I think we can all agree that weekends are just too short, and when you’ve got too much on your plate—they can feel even shorter and much more stressful. That’s where having a Friday game plan comes in! From getting to inbox zero to writing out your grocery list for the week ahead, here are five quick to dos that will make your weekend siesta free of stress.

Prioritize your email inbox.

No one likes a full inbox on a Monday morning! Make an effort to sort through all new incoming emails on Friday and prioritize for the following week. Labels and ‘multiple inboxes’ are great tools to use to stay organized. That way, you aren’t bombarded by Friday’s email load AND the incoming weekend and Monday morning batch.

Write out your grocery list.

First things first, get ahead for the upcoming week by meal planning on weekends. Then, take it a step further and write out that grocery list on FRIDAY. It can be challenging to implement a meal planning routine, but if you already have your list set that means you’re ready to head to the grocery store whenever you need on the weekend, without having to write that list out.

Take care of business.

Need to drop a package at the post office? Schedule an appointment for the following week? Take care of anything that requires a business that is only open Monday through Friday 9-5. Because really, weekends shouldn’t be spent doing business-y things anyway.

Map out your weekend.

Staying one step ahead with weekend plans takes the stress out of the process and lets you enjoy the experience that much more! It’s as simple as making reservations for your favorite restaurant, so you don’t have to wait—or mapping out the route for the concert you’re heading to so you know when you have to leave the house (and how long you have to get ready!).

Ease into the weekend like…

Try to avoid stacking your plate full of to-dos on Fridays. After all, the weekend is too short anyway, right? Ease into the weekend with casual Friday workwear or plan a fancy lunch outing with a co-worker or friend.

This gorgeous oceanfront celebration all starts with a special essential oil wedding blend tucked inside lucite and watercolor invitations by Wiley Valentine. And it makes perfect sense when you hear that the Bride’s family founded Saje Wellness. Using that as inspiration, LVL Weddings & Events designed an elegant nod to all things wellness with all white florals by Oak & the Owl, stunning imagery by Ryan Ray and a wall full of champagne for good measure.

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From LVL Weddings & Events… Daughter of Kate Ross and Jean Pierre CEO and Founder of Vancouver based company Saje Wellness wed last September in Laguna Beach. Kiara spent her childhood vacationing in Laguna from Vancouver with her parents as they were building their company so it has always been a special place to them. So when it came time to get married Surf and Sand was the perfect spot. All the guests came in from Canada so this was a true destination wedding for them. The guests first impression of the wedding was their acrylic custom wedding invitations wrapped in custom tissue paper and then tied with a wooden monogram with drops of a special essential oil wedding blend that they would also use at the wedding.

It was important for Kiara to incorporate the Saje family traditions into the wedding so we set up ceramic nebulizers outlining each space and had and hand dropped their custom made essential oil in them.

Florals were beautifully crafted by Oak and The Owl to create a natural romantic arrangement in white, ivory and touches of green. We also used Saje wellness candles to dress the tables as well.

If it were up to Kiara and Tim they would have danced the night away under the stars but due to noise restrictions we had to move it into the ballroom but the guests wouldn’t have known any different as the entire walkway was draped with chiffon fabric and twinkle lights by Amber Event production. Guests felt as though they were walking into a magic wonderland.

A fun detail was Kiara and Tim’s love for rollerblanding so we had the team and Sweet and Saucy make a custom rollerblade for them.

Kiara and Tim’s Love Story

Every couple’s love story is unique, and serves as a touchstone for the life they are creating together. Today I’d like to share the version they have made public. Some of you may know some parts of it, but perhaps not all of what you’re about to hear…

If this story had a name, it might be “Some Enchanted Evening(s)” with a twist.. They met on line and had corresponded in an easy way, agreeing on roller blading and pickles as 2 things they had in common.

The first enchanted evening was at Buffalo Bill’s in Whistler, where they both ended up with some friends. Squinting across the room, Kiara spotted the guy she had met on Tinder. He had already picked her out and came towards her. They hugged… then they danced…and there wasn’t much talking…just a LOT of chemistry and a sense by Kiara that he was easy to be around.

The second enchanted evening, their first real date, happened when she texted to ask “What are you cooking me for dinner?” He went into master chef mode, producing a spectacular meal of steak, scallops and every vegetable know for human consumption. She turned up all sweaty on rollerblades with a bottle of wine in her back pack. Sounds perfect don’t you think?

Almost, until the word got out to their families, when a little bit of Shakespearean drama began. The families knew each other – very well in fact. Kate and his sister Leah had been part of the same business mastermind group for years. No one thought to introduce the two of them because no one thought it was a good idea! Mostly Kiara got warnings about Tim- from his family. He was a playboy, he would break her heart, etc..

Like some famous Shakespearean couples, that kind of advice just fans the flames…anyone who knows Kiara would not be surprised that the advice was wasted. Besides they were both smitten.. badly…and had other plans.

