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10 Hammocks To Lounge In All Summer Long (Cocktail In Hand!)

With Memorial Day weekend on the horizon, I’m fully ready to kick back and turn on summer mode. It’s off-duty time folks and that means there’s just one item on the to-do list: lounging (and maybe a bit of cocktail indulging). And where better to unwind than a serene hammock swaying in the breeze? Take your pick!

10 Hammocks To Lounge In All Summer Long (Cocktail In Hand!)
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10 Hammocks To Lounge In All Summer Long (Cocktail In Hand!)
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10 One-Piece Swimsuits Sexier than a Bikini
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A Wedding That Nailed the “Desert Chic” Look

You know what I love about this couple? They broke all the rules and had what I’m deeming the Coolest. Wedding. Ever. They let the Scottsdale desert play backdrop to an untraditional “I do” complete with color, whimsy, and of course, a killer taco truck. Let you hair down and head straight to the gallery from Paul Von Rieter.

From The Bride…Since the moment we got engaged (full disclosure since before we got engaged), I knew I wanted a desert wedding. I was raised in Scottsdale and we take many trips to Palm Springs so it was the perfect theme. I planned the wedding myself with the help of my mom and 2 sisters. The most important thing to us was that we threw a fun party where everyone could let their hair down and have a good time! I used the same mentality with most of the planning. I told my bridesmaids to pick out whatever dress they wanted as long as it was navy and lace. Since everyone in my party is so different and two of them are new moms I wanted each of them to feel beautiful walking down the aisle and you can’t do that with a cookie-cutter bridesmaids dress. None of them chose a traditional dress and I loved it!

We did almost everything ourselves from making mason jar candles to my dad building a dance floor out of reclaimed wood. We planted cacti in tins 6 months before the wedding so the flowers would bloom in time for the reception. I created the sangria recipes from scratch, our friends were tasked with taste testing whenever they came over! We used traditional serape blankets for our guests to sit on at the ceremony site as well as made our programs into fans so they could stay cool in the Arizona sun! I walked down the aisle to an acoustic version of “Today” by The Smashing Pumpkins and my dad officiated. We dedicated the sweets table to my Grandmother who passed two weeks before the wedding, which was my favorite detail from the day. We decided on a taco truck and a great salsa bar so our guests could eat dinner whenever they wanted- it paired so perfectly with the kind of reception we wanted to have- a big party! Our cake was a wedding gift from my mom’s best friend!

We decided against most of the traditional reception activities. We didn’t do a bouquet or garter toss (in fact, I didn’t even wear one). Instead of doing the chicken dance and Y.M.C.A we chose a really fun mix of current and retro dance songs. My mom tells me that still 6 months later her friends are talking about what a fun party we threw! Mission accomplished.

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Photography: Paul Von Rieter | Floral Design: Hoot And Holler | Floral Design: Bethanne Outcalt | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Cake: Bethanne Outcalt | Ceremony Venue: Desert Botanical Garden | Reception Venue: At Home | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Nordstroms | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: J.Crew | Hair:Ashley Lynn Dienst | Groom’s Attire: Top Man | Groomsmen Attire: Top Man | Photography – Assistance:Carmen Santorelli Photography | Programs: Rebekah Disch Design | Signage + Favors: Revelry Social

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
Skip French 101 with These 30 Must-Know French Words

Planning a trip to France? Maybe just day-dreaming that you are? Or perhaps you’re a francophile looking to infuse your summer with a bit of your favorite romance language. Whatever the case, add this list to your budding vocabulary and say bonjour to summer with 30 oh so French words. While you’re at it, learn how to dress like a French girl too.

Excuse our French
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Excuse our French
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Also French Girl Approved

How a Horse Farm Was Transformed Into A Dreamy Elegant Wedding

This is not your average farm wedding. No, this farm wedding from Simple Elegance goes above and beyond with tent construction on the Bride’s family horse farm, a magician, a cigar roller, bourbon tasting, a photo booth, fireworks, and a collection of Ford trucks from the Groom’s family business. Accented with beautiful florals from Sidelines, it was the perfect spring day. See it all from Adrienne Maples and Anecdotally Yours in The Vault!

