Once you visit Maine, there’s no going back. Its magic sinks in and you’re in love for life. Hence why these two decided to say “I do” among its natural beauty at the historic and charming Chebeaugue Island Inn. With the ocean in the background and greenery all around, Emily Delamater captured these cuties and the love that overflowed. Get ready to get pinning (these petals!) in our Vault right this way!

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From the Bride… Having both vacationed in Maine growing up, Harrison and I knew it would be the perfect place to celebrate the next step in our lives. We looked at a number of venues along the coast, but as soon as we stepped foot on Chebeague Island, we fell in love. The historic Chebeague Island Inn offered stunning views of the Casco Bay, coupled with chic onsite accommodations (for her), a delicious restaurant, and even a 9-hole golf course (for him). It was a place where our guests could escape, stay onsite, and take part in all of the weekend festivities – a vacation for everybody involved. It is also a place we knew our family would continue to visit for many years to come.

There is a distinct vintage, coastal vibe that permeates the property – the 1920s building has great architectural bones and captures the best of Maine’s unassuming charm. I largely drew inspiration for our color palette from the faded florals of the Great Room upholstery – soft, neutral, and feminine – accented by the blues of the ocean water, lush greenery of the landscape, warm yellow of the building’s façade, and shades of turquoise from the colorful porch ceiling. We wanted to highlight the subtle beauty of the island and create a feeling of relaxed elegance mixed with a little bohemian nonchalance – timeless, yet youthful and fun.

Our wedding was a true family affair filled with DIY adventures. With the help of family and friends, my mother collected all of the milk glass from thrift stores up and down the East Coast; Harrison’s parents built our custom corn hole boards and visited salvage yards to hand-select the wood they painted for our signage; and I finally challenged myself to learn calligraphy, something I had long wished to do, so that I could write the invitation envelopes and escort cards. Style Me Pretty was one of my key resources during the planning process, helping me to discover many of the talented vendors with whom we ended up working. Maine also has an incredible network of wedding professionals, and the best piece of advice I have for brides-to-be is this: identify your top priorities for your wedding day and then work with a team you admire and trust to help make that vision come to life.

Our wedding day was without a doubt one of the most relaxing days we have shared as a couple. Everything came together, but more importantly, Harrison and I were together celebrating our love and commitment to one another with the support of our dearest family and friends. We are so thankful for the love that surrounded us that day and cannot wait until our next trip to the island!

Photography: Emily Delamater Photography | Cinematography: Velare | Floral Design: Field | Wedding Dress: Rue De Seine | Cake: Cake Elizabeth | Invitations: Jolly Edition | Bride's Shoes: Valentino | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Joanna August | Catering: Chebeague Island Inn, Maine | Hair: Aphrodite Salon | Calligraphy: Bride | Band: Jim Ciampi Band | Groom's Attire: Indochino | Officiant: A Sweet Start | Venue: Chebeague Island Inn, Maine | Earrings: Ippolita | Robes: Plum Pretty Sugar | Save the Dates: Minted | Second Wedding Dress: Joanna August | Tent Rentals + Rentals: Affordable Events | Velvet Ring Box: The Mrs Box

On the hunt for the perfect gift for the foodie on your list? You know the one with a library of cook books, a knowledge of all the best eateries in town and the one that always has the most amazing snack spread when you come over? Yeah that one is going to love this gift guide. But really, it works for anyone that enjoys cooking, baking, eating or all of the above.

Gifts with a Side of Yum

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Gifts with a Side of Yum

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Tucked away in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains is Castle Ladyhawke, a little taste of Europe brought to the South. It served as the perfect setting for Hillary and Matt’s special day and you can see it through Cody Hunter’s lens in The Vault.

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From the Bride…The mountains have always been special to our relationship. That’s where Matt proposed and where we had a special moment talking about our hopes and dreams. At first we wanted to elope, but as time went on we wanted to have our immediate family and a few close friends. We wanting something intimate, private, secluded, and beautiful. What could be more perfect than a castle huddled in by a beautiful mountain range? Most importantly, we planned the day to spend our wedding together and inseparable because we’re so madly in love!

Photography: Hunter Ryan Photo | Event Design: Elleson Events | Floral Design: Elleson Events | Catering: Lil Harvey’s | Calligraphy: Townley Creative | Venue: Castle Ladyhawke | Film Processing: PhotoVision Prints | Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Classic Event Rental

I am fully savoring and soaking up every bit this holiday season—for some reason it is flying by for me, is it for you? With three weeks left until St. Nick comes to town, there’s still plenty of time though to cram in all the holiday movies, bake all the Christmas cookies and visually enjoy the layer of pretty frosting we’ve added to our home decor. See our full countdown list below!

