Florida Weddings

Admittedly, I am super un-crafty.  With all of my effort, there’s not a DIY bone in my body.  So when I come across a wedding as gorgeous as this sweet affair, I am all sorts of impressed.  Because this, loves, is DIY at its finest, from that gorgeous gown to the yummy cakes to the paper goods all crafted by seriously awesome family + friends.  See it all captured by Ricky Stern right here.

From Ricky Stern Photography…This gorgeous wedding was a true DIY masterpiece by the bride and groom (as well as their family and friends).  Here is the bride, Stephanie, running down each item they crafted by hand:

• The tree stumps: we actually went to my uncle’s land in Naples to cut down a tree to make those tree stumps.  We made a family trip out of it.
• The three cakes were made by my best friends (chocolate, vanilla, and red velvet).
• The Podium used during the ceremony and all the rest of the directional signs throughout the event were made and designed by Lester and myself.
• The guestbook I made with the Shutterfly website.
• The card box we bought and designed ourselves, Lester added the Plexiglas for safety precautions.
• All the mason jars and flowers in them were bought by us and my family and I put them all together the night before. My mother actually made the arrangement for the large tool box on the book signing table that came out beautiful.
• My mother-in-law made my wedding dress and veil.
• The seating chart was created by myself and another girlfriend of mine.
• The candy station and the candy station sign was created by my sister and myself.
• The invitation was made between a large group of us (family and friends).

Photography: Ricky Stern Photography | Floral Design: Le Printemps Florist | Catering: Amelia and Carmen | DJ: Entertainment Management Group | Ceremony / Reception: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden | Photography - Assistance: Randy Borges | Vintage Furniture Rental: The Salvage Snob "unique salvage & vintage rentals"

If you’re looking for a love session recipe like no other, we’ve got you covered with this loveliness my dears. Mix one part Haring Photography, one part Vizcaya Museum And Gardens, two parts stylish bride & groom-to-be, top with sunshine and voila! A little shake here, a snap there and you’ve got a combo that will quench any love-craving. See it all here!

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From Haring Photography… It was a beautiful day for Alisha + Rahim’s fine art vintage engagement session at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Miami Florida. The classic grounds set by water was a perfect place for their engagement session. Alisha and Rahim choose to wear casual and classic outfits that reflect their natural romantic style.

Photography: Haring Photography | Venue: Vizcaya Museum And Gardens | Cognac Strap Heels: Zara | Coral Top: Akira | Floral Crown: Akira | Ivory Skirt: Akira | White Lace Dress: Akira

I thought a New England Spring was pretty darn fabulous but a Floridian Spring? It might just take the cake. This inspiration crafted by Anthology Co. and Gianny Campos Photography is a colorful spread peppered with sparkle and the outdoor beauty of the South East. And whenever a naked cake is involved, like this beaut by Cloud 9 Bakery, we’re all in. Take a peak at the pretty gallery for even more.

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With spring knocking on our door, I was eager to do a shoot which would embody a “Floridian Spring.” The shoot took place in February, and as all my fellow Floridians know, our winters are blessed with beautiful weather and flora. Our inspiration was sparked with some lively colorful dishes found at Anthropologie. The location, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens, was as well a source filled with Florida natives as well as an abundance of flowers and other exotic foliage. This location accomplished the more organic local approach we had envisioned.

We picked some leaves and blooms from our backyard such as begonias, bleeding heart, and bahama coffee which were put together with garden roses, blue thistle, orchids and more. Local fruits were also included in the mix like guava, star apple and passion fruit which we sourced from our local farmer Robert Is Here. Anthology Co.’s attention to detail truly made all the arrangements special while the Salvage Snob wowed us with their elegant yet unique multicolored array of seating choices.  How often is it you see three crystal draped chandeliers adorning a massive oak tree?

As we have constantly rising temperatures we decided to have the bride a little cooler and more comfortable. I’m sure all you Floridian brides can relate. The bride wore a short sleeve white oxford shirt coupled with a beautiful gold sequin skirt thus melding elegance and classic comfort. The groom, looking quite dapper, sported a glen plaid suit with a chambray shirt. Putting a fun spin on a still very classy look.

The naked cake made by Cloud 9 Bakery is a great example as to how keeping something simple can actually be more appealing than unnecessary elaborations. Embellishing the cake with some thistle, guava and some other fruits around that gorgeous pedestal base really tied it all in with our original theme. What is that original theme? Well, lets just say its a bit eclectic some rustic with a hint of elegance and a dash of class. All in time for spring.

Floral Design: Anthology Co. | Cake: Cloud 9 Bakery | Invitations: Chirp Paperie | Bride's Shoes: Moho Moxy | Jewelry: Anthropologie | Hair + Makeup: Makeup By Marz | Groom's Attire: J.Crew | Venue: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden | Bridal Headpiece: Lacielle Roselle | Bride's Attire: Anthropologie | Dinnerware: Anthropologie | Fruits: Robert Is Here | Groom's Shoes: Banana Republic | Photography + Design: GCam Photography | Rentals: The Salvage Snob "unique salvage & vintage rentals"

Villa Woodbine, which is gorgeous all on its own, was completely transformed into a dreamy garden landscape for this unique take on the wedding day. JCG Events crafted a cocktail garden party vibe with vintage vignettes by Unearthed Vintage, loads of white blooms by Julia Rohde Designs and all blanketed in twinkling candlelight and serenaded by a French Jazz Band. It’s magical and Katie Lopez Photography was there to capture it all. See all of her gorgeous images right here in the full gallery.

