The more I stare at these images from Kyle John, the more I’m convinced that European elopements are the way to go. With the charming streets of Copenhagen as their backdrops, not to mention the Amalienborg Palace, these two proved that even the most intimate “I do” can be every bit as special. Join me in The Vault to see why we simply can’t get enough.

Share this gorgeous gallery on

 

From Linn Petterson… For their elopement Greta and David decided on the beautiful city of Copenhagen as their romantic destination. With its fairy tale charm the Danish capital served as the perfect backdrop for the couple who both have strong ties to the city.

The two wed in an intimate ceremony in the enchanting Tivoli gardens famous for its hundreds of colorful bubbling lights and flower gardens creating a cozy and idyllic feel that magically transports you to a world where Hans Christian Andersen’s stories become real.

Captured through the lens of Kyle John, the couple exuded classic elegance as they ventured through the heart of the city to have their portraits taken in the quiet and grand surroundings of the royal palace, Amalienborg. The golden light reflecting off the historic white walls and cobble stone square blending as a perfect love affair on this cool September afternoon.

Photography: Kyle John Photography | Venue: Tivoli Gardens | Portrait Location: Amalienborg Palace | Words: Linn Petterson

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

Petit Bouquet

View Portfolio

While this may be an inspirational shoot perfect for all our romantic readers out there, this style and every image from Stephanie Brazzle is so, so good, I’m begging someone to replicate for their own real wedding. All you need to do is dial up Meggie Francisco to plan and design all the details and get La Tavola and Bella Acento on board for all beautiful linens and flatware. Because it’s obvious; when these vendors come together, magic happens. See it all before your eyes in our VAULT right here!

Share this gorgeous gallery on

 

From Meggie Francisco… Locación, locación, locación: Sultry and romantic, with creamy terra cotta arches, Escondido Golf and Lake Club in Horseshoe Bay, Texas is the perfect spot for a Texas couple who would love to do a Latin-inspired destination wedding, yet prefers to keep the festivities local.

Our palette of apricot, dusty rose, and rich greens was pulled directly from the surroundings at Escondido. To bring this vision to life, Posh Floral masterfully composed a table centerpiece chock full of roses, orchids, ranunculus, and a variety of greenery, all overflowing from a sturdy golf compote. The place setting is comprised of fantastic finds from all sorts of places – the pale pink china is from Crate and Barrel, and we found the delicate pink Mexican glassware tucked away on a busy shelf at World Market. We topped the milky La Tavola linens with a sheer tattered scarf to add texture and character to the look.

The romantic yet daring Ines di Santo gown combines delicate lace with daring lines for a sexy yet demure bridal look, which is complemented by an organic, free-flowing bouquet with abundant greens and pale apricot and blush florals. The elegantly crafted statement earrings and classic round-cut rose gold engagement ring complement the look of simple glamour. For a touch of destination-inspired fun, the Aruna Seth shoes feature ornate beading with a tiny touch of turquoise, reminiscent of warm ocean waters.

Terra cotta ink and tile place cards bring earthiness and substance to the design while tying in the surrounding architecture, while the romantic calligraphy ensures that the feel remains airy and festive.

We are excited to share this shoot with readers of Style Me Pretty to show that if your destination wedding dreams are dashed, with the right design choices, it’s possible to achieve the same sense of passion and adventure to your home state!

[dotted]

Peruse more Texas wedding inspiration here!

Photography: Stephanie Brazzle Photography | Event Planning + Design: Meggie Francisco | Floral Design: Posh Floral Designs | Wedding Dress: Ines Di Santo | Stationery: The Paper Pad | Bride's Shoes: Aruna Seth | Jewelry: Shapiro Diamonds | Hair + Makeup: Anastasia Strattan | Groom's Attire: Nordstrom | Venue: Escondido | Bridal Boutique: Arte Latica | Chairs: Suite 206. luxury event rentals | China: Crate & Barrel | Flatware: Bella Acento | Glassware: World Market | Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola

If you’re wondering what a classic and timeless wedding looks like, this is it. With a country club setting, the couple’s monogram throughout, and a color palette of blush, gold, and cream, this wedding is as elegant as they come—and full of personal touches, including a small photo attached to the Bride’s bouquet to honor her recently deceased father. See all the pretty from Allison Kuhn Photography in The Vault!

