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The B L A N C Collection from Grace Loves Lace is here!

Remember last week when we gave you a fab sneak peek at the latest from Grace Loves Lace, the B L A N C Collection?  Yeah, so do we.  I mean, stunning silhouettes, luxe fabrics and intricate details that are equal parts bold AND charming? Unforgettable. So today we’re diving into the entire lineup of gorgeous gowns, because, well… we couldn’t wait.  Break out the bubbly, lovelies – this is everything.

We all know that Grace Loves Lace are masters at creating gowns that speak to the modern woman… that goes without saying.  So spending our day wrapped up in their newest collection of totally unique + totally luxurious pieces? The best way ever to spend a Wednesday.  Think classic touches like French Chantilly lace, handcrafted + ultra-feminine shapes and awe-inspiring details like sand-washed silks and one-of-a-kind capes.  It’s everything you’ve ever wanted in a wedding gown, all while allowing your distinct personality to shine through. It shouldn’t be any other way.

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From the crisp white accents to the little touches of sexiness woven throughout, each of the 13 pieces in the new B L A N C Collection is seriously bursting at the seams with style and creativity.  Head to Grace Loves Lace today to begin perusing the pretty… that unforgettable gown of your dreams is just a click away.

Photographer: Darren McDonald | Make up : Anastasia Durasova | Hair: Christopher Ardoff | Hire space: Metropolitan Building | Model: Georgia Fowler

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These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
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8 Things To Avoid Packing for Vacation

When your family buys you a luggage weighing device for Christmas (me a few years back), you know you’re an extreme packer. I said goodbye to my excessive packing days in that moment and never turned back. Friends, light traveling is the way to go and if you can master it, you’ll realize how freeing it actually is. Start here with these 8 items to avoid toting with you when you travel!

8 Things To Avoid Packing for Vacation
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8 Things To Avoid Packing for Vacation
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Beauty Fix: Tips For Traveling

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How to Have a Traditional English Garden Wedding No Matter Where You Are

Though this Bride and Groom wanted the rustic landscape and natural beauty of Muskoka to set the tone for their summer wedding, they also incorporated touches of a traditional garden wedding as a nod to the Groom’s English upbringing. The result is a wedding that’s relaxed yet elegant, and beautifully romantic. See every gorgeous detail, courtesy of Crimson Photos and Images Life Media, in The Vault!

 

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From The Bride…Since I was a little girl I have always spent my summers in Muskoka. The sun, lakes, and endless blue sky are a huge part of who I am and some of the happiest memories I have with my family and friends. The very first time Roger came to stay with my family there (he’s English) he fell in love with it as well. When we got engaged we both knew exactly where we should be married and wanted all of our friends who know Muskoka well and also those from England who have never been, to experience its beauty and charming character. I envisaged our wedding as relaxed yet elegant and beautifully romantic. I wanted the landscape and the surroundings to set the tone and the food, drinks and entertainment to refine it. As a typical Muskoka weekend does, Mother Nature threw everything at us. On our Friday Welcome Drinks we had pure sunshine and blazing heat. Saturday was overcast but warm, which made it perfect for pictures, and all of the guests appreciated a little bit of wind whilst on the boat ride from the church to the reception. Sunday was driving rain (the Brits felt right at home) and we had the most amazingly fun catered BBQ and all ended up dancing down on the dock, in the rain, in our bare feet, just the way it should be in Muskoka!

Photography: Crimson Photos | Cinematography: ImagesWeddings | Event Planning: Spectacular Spectacular | Floral Design: Blossoms Flower Shop | Wedding Dress: Laure De Sagazan | Cake: MollyCake | Stationery: Mount Street Printers | Bride's Shoes: Manolo Blahnik | Catering: Crossroads Restaurant | Band: St. Royals | Venue: The Aspen Institute At Wye River | Boat: Wenonah 2 | Decor: MODE EVENTS

The Perfect Chicago Engagement Session Set at Millennium Park

How adorbs is this couple?! They’re seriously the SWEETEST! Thanks to Kristin La Voie Photography we’ve got their urban engagement set in Downtown Chicago, and each and every image is waiting for you in The Vault!

From Kristin La Voie PhotographyOh, Kelly & Troy….these two are an absolute dream to photograph! Not only are they seriously gorgeous and photogenic, but they are so easy just to be around. Happiness radiates from them. We got incredibly lucky with a beautiful, sunny day in the city between the dreadfully cold and rainy days we have been having. Millennium Park was glowing with light around every nook and cranny and I couldn’t get enough of these two in front of the camera! I am on pins and needles waiting for their September glam backyard wedding to come!

