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Essentials For a Perfectly Cozy Weekend

Let me take a guess… you’re settled in on the couch, covered in blankets and barely moving. Still stuffed from all that turkey (and potatoes and pie), this is the sort of situation that cozy weekends at home were made for. Take advantage of all this solid sofa time and add all the snuggly and cozy must-haves to your wedding registry list – you’ll be wanting these items for winters to come. PS. We’ve included a recipe for Nutella Hot Cocoa that is NOT to be missed.

Cozy Weekend Essentials
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Cozy Weekend Essentials
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The Best Hot Chocolate You’ve Ever Tasted

Nutella Hot Chocolate
prep time
cook time
total time
Serves 0Ingredients
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 3-4 Tbsp. nutella, depending on how chocolatey you like it
  • 1/8 tsp. vanilla
Instructions
  1. Place 1/2 cup of the milk and Nutella in a small saucepan over medium heat and whisk until incorporated.
  2. Stir in vanilla.
  3. Add remaining milk, turn heat up slightly and whisk constantly until warmed through.
  4. Pour into mug and top with your choice of delicious toppings!
  5. P.S. Whipped cream, mini marshmallows and chocolate shavings are always a good idea.

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The Smart Bride + Groom’s Guide to Wedding Registries

SMP’s Wedding Registry ABCs | Unique Wedding Registry Ideas | 10 Must-Have Registry Items

Recipe: Lark & Linen

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This is What Rory Gilmore Would Wear Down the Aisle

I’ll give you one good guess what we’ll be doing this Black Friday (hint: it doesn’t involve any shopping). We’ll be camped out in front of our TVs binge-watching “Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life.” That, and dreaming up Rory Gilmore’s wedding with the help of Floravere. Though we don’t know the groom — will it be Dean, Jess or Logan? — we do know that Rory’s wedding would be as beautiful and charming as the Stars Hollow native herself.

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The Dress

Named for Rory Gilmore herself, Floravere’s R. Gilmore dress is all about a charming twist on tradition. The curve-hugging strapless gown features individually embroidered, hand-sewn flowers for a subtly fresh texture on a classic, elegant silhouette. Timeless and traditional yet charming and sassy, this dress fits Rory to a pretty T.

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The Venue

Is this really even a question? The Dragonfly Inn is the only choice for a Gilmore Girl’s wedding.

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The Bouquet

Simple, but not boring, Rory’s bouquet will be a classic twist on the traditional white nosegay with a hint of whimsy and romance. We’re thinking garden roses, clematis and accents of greenery.

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The Style

If Emily Gilmore is involved (and you know she will be), Rory’s big day won’t be a casual affair featuring pizza and junk food. Instead, it’ll be a classic garden wedding in the inn’s backyard surrounded by loved ones and Stars Hollow friends (we see you Miss Patty).

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Wedding Dress: Floravere

A Summer Wedding Awash in Lavender + Blush

Every now and then a wedding comes along that’s nearly impossible to curate because every last image is utter perfection. That’s exactly the case for this summertime ranch affair designed by CCL Weddings & Events with floral pretties from Peony & Plum. We’re officially spending this Black Friday dreaming in shades of lavender and blush, and you can find even more captured by Esther Sun in the gallery and The Cub Team’s film below.

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[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/184556025 600 338]

From the Bride…We had a vision from the beginning of a natural outdoor vineyard wedding in California awash in lavender and blush colors. Other than that, we had a lot of concepts floating around in our minds, and our planner, Cat Leo of CCL Weddings and Events, worked really hard with us to narrow the ideas down to something we could execute. We think it really came together beautifully in the end, from the flowers to the candles to the signage!

Venue: We knew that our families—Sejin is from Seoul, and Mike is from Chicago—and our friends would be coming from all over the place, so California just made a lot of sense for us as a gathering place. We also fell in love with the perfect weather and the beautiful natural settings that are everywhere in the state. We took a trip out to California last summer and looked at a handful of very nice venues, but nothing really stood out to us. That same weekend, we went to our friends’ wedding at Malibu Rocky Oaks in the Santa Monica mountains, and it just hit us that this was the perfect place to get married. The sun setting over the mountains, surrounded by grape vines, it was everything we wanted but couldn’t exactly articulate. Cat had told us about Saddlerock Ranch and Vineyards, and we tried to see the venue while we were in the area, but we weren’t able to get in. So we took a leap of faith and booked the venue without actually seeing it in-person, and it was everything we could have hoped for!

Favorite moments: Definitely walking down the aisle with our moms. We wanted to honor our moms for shaping us into the people that we are today, and it just felt really natural that we would walk down the aisle with them. And we were so lucky because the sun was shining and the weather was amazing, and when the sun set and the café lights lit up the dance floor and the dining area it was perfection!

Advice for other couples: Don’t procrastinate, share the load equally with your partner, and listen to your planner!

Photography: Esther Sun Photography | Cinematography: The Cub Team | Event Planning: CCL Weddings & Events | Floral Design: Peony & Plum | Wedding Dress: Galia Lahav | Cake: M Cakes Sweets | Bride's Shoes: Tribut Ives Saint Laurent | Catering: Hungry Bear | Hair + Makeup: Kohnur | DJ: All The Above Events | Venue: Saddlerock Ranch | Desserts: Pazzo Gelato | Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Photo Booth: Photo Booth Supply Co | Rentals: borrowed BLU | Rentals: Modest Peach

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
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These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
The 5 Reasons You Should Be Designing with White

If you talk to an interior designer, they usually have at least 2 favorite white paints tucked in their back pocket. These are their go-to’s and with good reason. White is as timeless as can be and provides a stunning backdrop, no matter your style. It’s like liquid gold in the color (or colorless) department. Just ask Kendall Simmons. She’s sharing 5 reasons why you should most certainly be designing with white.

