Lovely is a word that we tend to use a lot at SMP. It just has the nicest ring to it, and it’s a word you feel when you say. Don’t you agree? Well from this moment forward, whenever I think of the word lovely, I’ll think of this New Hampshire wedding from Angela Klempner Photography. Because it just embodies the word, and couldn’t be more charming if it tried – and you can catch every moment right here.

From Angela Klempner Photography… Just over the Massachusetts border sits the quaint town of Rindge, New Hampshire. Elizabeth and Michael were married in a field at The Meeting School – a former boarding school turned into a working farm CSA. So much of their heart and souls were poured into this event. The maid of honor, Sarah, put together beautiful floral bouquets. Mason jars, homemade table cards, and fresh flowers in different stained glass vases adorned the tables in the decorated barn. White lights and Chinese lanterns hung from the rafters, but what really got me were the paper cranes. 1,000 paper cranes, to be exact.

When Elizabeth was a little girl she had a fascination with origami. She told her mother one day that she was determined to fold 1,000 paper cranes. Her small, ambitious hands grew tired and she was hundreds shy of her goal but slowly forgot about the idea. And then on her wedding day her mother gave her the sweetest gift a mother could give. She had spent months before the wedding folding these cranes for Elizabeth, and on June 15, 2013, she hung 1,000 paper cranes from the rafters of the barn where Elizabeth and Michael had their wedding reception. It was a truly incredible sight.

Elizabeth and Michael’s wedding was joyful, peaceful, and truly beautiful. Everyone chipped in to make the day a success. Musically inclined friends played acoustic tunes for the ceremony music. A close friend of the family baked the cake. The groom’s mother coordinated the decorations, and the bride herself made the dinner for her guests! This day is proof that friends and family can pull together to make a most spectacular wedding! [dotted] Wedding Photography: Angela Klempner Photography | Flowers: By Maid of Honor Sarah Strain | Event Planning: By the family | Wedding Venue: The Meeting School, Rindge New Hampshire | Bride’s Shoes: Torpatoffen King Of Clogs, Sweden | Wedding Dress: Urban Outfitters + Lace Pull Over | Cake: Homemade by friend and local baker, Emily Langer

I love this wedding. I know that’s a bold opening statement, but it’s true, and when you love someone (or some wedding) you should tell them. The bride designed a romantic affair centered around her love of all things vintage and all books, and Orangerie Events was the talented planner to put it all together. If your heart needs a little warming this morning, make sure to visit the gallery from Brett & Jessica!

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From the planner… Your eyeballs might pop out of your head after you look at how amazing the details are from Amy and Thomas’ wedding on Amy’s family farm in North Carolina. Amy is a high school English teacher and knew from the day she started planning her wedding that her love for all things vintage and reading would be the foundation for her wedding design.

Even before the wedding day, Amy set the tone for her wedding with her stationery. Custom “Bingo” card Save the Dates were sent to guests. For the invitations, Amy and Thomas decided to design them to look like vintage library cards. Guests were in for a visual treat from the moment they arrived to the family farm on the wedding day. The ceremony site was created using vintage church pews adorned with hanging greenery and handmade pillows. As a backdrop for the altar, the bride created a backdrop using pages from vintage books. A welcome table was topped with an antique scrapbook for the guest book and custom programs. Guests were given cones made from sheet music and filled with lavender to toss onto the couple as they exited as husband and wife.

The bride looked stunning while carrying a bouquet designed with a dark color palette and wrapped with a black and white stripped ribbon and adorn with an antique heart-shaped locket. Thomas wore a boutonniere wrapped with sheet music. Even the podium used by the ceremony readers and officiant was handmade by the bride’s father.

Moving onto the cocktail hour, guests enjoyed chocolate dipped waffle cones and appetizers on the property’s dock overlooking the pond. The waitstaff fit the part by wearing bowties and suspenders and using antique serving trays. A custom seating chart was hanging from a post to direct the guests to their seat for the dinner portion of the reception. As guests moved onto the reception, one long table set for 75 people awaited them. Each place setting featured an antique fork place card holder notating the seating assignments. The tables were decorated using ivory table runners, antique books, floral arrangements, vintage salt and pepper shakers, porcelain dog figurines and vintage bells.

Not wanting to leave out the younger attendants, the bride’s mother’s dining room table was turned into the kid’s table. Each kid had a personalized meal in a kraft box at their seat and as decor, cookie jars filled with animal crackers, popcorn and oreos was used. In lieu of a traditional wedding cake, friends and family brought various desserts which were put on display on an antique table. A china cabinet was used to display the cake plates and china.

Following dinner, guests moved onto another area on the farm for lawn games including a Rook table, corn hole and croquette. The bride’s father built a fire pit complete with a vintage mantle and church pews were used to create a relaxing seating area complete with custom decor pieces and a basket with blankets and shawls. Guests were encouraged to take their pictures for the couple’s scrapbook by standing in front of the elementary school chalkboard. The couple left their reception to a shower of confetti.

Every detail of this wedding was meticulously planned and I am so beyond grateful to have been able to coordinate such an incredible day for a loving couple who are beautiful both on the outside and inside.

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Photography: Brett & Jessica | Flowers: Brides & Bouquets | Event Design: Amy Plant, Bride | Event Planning: Orangerie Events | Venue: Family Farm in North Carolina | Catering: Belle’s Catering | Rentals: Classic Party Rentals | Invitations: Yes Dear, Studio | Vintage Decor: Plume Rentals

I swear this rehearsal dinner doesn’t need a description, I could just stare at the gorgeous images all day (that Kevin Chin is a genius I tell you). Designed and styled by the talented Nancy Liu Chin, I’m thinking this jewel-tone inspired palette needs to be everywhere. EVERYWHERE! Bonus: the beauty doesn’t stop here, there’s more in the gallery for future viewing pleasure. And in case you were looking for rehearsal dinner tips, be sure to check out Nancy’s suggestions below (the girl is a wealth of knowledge).

