This is the captivating tale of Alexandra "Ali" O'Neill, the creative force behind the New York-based fashion label Markarian, and Brent Leo-Smith, a dedicated wildlife guide, photographer, and filmmaker. Their love story, sparked by an unexpected encounter on an African safari, culminated in a beautifully orchestrated New York City wedding. The celebrations were infused with personal touches, highlighting their journey from the African wilderness to the urban jungle, surrounded by cherished friends and family.
The Unfolding of a Modern Romance: From Safari to City Nuptials
The romance between Alexandra O'Neill and Brent Leo-Smith began in an unlikely setting: the African bush. Alexandra's mother and grandmother, avid followers of Brent's safari broadcasts, orchestrated a trip to Africa, which Alexandra joined on a whim in 2023. This serendipitous journey led to their initial meeting amidst the vast landscapes of the bush, a moment Alexandra describes as "impossibly cinematic." Their connection deepened, leading them to split their time between vibrant New York City and the tranquil African wilderness. In 2025, a quiet Christmas morning engagement in South Africa, with their beloved Jack Russell by their side, solidified their bond. There were no elaborate plans, just a simple, heartfelt proposal that perfectly encapsulated their relationship.
Four months later, their wedding celebrations commenced in New York City. Alexandra's sister meticulously planned the entire weekend, ensuring Alexandra's close involvement in every detail. Event planner Chris Hessney from Hessney and Co. and florist Mikey Putnam from Rosendich provided invaluable support, transforming their vision into reality. The bride, being a designer herself, created four distinct ensembles for the festivities, each reflecting the romantic and textural aesthetic of her brand, Markarian. The weekend began with an intimate rehearsal dinner at Wild Cherry in the West Village, chosen to offer Brent's South African guests a playful yet authentic taste of New York. Speeches from both families and close friends filled the air with laughter and heartfelt sentiments.
The following day, May 30th, the couple exchanged vows in a small Greek Orthodox ceremony at Saint John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church in Gramercy Park. The church held deep personal significance for Alexandra, having been a cherished place for her late Greek grandmother. Brent walked down the aisle to Nick Cave's "Into My Arms," a song that resonated with them since the early days of their courtship. The ceremony incorporated traditional Greek elements, including the stefana (crowns symbolizing unity), crafted by milliner Gigi Burris, and the sharing of a traditional wedding cup, a cherished family heirloom used by Alexandra's parents. The ceremony concluded with the "Dance of Isaiah," symbolizing their eternal journey together. As they exited the church, rose petals rained down from their joyful guests, and the newlyweds embarked on a celebratory drive through the city in a vintage car, met with cheers and well wishes from passersby.
For the dinner reception at Il Cantinori, Alexandra changed into a custom strapless corseted gown featuring a dropped waist lace skirt with a delicate lattice pattern, accented with shimmering paillettes. A chiffon and lace wrap completed her elegant look. Il Cantinori, a restaurant close to Alexandra's heart since her youth, was transformed with stunning florals by Mikey Putnam and a custom embroidered cafe curtain bearing the couple's names, a thoughtful detail orchestrated by Alexandra's sister. The dinner was a warm and memorable affair, filled with delicious food, shared stories, and moving speeches from their loved ones. The evening culminated in an energetic after-party at People's, where Alexandra, in a lilac, rose, and mint pearl-beaded lace dress of her own design, danced the night away with her friends and family to the vibrant beats of DJ Kristine Barilli. It was a joyous celebration of love, family, and personal style, marking the beginning of their shared life together.
This wedding celebration truly underscores the beauty of combining personal history with new beginnings. From an unexpected connection forged in the wild landscapes of Africa to an intimate yet grand celebration in the heart of New York City, Alexandra and Brent's story is a testament to love's unpredictable journey and the power of family and community in shaping life's most cherished moments. Their wedding was not just an event, but a reflection of their unique personalities and the enduring bonds that unite them.