A Whimsical Garden Party Wedding at Cape May's Congress Hall

A couple brought their 'Garden Party by the Sea' vision to life at Congress Hall in Cape May, New Jersey, with a spring wedding that blended whimsy and elegance. Inspired by pink and green florals, the theme was carried through every detail-from bridesmaid dresses in a Lula Kate Lilly of the Valley print to custom watercolor designs by artist Julie King. The sailcloth tent on Congress Hall’s Grand Lawn became a dreamy backdrop for the reception, adorned with floral statement pieces, including a chandelier over the dance floor and flowers lining the band’s stage.

## The Proposal and Planning

After five years of dating, the couple got engaged in February 2023 during a trip to Scottsdale, Arizona, where they were cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVII. Though the Eagles lost that year, they made up for it by winning Super Bowl LIX in February 2025, just months before the wedding. The proposal, combined with the Super Bowl excitement, made for a memorable weekend for the football-loving couple.

The bride’s wedding gown, the Limka by Mira Zwillinger, was a standout choice. Purchased at Elizabeth Johns Bridal Couture in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, the strapless dress featured 3D floral appliqués that perfectly matched the garden party aesthetic. The bride also wore a matching veil and Loubigirl strappy sandals from Christian Louboutin’s bridal collection. The groom and wedding party complemented the theme with coordinated attire, creating a cohesive look.

## The Reception and Special Touches

The reception featured three signature cocktails, each with a fruity twist:

| Cocktail Name | Ingredients | |------------------------|--------------------------------------| | Blackberry Bramble Spritz | Gin, blackberries, lemon, prosecco | | Strawberry Mule | Vodka, strawberry, ginger beer | | Dragonfruit Lemonade | Non-alcoholic |

Appetizers included hummus, eggplant caviar, artichoke, cheese, and charcuterie. The wedding cake was a playful rainbow sprinkle funfetti with Oreo filling and buttercream frosting, a departure from traditional bridal cakes.

The couple added personal touches throughout the day, including welcome bags with local Cape May snacks, like fudge from The Fudge Kitchen, and a Mister Softee ice cream truck for late-night dessert. Artist Julie King’s custom designs, such as a wedding crest and a painting of Congress Hall, were featured on everything from napkins to cigar bands. The bride’s mother even needlepointed a ring bearer pillow with the crest, creating a cherished keepsake.

Congress Hall, a historic seaside resort with ties to former presidents and even a feature in the Oscar-nominated film *A Complete Unknown*, provided the perfect setting. The couple’s love for Cape May, where the bride’s family has a summer home, made the venue even more meaningful. The grand lawn overlooking the ocean set the stage for a magical celebration, complete with dancing to hits from Taylor Swift and Bruce Springsteen-and even the Philadelphia Eagles’ Fight Song.