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Glamorous + Sophisticated Seaside Montauk Wedding

This, my darling Brides-to-be, is how you throw a fabulously chic beach wedding. Rather than choose the “expected and boring” nautical theme, this chic couple decided to make their wedding about the venue’s natural beauty “using tans, light water colors, beach woods, and pearlescent accents throughout the wedding.” See all the pretty from Ever SwoonTwo Of A Kind Rentals and Shannen Natasha in THE VAULT!

From The Bride…When Josh and I got engaged during the summer of 2014, we didn’t know where to begin with planning. Since we grew up in too very different areas (Josh is from Louisiana and I’m from Connecticut), we thought New York City would be the perfect middle ground for our wedding.

But after lots of searching, it become clear to us that the city lacked something we really wanted on our big day–which was an atmospheric outdoor setting.

At the suggestion of my father, we visited Gurney’s Inn in late September on a beautiful end-of-summer day, and we were instantly hooked. The resort had gorgeous sweeping views of the Atlantic from its decks, making it the perfect setting for our wedding.

Once we locked in our date, we instantly knew what we didn’t want our theme to be. Despite being by the beach, we refused to have a nautical theme—it felt way too expected and boring! Instead, with the help of my brother, we decided to make our wedding theme more about the natural beauty of the beach, using tans, light water colors, beach woods, and pearlescent accents throughout the wedding.

Selecting Gurney’s was a bit of a gamble since the resort was due for renovations with no guarantee of them being completed by our wedding day. In the end, the changes to the resort totally exceeded our expectations, the new Gurney’s felt fresh, modern, and like a whole new resort.

The day of turned out to be a gorgeous early summer day, allowing us to take advantage of all of the resort’s outdoor areas. We took our pictures in the maze of decks across the property, we had our ceremony on the tented upper deck over looking the beach, cocktail hour outside, and a beach bonfire after the reception.

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Photography: Shannen Natasha | Event Planning: ever swoon | Floral Design: Sag Harbor Florist | Hair + Makeup: Face Time Beauty Concierge | Band: Hank Lane Music | Groom's Attire: Alton Lane | Venue: Gurney's Montauk Resort And Spa | Rentals: Two of a Kind | Rentals: Party Rentals Ltd

9 Steps To Perfectly Kissable Lips

With another New Year’s Eve quickly approaching, we’re trading out our mistletoes for the much anticipated ball drop, a.k.a. more kisses! And when it comes to getting fancy for the festivities, we think dressing up your lips is just as important as picking out something sparkly to wear. Read on for 9 quick steps to perfectly kissable lips!

New Year's Eve Lips
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New Year's Eve Lips
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Find more fashion + beauty inspiration here:

Bridal Beauty for All Skin Tones | Bold Bridal Lip Looks We Love | Wedding Beauty Timeline

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10 Photo-Worthy Moments to Recreate for Your New Year’s Eve Wedding

If I had a New Year’s Eve wedding, my first wish would have been to have a bubbly tower as impressive as this one. (I’m still going to create one someday for the fun of it!) So, this one’s for you NYE-to-be’s. Ten magnificent moments that fit the celebratory vibe to a T, and we can’t wait to see how they inspire you!

NYE Wedding Moments
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NYE Wedding Moments
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More New Year’s Eve Wedding Inspiration:

Champagne Countdown Cocktails | 10 Steps To Kissable New Year’s Eve Lips

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Hangover Cures: 14 Ways to Survive New Year’s Day

Chances are that on New Year’s Day we’ll all be feeling a little worse for wear. Between the flowing champagne, colorful noisemakers, and the celebratory countdown that lasted well past 12, New Year’s day is the perfect opportunity for us to rewind, reset, and revive. Which is why we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite ways to shake off the fun from the New Year’s Eve and start the New Year off right!

Hangover Cures
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Hangover Cures
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New Year, New Day!

Best ever bloody mary recipe | Cute New Year Engagement | Hangover Essentials

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Elegant Highlands, NC Wedding

Sawyer Baird has this way of capturing weddings that leaves us in awe time and time again. Her camera turns moments into works of art, and this elegant summer day is no exception. It’s a love-at-first-sight kind of gallery waiting in The Vault, and one I promise you’ll never want to leave.

