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

Rustic + Intimate Northwest Montana Wedding

Now this is a wedding that does rustic romance right. Think luxurious gold details, stunning florals from Greenwood Events and a setting that is all sorts of Montana awesome. It’s the perfect happily ever after for two sweeties who craved an intimate, tranquil affair that was all at once laid-back and elegant. (Read: They nailed it.) See it all captured beautifully by Jeremiah And Rachel Photography in THE VAULT, then press play on the sweet film from Blue Kite Cinema below.

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From the Bride... We had been together for seven years before getting married, so we knew we wanted a small wedding, but it quickly grew to be much larger than we had envisioned. Nine months before our wedding date, we decided to cancel everything and plan a destination wedding in Montana with just immediate family. We both love the outdoors and wanted to enjoy the beauty and tranquility Montana had to offer, so we booked a cabin and planned everything in less than a month.

We had nine guests total at our wedding, plus our two Labradors, Kodi and Chase. It was intimate, romantic, relaxing, and a truly beautiful day for us. We decided to get married on a Tuesday, September 15th, 2015. Everything about the day felt right to us. While everyone else was working on a typical weekday, the world stopped in our eyes and became the happiest day of our lives.

Even though we woke up next to each other and had breakfast together, our favorite moment was still seeing each other for the first time after getting ready. The photographers picked a beautiful wooded spot and it was just the two of us with our dogs. That moment was full of emotions and private for us and didn’t take away any emotions when seeing each other again at the altar, so we would definitely recommend doing a first look!

Our photographers were the first people we booked because we love the use of film and were fans of their work. They captured the most beautiful moments and film gave the photos a timeless feeling. We saw our videographers on Style Me Pretty’s Little Black Book and we thought no one else compared to their style. We couldn’t imagine not having them capture our day and we cry every time we watch the video. Plus, they are the nicest and most fun guys you’ll meet! The rest of the vendors were found through either Style Me Pretty or Instagram by having a connection with our photographers and yes, everything was planned and booked in under a month! It was the most relaxing and fun experience planning our intimate wedding versus planning the initial large wedding.

We did have a very last minute change with the ceremony venue and our officiant. We were going to have both the ceremony and reception at the cabin we were staying at but we decided last minute that it didn’t feel right for the ceremony. The day before the wedding, we decided to look at the site where we ended up having the ceremony and booked it that afternoon. We also went whitewater rafting a few days before our wedding and found out our raft guide was ordained. The day before the wedding, the person we had hired just didn’t feel like a good fit for us so we called up our raft guide and asked him to marry us! He ended up being the perfect fit and did an amazing job.

We wanted our wedding to be rustic, elegant, and relaxing with a mix of masculinity and femininity. In the décor, we used antlers, fur, and leather. Our invitations were custom using handmade paper and watercolors and had leather wrapped around them as well as our menus being leather. The bowties, groom’s tie, and best man’s suspenders were also leather. We had rabbit fur on the chairs at the reception and antlers throughout the venues.

The colors were dark brown, navy blue, forest green, and touches of gold. The flowers were subtle with various colors of cream and a variety of greens and touches of navy blue. Our florist actually clipped flowers and greenery from the woods near the cabin we stayed at to include in the bouquets and flower runner on the reception table. In honor of the late father-of-the-bride, the bouquets and boutonnieres were wrapped in gold guitar string.

For the ceremony, we had two wine barrels with flower arrangements on them and antlers and candles for the aisle. The reception was very romantic with lots of candle light and one long table with a floral table runner on the deck of the cabin overlooking a flowing creek and wooded area. We had whiskey, beef jerky, and cigars as well as crawfish, prime rib, and lobster for our reception at the cabin that everyone stayed at. One of the best parts about a small wedding is we got to have everything we wanted without worrying about cost! We also had an amazing acoustic duo play at our ceremony and dinner so we could still have a first dance even though we weren’t having a traditional reception and dance.

The one piece of advice we would give to brides and couples is DO WHAT YOU WANT! You’re going to get a lot of opinions when planning a wedding but ultimately the both of you know what is best for you as a couple. The day is truly about you and the love and commitment you are making to one another. We realized that a small wedding definitely isn’t for everyone but it was perfect for us. And even though people were disappointed that they weren’t invited, everyone seemed to understand after they saw the photos and video.

Photographer’s Intimate + Whimsical Scottish-Inspired Wedding

This is my kind of wedding. Not only are there gorgeous flowers from Bows And Arrows, a pair of killer Miu Miu shoes and a completely adorable Bride and Groom, but there are three wedding cakes—talk about a cause for celebration. And thanks to Apryl Ann Photography, we have cause for celebration, too: gorgeous photos to pore over and pin in The Vault!

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From Apryl Ann Photography…Samantha was born and raised in Scotland and is now a photographer in Dallas. She wanted to throw an intimate affair that reflected her heritage since all of her family was coming to the wedding from Scotland! The entire wedding was relaxed and full of love.

From The Bride…Inspiration came my engagement ring which was an unusual hexagon shaped diamond on white-gold – I loved the idea of geometric shapes and metallics juxtaposed with natural greenery.

I especially loved the terrarium-type hurricanes we got for the table centerpieces from Anthropologie. Our florist filled them with beautiful little succulents, tiny roses and moss. We also had a smores station next to the fire pits in the garden which could have backfired had the weather been warmer. Fortunately, it was a touch chilly in the evening so it was perfect and everyone enjoyed sitting around the fire, eating smores and drinking hot chocolate.

