Emilia & David

Emilia Thurber and David D’Annunzio on June 2, 2018

Originally published in the 2019 edition of Newport Wedding Magazine.

“I found Glen Manor and after visiting we just fell in love with the venue. The gardens were perfect for family photos, and we were excited to have our ceremony with a view of the water. It had everything we could have asked for.”

It was a pitch perfect relationship right from the start for Belmont, MA., native Emilia Thurber and David D’Annunzio from Piedmont, CA. They met when David auditioned for the Swarthmore College a-cappella group where Emilia was already a member. Eight years later they tied the knot at the Glen Manor House. -JC

Rushed Engagement
David had an elaborate plan to propose, including the perfect engagement ring. But when Emilia’s grandfather’s health deteriorated, David improvised. Knowing how important family was to her, David was confident her grandfather would want to know they were getting married before he passed. With the engagement ring still in transit, David found a random ring from Emilia’s jewelry box and proposed right there in the living room.

Family First
A common theme throughout the wedding was the importance of family. Wherever possible, personal touches included family heirlooms and memories. Emilia walked down the aisle wearing shoes she designed herself and carrying a purse from her aunt. She used a handkerchief that her grandmother had carried on her wedding day. The cake topper was from the bride’s grandparents’ wedding and the head table covering was handmade by the groom’s mother.

Surprise Reading
The couple asked friends and family to participate in the ceremony by choosing a reading that they felt was the best representation of the love the couple shared. The couple asked readers to coordinate with the officiant so the readings would be a surprise. They say it was special to hear how their friends chose to recognize their love.

Where are they now?
The couple enjoyed a “minimoon” in Charleston, SC., before returning to their home in Baltimore, MD., where Emilia is in medical school at Johns Hopkins and David works as a software engineering manager.

Vendors

Bridal Gown: Camilla’s Bridal
Tuxedos/Suits: Groom: Alton Lane, Groomsmen: Menguins
Rings: Tacori
Jeweler: Smyth Jewelers
Rehearsal Dinner: Norman Bird Sanctuary, Blackstone Caterers
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Glen Manor House
Nails: Star Nails & Spa
Flowers: Studio 539 Flowers
Caterer & Cake: Blackstone Caterers
Transportation: Viking Tours of Newport
Entertainment: Main Event Weddings
Photographer: Lisa Frechette Photography
Wedding Night Stay: Marshall Slocum Inn
Guest Accommodations: Howard Johnson, Hampton Inn & Suites, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Courtyard by Marriott Newport Middletown
Linen/Décor Rental: PEAK Event Services
Post-wedding Brunch: Castle Hill Inn