Sons of Italy Joe Dimaggio Lodge

Engagement Party

The Regatta Room at Hudson River Rowing Association

Kiki's Bridal Shower

Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner

Rehursal

Adoration and Confession

Dinner

Saint Lawrence River

Wedding Day

Saint Mary's Catholic Church

Nuptial Mass

Antique Boat Museum

Cocktail Hour

Wedding Reception

From Aisle to Isle

The day before their second anniversary, Dominick surprised Michaela with a hike to Verkeederkill Falls in the Catskills. After enjoying a view from the top of the waterfall, they hiked down to the bottom. In the privacy of ferns and towering stone cliffs, Dominick took Michaela's hand, knelt on one knee, and asked her if she would marry him. She said, "Yes!"

How it Happened

The Start of Another Adventure

“I don’t agree with the phrase, ‘Distance makes the heart grow fonder.’ It always seemed like an underwhelming statement to me. I imagine Michaela and I would have grown this fond of each other no matter how close or far apart we were. That being said, I am very excited to be close to her for the rest of my life.”~ Dominick Joseph Russo

“With Dominick, I trust my own heart. I never forget love, not even the first few ounces of it - like the way your belly flips or how you giggle when you steal a glance. With Dominick, everything - from the first flutters to the deepest sacrifices - is real.”~ Michaela Elise Fox

Our Wedding

The Beginning

"I'm falling for you..."

“We started with an adventure.” On Ascension Thursday in 2021, Michaela and Dominick met at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel after a young adult Mass. Michaela was leading music ministry, and Dominick was altar serving. Afterwards, while singing acoustic versions of Shrek songs around the fire, the two discovered a mutual love for adventure and a thrill for discovering new places. Dominick did not hesitate to invite Michaela hiking early the following week. And so, their first date went down in history on May 17, 2021, at Mount Beacon in Beacon, New York. After a long day, an impromptu game of pick-up basketball, and a late-night drive singing folk music, the two ended their first date with a dance, barefoot in a dirt parking lot at the base of a mountain, under the stars. There is a comical debate as to whether this was indeed their first date, or if the real first date was later that week on a picnic at Vanderbilt Mansion in Hyde Park, New York. Here, Dominick asked Michaela to hold hands for the first time, and he told her she had pretty eyes as they enjoyed a view of the Hudson River. They courted each other for about one month, enjoying evenings on the town, hikes, walks through parks, and picnics. Every date started with prayer, whether it be the Rosary, Adoration, Mass, or sitting silently in a Church, praying together. They coined their motto, "Start with prayer, enjoy together, end with a dance." Certainly, on every date, they did just that! Tuesday's became their special day, and bagels, one of their favorite picnic snacks. Montgomery, New York, quickly stole their hearts, as it became one of the couple's favorite "cute, little towns" in their home of the Hudson Valley. On June 4, 2021, Michaela and Dominick made it official after Michaela made Dominick a special s'more while on a retreat in Cold Spring, New York. "He had locked himself out of his car, but he needed to leave for his over-night shift. I felt bad! We were sitting with our friends by a bonfire, so I made him a s'more with an extra treat - a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup. I wanted to cheer him up while he waited for rescue!" After realizing the s'more was for him, Dominick, a bit flustered, looked to Michaela and asked, "Will you be my girlfriend?" Michaela, who had long awaited this question, said yes. Later that night, they danced barefoot in the basement of an old brick Church and exchanged their first kiss. At the end of that summer, Michaela brought Dominick to the Saint Lawrence River for the first time. After a kayaking excursion to a small island, where the young duo watched the sunrise over the eastern horizon, Dominick and Michaela danced barefoot once again on her family's dock amid the dawn's mist and early-autumn glow of sunlight. "Hey, Michaela?" "Yes, Dominick?" "I love you." "I love you too." Off sailed the ships!

The Climb

"I want to marry you."