Colors
Styles
Rustic

From The Bride…How do you meet the love of your life? Fate calls your name and you change a standing happy hour date with a friend at The Gaf from Tuesday to Wednesday night. That’s how Lindsey Patterson, owner of Coffee Girls Café in Waldo, met Matt Smith. He was there for his weekly Wednesday after-work drink with a former work colleague, Bob. As Smith and Bob were leaving, Bob spotted the two pretty girls sitting outside and coaxed Smith into buying them a drink. An official first date between Patterson and Smith came a month later after a few more “get to know you” happy hours at The Gaf.

Exactly one year later, after a first anniversary dinner at Pierpont’s at Union Station, a wedding proposal came on bended knee. The groom arranged for all the beautiful moments of the proposal to be captured covertly by a photographer friend of Smith, disguised with a moustache, so the unsuspecting bride would be surprised. That important picture became the “Save the Date” card, and the planning for the May 2014 wedding began.

Patterson, having traded a corporate life of black pants and a cubicle three-and-a-half years ago for a coffee shop, knew they both wanted a fun, comfortable and stress-free wedding, reception and after party. Their first phone call was to Michael Beers to secure his band for the reception. Kindra Browne of Simple Elegance and Karyn Brooke AIFD from Sidelines Custom Floral Designs were enlisted to coordinate the wedding details, which included tent construction at the Patterson family horse farm, a magician, a cigar roller, bourbon tasting, a photo booth, fireworks and a collection of Ford trucks from the groom’s family business, Dick Smith Ford, for the men in his party to use on the farm the day of the wedding. After a relaxing day at the farm, complete with hair and makeup for the girls and skeet shooting at Saddle & Sirloin Club for the guys, the wedding party arrived by trolley from the farm to St. Thomas More Catholic Church. The well-orchestrated wedding also included a reception, cocktail hour, dinner and after party.

Patterson had one request for her May wedding: trees. Sidelines Custom Floral Designs worked with Rosehill Gardens to fill the inside and outside of the reception tent with blooming dogwood trees in pink and white. In addition, the bride’s grandfather crafted two 10-foot-long wedding party tables out of walnut, and one of them found a final home after the wedding at Coffee Girls Café. The two tables were filled with hedges blooming with blue hyacinths, one of Patterson’s favorite flowers. In another nod to her family, the bride gifted all her guests with her grandmother’s famous “Cowboy Cookies.”

Patterson’s father kept a watchful eye on the skyline and right at sunset, the newlywed couple were captured in its rosy glow, a picture-perfect end to their pastoral wedding. However, that was not the end of the celebrations. The elegant evening concluded with after-party dancing to the music of Michael Beers Band, late-night snacks and festive fireworks illuminating the country night sky.

Photography: Adrienne Maples | Cinematography: Anecdotally Yours | Event Planning: Simple Elegance, LLC | Floral Design: Sidelines Custom Floral Designs, Inc. | Cake: Nancy Stark | Ceremony Venue: St. Thomas More | Reception Venue: Family Farm | Catering: Lon's Lanes Inspired Occasions | Hair + Makeup: Be Chic Bride | Band: Michael Beers Band | Ceremony Music: Diane Shilling+ Susie Adams+ Megan Molle+ Phil Holmes | Transportation: Crossroad Tours | Transportation: Kansas City Transportation Service | Beverage Services: Loch Lloyd | Chandeliers + Lighting: Landers Visions | Fireworks: Wald & Co | Invitations + Stationery: Lilah Paper | Magician: Todd Lamanske | Photo Booth: KC Photobooth | Rentals: All Season's Event Rental | Valet: Park it Valet

Rich Berry Shades Make This Wedding Palette Pop

The recipe for an amazing wedding? Beautiful photography. Thanks, Rebecca Yale. Drool-worthy florals. Laura Miller Design, you totally delivered. And of course, a happy couple who is madly in love. Check, check, check. Head to The Vault for all of the above, plus a berry-infused color palette you’ll probably want to steal.

From Rebecca Yale… Michelle and Tianyu were married in an intimate celebration surrounded by their friends and family at Kohl Mansion in San Francisco. The bride and groom met in Los Angeles while she was at school at UCLA and he was her T.A. 

They made the wedding incredibly personal by writing their own vows and by incorporating fun facts into their table numbers with information about the two of them as a couple like the number of days since they met (914) and number of cats adopted together (2). The bride mixed berry tones in her bouquet and decor throughout the day and gifted each guest as a party favor a beautiful red Chinese box with delicious Ferrero Rocher inside of them.

The groom surprised the bride with a choreographed dance number with his groomsmen, which he choreographed himself by watching youtube videos and combining them together to make a very special dance just for her.

