The Bridechilla has helped thousands of couples plan their weddings. The podcast—hosted by comedian and virtual bridesmaid Aleisha McCormack—is hilarious and full of useful tips, tricks, and inspiration for modern brides who sometimes feel like they might need a chill pill every time they even think about planning their wedding.

“The show comes from the perspective of a layperson,” she says. “I learn with the audience and interview experts, Bridechilla graduates and anyone I think that can help the Bridechillas and Groomchillas.”

Read our interview with Aleisha below!

How have weddings changed in the past 10-20 years? What has that meant for couples going through the process of wedding planning?

“The stakes have been raised with social media and Pinterest. There’s just so much information and inspiration around, which is wonderful but for many couples, it can be downright overwhelming. I talk a lot about wedstress on the Bridechilla Podcast, something I don’t think our parents had to deal with as much….hey it was the 80s, puffy dress, white suit, done.

On the other hand, it’s been wonderful to see couples be empowered by the decisions that they make for their day. The cookie cutter concepts and traditions that don’t have meaning to them are being ditched and they, like Fleetwood Mac, are going their own way, which excited me.

Want a doughnut tower instead of a cake?
You got it.
Want to have you best friend become licensed to conduct a wedding and have him dressed as a character from Despicable Me?
Alrighty then!
Want to use readings from Jerry Seinfeld and Woody Allen in your wedding vows? (we did)
I support you!”

What is the best advice you can give to brides just getting started on their wedding journey?

“My mantra is ‘you should never fake smile on your wedding day.’ If there is a person on your guest list who doesn’t make you beam, ditch them.

Wedding planning is a team effort; you are a duo. I encourage my listeners to do something really obvious. Communicate. Before they book or buy anything, they should know what each other wants when it comes to weddings. What are their must-haves? Non-negotiables? What are details they just don’t care about? This way you’re in it together, and it’s not just one member of the team, running around and getting stressed because the other one isn’t interested.”

What is one tradition you love about weddings?

“Vows. I mean that’s why we’re there. To say meaningful things to each other, to make a commitment in front of our closest family and friends. Really when it comes down to it, you can ditch every other detail of a wedding because that is all that matters. You’ve met your fellow weirdo, you love them, and you want to share that with the people who mean the most to you. Don’t skip writing meaningful vows. Make them you. Add your voices and make those moments count.”

What is a totally archaic tradition that couples should ditch ASAP?

“Garters, however, can take a hike. There is something about a guy putting his head up his new wife’s skirt to remove a shiny piece of elasticated frill that makes me want to hurl.”

There are so many great episodes! For new listeners, what is one of your favorite recent episodes to check out?

“I’ve produced over 300 episodes of the show (all of which are available in the Bridechilla back catalogue) but one of my favourite episodes is #261- 18 Wedding Planning Truths – those wedding ‘ahh-haa’ moments where you realise that getting married requires wearing a lot of different hats. One of which is your inevitable move into becoming a Bridechilla politician, doing your best Frank and Claire Underwood to keep things ticking along but working towards a shared goal of planning the wedding that you want, not the wedding that everyone else wants! For many brides getting that is a Bridechilla breakthrough moment.”

For new episodes, subscribe on Acast and follow along on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook!

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Julia Hurwitz is a freelance writer and Marketing Manager based in New York City. Her interests include travel, global craft, healthy baking, entertaining and exploring the outdoors.

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Petit Bouquet

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Just two months before their big day, Jaecelle and Andrejs encountered every couple’s worst nightmare – a canceled venue. But rather than postpone, they worked with Big Sur Weddings to organize a new location that felt like Plan A all along. Set right on the cliffs of Rocky Point, they exchanged vows above the crashing waves and the incredible Greg Finck captured all the moments we can’t stop talking about.

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From Greg Finck… A wedding is sometimes exposed to natural randomness. Jaecelle and Andrejs learned it the hard way when their wedding venue was canceled just two months before their wedding day. The pouring rains in Big Sur during the winter broke a bridge and made their original venue inaccessible. That’s when Diane, from Big Sur Weddings, played her magic for an amazing Plan B.

Jaecelle and Andrejs, both from California, ended up getting married at Rocky Point, before an al fresco dinner in the Carmel Valley, where we could all enjoy an amazing sunset. Everything at this wedding was so beautiful. The couple designed their invitation suite by themselves, and what a result! And what to say about Jaecelle’s bespoke wedding dress? All of these details were a delight for a photographer’s eyes.

The day ended with an amazing sunset that I leveraged for some portraits in the wild grass before the couple headed to their own dinner table in the middle of their guests. Another beautiful wedding day in North California!

Photography: Greg Finck Photography | Videography: J Michael Media | Event Planning + Design: Big Sur Weddings | Floral Design: Gavita Flora | Ceremony: Rocky Point | Reception: Big Sur Weddings | Bride's Shoes: M.Gemi "Cammeo" Pumps | Catering: Feel Good Foods | Hair + Makeup: Blush Makeup Studio Monterey | Groom's Attire: High Society | Officiant: Jeffrey Gang (friend) | Bride's Dress: Shin Bu Bridal | Bride's Rings: Victoria Jewellers | Cocktails: Pour Girl | Dessert Station: Lady M Confections | Dinner Napkins: Adorn Company | Groom's Ring: Rebecca Overmann | Invitation Suite: Homemade by the couple | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Music: Kelly Productions | Reception Music: DJ Jason O'Neil | Rentals: Found Rental Co. | Rentals: Classic Party Rentals | Rentals: Mrs. Peasy | Rentals: Chic Event Rentals

We’ve all been at bridal showers where they serve champagne and rosé and while none of us are complaining about those options, it’s always fun to mix it up! A refreshing cocktail is the best tool for beating the heat at summer bridal showers. Seriously, is there a better way to keep your guests happy?! Try one of these unique cocktails.

