When a wedding has this much heart, you can almost feel it.  Like the pure joy and love that went into crafting this Big Day is almost too much for the internet to handle (it is).  I guess that has a little something to do with the darling bride and groom, who went about creating a day that will not only stand the test of time, but knock your socks off with its pretty.  Think lush, pink blooms from Violet and Verde meets a gorgeous backyard setting. See every beautiful moment captured by Minnow Park in the full gallery.

From the Bride… My husband John and I were married on June 22, 2013 after 8 1/2 years together. We had just over 100 people, and carried on my parent’s tradition of marrying on my grandfather’s beautiful property in Woodbury, Long Island, NY.

We were so lucky to have had so many amazing family heirlooms to use that tied in perfectly with our vintage theme. We utilized my great-grandmother’s 1920’s sewing machine as a cake table (also a nod to my fashion design career), milk glass from our families (including some from my parent’s wedding on the same property) for our centerpieces, and lace from my mother’s dress adorned my self-made veil and wrapped all the bouquets.

Aside from all of the family antiques we injected into our big day, our wedding was largely DIY and definitely budget! I handmade my veil, sash, hair pieces for my MOH, and some signage. Our whole entire family pitched in to landscape the property, which was severely damaged by hurricane Sandy.

Basically, we put our hearts into this, everyone had a great time. and we are so proud of the finished product!

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Photographer: Minnow Park | Florist: Violet and Verde | Stationery: GG Circus Papers | DJ: Sugartown Industries- DJ Wells | Officiant: Rev April Grismondi | Bridal Salon: The White Gown | Bride’s Vintage Rings: Erie Basin | Bridesmaids Dress: Lord & Taylor | Bridesmaids Dress: ModCloth | Day-of Coordinator: Dear Jeni | Dress Designer: Blue by Enzoani | Groom + Best Man’s Attire: Jos. A. Bank | Groom’s Ring: Blue Nile | Maid of Honor Dress: Ann Taylor | Makeup: Erin Rachel’s Faces | Photobooth:Majestic Photobooth | Rentals: A to Z Party Rental

I obviously had to save the best recipe for last. I mean, in my opinion at least. There isn’t much that tops a chocolate cake, unless said chocolate cake is drizzled in glitter!! That’s right, my dears. Glitter cake. It’s like magic, I know. Move over naked cakes, there’s a new contender in town!

Jacquelyn ClarkChocolate Drizzled Glitter Cake

prep time 1 Hour/s

cook time 35 Minute/s

total time 1 Hour/s 35 Minute/s

Serves 8Ingredients

• Your favorite dark chocolate cake recipe, or store bought cake mix (we don’t judge!)
• 1lb powdered sugar
• 1 stick butter
• 4 tbs milk
• Orange food coloring
• Black food coloring
• 9 oz chopped bittersweet chocolate
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 6” cake pans
• Edible gold glitter stars
• Whisk

Instructions

1. Bake cake layers according to your recipe and let cool.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat together butter, sugar, milk, and orange food coloring. Spread a layer of frosting on one cake layer, then top with the second layer of cake. Frost the cake and use a spatula to smooth sides as completely as possible.
3. Place the chocolate and a dab of black food coloring in a large mixing bowl. Pour the cream into a small saucepan and bring to a boil on medium heat. As it reaches a boil, pour over the chocolate and whisk until smooth. Allow the ganache to cool slightly, then gently pour on the center of the cake. Sprinkle gold glitter on the ganache and let cool before serving.

DIY PROJECTS: Fringe Backdrop | Gold Dotted Vase | Treat Bags

RECIPES: Gilded Candy Apples | Apple Ginger Cocktail 

THE FULL PARTY

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Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography | Design & Styling: Style Me Pretty Living

In all fairness, I’ve never really met a cocktail I didn’t love. But since I’m a sucker for all things festive, fun and fancy, this apple ginger concoction has quickly risen to the top of my must-drink list (why yes, I do have a must-drink list). With just a few easy steps, we’ll show you just how to recreate this pretty Halloween punch.

Jacquelyn ClarkApple Ginger Halloween Cocktail

prep time 5 Minute/s

cook time

total time 5 Minute/s

Serves 1Ingredients

• Black sugar sprinkles
• 1 oz Apple vodka
• 2 oz Ginger ale
• 2 oz Apple juice
• Splash of grenadine
• Pink food coloring
• Orange food coloring

Instructions

1. Rim the cocktail glass in black sugar and set aside.
2. In a separate glass, stir together apple juice, grenadine, and pink food coloring. Pour into cocktail glass. This will be the bottom layer because it is the most sugar-saturated.
3. In another glass, stir together apple vodka, ginger ale, and orange food coloring. Place an upside down spoon over the pink layer (almost like an umbrella), as close as you can to the liquid. This layer is less dense and should float on top of the bottom layer. Gently, SLOWLY, pour the orange layer onto the spoon until the glass is full- if you pour too quickly the layers will merge into one another. Serve immediately.

DIY PROJECTS: Fringe Backdrop | Gold Dotted Vase | Treat Bags

RECIPES: Gilded Candy Apples

THE FULL PARTY

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Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography | Design & Styling: Style Me Pretty Living

This pretty Amsterdam fête takes me to my happy place. Whether it’s the yellow, or the sunshine or the stunning captures by SugarLove Weddings, I’m not sure. But it all adds up a big ol’ smile I can’t seem to wipe off my face. It’s the kind of castle affair most girls dream of, and there’s lots more waiting for you right over here.