From The Bride…Russ proposed on a Charleston plantation by sitting me on a beautiful live oak branch, tying the ring box to our beloved dog’s collar, and getting down on one knee. Although both of us were born in the Midwest, we fell in love with the South while living briefly in Asheville. Although we moved to LA shortly after our engagement, when it came time to plan the wedding, we knew it would be in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

We wanted our wedding to be elegant yet unfussy with amazing food, Southern charm and stunning natural setting that would need little adornment. We found all of that at gorgeous Lonesome Valley. We were blessed with the most gorgeous spring day, with mountain laurel in full bloom, blue skies, and dramatic Carolina clouds rising over the box canyon.

Planning a wedding is a full-time job and I knew early on I needed help. My amazing mother and mother-in-law took on the brunt of the details with the help of our planner, Elizabeth, whose local contacts and experience was incredibly helpful for us planning from afar. I was determined our wedding would be beautiful but not lavish and I aimed to invest in the things that really mattered to us – food, photography, and a beautiful tent that could accommodate everyone in case it poured rain (but it didn’t, thank goodness!)

I work in the arts as the director of a contemporary art gallery and my husband is an architect, so suffice it to say we had very strong feelings about the design and decor—however translating that into a wedding is not easy and I was lucky enough to find our stylist Sarah Ingram, whose impeccable taste and eye mirrored mine. I trusted her completely; we had a modest budget and she was amazing in helping us invest in details that made the most impact. Our decor was a neutral palette, with pops of grey, soft blue and buttery yellow which felt sophisticated yet understated. My bridesmaids selected their own dresses from Jenny Yoo’s line in various shades of grey and blue.

Finding my dress was a miracle of patience and good luck. I quickly learned that I was not a fan of traditional dresses, nor was I prepared to spend thousands of dollars on my dress. I was on a mission to find something effortless, classic and romantic and I was determined not to spend more than $2,000. After being so disappointed at several shops, I fell in love with the Rebecca Schonoveld separates at the Sentimentalist in Atlanta, the most amazing dress shop. My dress had a tulle skirt that felt like air and a classic, simple bodice that stayed up all night without straps.

Two days before the wedding I found my sparkling caplet from BHLDN and had it overnighted on impulse to the wedding. All my wedding jewelry were sentimental family heirlooms; I wore my beloved Nana’s pearls and my great great grandmother’s vintage diamond watch, my wedding band from the 1930s and was my husband’s late grandmother. My earrings were my something borrowed, vintage diamond and citron drops lent from a very dear friend.

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Photography: Sawyer Baird | Event Planning: I Do Events | Floral Design: Emerson Events | Wedding Dress: Rebecca Schoneveld | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Hair And Makeup: Claudia Verduzco | Calligraphy: Sarah Ingram | Venue: Lonesome Valley | Bridal Boutique: The Sentimentalist | Dress Cape: BHLDN | Rentals: Southern Vintage

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
Pomegranate Spritzer

We have a great festive drink that will get you in the holiday spirit. It is simple and quick to make and will have all your guests raving! It fit right in with our Movie Night New Years Celebration and is just the thing to raise a glass with this New Year’s Eve. Say hello to the Pomegranate Spritzer; a yummy libation that pairs well with salty snacks like nuts and sweet treats like chocolate! xoxo Alexis

Pomegranate Spitzer
prep time
5 Minute/s
cook time
total time
5 Minute/s
Serves 0Ingredients
  • Ginger Beer
  • Pomegranate
  • Ginger Syrup
  • Cinnamon
  • Ice
  • Shaker
Instructions
  1. Fill shaker with Ice
  2. Add 1 cup Ginger Beer
  3. Next add 1/3 cup Pomegranate
  4. 1 tablespoon Ginger Syrup
  5. Lastly sprinkle a dash of Cinnamon on top
  6. Shake well

Photography: Ally Twitchell | DIY: The Shift Creative

Alexis

Contributing Editor: Party DIY
Celebrate the New Year Countdown with Soft Natural Waves

Got NYE on the mind? We sure do and as we bid adieu to 2015 we’re dreaming about which chic hair-do we’ll welcome the New Year with. Thankfully our newest hair tutorial has got us covered and you better bet we’ll be sporting a headful stylish waves once the clock strikes 12 – think Blake Lively’s infamous ‘do meets midnight. Commence the countdown and learn how you can get the look below. Press play!

