This day could give Will and Kate’s wedding a major run for its money. It’s that incredibly special. But once you get to know this London affair a wee bit little better, it really comes at no surprise. Because when a Brides UK editor ties the knot with Polly Alexandre on board, mass amounts of pretty are naturally bound to follow. Mark my words, SMPers, we’ll be obsessing over this one for a good, loooooong while.

From Polly Alexandre… I was hugely flattered when Polly, who was Lifestyle Editor at Conde Nast’s Brides Magazine, asked me to photograph her wedding to Rhys. Polly & Rhys met through a mutual friend 6 years ago and they managed to create a successful long term relationship whilst Rhys was working abroad. Born and brought up in London, it was a city wedding Polly decided upon, with the magnificent Royal Hospital Chapel in Chelsea as the location for the ceremony – particularly apt as it is a military chapel and Rhys used to be in the army himself. Polly combined blush pink with white and grey accents for a feminine but grown up look. She wanted the overall look to be polished and elegant & appropriate for a city wedding. Working with some of her favourite suppliers, she created a wedding that was stylish and classic, polished, so very English, and well, just overall incredibly elegant.

The ceremony was held at the Royal Hospital Chapel, chosen because Rhys used to be in the army and liked the idea of getting married in a military chapel. Afterwards champagne was served in vintage style saucer glasses, before red London buses whisked away the wedding guests to the super elegant Hempel Hotel. The hotel exudes a minimalist zen like calm with a lovely garden. In this garden the couple had a beautiful marquee with oversized florals. David Austin roses and stocks were used to make an impact in this big space. Then after some heartwarming speeches it was off down into the ‘nightclub’ area downstairs in the hotel for dancing late into the night.

Upon marrying, this globe trotting couple emigrated to Dubai to start a new life together. Polly & Rhys are a perfect match, an absolute pleasure to work with, and I wish them many years of happiness and love together….

Photographer: Polly Alexandre Photography | Cake: Peggy Porschen | Ceremony Venue: Royal Hospital Chelsea | Reception Venue: The Hempel Hotel | Brides Shoes: Valentino | Bridesmaids Dresses: Ghost | Calligraphy: Paul Antonio Scribe | DJ: Matt Maurice | Bridal Bouquets: Jamie Aston | Bride's Evening Dress: Luella's Boudoir | Brides' Dress: Amanda Wakeley | Brides' Veil: Amanda Wakeley | Flowergirl's Dress: Marie Chantal | Groom's Bespoke Suit: Hackett | Hair & Make Up: Sarah Brock, Award Winning Makeup Artist | Pageboys Outfits: Stella McCartney at Alex & Alexa | Photo Booth: Booth Nation | Reception Flowers: By Appointment Only Design | Super 8 Filming: Amabel Adcock

Yes, we celebrated all things fall yesterday, but I just couldn’t help but keep that party going when I came across this pretty soiree from Caitlinn Mahar-Daniels. And when I say pretty, I mean gorgeous. Blush dress, gorgeous. Autumn styling taken to an whole new level, gorgeous. Oh my goodness is this real life, gorgeous. It will make you want to hold onto the autumn months for just a tad bit longer, and you can do just that right here.

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From the Groom…​On April 8th, 2012 I asked Leanne to marry me. She thought we were heading to an Easter brunch with my family. What she didn’t know was that my family and hers were waiting at a local movie theater for us to arrive where she’d watch a movie trailer that she would eventually realize was a story about us, ending in a proposal. When we arrived our families were hiding in the back of the theater. We sat down together and the trailer began. Leanne was commenting on how she wanted to see the movie and didn’t realize it was about us until the final scene where she was surprised to see herself on the movie screen. She began to ask me “Stu, what is this?” and repeated it as she began to cry. Trying to hold back tears of my own, I got on my knee and asked her to marry me. She said yes, and as a final surprise her family came out and everyone applauded. It was the best day of my life.

From Caitlinn Mahar-Daniels…Stu is very clearly absolutely crazy madly in love with Leanne, and the best part is – she is about him as well. Not only are these two absolutely beautiful physically, but they may be even more beautiful human beings. The love, respect, consideration, and admiration they have for one another is for the history books.
Leanne’s dress by Watters was a show stopper. An champagne, pinkish, tan. To say I loved it would be an understatement.

There wedding day was a gorgeous October day – with temperatures in the 80’s! They fully embraced and accomplished an elegant fall wedding. Overflowing with King Crown Blue Pumpkins (like something out of a fairy tale) being the center focus of their centerpieces. Anemone’s being the star of the floral design, and lanterns decorating the backs of the ceremony chairs. The gold, tan, green, and brown color scheme was so elegant, SO beautiful, and SO unexpected for fall – and worked beyond my wildest dreams as their photographer.

The photographs speak for themselves when it comes to the ceremony. THE SKY! Oh my goodness…that sky. The sun was setting and the clouds were epic – it looked unreal and I am still in awe of it when I think back to the moment and view the photographs.

