Maine Wedding Ideas and Inspiration

What’s More Perfect Than a Wedding on a Lavender Farm? Nothing.

This wedding planned by The Purple Orchid took place at a working lavender and flower farm, situated on the banks of a river in Maine. Yes it is as adorable and perfect as it sounds, and we have the photos by Christine Bernales to prove it! Get ready for all the pretty.

Colors

Seasons

Summer Weddings

Settings

Farm

Styles

Rustic

From the bride and groom… After stalking the weather apps for two weeks straight, we ended up with blue skies and a beautiful July day. We worked with some amazing vendors! We were obsessed with all the details – from the flowers to the specialty cocktails to the tablescapes and everything in between. A special day was made even more special by all the people who paid such great attention to executing the details. We were able to sneak away from the reception to just look at how it all unfolded and felt really lucky. It was a heck of a party, people knew to bring their dancing shoes. Now that the chaos is over, we are looking forward to life together and will always look back fondly on our amazing wedding day!

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here

Wedding Dresses

Monique Lhuillier

Monique Lhuillier Bridal Fall 2015

Monique Lhuillier Bridesmaids Fall 2015

Spring 2016

View All Collections

9 Wedding Locations You Havent Heard About Yet

We know that finding the perfect wedding venue isn’t always easy, especially if you’re looking for something that totally speaks to you and yours. So today we’re running through a list of nine (yes, NINE) fab venues we absolutely love, so you can find that dream locale. Scroll for some hidden gems you haven’t even heard of.

THE ST. REGIS WASHINGTON, D.C.

Why we love it: Just steps from the White House, The St. Regis Washington, D.C. is the perfect mix of luxe accommodations and upscale wedding offerings – all with a dash of historical charm. You can opt for a cocktail hour in the Italianate revival lobby, or celebrate your “I do’s” in the Astor Ballroom with its hand-stenciled ceiling (an original 1926 decorative feature) and Palladian windows overlooking The Astor Terrace. This place is beautiful, you guys – and it’s no wonder it continues to be named the “Best Hotel for Small Weddings” by Washington Magazine. It’s just that good.

What you can’t miss: The Astor Terrace. Perfect for ceremonies OR receptions, this gem of an outdoor space features a dreamy fountain. Need we say more?

W SCOTTSDALE

Why we love it: Located smack-dab in the middle of Scottsdale’s Entertainment District, W Scottsdale is every modern lovin’ bride’s dream. Think totally chic contemporary spaces (both indoor and outdoor) perfect for celebrating your Big Day, plus amazing accommodations that will make your entire wedding weekend.

What you can’t miss: Their fab W Insider service. It’s concierge plus some with everything you’ll ever need just a push of a button away. Whatever you want, whenever you want it.

LE MÉRIDIEN DELFINA SANTA MONICA

Why we love it: Situated just three blocks from the ocean with great access and breathtaking views, plus offering up some awesome amenities for guests (hey there, Bicycle Programme), Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica seamlessly combines a glam spot to say “I do” with all of that laid-back Southern Cali charm we love so much. We’re obsessed with their Pool Terrace receptions, not to mention their chef-inspired catering menus and views of the Pacific Ocean.

What you can’t miss: Their venues. From the Delfina Ballroom to the Terrazza Garden, Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica has you covered when it comes to celebrating in style.

HOTEL COLONNADE CORAL GABLES, A TRIBUTE PORTFOLIO HOTEL

Why we love it: Ideal for those travel lovers who want to say “I do” in complete luxury, the Hotel Colonnade Coral Gables has elegant weddings (and accommodations) down to an absolute science. From their 23,000 square feet of event space to their gorgeous venue options (hello, marble-tiled rotunda) to their talented staff that knows everything there is to know about throwing the perfect wedding, you’ll most definitely be making a statement.

What you can’t miss: Their Make a Green Choice Program. Guests receive a $5 food credit or 500 SPG points just for making the choice to conserve natural resources in their room. We love that.

THE WESTIN CHICAGO NORTHWEST

Why we love it: It’s hard not to fall in love with a setting as pretty as Hamilton Lake and when you add in a climate-controlled tent and fully-renovated guest rooms, you have yourselves one of the prettiest wedding locales in all of Chicago. Plus, the Westin Chicago Northwest also offers up a plethora of indoor + outdoor venue options, customizable menus AND your very own wedding specialist.

What you can’t miss: Their 24-hour room service. (Enough said.)

SHERATON SAN DIEGO HOTEL & MARINA

Why we love it: You honestly can’t go wrong with a San Diego wedding, and the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina is the epitome of a perfect SoCal soiree with a gorgeous seaside location and deluxe amenities. Now add in a stunning garden ceremony spot (with marina views) and indoor venue options that are just as cool and you have the perfect place to say “I do.”

What you can’t miss: The Culinary team. They’ve been named “Best Caterer” by San Diego Magazine for 15 years running. Yum.

THE EQUINOX, A LUXURY COLLECTION GOLF RESORT & SPA, VERMONT

Why we love it: You know we can never get enough of Vermont weddings and if you’re looking for the perfect destination spot: this is it. From their three unique venues (Pond Pavilion, Colonnade Ballroom and Meadow House) to the amazing views of the Equinox Mountain and the Taconic Mountain Ridge, The Equinox Resort has everything you’ll ever need for that dream wedding… AND can accommodate anywhere from 80 to 250 guests.

What you can’t miss: The activities. This four-season resort offers up a world of fun-filled adventures, from golfing to skiing to fishing to snowshoeing – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

THE ST. ANTHONY, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, SAN ANTONIO

Why we love it: Four words: Open-air rooftop ballroom. Yep, you can literally dance the night away under the stars. Plus, the St. Anthony has been hosting weddings for over a century, so you know you’re in good hands with their talented staff of event professionals. From their gorgeous rooms to their convenient downtown locale, you won’t be missing a thing.

What you can’t miss: The details. From crystal chandeliers to a winding staircase to theatrical lighting and a 19th Century French tapestry, get ready for some non-stop oohing and ahhing.