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How to Get Soft Natural Waves

instructions

step-1

Begin by sectioning off all of your hair except some underneath. Spray hair with light hairspray.

step-2

Curl the section of your hair and work you way up section by section continue spraying and curling hair.

step-3

Make sure to curl the hair in the front away from your face. Tousle hands through your hair to losen the curls.

step-4

Take small section from the front of your hair and twist it towards the back of your head and pin it. Take another section for the front of your hair and pin it in the back. Add a small accessory clip to the twisted section if desired.

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Photography: Leila Brewster Photography | Hair and Makeup: Jennie Kay Beauty

New Years Movie Night In

The Shift Creative threw an alternative to a night out on the town to a movie night in for New Years Eve with some of our close friends! This inspiration shoot is surely going to make you want to create some snacks, turn on your favorite flick, and ring in the New Year under the lights! Ally Twitchell captured all the festive inspiration! xoxo Alexis of The Shift Creative

From the small bites to the mocktail, this party has all you’ll need for a fun night in! A party isn’t a party without some fun snacks! Let’s talk about those crostinis! Can you say YUM?! It’s always good to have a variety of food for your guests to nibble on, and these were the perfect addition to our movie night! We also created a S’mores dip for sharing which was perfect for a night outside, snuggled under blankets, and looking at the stars.

Jess Hong created custom popcorn bags with fun phrases like “Popcorn and Chill” and ‘Enjoy the Show” that can definitely be customized for your style and theme! These details really make an intimate party stand out above the rest!

To design a cozy space we layered rugs, pillows, and stools to create an outdoor lounge. For your party, comfort is key and don’t be surprised if you end up sleeping out there!

If you want to stay a little more low key, we made a mocktail that can be easily customized to fit your taste buds. Think ginger beer, fresh pomegranate and cinnamon all set upon a custom wooden tray by Relevant Raw! This was all set up on a bar cart, and served bartender style for a fun, and creative twist to any movie night!

We hope that this inspiration makes you want to have a fun, cozy night in for New Years Eve or any night for that matter!

Photography: Ally Twitchell | Event Design: The Shift Creative | Calligraphy/Illustration : Jess Hong | Wood Decor : Relevant And Raw

Alexis

Contributing Editor: Party DIY
Romantic + Rustic Spanish Oaks Ranch Wedding

This, loves, is rustic romance done oh-so-right.  Think pastel-filled pretties from Adornments Flowers And Finery, sweetly crafted wooden touches coordinated by Ciel Bleu Event Design and a breathtaking outdoor reception underneath the trees.  The always awesome Jen Rodriguez was on hand to capture every beautiful moment and THE VAULT is a total must-see.

Colors
Styles
Rustic

From the Bride… Our proposal story.  We were headed down to SLO because James was going to participate in the Cal Poly triathlon held at Lake Lopez. Earlier in the week, he suggested we make a reservation to go out for a nice dinner Friday night at one of our favorite restaurants in San Luis Obispo, NOVO. We drove down to SLO Friday morning, and checked into our hotel.  After settling in, James took off on his bicycle to a local pool to get a quick swim in before the race, while I did some shopping downtown. After browsing through a few stores, I walked into Banana Republic to see if there are any good deals. Then, out of no where, James comes up and taps me on the shoulder! What the heck! I thought he was swimming.

