Style Me Pretty: Wedding Blog for the Style-Obsessed Bride

A Luxe Modern Wedding with Romantic Details and an Elevated Party Atmosphere

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

We initially envisioned a classic black-and-white palette and believed it was the best way to create a chic, timeless look—though my husband was quick to point out that it felt a bit too minimal for his taste. As our planner, Sacoya, and I reviewed décor options, she suggested incorporating warm champagne, amber, and creamy beige to soften the contrast while still honoring the original vision. The result struck the perfect balance and felt like a true reflection of us both. Gold accents were a must for us and added warmth and polish throughout the design. Black, soft ivory, warm champagne, amber, creamy beige, and gold were the winning combination!

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Our vision was to create a wedding that felt elevated and timeless, while still being warm, inviting, and deeply personal. It was important to us that the day didn’t feel like a production, but rather an experience rooted in our love and the people we were celebrating with. We were drawn to a luxe, modern aesthetic layered with romantic details. At its core, we wanted an elegant turn up—upscale, chic, and polished, but still fun, lively, and full of energy. We wanted to create an atmosphere that felt refined and immersive, yet full of life, striking the perfect balance between sophistication and celebration.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

We first met as students—Leonard at Morehouse College and me at Spelman College, where I was taking a class at Morehouse. What began as a simple introduction turned into a connection that ebbed and flowed through our twenties, as we both continued to grow into ourselves. During the COVID years, we reconnected with a renewed sense of clarity, grounded in a deeper understanding of ourselves and each other. On October 26, 2024, during Spelman and Morehouse’s Homecoming, Leonard brought our story beautifully full circle. While I was eager to head straight to the tailgate, he insisted we stop by the building where we first met “for old time’s sake,” despite my attempts to suggest we visit later in the day. As we approached the building, he casually suggested checking whether the doors were locked—a suggestion I met with an eye roll and a reminder that the tailgate was waiting. Before I could turn away, Leonard gently took my hands and began telling our story—how everything started right there, within the walls of the very building where we first met. As those early memories came rushing back, the moment felt both grounding and surreal. Just as it all began to click, Leonard took a deep breath, slipped off his shoe—explaining quite seriously that the brick was “hard on his knees”—and got down on one knee. The proposal was thoughtful, sincere, and perfectly balanced with his signature humor. It wasn’t about spectacle, but about intention, timing, and honoring the journey that led us back to where it all began—this time, choosing forever.

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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

Years ago, I saw a gown from Alonuko Bridal and told myself that if I ever got married, that would be my dress. My final fitting took place in London, and my parents and I made a trip of it—my last as a Turner before becoming a Gaffney—a memory I’ll always cherish. On the wedding day, my wedding day glam team, B for Beauté and Glam by Maame were the perfect duo, making me feel absolutely beautiful and truly like a bride in my wedding gown.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

My bridesmaids wore velvet dresses with exaggerated bow details at the back from Dessy Group, a nod to the bow detail on the back of my gown.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]while the groomsmen wore velvet tuxedo
jackets from The Black Tux. Leonard’s velvet tuxedo was sourced from Nordstrom, tying the look together in a way that felt cohesive and intentional.[/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]

For us, a great meal has always been a love language, and we wanted our guests to feel genuinely cared for and well-fed throughout the entire celebration. Working with C. Parks Catering & Events, we approached the menu with the same intention as the rest of the day—indulgent yet approachable, and rooted in things we truly love. Our custom bar menu, thoughtfully executed by B&B Beverage Management, reflected that balance perfectly. Guests were welcomed with champagne upon arrival, served with custom monogrammed drink clips, setting a celebratory tone before the ceremony. During cocktail hour, our signature cocktails were introduced—each both personal and classic—with a French 75 for me and a Manhattan for Leonard, a proud New Yorker. Cocktail hour was designed to feel abundant and fun, featuring some of our favorite bites. Leonard’s love of oysters made live, shucked-to-order oysters by Oysters XO a must, alongside bacon-wrapped filet mignon bites, crab cakes, French fries served with mini condiment pipettes, and chicken and waffles—a subtle nod to Atlanta, the city we call home. For dinner, it was important to offer comforting yet elevated options that felt just as thoughtful as the rest of the experience. Guests could choose between rosemary-roasted airline chicken breast with a shiitake madeira demi-glace and au gratin potatoes, blackened grouper with tarragon brown butter and mashed potatoes, or Italian slow-roasted short ribs served with cheesy polenta.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

With a background in Customer Experience, I was excited to put my skills to use and think intentionally about how our guests would move through and feel the day. Our décor approach was to have a thoughtfully designed experience—one where every detail had purpose and guests felt immersed from the moment they arrived. As a Winter wedding, we leaned into the fabric of the season, using velvet in a deliberate way to create warmth, depth, and intimacy throughout the space. Emerald City Designs created our velvet signage for the bar menus, cigar bar, phone booth, and photo booth to highlight different moments throughout the celebration. Our décor was designed to be both functional and interactive, encouraging guests to engage with the space in meaningful ways. Our audio guestbook, provided by After the Tone and housed within a custom phone booth designed by Design by Faith Co., offered guests a thoughtful way to leave messages, and our custom “Ring for a Drink” seating chart, also created by Design by Faith Co., quickly became a guest favorite during cocktail hour. One of our most loved and frequently complimented design elements was the florals. Bloom created a lush, cohesive floral story that was true to our warm neutral palette by weaving together toffee, caramel, and cappuccino roses with soft white and ivory blooms. Glass cylinder vases and layered candlelight added warmth and glow throughout the reception, while tall floral stands created the illusion of floating flowers, bringing in drama without overwhelming the space. On the tables, Paper & Lace Boutique designed velvet table numbers, while Paper Plum Co. created custom velvet menus that added texture in a subtle but impactful way. Velvet linens from BBJ Tavola in Walnut and Caramel, paired with Celeste Ivory accents, added richness and contrast to the tablescape. The Copper Quail also provided the place settings, helping create a cohesive experience, and also provided lush black velvet sofas for cocktail hour seating and a dedicated space for us during the toasts. Our custom dance floor, monogrammed with our initials and created by Southern Event Wraps, tied the entire design together and set the tone for the reception.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Our five-tier wedding cake by Cake Envy was absolutely stunning, and we were hooked from
the very first bite at our tasting. The vintage-style design featured intricate buttercream piping
and delicate pearl accents that subtly matched the pearls on my wedding dress.
The flavors balanced were a mix of classic and indulgent, including traditional vanilla cake with
vanilla bean Swiss meringue buttercream, pink champagne cake with fresh strawberry Swiss
meringue buttercream, and a tuxedo option of chocolate fudge cake filled with white chocolate
mousse and chocolate ganache.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

Our ceremony was grounded in intention, with our officiants, Larraine and Michael Forrester of A Relationship Ministry, LLC, reading Genesis 2:24. Guests were welcomed with live violin by Jeremy Green, setting an elegant tone that carried through the cocktail hour. Music throughout the day was provided by DJ Toryn of Exquisite Sounds Entertainment—from Leonard’s entrance to “My Song” by Labi Siffre to the processional to “Another You” by Brian McKnight, my walk down the aisle to a piano instrumental of “All My Life,” and our joyful recessional to “As” by Stevie Wonder. For the reception, we leaned into our love of oldies and timeless classics. Our first dance was to “Always & Forever” by Heatwave, followed by a father-daughter dance to “My Girl” by The Temptations and a mother-son dance to “I’ll Be There” by The Jackson 5, with the cake cutting set to “Fly Me to the Moon” by Count Basie and Frank Sinatra.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Honoring my parents was incredibly important to us, as they have been integral to our relationship, and we wanted them to feel deeply celebrated on our wedding day. We used the same bride and groom coupes they toasted with at their own wedding 47 years ago, a detail that felt especially meaningful to share with them in that moment. In that same spirit, both my bouquet and my mother’s were wrapped in fabric from my late grandmother’s shawl—the very one she wore to my parents’ wedding—serving as my “something blue” and a quiet tribute to the women and love that came before us.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Personal details were woven throughout the weekend to make our guests feel both welcomed
and connected to our story. Our cocktail napkins featured copies of handwritten notes we had
written to each other over the years, sourced from Giant Big Hands Co., a small but meaningful
detail that sparked conversation and added intimacy to cocktail hour.
For our guest hotels, visitors were greeted with custom key card holders by CarlysCoCreative,
which included a warm welcome message and a thoughtfully designed run-of-show for the
wedding weekend. As the night continued, late-night pizza was served in custom boxes from
Shiny Happy Party, while our cigar bar featured custom cigars from Cigar Villa, adding an
elevated and playful element to the celebration.
As a final keepsake, our wedding favors were editorial black-and-white portraits from the photo
booth by Portrait Noir, giving guests a timeless memento to take home from the night.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]As a final personal touch, Leonard was adamant about a vintage getaway car from Lookout
Limousine for our exit—a detail that felt timeless and celebratory, and the perfect way to end
the night.[/field]
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BBJ La Tavola

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Petit Bouquet

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Jenkins & Co. Weddings

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An Effortlessly Minimal Wedding with Organic Neutrals in Wellington, Florida

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

The palette was soft, restrained, and organic. Think warm ivories and washed whites, layered with natural greens, stone, and soft earth tones. Subtle black accents grounded the look, while candlelight added a gentle, honeyed warmth throughout the evening. It felt sun-bleached and timeless, a palette that let light, fabric, and emotion do the talking.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The overall vibe was anti-performance: no excess décor, no trend-driven moments, no visual noise. Instead, the focus stayed on connection, movement, and presence, a wedding designed to be felt before it was seen. Effortless, unforced, and deeply personal.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”][/field]
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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

The bride’s look felt untrendy and quietly powerful, made in Argentina. The gown was an ethereal silhouette with soft structure, delicate texture, and a sense of ease that let her move freely. Nothing felt overworked or styled for effect. Each element was chosen for how it felt, not how it photographed, which is exactly why it photographed so beautifully. Accessories were minimal and meaningful, allowing fabric, light, and form to lead. Hair and makeup remained clean and natural, enhancing rather than transforming. The groom’s tailoring was classic and understated, modern in fit but timeless in spirit. Together, the fashion read as quiet, minimalist, refined, confident, and entirely unbothered by trends.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”][/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”][/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]

The food and drink experience was thoughtful, nourishing, and aligned with the couple’s values. A fully vegan, farm-to-table menu highlighted seasonal produce, fresh herbs, and vibrant, unfussy dishes that remained colorful, clean, and intentionally simple. Everything felt light and grounding, designed to be enjoyed slowly and shared communally rather than plated for spectacle.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The florals were simple, sculptural, and deeply personal. White calla lilies were arranged by the bride herself, gathered with intention rather than styled for symmetry. Their clean lines and quiet elegance echoed the overall vision, restrained, organic, and unfussy. Nothing felt overdone or performative; the beauty came from form and meaning, not abundance.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The wedding cake was understated and intentional, echoing the quiet elegance of the day.

