Snow-capped mountains, flocked evergreens and a fireside celebration are all tucked inside this winter wedding that reads like a stunning postcard from Telluride. Tec Petaja’s scenic images combined with the lush, jewel-toned florals by New Leaf Design, and production by Soiree Telluride are all the proof you need that cold weather nuptials are the prettiest of all.

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Shana & Anthony’s ceremony was in the Great Room at the Ridge Club at an elevation of 10, 535 feet with sweeping views of the mountains and Town of Telluride. Guests enjoyed the romantic gondola ride to transport them to the ceremony location. The decor in the ceremony space was minimal and muted as a nod to the wintry environment backdrop enjoyed through the floor to ceiling windows behind the bride and groom. The beams were draped in neutral ivory to soften the space, ghost chairs were added for seating, and ivory aisle runner lined with low monochromatic arrangements completed the space. A string trio played throughout the intimate and personal ceremony. Post ceremony, guests moved upstairs to Allred’s where they were greeted by a string trio playing and silver tray passed champagne. A large scale floral garland was added to the mantle in the bar, where the guests enjoyed cocktails and Hors d’oeuvres. Guests gathered near the wall of windows to soak in the view of the alpenglow sunset that Telluride is so very famous for. As guests were led into the dining room, by the Australian grammy winning DJ, the decor palette deepened to compliment the elegant touches. The reception venue was transformed by a large-scale ceiling installation comprised of fabric panels and floating floral clouds to set a striking back-drop for the reception. For dining, layers of velvet linens created a rich look with custom runners and napkins (fabricated by iDecorate, which is owned and operated by the bride). Each place was set with a a rose gold charger and matching flatware (from iDecorate) as well as a personalized leather luggage tag was added as a place card for each guest. The modern arrangements were color blocked from soft ivories, blushes, nudes, culminating in deep burgundies to create a dramatic tablescape. Lighting was added to highlight the decor and create an intimate feeling in the breathtaking space. Guests enjoyed multiple courses, superb wines and dancing the night away in Shana and Anthony’s magical winter wonderland.

Photography: Tec Petaja | Wedding Dress: Ersa Atelier | Makeup: Erin Cain | Hair: Megan Keever | Groom's Attire: Ermeneglildo Zegna | Event Production: Soiree Telluride | Floral/Decor: New Leaf Design | Rentals: Premiere Special Events | Restaurant : Telluride Ski Resort | Tablescape: iDecorate | Video: Benny Gatteggio

Celebrating a new little bebe is always a good time but when you add in a gloriously pretty combo of lucite and whimsical florals, it makes for a party anyone would kill to get an invite to. Have a look at this alfresco celebration designed by Rock N’ Events with florals by Three Petals and all captured by Natalie Bray.

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From Rock n’ Events Genevieve…As for planning and inspiration, it was a world-wind of wild ideas, specifically we wanted to steer clear from the typical pink baby showers that you see all over Pinterest. We were intrigued by our clients and the mom-to-be’s whimsical personality. Being inspired by the inner workings of our clients personality was the first step in the design process. In the design process we take a word, for example ‘whimsical,’ we then explore ideas that don’t make you think “That’s whimsical” but rather transport you to a place of a purely fantastical experience!

From Photographer…This was such a wonderful event to get to capture from the love surrounding bringing a new life into this beautiful families hearts to the incredible detail that was put into each inch of this baby shower to celebrate baby Sophie. So many great moments: whimsical umbrellas paired with lucite, gorgeous Casa de Perrin and white tulips by three petals shined and grounded the color palette, macaroons, cute gifts on each place setting, and floral crowns for each guest. It was an incredible afternoon filled with immense joy and happiness.

Photography: Natalie Bray Studios | Event Design: Rock N' Events | Floral Design: Three Petals | catering: Giracci Vineyards Farms | calligrapher : alice hung with Rock N' Events | Table Cloth rentals : Wildflower Linen | Table top rentals : Casa de Perrin | bunny rentals: zoo fantastic | desserts: Bottega Louie | event rentals : Signature Party Rentals | umbrellas : Bella Umbrella

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Natalie Bray Studios

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It’s true that every engagement session is special, but this one has an added dose of magic. Not only is the bride-to-be a Style Me Pretty veteran, but her best friend and cousin, Erin Mulrain, captured the whole thing. Prepare yourself, because this gallery is full of the sweetest moments!

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From the bride-to-be… Growing up, it was always a give in my closest friend and cousin would play a huge part in my wedding – but never could I have imagined that would have been in more ways than one! When I realized how serious Erin had become about her photography over the past year, it was clear to Brian and I that she was who we wanted to take our engagement photo shoot. I knew not only would Erin’s photographs turn out amazing, but there was no one I’d rather share this part of our engagement with than her.

After talking with Erin and throwing around a few ideas, we both knew Hoboken was the ideal place for the shoot. Brian and I have both lived in North Jersey our whole lives – and actually first started seeing each other after meeting in Hoboken 5 years ago. We’ve made countless memories there not only with each other, but with our friends and family — including of course, Erin.

Hoboken offered a mix of different backdrops that Erin photographed beautifully – from the stunning skyline and historic train station to the quaint Court Street, we’re thrilled with all of the photos. Not only will the pictures celebration of our engagement, but they’ll always be a little extra special thanks to Erin!

From the photographer… When my cousin Stephanie asked if I would take her and her fiancé Brian’s engagement photos, there was not a moment of hesitation in giving her my excited yes! Stephanie and I have grown up together and been by each others’ side for countless milestones and we can now add this to the list!

Having only picked up my first Canon a little over a year ago, it is safe to say they were taking a chance on me! This bit of kindness and trust, however, was nothing unexpected from my cousin and her fiancé.

We quickly decided that Hoboken, New jersey would be the perfect location to shoot as it is where Stephanie and Brian first met and where I have lived for the last few years. After making our way down the cobblestone road of Court Street, we were able to stop in by the Hoboken Terminal and then head down the Hoboken Waterfront Walkway just in time for “golden hour” and beautiful fall skies at sunset.

Hoboken’s unique style and backdrops are only trumped by the countless memories we have all made here. I will forever be grateful to have been a part of this process for my cousin (and oldest friend) Stephanie and her fiancé Brian.

Photography: Erin Mulrain

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Petit Bouquet

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It’s a gooood time to be a bridesmaid, my friends. Gone are the days of over-ruffled, crinkle satin, poofy numbers and IN are elegant, sweeping styles that you’ll be thrilled to keep in your closet long after the I dos are over. And the hue options? There’s sooo much pretty to pick from. Here are five shades we’re keeping our eyes on for 2018.

Teal

Jewel tones are sneaking their way back into the scene and we’re loving it. An elegant teal is a beautiful alternative to traditional navy blue!

Pairings: This hue pairs beautifully with coral, blush and peach.

Dusty Mauve

Love the look of blush but going for something a little less ‘sweet’? Try an elegant dusty mauve. This hue transcends seasons and looks gorgeous on a variety of skin tones.

Pairings: This hue is lovely mis-matched with blush, ivory and even grays.