As I’m from Scotland, having a piper was especially important. We hired Jimmy Mitchell, who was fantastic and at the start of our day, could be heard playing amongst the trees as guests arrived. We also had a traditional quaich ceremony with my uncle George explaining to our American guests. He had brought over the traditional silver cup and sourced a whiskey that was distilled only a couple of miles from where I was born in Scotland. We shared our first drink as husband and wife from that cup; and subsequently, I think all our guests got a drink of whiskey from it throughout the night (as per tradition!)

We also opted to organize a classic ceilidh dance mid-reception, “Strip the Willow” – which was utter chaos and had everyone laughing. Another small touch was my mum organizing little Scottish shortbread hearts in bags, tied with tartan ribbon (our clan tartan!) as favors.

Another favor for guests, I made small scented travel candles from scratch, in two different scents; rosemary mint and Madagascar vanilla. I’m a bit candle-obsessed, it was the only thing I could think of that I’d like to receive at a wedding as a favor!

My advice is don’t get caught up in trying to make things ‘perfect’, definitely learn to delegate tasks and if possible, budget for a coordinator! Highly recommend it!

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Bows and Arrows

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Beautiful Destination Weddings at Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

There is saying “I do” in paradise, and then there is saying “I do” at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, a breathtaking locale that happens to be the perfect spot for your destination dream day. I’m talking 40 seriously stunning oceanfront acres, a fab list of amenities and a team of experts that know all there is to know about making you and yours sooo happy. Just ask Monica and Matthew, lovelies.

At the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, you’ll be celebrating your big day in complete style… and totally luxury. Think a plethora of breathtaking ceremony and reception options, exceptional entertainment and sophisticated decor dotting every inch of your Big Day. Not to mention the one-on-one service you’ll receive from your Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa Wedding Specialist, aka, your personal wedding genius that will make sure all of your needs are completely and totally met. They’ll even infuse your day with little Hawaiian touches, so your guests will have the whole experience from start to finish. We heart that.

With the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, your wedding will be absolutely perfect… and so will your stay. From the 806 guest rooms + 31 newly renovated suites to the championship golf, wildlife tours and half-acre fantasy pool to the oceanfront spa that will seriously take your breath away. Call them NOW to begin your journey towards those awe-inspiring nuptials. We can’t wait until you say “I do.”

Photography: Scott Drexler | Ceremony Venue: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort And Spa | Reception Venue: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort And Spa | Morning After Breakfast: Japengo

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Behind the Scenes with Packed Party

Packed Party is the kind of office where disco balls and confetti are a normal desk accessory. A.K.A what workplace dreams are made of. Tour this spot exploding with whimsy and charm and get to know founder Jordan. She’s a self-proclaimed party girl with a knack for insanely cute gift packages. One look at this awesome HQ photographed by Vero Suh, and we promise you’ll be inspired to add a little party to your office space or at least drink your water out of a disco ball.

SMP: Some words you live by?

When one door closes another one always opens!

SMP: Any guilty pleasures?

I’m a big time Real Housewives Of New Jersey fan, it’s bad, but so good!

SMP: What did you think your dream job was before your dream job found you?

I really had no idea what I wanted to do. I majored in strategic media and public relations and had two internships doing a bit of everything for a company. I got my first job and remember feeling really unsatisfied with myself creatively. I wasn’t unhappy at my first job, but I wasn’t doing anything I really felt was meaningful either. It’s so funny now looking back because I made at list at the time in a journal I kept of what a “dream job” looked like for me and it is Packed Party to a “T”. Little did I know what was in store for me.

SMP: What’s your favorite quote that describes your creative process?

“Your own reasons to make art are reason enough. Create whatever causes a revolution in your heart.” – Elizabeth Gilbert

SMP: If you could do it all over again, would you change anything?

Some days I definitely wish I could fast forward, but looking back on all those moments they are the ones that define me today. I had an internship in college working for a major fashion and alcohol brand that pushed me way out of my comfort zone at times. I definitely had some hard days where I questioned myself and if it was worth it and looking back that summer made me the business owner I am today. I learned no job was ever to small or big for me to take on.

SMP: What is your favorite item in your office?

It might be a tie between the vintage gold roller skates or the colored goblets we have above the sink from the Madonna Inn. My eyes are always drawn to anything vintage and colorful!

SMP: What’s your best tip for balancing work and personal life?

Go on walks. Lots of them! I’m still learning to balance my work and personal life some since starting Packed Party, but honestly, stepping away from my desk for a 5 minute walk is very helpful for me to clear my head. At any given time I feel like I’m doing a hundred things, so it’s therapeutic for me to put my phone away and step away. My puppy Truman has helped in getting me away from my desk every so often too!

SMP: What was the tipping point in your business that made you feel like it was going to thrive?

I think when we started creating products outside the care package umbrella and they got such a positive response. The Doorstep Necklace was the first product we rolled out that was outside the themed party package space, and it’s done even better than I could have ever imagined. From there we rolled out our Disco Drinks and those have blown up even more so than the necklaces, so I kinda looked around like okay, people see what I see here, that this is a brand, not just some flash in the pan “gift box” company, we’re making products here. I always believed Packed Party was more than just the packages, so it’s amazing to see Party Girls responding to the products in such positive way.

SMP: What is the hardest lesson in business you’ve ever learned?