Share this gorgeous gallery on

 

From Allison Kuhn Photography…Emily and Michael were a joy to work with. Their easy-going and fun personalities made photographing their wedding easy. Emily’s incredibly classic and elegant taste was clearly reflected in the stunning Modern Trousseau dress when chose. Everything being located at one of Charlotte, North Carolina’s most up-scale venues, Charlotte Country Club. Large crystal chandeliers and hardwood floors made her reception a beautiful site. With help from Anne Markey of Favor Me Events, these wedding details were beautiful. Emily chose a white ceramic tray with her initials etched in gold as a guestbook for guests to sign.

Emily lost her father earlier in the year, and so honored him with a small black and white photo attached to her bouquet.

Each bridesmaid wore a different dress…all 12 of them. Having so many friends in Emily and Michael’s wedding party was such a reflection of the love surrounding them in life. They are such good souls and I know they will have a great life together.

From The Bride…I envisioned an classic, and romantic feel to our wedding with a slight shabby chic vibe. When I walked into Charlotte Country club I knew it was the perfect place to host the reception as it is the oldest country club in Charlotte. It has beautiful vaulted ceilings, huge mirrors, and amazing chandeliers that set the stage for the night. We wanted this to be a special day for us but also a fun night for all of our guests. We had a formal sit down dinner for 250 guests and then the band started for a fun night of dancing.

My color palette was blush, gold, and cream. I had bridesmaids pick out any dress they wanted in blush and we worked the other colors into the flowers and other details. I wanted china incorporated so we brought in an assortment of china plates that our salad (fried green tomatoes) was served on. We brought in tons of candles to lighten the room, and had an assortment of flowers and lanterns on the guests tables

My favorite moment of the night was dancing to the band with my new husband and all of our friends and family. Michael and I had our first dance choreographed by First Dance Charlotte and it was so much fun to show it off after a few months of practice. Once the dance floor opened up to everyone, it was packed all night! We both love to dance as do our families so picking the band was a very important part of our planning. My dad passed away two months before the wedding, but before he did so he helped me pick out the band. We went through their entire play list and selected the songs we wanted played at our wedding. It was so much fun hearing the songs as they were played and remembering this fun moment with him. We also had sunglasses made that had the foundation that was started in my dad’s name on the side. Everyone loved putting these on and joining us on the dance floor!

My favorite crafted detail was having our monogram used throughout all of the details of our wedding. It first appeared on our invitation created by Pink Toast Inc. and we continued to use it on our programs, menu, napkins, and coasters. My favorite part was having it monogrammed on a big serving platter which we used as our guest book.

My Modern Troussea from Hayden Olivia Bridal: I love this designer because you can basically create your own custom dress. I was able to take the bottom of one dress, the top of another, and the back of another and put them all together. I had a full bottom with a high lace top and cap sleeves. The back came down low and had a satin bow where it met the bottom.

In lieu of favors we donated to the Russell C. Guerin Foundation for Melanoma Research. To go along with this, we passed out sunglasses once the party got started that everyone immediately put on and showed off on the dance floor.

Charlotte Country Club in House baker made the best wedding cake I’ve ever tasted and it was so beautiful too! I wanted a simple raked cake with flowers draped on it and it turned out perfect.

I found out that I was able to plan the wedding of my dreams in just 5 1/2 months. I give tons of credit to my amazing wedding planner but when I first started I thought this would be impossible. It actually made things much easier because I didn’t have too much time to think about things, I just made decisions quickly and that was that. I did have to make sure I knew what my non-negotiable were and be flexible on other things. For example, I knew I had to have the reception venue, so we had to have the wedding on a Friday instead of a Saturday. If you have a shortened time frame, it doesn’t mean you can’t have the wedding you’ve always dreamed of!

