Are you in the midst of planning the biggest party of your life?! Of course you are. And are you kinda freaking out about it? Maybe. Well, fear not dear reader. Because for those of us who are still in the thick of the planning process, we’ve rounded up 20 snafus that every couple should avoid on (and leading up to) the Big Day. Click below for more!
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All my gold dreams have been realized with this pretty condo that is literally trimmed in gold. And everywhere you turn, there’s a bit of fabulousness. We’re talking palm frond ceilings, the prettiest of bedroom chandeliers and a backyard perfect for entertaining. It’s a dream space that sparkles from the second you enter that teal door. See even more captured by Audra Wrisley in the VAULT.
When my husband and I renewed our rental lease a little over two years ago, we weren’t planning on going anywhere anytime soon. But then we ran into ‘our’ home about a month later: a super cute condo with a lush green backyard, within walking distance from restaurants, and just minutes away from the city. It felt so right that we decided to make an offer, and before we knew it we were home owners!
Our 1940’s condo is exactly what you’d expect it to be, with lots of character and funny little quirks. Full of doors of different heights, a vintage fusebox, an antique hot fan, we have it all. But there is also lots of solid wood, sturdily laid brick, and tons of other durable materials you just don’t see in most new buildings anymore. Although its hard to find the parts when anything breaks, it certainly has tons of charm, and we’ve grown to love it here!
Upon settling in, I made it a mission to combine our travel treasures, small design pieces and vintage finds, as both my husband and I love a clean simple look with pops of unexpected color. The large iron casement windows provide beautiful natural light during the day. These are one part of the original design we definitely don’t plan on changing, because there are such a cool historic feature! Continually inspired by travel and our backgrounds (my husband is from Holland and has Indonesian roots), we wanted our space to feel like us. As you can see, he has quite the obsession with maps and globes, which I can’t say I mind!
When first visiting, I immediately fell in love with the open kitchen. I’m obsessed with greenery and I honestly believe you can never have enough plants, so it didn’t take long for the kitchen to get its share. Perhaps my favorite part of the house is this ceiling, that we recently wallpapered with what we refer to as our jungle ceiling.
One of our first projects in the ‘new-old’ house as we like to call it, was exposing our bedroom wall with the original brick underneath. As our house was built before drywall, it was quite a messy process! We absolutely loved the look of the brick, and eventually chose to whitewash it in order to brighten up the bedroom.
The second project I tackled, was painting our house a simple cream throughout with a gold trim- a color combination that’s quite literally in my DNA. (I recently found out my Grandmother had a gold wall in her 1940s farmhouse!) The gold trim outlines the spaces, and provides that extra bit of chic I was hoping for.
When I couldn’t find a large enough curtain rod for the living room space, I decided to tackle what turned out to be one of my favorite DIY projects, and constructed one from PVF connecting pieces. After painting it with an ‘oil bronzed’ Rustoleum spray paint, it fits in with the original door knobs and fixture in the house, and makes the space look larger.
I opted for a bright look in our bedroom with the exposed whitewashed brick wall as the focal point in the room. and lots of linen, gold, and cream textiles to make it feel cozy. This is also my favorite spot for a ‘gallery wall’, and we recently installed a series from our Indonesia trip this passed summer. I love waking up to see some of our favorite travel adventures each day.
The backyard is the perfect place for long spring and summer nights to relax and hang out with friends. Our pup Garcia loves exploring, and it’s been so fun to have an herb garden of our own for cooking some of our favorite meals!
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Photography : Audra Wrisley Photography | Amsterdam Print: Rifle Paper Co. | Colorful Pillows: World Market | Curtain Tie Backs: Urban Outfitters | Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Gold Paint : Martha Stewart | Hedgehog Measuring Cups: Billy Ella | Linen Sofa: Ikea | Lotus Light Fixture : World Market | Patio Furniture: Ikea | Patterned Rug: World Market | Pillows on Outdoor Sofa: Society 6 | Vintage Blue Globe: Brooklyn Flea | Wallpaper: Graham Brown
My hubs and I downgraded from his + hers sinks in our condo to a solo sink in our new home. And to be honest? I don’t really miss the duo at all. It’s a little more fun being cozy when we brush our teeth and I kinda love our cutie bathroom. So for those of you wishing you had a giant master bath with double duty? Embrace your solitary sink and see just how stylish they can be.
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Inspiration can come from anywhere, and for this sweet duo, it came from the Bride’s childhood home. After a childhood spent surrounded by her mother’s flower and herb gardens and discovering old family wedding photographs in the attic, Brice created her wedding theme based around the idea of a classic simplicity. And, thanks to Lisa O’Dwyer, you can gush over all the beautiful moments in The Vault!
From Lisa O’Dwyer…Boettcher Mansion is a historic mansion in Golden, Colorado. Brice and Ian loved it for its Craftsman period aesthetic (Ian is an architect), and for the beautiful Colorado mountain scenery (a lot of the guests were coming from out of state, from Kansas and Massachusetts).
From The Bride…My inspiration for our wedding actually came from my childhood home. I grew up surrounded by my mothers flower and herb gardens in the middle of a New England forest. I also grew up exploring the old farmhouse attic where my mother grew up. In that attic I would find tons of old family wedding photographs that showed a classic simplicity that I wanted to mimic.
