Eliza & Joseph

Eliza Foresti and Joseph Paradis on September 23, 2017

Originally published in the 2019 edition of Newport Wedding Magazine

“When we saw Regatta Place, from the market lights strung on the outside patio, to the billowing tent ceiling, to the hardwood floors on the dock, to the most beautiful sunset we had ever seen, we were sold.”

Even 500 miles apart, Rhode Islander Eliza Foresti and Massachusetts native Joseph Paradis planned the Newport wedding of their dreams. After being introduced through mutual friends, the pair dated for two years before Joe, thanks to Eliza’s subtle hints, found the perfect ring. On an early July evening under a setting sun, Eliza accepted Joe’s offer of forever. Although she moved to Virginia to attend grad school after their engagement, Eliza kept her focus. “Whether we were together, or if we were miles apart, every time a large decision needed to be made for the wedding, we planned a sushi date,” says the bride.  -NH

Simple and Special
Neither extravagant nor minimal, Eliza and Joe found themselves somewhere in the middle, letting their personalities shine through with a theme of “simple and special.” Their color scheme of ivory, blush and gold showcased the perfect portion of class and balanced out well with warm hints of rust.

His and Hers
To fully satisfy the couples’ sweet tooth, each had their own signature cupcake flavor. Eliza indulged in white cupcakes with lemon curd filling, while Joe opted for carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. A small carrot cake was displayed, which was the perfect cake-cutting photo-op.

Not-So-Basic Bridesmaids
Eliza wanted her bridesmaids to wear affordable dresses they could use again for future events and found the perfect dresses for her three ladies, with a special glittery dress for her maid of honor. “I wanted her to stand out a little bit, and some glitter fit her personality,” she says of the dress. Eliza proved you don’t need an expensive bridesmaid dress to achieve an elegant feel, and that a little diversity in color and texture offers a unique, personalized touch.

Where are they now?
Eliza and Joe honeymooned through Europe. They now reside in Cumberland, RI where Joe is an engineer and Eliza works at the Wheeler School.

Vendors:
Bridal Gown: Alexandra’s Bridal Boutique
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Francesca’s Collections
Tuxedos/Suits: Vitale’s Men’s Clothing and Tailoring
Rings: Engagement Ring: Zales, Ephraim Doumato Jewelers, Long’s Jewelers
Rehearsal Dinner: George’s of Galilee
Ceremony Venue: Saint Francis of Assisi
Reception Venue: The Regatta Place
Hair & Makeup: Salon JF3
Flowers: Studio 539
Caterer: The Regatta Place
Cake: Awesome Sweets
Transportation: Rockstar Limo
Reception Entertainment: Matty B Entertainment
Photographer: Samantha Robshaw Photography
Wedding Night Stay: The Gilded Hotel