Photography: Allison Kuhn Photography | Event Planning: Favor Me Events | Floral Design: New Creations Flower Company | Wedding Dress: Modern Trousseau | Cake: Charlotte Country Club | Stationery: Pink Toast Ink | Ceremony Venue: St. Vincent D Paul | Reception Venue: Charlotte Country Club | Catering: Charlotte Country Club | Hair + Makeup: Lindsey Regan Thorne | Band: EastCoast Entertainment | Bridal Boutique: Hayden Olivia Bridal | Rentals: Party Reflections

There are photographers and then there are visionary artists like Ana Lui Photography. For not only does this master of the lens manage to capture gorgeous images time and time again, but her organic approach to subject matter lends to subtle, soft, and magical images each and every time. For when this powerhouse of pretty steps behind the lens we know the results will be a one gorgeous gallery.

From Ana Lui Photography… I started to shoot film again after my amazing workshop with Jose Villa back in November 2014 and after shooting alongside Jonathan Canlas in February 2015. I currently use a mixture of medium format, 35mm and digital cameras, depending on the light and the location. I absolutely love the feeling that film gives. The grain, the detail, skin tones and I also believe there is something really magical about shooting film.
Film makes you more selective, more focused and it pushes you to trust yourself as an artist. It feels more real to me. The actual process of photographing is more subtle and soft – it allows you to simply be in the moment rather than constantly looking at the back of your screen or pointlessly overshooting. I believe photography is all about falling in love, each time with a different person, moment or subject.

Every couple & every client should follow their intuition when booking their photographer. It’s super important to ¨click¨, to open and simply BE in the moment for the real emotions and beauty to flow. I wanted my brand and my work to feel natural, organic, soft. To smell of fresh olive wood, rosemary and evoke memories of a space in time. I wanted to represent my little island of Ibiza in my work. Ibiza is such a beautiful place. It constantly inspires me, pushes me and keeps me close to nature. I absolutely love shooting surrounded by people who share my vision. I love the feeling when you know you are creating something truly unique, sharing a moment in time, a moment in somebody’s life, it’s like opening your heart to the universe and letting the beauty flow.

[dotted]

See even more head-turning trends here!

Photography: Ana Lui Photography

Seeing as Sundance Film Festival has come to a close we felt it was time to share a few of our film inspired wedding details! From fun guestbook captures, to interactive snapshots, we’ve rounded up a few favorite ways to get your guests snapping and sharing their own memories from your Big Day!

Film Inspired Wedding Details

View Slideshow

Film Inspired Wedding Details

View Slideshow

[dotted]

Find More Inspiration Below!

Emotional Moments Caught on Camera |  15 Times Grooms Cried First Seeing Their Beautiful Brides

Don’t get me wrong, your wedding dress should feel totally you, and if that means you want something sexy, I totally support that. That said, there’s something so bridal about a classic silk or lace gown with timeless design details and a more modest vibe. And if that’s the route you want to go, we have you covered because these gorgeous gowns are as beautiful and modest as they are elegant and classic!

Modest Wedding Dresses Any Bride Can Love

View Slideshow

Modest Wedding Dresses Any Bride Can Love

View Slideshow

[dotted]

More Wedding Dresses to Love

Timeless + Elegant Wedding Gowns | Trending: Two-Piece Dresses | Beach Wedding Dresses

It’s almost Valentines day which means that it’s almost time to start dropping your honey some hints. I mean, don’t get us wrong – we looove a good grocery store rose, but sometimes it’s the luxuriously layered blooms that speak loudest when it comes to heart shaped holidays. Which is why we’ve rounded up a few lovelier than lovely bouquets to inspire your beau this year!

Valentine's Day Bouquets

View Slideshow

Valentine's Day Bouquets

View Slideshow

[dotted]

More Valentine’s Day Inspo Below!