THE WESTIN GALLERIA & OAKS HOUSTON

Why we love it: If you’re having a celebration with a lot of out-of-town guests, you can’t pick a locale better than the Westin Galleria & Oaks Houston. Its Uptown location paired with its amazing guest amenities and reception space for up to 1,000 makes it the ideal location for those looking to explore the Galleria neighborhood of Houston. Think shopping, dining and spa-ing the days away. It’s perfect.

What you can’t miss: The Monarch Ballroom. With floor-to-ceiling windows and views of the city, this 24th floor gem is a reception dreamland.

Visit SPG Weddings to find out even more about these hidden gems AND all of the amazing perks of having an SPG Wedding. You can thank us later, friends.

Emotional + Heartfelt Wedding Planned in Just 2 Weeks

For Danielle and Richard, their gorgeous wedding was not just a celebration of love, it was a celebration of life. The two had been together and had three handsome sons over the past 17 years before Richard was diagnosed with cancer. A reminder of life’s fragility, they decided to reinforce their commitment to each other through marriage vows. Their nuptials were planned in just two weeks with the help of wonderful friends, family, and vendors – an exquisite celebration of endless love – before Richard passed away shortly after. A. Fogarty Photography and Happy Camper Film & Photo captured this heartbreakingly beautiful day, and both the photographer and the Bride share touching words below.

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/213390124 600 338]

Colors

Seasons

Spring Weddings

Settings

Urban Space

Styles

Romantic

From A. Fogarty Photography… On March 8th, I received a call from one of my very best friends. She told me that she and her partner of 17 years were finally going to get married. She asked if I would be interested in capturing their day alongside our mutual best friend, Mackenzie Lamoureux. Of course I was filled with excitement for her and grateful to be a part of their day. She also told me it would be happening on March 25th, just a little over two weeks away, and that they would be surprising their three children the day of the event. With Richard’s diagnosis of stage four colon cancer, they were reminded with each passing day how truly fragile life is. That’s when they decided to embrace life and celebrate love with the ceremony their whole family has been dreaming of for 17 years.

If you know Danielle, you know her incredible capability to pull off an amazing vision. As a designer herself, she has exquisite taste and the impeccable skill to bring a vision together. She also has a magnetic energy that draws the most loving, passionate, talented people into her life, and her wedding vendors were no exception. Being a part of the industry, I reached out to my local network to see if anyone was available to help bring her vision to life in such a short amount of time. I was (and still am) overwhelmed by the generosity of this beautiful community I feel so grateful to be a part of. Countless talented and gracious vendors donated their time, services, and products to help Danielle and Richard make this celebration memorable.

I remember walking into the venue the day before the wedding, and Danielle turned to me and said, “Amanda, I always dreamed of this day, but I seriously never thought it would happen. This is what I’ve been dreaming of. This is my vision.” She did not compromise; she (with the help of so many) made this wedding day a perfect reflection of who they were as a couple – a celebration to remember. On March 25th, 2017 I watched that 17-year-old dream come true. I watched a beautiful Bride see her vision come to life. I saw true love and heartfelt speeches about Richard and Danielle’s life together. So many friends and family gathered together to celebrate life in the now, and I will be forever grateful to have been a part of it.

From the Bride… Life can simultaneously be both so captivatingly beautiful and so immensely heartbreaking. Richard and I were very blessed in our lives together; we have three beautiful boys and went on adventures filled with joy and excitement. We also encountered our fair share of trials and tribulations. On September 16, 2016, Richard was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer. After several months of chasing treatment options and grasping for faith, staring face to face with fear and uncertainty, we chose to rise in faith and love.

After 17 years of convincing ourselves that we were perfectly content with being permanently engaged, suddenly nothing felt more right than to cement our love with vows of marriage. It was close to “impossible” – a word we heard too frequently. But our amazing community rose boldly to the challenge. Quite seamlessly, venues, vendors, and friends offered services, time, and energies. The outpouring of the human spirit was overwhelming.

As a designer and wedding planner, I have collaborated on and implemented many nuptials. I have scoured inspirations, layouts, and wordings with a soft heart tug toward styles and textures that appealed to my personal style. I knew in my heart that if I was going to do this, I wanted to execute it in a way that captured us. I did not want a structured ceremony, but rather a celebration of life and love, a reflection of our story, and a heartwarming memory to share with all of those that have supported us along the way.

The day arrived so quickly and unsurprisingly yielded little to no worry. I was quite simply enraptured by the love and generous souls of those that executed this day, constantly spellbound with the largest of emotions. I have so many special memories – the quiet moment in solitude before our first look while staring out into the vast horizon of ocean water; the embrace of my handsome groom as the reality of the day sunk in deeper; the sweet surprise of telling our children that we would be getting married, and they would be our best men; being walked down the aisle together by my unconditionally loving parents; catching sight of my 92-year-old grandfather who was the first love of my life and who has the unfortunate disease of dementia; grasping the hands of my best friend with no intention of every letting go. The love and the emotions that filled the brick walls of the historic Portland Co. was enough to warm even the most bitter early spring Maine day. Words don’t quite seem to capture the essence of what it was and what it will remain forever. My heart is just so full of gratitude to each and every individual who was a piece of it. It was a beautiful blessing amongst the storm, a union of hearts, and a reminder that love conquers all.

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here

Wedding Dresses

BHLDN

Bridal 2016

Bridal 2019

View All Collections

Wedding Dresses

Berta Bridal

F/W 2015 Collection

Spring/Summer 2016 Bridal Collection

View All Collections

Planning the day of your dreams? This is a can’t-miss event.

Listen up, loves. Whatever you have planned for Sunday, February 12th, cancel it… now. Because The Wedding Day Expositions South Shore – Cape and Islands Bridal Show is happening from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm and it’s a day of inspo you just can’t miss. From fabulous vendors to live music to yummy eats, it’s a must for planning your dream wedding. Scroll for all of the deets.