I did not have a specific theme or specific color but I decided to go with only a few decor items and focus mainly on neutral/gold tones and greens to complement our strong Irish heritage. Beautiful florals with lots of textured greenery, specifically air plants and meaningful herbs set the background for our ceremony and reception. Brittany Kinoshita at Hana Style designs took my random thoughts and put together a color and texture palette that was sophisticated, different, and classic at the same time. Texture was the main medium that we dabbled in for the wedding- lace, sequins, velvet, and different types of greenery. It was so simple yet gorgeous and it complemented the beautiful film photography of Lisa O’Dwyer.
One of the biggest decisions that Ian and I made was to hire professionals that we trusted with everything and to let them do what they do best without too much direction from us. We basically said, “here is the feeling that we are going for” and our wonderful photographer, Lisa O’Dwyer, our amazing florist, Hana Style Designs, our take-charge coordinator, The Gardner Effect, our hair and makeup artist, Janie Rocek, and our caterer, The Pines at Genesee, made it happen beyond anything we could have ever dreamed. It is amazing what can happen when you let the people who have done this sort of thing hundreds of times make the decisions! Even when we had a last minute change of venue due to weather, they all came together and made the whole event more beautiful than we possibly could have imagined and it all happened without Ian or I having to lift a finger.
The event as a whole, for so many reasons, was an incredible experience and it would not have been possible without everyone who helped to create it.
Photography: Lisa O'Dwyer Photography | Coordination: The Gardner Effect | Floral Design: Hana Style Designs | Wedding Dress: Essense of Australia | Catering: The Pines At Genesee | Hair + Makeup: Janie Rocek | Bow Ties: Mrs. Bow Tie | Groomsmen Attire: Men's Wearhouse | Venue: Megan Kreutzer
I live for weddings like this. A destination celebration in Spain complete with a garden style ceremony and modern touches – I’m uhb-sessed. It’s a day that’s as good as gold (just like those bridesmaids’ dresses). Complete with Joseba Sandoval behind the lens snapping up every intimate moment, this Spanish celebration is sure to delight. Witness all the pretty in The Vault!
From Joseba Sandoval…Every once and awhile you have one of those weddings that just take your breath away. This was one of those weddings. I live for weddings like this.
The wedding coordinator, Lucy Bennet from The Boutique Wedding in Spain, was absolutely amazing and kept the day running smoothly. It is so important to have a great planner that is local to help when planning a destination wedding where you can’t be there to make sure that everything gets taken care of!
Ellen and Thomas planned a destination wedding that was beautiful in details but most importantly was about family. It was an intimate wedding and the family flew in from many countries to the sunny Marbella in Spain. Hacienda Madronal is a stunning location for a destination wedding. Ellen and Thomas chose this luxurious venue for their ceremony and reception. As a photographer, it was such an honor to be present. Ellen wanted from me as the photographer to capture their playful personalities, and happiness together. This wedding is so beautiful and needs to be shared.
Photography: Romance Weddings by Joseba Sandoval Photography | Event Planning: The Boutique Wedding Co. | Floral Design: Susana Sanchez | Cake: Omaya | Stationery: Beyond Vintage | Makeup: Chartlotte Lothigus | Hair: Alex Harrocks | Band: Michaell And Simone | Venue: Hacienda El Madronal
If your Friday night routine is anything like mine (read: wine, yoga pants and Say Yes to the Dress), then you may recognize this gorgeous Bride, whose Kleinfeld dress is just the beginning of her beautiful fall day. In a color palette of blush, champagne, gold and marsala accents, Valerie and Bobby’s dream wedding came to life thanks to amazing vendors like Graham Terhune Photography, Twenty One Films, Erin McLean Events, Tre Bella and Ashley Cakes. Get lost in all of the pretty in The Vault!
From Erin McLean Events…When we initially met with Valerie and Bobby, we knew they were going to be so much fun to work with. Valerie had visions of gold, blush, and sparkle dancing through her head – and we loved it! She came to us with a fall wedding date and a soft take on all things glamorous. Valerie is a natural beauty, so we wanted to create a day that built on her easy elegance and the fading warm glow of a fall afternoon.
Selecting the Pavilions at the Angus Barn fit that vision to a T. We started with a soft color palette of blushes, ivories, and shimmering hints of champagne. To bring an understated but definite pop to the design, we added a deep purple – which was also an ode to the couple’s alma mater, East Carolina University.
Early in the planning process, Valerie and her family hopped a flight to New York City for a trip to famed Kleinfeld’s Bridal to be featured on “Say Yes to the Dress”. She didn’t disappoint, selecting a show stopping Pnina Tornai design with a fitted sheer lace bodice, crystal encrusted neckline, and gorgeous satin bow detail on the back. It was such a delight to see Valerie’s sheer joy on the show when she found the perfect gown.
Throughout the months of planning, Valerie and Bobby’s main hope was that their guests were treated to an amazing experience from start to finish. They chose a mouth-watering menu – though the Angus Barn doesn’t serve anything but to die for fare and for entertainment, the couple went with a Carolina favorite, the beach music kings themselves, The Embers. Again, did not disappoint. I want to say the icing on the cake was perhaps her bridesmaid gown choice. The girls donned Adrianna Papell numbers in varying styles, and shades of blush, champagne and gold. Each was detailed in shimmering beading and flowing skirts. Paired with lush bouquets of peonies and garden roses and just a pop of marsala, the ensemble was perfection.
On their wedding day, the couple chose the newer tradition of having a first look. Planned for the sweeping front porch of her family’s home, Valerie stepped out to meet her groom. The happiness that was captured in that moment was the sum of the couple’s sweet relationship – their joy was infectious and carried them onto their vows at Valerie’s childhood chapel surrounded by all their friends and loved ones, and then to the glow of their lakeside reception at the Angus Barn just as the warm Fall sunshine was setting on the horizon.
