VOWS THAT WOW | Maximilian Rodio & Matthew Marone

A Timeless Homecoming: Maximilian & Matthew’s Joyful Backyard Wedding

Month after month, our team receives and showcases stunning weddings from across the region, all courtesy of incredibly talented vendors and wonderful couples who share their special day with us. Each month, our editorial team selects one standout celebration to highlight—one that captures both beauty and meaning in a truly unforgettable way.

For this feature, we’re highlighting a heartfelt, intimate wedding filled with emotion, family history, and artful details. Maximilian Rodio and Matthew Marone celebrated ten years together with a soulful ceremony in Maximilian’s grandparents’ blooming backyard in Hammonton, NJ, followed by a timeless reception with Art Deco flair.

Their Journey Together

After a decade of building their lives together, Maximilian and Matthew’s wedding felt less like a beginning and more like a joyful homecoming. They chose to exchange vows on the grounds of Maximilian’s grandparents’ home — a place rich with family history and a long-held dream fulfilled. The day was deeply personal, emotional, and reflective of their shared love of art, family, and finding joy even in life’s hardest moments.

The Wedding Day The garden ceremony was alive with natural summer blooms, the soothing sounds of the koi pond and fountain, and live music. Maximilian and his mother processed to Enya’s “Only Time,” followed by Matthew and his mother to “Canon in D.” Tears flowed as a dear family friend officiated their vows. Their stationery proudly featured their special slogan: “A happy, happy day” — words Maximilian spoke as a young child during a time of family grief, now their guiding philosophy of joy.

The celebration continued at Kathedral Event Center with lush florals, hundreds of candles, and elegant gold accents. As art collectors, they surprised each other with a live wedding painter who captured their first dance as a stunning oil painting — now their first family heirloom. Playful touches included their three miniature dachshunds (Molly, Monk, and Marty) inspiring the cake and signature drinks.

A Lesson in Love

Through planning, Maximilian and Matthew learned to expect the unexpected. “We learned to expect the unexpected, and not everything will go according to plan; but there is great beauty in the planning process… Surround yourself with an excellent team that is truly invested in your special day, and there won’t be a thing to worry about.” Their month-of coordinator, Angelina of Just In Time Events, was a true hero after their original planner ghosted them.

Maximilian & Matthew’s Favorite Moment

“Our entire day was truly magical. But Matthew’s grandfather called a barn dance on the dance floor which brought all of our guests together through dance, laughter and plenty of smiles.” — Maximilian Rodio & Matthew Marone

Maximilian and Matthew’s wedding was a beautiful reminder that the most meaningful celebrations blend sophistication with heart — honoring family, history, and a decade of love. A truly happy, happy day.