Photography: Rebecca Yale Photography | Floral Design: Laura Miller Design | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Cake: Carolyn Wong | Catering: Continental Caterers | Hair + Makeup: Melisa Hall | Groom's Attire: Hugo Boss | Venue: Kohl Mansion

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
You Shouldn’t Get Married Until You’ve Had These 9 Conversations

You know they’re ‘the one’, but have you had ‘the talk’? Not just any talk though, we’re talking about the 9 important conversations you should absolutely have before you get married. From finances to family, we’ve rounded up the most important topics to cover with your spouse before you say ‘I do’ below!

Talk it out: Conversations You Should Have Before You Get Engaged
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Talk it out: Conversations You Should Have Before You Get Engaged
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Planning your e-sesh? Don’t miss these must see tips below!

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More Engagement Tips Below!

10 Emotions All Newly Engaged Girls Will Feel | 5 Things No One Tells You About Getting Engaged | Conversations You Should Have Before You Get Engaged | Top Tips for Choosing Your Vendors

How To Get Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s Super Model Blow Out

Is there anything better than walking out of the salon with a fresh blow out? Bouncy, smooth strands that make you feel like a Victoria’s Secret model? It’s a tough feeling to beat. But it’s not something we can all afford (or have the time to do!) on a regular basis. Thankfully bombshell babe Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and her hairstylist gave us a little behind the scenes peek at how the magic happens.

Blowouts & Beyoncé!! Head to my snapchat for full tutorial of my fave hairdo with hairstylist @georgenorthwood. (

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Building the Perfect Home Together with Macy’s Registry

Whether you’re moving in together for the very first time or simply adding to the abode you already share, building that newlywed home together is a total must. With a never-ending list of fabulous products, benefits and expert advice, Macy’s Registry will help turn your house into a home. And we’re getting the shopping started with our favorite items for every space in your home!

Kitchen: 1. KitchenAid KP26M1X Professional 600 6 Qt. Stand Mixer 2. Lenox Dinnerware, Tin Can Alley Collection 3. kate spade new york Two of a Kind His & Hers Stemless Wine Glasses, Set of 2 4. Smeg TSF01 2-Slice Toaster 5. Calphalon 7-Piece Mixed Kitchen Utensil Set 6. OXO Non-Skid Mixing Bowls, Set of 3 White Stainless Steel 7. kate spade new york All in Good Taste Dinner Stripe Kitchen Towel 8. Vitamix Professional Series 750 Blender

Stocking your kitchen with those everyday essentials is sooo important.  From that Vitamix for your morning smoothies to that seriously cute toaster for those on-the-go breakfasts to the KitchenAid Mixer that is perfect for mixing up your special “Nana Bread.” Still have some must-have items sitting pretty on your registry?  No worries.  With Macy’s Newlywed Discount, you’ll have SIX MONTHS to receive 20% off most remaining items, including 10% off furniture, mattresses and rugs. You’ll even get exclusive gifts from your fave brands when you complete your registry.  It’s awesome.

Bedroom: 1. Hillsboro Full Tufted Notch Nail Button Bed 2. Calvin Klein Embroidered Flora 18″ Square Decorative Pillow 3. Decorator’s Lighting Berkeley Ceramic Table Lamp 4. Home Design Studio Aura Wood Pillar Candle Holder 5. Lauren Ralph Lauren Cable Knit Throw 6. Graham & Brown La Vie Est Belle Metallic Framed Print 7. Lauren Ralph Lauren 400 Thread Count Glen Plaid Dobby Down Pillows 8. Homedics SS-2000 Deep Sleep Sound Spa

He’s happy to throw that old college throw on the bed and call it good, but you?  You have other ideas… and Macy’s Registry is here to help.  I’m talking everything from gorgeous bed frames (hello, tufted beauties) to ultra-cozy blankets to chic bedside table lamps that are perfect for your evening reading, because, well… you can’t go to sleep without a good book.  Worried you’ll forget an essential item?  Don’t be.  The Registry Guide is here to give you all sorts of advice on what you’ll need to really pull your look together.  It’s a super stylish home in an instant, and we love that.