Simple in form and free of excess decoration, it felt more like a sculptural object than a traditional tiered cake. Clean lines, soft texture, and a natural finish allowed it to blend seamlessly into the candlelit setting, refined without trying to steal the moment.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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Petit Bouquet

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A Jewel-Toned Wine Country Wedding with Architectural Details and Autumn Romance

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Ivory, Amber, Plum, Emerald

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The design concept was driven by a modern, luminous aesthetic grounded in architectural balance. Rooted in the natural beauty of wine country in autumn, we curated a palette of creamy neutrals layered with rich jewel tones—emerald, amber, and plum—to bring warmth and depth to the neutral November setting. To balance structure with softness, bold statement bars were paired with a whimsical serpentine pizza buffet, resulting in a celebration that felt romantic and chic yet intentionally composed. Every decision was made with the intention to honor both the natural November surroundings and the couple’s refined taste.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]Mallory and Jake’s story began during the pandemic when they both returned to their coastal hometown of Annapolis. Despite living in Los Angeles and Dallas at the time, they met through a mutual friend and fell deeply in love. When the time felt right, Jake planned a romantic surprise proposal featuring a harpist and a sushi picnic by the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.[/field]
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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

Mallory found her minimal yet structured gown at One Bridal Boutique. The Josephine Ensemble with the Odette Overskirt by Saint Bridal Couture was a perfect match for Mallory and the overall wedding aesthetic.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

Bridesmaids had the opportunity to select a gown that felt right for them, and they did so through a variety of designers – Bec and Bridge, Amanda Uprichard, Azazie, Lulus, and Dress The Population, to name a few.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

The Groom and his groomsmen leaned into a classic look with suits from Calvin Klein.

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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]

Mallory and Jake’s neighbor owned a pizza catering company, Timber Pizza Co., and we leaned in fully. A serpentine table stretched through the tent, filled with pizzas for guests to select from, and it was accented with vibrant red flowers and tomatoes from Steelcut Floral Co. We partnered with The Catering Outfit to provide a chic oyster bar at cocktail hour and delicious signature cocktails for guests.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Once the structured-meets-natural vision was established, Steelcut Flower Co was the natural choice to bring it to life through layered, textural florals. The décor emphasized clean lines, allowing tables, candlelight, and floral moments to create an effortless flow throughout the tented space. Fire pits, inviting lounge seating, and accent blankets enhanced the warmth of the late-season fall setting, while long linear tables, tall candle columns, curated paper goods, and a pillared seating chart reinforced a streamlined yet welcoming atmosphere.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The wedding cake served as a sweet focal point and a touching tribute to the couple’s two dogs, who were unable to attend. Custom dog toppers added a fun, personal element to the otherwise clean and sophisticated cake design.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

Faith was a central pillar of the celebration. The couple worked with officiant Kayla Allen for premarital counseling and crafted a meaningful, faith-centered ceremony that beautifully incorporated eight parents and a large wedding party.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

The wedding featured significant custom elements, dreamed up by the bride, Mallory. A graphic designer, she curated the entire invitation suite and all day-of printed materials. Notable details included an expertly crafted column seating chart, printed menus with die-cut scalloped edging, and name cards finished with burgundy tassels.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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Petit Bouquet

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A Joyful, Color-Filled Ocean Course Wedding Day with Elevated Guest Experiences

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Classic blue and white layered with joyful pops of bright pink throughout the florals and details.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Becca and Lee envisioned a timeless coastal celebration that felt elevated yet full of personality. Their Ocean Course wedding day blended Southern charm, thoughtful details, and an unmistakable sense of joy. With sweeping seaside views, refined design elements, and playful nods to their story, the day felt both elegant and deeply personal.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”][/field]
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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

Becca wore a timeless Anne Barge gown from White on Daniel Island, featuring clean, elegant lines paired with delicate lace detailing. The high lace neckline and sheer back added a romantic softness, while the fitted silhouette and flowing train felt effortlessly classic—an elevated choice that complemented the coastal setting and the refined tone of the day.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bridesmaids wore LulaKate dresses in soft shades of blue, creating a cohesive yet varied look that felt both polished and relaxed. Mixed silhouettes and subtle patterns added dimension, while vibrant pink bouquets provided a joyful contrast, tying the palette together and enhancing the fresh, celebratory feel of the wedding day.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”][/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]

Guests enjoyed a lively cocktail hour featuring a raw bar complete with a statement alligator ice sculpture, alongside fresh lobster rolls. Signature cocktails included a Palmetto Gimlet, a Texas Two-Step (a nod to Becca’s roots), and a custom Turner’s Transfusion.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]A long head table anchored the reception design, surrounded by bright, abundant florals that brought in playful pops of pink. Oversized blue lanterns suspended above the dance floor added a striking coastal touch and helped define the reception space.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The wedding cake was a study in understated elegance, featuring soft ivory tiers adorned with delicate, sculptural sugar florals. Inspired by the organic beauty of fresh blooms, the floral detailing cascaded effortlessly down the cake, adding dimension and texture while perfectly complementing the refined blue-and-white palette of the day.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]During cocktail hour, guests were invited to take in the sweeping Ocean Course views while participating in a lively putting competition. Set against the iconic greens, the experience added a playful, personal touch to the afternoon and felt like a natural extension of the couple’s love for thoughtful, guest-focused moments.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Adding an artistic layer to the celebration, live watercolor guest portraits were created during cocktail hour. The custom paintings offered guests a meaningful keepsake from the day and brought an unexpected, creative element to the wedding weekend experience.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]One of the most heartfelt moments of the evening came during Becca’s first dance with her father. At the start of their dance, she surprised him with a cowboy hat—a sweet and sentimental nod to their Texas roots that made the moment feel deeply personal and unforgettable.[/field]
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For membership information, click here

Alexandra Madison Weddings

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Petit Bouquet

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A Warm Neutral Wedding with Candlelight and Overflowing Florals at Edgewood Country Club

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]
light green, blush pink, brown, tan[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Warm neutrals to match the end of summer and transition into fall, my venue was a modern ballroom, and I wanted to warm it up with lots of candles and overflowing flowers

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Justin proposed at Kiawah Island at the Ocean Course. Kiawah was one of the first vacations we went on together, and we continue to visit every summer. The Ocean Course is Shannon’s fave spot on the island for a cocktail

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Maria Farbini [/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

Each bridesmaid picked their own dress to match the color palette, and wanted every bridesmaid to feel comfortable in their dress!

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Edgewood Country Club
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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The florals were designed with a modern touch—lush greens layered with soft, organic textures, complemented by candlelight to create a warm, intimate glow throughout the celebration.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Desserts by Rockland Bakery, the bride’s father’s bakery, added a personal and unforgettable touch to the celebration.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

First Dance: Can’t Take My Eyes Off You

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Custom Matchboxes, Napkins, and Drink Stirrer by @duke.designsdecor[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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For membership information, click here

Salazar Photo-Film

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An Organic Blue Hill at Stone Barns Wedding Rooted in Effortless Elegance

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Greens & pinks[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

We fell in love with Blue Hill at Stone Barns, and the entire vision for the day grew naturally from the venue itself. It offered the perfect balance of elevated hospitality, exceptional food and service, paired with a relaxed, organic feel rooted in the surrounding farmland, greenery, and architecture. With that in mind, we wanted every detail to feel intentional and thoughtfully designed, while remaining effortless and never overdone.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

James proposed most perfectly, quietly, intimately, and completely to us. While we were both working from home, he insisted I take our dog, Obie, out for a walk on a freezing day, which I was not thrilled about. When I walked back into our apartment, he was waiting on one knee. Unbeknownst to me, he had asked my boss the night before for me to have the rest of the day off, so we spent the afternoon celebrating with pizza and cocktails. That evening, he surprised me again by gathering all of our closest friends and family at a bar, turning a private moment into a joyful celebration that lasted well into the night.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

I wore the Isla gown by Leah Da Gloria, a design that immediately drew me in with its clean lines and understated elegance. I loved the simplicity of the silhouette paired with the subtle pearlescent sheen of the fabric, which felt timeless yet modern. Wanting to add a personal touch, I sourced additional fabric directly from the designer and had it fashioned into a dramatic oversized bow at the back of the gown. The detail added just the right amount of drama while still honoring the refined, minimalist feel I loved about the dress.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

I had four bridesmaids and my brother in our wedding party. While my brother wore a tux to coordinate with the groomsmen, I approached the bridesmaids’ looks as an extension of our color story rather than a uniform. Inspired by our palette, each bridesmaid wore a distinct color of chartreuse, butter yellow, soft pink, or magenta. My only direction was the color itself and a preference for solid fabrics, allowing each woman the freedom to choose a silhouette that felt true to her personal style. The result was a collection of satin gowns with clean, effortless lines that felt modern yet timeless. I loved how the individuality of each look came together in a way that felt intentional, cohesive, and beautifully reflective of the women wearing them.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

We chose classic black tuxedos for the groomsmen to create a clean, timeless look that balanced the colorful florals and bridesmaid dresses. The tuxes were rented from The Black Tux.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

I GREEN GARDEN GAZPACHO summer squash, strawberry sofrito Clos Ste. Magdeleine ‘Méditerranée Blanc’ Provence, France 2023 II

LOBSTER CANNELLONI tomato, alliums Château de Pierreclos ‘Au Grand Bussiére’, Saint-Véran, Burgundy, France 2022 III GRASS-FED BEEF Meg’s Song barley, summer squash Château Brane-Cantenac ‘Margaux de Brane’, Bordeaux, France 2020 IV

Passed Desserts: strawberry sorbet, s’more semifreddo, whole wheat brioche doughnut with rhubarb jam

Late Night Snacks: grilled cheese, fries, fried chicken sliders

Signature cocktails:

CHERRY FASHIONED bourbon, red wine, cherry & chamomile

SOMEWHERE THAT’S GREEN tequila, cucumber, fig leaf, ginger, IPA

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Maeve envisioned playful, fun florals for her wedding, a far cry from the classic bucolic designs seen at many Blue Hill events. She was drawn to abstract designs, mostly highlighting textural flowers, including hydrangea, viburnum, and nerine. She loves the combination of chartreuse and pink, and was not afraid to play with unique, abstract options! We color-blocked her wedding party bouquets to complement the different colored dresses she chose for her bridesmaids. Maeve chose a classic, all-white tulip design for her bouquet – a perfect choice alongside her colorful wedding party. The ceremony and reception flowers followed the same color palette that Maeve loves: chartreuse with a gradient of pinks. We also styled juicy green grapes on the tables, and of course, we used chartreuse taper candles. The flowers were dramatic, graphic, and intentional. Something different and unique for Maeve and James! – Abby – Florist

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BLUE HILL WEDDING CAKE chocolate einkorn, strawberry, Stone Barns honey

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We set up the ceremony in the courtyard to create a circle, which I now always refer to as “the round”. Having the ceremony in the round created such an intimate moment for the couple and all of the guests. You are literally surrounded by your friends and family, and I was so glad that Maeve & James went with this setup! – Ashley – Planner

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Ashley Peraino

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Layered White Florals and Island Greens Set the Tone for This Elegant Maui Oceanside Wedding

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The wedding colors were ocean blues, classic whites, and island greens.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Kelsey and John had an elegant oceanside wedding on Maui. They chose lush, layered white Hawaiian florals and greens that popped against the blues of the water. The vibe was classic ballroom meets tropical elegance.