Dusty Blue

Any hue muted just feels that much more elegant and allows you to play around a bit more with color in your florals and decor. So is true for dusty blue!

Pairings: Red, coral, peach and cream. The pretty proof is above!

Nude

Neutrals are always in, but this year we’re predicting bridesmaids will be donning nudes over blushes. The perfect way to give your wedding a light, airy vibe.

Pairings: Mauve, sweet pink, peach, teal and navy come to mind—really, nudes are just so versatile!

Midnight Blue

Alllmost black but not quite, a midnight blue has the classic feel of a black without going all the way there.

Pairings: Creams, yellows, pinks, you name it. Think of hues that will pop against this beautiful deep hue!

This wedding may have occurred on April Fools’ Day but it’s no laughing matter; instead we have a pretty as can be spring wedding with plenty of pastels and lots of smiles. Eventi Floral & Events spearheaded the design and fabulous florals for this special celebration in Chesapeake Bay and Abby Jiu and Lee Russell Films captured it all from start to finish. All in all, it’s one inspirational island wedding we’re happy to be surprised with!

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From Eventi Floral & Events… When the bride, Melissa, was just a little girl, her parents brought her to Gibson Island to see if she might like living on the island. During a tour of the club, she walked out the back door, looked out over the water and said that she wanted to get married there. Fast forward a few years to a stunning brand new Club and she still had the same wish.

From the Bride… Gibson Island is a small community, 1000 acres on the Chesapeake Bay with roughly 200 homes. Our friends and family on the island hosted guests for us so that everyone was able to stay on the island and have a wonderful relaxing weekend both celebrating and enjoying the space. People were able to rent golf carts to drive around and fully enjoy the island experience.

From Eventi Floral & Events… Once we navigated the housing situation, the only pickle was that the club had recently been rebuilt and was not able to accommodate her 200+ guest count. So, tent it was!

From the Bride… When looking at available dates in April, April Fool’s Day seemed like the perfect fit! We wanted our wedding to feel inviting and welcoming. I am from the east coast and Scott is from Arkansas, so we knew many people would be traveling. We wanted to make sure that they felt taken care of and welcome and understood how grateful we were that they travelled to come celebrate with us. We tried to tie in different elements from our respective families and homes as well. We called the hogs at the wedding (an Arkansas tradition) and everyone cheered with excitement when the band played it!

We thought purposefully about seating arrangements and where to put people so they got to know other great guests. We also had several guests that we knew had something in common or would get along and wanted to create a way to make sure they were able to visit with one another. At dinner, we had something called The Hunger Games – we put little known facts that we thought would bring out conversation, get people talking, or make the small world connections known. It would say something like “Someone at this table…” and then apply to multiple people, a cool story about someone, a connection to the bride/groom etc. We felt it added to the atmosphere of making everyone feel welcome and like a true guest.

From Eventi Floral & Events… We wanted to give Melissa and Scott something they could put up in their home so we opted to have Amanda Day Rose create a watercolor of the club that held their reception and have guests sign around it. We then used the watercolor design throughout the day on the seating chart display, the bar menus and a few other places. It really helped tie everything together. We also has a ring bearer pillow made out of the same map print of the Chesapeake Bay from the invitation envelope liner.

From the Bride… Some of my favorite memories include:

Getting ready with my friends and my mom and taking pictures on our back lawn. The wind made for great photos and it was so relaxing and fun!

I did a first look with my dad and my friends. No one had seen my wedding dress and it was so wonderful to surprise everyone. My dad started crying, which of course made me cry.

Getting ready to walk in, and start the ceremony my bridesmaids and parents were hanging out in a room upstairs. They had a window that looked out onto the entrance and we got to see everyone walk in. That was so much fun seeing all the guests arrive – I could feel the anticipation and excitement.

As the guests approached we had bagpipes playing. That element was super special. My parents had them at their wedding and we are a very Scottish family and my husband’s name is Scott – so it added to the “Scottish” element!

Walking down the aisle and seeing Scott for the first time was very emotional. We decided not to do a first look because he wanted to see me for the first time in that moment and I’m glad we waited. It truly was what you dream about as a kid.

Walking in to see the tent for the first time was amazing. I had not been able to fully imagine how incredible it was going to look and it was really breathtaking. After all that planning, and planning remotely you just trust your wedding planner/designer that it will all work out and she really did more than I could have ever imagined. Getting to see it put to life was underrated. Even for Scott, he had some idea about things but was also in the dark about a few and getting to see his reaction of all the hard work everyone had done was just as wonderful. It was like getting to experience that happiness twice!

Being announced was easily one of my favorite memories and I didn’t anticipate it being that way. The way we walked into the tent we walked through a line of our friends and they were clapping and high fiveing and patting us on the back. We felt the love from everyone that day in a whole new way.

Our first dance and then having everyone come out onto the dance floor was so memorable. It felt like the party was getting started and I could feel how excited and happy people were to be there. I felt very much like a host throughout the whole wedding and wanted to make sure everyone was having a good time and their needs were taken care of, getting the dance party started and dancing with Scott as husband and wife was the BEST.

The confetti during our last dance was AWESOME. It was like being inside a snow globe and was the best way to end the night.

Photography: Abby Jiu Photography | Videography: Lee Russell Films | Event Planning + Design: Eventi Floral & Events | Floral Design: Eventi Floral & Events | Wedding Dress: Amsale | Invitations: mlc designs, llc | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Catering: Gibson Island Club | Hair + Makeup: Behind The Veil | Calligraphy: Shotgunning for Love Letters | Entertainment: DJ Jake Sherman | Band: Infusion By Washington Talent | Men's Attire: Menguin | Transportation: American Limo | Venue: Gibson Island Club | Tent: Loane Brothers | Ceremony Musicians: Washington Talent - Da Vinci Strings | Custom Watercolor: Amanda Day Rose | Dessert: Sugar Bakers Cakes | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Photography - Assistance: Abby Jiu Photography | Rentals: Party Rental LTD | Rentals: Select Event Group | Rentals: Revolution Event Design And Production

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Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

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When it comes to home priority lists, it seems the bedroom always gets put on the back burner. It’s simply a room you sleep in, right? Wrong. The power of a well-designed bedroom has the potential to start your day off on the right foot and end it with a welcoming, serene vibe. Today, we’ve invited the team at SAGE Interior Design to share their tips on how to give yours ALL the cozy feels and this one they designed for one of their clients is EXACTLY that. See it all laid out in the full gallery captured by Freebird Photography!

Luxe Bedding

The best way to get a good nights sleep? Invest in amazing bedding! We used all white bedding from Parachute Home and it was one of the best decisions we made for our clients. They are always telling us how they never want to leave their bed because they are so comfortable! The 100% long-staple Egyptian cotton is crisp, clean and livable and gets softer with every wash. Parachute Home is hands-down our favorite bedding on the market!

White Furniture

White furniture is a modern style staple that is never considered a “trend.” You can’t go wrong with white furniture in any room of the house, especially the bedroom. White evokes feelings of airiness and cleanliness because it’s calming, simple, and timeless. You can add in pops of color through throw pillows & blankets, artwork and even wallpaper (another favorite of ours right now!).

