How did Lexi propose? We had both been shopping for rings and I always knew I wanted to propose, and I had a big plan for May 2012—but she figured me out. We had a girls’ weekend planned in May to travel to Antigua with our moms and spend a weekend together. My mom and I had it all planned out—she was going to help me with the candles and the rose petals in our suite, etc. Well, in February, Kim says, ‘I know you’re going to propose in Antigua.’ So I needed a new plan and I needed it right away, because it was the only way I could surprise her! I put a rush on the ring (it was being specifically designed) and was ready to propose over the weekend in the Hamptons. I had quite a few proposal scenarios running through my head. But then I got a call from Kim, saying, ‘I’ve got a surprise for you!’ She had arranged for my best friend Cara to join us in the Hamptons! So I spent the weekend carrying the ring around in my bag and I proposed on Monday because I simply couldn’t wait any longer. I took her to dinner, forced her to order the lobster, her favorite, and ordered champagne – she pulled me close and said, ‘Is there someone else? Is that why you’re being so nice?’ We laughed and I fumbled to find the ring in my jacket that I’d refused to check at a 5-star restaurant and demanded that she marry me. Literally, I said, ‘Marry me!’ and the rest was history. A dozen Instagram photos and a few phone calls to our parents later, and we were engaged. I did have to ask her to actually say the word ‘yes’ about 15 minutes after she had the ring on her finger!
Standout Memory of the night: Of course, the stand out memory I have is our first look, to see my beautiful bride for the first time. She was absolutly stunning. Also the joy on the dance floor, the room was filled with such love and so much joy – everyone danced for hours it was so magical.
Honeymoon Location: We traveled to Bali and stayed at the Amankila and Amannusa – it was our first time staying at aman resorts and it was so perfect! We then traveled to the Philipines where we stayed at the Amanpulo, a private island, it was unbelievable! We finished our 2 week trip in Hong Kong – we had the most wonderful time!
One piece of advice that you could give to other couples: Personalize your wedding! Companies like Prop n Spoon make it so easy to add in little elements of surprise that can make your wedding stand out! Go for it – it is so magical to have a personal touch on a day all about you and your spouse! Enjoy the wedding – it flys by!! Also – we barely ate and we were so sad the following day – make sure to have your wedding planner pack a little to go food from the reception and place it in your hotel room!
What part did your dog play in your wedding? Our dog Izzy was our ring bearer. He is such a huge part of our life we wanted to make sure he didnt feel left out. Ok… we couldnt imagine the day without him! He made a surprise appearance at the end of the night, as well!
Why did you choose your destination location? Kim always dreamed of marrying at her parents home in Bridgehampton. For me, we met out there so it made so much sense – plus the property is gorgeous and it felt so right to have that memory be at the home of my in-laws – it was perfect and we are so grateful that the Stolz’s were such a huge support – having a wedding at your home can be stressful to say the least!
Tips for a destination wedding: When doing a destination wedding you want to make sure you have a good support team, a day of wedding planner, a rental company that cares and that will go above and beyond! Create your support team and learn to trust them! We had our rehearsal dinner at the Bridgehampton Inn a little bed and breakfast in town – it was a perfect night. My brother Chris Ritsch played guitar and sang some of our favorite songs.