Picture this: a crisp spring afternoon in Manhattan, where the skyline peeks through like a mischievous guest at the party. Amid the hum of taxis and the faint scent of blooming lilacs, Eugina Song and Eddy Man Kim tied the knot—not just with vows, but with a cascade of silk ribbons and playful bows that wove their love story into every corner of their celebration. It was May 25, 2025, at The Pool NYC, a modernist gem tucked inside the Seagram Building. What started as a simple accessory choice for Eugina’s gown blossomed into a full-blown theme, blending their worlds of art and architecture into a wedding that felt like a living installation. As someone who’s planned three weddings (including my sister’s chaotic-but-charming Brooklyn bash), I can tell you: this wasn’t just pretty; it was profoundly personal.
The Spark That Started It All: Eugina and Eddy’s Love Story
Eugina and Eddy first locked eyes at Cornell University, back when she was diving deep into art history and he was sketching blueprints for future skylines. Their paths truly intertwined during a study abroad program in Rome in 2008, where cobblestone streets and ancient ruins fueled late-night talks about creativity and dreams.
It was that shared passion for design that made their bond unbreakable—two souls who saw beauty in the details, from a perfectly proportioned archway to the curve of a handwritten note. Fast-forward to October 2023, and Eddy dropped to one knee at Federal Hall, a spot echoing Rome’s Pantheon with its grand dome and quiet reverence. “It felt like coming full circle,” Eugina later shared, her voice warm with that post-proposal glow.
For me, hearing their story hits close to home. My husband and I met on a rainy hike upstate, bonding over bad trail mix and big ideas about building a life together. There’s something magical about couples who turn their quirks into a wedding’s heartbeat—like how ribbons became theirs.
How a Single Dress Choice Tied Everything Together
Once Eugina slipped into her gown—a stunning piece with delicate ribbon cutouts—she knew bows were non-negotiable. It wasn’t about trends; it was about echoing her everyday style, those little flourishes that make her feel put-together amid the chaos of city life.
From there, the motif snowballed: bow-tied shoes, ribbon-wrapped bouquets, even subtle nods in the invitations. It’s a reminder that weddings thrive on those “aha” moments, where one decision ripples out like a well-thrown pebble in Central Park’s lake.
Why Ribbons and Bows Make Perfect Wedding Motifs
In a world of over-the-top florals and LED walls, ribbons and bows offer a soft, versatile anchor—think of them as the Swiss Army knife of decor. They’re affordable, endlessly customizable, and whisper elegance without shouting.
Eugina and Eddy’s use of them unified their event, turning a sleek Midtown venue into a whimsical gallery of textures. I once helped a friend DIY bow centerpieces for her elopement, and let’s just say: what started as a hot glue gun fiasco ended in Instagram gold. The key? Layering materials for depth.
The Pros and Cons of a Bow-Themed Wedding
Embracing bows isn’t all fluff—here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide if it’s your vibe.
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Super budget-friendly; ribbons start at $5 a spool. | Can add up if sourcing high-end silks or custom dyes. |
| Versatility | Works for rustic, modern, or boho—mix with metallics for edge. | Overuse risks looking juvenile; balance is key. |
| Personalization | Easy to tie in colors from your love story, like Eugina’s ivory and blush palette. | Allergies to fabrics might limit guest interaction. |
| Sustainability | Opt for reusable or recycled options for an eco-twist. | Synthetic ribbons aren’t always recyclable—check labels. |
This table saved my sanity during my own planning; it’s a cheat sheet for turning “what if” into “watch this.”
Venue Spotlight: The Pool NYC as a Canvas for Creativity
The Pool NYC, nestled in the iconic Seagram Building, isn’t just a spot—it’s a statement. Designed by Mies van der Rohe, its black steel frames and travertine floors scream mid-century cool, making it ideal for design-obsessed couples like Eugina and Eddy.
They chose it after their dream spot, the Four Seasons restaurant, shuttered in 2019—a plot twist that led to something even better. With 90 guests, the space felt intimate yet grand, like hosting a gala in your favorite museum. If you’re scouting NYC venues, check out The Pool’s site for virtual tours—trust me, the photos don’t do the light justice.
