Let the good times keep rolling…. It was our honor to celebrate our third wedding of the year at the Berkley Manor in the marriage of Michael and Janelle Chojnowski. It was a wonderful feeling being able to do what we love best – coordinating joyous occasions such as weddings. Congratulations Janelle and Mike!
On Saturday, August 22, twelve weeks following their original wedding date, Janelle and Michael were able to carry out their wedding dreams becoming husband and wife before their family and friends at the Berkley Manor. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, the couple’s spring wedding date was not possible. However, with the understanding, flexibility, and support of their family and friends, we were able to reschedule and carry forth this past weekend. With much anticipation and excitement going into the wedding weekend, every detail turned out perfect and just as originally planned. Both families had rented accommodations on the Berkley property, which allowed them to be on-site and in easy access of all that was planned. Each morning the Zillies team had a lovely continental breakfast ready for the family in the Berkley dining room. While the OcracokeStyle team set up for the rehearsal dinner and wedding reception, Janelle and Mike were able to enjoy time with their guests around Ocracoke village and at the beach. Friday evening included a ceremony rehearsal followed by a beautiful rehearsal dinner in the Berkley Barn. As a way to practice COVID-19 safety guidelines, the tables were spaced well over 6’ apart with only 4 guests seated per table. With the size of the barn, it was nice to be able to spread guests apart and put everyone’s feelings at ease. Saturday was wedding day, and it turned out perfectly. There was sunshine without a drop of rain and a sound breeze off the water kept the temperature on the cooler side. Janelle chose to have a more private, intimate ceremony with services taking place near the barn. Guests sat just before the steps leading up to the barn with Michael, Janelle, the officiant and wedding party at the top of the stairs facing down. It was beautiful. Following the ceremony, guests socialized around the barn deck during happy hour and Jake Orr Photography was able to escape with the bride and groom for a few classic photos around Ocracoke village. The evening continued with delicious catering prepared by Zillies, music by DJ Julio Morales, toasts/speeches, cake and dancing. It was very heartwarming to witness Janelle and Mike be able to join hands in marriage just as originally planned with their family and friends. We felt honored to be their wedding venue and part of this magical day.
The three weddings we have been able to be part of this year have each been beautiful in their own unique way. We look forward to being able to continue to celebrate weddings and other special events in the new year.