Photography: Kristin La Voie Photography | Venue: Millenium Park

Nautical Weddings Take Note, This is How It’s Done

There’s no better place to have a nautical wedding than Nantucket, even with Hurricane Joaquin and a Nor’easter threatening the island leading up to the big day. And, Meg and Charles’ wedding day is the ultimate nautical affair — from the Bride’s Pronovias lace wedding dress and pearl bracelet to the Groom’s Vineyard Vines bow tie to the classic New England touches throughout. Head to The Vault to see every gorgeous detail captured by the talented Brklyn View Photography!

From Brklyn View PhotographyTheir classic and elegant, nautical themed wedding was inspired by the happy couple’s love of one of the most beautiful islands in the north east, Nantucket. Meg and Charles spend their summers the island and it was the only place they wanted to celebrate their marriage. The weather leading up to the festivities was dismal as Hurricane Joaquin and a Nor’easter were both heading up the coast. The ferries were beginning to get cancelled the day before, flights were delayed and figuring out how to get to the island we becoming a real challenge for guests and vendors. However, on Saturday morning, the rain stopped, a little sun peeked through the clouds and the day went on with only minor glitches. Meg wore a gorgeous lace wedding dress by Pronovias and her mother’s pearl bracelet. Charles and the groomsmen wore ties from Vineyard Vines and fun mix of unexpected colored socks. They were married at the lovely Our Lady of Isle Church in town and celebrated at the gorgeous White Elephant Hotel along the water. We visited the Cru restaurant on the wharf and took over the back room for their bridal party portraits since we couldn’t photograph them outside. Being able to create several pairings in a small space is key to making their photos look amazing and every single person in their bridal party was amazing! As we walked with the Bride and Groom through town, we stopped at the famous Compass Rose before I found the cutest little nook with hanging string lights and ivy along the walls. It felt like Italy in Nantucket. Meg’s sister and Charles’ brother gave memorable speeches that had everyone, especially the bride and groom, shuffling between laughter and tears. It was one of the most touching ceremonies and celebrations I was able to photograph. Thank you so much for allowing me to document your wonderful wedding day!

Photography: Jainé Kershner Photography | Floral Design: Soiree Floral | Wedding Dress: Pronovias | Invitations: Dulce Press | Ceremony Venue: St. Mary's Our Lady Of The Isle | Reception Venue: The White Elephant Hotel | Bride's Shoes: L.K. Bennett | Makeup: Rj Miller | Groom's Attire: Vineyard Vines

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
Lovely Charleston is Now Open + A Grand Opening Party!

There’s exciting news… and then there’s the exciting news I’m about to share with you today.  Because Lovely Charleston is now open, my friends – and it’s everything you’ve ever dreamed.  Think a crazy cool locale, an all-pink interior (!) and a fab mix of indie and high-end designers that is equal parts awesome AND unique.  Changing your entire wedding world? In every.which.way.

Located on historic King Street right in the heart of the city, Lovely is introducing some of the most amazing designers to the Charleston area for the very first time.  I’m talking Rue De Seine, Anna Campbell, Katie May and Sarah Seven (among others), all ready to rock your wedding with their stunning silhouettes, beautiful details and luxurious fabrics that will wow you AND your guests.  Not to mention the designer collection of gowns carefully curated by Lovely’s team of experts, like Limor Rosen and Karen Willis Holmes.  In other words? Lovely Charleston is THE place to go if you are looking for something fashion-forward, totally romantic and all sorts of unique.  You can trust us on that one.

Contact Lovely Charleston TODAY to begin your journey towards that dress of your dreams. And mark your calendars for the official Grand Opening Party happening on June 17th at 127 King Street for a meet and greet with some of Charleston’s finest wedding vendors, yummy treats + drinks and an impromptu dance party (we’re just guessing).  It’s a can’t-miss event all curated by Kristin Newman Designs (she’s awesome). It’s going to be sooo much fun.

PS – Lovely Dallas is opening its doors on August 3rd! Learn more about the Lovely Collective here.

Photography: Rachel Red Photography | Hair: Wedding Hair By Charlotte | Beauty: Meg Workman | Floral 1: Anna Bella Florals | Floral 2: Tiger Lily Weddings | Jeweled Necklace: Candy Shop Vintage Deirdre Zahl

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From Childhood Vacations to this Stunning Sunset Elopement

These two spent their summers vacationing with their families in Lake Tahoe, so when it came time to find that perfect destination to say “I do,” they didn’t have to search very far. In front of the setting sun, they became husband and wife in an intimate affair, with Cassidy Carson snapping it all up in these perfect pics and Alyssa Torrech Videography recording away. More romance here in our Vault!

