espresso”. They said Cappuccino (bang bang). I called to complain and they were very nice about it and offered me 10% back. Still, while I understand, I felt it was their responsibility.

Wish I: Opened one of the F***** boxes!!!!!!!

ROYALTY LIMOS: A+

The limos were clean and the drivers were on time and very nice and helpful at the church.

REHEARSAL DINNER, Mezzanotte Cafe: A+
Hewlett, NY

We had our own private room with bathrooms. The food was sooo good!! It was a great deal.

HONEYMOON: St. Lucian Grande: A

DETAILED REVIEW W/ PICS COMING SOON!

PICS in my album:
http://www.liweddings.com/community/album/?ID=1035 ]

Message edited 5/6/2006 9:24:46 AM.

Re: .

Um...I was getting excited for a sec

Re: My Review

Great review and your pictures were beautiful!

Re: My Review

I feel like I have been waiting forever for you review..but its finally here!!

Theresa...those pictures brought tears to my eye!

First off: I've already seen you in your dress...but all these pics that I haven't seen of you....breathtaking You looked absolutely beautiful and were stunning! The pictures were great!!

Second: We finally get a recent Russo's review!!! Theresa its always soo good to hear these things about Russos. And about that BM- you know where I stand with her It is absolutely the best place we could have ever picked and your review shows it. Even their minor mistakes were no biggie!!!

Third: Yay for Nick and Classie Sounds! I remember e mailing you about them back in the day. I am soo happy they were great...we are getting the percussion too!!!

Theresa your day looked and sounds absolutely perfect!! I am soo happy for you and that you had such a fabulous day.

May your marriage me blessed forever and may you have lots of bambinos

And Now I have to think of something else to bug you about!!

Congratulations Reesa..to you and your DH

Re: My Review

Great review....looks & sounds like a wonderful day. Your dress turned out gorgeous! I love the pics in the park(?) what an awesome fall day

Re: My Review

Congrats Theresa!!! You looked stunning!! and THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for the Russo's review!!!

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You looked absolutely beautiful. Aside from the little mishaps that you noticed, it sounds to me like you had a grand day. Congrats on your marriage, and much happiness to you both!! God Bless

Re: My Review

YAY!!! I'm so excited to finally read your review lol but most importantly i'm really happy that u had so many great things to say about Russo's. Hearing all the positive input u had makes me even more sure that all of us Russo's brides picked a wonderful place to celebrate our big day.

You were a beautiful bride and I'm so happy that you had such an amazing wedding!

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Posted by Nina

I feel like I have been waiting forever for you review..but its finally here!!

Theresa...those pictures brought tears to my eye!

First off: I've already seen you in your dress...but all these pics that I haven't seen of you....breathtaking You looked absolutely beautiful and were stunning! The pictures were great!!

Second: We finally get a recent Russo's review!!! Theresa its always soo good to hear these things about Russos. And about that BM- you know where I stand with her It is absolutely the best place we could have ever picked and your review shows it. Even their minor mistakes were no biggie!!!

Third: Yay for Nick and Classie Sounds! I remember e mailing you about them back in the day. I am soo happy they were great...we are getting the percussion too!!!

Theresa your day looked and sounds absolutely perfect!! I am soo happy for you and that you had such a fabulous day.

May your marriage me blessed forever and may you have lots of bambinos

And Now I have to think of something else to bug you about!!

Congratulations Reesa..to you and your DH

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Re: My Review

Yay Date Twin!!!!

Fab review!!!

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Great pics, you looked beautiful and I love your gown.

Message edited 4/3/2006 11:36:56 AM.

Re: My Review

Gorgeous.

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bump

Re: My Review

Great review and awesome pictures. You looked stunning!!

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Your pictures are gorgeous. You look incredibly elegant!

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CONGRATS!!

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Congrats

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What beautiful pics. I love the black and white with the flowers in color, gorgeous.'
Also love the one kissing at the doors of the church! absolutely beautiful

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lovely pics - thanks for sharing!

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Congrats!! Beautiful Pictures!! Great Review!!

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Thank you!

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Great review...congratulations!!

Edited: I have the baby hair thing...i have to make a note of that!!

Message edited 4/5/2006 5:53:36 PM.

Re: My Review

You looked stunning! Your photographer did an amazing job... the pictures are beautiful. Congratulations! I wish you and DH a lifetime of happiness!

Re: My Review

thank u!

I'm so glad I could help someone with the baby hair!!!! I wish someone would have noticed!!!

Re: My Review

Yeah, I'll have the baby hair issue too, thanks for the heads up

Hey Theresa...do they HAVE to have the table numbers up?