Whitehouse Station, New Jersey
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Colleen and Garrett’s wedding day at Ryland Inn was the perfect celebration of a relationship built on commitment, adventure, and nearly a decade of love. Despite an unseasonably hot early-June day, the property was in full bloom,and beautiful golden light carried us from morning through sunset.
Their story began in classic New Jersey fashion: through mutual friends and rival high schools. They first met at a birthday party for one of Garrett’s hockey teammates and, after Colleen made the first move, the two quickly became inseparable. Even when college and junior league hockey took them in different directions, they made long distance work for seven years through countless road trips, weekend visits, and shared determination.
Today they call Hoboken home, but one of the most meaningful chapters of their story happened in fall of 2024 when Garrett proposed in Stellenbosch, South Africa. The ring itself was designed with platinum and three diamonds, including two heirloom stones from Garrett’s family, and was crafted by Ferdinand Jewelers in New Providence, a place that has been part of Colleen’s life since childhood.
Wedding day preparations took place in Ryland Inn’s cottages before the couple shared a private first look and personal vows along the drive leading toward the Grand Ballroom — a quiet, windswept moment before the celebration officially began. One of my favorite parts of the day was getting to photograph Colleen and Garrett with a few equine guests around the property! As someone who first fell in love with photography while taking pictures of horses when I was a teenager ago, it was such a special full-circle moment.
Their ceremony, officiated by Garrett’s step-sister, was heartfelt and personal, surrounded by the people who have supported them throughout their journey together. Afterward, we explored the grounds for portraits in the evening light before heading inside for the reception. Just as the celebration got underway, a powerful summer storm rolled through, bringing thunder and heavy rain outside. Thankfully, everyone was safely indoors, dancing and celebrating the night away.
From the meaningful family heirlooms to the golden sunset portraits and unforgettable summer-esque weather, Colleen and Garrett’s wedding day was filled with so much joy and love. Congratulations to the new Mr. and Mrs. McGowan!
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Vendors:
Photography: Jill Sahner Photography
Venue: Ryland Inn
Videography: Bernardi Films
Hair & Makeup: Michelle Elise Artistry
Florals: The Hidden Daisy Floral
DJ: SCE Event Group, Jeff Scott Gould
Cake: Palermo’s Bakery
Dress Designer: Caroline Castigliano
Bridal Boutique: The Bridal Atelier Montclair
Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie
Groom & Groomsmen Attire: State & Liberty
Rings: Ferdinand Jewelers
