Rhode Island Weddings

There is no denying it, a wedding in Newport is always magic, but when it takes place at the stunning OceanCliff Hotel with EFD Creative – Event Planning & Design at the design helm and Allegro Photography behind the lens, everything just gets that much more special. Not a detail was missed during this elegant day, and it’s all waiting for you right here. See even more in the VAULT.

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From EFD Creative – Event Planning & Design…It was an honor to be part of Sally and David’s Thanksgiving wedding weekend. The goal was to create a warm and intimate atmosphere, and the Ocean Cliff Inn was the perfect location. With the property privately tucked away from the road on one side, and the water views on the other, it was exactly what the couple wanted to create a home style personal environment.

For the overall design we wanted to take advantage of the beauty of the Inn and incorporate the couple’s personal touch on the day. Blues combined with golds and flowers to compliment, together it created an overall beauty that was highlighted throughout with candlelight.

When you entered the venue you had the experience of being in your own personal home and having this wedding on the Thanksgiving weekend – it truly made it feel like it was a home away from home.

From Allegro Photography…Sally and Dave chose to celebrate their wedding in Newport right after Thanksgiving with two days of spectacular events. The timing was perfect for their family and friends and everyone enjoyed gathering together in this beautiful locale.

As photographers, we figured there was no chance of us getting outside for photos at that time of year. But Sally and Dave had great luck- the weather on Friday (part 1 of their festivities) was gorgeous. We were able to do their first look outside overlooking the water as well as their couple portraits and family portraits. As the day turned to night, we were treated to even more beauty- from a spectacular sunset during their wedding vows to the warmth of candlelight for their reception.

Photography: Allegro Photography | Cinematography: readyset[film] | Event Planning + Design: EFD Creative - Event Planning & Design | Floral Design: Flowers By Semia | Wedding Dress: Pnina Tornai | Cake: Something Different Cake Couture | Invitations: Invitations & Company | Makeup: Jane Sincere | Hair: Jude Supplice | Lighting: Suzanne B Lowell Lighting Design | Band: Night Shift Entertainment | Transportation: Rockstar Limo | Venue: Regatta Place | Rentals: Rentals Unlimited

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.

Photography: Janet Moscarello Photography | Cinematography: Mike Picard Videography | Floral Design: Sarah Rodgers Florals | Wedding Dress: Cosmobella | Cake: Mad Hatter Bakery | Invitations: Minted | Ceremony Venue: Saint Mary's Church | Reception Venue: Our Lady Of Mercy Chapel | Hair + Makeup: The House Of Makeup | DJ: All That Events

Her vision was to make her guests feel like they walked into a vintage Christian Dior perfume advertisement, and after spending some serious quality time with these gorgeous images from Christian Oth Studio, I think it’s safe to say this stunning Bride succeeded. With the absolutely perfect venue, Rosecliff Mansion, the talents at Stoneblossom whipping up some swoon-worthy blooms and Em Devaud Events making sure not a detail was missed, this gallery defines elegance.

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From The Bride…I had a specific image in mind for our wedding from the very beginning! I wanted it to be an experience, to feel like you’ve walked into a vintage Christian Dior perfume advertisement – French, feminine and classic. The first step towards my vision was our venue which was modeled after Versailles – I’d say it’s the next best thing to getting married in Europe! The Parisian-style mansion and ballroom excited me and my husband since our first visit to Newport, RI. We knew this was it. Alex and I had met in dental school at Boston University. Today, we live and practice in NYC. Since I grew up in the NYC area, and Alex in Boston, we decided that Newport would be the perfect meeting point for our family and friends. Likewise, we think it’s one of the most beautiful summer destinations in the Northeast, and we were excited to offer that experience to our guests.

The beautiful venue was my inspiration for the remainder of the wedding planning. The flowers were lush and romantic, with soft pinks and whites amidst the golden ballroom. We had my dad’s vintage Jaguar parked in front as guests arrived and walked through the rose garden, past outdoor French Victorian furniture and down the staircase to the ceremony, while a string quartet was playing “Moonlight Serenade” by Glenn Miller. I ended up designing my dress since I couldn’t find exactly what I was looking for. I matched a lace corset top to a tulle skirt by Pnina Tornai. Alex wore a Ralph Lauren Tuxedo. I matched my mom’s and bridesmaids’ dresses to the characteristically French pink-and-white-striped awning over the balcony where cocktail hour was held. I also used the awning as inspiration for the guests’ welcome bags. For cocktail hour, we had a Gypsy Jazz band play music we felt would transport our guests to a 1930s-style Woody Allen film. Our signature drink was inspired by Rosecliff itself – a Cardamom Rose cocktail. The ballroom was lit in a soft blush glow to go along with the color scheme and we danced the night away to the amazing Kenny Ford band from Hank Lane! Guests took pictures in a fresh rose-draped photo booth, and ended the night in a dessert room filled with crepes, French macarons, pink cotton candy and our red velvet wedding cake. It truly was a dream come true!

Photography: Christian Oth Studio | Cinematography: Hello Super Studios | Event Planning: Em Devaud Events | Floral Design: Stoneblossom | Wedding Dress: Kleinfeld Bridal | Cake: Confectionary Designs | Invitations: Petite Paperie | Shoes: Rene Caovilla | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Catering: Blackstone Catering | Makeup: Natalie Shafie Makeup | Hair: Rachael Rubin | Lighting: Ormonde Productions | Band: Hank Lane Music | Groom's Attire: Ralph Lauren | String Quartet: Gig Masters - PartyPosh | Venue: Rosecliff Mansion | Bridal Boutique: Kleinfeld Bridal | Furniture Rentals: New England Country Rentals | Groom's Alterations: Monsieur Brunold | Gypsy Jazz Band: Gig Masters - PartyPosh | Ketubah: Reyna's Paper Dolls Etc | Photo Booth: Candid Photo & Video Booth | Rentals: Rentals Unlimited | Teeth Whitening: Dr. Alex Vasserman

This glamorous Newport wedding is an absolute fairytale—the Rosecliff Mansion setting, the Carolina Herrera gown, and gorgeous hand-lettering from Laura Hooper Calligraphy. And, if this day is a fairytale, then the fairy godparents were Details With Love, who planned the whole fabulous affair, and Christian Oth Studio, who captured it all beautifully. See all the pretty in The Vault!