Bathroom: 1. Ralph Lauren Palmer Bath Towel Collection 2. Lamont Laundry Hamper, Makatea Upright Round 3. Honey-Can-Do Bamboo Spa Bench 4. Hotel Collection Glass Jar Collection 5. Conair 7x Lighted Makeup Mirror 6. Nourison Cotton Chindi Accent Rug 7. simplehuman Adjustable Shower Caddy 8. simplehuman Trash Can, Mini Semi-Round Step Can, 6 Liter

Your dream?  Your very own personal spa… a little place where you can kick back in a bubble bath in complete and total luxury.  Lucky for you, Macy’s Registry has a selection of ah-mazing (+ seriously relaxing) products that will have you slipping on that white robe + lighting a candle in a space that is as gorgeous as you dreamed.  Think everything from plush towels to the perfect rug to that sweet bamboo spa bench, all coming together to create your ideal sanctuary.  Not to mention that you can totally rest easy, because your Macy’s Registry Checklist guaranteed you had everything you’ll ever need, right down to that adjustable shower caddy.

Living: 1. Dylan Fabric Accent Chair 2. Adesso Director Floor Lamp 3. Capel Tangier 4740-600 Diamond Area Rug 4. Mikasa Serenity Gifts Collection 5. Hotel Collection Linen Poppy Decorative Pillow Collection 6. Home Design Studio Single Wick Candle 7. kate spade new york Sullivan Street Gold 5″x7″ Frame 8. iRobot Scooba Floor Scrubbing Robot

You and yours LIVE to entertain… and throwing the ultimate newlywed parties? It’s so your thing. So it’s a no brainer that you must have your living space looking as posh as possible.  From those perfect accent chairs to beautiful vases (hello, fresh cut flowers) to uber-chic frames that will showcase those new wedding pics. Not to mention that with Macy’s Registry Star Rewards, you’ll receive 10% back on all eligible purchases, so those extra special somethings you’ve been eyeing are totally within reach.  It’s just one of the MANY amazing bonuses of a Macy’s Registry.

Visit Macy’s Registry TODAY to get inspired and learn even more about their lovely products, fabulous perks and benefits.  Your journey from house to home is just beginning, my friends.

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The Organic, Farm-to-Table Wedding Inspo Of Your Dreams

I’m more than obsessed with this inspiration. For starters, that hair?!? Major goals. Even more-so? And those in-season blooms from The Blooming Bud? Unforgettable. Thanks to the seriously talented Savan Photography we’ve got it all waiting to peruse in The Vault!

From Savan PhotographyI wanted to design something organic, something fresh with pastel colors, lush greens, and blooming buds, all of which represents the new beginning of Spring and sweet love. Our location and setting was perfect, a community garden in San Juan Capistrano filled with planter boxes overflowing with herbs and tender vegetables sprouts and a even a small green house.

Our goal is to always be creative and to make sure that it’s always cohesive. It’s to tell the whole complete story to the smallest of details. It was very important to me that we highlight not only the unique space, but to bring the elements of the “farm to table” concept to light. So we chose to use many of the plants, herbs, flowers and fruits throughout our styling from table settings to the bouquet.

I wanted our tablescape to be simple with in-season flowers like lilacs, pink home grown roses, lemon leaves and deep purple artichoke for that pop of color. Going with the timeless, fresh, and organic feel we used blush ceramic plates and white goblets to round out our table setting. For that modern touch and to bring it all together, we brought in metal chairs.

The green door of the greenhouse is what took this shoot from pretty to epic and super unique. That design and color of the door made these images come alive and stand out. My vision was not only the love between them, but I wanted a touch of fine art feel as well.

The cakes from Elise Cakes were absolutely stunning. She made “his, hers and ours” cakes. She made the first one smooth and simple, the second one included pretty ruffles with light shades of pastel greens to resemble watercolor and the third a three tier cake was the “ours” cake representing unity. And of course the two of three cakes where adorn with hand picked herbs and cherry blossoms. Too top it all she used vintage large pedestal candle holders as the cakes stand!

My ultimate goal for this wedding inspiration was to have it a flow like a real wedding should, which includes a cheese board as appetizers, followed by the couple at the table, sneaking out to take some more portraits during the golden hour, followed by cake and then last, but not least her new husband hangs love notes for her among the amazing smells of thyme, rosemary and sage upside down bouquets which were also all picked from the garden.

