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8 Things They Never Tell You Will Happen When You’re Expecting

You can take the birthing, breastfeeding, and parenting classes and learn valuable information to guide you through the craziness that is motherhood – but we are unveiling eight things they don’t warn you about! Pregnancy is such a precious time and we want to make sure you know everything. And we mean everything!

 

EVERYONE WILL HAVE AN OPINION…. ABOUT EVERYTHING.

Although it mostly comes from those with good intentions, everyone has an opinion or suggestion for you. Whether it’s deciding between a home birth or hospital birth, breast feeding or bottle feeding, baby name options, and more, you will quickly find out everyone has a strong opinion. You should listen but at the end of the day you have to do what YOU want and feel most comfortable with!

SAY GOODBYE TO YOUR PERSONAL SPACE!

Trust us, you will need to turn into a security guard for your own body. From family members, to friends, to strangers on the street, you will have people grabbing for your growing baby bump without warning!

YOUR BODY IS GOING TO CHANGE, BEYOND YOUR BUMP…

Your boobs will look great, but they will be extremely sore. Your hair might seem to be growing inches overnight! Your skin will change — for better or for worse. Your feet may swell and get much bigger. Oh, and your sense of smell will be on overdrive. Try to embrace it all, that’s all you really can do!

IT MAY TAKE TIME TO BOND WITH YOUR BABY

Don’t get discouraged if it takes time to bond with your new little one. For some of us, it can take weeks or sometimes even a few months to feel that attachment. Don’t stress, you are a wonderful mom!

YOU’LL WORRY – A LOT!

It’s natural to worry, especially when this is your first pregnancy, but worrying will be your new favorite hobby for the next nine months. Is my baby healthy? Will my baby be cute? Am I ready for this? Should I be eating this? Am I going to have stretch marks? Just to name a few!

YOU SHOULD BE DOING PELVIC FLOOR EXERCISES

Just trust us, this will only help you during birth and after! Here is more information from Fit Pregnancy.

 

PEOPLE WILL SAY AWKWARD THINGS ABOUT YOUR BODY

Again, this is all in good intentions but people will say some weird things about your body. It’s such a beautiful & crazy process so you can expect some beautiful and definitely crazy comments!

MOTHERHOOD WILL LEAD YOU TO SOME OF THE BEST FRIENDSHIPS

It’s an amazing thing to be able to bond on a similar experience and all us moms are in this together! Find your tribe, but also don’t be afraid to befriend women outside your typical circle. We all have something to learn from each other.

A Springtime Wedding with Florals Literally Dripping from the Ceiling

Florals play a starring role in this Sausalito affair, second only to the gorgeous couple. And the term florals probably doesn’t suffice. We’re talking full blown hanging installations that are beyond measure. See how A Savvy Event and Shotgun Floral Studio brought Spring blooms indoors for this classic San Francisco celebration captured so perfectly by Feather and Stone.

From the Event Planner… As residents of Sausalito, Anna and Dave were inspired by the California landscape when planning their wedding with Kelly, of A Savvy Event. They wanted the atmosphere to feel natural and wild, borrowing from the beauty of Marin county. As a result, the main focus of the decor for their wedding day was florals. Shotgun Floral Studio created an incredible hanging floral installation on site to transform the reception space. Bringing the outdoors inside, quite literally, created a garden ambiance within the ballroom of Cavallo Point. The wildly colorful arrangements that lined the tables and hung from the ceiling surrounded Anna and Dave’s guests in a whirlwind of floral beauty. This was a theme that carried throughout the entire wedding day, starting with the focus on floral design at the ceremony, and transforming each and every space that the guests experienced.

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Photography: Feather and Stone Photography | Event Planning: A Savvy Event | Floral Design: Shotgun Floral Studio | Invitations: Yonder Design | Lighting: Twilight Design | Band: Jay Siegan Presents | Transportation: Pure Luxury | Day of Stationery : Underwood Letterpress | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Bright Event Rentals | Rentals: Found Rental Co. | Rentals: Encore Events Rentals | Rentals: Frances Lane | Rentals: Shelter Co

Hanging Twinkle Lights Make a Magical Wedding

Set beneath a 250-year old weeping willow tree in the garden at Saddlerock Ranch and surrounded by the rolling hills of Malibu, this couple said “I do” in an absolutely picturesque ceremony. The natural beauty of their So Cal surroundings was enhanced with whimsical florals and an oak arch, and the magic continued at the al fresco reception, with guests dancing beneath twinkle lights hanging from the trees. Valentina Glidden captured the beauty of the evening, and we have it all for you right here.

Colors
Settings
Vineyard
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Al Fresco

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Photography: Valentina Glidden | Cinematography: The Cub Team | Event Planning and Design: CCL Weddings & Events | Floral Design: Green Leaf Designs | Cake: M Cakes Sweets | Stationery: Mari Chang | Catering: Hungry Bear | Hair and Makeup: Studio MM&B | Band: Downbeat La | Venue: Saddlerock Ranch | Beverage Services: Sunseri's | Desserts: Salina's Churro Truck | Desserts: Neveux Ice Cream | Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: A Rental Connection

Beach Wedding Perfection in Punta Cana

This Punta Cana celebration has all the makings of beach wedding perfection: the private, white sandy shores of Huracan Cafe; a windswept, flowing gown by Truvelle; tropical, DIY floral crowns; and a glowing bride with romantic (waterproof!) makeup by Christine Cho Beauty. Best of all, Joee Wong Photography and Elle & Be Films captured the whole thing. Get ready to pack your bags, because this gorgeous destination wedding will have you booking a flight to the Dominican Republic.

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From the Bride… Tom and I met back in university at a Christian conference and were re-introduced to each other by his sister, Candice, and my good friend, Reggie, 10 years later. He lived in Little Rock, Arkansas, and I was in Toronto, Ontario, so we added each other on Facebook and began to get to know each other. It took four months of Facebook Messenger and texting on the phone before we went on our first official date over the Christmas holidays in 2013. His ability to do muscle-ups on gymnastics rings at the rock climbing facility we went to for one of our dates totally won me over! We became official in the new year and began our journey being in a long distance relationship. We made it a promise to make plans to see each every two to three months, so then began our adventures: surfing in Costa Rica, driving along the West Coast and taking hikes under the giant Redwood trees, experiencing my first real southern barbecue in Memphis, and leaving our mark outside Elvis’ home. It soon became evident we wanted to go on many adventures together for the rest of our lives.

Tom proposed to me the following year on Christmas Day, and the first challenge we faced was where to have the wedding. Having witnessed many local weddings being a wedding planner myself, I didn’t want to have a conventional wedding in a banquet hall, so we decided to look into more fun destinations and ended up choosing Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. I came across Mayte and Natalia’s work through a local photographer and knew I could trust them fully with bringing my vision to life. I chose the venue because of the planners, and boy did they deliver. Floating floral arrangements over our tables, lace and pearl accents on dinner napkins, chandeliers and beautifully decorated statement doors… The list goes on. Every single detail was on point, and we were beyond impressed with how they transformed the restaurant and beach into the most beautiful venue any bride could ever imagine. We didn’t have to deal with other hotel guests standing around peeping in on our wedding ceremony and reception. It felt so intimate (even with 80 guests) and romantic just doing our own thing.