3 Week Christmas Countdown To Do List

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3 Week Christmas Countdown To Do List

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10 Gift Ideas for the Person that Has Everything
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My favorite part about our fireplace (aside from all the cozy winter nights) is decorating our mantel for the holidays and of course, hanging the stockings! And then filling them up with goodies on Christmas Eve. Even the fur babies get a little something in theirs. But my personal favorite item to pull out of the stocking? Pretty little items I can add to my beauty collection. From the cutest hair ties to a sweet smelling spritz, below are 20 fab finds under $20!

20 Beauty Finds Under $20 Perfect for the Stylish Stocking

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20 Beauty Finds Under $20 Perfect for the Stylish Stocking

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It’s that time of year! I’ve begun to deck our halls with festive flair, and I continue to get giddy as I unwrap all the seasonal decor that’s been stowed away for months. My favorites? The special pieces we received as newlyweds, the “First Year Together” ornaments, the holiday platters, and more! They may make a brief appearance only once a year, but these items shine bright so don’t forget to add them to your wedding registries! Need some ideas… we’re happy to help :)

Deck the Halls with These Festive Finds

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Deck the Halls with These Festive Finds

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The Smart Bride + Groom’s Guide to Wedding Registries

SMP’s Wedding Registry ABCs | Unique Wedding Registry Ideas | 10 Must-Have Registry Items

Macy’s
Food52

Any former bride would agree: it takes a village to put together a wedding. Every vendor plays a fundamental role in helping it all come together, so you, the bride-to-be, can do what you’re supposed to do: enjoy! To ensure everyone has a pleasant and productive experience, Marisa Nicole Events is sharing their insight on dealing with vendors and making the most of the planning process!

Getting Started

Three words… plan in advance! Before you even think about contacting vendors, be sure to know what your budget is, both overall and specifically for the service of the company you are meeting with. Once you do start connecting with potential vendors, let them know your price point and ask them what services they can include while staying true to that. Many brides worry that presenting a strict budget means vendors will shy away from giving her everything she wants for the wedding, but it is in fact the opposite! When vendors have an honest, clear budget to work with, and a straightforward idea of what you have in mind, each will do what they can to make it happen within your price range (and if they can’t, you’ll save a lot of time not communicating with vendors you can’t afford). As always, throughout the research process with potential vendors, kindness is key!

Booking + Negotiations

Hooray! You’ve decided on a vendor to book, now you just need to solidify details and make things official! Here is where the precedence is set for what your relationship with each vendor looks like moving forward. Through all the planning and design, remember that each vendor plays a massive part in making your day everything you want it to be, so treat your vendors with respect. When the potential vendors present you with their fees, understand that if you have been consistently specific and kind, it is their honest price. Trying to haggle a price point or talking them down can give off vibes that say you’re feeling as if the vendor isn’t worth what they think they are. Constant kindness from you means when it comes down to it, vendors will bend over backwards for you!

Wedding Logistics

As you approach the date of the event, don’t forget to continue to communicate with your vendors! Don’t assume they’re off doing their job and don’t need to hear from you anymore. Ask for each vendor’s collaboration by sending your contact the working day of timeline. See if what you have planned is setting their team up for success. When your contact gives you feedback, actually take it into consideration and try to work it into the day of plan. If what he or she is asking for just isn’t possible, be sure to communicate why, keeping the lines of communication open and allowing each vendor to feel as if his or her expert opinion is valued. If your vendors don’t feel heard, they are much less likely to give you their all on the big day. Be clear and interactive.

Execution

When the big day arrives, the most important thing to keep in mind with vendors is to never, ever treat them like they are just paid workers. Each one of your wedding team members has shown up to make your special day even more wonderful, and should be treated as kindly and with as much respect as one of your guests. The key is to remember that although your vendors are providing a professional service on your wedding day, they are still people too, just doing his or her best to make your celebration fabulous. Additionally – please feed your vendors in a timely manner! We suggest having the vendors eat at the same time that your guests do, as you wouldn’t want them to have to miss a minute of the action once speeches and dancing commence (the photographer can’t snag photos of your bestie’s Maid of Honor rap if the vendor meal is served at the same time and a hungry band won’t able to perform their best with tummies rumbling).

Post-Wedding Etiquette

In the same way that our mothers taught us to say “please” (see the ‘Booking + Negotiations’ section above), they also taught us to say “thank you.” We at Marisa Nicole Events truly believe that showing your hard working vendors how much you appreciate them is a must if you want your vendors to feel like you are happy with their work. This is where tips (and a kind note) come in. Which vendors should you tip, you ask? Our rule of thumb is that you tip the team members who are actually present during your wedding, pouring their blood, sweat and tears into making your day a success (whether or not the person on-site is an employee or the owner of the company)! If your vendor did a fantastic job and played a part in making your wedding as perfect as you had hoped, then we recommend a tip and a nice note to thank him or her for their service! If they’re not tipped, vendors will take it as a hint that they didn’t do a good job. Give them love if they did their job well.

