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.

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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.

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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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.

Anna Delores Photography knows how to capture an intimate wedding, so she was the perfect choice for this bride and groom who said “I do” in front of just twelve of their nearest and dearest on a private estate in Ojai. The bride looked at home in her So Cal surroundings, wearing a vintage inspired gown covered in intricate scalloped lace by Stone Cold Fox. In true Ojai fashion, the completely vegan menu was served on an organic, earthy tablescape with perfectly mismatched candlesticks and lush greens serving as a table runner. This is one you don’t want to miss – see it all in the Vault.

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From Anna Delores Photography… Jared and Caitlin selected a private estate in Ojai for their big day. They invited only their closest family members, limiting the guest list to just 12 people. The intimacy of the day elevated the meaningful, emotional moments and left a truly profound impact on everyone present.

From the Bride… When my husband and I got engaged, we explored all of our options – big and small. After a lot of thought, we decided the only way to achieve a day that reflected who we are as a couple was to keep it small and intimate, limiting the guest list to our immediate family members. The result was more than I could have ever hoped for! Every person in attendance had a role in our union. It was so personal and emotional! It felt like our authentic day.

As far as location goes, my family is from Baltimore, my husband’s family is from Pittsburgh, and we live in North Carolina. There really was no “convenient” place to host our wedding, so we decided to think outside of the box and make a vacation out of it. California’s relaxed vibe, gorgeous landscape, and near-perfect weather made it an obvious choice, and we were so excited to share a place we love so much with our families (most of whom had never been). There’s something very romantic about fitting what you can into a suitcase, hopping on a plane, and flying across the country to get married!

Photography: Emily Loeppke Photography | Cinematography: Just Like Film | Floral Design: Bella Raines Garden Studio | Wedding Dress: Stone Cold Fox | Cake: Rainbow Bridge | Stationery: Elizabeth Porcher Jones | Catering: Ma Cuisine | Hair and Makeup: Cheek to Cheek Artistry | Groom's Attire: J.Crew | Venue: Private Estate | Film Processing: Richard Photo Lab | Rentals: Party Pleasers

Gray is my favorite color, and Italy is my most beloved destination, so I’m obviously in love with every. single. image. of this Tuscany wedding inspiration session, captured by Thecablookfotolab. Between the gorgeous, gray silk dress and the romantic stationery suite, gray just might become your next obsession, too. Get lost in the beauty of it all right here.

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From Ekaterina of OhMarriage… Tuscany has always been an inspirational destination, but when we saw pictures of the small hotel near Florence – Valdirose – we immediately realized that this was the place where we definitely needed to have our shoot! It’s so cozy, with lots of lovely details, textures, and shades. When we went there, we felt the special atmosphere of the place thanks to its owners, the wonderful Irene and Paolo Berni.

We organized the wedding dinner on the beautiful glass terrace of the house, inspired by textures and the simple interior of the space. We used shades of gray, ranging from light gray to almost black. We chose a dark turquoise hue for the accent color, which you’ll see in the textured plates. In general, we focused on textures – non-uniformly dyed candles, stone-looking vases, and ceramic plates, calligraphy on textured watercolor paper.

Our bride was dressed in a neat cotton sundress and then changed into a simple wedding dress in our color palette – the slip, a dark gray silk, and the top, a sheer weightless tulle. The look was complemented by an accentual crown in silver with stylized vine leaves. For the groom, we chose a classic look – a dark suit and light shirt in a simple design. This emphasized the groom’s style and the concept of the shoot.

The ceremony took place in the beautiful olive tree grove next to the house. We arranged the ceremony near the outdoor, stone stairs and decorated with several baskets of grape leaves, roses, and hanging bunches of green grapes. We used the same florals for the bride’s bouquet and the reception dinner, adding in lisianthuses, helleborus, and sweet peas. We ended the shoot in the Tuscan vineyards at sunset. What could be more romantic?

Photography: Thecablookfotolab | Event Planning and Design: Oh Marriage! | Floral Design: Marina Shentyapina | Wedding Dress: Bluebells Bridal Couture | Jewelry: Olga Delice | Hair and Makeup: Olga Golovko | Calligraphy: Dream Craft Love | Location: Valdirose Charming Rooms | Model: Giuseppe Stanziola | Model: Julia Liverinova

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Southern charm runs a plenty in this sweet Georgia engagement and to say it makes for a beautiful backdrop is a complete understatement. From the pink hued architecture of Savannah to the sweeping ocean views of Tybee Island, follow along as Amy Arrington captures the cutest of couples with a cameo by their fur baby too.

