In the vibrant world of celebrity romance, the story of Elizabeth Lail and Nieku Manshadi stands out for its charm and authenticity. Their journey, beginning with a chance meeting and culminating in a heartfelt wedding, showcases the beauty of love nurtured through shared experiences. From their initial encounter to the intimate wedding during the pandemic, this article delves into their love story, highlighting key moments and the thoughtful details that made their day special.
A Serendipitous Meeting
Elizabeth Lail and Nieku Manshadi love story began at a friend’s party in Williamsburg, a setting that many might consider ordinary but proved to be the start of something extraordinary. “We met the good old-fashioned way,” Elizabeth shares, highlighting the simplicity of their beginning. Elizabeth is no stranger to the spotlight, having garnered attention for her role as Guinevere Beck in Netflix’s hit thriller You. In contrast, Nieku Manshadi, a dedicated pediatric dentist, represents a grounding presence in her life.
Their relationship blossomed as they navigated the complexities of life, ultimately leading to an engagement that encapsulated intimacy and sentimentality. The couple got engaged during a trip to Montauk, New York, in August 2020, a time when many couples were grappling with uncertainty due to the pandemic. Under the glow of a sunset, while making s’mores, Nieku proposed with a ring that held deep family significance—Elizabeth’s grandmother’s wedding ring. This moment symbolized not only their commitment to each other but also the values of family and tradition that would play a significant role in their union.
Planning Their Dream Wedding
The couple chose April 24, 2021, as the date for their wedding, opting for a venue that held personal significance—Hasbrouck House in Stone Ridge, New York. This location was not just a backdrop for their special day; it was a place where they had celebrated their first anniversary together. “It felt right returning to a place from our story and sharing it with those we love,” Elizabeth remarked, emphasizing the importance of choosing a meaningful venue.
Their wedding planning was heavily influenced by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated a scaled-down guest list. Originally, they could have invited up to 200 guests, but they decided to limit their gathering to just 22 vaccinated loved ones. This decision allowed them to create a safe and intimate atmosphere. Elizabeth reflected, “We decided not to wait, and just invite family to keep it safe for everyone.” The couple was the only guests on the property, enhancing their sense of seclusion and comfort on such a significant day.
An Intuitive Planning Experience
Planning a wedding during a pandemic was not without its challenges, yet Elizabeth and Nieku approached the process with flexibility and intuition. They did not start with a rigid vision; instead, they allowed their preferences to guide them. “We didn’t have a strong vision so we went with what felt right and true to us,” Elizabeth explained. This organic approach resulted in a celebration that truly reflected their personalities.
As the couple engaged with various creatives, including photographers and florists, the vision for their wedding began to take shape naturally. Elizabeth describes the experience as an “entirely intuitive experience,” where their story unfolded gradually. They were able to focus on what mattered most: celebrating their love with family and friends.
A Wedding Dress That Speaks to the Heart
Choosing a wedding dress is often one of the most significant decisions a bride makes, and Elizabeth’s experience was no different. Initially, she purchased a dress that excited her but later realized it didn’t resonate with who she was becoming. “I had bought another dress out of excitement initially but knew in my gut something was off,” she confessed.
Fortunately, UK-based designer Andrea Hawkes stepped in to help create a custom gown that truly represented Elizabeth’s style. The stunning dress, crafted from heavyweight, sandwashed Marrocaine silk, featured silk-lined buttons, a deep-V neckline, fitted bodice, and three-quarter-length sleeves. Elizabeth felt a profound connection to the dress, stating, “There was an ease that came with the dress. It was important for me to still feel like myself.”
Thoughtful Accessories and Meaningful Details
Elizabeth’s wedding look was completed with carefully chosen accessories that held sentimental value. A Tiffany & Co. bracelet gifted by her mother-in-law complemented her ensemble, while her choice of neutral heels from her closet reflected her down-to-earth personality. The bridal bouquet was another significant element, as it set the tone for their wedding’s aesthetic.
“Our colors were inspired by all the spring ephemerals, tulips, and daffodils (my favorite),” she noted. The couple’s florist, Dark and Diamond, crafted a vibrant bouquet wrapped in a piece of lace from Elizabeth’s mother’s wedding dress. This detail exemplified the couple’s commitment to honoring family traditions while creating new memories together.
An Outdoor Ceremony Surrounded by Nature
The wedding day unfolded beautifully, with the couple blessed by perfect weather. Elizabeth expressed her gratitude, stating, “We were blessed with a beautiful day so we were able to have the ceremony outside.” The outdoor setting was adorned with a floral arch created by Dark and Diamond, which added a touch of organic elegance to the ceremony.
Walking down the aisle was an emotional moment for Elizabeth, as she was escorted by her parents. The couple recited traditional vows alongside Baha’i vows, symbolizing their commitment not only to each other but also to their shared values and beliefs. The exchange of wedding bands from ILACrescent and Catbird was a significant moment, marking their promise to one another.
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Personal Touches Throughout the Day
Elizabeth and Nieku Manshadi made their wedding day unique through various personal touches. The couple exchanged letters during their first look, allowing them to connect deeply before the whirlwind of the ceremony began. “It was such a beautiful moment to really connect with one another before adrenaline sweeps you away,” Elizabeth recalled.
Their wedding playlist, curated by Nieku, featured songs that held special meaning for them. Elizabeth walked down the aisle to “Crazy Love” by Van Morrison, and they shared their first kiss to “Elephant Gun” by Beirut. “I haven’t stopped singing these songs since,” she added, emphasizing how music played a vital role in their celebration.
An Intimate Reception Full of Joy
After the ceremony, guests were welcomed with thoughtful gift bags filled with the couple’s favorite items, including Persian tea and gourmet snacks. The dinner was hosted at Butterfield, the on-site restaurant at Hasbrouck House, which Elizabeth described as cozy and inviting. “I wanted our tables to feel like we had cut fresh flowers from my grandmother’s garden,” she said, reflecting her desire for the reception to feel warm and personal.
With family and friends gathered around, the atmosphere was filled with joy and laughter, showcasing the love that surrounded the couple on their special day. The intimate setting allowed for heartfelt conversations and connections, reinforcing the significance of their union.
Reflecting on a Memorable Day
Looking back on their wedding day, Elizabeth acknowledges the role of family and friends in making it a success. “I would have been lost without my sister and one very organized planner with checklists of what to do,” she admits. This support allowed her to focus on the emotional aspects of the day rather than getting bogged down by the details.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Elizabeth and Nieku Manshadi wedding emerged as a beautiful testament to love’s resilience. “We were fairly busy at the time, so my motto was if it doesn’t get done, it wasn’t meant to be,” Elizabeth said. This mindset allowed them to embrace the experience fully, celebrating their union in a way that felt authentic and true to who they are.
Conclusion:
Elizabeth Lail and Nieku Manshadi love story is a poignant reminder of the power of connection and the importance of celebrating love amidst uncertainty. Their intimate wedding, filled with meaningful details and surrounded by loved ones, marked the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. As they continue to build their future together, the memories created on their special day will undoubtedly remain a cherished part of their journey.
