Style Me Pretty: Wedding Blog for the Style-Obsessed Bride

Seaside Citrus Meets West Coast Cool in This Vibrant Editorial at Bahia Resort

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This editorial shoot was inspired by the citrus color palette and the elusive allure of the sea. The bayside waterfront Bahia Resort of San Diego, California, created an unforgettable destination location. The wedding planning and design team, led by the talented Kaleb Norman James Willis, executed their vision of an effortlessly stylish and natural coastal setting with vibrant citrus hues among the lush tropical foliage. Touches of pale blush, the white sand, and natural California sun added an elevated contrast against the azure water and citrus elements. Inspiration originated from the crispness of the citrus fruits, both visually appealing and evocative of summer freshness, yet contrasted with the ever-changing blue hues of the Pacific Ocean. The team sought to evoke feelings of joy in summertime, exuding a carefree and luxurious tropical vibe. There’s a delicate balance between the invigorating zest of the fruits and the tranquility of the beach, creating an editorial that feels both energizing and soothing. This “seaside citrus” vibe mixed with film photography is sure to create an ethereal experience, which truly has a story to tell!

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Zesty citrus, lemon yellow, tropical lush greens, and accents of pale blush contrasted against the azure waters of the bay

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@bahiaresortsandiego @bahiaresortweddings The bayfront beach at Bahia Resort in San Diego, California, served as the perfect natural backdrop for the ceremony site. The calming hues of blue and sandy shores enhanced the vibrant yellows, oranges, and greens of the citrus color palette. A mix of bright sunlight, bay winds, and a touch of fog off the Pacific created a dynamic yet ethereal atmosphere to set the scene. The reception was located in the gardens of the resort with a stunning head table centerpiece nestled beneath the central gazebo. Every detail from the florals, the place settings, and the pops of lemon came together perfectly. The venue also had other areas directly adjacent to a marina as well as a rocky cove, which added a fun variety to add in some aerial photography to the portrait settings.

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This vintage-inspired wedding dress from The Secret Garden Collection by couture designer Claire Pettibone features delicately unique cotton Leaver’s lace. The floral lace elements mixed with the striped lace truly add a special touch. The feminine A-Line gown cascades to a scalloped edge train, adding an effortless, yet dramatic style perfect for this seaside and garden destination venue. The veil was omitted to truly showcase the designer gown amidst the naturally beautiful setting.

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A delicate mix of yellow, blush, white, and soft greens created a stunning floral aesthetic. The ranunculus, sweet pea, and white irises running the length of the table nestled underneath an arching yellow angel trumpet, native to the resort, provided a naturally stunning reception scene.

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Florals and tablescape by Kaleb Norman James Willis. The dreamy and vibrant citrus florals mixed with the pale blush and pops of blue accents on the head table for the reception were truly stunning. The lush garden with tropical greenery was a beautiful accent for each and every detail.

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This look was executed by an incredible team of wedding vendors! Teamwork makes the dream work.

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Olivia Jones Photography

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A Black Tie Garden Wedding That Balanced Style With Ease at The Court Seaside

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]green, blue, blush pink, and white[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

This wedding was a stunning blend of elegance and whimsy, embodying the perfect black-tie garden party aesthetic. The venue, enveloped in greenery, provided a naturally enchanting backdrop, while soft blue and blush hues added a touch of elegance and whimsy. Guests arrived in chic, colorful attire, creating a vibrant contrast against the lush greenery and timeless sophistication of the event. Every detail was curated to perfectly balance sophistication with a warm, inviting ambiance. The result was a celebration that felt effortlessly stylish, brimming with personality and organic beauty.

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As written by the Groom: I found myself standing in the doorway of a dingy motel room, underneath this flickering hospital hallway lighting, with the sounds of sirens in the distance. As I twisted the lock and pushed the door, I could see a roach scatter into the shadows of what was going to be my home for the next 12 weeks. There are plenty of nice areas in Birmingham, A, L, but this was not one of them. Yet, I was hopeful. I had just completed the first year of my MBA program, excited to start my summer internship. And more excited to see the friendly face of my girlfriend, Ginny, who was to visit in a few weeks for the long Memorial Day weekend. We had been dating for nearly 2 years at the time, with the past 9 months being long-distance while I was attending school just over two hours away. To Ginny’s surprise, our long-distance relationship proved easier than expected, which gave me all of the confidence that she would be okay this summer, now over eight hours from each other. What I didn’t expect was that I would be the one to miss her more. There was a moment after her visit, as I watched her wave goodbye through the back window of her white Toyota Highlander, as I watched the tail lights disappear into the city lights, where I was overcome with emotion. I felt empty, as if my whole world was in that car and it just left me behind. As I write this, I’m so thankful for my time in that dirty, cramped motel room because it allowed me to appreciate how much I loved having Ginny in my life. I knew in that moment that I wanted Ginny to always stay in my life. It was that moment that I knew that I would ask her to marry me. Fast forward a few months, Ginny called me excitedly, eager for encouragement in her decision to run a half-marathon. Having run a few races myself, I suggested that we make a big trip out of it. Searching for races, I found a half-marathon in Paso Robles, California, and knew that was the race for us. Paso Robles was a special place for Ginny’s parents, who had attended the local wine festival every year for 10 years now. Ginny had always talked about visiting, and her parents already planned to be in the area the weekend of the race. With the stars aligning, it would be the perfect time to ask her to marry me. As we started our weekend in Paso Robles, I could tell that Ginny was bursting with anticipation over the surprise itinerary that I was drip-feeding her throughout the day. Our day started with a visit to the beautiful DAOU vineyards, and continued with a tour of the lavish Hearst Castle. With one more stop for the day, we drove down the California coast to a place called Moonstone Beach, known locally for its wonderfully colorful glass-like pebbles. While I was looking for a quiet spot to watch the sunset, open a bottle of wine, and propose to my hopefully soon fiancé, she was excitedly scanning the beach for cool-looking rocks. Little did she know, I already had one picked out for her.

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Her wedding gown effortlessly blends elegance with a touch of modern romance, perfectly suited for a sophisticated beachside celebration and a garden party soirée. The sleek, fitted silhouette, with its structured bodice and flowing train, creates a timeless bridal look. Paired with a delicate cathedral-length veil, this bridal ensemble is the epitome of timeless luxury in a dreamy coastal-meets-garden wedding setting.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bride wanted her bridesmaids to feel like the best version of themselves, allowing them to choose any dress they loved as long as it was colorful. The result was a stunningly diverse mix of hues, textures, and silhouettes, from shimmering satin and soft ruffles to bold floral prints and delicate lace. Each dress reflected the personality and style of the woman wearing it, creating a vibrant yet cohesive look. The mix of pastels, jewel tones, and statement prints captured the joy and individuality of the day, proving that mismatched dresses can be just as breathtaking as a traditional uniformed bridal party.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

The groomsmen donned their black tuxedos, each adding a unique touch with a variety of formal footwear, blending individuality with sophistication. In contrast, the groom stood out in a custom-tailored tuxedo, featuring a striking ivory jacket with black satin lapels. A hidden yet sentimental detail made his ensemble truly one-of-a-kind—his wedding date was delicately embroidered beneath the collar, a timeless keepsake of the special day. This effortless mix of tradition and personal expression made for a stylish and meaningful wedding look.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]The wedding’s culinary experience was nothing short of extraordinary, offering a well-balanced mix of elegance and indulgence. Guests were greeted with a selection of sophisticated passed appetizers, including bacon-wrapped scallops with dragon sauce, mini crab cakes with remoulade, baked brie tarts with pear and crispy prosciutto, and feta crostinis topped with artichoke and balsamic. A refreshing Italian Coastal salad with a light citrus vinaigrette set the stage for an exquisite plated dinner. The main course featured an herb-crusted beef tenderloin draped in merchant demi and chimichurri, alongside fresh grouper with key lime butter. Accompanying the entrées were perfectly roasted tricolor fingerlings and garlic parmesan asparagus. The beverage menu offered a thoughtfully curated selection of domestic and craft beers, high noon, and a variety of wines and prosecco. For cocktail lovers, premium spirits were paired with fresh fruit and mixers, while signature wedding cocktails—a zesty limoncello spritz and a perfectly balanced paloma—added a personalized touch to the celebration. As the night continued, a late-night snack spread of BLT sliders, burger sliders, and espresso martini shots kept the celebration going in style.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The floral and décor for this wedding reception were a breathtaking blend of romance and sophistication, featuring a fresh color palette of green, soft blue, blush pink, and white effortlessly blending with the lush surroundings. Delicate roses, peonies, and trailing jasmine adorned the tables, their fragrant presence enhancing the intimate glow of the candlelit centerpiece, creating an ethereal, garden-like ambiance. White florals enhanced the airy, timeless feel, complementing the rustic charm of wicker accents woven throughout the décor. The floral design was organic and abundant, with natural garden-inspired arrangements that felt effortlessly romantic.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]This exquisite wedding cake is a stunning blend of vintage elegance and modern flavor. Adorned with intricate piping, its delicate swags and pearl-like details evoke a timeless charm. Each tier boasts a unique and unexpected flavor—rosemary olive oil for a subtly herbaceous depth and lemon for a bright, citrusy contrast. Placed at the heart of a beautifully lit reception, the cake served as both a breathtaking centerpiece and a delicious finale to the celebration. Adding to the sentiment, the cake was cut with the same knife used at the bride’s grandparents’ and parents’ weddings, a cherished tradition that made the moment even more meaningful.[/field]
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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

As the bride prepared for her big day, she slipped into a delicate robe passed down from her mother—a cherished heirloom woven with love and memories. The soft satin carried whispers of past generations, making her morning even more special. Her wedding dress, displayed beautifully on a hanger gifted by the groom’s mother, held its sentimental history. The same hanger had been used by the groom’s sister on her wedding day, symbolizing a beautiful connection between families. Every detail of this moment reflected love, tradition, and the blending of two families into one.

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Shelby Peaden Events

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A Whimsical Wedding at Gallison Hall With Butterfly Details and European Countryside Charm

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]White, light blue, and blush
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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Mattie and Jack envisioned a dreamy, European-garden-inspired wedding day in the countryside of Charlottesville, Virginia. When touring venues, one thing that was top of the list was a venue with a wow-factor. Something as unique and special as these two high school sweethearts. It could have been a stunning manor house, breathtaking views of the foothills, or unique architectural details. When they visited Gallison Hall, it captured all three. A tree-lined drive welcomes you into the grand Georgian-style estate, making guests feel like they have just entered another world from their short trip from downtown Charlottesville. Mattie and Jack’s wedding embodied a whimsical garden party aesthetic, perfectly suited for their late June celebration. Their bright color palette of white, ivory, light blues, blush, peach, apricot, and pink came to life through lush, artful arrangements and thoughtful little odes to Mattie’s love of butterflies scattered through the design.

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Mattie and Jack met in high school and have been together since 2014. At the start of 2022, Jack decided this was the year he would pop the question. He planned a trip to Montauk, NY, around the holiday. When they landed in NY, the weather was terrible – it was rainy and foggy the entire drive from the airport to the Hamptons. Much to his relief, they woke up to a beautiful, sunny day the next morning. That day, they went out to Camp Hero State Park and, with the Montauk Point Lighthouse in the background, Jack delivered a thoughtful and poignant speech about their time together and asked Mattie to marry him with a professional photographer capturing each moment. The night ended at Stephen Talkhouse, a live music club in an old house in Amagansett, with Mattie and Jack dancing the night away. There was not a single other person on the dance floor – given that the Hamptons is not typically a winter destination, there were probably only 10 or 15 other people there to begin with – but that did not stop them.