White amplifies the amount of natural light in your room. White, specifically white paint, multiplies natural light exponentially. If your home is feeling a little dim or dreary, break out the white paint and get busy lightening up! White drapery can have a similar effect, by making your windows feel larger and more open.

Designer Tip: I have two tried and true white paint colors that can do no wrong.

  • My favorite soft, warm white is Benjamin Moore White Dove OC-17.
  •  My favorite crisp, cool white is Sherwin Williams SW 7004. The white throughout this home is Benjamin Moore White Dove OC-17.

White creates the perfect backdrop to accentuate your artwork. Hanging your art on a crisp white wall brings out the best in it, no matter what the medium. Whether it’s a black and white photograph or a vibrant painting, help it look it’s best by surrounding it with a simple clean neutral. After all, there’s a reason why art gallery walls are always painted white! Designer Tip: You can take this effect one step further by also framing and matting your artwork in white. This creates the interesting visual effect of blurring where the walls end and the art begins. A perfect example of this is the lavender print over the dining room bar.

White makes your ceilings look higher. White walls, white ceiling and white molding blend together into an optical illusion that creates visual height and volume. This is an especially great trick in older homes with 8’ ceilings.

White makes your brights look brighter. The attributes of colorful pieces of furniture or objects are amplified when set inside a white box. Because of this effect, you can make fewer grander statements with color and still get maximum impact. Designer Tip: In a mostly white room, consider concentrating a large amount of color on one item. For example, in this mostly white family room, I chose to make a grand gesture with the jade green color of the coffee table. The bold color of the table turns into something more, by surrounding it with white.

White makes you feel better. While this may sound a little silly, there are psychological benefits to the color white. It helps your home feel refreshing, clean, and quiet. And who wouldn’t want that?

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The Ultimate White Paint Roundup
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The Ultimate White Paint Roundup
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Photography: Catherine Truman | Art over Bar Cart: Minted | Artwork over Sofa: Lola Donaghue | Bar Cart: Anthropologie | Black and White Art: Wisteria Faux Bois Mirror | Brass Side Tables: West Elm | Campaign Chests: West Elm | Chandelier: Anthropologie | Charcoal Sofa: Bernhardt | Coffee Table: CB2 | Coral Table Lamps: Candelabra | Dalmatian Statues: Vintage | Dining Room Table: Restoration Hardware | Drapery Hardware: Pottery Barn | Drapery Panels: Pottery Barn Kids | Hex Coffee Table: Anthropologie | Host and Hostess Chairs: Restoration Hardware | Interior Design and Styling: Kendall Simmons | Ivory and Brass Side Tables: Bernhardt | Paint Color: Benjamin Moore's Robbins Egg, High Gloss | Pair of Console Tables: Wisteria Faux Bois Mirror | Pair of Swivel Chairs: Bernhardt | Pair of X Base Benches: West Elm | Rug: Urban Outfitters | Side Chairs: Serena & Lily | Silver Side Table: Urban Outfitters | Small Square Paintings: Ed Nash | Sofa: Bernhardt | Turquoise Table Lamps: Wisteria Faux Bois Mirror | White Vase: West Elm | Wing Chair: Bernhardt

10 Things To Do if You’re Boycotting Black Friday

I’m not anti-Black Friday (I love me a good deal) but I’ve also never stepped foot in a store the day after Thanksgiving. I’d rather wait for cyber Monday and take my turkey-stuffed belly to the farm to pick out our tree and deck the halls with Nat King Cole. Are you boycotting Black Friday too? Here are 10 things to do that totally beat the crowds!

Things To Do if You're Boycotting Black Friday
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Things To Do if You're Boycotting Black Friday
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10 Essentials for the Ultimate Holiday Survival Kit

Simple + Intimate Fall Elopement in Paradise Valley, Montana

‘Tis the season to spend time with our families, which is why this sweet Montana elopement feels so appropriate to share. Captured by the talented Danford Photography, it’s a seriously sweet reminder that family is first and foremost, and we’ve got it all waiting in The Vault!

From Danford PhotographyMelanie and James decided to have a simple elopement while they were on vacation in Montana with their two year old little boy and baby girl. They chose gorgeous Paradise Valley for the simple and sweet occasion. The day of their elopement, the mountains were blanketed in low-hanging clouds, but the rain held off. Melanie wore her beautiful red hair down her back, complemented by a lace BHLDN dress and her vintage emerald engagement ring. Her bouquet was a gorgeous pop of yellow on an overcast day. We all casually strolled up the hill to a field with beautiful 360-degree views of the cloud-covered mountains and the horses grazing nearby. Melanie and James made vows to their children and each other, exchanged rings and kisses, and then we took photos of their adorable family as their little boy ran off some energy. Afterward, they sent us off with a generous slice of the most incredible lemon blueberry lavender cake. The afternoon was relaxed, intimate and full of love.

Photography: Danford Photography | Floral Design: The Flower Hat | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Cake: Whipped Confections | Ring: Trumpet & Horn | Officiant: Beth Renick

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
7 Traditions To Start This Thanksgiving Weekend

Not only are we in the season of all things cheer, but it’s the time of year that festive traditions come alive and make the holidays such a wonderful time to look forward to. And what better time than Thanksgiving weekend to kick off those traditions. Whether you’ve got a favorite recipe you make every year, break out your fave seasonal movies or a tree cutting adventure the day after—here’s what our editors will be doing this holiday weekend!

Our Editor's Favorite Thanksgiving Weekend Traditions
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Our Editor's Favorite Thanksgiving Weekend Traditions
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Just a few weeks to get those gifts wrapped!

