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

Vintage Chanel and Modern Romance Come Together in This San Miguel de Allende Wedding

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

I did not have any official wedding colors, but I drew from the beauty of San Miguel when making design choices. I wanted there to be hints of terra cotta orange and dark green throughout the weekend.

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

My vision for the wedding was not traditional. I wanted the reception to feel moody, with dim lighting and lots of candles. I wanted my guests to feel as if they were having dinner at a friend’s house, rather than dining at a reception. I was also heavily inspired by the stone and greenery in Casa San Jose. I felt it was both whimsical and homey at the same time.

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The first night I saw Gordie, a friend and I sent him and his friends drinks from across the restaurant. They ended up coming over to say thank you, and we all had a drink together. Gordie asked for my number that night, and we went out on a proper date the next weekend. We didn’t spend much time apart after that. We were engaged two years later in Napa, California. Staying true to ourselves, it was just the two of us, sitting on a blanket overlooking a vineyard. No friends, family, or photographers. I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]From the first time I saw Danielle Frankel’s wedding dresses, I knew that was exactly what I wanted. I wanted something simple, but unique. Danielle Frankel does such an amazing job of making her dresses romantic yet edgy. My engagement ring, both of the wedding bands, and the earrings I wore on the day of the wedding were all designed and made by my cousin, Nicole Rottler Harlow. She makes everything by hand in her studio in Taylor, Mississippi. Mississippi has always been a very special place to me, and I knew very early on that I wanted Nicole to have her hand in all of the jewelry I would be wearing. The story behind my rehearsal dinner dress is also very special. When talking with my stylist, Emily Dawson (@Emily_bydesign), I told her I did not want to wear white the whole weekend. I wanted to incorporate different colors and vintage clothing when possible. Emily is the queen of vintage. She ended up finding me a vintage 1970s Chanel dress. I knew wearing black to my rehearsal dinner might be frowned upon by some, but I couldn’t have been happier with the dress, and more importantly, how it perfectly represented beautiful, romantic vintage clothing, while still giving me a bit of an edge that I was looking for.
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Gordie’s tux was handmade by the brand Hamilton (very fitting), a brand Gordie has been using for costume dress shirts and pants for years. It was an obvious choice for Gordie, and one he felt very confident and comfortable making.

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When choosing the food for the reception, we knew we wanted to stay true to Mexico. Penzi made it impossible for our guests to have a bad meal. People couldn’t stop raving about the poblano corn soup.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

When it came to florals, I wanted them to feel natural. Since my vision was to keep the reception feeling homy, I did not want anything over the top. I went with simple, white flowers and greenery. The florals brought out the beauty of Casa San Jose, rather than distracting from it. One thing that was very important to Gordie and me was making our guests feel appreciated and loved. We kept our guest list very small for this reason. Gordie and I wrote letters to each of our guests, which were waiting for them at their seats to come dinner time. It was a great way to remind ourselves how truly blessed we are to be surrounded by such great friends, and we could tell it was a touch that made everyone feel like an important part of Gordie and I’s life together.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Unlike most aspects of my wedding, I wanted to be very traditional when it came to the wedding cake. I stuck with the classic almond-flavored sponge and vanilla buttercream. I loved the natural and imperfect florals that dotted the icing. The cake itself felt like a part of the background.

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

When discussing what we wanted for our ceremony, Gordie and I decided it was essential that the person marrying us knew us well. We asked our friend Brad Neunuebel. Brad and Gordie were roommates freshman year of college and have been best friends ever since. Brad was with Gordie the night we met, so he has truly been there to see our relationship grow and change from the very beginning. Brad has become such an important and amazing friend to me over the years, and we really couldn’t have imagined anyone else marrying us. Brad was able to incorporate details about Gordie and Imeas individuals as well as a couple. He also threw in a quote by my favorite author, William Faulkner, which proved Brad was the right person for the job. “You don’t love because: you love despite; not for the virtues, but despite the faults”. -William Faulkner

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Gordie and I wanted an intimate and small wedding, but also did not want the stress of sharing our vows publicly. We always knew we would write them for each other, but we weren’t sure how to share them in a meaningful way. We decided to read them to one another the morning of our wedding day. We woke up, ordered breakfast, and read our vows to one another before saying goodbye for the last time before meeting at the altar. It was one of the most special and meaningful memories I have from the entire weekend.

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One of the funniest memories I have from the weekend is the game of putting your drink on your head. It sounds weird, but throughout the weekend, one person would casually hold their drink above their head and wait for everyone else to notice and join in. The last person to pick up on the game would have to take a sip of their drink. This led to some hilarious photos and memories of tables and crowds of people with their drinks held above their heads.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]Another great memory from the weekend is the time I got to spend with my friends before getting ready for the wedding. I was adamant about not wanting to feel stressed and overwhelmed throughout the weekend. I wanted to look back on the whole weekend and remember moments of joy instead of stress. I spent time with my friends out by the pool at The Rosewood Hotel until just two or three hours before I would walk down the aisle. Some people would think this is crazy, but it allowed me to avoid overthinking. I did get sunburned and had a funny tan line you can see in my wedding dress, but it was worth it![/field]
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Penzi Weddings

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Western Glam Meets Disco Dreams at Diamond Cross Ranch

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

We let Mother Nature do the talking when creating the designs for this wedding weekend. The calm, idyllic setting of Jackson Hole in the Fall is one of a kind. The Birch Trees with their golden leaves were the direct inspiration for the Welcome Party. And the rolling tumbleweeds and natural burgundy of the influence of Fall are what directed our path for the wedding.

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

Vignette Florals’ creative floral genius brought both events to life with unique and locally influenced design touches within the color palette. The Bride wanted a Western Glam vibe for the wedding, and the rustic Diamond Cross Ranch venue was the perfect scene. We designed a beautiful, clear top tent and wood flooring paired with stunning floral arrangements and disco balls for the glamorous touch. The Bride had two main wishes when she came to us for her wedding. I want Jello Shots and Disco Balls, but make it Western. I think it’s safe to say we achieved this.

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Fashion was not missing from this wedding weekend. From the lace white bodysuit for the Welcome Party, to the long-sleeved, high neck classic gown for the ceremony, to the sleek white gown with arm fringe and a cowboy hat for the Sunset, they were all showstopping looks.

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The bridesmaids wore an assorted mix of velvet dresses that complemented the scenery in burnt gold shades, greens, and a touch of burgundy. They were the perfect complement to the Bride.

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Whoever said wedding food had to be overly fancy? This couple wanted food that was delicious without all the fluff, and Maho Catering brought the elevated comfort food to steal the show! Oh, and remember, we want Western Glam, so there were Pink Glitter Champagne Jello Shots available as guests entered the dinner tent per the Bride’s request.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Between Vignette Florals’ unique and thoughtful approach to all things floral and design, we knew this would be a focal component for the wedding design. We leaned on the lush and diverse floral types that lend themselves to the WY beauty while still feeling elevated. The Top Rentals’ stunning rental pieces brought the Mountain West charm, and the linens from Theoni and unique La Catres candles were such a fun touch. But possibly one of our favorite details was the leather menu pockets with a blind embossed steer head that had the dinner menus inserted inside. It was the perfect tie-in to the tablescape to give us a subtle reminder we were out in Wyoming.

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The wedding cake was not an afterthought. We wanted to maintain the unique nature of the design throughout the cake, incorporating gold pattern elements and these ball hints, which made this a perfect cake for the event.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]When you are friends with a famous country musician, it sure is a special treat to have them perform at your wedding. Charles Godwin amazed guests and staff alike with his beautiful rendition of ‘Walk the Line’ for the ceremony. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

As the bride is a pilot and the wedding was a destination wedding, Palette Events created a custom ivory leather-backed seating chart with golden plane bottle openers. ‘Love is in the Air’ was the slogan for it, and it was a great entrance piece to the tent.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Bourne Paper Co. knocked it out of the park with all of the stationery details. From the blind embossed leather menu sleeves, custom cocktail napkins, and monogrammed drink stirrers, to look. Like a cattle branding log and lovely leather-branded bar menus, the stationery details were some of our favorite design elements of this wedding.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

We can’t forget the custom hat branding station for the Welcome Party! Our friends at Beaver Creek Hats & Leather crafted a truly special hat branding station as a gift to all the guests from the couple. Guests got to select their hat color of choice, get it fitted, and select their desired branding or embellishments as a keepsake and forever memory of their time in Jackson Hole. If you ever find yourself in Jackson Hole, heading over to Beaver Creek Hats & Leather right in downtown Jackson is a must!

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Diamond Cross Ranch

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A Joyful Hindu Wedding Weekend Filled with Color, Tradition, and a Backyard Dream

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Rose, blush, maroon, gold[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Anjali and Trit celebrated their marriage with a traditional Hindu wedding, kicking off the weekend with a Mehndi that featured a colorful bangle bar and tasty Tex-Mex bites. The next day, the pair hosted their Sangeet in the bride’s parents’ backyard, where she had always dreamed of tying the knot. The natural surroundings inspired an elegant garden dinner party, with deep red and pink hues capturing the fall season and balancing the lighter design style of their daytime wedding the following day.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

After connecting on a dating app, Anjali and Trit found they had much in common — not just their shared love for cookies! It turned out they attended the same medical school a few years apart, sharing moments in passing without even realizing it. Dinner turned into drinks, which eventually led to a shared lease. While living together, Anjali decided to move to New York City to pursue her residency, while Trit was offered an exciting job opportunity in the Bay Area. But before introducing a long-distance component to their relationship, Trit knew he had to make it official. On a morning walk with their favorite coffee in hand, he stopped in front of a wall of magnificent rose bushes to propose to Anjali. Still long distance, the pair has crossed the country countless times and even unlocked premier status with United! The pair were legally wed on Zoom in 2021, so this celebration was a chance to cement their union with their closest friends and family.

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The wedding day started with a lavish breakfast buffet before convening for a festive Baraat. With so much family visiting from India, food was a hallmark of the weekend — a Michelin-star caterer that specializes in innovative Indian food wowed their guests with both flavor and presentation!

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]For the Sangeet, Anjali picked green print tablecloths that resembled Mughal motifs to pair with pink and red floral centerpieces, blush-toned glassware, white scalloped china, and rose-colored custom menus.

Wedding reception decor replaced the moody colors of the previous day with softer tones of pink and lavender against all-white embroidered linens. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Anjali & Trit’s Sangeet was an unforgettable night of drinks, dancing, and speeches — and a beautiful sheet cake adorned with fruits and flowers!

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Sunset Vows and Seaside Splendor at Villa Durazzo’s 17th-Century Baroque Estate

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]white and green[/field]
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Glitz & Glam in the Italian Riviera.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]There’s something undeniably magical about a wedding on the Italian Riviera—the golden glow of the Mediterranean sun, the timeless elegance of historic villas, and the effortless glamour that defines Italy’s most exclusive celebrations. And when love takes center stage in a venue as enchanting as Villa Durazzo in Santa Margherita Ligure, the result is nothing short of cinematic perfection.[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Food was an essential highlight for our couple, who traveled from London to celebrate their love. From the aperitif onwards, guests were treated to an exquisite culinary experience featuring the finest Italian and Ligurian specialties. Every dish was a tribute to the region’s rich flavors, allowing everyone to savor the authentic delicacies of this breathtaking corner of Italy.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

White and green flowers, timeless and elegant, adorned every corner of the villa, creating a perfect harmony of beauty and sophistication.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]A beautiful cake was elegantly cut by the villa’s famous well, marking the start of a spectacular celebration, illuminated by breathtaking fireworks that set the tone for an unforgettable night.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

A Love Story in an Iconic Setting Perched above the Riviera coastline, Villa Durazzo is a masterpiece of 17th-century baroque beauty, where intricate frescoes, marble staircases, and lush Italian gardens provide a dreamlike setting for an unforgettable wedding. Against this opulent backdrop, our couple exchanged vows in a deeply emotional ceremony, surrounded by family and friends, the soft sea breeze, and the golden light of sunset reflecting off the Ligurian waters.

