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

Survivor Winner, Ethan Zohn, Tied the Knot in Vermont!

Leave it to the former professional soccer player and Survivor champion, Ethan Zohn, to get married in an unforgettable celebration! He wed Lisa Heywood, an interior designer from New York, and the Bride’s eye for style was seen in everything from her garland bouquet alternative to her curve-hugging gown. Jaclyn Watson Events helped them create their whimsical Vermont wedding at the beautiful and historic Park McCullough House. Captured by Regina Fleming Photography, this wedding is a win!

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From Jaclyn Watson Events… Two time Survivor winner, Ethan Zohn, married Lisa Heywood, a New York interior designer, at the historic Park McCulloch House in Bennington, VT. It was amazing to be asked to be this couple’s planner, as I could feel the love radiate off of them. Ethan’s amazing battle to survive cancer – not once, but twice – and win was nothing short inspirational!

Being the designer she is, Lisa designed their entire wedding and took the helm in creating many of the pieces. Their families were at the heart of the wedding – we wanted to make sure guests saw the couple’s happiness and were apart of the celebration.

Lisa and Ethan choose to have a laid back rehearsal at Taraden Bed and Breakfast, bringing in a most righteous pizza truck called Classic Crust as well as wine from Mercer Estates. On Saturday, their wedding took place in the Gardens of Park Mccullough. After the ceremony, guests were invited to enjoy the cocktail hour on the wrap around porch and surrounding lawns followed by both an alfresco and indoor dining experience done by Heirloom Fire. They danced the night away to The Hair Farmers, and then the couple sped off on a very cool moped.

Pairing Modern Architecture with East Meets West Details

The Seven Degrees venue in Laguna Beach set the stage for this wedding inspiration that pairs modern architecture with copper details and gorgeous blooms by Florals by Jenny. Get inspired to put a contemporary East meets West twist on your big day with the full gallery captured by BYC Photography.

The inspiration behind this stylized wedding shoot was a modern take on East meets West. The shoot took place at the award winning Seven Degrees venue in Laguna Beach, which provided the perfect backdrop with its clean, contemporary and geometric architecture. Soft white roses and green ferns were showcased in the floral arrangements incorporating the Pantone color of 2017 “greenery” and metallic copper was used as an accent color in both the decor with geometric shapes as well as the cake, which features hand folded origami paper cranes, a symbol of happiness, luck, and peace in Eastern culture. The bride modeled a soft capelet adorning a lace a-line gown with tiered skirt and the groom was dressed in a slim cut three piece grey suit.

A Gorgeous Winter Wedding with the Prettiest Spring Garden Feel

It’s safe to say the sun is always shining in California, but infusing a February wedding with the look and feel of a stunning garden affair is still no easy feat. That is, unless you have a team of wedding superheroes on your side. This Calistoga celebration is a testament to the beautifully crafted design by Jesse Tombs of Alison Events along with those pretty, pretty (did I mention pretty?) blooms by Charlotte & Daughters and all captured by Larissa Cleveland. You would swear it took place smack dab in the middle of Spring but nope. We’ve got a winter wedding California style on our hands and it’s a stunner.

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Winter Weddings

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From the Floral Designer … A wedding in February is always a time of crossroads for flowers. We have our winter favorites still going strong, but it is also a thrilling time for florists because we start to see the first nods of spring at the flower market. For U-Wen and Mike’s wedding we were able to bring in lots of bright seasonal flowers to create a warm, fun, relaxed, yet sophisticated feel to their celebration.

For her personal flowers, U-Wen wanted a more traditional style bouquet and some simple flowers for her hair. We used Romantic Antique and Juliet david austin roses in addition to poppies, Italian ranunculus, fritillaria, spray roses, hellebore, and freesia with a touch of greenery to create a soft pastel bouquet. Many of the boutonnieres featured local hellebore to add a darker contrast to the spring blooms.

Guests entered the home and were greeted with a grand arrangement featuring flowering branches, which connected with the large statement pieces in the cocktail area. The space had lots of big blank walls which were prefect for us to use tall flowering cherry blossom branches, paired with peach and pink flowers and lots of candles. The cocktail tables were adorned with exquisite hellebores in copper vases. We used some flowing ferns and greenery to connect with the ceremony pieces. Set in front of a stunning backdrop of the Napa hills, the outdoor ceremony needed little more than a simple addition of candles and two arrangements on either side of the couple.