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John proposed to Kelsey 10,000 feet above the clouds at the top of Haleakala National Park on Maui. They loved Maui so much that they brought their friends and family back to the island to celebrate their wedding.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Kelsey’s gown was Rita Vinieris and was a chic, timeless ballgown that flowed in the Hawaiian breezes. [/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The bridesmaids wore ocean blue and were Kelsey’s “something blue” for her day!

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Kelsey and John selected traditional Hawaiian drinks for their signature cocktails – a classic Mai Tai and Olowalu Sunset. These drinks were a special nod to the island, using all local ingredients such as freshly squeezed juices and macadamia nut honey. The food was prepared by Cafe O’Lei, a beloved restaurant on Maui and used many local ingredients as well. [/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The florals were filled with white blooms and tropical greens. Hawaiian orchids, calla lilies, roses, and more. The reception table was one long table so all guests could mingle and celebrate together under the string lights and the stars.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The wedding cake was a timeless cream color, displayed underneath a hanging chandelier on the outdoor black and white dance floor. A beautiful silk ribbon bow adorned the cake. [/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Family was at the heart of everything for Kelsey and John. Kelsey honored her grandmother with her jewelry and a sea turtle dish, including an heirloom piece that was made in Hawaii over 50 years ago. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Kelsey and John wanted to highlight and celebrate the local culture as much as possible. Honoring Maui and Lahaina after the fires was especially important. They selected as many local touches as possible, including their guest gift bags that included Maui banana bread from a local baker and chocolate covered nuts from a small farm. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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Event Planning

Opihi Love Wedding Planning and Design

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Breanne Rochelle Photography

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A Masters Weekend Wedding at The Cloister with Soft Pastels and Southern Elegance

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Pale pink, french blue, white + ivory, soft sage green, dove blue, gold (mixed metals)

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Inspired by soft pastel Spring florals and the timeless elegance of The Cloister Colors. Jessica + Russ’s wedding was on Master weekend. As an avid golfer, we played into the golf theme and created a custom ‘Masters’ logo featuring the state of Georgia, the color pink, and the couple’s name! We even added a putting green to cocktail hour for all the men to get their Masters fix!

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Our story started like many stories do–with an unexpected meeting that turned into something beautiful. We met through mutual friends, and what started as casual chats soon blossomed into late-night conversations, spontaneous adventures, and a deep connection that felt like home. From the beginning, it was clear that we were meant to be in each other’s lives, though neither of us could have predicted just how special our journey would become. Our Greatest Joy A little while into our relationship, life surprised us with its greatest gift–our beautiful baby. Becoming parents together has been the most incredible adventure. From sleepless nights and first steps to endless giggles and countless memories, our little one brought us closer in ways we never imagined. Parenthood became a new chapter in our love story, filled with unconditional love, teamwork, and the joy of watching our family grow. After building our lives together and preparing to bring our baby into the world, one thing was certain–our love was forever. One rainy evening in Miami at our favorite South Beach resort, the 1 hotel, he got down on one knee. It was simple, heartfelt, and perfect. I said yes to a lifetime of love, laughter, and family. Looking to the Future Now, as we prepare to officially say “I do,” we are beyond excited to celebrate not only our love but the beautiful family we’ve already built together. Our story may not be traditional, but it’s ours, filled with love, resilience, and the joy of raising our baby side by side. We can’t wait to celebrate this next chapter with you, surrounded by those who have been part of our journey from the beginning. Here’s to love, family, and the future ahead!

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Eve Of Milady from Bridals by Lori

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Amsale[/field]
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Hugo Boss

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SIGNATURE COCKTAILS = Raspberry Margarita (The Reese) Transfusion (The Duke)

Brie and Raspberry Tuna Tartare x 2 Shrimp Cocktail Mini Beef Wellington

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Jessica loved the color pink and soft, romantic flowers! We were sure to have soft rose colored flower features throughout the wedding in acrylic rose bar signs and dye-cut rose menu cards with hand-calligraphy personalizations.

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Cake was modeled after the bride’s Eve of Milady dress and made by the Cloister Pastry Chef

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

THE WEDDING CEREMONY Prelude: Wildest Dreams by Taylor Swift Bridesmaids Processional SONG: Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley Bridal Processional SONG: Canon in D by Pachelbel

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Harwell Photography

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A Candlelit Jungle Wedding in the Yucatán with Sage, Blush, and Ethereal Style

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This wedding palette was built around creamy ivory linens and warm candlelight with fresh shades of sage and olive green. Delicate blush and mauve blooms added a subtle pop of color. Accents of gold from the candles and glassware added a refined glow.

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Set deep in the lush jungle of the Yucatán, this wedding was a candlelit garden dream tucked into nature. Ancient stone architecture, glowing under warm light, was softened by wild florals and greenery, creating a sense of timeless romance and quiet magic. The vibe is intimate, ethereal, and cinematic—an elevated celebration where nature, history, and modern elegance come together seamlessly.

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The menu was a refined celebration of regional flavors, blending bold Mexican ingredients with elegant technique. Guests enjoyed vibrant starters like stone crab with pipián verde and blue corn tostadas, followed by richly layered mains including striped bass in chapulín adobo and aged rib eye with chichilo negro and charred eggplant. The evening finished on a sweet, unexpected note with mamey panna cotta, pinole crumble, and pixtle ice cream.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The florals were organic, textural, and intentionally untamed, blending softly draping blooms with wispy grasses and natural foliage. Layers of muted mauves, dusty pinks, and earthy neutrals were balanced with lush greenery, creating movement and depth. The overall décor blended artful detail with a sense of place, drawing inspiration from the lush jungle surroundings and historic stone architecture. Handcrafted elements, sculptural textures, and layered natural materials were paired with candlelight and softly draped florals to create a warm, immersive atmosphere deeply connected to the Yucatán setting. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The sculptural wedding cake was effortlessly elegant, wrapped in soft ivory fondant with fluid, organic folds. Botanical details—featuring a statement green anthurium and delicate cascading blooms—added a modern, nature-inspired touch, refined and artful.

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Lynden Lane Co.

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Petit Bouquet

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A Lavender-Everything Wedding in Pasadena Inspired by European Garden Romance

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LAVENDER EVERYTHING

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I’m a first-generation German-American and have always had a big European influence in my life. I wanted to blend that classic, elegant, almost castle-like feel with artistic designs and whimsical garden beauty. I’m a huge fan of art and art history, particularly the Renaissance era. The Langham Huntington Hotel’s architecture and decor seamlessly lent themselves to this with the sharp lines, large-scale landscapes, and unique, old-world interior. If you know me, you know I’m obsessed with flowers and will often come home with a new bouquet of something almost every day. I wanted to bring that garden-esque element to the venue, and Ioxora Florists absolutely delivered on that. From the flowers on the stairs leading down to the lawn to the ground bouquets along the aisle, it all seamlessly guided the walking experience. A majority of our guests were flying in, and we wanted to make their experience as easy and relaxing as possible. The Langham Hotel made that easy as we had our entire wedding there, including the rehearsal dinner, ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, and after party. The destination had a place for each of these events that allowed every part to feel different and unique – from the garden-esque ceremony on the green lawn to the magical ballroom, and then even a gentleman’s club-style restaurant for the after party. The reception area was in the Venetian Ballroom at the hotel, which featured these beautiful crystal chandeliers from Vienna, light pink walls with dark blue and gold accents. It truly reminded me of old-world Europe, and I wanted to tie that into my wedding. The florals, soft lighting, and light hints of color on the tables truly brought everything together. One of my favorite parts of the table scape was the plates: two different designs, with one featuring a purple flower and the other featuring pink. These flowers were hand-painted on the plates, and it was a really nice tie-in with my love for flowers, but also my history as an artist. I love drawing and painting, and felt that these plates just spoke to that part of my life. LAVENDER EVERYTHING

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Davis and I met freshman year of college and were together for almost eight years before he proposed. Everything about that weekend was magical and just so spot on with how I pictured such a special day happening – including being utterly surprised. Davis had three of my best friends plan a girls’ wine tasting trip to Temecula. I had to unexpectedly work that morning during the drive down to wine country, so the girls said I had to be the designated driver once we actually started drinking, which essentially was their way of ensuring I would be sober enough to say yes. We went to three wineries that day, but I almost found out about the proposal because my soon-to-be maid of honor bought “Mr and Mrs champagne glasses at one of the venues for the proposal, but she was a quick thinker and said it was for her brother, who also happened to be engaged at the time. After we left the last winery, my friend who lived in the area said she knew a shortcut to our Airbnb, but that we had to make a pit stop at her friend’s house first to pick something up. It truly could have been a shortcut because it was a dirt road that was littered with potholes! Eventually, though, we pulled up to this beautiful house around sunset, and everyone got out of the car. I followed one of my friends through the front door and looked out through these floor to ceilings windows to a beautiful backyard, and I saw Davis standing on an elevated sitting area just beaming. I was utterly speechless and immediately started crying as I walked to the backyard. He had made an aisle of flowers, candles, and photos of us throughout our time dating, and it was so sweet to see how our relationship grew to this magical moment. Davis also hired a photographer to capture the moment, and some of his best friends were there to record the full thing on video. I was just so overwhelmed with joy and happiness of being surrounded by so many of our friends, and I just felt so loved. After the proposal, we as a group went out to dinner and then continued with really fun wine tasting adventures throughout Temecula for the rest of the weekend. And then when we got home, both of our families surprised us with a celebratory brunch! One of the funniest parts of this story, though, is that Davis, my maid of honor, and I were at my parents’ place for Taco Tuesday the week he proposed, and we were talking about the girls’ trip. Davis had walked the dogs to my grandma’s house to tell her he was proposing, and during this, I brought up how I just had a feeling that Davis was going to show up in Temecula for some reason. My dad, who is often not super serious, looked me dead in the eye and said: “I’m sorry to tell you this, but he hasn’t asked me yet.” I was devastated and cried the rest of the night because I was so convinced, and my dad totally threw me off without anyone asking him to. I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

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My dress: This was my something new. A fun fact about me is that I was a debutante in high school, and I already had my big, poofy, princess dress moment. I wanted something classic, unique, a bit sexy, and utterly me for my wedding, something a bit more mature and grown up. The Monique Lhuillier dress I wore was a strapless, body-hugging silhouette that had a very delicate, beautiful floral lace design that I just lit up every time I put it on. My favorite part of the dress was also the jacket that came with it. I always imagined my wedding dress having long sleeves, but I wasn’t sure it would be possible because our wedding was on June 1st in Pasadena, CA. The floral lace design and keyhole opening in the back made it really easy to stay cool while still having that long sleeve, high neck look I wanted. Another great part was that I could take the jacket off and have almost an entirely new look for the reception, which is exactly what I did! Garter – I know this isn’t technically fashion, but the garter held sentimental value for Davis’ family. My SILs, my MIL, and even my MIL’s mother wore it during their weddings. Jewelry Something old/blue – The pearl, sapphire, silver ring, and matching bracelet were gifts from my dad’s dad to my mom. I’ve always loved the delegate, antique look ad told my mom years ago that I wanted to wear these on my wedding day. Something borrowed – I had a high-neck jacket for the ceremony and then took it off to reveal a strapless sweetheart neckline, so I needed simple jewelry that also made a statement. My grandmother gave me her diamond earrings to borrow, which took me forever to put on because they were the screw backs, and a close family friend, who is also a jeweler and doesn’t have any daughters, lent me a diamond tennis necklace. They were beautiful pieces I felt honored wearing. Shoes – It was a big priority to balance comfort and fashion, and I pretty much live and breathe by Dolce Vita heels. The shoes were elegant, and the block heel made it easy to walk down the stairs and along the green lawn. Of course, though, we gals can last in heels for only so long, so I, of course, switched into my “Mrs. Ender – Just Married” converse just in time for the dancing!