Shortly after the pair started dating, Michaela moved to Chicago, Illinois, where she lived and worked for about a year and a half. Dominick himself changed jobs, but remained in New York. The two spent nineteen months of the first two years of their relationship apart. Long distance was not without challenges, but the two were determined to pursue their relationship further. They believed the distance was just another part of the plan God had set before them. It was then that Michaela and Dominick learned to overcome difficulties together. They discovered the importance of relying on the Lord, even when they could not rely on each other. Routines became a bit more rigorous, and sacrifices were made. Budgeting was strict in order to afford visits, and time together was often limited or interrupted by life's events. Despite all of the trials, the two only grew in love for each other. It was Michaela and Dominick's resilience and the ever-growing strength of their relationship that brought to light a deeper desire - the desire to love each other differently and to do so for the rest of their lives.

The Journey

"You two love each other immensely.

We can all see it."

"Being here, traveling with you for the first time, has made me realize that I never want to travel without you ever again." Michaela took longer than Dominick to be certain of marriage. Dominick was ever patient and gentle as she discovered the movements of her heart in her own way. What set Michaela's heart in stone was, most notably, a trip to Italy! The wanderers embarked on a pilgrimage to Italy in October, 2022. Everyone thought Dominick would propose to Michaela in Italy, including Michaela herself. She was wrought with nervousness and uncertainty, but enthusiasm nonetheless. During their return home to the United States, Michaela and Dominick stopped in Iceland. Looking out at the coast, Michaela admitted, "It was taking off from Rome, with no ring on my finger, that I realized how much I truly wanted you to propose to me." Dominick immediately began his long-anticipated search for the perfect ring.

The Peek

"Michaela, will you marry me?"

It was the day before their second anniversary. Dominick had spent some time in Chicago with Michaela, and the two made a road trip home. They both surprised each other with an anniversary date. Dominick's date entailed hiking to Verkeederkill Falls in the Sam's Point Preserve of the&nbsp;Shawangunk Mountains. As with every date, they "started with prayer, enjoyed together, and ended with a dance." They prayed the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary together, and as if they both knew the joy awaiting them, they beamed with excitement. Giggling and reminiscing, talking loudly as though the world disappeared, they made their trek through the woods, along the trails, to the top of Verkeederkill Falls, the third tallest waterfall in New York. As they enjoyed the view, Michaela prepared herself for the question, but it didn't come! Dominick encouraged her to explore further and insisted the question wasn't coming that day. This set his now-fiancée up for a wonderful surprise! When they reached the bottom of the falls, Michaela climbed a rock and reached her hands out to the water. Ferns and fog made a natural, romantic atmosphere. Dominick joined Michaela on the rock, and reaching out to the water, he took her hand, turned her towards him, and bent to one knee. "Michaela, will you marry me?" Tears! Laughter! "Oh, Dominick! Yes!" She had made him promise to wait two years before asking her to marry him. Being the day before their second anniversary, he teased her saying, "I'm sorry. I just couldn't make it two years." In the privacy of the cliffs and the gushing falls, Michaela and Dominick got engaged - the start of another adventure!

The Valley

"Sometimes I wonder how much more I can say yes to God."

"Every time He asks..."

Now, Michaela and Dominick undertake the great task of planning their wedding - from over 6,000 miles apart. Dominick is pursuing a degree in environmental biology at the University of Hawai'i, Manoa, in Honolulu, Hawai'i. Michaela recently graduated with a Master of Arts in Musical Theatre Performance from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom. Please, pray for them in this time of discernment, and know that they are always praying for each of you! The two are united first and foremost in prayer, as well as in their resilient love for each other. Continue to pray for them, as they continue their journey towards marriage.