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Mattie wore an Ines Di Santo dress she purchased from Carine’s Bridal Atelier in Washington, D.C. The dress was a strapless sweetheart lace ball gown.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Mattie’s bridesmaids embraced the mismatched dresses trend and selected dresses in varying shades and patterns of light blue from Reformation, Show Me Your Mumu, Anthropologie, Showpo, and Nordstrom.[/field]
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Mattie and Jack had special His & Hers signature cocktails, a classic old-fashioned, and a muddled-berry summer spritz cocktail decorated with butterfly drink stirrers.

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Mattie and Jack’s wedding florals perfectly embodied the garden party vibe with colorful, lush arrangements. The floral designs featured peonies, garden roses, ranunculus, delphinium, local lisianthus, local foxglove, and local tiger lilies. For the ceremony, floral vases overflowed perched atop columns to beautifully frame their intimate courtyard setting. These pieces were later repurposed to accent the bar at their reception. To welcome guests, the tent entrance was adorned with airy elaeagnus vines and delicate paper butterflies, setting a whimsical yet elegant tone. Inside, tables featured a dynamic mix of lush, tall centerpieces and playful bud vases, accented by peach candles that complemented the florals effortlessly. The result was a stunningly fresh, romantic, and refined atmosphere—an unforgettable setting for Mattie and Jack’s celebration.

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Instead of a typical cake cutting after dinner, Mattie and Jack opted to cut the cake in front of Gallison’s Hall fireplace mantle at the end of cocktail hour to kick off the reception festivities.

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The ceremony took place in a sunken garden with historic details in the gate and statues. The garden party feel continued with parasols for each guest, incorporating overflowing urns of blush, pink, blue, and peach tones, and a string trio to set the mood. A close friend officiated the wedding, adding a personal touch.

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An airy eleagnus vine arch wrapped around the entrance to the reception tent and throughout it were colorful paper butterflies of various sizes tying back to Mattie’s love of butterflies that was seen in the invitations, seating chart, and drink stirrers.

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Mattie’s dad always knew he wanted a vintage Corvette, so he had purchased one a few years back, and it sat at the shop for over a year. Once Mattie and Jack brought up the idea of using it for getaway car photos, he was determined to make it happen for them and got it turned around quickly – he even drove the Corvette the 2.5 hours down to Charlottesville in late June with only semi-functional AC so that we could use it. It made for a great addition to their sunset portraits as well!

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The seating chart was a toile butterfly design with calligraphy name cards.

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A Blue Lover’s Dream Wedding With a Hand Painted Dance Floor That Stole the Show

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The design of the wedding itself was inspired by traditional Mexican pottery and Lindsey and Zach’s love of the color blue. They also included neutral tones of white, cream, and beige to allow the shades of blue to take center stage.

Their dance floor was hand-painted to match a piece of tile Lindsey found during one of their trips; it was the centerpiece of the reception as it was. The same tile pattern was featured on the bar and DJ booth. The lighting team created a truss structure over their dance floor, covered in greenery and vines and accentuated with rattan lanterns. The dining tables’ place settings featured woven rattan chargers beneath traditional blue and white talavera plates. The Little Postage House produced all of the printed items for the wedding. The main invitation card featured a blind imprint of an agave and a rich blue ink for the details. The deep blue envelopes featured tile pattern liners and vintage postage.

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A few months after their engagement in late 2020, Lindsey & Zach invited their closest friends and family to their SURPRISE New Year’s Eve wedding (with safety precautions, required COVID testing, and outdoor social distancing). During the reception that evening, they announced they were expecting their first baby, and also planned to celebrate their marriage with an even bigger party the following year. They were thrilled and excited to celebrate with loved ones in Tequila, Mexico, on New Year’s Eve 2021! The couple welcomed their precious baby boy Parker a few months before their Tequila wedding. Complications with Parker’s health ultimately meant that Lindsey and Zach postponed their plans by another year, opting for the following New Year’s Eve instead. Parker passed away at 5.5 months old due to complications from a genetic deletion. Zach and Lindsey dove headfirst into mourning and trying to figure out how to continue to honor their late son. In August 2022, just days before what should have been Parker’s first birthday, they founded the Parker H. Bainter Foundation, which helps keep families together during unexpected hospital stays and provides musical therapy and other items to children’s bedsides.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Lindsey wore the same stunning Pronovias gown she had chosen for their original vows two years earlier in California. But this time, the dress had a meaningful twist: Emily Plank hand-painted delicate blue flowers, butterflies, and a hummingbird to honor Parker on a stunning bow train attached to the back of Lindsey’s dress.[/field]
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Bridesmaids and the officiant, the couple’s friend Sophie, wore mismatched blue and white midi and maxi dresses of their choice; the blue floral print dresses were from Reformation.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Zach wore a black tuxedo, dark blue Gucci loafers, and a midnight velvet bow tie. His frog prince cufflinks were a sweet, sentimental nod to Parker: Parker received them as a gift when he was born. [/field]
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The night was filled with delicious food, including a four-course dinner, dancing that lasted for hours, plenty of tequila (of course), late-night tacos and churros, and a spectacular fireworks display to ring in the New Year.

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For florals, I kept saying I wanted them to feel organic and effortless. I wanted a neutral palette, so all the beautiful details of the china would be the star of the day. I worked with Floweriize to create the florals for our wedding day. She doesn’t use any floral foam, which I loved. I loved that we were able to do a little bit for Mother Earth on our wedding day. I asked for the flowers to be fragrant, white, soft, creamy blush, and green. I specifically asked for tuberose and gardenias as I love the scent and wanted the reception to smell delightful. Having planned a lot of events, I know how important it is for guests to be able to have conversations and be able to see over the flowers, so we did a lot of smaller satellite arrangements and candles. We used a lot of garden roses, poppies, stock, and some finer textured foliage. I really let Jimena of Floweriize pick the flowers that she saw at the market in Mexico City that week that looked the freshest and most beautiful to her. She then transported all the flowers from Mexico City to Tequila for our wedding.

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I envisioned a smooth cake that was tall and thin, and wanted it to be simplistic and beautiful. I wanted it to stand alone against the blue and white talavera tile background. UPPER TIER: Flavor: Banana Filling: Cream cheese and dulce de leche MIDDLE TIER: Flavor: Special vanilla Filling: Cream cheese and red berries LOWER TIER: Flavor: Carrot Cake

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]Music is very important to Zach and Lindsey, who have traveled a ton to see their favorite bands and DJs. For entertainment, the couple had both a live band and a DJ. Their first dance was to John Legend’s “I Don’t Love You Like I Used To.” Lindsey notes that it’s one of his lesser-known songs, but the lyrics are so meaningful to them after all they’ve been through together.[/field]
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Lindsey and Zach’s wedding weekend in Mexico included events that led their guests throughout Tequila town. The weekend kicked off with a sunset-themed rehearsal dinner on the rooftop of Hotel Solar De Las Animas. A tequila tasting at Destileria Orendain led guests on a tour of the agave fields in shuttles shaped like tequila bottles and chili peppers. Zach and Lindsey shared that they were once again expecting and did a gender reveal in the agave fields surrounded by their family and friends (it’s a boy!). The night before the wedding, guests celebrated with a welcome party at Restaurante La Fonda Cholula in the town center.

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Knowing that joy would come from being with their family and friends, they decided to renew their vows by tying the knot on New Year’s Eve 2022 (one year after their original plans for their celebration in Tequila). Their dear friend Sophie Spier officiated the touching ceremony at Hacienda el Centenario, which included a “ring-warming” (both wedding rings passed around to all the couple’s guests during the ceremony) and emotional, heartfelt vows from Lindsey and Zach, both of whom referenced their son, Parker.

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Little Postage House

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A Garden Wedding at a Rancho Santa Fe Estate With Classic Style and a Splash of Drama

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The wedding palette featured soft pinks, natural tones, and greens with Tuscan-inspired elements, designed to complement the natural beauty of the property and the lush landscapes of Rancho Santa Fe. The decor blended seamlessly with the rose gardens, mature trees, and serene surroundings. The black attire of the bridal party was echoed in the black and white checkered dance floor, creating a striking contrast against the softness of the greenery and natural tones.

This wedding was a seamless collaboration between the couple and their wedding planner, Olivia Johnson of Amor Atelier, bringing together a shared vision of classic, romantic, and elevated design. AJ and Becky’s wedding day was a beautiful blend of classic elegance and romantic charm, set against the intimate and meaningful backdrop of AJ’s childhood home. The design vision focused on timeless beauty with lush greenery, soft natural tones, and the serene glow of the canyon at sunset. The reception featured a stunning long table set beneath greenery-adorned arches and chandeliers, creating a magical atmosphere. The space around the pool was thoughtfully utilized to maximize seating, ensuring every guest felt included and surrounded by beauty. From the striking ceremony arch filled with Colombian roses to the sophisticated black and white checkered dance floor, every detail contributed to an elevated yet welcoming ambiance. The result was a celebration that felt both personal and unforgettable, with the natural setting enhancing every cherished moment. Planning a wedding at a private residence came with unique challenges, requiring more coordination, customization, and flexibility than a traditional venue. From the start, Olivia’s expertise and personalized approach reassured the couple that planning a wedding at a private residence is a unique opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind celebration. She made every detail feel significant and customized to their design style and love story. Her seamless approach to managing the complexities of a home wedding included thinking outside of the box, collaborating with vendors, and executing every element of their vision to create an authentic representation of them as a couple. The result was a beautiful and unforgettable day where everything felt effortless, allowing the couple to focus on celebrating with their loved ones.

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AJ and Becky met where all true love stories begin—at a bar in Pacific Beach, San Diego. Introduced through mutual friends, we felt an instant connection. Dating during a pandemic wasn’t easy, but it allowed us to spend genuine, uninterrupted time together—between quarantines and nasal swabs, of course. Our relationship quickly became an adventure, including a 16-day road trip through the West, camping in Yellowstone during a snowstorm, and sharing “I love yous” under the beautiful Joshua Trees. Four years, two dogs, and countless memories later, we knew we wanted to spend forever together. For my 32nd birthday, AJ planned the perfect day filled with all my favorite things—dog beach mornings, mint mojito coffee from Philz, and the promise of a romantic dinner. On the way to the restaurant, AJ suggested a sunset stop at our local beach. What started as a casual stroll turned into an adventure, climbing up a bluff in heels, of course. At the top, I saw a beautifully staged blanket, rose petals, and champagne, and I knew this moment was meant for us. After AJ proposed with the sweetest words, the surprises kept coming. Our “quiet dinner” turned out to be a surprise party with our closest friends and family, making an already perfect day even more special. We feel so blessed to share this new chapter surrounded by the people we love most and can’t wait to celebrate our love and commitment with everyone together in one place!

