If Napa and Tahoe had a wedding baby, this, my dears would be it. It’s one part rustic one part romantic and all sorts of fabulousness. The bride’s dress and veil are simply beyond beautiful and I’m loving how all her gold accents are repeated in the sophisticated tablescapes complete with gold rimmed wine glasses and plates. Oh, and that tent! If that’s not the prettiest, most breeziest and beautiful tent ever, then I don’t know what is. I just want to sit under it all day and watch it blow in the breeze as I sip champagne from a fabulous gold rimmed glass. And I bet that’s just what these lucky guests did. Designed and planned perfectly by Merrily Wed and captured to perfection by Kate Webber Photography, this wedding is just to die for. Click here for more and for even more gorgeous California weddings, check out our SMP California blog here!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From Merrily Wed…Mutual friends tried to set Alison and Jeremy up but Alison wouldn’t have anything to do with it for two years. Then they actually started talking and a bi-coastal relationship began. Fast forward to living as a couple in San Francisco when Jeremy proposed to Alison on a San Francisco rooftop surrounded by 10,000 lights – literally, and the lighted Golden Gate Bridge as a backdrop. They didn’t have a dream of how to finish their fairytale love story… Little did they know it would end up on a magnificent sprawling lawn on the shores of Lake Tahoe with the help of Merrily Wed.

The ceremony was held at Corpus Christi Catholic Church (seen in the Godfather II) and the reception site was kept a well hidden secret from their 165 guests. Upon arriving at the palatial, luminous lakefront estate, guests were treated to a champagne cocktail and twinkling music by a string quartet. Wine barrels doubled as cocktail tables and this look was carried over to the majestic main bar overflowing with soft, white flowers.

Alison wanted a vintage, romantic look but with a twist of sophistication. The color palette was neutral with ivories, creams and natural tones but with a fresh punch of color from the flowers. To add a bit of glamour to her wedding day, we wove touches of gold throughout: from Alison’s couture French Chantilly lace dress with gold metallic accents, to her intricately detailed place setting to the gold-rimmed glassware to the gold lace on the hanging mason jar lanterns. Her place card table was an old farm table with layers of antique lace wrapped around it. The place cards were woven into the lace. Two giant floral arrangements on wine barrels framed the entrance into her dreamy summer night tent – a clear top canopy with sheer ivory swagging which allowed the just right amount of light, towering trees and twinkling stars to peek through. The antique rustic chandeliers created a dramatic focal point at each end of the tent and a natural spot to gather the draped swagging.

Napa French-slotted wooden chairs complimented the natural style of the eggshell Tuscany linen on the dining tables. Alison used colorful gold-rimmed china reminiscent of her Grandma’s on top of a rustic embossed charger. The details were in the rich patterns of each. Gold-rimmed glassware picked up the gold in the ornate floral band of the Diana china. Tables were named after locations that had sentimental meaning to Alison & Jeremy as well as the guests matched at each. These were attached to twigs and incorporated in the loosely arranged centerpieces. The wedding cake cannot go unmentioned – it was a very special family recipe by Aunt Allie. Served in her memory, Aunt Allie is Alison’s namesake and July 31st is not only their wedding date but Aunt Allie’s birthday. Pride & Joy, a 10 piece band, kicked off the dancing under the summer night’s dream of a reception tent. Their energy and costume changes kept the guests dancing.

Event Design + Planning: Merrily Wed / Wedding Photography: Kate Webber Photography / Caterer: As You Wish / Flowers: Stems by Diana / String Music: The String Beings / Band: Pride & Joy / Ceremony Venue: Corpus Christi Catholic Church / Reception Venue: Private West Shore Lakefront Estate / Invitation Designer: Hello!Lucky / Wedding Dress: Atelier des Modistes / Wedding Videography: Stanislav Basovich / Cake Designer: Sugar Pine Cakery / Equipment Rentals: Celebrations Party Rentals + Classic Party Rentals / Linen Rental: La Tavola Linen / Make-up Artist: Yvette Beebe / Hair Stylist: Jarr Von Samuel

Oh how we love to get our hands on beautiful ballroom affairs! We know there are so many of you out there that just adore these elegant events, and it’s easy to see why after seeing a wedding like this one captured by Matt Yung Photography. With elegance oozing out of each stately column of this gorgeous venue – it’s a fairytale wedding dreams are made of. See even more of the dream-worthy details in the full gallery of images!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From Matt Yung Photography…Matt and Meredith’s gorgeous ballroom wedding – very classic and traditional. Originally built in 1924, the Biltmore Ballrooms are now on the National Register of Historic Places. Their intricately designed ceilings and beautiful hardwood floors were perfectly complemented with pink roses, hydrangeas, and white orchids. The bride and bridesmaids wore pearls; the bride accented her jewelry and bouquet with elegant rhinestone touches. Unique, custom designed name cards and stationery printed with pink roses, hydrangeas, and white orchids mixed in with the floral arrangements at the reception and altogether created one tasteful, elegant event.

Wedding Coordination: Ashley Baber Weddings / Catering: Affairs to Remember / Florist: On Occasions of Atlanta / DJ: Fernando at Lethal Rhythms / Ceremony Musicians: After Five String Quartet / Wedding Gown: Bride Beautiful / Venue: The Biltmore Ballrooms / Bride’s Make-up Artist: Jennifer Adams with Formal Faces / Bridesmaids Make-up Artist: Brushworx / Stationery: Kristy Rice of Momental Designs / Wedding Photography: Matt Yung Photography

My head is all a flutter at the moment because I just don’t know where to begin with seriously stylish New Year’s Eve affair captured by StudioThisIs and designed by Bliss Weddings and Events. There is just so much goodness! But I just have to say something about that gown – oh em gee. That Vera Wang gown is what my dreams are made of. And that reception design? No words. It’s just elegant perfection. It’s all just fairytale, and you can get lost in all the pretty in the full gallery of images!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From StudioThisIs…Emma & Thomas met in college, there the groom was overseas on a golf scholarship. With his most charming English accent, Tom asked Emma for a proper date over tea… Emma swooned. The couple, although young recent grads, knew immediately that there was something incredibly special and unique about their easy relationship. They both found they had the same core values, enjoyed a healthy, active lifestyle, enjoyed shopping, fashion, and sports. Once the couple was officially engaged, they decided to plan their wedding to be a New Year’s Eve celebration so the Groom’s family could easily travel from his native Nottingham, England.