The Adventure

The Happy Couple

"We met in May, 2021, and started dating June 4 of that year. Our first date was a hike, which is very fitting for us. Some of our favorite activities include hiking, camping, skiing/snowboarding, and traveling the world. Having been long distance for most of our relationship, our dates are often new adventures, whether to far away places like Italy and Portugal, or up the mountains in the backyards of our childhood homes in the Hudson Valley. We are religious, and our faith stands as an integral center for our relationship. We love good food, charcuterie boards, movies and game nights with our families, bagels, picnics on Tuesday mornings, wading barefoot in creeks, local coffee shops, and homemade desserts. Dominick proposed underneath the waterfall of Verkeederkill Falls on June 3, 2023, saying he couldn't even wait for two years. Surrounded by ferns, rising black cliffs, and the gushing of water, it became official. We were getting married!" ~ Michaela Elise Fox

Gallery

The 1000 Islands

A Home Away from Home

The Saint Lawrence River is a home of legacy, culture, heritage, and peace for the family of the bride. Michaela, like her mother before her, and her grandfather and many generations before then, grew up calling the 1000 Islands "home". Being at "the Camp" meant running through the woods, playing in the water, racing on boats, fishing with Papa, enjoying Grandma's desserts, and eating homemade meals with a very large family. These joys are embedded in the family of the bride and are an integral part of her family's culture. Michaela has dreamed of having her wedding at the River for as long as she can remember. Welcoming loved ones to the Saint Lawrence is a deep and unique invitation. Dominick enjoyed his first trip in 2021, shortly after he and Michaela started dating. Now, as they look to the future and reflect on its meaning to both of them, they invite each of you to come and see, learning for yourselves the love of the River!

Where to Stay

The Bride &amp; Groom have reserved a courtesy block for guests at the Hilton Garden Inn in Watertown. Reservations can be made through June 6, 2025, or until fully booked.

Hilton Garden Inn Watertown/Thousand Islands

Boasting one of the best views of the Saint Lawrence River, the Harbor Hotel is a great pick for guests seeking comfort, luxury, or convenience. It is within walking distance of the Church and the reception venue.

1000 Islands Harbor Hotel

A local Bed &amp; Breakfast with rooms and en suites. Perfect for families looking to stay with extended relatives or a group of friends who want to unite together while still maintaining personal privacy.

Mckinley House Bed and Breakfast

A classic place to stay known to all locals, this motel is within driving distance of Clayton and offers an attached restaurant, said to be among the best dining in Clayton!

Clipper Inn

Travel via the Skies

Watertown International Airport is the closest commercial airport to Clayton, New York, situated about thirty minutes south on Route 12. It is a smaller airport, so it may not be as cost effective, though it is definitely the most convenient. American Airlines flies in and out of Watertown.

Watertown International Airport

Syracuse is approximately an hour and a half from Clayton via I-81N, and just over an hour from Watertown. American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, and United Airlines all fly in and out of Syracuse, among others.

Syracuse Hancock International Airport

Rochester is just under three hours from Clayton, and it's relatively straightforward - east on I-90, north on I-81. American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines all fly in and out of Rochester, among others.

Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport

Buffalo is approximately three hours and forty five minutes from Clayton, via I-90E and I-81N. It is the furthest of the aforementioned airports, but tends to have the lowest airfare. American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, US Airways, and United Airlines all fly in and out of Buffalo, among others.

Buffalo Niagara International Airport

If flying from abroad, Toronto Pearson International may be the most suitable option, as it will minimize driving distance after landing for more affordable rates. Air Canada, Air France, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines, among others, all fly in and out of Toronto. Note that this option will require clearing Canadian Customs upon landing, as well as American Customs when crossing the border via the road.

Toronto Pearson International Airport

Other New York airports with further drives, but potentially better costs, include Albany International Airport (ALB), New York Stewart International Airport (SWF), Westchester County Airport (HPN), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).

