“Our two distinctly different worlds collided in the small town of Newport, RI in 2012.”
Laurie Schrall & Michael Laporte on October 18, 2014
Published in Newport Wedding Magazine 2016
Little did Laurie Schrall and Michael Laporte know their paths were destined to cross while pursuing graduate degrees in Newport at the U.S. Naval War College. Laurie had been living in Washington D.C. for more than a decade and came here to earn her master’s, while Michael had just returned to the U.S. after completing two tours in Afghanistan as a Major in the U.S. Army. The couple’s meet-cute would be on a late summer night in downtown Newport as members in a running club. After a year in Newport falling in love, Laurie had to return to D.C., so they only saw each other intermittently. One weekend after she traveled through a treacherous snowstorm to Newport for Valentine’s Day, Michael proposed near the anchor on Bowen’s Wharf where they met on their first date. They decided to marry in Newport. “This is where we met, share mutual friends, the place we were engaged, and the one place that makes us both happy.”—DS
Special Favor
Michael and Laurie chose military challenge coins bearing an emblem that symbolized their wedding theme and unique backgrounds. They were presented to guests in small cloth bags with a graphic of a pineapple and the date of the wedding. Small gold cards were placed in each bag with an explanation of the coin tradition and the symbolism of the Newport pineapple.
Venue
The Newport Yachting Center’s Sunset Terrace offered unparalleled views of the harbor and Pell Bridge. Because it is located near Kay Chapel, where Laurie and Michael exchanged vows, their guests were able to walk to the reception, while enjoying the sights of downtown Newport.
Wedding Attire
Laurie arrived in a Maggie Sottero, lace fitted slim A-line gown adorned with crystal embellishments on the front of one side. Her bridesmaids wore navy blue lace dresses accented with silky sunny yellow pashminas. The groom and groomsmen wore U.S Army uniforms, and tuxedos.
Centerpieces
Pineapples painted in 24 karat gold placed on gold chargers accented with tea lights, which reflected in the gold pieces were crafted to celebrate Newport.
Where Are They Now
The newlyweds now live in Hawaii, where Michael was promoted to Lt. Colonel and Laurie works for the U.S. Department of Defense.
Featured Vendors
Rehearsal Dinner: Sardella’s Restaurant
Ceremony Venue: Kay Chapel
Reception Venue: Newport Yachting Center’s Sunset Terrace
Hair/Makeup: Allison Barbera Beauty
Nails: The Spa at Newport Marriott
Flowers: The Flower Pot
Caterer: Newport Restaurant Group
Cake: Scrumptions
Bridal Party Transportation: Little Rest Livery Inc.
Ceremony Music: A Change of Scene
Reception Entertainment: Night Rhythm Band
Photography: Allan Millora Photography
Wedding Night Stay: The Attwater Hotel, Lark Suite
Guest Accommodations: Newport Harbor Hotel
Post-Wedding Brunch: Atlantic Beach Club