“Me too” brands come and they go. Keep your head down and focus on what you’re creating. If it’s an original idea it will stand on its own. You always have to be twenty steps ahead. I am a firm believer there’s enough business out there for everyone, so do your own thing in a big creative way. In the beginning of starting Packed Party I would take it so incredibly personally when people would take my concept, words, you name it, and claim it as their own. It’s a compliment I learned very quickly. You can’t win playing catch-up on old ideas. You have to keep your blinders on and just do your thing!

SMP: Stranded on a desert island question… what’s the one cocktail you would take with you?

Margarita. Extra salt please for my rim!

SMP: One thing every style savvy party should have?

Hmm, this sounds weird but an amazing table scape. I love every detail that goes into a table setting from the place card to the napkin ring, you name it I notice it all on a table.

SMP: If you could buy yourself a single gift of any cost, what would it be?

Definitely a 1970 Volkswagen Beetle convertible in navy…or yellow.

SMP: One thing you can’t live without?

Rose water mist for my face! I keep some on my desk, in my purse, at home, you name it – wherever I am it’s with me. It’s so refreshing to spray on your face and it’s really moisturizing.

SMP: Your secret to success?

Be relentless in your efforts and surround yourself with people who are real and always honest with you.

SMP: Number one party tip?

If we’re talking how to make every day a party in life I’d say waking up with a positive attitude. If we’re talking about a physical party, I’d say bring confetti. Lots of it.

SMP: One place everyone must visit in their lifetime?

San Francisco. It’s amazing to me some of the emails we get from people saying they live vicariously through our Instagram feed’s photos of the city. I think everyone would be a little happier if they stopped through the city by the bay once in their lifetime! It’s so colorful and cheery here.

SMP: Tell us a little about your business.

Packed Party is a company that sells creative and uniquely themed gifts to encourage people to make every day a party! We sell everything from care packages to drinkware and jewelry. We believe in celebrating all the little things and that it only takes one person to throw a Packed Party wherever you are with a little confetti and a navy package.

SMP: Best moment of your career so far?

Hmm, there’s no one best moment I’ve had so far. I feel so incredibly lucky to be pursuing my literal dream every day so it’s all kind of the best. I realize this sounds corny, but I guess I’m waiting on my big moment still?

SMP: Advice you’d give to your younger self?

Be quiet while you work, your success will speak for you. I guess it kind of goes back to keeping your head down and pursuing whatever you’re working on without worrying.

SMP: Your favorite instagrammer?

100% @thegoldiegrams she’s my daily dose of funny. Follow immediately if you’re not already.

SMP: Your go-to recipe?

My mom’s chicken enchiladas! They’re a little spicy, but I love em’.

SMP: What would you do differently if you knew nobody would judge you?

Well…I already overuse dry shampoo and wear my hair shamelessly in a top-knot every day, so that’s out. Judge away at my messy hair. Maybe eat peanut butter out of the jar from my desk?

SMP: The best advice you’ve ever received?

“Don’t be afraid to share your idea with the world! Be confident enough to know no one else can execute it better than you…and if you’re unsure of that you have no business pursuing it.”

SMP: What was the first job you ever landed?

I worked at a marketing agency in Dallas called The Marketing Arm doing hospitality and events for them. Our clients were everyone from AT&T to Nascar. At one point in my career I was traveling to Walmart’s across the country making sure Nascar signage was properly displayed in the aisles. Really glam stuff.

SMP: What’s a typical work day for you like?

No day is the same for me at this point still. I’m constantly being pulled in a million different directions and doing a little bit of everything from social media to designing new products or helping resolve a customer service issue. We’re a really small team, so no one job is someone’s – we’re all kind of in it together.

SMP: Do you have any secret talents?

I’m a weirdly good whistler. This I learned calling after my dog, Truman about a dozen times and having people stop on the street and say, “wow, what a whistle!”… I guess I’ll take it!

SMP: If you could dine with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?

Right now probably Nancy Meyers. I am obsessed with all of her movies from Father Of The Bride to my very favorite, It’s Complicated, plus I think she’s such a leader in the film industry being a female director and producer. I don’t know her, but I think we’d be best friends if we met. Nancy Meyers if you’re reading this somewhere can I be a part of you and Diane Keaton’s girl gang, pretty please?

SMP: Where do you see yourself in five years?

Professionally I see myself still grinding away at Packed Party. We have a long way to go on this journey of building out the brand, but it’s so exhilarating to me! Personally I hope I’m married, have a couple more bernese mountain dog puppies, and having a few more European vacations under my belt. I love traveling and haven’t been able to do much of it since starting Packed Party so I’m excited to get to that point in my life where I’m able to step a way a tiny bit.

SMP: Why do you think your business has done so well?

I’m really passionate about what I’m doing. Day in and day out I am waking up and pouring my heart into what I am creating and putting it out there and I think there’s something to be said for that. People can feel the genuineness of our brand in the little details from the letter-pressed cards inside packages to how we talk to people on social media. My approach to communicating to our Party Girls is viewing them as friends. We always try and treat everyone we work with as such. I always say good people find good people. I believe that.

Photography: Vero Suh Photography | Packed Party: Packed Party

Classic Church Wedding with a Touch of Teal

We first fell in love with this couple during their golden hour engagement session, and today we’re peeking inside their elegant St. Louis wedding. Dressed up in a jewel tone palette of deep teal and touches of gold, it’s a day coordinated by the fabulous Kate & Company, and photographed by Clary Pfeiffer. One part modern and one part classic, this gallery is style mixing done oh so right.

