Style Me Pretty: Wedding Blog for the Style-Obsessed Bride

Orange Florals Are Endless At This English Countryside Inspired Wedding

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]White, orange, pink, yellow, green[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]This formal wedding at the Country Club of Detroit brought to life a unique garden party, inspired by the concept of English countryside estates. The day offered a timeless feeling, as the sweet colors of sky blues and bright oranges wove throughout their colorstory. Hailing from Detroit, Christine wanted to be sure they incorporated historical elements of the city in their wedding day. They chose to hold a traditional Catholic ceremony at a prominent downtown cathedral. The Neo-Gothic style architecture provided elegantly checkered marble tiles for the procession, as well as plenty of spaces for the couple to pose for photos afterward. A simple champagne tower kicked off the reception atop a blue tablecloth. Whimsical floral designs cascaded along tables, walkways, and around the entrance to the reception tent in a sea of orange. The evening felt airy and bright, with linens, chairs, and decor all working together in neutral cream tones that felt reminiscent of an afternoon in the English countryside. [/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]John and Christine first saw each other from across the bar on a night out in Chicago. The two struck up a conversation, as they shouted over the house music. That evening they exchanged numbers to set up their first official date a few weeks later. As their relationship blossomed, John and Christine set off for a vacation to Miami, a respite from Chicago winters. John proposed during that trip on the beach at sunset.[/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Christine tried on many, many wedding dresses in Chicago, New York City, and Michigan but finally decided to purchase the last wedding dress she tried on at Ultimate Bride in Chicago during a Carolina Herrera trunk show. “It was so hard to decide on a style – every dress was so beautiful! The Carolina Herrera dress design and fabric were classic, with a slight twist of modern elegance.”[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Christine’s bridesmaids wore mismatched, blush gowns from Jenny Yoo.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Groom (John): Black tuxedo and white dinner jacket from Suit Supply in Chicago; Suit Supply in Gold Coast has been a favorite of the bride and groom for many suits and special attire over the years!

John’s father, Mike, wore a white dinner at the wedding to John’s mother, Annamerie, so it was very special that John wore a white dinner jacket to the wedding reception.[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Guests were served a Michigan salad featuring fresh fruits, walnuts, and grilled chicken breast with raspberry vinaigrette. For a meal, guests had the option of seared filet mignon, honey & soy glazed halibut, or roasted cauliflower steak. Christine and John also toasted their guests with a champagne tower. After dinner, they served espresso martinis.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]”We were inspired by the grounds at the Country Club of Detroit, the gardens and the greenery that make the outdoors so beautiful. Christine and John loved the idea of a romantic, garden, whimsical, and classic celebration outdoors. They drew inspiration from many English countryside/estate weddings and classic, timeless weddings they’ve seen previously.

Christine is from Grosse Pointe, MI, and wanted to incorporate historical Detroit elements into the wedding celebrations, which included the cathedral, vintage car, venue, welcome party venue, rehearsal dinner venue, and more. The flowers were INCREDIBLE and created the perfect romantic, warm, garden-style ambiance that was from the bride and groom’s dreams.”[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Christine and John served a tiered vanilla cake with lemon and raspberry mousse. The cake was decorated with fresh flowers and the couple’s monogram. The cake was provided by the Country Club of Detroit.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]First Dance Song: Always Remember You This Way (Lady Gaga, A Star is Born)[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Christine and John love the outdoors and were passionate about having an outdoor, tented wedding in Michigan. Michigan is beautiful in the summer, and the couple was thrilled to host their guests at the wedding reception during the golden hours of summer.

“There was a little rain on the wedding day, which we agreed was necessary for good luck! The rain created a BEAUTIFUL sunset with golden, romantic colors that made the evening even more special!”[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]”We made our own welcome bags for our out-of-town guests that included some special items native to Detroit, MI! We dropped all of the bags off at each of the hotels our out-of-town guests were staying at in Detroit, MI!
o Beige tote bag (Essential Screen Printing, Detroit) w/ Jade Social monogram
o Bag tags from Minted, with monogram from Jade Social
o Welcome Bag contents: Detroit Cookie Company cookies, Better Made chips, Kar’s Trail Mix, monogrammed hand sanitizers (Minted), water bottles, little bags with Liquid IV and Advil packets
o Custom Wedding Weekend Details Cards from Esty (details about the welcome party, wedding ceremony, transportation, reception, after party, etc.)”[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]”We decided to have a very large, 250-person wedding so that we could have all our family and friends from Chicago, Grosse Pointe and the Detroit area (Christine has a very large Irish Catholic Family from Grosse Pointe, MI!), California to New York, England, and beyond! It meant so much to have our friends and family with us on our wedding day, and we so appreciated everyone traveling to Michigan from across the Atlantic and from coast to coast to celebrate!”[/field]
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BBJ La Tavola

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Inquisited

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A Romantic Greenhouse Wedding in Spring That Celebrates Color

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Spring pastels: sage green, shades of pink from light blush to brighter pops, dusty blue, with some oranges, reds and yellows incorporated into the florals[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]We spent 21 months planning the wedding weekend of our dreams in Columbus, Ohio with the help of our families, friends, and amazing wedding planning team at Aisle & Co. Early on in the planning process, we were encouraged by our wedding planning team to define our focus. Zach and I continually remarked to each other how amazing it was that we had an opportunity to mesh all of our favorite people together in one room for a celebration, which helped us to define our focus of the weekend as embracing the special time not only as a couple, but with all of our favorite people.

The wedding day started for each of us at our respective childhood homes where we got ready with our wedding party and family. I did a first look with my bridesmaids and high school best friends and danced to all of our favorite throwback tunes, including Taylor Swift, throughout the morning. I got to do a first look with my dad, who actually had his own surprise for me! He ordered a custom jacket with a variety of pictures from my childhood and Zach’s proposal which was the sweetest surprise! Zach spent time with his family and groomsmen in the morning enjoying New Glarus Spotted Cow Beer and lots of laughs. It even included a cute “game over” cake!

We then met at the venue at Jorgensen Farms Oak Grove for a first look together and some photographs of Zach and I and our wedding party. One of my favorite times during the wedding day was in the groom suite after our first look and photographs with our wedding party when we all got to spend time together before the ceremony. Pastor Steve came in and said a prayer with us all to set the tone of the ceremony ahead.

The ceremony was beautiful, felt very intimate, and even included our fur baby, Milo. We wrote our own vows for each other, which was initially very scary, but also a special way to share our love with each other in front of all of our favorite people. Zach and I both walked out of the ceremony and spent a few minutes by ourselves which was a wonderful way to reflect on the gravity of the ceremony and commitment.

Zach and I felt so much love the entire day and really felt like we got to share the special day with each other and our guests during the reception. We had a stunning hand painted 3 tier cake that was a show stopper! We got to enjoy the night dancing with all of our friends and family thanks to the wonderful music/entertainment from DJ Tommy Nutter. We ended the night with a private last dance allowing us to really take a moment to take in the incredible day. [/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]We first met at Denison University in 2014 at the Kappa Alpha Theta formal. Though our connection was instant, we did not start dating until 8 months later. We did rekindle the spark 8 months later after spending lots of time in the athletic training room with our respective injuries during soccer and football season. Zach asked Logan on a date to a local sushi restaurant and we saw quite possibly the worst first date movie ever, Gone Girl, which was Logan’s choice. Zach was thankfully able to move past that first date movie choice and after a short while, we decided to make things official. After a semester abroad and several summers of long distance it was apparent that our relationship was going to go the distance.

Since we started dating, we have lived in Granville, Columbus, and recently bought a house in Saint Louis. We share a love of good food, skiing, and Columbus sports (Go Bucks!). Most of all, we share a love of spending time with close friends and families and playing with our fur baby, Milo. [/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Essence of Australia dress purchased from White Traditions Bridal. Illusion top with a delicate leaf lace pattern cascading down the light and airy tulle skirt.
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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]With each bridesmaid in their own silhoutte, yet all in the same hue, they were able to stay cohesive yet choose their own BHLDN style. [/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Signature drinks: NEGRONI (gin, sweet vermouth, aperol) & APEROL SPRITZ (aperol, prosecco, club soda)

For supper, guests had their choice of short rib, salmon or a vegetarian option. Late night snacks included Poutine and Mott’s Clamato (Canadian favorites). [/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]With the ceremony space being a greenhouse, the florals had to shine! The aisle was lined with arrangements at the end of each row in soft pinks, ivory and light green. The altar featured a combination of two arrangements at ground level, greenery and blooms crawling up the backdrop of windows and a hanging installation that together made for the most beautiful backdrop that framed the couple as they said their vows. As guests entered and exited the ceremony space, they also walked through a doorway draped with cascading blooms. This floral focused vibe was carried through to cocktail hour with acrylic signage that featured florals. The reception space featured a combination of a long, wooden estate table with round tables topped with neutral linens. Along with the same, cheery springy arrangements that were featured in the ceremony space, the centerpieces featured pressed flower candles. These details in combination with the hand painted floral wedding cake made for a design that did the greenhouse venue justice! [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]We had a stunning hand painted 3 tier cake that was a show stopper![/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]One detail we were adamant about including in the wedding was a personalized note to every one of our guests. We included this personalized letter as the name tag at each dinner spot. With the wedding being a 200+ person wedding, we wanted to make sure each person knew how special they were to us and how special it meant to have them there with us that day. I think this might have been the biggest hit of the entire wedding!![/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]A few of our favorite details from the cocktail hour included the customized “P” ice cubes in the signature negroni, the edible flowers in the aperol spritz signature drink, the custom Milo napkins, the “Pewitts” neon sign, the custom dried flower seating chart and signage, and the indoor/outdoor aspect of our venue.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]The wedding weekend started off with a golf tournament for the wedding party and some close friends and family and was a great way to kick off the weekend! Everybody got to know each other a bit and spend time at the beautiful Double Eagle Golf Club in Galena, OH. There was a Zach and Logan trivia game with a question on each of the 9 holes and even some fun prizes involved! Later that night we got together for a welcome party at New Albany Country Club that was organized by the Pewitt Family. It was a wonderful way to chat with guests and spend time with our family and friends before the big day.

