Jen Poyant & Nick Rada
Louis Valentino Jr. Park and Pier, and Botanica
September 6, 2009
Jen and Nick’s relationship is a testament to the belief that absence makes the heart grow fonder. “We had our first proper date the day before Jen flew to Japan for a job,” recalls Nick. Then nearly a year passed—filled with e-mails, and one trip abroad for Nick—before the two finally reunited in Red Hook, where they now live and also held their wedding. “We wanted it to be intimate and beautiful, and we knew we could pull that off here,” says Jen. On the big day, the groom got ready at home, while the bride and her entourage used the apartment of her friend Sarah Ryhanen, of Saipua, who also did the flowers. Then Nick and Jen met on the street, did a quick shot of tequila (they were told it was good luck), and walked down the block to Valentino Park. Their friends played a version of “Here Comes the Bride” on guitar, accordion, and triangle, and the couple exchanged vows under a suspended wreath. The reception took place a few steps away at local favorite Botanica, where guests ate family-style braised short ribs and pumpkin ravioli. “We sent out an e-mail that morning inviting a bunch of people to come out afterward,” Jen recalls. “And they totally did!”
As told to Thessaly La Force.
The Details
Bride’s Gown: Lela Rose (from the Bridal Garden)
Groom’s Shoes: Hugo Boss
Groom’s Suit: H&M
Veil: Brenda’s Bridal Veils (from Etsy)
Cake: Jenna John
Flowers: Saipua
Jen Poyant & Nick RadaPhotographs by Robert Sukrachand
“We knew we wanted the artichokes, but we pretty much told Sarah [of Saipua], “Do what you wanna do.’”
“Botanica has dozens of high-end old-school cocktails. One of our specialty drinks was the Hemingway, which has fresh muddled rosemary, St. Germain, vodka, and grapefruit juice.”
N: “We came down the aisle at the same time. It didn’t work very well. Everyone just wanted to see Jen.”
J: “Our officiant made fun of us for kissing twice. He said, “Go back for more!’”