Conversation Hearts | Affordable Valentine’s Day Gifts He’ll Love | Valentine’s Date Ideas for the Low-Key Couple

Around these parts, Valentine’s Day is kind of a big deal. And not only is it a big deal for us wedding bloggers, but it’s also that time of year a lot of VERY important questions get asked on bended knee. We’re not promising to know your beau’s big plans, but just pointing out some sneaky tip-offs he might be preparing to propose (!!!!!!!!)

[dotted]

He’s Standoffish

He seems a little more pre-occupied than usual, or withdrawn from day-to-day conversations.

He Double and Triple Checks Your Schedule over Valentine’s Weekend

Because obviously, he needs to make sure you’re free!

He’s Overly Protective of His Phone or Wallet

Receipts, ring photos or proposal planning texts could all be his top secret information.

[dotted]

He Asks or Confirms Your Jewelry Tastes

I mean, this one is just obvious!

He’s Been in Money Saving Mode.

More date nights in, could mean more bucks saved for the bling.

He’s Initiated Discussions About Long-Term Plans

Jobs, locations, kids or no kids? It’s all important convo topics with our soon-to-be.

He Treats You To a Spa Day

Hello, manicure!

[dotted]

He Makes Big (or Surprise) Plans for Valentine’s Weekend

Whether it’s an escape to the beach or a reservation at your favorite restaurant, he just might be up to something special.

He Becomes Overly Sentimental

All of the sudden he’s reminiscing on how you two first met, your first date, etc.

He’s in Talks With Your Family or Closet Friends

Almost as if they ALL know something you don’t!

[dotted]

Psssst: a little ring inspiration to get you started!

What's Your Engagement Ring Style?

View Slideshow

What's Your Engagement Ring Style?

View Slideshow

Ohh what I would give to be one of those effortlessly cool french girls (you know the ones), but until then I can still fake it until I make it – right?! Enter a hair-do that can carry me from conversing with co-workers uptown, to cocktails at the coolest new spot downtown. A straight off the runway look that is as elegant as it is easy and we’ve got it all waiting for you below. Press play for your daily dose of pretty!

[dotted]

Videography: Elysium Productions | Photography: Leila Brewster | Hair: Jennie Kay Beauty

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

Elysium Productions

View Portfolio

I fully believe that preparation is a good hostess’s best friend. And after years of learning from the best of them (ahem Hostess with the Mostess Abby Larson) I’ve adopted a few tried and true tricks. Things like always having a stash of good champagne for impromptu celebrations, a curated play list at the ready and a few crowd-pleasing recipes in my arsenal and now this little trick. Meet the DIY Hostess Basket from Simply Charming Socials + Sawyer Baird.

This time of year, we all of a sense of urgency to clean house. Decluttering, purging, Spring Cleaning, whatever you call it, the effort to streamline and simplify is embedded in our souls. As you tackle the pantry, keep one thing constant: a Hostess Basket.

From overnight guests to dinner parties to showers of all kind, I adore being a hostess. There is something about preparing a lovely meal, decorating a room, setting the table, and laying out little goodies for friends and family that brings me such joy. I’m important to be ready for guests, so I keep a Hostess Basket in my pantry in case an impromptu get-together arises.

Fill a basket or bin with gourmet dry goods, candles, linens, and a couple of tiny goodies for last minute dinner parties and spend-the-night guests. When the time comes to host, just add some fresh ingredients and flowers on the table, and you’re all set.

[dotted]

A few Ideas for the perfect Hostess Basket

[dotted]

• Linen Spray: A mild scented linen spray can be used as a Febreze stand-in or as a quick air freshener.

• Pasta Sauce: Your favorite jar of sauce will have some shelf life and is versatile enough to use on a pasta dish, grilled chicken, or even a bread-dipper. Pesto is a good alternative if you don’t love red sauces.

• Caramels: These are my absolute favorite and can go in a candy dish, on a pillow in the guest room, or even in little goodie bags.