The day after our wedding, everybody reconvened at my parents’ house for a goodbye event, which was an Ohio State Football watch party in true Columbus, OH fashion. People enjoyed some local Columbus food staples, beer, and even the Caesar (Canadian bloody mary) which was provided as the wedding favor. It was such a special weekend![/field]
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THIS Is What an Edgy, Fashion Forward, Garden Wedding Looks Like!

Now this is a bride who isn’t afraid to be bold and be totally and completely herself! (You go, girl!) With planning help from Violet and Bone, this gorgeous bride turned her edgy, fashion-forward garden wedding dream into a reality! From the black floral bridesmaids dresses to the 7-tier aged patina cake the bride designed herself – there’s personality oozing from every corner of their special day. Trust us, you’re going to want to spend some extra time on this stunning full gallery captured by Sally Pinera!

Words by the Bride… We got married at Paramour Estate. We chose it because we felt it the most unique, magical, fashionable place that we and our guest would never forget without having to do destination. I wanted something to fit with my theme and had a fashion forward garden in my mind the whole time. October + edgy dark mansion+high fashion= a great recipe to me. The moment we saw it ,we didn’t need to look anywhere else. It was a wrap! My dress was by Galia Lahav, I had seen it before I tried it on, when I put it on it was perfect and beading felt substantial,The dress is made to suck you in so I didn’t work out or do anything. Great excuse to have a dress like this. It was my garden dream dress. The fabric was lightweight and airy which I loved because I wanted to be able to get around with somewhat ease. I went to 6 other bridal stores, I loved that I got to say yes to the dress with the designer and add on custom sleeves that I was inspired from another dress to mash it up. It also didn’t hurt that it was Couture and made to my measurements because I stand at only 4’9.

For the cake design I drew up an idea for an aged patina cake, with bas relief working its way up the cake with birds, flowers, and such, I had gold snakes, butterflies weaving its way through with a modern sugar flower design. Grace and Honey Cakes did an amazing job bringing my moody whimsical garden cake to life. There was a point I didn’t think anyone could really do what I was asking for in area and I would have to have one brought in from out of town or state. I should note that I didn’t necessarily want a cake and was going to opt for something smaller, but my mom insisted the cake needs to be over the top like everything else and that people come to weddings to see and eat cake. I also don’t like cake and her cake was wildly tasty. Both us and of our families ate the cake for a week straight after the wedding. I had rectangular tables with velvet table cloths from La Tavola.

All tabletop was from Casa De Perrin, and I actually had napkin rings on the head table of 40 people with gold butterflies, snacks and others that I had purchased before. I thought it would make it look over the top. The round tables were wood with a pedestal to amp up the garden theme. I used gorgeous French garden style chandeliers. Table numbers were thick clear acrylic and I had them made in Australia by sketch and etch creative. I had ikebena style flowers mixed in on the tables,. Everything was funky fresh and popping! I wanted everyone to just be floored and for people to notice the amount of details that I put in from beginning to end. I considered the reception Act 2 of my theatre play, with black chairs and a funky electric mix of plates. There were bowls of fruit on the tables, sort of inspired by still life as well oral the round wood garden tables.

The theme and mood of our wedding was a fashion forward garden theme, eclectic, designer focused, moody, classic, edgy all rolled into one. I decided on the theme based on making a story that would best fit with the house. I deemed US me and my husband the butterflies in this sort of menacing world with all these other things you would find in a garden like snakes, birds, insects, and such. Basically we were the light in the darkness. I make up stories for things. Im a big dork. I was a theatre major that studied scenic design and my mother was an interior decorator. I love designing. I would say Im obsessed.

For the color palette I wanted it to be girly, yet also with mood and my signature in life is also black and gold. Anyone who knows me knows I love black and gold together and I think that tones down the girly aspect adding in that factor. I worked out color tones using color generators to create the floral story and overall vibe.

Our wedding was special because of the magical location overlooking downtown LA, the Hollywood sign and Griffith Observatory. Our guest got the chance to to experience the history and special magical tucked away place that they’ve never even heard of. Also my husband and family beaming with pride of how wonderful everything ended up turning out. That made it special for us all and we all wish we could do it over again. We had so much fun. Also we got to stay at the Paramour and so did my family and we woke up and had breakfast the next morning by the pool. That was a nice touch to extend that wonderful day.

A Sonoma Wedding Inspired by The Little Prince

Nestled in the enchanting landscape of Sonoma, a captivating celebration awaits you inspired by the ethereal world of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s famed story, “The Little Prince.” Drawing upon the book’s whimsical essence, Manna Sun Events designed and planned a wedding that embraces a neutral color palette, allowing the beauty of the surroundings to take center stage. Fantastical floral design by Mandy’s Garden Floral Design helps bring the love story to life. Every cherished moment of this extraordinary event is captured by gifted photographer,Ashley Noelle Edwards whose imagery perfectly captures the essence of love and art. See it all inside the full gallery.

From Manna Sun Events… A neutral color palette of sandshell, peared ivory and a hint of greenery and soft pink set the scene for this fairytale wedding. After planning and designing by Manna Sun Events team for 8 months, the wedding dream finally came true on 22nd Mar, 2022 at Viansa Sonoma Winery, CA, along with the sheer professionalism from photographer Ashley Noelle Edwards and florist Mandy’s Garden Floral Design. Taking inspirations from the most translated book Le Petit Prince and the artistic sensitivity of Wabi Sabi, let’s take a closer look at how refined and sophisticated all the artful sentiments from this dreamy wedding are. The bold yet sophisticated fusion of Tuscany style and Wabi-sabi concept.

Set atop a hill overlooking the Valley of the Moon and resembling a Tuscan Villa, the Viansa Sonoma Winery embraces us with Tuscan aesthetics, ranging from the trellis laced with thriving grapevines to the intimate fountain courtyard which is enclosed by ivy-clad walls and shaded by silvery olive trees. Taking advantage of the these distinctive features, we unhesitatingly chose to incorporate the aesthetics of Wabi-sabi. The bouquets and boutonnieres, arranged by Mandy’s Garden Floral Design, are in mostly white and green colors and hints of pearled ivory and soft pink colors, while the fluffy dancing blooms and branches add to the Ikebana style. The dreamy ceremony scene, swathed in a palette of tan, sandshell, powder pink, and greenery, undoubtedly delights our eyes and steals our breath away through its rustic vibe and Tuscan charm. Also, it looks so organic and decent when setting up the rustic wooden table and sweetheart chairs with wispy and minimalism floral arrangements, which is also a key principle of Ikebana of arranging things in silence to create harmony. The sign-in area is another place we can’t get enough from, where two large ivory color foam boards with Wabi Sabi style are standing. The foam boards, designed and provided by Inkinity Studio, have sea wave patterns on the surface, nodding to the Japanese Ukiyo-e masterpieces. Adorned with Ikebana style and organic floral arrangements, the calligraphy of quotes in French undoubtedly adds to the romantic flares and sophisticated vibes. Moreover, being adorned with Wabi Sabi patterns, sydney papers and sugar flowers, the bespoke wedding cake from Trizia Cake Artistry is finished with a touch of the Japanese philosophy about the acceptance of transience and imperfection. A fairy tale dream comes true

As one of the favorite books for the newlywed, The Little Prince undoubtedly became one of the themes of the wedding. The couple’s understanding of The Little Prince can be felt throughout the whole wedding. We are totally smitten by the way how the beautiful story is incorporated into the invitation set by Inkinity Studio, creating aesthetics of Wabi-Sabi and romance through neutral tones and artistic hand sketches. The whimsical combination of The Little Prince and Wabi-sabi just reflects the true meaning of love, which could be imperfect but can be deeply felt by heart. Besides,
the signage, on which The Little Prince has been transferred and conveyed through constellation and galaxy effects, greatly enhance the uniqueness of the wedding.

This Couple Brings Nashville to the Sierras for a Stunning Destination Wedding Weekend

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Contrasting bright whites and black, layered with complex neutrals (cream, ecru and patina) and fresh garden greens.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]The couple envisioned a timeless and classic event, bringing together their loved ones from across the country to celebrate their wedding in a place that was very special to the bride’s family. For an overall design, they envisioned a classic wedding with modern touchpoints, reflective of a very “restoration hardware” inspired wedding.
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Alex selected a stunning Gahlia Lahav gown, with a plunging neckline and floral lace-applique accents. Following the ceremony, she elected for a “second look” that included the addition of flirty sleeves that tied in a bow on her shoulders.
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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Bridesmaids wore custom-designed fitted gowns in a silvery satin fabric, from Nashville local designer Olia Zavozina. The matching gowns each a cowl-back accent for added drama. [/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Stephen wore a custom black Hugo Boss suit with a bow tie, while his groomsmen each wore black neckties.
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]The couple selected seasonal bites that provided their guests a sense of farm-fresh California cuisine. As former residents of the Napa Valley, wine was brought in from wine collector Dad’s personal at-home cellar. The couple even staged a wine-tasting bar during cocktails for guests to sample from! [/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]We wanted to incorporate a highly contrasting color palette, softened by the addition of layered neutrals and metallics. With such a dramatic mountain view at the ceremony, we elected to keep floral refined and minimal, utilizing a grounded floral installation and a few urn arrangements to frame the back row of black infinity chairs. The couple selected a tabletop design that featured tonal velvet linens, which counterbalanced the cool clear glass and silver at each place setting. A black and white dance floor was flanked with lounge vignettes in the same contrasting palette. Robust floral arrangements in whites, creams and ivories, accented with lush greens, pulled the spaces together in a polished fashion, transforming the summer resort into a stylish and modern garden.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]A cake topper featuring the couple’s two pups, sat on top of three tiers of a perfect late summer cake – vanilla sponge cake, with lemon filling and cream cheese icing. [/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]The couple’s current residence in Tennessee inspired them to bring out Three Lane, a favorite local band, to California to give their guests a taste of Nashville culture. A first dance rendition of Darius Rucker’s “If I Told You” opened the dance floor, where guests danced the night away to renditions of their favorite country hits.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Guests found their seating assignments by way of custom-created labels displaying each guest’s name and table assignment, affixed to one of several varying candles that matched out color palette. We even ensured that the candle scent being used fit the overall design concept and feel on the “woodsier” side. After the wedding guests could light the candle at home and be reminded of their fond memories from Alex and Stephen’s special day.
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BBJ La Tavola

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Classic Black And White Tented Wedding Filled With Style

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

The wedding colors were black and white.