Photographer: Caitlinn Mahar-Daniels | Flowers: Ila Carnes | Dress: Watters | Cake: The Pastry Garden | Make Up: Sephora | Hair: Kayla Wisseman of Marion Salon & Spa | Hair: Christina Gatto of Caru | DJ: Scratch | Suit: Men's Wearhouse | Venue: Dutchess Manor | Bridemaids Dress Shop: My White Wedding | Ceremony and Reception: Dutchess Manor | Chamber Music (Ceremony Strings): Hudson Pro Musica | Dress Shop: Lovely Bridal Shop | Kings Crown Blue Pumpkins: Hahn Farm | Photography Location: Boscobel

Fairytales and romantic novels?  They have nothing on this darling duo’s big day. Because Cinderella and Snow White may have found their Prince Charmings, but these two sweeties found each other AND a drop-dead gorgeous wedding.  Think beautiful blooms from Just For You Floral Design Studio, a mesmerizing Marco Beach Ocean Resort setting and one seriously stunning moment after another captured by Binaryflips Photography.  See them all right here in the full gallery.

After a two year soul searching adventure that took me not only cross country, but around the world – it was time to return home (somewhat begrudgingly, I admit) to Ohio. Before I gave in and headed back to my hometown, I spent every last dime of the savings I had accrued backpacking through the mountains and glaciers of the stunning-but-desolate country of Iceland. Needless to say, once the trek led me back to my childhood bedroom, I needed to get a job! An old friend helped me land a prestigious engagement as bartender at a historic mansion (previously a speakeasy and a noted ganster hang-out) turned five-star steak house.

It was my first night training and I should have been paying close attention, as I didn’t know the difference between a Mint Julep and a Sidecar, but something else had caught my eye and held my interest. He looked like Clark Kent and he dressed like Jay Gatsby. As he popped a bottle of champagne, laughing jovially, he was full of life – and I, was captivated. Across the high top table sat a beautiful, petite brunette who wore a ponytail, sundress and a noticeably sparkling wedding ring. “Lucky woman,” I thought wistfully. A refreshing thought crossed my mind, “I want to meet a man just like that.”

As fate would have it, I met a man JUST like that. Later the same evening the handsome stranger returned with a friend in tow. This time he took a seat where I couldn’t miss him, at the bar behind which I was working. He ordered a Kettle One martini with bleu cheese olives, but I was so distracted I served him something along the lines of a tequila and tonic (Ew, right?!) but alas, I heard no complaints. After a bit of small talk I believed he was simply playing the role of “wingman” to his cute-but-quiet friend. When he, not the friend, asked for my phone number I finally had to say something. “I’m sorry, but weren’t you just here…with your wife?!” I protested confidently. He replied coolly, with a smirk that seemed to say ‘so you noticed me too, eh?’, “Well, you mean my date for dinner?”… “That, was my mother.”

Blushing, but delighted and quite relieved, I scribbled my name and number on a cocktail napkin…and the rest is history.

He recounts falling in love with my sense of adventure and love of travel. I vividly remember being drawn in by his authenticity and open-mind. We found that we were both captivated by the glamour and rebellion of past eras, especially that of the early 1900’s (which inspired his purchase of my antique 1920’s engagement ring). We also learned that we both had led charmed lives – raised on Midwest farms each with two siblings and adoring, hardworking parents, only ten miles from one another. This love of the luxurious, yet down-to-earth appreciation for life was what ultimately bewitched us both. Three days after we met he told me he was falling in love with me and within the year he asked me to be his wife.

After a four month engagement, we said “I do” in a rooftop garden on Marco Island, with waves of the Gulf crashing behind us. Our intimate celebration included only our immediate family and our bridal party. We kicked our shoes off for photos on the beach, ate dinner on the terrace overlooking the water as the sun set before us, and danced the night away in the lounge surrounded by our best friends and our beloved family. It was the perfect pairing of vintage glamour and relaxed charm from the dripping chandeliers to the weathered lanterns.

In the words of Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca (well, sort of!)…

“Of all the steak joints, in all the towns, in all the world… He walked into mine.” Wilhelm still has the napkin with my phone number jotted in blue ink. He keeps it in the nightstand on his side of the bed.

Photography: BINARYFLIPS PHOTOGRAPHY | Flowers: Just For You Floral Design Studio | Cake: Ella's Cakes | Catering: Sale e Pepe | Makeup: Erin Frame | Hair: Katie Zunick | Beach Resort: Marco Beach Ocean Resort | Music: The Sekond Nature Band

Any time a couple is described as “fun , fun and more fun,” you know you’re in for a good wedding. But this Maui beaut designed by White Orchid Wedding is all that plus MORE. A sort of boho glam meets island elegance, it breaks all the “rules” in the best of ways. We’re viewing the day from Tamiz Photography‘s lens and there’s soooo much more waiting right here.