The reception tables featured long ceramic boats filled with the bright flowers and flowering cherry blossom branches. Food was the central focus of the reception and we wanted to allow space for the full culinary experience, while adding interest, color and beauty to the tables.

Infusing Big Personality (and a Pink Fridge) into a Small Office Space

Not only does Christy Doramus of Crowns by Christy make insanely cute head adornments and floral arrangements but her knack for whipping up a crazy cute interior is also on point. Tour her pink infused office space complete with a blushing SMEG fridge (!!!!) plus grab her 5 tricks for making the most of a small space.

Make your desk the most versatile piece in your office. Because my business is so hands-on I often find myself working from my laptop wherever I can find a space in the studio vs. Always sitting at a desk. Considering that we have limited space for furniture, we frequently use a desk (which is actually a console table) as a bar, buffet for serving food, or as a display table.

Use conference room tables that are light and mobile. In addition to using our studio as an everyday workspace, we also use it as an entertaining space to host bridal showers, baby showers, DIY classes and branded events. Our conference room tables are extremely versatile and can be placed together to create a long table for a meeting or it can be split up for DIY classes. The actual tables are also very inexpensive. The surfaces are basic IKEA tabletops and the legs can be purchased separately at PrettyPegs. Com. The legs can be conveniently removed for easy transportation to and from events, creating a pop-up flower crown bar no matter where our events schedule takes us.

Make the most of your bookshelves. Bookshelves are a fantastic way to display multiple items in a small space. During the day our shelves provide character as they feature not only books but also some of our favorite things – such as fun Packed Party Disco Drinks, a polaroid camera or even artwork. However, during an event the shelves offer multiple surfaces to display plates, flatware, straws, wine glasses, and any other party supplies that may be overflowing from our bar cart.

Give big personality to small spaces. The smallest space in our office is actually the most popular. It’s a small room that was once used for a washer/dryer, now features our favorite item in the studio – a pink SMEG refrigerator that is brought to life by Lulu and Georgia’s bold floral wallpaper on all sides. We then found a perfectly sized shelf from Wayfair to place next to the SMEG, filling out the awkward, extra space and the covering some electrical equipment. This room also serves as a bright and cheerful passageway to the outdoor patio to keep our guests excited while moving throughout the entire space.

Opt For Versatile Of Seating Options. Instead of selecting heavy couches and chairs, I selected an eclectic mix of seating options ranging from a lightweight settee to an upholstered bench that can be moved from room to room, providing additional guest seating when necessary. Use cheerful accents to give a room more character and personality, I’m also obsessed with our heart ottomans which are OH Joy for Target. They are extremely lightweight and are great seating alternatives that are Instagram friendly!

5 Relaxed Bachelorette Weekend Trip Destinations

Bachelorette parties often have a reputation for being wild and crazy weekends full of late nights out, fancy dresses, and locales like Vegas and Miami. But that type of party isn’t for everyone. Luckily, there are tons of locations that tailor to every kind of bride, including those who just want a few days of relaxation. From nature-focused weekends to days spent at the spa, you’ll be in bachelorette bliss no matter your tastes.

Photography: Erin McGinn | Styling: Abby Capalbo

THE HAMPTONS
If the wine country is your dream destination, but you’re on the East Coast, head to the Hamptons. Here, local vineyards have live music and host private wine tastings, blending nicely with your weekend full of hassle-free elegance and fun. Head to East Hampton for upscale shopping (and possible celeb sightings) or Montauk for local stores selling beach-wares. Afterward, saunter over to a local bar for a night out, or stay in and enjoy views of the ocean (or possibly a pool) and the beautiful weather while cooking a homemade meal.

AUSTIN
Calling all nature lovers: Austin is for you. The newly trendy destination is full of outdoor-friendly (and wallet-friendly) activities for you and your girls. Head here in warmer months to take advantage of things like Barton Springs, a natural pool where you can spend the day frolicking in the water and sunbathing, and Town Lake, a spot offering paddleboarding, canoeing and kayaking. At night, see a show at a variety of venues that play live music every night of the week or gain confidence by spending the evening belting out your favorite tunes at karaoke.

