💍 A Beautiful Spring Celebration at Renault Winery Resort
Stephanie Leighty and Christopher Castelo’s wedding day at the stunning Renault Winery Resort in Egg Harbor City, NJ, was nothing short of magical. On April 18, 2025, these two soulmates shared heartfelt vows and unforgettable moments that were beautifully captured by the Red Bank Studio team.
Nestled in the heart of South Jersey’s wine country, Renault Winery Resort served as a picturesque backdrop for every moment of the day—from getting ready to the final twirls on the dance floor. The elegance of the venue, paired with the couple’s timeless style, created a day brimming with romance and celebration.
📸 Getting Ready at Renault Winery
The day began with excitement and joyful anticipation. Stephanie prepared for her walk down the aisle surrounded by her closest loved ones. Her mother, Holly Leighty, and soon-to-be mother-in-law, Teri Lodato, were by her side as she got ready in the luxurious bridal suite. The bridesmaids, a joyful mix of close friends and family, added to the energy of the morning, sharing laughs and love. Each bridesmaid had exchanged touching cards with the bride earlier that morning—an intimate and emotional detail we were honored to capture.
On the other side, Chris and his groomsmen prepped for the day with classic camaraderie. One touching moment that stood out? Chris wore a watch gifted by Stephanie, engraved with a special message—symbolizing the timeless love they now share.
💑 Couples Portraits at the Champagne Glass Room
After the couple’s emotional first look in the breathtaking Champagne Glass Room, we transitioned into an intimate portrait session. The vines, rustic charm, and ambient lighting of the resort enhanced the romantic vibe. As seasoned wedding photographers and wedding cinematographers in New Jersey, we took full advantage of Renault Winery’s golden-hour glow to frame the couple in love-filled candids and editorial-style shots.
👰♀️🤵 Bridal Party & Family Photos
Following their portraits, Stephanie and Chris gathered with their bridal party and family for more joyful photos. It was a blend of posed elegance and spontaneous laughter—a beautiful celebration of the people who’ve supported their journey.
💒 Ceremony with Heartfelt Tributes
The ceremony began at 6:00 PM, held outdoors at Renault Winery. A reserved chair honored Stephanie’s late father—a quiet but powerful reminder that love transcends time. The couple chose a simple yet deeply meaningful ceremony, filled with emotion, promises, and joyful tears.
🍷 Cocktail Hour & Reception at Renault Winery Resort
At 6:30 PM, guests were invited to the cocktail hour. The reception began at 7:30 PM with a grand entrance and parent introductions, followed by heartfelt speeches, cake cutting, and lively dancing. One standout moment was the blessing given by Uncle Joe, Chris’ mom, Stephanie’s mom, and several siblings—showcasing the unity of their families.
Stephanie and Chris opted for a no-send-off exit, choosing instead to dance the night away with their guests—a fitting end to a day full of warmth, laughter, and pure love.
📹 Capturing the Day with Red Bank Studio
We were honored to provide both wedding photography and cinematography for this unforgettable day. From timeless portraits to emotional moments and vibrant party scenes, everything was expertly documented so Stephanie and Chris could relive it for years to come.
Vendors
Wedding team:
Renault Winery
Renault Winery, nestled in Egg Harbor City, NJ, offers a captivating blend of historic charm and modern elegance, making it an ideal setting for your wedding day. With over 150 years of winemaking heritage, this venue provides a picturesque backdrop featuring sprawling vineyards and the enchanting Château Renault, transporting you and your guests to a European-inspired retreat. The property boasts multiple event spaces, including the Vineyard Ballroom & Courtyard, Champagne Ballroom & Courtyard, Château Renault Ballroom, and The Pavilion, accommodating up to 400 guests to suit various wedding styles and sizes.
Couples consistently praise Renault Winery for its exceptional service and attention to detail. Reviews highlight the dedicated staff, such as wedding coordinators who ensure seamless planning and execution, allowing you to fully enjoy your special day. Guests often commend the exquisite cuisine and the convenience of having everything in one location—from the rehearsal dinner to the ceremony and reception—eliminating the need for additional transportation and enhancing the overall experience.
Collaborating with Red Bank Studio at Renault Winery ensures that every precious moment of your wedding day is artfully captured. The venue’s diverse and scenic environments provide stunning backdrops for your photographs, from lush vineyards to elegant ballrooms. Our expertise in working with Renault Winery’s unique settings allows us to seamlessly integrate into your celebration, preserving the beauty and emotion of each moment, so you can relive your perfect day for years to come.