Whether you are knee-deep in planning or have just started your wedding journey, The Wedding Day Expositions South Shore – Cape and Islands Bridal Show is exactly the event you need to throw that celebration of a lifetime. Think a strolling fashion show by La Reine Bridal, cake tastings, live music, a hair and beauty trends showcase (+ free temporary lashes!) and one amazing wedding professional after another all in one gorgeous locale. Not to mention the fab prizes that will be given throughout the showcase, plus your chance to really tour the Pine Hills Pavilion, a venue that gives new meaning to the words warm and rustic. Your going to love it.

Ready to really, truly plan that wedding of your dreams? Then grab your besties + your one true love and make plans to attend The Wedding Day Expositions South Shore – Cape and Islands Bridal Show on February 12th. You’ll love the Pine Hills Pavilion (lunch on premise at the clubhouse is an absolute must) and meeting all of the amazing vendors that will help make those visions a reality. Click here to get your tickets ($10 at the door and $5 online) and head to The Wedding Day Expositions’ Facebook and Instagram for even more inspiration. Have fun!

The Perfect Summer Wedding in Maine

Last spring my family snuck away for a vacation on Maine’s gorgeous coast, and to say we fell in love with that place is a total understatement. I’m constantly scheming return travel plans but until then this York-set wedding is the next best thing. With SHE Luxe Weddings & Design by their side, Viveka and Alex brought their families together for the perfect summer day with a nautical twist. Dive into the images by Christina Bernales and see why we can’t get enough.

Colors

Seasons

Summer Weddings

Settings

Country Club Religious Institution

Styles

Classic Weddings Nautical

From Christina Bernales… As a wedding photographer, one of my favorite parts about weddings is seeing two families come together to celebrate the couple. Viveka and Alex’s wedding was first and foremost a big family affair, with Viveka’s big extended Swedish family joining Alex’s in the celebration.

Their union couldn’t have taken place on a more beautiful Maine summer day. Viveka got ready at her grandparents’ home and their wedding took place at Trinity Church in York, which is a beautiful, stone church, full of character and history. It felt as though we’d been transported to another time in history for a brief moment.

After a riverside champagne toast, Viveka, Alex, and their immediate families took a boat ride along the York river from the church to their wedding reception at the York Golf and Tennis Club where they had an unforgettable celebration.

This is How You Plan Your Dream Wedding

There’s nothing we love more than grabbing our besties and hitting the town for a little bridal show action. And when that show happens to be the Wedding Day Expositions Boston Bridal Show, it’s a happier day than most. Think yummy treats, live music and a cake dive (!!) all happening this Sunday, January 8th. Mark your calendars and get ready to plan that day of your dreams.

The Wedding Day Expositions Boston Bridal Show is everything you’ve ever wanted in a bridal event… and so much more. I’m talking a one-stop shop with all of the areas finest vendors, plus some seriously cool happenings and awesome giveaways, as well. From the live fashion show to the Macy’s VIP entry bags (for the first 50 guests!) to the full bar filled with tasty libations, this is definitely one event you can’t miss. And did I mention the cake dive? I mean, this is going to be sooo awesome.

Whether you’re on the lookout for the perfect photographer, want to find that venue of your dreams or simply want to be inspired, the Wedding Day Expositions Boston Bridal Show is THE place to start planning. Click here NOW to get your tickets ($15 per person at the door or $10 online) and mark those calendars for a Sunday filled with wedding planning fun.

What: The Wedding Day Expositions Boston Bridal Show is giving away matching wedding bands in their fabulous cake dive!

Who: One lucky winner will be chosen completely at random to participate in the cake dive at the upcoming Boston Bridal Show and four other lucky contestants will be chosen live from the audience. All contestants will be cloaked in rain gear and wrestle through a GIANT cake provided by Montilio’s Bakery. Inside is a small box for the victor who will claim the pair of WEDDING BANDS as their PRIZE!

How: To enter to win a spot in Boston’s ONLY cake dive, submit your proposal/engagement photo by tagging @weddingdayexpos on Facebook OR @weddingdayexpositions on Instagram! #justsayyes

A Cozy Christmas Proposal Sure To Inspire…

‘Tis the season for sweet love stories and proposals by sparkly trees. And this shoot captured by Jamie Mercurio is just that and more. Emily Elizabeth Events created this Christmas story before us, and with gingerbread houses, festive wreaths and an emerald ring that makes us gasp, it’s a scene sure to inspire. Get in the holiday spirit in our Vault gallery right this way!

From Emily of Emily Elizabeth Events… The holidays are the most romantic time of year and also one of the most popular for proposals. This gave us the inspiration for a Christmas editorial set at Beech Hill Barn. Coming home from parties galore, our couple settles in at home to relax in front of the fire and eat some takeout food before he pops the question. The scene is cozy and festive and she enjoys some prosecco while he opts for a howler from a local microbrewery. Sweet treats include a gingerbread house, cookies, and Yule Log. The house is trimmed simply and we went for a vintage-modern aesthetic, classic with a twist. A Charlie Brown Christmas tree, wreaths, vintage ornaments, thoughtfully hand-wrapped gifts, and cards from family and friends complete the look and feel. The engagement ring is an estate piece with an emerald, adding some sparkle and shine to a momentous occasion – green against the red lace of her dress. Their French bulldog joins in on the fun and approves the marriage proposal, sealing the deal.

Boho Meets Elegance For This Maine Island Inn Wedding

Once you visit Maine, there’s no going back. Its magic sinks in and you’re in love for life. Hence why these two decided to say “I do” among its natural beauty at the historic and charming Chebeaugue Island Inn. With the ocean in the background and greenery all around, Emily Delamater captured these cuties and the love that overflowed. Get ready to get pinning (these petals!) in our Vault right this way!