Leading up to the trip, my family and bridesmaids worked like busy bees to make DIY flower crowns and various elements of our welcome bags which included everything from sunblock and lip balm to emergency hangover kits and spicy Ramyun noodles for a late night snack. My good friend, Sarah, designed my beautiful welcome bag graphics all by hand and managed to pull off a last minute request to create a passport booklet so all our guests had an idea as to what to expect for the week.

Tom and I wanted to make the most of our time on the island with our family and friends, so we booked a boat trip excursion a day before our wedding so everyone could get to know one another and just have an amazing time exploring the sea. The day after our wedding, we took our photographers and videographers with us to a nearby waterhole for a trash the dress session. Can I just say, waterproof makeup is one of the best inventions out there? Jumping in the water multiple times proved no challenge for my flawless makeup, thanks to my incredibly talented makeup artist, Christine. Our photos from that afternoon are to die for!

As we look back on the photos from our wedding week, our hearts are filled with so much joy and happiness. We are so thankful to all our families, friends and wedding “friendors” who came all the way to the Dominican Republic to make our wedding week so special. We would do it all again in a heartbeat. Maybe a 20-year vow renewal? We’ll see.

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Photography: Joee | Cinematography: Elle & Be Wedding and Lifestyle Cinematography | Wedding Dress: Truvelle | Shoes: Etsy | Bridesmaids' Dresses: BCBG | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Lulu's | Makeup: Christine Cho Beauty | Hair: Suzie Kim | Venue: Hurican Cafe | Venue: Hurican Cafe | Bride's Floral Crown: Jewel Feathers | Bridesmaids' Floral Crowns: DIY | Graphics and Branding: Yntegrity Marketing & Sales Inc | Welcome Bags: Sarah Chung Design

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A Philadelphia Wedding That’ll Go Down in History

Elfreth’s Alley, lovingly referred to as “our nation’s oldest residential street,” is also quite possibly our nation’s cutest. Just look at this darling duo photographed by Elizabeth Nord while walking arm-in-arm down the charming, cobblestone road on their wedding day! We can’t think of a better place to start your marriage than in a location as rich with the history of past loves as it is beautiful. Take a stroll through this Philadelphia wedding, in the Vault.

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From Elizabeth Nord PhotographyLeo and Sarah chose to celebrate their beautiful wedding in downtown Philadelphia at the Ballroom at the Ben. They decided on this location so that friends and family from New Jersey, Miami, Brazil, and everywhere in between could join them on their special day. For months they had anticipated snow and cold temperatures, but everyone was surprised with sunshine and 40 degree temps on the wedding day, which was absolutely beautiful! We were like frolicking little kids once we went outside, we were so happy!

I absolutely loved all the special attention that was put into their wedding day details. Their stationery featured a drawing of the Philadelphia skyline, which incorporated the famous Liberty Bell, City Hall, and even the LOVE statue! Sarah gifted a pair of cufflinks to Leo that had the Alabama map on them. Alabama us special to them both since they first met at a wedding in Alabama, and it’s also where Leo proposed to Sarah a few years later. I’m also particularly fond of the florals Sarah chose for the bouquets. Tulips are one of my favorite flowers, and who doesn’t love a classic, white bouquet?

Believe it or not, Sarah is the very first bride I’ve ever had wear a fur wrap on her wedding day, and I hope to see more of them – so pretty and cozy! The bridesmaids wore stunning, navy sequin gowns, and the groomsmen wore the most dapper navy suits. I had so much fun working with this group of friends at the top of the Loews Philadelphia Hotel and also on Elfreth’s Alley! Sarah had two first looks – one with her dad and one with Leo. There’s something so unique about a daddy-daughter first look, and they never cease to give me all the feels!

Leo and Sarah were married at the Saint Augustine Catholic Church and celebrated with a travel themed reception at the stunning Ballroom at the Ben. I totally geeked out when I found out that it’s the same ballroom where they filmed the dance competition scene from “Silver Linings Playbook”! Each table was decorated to feature a different city where they had traveled together, including Seattle, New York, Paris, and Cairo. The place cards were luggage tags with each guest’s name printed inside, and the head table featured a globe with “Leo and Sarah” written on it. It was such a beautiful day, and I loved seeing the love that they share for one another. Nothing makes my heart happier than to photograph such genuine emotion and the kind of love that can move mountains.

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Photography: Elizabeth Nord Photography | Floral Design: FabuFloras | Wedding Dress: Kitty Chen Couture | Cake: Termini Bros | Stationery: Minted | Ceremony Venue: St Augustine | Reception Venue: Union Trust | Catering: Union Trust | Makeup: I DO Hair and Makeup | Hair: Happily Ever After Hair | DJ: Silver Sound | Transportation: Philadelphia Trolley Works | Groom's and Groomsmen's Attire: Generation Tux

A Neutral, Modern Nursery with a Fun and Feminine Twist

My favorite obsession is nursery design. I swear I plan nurseries in my head even when I’m not expecting and all the cute spaces we share on SMP Living are definitely a perk of the job or a major part of the problem. From the wildly cute wallpaper to the perfectly stocked bookshelves and, of course the leading babes themselves, see why I just can’t quit nurseries with this latest installment captured by Emily Gerald.

From the mama(and designer)… I think I was only nine weeks pregnant when we picked the fabric for the chair, it was called “Caribbean Waters,” which felt so warm and personal. We didn’t know if we were having a boy or a girl but I loved the brightness figured we would make it work no matter what. When I found out we were having a girl, I was so excited. I felt like I had been granted an opportunity to create a space that would sort of be a canvas for her to be whoever she wanted to be. So of course, it began as a neutral nursery. Everything was designed around the wallpaper, which I am head over heels for. I love how it has this whimsical safari feel and is not too childish. As we finished hanging it, my mom joked about how she would color it in one day. Luckily, Parker loves it too! She lays in her crib and coos at her animal friends on the wall, which melts my heart! My husband and I were at the beach one weekend when we found the walrus head and I had to have it for her room. I’ve always been a big fan of gold and the tusks were so charming. When we got home, I was sad to find that it just got lost in the wallpaper, so it went on another wall. I searched everywhere for something to make the room feel complete. A couple of weeks before she was born, I found the heart print in a local shop It was all that I hoped our daughter would be: bright and bold and able to light up a room! The sheets from IvieBaby gave the room a feminine touch and brought the chair together with everything else. I loved the florals and the contrast of the natural wood with the blues. Her room has become, by far, my favorite room in our house. One day, she will make it her own by coloring it all in!