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From White Orchid Wedding… Kate and Tory are epitomized by the word FUN – fun, fun, and more fun. They decided to have a destination wedding because they wanted to have a more intimate affair with their closest friends and family and thought it was a fantastic excuse for everyone to take a holiday together.

The couple envisioned Relaxed Bohemian Chic wedding at the beautiful Historic Olowalu Plantation House and the artists who are Tamiz Photography captured their fun group and the wonderful celebration.

Teresa Sena’s floral design incorporated dusty pinks, grays, lilac, creamy whites and grey/greens. Weathered wooden runners graced the centers of the long grand dining tables covered in ivory linens and bamboo folding chairs completed the look.

Photography: Tamiz Photography | Floral Design: Teresa Sena Designs | Hair + Makeup: Jessica Waite Makeup Artistry | DJ: DJ Del Sol | Officiant: Laki Pomaikai Kaahumanu | Venue: Olowalu Plantation House | Bar: Bars Are Us | Catering + Menus: Cafe O'Lei | Event Design + Coordination: A White Orchid Wedding Inc. | Rentals: Pacific Isle Rentals

Orange pumpkins are the poster child for Halloween festivities but their pastel counterparts are such a beautiful addition to an October wedding. This simple decoration takes the feel of Fall and adds a festive layer without being too kitschy. And how could you possibly not love a pretty monogrammed pumpkin? This wedding designed by Touch of Style with pastel florals by Adornments and pretty, pretty images by Sylvie Gil  is out to prove that an October affair just might be the loveliest of all. Have a look here for more.

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From Touch of Style…. Alexandra and Blake got married last fall on the beautiful central coast, CA. Their ceremony was at the Mission San Luis Obispo De Tolosa. Delicate bouquets of hydrangeas adorned with silk ribbon were tied to the ends of every other pew lining the aisle. The palette of blush, pink, champagne and platinum was seen throughout in florals and accents. Two exquisite column bouquets were placed at the alter where their vows took place. From the bridesmaid’s blush colored dresses to the groomsmen grey suits, the colors were subtle, but made a dramatic statement. Blake was in awe of his beautiful bride as she was escorted down the aisle by her father.

After the ceremony, the guests were transported over the hill by shuttles to the Historic Santa Margarita Ranch for the cocktail reception, dinner and dancing. The design was “rustic elegance”. Since the backdrop was a rustic ranch & barn, we definitely wanted to use the elements that come along with it. Barrels, planks, wood structures, hay bales etc. It went beautifully with the elegant linens, chic decor and gorgeous flower arrangements. One of the most unique and fun elements used, was the Heirloom & Cinderella pumpkins! As guests entered the historic barn, the wagon out front was filled with pumpkins coordinating with the décor and adding a hint of Fall. In between the pumpkins were tall hurricane candles which lined the pathway to the barn doors. On the doors of the barn hung their initials “A” & “B” covered in flowers. The round guests tables were covered in natural linens with Tuscany natural napkins tied with a blush silk ribbon and a white delphinium blossom was placed on top of each place setting. All of the tables were set perfectly with clear glass beaded chargers, white china and vintage inspired flatware. The centerpieces were a mixture of mercury glass vases with blush, pale pink and light cream colored flowers. The impressive 48’ head table was the focus of the room. The table was draped with a blush colored linen with a natural linen overlay swaged and pinned up. Three crystal chandeliers were hung above the length of the table. Blush and cream ribbons were strung in between giving a whimsical feel. Seven wrought iron chandeliers, that hang in the barn, were adorned with bouquets of flowers and foliage and tied with silk ribbons hanging down. A 13 piece band played as guests enjoyed the family style dining and company of their friends and family. After dinner the dessert table was open. The rustic wood table was filled with sugary delights. The cake and desserts were placed on milk glass platters with silk ribbon and blush spray roses to make a sweet presentation. Hay bales with half wine barrels were set up along the wall for guests to sit and relax. The bales were covered in a natural swiss dot fabric and tied with leather.

Handmade pillows lined the wall to make the bales more comfortable. Small arrangements and votives were placed on the tables to give an inviting feel. The band played into the night while guests enjoyed the amazing night!

Photography: Sylvie Gil Photography | Planner: Touch of Style, Event Coordinating & Design | Flowers: ADORNMENTS flowers + finery | Wedding Dress: JLM Couture, Inc | Bride's Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Jewelry: Nordstrom | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Catering: Trumpet Vine Catering | Make up: The Queens Bees | Hair: Avalon Salon | Band: David Martin House Party | Groom's Attire: Rossini's Mens Wear | Vintage Car: Classy Chassis | Bridal Party Transportation: Stardust Cruises | Cake/Dessert: Cake Cathedral | Ceremony Site: Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa | Guest Transportation: American Star Trailways | Pumpkins: Chesebrough Farms | Reception Site: Santa Margarita Ranch | Rentals: Classic Party Rentals | Wood Table Rentals: All About Events

Before you break out the Miley Costume and hit the town, we thought we’d send you off with a little dose of Halloween fun with this adorable joint Halloween Birthday Party that photographer Katie Parra held for herself and her lucky husband. The best part? It’s a festive, fun, spirited shin-dig that definitely doesn’t take itself too seriously. Click here to see the whole shebang!