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The wedding began with an intimate ceremony at The Inn At St. John’s. Afterward, the sunshine was beaming down as we captured their bride and groom portraits on the beautiful grounds. I couldn’t get over how beautiful the tree blossoms were in the courtyard! Erin and Tanner also had an awesome vintage Rolls Royce that transported the bride and her parents to the ceremony. Parked outside, we could take amazing portraits with it after the ceremony. From there, we headed to Erin’s aunt’s property, where there was a stunning, clear-top tent to host their celebration of love. Nothing beats a greatly executed tent wedding on a private residence. At first, Erin and Tanner had originally planned their entire reception at The Inn At St. John’s but shifted gears a few months before to this gorgeous setup. I think their backup plan was even better than the original! I was in awe when we arrived at the tented reception—everything about Erin and Tanner’s classic black and white wedding exuded style.

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Tanner and Erin got engaged on Christmas Eve in Ann Arbor, where they met and went to school. It was the perfect holiday engagement!

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The bride wore a gorgeous satin ballgownL’Amour Bridal wedding gown. It was complete with an open V back with the perfect statement back bow. The long train was perfect for the St. John’s Inn ceremony. Bustled for the reception, it was just as fabulous. Erin’s look was complete with a romantic half-up half-down wedding hairstyle that featured classic pearl accents.

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The bridesmaids wore classy black dresses from Kennedy Blue. They were complimenting silhouettes, with varied necklines.

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The groom and groomsmen wore classic black tuxedos from State & Liberty.

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Chowhound provided a delicious dinner that guests couldn’t get enough of.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Erin and Tanner chose to have a classic black and white wedding reception. Erin and Tanner’s elegant florals and decor featured all white florals with chic candle accents and acrylic table numbers. The black and white dance floor was a focal point under the large white tent. I love that the tent had skylights to let in natural light on all sides.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Iversen’s Bakery provided a 3-three tier classic white wedding cake with greenery accents. It was as tasty as it was beautiful!

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]The day began at Erin’s childhood home with her fur baby by her side. Her adorable companion Yoshi was a part of the day’s festivities all morning. Both the bride’s mother and grandmother were there to help her get ready. It was so sweet to experience multiple generations in one room together celebrating. Erin and her grandma have a very special bond. I found myself getting a little emotional at one point witnessing their love for one another![/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]The reception took place at the bride’s aunt’s home.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]Erin and Tanner’s wedding made use of Erin’s grandmother’s ring bearer pillow, which is 60+ years old.[/field]
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Breanne Rochelle Photography

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A Coastal-Chic Newport, Rhode Island Celebration

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Sea Blue, Blush, Peach, Cream, Taupe[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Surrounded by 200 friends and family members as the sun dipped low along the quiet beach, two Westwood High School sweethearts celebrated their 12 year anniversary by getting married on a gorgeous summer day at Newport Beach House.

World-renowned photographer, Lauren Fair, captured all of the glorious details of the day and there were so many amazing details telling the complete story of this long love affair.

From a watercolor print of Frankie (touting the couple’s signature cocktails) to custom glass wine tags (engraved with each guest’s name,) to Del’s Lemonade and Ben and Jerry’s (celebrating the couple’s favorite New England food traditions) and an epic karaoke dance party reception (featuring the groom on guitar) – every amazing detail of the day reflected this fun couple.[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]Mike proposed at Sandy Neck Beach on Cape Cod. I had been wanting to have a beach fire there for years, but we never got around to it. One weekend when we had Mike’s parents down at my parents house we decided to split off from the parents to have a beach fire. Mike picked up pizza from one of my favorite places on the cape, The Brown jug, and had the ring and a bottle of Veuve Clicquot in the beach bag. We set up our fire and enjoyed the pizza while we waited for sunset. When the sun started setting, Mike got up and dropped to one knee asking me to marry him. We celebrated with champagne and surprised our parents when we got back from the beach![/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Wedding Gown – Designer: Vera Wang which is the same designer my prom dress was when I went with Mike![/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Bridesmaids Dresses – Dessy[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Groom & Groomsmen Attire – Men’s Wearhouse[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]This wedding featured a celebration of the pair’s favorite New England food traditions with Del’s Lemonade served at the ceremony, a seafood display at cocktail hour, and Ben and Jerry’s served at the reception.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The decor throughout the day emphasized creamy neutral florals, natural wood accents, and pops of peach and pink tones to add warmth to the beachy vibes.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Our cake was funfetti![/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]Jennifer and Michael, joined by their beloved pup, Frankie, were married by Jennifer’s brother, Joey, in a deeply personal ceremony that celebrated 12 years of friendship, love and memories.

We incorporated the “breaking of the glass” into the ceremony to celebrate Mike’s Jewish heritage, and the “ringing of the bells” to honor Jen’s Irish side.

Groom & Groom party: processional: Sunday Morning – Maroon 5
Bridal Party Processional Song: Stay with Me – Sam Smith
Bride’s Processional Song: Perfect – Ed Sheeran
Recessional Song: Signed, Sealed, Delivered – Stevie Wonder
Ceremony music was played on the keyboard by our brother-in-law. the exit song
Recessional was played by brother-in-law and sang by Kim Cherry (lead singer of Legends of Summer).[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]We exchanged private vows on the beach after the ceremony. Its sound was not recorded so it was very private and intimate moment for us to share before going into the reception and not having another private moment together for the rest of the day/night.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Everything that could be personalized about the day was personalized. I wanted the wedding to feel like us and not just a curated event.
– The napkins were customized with custom watercolor images of our dog, Frankie
– The table numbers were watercolor paintings of our favorite places around the world that we’ve traveled to/have meaning to us. These were painted by a family friend
– The band was our brother-in-law’s band, Legends of Summer
– Jen’s brother officiated the wedding
– Mike and the groomsmen wore socks with the initials of a late friend embroidered on them
– We surprised our mothers with photo charms of our Grandfathers who have passed attached to their bouquets
– Our fathers had a picture tile on the back of their ties that had a photo of us with our dads when we were little
– My wedding bouquet had Asiatic Lilies in memory of my childhood dog (Lilly)
– Our wedding took place on our 12-year anniversary
– Our first dance song was the song we heard played at a concert after our first kiss – 12 years ago that day
– The designer of my dress was the same as the prom dress I wore to prom with Mike
– Mike played guitar with the wedding band during the reception as a surprise to Jen
– We worked really hard on our guest list and ensured all of our closest friends were included
– Lastly, aside from the private vows and all of the details it’s tough to choose between our first dance or the processional as another top moment. Mike loved being able to watch everyone walk out with me being the final person he watched. And I loved walking down the aisle (despite ugly crying). It was such a built up and anticipated moment and was so special to walk out and see everyone there with Mike in the center.
The first dance was also so special because it was a song that has meant so much to us over the past 12 years and was another moment where we felt alone in such a large crowd of people. We also made up the choreography on our own in our living room, so it was a very fun and special moment.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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Lauren Fair Photography

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A Quintessential Cool California Wedding at Hummingbird Nest Ranch

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Hummingbird Nest Ranch is a picturesque wedding venue, surrounded by lush greenery and fresh blooms. Josh and Justine wanted to lean into the natural beauty of the space and chose a classic color palette of green and white. [/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]A quintessential cool, California countryside evening under the stars. [/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]Joshua surprised Justine on the edge of the cliffs in Northern California with a sunset proposal on New Years Eve. [/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Sarah Seven Giovanna Gown[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Cami NYC Slip Dress[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Groom wore Armani and Tom Ford[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Passed Cocktails – Champagne with Cotton Candy and Aperol Spritz with Candied Oranges

Passed appetizers – Crab Cakes, Mini Sliders, Grilled Cheese in Tomato Soup, Shrimp Cocktail
Dinner – Filet and Halibut [/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Justine wanted the flowers to look organic and natural in the venue’s garden-style setting. She chose white roses, ranunculus, peonies and anemones for her personal flowers and centerpieces. The florist used lots of candles to create a romantic setting on each of the farm-style tables.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Funfetti with Vanilla Icing [/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]Bridal party entrance – Kisses and Cake by John Powell
Bridal March – I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You Violin Cover by Daniel Jang
Ceremony Exit – Higher Love by Whitney Houston and Kygo
First Dance – You Make it Easy by Jason Aldean [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Josh and Justine had some special touches throughout the wedding, which personalized their big day. They had a live wedding painter capture the ceremony while guests were taking their seats. This was not only a fun, interactive experience for their friends and family, but was also such a beautiful keepsake![/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Guests were greeted with champagne topped with cotton candy when they transitioned from the ceremony to cocktail hour. This was such a fun twist on a classic![/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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West Coast Cool Meets East Coast Style at Cielo Farms

