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

The Cutest Ways to Count Down to St. Nick’s Arrival

Advent Calendars have come such a long way since the mini drug store versions of my youth. Which I loved by the way. Poke a hole, grab a chocolate and you’re that much closer to the Santa Clause party. What’s not to love about that? If you’re on the hunt for something a bit more hand crafted and personalized, look no further than these 16 DIY versions for counting down to St. Nick.

DIY Advent Calendars

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DIY Advent Calendars

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Speaking of St.Nick, check out more Holiday inspired goodies…

Beautiful DIY Gift Wrap
Essentials for the Ultimate Holiday Survival Guide
11 Easy Ways to Save + Budget for Holiday Shopping

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Up Your Cold Weather Curb Appeal with this DIY Winter Wreath

Wreaths aren’t just for the holidays. We come from the camp that wreaths can adorn your door all year long if styled right. This pretty DIY from AvaFlora + Cadence Kennedy is super easy to recreate and bonus, it’s adorned with the loveliest velvet ribbon. So go ahead and get your wreath on with this winter version that will take your cold weather curb appeal to the next level.

Materials

Floral Clippers
Ribbon Shears
Wire
Green Floral Sticks
Grape Vine Wreath
2-3 Varieties of greens (either evergreens and eucalyptus or both!)
Pine Cones
Tallow Berries
Velvet Ribbon

Determine the shape of your design. Decide if you prefer a traditionally styled wreath or a design that is more organic and whimsical. The possibilities are endless so try to envision the direction of your design first. We love to create wreaths that are natural with an asymmetrical shape and using grape vine as a frame easily helps achieve that look.

Select your greens. We recommend mixing it up with different varieties of both evergreens and eucalyptus. Not only do they dry well they also have delicious fragrances. In this wreath we used a combination of coned cedar, shore pine, and eucalyptus with pods.

Select your embellishments. Elements such as pine cones, silver bell pods and tallow berries are some of our top favorites! They are seasonal, enhancing a natural, wintery look. If you are using pine cones it is helpful to wrap wire around the bottom of the pine cone, twist the wire tight, and then wrapping the wire to a green floral stick to create a stem.

Starting with your greens, insert 4-5″ worth of stem length into the weaving of the grape vines. Be sure to insert your greens on an angle so that the stems are secure. Once all of your greens are in place add your embellishments in groupings or clusters in a few spots throughout the wreath.

The last step is to finish off your design with some beautiful ribbon. Velvet ribbons are our go-to for the holiday season. We love to either tie the ribbons from the top or the bottom of the wreath with a simple knot, letting the streamers hang.

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Colorful Front Door Inspo

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Colorful Front Door Inspo

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Photography: Cadence Kennedy Photography Collection | Floral Design: AvaFlora

Proof That Embracing Your Natural Beauty on Your Wedding Day Is Key

When it comes to wedding day beauty, one things for sure… you’ll never regret going natural. Today’s gorgeous bride embraced her natural locks and kept her makeup look minimal – completely taking our breath away with her timeless style. It’s so important to be able to look back on your wedding photos in 30+ years and see, well… YOU! For tons of inspiration, including a fine art palette and floral magic from Esther Lamarche Design Floral, don’t miss the full gallery of imagery – all taken by Daria Lorman Photography!

From Daria Lorman Photography… This wedding inspiration was planned and designed by Daria Lorman and Esther Lamarche to inspire the couples thinking about a small private-estate wedding. Two gorgeous designer gowns with a touch of color and stunning embroidery, a modern and fresh make up and natural hair look are aimed to inspire future brides to add more fashion into their bridal looks and embrace their natural beauty. Isabelle Boireau created for our bride a look that was inspired by black royalty. Our bride is a modern woman proud of her African heritage, boldly sporting her natural hair, and wearing a natural skinlike makeup. She is the Queen of the day and we wanted to let her shine.

The first bridal morning look features a blush pink dress from a talented French designer – Geraldine Daulon. It was completed with handmade hairpins and a mono-earring with flowers that look like if they were made of glass. Tatiana Ashakova, the creator of Beretk! Ah combines her work as bridal stylist and incorporates most fashionable features into her collections. They all differ and you will find many unconventional techniques and materials. The second bridal look features an exquisite Myoo Couture designer dress with a touch of yellow color, which perfectly complemented our bride’s skin color. The look was completed with beautiful crystal earring from a Swiss designer – Della Bella Gioielli and a gorgeous crown by Beretk! Ah.

Our bride wore a pair of Belle Belle shoes, which were her “something blue”. Esther Lamarche, the floral designer, worked with a fine art color palette: cream lemon, champagne, blush, cappuccino and soft green. She created a fine art bridal bouquet. The Belle Époque vintage Parisian kiosk in the garden was perfect for the ceremony. Esther enhanced the look and transformed into the most dreamy ceremony setup with beautiful assimetric flower frame and aisle floral arrangements. The dinner table was placed in front of the main staircase, decorated with florals for the occasion. It featured linens and vintage rentals from Madame de la Maison and stationery by Atelier Preszburger. Meri from Cakes by Meri surprised us with the cake inspired by our bride’s wedding dress.

She used a concentration of techniques to recreate couture elements of the dress on the wedding cake. It was definitely worth it’s own floral decoration. Esther Lamarche and her team created a wild floral frame for the cake on a fireplace. It’s mango and passion fruit flavor was the perfect sweet note to end the day! Daria Lorman perfectly captured all the details of the day in her romantic style and Cedric Durand created the beautiful video. The wedding day usually passes so quickly that we are sure the newlyweds would be delighted to relax and enjoy some quality time by the pool on the Day-after. Our couple took a moment of relaxation for two in the swimming pool, which was captured by Daria Lorman. And Esther Lamarche enhanced the romantic atmosphere by adding a few flowers in the pool.

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Petit Bouquet

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A Pastel Farm Wedding With Whimsical Details and Mini Horses

It’s official, garland-adorned miniature ponies are the most adorable wedding guest we’ve ever laid on eyes on. If you’re in need of a major mood booster, today’s whimsical affair from Charmed Events Group is it. From Tango and Foxtrot’s colorful pastel floral arrangements to a “happily ever after” escort card display we’ll be obsessing over for weeks to come. For all the inspiration this day has to offer, don’t miss out on the full gallery – taken by the always lovely Jen Huang Photography.

From Charmed Events Group… Because we all need a little sunshine and happiness in our lives, what’s not to love about having the most adorable mini horses at a colorful and modern, farm wedding?

From the beginning, L+J wanted to have their wedding exude in color and happiness, with all details chosen to evoke just that.

They chose a color palette of sherbert hues accented by a dusty blue that brought just the right amount of whimsy to their day.

They chose a modern, equestrian farm as their venue and their ceremony took place in front of the pond that was on site, surrounded by olive trees.

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Photography

Jen Huang Photography

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Deck the Halls With Style Me Pretty’s 2020 Holiday Guide for Him, Her, and Everyone Else on Your List

As we head into the most ‘wonderful time’ of the year, we’re feeling like it hits very differently this time around. Social distancing and winter season worries exacerbated by a global pandemic don’t exactly bode well for the kind of merry we’re used to, but gift giving can help bring out the good vibes. If you got engaged and started planning a wedding this year, stepped into newlywedhood with your quarantine partner for life, vowed to your nearest and dearest that you’d be there for them forever and always and made a pact to [bridal] party with them in good times and in bad, or became friends with a whole new crew that will help you say ‘I Do,’ you’ll want to go about your presents a little more thoughtfully this holiday season. After all, a bride’s splash of sparkle can’t be touched…

We’ve poured over the must-have lists and checked them way more than twice, to curate lots of favorites that we hope you’ll find SO nice. From sweet buys for your bridesmaids to gifts your mom will love, a couple things to hype up your hubby and not one single pair of gloves #notthisyearthankunext. And don’t forget to browse our Shop, for a double dose of [wedding] pretty, the finds are cute and creative, timeless and trendy, and quite a few are witty!

Start shopping for your squad right now, and take advantage of all the Black Friday and Cyber Monday savings on site! Your wedding will thank you 😉.

Photo by D’Arcy Benincosa

(Oh! And if you’re not the bride, but buying for one, we’ve got lots of ideas for you, too!)

In fact, that’s exactly where we’ll start…

For the bride who has just gotten her ring

Once the dust has settled and your friend, daughter, sister, cousin, etc. has come down from cloud nine, firmly planting her feet into the role of the bride, she’ll want to get a taste for planning. It’s not great to overwhelm her, of course, but helping her start her bridal journey with a mix of things that are fun and functional is very #bestbridesmaidever-ish.

Trinket Dish

It’s not often that a newly-minted bride-to-be will want to take off her ring, BUT when she does, make sure the place she puts her bling is beautiful. This Molly Hatch daisy trinket dish is so pretty and it doesn’t scream ‘bride’ either, so she can use it well beyond her engagement.

Wedding Planner

Our bliss-ensuring blush bridal planner kit comes with a TON of checklists, timelines, and worksheets to help brides stay buttoned up with all their I Do to-dos. We’ve made sure to include everything that couples need to get hitched without a hitch, with enough room for notes that might even make meaningful keepsakes for future brides.

Guides to Plan Like a Pro

Want to sweeten things up a little more? Fill her planner with ALL of the Style Me Pretty Ultimate Planning Guides. If you don’t already know about our wedding planning guides, they’re the digital resource for everything your bestie bride needs to know in order to plan like a pro.

Tissues to Dry Her Tears

There will be so many emotionally-charged occasions for your bride-to-be (happy, sad, good, and bad), but ensuring her bag is always stacked with tear-worthy tissues is the trademark of a true best friend. We like how ours are both encouraging and entrancing!

