Why bring in an alter when you can simply embellish a larger than life tree with a gorgeous array of blooms? That is just where we start this vineyard wedding overlooking the sea. It is layered with a stunning fall color palette and striking details crafted by Birds of a Feather Events, with florals by The Southern Table and imagery shot by Charla Storey. See the full celebration including one very cute pup in a tutu right here.

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Amanda and Daryl were married at Catalina View Gardens overlooking a vineyard and the ocean with beautiful views of Catalina Island in front of 50 of their closest friends and family. The ceremony space has a gorgeous tree and rather than bringing in an alter, we elected to utilize the tree instead and adorned it with hundreds of flowers in shades of pink, plum, and red.

After leaving the ceremony, guests headed to cocktail hour on the pavilion and grabbed a calligraphed Lucite escort card hanging by black silk ribbon from a tree at the entrance to the space. Guests enjoyed small bites in front of the floral adorned fireplace while the couple finished up photos with their families and their puppy. Shortly after, guests found their seats under the cafe lights and stars and enjoyed a dinner of street tacos and partook in made to order guacamole from a roving cart.

Reception tables were set with low and lush centerpieces of garden roses, ranunculus, dahlias, and peonies and were accented by fruit arrangements and silk table runners. Place settings consisted of matte black plates, gold flatware, vintage carnival glass, and a menu. Our palette was a mix of bright colors with some pops of black and purple to compliment the season. Guests danced into the evening and headed out with a Texas sized donut from LA staple, Randy’s Donuts at the end of the evening – a must stop for Amanda and Daryl as they leave LAX whenever they come to town.

Photographer: Charla Storey Photography | Wedding Planner: Birds Of A Feather Events | Florist: Max Owens Design | Cake: Sweet & Saucy Shop | Stationery: Bella Figura | Catering: Made By Meg | Hair and Makeup: Design Visage | Calligraphy: Harts And Quills | Entertainment: Vox DJs | Wedding Favors: Randy's Donuts | Ceremony and Reception: Catalina View Gardens | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Lounge and Bar Rentals: Found Rental Co. | Rentals: Classic Party Rents; | Wedding Designer: Birds Of A Feather Events

Keep the Valentine’s spirit going long after the holiday! Whether you’ve been married for years or just made things official last week, forget that expensive, tried-and-true dinner date night and focus on learning more about your significant other instead.

If you haven’t already, take Gary Chapman’s 5 Love Languages quiz with your significant other to discover your emotional communication preferences. Then, plan a date around your partner’s results. Do they value quality time? Send the kids to your parents’ house for a couple nights and plan a weekend getaway. Do they find acts of service more romantic? Clean and decorate the house for a staycation instead.

Take a stroll through a home furniture store such as Ikea or Crate & Barrel and talk about the kind of décor you like, for everything from silverware to coffee tables. If you already live together, take a trip to Home Depot or Lowe’s and brainstorm your next home project.

Shut off the TV and stow away your cell phones to spend an evening playing a two-person appropriate game—such as Scrabble, Yahtzee, or chess—with your partner. Worried that the competition will be too fierce to make it enjoyable? Try working together on a jigsaw puzzle instead!

Create a fort of pillows and blankets in your living room and have a classic movie marathon. Whether that means Casablanca and Breakfast at Tiffany’s or The Princess Bride and The Breakfast Club is up for interpretation, but don’t forget the popcorn and movie theater candy!

Take the morning to go on a hike or a walk around the neighborhood together. There’s always room for a little more gratitude in every relationship, and being active outside will surely make you appreciate the life you have together.

Put on some Michael Bublé, pop open a bottle of champagne, and attempt a new, fancy recipe together. Even if it goes terribly wrong, you’ll create incredible memories and have a story to share about the time you epically failed at cooking beef Wellington and ended up ordering Chinese takeout.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Morgan Chamberlain is a freelance writer and social media consultant for wedding vendors in New England. She believes weddings are all about sentimental details, cohesive décor, and a well-chosen playlist to keep the party going!

These two weddings are proving that destination celebrations are a definite must if you love soaking in the sun, playing on the beach and tossing back a cocktail or two. Because if you love vacationing with your closest friends and family, plus a breathtaking seaside backdrop, they are most definitely the “nudge” you need if you’re waffling on whether to take your “I do’s” to paradise.

Sarah and Matthew jetted off to Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa to celebrate their nuptials with 65 of their nearest and dearest and the results were, well… awesome. That’s because this adults-only resort is one of the coolest you’ll ever have the privilege to visit, complete with infinity pools, water sports, deep sea fishing, VIP Butler service for Preferred guests and daily BBQs on the beach… just to name a few. Sarah and Matthew’s guests danced the night away after a beautiful seaside ceremony, and we’re guessing they loved their cozy rooms, relaxing spa services and all of the gourmet dining options. Because you can’t vacay in paradise without some amazing food.