From Nancy… This inspirational photo shoot for couples looking for fun filled ideas for their rehearsal dinner has it all. My secret formula for a great rehearsal dinner is to make things cheerful and fun. I personally love spaces with a bit of character and personality which always make for a memorable evening, even better, a place where a couple had their first date or a memorable celebration(it just so happens that our models who are a real couple got engaged at Colony Palms Hotel which was the venue that opened their venue to us.

The Colony Palms Hotel in Palm Springs is designed by the renowned interior guru, Martyn Lawrence- Bullard designer(yes, that Martyn of Million Dollar Decorators). The Purple Palm restaurant was chosen for our perfect “diner venue”. A well decorated restaurant like the Purple Palm is a great backdrop that needs very little to shine.

My next advise for planning a rehearsal dinner is to choose a color palette that highlights the venue. In this case, bright summer colors worked wonderful with the Purple Palm decor.

By keeping your florals simple, you won’t break the bank. In this case, we used bright magenta stock, bright chartreuse and purple hued foliages, succulents, maidenhair fern, vines in bright glass that can easily be found at home good stores like Pier 1, Crate and Barrel or Target.

As for the stationery suite, Anne Millett of Mira Aster created so many amazing pieces. Since a Rehearsal Dinner is often just close family and the wedding party, we felt that it was important to make them feel special. From the hanging mobile to the stitched invitations, everything was kept simple and personalized which we felt was the key to the Rehearsal dinner as often this is the first time parents from each side are meeting. We also wanted fun and relaxed touches like the same printed fabric on the table number, menu and place cards — it just integrates the whole look.

One of my favorite things from the entire shoot was the way we made the space our own by renting linens from La Tavalo. Since a Rehearsal dinner is often smaller than a wedding, we went to our local Target to find pillows, colored acrylic glassware to make the venue which in this case was a restaurant our own. Pillows, glassware, china can all be rentable —- I love adding things that will make others feel welcomed…. because it’s the night before your big day and everyone needs a night to unwind, to enjoy, to cherish.

To keep things simple and fun, we leave our guests with simple boxes with succulents which they can replant when they get home. Yet another way for guests to remember the evening.

We hope you enjoy our tips for making a Rehearsal dinner easy

To Recap

1) Pick a place that speaks to you — especially one that has a special meaning to you, the bride and groom
2) Create simple floral designs with lots of great foliage, easy to find flowers placed in colorful containers so you don’t break the bank.
3) Personalize details to make the most important of guests feel welcomed, choose interesting ways to present the place cards, escort, menus
4) Spruce up the venue and make it a place of your own (e.g. bring in inexpensively glassware, rentable runners and colorful pillows to name a few ideas.)
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Photography: Kevin Chin | Floral and Event Design: Nancy Liu Chin Designs | Stationery Suite: Anne Millett of Mira Aster | Runner and Napkins: La Tavola | Favors: mini succulents found at Lowe’s | Table numbers and Place Cards: Anne Millett of Mira Aster  | Pillows: Target | China: Target | Glassware: Target

There are few weddings that have me from the get-go, but this Baltimore beauty stole my heart in three seconds flat. With the most gorgeous green palette and feminine details for as far as the eye can see, this “I do” has every component for the ultimate day. L Hewitt Photography is to thank for these pinch-me-perfect captures, and that gorgeous stationery set? Crafted by the ever-so-talented Julie Song Ink. And for all that and so much more, head to the full gallery right over here.

And the wedding day film from Shaking Hands Productions? A TOTAL must.

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From the Bride…When reflecting on the entire day, and all of the events that lead up to this fantastic culmination, I am so happy and thankful to say that the most beautiful memory I hold is of our ceremony and the vows we made to each other. Choosing to write our own vows was a choice that I will never stop being thankful that we made. My husband’s vows were breathtaking and full of undeniable love, and I have replayed them in my mind a hundred times over. Adam summed it up beautifully and succinctly just after the ceremony ended, saying to me, “That was the best thing I have ever done”.

One of the most gratifying decisions we made was asking Adam’s father to officiate our ceremony. He surprised us by asking all of our parents to contribute in writing the service; their words were heartfelt, moving and deeply personal, leaving very few dry eyes in attendance. During the ceremony, he allowed us to take a quiet moment to turn and face our guests, and feel all of the love surrounding us in this monumental moment. We will never forget that feeling, and will cherish that memory forever.

Walking in to our venue, I was overwhelmed with happiness as I saw the seemingly endless details I had planned so carefully come to fruition. As an insufferable perfectionist, I found it impossible to delegate even the smallest tasks to friends and family; every second of effort was worth it in the end. The flowers and decor were more stunning than I had ever dreamt they would be, and the result was breathtaking. I was overwhelmed with how beautiful and handsome our wedding party looked; seeing the suits and romantic, summery bridesmaid dresses in shades of my favorite color come to fruition was beyond exciting.

Some of my fondest memories of our day were courtesy of the wonderful loved ones that shared it with us. I have never seen a group of people from many different walks of life have more fun together, laugh or dance as harder, or exude as much love as our guests. Many guests exclaimed that it was the most fun party they had ever attended, and that was everything Adam and I could have hoped for in the end.

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Photography: L Hewitt Photography | Floral Design: Intrique Designs | Coordination: Diana Venditto, Eventi Planning | | Invitations + Stationery: Julie Song Ink | Venue: Evergreen Museum | Catering: Chef’s Expressions | Music: Mike Bell, MyDeejay Inc. | Furniture Rental: Rusty Love Vintage Rentals | Photobooth: SmileBooth | Cinematography: Shaking Hands Productions | Transportation: Martin’s Limousines & ZBest Limousines | Hair + Makeup: Alison Harper and Company | Wedding Dress: Coco by Hayley Paige | Bride’s Shoes + Bridesmaids’ Fans: BHLDN | Tux: Men’s Wearhouse

East coast elegance is basically defined by this Southampton stunner captured (beautifully, I might add) by Patricia Kantzos Photography. It’s anything and everything that has ever described the perfect east coast fête wrapped up in one gorgeous post. With it’s simple yet sophisticated vibe and classic yet fresh feel, I’ll go as far as to say it’s completely perfect. Actually, it definitely is. See it all here.