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From Cassidy Carson… What’s better than the most divine lake, snowcapped mountains and a magical sunset? Simple – when they merge at the horizon and create an absolute picturesque moment.

Molly and Collin met one summer when their families were vacationing in Lake Tahoe as they did every year. The nostalgia of childhood memories was a no brainer when Southern Social was scouting their elopement location. This sunset ceremony was the perfect combination of both Molly and Colin with its utterly romantic view paired with striking winter whites. The soft hues against the pristine snow made for an unimaginable scene and maintained the simple palette Molly described during the planning and designing of her elopement.

Molly donned a lush, refreshing bouquet from Petal & Pine accompanied by intricate details of her hand-stitched lace veil from Alice & Mae and flawless silk gown from Lea-Ann Belter with a stunning side braid by Leslie Ellis. Molly and Colin dreamed of a travel-inspired elopement to join their families in their favorite little lake town. Their dream was attained by devotion to the littlest of details including exquisite handmade paper, calligraphy and illustrations from Olive Juice Press for their invitation suite. They sent guests home with personal luggage tags to remember their incredible trip. The evening ended with a sunset to rival all sunsets forming a delicate package of perfection captured by Cassidy.


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More elopement inspiration this way!

Photography: Cassidy Carson Photography | Cinematography: Alyssa Torrech Videography | Event Planning + Design: Southern Social Events | Floral Design: Petal and Pine | Wedding Dress: Lea-Ann Belter Bridal Flagship Boutique | Hair + Makeup: Leslie Ellis | Calligraphy + Invitations: Olive Juice Press | Venue: Lake Tahoe | Bridal Boutique: The Bride Room | Hair Accessories + Veil: Alice and Mae Bridal | Ribbon: Silk and Willow

How the Editor-in-Chief of InStyle Says “I Do”

There’s no denying Ariel Foxman, Editor-in-Chief of InStyle and his love Brandon Cardet-Hernandez, New York City public school principal know how to throw a good party. But when we’re talking about their wedding designed in the hands of Fête, it’s a party taken to a whole new level. The grooms opted for a dark, moody palette with unexpected details, including a wall of peel-off escort cards and a bagel and schmear send-off for guests. Brian Dorsey captured all the images and we’re only just getting started.

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From The Grooms… The inspiration was a winter wedding that would feel lush and “undone” and have deep botanicals. Also, the we used ideas from the Dries Van Noten show, which referenced Dutch masters with gold, black, red and purples.

Jung Lee’s design is stand out because she and her team at FETE manage to epitomize your personal taste—the idiosyncratic things you’ve always imagined for your big day, the little flourishes that only you and your partner find amusing and delightful—while at the same time incorporating and elevating it to a standard of elegance and luxury like no other. And even as the final product is the height of sophistication, the appeal is contemporary, approachable and fun!

Our favorite part of the day—besides exchanging our vows to one another—was seeing how each and every detail came to life. Whether it was the peel-off escort card wall or the personalized chargers at everyone’s seat or the bagel and schmear send off with our charitable donation sticker affixed to each bag. Seeing the attention to every element and knowing that our guests experienced our day in exact balance that we had imagined, was simply amazing.

From the designers, Fête

Seating Concept 

As guests entered cocktails, they saw a wall application stating “Find Your Name” – it was scored into small rectangular pieces that served as guests’ escort card. Fete team helped guests peel their rectangular “escort card” off the wall. As guests peeled the card off, it became apparent that there was some image or painting underneath the application. By the end of cocktails, guests could finally make out the painting, which was an enlarged print of a watercolor painting an artist friend made for Ariel and Brandon.

During the planning process, Jung came up with the idea when the couple shared the painting with Jung – she knew it needed to be featured at the wedding, especially given the venue.

Curved Carpeted Aisle

The curved shape of the ceremony space inspired the idea for a curved, carpeted aisle. It increased the drama and beauty of the ceremony as a friend and recording artist sang her love ballad “With You”. Listen to it and it will become one of your favorite processional songs ever.

Photography: Brian Dorsey Studios | Cinematography: Craig William Films | Floral Design: Fete | Cake: Sylvia Weinstock | Catering: Restaurant Associates | Venue: Brooklyn Museum

We’ve Found the Solution for Your Sky High Heels!