Sheryl and Hakim have a storybook love story (they met and knew they were meant to be within a day), so it was only fitting that they made their way to paradise to tie the knot. Their resort of choice? Dreams Huatulco Resort & Spa, a fairytale-esque hotel that sits smack-dab in the middle of a lush jungle. A jungle, you guys… not to mention the breathtaking mountains and picturesque coral reefs that make for one seriously gorgeous stay. We love the long list of activities, six swimming pools and amazing rooms that are perfect for families. (Yes, Dreams Huatulco is kid-friendly.) And we’re just a bit obsessed with the proximity to waterfalls and lagoons. Sheryl and Hakim’s friends + family had it made.

Ready to take the destination plunge and head to paradise to make it all official? Contact Dreams Resorts & Spas and Secrets Resorts & Spas to get planning. We guarantee you’ll love the experience, and you can’t top their awesome locations across the globe for both Dreams and Secrets, talented wedding pros that make everything so, so easy and luxury experience with 24-hour room + concierge service. And be sure to check out more of these gorgeous days here and here to get inspired for your own nuptials. We are sure they will be awesome.

America’s favorite funny gal, Amy Schumer, married chef Chris Fischer in a surprise ceremony Tuesday, February 13 in Malibu. The comedienne announced the marriage with a handful of happy photos on Instagram. Hover over and scroll right to see all the happy snaps below!

A post shared by @amyschumer on Feb 15, 2018 at 8:53am PST

Amy and Chris literally just confirmed they were dating a few days ago so the wedding comes as a complete surprise to her many fans! The sunset ceremony took place in Malibu during the most romantic week of the year. The Trainwreck star donned the stunning Monique Lhuillier Severine Chantilly lace and tulle ballgown that retails for $5,490, while her groom looked dashing in a simple, black suit.

A post shared by @amyschumer on Feb 15, 2018 at 10:53am PST

Is that Jennifer Lawrence we spot as a bridesmaid?!

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Congratulations to the talented, happy couple!

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You’ve probably envisioned it: the love of your life proposing in the most perfect way that reflects your relationship, and then the warming thought of your wedding and of all of your closest friends surrounding and supporting you on your big day. But what if you have a few besties who aren’t besties with each other?

With your wedding being such an important event in your life, most of your friends will recognize that and will be of assistance in the planning process. For those bridesmaids who are little harder to please, follow these steps for approaching a potentially wrecking situation.

Host A Meet and Greet or a Bridesmaid Brunch
If possible, host a pre-planning festivity meet and greet for your bridesmaids to mingle and get to know each other. Even if your bridesmaids already know each other, it is still a fun way to get everyone warmed up to each other before the planning starts!

Empower Each Bridesmaid to Plan an Activity
Most activities during the wedding week/weekend are fun-filled events and can really benefit your maids in the bonding process. By empowering your maids to plan an event of their own, you are making them feel fully part of the process as well as allowing them to plan an activity that reflects your friendship. It is really fun to see what each person comes up with and this will keep any feelings from getting hurt from feeling left out of the process.

Assign a Friend or Family Member to Peacemaker Duties
Keep in mind this doesn’t have to necessarily be your maid of honor, or even any or your bridesmaids.
If your maids are just not getting along with each other, it is okay to ask for help from a friend or a family member to diffuse the situation. This outside perspective may help tremendously in bringing everyone together to happily support you in the days leading up to your wedding day!

If an outside source can’t diffuse the situation, have a sit down with your friend who is upset. Chances are, there is a deeper issue at play and getting to the bottom of that issue may remedy the overall disruptions. Remember, you chose your bridesmaids for a specific reason and have different relationships with each of them. Take this moment to be a good listener to understand the issue, fix it, and get back to the fun of your week.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Erica Chambers is a freelance writer and blogger at Styles by the C. After living in New York City, she has made her permanent residence along the white sandy beaches of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida with her new husband and fur child, Maxwell. When she isn’t working, you’ll find her exploring local brunch spots or designing a nursery for her and her husband’s first child, Leo.

We all know that you can’t have an amazing wedding without an amazing team of vendors, but we also know that finding that oh-so-awesome dream team takes a lot of work and research. Unless, you make plans to attend the Outer Banks Meet + Greet at Sanderling Resort on Sunday, March 10th from 5 – 9 pm. It’s your chance to mix and mingle with the best in the biz, plus find those wedding pros that will turn your destination wedding on the Outer Banks into the celebration you’ve always wanted.

