Kimberly & John

Kimberly LaFontaine and John Ficaro on August 24, 2017

Originally published in the 2019 edition of Newport Wedding Magazine

“Newport offered the Gilded-Age elegance we both loved. We incorporated that love in the design of our wedding venue, choosing soft shades of gold, ivory and blush with a splash of coral.”

Love was in the air one June night on the porch of 41 North in Newport. While catching a bite to eat after a long day of sailing, John Ficaro of Connecticut wasn’t looking for love. But he couldn’t help noticing the petite blonde sitting next to him, Rhode Island native Kimberly LaFontaine. The two started talking, and the attraction was immediate as they bonded over the ocean, history, and stories about their sons. “It didn’t take long for both of us to realize how much in common we both had,” says John. “Sailing, the ocean, history, old houses, colonial architecture, and a fondness of Newport and all that it offers.” A year and a half later, the couple was on vacation in the Virgin Islands when John proposed in a candlelit restaurant. – NH

Seizing the Sea
OceanCliff offered a great location and gorgeous views. The sea and the couple’s love of sailing was part of what drew them together in the beginning, so naturally it featured heavily in their wedding. They decorated with blue and white Chinese porcelain pottery, a tribute to Newport’s heritage of seafaring trade and a nod to their shared love of history.

All of Newport
The couple took photographs at Ochre Court and the Elms to get a taste of old-world charm before arriving at OceanCliff, where the venue matched the gold, ivory, blush, and coral decor. Wedding attendees relaxed enjoying the panoramic water views while sipping on the couple’s signature cocktail “The Bellevue.”

“F”un with Monograms
To celebrate her new last name, Kimberly incorporated the initial “F” into anything she could personalize. The Irish linen napkins were monogrammed with a bold capital letter, cookies were decorated to match, and the invitations featured a monogrammed wax seal. The ladies powder room was decorated with large gold monogrammed initial placards and hand towels.

Where are they now?
The couple honeymooned in London and Paris, then returned to their homes in Exeter, RI, and Weatogue, CT, where Kimberly runs her business, LaFontaine Interior Designs, and John owns Union Street Tavern Restaurant and serves as the Regional VP Sales of Cigna Healthcare.

Vendors

Bridal Gown & Bridesmaids’ Dresses: David’s Bridal

Groomsmen’s Tuxedos: Men’s Warehouse

Engagement Rings: Baxter’s Fine Jewelry

Wedding Bands: Little Switzerland

Invitations: New England Invitations

Rehearsal Dinner, Ceremony & Reception Venue: OceanCliff

Hair: Salon Nuovo

Nails: Naturally Nails

Flowers: Le’s Isle Rose

Caterer & Brunch: OceanCliff

Cake: Pink Box Desserts

Officiant: Fr. David Kerrigan

Bridal Party Transportation: Viking Tours

Ceremony Music: Allegro Chamber Players

Reception entertainment: Not For Nuthin

Photographer: Bénédicte Verley Photography

Planner:  PDR Events

Linen/Décor Rental: Peak Event Services