The couple said their goodbyes at the conclusion of a lovely and oh so happy celebration under a shower of rose petals and hopped into Bobby’s pick-up truck and off on their next grand adventure together!
Photography: Anagram Photo | Cinematography: Twenty One Films | Event Planning: Erin McLean Events | Floral Design: Tre Bella Florist | Wedding Dress: Pnina Tornai | Cake: Ashley Cakes | Invitations: Purple Puddle | Ceremony Venue: Orange United Methodist Church | Reception Venue: The Pavilions At The Angus Barn | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Adrianna Papell | Catering: Angus Barn | Hair + Makeup: Makeupforyourday | Calligraphy: Well Addressed Calligraphy | Band: The Embers | Groom's Attire: Vera Wang | Ceremony Music: Elegant Ensembles | Film Processing: Richard Photo Lab | Rentals: CE Rentals | Signage: AB Chalk Designs
This lace Alexandra Grecco two piece may have had us at hello but it’s just one piece of the pretty puzzle making up this styled shoot. Anna Joy Design put together a scene that is both stylish and subtle, uber pretty and softly simple. From the fashion to the beautiful blooms by Modern Bouquet and more, Mirelle Carmichael captured it all, making our Vault the best place to be today.
From Anna Joy Design… Milagro Farm Vineyards & Winery was the perfect backdrop for this Italian-inspired bridal shoot. The property is dripping with lush greenery and is home to a stunning villa surrounded by beautiful stone. The natural elegance of this venue called for organic and old-world touches, so we dreamed up a design full of soft textures and silver accents.
We started with a color palette that would marry perfectly with the surrounding stone while still standing out in romantic contrast. Slate blue and mixed grays were brought in with delicate silks hand dyed by Silk & Willow and many gorgeous pieces from Archive Vintage Rentals, including gray glassware and the tufted seating of our dreams. Archive’s silver made a big statement in our tablescape, from vintage goblets and antique candleholders to flatware and chargers. Perfectly paired, clear crystal coupes and white china with charming scalloped edges kept the table settings clean and classic.
Hannah of Modern Bouquet created breathtaking floral designs that took romantic elegance to a new level full of organic greenery, textured white blooms and a sprinkling of dainty, foraged blue touches. Combing garden roses, ranunculus, sweet peas and scabiosa, each arrangement added dreamlike softness to the day. With a love for balance, we were inspired to bring a bit of warmth into a scene full of cooler hues. Modern Bouquet wove in hints of caramel toned roses, complementing neutral Silk & Willow napkins in the most beautiful way.
Continuing to weave in soft elements, we chose a two-piece Alexandra Grecco gown from The Dress Theory for our bride. A sheer, lace top and a long, flowing tulle skirt were a match made in heaven with slightly undone hair and natural makeup by Sweet Fuss.
Calligraphy details hand drawn by The Pointed Nib on handmade paper with torn edges provided the same relaxed elegance as our barefoot bride. Besides the lovely place cards rolled into the shape of scrolls, one of our favorite pieces was a recipe card showcasing each ingredient of the delicious Prosecco and Elderflower cocktail.
Popping a bottle of bubbly to celebrate was exactly what we all felt like doing after such a beautiful day, with every bit of romance captured on film by the incredibly talented Mirelle Carmichael Photography.
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Photography: Mirelle Carmichael | Videography: SJ Videography | Event Design + Styling: Anna Joy Design | Floral Design: Modern Bouquet | Wedding Dress: Alexandra Grecco | Hair + Makeup: Sweet Fuss Hair & Makeup Artistry | Calligraphy: The Pointed Nib | Venue: Milagro Farm Vineyards & Winery | Bridal Boutique: The Dress Theory | Linens + Ribbon: Silk and Willow | Rentals: Archive Rentals
I’m pretty sure my body is 90% salsa. I eat it with almost every meal and with good reason. It’s freaking delicious. Add guacamole to that line-up and you have yourself a serious fiesta. You may already have a signature recipe or perhaps you’re new to the mexican dip game but whatever the case, check out these 10 salsa and guac recipes that are total game changers.
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Pink Lemonade Margarita | Spicy Rose Water Margaritas | Blood Orange Paloma
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If ever there was a write up I beg you to read, this is it. It’s straight out of a movie, a thrilling, romantic adventure where jetsetting backpackers meet halfway around the world, fall in love and when they’re about to say “I do”… their wedding photographer doesn’t show. But don’t worry dear readers, because Alisa Ferris was there within an hour to capture this magical elopement before vows were exchanged and the results are downright stunning. Believe in the power of fate in our Vault right this way…
From Alisa Ferris…. Sarah and Matt met and fell in love while traveling in Southeast Asia, and then eloped at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Miami. In an interesting turn of events on the big day, when their wedding photographer failed to show up, they had a mere hour to source a new photographer! Here’s the scoop!
From the Bride… In January 2013, production had just wrapped on my first big film job. I found myself romanticizing the idea of being in Southeast Asia, so impulsively, I booked my ticket and had two weeks to condense my life into a backpack. Unknowingly, across the Atlantic in London, my future husband was also packing his bag to indefinitely escape winter. A journey that would change both of our lives.
We crossed paths at a beach bar in Railay, Thailand (a rock climbing haven). I was about to watch an infamous Thai fire show, when I overheard a striking and soft spoken British accent.
