Erin Miller & Brent Rogol

Love sometimes sneaks up on you. It certainly did on Brent Rogol and Erin Miller. The two were introduced at a bar by mutual friends. The night went well and they enjoyed each other’s company. They went on a few casual dates after that, but neither wanted a serious relationship. However, as time went on, they grew closer and closer. Erin says, “I think that we are really each other’s best friend...He always has me laughing.” Finally, a year after they had been introduced and became friends, Brent asked Erin to go on a second, official ‘first date’.

Three and a half years after their second first date, Brent proposed. It was a Friday night in mid-December, and Brent and Erin were about to meet friends for dinner. Beforethey left, Brent wanted to give Erinan early holiday gift: a photo album. He’dknown that when they moved in together,one of Erin’s albums had been lost. The twowent through the new album, filled withpictures of their last three and a half years together. Erin was touched, and startedthanking Brent for such a thoughtful gift.

Then she turned to the last page, and saw the words “Will you marry me?” “I was beyond surprised; legit shocked. He then had a car waiting for us downstairs with my favorite flowers, wine and candy and we went to dinner.” They celebrated that night with friends, and again the next day with family.

For Erin, a lifelong Manhattaner, getting married in New York City was a must. The venue had to be spacious enough to accommodate the large guest list. Erin was initially reluctant to have such a big wedding, knowing it would be emotionally challenging after losing her mom a few years earlier.

But with support from her dad, she went through with it. “I am thankful that he encouraged us to have a wedding as there is really no greater joy than celebrating the good times with the ones that you love. People make the party and we are blessed to have the best people in our lives and in our hearts.” In his speech later that night, Erin’s father reminded her that her mother is always with her, living on in her heart.

For the reception, Brent fell in love with The Plaza, and its classic beauty won over even Erin, who initially wanted a more modern venue. To make the space feel warm and intimate, despite its grand size, it was decorated with a simple floral design and accented with warm colors and candlelight.

The raw seafood bar reflected the groom’s tastes, and a sweet table the bride’s. A band played in the balcony, keeping the focus on dancing all night. The newlyweds couldn’t have been more pleased. ”The evening exceeded all of our expectations...we were just so happy to be able to share it with the people we love.”