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My August 2008 Raphael Vineyard Wedding
Head Over Heels11 Posted: May 26, 2009 06:32 PM+
Head Over Heels11 MEMBER SINCE: 3/08 TOTAL POSTS : 4 WEDDING DATE: Aug 02, 2008
Posted: May 26, 2009 06:32 PM bride-minus.png

My August 2008 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

Hello fellow brides and brides-to-be!!!!!!!! After completing my last grueling year of law school, I have finally had a free second to post a review of my vendors from my August 2, 2008 wedding. I stalked these boards like crazy in the months leading up to my wedding and am so very thankful for every person's posts and advice. For the incomparable service that this site and all the postings lent me, I thank the staff at LIWeddings.com and every other bride on it! I hope my reviews can give something back. (NB: I am a bride from Manhattan... my wedding in the North Fork was a semi-destination wedding. This made reviews on here extremely important in wedding planning, as I couldn't visit every vendor I might have used

Raphael Vineyard: A++++. My experience with this venue was spectacular, and I could not be happier to have had it as our reception location. During the planning process, I worked closely alongside Julie to ensure that every drink, every piece of food, and every decoration was precisely how I had envisioned it. We had a wine bar, a liquor bar, specialty cocktails, a raw bar, every hors d'oeuvre under the sun (passed and stationary), a 3 course full dinner, a dessert bar, a person scooping gelato, and treats to take with us! Not only did the staff at Raphael make my dream come true, but they were more than happy to accommodate my many (and perhaps, excessive) requests... and they did so with a smile! Moreover, and significantly for brides who might have less of a 'vision', Julie had so many great, unique ideas and was always available to discuss the fine details. Her enthusiasm is infectious. She even surprised me with a bunch of little touches at the wedding that I will remember forever (e.g. a sprawling dessert table with everything you could imagine, including some of the best heart-shaped wedding-color coordinated sugar cookies I could possibly have imagined)! Finally, they helped me tie up loose ends the day before the wedding, e.g. menu printing, bar menu assembly, that no other place would ever do. I am so, so thankful that I used them for my wedding reception and I just feel remarkably fortunate to have worked with Julie, Lisa and their staff. Anyone who has any questions about Raphael - please feel free to ask me... I in terms of my experience with them, I wish I could do it all again.
For the foodies: As a 'foodie', I was particularly concerned with the food being of high quality and pleasing to all my fellow epicures. My guests raved that the food was incredible and that the service was as well. I chose to have the 'European Style' reception, which consists of approximately 2 hours for cocktail hour, 1.5 hours for seated dinner, 2.5 for dancing, dessert, etc. This was PERFECT. The food was spectacular from start to finish. I'd love to talk to any future bride about this.
p.s. I had my wedding in August, when the vines are most lush. This really made a difference in terms of the setting... if you can swing it, I suggest having your wedding in late summer.



