Though Allyson Fernandez and James Blauvelt had considered taking a road trip through Yellowstone National Park in the spring of 2017, they didn’t get the chance; however, they did have plans for a five-week trip through Europe planned for August of the same year. “We love to travel!” shares Allyson, who suspected her beau would propose in Europe. However, James had planned a surprise trip in Jackson Hole, Wyoming in June. On the evening of their arrival, James asked Allyson to be his wife during a private dinner with the Grand Teton Mountains in the background, and she said yes.

Once they arrived back home from their summer travels, the pair began planning their nuptials with Julie Savage Parekh of Strawberry Milk Events. Living in New York City, the affianced couple wanted to honor their love for the “Big Apple” throughout their fête. For the ceremony, they selected the gorgeous St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which the groom grew up visiting; and for the reception they chose the stunning New York Public Library down the block from where they reside.

To honor the groom’s parents, who both passed away after long battles with cancer, guests received their seating cards tied to a white rose and were asked to place the flower in a reflecting pool in their memory. The décor of the day continued the theme of white throughout the reception space, with plenty of gold accents to add warmth to the room. Modern tables were surrounded by gilt chairs and decorated with high and low arrangements of creamy blooms and bullion-hued details. An impressive floral ceiling surrounding the dome in the library was the pièce de résistance of the romantic evening.

Following a delectable seasonal menu, loved ones enjoyed slices of a six-layer wedding confection featured groupings of sugar flowers, including roses, peonies, and gold leaves inspired by the bride’s gown. Guests’ palates were tantalized with an array of options, such as vanilla and chocolate cake with cinnamon cappuccino, salted caramel, or Nutella fillings. In lieu of favors, donations were made to the couple’s JDJ Charitable Foundation.

Friends and family celebrated until 1AM on the stunning golden dance floor, before everyone continued the revelry at an after-party that lasted until the break of dawn. “Honestly, the only thing I wish I could change is slowing down the day… it truly does go so fast!” shares Allyson. “I would love to go back to the dance floor and just not leave!