Hey brides-to-be, we’re here for your big day—not just with fabulous NJ wedding venues and amazing catering, but also with our entire team committed to making sure your wedding goes wonderfully. One or more of our bridal attendants will be with you and the rest of your wedding party the entire time, checking every detail, anticipating every important step, and making sure you enjoy every single moment of your big day. Get to know and hear from each of our bridal attendants in this Q&A:
Kayla Jeremias (LBI)
What is your favorite part of your role at Merri-Makers?
My favorite part as a bridal attendant is being a part of a couple’s special day, ensuring everything runs smoothly and being there for anything they may need to make the day complete. When the bride and groom finally say, “I do,” and they come out smiling and laughing, without a care in the world. It is truly beautiful to see.
What is your favorite part of working weddings?
My favorite part about working weddings is getting to see the style that each bride brings to her wedding. Each wedding is unique and it is amazing to see the brides bring their personal style to each property.
Any special moments with brides that come to mind that you can share?
I love connecting with the bride and hearing about the couple’s love story. Seeing the bride and groom’s faces light up when they finally see each other at their first look is magical. You really can see the love from the both of them.
Do you have any tips for future brides based on your knowledge?
Enjoy being with your friends and family and tying the knot with your love. Be present and enjoy being the center of attention. Also, don’t forget to eat!
What is a little-known fact about your role that people may not know about?
We strive for perfection and will do anything to make sure that your day is special. Our team is in constant contact making sure everything is where it needs to be and that the bride’s and groom’s vision come to life.
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
I live in Manahawkin. I am a junior at Stockton University as a double major of dance and business. I love reading and going to the gym. My favorite place to be is at the beach with my friends, many of whom I met at work.
Jordan Bernard (LBI)
What is your favorite part of your role at Merri-Makers?
A wedding has many moving parts that require personalized attention, which is why my role as a bridal attendant is important. It’s nice to be able to make a lasting impact on couples on one of the biggest days of their lives.
What is your favorite part of working weddings?
As a bridal attendant, I learn what’s important to each couple and make sure they don’t miss a minute and truly enjoy their wedding day.
Any special moments with brides that come to mind that you can share?
Bringing the bride down alone in the elevator to get in her processional line. That moment is unique and special with each bride; some have a few extra jitters while others need an extra moment before heading to the ceremony. Nobody else gets to see those emotions and I love being there for her.
Do you have any tips for future brides based on your knowledge?
The heels are beautiful for detail shots and give you that extra height for photos, but always bring a pair of comfortable shoes to change into. Most dresses are long enough to cover your feet so nobody will notice that your shoes changed. You will be grateful for those sneakers or flats. Also, take the time to eat!
What is a little-known fact about your role that people may not know about?
While we look super cool with our walkie-talkies and headsets, none of us are actually part of the Secret Service, CIA or FBI.
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
I have been with Merri-Makers for two years. I live 10 minutes away from the beach (on a good traffic day) and my hobbies include reading, listening to music, watching TV and scrolling through TikTok. I will be leaving the season a little early to attend graduate school for the upcoming fall semester out of state.
Jennifer Bonaccolta (LBI & Ashford)
What is your favorite part of your role at Merri-Makers?
Getting to be a part of one of the most memorable days of that couple’s life as they start their new chapter!
What is your favorite part of working weddings?
Each couple and wedding day is unique, I love getting a different perspective and learning something new at each event.
Do you have any tips for future brides based on your knowledge?
The day goes by incredibly fast, so just soak it all in and enjoy every moment.
What is a little-known fact about your role that people may not know about?
We wear many hats throughout the day and our job is never truly the same!
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
I am a city girl at heart but have a love for the South and will probably always live by a beach! In my downtime, I love making things, whether it be baking, painting, or working with the Cricut. My favorite kind of day is spent with my soon-to-be husband and our German Shepherd puppy, Stella!
Sarah Deussing (LBI)
What is your favorite part of your role at Merri-Makers?
My favorite part of my role at Merri-Makers is being able to see a wedding come to life, from the behind-the-scenes setup of the ballroom and chapel to the celebrations between the bride and groom and their family and friends. I love seeing the little touches of personalization, whether that be in a unique setup, wedding dress, flowers, or other details.
What is your favorite part of working weddings?
I love being a part of one of the happiest days of the newlyweds’ lives. Although I have seen many first looks and helped many brides to the aisle, those moments never become less special. I love that I can help create such an unforgettable day for the bride and groom and their families.
Any special moments with brides that come to mind that you can share?
The moment alone with the bride when bringing her down from the bridal suite in preparation for her walking down the aisle is always extra special. All of her wedding planning and preparation has led to this point, and seeing her excitement for the rest of the day is always so memorable.
Do you have any tips for future brides based on your knowledge?
Always remember that it is your day and your celebration. Don’t let anything change that! Also, I love when brides get creative with favors, special touches on their tables, or their guest book. Remember that the staff is there to serve you and make your wedding day everything you could have imagined.
What is a little-known fact about your role that people may not know about?
Working personally with the bride and groom and their wedding party has shown me the type of love and excitement that I want to have at my wedding, and I am inspired by the stories they share about their relationships. I have also taken mental notes of design elements that I have loved at weddings, including dress styles, seating chart layouts, songs, and flowers. Seeing all the elements come together for a bride and groom’s special day is truly remarkable.
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
I’m from a small town in PA, but my family and I have spent summers in Long Beach Island my entire life. Currently, I’m a junior at the University of Notre Dame and am double majoring in mathematics and education. In my spare time, I enjoy going to the beach and spending time with friends and family.
Meet the rest of our team and explore our gorgeous NJ wedding venues!