From the Photographer… This nursery was as much of a dream to photograph as this beautiful family was! Their home is as inviting and beautiful as their nursery, and their simple, modern design fits their lifestyle perfectly! I genuinely enjoy getting to hear how my clients selected pieces for their nursery and put everything together. While I would have never been able to dream up a nursery space as beautiful as this, Chea did a fabulous job keeping the space practical while getting to create a space their little girl can grow into and capturing them in this space was a joy!

Photography: Emily Gerald Photography | Art: Heart Print | Chair: Little Castle | Crib: Oeuf- Sparrow | Crib Sheets: Floral | Dresser: Oeuf- Sparrow | End Table: West Elm | Lamp: Ikea | Rug: Pottery Barn | Wallpaper: Anthropologie

How a Crimson Berry Palette Made This Wedding Pop!

Consider this wedding a case study in the use of bold colors. Crimson berry and dusty blue, to be specific. They paired perfectly with lush greenery for a whimsical, garden look thanks to the thoughtful design work of Without Wax, Katy with Ashley Bosnick capturing beautifully behind the lens. Endless eye candy awaits this way in the gallery!


Bridget + Matthew’s gorgeous Austin wedding was a magical evening full of the perfect mix of outdoorsy elements and touches of warmth + romance. The overall color palette consisted of dusty blues, crimson and whites to keep the overall feel timeless, yet romantic.

Without Wax, Katy incorporated stunning florals throughout the day to accentuate the overall look and feel including an over-flowingly romantic floral arch, whimsical organic bouquets and a custom wood focal piece adorned with floral and candles at the reception.

The reception space also included suspended greenery from the ceiling to help bring the outdoors inside and to soften the space. Bridget + Matthew incorporated special touches to their wedding to make it their own, including catering by an Austin local hot spot, Peached Tortilla and danced the night away with their closest family and friends.

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Photography: Ashley Bosnick Photography | Coordination: Kelly Jones Events | Cake: Lauren Weber | Catering: The Peached Tortilla | Hair + Makeup: Erica Gray | DJ: Complete Weddings + Events | Venue: The Union On Eighth | Venue: The Union On Eighth | Bride's Dress: BHLDN | Brides Hair Piece: BHLDN | Floral + Design: Without Wax Katy

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A Real Bride Who Pulled off the Grecian Goddess Look

As a yoga instructor and boho-chic style lover, this bride knew exactly the look she was going for – Grecian goddess. From her flowing dress to the gladiator sandals to the gold headpieces that tied it all together, she looked every bit the part. Watch the entire day come to life through the lens of Alexandra Meseke, with even more waiting right here.

From the Bride… I envisioned an ethereal and whimsical wedding. Very boho chic. I am a yoga instructor and Paul is very laid back, and we wanted our wedding day to portray how we are.

Our color palette was earthy tones with hints of champagne and gold. I wanted the flowers to be a big moment as the venue was in the country. I knew beautiful wildflowers would pull it all together and I just loved out greenery runner across our sweetheart table. Also, all the bridesmaids had gold olive leaf bands in their hair.

We made bridesmaid and groomsmen pallets to showcase each member of the wedding party with a picture of them and a story to go with it. We also spray painted branches gold and hung crystal around them for extra decor. I also had a small swan pinned to the back of my dress that was my grandmothers. It was nice to use that as my something old and keep her by my side.

My gown was a Shareen Bridal gown. As soon as I tried it on and looked in the mirror I knew it was the one. I started crying and told everyone in the room, “This is the dress. I can picture myself walking to Paul in this dress.” Once I had the dress, I knew I wanted gladiator sandals to go for the full Grecian goddess look, with a gold headpiece and wavy curls. 

Our piece of advice for future brides is to savor the moments on your wedding day. Take a second to step back and let it all sink in. It’ll be over in a flash.

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Photography: Alexandra Meseke Photography | Floral Design: Homestead Wildflowers | Wedding Dress: Shareen Bridal | Bride's Shoes: Lulu's | Reception Catering: Colby's Catering | Makeup: Claire Kenna | Hair : La Vie Salon Spa Wellness | DJ: Shaun Lewis | Groom's Attire: Banana Republic | Venue: Jerris Wadsworth Wedding Barn | Bridesmaid's Accessories : Kate Spade

4 Steps to a Perfect Mother’s Day Soiree

Mother’s Day is one of our favorite days of the year, so celebrating it in style? Sooo important. Because, really, there’s no better way to let all of the mamas in your life know just how much you care than with a party especially for them. So today we’re teaming up with The Registry at Bloomingdale’s (and their gorgeous lineup of Villeroy & Boch products) for your guide to the perfect Mother’s Day soiree, aka, crafting the ultimate brunch or get-together. See four steps to a beautiful party below.

PICK THE PERFECT SETTING

It’s a fact: You can’t have a Mother’s Day celebration without a room full of beautiful blooms. So when choosing the perfect locale to host your fabulous brunch, moving the party outside is always an amazing idea. Think fresh cut grass, twinkle lights and garden roses as far as the eye can see. Don’t have the space or weather for an outdoor soiree? No worries. You can move the celebration inside with fresh cut florals from your local market and pretty much anything Villeroy & Boch makes. Their designs bring the garden party wherever you go, you guys. So amazing.

Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography 1. L’Objet Perlee White Short Vase 2. Kikkerland Silver Spiral String Lights 3. Sky Portia Floral Felt Decorative Pillow 4. Villeroy & Boch Retro Clear Three Arms Candleabra 5. Villeroy & Boch Anmut 3-Tiered Server

WOW WITH YOUR TABLESCAPE

I mentioned that Mother’s Day pretty much requires beautiful blooms, right? Good. Because when it comes to adding a room full or pretty florals, you can sooo achieve the aesthetic you’re looking for with Villeroy & Boch’s beautiful dinnerware and place settings. Think sweet floral patterns, vibrant hues and romantic designs that will bring that Jane Austen-esque look to any party. In other words? Adding Villeroy & Boch to your registry at Bloomingdale’s is a decision you’ll be seriously happy you made. On Mother’s Day… and every other day.

Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography 1. kate spade new york Percival Place Votive Holder 2. Liberty Flowers Fabric Napkins 3. Villeroy & Boch Artesano Dinner Plate 4. Villeroy & Boch La Classica Gold 5-Piece Place Setting 5. Villeroy & Boch Octavie Goblet

SERVE UP THE YUMMY TREATS

Let’s be honest. One of the best parts of any party is always the food, so skimping out on yummy treats for Mother’s Day is most definitely NOT an option. We suggest baking up some bite-sized goodies, like tea sandwiches and scones, or going all out with a sit-down brunch (mmm… omelets) for a menu that will leave all of your mommy friends talking. Bonus points for using Villeroy & Boch’s serveware, because it’s just so darn stunning.