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From Michael Masi of JCG Events…We loved everything about this wedding and this couple. They wanted to create a wedding that was unconventional, free spirited and with an emphasis on amazing food and good music and this is exactly what we accomplished for them.

Villa Woodbine was the perfect setting because it offered a lush landscape, an intimate environment but enough space to create some movement for their guests throughout the evening. Guests were greeted with a signature drink as they arrived to the villa. The couple wanted to forgo the traditional Miami Mojito welcome drink, and instead went with a trendy Moscow Mule. Guests took a moment to enjoy their drink while they waited for the ceremony to begin.

For the Ceremony, we opted to forgo conventional ceremony seating. The short but very meaningful ceremony began as the bride and her daughter walked down the stairs to an instrumental version of Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol. The bride and her daughter were then greeted by the officiant and the groom under the center arch of the courtyard. Guests watched from their cocktail tables and the second floor balcony of the courtyard. Since there was no conventional aisle they sealed the ceremony with a kiss, a walk around the fountain followed immediately by a champagne toast. The French Horn band then began to play spirited and lively French inspired jazz music for cocktail hour. The cocktail hour had officially begun in the same space as the ceremony and in the living room and dinning room areas adjacent to the courtyard.

After plenty of food stations and delectable passed hor’ dourves, guests were escorted to the garden area of the villa which had been transformed to a magical setting. We created an industrial eclectic vibe by utilizing farmhouse tables and combining a mixed collection of steel elio chairs, clear ghost chairs and mahogany chiavari chairs. The florals were a mix of industrial steel vases and mason jars filled with hand picked style of white florals and lots of candles. Three chandeliers hung from down the center of the clear top tent, hanging mason jars with votive candles and fairy lights lined both the trees and corners of the tent. This style also carried over to the custom bar that was created using salvaged items. Guests enjoyed a four-course dinner, while they appreciated a mesmerizing performance from an electric violinist who played alongside a DJ. Vintage furniture vignettes surrounded the reception area throughout the garden to allow for guests to be able to lounge and mingle as they enjoyed cocktails after dinner. A custom photo booth was created that was inspired by the bride’s British heritage by incorporating a traditional red British style phone booth, combined with hanging picture frames and vintage furniture. Guests were invited to take pictures using their own cameras and then post images to a wedding photo app.

Later in the evening, guests were then escorted back to the courtyard where the cake was cut and then danced the night away under the open starry sky.

Photography: Katie Lopez Photography | Event Planning: Masi Events | Floral Design: Julia Rohde Designs | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Cake: Filled & Frosted | Ceremony Venue: Villa Woodbine | Reception Venue: Villa Woodbine | Catering: Bill Hansen Luxury Catering and Event Production | DJ: Mona Music Group | Officiant: Reverend Eddie Rodriguez | Transportation: Padrinos | Cocktail Music: The French Horn | Hair And Make-up: Hot Pink Style | Rentals: Unearthed Vintage | Rentals: AFR Furniture Rental | Styling, Makeup, And Hair: Hot Pink Style

Let’s be honest – it’s hard to beat a homespun wedding. There’s a certain magic that happens when a family comes together to create a beautiful, bespoke affair; every detail, every moment comes from a place of total love. And the object of my latest handcrafted wedding affection? This Casa Reta “I do” inspired by the perfect picnic. Merari Photography snapped the goods, and you can have a nice, long look in the gallery right here.

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From Merari Photography… Rafael and Alicia wanted to laid-back family picnic style wedding and that’s exactly what they got. Everything was a family affair. The details were crafted or hand-picked by Alicia, Rafael and their family members. Alicia’s bouquet was made by her aunt, the vintage furniture pieces were bought through Craigslist and refurbished by Rafael. The food was potluck style with delicious things from Alicia’s Cuban heritage and Rafael’s Dominican family traditions. Even the flower vases were flown in from Cuba from Alicia’s great-grandmother’s home.

Despite some rain on their wedding day, Rafael and Alicia were the happiest of couples. Their happiness was contagious s as they said personal vows to each other. The wedding and couple were the biggest joy to photograph.

Photography: Merari Photography | Videographer: Reinhardt Productions | Floral Design: Gilda Montes Of Oca Design | Wedding Dress: Melissa Sweet | Wedding Cake: Misha's Cupcakes | Bride's Shoes: ZIGI | Bridesmaids Shoes: Vince Camuto | Bridesmaids Dresses: B. Darlin | Groom's Suit: JCPenney | Groom's Bow Tie: The Tie Bar | Groom's Shirt: Macy's | Groom's Shoes: Cole Haan | Groom's Suspenders: Burlington Coat Factory | Location: Casa Reta

I don’t know about you lovelies, but I can’t think of a better way to celebrate your 10-year anniversary than with a drop-dead gorgeous photo shoot on Valentine’s Day.  And not just any photo shoot, a photo shoot from the talented team of Ever After Wed (the happy couple!), Vanessa Velez and Agape Makeup & Hair.  It’s a non-stop day of pretty stylings, yummy treats and l.o.v.e.  See it all in the full gallery.