Natural Pieces

With so much white & blue in this room, we wanted to break it up by adding in natural, warm textures like the woven chandelier and baskets. These pieces will never go out of style and blend in perfectly with the rest of the room. The chandelier is also very structurally interesting and draws the eye up when you enter the room. Plus it gives the room that extra coastal feeling we were going for!

Leather

Add a natural + warm look to the your space by adding in leather! Leather adds a modern and also natural look to a room, Bonus: authentic leather wears beautifully with age. One of our favorite leather items for the bedroom? Using poufs at the end of the bed to be used for extra seating that can easily be moved over to your reading chair to act as a footrest! We also tied leather into other side of the bedroom by adding rich leather straps to natural wood to create a book shelf for the reading nook. If you take a close look at the rug you can also see there is leather woven into it as well!

Greenery

One of favorite ways to create a dream bedroom is through the use of plants! We always incorporate two plants into every room: one floor plant and one smaller plant that can sit on a table or shelf. Plants not only bring color and life into a room but they can also help fill in those empty spaces where nothing else would work. Bonus: plants naturally clean our air so of course we want them in our bedroom!

Photography: Freebird Photography | Interior Design: Sage Market + Design | Product Inquiries: Sage Market + Design

After vacationing in the Luberon Valley and falling in love with the charm and rosé of the area, it was clear where this London based couple would be holding their destination wedding. Mas de la Rose provided all the beauty of a Provencal backdrop they could dream of and was made even more so with florals by Big Day Studio and stationery by Beautifully Lost Studio. Pore through image after stunning image of this blushing affair captured by Oliver Fly.

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From the Bride… Thomas and I had been together for a year and half before he asked me to marry him on the very beautiful island of Koh Lanta, Thailand. Unbeknown to myself, Thomas had asked my father for permission and I was completely blindsided by his very thoughtful and traditional proposal. After popping the question on a remote part of the island, he arranged the most romantic evening dinner on the beach. There were huge love hearts engraved into the sand which were covered in pretty flower petals and candles, it was truly the most romantic gesture and I knew I was lucky to be marrying Thomas.

We couldn’t wait to start planning our big day and we both knew deep down that we wanted a destination wedding. Unfortunately London, our home, is famed for its greys skies so getting far away from this was, in our minds, a done deal. Thomas’ parents have a small cottage in the idyllic Luberon Valley, in Provence, and our first holiday together was there. I had been to France quite a few times but never to Provence and, I do not say this lightly when I say, I was blown away by its charm and breath-taking beauty (not to mention the delicious Provencal rose!). So for all these reasons we decided to have a Provencal wedding.

After a short time of looking we came across Mas de la Rose and we knew straight away that we wanted to have our wedding there, the venue is stunning and Veronique, the hotel manager, made everyone feel so special. With the wedding venue chosen we needed to find a photographer that would capture our special day and we were blown away by Oliver Fly’s beautiful pictures. It was clear to us from the onset that he takes great pride in his work and we really valued his very personal approach. We spent several skype sessions getting to know Oliver and this helped us to feel at ease with him ahead of the big day and, after seeing our photos, we could not be happier with his work!

We were so incredibly lucky to have the most amazing team of people who take such pride and pleasure from their jobs : Ylva and Agnes were so sweet and helped me and bridesmaids to get ready; Thomas Dusseune, the DJ, was just so attentive and professional and he clearly has an incredible grasp of his art and Big Day Design created the dreamiest floral arrangements that complimented my colour scheme the venue to perfection. Thanks to our amazing friends and family, a dreamy venue and team of highly qualified vendors we ended up having a wedding weekend that exceeded our imagination in every possible way. Everyone who shared this with us and who contributed to the success of our day will be forever in our hearts.

Photography: Oliver Fly Photography | Floral Design: Big Day - Design Studio | Wedding Dress: Anna Georgina | Wedding Dress: Kobus Dippenaar | Catering: Mas De La Rose | Hair : Agnes Caneri | DJ: Thomas Dusseune | Calligraphy/Stationery : Beautifully Lost Studio | Luxury Hotel : Mas De La Rose | Make Up Artist: Ylva Langenskiold | Processing Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Silk Ribbons : Orchidee De Soie

We did it! My favorite gals and I headed over to BHLDN last month for my very first wedding dress shopping trip. And dare I say, it was a smashing success. While I was as awkward as can be (typical), it was a really lovely morning with some of my favorite people. We worked with a gem of a stylist, who helped me in and out of some of the most beautiful gowns I’ve ever seen.

We even combined the bridal and bridesmaids appointment. Because I now live 1,000 miles away from 4 of the 5 bridesmaids in our wedding, we figured it would be ideal to shop for both my wedding dress and the bridesmaid dresses at the same time. We started with the bridal appointment, then transitioned into the bridesmaid appointment. Both were a total blast, as you can see from Sweet Monday‘s gorgeous photos!

If you’re getting ready for your first (or second, or third….) appointment, here are 7 ways to prepare for wedding dress shopping.

Finalize your appointment guest list
Are you bringing family members? Friends? Bridesmaids? Finalize your appointment guest list a few days in advance to prepare the boutique or shop you’re visiting. If you’ve got a large group, it’s best to give them a heads up. Many boutiques have a limit of how many people you can bring with you, so be sure to look into that prior to your appointment.

Keep an open mind
My dear friend and wedding planner extraordinaire, Kelly, told me that I should be open to trying on at least one dress that I never envisioned myself in. And boy was she right. I never would have known that I loved it because I never would have tried it on! So, keep an open mind, because you never know what you may find (or fall in love with).

Jot down the elements you like and don’t like
For example, I knew I didn’t want strapless. I want to be comfortable in my wedding dress, which I know isn’t always a ‘must’ for wedding dress shopping. But, I’ve heard horror stories from friends of having to cut wedding dresses off because they were too tight…. And, no thank you. I want to be happy and comfortable, and able to eat, drink, and dance on my wedding day! So, fussing with a strapless top all day is out. I also knew that I didn’t want lace or a tight gown. I could go on and on, so let’s get to the point: plan to head in with a few of the elements you like or don’t like in mind or even written down so you don’t forget. Your stylist will ask you before you dive in what types of gowns you have your eyes on and which ones are an absolute no.

Know that you may not find “the one”
If this is your first time dress shopping, don’t feel pressured to find “the one”. If none of the wedding dresses pique your interest, that’s okay! What you can do is take photos of the wedding dresses you liked (and photos of you in said dresses) to look back on later. You may see pieces of the gown that you liked and didn’t like, which will help you prepare for your next trip.

Wear the right undergarments
To be frank, this is the less glamorous part of the appointment – actually getting into and out of the gowns. There will most likely be a stylist accompanying you in the dressing room, so I’d suggest wearing undergarments that you’re comfortable with a team member seeing you in. And – a strapless bra may be best!

Have fun with it
Something I was unprepared for was not having a mirror in the dressing room, which meant that I had to venture out into the space where my family and friends were awaiting each dress unveiling. It was intimidating and slightly unnerving, because I didn’t know how I looked in each gown until after I saw their reactions. However, all I could do was be a little silly and have fun with it. If you’re feeling anxious, shake it out and just have fun with it.

