Jen Gray & Lisa Cacciabaudo

Draw inspiration from their local celebration.

Jen Gray and Lisa Cacciabaudo wedding

Photograph by JOYELLE WEST Photography

October 5, 2014
Lyman Estate
Waltham, Massachusetts

Jen Gray and Lisa Cacciabaudo’s courtship was like a modern fairy tale—for those who appreciate the power of all things edible, that is. As with most successful relationships, it started with common interests—in this case, cheese, an item listed as a mutual favorite when the pair connected on the dating website OkCupid. Next came the first date, where, in lieu of roses, Lisa impressed Jen with a stalk of celery, valiantly plucked from behind the bar to sate Jen’s hunger pangs as they waited for a coveted outdoor table at Legal Harborside. A picturesque evening followed. “It was sunset, it was a gorgeous summery evening—with pinks and oranges in the sky—it was very romantic,” Lisa remembers. “It was clear that we were super-connected and had a lot in common.”

Four whirlwind months later, a proposal was on the horizon. It, too, had a snackable bent. Jen had scored seats at the 2013 World Series, much to the delight of Lisa, a huge Sox fan. As she stocked up on beers and snacks while Lisa waited in the stands, Jen decided the time was right and got resourceful with a Twizzler, fashioning it into a sugary, chewy ring. “I said yes, and then ate the ring,” Lisa says.

In keeping with the rest of the romance, planning the wedding was quite stress free, with the
couple opting to celebrate at the picturesque Lyman Estate. Naturally, Jen notes, the food reflected their love story: “Of course, we had to have an amazing cheese display.”

Jen Gray and Lisa Cacciabaudo wedding

Photograph by JOYELLE WEST Photography

The couple’s first dance was to “I Choose You,” by Sara Bareilles. The song was also performed by the Keros String Quartet during the processional.

Jen Gray and Lisa Cacciabaudo wedding

Photograph by JOYELLE WEST Photography

With an emphasis on rustic greenery, the floral centerpieces were arranged in antique card catalog boxes.

Jen Gray and Lisa Cacciabaudo wedding

Photograph by JOYELLE WEST Photography

Petite succulents in glass vessels did double duty as escort cards and party favors.

Jen Gray and Lisa Cacciabaudo wedding

Photograph by JOYELLE WEST Photography

Initially, Lisa and Jen had both planned to walk down the aisle in traditional white gowns. But when Jen spotted a fitted navy Monique Lhuillier dress while bridesmaid-dress shopping, she decided she wanted to wear it herself instead.

Jen Gray and Lisa Cacciabaudo wedding

Photograph by JOYELLE WEST Photography

Festooned with fresh orchids and garden roses, the couple’s mango-passion fruit cake was filled with key-lime curd, fresh mango coulis, and toasted-coconut-passion-fruit meringue buttercream.

 

The File

Brides’ Gowns Judd Waddell, Allegria Bridal (Lisa); Monique Lhuillier, Allegria Bridal (Jen)
Bridesmaid Dresses Amsale, Allegria Bridal
Cake Jenny’s Wedding Cakes
Caterer Capers Catering
Ceremony Music Keros String Quartet
Flowers Orly Khon Floral
Invitations Albertine Press
Lighting Designlight
Planner Jenny McClain
Reception Music Groove Authority
Tent Décor New England Country Rentals

 

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