Full Names
Sydney Harwood & Rob Harwood
Occupations
Sydney — Senior Communications Manager
Rob — Vice President of Business Development
Cultural Backgrounds
Sydney — American (Russian & Polish mother, Israeli, Russian, & Polish father)
Rob — American (Slovaki, German & Polish mother, Italian, English & German father)
Where & How Did You Meet?
On a fateful Saturday afternoon in April 2016, we walked into The Standard Biergarten. I was with my girlfriends, and Rob was with his guy friends. We both happened to be wearing Stan Smith sneakers that day. Interestingly, we had mutual friends—our best friends had dated each other in college—and we hit it off right away.
Where Did You Get Married & Why Did You Pick That Location?
We exchanged vows in the heart of New York City, specifically opting for the quaint courtyard of the Ludlow Hotel for our Friday ceremony, followed by an intimate dinner at Dirty French. Choosing NYC was a no-brainer for us; it symbolizes the beginning of our love story and holds countless cherished memories for both of us and our loved ones.
The decision to have our reception at Cathédrale was deliberate, as we sought out a venue that exuded uniqueness and offered a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable celebration. Looking back, we couldn’t be happier with our choices; both venues perfectly encapsulated our vision and contributed to the magic of our special day.
What Was The Most Important Thing To Each Of You When Planning Your Wedding?
For us, the pivotal focus in our wedding planning was shaping an experience that authentically reflected our unique bond as a couple. We were determined to veer away from conventional norms, ensuring that every facet of the weekend—from the ceremonies to the receptions—radiated our essence and allowed all attendees to revel in the festivities.
Having immersed ourselves in the vibrant culture of NYC for almost a decade, our love for exceptional culinary adventures and thrilling nights out profoundly influenced our decision-making process. We were unwavering in our quest to select venues that not only exuded uniqueness but also promised outstanding culinary delights. Our exceptional wedding planner, Rachel Behar, played a pivotal role in translating our vision into reality.
Collaborating closely with Buds of Brooklyn, together we curated exquisite floral moments that seamlessly complemented each venue’s distinct ambiance while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic throughout. On Saturday, we spared no effort in ensuring an unforgettable celebration, with Jason Fioto spinning accompanied by live instruments, Jason Suran (known for performing at Speakeasy Magick at The McKittrick Hotel) enchanting guests with his performances, and an epic ice luge from Okamoto Studio, all contributing to an atmosphere of pure jubilation. Ultimately, our objective was clear: to fashion a wedding weekend that was a true reflection of ourselves, where every moment overflowed with joy, excitement, and indelible memories.
What Does Family Mean To You?
For us, family holds irreplaceable significance. Opting for a small, intimate ceremony on Friday allowed us to truly cherish and revel in the most precious moments alongside our loved ones. It’s in these shared experiences and quality time together that the true essence of family shines brightest.
What Tips Would You Give To A Couple Planning Their Wedding?
When diving into wedding planning, early birds truly catch the worm! Starting as soon as possible alleviates stress down the line. While having a fantastic planner was a blessing, we found joy in the journey itself. It’s a unique experience shared with your partner, so embrace the fun along the way. Plus, open communication with everyone involved ensures smooth sailing on the big day.
