Ballroom at the Ben Wedding | Alicia and James

James and Alicia’s story began six years ago inside a warm, bustling bakery owned by James’s grandparents. What started as a simple meeting soon became the beginning of something lasting. It didn’t take long, just one week in fact, for Alicia to realize she had met the person she’d spend her life with.

Their connection was easy and comforting. They share a love for cooking, often finding joy in preparing meals side by side. But more than shared hobbies, it’s the way James cares for Alicia that made her fall in love—the quiet, thoughtful gestures and the acts of service that show he’s always thinking of her.

The Proposal:

The proposal reflected everything about their relationship: heartfelt, meaningful, and tied to their traditions. Each December, James and Alicia celebrate the season with Christmas activities, from baking cookies to strolling through festive streets. On December 17th, after a joyful evening with family, they headed to Cape May for drinks and a walk through Congress Hall.

As they admired the Christmas tree at Rotary Park, Alicia thought it was just another lovely moment in their annual tradition. But then she heard James say, “Five years ago, I knew you were the one for me.” She turned to find him on one knee. It was completely unexpected and absolutely perfect.

As their wedding day approached, James and Alicia were most looking forward to that quiet moment before the guests arrive. A sneak peek of the venue, just the two of them, taking it all in before the celebration begins. Because at the heart of their story is a simple truth: it’s not about grand gestures, but the small, meaningful moments that make their love so strong.

Here are our favorites from their beautiful Ballroom at the Ben wedding captured by Ralph Deal Photography.