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From The Bride…Joe and I were reluctantly (mostly on my part) set up by two of our best friends. They had been dating for a few months, and put their heads together to try their hand at match making. Fortunately for us, it worked. When we began dating I was living in Boston and Joe was living in Rhode Island. Since we couldn’t see each other all the time, we spent our weekends checking out the latest foodie spots in Boston, walking around gorgeous little Back Bay neighborhoods, and spending summer weekends in Newport.

Joe proposed almost three years to the day that we began dating. We had dinner at the North End restaurant where we had our first official date. He proposed in the governor’s suite at the Boston Harbor Hotel surrounded by roses and candlelight. It was nothing short of amazing.

When it came time to select a location for our wedding, we wanted somewhere that was not only meaningful to us as a couple, but also a place that could serve as a weekend getaway full of fun and festivity for our guests. A summer wedding in Newport immediately came to mind.

While we knew we wanted a wedding that embodied our fun loving, laid back personalities, we also wanted a formal venue that evoked the grandeur of Newport’s history. As soon as we drove up the majestic tree lined driveway of Rosecliff, we knew it was the perfect spot. And let’s face it, there’s nothing better than wearing a fabulous outfit while drinking champagne in Jay Gatsby’s home!

We wanted our wedding to feel classic, romantic, and glamorous, with a vintage twist. The design ascetic of the wedding began with selecting my lace, peach toned, Carolina Herrera gown. To me, the dress embodied everything that I wanted my wedding to evoke – softness, glamour, and old world beauty. From there we selected amazing hand calligraphy Sugar Paper wedding invitations, swapping out the matching white envelope for a peach one. We also chose flowing, off the shoulder Amsale bridesmaid dresses in a similar color.

It was very important to us that we let the beauty and grandeur of Rosecliff speak for itself. We collaborated with Dennis Delsignore of Stoneblossom Floral and Event Design to create a soft, romantic color palate throughout. We utilized florals in shades of cream, blush and peach, with accents of greenery and draping dendrobium orchids. Touches of gold were utilized throughout to bring in the amazing ceiling and fixtures around the room. Gorgeous table linens from La Tavola added texture and helped to accentuate the overall design ascetic. To top it off, lighting in a warm, golden tone was utilized to bring it all together.

I collaborated with our amazing wedding planner, Kristin Love of Details With Love, to add elements throughout the wedding that our guests may not have seen before. We opted to have an ornate gold-framed mirror made in lieu of escort cards, on which table seating was written with hand calligraphy. A flowing garland of greenery and flowers was draped around the mirror as an accent. Our welcome boxes contained a note and customized watercolor map highlighting all of the places in Newport that we love to visit as a couple. We also arranged to have a gourmet taco food truck (one of Joe’s favorites) arrive towards the end of the evening to send our guests away with a little post bubbly snack!

Our wedding day couldn’t have been more perfect from start to finish. The day began with breakfast and mimosas while the team at Jennie Kay Beauty made us all feel and look so beautiful. By the time I was finished getting ready, I put on my custom Prada shoes (complete with my new initials on the bottom!) and with help from my mother and sister, slipped into my dress.

Our traditional Greek Orthodox ceremony was held in a tiny Greek Orthodox Church in downtown Newport. Following the ceremony, old-fashioned trolleys transported guests to Rosecliff, where they were met by waiters holding coupes full of champagne. Guests were then welcomed to the back lawn where amazing views, delicious appetizers, and a champagne bar awaited them.

We spent the rest of the evening making memories with our loved ones, snapping hilarious pictures in the photo booth, and dancing the night away to the unforgettable sounds of Vali Entertainment. (I’m pretty sure a rap battle broke out at one point!)

None of this would have been possible without our amazing parents, vendors, and of course our fantastic wedding planner. We couldn’t have asked for a more spectacular wedding, and it was the perfect way to kick off our life together as husband and wife.

Photography: Christian Oth Studio | Cinematography: Christian Oth Studio | Event Planning: Details with Love | Floral Design: Stoneblossom | Wedding Dress: Carolina Herrera | Cake: Ana Parzych Cakes | Invitations: Sugar Paper Los Angeles | Stationery: Heather Belle Ink | Bride's Shoes: Prada | Catering: Russell Morin Fine Catering | Hair + Makeup: Jennie Kay beauty | Calligraphy: Laura Hooper Calligraphy | Band: Vali Entertainment | Venue: Rosecliff Mansion

Newport, Rhode Island is synonymous with classic glamour and exceptional elegance. Housed in a mansion on Newport’s famed Cliff Walk, The Chanler at Cliff Walk is no exception, offering twenty distinctive Newport hotel rooms elegantly decorated in various period styles. With expansive lawns, an open air terrace and grand, glamorous architecture inside and out, The Chanler at Cliff Walk is the perfect venue for any New England wedding.

Sparkling views of the Atlantic will dazzle you and your guests from any one of the three ceremony and reception options, and on-site planning and event services will work to ensure your wedding day at The Chanler at Cliff Walk is every bit as beautiful as the venue itself.

What are you waiting for? Start planning your happily ever after and dream wedding today at The Chanler at Cliff Walk!