I have this favorite pair of heels. They’re the kind of heels that give you confidence for days, but after a full night of dancing, I stumble around chanting “no pain, no gain” like it’s my new mantra.  My go-to solution? Compeed Blister Cushions, a serious must-have for any guest (or bride! or bridal party!) ready to tackle wedding season this summer. I mean, I work really, really hard on those dance moves. Let’s celebrate by diving into our fave heels, now wearable all day and night long.

Our Fave Sky High Heels
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Our Fave Sky High Heels
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We’ve all been there – you’re planning to rock a pair of gorgeous stillettos at your besties wedding or really, really want to say “I do” in your fave pair of peep toes, but are constantly dreading wearing the shoes you know will hurt once the night gets going.  Trust me, I get it.  Which is why I always, always make sure Compeed Blister Cushions (available exclusively at Walgreens) make an appearance in my Wedding Survival Kit… AND recommend it to all of my loved ones.  Keep a few handy in the pocket of your gown or clutch, and be sure to hand them out to your bridal party when the hours upon hours on their feet start to take its toll.  Because looking absolutely stunning on your Big Day doesn’t have to hurt. Turn to Compeed Blister Cushions and say “I do” in gorgeous + pain-free style. It really works.

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Fake Pro Baker Status with this Gorgeous (and easy) Cake

Want a great tip for impressing your friends beyond all measure and having something scrumptious to nibble on all at the same time? This cake! It’s summer party ready and all gussied up with pretty florals to give it that extra splash of charm. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with this number crafted by Earth + Sugar along with pretty florals by Anthology Co. and images by Alisa Ferris. Psst… find more here.

With summer just around the corner, we are gearing up for Sunday brunch, BBQs and fun in the sun. So with the lyrics of Alice Cooper’s ”School’s Out For Summer” resonating in our brains, Earth + Sugar, Anthology Floristry Co and Alisa Ferris teamed up to bring SMP readers a bright and beautiful baking and floral tutorial. Follow these easy steps, and your friends and family will be calling you “Martha Stewart” in no time.

Janderyn’s love of baking dates back to her childhood as well – although, back then she probably needed a step stool to reach the countertop! Since then, her ethereal and earthy cakes have won the hearts of many, and most importantly, that of her daughter, Sabrina, with whom she teaches the tricks of the trade.

Summer Cake Recipe

I N G R E D I E N T S

*makes 3 six inch layers or 2 eight inch layers

5 egg whites
3/4 cup whole milk
2 1/4 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups cake flour
1 3/4 cups sugar
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
12 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature and cut into cubes
4 lemons, zest

D I R E C T I O N S

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease, line with parchment, and flour three six inch pans or two eight inch pans.

In a medium bowl, combine and stir the egg whites, 1/4 cup of milk, lemon juice and the vanilla. Set aside. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the dry ingredients together on low speed for 30 seconds, then add the butter and remaining 1/2 cup of milk, and mix on low speed until just moistened. Increase to medium speed and mix for 90 seconds.

Scrape the sides of the bowl and begin to add the egg mixture in 3 separate batches; beat on medium speed for 20 seconds after each addition. Once it is well combines add the lemon zest and mix on low for a minute or so.

Divide the batter, spreading it evenly with a small offset palette knife.

Bake 25-35 minutes or until a cake tester comes clean when inserted into the center. Be very careful not to overbake. Check cake at 20 minutes, but not before, and once you feel it’s almost ready, set the timer for 2 minute intervals. Let cool on racks for 10 minutes before loosening the sides with a small knife, and invert onto greased wire racks. Gently turn cakes back up, so the tops are up and cool completely.

Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for up to 2 days, refrigerator for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 2 months.

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F R O S T I N G

This recipe can be made smaller by dividing ingredients in half if desired

1 lb salted butter, room temperature
12 cups of powdered sugar, sifted
1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste
4 lemons, extract juice from cake recipe above
2 clementines, juice and zest

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment cream the butter on medium speed. On low speed gradually add the sifted powdered sugar until well combined.

Once combined bring the mixer back to medium speed for 2-3 minutes until frosting is light and creamy. Slowly add the vanilla paste, citrus juices and zest on low speed.

Scrape the bowl and mix again for about 3 minutes, if you would like to add a pretty color use food gels or dye of your choice at this time and continue to mix.

I N S T R U C T I O N S

Cardboard cake circle, 6″ or 8”
Small offset spatula
Large offset spatula
Bread knife or cake carving knife

Remove your cool layers from the refrigerator, if you have frozen them, do allow them to defrost in the refrigerator beforehand. Trim the top layers to remove the top crust and place your first layer on a cardboard circle. To secure the cake to the board add a dab of frosting before placing the cake down on it.