A Cute Tumbler for Everywhere She Goes

Engagement season coinciding with the winter/holiday season is sweet, but a new ring and the flu aren’t exactly the best combo (and either is all the abovementioned crying). Hydration is key, but make it fashion with a tumbler that says it all. We love the confetti and the gold calligraphed “Bride,” not to mention, just seeing that word on the regular is enough to incite smiles and consequent wellness (a happy bride is a healthy bride, after all).

A Coloring Book for Brides

And yes, she needs it. Adult coloring books are total stress and sanity savers, and we can absolutely envision her breaking out this bundle when she feels her [bride]zilla coming in HOT. Now granted, a wedding coloring book on its own probably doesn’t sound like a Christmas miracle, but when you package it with a festive bottle of ONEHOPE bubbly etched with a ‘Cheers to You!’ message for the happy couple, it’s gold.

For the bride who is starting to imagine her day

Once your bride-to-be has all of the big-ticket things on her tying-the-knot to-do list checked off, she’ll definitely start thinking about her unique day and all of the details she’ll want to come together. So, in addition to offering your time (which will no doubt be cherished), you can get gifts that turn her aisle style-aspirations into reality. Details matter and these gifts deliver big on that end…

A Box That Brings All of Her Day-Of Detail Shots to Life

Details can be overlooked when planning a wedding, and just saying that makes our hearts sad, because we can’t get enough of them. That’s why we’re ecstatic that something like this heirloom embellishments box exists for brides who want to level up their wedding details photography. From vintage French laces and ribbons, to silk flowers and hand-made appliques, these treasured and exclusive heirlooms from the Claire Pettibone Atelier have been carefully arranged into inspiring assortments that make flat lays infinitely more magical. If you’re a Maid of Honor or even a wedding photographer or planner who is close friends with the bride, this gift is all kinds of amazing.

A stunning Guipure lace mask is a wonderful idea, too, especially if your bride is getting married sometime soon. If she needs to wear a mask, it might as well be beautiful.

Some Signage to Make Their Suites Even Sweeter

Her dress isn’t the biggest part of her day, but it’s still super important. She’ll need to keep it protected, clean, primped and polished, so gift her a hanger that will let her dress or gown shine in all those detail shots. Our simple wooden hangers aren’t overwhelming, they aren’t pretentious, they’re just oh-so cute, especially the silhouetted white dress! And even if her guy won’t be getting ready with a whole lot of fanfare (maybe just some bourbon with his bests), he still deserves to have his suite feel special. His entourage is high key important, too. Really, they can hang…

A Lovely Piece of Decor That Will Look Great Above Their Sweetheart Table

Engagement gifts that start with ‘LOVE’ will always go over well, and any bride-to-be would be thrilled to have something like this to hang above her sweetheart table – especially if it will be positioned near a wall and not freestanding. The hoop design is larger than life and really puts things into perspective about why you are all there: love, of course. We’d file this away for micro wedding decor ideas that make a major difference, plus once the wedding day is done, your newlyweds can save this for home decor (we’re imagining this hung in a baby girl’s boho nursery, with pretty greenery and silk blooms… but that’s just us!)

Photo by Sarah & Ben Photography

If you’d classify yourself as more sass and snark than sentimental and sweet, then you can instead opt for something a little more lit. Our modern neon ‘don’t go thirsty’ sign is on-point for anywhere a bride and her girls are getting ready the morning of the wedding. And afterwards, it can shine in her home office, right above that gold metallic bar cart…

For the bride who is prepping her pretty for that perfect day

A Clean New Skincare Routine

For a bride who will be getting married some time next year, waking up on January 1st will feel like day one on her ‘countdown to bride.’ With a fresh start ahead, it’s kind of the best time to jumpstart a healthier beauty routine, because #resolutions and because minimalism and natural beauty are so important to a modern bride. We’ve fallen in love with the brand-new Lauren Conrad Beauty skincare line which includes cleansers, toners, oils, and creams designed to nourish the skin and keep both body and face hydrated, balanced, and refreshed. Like the rest of LC’s beauty collection, the formulas are vegan, cruelty-free, ethically-sourced, certified-Clean and Peta-approved, that way a bride can feel good about what she’s putting on her skin. And since a fresh and flawless face will be her ultimate canvas on her wedding day, starting the prepwork early will pay off gorgeously when she glams up or keeps things simple on game day (nope, vows day!)

… Also, the bottles and cream jars are beyond pretty, which, going back to that earlier point about styling for the wedding morning, makes them both a useful and phenomenally photogenic gift!

The Secret Weapon to Beyond-Wow Brows

A fresh face can only be made better by one thing: perfect brows. Every bride wants them and, to be quite honest, she should have them! If you’ll be buying for your best friend, sister, sister-in-law, get her something that seriously can’t be topped (it’s luxe at $225, but consider this a holiday, birthday, and engagement gift all in one). When we say that, we’re talking about LA-based, celebrity eyebrow artist Kristie Streicher’s Essentials Grooming Kit. Made with Kristie’s tried and true tools that she’s been using for over 20 years to create her trademarked Feathered Brow™ all over the world, the kit contains her favorite Rubis Classic Gold Slant Tweezers, Rubis Classic Gold Scissors and a custom Kristie Streicher Spoolie Eyebrow Brush all housed in a leather case hand-stitched and made in Los Angeles. It was inspired by a vintage manicure set from the 1930’s and it’s literally to die for.

For the newlyweds who just got married

Things to give each other:

For her:
Any bride who might have just gotten married could be feeling some twinges of the post-wedding blues this holiday season. That’s why we love a gift idea that celebrates her new status and comes from the person she loves most. The Alex and Ani New Beginnings Necklace is the perfect thing to say ‘I love you, babe, here’s to us and a very happy future.’

For him:
Meaningful things will always matter to men, of course they will, but they also love things that indulge their own obsessions. Like sneakers. Hey, IYKYK. The Essential Shoe & Sneaker Cleaning Kit is a sleek, minimal, and affordable ($39.99) gift option from RESHOEVN8R, the go-to sneaker brand for hypebeasts and stylish sneaker owners. Safe on most materials and free from dye, the kit includes an all-natural solution, a microfiber towel, and 3 different bristle brushes in a 100% reusable and/or recyclable package. It’s very sexy, in our opinion, and also reminds us of something David Rose would stock in his Schitt’s Creek apothecary. #obsessed.

A Stylish and Trendy Herb + Oil Infuser

Hear us out: In years past, cool pour-over appliances and fancy espresso machines were among the ‘IT’ things to get a newly-married couple. Nowadays, the mood is all about infusion (food and beauty). LĒVO II ($199 on Amazon) is the first infuser to streamline herbal infusion from start to finish, meaning you don’t need to be a trained chef, beautician, or chemist to enjoy the benefits of herbal infusion. From salad dressings to scented candles, there’s no limit to what you can create!

For the bridal party: everyone who’s special in the couple’s life

This year, we’ve probably all seen our favorite people way less than we hoped we would. It’s been a real bummer, but TG technology exists to keep us connected and close. What we love about our Style Me Pretty Collection is that there are so many little things (let’s also commit to adding “something little” to the old, new, borrowed, and blue adage) that you can gift to your guys and girls WHENEVER you feel like it. You don’t have to wait for the holidays to send a card or a travel tumbler that says ‘You’re my bridesmaid and I FN love you!!’ That being said, you can give ‘traditional’ bridal party gifts, like personalized flasks or etched glasses to the group if you see anyone this winter. If you couple the presents with a request for photos of them using their gifts IRL, you can collect and compile all of the clips into a video that you can stream the morning of your wedding…

And a few things that every wedding gift guide can’t go without…

Pajamas
One of our favorite fashion and loungewear brands for brides and bridesmaids, Plum Pretty Sugar, just dropped their latest print collection – Encanto Coast – and we are absolutely ADORING it. The mint, cream, and nude palette is so relaxing and transportive, and even if physically we’re all still chilling in PJs on our couches, we can be virtually and emotionally somewhere else. We’re going going, back back, to Cali Cali… just sayin!

Photo by Jon Cu Photography

And stuffed animals

If you’ve got a cutie cohort on board for your wedding, you’ll also definitely want to show them some love.

For the girls:

Style Me Pretty flower girl baskets ensure your littlest ladies have the prettiest place to put their petals. Imagine all the tulle, sparkle, and sass shimmying down that aisle and try not to smile. Spoiler alert: it can’t be done!

For the boys:

And for the boys, Style Me Pretty ring bearer pillows give your mini misters a really beautiful platform for two of the shiniest parts of your special day. Ring security reporting for duty!

And we love the idea of teaming your mini squad’s things with something plush. The Little Market’s plush stuffed animals will entertain toddlers and tinies all winter long AND provide them with comfort and cuddles just in case they get nervous for their big trip down the aisle. Each of their pieces is hand-knit and hand-sewn by artisan women in rural communities of Peru using locally sourced materials. The best!

For the wedding superheroes that they are

If you’re really feeling generous (and thoughtful), this ‘Thank You So Much’ curated gift tote says it all. We love this as a wonderful token of appreciation for your vendors for their endless support, advice, and direction when it pertains to your best day ever.

Soft & Romantic Vibes For This Couple’s ‘Second Wedding’ At Lairmont Manor in Washington!

College sweethearts, Sam and Evelyn tied the knot before they graduated college when they eloped, so on their 5th anniversary they decided to do it again, but this time in front of their friends and family at Lairmont Manor. With soft florals crafted by Gather Design Company and gorgeous signage by The Fancy Cat Studio, the couples event planner Simply by Tamara Nicole put together their fabulous fete and Kerry Jeanne Photography captured all of the romantic details, love and the brides insanely beautiful wedding gown with cascading pearl buttons (insert heart eye emoji.) Check it out below….and the shoes…I promise you they’re that good.