Photography: KT Merry Photography 1. Wedgewood “Cuckoo” Tea Story 2-Tier Cake Stand 2. Villeroy & Boch New Wave Demitasse Spoons 3. Villeroy & Boch Anmut Platinum Bread & Butter Plate

DON’T FORGET THE TEA

Call me old fashioned (or just plain romantic), but no brunch at my house ends without tea. It’s such a sweet + calming way to wrap up the proceedings… and it’s even sweeter when you can serve up that tasty beverage in gorgeous teapots + cups from Villeroy & Boch. Think breathtaking designs that are almost too pretty to use. (I said almost.) It’s sending your guests off in style with full tummies and happy hearts. We are so on board.

Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography 1. Villeroy & Boch Anmut Flowers Teacup 2. Villeroy & Boch Artesano Teapot with Strainer 3. Domenico Vacca by Prouna Alligator White Sugar Bowl & Creamer Set 4. Villeroy & Boch New Wave Caffe Demi Espresso Spoon

Ready to host the Mother’s Day celebration of the century for you AND the ones you love? Visit The Registry at Bloomingdale’s to check out all of their amazing Villeroy & Boch products, plus their never-ending lineup of must-haves that you’ll most definitely need for any party on your agenda. And don’t forget to ask about all of their fabulous perks + benefits, like a 10% Off Completion Offer, discounts on jewelry + attire, a Thank You Manager, a Registry Checklist and their mobile Big Brown App. Happy Mother’s Day, loves.

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42 Inspiring Quotes About Moms That Will Give You All the Feels

Full disclosure: I’m not a mother (nor am I anywhere near ready to become one), but I can still appreciate how special moms are. And so could the authors of these 42 statements. From funny to heartwarming, these sweet quotes sum up just how much we love our moms, which is why we may or may not use one or two in our Mother’s Day cards this year!

“Motherhood: All love begins and ends there.” — Robert Browning

“Sometimes the strength of motherhood is greater than natural laws.” — Barbara Kingsolver

“I don’t know about changing my perspective, because motherhood is such a glorious blessing and I am very thankful for that. It’s such a beautiful experience. I so strongly recommend it. It’s bliss, love and fulfillment of another level.” — Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

“Motherhood has a very humanizing effect. Everything gets reduced to essentials.” — Meryl Streep

“Motherhood is the most challenging as well as the utmost satisfying vocation in this world.” — Nita Ambani

“Pregnancy and motherhood are the most beautiful and significantly life-altering events that I have ever experienced.” — Elisabeth Hasselbeck

“To describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power. Or the climbing, falling colors of a rainbow.” — Maya Angelou

“Being a mom has made me so tired. And so happy.” — Tina Fey

“Having kids—the responsibility of rearing good, kind, ethical, responsible human beings—is the biggest job anyone can embark on.” — Maria Shriver

“I believe the choice to become a mother is the choice to become one of the greatest spiritual teachers there is.” — Oprah

“There’s no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one.” — Jill Churchill

“[Motherhood] is still the biggest gamble in the world. It is the glorious life force. It’s huge and scary — it’s an act of infinite optimism.” — Gilda Radner

“Whatever else is unsure in this stinking dunghill of a world, a mother’s love is not.” — James Joyce

“Sometimes when you pick up your child you can feel the map of your own bones beneath your hands, or smell the scent of your skin in the nape of his neck. This is the most extraordinary thing about motherhood – finding a piece of yourself separate and apart that all the same you could not live without.” — Jodi Picoult, Perfect Match

“The natural state of motherhood is unselfishness. When you become a mother, you are no longer the center of the universe. You relinquish that position to your children.”  — Jessica Lange

“Time does not really exist for mothers, with regard to their children. It does not matter greatly how old the child is — in the blink of an eye, a mother can see the child again as they were when they were born, when they learned how to walk, as they were at any age — any time, even when the child is fully grown or a parent themselves.”  — Diana Gabaldon

“Mothers and their children are in a category all their own. There’s no bond so strong in the entire world. No love so instantaneous and forgiving.” — Gail Tsukiyama

“One of the most exciting things about being pregnant is that I just am accepting the complete unknown; it’s a complete mystery and miracle.” — Natalie Portman

“[Motherhood is] a choice you make every day, to put someone else’s happiness and well-being ahead of your own, to teach the hard lessons, to do the right thing even when you’re not sure what the right thing is… and to forgive yourself, over and over again, for doing everything wrong.” — Donna Ball

“To give life to another being, what a gift! When he finally was placed into my arms, I looked into his precious eyes and felt an overwhelming, unconditional love… I never felt so complete and empowered in my life.” — Gisele Bündchen

“[Motherhood] sort of puts things into perspective, and it’s about real life, and life is about people, what we give, what we take, what we share.” — Halle Berry

“I realized when you look at your mother, you are looking at the purest love you will ever know.” — Mitch Albom

“Your empathy for other mothers is such a natural instinct and it’s such a beautiful thing that we all connect, and we should all help each other. We should all help each other.” — Salma Hayek

“You have to put on your own oxygen mask before you put on others… It’s a good metaphor for parenting.” — Amanda Peet

“More than in any other human relationship, overwhelmingly more, motherhood means being instantly interruptible, responsive and responsible.” — Tillie Olsen

“The most precious jewels you’ll ever have around your neck are the arms of your children.” — Unknown

“The phrase ‘working mother’ is redundant.” — Jane Sellman

“Biology is the least of what makes someone a mother.” — Oprah Winfrey

“Being a mother is not about what you gave up to have a child, but what you’ve gained from having one.” — Unknown

“All that I am or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.” — Abraham Lincoln

“A mother is not a person to lean on, but a person to make leaning unnecessary.” — Dorothy Canfield Fisher

“Mother’s love is bliss, is peace, it need not be acquired, it need not be deserved. If it is there, it is like a blessing; if it is not there it is as if all the beauty had gone out of life.” — Erich Fromm

“When you are a mother, you are never really alone in your thoughts. A mother always has to think twice, once for herself and once for her child.” — Sophia Loren

“Because I feel that, in the Heavens above / The angels, whispering to one another, / Can find, among their burning terms of love / None so devotional as that of ‘Mother’” — Edgar Allen Poe

“A mother’s arms are more comforting than anyone else’s.” — Princess Diana

“[Motherhood is] ‘heart-exploding, blissful hysteria.’” — Olivia Wilde

“Motherhood is a choice you make everyday, to put someone else’s happiness and well-being ahead of your own, to teach the hard lessons, to do the right thing even when you’re not sure what the right thing is…and to forgive yourself, over and over again, for doing everything wrong.” — Donna Ball, At Home on Ladybug Farm

“A mother’s love for her child is like nothing else in the world. It knows no law, no pity, it dates all things and crushes down remorselessly all that stands in its path.” — Agatha Christie, “The Last Séance”

“I will look after you and I will look after anybody you say needs to be looked after, any way you say. I am here. I brought my whole self to you. I am your mother.” — Maya Angelou, Mom & Me & Mom

“You can never tell them [I love you] too many times, let them roll their eyes… Life can sometimes be, for all of us, a bully and you need to have money in the bank… Every time you say ‘I love you,’ you’re putting money in the bank. You’re not always going to be there to put money in the bank, so I say you got to stock up so it will last a long time.” — Ann Curry

A Fresh, Clean & Classic Wedding Set in Northern California

If classic design moments speak to your soul, prepare to fall hard for this wedding photographed by Sylvie Gil. The pros at Florabella Studios took the bride’s vision of “Northern California chic” and translated that to a palette of soft neutrals paired with lush florals for a celebration that’s guaranteed to stand the test of time.