• Scone Mix: This mix sits well in a pantry and makes for tasty breakfast, brunch, or dessert sweet. Pair with ice cream, whip cream, and/or fresh berries.

• Turkish Towel: Accent or hand towels set aside just for company come in handy. Be sure to wash and iron after every use so they are good to go for the next guests.
• Bar of Soap: A gorgeous bar of hand soap goes a long way in fancying up your bathroom for guests. Choose a mild scent that could work with any season, such as oat milk or honey.

• Gourmet Pasta: Keep a bag of fancy-shaped pasta or another starch in your basket.

• Pickles: A jar of picked peppers, veggies, or olives make for great gourmet additions to your appetizer platter or dinner.

• Flavored Syrup: Vanilla syrup can be added to cocktails, coffee, or even soda. Just a splash goes a long way.

• Spice Blend: A versatile spice mix or season salt is important to keep aside as it can be used on anything from roasted potatoes to pot roast.

• Fancy Votives: I always keep a collection of fancy votives aside to place on my mantle, tablescape, or in my powder room. Don’t forget the tea lights and a lighter!

• Place Card Holders: These little pigs work season to season and are cute enough to give everyone a little giggle.

Photography: Sawyer Baird | Styling: Simply Charming Socials | Desgin: Simply Charming Socials

As much as your wedding is about you and your beloved starting off your happily ever after, you also want to make sure your guests have a good time. This couple did just that, using the pineapple, a sign of hospitality, as a theme throughout the day. And the result is truly beautiful thanks to gorgeous flowers from A Garden Party and these stunning photographs from Michelle Lange in The Vault!

Share this gorgeous gallery on

 

From Michelle Lange…The couple fell in love with Fernbrook because it’s an 18th century home with a lot of character…it reminded them of an estate that could be found in the South. Their vision for the wedding was a “garden party” at an estate, which was beautifully decorated with florals by A Garden Party. A highlight was the floral chandelier that hung from the ceiling. The couple incorporated pineapples as a sign of hospitality, wanting everyone to feel welcomed cared for, and loved on their big day. The bride also grew up with pineapples all around her home, which reminded them of beautiful Williamsburg and all things colonial. The hospitality didn’t just stop with the pineapples, as they implemented elements that would accomplish this, welcome refreshments before the ceremony, a fun pizza truck, lawn games, and a donut bar with homemade ice-cream for dessert. They really wanted their guests to enjoy themselves and know the details were planned for them.

Photography: Michelle Lange Photography | Floral Design: A Garden Party | Wedding Dress: Essense of Australia | Cake: Inn At Fernbrook Farms | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Bill Levkoff | Hair: Bella Angel, LLC | Groom's Attire: Tommy Hilfiger | Venue: Inn At Fernbrook Farms | Bridal Boutique: Jay West Bridal

Your home is full of trinkets and treasures, and the best way to display them? Inside these gorgeous Havana Glass Display Boxes from Birch Lane. With gilded edges and assorted sizes, anything you display inside these boxes is sure to look beautiful. Enter below for your chance to win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

To enter, simply enter your email into the widget above. The Sweepstakes ends at 11:59 p.m. EST on February 2, 2016. Open to legal residents of 50 United States and the District of Columbia who are 18 and older. Limit one (1) entry per person per day. One (1) winner will be selected in a random drawing the following day and will receive a Birch Lane Havana Glass Display Boxes valued at $149. By entering, you confirm you have read and agree to the Official Rules.

When you have two beautiful New Zealanders saying “I do” in a site as stunning as the Greek Island of Crete, it’s kinda guaranteed to be good. And with White Ribbon Boutique Events Coordination leading the way, the goodness just gets even better. From this romantic bouquet to a night full of dancing, I sit here pouring over Anna Roussos’ pics, wishing I had been a guest. See it all in our VAULT right this way!