From Kerry Jeanne Photography…Sam and Evelyn met at the first week of their freshman year in college and have been together ever since. Five years ago, in “the most rebellious decision we have ever made,” they got married before they graduated from college. Though the little elopement was perfect in every way for Sam and Evelyn, they always felt like something was missing, having not shared their joy with the important people in their lives. On their five year anniversary, they hosted an intimate vow renewal ceremony at Lairmont Manor to gather with family and friends and celebrate their marriage.

Sam and Evelyn hired Gather Design Company to bring their vision for their marriage celebration to life. In a warm yet soft color palette of amber, mustard, tan, peach, warm blush, rosy brown, honey, deep gold, soft taupe, and warm cream, the design was floral heavy and featured upscale details. With the lush gardens and old-world charm of Lairmont Manor as their backdrop, Gather designed a floral-lined ceremony aisle and accent arrangements around the stately fountain.

Dinner was set on one long table under an outdoor glass pergola with subtle rose-colored linens, modern stoneware plates and delicate glassware, and contemporary flatware. Menus were designed on handmade paper by August and White Designs, in a nod to the historical Lairmont Manor, and acrylic signage and place cards by The Fancy Cat Studio brought a modern touch to the tables. The cake was made by Saltadena and adorned with complementary flowers. Rentals from St. James Specialty Rentals, BBJ Linen, CORT Party Rental, and Pedersen’s Event Rentals completed the reception design.

Evelyn wore a striking off-the-shoulder Danielle Frankel Studio gown with large pearls and Aquazzura pumps. Her look was completed with beauty by Yessie Libby Makeup Artistry.

Classic Architecture Meets Modern Fine Art Elegance at The Hartwood Stables

Who else is spending many nights staying up too late binging The Crown right now? We can’t help it – we’re obsessed. Anything to relive that royal wedding. Today’s stunning editorial from Exhale Events is giving us major english countryside stone castle vibes. Muted moody hues set the tone while unexpected textures and patterns throughout the design allowed for an element of surprise. Our favorite part? The lighting. Edison bulbs were strung together and hung from arched metal structures over the reception table creating an ultra-romantic display. See it all at the full gallery – captured by Lauren Renee Photography!

From Lauren Renee Photography… There is so much beauty in old venues and the history behind them. The Hartwood Stables belonged to a prominent family in Pittsburgh for several years before it was turned over to the county. It is truly a hidden gem and one of the few places that remain in the area that maintain classic architectural lines and building elements of classic stone. The charm of the location takes you to another time and place. When we (Lauren and Nicole) saw the venue, we knew we needed to showcase the beauty of the property, but we wanted to take a refined romantic approach to the shoot with modern touches that showcases how today’s bride can take an old location and infuse it with new trends.

Our color palette focused on muted tones of traditionally bold colors and a blend of darker and light hues for a modern approach. Our table settings also pulled in more patterns and tones that couples might not think to put together, however fused seamlessly in the setting. The softer elements came into place with a romantic stationery suite and designer gown from Galia Lahav. The raw edged stationery and scenic envelope liners weaved in such delicacy while the flowing tulle fabric on the wedding dress added a dreamy ethereal touch. Nestled beneath the trees of the venue, we set up the ceremony.

To not take away from the beauty of the area itself, we kept the decor minimal; utilizing black mid modern chairs and florals which really were a focal point. Our vision for the floral designs was brought alive through wild, organic structures including an elevated overflowing vase as the backdrop of the ceremony and a blossoming archway entrance. In keeping with the feminine florals and architectural details, Alex Robba Cake hand-painted blue flowers along with tile that mimicked stone in a modern, yet timeless cake design. The look was topped off with the prettiest sugar flowers that added such grace. Not far from the cake display was the family style tablescape. Each place setting had a classic set up, but it was each piece that put a fresh spin to a rather timeless approach. Saffron watercolor patterned plates sat atop one another with stiletto shaped black horned flatware gently placed beside them. Wooden and ceramic textures also appeared throughout the table design to provide an earthy depth and dimension to the details. However the lighting is easily the trendiest and most unique part of the aesthetic. Edison bulbs were strung together and hung from arched metal structures over the table. EF Lighting worked their magic and it really provided the perfect glow! With the quaint setting, stylish details, and classic elegance, this old-meets-new wedding inspiration offers a little something for every bride and groom!

A Wedding Planner’s 3 Simple Ways to Notify Your Guests of Your New Wedding Date

It seems nowadays we start a lot of conversations by “what a year this has been” or “I hope you’re well in these unprecedented times”. Twenty-twenty has been a whirlwind to say the least. Along with the wedding industry, 2020 couples have really weathered the storm. We’re at the point where some may have postponed their wedding not once, some twice and even thrice. Like what I did there?

To make the postponement process easier I wanted to provide you with some easy ways you can keep your guests abreast of all changes to your wedding date, whether you’ve set a new one, or not.

Sarah Shuttle Creative

1. Wedding Website Updates

At one point wedding websites were super trendy and allowed you to tell your love story as well as post cute pictures of you and your spouse-to-be for all your guests to see. The great thing about websites is they can be updated quickly and once your guests have the link they can bookmark and visit the website as often as necessary. Create a section called “wedding updates”, and as the date for your big day changes or any details need to be tweaked, update the page and also send out a quick email to your guest list letting them know new information is available. Some wedding websites also have an app where you can push notifications to your guests phones, pretty cool, right?

Rebecca Yale Photography

2. An Un-save the Date Card

While this may be a little more costly, many couples prefer to use traditional methods to advise guests of any changes to their weddings dates. Wording on an un-save the date card could include:

“Ooops, COVID changed our plans but stay tuned for our new date”,

“Same wedding, same guests, different date” or;

“ Save our new date, the party’s going to be great”

Work with your stationer to create unique wording for your specific situation, you can also give your guests a heads up that they’ll be receiving a wedding update via the mail.

3. Email Blasts

While normally email marketing software is used for businesses, a great way to keep everyone on top of your wedding changes is sending out an email blast. The benefit of using software is you can track who has read the email, use templates as well as store the email list so that if you need to send further updates it’s all easily accessible. Be sure to always collect email addresses from your guests when compiling their information and this will make it easier to get your lists setup for future use.

With all the uncertainty regarding gatherings across the globe, these tips should provide you with a quick and easy way to keep loved ones up to date and in the know when it comes to your big day. Hopefully, changing your date more than once won’t be necessary, but if it is, these methods of updating your guests should have you covered!

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Rebecca Yale Photography

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The Perfect Setting for a Modern Thanksgiving…or Friendsgiving

Whether celebrating Thanksgiving with friends, family or both, this holiday inspiration will give your festivities a fresh, modern kick. The ladies of Beijos Events know how to set the perfect tablescape and it shines through with this outdoor affair loaded with steal-worthy details like a moody, autumnal color palette, pops of copper and bohemian textiles. Even if you’re not lucky enough to do thanksgiving alfresco, you can pull this inspiration indoors for an equally lovely gathering. See the full shindig captured by Riley Starr right here.

From Beijos Events…One of the best things about living in California is the fact that we get to be outside all year round. Including the special days like Thanksgiving and Christmas! Often times you can find us barbecuing on these holidays! Each year my friends and I like to get together and have a Friendsgiving, it’s such a great kick off to the holiday season. This year we took advantage of the great weather and my friend’s newly renovated backyard! It was the perfect setting to gather us all and enjoy some delicious food and drinks.

One of the things we don’t like about these get togethers is the clean up. I came across L’Entramise, a beautiful disposable line that was perfect for our table setting. Their pieces have a sleek and pretty look and are so well crafted. The best part was at the end of the night we could just toss everything away and not worry about the dishes!

Our friends at Colette’s Catering designed a menu with a modern take on Thanksgiving dinner. We had a delicious salad, roasted veggies and squab instead of turkey. They also put together a killer cheese plate, which every party needs in my opinion! And a delicious dessert that had us all happy at the end of the. night. One Hope wine helped us pair each course with the perfect wine as well!

For the details we turned to Olive & Blooms for florals and Miss Multee for the invite, menus and place cards. We used the colors of the tabletop and added in some deep berries and copper to finish it off. The beautiful florals lined the table and really brought a fall feel to the event, with a fresh and modern take. And everybody kept talking about the beautiful hand written menus, they were an ombre gold to copper that perfectly shined all night.

Each year at this time I get a bit sentimental, it means another year is coming to an end. But ending it with great friends is always a good idea, and that’s why Friendsgiving is so special.

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

Petit Bouquet

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Modern Farmhouse Wedding Inspiration Complete With a Vintage Truck Abounding in Blooms

“Neutral, organic, with a touch of whimsy”… a few words to describe today’s wedding inspiration planned by E Events Co. perfectly defined by Carlie Statsky. If you’re looking for a modern farmhouse venue for your microwedding – look no further than Seascape Flowers’ brand new property in sunny California. The surrounding nature makes for the perfect backdrop for your ceremony while the all-white barn serves as the most insta-worthy reception spot! To see all the inspiration from this day, including custom wooden arches made by Statsky Design, don’t miss out on the full gallery!

From Carlie Statsky… Our team drew inspiration from Seascape Flowers’ new modern farmhouse venue for intimate, outdoor events, as well as the surrounding nature, so everything was kept neutral and organic with a touch of masculine whimsy for our two handsome grooms.

Some of the special features included a bold and dramatic ombre boutonniere to compliment the dusty rose tuxedo jacket from The Black Tux, vintage Rolex watches from Fourtane, custom wooden arches made by Statsky Design that were beautifully covered in floral by Seascape Flowers, an eclectic yet cohesive mix of rentals from Revival Rentals, (including a leather lounge set up for enjoying some whiskey cocktails) a vintage yellow pickup truck filled and overflowing with floral and greenery, and a beautiful tables cape designed by E Events Co with amazing cane black chairs and earthy place settings from Theoni, complimented by more organic floral.