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Creams, Champagne, Nude, Ivory, Creamy Grey, Mauvy Pinks, Olive Green
[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Zoey and Tyler’s wedding design was influenced by modern elegance, and celebrated Zoey’s east coast style with Tyler’s west coast effortlessness. Using Cielo Farms as the beautiful backdrop for a black tie affair, that was as elegant as it was fun! We used the wedding colors and modern touches from rentals. paper goods, and florals to set the scene for a night to remember. Cielo farms is such a beautiful and picturesque venue, Zoey and Tyler really wanted to show off the beauty and views of the venue. We really took cues from the colors around the venue, and wanted to create a fresh and modern feel for the wedding. We opted for an acrylic Chuppah so that the guests could take in the view of the Santa Monica Mountains at the ceremony as Zoey and Tyler exchanged vows. We also came up with a split floor plan with a mix of kings tables and rounds to create a sense of this is where we gather as family and friends, and then moved everyone to the all white dance floor to dance the night away! [/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]Tyler’s POV: We traveled back to Zoey’s hometown (Easton, MA) for Thanksgiving. We had been there for a week before engagement day. The day started like every other day…I golfed with her dad in the morning and Zoey went out shopping with her mom. When her Dad and I finished our round, we came back home to prepare the house for the proposal while she was still out shopping. I had a handful of her closest friends from the East Coast come over to surprise her once I asked her to marry me. When she got home, I was Facetiming with my parents outside so I asked her to come outside to say hi. When she got outside, my parents asked to get a tour of her beautiful backyard (my parents were in on it, too). We were walking around the backyard when we got to a waterfall structure that her dad had built in the backyard. When my parents hung up, I got down on one knee and totally spaced on the speech I wanted to give, but I asked her to marry me and she said yes! Once that happened, her friends came outside to surprise her and Zoey was the most surprised human being I have ever seen in my life. It was awesome. Then we had a party all night to celebrate.[/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Zoey wore a wedding dress by Berta Privee from NWLA Bridal store. [/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Samantha Levis of The Bold and Bridal styled the bride and the bridesmaids. [/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The groom wore a Custom Tuxedo by Malibu Clothes – Beverly Hills [/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]TresLa catering helped creating a custom menu for Zoey and Tyler. The signature drink was “The Bungalow” Named after the The Bungalow Santa Monica where Zoey and Tyler met, we had and watercolor illustration done of the entrance to the the Bunglow for the bar sign.
[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]James Hartman of In Blume created the florals matching the wedding colors. We really took cues from the colors around the venue, and wanted to create a fresh and modern feel for the wedding. We opted for an acrylic Chuppah so that the guests could take in the view of the Santa Monica Mountains at the ceremony as Zoey and Tyler exchanged vows. The bride and groom’s puppy, Penelope also made a special appearance with a custom collar made by the wedding florist- James Hartman of In Blume, for photos with Zoey and Tyler [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The wedding cake was from Sweet Lady Jane with one of their most popular cake flavors called Triple Berry. It was a perfect fresh wedding cake for a hot summer night.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]First Dance- Band: Into the Night/ Song: This Magic Moment by The Drifters [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Special Detail #1 – The signature drink was “The Bungalow” Named after the The Bungalow Santa Monica where Zoey and Tyler met, we had a watercolor illustration done of the entrance to the the Bungalow for the bar sign.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Special Detail #2- Zoey and Tyler wanted their new puppy Penolope to be incorporated into the wedding design, so we had an illustration of Penelope done and printed on cocktail napkins.
[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]Special Detail #3-Penelope also made a special appearance with a custom collar made by the wedding florist- James Hartman of In Blume, for photos with Zoey and Tyler [/field]
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BBJ La Tavola

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Sanaz Riggio Photography

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Modern Design in Mexico Where Fashion Took Center Stage

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Their wedding colors were several tones of neutrals including black, white, shades of gray. Whitney and William’s wedding also included pops of green and gold. Their colors really flowed well with the venue, the beach and the surroundings. [/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Whitney and William’s wedding was laid back, chic, modern, beach wedding with black, gray, white and gold moments. The bride and groom utilized local florals and were inspired by the venue and the local views. The designed with softened with beautiful fabric chairs, textures and linens. The views and the surroundings were the everything![/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”][/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Whitney wore a stunning Monique Lhuillier lace gown and it was a show stopper! She was an absolute angel in her wedding dress.[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]The venue provided all the food and drink. The drinks were garnished with limes that had been branded with the couples names. Right before the ceremony there was a Vueve champagne station where they served champagne to all the guests as they were arriving. [/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]There were beautiful large white and green floral arbor overlooking the ocean during the ceremony. The ceremony also included beautiful x-back chairs and florals in the aisle. In the reception the were layers of textures, beautiful linens, green glasses, fabric covered chairs, beautiful lighting, florals local to the area, acrylic placemats, modern and chic table settings and views of the ocean. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Whitney and William’s wedding cake was a white classic cake with matching reception floral accents.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]There was a live violinist playing music before the ceremony and during cocktail hour. An incredibly fun mariachi band came and play music during cocktail hour as well and guided the couple and their guests the reception area for the reception. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]A special detail that the couple included in their wedding day was that the mother of the groom made handmade shot glasses from clay that guests wore during cocktail hour. It was a perfect sentimental touch.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Another cute detail was the branded limes in there cocktails. All the limes had their last name on them.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]Anne-Claire Allen, Whitney and William’s wedding planner, designed their wedding with acrylic placemats on head table. It was such a fun little design element that stood out at their wedding. Something you don’t see every day![/field]
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Event Planning

Del Cabo Weddings

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Erin Wilson Photography

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Sophisticated Celebration on the Tuscan Hills

Step into a world of timeless elegance and unending romance, where the spirit of Italy is intertwined into all the dreamy details. Tuscandream Weddings planned a celebration of Mediterranean beauty infused with the vibrant hues of fresh citrus against a blue and white color palette. Breathtaking blooms designed by Flowers Living delight, while chandeliers gracefully dangle from lush greenery above. Prepare to be swept away by all the artful imagery captured by Gianluca And Mary Adovasio. You can see all the love and charm inside the full gallery.

From Tuscandream Weddings… When Marie and Ryan contacted Tuscandream Weddings they already had a list of almost 30 possible venues that they had sorted themselves. Their idea behind the wedding day was to have a spectacular location for the ceremony that would be a surprise for the guests and a luxurious resort for the wedding reception completely in tune with the guests’ level of expectations.

While working through the list we realized that there was nothing matching their vision. We then suggested some of our preferred options, and the final choices were the magnificent San Galgano Abbey south of Siena and Dievole 5-star wine resort in the heart of Chianti Classico.

In terms of decor and layout we followed Marie’s creative ideas. We incorporated a lot of Mediterranean elements like lemons and ceramics mixed with a touch of sophisticated grace choosing a pastel color palette with gold elements and chandeliers hanging from greenery arches.

Summer Wedding Essentials For Your Guests To Beat The Heat

There is no denying that summer is a great season for weddings, but sometimes keeping your guests comfortable in rising temperatures can feel like an uphill battle. We’ve got some helpful tips and tricks to help your guests beat the heat!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Oliver Fly Photography

1. Keep it Indoors

No matter where in the world you’re getting married, if it’s summer, chances are it’s going to be hot! The easiest way to ensure that you and your guests are as comfortable as possible is to have your entire wedding indoors in a space that has air conditioning. We know that sounds easy in theory, but depending on the size of your venue, this could get tricky. If you haven’t locked in your venue yet, express your concerns about the heat to your wedding planner and search for a venue that has enough space inside for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. If you already have your venue and it isn’t possible to host the entire wedding indoors, consider doing a “flip”. A “flip” is when your planner and their team transform your ceremony location into a reception space, preferably while your guests are enjoying cocktail hour elsewhere. This technique will ensure that your guests are in a climate-controlled space for the majority of your wedding and only have to brave the elements for a brief window of time.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Katie Lopez Photography

2. Keep them Hydrated

It’s always important to make sure that your guests stay hydrated, but even more so if your wedding is outdoors. Make sure that water is available during every part of your wedding. For the cocktail hour, and the reception, this is easy because your caterer will likely have waitstaff passing or refilling drinks, or guests can help themselves by going to the bar. Don’t forget about the ceremony. Depending on what time your guests arrive at your ceremony location, they may be outdoors for an hour or more by the time cocktail hour rolls around! Consider having a water station near the entrance where guests can help themselves to a small bottle of water or perhaps some fruit infused water on ice. If the thought of having your guests sipping bottles or even glasses of water during your ceremony makes you cringe, ask your caterer or wedding planner if they can arrange to have the waitstaff collect the glasses or bottles fifteen minutes before the ceremony begins–win, win!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Sophie Epton Photography

3. Get Shady

If any portion of your summer wedding is being held outdoors, it’s important to throw shade (in a good way). Some shade may be built into your venue like an awning or an overhang. If your venue does not provide shade naturally – bring it in. Shade comes in many different shapes and sizes depending on your needs. Umbrellas and tents are great coverage options for larger outdoor spaces. To make sure that you have all of your guests covered, you may even consider giving out parasols that can function both as a shield from the sun and a sweet wedding favor!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Luna de Mare Photography

4. Fans

Fans are a great way to keep the air circulating, minimizing the impact of soaring temperatures. If your venue is designed for outdoor ceremonies, like a patio or a courtyard, they may have fans built-in. If not, talk to your wedding planner about renting fans. Electric fans will offer your guests the most airflow, some may have mist capabilities (which is a definite plus). Paper fans are another great way to help your guests stay cool. Some printing companies even offer packages where they print your wedding program onto fans–you gotta love a 2-in-1!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Jose Villa

5. Get a Late Start

Timing is everything when planning a wedding. For summer weddings, we always recommend starting later in the day when things have cooled down a bit. Consider having your ceremony just before sunset and your reception in the evening. The photos of the sun setting while you’re exchanging vows are guaranteed to be swoon-worthy and your guests will be SO grateful!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Rebecca Yale Photography

6. Offer Transportation (even if it’s walking distance)

Standing or sitting outside can be rough if it’s hot, walking is even tougher. Even if your ceremony and your reception are what you would normally consider “walking distance” from one another, we recommend providing transportation for your guests between the venues. It can be something as simple as golf carts or a shuttle. Your guests will be thankful that you spared them the walk.

PHOTOGRAPHY | O’Malley Photographers

7. Tone Down the Dress Code

If you’ve got your heart set on an outdoor summer wedding, opt for a less formal dress code, like dressy casual or just plain casual. This allows your guests to dress comfortably for the weather, rather than having to suit up in the sweltering heat. Encourage the men to wear light fabrics like linen and cotton and the women to wear comfortable sundresses or dressy separates.

PHOTOGRAPHY | George Pahountis

8. Frozen Refreshments

What better way is there to keep your guests cool than serving frozen cocktails? From margaritas and piña coladas to champagne with a popsicle garnish–these frozen treats are sure to help your guests cool off. It’s a good idea to offer one or two non-alcoholic options to make sure that none of your guests feel left out of the frozen festivities.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Amanda K Photography

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Rebecca Yale Photography

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A Breathtaking Waterfront Wedding in Blue and White

Welcome to a wedding celebration that will sweep you off your feet and transport you to a dreamy day on the water. Done in soothing hues of blue and white, every detail has been meticulously crafted by Anna Lucia Events to create an ambiance of pure enchantment. Love and beauty intertwine to create an unforgettable experience with extraordinary floral design by Velvet And Twine. Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating imagery by Hunter Ryan Photo and watch the celebration unfold in the full gallery.

Sophia and John met at Florida State University in 2013. Six years later, John got down on one knee to propose during a walk on Ponte Vedra Beach in October of 2019. Sophia said, “The next thing I see just up the beach,” she says, “are both of our entire immediate families, together—cheering, smiling, and joyfully celebrating our love and ever-growing familia.”

