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From Bikes to Boats, We Have The Sweetest Summer Engagement Shoot Ever Right Here

Aren’t these two just the cutest? From their sweet kisses and smiles, to this fantastic locale (hello Inn at Perry Cabin), we’re loving every single one of these pics from Audra Wrisley. They met in college, started as best friends, then gave dating a try and well, the rest is history. If their e-shoot is any indication, we see quite a lovely future ahead but let’s not get ahead of ourselves; we got a gallery of pretty pics to enjoy first!

From Audra Wrisley… Brittany and Alex’s engagement session was the embodiment a beautiful summer afternoon, and we absolutely loved capturing this sweet couple’s love story! The Inn at Perry Cabin was so kind to host us, and we had the best time exploring their beautiful grounds with a greenhouse, beautiful boats and bicycles.

From the Bride-to-be… We grew up several miles from each other in Washington, D. C., but didn’t meet until we both showed up freshmen year at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. We quickly became best friends and, in hindsight, soul mates, but didn’t start dating until our senior year. We stayed together as a bicoastal couple through a few years of graduate and law school before settling back together in Washington D. C. Last summer, we took a memorable and romantic trip to Nantucket Island and with the sunset behind us and our lives in front of us we got engaged. This September we will be married in the Bishop’s Garden at the Washington National Cathedral with family and friends there to celebrate the launching of our life journey.

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Photography: Audra Wrisley Photography | Floral Design: Petals and Promises llc | Makeup: Nour Kazoun Makeup Artistry | Venue: Inn at Perry Cabin by Belmond | Blue Dress: Tory Burch | Coordination + Styling: Caroline Dutton Events | Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Striped Dress: Tuckernuck | Sunhat: Tuckernuck

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An Elegant Baltimore Wedding That Will Stand the Test of Time

Baltimore knows how to put on a timeless and elegant wedding, and today’s black and white fête planned by Stephanie Bradshaw is the perfect example. In honor of her love of horses, this Bride chose an elegant gown with a dramatic horse hair skirt, which looked absolutely striking paired with her handsome Groom, dressed sharply in his uniform. Add in the beautiful, tented reception outfitted in impressive, white and periwinkle blooms by Flowers and Fancies and photography by Michael and Carina, and you’ve got one gorgeous celebration that will surely stand the test of time and trend.

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From Michael and Carina PhotographersClaire and Paul married in style. They are fans of black and white patterns and incorporated them so beautifully into their wedding. Claire wore a gown made of horse hair as a tribute to her love of horses. Stephanie Bradshaw and her team created an incredibly styled reception area with lots of greenery, a custom boxwood bar, and black and white sun umbrellas. A red vintage car made for the perfect accent!

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Photography: Michael And Carina Photography | Event Planning + Design: Stephanie Bradshaw | Floral Design: Flowers And Fancies | Reception Venue: Evergreen Museum And Library | Hair + Makeup: Updos For I Dos | Band: Elan Artists | Catering + Cake: Linwoods | Cocktail Music: Jazz Trio | Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Rentals + Production: Revolution Event Design And Production | Tent + Rentals: Loane Brothers

A Classic Garden Wedding With an Unexpected Pop of Floral

When it came time for this Bride to pick her bridesmaids dresses, she opted for dusty blue floral version from Amsale and the result is so dang pretty. It’s classic with a little twist and fits right in with this Belmont Manor garden affair planned by Lemon & Lime Event Design and decked out in blooms by Lucky Penny Floral. Pore through this stunning day captured by Lynn Dunston, plus even more right here.

From the Designer…The lily pond, canopies of trees, and surrounding gardens of Belmont Manor were the perfect backdrop for Emily and Mike’s understated, yet elegant wedding. To complement the natural beauty of the manor, the couple incorporated clean, minimalistic décor. Emily, who is the owner of the paper boutique and design studio Anchor Point Paper Co., created beautiful botanical stationery, along with custom calligraphy wood signage for the wedding. The gorgeous invitation suite included the absolute sweetest personalized illustration of the bride and the groom. Other details of the day included a delicate lace BHLDN gown, all-white florals by Lucky Penny Floral, and a ceremony under two large Magnolia trees in the manor’s lower garden followed by a white tent reception. The couple enlisted Lemon and Lime Event Design to help make sure their wedding weekend ran smoothly and that no detail was missed. All of the sweet moments of the day were captured by Lynn Dunston.

From the bride…Mike and I met in college. Our mutual friends introduced us. We were friends for about a year or so first, and then all of a sudden we both realized we were into each other! We both fell hard and fast and then the rest was history! We LOVE Chick-fil-A and eat it all the time. Mike proposed to me by hiding the ring in my Chick-fil-A nugget box! We chose navy and dusty blue as our wedding colors with all white flowers. Overall, most of our décor was very simple and understated. The gardens and grounds of Belmont Manor are so beautiful, we really wanted to let them shine!

From the photographer…If I had to describe Emily and Mike in one word, it would be “FUN!” Mike and Emily both love dogs so I love that we were able to capture Mike with his dogs at his family home where he and his groomsmen dressed on the wedding day. Photographing the guys horsing around on the basketball court was an extra bonus! Emily and Mike’s wedding was the perfect combination of fun and elegant. There was so much warmth and joy from family and friends surrounding Emily and Mike on their special day. The couple included a memorial table dedicated to those close that they have lost, and Emily tied a photo charm around her bouquet in memory of her late father, which was so endearing to capture.

