Style Me Pretty: Wedding Blog for the Style-Obsessed Bride

Courtyard Lights and Centuries-Old Oaks Set the Scene at Silverado Resort

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White, cream, shades of greens and grays

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Tucked away within Silverado Resort’s renowned golf course, the wedding took place at The Grove—a hidden gem surrounded by centuries-old oak trees, lush greenery, and highlighted by a brick courtyard strung with romantic bistro lights, where dinner and dancing took place. The couple leaned into the natural magic of the setting, creating a secret garden atmosphere that felt completely transportive. From the very beginning, the couple’s vision centered on connection, celebration, and inclusion. They wanted their wedding to be more than beautiful—they wanted it to feel heartfelt and shared, bringing together both families and friends in a way that was warm, joyful, and memorable.

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Written by groom: Alyssa was a few months into medical school and already deep in the grind, studying seven days a week, often for long hours. When she finally had a rare three-day weekend after a big exam, I knew it was the perfect moment. I had already picked out her ring and originally planned to propose a few months later, but I couldn’t wait. To make it special, I suggested we celebrate her exam being over with drinks in Boston’s Seaport District, followed by a fancy dinner. I told her we should really dress up to mark the occasion. Behind the scenes, I had coordinated with a photographer to meet us at a beautiful spot along the water with the Boston skyline as the backdrop. On the way there, I was a bundle of nerves, trying to keep the ring box hidden. It was much larger (and more obvious) than I’d expected, but somehow, I managed to keep it out of sight. When we arrived in Seaport, we started walking along the waterfront until we reached the perfect spot. I got down on one knee – and in a funny twist of fate, I managed to pick the exact spot where a statue was blocking our photographer’s view. He had to scramble and jump into a new position to catch the moment! I asked Alyssa if she would do “all the things forever” with me. She said yes. We were both overjoyed and excited, and we spent the next hour taking photos around Seaport, capturing the joy of the moment. Later that evening, we finally enjoyed the fancy dinner and celebratory drinks we’d planned, making it a night we’ll never forget.

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The designer of the wedding gown was Suzanne Neville, known for her timeless elegance and impeccable craftsmanship. Alyssa got her dress from a boutique called Your Dream Bridal, where the owner, Malinda Macari, works directly with Suzanne to order custom, made-to-measure gowns. It was truly a personalized experience from start to finish!

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For the bridesmaids, the ladies chose a silky green shade from Birdy Grey, an online boutique known for its stylish options. Each bridesmaid selected a unique dress style in the same color, giving them the freedom to wear something that made them feel confident and comfortable. The mix of silhouettes brought so much depth and personality to the overall look, while still feeling perfectly cohesive and elegant.

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The groom wore a classic Ralph Lauren tuxedo, pairing a white jacket with black pants to add a fun, modern twist on a timeless look. It struck the perfect balance between sophistication and personality, and tied in effortlessly with the overall vibe of the day. The groomsmen wore an all black tux.

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Dinner began with a light and flavorful tomato and melon salad, a vibrant celebration of peak-season produce. For the main course, guests selected their entrée in advance, with choices ranging from pan-seared king salmon and braised short rib pavé to dayboat scallops and a handmade vegetarian tortellini. In true Napa Valley style, every ingredient was locally sourced and farm-to-table fresh, reflecting the couple’s appreciation for seasonal, sustainable cuisine. To complement the meal, the couple served two standout Napa wines: Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon and Far Niente Chardonnay. Both selections paired beautifully with the dinner offerings—bold yet balanced, and perfectly in tune with the flavors of the evening.

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For the dinner tables, we chose an elevated yet understated palette that brought a sense of refined elegance to the reception. We used upgraded textured white linens that added depth and softness to the overall look, paired with gray mitered napkins for a tailored, modern touch. Each place setting featured a stone white charger, providing a subtle, organic base for the customized menus. The menus were finished with a delicate wax seal, varying in shades of gray and white, adding a personalized and tactile detail. Centerpieces of white dahlias, garden roses, campanula, phlox, and seasonal greenery added a soft, natural elegance, creating a tablescape that was both classic and thoughtfully curated. All of the tables were long and set together to evoke the feeling of one extended family table, encouraging connection, conversation, and a true sense of togetherness.

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Instead of a traditional wedding cake, the bride and groom opted for a decadent dessert bar that delighted guests with a variety of bite-sized treats. The spread included cannoli, chocolate truffles, cinnamon donut balls, cake pops, and cheesecake bites—offering something for every sweet tooth. A particularly meaningful touch was the custom cannoli, thoughtfully included to honor the groom’s Italian heritage.

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The bride and groom chose the Lucky Devils Band, a dynamic 14-piece band, to provide live music. A solo guitarist played during the ceremony, with a beautiful acoustic rendition of “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran as the main processional. During cocktail hour, a jazz trio from the band entertained guests with smooth, laid-back tunes as they mingled and enjoyed drinks and appetizers. As the evening transitioned to dinner, the full band began to play, an elegant cue for guests to take their seats and a seamless way to carry the energy forward. Other song selections included classics like “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra, “Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison, and “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts—each adding a personal touch to the celebration.

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The ceremony took place beneath a canopy of century-old oak trees. Lush florals in soft whites and creams cascaded from a one-of-a-kind handmade mahogany three-piece framed arch, made by a family friend.

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Guests had a blast capturing memories in a charming, vintage white VW bus transformed into a photo booth, adding a playful, retro touch.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]The evening culminated in a magical finale as the newlyweds were whisked away in a white, fairy-tale Cinderella carriage pulled by two majestic Percheron draft horses. Even the horses’ braided manes were adorned with silk green ribbons—the couple’s signature wedding color—adding a thoughtful, personalized touch to the enchanting scene. This unforgettable moment served as their grand and heartfelt send-off—an ending straight out of a storybook![/field]
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Lucky Devils Band

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When “No Such Thing as Too Much Pink” Becomes a Dress Code and a Design Story

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Different shades of pink with touches of gold and white [/field]
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When Olivia first met with Paige Events, she communicated her vision of having a ‘pink-tie’ wedding and mentioned “there was no such thing as too much pink!” So we immediately began brainstorming the various ways to tie in shades of pink throughout the design. Our goal was to incorporate pink tastefully, in a way that still allowed the bridal white and natural greens of the venue to shine. The vision felt complete when Olivia asked all of her guests to dress in their favorite formal pink attire.

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Olivia and Cameron are high school sweethearts from Indiana who had been dating for over seven years at the time of their wedding. From proms together to overlapping college years at Indiana University in Bloomington, the two have become inseparable. On a trip to Olivia’s family’s home on Anna Maria Island, Florida, in May 2023, Cameron organized a surprise proposal for Olivia. He hired a photographer and set up a giant heart made of rose petals on the beach, and brought Olivia down to the area under the guise of going to see some turtles on the beach. Olivia had no idea it was coming, and the two had a lovely time celebrating just the two of them in Florida before returning home for the wedding, which was planned to begin.

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Olivia wanted to find a statement dress, and she found hers at Bridal and Formal in Cincinnati, Ohio, by MADELINE! She loved the fullness of it as well as the floral appliqué. She also found her Nicole + Felicia afterparty dress there, a dress she had seen and kept in her mind for a long time before her wedding, as she wanted something light and bouncy she could dance in.

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By no surprise, Olivia knew she wanted to outfit her bridesmaids in pink. She had her bridesmaids get their dresses at B.Loved in Seymour, Indiana. Her bridesmaids wore different styles of dresses in the same pink, satin fabric, while Cameron’s sisters wore a matching shade of pink in a chiffon fabric. The mother of the bride’s patterned dress by Mac Duggal perfectly complemented the solid dresses of the bridal party. Olivia also had additional friends participating in the ceremony as bridal attendants who wore matching floral dresses, also purchased from B.Loved. Dreamcatcher Artistry completed all of the girls’ looks with the most perfect hair and makeup.

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Cameron and his groomsmen also shopped for their tuxes at B.Loved in Seymour. They landed on classic black and white tuxedos from Kenneth Cole.

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While Olivia and Cameron’s pets couldn’t make the trip from Indiana to Napa for the wedding, their presence was certainly felt all night at the bar. We titled the bar ‘The Boujee Bar,’ after their adorable white Persian cat named Boujee, and created custom cocktail napkins and bar signs to feature her. The two signature cocktails of the night were named after their two dogs, Cashmere and Chanel, with each drink chosen to represent their dogs’ different personalities. Custom stir sticks with the pups’ heads accompanied each drink. The menu of the evening featured fresh California cuisine from Carneros, such as a little gem salad with fresh vegetables and homemade peppercorn dressing. Olivia and Cameron were especially excited to feature Carneros’ famous sugary Boon Fly donuts on the coffee bar after dinner, as they had sampled them many times on their various wedding planning trips out west.