Matt and I had an immediate connection (and a love for Simon & Garfunkel), we shared life stories, future travel plans, and danced the night away.
After Railay, we met up as our routes crossed throughout the southern Thai islands. Our first “official” date was a snorkeling trip off the shores of Maya Bay (the location made famous by “The Beach” starring Leo DiCaprio).
Despite only knowing each other for a mere seven weeks, Matt and I shared so many beautiful memories – we were unsure if we’d ever see each other again. For the following six months, Matt and I Skyped every Sunday night.
Fast forward to the fall, Matt and I met up in Bangkok, and then flew to Sydney where we spent the next 11 months together followed by extensive travel throughout India, Nepal, Christmas in London, NYE in New York, and the Northern Lights in Iceland. A truly vintage year!
After a long nine-months apart, this past December Matt’s U.S. Visa was finally approved. Due to his initial Visa stipulations – 90-days to get married and no travel outside of the U.S. – it made it near-impossible for us to plan a traditional wedding. Our decision to elope, wasn’t really a decision at all. Our relationship has always been about just being able to simply be together, and we wanted this sentiment to represent our marriage.
I woke up to perfect Miami weather – clear blue skies with an ocean view. The day was going exactly as planned.
Matt arrived at Vizcaya an hour early to meet the photographer and setup for the first look. My finishing touches were near-complete when my mother received a panicked call from Matt – our photographer was nowhere in sight! I was in disbelief, with time ticking away and no Miami contacts, I felt helpless. Meanwhile at Vizcaya, Matt scrambled to search for potential photographers. My mother frantically did the same, before eventually calling my makeup artist. Carolyn said she knew the perfect fit and immediately put us in touch with Miami-based wedding photographer, Alisa Ferris. She received the call at 2:15PM and was at the venue by 3:00PM! I truly believe that our meeting was kismet.
What could’ve been a disastrous turn of events, instead, made for absolute serendipity. As with so many things that Matt and I have shared, this day was spontaneous, reflected our easy-going spirits, and in the end, was truly enchanting. Alisa’s photographs are imbued with both the beauty of our moment and the timeless charm of Vizcaya.
“An invisible thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place, and circumstance. The thread may stretch or tangle. But it will never break.” – Old Chinese Proverb (and one of my favorite quotes)
I’d like to go to Moorea in French Polynesia for our honeymoon, but we’re also considering Cuba or Tulum. In addition, next February we’re planning to go to Vietnam and revisit Thailand.
From Alisa Ferris… When I received the call from Carolyn, the makeup artist, I immediately felt crushed for the bride. To be stuck in such an unfortunate situation on your wedding day is just horrible! My biggest concern was making sure Sarah was well taken care of and felt confident in our newfound, eleventh hour relationship.
My first step was to reach out to her to waylay her well-justified insecurities, and let her know that it would be smooth sailing from here on out. Then, I literally dropped my half eaten sandwich, threw on a black dress and flats and breezed out the door (with my photo bag, of course!).
Upon arriving at the venue, my thoughts remained with my clients’ well-being. I listened to their stressful morning, cracked a few not-so-great jokes to ease the pain, and learned as much about them as I could in 10 minutes. As Sarah wrote, it was kismet. On our 7th date, my husband and I traveled throughout Southeast Asia for 30 days. Fellow adventurers and romantics unite! We immediately found common ground, and believe our paths were meant to cross. I’m grateful to have encountered such lovely humans.
So, many of you are probably thinking, “What would I do in such a situation?” Before your wedding day, it’s important to discuss Plan B with your photographer. Any reputable photographer will have a backup already in mind. To further relieve stress, ensure that there is ample communication with your photographer in the lead up to the big day: discussions regarding agenda and shot lists are key. Finally, call or text your photographer the day before the wedding to confirm everything is on track.
Photography: Alisa Ferris | Floral Design: The Flower Bazaar | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Hair + Makeup: Carolyn Jones Makeup | Venue: Vizcaya Museum And Gardens
After seeing Kim and Greg’s whimsical-meets-rustic spring wedding, I’m convinced every Bride and Groom should consider saying “I do” at the same spot they first got engaged. And not only that, but every couple should hire an A-list team of vendors like Stefanie Kapra, Bumblebee Films, Jennie Fresa, Roseville Designs and Photobooth Planet! See every reason why in The Vault!
From Stefanie Kapra…Being invited to capture Kim and Greg’s joyful wedding was a true honor to me. While I get to work with many wonderful couples, the love and sincerity between these two is very special and shines thru in everything they do. Besides the extremely upbeat atmosphere, the thoughtful and colorful details stood out in a beautiful way. From lush organic spring flowers to handmade unique ties, tasteful invitations, beautiful dresses, handmade signs, vintage cars etc… everything tied together effortlessly.
From The Bride…Greg and I were engaged for almost two and a half years. From the start our relationship has been unique, from meeting at a pool party, to moving in together when Greg’s dad was deployed overseas, to the fact that we had two wedding ceremonies in two days (one at a Church and one at the vineyard he proposed to me at)! We loved our engagement period and enjoyed the planning process. I will even go so far as to say, I miss wedding planning! It was so much fun to do something totally different and be creative in a way that I am not professionally.