Colors

Seasons

Summer Weddings

Settings

Hotels + Resorts Weddings Outdoor Weddings Weddings in Historical Venues

Styles

Al Fresco

From the Bride… Having both vacationed in Maine growing up, Harrison and I knew it would be the perfect place to celebrate the next step in our lives. We looked at a number of venues along the coast, but as soon as we stepped foot on Chebeague Island, we fell in love. The historic Chebeague Island Inn offered stunning views of the Casco Bay, coupled with chic onsite accommodations (for her), a delicious restaurant, and even a 9-hole golf course (for him). It was a place where our guests could escape, stay onsite, and take part in all of the weekend festivities – a vacation for everybody involved. It is also a place we knew our family would continue to visit for many years to come.

There is a distinct vintage, coastal vibe that permeates the property – the 1920s building has great architectural bones and captures the best of Maine’s unassuming charm. I largely drew inspiration for our color palette from the faded florals of the Great Room upholstery – soft, neutral, and feminine – accented by the blues of the ocean water, lush greenery of the landscape, warm yellow of the building’s façade, and shades of turquoise from the colorful porch ceiling. We wanted to highlight the subtle beauty of the island and create a feeling of relaxed elegance mixed with a little bohemian nonchalance – timeless, yet youthful and fun.

Our wedding was a true family affair filled with DIY adventures. With the help of family and friends, my mother collected all of the milk glass from thrift stores up and down the East Coast; Harrison’s parents built our custom corn hole boards and visited salvage yards to hand-select the wood they painted for our signage; and I finally challenged myself to learn calligraphy, something I had long wished to do, so that I could write the invitation envelopes and escort cards. Style Me Pretty was one of my key resources during the planning process, helping me to discover many of the talented vendors with whom we ended up working. Maine also has an incredible network of wedding professionals, and the best piece of advice I have for brides-to-be is this: identify your top priorities for your wedding day and then work with a team you admire and trust to help make that vision come to life.

Our wedding day was without a doubt one of the most relaxing days we have shared as a couple. Everything came together, but more importantly, Harrison and I were together celebrating our love and commitment to one another with the support of our dearest family and friends. We are so thankful for the love that surrounded us that day and cannot wait until our next trip to the island!

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here

Joanna August

Babes of the Nile

Ceremony

View All Collections

Plum Pretty Sugar

Castelbel & Trumpet

Signature

Lilli Tru

PomPon

Plum Pretty Sugar for BHLDN

PPS Couture

View All Collections

Rue De Seine

Young Love

View All Collections

Here’s How to Pull Off An Amazingly Personal Wedding

There’s no denying we’ve seen our share of super sweet and personal celebrations, but it’s no exaggeration when we also say that this one right here, well, it takes the cake. From the handwritten notes for every single guest, to the happy tears that flowed nonstop, this rustic chic wedding – at a summer camp in Maine – is one that we’ll be taking ideas and inspiration from for quite some time. Lucky for us, Janelle Carmela captured it all so our Vault has the goods that keep on giving.

Escape to Summer Camp for the Wedding Weekend!

From the Bride… When we started to think about and plan our wedding (and with a 2+ year engagement, we had lots of time to think about it!), we wanted to make sure our wedding represented not only our relationship and love, but our relationships with all our guests as well, who had provided us with love and support throughout our lives and relationship. And honestly, we just wanted it to be fun for everyone! We envisioned people coming, parking their cars, and having a relaxing, fun weekend! So, where better to have our wedding than at summer camp?! All our guests were invited to stay in the cabins for the whole weekend and use all the camp facilities throughout the weekend – the waterfront, campfire, basketball courts, etc.

Surround Yourself With Meaningful Beauty

Since we were surrounded by nature and so many colors, we wanted the flowers to be bright and locally-grown and the attire to be neutrals. We found a flower farm and designer who was able to plant bulbs based on the colors and types of flowers we wanted. This was particularly important to me because my dad was an avid gardner, and since he has passed away, flowers were one of the ways I wanted to make sure he was included in our big day. We tried to make lots of details and DIY projects polished, with a camp theme. Our welcome bags were care packages in cardboard boxes filled with our favorite snacks, reminiscent of what I remember my mom sending me when I went to overnight camp.

Make the Ceremony Magical + Truly YOU

My favorite part of the day was our ceremony. We had one of our friends officiate the wedding, and wrote the wedding script ourselves. We met at work, so we had our boss at the time do a reading. Then, my dad’s best friend did a gardening reading in his honor and read a letter he wrote from my dad. Not having my dad with me on my wedding day was so hard, but his friend brought him to life through his reading. Then, we had our bridal party tell stories and memories of our relationship over the past seven years. Their short stories ensured our ceremony was full of laughter, and reminded us of how much we’d gone through during our time together. We ended the ceremony with our writing our own vows. It was one of the scariest things I’ve ever done, but both of our personalities came through and just topped off a really personal ceremony that was better than I could have ever imagined!

Share That Special Love With Lots of Little Details

One of my favorite details – we wrote notes to each guest individually, which was waiting for them at their seat at dinner. One of my favorite parts about camp as a kid was getting mail, so we wanted all our guests to get mail too! And we wanted to make sure each guest knew how happy we were to have them there celebrating with us! Seeing people’s faces when they opened and read each card was so special.

Soak It All Up

From Janelle Carmela Photography… As a photographer, I go to hundreds of weddings, but none have left me with chills more than Sara and Tony’s wedding that took place this August at Camp Mataponi in Naples, Maine. Sara and Tony had a goal to make the wedding as personal and sincere as they could and you’ll see that they achieved this with flying colors.

Colors

Seasons

Summer Weddings

Settings

Outdoor Weddings Rustic Weddings

Styles

Al Fresco Rustic

From Janelle Carmela Photography… Between the personal notes that were waiting for each and every guest at their seat (that were beautifully addressed by the amazing calligrapher at Posh and Prep), to the gorgeous flowers that Sara carried down the aisle that were grown by the amazing Carolyn Snell especially for Sara (dahlia’s, which were her father’s favorite), to the arch that Tony’s father built for them to get married under, to the ceremony which included a letter her late father wrote to her and stories from individual bridal party members… The day left us all in tears – myself included! Camp Mataponi was the perfect spot for a wedding. Guests were able to stay right in the bunks and spent the weekend together instead of doing there own thing since there were no sights to see or TV’s to be watched. During the first look, you could see Sara and Tony’s guests floating on rafts in the distance – it was truly a bonding experience for all who attended. Sara and Tony tied camp details into the ceremony itself: between the paddles that guests signed as a guest book, to a late night snack of s’mores, a post wedding camp fire, “Camp Freelovo” (their names combined) flying on the flagpole. I’m delighted to share this very special and touching ceremony with you!