Comparing Top Spring Wedding Venues in NYC
New York City’s spring scene is a venue buffet, but here’s how The Pool stacks up against other gems for that fresh-bloom energy.
| Venue | Capacity | Vibe | Price Range (per event) | Unique Perk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Pool NYC | 50-150 | Modernist chic | $20K+ | Architectural history with skyline views |
| Brooklyn Botanic Garden | 100-200 | Lush and romantic | $15K-$25K | Cherry blossoms in peak season |
| Tribeca Rooftop | 75-250 | Urban rooftop | $18K+ | Panoramic city lights for after-parties |
| 620 Loft & Garden | 50-200 | Timeless elegance | $10K-$20K | Central Park proximity for photos |
| Battery Gardens | 100-300 | Waterfront serenity | $12K-$22K | Hudson River sunsets |
Pro tip: Book six months out for spring—slots vanish faster than a street hot dog on a sunny day.
Attire That Wove the Theme Seamlessly
Eugina’s gown was the bow’s birthplace: a minimalist silhouette with ribbon appliqués that danced in the light, paired with Mach & Mach bow heels and Jennifer Behr earrings that added just the right sparkle. “I wanted to feel like myself, but elevated,” she said, and boy, did she nail it.
Eddy kept it sharp in a custom navy suit, his calla lily boutonnière secured with a crisp white bow—a subtle tie-in that had guests cooing. For grooms leaning into themes, it’s about balance: one thoughtful detail over a full costume change.
Where to Source Bow-Inspired Bridal Accessories
Hunting for that perfect bow touch? Start with these navigational gems—no endless scrolling required.
- Untamed Petals for hair pins: Delicate and under $50, like Eugina’s go-to.
- Jennifer Behr on their site: Earrings that double as heirlooms.
- Mach & Mach for shoes: Luxe bows that won’t pinch after the first dance.
I snagged similar pieces for my cousin’s wedding, and they held up through rain and revelry.
Floral Magic: Blending Simplicity with Statement Pieces
Florist Sophia Mullin turned the venue into a ribbon-wrapped dreamscape, starting with Eugina’s single pink King Protea bouquet trailed by an ivory ribbon—bold yet bridal. Tables bloomed with white calla lilies in vases bowed at the neck, echoing the couple’s clean aesthetic.
Eddy’s boutonnière, a lone calla lily with a white bow, was a quiet hero, tying him to the theme without stealing the floral show. Spring in NYC means protea and dogwood are your MVPs—vibrant but not overwhelming.
DIY Bouquet Wrapping Ideas for Your Big Day
Want to channel this at home? Here’s a bullet-point blueprint for bow-tied bliss:
- Classic Ivory Trail: Use 3 yards of silk ribbon; loop loosely around stems for a 2-foot drape. Cost: $10.
- Colored Layered Bows: Stack blush and navy ribbons; secure with floral wire. Add baby’s breath for whimsy.
- Rustic Burlap Twist: Pair with tulle for texture—perfect for outdoor NYC spots like Prospect Park.
- Protea Power: One large bloom + bow = Eugina’s vibe. Source from local markets like Chelsea for freshness.
My first DIY bouquet attempt? A lopsided mess. Lesson learned: Practice on grocery store daisies first.
Ceremony Highlights: Vows, Music, and Mirror Magic
Under a custom arch of ribbon, tulle, and burlap—framed by calla lilies and flickering candles—the ceremony unfolded like a private performance. No aisle runner; instead, mirror mylar sheets nodded to Eugina’s art studio walls, reflecting light and love.
A Juilliard string quartet set the scene, with Eddy striding in to Wagner’s “Ride of the Valkyries”—a surprise march that had everyone twisting in their seats, laughing. Eugina followed to Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1, arm-in-arm with her dad, their vows a heartfelt chat of promises.
It reminded me of my wedding, where a rogue wind flipped our arch mid-vows—turns out, imperfections make the best stories. For informational seekers: What makes a ceremony unforgettable? Personal touches like these.
Incorporating Art and Architecture into Your Vows
Draw from your backgrounds for depth—Eugina and Eddy wove in references to Rome’s ruins and NYC’s grids. Keep it under two minutes per person; rehearse with a trusted friend.
Humor alert: Eddy’s “prophetic march” entrance? Peak dad-joke energy. If you’re the dramatic type, own it—guests eat it up.
Reception Revelry: From Cocktails to Cake
Cocktail hour buzzed with passed apps like arancini and crab cakes, signature sips including the “Grill Sour” (gin, lemon, honey, elderflower), and trailing ribbons on the staircase for that Instagram-worthy descent.
Escort cards featured a custom logo with couple illustrations, bowed with dogwood sprigs. Centerpieces? Laser-etched guest photos on canvas, framed in cement casts—edgy favors that doubled as place settings. The cake from Duchess of Cameron was a bow-topped masterpiece: vanilla with buttercream, simple yet stunning.
