Real talk, ladies. When wedding planning, Pinterest can be a blessing and a curse, even for the most organized bride, especially when you’re trying to incorporate all of the special things that represent you as a unique couple! But with the right vendor team by your side, you CAN turn your oodles of inspiration into a fairytale-like reality. Take a look at this whimsical garden wedding captured by Aga Jones Photography and filmed by Amari Productions, which incorporates a plant-based and earthy theme with travel influences and a little Peruvian heritage in a way that appears seamless, all thanks to Tres Chic Affairs.

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From the bride… Wedding planning is a crazy process. My biggest advice for couples is to hire a wedding planner early on. Well not just early on, but first. As in before you do anything else! I am pretty organized and creative, plus our venue came with an on site coordinator, so I figured not hiring a wedding planner was a great way to save on the budget. I could not have been more incorrect, and wedding planning quickly went from something I had dreamed of since I was a little girl to a stressful experience. Hiring Molly from Tres Chic Affairs helped to streamline my ideas and turn my vision into reality.

Pinterest was a blessing and a curse. When I hired Molly, I had about 3000 wedding pins. I knew I wanted a whimsical yet natural and organic feel, but I also wanted to incorporate our love of travel, a few family heirlooms, Martin’s Peruvian heritage, our dog, and our plant-based lifestyle. This was no small feat, and I even remember Molly saying at one point, “We might be trying to do too many styles,” but I had faith, and in the end, we were able to weave everything in to create a wedding that suited us as a couple perfectly.

Molly truly took all the stress off of my shoulders and made the process so much more enjoyable, as well as provided valuable vendor connections. We had obvious travel influences such as globes and suitcases and featured a menu with foods from our favorite countries such as coconut curry, bruschetta, gazpacho, and yucca fries. We made our signature drinks travel themed including the “Lima Llama” – a twist on the Moscow Mule – and “City of Love Lavender Champagne” – a nod to our engagement in Paris. We also included signage that we felt reflected our love of travel and each other including one of my favorite quotes, “Hold my hand, and I’ll go anywhere with you.”

We both love nature, and Twin Oaks Garden Estate was like walking into a secret garden hidden in San Diego. We knew we wanted lots of greenery and florals to emphasize the natural feel. I also loved the earthy look of agate for escort cards and table numbers. Martin and I are both plant-based vegans, so using fruit in addition to flowers for the decor made perfect sense and further emphasized the organic, natural feel. Noemi from Trendee Flowers went above and beyond our expectations and created amazing, lush centerpieces and accented the entire venue with beautiful florals.

My second biggest suggestion is to hire a photographer whose style aligns with your wedding vision. Photography is not an area to skimp, budget-wise! Your photos are something you will look back on forever, and you don’t want to wish you had a different photographer. Having a travel and food blog, I am pretty into photography, so I knew that was one of the most important aspects of wedding planning. I also knew I wanted a soft and romantic look and ideally a photographer who shoots with film. I looked at hundreds of photographers and took months to finally choose Aga from Aga Jones Photography. I actually had a ton of anxiety that I wouldn’t ever find someone or that the person I fell in love with would be booked on my wedding day. Aga did an amazing job, and I still get goosebumps when I look through our wedding photos.

For all the brides out there who struggled to find a dress, I feel your pain! I went to seven or eight bridal stores and probably tried on around 70 dresses. Here is the reality – you might not cry when you find your dress, and that is okay. You just want something that you feel beautiful in and is true to yourself. I really struggled with choosing a more form fitting, mermaid style or a more princess-like ballgown. In the end, I reflected on how I had always dreamed of feeling on my wedding day — I had grown up imagining feeling like a fairy princess, and even though the mermaid dresses were beautiful, they made me feel sexy and not like a princess (not that there is anything wrong with that!). The Chandon ballgown by Hayley Paige ended up being the perfect dress for me. I loved that it wasn’t white, had layer upon layer of romantic tulle, and had a gorgeous ballerina back (I danced ballet for about 15 years). I truly felt like a princess the entire day, and it could not have been more perfect.

For my bridesmaids, I wanted each of them to feel as confident and beautiful in their dress as I felt in mine! I ended up deciding to do a mix and match approach with different colors and styles. BHLDN had an amazing selection with a ton of color options, so the majority of the dresses came from there. I think the best way to create a cohesive look is to pick 10-12 dresses that all look good together and then encourage your bridesmaids to choose from those.

Our wedding involved a lot of DIY projects. I think it is great to DIY, but it is important to recognize limitations and decide what is worth your time and what is better to leave to a professional. We decided to make our own invitations, signage (with a few exceptions), menus, cake, seating display, and ribbon wands. The invitations were the most work as we hand tore them all, cut our own ribbon, and had to stamp about 150 wax seals, but it ended up being a ton of fun and a great bonding experience. It was so special to have Martin involved in these projects and really heightened the realization that it was OUR wedding.

All in all the whole day goes by in a blink of an eye. Sometimes it can be difficult, but try to enjoy the entire process. I had always dreamed of a fairytale wedding, and thanks to a group of awesome vendors, my husband, and our amazing family/bridal party, we were able to make that dream a reality. Everything comes together on the actual wedding day, and you feel like you are floating on cloud nine.

Photography: Aga Jones Photography | Cinematography: Amari Productions | Coordination: Tres Chic Affairs | Floral Design: Trendee Flowers | Wedding Dress: JLM Couture | Cake: DIY Project by Bride | Invitations: DIY Project by Bride | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Lulu's | Bridesmaids' Dresses: BHLDN | Makeup: Blush and Adore | Hair: SV Glamour | DJ: Adam Trigg | Groom's Attire: Ermeneglildo Zegna | Groomsmen's Attire: Friar Tux | Venue: Twin Oaks Garden Estate | Bridal Boutique: JLM Couture | Donut Bar: Nomad Donuts | On Site Calligraphy: Four Things Paper | Photobooth: A Little Scene | Rentals: To Be Designed | Work Out: Studio Barre Carmel Valley

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Petit Bouquet

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From the Bride…

A year after Paul and I started dating, we both went away from home to the east coast for school. While we were out east, we got engaged and couldn’t wait to plan our wedding back home in California. We envisioned an intimate and romantic wedding, and we both love nature and the ocean. When we visited Casa Romantica in San Clemente, a beautiful Spanish-style estate with an incredible view overlooking the Pacific Ocean, we were immediately in love.

When it came time to styling our wedding, we wanted to create a natural and organic theme. Fortunately, we knew we didn’t have to do much to achieve the feel we were looking for because the venue was already everything we wanted. Both of our favorite colors are blue so we chose dusty blue and ivory as our colors, which was also a natural pairing with our ocean venue. We then hand painted blue watercolor escort cards, which we also matched with our stationery and watercolor ombré cake. For flowers, we chose white flowers with lush greens and hints of creamy neutrals to continue our theme of simple and natural.