In Sum

The bottom line is, always be as sweet as possible to your vendors! You will always catch more flies with honey. Kindness is the the key to having the most productive interactions, getting the best price, and having the best overall experience. Just remember that it’s your day, and your vendors are there to make it phenomenal! Happy booking!

Common Wedding Planning Mistakes

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Common Wedding Planning Mistakes

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ONGOING GIVEAWAYS + DISCOUNTS…  

Skillshare
Animoto
Ada Diamonds
Fine Art by Deann
DHP

We’re excited to share that Shine invitations is currently offering FREE SHIPPING on orders over $500 (US orders only) as well as a free sample kit featuring the invitation of your choice, color charts, paper samples, and an example Save the Date! Don’t miss out!

THIS WEEK’S DISCOUNTS…

For our California Brides… Discount from The Ranch at Laguna Beach

For our Southwest Brides… Don’t miss upcoming trunk shows at Lovely’s in Houston!

For our New England Brides.. Discount from Long’s Jewelers (Estate Jewelry and Wedding Bands)!

For our Tri-state Brides… Discount from Femina Photo + Design, giveaways from NST Pictures and OLLI STUDIO, and don’t miss the Marchesa Bridal trunk show at Gabriella New York Bridal Salon Dec. 1st – 4th!

More trunk show news!

Don’t miss the Anna Campbell trunk shows at the following Lovely locations: Houston Dec. 9th- 11th | Charleston Dec. 16th – 18th!

Don’t miss the Rue De Seine trunk shows at the following Lovely locations: Philly Dec. 2nd – 4th | Miami Dec. 9th – Dec. 11th | San Francisco Dec. 16th – 18th | Washington DC Jan. 6th – 8th | Charleston Jan. 13th – 15th!

Vendor + Planning Advice: Marisa Nicole Events

‘Tis the season to shop ’til you drop and if you are anything like me, finding THE perfect present for your loved ones is some serious #holidaygoals. Enter Deann Hebert of Fine Art by Deann, a talented artist who just so happens to create masterpieces that will totally fit the bill. Think stunning layered paintings that are awesome for holiday AND wedding gifting, plus spicing up your newlywed abode. She’s our new obsession. Get to know her (and her amazing work) below.

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“Learning to trust the process and the journey has made all the difference for me. To utilize artwork as the channel to inspire, bring hope, honor our past, and make a connection on a deeper level is my motivation and conviction.” – Deann Hebert

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It was just a decade ago that Deann Hebert said goodbye to her corporate gig and opened up her art studio in a once-abandoned stove and mattress factory in Nashville.  Yes, she is THAT cool.  She’s also a mother, wife, farm owner, horse lover and artist that creates beautiful layered paintings (think tree bark or peeling barn paint) that feature soft, muted tones. From her awe-inspiring pieces on angels, churches and abstract trees to everything in between, Fine Art by Deann will inspire you with her talent and pretty up your home (and the homes of your loved ones!) in ways you never thought imaginable.  She’s just. that. good.

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“I believe that true calling comes when passion meets purpose. From my old factory studio, I continue to add layer upon layer to my own story.” – Deann Hebert

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Whether you’re looking to surprise every one you know with the gift of a lifetime this holiday or winter wedding season, or simply add a special piece to really complete your new home together as newlyweds, visit Fine Art by Deann online, on Instagram and on Facebook to check out her breathtaking work.

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GIVEAWAY

a Rafflecopter giveaway

What: Fine Art by Deann is giving away one (1) 30×30 image of the winner’s choice! PLUS $500 to spend on www.deanndesigns.com!

How: To enter, simply enter your email into the raffle above. The giveaway ends at 11:59 CST on 12/09/16. One (1) winner will be selected completely at random by Fine Art by Deann and will receive any 30×30 image, plus a $500 shop credit to be used on www.deanndesigns.com!

For Terms & Conditons and Privacy Policy: Click Here

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PROMOTION

Fine Art by Deann is offering a 15% off coupon to all SMP readers! Simply text STYLEMEPRETTY to 44222 or click here and receive a 15% off coupon code to use on www.deanndesigns.com.

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These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
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Petit Bouquet

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Ladies. I’m not necessarily saying that you need to seek out people with certain strengths to spend your life with but I’m also not saying that it hurts. Like this groom, for example. Built the cake table, the bar, and the photo-booth backdrop. Like with his own two hands. And when you pair that skill set with the genius of Cortney Helaine and the images from Natalie Schutt you have yourself an SMP wedding (ps…gorgeous dress and glowing bride don’t hurt either). Click here for more!