The couple hired Kara Superfine of Bliss Weddings & Events to coordinate and design the details from the beginning. Emma and Thomas had yet to attend many weddings and needed much help shaping their vision. Kara was inspired by their early ideas and had a blast presenting them with the ideas that would fit their festive, formal, wintery Chicago wedding. The wedding and ceremony were held at The Racquet Club of Chicago – an intimate and charm-laden setting that felt more like someone’s home rather than an impersonal ballroom.

Kara helped them decide on a color palette that was soft and romantic composed of creams, grays, and a subtle dusty pink color. Jesse Deckard of Event Creative helped bring the vision to life. With hundreds of candles – from the custom shelved backdrop that framed the couple during their I-Dos to the dozens of votive candles suspended overhead during dinner – the evening had a celebratory feeling. The intimate guest count of 100 allowed for an unexpected floor plan of two exaggerated, long feasting tables instead of standard round tables. Guests were encouraged to wander the room, taking in the details, to find their hand calligraphed menu card donning their seating assignments. The tables were adorned with flickering candelabras and varied vintage vessels hosting bundles of hydrangea, roses, phalaenopsis orchids and anemones. A decadent dessert table, designed by Kara, hosted sweet treats including cookies and cupcakes from Sweet Mandy B’s, petite fours, croquembouche and maracons from Vanille Patisserie and color coordinated candies presented in bowls and jars.

The couple celebrated to the sounds of Bill Pollack Orchestra, straight up to the New Year when gloved servers handed out flutes of champagne and customized wedding confetti packets and noise makers to celebrate the start of the couple’s new beginning together.

Wedding Photography + Videography: Jeremy Bustos, StudioThisIs / Wedding Consultant + Design: Kara Superfine, Bliss Weddings and Events / Venue + Catering: The Racquet Club of Chicago / Floral, Lighting + Decor: Jesse Deckard, Event Creative / Entertainment: Bill Pollack Orchestra / Cupcakes + Cookies: Sweet Mandy B’s / Croquembouche, Petite Fours, Macarons: Vanille Patisserie / Hot Dog Cart: Carts Chicago / Transportation: Chicago Motor Coach / Beauty: Beauty on Call / Linens: BBJ Linen + Tablescapes Ltd. / Wedding Dress: Vera Wang / Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo / Paper Goods: Cheree Berry Paper

Okay, I know all of you out there have seen Sleepless in Seattle once or twice and when you do, you always get the chills when they meet on the top of the Empire State Building, right? I know it’s not just me! Well, imagine getting married there, right at the tippity top, to the love of your life with the entire city of New York as your backdrop. Talk about romantic! This film by Norris Films is sure to give you the chills as well as this adorable couple pledges their love for one another.

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/25582169 600 338]

From Norris Films…Recently I had the opportunity to film a wedding ceremony at the top of the Empire State Building in NYC.   This is only the second time in the history of the building that a wedding was held at the observatory deck.

Wedding Cinematography: Norris Films

There’s a whole lot of pretty, pretty details to adore in this charming Naples soiree by Aaron Bornfleth and from the the gorgeous gray and yellow color scheme to the beautiful blooms by Elaine Boucher and that fabulous feathered hair piece, I am completely smitten with each and every one.  But, what I am loving most of all is the adorable bride and groom and their beyond amazing wedding day story, which you most definitely need to/have to read below ASAP.  (Hint: The groom’s present to his lovely bride-to-be is gonna make you cry some seriously happy tears.)  And when you are done soaking in all of that lovely, there’s even more to smile about in the gallery, so be sure to join me there!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From Aaron Bornfleth… Just before their wedding, Emily gets a present, delivered by her maid of honor, Andrea, from Josh, her very soon to be husband. His present to her (gonna be hard to imagine how he’ll ever top this one), was a journal he kept “to my future wife.”  She never knew he was writing it.  The first entry, June 2nd, 2009.  Their first date?  One month later.

Emily and Josh’s wedding was a real honor to shoot because Josh’s mother, Andrea is a photographer herself, and not a bad one at that. She helped them find me. And when I met her at the rehearsal dinner (that the family generously invited Casey and I to), she was all smiling eyes, gratitude, pride and a bubble of giddiness.

Wedding Photography: Aaron Bornfleth / Makeup: MAC / Wedding Reception Location + Catering: Quail West Country Club / Wedding Videography: Christina + James of InMotion Video Productions / Entertainment: Scott + Tina Dean of A Sound Choice Entertainment / Flowers: Elaine Boucher

I can’t think of any other way I’d rather spend this lovely Tuesday morning than with my pumpkin spice latte and this stunning Chateau de Mirambeau soiree courtesy of the amazing Roey Yohai.  Yes, you read that right… A romantic chateau in France is the setting of this pretty, pretty affair and if that weren’t enough to grab your attention, it’s simply brimming with one lovely DIY detail after another from the talented bride and groom, including stunning invitations and paper goods, gorgeous jewelry and a beyond fabulous wedding gown.  And when you see that vibrant purple bouquet, I guarantee you’ll be just as smitten as me.  So, grab a cup of coffee and stay awhile.  There’s an entire gallery of pretty to enjoy!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From the Bride… Our wedding reflected our passion for food, love for travel, and our homage to our Chinese and American customs. We selected Chateau Mirambeau in Bordeaux as our wedding venue for its gastronomic experience, the renaissance architecture of the Chateau, and the scenic region of Mirambeau. We serendipitously stumbled across Chateau Mirambeau in one of our culinary vacations in Europe. The gastronomic culture, picturesque landscape of vineyards, and ancient cities from Saint-Emilion to Cognac immediately resonated with our wedding dream.