Duck, North Carolina is one of those vacay spots you never want to leave and Sanderling Resort sits right smack-dab in the center of all of the action. With gorgeous views, luxe accommodations and a talented staff that knows a thing or two about dream weddings, you can count on that celebration of the century to happen. Now add in a meet + greet with talented OBX Wedding Professionals, hors d’oeuvres, wine tastings, a reception style dinner and dessert samplings and it’s not just an evening planning your big day… it’s a lot of fun, too. You can even dabble in Sassy S’mores at the Firepits at the Event House. (Yum.)

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Trust us on this one, you guys – the Outer Banks Meet + Greet at Sanderling Resort is one of those events you seriously can’t miss. Mark those calendars for March 10th from 5-9 pm, then visit Sanderling Resort to purchase tickets, book rooms and learn more about getting those engagement pictures taken. You’re going to have a blast.

Stu and Emily’s love story is giving us ALL the feels today. A super-random camping trip (where the mutual friends who were supposed to go with them bailed) led to the mountaintop I dos we get to witness on screen today, at the same mountain, no less. Thankfully that mountain was Northstar California and the gorgeous Zephyr Lodge serving as their reception space—the perfect spot for this adventurous duo. Like we said, all the feels! Can you even with this view?

First and foremost, Stu and Emily wanted their families and friends to experience the place they both loved so much, and for good reason. With a relaxed and natural vibe in mind, Zephyr Lodge is a winning combo of rustic elegance and casual romance, overlooking an outdoor setting with to-die-for views. Can we also talk about the fields of wildflowers and how sweet those portraits turned out? Sooo dreamy!

These sweeties made sure to layer on the personal touches, too. One of our favorite details? They were married by their friend Eric who introduced them, and was one of the friends who bailed on their first trip up to Truckee together. Guess he was forgiven (or thanked?)!

Favorite highlights from that day were Stu’s green suit, double rainbows, and Ikeda’s pies in lieu of wedding cake! Northstar’s iconic Zephyr Lodge (with floor-to-ceiling views of the Sierra Nevada range) provided a gorgeous backdrop for all of the festivities.

Emily and Stu didn’t stop there. This adventuresome couple did a 16-day backpacking trip from Donner Pass to Yosemite Valley for their honeymoon (and only got hailed on once). 

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Ready to plan your own dream mountaintop wedding? Get in touch with the Zephyr Lodge today to begin your own adventure. From intimate and cozy to gorgeously grand, your guests will be in awe of the breathtaking scenery, making your fete one to remember for years to come!

Photography: The Goodness | Floral Design : Love and Lupines | Venue: Northstar California, Zephyr Lodge | Wedding Venue: Northstar Zephyr Lodge | Day of Coordination: Weddings by Shannon | Dessert: Ikeda's Pies | Music: Music in Tahoe

Valentine’s Day proposals are some of our faves and if you’re starting your February 15th off with a brand new sparkler on your ring finger, congrats are definitely in order. Now it’s time to get planning, and if you’ve been dreaming of a Mexican celebration since before your engagement (we won’t tell), we’ve got you covered with a meet ‘n’ greet with the talented team that will make it all happen – Del Cabo Weddings.

Awesome weddings always begin with the right vendor team, especially when it comes to destination celebrations. I mean, planning your “I do’s” in paradise can be a little tricky, so choosing a team of planners that knows it all is, well… essential. We love Del Cabo Weddings for their experience (over 30 years, you guys), their long list of fab vendors and their steadfast relationships with all of the gorgeous venues in Cabo San Lucas and San Jose Del Cabo. Yep, they can do it all – from planning your rehearsal dinner to designing a breathtaking, but totally unique wedding to all of those little details you didn’t even know you had to handle. (And, trust us… there’s a lot of them.)

We all know that Valentine’s Day proposals are the epitome of romance, so if you’re newly engaged as of today, you’ll need to host a celebration that can match your engagement story. One of the reasons we adore Del Cabo Weddings so much is their ability to really get to know each of their clients, even from far-off locales. (They even have a fun quiz to get the process started.) The time they take to really invest in you shines through each and every wedding they plan – cookie-cutter weddings are nowhere to be found.

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Dreamy weddings in Mexico with a nice vacay on the side are basically our jam, and Del Cabo Weddings are our go-to for planning. From their decor warehouse to a talented staff of techies and even landscapers (!), they’ll make certain your Big Day is awesome. Which means less stress for you and more fun to be had. Check out even more of this gorgeous photo shoot captured by Steve Steinhardt (with talented actors Shelby Tate Major and Enrique Rodriguez!) here, then connect with Del Cabo Weddings today to get planning asap!

