Here's A Chance For Military Couple To Win Free Dream Wedding

GREENPORT, NY — Couples who have served the nation once again have the chance to see the magical wedding of their dreams realized.

Peconic Landing is seeking applicants for the 7th annual Veterans Day Wedding Giveback; the winning service couple will receive a dream wedding at Brecknock Hall, at no cost.

Known as the Annual Veterans Day Wedding Giveback, the contest began in 2011 as an opportunity to thank Long Island’s military personnel and recognize them for their service to our country, a release from Peconic Landing said.

Sponsored by Peconic Landing, the giveaway is made possible through sponsorship and contributions from local businesses and organizations who donate the time, talents and services needed to help make the dream day a reality.

The contest is open to current and veteran service members. At least one partner must have served or be serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, Peconic Landing said in a release.

Applicants can click here to enter. The application deadline is Friday, April 21, 2017. Couples who have entered in the past are encouraged to re-enter for a chance to win their dream day, according to Peconic Landing.

The winning couple will be chosen by a panel of Peconic Landing’s veteran members who judge the contest based on the number of years served, special military honors, contributions to the community and each couple’s personal love story. Couples must be available for an interview in person, or via Skype.

Last year’s winning couple, United States Coast Guard Boatswain Mate First Class Patrick Rogers of Manorville and his wife Jessica, said their special day is something they’ll never forget.

“We are so grateful to have been able to be married and celebrate our wedding at such a beautiful venue with our closest family and friends,” said Jessica Rogers. “We will never forget the wonderful feelings of joy and happiness that we felt throughout the entire day.”

Patrick added, “Each and every vendor donation, whether it was someone's time or a big or small contribution, meant the world to us, and we are so grateful for the generosity that helped make our wedding day more than we ever could've imagined.”

It was a fairy tale wedding better than anything they'd ever envisioned, the couple agreed.

"We knew it was going to be great and it was even more amazing than we imagined," Jessica said. "We have all wonderful things to say about each and every vendor. We are so grateful for everything and are ecstatic to officially be married. It was the most amazing celebration."

Jessica's mom Eileen Peters said the wedding was breathtaking. "It was absolutely magical from start Saturday morning to finish on Monday afternoon. The Coast Guard brought a smaller ship into the harbor for photos and the bride and groom rode the carousel, too. The folks at Peconic Landing and Brecknock Hall were super," she said.

The couple were surprised last May at a special event held at Peconic Landing in Greenport, where they had no idea they had been chosen as winners.

This year's wedding will take place on Sunday, November 12, 2017, in celebration of Veteran’s Day, and will accommodate up to 80 guests.

“This giveaway has become a highlight event for our community and the veteran members involved. We are proud to host this celebration in support of the men and women serving our country,” said Robert J. Syron, President and CEO of Peconic Landing. “We want to thank all of our business partners who help make this day possible.”

An estimated $60,000 worth of services and in-kind donations are contributed each year. Those wishing to contribute can contact Valerie Tirelli, Brecknock Hall Sales & Events Coordinator at info@brecknockhall.com.

Applicants and interested vendors should click here for additional information.

Patch courtesy photo.