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Flower girl/ringer bearer outfits: The European theme continues! I ordered the flower girl and ring bearer outfits from an Etsy shop based in Germany. I liked how the outfits had an old school German look, and the lavender ribbon on the dress had a beautiful, big bow on the back – it was adorable. My squad’s dresses: There are so many things about weddings that your squad doesn’t get a say in, but I wanted them to have a choice in something. I chose the light lavender color (I prefer the lighter, closer to white look versus the deeper, more vibrant tones) and told my girls to choose their own styles.

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The Tux: I’ve always liked Davis in navy blue, and when we went to Men’s Warehouse, we found the perfect tux. It wasn’t until I was showing his mom photos of him trying it on that we realized it was the same tux style he wore for his brothers’ weddings. He looked fantastic (and very hot IMO).

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Signature Cocktails: My specialty drink was a Lavender Lemon Drop – seamlessly going with the lavender color theme and the amount of flowers we had at the wedding![/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Stationery: Stationery is and has always been very important to me. I used to design my own stationery when I was younger, and I believe that the invitations ultimately set the vibe and expectation for guests. Paper by The Bay truly brought my vision to life with elegant script, gold foil, textured paper, and even more artistic elements, like having a sketch of The Langham on the invite and a gold wax stamp with an E embossed on it to close the envelope. I remember seeing the first drafts of the invites and day of paper and was just like, yes, nailed it! And I got SO many compliments from guests and was told it was one of the most beautiful things they’ve seen.

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Wedding cake: So many elements of our wedding were rooted in my European heritage, and the cake was no different. One of the layers of the cake was filled with German Chocolate!

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Mother-son first look: Davis is the youngest of three boys and has a very close relationship with his mom. Both of his brothers are already married, so I wanted to do something truly special and thought of the idea of doing a mother-son first look. Give them a moment to have just for themselves, close, and start a new chapter, before the day becomes just about Davis and me. Father-brothers-bride first look: I’m the oldest of three and the only girl. I could not imagine leaving my brothers out of this once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I included them in the first look – we all cried, and it was so special. Bride-Bridesmaids first look: My dress was top secret! Only my mom, my grandma, and my MIL knew what it looked like because I wanted that wow factor. My bride squad delivered, and it was really fun to see their real-time reactions to my dress.

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Family close to heart: The empty chair and remembrance tables were never truly for me, but I wanted to acknowledge family members who were no longer with us, who had significant impacts on Davis and my lives. I had framed portraits of my paternal grandfather and my Dad’s favorite cousin linked to my bouquet. He died when I was 8, and I was the only grandchild he really knew, with my brothers being three and two. I never knew my dad’s cousin as she passed away young, but I was named after her – Isabelle Sonja – and that was something I truly cherished. Davis, he recently lost his maternal grandfather, and he was extremely close with him and was also named after him – Davis George. His passing was really hard on the family, and I wanted Davis to know that he was always with him, even on this special day. I ordered a tie sticker for him to put on the back of his tie.

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Flower girl and ring bearer: Our flower girl and ring bearer were both 1.5 years old, so we weren’t expecting them to actually walk down the aisle (if anything, we thought their moms would have to carry them). But we put my MIL at the edge of the aisle because my niece (the flower girl) is obsessed with her, and then the ring bearer’s father brought his favorite toy (a blue golf club) to try to entice him, and it actually worked! They went running down the aisle, and it was really cute to see, and honestly helped settle my nerves before I walked down myself.

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Petit Bouquet

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An Italian-Inspired Wedding at Crane Cottage with a Splash of Color!

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Shades of pink, orange, yellow, blue, purple, and hints of green.[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The vision for our wedding was inspired by all the memories we have made together in Italy— romantic, elegant, and effortlessly beautiful. We fell in love with Crane Cottage because it reminded us of an Italian villa, and we had a lot of odes to Italy throughout the weekend – millefoglie wedding cake, gelato, Italian chocolates, the bride’s aperol spritz signature drink. The venue speaks for itself, so the goal was to enhance it with playful color, thoughtful details, and a black-tie atmosphere that still felt warm and personal. It was very important that the day felt intimate and reflective of who we are, with meaningful touches woven throughout so their guests truly felt connected to us and our story. We wanted our wedding to be undeniably us. But we also wanted to honor the South and southern tradition to bring it all together. It meant a lot to me to have my in-laws and all of Robbie’s family (from Boston and the Northeast) experience the South. We planned our rehearsal dinner around that idea with shrimp and grits, fried chicken, bourbon peaches with almond cake, and the orange peels that flowed into the wedding day. It also lined up perfectly with the Shrimp and Grits festival that weekend on the island.

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If you had asked me what my perfect proposal would be from start to finish, it would have been exactly what Robbie ended up pulling off. My parents were in New York visiting us, and we had planned a family picnic in Central Park. We ended up finding a shady spot under a large tree close to Belvedere Castle, and Robbie asked if I wanted to go on a walk. As we were heading towards the castle, I kept on walking (thinking Robbie was behind me), and I turned around to see him down on one knee. He planned a beautiful picnic for just the two of us and had a photographer capture the moments. We went back to celebrate with my family, as Robbie’s family came to surprise us. We spent the afternoon sipping champagne and aperol and just enjoying a perfect day in the park. Little did I know the surprises and celebrations did not stop there. Later, he had rented out a room in a beautiful restaurant on the water in Seaport. All of my friends and his family and friends were there to surprise me! It meant so much to me that all of our loved ones came to celebrate us, and it was just the perfect day.

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I wanted to feel confident and feel like myself on my wedding day, and that is exactly how I felt when I put this dress on. I felt like the most confident, elevated version of myself. My dress was classic and timeless, and exactly what I envisioned myself in. I paired it with a blusher veil, which was what my mom wore on her wedding day as well. That was a really special touch. The dress designer is Savannah Miller, and the silhouette is Zara.

[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bridesmaids wore mismatched dresses in shades of light blue, featuring a mix of solid fabrics and florals. This allowed each of my girls to choose something that felt comfortable and personal while still feeling cohesive. The overall look was soft, playful, and perfectly complemented the colorful florals throughout the day.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

Robbie wore a classic black tuxedo for the ceremony and switched into a white dinner jacket for the reception, adding a refined yet celebratory transition for the evening. A sweet, sentimental touch to the groom’s attire was that he wore Rachel’s brother’s velvet bowtie, which her brother also wore on his own wedding day. The groomsmen were all dressed in black tuxedos, keeping the overall look polished and formal. The timeless black-tie attire balanced beautifully with the playful colors woven into the design.

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Cocktail hour was inspired by Italian aperitivo culture, with an orange-themed palette setting the tone. Signature drinks included an Aperol spritz with an orange slice, a Negroni with an orange peel, and a peach-flavored Tito’s cocktail named after the couple’s dog, Tito. The reception continued with elevated dining, late-night bites, and an abundance of thoughtful touches designed to keep guests celebrating all night long.

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Florals were vibrant and expressive, featuring shades of pink, purple, yellow, orange, and white, with a touch of blue. Shea Hopely brought my floral vision to life. The cocktail hour featured orange and white linens, while the reception transitioned to blue and white linens paired with colorful floral arrangements and mismatched candles in complementary tones. One of our favorite design moments was the “orange grove” escort display, where seating assignments were written on dried orange peels and hung from orange trees.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

My brother and sister-in-law had a millefoglie cake at their wedding in Italy, and it was such a highlight. We wanted to have a nod to them on our special day (and we, of course, think it is delicious as well!) We thought it would be a fun touch to finish it ourselves, so we dusted the powdered sugar before cutting.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

The ceremony took place in the Sunken Garden and was accompanied by live string music, creating a romantic and joyful atmosphere. It was important for us to have traditional readings for our ceremony, and we had our cousin and very special friend read those. My dad surprised us with an Italian singer, Franco Corso, who not only sang during cocktail hour, but sang Ave Maria and Our Father during the ceremony, which was very special to our families and us.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

As a nod to my(Rachel) parents’ wedding, we incorporated a champagne tower into the celebration. This moment honored our family history while creating a fun and interactive experience for guests. It was a beautiful blend of sentimentality and celebration. Our dog Tito also made an appearance throughout the weekend, showing up on cocktail napkins, a signature drink, drink stirrers, and on top of our rehearsal dinner cake.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Another special detail was the almond wedding favors we left at everyone’s place setting, “bonboniera.” It is an Italian tradition that I(the bride) saw at all of my family weddings growing up, and knew it was a detail I didn’t want to pass on. A bag of five sugared almonds – their hardness represents the endurance. The sweetness- the couple’s married life ahead. And an odd number because it cannot be divided by two, just as the couple is now one. Five are our wishes for the newlyweds – health, wealth, happiness, family, and a long life! We also gave small orange wedding favors to round out the night. We thought it was such a cute play on the typical limoncello, while carrying the orange theme all the way through the day.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]Every guest received a handwritten note from us, placed thoughtfully at their seat. Writing these notes was incredibly important, as it allowed us to personally thank each person for being part of our lives and traveling so far to celebrate us on our wedding day.