After selecting the Chateau, Henry, a social connoisseur of brandy, and I, an amateur chef, sought out the local delicacies of the region and embarked on a wonderful gourmet adventure, from collaborating with the chateau’s chef, where the chef tailored our wedding menu based on the regions famed ingredients and my discerning palate, to getting to know the local families that for several generations run the vineyards to assist us in selecting our wine parings.

The wedding details were led from my creative vision. I designed my wedding dress, jewelry, invitations, place cards, table signs, and etc. My inspiration for our wedding was based on our international upbringings and travels. The personalized details of our wedding were influenced by our Chinese and American traditions. From the auspicious Chinese tea ceremony, lucky gestures of the double happiness wedding cake topper on top of a macaron wedding cake and the Henry’s cufflinks to American traditions of bridesmaid, best man and groom’s speeches provided the unique international wedding experience within the majestic French environment. We have been together for most of our adult life together and truly believe that this destination wedding is an exceptional portrayal of our enduring love and international lives.

Wedding Photography: Roey Yohai Photodocumentary / Wedding Venue: Chateau de Mirambeau / Wedding Dress + Veil: The Bride (Design) + Selene / Engagement Ring + Wedding Bands: The Bride and Groom (Design) + Universal Jewelry / Hair: Votre Salon / Make-up: DIY / Invitation + Other Stationery: DIY, The Bride and Groom / Entertainment: Elan Artists

Max Wanger had us the moment he said hello. And showed us how ridiculously awesome he is with the playful but so-freaking-gorgeous engagement sesh he did with Joanna Goddard from A Cup of Joe. And from that moment on, there was no turning back. Our obsession with Max went full throttle ahead, with each of his weddings being even more beautiful, even more fun than the next. Well, this wedding just might have to take the cake. It’s Max’s art inspired photos sitting pretty next to the most beautiful, classic fete a girl could ever want (courtesy of the equally fab Beth Helmstetter) and the result…magic. Oh and don’t even get me started on those baby’s breath centerpieces. Click here to make it last just a little longer.

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From the Bride…With Patrick and I both growing up and meeting in California, we knew that there was nowhere else we wanted to tie the knot. Deciding on the location was a no brainer…The Bacara truly embodies California culture: from the food and wine selections to the Spanish style architecture and its location on the Santa Barbara coast. It was stunning, and it was perfect! With the help of Beth Helmstetter Events, we were able to make all of our most indulgent dreams become a reality!

In terms of décor we wanted very neutral, earthy tones that would complement the colors of the Bacara. I also wanted a lot of textures in our wedding day – everything from my dress, to the linens, the flowers,  to the cake – these all had feminine textural elements in clean, neutral colors that all tied in together.

Initially, we had planned to have an outdoor ceremony, but on the morning of our wedding we woke up to heavy mist along the coast. Of course, I started to panic….but our amazing team had a backup plan that turned out even more gorgeous than what we had originally wanted. Everything turned out for the best….the photos took on an amazing, dreamy quality to them, and until today I look back and thank my lucky stars that it drizzled!

Looking back, I would not have changed a single thing. I am so grateful that we were able to have all our friends and family together from all over the world to celebrate with us! Let’s do it again!

Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin / Bride’s Evening Gown: Rachel Gilbert / Grooms Tux + Shoes: Prada / Bridesmaid Dresses: Amsale / Groomsmen Tuxes: Elite Tuxedo / Wedding Cinematography: Aqua Vivus Productions / Wedding Photography: Max Wanger + Margaux Wanger of Max Wanger Photography / Photo Booth: Smilebooth / Event Design: Beth Helmstetter Events / Floral Design: Holly Flora / Hair + Make-up: TEAM Hair and Makeup / Bride’s Lashes: Tussanee of Integrity / Venue: The Bacara / Linens: La Tavola Linen / Calligraphy + Invitations: Laura Hooper Calligraphy / Bridesmaids Gifts: Papermade

Ahh, California weddings. I do love thee. So filled with beauty, with light, with romance, California brides have it made. And this bride in particular had is double made. She chose Alders Photography to capture all the perfect details of her big day, and let me just say that was one great decision. Alders Photography has a way of capturing the perfect California ambiance which is ever-so-present in every Golden State affair. Her work is gorgeous. You’ll definitely want to spend more time with this wedding, and lucky for you, there are SO many more beautiful, chic, very California details in the full image gallery.

Click here to see the full image gallery!

From Jenny of Alders Photography … Lisa and Shawn’s wedding was so picture perfect. The Stone House at Temecula Creek Inn was so rustic, quaint, and removed that you had to take a shuttle to get there.  The bride got ready with just her mom in the room, for some quality time together and for some calm before the storm.  Shawn, meanwhile, was surrounded by family, friends, groom’s men, and guest before the wedding ceremony.  And when Lisa finally saw Shawn for the first time that day, although it was from afar as she crossed the bridge with her brother, you could tell that both Shawn and Lisa gave a sigh of relief to be seeing their future spouse.  And they were inseparable the rest of the day.  As the couple swayed back and forth together during their first dance, it almost seemed like a bubble formed around them, a moment no one else could touch.

Venue: The Stone House at Temecula Creek Inn / Photography: Alders Photography / Planner: Alison de Jong / Florist: The Enchanted Florist / Catering: Temecula Creek Inn / Entertainment: Mike Robbins / Hair & Makeup: Amanda McCarthy / Dress: La Sposa, Denia

How incredibly amazing does an Australian destination wedding sound? Well as amazing as it may sound, it looks even better than you can imagine when seen through the lens of NK Photography. Just wait until you take a little scroll through all the pretty, you’ll see just what I mean. What makes this Australian affair even more ooh and ahhh worthy are the overflowing florals designed by Natural Art Flowers. To.die.for. Seriously, the floral crown on that downright darling flower girl just cannot be topped. Cannot I tell you. But I don’t need to tell you – you can see it all for yourself in the full gallery of images, and don’t forget you can get your daily dose of Australian pretty on our SMP Australia Weddings local blog!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From the Bride…From the time you’re a little girl you always dream about your perfect wedding day – my wedding day was all that I could’ve imagined and more.  Craig and I live in Toronto, Canada, so planning a wedding across the globe was a bit of challenge but with the help of our fabulous mothers, the day turned out to be everything we’d dreamt of!