From Vanessa Velez… When Soco from Ever After Wed realized she was celebrating her 10th year anniversary with her hubby this year she decided to go all out and plan a Valentine’s Weekend Inspirational Shoot and document it all. She called me up as she dazzled away at the kitchen creating some of her husband’s favorite foods and desserts. Being a lover of brunch, she knew that she wanted to have a little bit of everything sweet and yummy. We put together this sweet and romantic shoot to celebrate their ten years of hearts and kisses.

From Ever After Wed… I could live in a world of desserts and flowers, so when I decided to plan this weekend I started styling away in my head and thinking about all of the things we as a couple love and what to us is romance. My husband has always known that the way through my heart is through the kitchen. I prefer to have an amazing cooked meal then almost anything. To me it means so much. So when I thought about Valentine’s I immediately knew I wanted to take the dessert route and make a lot of sweet foods than I just knew he would love. Of course, once I started on it it turned into an amazing shoot that not only let us be together and plan for this special day but also let us be in front of the camera and laugh, cuddle and just be us. After ten years together it’s still amazing, inspiring and incredible to have such a bond with my husband and that is something that I never want to loose. So planning this day for us was just perfect. I want everyone to be inspired to have their own over the top Valentine’s meal and spend some time with the one you love. That is priceless.

Styling & Design: Soco Alicea | Makeup & Hair: Agape Makeup | Desserts & Drinks: Soco Alicea | Miami, Fl: Private Home | Photography & Styling: Vanessa Velez | Props & Rentals: Confetti Event Production

Every now and then you come across a post that needs no introduction. It’s so beyond-words pretty that the photos and the film more than speak for themselves. And when Michelle March, Michael Burgos, Julia Rohde and Sweetest Celebrations, sent over this Parisian shoot, I knew we were in for one those posts. Simply allow me to lead you straight to the goodies right over here.

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From Blush and White Design House… Ah, Paris, the city of love and romance, the city that inspires poets and love stories the world round. One cannot think of Paris without thinking of elegance, glamour, and true romance. This is the city I have visited time and time again, and never tired of its effortless beauty and charisma. The city’s charm always stays with me long after I return home, and it is Paris that inspires me in endless ways.

Just a few miles outside Paris lies the enchanting Palace of Versailles, the epitome of glamour and decadence, with its gilded gates and crystal chandeliers. It is the perfect example of Parisian glamour and luxury at its best. With this in mind, I envisioned a beautiful afternoon wedding in a lovely outdoor setting reminiscent of the French countryside, to juxtapose a design full of typical Parisian glamour. I fell in love with the Ancient Spanish Monastery because of its lovely grounds, as well as its architecture and history.

It was only fitting that this shoot come to life with a group of vendors that shared an affinity and passion for all things Parisian and that drew inspiration from that as well. Michelle March and I had both been to Paris recently, and shared stories of our trips one afternoon as we browsed through the lovely collection of gowns at Sasha’s Bridal Boutique. We both fell in love with a gown that was fitted and lace, and paired it with a lace beaded cape and cathedral veil for a look that was just perfect for my Parisian inspired shoot. The gown became the inspiration for the overall styled shoot, and for many of the elements that followed.

Vintage furniture pieces from Love in Vintage — originally from France — set the mood, and served as the perfect setting for this Parisian vision. Specialty sweets created by Sugar Fancies, included a pink and gold French macaron tower with a sugar ribbon emblazoned with the phrase “je t’aime toujours” (I love you always) handwritten in script. Sugar flowers adorned the macaron tower and the tiered cake, which was perfect atop a gold platter accented with delicate crystals.

Julia Rohde created a dreamy floral design, with a bridal bouquet that speaks volumes in muted pinks and ivories, with a few anemones for just the right touch of modern luxury. The sweetheart table needed little decor, with its gilded finish and carved design, and featured soft florals in vintage candleholders and petite gold vases. The table is set with vintage china and gold flatware, and the ‘place cards’ are fancy sugar cookies with the bride and groom’s names “Isabelle & Jacques” hand written in script.

The bride was glamorous yet demure all at once, with her hair elegantly arranged in a soft updo. In true Parisian style, the day was interrupted by a series of rain showers, so the groom appears only briefly in the romantic video created by the creative talent of Michael Burgos Films. He is elegant in a sharp tuxedo by Vera Wang, and the bride and groom throw all cares to the wind as they toast in gold-rimmed champagne flutes!