Photography: Jose Villa

NAPA

Does a weekend sipping wine in the country’s most beautiful vineyards sound ideal for you? Then consider Napa for your bachelorette trip. Daytime can be spent exploring the wineries on planned wine tours—one company even takes you around in an old vintage car!—and enjoying the beautiful weather of Napa Valley. Once the wine is tapped, head to lunch and then spend the rest of the afternoon at a day spa or shopping at local boutiques. Nights are full of swanky cocktail lounges, bars with low-key live music, and of course, tons of wine.

NAPLES

Miami isn’t the only Florida destination brides and bridesmaids flock to for bachelorette celebrations. For a sleepy, yet still tropical and upbeat vibe, head to Naples. Days are filled with beach time, either relaxing on the sand or having fun on the water via jet skis, kayaks and more. Book a cooking class at Sur la Table for a different take on dinner or opt for an early meal in downtown Naples, giving you time to walk around the area and explore the quaint shops nearby once you finish (don’t worry, the sun shines well into the evening). A few hours in, and you’ll quickly realize why Naples is consistently voted as one of the best places to live in the U.S.

Photography: Corbin Gurkin

CHARLESTON

Pink houses, great shopping, foodie-centric restaurants: all reasons Charleston is a top pick for a weekend away with your best friends. Pick a few restaurants to visit before you get there and make a reservation (they fill up quickly!), then let the rest of the weekend be full of relaxing. Walk around the downtown area, where local boutiques and favorite chains mix together, alongside little coffee shops and outdoor markets. If you’re into history, take a boat ride to Fort Sumter, or stick to land and sip cocktails on the rooftop at the Pavillion Bar or Stars Restaurant. At night, head to Cure Nightclub for DJ’s and dancing or Craft Conundrum for an evening of brews and food trucks.

No matter which locale you choose, you and your girls will leave feeling relaxed, fulfilled, and even more eager for the most exciting event of all: your wedding.

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

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Jose Villa Photography

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The Bride’s Blush Gown Set the Tone for Amazing Bridal Portraits

Bridal portraits are a must, in my opinion. Especially when they mean stepping into a blush pink Hayley Paige gown, cozying up with your love, and Carmen Santorelli capturing it all behind the lens. With a bountiful spring-inspired bouquet to complete the look, you’re guaranteed to get images you’ll treasure for a lifetime – see for yourself right here!

Catherine and Brian had a really intimate wedding, so Catherine had been dreaming ever since of having beautiful portraits done with her husband. They flew in all the way from Connecticut to have their photos taken at Sunset Cliffs. Wearing the most incredible blush Hayley Paige gown, Manolo Blahnik shoes, and complete with stunning spring florals, Catherine and Brian relived their wedding day and had a blast in the California sun!

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A Beaulieu Garden Wedding with Undeniable Elegance

Anytime a Beaulieu Garden celebration lands in our laps, we just know it’s going to be a beaut. That ivy covered trellis gets us each and every time and when paired with the design of Simone Lennon Events + florals by Brown Paper Design and delicious fare by Paula LeDuc Fine Catering, the result is as elegant as can be. Grab a front row seat to the festivities with imagery by Josh Gruetzmacher and a film by Forward Motion Production below.

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Fall Weddings

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From the Bride… My husband and I are very connected to the outdoors and the tranquility of nature so when looking for venues we sought a location that embodied those aspects of our personalities. We looked at upwards of 14 venues and when we saw Beaulieu Garden we just knew. The fact that it was an outdoor venue sold us immediately. All the various nooks and hideouts in the property drew us in and gave so much dimension to the venue. Whether it was the fountain, the Italian garden, or the trellis area, we were amazed that the beauty of the grounds and were sold! Our style is very romantic and whimsical but with a little drama and elegance. We definitely went more in the direction of a “Napa-style” wedding but traded some of the rustic country feel for a chic cosmopolitan look that embodied our New York roots. There’s no way to express how incredible it is to see the planning and creation come to life before our eyes. One of the best feelings was seeing how other people reacted to our vision. Every small detail came together to so elegantly and perfectly. We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day to come together as soul mates and best friends. We always joke that we make the impossible because it was incredible how we found each other and that on this day the impossible came true.

