This wedding planned by The Purple Orchid took place at a working lavender and flower farm, situated on the banks of a river in Maine. Yes it is as adorable and perfect as it sounds, and we have the photos by Christine Bernales to prove it! Get ready for all the pretty.

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From  the bride and groom… After stalking the weather apps for two weeks straight, we ended up with blue skies and a beautiful July day. We worked with some amazing vendors! We were obsessed with all the details – from the flowers to the specialty cocktails to the tablescapes and everything in between. A special day was made even more special by all the people who paid such great attention to executing the details. We were able to sneak away from the reception to just look at how it all unfolded and felt really lucky. It was a heck of a party, people knew to bring their dancing shoes. Now that the chaos is over, we are looking forward to life together and will always look back fondly on our amazing wedding day!

Photography: Christina Bernales | Event Planning: The Purple Orchid Planning | Floral Design: Michelle Peele | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Cake: Blackbird Doughnuts | Catering: Trillium Caterers | Hair + Makeup: Bei Capelli Salon | DJ: Dolaya Heard | Transportation: Country Coach Charters | Wedding Venue: Marianmade Farm | Rentals: One Stop Event Rentals

Opposites sure do attract. Case in point, this darling duo and their magical mountain wedding. The Bride, a fan of pink and sparkles, met her match in her Groom, lover of all things outdoor. They created a wedding (with help from Kelly Karli Weddings and Events) that showcased both sides, a rustic elegant outdoor celebration complete with stunning views, gorgeous florals by Siloh Floral and beyond beautiful invitations thanks to The Delicate Pen. Laura Murray and Sherry Innis captured it all as further proof that a mix-match of aesthetics is always a good idea.

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From The Delicate Pen… Amanda had always dreamed of her wedding being elegant, with effusive flowers and loads of pink and sparkles, but Cody, her husband to be, was the complete opposite, loving hunting and being outdoors. They both were in agreement on an outdoor wedding, however! Cody and Amanda were high school sweethearts and dated all through college, as well. They got married in Colorado, because Amanda had vacationed there as a child, and it is where Amanda went to college and where the couple got engaged. They both love to ski and hike and Beaver Creek became their getaway and sanctuary.

They chose a color palette of blush pink, sage green, champagne, beige and cream. All of Amanda’s directives to the stationer, the invitation designer and calligrapher, florist and event planner were to create a feel of romance, lightness, elegance, intimacy and softness. Amanda had to have her pink blush flowers, but the florist made boutonnieres of simple greenery, which was more Cody’s style.

Amanda fell in love with one of the first wedding dresses she tried on, made her invitation selection immediately, when she saw the hand lettered and hand painted invitations with blush flowers that she selected, and she only did one cake tasting before deciding on her cake.

Amanda’s favorite detail was the guest escort cards calligraphed and hand painted by The Delicate Pen, which were mounted on tall panels covered in flowered wall paper. She also loved the flowers by Siloh. She wanted flowers to be everywhere. She also wanted every detail of her wedding to be hand lettered, including professional calligraphy for every envelope mailed and each place card the day of the wedding.

Amanda’s sister made many DIY items for the wedding, including the chalk board signs with the Corinthians bible verse, and labels for the gifts Cody’s mother and Amanda worked all summer making homemade salsa and pickles as wedding day takeaways. Since pickles are Amanda’s favorite food and salsa has been something Cody’s mom has been making for years, they decided to combine the two. They had three types of salsa. Miller Mild, A&C Just right, and Pribble’s Fire, and the pickles were labeled, “Pickled since 2008” because Amanda and Cody started dating in 2008!

All of the flowers on her dress complemented the fresh flowers of the bouquets, and Amanda felt the best part about all of the wedding details, is that she really trusted in the creativity of the professionals and allowed them to do what they do best. She explained what she liked, and then allowed them to create!

Advice from Amanda: “Don’t micro manage everyone. Trust the people you’ve hired to do this job. They have done it a million times and know what they are doing. Show them your vision, give them ideas of what you like and create something together. They’ve seen enough to know what will and won’t work and it’s good to trust in them. Also remember this is your day, put a little extra into the things that mean most to you and your partner. My mom kept telling me to use dipped aspen leaves as a guest book. I kept saying no. Finally I just listened to her. It was a great decision because what I thought was an unnecessary expense is now a beautiful display in our house and a great memory that I can go through and look at anytime I want.”

Photography: Laura Murray Photography | Videography: Sherri Innis | Event Planning: Karli and Company | Floral Design: Siloh Floral | Cake: Sugar Breck | Stationery: Epitome Papers | Ceremony Venue: Beaver Creek Wedding Deck | Makeup: Divine Beauty Artists | Makeup: Carrie Stockart | Hair: Kacee Picot | Invitations + Calligraphy: Delicate Pen | Entertainment: DTP Events | Wedding Venue: The Park Hyatt Beaver Creek | Bridal Boutique: Little White Dress Bridal Shop | Graphic Designer: Sonder Hand Lettering | Rentals + Decor: Pink Monkey Solutions

We have one word for this Hindu celebration: YAS! It’s absolutely everything we love about weddings and more – gorgeous attire, fabulous accessories, an incredible bespoke collection of paper goods by Yao Cheng Design, stunning florals by Southern Blooms, plus photo after stunning photo of this adorable couple captured by Love by Serena. But it doesn’t end there! The film by East West Production is just as amazing – luckily for us, because we cannot get enough.

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From Love by Serena… Sneh and Kedar’s wedding celebration took place at the beautiful Keswick Hall in Charlottesville, Virginia. Their families gathered together from near and far – some traveling all the way from India for the festivities! From the gorgeous florals by Southern Blooms to the live ceremony painter they had to commemorate this special time in their lives, it was all such a beauty! They created an event that blended both their cultures and southern elegance.

One of our favorite details was their custom watercolored stationery by Yao Cheng Design! As Hindu wedding ceremonies tend to be lengthy (over an hour), Yao designed a beautiful program that explained every aspect and tradition with corresponding painted illustrations.