Photographer: Ryan Ray Photography | Wedding Planner: LVL Weddings & Events | Floral Design: Oak And The Owl | Cake : Sweet & Saucy Shop | Invitations: Wiley Valentine | Hair and Makeup: Design Visage | Calligraphy: Heidi Davidson Design | DJ: Elevated Pulse Productions | Ceremony Music : Ryan Heflin | Hotel: Surf And Sand Resort | Bridal Gown : Monique Lhuillier | Draping and Lighting : Amber Event Production | Gluten Free Rolls: Twice Baked | Guest Favors : Saje Wellness | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Photo Booth : Focus Photo Suites | Rentals : Found Rental Co. | Rentals : Signature Party Rentals | Video : Elysium Productions

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Elysium Productions

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As you delve into wedding planning right after your engagement, it is easy to get wrapped up in the impending wedding plans and let your season of engagement pass you by. Sometimes engagement photography sessions end up serving as a bit of an afterthought or only take place because you need imagery for your save the date.

While an at-home engagement session is especially intimate, and a session in around your city may bring back fun memories, we absolutely love the idea of a destination engagement session!

Here are five ways to know if a destination engagement session is right for you.

In Lieu of a Destination Wedding

Maybe you’re pining to satisfy your wanderlust but a destination wedding is out of your budget. A destination engagement session is a perfect compromise that will allow you to celebrate your union in a fun locale while having a wedding closer to home.

Your Current City Doesn’t Feel Like Home

Maybe you both recently moved and the city where you’re currently living doesn’t quite feel like home. If you don’t have an emotional connection to your local area and you don’t feel the need to have pictures capturing life in that environment then why not travel someplace new? This is the perfect way to remember an adventure to a destination that’s always been on your bucket list.

Celebrate Your Anniversary

If you’ve been planning a fun and monumental birthday or anniversary trip you have the perfect excuse to sneak in a destination engagement session while you’re away! Why not commemorate that trip, and your engagement, with pictures together during your vacation?

Couples sometimes struggle to feel at ease in front of the camera. However, if you’re kicking back on vacation you’re sure to feel more relaxed and joyful, which will certainly shine through in the timeless images captured.

Capture Memories of a Cherished Place

Did you travel together to Portugal early in your relationship? Did you meet while studying abroad together in Greece? If there is a certain destination that is integral to your relational history then a destination engagement session is a wonderful way to pay homage to that aspect of your story!

Just Because!

Honestly, who needs an excuse to travel? We love the joy and excitement that comes from traveling and you are sure to cherish the images from a destination engagement session for years to come!

So, where do you start?

If you’ve already booked your wedding photographer, reach out to them and see if you can work it out to have them capture a destination session. Chances are, they may be doing some traveling over the next year and it could work to meet them in a destination they’re already going to visit!

If it doesn’t work to have your wedding photographer do a destination engagement session then consider a local photographer. Consult the Vendor Guide for reputable photographers are available in your chosen locale! After that, all you have to do is pack up and go!

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Hannah Nowack is a freelance writer, calligrapher, and event designer living in the Midwest. When she isn’t working, you will find her decorating her Danish Modern-inspired apartment, frequenting the gourmet cheese counter, or enjoying a glass of Cabernet with friends.

These two shine bright amid the winter chilliness of New York City, from the Seaport to the busy streets of the Big Apple. Their smiles kept each other warm – and make our hearts giddy with love! Alison Conklin braved the cold weather with them and we’re mighty glad she did – these engagement pics are too cute to miss!

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From Alison Conklin… Thank you so much for featuring this fun cold weather engagement session! My favorite image from this session is the one of them in the steam on the streets of NY!

Photography: Alison Conklin Photography

This bohemian affair planned by East Made Event Company was held at the apple orchard owned by the bride’s family. One word: cute! What’s even cuter is the way they incorporated apples throughout the decor, from the unique gold foiled slices at each place setting to the rich red hues used throughout the day. Take a bite out of this free-spirited fête, courtesy of Love by Serena.

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Alex’s style is free-spirited and bohemian, so their wedding was designed with that in mind (with help from Elizabeth at East Made Event Company)! Alex’s gorgeous, flowing dress from Leanne Marshall was simply the perfect fit with her beautiful floral bouquet by Flowers Unlimited. Apples were in full bloom at the orchard, which was perfect for their wedding design with red and burgundy hues. All of the apples included in the designs were picked fresh from their orchard property. Slices of apple were cut, dried, and gold foiled to create beautiful and unique place setting decor. Originally, their wedding ceremony was to be held outdoors, but, with a scheduled forecast of rain all day, a backup plan was created to host their ceremony in the dancing tent. Everything turned out beautifully and we were able to step outside for some photos when the rain calmed to a light drizzle.