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From The Bride…In the summer of 2011, our addiction to TRX group exercise brought us together at Full Force Fitness in Mountain View, CA. Week after week, month after month, we continued to run into each other in class – TJ trying his hardest to impress me with his stamina and strength, while I focused on nothing but surviving through class without puking. Friendly smiles turned into cordial chit-chat, which turned into walks to the car, and….eventually led to the exchange of phone numbers outside TJ’s sexy red PT Cruiser. We found ourselves coming to more and more classes, as there was suddenly an exciting new motive pushing us to exercise.

Unfortunately, just as things were getting interesting, we were informed that Full Force Fitness was going out of business. On November 4, 2011, the owner of the gym hosted a final farewell potluck for all clients. Of course, we both showed up for no reason other than the chance to each other again. We immediately hit it off. This farewell party quickly became less about bidding the gym farewell, and more about getting to know one another. We exchanged stories about almost everything in those two hours – school, work, family, experiences, interests…and of course, Microsoft Excel spreadsheets. Somehow TJ knew exactly how to win my heart, with excel formulas. We talked and laughed together until the night was over, when we said goodbye and scheduled our first date.

It was a Wednesday night at Maggiano’s and we were nervous and excited. The date was a whirlwind. Time flew by. We learned we had so much in common – interest, values, dreams, aspirations – and the more we discovered we shared, the more excited we became! Before we knew it, it had been four, maybe five, hours and we realized we had barely eaten. It was clear the servers and staff were kindly waiting for us to leave, so we packed up our food and continued the conversation outside. We sat together under a beautifully lit oak tree….until security eventually showed up to break up our date by turning off the fire and taking our seat cushions. We laughed, took the hint, and called it a night. After that evening, it felt as if we had known each other for years. Instant friends. We agreed there was no one we ever clicked with so well and so quickly. Clearly, we found something truly special.

Three years later, we celebrated the anniversary of the day we met: November 4. In doing so, we decided to go to Maggiano’s again since we hadn’t been since that first amazing date in 2011. Arriving at the restaurant, we were not-so-coincidentally escorted to the same table we sat at years ago. I thought to myself “This can’t be a pure coincidence. But then again, I know TJ and he does not do stuff like this. What is this man up to…” I tried not to let my head run away with the idea of a proposal, and just enjoyed our dinner. It was lovely. We reflected on how happy we’d each become, and this time at Maggiano’s, we actually ate our food. 10:30 PM rolled around, and TJ suggested calling it a night and I agreed. After all, I was stuffed, it was a weeknight and also way too cold to sit outside under the oak tree.

Driving home, TJ decided to make a detour. I asked “where are we going?” several times, and he dodged the question over and over. Then he exited. I recognized the exit immediately, and thought “pinch me.” TJ pulled into the old parking lot of Full Force Fitness. We got out of the car, and he read to me a speech consisting of heartfelt words I have always dreamed of hearing, from the man I’ve always dreamed of. TJ got down on one knee, opened the tiny box that held the most beautiful ring I had ever seen, and asked me to share the rest of my life with him. Of course I said Yes. What more could a girl ask for than to marry her favorite person and best friend! In what most people would consider an abandoned old parking lot, TJ made it a place I will never forget. A place where each of our lives changed for the better….twice. And, we’ll be wed!

Of course, the best moment of the day was when those church doors opened and we locked eyes. I’ll never forget it. It was so special and perfect, including the part when my uncle stepped on my veil :) But after that, TJ and I both agree our favorite part of the day was sitting at our sweetheart table and enjoying the view. With our family and friends being so far apart, it was such a joy to see all of our favorite people under one roof, celebrating together. I still get teary eyed thinking of it.

Style Me Pretty Living on The TODAY Show!

When SMP Living makes an appearance on The TODAY Show, we still pinch ourselves to make sure this is real life. But today, that pinch-me-moment is taken to a whole new level as Abby rocks her first on-air segment as an official TODAY Show Tastemaker. And the beautiful Mama-with-the-mostess that she is, she’s got a lineup of super adorbs kids birthday party ideas like THIS COLOR HAPPY DIY TENT and a s’mores recipe to boot. Can you guess the theme? Tune in with us during the 8 o’clock hour for all the fun!

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See the DIY Tent from Abby’s Today Show Segment here!

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Best Ever Home DIYs and Design Hacks

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Best Ever Home DIYs and Design Hacks

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Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography

Romantic Bali Wedding

Take a breathtaking Bali backdrop, a talented team of vendors and a beautiful bride rockin’ not one, not two, but three stunning gowns and the results are a wedding that is the absolute definition of perfection. Think the fab stylings of Cher Ange, gorgeous blooms from Bloomz Fine Flowers and brilliant imagery from Imaj Gallery. Head to THE VAULT for every amazing moment, then press play on the film from Point One Designs for even more (very pretty) inspiration.

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From Cher Ange… A lovely summer wedding in Bali that was all about blush gold sequins, whites and greens. Elegant and romantic with a touch of Bollywood (honour to the Indian roots of the groom). The bride and groom live in NY and had 80 guests that attended from all over the world. It was a beautiful beachfront ceremony that was followed by cocktail and canapés for sunset around the beach front pool and Balinese dances. Dinner was under fairy lights, we had fulfilled all the trees and the party moved on to the dance floor until midnight.