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Becky’s wedding gown, the Jaclyn design from Madi Lane’s Serene line, showcased a strapless, sweetheart neckline with elegantly draped fabric that created a flattering and structured bodice. The full A-line silhouette, combined with a subtle yet dramatic front slit, added a modern twist to the classic bridal style. The flowy skirt and gentle pleats brought a sense of movement and grace, striking the perfect balance between timeless elegance and playful charm.
To complete her look, Becky wore iconic Manolo Blahnik heels, a special choice made with her sisters during a memorable shopping trip to Bergdorf Goodman in New York City. This thoughtful detail added a sentimental touch to her bridal style, making every step down the aisle even more special.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The goal was to make sure each bridesmaid felt beautiful and had a dress they could wear again. Black was the perfect choice for versatility, allowing bridesmaids to wear a dress they already owned, choose from any designer, or easily repurpose it for future events. The approach balanced comfort, style, and the freedom for each bridesmaid to express their style. The bride’s adorable 4-year-old niece wore a custom white dress, earning the special title of the only other person allowed to wear white. She looked like the cutest little mini-bride, stealing hearts (and maybe a few dance moves) throughout the night!

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The groomsmen showcased classic sophistication in timeless black tuxedos by The Black Tux, creating a polished and cohesive look. AJ stood out in a crisp white suit jacket, adding a modern twist to the traditional black-tie style. The couple’s nephews matched the elegance of the groomsmen in charming, smaller versions of black tuxedos.[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

Guest experience was a top priority, with a focus on ensuring no one was ever thirsty, hungry, or left without something to enjoy. From start to finish, the goal was to create an evening that felt thoughtful and seamless for everyone. Serafina Mixologists crafted delicious cocktails that guests are still raving about. To keep the energy high, a pre-ceremony iced coffee bar provided a refreshing caffeine boost to kick off the festivities. Wild Thyme Catering brought the culinary vision to life with a menu designed to delight. Guests enjoyed an array of passed hors d’oeuvres during cocktail hour, keeping the evening’s pace lively and fun. Dinner featured a classic plated meal with options that showcased local flavors, including delicate white fish, tender braised short rib, and rich brown butter gnocchi. It was a perfect blend of elegance and comfort, leaving guests both satisfied and impressed.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The couple’s extended family owns a renowned rose farm in Colombia, and their world-class roses became a central feature of the wedding’s floral design. Nadine Zines of Studio Fleurish worked her magic, incorporating thousands of these stunning roses into a breathtaking ceremony arch, lush table arrangements, and perfectly balanced floral accents throughout the venue. A special touch was added to the bride’s bouquet, with a white orchid creating a graceful teardrop silhouette. The combination of meaningful family connections and exquisite design brought a unique and unforgettable charm to the wedding decor.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Since neither the bride nor the groom is are big fan of cakes, a simple, single-tier white cake served primarily as a way to showcase a special vintage cake topper from the groom’s grandparents. The couple shared a small bite for the photo op, capturing the moment while keeping the focus on the meaningful heirloom. Guests were treated to a selection of custom desserts, which quickly became the highlight of the evening. These delicious bites added an unexpected and memorable touch, proving that sometimes the sweetest memories come from thinking outside the (cake) box.

[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]The couple’s ceremony was deeply personal, with AJ’s sister-in-law, Robin, officiating and both of their mothers giving heartfelt readings.

Live music played a significant role in creating a magical atmosphere. As a former professional ballerina, the bride curated a selection of iconic ballet scores for the ceremony, including pieces from Swan Lake, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and The Nutcracker. A collaboration between a string quartet and a harpist brought these classical pieces to life, setting an elegant and timeless tone.

The bride’s processional to The Dying Swan by Tchaikovsky was a particularly meaningful moment, while Waltz of the Flowers provided the perfect backdrop for the bridal party processional. When a last-minute change led to the addition of trumpeter Matt Fitzsimmons, the couple’s DJ, Conner, turned an unexpected situation into a beautiful surprise. The trumpet’s bright sound complemented the music perfectly and led the recessional to Wedding March by Mendelssohn, fulfilling a dream scenario.

During dinner, guests enjoyed a classic wedding song playlist curated by the bride, blending timeless Motown hits by Stevie Wonder with modern favorites from Leon Bridges.

The dance floor opened with September by Earth, Wind & Fire—an ideal choice for the September 21st celebration. The energy remained high as guests danced the night away to a mix of upbeat tracks, making for a night filled with joy and celebration.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

A standout moment of the wedding was a heartfelt live performance during the couple’s first dance. The bride’s sister and three close friends collaborated on vocals, cello, guitar, and piano, delivering a beautiful acoustic rendition of First Date by Blink-182, a nod to the groom’s favorite band. This personal touch blended the groom’s love of music with the talents of loved ones, creating a truly memorable experience. As the evening came to a close, the DJ played the original version of the song, setting the stage for a playful and unexpected twist—guests jumping into the pool. It was a joyous and unforgettable ending to a perfect celebration.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Becky incorporated meaningful family heirlooms and sentimental pieces into her wedding day attire. Her bouquet featured a cherished family pin, while she wore a pearl cocktail ring that belonged to her great-aunt, and her mother’s blue aquamarine bracelet. For something borrowed, Becky wore her best friend’s bridal earrings, which she borrowed just before leaving the Inn for the ceremony. These same earrings were worn by her friend at her wedding, where Becky had the honor of officiating. Each piece added a layer of love and history to the day, creating beautiful connections to the past.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

The wedding favors were thoughtfully chosen to be more than just keepsakes, offering guests something they could use and enjoy long after the celebration. Personalized wooden place cards have been repurposed as charming Christmas ornaments, adding a sentimental touch to holiday decor. Custom matchboxes have also found a place next to favorite candles in guests’ homes, serving as a lasting reminder of the special day. These practical and meaningful details continue to bring joy and keep the wedding day memories alive.

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A Garden Inspired Country Club Wedding Blending Tradition With Refined Romance

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”][/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The wedding palette was a refined blend of light blue, crisp white, lush green, and pops of vibrant pink. The sophisticated hues set the tone for an elegant and romantic celebration.

Rooted in Southern tradition, this wedding was a timeless, classic country club affair, seamlessly blending garden-inspired charm with ballroom elegance. The design evoked a refined yet warm atmosphere—think lush florals, a chic dinner reception, and a lively night of dancing. Patterned and solid linens created a dynamic visual effect, while blue and white voile draping added a touch of ethereal beauty. Every detail was curated to enhance the guest experience, ensuring an unforgettable evening.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

The proposal was nothing short of magical. While visiting Atlanta during their long-distance relationship, the bride was surprised with an impromptu detour to the Governor’s Mansion, where the groom had once worked. In the mansion’s picturesque garden, he got down on one knee and asked her to be his forever. The surprises continued as the groom had arranged a celebration with their closest family and friends, making the moment even more special.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]The bridal look was a vision of timeless elegance. She wore a Robert Bullock drop-waist A-line gown, paired with a delicate Anne Barge lace long-sleeve jacket for the ceremony. As the evening unfolded, she removed the jacket for a sleek, modern transformation. Custom lace detailing was added to the bodice, seamlessly integrating elements from both pieces.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The bridesmaids were effortlessly chic in Lula Kate gowns. The two Maids of Honor wore strapless blue floral dresses, while the rest of the bridal party donned solid blue gowns in varying silhouettes, creating a harmonious yet unique aesthetic.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The Groom exuded classic sophistication in a white dinner jacket and tuxedo pants from Jim’s Formal Wear, paired with black Tecovas boots for a touch of fun Southern charm. The groomsmen wore traditional black tuxedos, creating a timeless and polished look.[/field]
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A true reflection of Southern hospitality, the couple’s menu featured sumptuous food stations with beef tenderloin and fresh seafood, accompanied by passed hors d’oeuvres that paid homage to their roots. The couple also crafted signature cocktails named after their beloved pets—The Louie Lemon Drop Martini, inspired by the family’s corgi, and The Champ Chiller Margarita, a nod to their goldendoodle.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Every floral element of the wedding was a masterpiece. Towering floral tabletop trees adorned the head tables, while lush runners of garden roses, hydrangeas, peonies, Jackson vine, and blue delphinium cascaded gracefully. Suspended floral chandeliers created a breathtaking display, adding a sense of enchantment to the reception. Elegant candlelight flickered amidst arrangements in trumpet vases and delicate compotes, bringing a soft, romantic glow to the evening. Crystal-clear charger plates and bespoke menu cards tied with blue silk ribbon added an extra touch of refinement.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The four-tier wedding cake was adorned with delicate orchids that perfectly mirrored the blooms in the bride’s bouquet. Elegant and refined, each tier was a vision of sophistication, blending seamlessly with the romantic aesthetic of the day.

[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]The ceremony was rich with heartfelt moments, including a stunning vocal performance of “The Blessing” by the groom’s sister-in-law during a special time of prayer. The couple also personalized their vows, making them deeply meaningful and unique to their love story.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

From the invitation suite to the day-of details, cohesive branding played a key role in the wedding’s aesthetic. The letter-pressed invitations were printed in dusty blue ink, featuring a custom monogram encased in a blind-pressed floral wreath—designed to reflect the same blooms seen throughout the wedding décor. A soft blue silk ribbon tied the suite together, adding an extra layer of sophistication.

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]The couple’s nieces and nephew had the honor of serving as flower girls and ring bearer, making the day even more memorable.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

The couple embarked on a dream honeymoon to Sugar Beach in St. Lucia, beginning their next chapter in paradise.

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Little Postage House

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Whitney Bowman Events

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A Villa Rossi Wedding with Subtle Nods to Breakfast at Tiffany’s and a Modern Palette

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Black & White[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Leslie and Miguel envisioned a wedding that would blend timeless elegance with modern sophistication, drawing subtle inspiration from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Rather than replicating the film’s aesthetic literally, they embraced its spirit—chic, iconic, and impeccably styled. The black-and-white palette became the foundation for a visual story that felt both fashion-forward and deeply classic. Villa Rossi, with its frescoed interiors and historic charm, was the perfect stage for their vision. Sleek black accents, crisp white florals, velvet ribbons, and custom calligraphed details created an atmosphere of quiet luxury. The dinner took place in the villa’s grand hall, where candlelight flickered across centuries-old walls, evoking the intimacy of an old-world salon. Every element, from the bride’s elegant silhouette to the curated tablescape, echoed their desire to celebrate love with style, intention, and a touch of cinematic glamour.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Leslie wore a breathtaking custom gown that perfectly captured the essence of timeless glamour. The silhouette was sleek and architectural, featuring a structured strapless bodice with a gently scooped neckline that highlighted her décolleté with effortless elegance. Crafted in luminous satin, the gown moved like liquid with every step, its clean lines and flawless tailoring creating a striking yet understated effect.

To complete her look, Leslie chose a long, ethereal veil delicately embellished with pearls—an accessory that added texture, romance, and a subtle nod to classic bridal tradition. The pearls caught the light with every movement, echoing the sparkle in her eyes and enhancing the graceful simplicity of her ensemble. Paired with pearl drop earrings, a low chignon, and soft makeup, Leslie’s bridal style was a modern homage to Audrey Hepburn: iconic, elegant, and unforgettable.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The bridesmaids embodied modern elegance in floor-length black gowns, each wearing a unique silhouette that reflected her style. From sleek halter necklines to classic strapless cuts and delicate off-the-shoulder designs, the mix-and-match approach added depth and individuality while maintaining a cohesive and sophisticated look. The monochromatic palette made a bold statement, echoing the overall black-and-white theme of the wedding and allowing the lush florals and historic setting of Villa Rossi to take center stage. Paired with natural makeup and sleek hairstyles, the bridesmaids looked effortlessly chic, refined, confident, and perfectly in tune with the stylish, editorial feel of the day.

[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Miguel opted for a classic black tuxedo with a modern, tailored cut that spoke to the overall elegance of the celebration. His look was polished and refined, featuring a crisp white dress shirt, a traditional black bow tie, and a satin lapel that added just the right amount of sheen under the villa’s warm interior lighting.