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We had a lot of fun brainstorming all of the ways to incorporate the color pink, as well as small touches that represented Olivia and Cameron’s love story into the decor of the day. Paulina at Fig & Vine utilized lush garden blooms in ivory and blush with pops of hot pink and greens. The rain luckily stayed away all day long as Paulina and her team set up hanging roses from the arbor and built large statement florals adorning each side of the structure, as well as an asymmetrical floral aisle, which created a dramatic entrance for the bridal party and bride. Additional florals, such as loose petals thrown at the end of the ceremony, chandelier arrangements, and more tabletop pieces, created the perfect romantic vibe all day and night long. One of the first things confirmed in the planning process was Found’s “Peony Bar,” which created the perfect focal point for the tented courtyard where cocktail hour took place. Paige Events curated a collection of various Found, Theoni, and Bright furniture to create the full look of the cocktail hour lounges and dinner ballroom. Theoni’s pink and gold flatware, pink glassware, and pink chargers were also the perfect touch of pink on the dinner tables without being too overwhelming. As the night continued, a disco ball perfectly set the party tone over the black and white checkered dance floor, while pink uplights around the room set more of the ‘party’ vibe. Shimmer & Stain helped Olivia and Cameron incorporate various “easter eggs,” as they call them, throughout the day’s signage and paper products. Signage was subtly adorned with flying butterflies, which is not only a creature Olivia loves but is also used by the family as a symbol to remember their family dog, who has passed. Custom wedding programs educated guests on which “easter eggs” to look out for throughout the day and the meaning behind them. The seating chart was clearly the focal point of the night and unintentionally became a popular photo spot for guests to take pictures in front of. (More on the seating chart below) We even had Shimmer & Stain use the same paint as Found’s pink bar we rented, to ensure we had no clashing. At the last minute, we decided to source a collection of coffee table books of things the couple loves, such as southern beach towns, fashion, and Taylor Swift, which adorned the coffee tables in the lounges of the tent and added a bit more personality.

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Their gorgeous three-tiered cake came from Flour and Bloom Cakes in Glen Ellen, CA. Ora Beth, owner and pastry chef at Flour and Bloom, led us through an incredible cake tasting of more than ten flavors, which were nearly impossible to decide between. But ultimately, Olivia and Cameron chose raspberry vanilla, which just so happened to create the perfect shade of pink to match the reception, and chocolate chip espresso because they love coffee. Ora decorated the cake’s exterior with Swiss meringue buttercream in styles that were inspired by Olivia’s second reception dress. Olivia also surprised Cameron by getting him his favorite dessert – a cheesecake – to surprise him at the reception! She had Ora create figurines of their three pets, Boujee, Chanel, and Cashmere, to adorn the cake.

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After Olivia’s dad walked her down the aisle with her mom, he assumed his role as the ceremony’s officiant. He incorporated thoughtful stories of Olivia and Cameron’s childhood and early high school romance, and managed to take the most perfect ceremony selfie with all of the wedding attendees mid-ceremony, which has become one of Olivia and Cameron’s favorite photos of the entire day. In 2015, Olivia’s mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, and in July 2019, the test results indicated it had become metastatic breast cancer. She has been fighting a strong battle for her health with her amazing family by her side each step of the way. For the last ten-plus years, rainbows have become a meaningful symbol of Olivia and her mom’s relationship, as they always say, “one day they will meet again somewhere over the rainbow.” The two have matching rainbow tattoos, which are just a small symbol of their incredibly close and sincere bond as mother and daughter. Therefore, rainbows became a meaningful theme of the weekend – the bridal party processed down the aisle to Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and Olivia and her mom shared a heartfelt dance to “Rainbow” by Kacey Musgraves at the reception. A serendipitous moment was also created during the ceremony rehearsal the day before, when the pouring rain suddenly cleared and created a giant rainbow stretching directly over the center of the ceremony arbor for a few magical minutes before it vanished. As a huge Taylor Swift fan, Olivia was also excited to incorporate a few of her songs into the day. Olivia walked down the aisle to “Lover,” and guests were invited to stand for her entrance as Taylor sang “Ladies and gentlemen, will you please stand?” Cameron and his mom shared a special dance to “Boy” by Lee Brice, and Cameron surprised his mom by having Ivy Hill Entertainment add a recording of one of his late grandfather’s voicemails to the end of the song, leaving everyone in tears as we heard his voice echo over the speakers as they finished their dance. It also just so happened that the projector behind the dance floor was projecting videos of baby Cameron and his mother at the same time this dance was occurring.

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SEATING CHART: We hired Shimmer & Stain to bring a very specific vision to life for their seating chart. Olivia and Cameron really wanted to incorporate some sort of grand tree into this structure as a representative of the family tree that makes up the most important people in their lives – the ones that came all the way out to California from the Midwest to celebrate them. Olivia, her mother, and Cameron’s mother also had a magical experience soaring over Napa in a hot air balloon in one of their wedding-planning trips. So Shimmer & Stain creatively combined these two ideas by creating custom paper mâché hot air balloons and hanging them from the family tree. They tied it all together with the adorable title that read “Up, Up, and Away With Our Favorite People.” Their guest book was also a family tree, of which everyone could sign a wooden leaf and drop it into a glass structure to create a full image of a tree. At their rehearsal dinner the evening before, they also had an interactive station where guests could use different shades of green paint to add their thumbprint to a canvas that featured a single tree trunk, creating a painted family tree of all of their loved ones for them to have forever.

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PINK CAR: Olivia and Cameron expressed interest in a vintage car for a ‘getaway’ moment, so we made a few calls around looking for the perfect vehicle. After originally looking for a white or offwhite car, we came across the Pink Wedding Car and knew it would be absolutely spot-on for their day. Kevin, the car’s owner, graciously trailed it all the way from Santa Cruz to Sonoma and gave us the rundown of how to operate it. Fig & Vine decorated it with florals, and it was parked outside the ceremony for guests to admire upon arrival, and then used as a sendoff after the couple walked down the aisle, and then again at the end of the night after the couple was paraded out by their guests holding paper lanterns. It was a showstopper!

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Found Rental Co.

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Shimmer & Stain

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Anderson House Hosts a Fall Wedding of Black-Tie Style and “Tied Together” Details

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Vibrant hues of pink, lilac, and ivory adorned the floral arrangements, with subtle touches of gold woven throughout the design for a refined and romantic color palette. The bride, groom, and wedding party wore classic black and white, a timeless choice that made the vibrant florals stand out beautifully.

Laura and Ramin’s fall wedding in Washington, DC, was a joyful celebration of love, family, and cultural heritage. From the beginning, they envisioned a heartfelt affair that brought together their Persian and European backgrounds in a setting that felt elegant yet deeply personal. Laura says: “When planning our wedding, we were inspired by the colorful dinnerware of our Persian and Hungarian cultures. Hungarians value bright, folk-inspired floral designs, while Persians are known for intricate, colorful geometric patterns. These rich traditions became the foundation of our design, with the vibrant plates guiding the overall aesthetic of our celebration.” The couple found their perfect backdrop in Anderson House, a historic DC landmark known for its grandeur and old-world charm. To bring their vision to life, they partnered with Aprill Gordon of Tulle and Tinsel Events, whose signature style blends sophistication with rich storytelling. Aprill’s thoughtful attention to detail and seamless incorporation of cultural elements created an experience that felt both elevated and intimate. Throughout the venue, every detail reflected who Laura and Ramin are as a couple. Playful bow accents adorned their space, from chairs and napkins to their welcome sign and seated chart display, symbolizing their “tied together” theme.