We strove to include elements of “us” in our wedding that would stand up to our expectations on their own, while combining to highlight us as a couple. For us the longer engagement was amazing, because it meant that we slowed down, researched, and saved to have key elements. While planning we decided to prioritize the people, both guests and vendors. We went out of our way to research the vendors’ work beforehand so that when the time came: we could take a step back and let them carry the vision of our day into actuality. We felt strongly that the people we chose to bring into this process were artists of their craft first and foremost. If we could not find someone to translate our ideas into reality, we took matters into our own hands. For example: when we could not find perfectly unique bowties, I went fabric shopping and made them myself! It was neat because my Great-Grandma, who was with us in spirit, and my Grandma, who wasn’t able to make it, taught me how to sew. In a way it was a tribute to each of them that I was able to make distinctive bowties for all the men in the bridal party. Furthermore, our guest list was specifically drawn to bring in people based on the roles that they played in our lives before we knew each other and as a couple.
Traditional film photography, local organic flowers that fit the environment, acoustic ballads transitioning into a DJ, vintage Volkswagen busses (one housing our photo booth!), local wines grown with solar power, tent lighting that mimicked the stars outside the tent, a packed dance floor, and chalkboards that generated smiles: these were some of the elements that fused together to make something more wonderful than either one of us could ever have imagined. Since the wedding a compliment that we regularly receive from guests is that the wedding perfectly embodied ‘us’ and who we are as a couple. It really makes me so pleased to hear that from others.
Perhaps the best side effect of pouring over the decisions regarding who we brought in to collaborate on facilitating our special day, is the fact that we have gained new friendships! We maintain a relationship with each vendor that we chose to include in our wedding day. To us they are now our friends and we will continue to find ways to highlight their skills and involve them in the milestones of our life yet to come. They say that your wedding day flies by. Whoever ‘they’ are, the idiom rings true. I mean: we had two weddings and they still went by in a blink of an eye! Yet, what I will say is that with the right preparation, staying true to your dreams, trusting in your choices, being patience with the process: you can truly enjoy every minute of your wedding day.
Photography: Stefanie Kapra Photography | Cinematography: Bumblebee Films | Floral Design: Stems Flower Design | Wedding Dresses: Mariella Creations | Cake: Creative Cakes by Donna | Jewelry: Aquinnah Jewelry | Rings: NL Shaw and Company - Mystic | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Mariella Creations | Catering: Riverhouse Catering | Hair + Makeup: Jennie Fresa Brow & Beauty Bar | DJ: James Jackson | Groom's Attire: Formals By Antonio | Ceremony Music: James Harris Guitar | Transportation: Stefanie Kapra Photography | Venue: Priam Vineyard | Invitations + Stationery: Roseville Designs | Photo Booth: Photobooth Planet | Signage: The Grounds Collective | Table Decor/Knots: Mystic Knotwork
This bride has that perfect go-with-the-flow mentality I think anyone planning wedding needs. “A few minutes before my bridesmaids and I were to walk down the aisle, a bridesmaid sprayed Sprite all over the girls’ dresses! The hairdresser started blow drying them and I ate some cookies. The only tears I cried that day were happy ones while exchanging vows with my husband,” she said. Heather Waraksa captured all those happy tears and a secret garden-esque gallery you’re going to LOVE.
From the Bride…
What did you envision your wedding being prior to planning?
Romantic and classic. We knew we wanted part, if not all, of the wedding to be outdoors. We both love nature and wanted to be in a garden or forest. As we continued planning, I began falling for a more whimsical theme. We had several guests tell us the night was magical (one guest said she expected fairies to fly out during the reception because of the beautiful venue!)
What was your color palette and your style vision?
I wanted muted colors since the greenery of the venue is so vibrant. Our main color was a light, dove gray. We also included elements of very pale pink (blush), white, and light mint. Since my husband’s (and now my) last name is Silver, we stuck with silver for any metallic elements and shied away from gold and brass.
What unique elements or DIY details did you include?
I worked with the graphic designer to custom make the save-the-date and venue map (which was a program insert). I designed the goodie bag Welcome & Information notes on powerpoint and printed them at a local print shop in NYC (Village Copier). We really loved our paper products, from the laser print invites to our Mr. & Mrs. Silver napkins. My mother is from the south (Tennessee) and wanted to incorporate a Southern tradition into the wedding. The mothers and Matt’s grandmother were given Tussie Mussies with flowers (mini bouquets held in ornate silver, cone-shaped carriers) to hold as they walked down the aisle. My mother and I spray painted the heart BHLDN place card holders white since they came in a brass color.
My husband wore his late grandfather’s ring and I wore my late grandmother’s ring for our vow exchange. Our venue wouldn’t allow sparklers so we handed out LOVE-labeled bubbles instead, which we felt added to the whimsical theme. Our female guests loved the RescueFlats we provided to help them dance the night away. Our planners had the idea to put the foldable shoes in a beautiful white, open bookshelf covered in flowers. This idea maintained our atheistic with the modern shoe packaging.
What was your favorite moment? Your favorite crafted detail?
Hard question! But I would say our first dance. Matt had surprised me by getting us last minute dance lessons. Even though I made a tiny error in the moves (we laughed through it!), we nailed the ending with a perfectly timed dip (the song was The Beatles “And I Love Her”). Matt was so happy to have gotten it right on cue! My favorite crafted detail was the greenery hanging from the chandeliers in the reception tent. Every time I looked up at it, I was reminded of our ceremony location. The tent also had twinkling string lights throughout, mimicking the night sky.
What is one piece of advice that you could give brides-to-be?