The ensemble was completed with a sleek pair of patent leather shoes and a white pocket square—subtle details that elevated his timeless look without overshadowing it. Miguel’s style perfectly mirrored the event’s black-and-white aesthetic: sophisticated, intentional, and effortlessly chic.[/field]
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Originally planned for the garden, the cocktail hour was moved to the villa’s enchanting library due to a brief summer rain—an unexpected change that added a touch of intimacy and old-world charm. Guests were welcomed with signature Aperol Spritz cocktails and a curated selection of finger foods featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Before the aperitivo, a champagne tower set up beneath the villa’s loggia added a celebratory flourish immediately following the symbolic ceremony. Dinner was a seated affair in the villa’s grand frescoed hall, featuring a traditional Italian menu served in courses: antipasti, a rich pasta dish, and a flavorful second course—all elegantly plated and paired with regional wines. Midway through the dinner, guests were surprised by an impromptu performance from a soprano and a tenor, whose operatic voices filled the room and created a magical, unforgettable atmosphere. After the cutting of the wedding cake, a decadent dessert buffet awaited, including classic Italian pastries and artisanal gelato served from a charming vintage cart—an indulgent and playful finale to a beautifully orchestrated evening.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The floral design for Leslie and Miguel’s wedding was a sophisticated interplay of texture and tone, all within a crisp black-and-white palette. At the heart of the reception decor were lush white hydrangeas—voluminous and cloud-like—layered with delicate white roses, lisianthus, and ranunculus to add structure and movement. The result was a floral landscape that felt soft yet architectural, echoing the timeless elegance of Villa Rossi’s frescoed interiors.

A signature design element was the use of black velvet ribbons, seen throughout the celebration: tied around menus and napkins, woven through floral arrangements, and used as a unifying motif across the entire tablescape. Tall taper candles in glass holders, mirrored surfaces, and monochrome stationery completed the look, creating a dramatic yet harmonious setting. The décor struck a perfect balance between modern minimalism and classic romance—refined, intentional, and utterly unforgettable.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The wedding cake was a true reflection of Leslie and Miguel’s aesthetic: modern, refined, and effortlessly chic. A sleek two-tier design in pure white, it featured smooth fondant with a clean finish and a delicate black velvet ribbon at the base—subtle yet striking, and perfectly aligned with the day’s monochrome palette. Displayed amid flickering candles and the villa’s timeless architecture, the cake became a sculptural focal point. Inside, it held a delicious surprise: a traditional Italian millefoglie layered with delicate pastry cream and fresh red berries. Light, flavorful, and elegantly understated, it offered a sweet finale that delighted guests and stayed true to the couple’s love for Italian taste with a sophisticated twist.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

The Surprise Opera Performance. One of the most unforgettable moments of the evening came during the seated dinner, when guests were surprised by a live opera performance. A soprano and a tenor entered the frescoed dining hall and began to sing, their voices filling the space with emotion and elegance. The performance brought goosebumps and even a few tears—an unexpected and deeply moving interlude that elevated the dining experience into something magical.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

The Vintage Gelato Cart. As the evening progressed, guests were treated to a sweet Italian tradition with a twist: a vintage gelato cart rolled into the courtyard, offering artisanal flavors alongside a curated dessert buffet. It was the perfect playful touch after the formal cake cutting—a nod to the joy and spontaneity of Italian celebrations. The gelato, served in delicate paper cups, was not only a crowd favorite but also a visual highlight thanks to the nostalgic styling of the cart.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

Custom Monogram & Dance Floor Reveal For the after-dinner celebration, the villa’s loggia was transformed into a chic dance floor, complete with a custom monogram projected onto the historic stone walls. This detail, designed exclusively for Leslie and Miguel, brought a personal and modern touch to the centuries-old space. As the DJ began to play and the lights dimmed, the atmosphere shifted from elegant to electric, creating the perfect close to a day full of emotion, beauty, and thoughtful design.

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Petit Bouquet

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A Classic Coastal Wedding Rooted in Southern Charm in Savannah

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”][/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

For Heather and Colton’s wedding, we wanted to pull colors from the natural surroundings of the beautiful Spanish Moss-draped Oak Trees, along with the Savannah Marsh that surrounded our venue. This meant we included varying shades of green, blues, and whites, while including an accent of champagne and gold to warm things up.

Throughout our design, we wanted to keep the keywords of CLASSIC & TIMELESS, SOUTHERN & COASTAL, AND ROMANTIC & FUN. We made sure to have each element from the bridesmaids’ dresses to the table scape and design of the tent circle back to these key words and overall feel.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Colton planned on proposing in Montana because they had always talked about going there together, and he’s a cowboy at heart! Heather has said, “We love being outdoors and adventurous, so it was one of the most amazing trips we have taken together. I had no idea he was going to do it on this trip, although I was hoping he would! He waited until the last day of our trip so I would be surprised, which I was! We went to dinner at this beautiful place called SageLodgee, and before dinner, we were walking around outside with the most amazing Mountain View. I couldn’t have dreamt up a more beautiful place or perfect proposal! He had thought of everything because he even found a photographer in Montana. I was so happy to have pictures to look back on the most amazing day!”

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From Heather, “Originally I thought I wanted a fitted gown before I went to see Britt (Woods) and he told me, ‘you only get one day to look like a princess.’ So I started trying on a few dresses, and I knew I wanted the 3D flower appliqué, and he pulled the most beautiful dress for me. It was the dress I wore on our wedding day, but in blue, and I fell in love. He said, You know it’s the one when you start petting the dress.’ I could not stop smiling.” As the designer, he customized it to Heather’s taste and made the dress more A-line and in white while also creating a shawl that matched to wear for the ceremony. “I trusted Britt completely to make me the most perfect dress, and he did an unbelievable job. I could not have picked a more perfect dress or stylist!”

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“ For the bridesmaids’ dresses, I knew I wanted blue to match the color scheme, and when I came across the Lula Kate dresses, I was obsessed! They fit the “coastal southern” vibe to a tee. I also knew it was meant to be when they had lily of the valley flowers on them, which matched my bouquet! ” from Heather

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

You will rarely see Colton not wearing a pair of cowboy boots, so it made sense for him to wear them on their wedding day! He got a pair of black alligators from Tecovas to match his tux. He also knew he wanted to wear the ivory tux jacket to differentiate from the groomsmen. Then he chose the game bird feather bow tie because he is an avid hunter and outdoorsman, and liked the extra detail of personality.

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Heather and Colton worked with Shaken + Stirred Mixology to truly create a custom cocktail for each of them for guests to enjoy. Working with mixologist Brendan, they created Colton’s called the Georgia Gentleman, which has a peach-infused bourbon, local peach, local honey, and tobacco. Heather’s, called The Finley, featured Vodka, Rose water, Ginger, Tea, grapefruit oil, citrus, and had a fun twist for guests when they added the components together and the colors changed.. For a southern flair, guests enjoyed chicken and waffle bites at cocktail hour, and dinner stations featured oysters, crab cakes, grilled peach salad with sliced beef tenderloin with a cowboy butter, along with Pork Tenderloin with Vidalia Onion Gravy and Pecan Praline Whipped Potatoes – just to name a few!

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

When it came to designing Heather and Colton’s wedding day, we knew we wanted to have a clear top tent and bring the night sky in with simple cafe lights and greenery. Our tables were a mix of rectangles and small round tables with sofas for a mix of seating. Two large floral arrangements anchored the tent on each side with the band stage and dancefloor in the center. Cocktail tables and light-up letters highlighted the pool space for guests to spread out, and the bar featured a custom crest created by Reagan Rowland with The Painted Party. We kept to a beautiful coastal color palette of blue, white, green, and warm accents of gold and honey. For our ceremony, large urns create a dramatic entrance for our aisle in front of the HollyOaks house with greenery surrounding our couple and their wedding party. Our celebration started in the front of the house and moved to the backyard – with such a warm venue, it allowed us to have the feel that we were hosting in their own home.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The wedding cake was baked by a family friend and decorated with pale blue flowers that were a nod to the details on Heather’s dress. With the wedding cake, guests enjoyed a variety of cheesecakes from famed Lazar with Honey Catering.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

Our ceremony was extremely special with the start of a song written and sung by the groom, Colton. This was a complete surprise to all guests, along with the bride not having heard the song before. During the ceremony, Heather and Colton chose to do a ring warming ceremony where their wedding party passed each of their rings to the center and infused them with love, prayers, and wishes. For this, they chose the song ‘How Great Thou Art.’ “Without knowing, we both chose that song to play, so it was perfect!” Their first dance for the evening was Sweet Symphony by Chris Stapleton + Joy Oladokun, and a private last dance of the evening was Joy of My Life by Chris Stapleton.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

The week before their wedding, Hurricane Helene had swept through the southeast. Many of Heather and Colton’s family and friends were affected by the storm, with many without power as the wedding approached. Luckily, we were still able to move forward as planned despite rainstorms that continued to roll through as their wedding weekend kicked off. Due to this, it was extremely special to every guest who was able to attend their day. One of Heather’s favorite moments was just the simplicity of the beginning of the day, getting ready with her bridesmaids and mom, because they are so important to her. “We had so much fun getting ready and listening to throwback music!”

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

As a singer and songwriter, Colton had been writing a song since the beginning days of his relationship with Heather. As the wedding day approached, the song was ready to be showcased, and the perfect way to do that was right before Heather walked down the aisle, in front of all their closest family and friends. At their first look and gift exchange, Colton gifted Heather with the lyrics of his song, as she had never heard it before that day. “It was also special to get to read Colton’s song lyrics during our first look and then get to hear it during our ceremony. That was a moment I always reminisce about, and it made the day even more special. I had waited years to hear the song he wrote me, and it was so beautifully written and added a sweet moment to our ceremony.”

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

In the south, a big superstition is to bury a bottle of bourbon upside-down, at your wedding location 30 days before, to ward off the bad weather. On the wedding day, the couple will then dig it up to enjoy. Heather says, “I’m so glad we did because we just missed the storm! Lastly, it was special to enjoy a sip of the bourbon with our family and friends before we walked down the aisle and said I do!” We are very fortunate they decided to keep tradition, as it kept a storm away, and we were able to keep our original ceremony plans!

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HollyOaks on the Marsh

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Allison Event Design

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Petit Bouquet

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A Vividly Romantic Celebration Inspired by the Charm and Color of Asolo at Hotel Villa Cipriani

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”][/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The palette was the following: cornflower blue, polar wind, summer song, poppy red, fuchsia purple, autumn sunset, apricot wash, sunstruck, forest green, sap green.

From the bride: Asolo holds a special place in our hearts—the people, the charm, the artistry, the history, and, of course, its undeniable beauty. It’s called The City of a Hundred Horizons for a reason! When envisioning our wedding, we wanted it to feel like a natural extension of Asolo’s beauty, not something that overshadowed it. That intention guided every decision, from the save-the-dates and invitations to the flowers, place cards, tablescapes, and gift bags. Every detail reflected the essence of Asolo and our venue, Hotel Villa Cipriani. The invitations featured a watercolor design inspired by the artisan tile found in each guest room’s bathroom at the hotel—a detail the bride fell in love with on her very first visit. A vellum wrap overlay showcased a delicate watercolor of the hotel’s gardens and surrounding prosecco fields, setting the tone for the celebration to come. With a love for color, the bride envisioned vibrant yet harmonious hues woven throughout the wedding. A striking floral arch served as the ceremony’s focal point, bursting with shades of blue, orange, pink, and green against the hotel’s historic stone backdrop. This balance of tradition and fresh vibrancy carried into the reception, where blue and white toile tablecloths, elegant candelabras, and colorful candles complemented the hotel’s signature floral plates. At its core, the bride’s vision was simple: a wedding that was timeless, beautiful, colorful, and, above all, fun!