When in doubt, brunch
Plan for a little treat after dress shopping to keep the celebrations going. After we went dress shopping, we all went out for a tasty brunch nearby. We kept it simple – and gasp, didn’t even make reservations – which was exactly what we needed. It was a low-key meal that we enjoyed together, and of course, spent chatting about all things wedding.

Are you a fellow bride-to-be? How did your first wedding dress shopping trip go? I’d love to hear the good, the bad, and the ugly!

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Petit Bouquet

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I am insanely jealous that I was not a guest at this wedding. Held at the fabulous Wythe Hotel in Brooklyn, this Bride and Groom celebrated with some of the best wedding food and drink I’ve ever heard of. We’re talking fried chicken and frozen margaritas… at the cocktail hour alone! Oh and that cocktail hour? It was held at the Brooklyn Bowl across the street from the Wythe. This wedding just keeps getting better and better with every new detail (designed by Lavender Grey Events)… and with every one of Adam Barnes’ photos. See more from the best party in town right this way!

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From the Bride… When we decided to have our wedding on the east coast, close to our families, we knew that New York City was our ideal location. Our guests would be coming from all over – California to New Zealand – so a location with lodging and activities was the top of our list. We loved that Williamsburg and Wythe Hotel offered just that. Joe and I created an accommodations book of our favorite bars, restaurants, sights, hotels, and shopping that we included in our invitation designed by Sloane Harmony. We included things like my all-time favorite view of Manhattan (from the Staten Island Ferry at night), and Rough Trade (Joe’s favorite place to go digging for vinyl). We both just wanted our guests to have an unforgettable weekend in the city we love.

I spent the night before the wedding with my Maid of Honor and best friend of 10 years, Alexandria. In a beautiful room at the Wythe with a stunning view of Manhattan, we talked about my soon-to-be hubby and drank champagne… it was a good, old fashioned sleepover. When the morning arrived and my bridesmaids joined us, the fun and excitement continued. Joe spent the morning with his family – the men got straight razor shaves, followed by lunch at Reynard – and the afternoon with his groomsmen getting ready while we had bagels and mimosas two floors down. My old friend and fantastic makeup and hair stylist, Nicole Amaducci glammed my girls, while I was pampered by Michiko Boorberg and Clarissa Luna. Alexandria’s mom adorned the softest robes with gorgeous geometrical lace for myself and the bridesmaids, and I presented vintage handkerchiefs (I had a feeling it would be a tearful day). Joe gifted his groomsmen with his favorite book inscribed with a note to each. Joe and I decided not to do a first look because I always had this idea of catching the look on my groom’s face as I walked down the aisle towards him with all of our loved ones supporting us, so instead, our wonderful photographer Adam Barnes caught a first look for both my mom and my dad.

Guests were welcomed by a 3-piece jazz band and a pre-ceremony bar marked by a big wooden sign we created. Joe’s parents brought the wood and his great grandmother, artist Ilonka Karasz’s easels, and I (along with my favorite Cricut machine) created vinyl lettering and transfers of artwork done by my Maid of Honor – to create bar menus and signage to be used later. La Petite Gardenia dressed the space with decadent foliage garlands full with pods and berries for texture.

Walking down that aisle towards Joe was everything I imagined. As we both fought back tears (I was right about needing the handkerchiefs), all I could think about was that this is what every little girl dreams about. It really was the fairytale. We were married by Alexandria’s father, someone we greatly admire and who opened his heart to us both over the years. We read vows that made each other laugh and cry and we finished our walk back down the aisle with a toast of our favorite champagne. It was perfect.

We did something a bit different for our cocktail hour – we led all of our 115 guests across the street to Brooklyn Bowl. Here we used another of the signs we created to encourage guests to follow us into the bowling alley. At Brooklyn Bowl, they enjoyed Blue Ribbon Fried Chicken, cocktails, and the Bowl’s famous frozen margaritas while showing off their skills at a few frames. After cocktail hour, the sign was flipped to “Let’s Eat” and guests were welcomed back to the Wythe for the reception.

The Outdoor Garden had transformed from our ceremony space to the soon-to-be dance floor, but first, guests were invited into the Main Hall for dinner after stopping to pick up their escort cards. Immediately after Joe and I got engaged at the United Artists Theatre DTLA, we went for a celebratory drink at The Ace Hotel. We came across their photo booth and took a few pictures to capture our excitement. Now every time we see a photo booth, we have to go in to add to our collection – but back to the escort cards. We had the two photo strips from our engagement reproduced and Ivory Plum Lettering wrote everyone’s names and table numbers on them for us. My dad and I built the wall they were attached to. The reception began with our first dance. My dad and I shared the second, followed by Joe and his mom. These are some of my favorite pictures of the whole night: Joe doing a merengue with his mother, my dad and I fighting back tears…

After dinner and four beautiful speeches, the doors to the Outdoor Garden opened and our beyond fantastic 90’s cover band, Jeff From Accounting, drew the crowd outside. I had created a big sign as a surprise for Joe (with the help of my dad and a long time family friend) with a piece of our story on it. After he saw, I snuck upstairs for a costume change. I also surprised him with a cigarette girl who passed cigarettes, cigars, and custom matches with Alexandria’s drawing of our dog, Dylan, that said “Congrats Mom and Dad”. Joe’s favorite movie is the Sound of Music, so there was even a little joke with the signage. We didn’t do the traditional bouquet or garter toss, but after an amazing dance / scream your face off to your favorite 90’s song (i.e. Say It Ain’t So, Hey Jealousy, etc.) set, we cut a small cake and bite sized desserts were brought out on concession trays I had created so that guests didn’t have to leave the dance floor. The band had ended and our wonderful DJ played an inspired mix of popular music from the 70’s through the early 2000’s, kicking it off with amazing disco. The night ended with our guests getting to take home a night cap. Rocks glasses, mini bottles of alcohol, and mixers were set up on two bookshelves and guests could grab their ingredients on the way out the door. For those that wanted to keep the party going, Schimanski Nightclub opened it’s doors to our guests.

It was everything I dreamed it would be. Our guests had an amazing time, we were surrounded by amazing friends and family, the food was delicious, the music was wonderful, we bowled, I got to marry my best friend… it was incredible. I’ll never forget standing in the middle of the dance floor, looking up at the glow of the string lights and the moon beyond, and thinking “this is what complete happiness feels like”. Thank you to all who shared in and made our day possible. We love you.