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From the couple… I’ve always envisioned a lush backdrop of live oak trees and sweeping Spanish moss framing the background of our engagement photos. Beyond that, having a special place that is near and dear to our hearts where we can enjoy the experience of taking these special photos that will adorn the walls of our home for years to come. Even before our engagement, we both secretly knew Savannah was the perfect location for our engagement session. Since we first started dating, we always enjoyed the weekend escape to Savannah and even today joke about the one day we will own our own little vacation getaway there. A town we love for its rich history, picturesque squares and anything goes atmosphere. For strolling the streets with our dog, Riley, and a cocktail in-hand to kayaking the intercoastal out to Little Tybee Island, Savannah is the getaway for adventurers and historians of all kinds. Our photos truly encompassed all that we know and love about Savannah. With the artistry and grace behind the camera of Amy Arrington Photography, our pictures ended up being absolute perfection.

Photography: Amy Arrington Photography

This right here, an engagement amongst the rolling dunes, is pure magic – magic at the hands of Jose Villa and the wilds of California. They’re a good match, those two, and the proof is in image after gorgeous light-filled image. See it all right here and stay tuned because the wedding celebration of this beautiful couple is coming up next!

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Photographer: Jose Villa Photography

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Mother’s Day is just around the corner, loves, and if you’re planning to celebrate all of those amazing mamas in your life (including you!), you need to read this first. Because today we’re counting down 10 seriously awesome registry items that need to be included in your party… whether you’re toasting your mom in a small get-together or hosting a more elaborate soiree. Don’t register without these must-haves… you’ll most definitely need them for years to come.

Mother's Day Registry Must-Haves

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Mother's Day Registry Must-Haves

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Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography

Kohl’s
Williams Sonoma
Bloomingdale’s

What’s dreamy, ethereal and romantic all over? Marchesa’s new Spring 2018 Couture and Notte collections. With ruffled bows, feathered flowers, 3D embroideries and exquisite laces, the Couture collection takes classic silhouettes to the next level with fresh updates like bell sleeves, statement capes and detachable overskirts. The gorgeousness continues into Marchesa Notte‘s collection where luxe fabrics meet dramatic finishes like 3D flower appliqués, crinkled chiffon and beaded fringe. See all the prettiness for yourself, thanks to these images from Love & Light Photographs below!

“Marchesa Bridal Spring 2018 collection is a promenade along the leafy hedge-lined pathways of Castle Howard, a prominent brick-walled garden in England. A paradise of intoxicating florals, the collection is rooted in the serene, yet vibrant beauty of the majestic garden.”

“Marchesa Notte Bridal Spring 2018 collection is an assortment of delicate details in soft, airy hues. Pulling inspiration from the English rose garden at Mottisfont, the collection channels the seemingly endless rows of roses lining the garden’s winding paths.”

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Photography: Jessa Schifilliti, Photographer | Wedding Dress: Marchesa | Makeup: Bobbi Brown Cosmetics | Hair: Kevin Hughes | Location: Canoe Studios

The week leading up to your wedding day will undoubtedly be a whirlwind, packed with everything from beauty appointments to the rehearsal dinner and gatherings with out-of-town guests. Don’t let your overbooked calendar leave you feeling overwhelmed! Our dear friends at Easton Events are here to guide you. Learn how to plan for these activities in advance as well as tips on what to outsource, so you can enjoy this week to the fullest!

Outsource Welcome Bag Delivery

We love the idea of providing welcome bags for your out of town guests, but we always encourage our brides to outsource delivering the bags. Ask a good friend or family member who has offered to help or hire a local courier service. It is a time-consuming project, and it collides with such a busy time leading up to your wedding. We encourage any bride (and mother of the bride) to remove the delivery from her plate.

Plan Your Wardrobe

While this idea may seem obvious, the weeks leading up to the wedding can be very hectic. We recommend thinking through your wedding week wardrobe in advance to allow time for last minute alterations. Take photos of your outfit for each day on your phone so you can quickly reference the looks when the whirlwind of wedding week festivities begin.

Establish an Exit Strategy

It is so important for the bride to establish her graceful exit strategy, especially for multi-day wedding celebrations. For the Thursday and Friday night parties leading up to your big day, it can be challenging to pull yourself away from the fun unless you have a plan in place – and perhaps a wing woman to help you exit the crowds. To stay fresh and relaxed for the big day, establish a departure time before arriving at the event and rally a friend or family member to ensure you leave at the designated time to get your rest.

Create a Portrait Shot List

To make the most of your wedding day, you need to carve out time ahead of the wedding to think through your photography portrait shot list. It is important that you and your fiancé review the list with your family to make sure you cover all of the necessary bases. As you create your list, keep in mind that each family or group photo will take three to five minutes to arrange and photograph. To further streamline the process, you will want to assign a “photo wrangler” from each side of the family and provide him or her with the shot list. The photo wrangler is responsible for rallying the family, helping identify missing members in the photos, and helping move along the portraits portion of the day. The photographer will not know all of the members of your family, so it is important that you are detailed with your VIP list of pictures. Without this organized list, portraits can consume a lot of your time and limit your ability to enjoy your groom as well as your guests.

Plan the Ceremony Processional

Think through your ceremony and get it down on paper! We recommend creating a diagram of your ceremony so you can strategize the placement of your bridal party. Also list who will sit in the reserved rows and in what order they need to be seated. This way you won’t forget to seat your favorite uncle in the right place!