One of our favorite details of the wedding was the favors for our guests. My family loves gardening and my mom especially loves to propagate and grow succulents. So for a few months leading up to wedding, my mom and I grew baby succulents in our backyard to give to our guests as favors at the wedding. We planted each set of succulents in its own individualized mini pot and grew them with love. Each succulent was its own unique creation, so it was extremely fun and rewarding to see our guests choose their own special pot to take home.

When Paul and I think back to our wedding, one of our most special moments was when we were sitting next to each other at our sweetheart table sharing our first meal together as husband and wife. We were truly able to soak in the moment and cherish our time together. Similarly, if we could give brides and couples one piece of advice, it would be to enjoy the planning process, and on the big day itself, to take a small pause and really take in all of the little moments. These are the memories that will remain with you long after your wedding day, and the memories that Paul and I will cherish together forever.

Photography: Adrian Jon Photography | Cinematography: Petro Motion Films | Event Planning: Jacqueline Hallgarth Events | Floral Design: Posh Peony | Wedding Dress: JLM Couture | Cake: Sweetlee Made | Catering: Giracci Vineyards Farms | Makeup: Confetti LA | DJ: SoundWave Productions | Wedding Venue: Casa Romantica | Rentals: Signature Party Rentals

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Starting with a bank slate, this inspiration designed by Simply Tamara Nicole layers texture and unexpected details that give a traditional white wedding a modern spin. From a contemporary floral crown to a cloud-like installation by Wild Bloom Floral and layers upon layers of white and ivory, Rebecca Yale’s images are proof that you don’t need color to make your decor pop.

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From Rebecca & Tamara Nicole…The inspiration behind the shoot was to show a modern spin on the classic idea of the white wedding. We see so much white on white in weddings, but always done in a very traditional way and we wanted to approach the idea of white with a more sculptural sensibility focusing on modern sleek lines with an architectural sense of structure and three dimensionality. Even though all the pieces were created for a photo shoot there was a very tactile sense of texture in all of the floral elements and using vellum and clear glass for the paper goods invites you into the scene to interact with the pieces as a viewer. I envision a modern, minimal, artsy and polished city couple with great design style. Perhaps they were getting married in a New York loft, or a big clean white industrial/warehouse located in the heart of a big city. A location that is clean, minimal to allow the multitude of layers and textures stand out center stage. I have been so drawn visually to clean lines, white space and simplicity, which we carried throughout the shoot

From Wild Bloom…As a floral designer white is really an amazing hue to work with because it can be used as much or as little as needed to achieve a certain aesthetic. When used with other shades white can be a palette unifier or stand alone as a graphic statement. For this design we wanted to create something striking, architectural and beautiful. To do this we focused on choosing blooms that conveyed texture without being overwhelming. For the Bridal bouquet all of the textural blooms (Parrot Tulips and Garden Roses) helped support the core shape of the bouquet rather than detract from it. Then we added White Cherry Blossoms to give it an architectural quality and extend the lines in an unusual surreal way. Installations are something that I really enjoy creating for my clients. They can be an original way to incorporate florals beyond the traditional table centerpiece or garland. For this tablescape we wanted to create a real WOW moment that any couple would be thrilled to share with their guests. The main flower in this hanging chandelier is Lunaria. Lunaria is a beautifully iridescent flower with thin petals that almost resemble paper. When used in abundance the Lunaria takes on an otherworldly quality that is really ethereal. We then added Cherry Blossoms Branches to break up the design giving it an architectural & graphic quality. With a large installation is it always important to find balance. So for the table we simplified. We focused on creating levels and a sense of space with the florals and candles. On the table the main flowers we used were Ranunculus, I love the lines of the Ranunculus stem paired with the extra ruffled petals on the head of the bloom. It is the perfect balance of architectural and soft.

Photography: Rebecca Yale Photography | Photography: Rebecca Yale Photography | Planner: Simply By Tamara Nicole | Florist: Wild Bloom Floral | Florist: Wild Bloom Floral | Dress: Alexandra Grecco | Makeup and Hair: Yessie Libby | Favors: Sugarfina | Accessories Stylist: Madly Bride | Cage Veil: Shavato Veils | Cake and Desserts: Lilac Cake Boutique | Candle Holders: CB2 | Cocktails: Happy Camper Cocktails | Cuff Links: David Donahue | Custom Backdrop: Britnee Busse | Dress Store: The Dress Theory | Engagement Rings: Susie Saltzman | Escort Card Holders: Crate & Barrel | Invitations, Paper Goods and Calligraphy: Bespoke Strokes | Long Veil : Hushed Commotion | Model: Seattle Models Guild | Paper Goods, Invitations and Calligraphy: Bespoke Strokes | Planner and Designer: Simply By Tamara Nicole | Plates: Convivial Productions | Rentals: Cort Party Rentals | Ring Boxes: The Mrs Box | Vases: West Elm | Watch: Michael Kors

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Rebecca Yale Photography

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Going for that coastal vibe? Toss your anchor decor and mason jars filled with shells my friends. Achieving success with any style is all about embracing subtlety and considering the bigger picture, especially when it comes to coastal, which can easily be overdone. Just ask designer, Marie Flanigan, who crafted this perfectly balanced beach-y abode—from shiplap detailing to texture in all the right places, she’s giving us a few pointers on how to achieve this look! See the full tour captured by Julie Soefer in the full gallery.

Start with Shiplap

Shiplap is an architectural staple in coastal design and, because there’s no steadfast rules regarding panel sizing or placement, it’s an element everyone should have fun personalizing! In an effort to enhance daily living and entertaining, we made quite a few structural changes to the layout of this vacation home. Once we had a fresh, clean slate we opted to coat the primary living spaces in shiplap to achieve a sense of cohesion throughout.

Anchors A-way

We’re not saying you have to steer clear of all nautical décor, but be sure to layer in your coastal accents with thought and purpose. In lieu of nonstop anchors and boats, embrace a seaside color palette filled with greys, greens, and blues, and then accent those with richly-textured, nature-inspired elements like driftwood, rough-hewn beams, and woven rope.

Invite the Outdoors In

When it comes to coastal living, it’s all about that view, which means your windows will be taking center stage! Do away with heavy shutters and shades, opting instead for breezy sheers or lightweight natural roman shades that elegantly frame up your beautiful surroundings!

Dose Up on Durability

Sandy toes, sunscreen, and wet bathing suits are a common coastal sight, so be sure you’re pulling in soft goods capable of standing up to heavy wear and tear! Indoor/outdoor rugs are perfect for softening up the floors and almost every vendor offers a high-performance collection of fabrics, so you can enjoy worry-free fun in the sun!

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Photography: Julie Soefer | Interior Design: Marie Flanigan

We’re big fans of pretty much every color of the rainbow, but if you’re looking to infuse a little amour into your big day, we’ll be the first ones to tell you: pink all the way. From blush to dusty, there’s nothing like a gorgeous pink hue to up the ante on romance, and our new fave shade from the geniuses at Bari Jay will definitely do the trick. They call it ROSE, but we’re just calling it downright stunning and this photo shoot at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is total proof.