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

From the bride: The groom proposed during a trip to Newport, Rhode Island, planned for his birthday weekend. Since he’s never been one to enjoy celebrating his birthday, it was no surprise that he chose this moment to shift the focus elsewhere. On the drive from the Providence airport to Newport, he suggested a detour to the scenic Point Judith Lighthouse overlook, where he ultimately got down on one knee and proposed. The couple spent the rest of the weekend celebrating in Newport.

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La Premiere

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After a traditional Italian Aperitivo with finger foods passed around, it was time for the placé dinner. As the first course, Open Lasagna with local vegetables and buffalo ricotta, was served, followed by a Risotto with Polignano carrots, rosemary, scallops, and olive caviar. For the Main course, the guests had Roast beef tenderloin, vegetable and parmesan millefeuille, pink pepper sauce, and star anise. For those guests who prefer fish, the catering served a Seared sea bass fillet with a Cantabrico anchovy cream reduction and spicy turnip tops. The Eggplant Parmigiana was served to the vegetarian guests as the main course. A Strawberry sorbet was the perfect ending for a very Italian wedding dinner.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The floral arrangements for the ceremony and reception were thoughtfully designed, incorporating classic Italian blooms that added a touch of romance and charm. The stunning flowers, from the bride’s bouquet to the decorative arrangements throughout the villa’s gardens, complemented the natural beauty of the venue, creating an ethereal ambiance for the event. The bridal bouquet was rounded but naturally shaped with hydrangeas, roses, garden roses, spray roses, dahlias, delphinium, and a few greenery.

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The evening concluded with a beautiful wedding cake that was not only a visual masterpiece but also a delicious treat for all the guests. Rachel and Colin decided to cut and then serve to their guests a traditional Italian Millefoglie stuffed with a delightful chantilly cream and decorated with mixed berries. The cake-cutting moment, set against the stunning backdrop of Villa Cipriani’s gardens, was a fitting end to a perfect day, symbolizing the couple’s love and the beginning of their new life together.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

We wanted our wedding weekend to feel like an escape for our guests—an intimate celebration in a town that holds so much meaning for us. With a small and close-knit group, our goal was to have all of our favorite people fully immersed in Asolo’s charm, with plenty of prosecco, gelato, and tagliatelle at their fingertips. We told everyone that the hardest part was simply getting to Asolo—once they arrived, we’d take care of the rest. Asolo is a small town, and for one magical weekend, it felt like it belonged entirely to us. Everywhere we turned, we ran into loved ones, and by the end of the weekend, friends and family from all walks of life had formed new friendships. It was, without a doubt, the most unforgettable and magical experience of our lives.

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The Tuscan Wedding

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A Harvest Hued Celebration of Love Amid the Vineyards of Villa Petriolo

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”][/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

This fall wedding at Villa Petriolo was all about embracing the natural beauty of the season, letting Tuscany’s warm autumn hues shine. Everything about this wedding felt effortless, warm, and beautifully in tune with the season, making for a truly unforgettable celebration in the heart of Tuscany.

The color palette featured rich ambers, golden yellows, deep rusts, and warm corals, creating a cozy yet elegant feel. The styling was understated but refined, with a rustic-chic vibe that felt effortless. Terracotta accents, bundles of golden wheat, and soft candlelight added warmth and depth, perfectly complementing the surrounding vineyards.

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The bride wore a beautiful lace dress—elegant, simple, and timeless, effortlessly fitting the romantic Tuscan setting. Her bridesmaids complemented the fall landscape in jewel-toned dresses, adding richness and depth to the overall aesthetic. The mix of deep greens, burgundy, and mustard tones created a stunning contrast against the warm golden backdrop of the vineyard.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]The menu celebrated seasonal Tuscan flavors, with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Guests enjoyed handmade pasta, local cheeses, roasted vegetables, and slow-braised meats, all paired with some of the region’s finest wines. The dinner took place outdoors beneath the cypress trees, with the sun setting over the rolling hills—a picture-perfect setting for a truly special meal.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The menu celebrated seasonal Tuscan flavors, with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Guests enjoyed handmade pasta, local cheeses, roasted vegetables, and slow-braised meats, all paired with some of the region’s finest wines. The dinner took place outdoors beneath the cypress trees, with the sun setting over the rolling hills—a picture-perfect setting for a truly special meal.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The couple opted for a classic Italian millefoglie-style wedding cake, made fresh on the spot by chefs. This stunning dessert featured layers of crisp pastry, fresh berries, and delicate cream, offering a light yet indulgent ending to the meal. Guests gathered around to watch it being assembled, adding an interactive and joyful element to the evening.

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A Vibrant Cultural Fusion Wedding Weekend on the Shores of Lake Washington

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Red, Pink, Orange[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Kelsey and Ramana had a stunning western/Indian fusion wedding weekend on Lake Washington located in Kirkland, Washington. Their rehearsal dinner was on Friday, September 20, western ceremony on Saturday, September 21, and Indian wedding ceremony on Sunday, September 22. “A lot of my inspiration came from a trip to India we went on earlier in the year, and I was stunned by the beauty. The colorful textiles, buildings, and art inspired us to add more color and patterns to our florals and linens at our Indian ceremony. “

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Kelsey and Ramana met on Bumble, and their connection was instant. Introducing Ramana to Kelsey’s dog Daisy sealed the deal. After many trips together and meeting their families, they knew it was meant to be. They were engaged in Maui.

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The bride’s stunning gown for her American ceremony had detached sleeves that added a romantic detail to her modern take on a traditional silhouette. “A detail that I completely forgot about but ended up working out perfectly was not bustling my train during the wedding. I had a bustle AND a dress change for Saturday and neither of them happened. I was so caught up in dancing that I forgot all about them. But I’m glad I did because the photos we took at the end of the night with my train jumping in the wind while Ram and I ran on the dock completely encapsulated romance and fun, and looking back at our wedding, I wouldn’t change a thing.” For her Indian ceremony, she wore a traditional sari in red with gold details and later changed into a pale green lehenga.

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The couple provided traditional Indian cuisine to their guests and celebrated their cultures in their desserts, including Indian, Norwegian, and Japanese. “I loved that our dessert table included desserts from our cultures: Indian (Kaju Katli), Norwegian (Lefse and Krumkake), and Japanese (Mochi).”

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

“I had so many favorite details from our wedding, but one of my absolute favorites was the florals. I felt like I was floating through a fairytale, walking through our tent with the different colors, variety of flowers, and the different heights of each stem. The different heights allowed for each flower to be seen and added such a sweet touch. And the way they subtly swayed in the wind was so charming – it gave me a feeling I’ll never forget. Our amazing florist, Simply By Tamara Nicole, included a few daisies in my bouquet and on my side of the altar in honor of my dog, Daisy, who passed away earlier in the year.”

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The wedding cake was designed to incorporate the architectural floral inspiration, matching the reception decor.

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“The entire Indian ceremony was a favorite because of all the different traditions and customs, but a few extra special moments were being showered with rice to announce our marriage, putting flower garlands on each other, and my dad reciting Sanskrit almost perfectly are all such beautiful memories. I also loved that I had mehndi (traditional Indian art) on my hands for both days. To me, it represented the fusion of our cultures and the blending of our families. “

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

“I loved our boat ride because it was a short time that we got to spend together, just the two of us. The whole weekend was so fast, but the boat ride was a time for us to slow down and soak it all in. I highly recommend some sort of short getaway for every couple on their wedding day.”

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

At the end of their two-day event, the couple had a dance company perform and teach them traditional Indian dances. It was a fun way to wrap up their amazing weekend.

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BBJ La Tavola

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A Candlelit Ballroom Wedding Infused With Romantic Details and Playful Accents

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Classic white, and black[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

First and foremost, they wanted it to be fun. But beyond that, they wanted something romantic and inviting—warm, intimate, and glowing with candlelight. The bride envisioned a space that felt soft, elegant, and a little magical. To bring that to life, they filled a candlelit room with delicate blooms in bud vases, and statement rustic head tables that complemented and transformed Congressional’s historic ballroom. They also knew that incredible hors d’oeuvres were a must, dirty martinis in hand at all times, and as many nods to their dachshunds, Arlo and Poppy, as possible. If you know these two, you know they love cocktail hours, our wiener dogs, and a perfectly made martini. So, “Weenies and Martinis” became their unofficial, yet incredibly fitting, wedding theme. We also knew that incredible hors d’oeuvres were a must, dirty martinis in hand at all times, and as many nods to our dachshunds, Arlo and Poppy, as possible. If you know Greg and me, you know we love cocktail hours, our wiener dogs, and a perfectly made martini. So, “Weenies and Martinis” became our unofficial, yet incredibly fitting, wedding theme. As planning went on, I kept finding new ways to weave Arlo and Poppy into the details. I fully embraced a “why choose?” mindset when designing the cocktail napkins and matchbox favors, covering them with illustrations of our dogs, Congressional, martinis, and more. Our signature cocktails also paid tribute to our pups—Arlo’s Aperol Spritz, Poppy’s Paloma, and the Tabb Tini (an ode to Greg’s martini recipe crafted during our quarantine days). We even had dachshund-shaped drink stirrers. Guests found their seats at our escort display, where their cards were adorned with alternating dachshund and martini pins. Once there, they discovered their place cards in the form of little dachshund cutouts. Later, as the dance floor opened, oversized cutouts of Arlo and Poppy made their debut (and yes, the posters still live in our home). Looking back, I might have gone a little over the top—but honestly, no regrets. In the end, every detail came together in a way that felt so uniquely us—eccentric dachshund touches and all. Seeing how beautifully the space transformed was incredible, and I’m beyond grateful to everyone who helped make it a night to remember.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Greg suggested a trip to Jupiter, Florida, with their friends to celebrate her birthday. They all decided to have cocktails at the dock before dinner, and Greg told them not to be late so they wouldn’t miss the sunset (especially the bride, the perpetually late one of the group). She shockingly was the first of their friends to be ready, and that should’ve been her first sign. Greg and Madeleine made their way down to the dock to wait for their friends and watch the sunset. As they reached the dock, she paused to admire the full moon behind them that was peaking through the sky. When she turned back around to take in the sunset, Greg was down on one knee during the most magical golden hour with the lighthouse backlit across the water. She said “YAA!” through happy tears (it was giving dolphin). Their friends came running down—along with our dog, Arlo—to celebrate and pop champagne before they hopped on a boat that Greg had arranged to celebrate with dinner at their favorite restaurant. It was the best night ever. And as for Poppy, a.k.a. the second half of their “weenies and martinis” inspiration? Well, one week later, we were driving to pick up their little girl as fiancés. BEST BIRTHDAY WEEK EVER.