Avoid Wedding Day Activities

As the bride, you are going to be pulled in a lot of different directions by family, friends, bridal party, and out of town guests leading up to the wedding day. We highly recommend brides remove the stress of attending any wedding day activities and suggest planning formal luncheons and other events that would require the bride’s attendance to occur on the days leading up to or after the wedding. Instead, gather with your bridesmaids for pampering and relaxation the day of the wedding!

Turn Your Cell Off

Power down on your wedding day and designate a point person for any day-of questions or concerns, or put your maid of honor in charge of answering your cell. If you don’t, you will become the “help desk” for your friends and family.

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It’s not often that we’re at a complete loss for words, but that’s precisely what happened when we walked into Elizabeth Taylor’s former townhouse-turned-Elie Saab‘s Atelier for New York Bridal Week. Everywhere we looked, a different couture creation was on display, each one an absolute fairytale. The whole experience left us completely mesmerized, which is how we’re predicting you’ll feel after poring through these gorgeous images from Love & Light Photographs!

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Photography: Jessa Schifilliti, Photographer | Wedding Dress: Elie Saab

If you think you’ve got to play it safe with neutrals in order to have an elegant wedding, take a look at this day to be kindly convinced otherwise. Rich with moody jewel tones and metallic accents, this rustic-meets-modern affair embraces color in a way we wholeheartedly adore. Ashley Kelemen photographed the wedding in a way only a true artist could, and we’re soaking up every last second.

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From Ashley Kelemen… Juliana and Carl planned an intimate day for their closest family and friends, with a focus on both organic and geometric details, and the comfort and joy of their guests. They worked with Olive Willow Designs to design incredible florals to make the beautiful space of the villa really pop. A highlight of the day was when Carl serenaded his bride during the ceremony, to the delight of everyone in attendance. Overall, this event was full of personal details and huge smiles from beginning to end!

Photography: Ashley Keleman | Coordination: The Villa San Juan Capistrano | Floral Design: Olive Willow Designs | Cake: It's All About The Cake | Hair + Makeup: Sharon Y. Park | DJ: Keith Divel | Venue: The Villa San Juan Capistrano | Paper Goods: Christine Turner

When this fun-loving couple decided to renew their vows on their 10 year anniversary, they wanted to plan a celebration that paid homage to their wedding, included the bride’s heritage, and incorporated their love as a couple for Mexican cuisine and culture – so naturally, they landed on a fiesta! With the planning and styling help of Two Be Wed and the crazy talented floral arranging skills of Flower Power Productions, the bride (half of the duo behind Mustard Seed Photography) created a vibrant celebration filled with Mexican touches including churros, tequila tasting, a cigar bar, a taco truck, and so much more! Hello, best day ever. Captured by Paloma Blanca Fine Art Photography, this is a gallery that cannot be missed.

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From the Bride… When Derek and I got married 10 years ago, we were young 21 year old college kids eager to spend the rest of our lives together. I won’t say we rushed the wedding, but I will say he proposed in June and we were married by September. All the formalities of weddings just weren’t our thing then, so we decided to do a quick ceremony at our favorite art gallery in San Antonio, had a friend shoot the big day, and celebrated with about 40 close friends and family at our favorite Mexican restaurant. We honeymooned in Mexico City – it’s full of vibrant colors and art, music and fun.

The next few years of our lives were a whirlwind! As we passed our nine year anniversary, we knew we wanted to do something special for the big 10, but we weren’t sure what. We talked about how we could pay homage to our love story, somehow including my Mexican heritage and our love of the Mexican culture, and it was then that we decided on a fiesta.

If 10 years of marriage has taught us anything, it’s that above all else, you have to focus on what matters to you most – so we ran with it! Being in the wedding industry, I contacted some of my closest friends to help me put my ideas into motion. We brought on an incredibly talented florist, known for his unique and vibrant designs, and a styling/planning company who always puts together the most creative and well-thought out weddings. Together they created something magical – like a fiesta, but even better. The celebration was filled with unique design elements and lots of fun stations for our guests to enjoy: churros, tequila tasting, a cigar bar, and so much more! It took my husband just over a month, but he personally made all the wooden signage for each station AND did the calligraphy! Yes, I know he’s amazing. Instead of a traditional seated dinner, we had a food truck come from one of our favorite restaurants.

Instead of a traditional ceremony, we did a special vow exchange. We had a mariachi band play during our guests’ arrival and were then introduced to our friends and family. We went straight into our vow exchange, with our guests circling all around us. I have never felt so connected to those who mean everything to me. We sobbed during our vow renewal and heard our guests crying happy tears too. We made sure to incorporate our eight-year-old daughter by giving her a beautiful Mexican necklace. As we kissed and danced, our guests all shook maracas. It was so magical and fun!

It was without a doubt one of the best nights of my life and the perfect complement to our wedding. We have SO many gorgeous photos documenting the day, taken by my best friend (and partner at Mustard Seed), Alicia Pyne, who shoots film under her brand Paloma Blanca Fine Art. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to celebrate our anniversary!