Turned out there was a swim meet at the pool, so he wasn’t able to use it. He had come downtown to find a “nice shirt” to wear to dinner. (Suspicious if you know James and his feelings towards “nice shirts.”)  I didn’t question it, and he ended up getting a very nice button up shirt. Shortly after, we met up with our good friend Michelle and her boyfriend, Leland, to watch the Cal Poly men’s basketball team get crushed in the NCAA tournament. Afterwards, we headed back to the hotel. James brought out a wrapped gift and told me that he had found something downtown earlier in the day that he thought I might like, so he had just bought it for me. He also said he saw a store similar to Paper Source (my favorite store) in SLO, so he had them wrap up the present in this really pretty turquoise wrapping paper. But, I wasn’t allowed to open it until dinner. This would seem suspicious, but the box was large and pretty heavy – I actually thought it might be a book of some sort. So, we got dressed up and went to the restaurant.

We got an awesome table at the restaurant, on their deck overlooking the creek. Michelle’s sister, Amanda, happened to be at NOVO also, celebrating her friend’s bachelorette party, and she sent over two glasses of wine! At this point, I was pretty suspicious, thinking she was in on some secret that James had told Michelle, and Michelle had told her. Turns out, she had no idea what was going on, they just had a lot of wine at their table and she was being nice!

We ordered way too much food, had some good wine, and at the end of dinner I was finally allowed to open my present! James had been acting so normal the whole time (which was why I didn’t think he was actually going to propose), but as I was unwrapping the box I could see him squirming around in his chair. By the time I had opened it, he was down on one knee next to me, saying nice words that I was paying absolutely no attention to (sorry James!) and I was looking at a cute picture frame with my ring tied in the middle of it! Soo, I said “yes” and we were standing/hugging/etc. and then realized not a single person in the restaurant had witnessed this… so we sat back down! Eventually, the waitress came over and I asked her to take our picture, which she did, and then proceeded to announce our engagement to the whole restaurant! I’m sure I turned red, but I was too excited to care.

Afterwards, we headed over to Creeky Tiki to have some celebratory drinks with Michelle, Leland, Amanda, and others, then on to Bulls for more drinks. James and I ended the night by walking back to the hotel, stopping along the way for some Taco Bell, like old times. It was a great night!

When it came to planning our wedding, we were looking for an outdoor venue in a beautiful setting in the San Luis Obispo area. Spanish Oaks Ranch met all of our requirements – beautiful trees, rolling hills, nice architecture, plenty of space, indoor and outdoor options, easy parking, etc. Azurae Shults was recommended by several people who said she is the best of the best. Two Cooks wowed us when we went to taste our proposed menu! We chose Photographer, Jen Rodriguez, based on a glowing recommendation from friends, Amy & Luke.

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See more Rustic Weddings in THE VAULT!

Photography: Jen Rodriguez Photography | Coordination: Ciel Bleu Event Design | Floral Design: ADORNMENTS flowers + finery | Wedding Dress: Angel Rivera | Cake: The Cakery | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Catering: Two Cooks Catering | Hair And Makeup: Twist Studios | Band: Diamond Dave | Venue: Spanish Oaks Ranch

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
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Romantic Lake Geneva Summer Wedding

These two cuties met at law school, and as photographer Heather Cook Elliott noted, you may think that predicts a serious nature between them – and you’d be so wrong. Laughter and smiles spill out of every one of Cook’s photos from their summer celebration planned by Lola Event Productions. And with Toast & Jam behind the music, it was a good time from start to finish – join me in the VAULT to see it all!

From Heather Cook Elliott Photography… Jessie and Austin met in law school, a start to their story that suggests they might be a rather serious couple when in fact the opposite is true. They are fun and funny and manage to make being incredibly stylish look really easy. I think their wedding style says a lot about who they are in their everyday lives and they are the kind of people I love to photograph: they approached their wedding with a sort of no-fuss attitude mixed with boho charm made elegant by the fact they they are, well, really put together people (they are lawyers, after all.) Lake Geneva held up it’s end of the deal too, offering their combined out-of-state and Wisconsin friends and families a delightful place to relax and unwind on a late summer weekend. I love that they married lakeside at the classic Lake Geneva resort that is The Abbey, and followed the “I do’s” up with the first of two cocktail hours (2!) before heading to the stunningly beautiful Yerkes Observatory (and a University of Chicago institution) for bridal party fun. Then the always lovely Riviera Ballroom played host to cocktail hour number 2 and dinner plus a riotous dance party made possible by Chicago area favorite Toast & Jam. And finally I love that Jessie and Austin enjoyed every second of it – enjoyed the tiny moments together and the big moments in front of everyone, the heartfelt hugs and the rousing toasts – every second of everything.