The couple wanted to plan a wedding centered around the idea of “La Familia,” a motto used by the late Priest who married Sophia’s parents. He said, “As I think on everything I have witnessed in my priesthood, it is clear to me that the person we become in this world can always be traced to our experiences in the family.” “La Familia” has been the motto of Sophia’s family – and was the central theme of their wedding weekend. With “La Familia” as the theme – It was only fitting that the couple decided to hold their reception at Sophia’s grandparents’ waterfront estate. “I couldn’t ignore my dreams of having an outdoor wedding reception in a picturesque setting like that of my family’s home.”

The venue being so special to the couple – they had a custom sketch drawn, dubbed “Casa Abuelos,” or “grandparents’ home,” for their the save-the-date and details cards, and a personalized crest that reflected the home.

“I have an emotional, purposeful connection to my reception venue,” she says. “It’s a special place where I have made so many unforgettable memories while growing up—it is home to numerous celebrations and family gatherings, high school proms, graduations, and anniversaries.” Since they would be completely transforming the grounds for their wedding and creating an entirely new “look” at the home, the couple also chose to have their engagement photos captured there too. John wore heirloom cufflinks from his grandfather, also named John. He proposed to his wife (John’s grandmother)—also named Sophia—exactly 60 years before their grandson presented his bride with her engagement ring. The bride donned a custom Madrid-Rosaline veil with blusher. “Though blushers aren’t used often these days, I always imagined my father lifting it back as he presented me to my husband! I appreciate this traditional element,” she says. “It was such an honor to wear the most exquisite diamond solitaire earrings that belonged to my late Abuelita, my great-grandmother from Cuba.”

Keeping with tradition, Sophia and John’s saw each other for the first time at the aisle. But Sophia wanted to have a special moment with her father before the ceremony. They shared a father/daughter “first look” on the staircase of their family home. “His first words, ‘You look stunning,’ melt my heart just as much today. I cherish the sweet memory of us driving to the chapel, before the greatest man in my life would present me to the man of my dreams.”

Sophia and John selected the Chapel of the Holy Cross at Jesuit High School—the alma mater of the bride’s father, uncle, and cousins. “This was the easiest decision we had to make—we are both Roman Catholic and our entire families are all devout Catholics, too!” Sophia and John chose a blue-and-white color palette. For the overall design…”We drew upon the existing beautiful architecture and overall feel of the house—it was already all there!” says the bride.

“The incredible cane-wrapped, four-sided bar, positioned around the grand oak and illuminated by chandeliers woven into the greenery, had a truly magical, ethereal feel,” says Sophia. “It was the original inspiration for our reception vision and was truly my favorite design element!” A nod to the bride’s Cuban heritage – The couple’s signature drink featured at the bar was a Cuban mint mojito. The couple’s planner Anna Lucia Events, designed the escort wall that matched the transom window over the front door of the home. Glass and chinoiserie bud vases held a variety of white blooms with each guests escort card. Flowers used were pure perfume garden roses, orlaya lace, larkspur, ranunculus, stock, majolik spray roses. Their cake was displayed on a hand-stitched blue and white linen, “a familial treasure my great-grandmother brought to America from Cuba,” says the bride. The pool area was transformed into a dance floor; the stage and backdrop built were secured over the water. “I bet most of the guests never knew they were dancing over a pool!” says Sophia. Late-night snacks were served on the patio from their custom “La Ventanita,” or “little window,” says Sophia. “It was a nod to the nostalgia of the go-to-hub for conversation within the Cuban community. It was fun to highlight a little bit of tradition of evenings when Cuban friends would gather around with great conversation and authentic Cuban food.” After guests grabbed a ‘Cuban’ from La Ventanita – they danced the night away as the band switched to Latin music. The bride said, “The dance floor was filled the entire night and our guests loved dancing to the Latin vibes!”

The newlyweds exited their reception from Casa Abuelo’s via boat – as guests waved sparklers.

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Hunter Ryan Photo

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Garden Oasis Dreams for this Springtime Backyard Wedding

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The wedding colors were blue, yellow, green, pink, and white.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Natalie and Michael’s wedding combined some of their favorite things — eating outdoors in gardens, cozy bookstores, and cheerful colors. The place settings with vibrant, colorful plates and glassware were a bold and beautiful detail of the reception space; they stood out perfectly on the long, big tables where everyone could easily sit and dine together. This couple had a few fun specialty cocktails for their guests planned for the night, and the celebration ended with a beautiful sunset right off the dock.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Natalie and Michael met at the library as juniors at the University of Mississippi. They quickly bonded over their shared bookish interests and made plans to study together several times throughout the next few semesters. After a few years of dating, Michael planned an elaborate surprise proposal on Hilton Head Island. He invited Natalie’s parents to join them, and they all ate at one of Natalie’s favorite restaurants. Afterward, Michael had a surprise sunset proposal on the dock waiting for Natalie.

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Natalie wore a simple, yet elegant Carol Hannah ballgown with a square neckline, tied front, and horsehair-braid trim. “My dress is Carol Hannah. My mom and I spent a weekend in the fall looking for dresses and fell in love with the designer at a bridal boutique called The Sentimentalist in Atlanta.”

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”][/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

Michael bought his classic black tux in Jackson, Mississippi, at a menswear store called The Rogue.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

During cocktail hour, Shaken & Stirred Mixology served three signature cocktails: March Nocturne, Rapier, and Buerre D’arachide. Guests then ate a plated dinner provided by Signature Catering.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The decor featured pastel florals, colorful plates, and glasses, reminding Natalie of springtime and some of her favorite memories: “I wanted a combination of some of our favorite things: eating outdoors in gardens, cozy bookstores, and cheerful colors. I have a favorite bookstore in Sydney, Australia, called Ampersand, which combines these three perfectly. I spent many hours sipping cappuccinos outside in pretty china teacups and wandering through the many levels of the store decorated with colorful antiques. I love in period pieces when people dine outside with real place settings instead of how we normally do it now with plastic forks and a stack of paper napkins. For the reception, I wanted everyone to sit down and dine together at big tables with conversation, food, and drinks flowing.”

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The couple chose not to serve cake, instead celebrating and toasting their guests with a champagne tower.

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Michael: “We entered the ceremony all together instead of the groom and bride separately. Natalie and I were both escorted by both our parents and entered the ceremony on different sides.”

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These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

BBJ La Tavola

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Emerald Empire Band

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A Disney Fairytale Wedding in Marbella, Spain

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Katie and Jon’s wedding was a stunning affair that was filled with personal touches and unique details. One of the standout elements of the wedding was the choice of colors, which were pink for the decoration and white for the bridesmaids’ dresses. This color scheme added a lovely touch of elegance and sophistication to the entire event.

The use of pink in the wedding decoration was particularly striking, with the color featured prominently in everything from the floral arrangements to the napkin accessories. The hanging flowers and pink accents throughout the venue added a touch of romance and whimsy to the overall look and feel of the celebration.

In contrast, the bridesmaids’ dresses were all in white, which created a beautiful contrast against the pink decorations. The white dresses were chic and sophisticated, with each bridesmaid adding their own unique flair to the overall look. The matching white floral arrangements tied everything together perfectly, creating a cohesive and polished aesthetic.[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]The bride, Katie, paid great attention to detail in the design of her dreamy Marbella destination wedding. She had a clear vision of a Disney fairy tale wedding, and the decor reflected this with a heart-shaped theme and plenty of pink. Pedro Navarro, the talented florist in Spain, created stunning floral arrangements, including hanging flowers, which added to the magical atmosphere.

In addition to the florals, Katie incorporated personal touches into the decor, such as mirror gold name places, baby pink napkins, and plates. These small details tied in perfectly with the overall theme and added a touch of elegance to the already beautiful setting.

Overall, the design and vibe of the wedding was enchanting and romantic, with a touch of sophistication. Katie’s attention to detail and vision for a fairy tale wedding came to life with the help of talented vendors like Pedro Navarro, creating an unforgettable and magical celebration for the couple and their guests.
[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]Katie and Jon’s love story began at the gym, where they both worked out at Hale County Club. After two years of knowing each other, Jon finally asked Katie out. Little did she know, their relationship would soon take a major turn with a surprise proposal.

Initially planning to propose in Dubai, the pandemic and the arrival of their baby forced Jon to come up with a new plan. He decided to pop the question in an escape room in Manchester, a place they had enjoyed for fun in the past.

Recalling the proposal, Katie said, “I thought nothing of it. I get so into the game that I was oblivious to all the clues, such as the padlocks with the numbers of the date we met. In the final 30 seconds of the game, I wheeled down the chest to beat the room and there was the ring.”

It was a clever and unique proposal that perfectly suited the couple’s love for fun and games. Jon’s creativity and thoughtfulness showed just how much he knew and loved his soon-to-be wife.
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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]atie looked absolutely stunning on her wedding day, wearing not one but two breathtaking Berta dresses. For the ceremony, she wore a fishtail gown with a long veil, which was truly a showstopper. The dress hugged her curves in all the right places, and the veil added a touch of elegance and grace to her look. Katie shared, “I always knew I wanted a Berta gown, I fell in love with the fishtail shape and the way it made me feel.”

For the evening reception, Katie changed into another Berta dress, which was more chic and sophisticated than her ceremony gown. She even had the train and lining removed, creating a daring see-through look that perfectly matched her fun and flirty personality. She revealed, “I think the seamstress thought I was mad butchering up a Berta gown. But I knew I wanted something sexy for the evening and the see-through fabric was perfect.”

Katie’s choice of dresses perfectly captured her vision for her wedding day, and she looked like a true princess in both of them. Her attention to detail was evident in every aspect of her attire, from her stunning jewelry to her perfectly styled hair and makeup.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bridal party’s outfits were also a standout feature of the wedding. The bride had nine bridesmaids, including her mother who was the matron of honour. Speaking about her mother’s attire, the bride said, “My mum wore a wedding dress too; a Berta with the train cut off. Most people think this is crazy, but we like to be different.” The rest of the bridal party wore Pretty Lavish dresses in white, which complemented the bride’s chic and sophisticated number for the evening. The overall effect was stunning and cohesive, with the white dresses providing a clean and classic backdrop to the pink and gold accents of the wedding decor.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The groomsmen at the wedding were all dressed in classic black tuxedos with bow ties, providing a sharp and sophisticated look for the occasion. The groom himself stood out with a unique twist on his attire, opting for a white dinner jacket instead of the traditional black custom designed by The Bespoke Tailor. This choice added a touch of elegance and individuality to his overall look, while still complementing the classic style of the groomsmen.[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Let’s talk about the delectable food and drinks served at this stunning wedding. The couple opted for a gourmet menu that included some truly delicious choices.