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Laura and Ramin’s love story came full circle on their wedding day—fittingly, they first met at a wedding. Years later, when their paths crossed again and the timing was just right, they began a friendship, which quickly blossomed into something more. Laura recalls: “Ramin planned a romantic, fun-filled weekend getaway to Austin, Texas—a city we had both explored separately, but never together. One evening, before a candlelit dinner at Aba, he suggested a sunset stroll along the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge.” As the Austin skyline shimmered behind them in the golden light of dusk, Ramin got down on one knee and asked her to marry him.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Laura found her dream dress at Brooke’s Bridal & Ball, surrounded by the most important women in her life. It was a magical moment when she slipped into a champagne and ivory slim fit-and-flare gown by Martin Thornburg that instantly brought tears to her eyes. The emotion said it all—she knew without a doubt it was the one.
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Laura’s bridesmaids wore shiny satin white dresses from Birdy Grey

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Ramin and his groomsmen wore classic black tuxedos from The Black Tux.[/field]
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Laura and Ramin made sure the food and drinks reflected both their personalities and their shared story. Cocktail hour began with The Griffin—a spicy jalapeño pineapple mezcal margarita named after their beloved dog, displayed on a sign featuring custom artwork by their day-of wedding artist, Ashley Triggiano. It was bold, unexpected, and full of flavor—just like them. Dinner and hors d’oeuvres, catered in partnership by Caspian House of Kabob and Get Plated DC, paid tribute to Ramin’s Persian roots. Guests enjoyed a curated buffet of Iranian classics including Shirin Polo ba Morgh (sweet saffron rice with chicken), Baghali Polo ba Mahi (dill and fava bean rice with fish), Ghormeh Sabzi (a rich herb stew), Joojeh Kabob, Koobideh Kabob, and Salad Shirazi. Every dish told a story—of tradition, hospitality, and love. To end the evening on a sweet (and stylish) note, guests were treated to a chic affogato station, complete with espresso martinis à la mode—a stylish twist on a classic, and a playful nod to the bride’s own espresso martini toast in the getting ready suite earlier that day.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The floral design by LéRoy French Flowers brought vibrant energy to the timeless setting. Saturated pinks bloomed throughout the arrangements, softening the stately backdrop of Anderson House with romantic texture and color. A lush mix of roses, butterfly ranunculus, calla lilies, and lisianthus created a look that was both modern and classic, infusing the space with warmth and whimsy.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The wedding cake was a chic, two-tiered confection adorned with a soft, romantic blush bow that echoed the day’s aesthetic. Dainty floral patterns cascaded down each side, creating an effortlessly elegant focal point on the dessert table. Surrounded by candlelight that glowed from candles with bow touches, the cake felt like an extension of the wedding vision—refined, romantic, and timeless.[/field]
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The ceremony blended tradition with personal expression. Christina Thomas, a live harpist from Richmond, VA, played soft, melodic notes that floated through the venue, setting the tone for an emotional and elegant vow exchange. The music created a dreamy atmosphere, elevating the moment while offering guests a glimpse into Laura and Ramin’s love story.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]A live painter, Kate Scriver, captured the ceremony as it unfolded—translating emotion to canvas in real time. Guests were enchanted as the artwork came to life before their eyes, and the couple now has a treasured heirloom that holds the spirit of the day.
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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]While their wedding embraced design-forward trends like vibrant florals and romantic bows, the overall ambiance remained timeless. Tables were set with fine china, taper candles, and gold-toned flatware, creating a feeling of understated luxury. Every element was curated with care, making the evening feel intimate, elegant, and entirely their own.
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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]One of the sweetest moments of Laura and Ramin’s day was sharing their first look with a very special guest: their dog, Griffin. The couple knew from the start that their adorable hound had to be part of the celebration, and thanks to the incredible dog concierge team at Furever & Fur Always, Griffin was picture-perfect and proudly present for the emotional reveal in front of the venue.[/field]
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A Timeless Coastal Wedding With a Clear-Top Tent That Felt Like Dancing in the Sky

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Alexis and Porter’s wedding colors were blue and white, with green accents complimenting the flowers.

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Alexis and Porter wanted the overall vibe to be clean and timeless. Alexis drew inspiration for the design from the apartment she and Porter lived in while they were engaged in Nashville, before moving to Vero Beach. Their high-rise apartment had floor-to-ceiling windows that offered stunning views of the rolling hills, and Alexis loved how open and airy it felt–almost like being outdoors, basking in the sun, even though they were 23 floors up! When it came time to plan the wedding, she wanted the tent at John’s Island Beach Club to capture that same light, open, and airy vibe, while complementing the breathtaking ocean views and the resort-style pool area. She envisioned a space that felt like dancing under the stars all night long. It was a no-brainer to use a clear top tent to bring that vision to life.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]Porter planned an entire weekend getaway in Napa Valley for him and Alexis, with the perfect setting for his proposal at Stags’ Leap Winery. Their shared love of wine and travel made it an ideal location for such a meaningful moment. Though Porter wasn’t the best at keeping secrets, so Alexis knew months in advance that the proposal was coming that day, he still went above and beyond to make sure the moment was extra special.[/field]
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Alexis had a clear vision of what she wanted for her wedding dress: a satin-like fabric, a classic and simple silhouette with structure, and little to no embellishments. Her dress journey started with a fun and memorable trip to New York City in September. She and her best friend Dani, both newly engaged, reunited with their former NYC roommates for a weekend of dress shopping. The experience helped her narrow down her preferences in a way she hadn’t expected–she discovered she loved an A-line shape and was surprised by how much she liked the off-the-shoulder style! In November of 2024, Alexis visited Vivienne Atelier in her hometown of Houston for the next round of shopping. It was such a special experience for her to have her mother, aunt, niece, and two of her sisters there to share in the moment. The very first dress she tried on – “Nancy” by Iveary – was an instant favorite. It was clear to everyone in the room that this was the one. Alexis quickly canceled her next appointment and went to celebrate finding the one! As her second dress, Alexis wanted to be able to dance the night away, so she chose a short, silky white dress from Galvan London that tied around the neck to change into after the reception formalities took place.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Alexis made her bridesmaids her “something blue” for the wedding by giving them a few simple guidelines and letting them choose their own blue dresses – a mix of solids and patterns in different hues. The only non-negotiable was that they be comfortable enough to dance the night away! With a small bridal party consisting of family and one of her best friends, just five people in total, Alexis also had a “house party.” A few of her closest girlfriends, dressed in blue, arrived early to take photos and enjoy the moment together before the ceremony. Alexis mentioned that it was incredibly special to capture those portraits and share such a meaningful time with them before the big day officially began.
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For Alexis and Porter, the bar menu was a fun way to call back to their history and important moments they’ve shared. For the reception dinner wine, they handpicked a Chardonnay and a Cabernet Sauvignon from Stags’ leap Winery, where they got engaged. For one of the Signature Cocktails, we had the Rubber Ducky, a cocktail from Elm City Social, the bar in New Haven, CT where they went on their first date.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]While studying in Austin, TX, Alexis worked for a wedding planner, and the first wedding she assisted with left a lasting impression. The event featured stunning all-white centerpieces and florals, which Alexis found to be timeless and elegant. From that moment on, she knew she wanted a similar look for her own wedding. Hutchinson’s Floral Artistry helped turn her vision into reality, designing a beautiful floral chandelier above the dance floor, along with arrangements across the reception stage and around the ceremony by the ocean. At the last minute, Alexis decided to elevate the design by having the dance floor wrapped in a custom pattern from Lewes Lettering Co, coordinated with the wedding stationery. It added a bold, visually impactful element to the tent that truly stood out.

Instead of a traditional guest book, Alexis and Porter had guests sign an empty 9L bottle of wine, which they drank at a more intimate rehearsal dinner two days before the wedding. They plan to send back the bottle to Sonoma to get refilled and age the wine for years, display it in their home and enjoy it on a future anniversary!

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Alexis and Porter served a John’s Island classic — Carrot cake with raisins and walnuts — for their wedding cake with alternating tiers of smooth and waved frosting.

[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]Two close friends of Alexis and Porter, who also happen to be the couple that introduced them, gave special readings during the ceremony. One read the timeless passage from 1 Corinthians 13:4, while the other shared an excerpt from Les Misérables, a meaningful choice as the couple lives in Paris and the reading held special significance for them all.

As a shared hobby, Alexis and Porter started taking dance lessons at Arthur Murray after they got engaged, which became a big part of their lives – so much so, that they decided to do not one, but two choreographed dances – a surprise to all of their guests! Their first dance was a foxtrot to Frank Sinatra’s The Way You Look Tonight, and their second dance was a swing number to Stevie Wonder’s Signed Sealed Delivered. At the after party, guests even asked for an encore of their first dance, and everyone joined in and danced with them at the end!

Later in the evening, the dance floor lit up with a nod to Alexis’s Texas roots. She grew up line dancing and knew many of her friends had too, so she asked the band to play Footloose. The crowd went wild watching Alexis and Porter show off their impressively in-sync moves — it was a definite highlight of the evening![/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

After Alexis’ father passed away in 2021, her mother had his wedding band transformed into a necklace pendant, featuring an infinity symbol in the center, crafted by jewelry artist Lindsey Scoggins. To honor his memory, they incorporated the pendant into Alexis’ wedding bouquet, so he could be there with both Alexis and her mom as they walked down the aisle. Alexis shared, “I knew he was with us, of course, but holding his wedding ring in my hand as I walked down the aisle was so important to me.”

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Alexis and Porter chose to read their own vows — something that was actually Porter’s idea, much to Alexis’s surprise! Alexis has always loved the vows and speeches at weddings because they offer a glimpse into the more personal sides of a relationship – things that often don’t come up in everyday conversation. She said she loved getting to share their own vows with everyone, giving a deeper look into their story and the reasons they had all gathered to celebrate that day. Although they didn’t read each other’s vows beforehand, their words ended up mirroring each other in many sweet and unexpected ways, even mentioning the same memories. Needless to say, there wasn’t a dry eye in sight!