Photography: Love by Serena | Event Planning: East Made Event Company | Floral Design: Flowers Unlimited | Wedding Dress: Leanne Marshall | Cakes: Frosted Fantasies | Stationery: Shotgunning for Love Letters | Bride's Shoes: Sam Edelman | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Show Me Your Mumu | Catering: Kim James - Six Star Events | Hair + Makeup: Sas Studio And Salon | Calligraphy: Shotgunning for Love Letters | DJ: GS Productions | Officiant: Pastor Bill Ball | Transportation: Formal Express | Venue: The Barn at York Hill | Groom's Shoes: Aldo | Musician: Sam Rizetta | Rentals: Jefferson Rentals | Vintage Rentals: White Glove Rentals

If we’re being honest, finding the right wedding venue can be a little tricky. It takes time, patience and maybe a lucky break or two. That’s why we are so excited for the 5th annual Wedding Show Weekend happening on March 10th and 11th. Hosted by the venue-finding geniuses at Country Club Receptions, it features over 35 country clubs and golf courses across the country (including three in New York and one in New Jersey). In other words? It’s your chance to find that perfect venue all in one weekend – for free.

We know there are a lot of wedding shows out there, but Wedding Show Weekend is different. It’s stress-free, convenient and free – and with two fab country clubs in New York and one in New Jersey, you’re sure to find the right venue for you and yours. Like one of the Wedding Show Weekend’s coolest venues, the Dyker Beach Golf Course. It’s a historic Brooklyn icon that opened over 100+ years ago and the elegant decor + 6,000-square-foot patio are awesome. Also on our love list? The Pelham Bay and Split Rock Golf Courses, aka, two Bronx treasures that originally opened in 1901. If you love anything and everything Art Deco, the ballrooms will floor you. Oh, and speaking of ballrooms – the Beaver Brook Country Club in Hunterdon County, New Jersey is a one-of-a-kind venue that can host 180 guests. Plus, the views are insanely gorgeous.

Whether you’re planning the celebration of a lifetime in New York or New Jersey, the Wedding Show Weekend is your one-stop venue shop with four country clubs and golf courses that are perfect for hosting your big event. Also perfect? Not taking weeks upon weeks to find that venue of your dreams and literally filling one amazing weekend with all of the locales you’ve been eyeing, so you can start planning. Not to mention the amazing vendors, on-site directors and tasty cuisine for you to sample.

Ready to meet the venue + vendor team that will make your dream day happen? RSVP for free on the Wedding Show Weekend’s website and start planning your two days of venue hopping. And be sure to visit their Pinterest, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for even more inspiration.

Photography: Cherryville Photography | Photography: Matthew Sowa Photography | Photography: George Street | Photography: Photography By Alfonso | Photography: Ricky Restiano | Venue: MountainGate Country Club | Venue: MountainGate Country Club | Venue: MountainGate Country Club | Venue: MountainGate Country Club | Bridal Show: Wedding Show Weekend

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I may be a bit biased (I was a semi-sleeved bride myself!), but I feel confident in saying that sleeves are sexier than ever in the wedding fashion world. From off-the-shoulder styles to embellished numbers to lace-wrapped beauties, here are a handful of dresses that stun with sleeves.

Off-the-Shoulder

An off-the-shoulder style sleeve is flirty, yet still classy.

Elegant Embellishments

Take your sleeves to the next level with patterning and embellishments like this geometric, beaded number below.

Laced in Love

A sheer layer of lace wraps this bride below in elegant style.

A hint of lace takes these sleeves below from modest to magnificent.

Timeless in a Two-Piece

Keep a modern style like this two-piece classy with sophisticated sleeves!

This beautiful celebration – and this darling duo – are the epitome of pure romance. Every image in this gorgeous gallery is picture perfect, from the stunning venue views to the looks of sweet love between these two – and we have Natalie Bray Studios to thank for that. All in all, we have a wedding that pretty much demands you get into a good mood from it – so soak it all up and enjoy! You can thank us later!

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From Natalie Bray Studios… On a beautiful summer day, Kate and RG wed in the golden California sunshine with the Pacific Ocean as their backdrop. It was a stunning celebration planned wonderfully by Jenna of Dive D Day Wedding Planning. Jenna designed a celebration that was full of life and elegance and culture. It was a true joy to be a part of this love story. The florals were full of vibrance with peonies and touches of lavender. Each detail was well thought out and reflective of Kate and RG’s love story. Kate glowed with joy every time she looked at RG. You can feel the happiness from all who attended.

Photography: Natalie Bray Studios | Videography: Natalie Bray Studios | Event Planning + Design : Divine D-day Wedding Planning | Floral Design: Floria | Cake: Grace & Honey Cakes | Ceremony Venue: Ole Hanson Beach Club | Catering: Giracci Vineyards Farms | Hair + Makeup: red Kelly make up | Entertainment: soulmate events

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Natalie Bray Studios

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Wanting to showcase the best of California for their International guests, this Bride and Groom landed on the iconic lavender fields of San Ysidro Ranch to host their big day. The result planned by Joy Proctor, with florals by Camellia Floral Design, can be likened to an insanely chic secret garden wedding. But our favorite part? It’s a tie between the holy cute flower girl and the Dog of honor. Get lost in all that cuteness and more so perfectly captured by Michael Radford and a film by 618 Studios below.

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Mandy and Jason chose the iconic San Ysidro Ranch to exchange their vows. With half of their guests coming from China, it was important to them to choose a location that reflected the best of their home state of California. From its iconic lavender lined driveway to its lush, herb and rose gardens, the Ranch served as the perfect backdrop for the day.

