Wedding Day

Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church

Ceremony

Abigail Kirsch at Pier Sixty, The Lighthouse & Current

Reception

Our Wedding

Where it all began...

Webster’s dictionary defines relationships as “the way in which two people are connected," which couldn’t be a more fitting way to define this love story: Two people staying connected despite physical distance, flights, or time zones.

2014: The BeginningAlthough friends for years, Jeff needed the perfect opportunity to spill his feelings to Alyssa. After some sound advice from Alyssa's friend, Keira, Jeff got the green light.On November 1, 2014, the relationship became official. This special date also happened to be the weekend of the Florida-Georgia football game in Jacksonville, FL. Surrounded by their friends, lots of booze, and a Gator win, this weekend went down in history and was the perfect way to kick off this relationship (nice planning, Jeff)!

2015: Off to the Real WorldAlyssa and Jeff made the most of their remaining time together at UF. But in May 2015, Alyssa and Jeff each graduated with master’s degrees and went off into the real world. Alyssa moved to NYC and Jeff moved to Orlando to start their first jobs. Most would think that this relationship won’t last... who actually can make long distance work? Well, it seems that long distance relationships work when you find the right partner. Alyssa and Jeff somehow managed to figure it out!&nbsp;

2016 - 2017: Getting the Hang of Long Distance1.5 years of flying between NYC and Orlando was manageable. Then, Jeff started making his way up the east coast. Charlotte, NC was the landing spot in 2017.Flights were cheaper and shorter… perfect.&nbsp;

2018: New Continent, New AdventuresOne year later, 2018 brought the most excitement they’ve seen thus far.Jeff got a job in NYC and Alyssa got a job in Frankfurt. You know, the city in Germany? Although it seemed insane at the time, for Alyssa and Jeff it was the opportunity of a lifetime to travel, explore, and save absolutely no money. So off to Germany Alyssa went. Jeff visited Europe 6 times that year and they created lasting memories spanning Germany, Portugal, Spain, Hungary and Italy… not too shabby.

2019: NEW YORK, NEW YORKApril 2019 - THEY ARE BACK, TOGETHER, IN THE SAME CITY. For the first time in 4 years Alyssa and Jeff no longer required a flight to see each other. The first year in NYC was an absolute dream. Not only was Alyssa back in the USA (safe and not a constant source of worry for all friends and family), but everything seemed right in the world. Friends were visiting, family trips were frequent, life was amazing…

2020: Quarantined and Engaged…and then March 2020 hits. No explanation needed. No one wants to relive that one.&nbsp;Jeff originally planned on proposing on April 9, 2020, the 1 year anniversary of Alyssa returning from Germany. For obvious reasons that plan did not play out. Fortunately, a new plan was formed with the help of their families and dear friends.Jeff proposed to Alyssa on June 20, 2020, the longest day of the year. Alyssa said yes on the grounds of Richmond County Country Club, the place she grew up and holds very dear to her heart. The evening continued with dinner at a hot, new pop-up restaurant on New Dorp Lane, with up-and-coming head chef, Debra Buttermark, manager, Louis Buttermark and head bartender/waiter, James Buttermark (thank you Buttermark family!!).

If it wasn’t for all of the endless support of our friends and family, this dream of a relationship would have never been possible. Through all the ups, downs and everything in between, you have been there for us, and we cannot wait to celebrate with all of you come April 2022!

Our Story

Luxury hotel in the heart of downtown Manhattan Must book before March 22, 2022 to ensure rate.

Conrad New York Downtown

Located in&nbsp;the heart of Manhattan's Financial District, Millennium Hilton New York Downtown is world famous for its one-of-a-kind room views, proximity to popular&nbsp;attractions, and convenient access to Midtown and Brooklyn. We've served the Lower Manhattan community for over 25 years and are proud to offer exceptional Hilton service, as well as some of the largest hotel rooms and suites in the downtown area Must book before April 7, 2022 to ensure rate.

Millennium Hilton New York Downtown

There will be bus transportation provided between the different locations of the day. Please note the below logistics: All transportation will use the Conrad Hotel as the main base (so if you plan to travel by bus throughout the day, please plan accordingly) 04/22/20222:00pm: Buses depart from the Conrad Hotel Downtown --&gt; Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church3:00pm: Ceremony begins[Buses will remain at Holy Trinity to take guests who wish to go back to the Conrad Hotel Downtown between ceremony and reception]6:05pm: Buses depart the Conrad Hotel Downtown --&gt; The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers6:30pm: Cocktail Hour begins7:30pm: Reception begins10:30pm-12:00am: Buses will begin transportation from The Lighthouse to the Conrad Hotel Downtown We understand that our guests may stay at alternative hotels and have different plans to explore the city throughout the day. So please don't feel required to follow any specific agenda regarding transportation. We are looking forward to seeing you all at the ceremony and the reception.

Travel

WELCOME DRINKS

Thursday, April 21, 20228:30-10:00pm ET Liberty Bistro located in Le District225 Liberty StreetNew York, New York Join us for a celebratory cocktail to kick off our wedding weekend!We will be celebrating on the patio along the Hudson River. Don't worry, the event will be covered with heat lamps (if necessary)!