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]Porter’s family surprised the couple with a live painter, Russ Kramer at the reception. He made the most beautiful painting of their first dance, which was so special to them because they worked so hard on the choreography! It was a hit with all the guests, they loved seeing the painting come together through the reception, and now Alexis and Porter plan to hang it in their home for years to come!
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A Rambling English Garden Aesthetic With Mossy Textures and Trailing Greens

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Greens and whites with hints of blue[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Overall theme was English country garden vibes- moss covered rocks and roots, loose ivy, trailing greens and imperfect rambling florals.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]The Catered Affair specializes in food and service and the local cuisine paired with exceptional hospitality made for an unforgettable night for guests. [/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The focus for florals and decor was earthy textures and tones and an organic aesthetic.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The couple brought in a favorite ice cream from the Bride’s college town to enjoy for dessert with guests.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]The bar was an incredible installation from The Traveling Flower Ladies with many earthy elements. This lush botanical bar installation is a striking example of refined, organic elegance—an unforgettable focal point of the wedding weekend. Nestled beneath a canopy of dappled light and crisp sailcloth, the bar’s sleek, modern silhouette was softened by an artful layering of potted greenery and trailing botanicals.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]The seating chart, created by the Groom’s father, was comprised of various potted plants and herbs and seamlessly tied into the garden design.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

Hotel Viking

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Cora Jane Photography

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A Boutique Hotel Joaquin Wedding Weekend Designed for Connection and Ease

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

For wedding day colors, we went with soft neutrals accented by deep purple to add dimension and uniqueness. We wanted it to feel romantic with a bit of edge and enough texture and personal touches to feel unique and surprising.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

We wanted to create an intimate yet elevated experience in one of our favorite cities over a long weekend. Hotel Joaquin was perfect with its unique design and ability to host all of our guests, so we could be able to hang out and enjoy the celebration with them truly.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Kevin proposed on the Bordeaux leg of a Euro trip to Mallorca, Bordeaux, and London. We each picked days we would plan itineraries for, so it wasn’t suspicious to me when he had a plan for the day. He had a driver pick us up from our hotel to take us on a private tour around Saint-Emilion and its wineries. Our last stop was a beautiful Chateau that, to my surprise, Kevin had rented out for the day. I thought it was all part of our private tour, but after we did a wine tasting, we wandered off to explore the vineyard on our own – it was there in the middle of the grapevines that Kevin got down on one knee. After I said yes, we went back to the main house, where they had prepared a celebratory picnic for us. We returned to downtown Bordeaux that night for rooftop champagne followed by dinner at Son’ to continue the celebrations.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

Rowan dress by Rivini and Bordeaux lace jacket by Verdin purchased from Bridals by Lori in Atlanta, my hometown. I saw the jacket first and knew I wanted to find a way to wear it – I fell in love with the beaded detail and uniqueness of the piece. The dress was the first one I tried on – I went to 3 stores and tried on multiple dresses, but ultimately came back to this one. I loved the balance of chic and classic and the combo of a fitted silhouette with a dramatic train. The dress/jacket combo allowed me to achieve two different looks on ceremony day – I wore the jacket during the ceremony and cocktail hour, and removed it + changed my hair for the reception.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

MIHO catered all of our food on the wedding day, including passed apps at cocktail hour and a mix of family-style dishes and entrees served French style for the dinner reception. The menu was a mix of some of our favorite Mediterranean and Asian-fusion flavors and dishes. Drinks and cocktails were curated by the Hotel Joaquin food & bev team. We also had personalized cookies from a local Bakery – Buni’s Bakery – that guests could take for the road from our reception at Hotel Joaquin to our after-party in downtown Laguna..

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Vintage Lambeth style 3-layer by Cakes by Frances

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

We had a string duo from Sunset Strings play music by the Beatles, Elvis, and Ray LaMontagne.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

1. Reciting the vows we wrote for each other (even though I could barely hold back my tears enough to get through mine!).

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

2. Welcoming all of our friends & family on night one at our welcome party.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]
3. Making our grand entrance and kicking off the after party with our guests and amazing band at Marine Room Tavern in downtown Laguna[/field]
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These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

Found Rental Co.

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Natalie Bray Studios

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A Charlottesville Love Story Colored by Blue Ridge Sunsets

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Navy, lighter blues and yellow[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Having met each other at school in Charlottesville, Virginia, we got to enjoy the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of the Shenandoah National Park together. We also shared many incredible sunsets in our time together in Charlottesville. This helped inspire the range of blues and yellows that we used throughout the event.

[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]Coco is a runner and decided to run the St. Louis marathon – which is Willie’s hometown. He popped the question at the end of the race, much to her surprise.[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]We wanted the menu to keep guests going all night long. Guests were greeted with Aperol spritzes and Mount Ida sparkling wine to keep them cool pre-ceremony. After the ceremony a variety of bites were passed during cocktail hour paired with the couples signature cocktails a ranch water for the groom and a cider cocktail for our cider loving bride. A fun twist is you could add a kick to your ranch water by asking for it “Willie style”. Summer in Charlottesville was celebrated using local ingredients for a family style dinner. After dinner guests kept the dance floor full and we refueled them with ham biscuits (Charlottesville’s signature dish) and fried ravioli (a nod to the grooms St. Louis background).[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The mountains were the most important part of view and showed up in everything from our save the dates, invitations, cake, to how we structured the ceremony florals. Leaving the flowers to lead guests eye towards the mountains with a lush ombre aisle and a gorgeous grounded arch.

Our day of paper celebrated talavera style designs with blue patterns and talavera tile table numbers.

In the reception tent layered whites, ivories, yellows and blues shown under the sailcloth tent. A gorgeous blue glass charger from BBJ added a fun pop to the tabletop.
As the sunset the tent ceiling of twinkle lights started to glow providing the perfect ambiance for dancing. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Cakes by Rachel provided our cake and the white on white cake continued our mountain theme with the representation of the blue ridge mountains adorning the bottom tier.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

Ceremony music was carefully selected by the bride using a mix of strings and recorded music. The recessional was exceptionally well timed with lyrics by Chance the rapper. Landslide- groom, grandparent and moms entry (live) Cowboy Take Me Away – the chicks – bridal party (live) Enchanted Taylor Swift- bridal party (live) Love you for a long time- Maggie Rogers -bride (recorded) Recessional- Holy start at 3:06 (recorded) Ohh La La – Faces (recorded) The band was incredible and kept the dance floor rocking all night long. The bride and groom shared their first dance a mashup the band learned. The groom and his mom danced to Proud Mary, it was such a fun and high energy mother son dance.

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]We did a welcome party structured to have seated appetizers and toasts for an intimate group at Potters cider with stunning tablescapes by Tupelo florals. After that the rest of the guests joined for an incredible stationed welcome party with fun nods to the couples favorite things. We had a signature drink recreated from a trip they had recently taken in the tropics that included ginger beer and pineapple. The venue Potters cider was a nod to the bride’s love of cider. We also had a bluegrass band, as well as a tarot card reader and a magician to keep guests entertained. It was a fantastic event that allowed the bride and groom to soak in time with all of their guests before the big day. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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5 Ways Greenery Can Step Up Your Wedding Design

If there’s one thing wedding planners, Francie and Britt of 42 North know, it’s how to deck out an event in gorgeous, fresh greens. They’re stopping by to share a few of reasons every bride should consider infusing greenery into their design plus insider advice to pull it off with ease.

Enhance Your Venue

Using greenery helps the wedding to feel like it belongs wherever it is and helps it to blend into the landscape while also feeling festive and elegant.

Neutralize a Color Palette

A lot of brides tell us at the beginning of the design process that all their friends are asking them “what are your colors?” We wholeheartedly disagree with this way of thinking! You shouldn’t limit yourself to two or three colors when planning your wedding, rather there should be an entire palette that inspires your vision. Greenery helps neutralize and bring together your other colors without any one color overpowering the aesthetic. It’s the tie between all the other decor elements happening in the room, tent, garden, and more.

Create Interest + Movement

Blooms are beautiful, of course, but greens create movement in a way that’s difficult to achieve with flowers.

Get the Effortless, Organic Vibe

Weddings are trending towards elegant and Tuscan-inspired designs with free-flowing florals, using a ton of greenery with an otherwise neutral palette which creates an al fresco vibe wherever you may be!

Complement the Scenery

For outdoor cocktail hours, consider utilizing the great outdoors – weaving your unique floral collection into the branches of live trees, or using greenery from the surroundings to bring softness to the bar setup.

