George & Elizabeth at Nauticus Marina

When one says that something will be “the social event of the season,” most would assume that claim is hyperbole. Yet when it came to the Cape Cod wedding of George Regan, founder and CEO of Regan Communications Group, and his beloved, Elizabeth Akeley, that might actually be an understatement. Social event of the year, or quite possibly the decade, would be more fitting.

According to the couple’s wedding website, George and Elizabeth’s relationship began with the ultimate meet-cute moment: he, the harried businessman overwhelmed by onboard airline technology; she, the seasoned flight attendant who knew how to solve the problem (getting the TV to work).

A chat ensued. A romance blossomed. A proposal of epic proportions followed. And then the wedding took place on a sultry July afternoon at Nauticus Marina, a waterfront Cape Cod wedding venue in Osterville, MA.

cape cod wedding caterer — *Photos via wedding website.*

George’s plan for a surprise Nantucket engagement required the use of a helicopter, something the bride is so not a fan of, and a miles-long Jeep ride. Having the ring delivered by Elizabeth’s precious pup, Levi Jean, must have made up for the harrowing helicopter ride because she said, “Yes!” without a moment’s hesitation.

The weekend-long wedding began with a rehearsal dinner at Willowbend, where the groom has lived for years. Guests were entertained by the renowned James Montgomery Band, and Scott Brown and the Diplomats (yes, that Scott Brown).

The couple shared a private first look just after noon on the “big day,” and guests began arriving for the “big moment” shortly before 2:00. A saxophonist entertained guests as they mingled before the ceremony, and a hot dog cart was on hand should anyone feel the need for a pre-ceremony snack. Hot dogs were an absolute must; the groom loves them!

At 2:30, Elizabeth arrived at Nauticus Marina via a refurbished tugboat (so Cape Cod!). As the Morning Star Baptist Choir sang from the steps of the iconic lighthouse at Nauticus Marina, the bride made her way down the aisle wearing a wedding gown designed by Made with Love Bridal that was aptly named “The Georgie.”

Elizabeth’s custom-made, sheath-style gown featured a plunging back and a beaded overlay adorned with fields of four-leaf clovers. Her dramatic bouquet was created by The Salty Florist.

Nearly 400 guests looked on as the couple said “I do.” You may recognize their wedding officiant from the news (psssst…it’s Governor Charlie Baker).

Another familiar face offered a traditional Irish blessing during the ceremony, New England Patriots CEO Robert Kraft. Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito offered words of congratulations during the ceremony.

We could go on and on (and on and on) about the who’s-who guest list but, you know, we’re Cape Cod wedding caterers, so let’s talk about food.

The cocktail hour featured a traditional raw bar brimming with fresh, local shellfish, as well as a selection of passed hors d’oeuvres that included citrus swordfish bites with a pomegranate dipping sauce, tenderloin and brie sliders, and truffled mac and cheese tartlets. Also available during the cocktail hour? Hot dogs from the hot dog cart!

The couple, or should we say trio (wait for it) opted for three signature cocktails: a favorite chardonnay for him, and vodka and soda with a splash of cranberry for her. Levi Jean – you remember her…the puppy from the engagement – garnered her own cocktail, an Aperol spritz. So cute!

With such a large group, the venue wasn’t able to hold both the ceremony and the reception, so the party moved next door to the Dillon House for dinner and dancing. Before the entrée, a duet of rosemary and black pepper grilled filet and jumbo shrimp with lump crab stuffing, toasts were offered by a litany of dignitaries, with Scott Zolak, a broadcaster and former New England Patriot, acting as emcee.

As dancing commenced, with The Zoo, a famed band from NYC, rocking the house, Elizabeth and George snuck away to pose for a few romantic photos as the sun set over the gorgeous location. Overall, the day was Cape Cod wedding perfection personified.