Sometimes the Simplest Bridal Session Is the Prettiest

Simple is beautiful. Don’t believe us? Take one look at this romantic bridal inspiration session by Ruby & Rose Event Planning and Design. Warm pink hues are contrasted with cool blues in an uncluttered setting, letting each swoon-worthy detail shine. See some of our favorites below, then go to the gallery to view the whole gorgeous shoot captured by Samantha Kirk Photography.

From Ruby & Rose Event Planning and Design… We are always inspired by creating visual contrasts in design, whether it’s with texture, color, pattern, or even design influence. In this editorial, we wanted to explore the contrast and play between warm pink hues and cool blue tones, as well as the juxtaposition of soft, romantic textures against a clean, minimal aesthetic. After meeting our model Hannah, we knew we wanted to keep her hair and makeup simple and soft to highlight her striking features and stunning red hair. We particularly love the moment Samantha captured of Hannah reading a love letter from her betrothed in Kelsey Malie’s beautiful script – a handwritten letter is such a romantic gesture!

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Petit Bouquet

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Time Seems to Stop for This Mexico City Bridal Inspo

Flickering candlelight, rich hued blooms, and a picturesque historical venue where times seems to have stopped set the stage for this Mexico City bridal shoot, dreamed up by Aurelia Eventos and Nancy Liu Chin Floral + Event Design. Kevin Chin Photography effortlessly captured their vision of a quaint and romantic reception, and we have it all for you right here in the Vault.

From Nancy Liu Chin Floral + Event Design… When I was planning my own wedding to photographer Kevin Chin, I wanted a small wedding with one single long table and just a dozen family and close friends sharing a beautiful but thoughtful meal. I pictured a romantic gown that was either strapless or slightly cap sleeved, fresh yet bold accented flowers that were lush and flowey, and light from tapered candles flicking as the sun set in a picturesque villa far, far away from my own urban city life in San Francisco. Kevin also wanted a small wedding with little fanfare as the most interesting part of the wedding is the journey, and a destination wedding would be on heck of a beautiful journey. Though Kevin and I didn’t quite have that dream wedding (blame the parents), we still dream that dream.

Often when I design a wedding, I hope for a client who will take me to a romantic villa in the South of France, Tuscany, English countryside, or rural Mexico, so when the opportunity came to collaborate with Claudia Chapa of Aurelia Eventos on an inspired wedding shoot in Mexico City, I couldn’t stop myself. I should say WE couldn’t stop ourselves, so we jumped in without pause.

Our inspired design included Mexican tile work, vintage books wrapped with twine, mojito hued velvet ribbon in a spool, romantic lace, and citrus colors. Mexico City itself was a surprisingly wonderful and welcoming backdrop. Often people forget that Mexico, in particularly Mexico City, was greatly influenced by Europe – especially Spain and France. Claudia was our wonderful coordinator and eye on the street, and she searched high and low for a venue in Mexico City that felt like it belonged in a rural, romantic, quaint Mexican village but was in fact in historical, downtown Mexico City. The charming Universidad del Claustro de Sor Juana, which holds large wedding receptions, was the perfect venue. We hope you love it as much as Claudia and we do.

Summer Lake Wedding With a Boat Grand Exit!

The groom’s family has lived on Lake Barcroft for more than 40 years, so this couple knew it was the perfect spot for their summertime wedding. They planned a quiet ceremony outdoors followed up a classic tented reception with a boat ride on the lake for an unforgettable grand exit. Clarence Chan photographed and you can see even more waiting in the gallery.

From the bride… Our wedding on Lake Barcroft was such a meaningful day in many ways. Dave’s family has lived on the lake for over 40 years and it holds many special memories for us. We knew once we were engaged that was where we wanted our friends and family to gather for our wedding day. There is a beautiful park on the lake that was just the right venue – lined with trees and flowers that made for a natural setting and amazing photos!

When we picked our August date for an outdoor wedding we knew we would need to plan for weather and it’s a good thing we did! As we anxiously watched the weather forecast leading up to our day, we saw increasing chances of rain but held out hope for our ceremony overlooking the lake. On the day, we ended up flipping the ceremony and cocktail hour, bringing everyone under the tent for a passing thunderstorm, and then the sunshine came out during the ceremony! The rain gave way to a beautiful afternoon surrounded by all our loved ones…and the ice cream treats helped keep everyone cool.