With your offset spatula spread the buttercream on the first layer and repeat this step until all layers are completed.

With the long side of the large spatula smooth a light amount of buttercream on all sides to lightly coat the cake.

Decorate with fresh flowers!

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Baking Tips

Never frost a fresh baked cake, it will crumble to pieces!

Mise en place: measure and set all your ingredients and tools on the counter before starting to bake or layer, this will ensure a joyful and more accurate baking day.

Always have ingredients at room temperature before combining.

If you have a scale handy weigh your batter in each pan evenly so all layers bake the same size.

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While you’re at it, learn how to perfectly frost that pretty dessert

Photographer: Alisa Ferris | Florals: Anthology Co. | Cake: Earth And Sugar | Makeup Artist: März Makeup And Hair

This Classic Manhattan Wedding is Everything

This is the sort of day that reminds me just why I love a classic wedding.  From the beautiful details crafted by Polka Dot Events to the bride’s stunning Monique Lhuillier gown to the fabulous Hudson Mercantile setting, every last moment is woven with gorgeous traditional touches with just a hint of contemporary style.  Judy Pak was on hand to capture every moment perfectly and you can see them all right here in THE VAULT.

From Polka Dot Events… Melissa and Reed wanted a New York wedding that incorporated traditional and modern elements yet still flowed elegantly from ceremony to cocktail hour, dinner and dancing. They more than succeeded, with every piece of the day more impressive than the last. They started out getting ready at the Ace Hotel, then took a classic trolley car to the ceremony at the majestic St. Francis Xavier. Despite a cloudy day they still got gorgeous pictures on the Highline, and then went over to Hudson Mercantile for a night of drinks and dancing.

Everything about the reception was distinctly “them”. The cocktail hour on the roof of Hudson Mercantile featured a Cigar Roller, jazz band, and an Escort Card Mirror that Melissa made herself! The reception was perfected with lush florals by Creative Edge, chic lighting by Bentley Meeker, and four long tables that set the room perfectly for dancing, which was obvious since there was hardly anyone sitting all night! The guests left happily with Limoncello favors, picked out because of Melissa and Reed’s honeymoon in Italy.

Photography: Judy Pak Studio | Cinematography: Kiss The Bride Films | Coordination: Benor & Beik | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Cake: Empire Cake | Bride's Shoes: Louboutin | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Catering: Creative Edge Parties | Hair + Makeup: Michiko Boorberg | Venue: Hudson Mercantile | DJ + Band: Aria Melody DJ | Getting Ready Venue: Ace Hotel

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
The Trick Gisele Bundchen Uses To Make Her Eyes Look Bigger

It’s official, I’m trading in the smokey eye for this fun technique: lower lid-shadowing. Especially after seeing Gisele rock it with such a natural vibe. You might think that shadowing your lower lid seems counterintuitive (we’re trying to get rid of dark circles here right?). But this trick actually creates the illusion of big, beautiful eyes.

Thank you @hungvanngo @harryjoshhair and @katie_mossman for getting me ready for @fallontonight.

A photo posted by Gisele Bündchen (@gisele) on

Try skipping lower lining next time and go for a lower-lid shadow. All you need to pull off this look is a small eye shadow brush and/or blending brush and a shadow of your choosing. We love a smokey gray or brown like Gisele is wearing here. Sweep on the color right below your lower lash line, blend and top your lashes with a fresh coat of mascara for insta-sexy.

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How-to: Fresh & Dewy Makeup
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How-to: Fresh & Dewy Makeup
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How to Find the Right Foundation for Your Face

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These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Two Pomeranian Puppies Steal the Show at This Glam Wedding

Two of the cutest pups you’ve ever laid eyes on. A beautiful long sleeve lace wedding dress and matching peep toe lace pumps. A glamorous white reception overlooking the water. Oh, and this gorgeous Bride and Groom. It all adds up to one seriously stunning wedding. Fall in love with all the pretty, courtesy of DeRay & Simcoe and Senson Studio, in The Vault!

From The Bride…My husband and I met on a blind date at Bon Sai Restaurant through mutual friends. I realized he was the one when he let me finish his sesame flavored ice cream. My husband knew I was the one when I lent him my jacket (he was wearing a short sleeve shirt to show off his muscles on a very cold night). We survived our rather awkward and ultra-shy first meeting and now we are husband and wife!

Like other couples both of us were really stressed out during the preparation. Both of us never really had a dream or idea of what sort of wedding we wanted which made it even more difficult.

However, our friends, family, pastor Rae and fantastic vendors really helped us through the journey and the wedding day was perfect. Just as we planned and imagined.