From the Bride… I’m normally the planner in our relationship, but Gaurav decided he wanted to surprise me for our next trip. What came next was a whirlwind trip to Europe that kicked off with a proposal at the Hotel Caesar Augustus in Capri, Italy. He had organized a private dinner in a cliffside alcove that overlooked a panoramic view of the Amalfi coastline at sunset. Good thing I said “yes,” because the surprises kept on coming with visits to Sardegna, Lisbon, Madeira, and London before returning home!

Gaurav had always dreamed of getting married in Bali; I always knew I would get married on the beach. With our families scattered across the US, Canada, India, England, and Korea, we knew there would be travel involved for most of our guests so we thought, ‘Bali, let’s do it’! There was no question about finding a planner on the ground and were thankful when Karen and Cher Ange came recommended through a friend. Karen was a godsend; having grown up in France and the US before settling in Bali, she had a taste for western preferences and a wealth of Balinese resources to execute a couple’s vision of their special day. In our first Skype sessions and emails, we expressed our desire for a contemporary setting accented by clean lines and a white and gold palette. And, of course, a little sparkle never hurt!

With hundreds of hours of travel, stopovers, and time zones between our 75 guests, our number one objective was to thank our family and friends by giving them an experience they’d (hopefully) never forget.

We narrowed down the venue to Villa Atas Ombak, a stunning beachfront private villa in Seminyak, Bali. As you may have guessed, we’re fond of surprises so Karen helped us incorporate a few surprise touches for our guests which included a welcome “white party” at Potato Head Beach Club, traditional Balinese dancers, a whole roasted pig, fire dancers, and a post-wedding pool BBQ! Gaurav’s personal touches included a brigade of flavored shishas (hookahs) and a drone from our videographers! Since our beloved French Bulldog, Jamón, wasn’t able to join us in Bali, we created a logo of him that was emblazoned on our wedding favors – mini sriracha bottles (our fave condiment) – and had a marzipan replica of him that sat on top of our wedding cake!

Wedding dress shopping was by far my favorite planning activity (as evidenced by not one, but
three dresses!). I must have gone to at least 7 boutiques and tried on dozens of dresses, but in my mind I always went back to this Lazaro ballgown that featured an ivory and sherbet ombre train and gorgeous beading on a fitted bodice. I was nervous about being too hot so I opted for a lovely fitted blush satin gown accented with buttons all down the back and a double French bustle by Anna Maier as a reception dress. While I was shopping for the reception dress, my eye caught a gold Jenny Packham babydoll sample that had only ever walked the runway. It was a one-of-a-kind bundle of French lace, tulle, and gold sequins. I just knew that it was the perfect dress to get the party started with! Not to be outdone, Gaurav had two custom tuxedos from Tom Ford. A midnight blue one (the same one worn by James Bond in Skyfall, natch) for the ceremony and a white dinner jacket for the reception.

Our favorite moment of the day was being surrounded by our friends and family, who had lit sparklers as we danced our first dance to Adele’s “Make You Feel My Love.” Since that was our last formal “obligation” for the wedding, we were excited to get the party started! We were able to keep the party going all night long in the villa and even had some guests (ok, and me) enjoy a late night swim. It was truly a modern-day fairytale come true!

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Tropical Floral Inspired Spring Dallas Wedding

The only thing better than a wedding day, is an entire wedding weekend to celebrate with the ones you love most. Starting with an intimate ceremony + fiesta-style dinner and ending with a post-wedding bash for everyone to party, this couple couple opted for the best of both worlds with a festivities that carried all weekend long. Of course, the incredible Stefanie Miles Events and Bows + Arrows made certain every moment was styled to a T, and Sarah Kate caught it all on camera. Pop to The Vault and see how they pulled the ultimate at-home nuptials.

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From Stefanie Miles Events…Rae and Kurt’s aesthetic was very clean, minimal, and modern yet Rae loved lush and overgrown floral full of unique blooms and textures.

We designed a very personal weekend of events for this special couple, beginning with an intimate wedding ceremony and tasting dinner at home with Chef Graham Dodds on Thursday, a rehearsal dinner full of relaxed fun on Friday, and a reception for all their friends and family on Saturday evening. We designed their weekend to reflect their sense of style, and to have a cohesive feel while still defining several distinct events.

The reception was set in the modern garden of The Nasher Sculpture Center, surrounded by greenery and concrete, we chose to accentuate and play up the surrounding color palette while bringing in a touch of martinique chic. Grey natural linens mimicked the concrete walls and architecture while centerpieces consisting of mostly greenery and garlands reinforced the garden atmosphere and brought all the trees and grass together in a cohesive manner. Centerpieces were arranged in modern geometric footed compotes and filled with rare tropical greens, seasonal peony, chocolate cosmos, bleeding heart, andromeda, scabiosa, nigella, and garden roses. Guests were treated to edible cocktails by The Grand Bevy and dinner from Wolfgang Puck. They danced under the starts on a beautiful spring night!

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Badgley Mischka

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Watters

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C20 Mothers 2012 Part I

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Seahorse Spring 2013

Watters Brides Fall 2014

Watters Brides Spring 2013

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Willowby Spring 2015

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Encore Spring 2015

Watters Brides Spring 2016

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Wtoo Brides Fall 2015

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12 Pink Chairs That Steal the Show

Right up there with patterned tile, pink chairs have been on my radar lately. From the velvet-y variety to the tufted to the ever-so-mod, I’m convinced one will eventually find it’s way into our home. Because really, what room wouldn’t be happier with one of these beauties below in it? Let us know which one you’d choose in the comments!