Limoncello & Lavender Prosecco (Yields 5 servings)
For the syrup:
1 cup water
1T lavender flowers
1 cup honey
½ c granulated sugar

For the drink:
1 cup limoncello liquor
1 (750ml) bottle of prosecco
lavender sprigs for garnish
lemon slices for garnish

Make the lavender infused simple syrup by bringing the lavender flowers plus the water to a boil over medium heat. Next, add the honey and sugar and stir until it is dissolved. Set this aside and let it cool.

In a pitcher, combine the liquor, prosecco and simple syrup and stir. Pour over ice into each glass and garnish with a sprig of lavender and a lemon slice.

Frosé (Yields 5 servings)
1 (750ml) bottle of rosé
½ cup lemon Italian soda

Pour the rosé into ice cube trays and freeze overnight. Blend the “ice” cubes and lemon Italian soda in a blender until smooth. Serve immediately.

Blackberry Jalapeño Margarita (Yields 3 Servings)
For the syrup:
2 sliced jalapeños
1 cup fresh blackberries
1 cup honey
½ cup granulated sugar
1 cup water

For the drink:
¾ cup tequila
½ triple sec
½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
blackberries for garnish

Make the jalapeño-blackberry infused simple syrup by bringing the jalapeño slices, blackberries and water to a boil. Next, add the honey and sugar and stir until it is dissolved. Let the simple syrup cool.

Combine the tequila, triple sec, lime juice and simple syrup. Pour over ice and garnish with blackberries.

Add a fun upgrade to any of your signature cocktails with one of these:

Summer Infused Ice Cubes
Add your favorite berries or flowers to ice cube trays and then fill them with water. They will make any drink pretty!

Popsicles
Place an upside down popsicle into your cocktails for an extra treat! We suggest a blackberry or lime flavored popsicle for the margarita.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Carly Ellentuck is a freelance writer and blogger bride. She is the gal behind The Cozy Curator, a blog that features all things life+style. She lives in Hoboken, NJ with her fiancé. Carly is currently enjoying planning her modern boho-beach wedding that will take place on Long Beach Island this summer!

I want to bottle up this wedding and sprinkle it around a room full of Bride-to-be’s. Virtually, I sort of am, thanks to Jana Williams for sharing the stunning imagery with us. Whether this dress glues you to the screen or this tablescape gives you the chills, there’s sure to be a detail you’ll want to steal!

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From Jana Williams Photography… This winter wedding in Palm Beach, FL was a whimsical and chic event full of inspiration. Carolee and Ryan currently live and work in New York City. Palm Beach has been one of their favorite places to visit so these two wanted to take this chance to share this with their family and closet friends for a weekend getaway. Carolee wore here Liancarlo dress so elegantly and Ryan’s custom suite along with the bridesmaids Adrianna Papell’s shimmer elevated the event. To make the day even more special, the happy couple was married in the same little blue church Carolee’s grandparents had been married at years before! When Carolee and Ryan made their grand entrance into the reception it was like walking into a wonderland of white twinkle lights. It was truly a magical evening with such caring families!

Photography: Jana Williams Photography | Videographer: Kevin Borge Films | Wedding Dress: Liancarlo | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Adrianna Papell | Grooms Attire: Alan David Custom | String Quartet: Encore Chamber Players | MUA: Jennifer Cruz

Handmade details made this romantic wedding at Park Winters, captured by Anne-Claire Brun Photography. With the help of her family members, the Bride created the save the dates and invitations featuring beautiful calligraphy and pretty painted greenery, rustic mug favors, and agate stone name cards, and the Groom built the unique ceremony arch from scratch – a wooden teepee that was draped with leafy, green garlands. See more of the lovingly crafted details, right here.

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From Anne-Claire Brun Photography… Andrea and Greg got married in Park Winters last fall. It was a beautiful day amongst rainy ones. I was having a hard time and they were my last wedding of the season, but just like their weather, they were a peaceful and happy break amongst the dark clouds of my everyday life.

From the Bride… Greg and I met through mutual friends. I was in pharmacy school at the time, and some of my pharmacy school friends had a close friend named Joe that worked at BioMarin with Greg. Joe was moving down to San Diego and had a going away party. During that going away party, our groups of friends merged, and that’s when I first started talking to Greg. I had lost my phone that night, but Greg insisted on getting my phone number, and we began dating after.

One day about three months after my sister Wendy had given birth to my niece, Abigail, my two older sisters and I all decided to go on vacation to Hawaii. My sisters and I love Hawaii, and we used the excuse “Abigail’s first trip to Hawaii” to plan a trip to Honolulu. In my head, this was a fun family vacation with my sisters, brothers-in-law, niece, and boyfriend. I had no idea what was going to happen!

One of the days there, Greg planned a day for just the two of us to go scuba diving and spend the day together. We planned to meet up with my family for dinner after our scuba adventure. Scuba diving was amazing! I am usually not too scared of adventures like that, but with coordinating how to breath and learning to use all the new gear, including huge flippers, I got a little nervous, but Greg was with me the whole time. After scuba diving, we had a little time before dinner, and Greg suggested we grab some spam musubis and hang out at the beach. He drove me to Makapu’u beach. The trek down to the beach was not the easiest, but the beach was beautiful and quiet. There were a few surfers in the water, but not too many on the beach. We were laying down eating when Greg said, “I got you something at the market last night.” I honestly did not think anything of it because he’s always doing sweet things like that. It was a little box wrapped up in cute wrapping paper. I was opening the box while laying down in the sand and Greg said, “sit up and open it – it might fall out!” Unsure as to why the panic, I curiously sat up and inside the box, the gift was covered with tissue paper. I slowly removed the tissue paper and uncovered a ring holder, and then I saw the ring! I was in shock. I could not believe it. I immediately started crying, and then Greg asked me to marry him. The more I thought about how special he made it, proposing in Hawaii with my family there, the more I cried. Of course I said yes, and I immediately called my mom and dad to tell them the good news, as well as asking them questions about when and how he asked permission, because I had no idea. We celebrated at dinner of course. It really was the perfect trip.

