A Timeless and Ethereal Wedding in NYC with Calla Lilies and White Florals
Andrea and Kenny Sebastianelli’s love story began at Fordham University's Rose Hill campus in the Bronx, though it unfolded slowly over time. Kenny first spotted Andrea at Mugz, a local dive bar, claiming it was love at first sight—a moment Andrea laughs to note she doesn’t remember.
A year later at Blue Goose Tavern, Andrea recalls seeing him for the first time and feeling that there was something special about him. They didn’t officially start dating until years later, but those early sparks set the stage for a love story meant to last.
A Full Circle Proposal
Kenny’s proposal brought their story full circle. He chose the exact location of their first date: Grand Banks in Tribeca, a restaurant on a boat. On that very first date, Kenny’s wallet and phone had fallen into the river, yet he still managed to pay for dinner—a memory that Andrea giggles about now, and one that revealed Kenny’s calm and steady nature.
She expected him to get upset at this, but he didn't stop smiling to still be in her presence. Years later, in January 2023, he proposed in that same place, as a full circle romantic moment.
"Calla lilies and white florals filled this NYC wedding at the Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers, creating a timeless and ethereal ambiance."
Timeless and Ethereal
The wedding planning process was challenging, but also very fun as Andrea loves to be creative. Andrea, with Kenny by her side, carefully selected each element and vendor, from the florist Fleurish to the amazing photographer Melannie Morfa Studio. Three months before the big day, they partnered with Vision Events Co., led by a fellow Fordham alum, whose team coordinated seamlessly and ensured that every detail came together perfectly.
When the wedding day arrived, it unfolded like a dream. Andrea describes walking into St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church in Tribeca as though she were “walking into the gates of heaven.” The church, perfectly white and filled with light, was adorned with stunning florals by Fleurish, New York—white calla lilies, hydrangeas, and delicate blooms arranged in tall glass vases. The result was timeless and ethereal, with an elegance that reflected the couple’s vision.
The number 8, which is also commonly looked at as the infinity symbol, carried special meaning throughout the day. Andrea and Kenny’s August 17th wedding date (8/17/24) tied into the forever sign with August, the eighth month, 1+7 as the wedding date equaling 8, and 2x4 as the wedding year also equaling 8.
That symbolism appeared again unexpectedly when Kenny needed a small stitch above his eyebrow the night before the rehearsal dinner. He unexpectedly got hit by a car riding a city bike and, although he was mostly safe, he did have a cut in the shape of the infinity symbol above his eyebrow. Finally, the bride and groom stayed on the eighth floor of the Smyth Hotel. This was all a humorous and poignant reminder that their story was truly written in the stars.
The reception carried the same energy of joy and intention. Fleurish transformed the venue with breathtaking arrangements, while the Lighthouse team crafted an unforgettable menu. A Sinatra singer named Charlie Romo added a nostalgic nod to their Italian heritage during the cocktail hour, Element Music brought the amazing music and energy during the reception, and the night ended in true Fordham fashion with slices from Howl at the Moon Pizza—another full-circle moment linking the couple’s past to their present.
An Italian Honeymoon
The newlyweds’ Italian honeymoon took them to Sicily, Umbria, and Lake Como. Sicily was filled with stunning seafood and the charm of Hotel San Andrea; Umbria was deeply meaningful, as Kenny connected with his family roots; and Lake Como offered serene beauty to close out their travels. Each stop carried its own magic, making the honeymoon as memorable as the wedding itself.
Looking back, Andrea and Kenny remember most the profound sense of presence they felt. Rather than being swept away by the busyness of the day, they were able to truly soak up each moment—from the vows to the laughter, the dancing to the quiet glances. It wasn’t just a celebration of love, but of gratitude, family, and the promise of forever.
Their advice to future couples? “Be present, be grateful, and don’t sweat the small stuff. If you won’t remember it in five years, it isn’t worth stressing about. In the end, it’s the love and the memories that last forever.”
WEDDING TALENT
Location: The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers, New York, NY; Ceremony Location: Saint Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, New York, NY; Wedding Coordination: Vision Events Co.; Floral Design: Fleurish NYC; Invitations: Jaynee’s Party; Entertainment: Element Music – Phoenix Band, Charlie Romo Cocktail Singer; Wedding Dress: Verdin Bridal; Bridal Salon: Bergdorf Goodman Bridal Salon; Reception Dress: Vivienne Westwood; Hair: Hair Nancism; Makeup: Makeup by Cara; Groom’s Attire: Custom Men’s Tailors; Groom’s Watch: Rolex; Engagement Ring: Marissa Perry; Cinematography: We Cinema; Photography: Melannie Morfa Studio