Photography: SugarLove Weddings | Ceremony Location: Huize Scherpenzeel | Reception Venue: Huize Scherpenzeel | Bridesmaids Dresses: Alfred Sung | Makeup: Dung Nguyen | Hair: Salon La Kim | Bow Tie: Alfred Sung | Grooms Attire: Armani | Decor: Bulk Party Supplies | Decor: Paper2 | Music: Vibes Factory

A natural, green as can be setting can far outweigh any amount of man-made fanfare. Just have a look at this outdoor wedding captured by Geneoh for proof. Of course, not all of us are lucky enough to have a forrest canopy at our fingertips but taking a few cues from the styling of Munster Rose and you can add the look and feel of a wedding gone au naturel to your big day. Sometimes all it takes is wood accents and greenery wherever you can tuck it. Have a look here for more.

From the Bride… While in the midst our wedding planning, a wise friend told me, “The intangibles make the occasion.” This is certainly true; it is the moments, the careful thoughtfulness of the details, and the shared memories that I remember the most about our wedding day.

If I were to use 5 words to describe our wedding it would be, “togetherness”, intimate, natural, elegant, and simple. Wessel and I are simple people who value family, friends, our faith, simple beauty, and of course, each other. Thus, we tried to find a venue that was suitable for a small intimate wedding of our closest friends and family. This was tricky, as Wessel is from South Africa and I am from Minnesota, oceans apart. Even more, we both wanted all of our relatives and friends to be able to attend, but alas, we had to choose, and we decided on the Smith Douglas Moore House. The Smith Douglas Moore House was built in 1877 (we have a “thing” for the number 7), which has so beautifully been renovated into a coffee shop that maintains the charm of the 1800’s. The house had a large tree covered backyard, which we lined with wooden chairs and tables for both the ceremony and the reception, and we kept the inside of the house as a back-up for rain, and a mingling center during our cocktail hour. Note the future brides: always have a rain plan. We lucked out with beautiful weather, but I cannot tell you how many weddings get rained out, with brides that highly regret not making a successful rain plan.

Now, Wessel and I won the wedding lottery when we found out we were able to work with a group of amazing and talented individuals through the Midwest Wedding Project. It is beyond words how talented our these people are (as you can see from the photographs that Gene Pease of Geneoh Photography captured so eloquently.) Lizie of Lizie Anne Weddings and Proposals, was an absolute angel as our wedding planner, alongside the styling and floral design of miss Jackie at Munster Rose. I never knew how much help a wedding planner and florist/stylist could be, with their knowledge of vendors, itineraries, layout design etc. It turned my hypothetical dream board into a reality of soft white peony blooms, garlands, wooden accents, candles, and botanicals. Words can’t describe the work of these two. We also had the privilege of working with Harrison Collective on the invitations and programs, which literally made me squeal and cry when I first saw the designs. Brandon managed to capture our personality and style with the simple elegance we love, and a hint of our nautical wandering selves. Not to mention, the tied rosemary on the programs that made my heart so happy. Wessel and I wanted to include objects that tell stories, like the green glass candy dish that my grandmother handed down to me, and the wood burl table that my parents made from the wood of a redwood tree, our favorite family-made desserts, half log seating chart (courtesy of my cousins, brother-in-law and sister-in-law), and the wood burned sign, remembering all those that could not be with us on that special day. The final ambience was “besonders” (Afrikaans roughly translated: unbelievably beautiful and special.)

Then there was the day. Everything was perfect, as I walked on the arm of my dad and met Wessel under the trees. We cried and we laughed, and I tell you, that moment, holding his hands, and seeing his eyes, is what marriage is about. The other details are added blessings.

From the Vendors… Kate and Wessel were part of The Midwest Wedding Project. This project was created by local MN artists who wanted to give-back to the community and bless one lucky couple with their dream wedding. After hearing the modern-day love story of this Minnesota native and her South African fiance, we KNEW Kate and Wessel were the perfect couple for this Project. (Geneoh, Lizie Anne, Munster Rose and Harrison Collective are the founding members of the Midwest Wedding Project.)

Photographer: Geneoh | Stationery: Harrison Collective | Brides' Shoes: Vince Camuto | Catering: Chowgirls Killer Catering | Hair: Marc Daniel Salon | Groom's Attire: Jos. A. Bank | Bride's Dress: Allure Bridal | Ceremony and Reception: Smith Douglas More House | Coordination and Design: Lizie Anne | Desserts: Homemade by Bride and Groom's family | Floral, Styling, and Design: Munster Rose | Pastor: Jonathan from Discovery Church | Rentals (Chairs): Ultimate Events | Rentals (Tables): Rudy's Rustic Rentals

I used to think that candy apples we’re one of those classic treats that you just didn’t want to mess with. Yeah, you could add a caramel coating, some peanuts, m&m’s, what have you. But in my opinion they all palled in comparison to the original version. That is, until you gild them. Because the second that happens, all bets go out the window. Gilded black candy apples? It doesn’t get much better than that.