Planning was fun and exciting, but it did not come without its stressful times. Once we toured Park Winters, we said we would think about it and look at more venues just to be sure, but we really didn’t because we kept thinking about how beautiful Park Winters was, and it turned out to be the perfect location for us.

Choosing the wedding dress was a little stressful. It is so hard to commit to one dress so early on. I picked out one dress by Rime Arodaky, but I felt like I was rushed into the decision because of the ordering time frame (you’re supposed to order eight months before your wedding). I kept doubting myself until I came across another dress that I fell in love with immediately, Frankie by Made With Love. I knew I had to make the decision to buy it, and I was so much happier that I did.

Everything was coming along according to schedule until the two weeks before the wedding, when the weather started to go a little crazy. The forecast for rain kept changing day to day, from 20% chance of rain to 70% chance of rain, then down to 50%, and so on. We had not planned for rain, but our day-of coordinator, Sara, was amazing and helped me figure out a rain plan just in case. But when the day came, there was no rain! And I could not have asked for a more perfect day.

I would say my wedding style was simple and natural. The Park Winters venue has so much natural greenery with ornate white buildings that I wanted everything to blend together, and it did. I wanted to keep the colors natural, so I chose a lot of greens with white accents. I like having things in the same color palette, but with different textures, so within my bouquet, I had a lot of different white and off-white flowers, mixed with grayish green foliage made of different herbs. My florist did an amazing job with the garlands for the table. They were exactly what I wanted, and they tied in perfectly with all the candles.

I think my favorite moment was right after the ceremony when Greg and I had time to talk to each other after saying I do. It was a special moment for us to just talk with one another, laugh, smile, take in the fact that we were actually married, and not be surrounded by everyone else. Oh, and the sparkler exit was pretty great, too.

My advice for couples planning their wedding now is this: At the end of the day, everything will work out. Your family and friends are there to celebrate you! What I remember most about my wedding was that everyone had such a good time – they danced, made new friends, and let us know how happy the were for us.

Photography: Anne-Claire Brun Photography | Coordination: Curated by Grace + White | Floral Design: The Pollen Mill | Wedding Dress: Made With Love Bridal | Cake: Let Them Eat Cake | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Asos | Hair and Makeup: Jasmine Abilar | Lighting: Lights Up Productions | Groom's Attire: Tailors' Keep | Officiant: Brooks Potteiger | Venue: Inn At Park Winters | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Music: BJP Entertainment | Photo Booth: Photobooth Bus | Rentals: Celebrations Party Rentals | Veil: Rime Arodaky

Sara Carboni Luxury Events and photographer, Marta Guenzi, dreamed up an itinerant wedding located in an ancient Sardinian village that has completely swept me off my feet. The day began with a ceremony at the cathedral, followed by sampling locally-sourced appetizers and drinks at stations nestled along the quaint streets. The party then participated in the traditional preparation of the wedding bread before enjoying an elegant al fresco dinner and finishing the evening with dancing on the beach. Yes, it is as amazing as it sounds.

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From Sara Carboni Luxury Events… There is always a good reason to choose Sardinia as a wedding destination. One of these is the medieval hamlet of Tratalias, enclosed in the territory of the Sulcis, in the south of this ancient land. It was built around the year 1000 and today is completely uninhabited. It features a cathedral and old peasants’, pilgrims’, and shepherds’ houses. The beautiful landscape and the romantic atmosphere give this location a very particular awesomeness with picturesque scenes.

Since I received the permission from the municipality of this village to organize real destination weddings there, I decided to organize an inspiration shoot together with the photographer Marta Guenzi, styling a wedding along the streets of this charming hamlet. In our vision, history meets nature, and together they create a real sensory experience featuring a taste of Sardinia – myrtle, rosemary, and laurel perfumes.

We imagined a weekend party, a special occasion to spend time and create unforgettable moments with the most special guests while breathing in an ancient and romantic atmosphere. We used the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria di Monserrato as the setting of the outdoor ceremony. Next came the aperitifs – the couple sipped on red wine while discovering the ancient medieval village and admiring objects handmade in the labs: hand-painted shawls, wooden furniture, pottery, and woven linens. As they wander, they come across beautiful corners we prepared for them to taste Sardinian local delights: pecorino cheese, olives, jams, wines, and myrtle liqueur. In order to fully experience local tradition, we the bridegrooms and their guests attended the preparation of the wedding bread called “su coccoi de sa sposa”, made by a woman wearing traditional Sardinian dress.

This was followed by an elegant candlelight dinner under the olive trees, tasting excellent Sardinian food. We thought about details able to take you back in time: a rich mise en place with silver cutlery and gold adorned plates that intentionally contrast with the natural and rustic elements like the wooden table. To harmonize everything, we chose light pastel colors for the floral decorations, using English Austin roses mixed with the olive leaves.

Finally, the party concluded at a white sand beach with dancing and relaxing corners with pillows.

Photography: Marta Guenzi Photographer | Cinematography: Gm Digital Video | Event Planning and Design: Sara Carboni | Floral Design: Valentina Scanu, Pianeta Fiore | Wedding Dress: Catherine Deane | Wedding Dress: Theia | Wedding Dress: Marco & Maria | Wedding Dress: Jenny Packham | Invitations: Sara Events | Church: Cathedral of Santa Maria in Monserrato, Tratalias | Hair and Makeup: Jumeaux | Favors: Laboratorio “Su muncaroi pintau” | Beach: Le Saline, Calasetta | Bridal Boutique: Donne Concept Store | Ceramic Lab: Laboratorio “Su muncaroi pintau” | Hair Accessories: Cécile Boccara Atelier | Hair Accessories: Deepa Gurnani | Hair Accessory: Alberta Ferretti | Medieval Village: Laboratorio “Su muncaroi pintau” | Modeal: Marinella Milia | Model (Bride): Valentina Mazara | Model (Groom): Carlo Manca | Municipality: Tratalias | Rentals: Next Allestimenti | Shawl: Laboratorio “Su muncaroi pintau” | Textile Lab: Laboratorio “Su muncaroi pintau” | Wine: Cantina Santadi

You would never know that rain forced this darling, Nantucket wedding by Stacie Shea Events indoors – it all looks so perfectly welcoming and planned. Zofia & Co. captured each warm, cozy, and inviting moment from the intimate ceremony in the living room of the Westmoor Farm‘s main house to the closely nestled table arrangement at dinner and the late-night dancing in the barn, all waiting for you in the Vault.