Share this gorgeous gallery on

 

From the Bride… Like all good stories it started with amazing wine and food. Jonny was working on a big project away from home with my cousin and we would often spend the weekends away as a group eating and drinking. I guess it was during this time together that we realized how similar we were and our relationship grew. I was so surprised when Jonny proposed I didn’t believe him at first. We had gone to a beautiful resort in Fiji for my birthday week and we were having bubbles in our bure, he cleverly crafted a ring out of the champagne cage and before I knew it was down on one knee proposing with his creation.

Jonny had always talked about eloping, but we wanted to include our families, so instead we chose Greece so we could have a small traditional Greek ceremony, since Jonny is Greek and a big party with everyone when we got back. It was the best of both worlds. Although organizing a wedding from so far away was tricky and we couldn’t visit any of our vendors before the wedding, it was outweighed by the positives.

I had never been a girl that had imagined my wedding before I was engaged, but once I started looking at weddings abroad, I had a clear idea of what I wanted. I loved Anna Roussos’ style of photography, with the beautiful soft light and knew from the get go, she was a must have.

I had always wanted an alfresco courtyard dinner and with the glorious days in Rethymno we were all able to sit out in the courtyard till the early hours of the next morning without once thinking about the temperature. We chose Crete as it has a more rural feel than some of the other islands, and a lot greener which reminded me of home.

Agreco Farm was absolutely picture-perfect with an amazing courtyard and landscape. Also they had the cutest chapel on the grounds which we were able to use, we couldn’t all fit inside so we were married in the late afternoon sun in front of it, by the local Priest. There is a lot of paper work to get sorted with a traditional wedding in Greece, so we were very happy to have White Ribbon Boutique Events help for this.

Since we were unable to source everything we needed in Greece, so we did some DIYing and we organized some details from New Zealand like stationery, linens, lights, etc.

While we had our photos taken, our guests were entertained with a tour of the farm. Agreco makes all its own products like wine, olive oil, raki and honey. I don’t think our guests even noticed we were missing as they enjoyed tasting the local produce and visiting the farm animals.

The food was amazing in traditional Cretan style. Being proud kiwis we brought our gorgeous Central Otago Pinot Noir and a couple of other Prophets Rock wines which paired perfectly with the quail, lamb and suckling pork all organically grown on Agreco farm.

Later, there was even time for a lesson in traditional Greek dancing! We will never forget our trip and how special the locals made us feel.

[dotted]

More dreamy destination weddings this way!

Photography: Anna Roussos | Event Planning + Design: White Ribbon Boutique Events | Wedding Dress: Custom Made By The Bride | Invitations: D & D Letterpress | Bride's Shoes: Tony Bianco | Rings: Anna Sheffield Bridal | Calligraphy: Michaela McBride Calligraphy | Venue: Agreco | Groom's Accessories: Hugo Boss | Groom's Shoes: Rivieras | Groom’s Attire: Harrolds Melbourne | Invitation Artwork: Moena Moxham | Linen Rentals: Matha's | Ribbon: Silk and Willow | Veil: Alison Blain | Wedding Crowns: Anna Marguerite

In keeping with today’s unofficial theme of lakeside celebrations, this next rustic wedding is one you won’t forget. Photographed by Joel Serrato, filmed by Elysium and planned to the nines by Laurie Arons, it’s a day set on California’s Lake Combie which just so happens to be the spot this couple shared their first kiss years earlier. We’re tipping our hats to A Day In May, Valley Flora, TEAM, La Tavola, Curlicue Designs and all the vendors who made it happen, and heading straight to The Vault.

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/137652518 600 338]

Share this gorgeous gallery on

 

From Laurie Arons Special Events… Water is an essential element for Kristina and Devin. Both grew up around the water (he spending a lot of time in his mothers home state of Hawaii and she at her family’s summer lake house in Northern California) and each later became talented water polo players.

So it was only natural that the couple chose Kristina’s family home on Lake Combie in Auburn, California because they wanted a fun and relaxed lake front wedding. It was also the spot where they first kissed years ago as teenagers.