See more: http://janellecarmela.com/sara-tonys-camp-mataponi-wedding-boston-wedding-photographer/

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here

Wedding Dresses

BHLDN

Bridal 2016

Bridal 2019

View All Collections

Happy Thanksgiving + The Coziest Fall Wedding!

Here at SMP, we’ve got a lot (today and every day) to be thankful for. First up? This incredibly romantic garden wedding in Maine. It’s quintessential autumn tones set the scene for celebration, but it’ll be the sweet story below that’ll totally win you over. From their Irish inspired ceremony that took place under the watchful eye of a wayward porcupine (!!) to the undeniably beautiful barn reception, Emily Delamater Photography has got it all waiting for you to favorite via The Vault!

Colors

Seasons

Fall Weddings

Settings

Outdoor Weddings

Styles

Rustic

From the Bride… What happens when two New Hampshire transplants meet on New Year’s Eve in a Boston neighborhood bar, fall in love over common roots and new pursuits, and aspire for a ceremony that captures past, present, and future and pays homage to a shared love for New England? An autumn wedding in Maine.

Bride and groom, Kerry and Derek, chose Hidden Pond in Kennebunkport for their wedding celebration. Surrounded by the foliage of a classic New England forest and yet almost touched by the mist of the Atlantic Ocean, Hidden Pond wraps the rustic in quintessentially understated Maine refinement and seaside splendor. Our fondness for fall and the coast, for simplicity and elegance, made no concessions here.

Neither did Kate Martin and her wonderful staff. She brought together all of the delightfully disparate elements of the wedding portrait we wanted framed: white pumpkins, rich red and salmon colors, illuminated trees, flower arrangements with texture and depth, green vines, mercury glass, white birch, farm tables covered with candles, an overall feeling of “dreaminess.” And exquisitely framed it was, by the lovely photography of Emily Delamater. Emily knows the perfect shot and has a special way of making even the smallest moments sparkle. We could not have achieved our wedding day aspirations without them.

We were married in the gardens of Hidden Pond, on a crisp but bright late October day, over traditional Irish music and under the watch of a wayward porcupine that wandered a bit too close to our ceremony. Bursts of color punctuated the scene as the trees surrounding this lovely little spot were still clinging to their last autumn leaves. From the warm apple cider to the smiling faces of our guests keeping warm under flannel blankets, it was a moment we won’t forget.

The cocktail hour was held in the Hidden Pond Barn under a canopy of twinkle lights that glittered almost as much as the bridesmaid dresses. The cocktail hour featured some of Maine’s finest offerings, prepared by one of Maine’s finest restaurants, Hidden Pond’s Earth: mini- lobster rolls, grilled cheeses with heirloom tomatoes, and some good local beer – Bissell Brother’s Substance and Maine Beer Company’s Mo. A dinner of lobster gnocchi and slow- roasted lamb followed, lit by table candles and grapevine chandeliers created by Kate’s team at Beautiful Days.

The reception featured one of New Hampshire’s most celebrated and movable wedding traditions (brought to us by Derek’s college buddies): the University of New Hampshire “dance rug,” on which nearly every wedding guest, young and old, must step and perform some action approximating a dance move before they are acquitted for the evening. The dance party that followed was sustained by everyone’s fall favorite, apple cider donuts, freshly baked by Earth, and Maine blueberry wedding cake, prepared locally by Gayle Forte at Let Them Eat Cake.

It was important that the day felt personal to us. We wanted in some modest way to capture ourselves, where we came from, where we found each other, and where we hope we’re heading.

Our wedding celebration ended up capturing us, expressing the pure joy of our love for one another and for our guests so effortlessly that the only thing we could do and wanted to do was get on the dance rug and enjoy each and every minute of it.

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here

Monique Lhuillier

Monique Lhuillier Bridal Fall 2015

Monique Lhuillier Bridesmaids Fall 2015

Spring 2016

View All Collections

Early Morning Bar Harbor Engagement Session

It’s no secret that Bar Harbor holds a seriously special place in my heart (it is after all where my husband proposed), so in all honestly this engagement session is primed to be my new favorite. Combining a love for nature with the lens of The Ganeys, it’s serene meets seriously sweet and we’ve got every bit of the beauty waiting for you in The Vault!

From the Bride…We love the outdoors, and we so appreciate the natural beauty of our national parks that we wanted to do our engagement shoot in one of them. Since we only had a couple days to get away and we’d never been before, we chose Acadia because of it’s proximity to Washington, DC, where we live. We wanted to celebrate Acadia’s unique charm of being the first place the sunlight hits the continental U. S., so we did our photo shoot in the morning after watching the sunrise on Cadillac Mountain. We were not disappointed!! We loved getting to capture our special moments in such a gorgeous place where we felt at home in the outdoors, and Emily and Thomas made the entire engagement session not only easy, but fun! We feel like we went on a mini-vacation with old friends and now have beautiful pictures to share!

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here

Wedding Dresses

Ann Taylor

Fall 2014 Weddings Collection

View All Collections

12 Fabulous Ways to Thank Your Bridesmaids

Your bridesmaids? They’ve been with you through thick and thin. The dress fittings, the cake tastings, the 5 am meltdowns over color choices (it’s okay, we’ve all been there)… there’s a reason you call them your best friends. Which is why we’ve asked our faves at Long’s Jewelers to help you say “thank you” for everything in the best way possible. Think 12 awesome wedding day gifts that are perfect for showing that bestie gratitude. Scroll below for every pretty pick.