It was such a fun day spent celebrating these two grooms in love and the beauty of nature, and good design!

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Abby Larson’s Playbook for Easy, Effortless Gatherings

Here’s the deal. It doesn’t matter if you are entertaining indoors or out, in a pandemic or in the blissful time before, with 25 people or with 5. The foundation of a successful gathering is always the same. So, as we enter a holiday season that looks and feels so very different from years past, it’s comforting to know that the basic rules of entertaining will always stay essentially the same. You might need to invest in a heater or package up your desserts individually, but for better or worse, a successful get together is one that looks pretty, celebrates something delicious, invites coziness and requires little to no stress.

photo: white loft studio

Get Organized Ahead of Time. This is the numero uno, baby. The guests, the menu, the timing, the serve ware. I write everything down and pull all supplies + decor out ahead of time. Sounds labor intensive but it really only takes a few minutes and will save you a lot of stress on the day of. If you are hosting Thanksgiving or a holiday dinner, this rule is the end all be all of rules. Channel your inner Type-A friend and just do it. The more detailed, the better. I usually work backwards from 1. how many my table will seat and 2. what time I want dinner to be served. It all falls into place once I determine those two things.

photo: leila brewster

Use What You Have. First and foremost, the frantic purchases in the days before a party are what usually send both pre and post party stress over the edge. While you have seen or used your own plates and napkins and flatware a million times, and might have serveware-fatigue, your guests haven’t. So take a solid inventory. Think about what you can highlight (your favorite wine glasses), what you can repurpose (a cake stand makes for a great platform for candles or appetizers) and what you can dust off (those throw pillows that haven’t seen the light of day since last Fall).

photo: white loft studio

Transform (or Make) What You Need. Look both outdoors and in for little moments that you can transform to keep your costs down. I regularly spray paint wispy leaves from our yard in a pretty copper color. I almost always use ribbon to wrap the flatware atop the napkins. Pretty baguettes in baskets make for gorgeous centerpieces or favors placed on each place setting. Coasters can turn into bases for candles that line the table. Ribbon can be puddled down the center of the table to create a faux runner. The ideas and options are endless.

photo: leila brewster

Consider the Elements. I promise you, if you don’t consider the elements – the weather, the lighting, the environment – the party won’t be nearly as successful. I have a little stockpile of candles + a few lanterns that I always pull out for outdoor entertaining. I have tiny bug sprays for the summer months and pillows/blankets for the colder months. Really think about how the general elements will play into your guests’ experience and plan for everything.

photo: leila brewster

Practicalities Matter. We’re talking where your guests will put any trash or disposables, who will refill drinks and appetizer trays, who will welcome the guests in, who will make sure the music stays on and at the right volume. All of this can and should be planned ahead and while it sounds like a lot, it totally isn’t. I tuck a little trash can behind a brick wall in our yard. I keep a pitcher of wine + water outside so guests can refill themselves. I ask my husband or daughter to greet guests. It can be simple but making sure these little details are cared for, will 100% turn a clunky party into a perfect party.

Make Some, Buy Some. If you try to make every last element of the dinner, you will go insane. Your stress level will be hard core and you won’t enjoy the party. My general rule is the make one super-star dish and either cheat the rest or buy the rest. By cheating, I simply mean buying pre-made pie dough for handpies with a gourmet ice cream, doing a super simple app like baked cream cheese + goat cheese with crackers, piling a bunch of pretty branches from my yard in a pitcher instead of doing florals. A good rule of thumb? Cheat your way through the beginning and end, and create a star in the middle. It’s the Jan to your Marcia.

photo: leila brewster

Have a Focal Point. For me, it’s usually a pretty centerpiece. Something lovely that distracts from the simplicity of the table settings. It could also be a beautiful charcuterie board or adorable pillows set on every chair, a firepit with s’more ingredients, fun lawn games. Anything that your guests’ eyes immediately go to means that they likely won’t notice the more understated moments throughout the rest of the party.

photo: white loft studio

Keep the Kids Entertained. If you are having kids, this is a BIG DEAL. Kids – and I have three so I’m not talking smack – can make it impossible for 1. you to keep the party going smoothly and 2. allow any guests that don’t have children to really have solid conversation. So having a few activities is always a good idea. Even just setting out coloring pages and crayons goes a long, long way.

photo: leila brewster

Make it Cozy. I have this annoying tendency to look for a place to sit no matter where I am. The DMV. My kids’ school. In line at the grocery. I’m always looking for a place to rest my rear. So I have made it a rule to make sure there are always plenty and more chairs to go around and that each chair feels soft and inviting. Even if it’s one of my wooden adirondack chairs. A pillow and a cozy throw go a long way for upping the comfort factor. But more than that, bringing in great music, pretty candles, curating your guest list to include only lovely people…these are all apart of the cozy factor for a party.

Try to Charm Them. Learned from grandmothers past and present, adding a little something fun or whimsical to your gathering is so so important. It makes people laugh, it becomes a conversation piece. At my in law’s anniversary dinner, we had little cuddling flamingo salt and pepper shakers on the table. I often put little bowls of curled paper conversation starters out for people to share. Sometimes, my kids will create place cards for everyone complete with silly pictures. A party that doesn’t take itself too seriously is a party that I want to attend.

A Monogrammed Floral Arbor That’s About to Go Viral on Pinterest

Today’s styled shoot planned by The Design Agency at Magnolia Way brings wedding personalization to a whole new level. The darling couple exchanged vows under a custom-built arch that emulates the grand doorway framing the venue, adorned with a gorgeous wedding monogram created by Inquisited. After the “I do’s”, guests enjoyed an intimate candle-lit reception beneath cascading florals by Violet Rose Floral as a harpist played in the background… I mean, how dreamy is that?! To see all the inspiration this day has to offer – check out the full gallery of details captured by Lynn Dunston.

From The Design Agency… Inspired by wanting to tell the story of black love, I designed this event to showcase the truth and beauty of black people. A simple and elegant color palette of charcoal grey, cream and taupe with accents of gold. The ceremony features a modern arch backdropped by the beautiful lake at Magnolia Way. The custom-built arch mimics the grand doorway framing the venue. Guests were treated with a stunning waterfront view as the ceremony took place, with the arch perfectly surrounding the couple.

Cherry blossoms adorned the sides of the arch, which represent a time for renewal. They were accompanied by the most stunning roses from Grace Rose Farm. The custom monogram designed by Inquisited sat atop the arch, an element that appears throughout the event. Cocktail hour, to me, is the optimal time to entertain the guests. The highlight of the cocktail hour was the custom-built bar, backdropped by a stunning Van Gogh cherry blossom wallpaper that added depth and texture to the structure. The cast iron bar features the monogram designed by Inquisited accented by more cherry blossoms and cream florals. The backdrop and the bar together created an interesting three dimensional focal point to the cocktail hour.

A full-floral arbor arch over the table design created a romantic and luxe focal point for guests to enjoy. The cascading florals above the guests as well as the large floral centerpieces created stunning environment for the reception. The table design was a mix of modern and classic, with airy floral designs by Violet Rose Floral and slender tapered candles. Guests were greeted to menu cards that doubled as placecards inside of a custom velvet slip case designed by Inquisited, letterpressed with the wedding monogram.

Throughout the event, a harpist played beautiful classical music that tied the atmosphere together. The bride and groom, both engineers, wore classic pieces. The groom wore a custom tuxedo, and the bride’s stunning beaded gown by Jude Jowilson featured light shoulder draping. Her hair flowed in gentle waves down her back, leaving her face bright and open. Her overall look was soft with clean lines.

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The Most Romantic Inspiration Shoot At The Park Chateau Estate With An Overflowing Floral Champagne Wall!

Our inspiration shoot today, hosted by Styled Shoots Across America takes you to The Park Chateau Estate in New Jersey where a mix of romance and florals stole the show! From stunning centerpieces to the floral champagne wall, Rosaspina Floral hit it out of the park with their romantic installations. Idalia Photography captured every special detail from the elegant invitation suite by Invitations by Whitney to the beautiful couple. Take a look below to see all of the absolutely gorgeous photos!

From Idalia Photography…Since March of 2020, weddings have been reimagined. Cramped banquet hall gatherings are now replaced by intimate ceremonies under lush trees, where the sky is big, but the celebrations are small. With outdoor micro-weddings, nature becomes the canvas, and couples have the freedom and creativity to paint their wedding with personal touches.

An inspiration shoot for a micro wedding at a French chateau right in NJ. Hosted by Styled Shoots Across America at the elegant Park Chateau Estate, this shoot had a truly romantic atmosphere. Our bride and groom were surrounded by lavish florals by Rosaspina Floral and beautiful Parisian architecture – a perfect combination for a truly romantic atmosphere.

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Common Thanksgiving Mistakes…and How to Fix Them!

It’s inevitable. Mistakes WILL happen. There has actually never been a single perfect Thanksgiving in the history of the world. Or at least the Larson household. While sometimes we can easily laugh off the imperfections (because we’ve had a lot of wine), usually there is at the very least a whisper of frustration that sneaks into the day. And by whisper, we mean a screaming match. Well not this year. Nope. We’re crossing our T’s and dotting our I’s with a comprehensive Oh Shit Field Guild to a Perfectly Imperfect Thanksgiving Dinner. Consider it your no-sweat manual to rescuing Turkey Day, one soggy crust at a time.

