When you love the great outdoors as much as this adventurous couple, a wedding set amongst the gorgeous redwoods of one of our most beloved national parks seems like the perfect choice. Anne-Claire Brun captures both the intimacy of the occasion and its stunning, grandiose backdrop to perfection. You’ll fall in love with the natural beauty of this wedding here in The Vault!

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From Anne-Claire Brun…I have dreamt about shooting a Yosemite Wedding. I went there for the first time about a year and a half ago and it’s needless to say that I fell in love with the beauty of that part of the world. I knew I’d like it from the photos of Ansel Adams. But I didn’t expect the light to be that extraordinary. Maybe I’d simply forgotten the majesty of mountains because I haven’t gone to the French Alps (where I’m from) in years, but waking up in the morning before sunrise isn’t something I do for just anything, It was freezing and dark. And then the light slowly glided over the tree tops, breathing colors into the valley. In Yosemite, the light is magic.

When Jessica and Brandon wrote me that they planned on having their engagement photos in Big Sur and their wedding in Yosemite, I was a little in love with them. In Big Sur, he proposed to her. In Yosemite, he used to go camping while growing up.

I love when weddings locations have meaning!

So here’s the wedding of Jessica and Brandon. And if after that you don’t have a plane ticket/road trip to Yosemite National Park, I don’t know what you need.

From The Bride…Brandon and I met online! On the website OkCupid. We are both serious nerds, so it only makes sense that the internet would bring us together.

Brandon proposed on the third anniversary of our first date, on the gorgeous Pfeiffer State Beach in Big Sur. It is one of our “places” that we return to time and time again. He took me there after a killer dinner at Big Sur Bakery. It was totally deserted and we were just admiring the stars and the waves and all of a sudden I turn around and he is on one knee! He asked me to marry him, I said “Of course!” and then he got out his flashlight so I could actually see the ring (it was pretty dark!). The ring was perfect; it’s a sapphire, exactly what I wanted–but I would have said yes to a Ring Pop.

We were totally unprepared for the planning process. It wasn’t something either of us had looked into previously, and it is this amazing and overwhelming world. We quickly narrowed down what we cared about (food, photography, a fun time) and didn’t (the usual traditions, long ceremony, dances). We DIYed a lot of stuff, for better or worse! We got a lot of compliments on our playlist, so that one at least was a success.

Our style was really just “things we both like.” It ended up being pretty nature-inspired, which makes sense. We are both into backpacking and hiking, and that’s definitely something we bonded over.

Jessica’s favorite moment of the day – This is so hard! Possibly our actual ceremony, which we both wrote. It was a very honest and moving moment. Even though it was freezing cold (I’m sorry to our guests and vendors!). Totally worth it. Or maybe just seeing all of our people together. It was a really great day.

Brandon’s favorite moment of the day – It’s hard to say. It was just a good day. Probably when Jess and I went off together after the ceremony for a few minutes. It was nice to just go be married together!

Our advice for future brides and grooms: don’t stress too much. Stuff will go wrong but you will not care.

If you are not attached to a particular date, the off-season offers incredible savings.

You can’t please everyone! Your only job is to make sure your guests are fed/hydrated. And that can mean cake and punch.

Consider prioritizing photography, as that is your one physical memento, and it can really catch the tone of the day and capture special moments you may have missed or forgotten. We splurged on our photos and it was so, so worth it.

Enjoy it, being married is amazing!

Photography: Anne-Claire Brun Photography | Floral Design: Bohemian Bouquets | Wedding Dress: Cleo and Clementine | Cake: Majestic Yosemite Hotel | Invitations: The Nesting Project | Jewelry: Swoon Jewelry Studios | Hair + Makeup: Flawless Hair And Makeup | Favors: For Your Party | Groom's Attire: The Black Tux | Officiant: Friend of the couple | Venue: Majestic Yosemite Hotel | Bride’s Shoes: Walkin on Air | Save the Dates: Nifty Printables

Cantaloupe and honeydew melon, I love you, I do. But there’s a new fruit salad in town and I’m convinced she’s the only fruit salad I’ll be making for quite some time. Not only is the pretty factor off the charts, but the ease of effort and addition of mint makes for the most gorgeous fruit frenzy I’ve ever laid eyes on. Captured by Dyan Kethley, get the recipe from wellness coach, Kara Stout below!

Melissa BaranFresh Citrus, Berry and Mint Salad

prep time 5 Minute/s

cook time

total time 5 Minute/s

Serves 0Ingredients

• Oranges
• Clementines
• Grapefruit
• Strawberries
• Raspberries
• Mint

Instructions

1. Peel oranges, clementines and grapefruit and add to large bowl.
2. Add in strawberries and raspberries.
3. Top with fresh mint leaves.