We ended the day with a farewell from friends before taking the boat for a ride back home. We waved to friends on the lake as we passed by in our wedding attire and enjoyed the most beautiful sunset. The perfect ending to our perfect day on the lake.

Major Bridal Inspo at This Springtime Kentucky Farm Shoot

What’s more idyllic than a Kentucky farm during sunset? After looking at this springtime wedding shoot by Morgan Worley Photography, we’re convinced – not much. From the romantic calligraphy on the stationery suite to the lace, long-sleeved bodice of the bride’s gown, you’re sure to be inspired. Even more pretty waiting for you, right this way.

From Morgan Worley Photography… We wanted to capture the beauty of springtime, and the newest Kentucky venue, Ironwood, was the ideal setting with its breathtaking landscape. Our beautiful, real life couple’s romantic cuddles and light-hearted fun moments bring to light the happiness and joy that arises when winter disappears and the birds and leaves return for another season of new life and sunshine. Petal and Pine’s bouquet and Cakery’s adorable cake perfectly complement the lace and tulle dresses from Regiss Bridal. Sarah B. Calligraphy brought the entire shoot together with her pops of peachy pink.

Peek Into a Football Player + Model’s Mountaintop Wedding

Set atop a gorgeous mountain overlooking Washington, this wedding not only has views for days but also details that highlight natural, unabashed beauty. From a neutral, elegant color palette to greenery infused florals crafted by Kaleb Norman James Design and a couple that’s equal parts former NFL star and Entrepreneur/ model, there’s not an inch of this celebration that isn’t absolutely breathtaking. See every last pretty image captured by Sally Pinera with even more in the vault.

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Rustic Weddings

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Rustic

From the Photographer… Surrounded by mountains, evergreens, and and the splendor of Seattle mountains, former Denver Broncos wide receiver, D’Andre and model/entrepreneur wed at the beautiful Switftwater Cellars in Washington. Blending earthy, rustic and elegant details, Kaleb from Kaleb Norman James Design, created a gorgeous neutral toned palette. Rian wore an Alexandra Grecco gown that was elegant and simple, highlighting her natural beauty. Simple but beautiful details were included in this wedding such as: lots of greenery, different cakes of different flavors, lots of ivories and greens in centerpieces, and hints of blue with the Jenny Yoo bridemaids gowns and groomsmen blue suits.

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When a Victorian Garden Plays Backdrop to Your Wedding…

This couple shares a love of the great outdoors, so when they began planning their Pittsburgh summer wedding, a whimsical day designed with wildflowers and natural greens was an obvious choice. They fully embraced in-season blooms and Mt. Lebanon Floral delivered in every way. Peek at their reception space (and entire day!) photographed by Joey Kennedy and you’ll leave utterly inspired.

From the bride… Cary and I met in college down in South Carolina where we both shared our love for adventure and outdoors. A year or so after graduation, Cary proposed to me when we were at home for Christmas. It was wonderful to have my whole family around to celebrate this exciting event. Shortly after we were engaged we made a big move from South Carolina to Colorado, so we could continue sharing our love of outdoors together.

The wedding was inspired by our love of the outdoors, plants, and the mountains. We had the wedding in Pittsburgh where my immediate and large extended family all reside since we are a close knit group.

We were planning the wedding while living in Colorado, so my mother was a huge help in orchestrating everything. Our vendors were absolutely wonderful, and we thank our florist, Carmel, for her creativity. We told her we wanted a somewhat whimsical and bohemian feel that really showcased the local, in season wildflowers and greenery. She came through and brought us more than we could have imagined. The tent, flowers, lighting, music, and photography all came together wonderfully to create the unique and colorful day we had imagined. It had a beautiful woodland feel with a relaxed atmosphere, just like we wanted.

Handmade at Amazon Has a Wedding Shop… And It’s Everything

Putting your own personal touch on a wedding that is totally unique + totally YOU is every bride’s dream, no matter your style. But if you happen to fall squarely in that camp of non-crafty ladies (it happens to the best of us), we have a solution: Handmade at Amazon’s Wedding Shop. Yep, this little slice of wedding heaven has everything you’ll ever need to celebrate in style, sans all of those stressful nights yelling at your glue gun. It’s pure genius, you guys. Scroll for all of the reasons we love it so, so much.

