Welcome to this month’s installment of the “I Do” Interviews! This month our wedding series features a wonderful couple, Kim and Ernald, who said their vows on a beautiful fall day in September of last year. They chose to celebrate their ceremony on The Lawn and reception with us in the Harborview Ballroom with their 175 family members and friends who all shared in their joy.
This interview series is meant to give future couples a chance to hear the wonderful details of wedding experiences from those who have recently been there. Our lovely couples have agreed to share their stories so others can learn everything about their one-of-a-kind wedding and the planning process.
Responses have been edited for length and clarity.
Kim and Ernald
Wedding Date – September 2023
Event Space – We had our ceremony on the Lawn outdoors and then used the Harborview Ballroom for our reception.
Where are you originally from?
I am from Lynn, Massachusetts and Ernald is from Dorchester, Massachusetts.
What do you do for work?
We both work in the tech industry. I am a Senior Accountant and he is a Software Engineer.
How did you meet your bride or groom?
As Usher would sing it, we fell in love in a club. Ernald approached me and we hit it off! Two days later we went on our first date and have been together since 2014.
What made you choose Danversport, and this venue/room specifically?
I went to prom here so I already knew I loved the space. It wasn’t hard to convince Ernald either. We loved the waterfront views, the beautiful chandeliers and the big open space. It also helps that there is so much parking for our guests.
How many guests did you have in attendance roughly?
We had approximately 175 of our family and friends at our wedding reception and ceremony.
What did you offer for food/drink catering?
To start the evening off we had an open bar for our guests. Our signature drink was “Haitian Sensation” which was Haitian Rum Punch & “Asian Persuasion” which was a spicy cucumber margarita!
We also offered seven different passed apps during cocktail hour. One cool thing we did was have Haitian beef patties and tostones to showcase Ernald’s culture. For dinner, we offered short ribs and Tuscan chicken. Our late-night snack was a DIY Ramen Bar. The guests loved it so much!
What was the most magical, moving, or special part of the wedding for you?
It was truly the best night of our lives. We were so grateful to have so many people come to support our love. One magical moment at our wedding was a special moment for both of our mothers. We didn’t have any special mother/daughter/son dance so I made a slideshow with videos/photos of them each with Boyz II Men – “A Song for My Mama” as the background music.
Something fun we did was a t-shirt toss! I designed and made all the t-shirts myself.
What was the song you danced to for your first dance?
Our first dance song was James Arthur – “Say You Won’t Let Go.”
What style was your dress?
My dress was pretty simple, clean cut and modern! It was off the shoulder but the sleeves were detachable so I was ready to dance when it was time.
Who walked you down the aisle?
My mom walked me down the aisle. It was a moment that I will never forget.
What are/were your plans for your honeymoon?
We went to Asia for almost four weeks! We went to Japan, South Korea and Vietnam. It was the best time of our lives. We came back with so much Korean skincare and Japanese snacks.
Happily Ever After
Congratulations to Kim and Ernald as they begin their journey together. We are so happy that we were able to be a part of your special day. We wish them much happiness as they begin their life together!