Get your tissues ready, because the reason this couple chose Newport’s Castle Hill Inn to host their wedding is sure to bring a tear to your eye. But as soon as you see this Bride and Groom’s love and all the pretty details from Eventfully Planned and Sayles Livingston Flowers, the only tears you’ll be shedding will be tears of joy. See it all—from the maple syrup favors (he’s Canadian!) to the gorgeous Romona Keveza gown—from Erin McGinn in THE VAULT!

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From Erin McGinn…Katherine and Chris’s wedding had a fun garden party vibe, with vibrant kelly green, nautical navy, and sweet pink touches, all carried together with a custom crest monogram created by Penmagic and appeared on everything from the invitation to cocktail napkins and the bar.

From The Bride…Our focus was always on a fun celebration of marriage, love and happiness with our friends and family. As I’m Irish Catholic, I have a huge family on both sides (26 first cousins!). My family always had an open door policy when I was growing up and welcomed everyone in the neighborhood over at any time. I have continued that tradition in our new house in Chicago and we are always entertaining whether it is a summer bbq, hosting bachelorette parties or our now annual Christmas extravaganza. We wanted the wedding to be a big gathering of everyone we love most in the world!

My mother passed away when I was 21 and Newport was always a special location for her and our family. She attended college at Salve Regina and my parents were married in Newport in the middle of a snowstorm in January. We still have family and friends in the area and return every year to visit. Newport will always have a place in my heart and I couldn’t wait to share it with Chris when we started dating.

I always wanted to get married in Newport and follow in my parent’s footsteps. I chose our venue (in my head!) when I was with my father at an event at Castle Hill. It was the year after my mother passed away and we were there for a research benefit for the Dana Farber Cancer Institute where she had received treatment. I remember looking across the lawn and falling in love with the ocean view and charm of the Inn. When it came time to look at venues for the wedding, we did not even bother to look at other places as I had my heart set on Castle Hill for years. I read somewhere that it was a trend in 2015 to “personalize weddings” and I thought that was the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard. How could a wedding not be personalized? When I originally thought about the wedding and style, I wanted it be reflective of us as a couple and be a fun and unstuffy event. For example, I wanted the cocktail hour to have a slider bar and late night grilled cheeses. I want people to be able to wear whatever they wanted and be comfortable. I want everyone to dance the night away to Motown classics and take cheesy photos in the photo booth and leave with a big smile on their faces!

Chris is from Vancouver, Canada so we also wanted to make sure we brought in some of his style as the wedding was held in Rhode Island. To showcase his love of the outdoors and camping, we will have smores outside on fire-pits. We also brought in mini bottles of maple syrup as favors that included tags that directed guests to their seats. He has memories of tapping the sap with his grandfather and making maple syrup as a young boy. If anyone has seen Chris at another wedding, they also know he loves air guitar so we have blowup guitars to pass out on the dance floor so everyone can mimic his signature move.

I’m not a crafty person but was saved by one of my girlfriends who provided all of our DIY items as a wedding gift including cocktail napkins, koozies, straws and all of the signs. I found our paper & calligraphy vendor on Etsy and Brenda at Penmagic saved the day. In additional to the save the date Newport maps and invitations, she designed a special crest for us incorporating our initials. We used this crest as a beginning design point for all different items including napkins, the program, thank you cards, table numbers and it was even screened onto a flag that was given to us as a gift.

Photography: Erin McGinn | Cinematography: JB Horn | Event Planning: Eventfully Planned | Floral Design: Sayles Livingston Design | Wedding Dress: Romona Keveza Legends | Cake: Confectionery Designs | Bride's Shoes: Kate Spade | Hair + Makeup: Jennie Kay beauty | Band: Sweet Tooth And The Sugar Babies | Ceremony Music: Chris Phillips | Transportation: Viking Tours | Venue: Castle Hill Inn | Bridal Boutique: Ultimate Bride Boutique | Invitation + Paper Design (including Crest): Penmagic Cards | Lighting + Decor: Exquisite Events | Rentals: Rentals Unlimited

I’ve never really been the girl who wanted a glamorous, princess wedding (in fact, I want to elope), but there’s something about this wedding that has me completely enchanted. The stunning Rosecliff Mansion (where The Great Gatsby was originally filmed). The Bride’s Ines Di Santo dress. The oh-so-elegant reception designed by Sayles Livingston Flowers. It all adds up to one truly magestic day. Get inspired with gorgeous images from CLY by Matthew assisted by Matthew Ree in THE VAULT!

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From The Bride…To us, wedding was both a scene out of a chapter from our favorite book, and a nostalgic moment from our dreams. We kicked off the wedding celebration the day before with a picnic-style polo match. The players, Suleman, his family and friends, played as we cheered and enjoyed Ghanian, Eritrean and American cuisines–dishes representative of our cultural origins. Our venue, Rosecliff Mansion, has special significance; it was a historic home that we visited while in college. During this visit we joked about the idea of having a wedding at Rosecliff without having any clue that years later this would foreshadow our wedding. Rosecliff is also the backdrop of where the story from our favorite book, The Great Gatsby, was originally filmed. The orchids adorning various tables and corners of the venue were also symbolic. Orchids are the flowers Suleman sent me every Valentine’s Day for the past 7 years. As a tribute to our engagement, we featured Tuscan wines native to the local region where Suleman proposed. Our signature drink was a concoction created by our friends from Newport, RI using apples from their Newport orchid. On each table we placed a card to have our guests play a game of “I Spy.” With the provided disposable cameras, our guests snapped “spy” moments on the list such as a moment where the groom was caught playing with his ring or a group photo.