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Photography: Dyan Kethley Photography | Event Planning: Silver Lining Events + Co. | Event Design:Silver Lining Events + Co. | Food and Nutrition: Kara Stout | Floral Design: Blue and Tan Events | Paper Products: Pink Champagne Paper | Calligraphy: Pink Champagne Paper | Furniture and Decor Rentals:Propmaker Event Rentals | Make-up: Rayven Walker | Hair: Wedfully Yours | Plate and Tea Cup Rentals: Pretty Little Plates | Jewelry and Accessories: Accessory Jane | Film Developing and Scanning:Photovision | Location: The Farm by Propmaker in Anna, TX

We’ve said it before, and we’ll probably say it several more times, but Kate Middleton can do no wrong. Case in point, her children’s perfectly British and completely adorable names: George Alexander Louis and Charlotte Elizabeth Diana. Feeling inspired by her posh picks? We’ve got dozens more beautifully British baby names waiting for you below!

British Baby Names

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British Baby Names

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More Baby Names to Obsess Over

Chic French Names | The Best Names for Twins | Unique + Pretty Baby Names

Deciding on a color palette is one of the first steps in designing the wedding of your dreams. And if you’re planning a fall wedding, chances are you’ve seen lots of inspiration in shades of red, orange, yellow and gold. But what if you want something different? Lucky for you, we’ve got six color palettes that are anything but ordinary.

Best Color Palettes for a Fall Wedding

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Best Color Palettes for a Fall Wedding

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More Inspiration for Your Big Day

10 Wedding Trends to Retire | What’s Your Wedding Style? | Secrets Your Planner Wants You to Know

Shoe Walls, and purse shelves and space lots of space… these are the things that closet dreams are made of. Oh and valet rods. Amanda swears by those and if her closet is any indication, she knows what she’s talking about. Tour her fashion cave and get inspired to carve out a little space of your own. Psst…check out the rest of the Fashionable Hostess’s Miami home right here!

I always dreamed of designing my own closet where everything had a place, and I have to say it really came true with this space. I am such a visual person so I prefer for everything to be out in the open – hanging or folded. I find that with drawers I forget about pieces that are tucked away, so I save that space for everyday pieces like workout clothes and pajamas.

 In terms of organization, I am very specific in the way I have everything arranged. Everyday dresses in one section, fancy dresses in another, and maxi/formal in another. Any pieces of a different season live in the back while what’s newest and trending is in the front. Anything neutral, or a “classic” goes in the middle, because you never know when you may just throw on a good oldie.

My shoe wall is too fun I must say – I really wasn’t a shoe person until a few years ago and now I am obsessed. Right now I am really in love with Alexandre Birman, they are just a bit more unique {did you see Giselle wore a pair as she strutted in the Olympics opening ceremony?!}. 

The best addition to my closet by far are the valet rods {btw this is an easy addition to any closet!}! Since I am always rushed in the morning with the kids, I always picket my clothes the night before a big meeting and hang them on the rod! I hang everything from the outfit to the bag to the accessories!

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Enviable Shoe Closets

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Enviable Shoe Closets

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Photography: Simply Lively | Home of: The Fashionable Hostess

Ladies, there’s not denying it. We all (and by all, I mean every. single. one. of us) need this dress pronto. Transforming a traditional engagement session into a beautifully blush beginning, Katlyn Marie PhotoArt captured it all to share. And lucky for you, we just so happen have got every bit of it waiting for you to fall madly in love with via The Vault!

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From Katlyn Marie PhotoArt…Colin and Austen have such a sweet and playful love, which shows up in every single frame of this romantic engagement session. And all of the blush details with a stunning Oregon sunset in the background make it that much more romantic! From Austen’s beautiful blush gown, to the stunning floral arrangement, to the sweet little garden roses adorning her hair, this engagement session was absolutely perfect!

From The Bride-to-be…Colin (a Boston native) and I (raised in ­PDX) met when we were both ski bums in As­pen, CO right after college. We were work­ing at the same resort at the base of Asp­en Mountain. Colin kept visiting me at my­ hostess stand, and finally worked up the­ courage to ask me out. Our first date wa­s a hike in 2012 to a 360 degree view poi­nt of the surrounding mountains. The hike­ turned into a full day adventure of gett­ing to know each other, and wanting to kn­ow more.

We spent the next year in Aspen together,­ then both left to figure out “the real w­orld.” I went to SF for a year while he w­as home in New England. After experiencin­g the stress and anxiety of a long distan­ce relationship, I moved to him, and a ye­ar later we moved to Portland to be near ­my family and put down roots. For our ann­iversary this past year, I booked 2 night­s at a B&B in Hood River to celebrate 3 y­ears together. We spent the day visiting ­vineyards, cider houses, and orchards. Wh­ile we were picking apples in the rain at­ Draper Girls Orchard, Colin directed me ­towards “a good bunch of apples” (that ne­ver existed) and I ended up finding a rin­g box on a branch! I turned around to fin­d him down on one knee with the only 4 wo­rds he could find. In my state of complet­e shock, I said yes!

We plan to return to Hood River to celebr­ate our wedding with our friends and fami­ly from all over the country. It will be ­at Gorge Crest Vineyards on the WA side o­f the Gorge in July 2017. We are excited ­for a casual backyard feel with live musi­c, craft beer, local wine, and lawn games­. Oh, and a superb view of Mt. Hood.