Travel via the Open Road

If you're coming from the Hudson Valley, the childhood home of both the Bride &amp; Groom, then the best route to Clayton would be via 86 NY-17. This can be accessed from I-84, or for a more scenic route, from 17-K, which eventually connects to 86 NY-17. In Binghamton, New York, bear onto I-81N until the Watertown, New York, exit for Route 12N. This will eventually lead to the final destination, Clayton! If coming from Upstate New York, consider taking I-90 to I-81N. Coming from anywhere else? Head to New York, then take the fastest route to the Canadian border!

God Bless You All & Safe Travels!

Lodging & Travel

Enjoy a stroll down Riverside Drive in Clayton with fresh places to eat, stylish boutiques, museums, an opera house, ice cream shops, and more!

The Mainland

Visit a venue of antique wooden boats for your vintage, rustic fix of style, class, and cruise! Wedding guests are welcome to peruse the museum for free on the day of the wedding.

Enjoy the night life of downtown Alexandria ("Alex Bay") with eclectic cuisine and a view of the river!

Alexandria Bay

Take a tour of the River from Alexandria with Uncle Sam Boat Tours. US Boat Tours also offers fireworks cruises on the Fourth of July!

Uncle Sam Boat Tours

Take a tour from Alexandria to the famous Boldt Castle at the heart of the Saint Lawrence River!

Boldt Castle & Boldt Yacht House

Enjoy a tour of Singer Castle, a hidden gem of America, in the middle of the 1000 Islands!

Singer Castle

Make an excursion to visit our Neighbors to the North and paint a cute, little town: Kingston, Ontario!

Visit Kingston, Ontario

Sights to See

Our Registry

"The sister I never had! From a young age, we were always giggling. Always wondering." Claire, cousin of the bride, and Michaela grew up dreaming of far-away places. From late night stories to real trips around the world, the iconic pair is always on a journey. Michaela will always remember their sleepovers, laughing until the Sun rose and keeping their Babcia on her toes. Claire inspired Michaela to travel, to explore, to discover, to imagine, to dream big. Thus, it is only fitting that Claire stand by Michaela's side as Maid of Honor while Michaela embarks on yet another great adventure - the adventure of her dreams!

Claire Marie Chaisson

"The one I can always rely on." Dominick cherishes several memories with Michael. Growing up with Michael meant having a friend for life. Growing up with Michael meant fun. Growing up with Michael also meant competition, from playing basketball on the driveway to football in the front yard, from baseball in the backyard to wrestling in the basement. Now, the fun times continue as Dominick and Michael both take on Hawaii, Dominick for school and Michael for military service. Dominick thought the inseparable pair should remain inseparable and happily asked Michael to stand right beside him on his big day.

Michael Herman Russo

The Bestie! Anna has been Michaela's go-to, confidant, best friend, laughing buddy, and much more for as long as Michaela can remember. Anna exemplifies unconditional love for Michaela. Whether teary-eyed or smiling, Anna has always been there to listen and share in every moment. When asked if she could fathom her and Dominick's special day without Anna standing with them at the altar, Michaela, in the most serious manner, which is indeed a rare occasion, says, "It would no longer be a special day without Anna."

Anna Elizabeth Cuccovia

The Life of the Party! Joe never misses an opportunity for a joke. His sense of humor and his outgoing and courageous nature are things that Dominick admires about his younger brother. Dominick sees himself in Joe, and is proud of the young man Joe has become. From late night conversations to ice cream shifts at Twin Cone, the two have shared both special and ordinary moments together, and Dominick couldn’t imagine his and Michaela’s special day without Joe keeping everyone laughing.

Joseph Christopher Russo

The Sista-From-Anotha-Mista! Marion holds the longest and dearest friendship with the bride, having met when they were just three years old. No one knows the bride better! Marion has journeyed with Michaela through every moment. Both have watched each other achieve her wildest of dreams. Michaela says, "It is necessary for the girl who listened to my earliest dreams of a fairytale wedding with a princess ballgown to be there on the day that dream comes true."