One highlight was the perfectly cooked asparagus, beef fillet and lobster for the main course, which was a lovely addition to the meal. And what’s a wedding without a mimosa? The guests enjoyed sipping on this classic brunch cocktail during the reception.

Overall, the food and drinks at this wedding were nothing short of perfection. The couple and their guests were undoubtedly satisfied with the incredible culinary experience.
[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]As we step into the world of Katie and Jon’s wedding, we are immediately enchanted by the breathtaking floral and decor elements that adorned their celebration. Orchids, roses, white peonies, and almond flowers cascaded from the ceiling in a whimsical and romantic fashion. The stunning floral arrangements by Pedro Navarro perfectly complemented the wedding’s color scheme, adding a touch of elegance and luxury to the overall design.

The combination of floral and decor elements created a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with the pink and white hues of the flowers complementing the gold accents found throughout the reception space. From the mirror gold name places to the baby pink napkins and plates, every detail was carefully chosen to enhance the wedding’s theme and create an unforgettable experience for the happy couple and their guests.

The result was a truly magical wedding that captured the essence of a modern fairy tale, with floral and decor elements that left everyone in awe. Katie and Jon’s celebration was a true representation of their love story, and the attention to detail in the floral and decor elements only added to the magic of their special day.
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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The sweet finale of any wedding is undoubtedly the cake, and Katie and Jon’s nuptials were no exception. The couple opted for a stunning four-tier cake with a floating heart, tying in with the heart theme that was prominent throughout the wedding, including Katie’s heart-shaped engagement ring. The cake was a gorgeous centerpiece at the reception, with its elegant design featuring delicate floral detailing and soft pastel hues.

However, a slight mishap occurred when the top tier of the cake fell off due to the heat. Despite the unexpected incident, Katie took it in stride and was incredibly laid-back about it. As she put it, “I was very chilled about it, but I think people expected me to be upset.” Nevertheless, the mishap only added to the charming and unforgettable memories of the day.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]The bride recalls feeling nervous as she waited with her bridesmaids and the children at the top of the staircase. Her father tried to slow her down, but her adrenaline was pumping, and she was eager to get down the aisle. As the violin started playing, the bride was able to relax and enjoy the moment. The wedding march was A Million Dreams from The Greatest Showman, which set the perfect tone for the ceremony. The bride also shared that the reception was filled with lively music, including a live performance by Ella Shaw, a runner-up on Britain’s Got Talent. The couple’s first dance was to an acoustic version of Diamonds, which seamlessly transitioned into a fast-paced rendition of the song. The newlyweds and their guests danced the night away, creating memories that would last a lifetime.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]The heart-shaped theme was a prominent element throughout the wedding, as it held significant meaning to the couple. The bride’s engagement ring was in the shape of a heart, and so they incorporated this symbol into their wedding day in various ways. The wedding cake was a four-tiered masterpiece with a floating heart, and hearts were also scattered throughout the floral arrangements and decor. Even the readings during the ceremony and the music played at the reception were chosen to reflect this theme. It was a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to the love shared between the newlyweds.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″][/field]
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The 6 Best Setting Sprays to Ensure Your Wedding Makeup Makes It to the After Party

Even if you’re hiring a professional makeup artist, there is one item in your arsenal that every bride needs…a seriously good setting spray. We’re going to start at square one because some brides haven’t even heard of setting spray or have never used it, so if you’re a makeup pro/tutorial queen feel free to skip ahead to the recs. For the rest of you…class is in session. Setting spray is a transparent mist that helps keep your makeup from running, smudging, settling, and melting throughout the day. We’ve all been there. You look fire when you walk out the door only to come home to a horror movie version of what you once were looking back at you in the mirror. But no one wants that immortalized in wedding photos. Plus there are so many more obstacles, both physical and emotional, that you and your makeup will have to overcome together on your big day. So give yourself and your portraits a fighting chance and invest in a good setting spray.

KT Merry Photography

How To Use Setting Spray

There’s everyday makeup and then there’s wedding makeup–two totally different looks with completely different objectives. Wedding makeup will have more layers, more contouring, and overall more color to ensure that you POP and look as flawless as possible in your high-def wedding photos and video. Setting spray works to keep all of those elements in place through sweat, happy tears, and drastic temp changes. Think of your face as a canvas. While you could just apply a varnish when you’ve finished your masterpiece, to seriously prolong the life of your makeup look, you can actually apply setting spray after each step to really lock it in. You get your base done, spray…you finish your eyeshadow, spray…eyeliner, lashes…you get the idea.

KT Merry Photography

Why Buy Your Own?

Yes, your makeup artist will bring setting spray, but your wedding day is not a day for experimentation. The last thing you need is to have a reaction to their setting spray and break out all over your face moments before your ceremony. So, unless you know the kind they’ll be using and have tried it (and liked it) before, it’s always safest to experiment in the lead-up to your wedding so there are no surprises. You can keep it on hand and reapply throughout the day as necessary. Plus, it’s a good idea to have one that you like at home for big events or to take with you for your honeymoon.

KT Merry Photography

While they all help you get better wear out of your makeup, there are different setting sprays for different occasions, different types of weather, different skin types, and different finishes. Here are 6 of our favorites.

Best Glow

e.l.f Dewy Coconut Setting Mist

Dewy is in, especially when it comes to bridal makeup. Now, most setting sprays have a matte finish, so finding one that can hold your makeup in place but still give you that dewy glow is a big ask, but we’ve got just the one! e.l.f’s Dewy Coconut Setting Mist has a coconut-infused formula that smells great and actually works to hydrate your skin while you wear it.

Photo | e.l.f.

Best For Oily Skin

NYX Professional Makeup Setting Spray Matte

So many of us struggle with oily skin, especially under layer upon layer of makeup. This water-based setting spray lets your skin breathe and won’t clog your pores. It works instantly by absorbing oil and reducing shine giving you a perfect matte finish. And get this…it lasts up to 16 hours!

Photo | NYX

Best Illuminating

Iconic London’s Prep Set Glow Hydrating Spray

So you don’t just want to glow? You want to sparkle. Say less. You’re going to need a shimmer setting spray. These 2-in-1 formulas can be a bit dicey but this one has over 2,000 5-star reviews on Sephora. There’s even a bronzing option!

Photo | Iconic London

Best For Humidity

Urban Decay Allnighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray

We all hope for beautiful weather on our wedding day, but be it rain or humidity, there are some things we simply can’t change…but we can plan. Urban Decay Allnighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray gets our vote for the best overall too (in case you were wondering). Urban Decay’s patented Temperature Control Technology actually lowers the temperature of your makeup and it’s WATERPROOF!

Photo | Urban Decay

Best Blurring

Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Makeup Setting Spray

Who doesn’t want smooth airbrushed skin on their wedding day? While this setting spray may be lightweight, it’s definitely a heavy lifter where makeup is concerned. It gives skin a beautiful smooth satin look and gives your makeup an excellent hold. If you’re planning on doing your own makeup, this setting spray will also level up your look and give it that professional airbrushed finish.

Photo | Charlotte Tilbury

Best For Sweat

Tarte Shape Tape Stay Spray Vegan Setting Spray

Everybody sweats (some more than others), especially on their wedding day. From nerves and soaring temps to endless layers of synthetic fabrics and shapewear there’s no shortage of reasons to want a sweatproof setting spray, in fact, we highly recommend it! This refreshing cucumber-scented setting spray is waterproof, sweatproof, and transfer-proof.

Photo | Tarte

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For membership information, click here

KT Merry Photography

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A Team Of All-Star Vendors Came Together To Gift A French Castle Wedding To Pandemic Frontline Workers

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Kirsten requested a color palette of greens and creams with a gold accent color and they were reflected in all the details of the day – all gifted by the generous suppliers involved.

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As wedding planners, we are constantly searching for incredible venues, and Chateau de Bonneval certainly exceeded our expectations the moment we first saw it. Privately owned by Geraud and Marta de Bonneval, it has been in the Bonneval family for over 1000 years and is steeped in history. Open to a select number of intimate weddings each year; the chateau is a perfect setting for a romantic French wedding with a cobbled courtyard with twisted stone pillars, which we drenched with fairy lights for the wedding breakfast, which was served on circular tables with Kirsten and Ali seated at a sweetheart table. Inside are several staterooms with hand-painted murals on the ceilings and hand-carved detailing around the doorways. The tablescape continued with delicate green tapered candles, green linen knotted napkins, and a personalized iced cookie table plan commissioned by event designer India Bottomley. After dinner, the guests retired to the lawns in front of the chateau, where an open-air dance floor with a fairy-light canopy awaited them. After a quick change into their dancing shoes, Kristen and Ali danced the night away under the stars. The magical day was captured by award-winning photographer Anneli Marinovich Photography and videography by Matthias Guerin.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

The love story of Kristen and Ali will bring tears to your eyes as they overcame so many obstacles in the quest to get married. When Aliaskar spotted Kristen on the first day of medical school in Philadelphia, he said, “Time moved in slow motion, and music played” when he saw her face. Following two months of asking friends to introduce them, he arranged a first date with homemade crepes and a Disney movie — a surefire way to win over a pediatrician! Kristen describes how she knew Ali was the one as he made her life better every day through millions of small gestures. Their personalities are infectious, and even when they face the toughest of situations, they would still share private jokes and laughter. When Ali left to study on another campus, their love shone through even though they had a long-distance relationship and the struggle of working their way through med school. They adopted the cutest dog, Winston, who further proved the seriousness of their commitment to each other. However, from different religions and backgrounds, there was some difficult family feedback, but they continued to snatch moments together during their grueling schedules. When Covid hit particularly badly at Montefiore Hospital in the Bronx, where they were both completing their medical studies, they were dedicated to their cause and became crucial members of the medical teams who did their utmost to save lives as the pandemic raged around them. Their families could only watch on from a distance, hoping and praying they would be safe from the virus themselves. At the same time, the world locked down, and we watched on in horror as medical professionals shared the reality of the pandemic in their clinical settings. Feeling helpless, the team at Best Events Company came up with an idea to bring some light to a couple working on the front line of the pandemic as a small way of thanking them for everything they were doing. The idea of the giveaway wedding was born. The concept was met with immeasurable positivity within the industry, and a team of industry-leading vendors gathered to bring the project to life. Each and every vendor generously donated their time, products, and energy to say a huge thank you to the winning couple. The giveaway was launched with the team expecting a few hundred applications. With over 3,000 entries and countless interviews with shortlisted couples later, Kristen and Ali won the prize and were invited to meet some of their team virtually. Needless to say, there were tears all around as the couple couldn’t believe they would get married in a French chateau with an incredible list of vendors on board to create a true fairytale-worthy wedding for them. A date was set, and everything was on track when Covid forced us to postpone the original date of their wedding. But finally, in May 2022, the couple celebrated their big day, surrounded by their loved ones in France!