Photography: Love by Serena | Cinematography: East West | Event Planning: Shindig Weddings And Events | Floral Design: Southern Blooms | Cake: Maliha Creations | Stationery: Yao Cheng Design | Catering: Milan Indian Cuisine | Makeup: Rouge 9 | Hair: Top Knot Studio | DJ: John Garland - Garland Studios | Officiant: Anand Dixit, Pandit | Wedding Venue: Keswick Hall | Accommodations: Keswick Hall | Film Lab: Indie Film Lab | Groom's Attire - Ceremony: Shyamal & Bhumika | Groom's Attire - Reception: Alton Lane | Groom's Ring: Tiffany & Co. | Linen Rentals: CE Rentals | Wedding Dress - Ceremony: Ritu Kumar | Wedding Dress - Reception: Anita Dongre, Style Number: SJ1308A

Here’s the thing about Michaela and Dave – they’re awesome. This is a duo that loves to ski and travel and when it came time to choose a wedding destination, they decided on one of their fave ski resorts, Kirkwood. A little bit laid-back, a little bit rustic and all sorts of gorgeous, it was the perfect, secluded venue for their stunning celebration that included some DIY details, a taco bar and an epic after party. So beautiful… and fun.

Kirkwood is Michaela and Dave’s favorite mountain to ski. They love the laid-back vibe, the awesome terrain and the seclusion from the rest of Tahoe. They kicked the wedding off with a rehearsal dinner and welcome party for all guests at Red Cliffs Lodge, complete with a full taco bar and games. In the morning, they prepared for the day in one of the many condos available to rent at the base of Kirkwood, then Michaela and David (along with their photographer) rode the lift up to the lower corral for First Look photos below the Cirque in the wildflowers and on the mountain trails.

The Ceremony took place in the Meadow at Kirkwood, followed by a reception in the Village Plaza and Wall Bar. Michaela’s cousins made the signs, cake and cake topper. They had their first dance to Adam Sandler’s “I Want to Grow Old With You” from The Wedding Singer. The guests kept warm by the fire with blankets provided by the bride and groom and they danced under the stars.

The after party was a hit at the Cornice Bar & Grill, followed by bagels and coffee the morning after. One of their favorite parts of the weekend was having the whole resort all to themselves and their guests. Walking around the village seeing all of the people they love was so much fun. Guests enjoyed hiking, mountain biking and swimming throughout the weekend, and many reported back that it was the best wedding they had been to!

Saying “I do” against a High Sierra backdrop is never a bad idea and Kirkwood makes it so, so easy with two gorgeous venue options and packages that are perfect for everything from those smaller affairs to those those larger celebrations – they can even accommodate up to 200 guests! We love the idea of tying the knot in their beautiful meadow or village, then dancing under the stars like Michaela and Dave at The Wall Bar & Grill… OR taking advantage of the panoramic views and fireplace at the Red Cliffs Lodge. Either way, you AND your guests will definitely enjoy the breathtaking scenery and cozy accommodations.

From your welcome dinner to your going away brunch, Kirkwood has you totally covered with everything from an on-site venue coordinator to village games like giant chess and Jenga to indoor and outdoor cafe lights. Contact their amazing staff today to get planning and be sure to ask about special lodging discounts, because you and your friends are going to want to hang out awhile.

Photography: Lauren Lindley Photography | Catering: Off The Wall Bar and Grill | DJ: Lake Tahoe DJ | Wedding Venue: Off The Wall Bar and Grill | Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Off The Wall Bar and Grill

With what feels like a million action items on your wedding planning to do list, it’s easy to see why the following items are often pushed to the wayside. But yet, they are some of the most important moments of your Big Day! From the first kiss to the first dance, here are five things you should give a test run before it’s showtime.

The Kiss

Which kiss? Well, you’re going to be throwing the x’s around a LOT on your wedding day, but most importantly—the ceremony kiss. A peck is too simple, tongue is just not OK with grandma… so go for that perfect in between. Practice makes perfect, but you probably don’t need a reminder to kiss your fiancé right now! Keep in mind that you’ll want your ‘first kiss’ to linger a bit so that your photog can capture the moment. 3 seconds should do it.

Getting Comfortable in Front of the Camera

Your photographer should be able to give you some great tips for posing—or for looking natural for those candid shots (harder said than done!). But it’s always a good idea to practice in front of a mirror, too. Try these tips if you’re feeling awkward about your every move being captured. Also, doing an engagement session with your photog is a great test run.

Vows

Whether you’re reciting scripted vows or going with completely personalized vows, it’s always a good idea to practice them beforehand. And, remember to speak up! I don’t think I’ve ever been to a wedding where the Bride or Groom are too loud when saying their vows. Most times, it’s tough to hear them, especially for an outdoor ceremony.

First Dance

You don’t have to go as far as to take dancing lessons—although they would be fun! But let’s face it, cramming in one more thing during the wedding planning process might send you over the edge. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t practice your dancing skills anyway. Grab your sweetie, turn on some tunes and get boogie-ing in the kitchen. Consider that your dress may get in the way—so have a plan of action for bustling, too.

Get to Know Your Dress

You’ll most likely be trying your dress on several times for alterations—but make sure to try it on at home and play around in it too. Get an idea for how it flows, how you’ll hold it with a bouquet or while holding your mister’s hand. These little things will help to prep for your Big Day and avoid any unexpected surprises!

Need a little help getting over the Monday blues? We prescribe a healthy does of this naturally and organically styled destination wedding that captures the warm and inviting spirit of Italy, held at the beautiful Castello di Oliveto and planned by Weddings in Tuscany by Imperial. Photo after dreamy photo by Peter and Veronika are sure to turn your day right around!

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From the bride… Quite soon after Andrew proposed, we decided to get married in Italy. The warmth of the people and the sun, the food, the wine, and the lifestyle of Italy evoked in us a feeling of relaxed happiness, which we wanted to be the spirit of our wedding. We soon realized with the language barrier that we needed a wedding planner; that was one decision I didn’t once question. Planning was fun and allowed me to be creative, with Gillian doing all the hard work! We then flew over to meet her and see venues in Tuscany. It was such an exciting day, helped along with some of Tuscany’s finest wine, and before it ended, we’d booked our villa and castle!

We went home and began searching for photographers, which was incredibly important to us as it is quite literally how you remember the day. We paid a deposit for one photographer before we found Peter and Veronica and fell in love with their flawless fine art photography. Unfortunately we couldn’t get our deposit back, but switching photographers is the best decision we made. You have to take your time and feel comfortable with your decisions, or they’ll keep you awake at night – every night! 

