What started out as a chance meeting in Las Vegas blossomed into longstanding love for Shadi and John Russo. wanting a bold but elegant wedding infused with a little Hollywood glamour, the couple chose the Biltmore Hotel in Providence, Rhode Island, as their dream wedding venue.

People fall in love with Providence for a myriad of reasons: it's small enough to get around in and get to know, but big enough to still have all of the possibilities big cities can offer; it is beautiful in its historical splendor and it looks great in any season; and when you fall in love with something (or someone), you want to share it with your friends and family for them to appreciate as much as you do.

11.6.10. The weekend's festivities began at their favorite Italian restaurant, where Nancy and Randy have been going for nearly 10 years. The down-home night was a small preview of a much bigger event to follow: the arrival of the couple's over 300 guests for their ceremony and reception at Providence's Biltmore Hotel.

For Scott and Lindsay, a summer romance blossomed into a long-term relationship and, later, a wedding to remember at Blithewold Mansion in Bristol, Rhode Island.

From the shores of Newport to the hallowed halls of Boston: Eight inspiring tabletop designs

As the kick-off to the nuptial weekend, the rehearsal dinner sets the tone for the subsequent events, so choosing the right setting, service and ambiance is essential. Options throughout Southern New England range from intimate to grand, depending on the size of your crowd and tone of your party.