Photography: Adam Barnes Fine Art Photography | Coordination: Baskin Events | Event Design: Lavender Grey Events | Floral Design: La Petite Gardenia | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Invitations: Sloane Harmony Design | Bride's Shoes: Manolo Blahnik | Bridesmaids' Dresses: BCBGMAXAZRIA | Calligraphy: Ivory Plum Lettering | DJ: Daniel Moose | Groom's Attire: Topman | Groomsmen's Attire: The Black Tux | Wedding Venue: Wythe Hotel | 90s Cover Band: Jeff From Accounting | Bride's Hair: Michiko Boorberg | Bride's Makeup: Clarissa Luna | Bride's Party Dress: Herve Leger | Bride's Party Earrings: Brittany Leslie | Bride's Party Shoes: Schutz | Bridesmaids' Hair + Makeup: Nicole Makeup And Hair | Cocktail Hour Venue: Brooklyn Bowl | Groom's Shoes: Common Projects | Rentals: Patina

When Simply Sarah is behind the camera, I know the wedding is going to be an instant fave of mine, and this Biltmore Estate celebration is no exception. We’re talking an all-out romantic fete planned by Mary Bell Events, from the warm atmosphere created with bistro lights and rustic wooden ceiling beams to the pretty pink and ivory florals designed by Flower Gallery of Asheville. Finish it off with this stunning couple and their sweet, sweet love…it just doesn’t get any better.

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From the bride… Nitesh and I met at a sports bar in Atlanta in December 2012. We were watching the SEC championship game between UGA and Alabama and were cheering for opposing teams. We had a mutual friend and ended up sitting beside each other during the game and chatted the entire time. Overlooking the occasional ‘Roll Tide’ cheer, we found that we had a lot in common and hit it off instantly. We went out on our first date several months later and dated for three years before moving to Tampa, Florida together.

We had a trip to Hawaii planned with Nitesh’s family over the 2016 Christmas holiday and were excited to get away for a relaxing vacation. Several friends were convinced that Nitesh and I would get engaged during the trip, but I had no indication that any proposal plans were in the works. We planned to spend the day before our flight to Hawaii with my family at my parent’s house to enjoy an early Christmas celebration. After breakfast and opening gifts, Nitesh shocked me by proposing to me on the back deck of my parents house, with my entire family peeking through the windows. It was so special to celebrate our engagement with my family and then to continue the celebrations with Nitesh’s family in Hawaii.

One of our favorite getaways during our relationship has been Asheville. It was one of our first trips together and a destination of several other long weekends over the years. We love the beautiful scenery, vibrant downtown, and the countless options for hiking, brewery tours, and delicious dining experiences. We decided very quickly that Asheville would be the perfect location for our wedding, and during our first wedding venue scouting mission, we chose Biltmore Deerpark as our location because it embodied the rustic, romantic setting that we envisioned for our wedding. Our intention was to create an authentic, casual atmosphere that reflected our view of Asheville. We chose ivory and blush as our color palette with accents of rose gold and used bistro lights along the wooden ceiling beams and candlelight to further enhance the romantic setting of the venue.

The favorite memory for both Nitesh and me was our ceremony in the courtyard of the venue. We were blessed with perfect weather and even had some chirping birds join in during our vows. It was such a special moment for us to have all of our family and friends in one place to witness our vows to each other.

During the planning process, one of the most important choices for me was a photographer for the day. After speaking with other brides, they emphasized the importance of having the best photographer to capture the day because photos would be the most lasting, tangible mementos. After scouring bridal magazines, online websites, and social media, I came across Simply Sarah Photography and immediately fell in love with the style and quality of their images. We were lucky enough to book Simply Sarah and could not be happier about our experience with Sarah and Will. From the communication prior to the wedding to the attention to detail and professionalism on the wedding day, it was perfect from start to finish. And one of the best parts of our experience was how friendly, relaxed, and comfortable Sarah and Will were! It was such a joy to have them be a part of our wedding day.

Photography: Elizabeth Lanier Photography | Event Planning: Mary Bell Events (Lisa & Leigh) | Floral Design: Flower Gallery | Wedding Dress: Augusta Jones | Cake: Biltmore Estate | Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Makeup: Blush By Wendy | Hair: Powder Me Pretty | DJ: DJ Kipper | Groom's Attire: Sebastian Grey | Venue: Biltmore Estate | Bridal Shop: The White Magnolia | Invitation: A&P Designs

Welcome to January. It’s the month when we wear more and go out less. We start researching slow cooker recipes. We note the temperatures – and our bank accounts – have dropped dramatically.

When all we want to do is stay in and cuddle, it’s easy to do nothing except watch 1,000 hours of Netflix. But, with a little creativity, this can be the month for you to get cozy together and connect on a deeper level.

Feel free to steal these at-home date ideas – or use them to inspire your own!

Find your favorite red wine and dark chocolate.
Grab a few different bottles of wine and various brands of dark chocolate. Then host your own wine and chocolate tasting at home! Take turns talking through which ones you like and why. Bonus: dark chocolate is an aphrodisiac!

Try a new recipe.
Research some recipes you both want to try, then work together in the kitchen. Don’t be afraid of a challenge! Learning a new skill together is a bonding experience – and you’ll probably laugh a lot along the way.

Play 21 questions.
Write 21 questions each and place them in a jar or vase. Then take turns drawing and answering questions. You’ll learn so much about each other! Careful what you ask – you might end up picking your own question!

Bake brownies in mugs.
Take your standard box brownies to another level! After mixing the batter, pour it into your favorite oversized mug and bake in the oven. Mugs are easier to hold, which makes cuddling with dessert a LOT easier. Don’t forget the ice cream on top!

Watch an old movie.
Pick a classic movie you haven’t seen in forever and rarely make time to watch. Gone with The Wind is a great option! Pop popcorn, pour your favorite candies into little bowls, and settle in for a cultured evening!

Plan and old-fashioned game night.
How long has it been since you played Monopoly? Grab a deck of cards. Hunt down those old board games you used to love. And let your competitive side dominate!

Drink spiked hot chocolate.
Hot chocolate is the best cure for cold weather! Add your favorite liquor (try this recipe) and curl up under a blanket. A few of these will no doubt heat up your date night…

Create a vision board.
Couples who craft together, laugh together, amirite? All you need are old magazines, scissors, glue sticks, and a small foam board. Cut out anything that inspires you or represents your goals for 2018 and paste them into a collage on your board. Then take turns describing your vision board and what your best life will look like this year! Talking about your dreams (and maybe even your future together) will give you a chance to support each other on a whole new level.

Eat breakfast in bed.
Who says breakfast is just for the morning? Whip up some waffles, fruit, bacon, and eggs – and end the day with a cozy meal under the sheets. I might substitute wine for my coffee…

Dance in your socks.
Find a playlist (bonus points for creating your own) and have your own dance party! Whether you’re trying some new salsa moves or slowing it down with some romantic requests, you’ll feel MUCH more connected than staring at a TV screen.

After these cozy date nights, you might just be wishing for another month of too-cold weather. Just kidding…bring on patio season!
Stay warm, friends.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Madeline Littrell is a corporate PR strategist and freelance writer. Born and raised in the South, she loves big hair, country music, and chicken fingers. Madeline lives in Dallas with her Sheltie puppy, Tennessee.

For some brides, keeping their guests entertained throughout the day is a top priority. When choosing a form of entertainment, a band or DJ is often the go-to when keeping your guests busy. Although some brides have always imagined a packed dance floor, there are more ways than one to keep people entertained.

Food Trucks
Everyone loves good food! There is no better way to make your guests happy than through their stomachs. Forgo the dinner and dancing all together and have a roundup of all of your favorite food trucks to give your guests a taste of everything!