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More Thanksgiving Inspiration this way…

Don’t Forget to Keep These Essentials on Hand for Your Thanksgiving Feast
5 Ways to Impress Your Guests this Thanksgiving
The Ultimate Survival Guide for an (Almost) Perfect Thanksgiving
The Best Hostess Gifts (that Aren’t Wine)
Get Inspired to Craft a Knockout Thanksgiving Dessert Buffet
The Ultimate Recipe Roundup for a Delicious Thanksgiving Feast

Happy Thanksgiving + The Coziest Fall Wedding!

Here at SMP, we’ve got a lot (today and every day) to be thankful for. First up? This incredibly romantic garden wedding in Maine. It’s quintessential autumn tones set the scene for celebration, but it’ll be the sweet story below that’ll totally win you over. From their Irish inspired ceremony that took place under the watchful eye of a wayward porcupine (!!) to the undeniably beautiful barn reception, Emily Delamater Photography has got it all waiting for you to favorite via The Vault!

Colors
Styles
Rustic

From the Bride… What happens when two New Hampshire transplants meet on New Year’s Eve in a Boston neighborhood bar, fall in love over common roots and new pursuits, and aspire for a ceremony that captures past, present, and future and pays homage to a shared love for New England? An autumn wedding in Maine.

Bride and groom, Kerry and Derek, chose Hidden Pond in Kennebunkport for their wedding celebration. Surrounded by the foliage of a classic New England forest and yet almost touched by the mist of the Atlantic Ocean, Hidden Pond wraps the rustic in quintessentially understated Maine refinement and seaside splendor. Our fondness for fall and the coast, for simplicity and elegance, made no concessions here.

Neither did Kate Martin and her wonderful staff. She brought together all of the delightfully disparate elements of the wedding portrait we wanted framed: white pumpkins, rich red and salmon colors, illuminated trees, flower arrangements with texture and depth, green vines, mercury glass, white birch, farm tables covered with candles, an overall feeling of “dreaminess.” And exquisitely framed it was, by the lovely photography of Emily Delamater. Emily knows the perfect shot and has a special way of making even the smallest moments sparkle. We could not have achieved our wedding day aspirations without them.

We were married in the gardens of Hidden Pond, on a crisp but bright late October day, over traditional Irish music and under the watch of a wayward porcupine that wandered a bit too close to our ceremony. Bursts of color punctuated the scene as the trees surrounding this lovely little spot were still clinging to their last autumn leaves. From the warm apple cider to the smiling faces of our guests keeping warm under flannel blankets, it was a moment we won’t forget.

The cocktail hour was held in the Hidden Pond Barn under a canopy of twinkle lights that glittered almost as much as the bridesmaid dresses. The cocktail hour featured some of Maine’s finest offerings, prepared by one of Maine’s finest restaurants, Hidden Pond’s Earth: mini- lobster rolls, grilled cheeses with heirloom tomatoes, and some good local beer – Bissell Brother’s Substance and Maine Beer Company’s Mo. A dinner of lobster gnocchi and slow- roasted lamb followed, lit by table candles and grapevine chandeliers created by Kate’s team at Beautiful Days.

The reception featured one of New Hampshire’s most celebrated and movable wedding traditions (brought to us by Derek’s college buddies): the University of New Hampshire “dance rug,” on which nearly every wedding guest, young and old, must step and perform some action approximating a dance move before they are acquitted for the evening. The dance party that followed was sustained by everyone’s fall favorite, apple cider donuts, freshly baked by Earth, and Maine blueberry wedding cake, prepared locally by Gayle Forte at Let Them Eat Cake.

It was important that the day felt personal to us. We wanted in some modest way to capture ourselves, where we came from, where we found each other, and where we hope we’re heading.

Our wedding celebration ended up capturing us, expressing the pure joy of our love for one another and for our guests so effortlessly that the only thing we could do and wanted to do was get on the dance rug and enjoy each and every minute of it.


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Photography: Emily Delamater Photography | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Cake: Let Them Eat Cake | Invitations: El's Cards | Bridesmaids' Dresses: BHLDN | Makeup : Joya Beauty | Hair: Hair That Moves | Officiant: Friend | Ceremony Music: Boghat | Transportation : Intown Trolley | Venue: Hidden Pond | Tent Rental : Exeter Rentals | Ceremony and Reception Catering: Hidden Pond | Event Design, Flowers, Decor + Lighting, Coordination: Beautiful Days | Linens : BBJ La Tavola | Reception Music: Keros Entertainment | Rentals : Peterson Party Center

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
A Lake Como Wedding Planned Abroad

Why Italy, you ask? Well, for Anastasia and Devin, the question was really a matter of why not? They couldn’t imagine a more romantic spot to marry, especially when they came across the very same venue where John Legend and Chrissy Teigen tied the knot. Dive straight into their happily ever after beautifully photographed by Thecablookfotolab.

From Anastasia AslanyanThe wedding of Anastasia and Devin will be always in our hearts. It was special. Special because of the love and happiness all around coming from each of the guests and of the couple. It was fantastic!

The location chosen is one of the most beautiful and amazing on Lake Como and it is not only because of the place but also because of the atmosphere and authenticity – historical villa, beautiful gardens and a fascinating terrace with 180 degree view on the lake and the mountains. As soon as you visit the villa you will understand why John Legend chose exactly this one. Anastasia and Devin decided to choose green and white theme to be more natural in the surroundings. The idea of the ceremony zone was to maintain the nature and the effect of air without making the standard arch but to create something more sophisticated and incorporated in the view. 

During the dinner, the band was playing life music while in between there were some dances and speeches. But the most touchy moment was when the groom played a song that he has dedicated to the bride…everyone was crying! After the dinner followed the cut of the cake with the hugest naked cake we’ve ever seen and the biggest fireworks done in Como. The party started with eight pieces band singing favorite and famous songs. The dance floor was on fire with all of the guests dancing in flip-flops kindly brought and prepared by the couple. All the team together with photographers and videographers were happy on that day because of so many smiles and kindness around as well as sincere and real emotions.