Photography: CLY BY MATTHEW | Cinematography: D.P. Weddings | Floral Design: Sayles Livingston Design | Wedding Dress: Ines Di Santo | Bride's Shoes: Sergio Rossi | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Watters | Catering: Blackstone Catering | Makeup: JOANNA PETIT-FRERE | Hair: Nancy V Brown | Groom's Attire: Black Lapel | Groomsmen Attire: The Black Tux | Venue: Rosecliff Mansion | Groom's Shoes: Louis Leeman | Photography - Assistance: MATTHEW REE PHOTOGRAPHY

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You know that couple who’s so effortlessly chic that basically everything they touch turns to gold? I think that’s this couple who pulled off a East Meets West Coast Black Tie Garden Party. It’s every bit as cool as it sounds, complete with wild foliage, flower crowns and farm-to-table fare. Thanks to Sally Pinera for adding these gems to our inspiration hub, The Vault.

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From Sally Pinera… This wedding is a Black Tie Garden Party where East Coast meets West Coast. With Bobby growing up in classic New England and Molly growing up in hipster Portland, Oregon, they were determined that their wedding showcase both old world glamour and new world bohemian aesthetics. The ceremony took place in the great oval room inside the Newport Country Club (a historic private golf club that hosted the first U.S. Open in 1895). Wine barrels overflowing with wild foliage lined the front of the aisle while a string trio played some of their favorite songs by Coldplay, Lana del Rey, and Kishi Bashi.

The tent was transformed into a secret garden with foliage and glass orbs hanging from above and large floral table runners cascading over the edges of each table. Hundreds of votives lighted each long farm table while vintage gold frames featuring hand painted rose watercolor table numbers with love quotes from classics such as Pride & Prejudice, Maya Angelou, Henry David Thoreau, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Rose colored quartz pieces held each guest’s calligraphy name card in place.

Guests feasted on “farm to table fare,” such as beef tenderloin, swordfish, and roasted corn & caprese salad with bundles of haricot verts. Dessert consisted of a chocolate cake with vanilla bean frosting and fresh raspberries with rose watercolor streaks and gold foil cascading down the layers. A dessert bar featured dozens of macaroons in the bride’s favorite flavors: earl grey with honey, lavender with blackberry and rose with raspberry, while miniature limoncello cones were passed around on painter’s palettes.

Guests danced the night away while a 10-piece band played everything from Frank Sinatra to Pharrell. At the end of the night, vintage trolleys took guests to their accommodations.

Photography: Sally Pinera | Coordination: Exquisite Events | Floral Design: Stoneblossom | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Bride's Shoes: Christian Louboutin | Makeup: Joanna Petit Frere | Hair: Lawrence Hamilton | Invitations + Calligraphy: Cast Calligraphy | Venue: Newport Country Club | Earrings: BHLDN | Hair Accessories: Mignonne Handmade | Veil: Saks Jandel

I have this thing for fall weddings and if the chosen colors happen to include maroon, well, I’m even more partial to the party. I didn’t think a celebration could beat those two factors, but place it at Castle Hill Inn, on a cliff overlooking the sparkling sea, and I’ve just about lost my marbles with glee. Hoo Films captured these fairytale-worthy “I do’s” and there’s no better way to start off your week. Enjoy!

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From Hoo Films… Lindsey and Rob are just the sweetest, most adorable couple ever. We had the chance to spend the evening before the wedding with them, and it was clear from the start this was going to be a fun destination wedding weekend for all who traveled to Jamestown, Rhode Island to celebrate this storybook love! This was one of the most beautiful venues I’ve seen, set near a cliff for the outside ceremony and a gorgeous tented reception. Their crowd was outgoing, fun, emotional, and ready to dance. Pretty much your perfect party mix. Lindsey and Rob light up each other’s faces and I don’t think either one of them stopped smiling the entire day. But most importantly, we all learned when Rob’s family knew for sure that Lindsey was “the One” for Rob. Rob’s brother says it was when she uttered three precious words…. “I’ll bring dessert.”

From the Bride… I wanted the wedding to be both glamorous and romantic.  The peachy-blush softness of my gown was contrasted with mixed metallics, especially champagne and rose gold.  We deepened the palette with a rich burgundy wine color for the bridesmaids dresses and added luxurious pearl and crystal textures throughout.

It was important to me to have unique touches everywhere.  We mixed traditional tall floral centerpieces with antique finds that my fiance and I spent months searching for.  They included everything from a stunningly geometric 1940s projector to an early telescope, globe and binoculars.  Each table had a theme, and a relating romantic quote to tie the elements together.  Sitting atop a vintage mirror, the pieces were draped in antique pearls, and adorned with large, soft luxurious fresh blooms. We DIY’d everything from our boxed invitations to our welcome bags, menus, programs, escort cards, guest book, and more! I loved designing every detail.  Coordination was key!

My favorite moment was our first look.  Our photographers took us through the woods to a beautiful clearing where two paths met.  I’ll never forget feeling like my heart was about to jump out of my chest between nerves and excitement as I (literally) climbed up the hill to meet him. The sun was streaming through the branches, and as soon as I saw him, all of the nerves faded away.  I could live in that moment forever. 

My favorite crafted detail was actually at our day after brunch.  I made a newspaper featuring the big news of our wedding, along with stories about the dress hunt, details of our bridal party, and activities for our guests in Newport.  It was a huge hit at brunch, and made it feel even more personal.
Our florist grows her own flowers and they were absolutely stunning.  We had cafe-au-lait dinner plate dahlias as the primary wedding flower.  They were incredible! I wanted soft romantic blooms that echoed the delicate architecture of my gown.  The blush color of my dress was so special and unique.  I felt incredible in the gown, and never wanted to take it off! My ombre blush to white cathedral veil added to the drama of the dress.  Our favors were hand crafted by our baker. She made cookies to look like some of the antiques we included in our centerpiece.  She crafted beautiful pocket watch cookies cast at 9:18 (our wedding date) and incredible antique key cookies.  She decorated our cake with lace tiers, pearls, and sugar dahlias.  It was gorgeous!