Guests were welcomed with passed drinks, as they explored the gardens serenaded by music. After taking their seats in front of a flower filled arch, the bridal party entered, accompanied by the couples dog, Malu. The bride entered accompanied by her parents, carrying a lush garden inspired bouquet in tones of white and green. As the couple was pronounced man and wife, guests threw rose, lavender and rosemary petals from small linen bags. Guests were invited to cocktail hour on an adjoining lawn where they took photos in a photo booth and wandered the gardens before dinner.

Walking through the Old Adobe, one of the oldest structures in the Santa Barbara area, guests found their seating assignments on hung from the beams of the building before entering the reception. Greenery hung from the chandeliers and over the fireplace brought the charm of the gardens into the reception, lit by heavy candle light and a wood fire. Each guest received a box of herb garden flavored truffles, with their name in calligraphy, indicating their seat assignment.

The evening began with toasts from both the bride and grooms families before a three course dinner was served. After dinner the couple cut the cake and invited guests to the outdoor patio to dance. The grooms parents who were unable to attend, had recorded a beautiful video that was played as a surprise to the groom, to whom it meant the world. The guests continued to dance under the stars and celebrate the beautiful day.

Photography: Michael Radford Photography | Event Planning: Joy Proctor Design | Floral Design: Camellia Floral Design | Cake: San ysidro Ranch | Hair & Makeup: Makeup By Sung | Calligraphy: Leslee Sipress | Transportation: Gold Coast Limos | DJ / Guitarist : Gavin Roy | Linen: BBJ La Tavola | Paper Goods: Lazaro Press & Design | Truffles: Jessica Foster Confections | rentals: The Tent Merchant | videographers: 618 Studios

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Joy Proctor Design

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You’ve said yes. You’ve asked your bridesmaids. But there’s still one important ask to be made. If you have a little girl in your life who you’d love to see as your flower girl, make her day by asking her to be part of your wedding in a special way!

Here are a few ideas to get your wheels rolling. Don’t forget — always ask her parents first!

Gift Her A Piece Of Jewelry

If she’s the type of little girl who loves to play dress-up, she’ll feel incredibly grown up. Bonus points if you give her something she can wear on the big day! Etsy has tons of great options.

Curate A Fun “Will You Be My Flower Girl?” Box

Similar to the bridesmaids trend, you can create a box for your flower girl with things like sunglasses, hair ties, and other fun accessories.

Write Her A Letter

Go the sentimental route by putting into words why exactly she means so much to you and how honored you’d be to have her by your side on the most important day of your life.

Create A Personalized Puzzle

This would be such a sweet way to make the ask! Plus a wooden one like this one makes such a perfect keepsake.

Take Her Out For A Special One-On-One Ice Cream Date

If she’s someone you’re incredibly familiar with, like a cousin you’ve babysat since her birth, treat her to a special dessert and make the ask in person.

Ask Her And The Ring Bearer Together

If they’re in the same area, see if you can snag both the little girl and little boy for the big ask. It will be so cute to see them get excited together for their big moment!

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Claire Swinarski is a writer and podcaster based in Wisconsin. When she isn’t writing, she can be found obsessing over football, eating a burrito bowl, or hanging out with her husband and son.

Donuts? Check. Cute pup? Check. The love of your life? Check! We have it all right here folks, in this adorable morning engagement shoot captured by Heather Cook Elliott. Chicago may be blustery and cold but these two kept each other warm and smiling from start to finish (though we’re betting the caffeine and sweet treats helped too!). Start your day with these cuties and their furry friend right this way!

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From Heather Cook Elliott… Sometimes things just click… into place, into a place, in A place with A person. For Whitney and Aaron that person is each other and the place is Chicago. They work downtown (across the street from one another), live within view of the iconic skyline and it’s been that way for awhile now. When they met they both lived close to the Blue Line stop at Damen & North and they’ve worked their way south and east over time, adding a sweet (and adorably energetic) pup named Ella to their family. So on a cold but sunny Chicago day – dare I say a classic Windy City day? – we took a meander through the past right into their now, often talking about their future. It started as any good day should: with coffee and donuts at Stan’s and then on to meet Ella at home with a final stop by the river. It was romantic, sweet and full of love and laughter. It was the best kind of morning for the best kind of love story.

Photography: Heather Cook Elliott Photography

If I had seen this room completely empty and you were to tell me that it would eventually be a kitchen, dining and living room all in one, I wouldn’t have believed you! But with Marie Flanigan behind the design helm, this guest home captured by Julie Soefer soars above it’s small footprint and makes a statement, with a few designer secrets Marie is sharing with us today.

Keep it Light and Bright

Lightening up your walls instantly makes your space feel larger! I chose Benjamin Moore Cloud White for the spaces in this modestly-sized guest home and love the bright, welcoming canvas the hue provides. It offers the eye welcome moments of rest while allowing a sophisticated combination of raw and streamlined elements to shine!