The villa we booked for all our guests blew us away with its breathtaking views of the Tuscan vineyards. It features typical Italian country style and is actually a working wine estate, which came in handy! Our family arrived first and helped us string fairy lights and blow up pizza inflatables, we went for a truffle-filled dinner, and it was the perfect beginning seeing everyone laughing together. Our friends arrived the next day, and we had prosecco by the pool followed by a pizza party under the stars until the early hours. The day before our wedding, we had separate stag and hen days, filled with sunbathing, wine tasting, sight seeing, and of course, plenty of al fresco dining. The day after our wedding, we had a BBQ complete with an old-fashioned gelato cart, a donkey decorated in flowers while carrying beers and her two-week-old baby skipping around the lawn! Every day was special and memorable in its own way, and it was incredible to be able to spend so much time with our family and friends. 

We love the soft, warm, natural tones of Tuscany’s landscape in September, so for our attire we wanted something striking to cut through and contrast those hues. Andrew, being the stylish gent he is, chose the groomsmen’s classic midnight blue dinner suits, and I chose complementary bridesmaids’ dresses. We wanted to look timeless and sophisticated, but we wanted the vibe of the day to be laid back and fun. The band was perfect for this and played great Italian swing and jazz during the prosecco/aperol hour in the gardens of the castle. Castello di Oliveto was built in 1424, it has beautiful detailing and even a bedroom for the pope! We dined in the courtyard, and being surrounded by the ruining walls in candlelight was magical.

For the “wedding breakfast,” we actually called it a feast and wanted it to feel like a big, family-style dinner, and it didn’t disappoint! The natural wooden tables were arranged in a U shape to give a communal feeling to the dinner. Each featured a dark grey runner, tons of candles, an olive leaf and eucalyptus garland, and pots of herbs to really create that castle feast ambience. For place cards, I had everyone’s names painted on marble coasters, which doubled up as favors. The pasta and wine were plentiful, and instead of champagne toasts we asked for bottles of limencello to be plonked down in front of people, which our guests really enjoyed! We then had a traditional Italian wedding cake – mille foglie, which got a bit messy! After that we danced to a DJ and saxophonist before a sparkler send off. 

Dress shopping for me was the least fun part of the planning. I had no idea what I wanted, so instead of dragging my friends around mindlessly, I decided to try on as many as possible by myself. I must have gone to 10-15 different shops, and on the last shop, I was thankfully with my chief bridesmaid when I found this dress by Martina Liana in Angelica Bridal. It really was just a feeling of “ahhh finally!” I loved the ridiculously long train with the detailed trim, the classic cut, the pretty straps, and the low yet modest back. 

My advice to couples is this: Try to do everything in your power to enjoy the process. Make that your number one priority, because a wedding does just last one day, but the engagement and planning is many, many days that can all be incredible if you let them be. Don’t rush decisions! Once you’ve found something then wait as long as you can before putting money in it – I probably would have changed many things just a few weeks after paying for them. Plan a few little surprises for each other, too. Make them secret missions; when they come to fruition, it’s so much fun seeing your partner’s face.

Photography: Peter & Veronika | Event Design: Bride | Event Planning: Weddings in Tuscany by Imperial | Wedding Dress: Essense of Australia | Invitations: Quill London | Bride's Shoes: Tom Ford | Band: Alma Project | Groomsmen's Attire: TM Lewin | Venue: Castello Di Oliveto | Art + Calligraphy : Kilkie Sands | Bridesmaids' Rompers: Piyama

They may be New Yorkers now but this Bride and Groom are true Texans at heart. Great mexican food and an unbridled love for The Cowboys put them on the path to everlasting love and when it came time for wedding planning, the location was a no brainer. Held at The Contemporary Austin, this outdoor celebration designed by 36th Street Events and floraled by Sweetwater Stems, is a mix of easy breezy neutrals and a nod to Midsummer Night’s Dream. Pore through every last gorgeous image photographed by Brett Heidebrecht right here.

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From theBride… Spencer and I are native Texans so it seemed only appropriate to get married back home. We’re both originally from Dallas and we also separately attended The University of Texas at Austin so, needless to say, both cities hold a special place in our hearts. Now, I suppose we are New Yorkers but having that instant connection, those down-home Texas roots, was really instrumental in getting to know each other. You can imagine how nice it was to be with someone who understood things like . . . Texas football, good Mexican food and Bluebell Ice Cream. Plus, we’re both Cowboys fans living in New York City, so that immediately shot-gunned us to the realms of everlasting love.

All that said, it was important to us that we get married where our families raised us – in The Lone Star State. The question became “where”? As any bride, I wanted our wedding to be beautiful and timeless, but we also wanted to make it convenient for our family and friends who would be traveling from all across the country. We chose Austin, which was always high on my list because of it’s laid back feel. The City also catered to the intimacy we were seeking. It didn’t take long for us to settle on Laguna Gloria, an outpost of The Contemporary Austin, just minutes from downtown and serenely situated on Lake Austin. After visiting the site, I knew immediately it was the perfect fit. I love old historical buildings and Spencer really wanted to be outdoors; so it’s lush sculpture gardens and winding secret pathways nestled along the lake made the perfect backdrop for our intimate affair. Choosing The Contemporary Austin Laguna Gloria made the rest of the planning process easy. Spencer and I just wanted an evening under the Texas stars, eating good food, drinking good drink and spending quality time family and friends. Of course, great music and a boppin’ dance floor was important, too!

I had the help of a superstar wedding coordinator, Ren Newey from 36th Street Events. I told her my vision which included words like “ethereal” and “whimsical” and “midsummer night’s dream” – and gave her a gentle color palette of whites and off-whites that would enhance and not compete with the venue’s natural setting and flora. We also chose to tip our hat to my Mexican heritage from my father’s side by serving family-style Mexican cuisine. Ren executed all of this to perfection. She worked with my budget (which I loosened in some areas and buttoned up in others) and helped me secure a fantastic caterer and team of wedding vendors.

On our wedding day, I woke up to torrential rain and whipping winds (every bride’s biggest fear, especially for an outdoor wedding). Yet somehow, I knew everything was going to okay. I was getting married! And I was surrounded by my closest friends and bridesmaids who were keeping me cool and making me laugh as we got ready for the big day. And sure enough, by late morning, the clouds parted, the sun was shining and we were off to the races. My bridesmaids wore various styles of blush/nude colored silk chiffon gowns and my flower girl, also my future step-daughter, wore a simple white play dress adorned with rosettes at the waist. The grooms all wore navy suits including Spencer’s best man, his eleven year-old son.