Photography: Steve Steinhardt Photography | Videography: Land's End Film | Event Planning: Del Cabo Weddings | Florist: Mar | Actors: Shelby Tate Major and Enrique Rodriguez | Decor: Del Cabo Weddings | Resort: Cloisters | Wardrobe: The Shoppes at Palmilla

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This wedding might just have it all: gorgeous gown, a beautiful combination of cultures, friends and family and plenty of sweet emotional moments galore. From the littlest of details (this Brides’ hair accessory) to the whole wonderful celebration, NST Pictures captured it all and we’re swept up in all these feel good vibes! Enjoy!

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From NST Pictures… It seems like it was always meant to be with Mary and Steve. After meeting at 13, they became immediate best friends although eventually drifting apart in college. It wasn’t until a reunion among high school friends in 2009 that they bumped into each other again and rekindled their friendship, with Steve finally confessing that he had feelings for Mary ever since they met. Five years of dating led to a beautifully designed wedding at Battello with elements of both Korean and Filipino traditions tastefully blended into their modern-day celebration.

Photography: BlueSpark Photography | Cinematography: NST Pictures | Floral Design: Stems Brooklyn | Ceremony Venue: St. Mary's Church | Reception Venue: Battello | Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Adrianna Papell | Entertainment: LJ Productions | Traditional Garments: Bidulki Judan Inc.

We just found THE wedding every little girl dreams of. Captured by the incredibly talented Greg Finck and conceptualized by the fabulous Honey & Cinnamon Italian Wedding Planner, this affair in the Tuscan hills is all kinds of pretty. From the raw edged paper goods by Nice Plume to the soft florals by Isa Events, the details are the epitome of romance. See it all here, and when you inevitably want more, watch the film by Marco Abba.

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“This wedding is what I am use to define as a minimal chic event”, this is how Federica from Honey and Cinnamon Italian Wedding Planner describes the celebration of Charles and Alice in one of the most stunning scenes of the Tuscan countryside.

Alice and Charles had flown all the way from New York City to get married on the Tuscan hills. Villa Origo, which is part of the huge estate of La Foce, is so stunning and impressive, immersed in a marvelous Italian garden famous worldwide. Alice and Charles chose it for its beauty and for the majestic surrounding landscapes.

They were a very punctual and precise couple during the overall planning and styling process, but Alice was the creative mind between the two of them, very picky but at the same time so tasteful in every choice they made. “Alice is such an elegant woman, very determined, in love with all that is simple but refined, and the first styling concept that came to my mind was minimal chic, although in an ancient and impressive context like the one of La Foce”.

Their wedding was photographed by the talented Greg Finck who enhanced every single moment with his amazing touch. Delicate shades of blush with touches of grey were the basic palette of this amazing celebration, the pink in the magical flower arrangements by ISA Events and the bridesmaids’ dresses and ribbons from Silk and Willow, the grey in the groom’s and groomsmen’s suits, the invitation suite, and the paper goods created by Nice Plume Calligraphy.

The ceremony took place in the majestic Italian garden, and the beautiful sculpture situated at the end of it was decorated with drapes and floral arrangements which gave the overall set a refined look. It was such en emotional celebration officiated by a mutual friend of the couple’s, with a radiant bride and a touched groom so thrilled to stand in front of the love of his life – finally his wife. The weather was so beautiful and warm, and the dining area was set up in front of the villa, a marvelous area where the villa’s outdoor walls were the perfect backdrop for this merry and touching event.

Photography: Greg Finck Photography | Cinematography: Marco Abbatangelo | Floral Design: ISA Events | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Vow To Be Chic | Catering: Guidi Lenci | Hair + Makeup: Lara Navarrini | Lighting: Wedding Music And Lights | String Quartet: Kaleydo | Venue: La Foce | Event Planning, Concept, Design: Federica Beni | Paper Goods: Nice Plume | Ring Box: The Mrs Box | Silk Ribbons: Silk and Willow

Say hello to five dresses that push the limits. Dresses that give you the confidence to challenge the classic, yet still feel 100% timeless. Would you don one of these beauties on your Big Day? I’m putting this first Alexandra Grecco number on hold for my someday vow renewal. Let us know which one you would dare to wear in the comments!

Timeless in a Two-Piece

There was a time that we thought two-pieces might be a trend, but it seems these beauties are here to stay for a while. A timeless style like this one from Alexandra Grecco makes a sweet statement. Head here to see the back of the dress!

Pretty in Petals

Fresh off the runway, this floral-adorned number from Marchesa will take you from basic to blooming bride. Would you don this pretty petaled piece?