We’re true believers that gorgeous shades of pink are the end-all, be-all when it comes to breathtaking weddings, and dressing up your besties in this beautiful Rose hue is definitely the way to add that pop of fresh color… and romance. Even better? The team at Bari Jay happens to be experts at all things bridesmaid wear (they’ve had 50+ years of experience), which means a bridal party that not only looks beautiful, but it happy, too. Think luxe fabrics like chiffon, satin, georgette, english net and sequin, sizes ranging from 0-26W (petite and extra length is also an option!) and maternity separates with stretch panels, so it doesn’t have to be uncomfortable for all of your ladies who are expecting. (Cheers to that, friends.) Plus, we love that this family-owned business thinks of all of the little details, like junior bridesmaid gowns and flower girl options, so you can coordinate ’til your heart’s content.

We don’t know what your agenda looks like today, but ours is filled with this beautiful shoot from the talents of You Look Lovely Fine Art Photography, Patina Events, Shutterfly, Gabrielle Hurwitz… and more. We’re offering up a friendly suggestion for you join us in all of the pretty perusing, then head to Bari Jay to find the dresses of your bestie’s dreams. Because they’re awesome.

Photography: You Look Lovely Photography | Floral Design: Gabrielle Hurwitz | Flowers: Fifty Flowers | Wedding Dress: Mon Cherie | Invitations: Shutterfly | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Bari Jay | Hair & Makeup: Face Time Beauty Concierge | Venue: Brooklyn Botanic Garden | Catering + Event Production: Patina Events at Brooklyn Botanic Garden | Event Planning, Design & Styling: Gabrielle Hurwitz | Fashion Styling : Gabrielle Hurwitz | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Shoot Coordination : Meredith Hurley | Shoot Coordination : Meredith Hurley

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As the details of your wedding day begin to take shape and you start to flesh out a wedding day timeline, it is easy to nail down the big ticket items. Ceremony time, dinner service, and grand exit. However, as you work out the flow of your celebration there are a few key items you need to account for in order to ensure the day is seamless.

An unexpected 15-minute delay here followed by a 10-minute hiccup there can throw the entire timeline off schedule surprisingly quickly. Thankfully, we’ve rounded up all the important, and often overlooked, items you need to account for in your timeline!

Hair and Makeup Timing

This is the part of the timeline where you have to work backward! If your first look or bridal party pictures start at 2 p.m., for example, you would likely want all beauty services to conclude by noon so you have time to get dressed and ready for pictures.

Your particular hair and makeup artist will be able to make a more specific schedule, with appointment slots for everyone, but a good rule of thumb is 30 minutes per person per service. With a larger bridal party you may end up needing to start as early as 8:00 am or so! Break out the mimosas (and coffee!) it’s going to be a busy morning!

Venue Load-in Time

Another spot where you need to read your contract carefully is when it comes to your venue load-in time. Many venues will provide a set number of hours for load-in, per the contract, and charge per the hour for any additional hours you may need.

Speak with your floral and event designer team to figure out how much time they’ll need to load-in. They may need a few more hours in the morning. Or, if the decor is more complicated, they may even need an additional day or more.

Travel time from the ceremony to the reception

If your wedding ceremony is being held at a different venue from the reception, at a church for example, then you want to factor in the time it will take to bus guests over to the reception. If the trip takes about 15 minutes then consider adding an extra quarter hour to your cocktail hour. This ensures that guests won’t feel rushed, and will have a chance to visit the bar, before being asked to be seated for dinner.

Additionally, if you’re providing transportation for your guests, in lieu of having them Lyft or drive themselves, remember to factor in how many trips the bus may need to make. You may want to consider having multiple buses so guests don’t have to wait for the transportation to make a round trip to the venue before they’re able to depart.

Providing a seamless transportation experience for guests ensures they’ll enjoy the overall flow of the day!

Private Moment

I’m sure and a million and one people have told you that your wedding day will fly by. Guess what? They’re correct. This day is about you and your new spouse, so consider scheduling in a ten or fifteen-minute private moment at the end of cocktail hour (after family formals) and before you’re introduced into your reception.

Also, if your wedding dress has a bustle that needs to be done this is the perfect time to do that! Pro tip: ask your caterer to have a plate of your hors d’oeuvres and your specialty cocktails waiting for you in your private moment space!

Band Break Time

If you’re having a band perform at your reception chances are, per their contract, they require a band break. Your point of contact with the band will be able to tell you when they typically like to take it and they’ll ask that you help them curate a playlist to have going during that short time.

A great way to deter attention from the empty stage during the break is to schedule the cake cutting or any other special programming elements to take place during the break. Guests won’t realize that it is a break the band had to take, they’ll just assume you planned it all that way!

​​​​​​​Style Me Pretty Contributor – Hannah Nowack is a freelance writer, calligrapher, and event designer living in the Midwest. When she isn’t working, you will find her decorating her Danish Modern-inspired apartment, frequenting the gourmet cheese counter, or enjoying a glass of Cabernet with friends.

Tutto e bello! Everything is oh so very beautiful in Tuscany and this engagement shoot is no different. Peter and Veronika followed these two cuties around the village of Monticchiello and into the countryside before they said “I do” – which is just as fabulous and can be seen on our Front Page right now! But before we get to the big hurrah, let’s take a slower pace and enjoy every step of this relaxed ,yet super chic, shoot before us right here.

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From Bride-to-be… We didn’t initially plan on having an engagement shoot, but it turned out that some of our favorite photos and memories of our magical wedding week were from that afternoon! We strolled around the fairytale village of Monticchiello as Peter and Veronika put us at ease and really helped us to enjoy ourselves and get excited for our wedding day. They made us feel totally comfortable in front of the camera and the scenery was so breathtaking that it was impossible not to be overcome with awe and joy! At one point, as we walked through a quiet picturesque square, a woman leaning out over her balcony threw her arms out and said, “tutto e bello!” – “everything is beautiful”. And it really was!

Photography: Peter & Veronika | Dress: Reformation | Film Scans: Richard Photo Lab

How would you feel if you showed up to your wedding weekend having never before visited the venue? Well for this daring couple, the risk certainly paid off! They booked Terre di Nano sight unseen under the guidance of Laura Bravi Events, and the wedding itself could not have turned out more dreamy. Friends, we’re talking full on romance at this Tuscan countryside affair, but you can see it for yourself in the gorgeous images by Peter and Veronika and film by 2become1. Plus, we’ve got their equally pretty engagement coming up next for you over on the Little Black Book Blog!

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From the bride… As we set out to begin planning our wedding, we both knew that we wanted a countryside setting overlooking a sweeping landscape, to feel as though we were perched on the edge of the earth as we read our vows. I dreamt of getting married in Tuscany since I was a little girl, and the place had captivated me ever since a trip I took when I was 15. Only after looking for several months Stateside did we decide to take the leap and have our wedding in Italy, sight unseen!

