GREENPORT, N.Y., February 8, 2024– Peconic Landing is proud to announce the 12th Annual Veterans Day Wedding Giveback, hosted at Brecknock Hall. The not-for-profit organization is currently seeking applicants for the annual contest, which provides a free wedding each year to current or former military personnel in recognition of their service, thanks to the commitment of local businesses and area volunteers.
The event began in 2011 as an opportunity to thank Long Island’s military personnel and recognize them for their service to our country. Sponsored by Peconic Landing, the giveaway is made possible through contributions from local businesses and organizations who donate the time, talents, and services to create an all-expenses-paid wedding for one lucky couple.
The most recent winning couple was Lieutenants Edward (Eddie) Joseph Wright IV, 28, of Orient, New York and Sarah Ritchie, 28, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The couple was notified during a surprise announcement at Peconic Landing on May 18, 2023, with family members, Peconic Landing members, and Peconic Landing team members present.
“Our wedding was an absolute dream,” said the couple. “We are grateful beyond words for the amazing community of vendors that made our wedding day flawless for our guests and ourselves. We had the opportunity to meet with most of the people who donated to the Wedding Giveback this year, and we were so awed by their generosity, kindness, and the passion that they put into their work. Thank you to the panel of judges at Peconic Landing that chose us, to Valerie for all her orchestration, to all the helping hands that contributed, and to our guests for traveling from far and wide to make our day so special.”
This year’s winning couple will again be provided with a wedding free of charge, accommodating up to 82 guests and taking place on Sunday, November 10, 2024 in celebration of Veterans Day. The contest is open to both current and veteran service members; at least one partner must have served or be serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Applicants can visit http://www.brecknockhall.com/veterans-day/ to enter by April 15.
The winning couple will be chosen by a panel of Peconic Landing members with military ties, who judge the contest based on the number of years served, special military honors, and each couple’s personal love story. Couples must be available for a live or virtual interview to be considered for the contest.
“As we begin the journey towards our 12th Veterans Day Wedding Giveback, we extend our sincere appreciation to the local businesses whose unwavering support continues to make this initiative possible,” said Robert J. Syron, President and CEO of Peconic Landing. “It is through their generous contributions that we can express our gratitude to veterans and military members for their service and sacrifice. We invite all eligible veterans and active-duty personnel to apply for this special opportunity as we honor their dedication to our country.” An estimated $65,000 worth of services and in-kind donations are contributed each year. Those wishing to contribute can contact Valerie Tirelli-Hallock, Brecknock Hall Sales & Events Coordinator at events@brecknockhall.com.