Winter weddings in Perth tend to be fairly unusual given the cool, wet weather at this time.  To compliment the weather, we chose a colour theme of deep, rich winter colours primarily made up of purples and burgundy.  We also wanted to make the most of the usual flowers available during the winter months; Rebecca Grace was an absolute godsend in this regard providing the most stunning array of flowers and also the gorgeous layout of the reception room.

Despite having loads of assistance from our mothers and a fabulous florist/stylist, Craig and I also wanted to include a few of our own personal touches, these included – hand stamping and rolling 140 named napkin rings and printing our own menus, orders of service and candy bags.  I also carted back to Australia over 14kg of purple candy ordered from the US!  From the ceremony, which was held at my school chapel to the reception where a 12 piece jazz band kept the guests dancing until late into the night, the day/night was just amazing!  Advice to future brides is to take a moment during your special day to sit back with your new husband and take it all in because as quickly as it seems to come, it’s over even faster!

Wedding Photography: NK Photography / Floral Design: Rebecca Grace of Natural Art Flowers / Wedding Dress: Vera Wang / Bride’s Shoes: Chanel / Men’s Attire: Paul Smith / Reception Location: The University of Western Australia / Ceremony Location: St. Hilda’s Private School / Rings: Rohan Jewelry / Make-up: Thiana Sperry

When modern meets New York, it’s always a match made in heaven and then when you add in a fabulously creative couple with their own Film Company and design and styling by Hatch Creative Studio, the wedding turns into a total home-run. We’re talking right out of the park, Babe Ruth style. Creativity is bursting from every little inch of this fête, including an amazing installation of paper chains, a flash mob during the ceremony and a cool as can be logo representing the water towers above STUDIO 450 where the festivities took place. Dave Robbins Photography snapped all the goodness from beginning to end and believe me, you’ll want to take a trip to the gallery for the full day. It’s New York at its finest.

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From the Bride…We fell in love with the venue because it was a beautiful all white space, and we wanted to embrace the stark whiteness of it, the blank canvas, but add some accents and warmth.  Lots of little candles everywhere.  We wanted to express the beauty of the urban environment, and take advantage of the rawness of the studio space in a cool industrial chic way.  But still beautiful, and a little unexpected. We wanted our guests to feel a sense of delight.  We wanted the venue to feel very New York, but “our” New York.

On the roof of the venue (Studio 450) there are two giant water towers, and water towers became a design element that we used in our Save The Date, Invitations, Website, our ‘logo,’ and embossed by hand on the cover of our programs. It’s hard to explain why we like watertowers so much — style, functionality, and unexpected beauty.  They invite you to look up, and once you do, you see the city in an entirely new way.  There’s a metaphor in there for marriage somewhere!

The paper chain idea was to make a beautiful mess of paper chains behind the ceremony space. We like the symbolism of the chains, joining links, as we join our lives together, as a couple, but also with our family and community. But we also liked the idea of taking a very common and humble material like paper and transforming it into something unique and beautiful.  Barb and Nelson took this little seed of an idea, and transformed it into an incredible installation that far exceeded our expectations.  It wasn’t just a backdrop for our ceremony … it became part of our ceremony.  It became a representation of our community, and all the different friendships and relationships that had collectively brought us to this moment in our lives. What started as design idea has now taken on a life of its own.  After getting married we formed a production company together: Paper Chain Productions.  The name now represents to us not only our wedding, but our partnership, our connected community of friends and family, and the idea that you can build something beautiful and inspiring, from a simple scrap of paper.

We were engaged for a year and a half, which is a super long time to be in the ‘planning stage’ of a wedding.  By the time the wedding rolled around, we felt pretty planned out!  So we decided it would be fun to have a moment of ‘planned spontaneity’ during our wedding ceremony, and we invited our lovely and fearless friends to help us execute it. Two days before the wedding we sent out an email to a group of our friends, asking them to participate in an impromptu performance smack in the middle of our ceremony.  We didn’t know what to call it at the time, but a ‘flash mob’ comes close.  We didn’t ask anybody to rehearse, and we had no idea how many of our friends would actually participate, let alone if the idea would work.  But that wasn’t the point.  The point was to do something fun, and utterly in the moment.  It was wonderful, and is one of our favorite memories of the day.  At the end of the readings, a friend stood up in his chair, and belted out “It don’t mean a thing, if it ain’t got that swing.” Followed by 15 or so of our friends standing up and joining in “Doo-ah, doo-ah, doo-ah, doo-ah, doo-ah, doo-ah, doo-ah, doo-ah, doo-ah!”  This happened twice, and the entire thing lasted maybe 30 seconds.  It was perfect. Looking out to see our friends and relatives bravely standing up and “doo-wah-ing” and dancing their hearts out, seeing the surprised and delighted looks on every one else’s faces, and hearing the explosion of laughter…it was such a sweet release, and connected everyone with each other for the more serious moments that followed.

Wedding Planner: Just About Married, Rebecca Joyce / Event + Floral Design: Hatch Creative Studio / Wedding Photography: Dave Robbins Photography / Photo Booth: We Love Photobooths / Invitation Design: Mother of the Bride / Officiant: Friend of the Groom / Ceremony + Reception Venue: STUDIO 450 / Lighting: Lightworks Interactive / Catering: Marcey Brownstein Catering + Events / Wedding Cake Decor: Hatch Creative Studio / Hair + Make-up: Face Time Beauty Concierge / Wedding Dress: Saja Wedding / Bride’s Shoes: Stuart Weitzman / Ring Box: Bride’s Great Great Grandfather’s Snuff Box / Logo + Map Design: Mark Stinson (Groom’s Step-Brother)

The garden party is a popular wedding theme that we see around here and for good reason too.  The al fresco dining and abundance of fragrant florals make for a very romantic evening.  But it’s always fun for us to see how different folks interpret the typical garden party.  This lovely photo shoot by Erica B Photography and New Sunrise Events is a fun twist on the classic look with a cool California flair.  Succulents are tucked in with typical garden flowers like roses and peonies for a modern touch that looks oh-so chic.  See all the gorgeous garden details in the full gallery!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From Erica B Photography…In this style shoot we were inspired by the beautiful combination of summertime berries and French lace. There is such a delicate and feminine impression when you place these elements together. And we thought what better way to highlight this combination than creating an elegant and charming set-up in a beautiful garden backdrop.