Self-professed fashion addict Kristen chose an exquisite wedding dress by Monique Lhuillier, with forest green embroidery. The gown was paired with Bella Belle shoes, which the company gifted. She wore a stunning necklace and earrings gifted to her by her husband’s family, and her classically elegant hair and makeup look was created by the talented French HMUA Alexia Bigaud-Morin.

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Kristen’s bridesmaids were Ali’s sisters and her best friend. They all chose their own neutral-coloured dresses.

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Aliaskar wore a stylish cream tux, and his groomsmen wore black. All the alterations were carried out by his mother, who is a tailor.

Dinner was a delicious BBQ (hog roast) followed by homemade desserts and lots of champagne to toast the happy couple, who were beyond grateful for all the hard work provided by the generosity of the vendors.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Floral design by Le Coeur Sauvage Florist made the most of the romantic color palette of greens, creams, and gold. Divine stationery designed by Louise Richardson Stationery, and golden calligraphy wedding vows by Crimson Letters added a touch of nostalgia to the day.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The cake was a simple naked cake gifted to the happy couple by Chloe Belles Cakes. The cake cutting took place under the stars right before the first dance.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]Their intimate ceremony took place outdoors in front of an ancient wishing well at Chateau de Bonneval.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

The unique story behind this wedding: During the height of the pandemic, a group of wedding suppliers (including myself) ran a competition to say thank you to healthcare workers, who worked tirelessly during the pandemic. We had over 3000 entries with the prize being to win your dream wedding (where all the suppliers gifted their services & products). Kristen & Ali, two selfless doctors from NYC who were entered into the competition by a friend, ended up winning and they were such worthy winners! Their wedding took place 17 of May 2022 at Chateau de Bonneval in France.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

THE ENTRY THAT WON OUR HEARTS: Tell us more about the couple: I’ve known Kristen and Aliaskar since they met during their first year of medical school in Philadelphia, and they have always been meant to be. The way Ali tells it (very sappily, I may add), he saw Kristen on the first day of medical school from across the lobby, and while he doesn’t say that he knew she was “the one,” he always talks about how “time moved in slow motion and music played” when he saw her face. He proceeded to ask all their mutual friends to introduce them. Finally, two months later, after a first date featuring homemade crepes and Disney movies (a plus for a future Pediatrician), he got the girl. While Kristen does not describe their first meeting quite as sappily, she describes knowing Ali is the one because of the million little ways he makes every day of her life better. I have never spent a day with them where they are not laughing together and making inside jokes, regardless of what they are going through or if they had spent the previous 5 minutes fighting. After being together for a year, Ali left for a different clinical campus and they spent a few years in different cities, which was not particularly easy while going through medical school. Through this time, they learned how to prioritize each other and their love, and most importantly, they adopted a dog that Kristen refuses to acknowledge may love Ali more. Now over five years later, after couples-matching into Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, they are doing life together in NYC. Their relationship has overcome many obstacles, the biggest of which is their different religious backgrounds leading to family conflict. The heartache they have been through to stay together is hard to describe-from threats of disownment to holidays spent apart and shifts in how they relate to their family. On top of this, they deal with typical resident issues like working opposite schedules 80-100 hours a week. Like Romeo and Juliet, they are forbidden, star-crossed lovers who continue to fight to be together (albeit with a happy ending!). Time and time again, I have witnessed their sacrifices in their personal lives and professional lives for each other and for their love. Because of their family situation and with the additional stress of insurmountable debt from medical school, planning a future together and a wedding has been close to impossible. Rather than their dream wedding, their discussions have shifted over time to city hall. They don’t need a dream wedding in order to be perfect for each other, but I don’t know another couple who deserves a fairytale ending more. Tell us about the work they do: Kristen is a Social Pediatrics Resident, and Aliaskar is an Internal Medicine Resident, both at Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx. The Montefiore system serves primarily low socioeconomic patients. Most of Kristen’s patients live in the poorest congressional district in the country. COVID has hit NYC harder than anywhere in the U.S., and patients in the Bronx at Montefiore have been disproportionately affected due to their health inequalities, chronic diseases, and low socioeconomic status. At this time, Bronx patients are twice as likely to die from COVID compared to other NYC residents. Their hospital has been featured in New York Times articles and 60 Minutes due to how severely they have been hit by the COVID epidemic. Kristen and Ali are like other doctors in training, ubiquitously known for being overworked and under-paid. All things in the hospital that fall through the cracks fall onto them as residents. Due to the severity of the COVID outbreak at Montefiore, Kristen has been pulled from taking care of children to taking care of adults (a challenge no Pediatrician has wished on themselves). Ali’s program has taken the brunt of the epidemic, forcing them to work longer hours with fewer breaks. The cafeteria, lecture halls, and office spaces have been converted to patient rooms – quadrupling his usual patient load. While they fight COVID on the front lines, they receive daily phone calls from family members begging them to quit their jobs out of fear. But quitting is not an option now when they know that patients will die without them and their colleagues. It is impossible to describe what it is like practicing medicine in NYC right now. There are constant overhead alarms echoing “CODE BLUE, CODE BLUE,” a signal that Ali’s team needs to run immediately to rescue a patient who is on the precipice of death. They do this day in and day out despite having little personal protective equipment, low ventilator supplies, and low medication supplies. While it sounds like a cheesy movie, in the stress of the COVID pandemic, Ali and Kristen know more than ever how important their love for each other is. While they planned on getting married at city hall this summer, I know they now have nightly conversations about wishing they could get married sooner because of the expectation that one of them will likely get sick. However, because of their work schedules, this is not a possibility for them either. After all they have sacrificed for each other and for all their patients, this giveaway would give them a light to look forward to – a chance to have their dream wedding when they commit to fighting together forever.

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A Spectacular and Enchanting Summer Wedding in Romania

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]As soon as we started planning our special day, we knew we had to create a mood board that perfectly captured our unique vision. I took charge of the décor and colour palette, carefully curating every detail to ensure it felt authentic to us. We scoured the internet for hours, searching for the perfect elements that would make our wedding unforgettable. Choosing the colour scheme was one of the toughest decisions we had to make, as I have a chameleonic taste and love so many different styles and colours. In the end, we opted for a bold and whimsical feel, combining elegance with a timeless charm. We chose an array of ivory, cream, and pink blooms, accentuated with deep rosewoods and burgundies, to create a floral display that was both classic and untamed. The combination of flowers and foliage created a harmonious scheme that perfectly represented us and our buoyant approach to life. The result was breath-taking and provided a captivating contrast to the natural landscape that surrounded us, delighting both us and our guests. [/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Like many women, I had always dreamed of a wedding day that was completely unique and special. Our love story began over a decade ago, and when my husband proposed during our travels in Africa in a Serengeti Maasai tribe, we knew that we had to create an equally unforgettable experience for our big day.
To celebrate our diverse backgrounds, both in London where we reside, and in Transylvania where our roots are from, it was important for us to have two weddings. Our intimate ceremony in London was modern and chic, while our grander ceremony in Transylvania was filled with breathtaking landscapes and romantic charm. Both celebrations reflected our personalities and our love story.
Since our guests were coming from all over Europe, we chose Transylvania as our destination for its cultural significance and potential for a great vacation. We worked tirelessly to brainstorm every detail to create the perfect mix of indoor and outdoor elements, natural landscapes, and thoughtful touches that would make our day truly unforgettable.
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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]On our special day, I wanted to make a statement with my bridal style, so I chose two stunning attires. My daytime and evening dress was a British-crafted, semi-bespoke ‘Sassi Holford’ dress that everyone adored. The dress came with two options of removable sleeves and pockets, and it was out of this world! It had a subtle yet different and elegant design that was both classic and chic. The delightful texture of the organza and the graceful blush tone added dimension and interest, and I paired it with some dazzling and fashionable ‘Amina Muaddi’ heels and a delicate handcrafted pearl Headband that completed my refined bridal look.
For the night, I wanted to go all out and dress like a true party rockstar. I chose the decadent ‘Taller Marmo’ feather dress that screamed fabulous and chic and paired it with my ‘Aeyde’ cowboy boots and some incredible ‘Jennifer Behr’ earrings that elevated my style and embellished my look. With these two stunning attires, I felt like a queen and had such a blast celebrating my special day in style.
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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Our wedding was all about celebrating individuality, and that’s why I had a unique vision for my bridesmaids’ dresses. We decided to go for a mismatched look that showcased each woman’s unique style while still being colour-coordinated and made of similar material. Each bridesmaid wore a dress that was different in style, but they all looked stunning and complemented each other perfectly. This approach allowed for authenticity and a personal touch, ensuring that each woman felt comfortable and beautiful in a dress that was just right for her. The result was a beautiful and cohesive look that highlighted the unique personalities and styles of each of my wonderful bridesmaids.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]My husband was on a mission to find the perfect blend of tradition and personal flair for his wedding attire. He desired a look that would stand the test of time while also reflecting his unique style. He settled on a classic tuxedo with a bespoke ‘Kingsmen’ ivory jacket that complemented his body type and fashion sense flawlessly. To add a touch of personalization, he adorned himself with a bow tie and custom-made ‘Tateossian Cufflinks’ that were specially crafted to symbolize us – the Moon for me and the Sun for him. He completed the outfit by adding the ‘Omega Seamaster’ watch, to achieve the iconic ‘James Bond look’.