Photography: Lynn Dunston Photography | Videography: Well Spun Wedding Films | Event Planning: Lemon And Lime Event Design | Floral Design: Luck Penny Floral | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Cake: Naptown Cakes | Stationery: Anchor Point Paper Co. | Ceremony Venue: Belmont Manor | Reception Venue: Belmont Manor | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Catering: absolutely perfect catering | Makeup: Kelley Unthank Makeup | Hair: LMH Hair Studio | DJ: Mixing Maryland | Groom's Attire: Men's Wearhouse | Bridesmaids' Dress Boutique: Bella Bridesmaid | Photography - Assistance: Chardaie Claire Photography

Multicultural Castle Wedding in Baltimore

There’s so much to love about this wedding, but first and foremost, it’s Kathryn + Arun’s contagious sense of joy captured in the images by Nicki Metcalf. These two brought together all their people for a multicultural celebration at The Cloisters Castle and East Made Event Company planned each moment to perfection. Scroll below for a closer look with even more waiting right here!

Kathryn and Arun’s wedding was full of personal details and sentimental touches, encompassing all of the elements that make a wedding truly meaningful. Held at a unique venue in Baltimore, a 1932 Gothic revival mansion, Cloisters Castle was also the site of Kathryn’s parents’ nuptials some 40 years earlier. As a touching tribute to her late mother’s memory, Kathryn knew she wanted to marry Arun at the Cloisters to continue the sentimental family tradition, and this grand location did just that.

Juxtaposing their own more minimal, relaxed style with the grandeur of a medieval castle, Kathryn and Arun chose farm tables, wooden cross-back chairs, and all white flowers with lush greenery to decorate their reception space. When rain threatened their al fresco dinner plans, they kept calm and still held the ceremony and cocktail hour outside on the patio, with the castle facade in the background. Kathryn’s two bridesmaids wore light gray Jenny Yoo dresses, and the bridal party processed to “Somebody to Love” by Queen.

Guests enjoyed Maryland crabcakes for dinner from Rouge Catering, and later snacked on Frito pie (Texas chili poured over Frito chips), a nod to Arun’s Texas roots. The dance floor was packed until the end of the night, with the groom and the father of the bride hugging and stomping to the beat of the music.

Guests departed with maple syrup favors, homemade from the bride’s family’s farm in upstate New York. It was truly an emotional and memorable evening.

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Photography: Nicki Metcalf | Event Planning: East Made Event Company | Floral Design: Sophie Felts Floral Design | Wedding Dress: Garnish Boutique | Cake: Sugar Bakers Cakes | Bridesmaids Dresses: Joanna August | Catering: Rouge Fine Catering | Hair + Makeup: Ariel Lewis | Calligraphy: Charley Whiskey Design | Lighting: Event Dynamics | DJ: Chi Dr. Productions | Transportation : Viennas Transportation Inc. | Venue: The Cloisters Castle | Film Lab: PhotoVision Prints | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals : Select Event Group

Three Tips For Looking Completely Natural In Your Wedding Photos

If you find yourself panicking over the mere thought of getting those engagement + wedding photos taken, know that you are not alone. Freeze face happens to the very best of us, and if you’re more than ready to conquer those awkward poses and staged kisses, the uber-talented Bethany Rees of DOLA Photography is here to tell us exactly how it can be done. Cozy on up for a lesson in oh-so-natural wedding photos below.

TRUST YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

When it comes to capturing natural images, I love to keep couples moving and doing things, so that they almost forget they are being photographed. Even small amounts of movement can make photos look less posed and stagnant. It’s great when couples are up for whatever I ask, like leading one another through a field or walking quickly together down a set of stairs, trusting that I will always make them look good. Even if they are just standing in one spot for me, I’ll ask them to sway, almost slow dance with each other, so there is always movement. A good photographer knows how to give direction to get natural looking photos out of anyone, no matter what their personality is like.

IGNORE THE CAMERA

My style is also very photojournalistic, so outside of the time we do portraits together, I am constantly scanning the room on a wedding day looking for small moments – glances, laughs, hugs… those are the best candids. Sometimes I even hold my camera up and wait. I can see the photo in my head and I just need something small to happen, or someone to move into the frame to get it perfect, and it happens so quickly that if I didn’t already have my camera ready at my eye, I would miss it! For those photos I need people to ignore me – a lot of times when people see a camera they want to pose or smile, which is great, but normally my favorite candid photos happen when people are just being present, enjoying themselves at the party and ignoring me.

ENJOY YOURSELF

Consider doing something that is just for the two of you. It doesn’t need to be something major, but a small moment or activity together gives an opportunity for me to just document what you’re doing together in an unscripted way. Get coffee, have a glass of champagne together, go off and eat your cake while watching the sunset. Give yourselves extra down time in your wedding day schedule to really allow yourself to relax and for spontaneous things to happen. Those in-between moments are always some of my favorite and the most natural looking photos! For engagement sessions, too, I recommend getting your hair and makeup done so you are feeling fabulous and confident… treat it like you’re going on a fun date!

You want your wedding day to rock, so finding a photog that can ease your mind and help you feel natural in front of the camera is key. Bethany Rees, studio owner of DOLA Photography, is one of those talented photographers, using her years of experience to snap images that are modern, timeless AND gorgeous… and all with an unobtrusive and laid-back style that will sooo put you at ease. We are all kinds of obsessed with her photojournalistic style, and her ability to snap those moments you didn’t even know were happening. Do yourself a favor and contact her today for a wedding album filled with heart-tugging images you’ll cherish for always.