Jacquelyn ClarkGilded Black Candy Apples

prep time 10 Minute/s

cook time 15 Minute/s

total time 25 Minute/s

Serves 6Ingredients

• 2 cups sugar
• 3/4 cup water
• 2/3 cup light corn syrup
• 1 1/4 teaspoons black food coloring
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• (6) 8” or 10” wooden skewers
• 6 red apples
• Edible gold glitter stars
• Metallic gold paint
• Paintbrush
• Wax paper
• Cooking oil spray
• Candy thermometer

Instructions

1. Paint wooden skewers gold, excluding the last 2" towards the pointed end (which will be inserted in the apples).
2. Spray wax paper with cooking oil spray and set aside. Insert the sticks into the apples.
3. Combine sugar, water, corn syrup, black food coloring, and cinnamon in a saucepot. Insert a candy thermometer. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high. Boil until the mixture reaches 300°F, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Immediately dip the apples into the syrup, swirling the apple around until all sides are covered. Place the candied apples onto the prepared wax paper and sprinkle with gold glitter. Apples can be made up to 6 hours in advance of serving.

DIY PROJECTS: Fringe Backdrop | Gold Dotted Vase | Treat Bags

THE FULL PARTY

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Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography | Design & Styling: Style Me Pretty Living

By now you know we have a serious love for Macy’s. But can you blame us? They’re basically the mother of all wedding registries, with the perfect products for couples transitioning into life as Mr & Mrs. Last week we popped by their Herald Square Sip & Scan event, and boy did they deliver! From music to mocktails, shopping to scanning, Macy’s made the registry process EVEN more magical. Violet & Verde sprinkled the place with floral pretties and Kathryn Suellentrop + Tim Alan Smith put all the fun to film. We’re looking back at our favorite memories from the night, and there’s even more Macy’s goodies to be seen right here!

The whole event was so upbeat and fun. Couples were mingling, scanning, working with consultants while snacking and drinking yummy mocktails. Scratch DJ was playing great tunes and we loved his energy. Macy’s had everything you could possibly imagine out on display on the registry floor. It’s so helpful to see it, hold it, sit on it, (you name it) in person before registering.

For the vignettes SMP designed, we went for lots of light neutrals to keep an airy, welcoming feel in the space. You’ll notice lots of tufted fabric pieces that are relaxed enough for everyday use but add some glamour to the room. We accented the main pieces with glimmering metallics to add a bit of sparkle and perk up the space, on everything from throw pillows to dishware to coasters. All the fabric makes for a soft, plush space, and the metallics make sure it’s nowhere close to boring.

On the bed we played with texture, from the satin sheen on the duvet to the beaded throw pillows. Setting up the bar on a mirrored table keeps the area festive and party-ready. Fresh, feminine flowers bring out the beauty in the space and give that finished, polished feeling.

Macy’s had a ton of staff on hand to answer questions and help set up couples’ registries. They are extremely knowledgeable in all of the brands and were 100% focused on the couples. We felt so lucky to join in on all the fun!

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Photography: Kathryn Suellentrop | Floral Design: Violet & Verde | Film: Tim Alan Smith Wedding Films

Macy’s Products in First Image Board: Trend Table Lamp, Palla | Moderne Bedroom Furniture: Bed, Nightstand | Hotel Collection Bedding, Woven Cord Collection | Sensorpedic Luxury Euro Style Memory Foam Mattress Topper | SensorGel Bedding, Gusset Foam Standard Pillow | Hotel Collection Bedding, Finest Luster Decorative Pillows | Hotel Collection Bedding, Finest Venetian Decorative Pillow Collection | Donna Karan Bedding, Modern Classics Gold Leaf 12″ Square Decorative Pillow | kate spade new york Dinnerware, Belle Boulevard Collection | kate spade new york Todd Hill Stainless Flatware Collection | Waterford Stemware, Waterford Clear Collection | Reed & Barton Barware, Tempo Collection | Reed & Barton Barware, Soho Collection | kate spade new york “Larabee Road” Polka Dot Tidbit Plates | kate spade new york Coasters, Set of 4 Silver Street

Macy’s Products in Second Image Board: Marais Credenza, Mirrored Sideboard | Lenox Barware, Tuscany Classics Bar Accessories Collection | Marais Dining Chairs | Donna Karan Bedding, Modern Classics Truffle 10″ x 9.5″ Decorative Pillow | Marais Dining Room Furniture Collection, Mirrored

Macy’s Products in Third Image Board: Hotel Collection Blanket, Cotton Blankets | Hotel Collection Bedding, Finest Luster Decorative Pillows | Hotel Collection Bedding, Finest Venetian Decorative Pillow Collection | Marais Table, Mirrored End Table | Martha Stewart Collection Serveware, Scalloped Cake Stand and Dome | Martha Stewart Collection Fabric Living Room Chair, Club Accent

Macy’s Products in Forth Image Board: Regina Andrew Table Lamp, Iron Mosaic | Reed & Barton Barware, Tempo Collection | Reed & Barton Barware, Soho Collection | Waterford Barware, Alana Essence Decanter | Monique Lhuillier Waterford Champagne Coupes | Godinger Serveware, Jamestown Beverage Dispenser | Lighting by Design Candle Holders, Lighting Collection

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When we threw our annual Halloween Party this year, we thought we’d turn the tables on you and come up with a fun and sassy affair (so, um, a 180 from our glam black & white themed event of 2012!) Inspired by this pin, and our much beloved Kate Spade, we decided that pink and orange was the name of the game, and with that we were off to the races. Our beloved Ruth Eileen was there to capture it all, and it can all be found right here.