TURKEY PROBLEMS

YOU FORGOT TO THAW THE TURKEY. Friends, turkeys take a LONG time to thaw. Like 3-4 days. Good news though. And it doesn’t include thawing your turkey in the toilet by flushing it repeatedly like my uncle tried to do (true story that I still don’t understand). You can thaw a turkey by giving it a cold water bath, draining the new water every 15 minutes or so and adding fresh water. This still takes a while so you might want to consider cooking it frozen (totally frozen, not partially frozen)…but you’ll need to get it in the oven nice and early!

THE TURKEY IS DONE WAY TOO EARLY. This is a non-problem. The turkey is big. And big things retain heat for longer than you might think. Just cover it with foil and set it in a nice, warm (but not hot) spot until it’s ready to carve. It will be just fine.

YOUR TURKEY IS COOKING UNEVENLY. If your turkey is cooking unevenly, don’t sweat it. I have actually started cooking my bird breast side down for the first half which distributes the juices and allows the breasts to retain that moisture. If that isn’t your schtick, just make sure you truss (or tie up) your bird so that the wings and the legs are tucked in to prevent overcooking. And make lots of gravy so that if worst comes to worst and you have a dried out bird – you can cover it up with gravy goodness. And don’t forget, you can always pop portions of it back in the oven after you’ve carved it if there are parts that are not cooked thru properly.

EVERYTHING IS DONE…EXCEPT THE TURKEY. Make sure you brush up on cooking times per pound (usually 13 minutes per pound at 350 if you’re cooking it the trad way) before you start to freak out. But, if something still went wonky and your bird just won’t cook, double check that you are checking the temp in the right spot (this can GREATLY effect your reading). If your reading is accurate and it’s still too low, up your temp by 50 degrees, cover your bird with foil and check it again every 30 minutes. Feed your guests wine, snacks and fun music to distract them. Grandpa in a turkey costume also does wonders.

YOU DON’T KNOW HOW TO CARVE A TURKEY. Well, for one…read up! Secondly, there are many ways to carve a turkey and if you just pretend like you are hip to all of them, guests will hardly know the difference. But the most important thing to remember is that while tableside carving is certainly exciting, it’s not pretty. Carve it in the kitchen away from judgey eyes. You could also pass the buck entirely and earmark someone else to do it, making it their problem and not yours. Big win.

LOGISTICAL PROBLEMS

YOU DON’T HAVE A ROASTING PAN. Don’t worry, most newbies in the kitchen aren’t fully stocked. And if you don’t have time to borrow one, well, you’ll just have to make one. You can use a large casserole dish OR you can use a cookie sheet (the one with higher sides) fitted with either a handful of cut potatoes + carrots OR foil ropes. This gives the juices somewhere to collect. Just make sure that the sides are high enough so that you don’t have an overflow situation. You can build higher sides with a few layers of foil.

YOU’VE DON’T HAVE ENOUGH OVEN/STOVE SPACE. There are two easy plan-ahead fixes for this: have friends bring side dishes OR plan to serve a few dishes at room temp that you can totally make ahead. If neither of those is an option, you’ll need to stagger your cooking + have vessels to keep things warm. Another alternative would be to employ other equipment to help carry the load…a smoker for the turkey, a crockpot for the mashed potatoes, a microwave or a toaster oven for re-heating.

YOU RUN OUT OF PLATES / FLATWARE / CUPS. Whether those pesky unexpected guests arrived or you just didn’t think about the plate part of planning, get yourself some insurance and buy really sturdy white disposables. Don’t skimp on the sturdy factor. We like Chinet. If you still forgot, it’s time to send your mother home for hers. And if that isn’t going to work – place your shame on the shelf and pull out pie dishes, casserole plates, large bowls, trays and anything else that will contain the food so your guest isn’t eating like a caveman off the table.

YOU DON’T HAVE ENOUGH FOOD. This probably won’t happen. But just in case, there are a few tricks to solving this dreaded dilemma. Slice the turkey thin, guests usually only take a couple of slices whether it’s cut thick or thin and thin goes a lot further than thick. Fill the table with snack-type food: leftover apps, nuts, fruits. This will do 2 things: 1. Extra food for plates and 2. the appearance of abundance. Pour sparkling water into the water glasses. It’s super filling. Place rolls on plates so everyone has one and is peer pressured into eating it. Give a gentle reminder to your guests to not to fill up too much to save room for dessert! And if you are super duper nervous, just serve everyone yourself or pre-mark the “servings” for each dish (making cuts into things like stuffing etc). Whatever you do, remember: flaws are often funny and if you admit that you might not have enough, your guests might all laugh and then go easy on the portion size!

YOU RUN OUT OF WINE. Now this might be the worst problem of all. Families + high stress cooking + hunger = NEED plenty of wine. Plan for at least 1 bottle per person. Then, if you notice wine is get low, consider either moving everyone to spritzers (1/2 seltzer and 1/2 wine), making a big batch of sangria or pulling out another form of cocktail so that you can save the wine for dinner.

TIMING PROBLEMS

THE FOOD IS READY…AND GETTING COLD. Whether it’s pokey guests or you just didn’t time everything up right, cold food that tastes best warm is a no fun side effect. Wrap hot foods entirely (base too) in aluminum foil, then cover with a dish cloth to help that insulation even more. Alternatively, put your oven at 200 or on its lowest setting and keep covered inside OR put the dish in your microwave and run it for 30 seconds to get the heat circulating. Don’t open the door, just leave the dish in the warmed mirco until you are ready. Sidenote, this is where crockpots and casserole dishes with a lid come in very handy.

DINNER IS TAKING TOO LONG (AND EVERYONE IS HANGRY). Thanksgiving Dinner is not usually dinner. It’s usually linner or lupper, that sweet spot between lunch and dinner. Which means that your guests are down a meal and they are going to be hungry. Hungry guests = cranky guests which is the fastest way to spoilsville. Make sure you put out snacks. 1-2 hearty ones and a handful of room temp, no cook options like nuts, dips and cured meats should do the trick. We always do a baked bree with caramelized bacon on top, served with bread. Very very filling and very pretty to boot!

COOKING PROBLEMS

OOPS. YOU FORGOT A MAJOR INGREDIENT FROM THE GROCERY. Didn’t your mother teach you that when you run out of flour, just pop over to your neighbor’s house? Well, what if your neighbor is out of town? And the store is closed? And dinner is almost ready? Brush up on substitutions (I use mayo in place of eggs all the time with great success) and/or figure out if it’s a make or break scenario. If not, choose to go in the way of Frozen and Let it Go.

THE STUFFING ISN’T REACHING THE RIGHT TEMP. First of all, I’m a stuffing outside of the bird kind of girl. It’s a constant battle in our house actually, so now we end up stuffing the bird and the casserole dish and having two options. #familyproblems. But if you’re an in-bird stuffing kind of gal, and it’s not reaching the appropriate temperature for safe eating, just remove it from the bird, cover it with foil so that it doesn’t crisp up (something us out of the bird people love) and bake it for about 20 minutes. Recheck the temp and either remove from the oven or let it go a little longer.

ALL THE GRAVY DRAMA. Why is gravy so very finicky?? Finding those brown bits amidst the oils, making sure that it’s thick without being goupy, making sure flavor is on point…all tricky. Here are some quick rescue remedies.

Lumps: pour it through a fine mesh strainer then add thickener or reduce on the stove until you reach desired consistency.
Too Thin: Either reduce over medium heat on the stove OR blend 1/4 cup of gravy with 2 Tbs of flour, stirring until the flour has completely mixed in then add back to your gravy a little bit at a time. Alternatively, you can mix flour with softened butter to create the same effect.
Its Bland: Add salt. Duh. You can also add a bit of browned butter or worcestershire sauce to deepen the flavor.

SOMETHING IS TOO SALTY. This is a tough one because you will never be able to remove the salt. So you only have three real options:

Dilute it by adding more of all of the other ingredients including the main event (potatoes, bread, etc).
Add acid. Lemon juice or vinegar (try apple cider) will help mask the flavor. But it won’t fix the problem.
Turn it into something else. Green beans can get added to your stuffing or turned into a casserole. Same with roasted veggies. This takes some creative thinking but it’s definitely on the menu of possibility.

YOUR PIES ARE FLOPPING. Pie is probably what people look forward to the most at Thanksgiving, so if yours fall short, the whole day will most likely be ruined. Juuuust kidding. Here are a few quickie pie fixes…

Soggy crust: First read tips on preventing. If that isn’t an option, serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream in a bowl. It will taste more like a cobbler and it will be DELISH.
Cracked: Again with the tips on preventing. Or, just cover the top with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon, apple pie spice or grated chocolate and no one will know the difference.
Burnt Crust + Uncooked Filling: First and foremost, don’t overwork your dough. Next, cut a piece of foil into a square large enough to cover your pie. Then cut a round circle out of the top. Leave it on for the first half of your cook time, then remove it at the end. Foolproof.

GUEST PROBLEMS

AN UNEXPECTED GUEST SHOWS UP. A plus one is usually no biggie. A few plus ones are what can derail a Turkey Day in no time flat. Always plan a meal that includes leftovers – that way, you’re sure to have enough. Forgot to do that? Man the portions. Cut the turkey thinner, make sure to include some bread in the offerings, scoop the mashed potatoes and doll out the gravy yourself – that way, you graze right over Uncle Dave’s heavy hand that leaves everyone else without.

THERE ARE TOO MANY COOKS IN THE KITCHEN. Give everyone a job from the moment that arrive – and plan plenty of jobs outside of the kitchen. So when Grandma Ruth insists on stirring the gravy, you can redirect her with the equally important job of lighting the candles or reading a book to the little ones.

YOU FORGOT TO INVITE SOMEONE. An elderly neighbor who is home alone, a family member that had a change in plans. Reach out, always reach out. Apologize for the oversight and invite them over. Before they get there, whip up a place card and make room for them at the table so that they don’t feel awkward watching you try to squeeze in another chair.