Every single detail came together beautifully for our 45 guests, from the string duo that played the song both of our parents were married to as we walked down the aisle to the gelato cart that served special treats during the cocktail hour to the reception in an olive grove under the stars with a full moon above us. Blush and dusty blue tones accented the greenery and gold of the natural landscape while little details and personal touches made our day feel truly magical including the hand-calligraphed ribbon that bore a tribute to my grandmother, the handkerchief with a message for my father, and the hand-painted drawing of my wedding shoes by Happy Menocal.

Photography: Peter & Veronika | Cinematography: 2Become1 | Event Planning: Laura Bravi Events | Floral Design: Ilprofumodeifiori | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Stationery: Jolly Edition | Shoes: Manolo Blahnik | Engagement Ring: Family Heirloom | Wedding Bands: Tiffany & Co. | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Needle + Thread | Hair: Patrizia Tavella | Favors: Daniblu | Groom's Attire: DKNY | Venue: Terre Di Nano | Amethyst Cocktail Ring: Tiffany & Co. | Bouquet Ribbon: Silk and Willow | Earrings: Tiffany & Co. | Film Processing: Richard Photo Lab | Flower Girl's Dress: Mon Cherie | Groomsmen's Accessories: Tiffany & Co. | Photography Assistance: Floretally | Rentals: Preludio Noleggi | Ribbon Calligraphy: Seniman Calligraphy | Ring Box: The Mrs Box | Shoe Painting: Happy Menocal

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Hello, melt-your-heart wedding! This elegant outdoor affair in North Carolina planned by The Graceful Host (in just four months!) was a celebration not only of love, but of two beautiful little families coming together as one. Perry Vaile captured all the most touching moments, from cuddles between the bride and their little girl (aka the cutest flower girl) to the groom helping their boys with the boutonnieres. We love love love this family’s special day!

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From The Graceful Host Events… Alyson and Matthew were married in a family-centered ceremony, with their children by their side, and surrounded by close family and friends on August 12th at Champagne Manor in Monroe, North Carolina – just outside of Charlotte. They have built a beautiful life together with their blended family and wanted to create a celebration centered around their love of family as well as their new beginning as husband and wife. The entire wedding was planned in less than four months and no detail was spared by the couple!

Our design was inspired by earth tones and organic textures with a feminine undertone, and it was achieved using a somewhat neutral palette of mauve, peach, ivory, dove grey, and greenery. The atmosphere was chic yet relaxed, incorporating upholstered lounge areas into their open seating floor plan for a mix and mingle feel to the night. The dance floor was highlighted by a 8′ x 8′ hanging installation of greenery with twinkling glass orbs hanging, and signature drinks (champagne with berries and pomegranate juice and a pineapple mule) were added to the customized bar as a nod to his and her styles.

Photography: Perry Vaile Photography | Event Design + Planning: The Graceful Host | Floral Design: New Creations Flower Company | Cake: Wow Factor Cakes | Reception Venue: Champagne Mnaor | Catering: Best Impressions | Makeup: Lindsey Regan Thorne | Bridal Boutique: J. Major's Bridal Boutique | Bridesmaid Dress: Show Me Your Mumu | Paper Goods: Pink Toast Ink | Rentals: Party Reflections | Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Old South Vintage Rentals | Rentals: Crush Event Rentals

One look at this Bali celebration through the lens of Sally Pinera and you’ll be hooked. It’s a given that Khayangan Estate is gorgeous all on its own, but when you throw in the most elegant, tropical affair crafted by Call Me Madame and Bloomz Fine Flowers, it takes this destination to magical proportions. And just wait until you see the reception beautifully draped in fabric. Gorgeous is an understatement.

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From Planner Alice Dentan… When Anita and Aiden first got in touch with us, our team at Call Me Madame was absolutely thrilled by their choice of venue: one of Bali’s most elegant venue, the Khayangan Estate. So as to match the grandeur of this stunning setting, we designed a décor that would follow three criteria: refinement, romance and simple sophistication. We decided to use fabrics as the main thread of our styling: in the welcome sign, the stationery, the menus, the place
cards, the guest book and so on… Hence, we sought for the finest handcraft fabric for the welcome signs; for the most elegant silk chiffons to create sweet place cards; for the lightest cotton texture to hang above the dinner in a soft and exquisite ceiling of drapes. We choose a romantic, boudoir look for the ceremony, with a palette of pastels: some light wood Louis chairs, a beautiful taupe canopy created by the amazing team of Bloomz. Our team from Call Me Madame welcomed the guests by distributing them custom-made hand fans by the lovely Anggun from Bunny at Dawn, proposing them some locally made embroidered happy tears tissues and helping them creating their very own cones of petals from our delicate confetti bar. The cocktail styling was created as an indoor-outdoor décor, with a guest book made of small pieces of fabric on which the guests would write their best wishes to the couple, and then pin them on a wood structure, creating a collaborative piece of art. After sunset, the guests looked for their escort cards that we slipped into champagne glasses: “sip and be seated”. So French! We set up the dinner tables under a stunning open wooden structure, with white cotton veils, vintage crystal chandeliers and festoon lights. We selected ash linen tablecloths from The Host Table and the beautiful Louis chairs. Our florist Bloomz created centerpieces in a camaieu of light pink, coral, peach. We used the beautiful taper candles from Creatives Candles, and handcrafted pillar ones. Menus were calligraphed by our favorite Shervi from Pi Calligraphy and printed on off-white fabric. The bride and groom choose a three-tier wedding cake designed by the one and only Gita from Butter Bali, with floating sugar flowers and foliage details. They opened the dancefloor on Yellow by Coldplay, beautifully interpreted by Damaris and her band. And all this under the perfect eye of Sally Pinera!

Photography: Sally Pinera | Event Design and Planning: Call Me Madame | Florals: Bloomz Fine Flowers | Wedding Cake: Butter Bali | Catering: M & M Concepts | Hair and Makeup: Pinky Ku | Calligraphy: Pi Calligraphy | Band: Eva Scolaro & Band | Venue: Khayangan Estate | Bridal Gown 1: Inbal Dror | Bridal Gown 2: Jenny Packham | Bridal Shoes: Christian Louboutin | Candles: Creative Candles | Tableware: The Host Table

While it is SO much fun to plan and design baby’s nursery, it’s super important to make sure your sweet one’s space will be functional for all of the not-so-pretty moments… from naps to nighttime feeds and diaper changes ’round the clock. Today, we’re chatting with Lisa of YouthfulNest on exactly how to do that and what you should get. rid. of. I wish I would have known about #2 before my baby was born—nap time would have been way easier!

From Lisa of YouthfulNest… Planning for baby is an exciting time that comes with a whole lotta decision making. Many of those decisions are made regarding setting up the nursery. While this is an opportunity to design a stylish room, YouthfulNest designers understand it is a unique space, unlike any other you have in your home. It needs to be highly functional at all hours of the day and night. Dark and light. So before you start making all those decisions, here are some of our expert recommendations on getting ready for baby.

1. Clear the Way

This baby has already taken over your body, next it will be your home. Whether you have a separate baby room or the baby will be sleeping in your bedroom, you want to have a clear path from your side of the bed to the crib. Remove all floor items that might be potentially trip hazards like storage bins, loose rugs or that bench at the end of the bed that sticks out just enough for you to stub your toe as you make a made dash to pick up your crying baby.

