Westbrook Elks Lodge

Rehearsal Dinner

Welcome Drinks by the Water

Saybrook Point Resort & Marina

The Wedding

After-Party

The Morning After Brunch

Recovery Pool Party

The Thomas Residence - The Oasis

The Last Slice of the Weekend

Summer

Our Wedding

HOW THEY MET 

It all began in a cozy cabin in Newry, Maine on New Year’s Eve, 2020. Jenn and her college roommates - along with their significant others - had rented a house for the weekend. She was heading up solo, unaware that fate had something else in mind. She’d heard that a few guests would be joining from another friend group, but didn’t think much of it. Among them was Stephen - though neither realized it then, something special was about to begin. Jenn and her friend pulled up to the house just as Stephen arrived. In true Jenn fashion, she came fully prepared with a Yeti cooler and a well-stocked bar cart. When Stephen offered to help carry things in, Jenn gave her signature confident response: “Nah, I got it.” Little did they know, that moment marked the start of a much bigger story. The house was filled with celebration for a newly engaged couple, and the evening was full of energy and laughter. Jenn and Stephen found themselves talking late into the night, hitting it off over shared jokes and easy conversation. The next morning, what began as a simple errand run turned into an unexpectedly perfect first date. While searching for ginger ale and Diet Coke for their friends (most of whom were recovering from the previous night), they found themselves with hours to kill and plenty to talk about. They ended up at the Matterhorn Ski Bar, where one conversation led to another. By the end of the weekend, Stephen asked Jenn what her plans were. She casually replied, “Probably head home and watch football.” Stephen, equally relaxed, said, “I’ll probably do the same and order some sushi.” Jenn, whose love for sushi and sports is well known, took that as a sign. When Stephen invited her over, she didn’t hesitate. From there, things moved fast. Weekend visits became weekly stays. Parker, Jenn’s golden retriever and the true judge of character, quickly gave his approval. Before long, he had a designated water bowl in Woburn and Jenn started to wonder if Stephen was more into her or her dog. After over a year of long-distance, Jenn officially moved into Stephen’s apartment in January 2022. They agreed on a “soft” move-in… until Jenn showed up with a car full of items - but this time, she left the bar cart and Yeti back home in Waterford. They relocated to Marlborough, Massachusetts in January 2023, and in November 2024, Stephen got down on one knee and asked Jenn (and Parker, of course) to spend forever with him. To this day, she’s still not totally sure which one of them Stephen fell for first, her or Parker, but the three of them can’t wait to celebrate their love with you on August 7, 2026!

Our Story

Please Note: Hotel options near Saybrook Point are limited!

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR OUR GUESTS:

To help us plan hotel room blocks and ensure there’s plenty of space for everyone, please take a moment to complete the Google Form below: <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfW6ALnOeNyYSC1Iam6nFMtj0J0SIyD1nCOUZkBWI3UT98coA/viewform?usp=header" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE THE ACCOMMODATION PLANS FOR JENN &amp; STEPHEN'S WEDDING</a> This will assist Jenn &amp; Stephen in anticipating room needs and help us secure accommodations on-site &amp; off-site for all our guests. Your response is greatly appreciated! Please Note: Jenn &amp; Stephen, along with their families, will be staying at Saybrook Point Resort &amp; Marina for the weekend (Thursday - Saturday).

HOTEL ROOM BLOCKS:

SAYBROOK POINT RESORT & MARINA

We have a wedding block at Saybrook Point Resort &amp; Marina, where guests will receive a 15% discount on rooms, and the two-night minimum requirement is waived for all reservations within the block. To take advantage of this offer, be sure to book your room by July 3, 2026. Accommodation Options:&nbsp;Standard Residential View ($534.65) or&nbsp;Luxury King Residential View ($577.15) or&nbsp;Luxury 2 Queen Residential View ($585.65) per night plus tax Website: <a href="https://www.saybrook.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Saybrook Point Resort &amp; Marina</a>Address:&nbsp;2 Bridge Street, Old Saybrook, CT 06475Phone: (860) 395-2000 - OPTION 1 ***RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE BY INDIVIDUAL CALL-IN; PLEASE USE THE GROUP NAME: MURRAY &amp; THOMAS WEDDING***