To let go the day of and enjoy. I am a planner, but I didn’t fuss over anything the day of our wedding. A few minutes before my bridesmaids and I were to walk down the aisle, a bridesmaid sprayed Sprite all over the girls’ dresses! The hairdresser started blow drying them and I ate some cookies. The only tears I cried that day were happy ones while exchanging vows with my husband.
Photography: Heather Waraksa | Event Planning + Design: Firefly Events | Floral Design: Rebecca Shepherd Floral Design | Wedding Dress: Anne Barge | Cake: Nine Cakes | Rings: Brilliantly Engaged | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Catering: Great Performances | Makeup: Nicole Sievers Makeup Artistry | Hair: Styles On B | Groom's Attire: Calvin Klein | Ceremony Music: Elan Artists | Venue: Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts | Getaway Car: Silver Star Limousine | Invitation Suite Design & Printing: Spark Letterpress | Mother of the Bride Gown: Valentino | Photo Processing: Richard Photo Lab | Reception Music: Elan Artists | Rentals: Party Rentals Ltd | Stationery Paperie: Lion in the Sun
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 official kickoff of wedding season is upon us, so we felt it only right to highlight a few no-nos for those the celebrations ahead. Bottom line: remember that it’s the couple’s big day and you’re there to offer love, support, and encouragement from beginning to end. Avoid these little (and big!) guest mistakes and you’ll be smooth sailing all wedding season long.
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Style Do’s + Dont’s | Be the Perfect Wedding Guest | Wedding Dress Code Explained
Yes, you read the title correctly. Instead of going the traditional route for their engagement session this couple opted for a pillow fight in the woods. If that doesn’t hook you right off the bat then these captures should do the trick, all thanks to The Vondys. It’s a playful, crazy fun engagement session that we’re completely smitten with. See it all in The Vault!
From The Bride…However, JD was not into the actual audition once he found out that it was for a reality-type show. So what does he do? He “acts” his way through the audition, pretending to be Malibu the gladiator, claiming he is really only interested in “beaches & babes”. From that day on, he became the “beaches & babes guy” in our department! I clicked with these three guys immediately and knew I could be friends with them. I was fairly new to the city without many friends (and a crazy room mate that I needed to get far away from). After several months, they had a room open up in their house that they needed to sublet to someone and reached out to me knowing about my current living situation. I accepted and became the “New Girl”…yes, it was just like Jess from New Girl situation. It was then, once we started living under the same roof, that a relationship started between JD and I, and we have lived together ever since, and always will. (Super cheesy, unconventional, and our favorite love story of all time) p.s. Once my casting director got wind that I was dating someone, she called me over to her desk and said, “Kelsey, I heard you were dating someone….care to tell me who it is?” I was like, “What are you talking about?” When she exclaimed, “ARE YOU DATING THE BEACHES AND BABES GUY!???” It was one of the funniest moments of my life!
We have been together for 6 years this year, so as crazy as it sounds, I have been planning our wedding (well the design part at least) since year 1, when I knew it was him I would see at the end of the aisle. We are both very free-spirited, creative, fun, and we goof around a lot. One day I was diving into the black hole of Pinterest, pinning wedding ideas left and right that pertain to our style, when I randomly came across these two little kids jumping on a bed with feathers flying, laughing, having a pillow fight. That moment, a light bulb in my head lit up and I turned to JD and said, “We must have an adult pillow fight for our engagement session!” He loved it. We both knew that we didn’t want it to be the conventional bedroom pillow fight though (because anyone who knows us, knows that we are always going against the grain). We both decided that we love the forest, and since we are also getting married in a forest-like setting, we deemed it the most appropriate to have our pillow fight in the woods in California!
Be yourself and stay true to who you are as a couple. JD and I, like I said, are wild, free, creative, and joke around a lot. We really wanted that to be portrayed through our engagement photos. Knowing we were going to be using them for our Save The Dates, we wanted to give people a taste of the fun they will have to look forward to at our wedding! We have since decided to include feathers throughout our wedding decor as well, so we will have a feather in each envelope of our save the dates. Think about those little details when you are planning your engagement session. Are you using these photos for your save the date? Will they reflect the “theme” of your wedding, or portray the tone you want set for your guests? But number one, always remember to have fun while planning and during the session!
Photography: the vondys. | Design: Piece By Paz | Venue: Los Angeles
As an October baby, I’m totally on board with opal engagement rings. But if you’re not, just take a peek at the Trumpet & Horn beauty below from Sweetlife Photography, and you’ll be in love, too! With a transparent Contra Luz Oval Cabochon opal center and diamond halo, the art deco stunner is perfect for any Bride looking for something one-of-a-kind. Get the look and see more gorgeous birthstone engagement rings below!
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Anika & August | Trumpet & Horn | AntEvaCrafts
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Fiestas aren’t just for Cinco de Mayo. They pretty much work for any warm weathered get together. Like an engagement party or a backyard bbq or a random tuesday when tacos are on the menu. And with a few key ingredients (read: colorful pool garland, sombreros and tequila) your fiesta will be next level fabulous. Steal a few ideas from this festive party crafted by Elle B Events + photos by Esther Louise.
Kourtney owns two miniature donkeys and when her mother Debbie was planning an engagement party for her they decided to base the theme around the donkeys and came up with a fiesta theme. Every last detail was thought of from the flower garland to the piñata cookies to the custom fiesta flags with their names. Kourtney and TJ celebrated their engagement with friends and family under the stars sipping on beer and margaritas as a country rock band played the night away.