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From the Bride…I think the most exciting thing for both of us when planning our wedding was always trying to include ways that we could really make our wedding feel like us. We looked for small ways to do this without being overly clichéd, like an Italian inspired menu (a nod to our Italy engagement,) hand-written vows, and constructing much of the décor ourselves (one of my husband’s biggest hobbies is woodworking.) He built our cake table, the bar, and the photo-booth backdrop, to name a few.

My one piece of advice to brides would be to take moments on the day with your husband to stand back together and really “see” your day for what it is. One of my favorite moments from our wedding day happened during the reception. We were on the dance floor with some out-of-town family and my husband grabbed my hand and led me up a little hill just past the reception. We took about 60 seconds to stand and watch our own wedding. We both were in awe of how it came together, and how amazing it was to have so many loved ones come out to celebrate us in our new marriage. It was a nice way to slow down and have a moment to enjoy our wedding day together (trust me–being present on the day IS as hard as people warn you it will be!)

My favorite part of the planning process was working with my family to make it all come together. So many people were a part of helping us create our dream wedding (on a budget!) My mom handmade our favors, which were Pizelle–a traditional Italian cookie. My father-in-law helped my husband build most of our décor. My aunts, uncles, and cousins helped us assemble invites, place settings, and grand exit ribbons. It was such a team effort and those are memories that we will always hold on to.

My favorite moment, hands down, was reciting our own vows. We had planned to do this early on in our engagement, and I was terrified from day 1. Public speaking is SO not my thing. As the day came closer I got more and more nervous. Finally, about 3 days out, I tried to back out. My then-fiancé encouraged me to stick with it… And boy am I glad we did! I can’t describe it, but walking down the aisle towards Weston made all of my fears melt away in an instant. I didn’t see anything else or hear anything else. It was complete tunnel vision. The best part? Knowing that we made personal commitments to each other in front of closest friends and family. If you are even considering writing personal vows or statements, I’d say go for it!

Photography: Natalie Schutt Photography | Event Planning: Weddings by Cortney Helaine | Floral Design: Studio C Florals | Wedding Dress: Watters | Cake: Canyon Catering | Invitations: Minted | Bridesmaids' Dresses: David's Bridal | Catering: Canyon Catering | DJ: KSDJ | Groom's Attire: Macy's Bar III | Groomsmen's Attire: Macy's Bar III | Venue: Giracci Vineyards And Farms | Bridal Boutique: The White Dress In Corona Del Mar | Groomsmen's Accessories: The Tie Bar | Rentals: Signature Party Rentals

The hardest part of holiday shopping for me? Not buying two of everything. One for the gift receiver and one for me. SO bad, I know! But I have a feeling more than a few of you out there are guilty, too. I mean, how can we resist when the goods are this pretty? My advice? Set aside a budget for those little indulgences. I won’t tell!

23 Holiday Gifts that You'll Want to Keep for Yourself

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23 Holiday Gifts that You'll Want to Keep for Yourself

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Blue doesn’t get enough credit in my book. Blush often steals the thunder at weddings – and believe me, rightly so most of the time – but one look through Lisa O’Dwyer’s pics of this gorgeous Aspen wedding and you’ll be adding shades of blue to your color palette pronto. See all the beautiful hues in our Vault right this way!

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From the Bride… John and I are from Chicago, but ultimately decided to have a destination wedding in Aspen, Colorado, where John had grown up skiing with his family and where his parents now live part-time. It was so amazing to share our special day with our family and friends in such beautiful surroundings, as Aspen is truly gorgeous in the summertime.

I had such a wonderful time planning every detail with the amazing team of Virginia Edelson and Christine Follin of Bluebird Productions. We created a very classic and elegant design, with a blue and white color scheme reflected in many of the details from the invitations and day-of paper materials to the chinoiserie plates and vase arrangements on the dinner tables. Florals at the reception were clean and simple in shades of creams, whites and purples with lots of crisp greenery mixed in. The custom chandeliers trimmed in greenery that hung along the tent ceiling by The Aspen Branch were my absolute favorite, and really tied the design together. Our band, Tunisia, kept all of our guests celebrating and dancing throughout the night, and we couldn’t have asked for a more perfect celebration with our family and friends.

All of the details were captured by our talented photographer, Lisa O’Dwyer, and we truly love reliving the day each time we look through photos of this magical weekend!