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From Patricia… I love everything about Whitney and Sim’s wedding. It’s elegant, fun and filled with gorgeous details. When we met to discuss their wedding photography, Whitney & Sim expressed that being near the ocean in Southampton set the tone for their wedding day. They wanted to keep things simple and free of formalities. They hoped to achieve the same with their photography. They wanted to tell the narrative of their day in a way that was real and true. Capturing the fun was key.

I was thrilled when Whitney explained she understood the importance of working with natural light. We organized the day’s photography around the most beautiful available light. I also love that Whitney embraced the elements of nature. Being near the beach, there was no getting away from wind. We took advantage of this gift from nature. Whitney is gorgeous. Her simple makeup, wind swept hairstyle and fluid wedding dress was perfect. The result was something magical – you can see it in every image. [dotted]

Photography: Patricia Kantzos Photography | Ceremony Venue: Dune Church Southampton, New York | Reception Venue: Meadow Club Southampton, New York | Floral Design: Sag Harbor Florist | Event Coordination: Margot Louthan | Invitations: Shine Invitation |Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin | Bride’s Jewelry: Rent the Runway | Bridesmaids’ Dresses + Groomsmen Jackets: Rent the Runway | Hair + Makeup: Hair by Rachael | Rentals: Party Rental LTD | Saxon Band: John Doboe | Accomodations: South Hampton Inn | Childcare: Easthampton Babysitters

I’ve only ever visited the pretty little city of St. Augustine once in my lifetime, but that’s pretty much all it took to become seriously smitten.  It’s the kind of place where time stands still and classic meets romantic weddings go to be celebrated.  Weddings like this darling affair from Anna Shackleford, a stunning soiree with bundles of beautiful blooms from The Conservatorie, a rainbow palette of pastels and a breathtaking White Room setting.  Prepare to get your pretty on and join me in the gallery for sooo much more.

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From Anna K. Photography… Immediately following college Mary-Kate and Nick moved to Historical St. Augustine, Florida and fell completely in love. Nick works for the School for the Deaf and the Blind and Mary-Kate works in an art gallery nestled in the historic district. Their wedding day was filled with ethereal touches that seemed to just glow. The pastel colors, along with the gorgeous oak trees and the bright Florida sun truly set the tone for the day when they first saw each other on the campus of the School for the Deaf and Blind. Immediately following their ceremony everyone loaded up onto trolley’s and headed for the White Room located in the heart of the historical district, right next to the well known Fort.

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Photography: Anna Shackleford | Ceremony Venue: Chapel at the School for the Deaf and Blind | Reception Venue: The White Room | Officiant: Gardner Gordan | Wedding Coordination: Andrea Famiglietti of Coastal Celebrations | Floral Design: Amy Armstrong of The Conservatorie | Cake: Publix Bakery | DJ: James with McGee Entertainment | Hair + Makup: Debbie’s Spa and Salon | Wedding Dress: David’s Bridal | Bridesmaids Dresses: Susiewear on Etsy | Men’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse | Paper Products: Gamage Print Shop

My first trip to Laguna Beach was seriously epic; one of those moments that was sooo filled with beauty (clear blue skies, crashing waves, the wonderful salty air), it’s impossible to forget.  It was in that moment that I happily decided that someday I would most definitely say “I do” in this California paradise, and if I had to choose exactly what it would look like, it would be this breathtaking day from Sara and Rocky Photography.  Because this wedding?  This amazing love-filled day?  It’s Laguna Beach perfection with lush blooms from Flowerwild, beauty by TEAM Hair & Makeup and the fab stylings of Jill LaFleur and LaFleur Weddings.  But– before you head to the full gallery be sure and watch their totally wonderful highlight film from Couture Motion. A story and vows that will surely warm your hearts!

Montage Laguna Beach Wedding: Joey & Anabel from Couture Motion on Vimeo.

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From Sara and Rocky Photography… Anabel and Joey were married on April 6 in Laguna Beach at The Montage.  The night before, they held a campfire on the beach.  The wedding was beautiful!  They are both from Dallas, as well as their families, so this was a ‘destination’ wedding for them.  The ceremony and reception were small, but beautiful and very well detailed.  They washed each other’s feet during the ceremony.  It was such a joy to work with the both of them.

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Photography: Sara and Rocky Photography | Venue: The Montage Laguna Beach | Event Design + Planning: Jill with LaFleur Weddings | Floral Design: Flowerwild | Calligraphy: Abany Bauer, Brown Linen Designs | Rentals: Found Rentals + Casa de Perrin | Cinematography: Couture Motion | Hair + Makeup: TEAM Hair & Makeup

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
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TEAM Hair and Makeup

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Is it just me or do coral peonies never ever get old? The second I spot those suckers I’m totally done for and I have a feeling I’m not the only one. These florals by Oak and the Owl  have Team Coral Peony written all over them. A blanket of pretty blooms, green foliage and classic details. The kind that also never grow old as seen through the lens of Lane Dittoe. Have a look here for so much more.

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From the Groom: We wanted a DIY wedding because both of us are creative souls: Carol is a wedding photographer, Carolly Photography, and I am a fiction writer. We had a very particular (and admittedly abstruse) vision for our wedding: we were attracted to the romanticism of Victorian gardens, but also desired the glamour of art deco ornamentation. The seed for this ambition was planted by the engagement ring itself, a custom piece that exemplifies an antique deco design but is set with an 1800s European-cut diamond.