After 10 years of marriage, we have learned that it isn’t always easy. There will be hardships and there will be tough times, but overcoming those hardships together as a couple is what makes a marriage worth it all – to know that you will still be able to stand across from the one you love and come out on top. Make time for each other above all else because after the wedding day is over and the honeymoon has come to an end, work will get busy, days will seem shorter, and on the really hard days you may even forget the “whys” of marriage. Keep your love close and never forget that the two of you are what matters the most. And most importantly, be best friends! Laugh together often and always find ways to keep having fun with one another. Even on our worst days, I can always count on my husband to put a smile on my face!

Photography: Paloma Blanca Fine Art | Floral Design: Flower Power Productions | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Shoes: Topshop | Hair + Makeup : Sunkissed And Made Up | DJ: GTX Productions | Groom's Attire: Nordstrom | Venue: Madera Estates | Bowtie: The Bird & Pear | Churro Station: Don Churro | Event Planning + Styling: Two Be Wed | Food Truck: Tila's | Laser Cut Fiesta Details: Post-Studio Projects | Maracas + Fans: Amols | Mariachis: Yaneros Mariachis | Papel Picado Signage: Vintagebabydoll | Personalized Party Goods: Sip Hip Hooray | Table Runners: Mesa Chic | Veil: Brides And Hairpins | Wooden Signs: Handmade by Groom

If you are anything like us, you are counting down the minutes until it is socially acceptable to bust out your favorite margarita. And we officially deem that moment to be NOW. It is Cinco de Mayo after all so the perfect guac and a signature sip are in order. Give your standard fare a dash of sparkle with this delicious recipe courtesy of Erin McLean and Nancy Ray. Salud!

Erin LepperdCinco De Mayo Sparkling Margaritas

prep time 5 Minute/s

cook time

total time 5 Minute/s

Serves 0Ingredients

• 2oz 1800 Tequila
• 4 oz Tres Agaves Margarita Mix
• 1 Lime, cut into wedges
• 1 T of sugar
• 1 T of sugar in the raw
• 1 Bottle of Chilled Prosecco
• Herb Garnish of your choice
• 1 Cocktail Shaker
• 2 Cocktail Glasses

Instructions

1. Pick out your favorite festive glasses, you can use a fun champagne flute or a margarita glass!
2. Ready your rim! Sugar in the raw and regular sugar on a small plate, use a lime slice to moisten the rim of your glass and dip in the sugar mixture.
3. Grab your fav Margarita mix - you can use a pre-made or homemade - your pick! We selected Tres Agaves organic mix from World Market! You'll just need a cocktail shaker, white tequila, and ice for this part. Shake it up (dance around if you need to!) and pour mixture into glasses. About 1/2 way will do it!
4. Top off with chilled prosecco and garnish with a lime wedge and a fresh sprig of rosemary or mint for an extra pop of fresh!
5. Pair with your favorite taco recipe and you've got a party!

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Photographer: Nancy Ray Photography | Film Processing: Indie Film Lab | Portico Pictures Studio: Portico Pictures Studio | Stylist: Erin McLean Events

Paris can do no wrong in our eyes and that sentiment shines through in this gorgeous bridal inspiration crafted by French Grey Events. A lush bouquet and a lace and chiffon gown are the perfect match for the architectural beauty of the most romantic city in all the land. And so too is the photography genius of Michael and Carina. Get lost in the beauty of Paris and a stunning bride with each and every image right here.

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From the Photographers… The American Church of Paris with its stunning architecture made for the most beautiful backdrop for this elegant Parisian bridal editorial. The set of images showcase the different emotional stages a bride goes through before getting married: she is nervous, excited, playful, feels empowered, feels bittersweet. This introspective journey in the “city of love”, which is rich in love, happiness, loneliness and heaviness all at once, created an appealing backstory to this editorial.

Photography: Michael And Carina Photography | Dress: Lihi Hod | Shoes : Jimmy Choo | Hair and Makeup: Harold James | Event Venue: American Church In Paris | Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Floral Design, Planning and Styling: French Grey Events | Model: Fanny Beladona | Mohair Jumper: Maison Floret

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When a storm roles in just a few days before an outdoor wedding, most would end up panicked – but not this couple. Instead, with the help of Victoria Canada Weddings and Events, they acquired a beautiful, clear top tent for the ceremony. With its strings of lights, vibrant florals, and wildly beautiful photos by Rachel Solomon, this Arizona wedding is pure magic.

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From the Bride… Blaise proposed to me in front of my entire family on top of Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa (where my family is from). I soon found out that I was the only one who wasn’t in on the proposal, and I was swept off my feet! That day, my mom gave me a stack of bridal and wedding magazines so we could begin the planning. My mom and I had been dreaming of my wedding day since I was a little girl – and now we could finally plan the real thing!