Games
Not a dancer? That’s okay! Fill your reception space with all of your favorite games, from lawn games to card tables. Your guests are sure to let loose and have a great time. After all, you two are a safe bet!

Make your own…
While many guests are happy mingling, sipping on cocktails and basking in the happiness of the bride and groom, some will want to celebrate with style. Give them a chance to make their own flower crown or roll their own cigar! An interactive station will give keep your busy and give them the chance to create something fun to take home.

Performers
Although you and your new soon-to-be may not be dancers, that shouldn’t stop you from hiring performers! Whether it’s a comedian, aerial dancers or live event artist, give your guests something to talk about for years to come!

Dueling Pianos
Perhaps, one of our favorite forms of alternative entertainment is dueling pianos! This gives your guests the freedom to relax and enjoy the music or mingle against the sounds of the classics.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Maureen Cromer is a wedding planner, blogger and public relations professional from Baltimore Maryland, where she lives with her fiancé and kitten. When she isn’t working, you will find her running through the scenic trails of Maryland or sailing around the Wye River with her water-loving family.

Bruna is from Brazil, and David, from the UK. As fate would have it, their paths crossed, and so began their beautiful, long-distance love. When they decided to say, “I do,” they chose Tuscany for its warm, inviting, and intimate vibe reflective of their own relationship. A Very Beloved Wedding created a gorgeous setting that felt as if it had always belonged with natural textures, a neutral palette, and ample organic arrangements and greenery by A Very Beloved Bloom. Stefanie Kapra was there to capture the coming together of these two families, and it’s all so beautiful, we cannot stop looking at the gallery.

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From A Very Beloved Wedding… Bruna from Brazil and David from the UK met two years ago and started a beautiful long-distance relationship after being brought together due to “the strong laws of attraction”. (Quoting the groom here!) Both share the same love, and they complement each other due to their cultural and character differences in a very unique way. They have each other and their whole life in common, that is why their relationship is unusual, unique, amusing, and cozy. (Words from the couple) Both are very down to earth and aimed for a not-too-traditional or stiff wedding, but a familiar, Tuscan, sharing wedding with a simple, natural atmosphere.

We only used earthy, natural colors paired with lots of wood, greenery, and natural fabrics. We incorporated a lot of greens and plants and let the floral design and décor reflect the inconsistencies found in nature, including a lot of love for details. We used natural ropes for the bouquet and the name tags on the napkins, and we placed a big leaf underneath each glass charger plate. Wherever you looked, there was green and wood.

The lines of the furniture and décor underlined the simplicity we wanted to keep in the event. We decided on a family style dinner and to skip the traditional wedding cake. We incorporated Brazilian accents in the green color, the Bossa Nova music, and also the sweets (that replaced the wedding cake). These sweets are a Brazilian wedding tradition called Bem Casados. We wrapped them in a natural, earthy-tone paper with a natural rope to keep the design consistent instead of in the traditional white and shiny paper.

The overall mood was earthy, simple, natural, fun, romantic, warm, rhythmic, intimate, diverse, and happy. Bruna and David’s wedding is all about two families coming from very different cultures and finding something in common during this once in a lifetime experience.

Photography: Stefanie Kapra Photography | Event Planning + Design: A Very Beloved Wedding | Floral Design: A Very Beloved Bloom | Wedding Dress: Rue De Seine | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Topshop | Hair + Makeup: Lara Navarrini | Wedding Venue: Villa Le Fontanelle | Catering + Furniture Rentals: Roland's | Music: Firenze Classica | Music + Technical Support: Alma Project | Special Thanks: Tuscany for weddings

Wanderlust is built into the very fiber of this Saddlerock Ranch wedding captured by Birds of a Feather. Mixing elegant bohemian details with a pretty pastel color palette and the cutest use of globes we’ve ever encountered, see how Lady Liberty Events + Stella Bloom Designs crafted the prettiest alfresco setting all while paying homage to the Bride and Groom’s love of travel. Psst…don’t forget to press play on the film by Amari Productions.

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From Liberty Woodman of Lady Liberty Events… As a planner we have the incredible opportunity to meet so many beautiful couples. Lisa & Adil were no exception. They were not just adorable, loving, and sweet, but were gracias, calm, and knew what they wanted! To able to have worked with them throughout the process was a true pleasure for our team. When the connection between the planner(s) and the couple is harmonious, the end result is nothing short of magical. Lisa & Adil met in November 2014 in San Francisco. Adil is from Montreal, Canada and Lisa is from Norway. He was living the Silicon Valley life while she was doing masters. Lisa only planned on staying in San Francisco for maybe a year after her studies, but as fate connected their paths they never wanted to leave. They were inseparable from the first moment they met. They went on a vacation to Italy October 2016. They were driving all around from city to city. Starting in Rome and then going to Pisa, Cinque Terre, Florence, Bologna, Venice, Veneto and then ended in Milan. While they were in Florence, Adil told Lisa that they had to get up really early the next day. They woke up before dawn and drove to the countryside. When they arrived at the destination Adil woke Lisa up (she fell asleep on the drive there!) and they we were on a field filled with a bunch of hot air balloons. They went on a ride as the sun raised over the Tuscan vineyards. Adil proposed to Lisa, mid-flight, and when they landed back on the field he had a champagne breakfast waiting for them. I say this is PRETTY Romantic!!! Lisa always knew that she wanted a romantic intimate garden wedding. 90% of their guests were coming from Canada and across the pond, so it was important to them that they experienced a wedding they would not soon forget. Lisa has a gifted eye for details (a women after our own heart) and she knew what kind of vibe she wanted the wedding to have. She loves natural elements and knew she wanted some hints of bohemian vibes as well. We came up with a theme we call sophisticated bohemian. “ It’s everything I ever envisioned and more.