The magnificent Kohl Mansion garden was the perfect location, creating a fresh and clean scenery for our shoot. We used a combination of blush pink, peach, sage green with touches of dainty lace and fresh red berries details for the table set-up. Everything from the extensive flourish on the stationery and china to the Juliet garden roses centerpieces played off these elements, resulting in a beautiful escape. Even the drink and dessert station carried these elements with our Berry Water, individually wrapped Madelines and laced cake.

Although there is a timeless elegance here, our model shows that there is a still a fun and relaxed air to this set-up with her short wedding dress and playful headpiece. This would be a great set-up for a nice brunch or afternoon reception. And any guest would be in awe as they walked into this heavenly realm.

Coordinator: New Sunrise Events / Photography: Erica B Photography / Venue: Kohl Mansion / Rentals: Classic Party Rentals / Florist: Tanjeeryn Designs / Stationery: Cards de Luxe / Make-Up Artist: Skyla Arts / Headpiece: One World Designs Jewelry / Baker: Thorough Bread + Pastry / Cake Topper: Better Off Wed / Dress: J.Crew / Shoes: Bebe

Serendipity Corner was the mastermind behind this lovely engagement shoot and it’s the perfect way to start off the week. It’s all at once gorgeous, charming and a celebration of love and the simple pleasures of life. With Rebecca Isgrove Reah on the concept and styling helm and Clementine Posy whipping up the prettiest of florals, this is indeed a picnic in engagement paradise. And that’s not all folks. There is the cutest film to go along with all this goodness so stay tuned. Catch up on the full shoot here!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

And rounding up the cuteness is this lovely little ditty shot by Amy Nelson-Blain of Wedding Cinematography. Have a looky loo…

From Serendipity Corner…Back in May 2011 I sent an email to Tabitha congratulating her on her engagement. I’ve then asked her who the lucky photographer was for her wedding as I know being a creative person like Tabitha (so creative that she even designed a website for her wedding) the day will be full of gorgeous details to photograph. Little it be known that she was actually interested in booking me for her wedding. It was not long after this that I was being deeply influenced by my new discovery of Kinfolk Magazine. The magazine itself is a reflection of this unpretentious celebration of simple things in life. Where finding simple beauty in small gathering, stripping away the unnecessary trappings to get a true warmth and love we feel when celebrating with our closest and dearest.

It immediately occurred to me that this style was a perfect fit for Tabitha and Dan’s engagement session photo shoot. I straight away called Rebecca our stylist for this shoot to work on a concept that focuses on food and celebration. Having gathered a creative team together, we were off on a beautiful Sydney spring day to shoot. On reflection, when planning this shoot the creative team and vendors have meshed together so seamlessly right from the very beginning. Rebecca our stylist, had worked on the concept that the styling for this shoot should reflect simplicity and celebration of love. We wanted to let the day unfold as Tabitha and Dan set their picnic table and just enjoyed being together to celebrate their engagement. In planning for this shoot we had made sure that our vendors Sydney Picnic Co. (who provided us with a gourmet picnic hamper) and Clementine Posy (with pretty spring colours to brighten up the picnic setting – who both so proudly handmade their creations with love), shines through in the images. These are evident in the lovingly handwritten handmade tags and carefully picked flowers perfect for the scenes we have in mind.

Tabitha and Daniel met at a church in Sydney. Tabitha grew up in the outer suburbs of Sydney and Dan was from Bathurst, out in the Country. After dating for a little over a year, Dan took Tabitha on a day trip, over the easter long weekend to his family farm, near his home town. After a lovely big lunch, including veggies from the farm cooked by Dan’s Aunty , Dan took her for a walk around the farm, showing her the amazing views and the cows. When they got to the top over looking the farm they had a short nap in the sunshine, then continued to walk over to a spectacular view of the country side, and there he got down on one knee and proposed! Asking her about 3 times, just to be sure she knew it was for real! Of course she said yes!

Photography: Serendipity Corner / Cinematography: Amy Nelson-Blain of Wedding Cinematography / Make-up Artist: Megan Vaughan / Hair Stylist: Melissa Cauchi / Concept + Styling: Rebecca Isgrove Reah / 2nd Shooter: Anneliese Christensen / Flowers: Clementine Posy / Picnic Hamper: Sydney Picnic Co.

As you all know by now, we here at SMP are all about the details and let me just tell you, this gorgeous Ontario wedding is filled to the brim with the prettiest kinds of details. But then again, what else would you expect from Melissa Andre Events? They literally handled everything from the planning, the design, to yes, even the flowers and make-up! Talk about a talented team! Eclipse Photography was there to capture all the details and there’s so much more where that came from! Join us in the gallery to get your fill of pretty inspiration.

See entire image gallery here!

From Melissa Andre of Melissa Andre Events: I used shades of soft lavender and soft lemony yellows when designing this adorable spring fete! We gave guests lovely little elderflower honey favors. i searched all over the city for ribbons with lovely little patterns _ yellow polka dots… lavender stripes… yellow gingham… we used these ribbon to wrap the vases and the bouquets. This bride’s spirit was so sweet and so excited i wanted to give her the wedding of her dreams! I worked with the cake designer nadia (a good friend of the bride’s) to design each individual little treat so that i could style the most adorable little sweet table for them! I brought bushels of real lemons to stage the lemonade stand but prettied the lemonade up with champagne flutes and fresh berries.