Photography: DOLA Photography

European Garden-Inspired Wedding on the Eastern Shore

I’m typically not one to be at a loss for words but when this European garden-inspired wedding landed on my desk, I was left utterly speechless. It’s the design genius of Lauryn Prattes that made for incredible details like the bride’s favorite poem calligraphed on the table runner, not to mention floral works of art crafted by Sweet Root Village. Lisa Ziesing for Abby Jiu Photography told the story behind her lens and this glimpse is only the beginning.

I’m typically not one to be at a loss for words but when this European garden-inspired wedding landed on my desk, I was left utterly speechless. It’s the design genius of Lauryn Prattes that made for incredible details like the bride’s favorite poem calligraphed on the table runner, not to mention floral works of art crafted by Sweet Root Village. Lisa Ziesing for Abby Jiu Photography told the story behind her lens and this glimpse is only the beginning.

European Garden Inspiration: Lauren has the most incredible sense of style and decisive nature, making her an absolute dream bride! From the start, Lauren knew she wanted a long sleeve Berta Bridal Gown, which set the tone for the rest of the planning. Bridesmaids were dressed in chic black long gowns and the gentlemen donned a classic black tux. The venue is a private estate nestled along the Wye River in Maryland. Florals featuring lisianthus, greens, and other white blooms lined the ceremony aisle and guests tossed white rose petals and olive leaves at the couple after they said: “I Do”.

Upon arrival to the Eastern Shore of Maryland wedding guests were welcomed with custom curated welcome boxes featuring treats from a few special places to the couple – a postcard welcome note featured dogwoods from Virginia where the couple had previously lived, pralines from Charleston, New Jersey blueberry jam homemade by the bride and her grandmother and of course crab chips, a Maryland favorite.

The ceremony took place outside overlooking the Wye River. Pre-ceremony cocktails allowed guests to mingle until ready for the ceremony to start. As the couple walked back up the aisle they were showered in rose petals and olive leaves. During cocktail hour guests sipped on signature cocktails named after the bride and grooms pets, such as Pippa’s Prosecco Punch featuring a silhouette cut out of the bride’s Persian cat Pippa.

In lieu of a tent top, guests dined al fresco under a vine-covered structure and antiqued bronze chandeliers. Signature cocktails were named after the couple’s two pets and featured a silhouette cutout of each. Lauren and Randy danced their first dance together to The Four Season’s, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” a tribute to the groom’s Jersey roots. Place settings featured Art Italica plates with gold matte flatware and menu’s tucked into vellum envelopes with each guest name delicately calligraphed and sealed with a custom wax seal of the local Wye Oak tree. Green vine and a flower also adorned each place setting. Dinner included fresh ingredients from local farms and featured a Chesapeake rockfish and Old Bay rubbed sirloin. Lauren wanted each guest to enjoy the food that reminded her of home.

The head table featured a white paper runner with Lauren’s favorite poem from Pablo Neruda calligraphed on each end. This was covered with a hand dyed silk runner from silk and willow. The cake was a lemon elderflower cake decorated with white bas relief and green sugar vines. Guests also indulged in a local favorite, Smith Island cake, a traditional cake in Maryland with a true love story history.

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Photography: Abby Jiu Photography | Event Design: Lauryn Prattes Styling and Events | Floral Design: Sweet Root Village | Wedding Dress: Berta | Bakery: Buttercream Bakeshop | Makeup: Carl Ray Makeup Artist | Hair: Jewel Hair Design | Calligraphy: Spurle Gul Studios | Ceremony Music: Two Rivers Chamber Music | Venue: Wye River Estate | Tent: Sugarplum Tents | Custom Dyed Silk Ribbon: Honey Silks And Company | Invitation : Cavanaugh Press | Linens: Nuage Designs | Reception Band: Jump Street with East Coast Entertainment | Rentals: Party Rental LTD | Vintage Rentals, Custom Bar and China: White Glove Rentals

5 Bridesmaid Dress Trends Your Besties Will Actually Love

When it comes to choosing the perfect bridesmaids dresses, keeping your besties happy is priority number one. Which means finding gowns that are chic, show off all of their best features AND bring the bride’s vision to life. That’s where Brideside and their lineup of designer dresses comes in to play. From romantic Jenny Yoo frocks to glam Sorella Vita numbers, they’ve got you sooo covered. Scroll for five trends we’re all about in 2017.

HUES OF BLUES

Remember when mixing and matching bridesmaid gowns meant your bridal party had to wear the exact same dress, but each chose a different neckline? Yep, those days are gone. Now you can mix it up with color to add dimension to your ladies, all while keeping the look completely cohesive. We love playing with the many blue options available from Brideside, from seaglass to sapphire to that gorgeous hue of navy that is everything you’ve ever wanted.

Photo Credit: (Top to Bottom): Joanna August + Wtoo

BOHEMIAN FLAIR

You and your love are definitely more Coachella than ballroom, so your wedding day look should totally reflect that. And that includes your bridal party. With Brideside, you can peruse their lineup of dreamy gowns that are so, so perfect for your one-of-a-kind besties, whether that’s an ulta-boho look with flowy chiffon overlays or an off-the-shoulder number that is the epitome of romance with a dash of bohemian flair.