From the Bride…The color scheme consisted of White, Sage, Blush, and neutral colors with chic travel inspired details incorporated throughout. The ceremony was lush and romantic with wild pampas grass, white king protea, eucalyptus, white peonies and garden roses. Each seat had a lovely monogramed velum pouch filled with olive leaves to toss at the bride & groom once they were official. As guests arrived, Princess, our donkey, carried white parasols and hand fans for guests to grab to stay cool. The Escort Display– With a classy travel theme we did a stellar escort card display of acrylic luggage tags with marble details directing guests to their tables, with the flip side showcasing the quote “Prone to wander”. A sleek nude decal that read Love is a journey, along with eucalyptus and pampas grass accents on the corner completed this escort wall and provided a fun backdrop for guests to snap photos in front of. One of our FAVORITE details to design was the guest book display. Trying to incorporate a fun travel theme that didn’t feel kitschy, resulted in a chic wall styled with various globes flaunting fun travel related quotes and a nude decal above “Where to Next”. Custom designed postcards highlighting three places that Lisa & Adil wanted to visit were displayed encouraging guests to pick their favorite destination and write them a note to place In the mailbox. An oversized globe with their monogram and wedding date (in gold) was displayed for guests to sign as a keepsake for the years to come. As guests entered the dome area a wooden post was displayed with various locations and distances that guests had all traveled from to celebrate with Lisa & Adil. For the Reception We did a mix of textured linen draped round tables and rustic wood tables accented with hand dyed faded sage runners. Woven wicker chargers were topped with a sleek marble plate and each guests name was attached to a stem of silver dollar eucalyptus. Light sage stemmed wine glasses paired with clear stemless water glasses (both with gold trim) along with gold flatware and blush napkins created each place-setting. Hand painted white and gold petite globes with sage green numbers were displayed as the table numbers (a Lady Liberty DIY that came out fantastic!) while the table menus were gold spot treated outlining the evenings fare. Lush organically composed centerpieces over flowing with wildly romantic blooms, pampas grass, blush protea, and muted foliage added the perfect mix of sophistication and bohemian vibes to the tablescape. The sweet heart table was dressed with an overflowing display of blooms, protea and foliage with two large peacock chairs perfectly accented for the bride and groom. Overhead, dripping fairly lights and oversized white Moroccan lanterns provided a romantic glow to their table. From Lisa – “The planning process could not have been any smoother. With one of the best planners, who’s on top of everything and thinks about every single little detail, it made the process super easy for us. We were able to have fun with it and it was not stressful at all. We wish we could do it all over again. For all you brides our there…. Get a great planner/designer with lots of experience so you can have fun with the process and enjoy all the special moments. Adil was involved in entire planning process and attended all the meetings with Liberty & Team (sometimes we brought his laptop and worked a bit while the girls talked design). It was really great that he was so involved (without having too many opinions). That way it felt like our wedding and not just mine. The more challenging part of the process was combing the two different cultures (Adil is Indian) but we were able to compromise and included some Indian elements to the wedding in addition to have a Mehndi night the day before. Another part that was a bit harder was finding the perfect dress. I also wished my family and bridesmaids were around for the planning process”

With a team of fantastic vendors and a bride and groom that not only welcomed but encouraged the personalized touches (and trusted us to bring their wedding to life) the wedding was an evening that Lisa & Adil, along with their guests, are sure never to forget!

Photography: Birds of a Feather | Cinematography: Amari Productions | Event Planning: Lady Liberty Events | Floral Design: Stella Bloom Designs | Cake: The Butter End Cakery | Catering: Contemporary Catering and Event Production | DJ: Who's That DJ | Reverend: Reverend Joel Curtis | Ceremony Music: Jason Sulkin | Bride's Beauty: Fiore Beauty | Bridesmaid's Beauty: Girl Meets Bongga | Donkey: Jessie's Party Animals | Invitations & Day of Stationary: Prim & Pixie | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Photo Booth: Amuse Booth | Rentals: A Rental Connection | Shuttle Service: Riz Transportation | Specialty Rentals: borrowed BLU | Specialty Rentals: Found Rental Co.

Choosing the right Maid of Honor (MOH) can feel like a big deal. This girl will be with you through every step of your engagement. She’ll plan the bachelorette party, she’ll host the bridal party, she’ll cry with you at your wedding dress fitting, she’ll yell at the crazy cousin that shows up late to the wedding, she’ll make a speech so perfect you’ll laugh and cry at the reception, and she’ll support you no matter what. Here are a few scenarios you may find yourself in when choosing your MOH and what to do.

Scenario 1: You have a sister but you don’t want her to be your MOH
This can be a tough one. For whatever reason, you’ve decided your sister shouldn’t be your MOH. If you two have a close relationship, just be honest with her. Sit her down before you talk to anyone else. Make sure she knows you love her and that she holds a special place in your wedding. Give her the option to have an important role in your wedding but allow her to decide if she wants to still be involved. It’s not an easy discussion but if you’re gracious and understanding – she will lean that way as well.

Scenario 2: Your MOH had to bail and you have to find a new MOH
Life brings unexpected changes. Your MOH could have become pregnant on bed rest, she could have had a death in her family or moved abroad, or you two could have had a falling out. Either way, you may feel a slight wave of panic as you decide what to do next. Look to your current team of girls. Perhaps one of your bridesmaids is willing to fill the gap, or maybe you feel like you’re at a place where you have such a supportive team that you don’t need one friend or sister to be your MOH. Decide what’s best for you and be honest with your girls. If they love you they’ll just be happy to support you.

Scenario 3: You don’t have a girlfriend or sister who would be your MOH
There are a couple different directions you could go in with this one. You could pull royal move, and just have a group of little flower girls draped in big white dresses around you. That’s such a fun way to include all the little girls in your life, plus you get to be the center of attention as the Bride/Queen that you are. A second route you could take is to have your brother or best guy friend by your Man of Honor, as long as your future spouse is cool with it. Why not!? I have a serious feeling that will be a future trend.

Finding your MOH can feel tough in the different scenarios that life throws at you. Remember that what makes you and your future spouse comfortable and happy in the end is all that matters.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Kylie Thompson is a freelance writer, blogger and marketing professional from Grand Rapids Michigan, where she resides with her husband and golden retriever. 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.

When Julie Paisley and Lauren Fair joined up together to create a vow renewal shoot for their workshop in the South of France they knew exactly what they wanted. A gorgeous open-air chapel, never-ending greenery and florals, and a dress that we can’t stop dreaming of wearing. But what they couldn’t plan for was the weather… but Mother Nature surpassed all hopes and then some. Not only did she hold back raindrops until the al fresco ceremony could be completed but she delivered a double rainbow to end this magical day. Does it get any better than this!?

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From Lauren Fair… A romantic chateau in the south of France in the summer was the perfect backdrop for this sweet vow renewal. Le Domaine de Sarson’s beautifully ruined open-air chapel set the scene for the vows, while Oleander Curated created a living greenery installation up the stone walls. Guests tossed lavender seeds as Julie and Shane recessed back down the aisle, just avoiding the first raindrops! We all took shelter under the covered porches at Domaine de Sarson, keeping an eye on the sky – and we were rewarded with the most stunning double rainbow any of us had ever seen!!

Photography: Lauren Fair Photography | Photography: Julie Paisley Photography | Event Design: Oleander | Floral Design: Oleander | Wedding Dress: Claire La Faye | Hair + Makeup: Janelle on Location | Suit: Banana Republic | Venue: Domaine De Sarson | Paper Goods + Calligraphy: Pretty In Ink Shop | Ribbons: Honey Silks And Company | Workshop Co-Hosts: Lauren Fair + Julie Paisley

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This couple will tell you, your vendor team absolutely makes your wedding day, and when you assemble an all-star group that understands your vision, you’re guaranteed a celebration that brings to life your unique love story and style. Enter Honey and Cinnamon Italian Wedding Planner, Gianluca and Mary Adovasio, La Rosa Canina, and more, who brought Clarissa and David’s dream of an intimate destination wedding in Tuscany to life in a day so gorgeous, we could weep.