This party was inspired by stripes and polka dots and all things whimsical. We wanted Halloween to feel fresh and fun and vibrant – something that kids and grown-ups alike could love.

Our backdrop served as the inspiration point for the day, with one part sparkle and one part graphic punch. We used that to inspire the various prints that we incorporated into every last detail – from the sweets and treats to the packaging and decor.

We wanted our look to feel sleek and modern so we doused our pumpkins in a super high gloss spray paint. The result looked chic and expensive but was a total cinch to make.

We stuck to “gussied up” treats rather than a full food spread. We dipped store bought wafers in chocolate coating, dunked apples in a high gloss candy coat, hand decorated pop tarts, with rock candy sticks for a bit of sparkle. The best thing about this approach is that you can really pull together a party in record time by simply gussying up pre-made goodies.

For those of you that are thinking of translating this into a dinner, we suggest some pretty gold flatware, simple white plates and “bowtie” napkins…just turn your folded napkin side way and cinch in the middle, tying to secure it with a pretty gold ribbon.

For our decor, we had fun with various prints that we found online and at Paper Source, keeping to a pink, orange, black and gold palette. We added black taper candles in gold and black holders, moments of glitter with gold glitter ribbon and washi tape and little bits of gold glitter dust as an icing on the pretty cake.

DIY PROJECTS: Fringe Backdrop | Gold Dotted Vase | Treat Bags

And keep your eyes peeled for the recipes, coming up this afternoon!

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Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography | Design & Styling: Style Me Pretty Living | Plates: Kate Spade | Rose Gold Flatware: West Elm | Cocktail Glasses: Anthropologie | Pink Napkins: Crate & Barrel | Glass Cake Stand: Crate & Barrel | Small Glass Cake Stand: Crate & Barrel | White Bowl: Crate & Barrel | White Serving Plate: Crate & Barrel | Candlestick Holders: CB2 | Rock Candy Glasses: Crate & Barrel | Edible Gold Stars: Wilton | Gold Dot Coasters: Kate Spade | Gold & Black Chevron Paper: Paper Source

The moodiness of Lime Green Photography‘s work is stunning. It really puts a lump in your throat, whether you know the beautiful couple or not. I don’t personally know these two (though, based on their amazing wedding I think we would totally hit it off) but I had to fight back the tears the entire time I was looking through the gallery!

From the beautiful bride… Nick and I are incredibly lucky in that we have extremely similar styles. (Well, we’re lucky for lots of other reasons too, but like-minded design sense is great for wedding planning!) We wanted a wedding venue that would let our guests venture inside and outside, with a design sensibility that was rustic yet elegant. Laurita Winery fit the bill perfectly, especially because my family has made our own wine for more than a decade. It was the first venue we looked at, and we signed the contract within a day of getting engaged.

We spent the next ten months putting it all together, and the day went perfectly. For the ceremony our 125 guests packed the little chapel, which was built in the 1800s. It was as small a wedding as we could have had, given that we both have large families, and it was fantastic to look around and see our closest friends and family members. We kept the ceremony largely traditional, but we threw in a string arrangement of The Pixies’ “Here Comes Your Man” for the processional — a nice foil to “Here Comes the Bride”!

For the reception, we wanted to provide lots of ways for our guests to have a good time. Our DJ Mike kept the dance floor full for the entire reception, which was a great mix of oldies to Top 40 to Kelis’ “Milkshake” for the bouquet toss. A separate room included lots of activities for people who wanted to take a break. My father put together a whiskey tasting, complete with homemade shot cards and personalized glasses he had made without our knowing. The photobooth line was almost out the door.

On decor, the only thing I was crazy-specific about was the exact shade of extremely pale green for our bridesmaids dresses and groomsmen’s ties. The celadon carried over into our flowers, which included pops of peach as well as lavender and rosemary herb accents that Nick loved. We put burlap runners on the tables, with bronzed table number tags looped over wine bottles. We’re not crafty people at all, so we made a few things that simply took hard work: cork placecard holders, wooden boxes for the floral centerpieces, our programs that we cut and scored, etc.

I would certainly recommend hiring vendors you admire and trust completely — at least for the major things. We never worried our DJ would play a bad song, the venue staff would forget something, our flowers wouldn’t be beautiful, our photos would come out anything less than wonderful. Finally, we made sure to create lots of day-of schedules, contact lists, and final check-ins with our vendors and bridal party. We both felt relaxed the morning of, because we knew that even if something went wrong, it would be something out of our control.

Although the wedding is about the two of you, you really do all that planning and detail-obsessing so your guests will have a good time. I almost teared up when several people told us it was one of the most fun weddings they’d ever been to — success! I would love to live in that day forever…but married life is pretty great too!