Marion Grace Dietz

The Reigning... Defending... ! Anthony can at first be very shy when you meet him, but once you get to know him, he can be as ruthless as any other Russo brother. Anthony has a competitive spirit like none other. Some of Dominick’s favorite things about Anthony are his zingers, one-liners, and his desire to win any game simply so you won’t. Dominick is glad to call Anthony his brother and now, to call him a groomsman.

Anthony James Russo

The Name Buddy! Michaela (Digs) and Michaela (Kiki) have been amazing friends since high school. The two are always sharing laughter, stories, prayers, and joy. The Bride is most fond of their walks, late night phone calls, and impromptu deep conversations over ice cream in someone's car. Kiki couldn't imagine a day without Digs there, to laugh yet another night away.

Michaela Gabrielle Digilio

The Last, But Not Least! With so many brothers and sisters, it can be hard to stand out in the crowd, but Vinny never misses a chance to make himself known. Vinny insists that the parents of the groom “saved the best for last”, though Dominick thinks the first is the best. One of Dominick’s favorite memories with his youngest brother is going to the drive-in to watch movies together, struggling to open all of their snacks. Dominick is very excited to have his “littlest brother” as a groomsman, standing by his side, along with all of his brothers, on his wedding day.

Vincent Xavier Russo

The College Friend! Ashley and Michaela are true friends. True in every sense of the word. When Michaela looks back at her undergraduate experiences, Ashely is in each of her fondest memories. Michaela characterizes Ashley as her "best college friend", loving most especially her loyalty and giddiness! College is filled with momentous events, and Ashley was undeniably the most supportive, caring, and joyous friend to be with Michaela through it all. Michaela is honored to have Ashley join her at the altar for yet another momentous life event.

Ashley DeAnne Brownridge

The “Big Brother”. Sean's affectionate nickname for Dominick is "little brother", which in itself reveals the deep friendship these two share. Sean has always been present for Dominick. No matter the circumstances. Sean had the biggest heart in all things. He has a way of bringing life to any party. Behind Sean’s quick-witted demeanor is a very kind, caring, and generous person. 

Sean Lewis Williams

The "Cherished Friend"! A line from a song Michaela wrote for Kayla refers to Kayla as her "cherished friend". The Bride has often said that, in ways indescribable, she has "fallen in love" with Kayla. The two share an incredible faith, which allows for such a depth in their friendship that is uncommon. These two inseparable friends believe wholly in the power of prayer, and Michaela has noted, "If I want anyone standing by me at the altar, praying for a fruitful and happy marriage, it is Kayla."

Kayla Marina Haz

The Best Friend! Carl is one of the most devout people Dominick knows. Carl's devotion to and love of Christ is an inspiration for how Dominick wants to live as a Catholic. This has allowed for Dominick and Carl to form a special bond. The two would attend Mass on Saturday nights before heading to Catholic HV events together. Dominick can always rely on Carl for a prayer. Dominick has notoriously said, "Carl is so quiet, but if you're paying attention to him, he's hilarious!" For these reasons and more, Dominick is honored to have him as a groomsman.

Carl Raymond Williams, Jr.

The Sweet One! From the first moment Michaela stepped foot in the Russo house, she felt warmly welcomed, especially by Regina. Regina, the oldest sister of the seven-sibling Russo-crew, is warm, kind, gentle spirited, and easygoing. Michaela very quickly learned that with Regina, you're guaranteed to laugh at all of her quirky work stories and memories of growing up with Dominick. Michaela is excited to finally be gaining two sisters, and is honored that Regina will witness her and Dominick's wedding as a bridesmaid.

Regina Marie Russo

The Quiet One! Having met on a pilgrimage to Italy, Chris and Dominick's friendship has been unique from the beginning. Chris and Dominick have known each other just about as long as Dominick and Michaela have. Chris is one of the most trustworthy and reliable people that Dominick knows. He has an extremely generous heart, and Dominick has said, "Michaela and my wedding day would not be complete without him." The bride and groom alike are happy to have Chris as a groomsman!