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Photography: Shannen Natasha of The Wedding Artists Collective | Event Planning: 42 North | Catering: Chive Sustainable Events | Floral Design: Dana Markos | Calligraphy: Posh and Prep

A Villa Garden Wedding That Felt Like a Cherished Dinner Party by the Sea

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]white, emerald green, and soft blush pink[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The design, ambiance, and concept for our wedding were inspired by the charm of an intimate dinner party or a sophisticated house party, surrounded by our dearest friends and family. We chose to exchange our vows in the villa’s garden, with a breathtaking view of the sea, creating an atmosphere of personal warmth and elegance. We aimed to maintain the intimacy of a cherished family reunion while seamlessly incorporating all the traditional elements of a wedding.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

From a young age, I had dreamed of visiting Italy, envisioning its enchanting cities and romantic landscapes. After years of researching, planning, and immersing myself in photos, videos, and blogs about this dream destination, we finally made it a reality with a two-week journey through Italy’s most captivating towns. We began in the serene beauty of Lake Como, then ventured to Milan, Sardinia, Positano, Capri, and concluded our trip in Rome. As a meticulous traveler, I had planned each day with precision, mapping out activities and dining experiences to make the most of our time. Upon arriving in Lake Como, our itinerary included a scenic tour of the lake on a classic wooden boat and a day of exploring the region’s most exquisite villas. However, our boat tour was unexpectedly canceled. In a bid to salvage the day, the boat company suggested we head to Varenna to find an alternative. When we arrived in Varenna, its charm took our breath away. It was so enchanting that I suggested we forgo our planned itinerary and spend the day exploring this beautiful town. To my surprise, Colby was unusually resistant to this change, which led to a gentle debate. Eventually, I agreed to stick to our original plans, albeit reluctantly. The next morning, Colby dressed in exceptionally smart attire for the day. Despite my concerns that he might be uncomfortable, he assured me he was fine, staying true to his usual determined nature. We returned to Varenna, where we toured a stunning villa. As we admired the view, Colby suggested we take a selfie. As we posed for the photo, he began to speak about our relationship and how surreal it felt to be in Lake Como with the love of his life. Before I could fully grasp the moment, he got down on one knee and proposed. To my astonishment, he had arranged for a photographer to discreetly capture the proposal, blending in as a tourist so we could enjoy the moment privately. The rest of the day unfolded beautifully, with us meandering through Varenna’s quaint streets, savoring delicious food, and toasting to our future. It was a day that perfectly mirrored the romance and magic we had always dreamed of.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Dress: Netta BenShabu
Shoes: Valentino
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We’re passionate foodies who often plan our vacations around exceptional culinary experiences, particularly Michelin-starred restaurants. For our wedding, we wanted to recreate that Michelin-starred dining experience, complete with a multi-course menu and craft cocktails, as if you were at a fine dining restaurant. During the cocktail hour, we served a selection of exquisite tray-passed hors d’oeuvres, including: Sicilian aubergine croquettes with yogurt and mint sauce, Breaded potato cubes with sweet chili sauce, Calzoncello pies with tomato and mozzarella, Hazelnut cookies with porcini mushrooms, lemon, and Parmesan, Savory tarts with zucchini, Scapece style, Crispy lasagna, featuring puffed pasta chips with Bolognese ragout and Parmesan mousse. For dinner, we delighted our guests with a refined four-course meal. The experience began with an appetizer trio of exquisite bite-sized creations. This was followed by a delectable Gessetti pasta paired with yellow scarpiello. For the main course, guests could choose between succulent amberjack with celery gel, lovage emulsion, and tomato confit, or a Beef cheek with papaccelle puree, parsley oil and purple potatoes.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Our moodboard for the florals and decor embraced a theme of timeless elegance, designed to enhance rather than overshadow the inherent beauty of the villa and its picturesque village surroundings. Given the villa’s and town’s existing vibrant charm, we opted for a subtle approach, focusing on a refined palette that complemented the natural splendor without competing with it. Our goal was to allow the villa’s exquisite character and the village’s colorful backdrop to remain the focal points, highlighting their beauty through understated and harmonious decor.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

To cap off the evening, we served a classic Italian millefoglie, bringing a touch of tradition and elegance to the finale.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

We both agree that our first look was truly unforgettable. It was the one precious time during the entire wedding week when it was just the two of us, allowing us to fully embrace the moment and take in the beauty surrounding us. In that intimate space, we cried, laughed, hugged, and kissed, creating a memory that is everything we could have hoped for and more. I will cherish that moment forever.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Beyond the first look, walking onto the boat for our welcome party and down the aisle are two other moments etched deeply in my memory. Each of these moments made me feel incredibly loved and special, filling me with such a sense of fulfillment and happiness.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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A Glacial Romance of Icy Blues, Gold Accents, and Playful Personal Touches

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]crisp white, icy blue, navy, soft sky blue[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The weekend was inspired by a theme the couple called Glacial Romance — a poetic blend of soft winter tones and crisp, modern elegance. Blue, the bride’s favorite color, shaped the palette, while the groom’s love for penguins added a playful, unexpected layer. The design played with contrasts: icy tones and warm golds, dramatic silhouettes and delicate details. From mirrored surfaces to ombré floral transitions, every element was curated to feel both luxurious and deeply personal.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]The bride wore a refined gown by Berta, featuring delicate off-shoulder straps and a sleek, fitted silhouette. Subtle embellishments caught the light beautifully, adding a soft touch of sparkle that felt both modern and romantic.[/field]
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Cocktail hour was anything but ordinary: blue-and-white signature drinks were served by performers dressed as living penguins, adding a theatrical twist to the celebration. The dinner that followed was held in the hotel’s royal hall, where guests dined at golden tables arranged in the shape of infinity symbols — a poetic nod to timeless love.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The ceremony was staged on a mirrored aisle that shimmered like ice, transitioning from white to shades of blue. Blue hydrangeas — the bride’s favorite — took center stage, surrounded by rare and sculptural blooms. The floral design was immersive, with every petal and stem contributing to the glacial yet romantic atmosphere. For the dinner inside the villa’s royal hall, the floral styling shifted to a warmer, more intimate atmosphere. Candlelight softened the space, while elegant arrangements complemented the golden accents of the historic room, bringing cohesion to the day’s bold and romantic vision.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The wedding cake was a millefoglie – a classic Italian layered dessert that added a simple yet elegant finish to the celebration.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]The celebration kicked off with an unforgettable pre-wedding boat party aboard the stunning Concordia, where guests sipped vibrant spritzes and snacked on a colorful spread in shades of fuchsia and orange. A live mozzarella maestro prepared fresh cheese on the spot — a joyful start to the weekend.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

One of the most memorable features was the central island during cocktail hour, transformed into a mini penguin habitat — complete with custom blue-patterned linens and live performers. Another standout: the electric violin performance by Victor Angelov, who opened dinner with That’s Amore, accompanied by opera singers. It was theatrical, unexpected, and utterly unforgettable.

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

Petit Bouquet

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A Soft Blue and Sage Napa Celebration of Warmth and Quiet Luxury at the Four Seasons

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”][/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Soft, delicate blues and cream, with sage green accents were chosen as complementary colors to the venue’s luxurious and neutral facade and picturesque views of the Napa Valley. The couple desired a warm, welcoming atmosphere with a touch of elegance and luxury — they were married at the Four Seasons, after all!

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Blair Bosshardt and Ben Caldwell live in D.C. and got engaged at the Poetry Inn Napa Valley in January 2024, before going skiing at Lake Tahoe (hence the escort display with the little ski gondolas).

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Blair chose an elegant silk dress designed by Martina Liana, from a bridal boutique in Washington, DC. The elegant draped neckline with pearls and cinched bodice fit her perfectly! She accessorized with her Something Blue heels from Manolo Blahnik.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

Blair’s ladies each chose their own blue dress — she wanted them to feel beautiful and comfortable on her wedding day! A mixture of solid and floral prints and shades ranging from sky blue to dusty blue harmonized together.

[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Ben and his groomsmen sported classic black tuxedos from Hive and Colony. Ben’s tux was custom made and included a special liner of wine bottles as a nod to their wedding location in Napa Valley![/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

Food and Drink was especially important to the couple and the Four Seasons exceeded expectations. Wine played a prominent role throughout the wedding day, from the symbolic wine pour during the ceremony, guests signing wine bottles as the guest book and the couple entered the reception with magnum champagne bottles that they popped and then poured into guests’ glasses! Guests dined on Farmer’s Market Salad with local ingredients, Beef Short Rib and Carrot Cake was served for dessert. Each course had a suggested wine pairing that guests could enjoy.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Lush blue and white florals were prominent throughout the special day. From the aisle florals lining the ceremony walk way and the stunning arch serving as a lovely focal point for the couple during their ceremony. A custom bar with their monogram was created for the cocktail hour. The al fresco reception featured beautiful blue print linens and delectable florals lining the tables. One of the most fun and personal touches included the custom gondola seating wall, as a nod to the couple’s love story and proposal! Guests loved it![/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The wedding cake was a 2 tier carrot cake with buttercream icing, that was decorated with fluffy blue hydrangeas.

