September 29, 2018 | Kelly Louise Photography
Nicole & Jodi
The Meet Cute: One simple “hey” on Plenty of Fish was all it took. “We
spent the next few weeks getting to know each other over e-mails and
texts,” says Nicole. After Jodi eventually demanded an on-the-spot date
at a local bar, they each arrived early out of nerves. “When I got there,
I settled up to the bar, made friends with the bartender and sampled
multiple shot-sized tastings of their local craft beers… All while Jodi waited
in the parking lot. Oops,” Nicole laughs. When Jodi realized Nicole was
already inside, she walked in to find her at the bar with what looked like
ten empty shots. Nevertheless, the two clicked over the next few hours.
“Before we knew it, it was last call. By the time we said our goodbyes, we
both knew this was going to be something more,” Nicole says.
The Engagements: Jodi planned to propose first, realizing the couple’s
annual Fourth of July trip to Jamestown was the perfect opportunity.
After arriving and unpacking the car, Jodi attempted to have a heart-
to-heart while Nicole’s main focus was eating lunch. Realizing she was
getting nowhere, Jodi eventually asked for a hug. As soon as Nicole
stood up, Jodi immediately dropped to her knee. “We were able to
share an incredible moment,” Nicole says. “She had put so much time
and thought not into just the day, but also the ring, a uniquely personal
design using her mother’s engagement ring.”
The second proposal took place just over a year later during a different
vacation to Newport, when Nicole surprised Jodi with a helicopter ride
over to the mansions and popped the question while they were in the
air. Once they landed, the brides-to-be went to Newport Vineyards for
a celebratory cocktail.
The Venue: The couple’s number one priority was the meal selection.
“With Providence being a foodie city, we knew there were a lot of options,
but Waterman Grille’s menu was above and beyond,” says Nicole. “They
allowed our guests to select and customize their meals while at the
reception, which took a lot of additional efforts off our plate.” Plus, the
venue is in a prime location. “We had access to a beautiful patio for
cocktail hour and an elegant dining area with gorgeous views of the
Providence River,” she adds.
The Aisle Thoughts: “This was one of those moments I played out in
my mind time and time again leading up to the day,” says Jodi. “The
moment she turned the corner and we locked eyes, I was overwhelmed
with happiness. It was the feeling of knowing I was home for good; that
anything I’d face in life, good or bad, she’d be with me through it all.”
The Highlights: “The half hour between photos and being announced at
the reception. We sat in the limo and popped our first bottle of champagne
as Mrs. and Mrs., cheersed to the first few hours of our next chapter and
soaked in every moment together before walking in. It was nice to have
a little bit of time alone and appreciate everything taking place.” — Jodi
“The moment we were announced Mrs. and Mrs. at our ceremony. There
is so much build up throughout planning and the day itself that, in that
particular moment, it all comes together. Not only were we excited, but
to turn and look out at our guests and see them smiling and cheering
us on, you could truly feel the excitement and love resonating. It was a
powerful moment.” — Nicole
134 | ENGAGED IN SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND 2020