Photography: Savan Photography | Floral Design: The Blooming Bud | Wedding Dress: Adina's Bridal | Cake: Elise Cakes | Invitations: Ciara Rose Creative | Ring: Trumpet & Horn | Hair + Makeup: Stacey Alyson Makeup | Groom's Attire: Friar Tux | Venue: San Juan Capistrano | Bride Model: Maddy Heyser | China/Tableware: Cherished Rentals | Event Planning + Coordination: Just A Kiss Weddings And Events | Film Processing: The Find Lab | Groom Model: Hunter Cannon | Rentals: Marnie Schnabel - Sweet Salvage Rentals | Ribbon: Silk and Willow

You’d Be Crazy Not to Crush on This Yellow Diamond Engagement Ring

This gorgeous yellow diamond engagement ring? It inspired a wedding as beautiful and dazzling as itself, but we would expect nothing less from a professional NFL football player and his cheerleader bride. With a diamond and yellow gold halo surrounding one stunning radiant cut yellow diamond, this ring proves that all that glitters is definitely gold!

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Get the Look

Mark Broumand | Tiffany & Co. | Harry Winston

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More Colorful Rings to Covet

Colored Engagement Rings
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Colored Engagement Rings
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14 Off-the-Shoulder Pieces That’ll Add ‘Sexy’ to Your Summer Wardrobe

The one style trend I’ve spent at least 30% of my summer clothing budget on so far this year? Off-the-shoulder pieces. From dresses to tops to rompers, I’m all for flaunting golden, sun-kissed shoulders on date night with my love or out for a beach day. Really, off-the-shoulder styles are just so timeless though. All the more reason to splurge! See some favorite picks for summer 2016 below.

14 Off-the-Shoulder Pieces That'll Add 'Sexy' to Your Summer Wardrobe
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14 Off-the-Shoulder Pieces That'll Add 'Sexy' to Your Summer Wardrobe
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More Fashion + Beauty Inspiration this way…

A Cool Girl Hairstyle that will take you from Beach Day to BBQ
What to Wear to a Dinner Party: 10 Gorgeous Outfit Ideas
How To Transform Your Hair with Just 6 Bobby Pins

This Baby Shower Puts The Cutest Twist on the Phrase “Bun In The Oven”

We are all for showers. They usually come bearing sweets and day drinking; the recipe for a weekend well spent. August In Bloom and DeLight Floral + Design have that recipe down to a pastel science. One that includes adorable bun in the oven details. We’re talking cinnamon buns, hot cross bun macarons, even a bun pinata. But what we really can’t get past is the gourmet burgers on pastel waffle buns. Whhhaaaattt? Sign us up. See the full spread captured by Simply Lace Photography right here.

Sara Sull and Mallory Cheung of August In Bloom were over the moon to celebrate one of their own in style. Sara’s sister, Shannon Siu, has a baby on the way and we wanted to throw her an unforgettable shower to welcome a new addition to the family while still keeping it the intimate gathering she was hoping for.

We dreamt up a bun in the oven themed party for our special mommy-to-be and of course the perfect venue was the cutest bakeshop in town! Pretty pastel invitations were sent to Shannon’s closest family and friends who were instructed to knock on a bright pink door that could not be missed.

Darling artisanal items such as a hand-illustrated welcome sign and our special guest, the baby bun piñata, greeted guests upon arrival. Lush blooms of Shannon’s favorite flowers filled the tablescape and guests dined on vintage mismatched china in front of a whimsical botanical wall.

The menu featured gourmet hand pressed mini burgers with pink and lavender waffle buns. Macarons disguised as hot cross buns, a sweet berry cake, cupcakes and cinnamon buns filled the sweet table. Cotton candy treats were gifted to all the guests as a thank you favor to take home.

Shannon described the party as charming, fresh and sweet with delicate details. We were so honored to have the opportunity to shower this new mom with gifts, love and well wishes for the baby!

Photography : Simply Lace Photography | Event Planning & Design: August In Bloom | Florals: Delight Floral Design | Stationery: Maison Maquette | Venue: Sweet Philosophy | Baker: Sweet Philosophy | Burgers: Burger Pawty | Chairs: Luxe Rentals | Cotton Candy: FancyPufs | Partyware: Confetti & Bows | Piñata : Big Ass Piñata | Signage: Love Lettering | Tables: Splash Of Charm | Tableware: The Perfect Table

A Spring Wedding Every Floral Lover Will Adore

I think I died and went to flower heaven, because the posies by Lizy’s Lilies in this wedding have me floating on a pretty pink cloud. From the beautiful Bride’s bouquet of ranunculus, garden roses, dahlias and spirea to the 15-foot flower wall, this day from Rachael Ellen Events is a spring wedding dream. See every gorgeous detail courtesy of J. Taylor Photography  and Nathan Pickett Films in The Vault!