[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]A string quartet with cellists and violinist provided beautiful melodic music during the ceremony and cocktail hour.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

The gondola seating wall was a nod to their engagement, where they skied in Lake Tahoe. It read “Taking Love to New Heights” and tables were favorite skiing mountains, including Jungfrau in Switzerland for the newlyweds’ table.

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]The groom surprised the bride with her beautiful beaded clutch on the wedding day. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

The beautiful watercolor invitation suite was custom designed and featured watercolors of the Napa scenery, the venue and a map of the various weekend locations.

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BBJ La Tavola

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Petit Bouquet

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Indian Warmth and Lake Como Romance Reimagined in the Virginia Hills

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Green, blush, yellow[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Indian inspo fused with a Lake Como feel. Our ideal plan was an al fresco dinner nestled in the mountains. Virginia weather in April was a little chilly for guest comfort so we enjoyed a gorgeous ceremony and cocktail hour outside and moved everyone into the reception space as the sun dipped behind the mountains. Guests were then invited into the reception space for an Indian inspired family style feast and a dance floor that didn’t stop.

[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]He proposed in DC in December 2023 and surprised her with the proposal, a photographer, and their families who all came in from PA (His) and upstate NY (hers).[/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

Keirstin had the best of both worlds with a gorgeous custom lehengas that matched the groom’s attire. Even their dog Marty had a custom fit from the same Indian designer. Her western gown was simple and stunning!

[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Bridal party wore assorted lehengas that coordinated with the brides! It was fun to be in the bridal ready room as all the Aunts of the groom helped the ladies into their outfits. [/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”][/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

We worked with the catering outfit on a custom menu with an indian appetizer station, passed bites, an indian inspired family style meal complete with custom desserts that paid homage to the groom’s indian heritage and the brides italian background. Their dog Marty “hosted the bar” with a Mar’s Bar sign!

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The table linens inspired the invitation with a repetitive pattern similar to patterns used for traditional attire. That linen pattern then repeated on our invitation suite with a blind deboss into the main invitation.
The florals were stunning with a drippy mandap, a beautifully floraled swing, and stunning tables with florals and fruit draped down the table.
[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

We had a small cake for a cake cutting moment but the desserts were the star of the show! The Catering Outfit provided Mini Cannolis and Gulab Jamun!

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Throughout their relationship, swings have been ever-present and hold a lot of significant memories for Keirstin and Shiv. They commissioned a swing to ensure that there would be a swing at their wedding![/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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BBJ La Tavola

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An Elevated Castle Garden Ceremony and Modern Orangery Reception Tied by All-Hue Florals

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

The couples vision was to achieve a sleek, contemporary design predominantly in black and white, accentuated by colorful flowers in muted, dusty tones.

[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

We didn’t limit the color palette for the florals as we wanted to include all shades. The ceremony exuded a modern, elevated garden ambiance, set against the picturesque backdrop of a Scottish garden and its stunning castle. The reception, held in the Orangery, embraced a predominantly modern aesthetic. The floral arrangements seamlessly tied the entire event together.

[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]On a road trip to the Grand Tetons with our friends, Brandon proposed on a mountainside while my favorite song played in the background. That song was also the song I walked down the aisle to during our ceremony.[/field]
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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]The Brides gown was a modern Sarah Seven design with an asymmetrical neckline. Although I had a reception dress, I loved my wedding dress so much that I didn’t change into my second dress until just before the last song. My second dress was also a Sarah Seven but was short and tweed, which seemed fitting in Scotland.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

All of the bridesmaids had completely different dresses in both style and color. I didn’t want to limit them to standard “bridesmaid dresses” and suggested they just look for dresses they liked in the four different colors I chose. Their floral bouquets were all different and were created especially to complement each bridesmaid dress individually.

[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The men wore matching tuxes but all had unique Hermes pocket squares borrowed from our dear friends.[/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]

Our food was provided by the amazing team at Carlowrie Castle. We knew we absolutely wanted beef wellington for the wedding dinner and shepherd’s pie for the rehearsal dinner – two of our all time favorite dishes – and the chef made it happen. We hired a mixologist from Pure Bartending to replicate some of our favorite cocktails and then we named them ourselves. The cocktail that represented me was a drink that my dad makes for me and we called it “The Pretty Pretty Princess.” For Brandon’s cocktail, we named it the “Double B” as a nod to his name. Our final cocktail was a representation of both of us and we named it after our dog, Kip! We also had stir sticks in all of the cocktails that were renderings of Kip in acrylic.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Some of our favorite decor elements were the design of the signage and paper goods. In tribute to our love of reading, we commissioned a large bookshelf in place of a traditional seating chart. Each guest had a personalized book on the shelf, complete with their table number. The bookshelf was elegantly adorned with florals and candles. The rest of our signage featured various shapes and textures, maintaining an ultra-modern and unique aesthetic. My grandmother’s embroidery of our wedding logo on all the velvet napkins added a beautifully personal touch to our tablescape which featured amazing, garden-style florals and textured candles.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Instead of a traditional wedding cake, we opted for sticky toffee pudding, one of my favorite desserts popular in the UK. Since there was no cake to cut, we did a champagne tower to kick off the toasts following the serving of the sticky toffee pudding.

[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]As guests arrived, a traditional piper played the bagpipes. We thought this was a fun way to welcome everyone to this magnificent castle in the Scottish countryside. Brandon’s parents brought one of his late grandfather’s guitars all the way to Scotland so that our friend Kevin (and husband of one of the bridesmaids!) could play the acoustic guitar as the wedding party walked down the aisle. I walked down the aisle to a live acoustic recording of Mumford and Son’s Rose of Sharon, my favorite song which Brandon also played as he proposed.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Given the brides family’s Scottish heritage, Alex’s dad and grandpa wore their family tartan. One wore the clan tartan and the other wore the clan’s hunting tartan.

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Instead of a traditional welcome table, we hosted a photo table inside the castle. Our parents and grandparent’s wedding photos were displayed here in Tiffany frames. We then gifted these to our families afterward as a keepsake.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

Since we couldn’t bring our dog Kip all the way to Scotland to be a part of our wedding, we named a cocktail after him and had acrylic stir sticks made in his likeness. People loved them so much they took them home with them!

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Leigh Rice Design & Flower Co.

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Former MLB Star Luke Farrell Marries Bay Area Anchor Rachael Maurer in Stunning Malibu Wedding

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Lush greenery base, white, ivory, blush and neutral with small wispy pops of yellow and blue. Very pale hints of any color used.

[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Elegant garden party. [/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”][/field]
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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

The wedding gown was a fitted Galia Lahav dress with a lace overskirt. The dress had whimsical and romantic lace detail with a corset top and a matching blusher veil.

[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The bridesmaids wore mis matching colors and textures within the overall palette. Ruffles, patterns, silk, lace were all included in the assorted dresses.

[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The groomsmen all wore black tuxedos. [/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

Cocktail hour featured passed apps including; Garlic Infused Baby Lamb Chop, Ahi Tuna Tartare, Hamachi Crudo and a crostini with whipped ricotta, fig and honey. Dinner featured a plated meal with a Squash & Burrata salad, NY Steak or Seared Sea Bass with a side of potatoes and broccolini. Signature cocktails were Classic Negroni with Hendrix and a Watermelon Mezcal Marg.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The bridal bouquet was a small baby’s breath arrangement and the bridesmaids bouquets were very light pastel colored to match the color palette. The ceremony backdrop was a lush greenery and floral arch. The aisle had garden arrangements lining the entire aisle way to look as if they were growing out of the ground. The reception was set up in long king style tables with lush greenery and heavy candles down the tables for a very romantic ambience. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

3 tier vintage wedding cake, two layers vanilla, one chocolate. with vanilla frosting.

[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]The bride walked down the aisle to Ordinary (Wedding Version) by Alex Warren. The couple’s first dance was to Give It All We Got by George Strait. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

The guest seating chart was custom embroidered into lace material.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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Lucky Devils Band

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Petit Bouquet

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A Bi-Coastal Romance Celebrated in the Hillsides of Napa

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Black, white, and gold[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Allen and Shante brought their East Coast and West Coast roots together for one unforgettable wedding night in the picturesque setting of Napa, California. The Meritage Resort set the tone with its serene, elegant atmosphere, nestled among sun-soaked vineyards and rolling hillside views.