Embrace the Multi-Purpose Space

When you’re designing within a smaller footprint, square footage is at a premium. Make the most of every inch by creating versatile living spaces that are defined by furniture groupings in lieu of walls. I combined the kitchen, dining room, and living space into one open concept area tied together through architectural detailing. The transom window further delineates each space while still allowing for fluidity and a steady stream of natural light.

Great Heights

If long drapery is appropriate for your space, use it to your advantage! Be sure that the panels are installed from the floor to just below your room’s ceiling to create a long line that draws the eye up, making the entire space feel more impressive.

Don’t Fear the Scale

Most clients fret over using large-scale art and accessories in a smaller space, but when combined properly, these items can actually help your space feel bigger! In particular, lighting has a tremendous impact on every home, especially within a smaller space, where fixtures that feel unexpected in size and grandeur can really dial in on the drama.

High Function Furnishings

No matter how you decide to furnish your smaller space, keep in mind that versatility is key! Maintain a minimalist vibe by incorporating less items that are capable of doing more, such as this dining table that also serves as the kitchen island or seating arrangements that also boast storage.

Clutter-Free Counters

Maximizing functionality in a kitchen with limited square footage is an exciting challenge because every nook presents possibility! Areas that are typically designated as “wasted space” are perfect for optimizing storage; install functioning drawers, corner cabinets, and upper cabinets when possible so that you can easily stash away all of those kitchen gadgets that quickly clutter up counters.

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About this home… A Houston couple in the midst of remodeling their 1940s River Oaks home decided that guest quarters for visiting family and friends should be added to the back of the property. They wanted the home constructed over a fully operational garage and were adamant that the structure share the same traditional River Oaks style they fell in love with. They enlisted the help of a local builder to make this new construction with classic style a reality and a design team to ensure that the interior details of the guest home were flawlessly aligned with the details they treasured in their main home.

Modestly-sized spaces were fitted with interesting architectural details, a color story that remains soft with brief bursts of bold color, and tailored décor featuring bold textures and industrial accents. The entry features handsome grid paneling, integrated stairway downlighting and a sleek custom handrail, creating an inviting space that sets a well-edited tone for the rest of the spaces to come. Once up the stairs, grid paneling gives way to shiplap paneling which is integrated throughout the majority of the living spaces. Superior functionality and lighting were essential to the success of the home’s design and these were achieved through the use of creatively hidden storage, multi-purpose furnishings and the addition of varying light forms. Paneled walls hide closets, cased openings and doorways were accented with shelves for storage and the kitchen table serves as both an island and the perfect spot for guests to dine. The home’s main windows were installed facing north and transom windows separate the living areas, allowing the home to embrace all the natural light Texas has to offer. A generous mixture of lighting sources combine beautifully with the home’s architectural elements and furnishings, creating the perfect getaway for guests.

Photography: Julie Soefer | Interior Design: Marie Flanigan

As much as I adore weddings, there is a special place in my heart for anniversary sessiona. Marriage is hard work, ya’ll, and each year a couple goes through hand in hand, through the beautiful moments and the painful moments, is something to be celebrated and documented! Which brings me to today’s Washington DC anniversary session captured by Novaes Photography. Yes, this is one good looking and super stylish duo, but what brings me chills is the expression of love and respect in each of their eyes when they look at each other and their touching words below. They get it.

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From the couple… After our marriage in October 2016, Krishaun and I spent the next year planning and navigating our life to promote love, hope, and joy through our love as husband and wife. We spent the year working towards building a foundation for our future family and worked tirelessly to become the best versions of ourselves with these new found roles. As newlyweds, we focused monthly on our vision as a couple. The 15th of every month finds us having what we call “navigator’s conferences” – moments when we take the time to remove ourselves from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and focus on our marriage – physically, mentally, and spiritually. During this time we reflect on what’s working in the marriage, what can be improved, and what aspirations we have not only for our marriage, but also most importantly for each of us as individuals. Although being husband and wife are our first and foremost roles, we understand that we are individuals who yearn to grow. We act as one another’s personal cheerleader, pushing one another to continue to strive for excellence. The first year of marriage was a phenomenal time of growth and love. We traveled, we laughed, we lived, and we loved. We developed a deep partnership focused on building a legacy and look forward to the years to come.

Photography: Rudney Novaes | Floral Design: Fleur de Charme | Dress: Rent The Runway | Dress: Cathy Ebrada | Hair + Makeup: Samara Weiss Makeup Artist | Groom's Attire: ASOS | Venue: Union Station Washington DC | Brut Champagne: Korbel California Champagne | Champagne Flutes: Le Creuset | Event Planning + Styling: Luisa Rodriguez | Film Processing: The Find Lab | Film Stock: Fuji Film | Tie: Calvin Klein

Michelle’s vision for her wedding day was simple: a romantic, intimate setting with a sweet boho vibe. A truly gorgeous concept, but one that needs a truly gorgeous locale to work. Enter Sole East Resort, a stunning resort smack-dab in the heart of Michelle and Mike’s engagement city – Montauk. From the breathtaking gardens to the yummy cuisine (hey there, lobster rolls), it was a night that these two loves will never forget, complete with s’mores. Scroll to get inspired by every beautiful moment below.