Photography: Katlyn Marie Photoart | Floral Design: Swoon Floral Design | Dress: ASOS | Invitations: Kelsey Malie Calligraphy | Hair + Makeup: Portland Makeup And Hair | Film Processing: PhotoVision Prints | Location: Willamette State Mission Park

Seaside weddings make my heart happy.  And a seaside wedding at Morada Bay?  Well, that’s an entirely new level of joy.  Think a breathtaking bayside setting, a talented team of wedding experts and a never-ending lineup of fabulous resources that will turn that dream day into an absolute reality.  We are sooo on board.

From their stunning locale in the heart of Islamorada to their staff that knows everything there is to know about throwing a fabulous party, Morada Bay’s fabulous accommodations and sparkling beaches were simply made for marrying.  Which means that whether you’re planning a small, intimate affair with just your nearest and dearest or a grander event with 200 special someones, Morada Bay has JUST what you are looking for… and all overlooking those pristine beaches and glistening waters the Florida Keys are known for.

Contact Morada Bay TODAY to begin planning your unforgettable wedding.  We CAN’T WAIT to see the results.

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Photography (Top to Botton): Maxime Photo & Video (Photos 1,3,6) + Pierre’s (Photo 2) + Jannette De Llanos Photography (Photo 4)

Do you have a favorite meal of the day? Mine just so happens to be brunch. Early enough for breakfast foods to still be acceptable and late enough for a cocktail and sweets to make an appearance. But did you know that said brunch treats can actually be healthy too? Thanks to Kara Stout, Dyan Kethley and the team behind all this brunch gorgeousness, we’ve got the prettiest (and healthiest!) recipes for donut, quiche and pancake lovers alike!

For the Donut Lovers…

Raspberry Lemon Mini Donuts (dairy-free, gluten-free)

(Makes 12 mini donuts)

1 cup coconut flour
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
1/8 tsp sea salt
¾ cup coconut sugar
2 tbsp ground flaxseed
½ tsp vanilla
4 organic eggs
¾ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
½ cup coconut oil
1 ½ lemons
1 heaping cup fresh raspberries

1. Add coconut flour, baking soda, baking powder, flaxseed, sea salt and coconut sugar in a
large bowl and mix well.
2. Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl and then add to the dry mix.
3. Add almond milk, vanilla and coconut oil. Note: make sure the coconut oil is in liquid
form. If solid, melt it over the stove in a pan and then measure it to be ½ cup.
4. Juice the lemons and mix in.
5. Blend raspberries in blender. Add blended raspberries to the dough and mix well.
6. Grease mini donut pan with coconut oil.
7. Spoon the dough into each donut mold.
8. Bake on 350 for 20-25 minutes. Make sure to check at 20 minutes.

Raspberry Coconut Glaze

½ cup coconut sugar
1 cup fresh raspberries
1 tbsp coconut oil (again in liquid form)
Juice of ½ lemon

1. Blend raspberries in blender.
2. Add blended raspberries, coconut sugar, coconut oil, and lemon juice to mixing bowl.
3. Mix well with hand mixer.
4. Place in freezer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Brush glaze onto each donut, covering well and serve!

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For the Quiche Lovers…

Mini Quiche made with Farm Fresh Eggs and Seasonal Vegetables

(Makes 4 mini quiches)

2 farm fresh, organic eggs
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/3 cup goat cheese
8 asparagus tips
4 sliced grape tomatoes
3 chopped fresh basil leaves
4 chopped chives
2 tbsp almond meal
½ heaping tbsp Provence spice from Glory Kitchen
¼ tsp sea salt
1/8 tsp pepper
Wholly Wholesome gluten-free 9” pie shell

1. Defrost frozen crust on countertop until thawed.
2. Remove dough from pan and roll out with rolling pin.
3. Grease each mini quiche tart pan with coconut oil.
4. Divide dough into four pieces and press evenly into mini pans.
5. Poke fork holes into crust and bake for 8 minutes on 375.
6. Whisk eggs in large mixing bowl.
7. Stir in the almond milk, goat cheese, almond meal, Provence spice, sea salt, and pepper
and mix well.
8. Add in the asparagus tips, tomatoes, basil and chives and gently stir.
9. Pour quiche mixture into each crust-filled mini quiche pan.
10. Bake on 375 for 25-28 minutes. Keep a close eye on your quiche and make sure to check
after 20 min.

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For the Pancake Lovers…

Gluten-Free Pancake Cake with a Key Lime, Orange, and Maple Syrup Frosting

(4-Ingredient Pancakes, dairy-free, gluten-free, grain-free, makes 18 pancakes)

3 bananas
6 organic eggs
3 tsp vanilla
3 tsp cinnamon

1. Blend banana, eggs, vanilla and cinnamon in blender until creamy pancake mix.
2. Grease pan with coconut oil.
3. On medium heat, make your largest pancakes first for the bottom tier.
4. Next, make your medium-sized pancakes for the middle tier.
5. Lastly, make your small-sized pancakes for the top tier.

