Love In the Heart of New York City

Hopeless romantics on the streets of the city that never sleeps

The New York City sweethearts, Samantha and Alex, dreamed of a wedding day that would forever remain in their hearts. Their love story feels like destiny—almost as if an invisible hand gently guided them to find one another. What began as a spark in 2021 soon blossomed into a love so strong naturally leading them to take the next big step. Through Kristin Piteo’s lens, Samantha and Alex share their precious moments against the unstoppable energy of the city that never sleeps.

Love In the Heart of New York City

^{The Day We Met}

Alex and I had unknowingly crossed paths before meeting one night in the spring of 2021 at our favorite Israeli restaurant. At the time, I lived above 12 Chairs Café, and one evening, I went down to take out my trash and also meet my friend Vick for a Sunday night drink. Alex had the same Sunday night plan (minus taking out the trash). We ended up sitting together with our friends at our usual table. We bonded over our Michigan connection. I grew up there and attended MSU, while Alex went to the University of Michigan. We’ve since set aside our football rivalry and learned to root for each other’s alma maters.

^{Our Engagement Story}

Given our shared love of travel and dining out, Alex knew the best way to surprise me with a proposal was to pop the question on an otherwise mundane Sunday evening at home. He asked my sister to keep me busy on FaceTime while he snuck flowers and champagne into the house. We went up to our terrace, and after exchanging a funny heart-to-heart, Alex proposed, and I said yes. We celebrated over Chinese takeout, our Sunday night tradition.

^{Our Special Day Highlights}

Alex was born and raised in the city. It’s where we met, fell in love, and built our life together. Nothing compares to having our wedding in Manhattan, with New York City as a main character in our big day, just as it has been in our relationship. We were surrounded by all of our closest friends and family in the city we love. Everything was very ‘us’ – traditionally nontraditional. We were married at Shun Lee, an iconic Chinese restaurant that is a piece of the city and also a tradition in our own home. The night was filled with incredible food, dancing, and no rules – exactly what a night out in Manhattan should be!

^{Our Style}

I wore a Danielle Frankel set. Choosing pants over a dress wasn’t initially the plan, but it ended up being an easy decision. I’m more of a pant girl, so it just felt right. I wanted something non-traditional that gave off “cool girl” and “city chic” vibes, and it perfectly fit the venue. I only visited Danielle Frankel’s studio and didn’t look anywhere else. I love that she’s a NYC designer, and her pieces really captured that “effortlessly cool while still classic” look I was going for. My shoes were pointed toe slingback Dior. They had this beautiful ribbing texture that in a way, picked up the texture on the Danielle Frankel top. For my second look, I changed into a red sequin Rodarte gown. I loved the idea of something totally different and even a bit shocking.

Alex wore an Isaia suit, shirt, and tie. He wanted something he could wear again, but was truly the epitome of Italian luxury designer. The handcrafted tailoring, and the highest quality fabric aside – the pop of red is something that made it so special. To add a modern, editorial twist, he paired the suit with YSL loafers.