The subtle marriage of the two aesthetics can be seen throughout the details of the wedding: soft tones, herringbone, and floral arrangements were complemented with brilliant golds, chevrons, and pure lines. The theme extended to the juxtaposition of Carol’s dress, a delicate and classically English design by Claire Pettibone, and my tuxedo, a bold but smartly modernized cut from Indochino. The escort cards were adorned with gold and ceramic animal miniatures that evoked at once the lavishness of the deco ethos and the fascination of Victorian curios and pictorial dictionaries. In addition to the animal miniatures, we chose the fox, a personal favorite, as a couple’s motif throughout our details: it served as the dual emblem on the back of our program, a pair of figurines for our sweetheart table, and cuff links for my shirt.

Our DIY approach was most evident in the stationery: Carol designed the invitations, programs, and menus from scratch, hand-painted the floral logo and accents, and wrote all the calligraphy herself. Likewise, many of the decorative details of the day were personally handmade, including the cake topper and the Mr. and Mrs. sweetheart signs; the rest were either self-curated or supplied by our wonderful florist Oak and the Owl.

All told, we spent a few hundred hours on wedding planning and preparation, which far exceeded our expectations. Thankfully, the outcome far exceeded our expectations, too. We wanted a DIY wedding to represent our creativity and passion, but also wanted to ensure that each detail had a purpose in attracting and entertaining our guests. Our greatest satisfaction lies in knowing that our wedding has become a cherished memory not only for us but also for all our family and friends.

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Photography: Lane Dittoe  | Florist: Oak and the Owl | Venue: Santa Barbara Historical Museum | Rentals: Ventura Party Rentals | Linens: La Tavola | Caterer: Lorraine Lim Catering | Coordinator: Lilly Tokuyama | DJ: Jack Hou, TMMPRO | Makeup + Hair: Theresa Huang Makeup & Hair Design | Bride’s Dress: Claire Pettibone | Bride’s Veil: Esther Wu, friend of the bride | Bride’s Jewelry: BHLDN + Anthropologie | Bridesmaid Dresses: ModCloth | Groom’s Tuxedo: Indochino

As a wedding blogger, I get to spend my days immersed in a beautiful world filled with stunning celebrations and endless details. And anytime I see a row of maids perfectly coiffed and coordinated, I know exactly who to thank for that gorgeousness: Donna Morgan. Known for incredible collections of bridesmaids styles, and now, Little White Dresses, Donna Morgan offers a candy store of colors and fabrics which are perfect for mix and matching or standing on their own! Take a peek below for just a sneak peek of the pretty party!

Season after season, Donna Morgan brings us gorgeous styles and colors, and the Fall 2013 collection is no exception! Offering gorgeous, long chiffon styles such as the Lily, Rachel and Stephanie as well as the adorable short + strapless Sarah, in a rich palette of jewel tones, you can be sure your maids will be dressed to impress on your big day! New to the collection, Donna Morgan is offering chic chiffon shawls which are available to compliment each dress! LOVE that!

And for the bride who’s determined to wear white all weekend, from rehearsal dinner to cake cutting, don’t miss the new Little White Dress collection filled to the brim with gorgeous frocks! From short to long, playful to chic, they’ve thought of it all. So head over here, my dears, to see the full collection and start shopping for your ladies — and yourself! xo

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I’m totally digging the concept behind this next feature. By matching your outfit to your affair you’re more or less guaranteed to win the title of the hostess with the mostest. Designed by Boutique Bites and captured by Carasco Photography, this vibrant and sparkly affair is just the pick me up I’m looking for. For more girly inspiration, you might want to spend some time in the gallery.

From Boutique Bites… I’m the owner and culinary style director of Chicago-based luxury catering company Boutique Bites. Apart from my catering company, I produce a lifestyle video series called Fashion to Fork, which is focused on styling everything from yourself to your spread for fabulously fashionable entertaining at home. This particular shoot is the third in my series entitled “Girly & Glam: A Girl’s Night in Garden Party”. The party colors were pink and gold and we made everything from the tassel streamers to the menu signage.

For my party attire, I wanted to incorporate gold and lots of sparkle. I’m wearing Badgley Mischka’a Fifth Avenue Showstopper Dress from Rent the Runway, Kate Spade Karolina Pumps, and a Zara necklace to complete the look.

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Photography: Carasco Photography | Cinematography: Emily Hard Films | Event Design & Food: Boutique Bites | Linen: Private Label Linens | Makeup: Andie Cumber Makeup | Dress: Badgley Mischka | Shoes: Kate Spade | Necklace: Zara

Hailing straight from Hayley at Taste Catering‘s pantry, these manchego and quince skewers are just a small example of what you’d expect to see on their menu. One part savoury, one part sweet, with just a touch of fancy, these little numbers are sure to be a hit at your next event. And because we kind of adore all things Hayley, we’re doing a pretty intense interview with her over on our Little Black Book. Who knows, you might just learn a thing or two (or six, in my case). 

Jacquelyn ClarkManchego & Quince Skewers with Marcona AlmondsA fabulous appetizer that is sure to please the crowd

prep time 10 Minute/s

cook time 10 Minute/s

total time 20 Minute/s

Serves 10Ingredients

• 1/2 lb. Manchego Cheese
• 1/4 lb. Quince Paste (firm)
• 1/4 cup Marcona Almonds
• 1/4 bunch of Italian Parsley
• 10 Japanese Picks
• 1 oz. Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Instructions

1. Pick 20 small Parsley leaves.
2. Chop Marcona Almonds finely
3. Cube Firm Quince Paste into 1/2 inch cubes. Note: you will need 2 cubes per pick.
4. Roll each cube in almonds.
5. Cut cheese in 1/2 inch cubes. Note: you will need 2 cubes of each per pick.
6. Skewer quince, parsley leaf , cheese, quince, parsley, cheese.
7. Drizzle with your favorite extra virgin olive oil and enjoy!
8. NOTE: Can be made 2-3 hours ahead, covered with plastic and refrigerated.