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From Katie Parra…Halloween happens to fall smack dab in the middle between my birthday and my husband’s birthday. This year we are both turning thirty so if there was ever a year to throw a Halloween party, this was it! We were so excited when friends and family from out of state said they would be attending so we decided to go all out.

We chose costumes that reflected our favorite childhood characters. Mine being Mary Poppins and my husband was the Ninja Turtle Michelangelo (which by the way he gets the husband of the year award for letting me take his picture while wearing his costume and giving it to you to share with the world!) Our fur baby Charlie also dressed up for the occasion wearing one of his Halloween themed bandanas. My mother and mother-in-law both dressed up as “witches-in-law which was so funny and so adorable. Both were a huge help at the party, thank you mamas!! My favorite costume of the night though had to be my friend Anne who was a bright pink Luffa!

I only made our guests play one game….the best kind of game really….a doughnut eating contest!! It was, for lack of a better word, hilarious, and a nice alternative to dunking your face in water to bob for an apple. Besides I’d choose a doughnut over an apple any day!

I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my thirtieth birthday than surrounded by close friends and family dancing the night away! It will be one for the history books that’s for sure. Here’s to the next thirty years, with my Ninja Turtle man by my side!

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Photography: Katie Parra | Halloween Dog Bandana: The Local Hound | Mary Poppins Parrot Umbrella: The Disney Store | Wine Bottle Decorations, Mice Silhouettes, Paper Bats, Mirror Bats: Martha Stewart | Red Vintage Bow Tie: Great White Vintage | Berry Wreath: Country Prim | Halloween Rosettes: Cotton Candy Lane | Pom decorations: Pom Love | Cake and Cupcakes: Celebrity Cake Studio for Metropolitan Market | Marshmallows, Cake Pops, Chocolate Chip Cookies: The Sweet Side

I don’t often make promises but the very first image from Pepper Nix Photography of the bride in her stunning gown is going to pull you in and I’m positive you’re not going to want to leave this one. Honey of a Thousand Flowers brought in trees y’all. Trees. The Utah fall foliage was so amazing that she had to bring it inside the soiree, and you couldn’t pay me to leave this gallery!

From the floral designer… This was a one year vow renewal and wedding celebration for Meredith and Chris. They had a destination wedding in Utah at the St. Regis in Deer Valley, Utah. The trees in the mountains were in full-color and created a wonderful setting for their celebration. They had a long head table down the center of the tent with all of their friends.

Meredith wore a gardenia in her hair like both her mother and grandmother did on their wedding day. Meredith’s mother contributed a lot of things to the wedding, like hand writing all of the guest’s name cards.

The wedding was held on a perfect Autumn day, and was a wonderfully cozy, candle filled autumn event for of their guests.

Photographer: Pepper Nix | Florist: Sarah Winward | Entertainment: Party Crashers | Ceremony and Dinner Venue: The St. Regis Deer Valley | Tent, string lights: RSVP | Venue coordination: Catherine Johnson | custom lighting gobo: PSAV

We realize Halloween isn’t one of those holidays that’s necessarily “pretty.” Thanksgiving, Christmas, and even New Year’s all have elegance built right in ’em. But Halloween…um, not so much. So in an effort to up the ante on your trick-or-treat festivities, we’ve rounded up seven fun ways to craft a Halloween gone glam.

One. Trick-or-treaters will thank you for these little candy swag bags.

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Two. Say “cheers” with a pretty cider cocktail.

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Three. Black dress = all drama with a side of gorgeous.

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Four. Design a centerpiece that WOWS.

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Five. “Punkins” with a Kate Spade spin.

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Six. Pumpkin ice bucket = total genius!

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Seven. Build a spooky – chic dessert table. Monochromatic gets us every time.

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What are YOUR plans for this spooktastic night? We’d love to hear in the comments! xoxo

Photos: One. Ruth Eileen Photography | Two. Rebecca Hansen Weddings | Three. Alea Lovely | Four. Rebecca Hansen Weddings | Five. Ruth Eileen Photography | Six. Rebecca Hansen Weddings | Seven. Rebecca Hansen Weddings

It’s Halloween! Which means that the leaves are all sorts of pretty, the kids are giddy and there is just a general sense of happy in the air. What better way to bring a smile to your family’s face than with a little Pancakes for Dinner fun. And now that you’re well versed in the Best Pancakes Ever, it’s a no brainer. Okay. I see your point. Sugar + Sugar + Kids = Scary. So save these Praline Pancakes for a rainy day when Fall feels just too good to let go of. I promise they are worth every last calorie.