Photography: Lisa O'Dwyer Photography | Cinematography: Elysium Productions | Event Planning: Bluebird Productions | Floral Design: The Aspen Branch | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Cake: d'Elissious | Invitations: Ellis Hill | Ceremony Venue: St. Mary's Catholic Church, Aspen | Reception Venue: Roaring Fork Club | Bride's Shoes: Charlotte Olympia | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Lula Kate | Makeup: Vanessa Vieni | Hair: Mi Hair | Groom's Attire: Ralph Lauren | Ceremony Music: Silver City Strings | Groom's Shoes: Johnston & Murphy | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Photography - Assistance: Tiffany Rebecca | Programs + Menus: Tasha Rae Designs | Reception Band: Tunisia | Save the Dates: Lana's Shop | Table Numbers, Welcome Package + Day-of Signage: Lana's Shop

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

Elysium Productions

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If you’re expecting a baby girl then let this nursery be your inspiration. Bows and blooms, blush and the cutest little babe too; it’s everything you’d expect from Team Sugar and Spice. Tour the pink HQ for baby Lily crafted by mom and wedding planner, Pamela of Post Scripted Studios plus photographs by Audra Wrisley. Psst… there’s even more right here in the vault.

Baby Lily’s blush nursery is all kinds of fabulous, from the paper floral accents and her stunning statement Land of Nod dresser with little bow pulls. Her mama has serious design skills, and is a talented DC wedding planner with Post-Scripted studios.

I absolutely loved her vision for Lily’s baby shoot in their gorgeous Arlington home, and was thrilled to capture this beautiful family of 3! After some sweet shots in Lily’s light-filled nursery, we ended the shoot with coffee, doughnuts and lots of snuggles.

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10 Ways To Make Your Baby's Nursery One-of-a-Kind

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10 Ways To Make Your Baby's Nursery One-of-a-Kind

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Photography : Audra Wrisley Photography | Capiz Pendant Light: Pottery Barn | Crepe Paper Flowers: Pottery Barn | Dresser: Land Of Nod | Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Handmade Mobile: Postscripted | Ikat Drapes: West Elm | Pajama Pants: Anthropologie | Rose Gold Baby Moccasins: Freshly Picked Moccasins | Salt & Pepper Pouf: Land Of Nod | Swaddle Blankets: Little Unicorn

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

Photography

Audra Wrisley Photography

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“Stylish” doesn’t even begin to describe the engagement session of Tom and Tim. In fact, these two gents took their impeccable sense of fashion and paired that with the backdrop of Tuscany for absurdly romantic photos captured by Rebecca Yale. Join us on their trek through Italy with lots more right over here.

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From Rebecca Yale Photography… My favorite thing about engagement sessions is they get to be a little slice of life so is there anything better than a destination engagement session which can perfectly capture the memories of an incredible trip exploring the Tuscan countryside? I spent a lovely Fall weekend photographing the incredibly sweet (and fashionable) Tom and Tim at Il Borro, a 1000-year-old castle estate, and medieval village in Tuscany owned by the Ferragamo family.

Tim, a former bronze medalist Olympic Ice Skater, was celebrating his master’s degree from NYU and of course their recent engagement. Tom popped the question at the historic Chanler in Newport, RI, where the couple will say their I Do’s next year. The trip was spent wine tasting, sightseeing in Cinque Terre, truffle hunting, shopping and eating way too much incredible Italian food. Minus a little rain in Cinque Terre we lucked out with a perfectly gorgeous Fall weekend, getting to enjoy the bright red leaves crawling up the wine caves and the perfect little breeze as we explored the medieval town.

The Proposal

From the Grooms… Planning an engagement proposal is very involved as there are many moving parts. For Tim and I, it started about 18 months before I actually proposed. In a non-traditional move, I mentioned to Tim that one day I could see us getting engaged. However, it would happen only after he went back to school to pursue a Masters in his field. With the proposal out there, I assumed it would be at least two to three years before we would potentially have serious conversation around being married; after all, at this time, marriage equality wasn’t even passed in New York yet and it was well before the Supreme Court decision made same-sex legal across all 50 states. But, Tim applied and was accepted into NYU Stern’s Masters program by that Fall 2015.

During the time that Tim was in school, I spent a great deal of time looking into unique options for a potential engagement. Ideas ranged from watches to cuff links, to bands, to an actual diamond, to just words. At the end, I worked with a jewelry designer in designing a unique diamond ring for Tim for our future engagement. This process took six months from start to finish. With the ring completed in late March 2016, I reached out to his parent’s to schedule a weekend together in early April while Tim was preparing for a series of exams with his programs. I arrived at his parents’ home in Arlington Heights, IL with a bottle of champagne and ring in box. His parents had a very strong idea of why I was there as their smiles were cheek to cheek upon walking in. Tim wasn’t aware that I flew to be with his parents for the weekend specifically; I mentioned that I was in the area for work and figured I’d stop by and spend time with them while he focused on his school work.