Key Lime, Orange & Maple Syrup Frosting

2 cups unsweetened organic Greek yogurt
1 orange
3 key limes
2 tbsp pure maple syrup

1. Add Greek yogurt to a medium-sized mixing bowl.
2. Juice orange to make ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice and add to yogurt.
3. Juice your key limes and add to yogurt.
4. Mix in the maple syrup.
5. Whisk well to thicken it a bit.
6. Chill at least 4 hours or overnight in fridge.
7. Next comes the fun part, frosting your cake! Starting with the bottom tier, frost the top of
each pancake and continue stacking and frosting until each pancake is covered with the
frosting up to the top tier.

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Photography: Dyan Kethley Photography | Event Planning: Silver Lining Events + Co. | Event Design:Silver Lining Events + Co. | Food and Nutrition: Kara Stout | Floral Design: Blue and Tan Events | Paper Products: Pink Champagne Paper | Calligraphy: Pink Champagne Paper | Furniture and Decor Rentals:Propmaker Event Rentals | Make-up: Rayven Walker | Hair: Wedfully Yours | Plate and Tea Cup Rentals: Pretty Little Plates | Jewelry and Accessories: Accessory Jane | Film Developing and Scanning:Photovision | Location: The Farm by Propmaker in Anna, TX

Any wedding that involves couture gowns, luxury cars and a dreamy garden estate and is total YES in my book. Luckily this bride and groom felt the same and hired Rhythm Photography to tell the story of their day. Go see our favorite moments tucked inside The Vault!

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From Phoebe Lo Events…A dreamy celebration of romantic luxury and impeccable elegance, Lisa and Kelvin’s Graydon Hall Manor wedding featured an estate garden Ceremony paired with a terrace cocktail reception and followed by a formal a manor evening faire.

Couture attire and gowns were abundant, and a collection of high end vehicles were also present for the couple and bridal party’s transportation of the day. Our event design made use of a rustic charm motif that mimicked the manor venue’s existing design features in the areas of color hues, structure and pattern to further embellish the event space and environment. A variety of artistic and handmade elements also defined the couple’s love for hand crafted pieces and artful keepsakes that are unique to their celebration. This could be seen by the head piece and jewelry, as well as the fine art painted backdrop in the late night reception area.

Taking place on the eve of Mid-Autumn Festival, the couple welcomed a range of Chinese and Vietnamese traditions that represented their cultural backgrounds.

Photography: Rhythm Photography | Cinematography: Givin Design | Event Planning + Design: Phoebe Lo Events | Wedding Dress: Watters | Wedding Dress: Mori Lee | Cake: Jacq Baked Goods | Invitations: Empress Paper Crafts | Bride's Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Jewelry: Cartier | Bridesmaids' Dresses: BCBGMAXAZRIA | Catering: Couture Cuisine | Hair + Makeup: A Glow By Joan | DJ: Maximum Music DJ Service | Groom's Attire: Canali | Officiant: John McKibbon | Venue: Graydon Hall Manor | Bridesmaids' Gifts: Tiffany & Co. | Cake Topper: Pulp Function | Floral Design, Decor + Lanterns: Secrets Floral Collection | Hair Accessories: The Loved One | Photo Booth: Photo Booth Heroes | Reception Backdrop: Phoebe Lo Events

Navy is the new black, folks, and this gorgeous day captured by Laura Ann Miller is proving that fact whole-heartedly.  From the sweet maids in stunning floor-length frocks to the beautiful details dotting the ceremony + reception to the lush florals from Les Bouquets, every moment is ABSOLUTE perfection. Head to THE VAULT for all of the pretty, our fave shade of blue included.

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From Laura Ann Miller Photography… Katie and Gentry were married at Chandler Hill Winery on the most gorgeous April day in St. Louis. No April showers, just lots of sunshine and love! They planned the perfect day – stylish and fun! This day was inspired by the soft details of spring and the couple’s chic style!

Katie added lace sleeves to her dress, and I’m still swooning over this. She also opted for an oversized bouquet, which was oh so dreamy! The maids wore contemporary navy dresses and the pops of pink throughout the florals complemented well.

When it came time for their special dances, the couple was surprised by a firework show! Can you think of a better surprise for their big night?? This was so much fun!

Overall, the best part of this day was witnessing how truly happy these two are when they are together. This is love, folks!

Photography: Laura Ann Miller Photography | Floral Design: Les Bouquets | Wedding Dress: Allure Bridal | Cake: Sarah's Cake Shop | Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Revolve Clothing | Makeup: Flawless Makeup | Hair: Becky Lutz | Venue: Chandler Hill Vineyards

This botanical garden wedding had me at the favors, but then totally won me over with that reception. With Kelly Dillon Photography behind the lens, it’s once celebration that you’re sure to pin. Complete with wooden cutouts and custom made floral napkins, Capers Catering set the scene for guests to dwell in the dream. See it all for yourself in The Vault!