AbbyPraline PancakesClassic pancakes are topped with a delicious praline pecan caramel sauce.

prep time 5 Minute/s

cook time 15 Minute/s

total time 20 Minute/s

Serves 6Ingredients

• 1 recipe for Best Pancakes Ever
• 1/2 cup pecan halves
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1 tbs butter
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Toast the pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium/high heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove and set aside
2. Lower the heat to medium and stir in maple syrup, heavy cream, brown sugar and salt.
3. Stir over medium heat until desired thickness is reached. The longer you cook, the thicker and meatier it will be.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the butter, vanilla and the toasted pecans. Let cool for about 10 minutes.
5. Top pancakes with your praline sauce and try not to eat them all before your family arrives!
6. For a more "syrupy" version, increase your liquids (cream, syrup) to 1 cup each. You might need to simmer this variety a bit longer.

Halloween has a reputation for lacking that sophistication we adore so much on SMP. So we love, love, love when we come across a shoot like this one from Anna Delores Photography that beautifully inspires ways to incorporate the holidays with style. It doesn’t hurt, of course, to have a ridiculously cute little one holding the gorgeous florals from Stella Bloom Designs. We melt for that. Top it off with some stunning styling by A Charming Occasion, and ladies and gents, we have a winner. See it all here.

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Photography: Emily Loeppke Photography | Floral Design: Stella Bloom Designs | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Invitations: Crafty Pie Press | Jewelry: BHLDN | Ceremony & Reception Venue: Gerry Ranch | Coordination & Styling: Joelle Charming | Rentals: Town And Country

Happy Halloween SMP Canada! We love any reason to celebrate around these parts, and today we get to toast to Halloween in style thanks to this fabulous shoot from Claudette Marie Events. Every image from Christy Swanberg makes me wish I had enough foresight to throw a party this year, but instead I’ll just spend the day celebrating right here.

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Because we were using a lot of black for the chairs and linens, we didn’t want to go with a typical menu with black writing. We used a paper bag backing, which again added that rustic feel to the shoot, but printed in white ink on a solid black card stock to make it pop a little more. We wanted to bring in a fun element to the shoot so incorporated the use of the skeleton hands to hold the menus and the golden skulls for added decor elements. The striped chair and sign also were an interesting addition. I think I would enjoy having a Halloween feast at this party!

Photography: Christy Swanberg | Styling and design: Claudette Hogan | Flowers: Dahlia Floral Design | Stationery: Creative Finch | Decor items: The Social Page | Linens: Linen Closet | Provincial park: Fish creek | Rentals: Special Event Rentals

I know I’m not supposed to choose, but fall weddings are my favorite.  I mean, not only do they happen to take place smack-dab in the middle of the world’s greatest season (hello football, hot cocoa and comfy sweaters), they are always filled to the brim with those cozy details and vibrant colors I can never get enough of. And when that fall wedding goes hand in hand with a little romantic rainy day drizzle like this beautiful love-filled affair?  Call me smitten.  See it all captured by Autumn and Melinda Photography right here.

From Autumn and Melinda Photography… “Happy is the Bride the Rain Falls On…”

There are few things more beautiful that the leaves of fall in the midwest. Rachel and Dexter planned a colorful wedding around the theme of “FALLing in love.” Every detail, from the bridesmaids Rust (Spice) colored dresses from Jordan, to the spectacular cake from Oak Mill bakery, to the Wishing tree, took advantage of the changing leaves and their amazing color. The only thing they hadn’t planned for was a mid-afternoon Chicago storm. This didn’t detour either of them, as they grabbed their friends, umbrellas and headed out into the rain. We had some fun with the umbrellas. The rain let up and the result was a gorgeous sky, and the most breathtaking Bride and Groom in a field with a moment left just for themselves.

Photography: Autumn And Melinda Photography | Floral Design: Shamrock Garden Florist | Wedding Dress: Sottero And Midgley | Wedding Cake: Oak Mill Bakery | Reception Venue: Klein Creek Country Club | Shoes: Betsey Johnson | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jordan | Makeup: Crystal Jadczak of Glitterbang Makeup | Hair: Stefanie Simpson | Band: Patrick N Swayze | Portrait Location: Cantigny Gardens | Second Shooter: Starlithawk Photography

A destination wedding in Maui is in and of itself pretty spectacular, but when you throw in a dream team of vendors that includes Laura Hooper Calligraphy, The Perfect Wedding Maui and Anna Kim Photography to make it all happen, it becomes a destination wedding that dreams are made of.  Case in point?  This beyond gorgeous day set against the beautiful Olowalu Plantation House.  It’s fab paper goods meets mesmerizing stylings meets all kinds of pretty.  See it all here in the full gallery.