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From Honey and Cinnamon Italian Wedding Planner… When Clarissa and David got in touch with me, and the only thing they knew is that they wanted to get married in a Catholic church in Italy, no matter if that meant they only had the closest family members in attendance or not. Beauty and elegance were the key words for their wedding day. The process of researching the perfect venue and best vendors for their event was one of the most pleasant and smooth I have ever had in my career. They were the perfect couple, in love with beautiful, quality things no matter how much they cost. They resonated with my business philosophy: “high level vendors for a top quality result”. The relationship with them was so amazing, we were able to organize everything in a few months without encountering moments of indecisions or complaint.

Clarissa was always so enthusiastic about everything I sugeested to her since we have the same taste. She loves every hue of pink so this, together with touches of grey, was the cornerstone of the palette I picked for the wedding, which was present in all the little details from the bridesmaids dresses and flowers to the ribbons and shoes.

I found the perfect place for their celebration – Monteverdi Tuscany – a real gem in the heart of Tuscany which combines natural materials with an elegant setting and impeccable service, suitable for intimate weddings. There was a little Roman Church in the hamlet. Clarissa and Davice were enthusiastic because it was exactly the place they were imagining.

The wedding day was filled with so many emotions, with the enthusiasm of a bride and a groom that were completely relaxed and trusted me so much, it put me in the best mood ever and allowed me to create something unique and special for them. After their wedding celebration, Clarissa, David, and their guests enjoyed cocktails on the terrace of the library bar followed by an elegant and marvelous dinner in the garden of their private villa.

From the bride… David and I were open-minded and flexible when planning our wedding. We knew we wanted an intimate event where our family and friends could relax and enjoy the weekend. Once we chose our dream destination (Italy!), we found the perfect wedding planner who was able to connect with us and seamlessly execute our vision of a classy and beautiful celebration!

Working with Federica and her five-star team was the best planning decision we made. She was invaluable to our planning process as she could really articulate our vibe, down to the most minor details! She enabled us to choose our venue and vendors from abroad with confidence and ease! Despite never meeting in person before the wedding, we were thrilled with our photographers, Gianluca Adovasio and his wife, Mary.

We are so grateful for the amazing work of each and every one of our vendors. and we couldn’t be happier with how our unforgettable destination wedding came together.

Photography: Gianluca And Mary Adovasio | Floral Design: La Rosa Canina | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Makeup: Daniela Delia | Calligraphy: Seniman Calligraphy | Venue: Monteverdi Tuscany | Event Planning + Styling: Federica Beni | Silk + Ribbon : Tono Co | Watercolor: Shhh My Darling

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Bridesmaid dress styles are still ever changing and evolving. If you’re newly engaged or just beginning your wedding planning, and are concerned about pleasing all of your girls, have no fear! I’ve outlined all the top bridesmaid dress trends for 2018. And rest easy that they’re not too over the top, so your bridal party can definitely wear them again!

Color: Nostalgic Pink
The on-trend color for bridesmaids dresses this season has been dubbed ‘Nostalgia Pink’ and it’s definitely the new blush. A bit darker than blush with more of a purple hue, it translates a bit deeper than its more feminine and safe pink counterpart. It may work better on a variety of skin tones as well due to the richer, jewel tone.

One-Shoulder
A blast from the early 2000’s, one-shoulder is making a come back! Whether it is in the form of DIY fabric tie’s across the bodice or a solid strap, this silhouette can be really flattering on women with wider shoulders, as it creates the illusion of a tinier waist and hour-glass figure.

Flowy Tiers
We’ve been seeing this trend in ready-to-wear as well as in formal gowns, but that’s probably because it’s a keeper! The flowy tiers can take the form of off-the-shoulder floaty sleeves, or a soft overlay on a bodice, and it can soften any look for a garden or outdoor wedding.

Two-Piece
One of my favorite trends because it’s just so versatile! The two-piece trend is growing more popular in bridal gowns and has now spread to the bridesmaids as well. Order your girls a few skirts and tops, keep it all uniform or mix and match according to personal style and body-type, and you’ve got a killer bridal party look!

Slits
For a bit more of a relaxed, sultry wedding vibe your girls could embrace this trend! Think of it as a nice compromise between long and short gowns, where your ladies can show off their shoes (and a little leg!) This is especially appealing for beach wedding venues where it can be difficult to walk in long dresses and provides a bit of ventilation for summer events!

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Goli Parvinian is a bridal enthusiast and masters student living in Melbourne, Australia. Over the past few years, she has worked for bridal brands in her hometown of Chicago, New Zealand and New York City. You can typically find her in a cafe, face-timing her nieces or out on a long run.

Take it from us, your registry isn’t just for gorgeous china and luxe guest towels – it needs some high-tech lovin’, too. Because nothing makes your newlywed life easier than embracing smart home tools that can rid your life of everyday stress. Think energy efficient thermometers, amazing appliances that connect to your smart phone (!) and vacuums that vacuum without your help. It’s a whole new world out there, you guys – embrace it.

15 High Tech Goodies Your Registry Can Not Be Without

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15 High Tech Goodies Your Registry Can Not Be Without

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The home of blogger Leslie of The Leslie Style is the stuff of instagram dreams with that gorgeous white kitchen at the center. And when it’s all decked out for Valentine’s Day? Umm, consider our minds officially blown. Conversation hearts, heart decals and cake are just a few of the tricks up Leslie’s sleeve. Tour her modern abode made even prettier for love day festivities with images by Vicki Bartel.

From Leslie… This shoot was all about finding outside-the-box ways to bring in tons of hearts! 6lbs of candy hearts are tied in all over the house in terrarium flower arrangements and then also on the table and kitchen island as confetti. I always try to have a mix of modern elements juxtaposed against vintage. I feel like the candy hearts in the terrariums with roses and orchids really feel modern and nostalgic at the same time. 

My signature color scheme of pink, mint, and blue is in full effect through linens, art work, and florals. The blue floral runners were a DIY and made by cutting up a table cloth, I made the remaining fabric into dish towels and napkins to pull the color into other areas in our home.

Cupcakes and a naked cake act as centerpieces on the table and each guest has a super fun Kate Spade dish towel as their napkin, with a dessert idiom on them, as well as a personalized macaron as a place card. 

I made the patio doors into a quick DIY “Graffiti backdrop” by covering them in painted hearts. 

A super fun and affordable detail are the wall decals that I put on the kitchen hood vent.  

My favorite part of the party was how excited the kids got over seeing all the candy on display. I have two little girls, so having lots of different candy displayed on the table added so much whimsy to the party, especially when the kids who attended were given bags to collect the candy to take home at the end. 

From the Floral Design House… My inspiration was Leslie’s fabulous collection of kilim rugs & runners, the colors are to die for! Tiny clusters of the most amazing carnations (yes I said the “C” word) brought in the perfect shade of lavender and pink, they resembled little scoops of ice cream. Of course it wouldn’t be Valentines day without roses, a combination of hot pink spray roses and long stem red were used throughout the floral designs, but the icing on cake those Magenta Phalaenopsis orchids! The perfect color to tie it all together.

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Best Ever Valentine's Treats

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Best Ever Valentine's Treats

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Photographer: Vicki Bartel | Desserts: Shelby’s Sweet Shoppe | Floral Design House: CJH Florals | Girls Dresses: Aggie and Francois | Design and Home of: The Leslie Style