One piece of advice I’d give to brides-to-be would be to invest in your photographer and videographer.  When the day is over, the cake will be gone, the flowers will be wilted, and your dress will be hung in a closet.  Your day will be the most wonderful day in your life, and you’ll want to relive every precious detail over and over again.  I was so relieved to know that every moment was captured for us.  Before the night was over, I was so excited to watch the ceremony and the toasts over and over again on video.  Sacrifice elsewhere.  Find vendors you connect with.  Documentation is so important!

Peruse more wedding films here!

Photography: Moirae Creatives | Videography: Hoo Films | Coordination: PDR Events | Floral Design: Flowers By Semia | Wedding Dress: Romona Keveza | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jasmine Collection | Venue: Castle Hill Inn | Decor: Exquisite Events | Rentals: Rentals Unlimited

Thursdays are my favorite and today is more fabulous than ever. Not only does she work wonders here at SMP but our editor Melissa also recently said “I do” to her handsome man at breathtaking Belle Mer and we get to relish in all of Rebecca Yale’s wondrous photos for the foreseeable future. And by gosh, our girl is gorgeous – and a planning pro, from the beautiful blooms by Anchor & Grace to Casa De Perrin’s romantic rentals. Congrats Melissa, and without further ado, let’s leap into this abundance of beauty!

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From Rebecca Yale Photography… One of my favorite parts of working in the wedding industry is getting to meet and collaborate with other talented, creative and kind people. Melissa exemplifies all of those qualities to a T so I was so incredibly honored to photograph her and Shawn’s intimate Newport, RI wedding. There’s something magical about photographing intimate weddings where I get to know all the guests and can feel the love and happiness radiating off of them towards the bride and groom. The bride and groom’s portraits are always one of my favorite moments of the day and Melissa and Shawn certainly did not disappoint. They exchanged cards in a sweet emotional moment during their first look, followed by a walk on Belle Mer’s grounds to take portraits with their elegant wedding party. It was a perfect day and an absolute pleasure to capture for such a sweet couple.

From the Bride… A wedding is a thousand things all at once—a culmination of hard work in both love and planning, a beginning to the journey of marriage, a cheerful kind of chaos sprinkled with family, friends, laughter, tears, never-want-to-let-go hugs, and of course, pretty, pretty details. It’s why I love waking up each day and logging on to Style Me Pretty, an experience that I’m so blessed to be a part of and call my job. And with that ‘wedding blogger’ title I’m so thankful to have, I’ve had the chance of meeting some of the most talented vendors in the wedding industry that made every inch of our day possible—one of our happiest days yet.

We met our incredibly talented photographer, Rebecca Yale, right around the time Shawn and I were engaged. She’s one of the kindest people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting, and now call my friend. She’s poised, knows how to make you laugh, understands the moments that are important to you and oh, she’ll make you cry with her gorgeous captures, she will. My heart was filled with the biggest joy when our wedding photos arrived.

Our intimate wedding celebration was overflowing with so much love and beauty—it’s impossible to choose just one favorite moment. It began with sweet getting ready moments at our seaside venue, Belle Mer, with my girls in their floral robes from Plum Pretty Sugar. My mother buttoned up my romantic, flowing Jenny Yoo dress and placed my pearl necklace around my neck, a wedding gift from my Groom. After curling my last curl and eagerly grabbing my gorgeous bouquet designed by Leigh Anne of Anchor & Grace, I headed off for my first look with Shawn. We both loved our first look. It was a moment just to ourselves that we’ll never forget.

Our guests were greeted with music from Beat Train as I fastened my veil and headed down stairs for our ceremony. As I walked out of the door, I saw our parents, grandparents and my girls lined up, dressed to the nines and wearing ear to ear grins. It was a truly special moment to have such a parade of love ahead of me as I walked down the shell path to meet my Groom. Our ceremony, officiated by Mike Egan included a blessing of the sea and our sweet and simple vows. After nearly a decade since meeting one another, that moment was more meaningful than we could have ever imagined.

The ceremony was followed by a fun cocktail hour, bocce ball and mingling. Sarah Dennen, our coordinator at Belle Mer made each transition flow seamlessly. The bridal party entrance was by far the most entertaining moment of the night. As a joke that started during my bachelorette party, my sister (also MOH) wanted to enter like Beyonce. With two groomsmen paired to each bridesmaid, each of the trios followed suit and were introduced in (seriously funny) style. We entered the most striking room, filled with blooms by Anchor & Grace, charming tabletop rentals by Casa de Perrin, menus (and lovely invites) by Minted, quote signage by Julie Song Ink and calligraphy signage and goodies by Laura Hooper Calligraphy. After dinner, we were surprised by a mini fireworks show from our generous and thoughtful friends, which was the perfect way to end the evening. It was breathtaking beyond words and we soaked in the entire day with thankful hearts!

Photography: Rebecca Yale Photography | Coordination: Belle Mer: A Longwood Venue | Floral Design: Anchor & Grace | Dress: Jenny Yoo | Shoes: Schutz | Rings: Longs Jewelers | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Joanna August | Calligraphy: Laura Hooper Calligraphy | DJ: Beat Train Productions | Favors: White Pashminas | Tuxes: Men's Wearhouse | Officiant: Mike Egan | Venue: Belle Mer: A Longwood Venue | Accomodations: The Hyatt Regency Newport Hotel & Spa | Bride's Robe: BHLDN | Bridesmaids' Hair And Makeup: Jennie Kay beauty | Cake Stand: Ebay | Cards: Sugar Paper Los Angeles | Catering And Cake: Belle Mer: A Longwood Venue | Cocktail Napkins And Drink Stirrers: Laura Hooper Calligraphy | Custom Quote Signage: Julie Song Ink | Film Processing: Richard Photo Lab | Groom's Leather Cuff Link Box: Pottery Barn | Heel Protectors: Solemates | Invitation Designer: Phrosne Ras | Invitations And Menus: Minted | Light Blue Ribbon: FrouFrou Chic | Memory Coasters: Thimblepress | Mom Gifts: Coordinates Collection | Monogram Handkerchief: Linen Whites | Registry: Zola | Robes: Plum Pretty Sugar | Seating Chart: DIY By Bride | Table Numbers And Chair Signs: BHLDN | Tabletop Rentals: Casa de Perrin | Tux Designer: Vera Wang | Veil And Jewelry: Nordstrom | Wedsite: Squarespace | Wood Signage: Laura Hooper Calligraphy

