Marissa and Mike’s elegant celebration at the historic HOTEL DU PONT was a day of radiant joy, timeless beauty, and heartfelt connection — captured with grace and emotion by KIMBERLY HIDORE. Set in the heart of Wilmington, Delaware, the wedding unfolded across the hotel’s iconic Gold Ballroom, where ornate gilded details and Old World glamour created a backdrop worthy of their love story.
A Joyful Morning to Begin
From the moment guests arrived, it was clear this day would be filled with meaningful moments and intentional touches. Marissa was the picture of classic beauty, smiling from the moment she slipped into her gown until the very last dance. Her floral palette of soft white roses and hydrangeas—put together by THE WILMINGTON FLORIST—complemented the ornate ballroom without overwhelming it — a subtle, timeless choice that allowed the opulence of the setting to shine. The morning was filled with laughter, music, and mimosas as Marissa got ready surrounded by her closest friends, her mom, and mother-in-law — a calm and joyful prelude to the day ahead.
From the moment guests arrived, it was clear this day would be filled with meaningful moments and intentional touches.
A Traditional First Look Down the Aisle
Rather than a first look, the couple chose to see each other for the first time at the altar during their traditional church ceremony. That moment — filled with emotion and reverence — was a beautiful reflection of their faith, their families, and the deep connection they share. As Marissa walked down the aisle toward Mike, every eye in the room was misty. The service was centered on their shared values, honoring God and their families in a way that felt deeply personal and full of love.
Elegance in Every Detail
Following the ceremony, the celebration continued back at HOTEL DU PONT, where the couple’s elegant vision came to life. Their stationery echoed the day’s aesthetic — refined, timeless, and touched with subtle gold accents that hinted at the grandeur to come. The ballroom was transformed into a warm and inviting space for dinner and dancing, where candlelight glowed against the gilded walls and soft white florals tied every detail together with understated grace.
That moment — filled with emotion and reverence — was a beautiful reflection of their faith, their families, and the deep connection they share.
A Signature Cocktail Hour
During cocktail hour, guests sipped on the couple’s signature drinks — Aperol Spritzes and Old Fashioneds — while enjoying a spread of delicious appetizers and lively conversation. The festive energy carried into the reception, where the twelve-piece band, JELLYROLL, brought the party to life. Their dynamic setlist included everything from timeless classics to fun modern tracks, and even gave Marissa and Mike the chance to jump on stage for a few unforgettable songs. It was the kind of performance that turns a party into a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
Dinner, Dancing, and Espresso Martinis
Dinner was a beautifully curated three-course meal, followed by heartfelt toasts, a romantic first dance, and the kind of packed dance floor that every couple dreams of. Later in the evening, Marissa and Mike snuck away for a few private moments at Le Cav, where they sipped espresso martinis and soaked in the joy of the day together before rejoining the celebration.
A Love Worth Celebrating
The entire day was a seamless blend of elegance, emotion, and fun — a reflection of Marissa and Mike themselves. Their love is sweet, steady, and full of laughter, and every moment of their wedding told that story. From college sweethearts at the University of Delaware to newlyweds dancing the night away in a gilded ballroom, theirs is a love built on connection, faith, and joy.
A Honeymoon to Remember
Following the wedding, the newlyweds set off on a 12-day honeymoon to Hawaii and Kauai — a dreamy blend of romance and adventure. From couples massages and sunset dinners to thrilling ATV rides and scenic hikes, it was the perfect start to their next chapter.