Babe in Black

You don’t have to be an edgy bride to rock black. Black gowns add a sophisticated and elegant vibe when done right—like this Elias Gurrola dress.

Take the Plunge

Another Marchesa number pushing the limits with a deep plunging v neck. Would you make a statement in this runway-worthy dress?

Rock a Romper

The romper trend is on the rise and we’re kind of loving it. This design by Samuelle is sweet, yet playful. Would you show off a little leg?

As a bride-to-be, finding your dream wedding dress can be one of the most exciting aspects of the wedding planning process. From gathering your girls for a day of glam, bubbles, and a bridal fashion show with no one other than you as the model, the day could not be more fun! But what if you live in a small town that’s miles, or even hours, away from a bridal boutique or even a chain store?

Fear not, because there are a few ways to get creative with the dress-finding process.

Find Online Companies Who Fill This Need
A fun new retail trend, which plays off of the above tip of trying dresses on at home – but with a twist, is trying on multiple samples at home through participating retailer’s programs! Companies such as Floravere and BHLDN offer to send you as many sample styles as you wish for free with any purchase. By adding all of your favorite dresses to your cart online, it is essentially the same as thumbing through gowns in a boutique.

Once your box of dresses arrives, you and your gals can plan the day around playing with different dresses in the comfort of your own home! Once you find “the one,” send the samples back to the retailer and customize your favorite gown. Who wouldn’t love a custom try-on session in your own home? Pretty cool, right?

Order and Try On at Home
Utilize larger retailer’s free shipping and free returns online policy. Retailers such as David’s Bridal and Nordstrom’s Wedding Suite all offer this to their customers, so grab your girls and start online shopping! You can start small by ordering a single dress you’ve had your eye on, or order 2-3 dresses to get you started.

Having at least this many options (ideally all of the different shapes that match your ideal gown) will aid you in narrowing down a silhouette. Find your dream dress online then take it to a local seamstress if alterations are needed.

Make a Day Out of It
Make sure you’re prepared with heels, undergarments and even jewelry you might want to wear to help you get a better idea of what the dress could look like. If your mom and friends are in the same town as you, make a day of it, just like you would a regular dress shopping trip. Imagine a day filled with mimosas and pastries at home, trying on dresses and dreaming about your wedding day with your favorite people. Sounds like a fancy-filled day perfect to kick off the rest of the planning process!

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Erica Chambers is a freelance writer and blogger at Styles by the C. After living in New York City, she has made her permanent residence along the white sandy beaches of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida with her new husband and fur child, Maxwell. When she isn’t working, you’ll find her exploring local brunch spots or designing a nursery for her and her husband’s first child, Leo.

This is one of those weddings that will never, ever go out of style with its clean lines and classic pink, white, and blue color palette. Throw in some Southern charm courtesy of Pure Luxe Bride, beautiful photos captured by Dana Cubbage Weddings, and a heartfelt film by Dock House Digital, and you’ll keep coming back to this fête time and again.

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From Dana Cubbage Weddings… Stephanie is one of those brides whose joy is just contagious. Her squeals of joy throughout the day were a fabulous reminder of just how lucky I am to be a part of my clients’ wedding days, and when I get to work with my favorite #dreamteam vendors, it just takes things to another level! Stephanie and Brett’s wedding was one for the books, and I’m so thankful that I was able to capture every sweet moment for them and their families. Stephanie and Brett shared an amazing first look and spent some quiet time together before meeting up with their bridal party for group photos at Middleton Place. They recited personal vows to each other in a beautiful, heartfelt ceremony under the Oaks in the Octagonal Garden before recessing up the aisle as husband and wife. After a few more photos post-ceremony, they joined their guests at cocktail hour before sharing their first dance under the stars at the Pavilion. The dance floor was packed all night thanks to Stephen Darby, and man, they were a dancing crew! At the end of the night, Stephanie and Brett exited through a tunnel of sparklers.

Photography: Dana Cubbage Weddings | Cinematography: Dock House Digital | Event Planning: Pure Luxe Bride | Floral Design: Wildflowers Inc. | Wedding Dress: Mori Lee | Cake: Sablee | Bride's Shoes: Nina | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Bill Levkoff | Hair + Makeup: Paper Dolls | Lighting: Innovative Event Solutions | DJ: Stephen Darby | Men's Attire: Calvin Klein | Venue: Middleton Place Plantation | Bride's Jewelry: Nadri | Rentals: Eventworks

We can’t think of a better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day then with this pink hued number. Both bohemian and loaded with blushing hues, it will make you fall hard for this romantic color palette designed by Luna Wild Design, along with florals by Layered Vintage. Pink stripes look gorgeous set against the Moroccan infused backdrop of Korakia Pensione and Paige Jones’ images are the proof.