Photographer: Michelle March | Cinematography: Michael Burgos Films | Hair and Makeup: Luis Piedrahita for Vicky Mejia | Venue: Ancient Spanish Monastery | Bridal Attire: Sasha's Bridal Boutique | Cakes and Sweets: Sugar Fancies | Event Design And Coordination: Blush And White Design House | Flora Design: Julia Rohde Designs | Groomswear: Men's Wearhouse | Models: Susan Dean & Barakat Emanuel | Vintage Furniture: Love in Vintage

I could give you a million and one reasons why I love, love, LOVE this engagement session by Becca Borge – the style, the images, the setting – it’s all insane. But do you want to know the main reason I am head over heels in love with every image in this gallery? It’s the way he looks at her. I just couldn’t love that more. See even more here.

From Becca Borge…Danny and Monica wanted their engagement session at a quiet park for a beautifully simple shoot. I love Monica’s fun and colorful outfits and how much Danny just adored her the entire time!

Photography: Becca Borge Photography

This film?  This beautiful look into the heart of one crazy gorgeous wedding?  It’s amazing.  The kind of amazing that sort of takes your breath away.  And then there’s this moment.  This raw, emotional moment where the groom sees his bride walk down the aisle for the very first time… and it’s heart-stopping.  Press play to see every last second captured by Bridges Cinema, because it’s sooo worthy of your work day break.

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From Bridges Cinema… There is nothing more spectacular for a filmmaker than to see through your lens the story of two people who love each other come together in one magical day. Here’s the story of that day for Parool and Karl. We were privileged to experience not only the union of two families but the fusion of two cultures come together. We love when we can capture that magic!! The magic of the words of a dad who has the privilege of marrying his son. You can feel so much emotion. You can hear the strong bond between brother and sister as you hear the brother’s giving words of advice during his toast. The beauty of this wedding is accentuated by the beauty of the bride & groom, the gorgeous venue, Villa Woodbine and all the intricate details of the wedding. Thank you Parool & Karl for choosing Bridges Cinema to be part of your magical day!

Photography: Katie Lopez Photography | Cinematography: Bridges Cinema | Event Planning: Pawar, Inc | Floral Design: Cameron Keating Events | Catering: Bill Hansen Luxury Catering and Event Production | Venue: Villa Woodbine

Ozzy Garcia and perfect weddings go hand in hand. That’s a proven fact. Case in point — this life-changingly gorgeous Miami soiree that just might be his best work yet. It’s a lesson in the power of soft lighting and neutral palettes. But more than that, it’s a love story told through Ozzy’s lens, and you can watch it all unfold right over here.

From the Bride… My husband proposed to me at the top of Rockefeller center surrounded by a ton of tourists and a breathtaking view of Manhattan. Right afterwards, he took me on a surprise trip to Italy (marry the perfect guy: check!) where we explored Rome, Florence and Venice. In Florence, we stayed right outside the city in a gorgeous home turned charming bread & breakfast that was dripping with history and authenticity. From the arched little doorways, to the lace doilies that sat below our morning coffee cups, I totally fell in love with it. We drove from our B&B past gorgeous homes and gardens and up the hill to Piazza Michelangelo where we watched beautiful sunsets. I felt like the whole trip was in soft lighting. When it was time to plan the wedding, I wanted to channel everything I experienced there: a classic, timeless, soft and romantic beauty. Miami, my hometown, was a perfect place to achieve that.

We got married in a classic Coconut Grove church that both my parents and sister were married in. The ceremony was beautiful and emotional. The lighting coming through the stain glass made everything seem like a dream, which is exactly how it felt. The reception was held at Villa Woodbine, a perfectly timeless estate filled with pretty textures, gorgeous antique furniture, a beautiful tiled stairway, an intimate open courtyard, and a front lawn surrounded by huge oak trees and twinkling lights. The venue provided so much natural beauty and greenery that we didn’t need to add much.

In keeping with the softness I was so drawn to, we added ombre watercolor elements with the program, table numbers, menus and escort cards. Even the flower arrangements and bouquets created a sunset feel, with pink peonies, peach roses and white ranunculus against green accents. Lace tablecloths and runners, mercury glass, a tufted love seat, and one gorgeous draped chandelier hanging from the center garden sealed the deal. The evening was filled with joy, laughter and romance. It was perfect. We ended the night with tons of confetti and drove away in a 1964 classic white Pontiac GTO and the sounds of cans ringing behind us.

Photography: Ozzy Garcia | Flowers: Nevot Flower Design | Wedding Cake: Filled & Frosted | Invitations: Vera Wang | Ceremony Venue: St Hugh Catholic Church | Reception Venue: Villa Woodbine | Bridesmaid's Dresses: Bari Jay | Bistro Lights, Love Seat, Props: Unearthed Vintage | Bride's Dress: Reem Acra | Day of Stationary: Umbrella Tree Design | Flower Girl Dresses: Seahorse- Watters | Groom's Tux: Sandro | Linens & Coordination: Leyani | Pontiac GTO: Miami Vintage Prop Cars | Rolls Royce: Melian Limousines & Antiques

To say I love Kate Spade would be the understatement of the year. There isn’t a brand that makes me happier, so coming across this Kate Spade inspired shoot from Chelsey Boatwright Photography is like striking gold in my book. It’s filled to the brim with perfectly preppy details to brighten your day, complete with a cake from Sugar Fancies that is like a cherry on the top of all the fabulous. See it all here.