Photographer: Lime Green Photography | Videographer: A.J. Chavar | Florist: Twisted Willow Flowers | Reception Venue: Laurita Winery | Bridesmaid dresses: Dessy Collection By Vivian Diamond | Caterer: Conroy Catering | DJ: Remixologists | Suits: J.Crew | Cake/Dessert: Conroy Catering | Ceremony Site: Church of the Assumption Chapel | Dress designer: JLM Couture, Inc | Second shooter: Abbi O'Leary

When it comes to venues, HammerSky Vineyards has it all. Think rows and rows of rolling vineyards, with stunning shades of green as far as the eye can see. But add a Touch of Style, Adornments Flowers & Finery plus Jake and Necia Photography to the mix, and you’ve got a wedding so perfect it could bring you straight to tears. It’s a wonderland of pastel pretty that I wish I could live inside forever — but the next best thing? A trip to the full gallery over here.

From Touch of Style… In front of their closest friends & family, Tiffany and Austin tied the knot on a beautiful afternoon in early June at HammerSky Vineyards in Paso Robles, CA. As the guests arrived, they were welcomed with Strawberry Lemonade, Tropical Iced Tea and Citrus Water. A beautiful display of organic strawberries, sour cream with brown sugar finished off the beautiful exposed wood farmhouse table. Guests made their way to the ceremony which was centered under a large oak tree; the branches extended out for natural shade. Dark wood chiavari chairs were available for guests to sit as they waited for the bride to walk down the aisle. Two large arrangements of flowers flanked the entrance of the aisle. Petals were scattered down the aisle leading Tiffany to her groom.

After the ceremony the guests were invited over to the cocktail hour. White couches with coral & peach pillows added a pop of color to the space. The reception tables were draped in a dupionique iridescence white linens and accented with dupionique blush napkins. The sweetheart table consisted of a white love seat and a gorgeous exposed wood coffee table. Coral & peach pillows accented the couch for a pop of color. String lights strung overhead lit up the reception. A crystal chandelier hung above the dance floor, giving it a romantic touch..

All of the paper goods were hand painted water color. The menus, table numbers, seating assignment, dessert names, Love notes to the bride & groom and programs were all cohesive and went well with the style and colors. Inside the barn was the magnificent dessert table! Hand dipped paper garland, in shades of pink, peach & cream were hanging from above. Mixed in between were gold circles stung down peaking out through the stands. The exposed wood table was filled with Austin and Tiffany’s favorite desserts. One side was labeled “Hers” and the other side was labeled “His”, indicating their preferences. The guests wrote personal love notes to the bride and groom expressing their love for them or gave them advice as they begin their life together.

Photography: Jake And Necia Photography | Cinematography: ZoMei Video Productions | Floral Design: ADORNMENTS flowers + finery | Wedding Dress: Watters | Cake: Cake Cathedral | Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Catering: Trumpet Vine Catering | Hair + Makeup: The Queens Bees | Limo: Lush Limousines | Transportation: American Star Trailways | Venue: HammerSky Vineyards & Inn | Bride + Groom Rings: KFK | Design + Coordination: Touch of Style, Event Coordinating & Design | Dress Sash: Carol Hannah | Earrings - Bracelet: Nordstrom | Groom's Shoes: Aldo | Groom's Suit, Tie, Belt Shirt: Hugo Boss | Hair Clip: Custom by Olivia Vaatete | Lighting + DJ: Kramer Events | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: All About Events | Stationery + Signage: Umbrella Tree Design

I’m in love with this wedding. There, I said it. First I fell in love with stunning florals from Sugar Rose Flowers, and then my heart lept over the gorgeous setting that is the San Diego Botanic Garden. It’s a beautiful combination. But when I laid eyes on the couple in the center of it all captured beautifully by heidi-o-photo , I was a goner – because their love is the best detail of all. See it all right here.

From Heidi… Kelly & Lucas are the sweetest couple you’ll ever meet. Lucas is a buff rugby player with a soft heart and Kelly is a kind spirited yogi who loves to party. Kelly envisioned and planned a gorgeous blast of a wedding. Everything had an elegant pretty feel to it but was put together in a comfortable way. The colors were mostly soft pinks and greens with a few punches of color in the florals.

They chose the lovely San Diego Botanic as the venue for their celebration and it couldn’t have been better. They tied the knot surrounded by tall trees and partied out on a lawn with market lights and a gazebo. They chose long tables and dinner was served family style. In the middle of all the tables was a dance floor and stage for the awesome band Last Call to perform.

They kept their wedding party small- Lucas chose his best friend as his best man and Kelly chose her sister as her maid of honor.

It was a beautiful celebration.

Photographer: heidi-o-photo | Coordinator: Coastyle Events | Floral Designer: Sugar Rose Flowers | Bakery: Sugar And Scribe | Invitations: Noon Design Shop | Reception Venue: San Diego Botanic Garden | Caterer: To the Point | Hair: Salon Elle | Band: Last Call

Engagement sessions bring out the little girl in me. I just can’t help but get a little giddy over two people so hopelessly in love it shows through a computer screen. And when that love is captured by Angie Branch Photography, it gets even better. Because every image sitting in this gallery is sure to put a smile on your face, and you can test that theory out right here.