I asked Tim’s parents for their blessing to have the honor of asking Tim to marry me. His parents were beyond excited and we began celebrating from that point forward until that Sunday, which is when I headed back to New York to see Tim. Tim asked what exactly I was doing with his parents that weekend. I noted we were shopping for his graduation gift. So, upon returning home to New York on Sunday afternoon, Tim demanded that I share with him what I brought back for his graduation gift from his parents. The only thing I brought back was his ring.

Tim insisted on seeing the gift and went through all of my luggage. Fortunately, I had the ring in my pocket. I realized at this time that I was not safe in our home with the engagement ring – and with time, he was going to find it. So, we went for a long walk along the Hudson River. We ended up walking to where we first had cocktails together, Orient Express. We were the first guests of the day as they opened at 5:00pm. We ordered a cocktail and Tim inquired about his graduation gift from his parents. I started to laugh; I had no choice because of what I knew and he didn’t. Also because I was pretty sure that my perfectly planned proposal was about to be replaced by an impromptu proposal. Tim looked at me, grinned and asked what was so funny. I turned to him, took his hand, went into my pocket to pull out “nothing” and ask for his hand in marriage. Tim looked at me and sternly said, “this is not funny. You have repeatedly asked bent down on your knee before and proposed, you have repeatedly asked him in public for my hand, and you’re doing it again.” To which I replied, you’re right. Let me try one more time. So I went back in my pocket to search for the ring (mind you, I couldn’t find it in my pocket the first time as it was stuck in the crevice of the pocket) and presented Tim with a ring and a request for his hand in marriage. Tim was in shock and couldn’t believe it had actually happened. But it did. We toasted over another round of cocktails and made our way back to Perry Street to celebrate.

It wasn’t the proposal that I had spent the past few months planning in advance. However, I wouldn’t have changed it for the world as it brought us full circle from where we first fell love in one another to making our relationship “official” with a proposal.

Photography: Rebecca Yale Photography | Rings: Custom by Anari Jewelry | Belt + Boots: Salvatore Ferragamo | Black Blazer: John Varvatos | Blazer (Cinque Terre): Hugo Boss | Boots (outfit 2): Gucci | Film Processing: Richard Photo Lab | Grey Blazer: Ermeneglildo Zegna | Jackets: Salvatore Ferragamo | Jeans: AG Jeans | Location: Il Borro | Pocket Square: Hermes | Sneaker Boots (outfit 2): Salvatore Ferragamo | Sweater: Ermeneglildo Zegna | Vest: Ermeneglildo Zegna | Watch: Cartier | Watch: Rolex | White Shirts: Thomas Pink

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

Rebecca Yale Photography

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Let me set the scene – a summertime soiree set at a Pennsylvania cricket club with bridesmaids dressed in dusty lavender and a bride who’s an absolute vision in her Rosa Clara gown. Pair that with the floral design of La Petite Fleur and invitations by Chick Invitations and you’ve got a wedding made for our pages. Head to the gallery for more pretty captured by Unique Concepts Studio.

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From La Petite Fleur, Weddings and Events…For their summer wedding at the Philadelphia Cricket Club, Rachel and Logan collaborated with wedding design studio La Petite Fleur (LPF) to create a floral and décor plan that married their chic, garden style with their venue’s regal atmosphere.

The couple thoughtfully considered the emotion and sentiment of each detail as they planned their day— beginning with deciding to blindfold Logan for his ride from the hotel to the Cricket Club, so a true first-look could be captured by the photographer in front of family and friends! Including and honoring their families was so important that they also displayed several generations of family photos throughout the club.

A breathtaking bride, Rachel carried a romantic bouquet of garden blooms, including garden roses, sweet peas, anemones, ranunculus, peonies, spray roses, jasmine vine, and a touch of curly willow— with ivory satin-wrapped stems. And lovely in dusty lavender, the bridesmaids processed through the Cricket Club’s courtyard with bouquets of peach garden roses, scabiosa pods, café au lait dahlias, mauve astilbe, amnesia roses and mini green hydrangea, which were finished with specialty greens and twine-wrapped stems.

Rachel and Logan exchanged vows beneath a birch chuppah, which LPF draped along the top and front with asymmetrical swags of lace and floral garland, which included coral and blush peonies, peach Alejandra roses, sword fern, spray roses, bush ivy, silver dollar eucalyptus and other variegated greens.

And just as personalized hankies (for tears of joy!) greeted well-wishers at the ceremony, a truly special seating chart display welcomed guests as they entered the reception. A carefully-curated collection of vintage plates presented the seating assignments, which had been hand-lettered by Rachel’s grandmother. The plates were perched upon a moss tablescape— complete with cloches and clusters of blooms.

LPF carried the warm, romantic look of Rachel and Logan’s day through the reception with a décor plan that infused the ballroom with an unexpected majesty (a candle-lined entryway staircase), and hints of whimsy (elevated tablescapes) that were balanced by sophisticated touches (lots of gold accents).