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From Stacie Shea Events… Izzy and Matt couldn’t think of a better, happier place to get married than Nantucket, MA. They chose Westmoor Farm, a beautiful little compound off the beaten path, to host their closest family and friends in cozy little cabins.

Originally, the ceremony was to be held outside on the main lawn under a beautiful arbor of greenery and ribbons. Mother nature had different plans, and moments before the intimate ceremony was to take place, the skies opened up, and we were forced inside. Plan B wasn’t so bad, though. Matt was beyond thrilled to marry his best friend in the living room of the main house under what may be the largest moose head in existence.

During cocktail hour, the couple escaped to the cobblestone streets of downtown Nantucket where they took photos at some of their favorite places on the island. You can see happiness written all over their faces!

The reception was candlelit, quaint, and perfect. Three tables nestled closely together and a dinner catered by Nantucket Catering Company was the perfect way to eat, drink, and be married. Centerpieces of white anemones, hydrangeas, and roses added that little bit of Nantucket flare.

After dinner, guests moved the party over to the barn where they danced the night away to the Timbukblues and DJ Billy Voss. While it never stopped raining, the big barn doors remained open, and that salty island air swirled throughout the room.

Photography: Zofia & Co. Photography | Event Planning: Stacie Shea Events | Floral Design: Soiree Floral | Wedding Dress: Sareh Nouri | Cake: Petticoat Row Bakery | Stationery: Parchment Nantucket | Shoes: Christian Dior | Bridesmaids' Dresses: BHLDN | Catering: Nantucket Catering Company | Hair and Makeup: Darya Salon | DJ: Billy Voss | Band: Timbukblues | Groom's Attire: J.Crew | Groomsmens' Attire: Brooks Brothers | Venue: Westmoor Farm | Earrings: Kate Spade | Rentals: Jen Shepherd

The vision for this New York City affair? Classic. Chic. Current. In other words, the kind of wedding that feels stylish today and 50 years from now. To pull off all of the above, Blake and Jacqueline brought on a vendor A-team, including Kelsey Combe Photography, Rachel Cho Floral Design, Kate & Co. Events, and Silver Arrow Band, just to name a few. They visited their favorite spots in the city and treated their guests to a ballroom celebration designed with all-out elegance. Sneak a peek below and find even more of the big day here in the gallery.

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From the bride… Blake and I met at a friend’s birthday party, where at the end of the night he asked me if I wanted to meet for a run the following weekend in Central Park. Luckily the planned run was replaced by drinks – but the park has been special to us both. Two years after we met, Blake got down on one knee in front of The Lake and asked me to marry him. We both knew we wanted to be married at the New York Athletic Club: it is such a classic New York venue and has the most amazing views of Central Park.

My vision for our wedding was classic and chic, but still current. I wanted our wedding to be simple and timeless so that when we look at the pictures in 50 years we will still be in love with how everything looked. This vision flowed from the simple monogrammed invitations, the tuxes, to the décor of the venue itself. I asked my bridesmaids to choose dresses in a neutral palette that they loved and would want to wear again. They all looked so beautiful on our wedding day and totally themselves, especially my sister/MOH in her beautiful boho dress with a baby’s breath flower crown, thanks to Rachel Cho.

I struggled to find a dress because I really wanted something that reflected my style: simple and practical. It was surprisingly hard to find something without lace or beading. I immediately loved the understated yet still elegant Willowby Watters dress. Jaclyn Jordan made me THE most amazing bolero to wear over it. The two fit together so perfectly; I loved how classic the long sleeves, pearl buttons, and fitted bodice looked over my more modern dress. My veil was borrowed from my bridesmaid and former roommate who I lived with for 5 years – it meant so much to me to have something of hers to wear on my special day. The giant all tulip bouquet completed the look; it was beautiful, simple and chic, I wish I could still carry it with me everywhere. I was initially wary of having my tattoo showing. It is in honor of my late grandmother, and having her favorite phrase “be always kind and true” on display, I felt like she was with me all day.

The city itself played a major part in our wedding. The boys took the subway from our apartment in their tuxes and bought Gatorade (which exploded on the groom) from a hot dog vendor on the street. My parents named me after Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and I grew up in Connecticut, often traveling into the city through Grand Central. My mom would always tell me how much she and my dad admired Jackie Kennedy, and that it was she who had taken the initiative to have the ceiling of this amazing terminal restored. One of my first requests for Kelsey was that we take pictures in Grand Central, and it was truly one of my favorite parts of the day. I will treasure those pictures for the rest of my life.

While the NYAC is incredibly beautiful and has amazing character, a lot of its atmosphere is very dark and masculine. I worked with Rachel and her team to create a floral look to soften the dark paneling in the rooms that we were in. For the ceremony, we had two amazing flowering branch arrangements which framed my aunt and uncle, who married us. The beautiful sign that my sister-in-law’s mother made us for the ceremony program carried our simple theme and is now hanging in our living room! For the centerpieces, low all white flowers with plenty of candles including floating votives showed off the reception room’s character while brightening the ancient carved wood ceiling. The head table had low lush arrangements with no space between them creating a runner look.

Two pieces of advice to brides!

1. Hire a day-of coordinator (or full-time planner) for your own peace of mind. Hiring Kate was one of the best decisions we made. Kate made the day seamless and was a dream to work with – we are forever grateful that we were fully able to enjoy our day because of her.