Bridesmaids Gifts from Long's Jewelers

View Slideshow

Bridesmaids Gifts from Long's Jewelers

View Slideshow

[dotted]

Ready to get your gift giving on? Visit one of Long’s Jewelers four locations in Massachusetts or their newest location (now open!) in sales tax free Nashua, NH! Their amazing staff will use their years of experience (they’ve been open since 1878, y’all) to help you find those bridesmaids gifts that will really, really wow. We promise.

Classic Maine Wedding with a Glam Twist

Coastal Maine is high on my list of favorite places in the world, and this sweet couple felt the same. They rounded up their nearest and dearest for a dreamy seaside wedding with an unexpected touch of glamour, dressing bridesmaids in sparkly metallic shades to set the tone. Emily Delamater captured all the fun now at your fingertips in The Vault.

Colors

Seasons

Summer Weddings

Settings

Luxury Venue Outdoor Weddings

Styles

Al Fresco

From the Bride…We truly wanted a wedding for people to remember. From the unbelievable venue, to the band, food and decor. Picking the right vendors and people to help us was key, and made everything easy! People left saying it was the best wedding they had ever attended. We really focused on the “big white wedding” color scheme, we wanted to have a plush, luxurious feel with pops of navy and metallic champagne golds.

What was really important to us, was the immediate “wow” our guests would have when walking into the tent. We wanted to make a statement with swaging, drapery and beautiful lighting to accentuate the incredible coastline view of Maine outside the tent.

Our favorite moments were the last few hours of dancing, there have been so many weddings we have been to where there is only a few people on the dance floor. We had 100% participation of the entire wedding, moving and grooving on the dance floor having a great time!

The flowers were a large part of the elegant feeling we wanted for the tent, from the little roses tucked into napkins on the place setting, to the large lush center pieces on each round table…our flowers were incredible. Plus, our bouquets were stunning, we had little pops of blue with the anemone flower, clustered with roses and mini calla lilies. Our ceremony was held overlooking the water at 3 pm and knew that we could have some reflection off the water so we gave all of our guests some fun sunglasses favors, with our colors (navy and white), with the quote of the side saying “don’t be blinded by our love” with out names and wedding date. They were a hit and people wore them all day and night, and I am still getting pictures of people using them in their everyday lives. My gown was one of the easiest parts of the wedding. I wanted something a little sexy, but elegant and comfortable. I feel as though I am a little sassy, so the slit was perfect for that, as well as the comfort…it allowed me to move and even keep me a bit cooler on that hot Fourth of July weekend day.

I would tell any bride-to-be to start planning early. If you have the time, use it…because most people (so I have heard) are stressed the week before their wedding, even into the day of their wedding. I had none of that, I enjoyed every minute because I made sure to space out every single piece of planning, and I could not have done it alone. My partner through the whole process was Heidi from SHE Luxe Weddings was so on top of everything, so the schedule we made together kept us on track and stress free.

Bridal Beauty 101: Finding That Perfect Style for Your Gown

You’ve found that dress of your dreams and now it’s time to focus on putting the entire look together with hair and makeup. Need help? Well, we’ve got you covered, because today we’re joining forces with Jennie Kay for a quick run-down on all things beauty with tips + tricks on achieving that glam wedding day look, no matter the gown or style you’re dreaming of. Let’s get started.

LOOK 1: CASUAL GLAMOUR

Your style? Laid-back with a big ol’ side of sophistication. Which means rocking a stunning gown that shows some skin and hair + make-up that is just as sleek and glamorous. Jennie Kay suggests pairing your dream dress with a rope braid pony or soft low bun that is dressy enough for a wedding, but is also completely effortless.

[dotted]

LOOK 2: VINTAGE ELEGANCE

You’re a vintage-inspired lady looking to rock that elegant lace number, but still maintain a modern, yet sexy edge. Jennie Kay’s tip? A bright red lip for that much-needed side of sophistication and a stunning updo that frames one side of the face, plus sweeps across the back in a beautiful style that is reminiscent of the past.

[dotted]

“Look at the way you wore your hair at your initial dress fitting. It usually mimics your initial idea on how your hair should be.” – Jennie Kay Beauty

[dotted]

LOOK 3: BOHO BEAUTY

Crave a look that is soft, romantic and free, just like you and your wedding? Then this fab boho look from Jennie Kay Beauty is sooo for you. Simply keep your hair natural in wave and texture and add three gorgeous braids for a little pop of WOW. Want to add a little glamour to the look? Really make those eyes stand out with just the right shade of shadow and mascara.

[dotted]

LOOK 4: SWEETLY CLASSIC

For those of you who want to keep it sweet + classic on the Big Day, Jennie Kay suggests a low twisted ponytail that is equal parts show-stopping and wholesome. Pair it with subtle makeup (like a light pink lip) and a gown that has just a pop of sass and the results are absolutely timeless.

[dotted]

LOOK 5: TOUSLED SOPHISTICATION

Waves are a girl’s best friend and when it comes to a wedding day look that is equal parts laid-back and sophisticated, Jennie Kay keeps those tousled waves down with just a few sweet strands pulled back for a look that is all sorts of romantic. Add some soft pink lips and some barely-there makeup to complete the look.

[dotted]

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/167191983 600 338]

Contact Jennie Kay Beauty to create a seamless, stunning look from head to toe… you won’t regret it.

Wedding Jewelry 101: Perfectly Matched Rings for the New England Bride

Calling all fabulous New England brides – this one’s for you. Because today we’re teaming up with one of our fave jewelry stores, Long’s Jewelers, to break down that age old question: which wedding band + ring combo should I choose? From classic solitaires to eternity bands to yellow gold beauties, we’ve got your answers. Scroll below to find the one perfect for you and yours.

The Classic Pairing

New England brides are known for their classic meets rustic chic style; we all know that. And when it comes to wedding jewelry, there’s nothing that falls within that category more than a single solitaire engagement ring paired with a breathtaking eternity band. Perfect for the bride who dreams of a Grace Kelly-esque wedding (read: all of us), it’s a look that will never go out of style. Sooo incredibly timeless.