When Blaise and I were asked by our wedding planner what we wanted on our wedding day, we both agreed that the most important thing was that everyone have the most fun time at our wedding. We are both pretty simple people; we didn’t want extra “stuff.” We just wanted everyone to be present with us in a beautiful setting and to share in our happiness.

We chose the Phoenix Country Club for our wedding because I have been going there since I was a kid, and it is a beautiful venue large enough for our 250 guests. I have always pictured myself getting married outdoors, but the weather forecast the week before the wedding said it would be cold and rainy. Our amazing wedding planner, Victoria Canada, told us not to worry and found the most beautiful tent for our outdoor ceremony just days before the wedding. It ended up being even more beautiful and magical than we could have ever imagined. The lights strung across the tent made it feel like we were getting married under the stars.

Our wedding was filled with bright and vibrant flowers overlaying rustic decor – it was truly dreamy. Blaise and I smiled so much our cheeks hurt. We are so grateful to everyone who made the day come together so flawlessly. Our amazing parents provided so much love and support, and our incredible team of vendors and Victoria Canada Weddings and Events made our dream a reality. I wish we could do it all again, but we have the amazing photos by Rachel Solomon to remember every detail.

From Victoria Canada Weddings and Events… Gina and Blaise were such a fun couple. They were both on the same page along with Gina’s mom, so it was quite the fun, decisive, and creative wedding client team!

Gina wanted her florals to be bold but romantic. They felt lush and overflowing – a bit wild but had an elegant restraint. The wedding was in sunny Arizona, though Mother Nature had alternate plans. We had an epic storm come through 72 hours before the wedding, which made for a cold and windy day. We ultimately installed a clear top tent, and the end result was quite magical. I felt like it was a perfect little jewel box dripping with portofino lights, stunning floral installations, and a beautiful chuppah. The guests felt warm and cozy, and it was special for all in attendance to be present to this beautiful union.

We transformed the ballroom at Phoenix Country Club with a beautiful garden effect. We balanced the dark jade linen with the lightness of the drape. Florals entwined in the chandeliers over the dance floor for a botanical effect. It was truly magical, and we could not be happier for Gina and Blaise. They were amazing to work with and flexible with the weather options!

Photography: Rachel Solomon Photography | Cinematography: Sula Studios | Event Planning: Victoria Canada Weddings and Events | Floral Design: Petal Pusher | Wedding Dress: Saja | Invitations: Celebrations in Paper | Reception Venue: Phoenix Country Club | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Joanna August | Makeup: Corinna B | Lighting: Karma Event Lighting | DJ: Mancini Entertainment | Groom's Attire: Suitsupply | Bridal Boutique: BHLDN | Bridesmaids Boutique: Bella Bridesmaid | Draping: Quest Drape | Guitar: Erick Hasbun | Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Classic Party Rentals | Ring Box: The Mrs Box

Bold color and vibrant details are woven throughout this desert inspiration and it embodies the beauty of Palm Springs to a T. With lush florals in sorbet hues by Blue Ladder Botony, summery details crafted by Lux Events and Design and all so beautifully photographed by Jacqui Cole, get lost in a gallery as stunning as they come.

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From the Photographer… Our vibrant bridal editorial shoot took place in Palm Springs, CA. What better place to draw inspiration from than the decor and landscape around the Palm Springs area! The brand new La Serena Villas created the most beautiful backdrop for the stunning tablescape and bridal portraits. Blue Ladder Botany created pure magic with the floral arrangements. The combination of ruffly garden roses, tender spirea, and luscious spring ranunculus and poppies brought delicate textures and a pop of summer color to our otherwise neutral backdrop. The white-on-white of our tablescape was intended to mimic the white walls and architecture of the villas, while we wanted to florals to stand out and bring a fun and light hearted spirit to our inspiration. La Tavola linens added extra texture to the clean backdrop and I love the romantic length at the end of the table. Cherished rentals provided the crisp white dinner ware and Tono & Co fabric softened the setting. Our beautiful model wore an off-the-shoulder Christos Bridal gown from The White Magnolia. It blew so perfectly in the desert breeze, creating a air of elegance while still being soft and laid back. The shoot completely embodies the vibrate Palm Springs scene and brings both a boldness and romantic feel that we were looking for.

Photography: Jacqui Cole Photography | Florals: Blue Ladder Botany | Cake: Sweet & Saucy Shop | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Ring: Trumpet & Horn | Hair + Makeup: All Tressed Up | Hotel: La Serena Villas | Bridal Dress: The White Magnolia | Bridal Dress Designer: Christos | Bridal Jewelry: BHLDN | Chair Rental: Signature Party Rentals | Invite and Paper Goods: Kimberly Gilroy Design | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Model: Sara Polos | Planning + Coordination: Lux Events And Design | Rentals: Cherished Rentals | Ribbons + Fabric: Tono Co | Ring Box: The Mrs Box

To celebrate a sweet baby boy on the way, Mama and owner of The Everyday Co. (which we’re obsessed with), designed the prettiest of celebrations for her impending arrival. It’s an intimate party with friends and family all draped with the perfect touch of blue and a gorgeous nod to Japanese culture. And just wait until you see the mini-tour of Nikko’s nursery. It’s true perfection captured by Elizabeth LaDuca. Of course, we would expect nothing less from a design Allstar who’s wedding was off the charts good.

