Adrienne and David Samen eloped, and shortly after the 21-year-old Marine reservist left for active duty in Iraq. For six months the 18-year-old bride from North Haven, Connecticut, anticipated a fancy wedding reception when her new husband returned.

They finally celebrated with a reception on August 18, 2003, at The Mill on the River restaurant in South Windsor, Connecticut. All was going well until restaurant workers closed the bar at the party. At that point, Adrienne lost control of her temper and began throwing the wedding cake and gifts. She then left the restaurant in a rage.

The police were called, and they found the bride walking down the road in her wedding gown. When they attempted to take her into custody, she kicked the police cruiser's door and even tried to bite an officer.

When Adrienne was brought before Judge Patricia Swords, the magistrate told her, "This behavior does not bode well for the well-being of your marriage."

Samen confessed her behavior was disgraceful, and the judge fined her $90 plus any damages to the restaurant. She also suggested Samen seek substance abuse and anger management counseling. The incident received national attention, with the New York Post and other media dubbing Samen "Bridezilla."