Centre Island, New York

October 2, 2004

Billy Joel married Katie Lee on October 2, 2004 at his 15-acre waterfront estate in Centre Island, New York.

An a capella group entertained the 210 guests at the base of a waterfall prior to start of the ceremony.

The bride walked down the aisle in a custom-made Oscar de la Renta gown with re-embroidered Chantilly lace, wearing Swarovski encrusted Jimmy Choo sandals and a 50-carat diamond necklace.

The groom wore a black Ralph Lauren suit. Joel’s daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, served as maid of honor and wore a black Oscar de la Renta sheath. 

The couple exchanged traditional vows at the top of a stone staircase. There to witness it were Howard Stern, Don Henley and Joel’s second wife, Christie Brinkley.

For the reception, Katie changed into a black Dolce & Gabanna gown with aquamarine jewels. The party was held in a tent designed to resemble a farmhouse. Coordinated by Marcy Blum, the room was decorated with faux shutters, window sills and hanging orange vines.

The flowers, provided by Stone Kelly, included centerpieces of purple calla lilies placed in cylindrical vases.

A seated Tuscan dinner was catered by Olivier Cheng, who created the menu along with the bride, an aspiring chef. There was also a buffet of fish, meat and cheeses.

For dessert, Sylvia Weinstock Cakes created a four-tier iced chocolate cake, decorated with sugar flowers, lemons, pears and green apples.

The couple shared their first dance to “Moon River,” before Joel joined the wedding band on stage for several songs, including “Try a Little Tenderness,” dedicated to his bride.