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Home · Weddings

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James' Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake

Twanna's charismatic high school classmate James turned out to be the man of her dreams. The modern couple threw a lavish, riverside wedding to remember and now they're enjoying blended family bliss.
By Charli Penn · Updated October 27, 2020
01
Meant To Be Yours

Twanna’s charismatic high school classmate James turned out to be the man of her dreams. The modern couple threw a lavish, riverside wedding to remember and now they’re enjoying blended family bliss.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
02
Sisters For Life

On her big day, beautiful bride Twanna was surrounded by her squad, which included her big sister Temeka, her little sister, Tyrelle, her cousin Xiomara, and her childhood best friend. Before helping to guide her down the aisle, they prayed together and celebrated the joy of the moment.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
03
Love In Bloom

Adam Leffel Productions created spectacular and romantic blush and ivory bouquets for the ladies, which they personally delivered to the hotel.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
04
The Right Kind of Man

“James is a standup guy with a great personality and a wonderful sense of humor,” says Twanna. “Our souls joined the moment we first fell in love. He keeps me happy and helps hold it down for our family. What more could a girl ask for?”

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
05
These Are The Moments

James helps their son, Liam, 5, get dressed on the morning of the wedding.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
06
Dazzle Me

The bride wore dazzling Jimmy Choos down the aisle.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
07
Always Remember

Twanna ordered custom vow holders for them to have at the altar and for years to come.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
08
Something Fantastic

The bride spared no expense when it came to creating custom details for her big day. This uniquely designed keepsake box held her something old, new, borrowed, and of course, blue.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
09
Hey Fellas

A selfie break for the groom and his best guys.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
10
Pretty In Pink

For her special day, the bride chose a romantic color palette of blush, ivory and silver, with a side of bling.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
11
Mrs. Party Planner

Twanna carefully selected custom details for every moment of her big day.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
12
Blushing Bride

“Twanna’s love and support is endless, and it only makes me love her more,” says proud groom James. “She’s beautiful both inside and out. I’m a lucky guy.” Her fab hair and makeup was done by the team at Luxe Bar.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
13
Mother Knows Best

James’ mom showered him with love and support as he prepared to meet his bride at the altar.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
14
Mom Flow

The bride’s biggest fans were her twin daughters, who couldn’t stop smiling at their mommy in her pretty, pretty dress.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
15
Reach For The Sky

For their bridal party portraits, the bride and her bridesmaids released giant blush balloons into the air.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
16
Here She Comes

James patiently awaits the arrival of his beautiful bride.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
17
Riding In Style

The couple and their bridal party arrived to the wedding venue in style, riding in a classic trolley car around the city.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
18
Bling, Bling Baby

Bling-loving bride Twanna draped herself in pretty diamonds and lots of sparkle on her wedding day. 

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
19
Gorgeous In Grey

The fellas chose to wow in designer grey suits. Check out the groom’s blush tie. Can somebody say dapper?

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
20
Fit For A Queen

Twanna found her gorgeous ballgown with a little help from the “dream team” at popular NYC dress boutique Bridal Reflections.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
21
Forever Matos

“James completes me,” says Twanna.”Together we have built the perfect blended family and learned to truly unite as a team. I’m so thankful for the love that we have.”

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
22
Falling For You

Twanna and James chose the picturesque New York City skyline as the ultimate accessory for their wedding weekend.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
23
Happiness Is Here

“Wanting to be happy was a long term goal for me,” says James. “By putting God first, I’ve become a father and aspiring husband.”

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
24
Proud Papa

Three years ago, Twanna and James were blessed with the birth of twin daughters, Lily and Laila. On their wedding day, the daddy’s girls practically stole the show.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
25
You Complete Me

“My life is complete,” says James. “That white picket fence and dog I dreamed about has become modernized into a vibrant and blended family, words can’t describe how blessed I am.”

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
26
A Dedicated Wife

“I am a dedicated mother, daughter and sister and now I’m also James’ wife,” says proud bride Twanna. She’s been dreaming about her wedding day since she was a little girl.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
27
Family Time

The bride’s mom and dad couldn’t contain their joy on their special day.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
28
Magic Is In the Air

“When we kiss, it’s like magic,” says the beaming bride.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
29
Riverside

With the Hudson River and the spectacular New York City skyline photo bombing the ladies, what’s not to love about their portrait session? Kudos to photographer Joshua Dwain for capturing their sisterhood perfectly.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
30
Stepping Out In Style

The bride made sure her girls had a pop of bling as they walked down the aisle to stand by her side.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
31
By Her Side

Twanna’s dream team stayed right by her side for every single moment of her wedding day.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
32
BFFs

A bestie moment to remember. The bride and her matron of honor have been best friends since the 5th grade.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
33
From Friendship to Romance

“We met in high school during his senior year,” says Twanna. “He was so charismatic, he immediately caught my attention, but it wasn’t until years later when we reconnected that our relationship turned from friendship to romance.”