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Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

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Rebecca Yale Photography

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Chock full of lush blush botanicals, the prettiest metallic-tinged ‘maids dresses, pink Valentino Rockstuds, and what might be one of the most breathtaking veil shots I’ve ever seen — courtesy of none other than SMP-fave Ruth Eileen Photography, of course — these oceanfront Rhode Island “I Do’s” are the absolute definition of romantic. Take a peek at the full gallery here, and be prepared to swept away!

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From The Bride…Kyle and I met in 2005 in our high school gym class! I was a freshman and he was a sophomore and a mutual friend introduced us. Shortly after that, we started dating and have been pretty much inseparable since!

After almost 9 years of dating, he decided it was (finally) time to propose! He enlisted the help of some of my closest friends to help him, which really meant so much to me. My friends and I planned a “girls trip” to NYC for some pampering and fun girl time. Little did I know they had planned the whole weekend with Kyle and were getting me all dolled up to look my best when he popped the question (seriously, do I have the best friends or what??). With a ploy to go meet another friend in Central Park, the girls and I headed to Belvedere Castle where Kyle completely surprised me by getting down on one knee and popping the question while it quietly snowed around us. It was truly a magical day!

When we started looking for venues, we knew we wanted to stay within New England, as we both grew up just outside Boston and most of our family and friends still reside there. Kyle wanted our venue to be by the ocean whereas I wanted somewhere that had more of garden setting. We began researching separately and ended up sending each other the same website link to Castle Hill Inn. It was absolutely perfect with it’s sweeping lawn that overlooked the ocean – we both were able to get what we wanted! We also knew we didn’t want our guests to have to travel from the ceremony location to the reception, so the fact that Castle Hill had a gorgeous tent set-up right next to the ceremony site was another reason we knew it was perfect for us.

After finding our venue, the next biggest decision was picking our photographer, which really ended up being one of the easiest decisions we made throughout the whole wedding planning process! I actually found Ruthie on none other than Style Me Pretty. I was browsing through their local vendors list and as soon as I clicked on her site and saw gold polka dots on the front page, I knew it was meant to be! Oh and the fact that she takes amazing photos! :) When we met Ruthie for the first time, we hit it off right away and left our meeting knowing we had found the perfect photographer. She was so helpful throughout the whole process, I honestly do not know what I would have done without her!

Overall, I knew I wanted our big day to feel inviting, intimate, romantic, and a little glamorous (without being too stuffy)! Thankfully Kyle let me take the lead with color schemes and most of the details so I stuck with my favorites: pale pink, ivory, and gold. I also knew I wanted my bridesmaids in different pale pink/blush beaded gowns, so I rounded up a whole lot of options for them to pick from and then we narrowed it down from there who would wear which one. This worked out so well because the girls were able to purchase dresses that fit their body type and were comfortable wearing. They all looked stunning!

When it came to finding my dress, it was surprisingly an easy process. I didn’t really know what to expect when I went shopping for the first time, but I can say I had a TON of fun trying on beautiful gowns! While I tried on various different styles and silhouettes, I knew I wanted a strapless ball gown with a sweetheart neckline. My goal was to find a dress that had the perfect balance of classic and modern, and the instant the saleswoman helped me into that Amsale “Dahlia” gown, I knew that was it. I had butterflies in my stomach and instantly started to get a little teary-eyed (and silently kept praying in the dressing room that my mom would love the dress as much as I did!!). That feeling of “when you know you know” was SO true for me!

The flowers were soft and romantic and really created that intimate feeling we were going for by incorporating a lot of white and pale pink and some greenery. Joyce at Stoneblossom Florals created the most beautiful arrangement that was placed on the arch at the ceremony site. It was truly breathtaking and was the talk of the night amongst all of our guests! We used large baby’s breath arrangements for the head table (repurposed from the large arrangements that sat at the beginning of the aisle during the ceremony) with smaller floral arrangements in between. Lush arrangements sat in gold vessels on round tables that went oh-so perfectly with the beautiful lace table clothes!

Everything came together so well and the whole day went off without a hitch! We feel so lucky to have worked with such amazing vendors to help create our perfect day!

Photography: Ruth Eileen Photography | Coordination: Castle Hill Inn | Floral Design: Stoneblossom Floral and Wedding Design | Wedding Dress: Amsale | Cake: Confectionery Designs | Invitations: The Paper Source | Bride's Shoes: Valentino | Rings: Amoroso's Jewelers | Catering: Castle Hill Inn | Favors: Niagra's Honeymoon Sweets | Groom's Attire: Milton's | Transportation: Viking Tours | Venue: Castle Hill Inn | Bridal Boutique: Cristina's Bridal | Bride's Clutch: Kate Spade | Cake Topper: Foxblossom Co. | Earrings: Oscar De La Renta | Frames: TJ Maxx | Groomsmen Socks: Happy Socks | Mason Jars: The Retro Redhead | Menus: An Elegant Affair | Mr And Mrs Signs: Z Create Design | Paper Straws: Pop Up Parties Shop | Place Card Holders: Graceful Events | Rentals: Rentals Unlimited | Ring Bearer Sign: Linen & Lace | Signs: Sweet Peony Press | Signs: Keep Life Simple Design | Table Numbers: Blessed Blondies | Wedding Program Template: Xo BSpoke

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Stoneblossom Floral and Wedding Design

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I really want to go to a New Year’s Eve wedding. Considering I hardly ever have plans that live up to the epic expectations we have for December 31st, a love-filled celebration is what I’d prefer. And I dream of going to one just like this here. With gorgeous Newport in the background, this beautiful Bride wed her handsome Groom in an elegant affair, with Carrie Rodman and Focused Bliss Productions capturing it all. Splash! got the dance floor going and if these pics are any indication, the party never stopped.

