Amidst the enchanting backdrop of New York City’s skyline, Mikala and Peter celebrated their love one mid-August afternoon, beneath the radiant glow of The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers. With the echoes of Taylor Swift’s melodies and the shimmer of Mikala’s Tara Lauren Gown, they etched their unique love story, culminating in a magical dance under the stars—a memory destined to linger for eternity.
Of her PALMER gown, Mikala said: “I specifically sought out the Palmer dress after a lot of wedding dress research online.There were no Tara Lauren retailers in NYC, so I began calling shops in the Northeast to see if they had the dress available to try on. Unfortunately, none of them carried it. Therefore, I took a risk and paid Allegria Bridal to have the dress shipped to the store for me to try on. Once it arrived, I took a four hour train from NYC to Boston and the rest was magic. I removed some of the train and created a belt out of the extra fabric. I loved how simplistic yet elevated this dress was. I truly never wanted to take it off.”
Names: Mikala & Peter
Wedding Date: 8.11.23
Guest Number: 160
Wedding Location: The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers, New York
Photographer: Jill Sahner
Tell Us Your Love Story
How did you meet?
We met in college in a coed business fraternity. Mikala was a division one athlete, while Peter was in the investment club. After college, we both moved to New York City and fell in love with the city.
How Did He Put A Ring On It?
We are season ticket holders to the New York Yankees. Every year, the Yankees host a season ticket holder day in the off-season where they invite all of the fans onto the field. For the event, there was a photographer stationed on home plate to take pictures, which is where Peter got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.
Where did you draw inspiration from?
We drew inspiration from all of the things that make us a couple. You will see the New York Yankees seating chart, which my dad and I built and created ourselves. There were maple syrup bottles on the tables, which were made and bottled by my dad. I grew up on a Christmas tree farm, which is where my dad tapped the maple trees. Also, I’m a big Taylor Swift fan and had elements of lyrics sprinkled in throughout the day.
What made the wedding personal to you?
We were married in our absolute favorite spot of New York City, which is where we call home. We were able to walk to the venue from our apartment. Our families are from very different areas of New York State, so having the wedding in a place the was unique to us as a couple, was very special. Also, one of my favorite details is that my grandmother embroidered “Peter and Mikala Forever” in her own handwriting on my veil.
What were you most nervous or excited about?
I was most excited about the venue being on the water in NYC. You could see the statue of liberty from the venue. Also, the venue had garage door windows, so our cocktail hour was half indoor and outdoor, which was absolutely incredible. Additionally, I was nervous for the weather since it was August in New York, but it was absolutely perfect.
Now, the most important part – the Dress!
Tell us about your dress?
I chose the Palmer gown because it fit the modern, classic bride look that I was going for.
What stockist did you get it from?
I purchased my dress from Allegria Bridal in Belmont, MA!
What was your most memorable moment from your day?
Since I am a Taylor Swift fan, we closed the dance floor with Love Story, and it was everything I’ve ever dreamed of. It started with Peter and I acting out the song, to a full on dance party with all of our guests to end the night.
Vendors to credit:
Photography JILL SAHNER // Venue THE PIER SIXTY COLLECTION // Videography DELIA STUDIOS // Florals SUPERIOR FLORIST LTD // Hair & Makeup BARBARA MAKEUP ARTIST NYC // DJ/Entertainment I RESERVE ENTERTAINMENT // Groom’s Tux ENZO CUSTOM