From the Bride… I had a vision that my wedding would have a slight bohemian vibe, with whimsical accents and flowers. I knew I wanted it held in a romantic, intimate setting. Lucky for Mike and me – that’s exactly how it came to life. Sole East Resort had the perfect mix of what we were looking for: a beachy/boho vibe that still felt elevated enough to have black-tie optional, a space that our wedding guests could easily take over for a whole weekend as a home base, and a venue that could accommodate both the ceremony, reception and after party without having to move our guests in between.

My color palette was neutrals for the bridesmaids and paper (i.e. invites, menus, signs, etc.), but I definitely wanted a lot of different bold colors for the wild flowers. This worked well in the garden setting of Sole East Resort. We did our first look and initial pics before the ceremony at Sole East Resort and then at a spot out near Ditch Plains, but the Sole East Resort grounds were so beautiful in June with all of the flowers and greenery and are some of my favorites.

I loved the custom escort card display that my planner, James, put together. He created this huge tree out of wild flowers which was inspired by the tree we got married under at Sole East Resort. It was beautiful. Mike had the idea of using names of surf breaks as our table numbers instead of actual numbers, and we loved how that came to life. The reception was under a beautiful sailcloth tent that fit perfectly on Sole East Resort’s grounds. The shrubs make it very unique and didn’t interrupt the layout at all. My dress (Reem Acra) was my absolute favorite. I got it from Saks, and they really took care of me during all my fittings in the weeks leading up to the big day. I also loved my hair and makeup artists from MG Hair & Makeup. My Stylist Val was a gem! She kept me calm, and was spot on with my hair and makeup vision.

A real highlight on Sole East Resort’s part was the dinner. Definitely get the lobster rolls – big hit. The steak and fish were spot on, and all the veggies were so fresh, and doing it all family style was the best! Cindi, Dave and Sue at Sole East Resort were great. They really worked with our planner to help execute everything to perfection.

After the ceremony and cocktail hour, the rest of the night was a whirlwind of amazing dance floor moments, toasts, photo booth pics, and more dancing – our live band was awesome! We ended with an after party at the hotel bar, coupled with s’mores by the fire pit. Our wedding at Sole East Resort was at absolute dream. We could not have been happier with how the day turned out.

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Michelle and Mike’s wedding was amazing, which is not at all surprising, since Sole East Resort is the kind of place that just does weddings right. From the spring blooms bursting at every corner (think rhododendron, swaying ornamental grasses and red maples), to the hammocks, adirondack chairs and St. Tropez lounge beds, to the amazing amenities and food, you can literally just sit back and relax while their talented staff handles it ALL. Which means that sophisticated garden wedding you’ve always dreamed of? It’s right at your fingertips – and so is lounging by the pool. To start planning that laid-back meets elegant affair, contact Sole East Resort today at events@soleeast.com or 631.668.2105. And don’t forget to ask about their spring discounts. Your big day is going to be so, so awesome.

Photography: Jj Ignotz | Floral Design: James Abel Events | Dress: Reem Acra | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Catering : Sole East Resort | Hair & Makeup: MG Hair & Makeup | Venue: Sole East Resort | Tent: American Tent Company | James Abel : James Abel Events | Wedding Reception & Lodging: Sole East Resort

Going for a vibe of sexy sophistication? One of these see-through styles might just be the ticket to inspire your dress. THE dress. From sheer paneled necklines to off-the-shoulder sleeves to a leggy peek, these designer dresses are drop. dead. gorg. Let us know which one you’d wear in the comments!

Sophisticated, yet playful.

This stunner from Floravere gives the illusion of a strapless number with lace crawling elegantly up the neckline.

Ever so ethereal.

Musat Bridal wows with this fluffy, flowy number that reminds us of a gorgeous Tinkerbell dress.

Lovely Legs

Show of those lovely legs in a beauty like this Pronovias dress that wraps you in lace.

Leave it to Ines di Santo to craft a gown this gorgeous. A sheer back panel connects to buttons and wraps around to a front panel featuring a elegantly deep v-neck.

Lastly, this boho number features sheer see-through sleeves that hug the bride in beauty and pair perfectly with her loose curls and flower crown.

As soon as this bride rounded the corner on her father’s arm to walk down the aisle, a light rain started, but according to Dana Cubbage Weddings, it made for THE most romantic ceremony ever – and after taking a look at this gallery, we can certainly agree! Photo after photo of this classic Southern soiree planned by Ooh! Events has us grinning from ear to ear.

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From Dana Cubbage Weddings… “Two Golden Retrievers in running shoes.” That is what Chelsea and Bill are described as by their best friends. Always happy, always excited, always enthusiastic, and their wedding day photos are an absolute reflection of that! The way they light up around each other is just beautiful. Their smiles are contagious! It was pure joy to be there with them and document this incredible day for them. I’m truly so lucky to have such amazing clients.