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Pretty Pink Bedrooms for Sweet Dreams

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Pretty Pink Bedrooms for Sweet Dreams

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A Life Well Slept with Casper + A Promotion!

In our perfect world, every morning would start slow. Think breakfast in bed, pour over coffee, snuggling up with the one you love, and of course a perfect sleep surface like Casper to match. It’s the insanely comfy mattress making its way onto registries of newlyweds everywhere, but not without good reason. I mean, a life well slept? We are sooo on board.

Completely durable, seriously sleek and hand-crafted right here in the USA, Casper is changing the way you look at mattress shopping with a direct-to-consumer approach and immediate + free 2-5 day shipping. Which means that cozy weekend spent cuddling with your love is right around the corner… and delivered in a “How did they do that?” sized box that is almost as cool as the mattress itself. (Seriously – it’s awesome.) Afraid of mattress commitment? Don’t sweat it. Casper offers a 100-day risk free trial, so there’s more than enough time to decide if the award-winning sleep surface, contouring memory foam and breathable latex foam is perfect for you and yours. (Answer: It totally is.)

From their amazing customer service to their 10-year warranty to their beyond affordable prices, Casper sleep surfaces are everything you’ve ever dreamed of. (Pun intended!) And don’t even get me started on their fabulous lineup of pillows and sheet sets for an even cozier, dreamier night’s sleep.

Contact Casper today to take advantage of their 100-day RISK FREE TRIAL and start your journey to a life well slept. And don’t forget to follow them on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

Use code “SMP50” to receive $50 off any sized mattress… visit Casper now to start perusing the options.

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Photography: Jamie Lauren Photography

Watch Taylor Swift’s Award Show Worthy Maid of Honor Speech

When it comes to #SquadGoals, it doesn’t get much more real than Taylor Swift’s notorious pack of besties. But sweeter still? Tay’s friendship with her BFF from birth, Brittany LaManna. The songstress stunned as Maid of Honor at LaManna (née Maack)’s Pennsylvania wedding, delivering perhaps her most fan girl-worthy speech yet (with zero interruptions, thankyouverymuch, Kanye.) And believe us you, if you think Tay’s lyrics cut you to the core, you’re going to want to break out the tissues for her words on love and friendship…That’s why we’re dubbing this her next big hit:

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Taylor-Approved Bridesmaid Gowns That’ll Never Go Out Of Style

Taylor Swift Approved Bridesmaid Dresses

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Taylor Swift Approved Bridesmaid Dresses

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How Not to Screw Up a Wedding Toast

Whimsical Sonoma Wedding with Pops of Purple, Magenta + Gold

There are so many things I love about this wedding that it’s nearly impossible to pick a favorite element: the vibrant color palette, the gorgeous Sonoma setting, the whimsical centerpieces, and the list goes on. But I think my favorite part is that these high school sweethearts passed their wedding rings around for their guests to bless so that everyone important in their life could be part of their big day. See all the pretty captured by Jen Philips in The Vault!

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From Jen Philips…Hi! Stephanie and Ryan, along with their wedding planner/designer Heather Holliday, designed a wedding that wasn’t afraid to shine brightly, with pops of purples and magentas, and golden accents, set against the contemporary design and spectacular views of Hamel Family Wines. Here are a few things I really loved about their day:

– Hamel is a new winery in Sonoma, and is doing relatively few weddings. The owners are great friends of Ryan’s mother
– The golden books decorating the tables
– The question cards with facts about the couple at the tables
– The florals by Flowers by Rebekah!
– The couple’s 11-year relationship started in high school and has stuck with them through college, new towns, law school (for Stephanie) and so much more.
– Passing (and blessing) of the rings from hand to hand by the guests during the ceremony.
– The flower girls’ choreographed “Watch Me Whip/Nae Nae” dance at the reception
– The wedding party gifts – custom branding irons and Bic lighters for the guys, and lat/long stamped necklaces for the girls (the location of each of their births).

From The Bride…Ryan and I met on my first day of high school but we didn’t start dating until I was a junior and he was a senior. We both grew up in Naples, Florida and went to college in Orlando. We moved to Chicago a few years ago so I could go to law school and we got engaged on our 10 year anniversary. We both love to travel and we could not get over the idea of a destination wedding. The first vacation we ever took just the two of us was to California. We fell in love with Northern California while we were there, which is why Sonoma ultimately won. That and the venue was so beautiful we had to get married there!

Our style vision was a glamorous bohemian rustic garden – which is such a mouth full! I think we really incorporated all of those elements. Purple is my favorite color (and it looks really great on Ryan) so I knew I wanted to use purple tones and accent the purple with bright pinks and metallics.

I love searching thrift stores and flea markets for antiques and was able to incorporate that in the doors, which was main decorative focus for the ceremony. As a self proclaimed nerd, I found the vintage flash cards on Etsy and had to have them as my table signs (I have used flash cards my entire life to study for big tests). I also love reading hence the gold books on the tables.