One of the really coolest and amazing thing that happened during the photo-shoot was when we coincidentally met with Yang’s colleague’s dad and his two extremely cute puppies. He allowed us to take photos with the cutest Pomeranians. They were so photogenic! This all happened on the busy Saturday evening on King street. Diane and Amber had to quickly shoot the photos in between the busy incoming traffic. It was really crazy!

Also, on the wedding day everyone was emotional and happy but my father was especially happy and sad at the same time knowing that her baby girl is all grown up and married now. I am so grateful that all those beautiful moments were captured during the day and we can cherish the memories.

The reception at Acqua Viva was absolutely fantastic. The food was sensational. Umberto and his team made us feel very special and welcomed. Everything was perfect nothing to fault.

Our photographer DeRay and Simcoe absolutely exceeded our expectations. The special moments of our day were captured beautifully. Although some of our family members were not able to speak English, Amber and Diane were really helpful and made them feel very comfortable. We really want to thank Amber and Diane for not only to take natural and gorgeous photos but also making the day run smoothly.

We truly feel blessed and grateful for all the people who made it possible. Special thanks to all our friends, bridal party, Reverend Ray, DeRay and Simcoe photographers, Senson Studio Videographer, De La Rosa cakes & cupcakes, Elsie Tan Makeup Artist, Anastasia hair & makeup artist, Suzanne Siew makeup artist, Theressa’s Designs Bridal and Tuscany Bridal.

From DeRay & SimcoeHeeji and Yang were just total dream clients for us. Heeji’s parents are from Korea and Yang’s family are from China, such a delightful mix. We loved every minute of this stylish yet humble wedding.

We especially enjoyed how Heeji and Yang incorporated Yang’s much younger siblings into the wedding. Yang’s teenage brother Jack gave one of the most amazing best man speeches we have ever heard, even making his big brother cry. And Heeji’s dad cried at least 4 times seeing his beautiful daughter!

A gorgeous wedding with beautiful people inside and out.

Photography: Deray Simcoe | Cinematography: Senson Studio | Wedding Dress: Tuscany Bridal | Cake: De La Rosa Cupcakes | Ceremony Venue: St George's Cathedral | Reception Venue: Acqua Viva On The Swan | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Coco & Lola | Makeup: Elsie Tan | Hair: Anastasia Hair & Makeup | Groom's Attire: Marchesi | Transportation: West Coast Limos | Dress Alterations: Theressa Designs | Floral Design + Styling: Event Style

65 Unique Engagement Rings You’ll Definitely Say Yes To

Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but these nontraditional engagement rings are about to become the love of your life. You won’t find any brilliant cut solitaire diamond rings set in platinum here. Oh no, these rings are one-of-a-kind unique (and fabulous) — just like you. From bold stones to unexpected settings, these engagement rings will make you say “I definitely do.”

Unique Engagement Rings
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Unique Engagement Rings
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Plus, Everything You Need to Know About the 4 Cs

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Ring 101: The Cut

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More Engagement Rings to Fall in Love With

Gorgeous Gold Rings | The Ring for Your Zodiac Sign | What’s Your Ring Style?

Shades of Yellow Completely Transform This Chic Wedding Design

I’m always amazed how a little pop of color can infuse so much style and whimsy into a wedding. Take this day designed by Laurie Arons where she helped the couple pull off an unexpected color palette of shades of mustard yellow paired with midnight navy blue. From the Sarah Winward’s florals to A Day in May Design’s invitations, they carried the palette throughout and the drop-dead gorgeous gallery is from none other than Jose Villa.

From Laurie Arons Special EventsOur bride Wilhemlina loved the idea of using a bold and unusual color combination for her March wedding. Knowing that flowering mustard is prominent in Napa Valley that time of year, we decided to use bold mustard yellow, complimented by beautiful midnight navy, on the printed materials.

Since their venue Durham Ranch is in many ways a clean palate, we could really let the flowers be the design statement of the wedding. Each aspect of the wedding received a stand out installation of floral that progressed in richness of color.

Starting with the ceremony, Sarah Winward and her team created a full dramatic arch for the couple’s backdrop. The arch was constructed of incredible blooming white branches, which are only available for a couple weeks during the season. After cocktails, guests moved into the barn at Durham Ranch for dinner under a magical ceiling installation of green vines and delicate hanging lights. It covered 40 feet of ceiling and was a labor of love for the teams from Sarah Winward and Got Light, who executed it to perfection.