Jedediah Hawkins Inn... F. A tragedy. My experience with this inn was a nightmare from start to finish. I will elaborate on my experience with them in detail in hopes that no other bride ever is lured by their idyllic setting, which is nothing short of a facade for inadequacy and non-existent service. (Unfortunately, the beauty of the inn, and the seemingly 'fine cuisine', lured me into this trap). My husband and our families rented the entire inn for the weekend, held our rehearsal dinner there, the females prepared for the wedding there, and my husband and I stayed there our wedding night.
Regarding their event planning: I have never dealt with inadequate staff such as those employed by Jedediah. In fact, one of the women with whom I worked (Casey) was fired mid-way through my planning our rehearsal dinner... I did not realize this until I called 2 months later and was told that I would have to begin planning for a second time with a newly hired woman (Regina), because they could not confirm any of the plans we had previously made. (Casey had repeatedly told us that she had direct and controlling decision-making authority many, many times). All the work that went into the initial plans was lost, which posed much difficulty for this very busy bride. For example, we had planned to have our post-nuptial cocktails at the bar at the inn, had published those plans on our website, only to be told that they would no longer accommodate us. Any request we had (e.g. discussing table arrangements, timing) was greeted with disdain and a nasty attitude. Not only was their 'event planner' never in her office and terrible with returning calls, but she lacked any sense of responsibility for my event or even for the Inn's success. On the night of the rehearsal dinner, my designer came to the Inn to prepare the patio for our dinner... she was greeted with dirty hurricane glasses and a floor that had not been swept.
Regarding their inn: Overpriced with no idea about what 'service' means. We rented the entire inn. The suite alone was $595/night. Some basic problems I recall were that the shower drain in the suite backed up, the blow-dryer in my room was broken (I had to borrow one from my mother's room... they did not have an extra), I was told that I was not allowed to have more than 3 bridesmaids stay with me the night before my wedding, my request for extra shampoo was refused, and I was told that 'they were on back order'). There was no special touch, e.g. bottle of champagne, as celebrating the fact that I was getting married and spending my wedding night there (while not crucial, it's just a little touch that even the Holiday Inn in Riverhead got right). All of this pales in comparison to the end of my wedding night. In my rush to get ready on my wedding day, I left my key to the suite in the room. When my new husband and I returned from our wedding and post-nuptial cocktails at around 12:30 a.m., excited as any bride and groom are on their wedding night, we realized we were LOCKED OUT of our room. The 'guard' on staff had no key, nor did anyone else. The guard had no idea what to do and frankly, appeared to be unconcerned. We had to wait approximately 1.5 hours for someone to arrive to let us into our room. Half of that time was spent with no information, no idea what was going to happen. This incident was sad and even potentially dangerous. Finally, the following morning after we checked out, the inn keeper informed us that they had overcharged us $25 and rather than refund our card, they would only issue a gift certificate to the inn! We were so tired of their ineptitude that we left, with a chuckle. It felt as though they had stolen even more from us.
Regarding their dining experience: The food was decent; however, the service was atrocious and is all that I can remember with clarity. At a dinner for 50 people, entire tables had been served and finished their meals before other tables even received their food. In fact, I believe dinner plates were cleared from the first tables before the latter tables were served. The waitstaff is very nice, but are kids, and as nice as they were, they were not trained as waitstaff for what was supposed to be a formal dinner.
In general, I will never forget what a terrible experience I had with the Jedediah Hawkins Inn and really hope that my review can be a fair warning to other brides or people planning events. From what I'm told, my horror story with them was not the first.



Maria Trupia (North Fork Designer): A++++. Maria was a godsent. After I was told that the people at Jedediah had lost all of our files and were now changing their plans, I really wanted to scrap my relationship with them and find a new place for a rehearsal dinner and post-nuptial cocktails/snacks. Maria has a phenomenal home in Mattituck, at which I considered holding the dinner, and has been an event designer for years. Although I decided against changing from Jedediah (we had too much money to lose in deposits...), I decided to hire Ms. Trupia as a designer for my weekend events (rehearsal dinner, wedding, brunch), and as my advocate in the North Fork while I was in NYC. She was a best friend, an advocate, and most importantly, a SPECTACULAR designer for my event. Every little 'touch' that makes one wedding special, pretty, and part of one theme or elegant design was brought home by Ms. Trupia. Not only does she have brilliant ideas, but she breathes life into everything she does. She was always available to talk/e-mail, to brainstorm perfect touches for my wedding, and to help me when I simply did not have the time or ability to do it myself. Some incredible things Maria did were to add incredible design to my dessert table and dinner tables, assemble hospitality kits for the bathrooms, design the brunch, assemble centerpieces and tablescapes for the rehearsal dinner... the list honestly goes on and on. Please contact me for her info if you are interested... She's worth every penny. She can be reached at [email protected].



Holiday Inn Express (Riverhead): A. This was where I booked a block of rooms for OOT guests, where the men got ready, where I had post-nuptial cocktails and late-night snacks, and post-nuptial brunch. The staff here was incredibly helpful and kind. Rita Pizzano and Kim are talented and wonderful businesswomen and I highly recommend working with them. They ensured that everything was timed perfectly, that they provided exactly the right food at the time I wanted, that they could offer me the right room at the right price, and that any little snag I had would be remedied. They also made sure that my welcome baskets for guests were safe (I had them delivered to the North Fork a few days before the wedding), and that each person received one. I am so happy to have used this hotel.


St. Patrick's RC Church (Southold): A. I'm not sure how much I can write about the church, as it is not my home parish. It's very quaint, beautiful on the outside, and the place where I married the love of my life. It is the location of the happiest moment of my life. Father Mitchell was pretty funny, and maybe a little sleepy at times! I only have fond memories of every moment I was there.