YOUR GUESTS WANTS LEFTOVERS. And you secretly want them all to yourself! First, make sure to buy containers to send home with people. Here’s a cute DIY one. Next, divvy up the portions on each of the platters so that you have equal amounts or small enough portions to fit in said containers. Give everyone the same thing and don’t divvy up in front of anyone. Then sing the ditty, “you get what you get and you don’t get upset” as you hand each package over.

* * * *

DON’T FORGET THESE THANKSGIVING MUSTS!

THE ART OF THANKSGIVING CONVERSATION

LITTLE TURKEY DAY DETAILS THAT MAKE A HUGE IMPRESSION

Where Opulence and Beauty Collide: A Wedding Editorial Inspired by the Pages of Vogue

To say this unique editorial took our breath away would be the understatement of the century. From the bride’s knockout Dana Harel gown complete with a cascading train and floral appliqué, to the untamed floral magic created by Jana Brown Design Co. in an ultra feminine color palette. To the bride who spends most of her spare time flipping through the pages of Vogue, this inspiration is perfect for you. Head on over to the full gallery of details, all captured by Lost Coast Photography!

From Janna Brown Design…“The Swan,” where opulence and wild beauty collide, in this ultra romantic editorial hosted by Janna Brown Design.

Inspired by the juxtaposition of fierceness and femininity found spilling out of the pages of Vogue, our editorial balanced delicate, wild blooms and ethereal fabrics with immense architecture, powerful posing, and the intensity between our couple and the lens.

Our bride donned an impressive gown by Dana Harel Design, with a cascading train and a sheer bustier, adorned with a plethora of delicate hand-sewn flower petals. She carried a bouquet composed of wild jasmine, elaeagnus, and garden roses, finished with trailing silk ribbon.

Our table details mimicked the bride and her bouquet: soft cream fabrics paired with untamed florals. Tara Spencer created vellum menus which sat atop each place setting, while the flowers nestled into a bed of cream fabrics…

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When High School Sweethearts Wed in a Romantic Summer Ceremony at Arrowhead Hill

Muted sunset hues, a gown fit for a princess, and a dreamy gray barn setting – today’s wedding planned by Sweet Tea and Linen is a Pinterest board brought to life. The Farmer and I created heavenly arrangements of brightly colored blooms that made for the perfect color pop against the white interior walls of the venue. To see every last detail of their day captured by Courtney Leigh Photography, don’t forget to head on over to the full gallery of inspiration.

From Courtney Leigh Photo… Anna and Matt rescheduled their wedding from late spring to mid-summer due to Covid and they were finally able to have the wedding of their dreams. They booked a beautiful new venue in Montgomery, TX with a refined, modern and elegant barn design and based their colors and florals on a Texas sunset. Anna had the most meaningful details, from using her parents wedding cake topper to a ring bearer pillow made out of lace from her mom’s wedding dress, to the acrylic etched vows… This wedding was nothing short of a dream.

From the Bride… Matt and I are high school sweethearts turned college sweethearts. I was on our high school’s drill team and Matt was a Trumpet player in the band. In the stands every Friday night, the drill team and band were always right next to each other. It was known among my friends that I definitely had a crush on Matt, and I found out later that Matt also felt the same about me. We ended up hanging out with each other all night at our Senior Homecoming instead of with our dates and I even drove him home in the morning. He finally asked for my number (on Facebook) a few weeks later and then shortly after we began dating and have been together ever since!

What did you envision your wedding being prior to planning?

The biggest thing I wanted and envisioned was an outdoor fall wedding. My now husband was completely opposed to a fall wedding simply because it would interfere with football season (Geaux Tigers!) while my parents told me I could get married outside, but my dad would drop me off at the alter then proceed to head indoors to sit in the AC with my mom watching from afar (if you know Texas and outdoor weddings, then you’ll understand the humor behind this!) Long story short, Matt said I do while not simultaneously asking for score updates and both of my parents were physically in attendance. : )

What was your color palette and your style vision?

My indecisiveness hit hard with determining the color palette, and after months of contemplation, a decision finally came to me. I ended up searching color palettes on pinterest and stumbled across one based off of a sunset and was instantly hooked. Muted sunset colors for my florals with my main color for bridesmaids dresses being a pretty blush pink.

What unique elements or details did you include?

I ended up finding someone who was able to etch our vows on to acrylic sheets. They turned out beautifully in photo and video for our wedding but also doubled as a beautiful keepsake. The cake topper that I placed beside my cake was actually my parents cake topper from their wedding. They have always had it displayed in our childhood home, along with a few other wedding keepsakes, and they decided to pass it on to us. My ring bearer pillow was made by my grandma from my mother’s wedding dress. One of our best decisions was asking our friend to officiate our wedding. He was one of Matt’s fraternity brothers and has been such a close friend of both of ours for years. It felt so personal having someone that is a part of both of our lives that we love dearly to marry us. He absolutely nailed it and Matt and I both agree it was one of our favorite small touches to our wedding day.

What was your favorite moment? Your favorite crafted detail?

I feel like this is the hardest questions to have to come up with an answer for because it was my favorite day filled with so many amazing moments. From my matron of honor gifting me with a book of letters written by all my loved ones, to my first look with my dad where he asked me to carry my late grandad’s pocket knife, to my first look with Matt, to being prayed over by my sweet bridesmaids, to MARRYING my best friend then getting to celebrate the night away with our loved ones, it was our dream day. It’s not a single moment but looking back and being able to be married and celebrate with our loved ones will forever be one of my favorite memories. During this time of so much uncertainty, so many changed plans, and so many loved ones who were not able to attend, love still wins because I was able to say I married the love of my life.

From the Groom… Hands down, my favorite moment of the day would be hearing Anna’s vows for the first time. She is the one person on Earth that truly understands who I am at my core, and she loves me unconditionally. We are both so passionate for each other, and hearing that our loud on such a special day is something I will never forget.

Tell us about your flowers, your gown, your favors, your cake, etc.

Flowers = flawless. Carrington, owner and creative behind the Farmer and I, absolutely brought my dream to life. The only detail that stuck from beginning to end during my wedding planning process was that I wanted colorful flowers and Carrington 100% delivered. I stumbled across her on Instagram one day and instantly fell in love with her style and knew that I could trust her to bring my vision to life! Gown: I felt like a princess in my gown! I never thought I would be one to want or wear a ball gown, but I would not have wanted any other dress! I loved every detail from the sparkle to the lace! Cake: I surprised Matt with his groom’s cake, which ended up being a Whataburger cake with a little bit of LSU thrown in there as well! He loved it and it was just another way to say “hey we’re from Texas” and “Geaux Tigers!”

What is one piece of advice that you could give bride’s to be?

Remember that at the end of the day you will still be able to say you married the love of your life! My Matron of Honor and I, who were both going through having to plan a wedding in the midst of a pandemic, constantly reminded each other of this. Through all of the stress, upsetting news, and constant changes, it felt like having a wedding during this time wouldn’t be worth it with so many of our loved ones missing. I will say this to any and everyone, it was SO worth it. It was still our day, we were still surrounded by so many loved ones, and we because husband and wife! This is what getting married is about and all the rest is just the icing on the cake!

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The Ultimate Christmas 101 Decorating Guide

If you’re starting from ground zero, decorating for the holidays is an almost daunting task. Do you need garland? How many wreaths are too many? How many is just enough? What all actually goes on a Christmas tree? Do you need nutcrackers? While the answer is completely subjective and up to your tastes, like anything home decor related there are best practices to help guide you in your preference discoveries.

So without further ado, your ultimate Christmas 101 Decorating Guide!

At the core, there are 4 locations that scream for a little holiday attention more than any other place in the home. These can be improvised, ultra-creative and sometimes downright unconventional, but starting by looking at these core locations sets the tone for the rest of your home

THE CHRISTMAS TREE

The star of all holiday decor, the Christmas Tree is where most memories are made and therefore deserves to be the baseline of your attention and planning. You can go real or faux, eclectic or completely coordinated — but whatever you decide, here are the elements to consider

The Tree Itself: take your space and budget into account first, then look at aesthetic. You can get a tree that looks like it’s been dusted with snow (“flocked” being the primary term there!) You can get gorgeous accorns attached, you can get even get skinny trees!

Lights: Typically the biggest decision here is to go for multi-colored or white lights, but also take into account if you want to go on a limb and go for the ultra retro-glam large-bulb strands. Those bad boys can take your tree to the next level.

Beaded Garland: Another layer of tree decor to layer through the branches is a good strand of beaded garland. These weave in and out of trendiness, but they are a true classic. Whether you go for metallic, wooden or felt stands, they do wonders for elevating you tree game.

Bows and Ribbon: Arguably our favorite part of all tree decor, this combination is elegant to the MAX. Whether you opt for ribbon that cascades down from the top of your tree or loops in and out of branches along with your beads, you cant go wrong with adding this little elegant detail.

Ball Ornaments: These ornaments are the baseline of all your other ornament decor. Opt for a coordinating color scheme that works well with your other tree elements and you’r tree will feel perfectly filled out in no time. Sentimental Ornaments: These are typically collected over time and include a variety of knick-knacks, hand-made elements or collectables you simply just *liked.* Don’t over think this part! If you like it, it’s the right decision to get it and display it proudly.

Tree Skirt or Collar: Often overlooked but sadly noticed when it’s gone, the tree skirt is the baseline that grounds the entire tree. Without it, your tree looks naked and that’s just sad. We love a good knited tree skirt with pom-pom detailing or even going out on a limb to opt for a tree collar!

The Topper: Much like a tree skirt, the topper is a high-impact element of the whole ensemble. Choose your topper with care! You have many, many options. Some go for an angel, some go for a traditional start, others make a neatly tied bow the center of attention and we’ve even seen a bird or two perched at the top regally tying everything together.