From the Bride…Devin and I met on January 31, 2016 through the traditional way, an app called “Coffee Meets Bagel”. We both live and met in San Francisco, California. It was my first date through this particular app, although I tried all of the websites and apps before. The first date went well, we couldn’t stop talking to each other. Devin dropped me off at home like a real gentleman and I knew he had a lot of potential. We went on a date a week for the first 4 dates since I was traveling a lot. I invited Devin to my house in the wine country for a weekend and since then we haven’t spent a day without each other.

Fast forward to December 12, 2016, a little over 10 months after our first date Devin proposed to me on a mountain in Tahoe, California while skiing. Devin is a great skier and would ski for a living if we could live on that kind of salary. Guess what he proposed with? Coffee in a carry mug and bagel with cream cheese hidden in his backpack.

I went to New York to try on some dresses. I don’t like shopping (unless it’s for shoes), so I was in love with the first dress I tried on. It was simple in the front and the back was wow, sheer back with a long, long train. I tried some more dresses in California, but nothing looked better than the first dress. I decided that it was meant to be and ordered that dress. I made a second dress for dancing, but the first dress was the “star”.

Why did we pick Italy? Well, firstly it’s Italy, secondly it’s Italy and thirdly it’s Italy! Pasta, pizza, wine, history, nature and beautiful culture. When we started thinking of a venue, number one thing we wanted for our special day was to have an outdoor wedding. Naturally being in San Francisco we looked into Santa Cruz or the Wine Country. I helped with a few weddings before as a hoppy and didn’t like United States winery restrictions with hours and vendors. We went to the Italian Alps to meet my family for Christmas 2016 and I thought of Lake Como, Italy, because it was 2 hours away from where we were staying and I spent a week there in the summer 2014. We made an appointment with the first wedding planner that responded to us and visited a few potential locations.

I found Italian Easy Weddings with two partners, one of them was Russian. That worked out perfectly, our wedding ended up bilingual. I am from Uzbekistan, my family still lives in Russia. Italy was 5-8 hours for my family and many of our friends are from the East Coast. Our host, photographer, videographer and DJ were all Russian speakers and my family felt like home. The venue we picked, Villa Pizzo, was suggested by our wedding planners, it wasn’t even on our radar. It was the most amazing place and ceremony and reception were all on one property. Plus John Legend and Chrissy Teigen got married there. Though I think our wedding was more beautiful. My husband plays piano and sings too, so we had a grand piano on the stage for him to sing, just like John Legend. Villa Pizzo was available on July 4th and there were fireworks on the lake, not for us but everyone at our wedding thought it was for us.

Needless to say, we are still on wedding high. The beauty of Lake Como is indescribable, the food is the tastiest in the world, the talents of the band, photographers, wedding planners, florist and decorators is top notch. Due to the beauty of the manicured gardens and the scene of the green alps and the lake, we wanted to keep the decor simple, green with a little bit of white to blend in rather than stand out. Needless to say, we are still on wedding high. If we could get married every year, we would. We had no stress before, during or after the wedding, everything was just smooth and perfect.

Photography: Thecablookfotolab | Cinematography: Lavender Bicycle | Event Planning: Happy Moments Collector | Floral Design: rattiflora | Stationery: Letter B | Bride's Shoes: Christian Louboutin | Rings: Custom from A&J Jewelers | Catering: AFM | Lighting: Blunotte Events | Band: Blunotte band | Groom's Attire: Hugo Boss | Venue: Villa Pizzo | Bridesmaids' Robes: Plum Pretty Sugar | Makeup Lessons: Salt Spelt Beauty

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
10 Tell-Tale Signs He’ll Propose This Holiday Season

I don’t know if you’ve heard, but the ’tis the season to get engaged. That’s right, statistics have shown us that more than one in four grooms propose to their brides over the holiday season and if that isn’t exciting, then what is!? And while we can’t guarantee anything will happen for certain, but certainly can point out some sneaky tip-offs that he just might be preparing to propose before the New Year (!!!!!!!!)

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He’s Slightly Standoffish

He seems a little more preoccupied than usual or withdrawn from day-to-day conversations.

He Double and Triple Checks Your Schedule

Because obviously, he needs to make sure you’re free!

He’s Overly Protective of His Phone or Wallet

Receipts, ring photos or proposal planning texts could all be his top secret information.

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He Asks or Confirms Your Jewelry Tastes

I mean, this one is just obvious!

He’s Been in Money Saving Mode.

More date nights in could mean more bucks saved for the bling.

He’s Initiated Discussions About Long-Term Plans

Jobs, locations, kids or no kids? It’s all important convo topics with our soon-to-be.

He Treats You To a Spa Day

Hello, manicure!

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He Makes Big Plans for the Holidays

Whether it’s an escape to his family’s cozy cabin or a reservation at your favorite restaurant, he just might be up to something special.

He Becomes Overly Sentimental

All of the sudden he’s reminiscing on how you two first met, your first date, etc.

He’s in Talks With Your Family or Closet Friends

Almost as if they ALL know something you don’t!

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Psssst: a little ring inspiration to get you started!

What's Your Engagement Ring Style?
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What's Your Engagement Ring Style?
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Clink Clink to Thanksgiving with this Easy Champagne Cocktail

Nothing, and I mean nothing feels quite as celebratory as popping open a bottle of bubbly. It’s a sound we adore around these parts and with a little help from The Whisking Kitchen, it’s also a sound that you might be hearing come Thanksgiving. Take your champagne up a notch with this Hard Apple Chandy cocktail. Or get the festivities started a wee bit early and make this, um now. Clink clink!