Sugar Sugar Bakery (Hampton Bays): A++++ PERFECT!!!! My wedding cake was extremely, extremely important to me. Originally, I hoped to have Ron Ben Israel ship a cake for me to the East End for my wedding day. Sadly, the shipping charge was between $700-800 and I couldn't justify that. I searched high and low for a decent baker out in the Hamptons or in the North Fork, and boy, did I find it! This bakery was the answer to my prayers. I had a deep chocolate cake with 3 different fillings, light pink in color and covered with cherry blossoms. It was absolutely delicious. The pieces I have saved for our anniversaries (I preserved the top-tier in 4 separate slices, one for every 3 months in our first year of marriage, the final on our 1 year anniversary). The women who own this bakery are incredibly kind, enthused to be part of your wedding, creative, and talented. They made my cake tasting with 5 friends a great, memorable experience and I hope to return to give them more business in the future.
p.s. Raphael offers to provide a cake at no additional charge, by Have Your Cake. I tasted that cake and it was disgusting (dry, awful icing, etc.) Not to mention, the baker at Have Your Cake is not remotely friendly. Do yourself a favor and go to Sugar Sugar!



Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier: A+. Anjou was my bridal consultant, Melissa was my seamstress. Both were great. Anjou gave me excellent advice and helped me find the perfect dress (Monique Lhullier. All lace, open-back key hole neck). Melissa watched me panic bi-weekly as my dress needed ever more alterations. She was gracious, comforting, and a confidant. I'll always recall my fittings fondly. If I had another reason to use this place, I would, and I'd demand that Melissa be my seamstress!


Pedestals Florist: A. They were very, very good. I worked with Marcella. I was extremely picky about each and every flower that was used in the my bouquets and my arrangements. Almost every one of the flowers I wanted was used and they made it possible to work within my budget. That alone is a huge accomplishment. Moreover, they achieved what no other florist could... they found pink peonies (my FAVORITE flower) for my wedding bouquet in August. How incredible is that?! It was really great. Finally, the service was really personalized, which is important to me. For NYC brides, they have an office in Hell's Kitchen in Manhattan. A huge time-saver and really something I appreciated. My only complaint is that there were several times my phone calls/e-mails were not returned... not a big deal, and could have been because of the busy season.



A Current Affair (Band): A+. WOW. My band was incredible and almost every guest told me so. They can play almost anything and I highly recommend them. It was important to us that there be both relaxed, elegant background music for cocktail hour and dinner, as well as music that would get everyone dancing during the latter half of the reception. FYI: The band is about 8 pieces.


Georgina (Make-up): A+. Fabulous. She is solely responsible for making me look perfect on my wedding day. I loved everything she did and she couldn't have understood what I wanted any better. I asked for an airy, light look and she got it just right. She travelled to Jamesport from much further west on my wedding day and was there on time and in no rush to leave. She can be reached at [email protected].

Gina Rizzatti (Hair): D+. Terrible choice, I was duped. Every one of my bridesmaids and my mother laugh to this day about how this woman has no idea how to do hair, but charged the rates of the best salons in NYC. I only chose her because the woman I had originally booked had to cancel a month and a half before the wedding... even in those circumstances, what a mistake!!! Not only did she not know how to do my hair, but she couldn't even manage to do a basic up-do or bun for my bridesmaids. I cried hysterically when she said she was done with my hair, and everyone in the room agreed that it did not look good. I took a break to get my make-up done and returned to her, with very exacting instructions of what I wanted. Only then, after my pushing, pulling, and prodding, did she manage to get a basic back bun right. She was a complete waste of money.


Duet Photographers: A-. They were pretty good and were at precisely my price-point. I had 2 photographers for 10 or 11 hours. I am happy with my photos, and I'm still waiting to get my wedding album (my fault... I have been far too busy in law school to pick the pictures, which is why this review is so very late). As of right now, I have hundreds of proofs and thousands of photos on dvds. They took some silly photos (e.g. had us sit under my veil) and I wish we hadn't wasted time doing that. They also did not take enough pictures of some family with us. Nevertheless, I would use them again. For NYC brides: They have a NYC office in Flatiron dist. (I think), which is convenient.
p.s. We hired them for a couple hours for our rehearsal dinner, which was a great decision. That way, no one had to worry about capturing a bunch of pictures at that special event!


