Marissa & Kyle

Marissa Giammarco & Kyle Sawaia on May 12, 2018

Originally published in the May/June 2019 edition of Newport Life magazine.

By Jake Cathers

A genuine rock ’n’ roll love affair became a dream wedding for Marissa Giammarco and Kyle Sawaia. Kyle’s drumming skills caught the eye of one of Marissa’s bandmates and he was invited to join their Providence band when they needed a new percussionist. “We fell in love with each other’s creativity and passion for the arts,” says Marissa. After years of making music together, Kyle proposed on Christmas Eve, Marissa’s favorite day of the year. Playing a game of “hot and cold,” Kyle had Marissa search for a special ornament hidden on the Christmas tree. When she discovered the shining diamond hanging from a branch, Kyle dropped to one knee with their daughter by his side and asked her to be his wife.

“Kyle and I truly feel that the beauty and elegance of Newport is a representation of our love. It has always been a special place for us.”

NON-TRADITIONALIST

Marissa has always considered herself a nontraditionalist, as evidenced by many milestones in her life. She knew her wedding gown would be no different. After falling in love with designer Hayley Paige’s dresses, she found the perfect style in the Chandon Gown, which she chose in a beautiful blush pink. The layers of tulle and embedded silver sparkles helped make her feel like a princess,
even if the dress wasn’t white. To complete the look, she included the matching cathedral veil.

MATCHING ELEGANCE

Belle Mer offers a backdrop so visually powerful, the couple wanted to have decor that complemented the setting rather than competing with it. They opted for a simple color scheme of mostly white and blush pink that didn’t overshadow the stunning view and elegant venue. The rose-colored details helped coordinate with Marissa’s gown, with the table settings blending in naturally. The DJ provided bold pink up-lighting that lit the entire room and was visible from outside, balancing that with softer lighting throughout the reception. The bride and groom relaxed on their white loveseat, which was designed like a throne, helping them feel like royalty throughout the evening.

’90s STYLE

For their first dance, the couple chose “Kiss from a Rose” by Seal. The song gained notoriety in the film Batman Forever, which brought the crowd back to the ’90s and reminded Marissa and Kyle of fantasy, passion and strength.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

The couple enjoyed a relaxing trip to Nassau, the Bahamas, before returning home to Rhode Island, where Marissa works in the television and film industry as a makeup professional, and Kyle works as a programmer and recording engineer.

Featured Vendors

Rehearsal dinner: The Red Parrot
Hair: Frank Antonio Hair & Makeup
Flowers: Golden Gate Studios
Photographer: Mel Colvin Photography
Ceremony, Reception, Cake: Belle Mer
Wedding Planner: Ashly Whalen  Longwood Venues
Wedding Night Stay: The Newport Lofts
DJ: Elite Entertainment
Videographer: Mike Picard Motion Pictures