Samantha & Joey: love at first sight

How did the two of you meet? 

My sister's husband has been life long friends with Joey and his brothers. So I've known his brothers for years and he's known my sister for years, but the two of us were never at the same functions together. When the guys were at his brother's bachelor party I saw a picture of Joey and immediately called my sister to find out what this guy was all about. Two weeks later at the wedding, my sister Arielle did all the matchmaking and I received a message of him the next day. At the time I lived in NYC and he lived in Ft. Lauderdale. I flew down for our first date, which went extremely well. So much that our second date was my family Passover seder the next evening. It was love at first sight! Joey moved to NYC 6 months later and we have been inseparable ever since.

How did you know he/she was the one?

The timing of our entire relationship was so perfect, we have always called each other our bashert. Everything is so easy and comfortable, it is just a solid connection that can't be broken. It's a feeling that is indescribable. 

What did you want your ketubah to tell about your love story?

We chose the tree of life because of everything it represents. Life the tree of life, our love will last an eternity long after we are living. This was the most beautiful artwork we had seen and both knew it would be our ketubah.

What is the most important value as a foundation for your marriage and why?

It is difficult to choose just one value, there are so many factors to building a strong relationship. We both value the trust and open communication that we have built in our relationship. 

What advice would you give to other couples just starting the wedding planning process?

This is your special day so follow your heart and do what makes you happy. Planning a wedding can be stressful but if you stay true to yourselves you will have the day of your dreams. 

What was your favorite moment of the wedding day?

We both agree that our favorite moment was when we pronounced husband and wife and then walked the aisle hand in hand under falling confetti. There are so many moments we will cherish, like getting ready with our families and doing the hora. It is so hard to choose just one!

Tell me something that happened at your wedding or wedding planning that you wouldn’t want published in the New York Times 

I danced the entire night, I really don't think I missed one song on the dance floor. I had the time of my life. I was on such an adrenaline rush that I didn't go to the lady's room once. So from the moment I got into my dress to the moment we got back to our hotel about 12 hours had passed and I still hadn't gone, but we were so excited that we went to our suite and jumped up and down on the bed, me in my gown and Joey in his tux, celebrating the best night ever!

Wedding photos by Colin Hutton, Jewelwing Photography.