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Photography: Heather Cook Elliott Photography | Event Planning: LOLA Event Productions | Floral Design: Frontier Flowers - Fontana | Wedding Dress: Robert Bullock | Cake: Lakeland Bakery | Ceremony Venue: The Abbey Resort and Spa | Reception Venue: The Riviera Ballroom | Reception Venue: Yerke's Observatory | Bridesmaids' Dresses: J.Crew | Makeup: Sonia Roselli | Hair + Makeup: Mobile Makeup | DJ: Toast and Jam | Band: Gabriel's Horns | Groom's Attire: Formally Modern Tuxedo | Transportation: DMI Limousine | Paper Goods: Chena Design | Rentals: Lakes Area Rental

Organic + Colorful Mallorca Wedding Inspiration

Nope you’re not dreaming, this colorful Mallorca shoot from Ana Lui Photography is the real deal. A bevvy of beauty graced with minimalistic details, this gallery is the ultimate inspiration for the Bride looking for chic organic perfection. It’s the type of natural beauty that we simply can’t get enough of and we’ve got it all waiting in THE VAULT!

From Ana Lui PhotographyWhen Lisa from Isla & Smith called me saying she is flying over to Mallorca and she had booked an amazing villa for the weekend I was the first one on the next plane to Palma!

Inspiration for this shoot was showing the natural beauty of Mallorca’ countryside. We wanted to use only local products, local food and Lisa sourced everything from stunning flowers to beautiful bridal dresses. The villa itself was like a treasure box. In every corner you could find unique pieces of decoration, stunning pear cutlery, chunky wooden chopping boards, artesenial china, Mallorquin straw hats, rugs and endless alleyways of lavender leading all the way to the natural sea water pool made of sand stone.

Our stunning model, Isabelle, had the longest and most gorgeous hair in the world! Our super star hair and makeup stylist, Diva Borrelli, kept the look as natural as possible – we wanted to show the raw, real beauty of Isabelle.

None of the photos are retouched or photoshopped. We kept it all simple and organic. Shot entirely on film, medium format, with Contax 645 and Fuji400H. I really love how fresh, airy and feminine this session is for me. It was a great collaboration between 4 girls in love with nature and being in the moment. We literally listened to Frank Sinatra, ate fresh food and shot the whole day till the sun went down. I would love this shoot to be an inspiration for organic, minimalistic brides but yet quite feminine and nature loving.

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Photography: Ana Lui Photography | Wedding Planning: Isla And Smith Wedding Design | Floral Design: Vanda | Wedding Dress: The White Gallery | Cake: La Consigna Port D'Andratx | Hair And Makeup: Diva Borrelli | Venue: Finca Oliva | Film Processing: Carmencita Film Lab | Model: OTBT

Classic Long Island Wedding

An unexpected cold front made a surprise appearance at this darling duo’s Big Day, but one look at their smiling faces and the breathtaking gallery captured by Kt Crabb Photography and you definitely wouldn’t know it.  From the bride’s happy moments spent bonding with her besties to the groom’s crazy cool dance (!) to the ah-mazing sparkler exit.  See it all in THE VAULT right here.

From Kt Crabb Photography… Megan and Daniel met casual through friends during their college years and quickly became good friends. Friendship turned to a little something more and soon they were inseparable. Although they met and had a history in Florida their new beginnings started to take place in NY. They truly started a life together there and settled in to call it home sweet home.

In fact, Long Island is more than just a home to these two. It’s a place of history for Megan’s family. Land’s End is the exact spot her parents said “I do.” Illness took Megan’s beloved mom away too soon, but Megan knew immediately that it was the perfect place to honor her mom and celebrate her new life as a Mrs.