Spencer and I chose not to do a “first look” with photographs before the ceremony, so the first moment we saw each other was when I walked down the aisle making it all the more joyful. We were both completely filled with emotion. Our ceremony was held in the late afternoon and was presided over by a Presbyterian minister, who we chose not only because of his long-standing relationship with my grandparents, but because we trusted him to perform a beautiful interfaith marriage. He incorporated aspects of each of our faiths mixing in traditions from both Catholic and Jewish ceremonies. (I’m Catholic and Spencer is Jewish). This was not only important to us but it was important to both of our families. To end the ceremony and commence the celebration my siblings surprised us with a mariachi band, secretly replacing the originally planned string quartet. This brought the house down, putting huge smiles on our faces and everyone else’s around us. It also set the tone for a great evening, kicking off with a cocktail hour featuring tacos, a queso/guacamole bar and ice-cold margaritas, and followed by chili rellanos, spinach and mushroom enchiladas, chili rubbed beef tenderloin and plenty of traditional sides for dinner. After dinner, we cut the cake and danced for hours on end to Motown music from the Matchmaker Band. It was truly a night to remember.

Brett Heidebrecht did an incredible job photographing our wedding weekend – from the Friday night honkey tonk hoedown to our wedding night beneath the Texas sky. He perfectly captured the essence of those days, the emotions and the joy. We cannot thank him, Ren and the rest of the team enough for making it an extraordinary affair and we are so grateful for our loving family and friends who were there to be a part of it all.

Photography: Brett Heidebrecht Photography | Videographer: Gentry Faith | Floral Design: Sweetwater Stems | Wedding Gown: Vera Wang | Cake: Quacks Bakery | Ceremony Venue: The Contemporary Austin | Catering: Pink Avacado | Hair & Makeup: Gertie Murray | Lighting: Ilios | Band: Matchmaker Band | Officiant: Rev Dr. Bruce Buchanan | Ceremony Music: Live Oak Trio | After Party Dress: Nina Ricci | Alcohol: Spec's | Chairs: Compass | Getting Ready: Four Seasons Austin | Invitations and Day of Paper: Kings Scribe | Planning & Design: 36th Street Events | Rentals & Tenting: Whim Hospitality | Shuttles: Chariot

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You know what’s better than ogling over one of our fave South Beach venues? Seeing one seriously stylish duo tie the knot in that very space. We call that that a win-win, and we suggest you cozy on up for one of the prettiest weddings ever at the W South Beach. It’s one glam detail after another that will have you booking this Miami hot spot in a heartbeat.

When it comes to your Big Day, we know that finding that dream locale isn’t always easy – whether you plan on tying the knot with only a few in attendance or want to host a luxe reception in that over-the-top Miami style we all love. The W South Beach makes it so, so easy with an experienced team of wedding professionals that will help you create that statement-making event you’ve always wanted – big or small. From their breathtaking Atlantic views to their fabulous amenities to their FOUR venues (check out the tree-filled Grove, one of our faves), they have you covered. And don’t just take our word on it – take your cue from this stunning duo, who hosted what can only be described as a movie-like celebration, complete with an outdoor ceremony and a ballroom reception with dancing ’til dawn.

W South Beach is all about next level weddings with every glamorous detail that you could possibly imagine. Trust us, your every want will be taken care of, right down to their amazing Whatever/Whenever® service, aka, the best concierge service on the planet. Need even more proof? Take it from beautiful bride, Samantha – The best part of working with the W was not having to worry about our day not being beautiful. The venue itself is so stunning without anything extra, it was comforting to know that, no matter what, it would be beautiful. Working with Marina made everything about the day less stressful. She really helped organize our dream wedding from start to finish!

See more of their beautiful day here, then contact Marina Serret at 305.938.3028 to get planning.

Looking for venues is such an exciting moment in the wedding planning process. It’s the moment when you finally feel like a bride and when this whole wedding thing starts to become truly real. But choosing a venue is probably the most important decision you will make—It’s the backdrop of the entire day and will set the tone for everything else that follows. As you’re touring venues, be sure to keep a notebook on you to take notes, and always ask these five questions.

What is included in the price?
Some venues have an all-inclusive package that can include everything from the food to the photographer, while others offer these a-la-cart services or even none at all. Make sure you have a clear notion of exactly what is included in the price they give you. All venues are different, especially when it comes to their pricing, so something that seems to be in your budget could actually be way out of it. Price everything out before getting your heart set on one place!

What dates do you have available?
When my husband and I got married, we wanted to do it on our 10-year anniversary (which, lucky for us, happened to be on a weekend). Although we were looking at venues over a year in advance, there were some places that already had our date booked. For us, the date was the most important factor of the day, so we quickly let those go. If you feel the same, or even if you have a specific month in mind, be sure they have that timing available beforehand.

Are there minimum guest counts?
We often hear of places that have a maximum guest count, but did you know that many venues also have a minimum guest count? If you’re looking to have a small, intimate wedding, make sure that this isn’t the case for the venues you are touring. The same is true for those with a huge guest count—and take note: just because the venue says they can fit 300 people, doesn’t mean they can fit them comfortably. Take a good look at the space and make sure it’s actually big enough for everyone to dance, mingle, and enjoy themselves.

Is there a list of approved vendors?
Do you have your heart set on a florist you want to use? Make sure your venue allows them. A lot of venues have a list of vendors that you are allowed to work with, meaning you can’t pick any vendors not on that list. Always know what your options are for vendors outside of the event space before booking a venue.

Who will we be working with?
This one may be the most important question of all. The person who gives you a tour of the space isn’t always the person you will be working with throughout the wedding planning process. Your point of contact at your venue is someone you will be speaking with a lot. Not only that, but they will also be the one there on your big day making sure everything goes smoothly, so make sure you know who they are! If they aren’t giving you the tour, ask to set up a time to meet them in person—if you don’t like the wedding coordinator at the venue, you could be in for a rough ride!

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Jessica Tzikas is a freelance writer, editor, and content manager from South Florida, who recently moved back to the sunshine state after living in Philadelphia for the past few years. When she isn’t writing, you can find her reading by the beach, spoiling her black lab, and exploring nearby towns with her new husband.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle aren’t the only royals getting married in 2018! Buckingham Palace announced Princess Eugenie will marry Jack Brooksbank this fall.

Princess Eugenie is eighth in line to the throne, although she does not carry out any official royal duties currently. She’s the cousin of William and Harry (they share a grandma, the Queen, of course)!

Jack proposed to the Princess with a beautiful pink-orange sapphire ring, known as a padparadscha.

Isn’t that lovely? We’re kind of obsessed.