2. Get hair extensions – but seriously… I could not be happier with the way my hair looked on my wedding day. I have thin hair so the clip-in extensions from RPZL gave me body, length and most importantly held my style incredibly well. Also, a good spray tan is a girl’s best friend!

Photography: Kelsey Combe Photography | Event Planning: Kate & Co Events | Floral Design: Rachel Cho Floral Design | Invitations: Shine Wedding Invitations | Shoes: Jason Ascher | Makeup: Rouge NY | Hair: Glamsquad | Band: Silver Arrow Band | Tuxedos : The Black Tux | Venue: New York Athletic Club | Bolero: Jaclyn Jordan New York | Bridal Salon: Bliss Bridal | Dress Designer: Willowby by Watters | Extensions: RPZL | Photo Booth: Hipstr Photobooth | Spray Tan: Gotham Glow

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If you are going to have a traditional New Orleans wedding, you better believe a second line parade for the new Mr. and Mrs. is in order. And that is only the beginning of this classic meets modern celebration held at the family’s estate and crafted by Everly. Also on the docket, not one but 3 insanely gorgeous dresses dawned by the fashion blogger Bride. Take a peek at the full celebration captured by Elisa Bricker right here.

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From the Photographer… Fashion blogger and bride, Bridget Ryan, chose to get married in her historic home town and celebrated her wedding at the family home. Their wedding was steeped in tradition, but her personal style is modern and fresh, so blending tradition and bringing in modern touches was important. Her husband and his family are French, so their wedding was also a blend of cultural tradition, and friends from around the world. They married these styles and traditions in a graceful ceremony at the church where she grew up and celebrated their wedding in the back hard of her family’s private estate. Of course, since it was a New Orleans wedding there were local traditions such as a king cake for guests in their welcome bags, beads galore, and a second line to celebrate the new couple!

Photography: Elisa Bricker | Videography: Khoi Pham | Wedding Planner: Everly Event Planning & Design | Floral Design: Fat Cat Flowers, LLC | Cake: Nikki's Frosted Fantasies | Invitations: Scriptura | Reception Venue: Private Estate | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Bella Bridesmaid | Makeup: Belladona | Hair: Amber Buxton | Calligraphy: Sterling Calligraphy | Band: Sam Hill Entertainment | Dress Design: Nardos Design, Dallas Texas | Flower Girl Dresses: Banbury Cross

Finding a healthy lifestyle that works for both you and the guy in your life can be a challenge for some. Many men hear “nutrition” and envision a strict diet of raw vegetables and water—definitely not recommended by this dietitian!

With a balanced approach to nutrition, including mindful indulgences, you can help your guy be the healthiest version of himself.

Keep the Carbs, but Make it Complex
Many diet trends focus on low carb, high protein regimens. While this might sound enticing for meat lovers, these diets are rarely sustainable and often forgo fiber, a nutrient most Americans lack. Fiber’s role in a healthy diet includes staying fuller for longer, promoting a healthy GI system, and helping transport fat and cholesterol out of the body. Sounds pretty good, right?

Men should aim for around 38 grams of fiber each day. To include more fiber-rich foods into the daily diet look to whole grain foods. For many guys, this might be swapping the white burger bun for a 100% whole grain bun or 100% whole grain English muffin, or skipping the french fries and enjoying a baked potato (skin included) for added fiber and less fat. Luckily, many restaurant flavors can easily be recreated into healthy options at home. Think: whole grain pasta, whole grain or sprouted grain pizza crust, whole corn or whole grain tortillas, or using brown rice for Asian dishes or taco bowls.

Make it Meatless (Sometimes)
Protein is an important nutrient, but most people are consuming more than enough. Meat and animal sources of protein do provide some important nutrients, but overeating red meat can mean too much saturated fat and potential cardiovascular risks. Instead, try to cut back on red meat portions throughout the week and give a few plant-based proteins a chance. Options like beans, nuts, or seeds are rich sources of protein and can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. Try using black beans for a plant-based burger, or sautee them with onions and peppers in place of ground meat in tacos or fajitas. Nuts are an easy, on-the-go snack filled with fiber and protein. Just stick with around ¼ cup per serving to keep calories in check.

While a 100% plant-based routine may not be realistic, including other animal sources of protein will also help support a healthy diet. Try to choose fish 2-3 times per week to incorporate anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids and lean sources of protein. Or, swap out red meats for leaner chicken sausage or turkey meatballs.

Avoid the “All or Nothing” Approach
The difference between building lifelong healthy habits versus fad diets often lies with sustainability. Hyper restricted diets usually lead to eventual burnout, frustration, and overeating. Instead of the “all or nothing” approach, choose balanced meals most of the time, but include 2-3 “treats” each week, too. For most meals, stick to a formula of at least ½ the plate as non-starchy vegetables, ¼ of the plate a lean protein and the other ¼ of the plate a whole grain. Then when you or your guy truly want to enjoy something like ice cream, truffle fries, or pancakes, make them extra special by going out for these foods. Keeping the home as a “health haven” will not only build healthy habits but also make those special treats something to really savor.

Many men find these treats are best saved for enjoying a steakhouse favorite, grabbing pizza with coworkers, or trying a new burger joint. Whatever the case, trying to incorporate vegetables as starters during these meals will not only increase nutrients but also helps fill up with fiber and less calories before the main meal arrives. The key is to mindfully enjoy these indulgences, but stick to healthy foods throughout the majority of the week.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Amanda Baker Lemein, MS, RD, LDN, is a Registered Dietitian and freelance writer from Chicago. She works in private practice, helping both pediatric and adult clients find healthy lifestyles that work for a variety of nutrition needs.

If you’re asked to give a speech at a couple’s wedding, celebrate! It’s an honor to be given such an important role and the gesture symbolizes a bond between you and the pair. In order to keep the good vibes going and avoid the stress, we collected insight from the experts on what it takes to make a killer toast. Here’s your guide.

Tell a story.
“Take your audience on a journey,” says Holly Blum, speechwriter and owner of A Speech To Remember. “Create a framework for the speech with a clear beginning, middle, and end.” The contents should balance between heartfelt sentiments and laughs.