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Glitz, Glam, and Unforgettable Moments. From the chic, tailored attire to the sparkling under crystal chandeliers, every detail of this wedding exuded sophistication. The ceremony aisle was lined with lush floral arrangements, creating a modern yet timeless aesthetic, as the couple walked hand in hand toward their forever. A Celebration of Love As day turned into evening, the reception unfolded in the villa’s grand salon. Guests sipped on a signature Italian cocktail and danced the night away under the stars.

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Carolina Serafini Photography

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European Charm Meets Indian Glamour at This 150-Year-Old Abbey Wedding

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Pink, gold, white[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

When Kate purchased, renovated, and designed the historic St. James 1868 church, she was thinking like a businesswoman, not a bride-to-be. But when Kate and Neil started planning their wedding, there was never a doubt about where they would tie the knot. Inspired by her venue’s European charm and Neil’s Indian heritage, Kate played with color and texture to capture the old-world feel of the church’s stunning architecture. Between the sweet treats, six signature drinks, a fashion sketcher, a caricature artist, and a portrait studio, the newlyweds gave their guests an immersive and unforgettable experience that whisked them away to old Europe.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Kate was months away from opening her new wedding venue when she met Neil, a fellow entrepreneur who swept her off her feet. However, neither could have anticipated a global pandemic complicating both their businesses and their dating life. Instead of flirty texts and dinner dates, the pair was catapulted into a period of stress and uncertainty, sticking together every step of the way. As Kate’s venue stayed empty for months, Neil stood by her side and comforted her with late-night walks and heartfelt conversations. Though difficult at the time, their experience solidified their love and trust in each other for good. Several years later, Kate planned a couple’s trip to Tulum with her closest friends, unaware they had schemed a surprise beach proposal with Neil!

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Kate wore a cream lehenga with pink and teal accents to match Neil’s sherwani. [/field]
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In the lobby, Kate surprised her husband by transforming the space into a French café and dessert bar complete with bistro music, espresso martinis, a gelato bar, and plenty of Indian and pâtisserie desserts!

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The couple wed in a Hindu ceremony under a mandap of pink blooms to match their floral garlands. Following the ceremony, guests were treated to an Indian luncheon with live food stations before returning to the Abbey for a Western ceremony. This time, Kate wore a blush mermaid dress while Neil sported a black tux. In the reception hall, three styles of tables mixed pops of teal velvet with neutral satin linens. They all featured black scalloped chargers, mismatched rose china, vintage flatware, and custom menu cards inspired by the 15th-century carved monastery woodwork in the venue.[/field]
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Kate and Neil served a tower of delicate pink and white macarons at their reception!

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]To start the day, the couple had the road closed for a traditional Baraat. In a parade led by a DJ and live drummer, Neil arrived in a vintage Excalibur amidst colored smoke bombs.[/field]
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These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
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BBJ La Tavola

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Petit Bouquet

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A Vintage-Inspired Garden Wedding with Pastel Hues and a Bunny Named Dewey

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Sage, ballet pink, and olive[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The design vision for this sweet wedding was a vintage, elevated event that kept the overall atmosphere light and fun. They wanted to feature pastels and plenty of spring motifs in an elegant late-summer way, so they chose muted pink with deep green accents. They both adore their pet bunny, Dewey, and wanted to include him in the wedding in some fun ways, like the bunny stamps and custom cake toppers!

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Angela decided on a sweet and feminine silhouette with the square-neck ‘Abigail’ dress from Willowby by Watters. With its subtle pink undertones and floral embellishments, this gown was the perfect feminine complement to the day.

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The bridesmaids wore sage-colored satin dresses by Birdy Grey. The soft, warm green was chosen to round out the vintage pastel vibes in a light, summery way.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The groomsmen all wore outfits from The Black Tux.[/field]
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At cocktail hour, the couple opted for a classic trio of beverage options: Aperol Spritz, Boulevardier, and a Sprig & Soda mocktail, which included a fun little disco-ball stir stick to foreshadow the good times yet to come. To continue the sophisticated options through dinner, Mintahoe Catering worked with the parents of the bride to craft some beautiful flavor profiles, including items such as blackberry peppercorn salad dressing and grilled Chilean sea bass with ginger glaze and saffron rice. The real star of the show, though, was the final meal of the night. The evening closed out with a surprise treat for late-night guests in the form of a Chicago dog buffet with tater tots on the side!

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]For this spring-meets-late-summer wedding, there was a lot of extra love and intentionality given to the floral design. The couple chose to work with Cosmos Floral, a fine art floral studio focusing on sustainable design and baroque style. Each foam-free arrangement was crafted with local blooms to complement the refined atmosphere of the mansion venue, while still showcasing the couple’s fun and relaxed personalities. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Buttercream Wedding Cakes crafted a lovely and classic three-tier cutting cake for the couple, with ivory ruffled piping on top of an ivory frosting base. On top of this cake were two custom-made bunny cake toppers

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

The ceremony took place at the Basilica of Saint Mary in Minneapolis, in a historic building with gorgeous stained glass windows and echoing music from the Birchwood String Quartet. Given that they had planned such a fun and relaxed reception, the couple decided on a refined, traditional approach to the ceremony.

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When asked about why they chose Van Dusen Mansion for getting ready and the reception venue, Angela and Chris mentioned numerous times that they loved all of the unique spaces, artistic elements, and fun little details throughout the space. In order to reflect that specific love, several of the mansion’s various sculptures were combined with the wedding details to make a set of sculptural detail photographs.

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A Seaside Soirée Wrapped in Florals, Soft Blush, and Effortless Luxury

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

The color palette was an elegant and timeless mix of whites, ivories, and neutrals with hints of very pale blush and an abundance of greenery. This palette was light, airy, and luxurious, and created the feeling of being in a summer garden, even while indoors for the reception.

The couple wanted a romantic garden wedding, so their guests should feel as if they had been transported to a vacation and dinner at a luxury hotel. This vision was executed by using a soft, elegant color palette, an absolute profusion of florals and greenery everywhere from tabletops to hanging from the ceilings, and focusing on every detail along the way to transform the space and create that feeling of being somewhere special. From matching the invitation suite to the lace on the bride’s gown, to custom wraps on the water bottles for the shuttle ride back to guest hotels, no detail was overlooked or too small.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Chris proposed to Maggie on a trip to Napa Valley at the beautiful Auberge du Soleil resort, with a photographer hiding nearby to capture the special moment. Fun fact: their wedding videographer also shot all the content for the resort where they got engaged, and neither the planner nor the couple knew this until after he had been hired for the wedding!

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]The bride wore a timelessly elegant a-line strapless lace gown by Monique L’Huillier, from La Jeune Mariee in Columbus, Ohio. The lace pattern on the gown provided inspiration for details throughout the wedding. The invitation suite included handmade cotton paper with imprints of the lace from Maggie’s gown, and the same lace pattern was repeated on the bar fronts and dance floor.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The bridesmaids wore ivory satin cowl neck dresses from Shona Joy.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The groom’s and groomsmen’s apparel is from Kilgore Trout, a longtime staple of luxury menswear in the Cleveland, Ohio, area. [/field]
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After Maggie said “yes” at their engagement in Napa Valley, the happy couple popped a bottle of Veuve Clicquot and toasted to their future happiness. At their wedding, the newly married couple served Veuve Clicquot to guests to allow them to share in the same special toast.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The goal was for the wedding to feel like a light and airy romantic garden, which necessitated that every detail be considered in the transformation of the space. The Club at Hillbrook is a 50-acre, 40-room Tudor mansion in Chagrin Falls, Ohio, built in 1919. The space is full of dark walnut woodwork and original leaded glass windows that give it a timeless and traditional, yet somewhat dark and rustic look. To completely convert the historic home into a light, garden-like indoor space required a total transformation. With the generous use of draping, lighting, and florals, the planning team was able to conceal everything, even ceiling fans! To execute the transformation of the space, florals and greenery covered nearly every surface of the reception space, from tabletops to the ceiling. The stunning reception florals were meant to invoke the feeling of being transported to an indoor garden. White, ivory, and pale pink flowers on the tabletops, cake, and bridal bouquet were light and romantic touches. Guests ate and danced beneath of canopy of greenery that nearly completely disguised the ceiling, making it feel as if they were outdoors beneath flowering trees. The planning team brought in every single element, even down to the bread baskets, so that every piece of decor would perfectly coordinate. Lounge areas, dining chairs, shelving, flatware, tabletop glassware, plates, bar glassware, linens, vintage cut crystal coupe glasses for the Veuve Clicquot toast, even guest towels in the restrooms — no detail was left unconsidered.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The wedding cake was a statement piece created by Cenza. The cake was surrounded by sugar flowers and real florals seamlessly combined into each other. Even up close, you couldn’t tell where the sugar flowers stopped and the real ones began!

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

Music played a special part in this wedding. During the ceremony, a string quartet from Opus16 played “XO” by John Mayer for the bridal party processional and “Canon in D” for the bride’s walk down the aisle. The string quartet then played “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves for the recessional. At the reception, the newly married couple were announced and entered the room to a performance of Calvin Harris’s “By Your Side” by the band, The Headliners. The romantic first dance was accompanied by the song “From the Ground Up” by Dan + Shay, also performed live by The Headliners. A truly special moment took place when Maggie and her dad danced with choreography to a custom mashup that the band had learned just for them!

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

The Kirkbrides Wedding Planning team planned the entire weekend. This included a rehearsal dinner and welcome party at Cru Uncorked, the wedding day at The Club at Hillbrook, and Sunday brunch at The Last Page. Each event was designed to be memorable and special for the bride and groom and their guests.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

As is so often the case in the Midwest, a thunderstorm decided to be an uninvited wedding guest. All of the weather apps were calling for rain to stop right at what would be the end of the ceremony. The couple desperately wanted to get married outside and decided they were ok with pushing the ceremony back a bit to do so. The only problem was that guests were arriving at the same time as always planned, with a torrential downpour happening outside, and several ceremony items that could NOT get wet. However, if everyone waited to set the outdoor decor until it stopped raining, the ceremony would have been on a several-hour delay instead of just 30 minutes. Every single vendor worked as a team to pull off magic. The planning team from Kirkbrides worked with staff at Hillbrook to adjust the entire timeline with the kitchen, and to have staff ready to do a mini “cocktail hour” as guests arrived while we waited for the rain to let up. White Glove Rentals had all hands on deck to set the (not weatherproof) ceremony chairs. In order to have them set in time for the ceremony, they had one team member set a chair and another follow with a tarp to protect the chairs. It was truly a sight to see, and right when the rain stopped and we were comfortable letting guests head to the ceremony, the planning team removed a bunch of wet tarps and hid them in the woods! The photographers, Anya and Caleb, never broke a sweat while scouting new covered locations for photos in the rain and shifting the timeline to shoot all of the details in order to be able to capture the untouched ceremony in about two seconds flat as guests were approaching behind them — so talented! Anya, our LA girl, is still baffled by the intensity around shifting plans for a Midwest thunderstorm!! The florals team from HeatherLily set up an 8-foot floral arch and floral aisle pieces for hours in the pouring rain. The string quartet from Opus216 brought throw rugs from their own homes to protect the sound system from the wet grass, while team members from Hillbrook and Kirkbrides pulled umbrellas from the pool area to protect the sound equipment and instruments from the rain. AND since the umbrellas didn’t match the event aesthetic, the video team even edited out the umbrella in overhead shots of the ceremony! While all of this was happening, the wedding planner from Kirkbrides was back and forth, reassuring the loveliest, most patient couple that everything would be perfect, and we would get them married outside. She even did her best to conceal that she was soaking wet with shoes filled with mud to not freak anyone out! Of course, everything came together, due entirely to the hard work and teamwork of a large group of dedicated vendors, a patient couple, and a supportive bridal party.