Get her look:

Pink engagement ring: 
Sioux Falls ring at Trumpet and Horn
Padparadscha Pinkish Orange Oval Sapphire Engagement Ring at Etsy
Padparadscha Sapphire Ring at Tiffany and Co.

Black pointy toe pumps:
Jimmy Choo Twinkle Knotted Pump
Nine West McFally d’Orsay Pump
Avec les Filles Bow Pointy Toe Pump

Floral dress:
Erdem Louisa Floral Print Dress
Charles Henry Flora Shift Dress
Donna Ricco Floral Illusion Dress 

The couple will marry at the same castle in Windsor as Eugenie’s cousin, Harry! Sarah Ferguson, Eugenie’s mom, posted this sweet snap on Instagram.

A post shared by Sarah Ferguson (@sarahferguson15) on Jan 22, 2018 at 3:07am PST

Congratulations to the happy couple!

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We first met this pair in San Fran at their engagement shoot and feel pretty lucky to bear witness to the rest of their happily ever after adventure. Cassi Claire captured their al fresco “I do’s” and provided us with a gallery of gorgeousness – we’re talking dahlia and succulent filled centerpieces and a ceremony set up that has us all heart eyed. See it all right this way!

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From the Bride… We met on a school trip in France! We had been in a few classes together, but didn’t think too much of each other. We were seated next to each other on the plane and started to hit it off and spent the next few weeks falling in love in the most romantic place in the world!

For our wedding, I wanted a outdoor garden soiree type of event. Something beautiful, soft, romantic and a little bohemian, while still having a touch of class and lots of flowers! I loved all the Pinterest posts of brides with lots of greenery so I chose succulents, eucalyptus and bay leaves to decorate (and smell great!) while the other flowers just added contrast. I liked that it was a neutral palette and everything just flowed together.

We chose our venue, Hacienda de las Flores, because it was naturally beautiful. I had a lot of little details to add to make it our own and unique, but the venue itself didn’t need to be touched. I wanted the natural beauty. Also, I really wanted to dance outside so I loved the fact that we could have our band in the alcove and we could dance under the stars!

We had so many DIY projects! We grew the succulents for months before the wedding to make our centerpieces, our cake toppers were hand carved and painted by Alex, and all of the bouquets, corsages, and boutonnieres were made by me and my bridesmaids the night before. The programs were created by a bridesmaid, the ceremony arch was decorated by friends, the aisle decor was DIY flower arrangements, we made our own batch sangria “cocktails”, and even made our own photo booth area! We borrowed a friends camera and rented the vintage couch! We also created game board rules and score sheets on chalkboards for the lawn games.

My favorite memory of the day was seeing Alex as I walked down the isle. I couldn’t stop looking at him! I was so nervous until I saw him there and I knew that he is the only one I wanted at the end of that aisle. We loved taking communion for the first time as a married couple and having my sister and brother-in-law pray over us and hearing our friend Pat play one of our favorite hymns. Our first dance, I surprised Alex with our band playing La Vie en Rose in both English and French, he speaks French so it was a fun surprise!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO BRIDES PLANNING NOW?

Definitely tap into your friends’ talents! Our friends did such a great job setting up and got so creative with our archway! My sister also does wood burning and did all of our signage. Friends are an endless source of talent and are always happy to help with such a big day! Don’t be shy to ask. Also, definitely keep to a timeline, things got a little dicey at the end with our super long to do list! Find creative ways to keep the budget low! This is definitely the time to call in favors, like using your friends talents, a coworker’s connection to linens, etc. And if your venue has no or a low corkage fee, it is always cheaper to get wine from a wine store and they will probably get you a better wine at a better price than the venue. Find a caterer that will do personalized menus. The food quality will be better and it will give a touch of personality to your wedding. Every wedding can have pot stickers or chicken satay, not every wedding will have porchetta or tortillas espanolas!

Lastly, something will always go wrong, try to keep an open mind. At the end of the day, the little details that go wrong will be so insignificant compared to marrying the person you love. On our day, the table linen was too short, the string lights over the dance floor didn’t go up, our delivery was late, but it all was okay. It was still beautiful and everyone had a great time!

Photography: Cassi Claire | Floral Design: DIY | Wedding Dress: Essense of Australia | Cake: SusieCakes | Invitations: Hello Hapa | Shoes: Frye Boots | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Morning Lavender | Catering: Butter And Salt Gatherings | Hair + Makeup: Michelle Nacar | Favors: Plain Jane | Groom's Attire: Macy's | Groomsmen's Attire: Jos. A. Bank | Venue: Hacienda de las Flores | Bridal Boutique: Flares Bridal | Cake Topper: DIY the Groom | Music: Hella Fitzgerald | Personalized Tie Clips: Tammi James | Signs: We Are Clay Studios | Ties + Pocket Squares: The Tie Bar

If you are at all on the fence about incorporating more color or pattern into your space, this home might just be the nudge you need. It’s classic without being stuffy which is just the kind of combo we adore. Take the tour of this 50’s era remodel masterminded by Jennifer Barron and captured by Molly Culver and get inspired to have a little fun with your decor.

Originally built in the 1950’s, this recently renovated Houston home is the perfection combination of bright colors and playful prints. 

Entry

Paint Color: Alabaster by Sherwin Williams | Wallpaper: Kravet

Living Room

Hide Rug: Lulu and Georgia | Arm Chairs: West Elm | Sofa: West Elm | Coffee Table: Worlds Away

Powder Room

Wallpaper: Quadrille | Trim Paint Color: Dovetail by Sherwin Williams

Old doors are given a contemporary feel with painted trim while traditional pieces, like antique gold mirrors, are balanced by patterned wallpapers in the entry and downstairs powder room.

Family Room

Rug: Lulu and Georgia | Art: Gray Malin

Chairs from Serena and Lily and pendants from Visual Comfort make the gut renovated kitchen feel fresh and bright. 

Kitchen

Pendants: Visual Comfort | Barstools: Serena and Lily

Overall, you can’t help but feel happy and cheerful in this comfortable space.