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From The Bride…As a local tradition, the night before Thanksgiving Eve all of Reading and North Reading alumni would head out to a local bar to meet with old friends and catch up with everyone in town. As I walked into the “Tavern” I noticed this gorgeous man simultaneously walking our way. It was hard to miss him. I remember his eyes were so blue, I couldn’t help but stare. Oddly enough, he knew my best friend who was walking in with me, so we all stopped to chat for a minute. We bump into each other a few other times that night but what really sealed the deal was a simple Facebook friend request later that evening. We chatted for a few weeks as the Christmas seasoned unfolded and finally made plans for our first on December 14th, 2011. The rest was history.

It was just another work day; wake up, shower, walk the dog and I was out the door, or so I thought. Lets fast forward to 4pm…As I sent Matt my typical text, “On my way home, what should we make for dinner”, little did I know he had a bigger plan set in motion. When I arrived home, I was greeted at the door by my doggie who happily wagged her tail and smiled ear to ear. Tucked away in her collar was little note that said, “daddy can’t get any work done in the living room, so I’ve been puppy shunned”. I laughed out loud and thought, “what could she possibly be doing that was distracting him that much?” As I opened the tightly shut pocket doors, there was Matt down on one knee surrounded by flowers, balloons, and over a dozen ring pops. We had this inside joke that when he proposed it would be with the biggest ring he could find, a ring pop lol. So it was only natural that they made an appearance.

Over the last 10 years, Matt has worked as a landscaper for a local greenhouse and garden center. I’m an interior designer by trade, so it was only natural that we found a place that combined my love for gorgeous structures and matt’s love for beautiful gardens. We came across Tower Hill Botanic Garden and instantly knew this was the place we had to have our reception. Spring would be the best season for the soft pale colors and bright greens we wanted to incorporate into our scheme. I loved the blush and mink colored dressed from BHLDN that combined a delicate lace and sheer chiffon which Matt paired with light gray suites and mahogany leather shoes. Our venue gave us the ability to bring in everything from the chairs to the dinnerware, truly a designers dream. Rather than sitting at a sweet heart table, Matt and I wanted to be surrounded by all of our bridal party and their loved ones. We dreamt up this gorgeous 24 ft. long table with an abundance of greens and delicate flowers running down the center. Each guest would receive a wooden name cutout which was placed over top of a custom made floral napkin. Our seats were decorated with flowers and a wood bride and groom sign secured with a blush pink ribbon. We wanted our guests to enjoy an abundance of food, drinks and great company.

Photography: Kelly Dillon Photography | Cinematography: Lightcanvas Films | Floral Design: Rachel O'Neil Event & Design | Wedding Dress: Kleinfeld Bridal | Bride's Shoes: BHLDN | Jewelry: Nordstrom | Catering: Capers Catering | Groomsmen Attire: Men's Wearhouse | Venue: Tower Hill Botanic Garden | Rentals: New England Country Rentals | Signage + Table Numbers + Favor Tags: Antea Amoroso Design

New York City may be the epicenter of the world but I’m pretty sure when you add in an adorable pup, they still take center stage. Case in point: this engagement shoot by Angela Newton Roy. Strolling through Central Park and Madison Square Park with their Zoe, these cuties kissed and cuddled and we get to gaze upon all the sweet results. See it all in our Vault right here!

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From Angela Newton Roy Photography… Madison Square Park is a special place to Julie and Steve. At the beginning of their relationship, when Julie was living in Manhattan and Steve was living outside Philadelphia, he would come visit her in NYC. They would often take walks around Julie’s neighborhood, spending time with Julie’s pup Zoe, leading them to Madison Square Park. This neighborhood became an integral part in their love story, and so they knew right away they wanted to come back here for their engagement session. We spent the afternoon walking Zoe around Madison Square Park, and then headed up to their second favorite location, Central Park, to catch the last of the gorgeous NYC summer light.

Photography: Angela Newton Roy Photography | Makeup: Sephora | Hair: The Dry Bar Salon | Attire: Ann Taylor | Location: Madison Square Park | Location: Central Park

This couple’s source of inspiration? Dreamy oceanside sunsets. “From our wedding invitations, to the bridesmaid dresses, to our wedding cake and to the sunset we got that evening, this love for pastel colors was incorporated throughout our day,” said the Bride. Go see why we’re obsessed with the gallery from Rachel Solomon.

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From The Bride…As two Midwesterners, Jared and I met randomly at a bar in Santa Monica where I was drinking a margarita and he, an old fashioned. Our relationship grew quickly with major hallmarks happening along the California beaches. After getting engaged at Silly Mountain in Arizona, just around the corner from where my parents live in the winters, we discussed our vision for our day. Everything we discussed was rooted in what mattered most to us: that our guests have an incredible time, that we have many personal touches unique to “us,” and that everything fits together cohesively and flows seamlessly. It was important to us that it came across to our guests that this was a ‘celebration of love’ and not just another wedding. My brother, who we asked to get ordained to officiate our wedding, helped to show our guests this by crafting a ceremony so perfect that brought Jared and my love to the forefront to show our guests why we wanted them all there to celebrate with us.