Hard Apple Chandy
prep time
5 Minute/s
cook time
total time
5 Minute/s
Serves 1Ingredients
  • 1/3 Part Champagne
  • 1/3 Part Hard Apple Cider
  • 1/3 Part Apple Juice
  • For Garnish: Thin apple slices and pomegranate arils
Instructions
  1. Pour hard apple cider, apple juice and top with champagne in a champagne flute or wine glass.
  2. Garnish with thin apple slices and pomegranate.

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10 Ways to Nail Thanksgiving (that have nothing to do with food)
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10 Ways to Nail Thanksgiving (that have nothing to do with food)
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Photography: Elizabeth Van Lierde | Design and Styling: Elizabeth Van Lierde

You’ll Fall for This Colorful Autumn Wedding Inspiration

What’s your favorite season? Mine just so happens to be fall and this inspiration highlights exactly why. From the colorful bouquet saturated with rich red hues, to the gilded cake accented with leaves (how creative is that?!), we’ve got it all captured from the talented Jamie Rae Photo in The Vault!

From Jamie Rae Photo“Every leaf speaks bliss to me when fluttering from the autumn tree…”-Emily Bronte. One step outside on a crisp Northwest autumn morning always stirs the romantic within. The promise of change…vibrant golds and fading reds…the burst of holiday cheer that surprises everyone with sudden arrival…all of these things create a cacophony of colorful inspiration. This romantic shoot was inspired by the crisp air and that feeling of change that magically stirs the soul in Autumn. And while it wasn’t hard to find inspiration this time of year, we wanted to put together a team of the absolute best vendors to showcase how wonderful a fall-fading to winter holiday wedding can look like. Swoon Floral Design created a palette of roses, oak leaves, astilbe, lisianthus, mums, and nandina for the bouquet and floral center pieces. We accented these colors with hints of the holiday season for table decor…persimmons, pears, hazelnuts and chestnuts remind us of the celebratory season that fall ushers in. These tones and textures can be incorporated into a fall or winter, seasonal or religious wedding or event. A bountiful holiday spread of cheese, almonds, bread and jam illustrate how easy it is to entertain artistically (and deliciously!) this time of year. Claire La Feye provided a dramatic chantilly lace, two piece gown, which we accented with hand made gold jewelry from Jes Design Studio.

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Photography: Jamie Rae Photo | Floral Design: Swoon Floral Design | Dress: Claire La Faye | Cake: Little Red's Bakeshop & Café | Invitations: HeyHalle | Shoes: Designer Shoe Warehouse | Jewelry: Jes Design Studio | Hair + Makeup: Kim King Make Up | Film Processing: PhotoVision Prints | Table + Rentals: Something Borrowed Vintage Rentals

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
Cozy, Candlelit Lodge Wedding

Ally and Christian’s wedding on the shore of Nita Lake is the very reason I love fall affairs so very much. Anchored in a rich moody color palette with a cozy lodge setting and a candlelit dinner, it’s a perfect ode to the autumn season with romantic touches from vendors like Maurelle Calligraphy. Go see all the pretty that awaits in the gallery from Melia Lucida.

From the Bride…I never grew up believing that there was a perfect partner out there waiting for me. But, after my second date with Christian, looking into his eyes, it felt as if we had always known each other. A week, and three more dates later, and we were inseparable. Since then, a little over five years from our first date, we have only been apart for a handful of days. And, the fact that it pains me to remember each and every one of those days, shows me that there is in fact a perfect partner and that I had found him.

After a classically inspired engagement at the stunning Rosewood Hotel Georgia, I started planning our big “rustic-elegance” themed wedding day. The most important factor, however, was that I did not want a prolonged engagement. But, even I did not realize how short our engagement was going to be until I fell in love with the location, and learned that their only availability was less than five months away. And, since Christian and I were budget-conscious, and were taking on our wedding planning to cut costs, it was quite the task we gave ourselves!

After far too many three-hour roundtrip drives to the venue, and a number of long and stressful decision-filled days, with the help of our amazing vendors, our vision came together. The day was rustic and romantic, yet elegant and timeless. Even the weather cooperated just long enough for our outdoor ceremony, and our photo session. The wooden vineyard chairs and log-rounds, aged-gold touches throughout, and textured linens and menus, all tied together by incredible florals that were heavy on greenery, and featured hints of blush, and a Protea to honor my South African heritage, made for a seamless and magical day! And, as the staff at the Lodge later recounted to us, the venue was completely transformed!

On the big day, my bridesmaids and I got ready on-site in the stunning Rainforest Suite at the venue, while Christian and his groomsmen got shaves in a suite at the other end of the Lodge. While the day flew by, I will never forget sharing our first dance on the patio, overlooking the lake, while a light mist started to come down. And, just as we were sharing a kiss, my husband’s family surprised me with a breathtaking fireworks display that rounded out what was the most amazing day of my life, and was the perfect start to our lives together!

Christian and I are taking a few months to enjoy our newlywed life, and then we will be heading off on our honeymoon to Rome and the Amalfi Coast of Italy!