Photo Credit: Joanna August

FLORAL TAKEOVER

Beautiful blooms aren’t just for those centerpieces and bouquets… they’re also an awesome way to make your besties stand out. Think drop-dead gorgeous floral prints in amazing textures like chiffon and embroidered tulle and you are sooo on the right track. Jump right in and have all of your besties rock stunning floral numbers from Brideside… or mix it up with a few florals and a few solid prints. It’s also a perfect way to have your Maid of Honor stand out. All in all, it’s beautiful, my friends.

Photo Credit: Jenny Yoo

ROSE GOLD ROMANCE

You know we never say “no” to a metallic anything. But rose gold? We love it a little extra special. This beautiful hue is the perfect way to add a little modern romance to your festivities and we’re totally on board with the glitzy and glamorous sequin options available at Brideside. Want to add just a touch of shine, but not go overboard with the bling? Mix and match the sparkle with solid blush hues for a subtler look that is just as special.

Photo Credit: Watters

SLEEK AND SEXY

Your ladies aren’t your average besties, so shouldn’t their dresses match their crazy cool personalities? With Brideside, you can dive head first into looks that are sleek, sexy AND sophisticated… just like your loves. Which means saying “goodbye” to full skirts and “hello” to slim silhouettes and flat-front shapes that are flattering and hip-hugging and so, so easy to re-wear. It’s ultra-modern and completely versatile and, well… we love.

Photo Credit: Watters

Promotion

Ready to find those gowns of your besties’ dreams? Visit Brideside today and talk to a complimentary style consultant about their amazing designer assortment of gowns, new showrooms opening this spring and their Try at Home program, which makes your life beyond easy. Oh, and if you sign up with Brideside by May 25, 2017, you’ll receive 15% off your entire bridal party. Just another reason to love them, you guys. Happy shopping!

Bridesmaid Gowns: Jenny Yoo | Bridesmaid Gowns: Wtoo | Bridesmaid Gowns: Watters | Bridesmaid Gowns: Joanna August

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This Inspo Session Will Make You Want a Sunrise Wedding

One look at this inspiration shoot, and it’s no wonder sunrise wins for the most romantic time of day – the natural beauty of the picturesque countryside glows in the soft lighting. Add in ethereal gowns, effortless florals, and antique accents by A Styled Fete for an unforgettable morning. This dreamy spring session, captured by Stacy Hart Photography, has us dreaming of a wedding at dawn.

From Stacy HartThe inspiration for this styled photo shoot was the beautiful countryside sky at dawn – with its soft appearance in shades of dusty blue and light pinks, it was the perfect recipe for this ethereal love story. A beautiful tree-lined pathway to a private residence along the countryside of Maryland helped set the scene. The sunrise glow on the horizon granted us the dreamy light and aesthetic desired. The sweetheart table was dressed in a dusty blue, gauze table linen draped across with a romantic, oversized centerpiece. Florals included an array of garden roses, ranunculus, lisianthus, and greenery. Hand-painted antique china, delicate etched glasses, and antique brass candlesticks completed the simple yet elegant table scape. Charlie Whiskey Lettering and Design created all the calligraphy details for our stationery, inked in gold and gray onto luxe, cotton paper. A hand-lettered cotton ribbon with “forever and always” added a touch of romance to the bride’s bouquet. A loose side bun, brooch headpiece, and neutral makeup gave our model a soft, feminine, and effortlessly elegant appearance. The beautiful gown with a lace bodice and silk skirt had the perfect amount of simplicity and movement. With the use of natural elements and dreamy details, we were able to bring this concept from fantasy to fête!

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Photography: Stacy Hart | Event Design and Styling: A Styled Fete | Floral Design: A Styled Fete | Invitations: Charley Whiskey Design | Hair and Makeup: Gloss Salon | Bridal Boutique: Jennifer's Bridal

This Maryland Fall Fete is the Definition of Timeless

This is the kind of wedding that you’ll find in The Vault years from now and still fall utterly in love with. Timeless in every way possible… from the Bride’s impeccable style to the sweet ceremony, graced in the perfect golden light I might add. Thanks to Elizabeth Fogarty we get to experience that beauty time and again—see it all here.

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From Elizabeth FogartyWhen planning a fall wedding on the coast line of Maryland with a timeless style and perfectly in love couple, there can not be much more to look forward to. Amelia and Jake tied the knot at Silver Swan Bayside in late October surrounded by their loved ones and all the lush blooms and foliage you could ask for. From the beautiful calligraphy boards by the bride, to the speeches by family members, to the plan B ceremony, everything was perfect.

On the wedding day, we woke up to the windiest and coldest day that fall on the shore. We quickly realized that the outdoor ceremony plans would have to be moved indoors. With positive hearts and an incredible team of professionals, we moved Amelia’s garden inspired look inside flawlessly. They shared their vows under a beautiful arch by Blossom & Vine, then head into a soft and elegant cocktail space overlooking the bayside. Jake’s priceless reaction to his beautiful bride-to-be walking down the aisle was the best representation of their love, and was one of my favorite moments.

Amelia and Jake made a point to involve their families wherever possible, and it made the day that much more special. Amelia’s brother started off the reception with a heart felt toast then asked all the guests to the dining room for dinner followed by toasts by her father, sister and Jake’s brother. The enjoyed their meal over hand crafted farm tables and candle light. The rest of the night consisted of many laughs, happy tears, a full dance floor and the start to an incredible life surrounded by all of their favorite people.