To honor our family legacy, we displayed wedding photos of our parents and grandparents. This was one of the most meaningful details of the day, allowing us to reflect on the marriages that came before us and the love that shaped our lives. [/field]
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A Romantic Hedsor House Wedding with Blush Florals and a Chinese Tea Ceremony

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

A soft, romantic palette of ivory, cream, and blush pink formed the foundation of the day, layered with rich evergreen foliage for depth and contrast. Inspired by Miriam Faith’s floral vision, these gentle neutrals and deeper green tones created an elegant, seasonally appropriate backdrop for the celebration. For the traditional Chinese tea ceremony, the colour story shifted to rich red, honouring Eugene’s heritage and adding a vibrant, symbolic contrast.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Set within the stately elegance of Hedsor House, Alexandra and Eugene envisioned a celebration that felt elevated, immersive, and deeply memorable. Working closely with London-based wedding planner Assumpta of AVE Creations, they sought to create an experience that honoured their love story and heritages while engaging all five senses, with particular attention paid to scent, texture, and atmosphere. From the moment guests arrived, they were enveloped in soft floral fragrances layered with the venue’s signature scent, released through discreet diffusers. This sensory foundation set the tone for a day that felt both welcoming and transportive. The overall design balanced historic architecture with organic, flower-forward styling, creating a look that felt enduring, refined, and emotionally resonant. Every detail was curated to flow seamlessly from one moment to the next, allowing guests to move effortlessly from ceremony to celebration. Adding to the magic of the day, October brought unseasonably beautiful weather, bathing the grounds in warm daylight and allowing guests to enjoy the estate in its full autumn splendour. Custom stationery and signage by Olive and Millicent played a key role in bringing the vision to life. From hand-illustrated details to bespoke layouts, each piece was thoughtfully designed to reflect both the setting and the story of the day, guiding guests through the celebration while reinforcing the refined, personal aesthetic. While elegance and intention guided every design decision, joy and energy were equally important. Alexandra and Eugene wanted their wedding to feel deeply meaningful, but never overly formal, moving from heartfelt vows to a high-energy dance floor with ease.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Alexandra and Eugene’s love story began, quite by chance, one evening at a birthday party in a pub near London Bridge. Eugene had arrived early, a little out of place, quietly eating his dinner alone when Alex walked in. He looked up, saw her, and something inside him shifted. It was as if the room suddenly had more light. Alex almost didn’t go that night, but something nudged her to change her mind at the last moment. And when she walked through the door, the first person she saw was Eugene, eating his dinner. Her very first thought was, “Oh, this guy is handsome.” The rest of the evening passed in little glances and missed chances until, finally, Eugene saw her return from the bathroom, looked straight at her, and, with a nervous but charming grin, said, “Soooo… how was the bathroom?” It might not have been the smoothest opening line in history, but it worked, because what Alex remembers most is thinking, “Oh my God, he likes me back!” From that moment, something clicked between them. Later that night, on the way to an afterparty, Eugene took her hand in the car and, with unexpected confidence, asked her, “Do you want to come with me to a wedding next week?” Alex said yes. And just like that, a single “yes” was the start of a wonderful love story that would lead to this very moment. In time, their story took them across the Atlantic to New York, and it was while in Central Park, on Alexandra’s birthday, that Eugene got down on one knee and asked Alexandra to marry him, and in doing so, it started a new, beautiful chapter of their love story.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

The wedding gown was designed by London Bridal Designer, Mara Marie Bridal. The bride chose a strapless gown made from a textured silk mikado. The dress featured lovely covered buttons and a low back. Alexandra paired the dress with a two-tier French Lace veil made by Mara Marie Bridal. She wore pearls from Tiffany& Co., and the look was timeless, elegant, and beautiful. Adding a personal and stylish touch, Alexandra chose two pairs of satin Manolo Blahnik Hangisi Pumps for the day: classic white for the Western ceremony and dinner, and striking red to complement her traditional Chinese dress, seamlessly weaving cultural heritage into her bridal look.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

For her bridesmaids, Alexandra wanted something elegant and romantic. She chose a range of gowns in a soft champagne tone from Six Stories.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

For Eugene’s look, he opted for a bespoke three-piece suit from British. The groomsmen were all dressed in Navy Suits from Moss Bros.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Following the ceremony, guests gathered for champagne and an elegant selection of canapés while Apollo Strings repositioned from the balcony and continued their live performance, creating a beautifully fluid transition between ceremony and reception.
Catering by Goose & Berry showcased a refined yet generous approach, beginning with canapés including seared tuna with sesame and crispy seaweed, slow-roasted duck with hoisin and spring onion, confit Old Spot pork belly with soy and cucumber, and wild mushroom arancini with truffle aioli.

The wedding breakfast featured a bespoke menu designed to balance refinement with comfort. Starters included honey and sesame spiced chicken with fresh lime noodle salad or queen scallops with pancetta and pea purée. Main courses ranged from beef fillet with truffled pomme purée and port jus to seabass with smoked mash, samphire, and shrimp beurre noisette. Desserts included sticky toffee pudding with clotted cream and seasonal fruit pavlova with passionfruit and vanilla cream.

In the evening, playful comfort food took centre stage, with fish and chip cones as a nod to British tradition and the country where the couple met, alongside beef sliders inspired by Eugene’s time studying in America.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Florals by Miriam Faith Floral Design were designed to feel effortlessly refined and romantic, blending abundant whites and creams with delicate blush tones and verdant green foliage. Fragrant garden roses, including White O’Hara, Playa Blanca, and Quicksand, were layered with airy scabiosa, clematis, phlox, astrantia, and seasonal dahlias, while lush British foliage such as viburnum, ivy, and pistache added depth, movement, and texture. Guests were welcomed by a dramatic entryway installation featuring four imposing urn arrangements, meadow-style florals, and candlelight, including two statement-scale pieces overflowing with roses, clematis, and foliage. Framed by floor-level floral meadows, this striking display created an unforgettable first impression. In the ceremony space, a flower-filled deconstructed arch intertwined with foliage and seasonal blooms framed the vows, while sweeping aisle meadows lined with roses and delicate textural stems led Alexandra to Eugene. A bespoke fireplace arrangement added warmth and intimacy beneath the ornate architecture. The sweetheart table was styled as a romantic focal point, dressed with soft florals in clustered glass vessels and framed by a lush ground-level installation overflowing with garden roses, blush spray roses, waxflower, and greenery. Blush and ivory tapered candles added height and glow, creating an intimate setting within the grandeur of the room. Throughout the reception, low bowl centrepieces in elegant ceramic vessels were filled with fragrant roses, hellebores, sweet peas, and seasonal blooms, and paired with blush and ivory candles to cast a soft, romantic light into the evening. Production and lighting further enhanced the atmosphere, with gobo projections across the ceiling and subtle uplighting illuminating the central hall and balcony. A classic black-and-white chequered dance floor anchored the party space. Tables were dressed in chalk-toned cotton linens, complemented by woven ‘natural straw’ napkins that added both visual depth and tactile beauty. Each place setting featured a personalized menu with the guest’s name hand-written, reinforcing the thoughtful, bespoke nature of the celebration.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The couple chose a three-tier red velvet cake by Le Papillon Cakes, finished with elegant white detailing and delicate wafer paper sails. Styled in its own dedicated setting, it was revealed as a special moment within the flow of the day, offering a refined pause before the evening celebrations began.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

Alexandra and Eugene’s ceremony was celebrant-led by Nicola of Ceremonies by Nicola and accompanied by Apollo Strings. Eugene personally curated and arranged the ceremony music, including a bespoke processional to Ave Maria, carefully timed to each stage of the bridal entrance. Guests were welcomed with a rich programme of classical works by Bach, Vivaldi, Elgar, Handel, and Puccini. Following the vows, guests exited to “All You Need Is Love” by The Beatles before transitioning seamlessly into the drinks reception, accompanied by live music. The reception playlist blended classical and contemporary favourites, from Etta James and Elton John to Taylor Swift, Coldplay, and Ed Sheeran, reflecting the couple’s shared love of tradition and modern romance. A live pianist introduced Alexandra and Eugene at their wedding breakfast and performed throughout the meal, creating spontaneous sing-alongs and joyful dance breaks.

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Guests were transported from London to Hedsor House aboard classic Routemaster buses, complete with champagne and water service, transforming the journey into part of the celebration.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]The couple visited each table to share celebratory shots with their guests, creating heartfelt moments throughout the room. Favours were presented in traditional red Chinese boxes filled with Romanian chocolates, reflecting both of their cultural backgrounds.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

A spectacular lion dance performance honoured Eugene’s heritage and led into the opening of the dance floor. Later, Romanian dancers paid tribute to Alexandra’s roots, bringing the celebration full circle with colour, energy, and cultural pride. A lively photo booth experience by The Photo Lounge became one of the evening’s highlights, with guests returning throughout the night to capture joyful, unfiltered moments and lasting keepsakes.

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For membership information, click here

Petit Bouquet

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A Classic Wedding with Garden Florals and Vibrant Color at Brookhollow Golf Club

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Lavender, Light Blue, Soft green, Pops of chartreuse

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

This classic Dallas wedding came to life with vibrant color and timeless elegance! The garden-inspired florals filled the day with texture and movement, setting a joyful tone from start to finish. Thoughtful personal touches, ranging from a custom bar to a veil passed down through generations, made the celebration deeply meaningful for the couple. Expertly planned by Weddings à la Carte, every detail felt intentional, refined, and full of heart!

[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]One of our favorite things to do together is take boat rides on Lake Austin. So, one foggy and borderline rainy Friday evening in November, John suggested we go out for a ride. After some back-and-forth about the less-than-ideal weather conditions, I (thankfully!) agreed.
About ten minutes into the cruise, John casually mentioned he needed something from the bow of the boat. Moments later, he turned around and dropped to one knee. He proposed with a stunning round three-stone ring made even more meaningful by the fact that the center stone once belonged to his grandmother.
After quickly saying yes, I turned around to see both of our families and my best friends waiting excitedly on the shore. We docked the boat and celebrated together, surrounded by the people we love most. It was truly the proposal of my dreams!![/field]
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Ever since I was little, I’ve thought of Grace Kelly as the epitome of bridal style, so her timeless elegance was always top of mind while I was dress shopping. My mom and I searched throughout Dallas before ultimately choosing one of the very first dresses I tried on at the Bridal Salon at Neiman Marcus in downtown Dallas. The gown was a strapless Lela Rose A-line dress with a full skirt. I paired it with a Sareh Nouri high-neck bolero adorned with laser-cut leaf detailing, and finished the look with a Lela Rose cummerbund and oversized bow in the back. My favorite element, however, was the cathedral-length Brussels lace veil, originally purchased in Europe by my grandmother over 50 years ago, which has since been worn by my mother, three aunts, and many of my cousins. Wearing it on my wedding day felt deeply meaningful, as it allowed my late grandmother to be with me while also perfectly reflecting the classic, Grace Kelly–inspired aesthetic I had always dreamed of.

[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]For my bridesmaids’ dresses, my main priority was making sure everyone felt comfortable and confident. I shared a color palette of lavender, blues, and soft greens with pops of chartreuse, along with a few inspiration images, and let each of the girls choose what felt right for them. I’m lucky to have such beautiful and stylish friends… they executed the look perfectly! [/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”][/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

The reception menu was built around festive comfort food served at lively stations, inviting guests to graze, mingle, and enjoy the night at their own pace. Favorites ranged from pulled-pork sliders, coconut chicken tenders, and individual macaroni-and-cheese cups to Tex-Mex classics like brisket tacos, chicken quesadillas, street corn, and all the best toppings. An Asian-inspired station added a playful touch with fried rice, pot stickers, and egg rolls, while a Virginia hot brown slider station offered a meaningful nod to the groom and his family. The celebration finished on a sweet note with both Grandma’s chocolate cake and a delicious almond bride’s cake, followed by late-night pizza and espresso martinis to keep the party going strong.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The reception was filled with garden-inspired florals in a soft, romantic palette of whites, light blues, gentle greens, and touches of lavender. Arrangements of hydrangeas, delphinium, chamomile, and greenery were featured throughout the ballroom and porch. Floral arches framed the room, while a green-and-white checkerboard dance floor anchored the space, complemented by a robin’s-egg-blue band front adorned with flowers.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

I have been a huge fan of Panini Bakery in Dallas for years, and knew I wanted to work with them for my wedding cake. After sampling many delicious flavors, John and I agreed on the almond flavor. The final cake featured a classic, tiered silhouette finished with smooth white buttercream and subtle textural detailing. A cascading arrangement of white orchids flowed down the tiers. The look was simple yet refined, allowing the floral details to take center stage!