Best Western Niantic - New London/Mystic

Best Western Niantic – New London/Mystic Area is located OFF-SITE and is approximately 18-20 min., from Saybrook Point Resort &amp; Marina under normal traffic conditions. Guests must reserve by July 6, 2026. Accommodation Options: Thursday, August 6, 2026 ($78.00); Friday, August 7, 2026 ($156.00); Saturday, August 8, 2026 ($156.00) per night plus tax Website: <a href="https://www.bestwestern.com/en_US/book/hotels-in-niantic/best-western-niantic-new-london-mystic-area/propertyCode.07030.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Best Western Niantic - New London/Mystic</a>Address: 265 Flanders Road, Niantic, Connecticut&nbsp;06357Phone: (860) 739-3099 ***RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE BY INDIVIDUAL CALL-IN; PLEASE USE THE GROUP NAME: MURRAY &amp; THOMAS WEDDING***

SpringHill Suites by Marriott - Waterford/Mystic

SpringHill Suites by Marriott - Waterford/Mystic is located OFF-SITE and is approximately 25-30 min., under normal traffic conditions (Please note: Summer traffic on I-95 in Connecticut - especially on Fridays - can add extra travel time, so plan accordingly). Guests must reserve by July 6, 2026. Accommodation Options: 1 King bed ($329.00) ﻿or&nbsp;2 Queen beds ($339.00)&nbsp;per night plus tax Website: <a href="https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/gonsh-springhill-suites-mystic-waterford/overview/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">SpringHill Suites by Marriott - Waterford/Mystic</a>Address: 401 North Frontage Road, Waterford, CT 06385Phone: (860) 439-0151 ***RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE BY INDIVIDUAL CALL-IN; PLEASE USE THE GROUP NAME: MURRAY &amp; THOMAS WEDDING***

   ADDITIONAL OPTIONS:

AIRBNB, VRBO & RENTAL PROPERTIES

Hotel options near Saybrook Point are limited, however, there are plenty of charming Airbnb and Vrbo rentals in the area that offer great flexibility for groups and families! We recommend exploring nearby rental homes early, as summer dates tend to book quickly! Airbnb Website: <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/s/Old-Saybrook--CT/homes?refinement_paths%5B%5D=%2Fhomes&amp;place_id=ChIJ64sdUKoj5okRX0p3yCPVXZA&amp;acp_id=bb558e34-ef9a-4381-a067-1fbdd2777dc0&amp;date_picker_type=calendar&amp;checkin=2026-08-06&amp;checkout=2026-08-09&amp;adults=2&amp;source=structured_search_input_header&amp;search_type=user_map_move&amp;query=Old%20Saybrook%2C%20CT&amp;flexible_trip_lengths%5B%5D=one_week&amp;monthly_start_date=2025-07-01&amp;monthly_length=3&amp;monthly_end_date=2025-10-01&amp;search_mode=regular_search&amp;price_filter_input_type=2&amp;price_filter_num_nights=3&amp;channel=EXPLORE&amp;ne_lat=41.436860538567245&amp;ne_lng=-72.28370680024659&amp;sw_lat=41.190466555891376&amp;sw_lng=-72.50207705678449&amp;zoom=11.304472291405107&amp;zoom_level=11.304472291405107&amp;search_by_map=true" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Airbnbs Near Old Saybrook, CT</a>Vrbo Website: <a href="https://www.vrbo.com/search?destination=Old%20Saybrook%2C%20Connecticut%2C%20United%20States%20of%20America&amp;regionId=6057199&amp;latLong=41.297112%2C-72.377083&amp;flexibility=0_DAY&amp;d1=2026-08-06&amp;startDate=2026-08-06&amp;d2=2026-08-09&amp;endDate=2026-08-09&amp;adults=2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vrbos Near Old Saybrook, CT</a>

The Copper Beech Inn

The Copper Beech Inn in charming Ivoryton is approximately 6.5 miles (about a 12‑minute drive) from Saybrook Point Resort &amp; Marina. We don’t have a wedding block reserved there, but guests are absolutely welcome to explore booking on their own. Website: <a href="https://www.copperbeechinn.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Copper Beech Inn</a>Address: 46 Main Street, Ivoryton, CT 06442Phone: (860) 767-0330