Ryan’s favorite thing, aside from our bull dog Frank is Liverpool Football Club. He has been a fan for almost 15 years and has turned me into one as well; watching soccer is something we really love to do together. He wanted Liverpool to be incorporated somehow and so all the groomsmen wore badges. I also had YWNA, which stands for You’ll Never Walk Alone and is LFC’s anthem, engraved on the inside of his wedding band.

My favorite moment was probably the ceremony. We both really wanted it to be personal and represent who we are individually and as a couple.We asked my Aunt, someone Ryan and I are very close to, to write something original to read and it was beautiful! We passed our wedding rings for our guests to bless because we wanted everyone there to be incorporated into the ceremony in a meaningful way – and we wanted them to know that they were important parts of our lives. We said traditional vows and wrote our own vows too. We both were really emotional and it seemed that EVERYONE cried.

Peonies are my favorite flowers and I wanted to use them as much as possible. The colors and the textures of all the flowers were so perfect I couldn’t have been happier. I also loved the flowers on the chairs at the end of the aisle during the ceremony. Ribbon bouquets were probably the one thing I knew I wanted from the beginning. We mixed some vintage ribbons, and a vintage piece of beaded lace as well as silk and satin ribbons and I really loved it. Ryan really wanted to use succulents so it was important that we incorporated them as accents and in the boys boutonnieres.

I was really close with my grandfather and he passed away from pancreatic cancer my senior year of high school. A few days before he died he told my mom that one of his biggest regrets was that he wouldn’t be able to dance with me at my wedding, so it was incredibly important that he was represented. I talked to my grandmother about using a piece of his jewelry or something that he had given her. She suggested this incredible 70’s medallion that said love in diamonds. I didn’t want to wear a necklace and so my mom had it turned into a bangle and it was perfect – I wear bangles all the time and it just felt like me. My grandmother let me keep it and it is one of the most special pieces of jewelry I own.

I think there are three really important things to keep in mind when planning a wedding. 1. Do what you want. Small concessions to appease your parents are one thing, but the wedding needs to be for you and your partner. 2. Find ways to involve your significant other. My husband really had a “whatever you want babe” attitude about the entire thing, but he did really care about the food and the alcohol and so I let him take charge of those areas. 3. Enjoy planning. There were times during planning I couldn’t wait for it to be over, but once it was, I realized that was (hopefully) the only wedding I was going to plan and it went by so fast. I wish I had been more in the moment.

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Romantic Candle Lit Wedding at The Ivy Room

The secret is out, The Ivy Room wins when it comes to wedding day venues. For not only does this stunning hidden gem provide a beautiful courtyard, but it’s also got a ballroom that makes you feel like you’ve entered a private oasis. So it comes as no surprise that Brooke and Brian’s nuptials at this stunning venue were gorgeous to say the least. Complete with a Vera Wang gown and thoughtful details through, Britta Hundertmark captured every moment to share and it’s waiting for you in The Vault!

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From Britta Hundertmark… Brooke and Brian were married at the lovely Ivy Room, in Chicago. If you have not yet seen this venue, it is a stunning hidden gem, with a beautiful courtyard, and a ballroom that makes you feel like you have entered someone’s private home. The space feels naturally romantic and cozy, but also exquisitely grand at the same time.

The morning of Brooke and Brian’s wedding we were greeted with temperatures will into the 90s, with high humidity (Oh, Chicago in the summer). The original plans for an outdoor ceremony were changed at the very last possible minute, to assure that guests would be comfortable. I watched in awe as the amazing teams from HMR designs and the Ivy room quickly transformed a portion of the reception space into one of the most beautiful indoor ceremony space I could have imagined.

Every piece of this day was carefully chosen by Brooke, who has an incredible eye for style. Her Vera Wang gown paired with Ivanka Trump flats created the perfect bridal look, that will always feel timeless. The reception details were exquisite. Every detail, from the china, to the vases, to the addition of mirrored tables, art deco inspired cake, and gorgeous cocktails, made the guests feel like they were walking into a dream. The entire day was filled with one magical moment and detail after another. The speeches were heartfelt and the dancing was on point. I couldn’t have enjoyed photographing this day any more.

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Elegant Nautical Chic Wedding in Greece

There’s nothing we love more than a destination wedding, and for this Swedish couple it meant jet-setting off to Greece to celebrate their ceremony in style. With the ever-so-talented Alex Warschauer by their side they exchanged sentimental vows amongst stunning views, and thankfully we’ve got it all waiting for you in The Vault!

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From Alex Warschauer… I was contacted by my dear friend Ellie who I met while attending college up in the San Francisco Bay Area. Ellie was an international student at the time living on campus, quite a change of pace from her home in Stockholm, Sweden. Unlike all of the weddings that I have photographed prior, this was unlike anything I had ever done before. This wedding was taking place in Athens, Greece and I was to fly across the world to capture Ellie and her fiancé Charles exchange their vows lakeside in the breathtaking town of Vouliagmeni.

The days leading up to the wedding were quite nerve racking. Every day we experienced scattered showers, strong wind, and even severe thunderstorms at night. This was not the weather I was expecting. Thankfully once the wedding day arrived the clouds rained themselves out and we had nothing but sunny skies. This was a huge relief, not just from a photographic standpoint but because the entire day was to take place outdoors. I met with Ellie in her suite the day of the wedding and knew right away this wedding was going to be extremely tasteful. Her hair was styled to absolute perfection with not a strand out of place. Her jewelry was simple and elegant, and she had her dress custom made by her friend Lina Nordin of A.Nordin.