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From the beautiful Bride… Some may call us high school sweethearts, since Greg and I were both students at Ridgewood High School in New Jersey when the sparks first flew. But it wasn’t until we were college sophomores in 2009 that we decided to take the plunge with a long-distance relationship. Greg attended Gettysburg College in Pennsylvania and I was at James Madison University in Virginia. We dated all through college, and then moved to New York City, where Greg pursued a career in finance and I started working in fashion PR. Over those first years, Greg and I switched jobs, apartments, and even spent some time apart to see what Manhattan single life was like. But we kept coming back to each other, and finally moved in together on the Upper West Side in 2013.

Greg proposed that Christmas. He surprised me at the Bozeman airport in Montana, where my family was spending the holiday. He was in cahoots with my parents on travel arrangements and had flown in the day before, unbeknownst to me. He asked me to marry him on a poster which he held above his head as I came down the airport escalator on the way to baggage claim. I was shocked and overjoyed.

Our engagement was special for many reasons. Greg had been planning to propose for weeks with the help of my beautiful mom, Carol. Sadly, my mom lost her seven-year battle with breast cancer on July 5, 2014. From the moment we got engaged (and let’s be honest, years before that), to days before she passed, my mom helped me create the most magical New Year’s Eve wedding. From venue scouting and dress shopping to hand picking the candelabras and table linens, she was with me almost every step of the way in the planning process. She was determined to make my wedding day the most special day of my life, no matter how sick she felt. I know she was able to celebrate our wedding too— just from another place.

On our wedding day, my Maid Of Honor gifted me with an oil painting created from a photo of my mom and me on the day we found my wedding dress. It’s the most special present I’ve ever received, and it reminded me that she was there with me that day, and always would be.

Greg and I were married on a beautifully sunny, crystal clear, albeit cold (20 degree) Newport day. While our teeth were chattering in first look photos, the adrenaline from the day kept us warm on our trolley ride around town. We were married at 7:00 on New Year’s Eve by a Rabbi and Pastor, and together, they officiated the most perfect ceremony which included both of our families’ religious backgrounds. During our reception, we barely stepped off the dance floor— it was packed all night long! Our incredible band, Splash!, played Auld Lang Syne and counted down as the clock struck midnight. It was, of course, my favorite New Year’s kiss to date!

2014 was a year we will never forget, but 2015 marked a fresh start for me, and more importantly, our new family.

Photography: Carrie Rodman Wedding Photography | Videography: Focused Bliss Productions | Wedding Planning: Bride | Floral Design: Toni Chandler | Wedding Dress: Wedding Salon Of Manhasset | Stationery: The Write Occasion | Bride's Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Monique Lhuillier | Hair And Makeup: SERAI Beauty | Lighting: Gateway Productions | Band: Wilson Stevens | Transportation: Viking Tours | Wedding Venue: Regatta Place | Baked Goods: Scrumptions | Photography Editing: Sesha NYC/LA | Rentals: Rentals Unlimited | Wedding Rings: Corinne Jewelers

Set inside a gorgeous ballroom, overflowing with sparkling blush details, and helmed by a hilarious Groom and princess-lookalike Bride, there’s no way that this wedding from Eventfully Planned wasn’t going to be one for the books. After they said “I Do,” the Boston Common Band had guests dancing all night long, while M. Studios caught it all in the gallery right here. We know you want to, so take a peek!

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From M. Studios…They met at a bar called Snickers. Years later they married at Belle Mer. Along the way Jen and John had many adventures and fell madly in love with each other. Their wedding day invoked the beauty, romance and happiness that these two share. Jaime at Eventfully Planned made sure that no detail was left unattended which made our job that much easier. It also didn’t hurt that the talented makeup artists at Jennie Kay Beauty transformed Jen into the most beautiful Disney Princess. We are sure this isn’t the look Jen went into her makeup trial asking for but take a look at this stunning beauty and tell us that she’s not the fairest of them all! Some people say that all the groom has to do is show up on the wedding day, not THIS groom! John was just as involved as Jen. He knew the timeline by heart and kept us all on track and in stitches. This guy is truly the life of the party and so, so nice.

Before we even arrived at Belle Mer we traveled all around Newport with the talented David Bettencourt shooting video. Beginning at the Mill Street Inn, a former nineteenth century mill that combines historic charm with today’s modern luxuries, we captured the delicate details of Jen’s styling. John was a few suites away and we witnessed a sweet exchange of gifts between the bride and groom. We took a quick walk over to the grounds of Trinity Church for a first look and some formal portraits with the wedding party and then moved on to Ochre Court at Salve Regina. This stunning building serves as the administration building for the university but it’s like no administration building you’ve ever been to. Nestled among the incredible mansions of Newport’s Bellevue Avenue, Ochre Court was once the summer residence of a prominent New York banker. With hushed tones John and Jen stole some quiet moments and a private dance surrounded by details inspired by French Gothic chateaux and churches.

Next was Belle Mere for the ceremony with the sea and the Newport Bridge as the backdrop. Guests are always blown away by this venue. It’s absolutely breathtaking. Blooms by Broadway Florist enhanced the beauty of the cocktail hour and reception while the Boston Common Band had all of the guests dancing and partying into the night. To say we like this couple would be and understatement. We LOVE this couple!!