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Photography & Recipe: Taste Catering

We were sitting around the SMP offices the other day loving on our lovely LBBers and a thought struck us. We have this book filled with the best of the best. You guys are hiring them to make your weddings the most beautiful, yummy, fun, well lit weddings imaginable. But why aren’t we sharing their expertise with the masses? Well, today that ends. For those of you who aren’t in the San Fran area, you’re in luck, because we have expert Hayley Seed of Taste Catering & Event Planning here answering your catering questions. And for those of you in the SF area, you may just want to take note of Hayley’s number. Because she’s phenomenal.

We’ve got a ridiculously delicious recipe of Hayley’s on SMP Living right now. Don’t miss it! And now, here’s Hayley…

We’re thinking of having a buffet style dinner to keep costs low. What suggestions do you have for avoiding pile-ups at a buffet or standing stations?

To avoid pile up at the buffet, keep the menu simple (no more than five items). The more items the guests have to serve themselves, the longer the buffet will take. Also, make sure you have enough buffet lines. I recommend one line per 50 guests. So if you have 100 guests, you will have two buffets.

What is an ideal timeline for dinner courses?

My ideal timeline would allow for two hours for three courses with four toasts, so:
7:00pm – Guests are invited to take their seats for dinner.
7:15pm – Welcome Toast (usually by the Father of the Bride or the hosts; this toast is generally fairly brief, try to keep it under three minutes!).
7:18pm – The First Course is served.
7:35pm – More toasts, this time from the Best Man and Maid of Honor (try to limit to five minutes each).
7:45pm – Staff will clear your First course; and get ready for the entrée.
8:00pm – The Entrée is served!
8:25pm – Time for the Cake Cutting.
8:30pm – The Entrée is cleared, and we get readt for cake.
8:45pm – Let them eat cake!
8:55pm – It’s Final Toast time, or invite guests for the first dances.

Should I offer a vegetarian and/or vegan option alongside meat entrees?

Short answer: Yes. If you are taking entrée orders in your RSVP card, you should include vegetarian as an option. If you are not taking orders and plan to just offer one entrée on-site, just make sure your caterer is prepared with a vegetarian option available by request. We are typically prepared with 10% vegetarian options on-site to accommodate guest requests at the event. In terms of vegan, to keep things simple, I like to offer a vegan entrée over a vegetarian entrée such as: Roasted Piquillo Peppers stuffed with Artichoke & Farro Caponata, Summer Succotash of Iacopi Butter Beans, Brentwood Sweet Corn, Star Route Favas, Toy Box Squash & Bloomsdale Spinach. Offering a vegan entrée will also take care of anyone who has a lactose allergy.

What should I plan on my caterer being responsible for when it comes to set up, break down, etc?

Taste is a full-service catering company so we typically handle the rental of, set-up and breakdown of tables, linens, chairs and tabletop settings. We also handle clean up (sweeping, mopping, ect) of the venue and ensure that the venue rules are followed per your contract. Taste also has a liquor license and we will handle the bar service and set-up (such as all of the glassware, ice, bar equipment, bartenders, garnishes, ect).

What are stylish and tasty options to serve guests for appetizers and entrees what won’t break the bank?

I think chicken entrees are really underrated. Chicken prepared well can be the most satisfying and delicious meal (and the most cost effective entrée option). One of my favorites is a Chicken Saltimbocca. We use Mary’s Organic Chicken and stuff it with a Sundried Tomato Pesto & Baby Spinach and serve it on a bed Farro-Sunflower Pilaf, Baby Zucchini & Carrots with a Basil Jus. It is colorful, artful and delicious!

Should I plan on everyone wanting a piece of cake?

If you are serving cake as a plated course at the dining table, then yes you definitely want to make sure there is a piece for everyone. If cake is being served on a buffet and there are other desserts available, then I would assume cake for 80%.

What’s a reasonably small add-on that has the biggest impact on making my guests feel spoiled?

If you are having a sit-down dinner, I think starting the meal off with a lovely Amuse Bouche (just a little bite of something special). Something like a Champagne Gelee with Page Mandarin Consommé and Pomegranate Seeds served on a porcelain spoon or a Demitasse of chilled Frog Hollow Peach Soup with Champagne Float & Tarragon Cream. If you are planning a buffet dinner, I would add beverage service at the table (so your guests only have to get up to go through the buffet), it’s always nice to be waited on.

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Thank you SO much Hayley! Such great insight from such a talented chef. Is it dinner time yet? If you’ve got more questions for Hayley, please leave them in the comments. And keep an eye out for our next expert… we’ll be asking for your questions on our LBB Facebook and LBB Twitter!

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Photography: Kate Webber Photography | Food, Flowers and event design: Taste Catering & Event Planning

When bloggers become brides, we get all sorts of giddy. Not just because their weddings tend to be some of the best (can you say, style for miles?) but because celebrating the Big Day of a fellow friend in the blogosphere is something really special. And today we’re raising our glasses — err, coffee mugs — to the fabulous Jenna of Eat, Live, Run. Along with the help of Eventfully Yours’ and Astrid Photography, this super stylish foodie managed to pull off one of the cutest country-chic days EVER. Oh, and in case you want more (we know you do!) you can find it all waiting right here.

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From Astrid… Jenna, the famous food and lifestyle blogger of Eat Live Run and author of “White Jacket Required :: A Culinary Coming-of-Age Story” married her best friend, Adam on May 25, 2013 at the brand new Austin, Texas venue Pecan Springs Ranch. It was like walking right into a land of retro-vintage furniture, wild flowers, cowgirl boots, and of course all organic, locally grown food. From her blissfully sweet short wedding dress, to the hand painted signs, the details and thought put into this wedding made Jenna + Adam’s vision come together perfectly.