Katie and Tucker met in college at Washington & Lee and dated through the years before getting engaged in 2014 at the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay. Tucker orchestrated a luxurious spa day before he popped the question and then surprised Katie by inviting their families to celebrate at the hotel’s restaurant overlooking the ocean. The bride grew up in the Bay Area and dreamed of a wedding that embodied that “Northern California chic.”

After a heartfelt ceremony at the Church of the Nativity, they hosted an elegant reception at the Menlo Country Club, with views of the redwood-enclosed golf course beyond. Katie opted for a neutral palette of grays and whites, reflected in the simple linen and lush floral arrangements seen throughout the day. In the evening, Ground Control lit up the dance floor with a lively set until the bride and groom drove off in a vintage convertible to begin their next chapter as husband and wife.

It was a wonderful celebration that perfectly encapsulated Katie’s hometown in all its beauty.

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Photography: Sylvie Gil Photography | Cinematography: Patrick Ang | Wedding Planning: Florabella | Floral Design: Florabella | Cake: Studio Cake | Ceremony Venue: Nativity Church Menlo Park, Ca | Reception Venue: Menlo Country Club | Catering: Menlo Country Club | Makeup: Christina Aguayo | Lighting: Love in the Mix | Transportation: Corinthian Transportation | Band + Cocktail Music: Elan Artists | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Linens: Table Wraps | Paper Goods: Florabella | Rentals: Blueprint Studios | Rentals: Standard Party Rentals | Rentals: Hensley Event Resources

A Chance Meeting in Hawaii Led to a Romance…20 Years Later!

Twenty years after a serendipitous meeting in Hawaii, these two reconnected and fell in love, so this wedding planned by Shauna Timmons of Alegria by Design was clearly going to be something special. From reading the groom’s letter, written to himself after the pair’s first date to the symbolic way they honored the bride’s three daughters, this heartwarming ceremony paid homage to the couple’s love and their new family. Read their touching story in the Bride’s own words below, then catch every tear-invoking moment in the gallery by Anna J Photography.

Colors
Settings
Vineyard
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Rustic

From the Bride… James and I met by chance on Waikiki Beach in 1992. We were both there on vacation with friends. One of his friends approached my friend and me, inviting us to hang out with them. Because we were from nearby towns back home, we accepted the offer and spent a few memorable days in Honolulu together as a group. Although James and I were not romantically involved with one another, there was certainly an attraction. Little did we know at the time, the attraction we shared was ultimately fate in disguise.

After Hawaii, we all went our separate ways. James continued his career as a successful real estate entrepreneur and traveled the world while I went off to college, started my career in PR, got married, and had three children. In 1999, my now ex-husband and I bought our first home about 15 miles north of where we lived. I didn’t know at the time, but I ended up moving within a few miles from James. As fate would have it, we randomly ran into each other at the local coffee shop about every five years. It seemed like it was just enough time to not forget one another, and we would always reminisce of our memorable Hawaii trip. Fast forward to February 12, 2012. We ran into each other again at a local sporting goods store. James had never been married and at this time, I had been divorced for approximately one year. He asked me out for coffee, and we have been together ever since.

The rolling hills of Santa Ynez Valley established our backdrop for our June 2016 wedding. We started our day at Hotel Corque with a beautiful brunch and champagne toast. At promptly 5 o’clock, the Santa Ynez Trolley picked up our small group of guests, and we headed out to Firestone Vineyards to tie the knot. Our wedding was unique because it was so small and intimate. It allowed us to be ourselves and to share our love for each other without any second-guessing.

I envisioned an intimate wedding with a long, family-style table where I could see all my loved ones’ faces. I wanted our wedding to be a special day not only for us, but also a day full of unexpected surprises for our guests. We both had surprises that stunned everyone – including each other! During the ceremony, while James read me his vows he pulled out a sealed envelope with a note from his coat pocket. He had written this letter to himself after we went out on our first date in 2012. He asked me to read it out loud to remind him what it was he wrote to himself. With tears in my eyes and all choked up, I read that he knew why he waited to get married – he had been waiting for me! There was not a dry eye during our beautiful ceremony.

I married James as a single mother to three lovely daughters. On our wedding day, we wanted to make sure we incorporated the girls. The butterfly is a special symbol between my daughters and me. My youngest drew me a butterfly (as she normally does) that inspired us to have butterfly necklaces that incorporated their birthstones made for each one of the girls. The necklaces signified beauty, change, and new possibilities for themselves as individuals and for us together as a family. While we put their necklaces on, James personally addressed each one of my daughters with the sweetest, most thoughtful words. I think my favorite part was when he said to the three of them, “I don’t just step-love you – I love you.”

The next surprise was during our cocktail hour. After James and I took our photos as a couple, we joined the rest of the party in the swanky, candle-lit wine barrel room. I serenaded James with “I Choose You” by Sara Bareilles. I was too nervous to recall how I sounded, but apparently I shocked our best friends who had no idea that I used to sing in ensemble up until I was in high school.

My favorite moment was sitting at the dinner table and looking at everyone’s face. My vision was being realized. Every person at that table meant so much to us. They were enjoying the day. There wasn’t a thing out of place. It was perfect.

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Photography: Anna Jockisch Of Anna J Photography | Event Planner: Alegria by Design | Floral Design: Anna Le Pley Taylor | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Catering: The Lucky Hen Larder | Makeup: Tomiko Taft | Hair: Christina Zeolla | Officiant: Todd Goldman | Transportation: Solvang Trolley | Venue: Firestone Winery | Dessert: Enjoy Cupcakes | Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Musician and DJ: Matthew Commerce | Rentals: Classic Party Rentals | Vintage Rentals: Otis + Pearl Partywares

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Spectacular Bridal Inspiration in Glacier National Park

There’s something so breathtaking about being surrounded by mountains. Combine that with a picturesque lake, and the result is truly spectacular! Between the vibrant bouquet (that Darci of Greenwood Events created from flowers she grew herself!) and the photography perfection of Shannon Von Eschen, each and every image of this bridal inspiration shoot at Glacier National Park is unforgettable. See them all right here.

From Shannon Von Eschen PhotographyThis is a shoot that Darci with Greenwood Events and I did while I was out at Lake McDonald shooting a wedding. Darci grew ALL the flowers for the bouquet herself. She’s the most amazing designer/stylist/florist ever – so talented! The “model” is actually Jessica of Jessica Lee Calligraphy – the calligrapher for the wedding we were all working on together.