From Cherise of The Perfect Wedding… It was a classic white wedding from the flowers to the groom’s shoes! An intimate gathering of family and friends joined Crystal & Joseph on this destination wedding. I had the pleasure of meeting this sweet couple about a year before the wedding when they came to Maui to view sites and meet potential vendors. We hit it off and began planning their day right away. While many things changed along the way, the romantic vision remained throughout. I loved the elegant details like the crystal chandeliers in the dining canopy and floating over the dance floor, the lavender and crystal accented pillows on the lounge seating, the silver beaded glass charger plates that held the classic white dinner plates, etc. Everywhere you looked there was some little bit of Crystal evident in the decor. As Crystal made her way across a bed of white orchids on her wedding aisle, Joseph was waiting with the most beautiful look of love oh his face. From their first look to their exit through a pathway of sparklers, this was a day to remember and I for one am honored to have played a part in the day.

Photographer: Anna Kim Photography | Wedding Planner: Cherise Shulman of The Perfect Wedding Maui | Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Catering: Food For The Soul | Hair & Makeup: Maui Mira | Officiant: Laki Kaahumanu | Transportation: Executive Transportation | Venue: Olowalu Plantation House | Bride's Dress: Mikaella Bridal | Cake & Desserts: Cake Fanatics | Ceremony Musician: Marvin Tevaga | Printed Materials, Calligraphy & Wood Signs: Laura Hooper Calligraphy | Wedding Ring: Tacori

The color palette in this gorgeous Red Corral Ranch wedding by Matthew Johnson Studios is enough to inspire all of you out there any day of the year, but it feels even more fitting today. Why you ask? Because it’s fall perfection, and it’s like sprinkling a little style over all hallows eve. With the gorgeous (and I mean, gorgeous) florals from WOW Factor Floral Design and all the details planned to perfection by Wedding Warriors, this gallery is one inspiring place to be this Halloween. See why here.

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The morning rains eventually lifted and we were able to get outside and enjoy the beautiful grounds of Red Corral Ranch. The reception at the Big Red Barn kept the fun going with great live music by Rhythm Inc. and a photo booth featuring old wooden picture frames that Zach and Karolina had collected. The classic styling of the wedding fit the couple perfectly and was a great blend of traditional with a touch of Texas Hill Country feel to it.

Photography: Matthew Johnson Studios | Event Planning: The Wedding Warriors | Floral Design: WOW Factor Floral Design | Wedding Dress: Judd Waddell | Ceremony Venue: Red Corral Ranch | Shoes: Alex Marie | Catering: Austin Catering | Hair and Makeup: Margo Mead Styling | Music Ceremony: Will Taylor & Strings Attached | Music Reception: Rhythm, Inc.

There’s no denying it, fall is officially upon us.  And with the cooler temps and changing colors also comes some of the prettiest weddings you will ever have the privilege to lay your eyes upon.  Weddings that are rich with meaning and beauty, weddings that scream flawlessly chic.  And if you think I am talking about this gorgeous day captured by Britt Croft, you are right on the money.  Because this is a day that is chock-full of all of the aforementioned with a big ol’ dose of amazing.  See it all right here in the full gallery.

From the Bride… Matt and I first met in the 7th grade. We weren’t friends until we began dating towards the end of high school, but who knew that over seven years later we would be getting married!

When Matt proposed in the most romantic way possible (in Paris!) we knew we wanted to share a heartfelt wedding day with all of our friends and family. Our engagement lasted over two years, which left plenty of time for planning! Since we had been dating for so long, our families were already really close. Both my mom and Matt’s mom were highly involved in the planning stage. We couldn’t have done as much as we did without their help!

We wanted the day to be personal, casual and fun. We chose an outdoor venue because we both love natural beauty. Belle Terra was so beautiful without needing much décor. The ceremony was held outside between the lakes and the reception was held in the conservatory. It had the outside feel but the comfort of knowing we were covered if it rained.

Our dog, Mufasa, is a large part of our life. We’ve had him for most of our relationship and knew he had to be included in the photos. He just looked so handsome in his bowtie!

My Pawpaw passed away about a year before the wedding. We wanted for him to be there in spirit and wanted my Nana to know he was there, too. My mom had the original wedding cake topper from their wedding in 1956 so we surprised her by having it on a smaller cake at the reception. The look on her face when she saw it was priceless!

We also wanted to make sure we had some time to ourselves amongst saying hello to so many friends and family members. Since we did a first look, we had some time before the reception to eat at a table outside. It was just the two of us, if only for ten minutes, and it was so worth it.

One of the best decisions we made was getting a wedding planner. Holly was so helpful throughout the whole process and allowed us to focus on bigger things than what time the cake was arriving. It’s so important to have some help especially if you are a stress ball like I am. We trusted Holly and the vendors she worked with. Our flowers turned out more beautiful than I could even imagine even though I couldn’t tell the florist my exact vision. The DJ worked it on the dance floor to make sure none of our guests were wallflowers and we also included a photo booth, which everyone loved!

If there is one tip I would give to another bride….. don’t be afraid to enter contests! I won my dress for FREE from Moonlight and Val Stefani as well as some other smaller items.

