Perry Russom, a correspondent for ABC News, and Leslie Zemnick have tied the knot in a picturesque ceremony held in Cape May, New Jersey. The couple exchanged vows on 17th October 2023, surrounded by 150 family and friends at a location that holds deep sentimental value for both of them.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Perry-Russom-Marries-Leslie-Zemnick079-10192026-237dfc07f0344003a8d4a2a044faadf0.jpg)
Cape May, renowned for its Victorian architecture and coastal charm, has been a significant gathering place for Russom and Zemnick’s families for generations. Russom’s connection to the locale goes back to his grandfather, who purchased a home in nearby Wildwood Crest in 1940. Both Russom and Zemnick, aged 35 and 37 respectively, spent considerable time together in the area during their relationship, further solidifying its importance in their love story.
The wedding embraced the theme of “vintage coastal prep,” a choice reflecting the couple’s nostalgia for family traditions and love stories that have unfolded by the ocean. Russom noted, “We are celebrating generations of love by the ocean with heirloom pieces and nods to family memories.” The couple’s intention was to create an environment that felt both meaningful and warm.
Kicking off their multi-day wedding celebration, guests were welcomed on the evening of 16th October with a rehearsal dinner at The Lobster House, a beloved family establishment. The next day, the couple wed in a heartfelt ceremony at Our Lady Star of the Sea church, officiated by Fr. Dan Joyce, S.J. The mass featured a traditional Catholic service, with several family members taking on special roles, including the couple’s nieces as flower girls and nephews as ring bearers.
In a touching tribute to family heritage, Zemnick wore her mother’s 50-year-old wedding gown, which had been lovingly restored by Connie Kim, owner of Ashley’s Bridal. Her bridal accessories included pearl earrings belonging to her maternal grandmother, a handkerchief from her paternal grandmother, and her mother’s vintage veil. Zemnick reflected on the significance of these items, saying, “We had the chance to think about all the people who helped us get to this point in life.”
Russom’s attire was inspired by a treasured family photo from his grandparents’ wedding in 1956. He wore a black Milano dinner jacket paired with tuxedo trousers from Suitsupply, carefully chosen to mimic his grandfather’s attire, right down to the covered buttons on his shirt. After they recited traditional vows, the couple exchanged wedding rings crafted by Zemnick’s mother, inscribed with their initials and wedding date.
Following the ceremony, the newlyweds and their guests enjoyed a cocktail reception on the wraparound porch of The Chalfonte Hotel, known for its historic significance as the oldest hotel in Cape May. The couple prioritised a relaxed dining atmosphere, opting for warm ivory linens, vintage-inspired dinnerware, and loose florals to enhance the nostalgic decor. Guests relished a menu featuring Southern-inspired options, including fried chicken and crab cakes, complemented by delightful desserts from a local bakery.
As they transitioned into the evening’s celebrations, Russom and Zemnick shared their first dance to “It Had to Be You” by Frank Sinatra, a song that held special meaning from one of their early dates. Russom fondly remembered their shared movie-watching experience, and how the lyrics resonated with him upon meeting Zemnick.
The celebration culminated in an afterparty at The Ugly Mug, a local favourite known for its quirky ceramic mugs adorning the walls. On 20th October, the festivities concluded with a joyous send-off brunch at The Chalfonte.
Reflecting on their journey, the couple acknowledged the role of family in their union. It was Russom’s brother and Zemnick’s cousin’s husband who originally introduced them a decade earlier, although their first encounter didn’t blossom into romance due to distance and demanding careers. A serendipitous reintroduction in 2025 allowed their connection to flourish, leading to nightly phone calls and a whirlwind of emotions.
After spending a week chatting, a visit to New York solidified their bond. “From the moment I met him, I knew we would get married,” Zemnick recalled, while Russom admitted to having penned a letter titled “Read on Wedding Day” after their first date, a confession he revealed only during their wedding.
Their engagement came unexpectedly while they searched for seashells on a beach, and just a few months later, they found themselves uniting as husband and wife. As they embark on this new chapter together, Russom expressed his eagerness for their life ahead, stating, “I know wherever we go and whatever we do, it will be fulfilling because we are together.”
Zemnick also highlighted the balance they offer each other, saying, “I love who I am when I’m with Leslie.” Their shared commitment to family and deep understanding of each other creates a firm foundation upon which they intend to build a life filled with adventure and love.