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Photography: Elizabeth Fogarty | Event Planning: Adriana Marie Events | Floral Design: Sophie Felts Floral Design | Cake: Fiona's Cakes | Make up: Kelley Unthank Makeup | Venue: Silver Swan Bayside | Music: District Remix | Rentals: 2Hands Studios Events

Blending Organic and Elegant in the Most Beautiful of Ways

Are you a person that surrounds yourself with plants and florals? Then this gem is right up your organic loving alley. With a brick infused industrial backdrop and pretty, pretty greenery from Sweet Root Village, it truly mixes old and gorgeous all crafted by Kruse & Vieira Events. Pore through all that pretty plus so much more in the vault shot by Krista A. Jones Photography.

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Working on Kerri & Steve’s Mt. Washington Mill-Dye House wedding was a dream! It’s not often a client’s taste and style matches yours exactly but that was the case with this couple! The Mill-Dye House is a new venue in Baltimore and was a blank canvas for creating the romantic, cozy and garden inspired wedding of Kerri’s dreams. “We knew we wanted a raw space that we could bring to life and put our stamp on. We fell in love with the Mt. Washington Mill Dye House and knew it was the one as soon as we saw it. “

With a neutral palate featuring wooden, linen and metallic accents the space came alive thanks to the amazing florals and several installations from Sweet Root Village. The ceiling was adorned with greenery chandeliers to cozy up the raw space. The wooden head table featured a horizontal greenery installation and gauzy linen runner. There ceremony and cocktail hour were held in the courtyard outside of the wedding on a balmy September evening — complete with a custom wooden bar, loose organic greenery and a beautiful draped ceremony installation. Guests danced all night under twinkle lights — grabbing drinks from a beautiful (huge!) vintage bar.

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Photography: Krista A. Jones Photography | Videography: Wood Room Cinema | Floral Design: Sweet Root Village | Wedding Gown: Sarah Seven | Cake: Sugar Bakers Cakes | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Hayley Paige | Catering: Copper Kitchen | Makeup: Updos For I Dos | Hair: Rachel Lee (Bride's Sister-In-Law) | Calligraphy: Laura Hooper Calligraphy | Groom's Attire: Suitsupply | Officiant: Kiko Garcia | Brides Jewelry: BHLDN | Ceremony Musicans: Kiss Kiss Players | Draping: Event Dynamics | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Mill: Mt. Washington Mill Dye House | Planning and Design: Kruse & Vieira Events | Reception Band: Prime Time | Rentals: White Glove Rentals

Who Would Have Thought a Turkish Rug Inspired This Beautiful Bash

Inspiration can come from a million different places but have you ever considered what you’re standing on right now? That’s where these two creative souls found their fit, with their favorite Turkish rug – and their two pups – and with that spark of style, they embarked on creating a wedding day perfectly suited to them. Michael and Carina captured it all, the rug, the pups and these two and the endless love between them – see it all in our Vault right this way!

From Michael and CarinaWe photographed Laken and Michael’s gorgeous ballroom wedding at the Mt. Washington Mill- Dye House in Baltimore, Maryland on September 24th, 2016.

Laken and Michael were inspired by their beloved pups and their favorite Turkish rug for their wedding. They had a custom crest designed featuring their two dogs, as well as the colors of their Turkish rug. The indoor ceremony was held in a cozy space filled with greenery and candles, and the couple married standing on their rug. The reception space was a luscious display of hanging greenery, candles and golden accents.

Laken and Michael shared their first dance on their Turkish rug, to tie everything together.

The green, gold and blush color palette went perfectly with the unique stone architecture of the venue. Jenna and her team from Pop the Cork Designs realized their vision of a romantic and elegant setting with a neutral color palette perfectly and created a green-blush-gold wedding extravaganza. Laken wore an Amsale silk organza gown with a hand-pleated floral design skirt to go with her half-up half-down hairdo.

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Photography: Michael And Carina Photography | Floral Design: Crimson and Clover Floral Design, Inc. | Wedding Cake: La Cakerie | Bride's Shoes: J.Crew | Jewelry: Kendra Scott Jewelry | Bridesmaid Dresses: Amsale | Catering : Linwoods | DJ: Evan Reitmeyer | Groom's Attire: The Black Tux | Bridal Hair : PSC Hair Artistry | Bridal Makeup: Izzy B Makeup | Event Venue: Mt. Washington Mill Dye House | Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Paper Goods: Jolly Edition | Planning + Styling: Pop The Cork Designs | Rentals: White Glove Rentals

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The Ultimate Act of Romance for all Football Lovin’ Fiances Out There

The Super Bowl may have passed a few day ago but we’re still riding high on football season around these parts. So when this film came across our desks, well, let’s just say it was perfect timing. This bride-to-be decided to surprise her football lovin’ fiance and the results? Ah-mazing. Before we move on to other seasonal sports, let’s give football one more hug with this fabulous film by Pacific Pictures!

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From Pacific PicturesMarried sports fans know that marriage and sports have a lot in common. Success in both requires hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. For engaged football fans Komal and Shalin, the first step in joining their families would come when Komal would reconsider her lifelong dedication to the New York Jet’s in favor of reluctant allegiance to Shalin’s Baltimore Ravens. A big step for Komal, as in the words of Komal’s brother, “Everyone knows the Desai family is a Jet’s family!”

At their engagement extravaganza in Baltimore, Komal wanted to take it a step further; to show her undying love and support for Shalin in the biggest way possible. Always the one to pleasantly surprise his fiancé, Shalin would now become the unwitting subject of the surprise of a lifetime for any Ravens fan. Totally unbeknownst to Shalin, Komal had arranged to walk Shalin blindfolded onto the 50 yard line of M&T Bank Stadium, the home of the Baltimore Ravens. The big reveal would also include a full blown announcement of the starting lineup of the Parikh and Desai families in true primetime NFL fashion.