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Photography: Chelsey Boatwright Photography | Event Design and Styling: Blush and White Design House | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Cake: Sugar Fancies | Invitations: Llorente Design | Necklace: Kate Spade | Hair: Jessica Boatwright | Groom's Attire: Banana Republic | Wedding Venue: Vizcaya Museum Gardens | Necklace via: Rent The Runway

This is the kind of duo that is all about having a good time on their wedding day.  The kind of duo that flies to the South of Florida with their closest friends and family, kicks off their shoes and celebrates their drop-dead gorgeous nuptials with their toes planted firmly in the sand.  They are just that awesome.  And every last moment captured by BlueSpark Photography?  Second after second of pure joy literally bursting from your computer screen.  See it all right here in the full gallery.

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From the Bride… Craig and I met in 2005 during grad school at The Thirsty Ear Pub, an MIT campus bar known as “The Institution of the Institute.” We were both very focused on our careers and not interested in ever getting married. So, we went our own ways, me to Fort Worth, Texas and Craig to Chicago, Illinois. We were always friends and saw each other often. Actually, it was often unavoidable since my older sister was dating and later married one of our mutual friends. In 2010, I was in Chicago on business and called Craig to meet up. A friend who saw us together politely (and figuratively) smacked me upside the head. The rest, as they say, is history.

We did the long distance thing for way too long. We hated being apart for weeks at a time and realized we would be stuck together if we were married… in a good way, of course. I work with my hands, so I really only wear flat rings that are unlikely to get caught in machinery. In lieu of a traditional engagement ring, Craig appropriately gave me a ring pop, which I wore for a solid 5 minutes.

We wanted a very small, intimate ceremony. Craig and I flew to Miami separately from Chicago and Fort Worth. My parents arrived from Queens and my sister and her husband flew in from Albuquerque. Craig’s parents and his two brothers came from the DC area and his sister and her husband traveled from Salt Lake City. Our families met for the first time. We spent the weekend together and held our ceremony on the beach. Craig and I (with a little online cheating) wrote a Dr. Seuss themed script and Craig’s brother, Steve, officiated with, as he put it, “a little more Dr. Dre then Dr. Seuss.” Craig’s youngest brother, DJ Eric, took care of our musical requests, mixing Frankie Valli’s original Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You with Muse’s remake, for a very “us” first dance on the beach. Our sisters, Karen and Rene were our ring bearers and made sure our rings were securely attached to our bride and groom rubber duckies until Steve called them to his “Arch of Power.” It was a beautiful day and a hilarious ceremony. I finally moved to Chicago a month later and we absolutely love coming home to each other every day without an 800-mile commute.

Photographer: BlueSpark Photography | Coordinator: Forever In Love | Floral Design: Forever In Love | Wedding Dress: Ann Taylor | Jewelry + Rings: Tinahdee

When sweet vintage stylings and crazy cool modern details join forces in a breathtaking Key Biscayne wedding, we here at SMP call it “seriously awesome.”  And when that seriously awesome day is captured by Elaine Palladino Photography and features lush blooms from Flowers by Sandra and an Elegant Temptations masterpiece, we can’t think of a better way to kick off the work week.  Join us in the gallery for all of the pretty.

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My fiance (now husband!) and I wanted a fun and intimate “party” for our guests. It was important to us that we were married in church. We fell in love with the beautiful Plymouth Church. We also felt it was important to hold the wedding in Miami,the city where we met and fell in love. We both have family from the Boston area and we thought our guests would enjoy some sunshine for Springtime wedding in Miami.

Vintage-Modern was the feel I was going for as I planned the day. I love vintage butI am also a very modern girl at heart. So I decided to incorporate the two. I loved the idea of a Spring wedding with the color palette of pretty peaches, pinks, nudes and ivories combined with soft florals and gorgeously soft lighting. We used metallics and mirrors to accent the light colors and bring a more modern, glamorous feel.

It felt impossible to properly “thank” everyone as the day seemed to quickly fly by. It was very important to us to do so, however. We took the time before dinner to greet every single guest. We walked table to table to hug and thank our family and friends. The groom’s favorite part of the day was the bridal party entrance as he choreographed it, incorporating the NBA Bull’s entrance, with the DJ. It was quite fun. I also loved joining our guests for the cocktail hour. While most brides and grooms are busy doing pictures (we had done the first look before the ceremony) we were able to enjoy extra time with our guests.

I am all about the little details. To me they make a big impression and make an occasion your own. Probably my favorite “detail” (and creative surprise) was that our friends made props of our heads to be used for the photo booth. They were a hit to say the least. Not only were they used in the photobooth- they were found later in the evening in floral arrangements and all over the dance floor.It was fun to see all the creative ways our friends celebrated with us, aka “our heads.” I also loved some of the more vintage touches, for example small kraft gift bags (with gorgeous white doilies) I had made for the bridemaids’ gifts and all the mirrored/metallic objects my mom and I had collected together over the year of planning. The truth is, all the little details were things I loved.

