Ben and Amanda met nearly eight years ago through close, mutual friends. A random Instant Message from Amanda, while Ben was traveling in Australia, was intriguing enough to keep the two talking. Even though the topic of conversation was the weather (believe it or not), Ben nevertheless reconnected with Amanda when he returned from his trip and the rest, as they say, is history.

From very early on, it became apparent that both Ben and Amanda wanted to travel the world. Ideally, this would mean together but, at times, it would have to mean on their own. A turning point for the couple occured when Amanda went to visit Ben in Tel Aviv, during his six month stay in 2010. The couple knew that if they had survived six months, several continents, and many time zones away from one another - they could overcome anything.

In June of 2012, Ben and Amanda began yet another new chapter in their story when they moved to Hoboken. Though this was only mere months before super storm Sandy, the couple has enjoyed every moment of their new life together.

After nearly eight years together, Amanda was positive Ben would not be able to surprise her with "the big question." In fact, she even made a reference to, what seemed like at the time, the most unlikely scenerio for a proposal: the lead singer of one of her favorite bands popping the question at a concert. As luck would have it, Ben was already in contact with said lead singer weeks prior to this quippy remark. 

Long story short, Amanda was dumbfounded when Mike Kinsella, lead singer of the band Owen, uttered the words, "So, Ben wants his girlfriend to marry him." The video proof is on our registry page if you're so inclined to check it out. 

Ben and Amanda initially thought a wedding IN New York City would be their ideal setting. Once the venue exploration began, it quickly became apparent that a view OF New York City was far more desirable. This criteria, along with several others, led the couple to choose Maritime Parc, located in Liberty State Park, Jersey City.

The wedding ceremony will take place on the third floor, in the Aviary Room. The warm feel of the exposed wooden-beamed ceiling paired with a 360 degree wrap-around, terrace made the decision an easy one.

The cocktail hour and reception will take place on the second floor, in the Sky Room. This room also features a wrap-around terrage and breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.

The couple hopes you enjoy the Maritime Parc as much as they do!

Ben and Amanda knew that after successfully planning a wedding in just over six months, they would be ready to RELAX. The tranquil beaches of Barbados seemed like just the thing. They decided the west coast retreat The House - by Elegant Hotels would provide the perfect setting for their romantic get-away. For more details, feel free to explore our Honeymoon Wishes Registry at the top of this page.

The happy couple is registered under "Amanda Rieder and Benjamin Kurtz" at:

Crate and Barrel
Pottery Barn
Honeymoon Wishes