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

I am from Texas, and John is from Virginia. John’s love for his home state runs deep, so we wanted to include a nod to Virginia in the wedding. We transformed a paneled library at Brook Hollow into the “Buoyer Bar” equipped with Virginia ham biscuits, Virginia peanuts, bourbon, and many pictures representing his childhood in Virginia. It was so special to bring a little bit of Virginia to our very Texas wedding!

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Just as we started off the night with a first dance, we knew we had to end it with a “last dance.” At the end of the night, when “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield was played, we surprised our guests with confetti cannons and an open invitation to join us on the dance floor. It was one of the most fun and unforgettable moments of the night, with the entire dance floor packed and celebrating together.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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Sarah Blaze Photography

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A Coastal Garden Wedding on Jekyll Island with a Sailcloth Tent and Sunlit Southern Charm

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Set against the soft coastal tones of Jekyll Island, Aislinn and Colin’s palette felt fresh, cheerful, and distinctly coastal-garden inspired. The bridesmaids wore vibrant green dresses that grounded the design in a rich, natural base, while thoughtful pops of sunny yellow and warm coral were woven throughout the florals and details. The combination struck a perfect balance: playful yet refined, a gentle nod to the surrounding marsh grasses and golden seaside light, while bringing a lively, celebratory energy to the day.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The sailcloth tent became the heart of the reception design, intentionally styled to feel like an extension of the Jekyll Island coastline rather than a traditional ballroom. Warm wood tones, woven textures, and soft candlelight created an inviting foundation, while airy draping and natural light filtering through the canvas gave everything that signature coastal glow. The vibrant green carried into the tablescapes through foliage-forward arrangements, layered with playful touches of yellow and coral blooms that felt sun-washed and organic, almost as if they were gathered straight from a seaside garden. Altogether, the vision leaned into relaxed elegance: polished but breezy, capturing the charm of a Southern coastal evening under canvas.

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Aislinn’s gown by Sareh Nouri perfectly mirrored the romantic, heirloom-inspired vision of the day. The structured silhouette felt timeless and refined, while her custom lace jacket added a layer of softness and individuality, reminiscent of a delicate bridal bolero reimagined with modern intention. The intricate lace detailing brought texture and movement, catching the coastal light and tying beautifully into the garden-inspired florals throughout the celebration. It balanced elegance with personality, looking like a graceful, Southern charm that felt both classic and entirely her own. At night, the bride shed her jacket to reveal a modern satin strapless gown with a chic sash bustle to dance the night away.

[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bridesmaids wore a thoughtfully mixed collection of dresses that felt effortless rather than overly coordinated. Each silhouette varied in neckline, texture, and movement, but the shared vibrant green palette unified the look in a natural way. The variation added depth to the overall design — more like a gathered group of friends than a styled lineup — and paired beautifully with the organic florals and coastal setting. Together, the mix created a relaxed elegance that complemented Aislinn without competing with her, reinforcing the garden-by-the-sea aesthetic of the day.
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Food and drink leaned into timeless coastal hospitality, beginning with a garden cocktail hour centered around a classic raw bar. Guests gathered beneath the trees, enjoying freshly shucked oysters and chilled seafood, a nod to the Low Country setting, paired with crisp cocktails that felt refreshing in the sea air. Dinner followed with elevated takes on familiar favorites, intentionally classic rather than trendy, allowing the experience to feel welcoming and celebratory. The menu mirrored the overall vision of the day: refined but relaxed, rooted in place, and designed for lingering conversation under the coastal evening light.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The floral design embraced a gathered-garden approach, layering airy textures and natural movement rather than anything overly structured. Low arrangements spilled organically across the tables, built on soft whites and fresh greens, then lifted with cheerful bursts of coral ranunculus and buttery yellow blooms. The palette felt sun-washed and coastal, vibrant without overpowering the serene tones of the sailcloth tent.

Throughout the reception, the florals worked in harmony with the setting. Hydrangea and greenery cascaded from the head table like they were growing straight from the landscape, while delicate centerpieces kept sightlines open and conversation easy. Paired with woven chairs, patterned linens, and warm wood accents, the design created the feeling of an outdoor garden party, refined but relaxed, colorful yet still rooted in the natural beauty of Jekyll Island.
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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Their two-tier wedding cake followed the same understated elegance as the rest of the celebration. Finished in smooth white icing with minimal decoration, it felt classic and intentional, letting the surrounding florals and colorful tablescape moments shine. Set among the garden-inspired details, the simplicity of the design added a refined pause within the palette, echoing the timeless, coastal charm that defined the evening rather than competing with it.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Cocktail hour centered around a beautifully presented raw bar set in the garden, immediately grounding the celebration in its coastal surroundings. Guests gathered beneath the trees, enjoying freshly shucked oysters, chilled shrimp, and bright accompaniments served on ice, a detail that felt both elevated and unmistakably Low Country. The experience encouraged movement and conversation, with people lingering nearby rather than rushing inside, turning cocktail hour into part of the atmosphere rather than a transition. Paired with crisp drinks and the late-afternoon light filtering through the oaks, it created a relaxed, welcoming start to the evening that captured the spirit of a Jekyll Island celebration.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Aislinn and Colin made their ceremony exit in the same Jeep from their very first date in high school, a detail that instantly turned their sendoff into something deeply personal. Parked beside the lane of oaks, it felt less like transportation and more like a piece of their story waiting for them. As they drove away, the moment captured the heart of the day: not just the start of a marriage, but the continuation of a relationship that had been growing since the very beginning.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

To transition guests from the cocktail hour into the reception, Aislinn and Colin led everyone in a lively second line procession to the sailcloth tent. With music playing and guests waving napkins overhead, the walk became part celebration, part invitation — turning a simple move between spaces into a shared experience. It set the tone immediately: joyful, communal, and full of movement, as everyone followed them beneath the canvas, ready for dinner and dancing to begin.

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These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

Petit Bouquet

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DeVoss Photography

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An Intimate At-Home Lake Wedding on White Bear Lake with a Custom Family Crest

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Wedding Colors were light pink, Light blue, cream, green, dark red, and black

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Mimi & Duncan’s wedding was a sweet celebration of their love, hosted on the lake where they fell in love. The Bride’s parents hosted an intimate ceremony at their home on White Bear Lake, and the groom’s family hosted the cocktail hour and reception at their home across the same lake! They created a family crest using their last names: Lyons and Hart, creating the Hart of the Lyon, which you’ll see throughout the reception.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”][/field]
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Mimi went dress shopping in New York and fell in love with an Elie Saab Dress surrounded by her family. Mimi was able to have 3 separate looks throughout the wedding day.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”][/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Dressed to the nines, the groomsmen wore sharp, custom black tuxedoes. They opted for no boutonnieres to keep the upscale, clean aesthetic going[/field]
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The food and beverage experience was designed with just as much intention as every other detail of the day. During cocktail hour, guests were welcomed with an elevated selection of decadent passed appetizers and beverages as more friends and family arrived to celebrate. For dinner, Duncan was incredibly thoughtful and adamant that the entire menu be both gluten-free and dairy-free — including the cake — so Mimi could truly enjoy every bite alongside their guests. Chowgirls Catering curated a menu that celebrated seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, allowing each dish to feel fresh, vibrant, and thoughtfully composed. Colorful elements were intentionally woven into every plate to reflect the wedding’s whimsical design — from purple forbidden rice and bright green pistou to pink radishes, sweet potato, and golden squash. Later in the evening, a milk and cookie soup shooter was passed as a playful nod to Duncan’s favorite treat — a sweet, approachable, and homey moment that guests absolutely loved.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Ceremony: Ashley Fox Designs and her team created a meadow to surround the aisle, leading to the floral arch under which they would say their vows. The couple opted for a more intimate ceremony at the bride’s parents’ home.

Reception: Mimi wanted the tent to feel as though it was enchanted, and bringing in six trees on the tent’s poles did just that. The chandeliers were intentionally placed throughout the tent to create a warm, intimate atmosphere.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The couple had an incredible cake baked by Chowgirls, covered in enchanting florals by Ashley Fox Designs. They cut the cake as they walked into the reception so all the guests could be a part of the moment!

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Mimi and Duncan took a boat from the ceremony to the reception! They joined the cocktail hour by riding the elevator from the lake up through the floral archway. Guests showered them in petals as they joined their first party as husband and wife!

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Mimi’s veil was a family heirloom that was one of the only items that survived a house fire. Worn by her grandmother, her mother, and now Mimi!

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]The ceremony unfolded at the bride’s family’s lakeside home, with the celebration continuing just down the shoreline at the groom’s family’s home—two families, one lake, and a deeply meaningful beginning to their marriage.[/field]
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Event Planning

Premier Planning Services, Inc

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Paper Rock Scissor

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The Byes Photo

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An Elevated Tropical Wedding at The Gasparilla Inn with Old Florida Charm

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

The wedding color palette featured crisp whites layered with lush shades of green, accented by natural wood and bamboo tones, and soft tropical textures for a look that felt fresh, organic, and timeless.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The overall vision of the wedding was an elevated tropical celebration inspired by the old Florida ambiance of the Gasparilla Inn. The design incorporated palms and bougainvillea for statement florals, layered with rattan and bamboo textures throughout the reception, complemented by green and white patterned and textured vases. The look remained mostly white and refined, balanced with elegant tropical printed linens and semi-formal attire.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

The groom proposed on the beach at Boca Grande Pass, located at the southern tip of Gasparilla Island, creating a meaningful moment in a setting that reflects the couple’s connection to the area.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]The bride wore a clean, timeless gown with a sleek silhouette that complemented the elegant yet relaxed nature of the wedding day. [/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The bridesmaids wore a thoughtfully curated mix of blush and pink dresses, balancing cohesion with individuality and adding warmth to the overall design palette.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

The groom and groomsmen wore classic black tuxedos with black bow ties and white boutonnieres for a clean, timeless, and polished look that felt effortlessly refined against the iconic coastal setting of the Gasparilla Inn.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

The reception featured a plated dinner starting with a watermelon and feta salad, followed by a choice of filet mignon or red snapper, each served with white truffle whipped potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The evening concluded with a three-tier white cake filled with lemon Bavarian cream.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Reception tables were styled with layered greenery, soft white florals, and thoughtfully chosen neutral textures, creating a restrained design that added depth without overpowering the setting. Natural elements allowed the outdoor environment to remain the focal point while subtly enhancing the overall atmosphere. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The wedding cake was a timeless three-tier white design adorned with cascading white orchids, offering a soft and elegant statement that complemented the natural surroundings of the reception.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

The ceremony and reception featured meaningful music selections, including “Simple” by Chris Stapleton and “Iris” by Josh Ross during the processional, a joyful recessional to “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith, and special dances set to “Vienna” by Billy Joel and “Humble and Kind” by Tim McGraw.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

The reception took place beneath a tent on the Gasparilla Inn Croquet Lawns, creating an intimate yet open-air setting for the evening celebration.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Textural design elements such as bamboo chairs, woven chargers, and layered greenery added warmth and depth throughout the reception space.