From the Bride, Jenna….The theme we embraced for our wedding was somewhere between casual Texas ranch and vintage chic. I had grown up loving the Little House on the Prairie books, and had always envisioned an outdoor prairie-like ceremony for my big day. I envisioned burlap, lace, reclaimed wood and vintage bottles holding brightly colored wildflowers on all the tables. Nothing too fancy — just simple and enjoyable. I knew the moment I walked into Pecan Springs Ranch that it was perfect for us. At that time, the venue was still under construction but I loved the owner’s vision for the place and knew it matched our own. All of the vintage rentals came from the venue and were the icing on the cake. All of the wooden signs were handmade by my mother in law out of reclaimed wood found on their East Texas property, except for the Eat Local Organic one, which was made by me. For my dress, I wanted something simple and something I could move in. To be honest, I was much more concerned about the food than the dress! When I found my dress online, I knew instantly that it was the one and it fit perfectly right out of the box. My grandmother gave me her cherished pearl earrings to complete the look. Our guests noshed on gourmet comfort food — organic, free-range roast chicken, macaroni and cheese with brie, dates and bacon, roasted heirloom carrots and brown butter cornbread. At the last minute, all electricity was lost so we just lit hundreds of candles and danced the night away, as the soft Texas breeze whispered in through open doors. It was truly a night to remember; a night full of good friends, laughter, love and delicious food. What more could I ask for? [dotted]

Wedding Photography: Astrid Photography | Bride: Jenna Weber of Eat Live Run | Wedding Venue: Pecan Springs Ranch | Floral Design + Wedding Planner: Christine Seiler of Eventfully Yours’ | Catering: Royal Fig Catering | Cake: Hailey Lange of Cecelia’s Austin | Cinematography: Abby Pound | Ceremony Programs: The Memory Trunk | Wedding Dress: There is Only You and Me exclusively via BHLDN | Bride’s Shoes: Corral, Vintage | Bride’s Necklace by BHLDN | Earrings: Grandmother’s Pearl Earrings | Men’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse | Bridesmaid’s Dresses: BHLDN | Bridesmaids’ Gifts: Stella & Dot Rhea Bangles + Noonday Collection Bone Carved Leaf Earrings + FashionABLE scarves | Groomsmen’s Gifts: Ties, Shirts, Pocket Silks via Men’s Wearhouse | Vintage Props + Furniture: Pecan Springs Ranch | Band: The Pearl Tones | Makeup: Morgan Stephanian

Believe it or not, I often find it hard to find words that are worthy of the weddings that grace the pages of SMP. For instance, this vintage meets bohemian gorgeous-fest from Luma Photo. How could you every possibly put words to something this pretty? The truth is, you truly can’t – but thankfully words aren’t even needed to pour through all the stunning images sitting in this gallery. Take time to do so here.

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From the Bride… Our wedding was planned over two years and so the theme evolved with time. What remained consistent was a soft vintage/bohemian-chic theme and to be surrounded by the things and people we love. We achieved this by creating a space at our reception that was filled with vintage items from our home including a vintage suitcase for cards, a vintage world globe, candle holders, vintage books and a typewriter for our guests to leave us messages. We also took the time to collect black and white vintage wedding portraits of our parents and grandparents, frame them in white baroque frames that we collected and spray painted ourselves and displayed them at our wedding. This was especially poignant as my grandparents couldn’t be with us on the night. It was our way of including them and celebrating the long and happy marriages of generations past.

We were inspired to create our vintage/bohemian-chic wedding using neutral colours to keep the atmosphere elegant and very romantic. Soft pinks, champagnes, gold trimmings, ivory and grays inspired our choice of flowers, décor and our outfits. We incorporated romantic fabrics like lace and tulle for my dress, my bridesmaids and the flower girls. These colours helped to inspire my dress. I couldn’t find a dress that I loved and after a few weeks of searching for a wedding dress, they all began to look the same. I wanted something unique and decided to start by picking a fabric that was a mushroom-champagne colour with a subtle pink hue. To keep the look ethereal, dress maker Mathieu Salem suggested lace and tulle. The best thing about working with Mathieu Salem is that he knows the female form well, is very patient and is happy to work with you to design your dress. The end result was a multi-layered tulle skirt with an intricate lace bodice. I had even more trouble finding dresses for my bridesmaids as they were all different shapes and sizes and I wanted them to feel comfortable. I chose to have my bridesmaids in the same colour as me and found a beautiful lace dress from BHLDN that fit them all! I highly recommend BHLDN for bride’s who want a vintage/bohemian styled wedding. Unfortunately there is no BHLDN store in Australia but you can buy online. My hairpiece, which I chose to wear in lieu of a tradition veil was also purchased from BHLDN and will make a lovely family heirloom!

Walking through the Botanic Gardens for our photographs after the ceremony, I felt like an ethereal princess; bohemian-chic hair and make-up and a full skirted tulle dress trailing behind and my handsome prince! Looking at our photos by the lovely couple Marieke and Luke from Luma Photo, it looks like we were strolling through the woods. We felt so relaxed and comfortable which was important to us because neither of us really likes to be photographed.

My best tip for brides who don’t know where to start is to choose your colour pallet first so that you can take it with you when you choose your dress, jewelry, flowers, bridesmaids dresses, cake, invitations and place cards. Also, having an event planner was not in our budget. Try DIY, using items you already have at home or venturing online to find unique items that will suit your budget. Etsy comes highly recommended for vintage, bohemian or DIY brides!

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Wedding Photography: Luma Photo | Ceremony Venue: St James Catholic Church, Gardenvale | Reception Venue: The Royce Hotel, St Kilda Road, Melbourne | Floral Design: Bud Flowers, High Street Armadale | Wedding Cake: Cakes of Distinction, Avondale Heights | Invitations, Ceremony Programs, Place Tags, + Typewriter: Etsy | Wedding Dress: Mathieu Salem, High Street Armadale | Bride’s Headpiece + Bridesmaids’ Dresses: BHLDN | Bride’s Shoes: Alan Pinkus | Groom’s Suit: Canali |Flower Girl Dresses: Monsoon | Hair + Makeup: Living Dolls, Melbourne | Cars: Mustangs in Black | Chairs: Tiffany Chairs in Lime Wash via Dann Event Hire | Candle Holders: BHLDN | Decanters: A Vintage Affair | Table Number Design: The Wedding Chicks | “Wishing Well” Vintage Suitcase: Industrial Revolution, High Street, Armadale

Weddings like this one just need to be celebrated.  Like with a virtual dance party and confetti.  Because anytime you combine sweet classic details with a touch of modern whimsy (hello chevron stripes), it’s cause for some serious festivities.  Throw in the fab stylings of Event of the Season, a breathtaking Santa Barbara setting and a bride and groom who will literally make your heart melt and it’s an entire gallery of gorgeous captured by Jessica Lewis Photography.  Join me there for all of the pretty.