Colors
Settings
Museum
Styles
Modern

From Rachael Ellen EventsWhen I say that Lauren was the sweetest bride I have ever met I am not joking. Working with her and her mother to plan this event was a dream and I was so happy with the way it turned out. It was so fun to bring to life her girly side through this art gallery reception complete with a 15-foot flower wall by Lizy Bowden and fun details by Lavender + Pine. This wedding was everything that a spring wedding should be– bright, feminine, and fun! The couples wedding was on one of the rainiest days of spring– a good luck charm! The guests enjoyed the spring shower whilst inside a stunning contemporary art gallery, eating gourmet pizza and lemonades. They then danced the night away in the art gallery that we transformed into a garden wonderland. The tables were set with bright linens to match the brides bubbly personality along with romantic garden inspired florals and graphic gold details.

Photography: J. Taylor Photography | Cinematography: Nathan Pickett | Event Planning + Design: Rachael Ellen Events | Floral Design: Lizy's Lilies | Catering: Fiore Pizza | Calligraphy: Lavender + Pine | Venue: 15th Street Gallery

This E-Sesh is the Ultimate Spring Fling

The ultimate spring accessory? Magnolia trees. Oh, and this engagement session. Because what took place on quite possibly the most gorgeous spring ever, Matt and Allison strolled a historic park originally built for the 1904 World’s Fair. Surrounded by classic architecture and rolling hills, we’ve got a dreamy grove of flowering romance captured by Mike Cassimatis Photography waiting for you in The Vault

From Mike Cassimatis PhotographyI met up with this lovely couple on quite possibly the most gorgeous spring day I’ve ever witnessed. Matt and Allison spent the afternoon strolling through a historic park originally built for the 1904 World’s Fair. Among the classic architecture and rolling hills, we discovered a dreamy grove of flowering Magnolia trees that provided an amazing backdrop for our session.

Photography: Mike Cassimatis Photography | Dress : Free People | Hair & Makeup : Breeze Blow Bry Bar | Groom's Jacket: Joseph Abboud | Venue: Forest Park | Film Processing: The Find Lab

15 Things Not to Do When Planning Your Dream Wedding

When it comes to planning your dream wedding, there’s a lot of factors at play — the dress, the venue, the guest list, the style, the unsolicited opinions of everyone you know, the list goes on — and it’s easy to get a little lost. Consider this preventative therapy. Here are the 15 most common wedding planning pitfalls and the secrets tricks to help you beat them!

Common Wedding Planning Mistakes
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Common Wedding Planning Mistakes
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Why hiring a planner is totally worth it!

MustWatch_swash-01 13 Reasons to Hire a Wedding Planner [dotted]

More Wedding Planning Tips + Advice

What’s Your Wedding Style? | The Ultimate Planning Timeline | Wedding Trends You Won’t Regret

This Newport Wedding is the Definition of Elegant Glamour

When you combine an ultra-flattering Anne Barge wedding dress with a sparkly Jenny Packham headband and bejeweled Badgley Mischka heels, you’re left with one gorgeous Bride. And when that Bride is saying “I do” at Belle Mer amidst a sea of beautiful flowers and lavender accents, it makes for a stunning wedding. See all the pretty from Melissa Robotti Photography in The Vault!

From The Bride…Paul and I met in NYC back in December 2011 at a classic East Village bar called Alphabet Lounge. Paul was there for his friend’s birthday and I was there to dance the night away with friends. It must have been the 90’s dance music and great conversation about skiing and running that hooked Paul. Paul even emailed himself to call me the following day…we went on our first date and the rest is history! After 2.5 years of dating, Paul proposed to me in Brooklyn Bridge Park. He surprised me right in the spot where we took a picture together a couple of years back!

Despite our love for NYC and the area where I grew up (Larchmont, NY), we wanted to get married in a place where we could have a fun weekend celebration with our closest friends and family. Newport quickly came to the top of our list–it’s a beautiful seaside city with a charming town, tons of activities & sites to explore…and a gorgeous setting! When we visited Belle Mer located on Goat Island (Newport, RI), we immediately fell in love with the all-white decor of the Water Salon, the dark wood floors and the amazing views of Narragansett Bay. It had the feeling of a sleek modern wedding, but in a beautiful New England setting. We knew we had found the perfect venue for us!