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From the bride…We met in the summer, so we are going for a warm dreamy romance that conveyed the carefree spontaneity of falling in love. We also wanted a smaller venue where we could rent out the entire property to make our wedding not just a celebration of our love, but also where our community could connect easily. We knew the very moment we stepped on the property at Korakia Pensione the venue was perfect for us – we so easily got lost in the dreamy romantic vignettes on the property. 

The venue already has a lot going on so we wanted bright whimsical bursts of color with an undone casual style, sort of something we could relax into with our tribe.

Rather than traditional bridesmaid bouquets, our planners and florist came up with the floral lanterns which conveyed this carefree romance that we could have only dreamed of, along with a floral teepee for our cake! During our ceremony we had a part where we gave out candy to our guests so they could help take part in the sweetness of our love. Also for our rehearsal dinner we did bowling instead of a sit-down dinner to set a fun playful vibe for the weekend.

Definitely for us the pinnacle of our wedding was our vows to each other. We are both pretty private people, so we wanted the opportunity to share and give definition to our community about ourselves and our relationship. 

I tried on 74 dresses, then at the 75th dress I just knew that I had found “the one” – I purchased it that very moment without even asking for anyone else’s opinion. We also had a little ice cream sandwich cart that our guests couldn’t stop talking about! 

There is so much going on the few days before the wedding, with last minute details and family & friends to attend to, that I think it’s sometimes hard for couples to feel close amidst all the festivities. My husband and I set aside a fixed time every day, 2-3 days before the wedding, to make sure we were staying connected, where we could talk through any fears, expectations, or anything that was going on. That really helped to make sure that even through all the of the business, we were on the same page and felt connected to our love.

Photography: Paige Jones | Event Design: Luna Wild Design | Planner: Sitting In A Tree Events | florals: Layered Vintage | catering: MIHO | makeup: 10.11 Makeup | dj: Dart Collective | band: Django Foxtrot | hotel: Korakia Pensione | Rentals: Hostess Haven | bar: Pharmacie | rentals: Planks And Patina | rentals: Signature Party Rentals | video: Austin Hendrix Productions

There are shoes, and then there is the newest collection from Bella Belle – the Euphoria Shoe Collection. The difference? Other than its ability to completely stop you in your tracks (seriously), this collection is alllll about the feminine details. From the soft textures to the sexy silhouettes to the floral embroidery and perfect pops of sequins, making a wedding day statement has never been easier. And guess what? We’re giving away two gift certificates.

Nothing says “sophisticated bride” quite like a gorgeous heel, and Bella Belle’s new Euphoria Show Collection most certainly fit the bill. These stunning creations are perfect for those of you who are a little bit classic and a little bit fashion-forward with everything from leg-defining heels to chic booties to comfy flats. What’s even more amazing? Getting to peruse these lovelies in breathtaking images captured by Laura Gordon, because what’s more “euphoric” than a fab photo shoot designed by Joy Proctor with fashion styling by Gabrielle Hurwitz? Umm… absolutely nothing.

Bella Belle is leading the way when it comes to redefining bridal shoes, and it’s never been more clear than with the 2018 Joy Proctor for Bella Belle Collection. With its Old World elegant style and modern sensibility, each of the three designs in this gorgeous lineup are offering up a fresh take on bridal wear. The Orchid has a gold heel, y’all. A. Gold. Heel. Not to mention the seriously sexy Peony bootie and the Lavender flat with its chic bow. Stunning.

Your wedding day deserves a little something special, but so does every other day of the week. Thankfully, Bella Belle launched an evening wear line that is just as awesome as their bridal styles. Think all of the same feminine details we love about the bridal line with hues ranging from nude to sparkly gold to sweet blush and black. These are more than perfect for every wedding event leading up to the big day, from your bachelorette party to your rehearsal dinner to that engagement bash.

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Falling in love with Bella Belle’s breathtaking shoes is easy – and so is perusing this beautiful photo shoot. To see more stunning images, click here, then visit Bella Belle to get your shopping on. Oh, and don’t forget to enter the giveaway below, because, well… it’s awesome. (For official rules, click here.) Good luck, loves.