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As planning went on, they continued to find new ways to weave Arlo and Poppy into the details, covering cocktail napkins and matchbox favors with illustrations of their dogs, Congressional, martinis, and more. Their signature cocktails also paid tribute to their pups—Arlo’s Aperol Spritz, Poppy’s Paloma, and the Tabb Tini (an ode to Greg’s martini recipe crafted during our quarantine days). They even had dachshund-shaped drink stirrers. From the bride: “If I had to choose, anything involving cheese was my ultimate favorite. I cheered when the Caesar salad in a parmesan crisp bowl was served. And if you were anywhere near me that day, you would have heard me say, “I can’t wait for the mac and cheese balls” every 30 minutes. My amazing bridesmaids and planner, Risse, even made sure I had a full plate of them waiting for me when we arrived at cocktail hour. Speaking of hors d’oeuvres, another favorite of ours was the bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese. On the other hand, Greg is stating that I need to mention the crab cake balls, and the filet mignon entrées with family-style Béarnaise carafes. Honestly, if we keep going, then we’d just be listing our entire menu!”

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Delicate white florals in a modern design decorated everything for the day. The dachshunds existed throughout the wedding day as well, from on the matchboxes that were gifted to guests, to their table assignment chart at cocktail hour, to guests’ seats at dinner.

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Giving a nod back to the traditional essence of the day, the cake was decorated with traditionally vanilla frosting and adorned with white florals.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Guests found their seats at our escort display, where their cards were adorned with alternating dachshund and martini pins. Once there, they discovered their place cards in the form of little dachshund cutouts. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Later, as the dance floor opened, oversized cutouts of Arlo and Poppy made their debut (and yes, the posters still live in our home). Looking back, I might have gone a little over the top—but honestly, no regrets.

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Bachelor Boys Band

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Brigitte Renee Photography

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A Cheerful and Colorful Wedding at the Merrimon Wynne House

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Light blue, light sage green, white, purple, and light pink were selected as the primary colors of Hattie & Patrick’s wedding color palette.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Hattie & Patrick’s Raleigh wedding day was a cheerful, vibrant celebration that evoked the same warm, happy vibes the couple is known for amongst family and friends! Working with the team at C&D Events, the couple designed a wedding day filled with colorful organic florals, playful textures, and hints of whimsy throughout as nods to the couple’s love story. The couple desired a wedding that was modern yet vibrant, and balanced this through colorful stationery, decor, and floral design set against the historic and clean backdrop of the Merrimon-Wynne House. Their wedding’s design featured hints of blue, purple, and pink florals, decor, and paper goods as a nod to the couple’s favorite colors. Hattie & Patrick utilized every corner of this historic Raleigh wedding venue for their wedding day’s festivities – from a private first look and portraits on the front porch, to a sunny & joyful ceremony on the main lawn facing the house, to a candlelit reception in the property’s carriage house filled with long family-style table for their guests to mingle and enjoy.

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From the bride, “We met at a wedding! Mutual friends were getting married in DC (Patrick is friends with the groom from college, and Hattie’s best friend was the bride), and even though we were both living in Raleigh at the time, we had never met. We were seated at the kids’ table in the back corner of the restaurant, but didn’t quite make a true connection until later in the night when donuts were served for dessert. To honor the moment we truly connected, we also served donuts for dessert at our wedding! Patrick popped the question on Monday, July 31, 2023. While a Monday night was not Patrick’s #1 option, Hattie made a last-minute trip to the beach the weekend before to go fishing with her best friend. After a quick reorganization of his plan, he told Hattie his boss was treating us to dinner after a great quarter at work. On our way to dinner, Patrick took a detour and pulled up outside of our church in downtown Raleigh. Despite a lot of confusion, we sat on the porch where Pat presented Hattie with a letter that talked about his later-in-life journey in faith and how much Hattie and our church meant to him in that. We made pit stops (with handwritten letters at each spot) at our first apartment together, our first date spot, and then finally the Raleigh rose garden where he proposed!”

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Hattie’s wedding dress embodied their theme of ‘whimsical yet modern’, opting for a smooth crepe number from designer Tara LaTour from local bridal salon Gilded Bridal. Her wedding gown featured a fitted bodice with ruffled shoulder straps, and a long A-line skirt that flowed beautifully. She completed her look with drop pearl earrings, a low ponytail hairstyle, and various family heirlooms woven into her bouquet. [/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

Hattie & Patrick opted for a petite wedding party – composed of their siblings and their best friends! To accentuate the couple’s color palette, the bridesmaids each opted for a unique number – a lavender floor-length evening dress, and a pink-hued floral-patterned chiffon tiered evening dress from assorted designers.

[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The groom and groomsmen kept things classic in two piece blue suits, finished with crisp white suiting shirts, and brown leather shoes.[/field]
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Wedding guests were treated to champagne flutes upon arrival at cocktail hour, and had two signature cocktails, a pineapple mojito & a southern mule, as well as a mocktail spritz for guests to choose from. The couple opted to do stations for dinner from local caterer Rocky Top Catering, the menu featuring roasted chicken, herb-crusted sirloin, and grilled broccolini and potatoes. A late night snack of fresh local margherita pizza was delivered as guests tore up the dance floor late into the evening!

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The bride, Hattie, had her heart set on a whimsical, colorful array of florals for her wedding that balanced the early autumn temperatures with some of their favorite hues. The team at Hathaway Floral Designs wove together a design of organic, overflowing flowers throughout the day. The bride’s organic bouquet was an ethereal composition of soft pastel blooms, evoking a romantic and whimsical garden aesthetic. The arrangement featured delicate blue sweet peas, blush pink campanulas, and white cosmos with sunny yellow centers, interspersed with sprigs of greenery. The bridesmaids’ bouquets were composed of a single flower variety to complement the bride’s large bouquet. They each featured a delicate arrangement of white cosmos with their signature ruffled petals and cheerful yellow centers. The blooms are thoughtfully gathered in a loose, natural style that played off the day’s other floral arrangements. For their ceremony, the couple opted to utilize the lush, historic backdrop of Merrimon Wynne’s main house for guests to face and to serve as their focal point. Four floral arrangements were placed atop modern white pillars, featuring delicate pastel blooms of airy clusters of sweet peas, delicate cosmos, and soft-hued wildflowers interspersed with fresh greenery. Guests were ushered to their seats with an escort card display of handwritten notes from the couple to each of their guests. Their reception’s design aimed to create an intimate, mingling-inducing atmosphere for guests, leveraging long family-style tables strewn with floral compotes, bud vases, and colored candles throughout. The floral centerpieces, arranged in white ceramic vessels, overflowed with delicate pastel blooms, including airy cosmos, blush-hued sweet peas, and soft blue delphiniums, interwoven with dainty wildflowers and fresh greenery. Pale lavender napkins are elegantly knotted atop crisp white plates, with blue water goblets providing a striking contrast. Tapered candles in soft pink and white, placed in gold holders, were mixed with delicate votive candles to complete the intimate atmosphere.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Hattie & Patrick opted for a simple, sentimental cake display for their wedding day. A vanilla bean 1-tiered cake with vanilla frosting was covered in a cascade of blooms that matched their floral design, sitting atop a table covered in a family heirloom tablecloth and surrounded by portraits of their grandparents and parents getting married.

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Sarah Nann Photography

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A Coastal Wedding Infused With Mocha Mousse Hues at The Ritz Carlton Amelia

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”][/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Kate and Allen leaned into beach bliss with Pantone’s color of the year, mocha mousse. The couple wanted their reception to feel beachy, laidback, yet still elevated and warm. Their florals featured all neutrals and greenery that added a timeless touch.

When selecting the Ritz-Carlton Amelia as their venue, the couple chose to embody a cool coastal aesthetic. Kate & Allen love to adventure when they aren’t in the office, and this destination seemed like the perfect fit to mix sun and sand with their black-tie festivities. The ceremony was designed with effortless floral baskets, backdropped by the stunning sunset and simple cross arbor, allowing the guests to soak in the spiritual energy of the ceremony surrounded by nature.

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Kate mixed whimsy with tradition when designing her gown. Featuring custom tulle sleeves and a sweetheart lace appliqué neckline, she was the vision of beachy bliss. This silhouette brought a fun modern skirt met with a romantic aesthetic that transformed into the evening with removable sleeves and a French bustle for dinner & dancing.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

As mentioned above, mocha mousse was an obvious choice for the wedding color and made each of the bridesmaids look their very best! Kate’s maid of honor, her sister Shelly, popped in a champagne satin gown that let her stand out in the procession subtly.

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The Ritz-Carlton showcased their very best selections of traditional entrees, with a coastal twist highlighted at cocktail hour. Guests were greeted with a 4-course menu of hit after hit.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Emily of EM Creative Floral designed a show-stopping array of floral table arrangements and installations that were a feast for the eyes everywhere guests turned. Still blending the theme of beach-chic, she created a timeless spread of whimsy that varied from table to table but still enhanced the reception space for a glamorous dinner.

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Kate & Allen shared their cake cutting center of the room, surrounded by guests. Their cake featured a simple, yet elegant 5-tier design with delicate orchids thoughtfully placed around the confection.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

The couple chose to share a hymn with their guests as the sun set and they received their first communion together. This moment was so special.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

The couple showcased a champagne tower beside the dance floor to kick off the festivities

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Kate’s parents never had the chance to share a first dance at their own wedding, so after all the formalities were complete, Kate brought her mother onto the dance floor to dedicate her bouquet and give her hand to Kate’s father for a dance.[/field]
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DeVoss Photography

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A Whimsical Spring Garden Party Wedding Filled With Southern Flair at RT Lodge

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”][/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

“I love color in all aspects of life, whether it be my clothes, home decor, and obviously when I started thinking about Joey and I’s wedding. I knew from the jump I wanted tons of color. The color palette was all shades of spring pastels, but I had my bridesmaids wear shades of light blue, green, and yellow. ” -Bride Delaney

“Garden Party/Colorful/Whimsical/Dreamy” Vibes. I pulled a lot from my style as inspiration for the wedding, as well as scouring Pinterest and TikTok to bring my visions to life. If you know me, I love a good statement piece (or pieces) in my outfits. I always tend to lean towards classic/vintage style with lots of pops of color and funky pieces, and I have a passion for curating my wardrobe and home decor. I’d say the inspiration for my wedding was a spring garden party with a southern flair. So between a few Pinterest boards and picking out florals and designs that Joey and I genuinely liked, everything fell into place from there.”

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“The fashion was very important to me, and I knew I wanted to have multiple outfit changes. I probably looked at thousands of white dresses while picking out everything I wore for the weekend. Shockingly, though my wedding ceremony dress was the easiest to pick out, I probably tried on less than 10 dresses total, and I chose mine at only the 2nd store I visited. I had dreams of wearing some sort of cape/tulle situation, and unfortunately for me, when I get an idea in my head, I have to execute it. I ended up finding this gorgeous tulle cape from Oliva Oceana Bridal on Etsy that was unreal. This look will probably be my favorite outfit I have ever worn in my life for the foreseeable future. I paired it with a Show Me Your Mumu white mini dress, Sam Edelman nude platform heels that touched the sky, and some big diamond statement earrings. It was a look.” -Bride Delaney

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

“Joey wore a custom suit Friday night and a custom tuxedo Saturday for the wedding. He worked with Chris Blowers at Greiner’s Fine Mens Clothing to get all of his looks together. Of course, he paired everything with his favorite cowboy boots, Tecovas.” -Bride Delaney on Groom’s Attire

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

Friday night’s rehearsal dinner featured focaccia, romaine salad, antipasto, lasagna, and a groom’s cake – traditional cannoli cake. The welcome party that followed offered guests passed arancinis, an antipasto station, and a cookie table showcasing mini cannolis, Italian sesame cookies, anisette sprinkle cookies, chocolate chip cookies, and Italian rainbow cookies as well as a celebratory bourbon and cigar bar by the outdoor fire pit. Green tomato thin pies, goat cheese and pear crostini, and oysters were passed after the ceremony during cocktail hour alongside the Bride’s favorite Aperol Spritz. A full bar was available all weekend long. The reception menu highlighted Lodge signatures – grilled hanger steak and buttermilk fried chicken served with Tennessee sourwood honey and jalapeno hot sauce. Brioche and jalapeno cornbread were served alongside house cultured butter and accompanied sides of apple salad, olive oil roasted potatoes, beet salad, sweet potatoes (with house yogurt, lime, and peanut), mac and cheese, slow roasted carrots, fresh green beans, and Southern favorite braised collard greens.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Vibrant, over-the-top florals were chosen in shades of pastel accented with bright yellow, hot pink, and blue to create a whimsical and dreamy vibe from the ceremony to the reception space. Beneath the Sperry Tent, massive, live trees in lush green and pink drew the eyes upward, accentuating the beauty of the space and set the tone for a stunning spring garden party. Classic taper candles and a white and wood checkerboard dance floor created a storybook atmosphere for an incredible night of dancing and celebration!