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For membership information, click here

Sugared Fig Paperie

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A Comfortable Yet Elegant Celebration Awash in Summertime Color

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Green (moss, sage tones) and blush pink[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The couple wanted something that felt elegant but very comfortable and approachable! Romantic, classic, and neutrals was the main vibe for their wedding design.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

From the bride herself: “Bobby and I have been dating since the first semester of freshman year when we met at the University of Richmond! We’ve been together ever since Bobby was traveling to Richmond for work back in February 2023, and I decided to go with him to see friends who live in the area, and visit the place we called home for 4 years in college! On the Saturday we were there, Bobby told me we had to go to lunch with someone he worked with who was based in Richmond (which was his way of telling me to change out of my leggings and sweatshirt and put on something a little nicer, LOL). He told me we were going to this restaurant that was next to campus, so we should take a walk around campus beforehand, just to see it. We pulled onto campus and walked around a little bit, he said Let me show you where I first laid eyes on you…I was like..is he about to propose? He showed me and we kept walking, so I thought, “OK, it’s not happening this trip..” – It was a great way to throw me off haha! We kept walking and we decided to walk around the campus lake, which is something that we would do often back in college. At one point in our walk, he pulled me aside, took both hands, and….he proposed :) One of my best friends from college jumped out of the bushes, taking photos right after I said yes. It was amazing! We kept walking around the lake, I kept begging Bobby and my friend to let me FaceTime my family, and Bobby kept saying we can call them later, let’s just pop this bottle of champagne first, then call them! We are taking a few more pictures and about to pop champagne, and my friend goes, Actually, turn around – I turn around, and my family and Bobby’s family are walking over a little bridge toward us. I immediately started crying, happier than can be. We celebrated the rest of the day, and funny enough, were confirmed to be married at the River Course the very next day. Bobby knew it was always my dream to get married at the River Course, so my parents got us on the wait list before he even proposed! While my parents were pulling onto campus to surprise me, my dad got the call from River that we were off the wait list! My dad was like uhh…he’s proposing this very second, can we have 24 more hours! So at brunch the next day, Bobby and I talked about it, and we were like, we know this is what we want. Sure, we just got engaged, but let’s pick our wedding venue within 24 hours of being engaged, why not? It was meant to be”

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

A Modern Classic: The Louvienne Malea Gown Sleek, sophisticated, and effortlessly chic, the Malea gown by Louvienne—from Lovely Bride—is a vision of modern romance. Featuring a structured strapless bodice with asymmetrical pleating, this gown strikes the perfect balance between refined minimalism and timeless elegance. The full A-line skirt adds a soft sense of grandeur, while a front slit offers a contemporary twist, revealing a hint of movement (and the perfect opportunity to showcase a stylish ‘something blue’!). Designed for the bride who appreciates understated luxury, Malea is a statement in itself—graceful, modern, and unforgettable.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

Soft Sage Elegance: The Perfect Bridesmaid Palette Bringing a refined yet natural elegance to the day, these soft sage bridesmaid dresses created a beautifully cohesive look against the lush Southern backdrop. A mix of halter necklines and delicate draping added depth and movement, giving each dress a touch of individuality while maintaining a seamless aesthetic. The muted green hue complemented the fresh white florals, offering an effortlessly organic palette that felt both timeless and modern. Paired with romantic updos and natural makeup, this bridal party exuded an air of understated sophistication—proof that neutral tones can still make a statement.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

The groom and groomsmen went with classic black tuxes.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]From a fresh oyster bar at cocktail hour to late-night espresso martinis, the couple curated a menu that blended elevated indulgence with local Lowcountry flavors.

Guests were welcomed with an interactive oyster-shucking station, where freshly harvested oysters were served on ice—a nod to the coastal setting and the couple’s love for seafood. Paired with crisp white wine and classic champagne toasts, it set the perfect tone for an effortlessly chic celebration.

The reception dinner featured a carefully crafted seasonal menu, while personalized cocktail napkins and signature drinks added a bespoke touch to the experience. As the night went on, espresso martinis were passed on the dance floor, a fun late-night pick-me-up that kept the celebration going.

For dessert, the couple opted for a textured coconut cake, a deliciously unique take on tradition that felt warm, inviting, and perfectly suited for the setting.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Every element of the floral design and décor was curated to blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of the Lowcountry while bringing a touch of refined elegance. The florals featured lush, garden-style arrangements in a palette of moss and sage greens, soft blush pinks, and timeless neutrals, complemented by airy greenery for a look that felt both romantic and effortless. The reception space exuded warmth with sage green linens, rattan-backed chairs, and soft candlelight, creating a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. Guests found their seats with a hand-illustrated watercolor escort display, showcasing local wildlife and natural elements—a personal nod to the surrounding landscape. Gold flatware and vintage-inspired china added a timeless touch to the tablescape, while towering glass hurricanes and flickering candlelight brought an intimate glow to the celebration. From the textured linens to the coastal-inspired details like the golden heron statue and the organic floral arrangements, every piece was carefully chosen to reflect the couple’s love for nature and understated luxury.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Coconut cake from Cassique Golf Club in Kiawah! This is slightly embarassing but I can’t not share :) – I’ve never had cake before, I’m not a bread lover (I know, so strange – it’s not an allergy, just a really weird food texture thing for me, I wrote my college essay about it because it’s so weird LOL), but I couldn’t not eat my wedding cake! I have a coconut obsession so I thought, having a coconut flavored cake would help me get it down (now go back and look at pictures of Bobby and my bridesmaids freaking out that I’m eating it, now you understand why they were so ecstatic haha!!). My family loves the coconut cake at Cassique, so that’s how we decided to use that as our wedding cake!!

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

My dad and I processed up the aisle to “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” by Elton John. Growing up, The Lion King was my absolute favorite movie. I would watch it all the time, and this song is a prominent one in the movie, so it was nice to be able to tie in a little bit of childhood into the wedding! Another special song was the father/daughter first dance – “It Won’t Be Like This For Long” by Darius Rucker – my family are huge Darius Rucker fans (especially my Dad and I), we’ve seen him in concert a handful of times, I’ve written him a letter before and he responded to me (or at least someone on his PR team did, but I don’t care!!!), and I recently met him at a book signing a few months ago, where I told him I was getting married in Kiawah (a place Darius frequents!) and “It Won’t Be Like This For Long” was going to the song I danced to with my dad at my wedding. Darius responded, “Wow, thank you so much for making me a part of your special day.” Bobby is also a HUGE Darius fan, which is why we had to have “Wagon Wheel” be our last song of the night at our reception – and Queen City Band crushed it! They even invited Bobby and me up on stage to sing it!! I felt like a rockstar.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Postcard guest book!! I’ve collected postcards since the 5th grade – families and friends always make sure to collect them wherever they travel and send them to me, and I, of course, buy postcards at every new place I visit!! Or at restaurants, if they give you a postcard with your bill, I make everyone at the table sign it, and I keep it. Anyway, A Charleston Bride and Studio R had the fabulous idea of tying this into our guestbook – so Studio R created the most beautiful, personalized postcards for us that guests would sign with a message to the newlyweds as our guest book!

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Know I mentioned above, but 167 Raw is my favorite place in the entire world to get oysters – I think they’re not only the best, but the shuckers are the best shuckers in the world. River had never had 167 Raw do oysters there before, but my family shares in my obsession with 167 Raw, so we were all like, we need to do this! It may have been their first time at River, but I can guarantee it won’t be their last – they were such a hit!!

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]Every detail of the wedding design was carefully chosen to celebrate the natural beauty of the island, seamlessly blending refined elegance with the effortless charm of the coastal landscape. The couple leaned into the surroundings, incorporating hand-painted watercolor escort cards featuring native flora and fauna—herons, live oaks, and seagrass—to reflect the island’s rich ecosystem.

Muted sage greens and soft neutrals mirrored the marsh grasses and shifting tides, while woven rattan chairs and organic floral arrangements brought an airy, natural warmth to the reception space. The couple’s vision wasn’t just about creating a beautiful setting—it was about immersing their guests in the essence of the island, ensuring that every moment felt connected to the place they love.[/field]
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For membership information, click here

Petit Bouquet

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Coastal Color Story – A Vibrant Oceanfront Wedding Bursting with Summertime Blooms

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

The bride told planner and designer Kayla to “have at it!” as long as the theme remained coastal. The freedom that came with it allowed Kayla to bring together a stunning tapestry of summertime florals with bright, vibrant colors. From oranges to pinks, to yellows, to purples, to reds, to just about everything in between, the flowers laid the base for a breathtaking, colorful, elegant wedding.

The ceremony took place overlooking the ocean, with the sailcloth reception tent also in view. The ceremony was minimal yet impactful, featuring simple wooden chairs and stunning floral arrangements that adorned the aisle, along with a gorgeous, grounded arch with hundreds of flowers arranged in an ombre color scheme. The reception boasted customized pergolas at the entrance with sitting vignettes available for enjoying throughout the reception.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

The bride’s drop-waist gown was simple yet stunning, featuring a cape veil that was a dream, as well as tulle sleeves that added a special touch to the overall look.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The bridesmaids were able to choose their dresses — as long as they were colorful, they fit the bill! The dresses coordinated beautifully and fit each bridesmaid’s personality so well (and isn’t that the beauty of getting to choose your dress as a wedding party member?).

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The groom and groomsmen wore white dinner jackets with black bow ties, the perfect choice for a Lowcountry golf course wedding.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

The wedding featured signature cocktails, including ranch water and a transfusion, a refreshing drink made with vodka, ginger ale, lime juice, and a splash of grape juice. Cocktail hour included passed hors d’Oeuvres, and the reception featured stations with prepared plates of short rib, crab cake, and — in true Charleston fashion — chicken and waffles.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Lindsay and Chris’s wedding was adorned from top to bottom with summertime goodness, from the floral arrangements to the custom-painted bar and everything in between. The sailcloth tent’s had a grand entrance with custom-made pergolas, beautiful wicker furniture, and a runway of tropical, lush plants. The reception tables were filled with ranunculus, poppies, and roses of every bright and bold color, combined with citrus fruits and figs. The space also included lantern lights also custom custom-painted to match the bar and pergolas.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The wedding cake was a lovely, white, striped number, outfitted with florals that matched the wedding design.

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

The wedding guests were treated to a cocktail hour putting contest, where the winner was announced during the reception.

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

Alex Thornton

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Petit Bouquet

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A Playful, Floral-Filled Carmel Valley Ranch Wedding That Celebrated Local Roots

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Pink, orange, yellow, and green. [/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Bride, Lauren, wanted our wedding to embody our vibrant, fun, and playful love, creating a day that truly reflected who we are together.