Need inspiration? Take a trip down memory lane, says Holly. Include moments in your speech that showcase your relationship with the couple, and only share anecdotes that evoke emotions and are relatable to everyone in the room. Most importantly “be yourself and keep it tasteful,” adds Holly.

Practice makes perfect.
Finalize your speech and start practicing at least one week before the big day. “The best speeches are rarely delivered without careful preparation and rehearsal,” says Holly. Begin by reciting your speech aloud in front of the mirror so you can see your facial expressions and hand gestures. Graduate to rehearsing in front of a few trusted friends to get a better feel for what works and what needs adjustments.

Stay sober.
It might be nerve-wracking to get up in front of a large crowd to deliver the speech, but avoid the temptation of numbing your jitters with alcohol. “The toast-giver should remain sober to ensure a clear, articulate and non-embarrassing speech,” says Jillian Stevens, director of events and catering for the Waldorf Astoria in Chicago. Jillian has worked more than 500 weddings and stresses the importance of keeping it light. “Guests want stories that are interesting and lighthearted. Avoid depressing tear jerkers.”

A little theatrics goes a long way.
Entertain the audience and punch up your speech with a prop that drives home what’s being said in your toast. “One father-of-the-bride had a long scroll of paper he took from his vest to reference a few ‘suggestions’ for his son-in-law,” says Christine Picerno, event sales manager at Tigerlily Events. “The guests went wild with laughter.”

Watch the clock.
And perhaps most importantly, keep your speech short in order to avoid losing the crowd. “Good speeches have a five-minute time limit,” points out Holly. “No exceptions.”Leave guests wanting more, not wishing for less. Time yourself in practice to ensure you have a good sense of what five minutes (or less!) feels like.

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

Sally Pinera and Lavenders Flowers have officially proven that maximalism should totally be a thing. Case in point – this bridal shoot embracing all the flowers, all the fashion, and all the summer hues with lilac and peach taking center stage. They ditched the “less is more” mentality for a case study in bountiful beauty, and the results are everything your Pinterest boards have been missing.

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From Sally Pinera… Inspired by the delicacy of petals and fresh summer, this shoot was centralized around lilac and peach tones. Partnered with Lavenders Flowers, we were able to create a summer inspiration that still had lingering spring notes.

This past year, minimalism has been a big theme, but we explored maximalism. With a handmade custom Gossamer gown with impeccable beading and floral embellishments, we paired this look with gorgeous Oscar De La Renta sculptural floral earrings in a beautiful pink tone – absolute bridal maximalism perfection! With peach tones, lilacs, soft blushes, butter yellows, and spring greens, Lavenders Flowers created dreamy floralscapes and a hanging installment over the table. The dinner setting was paired with lilac candles, Notary Ceramics candles, Ark dinnerware, and an amazing sheer lilac toned table runner by Tono and Co. Which was placed over the neutral peach linen by La Tavola to create a multi-dimensional and color blocking effect.

Lighthearted, whimsical, romantic… We say yes to maximalism done tastefully!

Photography: Sally Pinera | Floral Design: Lavenders Flowers | Gown: Gossamer | Invitations: Refine Studio | Hair + Makeup: Tammy Yi Makeup | Candle Holder: Notary Ceramics | Dinnerware: The Ark Event Rentals | Earrings: Oscar De La Renta | Local Garden Rose: Grace Rose Farm | Peach Linen: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Found Rental Co. | Ribbons + Silk: Tono Co | Tabletop Overall : Tono Co

Located on a stunning, family-owned ranch, this outdoor wedding inspiration session enhanced the natural beauty of the venue using unique design elements for a rugged, romantic look. Coco Fleur Events created a captivating backdrop for the couple’s nuptials, wrapping oak trees with pretty, blooming garlands. For the reception, the breathtaking centerpiece was suspended from the same tree – a unique, ethereal statement piece. Melanie Julian Photography captured the gorgeous shoot, and it’s all waiting for you here.

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From Liz Ise of Chancey Charm Wedding Planning and Design… Every element of this shoot was pure magic. Drawing inspiration from the muted tones and drought-ridden fields that scatter throughout southern California, we created this stunning al fresco wedding editorial in northern Texas. Many people wouldn’t believe that north Texas and southern California share many similar landscapes, but the soft rolling hills, natural grasses, and endless evening sun almost perfectly match. We wanted to bring the trends the West Coast has been seeing to the heart of Texas.

Letting the natural beauty of your venue speak for itself is the best way to simplify the design process. Don’t force anything, but allow the colors you choose to be accents to the surroundings. Flying V Ranch, with its sprawling fields and vintage charm, was the perfect setting for this rugged, romantic shoot. The golden hour light filled every corner of the family-owned ranch.

Operated by the sweetest mother-daughter duo, Flying V Ranch is a hidden gem just outside of Fort Worth, Texas. Originally a cattle auction barn, the interior space brings your white shiplap dreams to life. Using her interior design background, Page Warner designed every element on the property to cohesively blend the vintage charm Texas is known for with modern, architectural elements. It’s as if “Fixer Upper” and Restoration Hardware came together to create the perfect background for your wedding day. The lands that surround the barn and ceremony space make you feel as if you’re in your own private piece of southern paradise. You’ll immediately feel at home and completely comfortable in each space.

Using the natural elements of the ranch as inspiration, we decided to take each portion of the wedding outdoors. Three large oak trees featuring crystal chandeliers created the most beautiful focal point for the ceremony. To not distract from the strength and unity of these entwined trees, Lisa Stiles of Coco Fleur Events wrapped lush florals and natural greenery amongst the branches to bring a softness to the space. Vintage pieces and handmade church pews were simple accents to complete the look while letting the natural scenery speak for itself. Our goal was for guests to feel the intimacy of the space as soon as they walked onto the property.