RUSTIC

You obviously can’t have a rustic shindig without a few handmade items to really make the day shine, but if you’re running out of time in your wedding planning day to put together those wooden banners you’ve been obsessing over, no worries. Handmade at Amazon’s Wedding Shop has it all. From fab rustic cake toppers to the perfect headpiece that will totally make your outfit, your dream day is literally right at your fingertips. And bonus? You can plan it all in your yoga pants.

1. Wooden Cards Banner 2. Vintage Wedding Guest Book 3. Polka Dot Bow Tie 4. Better Together Cake Topper 5. Gold Wedding Crown Bridal Tiara

MODERN

Weaving goodies from Handmade at Amazon’s Wedding Shop into your contemporary day is THE perfect way to add a touch of you + yours to your celebration. Some of our faves? These glittery gold accents, geometric card holders and this awesome cocktail sign (such a statement-maker). Not to mention, it’s also the best way ever to shop for decor, because, well… it’s Amazon. Think a totally relaxing evening, a glass of bubbly and your good friend, The Laptop. It just doesn’t get any easier.

1. Large Geometric Conservatory Envelope Holder 2. Wedding Cocktails Sign 3. Mr. & Mrs. Mug Set 4. Wooden Table Letters 5. Groomsmen Copper Tie Set

CLASSIC

Classic weddings with a sweet personalized touch are sort of our jam. So sifting through all of the beauties in Handmade at Amazon’s Wedding Shop is most def one of our fave pastimes. From the cutest napkin to a gorgeous bridal headband to a rubber stamp to help you dress up those invites, join us in perusing the pretty and you’ll be checking off those Pinterest must-haves in no time at all. We promise.

1. Old Hollywood Glamour Bridal Headband 2. Eat & Celebrate Napkin 3. Personalized Address Stamp 4. Wedding Album Instant Guest Book 5. Single Pearl Necklace

We know that wedding planning isn’t always easy. Especially when you are trying to DIY your way to a totally unique and totally YOU event. So whether you’re planning to say “I do” in a sweet rustic barn, your childhood church or a penthouse in NYC, Handmade at Amazon’s Wedding Shop is your go-to for all of those goodies that will really make your Big Day shine. Oh, and it will seriously save your sanity. Go there NOW, you guys.

A Whimsical Wedding With Bagpipes + Pool Swans

Boy from Glasgow, Scotland meets girl from Marin County, California. They fall in love in Sydney, Australia and decide to live happily ever after together. Anna Wu Photography captures this fairytale status wedding complete with the cutest couple, bagpipes and tartan, friends and family from all over the world, and even two pool swans for an extra dose of whimsy.

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Summer Weddings

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From Anna Wu Photography… The California girl traveled to Sydney in search of a new adventure and eager to live the beach bum life. She was vegan at the time – though that didn’t last long once she started working at “Hurricane’s,” a steak house by Bondi Beach. It was there that she would meet fellow coworker Cameron, who was also just temporarily in Australia. Through his thick accent, Liz could barely tell that he was saying his name was Cameron and he was from Scotland when they met (she may have thought he was Irish and his name was Colin). But they hit it off and ended up dating long distance for a while before deciding to move back to Sydney together to give their relationship a chance.

They lived together in Bondi, where they shared a love of the beach despite not really liking the ocean. And as they grew closer, their families would meet one another and hang out in all three places: Sydney, Australia; Glasgow, Scotland; and Marin County, California. It was fitting that for their wedding, they would be married in a simple and elegant backyard celebration back in California at Liz’s family home. It was the perfect gathering of friends and family from all over the world, with a few Scottish traditions, two adorable pool swans, and a hearty dose of tears and laughter thrown in.

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Maggie Sottero

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Look No Further: Your Wedding Dress Decision Is Written In The Stars

It’s your day and you want to look more than just good, you want to look amazing. So how do you find that perfect wedding dress, the one that makes your beauty shine, the dress that makes everyone gasp, the look that is yours and yours alone? Astrology can give you cosmic clues on finding the dress that fits your special elemental nature and enhances the most positive traits of your star sign.

Aries
Untraditional, bold and bright are your signature looks. You are pioneering and brave and you may want to reflect these qualities in your choice of a dress. So think of incorporating reds and purples, unique designs and modern touches into your look.