When choosing our venue, we wanted to choose a place that had meaning. Nowhere in the Midwest or California felt more meaningful to us than Superstition Mountain Golf and Country Club did – a place we will be going back to for years since my parents live near there and we have regular family golf outings there. I am also an incredibly superstitious person so it fit perfectly. We wanted an ‘outdoor everything’ wedding with hints of our relationship throughout the day for us to share with our guests. For example, our signature drinks were margaritas and old fashioneds, we did a sand ceremony with sand from California beaches and Arizona locations that symbolized significant moments in our relationship – like the beach we were when we said “I Love You” for the first time. We also charmingly incorporated in the nickname we have for ourselves, “J2” (j-squared), in our day-of paper which was perfect given that we got married on the day of squares – 4/9/16 (22/32/ 42).

I knew I wanted a backless dress but I didn’t want anything that didn’t fit the venue. When I tried on Claire Pettibone’s Alma dress and saw two “J’s” in the lace, I immediately imagined myself in that dress in our venue and knew it was the perfect fit. We chose Jared’s suit to complement the colors throughout the day – a nice blue that would pop in pictures but fit with the overall feel for the day. Having not seen my dress next to his suit before the day, I was so happy with how my dress and his suit came together so perfectly – just like us!

I used our venue as inspiration to bring out the best in the décor, dress, ambiance and energy for the day. After having gone to Italy two years prior, Jared and I loved the Tuscan-style clubhouse and played into this with our décor. Our guests said it was like being at a wedding in Tuscany with a beautiful Arizona backdrop! Our colors were inspired by our love for watching sunsets at the beach. From our wedding invitations, to the bridesmaid dresses, to our wedding cake and to the sunset we got that evening, this love for pastel sunset colors were weaved throughout our day and accented the venue perfectly. One of our favorite foods is bread and olive oil. In fact, one of our favorite parts of going out to eat is enjoying bread before our meal. In an effort to share this favorite thing with our guests while also making our table décor and seating cards both beautiful and functional, we got mini olive oil bottles to complement the demi-baguettes we bought from Costco which were wrapped beautifully by my four aunts the morning of the wedding with dusty blue paper and fresh rosemary cut from my parents’ neighbor’s rosemary hedge. It was quite the DIY group effort!

When our day was over, Jared and I both said to us that we don’t think we will ever go to a more perfect wedding than our own. Just like our love story, our own “celebration of love” will always be our favorite. The energy was unmatched and everything fit together perfectly. It would not have been so perfect had it not been for our family and friends helping us and our amazing team of vendors supporting the design and execution of our day – especially Sam Glascock with Imoni Events who went above and beyond to see my vision through and made it feel so seamless that we could actually enjoy our own wedding; Rachel Solomon, our photographer, whose style and talent fit our vibe and captured our day perfectly; our florist, Blume Events, who translated my vision beautifully into the florals; Dave Strickler, our DJ from Desert House Productions who set the perfect musical tone during the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception; the entire team at Superstition Mountain Golf and Country Club who worked with me to ensure everything went off without a hitch; and our videographer, Dan Nettles, an experienced NFL videographer but novice in the wedding industry who I fortuitously found on Thumbtack and beautifully captured our day.

Photography: Rachel Solomon Photography | Event Planning: Imoni Events | Floral Design: Blume Events | Wedding Dress: Claire Pettibone | Cake: Sugarlips Cakery | Invitations: The Paper Mint Press | Stationery: Vee Creative | Makeup: Sarah Sanmarco | Hair: The Getaway Studio | DJ: Desert House Productions | Groom's Attire: Custom, By Design | Groomsmen Attire: The Black Tux | Venue: Superstition Mountain Golf & Country Club | Bridal Boutique: Posh Bridal Couture | Rentals: Event Rents | Rentals: Prim Rentals | Ring Box: The Mrs Box

We’ve toured Amanda of the Fashionable Hostess‘s home, gone behind the blog and snuck a peek at her office and now we’re getting a full blown tour of her new Miami digs captured by Simply Lively. And if you are a gold lover, you are so in luck. Bright light, modern styling and a signature glimmer of gold make up this pretty space and just wait until you see her closet. We’ve got that coming up next!

Welcome to our new Miami Home {The #MiaChateauFH}! While our Nashville home was dreamy, few of you know that Miami is actually where I grew up (and where the majority of my family lives), so it’s so nice to be home, and even more fun to have had a whole new design project! 

First things first, I am obsessed with the amount of natural light in our new house! It is filled with large windows and glass doors in nearly every room, so it really makes you truly appreciate living in sunny Miami year round.

As for the decor, I was incredibly lucky that nearly every piece from our Nashville house worked seamlessly transitioning into our new one! As for the color story… This time I went with an incredibly neutral palette – Benjamin Moore 971 on the walls and 972 on the trim. 

We have a slightly’ off-white’ tile floors throughout the house, so our walls actually appear much whiter than the colors appear on a swatch (it’s crazy how elements of contrast like your floors and natural light can change the color of a paint!). I then brought in color through the furniture and accessories!