We got married on June 27th, 2015, and our wedding day could not have been more perfect! The entire night was full of energy, our friends and family danced all night, the band had everyone cheering for “one more song” and all the details came together (from the flowers to the food) in a way that made it an incredibly romantic and special day. We’re very thankful to our photographer Melissa Robotti who was able to capture all of the wonderful moments and memories on this day!

Photography: Melissa Robotti Photography | Floral Design: Greenlion | Wedding Dress: Anne Barge | Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Rings: Kwait | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Hair + Makeup: Jennie Kay beauty | Band: Hip Pocket Orchestra | Groom's Attire: Brooks Brothers | Rabbi: Julie Zupan | Venue: Belle Mer: A Longwood Venue | Bride's Earrings: Kwait | Hair Accessories: Jenny Packham | Invitations, Menus + Programs: Write On Larchmont

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
Sweet Smiles + DIY Details For This Rustic Barn Wedding

Having attended college in the Finger Lakes I’m one of the lucky ones who knows the secret of their beauty. But that cat is about to be let out of the bag with these pics by Alexandra Meseke; she captured this beautiful Bride looking her finest (thanks to Gabriella New York) and the super sweet nuptials of her and her new hubby. See it all in our Vault and join me in the Finger Lakes Fan Club right this way.

From the Bride… When Andy and I began planning our wedding, we imagined a day filled with love, laughter, music and dancing. From the moment we saw Suzanne Fine Regional Cuisine, we knew we had found the place for our celebration; Bob and the entire Suzanne staff were warm and inviting, the farmhouse and barns were beautiful, their flower and herb gardens were vibrant, and the pond out back with a view of Seneca Lake was simply stunning. The fact that their food is absolutely incredible truly set the venue over the top.

I worked on a number of DIY projects for the wedding, and also have a few people to thank for their help. My dad cut, sanded, and stained wood for me to paint with table numbers. My sister helped me prepare watercolor escort cards and also perfectly sewed the banner I made for Andy’s nephews to carry (as a surprise, she also sewed a beautiful handkerchief for my “something blue”!). I made a number of other signs as well and loved being hands on with creating each piece. We eventually brought in the Events Company to help tie the overall feel together. They provided rentals, such as linens, vintage chargers, chandeliers and lanterns, and coordinated our sparkler send off. They also created a fantastic lounge space in the barn with tufted ottomans and chairs, which was very important because we had dinner in a tent just outside the barn and used the barn as a giant dance floor. This lounge area was key in making sure all of our guests felt included in a long night of dancing. Alyssa of the Events Company was also our day-of coordinator, and she kept everything moving smoothly!

We were incredibly lucky with the weather on our wedding day – it was 80 degrees in late September in Upstate New York! The leaves had started changing and everything felt magical. I knew that I wanted to focus on the natural beauty of the property, so we decided to keep the ceremony site simple with a circle of white rose petals. One of my favorite moments was stepping into that circle of petals with Andy to exchange vows and be married by our dear friend Lucas, who blew us away with his heartfelt and personal speech. We are also both very connected to family, so it was important to us to involve family members in the ceremony. My parents walked me down the aisle, which began on a beautiful tree lined path. Our siblings stood on our respective sides. Andy’s nephews carried a banner reading “Uncle Drew Drew, here comes your bride” and were so adorable in their tuxes and Converse sneakers. My aunt Brenda and our close friend Brian did readings. We also incorporated small elements of our heritage. During the ceremony and cocktail hour, Tim Ball and Sophie Orzechowski played Irish music, including a beautiful rendition of “She Moved Through the Fair” for the processional. The flower crown, ringing of bells as we were pronounced husband and wife, reading of an Eavan Boland poem, thistle boutonnieres and tartan pocket squares were all small nods to our family history.

I also really cherished the moments walking alone with Andy to join the cocktail hour. Immediately following the ceremony, we took couples shots with Alexandra as our guests began enjoying cocktail hour. When we finished up with the photos, Andy and I walked through Suzanne’s gardens to join the celebration. As we approached hand in hand, ready to join all of the people we loved, I was overwhelmed with an indescribable feeling of excitement and calm. It was incredible to see all of our loved ones gathered in one place, laughing and celebrating, and to observe everything briefly from afar. This was a fleeting, but wonderful moment before joining everyone for a long night of incredible toasts, great food, and dancing.