We were especially excited to take part in planning the big surprise, from convincing Shalin we just wanted to do a “casual video shoot” around town, to writing the script for the M&T Bank Stadium announcer!

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Photography: Adagion | Cinematography: Pacific Pictures | Event Planning: A Votre Service Events | Engagement Party Venue: Vinoy Renaissance | Makeup Styling: Style by Susmita

When You Meet “The One” at Med School

Stephen and Joan’s love story is officially one for the books…pun totally intended. They met during med school and decided to marry on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, bringing along amazing vendors like Alysia & Jayson Photography and Birchfields to capture all the fun. Peek in the gallery for more and don’t miss the film below!

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From the very first day of medical school, Joan and Stephen were inseparable. They share a story-book love and held a stunning and warm celebration to match! We are still giggling thinking about the speech shared at the wedding by the best man and college friend that witnessed their beautiful and sweet relationship develop over the years.

With Joan’s Korean heritage, Stephen knew that he wanted to propose in Korea where her family resides. So, in the city of Seoul at night while crossing a sweet little bridge, Stephen got down on one knee to pop the question.

Joan and Stephen knew immediately upon visiting the gorgeous Kirkland Manor House and property on the Eastern Shore of Maryland that it would be the absolute perfect location to celebrate their wedding. They wanted to host their event somewhere that would allow all of their out-of-town guests to enjoy the serene waterfront views and to have a place to relax and call home for the weekend.

The celebration began on the night before the wedding with a beautiful Korean wedding ceremony in traditional Korean wedding attire with their immediate family members. On the wedding day, Moore & Co. Event Stylists along with Blush Floral Design Studio created a gorgeous setting with a soft and dreamy color palette of lavender, whites, and greens.

There were so many truly heartfelt moments throughout the day with a father-daughter first look that made everyone in the room shed a few tears. We especially fell in love with this couple’s “tree-planting ceremony” in which they combined and used the soil from each of their hometowns to plant one family tree symbolizing their unity. The reception did not disappoint with Joan & Stephen performing a super fun, choreographed Gangnam style dance that made everyone get out on the dance floor!


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Photography: Alysia & Jayson Photography | Videography: Birchfields | Event Planning + Design: Moore & Co Event Stylists | Floral Design: Blush Floral Design Studio | Catering: Linwoods | Hair + Makeup: Audrey Bethards | DJ: District Remix | Venue: Kirkland Manor | Tent Rental: Eastern Shore Tents And Events | Ceremony Wedding Dress: Elegance by Roya | Reception Wedding Dress: Enchantment Bridal | Rentals: White Glove Rentals

Homestyle Wedding Inspired By Dinner at Grandma’s

When this photographer-turned-bride set out to plan her own wedding day, inspiration struck from an unlikely spot. “We took the feel of our wedding day from one of our favorite days of the week – Sunday’s spent at Josh’s grandparents’ house for dinner.” Opting for homestyle foods and locally grown flowers, their farm wedding was thoughtfully designed from start to finish. See it through the lens of Julie Cate right this way.

Colors
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Rustic

From the Bride… This being my own wedding, I’m quite excited to share our inspiration and everything that went into our special day.

Our inspiration began from the location Joshua, my fiancé proposed at. It was next to a river that we always go swimming at – the path there is full of ferns and the most beautiful sounds of the water flowing, and the birds and insects singing. We also took the feel of our wedding day from one of our favorite days of the week – Sunday’s spent at Josh’s grandparents’ house for dinner. We chose home-style foods that were all sourced locally.

Since I’m a photographer and florist in the wedding industry, photography and flowers were the most important things on my list to choose. I chose Julie Cate after looking through many photographers’ full albums of wedding days – something I would absolutely recommend when booking a photographer. Our florist was Local Color Flowers because their passion of locally grown flowers is just amazing. There is so much romance in each flower from our day because I know they were chosen and hand picked by people who have a passion for growing flowers in Maryland. We settled on a burnt orange, rust, brown-pink palette to compliment the season and to contrast the rest of our color palette which was cooler tones of blues and greys. We had ferns lining our ceremony aisle to relive the moment we decided to journey towards marriage at the river Josh proposed at.

We set the tone with our invites for our guests with the help from Julie Ha Calligraphy – we wanted to incorporate the natural feel of the florals and ferns, but also pull in a little of my husband’s love of antiques by making them feel as though they were old letters. Julie did such an incredible job of hand coloring the paper, tearing the edges and crafting such beautiful calligraphy.

Our venue we choose last minute in May after our original venue got shut down (sigh). It couldn’t have been more of a blessing though. Glen Ellen Farm was the most perfect venue for us, from the love of historic details (our cocktail hour was in barn ruins), the love of farming flowers (the owner is constantly keeping care of her flower plots that she hopes to continue growing), and just the peaceful sounds of birds, sights of deer and wildflower paths. Glen Ellen was the place that fully pulled everything together for us.

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Photography: Julie Cate Photography | Floral Design: Local Color Flowers | Wedding Dress: Leanne Marshall | Invitations: Julie Ha Calligraphy | Venue: Glen Ellen Farm | Hair/makeup: JKW Beauty | Major Flower Farmer: Butterbee Farm | Veil: Love Veils

Summer Sun + Pretty Pastels for this Seaside Wedding

Perfect weather and a beautiful Bride and Groom make for a Vault gallery that we can’t wait to get our hands on. Add in the stunning sights of the sea and Michael and Carina’s gorgeous images, and our Monday just got magical. See every pretty pic right this way!

