Lindsay and Sam’s wedding at Peconic Bay Yacht Club was a radiant coastal affair — a seamless blend of timeless elegance and easy summer joy. Guests were greeted by a vintage flower truck before gathering on the lawn for a ceremony framed by sweeping bay views. Lindsay wore a sleek Kyha Studios gown paired with a petal-adorned veil, surrounded by her bridesmaids in champagne satin slips holding petite wildflower bouquets.
After an oyster-filled cocktail hour overlooking the marina, guests dined in a light-filled reception space styled with cheerful, meadow-inspired florals by Hometown Flower Co. Every detail — from the wildflower installations to the soft watercolor stationery — reflected the couple’s joyful, sunlit spirit and love of the coast.
Captured by Alessandra Parks Photography, this Long Island celebration exuded the kind of effortless romance that only childhood sweethearts can bring to life.
“Love isn’t perfect or effortless — it takes time, patience, forgiveness, and the choice to wake up each morning and choose each other again and again.”
How did you two meet? What were your first impressions of one another?
Sam and I met in middle school. We hung out in the same group of friends throughout middle and high school. Some of our friends and even our teachers actually set us up! I found out from Sam’s best friend that he liked me during a Sweet Sixteen party — haha!
We both shared a love of sports, watched each other commit to Division 1 college teams, and dated throughout college. It was hard, but we made it work and cherished every moment we were able to spend together.
Sam was the kid in high school that you knew was going somewhere in life — focused, driven, and passionate about everything he did. He also happens to be hilarious! Deep down, even in high school, we knew it would end up being “us” forever.
Tell us a funny story relating to your wedding day or relationship!
Our wedding day had little details devoted to our beloved mini Australian Shepherd, Asher. Unfortunately, he couldn’t attend because he’s a very anxious pup, but he was there in spirit — on our matchbooks, a signature drink was named after him, and he somehow made it into every speech!
Another funny moment was when Sam was so nervous during the ceremony that he forgot to “take me” from my parents at the end of the aisle! My mom had to say, “Uh, Sam… come grab your wife!”
And my mom delivered an amazing speech about the time Sam got stranded in Greenport and missed the last ferry back to Shelter Island. We had a whole search crew at the bar, but no Sam! His parents had to drive two hours to get him, and the next day when he came back, my entire family gave him a standing ovation. It’s a story we still laugh about every time we visit Claudio’s!
Describe a hurdle you had to overcome in your relationship or during wedding planning.
Leaving high school as sweethearts definitely put pressure on us. We left for college ready to commit to each other, but it wasn’t easy. I often visited him at Columbia University to watch his wrestling matches while I was a D1 lacrosse player on Long Island.
We made it through college, first jobs, new careers, my master’s program, COVID, multiple apartment moves in NYC, and managing our mini Aussie with his behavioral quirks! Through it all, we’ve continued to push each other to grow — in our careers, our personal lives, and our love.
Any special ways you incorporated your family or family history into your wedding day?
One of my favorite moments was a surprise dance for my grandparents. The Thursday before our wedding was their 60th anniversary, so right after our first dance, we invited them to join us and danced to their wedding song. It was a complete surprise, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room!
Sam also has two wonderful grandmothers and no grandfathers, so we wanted to give them a special role — they became our “flower grandmas!” Watching them walk down the aisle tossing petals was one of the most joyful and heartwarming parts of our day.
What part of your wedding day was most important to you?
Aside from the special grandparent dance, my favorite part was getting ready with my mom, mother-in-law, grandmas, sister, and bridesmaids. We blasted Beyoncé, laughed, and soaked in every moment. My bridesmaids gifted me a Letters to the Bride book, each filled with handwritten notes — reading them before walking down the aisle was incredibly emotional and meaningful.
Another favorite moment was having my childhood best friend’s dad — a judge — officiate our ceremony. He’s watched me grow up, coached my sports teams, and has always been such a positive presence in my life. He made the ceremony personal, fun, and heartfelt — even ending it with, “Lindsay, you may kiss your groom!”
What is the best thing you’ve learned from one another?
From Sam, I’ve learned to stop worrying about the small things — to live in the moment and be more present. As a teacher, I’m always planning ahead, so his calm perspective balances me perfectly.
From me, Sam says he’s learned how to be a good partner — to tackle challenges together and communicate, even when it’s hard.
What is your favorite thing about each other?
Lindsay: My favorite thing about Sam is his big personality. He lights up every room he walks into and can talk to absolutely anyone.
Sam: My favorite thing about Lindsay is her passion for teaching and the joy she radiates when talking about her students. I’m so proud of her.
What was your favorite part about planning your wedding?
We loved working with our incredible vendors! Each one truly understood our vision and brought it to life — from the floral meadow arrangements to our custom invitation suite.
Jaclyn at Hometown Flower Co. made my wildflower wedding dreams come true, and Sydney from Crane and Palette designed the most stunning paper goods and watercolor suite. Every detail, from the oyster bar to the flower truck, was pure perfection.
If you had one piece of advice for other couples, what would it be?
Enjoy the little moments together. Take it all in — the process, the planning, and the anticipation. It can feel overwhelming at times, but every step becomes part of your story. Even our first venue tour felt magical because we were experiencing it together.
What is the most honest thing you can say about love?
Love is both beautiful and hard. It’s not perfect or effortless. It takes patience, forgiveness, and the choice to wake up every day and choose each other again and again.
Photographer: Alessandra Parks Photography / @alessandraparksphoto
Planner: Deborah Minarik Events / @deborahminarikevents
Videographer: Nato Tuke / @weddingsbynato
Florist: Hometown Flower Co. / @hometownflowerco
Hair: Elite Beauty Bridal / @elitebridalbeauty
Dress Designer + Bridal Store: Kyha Studios / @kyhastudios
Bridesmaids Gowns: Shona Joy / @shonajoy
DJ/Band: Jarrell Entertainment / @jarrellentertainment
Bakery: Leannes Cakes / @leannescakes
Invitations: Crane and Palette / @craneandpalette
Spray Tan: Glow by Gaya LIC / @glowbygaya
Catering: Robbins Wolfe / @robbins_wolfe
Violinist: Chris Tedesco / @ceeteetrumpet
Rentals: AYS Tents / @ayspartyrentals
Publisher at The White Wren and Bajan Wed, Award Winning Photography + Videographer at Live View Studios, Dad, 80s music lover, crunchy health advocate
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