When it came time to say I Do, the bride and groom were married on a reclaimed wood platform surrounded by lush white and green florals. The clear blue lake served as the backdrop for their vows.

At the reception, guests dined under the stars and string lights in the family’s backyard. A mix of wood farm tables with runners and fully draped tables with wedgewood blue linens were set with gold china and flatware, and fresh natural centerpieces. Kristina and Devin cleverly named the table after bodies of water with special meaning to them.

DJ Chris Clouse kicked off dancing in front of a custom “wood wall”, assembled and cut like a beautiful stack of firewood. The Perfect Endings wedding cake with its birch bark look completed the rustic reception.

Photography: Joel Serrato Film Photographer | Cinematography: Elysium Productions | Event Planning: Laurie Arons Special Events | Floral Design: Valley Flora | Wedding Dress: Rivini | Cake: Perfect Endings | Invitations: A DAY IN MAY DESIGN | Catering: Jackson Catering | Hair + Makeup: TEAM Hair and Makeup | Calligraphy: Curlicue Designs Calligraphy | Lighting: Illusions Lighting | DJ: Chris Clouse | Ceremony Music: Synchronicity Strings | Venue: At Home | Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Classic Party Rentals | Sound: Delicate Productions | Tailor + Steamer: Heidi Johnson

[dotted]

More Rustic Celebrations This Way!

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

Elysium Productions

View Portfolio

Joel Serrato Film Photographer

View Portfolio

Laurie Arons Special Events

View Portfolio

Set aside your plans for champagne come February 14 and instead toast your love with this yummy cocktail. Served up by H&H Weddings + Color Pop Events, it is anything but ordinary; in fact, it can best be described as downright delicious or maybe even dangerously delicious. Yeah that might be a bit more accurate. It’s delicate and punchy all in one little copper mug and pays extra nice with macarons.

Color Pop Events and H&H Weddings have teamed up to create a year-long cocktail series featuring unique cocktails for various holidays. Our February cocktail celebrates, what else, Valentine’s Day! We didn’t want to create a vignette that was predictable and pink, so instead we chose a white and copper color palette. We achieved the look with copper moscow mule mugs, white flower petals and copper dusted macarons. We couldn’t have been more pleased with how this delicate yet punchy cocktail turned out!

Erin LepperdOld Fling

prep time 5 Minute/s

cook time

total time 5 Minute/s

Serves 0Ingredients

• Egg white
• 1.5 oz Vodka
• .5 oz Marie Brizard White Crème de Cacao
• .5 Cointreau Liqueur
• .5 oz lemon juice

Instructions

1. Combine ingredients in a shaker.
2. Dry shake vigorously.
3. Add ice, shake to chill and strain into a coup glass.

Photography: Alexis June Weddings | Event Planning: H&H Weddings | Flowers: Days Of May | Alcohol: Equality Vodka | Cocktail: Purslane Catering | Design, Styling And Coordination: Color Pop Events | Macarons: Swallow My Words | Paper: Smoochie Paper | Styling and Rentals: Octavia & Brown

We’re in the thick of award season, which means heartfelt acceptance speeches, fabulous after parties, and of course, the red carpet looks we’ve been waiting for all year. Now if we happened to be on that nomination list, you know our style game would be on point. And while we’ll happily stick to our wedding blogger day job, these are the gowns we’d rock on our totally hypothetical red carpet.

Gowns We'd Wear on the Red Carpet

View Slideshow

Gowns We'd Wear on the Red Carpet

View Slideshow

P.S. The only thing better than a red carpet worthy gown is the perfect makeup look to go with. Watch below for the only video tutorial you’ll ever need to mastering the classic red lip!

Not to brag, but we have the best job ever. Why? Because every single day we get to read love stories. But these aren’t just any love stories – they’re your love stories and today we’ve rounded up a few that have completely stolen our hearts. From a 66 year anniversary, to plenty of cute-meet sweeties, we’re firm believers that with every great love comes a great story and we’ve got a few of our faves below!