Photography: Laura Gordon Photography | Cinematography: Josh Gooden Cinematography | Design + Styling: Joy Proctor Design | Floral Design: Tulipina - Kiana Underwood | Wedding Dress: Liz Martinez (by Kinsley James) | Wedding Dress: Lee Grebenau | Wedding Dress: Kleinfeld Bridal | Shoes: Bella Belle | Engagement Ring: Trumpet & Horn | Engagement Ring: J. Birnbach Jewelry | Makeup: Niko Beaute | Hair: VIvian Hu | Calligraphy: Written Word Calligraphy | Venue: Jardin De Buis | Accessories: Enchanted Atelier by Liv Hart | Accessories: Luna Bea | Accessories: jennifer behr | Additional Flat Lay Styling: Mallory Joyce | Additional Flat-Lay Styling: Mallory Joyce | Bridal Boutique: Spina Bride | Fashion Styling: Gabrielle Hurwitz | Flower: Florabundance | Model: Eydis Evensen of Silent Models NY | Ring Boxes: The Mrs Box | Styling board: Simply Rooted Calligraphy | Styling board: Heirloom Bindery | Veil: Daphne Newman Design

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Your wedding photographer is the storyteller of your big day. So in order to tell the story of your dreams, you’ll need to do more than just book a photographer — you need to communicate with them, too!

With so many talented vendors across the industry, choosing the right photographer is more about finding someone to collaborate with that can bring your vision to life. With just three more checkmarks on your to-do list, you can get that dreamy set of wedding prints after saying, “I do.”

Ask for the shots you want, including those intimate candids
Have an honest conversation about both how you envision your big day and what photos you hope to have. If you want lots of documentary-style candid shots, say that. If you want only posed shots, say that too. If you and a particular photographer have different styles, it’s okay to wait until you find a great match. You only get one chance to capture these moments. Make your voice heard and leave the rest up to the pros. After all, their entire career is about capturing your joy on that special day.

Share your style and set pricing expectations
Every photographer has their own style of capturing events, as well as editing galleries. Ask to look over their full portfolio from previous weddings. Find out what style a photographer prefers. There are no right or wrong answers. You’re only looking for a good match for your big day. Also, ask about color prints versus black and white. Some photographers charge more for a certain type of print and you’ll want to know up front what to expect financially.

Make time to create your wedding album
As soon as you know your wedding date and book your photographer, mark a day on the calendar to create your album together. Then stick to it. The wedding album is often the most forgotten piece of wedding memorabilia. The hustle and bustle of planning lead up to an unforgettable ceremony and celebration that your photographer can’t wait to capture. But afterward, life moves fast and follow-up meetings are forgotten. Some photographers may include scheduling a date for this in their packaging. Either way, your wedding album is a living memory you won’t want to forget. Be sure to schedule time for that before the big day so all you have to do is choose your favorite snaps.

Let’s be real. As amazing as wedding photographers are, they can’t read your mind. No matter what, you’ll get a stunning set of stills after the party’s over. Just make sure you share your vision and plan ahead to get the wedding photos of your dreams.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Katy Palmer is a casting producer and creative consultant in Denver by way of Los Angeles. When she isn’t working, you can find her indulging in the latest indie films, enjoying the Denver comedy scene and supporting other women in media. Connect with her on Instagram @bykatypalmer.

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Petit Bouquet

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I’m all for going out and doing something special for Valentine’s Day but you know what the best part is usually? Coming back home. Even if you happen to be in the paradise (aka Paris) and have the opportunity to have an absolutely beautiful photo op by the Eiffel Tower like this couple here, it’s still just as magical, if not more, to come home and toast to each other in the comfort of your Parisian apartment. And it couldn’t look at chicer amid the comforts of home than in these pics by Greg Finck. Complete w champagne and macarons, this gallery is giving us all sorts of new Valentine-style dreams for next year.

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From Greg Finck… Cici and Matt both live in Singapore and had come all the way to France to celebrate their wedding anniversary. For the shoot, we organized a session in the pure Parisian quintessence. We started the session with Cici and Matt cozying up on the sofa of their Parisian apartment, and sipping some of the finest Champagne while eating macarons. Then, we went for a stroll in the streets of the 7th district, sat on a terrace in a cafe, and ended below the Eiffel Tower with the beautiful Parisian backlight.

Photography: Greg Finck Photography | Shoes: Jimmy Choo

If you needed proof that a modern wedding could be done (and done beautifully) in a rustic space, here it is. Detailed I Do’s conceptualized this bold and sophisticated design with its bright colors, sleek silhouettes, and pops of pattern yet seamlessly tied it in with the rustic, romantic setting that is Foxhall Resort for a wedding editorial captured by Diana Lupu Photography that’s truly one of a kind.