As a focal point for the reception décor was the extra-long head table adorned with a lush garland across the front that included spray roses, seeded eucalyptus, feather willow and Queen Anne’s lace. Flanking the garland on the tabletop, were floating candles amidst a ‘hedge’ of birch bark vessels arranged with specialty greens and blooms, including green hydrangea, seeded eucalyptus, garden roses, ranunculus and spray roses.

The look and feel of the reception was significantly impacted by the floor plan, which included a variety of table shapes—dressed in light gold linens— and corresponding, varied tablescape designs. Some long dining tables were designed with elevated floral tablescapes— from which glass orbs filled with tea lights and floating blooms were suspended. Beneath the elevated, lush display was a ‘runner’ of greenery and mercury gold julep cups votives. Other long tables featured a ‘hedge’ of bloom-filled birch bark vessels, brushed gold candle holders, floating candles and mercury votives.

Square tables were also incorporated into the floor plan and were adorned with one of two coordinating tablescape styles. One tablescape featured a gold lantern atop a reclaimed wood pedestal accented with ‘trailing’ blooms, including green hydrangea, roses, spray roses and buplerum. Finishing this presentation was a trio of elements, including a petite gold mercury stand with a coordinating arrangement, and two gold pedestals of varying heights— one topped with a cascading arrangement; the other, a floating candle.

Meanwhile, other squares featured a tall, brushed gold vase with a lush, cascading arrangement of textured blooms including hydrangea, garden roses, ranunculus, spray roses and variegated greenery. A birch bark ‘folder,’ with coordinating foliage, as well as mercury gold julep votives completed the look on the tables.

Photography: Unique Concepts Studio | Floral Design: La Petite Fleur, weddings & events | Wedding Dress: Rosa Clara | Invitations: Chick Invitations | Bride's Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Rings: Ballerina Jewelers | Bridesmaids Dresses: Donna Morgan | Band: Ebe Amsterdam | Groom's Attire: Calvin Klein | Transportation: Elite Coach | Venue: Philadelphia Cricket Club | Bridesmaids' Dress Store: BHLDN | Hair Accessories: BHLDN | Linen Rentals: Total Table

It’s no secret we love a berry colored wedding palette any time of year. So when Jose Villa sent us this insanely gorgeous affair designed by Joanne Lue Events…let’s just say it was hard to keep our cool. Featuring elements of wood and stone, hand-dyed linens, ceramic dinnerware, and sweet personalized notes to each guest, there are so many take-aways to inspire a bespoke celebration of your own.

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From Joanne Lue Events…Meeting a couple like Jess and Matt was a dream – worldly and humble, the two met in business school in Philadelphia and fell in love during their travels around the world and shared a sweet bond over a love of music.

The two live in San Francisco so much of their design inspiration came from Northern California influences – raw and organic elements of wood and stone, hand-dyed linens from Silk and Willow, and ceramic dinnerware from The Ark Rentals, all beautifully shot by Jose Villa.

Their wedding was personal and intimate – Jess and Matt hand wrote individual notes to each of their wedding guests that were tucked into each escort card. As a nod to their love of live music, they named their tables after the many concert venues they had been to together over the years. Guests dined among hanging candlelight, bold jewel toned florals from Cherries Flowers, under an arbor of hundred year old trees. Dinner was a true farm to table feast with tomatoes picked directly from the on-site gardens. And as frequent hosts, Jess and Matt indulged their guests with their favorite foods – cupcakes in lieu of a wedding cake, gourmet bread baskets served with multiple flavors of butter, polenta, and desserts from Jess’s childhood of sesame mochi.

Photography: Jose Villa Photography | Cinematography: Daniel Chae | Event Design: Joanne Lue Events | Event Planning: Joanne Lue Events | Floral Design: Cherries Flowers | Wedding Dress: Leanne Marshall | Cupcakes: Sibby's Cupcakery | Bride's Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Catering: Paula LeDuc Fine Catering & Events | Hair + Makeup: The Glamourist | Lighting: Got Light | DJ: Boutique DJs | Groom's Attire: Canali | Venue: Paula LeDuc Fine Catering & Events | Bride's Accessories: Perfect Details | Furniture Rentals: Classic Party Rentals | Furniture Rentals: Bright Event Rentals | Invitations, Stationery + Calligraphy: Oh My Deer Handmades | Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Silk Accessories: Silk and Willow | Tabletop Rentals: Frances Lane | Tabletop Rentals: The Ark Event Rentals

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Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

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One thing we know for certain? Finding the right diamonds for THE big day is an absolute art form. Especially if you are in search of conflict-free jewels that are as eco-friendly as they are beautiful. So today we’re turning it over to our friends at Ada Diamonds for three tips on rockin’ lab grown diamonds on your wedding day… and beyond. Find out how below.