The wedding went off without a hitch. The couple kept things very traditional and saved their first look until the bride walked down the aisle. After the ceremony we quickly hopped in a van with the bridal party and headed to the coast to capture some group shots and romantic sunset images. We headed back to the lake for family photos, toasts, and the most epic buffet-style dinner I have ever seen. Family and friends gave beautiful speeches throughout the night and half of the guests even surprised Ellie and Charles with a flash mob that brought tears to Ellie’s eyes. The party went on with drinks all around, homemade Greek ice cream and even a cigar bar.

From the Bride… After a romantic proposal in the beautiful scenery of Sedona Arizona, Charles and I were now facing a difficult decision of deciding where the wedding would take place. Charles is from USA and have his family all across the country, and my family is from Sweden and Greece. After a year of researching different venues, we finally decided on the beautiful and harmonic destination of Vouliagmeni. Vouliagmeni is in the heart of Athens Riviera, being located only 20 min away from both the airport and city center made the location ideal.

We currently live in Stockholm Sweden, so “scouting”- trips were a possibility. We made a few trips to meet with venues and wedding planners before making our minds up and had the pleasure of meeting Anna and Georgia from Bright Blue Wedding & Events during the summer of 2014. We felt an instant connection and trust in them, knowing they would be able to effectuate all of our dreams and expectation. They helped us to tailor the wedding so that each cultural heritage were incorporated and celebrated, yet kept an overall elegant Audrey Hepburn/Grace Kelly:ness to it. I can’t help to feel utterly blessed by the fact that every detail of our wedding was custom-made for Charles and I, and how it enabled us to keep an ongoing theme throughout every aspect of the wedding.

My extremely talented father-in-law Doug designed all of our stationaries and created our very own wedding logo used to seal each envelop. The midnight blue letterpress on top of the off-white vintage paper was a splendid interpretation of the wedding itself. So was my simple, yet elegant duchess silk wedding gown designed and handmade by my dear friend Lina Nordin – designer at A.Nordin. I spend the night before the wedding with one of my bridesmaid in the same suite we were to get ready in the next day, finishing up my hand-embroidered handkerchiefs I were to give all sets of parents the following day. I was well prepared for all the stress and chaos the next morning was to bring, a consensus confirmed by all brides Ive spoken to. Yet, waking up the next morning I felt nothing but pure happiness and excitement!

Seeing the venue upon arrival simply took my breath away! Anna and Georgia had not only listened to our ideas and wishes, but raised them and created something similar to a Monet painting. The trees were lit up by candles, the tables beautifully covered with midnight blue tablecloths and decorated with white hydrangea and water candles. The lake, exceptionally turquoise due to the setting sun, creating the mountain backdrop to take the most beautiful orange-amber color Ive ever seem. I never believed a photograph would do the scenery justice but Alex manage to capture not only the venue´s outstanding beauty, but all emotions flowing through the day as well.

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Classic + Elegant Newport Fall Wedding

The only way to make a beautiful autumn wedding even better? The addition of an adorable pup dressed up for the occasion, because when you’re getting married in glamorous Newport, Rhode Island, only black-tie will do. Head to The Vault to see all the pretty from this sweet couple’s big day thanks to gorgeous photos from Janet Moscarello Photography.

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From Janet Moscarello Photography…Mary + Shane radiate with tremendous energy. From our first meeting I knew that the day of their wedding would be filled with laughter, tears of joy, and an abundance of good vibes. They meticulously planned a gorgeous fall wedding in the place that held so much meaning to their relationship. It was one of those weddings that I would like to put on repeat, like forever!

From The Bride + Groom…In 2010 we were placed on a mutual friend’s beach volleyball team in Long Beach, NY. The water has always been a special place for us. It is where we fell in love. For the next few years we had a long distance relationship in three different cities (Buffalo, Philadelphia and New York). In 2013, we moved to Newport, RI together and were engaged at Castle Hill in 2014. While planning our wedding we knew it had to be in Newport. Newport has such a special meaning to us and our relationship. Mary worked at Salve Regina University so we were lucky to be able to have the reception at Ochre Court.

Touching Outer Banks Wedding Video

I’ve been trying to write this intro for about an hour now, but I honestly can’t see through the tears. These wedding videos always slay me, but this one from Swell Weddings is really doing a number on my tear ducts. No lie, this gorgeous couples’ first look will send chills up your spine (and if you are like me, make you cry like a baby), and you can see just what I mean when you hit play below.

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From The Bride…My husband and I met while working together at Norbanks Sailing Center in Duck, NC in May 2011. He had recently taken the job as the site manager for the watersports company, and I had just graduated college and was planning for a fun summer before the “real world” with girlfriends. We fell in love with each other and the Outer Banks that summer, and made both our move and relationship official that September. We were married 4 years later on September 20, 2015 right in front of the pier where we first laid eyes on each other. We were the first and probably only couple to ever wed at Norbanks. Shortly after meeting John, I took a job as the private events coordinator at a nearby country club called The Currituck Club. We held our reception there with the most wonderful team of vendors. After planning over 200 weddings, we both believed that less was more, and kept our wedding as true to us as possible. It had a casual garden feel full of flowers, greenery, italian bistro lighting, beautiful linens and a clear top tent. We had both rain and sunshine, the perfect mix to make up the perfect day. We saw each other for the first time half way to the venue overlooking the ocean. The rest is history!

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Casablanca Bridal

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