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From Michael and Carina… Bettina and John-Paul’s wedding is the dream of every bride who loves outdoor weddings. The weather was absolutely perfect and they said their “I’do’s” right next to the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland.

A private boat tour took the bridal party out for a ride. Fresh oysters were prepared at the outdoor cocktail hour.

Sara Reynolds Events created an elegant, yet simple reception area for the couple with gold accents and plenty of greenery.

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Photography: Michael And Carina Photography | Cinematography: Shutter And Sound | Event Design: Sara Reynolds Events | Floral Design: Seaberry Farm | Wedding Dress: Christos | Cake: Graul’s Market | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Catering: Gourmet By The Bay | Makeup Artist: The Makeup Chic | Hair Stylist: PSC Hair Artistry | Band: Attraction | Groom's Attire: Bonobos | Wedding Venue: Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum | Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Getting Ready Location: Inn at Perry Cabin by Belmond | Paper Goods: Minted | Rentals: Eastern Shore Tents And Events

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Elegant + Glamorous Summer Wedding at the Four Seasons

When you have it all – gorgeous Bride, dapper Groom, topnotch venue and florals galore – you just know it’s gonna be good. And then you hear that Michael and Carina captured it all and what you thought couldn’t get any better, just did. Want in on all this goodness? Hop on over to our Vault that is brimming with all this Baltimore beauty!

From Michael and Carina Photography… We photographed Rachel and Justin’s gorgeous ballroom wedding at the Four Seasons Hotel in Baltimore, Maryland on June 4, 2016.

This wedding is everything a glamorous wedding should be – from elegant ceremony drapery to lavish floral arrangements, a head-turning wedding gown and an exquisitely decorated ballroom. Rachel and Justin have an incredible sense of style and it shows! Stephanie Bradshaw realized their vision of a clean and elegant setting with a neutral color palette perfectly and created a cream-blush-gold wedding extravaganza.

The inner harbor of Baltimore as a backdrop for their portraits added to the urban feel of the day. A painter captured the beautiful scene throughout the day to compose a timeless image for the couple. The timelessness and romance of this wedding is sure to sweep Style Me Pretty readers off their feet!

Photography: Michael And Carina Photography | Cinematography: Zach Kane | Event Planning: Stephanie Bradshaw | Styling: Stephanie Bradshaw | Floral Design: Flowers And Fancies | Wedding Dress: Pnina Tornai | Cake: La Cakerie | Invitations: Stephanie Bradshaw | Bride's Shoes: Christian Louboutin | Jewelry: Greenan Jewelers | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Catering: Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara | Hair + Makeup: Amie Decker Beauty | Band: ANDY KUSHNER ENTERTAINMENT | Groom's Attire: Christopher Shafer Clothier | Venue: Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara | Bridal Boutique: Kleinfeld Bridal | Film Processing: Richard Photo Lab | Live Artist: Patricia Bennett | Rentals: Revolution Event Design And Production | Welcome Bags: BK Designs

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
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These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
Say Hello to the Barn Wedding of Your Dreams

Planning your Big Day?  Take it from us, finding the right locale is key. It’s the one decision that can take your wedding from stunning to STUNNING, which is why we’re hosting a little meet ‘n’ greet with Updike Farmstead Weddings. Think one part 18th century farmhouse and one part rustic barn pretty. Get to know them, and their awesome wedding packages from Kristin Rockhill Design, below.

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“As the Wedding Director and on-site coordinator, I will assist you in planning & designing a stunningly styled wedding at Updike Farmstead Weddings!
” – Kristin Rockhill

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Nestled on six breathtaking acres mere minutes from downtown Princeton, Updike Farmstead Weddings’ restored farmhouse and renovated barn is seriously everything you’ve ever wanted in your Big Day venue… and so much more. From the expansive back porch overlooking the stunning landscape + serene farmland to the towering trees lining the property to the French country vibe bursting from every moment, Updike Farmstead Weddings is THE perfect locale for those laid-back romantics that want to say “I do” in the coolest way possible.  And don’t even get me started on their Signature Standard Package designed by Kristin Rockhill Design. Think beautifully styled farm tables, lush florals, a vintage trunk cake table display, a vintage writing desk, a tufted sofa and a welcome drink station + bar cart. It’s perfection, loves.

Whether you’re hosting a larger affair for 100 or a small, intimate get-together, Updike Farmstead Weddings will transport you and yours to that place you’ve always dreamed of. Contact them NOW to start planning your luxurious day chock-full of whimsy. Trust us… it’s going to be awesome.

Photography: Jackie Averill | Event Planning: Luxury Barn Weddings by Kristin Rockhill | Florist: Luxury Barn Weddings by Kristin Rockhill | Gown: Monique Lhuillier | Cake: Pink Cake Box | Stationery: April Lynn Designs | Makeup: Make Me Glam | Hair: Val Hairstyles | Barn : Updike Farmstead Weddings | Gowns: BHLDN | Lounge Furniture: Mazz Entertainment | Rentals: Newtown Rental | Stylist: Luxury Barn Weddings by Kristin Rockhill

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
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The Prettiest Outdoor Garden Wedding

There’s no denying it, Anya & Phil planned the most beautiful garden wedding in the whole entire world. A classic June affair with soft blush hues and fragrant blooms, their romantic celebration is sure to be your new favorite. Captured by Justin Tearney we’ve got every single detail waiting for you in The Vault!