I think it’s safe to say that I am absolutely obsessed with the variety of weddings we see here on SMP Texas.  Traditional ballroom affairs, vintage soirees, garden parties…  You name it and it’s happening in Texas, complete with uber-chic style, amazing details and more than a few brides in cowboy boots.  And today there’s a glamorous lakeside fête to add to my ever-growing list of Lone Star State loves.  One filled to the brim with gorgeous blooms by Verbena Floral Design, a lovely blue, purple and pink color palette, an adorable bride and groom and an entire gallery of stunning images by She-n-He Photography and Design.  Oh, Texas.  I couldn’t love you more if I tried.  Join me in the gallery for all of the pretty!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From the Bride… When Nick proposed, I was currently living in New York City, so I had less than a year to plan a large wedding in my home state of Texas.  New York is a beautiful place, so we decided to take our engagement pictures in Brooklyn, but I knew that if I was going to get married in Texas, I wanted to be outdoors to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Texas Hill country. I chose to have the ceremony at Vintage Villas – the altar overlooked Lake Travis as the sun began to set, and we said our vows below a large, vine-covered gazebo.

From the beginning, I knew that I wanted an abundance of fresh flowers at my wedding.  I worked at a plant nursery during college, so I already had a long list of specific varieties and colors that I wanted to use. Verbena Floral Design brought my ideas together and made arrangements that were more beautiful than I could have imagined! We used old cheese boxes and tree stumps to hold the centerpieces, and set a large tree stump below our wedding cake, designed by Hill Country Cakes. We didn’t just want the plain old white-on-white, so Hill Country Cakes prepared a lemon cake with raspberry filling and buttercream frosting…delicious AND beautiful.

Finally, everything that I treasured about my wedding was captured perfectly by She-N-He Photography.  “She” (Melanie Grizzel) was absolutely amazing, and my friends and family can’t stop talking about how fun she was at the wedding! Melanie traveled all the way to New York to take our engagements and had so many great ideas. The wedding, and my memories of it, wouldn’t have been the same without her!

Floral Design: Verbena Floral Design / Wedding Photography: She-n-He Photography and Design / Wedding Venue: Vintage Villas / Wedding Cake: Hill Country Cakes / Wedding Dress: Michelle Bridal in Brooklyn, NY

Monday mornings are perfect for foggy weddings. What is it about foggy-day weddings that is so absolutely romantic? Maybe it’s because everything seems closer and more intimate somehow. Or maybe it’s the lighting. Whatever it is, I’m proclaiming myself president of the foggy-day wedding club. I’m also proclaiming myself present of the fan club for this California wedding. Sent to us by Amber Events, the whole affair has put me into a fog-induced tizzy, and I’m so excited to share it. The best part though? Definitely Mason & Jay’s engagement story. SO cute – and so we’ve-all-been-there. Make sure to save some time to read that – after you check out the full image gallery!

Photography by Keith Nelson Photography & Douglas Hill Photography.

About ten years ago we were both invited to a dinner with about six other people by our friends Leanna and Rinat. They participated in our wedding. Their intent is that we meet and fall madly in love. Well, at the dinner we barely spoke, we sat at opposite ends of the table, and didn’t really notice each other. So much for that match!

Then, about three years after that dinner, on the very weekend I passed my license exam to become a Marriage and Family Therapist, we both happened to be at the same party of a mutual friend. I thought Mason looked familiar and heard someone say his name. I went over to him and asked if he was Leanna’s friend and we began chatting. This time there was a big spark, the timing was right, and we’ve been together ever since.

As for engagement, it was a little unceremonious. When marriage was legal in California, neither of us was ready to get married. We were, and are, confident that it will be legal again once and for all. A year ago on July fourth we returned home from some holiday festivities and promptly began arguing about finances. In response to a comment Mason said, I replied, “Well none of this would be an issue if we were married!” And Mason said, “Well, we should be married!” I said, “Are you asking me to marry you?” And Mason replied, “I want you to wear my wedding ring.” The finance argument faded away and we immediately shifted our focus to planning what would be one of the greatest celebrations imaginable.

Planning & Design: Amber Events / Caterers: Auntie Em’s Catering / Photography: Keith Nelson Photography & Douglas Hill Photography / Floral: Holly Flora / Rentals: Town & Country / DJ: Quinn Callicot / Lighting: Aspect Lighting / Groom’s Stylist: Vincent Castellanos at Sy Devore,  suits made in Italy / Venue: Friend of the couple’s Tomato Farm

What is pink, sweet and chic all over?  That would have to be this adorable Chicago celebration by Ashley Biess Photography.  It is just jam-packed with cute and classic details, romantic, feminine flair and some super fun DIY projects.  Everything that could possibly be oh-so right about a elegant barn-meets-ballroom bash.  See all the lovely little details in the full gallery!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From the Bride…Our intimate, Midwest wedding was planned over the course of our two-year engagement. We kept things simple, yet elegant while staying true to our laid back personalities through unique details. We opted for non-traditional music during the ceremony, therefore a string trio performed current tunes such as “Yellow” by Coldplay and  “Come Away with Me” by Norah Jones. Our grand exit was accompanied to the tune of “All You Need is Love” by the Beatles. Ribbon wands were used in lieu of traditional rice or bubbles for the grand exit from the church.

Personalized cootie catchers were placed on each table at the reception hall and revealed fun facts about us, entertaining guests before the party began. Guests were prompted to take goofy photos/videos from disposable cameras and flip camcorders by following the I Spy set of instructions. Slipper socks were provided to keep guests comfortable out on the dance floor. Instead of a guestbook, our wedding guests provided us with wisdom and advice on a large, canvas frame that has been since been hung in our bedroom. My favorite flowers, orchids, were used in all of the floral arrangements and as cake decorations. Our wedding colors were dusty rose and charcoal grey.

Our beautiful pictures were taken at Peck Farm Park in Geneva, IL which is my hometown. The day was a dream and we couldn’t have been happier!