The sun came out as the wedding party made their prep for the day. The ceremony was all in place when a surprise cool front decided to make an appearance and bring wind and rain. Quick thinking from Land’s End kept everyone dry as Megan made her walk down the aisle. Soon after, these two danced the night away as they started their journey of forever, hand in hand.

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Photography: Kt Crabb Photography | Cinematography: Eli Meyer Studio | Floral Design: Carolines Flower Shoppe | Cake: Audrey's Fine Baked Goods | Catering: Lands' End | Hair And Makeup: Peter Alexandra Salon Spa | DJ: Castle Entertainment | Venue: Lands' End | Photography - Assistance: Stephanie Gamble

Classic Vermont Wedding

Rich in meaningful moments and elegant stylings, this is the type of affair that fills your day with happy. From the bride’s stunning Anne Barge gown to the breathtaking florals from The Lily of the Valley to the thoughtful details so carefully chosen by the new Mr. and Mrs., including the date selected for their celebration.  See every moment from Jasmine Tara Photography in THE VAULT.

From the Bride… I entered into the wedding world with absolutely no knowledge of top designers, trends or what style I wanted – all I was sure of was a classic vision without any overwhelming glitz or embellishments. I tried on several gowns before I knew that I wanted to go with a form fitting and tailored design.

I decided to take a solo trip to Malinda Macari’s store, Your Dream Bridal, without my mom, in favor of a clear head needed to make a decision on my own. Lucky for me, Malinda’s peaceful boutique provided me with the perfect space to find the gown I would later call my own. My first love about the Anne Barge Collette dress was the color. Being a red-head, champagne was a hue I felt complemented me and my vision for the day. I also loved the structure of the dress, it had that “wow effect” I was looking for without being too flashy. The pleats and buttons were a beautiful addition to a simple gown, which I made even more unique by accessorizing with a retro gold veil and a handmade beaded belt. My mom ended up coming back with me once I knew I had found ‘the dress,’ which ended with the emotional reaction I was hoping for and gave me every sense of confidence in my choice.

As for Michael and me. We met online and swiped right.  The old fashioned “Hey, I have a friend I would like to set you up with,” seems to be a thing of the past!

Coincidentally, we only lived one block away from each other in Charlestown, MA. Our relationship went pretty quickly and within nine months, Michael proposed. He was finishing up his MBA and working full time. I planned a weekend getaway in Kennebunkport for his 34th birthday. On our way up we stopped at Nubble Lighthouse in York, ME. He decided to ask me to marry him on his birthday…I was completely shocked! It was such a memorable weekend.

We decided since we were engaged, why wait to get married? We found a venue and set a date within a month and got married three months later! Our wedding date took place on September 11th, 2015. Michael spent much of his life in the Army, fighting for our country in different parts of the world. September 11th has had a lasting impact on all of our lives. Michael and some of his friends in attendance spent multiple years at war as a result of that day. Yet, we chose to marry on this day to also remember it as a day of celebration in the future.

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Photography: Jasmine Tara Photography | Cinematography: Clark+Walker Studio | Coordination: Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home | Floral Design: Lily Of The Valley | Wedding Dress: Anne Barge | Catering: Pangaea | Makeup: B Boutique | DJ: Top Hat Entertainment | Groom's Attire: J. Hilburn | Venue: Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home | Bridal Boutique: Your Dream Bridal

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
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Colorful North Carolina Wedding

I love a duo that isn’t afraid of a little color.  And these darling sweeties?  They’re embracing vibrant fuchsia and pink in the most wonderful of ways.  Think a drop-dead gorgeous al fresco celebration filled with romantic florals from MEWS Designs, pretty paper goods from Janine Rae Designs and breathtaking images from Robyn Van Dyke.  See every last moment sitting pretty in THE VAULT, then stay tuned for a sweet film from Simile Productions below.

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From Robyn Van Dyke PhotographyKristin and Brandon’s wedding day was so beautiful and overflowing with joy and laughter! It was a perfect, sunny October day and The Bradford was the perfect location for them and their gorgeous outdoor ceremony and garden reception!