2. Send them Packing

You bought your home because you love all that natural light that fills the rooms right? Well, it’s time take down and pack up those chic wispy curtains in the room where the baby will be sleep.

Replace lightweight window treatments with blackout options for daytime naps. Darkness allows our bodies to release melatonin, a hormone that induces sleep – trust us you want to make the most of blackout curtains or anything else that will keep and extend baby’s slumber.

3. Lights Out

Along the lines of having a dark room for superior sleep this piece of advice also aims to keep you and baby a bit more in the dark. As a new mother you’ll be making various trips into the nursery in the middle of the night, half asleep, to care for baby. A blast of light from an overhead fixture might help you see what you’re doing, but it won’t help you or the baby fall back to sleep easily. Instead you want a kiss of light to get you through. Swap out harsh lighting from over head fixtures and task lamps and instead introduce more ambient lightening. You can see what you’re doing, but not over stimulate yourselves. We recommend installing a dimmer switch for the main overhead fixture and choose task lighting with low-light setting options. All of these softer settings will keep both baby and mommy in a more drowsy state, finding it easier to fall back asleep after every feeding or changing.

4. Out with the Old

Your newborn will grow quickly right before your eyes and around 3 months old you’ll start doing something called “tummy time”. Well, not you exactly, your baby. Basically you lay your tiny babe awake on the floor, on their tummy, face down which encourages them to lift their head, helping strengthen their head, neck and shoulder muscles and boost motor skills.

For this and for every other moment you are on the floor with your baby for any reason (which will be a lot) we say banish the old, carpet or rugs and bring in the new. There are wonderful brands that make beautiful kid’s machine washable rug styles to maintain a healthy surface. Perfect for the nursery and other areas in your home.

5. Shake it Off

Lastly, rid your baby brain self of the need to have the “perfect” nursery. Simply, look to make your space personal and comfortable for you and other caregivers. Designing a nursery should be fun and ultimately make you feel more confident to care for your newborn.

Lisa Janvrin is the founder of YouthfulNest.com, an online interior design experience dedicated to bringing confidence and convenience to the modern parent through services for their baby or child’s room. Lisa has 20+ years as a design expert.

Expert: YouthfulNest

You know we’re all about the romantic details, so the minute we landed on these gorgeous captures from Madison James’ Spring 2018 Collection, we were absolutely mesmerized. The delicate fabrics, unique designs and flattering silhouettes are enough to make any bride fall in love – and that intricate detailing? We can’t even. Scroll for some of the prettiest gowns ever to grace the runways, you guys.

When it comes to romantic bridal gowns, Madison James simply knows how it’s done. And their newest collection of princess-worthy dresses? It’s everything you’ve come to expect from this team of design geniuses – right down to the body-skimming silhouettes. With soft, silky fabrics like lace and tulle, shimmering details and totally unique patterns, these are designs that are perfect for the bride who wants a little something classic, a little something modern and a little something totally on trend. (Read: all of you.) We love the unique necklines – from spaghetti strap to halter to strapless – and are literally obsessed with the illusion details. Oh, and those sleeves? Say hello to your Princess Kate moment.

If you’re in search of a romantic wedding gown that will leave ALL of your guests talking, Madison James Spring 2018 Collection is where it’s at. Visit their website today to peruse all of the pretties, then find a locale near you to get shopping.

Florist: Cotton Lifestyles | Hair: MOLLYGEEdesigns | Make Up Artist: Hear and Soul by Ally Nicole | Photograhy: Ashley Upchurch

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Petit Bouquet

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I love cocktail hour. Wedding cocktail hour, I mean. And really, how could you not? It’s the start of the party! The food, the drinks…it completely sets the tone for the entire evening. We’ve been to some good ones and some bad ones. So, in hopes my December wedding cocktail hour be dubbed a “good one,” I enlisted the help of a few wedding experts to share their dos and don’ts.

DO serve bubbles
“Any kind of champagne or prosecco gives a fun, celebratory vibe,” A Fare Extraordinaire says. Not solely reserved for the toasts, bubbles are inherently festive so serving them as guests arrive is a sure fire way to get people excited about the evening’s celebration.

DON’T have the music too loud, big, or expensive
“Most people aren’t looking or expecting the be entertained during a cocktail hour. They really want to talk and mingle, eat some light food and drink a few drinks before dinner,” says Mike Ostrow, bandleader of Free Spirit and owner of Entertainment Exchange. In short, the music shouldn’t overpower the festivities. There will be plenty of time for dancing later!

DO have bite-sized appetizers
Dinner is where you can serve a luxurious fork-and-knife meal. Appetizers that are passed are easy and convenient to pop in your mouth—think tuna tartare tacos or mini short rib grilled cheeses. “Make sure to have a range of heavy and light options and also a variety of proteins and vegetarian options,” A Fare Extraordinaire says.

DON’T forget non-alcoholic drinks
Not everyone will be partying the night away, so make sure to have water, soda, and sparkling water available. And as a bride, it isn’t a bad idea to make sure you stay hydrated, too.

DO communicate with your musicians about your vision
“Most often miscommunication happens when the planning for the space has not been properly conveyed to the artists who are performing at the cocktail hour,” Ostrow says. For example, do you need a power outlet at your outdoor cocktail hour for a keyboard or electric guitar? How about speakers? What kind of music are you thinking about playing? You want to talk through those details with the DJ or band before the big day arrives.

DON’T forget to have a signature cocktail
Let your personality shine with your favorite cocktails. Share your favorite happy hour go-to or mix up a new seasonal favorite. You want something crowd-pleasing (a spicy or heavy drink might not do the trick), but something that is still uniquely you.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Briana Charlotte is a freelance writer residing in Brooklyn, New York. When she isn’t writing about all things bridal, she can be found on the dance floor at a wedding or bachelorette party or finally learning how to dance for her own upcoming nuptials.

It may have been the very first L’Artisan Workshop gathering but they knew what they were doing when they created this ceremony inspiration shoot. We’re absolutely in love with the beautiful pergola, complete with never-ending vines and florals… and a bride-to-be that’s beaming, a dapper groom and a flower girl that’s just too cute for words. Maru Photography captured everything that French Grey Events planned out and styled creating this gorgeous gallery – see it all here!
P.S. For more info on the next installment of the L’Artisan Workshop, see below for info!

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From French Grey Events… This stylish French-inspired intimate wedding editorial was created for the inaugural edition of L’Artisan Workshop, a fine art wedding workshop that caters specifically to destination photographers and stylists wishing to immerse themselves in the romantic and adventurous world of of intimate destination weddings and elopements. Workshop co-founders Kasia of French Grey Events, a Paris-based stylist and wedding planner and Kim-Maru of Maru Photography, a Vancouver, Canada based destination wedding and travel photographer, created this editorial with the modern destination bride in mind – a woman who longs to combine her taste for bold adventure with her nostalgia for old world romance. Et voila! What better way to combine adventure with old world romance than to have an intimate autumn wedding ceremony in an authentic French Chateau?!