[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]Cory proposed on the beach in front of the bride’s house. He asked her to take the dog for a walk with him before they headed out for the afternoon. At the end of their walk, he got down on one knee and popped the question. Their families, secretly hiding nearby, came down to the beach to celebrate with a champagne toast. When they returned to the house, Cory had organized a surprise party with their closest family and friends, followed by a sunset sail on the bay. It was truly a magical day.[/field]
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The bride found her wedding gown at Sarah Seven’s charming boutique in Laurel Heights, San Francisco. She was looking for something timeless, elegant, and simple, and the Carol dress was exactly what she had envisioned. With amazing customizations by Janet Ghilarducci, Janet truly brought the dress to life on her.

[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bride gave her bridesmaids a color range to choose from for their dresses, wanting each of them to select something they loved and felt their best in for the day. They truly captured her vision perfectly![/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

Cory purchased his suit from Hugo Boss, while the groomsmen chose theirs from J.Crew. On the morning of the wedding, he gifted each groomsman a tie to match the colors of the bridesmaid they would be walking down the aisle with.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Food and drinks were provided in-house by Carmel Valley Ranch. After an incredible tasting experience, the chef shared that anything not harvested from the venue’s organic garden would be sourced locally and sustainably, ensuring every ingredient used on the wedding day was fresh and thoughtfully chosen.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The florals were beyond what the bride could have ever dreamed of. Courtney, the owner of Quaintrelle Farms, brought the vision to life with fresh fruit and charming, whimsical displays for the tablescapes, custom floral crowns and collars for the couple’s dog and the farm animals, stunning bouquets for the bride and her bridesmaids, and all the thoughtful details in between. Supporting local businesses was incredibly important to the bride, and Courtney’s sustainable mission for her floral business perfectly aligned with what she was looking for.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The wedding cake was a delicious cheesecake made in-house at Carmel Valley Ranch, and the florist beautifully decorated it with edible pressed flowers.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

The ceremony was officiated by one of the bride and groom’s dearest lifelong friends, who beautifully captured their love and years of friendship. She spoke of the special people who seemed to guide them on their journey to finding each other. One of the bride’s aunts read a heartfelt poem, “Love” by Roy Croft, which felt deeply personal to their love story. To seal their love on the dance floor, the couple performed a choreographed dance to “I Think I’m in Love with You” by Chris Stapleton.

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]The bride and groom weren’t ready to let the night end when the dance floor closed, so they hosted an after-party in a hotel ballroom. It had everything from a silent disco, beer pong, and plenty of late-night snacks. Of course, the bride had to break out her pajamas to keep dancing the night away in comfort! They were told the silent disco was many guests’ favorite part of the night!
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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

The bride and groom adore their Bernedoodle, Pickles, and they knew they had to include him in their wedding! He made a special appearance at the ceremony, walking down the aisle with one of the bridesmaids. To honor him even more, they set up a self-serve “pickle bar” at the cocktail hour, where guests could indulge in a variety of pickles—perfectly fitting for their big Pickles!

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Paulina Perrucci

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Adriana Michele Photography

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A Midnight Garden Wedding Inspired by Vintage French Chateaus

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

The color palette features enchanting golds, regal emeralds, varying shades of pink, lavender, and white.

Drawing inspiration from vintage French chateaus and classic European aesthetics, the decor showcased a fusion of elegance and charm. The color palette features enchanting golds, regal emeralds, varying shades of pink, lavender, and white. They aimed to “transport guests to a midnight European garden, creating an atmosphere of timeless romance and grace”. The dress code was black-tie, while encouraging guests to add personal style. They say, “We wanted everyone to have fun with their choice and encouraged them to take a risk!”. As such, they suggested utilizing rich and elegant hues to complement the ambiance with unique silhouettes and avant-garde accessories.

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(The Grooms’ Looks) To match the timeless elegance of The Drake Hotel, we chose classic black-tie ensembles, wearing custom tuxedos designed by Chicago designer Daniel George. Our tuxedos fit beautifully, and we both opted for vests. We deliberately matched our attire to symbolize our unity in marriage. The inside lining of our jackets featured floral patterns that tied into our wedding décor. Our shoes were Venetian loafers made in Italy. For our rings, we had them custom-made by Buccellati. Jackson’s ring, in rose gold, took six months to make, while mine was the same in white gold. The design was unique to us, and having our rings crafted in Italy felt especially meaningful since we got engaged in Tivoli, Rome. While we opted for a classic look, we collaborated with our bridesmaids on a stunning color palette of magenta, green, lilac, and light pink. Each bridesmaid chose her preferred color and selected a dress she felt comfortable in. The final look was perfect, and we loved that they were able to wear something they truly loved.

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For cocktail hour, we offered a selection of six appetizers, including sushi and bacon-wrapped dates. Instead of the Drake staff handing out red wine, we opted for Grey Goose and soda, knowing that many of our guests (as well as ourselves) prefer vodka sodas when we go out. We even named it Gay Water and featured it on our signature cocktail menu. For our mocktail, we served a refreshing watermelon drink and named it Pink Pony Club after the Chappell Roan song, one of our favorites this year. Dinner was a five-course meal, beginning with butternut squash soup served with curried apple chutney, followed by a watermelon & strawberry salad with an arugula bundle, Bulgarian feta, white balsamic pearls, pecans, and a champagne vinaigrette. Guests then enjoyed an intermezzo of blueberry lemon sorbet before choosing from the following entrées: Filet Mignon – Served with sweet and Kennebec pommes dauphinoise, Comté cheese, broccolini, smoked forest mushrooms, roasted baby vine tomatoes, and chimichurri. Maple Bourbon Roasted Chicken Breast – Served with Corn & Wild Mushroom Strata – Accompanied by fava beans and acorn squash. Wild Mushroom Ravioli – Served with broccolini, sweet mini bell peppers, English peas, and a roasted garlic parmesan cream sauce.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

This was one of our favorite aspects of the wedding. Our vision was to transport guests into a secret midnight garden in France—a setting that felt both grand and intimate, like stepping into another time and place. The Drake already provided a stunning backdrop with its tall ceilings, vintage gold pillars, and beautiful chandeliers. To set the mood, we requested that the overhead lights be turned off and the curtains drawn, leaving only the chandeliers and candlelight to illuminate the space. Our ceremony was surrounded by lush florals and greenery. We were married beneath a breathtaking French-inspired iron gazebo, adorned with cascading greenery and varying shades of pink florals and roses. We chose roses because our favorite song as a couple is La Vie en Rose, which we play every time we visit Paris. As we walked down the aisle, we were surrounded by trees, candles, and floral arrangements, creating the feeling of a magical forest. Our cocktail hour featured a custom escort card display, framed by garden gates draped in flowers, along with a floral backdrop featuring our custom monogram seal. For the reception, we transformed the space into our midnight garden vision. We had a baroque-style monogram seal in the middle of the dance floor. Eight tables featured towering five-foot trees covered in roses and greenery, with hanging candles and vintage candleholders at their base, surrounded by moss. Green tablecloths complemented the theme, while mirrored tables were paired with large candelabras draped in pink flowers, creating an aged, enchanted garden effect. Our head table was adorned with a cascading floral waterfall, and the band performed on a mirrored platform with white draping. Every detail was meticulously planned to create a dreamlike, fairytale setting.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Our wedding cake was a four-tier, seven-layer chocolate cake with mocha chocolate and strawberry filling, provided by The Drake. The cake had vintage-inspired detailing with light gold accents, complementing the classic ambiance of the reception. We envisioned a timeless design, as we planned to cut the cake beneath our floral gazebo.

However, our favorite dessert was the macaron tower, filled with a variety of flavors. It was a perfect nod to our European theme, and as longtime Gossip Girl fans, we couldn’t resist channeling our inner Blair Waldorf with an elegant macaron display.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

It was truly the most perfect day. Every detail was thoughtfully planned over a year, and the love we felt from every single guest made it even more magical. One of the most special moments was replacing traditional religious readings with letters from our parents, sharing their love for us and wisdom for this next chapter of our lives. The letters were read aloud by close friends and family, making it an incredibly personal and heartfelt moment.

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]We also exchanged gifts that represented a piece of ourselves, symbolizing that a part of us would always be with the other. Jackson gifted me a gold rose, symbolizing our love for La Vie en Rose and the idea that his love for me would never wilt. I gave him a music box that plays La Vie en Rose—a tribute to my lifelong love of music and a way to always keep that part of me with him.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

Other unforgettable moments included: Our ABBA cover band at the rehearsal dinner. We love ABBA, and we’ve been following this Chicago-based cover band for a decade. We’ve even become friends with them, so inviting them to our wedding felt extra special. Our guests LOVED it! Jackson’s father’s moving speech. He quoted the Supreme Court ruling that legalized same-sex marriage, reminding everyone of how meaningful and significant this moment truly was. My dance with my mom. We choreographed a medley of Beyoncé songs, which was an absolute hit! Dancing has always been special to us, and it was a moment I will cherish forever. The entire day was filled with love, happiness, and pure joy. It was truly a fairytale, and we wouldn’t change a thing.

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An Elevated Coastal Wedding at The Gasparilla Inn with Grandmillennial Charm

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We used shades of greens, blues, and whites during our wedding day to play off the natural beauty of Boca Grande, the sea, and the Gasparilla Inn.

We credit Nicole Kaney and her team for executing our Elevated Coastal vision and bringing it to life. I would consider myself a “grand-millennial” and love the use of print, pattern, and hints of rattan. We incorporate those in our home, and wanted our wedding to feel like an extension of that.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Ben and I led parallel lives for many years before meeting. We went to undergrad together at Miami of Ohio, and coincidentally lived a block away from each other off campus for years. We would often see each other around campus and admire from afar, but nothing ever came of it! After graduation, we both moved to New York City and coincidentally found apartments in the Lower East Side, also a block apart from each other! We began running into each other through mutual friends and parties, and our relationship blossomed from there. We shared our first kiss at the iconic NYC bar The Red Lion in the heart of Greenwich Village. During COVID, we spent almost an entire year in Florida, so getting married at the Inn was a no-brainer for us. We love the people and atmosphere of the Gulf Coast. It will always hold such a special place in our hearts. As Ben and I spoke about our proposal in the year leading up to it, I had two requirements: to be surprised and for our proposal to be private. It was a Friday night in April, and I was dressed and ready for dinner (or so I thought!) with Ben’s family. Ben was getting ready to call our Uber, but he said before he did that he had a question to ask me, and got down on one knee in our Chicago apartment! I was so surprised and happy, and we spent the rest of the evening celebrating as a couple. When we arrived back home family was there to meet us in our apartment, and we spent the rest of the weekend celebrating.

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My ceremony gown was the Quince by Ines de Santo. Ironically, shortly after I got engaged, my mom saw this dress on Jon Hamm’s wife and sent it to me, remarking about how pretty she thought it was. It ended up being the 3rd dress I tried, by coincidence! I purchased the dress from Ultimate Bride in Chicago’s Gold Coast and had such an amazing experience there from start to finish.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

I wanted all of my bridesmaids to feel like themselves, so they all chose their floor-length dress from Reformation in whichever print, pattern, or solid felt most like them! All of the gowns were in tones of green, blue, and whit, keeping with the elevated coastal theme. My sister was my “something blue” and Maid of Honor, and she wore a solid blue dress from Jenny Yoo. Although every dress silhouette and pattern was different, I loved how cohesive and fun the photos turned out.