Photography: Molly Culver Photography | Design: Jennifer Barron Interiors | Coffee Table: Worlds Away | Kitchen Chairs: Serena & Lily | Kitchen Pendants: Visual Comfort | Living Room Furniture: West Elm | Living Room hide: Lulu & Georgia

Every single member of the bridal party at this stylish New Jersey affair captured by Sophie Kaye Photography looked red carpet ready. The bride’s attendees were dressed in pure white, each choosing a dress most suited to her own style. The groom’s attendees, a mix of men and women, contrasted the bridesmaids by wearing chic, all-black attire, while the groom looked absolutely dashing in a velvet jacket by Hugo Boss. And finally, the pièce de résistance was the bride in her champagne gown and veil by Lee Petra Grebenau, paired with stunning red velvet Jimmy Choos, sleek waves by StylesOnB, and a dewy, natural face by Stacie Ford Weddings. It’s official – this wedding wins all the best dressed rewards.

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From Sophie Kaye Photography… This wedding was the epitome of elegance and European charm. The bride and groom, Aileen and Phil, created a truly incredible event at the brand new Park Chateau Estate, mixing their love of editorial fashion and family tradition. Dressed in a stunning champagne bejeweled gown by Lee Petra Grebenau with a matching veil, Aileen dressed her group of closest friends in white for an amazing twist on the traditional wedding party look. Phil wore a velvet blazer and surrounded himself with his own party – of both men and women – in sleek black attire. With incredible over the top florals, each girl carried a stunning cascade of white blooms.

The ceremony took place in the beautiful, on-site chapel. Each seat was decorated with a handmade program by calligrapher Michaela Mcbride. The ceremony involved multiple moments with involvement from family and friends before releasing everyone out to the incredibly decorated reception space. Adam Leffel Productions brought the incredible venue to life by installing magical tree-like structures on the dinner tables, dripping with golden flickering candles. Each display was truly an incredible sight, including the head table which was surrounded by an amazing arch of florals. They really were truly amazing, transforming the french-inspired venue into a whimsical forest.

Photography: Sophie Kaye Photography | Floral Design: Adam Leffel Productions | Wedding Dress: Lee Grebenau | Invitations: Michaela McBride Calligraphy | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Rings: Natural Sapphire Company | Makeup: Stacie Ford Weddings | Hair: Styles On B | Favors: Glaze Artisan | Groom's Attire: Hugo Boss | Groomsmen's Attire: The Black Tux | Venue: Park Chateau Estate | Bridal Boutique: SPINA | Veil: Lee Grebenau

Can’t find the perfect venue? Why not build your own (in your backyard)?! That’s exactly what Andrew and Lauren did with this barn and the result was a gorgeous, sunlit soiree with their nearest and dearest. With the help of Love and Honey Weddings, they pulled off an absolute dream wedding that we’re all wow-ing over at our desks. I’ve got a feeling you’ll be heart-eyed, too, when you see the full batch of images from Click Away Photography!

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From Click Away Photography… Andrew and Lauren were married on September 16, 2017 on Lauren’s family’s property in Lincolnton, just outside of Charlotte, NC. Lauren’s family worked hard on transforming their backyard into the perfect wedding venue, by landscaping and building a new barn perfect for the theme of the wedding. Now let’s talk about Jennifer, Lauren’t mom, and her design skills. Her home is charming and beautiful, full of natural light and stunning decor. It literally looks as if Joanna Gaines herself lived there. We felt like it was Christmas morning shooting details and getting ready photos in such a great space. I even told her mom at one point, that their home was a dream venue, even though it’s not even a wedding venue! The details and decor were minimal, with neutral colors and potted centerpieces- they matched not only the style of the couple perfectly, but also their surroundings. The girls wore champaign colored gowns and the guys wore mismatched navy suits. Love and Honey Weddings did an amazing job putting together the table settings, ceremony site, and overall making sure the day ran smoothly. Both wedding parties and families were great to work with, and so much fun! There was definitely plenty of laughter and love shared throughout the day.

Photography: Click Away Photography | Videography: Reel Weddings | Floral Design: Va | Catering: H&M Catering | Hair + Makeup: Lindsey Regan Thorne | Bridal Boutique: The White Magnolia | Event Planning + Coordination: Love & Honey | Film Lab: PhotoVision Prints

Miami Beach is always a good locale for a modern wedding, and this beautiful bride + groom did it right. Filled with sparkly metallics and lush blooms crafted by Natinel Flowers Linens & Rentals, the sleek stylings and chic W South Beach locale make it a true lesson in contemporary style. See so much more from Max Photo right here and get ready to be inspired.

From the Bride… Evan and I met during a very busy time in our lives. He was in the process of expanding his business and I was applying to doctoral programs. It would seem that the odds were stacked against us, however, it now serves as a testament to our unique and special bond. After three years of dating, we knew we had found our perfect counterparts.  Evan surprised me with a getaway trip to Clearwater. What I thought was a graduation present, ended up being the gift of a lifetime.

Beyond our theme, it was important for our wedding to be an accurate reflection of who we are as people, and as a couple. Having both family and friends in Florida and New York, we easily narrowed down the region. Knowing that we wanted an outdoor spring ceremony, Miami became the inevitable choice. We selected W South Beach as the ambiance and décor impeccably matched our vision of a chic paradise wedding.

Our theme was modern and metallic. The chrome metallic accents easily allowed for the touches of glam, including the bedazzled shoes gifted to me by my little sister and maid of honor, the sparkles on the dress, and shimmer of the linens.  We were incredibly fortunate to have our monogram by Elevennote, which was incorporated on the stationary, ceremony sign, welcome bags, menu, and acrylic card box. Our silver foil accented place cards were placed over a mirrored table top adorned with glass frames of pictures from the weddings of our bridal party members and our grandparents.

W South Beach was the perfect venue for us as it had a perfect spot for each chapter in our day. Our getting ready suites were spacious, stunning, and provided great ocean views for pictures. The private pool was adorned with a mural that just screams Miami, perfect for the first look. While waiting for the festivities to begin, the guests were able to enjoy the dip their toes in the ocean. We wanted a transition from light to dark from ceremony to reception. The palm trees and lawn provided the perfect palate for elegance and the earthy marble accents of the Great Room allowed for the transition to modern and metallic glam.

We were adamant about being true to ourselves individually and as a couple during our ceremony. We recognize our cultures while being sure to highlight the important tenets of marriage that we cherish. We wanted it to be simple, yet deeply meaningful. We collaborated to create our customized ceremony and wrote our own vows. What can be seen simply as an acrylic wedding arch adorned with fresh, white flowers, crystals, and candles was actually a key requirement for us in our ceremony. This chuppah or mandap, is an important symbol in both cultures. Symbolic of our cross-cultural union. In both cultures it represents, with open walls, the home and life we will build as a married couple. Acknowledging an Indian tradition, we opted to have our parents stand with us to represent the each of the pillars, a sturdy foundation. 