Living Room

Light fixture: Urban Electric | Couches and Chairs: custom in Miami {New Design Furniture} | coffee tables: OROA Miami | Lamps: Aerin | Giraffe Photograph: Greg Lotus | Large shelves: Serena & Lily

Our kitchen is by far the busiest room in the house. With 2 little ones I feel like I spend endless hours in there making breakfast, packing lunches, cooking dinners, preparing cheese plates, so big kitchen lights were essential. 

These stainless steel ones from Restoration Hardware make me feel like I am in a restaurant kitchen!! Then our breakfast nook is actually our favorite spot for family breakfast or casual weeknight dinners. Our kids are finally big enough to sit without a high chair and they feel so grown up to sit with mommy and daddy at the table!

Kitchen

Lights above Island: Restoration Hardware | Bar stools: custom in Miami {New Design Furniture} | Breakfast Table Chairs: Modani | Breakfast table: custom in Miami {New Design Furniture} | Cake Stands: Juliska, Crate & Barrel | Mixers: Le Creuset

Dining Room

Table: J Alexander LA | Chairs: custom in Miami {New Design Furniture} | Buffet: J Alexander LA | Mirror: Checquers Aspen, Co | Light Fixture: Circa Lighting | Sconces: Circa Lighting

My bedroom is such an elegant, meets tranquil, meets cozy, space. The bed from my chic nest is so elegant while the bedding from Boll and Branch could not be cozier (I love that it’s organic!).

Then I love how I have chairs by the window to read or browse emails on the weekend.

Bedroom

Bed: My Chic Nest |Bedding: Boll & Branch | Bedside Tables: Bungalow5 | Bedside Table Lamps: Z Gallerie | Gold Shelf: Kathy Kuo Home | Lamps near window: Restoration Hardware | Blue Suede Chairs: OROA Miami

Our patio is basically our second family room. From days spent swimming in our pool to BBQ dinners (which lately has been every weekend) I love that the couch and chairs are so comfy and cushiony while being outdoor resistant (and let me tell you, that Miami heat is no joke!).
I hope you loved our home tour and stay tuned on FashionableHostess.com where I continue to update pillows, throws, and decorations with each season

Outdoor Patio

Furniture: Frontgate | Light Fixtures: Circa Lighting

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Photography: Simply Lively | Home of: The Fashionable Hostess

Remember the days of patch-adorned backpacks? The more you had, the cooler you were. At least up until freshman year when style wasn’t quite strong on the radar yet. Now, backpacks are as chic as they come and patches are traded for tassels, leather and gold zippers galore. Would you trade your bag for one of these backpack beauties? See the full roundup here!

12 Back to School Backpack Bags for Big Girls

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12 Back to School Backpack Bags for Big Girls

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The perfect running-late faux blow out!

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We’ll be the first admit that this equestrian bride got the ultimate gift from her groom. Want to know what it was? A a beautiful horse named Rayne Dance. From that point on Deidre Lynn Photography captured it all to share. From the first dance, to their first kiss as newlyweds, we’ve got their new beginning waiting for you in The Vault!

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From The Bride…Kyle and I met in 7th grade and since that day, everyone always said we’d end up together. After 14 years of friendship and 4 years of dating, he popped the question among friends and family and I quickly got to wedding planning!

As an avid horseback rider since age 7, I knew that equestrian touches and décor would be incorporated into our wedding celebration. During reception venue tours, my fiancé and I stumbled upon a nearby and intimate country club – the Saint Charles Country Club. We immediately fell in love. The private club is nestled in between the cities of Saint Charles and Wayne – historically known for it’s prominent equestrian ties and the fox hunt. Saint Charles is also home to our beloved Fox River – the river Kyle spent his childhood water skiing on and the river we continue to boat on most of our summer weekends.

The proximity of the country club to the iconic Hotel Baker and beautiful Baker United Methodist Church made for an easy decision when choosing our church and hotel accommodations. Both are situated in historic downtown Saint Charles along the Fox River and made for some beautiful backdrops.

Kyle and I wanted everything to appear very classic so we chose a gold, white and gray palette with the men in black and the girls in white. Floral was important to us and we had arrangements draped over just about everything – chandeliers, our animals, a classic car, etc. Much of our décor was vintage and gold, all tying back to our equestrian theme.

Kyle wedding gift to me was extra special and my ultimate dream – a beautiful horse named Rayne Dance. He was trailered into the country club to make for some enchanting (and very happy!) photos.

Our most special June day turned out to be 88 degrees and sunny. Cocktail hour was enjoyed on the veranda overlooking the picturesque golf course while light flooded the ballroom for dinner and dancing. It was truly such a magical day surrounded by our nearest friends and family who traveled near and far to celebrate with us!