Late in the evening I changed into the dress my mom wore as her “going away” dress. This was special to me as my family is very close. For my sister and I, our parents are our everything. They have always loved us unconditionally and have always told us we could (and can!) accomplish anything we dreamed of. I know I wouldn’t be the woman I am today without the love of both of my parents. It was amazing to be wearing something I knew my mom wore the day she married my dad. I also used brooches on our ring pillow that belonged to my grandmother, who could not be present at the wedding due to travel. She is my idol and knowing she was there in more than just spirit was very special. I will always cherish those items and connect them with our marriage and wedding day.

I have a love for stationery and originally wanted to make thank you cards to put on the tables at each of the place settings. Then I thought about it. Although gorgeous for a picture or two, they will immediately get thrown away and I just didn’t like that idea. So instead of cards, I decided to make a thank you “mirror”using a vintage mirror I purchased and a chalk-pen. I used different fonts and got to be creative in spelling out our gratitude to our guests. The chalk pen washes off so the mirror can be used again. Less waste and more memories. I’ll take it. I also made personalized vintage compact mirrors for my bridesmaids with their names. I love the idea of practical things that can be used again well after the wedding, but with all the great memories and love that goes along with such a day.

Like everyone says the day goes by very quickly! But it really goes even faster than quickly. My advice for future brides and grooms?  Breathe, EAT (this is so hard when you are nervous/excited/etc), and take it all in. Definitely splurge, if you can, for a great video. A month after our wedding, on our “one month” anniversary we went back to the Rusty Pelican for a casual dinner and came home to our “highlight” video of our wedding day. It truly was like reliving the day. That video will never get old to us. I love it even more than I can describe. To see things you didn’t see that day and to see the live reactions and anticipation of the day.Pictures are a must, but I am pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoy the video. I would highly recommend other brides squeeze this in to their day if they are at all questioning the idea.

Photographer: Elaine Palladino Photography | Videographer: Delight Media | Floral Design: Flowers by Sandra | Wedding Dress: Blue by Enzoani | Cake: Elegant Temptations | Invitations: Beacon Lane | Ceremony: Plymouth Church Miami | Ceremony Venue: Plymouth Church Miami | Reception: Rusty Pelican | Reception Venue: Rusty Pelican | Shoes: Vera Wang | Bridesmaids Dresses: Unique Bridal | DJ: DJ Cardi | Bridal Boutique: Couture Bridal Miami | Groom's Tux: Men's Wearhouse | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Sash: Pronovias | Veil: Couture Bridal Miami

Miami, you throw a darn pretty wedding. And when you team up with Karma Goddess, you are at your brightest. This wedding is living proof. Becca Borge Photography captured a love so pure that is spilled over effortlessly into a beautifully designed, wonderfully planned day. And I just can’t get enough.

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From the photographer… Christina and Leslie’s wedding was an elegant oceanside wedding at a mansion in Miami, FL. The wedding took place at the historic Deering Estate and was the perfect fit for this couple. They are an ocean-loving pair who live by the water and boat often. I loved how they incorporated a myriad of bright florals and decor for a elegant tropical feel, and pearls throughout (pearl paper invites and stationary, pearl DIY place cards, pearl champagne flutes/dinner ware, and Christina’s engagement ring is even a pearl instead of diamond). Other fun elements include a beach chair “guestbook” and water-gun send off!

From the beautiful bride…  Leslie and I both love the water. This was the main reason in the decor and venue selection. I also love history, so getting married at a historical site was also nice. We wanted something classy and elegant, but also incorporate our love for the sea. There was a lot of DIY. All the menus were designed and created by me and my mom. The aisle decor was DIY. My mom and I bought all of the sea shells and ocean decor and had the florist incorporate these into her designs. 

Photography: Becca Borge Photography | Coordinator: Karma Goddess | Florist: Hirnis Florist | Cake: Susie's Scrumptious Sweets | Shoes: Navy/Tan Sperry Topsiders | Caterer: Chef David Catering | Hair and Makeup: Kristin Brown | Entertainment: Chris Cruz with Emagination | Groom's Suit: Jos. A. Bank | Venue: The Deering Estate | Bride's Gown: Alfred Angelo

I am sort of obsessed with all-white color palettes.  They’re the perfect mix of classy, chic and traditional, with a dash of fun for good measure.  And when you add in some dazzling silver accents?  Even better.  Which is why this sophisticated Miami affair is right up my alley.  It’s elegant white hues meets a gorgeous (+ yummy) masterpiece from Elegant Temptations meets a gallery of lovely from Lara Rios Fine Art Photography.  Join me there for all of the pretty.