We started their wedding day with a sweet first look. In true, enthusiastic Golden Retriever fashion, Chelsea started jumping up and down as she embraced Bill – it was so cute, I was just dying behind the camera, relishing in their joy. Before we knew it, Chelsea was walking down the aisle on the arm of her father, and as soon as they stepped out from under the porch, the rain started. They said their vows as light rain fell on them and their guests. It was the most romantic ceremony I’ve ever photographed because of the rain! As soon as their ceremony finished, the skies opened up and it POURED, but luckily everything else was happening inside the house and under the tent, so we were all good!

I loved documenting this beautiful celebration for Chelsea and Bill. It’s weddings like this and clients like these that make my job so special.

Photography: Dana Cubbage Weddings | Cinematography: Anchor Films | Event Planning: Ooh! EventHaus | Floral Design: Creech's Florist | Wedding Dress: Watters | Cake: Rhiannon Chandler | Bride's Shoes: Kate Spade | Catering: Hamby Catering | Hair + Makeup: Lashes And Lace Charleston | Band: Emerald Empire Band | Men's Attire: The Black Tux | Venue: The Governor Thomas Bennett House | Rentals: Ooh! EventHaus | Rentals: Snyder Event Rentals

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Emerald Empire Band

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This elegant wedding may be in the wilds of California but it has the beauty and feel of a stunning Tuscan garden party. Planned by Dandelion Events, with the prettiest palette of blooms by Aqua Floral Design, watch this alfresco affair unfold through the lens of Jeanni Dunagan and Scala Pictures. It’s proof you don’t need a passport to experience the magic of an Italian celebration.

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Soon after moving to Johannesburg, South Africa for her graduate studies, Taylor was introduced to Bonaventure by a mutual friend. The attraction was instant and their romance immediately ensued. After some time had passed, Bonaventure planned a surprise proposal in the States while Taylor was home visiting family. Unaware that Bonaventure had received his Visa, she was beyond surprised to see Bonaventure standing before her, ring in hand. The couple returned to South Africa and the wedding planning began.

With a color palette of olive green, terracotta, navy and gray, Taylor and Bonaventure’s wedding had the feel of an elegant Tuscan garden party. The florals were chosen to complement both the theme and the natural flora growing on the venue’s property. Upon arriving, guests were met by property escorts and custom signs to direct them to the ceremony area. On the way, they were given parasols to provide shield from the summer sun and a choice of welcome drinks to keep them cool.

Taylor arrived to the ceremony in a vintage convertible car and was escorted by her father to her groom. Taylor and Bonaventure exchanged their personally-written vows below a giant oak tree. As a nod to their African culture, the bride and groom participated in the spiritual tradition of ‘jumping the broom,’symbolizing the sweeping away past wrongs or removing evil spirits. After the ceremony, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception under Campovida’s Learning Arbor followed by an al fresco dinner and dancing beneath the stars.

From the groom… Falling in love with Taylor was amazing. It was like I found a part of my body that was missing. Everything in my life changed from the day I met her and I thank God for that day. I love everything about Taylor. She is all I ever wanted.

From the bride…What I love most about Bona is his fearlessness. If he wants something, he goes after it without worrying about failing. He just does and I love that about him because it inspires me.

I chose Campovida Winery because I love the outdoors. Bona and I both grew up in places that have beautiful nature all around, so I thought a garden wedding would suit both of us. Campovida is also special to me because I used to drive by it every day on my way home, only I never knew it was there! It’s like a secret garden tucked away from the world.

Photography: Jeanni Dunagan Photography | Videography: Scala Pictures | Wedding Planner: Leslie at Dandelion Events | Floral Design: Aqua Floral Design | Wedding Dress: Tony Ward | Cake: Sweet Expectations | Stationery: Bowerbird Atelier | Bride's Shoes: Sam Edelman | Bride's Shoes: Vince Camuto | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Fame And Partners | Catering: Elaine Bell Catering | Makeup Artist: Melissa Hibbert-Brumfield | Groom's Attire: The Black Tux | Transportation: Pure Luxury | Wedding Venue: Campovida | Bartender: Libations Unlimited | Rentals: Encore Events Rentals

If having your morning coffee is not only an essential part of your daily routine, but also a ritual that you and your partner cherish doing together, then you should definitely take advantage of building a registry to upgrade your coffee gadgets and supplies! From fancy machines that make Italian espresso and Cold Brew, to milk frothers, cute mugs and a Stumptown coffee subscription, these registry picks are sure to start your days and your lives together on the right track!

The Coffee-Loving Couple's Registry Guide

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The Coffee-Loving Couple's Registry Guide

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Style Me Pretty Contributor – Julia Hurwitz is a freelance writer and Marketing Manager based in New York City. Her interests include travel, global craft, healthy baking, entertaining and exploring the outdoors.

[style guide]

Almost 6 million of you follow Style Me Pretty on Pinterest, so it’s no secret it’s THE place to save all your wedding-related inspiration. So we take Pinterest’s 2018 Wedding Report very seriously around here! According to them, it’s back to basics for 2018 brides.

“Au naturale makeup and venues, and focusing on making meaningful memories with loved ones” is a key element this year, according to their search data. These are our favorite picks from their trend report.