As the evening festivities drew near, he wanted to match his outfit with mine. He switched into a full black tuxedo that perfectly matched my ‘Taller Marmo’ dress. The end result was a stunningly stylish and sophisticated look that captured our personalities and made us feel graceful and poised on our big day.[/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]A wedding is never complete without delightful food and refreshing drinks. We wanted our guests to relish every moment of our celebration, which is why we made sure to offer a wide variety of options. Upon arrival, everyone gathered on the terrace to bask in the sun, listen to live jazz and savour delightful cheeses, paired with our favourite Prosecco, locally crafted in the region. Handmade ice-cream was also served to complement the warm weather. In the marquee, guests were treated to a four-course menu, each dish customized to their liking. From Starters and Seafood to Main Courses, Traditional options, and Desserts, our caterers made sure to cater to everyone’s taste buds. As the night progressed, we surprised our guests with homemade burgers and fries, which were passed around the dance floor as a late-night snack.
We also made sure that our guests had plenty of options when it came to drinks. Our open bar served our favourite Pinot Grigio and Pinot Noir, as well as traditional drinks like ‘Visinata’. We even had a specialist bartender and cocktail maker, who whipped up our signature cocktails, including our go-to drink at Soho House, the spicy Picante.
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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]I was determined to make our florals and décor the most breathtaking we had ever seen. To me, this was the key to transforming the venue and its surroundings into a dreamy wonderland. It was like a project I typically work on, where I had to infuse layers, definition, and beauty to bring meaning to the space. While some people may overlook the importance of such details, they were crucial to the ethereal look we desired. Working in close collaboration with our talented florist team, we created a whimsical and charismatic aesthetic. Our only limitation was the budget, but if we could have, we would have gone above and beyond. We selected versatile flowers, ranging from classic to bohemian styles, and focused on colours and florals that exuded elegance and left everyone in awe.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Ah, the infamous wedding cake – finding the perfect baker to bring my vision to life was no easy feat. I had a precise idea in mind – a balance of flavours, textures, and of course, stunning visual appeal. The end result was a towering 1.7 meter cake adorned with delicate 3D flowers and infused with a blend of our favourite flavours. Each bite was a taste of pure heaven – fresh, sweet, and perfect for a summer celebration.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]Our Christian religious ceremony was a beautiful and intimate event that captured the essence of our love. Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the venue’s lush greenery and shimmering lakes, we exchanged our vows under the gentle shade of majestic acacia trees. Every detail was carefully considered, from the exquisite floral arrangements to the breathtaking arch adorned with wispy blooms that created a romantic focal point. As we made our way down the aisle, the Quartet played Coldplay’s iconic ‘Viva la Vida,’ a song that held a special place in our hearts and perfectly captured the growth and transformation of our relationship. It was a moment that we will cherish forever.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]The atmosphere during our preparations was truly dreamy. We were staying at the beautiful ‘Villa Katrina’, a charming boutique villa located in Brasov. The property is steeped in history, and there is a fascinating story behind it. Legend has it that Katarina was the lover of Dracula himself, and the villa is now a historic symbol of true love and romance. Being in such a special place, surrounded by its unique history, added an extra layer of magic to our already special day.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Our two adorable miniature poodles, Maya and Marley, stole the show at our religious ceremony as they proudly carried our wedding rings down the aisle. Having them with us on our special day filled us with immense joy and made the celebration even more unforgettable!
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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]We strived to make our wedding a true celebration of love and happiness, leaving no stone unturned to ensure that it was an unforgettable experience for us and our guests. From the start, we had envisioned a night filled with unique and personalized touches, like the custom neon sign featuring lyrics from our beloved first dance song, “You’ve Got the Love” by Florence + the Machine. Despite the challenges of rehearsing our dance moves, we put in the effort, and it paid off as we hit the dance floor with our guests, fuelled by the energy of our amazing band. It was a night of pure joy, laughter, and dancing that we will always treasure in our hearts forever.[/field]
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A Timeless Multicultural Wedding in the Texas Hill Country

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Yvette and Josh’s wedding day consisted of beautiful blues, cream, and greenery. With the venue space of The Preserve at Canyon Lake, you do not need to worry about much embellishment. These colors were the perfect compliment to the already beautiful space.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The details and flowers were important to Yvette and Josh on their day. The wanted a very classic look, and with the space of The Preserve at Canyon Lake already providing that, they wanted to take special care in what they added. Yvette’s orchid bouquet was the perfect touch in this classic look. There were touches of blue throughout the reception, such as the seating chart and the white and blue Turkish boxes on each place setting that were favors from the bride and groom. There were also touches of blue on the table from the different ribbon colors on the escort cards, which signified what meal each guest would get.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”][/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”][/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The bridesmaid dresses were Yvette’s ‘something blue’ for the day, and we loved the way they complemented the classic white and green color scheme.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

The groomsmen wore very traditional navy blue suits rented from The Black Tux.

Royal Fig Catering provided the catering, including idealistic summer eats such as duck pastor tacos, peachy green salad, and ceviche served on plantain chips. Miniature cheeseburgers were served as the perfect late-night bite. Bartending was provided by The Preserve at Canyon Lake venue and included a full bar with His and Her signature cocktails.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Yvette wanted timeless white flowers with greenery which Evember did a fantastic job of bringing to life throughout the ceremony and reception space. Yvette carried a bouquet of white cascading orchids which looked so elegant with her dress.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The wedding cake designed by Cakes and More was a gorgeous four-tier, white cake adorned with orchids and roses. The cake was the perfect centerpiece for the delicious dessert table provided by Asukar.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

To honor the Bride’s family’s heritage and Spanish-speaking family members who have traveled from the Dominican, the couple opted for two officiants – one English-speaking officiant and one Spanish-speaking officiant. Half of the ceremony took place in English, and half of the ceremony took place in Spanish. A string quartet set the mood for the wedding as guests arrived for the ceremony and continued to entertain guests through cocktail hour.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Yvette and Josh incorporated their cultures in multiple ways throughout the reception. The couple had Asukar make desserts from both of their heritages, including Nigerian puff-puffs, Italian cannolis, and Dominican guava turnovers, in addition to the beautiful four-tier cake. They also had multiple musicians for the reception: a DJ to play the traditional wedding music everyone knows and loves, as well as a Nigerian musician for the groom’s heritage and a Salsa Merengue band, to bring in the bride’s heritage.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

To honor the bride’s heritage, they had a Hora Loca which is a tradition where they bring out props, confetti, and noisemakers and celebrate on the dance floor. Some of the dance floor props included flags from their heritages as well as Texas flags, traditional Dominican hats hand painted by Yvette’s uncle in the Dominican Republic, feather boas, and light-up wands. It was so fun to see everyone celebrate with the couple as the night ended!

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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Effortlessly Chic Telluride Wedding at the Peaks Resort & Spa

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Whites, greys, leathers, pinks, pale blue[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]
The design for Madison and Daniel’s October nuptials was greatly inspired by the couple’s personal style – effortlessly chic & totally timeless.

The wedding invitation set the stage for a luxe destination mountain wedding weekend. Guests received a custom oversized invitation of handmade, deckled paper embossed with an image of the San Juan Mountains. The leather-like envelope liner donned a custom sketch of the resort view, complete with the quintessential Telluride gondola.

The Aspens were blazing at peak season change for their rooftop ceremony. It was the perfect setting. Garlands of lush florals lined the aisle, with a spectacular arch serving as their ceremony backdrop. We wanted every piece of decor to compliment the picturesque setting around us, while still embracing the couple’s luxe style.

Madison’s Monique Lhuillier Wish ball gown served as inspiration for their idyllic seated dinner. The vibe was romantic, with a touch of glamour. We selected the table linens, cake design, even the florals chosen for the arrangements with the delicate lace applique as our inspiration. Another beautiful floral arch framed their sweetheart table. It was a sweet nod to the ceremony and a beautiful focal point for the room.

The reception theme was Mountain Maximalism. Guests danced the night away under hundreds of upside down blooms that were carefully installed within the existing crystal teardrops of the ballroom. Light up cowboy hats gave a southern flare to the dancing & kept the party going while Madison changed into her stunner second outfit – a lace Nadine Merabi jumpsuit with sky high platforms.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]The pair are from Baton Rouge and met in college their Freshman Year. They were engaged in August of 2021 at City Park in New Orleans.[/field]
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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Madison wore the beautiful Wish ballgown from Monique Lhuiller with a removable high neck long sleeve top to transition from formal to party[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bridesmaids were beautiful in high end Amsale dresses that were a pale pink in color. The gowns were paired with a gifted tasselled furry coat that Madison gifted her girls to wear for portraits and as the night cooled down in the mountains.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The groomsmen all wore black tuxes, and the groom wore a white coat and black bottoms for a fashionable and classy look! [/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]The Cocktail hour had passed appetizers and drink options from their signature cocktails of a peach bellini, moscow mule or dirty martini. The reception dinner was a seated dinner.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]No detail was missed in regards to florals, their reception space, ceremony space, bar and cocktail hour. The ceremony aisle was lined with a full meadow only allowing guests to enter from the outside of the aisle. The Aisle runner was monogrammed with their new last initial of “G” for Guilbeau, leading to a circular full thick floral arch with a beautiful fall mountain backdrop of yellowing aspens and the San Juan Mountains.The pair had a wood half circle floral-decorated cocktail bar and lounge during cocktail hour. The reception space was kept neutral and classy with lots of florals and neutral colors, and another floral arch surrounding their sweetheart table at the top of the room, as well as their cocktail bar. A separate room for the band and dancing included a ceiling full of hanging blooms that mimicked their aisle runner meadow for their guests to dance under all night long.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The 3 tier cake by Kelly Gray Cakes featured delicate sugar flowers on a textured table of florals. [/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]A string quartet played as Madison walked down the aisle, during the recessional, and during cocktail hour as entertainment for the guests.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Midway through the evening, Madison changed in to a Nadine Merabi jumpsuit to dance the night away in and enjoy a new look in a lace one piece jumpsuit.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]The band ended up allowing Madison and her bridesmaids to Karaoke late in to the evening with a few songs which was so much fun and had the crowd going in their party favor cowboy light up hats[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]The pair ended the night with a giant celebratory cold spark exit, surrounded by their guests, for an epic end of the night photo! [/field]
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