Wedding Photography: Ashley Biess Photography / Wedding Cinematography: Studio One Naperville / Flowers: Town and Country Gardens / Wedding Planning: The Bride and Mother of the Bride / Ceremony Location: Batavia Covenant Church / Reception Location: Abbington Distinctive Banquets / Invitations: InvitationPie.com / Bride’s Shoes: J.Crew / Wedding Dress: Adele Wechsler / Bridesmaid Dresses: After Six / Tuxedos: Formally Modern Tuxedo / Bridal Jewelry: Susan G. Allen / Bridesmaid Bracelets: The Wedding Etc. / Make-up + Hair Services: One Bridal Company / Wedding Cake: La Petite Sweet

We’re welcoming you back to another wonderful week of pretty, pretty inspiration with this insanely gorgeous DIY affair courtesy of the brilliant Elyse Hall Photography.  And what a welcome it is.  With a plethora of beyond fabulous details crafted by the talented (and uber-adorable) bride and groom, the greatest sweetheart table of all time and my new favorite wedding gown, this soiree is garden party perfection in absolutely every way possible.  And I am in LOVE.  Needless to say, I’ll be spending the next few hours (or days) wrapped up in every last beautiful moment… And I suggest you do the same.  Join me in the gallery for even more!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From the Bride… I hadn’t been to very many weddings; my parents’ wedding was on a mountain with less than ten guests and other family weddings were similarly small. No one really had any idea of etiquette or how to even begin planning (that’s when blogs like SMP became invaluable in inspiring me and helping focus my ideas). I had a vision for the day that I often had trouble articulating. I wanted it to feel like a 1920’s garden party, like something out of The Great Gatsby, but I also wanted eclectic, artsy, feminine touches. Too, it was important to me to be as environmentally conscious as possible. My husband was very easy-going, whatever made me happy made him happy, although he made it very clear he did not want to wear suspenders or a bow tie, and that some level of formality was important to him. We agreed that we didn’t want it to feel like a cookie-cutter wedding, and that great food, beautiful, natural surroundings, and good company, were our priorities.

We didn’t have a “color palette” or unifying theme (Which seemed to constantly stress people out…You don’t have a color scheme? You don’t have a theme? You are planning to do WHAT yourself?! Are you crazy?!). I had a million different ideas and at times wasn’t sure if I even knew the aesthetic I was “going for.” How could a wedding be ethereal and whimsical, simple and clean, artsy and earthy and fun and formal all at the same time? When one guest claimed, rather drunkenly, to be Jay Gatsby, and another, very sweetly, told me it looked like “an Anthropologie wedding” I knew somehow my vision had become reality.

I think the wedding felt very intimate, very homespun, because that’s exactly what it was, and had to be. We had a pretty small budget, and managed to stay under $10,000 for around 100 people. It helped that I am an artist, and was able to make a lot of things myself. I also did my own hair and most of the bridesmaid’s hair and make-up. DIY was the theme of the day, and probably a bit of an understatement. Aside from our gorgeous venue, Agua Linda Farm, and our absolutely amazing photographer, Elyse Hall, everything, from food to flowers to invitations, was done by friends and family.

There were times throughout the planning process, especially as I completed my student teaching and other degree requirements simultaneously (Did I mention, my husband and I graduated from the University of Arizona the WEEK before the wedding? It was a crazy time, absolutely bonkers, and I had the grey hairs to prove it.), when all I wanted to do was go back in time and elope. There were a ton of things that I’d had my heart set on but ran out of money or time to make them happen, or that didn’t happen quite as I’d planned, but now that it’s over I am so very thankful that I got to spend that time with the people who I love most in the world and feel overwhelmed, when I think back on it, with the support and graciousness of my beautiful family.

Wedding Photography: Elyse Hall Photography / Catering: Solaris Restaurant / Videography: Friend of the Bride / Music: Friends of the Bride / Wedding Venue: Agua Linda Farm / Wedding Ceremony Dress: Raylia Designs, Inc. via Maya Palace / Wedding Reception Dress: J.Crew via eBay / Bride’s Shoes: Steve Madden / Bride’s Rings: Antique Jewelry Exchange (1920’s Antique) + Bride’s Grandma (vintage turquoise borrowed and old, and blue) / Bride’s Earrings: J.Crew / Bride’s Make-up: Dana at MAC Cosmetics, Tucson Mall / Bride’s Hair: The Bride / Bride’s Hairpiece: Twigs & Honey / Bridesmaid Dresses: Coralie Beatrix / Bridesmaid Jewelry: The Bride / Groom’s Suit: Banana Republic / Groom’s Ring: Fabluster / Groomsmen Suits + Ties: Men’s Warehouse / Button Production: Small World Buttons / Ring Warming Dishes: The Bride / Flowers: The Bride + Her Aunts / Styling + Planning: The Bride / Guestbook: Bride’s Mother / Button, Program + Invitation Artwork: The Bride / Dessert: Friends and Family of the Bride

Good morning Georgia-brides-to-be! Welcome back to what promises to be another fabulous week here at SMP Georgia. Kicking things off is this pretty purple and yellow fete captured beautifully by Light Love Laughter Photography. We’re loving the fun, laid back feel of this day and are literally drooling over the brides gorgeous dress! Oh, and the fact that the bride married her best friend’s brother? Well, we think that’s really cool too! What could be better than becoming sisters with your BFF and marrying the love of your life? Click here for even more!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From Light Love Laughter Photography…Whitney met Danielle in college and they became fast friends and eventually were the best of friends… little did Whitney know Danielle’s brother would be her future husband…making them sisters (in-law)! Danielle invited Whitney over for her family’s game night and that’s when she met Ryan, she didn’t really pay too much attention at first. I mean how was dating her best friend’s brother not SUPER awkward!? Eventually Whitney found herself at Danielle’s house…but not to hang out with her but to spend time with her brother. They moved past the “awkward” stage and it wasn’t long before things became pretty serious and they started talking about their future together and involving each other. Their wedding was the hottest day of the summer, the very last day of July but it couldn’t have been more beautiful! Their love runs deep and their giddy with excitement for their future together.