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From Jessica Lewis Photography… Jennifer and Alex were married on October 19, 2012 at Montecito Country Club, in Santa Barbara. I loved this wedding, one of my favorite images of jennifer is when I was shooting down on her from the balcony in the main hall with her beautiful Vera Wang gown surrounding her.  And one of the cutest moments took place during the first glance when Jennifer started crying – so sweet, and just after the wedding as they walked down the aisle – love it!

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Photography: Jessica Lewis Photography | Event Design + Planning: Event of the Season | Floral Design: Grass Roots | Ceremony Music: Jeffery Peters | Hair + Makeup: Mishay Salon | Cinematography: Skyline Videography | Cake: Christine Dahl Cakes | Music: Bonnie and Company | Officiant: Dusty Hoesl

This wedding had me at hello.  Well, actually, it had me at hot cocoa bar meets stunning contemporary design meets cozy, warm and fuzzy… but who’s counting?  Because this wedding?  This intimate Chicago affair chock-full of awesome?  It’s amazing.  From the fab stylings of Pistil and Vine to the lovely paper goods from Sarah Drake to the two dapper grooms who just can’t stop smiling, it’s a day that will most definitely leave you feeling all kinds of happy.  Oh, and it’s also super pretty.  See sooo much more captured by Julia Franzosa in the full gallery.

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From Julia Franzosa… Cozy up in this simple, elegant, outdoor ceremony at a private residence in Chicago. This neutral palette of bronze, cream and white is highlighted by the simple, modern decor of this home, the cocoa and sweets bar, modern cube seating, and painted runner and striped invitations. Guests warm up with khaki colored pashminas on the outdoor patio, framed by simple floral branches, and natural wood and stone.

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Photography: Julia Franzosa | Concept and Coordination: Greatest Expectations | Event + Floral Design: Pistil and Vine | Invitations + Paper Products: Sarah Drake | Sweets: Truffle Truffle | Rings: Sarah McGuire + Fibula | Men’s Attire: Black Tie Tuxedo | Officiant: Anita Vaughn | Vintage Prop Rentals: Nimble Well | Seating Rental: Tablescapes

Weddings like this one from A Simple Photograph, warm my heart. Because beyond of all the prettiness, it’s all about the boy and girl who are madly in love. That’s what really stands out. Their love for each other is beautifully obvious in every image, and that’s something the sap in me simply can’t resist. See it all here.

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From Erin… Tracy and Jon were married on a beautiful spring day in Stratford, Ontario.  They held both the ceremony and reception at Stratford’s most renowned venue, The Church Restaurant.  Tracy kept the decor simple and elegant using shades of greys, ivories and a few pale pink touches including an understated tulip bouquet from Perfect Petals adorned with a photo of Tracy’s father.  The bridesmaids wore black lace dresses from Jacob and accessorized them with a single vintage-inspired brooch and  classic black pumps.

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Wedding Photography: A Simple Photograph | Wedding Venue: The Church Restaurant | Wedding Dress: Ivy and Aster | Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Groom’s Attire: Brooks Brothers | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Jacob | Floral Design: Perfect Petals | Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas | Head Piece + Belt: Headmistress

Is there anything more magical in our gorgeous wedding-filled world than an Italian destination soiree? I think not. From the jaw-dropping scenery, romantic ambiance and top-notch food + drink, you can be sure that a wedding in Italy will not disappoint. With so many details to select and decisions to make, you’ll want a wedding expert on your side, especially when you’re planning from across the globe! Look no further than boutique design + planning firm WeddingsInItaly.

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From start to finish, the incredibly talented team at WeddingsInItaly will help make your dream destination wedding a reality — all while making sure you’re stress-free! From location selection (are you thinking Verona, Tuscany, Lake Como, Portofino or the Amalfi Coast?!) and logistical decisions to food and wine tasting and making making sure your “I dos” are legal and binding, WeddingsInItaly has it all covered. Only taking on a small number of events per season, the ladies at WeddingsInItaly make sure they give their clients the most complete and fabulous service possible, helping couples create unique and totally memorable Italian weddings.

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Working with amazing, local vendors and incredible venues and offering seamless coordination and perfectly styled events, it’s clear that the geniuses behind WeddingsInItaly are passionate about what they do. So all that’s left is to get started on planning your dream Italian destination wedding! xo

Event Planning: WeddingsInItaly / Video: Marco Miglianti Studio /  Photography: Carlo Giorgi Associates and Marco Miglianti Studio / Florals:  Tuscany Flowers / Fioridea

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Apparently when you combine the charm of Hill Country with some fabulous vintage styling, you get one drop-dead gorgeous wedding. Because that’s precisely what happened in this little ditty whipped up by Crystal at Style & Grace Events. The images from Al Gawlik Photography make it all that much sweeter (if you can believe it), and it’s all sitting pretty right here.