THE MANTLE

The mantel can be both literal and created, but the main purpose of the mantel is to house the stockings. So don’t fret if you don’t have a mantel — create one! You can use a blank wall, a piano, an entry table, a console piece or even your tv table.

Garland: if you’re working with a mantel, this fills it out beautifully and denotes it as a holiday focal point. If you’re not working with a traditional mantel, a bit of garland signals that you’re using that piece of furniture as your mantel!

Lights and Beads: We can’t recommend little bits and bobbles enough! These simple elements dress up your garland in a really functional and fun way! Don’t overlook this detail. Stockings: The hallmark of a festive mantel — your stockings play a super important dual role of looking good and holding your goodies :)

Stocking Holders: Frequently forgotten and always missed when they’re not there, the stocking holders need to be sturdy but bonus points for making them look good too.

Focal Point: if you’re working with a traditional mantel or a piece of furniture, you’ll need an overhead focal point. Whether that’s a wreath, a mirror or even your tv, the extra effort to make it festive goes a long way.

Bits and Bobbles: There’s really no elegant way to word the idea of “things you place on the mantel that are cute but don’t really have a category.” This can be candle-sticks, nutcrackers, animal figurines or tiny Santa-Clauses. Whatever you choose to display here gets some significant eye-time, so make sure it pops!

THE TABLE

The holidays follow all of the same rules of thumb when setting and decorating, but the thing that makes the holiday table extra special are the things that layer in on top of the norm a juj it up.

Plates and Chargers: You can go ALL out here and festiveness or you can layer in basic pieces with festive pieces for a nice balanced look. We like to go for a festive plate and multi-purpose crisp charger.

Name Cards: Whether you actually put names out on your table or not, a little token nod to the season is a cute way to add some festive holiday themed decor without going majorly overboard.

Tiny Wreaths: Our favorite decorative piece in our whole arsenal, the tiny wreath can do SO MUCH for you table. From gracefully lying on top of a plate to being beautifully tied to the back of a chair, this multi-use token is a great way to make your table cheery.

Linens: Another great place to bring in a festive baseline is with your linens! Napkins, table runners and tablecloths all create a graceful, festive scene.

Napkin Rings: Don’t know how to fold a pretty napkin? No problem! Napkin rings are your solution. They’re a fool-proof way to make your linens look good, and when you get them specific for the season they really do wonders for making your table look like that of a pro.

Center Piece: This can be a strand of garland, a cluster of candlesticks, a bowl of ornaments or even a vase of piney stems. The sky is the limit when it comes to your holiday tablescape!

THE FRONT DOOR

The entry of any living space automatically sets the tone for what you’re about to find inside. The front door does the same for your Christmas decor! Any type of front door in any sort of living space could do for a little festivity.

The Wreath: Arguably your most important wreath of all the wreaths, this one is your “welcome!” “hello!” “come in!” and because of that it deserves some special attention. Whether your opt for a full, leafy real-life pine or a modern hooped loop, your door will look better and more festive no matter what.

The Door Mat: This is one of our favorite elements of the front door because it’s an opportunity to let your personality shine. Are you more of a classical kind of person who likes the traditional wordings in a great font? Are you a witty online shopper who likes to purchase a doormat with package hiding instructions? Or are you a whimsical festive fanatic who likes to see their favorite Christmas lyric as they enter their home? Whatever the case, own it! You do you here and make the most of it.

Garland: Can you tell we love garland? There are few places we can think of where garland *wouldn’t* work, but one of the most impactful places you can use a big hulking bunch of garland is framing your front door. It looks fab no matter how you install it — perfectly symmetrical or intentional off balance — so have fun and make it look good to you.

Potted Greenery: We’ve seen everything from poinsettia, tiny evergreen trees to topiaries tied with red bows. If you’re the kind that likes to swap out your potted plans seasonally, this is your time to shine and think outside of the festive box!

Figurines: You don’t have to go entirely Clark Griswald here to be festive. You can opt for small lanterns, tastefully-lit deer or even a sweet sleigh filled with poinsettia. A small token of festivity makes your entry that much more cheery.

THE DETAILS

While these aren’t core locations, it is often the smaller details that complete the transformation.

Candles: The scent of your home can be a true dictator of holiday festiveness. Whether you’re a warm vanilla type, a slim pine type or a crips cranberry kind of candle person, nothing makes a bigger impact that thinking through the sense of smell.

Pillows and Throws: A great way to add maximum impact with minimum effort is to swap out your day-to-day pillows and throws with festive alternatives! Think cozy knits, cheery colors and whimsical sayings.

Music: Another sense to add to consideration is what plays in the background. We can’t recommend a mellow, instrumental big-band jazz playlist enough for your “scene-setting” mood. Just throw it on and you’ll instantly feel like you should be in smack dab in the middle of the White Christmas movie.

So there you have it! A simple yet inclusive list to get you started on your holiday decor. And don’t forget, at the end of the day it’s a collection of years of effort. so don’t stress the little things :) You’ve got this!

Photo: Carla Taylor

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A Beginner’s Guide to Designing Your Wedding Tablescapes (It’s Easier Than You Think!)

Once you’ve got those rings around your fingers and you’re getting a feel for your new titles (yup, we know you’ve been fantasizing about that iconic, much-anticipated introduction by your fabulous emcee: buh-bye fiancé/fiancée, hello hubs or wifey!), it’s time to settle in for the night–and pulling up a chair at a wow-worthy table is exactly what we’re talking about. Whether you’re planning on doing a traditional plated dinner, with predetermined table arrangements or an en vogue, extended cocktail hour approach with freestyle seating, you’ll want to be sure your tablescapes are on-point and inviting. And we’re not just imagining beautiful blooms (although petal power is a major part of it!).

PHOTOGRAPHY | Linda Nari Photography

Setting a Table–A Beginner’s Guide to Wedding Tablescaping Genious

1. Start with a neutral or muted canvas.

Don’t get us wrong, we love a bold, punchy palette, but when you’re starting to think about tablescaping for your reception, you’ll want to start with a simple backdrop–like white, ivory, blush, grey, powder blue, etc. linens–and then layer on texture and intrigue. Smart to consider, too, if your venue doesn’t stock a kaleidoscopic range of colored tablecloths.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Linda Nari Photography

2. Freshen up with flowers.

To quote Monet, “We must have flowers, always, and always.” Your florist will help you figure out what kinds of floral centerpieces work best for your tables (round, rectangular, etc.), but you’ll of course want to bring in statement colors from your aisle aesthetic and also incorporate some grounding tones to go along with the neutrals in the rest of your tablescape. Balance. Balance. Balance.

PHOTOGRAPHY | The Byes Photo

3. Clean your plates.

With color, that is. On a blush canvas like this, a nice bright white combination of plateware (a monochromatic matching of dinner plate AND charger) works beautifully. It’s clean and modern and allows anything placed on top to pop. A single stem placed underneath a wooden or acrylic place card is stunning in its simplicity and consider a little something special at your seats!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Studio Opia

4. Mix in some metallics.

A gold (or any kind of trendy metallic–copper, rose gold, platinum, silver) moment will never be missed, but doesn’t need to be overdone, either. We like to see gilded touches play out in the flatware, rimming on wine or cocktail glasses and coupes, candlesticks, calligraphy-laced place cards, and table number stands. Or, you can go with gold foil for a streamlined hint of elegance.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Faith Roper Photography

5. And light it up.

Because we’re pretty sure there’s nothing more romantic than candlelight, during the day and definitely at night. You can do it with tall, statuesque tapers – blush and gold always play nice together–and then temper things with entrancing tealights.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Jaye Avery Photography

Now back to that ‘sitting at the head table’ situation. We certainly love –a couple cozying up to their tribe for toasts and table talk–but a sweetheart table, reserved with custom signage also does it for us! The photos taken right before the newlyweds see their reception space and sit down to their first meal as a married couple. We’re not crying…you are!!! 😭 So, turn up your tablescaping skills and who knows, maybe it’s your wedding we’re featuring on Style Me Pretty next!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Jenny Quicksall

Danielle Halibey is a writer, editor, and publicist living in New Jersey. She has been immersed in the world of weddings since planning her own whimsical, romantic affair in 2014. And isn’t that what they always say, “those who can’t do, teach?” Well, once her nuptials were over, she still had stuff in the ‘I Do’ industry to do. She writes regularly for top wedding blogs including Style Me Pretty and Wedding Chicks, and has garnered millions of press impressions for brands in the wedding space: fashion, beauty, wedding talent+tastemakers and more.

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This Micro Wedding Brings Provence Lavender Inspiration to the Pacific Northwest

Dreaming of a romantic destination wedding in the French countryside – but COVID travel restrictions bursting your bubble? Don’t fret, we may have just found the stateside venue of your Provençal dreams. Today’s stunning styled shoot at Woodinville Lavender planned by Rose Andrew Events is the epitome of natural beauty. The bride absolutely took our breath away in her long sleeve Reem Acra gown complete with a French lace turtleneck and feminine skirt. Botanique Flowers created elegant arrangements that perfectly complimented the lush, lavender field setting. To see all the destination inspiration this shoot has to offer, head on over to the full gallery – all taken by Whiskers and Willow Photography!

From Whiskers and Willow Photography… There is nothing like the majestic view of miles and miles of lavender fields in Provence. While COVID-19 has caused postponements and cancellations of weddings abroad, our creative team brought the romance and European flair of Southeastern France to the beautiful Pacific Northwest! From Emily Muddiman of Rose Andrew Events: “My muse for this design was a bride who was forced to postpone her European nuptials but wanted to celebrate her marriage in a way that felt regal yet approachable, romantic, intimate and true to the region where she originally planned to wed. We loved the setting of Seattle’s venue, Woodinville Lavender. It features acres of blooming lavender and the most charming white greenhouse. With our location and inspiration in mind, we chose a neutral color palette with pops of color!