As soon as we arrived, every one was full of excitement and anticipation, and we loved witnessing all the sweet moments shared between them and their families! There were gorgeous details and amazing paper goods galore, as well… thanks to Kristin’s sister who is the talented lady behind Janine Rae Design!

One of my favorite moments of the day was when Brandon saw Kristin for the first time walking down the aisle… his eyes immediately glistened with tears and thankfully the pastor had a tissue on hand! After they exchanged their heartfelt and hilarious vows, they were joyfully announced husband and wife and we were able to take lots of pretty portraits of this gorgeous couple before they danced the night away underneath the stars and twinkling lights!

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Photography: Robyn Van Dyke Photography | Cinematography: Scott Simerly Of Simile Productions | Coordination: Mary Lutz Of A Lovely Affair Weddings | Floral Design: Mews Designs | Wedding Dress: Wtoo | Cake: Sweet Memories Bakery | Invitations: Through The Veil | Bridesmaids' Dresses: David's Bridal | Catering: Beau Catering | Hair And Makeup: Kellsie Hazinski At Tanas Cary | DJ: Anything Music | Groomsmen Attire: Jos. A. Bank | Officiant: Robin Renteria | Venue: The Bradford

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
Elegant Antique Art Bar Wedding

We’ve seen our fair share of guest-wowing venues, but today’s Antique Art Bar wedding might be one of the most unique yet. Lit up and glowing with lamps galore, these two said their I do’s in old-fashioned style with the widest grins to boot. Dana Fernandez followed their every move and the results are packaged pretty right here in THE VAULT gallery!

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From Dana Fernandez PhotographyFrom the minute we met Bailey and David it was #couplecrush at first site! They were a 100% perfect match to our ideal clientele! They were relaxed, fun, sweet, loving and absolutely amazing together! Seriously, what more can a husband and wife wedding photography team ask for?!

From start to finish, Bailey and David’s wedding day filled with absolute beauty, love and so much fun! From the drop dead gorgeous flowers from Flower Power Productions and the show-stopping hair and makeup by Hey Lovely Makeup, to the beautiful and delicious cakes by Buttercup, it was all we could have wished for and more!

Bailey and David’s wedding was held at a one-of-a-kind Antique Art Bars in the heart of downtown Houston, where hand painted glass antique lamps cover the ceiling and walls. The wedding ceremony was oh-so-romantic with a flickering glow emitted by all of the lamps. After the ceremony, Bailey and David, along with their guests danced the night away to the amazing Royal Dukes band and ended the night with a fun sparkler exit! We’re so thankful to have met these two and to have been a part of such a beautiful and loving day!

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Photography: Josh & Dana Fernandez | Cinematography: Retoro Films | Wedding Planning: Eventology Weddings | Floral Design: Flower Power Productions | Wedding Dress: Yoana Baraschi | Cake: Buttercup Bakery | Invitations: He Saw Sparks | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Love Lane | Hair And Makeup: Hey Lovely Makeup | Groom's Attire: Tommy Hilfiger | Venue: Nouveau Antique Art Bar | Bridal Boutique: BHLDN | Candles: Flower Power Productions | Film Processing: The Find Lab | Getting Ready Venue: Magnolia Hotel

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
Indiana Classic Garden Wedding

Take a classic garden celebration and add a generous dose of color plus blooms by Kelly Lenard, and I’m on board. It’s everything we love about summer nuptial with design moments (hello invite suite and family crest!) that feel totally fresh. Thanks to Lauren Baling for the perfect moments captured, all waiting in THE VAULT.

From The Bride…The vision for my wedding was very classic and organic. Much of my inspiration came from the natural setting of the garden we used for our ceremony. Different shades of pink were used for the bridesmaids dresses and florals to add color. The rest of the colors were very neutral to complement the outdoor setting. Kelly went over and beyond the with the florals!

