Allison & Zachary

Allison McDonald & Zachary Fleet on September 7, 2018

By Tracie Seed / Published in Newport Wedding 2020

One thing that Rhode Island natives Allison McDonald and Zachary Fleet have in common is the gift of gab. “From the moment we met, we haven’t stopped talking,” says Allison, who was introduced to Zachary by his sister. “We had an instant connection and have been inseparable since.” When it came time to pop the question, Zachary surprised Allison with a trip to Stowe, Vermont. “He planned every single detail — skiing and shopping during the day, creating a special playlist for the actual proposal with ‘our’ songs, and planning a romantic dinner,” Allison says.

“We wanted our wedding to be by the water. What better water views than Castle Hill?”

Allie + Gregg = True Love

At the reception, the couple cut into a small gold leaf–bespeckled cake, but their true love was reserved for other sweet choices. “Zach’s absolute favorite cake is Death by Chocolate from Gregg’s,” says the bride. “We served it to all our guests.” For favors, guests received an Allie’s Donut labelled “DONUT MIND IF I DO.”

Two Wedding Tents and a Bar

Prior to dinner and dancing to their song, Tangled Up in You by Aaron Lewis, the couple held a cocktail reception in a tent separate from the main venue. It was furnished with a beautiful lounge area and included the bar, to keep the main celebration area from getting too crowded.

It’s Always Sunny at Castle Hill

“We had a spot of rain right before walking down the aisle. I saw the umbrellas pop up and thought we were doomed,” recalls the bride. “But the sun burst out from behind the clouds just as Zach and I were walking down the aisle after being married. By chance, our recessional music was Here Comes the Sun!”

Where Are They Now?

After a honeymoon in Florence, Rome and Ravello, Italy, the couple returned home to Coventry, Rhode Island, where Allison is an attorney and Zachary is a technology operations manager.

Vendors

Photographer: Plugovoy Photography
Venue, Caterer & Wedding night stay: Castle Hill Inn
Bridal Gown: Alexandra’s Bridal Boutique
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: The Bridal Garden
Suits: Jos. A. Banks
Hair & Makeup: Allison Barbera Beauty
Flowers: Flowers by Semia
Planner: PDR Events
Invitations: Champagne and Ink
Rings: Providence Diamond
Nails: Star Nails & Spa
Cake/Dessert: Gregg’s Restaurant; Ellie’s
Transportation: Viking Tours of Newport
Ceremony Music: Soul of Boston
Videographer: StopGoLove
Guest Accommodations: The Newport Lofts
Linen/Décor Rental: PEAK Event Services; Exquisite Events
Post-wedding brunch: La Forge Casino Restaurant
Rehearsal Dinner: New York Yacht Club
Officiants: Rev. Charlie Cavalconte; Rabbi Ethan Adler