A Magical Spring Celebration at Renault Winery
On a beautiful spring Friday, Stephanie Leighty and Christopher Castelo tied the knot at the enchanting Renault Winery in Egg Harbor City, New Jersey. With a soft golden sunset and a lush vineyard backdrop, this wedding was a dreamy fusion of elegance and heartfelt moments—made even more special by the couple’s furry ring bearers!
Our team at Red Bank Studio had the honor of capturing every minute, from the intricate bridal details in the Vineyard Bridal Suite to the lively after-party in the venue’s Speakeasy. It was a joy working alongside a stellar vendor team and witnessing the deep connection Stephanie and Chris share.
📍 Getting Ready at Renault Winery
The day began with hair and makeup for Stephanie, her bridesmaids, and the mothers of the bride and groom, thanks to the expert team at Kiss the Bride Co. The Vineyard Bridal Suite provided the perfect backdrop for elegant “getting ready” shots, including solo portraits of Stephanie and candid moments between her, her mom Holly, and MOH Thomas.
Meanwhile, the groom and his party prepped at Château Renault, with laid-back moments captured as Chris suited up and shared laughs with his groomsmen and father.
💕 First Looks & Vineyard Portraits
A series of emotional first looks set the tone for the day—first with MOH Thomas and then a sweet reveal with Stephanie’s bridesmaids. The bride and groom shared their own first look shortly after, arriving via golf cart to a secluded vineyard setting. The couple’s dogs even made a cameo, posing alongside the newlyweds in one of the most heart-melting photo sessions of the day.
From there, portraits of the bridal party and family unfolded across the picturesque grounds, beautifully styled by Stemtations Florist.
💍 Ceremony on the Vineyard Lawn
Set against rows of grapevines, the ceremony began at 6:00 PM with the couple’s dogs leading the processional—an adorable highlight that had guests smiling ear to ear. Officiated by the groom’s uncle, Rev. Thomas Greene, the ceremony included heartfelt vows, a ring exchange, and a kiss that marked the start of forever.
🍷 Cocktail Hour on the Patio
Guests moved to the Vineyard Patio to enjoy signature drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Stephanie and Chris joined their loved ones mid-way through, sharing hugs and laughter as the golden hour light bathed the patio in a soft glow.
🥂 A Reception to Remember in the Vineyard Ballroom
Introduced as “Mr. & Mrs. Castelo,” the couple stepped into the Vineyard Ballroom and danced into their new chapter. The evening featured heartfelt toasts from Holly, Thomas, Teri, and Robert, paired with an elegant meal served in courses. A family dance followed the traditional mother-son moment, showing just how close-knit and celebratory the evening truly was.
Later, the couple slipped away for a private cake cutting with their moms. As the party rolled into the night, the ambiance grew electric, leading up to the after-party in Renault’s intimate Speakeasy.
🌟 Vendor Dream 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.