Cocktail hour was brought to the barn’s patio, outfitted with vintage barrels and hay bales which created the perfect cocktail tables for the space. Flying V Ranch has repurposed so many materials from the original barn, and these unique pieces make this space unlike any other in the area. You can feel this history and family roots in each piece. This space, with wild grassland and cattle grazing around the perimeter, is a casual and rugged backdrop perfect for a post-ceremony cocktail.

For the reception, we couldn’t help but think outside the box… Or should we say barn Incorporating the same winding floral arrangements as the ceremony space, we showcased the natural landscape again by hanging our arrangement above the wood farm reception table. Lush blooms and weathered driftwood encapsulated the muted and organic color palette perfectly. Our goal was to create a complete wow moment for guests as they walk into the reception area. With the blooms hanging overhead, it allowed guests to easily chat while seated at the table. A romantic silk runner accented with vintage brass candle sticks created movement with every slight, passing spring breeze. Each guest had a hand-calligraphed place card on natural driftwood greeting them as they took their seat.

Along with showcasing the natural beauty of the ranch, we wanted to sprinkle in a few modern touches. Just because you want to have an outdoor and natural wedding doesn’t mean you have to skimp on modern trends and materials! The ghost chairs were a perfect complement to the rustic elements and allowed that golden light to shine right through. They brought just enough modernity to this design without being distracting.

We could feel Brittany and Brandon’s genuine passion for each other with every stolen kiss and sweet caress. This Sarah Seven gown from the a&bé bridal shop in Dallas was absolutely stunning on our Bride and captured the effortless, organic sexiness that the overall shoot evoked. Brandon couldn’t keep his eyes off his girl, and we can totally see why!

Photography: Melanie Julian Photography | Event Design: Chancey Charm | Floral Design: Coco Fleur Events | Wedding Dress: Sarah Seven | Cake: HoneyLove Cakery | Ring: Trumpet & Horn | Hair and Makeup: Q Makeup & Hair Artistry | Groom's Attire: Culwell & Son | Venue: Flying V Ranch | Bridal Boutique: a&be bridal shop | Paper Goods: Pink Champagne Paper | Rentals and China: Posh Couture Rentals

Before you dive into all the pretty of this day captured by Birds Of A Feather Photography, heed the Bride’s wise advice: Don’t sweat the small stuff, and listen to what makes you truly happy. Because before all of those lovely little details fall into place, comes the love that made your Big Day a reality. Wedding Kate guided these two on their journey and the results? Ridiculously beautiful.

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From Birds Of A Feather Photography… Alta & Matt’s wedding took place at two different (and stunning) private residences in Santa Barbara. It was timeless and chic but with an effortless coastal vibe that felt perfectly at home in Santa Barbara. Alta and Matt are beautiful inside and so fun and easy to work with. From the bride… Don’t sweat the small stuff, and listen to what makes you truly happy. You also don’t have to follow any “rules”. It’s your wedding, and hopefully you only have once chance to get it right, so just do yourself a favor and do what makes you two feel joy. Matt and I joke about how we wish we could get married every year, just so we would have excuse to bring everyone we love back together again. The sense of happiness and fulfillment one feels on their wedding day is precious. Remember to savor all the moments, and tell those around you that you love and appreciate them. We worked with a fabulous team of vendors and this event was a dream come true.

Photography: Birds of a Feather | Floral Design: ella & louie | Wedding Dress: Alice & Olivia | Catering: RoomForty | Hair and Makeup: Jose Eber Salon | Entertainment: Dart Collective | Venue: Private Residence | Ceremony Rentals: Town And Country Rentals | Ceremony Rentals: Revelry Event Designers | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Paper Goods: Prim & Pixie | Planning + Coordination: Wedding Kate | Reception Rentals: Classic Party Rentals | Reception Rentals: My Lovely Events

With sweeping views of the city where they fell in love and where they call home, this couple’s engagement photos taken in the crown of Chicago’s Tribune Tower are absolutely breathtaking.  Clary Pfeiffer Photography captured these two lovebirds as they danced and spun around, and we can’t get enough of their joyful expressions… or the beautiful movement of Torie’s gorg ruffled skirt.

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From Clary Pfeiffer Photography… Torie and Amarit’s entire session was in the crown of The Chicago Tribune Tower, high above the city, looking over the river and white gleaming skyscrapers. This perspective of Chicago is breathtaking and one of my favorite locations ever for a city session! Being so high up in the sky felt magical. One moment I loved is The Wrigley Building’s clock peeking through while Amarit spun Torie in her gorgeous ruffled skirt.

Torie is wearing an A.L.C. top, a ruffled skirt from Alice and Olivia, and pumps from Pour La Victoire. Her engagement ring and wedding band were designed with help from Seth Brennecke at Diamond Consultants. Amarit is wearing a three piece suit from Suitsupply with shoes from To Boot New York. His watch is his wedding gift from Torie, a vintage Rolex from the year he was born.

From the Groom… Despite growing up just a few blocks from one another and attending rival high schools in downtown Chicago, Torie and I never met until after college when we both began working for Lettuce Entertain You in 2011. We became great friends almost immediately, and there was always a distinct gravity in our relationship, although it took over 2 years before we both realized what was really going on. Our close friends tell us they always knew we had strong chemistry, but we were both oblivious to the fact that we were falling in love with one another.

Three years later, I asked Torie to marry me in New York where I took her on our first date. Our engagement photos were taken at the beautiful Tribune Tower, an historic Chicago landmark completed in 1925. Although we both grew up a few blocks from the building and spent many years working just down the street, it was our first time up in the famous “crown” of the tower – looking down on the Chicago river and the very building in which we met six years earlier.

Photography: Clary Pfeiffer Photography | Shoes: To Boot NY | Jewelry: Chicago Diamond Consultants | Suit: Suitsupply | Location: Chicago Tribune | Pumps: Pour La Victorie | Skirt: Alice & Olivia | Top: ALC

For a couple who honeymooned on the Italian coastline, a trip back to that gorgeous corner of the world was a must. So to celebrate their first anniversary, they did just that and this time had a photographer in tow to capture all the special moments. Fall in love with the stunning beauty of the Amalfi Riviera and this adorable couple through the lens of Julia Kaptelova.