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Photography: Shannon Von Eschen | Floral Design: Greenwood Events | Wedding Dress: Alexandra Grecco | Bridal Boutique: Bash Bozeman | Model: Jessica Lee Calligraphy

Timeless NYC Ballroom Wedding

As one of the pros behind Intrigue Design and Decor, you better believe this bride was prepared for just about anything on her wedding day. Including a complete dress malfunction that required an emergency trip to the Garment District only minutes before the ceremony. Luckily, the rest of the day unfolded just as she’d envisioned thanks to the incredible Claire Duran working behind the scenes, and we’ve got every photo from Kenzie Victory waiting right here.

From the Bride… As the leader of the business side of Intrigue Design and Decor, I have been spoiled by witnessing countless weddings with decadent flowers and romantic decor. When it came time to plan my own wedding, I felt paralyzed. How would I compete with all of the breathtaking weddings that I have seen brought to life over the years?

After weeks of touring venues in my hometown of Washington, DC, I received crushing news. The temple that I had dreamt of getting married in since the time I was a little girl was preparing for renovations and would be closed the entire month of my wedding. Being sealed in the temple on my wedding day was vital, which meant I needed to find a new venue near the closest temple to us, bringing us to Manhattan. Finding just the right venue in New York City seemed like a daunting task; however, it ended up being easier than I could have ever hoped.

I drove to the city accompanied by my mom and best friend with a 2-day schedule packed with tours and meetings. First on our list was the J.W. Marriott Essex House. Upon arrival, we immediately felt welcomed as the doorman opened our car door and signaled his hand towards the entrance. We stepped through revolving doors and into a well-appointed lobby, complete with the most beautiful floral displays. Beyond the florals stood a tall, smiling gentleman that seemed all too familiar.He walked towards us, shook my hand and introduced himself as “Jason.” The next hour felt like a dream as Jason walked us through the Petite Salon, the Grande Ballroom and up elevators adorned with the most beautiful metal work. It was everything I had been looking for and Jason’s helpful demeanor and expertise was just what I needed to successfully pull off a destination wedding in this massive city.

The dress was the easy part. I called my friend and designer Sohil, creator of Enaura Gowns, and he crafted a custom dress with impeccable detail for me on my wedding day. The entire bodice was adorned with hand beading that traveled down the tulle skirt and across the sheer sleeves with a series of fluttering fabric flowers. The cathedral veil, equally as grand, emulated the detail of the gown with a series florets and subtle sparkle.

With so much experience in the wedding industry, you would imagine that finding a photographer should be a no brainer. However, the last thing I wanted to do was ask one of my photographer friends to work my wedding rather than be a guest. So, I began doing what most millennial brides tend to do and scoured Instagram, eventually falling for the feed of @KenzieVictory. Her images were soft and natural and instantly appealing. With this crucial piece in place, the wedding planning was almost complete.

Of course, every great wedding needs a great planner/stylist. So, we brought Claire Duran Events up to make sure all the details were in place, that the images were styled and that each of the day’s details unfolded precisely according to plan.

The Wedding Day

When the big day arrived, I felt giddy with excitement. After so much planning and coordination, all that was left to do was enjoy the day. I remember waking up feeling full of anticipation. Dressed in a silk robe, I gathered with my bridesmaids and the pampering ensued. It was a splendid morning with freshly squeezed orange juice, New York bagels and delicious fruit. Then the moment came to get dressed and meet my groom for our “first look.”

I stepped away feeling excited. Today was the day. Today I was marrying the love of my life. When I went to unveil my dress, I immediately knew something was wrong.

It was at that moment that the advice my sister-in-law gave me kicked into place. Two weeks prior to the wedding, Melanie quietly sat me down and counseled, “Ten things will go wrong on your wedding day. If you prepare for that, you won’t be anxious. When the first thing happens, start counting.”

The room froze. Everyone looked at me in disbelief. My custom Enaura Bridal gown went from being a dream come true to completely unusable. The zipper had become unhinged to the dress, creating a massive hole in the back. Panic filled the room, yet I remained calm. I counted one.

It felt like a scene from a hospital, people were on the phone, running around and panicking trying to figure out the next move. Amidst all the commotion, I remained calm and steady. My family and friends looked at me in utter disbelief. Meeting my soon-to-be husband in time for our “first look” was out of the question, and with my temple sealing quickly approaching I had to think fast.

Having a wedding in New York City has its advantages. After a few phone calls, I was able to reach my friend Sohil, the designer/owner of Enaura Bridal. I explained to him my situation and he immediately told me to meet him at his studio in the garment district. Along with both my photographer and videographer, we hopped into a cab and made our way towards the studio. Upon arrival, Sohil worked tirelessly to have my dress completed in time. With no time to waste, I headed back to the Essex house just in time to respond to a very confused groom. While I had been dealing with the dress, he had been patiently waiting in Central Park for my arrival. After some much-needed explaining, we took a moment to laugh and express how much we loved each other.

The time is now 12:00. With our temple sealing at 1pm, I had to quickly make my way to the Manhattan, New York Latter-Day Saint Temple. Together with our families and in one of the holiest places on earth, we were married for time and all eternity. We promised to always stand by each others sides in what was one of the most beautiful ceremonies imaginable. After the ceremony ended, my gown was waiting for me in the bridal suite. It was then that I was able to share a beautiful, uninterrupted moment with my mother as I finally put on my wedding gown.

As the day unfolded, each detail flowed beautifully into the next with surprises at every corner. While taking our formal pictures at Bethesda Terrace in Central Park, my groom surprised me with a small group of local NYC talent performing the most beautiful rendition of John Legend’s All of Me My heart was overwhelmed by his thoughtfulness and kindness.

As we made our way to the ballroom, my heart was racing. I couldn’t wait to view the masterpiece that Intrigue Design and Decor had designed. As I walked in, I was speechless. Blooms adorned every table and place setting. Lush, grand centerpieces welcomed me as I glided through the ballroom. It was a room meant for a princess. The doors were then opened to the ceremony space were I was greeted with the most stunning flower wall. Roses and moss spiraled into the most whimsical design you could possibly imagine.

What a day to remember, family and friends traveled from near and far to celebrate our love and marriage. The night, thanks to Jason, went without a hitch. From the dancing to the toasts, every moment was perfect. Entertainment by On The Move was spectacular. We couldn’t have asked for a better fusion between DJ and band. Together with On The Move, my two brothers and father sang our first song. It was a moment I’ll never forget. To be dancing with my groom, while the other three most important men in my life sang to us, was enough to bring me to tears.

As the night drew to a close, the master of ceremonies announced that there was one surprise left. I was completely shocked as I looked towards my groom, just standing there with a grin. As I was lead out the ballroom with my family following close behind, we made our way to the entrance of the hotel. Waiting out front was a vintage yellow cab for Morgan and I. I could barely contain my excitement. After so many surprises all day long, he seemed somehow to top it all off with the greatest of them all. The people cheered, our families may have cried, but as we drove away into a new chapter in our lives, I knew one thing – September 6, 2016, was the best day of my life.