[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Ben wore a custom tuxedo with a white dinner jacket made by Antonio Matarazzo. His groomsmen were all dressed in classic black tuxedos.[/field]
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All of our food and drink was done by the incredible culinary team at the Gasparilla Inn! Our food was amazing and played into the coastal vibe as well, with lots of fresh seafood and delicious appetizers. We served a plated sit-down dinner for our guests with a choice of Filet Mignon, Grouper, or Gnocchi. Our salad choice was a fun take on a BLT, called the bacon bibb stack. And our signature cocktail “the Calico” was served all night.. a take on the traditional Aperol Spritz and a nod to our beloved kitty Rachel. We always reminisce on our tasting weekend because it was one of our favorite parts of the planning process. My grandparents joined us, which made it even more special.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Botanica Designs did our day of florals, and also constructed our place card display from scratch! Every detail was perfect, down to my bridal bouquet, which my sister caught at the end of the night. Our tent design was something out of a Nancy Meyers film (which was exactly what I wanted), it felt so elevated and beautiful, all while feeling like a true extension of us as a couple, and fit perfectly with the venue. I loved the batik prints on the linens and the use of rattan throughout the tent. Trout Designs was truly the icing on the cake for our wedding. The custom paper goods and invitation suite Olivia designed were incredible. A few of our favorites were the custom matchbooks with a little crab that noted E+B (our initials) given as guest favors, and a custom sketch of our beloved cat Rachel, which we named our signature cocktail “the Calico” after. Olivia used coastal, fun, and personal details throughout every aspect of the design process, and we couldn’t be happier with the result. We still have a bowl of the custom matchbooks that we use in our home, almost 8 months later! Nicole Kaney and her team sourced linens, lighting, vvotivesand paper goods from so many talented South Florida Vendors.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Our cake was a red velvet cake with buttercream frosting made by the incredible pastry team at the Gasparilla Inn. We decided to save our top-tier for our 1st anniversary, but admittedly ate another slice each on the Monday after we got married at home in our NYC apartment. The rest is tucked away for June 2025!

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

Music was a huge part of the day, and one of the details that I spent the most time on. I made a playlist for every part of the day, down to the morning spent in the bridal suite with my family and friends. Readings: My aunt officiated our wedding and read a beautiful passage called The Beauty of Love. It brought the guests to tears and was one of my favorite parts about our ceremony. Music: Jade Strings played live music during our ceremony, which was important to us. I grew up watching Little Women with my dad and have always loved the classic score by Thomas Neumann, it holds a lot of memories for me. I walked down the aisle to a song called Spring from the Little Women score. It was a light and airy feeling, and sounded beautiful on the violins and cellos. Our first dance was to Elvis’ “Can’t Help Falling In Love”. We took about 6 weeks of lessons leading up to our wedding and had so much fun learning our dance. It made for really fun date nights, and put us at ease for that big moment. All of the guests surrounded us during our first dance, which was a memory we’ll never forget! I danced to Tupelo Honey with my dad for our ourFather-Daughterr dance. Van Morrison is special to both of us, and it was a tribute to my late grandmother whom I was very close. I had basically one requirement for the reception, and that was that I wanted the dance floor packed the entire night. DJ Tommy delivered, from bringing Ben and me out to one of our favorite songs from our time living in Paris (Freed from Desire) to mixing in a combination of disco, house music, rap, country, and slow songs. There was a brief interlude where my brother rolled out a beer pong table, and we played bride vs. groom. Safe to say Ben won! One of my favorite parts of the whole night was our private last dance. After the guests cleared out of the tent, Ben and I danced under the lights to When We Were Young by Adele. It was the most special part of the entire day, I wish I could bottle up that feeling forever! We then exited the tent to go to our afterparty at the Pink Elephant to “Best I Ever Had” by Drake. A nod to Toronto since Ben grew up there.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

My second dress was one of the most special parts of the day for me! I fell in love with a new season Monique L’Huillier floral dress as I was shopping, but couldn’t justify the price for my second look. I found a very similar Monique dress second-hand, and had it transformed from a full-length gown into a 3-piece party dress. The dress had a bubble hem, which was great for pictures and dancing, and a detachable train and sleeves for drama that I wore for sunset photos and our cake cutting. The dress was so unique and something I will keep forever! The alterations team at Fit N Fix Chicago did an incredible job capturing my vision for the dress and executed it seamlessly.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Heirlooms were a big part of our day! My mom gifted me diamonds from her original ring to place in my wedding band, and Ben wore his grandfather’s cufflinks that have been in his family for generations. It was really special for us to be able to honor our family in this way.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

To say it rained on our wedding day would be an understatement :) It poured sideways until I walked down the aisle. Thankfully, Ben and I had just wrapped up photos and our private vows before it started raining. Although rain on your wedding day is the stuff of nightmares for most brides, I actually couldn’t have imagined our day without it now looking back! It made our ceremony that much more moody and romantic. My dad carried an umbrella over me as I walked towards the aisle, and it’s a great memory. Perfectly imperfect as is life! One of my favorite parts about the rain was when my aunt stopped me before I walked down the aisle and told me that rain not only meant good luck on your wedding day, but lots of children in our future. Ben and I are expecting our first child, a son, this April! Maybe she was right after all :)

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For membership information, click here

BBJ La Tavola

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Hunter Ryan Photo

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A Candy-Colored French Garden Meets Los Cabos Wedding at Flora Farms

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Blue, orange, coral, blush, green and yellow[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Sabrina and Andrew wanted a French garden aesthetic mixed with the bright and fun vibes of a Los Cabos celebration, and they nailed it! With lush florals in candy-colored hues like bright pinks and oranges, ocean blue accents, and citrus fruit details, every moment of this gorgeous day reflected a vibrant design perfect for the iconic Flora Farms setting.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Guests dined on the catch of the day at the reception paired with roasted chicken and fresh garden veggies while looking out at the ocean view. [/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Throughout their three-day event in Mexico, the bride was heavily involved in the overall design. She worked closely with Lynette from Lynette Dow Events to bring her vision to life. From lush florals at every turn, menus made by the bride, and intricate tablescape designs, the entire design was vibrant and perfect.

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Along with their stunning wedding cake, they served guests some of their favorite sweet treats, including cheesecake in a jar, coconut chia pudding, and brown butter brownies.

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Entertainment was a big priority for Sabrina & Andrew, they had water drums, stilt walking alebrijes, fire dancers, and an electronic violinist they flew in from New York.

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

Event Planning

Del Cabo Weddings

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Petit Bouquet

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A Sunset Palette Fall Wedding That Blends Trendy Style With Classic Charm

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Peach, coral, blush, pink, orange

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

Emily and Dan wanted a colorful late summer/early fall celebration that reflected the warm summer sunsets they enjoyed together on the lake in NH. Emily and Dan’s interior design style is modern and trendy, yet warm and classic at the same time. We wanted to reflect this into their wedding design as they were going through the home-buying process while also planning a wedding. With a September 14th wedding, we wanted to lean into the early warm fall color palette of oranges and deep corals, while still celebrating the bright florals of late summer with pinks and peaches.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Emily and Dan began working with their planner, The Perfect Match Weddings, about 7 months before they got engaged. They were aware of how quickly things booked up in the wedding industry and knew their love story was going to lead to a wedding. Dan just hadn’t “officially” popped the question yet. Several months into the planning process, Dan filled their wedding planner, Sam, in that he had secured a beautiful solitaire radiant cut diamond on a thin gold band and was planning to pop the question at their favorite place, on the lake in Wolfeboro, NH.

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Emily opted for two wedding dresses. The first was a romantic strapless gown with a sweetheart neckline, high slit and a tulle overlay. The overlay had a beautiful vine/floral design on it. Just before entering the reception, Emily surprised Dan by changing into a second wedding dress. It was a floor-length, fitted lace dress with sparkly embellishments and thin straps. Not only was Dan surprised, but so were the guests when they were announced as Mr. and Mrs.

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Each bridesmaid dress has a different color and pattern within the color scheme of pinks, corals, and peaches. Emily encouraged each bridesmaid to select their dress so they felt comfortable. They received so many compliments from guests and vendors alike throughout the evening.

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The groom and groomsmen all wore beige suits with brown leather shoes. The neutral color complemented the girl’s colorful attire perfectly.

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Emily and Dan’s guests were greeted with passed champagne as they arrived at the ceremony. They enjoyed an assortment of passed and stationery appetizers after the nuptials were complete. Dinner was a plated meal consisting of short rib, butternut squash ravioli, and a maple chicken. For dessert, guests visited the vintage Pours and Petals camper outside the venue for warm apple cider donuts, hot apple cider, and ice cream. We arranged for fresh blueberry pie to be served with vanilla ice cream from the infamous local bakery in Wolfeboro, NH – the Yum Yum Shop. Emily has found memories of summers on the lake with her dad and going to get a slice of their delicious blueberry pie. After some dancing and a few drinks, guests visited the mac and cheese station to build their cheesy late-night creation in personalized Chinese takeout containers that said “you are the mac to my cheese”. These were created by Something Borrowed Event Decor.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Florals were all out blushes, pinks, peach to coral tones to encapsulate the warmth of the late summer season that we never want to go away! The venue was so lush and green outside (an apple orchard), so these florals popped to make a statement for the ceremony (and a touch of pink baby’s breath for a little sparkle pop didn’t hurt either ;) We used loads of local dahlias, as the primary focal flower supported by garden roses, ranunculus, sedum, nerine, and foraged flowering autumn clematis. The mix of all these together created pieces that overflowed with luscious blooms and unexpected texture. The almost golden mango taper candles provided another warm burst of color on the tables. The dinner chairs were a nod to the chairs in Emily and Dan’s new home, and the ribbed glassware was a last-minute add-on that reflected Em + Dan’s modern style. All rentals were provided by PEAK Event Services, and tables were designed by The Perfect Match.

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Instead of a wedding cake, Emily and Dan opted for blueberry pie to be served in honor of Emily’s fond memories of visiting the Yum Yum Shop in Wolfeboro, NH, during summers on the lake with her dad.

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During the ceremony, the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom both shared readings about the meaning of marriage and friendship. Emily and Dan had a unique idea to have their first dance and parent dances on the grass during cocktail hour, surrounded by their family and friends. It was a surprise for guests and a very emotional moment. Following the parent dances, Emily invited her mom to the center of the circle to share a special dance with her. This was a surprise to Emily’s mom. As an only child, the two were very close, and Emily wanted to honor their special relationship with a dance. There was not a dry eye in the house.