Featured: Four Prong Diamond Solitaire (LMT2591) and Diamond Eternity Band (DETP1663)

Modern Yellow Gold Pairing

If you thought that yellow gold was reserved for your mother, grandma or friend who said “I do” in the 80’s, think again, loves… yellow gold is back with a seriously stunning vengeance. We promise. Long’s Jewelers suggests pairing this sweet metal with a modern halo and then adding a unique (+ drop-dead gorgeous) infinity swirl band for a perfectly awesome update to the traditional. We are so on board with that.

Featured: Diamond Halo Engagement Ring in Yellow Gold (LDM7293) and Diamond Infinity Swirl Band (LDB1877)

The “Boston” Ring

Fun fact of the day? The classic three-stone ring was created in the great, great city of Boston (we’re sort of partial), which makes it THE quintessential engagement ring for all of New England. Even better? This awesome setting allows you to mix and match with stones… use your mother’s, your grandmother’s, your mother-in-law’s… or your own. And when it comes to pairing this Beantown Beauty with a wedding band, Long’s Jewelers suggest a bead set diamond eternity band for an amazing look.

Featured: Three Stone Diamond Engagement Ring (FRTH0170) and Bead Set Diamond Eternity Band (LDB1665)

[dotted]

A Feminine Touch

We love, love, love a rose gold setting, especially one that has been paired with a white gold metal. It’s a mix and match we’re totally on board with and when it comes to romance, well… it doesn’t get any better. Try one of Long’s Jewelers awesome halo engagement rings with a stunning oval diamond (sooo pretty) and adding a rose gold halfway diamond band. The results are flawless.

Featured: Oval Diamond Halo Engagement Ring (LDMS0066) and Halfway Diamond Band in Rose Gold (LDB3157)

Vintage Details

Speaking of romance, Long’s Jewelers‘ lineup of drop-dead gorgeous vintage-inspired pieces basically owns the term. From halo engagement rings with intricate detailing to bezel set diamond eternity bands, finding that perfect pairing that evokes the beauty of yesterday is as simple as saying “YES!” to the one you love. And also soooo unique… and awesome.

Featured: Vintage Inspired Diamond Halo Engagement Ring (LDM7321) and Bezel Set Diamond Eternity Band (LDB1858)

[dotted]

Can’t wait to find that perfect pairing for your bridal jewelry? Contact Long’s Jewelers TODAY or stop by one of their four locations throughout Massachusetts or their new location opening this fall in Nashua, NH. Their years upon years of experience (seriously… they’ve been open since 1878) and talented staff (family owned and operated) will help you locate that wedding band + engagement ring of your dreams.

[dotted]

A Special Offer!

Use this coupon for 10% off your wedding band purchase.

Photography: Newbury Photographs | Jewelry: Longs Jewelers

The Perfect Way to Add a Touch of Vintage Glam to Your Wedding Day

Adding a little touch of vintage glamour to your wedding day is always a good idea, but adding it in the form of some serious bling? Even better. So today we’re teaming up with our friends over at Long’s Jewelers to bring you a list of stunning vintage gems that will definitely bring a little something extra special to your Big Day. Scroll below to fall in love with every last one.

Vintage Glamour with Long's Jewelers

View Slideshow

Vintage Glamour with Long's Jewelers

View Slideshow

[dotted]

With four locations throughout Massachusetts and one more opening in Nashua, NH later this fall, plus years upon years of experience (they’ve been in business since 1878, y’all), Long’s Jewelers is your go-to for all things vintage with a never-ending list of gorgeous finds. From dazzling earrings to stunning necklaces to fab rings that really make a statement, their experienced staff of jewelry experts (they are family owned and operated) will make sure you shine on your Big Day. Visit one of their awesome locations NOW to find that special something.

[dotted]

A Special Offer!

Use the code STYLEMEPRETTY online for 20% off estate jewelry. (Offer expires December 31, 2016.)

[dotted]

You’ll Love the Story Behind This Whimsical Barn Wedding

If there’s anyone who knows how to throw a unique wedding with loads of heart, it’s this couple. Along with their planner, A Family Affair of Maine, they incorporated so many meaningful details including a log cutting ceremony to celebrate their German descent and protea blooms as a nod to his South African birthplace. The incredible White Loft Studio came along to photograph and her captures are all waiting in The Vault.

From the Bride and Groom…We met in the fall of 2010 as undergraduates at Bowdoin College. Though it’s a small school and we’d been there at the same time for a full year, we didn’t meet until the start of the second year, when we happened to be in two classes together. As our officiant (the professor of one of those classes) noted during our wedding ceremony, we began that semester sitting on opposite sides of the classroom, but it wasn’t long before we were sitting next to each other.

The college we attended has a beautiful art museum with dramatic front steps, and it was a particularly mild fall. Rory emailed me to ask if I wanted to sit on the steps with him at dusk and eat kiwis. It was somewhat unusual but exceptionally sweet—a phrase I think describes us as a pair. We sat together for a long time, talking and watching the sun go down. I think the kiwis went forgotten.

The proposal all happened very organically. We knew early on that it was ‘the real deal’ and never felt uncomfortable discussing a future together, even before we were officially engaged. We designed rings for each other with the help of a Maine jeweler and carried them around for a while until the time was right.

In 2013, we made the difficult decision to spend two years an ocean apart so that Rory could study history in England and I could study writing in Iowa. We decided it was time to make our commitment to each other, so once we’d moved into an apartment in Iowa City, Iowa, we woke up early one morning and walked to a nearby park to propose. We sat in the grass under an oak tree and each described why we wanted to marry the other, and presented each other with rings. Afterwards, we had brunch at our favorite Iowa City diner.

Every couple is special in its own way, but one thing that we’re always surprised by is how unlikely it was that we had the chance to meet. Rory grew up in Johannesburg, South Africa, and Katie was raised in various locations across the Midwestern and northeastern U.S. Rory is also a few years older, so had he not decided to spend a full year studying abroad during college, we wouldn’t have overlapped in college at all. Additionally, we’re very different. We think all the time about how lucky we are to have crossed paths.

