Bridal Shower:
My bridal shower was planned by my best friend Elise and my mother. They obviously couldn't surprise me since I lived in Florida and everyone else was in the Metro New York area. I decided that I wanted an afternoon tea with pastries, scones, finger sandwiches and a large variety of teas. The shower was held on August 24, 1996 at the Stanhope Hotel's restaurant. They had a small room in front which they allowed us to take over for the afternoon. The china was Limoges which added elegance and beauty to the meal. Twenty-five friends and family members were in attendance. We had an enjoyable meal, opened the presents, and spent time talking and catching up with one another.

Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties:
As Maid of Honor, my sister Ranee planned my Bachelorette Party on the Friday night before my wedding. I left all of the planning up to her.

The bachelor party was planned by Jared's brother Steven, the Best Man, and was held the Friday night prior to the wedding.

The Wedding Reception:

The reception was planned to immediately follow the ceremony in the Alger Mansion. As the ceremony ended, the chairs were removed and tables set up for the meal. Guests were ushered to the other side of the space for the cocktail hour. During the cocktail hour we had hors d'oeuvres passed butler style and a few crudités platters available. The bar was opened at this time. Afterwards we had a three-hour brunch reception, buffet-style. The menu included omelettes prepared a la minute, a pasta station and a beautiful salmon, in addition to breads and muffins.