Photography: Angie Branch Photography

This wedding is my happy place.  And by “happy place” I mean a drop-dead gorgeous lesson in all things glamorous and pretty.  Think glittery gold accents playing ever-so-nice with two seriously stunning newlyweds and one crazy awesome estate setting.  It’s the epitome of a traditional shindig with the perfect dose of whimsy.  See it all captured by Wendy Alana Photography in the full gallery.

From Wendy Alana Photography… Daniela and Franco’s Niagara wedding was all things glitter and gold. Their Italian heritage lent to the theme of the large wedding party, beautiful designers and delicious food. The wedding photos took place in the bride’s uncle’s 25,000 square foot mansion. The bridesmaid dresses were Hollywood vintage. The groomsmen looked dashing. Their banquet hall was New York style with platters of antipasto, oysters, sushi and every type of delicious cocktail you could imagine. The number 13 in Italian culture is considered an integer of luck. This number also represented symbolic occasions to the couple throughout their dating history.

Photography: Wendy Alana Photography | Wedding Dress: Allure Bridal | Ceremony Venue: Our Lady of the Holy Rosary | Reception Venue: Club Roma | Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Jewelry: Swarovski | Groom's Suit: Indochino | Men's Attire: Vera Wang | Bridesmaid's Purses: Michael Kors | Cake + Pastries: Criveller Cakes | Decor: Simply Beautiful Decor | Floral + Design: My Bouquet Floral Design | Groom's Shirt + Bowtie: Hugo Boss | Groom's Shoes: Tom Ford | Groom's Watch: Diesel Jeans | Live Band Trio: Mark Lalama | Veil: Allure Bridal

I’ll never stop professing my love for Chicago weddings. And it’s all because of weddings like this on at Room 1520 by Samantha Simmons. They just seem to have this fabulous layer of chic added to everything single moment of the big day, and this one planned by Tiffany of Soiree Weddings & Events is no different. It’s elegant, filled with stunning florals from Exquisite Designs and packed with personal touches – and it’s all waiting for you right here.

Fast forward four years to our engagement which was a complete surprise to me! Jeremy arranged my days off of work and whisked me off to a romantic weekend at the Esperanza Resort in Cabo San Lucas. He planned a private dinner on the beach where he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.

For our wedding we considered many different locations, even our current home of Los Angeles but we soon realized that we could only get married in Chicago. Chicago is where we met, where our families still live and the city that will always be our home. When we started planning the wedding we planned our must have list; an intimate wedding, great music and an amazing dinner. I figured that it would be so easy to plan a wedding from Los Angeles, was I wrong. When a day of wedding appointments was all but ruined by flight cancellations and delays because of fog, we landed with enough time to make one appointment. Arriving at 7pm on Thanksgiving Eve, almost 5 hours late we were able to taste the most amazing food prepared by the team at Boutique Bites. We booked with them that night and luckily I was able to find equally awesome vendors and a wedding planner to help me design our wedding.

This all started with the venue, we knew that we wanted a space to make our own. When we visited Room 1520 I was able to see that the blank canvas and beautiful chandeliers would be the perfect location for our wedding, even though Jeremy couldn’t! I told him to trust me, that this place would be amazing! For the design I really wanted to do modern wedding with a very romantic feel. To do this I chose blush, black and gold as the wedding colors and incorporated a lot of mercury glass. One of the items that really made the space were the flowers which consisted of white hydrangeas, white roses and cafe au lait dahlias in mercury glass footed bowls. With the help of a great florist I was able to get the flowers that I envisioned without going over budget.

The most enjoyable part of wedding planning was to make our day as personal as possible and incorporate our bulldogs. To do that I spent countless hours melting wax to make soy scented candles for wedding favors and designing our wedding programs that included a picture of our two bulldogs, Capone and Bugsy. And one of the most meaningful projects was cutting yards of tulle to make dresses for my three nieces that were part of the wedding party as the two flower princesses and ring princess. My countless list of projects and planning an unforgettable honeymoon in South Africa were only made possible by my wonderful fiancé ordering many nights of takeout!

Photographer: Samantha Simmons | Cinematography: Leap Weddings | Wedding Planner: Soiree Weddings & Events | Floral Design: Exquisite Designs, Inc. | Wedding Dress: Winnie Couture | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Catering: Boutique Bites | Hair & Makeup: Jennifer Johnson | Lighting: MDM Entertainment | Band: Little Jasmine Therapies and Spa | Suit: Rocky's Custom Clothes | Officiant: Rabbi Yoni | Transportation: Classic Wedding Car | Venue: Room 1520 | Wedding Venue: Room 1520 | Cake Topper: Lynn's Little Creations | Rentals: Tablescapes Event Rentals | Sash: Beau Bouquet | Sweets Table: Sweets Table Chicago

Destination weddings always feel like a lovely escape from the work day. Through images like these by J. Cogliandro Photography, you can spend hours pouring over this Bahama beauty at The One & Only – Ocean Club, and almost feel like you were there to soak in all the gorgeous coordinated by  Belle of the Ball. It’s the perfect example of why I will always swoon over destination weddings, and you can see why right here.