Through it all, we were so grateful to have Alexandra and Michael of Alexandra Meseke Photography with us every step of the way. Alexandra offered fantastic advice throughout the planning process, from sketching the path of the sunset at our ceremony site to reviewing timelines and recommending that we plan for golden hour photos in the wildflower fields across from the lake. Together, Alexandra and Michael are such a comforting force that it almost seems like you’ve got close friends by your side. And their talent and intuition is amazing, they captured the feeling of our wedding day perfectly.


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Peruse more rustic weddings here!

Photography: Alexandra Meseke Photography | Floral Design: Whistlestop Florist | Cake: Connie Decker Cakes | Bride's Shoes: Loeffler Randall | Rings: Bario Neal | Bridesmaids' Dresses: J.Crew | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Bill Levkoff | Makeup: Erica Abdo | Hair: Adagio Salon | DJ: Select Receptions | Venue: Suzanne's Fine Dining | Bridal Boutique: Gabriella New York Bridal Salon | Decor Rental: The Events Co. | Live Music: Timothy Ball And Sophie Orzechowski

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22 Off-the-Registry Baby Shower Gifts the Parents-to-be Will Love

Whoever invented the idea of a ‘registry’ is a genius, don’t get me wrong. But when it comes to baby showers especially, I loveee getting a little something off-the-reg—like say this adorbs romper! In a sea of diaper cakes and fitted crib sheets, nothing is more fun than a gift that will induce a surprise and smile effect. Check out these 22 ideas for a bit of inspo!

22 Off-the-Registry Baby Shower Gifts the Parents-to-be Will Love
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22 Off-the-Registry Baby Shower Gifts the Parents-to-be Will Love
View Slideshow

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Baby on the way? More Sweet Inspiration right here…

The #1 Reason Every Mama Should Do a Photoshoot with Her Baby
The Hottest Baby Bags That Don’t Look Like Baby Bags
25 Ingenious Baby Shower Ideas

The Ultimate ‘Something Blue’ Wedding Inspiration

Brooke Keegan Special Events had done it again. Because this inspiration? Perfection. Overflowing with perfect ‘something blue’ details and hanging floral installations, it’s all beyond pretty. Captured by The Grovers complete with beauty from Kacee Geoffroy and rentals by Found Vintage Rentals, we’ve got all the pretty to peek in The Vault!

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From Brooke Keegan Special EventsWith the ocean breeze, gentle swaying of the trees and stunning panoramic views, this inspiration shoot on the cliffside of Palos Verdes was a treat to dream up. We wanted something airy, abundant and organic, yet detailed and refined. We used soft blue hues to compliment the ocean and the sky and creams and whites to add a touch of elegance. The perfect spring wedding inspiration…

Photography: The Grovers | Videography: Cloudless Weddings | Event Planner: Brooke Keegan Special Events | Floral Design: Olive Willow Designs | Dress: Love & Lace Bridal | Cake: Carneros Resort and Spa | Stationery: Little Miss Press | Venue: Catalina View Gardens | Beauty: Kacee Geoffroy Hair and Makeup | Models: Cassidy Roney | Rentals: Signature Party Rentals | Ring Box: The Mrs Box | Specialty Rentals: Found Rental Co. | Tabletop: Kate Holt Creative

Automate Your Business with HoneyBook + A Discount!

Listen up, event pros. We know that running your business is more than a 9-5 job… one that doesn’t leave you much time for important admin tasks.  We totally get that – and so does HoneyBook, the crazy cool company that is revolutionizing the way YOU do business.  Think amazing tools that will streamline your process and give you the free time you need to get creative.  We absolutely love them.

Your job is to make events SHINE, so squeezing in the time to run the admin side of your business? Not always easy.  That’s where HoneyBook comes in.  They’ve reimagined the way creatives work and made it oh-so-easy for you to automate your business.  I’m talking custom proposals, contracts, invoices and more (!) completely simplified by HoneyBook’s programs.  You can track clients, convos and changes all in one place, use e-signature and online payments to close those important deals quickly + easily and even stand out amongst the crowd with a branded client experience that is all sorts of awesome.  With HoneyBook, everything you’ve ever wanted for your business is right at your fingertips… literally.

Ready to streamline your collaboration with clients and peers?  Head to HoneyBook TODAY to simplify + beautify your business and receive an EXCLUSIVE 20% off a subscription or founding membership. You’ll be running on coffee and HoneyBook in no time at all, lovelies.

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