The highlight of the day was walking down the aisle with my dad and seeing Joshua’s reaction. I could feel and see how raw and real his love was for me at that moment! We wanted our ceremony to be closely connected to us, so we our fathers! Joshua’s father was able to officiate the wedding, and my father read scriptures and led in prayer. Overall, having the people we love most celebrating our love was the best wedding gift we could’ve received, and I’m so thankful Lauren was able to capture our love so beautifully!

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Photography: Lauren Balingit | Floral Design: Kelly Lenard | Wedding Dress: She Said Yes | Invitations: Signora E Mare | Ceremony Venue: Hamstra Gardens | Reception Venue: Sandy Pines Pavilion | Makeup: Melissa Marshall | DJ: Alex Balingit | Calligraphy & Family Crest: Rebeca Lynn Calligraphy | Film Processing: PhotoVision Prints

The Best DIYs of 2015

I’ll admit it, I’m not much of a DIYer. But these fabulous DIYs from Style Me Pretty Living over the past year are enough to convert me into one. From Ikea Hacks to DIY pillows to DIY confetti poppers, these projects are sure to add a little pretty into your life—and take you one step closer to being as incredible and creative as Abby Larson. Hey, a girl can dream, right?

The Best DIYs of 2015
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The Best DIYs of 2015
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Beautiful Save the Dates from Minted + A Promotion!

The perfect way to wrap up the holiday weekend?  With pretty paper goods from Minted, of course. Think a brand new + totally beautiful Save the Date Collection featuring some of the most ah-mazing designs you will ever lay your eyes upon.  From soft watercolors to crazy cool glitter to simple, classic beauties, there’s something for everyone.  Scroll below for a look.

With Minted, covering your Big Day in seriously gorgeous stationery has never been easier… or more awesome.  That’s because Minted’s community of independent artists offers up a plethora of unique designs in everything from Save the Dates to invitations to wedding programs and decor.  Which means a wedding day that is totally one-of-a-kind, consistent AND coordinated; from that brilliant wedding website to the place cards + table numbers that show your guests just where to get the party started.

Whether you’re planning to say “I do” in an uber-romantic garden or partying the night away high above the city in a modern loft celebration, Minted’s line of fabulous new Save the Dates has a design more than perfect for you and yours… and in a variety of different formats and price points.  So that crazy cool celebration you are planning?  Your guests will know just what to expect when they receive that postcard, magnet or foil-pressed beauty.  Not to mention that Minted offers FREE guest addressing on envelopes, plus name printing on table numbers and place cards.  Sooo awesome.

Promotion

Just starting to plan your big day?  Receive 10 FREE wedding samples with the code SMP10FREE now through January 31, 2016!

Already have your invitation suite narrowed down?  Today is the last day you can receive 15% Minted’s wedding invitation suite!

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Raspberry Champagne to Guarantee a Sweet 2016

If you ask me, New Year’s Eve is not New Year’s Eve without Champagne. And this Champagne cocktail from The Effortless Chic (muddled raspberries and rock candy—yes please!) takes the time-old tradition up a few fabulous notches and is the perfect sweet start to an equally fabulous 2016!

From The Effortless Chic… This little treat could not be easier to make and it’s gorgeous to look at, too!  My favorite touch?  These heart-shaped ice cubes from Williams-Sonoma!  Ahh!  I’m already brainstorming other uses for them.

Raspberry Champagne
prep time
cook time
total time
Serves 2Ingredients
  • 2 heart shaped cubes of ice
  • 2 cans of Sofia champagne
  • 2 sticks of pink rock candy
  • 2 tablespoons raspberries
Instructions
  1. Add one cube of ice to each glass.
  2. Pour in champagne and add one tablespoon of raspberries to each glass. Muddle raspberries gently with rock candy and leave rock candy in as a garnish.

Recipe + Styling: The Effortless Chic

The Best Parties and Celebrations of 2015

As 2015 comes to a close, we are sifting through the archives of a year of fabulous parties. Showers, girly brunches and dinners under the stars. These are just a few of the many fetés we’ve had the pleasure of blogging. Sift through 30 of our top faves and get ready to be inspired for all the parties to come.

Our Favorite Celebrations of 2015
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Our Favorite Celebrations of 2015
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