Thanks to all that responded. We are so looking forward to our special day which has arrived!!!!
Marianne Ruggiero
Brian McNamee
Marianne Ruggiero
Brian McNamee
October 13, 2024
Yes he finally did it in one of the most romantic places on earth. Trevi Fountain in Italy. Marianne was a little bit surprised.
How we met
Brian joined a new team in 2000 at Merrill Lynch and all Marianne kept hearing about was this new guy Brian McNamee, who is going to join the team shortly. Fast forward a few weeks later, Brian goes to his first in person meeting. Marianne joins the meeting and happens to sit right next to Brian. During meeting introductions, Marianne introduces herself and Brian introduces himself. Marianne says in front of the entire room “you’re Brian McNamee? I’ve heard a lot about you.” Not knowing who she was or why she was surprised, he said, “ yes, it’s a pleasure to meet you” with an awkward laugh. We have been together ever since.
Engagement Night Trevi Fountain
Once we booked the trip to Italy to see Bruce, Brian knew thats where he would ask Marianne to marry him. It started with the ring which Howie and Lillian helped find in January. Once I got the ring, a few months before our trip in May of 2023 I made sure I spoke to Mariannes family to secure their blessing. Sharon, Ron, Tommy, Mia and Marissa were so excited. Then I brought in Tracy and eventually Chris to help with pictures and video the night of the engagement. I knew Marianne had no idea about the engagement, because she wanted to wear white sketchers to dinner the night of the proposal in Rome. I talked her out of it. We had a great meal and starting walking to Trevi Fountain around 10 pm Italy time. I heard Tracy tell Becky and Dave about what was about to go down on the way to the fountain. I didn’t become nervous until we got to the fountain and I saw about 800 people standing around the fountain. We made our way down to a perfect spot on the bottom row and while Marianne had her back turned looking for a coin I got down on one knee and she turned around and before I could say anything she looked at me and said “What are you doing?”. 😎. You can see the rest on the video and how the girls were able to see it live and we called Sharon and Ron while at the fountain. The night of the Bruce show the next day we met up with the whole friend crew and told everyone that night. Amazing night and so happy I was able to keep the biggest secret ever.
Wedding Day Schedule
Saturday, October 12, 2024
Rehearsal Dinner
6:00 pm - 9:15 pm
400 Ocean Ave, Belmar, NJ 07719
Casual
Bridal party will be at Avon pavilion at 5:15 PM for the wedding rehearsal. This will be followed by a rehearsal dinner at 6 PM right down the street in Belmar at La Dolce Vita. Several additional invited guests who will be local on Saturday besides the bridal party will be joining us for dinner. Please look for an invite from Brian and Marianne to the rehearsal dinner.
Sunday, October 13, 2024
Wedding Ceremony
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Boardwalk, Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ
Wedding ceremony is located on Avon boardwalk across the street from The Columns
Wedding Reception
5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
601 Ocean Avenue, Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ 07717
Semi formal
Get ready for a party Jersey shore style
After Party
Sun, Oct 13, 2024, 9:00 pm - Mon, Oct 14, 2024, 12:00 am
210 Fifth Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ 07712
Casual
For those who can power through an after party at the asbury hotel outside deck weather permitting from 9-12. Bar is scheduled to be open and a few guests including bride and groom will be staying at the hotel.
Monday, October 14, 2024
Brunch
10:30 am - 12:00 pm
700 Main Street, Bradley Beach, NJ 07720
Casual
For those staying over please join us the morning after for breakfast at one if the best breakfast places at the shore
FAQs
Question
Whats the dress code?
Answer
Dress code is semi formal, tie for men is optional. Please be comfortable and check the weather and come ready to have a good time on our special day.
Question
Any recommendations on hotels?
Answer
Check the travel section of the website. We didn’t expect enough interest in rooms to secure blocks of rooms. The Asbury hotel is close by and newer but probably a bit more expensive than The Berkeley. Airbnb may be an option as places in Ocean grove and Belmar may be more affordable off season.
Question
Where should I park?
Answer
Free parking is available along Ocean ave and near the Columns restaurant. A charity race is scheduled for the 13th that is expected to be completed by 1 PM. Please look for parking in and around Avon anytime after 2 pm as most of the race activities should be cleared up.
Question
Can I bring a date?
Answer
Please refer to the formal invitation which should be mailing in the coming weeks.
Question
Is the wedding indoors or outdoors?
Answer
The wedding ceremony is planned for outdoors across the street from the Columns. Cocktail hour will also be on the Columns porch.
Question
I have a food allergy, can I make a special request?
Answer
Yes please let Brian or Marianne know and mention the allergy on your invitation request as well. We will make a best effort to try and address the request with the Columns.
Question
Is their assigned seating?
Answer
No assigned seating. Tables will be located on the porch of the Columns with an excellent view of the Atlantic ocean. Tables will be available on the porch during dinner and we encourage everyone to mingle and enjoy the meal and the view. Some invited guests will have reserved seat inside.
Question
How will food be served?
Answer
Food will be served buffet style at the back porch and tables for dinner will be on the porch. Enjoy the view.
Question
Any after hours parties?
Answer
Yes, when the wedding ends we plan on heading to the Asbury Hotel rooftop bar which is open till 12.
Question
Is it an open bar?
Answer
Yes, open bar. Please don’t forget to bring some cash for our bartenders. We always want to take care of the staff. Thanks.
Registry
Travel
Hotel
The Asbury Hotel
Please call hotel or book directly through asbury hotel website to avoid excessive fees
Hotel
Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel
Wedding Party
Marianne Ruggiero
Bride
Brian McNamee
Groom
Sharon Good
Matron of Honor
Marianne’s seester!!!
Mia Ruggiero
Bridesmaid
Marianne’s niece
Katie McNamee
Best Woman
Brian’s first daughter who lights up the room with her laugh.
Allyson McNamee
Best Woman
Brian’s youngest daughter who is special on the inside and outside.
Honorable Larry P. DeBello
Officiant
Barton McNamee
Usher
Brother of the groom!!!!
Ron Good
Usher
Brother in law of Marianne