[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]Allen and Shante met in 2011, thanks to Allen’s best friend, Greg. Allen was visiting the Bay Area with his youth basketball team for a championship game when Greg, who knew Shante and her cousin, asked if they could show Allen around San Francisco. Shante remembers pushing back on the idea of playing tour guide for a stranger, but eventually agreed. After that visit, Allen and Shante became “sports friends,” keeping in touch over the years with the occasional call or text to talk trash about each other’s teams. This playful back-and-forth continued until Allen began developing feelings for Shante. By 2016, the two were officially dating. Shante moved to Los Angeles, and not long after, they discovered they were expecting a baby. Their love story began to unfold alongside the start of their growing family, and a few years later, Allen proposed on Christmas Eve.[/field]
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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

Shante stunned in a strapless dress from Flare’s, which she paired with a dramatic overskirt for the ceremony.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”][/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”][/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

Dinner options for guests included braised short rib, pan-seared California bass, and stuffed portabella.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]A black aisle runner, monogrammed with the couple’s initials, led to a gazebo adorned with clouds of baby’s breath. A washed-out palette of ivory florals melted seamlessly into the natural surroundings, creating a refined yet understated elegance, while the wedding party’s black and white attire added a classic contrast. Dinner was held inside the Estate Cave, with its unique barrel-vaulted ceiling for a romantic and glamorous setting. Long tables dressed in golden decor offered an intimate dining experience, infused with the kind of Napa Valley charm that made the evening feel magical.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The couple rounded off the night by cutting into their two-tiered, floral wedding cake, which guests enjoyed with an array of delectable treats from their dessert table.

[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]The ceremony, officiated by a close family friend, felt deeply personal and heartfelt. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Touches of family creativity were woven throughout the day: Shante’s cousin designed the name cards, while another cousin crafted a spiraling floral installation and selfie mirror for guests to enjoy.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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Apollo Fotografie

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Petit Bouquet

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A Lamp-Lit Garden Celebration Blending Playful Charm and Modern Refinement

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

The wedding palette was a joyful blend of romantic pastels and saturated garden hues, featuring blush pinks, soft peaches, dusty lilacs, and vibrant pops of raspberry and coral. The bridesmaids wore a mix of colorful gowns in dreamy shades of blue, green, and lavender, adding a modern, editorial flair. Paired with textured florals and whimsical chamomile accents, the overall color story felt fresh, expressive, and full of personality—perfectly reflecting the couple’s vibrant energy.

[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The overall design leaned into an elevated garden party aesthetic—effortlessly romantic with playful, modern touches. Tables were set with charming lamp-lit centerpieces, creating an intimate glow as the sun set. A custom floral dance floor served as a stunning focal point, blending beautifully with the lush blooms and natural surroundings. Every detail felt intentional yet relaxed, striking that perfect balance between whimsical charm and editorial sophistication.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”][/field]
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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

The bride wore a romantic off-the-shoulder gown with soft pleating and a full, textured skirt that moved beautifully with every step. A modern wrap neckline added a touch of sophistication, perfectly complementing her classic bob and radiant smile. The look was timeless yet fresh—effortless elegance with just the right amount of drama.

[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bridesmaids wore a joyful mix of dresses in a range of pastel and jewel-toned hues—think soft blue, lavender, blush, and leafy green. Each dress had its own silhouette and texture, creating a perfectly un-matched look that felt playful, modern, and effortlessly cohesive. Their colorful styles added to the garden party feel and reflected the couple’s fun, personality-filled approach to the day.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

The groomsmen kept it timeless in classic black tie, bringing a touch of formal elegance that perfectly balanced the playful garden party aesthetic. Their sharp, tailored looks added a sophisticated edge to the day’s otherwise whimsical vibe.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Guests were treated to a fun and flavorful menu by Tim the Girl Catering, featuring comfort food favorites elevated with care and creativity. Think juicy, made-from-scratch burgers, crispy golden fries, and creamy mac and cheese—each dish crafted in-house with bold flavor and heart. It was the perfect laid-back, crowd-pleasing spread for a celebration full of joy. [/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The florals were a vibrant celebration of spring—lush, romantic, and full of personality. Ranunculus, garden roses, and delicate chamomile blooms took center stage, creating a playful mix of texture and color. The arrangements featured a palette of blush, peach, soft yellow, and pops of raspberry and coral, echoing the joyful energy of the day. From the bride’s bouquet to the custom floral dance floor, every bloom felt intentionally placed to enhance the garden party atmosphere with fresh, whimsical charm.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The couple opted for a classic tiered wedding cake, keeping things timeless and elegant—with a playful twist. Topping it off was an adorable figurine of the bride and groom, adding a lighthearted, personal touch that perfectly reflected their fun-loving spirit.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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Brittney Welch Photography

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A Dreamlike Stroll Through Old-World Europe at Villa Le Fontanelle

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”The Inspiration”]

This shoot was all about capturing that romantic, old-world feeling you get when you’re walking through the streets of Europe—where history and beauty are woven into every corner. The vision came together through such a creative and intentional team, and being at Villa Le Fontanelle felt like stepping into a dream. From the textures to the light, every detail was designed to reflect something timeless but still deeply alive and emotive.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Warm ivory & creamy beige – soft linens, plaster walls, and paper goods

Dusty rose & muted blush – found in florals, lips, and textiles

Elegant golds & champagne – subtle metallics in details like jewelry, shoes, and décor

Earthy taupes & warm greys – table linens, shadows, and stone textures

Olive green & soft sage – tucked into florals and natural backdrops[/field]
[field title=”The Venue”]

Villa Le Fontanelle is the kind of place that instantly makes you pause—it carries a quiet grandeur, the kind that whispers stories from centuries past. Nestled in the Tuscan hills overlooking Florence, the villa is wrapped in history and romance, from its manicured Italian gardens to its sun-washed stone terraces. The architecture blends Renaissance elegance with lived-in charm, creating spaces that feel both regal and intimate. Inside, arched hallways, frescoed ceilings, and antique furnishings set the tone for timeless celebration. Every corner of the property feels like a painting—effortlessly cinematic, full of soul, and perfect for couples who want their wedding to feel like an escape into something truly magical.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]The gown by @julita_ldn_bride was a true work of art—elegant yet daring, with clean lines and sculptural draping that brought a sense of modern romance to the entire shoot. Its structured silhouette was softened by delicate details and fluid movement, creating a striking balance between timeless and fashion-forward. Every angle of the dress told a story—it felt bold and effortless all at once.

Paired with it was the most ethereal veil by @rebeccaannedesigns, adorned with soft embroidery that caught the light like whispers of poetry. It floated behind the bride like a quiet dream, adding that perfect hint of softness and soul. Together, the gown and veil were the heart of the editorial’s visual language—refined, editorial, and deeply romantic.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Party”][/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The florals by @sebastian_flowers_italy felt like poetry in bloom—loose, romantic arrangements that danced between structure and softness. The palette was rooted in warm neutrals with gentle hints of blush and muted greenery, echoing the aged beauty of the villa and the surrounding Tuscan landscape. Every floral element—from the asymmetrical ceremony installation to the hand-tied bridal bouquet—was designed with an artful eye and an organic spirit. It didn’t feel overdone; it felt felt, like nature had quietly curated the moment itself.

The decor followed that same soulful elegance. Antique-inspired rentals from @preludiodivisionenoleggio paired beautifully with natural textures—linen runners, aged brass, soft candlelight—creating a tablescape that felt as intimate as it was refined. It was all about layering depth and warmth without losing the clean, editorial aesthetic. The result was an atmosphere that invited people to linger, connect, and be moved.

I would reach out to the florist to get the exact types of florals they were since I am not an expert. [/field]
[field title=”Favorite Design Element”]

What stood out most to me was the way fashion and setting worked together so seamlessly. The softness of the veil against the weathered stone, the structured gown framed by ivy-covered archways—it felt like a love letter between old and new. That layered contrast was the heartbeat of the whole shoot.

[/field]
[field title=”Tips To Pull Off The Look”]I would reach out to the HMUA and see what their thoughts are for this. [/field]
[field title=”DIY Moments”]

This shoot was part of a larger creative experience I took part in during the Art of Luxury retreat last summer, and while each editorial offered something unique, this one stayed with me in a big way. I didn’t have a hand in the actual planning or florals, but as a photographer, it was a dream to step into a setting like this—so thoughtfully designed, so rich in texture and feeling. Everything came together so effortlessly that it made capturing it feel almost meditative. I could honestly photograph here all day, every day—Villa Le Fontanelle has that kind of magic.

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Petit Bouquet

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Diane Nicole Photography

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A Spanish-Inspired Pastel Celebration With Terracotta Warmth and Cultural Soul

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”][/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Our wedding color palette was a sophisticated blend of mature pastels in the florals, paired with warm terracotta tones and traditional Spanish-style decor. This combination created a harmonious balance between soft, romantic touches and rich, earthy elements that honored the cultural roots of our celebration. The result was an inviting, timeless atmosphere full of depth and warmth.

Our wedding was a bold and joyful celebration, bursting with color, personality, and unapologetic authenticity. Inspired by our Spanish roots and modern love story, we created a vibrant experience that blended tradition with playful design, cultural richness with contemporary flair. Every detail was intentionally us—festive, full of heart, and made to celebrate love in all its forms.

