Madeline Mikucki and Marcin Opalko didn’t cross paths in college, at a café, or during some sort of meet-cute Broadway spectacular. Instead, they met in the way that many couples do nowadays…online.
When Marcin dropped to one knee in January 2017, he proved just how well he knew his soon-to-be fiancé by bringing her to the most magical place (and her favorite place) in the world. As soon as the fireworks began to light up the sky at Disney World, he popped the question.
“I was a bawling mess, of course, but it couldn’t have been more perfect, since I love Disney so much,” Madeline enthuses. “To have my family there with me made it even more special.”
Madeline, a Hudson Valley local, was already familiar with The Grandview through her job as Digital Ad Trafficker for Today Media Inc., the parent company of Hudson Valley Magazine. Located on the Poughkeepsie waterfront, The Grandview offers stunning views of the Hudson River outdoors, plus a grand ballroom setting for ceremonies and cocktail hours indoors.
“I knew going into it the location was perfect, the views were to die for, and the food was delicious,” she explains. To make the most of the riverside setting, the couple chose to use the venue’s outdoor tent for the afterparty.
The couple said “I do” on Saturday, September 29, 2018, on a warm autumn afternoon. After a ceremony at Our Lady of the Lake / Mount Carmel Church in Carmel, the wedding party relocated to The Grandview for a Gatsby-esque reception.
“I love the 1920s, so we went with it,” Madeline says. Instead of going over the top with the theme, the couple added subtle touches to the bouquets, centerpieces, and table numbers. The cake, made by The Grandview, was a golden, tiered affair finished with a glamorous titular topper that declared “Mr. & Mrs. Opalko.” A swanky cigar bar, vintage baubles, and a floor-length lace dress added to the Gilded Age ambiance.
In true Roaring ‘20s fashion, the evening was a blur of greeting, drinking, dancing, and eating.
“I don’t think people realize that it goes so quickly,” Madeline says. Luckily, The Grandview staff were on-hand to help the newlyweds make the most of the whirlwind occasion.
“[The staff] were truly amazing. They had everything down to the tiniest detail, and we even got doggy bags to bring back to the hotel,” she gushes. “It was an amazing day, and one that I will never forget.”
Vendors
Invitation: Shutterfly
Florist: Adams Fairacre Farms (Wappingers Falls) for centerpieces / Etsy for bouquets
Photographer: EID Photography
Dress and accessories: Majesty Bridal
Bride Shoes: Badgley Mischka via Macy’s
Tux: Men’s Wearhouse
Groom Shoes: Macy’s
Rings: Kay Jewelers
Hair and Makeup: Gianetta Salon
Band: A Perfect Blend Entertainment