Major Food Group handled catering with a menu of grilled meats and seasonal veggies, keeping it NYC-fresh. Posh DJ spun tracks that had even the architecture nerds on the floor till midnight.
Transactional Tips: Best Tools for Ribbon-Wrapped Reception Decor
Ready to shop? Here’s your hit list for pulling off a bow-infused bash:
- Ribbon Suppliers: Michaels for bulk spools ($0.50/yard) or Etsy for custom prints.
- Favor Kits: Amazon’s bow-tying sets—under $20 for 50.
- LED Bird Lights: Eddy’s nod to his Bird Lab nonprofit; snag from Target for $15 each.
I once budgeted a reception with dollar-store ribbons—proves you don’t need deep pockets for big impact.
Lessons from a Bow-Studded Bash: Budgeting and Execution
Planning this 90-guest affair ran about $150K, with decor at 15% thanks to smart sourcing. Day-of coordinator Dave Adamick from Events by Jesse was the unsung hero, juggling quick changes like a pro.
For expertise: Allocate 10-20% of your budget to themes—ribbons stretch dollars. And always have a Plan B for NYC weather; theirs stayed sunny, but backups matter.
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Design-Focused Coordinator
| Factor | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Creativity | Translates visions like Eugina’s into reality. | Higher fees ($5K+). |
| Stress Relief | Handles vendors; you focus on fun. | Less control if you’re a micromanager. |
| Network | Access to pros like Heather Waraksa’s photography. | Vetting takes time. |
From experience: Skip it only if you’re Type A supreme—otherwise, it’s a game-changer.
People Also Ask: Your Burning Ribbon Questions Answered
Drawing from real Google searches, here’s the scoop on bow basics—straight from the SERP trenches.
How to Make a Large Wedding Bow?
Grab 10 yards of wired ribbon, loop into 8-inch tails, and secure with a zip tie. Fluff layers for volume—takes 10 minutes, costs under $10. Perfect for pew ends or arches, as seen in Eugina’s setup.
What’s the Best Ribbon for Wedding Bouquets?
Silk or satin for durability; 2-3 inches wide in ivory or blush. Tie in a loose bow for elegance—Eugina’s protea trail proves it lasts through toasts.
Can Bows Work for Modern Weddings?
Absolutely—pair with metallics or mylar for edge. Skip frills; think structured knots. It’s versatile, like Eddy’s minimalist boutonnière.
DIY vs. Pro for Bow Decor: Which Wins?
DIY saves cash but eats time; pros ensure polish. Hybrid: Buy bulk, hire for install. My vote? DIY for small touches, pro for statements.
FAQ: Real User Questions on Bow-Themed NYC Weddings
Got queries? We’ve got answers, pulled from forums and chats.
Q: What are some long-tail ideas for incorporating ribbons into a spring NYC wedding?
A: Trail them from chandeliers at rooftop spots like Tribeca, or wrap favor boxes with city-map prints. Keeps it local and lush—think dogwood accents for that May bloom.
Q: Where can I find affordable bow accessories in New York City?
A: Hit ABC Carpet & Home for ribbons, or Pearl River Market in Chinatown for $2 spools. Budget hack: Sample sales at bridal boutiques.
Q: How do I avoid overdoing bows in a design-centric theme?
A: Limit to 3-4 elements per space—bouquet, chairs, cake. Eugina’s rule: One per “zone” for balance without bow-overload.
Q: Best tools for tying perfect invitation bows?
A: A bow-tying jig ($10 on Amazon) or wax seals for seal-and-tie flair. Practice on junk mail; elevates Paperless Post suites like theirs.
Q: Is The Pool NYC worth it for a 100-guest spring event?
A: Yes—for the architecture alone. Views and vibe justify the splurge, but book early; spring fills fast.
Wrapping It Up: Why This Wedding Lingers Like a Perfect Knot
Eugina and Eddy’s day wasn’t flawless—quick fixes mid-setup, a quartet mic glitch—but that’s the poetry of it. Ribbons fluttered in the breeze, bows held firm, and love? It tied it all. As they skipped a honeymoon for NYC wanderings with far-flung family, it felt like the real celebration: presence over postcards.
If you’re dreaming of your own design-centric “I do,” start with what makes you both tick. Maybe it’s bows, or blueprints, or something wildly unexpected. Either way, make it yours—because the best weddings aren’t planned; they’re unraveled, one joyful loop at a time.
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