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From the Mrs… Spending our honeymoon on Capry island, we made promise to each other to return to Amalfi coast one year later to celebrate our first anniversary. We planned our route between little towns of Amalfitano riviera – Sorrento, Positano, Ravello and Amalfi – where we’ve chosen a historical hotel, which was established in the 19th century at the building that used to be women’s monastery in the past. Located on a cliff with a panoramic view over the Salerno bay, surrounded by amazing gardens this place was perfect to take a chance to capture our walk between blooming flowers and lemon trees. In the evening we headed to Ravello, incredibly beautiful commune located nearby to enjoy it’s old streets and fascinating views. We desired to keep a part of this beauty and serenity not only in our memories, but on pictures, so the main present for our anniversary were photographs made by Julia, who captured picturesque landscapes and moments of our complete happiness. Now we are looking forward to greet our baby into this world and already making plans where to go with our family of three and as a tradition wondering about another photo shooting.

Photography: Julia Kaptelova Photography | Hotel: Monastero Santa Rosa | Filmlab: Homefilmlab

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When you work as a stylist for West Elm, it’s pretty much a given that your wedding is going to be absolute, pure gorgeousness. Hello, tablescape of my dreams! This beauty Bride put her creative brains behind all the lovely, with the help of Petal & Oak, who layered in those out-of-this-world blooms. A. J. Dunlap Photography worked their magic behind the lens for a gallery chock-full of inspiration.

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From A. J. Dunlap Photography… This bride works as a stylist for West Elm, and used her design knowledge to create the most breathtaking wedding reception. She combined simple greenery with hues of pink, whites and gold to create luscious tablescapes that were beyond gorgeous. Her hanging greenery above her “T” style head table was breathtaking. Aside from the beautiful reception decor, we fell in love with her all lace, deep v wedding gown and solid greenery bouquet. Set against the rustic background of her venue and it was a perfect wedding.

Photography: A.J. Dunlap Photography | Floral Design: Petal & Oak | Gown: Traditions By Anna | Cake: Cinda's Creative Cakes | Catering: Triangle Catering | Hair & Makeup: Wink Hair & Makeup | Band: The Shakedown | Ceremony & Reception: The Cotton Room | Rentals: CE Rentals | Second Photographer: Kelsey Nelson

When Kim and Shiloh tied the knot five years ago, it wasn’t exactly their dream wedding. Fast forward to their life four kiddos later, and Kim decided it was high time for a vow renewal that felt a bit more “them.” She enlisted the help of some of her amazing colleagues in the wedding industry, including BBJ Linens, and surprised Shiloh with a celebration set in coastal Rhode Island. It was a day chock-full of special moments, including the couple’s four boys who came along to cheer on mom and dad.

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From the bride, Kim.. When my husband and I were first wed, we had no budget, threw a wedding together very quickly, and it wasn’t ideal. Since then, I entered the wedding industry as a wedding photographer and I realized what I would have done differently if I had the chance to do it all over. That thought gave me an idea. Since our five year anniversary was coming up I decided to enlist my favorite vendors and surprise my husband Shiloh with a vow renewal.

We planned for months, I enlisted the help of my dear friends Mollie + Julianna along with my photographer friends Kearsten + Tiffany. Together we planned out every little detail. I knew I had to host with my favorite Events Team – Longwood. We went back and forth between Belle Mer and Newport Beach House but since I’m such a beach girl at heart we went with Newport Beach House.

Shiloh was completely surprised and soaked up every moment of it. I even had our four boys read a few scripture verses during the vow renewal. I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. I can’t wait to hang these photos on my walls for years to come. I hope to throw an even bigger vow renewal for our 10 years and this time includes our family and friends.

Photography: Tiffany Von Photography | Photography: Kearsten Taylor | Videography: Ayan 5 Media | Wedding Planning: The Newport Bride | Wedding Planning: Mollie Marrocco Events | Floral Design: Bloom Floral Designs | Wedding Dress: Velace Bridal | Cake: Wingate's Cake Design | Stationery: The Paper Perfectionist | Hair + Makeup: Tiffany Cantin Hair and Makeup Artist | Venue: Newport Beach House: A Longwood Venue | Decor: Ryan Designs | Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: New England Country Rentals

Dreamy doesn’t even begin to describe this lovefest set in Santa Ynez. Of course, it comes as no surprise when the amazing Jose Villa is behind the lens, with Janet Villa rocking her talents on hair and makeup. Take a peek into Dani and Aaron’s photo session and consider this your virtual escape to the mountains of California.

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Photography: Jose Villa Photography | Hair + Makeup: Janet Villa

For blogger Rachel Parcell of Pink Peonies, a pretty pink office is exactly where we imagine her spending her days. It’s a seamless extension of her brand but this blushing space has a definite edge. With a marble floor pattern that slays to a pop o’ fuchsia rug, tour this oh so girly HQ perfectly captured by Nicole Gerulat.

From Rachel… I would say my personal style is feminine and classic with a little edge, and my office space completely embodies that. It’s a very feminine space (hence the pink), but the marble flooring and black accents give it the right about of edge.

There’s something so timeless and classic about a marble floor. Originally, I was going to lay the marble in a checkerboard pattern, but when I started playing around with the sample pieces, it looked plain. I decided I wanted a more intricate and unique pattern, so I started looking for inspiration to draw from. My floor was inspired by one of my favorite designers, Kelly Wearstler, and her entryway, which was featured here.

The very first item I selected for this room (aside from the flooring) was the fuchsia pink rug from Lulu & Georgia.  I designed the entire room around the rug, and I love the bold statement it adds to the space. When I’m decorating a feminine space, I always love to add a few pops of fuchsia pink. It instantly adds so much to the color palette of the space.

Photography: Nicole Gerulat | Office: Rachel Parcell