Inspired by baby Nikko’s nursery and the origin of his name, Kathryn, owner of The Everyday Co. And her husband, Jake Cacciapaglia, hosted an intimate and casual baby shower/open house. Among the love and support of their closest friends and family, their baby shower was a celebratory afternoon of delicious food, and all things that mean the most to the Boston couple in their new Dorchester, Massachusetts home.

The parents wanted the day to be a celebration of their little one and their growing family. Guests arrived at Kathryn and Jake’s new home in Dorchester, Massachusetts through a noren, a traditional Japanese entryway, which was cut, sewn and hand-dip dyed by Kathryn and her mother. Inside their home, the ambiance was accented with dusty blues, neutrals, chambray & linen to create a peaceful and inspired environment.

 A brightly lit dining and living area was filled with tall branches of white cherry blossom cascading down over a beautiful feast of delicious bites from Michelle Mumford of UnCommon Feasts. The savory and sweet menu Kathryn and Michelle created together was designed to be the center of the event.

Beautifully styled by the mom herself, guests enjoyed rotisserie chicken and waffles with pickled vegetables and wasabi microgreens; butternut squash tarte tatin; sauteed swiss chard tarte tartin topped with currant pine nut relish; fennel and baby kale salad with blood orange and pickled shallots, an array of colorful dips including fava puree with cured olives and feta, moroccan roasted eggplant spread, whipped feta with roasted red pepper, and beet tzatziki; and hand-cut blue potato chips and buttermilk dill.

 Guests were also invited to paint wooden toy blocks in Kathryn’s home studio for baby Nikko’s toy chest.

For a sweeter side, banana tart; blueberry dutch baby pancake; roasted halved pears with Greek yogurt, honey and pistachios; bomboloni filled with handmade blackberry jam; yogurt parfaits with homemade jam and local gluten-free granola. To sip on—Michelle’s homemade chai presented ceramic teacups by a friend of the couple’s, Boston Potter, Jeremy Ogusky, and a signature cocktail, The Little Cadet, muscadet, apricot and sparkling water. The parents also served refreshing Cawston pressed juices.

For something sweet, Kathryn worked with Jocelyn Pierce of Mayflour Confections for a custom two-tiered cake, her signature macarons and meringues. Half traditional almond cake, the mom’s favorite, and the bottom chocolate, the dad’s favorite! And of course, Everyday Signature Napkins, perfectly coordinated with the menu and decor.

As a show of gratitude for being a part of their special day, guests were treated to hand-wrapped boxes of the parents favorite gluten-free, handmade granola from The Yellow Plum Granola, handmade in Gloucester, Massachusetts (the same granola used in the yogurt parfaits). Each was wrapped in the traditional Japanese style of a furoshiki using a custom Everyday Co. Blue Denim Chambray Dinner Napkin. 

The Nursery

A neutral haven that nursery dreams are made of, Kathryn and Jake designed Nikko’s room from their recent trip to Japan (where they shared the news of their pregnancy on a family trip and got his name from—Nikko National Park) and their love for travel.

 The Great Wave wallpaper by Cole & Son sets the stage for this dreamy and serene nursery inspired by the iconic Great Wave of Kanagawa. With a darling origami crane mobile above Nikko’s dresser, the walls are also adorned with silkscreened prints and posters collected through mom and dad’s time together and travels like a retro Hawaiian poster from their babymoon, and mementos from Cannon Beach, Oregon

 The room is filled with comforts like pillows made with fabric they brought back from Japan and a handmade quilt Kathryn’s mom had made by Caitlin Topham, Kathryn’s lead sewer for The Everyday Co.

She also incorporated fabric from Japan and the colors of his room. The Monte Jackson Rocker was a surprise gift from Kathryn to Jake—it was his favorite piece while shopping for Nikko’s nursery.

Sources

Wallpaper: Great Wave by Cole & Son | Rocker: Jackson Rocker by Monte | Wander Bag: FORESTBOUND (handmade in Somerville, Massachusetts) | Bunny Pillows: The Everyday Co., fabric from Kathryn & Jake’s recent trip to Japan | Quilt: Salty Oat (handmade in Massachusetts), fabric from Japan | Crib: Hudson crib by Babyletto | Dresser: IKEA | Crane Mobile: Handmade with maps by a family member

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Photography: Elizabeth LaDuca | Dress: Asos | Invitations: Minted | Catering: Michelle Mumford, UnCommon Feasts | Calligraphy: Quinn Luu | Cake, Meringue + Macarons: Mayflour Confections | Event Design, Styling + Florals: The Everyday Napkin | Everyday Signature Napkins: The Everyday Napkin | Favor Wrapping: The Everyday Napkin | Granola Favors: The Yellow Plum | Home: Home | Nursery 'Bunny' pillows: The Everyday Napkin | Nursery 'Wander' Bag: Forest Bound | Nursery Crane Mobile: Handmade by family member | Nursery Crib: Babyletto | Nursery Quilt: Salty Oat | Nursery Rocker: Monte Glider (Colour: Stone) | Nursery Wallpaper: Cole & Son

When you date in front of a national audience a la The Bachelor, you learn a thing or two about the game of love. At least that’s the case for our blogger bride, Whitney Bischoff who went on to find “the one” after her television debut. Today both Whitney and her fiancé, Ricky Angel are here to share their relationship words of wisdom, and you better believe these two are #RelationshipGoals to the max. Take it away, Whit and Ricky!