We are fortunate to have many loved ones in our lives, but opted for a smaller intimate wedding. Our bridal party consisted only of family members and childhood friends. Evan had traditional groomsmen, but I wanted to honor three important women in my life so I opted to include not one but three titles of Maid of Honor, Matron of Honor, and Best Lady. Our flower girl and ring bearer were born just in time for our special day. Both were born in the year of our engagement and were able to share the aisle with their moms for our ceremony.

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Wedding Dress: Stephen Yearick | Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas | Makeup: Veronica Gonzalez | Officiant: South Florida Officiant | Bridal Robes: Etsy | Cake & Dessert Bar: Elegant Temptations | Ceremony & Reception Venue: W South Beach | DJ, Floor & Lighting: DJ Xio | Day of Coordinator: Marina Serrett | Florals & Decor: Nellie Matos | Here Comes the Bride Sign: The Ritzy Rose | Monogram, escort cards, welcome sign, & welcome bag stationary: Siuleth of Eleven Note | Photography & Cinematography: Max Photo | Reserved Sign: Etsy | Wedding Programs: Infinity Paper

Favors are the cherry on top of a perfect wedding day. There are so many different things to choose from, but many brides are ditching monogrammed trinkets altogether and opting for personalized food items instead.

If the idea of sending your guests home with gourmet chocolate chip cookies or a basket of french fries hasn’t already convinced you to offer an edible favor, these next six ideas will.

A Cultural Ode
Having a destination wedding? Whether you chose the location because it has special meaning to you and your partner or simply because of its beautiful views, there’s no better way to honor its cultural significance than with a small token for your guests to take home. Consider gifting local red wine if your wedding is in Bordeaux, or small bottles of olive oil if it’s in Tuscany—what better way to experience a new place than through food?

Late-Night Fast Food
If your significant other took you a local barbecue joint for your first date, midnight pulled pork might be the perfect ode to the start of your relationship together. Or maybe you bonded over your love of 1950s-style diners—perfect! Serve guests milkshakes and french fries before the night is over. Providing a comfort food to your friends and family after hours of celebratory drinking will be both welcomed and thoroughly appreciated!

A Delicious Treat
It’s no secret that weddings are traditionally filled with sweet treats, but how often do you hear of guests attending a wedding and not even discovering the candy bar or ice cream that’s being passed until they’re on their way out? Handing out gifted desserts will ensure that every loved one gets a taste of something truly delicious! Consider an unexpected treat—like cannoli or cheesecake truffles—to make your wedding one to remember!

Cherished Family Recipes
Include the seasoned chef in your family by asking them to whip up that delicious family recipe they’re known for. Does your Aunt Shirley create the most mouthwatering snickerdoodles the world has ever seen? Ask if she would consider baking a huge batch as a wedding present to you and your fiancé, then purchase packaging materials for an easy (and cheap!) DIY. This is a great way to ensure that your wedding favors will be absolutely delicious—without breaking your budget.

A Quick Snack
Sometimes, the best food is the easiest! Treat your guests to something they can snack on in the taxi while they’re heading back to their hotel. Consider bags of popped popcorn (buttered, kettle, or caramel), gourmet pretzels, or chocolate-covered almonds.

Something Sweet
This one is for those guests whose sweet tooth isn’t quite satisfied by that slice of wedding cake. Jars of fancy honey, hot fudge, or marmalades are always a fun option. Thick and decadent, even a few ounces of these treats will be enough to last them a while—which makes them the perfect wedding favor!

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!

Perusing the beautiful gowns from BHLDN is always awesome, but when they send us a peek at their largest collection ever, well… that’s a day we can really get behind. From show-stopping ball gowns to classic silhouettes to dreamy fabrics like crepe, this new assortment of gorgeous designs is one that can’t be missed. Join us in all of the ogling below, then make an appointment ASAP at any one of their 16 locales to find the one.

We’ve been big fans of BHLDN since the very beginning (we can still remember anxiously awaiting their launch) and one of the reasons why is their amazing ability to create a little something for everyone. Whether you’re planning on saying “I do” in a cathedral, on a rooftop in Manhattan or in a small garden in England, their insanely talented designers will make sure you’re completely covered. And this new collection? It’s awesome. From the unexpected textures and graphic laces (like in the Waverly) to soft hues that basically scream romance (see: the Marsden) to traditional designs with a twist, like the Kellyn and Bishop gowns (those backs, though), you are bound to fall in love with something. Or everything.

BHLDN is known for creating some of the most romantic designs ever – and this new collection most certainly does NOT disappoint. We’re loving the revival of the princess ball gowns, like the Ava and Carolina, and the contemporary designs like the Blake and Octavia gowns that are all kinds of elegant with a modern crepe fabric that is silky soft. And, ohmygosh, are we obsessed with the Everett Jumpsuit. City Hall, here we come.

From drop-dead gorgeous gowns to sparkly accessories to chic bridesmaid dresses so your besties feel just as pretty, BHLDN’s newest collection is everything. Visit their website to check out the stunning designs, then head to one of their so, so beautiful locales to see them in person. Trust us, you’ll love every last one.

While gold Chiavari chairs may be a classic standby, and folding fruitwood chairs are an affordable seating route, the world of wedding seating rentals has truly blossomed in the last few years. Even driftwood cross back chairs are shifting from a rustic novelty to being more of a standard selection with many rental companies.

Online inspiration boards are teeming with clear ghost chairs and industrial copper Tolix chairs, so we want to take a look at some fresh chair ideas that truly push the creative envelope for every wedding aesthetic out there. Gone are the days of settling for the in-house seating options; we simply love the creativity and endless options that exist for reception seating for couples of all styles and aesthetics.

Parisian Perfection

These staples of French cafe awnings and quaint New York City coffee shops are the perfect solution to bring intimate restaurant-style vibes to your wedding celebration. If your guests will be sipping French 75 signature cocktails at your wedding then you could consider renting these stunners.

Modern Glam

According to Baz Luhrmann, “A little party never killed nobody.” Ain’t that the truth! If your wedding is dripping Gatsby 20’s vibes or being held on a glam urban rooftop then these chairs are certainly for you.

Victorian Elegance

From Sonoma to a southern country club, these upholstered numbers are as aesthetically elevated as they are comfortable. If you’re going for an old world elegance meets new world sophistication look for your celebration then these European inspired chairs would complement your decor perfectly.