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From the Bride… Ernesto and I met while attending the University of Florida. He had his eye on me for a while but the timing never really worked out. Finally, during our junior year, a mutual friend set us up. My friends and I were having a party at our apartment and he “coincidently” showed up. We ended up talking, I gave him a beer from the refrigerator and we’ve been together ever since. After graduating we moved to New York City where we spent three years. We had enough of the winter weather and decided to move back to Miami. One weekend Ernesto decided it would be a good idea to go kayaking in Brickell Bay. I did not like the sound of it, but figured I would be a good sport and tag along. We ended up stopping at the Mandarin Oriental, a hotel with a path along the water and a beautiful view. Next thing I knew he was down on one knee asking me to spend forever with him. Soaking wet from the kayak ride, in Nike shorts and a white t-shirt, I was in complete shock! Hands down best day of my life. Well, actually, second best day. Our wedding was definitely number one!

About the wedding… We both really wanted a venue where we could have the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception all outdoors. Grove Isle was the first place we looked at and the last. We fell in love with everything about it, how could you not? From the very beginning we knew we wanted to try and keep the dcor as simple as possible. Grove Isle is so beautiful on its own that you don’t really need much. We decided on all-white flowers with gray and silver accents. I wanted a soft and romantic theme with a little modern flare. The most fun about wedding planning was choosing all the little details that reflected our personalities and relationship. The entire day was absolutely amazing, everything came together better than we could have imagined. The day was filled with love, tears, laughter and lots of dancing. And the Miami weather did not disappoint.

Photography: Lara Rios | Cinematography: Bonnelly Films | Floral Design: Floral Productions by Vivian Colls | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Cake: Elegant Temptations | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Bill Levkoff | Hair + Makeup: Makeup By Marz | Lighting: Evoga Events | DJ: DJ Ubi | Groom's Attire: Salvatore Ferragamo | Wedding Venue: Grove Isle Hotel and Spa | Bridal Boutique: Ever After Miami | Chairs: Elements & Accents | Day of Coordination: Floral Productions by Vivian Colls | Garland: Confetti Systems | Invitations + Stationery: Papery & Cakery | Reggae Band: Pokito & Jean P Jam

Sailboats, gorgeous light, super in love couples – all those things fall happily at the tippy top of my favorite things list. So it basically goes without saying that I want to live in each and every image from 1313 Photography sitting in this gallery. It’s true. I couldn’t possibly pick a favorite, but I’ll happily spend the rest of the day trying. Join me in devouring all the pretty here.

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From 1313 Photography… Mike grew up on sail boats and thought this was a fair compromise, two hours on a sail boat for two hours of photography. The boat was the Nepenthe, through Classic Sailing Charters, Mike Del Marmol was the captain. The marina was Dinner Key Marina in Coconut Grove.

Photography: 1313 Photography | Charter: Classic Sailing Charter

One of my favorite things in the whole wide world is getting to see a couple’s wedding planning period unfold on the screens of SMP. Take this couple for instance, it seems like only yesterday we were swooning over their engagement session, and now we get to devour every last gorgeous detail of their big day. It just makes my heart so happy, and I couldn’t be more honored that they wanted to share this important part of their lives with us. See all the gorgeous images from claudia oliver Photography in the completely gorgeous gallery of images.

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From Claudia Oliver… Ana and Chris are a gorgeous couple! She got ready at her parent’s home. Their ceremony was held at the Church of Little Flower, the most beautiful church in Coral Gables and their reception was at the luxurious Downtown Miami Hotel VICEROY. Their first dance was choreographed — such fun! Because they were engaged in Paris, they chose Eiffel tower favors. At the end of the night they had a traditional Latin American HORA LOCA which translates to a “Crazy Hour”– when guests don accessories and props for an hour-filled party!

Photography: Claudia Oliver | Floral Design: Florana Designs | Wedding Dress: Pronovias | Wedding Cake: Edda’s Cake Designs | Wedding Invitations: Lilian Designs Studio | Ceremony: Church of Little Flower | Reception Venue: Viceroy Miami Hotel & Resort | Bride's Shoes: Louboutin | Makeup: Bridal Makeovers by Aradia | Hair Stylist: Carmen Cabrera | Entertainment: The Event Factor | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Donna Morgan | Bride’s Veil: J del Olmo Bridal Gallery and Couture | Event Design & Coordinator: Lourdes Milian Productions | Groom’s Suit: Vera Wang

Elopements are my everything. No, I didn’t elope, but oh did I dream of it a time or two. It’s the epitome of romance to me, so those who actually do tie the knot in such a fashion always get my nod of approval. If you are planning on saying I do with just you and your beau, yet want to do so in style – we have just the shoot for you today. It’s the perfect inspiration for you elopement-loving readers, and we have Merari Photography to thank for all the pretty. It’s all topped off with some seriously stunning beauty by Sissi Ceballo (helloooo fishtail brain and red lip), making this elopement one for the books. See it all here.

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From Merari… There’s something so romantic about elopements. I’d been wanting to do an inspiration session for one for a while and was blessed to have the opportunity to work with the cutest couple for it. Yesica, the bride, is a vintage-loving, diy blogger who loved the idea and started brainstorming with me. We decided to do a city hall ceremony and walk around the city for some portrait fun.

Miami is normally known for glitz and glam but it’s also a city filled with subtle history, beautiful sunlight and a laid-back attitude. Yesica, Andrew and I wanted to tell a story of a couple madly in love, having an intimate, romantic city hall elopement and exploring little nooks of their beloved city. We wanted to give future South Florida brides and grooms some inspiration for a diy, road-less-traveled kind of wedding.