WEDDING CEREMONY

Friday, April 22, 20223:00pm ET Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church213 West 82nd StreetNew York, New York

WEDDING RECEPTION

Friday, April 22, 20226:30-11:30pm The Lighthouse at Chelsea PiersPier 61, Chelsea PiersNew York, New York Attire: Black tie optional

Wedding Weekend Itinerary

Things to do near the hotels: Downtown Manhattan

- World Trade Center- 9/11 Memorial &amp; Museum- Battery Park (views of the Statue of Liberty)- South Street Seaport- Wall Street / NY Stock Exchange- Brookfield Place (waterfront shopping &amp; dining)- Grand Banks (oyster bar floating on the Hudson River)- Stone Street (notable street with bars &amp; restaurants)

Things to do near the venue: Chelsea

- The High Line (elevated park built on a historic freight rail-line)- Little Island (public park floating on the Hudson River)- Chelsea Market (food &amp; retail marketplace)- City Winery- The Standard Hotel Biergarten- Frying Pan (bar on the historic Lightship boat)

Things to Do

Alyssa’s random freshman year roommate at UF that turned into a best friend the moment they met for the first time and awkwardly shook hands. First roommate, London flatmate, European travelling partner, loyal Gator fan, lawyer putting all the bad guys away, and forever friend.

Ashley Simington

Alyssa’s fellow club swimming teammate that instantly became the sister God never gave her. Fellow New Yorker, Alyssa’s other half, teacher molding our next generation, a beauty with the largest heart imaginable, gleek, and forever friend.

Keira Bartley

One of Alyssa’s oldest friends. Although it took convincing from Kate, they became friends at 5 years old and stayed together through all of life’s milestones including sleepovers, begging their parents to get braces, sweet 16’s, and adult life. Fellow blondie, obsessor of NYC (and Montauk), most beautiful future dentist, ultimate advice giver, and forever friend.

Claire Droumbakis

One of Alyssa’s oldest friends who is credited with making her a swimmer just so they could spend more time together. She’s been by Alyssa’s side through all of the sleepovers, sweet 16’s, Regis dances, and Irish step dancing. Brilliant orthopedic surgeon, reader of the best books, biggest supporter and forever friend.

Kate Connors

The first friend Alyssa made at St. Joseph by-the-Sea high school where they endured the scholar’s program together. Lover of all things NYC, lawyer focused on making a difference, food connoisseur, and forever friend.

Kaitlyn Hartmann

Alyssa’s best friend since the 8th grade who she has shared every major life milestone with, including getting engaged on the same day! Loyal sidekick, dog lover, a guaranteed good time, and forever friend.

Nicole LaGrega

Alyssa’s instant friend ever since that first day they met over bottomless margaritas which turned into an all night Manhattan adventure. She also happens to be engaged to Alyssa’s brother. Lover of all things Irish or green, creative crafter, and most thoughtful person on this planet.

Bridget McQuade

Alyssa’s older cousin who has always been there to show her the ropes from 4th grade cheerleading try-outs to Vegas to picking out wedding dresses. Forever role model, new mommy, and ultimate support system.

Christy Lenning

Alyssa’s younger cousin who instantly filled the role of little sister and has always been Alyssa’s biggest (and loudest) cheerleader. Fashionista, tik tok aficionado, and ultimate hype woman.

Lauren Lutz

Alyssa’s younger cousin who became her instant buddy the moment she was born. Dancer, passionate teacher, fellow Buttermark sidekick, and instant fun time.

Tara Buttermark

The man that made Jeff a big brother! Fellow Gator alum and nerdy engineer, big boat guy, and most dependable man on this planet.

Nick Reardon

Jeff’s youngest brother and ultimate guy’s guy. Math whiz, country music lover, and lifetime pull-up competition partner (and winner).

Matt Reardon

Jeff’s first friend and swim team bestie from the ripe age of 9. Air Force captain, triathlon lover, motorcycle aficionado, and biggest supporter regardless of timezone or coast.

Shane Toner

Jeff’s college roommate and the most well-travelled friend. They’ve been by each other’s side since their young lifeguarding mischief days and continue their mayhem in NYC. Lover of tacos and tequila, fitness junkie and artistic genius.

Chris Jones

Jeff’s first friend he made at UF and his trusty VP when they were executive board members of the UF club swim team (don’t worry, Alyssa was the Secretary and kept them in check). Best friend to both Alyssa and Jeff, Alyssa’s first boyfriend (long story), workout buddy and ultimate good time.

Trey Dotson

Jeff’s bud since the moment they met while drinking around the world in Epcot. He was Jeff’s first friend upon moving to NYC and will become Jeff’s brother IN-LAW. Seinfeld obsessor, golf great, all-time sports factbook, and best dancer on Staten Island.

James Buttermark

Jeff’s friend from his UF club swimming days who rounded out the executive board as his Treasurer. They’ve been getting into shenanigans from Gainesville to NYC. Hawaiian shirt obsessor, fellow engineer, gator die-hard, and whiskey lover.

Michael Burghardt

Jeff’s everything partner growing up from basketball to football to floor hockey to 4-square. Always down for a good time and making a good handshake. Miami Hurricane, beer pong champ and ultimate guy’s guy. 

Christian Tepley

Wedding Party

Engagement Photos

As of March 7, 2022, NYC has lifted COVID-19 vaccination restrictions for indoor businesses, dining, and events as long as COVID-19 case numbers remain low. Of course, we will continue to monitor any and all changes to these protocols and will follow suit with any restrictions that get re-introduced. We've waited a VERY long time for our wedding and plan to still celebrate in the safest way possible. We continue to encourage vaccinations and boosters to maintain that level of safety. We cannot wait to safely celebrate with you all!

Alyssa & Jeffrey

Alyssa & Jeffrey

Things to Do

Things to do near the hotels: Downtown Manhattan

Things to do near the venue: Chelsea