Start with the Ring

First step? Find that conflict-free engagement ring that will make your heart happy. Think breathtaking, bespoke diamonds that are everything you’ve ever wanted… and so much more. With Ada Diamonds, you can create that dream, absolutely-can’t-stop-staring-at-it ring with a diamond that is chemically and structurally identical to mined diamonds, yet socially and environmentally friendly in ways that mined diamonds aren’t. We love.

Make It Official

It starts with the engagement ring, but Ada Diamonds’ made-to-order wedding bands for men AND women are just as beautiful. I’m talking colorless diamonds, fancy colored diamonds and gorgeous metal options, like platinum, white + rose + yellow gold and black rhodium gold. Ada Diamonds can even duplicate an existing wedding band to make an anniversary band! Ada Diamonds also offers their unique Strong Collection featuring rings made of a polycrystalline diamond material, Polydiamond, that makes every. last. piece in the collection seriously strong and unscratchable. In other words? All of the options are absolutely stunning AND an awesome + vegan friendly way to say “I do” to your special someone.

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Don’t Forget the Other Bling

Your ring finger isn’t the only place that deserves a little diamond love on the Big Day.  With Ada Diamonds’ Delicate Collection, those conflict-free cultured diamonds can make an appearance as necklaces, earrings and bracelets, as well.  Not to mention that they make a perfect gift for your bridesmaids, mother and soon-to-be mother-in-law… whether that’s on wedding day or a special something for the holidays!

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Visit Ada Diamonds today to find that special piece of conflict-free jewelry that you’ve always dreamt of. Your eco-friendly ring? It’s waiting, loves.

DISCOUNT

Don’t forget to use the code STYLEMEPRETTY10 for 10% off any the Delicate and Strong ready-to-wear collection pieces at adadiamonds.com. Looking for a bespoke piece? Mention the coupon code to your Diamond Concierge during the design process to receive 10% off your entire fine jewelry order. Happy shopping!

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Photography: Janine Licare Photography + Russ Levi Photography

They say, “when you know, you know.” But how do you really know you found “the one?” Does he or she make you smile? Does your partner make you a better person? Do you smile when you think about him or her? Can you picture your life together? Everyone’s criteria for their perfect soulmate is different, but these 12 qualities are simply universal.

12 Signs You Found Your Soulmate

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12 Signs You Found Your Soulmate

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More Things You Should Know Before You Get Married

Talk It Out: Conversations You Should Have Before You Get Engaged

5 Things No One Tells You About Getting Engaged

20 Ways You’re Secretly Driving Your Fiancé Crazy

Whether big or small, weddings these days are all about the details and we’ve fallen big time for celebrations that merge minimalism with the modern day soiree. Think monochromatic blooms with a modern twist, or added texture with gorgeous greenery and wildly beautiful bouquets styled to a T. From clean lines to luxe materials, we’ve rounded up how you can get the ‘minimal’ look without sacrificing major style on your big day.

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THE BLOOMS

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THE BRIDE

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The Reception

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The Seating Chart

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The Invitations

Looking for inexpensive yet totally style savvy bits and baubles to stuff those stockings with this holiday? Well then, you are in the right place my friend. Tucked inside are 45 treats that offer up a little something for him, her and them. And maybe the best part, all are under $40. Check out the list we are hoping finds its way into our stuffed stockings this year plus even more in the slideshow below!

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Monogram Trinket Dish | Copper Mug |  Oval Flask | Brass Spoon | City Inspired Candle

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 S’mores Kit | Flask Funnel | Flashlight | Old Fashioned Cocktail Kit | Mini Shaker

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Geo Bottle Stoppers | Floral Phone Case | Coconut Lip Balm | Grapefruit Lip Tint | Aromatherapy Mist

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Fancy Soap | 2017 Blush Agenda | Rose Hibiscus Spray | Rosé Gummy Bears | Hot Chocolate on a Stick

The Ultimate Stocking Stuffers

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The Ultimate Stocking Stuffers

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Find more gift guides right this way…

Kids Gifts that Look like They’re Straight from the North Pole
25 Gifts Under $25
Thoughtful Gifts for Mom + Dad
Gift Ideas for that Person that has Everything

We all have those people in our lives who are just SO tough to holiday shop for (annoying right?). They already seem to have everything they need and one more candle or tea towel just doesn’t feel like it’ll impress at all. Don’t stress, friends, there are plenty of thoughtful options out there for those have-it-alls and we’re rounding up a handful of creative ideas right here!

10 Gift Ideas for the Person that Has Everything

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10 Gift Ideas for the Person that Has Everything

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Find all of our gift guides here!