I’m so excited to share some highlights of Alyssa’s big day with you!

Alyssa’s Sweet Sixteen party was filled with good friends, family from all over, lots of laughs, a room full of the best dancers I’ve ever seen, and was one of the most fun Sweet 16’s I’ve been to. It was held at the Gran Centurions Banquet Hall in Clark, NJ and was decorated DIY style. Soft pinks and grays with purple uplighting, florals and shimmering silvers covered each of the tables for an elegant feel. (Great job, Mom!)

Gran Centurions Banquet Hall Clark NJ

Gran Centurions Clark NJ Sweet 16

I loved the “Gather here with grateful hearts” sign at the entrance to the venue!

Alyssa wore a gorgeous gown and was escorted by her court of 4 girls and 5 guys wearing pinks and grays. Everyone looked stunning, but especially Alyssa! She looked like a princess! We started the night with formals taken outdoors, just before it started down-pouring. We got really lucky and missed the rain. <3

Sweet 16 Court

Sweet 16 Court

Sweet 16 Court

After photos with her crew, we of course took photos of her beautiful family. 

Sweet 16 Family Formals

…and then the party was ready to start with a grand entrance and first dance with her partner.

Grand Entrances for Sweet 16 at Gran Centurions Clark NJ

First Dance Sweet 16

After the first dance of the night, there was an exchanging of the shoe ceremony and then her first dance with her father.

Exchanging of Shoe Ceremony

First Dance with Father at Sweet 16

He picked her up and spun her around like a true princess! It was a beautiful dance.

After their first dance her father, Derwin, gave a heartfelt speech. 

Speeches at Sweet 16

Once he concluded his speech and they blessed their food with prayer the buffet started. The Gran Centurions Banquet Hall had an amazing spread. The food was so delicious!

Gran Centurions Banquet Hall Catering Food

Sweet 16 Guests

After dinner the party really got started. DJ Un-OwN was great and kept everyone dancing all night long! Of course, it all started with the Cupid Shuffle…

The Cupid Shuffle Sweet 16 Party

Sweet 16 Dancing Photos

Sweet 16 Dancing Photos

Nearing the end of the night Alyssa had a beautiful Sixteen Candles Ceremony honoring the family and friends that have helped shape her into who she is today. 

This lead into cake cutting and the end of the evening.

Family with Cake at Sweet 16

Large Family Group Shot at Sweet 16

I had such a great time with this family at Alyssa’s Sweet 16. Thank you for giving me the honor of capturing your memories!

And thank you to all the great vendors I worked with:

Venue – Gran Centurions in Clark, NJ 

DJ – DJ Un-OwN

Videographer – Greg Berzinski

For more information about my Event Photography Services, visit: www.heatherpalecek.com/event-photography