Photography: Esther Louise Photography | Floral Design: Church Of Evangelical Faith | Catering: Catering By The Family | Hair And Makeup: Rachel Reumann | Band: JT Curtis Band | Cookies + Cupcakes: Elise's Pieces | Farm Tables + Metal Chairs: Wish Vintage Rentals | Napkin + Koozie Designs, Event Setup + Design Consulting: Elle B Events | Photobooth: Photogenica Photo Booth Co. | Sequin Linens : Etsy Seller Jessmy | Tissue Flags + Pinatas: Lulaflora Designs
Peter & Veronika Photography has completely convinced us that European engagement sessions are the best engagement sessions. Ancient architecture? Check. Crazy chic cafes? Oh you bet. Cobblestone street strolls complete with sweet kisses? Of course. We’re completely in love with every single detail of this gallery and we invite you to get in on the obsession via The Vault!
With Peter & Veronika we found excellent and lovely photographers, who pictured us in the very heart of Vienna, our hometown, exactly in the style and the mood we felt and wanted it! We really love those pics and used them for the save-the-dates and the wedding invitations! For our actual wedding we found the perfect location which represents a kind of opposite of the old center of Vienna: the fresh, green but still stylish Wiegerova Vila in Svätý Jur in Slovakia. We can’t wait for June!!!
Photography: Peter & Veronika | Venue: Vienna Austria
The phrase “Star Wars wedding” doesn’t exactly evoke an elegant affair, but this beautiful Bride and Groom’s rustic North Carolina wedding is as elegant as they come, even with a Stormtrooper and Boba Fett appearance at cocktail hour. From the Star Wars touches to the heartwarming first look, the Force was clearly with this sweet couple, thanks to Asheville Event Co. See all the special moments captured by Almond Leaf Studios in The Vault!
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From The Bride…Mike and I started dating in Florida. He was an assistant swim coach for the University of Florida and I had gotten a position as an intern at the School of Veterinary Medicine. For our first date he took me to the butterfly gardens at the UF Natural History museum, then rock climbing and THEN to a fantastic dinner with some live music. I remember texting my mom from the butterfly garden and basically saying “he’s it.” We spent the next six months traveling all over Florida, having all kinds of adventure. We ended up living in Washington, D.C. and are literally in the middle of planning a cross-country road trip as we move our little family of three to San Francisco in May. Writing this now I have to laugh because I knew adventure would be one of the central themes in our marriage. Mike proposed in New York over Christmas in 2014 and from the beginning of planning I knew our big day needed to be somewhere that reflected us as a couple…fun, unpredictable, and definitely outdoors.
We loved Laurel Ridge Country Club for it’s charm and rustic elegance (okay, I loved it for that reason, Mike’s specifications were that the place have four walls and a roof). We wanted a wedding that was beautiful and relaxed with a lot of our personality thrown in the mix! Asheville Event Co. did such a fantastic job of suggesting vendors who were the absolute best. I learned pretty early that I really wanted to just give Missie an idea and have her execute it and handle the details. Which she did. Flawlessly. The team incorporated Star Wars characters for cocktail hour (seriously), created the most stunning ceremony space, and ran back to our family cabin when I realized AT THE RECEPTION we had forgotten the garter. I got to peek at the ceremony space before our first look and I remember thinking “this is it. This is exactly what I saw in my head.” We planned the big day in nine months and seven months later our friends and family still talk about how beautiful and fun our wedding was, which is just incredible. My favorite detail from the whole day had to be my bridesmaids earrings. I am a total history nerd and so I knew I needed to incorporate that into the wedding in some way. I found antique pearl earrings in a vintage shop in Paris, they had been found hidden away after WWII, and I knew right then that was my gift to my girls!
My favorite moment had to be our first look. Initially I was very against a first look thinking it would take something away from the ceremony, but one day during planning I thought “I want a moment that is just ours…that we get to keep forever, just the two of us.” And everything else just fell into place. I loved everything about my dress and could not wait to see his face that day. On the way to where we were meeting, there were a lot of leaves, making it difficult to walk in heels, so, I took them off and walked up to him barefoot in this dream lace dress in the middle of the mountains…and the moment was perfect. Then we met up with our bridal party, who were accompanied by some extra guests (Boba Fett and a Storm Trooper) and Mike’s face when he realized my surprise made every second of extra planning worth it. We had a beautiful, short ceremony and a long awesome reception where we basically didn’t leave the dance floor. A tunnel of sparklers guided us to the antique Rolls Royce that was our getaway car and our driver sped away to the Inn at Biltmore where we stayed for two nights before leaving for a two week honeymoon in Florida and the Caribbean.
Photography: Almond Leaf Studios | Cinematography: Almond Leaf Studios | Event Planning: AEC Planning and Design | Floral Design: flora | Wedding Dress: Essense of Australia | Cake: Ruth And Ranshaw | Invitations: Old City Press | Bride's Shoes: Manolo Blahnik | Makeup: Blush By Wendy | Hair: Ananda Hair Studio | Calligraphy: Mason Dixon Design | DJ: Split Second Sound | String Quartet: Cafe String Quartet | Venue: Laurel Ridge Country Club | Photo Booth: Hot Dog | Rentals: Classic Event Rental
Fourteen years after one awkward adolescent car ride, this sweet Bride and Groom became husband and wife in one gorgeous spring wedding. With lavender Jenny Yoo bridesmaids’ dresses, a classic tented reception, music from Beat Train Productions and beautiful photos from White Loft Studio, you’d be majorly missing out if you didn’t head to The Vault to see all the pretty!