From Style & Grace Events… Rachelle & Matthew’s wedding was a perfect mix of hill country charm and vintage elegance. They were married under a large oak tree filled with hanging mason jars that were full of brightly colored sunflowers, stock, and roses. Two antique doors were placed on either side of the tree and included their initials made out of baby’s breath. Instead of a traditional unity candle the couple planted a small tree using dirt from each of their mom’s homes to represent both sides of their family becoming one. Vintage touches were included throughout the reception including a complete vintage seating area with antique glider, truck, suitcases, and hanging lace spheres. Black lanterns lined the outside walkway and guests were greeted with a welcome sign made from an antique window. The centerpieces were an eclectic mix of vintage bottle and vases filled with a mix of colorful flowers. The dessert table was designed with antique crates, doilies and chalkboards and the ceremony doors were brought inside to serve as the backdrop. The couple wanted to pay tribute to their Hill Country surroundings by only serving local wines and having each guest take home a handmade sachet filled with local lavender, displayed in a vintage baby bathtub. Finally the couple made their grand exit to handmade ribbon wands completed with bells which each guests waved as they left. [dotted]

Wedding Photography: Al Gawlik Photography | Wedding Design + Styling + Coordination: Crystal Marek of Style & Grace Events | Wedding Venue: Kairos Celebration Barn, Fredericksburg, Texas | Floral Design: WOW Factor Designs | Vintage Rentals: Loot Vintage Rentals | Desserts: Sophie’s Choice | Hair + Makeup: Belle Mariee | DJ: Christian with Altared Weddings | Invitations + Programs: The Paper Place | Bed & Breakfast: The Hoffman Haus | Wedding Gown: Unbridaled | Groom’s Suit: Vera Wang from Men’s Wearhouse

I know I say this time and again, but please promise me you’ll read this darling bride’s sweet description. Promise me.  Because this is one of those weddings that is soooo full of love (high school sweethearts, a father’s enduring strength, a Savannah dream come true), it’s almost impossible to put into words.  And then after you get to know your new bestie (she will be), take a look at every last moment captured by Leeann Ritch Photography.  Because from the very second you lay your eyes on all of the pretty that made up this gorgeous day, you’ll want to spend more than your fair share of time in the gallery.  Join me there for sooo much more.

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From the Bride… Mike and I met during our sophomore year of high school through mutual friends. We hit it off right away, going everywhere together. We went to both proms together, applied to the same colleges, traveled to Europe together, and ended up at the same college.  At the end of our sophomore year in college, we had drifted apart, wanting very different things out of life. We parted ways for a year or so but we decided after that break that we were meant to be and got back together. We have been through the average couple ups and downs and there was no reason to rush marriage or push growing up any faster than we already were… until I turned 30 and it just seemed right. In early December 2012, just before Mike was to go out of town he suggested that we have a date night before he left. At first he wouldn’t tell me the plan but when I guessed the Atlanta Botanical Garden Nights of Lights (Christmas lights are on the top of my “love list” and the botanical gardens are absolutely beautiful year round) I didn’t think much about it at the time but when he suggested that we eat at fountains (a local oyster bar) I was a little confused why he would want to eat bar food before the amazing evening at the botanical gardens. Hours later when I was headed out on some errands, it hit me! Fountains is where we had our first date when we had gotten back together! The evening was perfect and magical and he waited until they had announced that the gardens were closed and everyone headed out… except us, to pop the question.

We immediately decided on Savannah which is like a second home to us and just seemed right. I bounced many ideas of venues and colors off of him but when I suggested Forsyth park, he didn’t see my vision and wanted to know what would we do if it rained, was hot, or cold? I explained that on my first visit to Savannah when I was 10 for girl scouts that we had been driven by the park during a wedding and it was beautiful. I do remember thinking to myself, someday I want that to be me… and I would not care less if it rained as long as I got the fountain in my pictures and could be surrounded by those big beautiful trees and moss. One weekend when he was in town for work, he surprised me with a phone call saying he was at the park watching the set up of someone else’s wedding and that he understood my vision. We got lucky that the park had one opening in the first of May and we took it. We had to move fast to plan our dream wedding with only six months.

I know how fortunate that I am that he helped with the details and had opinions of things because our lives became very interesting during that six month time frame. While in the planning phase, my parents had to move to North Carolina in early January, so that my dad could be placed on the heart transplant list at Duke. My best friend and maid of honer was recovering from multiple surgeries on her ankle (if you are a tall thin women, refrain from playing adult coed soccer- you will break something!). My coworker started chemo for breast cancer (she is just a bit older than me and celebrated her one year wedding anniversary a week after I got married- very upsetting that cancer doesn’t discriminate!). My father had his heart transplant at the end of February and the first month was terrifying but he is a strong man and slowly pulled through. My now sister in law gave birth to her first child in mid March, and then there was the unfortunate passing of Mike’s great grandmother who was 99 years young and had been very healthy and active up until her death. Many times I made the comment that nothing wedding related stressed me out because there was no way for wedding stress to compare to real life stress.

Through it all, I was able to keep it together because of Mike’s love and support (I really did love that he would be honest about things he did and did not like!). In the end, we made it through the planning and down the aisle on May 4. There were more than a few issues that day (it did rain, security was a no-show at the park, my dad fell and hurt himself the night before, and so much more) yet, it is to date, my favorite day of my life and I wouldn’t change a second of it. I have never believed in the idea of soul mates but from the beginning of our relationship, I have said that I didn’t know if we would end up married with kids someday but that I know that we were meant to grow old together. I went and married my best friend.

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Wedding Photography: Leeann Ritch Photography | Second Photographer: Alex Chalkley Photography | Reception Venue: Belford’s Savannah | Floral Design: Kato Floral Design | Cakes: Tier Luxury Cakes | Wedding Dress: Renella de Fina Couture | Bride’s Shoes: Kate Spade | Hair + Makeup: Robs on Drayton | Jewelry: Mucklows Fine Jewelry | Favors: Maison de Macarons (Day of for Family) + Savannah Candy Kitchen (Pralines) | Trolley: Oglethorpe, Gray Line Trolleys | Pedicab: Savannah Pedicab | DJ: The DJ AC | Ceremony Music: New Arts Ensemble | Rentals: Savannah Special Events-Ranco Tent Rentals | Getting Ready Locations: Andaz (Ladies) + The Inn at Ellis Square (Gents) | Rehearsal Dinner: The Olde Pink House | Photo Booth: Most Fun Photo Booth