[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]

We didn’t plan to propose to each other on the same trip, and certainly not within the same 24 hours, but Paris had other plans for us. That morning, he surprised me in the gardens of Versailles with a quiet, heartfelt proposal, surrounded by history, beauty, and blooming symmetry. I was completely overwhelmed in the best way, but what he didn’t know was that I had been carrying a ring too. That night, under the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower, I asked him the very same question, unable to hold it in any longer. It turns out we had both been waiting for the perfect moment, and in true “us” fashion, we accidentally created two. One story, two proposals, and a whole lot of love.

[/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”][/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]

All food and beverage was thoughtfully curated and executed by our venue, offering a dining experience that was both elevated and deeply satisfying. Guests chose between tender short rib, perfectly seared sea bass, and a creamy, flavorful shrimp risotto—each dish beautifully plated and full of vibrant flavor. The evening began with a selection of passed hors d’oeuvres that set the tone for the night, including bite-sized bursts of seasonal ingredients and creative pairings. From the first cocktail to the final bite, every element was designed to feel luxurious yet approachable, adding to the sense of celebration and indulgence.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

For the floral design, we wanted our wedding to feel like a whimsical garden come to life—fun, vibrant, and a little bit wild. We leaned into playful textures and an abundance of colorful wildflowers that felt fresh, organic, and completely unstructured. The goal was to create an environment where our guests felt like they were stepping into a dreamlike garden, full of movement and joy, as if they were playing in a field of blooms. It was romantic without being too polished, and every arrangement was designed to feel natural, expressive, and full of personality—just like us. Floral Designer: @knotjustflowers

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Our wedding cake and desserts were crafted by the incredible Crumble Patisserie, and they truly delivered a sweet finale that guests are still talking about. The dessert table was a show-stopping display of indulgence and creativity, complete with sparklers that added a playful, celebratory touch. From delicate pastries to rich bites of cake, every treat was as beautiful as it was delicious. It wasn’t just dessert—it was an experience, and one of the most memorable moments of the night.
@crumblepatisserie[/field]
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The dessert table was a visual and culinary centerpiece, overflowing with an artful mix of confections that reflected both elegance and whimsy. Designed to wow, it featured tiered trays of delicate pastries, colorful mini cakes, and textured treats, all arranged with a stylist’s eye for detail. As sparklers lit up the display, guests gathered in awe—it felt more like a celebration moment than just dessert.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]The tablescape was nothing short of breathtaking, thoughtfully designed by my incredibly talented husband—my baby—who poured his heart into every detail. From the layered textures and vibrant florals to the curated glassware and playful color palette, each element reflected his creative vision and our shared joy. It felt like sitting inside a painting, full of warmth, personality, and intentional beauty.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

Our ceremony arch was a true showpiece, overflowing with bold, untamed florals that framed our vows like a scene from a dream. It quickly became a guest favorite and was easily the most talked-about feature of the entire day. The florals overall brought the entire celebration to life, creating a sense of magic and wonder that guests couldn’t stop raving about.

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A Modern Garden Party with Playful Patterns and a Fresh Blue-Green Palette

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Muted Teal, Light Chartreuse, Sage, Light Blue, Slate Blue, Olive Green, White, Nude[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The vision behind Elizabeth’s wedding design was playful elegance – bringing a modern twist to an elevated garden party. We took the classic blue and green palette to the next level with a pop of fresh teal, and married several underlying motifs: scallops, stripes, florals, and dots. Every element blended so harmoniously for an indescribably perfect wedding day for Elizabeth and Chase.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]Locals to Charlotte, NC, Chase invited Elizabeth to dinner and a walk through a park in uptown. Chase proposed in front of a beautiful fountain with a hidden photographer capturing the precious moments. He then surprised Elizabeth with an engagement party filled with all their closest friends and family after.[/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

Elizabeth’s gown from Angolique bridal perfectly complemented her petite figure and showcased her elegant taste. When she put on her gown as the fourth dress in the line-up, she says she “just knew” and didn’t want to try on anything else.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The light blue bridesmaids’ dresses from Bella Bridesmaids were the perfect shade of blue to complement the wedding color palette. Elizabeth also selected bridesmaids’ PJs to get ready in that perfectly matched the design of her wedding shoes with a bold green lattice design.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

Groomsmen wore slate blue suits and light blue ties to complement the wedding design and the bridesmaids’ dresses.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

From the passed espresso martinis to the custom scallop serving trays, there was never a dull moment in the food and beverage category of this event. We brought the subtle motif of Elizabeth’s save the date pattern through to the base of the serving platters and on the backs of the bar shelving in the stunning central bar of the sailcloth tent. Guests enjoyed specialty cocktails in carefully curated glassware to match the aesthetic of the event.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The most important element of the stunning sailcloth tent design was the tree installations on each sailcloth tent pole. These trees, expertly fabricated by Becca Zorn Design, brought the event ambience to the next level. BBJ La Tavola’s stunning Josephine Sage linen was the foundation of the wedding design. This linen included every single color in Elizabeth’s palette, and inspired the muted teal ecustom-painted central bar and fun pops of light chartreuse in the napkins and stationery.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Elizabeth and Chase chose to skip the traditional wedding cake and opted for delicious local ice cream from Clare’s Creamery. And the cohesive light chartreuse ice cream truck was to die for![/field]
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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

One of our favorite aspects of Elizabeth’s wedding was her curated stationery. Her custom scallop menu cards with watercolor-scripted names at the top were one of a kind. And her umbrella Lake Day invitation, combined with vibrant invitation suite elements, set the tone for the whole weekend.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Elizabeth’s head table napkin was a custom creation by the planning team combining two light chartreuse napkins, twisting them, and creating a bubble braid effect to give the appearance of scalloped edges.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]By far my favorite element of the wedding ceremony was the alternating color of Curated Events chairs in each column. This created the perfect extension of the stripe motif with an aerial view.[/field]
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These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

BBJ La Tavola

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Hamilton Events

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A Laid-Back Garden Celebration with Fresh Florals and an Atmosphere That Felt Like Home

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Madden and Davis’s wedding day was a vibrant celebration of color, with a fresh palette of lavender, chartreuse. The unexpected combination felt both playful and true to Madden’s personality, weaving through every detail from the florals to the stationery. These hues brought a garden-like charm to the celebration, perfectly reflecting the couple’s joyful, modern style.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Madden and Davis envisioned a wedding that felt laid-back and effortlessly inviting—like a weekend garden party with the people they love most. They leaned into a relaxed, open-air atmosphere filled with fresh florals, soft lighting, and meaningful touches that made it feel like home. Every detail, from the cozy lounge areas to the cocktail tables, reflected their desire for a day that was inviting and effortless.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Madden wore a striking taffeta ballgown that perfectly balanced drama and simplicity. The gown featured sculptural ruching across the bodice, adding texture and a modern twist to the classic silhouette. It was a statement piece that felt both timeless and entirely her own.
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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

Madden gave her bridesmaids the freedom to choose their own dresses, drawing inspiration from the wedding’s fresh palette of lavender, chartreuse, and green. The result was a playful mix of textures and funky patterns that felt effortlessly cool and completely cohesive. Each look reflected the individual style of her friends while adding depth and personality to the overall aesthetic.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]During the dinner hour, guests mingled freely through a roaming-style reception, sampling small plates and seasonal bites at their own pace. The relaxed format encouraged connection and conversation, perfectly in tune with the laid-back garden vibe. To top it off, Madden and Davis served a bold and zesty signature cocktail—a spicy margarita with a kick that quickly became a crowd favorite.
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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Madden and Davis wanted their reception to feel less like a formal event and more like an unforgettable party. They created a dynamic, social atmosphere with soft lounge seating mixed with communal high-top tables, inviting guests to flow freely and celebrate comfortably. Whimsical floral installations were tucked throughout the room adding bursts of color and movement that brought the whole space to life.
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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Their three-tiered wedding cake was a true showpiece—elegant yet full of charm. Covered in smooth fondant with delicate floral appliqué detailing, it echoed the garden-inspired aesthetic of the day. Each layer was as beautiful as it was delicious, blending seamlessly into the floral-forward celebration.
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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

One of the most memorable moments of the night came when Madden’s dad took the mic and surprised her mom, Jennifer, with an unexpected—and hilarious—trophy for MVP. It was his way of honoring her behind-the-scenes dedication and setting the tone for a night full of laughter and dancing. The gesture kicked off the dance floor with joy and energy, instantly bringing everyone to their feet.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Later in the evening, Davis and his college band took over the stage, turning the reception into a full-blown concert. Their set was electric—equal parts nostalgic and high-energy—as they played crowd favorites and a few original songs. It was a personal, unforgettable touch that had guests cheering, dancing, and singing along well into the night.
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