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The three-tiered wedding cake (in classic white vanilla cake with Swiss buttercream) was decorated with a monochromatic floral pattern, perfectly accenting the whimsical floral design of the reception space.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

“The night before the wedding, we had to move the Welcome Party inside at the last minute because of bad weather. The entire day leading up to the ceremony, it was cloudy and looked like the sky was on the verge of opening up. At 4 pm, as the String Trio was playing “Here Comes the Sun” and I walked to the back of the aisle with my Dad, the clouds completely disappeared and the sun made a gorgeous appearance just in time for my walk down the aisle. Everyone in my life knows I am not a crier, so much so that there were running bets if I was going to cry down the aisle. For months, I told people, “There is no chance I will cry walking down the aisle.” As the sun came out and the rush of emotions hit, I cried. A lot. It could not have been more special.” -Bride Delaney

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

“Last minute I decided to have one of my best friends, Lorin, do my makeup for the weekend. We have been friends for years and she did my makeup for high school prom 8 years ago, so this was really a full circle moment. I also flew in my hair stylists from Florida for the weekend. Alexis and her sister Ana do my hair, my mom’s, and my sister in law’s, so as extra as it seemed I am so happy we did this. I really feel like the getting ready time sets the vibe for the rest of the day, and I could not have gone into all the festivities in a better mood.” -Bride Delaney

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

“Joey and I met a decade ago at a New Year’s Eve party our freshman year of high school. In the least cliche way, we are high school (and college) sweethearts.” – Bride Delaney on how the couple met

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When to Start Shopping for Your Gown, and More Importantly – When to Stop!

Sooo, your S.O. has finally put a ring on it and now all you can think about is what you’re going to wear down the aisle. We totally get you – it’s one of the best parts of wedding planning! It can be so tempting to dive right into gown shopping as soon as your engaged–for some, even before it’s official! Let us break down the timeline for you so that you know exactly when you should start and stop shopping for your dream gown.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Larissa Cleveland Photography

1. Window-Shopping

These days window shopping is more metaphorical than literal. It can be anything from perusing magazines to fervently pinning to your secret gown inspiration board. However you window shop, just know that it is innocent enough and a totally normal and healthy thing to do. Browsing is a great way to understand what is out there and familiarize yourself with gown designers. It will also help you establish what you like and don’t like in a wedding gown. Be sure to make note of price points as well so you don’t fall in love with something that is completely out of your budget. Feel free to start window-shopping as soon as you’re engaged. This will allow you enough time to build up a great inspiration board for when you’re ready to tackle the real shopping.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Jenny Quicksall Photography

2. Scheduling Your Appointments

We recommend that brides start scheduling their appointments one month before you plan on shopping, which should be no later than one year before your wedding. You’ll want the one month buffer to allow time for family and friends to arrange travel (if you plan on bringing them to your bridal appointments). This buffer will also give you more flexibility in the dates/times of the appointments as most bridal boutiques book up weeks in advance. If you find that you are past the one year mark, don’t panic. Most boutiques offer weekday appointments that are not as hard to secure and some have waiting lists for those coveted weekend spots.

You will likely want to visit more than one retailer to try on gowns, so don’t plan on finding “the one” or commit to placing an order right away. Allow yourself one to two months to really think about your decision and make sure you are 100% certain before you make it official.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Jessica Grazia Mangia

3. When To Place Your Order

Wedding gowns are often made-to-order and take an average of six months to arrive at the boutique for you to pick up. You will need to allow one to two months for alterations. This means you should purchase your gown up to one year before but no later than eight months before your wedding. Be sure to ask the bridal consultant that you’re working with to confirm the lead time for your specific gown to make sure that it will arrive in plenty of time for your wedding date.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Sotiris Tsakanikas

4. When to Stop Shopping

Once you’ve placed the order for your gown, it is officially time to STOP SHOPPING. We know, it’s hard, but you don’t have to quit cold turkey. There’s still plenty of shopping to be done! Just stop shopping for your gown and start shopping for your bridal accessories like veils, shoes, jewelry, etc.

If you continue to look at gowns after you’ve made your decision, you risk giving yourself FOMO when the designers release their new collections. Just be confident in your decision and know that you are going to look incredible in the gown you chose on your wedding day!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Sally Pinera

5. The Best Times of Year to Shop

Just like regular fashion, bridal fashion has it’s seasons too. There are bridal fashion weeks in April and October where designers release new collections. The boutique owners attend the shows and place their orders for the coming season. Those gowns will be in stores in July/August and January/February. So, if you’re looking for the latest in bridal fashion, those are the best months to shop.

If you’re looking for a good deal, consider shopping in June and December. In these months, boutiques are having sample sales to make room for the new gown orders. These are also popular months for trunk shows. A trunk show is when a bridal line sends their new collection to a boutique for a short time and there is usually some sort of discount or other incentive for brides to order during that time frame.

PHOTOGRAPHER | Stephanie Brazzle Photography

6. What if You’re Already Past The Timeline

The timeline above is a recommendation to ensure the least amount of stress and most options for brides shopping for their wedding gown. If you’re already less than one year out from your wedding and haven’t started shopping yet, don’t panic–we’ve got you! Traditionally brides place an order for a gown at a boutique and there is a long turnaround time before your gown arrives at the boutique, but there are a few ways to circumvent that lead-time.

The first option is to buy from an online retailer like BHLDN who has wedding gowns in-stock in various sizes, making it possible for brides to order their gown online and have it delivered in days or weeks instead of months.

Let’s say you’re less than a year out, but you still have a few months before your wedding. Some designers offer a rush option so that you can still order from their regular collection but they will bump your order to the top of the line. When you are calling to schedule your bridal appointments, be upfront with your timeline. Ask if any of the lines they carry can accommodate your order before you schedule the appointment.

Another option is to purchase a gown at a sample sale. Sample sale gowns are usually sold as-is and are ready to take home within days if not the same day.

You will still need alterations with any of the speedier options. If you are on a really condensed timeline, most alterations specialists will have an option to place a rush on an order. It’s more expensive but it’s worth your peace of mind to know that your gown will be ready in time for your wedding.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Julie Livingston Photography

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Photography

Jenny Quicksall Photography

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Photography

Sotiris Tsakanikas

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An Upscale Spring Garden Party With East Coast Prep and California Ease at Sunstone Villa

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Main wedding color was pastel blue; complementary shades of lavender & lilac purple, periwinkle soft blush pink, ivory, white.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Bree and Blake described their wedding style as an upscale spring garden party mixed with east coast prep, but laid-back California vibes. The soft blue accents and watercolor illustrations in their invitation suite by Karli Strohschein Art set the tone for guests ahead of the celebration.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Bree selected a strapless gown with a fitted corset bodice and train designed by Chosen by KYHA. She accessorized with pearl accessories and a ruched tulle wrap, which added more beautiful texture to her bridal look! Tanya, lead stylist of Page Beauty, was also on hand throughout the wedding day to ensure Bree’s bridal look was flawless. Bree also changed into a mini dress with floral appliques to get more comfortable and party on the dance floor![/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

Bree’s five bridesmaids wore silk V-neck slip dresses in sky blue to complement the pops of blue throughout the wedding design.

[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Blake and his groomsmen rented black tuxedos and classic accessories from The Black Tux.[/field]
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Field To Table Events was on hand all weekend, delighting guests with an array of delicious meals during both rehearsal dinner and the wedding reception with the freshest local ingredients. As the wedding reception night went on, they even provided tasty late-night snacks, perfect for keeping the energy up on the dance floor.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The “coastal romance” vibes were carried throughout the celebration with springtime flowers in an array of pastel shades. The ceremony design was focused on colorful, spring florals by Third & Park, echoed in the reception decor and complemented with natural wood and rattan elements that also matched the beautiful neutral textures of Sunstone Villa itself. The seating installation by Wildhouse Ink displayed a stunning blue floral mural wall with two linen scrolls directing guests to their tables. More blue accents greeted Bree and Blake’s friends and family as they transitioned to the reception on the Villa’s back lawn. Blue linen napkins and lush floral arrangements in shades of lavender, periwinkle, soft blush, and ivory adorned the wooden dining tables. A focal point of the reception design was the lighting installation of woven pendants above the dance floor.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Bree and Blake got a small cake for their ceremonial cake-cutting moment from local bakery Enjoy Cupcakes. Guests were treated to Santa Barbara local favorite, McConnell’s Ice Cream, for dessert instead of traditional wedding cake.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Bree used her grandmother’s engagement ring and repurposed it by making the center stone into her necklace and the other stones her earrings for the wedding day (so special!).[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Blake and Bree were both the first siblings in their families to get married, so everyone was extra excited to help them celebrate!

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Page Beauty

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Karli Strohschein

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A Romantic Rustic Wedding With Modern Refinement at The Barns at Cooper Molera

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”][/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The bridesmaids wore flowing champagne-colored gowns that perfectly complemented the soft, bouncy florals in shades of ivory, cream, and white. The groomsmen kept things classic in sharp black suits, adding a sophisticated contrast that elevated the overall look. Every detail—from the floral arrangements to the bridal party styling—was carefully chosen to feel refined yet effortlessly romantic.