Inn at Harbor Hill Marina

The Inn at Harbor Hill Marina is a beautiful waterfront option located about 25 minutes from Saybrook Point Resort &amp; Marina. Although we haven’t reserved a wedding block here, guests are more than welcome to book independently. Should a block become available, we’ll be sure to update this page. Be sure to check out the two hotel blocks we do have secured above! Website: <a href="https://innharborhill.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Inn at Harbor Hill Marina</a>Address: 60 Grand Street, Niantic, CT 06357Phone: (860) 739-0331

Accommodations

AIRPORTS

WHAT ARE THE CLOSEST AIRPORTS TO SAYBROOK POINT RESORT &amp; MARINA (OLD SAYBROOK, CT)? Bradley International Airport (BDL) - Hartford, CTDistance: 57.4 miles - 58 minutes Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD) - Warwick, RIDistance: 67.7 miles - 1 hour &amp; 4 minutes Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) - Boston, MADistance: 125 miles - 1 hour &amp; 58 minutes Tweed New Haven Airport (HVN) - New Haven, CTDistance: 31.4 miles - 38 minutes LaGuardia Airport (LGA) - Queens, NYDistance: 106 miles - 1 hour &amp; 47 minutes John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) - New York, NYDistance: 109 miles - 2 hours &amp; 5 minutes

    

TRAIN STATIONS

The closest train station to Saybrook Point Resort &amp; Marina is the <a href="https://shorelineeast.com/stations/old-saybrook-station/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Old Saybrook Train Station</a>, located just 1.5 miles away. The station is conveniently served by both Amtrak’s Northeast Regional and Shore Line East services, making travel to and from the resort easy for guests arriving by train. Additionally, Saybrook Point Resort &amp; Marina offers complimentary transportation to and from the train station, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free arrival and departure for all our guests.

CROSS SOUND FERRY

<a href="https://www.longislandferry.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Cross Sound Ferry</a> offers a convenient and scenic route across Long Island Sound, connecting Orient Point on Long Island's North Fork to New London, Connecticut. The journey typically takes about 80 minutes for vehicle and passenger ferries, and approximately 40 minutes on the high-speed passenger-only SeaJet. The ferry terminal in New London is located at 2 Ferry Street, just off I-95, making it easily accessible for travelers. Saybrook Point Resort &amp; Marina is approximately 17.6 miles away by road, about a 21-minute drive under normal traffic conditions.

Bridgeport & Port Jefferson Ferry

<a href="https://www.88844ferry.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Bridgeport &amp; Port Jefferson Ferry</a> offers a scenic and efficient route across Long Island Sound, connecting Bridgeport, Connecticut, to Port Jefferson, New York. The journey typically takes approximately 1 hour &amp; 15 minutes, making it a convenient option for travelers. After disembarking in Bridgeport, Saybrook Point Resort &amp; Marina is approximately 48 miles away by road, translating to about a 56-minute drive, under normal traffic conditions.

        

UBER

Guests can easily grab an Uber any time - even on a Thursday evening - but should build in a little extra wait time. Friday nights see higher demands so it's recommended to use Uber Reserve to book 2 hours ahead. Aim to request a ride 15–20 minutes before you’d like to head out - peak demand may increase wait times. If you're looking to be extra sure, especially for group travel or airport transfers, reserving Uber rides ahead is highly recommended.

Travel

While you’re here celebrating with us, we’d love for you to experience some of our favorite spots! From charming restaurants and lively bars to fun activities, boutique shopping, and more, this list is filled with places we adore and hope you will too.

ACTIVITIES:

Guests staying on-site can enjoy a full resort experience! The property features indoor and outdoor pools, a seasonal dockside bar, sauna, steam room, and the luxurious SANNO Spa. Whether you’re relaxing between events or extending your stay, it’s the perfect coastal getaway.

Saybrook Point Resort & Marina - Luxury Connecticut Oceanside Hotel

Looking for a fun and easy activity between events? The Saybrook Point Mini-Golf course is just a 2-minute walk from the resort and offers a relaxed, scenic spot for guests of all ages. With beautiful marina views and a laid-back vibe, it’s a great way to enjoy the shoreline and a little friendly competition.

