Mallory & Michael

“Mallory grew up on an island and lives for the ocean. Having our wedding in Newport was an easy choice. It felt special and it felt like home.”

Mallory Kowal & Michael Kropman on October 7, 2016.

Originally published in the Jan/Feb 2018 issue of Newport Life Magazine.

After several attempts at Match.com dates, Jamestown native Mallory Kowal received a “wink” from Michael Kropman from Harrisville, Rhode Island. After looking at his photo, she realized he was the same man her friend tried to set her up with months earlier. This time she decided to give it a chance. The pair met for their first date at a restaurant in Providence and hit it off over a wide selection of beer and easy conversation. Almost two years later, on July 14, 2015, Mike set up a private yoga class at Mallory’s favorite yoga studio with the help of her preferred instructor. She didn’t see it coming when she rose from Savasana, resting pose, and opened her eyes to Mike at the edge of her mat on one knee with a ring.

Classic & classy

Wanting to keep their wedding classy yet comfortable, the couple and their guests gathered at Newport Vineyards for a “picturesque and elegant, but not stuffy and ritzy” night to remember. They set a vineyard and shabby chic theme, enjoyed a classic three-tiered buttercream cake with rustic finish and had their first dance to “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King.

It’s the little things

To calm the nerves of walking down the aisle, Mallory handwrote Mike a card. On their wedding day, she hid it in his socks so that he would find it and read it when he was getting ready as a comforting reminder of her love.

Pops of color

With their shabby chic theme, they included a sage, blush and ivory color scheme. Pink flowers stood out in the centerpieces, bouquets and on the wedding cake. The bridesmaids’ Jim Hjelm-Haley Paige Collection dresses in sage brought color to the classic night.

Where are they now?

The couple spent their honeymoon relaxing in Costa Rica for a week. They returned home to Warwick, RI where Mallory is a certified child life specialist at Hasbro Children’s Hospital and Mike is a teacher at Burrillville High School.

Featured Vendors:

Bridal Gown and Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Alexandra’s Bridal

Tuxedos/Suits: Carl Anthony

Rings: Baxter’s Fine Jewelry

Rehearsal Dinner: Salvation Café

Ceremony and Reception Venue: Newport Vineyards

Hair and Makeup: Petal Blush Beauty

Caterer and Cake: Russell Morin

Transportation: Newport Travel Tours

Photographer: Sabrina Scolari Photography

Videographer: Chris & Amanda Photography

Wedding Night Stay: Homewood Suites

Guest Accommodations: Residence Inn

Linen/Décor Rental: Newport Tent