GREENPORT, N.Y., November 11, 2024 – 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, New York, and Heather Tricoli, 34, of Richmond, Virginia. This 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 our country.
The giveaway is made possible through the generous contributions of local businesses and organizations that donate their time, talents, and services, creating an all-expenses-paid wedding for one deserving 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, special military honors, and each couple’s unique 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. 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. His 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.
Reflecting on their wedding day, Padworski and Tricoli shared, “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, 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 added. “Their generosity showcases the incredible community spirit we cherish here on the East End of Long Island.”
For more information about planning a wedding at Brecknock Hall, please visit www.brecknockhall.com or contact Valerie Tirelli-Hallock, Brecknock Hall Sales & Events Coordinator, at events@brecknockhall.com. Applications for the 2025 Wedding Giveback will be posted in January.
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Peconic Landing is a nationally recognized, equity-based Continuing Care Retirement Community overlooking the breathtaking Long Island Sound. Located on the North Fork on a half-mile of private Sound Beach, the organization works on a mission of being the retirement community of choice for individuals age 62 and better by encouraging our members to enjoy a vibrant lifestyle and presenting ample opportunity for members to pursue their interests and passions to the fullest. For more information on Peconic Landing, please visit www.peconiclanding.org.