Taurus
Sensual and soft are two of your most valued qualities in a dress. Look for fabrics like silk, satin and velvet. You also thrive on luxurious touches and so your dress may have unique embroidery, jewels or other special “extras” interwoven into your design.

Gemini
Flirty and fun, you want a dress that allows you to circulate and talk to as many people at your wedding as you can. Look for a simple, intelligent design that may have some geometric touches. You appreciate a “smart” look over one that is too fussy.

Cancer
Your romantic nature loves anything vintage. You’ll be drawn to a more traditional look that incorporates the past. Mom or even Grandma’s dress may be the perfect choice for you, especially if you have a strong attachment to your family.

Leo
Dramatic and luxurious are your key words and your dress needs to reflect your passionate, fiery nature. You’ll want a top of the line design, no expense spared and a dress that maximizes all of your assets.

Virgo
You love a clean natural look, so your best dress will incorporate fabrics like raw silk, bamboo or organic cotton and a hand dyed or one of a kind artisan design. Simple and green are your themes, with a focus on honoring the earth.

Libra
Balance, beauty and harmony are so important to you that your dress needs to be a work of art. If you don’t actually design it yourself, you may commission a design. You want to feel feminine, but without too much fuss, so look for a classic design with a modern touch.

Scorpio
If anyone would wear a black dress it would be you, Scorpio. But you don’t need to wear black to get in touch with your intense, smoky, sexy self. Just find a dress that accentuates your figure, while still leaving something to the imagination.

Sagittarius
Your dress may reflect influences from your travels, or your spiritual or religious beliefs. If you are a more adventurous Sag, your gypsy nature will want to express itself through a wedding day look that is bohemian and fun.

Capricorn
If anyone chooses to wear a wedding pantsuit rather than a dress it would be you Capricorn. You are all the more tailored, sophisticated look. But since you also love glamour and tradition you may stick with a classic style wedding dress as well.

Aquarius
Unique, unconventional and outside the box, your wedding dress needs to be different from the norm. Look for a special design that no one else has, a new fabric or a look that is unusual and cutting edge and all will be well.

Pisces
You will want a dress that has a touch of the magical to it. Something mysterious, dreamy and poetic. A soft bohemian look or something vintage with beautiful fabric will complement your mystical nature perfectly.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Fern Spring is an astrologer, wellness writer and flower essence practitioner from Northern California where she lives with her dog and her guy in the beautiful West County of Sonoma.

When High School Sweethearts Reconnect, the Result Is Beautiful

It’s something special when high school sweethearts tie the knot, but this bride and groom’s celebration at The Allan House planned by Westcott Weddings is especially heartwarming. Life had taken them in different directions after high school, but they reconnected and decided to finally say, “I do,” in a wedding as beautiful as their love story. From the draping by Marquee and linens by La Tavola to the floral arbor and bistro chairs, Julie Wilhite Photography captured every romantic detail.

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Spring Weddings

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Weddings in Historical Venues

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Whimsical

From Ellen of Westcott Weddings… Joanne and Jeff have one of my favorite love stories of all time! They were high school sweethearts – as in they attended their high school homecomings and proms together! After high school, college, and life took them in different directions until they reconnected several years ago through Facebook. They were able to pick right back up where they left off!

They envisioned an intimate, elegant celebration with their closest family and friends, and The Allan House provided the perfect backdrop. Working together, we designed around an “early spring” palette of lavender and plum, which worked out perfectly because we ended up getting a warm, spring-like day for their February nuptials! Joanne’s style is a bit more whimsical, while Jeff’s is more modern, so we worked to balance the two throughout the space. At the ceremony, lush florals and bistro chairs were paired with groupings of more modern, geometric lanterns and pillar candles. At dinner, guests dined under a ceiling of twinkling lights at long, feasting tables.

A couple of our favorite design details from the day: When we flipped the tent for dinner, the ceremony arbor became the perfect backdrop for their delicious lemon cake. Marquee installed beautiful, blush draping on the stage to frame out the DJ, and Clementine added growing greenery to complete the look and tie the stage in with the rest of the space. The purple color palette was perfect for their day – it was at once light and springlike and also romantic and moody.