Our ceremony was set in the lavender fields and guests sat on French inspired soft seating. Large lush arrangements of homegrown blooms were created by Kelly of Botanique and adorned the alter and tables. The tables featured rich textured linens paired with plush velvet napkins, handmade ceramic plates, pearl flatware and cut crystal glassware. We incorporated tufted linen benches to elevate the look and feel of the setting. I worked with our talented stationer, Crystal of the Fancy Cat Studio to dream up an invitation suite and corresponding day of paper goods that felt timeless and reminiscent of European regalia.

Her custom crest on the invitation, the corgi and unique guest name lasered on velvet napkins, and the chartreuse menu pockets gave the day an extra dose of unique French opulence. The cake, perfectly created by Missy of Missy Lee Cakes, featured tall opulent tiers and fondant appliqués that mimicked the curves and aesthetic of the custom crest created for our couple. For the wedding look, our bride wore a stunning Reem Acra gown— made complete with a French lace turtleneck, elegant sleeves and an over the top skirt. Paired with her white crystal studded Jimmy Choo’s and diamond earrings, her bridal ensemble was feminine yet grand. She carried a colorful bouquet of hydrangea, garden roses, lavender and wildflowers. Our talented Hair and Make-up artist styled her natural curls in a french updo and adorned her bun in a gorgeous hair wreath by Riot of Flowers. Standing beside her, our groom wore a classic black tux and the sweetest boutonniere to compliment her elegant bridal look. Jackie, of Whiskers and Willow, beautifully captured this wedding inspiration!

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Some of Our Favorite Celebrity Engagement Rings and How You Can Achieve The Look With Taylor & Hart Custom Rings!

When it comes to engagement rings, well, you could spend all day happily staring at photos of different designs and styles and still not know which is the best choice for you or your partner! Maybe that’s because an engagement ring is about not only a good design, but a sentimental meaning. To help bring that beauty and personalization together, Taylor & Hart creates heartfelt custom wedding and engagement rings that capture your story. With ethically-sourced diamonds and gemstones, you not only get the comfort of knowing you’ve made a sustainable purchase, but you can have a ring that you helped design alongside your own personal design consultant! They also have their own collection, which I think you’re going to want to check out below….where they outline how a handful of their pieces have taken inspiration from our A-list friends!

These days, couples are no longer constrained by the limited options displayed on the local jewelers’ shelves. With boundless imaginations, today’s couples want to find a unique ring design to match. Anything less than a custom engagement ring or wedding band feels impersonal. But thanks to innovative technologies such as 3D CAD designs and printing, it’s now possible for anyone to create a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry that reflects their style and personality, while celebrating their self-expression & creative freedom.

Creative freedom also means getting inspired by your favorite celebrity & being able to have a ring similar to theirs. Taylor & Hart breaks down some of the most iconic celebrity engagement rings to spark your own inspiration when it comes to what design is right for you!

Hailey Baldwin Bieber

The Demure design is the most petite solitaire in the Taylor & Hart collection. Set in 18ct yellow gold, the band is 1.6mm wide with a rounded profile and sculptural eagle claws proudly holding its centre diamond in place.

Meghan Markle

This ring made waves around the world when Meghan Markle and Prince Harry got engaged in 2018. The ring appears to be a trilogy style featuring an elongated cushion cut centre diamond flanked with round diamonds. Keeping on trend, Harry opted for a mixed metal ring, with white gold claws accentuating the bright nature of the diamonds. Harry revealed that the band is 18ct yellow gold, to honor Meghan’s favorite metal. Markle’s design closely resembles the Destiny engagement ring design. Mixing tradition with sentiment, a trilogy engagement ring is representative of the past, present and future. However Taylor & Hart always encourages you to add your personal touch, customize the design & make it yours.

Blake Lively

Blake Lively’s 12 karat oval diamond rose gold engagement ring is undeniably one of the most impressive celebrity engagement rings of the past decade. With its oval diamond set in a romantic rose gold three row pavé setting, this ring is both delicate and show-stopping and Lively is certainly not afraid to show it off.

Taylor & Hart took inspiration from this iconic design, and added the Halycon to their engagement ring collection. With 122 diamonds in the band, the triple row of pavé diamonds adds an architectural element to the design, packing a powerful punch.

Beyonce

Jay-Z quite literally “put a ring on it”, and what a ring it is. Beyonce’s engagement ring features a show-stopping 18 karat emerald cut diamond with a split-shank diamond pavé band. Set with classic pavé diamonds, a split shank gives rings a more ornate finish with a greater presence on the hand. Many celebrities opt for a glamorous emerald cut diamond engagement ring, harkening back to the elegance and excitement of old Hollywood.

The Symphony from the engagement ring collection is a perfect alternative to Beyonce’s design, with two diamond encrusted bands that split and attach to the centre diamond, which is held within sculptural eagle claws. This design is set with a princess diamond, but can easily be customized to fit other diamond shapes. Viewed from above, the diamond centre seems to seamlessly float above the finger.

Jennifer Lopez

The ring embodies J.Lo’s personality–bold, confident and powerful. Its presence is emphasized by the classic simplicity of the design itself. Known for their subtle elegance, emerald-cuts are the preferred shape among celebrities for large engagement rings. Wearers are drawn to the sleek architectural beauty of the shape, known for its seamless fusion of light and dark planes called the “hall of mirrors”.

If Lopez’s mighty 20 karat emerald diamond is slightly out of budget, the engagement ring design bears resemblance to the Hope from Taylor & Hart’s collection of classic solitaire rings.

Mary Kate Olsen

Olsen’s engagement ring certainly reflects her love of vintage design and is both elegant and timeless, with attention drawn to its four karat European cut diamond as the centerpiece and main focal point. A European cut diamond is a predecessor of the round brilliant, created in the late 19th century, cut using antique techniques. The centre diamond is surrounded by 16 custom cut vivid blue calibre-cut sapphires.

The ring is larger than life, and many may prefer a ring which is a little more subtle and suitable for everyday wear. The design can be reworked in a variety of ways to suit those with less extravagant taste, while retaining the opulence and elegant symmetry of the original design.

Kate Middleton

Whether you’ve considered a sapphire engagement ring previously or not, most would admit that Kate Middleton’s design sets the standard for iconic engagement rings. It reflects Middleton’s definitive beauty and classic tailored looks—emulating a classic, bold, yet refined style. The ring was once worn by Prince William’s mother, Princess Diana, and after his engagement to Middleton, its fame grew exponentially. The iconic sapphire engagement ring has garnered fans across the globe with its cluster halo of 14 diamonds surrounding a 12 karat deep blue oval-cut Ceylon sapphire set in a white metal—most likely white gold.

This classic style can be replicated in a number of ways to suit any given price point & design preferences. Middleton’s engagement ring design bears resemblance to the Allure from the collection of halo rings.

Katy Perry

Perry’s engagement ring is an oval purplish-red ruby surrounded by round diamonds, framed with a delicate milgrain halo. Milgrain is a raised metal beading effect, often seen in antique jewelry, usually featured along the edges of a design, serving as a textured frame to highlight the stone at its centre.

Never one to shy away from experimental fashion, the deep ruby tones and shimmering diamonds in the halo are reflective of Perry’s bold sense of style. While the vintage style pays homage to tradition, the combination of the rich ruby and the dramatic halo diamonds brings this design a sense of individuality.

Lily Collins

The Emily in Paris star Lily Collins recently became engaged on a romantic, sunny trip to New Mexico. The unusual engagement ring features a bezel set rose-cut diamond ring, set in 18 karat gold with a chunky brushed band. The understated, bohemian style of this engagement ring perfectly suits Lily’s laid back style. Rose cut diamonds date back to the 16th century, and are typically found in vintage jewelry styles and hand carved by jewelers, making the gemstone quite rare and sentimental.

Collin’s design closely resembles the Purity engagement ring design. If you liked the bezel set feature of Lily’s engagement ring, but want to go in for a slightly more refined band, the purity ring features a cushion diamond set in a delicate bezel of yellow gold.

“Even though proposals center around that one iconic question, they’re also an opportunity to express your love through more than just words. We’re often at our most creative when we find ways to let someone know how much they mean to us. Which is why we think every element of your engagement ring should have a meaning personal to you and your partner. After all, this might be your best chance to make the ultimate expression of love.”

In 2020, Taylor & Hart endeavored to make this ring buying process as magical as the engagement itself, which led them to open their new showroom in NYC’s iconic Freedom Tower. And until the end of this year, with every ring order over $1,500, Taylor & Hart will be gifting you this diamond pendant to celebrate your love in all its forms. Just a little something, from them, to capture your story and hold it close to your heart.

Rings: Taylor & Hart

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1. Wedding Website Updates

2. An Un-save the Date Card

3. Email Blasts

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TURKEY PROBLEMS

LOGISTICAL PROBLEMS

TIMING PROBLEMS

COOKING PROBLEMS

GUEST PROBLEMS

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What did you envision your wedding being prior to planning?

What was your color palette and your style vision?

What unique elements or details did you include?

What was your favorite moment? Your favorite crafted detail?

Tell us about your flowers, your gown, your favors, your cake, etc.

What is one piece of advice that you could give bride’s to be?

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THE CHRISTMAS TREE

THE MANTLE

THE TABLE

THE FRONT DOOR

THE DETAILS

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Setting a Table–A Beginner’s Guide to Wedding Tablescaping Genious

1. Start with a neutral or muted canvas.

2. Freshen up with flowers.

3. Clean your plates.

4. Mix in some metallics.

5. And light it up.

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