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Summer Wedding Essentials For Your Guests To Beat The Heat

There is no denying that summer is a great season for weddings, but sometimes keeping your guests comfortable in rising temperatures can feel like an uphill battle. We’ve got some helpful tips and tricks to help your guests beat the heat!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Oliver Fly Photography

1. Keep it Indoors

No matter where in the world you’re getting married, if it’s summer, chances are it’s going to be hot! The easiest way to ensure that you and your guests are as comfortable as possible is to have your entire wedding indoors in a space that has air conditioning. We know that sounds easy in theory, but depending on the size of your venue, this could get tricky. If you haven’t locked in your venue yet, express your concerns about the heat to your wedding planner and search for a venue that has enough space inside for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. If you already have your venue and it isn’t possible to host the entire wedding indoors, consider doing a “flip”. A “flip” is when your planner and their team transform your ceremony location into a reception space, preferably while your guests are enjoying cocktail hour elsewhere. This technique will ensure that your guests are in a climate-controlled space for the majority of your wedding and only have to brave the elements for a brief window of time.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Katie Lopez Photography

2. Keep them Hydrated

It’s always important to make sure that your guests stay hydrated, but even more so if your wedding is outdoors. Make sure that water is available during every part of your wedding. For the cocktail hour, and the reception, this is easy because your caterer will likely have waitstaff passing or refilling drinks, or guests can help themselves by going to the bar. Don’t forget about the ceremony. Depending on what time your guests arrive at your ceremony location, they may be outdoors for an hour or more by the time cocktail hour rolls around! Consider having a water station near the entrance where guests can help themselves to a small bottle of water or perhaps some fruit infused water on ice. If the thought of having your guests sipping bottles or even glasses of water during your ceremony makes you cringe, ask your caterer or wedding planner if they can arrange to have the waitstaff collect the glasses or bottles fifteen minutes before the ceremony begins–win, win!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Sophie Epton Photography

3. Get Shady

If any portion of your summer wedding is being held outdoors, it’s important to throw shade (in a good way). Some shade may be built into your venue like an awning or an overhang. If your venue does not provide shade naturally – bring it in. Shade comes in many different shapes and sizes depending on your needs. Umbrellas and tents are great coverage options for larger outdoor spaces. To make sure that you have all of your guests covered, you may even consider giving out parasols that can function both as a shield from the sun and a sweet wedding favor!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Luna de Mare Photography

4. Fans

Fans are a great way to keep the air circulating, minimizing the impact of soaring temperatures. If your venue is designed for outdoor ceremonies, like a patio or a courtyard, they may have fans built-in. If not, talk to your wedding planner about renting fans. Electric fans will offer your guests the most airflow, some may have mist capabilities (which is a definite plus). Paper fans are another great way to help your guests stay cool. Some printing companies even offer packages where they print your wedding program onto fans–you gotta love a 2-in-1!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Jose Villa

5. Get a Late Start

Timing is everything when planning a wedding. For summer weddings, we always recommend starting later in the day when things have cooled down a bit. Consider having your ceremony just before sunset and your reception in the evening. The photos of the sun setting while you’re exchanging vows are guaranteed to be swoon-worthy and your guests will be SO grateful!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Rebecca Yale Photography

6. Offer Transportation (even if it’s walking distance)

Standing or sitting outside can be rough if it’s hot, walking is even tougher. Even if your ceremony and your reception are what you would normally consider “walking distance” from one another, we recommend providing transportation for your guests between the venues. It can be something as simple as golf carts or a shuttle. Your guests will be thankful that you spared them the walk.

PHOTOGRAPHY | O’Malley Photographers

7. Tone Down the Dress Code

If you’ve got your heart set on an outdoor summer wedding, opt for a less formal dress code, like dressy casual or just plain casual. This allows your guests to dress comfortably for the weather, rather than having to suit up in the sweltering heat. Encourage the men to wear light fabrics like linen and cotton and the women to wear comfortable sundresses or dressy separates.

PHOTOGRAPHY | George Pahountis

8. Frozen Refreshments

What better way is there to keep your guests cool than serving frozen cocktails? From margaritas and piña coladas to champagne with a popsicle garnish–these frozen treats are sure to help your guests cool off. It’s a good idea to offer one or two non-alcoholic options to make sure that none of your guests feel left out of the frozen festivities.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Amanda K Photography

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Rebecca Yale Photography

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A Garden Party Wedding on Kiawah Island That Was Anything But Ordinary

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

The colors were intended to be light spring colors with a nod to hydrangeas that bloom on Nantucket Island, where the couple said “I do” the year prior. The couple selected a palette of lowly saturated pastels, with varying shades of pinks, greens, yellows, and white taking the main stage.

The couple wanted their wedding to be timeless, and not look so much like a wedding, and more of a very elegant garden dinner party that “just so happens to also be our wedding.” Nicole Sheppard of Wander Event Design was pivotal to turning the bride’s vision into a reality, creating the perfect classic, timeless ceremony. It was important to the couple to steer away from louder and trendier designs to ensure their choices reflected their tastes for many years to come, but also to capture 2024, a very special moment in time.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

In October 2022, Jeff asked Taylor to lunch at Gramercy Tavern on a date in November. As this was a month in advance, and given that “going out to lunch” was not something they ever did in their nearly two years together, Taylor was skeptical. Jeff had arranged for a key to Gramercy Park, a private park in New York City where they met and lived together in the West Village. Jeff proposed on a beautiful sunny day in late November, just before Thanksgiving. It was perfectly private and a wonderful way to mark where their love story began.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]For the welcome party, a semi-vintage midi dress by Rosie Assoulin was the first thing the bride sourced shortly after getting engaged. “I had my eye on this dress for years, and I couldn’t believe how lucky I was to find one, new with tags, in my size!”

The bride wore a custom dress designed by Lela Rose after their Spring 2024 Maison Gown. When trying on dresses, the bride kept coming back to the Katherine Tash backless Bella gown from her wedding planner’s atelier, and decided on the elegant silk dress for her reception dress, staying true to the Black Tie nature of the event. [/field]
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None! The bride and groom chose not to have wedding parties for their wedding, one of the earliest (and easiest!) choices they made for the wedding.

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Guests enjoyed fresh oysters and passed hors d’oeuvres during cocktail hour before transitioning to a plated dinner ‘al fresco’. Beneath the twinkling lights and a perfect sunset, guests were served a first course of fried green tomatoes, a South Carolina staple, with field pea salad. A seasonal tomato gazpacho with chive créme fraiche served as the palate cleanser between the courses. For dinner, there was a selection of pepper-seared filet mignon with roasted potatoes and sautéed spinach or a pan-roasted chicken breast with carrots and wild mushroom risotto. Wedding cake, chocolate-covered strawberries, and macarons were served on the dance floor for dessert. The signature drinks included a mint mojito for the bride and a spicy margarita for the groom. A special espresso martini recipe from a bar in the West Village was brought out around ten o’clock, and was a huge hit to keep the after party going! At the after-party, which took place as a pool party in the bride’s family home, late-night bites were served.

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The bride and groom wanted to keep their florals classic and perfectly understated. Pops of pink and green were scattered throughout, with the centerpieces varying from small stems to large hydrangea installations. Candles and wicker baskets filled with florals adorned tabletops as well as the entrance to the tent, creating a perfect harmony between dinner and dancing. Napkins were custom embroidered with each guest’s name and carefully folded and placed at each seat by Nicole and her team.

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For their wedding cake, the couple selected a simple two-tiered cake topped with flowers from their ceremony. The cake was provided by the Ocean Course and Kiawah Island bakeries.

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The band “Jump Street” from East Coast Entertainment delighted the crowd and kept the party going all night long, even allowing for the father of the brides oldest friends to join the stage for a song or two before the grand finale, “New York, New York” by Frank Sinatra, a nod to the couple’s home.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]The couple agrees that Kiawah Island holds a special place in their hearts, as their families both grew up spending summers in Kiawah since before they were born. “We knew we wanted to tie the knot in a setting that was as intimate as it was meaningful.”
The bride’s family has a summer home on the island, a charming property surrounded by lush greenery, where the sound of waves crashing on the beach is a reminder of the island’s natural beauty. “The backyard was practically designed to hold a wedding ceremony! We couldn’t have asked for a more idyllic setting—lush and peaceful, it was a space that had witnessed countless summer memories, and now, it would be the scene of the most important day of our lives.”[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

The bride originally envisioned a private, intimate ceremony for her wedding, as she struggled with the thought of reading her vows in front of a crowd. So, the couple decided to marry in a quiet, personal ceremony on Nantucket the summer prior, with the bride’s brother officiating the event. His words were so heartfelt and meaningful that they both found themselves moved to tears. The feeling of reading their vows privately inspired them to share their vows aloud during their larger wedding celebration on Kiawah Island the following April. The moment, which had begun in private, blossomed into a public declaration of love that felt even more profound and unforgettable in front of their family and friends.

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After one very humbling dance lesson, the couple chose to do a private last dance instead of a first dance in front of their guests. Once guests were escorted to the shuttles to be taken to the after party, the bride and groom stayed to dance to “At Last” by Etta James alone under the tent. It was the perfect end to a perfect celebration, and they quickly rejoined their guests who had already been brought back to the bride’s house for a pool party and late-night snacks.

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For membership information, click here

Karli Strohschein

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A Modern Black-and-White Wedding with a Southern Twist at The Gadsden House

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Black White Gold

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Mason & Meghan wanted their wedding day to have a modern design with a southern twist, using a classic black and white color palette with gold accents. They loved the feel of the Gadsden House and how it provided a neutral backdrop with a southern feel. Heather with Carolina Occasions went above and beyond making their vision a reality!

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Mason & Meghan got engaged in the fall of 2022. Meghan thought that Mason would propose over the holidays, so she wasn’t expecting the proposal at all! It turns out that Mason had asked for Meghan’s father’s blessing back in March of that year. So, Mason planned for several months to make this a special surprise! The day of the proposal, Mason took Meghan to Table Rock Lake, MO. This is a place they have visited often for its gorgeous views! At sunset, Mason asked someone to take their photo with the beautiful view and the sunset. Before Meghan realized it, Mason was down on one knee! Of course, she said yes! And as a sweet surprise, Mason had all of their family and their closest friends meet them there for dinner to celebrate the occasion!

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Meghan’s ceremony gown was a fit and flare design in satin by Elysee Bridal, who is known for their use of modern silhouettes that contour the shape of the body. The gown was a perfect complement to the modern design of the wedding day itself. Meghan also wore a cathedral-length, pearl-scattered veil, which created a classic southern touch to her modern look! Meghan’s reception dress was a fully beaded design by Justin Alexander!

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Bridesmaids wore long floor floor-length, classic black floor-length gowns with an off-the-shoulder neckline and carried beautiful white bouquets.

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Groomsmen wore classic black tuxes in keeping with the classic black-tie feel of the wedding day.

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The Gadsden House is known for its impeccable in-house catering by King Street Hospitality Group. And when you have a wedding in Charleston, food is always a top priority! Guests were served Hors d’oeuvres during cocktail hour, which included mini-Chicken & Waffles bites…a southern favorite! Then guests were invited to dine al fresco style in the beautiful courtyard. Guests had their choice of beautifully presented plates as they browsed the variety of culinary stations. Signature drinks included the choice of a Spicy Margherita or a Gold Russian.

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Bliss in Bloom was able to play into the bride’s vision by creating a modern bouquet of white orchids and tall white floral centerpieces. The ceremony space was a heavenly floral dream of white florals lining both sides of the aisle as they led to a breathtaking white floral altar.

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The wedding cake was also designed by King Street Hospitality Group, and they kept with the classic and modern theme by doing a classic white cake with white florals.

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During the ceremony, the bride’s uncle David conducted a passage reading.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

One of the sweetest design elements was the envelope seating chart with handwritten notes from the bride and groom to each guest! What an incredible way to warmly welcome friends and family! It was clear that this couple deeply loves all who attended.

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A Three-Day Wedding Celebration That Blended Whimsy, Sophistication, and Tropical Vibes

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Anand and Megha’s 3-day celebration featured distinct palettes for each event. The Welcome Dinner on the cliffs embraced earthy tones of beige, sand, peach, and coffee for a chic Ibiza vibe. The poolside Sangeet showcased playful pastels of blue, pink, salmon, yellow, and lilac. The wedding ceremony focused on timeless white and green, while the reception combined green, silver, white, black, and touches of purple for modern elegance.