The vision for Alicia and Grant’s day was rooted in romantic, rustic elegance with a refined, modern touch. The Barns at Cooper Molera served as the perfect backdrop—offering a clean, neutral canvas that allowed every thoughtful detail to shine. With its weathered wood textures, open-air layout, and charming California character, the space blended effortlessly with the soft color palette and floral-forward design. From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere felt warm, inviting, and intimate—like a love letter to understated beauty and timeless celebration.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Alicia and Grant’s love story started back in high school, and their proposal was the perfect next chapter. So, Alicia was in her master’s program and was commuting from Reno every week to spend weekends with Grant. He always had something planned, but this time, he told her to “pack a nice outfit for dinner,” which immediately had Alicia wondering what was up. She wasn’t used to dressing up—being a grad student and all—so this felt a little out of the ordinary. As they were getting ready, Grant casually mentioned they were headed to Edgewood, a place they’d talked about as a possible wedding venue. Alicia immediately had a feeling she knew what was going on. They’d already picked out the ring, and she knew he’d probably been hiding it somewhere. Excitement was building! When they got to Edgewood, Grant kept saying they had dinner plans at 5, but he was so eager to get going. Alicia, thinking they’d grab a drink first (since Edgewood has this stunning bar overlooking the lake), suggested that, but Grant was adamant: “Let’s go to the beach first, we can get a drink later.” That was totally unlike him, so Alicia suspected something was up. They walked out to the beach, and without missing a beat, Grant dropped to one knee and proposed. Alicia says she has no idea what he said (because she blacked out in the moment 😅), but she knew it was perfect. Then, in the sweetest twist, their families, who had been hiding nearby, came out to join them for photos and tears of joy. It was all so magical. Afterward, they went to a steakhouse for a celebratory dinner with both families, and when they got back to their lakeside room, they were still in a bit of shock. They ordered room service—pizza and French fries (because, duh)—and took a bubble bath in the giant tub. It was the best mix of emotions, joy, and all the right details that made the proposal unforgettable.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Alicia’s gown from Swoon Bridal was a breathtaking blend of structure and softness. The fitted silhouette featured a corset-style bodice with delicate boning that added just the right amount of drama and shape. Cascading behind her was a stunning train, covered in oversized floral lace that felt both bold and romantic. But the true showstoppers? The ethereal tulle bows delicately tied at each shoulder—adding a soft, feminine touch that made the entire look feel whimsical and one-of-a-kind. It was the perfect dress for a bride whose style was equal parts elegant and romantic.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The bridesmaids brought effortless sophistication in their champagne-colored dresses from Bec & Bridge. Rather than opting for a single style, each bridesmaid wore a silhouette that felt true to her personality, creating a beautifully cohesive yet individualized look. The soft satin fabric and neutral hue tied everything together, adding to the refined, romantic aesthetic of the day while letting each woman shine in her unique way. It was modern, elegant, and perfectly in step with Alicia’s vision.

[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The groomsmen looked effortlessly sharp in classic black suits, a timeless choice that added a sleek contrast to the soft, romantic tones woven throughout the day. The simplicity of the look allowed the overall elegance of the wedding to shine while still feeling polished and intentional. It was the perfect pairing to the neutral palette and added just the right amount of formal flair to the celebration.

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One of the undeniable highlights of the day was the food—The Barns at Cooper Molera is known for having some of the best cuisine of any venue across California, and it did not disappoint. Guests were greeted with a beautifully styled grazing board overflowing with fresh veggies, seasonal fruits, nuts, and an artfully arranged selection of charcuterie. Passed hors d’oeuvres made their rounds and were impossible to resist—each bite more delicious than the last. Dinner featured a plated meal that was as stunning as it was satisfying, the kind guests will be raving about for years to come. And just when everyone thought they couldn’t eat another bite, the dance floor heated up and out came the late-night favorites: piping hot pizza and juicy cheeseburgers—a perfect way to fuel the fun well into the night.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The florals and décor struck the perfect balance between refined and romantic, with Cassia Foret bringing the vision to life through lush, airy arrangements in soft whites and creams. The entire space felt like a dream—effortlessly elegant, with florals paired alongside glowing candlelight that created the most magical ambiance. Chic Rentals added charm and comfort with gorgeous outdoor lounge setups, giving guests cozy corners to relax and take in the celebration. Two major guest favorites? The champagne wall and the espresso martini wall—each playful and stylish, with the tiniest white bows tied to every martini glass stem for the sweetest, most on-brand touch. And one of the most meaningful details of all: the seating chart, crafted from a collection of cheese and serving boards, each labeled with table numbers and guest names—lovingly DIY’d by the bride and her dad. It was personal, beautiful, and unforgettable.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The wedding cake was a stunning embodiment of simplicity and elegance, crafted by Icing on the Cake in Los Gatos, California. A single-tier, round cake was perfectly frosted in a soft white, with the words “Just Married” delicately written in matching white icing. The design was timeless, with vintage piping along the top and bottom edges, adding a touch of old-world charm. To complete the look, a cascading waterfall of fresh flowers by Cassia Foret draped beautifully over the cake, creating a romantic and natural finishing touch that tied in perfectly with the overall floral theme of the day.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]As guests entered cocktail hour, they were greeted by a playful and chic detail that set the tone for the entire celebration—espresso martini glasses hanging on a stylish wall, each adorned with a tiny white bow tied to the stem. The bows added the most charming touch, perfectly complementing the romantic, whimsical feel of the day. It was a sweet, unexpected detail that made a bold statement—inviting guests to indulge in a signature drink while immediately feeling the thoughtful, personal touches that Alicia and Grant had woven throughout their celebration.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

One detail that I absolutely loved was Alicia and Grant’s custom logo, created with their two initials in a sleek, modern design. It was a personal touch that appeared throughout the day, subtly woven into every detail of their celebration. From the invitations to the décor, it was a special way to make their day feel even more unique and reflective of their story. The logo brought a touch of sophistication to everything it graced, and its presence throughout the day felt like a beautiful signature of their love and commitment.

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Petit Bouquet

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Wild Love & Wanderlust

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A Tropical Glam Wedding Blending Modern Sophistication With Cabo’s Natural Beauty at Club 96

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”][/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

A refined palette of neutral tones and lush greens set the stage for Kayla and David’s wedding, seamlessly blending with the tropical elegance of Cabo. These hues accentuated the natural beauty of Club Ninety Six while adding a timeless and sophisticated charm to the celebration.

The couple envisioned a “Tropical Glam” wedding—where classy meets timeless elegance. Their decor choices were thoughtfully curated to complement the venue’s lush greenery, incorporating sophisticated white and green florals, modern candle accents, and a sleek tablescape with hand-painted green dinnerware. Every detail was designed to feel elevated yet naturally harmonious with the stunning Cabo surroundings.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Dave’s proposal was a perfectly orchestrated surprise in Palmilla, where he cleverly disguised his plan as a casual happy hour with family. As Kayla admired the ocean views, Dave knelt behind her, waiting for what felt like an eternity before she turned around—her first response: “Did you ask my dad?” It was an unforgettable moment, marking the start of their journey to saying “I do” in the very place where it all began.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Kayla stunned in a Rita Vinieris gown from Adorn Louisville Bridal Shop, exuding effortless elegance with a modern silhouette. The gown was a perfect blend of refined sophistication and contemporary charm, mirroring the couple’s wedding aesthetic.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bridesmaids wore a chic mix of Show Me Your Mumu and Revelry gowns, creating a beautifully coordinated yet dynamic bridal party look. The soft, flowing fabrics and neutral tones complemented the tropical setting while maintaining an air of understated glamour.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

David and his groomsmen embraced modern sophistication in custom Indochino suits. Their tailored looks balanced classic elegance with a fresh, contemporary feel—perfectly aligning with the overall aesthetic of the day.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]The culinary experience focused on fresh, local ingredients, highlighting the best of coastal flavors. A selection of signature cocktails and thoughtfully chosen wines complemented the menu, ensuring guests enjoyed an elevated dining experience. Later in the evening, Espresso Martinis were served, adding an extra boost to keep the celebration going late into the night.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Orchids, garden roses, and lush greenery took center stage, effortlessly blending with the venue’s natural beauty. Thoughtfully placed eclectic candle holders and deep green chargers added layers of depth and romance to the tablescape, while an acrylic surfboard seating chart paid tribute to the couple’s nickname, “The Waves.”

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The couple’s wedding cake was a modern and sophisticated four-tiered design, featuring smooth white buttercream with subtle textured detailing for a clean, refined look. Keeping with the wedding’s elegant and understated aesthetic, the cake sat on a gold-rimmed base and was surrounded by candlelight, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for the cake-cutting moment.

[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]Every musical selection was carefully curated to capture the essence of their love story, from heartfelt ceremony readings to a lively Kilometro band performance and an electrifying after-party DJ set by Dirty Fancy Boyz.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Every paper detail was a work of art, crafted by Katherine Jezek Designs. The menus and place cards featured a custom wedding crest, adding an intimate and personalized touch to the reception design.

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]A true nod to their “Waves” nickname, the couple designed a one-of-a-kind acrylic surfboard seating chart. This creative and stylish detail was a guest favorite, perfectly blending personality with elegance.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

To preserve every cherished moment, Kayla and David took time each morning to write down the details from the night before. This thoughtful ritual ensured that even the smallest, fleeting memories of their wedding celebration would be remembered forever.

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Amy Abbott Events

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A Timeless Tuscan Celebration Infused With Armenian Heritage at Villa Corsini a Mezzomonte

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The bride Svetlana had always dreamed of a wedding that felt timeless, elegant, and effortlessly romantic. When choosing the wedding palette, she wanted something that would blend seamlessly with the breathtaking Tuscan landscape yet still feel luxurious and refined. She found her answer in a combination of soft whites, muted greens, and touches of gold—a palette that spoke of purity, nature, and classic sophistication.

Svetlana and Yervant’s wedding at the historic Villa Corsini a Mezzomonte was a seamless blend of Armenian heritage and Tuscan elegance, a celebration where tradition met timeless Italian beauty. With the expert guidance of Natascia Zignani Weddings, they envisioned a day that honored their deep-rooted traditions while embracing the beauty of the place they had fallen in love with—Tuscany, with its rolling hills, timeless charm, and romantic atmosphere. The reception embraced a warm, intimate, and elegant aesthetic, with golden candlelit tables, delicate floral arrangements, and subtle nods to Armenian culture.

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Svetlana chose a timeless and elegant classic white wedding gown by renowned designer Edem Couture, a perfect reflection of her sophisticated style. The gown’s clean lines and exquisite tailoring highlighted her grace, while a striking detail stole the show: a long, ethereal transparent cape adorned with a stunning gemstone brooch, adding a touch of modern glamour and drama to the ensemble. Completing her bridal look, Svetlana slipped into a pair of exquisite Aquazzura shoes.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Galateo Ricevimenti catering offered a delightful mix of Tuscan flavors, starting with Burrata Gnudi and zucchini flowers, hearty options like Beef & Lamb and Tuscan pork fillet with truffle potatoes. The meal was paired with fine Tuscan wines, creating a perfect blend of local tradition and elegance.[/field]
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Simone Bertini, the floral designer, made white roses the heart of his arrangements, symbolizing the purity of new beginnings and the enduring promise of everlasting love. To elevate the reception’s ambiance, Simone introduced delicate touches of gold—from the refined chairs to the understated table accents—adding warmth and richness that harmonized beautifully with the softness of the florals.

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The wedding dessert was a classic Italian Millefoglie, layered with light Chantilly cream, almond brittle, and topped with fresh strawberries and wild berries. Svetlana and Yervant cut the cake in the enchanting gardens, their guests watching lovingly from the villa’s windows. The celebration continued with a dazzling champagne tower, where glasses were filled with bubbling champagne, sparking joy and celebration.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]In Armenian wedding traditions, one charming custom involves the groom placing the bride’s shoes on her feet, symbolizing his commitment to care for and support her throughout their marriage. This intimate moment often replaces the modern “first look,” as it is considered a meaningful gesture of love and responsibility. The act is sometimes accompanied by playful traditions, such as the bride’s family hiding the shoes and the groom having to “ransom” them with gifts or money, adding a touch of humor and joy to the celebration. This tradition beautifully blends symbolism, love, and cultural heritage, making it a cherished part of Armenian weddings.[/field]
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During the ceremony, the couple took part in the beautiful Armenian tradition of wearing crowns, known as “khoyt” or “crowns of unity.” These crowns, often intricately designed, symbolize the couple’s roles as king and queen of their new family, as well as their equal partnership and shared responsibility in marriage.

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