Shot on the grounds of beautiful Chateau Barthelemy, an authentic 18th century French Chateau, located just outside of Paris, we appealed to the adventurous side of our bride by bringing in design elements of the wild in the winding vines, foraged forest botanicals and wild roses and set them against the romance and historic charm provided by the marble pillars and wrought iron of the Chateau’s beautiful forest pergola. Following a romantic sunset ceremony, the newly wed couple (and all of our workshop attendees!) retreated to the cozy warmth of the Chateau, to sip champagne, eat cake and cuddle up by a crackling fire, of course!

Join Kasia and Kim-Maru this October 8 – 11, 2018 for the second instalment of L’Artisan Workshop with a talented team of destination wedding creatives for four days filled with inspiration, education, artistry and connection! This year’s workshop will be held at the iconic hotel Ritz Paris and charming Chateau de la Bucherie – the perfect combination of chic modern romance and nostalgic French charm! Doors open for early bird registration on March 1, 2018. Visit L’Artisan Workshop for more details on how to join this year’s adventure in Paris!

Photography: Maru Photography | Floral Design: Floresie | Wedding Dress: Elise Hameau | Cakes: T Bakes | Stationery: Atelier Preszburger | Bride's Shoes: Emmy London | Engagement Ring: Susie Saltzman | Groom's Attire: L'apieceur | Venue: Château Barthélémy | Bespoke Headpieces: Couture Bridal Accessories | Candles: Ester & Erik | Event Planning + Styling: French Grey Events | Event Production: NKT Events | Flower Girl Dress: Les Petits Inclassables | Flower Girl Headpiece: Elise Hameau | Flower Girl Shoes: Zara | Furniture Rentals: Options | Hair + Make-up: Jess Karas | Pearl Earrings: Bekah Anne | Printers: Studio Pression | Ribbons: Kate Cullen | Ring Box: La Petit Box | Tableware Rentals: Vaisselle Vintage | Veils: Couture Bridal Accessories | Vow Books: Wedding Story Writer | Workshop: Maru Photography

Holy Bouquet! I love this bride’s big, beautiful, merlot and blush bouquet by Colonial House of Flowers so much, I may have to run to my nearest floral designer and beg her to recreate it as an arrangement for my kitchen. The Happy Bloom absolutely nailed it when they pointed out just what’s so striking about this bouquet AND this celebration – in a world of beautiful blush weddings, with the help of Emily Burton Designs this couple took the popular hue and made completely transformed it!

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From The Happy Bloom… Ashley and Marcus could not have had a more perfect wedding day – sunny with a breeze, a waterfront ceremony underneath Spanish moss, a bright and spacious reception space. It was a dream. In a world of MANY blush weddings, Ashley decided to take blush and make it her own by adding dusty blues and deep maroons.

From the bride… When I think of the South, I think of the deep South, where my grandmother grew up. I think of the marsh, the live Oak trees, and of course the Spanish moss. A proper Southern wedding to me, combines the carefree Southern attitude with elegance. Our wedding happened to be this perfect combination of fun and fancy. I couldn’t have asked for a better venue; Musgrove Plantation is a beautiful location right on the marsh, and we were surrounded by these grand old live Oaks covered in Spanish moss.

My vision for the wedding day was a combination of otherwise contradicting elements; I wanted to be married on the marsh, in the backwoods, surrounded by live Oaks and Spanish moss, but I also wanted it to be an elegant affair. I wanted it to be both effortlessly fun and yet sophisticated. The decor almost picked out itself. We had a rustic look with classic dinnerware and chic little elements added in. As for the colors, I knew I wanted to incorporate blues and pinks without it looking like a baby shower, and the deep merlot and gold just happened to complement perfectly.

I remember it all! It was so much fun, from getting up early with the girls to get ready to dancing the night away. I want to do it all again! The moment I remember most, and perhaps my favorite of the day, was walking down the aisle with my father. I stepped out from the little maze garden and was immediately struck with joy by the sight of all of the people that had come to celebrate with us. The sight of my soon-to-be husband, standing under the giant Oak tree, looking very dashing in his tux, didn’t hurt either! I’m definitely not one of those people who likes to be the center of attention, but in that moment, will all eyes on me as we walked down the aisle, everything was perfect.

We are just getting settled in to our new life in Austin, Texas. (I wouldn’t recommend moving to a new city while planning a wedding!) We are looking forward to being able to rest now that the wedding planning is over, and we will be going to Hawaii in May. After that? We’re not sure. We would like to travel before we settle down too much, but we’re just taking things slow for now.

From Emily Burton Designs…

The Vision: Whimsical fall elegance with an emphasis on the natural surroundings. I pulled in natural farmhouse tables that matched the natural wood on the surrounding trees. All of the signage was a combination of wood and lucite to bring in a bit of whimsy and was adorned with natural greenery and oversized peonies.

The Food: Ashley and Marcus are such foodies, hence we chose “fun plays” on their first dates like the famous taco truck in Dallas (hence the mini margaritas and beef tacos that were served at their wedding).

Photography: Justin Leon Brown (formerly The Happy Bloom) | Event Planning: Emily Burton Designs | Floral Design: Colonial House of Flowers, Est. 1968 | Wedding Dress: Crystal Design | Invitations: Minted | Catering: Cape Creations Catering, Inc | Hair + Makeup: Emma Collins Beauty | Men's Attire: The Black Tux | Venue: Musgrove Plantation | Bridesmaids Dress Boutique: Bella Bridesmaid | Music: All About You Entertainment | Rentals: Beachview Event Rentals and Design

For these home owners, making the most of their square footage was high on the list of priorities. This translated into renovations with the biggest impact; a.k.a. kitchen and bathrooms. Enlisting the help of interior designer Sarah Scales, they transformed their older home into a bright, modern space that feels much larger than its city-like footprint. Take the full tour photographed by Jessica Delaney right here.

Renovating in an older home can be tricky, especially when working on a house with a small city-like footprint. Square footage was tight, and the structure was old. For the Rowe Street project, an original kitchen and dining room were combined to create a modern living space for a family of four.

The homeowners wanted to keep the windows intact, and designed around their existing locations. The sink was placed in front of one window – it’s all about the view when doing the dishes. The range and hood are centered between two windows, architectural symmetry that creates a powerful elevation.

A tall pantry was included at the end of the cabinet run and gives plenty of storage for dry food. A small run of cabinets with a beverage refrigerator complete the space. Natural woven shades, personal artwork, and a fun area rug add warmth.

The perimeter of the kitchen more than doubled the counter space and houses all of the major appliances. A central island is anchored by two glass pendants – from Pottery Barn – and has proven to be the busiest space in the house.

The young family wanted to invest in certain aspects of the project, and save elsewhere. A big save was the kitchen table and chairs. Two young boys make for a messy dining space, and the furniture needed to be both affordable and durable. 