What we’ll remember most, though, was all the love felt throughout the day. Each guest was truly overjoyed for them and thrilled to be there to celebrate. We also loved that Jeff and Joanne walked down the aisle accompanied by their children (and later had special “first dances” with them)! This was such a wonderful day, and we were honored to help bring all of the details together to make it happen.

A Classic Fall Wedding by the Sea

Any party that ends with s’mores is a good one in our book and our theory holds true with this classic Fall wedding set on the coast of New Jersey. It marries the colors of our favorite season, think deep reds and plums, with the beauty of the coastline and the result is pure magic. With florals and the prettiest garlands crafted by Katydid plus imagery by Amy Rizzuto and the perfect film by Between Sleep & Awake too, get excited for the return of the best ever season with this celebration.

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Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall. – Scott E. Fitzgerald

Chelsea and Chris were married on a beautiful fall day at Mallard Island Yacht Club. The sun was shining, the air was crisp, and a full rainbow arched perfectly over the water outside. Chelsea spent the morning sipping champagne and laughing with her bridesmaids in the gorgeous bridal suite. Her mom and her sister helped her slip in her lace and ivory Pronovias gown before her first look with her father and then Chris! Both were filled with so much love and emotion and were some of my favorite moments of the day. As guest arrived to the open air ceremony on the water, they were treated to apple cider and hot chocolate with homemade marshmallows and caramels. The tears continued to flow as Chris watched Chelsea walk down the aisle. Their parents glanced back and forth between them, proud looks upon their faces. Chelsea and Chris exchanged personal vows before sharing their first kiss as husband and wife! They celebrated their marriage by dining, dancing, and making smores by the fire with family and friends.

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Jenny Yoo

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One Peek at This Modern Kitchen and You’ll Be Tile Dreaming for a Month

This backsplash, oh this backsplash. From the second we laid eyes on this modern kitchen redo it was all we could think about. And we have Jennifer Muirhead to thank for that. Designed for a young family on the go, the space combines bright, modern details, chic yet wipeable surfaces (hello laminated bench fabric!) and that gorgeous Moorish tile we can’t stop talking about. Take the full tour captured by Amy Bartlam right here.

My clients are a young, on-the-go family living in the heart of Los Angeles. I had worked with them previously helping them decorate the rest of their home, and they were finally ready to demo their dark, galley-style kitchen and bring in some light! They already have amazing taste to begin with, so the real challenge here was maximizing the square footage and creating a beautiful space that could hold up to the demands of a young family.

This translated into tons of accessible storage for the kids’ art supplies, making sure every surface was wipeable (laminating bench fabrics!) and plenty of seating (a breakfast and counter stools at the island). My client loves to cook and never thought she’d be able to have that giant, “dream kitchen” island, but by pushing into the patio just a bit, we were able to give her that extra space that’s customized just for her.

I think we struck the perfect balance between staying true to the clients’ modern taste (lots of straight lines, honed Carrara and brushed brass hardware) while acknowledging the home’s 1920’s Spanish Revival architecture (using a Moorish influenced tile backsplash over the sink). I know my client was happy with everything when she told me the evening they moved back in, she woke up in the middle of the night to bake cookies because she just had to cook something!

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Photography: Amy Bartlam | Construction: Bella Built | Interior Design: Jennifer Muirhead

Your Visual Playbook to a Luxe Parisian Wedding

Paris is a city where some serious wedding magic happens. Especially when MC2 Mon Amour, Tuan Nguyen Films, and Greg Finck are involved. Consider this inspiration shoot an ode to their beloved city, ready to inspire the most glamorous of days.

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From the planner, MC2 Mon Amour… Paris is a symbol of romanticism and elegance so we took the time to contemplate the beauty of our city. At the heart of the most famous monuments of the world, the Shangri-La Hotel, Paris allowed us to create a luxury atmosphere and a perfect wedding day.

The bride is getting ready in the Suite Shangri-La to become “Madame” while admiring the “Grande Dame”. The groom has just some few minutes to wait in the secret garden of the Shangri-La Hotel, Paris to discover his bride, more gorgeous than ever. They climb together the “Escalier d’Honneur” stairs, enjoying every moment spent in the palace at the heart of the most beautiful city in the world.

They discover with admiration the amazing work done by the artisans for their big day!

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Photography: Erin McGinn | Styling: Abby Capalbo

Photography: Jose Villa

Photography: Corbin Gurkin

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From Our Partners

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