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Kristi & Raymond in Slate Hill, NY
Kristi and Ray wanted a place where they could have both the ceremony (preferably outdoors) and the reception. When they discovered The Gardens on Catlin Creek, right in Ray’s hometown, they knew they had found perfection.The main attraction was the five acres of gardens that included three waterfalls, a stone gazebo, and three bridges. But there was also a grand, castle-like banquet hall with peaked roofs and expansive spaces for a dance floor.
Kristi remembers the celebration of dining and dancing that followed as "the best day of my life," and points out that she was not the only one having a blast. "In our pictures and on the video, everyone is smiling and laughing," she says. "The dance floor was always packed and our guests were having a great time. I‘m so grateful for that."
Chocolate and vanilla cake with chocolate mousse filling and whipped cream frosting.

Kristi & Raymond in Slate Hill, NY

Heartfelt vows highlighted Kristi & Raymond's fun-filled garden celebration.

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Photos By: Diane Pell Photographer
Location: The Gardens on Catlin Creek, Slate Hill

Pre-school teacher Kristi Leone and engineer Raymond Hummel were "fixed up" by friends who goaded them separately into a double-date. Both were uninterested in a relationship, but, once they met, they could hardly stop talking. "We began to see each other exclusively after that," says Kristi.
 
The Bride Kristi Leone
The Groom Raymond Hummel
The Date October 5
 
One evening, while watching television, Kristi took off her jewelry and put it on the coffee table, then left the room for a minute. When she returned, Ray pointed to the pile of bracelets and rings, where a new bauble—a diamond engagement ring—had magically appeared. Kristi was so stunned, she says, that she ran from the room, leaving Ray and the ring behind. Fortunately, Ray followed, and dropped to one knee for a proper proposal, which Kristi tearfully accepted.

-- Lisa Carse

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