How did you know you’d found “the one”?

(Fill in the blank) My favorite kind of date includes ___?

Ricky: Whitney. Wrigley Field. And a consistent beer vendor.

Whitney: Ricky. Lillie. Good wine. Good music. Lots of giggles and memories we can’t wait to tell our kids!

Tips to keep the wedding planning phase stress-free and fun?

Ricky: Don’t tell your fiancé “I don’t care.” Ever! Even if your goal is to make her happy, make sure to communicate. Even if in your mind it doesn’t matter, understand that your opinion is still significant.

Whitney: Build a wedding team that understands your vision and who you can trust. TRUST is key. If your team doesn’t see your vision, you’re achieving nothing.

Best marriage advice you’ve received?

Whitney: I want to start with this one. If you always put your significant other before yourself. You are golden.

Ricky: The best advice we’ve ever received so far was actually not long term but with regards to our wedding reception. Include a sweetheart table to always have a place to come back to and realize you have each other not just for that one night, but forever.

The moment you’re most looking forward to on your wedding day?

Ricky: Standing up at the altar, brother behind me and future brother-in-law ready to officiate our wedding. I’ll be looking out at all our family and closest friends and then the processional music will start and Whitney will turn the corner arm-in-arm with Mamaw…not sure any man will ever have a wider smile than I will in that moment.

Whitney: I don’t think I can top that. I’m becoming an Angel!

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Photography: Carly Michelle Photography | Cinematography: Brighter Lights Media | Floral Design: The Wild Dahlia | Stationery: Amanda Day Rose | Makeup : Natalie Lelless | Hair: Jennifer Tawa | Blogger Bride: Whitney Bischoff | Event Planning, Design + Styling: Always Yours Events | Rentals: Kadeema Rentals

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The Wild Dahlia

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Petit Bouquet

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What happens when you bring Gatsby grandeur to the mountains of North Carolina? An unforgettable wedding! Asheville Event Co. drew inspiration from the bride’s favorite movie, incorporating quotes and music from the F. Scott Fitzgerald’s masterpiece throughout the big day. With the help of Floressence Flowers and La Tavola Linens, they created an enchanting space – lucky for us, Parker J Pfister Photography captured the eclectic, glamorous event. See it all in the Vault, then get swept away in the film by Caravan Cinematography.

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From the Bride… Prior to planning our wedding, we envisioned a small private wedding in an outdoor setting during the summer. Since our happiest times have been spent in the mountains, we made it our mission to find the perfect mountain setting to exchange vows. After visiting multiple destinations in Vermont (Dave’s home state), Colorado, and California, we knew the search had ended when we arrived at Old Edwards Inn (OEI) in North Carolina. We both had never been in that area before, but it offered a central destination for extended family. Sitting atop a scenic, southwest plateau in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains with OEI’s 5-star resort services made it the perfect setting for our event.

“The Great Gatsby” influenced us, as it is one of my favorite movies, so we incorporated romantic and whimsical F. Scott Fitzgerald quotes into our invitations, cocktail napkins, ceremony, and seating placement signs and chose an overall theme of eclectic glamour. Our first dance was to Lana Del Ray’s, “Young and Beautiful.” As guests entered the ceremony, we served champagne in coupe glasses with a dusted sugar rim. It was important to us that we had a really fun party – luxurious, like Gatsby’s parties were. We even included modern songs from the movie’s soundtrack played by our fifteen piece live band. Guests were also greeted by a sign with a dramatic floral arrangement with a Gatsby quote: “And so with the sunshine and great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow fast in the movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with summer.”

We had a few favorite moments throughout the day. Of course, our absolute favorite was the exchange of the vows. My cousin married us – he is known as being hilarious, and he did not disappoint. We were also extremely fortunate to have great speeches at the beginning of the reception by the best man, maid of honor, and mother of the bride. Our family really put a lot of thought into what they said, and those words made all the difference. My other favorite moment was our first dance! After months of practice, the crowd went wild when Dave spun me into his arms and into the air for the grand finale.

Dave and I chose to have a dessert bar opposed to a single large cake. I tend to have a sweet tooth, so I wanted a variety of items available for guests to choose from. Once the dance party started, we distributed aviator sunglasses, glow sticks, and jello shots to get the party really going. We finished with a sparkler exit. The pièce de résistance of the entire event was having all the people we love in one room at the same time.