Megha envisioned a wedding that was modern, sophisticated, and elegantly fun, with each event capturing a distinct vibe. The Welcome Dinner set the tone with a relaxed, chic Ibiza beach club atmosphere, creating a laid-back yet luxurious start to the weekend. The Sangeet was inspired by A Midsummer Night’s Dream, with a whimsical and romantic ambiance that transported guests into a dreamlike world. The night was filled with energy, lively performances, and vibrant music, creating a perfect blend of tradition and celebration. For the wedding ceremony, the focus was on timeless elegance, with a serene and sophisticated atmosphere that made guests feel as though they were in a lush garden above the ocean. The reception, a tropical disco, was the grand finale. The island’s vibrant energy was infused into the celebration, blending the playful spirit of a disco with the lush tropical setting, creating a fun, high-energy vibe to close the weekend in style.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

In Fall 2021, Anand suggested we spend Christmas in London to meet my large family and extend the trip with a visit to Paris to celebrate my birthday, as he had never been before. A month prior, I jokingly said, “I want to get engaged in Paris,” but he dismissed it, saying we were focused on buying a home, so I ruled out the idea entirely. We arrived in Paris the day before my birthday, staying at the luxurious Crillon Hotel. Anand planned a full day of champagne tasting, the YSL museum, and dinner. During a stroll along the Seine with a view of the Eiffel Tower, I stopped for a photo. As Anand took my picture, a man with a professional camera offered to take a photo of us, saying he was waiting for a shoot nearby. I thought, “What luck!” As we posed, I heard Anand say, “Megha.” Assuming he was distracted, I brushed it off, only to turn and see him on one knee. I was in complete shock as he proposed with Paris as our breathtaking backdrop. Little did I know, Anand had orchestrated the entire moment, including hiring the photographer. We spent the rest of the weekend celebrating in the city of love, making it the most unforgettable start to our journey together. – Megha

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Megha wore an ivory lehenga by Sabyasachi Mukherji for the wedding ceremony, adorned with intricately embroidered floral motifs on the blouse and skirt, paired with a delicate net dupatta that highlighted the lehenga’s elegance. Anand complemented her beautifully in an ivory Sabyasachi sherwani, creating a perfectly coordinated and timeless look for their wedding day.[/field]
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For the Welcome Dinner, we embraced an “Around the World” theme, offering an eclectic mix of flavors to reflect the couple’s international guest list. The menu included a selection of charcuterie, tacos, pastas, and Thai dishes, creating a vibrant and diverse culinary experience. At the Sangeet, guests enjoyed a fusion of Indian street food and Spanish tapas, including freshly made paella, providing the perfect balance of traditional and local flavors. The wedding ceremony was followed by a traditional Gujarati vegetarian lunch, honoring the couple’s cultural roots with authentic, flavorful dishes. For the reception, a lavish Punjabi sit-down meal was served, featuring rich, indulgent dishes that reflected the warmth and hospitality of Punjabi cuisine, bringing a celebratory end to the wedding weekend.

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Each event of Anand and Megha’s wedding was thoughtfully designed to reflect a unique atmosphere, blending their style with the beauty of Tenerife. For the Haldi ceremony, we set the tone with a relaxed, earthy vibe. A light jute rug and floor pillows created a cozy space for the pooja, complemented by large ceramic vases filled with soft pink, green, and white hydrangeas, enhancing the intimate and spiritual setting. The Welcome Dinner embraced a Tulum-style beach party ambiance, with light browns, whites, and beiges used throughout the decor. This laid-back yet elegant color palette, combined with carefully curated music, created a “Welcome to the Island” vibe, setting the perfect tone for the weekend’s events. The Sangeet, inspired by A Midsummer Night’s Dream, took place around the lagoon pool, with a dreamy blue carpet leading the way. The space was filled with tables, sofas, and decor in soft pastel hues, enhancing the whimsical, fairy-tale atmosphere. The sunset that night, painted in pinks, oranges, and purples, seemed to perfectly mirror the enchanting theme, leaving guests marveling at the beauty of it all. For the wedding ceremony, the mandap was a lush green sanctuary, adorned with white flowers, creating the feeling of a garden floating above the ocean. The natural beauty of the setting was enhanced by the carefully selected florals, adding to the serene and timeless atmosphere. The reception was the grand finale, designed as a tropical disco. The combination of disco balls and tropical leaves hanging from the ceiling gave the space a playful, vibrant energy. A black-and-white chequered dance floor took center stage, with the head table featuring tropical leaves emerging from its length. The lighting added the perfect disco effect, making the evening feel like a celebration of both the island’s energy and the couple’s love, perfectly capping off a magical weekend.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Didn’t have a cake! Had a lavish dessert buffet instead.[/field]
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For the Sangeet, Megha wanted to make a grand entrance to a song that had been her favorite since high school—“My Love” by Justin Timberlake. The dhol players crafted a bespoke entrance, seamlessly blending the iconic track with the energetic beats of the dhol, creating an unforgettable moment. As the couple walked down the stairs, sparklers lit up the air, and guests joined in, dancing and singing along to the infectious tune. For the wedding ceremony, Megha chose “Hold This” by Abi Sampa for her aisle walk. The song had held a special place in her heart for years, and it felt like the perfect soundtrack to one of the most meaningful moments of her life.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Dhol Players’ rendition of My Love for the couple’s entrance for Sangeet

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Thank you cards handwritten individually by the couple to all of the guests

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]Song sung by Anand’s mom for the bride at the Sangeet
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For membership information, click here

Petit Bouquet

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A Jewel-Toned Celebration of Love on the Shores of Lake Como at Villa Aura Del Lago

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

The brides chose a color palette inspired by the natural beauty of Lake Como to accentuate the picturesque mountains juxtaposed by the serene lake backdrop of their wedding. The wedding reception had deep velvet green tablecloths to match the verdant mountains, along with deep blue and light blue florals to fade into the waters of Lake Como. The opulent chandeliers that hung above and lit up the couple’s dinner tables were topped with deep red, orange, and light pink florals to capture the stunning sunsets in Lake Como as the sky turned to dusk. Brittany and Amy were inspired by rainbows for equality and wanted to set the hues amongst fall jewel tones for their wedding. This celebration, and everything it stands for, was so important to them!

The brides cast their wedding venue search far and wide, in search of an international destination that featured imposing mountain views, a lakefront setting, and the ability to host the entire wedding outside, complete with dancing under the stars. After choosing Villa Aura del Lago, the couple’s vision was to emphasize the natural beauty of the backdrop of Lake Como, while showcasing the timeless elegance and luxury of Italy. The brides wanted rich, deep colors to capture the passion of their relationship, which was reflected by the luxe fabrics in the velvet lounge sets and tablecloths, gold dinnerware, and their lavish champagne tower. Brittany and Amy knew it was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to have all of their friends and family from all parts of their lives gathered in one spot, in one moment in time, in what they considered to be the most beautiful location in the world. So, their two primary goals were first, to marry the love of their life, and second, to give their friends and family the most memorable experiences. The couple’s wedding planner, Gather Events, helped them achieve both goals in seamless and stunning three-day wedding events. Brittany and Amy love being on the water and wanted to share that with their guests by hosting a welcome party on a private boat to see the sights of Lake Como, complete with a live saxophone player. The couple’s wedding day was centered around enjoying the beauty of the lake by putting their dance floor and band outdoors with a lakefront view, hosting dinner at two long tables to share an intimate meal on the shores of Lake Como, and ending the weekend with a picnic style farewell event complete with outdoor games from Italian Wedding Games. The brides also wanted larger-than-life experiences for them and their guests, such as their ceremony recessional parade with guests waving rainbow pride flags, their bridal portraits on a classic Riva boat by Cantiere Cadenazzi, and ending the night dancing under fireworks.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Brittany and Amy got to enjoy not one, but two beautiful proposals, tailored perfectly for each of them. Amy surprised Brittany with a trip to the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York, where they stayed in the most beautiful lakefront luxury cabin at Lake Placid Lodge. Amy led Brittany to the balcony of the Lodge, which was adorned with gorgeous flowers, lanterns, and candles, and showed her a video she’d been recording throughout their relationship. Little did Brittany know that Amy’s parents and Brittany’s parents (who flew in from Texas) were standing behind them as a surprise. Amy got down on one knee, and in front of a gorgeous fireplace on one side and a sweeping overlook of mountains and a lake on the other side, asked Brittany to marry her. After Brittany said yes with eyes full of tears, they were whisked away on a wooden boat across Lake Placid to explore the picturesque mountainside with trees turning the most stunning fall colors. To give Amy her own unique experience and special moment, Brittany knew she wanted to propose back. She took Amy on a surprise vacation to Hawaii, which Amy only found out her destination upon boarding. The couple went to Lanai and Kauai, where Brittany proposed on the beach of 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay with an intimate picnic setup surrounded by stunning tropical flowers, a violin player, and, of course, another beautiful mountain backdrop. After Brittany said yes with eyes full of tears, the two then whisked away on a wooden boat across Lake Placid to explore the picturesque mountainside with trees turning the most stunning fall colors. The night ended with a beautiful lake view dinner with their families, stargazing, and s’mores. Then!! As if that wasn’t magical enough, Brittany surprised Amy with a proposal set in beautiful Hawaii.

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Brittany wanted an elegant dress to match the style of the Italian villa where they would be getting married, so she chose a fitted gown with long sleeves and a high collar by Wona Concept from Jaxon James Bridal in Los Angeles. Brittany also wanted to capture the high-fashion luxury vibe that was reflected in their wedding decor, so she had customizations made to fit her design style, including making the gown backless. The ornate, fully beaded gown had a chapel train that was accentuated by the bride’s long veil by Toni Federici. Amy wanted to express her authentic self, confidently wearing a sleek white jumpsuit that was both high-fashion and elegant. Brittany and Amy had timeless wavy curls and makeup done by Lydia of Malino Beauty, which added the perfect touch of femininity and class. Brittany had a purse custom-designed, with embroidery illustrating the wedding venue, the backdrop of Lake Como, the couple’s wedding logo, and even a Riva boat, made by VR Storybook. The couple’s appearances wouldn’t have been complete without the months of hard work they put in with their incredible personal trainer, James King III, who they credit with prepping Amy to effortlessly lift Brittany, while in heels, during their first dance. The three-day celebration was filled with outfit changes to match each occasion. For example, before the guests arrived at the welcome boat party, the couple had a photo shoot with their wedding photographer, Andrew Bayd, at the nearby Villa Melzi. Brittany wore a luxurious toile-patterned blue Mestiza Torrero gown, its intricate design reminiscent of the tapestries in Italian villas. Paired with an artistically inspired Cult Gaia clutch in pearlized white and blue, and delicate toile drop earrings, the ensemble exuded timeless elegance and modern sophistication. Amy wore a custom-made powder blue suit to match Brittany’s gown, perfectly complementing the charm of their Lake Como celebration.

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The food and drink were impeccable, as one would expect with authentic Italian food. At cocktail hour, guests were served aperol spritzes and the bride’s signature cocktails with custom drink stirrers in the shape of the Riva boat. An elaborate menu of aperitifs consisted of local cuisine, such as Parmesan lollipops and Sicilian arancini. Dinner included squid ink ravioli, scottona fillet, sea bass, and dessert featured creme brulee, chocolate mousse, and tiramisu.

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Nicole from Fiore Quotidiani was a dream to work with! She wove Brittany and Amy’s jewel-toned rainbow throughout every area of the event in whimsical florals. The focus on color and texture truly complemented these beautiful brides and their chosen location for celebration. Italian busts were adorned with lush, contemporary flowers like ranunculus, adding a touch of sophistication and vibrancy. The couple’s seating chart, a floating sign reading “Olive Our Favorite People,” was a whimsical focal point, with tags displaying guests’ names and table numbers attached to bottles of olive oil. Surrounding the seating chart and bar were clusters of blue baby’s breath, complemented by pops of jewel-toned florals.