Everything was done with a budget-conscious bride in mind with simple, yet elegant diy touches. Sissi, the hairstylist did a fantastic job giving Yesica a loose fishtail braid, to keep that Miami humidity frizz under control and a touch of color on the lips. It’s so romantic and sweet! The flowers were bought the morning of at a local Winn Dixie and were put together by Yesica as well as the design for the announcement cards.

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Photography: Merari Photography | Yesica’s Blog:  SimplyLively | Hair + Makeup: Sissi Ceballo | Ceremony: Coral Gables City Hall | Dinner Venue: Books&Books | Wedding Dress: Love Culture | Bride’s Shoes: B.A.I.T. Footwear | Groom’s Shirt: Cotton On | Groom’s Slacks: Macy’s | Groom’s Shoes Urban Outfitters

There are a million and one reasons that I am completely obsessed with this wedding, but let me just start out by saying this: this bride and groom are amazing.  They are amazingly cute, amazingly sweet and have an amazingly adorable love story that will leave you smiling for days.  The kind of love story that seems bound for the big screen and all culminates in one seriously breathtaking Vizcaya Museum and Gardens soiree that features the fab stylings of TC Event Design, vibrant florals from Blooming Flowers and devastatingly gorgeous images from Captured Photography by Jenny.  See them all in the full gallery.

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From the Bride… Wes and I both went to a small college, Furman University in Greenville, SC. There were only 2,700 students and we were both had the same major, but in four years we never met. Three years after college, fate introduced us at the wedding of my sorority sister and his soccer teammate. Things just clicked.

When it was time to choose a location for our wedding, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens was at the top of our list. We’d visited the Italian-style mansion years before and fell in love with the regal elegance of this sanctuary in our home state of Florida.

Robyn Baltuch from TC Event Designs helped us capture the magical atmosphere of Vizcaya while implementing classy and personal touches that made the day incredibly special. We paid tribute to our parents, grandparents and great-grandparents with a photo table filled with both wedding and couple shots. We even had a congratulatory letter from the Obamas—a nod to our new home in the Washington, DC area. We also continued my favorite southern tradition of a groom’s cake with an Arsenal shield red velvet cake in honor of Wes’ favorite soccer club. Guests sipped on mojitos and dined on cubanitos during the cocktail hour to pay tribute to the Miami atmosphere. My shoes were blue, my opal ring and diamond bracelet were old treasures from my grandmothers and the sorority pins on my bouquet were borrowed from my bridesmaids.

Our band had everyone dancing the night away on the edge of Biscayne Bay and at our send-off guests shook maracas as we drove off in a vintage Rolls Royce. My advice to brides would be to take a moment during the wedding to be alone with your groom—no photographers, no family, just you two. The day goes by fast, but you’ll have that moment forever.

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Wedding Photography: Captured Photography by Jenny | Wedding Venue: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens | Officiant: Father Repp | Event Planning + Design: Robyn Baltuch of TC Event Design | Floral Design: Blooming Flowers | Cakes: Cake Designs by Edda | Catering: Aaron’s Catering | Cinematography: TM Entertainment | Ceremony + Cocktail Music: AA Musicians | Band: Remix/Tropics Entertainment | Rentals: Elements & Accents + Event Outfitters + Just Bars | Linens: Over the Top | Lighting: A&M Productions | Draping: Quest Drape | Hair + Makeup: Sobe Makeup Studio | Buses + Limo: Apollo | Rolls Royce: Millenium

You know why I absolutely adore Zac Wolf?  Well, besides the fact that he really knows how to snap a pretty picture?  It’s because he also happened to send along this uber-sweet Miami wedding our way and it’s sort of the perfect way to kick off the week here on SMP Florida with breathtaking waterside nuptials, quirky + awesome details and bundles upon bundles of yellow-infused blooms from Greynolds Floral Shop.  A Monday morning treat all wrapped up in a gallery of pretty?  Yes, please.  Click here for more.

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FromZac Wolf Photography… Megan and Albert are New Yorkers (who now live in Michigan) who celebrated their love in beautiful and sunny Miami. Their wedding was surrounded by perfectly warm weather, friends, family, and the ocean. So refreshing to shoot in the sun of my home state and take a break from the crazy cold in Boston. 

Megan got ready in her parents’ home surrounded by friends, family, and delicious Cuban food. While Albert got ready at the nearby hotel right on the water. They shared a beautiful first look at an amazing local park filled with beautiful palm trees and then we headed to the ceremony.

The night was filled with traditions from both their cultures, great food, great dancing, and a good time was had by all.

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Wedding Photography: Zac Wolf Photography | Wedding Venue: Water’s Edge at Quayside | Floral Design: Greynolds Floral Shop | Wedding Cake: Publix | DJ: DJ Chip | Makeup + Hair: Yaneth Gray | Wedding Dress: Faviana | Shoes: Cole Haan | Groom’s Attire + Ties: Tommy Hilfiger | Men’s Shoes: Converse All-Stars