Champagne dresses are rising in popularity.

Searches for messy updos spiked more than 100%!

Potted plants are going strong.

Minimal fig cakes are trending.

So are single stem proteas!

Skip the hangover and plan your ba-chill-orette party at a spa!

Honeymoon destination alert: Switzerland is the new go-to romantic spot in Europe.

Don’t forget to follow Style Me Pretty on Pinterest!

When Pantone announced that their color of the year was ultra violet, I was curious; how would this play out in weddings? But one look through this gorgeous gallery by Oliver Fly and any worries went out the window. From the bridesmaids’ dresses to the florals and decor, this stunning shade takes center stage, with only the beautiful Bride and her Groom garnering more attention. And rightly so, because this French chateau wedding they planned deserves a round of applause. It’s picture perfect to say the least – see it all right this way!

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From the Bride…

We first met in university close to a decade ago at a student event. I was a freshman and he was an upperclassman. Being from two different cultures on two different continents, we could not have been more different from each other. However, as we spent more time together throughout university and after, we realized that we had a lot more in common than we thought. We easily bonded over our love for travelling, good food and good wine. We had both learned how to speak French in our youth and also appreciated French food and culture.

When we were planning our wedding, we had a few unusual requirements. First was location: Our friends and families are strewn all over the globe. Regardless of where the wedding were to be, two thirds of our guests would be flying for a very long time. Thus we wanted an unforgettable wedding venue that is well-worth the journey for all of our guests. The location also had to be easily accessible and not far from a major international airport hub. Lastly, we wanted to accommodate all of our guests on site with a luxurious, 5 star experience. Le Domaine des Etangs checked all of our boxes. Located in the Charente region of France, close to where Cognac is from, it is surrounded by natural beauty, history and character. An 11th century castle that’s been recently restored and transformed into a luxury hotel with contemporary amenities and art was the perfect setting to share our special moment with our guests.

Our other requirement was food: We both love good food and wine and as such we wanted to share that passion with our guests at the wedding. Fabien Beaufour, who previously was chef at Eleven Madison Park in New York, understood how to deliver the best possible food for our wedding. His menu focused on celebrating local ingredients, including a salad where all the ingredients are from the vegetable garden at the Domaine, beef from the nearby Limoges region, and melons from Charente. The Domaine also makes a large variety of their own local cheeses, which we got to enjoy in between courses.

All of this combined created an absolutely stunning and unforgettable setting for our wedding. When we decided to look for a photographer to capture it, we wanted to make sure that he has both an eye for the little, but oh-so-important details as well as the aesthetic sense to capture such a fantastical setting. When I found Oliver I knew I had found a perfect combination of the two. He fell in love with the location as much as we had and went above and beyond capturing the perfect romantic shots, from scouting out the perfect spot for our first look to rowing a boat onto the lake and taking photos from there.

I was determined to not look for my wedding dress until we had found our dream venue. I wanted a wedding dress that was fit for the venue we chose. With a medieval Chateau in the French countryside as the backdrop of the wedding ceremony, I chose a Pronovias ball-gown dress with detailed floral embroidery on the bodice as an ode to the surrounding natural beauty. An intricate matching veil with an extensive train that would stand up to the occasion. Given such setting, black tie wasn’t optional.

I picked a color palette of white, blush pink and purple for an understated kind of elegance and romance to the occasion. The peonies and roses in my bouquet were chosen as a nod to the floral embroidery on my dress.

From Loli Events… ​​One of the best perks of being a wedding is planner is discovering incredible venues and as we all know, France is overflowing when it comes to spectacular gems. Le Domaine des Etangs is definitely one of them.

Janice and Sergei came all the way from California to find the perfect venue for their France destination wedding. They were looking for a beautiful place, which could accommodate all their guests but also offer an exquisite experience. By that, they sought: beautiful landscape, great food and amazing wines! Le Domaine des Etangs, a 5-Star Luxury Hotel checked all these boxes and this is how this fairytale wedding came to life.

Another fun part of the planning process was to find great local vendors. Kerrie Langfield did an amazing job pampering the bride and her bridal party while Lisa Gatenby created the perfect bouquets and compositions that perfectly matched the couple’s vision.

Beautifully captured by the talented Oliver Fly, the wedding vibe was about adding sophistication and simplicity to this natural environment. The bride went with some touches of purple and soft palette to create a timeless decoration.

Photography: Oliver Fly Photography | Event Planning: Loli Events | Floral Design: French Flower Style | Wedding Dress: Pronovias | Bride's Shoes: Tribut Ives Saint Laurent | Catering: Dyades by Fabien Beaufour | Hair + Make Up: Kerrie Langfield | Wedding Venue: Domaine des Etangs | Bride's Veil: Pronovias | Groom's Shoes: Calvin Klein | Groom's Tuxedo: Ermeneglildo Zegna | Processing Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Silk Ribbons: Orchidee De Soie | Stationery Design + Print: Union Street Papery | Wedding Band: Tiffany & Co. | Wedding Ring: Ingle & Rhode