Mary Cawley (Day-Of Bridal Attendant): A. Amazing!! I honestly could not have made it through the day without this woman. She helped me get into my dress, go to the bathroom, kept my hair in place and my lips glossed, got me drinks and food, and made any and all phone calls and mini-emergency fixes happen in a flash. If you are wondering whether you should hire someone to help you out on the day of the wedding - DO IT if you can possibly afford it. Mary is this person. You need someone who is willing to tell people where to go, what to do, how to do it, while you walk around gorgeous and in ignorant bliss. She can be reached at [email protected].


Vera Wang (Bridesmaids Dresses): B+. Beautiful but expensive. The alterations cost my girls far too much money, and every dress has to be altered, even if it's just a hem. However, after searching for months, this was the only place that had just what I wanted. The location on the Upper East Side is wonderful... even though I do recall a rude woman who was the receptionist / appointment person. (Those little details stick with me).


DKT Calligraphy: A. This is a vendor I used in CT, because she lives in New Fairfield (where my parents live). She was great and was able to work under really tight time constraints. I loved her work and if anyone needs her info, please let me know. Also - she was much less expensive than some calligraphers in Manhattan (what a scary expense!)

I'm not sure if I have forgotten any vendors and I certainly hope that I did not. If anyone has questions, please let me know. I know this review has taken me very, very long to post and writing it has helped me relive my dream of a wedding day.

p.s. I honeymooned in Tahiti (Intercontinental - 2 night stay due to flight times), Taha'a (Le Taha'a Private Island Resort and Spa - 5 nights), Bora Bora (St. Regis - 5 nights). I would not change one thing. My experience was perfect, food included. Le Taha'a was wonderfully secluded and like a deserted dream island. Perfect for spending alone time with your new hubby! St. Regis' service was psychic (to be expected), and that resort was my favorite. Very luxurious. Any questions, again, I'm somewhat available.
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Head Over Heels11 Posted: May 26, 2009 06:36 PM+
Head Over Heels11 MEMBER SINCE: 3/08 TOTAL POSTS : 4 WEDDING DATE: Aug 02, 2008
Posted: May 26, 2009 06:36 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2008 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

More pictures
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Head Over Heels11 Posted: May 26, 2009 06:38 PM+
Head Over Heels11 MEMBER SINCE: 3/08 TOTAL POSTS : 4 WEDDING DATE: Aug 02, 2008
Posted: May 26, 2009 06:38 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2008 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

More pictures
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MLAngelo Posted: May 26, 2009 06:41 PM+
MLAngelo MEMBER SINCE: 6/08 TOTAL POSTS : 7841 WEDDING DATE: Aug 08, 2009
Posted: May 26, 2009 06:41 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2009 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

your dress was gorgeous and beautiful pics. I am excited because I am using A Current Affair, glad you liked them so much.
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milojack Posted: May 26, 2009 07:17 PM+
milojack MEMBER SINCE: 11/07 TOTAL POSTS : 382 WEDDING DATE: Oct 22, 2012
Posted: May 26, 2009 07:17 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2009 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

Your wedding looks amazing. Congratulations.
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Cassie15 Posted: May 26, 2009 07:20 PM+
Cassie15 MEMBER SINCE: 3/09 TOTAL POSTS : 1164 WEDDING DATE: Jun 21, 2008
Posted: May 26, 2009 07:20 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2009 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

You look gorgeous! What a beautiful wedding, I love the cake & CP!
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lolalovesacroat Posted: May 26, 2009 07:23 PM+
lolalovesacroat MEMBER SINCE: 3/09 TOTAL POSTS : 1441 WEDDING DATE: Nov 14, 2009
Posted: May 26, 2009 07:23 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2009 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

Great Review and pictures

I got my Monique Lhuillier dress as well from Marc Ingram I cant wait for it to come in!
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twoifbysea Posted: May 26, 2009 07:47 PM+
twoifbysea MEMBER SINCE: 11/08 TOTAL POSTS : 3432 WEDDING DATE: Sep 04, 2009
Posted: May 26, 2009 07:47 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2009 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

amazing, amazing, amazing. I LOVE your ML gown!!!!! you make a beautiful bride!!!
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MrsGRod09 Posted: May 26, 2009 07:49 PM+
MrsGRod09 MEMBER SINCE: 9/08 TOTAL POSTS : 11437 WEDDING DATE: Oct 10, 2009
Posted: May 26, 2009 07:49 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2009 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

Congrats you looked gorgeous and everything looked so amazing!!
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MirabellaNYC Posted: May 26, 2009 07:50 PM+
MirabellaNYC MEMBER SINCE: 8/08 TOTAL POSTS : 5827 WEDDING DATE: Oct 03, 2009
Posted: May 26, 2009 07:50 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2009 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

Thanks for the review!!