Christopher Michael Velardo

The Fighter! Michaela was immediately drawn to Anna, because Anna reminded Michaela of herself in one particular, bold way - they both learned how to fight for themselves in a male-dominated household. Anna is a strong-spirited, funny, quick-witted woman, who at a young age, achieved a lifetime of accomplishments. Michaela is excited for Anna to become one of two sisters-in-law and is sure that one day, Anna will be the fun aunt to her children.

Anna Maria Russo

The Twin-in-Law! Dominick can’t tell who’s more excited for the wedding, himself or Greg, Michaela's twin brother. Dominick and Greg's friendship formed quickly, providing Greg with yet another brother to play video games with. The two have often bonded over teasing Michaela. Dominick asked Greg to be a groomsman, because he's excited to add more brothers to the ranks. "My future twin-in-law! Seeing how much Gregory cares about his twin sister shows me how much I must care for her too."

Gregory Thomas Fox

The Partner in Crime! Lauren and Michaela. Michaela and Lauren. If ever laughter could ring, unrelenting in its joy, it is between this happy pair. When Michaela moved to Chicago, she moved away from home and her relationship. It was a slow process to feel at-home in a place so far away from everything Michaela always knew and loved. When she met Lauren, though, everything changed. With Lauren, it was easy. The bride affectionately reflects on their friendship, saying, "No one laughs the way Lauren does, and when I'm with her, my joy comes alive, too! When we pray, it's real. When we talk, it's honest. I love our friendship, and I couldn't imagine Dominick and my special day without her."

Lauren Marie Mercugliano

The DJ! Dominick finds Michaela’s younger brother, Andrew, immensely fun to be around and particularly enjoys Andrew's taste in music. Getting to know Andrew helped Dominick to truly feel like a member of the Fox family. His favorite memory with Andrew is when he joined the happy couple for burgers in New York City. After many rambunctious game nights and with a shared love for sports, Dominick is excited to call Andrew a brother.

Andrew James Fox

"A father, a brother, a friend, in one person." As Michaela's spiritual director and a dear friend to both the bride and groom, there was no one else Michaela and Dominick would rather have celebrate their wedding than Father Michael Connolly himself. There is no contest - the wedding is bound to be brighter, happier, and funnier with Father Connolly on the scene. He never fails to bring a genuine smile to the faces of all who see him. With his unique sense of humor, welcoming demeanor, and richness of faith, the couple couldn't be more excited to share in the Sacrament of Matrimony, witnessed by such a wonderful friend. Alleluia, amen! He is truly loved! In Father's words, "Praise be to Jesus Christ, now and forever. Amen."

Father Michael Connolly

Those We Love

The Wedding Party

"End with a Dance!"

There will be a brief period of cultural dancing at the wedding reception. The couple invites all guests to participate in their own way, but if they wish to learn the traditional choreography to some iconic dances from around the world, these quick videos will teach the moves! It is highly recommended to learn the dances below! The first demonstrates original choreography to a popular song for all to enjoy!

Original Traditional Folk-Inspired Choreography for Our Wedding on July 6, 2025!

Ed Sheeran's Nancy Mulligan

One of the most iconic dances of a Scottish Ceilidh is called the Gay Gordon. This quick video will teach this traditional Scottish Ceilidh dance!

Scottish Ceilidh

Another traditional Scottish dance commonly performed during a Ceilidh. This dance has inspired dances known as "grapevines" across cultures. This quick video demonstrates how to perform the dance!

Strip the Willow

Polka is extremely popular in Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland, but it has made its way to America because of its simple, yet eye-catching maneuvers. If interested in participating in the Polka, guests can learn how in this quick video!

Michaela Elise & Dominick Joseph

Michaela Elise & Dominick Joseph

The Special Day!

The Special Day! coming soon!