From The Bride…I grew up in a tiny suburb of Boston, Luke in Charlotte, NC. We met by chance when we were fourteen years old. Luke’s best friend from Charlotte, Justin, moved to my hometown during Freshman year of high school, we became friends, and Luke came up to visit him during the Spring. I remember Justin’s mom coming to pick me up and climbing into the back seat of her car and Luke sitting there. He was cute, with crooked teeth and wearing a Saves the Day tee shirt. I said “Hi Luke” and he, nervously, said nothing back. We spent the next few hours not speaking to each other, I pretty much didn’t speak at all the entire afternoon and made up an excuse that I had a project to do so Justin’s mom would bring me home. My friend Jess and I took a walk that afternoon and I remember telling her all about Luke, even though we literally had not spoken to one another. He happened to have the guts to talk to me on AIM, and it went from there (the original online relationship!). We became super close talking online, and we would talk on the phone for hours. Every time he came to visit Justin, it would be like starting from zero. We were so scared of each other. We had our first kiss when we were 16 in the back seat of a van full of people.
This is a really long story, how 14 years later we are married (there was a lot of time in there that we were not in touch), but fast forward to the summer of 2008, when Luke moved to New York, I was in school at the time. We never really said we were together, we just haven’t been apart since. Luke proposed to me in August of 2014 when we were in Italy on vacation. I had been on Cape Cod the weekend before with my mom, and she said to me “I wonder if he will propose to you,” which I jokingly repeated to Luke. He just responded, “I’m really sorry but you planned this trip.” I KNEW it wasn’t happening. When it did happen, we were on the side of the Arno in Florence, wandering around after dinner the second night of our trip; it was incredible, and a total surprise. The vacation felt like a honeymoon!
I wanted to get married pretty quickly, we planned the wedding for only 9 months. Everything fell into place really easily. Fruitlands Museum was the first venue we looked at, a recommendation from one of my moms patients. It is so beautiful and the people that run it are amazing. Planning our reception there couldn’t have been easier. Our ceremony was at the small church that my parents go to, it was really relaxed and pretty. There were so many details that just fell into place, which looking back I am so grateful for.
Photography: White Loft Studio | Floral Design: A Whole Bunch Flower Market | Wedding Dress: Laure De Sagazan | Cake: Konditor Meister | Invitations: Katharine Watson | Ceremony Venue: Saint Matthews Church | Reception Venue: Fruitlands Museum | Bride's Shoes: Repetto | Bridesmaids' Shoes: A Detacher | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Catering: Fireside Catering | DJ: Beat Train Productions | Favors: The Sweet Life | Groom's Attire: J.Crew | Groomsmen Attire: Vera Wang | Bridal Boutique: The Mews | Menu + Programs: Bride + Groom | Place Cards + Table Numbers: Laura McElherne
When wedding photographers themselves says “I do” it’s kinda guaranteed to be great. But this one here took it to a new level; to say I’m smitten would be an understatement. From the Jenny Yoo dresses to the gold and silver sparkles, this New Orleans celebration has my heart and isn’t letting go anytime soon. Brock Gomez Productions brought it to life and this darling duo wisely chose Marissa Lambert to snap all their special moments. This Vault gallery is my new happy place – meet me there and thank me later.
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From the Bride… As designers and wedding photographers, we sort of knew what we wanted fairly quickly. A wedding in daylight, during the month of December with our closest friends and family were just a few must-haves for our wedding.
We chose New Orleans as the destination. We were residents at the time and love the culture and unique aspects of the city. The Magnolia Bridge is a pedestrian crossing located in the heart of Midcity (the neighborhood Brad lived in); it just felt like the perfect spot for our small, afternoon wedding.
Everything about our ceremony was personal. Brad’s cousin officiated, we hand selected readings, hand wrote our vows, and our good friend Jesse wrote the music. Even the cones filled with dried petals were made of song lyrics from “You’ve Got a Friend” (the first song Brad said reminded him of me).
Following the wedding, we second lined (using stamped napkins with our wedding logo) over to the Pitot House (a historical landmark in the city). On the grounds outside the house, we hosted our guests inside a clear tent with string lights… and spent the earlier portion of the reception mingling with friends and family.
It’s not tradition in the South to have toasts or even a sit down dinner… but we loved the idea of both so we went for it. The seating chart was created out of a laser cut map of New Orleans. Each name on the seating chart was laser cut and corresponded to the table (named after all our favorite neighborhoods in the city). Everyone had their own name cut out of wood again larger this time on their individual place setting. And the tables were decorated with pine cones and a deep colored floral and eucalyptus garland from end to end.
Our linens were mixed: some ivory and occasionally gold or silver to highlight our toasting, dessert, cake and sweetheart tables. Our cake was simple… white fondant with olive branches and lovely Crate & Barrel flutes (I love these!).
We ended the night with dancing and placed a lock gifted to us on the bridge to seal the deal!
Photography: Mon Soleil Weddings | Videography: Brock Gomez Productions | Event Planning: Hannah Trahan Weddings | Floral Design: Root Floral Design | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Wedding Dress: Jenny Yoo | Reception Venue: Pitot House | Catering: Best Catered Events | Makeup: Sara Buteaux | Hair: Nicole Pigeon | Calligraphy: St. Blanc Calligraphy | Band: Three37 | Ceremony Music: Jesse Zenon | Getting Ready Location: Ashton's Bed And Breakfast | Headpiece: jennifer behr | Wedding Branding: Haylei Smith | Wedding Dress Capelet: Carol Hannah