To close out the night, we revealed a dance tent built over the Durham Ranch pool that was full of bold yellow flowers. My favorite part of the tent was the bright yellow entryway valance Sarah constructed out of forsythia. It was unexpected, yet so perfect to set the fun tone inside.

Photography: Jose Villa Photography | Floral Design: Sarah Winward | Cake: Perfect Endings | Invitations: A DAY IN MAY DESIGN | Bride's Shoes: Dolce & Gabbana | Catering: Paula LeDuc Fine Catering & Events | Hair + Makeup: Mount Tabor Park | Calligraphy: Curlicue Designs Calligraphy | Lighting: Got Light | Ceremony Music: Carlos Reyes | Venue: Paula LeDuc Fine Catering & Events | Candles: Creative Candles | Event Design + Production: Laurie Arons Special Events | Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Photo Booth: MVS Studio | Reception Music + Band: West Coast Music | Rentals: Classic Party Rentals | Sound: Delicate Productions | Table Top Rentals: Casa de Perrin | Wedding Dress + Veil: Joan Gilbert Bride

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
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Royal Wedding Alert: Lady Charlotte Wellesley + Alejandro Santo Domingo Say “I Do”

There’s nothing quite like a royal wedding, especially when the bride wears an incredible off-the-shoulder Emilia Wickstead gown that leaves us speechless. Lady Charlotte Wellesley, a relative of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip, married billionaire Alejandro Santo Domingo in Íllora, Spain and you better believe the guest list included royals and celebrities alike. Take a peek at Lady Charlotte’s gown and scroll below for our favorite gowns to get the look.

Steal Lady Charlotte’s Look With An Off-the-Shoulder Dress!

Off the Shoulder Dresses
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Off the Shoulder Dresses
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More Celebrity Weddings

Get the Royal Wedding Look | Steal Celebs’ Bridal Style | 2015’s Biggest Celeb Weddings

Photography: Getty Images

If The Great Gatsby Took Place in the 21st Century, This Would Be the Wedding

After falling in love with The Great Gatsby in high school, this beautiful Bride knew she wanted her wedding to reflect the glamour evoked in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic. The vision got a modern makeover when she and her Groom found Willow Heights Mansion, opting to go with a “Modern Gatsby” theme with a focus on elegance, glamour and, most importantly, family. See how they pulled it off, thanks to onelove photography‘s beautiful photos, in The Vault!

From The Bride…Family is the most important part of our lives and our wedding was an absolute reflection of that. Our grandfather became ordained for the purpose of officiating our wedding, our guests were a beautiful blend of family and people who may as well be, our mothers helped us with the planning, my father created the music list, my uncle blessed our food, our niece was our flower girl, my sister-in-law carried our rings, my sister was my maid of honor, JP’s brother was his best man etc. For months leading up to the wedding my mother and I gathered as many wedding photos we could find of our family members and displayed them on top of the mansion’s fireplace, a focal piece of the ceremony and reception.

After reading (and falling in love with) The Great Gatsby in high school, I knew that I wanted my wedding to reflect the glamour and emotion seen and felt throughout the book. When we became engaged and fell in love with our venue, I knew we’d have to tweak the concept to fit the modern decor found throughout the mansion. We decided to go for a “Modern Gatsby” theme and focused our decor on elegance; we asked guests to come dressed as though they were partying with Jay Gatsby himself – they did not disappoint!

Planning a wedding can be stressful. When ever you begin to feel overwhelmed, remember that your goal is to be married and not to have a wedding. JP and I often held each other accountable when the other began to lose sight of what our real goal was.

Photography: onelove photography | Wedding Dress: Trudy’s Bridal | Stationery: Minted | Bride's Shoes: Steve Madden | Jewelry: Laurel Elaine Jewelry | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Rent The Runway | Hair + Makeup: Beauty Innovations | DJ: LUXE Design & Decor | Groom's Attire: Men's Wearhouse | Venue: Willow Heights Mansion | Cake Topper: Z Create Design | Catering + Cake: Willow Heights Mansion | Event Design, Floral Design + Coordination: Willow Heights Mansion | Flower Girl Headpiece: Heavenly Avonlee | Guestbook: Star Board Press | Robes: Just Cottons | Stamps: Underwood Letterpress | Veil + Accessories: Veiled Beauty

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
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A Beach in Thailand Was Their Engagement Session Backdrop!

What happens when you find yourself in Thailand with the one you love? You head to the beach for a shoot with Love Is My Favorite Color, of course. Think toes in the sand, salt in the air, and more crazy romantic moments than you can count. Go see it all in The Vault!