If the kids destroy the furniture…no big deal. This Ikea table was coated with a marine-grade epoxy paint and can pretty much handle anything. The chairs offer more than just a nod to mid-century, the plastic is a breeze for cleaning.

The bathrooms are a major update. The family had previously shared one full bathroom.

The kids bath has a new blue penny tile floor. An updated shower and new vanity create a fresh, clean bath. Matouk linens and simple artwork from Minted add that personal and soft touch to each bath.

A new master suite includes an oversized walk-in shower. The dark grey vanity connects to the grey island from the kitchen, and is capped with a Carrera marble.

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Photography : Jessica Delaney Photography | Appliances: KitchenAid | Artwork: Minted | Bath Linens: Matouk Linai | Bathroom Vanity: Kitchen & Bath Collection | Cabinet Hardware: Restoration Hardware | Countertops: Frangioso Granite | Faucet : Blanco | Frames: West Elm | Interior Design: Sarah Scales | Kitchen Sink: Empire Industries | Lighting - Island: Restoration Hardware | Lighting - Table: Pottery Barn | Runner: Rejuvenation | Shower Fixtures: Symmons | Wall & Floor Tile: Prosource of Boston South

While there is definitely something to be said for tradition (I’ll always love trying to spot a bride’s something old, new, borrowed, and blue!), these days, more and more couples are opting to infuse their nuptials with their own unique style and personality, versus making key decisions based solely on the sake of tradition.

One fun way to let friends and family partake in your ‘couple style’ right off the bat is the guest book! Gone are the days of simply a collection of signatures left to collect dust on your bookshelf. There are a million ways to commemorate your big day, and the people you share it with, that will be fresh, personalized and serve as a surprise for your guests.

Map It Out
One of the best things about your wedding day is seeing loved ones travel from near and far to celebrate. Whether someone’s come from across the pond, or just across town, commemorate their journey by having guests pinpoint a spot on a globe or world map and sign away. It could be where they’re from, their favorite place to vacation, or even where they shared a fun memory with the bride or groom. Brings “X marks the spot!” to a whole new level!

Toast the Happy Couple
Saving a bottle of wedding day bubbly for your first, fifth, or even tenth anniversary is a fun way to keep relive wedding day memories. Have guests sign a bottle or two of your favorite wine or champagne as an unconventional way to pay tribute to the best day of your lives. Reading sweet messages from loved ones gives you even more to look forward to when you pop that cork years down the road!

Game Time
Who would have ever guessed the guest book could keep the party going long past the after party? Choose a Jenga set or even a puzzle for something out of the ordinary for guests to sign. Use either game for entertainment for guests during the reception to keep things fun, or better yet, pull them out for your first married game night!

Polaroid Scrapbook
We know that reception photo booths are here to stay, so guests will jump at the chance to have another opportunity to capture the big event. Encourage guests to strike a pose and then include a note on the finished polaroid; they can paste it in the book while you’re celebrating or do it yourself at a later date.

Watercolor Art
Speak to guests’ creative side by letting them put paint to paper! Part DIY, part avant-garde, have guests to share a note, and then add a splash of color by painting over their well wishes. Make sure to choose watercolors that coordinate with your wedding day hues; after the celebration, it becomes custom artwork for your home!

Style Me Pretty Contributor — Francesca Barger is a wedding enthusiast, freelance writer, marketer, and PR professional in the Midwest, where, in the last several years she’s worked with companies coast to coast. She’s more city slicker than small town girl, a bon vivant with a penchant for celebrating life’s little victories, like a dry cappuccino or a good hair day.

One look at Round Hill and it’s easy to see why it’s one of our fave spots on the planet. The gorgeous accommodations, the tasty cuisine, the breathtaking views… You guys, this place is awesome. But you know what’s better than listening to us go on and on about all of its amazing attributes? Hearing from a real bride who knows firsthand. Say hello to the insanely gorgeous Leanna, a bride who tied the knot in one crazy cool celebration, handsome groom and candlelit reception included. Scroll for an awesome Q&A sesh.

Q: HOW DID YOU DECIDE ON ROUND HILL AS YOUR WEDDING DESTINATION?

Long story short, we fell in love at first sight. Although, my family is originally from Jamaica, most of our guests would be travelling from abroad and we wanted a location that was convenient and showcased the best Jamaica has to offer. Prior to selecting a venue, we planned a 2-week trip driving all over Jamaica – from Montego Bay to the Blue Mountains – to visit venues we had been eyeing online. Round Hill was the second venue on our itinerary and we were blown away. Every inch of the resort is pristine — the pictures simply do not do the property justice. Everyone we met was warm and welcoming. Most importantly, we trusted they understood the vision we had for our special day.

Q: WERE YOU ANXIOUS ABOUT PLANNING A DESTINATION WEDDING, AND DID THE ROUND HILL TEAM HELP ALLEVIATE THAT? HOW?

Absolutely! We live in New York City. We knew planning from that far would be challenging and our tastes can be quite discerning (read: picky). The Round Hill team was very helpful in easing a lot of our concerns and answering every question we had along the way. They know the very best vendors on the island and were flexible in allowing us to use some vendors we had also sourced ourselves. We could rest assured that our wedding would be top notch while avoiding a lot of wasted time doing extensive research on our own.

Q: WHAT MADE THE PLANNING PROCESS EXTRA SPECIAL FOR YOU?

Focusing on the little details that made each guest feel special and showcasing our personality as a couple. 50 to 60 of our closest friends and family were travelling great distances, so many of the details I planned were to make their stay as seamless as possible and help them feel appreciated for sharing this weekend with us. Each welcome bag included a handwritten note, a few of my favourite Jamaican snacks, sunscreen, mints, heel protectors (for the ladies), bottled water, and a bottle of rum. We made sure paper fans were on hand during the outdoor ceremony and instead of standard place cards, we had each guests’ name laser cut out of wood as a keepsake.

Q: BRIEFLY TAKE US THROUGH YOUR WEDDING DAY.

That morning, we both woke up nervous and anxious, but we fully trusted Racquel, the Round Hill wedding planner, to deliver on everything we had planned. We opted not to have bridal parties to keep it simple. Instead, we invited family and a few close friends to share the afternoon getting ready with us at two separate villas. When the photographer arrived, the day moved pretty quickly from there. Running slightly behind schedule made for somewhat of a hurried first look and shortly after we were shuttled to the ceremony site, the Spa Lawn. Our absolute favourite part of the day had to be the ceremony – the setting sun and ocean backdrop, looking down the aisle to see your soon-to-be husband, and reciting your vows in front of everyone you love. It was nothing short of magical. Lots of hugging, champagne, and pictures ensued.

Another highlight of the day was seeing the reception site! As a detail-obsessed person, for months I tried to envision it all. Yet, I still wasn’t prepared for how beautifully it would all come together. Two days prior I had handed over two large suitcases of wedding décor to Racquel and, with no explanation at all, she had arranged everything exactly as I had envisioned.

Q: IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WOULD HAVE DONE DIFFERENTLY?