Photography: Melia Lucida, Photographer | Design: Taffete Designs | Styling: Gumboot Glam | Floral Design: Celsia Florist | Cake: Ganache Patisserie | Catering: Nita Lake Lodge | Makeup: Jasmine Hoffman | Hair: Jasmine Hoffman | Calligraphy: Maurelle Calligraphy | DJ: Like You Just Don’t Care | Groom's Attire: Ermeneglildo Zegna | Groomsmen's Attire: Indochino | Venue: Nita Lake Lodge | Bride's Earrings: Nordstrom | Bride's Necklace: Minichiello Jewellers | Bridesmaids' Jewelry: Olive + Piper | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: David's Bridal | Bride’s Shoes: Louboutin | Day-Of Coordination + Decor: Celebrate Events | Decor: Taffete Designs | Décor: Bespoke Decor | Event Rentals: Event Rental Works | Fireworks: Whistler Fireworks | Groom's Hair: Kurt Hoffman | Hair Accessories: The Borrowed Collection | Invitations + Wedding Website: Minted | Reception Music: Musos Entertaiment | Wedding Dress + Veil: Manuel Mendoza

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A Garden Wedding That Celebrates Spring

Everything about this wedding planned by Elegant Aura is a celebration of spring. From the color palette to the garden setting to the florals – including blue hydrangea, pink peonies, and baby’s breath, just to name a few. Meghann Gregory photographed and there’s even more to see this way.

From Elegant AuraMelanie and Matt met in college and were together for 11 years before they got engaged. A year and a half later, they were married. They wanted a casual but elegant wedding. Though they wanted to keep things simple, their wedding did not lack creativity or style. Melanie and Matt had a traditional Catholic ceremony, followed by a cocktail hour and reception held at the Garden’s of Elm Bank.

For Melanie and Matt, the most important element of their wedding day was that the music should be great and for everyone to have fun. They wanted their guests to say they enjoyed the dancing the most. The menu consisted of lots of New England summer-style items, and a few Puerto Rican dishes to honor the bride’s mother’s heritage. In addition to the wedding cake, there was a mini’s dessert bar that highlighted spring/summer fruit.

The bride wore an Essense of Australia wedding dress of soft organza over a moscato-tulle ball gown with a detachable grosgrain ribbon sash in blossom. Custom white lace straps were added to the bodice’s sweetheart neckline. Her shoes were Badgley Mischka peep toes with a kitten heel. The groom wore a traditional Jos. A Bank fitted blue-gray suit with navy tie and pocket square. The groomsmen wore similar blue-gray suits, which complimented the bridesmaid’s navy blue chiffon dresses.

The wedding day was not short on personal details. The earrings the bride wore belonged to her maternal grandmother, who had passed away the summer before the wedding; “she wanted all of her granddaughters to wear them for their weddings”, says Melanie. The prayer book Melanie carried belonged to her paternal grandmother, which was given to her on her wedding day. Since then, all females in the family have carried it down the aisle on their wedding day. The cake knife and server were from the bride’s parent’s wedding.

The color palette incorporated navy, gray and hints of coral and peach. The bride’s neighbors designed the centerpieces using blue hydrangea, pink peonies, and baby’s breath among greenery, berries and other dainty white flowers. These popped beautifully against the dove gray linen tablecloth and silver painted table numbers. The carriage house ceiling was enhanced with white voile fabric drapery and bee light strings. Perimeter up lighting in amber warmed the walls. The dance area under the attached three-season tent was decorated with white mini-lantern strings that were draped throughout, adding a soft, sweet tough to the tent ceiling. Amber up lighting completed the tent’s transformation and brought cohesiveness between the two spaces.

Although the May day was an unseasonably 90 degrees, everyone had a great time and the bride and groom got what they’d hoped for, all of their guests danced the night away.

Photography: Meghann Gregory Photography | Event Planning: Elegant Aura | Wedding Dress: Essense Of Australia | Ceremony Venue: St. Edward the Confessor Parish | Reception Venue: Massachusetts Horticultural Society | Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Catering: Peppers Artful Events | DJ: Sound City Entertainment | Transportation: Able Limo | Bouquets + Boutonnieres: Peppers Artful Events | Lighting + Drapery: DesignLightCo.

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Even Rain Couldn’t Make These Wedding Day Smiles Disappear!

With a love for all things Italian, this couple – with the help of Kelley Event + Design, Bloom Room and an amazing MOB – decided to bring that energy to Asheville, North Carolina for their summer celebration. It was a rustic elegant dream come true and even a little bit of rain couldn’t damper the spirit. Graham Terhune captured all the the joy – see every magical moment in our Vault right this way!

From the Bride… Zeb and I wanted an outdoor wedding with an Italian/Tuscan feel. We have spent a lot of time in Italy, and we got engaged in Tuscany last summer on a family trip. The night we got engaged, we celebrated with both of our families and the most wonderful meal made for us by the owners of the villa where we were staying. Jens is a chef, and his wife Barbara, a florist. There were 18 of us at one long table, outside in the courtyard of the villa – with views of the rolling hills of Tuscany, and the most beautiful flowers and grape vines on the table and cafe lights above us. Fantastic food, wine, and company that evening. This is the feel we wanted for our wedding – and wow, I had no idea how perfectly it would all come together!

The planning started with the venue. We wanted the wedding to be outside and during the summer, so we headed to Asheville, NC. When we arrived at Claxton Farm, we knew that was where our wedding had to be. The large outdoor space (perfect for our ceremony and dinner) surrounded by mountains was simply picturesque. And then our Tuscan wedding vision was really brought to life by Kelley Event + Design, The Bloom Room, and my mom, Kim – with the long banquet tables, ivory linens, wooden x-back chairs, ivory garden roses, ranunculus, hydrangeas, olives and olive leaves, eucalyptus, lavender, rosemary, sage, wheat. The colors were all soft – ivory, grey, olive/sage, and lavender accents. We had an Italian spritz for our signature cocktail (thank you, Mom, for such a great idea!!) and Altamura Sangiovese during our long sit-down dinner with cafe lights above us – oh so Italian.