For all brides-to-be out there, don’t forget to take a time (off to the side) for you and your new husband to look around and savor the moment. Try to be present and share in the love and party that’s happening around you. Also, do your vendor homework. Unexpected things can happen the day of the event, and it’s important to have professional people around you to deal with these items – huge kudos to my great team!

Photography: Parker J Photography | Cinematography: Caravan | Event Planning: Asheville Event Co. | Floral Design: Floressence Flowers | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Hair and Makeup: Brushworx Hair & Makeup | Hair and Makeup: DanielleStyle | Lighting: Get Lit Special Event Lighting | Band: I Love This Band | Venue: The Old Edwards Inn And Spa | Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Lisa Handman | Invitation and Printed Materials: Atheneum Creative | Invitations and Printed Materials: Atheneum Creative | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Classic Event Rental

After viewing this spectacular gallery of images by Kelly Kollar Photography and the heartwarming film by McKenize Miller, I’m convinced I need a weekend getaway at the wedding’s New York venue – the charming Bedford Post Inn. Complete with picturesque gardens and an intimate dining space, the Inn had just enough rooms to house the bridal party and the bride and groom’s parents for the weekend. TRUE Event and Hana Floral Design complemented the setting perfectly with stunning decor and gorgeous blooms, making this fall wedding a can’t miss.

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From the Bride… Despite living around the corner from each other as babies on Long Island, Derek and I actually never met until we were both living in Manhattan after college. After 20+ years, our first meeting was long overdue. I knew Derek was going to be my husband on our first date, and it wasn’t much later that Derek told his family that he was going to marry me.

One Sunday in autumn 2015, Derek told me to dress up for a fancy dinner but wouldn’t reveal the destination. Surprise locations for our “date nights” were not unusual, so I didn’t ask questions. I should’ve realized Derek had a different type of surprise in mind when he took me out on the roof deck of our building – in November! His real plans became clear when he dropped down to his knee to propose. Derek must have been quite busy planning this surprise since Kelly Kollar (our photographer) was there to capture the proposal from behind a bush a few feet away. After the proposal, Derek asked me to choose the one place I wanted to celebrate our engagement to which I replied the NoMad Restaurant. The final surprise was when he whisked me away to the NoMad roof where our families (and Kelly) greeted us for cocktails followed by a private dinner in the rooftop cupola.

Derek and I spent a lot of time researching wedding venues, and we came close to submitting a deposit for one in Manhattan. Luckily for us, we didn’t commit until we visited the last potential destination on our list, the Bedford Post Inn, located one hour north of Manhattan. Touring the indoor and outdoor spaces in the crisp autumn air and eating in its intimate restaurant made us feel right at home. The Inn had just enough rooms to accommodate the bride and groom, our parents, and our wedding party on the wedding night. After we said goodbye to most of our guests after the reception, we changed into sweatpants and ended our night with chicken fingers, french fries, and grilled cheese with our parents and wedding party.

My favorite part of wedding planning was dress shopping. I took full advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by trying on as many gowns as possible! I found “the one” by Mira Zwillinger on Pinterest. After exhaustive research, I went to the only salon in the Tri-State area, Mark Ingram Atelier, that carried that particular gown. The dress was perfect, and I could tell my mom agreed when I saw tears in her eyes.

I wanted our wedding favors to be personal. As an avid baker, I decided to bake 190 chocolate chip cookies in my parents’ kitchen just days before the wedding. Everyone (and I mean everyone) said I was crazy when I announced my plans. But they all thanked me when they were able to enjoy a homemade cookie after a night of drinks and dancing.

It was really easy for me to lose sight of what was important while managing the wedding planning process and dealing with sensory overload from Pinterest, Instagram, and bridal magazines. My advice to future brides is to remember what the day is actually about – marrying the love of your life in the presence of your family and friends. All the little details made our wedding great, but ultimately, sharing our happiness as husband and wife for the first time in the company of our family and friends made it perfect.

Photography: Kelly Kollar Photography | Cinematography: McKenzie Miller Films | Event Planning: TRUE Event | Wedding Dress: Mira Zwillinger | Cake: Palmer's Bakery | Ceremony Venue: St. Patricks Catholic Church In Bedford, NY | Reception Venue: Bedford Post Inn | Shoes: Paul Andrew | Rings: Pacicco & Pacicco | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Joanna August | Catering: Bedford Post Inn | Makeup: Andy Jablow from Greenwich Saks Bobbi Brown | Hair: Martina Steed from Dream Spa & Salon | Band: Blake Band | Ties: Salvatore Ferragamo | Bridal Boutique: Mark Ingram Atelier | Earrings: A E Betteridge Jewelers | Floral Design and Decor: Hana Floral Design | Groom and Groomsmen Attire: Ralph Lauren | Invitations and Stationery: J Papers | Tent Rentals: Stamford Tent & Event Services

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Hana Floral Design

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