Organic & Bohemian

If you’re tying the knot in Cabo, Hawaii, or even in a relaxed backyard get together, these chairs would bring out the bohemian feeling you’re looking for. Their rich wood tones are the perfect backdrop to lush florals and flowing linens. A wedding like this deserves to be captured by a fine art wedding photographer with a light and airy aesthetic.

Romantic Garden Party

If your vision emotes feelings of an intimate, al fresco Tuscan dinner party under a canopy of cafe lights then these chairs would bring your wedding to life in all the right ways. Clean lines, fresh design, and understated elegance are the reasons these chairs are simply stunning!

So tell us, what is your perfect reception seating selection? We love how many options are out there for couples!

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.

This adventurous couple wanted an intimate wedding that represented their core values as a couple: family, simplicity, and adventure. So what better place to check off all those boxes than a week and a half of camping followed by a celebration with their immediate family in the Canadian Rockies!? Justine Milton Photography was there to capture this special day that came together so organically, and the gallery is completely sweeping us off our feet with the stunning views and heart-melting looks of love.

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From the Groom… Sarah and my story centers around adventure. We first met in Ottawa, Ontario and followed each other some 2,000+ miles to Edmonton, Alberta after our friendship flourished into love. We spent the next few years exploring all western Canada has to offer – road tripping, camping, and hiking. We got engaged at the Capilano Suspension Bridge in Vancouver, British Columbia on a surprise weekend getaway.

When we started thinking about planning our wedding, it was important that our big day reflect our adventurous spirits. Since our families and friends span many provinces and countries, we first contemplated a big wedding, then thought about eloping, but finally decided that a small, intimate wedding with just our immediate family (25 people) was what we truly desired. Our families hadn’t met before the wedding, and we thought what better way to get to know one another than a week and a half of camping in the Canadian Rockies?

Once we established the kind of wedding we wanted, we started focusing on the details. We wanted an outdoorsy wedding in one of our favourite spots – Spray Lakes Provincial Park. We wanted to keep things fairly simple when it came to decor. We wanted to do as much of the planning and detail work ourselves. Finally, we knew having good photo documentation of the day was very important to us. We turned our attention to finding the perfect person to capture our day. We found Justine Milton Photography on Instagram and instantly fell in love with her light, airy style. We booked her immediately.

Next came Sarah’s dress. Sarah knew she wanted her mom to design and contribute to part of her dress, as she is an experienced seamstress. After a bit of searching, Sarah found a lace cocktail dress at David’s Bridal, which paired beautifully with the handmade skirt that her mom had created. With a few final details, like a belt from BHLDN and a flower crown from Boho Halo Company, Sarah’s outfit was perfect. The rest of our planning fell into place from there.

Because we were having such a small event, we knew we didn’t want all the bells and whistles that can accompany a larger wedding. A lot of our decorations and details were handmade by ourselves (with lots of help from friends and family) or purchased locally. We actually found most of these items by chance, which fit with our plans for a simple and carefree wedding.

Our wedding day was everything that we had imagined and more – an easy-going ceremony, an intimate setting, and stunning views. After the wedding, we had a small reception on the balcony at Iron Goat overlooking the Three Sister mountain range. The entire day was documented so wonderfully by Justine Milton Photography, capturing the essence of everything we wanted that day to represent – family, simplicity, and adventure.

Photography: Justine Milton Photography | Bride's Shoes: Aldo | Hair: The Loft Hair Studio | Bow Tie: Offal Goods | Bride's Belt: BHLDN | Bride's Top: David’s Bridal | Earrings: Coutu Kitsch | Flower Crown: Boho Halo Company | Groom's Pants: Simons | Groom's Shirt: Frank & Oak

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One of the most memorable weddings I attended included being part of a second line through Bourbon Street in New Orleans. If you’ve never heard of it, it’s basically a parade (compromised by the newly married couple and their guests) led by a band.

Since then, it’s been fun to keep an eye out for unique wedding traditions, specific to certain regions. Here’s a few that might be worth incorporating into your big day.

Bury the Bourbon

The Southern tradition consists of couples burying an upside down bottle of bourbon, on-site at their venue, a month before their wedding to ward off rain. After the ceremony, the bottle is dug up, the couple takes a swig and shares it with their wedding party and guests. Last year, Summerfield Farms in North Carolina, saw an uptick of couples incorporating the boozy ceremony into their wedding festivities, said a spokesperson.

A Last Shave

“In Greece, it is a long-standing tradition for the groom’s best man to shave him on his wedding day as a ‘last shave,’ and his new mother in-law then feeds him honey and almonds,” says Kim Sayatovic of Belladeux Event Design. Rather than risking any cuts to the face on someone’s wedding day, Kim recommends getting the groom and his groomsmen to an old-fashioned barber. One that uses a straight razor and hot towel for shaves. If either of the couple is Greek, Kim recommends having the honey and almonds on-hand at the reception or rehearsal and incorporating them into a toast to the new in-laws.”

The Over The Top Sweets Table

“The Viennese (or Venetian) Hour, an Italian tradition, is big in New York and New Jersey,” says Allison Davis of Davis Row. “But it’s becoming popular everywhere.” The best way to describe it, is an over-the-top dessert bar. “You’ll typically find more than just cake. Think pie, cookies, fruit, parfaits, pastries and more, along with coffee and tea service. It’s an extravagant display of every dessert you can think of.” Perfect for the couple with a sweet tooth.

Saw a Log

“In Eisenach, Germany, I witnessed a wedding in which, after taking their vows, the bride and groom gripped opposite handles of a two-handed saw and then cut a log of wood in half together,” says Janet Ruth Heller. What Janet witnessed is the German tradition of Baumstamm Sägen. The ceremony symbolizes working together to overcome life’s obstacles. It’s a fun way to begin a life together, celebrate Germanic roots and create the perfect photo opp.

Keep the Party Going

Couples have after parties, Hindu weddings may go on for days and then there’s Poland’s Poprawiny, the next day party. “The family of the couple invites guests, to their home for another celebration,” says photographer Joanna Moss. “The bride and groom visit both parties where food and drinks are free flowing, and the party ends when the last guest leaves.” The next day party begins at breakfast and can go one for up to three days. All of this on the family’s dime says Joanna, a Poland native. Nazdrowie to that (or Cheers!).

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Ximena N. Larkin is a writer and publicist. She lives in Chicago with her husband and dog.