Photography: Britt Croft Photography | Cinematography: With This Ring Wedding Films | Event Planning: The Season Events | Floral Design: Bussey's | Wedding Dress: Val Stefani | Cake: Honeymoon Bakery | Bride's Shoes: Nine West | Bridesmaids Dresses: David's Bridal | Catering: Harvest Moon Cafe | Hair + Makeup: Collette Eubanks | Groomsmen Attire: Savvi Formalwear | Wedding Venue: Belle Terra | Bridal Boutique: La Raine's Bridal Boutique | Music: The TC Show | Photobooth: ShutterBooth | Veil: Erica Angeline

Today calls for all things fall, don’t you agree? It is Halloween after all, and although this engagement session is more sweet than spooky, it feels fitting to feature it today. From the foliage to the fashion, every image of these two cuties captured by Gina Brocker Photography gives me the warm and fuzzies, and you can see why right here.

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From the couple…We met for the first time in Boston’s seaport at Jerry Remy’s in June 2011 but feel our story started long before that. After all, we had grown up in the same hometown yet had never crossed paths. The very next weekend Joey invited me to his lake house for an annual fireworks show and from that night on we were inseparable. Joey proposed nine months later at the top of a lighthouse in Newburyport. A year and a half later we were married at the Boston Harbor Hotel.

Returning from the high of a magical wedding and honeymoon can leave you ready for more adventures together. Doing the love session was an incredibly sweet way to continue to indulge in our love and happiness as newlyweds and took us right back to the water – where most of the pivotal moments in our relationship have taken place. Aurburndale Cove in Newton, Massachusetts was the perfect backdrop for fall romance. The fog was hanging heavy over the river and the sprinkle of rain was the perfect touch – nothing like getting snuggly on a dreary day. Our favorite part of the shoot had to be when we jumped into the canoe together and started to feed the ducks. It felt like a mini adventure as we explored the area during the shoot and it took us right back to all of the emotions we felt from the night we met, to our engagement, and wedding day and night. Lastly, the photographer, Gina Brocker, is absolutely amazing, creative and fun to be around. We couldn’t be happier with how it turned out!

Photographer: Gina Brocker Photography | Makeup: Dani Wagener Beauty | Hair: Lindsay Griffin | Her Boots: Frye Boots | Her Dress: Juicy Couture | Her Jeans: J Brand | Her Sweater: LA Made | Her Vest: Adrienne Landau | His Navy Sweater: Club Monaco | His Pants: Club Monaco | His Red Sweater: Banana Republic | His Shoes: Johnston & Murphy | Location: Hale Koa phineas Estate | Outdoor Location: Hale Koa phineas Estate

Confession: Halloween is cool in my book as long as we don’t have to watch Hocus Pocus. I saw the movie when a little girl and have been terrified of the Sanderson sisters ever since. However, after coming across this Hocus Pocus inspired shoot from Sequined Silver Lining and Lovestru.ck Weddings & Events, I’ve come to the conclusion that I can be on board with Halloween, Hocus Pocus and all, as long as I get this version, from Meghan Savage Photography, of the story. Obsessed might be an understatement.

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From Lovestru.ck… Natalie and I have worked together for the past few years, and when Natalie asked me to reunite with her (she moved to Kansas City a few months ago) to create a Fall-inspired photo shoot, I jumped at the opportunity to work with her again.

We bounced a lot of ideas off each other, but we settled on creating a dark and moody styled shoot. We wanted to design a shoot that was centered on beautiful and inspiring bridal looks with dramatic and mysterious undertones.

Natalie and I have styled multiple shoots together, and we’ve always discussed wanting to work with a red head, brunette and blonde for models. Luckily, Natalie was able to find three models that fit the bill for this shoot. As I was running outside a few weeks ago and thinking about the changing seasons, I was suddenly inspired to add in elements from my favorite Halloween movie, Hocus Pocus. Using our photographic memory of the movie (like most women our age, watching Hocus Pocus is a yearly tradition) we referenced the Sanderson Sisters’ hair, makeup and wardrobe as well as the movie’s set design throughout the shoot.

Attire:
For the wardrobe, Natalie pulled gowns that had a hint of color, and we played with using traditional veils as witches’ capes. Natalie paired fall accessories such as leather gloves and fur vests with the delicate bridal gowns to give them an edge. We also incorporate an evil eye bracelet into Winifred’s look to reference the head witch’s infamous one-eyed book.

Tablescape/Props:
The tablescape had to be bewitching but also relatable. I wanted the table to look like something The Sanderson Sisters would put together for a dinner party. We used dark metals, silky velvets, glowing candles and rich copper tones to give it a layered but moody feeling. The table was set for Winifred, Sarah and Mary Sanderson as well as Mr. Thackery Binx – the beloved black cat in Hocus Pocus.

Flowers:
Melissa from Blooms and Bouquets created earthy and dark floral arrangements using red astilbe, burgundy scabiosa, stained pepper berry, cranberry viburnum, passion flower vine, and dark red peonies.