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Not only are two proposals better than one, but so are two wedding cakes! The brides had an oversized traditional Italian mille feuille, with custard in between perfectly crispy layers, topped with fresh raspberries and blueberries. It was also important to the brides to honor the LGBTQ+ community and celebrate their pride by having their cake, with its organic natural edges and brushed gold accents, feature rainbow-colored layers inside.

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Brittany and Amy had their hearts set on their favorite Italian band, Daudia, before they even chose their wedding venue. The only problem, Daudia was already booked on their wedding date. During the couple’s year of wedding planning, they searched for an alternate option for the music, but nothing felt right. In what the brides truly believe to be fate, Daudia emailed them just a couple of weeks before their wedding, letting them know that the event they originally booked on the couple’s wedding date was cancelled, so Daudia immediately thought of Brittany and Amy and asked if they could still perform at their wedding. Daudia performed a heartfelt, acoustic version of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley as the bride walked down the aisle. The couple also chose specific songs throughout the night to reflect the feelings they wanted to invoke in those special moments, from “Higher Love (Remix)” by Whitney Houston and Kygo for the brides’ grand entrance and champagne tower, to ending the evening with “A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay for the fireworks display finale. One of Brittany and Amy’s favorite moments was performing their masterfully choreographed first dance to “Wild Love” by James Bay. The brides took dance lessons from Danse L’Amour to perfect the lifts, dips, and spins.

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Pre-wedding Photo Shoot at Grand Hotel Tremezzo: Upon arriving in Italy for their wedding, Brittany and Amy captured the excitement of the moment with a pre-wedding photo shoot at the iconic Grand Hotel Tremezzo. Against the backdrop of the hotel’s signature orange and white umbrellas, the brides wore sleek black ensembles—a dress and a jumpsuit—that stood out beautifully against the vibrant colors of the setting. The shoot was an elegant celebration of the anticipation and joy leading up to their special day. Rainbow Flag Recessional Parade: As the couple exited their wedding ceremony at Villa Aura del Lago, a vibrant parade of wedding guests waving rainbow pride flags filled the grounds with joy and celebration. Walking hand in hand, the brides led the procession through the villa’s stunning gardens, the flags honoring the LGBTQ+ community and the significance of being the first lesbian couple to marry at this iconic Lake Como venue. The parade continued down to the pier, where cheers echoed as the couple stepped onto a classic Riva boat for their grand exit. Surrounded by love, the shimmering lake, and a sea of rainbow colors, it was a moment of pride, unity, and pure magic.

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Grandparents’ Surprise Speech: After dinner, heartfelt speeches followed, with the highlight a surprise Brittany had kept secret—a recorded message from Amy’s grandparents, captured by a videographer Brittany had sent to upstate New York. Amy’s 101-year-old grandfather, not knowing he would pass away just two weeks before the wedding, shared a heartfelt message alongside her grandmother, calling themselves “the world’s proudest grandparents” as they offered their love and blessings. As their voices echoed off the shores of Lake Como, there wasn’t a dry eye in sight. Fireworks: At their wedding planner’s great advice to keep at least one thing a secret from their guests (including their bridal party and parents), the brides surprised all of their wedding guests with a fireworks display to end the night. Brilliant colors danced across the water, illuminating the faces of the newlyweds and their guests. Seeing the guests’ faces light up with pure awe as the sky over Lake Como erupted in a breathtaking display of fireworks made the secret more than worth it, ending the celebration with absolute magic. Welcome Bags: The welcome guest bags were a thoughtful touch, each adorned with a hand-drawn illustration of the venue. Inside each tote, guests found baseball hats featuring the couple’s wedding logo and a Riva boat, along with a lemon-shaped cookie made by Leila’s Delights, delicately decorated with an imprint of the words “Lake Como.” The invitation, designed by their talented planner, Gather Events, was a work of art, featuring a drawing of the villa and a sleek, transparent film overlay.

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BBJ La Tavola

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Petit Bouquet

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A Whimsical Wedding Inspired by Monet’s Water Lilies in The Cotswolds

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

Inspired by Monet’s masterpieces, this wedding palette weaves together tones of purples, serene blues, and delicate pinks, evoking the tranquil beauty of blooming water lilies. Bright yellow accents, like sunlit reflections on a pond, add a joyful contrast, creating an atmosphere of romantic elegance with a dreamy, impressionist charm.

Inspired by Monet’s iconic Water Lilies, this wedding vision is a true homage to impressionist beauty. The bride stuns in a couture blue gown, reminiscent of Monet’s tranquil waters, while an abundance of colorful florals brings the garden to life, capturing the essence of his famous flowers. Every detail, from the artfully styled signage to the lush tablescapes, created an immersive artistic experience. Unique decor elements like a flower-adorned parasol, wicker basket bridesmaid bouquets, and a cake displayed atop a flower-filled plinth add whimsical charm, ensuring the day feels like stepping into an artistic dreamscape.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

On a “family trip” in December 2023, both Jonathan and Moon’s families were travelling together for the first time at the food haven and amazing beaches of Penang, Malaysia. After enjoying a day of amazing food and great company, a nervous Jonathan finally revealed the true purpose of the trip and proposed, and to his relief, Moon accepted. They shared a moment celebrating before a mishap with the ceiling fan sent the balloons swirling, and despite the hiccup, they laughed it off, cherishing the memory through photos.

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The dress is Monet-inspired, reflecting Moon’s love for Impressionist art and her desire to create something truly unique. It draws from the soft, romantic beauty of nature, with elements reminiscent of clouds and fields, all tied together with a dreamy, elegant vibe. The blue and purple ombré design, featuring delicate ruffles, was hand-made and dyed, making it one of a kind. Peonies, one of Moon’s favourite flowers, were hand-sewn onto the neckline and incorporated into her hair, adding a personal and meaningful touch. Every detail of the dress is special, embodying Moon’s individuality and her love for art and nature. Before the big day, Moon also had a special moment with her wedding dress during a portrait shoot in Hong Kong, her home country. Hilary, a photographer Moon had admired, brought this dream to life. Moon had always longed to work with Hilary, so she treated herself to the shoot as a gift from her younger self. Inspired by Monet, the shoot was artistically curated indoors, capturing the softness and romance of the dress while reflecting Moon’s evolution into the woman she is today. The experience was not only a celebration of her dream dress but also a deeply personal expression of her artistic journey and growth.

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The bridesmaid dresses were designed to celebrate individuality while staying true to the Monet theme. Each bridesmaid had the autonomy to choose a dress that they truly loved, allowing their unique personalities to shine. The colour scheme tied everything together, with soft, dreamy hues blending seamlessly into the romantic and artistic atmosphere of the day.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]The food served at Jonathan and Moon’s wedding breakfast was inspired by the flavours of the Cotswolds, bringing back memories of the time they spent together living there. In the evening, they treated their guests to wood-fired pizza and s’mores—both beloved comfort foods that hold a special place in their hearts, often enjoyed together during cosy late-night suppers.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

For Jonathan and Moon’s wedding, we embraced the philosophy of “painting in florals,” creating vibrant, textural works of art with flowers as our medium. Inspired by Monet’s iconic masterpieces, the florals were a symphony of hues and tones, crafted into organic shapes like Moon’s whimsical bouquet and the drape-style floral arch. Bridesmaids carried charming basket bouquets, adding an enchanting element to the day. The pièce de résistance was a floral parasol, designed entirely with fresh blooms, that served as a captivating centerpiece for the welcome table. The tablescapes featured a mesmerizing abundance of candles, complemented by ikebana-inspired floral arrangements, each a delicate composition that embodied the art of “giving life to flowers.” At each place setting, custom Monet-inspired stationery with delicate lilac accents added a personal and artistic touch. Every detail, from the custom signage to the guest cards transformed into individual floral bud vases, was designed to evoke the feelings you experience when viewing a masterpiece: inspired, romantic, joyful, and utterly in awe.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The wedding cake was a stunning extension of Moon’s custom-made gown by Millia London, featuring ombre handmade floral appliqués that mirrored the delicate artistry of her dress. Designed by Sadie May Cakes, the cake incorporated a rich matcha sponge layered with silky matcha buttercream—a nod to Jonathan and Moon’s shared love of fine matcha. Drawing inspiration from Monet’s iconic waterlilies, the cake evoked the dreamy beauty of a lily-filled pond, with its cascading sugar flowers and ombre petals resembling the artist’s brushstrokes. To elevate this masterpiece, Jonathan and Moon had their cake displayed on a flower-filled plinth beneath a breathtaking floral installation, creating a truly enchanting “wow” moment that celebrated their love for art, nature, and each other.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

Just before Moon entered during the ceremony, she surprised Jonathan with a voice recording she had secretly prepared. The recording featured Jonathan and Moon’s favourite song in the background and included such a heartfelt message to Jonathan that it brought him—and most of the guests—to tears. It was one of many special moments created that day.

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Jonathan and Moon’s love for nature and their bond were beautifully shared with their guests through poetic and meaningful touches. 1. Floral Bud Table Escort & Eternal Keepsake With the help of talented vendors, Jonathan and Moon created a dreamy floral bud table escort. Each bloom was marked with a guest’s table name, inspired by places dear to the couple—their homes, engagement, and favourite adventures. Guests were invited to take these blossoms home, carrying a piece of the couple’s cherished memories. The florals were later transformed into a timeless art piece by Madeeco UK, now gracing the couple’s bedroom. Crafted in a gradient of blue, lilac, yellow, and blush tones, the pressed flowers captured the Monet-inspired theme while echoing the bride’s name, Moon. Bathed in sunlight each morning, the artwork is a daily reminder of their love and the beauty of their wedding day. 2. Matcha Ritual: Harmony in Love As devoted matcha lovers, Jonathan and Moon incorporated a special ceremony of pouring and cheering matcha for each other, symbolising balance and care in their marriage. Like the artistry of matcha, this moment reflected their shared commitment to nurturing a relationship full of warmth, joy, and harmony. These touches wove together nature, love, and art, creating a wedding celebration as unique and enduring as their bond.

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While Moon kept her wedding dress a closely guarded secret, she couldn’t resist sharing a special sneak peek with a select few, including the flower girl, Olivia — Jonathan’s two-year-old cousin from Canada. The moment Olivia saw Moon’s dress, her eyes lit up, and she said, “I want to look just like you!” Touched by her enthusiasm and inspired by her dream, Moon made it her mission to bring that vision to life. Over the following months, Moon worked closely with the flower girl and her Mum to look for a matching dress, ensuring it reflected the same elegance and charm as her own. The result was a magical, mini version of Moon’s Monet-inspired gown. With its delicate ruffles and ombré hues of blue, the flower girl’s dress mirrored the romantic beauty of Moon’s, symbolising the natural grace and joy of youth. On the wedding day, the little girl walked down the aisle with confidence, her delight evident to everyone who saw her. It was a moment that celebrated her individuality while also honouring her dream of looking just like Moon. This act of love and creativity added an extra layer of sweetness to the wedding, showcasing Moon’s dedication to inspiring others to embrace what they love and appreciate their beauty. The flower girl’s radiant smile and the pride she wore alongside her dress captured the essence of the day, one filled with love, joy, and dreams brought to life.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

Jonathan has always had a love for Legos, so what better way to bring Legos into the wedding than to have all the guests build a minifigure that represents themselves as part of a Lego guestbook! Every guest was allowed to leave their mark, and the completed collection is something that Jonathan and Moon can treasure for years to come.

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