Mini-Golf at Saybrook Point

One of Jenn and Stephen’s favorite places to walk is on the Niantic Boardwalk, located 22 minutes from their venue. We recommend doing a full loop - park under the Niantic Bridge (near Cini Memorial Park), walk under the bridge and start your walk on the boardwalk towards Hole In The Wall Beach - then make your way to Main Street and enjoy some shops/grab a coffee before heading back to your car! If you’re in the area, we highly recommend taking a walk and soaking in the beautiful sights!

Niantic Boardwalk

Just down the road from where Jenn grew up, Harkness was a childhood staple - and it’s now one of her and Stephen’s favorite places to walk the dogs. This beautiful 230-acre property features sweeping lawns, gardens, and a classic shoreline loop with stunning views of Long Island Sound. Perfect for a peaceful stroll or simply soaking in the scenery!

Harkness Memorial State Park

Just a short drive from Saybrook Point, Mystic is one of New England’s most charming coastal towns and a perfect place to explore while you're in the area! Wander the quaint streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés. Enjoy fresh seafood by the water, take a scenic stroll across the iconic Mystic Drawbridge, or visit the world-famous Mystic Seaport Museum and Mystic Aquarium. Whether you’re looking to relax, shop, or sightsee, Mystic offers a little something for everyone. We hope you have time to explore and enjoy the beauty of the Connecticut shoreline during our wedding weekend!

Mystic River Bascule Bridge

Looking for a scenic day trip? <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g54122-Watch_Hill_Westerly_Washington_County_Rhode_Island-Vacations.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Watch Hill</a> is a beautiful seaside village located about 50 minutes from Saybrook Point - and it's well worth the drive. Known for its stunning beaches, charming shops, and iconic <a href="https://www.oceanhouseri.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ocean House Resort</a>, Watch Hill offers classic New England coastal vibes with a touch of luxury. Spend the afternoon walking along the harbor, relaxing on the beach, or visiting the historic <a href="https://merrygoroundbeach.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Flying Horse Carousel</a> — the oldest continuously operating carousel in the U.S. Don’t forget to catch the sunset over the water or grab a lobster roll and ice cream from one of the local spots. Watch Hill is peaceful, picturesque, and perfect for a little pre- or post-wedding exploring.

Watch Hill Beach

Looking for a memorable mini-adventure during your stay? Hop aboard the high-speed Block Island Express ferry from New London for a delightful day trip to the scenic shores of Block Island!

Block Island Express

RESTAURANTS/BARS:

Just a short stroll from our venue, Swell in Old Saybrook is your go-to stop for a quick, healthy treat. This bright and friendly café serves up amazing açaí bowls, smoothies, toasts, and more - perfect for a refreshing break between events and an excellent off-site breakfast option!

Swell

Liv’s Shack is a cozy, local favorite just a 5-minute drive from the resort. Known for its fresh seafood and laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect spot for a casual meal or drinks with friends. Enjoy great food and good times, all within minutes of Saybrook Point!

Liv's Shack

Stephen and Jenn love spending their post-boat summer days at The Dock. It’s the perfect spot for a quick bite, but even better for enjoying oysters and drinks! Grab a seat at the bar on the lower level, face the water, and relax while watching the boats go by.

The Dock Restaurant

A beloved local gem since 1963, Dad’s Restaurant has recently reopened under new ownership with a refreshed, family-friendly vibe. Just next door is <a href="https://www.boatsinc.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Boats Inc.</a>, a full-service marina where the Thomas family keeps their boat - a longtime favorite summer spot for boating, relaxing, and soaking in the shoreline views. Dad’s and the marina are part of the local charm that makes Niantic such a special place. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch or passing through town, it’s the perfect place to experience a slice of Connecticut’s coastal life.

Dad's Restaurant of Niantic

Jenn (and her bridesmaids) make GG at Home a regular stop. Located in the heart of Niantic, GG is a must-visit for fresh, seasonal food in a cozy setting. Whether you're dining in or grabbing something to go, you'll love their gourmet sandwiches, salads, and daily specials.