Venue: Waters Mill / Wedding Dress: Anya Bridal / Bride’s Engagement + Wedding Ring: Genesis Diamonds / Groom’s Wedding Band: Forever Diamonds / Flowers: Waters Mill / Hair: Christie Bazemore / Wedding Photography: Light Love Laughter Photography

Sometimes (ok, all the time) I crave travel to a tropical location like other people crave chocolate. It’s one of the (many) reasons I LOVE the Destination blog. It’s my daily dose of destination goodness, and keeps my cravings at bay a bit. So I can promise you that this Bahama beauty by Ben Jamieson Photography is where my imagination will be for the rest of the day. With its beach meets traditional meets gorgeous vibe, it makes for a gallery of images worthy of your best destination day-dreaming.

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From the Bride…Lyford Cay in the Bahamas is a very special place not only to my family, but also to Mac and me. It was there in the sea that Mac proposed on New Years Eve day 2009 as we waited to go snorkeling with my three brothers. I had my goggles and flippers in hand making my way toward Mac. As I drew closer, he knelt on one knee in the water until he was chest-deep, and then he pulled an opened ring box from the pocket of his board shorts. I cried and laughed at the same time. There was no doubt in either of our minds that The Lyford Cay Club would be the location for our July 2, 2011 nuptials. My grandparents had lived there since 1960, and it became a second home to my family; in fact, my brothers and I were all christened at the Church of St. Christopher’s. As a little girl, I remember sitting in church counting the number of pews and people that could fit into each pew. This would dictate the maximum number of guests who could attend my wedding – 98.

Since July in the Bahamas can be toasty and the ceremony took place in a unairconditioned church only “cooled” by paddle fans, we left straw fans with ribbon ties in the pews for the guests to use. Also, at the reception, rather than a guestbook, I found some really neat and unique “Well Wishes” tags with a starfish print on it which we asked our guests to write a “well wish” for the newly married couple. Alongside the tags, there was a Polaroid camera so the guests could take pictures of each other as they walked in. Ideally, Mac and I would then match up the pictures with the well wishes to create a sort of scrapbook (we have yet to get to that!). Naturally, our intention was to incorporate as much local influence as possible. Our color scheme reflected and included the natural landscape of our surroundings. We used green, white and silver accented by shells and flowers of the Bahamas. We encouraged everyone to enjoy the laid back Caribbean feel, while still offering them an elegant and traditional evening. We wanted to stray from the barefoot, beach wedding vibe and leave that for the after-party. We opted to use all local vendors: Ben Jamieson Photography, Wildflowers, Visage (band), and Anne Lever (cake). And, our menu boasted local catch of the day and conch prepared every which way. The real icing on the cake – pun intended – was a surprise appearance by a costumed Junkanoo band that Mac and I planned for all the guests. During Visage’s set break, we had a Junkanoo rush, which gave everyone a true feel for a Bahamian celebration. And then the band returned… There was not a single guest left dry from all the dancing!

Both our families were so instrumental in planning our wedding. We are incredibly appreciative of their constant love and support throughout the process. In addition to my mom, each of my brothers contributed by designing invitations, creating a “Save the Date” video and a wedding “highlight” video, planning a fishing trip, and shipping large packages to Nassau for me. A large contributor to the flawlessness of the evening, though, was The Lyford Cay Club. Not only is it a beautiful venue, but the food is also wonderful, and everyone involved was so helpful and accommodating. It was a perfect location for our wedding. Looking back on the evening, there is not one thing Mac and I would change. We are so grateful to all of our family and close friends who flew to Nassau to help us celebrate.

Wedding Photography: Ben Jamieson Photography / Flowers: Wildflowers / Band: Visage / Wedding Cake: Anne Lever / Hair + Make-up: Anna Berardelli-Knowles at The Albany / Ceremony Location: Church of St. Christopher’s / Reception Location: The Lyford Cay Club / Wedding Dress: Claire Pettibone / Bridesmaids Dresses: twobirds Bridesmaid via Gilt Groupe / Groom’s Suit: J.Crew / Groom + Groomsmen Ties: Collared Greens / Additional Photography Credits: Cam Brooks

One of the great things about living in Massachusetts is the close proximity to all of the beautiful places in New England. When I was engaged I must have dragged my sister and fiancé all over New England, including Maine, before finally settling on a little barn in New Hampshire, but I’ll never forget the rustic beauty we encountered in Maine. It’s just the perfect location for a wedding. And this next wedding, with gorgeous images from Michelle Turner Photography is the proof. I can literally smell the fresh, crisp, clean air in these images and I’m totally head over heels for all the nature inspired decor. See even more here!

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From Michelle Turner Photography…Martha and Eliot met while they were both stationed at Brunswick Naval Air Station in Maine.  Several years, base reassignments, and deployments separated them, but their wedding day marked the beginning of their life together, as they were both finally assigned to Virginia- at the same base again for the first time since Brunswick NAS.  Their ceremony site was situated overlooking the Penobscot River at historic Fort Knox in Maine- this picturesque piece of American history served as the beautiful backdrop for these two active duty naval aviators.  Martha and Eliot radiated love throughout the day, smiling and laughing at each other constantly.  The ceremony was punctuated by moments of tenderness and humor- they had several surprises for each other, and Eliot (and most of the guests in attendance) was first surprised and then delighted as the cannons were fired upon the pronouncement of the two as husband and wife.  Likewise, Martha was surprised by the two antique vehicles (one of them an antique Mack Truck!) which appeared to whisk her to and from the reception site.  The fireworks display and sparkler exit was a surprise to all of the guests, who enjoyed each and every unexpected turn of the wedding day.

Wedding Photography: Michelle Turner Photography / Ceremony Location: Fort Knox / Event Planning + Reception Location: The Retreat at French’s Point / Tent: Sperry Seacoast Tents / Flowers: Branch Pond Flowers / Fireworks: Central Maine Pyrotechnics / Wedding Dress: Lea Ann Belter / Jacket: Sandi McKeen