We wanted to include some South African elements in our wedding to celebrate Rory’s background, so I asked the florist to include a few protea, the national flower of South Africa, in my bouquet and in the décor. We also offered our guests iced South African rooibos tea before the ceremony, and used small South African animal figurines, which our wedding planner spray-painted gold, as place-card holders.

One of the craziest and most fun parts of our wedding was the log-cutting ceremony. Rory and I are both of German descent, so we researched German wedding traditions and discovered a ceremony in which the bride’s father and brothers fell a tree and the newly married couple saws through it together as their first obstacle in marriage. Rory and his dad cut down the tree together the day before the wedding, and my dad, brother, and cousins carried the log into the ceremony venue. The guests seemed to really enjoy the spectacle of the log cutting, and it was one of the most memorable moments from the day.

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/146851953 600 338]

[dotted]

See How This Nautical Celebration Paints a Pretty Picture (Literally)

Considering the fact that I live in New England, it’s no shocker that nautical weddings are my jam, and this celebration from Emily Delamater? It’s all kinds of amazing. From the majorly monumental portrait crafted by Serena Martin Design, to the stunning scenery, we’ve got all that and more waiting for you in The Vault!

Colors

Seasons

Summer Weddings

Settings

Beach Weddings

Styles

Classic Weddings

From Serena Martin Design… The quiet and charming town of Kennebunkport, Maine was the perfect backdrop for the romantic nuptials of these two college sweethearts.

Julia and Braden created an effortlessly chic September wedding and fabulous party. Julia wore an elegant lace dress by Ramona Keveza reminiscent of Grace Kelly circa Cannes 1955. Julia possesses an elegance that does not cry out to be noticed, but rather radiates through her subtlety, which in our days of selfie culture, is a nice breath of fresh air.

In keeping with her personal style, Julia created an elegant, romantic evening with a touch of classic New England charm. She kept her colors clean and simple, opting for blushes, pale pinks and a touch of navy throughout, letting her florals and decor complement the natural beauty of the seaside setting.

An Event Designer Planned Her Own Wedding + It’s Fall Perfection

While there’s no doubting the talent of this Bride (she’s a designer at Rafanelli Events after all), one look through Ivy & Ellis Photography pics and you’ll be wishing you could call her your friend as well as your wedding industry insider. From start to finish, her big day radiates warmth and love; add in Winston Flowers talent, and it’s a fall fantasy brought to life. See all the autumn beauty in our Vault right this way!

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/147147221 600 338]

Colors

Seasons

Fall Weddings

Settings

Outdoor Weddings Rustic Weddings

Styles

Al Fresco Rustic

From Ivy & Ellis Photography… Sometimes the entire wedding day can go by like a dream of a feast, with course after course besting the last, until all you are left with is laughter, mirth and wide-eyed joy. This was the experience of Courtney and Michael’s wedding day, where gaiety and autumn swagger paired up to provide that perfect blend of masculine and feminine, lush and autumnal, and continual harmony – all of which the best weddings seem to have. Here tucked in the dense forestry just miles below Portland, Maine, is the Hidden Pond Luxury Resort, where this magical wedding unraveled amongst a tightly knit gathering of Courtney and Michael’s closest family and friends.

With such adornments as vintage Czech crystal Schreiner earrings by M.Flynn and a truly stunning Anne Barge gown, Courtney looked the epitome of bridal elegance on her wedding day. Michael could hardly contain his pride and joy upon seeing her for a first look in the beautiful garden courtyard at Hidden Pond Resort. Dressed in classic Joseph Abboud attire, Michael was suave and poised going into the ceremony, ready to exchange vows with the love of his life.

The ceremony proved to be stunning itself as it was decorated by the Creative Director of the much-loved classic Boston florist, Winston Flowers. Courtney, who works as an Event Designer herself at the renowned Rafanelli Events, contributed to the elegant event design and decor for both ceremony and reception.

All in all, it was a magical wedding day experience that was unique in it’s warmth, elegance and beauty.

Peruse more magical Maine weddings here!

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here

Anne Barge

Spring 2012

Fall 2012

Spring 2014

Fall 2013

Fall 2014 Couture

Fall 2014 Black Label

View All Collections

Dove Gray + Soft White Wedding Inspiration

Let’s escape the dullness of Monday and head to Maine, where we have a scene set before us that’s sure to make us forget all the tedious tasks we should be doing instead. Always Your Events transformed Hardy Farm into a romantic oasis, Amanda Day Rose Paperie invited us in, and 1956 Blooms made our floral wishes come true; it’s pretty much wedding inspiration nirvana and thanks to Megan Braemore’s pics, we don’t have to let this beauty go anytime soon. Join me in our Vault for more…

From Always Yours Events… The gorgeous venue was Hardy Farm and Inn, a restored barn with gray-washed walls, crystal chandeliers, two grand center staircases, white sliding wood doors and reclaimed wood floors, and it worked impeccably with this wedding design. The color palette and scope of this design was inspired by the juxtaposition of soft sheepskin texture and clear lucite, combining soft and feminine fabrics with angular and firmer elements. The color palette incorporated multiple shades of gray, a soft blue-gray, soft white and matte gold.

Details included lucite “ghost” chairs topped with sheepskin throws, gray tapered candles, matte gold straight edged Arezzo flatware, matte gold candlesticks, lucite menu cards and escort cards with etched calligraphy, Belgian gray linen napkins, a plethora of long dyed silk ribbons in various shades of gray and soft white, and stunning flowy and organic wide bouquets and centerpieces incorporating white peonies and Icelandic poppies tied with strands of dyed silk ribbons. And of course Tori’s statement gown. This stunning Watters gown invoked the qualities of lucite with the illusion neckline, bodice and back, while still featuring an ethereal skirt made from layers and layers of soft ivory tulle and chiffon.
[dotted]