Their Wedding: The Art Factory, Paterson New Jersey
Jillian and Gene could not have had a wedding that was any more “them”! Their wedding over at The Art Factory in Patterson, NJ was absolutely awesome! The cool, colorful vibe of the day was totally cohesive with their personalities and I loved that it was felt genuinely like them. Their quirky, hand-drawn crayon style invitations, custom drinking glass favors, and all of the intricate details made this day perfect for them. Everything about this wedding was fun and unique. We even got to take some portraits over at the Paterson Falls, which had an incredibly stunning waterfall view. This day was totally incredible and who Jillian and Gene are made it even better! When we were talking about preparing for their day, Jillian told me that she was hoping to have a day that captured them. She said, “As a not-so-traditional pair of people, we are excited to host what we hope will be a really fun experience for our guests.” They definitely accomplished that and more. I adore these two and loved so much being a part of their day and the celebration of their marriage!
Their Love Story
Jillian and Gene met when they were attending college at NYU. As Jillian tells it, “He and I both lived in themed housing in our dorm. The theme was “International House” and we would host a lot of international themed events to get into the themed house spirit. Gene would throw a movie night each Wednesday. For some reason, the event wasn’t popular, so he and I would be the only attendees. Gene and I were just friends at this time, and he went to law school after graduating. Cut to two years later, I am starting my senior year of college and thinking about law school myself. Coincidentally, I bumped into Gene on the sidewalk – turns out, he had transferred back to NYU for his second year of law school. We started chatting online, I mentioned I was considering becoming a paralegal, and he suggested we meet up for coffee. We ended up spending nine hours together catching up, and the rest is history!”
Their proposal story is a great one too! Jillian told me, “Gene and I planned a big trip to Scotland to visit my little brother (who goes to St Andrews), see my dad’s mom’s hometown, and generally explore. I was not expecting a proposal because Gene specifically told me he wouldn’t propose to me on a vacation. (He was smart to do this – I love figuring out surprises, and had he not said anything I probably would have discovered the surprise). We made our way to the Isle of Skye for the last leg of our journey and decided to hike up to the Fairy Pools to have a picnic – something we did on our last vacation and really enjoyed. We got to the top of the Fairy Pool area and had a picnic on a rock in the middle of the stream. After eating, we watched the sun come out from behind the clouds. Gene turned to me and said “you know, I really think we should get married.” I started to cry and he pulled out the ring- it was so sweet and perfect for us!” I love that Gene did such a great job of surprising her, and what a beautiful & memorable way to do so. A proposal in Scotland?! Definitely an unforgettable story!
To the Newlyweds
Jillian and Gene, thank you so much for including me in such an important part of your lives. I loved every second of it, and you two are just the absolute best! Your fun, creative spirits are so inspiring and a joy to be around! I am SO excited to have shared these memories with you! You both were a blast to work with and your day couldn’t have been more incredible! Wishing you endless love and joy in your marriage and all the adventures to still come! xoxo
The Vendor Team
2nd Photographer| Fabiana Skubic
Photo Assistant| Tori Kelner
Ceremony / Reception Venue |The Art Factory
Wedding Planner / Coordinator | Merida from Events by Merida
Dress Designer | Enaura
Dress Boutique | Kleinfeld Bridal
Shoes |Badgley Mischka
Hair Stylist |The Bridal Artistry Co: Mariel Lajterman and Team
Makeup Artist | The Bridal Artistry Co: Mariel Lajterman and Team
Wedding Rings | Alex Nalbandian
Decor | The Art Factory
DJ/Music/Entertainment | The Party Shop by Silver Pro Entertainment
Florist | Unni at Lodi Flowers
Videographer | Tim at Studio94
Bridesmaids’ Dresses | Birdy Grey and BHLDN
Groom Attire | Sal Lauretta
Groom Bowtie | Brackish Bowties
Groomsmen Attire | Stitch & Tie
Officiant | Richard Hendler
Invitations | Eva Darron
Favors | Grand Stand
Taiwanese Shaved Ice | Snowdays
Ice Cream Sandwiches | Gelotti’s
Photobooth | Booth By Demand
Cocktail Hour | Caracas Bar
