Nina & Timothy

Nina Thompson & Timothy Carter on December 1, 2017

“Newport is dear to my heart; I have lived here my entire life, for a true “islander” there was no other choice! I fell in love with OceanCliff because of the amazing water view. Tim is a fisherman and the water backdrop seemed like the perfect fit.”

Originally published in the August issue of Newport Life Magazine.

Newport natives Nina Thompson and Timothy Carter first met when Nina saw a picture of “a cute fisherman” online. She struck up a conversation with him, which led to a first date. Two years later, while Nina was cooking dinner at their home, Tim pulled aside her eight-year-old son and asked for his help. They both presented Nina with a ring and a question. “It was so special that Tim had included my son in this incredible life event,” the bride gushes.  –BP

Family First

Nina lost her father and Tim lost his mother years ago, so the couple honored their parents with a remembrance table with pictures and candles at the reception. Nina’s son played another instrumental role at the ceremony as he walked his mother down the aisle to Tim’s late mother’s favorite song, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis. Nina bought her wedding ring from a craft fair at his school, and her big Italian family contributed, with her aunt and uncle crafting pastries for the celebration.

Nice and Nautical

With their shared coastal upbringing and Tim’s job, decorating with vintage nautical details only made sense. They kept mostly to black and white, including the anchor on their invitation, but they included some gold, stamping the favors with their wedding date and a gold anchor. They also used an old map of Narragansett Bay for the seating chart.

Winter Wonderland

Even without snow, lights set the cozy mood and the bride and her bridesmaids kept warm in fur shrugs. The couple tied the knot in front of a beautifully lit Christmas tree display overlooking the water. Their three-tiered chocolate cake was decorated with winter berries and fruit, and the guests enjoyed Nina’s favorite winter drink, Dark ‘n Stormy, after the ceremony.

Where Are They Now?

The Elvis fans honeymooned in Memphis, Tennessee, and visited Graceland. They returned home to Newport, where Nina works as a preschool teacher at Bloom in Middletown and Tim is a trap fisherman at Tallman and Mack in Little Compton.

Featured Vendors

Bridal Gown: David’s Bridal

Suits: Joseph A. Bank

Rings: Kay Jewelers

Rehearsal Dinner: Salvation Cafe

Ceremony & Reception Venue, Caterer, Accommodations, Linens: OceanCliff

Hair & Makeup: Natural Creations

Nails: Studio Nailz

Flowers: Sarah Rodgers Florals

Cake: Isis Cakes

Officiant: Heavenly Weddings RI

Ceremony Music & Reception Entertainment: DJ Nook

Photographer: Maaike Bernstrom Photography

Photo Booth: Photo Booth Planet

Post-Wedding Brunch: The Atlantic Grille

Wedding Favors: Star Street Party Co.