1 Lucky LI Military Couple Wins Free $65K Wedding Of A Lifetime

NORTH FORK, NY — One military couple who has faced the most challenging of times have been named the 2025 winner of Peconi Landing's 2025 Annual Veterans Day Wedding Giveback.

United States Coast Guard Lieutenant (O-3) Kelly Dacimo, 29, of Orient and Nicholas Vivo, 27, are the winners in the 13th annual event.

Lieutenant Dacimo, an active-duty Coast Guard leader and her fiancé, were selected by a panel of Peconic Landing members to win the annual contest, which provides a free wedding at Brecknock Hall to current or former military personnel in recognition of their service. The couple was notified during a surprise reveal at Peconic Landing on May 28 with family members present in person and via Zoom.

Lieutenant Dacimo has served in the U.S. Coast Guard since 2020 and currently holds the rank of Lieutenant (O-3), working as a marine investigator at Sector Delaware Bay in Philadelphia, Peconic Landing said.

A native of Orient, Dacimo’s military service "reflects her dedication to leadership, resilience, and community impact," Peconic Landing said. 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. In addition to her professional role, she has volunteered her time with Military Funeral Honors, Warrior Canine Connection, and educational initiatives through the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Despite the demands of military service and living more than 1,000 miles apart for years, Dacimo and her fiancé, Nicholas Vivo, remained committed to their relationship.

They met through a mutual friend during Dacimo’s time as a professional merchant mariner and began a long-distance relationship while she was stationed in Louisiana.

"In 2022, they faced a major challenge when Vivo was hospitalized with a rare heart condition, an experience that deepened their bond and strengthened their resolve as a couple," Peconic Landing said.

In July 2024, during a hike to Oneko Falls in Jim Thorpe, PA, Vivo proposed.

Dacimo said the North Fork is more than just where she grew up; it represents her roots and values. A graduate of Greenport High School, she was active in NJROTC, team sports, and community service, and spent her summers working at her family’s marina in Orient.

"The North Fork is where my values were shaped," she said. "Marrying Nick in this cherished location would bring our journey full circle."

Dacimo and Vivo will be provided with a complete wedding on Sunday, November 9, in celebration of Veterans Day, to be held at Brecknock Hall.

Sponsored by Peconic Landing, the giveaway is made possible through contributions from local businesses and organizations who donate an estimated $65,000 worth of time, talents, and services to create a fairy tale wedding.

"Lieutenant Dacimo’s service to our nation, along with the strength and devotion she and Nicholas have shown throughout their journey, is truly inspiring," said Robert Syron, president and CEO of Peconic Landing. "Their story is one of resilience, commitment, and love. We are honored to celebrate their wedding at Brecknock Hall as part of our annual tradition of recognizing those who serve."

Dacimo and Vivo were 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.

The Veterans Day Wedding Giveback began in 2011 as an opportunity to thank Long Island’s military personnel and recognize them for their service to our country. The annual 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.

Sponsors of the 2025 Veterans Day Wedding Giveback include: 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, I Doll You Up, JT Santini, KP Designs, Leanne's Specialty Cakes, Long Island Ice & Fuel, McBurnie Tent Rental, Make Some Noise DJs, Nic's Knack, North Fork Bridal Shoppe, North Fork NJROTC, North Fork Picture Cars, Riverhead Flower Shop, Sassy Sue's Sweet Treats, Southold Fish Market, Sterlington Deli, Sugar Magnolias Flowers, The Shoals, Times Review Media Group, Valerie Defio (Independent Consultant, Touchstone Crystal), and Vineyard Vans.