Casey Castronova of Freehold, NJ and Alex Guzzo of Manalapan, NJ like to say their story proves that sometimes love has been right in front of you all along. Although they officially reconnected in 2022 thanks to Bumble, their story began years earlier in the halls of Freehold Township High School. Both members of the Class of 2006, Casey even sat behind Alex in Geometry sophomore year, long before either imagined what the future might hold.
When they matched online years later, it didn’t take long to realize their connection was something special. They bonded over their shared love of 2000s comedies and a passion for new adventures. Casey was drawn to Alex’s quick wit and lighthearted humor, while Alex admired Casey’s patience, kindness, and unwavering love for her family.
On December 21, 2024, Alex planned one of their many adventures to Cape May, NJ to see if it truly resembled a Hallmark Christmas movie during the holidays. Fun fact: it does. In front of the town’s largest Christmas tree, surrounded by a festive crowd of tourists, he got down on one knee and asked Casey to marry him. Through happy tears, she said yes.
When it came time to choose their venue, the decision felt immediate. “We fell in love with The Mill Lakeside Manor the first time we visited,” Casey shared.
Their wedding day on January 2, 2026, was the perfect winter celebration. The Mill Lakeside Manor’s cozy, elegant ambiance set the scene for a dreamy winter wedding filled with simple yet sophisticated touches. Crisp white florals, soft candlelight, and delicate greenery accented the space, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere. Guests were charmed by a unique guest book idea: instead of a traditional book, everyone signed playing cards, leaving personalized messages that the couple could cherish and revisit in a fun, creative way.
From the beginning, the couple was drawn to the venue’s warm, intimate atmosphere and a cocktail hour they say will keep guests reminiscing for years to come. More than just the aesthetic, it was the feeling that stood out most. “It really feels like a family,” they said. One detail they refused to compromise on was the food. Incredible cuisine was a must for their celebration, making The Mill Lakeside Manor’s ample food offerings a no-brainer!
For Casey and Alex, trust was everything. “It was very important to us that we fell into capable hands,” they explained. “It was obvious from day one that The Mill truly wants the bride, the groom, and their families to be completely cared for on the big day.” They also noted that the value offered was unmatched compared to other venues in Central New Jersey, solidifying their confidence that they had found the perfect place to begin their next chapter together.
Their favorite memory from the wedding day was a quiet one: sitting together at their sweetheart table and taking in the joy on the faces of their family and friends gathered in one room. It was a moment of gratitude for a hometown love story that had come full circle.
Now living in Howell, NJ, the newlyweds recently honeymooned in Italy, exploring Rome, Florence, and Siena. From historic architecture and breathtaking art to the rolling Tuscan hills and, of course, unforgettable food and wine, it was the perfect start to married life.
Their advice to other couples is simple: take wedding planning one day at a time, remain patient with each other, choose a venue that truly supports your vision, and soak in every second of the big day because it goes by in a flash. And if their story proves anything, it is this: never underestimate hometown roots or a simple swipe right.
Vendors:
DJ: Limelight Entertainment
Photographer: Limelight Entertainment
Florist: Designs by Dara
Shuttle Company: Chelsea Limos
Officiant: Rev. Clare Robert