Photography: J. Cogliandro Photography | Cinematography: Dakine Films | Coordination: Belle Events | Wedding Dress: Amsale | Invitations: Atheneum Creative | Stationery: Atheneum Creative | Shoes: Miu Miu | Makeup: Jentry Kelley | Hair: Blush & Company | Band: Falcon | Wedding Venue: One And Only Ocean Club | Floral Design + Lighting + Tent: Wildflowers Bahamas | Welcome Bags: Atheneum Creative

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If I had to pick a favorite element of this wedding, it would be a three way tie between the polka dot dress (hello!), the can’t even talk about how perfect they are blooms from Petals, ink., and the super sweet, absolutely beautiful couple. Okay, maybe the couple would win, but really, I’m kind of obsessed with that dress. And those flowers. Thank you, thank you, thank you Now Fly Away for sharing your images of this stunning day with us!

From the Bride… I think I designed a hundred different styles of wedding (thanks, SMP) before the details started to feel like “us.” I tried to not over think everything, which was tough to do with two years to plan – my brother was stationed overseas in the US Army and it was important to us that he was in attendance.

The feel of the event was a top priority since 90% of our guests would be coming to Austin from out of town. After seeing literally every single venue in Austin and surrounding areas, we fell in love with Hacienda del Lago and the 1940’s farmhouse and sweeping lake views. It was the perfect blend of rustic and glamorous Austin – and there are peacocks!

I took bits and pieces of things I loved from blogs and magazines and designed the paper goods, table numbers, potted succulents, and ribbon chandeliers. I spent hours and hours painting and wrapping thread for our table numbers, cutting and tying ribbon for the chandeliers and chairs, and my favorite part, dipping white feathers in paint and glitter to add to the whimsy of the design. A friend of ours made gorgeous driftwood candleholders, and Martin even made a corn hole toss game we set up under the gorgeous live oaks on the lawn.

We delighted in creating our menu in order to highlight one of our favorite things – eating in Austin! Margaritas, cantaloupe aqua fresca, chips and salsa bar, chicken chile rellenos, brisket tacos, calabacitas, and to-go bacon breakfast tacos are still being raved about by our guests to this day. And the yummy little cupcakes and our gluten-free cutting cake were a huge hit!

The most important thing was what we achieved – a magical celebration with the people that we love, to start the next chapter of our life together. The incredibly talented and dedicated vendors, and now friends, that we were so fortunate to work with made our dream come true and for that we will always be grateful beyond words.

Photography: Now Fly Away | Cinematography: Memories Films | Flowers: Petals, ink. | Wedding Dress: Carmen Marc Valvo | Bridesmaids Dresses: Nordstrom | Catering: Crave Catering | Makeup + Hair: Propaganda Hair group | Lighting: Greenbelt DJ | DJ: Greenbelt DJ | Wedding Venue: Hacienda del Lago | Wedding Venue: Hacienda del Lago

This wedding has heart. It’s got that stop you in your tracks, grab the box of tissues, and maybe a cupcake to enjoy alongside the images, kind of heart. And a beautiful horse. Does it get any better? Dave Noonan of Carla Ten Eyck Photography captured these two in all their tenderness on the biggest day of their lives, and we couldn’t be happier that he sent it our way.

From David… Alyssa & Mark are awesome, I am so thankful to have such great clients. I don’t even know where to begin while trying to describe their wedding at White Memorial in Litchfield. So, I guess I’ll just let the photos tell the story of their day. I will say that Alyssa baked the amazing cupcakes herself and Mark handmade all the little rustic wooden details and displays. Sit back and take a look through some of my favorite photographs from the day.

Photography: Carla Ten Eyck | Flowers: Still River Gardens | Cake: Hannah's Bakery | Stationery: Of the Earth | Shoes: Toms | Hair and Makeup: Marinello School of Beauty | White Memorial: White Memorial

This wedding from Kristin Leigh Photography plays out like a fairytale. With he stunning Ritz Carlton setting draped in lovely florals and perfect details by the oh-so talented Engaging Events, a show-stopper of a gown, and a couple who couldn’t be more in love if they tried – this gallery  has once upon a time written all over it. See it all here.

Pink was the color of choice for Sarah- she really wanted a romantic look and her fairtale style gown really helped set the tone. We used pinks, peaches, ivorys, and champagne for her color palette– while her Save the Date, Wedding and Program had a vintage look on beautiful cotton paper, with the invitation being letterpressed by Sixpence Press.

One of our favorite design elements was the monogram that we had made for the dance floor. The cake, created by the groom’s grandmother, covered up the monogram during guest arrival- as the Sarah and Chris were introduced onto the dance floor- they immediately cut the cake- we then surprised the crowd by rolling the cake away and revealing the spot lit monogram on the dance floor- what a wow factor!

Photography: Kristen Alexander | Floral Design: Engaging Events, LLC | Church: Peachtree Road United Methodist Church | Catering: Ritz Carlton | Lighting: Ritz Carlton | Band: Root Doctors | Transportation: Atlantic Limo | Hotel: Ritz Carlton Buckhead | Event Planner/Designer: Engaging Events, LLC | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Paper Goods: Heather at Sixpence Press | Rentals: Peachtree Tents and Events | Second Photographer: Kristen Alexander

Jason Walz sent us a wedding that is ridiculously pretty, clean, fresh, and fun. And I loved it from the get go. Anything that happens under a Sperry Tent is my favorite, especially when Gourmet Galley is serving up their delish nosh, but the thing that held me close and wouldn’t let go? This couple. They’re absolutely adorable and I really want to be friends with them.