The one thing we were so worried about, with our outdoor ceremony and our tented dinner, was the weather. It had been pouring earlier in the day, but with a sliver of blue sky appearing an hour before ceremony time, we made the call to keep the ceremony outside. And the weather for the ceremony was perfect – 75 degrees and cloudy! It then rained on and off during the cocktail hour – and eventually POURED while Graham was taking pictures of Zeb and me – and I must say – that was the most fun photo shoot ever! (Brides, if you have your hair up and some spare makeup, say YES to taking some photos in the rain!) The clouds rolling through the mountains made for the most beautiful scenery. And then towards the end of the dinner, the sun came back out and we had a rainbow before heading to the barn for cake and lots of dancing!

We could not have been happier with our wedding. Not only was it the most fun and happy day of our lives, but everything was more beautiful than I could have ever imagined. So – to my mom, Kelley Event + Design, The Bloom Room, and Claxton Farm – you absolutely nailed it. I was simply in awe the entire evening – as I continued to notice additional perfect little details. I am so thankful to have had the dream team create and flawlessly execute our dream wedding!

Photography: Anagram Photo | Event Planning: Lauren Evans | Floral Design: the bloom room | Wedding Dress: Watters | Cake: City Bakery | Stationery: Pink Toast Ink | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Joanna August | Catering: Claxton Farm | Hair + Makeup: Blush By Wendy | DJ: Audio To Go | Groom's Attire: J. Hilburn | Venue: Claxton Farm

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We’re Thankful This Rustic Photo Shoot Exists

Sometimes all it takes is the smallest gesture (or in this case, one beautiful autumn inspired photo shoot at Rancho Las Lomas) to remind us just how incredibly lucky we are to bring you beauty on the daily. We just thought you’d like to know how eternally grateful we are for readers like you and hope you rejoice in the fact that we’ve got the loveliest snaps from Natalie Bray Studios waiting for you in The Vault!

From Meadowsweet EventsSet amongst ancient oaks and sycamore trees, this beautiful fall editorial is romance in the purest form. We pulled every pretty touch together to create a clean and modern slate for the beautifully crafted wild florals by Best Day Ever, and the gorgeous paper textures from The Pointed Nib. By keeping the design minimalist with just glass and brass elements, we allowed all the other colors and textures to shine through and add just enough beauty without overwhelming the viewer. Natalie Bray perfectly captured the serenity and romance of the day!

Photography: Natalie Bray Studios | Event Design: Meadowsweet Events | Event Planning: Meadowsweet Events | Floral Design: Best Day Ever Floral Design | Wedding Dresses: The Dress Theory | Hair + Makeup: Beauty By Melina | Invitations + Calligraphy: The Pointed Nib | Venue: Rancho Las Lomas | Furniture + Tabletop Rentals: Folklore Vintage Rentals | Models: Kevin Challinor | Rentals: Gardenology

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It’s Not too Late to Whip Up this Dessert Home Run for Thanksgiving

The day before Thanksgiving will forever be Pie Making Day in our family. We’re loading up on the apples and flour, dusting off grandma’s secret recipe and breaking out the champagne glasses which our obviously a necessary component to baking oodles of pie. If you’re on the hunt for a soon to be favorite dessert, look no further than this Pear and Cranberry Ginger Pie from The Whisking Kitchen.

Pear and Cranberry Ginger Pie
prep time
1 Hour/s
cook time
1 Hour/s 15 Minute/s
total time
2 Hour/s 15 Minute/s
Serves 0Ingredients
  • 2 - nine inch pie dough disks (homemade or store bought)
  • 6 Large Bartlett or Red or Green Anjou Pears, thinly sliced
  • 1 1/2 Cups of whole fresh cranberries
  • 1 Cup of granulated sugar
  • 3 Tablespoons of corn starch
  • 1/2 Teaspoon of salt
  • 1 Tablespoon of freshly grated ginger
  • 1 Tablespoon of freshly grated orange zest
  • Juice from 1/2 small orange
  • 1 Whole egg
  • 1 Tablespoon of milk
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
  2. Roll out pie disks on a marble or pastry board to a 9 inch diameter. Add one disk to the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan. In a large bowl add thinly sliced pears, cranberries, sugar, cornstarch, salt, grated ginger, grated orange zest and orange juice. Mix well and let fruit mixture macerate for 10-15 mins. Pour pie into prepared pie crust. Top with lattice to liking or just place entire dough piece over pie filing.
  3. In small bowl whisk together egg + milk. Brush egg mixture over visible pie crust. Bake pie for 60-75 minutes or until crust is golden brown and fruit mixture is bubbling.
  4. Allow to cool for one - two hours before serving.

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How to Fix Any Thanksgiving Problem
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How to Fix Any Thanksgiving Problem
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More Thanksgiving Goodies…

Do’s & Don’ts of Thanksgiving Dinner | Tips for a Pretty Table | Ultimate Thanksgiving Checklist

Photography: Elizabeth Van Lierde | Design and Styling: Elizabeth Van Lierde

A Garden Engagement in New Jersey Straight Out of Our French Dreams

Don’t worry, I was easily mistaken too. These pics are not from a romantic escape to the French countryside… they’re in our own backyard, at the Jardin de Buis in New Jersey! But between the beauty of all these images by Sophie Kawalek and this chic couple, you would think you’re a world away. Get ready to add Jardin de Buis to your must visit list pronto with these pretty pics in our Vault right here!

From Sophie Kawalek Photography… When Aileen reached out to me a few months ago to start discussing her engagement session, I was so excited for her location suggestion of Jardin de Buis – a destination wedding venue in the heart of New Jersey. Inspired by the French countryside and gorgeous unique antiques, designer and owner Andrea has created the most amazing little bit of Provence in her backyard.

Aileen, Phil and I spent a few hours wandering around the venue, taking full advantage of beautiful backdrops, lush greenery, and the gorgeous daylight. We focused on simple, beautiful portraits of the two of them, only accented by an organic bouquet and small personal details – like her amazing one of a kind peachy sapphire ring and the matching Mrs. Box she brought with her.