Photography: Deidre Lynn Photography | Cinematography: Daniel D Video | Floral Design: Debi's Designs | Wedding Dress: Enzoani | Cake: The Sugar Path | Invitations: Minted | Ceremony Venue: Baker Memorial United Methodist Church | Reception Venue: St. Charles Country Club | Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Jewelry: Marchesa | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Dessy Collection By Vivian Diamond | Makeup Artist : Joey Claeyssen Makeup Artistry | Calligraphy: Hello Happy Print Co | Hotel: Hotel Baker | Decor: Denise's Adornments | Linen Rentals: Ultrapom

White is a favorite color choice among designers; especially in the upholstered arena. It’s bright, it fits a multitude of styles and really freshens up a room. And I know, white is scary if you’re a red wine drinker or have any sort of offspring, furry or otherwise. But that’s what they make bleach for. So throw caution to the wind and jump on the bandwagon with 25 white sofas that totally steal the show.

White Hot Sofas

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White Hot Sofas

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One of my favorite places in our home to cozy up with a good book is this sweet little comfy chair that sits in the corner of our living room. It’s neighbor is the fireplace and in addition to luring me in for many a read, it also pairs well with a good cup of tea I might add. Want to infuse a cozy reading nook in your home? Find the perfect chair here!

10 Comfy Chairs for the Ultimate Reading Nook

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10 Comfy Chairs for the Ultimate Reading Nook

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This couple’s “how we met” story is straight out of a movie. They (quite literally) bumped into each other at a local bar and the rest is history. Maria Lamb photographed their wedding day set in a mountain meadow the gallery is a rustic bride’s inspiration goldmine.

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From The Bride…11 years ago I took a waitressing job at the local college bar to help pay my way through school. A few weeks in I turned the corner too quickly and ran into the bar-back who was carrying several cases of beer. Behind those cases of beer was the cutest guy with bright blue eyes and a smile that suddenly made me feel a little bit better about the mess I’d made. I was mortified to say the least, but took the opportunity to introduce myself. We became fast friends and eventually started dating. We jointly discovered a passion for travel and set out on numerous trips around the world.

In September 2014 we planned a trip to Turkey and Greece. We had a list of sights to see, places to eat, and little to my knowledge, a place for Brad to propose. A private evening cruise on the Bosphorus Straight in Istanbul, Turkey will hands down always be my favorite adventure. It is where Brad asked me to marry him and I joyfully accepted. We love the outdoors, so we wanted everything about our wedding to reflect that. We found an incredible property just outside of Lake Tahoe, California and set the date for August 22, 2015.

Photography was a top priority, so I started researching shortly after the venue was booked. Maria Lamb’s images spoke to me the moment I saw them and I knew I had to talk to her. It was love at first chat and Maria was quickly booked to capture our wedding day. As you can see from our photos, Maria has an amazing talent for capturing the moments in between and the raw beauty of Mother Nature. I can’t wait to look back at these photos over the years and remember just how young and carefree we were.

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Photography: Maria Lamb | Cinematography: Kristen Bliss | Floral Design: Erin Go Bloom | Wedding Dress: Watters | Cake: Safeway | Bride’s Shoes: Ivanka Trump | Engagement Ring: Padis Gems | Jewelry:Nadri | Rings: Jewelry by Design | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Adrianna Papell | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Vera Wang | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Lela Rose | Bridesmaids’ Dresses:Watters | Catering: Farm to Belly | Makeup: Samantha Moreno | Hair: Alysha Anderson | DJ: Caliber DJ’s | Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse | Officiant: Alison Holeyman | Transportation: Northstar | Venue: Mitchells Meadow | Accommodation: Hampton Inn Amelia Island | Accommodations: Northstar Zephyr Lodge | Alterations: Just My Size | Bride Belt: Haute Bride | Cake Topper: Cake Topper Bliss | Day of Coordination: Forget Me Knot Events | Dessert Truck: Lazy Sundae, Lizette Rios | Event Planning, Design + Styling: Bride | Film Lab: PhotoVision Prints | Mother Of Bride + Mother Of Groom Dresses: Adrianna Papell | Photo Booth: Das Bus | Rentals: Camelot Party Rentals | Signage: Mother of the Bride

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Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

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Petit Bouquet

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It’s no surprise that we SMPers love anything and everything that sparkles, so when our lucky eyes caught sight of Lady Liberty Event’s Portfolio, well, they didn’t stray. From their Cover Pics to their Profile Image that’s #bridalgoals in photo form, we’re loving it all. And it continues as we scroll down to their Collections full of the love stories that have graced SMP’s pages, all planned and designed by Lady Liberty. Our new Portfolios are pretty much where the party’s at…

While there’s no denying Lady Liberty’s Portfolio shines, what we really love is that it represents THEM. It shows off their talent, their style, their approach. By customizing their Portfolio with little easy-to-do edits, Lady Liberty Event’s page tells potential clients – brides-to-be just like you! – what they stand for so you can decide it they are the wedding planner for you (our guess is yes, they are).

MORE LADY LIBERTY LOVE RIGHT THIS WAY!

Perfectly Lovely Photo Shoot | Gene Simmons’ Stunning Vow Renewal | Beautiful Boho Glam Bride