From Love Is My Favorite ColorSometimes we are so excited about something that we kind of miss having that fuzzy feeling when you have finally made your vision come to life. We were really looking forward to this engagement shoot.

Apart from being a drop dead gorgeous couple, Tara and Anton are the kind of people that inspire you to be a better person. The beauty they have inside , the kindness in every single gesture, the constant smiles on their faces, their ability to always give the very best of them to everyone & all the time and of course, the love they have for each other, is unbelievable. So yes, we had the perfect couple!

Tara’s family owns a Villa by the Layan beach so it was a pretty natural choice to have their engagement shoot right there. We wanted them to feel relaxed and to be able to show their incredible personalities. Having them inside the water was also a must. Because that’s what people do when they are at an amazing beach in Thailand!

The result was this sweet and sexy engagement shoot that we will forever remember as one of the most treasured ones in our hearts.

Photography: love is my favorite color | Dress: ASOS | Film Processing: Carmencita Film Lab | Lace Gown: Sarafina Dreams | Location: Layan Beach | Shirt: Uniqlo | Trousers: Custom

The Secret Sauce to the Perfect Party Home? This Crazy Cool Bar

I’ve seen plenty of basements finished with a small bar in the corner but this, my friends, is new level home bar goodness. Like the kind smack dab in the middle of it all that we would belly up to and never leave. It’s also the kind masterminded by Blackband Design that totally kicked off the entire look of this home. Inspired by that gorgeous spanish tile and looking to craft a space that marries LA cool and laid back So Cal vibes, this surf-side home was born. See the full tour snapped by Tessa Neustadt right here.

This 3,644 square foot home is nestled into a private surfing community in San Clemente, the Spanish Village by the sea. We were hired to do a full-scale remodel of the main floor including the entry, bar area, kitchen, dining room, living room and powder bath.

The home had previously been designed in a contemporary Balinese style with travertine tile floors, cherry cabinets and dark green granite throughout. The ceilings and walls were clad in wood paneling.

Our clients fell in love with the home and immediately saw the potential it had, but they wanted to freshen it up and get rid of all the dark wood throughout.

One of the first things we knew we wanted to do was enhance the open floor plan and lighten and brighten the space. The goal was to take the home in a more modern, coastal direction complementing our client’s personal style. The end result is what we like to refer to as LA meets OC, a cool LA vibe married with a casual warm SoCal style.

We instantly fell in love with this hand stamped marble carrara tile that had a cool modern Mediterranean vibe, and we used it as our inspiration point for the entire design of the home. Once we got the bar put together everything else fell into place. 

We were inspired by the Spanish influenced pattern on the tile and carried the blue and white theme throughout the rest of the home.

The home owners’ sense of style combined with our design aesthetic gave us the perfect balance to help design this home. We were so fortunate to work with these clients, they really had a clear sense of who they are and how they wanted their home to reflect their personality.

I think one of the first things that stands out was our use of color combinations through surface materials, tile, drapery and fabrics.

Sources

• All pillows throughout the home are custom made by Blackband Design
• Rattan occasional chairs in the loft/landing are by Palecek
• Custom Ladder bookshelf by Blackband Design
• Dinner Plates and Brass Silverware are from West Elm (napkin rings are and napkins are also from West Elm)
• Wine glasses are Camille Wine Glasses from Crate and Barrel
• Double chandeliers in the dining room are from Made Goods
• Green Velvet Chaise is custom made by Blackband Design through Lee Industries
• Entry mirror is from Palecek
• Vase on entry console is from Anthropologie and the gold hand vase next to it is from Arteriors
• Kitchen Island display items are from Crate + Barrel
• White garden stool by fiddle fig in living room is from Made Goods
• Living room throw blanket on sofa is from Sacks and Cloth
• Coasters on the bar are from Anthropologie
• White paint used throughout the home is Dunn Edwards DEW383 Cool December

Photography: Tessa Neustadt | Interior Design: Blackband Design

How to Pick Your Bridesmaids Without Pissing Everyone Off

Part of the fun of planning a wedding is planning a wedding with your best friends. But one of the biggest stresses of planning a wedding can be deciding who to include in your bridal party. We’ve got lots of cute ideas (and we mean lots) for how to ask your ‘maids, but how do you decide who to ask in the first place? With these ten tips, we’ve got you covered!

How to Pick Your Bridesmaids
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How to Pick Your Bridesmaids
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Plus, How to Be the Best Maid of Honor

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8 Tips for Being the Best Maid of Honor

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More Inspiration for Your Maids

10 FAQs Your Girls Will Have | How to Avoid Bridesmaid Drama | Easy Ways Your Maids Can Save