From the Bride… Phil and I were introduced by my best friend during our senior year of college, at Harvard and Wellesley respectively. After we graduated college, we reunited at the 2012 Harvard-Yale football game in Cambridge, and our relationship took off shortly after with a first date in Manhattan that lasted seven hours. Two years later, Phil proposed in the mountains of my favorite winter wonderland: Whistler, Canada. While I grew up in Hong Kong and Phil grew up outside of New York City, we wanted to get married near DC, which has been our home of the past four years. Antrim 1844 Country House Hotel in Taneytown, Maryland was only the second venue we visited, but we knew this was it as soon as we arrived. Antrim 1844 is a stunning, romantic estate with perfectly manicured grounds – from the shaded Secret Garden where we did our first look to the formal Rose Garden where we held the ceremony to the elegant ballroom overlooking the estate for our reception. The beautiful, light-filled property was perfectly suited to Justin Tearney’s timeless fine-art photography. Given that Antrim would be lush and green in June, we chose soft blush and ivory colors for the bouquets, boutonnieres and ceremony floral arch. We designed a very personal ceremony with Reverend Bill Teyssier and wrote our own vows, which brought many of our guests and bridesmaids to tears of joy. During the reception, I was thrilled to see all of the details I had envisioned come to life, from the garden rose arrangements surrounded by tall candles to our four-tier ombré blush wedding cake and signature His and Hers cocktails. After much dancing, laughter, and champagne, we ended the night with a sparkler sendoff!

Photography: Justin Tearney | Floral Design: Love Blooms | Wedding Dress: Lovely Bridal Shop | Cake: Sorby Sweets | Invitations: Zazzle | Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Bridesmaids' Dresses: BHLDN | Makeup: Emily Moesner/Emily Nicole Makeup | Hair: Down the Aisle in Style Wedding Hair and Makeup | DJ: Shaun Rosa of Chris Styles DJ's | Groom's Attire: Suitsupply | Harpist: Monika Vasey | Wedding Venue: Antrim 1844 | Escort Cards: Minted | Table Numbers: BHLDN

Saying “I do” in the Nation’s Capital? THIS is your venue.

There are seriously stunning, sophisticated weddings… and then there are the weddings you have at The Westin Georgetown, an entirely new level of glam ballroom soirees.  Think a luxe locale smack dab in the middle of Washington D.C.’s West End, versatile venue space and customizable wedding packages that are everything you’ll ever need. Need proof? Just ask Jordan and Melyssa, who hosted the ultimate dream day.

With up to 4,500 square feet of event space and room for 180 guests, saying “I do” at The Westin Georgetown is, well… sort of a no-brainer.  I’m talking a drop-dead gorgeous Promenade with hardwood floors and insanely beautiful views, a European-inspired Courtyard perfect for cocktails under the stars and a glamorous ballroom that hosted a navy blue and silver soiree for college sweeties, Jordan and Melyssa.  From their lush florals to their beautiful reception lighting, their sophisticated affair was all sorts of mesmerizing.

Start planning your dream day by contacting The Westin Georgetown NOW, lovelies.  And don’t forget to ask about the never-ending options of yummy customizable cuisine from The Westin Georgetown’s Executive Chef William Taylor. Trust us, this is one decision you need to make.

Photography: Samshots Photography | Cake: Sweet Ladies Bakery | Hair: JKW Beauty | Lighting: PSAV | DJ & Photo Booth: Bialeks Music | Floral Design & Chuppah: Elegance & Simplicity, Inc.

They Married at a Converted Cotton Mill

The heart behind this wedding? A small, family-focused celebration held at a historic Cotton Mill turned venue space. “Industrial chic” is always a win in our book and Alyssa Maloof’s images are the proof. More in The Vault!

From The Bride…We were just about to sign the lease on a venue out of town when my aunt called to say she thought she had found somewhere perfect. She was a short five minute walk away in a building that was part of the original Cotton Mill our apartment building had been transformed from. The Elm, a carriage house nestled away on a side street hidden by a garden of trees and gorgeous flowers, was it. It had the history of our own home wrapped into it and gave us our quintessential Baltimore wedding.

My husband and I are both rooted in our families and wanted to keep our wedding small and centered around them and the things we love, good food, good music and good people. My aunt and my mom (along with the help of some very gracious friends) not only transformed the Elm into the most magical place for our wedding, but also catered all of the food. From the crab cakes made from my grandmother’s recipe, to the cakes my mom baked for dessert, our bellies and hearts were full.

We were married in the garden of the Elm after which our family and friends ventured up to the carriage house’s beautiful alley for cocktail hour where they sipped on John Daly’s and were entertained by a family friend shucking raw oysters and two of our favorite bartenders from a local Hampden restaurant. After dinner, we danced the night away to Jr. Cline and the Recliners, a local band no stranger to entertaining a crowd, even if it included learning few requested tunes on the spot.

Everything from the location of our wedding to the planning, decorating and cooking done by family and friends made our wedding intimate and personal in every way and created a night filled with so much love.

Photography: Alyssa Maloof Photography | Floral Design: Flowers by Alison | Wedding Dress: Justin Alexander | Invitations: Simply Noted | Ceremony Venue: The Elm | Band: Jr. Cline and the Recliners | Hotel: Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis | Matron of Honor’s Dress: Reformation

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
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