You wore the 'Scarlet'!! That was one of the gowns I tried on..You look amazing!!

Congrats again
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littlepixie12 Posted: May 26, 2009 07:51 PM+
littlepixie12 MEMBER SINCE: 2/08 TOTAL POSTS : 9202 WEDDING DATE: Jul 03, 2009 WEDDING LOCATION: North Ritz Club
Posted: May 26, 2009 07:51 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2009 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

your pics are beautiful! congrats
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JamDancer Posted: May 26, 2009 10:55 PM+
JamDancer MEMBER SINCE: 1/09 TOTAL POSTS : 2076 WEDDING DATE: Oct 09, 2009
Posted: May 26, 2009 10:55 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2008 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

congrats! I used to be the bridal attendant at Raphael for years. I miss it a lot, Julie is the best :) I couldn't afford my wedding there but I had to have it part of it ... so we are taking our epics there on Monday !

Your pictures and CAKE omg are gorgeous!
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NapaValleyGirl Posted: May 27, 2009 09:08 AM+
NapaValleyGirl MEMBER SINCE: 5/07 TOTAL POSTS : 5029 WEDDING DATE: Sep 20, 2008
Posted: May 27, 2009 09:08 AM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2008 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

This is an absolutely phenomenal review! Your wedding day looked gorgeous and so did you! Congrats!
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julesrbf Posted: May 27, 2009 09:13 AM+
julesrbf MEMBER SINCE: 8/08 TOTAL POSTS : 5330 WEDDING DATE: Oct 23, 1995
Posted: May 27, 2009 09:13 AM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2008 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

SO beautiful - what a lovely bride. Congrats to you and your DH and thank you for the review!
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fonz616 Posted: May 27, 2009 09:48 AM+
fonz616 MEMBER SINCE: 7/08 TOTAL POSTS : 923 WEDDING DATE: Sep 18, 2009
Posted: May 27, 2009 09:48 AM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2008 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

Thanks for the review! You looked gorgeous, as did everything else! :)
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tarajacobs41208 Posted: May 27, 2009 11:16 AM+
tarajacobs41208 MEMBER SINCE: 5/09 TOTAL POSTS : 1 WEDDING DATE: Apr 12, 2008
Posted: May 27, 2009 11:16 AM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2008 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

Maria Trupia is an excellent event coordinator! She does some of the most beautiful and unique ideas. Not only is she a great event coordinator, she is a lovely person. Great to talk with, as well as have a meal with. She starts off as an event coordinator, and remains a friend long after. If you are interested, she can be contacted via e-mail at [email protected]. You won't be disappointed!
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mrsmuma Posted: May 27, 2009 03:43 PM+
mrsmuma MEMBER SINCE: 1/09 TOTAL POSTS : 168 WEDDING DATE: Aug 07, 2009 WEDDING LOCATION: Swan Club
Posted: May 27, 2009 03:43 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2008 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

OMG! You have no idea how thrilled I am to have read your review. I am getting married at Raphael this August!Your wedding was beautiful and really puts me at ease. I am going to FM you a few questions!!!Thanks!!!Congratulations!!!
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gina409 Posted: May 27, 2009 03:52 PM+
gina409 MEMBER SINCE: 7/08 TOTAL POSTS : 22731 WEDDING DATE: Oct 16, 2009
Posted: May 27, 2009 03:52 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2008 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

u look gorgeous!!!!!!!!!! congrats
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GT143EA Posted: May 27, 2009 03:58 PM+
GT143EA MEMBER SINCE: 12/05 TOTAL POSTS : 16105 WEDDING DATE: Jul 19, 2009
Posted: May 27, 2009 03:58 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2008 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

Great review! You looked gorgeous! Congrats!
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Diamondsgirl09 Posted: May 27, 2009 04:28 PM+
Diamondsgirl09 MEMBER SINCE: 7/08 TOTAL POSTS : 455 WEDDING DATE: Aug 14, 2009
Posted: May 27, 2009 04:28 PM bride-minus.png

Re: My August 2008 Raphael Vineyard Wedding

Congrats.. great review... I love your pics
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