20 Best Ever Love Stories

View Slideshow

20 Best Ever Love Stories

View Slideshow

[dotted]

See even more head-turning trends here!

I’ve planned and attended my fair share of bridal showers the past few years so it’s safe to say I have some advice to share with any newbies out there. From cute cocktails to decor that shines (but not brighter than the bride-to-be), here’s our SMP checklist for all bridal shower essentials.

1. Theme + Decor:

First and foremost, to get the planning started, you need a style, and when deciding on this theme, it should reflect the bride-to-be and her personal passions and preferences. Does she love all things French? How about a chic Parisian tea party? Do we have a brunch lovin’ babe? Pour those mimosas and let bright colors inspire you!

2. Invitations:

With the theme decided, share that style via your invites for all the lucky ladies in attendance.

3. Food:

Let the theme continue to inspire your planning – even with the cuisine. Is it a sit down meal or are apps enough? What are the bride-to-be’s favorite bites? Always plan for a bit more food than you think you’ll need – unwrapping gifts makes all ladies hungry!

4. Drinks:

While it’s obvious to plan for cocktails and boozy beverages, make sure to also provide non-alcoholic liquids for those who may not want to imbibe …and for when you need to rehydrate and refresh.

5. Favors:

I’ve received some odd favors in the past, and I’ve also received some super cute ones. The winners? They remind me of that fun afternoon I had toasting my girlfriend. They stuck with a theme and are often an item I continue to use to this day (or they were a tasty treat that was quickly devoured!).

6. Games:

While some games can lean more on the side of awkward and uncomfortable, we’re fans of some sort of activity for guests to partake it when they aren’t eating or watching the lady of the hour unwrap presents. You can’t go wrong with simple, sweet games that still center on the theme. Example: for a foodie shower I attended, we all got giggly guessing different spices by scent alone.

7. Designated Spot for Gifts:

It’s the day of and you’re setting everything up – don’t forget that all so important spot for gifts! And remember, many registry items are LARGE so make sure this space can accommodate!

8. Coat Check + Handbag Hot Spot:

With all the ladies arriving anytime, there’s one other area to prep. Because these ladies aren’t arriving alone – in addition to the gorgeous gifts, they’ll be toting their own handbags and maybe even coats, umbrellas and boots – don’t’ let these items ruin your decor – have a spot specially designated to keep all possible outerwear out of the way.

9. Picture Perfect Spot:

It’s time to pop the bottles and enjoy! Scope out some great spots for pics that avoid any backlighting or distractions so that your bff can ensure some high quality photos to remember all the fun.

10. Hashtag:

And along those lines… with everyone snapping cute shots, sharing and posting, it’s not too early to give that wedding hashtag a little practice. Or tweak it a bit and use it just for the bride’s shower and bachelorette!

Bridal Shower Details

View Slideshow

Bridal Shower Details

View Slideshow

[dotted]

Beautiful bridal shower inspo this way!

When I look back at my own wedding celebration there are so many memorable moments but guess what? Some of my absolute favorites didn’t even happen that day but instead during our honeymoon. Blissfully exhausted from the wedding activities, we jetted off to St. Lucia and it was amazing. With winter still holding strong, we all could use a little vacation inspiration, so we rounded up all our SMP ladies to share their post-nuptial vacays – let the romantic wanderlust begin!

SMP Editors' Honeymoons

View Slideshow

SMP Editors' Honeymoons

View Slideshow

[dotted]

More honeymoon inspiration + advice this way!

Get ready to meet some of the sweetest grown-up (sort of) versions of conversation hearts. From macarons to balloons on a stick to piñatas, and even leggings! this round-up might win the fun-factor award of the week. Get clicking below for all things conversation heart-inspired!

Conversation Heart-Inspired Ideas

View Slideshow

Conversation Heart-Inspired Ideas

View Slideshow

[dotted]

Find more Tasty Treats here!