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]Thoughtful musical moments and heartfelt speeches were woven throughout the evening, creating an emotional and memorable experience for guests. [/field]
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Photography: Cornelia Zaiss Photography | Event Planning: NK Productions Wedding Planning

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Cornelia Zaiss Photography

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How to Describe the Gown You Want – From Silhouettes to Straps!

If you’re like most brides, chances are you’ve been dreaming of your wedding gown since before you even met your fiancé(e). While the vision may have changed over the years, you can still picture it in your head. Now, the question is, how do you get that image out of your head and into words. No worries, that’s why you have us!

Going shopping for your wedding gown can be as intimidating as it is exciting. After all, you are spending way more than you normally would on a dress and the shopping experience is a lot more hands-on. Usually, appointments start with a consultation. Your bridal consultant will ask you a lot of easy questions at first, like when is your wedding date, what is your venue like, then, they’ll hit you with, “So, what kind of gown are you looking for?”. This is where most of us freeze. How do you put this ephemeral image in your head into words? Trying to describe the gown as a whole can be difficult, so let’s break it down into parts.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Elizabeth LaDuca

1. Silhouette

Silhouette is the shape of the gown. Think of it in terms of shadows. If you shined a light behind the gown and its shadow projected onto the wall, what shape would it be? Would it be a column? Would it be more triangular? Here are some common silhouettes for wedding gowns.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Rebecca Yale Photography

A-line- This silhouette is fitted through the bodice and starts to flare out at the waist in a triangular fashion. It can range from moderate to very full at the base.

Ballgown- Think of a bell when you think ballgown. This silhouette is fitted through the bodice and then abruptly flares out at the waist in a round bell-like shape.

Mermaid- It’s all in the name; this silhouette looks just like (you guessed it!) a mermaid. It is fitted throughout until you get to the knees where it starts to flare out like a mermaid’s tail.

Fit-and-flare- This silhouette is similar to the mermaid, but it begins to flare out anywhere from the hip bones to mid-thigh and is fitted through the bodice.

Column- This minimalist silhouette creates one clean line from top to bottom giving the look of a column.

2. Straps vs. Strapless

This is usually an easy call, do you prefer dresses that have straps or dresses that don’t. Keep in mind the straps can be thick, thin, or even spaghetti.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Tec Petaja

3. Sleeves vs. Sleeveless

Some ceremonies require sleeves and some brides just like the look of them. No matter what your sleeve motivation is, be sure to consider the location and time of year for your wedding; it may dictate whether sleeves are a must or a no-go, depending on the weather.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Sotiris Tsakanikas

4. Neckline

Choosing a neckline is often instinctual–most brides know exactly what they like and don’t like. Here are some common bridal necklines.

Sweetheart- The sweetheart neckline creates a heart shape on the bodice. It is commonly used in strapless gowns.

V-neck- This neckline creates a V shape on the front or back of the gown. They can be moderate in-depth or plunge down past the waist, so be sure to specify which depth you prefer.

Scoop Neck- This neckline is reminiscent of ballet leotards. It gently scoops down creating a U shape.

Straight- This minimalist neckline simply goes straight across the bodice.

Wrap- A wrap neckline is created when the two sides of the bodice overlap, ultimately creating a V shape–think wrap dress or robe.

Off the Shoulder- This element can be combined with some of the necklines above and just features some fabric or sleeves that drape gracefully off-the shoulder.

One-shoulder- This asymmetrical neckline features fabric that drapes from one side of the bodice to the other and goes up over just one of the shoulders.

High- A high neckline can come in different shapes and styles, from collared, to crew-neck. If you share that you want this coverage in general, your bridal consultant can show you the different options that they have available.

Backless- It’s easy to remember the front neckline, but the back neckline often gets overlooked. If you want something specific in the back, be sure to mention it to your bridal consultant. The most common back neckline specification is “backless”. This means that most, if not the entirety, of the back is bare.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Kurt Boomer

5. Fabric

This is where it gets kind of tricky. Most of us don’t know exactly what type of fabric we like. We know it to see it, but we don’t know the technical terms. Don’t worry, you’re not supposed to (but bonus points if you do!); that’s what your bridal consultant is there to help you with.

Use words to describe the textures or looks that you like or don’t like, (i.e. matte, shiny, stretchy, sheer, flowy, light, heavy). You can also describe the embellishments like lace, beading, or sequins.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Lauren Fair Photography

6. Color

Most people think white when they think wedding gown, but there are a million different shades of white! Do you like a bright white? Or perhaps a light ivory? Also, it’s 2020 now and you don’t have to limit yourself to this monochrome palette, you can get married in any color you would like!

When you are gown shopping, you will be seeing and trying on the samples that are in the store. Often, the same gown is available in multiple colors, so try to keep an open mind if the gown you try on is not the exact color you are envisioning. Be upfront with your bridal consultant about any special color requests so that they only show you gowns that can be ordered in that color.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Alice Ahn Photography

7. Length

Most wedding gowns are floor-length and come with a train. Some designers offer cocktail-length dresses or gowns with high-low hems. Length is very customizable because you can always have length taken off when you get your alterations, so don’t limit yourself based on the lengths of the samples you try on; you can always cut off the train or raise the hem if you want to.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Rebecca Yale Photography

8. Style

We saved “style” for last because this is the descriptor that usually leads to misunderstandings. One person’s idea of boho can be completely different from another. Same with minimalist, or vintage. Instead of using these buzzwords, use photos to communicate your wedding/personal style to your bridal consultant, this way they can get a better feel for the look you are going for.

If you’ve considered all of these categories and you still can’t quite describe what you like, don’t sweat it–try describing what you don’t like instead and narrow it down from there.

There, the hard part’s over, now go have fun shopping!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Erich McVey Photography

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Lauren Fair Photography

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Rebecca Yale Photography

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Photography

Sotiris Tsakanikas

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An Intimate Wedding Designed for Connection and an Evening Glow at Park Hyatt Toronto

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Our wedding colours were a soft golden beige, pale blue, white, and black. The combination felt timeless and refined — warm neutrals balanced with cool tones and grounded by classic black for contrast.

[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

We envisioned a classic, timeless, and elegant wedding that remained intentional in its simplicity, allowing our larger celebration to still feel intimate. Our top priority was creating a meaningful experience for our guests. In many ways, the wedding served as a reunion for family and friends who had traveled from around the world—some of whom hadn’t seen one another in over a decade or two. With that in mind, we thoughtfully planned the itinerary and designed the festivities to encourage connection and conversation throughout the day and into the night under an evening glow.

[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Our story began in the Fall of 2019 when Candace was planning her 30th birthday later that year, and our mutual friend, Monica, recommended my (Jason’s) cozy little restaurant in Baldwin village as a venue. They first connected over email and later again in person when Candace dined in to discuss details. From those conversations evolved a friendly yet professional tone that carried from email to Instagram to WhatsApp. Finally, after a few weeks of chatting, a date was set, and I took Candace to House of Chan for a Chinese-Jewish dinner. It was a fitting setting; we both grew up in that neighbourhood, and of course, her last name is Chan! On our second date, Candace broke the news that she had signed a contract to move to New York for work. She was leaving in a month. It was devastating to hear, but with our freshly romance-tainted lens, we only looked at how we would make it work and not if we could. Without a real plan, we headed into 2020 with bright hopes of constant travel back and forth between New York and Toronto.

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Soft neutral hues and delicate florals complemented the wedding attire, which was traditional yet deeply personal. Each piece—though subtle to others—was chosen with intention by Candace, rooted in family history and sentiment. Jewelry was cherished heirlooms passed down through generations, and others were gifts her parents bought and held onto for this special day. She hoped that when looking back at photos and videos of the day, she would feel a deep connection to her family. As she walked down the aisle, Candace wore a pair of earrings—one half from her mom and the other half from her late grandmother (Po Po)—combined to create her “something borrowed.” She also carried a bouquet with orchids, a small nod to her dad, who lovingly cared for them in their family home. What meant the most was being walked down the aisle by both her mom and dad. Each wore a suit to reflect the symmetry of the two unwavering pillars of support who had always stood beside her. While the wedding gown is often the focal point, Candace’s evening dress held just as much significance, if not more. In the evening, she changed into a Cheongsam that once belonged to her late grandmother (Popo), tailored with a modern silhouette to reflect her own style while preserving a connection to the woman she holds so dearly in her heart. The look was completed with pearls—gifts from Jason throughout their relationship—and served as a quiet homage to her grandmother’s elegance and free spirit. Just as her Popo once danced the night away in her youth, Candace wore the Cheongsam to do the same on her wedding night.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The bridesmaids wore floor-length gowns in a soft, romantic blue. The colour added a gentle touch of coolness to the overall palette while maintaining an elevated and cohesive look throughout the celebration.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

Jason wore a classic black tuxedo paired with a traditional bow tie — timeless, refined, and effortlessly elegant. The crisp tailoring and sharp black-and-white contrast felt perfectly aligned with our overall palette, adding a sense of sophistication to the day. His look was understated yet powerful, allowing the details — from the polished shoes to the boutonnière — to quietly elevate the ensemble. It was a style that will never date, and one that felt entirely confidently him.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Food is our love language. In fact, it’s what brought us together in the first place, so it was only
natural that we made it a priority to ensure our guests were well fed throughout the celebration.
Our cocktail hour and reception were catered by the Park Hyatt, and we added our fun personal

touch with a rooftop instant noodle bar to cap off the night. Our wedding would not feel complete
without Chinese food, so we carried the festivities into the following morning by hosting a dim sum
brunch for our family and friends. Sharing dim sum felt like the perfect way to close out the
wedding weekend—a comforting Sunday morning ritual we both grew up with and continue to
cherish.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The florals were modern yet lush, with an abundance of greenery to keep the overall look fresh and organic. We chose a neutral palette accented with soft hints of blue to complement the bridesmaids’ dresses and create cohesion throughout the space. Candlelight was essential to the atmosphere — we incorporated it wherever possible, filling both the ceremony and reception with a warm, romantic glow. Draping became a key design element, transforming the ballroom at the Park Hyatt into a more intimate, cozy setting while still preserving its luxurious elegance.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Our wedding cake was a three-tier vanilla cake layered with rich vanilla buttercream and finished with a smooth chocolate outer frosting. A delicate outer layer of fondant gave it a clean, modern silhouette while maintaining a soft, romantic feel. The design was intentionally minimalist — understated, elegant, and perfectly aligned with the aesthetic of the day.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

Our ceremony was officiated by our dear friend Monica, which made the moment feel incredibly intimate and personal. There is something so special about being married by someone who truly knows your story — our history, our growth, and the depth of our love. Having Monica guide us through our vows added warmth, sincerity, and a layer of meaning that we will cherish forever.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Our favorite moments began with the quiet morning spent with family and close friends, where time seemed to slow down, allowing us to fully savor every moment. This was followed by our private vows, a chance to be completely present for one another. And then came the realization that everything had gone perfectly, without a hitch. That feeling was euphoric, knowing it was the best day ever… until the birth of our daughter. We only wished she could have been there to share that special day with us.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Our families share a very similar background. Both our parents moved from Hong Kong to Toronto in the 1970’s to build a new life in Canada. Like many Canadian immigrant families, we’re proud Canadians but still hold our native culture near and dear. When it came to our wedding, it was important for us to proudly display our Chinese heritage and honour our culture and customs. Two important elements held deep meaning for both our families and us. We began the day dressed in full traditional Chinese wedding attire (Qua & Ma Qua) and kicked off the celebrations with the classic Chinese door games. In this playful tradition, the groom must earn his way to the bride by completing a series of challenges set by her friends and family—proving his dedication and worthiness. Following the door games, we held a traditional Chinese tea ceremony in the Terrace Room at the Park Hyatt. It was important to us that the tea ceremony felt just as elegant and significant as the Western ceremony and reception, especially as Chinese tradition recognizes it as the true wedding ceremony. Our wedding planner helped bring our vision to life with a beautifully styled setting: a red couch with gold-accented pillows, set against a Chinese backdrop featuring the traditional double happiness framed with white and blue florals, which was our contemporary reinterpretation of the Chinese porcelain and ceramics we remembered from childhood.