Desserts:
Angela crafted many beautiful and delicious desserts for our shoot. The tablescape featured fluted chocolate cake with chunks of honeycomb and pomegranate. Our dessert display included liege waffles with a thick caramel coating, an extra tall Devil’s food cake with chocolate salted caramel buttercream and super dark chocolate chunk cookies.

Photography: Meghan Savage Photography | Floral Design: Blooms And Bouquets | Stationery: Velvet Raptor | Make up: Lashes and Love | Hair: Bungalow/8 Hairdressing | Calligraphy: The Pretty Paperie Shop | Bridal Gowns: Jillian Fellers | Bridal Gowns: Ready Or Knot | Creative Direction/Styling: Lovestru.ck | Nails: Chill Body | Pastry: Angela Garbacz Pastry | Wardrobe Styling:: Sequined Silver Lining

Actually the best pancakes ever are at this little gem in San Francisco. Mama’s on Washington Square. I still dream about those pancakes and have yet to find a recipe that even compares. But this one? Well it’s pretty damn close. These pancakes – that I discovered over on Kristi’s Dishes – are sort of heavenly. Fluffy in the center, crisp on the outside. Sort of sweet but in a subtle, lovely-ish way. This is the best recipe I’ve found and will probably be the recipe that I hold on to forever. *Update: After making these a zillion times, I removed the Baking Soda. Not needed. Also, I tend to skip the melted butter and even the vinegar because I’m usually in a hurry and the kids love them just as much without those ingredients:) Happy pancaking!

AbbyBest Pancakes EverFluffy, light, full of flavor pancakes. The perfect pancake recipe.

prep time 15 Minute/s

cook time 10 Minute/s

total time 25 Minute/s

Serves 6Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cup milk
• 4 Tablespoons vinegar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 6 Tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 4 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 teaspoons vanilla

Instructions

1. Combine the milk and vinegar in a small bowl for 10 minutes. You could also use buttermilk for this step but we like the flavor of this process better.
2. Mix the dry ingredients together in a large.
3. In a smaller bowl, whisk the soured milk, egg and melted butter.
4. Pour into the wet ingredients into the dry and gently blend until flour is just incorporated. It's okay to have lumps.
5. Let the batter sit, undisturbed for about 10 minutes. Do not stir it at all.
6. Melt 2 Tbs butter into a pan set to medium high.
7. Gently pour a ¼ cup of batter onto your frying pan or griddle.
8. Cook until bubbles appear on the surface of the pancake and then flip with a spatula and brown the other side.

PANCAKE MAKING TIPS

1. Don’t over-stir your pancakes. Kristi whisks hers until most of the lumps are gone. I gently blend mine until flour is incorporated even if there are still lumps. Try both methods and see which you prefer!
2. Keep your pan on medium. Too high and the surface will burn while the inside is still gooey.
3. For super round pancakes, spray an extra large round cookie cutter with oil or butter and pour your batter into the mold. Remove the mold when you are ready to flip.
4. For the best looking pancakes, follow these two rules. Don’t overcrowd the pan. 1-2 pancakes in a pan is plenty. When flipping, don’t hesitate. Flip it quickly and try not to give it too much rise.
5. To save leftover pancakes, just let them cool then freeze. To reheat, pop them in to toaster or the microwave.

Coming up next, an AMAZING Fall inspired pancake topper perfect for Halloween!

On this festive day, we thought we would celebrate all things fall on SMP New York, because really, we love any excuse we can get to cozy up with some autumn inspiration. And it doesn’t get more fall than an apple orchard engagement that is as adorable as this one from Amy Rizzuto. So break out the flannel shirts and boots, and join us in the full gallery of images for even more.

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Photography: Amy Rizzuto Photography | Location: Ochs Orchard | Mugs: Anthropologie | Wooden Apple Crate: TJ Maxx

Fall in Key West is a magical thing.  It’s vibrant, colorful and chock-full of pretty.  And on a day that we celebrate one of fall’s happiest holidays (it’s Halloween, lovelies!), we thought it only appropriate to also celebrate all of that aforementioned South Florida beauty.  I’m talking lush blooms from Soiree Key West, crazy cool paper goods from Invites by Danette and a yummy + gorgeous cake from Key West Cakes.  See it all captured by Filda Konec right here in the full gallery.

The ladies at Soiree Key West decided to take inspiration from Key West’s vibrant culture and mix it up with the city’s lush landscape for an organic, rustic vibe. The florals infuse fresh kale and citrus which compliment the beautiful gardens of Old Town Manor – perfect venue for intimate garden event. The colors are great for Halloween and the upcoming Thanksgiving holidays.

Photography: Filda Konec Photography | Floral Design: Soiree Key West | Cake: Key West Cakes | Invitations: Invites By Danette | Jewelry: Chloe and Isabelle by Lee | Hair and Make-up: Casa Salon | Headpieces: Can Can Couture | Location: Old Town Manor | Party Rentals: Key West Party Rentals | Planners: Soiree Key West