Set against the cerulean waters and sun-kissed shores of St. Barth, Laura and Will’s wedding at Le Toiny was a seamless blend of relaxed island luxury and timeless romance. The couple exchanged vows at St. Bartholomew’s Anglican Church, surrounded by soft sea breezes and the scent of tropical blooms. From Laura’s minimalist Enzoani gown to Will’s effortlessly cool linen suit, every detail embodied understated elegance—with a joyful, jet-set spirit unique to St. Barth.
Their love story began in the most modern way—on a dating app during lockdown—but quickly unfolded into something timeless. After discovering they lived just a few floors apart in the same Manhattan building, they knew fate had stepped in. Their connection deepened with late-night conversations and chance coincidences that made their story feel like destiny.
The wedding day reflected that same serendipity and warmth. Intimate moments of preparation gave way to laughter and sunlight-filled portraits, as guests celebrated the couple with a week-long island escape that felt more like a family reunion than a formality. From the sounds of a live violinist echoing through the stone church to their sunset portraits along the coast, the day was a poetic ode to connection, simplicity, and everyday love.
“Love is not the grand gestures, but the thousand quiet ways we show up for one another every day.”
How did you two meet? What were your first impressions of one another?
We first met in the most 2020 way possible—on a dating app during lockdown—but the real surprise was discovering that we actually lived in the same downtown Manhattan building, even in the same apartment line, just a few floors apart. A few nights before our scheduled first date, Will called me, and we talked for more than four hours straight. By the time we hung up, I knew I had found something extraordinary. When we met in person, conversation flowed effortlessly—it felt as though we were picking up a conversation we’d started lifetimes ago. It was as if the universe had been conspiring in our favor all along.
When I first met Laura, our date started with a two-hour car ride to a vineyard—peak COVID, so we wanted something outdoors. Somewhere along the way, I couldn’t tell if she actually liked me or was secretly taking mental notes against me. She’s naturally curious—asks sharp questions, listens closely, and has a way of making you want to keep talking. Being Irish, she’s got that storytelling thing in her bones—quick, witty, and charming even when she’s giving me a hard time.
Tell us a funny story relating to your wedding day or relationship!
During our church rehearsal, Will completely blanked when practicing his vows. The priest prompted him for his response, and he stood there in silence until I laughed and said, “It’s literally your name: I WILL.” The whole room burst out laughing, and it instantly broke the tension. That moment made everything feel lighter and reminded us not to take things too seriously—it set the perfect tone for the next day.
Describe a hurdle you had to overcome in your relationship or during your wedding planning.
Planning a destination wedding without a planner meant we handled every detail ourselves—countless Zoom calls, WhatsApp messages, and spreadsheets later, it all came together beautifully. Coordinating from New York to St. Barths had its challenges, but our vendors were phenomenal. The staff at St. Bartholomew’s Church, Le Toiny Hotel, and our florist went above and beyond.
One of my favorite decisions was hiring my hairstylist Bri for her “wedding day assist package.” She provided a full event timeline that became a lifesaver—every detail from start times to transitions was covered. It made the entire weekend so much more seamless and stress-free.
Any special ways you incorporated your family or family history into your wedding day?
The night before our wedding, my mom, sister, and sister-in-law gifted me my “something” items, including a locket with photos of each of my grandmothers—women I was very close to growing up. I pinned it to my bouquet, so they could walk with me down the aisle.
We also included family members in the ceremony through prayers and readings and incorporated both Irish and American music throughout. Even our cocktails were personal—named after special places from our lives, like the “Martingale Margarita” and the “Monaleen Mezcal.”
What part of your wedding day was most important to you?
Being surrounded by our families meant everything to us. Because it was a destination wedding, we had a full week to celebrate instead of just a single day, which allowed our families—who live in different countries—to truly connect. Watching everyone bond and form new friendships was the greatest gift.
Our niece Madeleine (7) reading A Love Poem by Whitney Hansom during the ceremony was a standout moment. It still brings tears to our eyes every time we reread it.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from one another?
The best thing we’ve learned is that love lives in the everyday.
Will can turn a Saturday morning run and coffee into my favorite moment of the week. He’s taught me that love isn’t just about grand gestures, but the quiet ways you show up—consistently, patiently, and with care.
From Laura, I’ve learned gratitude and stillness. She reminds me to pause, to really see what’s right in front of us, and to find joy in the smallest things. She has this grounded way of appreciating life that keeps us both centered.
What is your favorite thing about each other?
Laura: My favorite thing about Will is how deeply he cares for everyone around him. He’s thoughtful, attentive, and has a way of making every person feel valued. And yes, his impeccable taste in wine doesn’t hurt either.
Will: What I love most about Laura is her endless curiosity. She doesn’t just observe—she immerses herself. Whether it’s a conversation, a culture, or a simple walk through a new neighborhood, she’s always learning and asking questions. It’s inspiring.
What was your favorite part about planning your wedding?
Our priorities could not have been more different, which turned out to be a blessing. I was focused on the food, décor, and logistics; Will was consumed by creating the perfect playlist and making sure we could dance on the sand. Because our interests rarely overlapped, we trusted each other completely in our respective roles, and everything came together in perfect harmony.
The music was chef’s kiss—and so was the menu.
If you had one piece of advice for other couples, what would it be?
Never stop growing together—but don’t lose sight of who you are individually. Supporting each other’s passions and independence strengthens your relationship in ways you can’t imagine. Growth as a couple comes from nurturing who you are separately, too.
What is the most honest thing you can say about love?
Love is a choice. It’s not defined by grand moments, but by the everyday decisions to listen, show up, and stay present. Love grows in the quiet, ordinary gestures—and it’s those moments that make a lifetime together extraordinary.
This feature was originally published in The White Wren Volume 7: Calm in the Chaos — a celebration of stories that remind us love is found in the quiet moments, the calm between the waves, and the gentle beauty of choosing one another every day. Purchase your copy here.
Photographer: Thomas Raboteur / @thomas_raboteur
Videographer: Johan Androt / @kwt__studio
Florals: Liberty St Barth / @libertystbarth
Music Coordinator / Violinist: Ombeline Collin / @ombelineviolonistsbh
Wedding Dress: Enzoani / @enzoani
Bridal Shoes: Stuart Weitzman / @stuartweitzman
Makeup Artist: Idalmi Perez / @idalmiperezroy
Suit: Suit Supply / @suitsupply
Shoes: Loro Piana / @loropiana
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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