Photography: Sophie Kaye Photography | Floral Design: Mandolin Floral | Shoes: Zara | Engagement Ring: Natural Sapphire Company | Suit: Zara | Lace Dress: Missguided | Location: Jardin De Buis | Ring Box: The Mrs Box | White Dress: Zara

A Totally Chic All-White Wedding

I’m just sayin’, Morgan and Maureen are the most beautiful couple in the whole entire world. Just take one look at their incredibly chic wedding at the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa captured by Lavender and Twine and you’ll agree. From the Found Vintage Rentals to the stunning TEAM Hair and Makeup looks, we’ve got it all sitting pretty in The Vault!

From Lavender and TwineI wanted to send over a wedding that I photographed in Ojai last spring that I absolutely adore. Morgan and Maureen are not only gorgeous, they are seriously two of the kindest and most genuine people that I’ve had the pleasure of working with. They planned a relaxed and low key celebration where the focus was enjoying the time with their family and friends. The vibe of the entire day was so happy and laid back…seriously a photographer’s dream!

They had beautiful details that were a mix of both feminine and masculine styling. The soft astilbe in the florals was a feminine touch, while linen and slate grey were used to pull in a more masculine touch.

From the Bride…We were lucky enough to plan the wedding of our dreams at one of our favorite places, the Ojai Valley Inn. We are so grateful for all of the amazing professionals that made our wedding so special and uniquely us, especially our incredible planner Michel of Michel B. Events, our florist Bree of RockRose Florals, and photographer Daniele of Lavender and Twine.

Surrounded by 130 of our close family and friends, we said our “I do’s” in the historic Wallace Neff courtyard with the rolling hills of the Ojai Valley as our backdrop. The ceremony was followed by cocktail hour in the terraced herb garden. The Get Down Boys provided a fun bluegrass music backdrop and were a hit with our guests. The reception dinner was held on the Orchard lawn below and was set up with extra long tables and strung with twinkle lights. DJ Wes of RedShoe L.A. Got everyone on the dance floor following our first dance and joint father/daughter dance.

It was the most memorable weekend of our lives and we can’t wait to go back to relive it every year on our anniversary!

Photography: Lavender Twine | Event Design: Michel B. Events | Floral Design: Rockrose Floral Design | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Stationery: Carmody and Co. | Jewelry: Tiffany & Co. | Hair + Makeup: TEAM Hair and Makeup | Calligraphy: Sophia Loves Letters | Calligraphy: The Bride | Lighting: Bella Vista Designs, Inc | DJ: Red Shoe LA | Ceremony Music: The Get Down Boys | Venue: Ojai Valley Inn | Maureen's Shoes: Stuart Weitzmen | Morgan's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Rentals: Town And Country Rentals | Vintage Dishware: Otis + Pearl Partywares | Vintage Rentals: Found Rental Co.

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Secrets to a Healthy Marriage from a Couple 58 Years In!

Harold and Lorraine have figured out the secret sauce to a happy marriage. For not only do they make 58 years of wedded bliss look easy, but their tips on how to make it last are completely applicable whether you’re a newlywed or years in. See their advice below and all the adorable snaps from Maison Meredith Photography in The Vault!

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Harold + Lorraine’s Tips for a Lasting Marriage

 

Love each other

Respect each other (If you don’t respect each other, you will never get along! These first two tips are our most important ones.)

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Say please + thank you

Worship together

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Have a family

Plan your vacations together

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Have vacations with your children (We’ve found that they especially like camping!)

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Give each other some space! (It’s important to have separate hobbies apart from your spouse)

Be fair with each other. (Listen, discuss each person’s side together, and then choose which route is the best to go.)

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From the Lorraine…We got married in a little town call Kennan in north central Wisconsin 58 years ago! Both Harold and I are actually from this town, but we met in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Growing up in Kennan, I knew Harold’s family name, but I never actually knew Harold. He was five years older than me so I didn’t know him in grade school or high school.

I moved to Milwaukee after I graduated and Harold moved to Milwaukee after he got out of the service, which ended up being around the same time. Harold was actually living with my cousin and the two of them were really good friends! Since I was so much younger than my cousin, however, I didn’t know him very well and hence didn’t even know that he had a roommate, nonetheless that Harold was his roommate! The first time we met was actually at a dance in Milwaukee. Harold thought I was cute and the rest is history. We dated for a year and a half before Harold proposed on Valentine’s Day.

On our honeymoon we went to Yellowstone National Park and Harold told me that he had been saving 50 cent pieces, one at a time, so that he could take me on the trip! We drove out there through the Rocky Mountains and I was scared to death!

Another favorite memory we have together is our big trip to Europe. Harold was in the service in Germany, so for our 25th Anniversary we took a trip to see where he had lived. We were also able to go to Switzerland, Austria, and Italy. One of the best memories from the trip actually took place in the airport overseas — we were changing airlines and started chatting with a couple standing nearby us in line. We learned that they lived 15 miles from us in a small town in Central Wisconsin. I could hardly believe it, it was awesome! It was just a fun trip and I’m thankful we were young enough to really enjoy it.

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From Lorraine’s Granddaughter, Taylor… I have looked up to my grandparents my entire life. Their selfless love for one another and everyone in their life is admirable. They are always putting others first and deserved to have time for each other to capture that love and commitment to one another. They have told so many incredible stories over their lifetime, but the most captivating is their love story.

For my family and I, we will now be able to cherish these timeless photos forever. The photos will serve as a constant reminder to strive for a beautiful marriage filled with love, commitment, and laughter. The photos will be passed down to next generations in our family for years to come. There’s no doubt that people will be able to feel and be inspired by their love without ever having met them, and that is such a beautiful gift.

Photography: Maison Meredith Photography