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
34
Daddy’s Little Girl

Daddy’s girl Twanna gets a smooch from her proud papa on the big day.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
35
Dressed To Impress

The bridesmaids donned gorgeous tulle gowns from Amsale. (A perfect pick for a romantic, evening wedding on the water.)

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
36
The Groom’s Here

James was all smiles on his way down the aisle. “I couldn’t wait to marry my Queen,” he tells us.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
37
Mommy’s On The Way

The couple’s son helped to welcome his mom down the aisle.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
38
Here Comes The Bride, All Dressed In Bling

Twanna’s father had the pleasure of walking her down the aisle. A singer was on hand to serenade them as they made their way to the altar.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
39
A Tender Moment For Two

Twanna was overwhelmed with joy as she met James at the altar on that breathtaking evening just before sunset. As she arrived, he tenderly wiped the tears of joy from her cheeks. Aww!

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
40
When I Look At You

“Looking into his eyes, I knew that we were both sure that this was the best decision of our lives,” says Twanna.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
41
New Heights

This aerial shot is absolute perfection.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
42
Love Is In The Air

“It was the happiest day of my life,” says James. “For me as well,” adds Twanna. Yes, we can see the love! The bride’s uncle officiated their Christian ceremony.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
43
Little Ladies

The couple’s twin daughters stood by their parents’ side at the altar. Too precious for words.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
44
An Outpouring Of Love

During their ceremony, the couple participated in a wine pouring ceremony.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
45
Picture Perfect

“We know a happy and long-lasting marriage includes three people,” says Twanna. “God, the husband and the wife.”

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
46
Sealed With A Kiss

Mr. and Mrs. Matos’ first kiss as husband and wife was one to remember.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
47
Pray With Us

For a special keepsake, the couple asked their guests to circle scriptures inside their Bible to uplift and inspire them throughout their marriage.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
48
Tender Lover

“Each day gets better,” says Twanna of life with her groom.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
49
Night and Day

The couple’s romantic and classically elegant tablescapes were spectacular by day and by night.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
50
Dinner Is Served

A menu to remember.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
51
Styled to Perfection

After carefully planning every single detail, Twanna hired the team at Details Made Simple to bring her big day to life, so she wouldn’t have to lift a finger.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
52
Scene Stealer

The suspended cake that their guests couldn’t stop talking about and photographing was designed by Adam Leffel Productions, to complement their yummy cake from Palermo Bakery. So chic! So lovely!

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
53
Let’s Get This Party Started

Mr. and Mrs. Matos have arrived!

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
54
A Couple Of Forevers

The newlyweds danced under the spotlight for the first time to Chrisette Michele’s romantic hit “A Couple Of Forevers.”

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
55
When You Know It’s Real

This picture says it all. #teamlove

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
56
Dress Swap

Midway through the evening, Twanna transformed her look by swapping into a second, vintage-inspired (and dance-friendly) gown.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
57
All Night Long

When we say Twanna and James’ guests partied the night away, we really mean it. These photos tell the tale! A deejay from Fusion Social Events kept the tunes spinning while guests rotated between the dance floor and the photo booth.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
58
Party Queens

At the reception, Samba dancers from Casa Brazilia surprised guests with an unforgettable performance then posed for fun photos with all who wanted to join in the fun.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
59
Best Party Ever

Twanna and James partied the night away. “I wish we could have stayed all night,” says the bride. “It was the best party ever!”

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
60
Love Sweet Love

A cake as fabulous as this couple.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
61
So Happy Together

Cheers to the bride and groom. (And, would you look at that sweetheart table!?)

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
62
Favor Fun

The couple was so sure their guests would party the night away, they gave out “hangover kits” with headache meds and water as wedding favors for guests.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
63
Jumping For Joy

The couple were (literally) jumping for joy as guests cheered them off with sparklers during their grand exit

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
64
One Last Thing

In addition to having a late-night bubbly bar, for a sweet, late-night surprise, Twanna and James brought in popular NYC dessert truck Wafles & Dinges. Yum-my!

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
65
Congrats and Good Night

Join us as we congratulate the happy bride and groom. Want to see your wedding featured in Bridal Bliss? Email us now.

Bridal Bliss: Twanna and James’ Lavish Riverside Wedding Takes the Cake
Joshua Dwain
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