GG at Home Niantic

One of Jenn &amp; Stephen’s favorite spots! Located in downtown Niantic, 374 Kitchen &amp; Cocktails offers elevated comfort food, craft cocktails, and a fun, welcoming vibe. Don’t miss their daily brunch, local brews, and live jazz on Wednesday nights!

374 Kitchen + Cocktails

Located in the heart of historic Essex, The Griswold Inn is one of the oldest continuously operating inns in the country. Guests can enjoy live music in the Tap Room, explore the charming shops and galleries nearby, or take a stroll along the scenic waterfront - perfect for a cozy and classic New England experience.

The Griswold Inn

A longtime local hangout just a 4-minute drive from the resort, Monkey Farm Café is known for its casual atmosphere, pub-style menu, and lively bar scene. Whether you're grabbing a burger or catching up over drinks, it's a fun, no-frills spot just minutes from Saybrook Point!

Monkey Farm

The Black Sheep is an upscale Irish pub and restaurant, ideal for a pint and a bite. While Jenn and Stephen love visiting during the fall and winter, it’s always a favorite spot among friends. Jenn’s go-to is the Kale Caesar Salad with grilled chicken, while Stephen sticks with a classic pint of Guinness. Fun Fact: After Stephen proposed, they celebrated with drinks at The Black Sheep with friends!

The Black Sheep

Some say they have the best martinis in Connecticut, or maybe that's just Jenn and her Maid of Honor, Emily Walker Epps.

On The Waterfront Restaurant

A local favorite and one of the Thomas family's go-to spots, Captain Scott’s is a seasonal, family-owned seafood shack nestled on Shaw’s Cove in New London. Known for its hot lobster rolls, fried seafood, and casual BYOB picnic-table setup, it’s the perfect place to enjoy fresh New England fare with waterfront views.

Captain Scott's Lobster Dock

A beloved local gem, Riverside Grocery, known as “The Little Store", is where Jenn &amp; Stephen grab their favorite grinders before heading to the beach or out on the boat. Located at 150 Shore Road in Waterford, CT, this family-owned spot is perfect for a quick, delicious bite to eat. The meatball grinder is fan-favorite!

Riverside Grocery

Things to Do

OUR WEDDING PARTY

Shannon Slocum

Emily (Walker) Epps

Bridget (Szawlowski) Van Buskirk

Mary Murphy

Victoria (Smith) Dendas

Brad Forgetta

Patrick Teeven

Ed (Lenny) Araujo

Andrew Byron

Jon Rouillard

Jon Thomas

OUR PARENTS

WADE THOMASFather of the Bride NANCY THOMAS (In Loving Memory)Mother of the Bride STEPHEN MURRAY (In Loving Memory)Father of the Groom PAULA MURRAYMother of the Groom

OUR WEDDING OFFICIANT

We couldn’t imagine anyone more perfect to marry us than Colleen Forgetta. Colleen is the mom of Stephen’s best friend (and one of his best men), but really, she’s been Stephen’s second mom since his college days at Saint Anselm. She’s seen it all - from Stephen (or “Muzz”, as she knows him best) hanging out for hours on her deck, to beach days that turned into late nights/weekends in Hampton, to surprising him with a Bud Light–cap cake for his 30th birthday. 

Basically, if Colleen can handle all of that, she can definitely handle officiating our wedding. And while she may have earned her stripes through years of Stephen shenanigans, Jenn quickly bonded with her too - nothing brings people closer than accidentally getting lost together at the Boston St. Patrick’s Day parade.

So when it came time to choose our officiant, the decision was obvious. We’re so excited (and beyond lucky) to have Colleen by our side for our special day!

Colleen Forgetta

Our Wedding Party

Everything You’re Thinking (And Probably Some You’re Not):

<a href="https://www.wunderground.com/weather/us/ct/old-saybrook" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Check the Latest Weather Forecast for Old Saybrook, CT</a>

<a href="https://www.theknot.com/content/wedding-guest-attire-cheat-sheet" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Click Here for Wedding Dress Codes: </a><a href="https://www.theknot.com/content/wedding-guest-attire-cheat-sheet" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">A Guest's Guide to Every Type of Attire</a>

If you have any other questions that are not listed here, please feel free to reach out to Jenn or Stephen directly via email at themurrays2026@gmail.com.