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Whitney Heard Photography

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Rainbow Chan Weddings

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A Modern Art-Inspired Wedding in Rome with a Vatican Ceremony and Sculptural Blooms

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Color Palette: Burgundy, black, creamy whites. Seasonal autumn flowers in Burgundy, rusty brown, terracotta, blush, and cream for Villa Miani. White and green for the Vatican.

[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Nestled in the heart of Rome, our wedding was a celebration of contrast, modern artistry meeting timeless grace. We wanted every element to feel intentional yet effortless, balancing contemporary design and the sacred history that surrounded us. The floral design took on a sculptural life of its own, avant-garde arrangements in asymmetrical compositions, echoing the movement of the city itself. Deep burgundy and creamy whites set a moody autumn palette, softened with seasonal blooms that felt both modern and soulful. Our stationery and invitations carried classical Roman details: elegant calligraphy, embossed textures, and soft ivory tones, to honor the grandeur of the Eternal City and the reverence of Vatican City, where our ceremony took place. Fashion played a story of its own throughout the weekend. For the welcome dinner, I chose a black and gold gown accented with fur, a nod to my husband’s name, Mas, meaning “gold” in Bahasa Indonesia, and we celebrated in an intimate local spot that felt beautifully old-world. For the ceremony, I wanted something pure and proper: a dramatic silhouette with puffed sleeves and a high neck, in a crisp shade of white satin that gleamed softly under the Italian sun. Lace on the sleeves added just the right touch of tradition. My reception look embraced the villa’s avant-garde interior with a butter-yellow gown, lighter, freer, and slightly undone, featuring hand-beading and unhemmed edges. I even customized a matching handbag and necklace from the same beading, creating a personal keepsake from the day. Every choice, every texture, every tone, was a reflection of us: rooted in history, touched by art, and guided by emotion.

[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]

For our proposal story, there wasn’t any grand gesture, no elaborate plan, no dramatic surprise. Instead, it was something much quieter and, in its own way, even more meaningful. When I woke up that morning, still wrapped in the softness of sleep, I noticed a small ring box resting on my bedside table. He had placed it there while I was asleep. No audience, no big speech, just us, and that tiny box holding such a big promise. It was simple, intimate, and completely unexpected. And somehow, that made it perfect.

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The bride said: For my wedding dress, I wanted something very proper and modest for the ceremony look. I opted for a dramatic silhouette instead of busy details with the puffed sleeves and high neck; a cool, crisp shade of white satin with high shine, with a bit of lace details just on the sleeves. The reception dress I wanted to capture the villa’s avant-garde interior, yet a bit more relaxed feel with a butter yellow dress (contrasting the crisp white ceremony dress) and somewhat “undone” intentional details with the beading and unhemmed edges. I also customized a matching bag and necklace from the dress’s beading.

[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The bridesmaids’ dresses were custom-made as well, beautifully crafted by @renkaicouture. Each gown was designed with care and intention, tailored to reflect the elegance of the day while celebrating the individuality of every bridesmaid. The result was a perfectly harmonious, timeless, and refined piece, made even more special because it was created just for them.

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Our wedding lunch was a true taste of Italy, an ode to tradition, crafted with love and served beneath the soft Roman light. We wanted every dish to feel like a celebration of where we were, a symphony of flavors that honored the heritage and heart of Italian cuisine. We began with a comforting classic: Aubergine alla Parmigiana, layered, tender, and bursting with the aroma of fresh basil, perfectly paired with a chilled glass of Ribolla Gialla. For the first course, the kitchen created magic: Calamarata with clams, sea urchins, and a delicate cannellini cream, each bite a whisper of the sea and a nod to the season. The same bright Ribolla Gialla carried through, matching the dish’s elegant balance of richness and freshness. Our main course was pure Italian indulgence: Veal loin drizzled with a Barolo red wine sauce, served alongside crispy saffron-scented potatoes and caponata with pine nuts, a medley of textures and warmth. A glass of Barbera d’Asti deepened every flavor, making the moment feel timeless. We ended with a dessert buffet and the wedding cake, a joyful finale that brought everyone together, sweet, lingering, and full of love.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Our wedding was designed as a delicate balance between contemporary art and timeless tradition: a tribute to Rome’s eternal beauty told through color, texture, and emotion. Everything, from the sculptural florals to the classic Italian menu, was envisioned to feel like a love letter to contrasts: bold yet refined, modern yet deeply rooted in heritage. The floral design became the visual heartbeat of the celebration. As guests entered the venue, they were greeted by asymmetrical arrangements in shades of burgundy, creamy white, and soft blush, accented by sculptural blooms and unfolding petals that seemed to dance in the autumn air. Each centerpiece felt spontaneous and alive, pairing romantic garden textures with modern floral shapes to echo the harmony of old and new. The photobooth space featured sculptural installations rather than traditional arches, branches reaching outward, entwined with roses, orchids, and seasonal foliage, creating a quiet sense of movement that mirrored the couple’s story. The effect was modern, but never cold, intimate, warm, and profoundly personal. The reception design continued this modern-romantic mood, with low, organic arrangements placed along candlelit tables, allowing conversation and connection to flow freely. The flowers blended seamlessly with the villa’s architecture, refined yet full of soul, sophisticated but never overdone. Every aesthetic choice tied back to what mattered most: a celebration of love in its purest form, where every detail, each bloom, each flavor, each note of wine, was chosen not for perfection, but for meaning.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Traditional Italian millefoglie wedding cake made in front of guests with berries on top, and caramelized puff pastry. Absolutely delicious.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

During the ceremony, a classical string quartet filled the air with timeless sacred and classical melodies, each note echoing through the space with grace and reverence. The music felt almost suspended in time: solemn, romantic, deeply moving, creating an atmosphere of pure emotion as we exchanged our vows. As the celebration continued into dinner, the mood transformed. Electric instruments took the stage, and the energy shifted into something vibrant and unforgettable. Modern sounds blended with rhythms inspired by Rome and the spirit of La Dolce Vita, bringing warmth, glamour, and a touch of cinematic magic to the evening. It was a perfect harmony of tradition and contemporary flair, a journey from sacred elegance to joyful celebration, all carried by music that told our story.

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Modern” contemporary floral arrangements with asymmetrical shapes and sculptural flowers

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Classical details on invitations and stationery to capture the timeless grandeur of Rome and the sanctity of Vatican City.

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Petit Bouquet

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A Mountain Wedding with Elevated Western Charm and Texas Roots at River Bottoms Ranch

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

The colors were classy and playful. Green with an accent of blush.

[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

An elevated mountain celebration infused with timeless elegance and just a whisper of Western charm, this wedding perfectly mirrored the couple’s Texas roots. Set against the stunning backdrop of rugged peaks and crisp alpine air, the day blended refined sophistication with spirited personality. At the heart of the celebration was a striking portrait series—a nod to their heritage—featuring the bride and groom in cowboy hats alongside majestic horses. These iconic images became the defining motif of their chic white-barn wedding, creating a seamless fusion of classic style and bold Western flair.

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The groom’s look was a standout blend of classic sophistication and authentic Western flair. He wore a timeless black tuxedo — the epitome of traditional formalwear — elevated with the unmistakable touch of his cowboy heritage in a crisp cowboy hat that felt perfectly at home against the ranch backdrop. This thoughtful mix of black-tie elegance and Western style not only honored the groom’s Texas roots but also harmonized beautifully with the aesthetic of River Bottoms Ranch, striking the perfect balance between refined and rugged.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]The formal dinner was nothing short of exceptional — a beautifully curated culinary experience that blended comfort with high-end sophistication. Guests were treated to a classic plated service, with each course delivered to the table in unison, creating a seamless, restaurant-style rhythm that elevated the entire evening.

The catering team set the standard for hospitality, anticipating every need with thoughtful precision and a gracious, welcoming presence that made each guest feel truly cared for. Compliments flowed throughout the room — from the newlyweds to longtime friends — as plates were cleared and new courses arrived, each more delicious than the last. It was clear that both artistry and heart went into every detail of the meal. Hats off to the chef for a dinner that was as memorable in taste as it was in presentation.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The florals truly stole the show at this celebration, bringing a timeless elegance to every corner of the day. The color palette and design felt both classic and artful, striking the perfect balance between soft romance and playful individuality. My personal favorite was the ceremony ground arch: a breathtaking floral frame that highlighted the couple beautifully without ever blocking the stunning mountain vista behind them. It became a defining focal point of the ceremony, enhancing the natural landscape rather than competing with it — just the kind of considered design that makes weddings feel truly unforgettable. From lush bouquets and jaw-dropping ceremony florals, every arrangement was crafted with an eye for romantic movement and thoughtful detail. The florist and her team took the couple’s vision and elevated it even beyond what they’d imagined, wrapping the entire celebration in blooms that were soft, whimsical, and uniquely expressive.

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The show-stopping three-tier wedding cake was masterfully created by the talented pastry team at Hill’s Kitchen, celebrated for crafting custom cakes that are as breathtaking as they are delicious. It was elegantly finished in buttercream frosting and adorned with the daintiest hand-made floral accents, giving it an artful yet timeless appeal. And beyond its flawless design, it was just as memorable to taste — guests raved about every delectable bite, making it a true highlight of the celebration.

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I can’t forget to mention that the wedding took place during one of the most breathtaking weeks of the year at River Bottoms Ranch, a venue known for its stunning mountain valley backdrop and sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. On October 3rd, the mountains were alive with vibrant fall color — brilliant yellows and fiery reds lit up the hillsides like a living masterpiece, creating a naturally stunning frame for the couple’s special day. As the ceremony unfolded, a gentle sprinkle began to fall — a small, graceful rain that seemed to bless the occasion. In many cultures, a light rain on a wedding day is considered a token of good luck, and it felt as if the landscape itself was wishing the newlyweds well against the idyllic ranch setting.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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