Lucky Couple Winners Of 13th Annual Veterans Day Wedding Giveback​ Celebrate Dream Nuptials On Long Island

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NORTH FORK, NY — One lucky couple, the winners of the 13th Annual Veterans Day Wedding Giveback at Brecknock Hall, celebrated their nuptials recently.

The wedding took place on Sunday, November 9, at Brecknock Hall, celebrating the marriage of United States Coast Guard Lieutenant (O-3) Kelly Dacimo, of Orient, and Nicholas Vivo.

The annual contest, sponsored by Peconic Landing and Brecknock Hall, provides a complimentary wedding package each year to current or former military personnel in recognition of their service to the nation.

The giveaway is made possible through the contributions of local businesses and organizations that donate their time, talents, and services, creating a dream wedding for one deserving couple. An estimated $65,000 in services are included.

"Our Veterans Day Wedding Giveback continues to be a heartfelt tribute to the men and women who have served our nation," said Robert J. Syron, president and CEO of Peconic Landing. "Lieutenant Dacimo’s leadership and commitment, paired with the strength and devotion she and Nicholas have shown throughout their journey, are truly inspiring. It’s an honor to celebrate their love story as part of this cherished tradition."

Lieutenant Dacimo has served in the U.S. Coast Guard since 2020 and currently works as a Marine Investigator at Sector Delaware Bay in Philadelphia. A native of the North Fork, she is a Greenport High School graduate and former member of NJROTC, where her dedication to service and leadership began. Throughout her career, she has been recognized with the Coast Guard Achievement Medal for excellence in maritime inspections, a Team Meritorious Award for hurricane response, and the Top Leadership Award at Direct Commission Officer School, Peconic Landing said.

Despite years of long-distance challenges and the demands of military service, Dacimo and Vivo’s bond has only grown stronger. They met through a mutual friend while Dacimo was working as a professional merchant mariner and began a long-distance relationship when she was stationed in Louisiana. In 2022, their relationship was tested when Vivo was hospitalized with a rare heart condition, deepening their connection and resolve. He later proposed in July 2024 during a hike to Oneko Falls in Jim Thorpe, PA.

Reflecting on their special day, the couple said: "Being selected for the Peconic Landing Veterans Day Wedding Giveback has been an experience we’ll cherish forever. Every vendor, volunteer, and member of the Peconic Landing team poured their hearts into making our day unforgettable, and we’re deeply grateful for the generosity and kindness shown to us."

The winning couple was chosen by a panel of Peconic Landing members with military ties, who judged the contest based on years of service, special military honors, and each couple’s unique love story. Dacimo and Vivo were notified during a surprise announcement at Peconic Landing on May 28, surrounded by family members, Peconic Landing members, and team members.

Vendors and volunteers who contributed to the 13th Annual Veterans Day Wedding Giveback included Arni Paperie, Beauty by Devonn, Blooms by Design, Brecknock Hall, Bridge Lane Wines, By Hand Catering, East End Events Catering, Elegant Designs by Joy, Ever Eventful, Face by Anastasia, Fresh Face Photobooths, Greenport Harbor Brewing Company, Greenport Wines & Spirits, JT Santini Photography, KP Designs, Leanne's Specialty Cakes, Long Island Ice & Fuel, Major William Grigonis, McBurnie Tent, Make Some Noise DJ's, Nic's Knack, North Fork Bridal Shoppe, North Fork NJROTC, Riverhead Flower Shop, Sassy Sue's Tasty Treats, Southold Fish Market, Stacey Peterson – I Doll You Up, Sterlington Deli, The Shoals Suites & Slips, Times Review Media Group, Valerie Defio – Independent Consultant at Touchstone Crystal, and Vineyard Vans.

"After 13 years, this tradition continues to showcase the best of the East End," Syron added. "We are grateful to every vendor, volunteer, and supporter who makes it possible to celebrate our military heroes in such a special way."