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Photography: Kenzie Victory | Wedding Dress: Enaura Bridal | Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Azazie | Hair + Makeup: Updos For I Dos | Calligraphy: Corbett Frazier | Band: On The Move Entertainment | Groomsmen's Attire: The Black Tux | Venue: JW Marriott Essex House | Catering + Cake: JW Marriott Essex House | Florals + Design: Intrigue Designs | Getaway Car: The Checker Cab | Groom's Tux: Your Suit Guy | Invitation: Fossil Letterpress | Veil: Blossom Veils | Wedding Rings: Forge Jewelry Works | Wedding Styling: Claire Duran Weddings And Events

Organic, Luxe Wedding Inspiration Set in Greece

My husband and I recently decided our next big trip will be to Greece, and this inspiration shoot designed in the hands of Think Happy Events encompasses all the reasons why. Think stunning landscapes, fresh and decadent foods, plus photography by Les Anagnou that will completely blow you away. Join me in the gallery and get lost in all the pretty for yourself.

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This most romantic and artistic styled shoot took place in the historical old mansion of the Kinsterna Hotel. This amazing old structure, built during the 17th century close to the picturesque Castle of Monemvasia and renovated completely with respect to its architectural history, is the inspiration point for this beautiful result. Every detail was well cared for, with natural textures, traditional patterns, and Greek elements.

Based on Greek products and the Greek word of hospitality “filoxenia”, we created a welcome gift for the guests with extra virgin olive oil, traditional drink tsipouro, organic honey and a bergamot scented candle. The scenery of the olive groves combined with our almond blossom arch, gave a magical touch to the ceremony, while sun rays passed through the branches and created an exquisite atmosphere. The couple walked through the wine yards and the citrus groves, along with their white horses and had the chance to feel the peace of Mother Nature.

White hyacinths, pink almond blossoms, deep green olive branches & eucalyptus were the starting point for our wedding color palette. At the ancient cistern with the goldfish and the lilies, a luxurious dinner table with unique flatware and lace plates, decorated with lots of flowers and vintage gold candleholders has been set up for the guests. Clear glass boxes with gold details, again olive branches and traditional Greek wedding sweets “koufeta” were the wedding gifts.

The old Venetian wall of the central building of the hotel was the perfect backdrop for the dessert table and the blush pink tulle running all over the vintage furniture created an artistic effect. All the desserts were designed on the concept with organic nuts and fresh berries, under favorite Greek flavors. A dream wedding, in a dream place, with a dream team!


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Photography: Les Anagnou photographers | Cinematography: WedColors | Floral Design: Studio 7 | Wedding Dress: Katia Delatola | Hair + Makeup: Frantzeska Koukoula | Hotel: Kinsterna Hotel & Spa | Venue: Kinsterna Hotel & Spa | Bridal Shoes: Femme Fanatique | Desserts: Pavlov's Lab | Event Concept, Styling and Design : Think Happy Events | Furniture: Zazoo | Groom Attire: Christakis | Invitations + Printables: Atelier Invitations | Jewel: Maria Patsia | Model: Stefania Novikova | Model: Panagiotis Mitsakos | Rentals: White Lilac

5 Easy Tips to Perfecting The Neighborhood Date Night

Whether you’ve been dating for a year or married for 15, cashing in on regular date nights is oh so important. It fuels that bond and gives you that together time that everyone needs. And if it is super easy and budget-friendly? Well that’s even better. Ashley Brooke is sharing 5 simple tips for crafting your own neighborhood date night with the one you love. And champagne is most certainly on the menu. See even more captured by Amalie Orrange right here!

From Ashley Brooke Designs… Ever since my husband and I started dating, we’ve been doing neighborhood date nights. It’s a little tradition of ours that has stuck. We love going on them, and we love how easy it is to make them happen! Honestly, it’s so simple to throw a few things together in a picnic basket and head out for a sunset bike ride after a long day of work. Not only does it get us outside, but we also get the chance to actually enjoy our neighborhood. These dates are budget friendly, but they feel extra special! If you haven’t tried a neighborhood date night, follow my tips below. I pinky promise this is about to be your new favorite date night tradition.

1. Dress It Up

Even though you’ll just be biking around town, it’s fun to feel just a little fancy! Put on a pretty easy-to-wear sundress and a pair of flats (something you can easily pedal in!). You don’t want to wear anything over the top, but you, of course, want to wear something that makes you feel like it’s date night.

2. Pack a Picnic

Whether you pack a full dinner or snacks, pick up a little something that will make the night extra fun. I always bring a bottle of champagne or wine because either makes the night feel really special. I also love having trail mix and strawberries on hand. Just like your outfit, keep things simple!

3. Time It Right

It’s really easy to miss the sunset, so make sure you check the sunset time on your phone before you head out on your adventure or you’ll be biking in the dark. This has happened to us more than once!

4. Find a Spot

On your drive home from work, take an extra loop around your neighborhood. Are there any parks, benches, or pretty stoops that you could use for your picnic? If so, make a note! It’s always good to have a plan and to know where your bike or stroll is about to take you.

5. Snap a Polaroid

Some of my favorite photos of my husband and I are taken with my Instax camera at our sunset picnics. I keep them on our refrigerator to remind me to plan more neighborhood date nights like this.

Sources

Dress: Anthropologie | Shoes: Anthropologie | Earrings: Anthropologie | Bikes: Pure Cycle | Bike Basket: Nantucket Bike Basket | Picnic Basket: Amazon

Photography: Amalie Orrange Photography | Design and Styling: Ashley Brooke Designs

A Fresh, Modern Twist on a Classic Garden Affair

We love a good, fresh twist on classics and this garden inspired affair crafted and photographed by Natalie Bray Studios, is just that. Set in a bright white industrial loft, it pairs traditional details like a gorgeous lace dress by Christos and organic, lush florals by Best Day Ever with a more modern backdrop. And it’s all together stunning. Pore through all the pretty images right here.

Femininity and romance were at the heart of the inspiration behind this bridal session. In a modern DTLA loft I set out to create a new twist on classic elements. The color pallette of white, grey, black, and gold were accented beautifully by the soft feminine florals from Best Day Ever Floral Design. Lace can be the epitome of feminine attire and these Christos gowns with deep V and subtle details worked perfectly to accentuate the brides natural beauty. I adored her freckles and really wanted her natural beauty to shine. Chiali Meng Artistry took this concept to an elegantly-chic level.

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Photography : Natalie Bray Studios | Styling: Natalie Bray Studios | Florals : Best Day Ever Floral Design | Wedding Dress: Christos | Cake: Azucar | Ring: L Priori Jewelry | Calligraphy and Paper design: Shasta Bell Calligraphy | Candles: Creative Candles | Dress Boutique: The Dress Theory | Hair and Make-up : Chiali Meng | Rentals : Taylor Creative Inc. | Ring Box: The Mrs Box | Table Top Rentals: Hostess Haven

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Classic, Southern Hospitality at This Wedding

This Charleston wedding is overflowing with a whole lot of classic, Southern hospitality, and Virgil Bunao Photography captured it all! The bride and groom made their guests’ comfort their priority, adding in thoughtful touches throughout the weekend. My favorite – as friends and family entered the tent containing the dance floor, they were greeted with chaise lounge chairs and a shoe valet for ladies to trade their heels for comfortable dancing shoes. Scroll on to see all the sweet details.