The entire film from Valerie Barnes is amazing, but my favorite part is about 1:36 into this…

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From Adrienne of Ruffles & Tweed… I had the absolute best time working with Emily and Julian AND their families. We were able to get together quite a bit during the planning process and every time was like visiting with dear old (fun, warm, excited, creative, loving, and incredibly hysterical) friends. They had a pretty clear vision of what they wanted their day to look and feel like (clean, classic, formal, hip), and it all came together perfectly with the help, collaboration, and genuine kindness of some of the most respected vendors in the business.

Emily and Julian exchanged vows under a perfectly designed chuppah that looked like it was always meant to be in the exact spot it was placed. And as if the exquisite landscape of the Island wasn’t enough, we added even more drama under the tent with a full wood floor, long banquet tables, pops of color, personalized menu cards, and touches of moss. We scattered custom wood directional signs throughout the Island, and pashminas in shades of green, yellow, and white adorned the dining chairs and lounge area.

Guests enjoyed Moscow Mules and dined on Stonington sea scallops, leg of lamb, and a magnificent dessert table stocked with candy, cakes (including a Stanley Cup groom’s cake), petit fours, and a macaroon tower. As the party continued into the night, we lit a lantern-filled pathway from the tent to a secret scotch and cigar lounge where guests drank, smoked, and chowed down on grilled cheese sandwiches hot off the grill. And, for the best end to a wedding that I’ve ever seen, the bride surprised her groom with a performance of Beyoncé’s “Countdown”. I really, really, really miss those two.

Photography: Sampaio/Walz Photography | Cinematography: Valerie Barnes Film | Event Planning and Design: Adrienne O'Connor of Ruffles and Tweed | Flowers: Stoneblossom | Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Shoes: Manolo Blahnik | Catering: Gourmet Galley Catering | Makeup: Jennie Fresa Brow & Beauty Bar | Hair: Posh Bridal | DJ: DJ Gatsby | Tent: Sperry Tents | Ceremony Musicians: Mystic Harpist | Cocktail Hour Musicians: New York Jazz Bands | Elihu Island: Adrienne O'Connor of Ruffles and Tweed | Generator/Sound: Power Posse | Paper Design: Lion in the Sun | Rentals: Rentals Unlimited | Toilet Trailer: Country Portables | Transporation: Dattco

Ozzy Garcia and perfect weddings go hand in hand. That’s a proven fact. Case in point — this life-changingly gorgeous Miami soiree that just might be his best work yet. It’s a lesson in the power of soft lighting and neutral palettes. But more than that, it’s a love story told through Ozzy’s lens, and you can watch it all unfold right over here.

From the Bride… My husband proposed to me at the top of Rockefeller center surrounded by a ton of tourists and a breathtaking view of Manhattan. Right afterwards, he took me on a surprise trip to Italy (marry the perfect guy: check!) where we explored Rome, Florence and Venice. In Florence, we stayed right outside the city in a gorgeous home turned charming bread & breakfast that was dripping with history and authenticity. From the arched little doorways, to the lace doilies that sat below our morning coffee cups, I totally fell in love with it. We drove from our B&B past gorgeous homes and gardens and up the hill to Piazza Michelangelo where we watched beautiful sunsets. I felt like the whole trip was in soft lighting. When it was time to plan the wedding, I wanted to channel everything I experienced there: a classic, timeless, soft and romantic beauty. Miami, my hometown, was a perfect place to achieve that.

We got married in a classic Coconut Grove church that both my parents and sister were married in. The ceremony was beautiful and emotional. The lighting coming through the stain glass made everything seem like a dream, which is exactly how it felt. The reception was held at Villa Woodbine, a perfectly timeless estate filled with pretty textures, gorgeous antique furniture, a beautiful tiled stairway, an intimate open courtyard, and a front lawn surrounded by huge oak trees and twinkling lights. The venue provided so much natural beauty and greenery that we didn’t need to add much.

In keeping with the softness I was so drawn to, we added ombre watercolor elements with the program, table numbers, menus and escort cards. Even the flower arrangements and bouquets created a sunset feel, with pink peonies, peach roses and white ranunculus against green accents. Lace tablecloths and runners, mercury glass, a tufted love seat, and one gorgeous draped chandelier hanging from the center garden sealed the deal. The evening was filled with joy, laughter and romance. It was perfect. We ended the night with tons of confetti and drove away in a 1964 classic white Pontiac GTO and the sounds of cans ringing behind us.

Photography: Ozzy Garcia | Flowers: Nevot Flower Design | Wedding Cake: Filled & Frosted | Invitations: Vera Wang | Ceremony Venue: St Hugh Catholic Church | Reception Venue: Villa Woodbine | Bridesmaid's Dresses: Bari Jay | Bistro Lights, Love Seat, Props: Unearthed Vintage | Bride's Dress: Reem Acra | Day of Stationary: Umbrella Tree Design | Flower Girl Dresses: Seahorse- Watters | Groom's Tux: Sandro | Linens & Coordination: Leyani | Pontiac GTO: Miami Vintage Prop Cars | Rolls Royce: Melian Limousines & Antiques