Not much. Everything turned out better than I could’ve imagined. If I had to choose one thing, I would’ve taken a few more deep breaths, spent less time worrying about the weather or my look and more time in the moment, soaking up every second with family and friends. I would’ve taken a few more bites of that delicious food too, lol.

Q: DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR PERSONS PLANNING A DESTINATION WEDDING?

Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and imagine your entire family and all your close friends spending quality time together in an immaculate resort on a beautiful island. A destination wedding can be a lot more to think through, but all the minutiae of wedding planning will be absolutely worth it. And of course, choosing to work with people that you trust with your life is essential in helping you enjoy every minute of it.

Whether you dream of an intimate celebration with just close friends and family or a grander affair with all of your loved ones, Round Hill can make it all happen… and beautifully. Plus, with six fabulous venue options, amazing wedding packages and a team of talented planners that know everything about pretty I do’s, you can rest easy knowing that your every detail is being taken care of – even from far away. Leanna and Mario’s wedding was a dream come true, and yours can be just as magical. Contact Round Hill today to start planning that wedding in paradise.

Photography: Adrian McDonald | Ceremony Venue: Round Hill Hotel and Villas | Reception Venue: Round Hill Hotel and Villas | Groom: Mario Zillner | Bride: Leanna Wilson

We all know that finding the right wedding gown is a little bit of a, well… process. From choosing the right designer to landing on an amazing fabric to finding a shape that works well for your body, it’s more than just a quick trip to the bridal store. But if you’re lost on where to even begin, we’re turning to the experts at Moonlight Bridal for a little dress 101 – and it all starts with finding that perfect silhouette.

BALL GOWN

Classic and always chic, ball gowns rule the dreams of any bride who wants to look and feel like a total princess – and with good reason. Because nothing says show-stopping entrance quite like a voluminous skirt and gorgeous detailing. But is a ball gown right for you? Traditionally, these gowns look amazing on basically any body type – from pear-shaped to athletic to a little bit busty. What we love about a ball gown is the defined waist – and the dramatic skirt (of course). When it comes to some of our faves, Moonlight Bridal always delivers – like our current obsession, the Tulle Skirt Bridal Gown from the Moonlight Collection. Think layers upon layers of soft tulle, a gorgeous lace hem AND spaghetti straps, so you can dance the night away without any worries.

A-LINE

Still want a defined waist, but not quite ready to take it to the princess level? That’s where the A-Line comes in to play. The pretty cousin to the ball gown, the A-Line gives a fullness to the skirt that’s not quite as voluminous, but still just as flattering. Which means it’s perfect for those of you who fall on the smaller side and are worried about too much fabric on your tiny frame. The A-Line is also fab for athletic figures, because it creates those curves for you. But honestly? This is a silhouette that can truly work for everyone. So check out the Risqué Full A-line Gown with Unlined Bodice with its skin-showing bodice and dreamy neckline and the The Strappy Illusion Back Wedding Dress, because you should never say no to lace detailing and the illusion back is everything.

MERMAID

For those of you who want to keep things classic, but add in a dash of sexy, we hear you – and a mermaid gown is definitely the way to go. We love that these styles enhance those curves you work so hard on, whether you’re plus-size, average or petite. Yes, this is the gown that is made for curvier figures and, bonus – it will definitely leave all of your guests talking with its dramatic design. Need proof? Check out the Strapless Mermaid Wedding Gown with its gorgeous sweetheart neckline and semi-cathedral train (hello, statement-maker). And the Vintage Mermaid Wedding Gown? You won’t be able to get over the crystal pearl beading.

FIT AND FLARE

If you want to show off those curves, but want that flare to start a little higher on your hips, then a fit and flare gown is the first place to start. Just as sexy and classic as a mermaid style, fit and flare gowns add a little more skirt to the dress, making it your best friend if you have slightly wider hips. We love this sophisticated style and especially love the Sexy Back Wedding Dress with Crepe Fit and Flare Skirt, which is one part classic bridal gown and one part sassy dress with an illusion bodice. Your curves will thank you for this one.

Ready to find that silhouette that is perfect for you and your body shape? Visit Moonlight Bridal to check out all of the gorgeous styles, from Ball Gowns to A-Line pretties to Mermaid stunners and fit and flare beauties. You’ll most definitely fall in love with all of the romantic detailing, like intricate lattice work, layers of lace and hand beading. Find a retailer near you now.

For couples planning their wedding, one of the most important (and fun!) components is the curation of the dinner menu. There might be preconceived notions about what might be served, but whether or not you’re a foodie or a less adventurous eater, it’s worth hearing from the world’s best chefs on what’s trending up.

If you’re looking for a guide (or even validation) on what cuisine to offer up on your wedding day, look no further.

Beautiful food + drink
Tiffany Pascua, executive pastry chef at Hotel Bel-Air, says the painted cake trend is still going strong and Hugo Bolanos, executive chef at the same property, expect to see curated beverage lists where presentation is part of the allure

Meatless options get beefed up
A common sight in Michelin starred restaurants is an uptick in Mother Nature’s harvest. “There is an increase in interest around plant and vegetable-based dishes, says Adam Smith, executive chef at Coworth Park, who makes it a point to source local produce for his dishes.

Alessandro Buffolino, head chef at Acanto, echoes this sentiment. “I expect to see more offering options like vegan cheese, meatless entrees or vegan frozen desserts.” But bland, dairy-free flavors are a thing of the past. Buffolino predicts chefs will surprise their customers with sweet and spice flavors, and “flavor injectors will boost the taste.

Spice up your life
“The focus on wellness shows no signs of abating,” says Henry Brosi, executive chef of The Dorchester. “We’re seeing a greater understanding from our guests [to the health benefits of] natural powders such as matcha, maca root, cacao and ground turmeric for their drinks and meals.” Expect to see a few tried and true favorite on the menu but be prepared for lesser-known ingredients says Henry.

For 2018, there will be a greater use of fungi in beverages such as coffee and tea like reishi and chaga. Chaga is known for its impressive anti-oxidant and anti-retroviral properties, and reishi for its anti-viral and anti-oxidant properties. We may also see a growing trend for algae and seaweed and gut-friendly food – Probiotic, prebiotic and anti-inflammatory ingredients.”

Doing it for the ‘Gram
Social media continues to play a strong role during wedding celebrations, but not all cameras will be glued on the couple. Guillaume Katola, executive chef at The Grill, says chefs will continue to create novel dishes that appeal to an online audience. For example, the gin and tonic souffle offered on The Grill’s menu during the summer. Overall, he believes dining will continue to put an emphasis on experiential with theatrical items such as tableside service for meat, fish and cocktails.

Japanese dining on the rise
In keeping with the health trend, Asian cooking techniques are trending up. Rather than using salt, chefs like Adam are opting for fermentation, picking and the use of soy to enhance flavors. This method of cooking is more sustainable than what we see in the West. Adam hopes this leads to the minimization of food waste and a trend in the use of overlooked ingredients such as offal.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Ximena N. Larkin is a writer and publicist. She lives in Chicago with her husband and dog.