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From Detailed I Do’s… We are so delighted to share this Southern, minimalist shoot that was captured at Fox Hall Resort with an awe-inspiring vendor team who brought our bright and bold design to life. We felt so inspired by the stately historic stables on the venue’s property. We wanted to show couples who have been pining to do a rustic wedding that they can put a modern twist on that and really wow their guests while also creating a more sophisticated affect. We incorporated pops of fuchsia pink and bright red, greenery climbing the shiplap walls, and a handwoven striped linen for a dramatic but playful look. Rachel and Patrick, our sweet couple, also influenced our design with their strong features, compelling chemistry, and true adoration for one another.

Photography: Diana Lupu | Event Planning + Design: Detailed I Do's | Floral Design: Victory Blooms | Wedding Dress: Houghton Bride | Cake: Gingerspice Bakery | Stationery: Tiger Lily Invitations | Shoes: Kate Spade | Hair + Makeup: Margaret Snider | Groom's Attire: The Black Tux | Venue: Foxhall Resort And Sporting Club | Bridal Boutique: The Sentimentalist | Earrings, Comb: Hushed Commotion | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Model: Rachel Hegner from Salt Model & Talent | Model: Rachel Hegner from Salt Model & Talent | Rentals: Presentime Rentals | Veil: Jaclyn Jordan New York | Welcome Gift: From Sir With Love

From 20 to 55 and every age in between, no matter how old you are when you get married, there will always be pros and cons. My husband and I got married at 22 in an age where people are waiting longer and longer to get married. Both paths are great but bring their own opportunities for learning, growth, and challenges.

By the time we said, “I do” we had been together for seven years. We experienced the awkward teenage years, and the growing pains of adjusting from naive high school students to naive college graduates. We held hands through the ups and downs of applying for jobs, launching our careers, finding who we really were and living together. But here’s why getting married at 22 was the best decision for us.

The Simple Life
Life as a recent college graduate is simple. You own a car, you pay rent, you do whatever you want after 5 p.m., and you try to keep your basil plants alive. The older you get, the more complex life can seem to be. You own more things, you’re more established in society and you have greater responsibilities. At 22, you’re just diving into that aspect of life and it was fun to experience with my other half as newlyweds.

No Money No Problem
No matter when you get married, you’re tight on money after the wedding. We spent a substantial amount of money on our wedding but once it was over, we didn’t notice a huge adjustment in our spending habits because we were still living like broke college students. We weren’t 30-year-olds who had experienced years of selfish saving and spending only to be startled by the newlywed budget. Broke college student budget translates pretty easily to newlywed budget.

Baby Steps
At 22, we watched our young adult life unfold together. We experienced job interviews, new careers, waving goodbye to our broke college student budget, and establishing our habits, activities, and hobbies as a married couple. When you’re older, you have a system for how you fold the towels, you have a spending habit, you buy the same groceries every Sunday, and you have a weekly happy hour night with friends. That’s all great but once you get married, those aspects to your personal life have to adjust. It can be a confusing time because before you were able to do whatever you wanted whenever you wanted and now you have to compromise with your spouse. At 22, you don’t have those habits and set lifestyle because you’re new to the world as a young adult.

Young or old, there are pros and cons to each life stage you decide to get married in. I wouldn’t change a thing about my story and our experience, but I’m grateful for the lessons it’s taught me along the way.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Kylie Thompson is a freelance writer, blogger and marketing professional from Grand Rapids Michigan, where she resides with her husband. When she isn’t working, you will find her exploring Grand Rapids’ newest culinary establishments with her husband, or traveling up and down Lake Michigan’s coast.

I’m obsessively in love with this venue (shout out to the Fairmont Banff Springs) and I get downright giddy whenever a wedding there comes across my desk… but when it’s Justine Milton’s work, well, my day is made. Curious what all my raving is about? Look no further than this navy and blush beauty before us. Justine’s pics shine and Memory Lane Videography’s film brings it all to life. So good, right!?

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/236360639 600 338]

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From the Bride… Being a girl from San Diego and a guy from Portland living in Las Vegas, we wanted a unique destination wedding that our family and friends would be excited about! We love skiing in Banff and the beauty of the mountains, so we thought it’d be the perfect place! We chose navy for the guys and blush for the girls because we knew it’d look beautiful for the outdoor ceremony with the greenery and mountains! Our main focus on decor was the flowers! With a room as beautiful as mount Stephan Hall, that’s really all you needed. Our wedding day turned out to be more amazing then we could have ever imagined, thanks to help from all our incredible vendors! The best part was saying I do to the love of my life in front of all our family and friends!

Photography: Justine Milton Photography | Videography: Memory Lane Videography | Floral Design: Flower Artistry | Wedding Dress: Evelyn Bridal | Hair: Justin Rizzuto | Venue: Fairmont Banff Springs | Bridal Boutique: Couture Bride

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Justine Milton Photography

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