From A Charleston Bride… I knew Liz and I would hit it off from the very start because of how detail oriented she was! It was very important to the bride and groom that their guests be comfortable and taken care of the entire weekend. Their intimate ceremony was underneath oak trees at Lowndes Grove with streaming orchids hanging in the trees. Guests enjoyed cocktail hour with passed champagne and hors d’oeuvres. Guests were welcomed into a fully, draped dinner tent with lush linens in different patterns – one a metallic gold and the other a blush floral. The tables were set with gold flatware and vintage gold and blush glassware. The floral on the tables were hydrangeas, ranunculus, peonies, garden roses, and sweet peas. Liz and Steve danced their first dance under the open air, and it looked as if they were dancing on water! After dinner, guests entered the lounge tent complete with a dance floor and even a shoe valet for ladies to drop their heels and put on dancing shoes. The guys weren’t fully left out – they were able to enjoy a cigar and bourbon tasting bar. We ended the night with a sparkler departure!

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Photography: Virgil Bunao Photography | Event Planning: A Charleston Bride | Floral Design: A Charleston Bride | Catering: Patrick Properties Hospitality Group | Hair and Makeup: Paper Dolls | Lighting: Technical Event Company | Band: Charleston Groove Factory | Venue: Lowndes Grove Plantation | Getaway Car: Lowcountry Valet | Linen Rentals: Nuage Designs | Rentals: Ooh! EventHaus | Rentals: Event DRS | Rentals: EventWorks | Rentals: Snyder Event Rentals

The Most Romantic Pre-Wedding Ceremony We’ve Ever Seen

If you caught a glimpse of their sand dunes engagement session, you probably already have a soft spot in your heart for Nikisa and Eric. These high-school sweethearts planned a meaningful wedding day with the help of Joy Proctor, including cultural details to honor Nikisa’s Persian heritage. Beginning with an intimate, family-only ceremony, they exchanged vows in a circle of candlelight followed by a formal outdoor ceremony and reception, all beautifully photographed in the way only Jose Villa can. Dive right in for a wedding day experience you won’t soon forget.

From the wedding planner, Joy Proctor It was an incredible honor to help Nikisa & Eric plan their celebration of love. As editor of The Fullest Magazine, bride Nikisa was passionate about inviting her guests to experience wellness and celebration through food and community at her wedding to high-school sweetheart, Eric. From the moment they began planning, Eric and Nikisa knew that food would be important to them and were passionate about every ingredient used in the dishes they served their guests.

Following the guidance of a mentor, Nikisa and Eric chose to exchange vows at 2:00 pm in front of their parents and siblings before holding a larger ceremony with all their guests at 5:00. Surrounded by a circle of candlelight, they stood under a chandelier dripping with strung hyacinth and exchanged vows. After a storm rolled in, the couple chose to keep their ceremony with guests outside and handed umbrellas out to guests upon arrival, welcoming the blessing from the skies.

To honor her beautiful Persian heritage, Mooncanyon created an organic, deconstructed sofreh for the ceremony. Spices, eggs, sugar and other meaningful items were placed amongst organic and wild greenery in a beautiful semicircle in which the ceremony for guests took place. As a nod to her grandfather, Nikisa chose a kumquat spritzer handed to guests upon arrival. Ring bearers carried meaningful crystals up the aisle in wooden dough bowls, placing the crystals in the sofreh to bless the space.

Escorted down the aisle by their dog Cessna, groom Eric wore a soft grey suit and natural leather shoes. Bride Nikisa entered the ceremony in a stunning custom Inbal Dror gown with her best friend – her Father Mohammad. As she carried a beautiful gathered bouquet of flowers, incense were burned, creating a beautiful and cleansed space for her arrival.

A beautiful wooden u-shaped structure draped in creme chiffon sat above guests dinner tables. Natural wood tables and chairs with linen runners sat under organic floral arrangements in wooden dough bowls. Collections of crystals and candles sat between floral arrangements. Chandeliers dripping with organic greenery hung above the guest tables. The color palette of creme, green and taupe was accented with gold and natural wood tones.

Lazaro Press created beautiful paper goods highlighting the couples love for organic papers and clean design. A custom monogram featuring four triangles inside a larger triangle with their initials graced the Save the Date, invites, menus, cocktail napkins and drink stirrers. Save the dates were printed in gold foil on octagonal creme paper. Invitations were sent in beautiful creme boxes with natural linen folios containing invites, info cards and RSVPS, all printed in gold foil on creme paper.

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Photography: Jose Villa Photography | Cinematography: Artisan Production | Wedding Coordination: Joy Proctor Design | Floral Design: Moon Canyon | Cake : Sweet Laurel Bakery | Catering: RoomForty | Hair & Makeup: The Halcyon Agency | DJ: THE FLASHDANCE | Officiant: Terces | Ceremony Music : Tom Solis | Transportation: Gold Coast Limos | Venue: Sunstone Winery & Villa | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Photo Booth: The Awesome Booth | Rentals: The Tent Merchant | Restrooms: CCI Industries | Security : D.A.D Protective Services | Stationery + Paper Goods: Lazaro Press & Design | Tabletop: The Ark Event Rentals

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Stunning gowns with built-in shapewear? Dreams really DO come true.

Walking down the aisle in a gown that is absolutely gorgeous and super flattering? That’s the dream. So when Maggie Sottero announced that their new Cordelia Collection features select styles with slenderizing shapewear + underlays, we were ecstatic. Think a lineup of ultra-feminine gowns that reduce the need to purchase expensive shapewear for the Big Day. Oh, and they also happen to be super pretty. We are sooo all about this, you guys.

Take that Maggie Sottero style we know and love and infuse it with lightweight, high-quality linings that smooth and complement and the results are absolute perfection… just what Maggie Sottero is so well-known for. From the classic silhouettes filled with artful details and modern elegance to the luxurious fabrics (hello, lace) to the fit that will make you so, so happy, this is a collection that simply screams beautiful bride. Not to mention that with built-in shapewear, you can say “goodbye” to all of those annoying shapewear purchases and “hello” to a gown that looks amazing on your shape… naturally. It’s basically a dream come true for every bride looking to WOW. And we can’t get enough.

From the lace appliqués + beaded belt of the Jaslynn to the lace on tulle fit and flare of the Aretha, head to Maggie Sottero today to check out every pretty inch of the Cordelia Collection. Because if you’re looking for a subtly smooth shape that is comfortable and flattering, you found it. Trust us, loves. You are going to LOVE this collection.