Military Couple Wins Free Dream Wedding On Long Island

GREENPORT, NY — One lucky military couple experienced the wedding of their dreams at Brecknock Hall in Greenport recently — and the entire event was free, to honor their service to the United States.

The 12th annual "Veterans Day Wedding Giveback" took place on Sunday, November 10, at Brecknock Hall, celebrating the marriage of Chief Boatswain’s Mate First Class (BM1) Alexander "Alex" Padworski, 32, of Mattituck, and Heather Tricoli, 34, of Richmond, Virginia.

The annual contest, sponsored by Peconic Landing and Brecknock Hall, provides a free wedding 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 an all-expenses-paid wedding for one military couple. An estimated $65,000 in services are included.

"Our Veterans Day Wedding Giveback is a heartfelt tribute to honor and support those who have served our nation," said Robert J. Syron, president and CEO of Peconic Landing. "Alex and Heather embody the spirit of resilience and commitment, and it is a privilege to help them celebrate their love on this special day."

The winning couple was chosen by a panel of Peconic Landing members with military ties, who judged the contest based on years of service, military honors, and each couple’s love story. Padworski and Tricoli were notified during a surprise announcement at Peconic Landing on May 15, surrounded by family members, Peconic Landing members, and team members.

Padworski has been in active service since 2011, dedicating over a decade to the U.S. Navy. He is currently stationed at PCU John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) in Virginia, "where he plays a vital role in the ship's commissioning process," Peconic Landing staff said. "Throughout his service, he has taken on numerous leadership roles, contributing to critical missions and operations, and was recently promoted to Chief in 2024. His dedication and leadership have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal, the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, and various campaign medals for deployments in support of international operations."

Padworski's romance with Tricoli began after his return from deployment in January 2022 and "blossomed over shared adventures, culminating in a magical proposal at Disney World," Peconic Landing said in a releasea.

Reflecting on their wedding day, Padworski and Tricoli said: "Thank you so much for giving us our dream wedding! To all of the people that made this possible, thank you for the incredible support you show to the military, active and veteran. We are so thankful for you making this dream come true for us!"

Vendors and volunteers who contributed to the 12th Annual Veterans Day Wedding Giveback included Amanda Seely Photography, Arni Paperie, Beautiful by Dina, Beauty by Devon, Blooms by Design, Brecknock Hall, Bridge Lane Wines, By Hand Catering, Dr. Beat Productions, East End Events Catering, Ever Eventful, Fresh Face Photobooths, Greenport Harbor Brewing Company, Greenport Wines & Spirits, Jerri's Cakes & Confections, KP Designs, Libby Koch, Mad Fashion Love XO, McBurnie Tent Rental, Nic's Knack Alterations, North Fork Bridal Shoppe, North Fork Picture Cars, Pellegrini Vineyards, Riverhead Flower Shop, the Southold/Mattituck/Greenport NJROTC, Southold Fish Market, Sterlington Deli, Sugar Magnolias Flowers, The Shoals Inn & Suites, Times Review Media Group, Vineyard Vans, and White Diamond Video.

"We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the local businesses who made this celebration possible,” Syron said. "Their generosity showcases the incredible community spirit we cherish here on the East End of Long Island."