explore

A bride and groom kiss under a beautiful coastal chuppah at OceanCliff Hotel

Samantha & Jason | An OceanCliff Wedding in Newport, Rhode Island

February 26, 2026

Some wedding days feel simple and joyful. Others stand out for their eccentric beauty. And then there are days like Samantha and Jason’s; wedding days that feel deeply meaningful, layered with emotion, intention, and love that reaches far beyond the couple themselves. Make no mistake the details and decor and this personalized wedding was swoon worthy, but at its core Samantha and Jason’s wedding day was undeniably “them” and perfect in each and every way.

Set against the sweeping coastal views of Newport, Rhode Island, their wedding day unfolded at the iconic OceanCliff, blending timeless Jewish traditions, deeply personal moments, and an elevated nautical aesthetic that reflected both their story and their roots.

Drawn together by the Tide

Samantha and Jason’s story began in 2020 at the Noank Shipyard, where Jason was the dockmaster and Samantha was applying to work on the docks. What started as long workdays side by side quickly turned into something more. Their first date, ice cream at Dairy Queen followed by hours of driving around Mystic and Stonington, set the tone for a relationship built on simplicity, laughter, and connection.

Their lives have always revolved around the water. From boating and dock life to years spent traveling seasonally between New England summers and Florida winters, the coast has shaped who they are. It was only fitting that they chose a venue where the ocean could play such a central role in their wedding day.

Getting Ready by the Sea

Samantha’s morning began at a stunning beach house with direct access to the shoreline. With waves just steps away, she spent the morning getting ready alongside her bridesmaids anticipation and calm excitement filled the air. Her beloved dog, Brody, stayed close by throughout the morning, a constant, comforting presence during such meaningful moments.

With the help of her mom, Samantha slipped into her wedding dress and shared an incredibly emotional first look with her dad overlooking the beach. It was quiet, tender, and filled with tears, the kind of moment that lingers long after the day ends.

Soon after, Jason arrived for their first look at the same location. The moment he saw Samantha, emotion completely took over, his joy and awe written across his face as he took her in. Brody was then brought out to join them, and together they took portraits on the lawn overlooking the water, surrounded by sea air and so much love.

Portraits & a Coastal Garden Ceremony

Once at OceanCliff, Samantha and Jason completed portraits beneath the venue’s iconic stone arch, framed by sweeping ocean views that felt both grand and timeless.

Meanwhile, the ceremony space was transformed into a lush coastal garden. A breathtaking chuppah overflowed with cascading blue and white florals, setting the tone for a day rich in symbolism and beauty. Every detail, from the florals to the linens, embraced a refined blue-and-white palette, subtly nodding to the nautical surroundings and their deep connection to the coast.

Their personalized ceremony beautifully honored jewish tradition while weaving in modern, personal elements. From the breaking of the glass to a heartfelt sand pouring ceremony, each moment felt intentional and deeply meaningful. Brody sat faithfully at their feet throughout the ceremony, quietly witnessing it all, a reminder that family, in every form, was at the heart of their day.

Cocktail Hour on the Bay

Following the ceremony, Samantha and Jason joined their guests for cocktail hour on the tented deck overlooking the bay. Inside the tent, guests were welcomed by thoughtful, custom design details including curated seating displays, a striking nautical compass installation, and personalized touches throughout.

Signature cocktails flowed, monogrammed corn-hole boards invited playful competition, and guests enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres alongside an abundant raw bar as the sun dipped lower in the sky. The entire experience felt elevated yet relaxed—perfectly reflective of Samantha and Jason themselves.

A Reception Filled with Joy, Flavor & Heart

The reception was nothing short of celebratory. Lavish florals, custom linens, and the energy of a live band transformed the space into an unforgettable evening of movement and music. Guests were treated to experiential desserts throughout the night, including hand-poured cannolis, a charming cupcake cart, custom Italian cookies, a playful “treat yourself” candy bar, and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream—a beloved New England favorite that brought smiles to every generation.

During the cake cutting, Samantha surprised everyone by playfully smushing cake into Jason’s face. His laughter filled the room as cheers erupted—one of those spontaneous, joy-filled moments that perfectly captured their dynamic.

A Moment That Stilled the Room

As incredible as the entire day was, the most touching moment of the evening came on the dance floor.

Jason’s grandfather, who was wheelchair-bound, was brought out to dance with Samantha and Jason. Soon after, his wife (Jason’s grandmother), was brought to join him. As Jason crouched behind his grandfather, gently supporting him, he gave his grandparents the gift of dancing together one last time.

Time seemed to stand still. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room, and we were no exception. Andrew and I stood behind our cameras, quietly choking back tears as we documented what felt like a truly miraculous moment. this moment, as fragile as it was… was love in its purest form: selfless, tender, and deeply human. An honor to witness, and humbling to document.

A Day That Will Live On

Samantha and Jason’s wedding day was more than a celebration. It was a testament to love, family, legacy, and the moments that matter most. From oceanfront first looks to sacred traditions and once-in-a-lifetime memories on the dance floor, their day was a beautiful reminder of why these moments deserve to be preserved with care.

Because long after the music fades and the flowers are gone, it’s these moments ; the quiet ones, the joyful ones, and the miraculous ones, that become your memories.