Photography: M.Studios | Event Planning: Eventfully Planned | Floral Design: Broadway Florist | Cake: Scrumptions | Reception Venue: Belle Mer: A Longwood Venue | Makeup: Jennie Kay beauty | Entertainment: Boston Common Band | Getting Ready: Mill Street Inn | Video: David Bettencourt

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Bands

Boston Common Band

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Show me a spring seaside wedding at the always beautiful Belle Mer and I’ll show you one happy bridal blogger. But add in not one, but two clips, from Long Haul Films and I’m now getting super comfortable to soak it all up. We have an abundance of glamour and romance right in front of us so let’s just settle on in for this big bundle of beauty with the pics and films below!

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From Long Haul Films… Long before Victoria slipped into that gorgeous Vera gown, we traveled to their Rhode Island home for their “I Love Us” film – not only did it give them a chance to share their sweepingly romantic story with the world, it gave us the chance to get to know Vic and Jay (and their cute little pups!). When their wedding day came around, we felt like we were spending time with old friends.

From the Bride… Think romance and think glamour! Those were the two words I was inspired by during the entire planning of the wedding. Belle Mer in Newport, Rhode Island was the first venue we looked at and booked it a day later. We wanted to get married on the water, but not in the sand so it was a perfect fit! The rest of the planning process was indeed a process. Like every bride, I had dreamed of my wedding dress since I was a little girl. I envisioned myself in a white princess ball gown. It wasn’t until after trying on approximately 30 dresses that I landed on a blush mermaid-style Vera Wang gown. The first dress I ever tried on was my favorite. So when I went back to try it on a second time at Vera Wang on Newbury Street in Boston , they no longer had the gown in the ivory color I loved. I tried on the blush dress, assuring my mother and sisters it was just for fit. All I remember is walking out of the dressing room with more excitement than anything I had felt with any of the other dresses. Before even turning around to look in the mirror, I screamed, “This is the one!” That’s how I ended up with the wedding color scheme.

All eight of my bridesmaids wore white, instead. I selected each girl’s Jim Hjelm dresses keeping their gorgeous, but different body types in mind. None of the girls saw their dresses until they were delivered a month prior to the wedding. I accessorized each bridesmaid with different jewelry and a stack of Sisco + Berluti bracelets – they’re my favorite! My handsome groom and groomsmen all wore custom-made Tom James suits. Jay wore a silver and blush pinstriped three-piece suit that complimented my gown to perfection. I wanted everyone to look and feel as good as I did.

On the evening of May 24, 2014, Jay and I enjoyed each other, our family, our friends and our hard work as we became husband and wife. The ceremony was so sentimental to us, because we included so many special people. Jay and I wrote the entire ceremony ourselves. A family friend married us, a cousin read a remembrance for Jay’s father and my grandmother, and two of our very dear friends spoke the kindest words about marriage and love. It was absolutely wonderful!

Just when we thought the night couldn’t get any more magical the reception started. The room décor was mostly white with little touches of pink and silver here and there. We danced the night away with DJ Charles Mercer and The World Premier Band. There is not a thing I would change about that night.

Photography: Long Haul Films | Cinematography: Long Haul Films | Floral Design: Broadway Florist | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Stationery: A Dollop Of Inspiration | Bridesmaids' Dresses: JLM Couture, Inc | Hair & Makeup : The Hyatt Regency Newport Hotel & Spa | DJ: DJ Charles Mercer | Band: World Premier Band | Groom's Attire: Tom James | Hotel: The Hyatt Regency Newport Hotel & Spa | Wedding Venue: Belle Mer: A Longwood Venue | Bridal Boutique: Vera Wang | Bride's Jewelry: Sisco + Berluti

From their harbor-side ceremony, to the white bed of petals covering the ground, to exchanging vows underneath a crystal chandelier canopy, every detail of this Belle Mer affair planned in the hands of Details With Love is pure perfection. It’s bursting with Greenlion Floral + Event Design centerpieces and Paper Moss loveliness, and Person + Killian Photography has it waiting for you here!

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From Person + Killian Photography… Kristin + Rob chose the stunning Belle Mer for their wedding day, a perfect venue for a modern and chic wedding on the beautiful Newport seashore.

The late afternoon ceremony took place right outside on the pristine manicured grounds, overlooking the harbor. The bride walked down the aisle which was covered in a bed of white rose petals. The couple said their “I do’s” under a crystal chandelier and beautiful sheer white canopy.

As the sun started to set everyone moved inside for the cocktail party and evening reception. Kristin + Rob kept their color scheme neutral and elegant, a perfect compliment to Belle Mer salon’s classic white walls and pillars. Their decor was a mix of blush, champagne, white, and ivory. When we asked the bride to describe her inspiration for the wedding day, she said “modern, romantic, fresh, sophisticated, and chic”! The reception was glowing with floral hi-low centerpieces and white and gold candles, a perfect portrayal of Kristin’s vision.

There was a special after party in the Belle Mer island house with a taco truck waiting as guests entered. The lighting shifted to bright purple and blue highlights that provided a beautiful contrast to the dark night sky with delicate lanterns and uplighting.

Photography: Person + Killian Photography | Flowers: Greenlion | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Cake: Confectionery Designs | Hair + Makeup: Jennie Kay beauty | Entertainment: Night Rhythm | Wedding Venue: Belle Mer: A Longwood Venue | Event Planner + Stylist: Details with Love | Invitations + Paper Products: Paper Moss | Lighting + After-party DJ: Groove Entertainment | Linens + After-party Furniture: Rentals Unlimited | Taco Truck: Mijos Tacos

When you have a venue like Rosecliff Mansion, the actual site of the original Gatsby movie, it’s not even worth trying to compete with its epic beauty. Details with Love used it instead as inspiration, sprinkling shimmer and glamour all around, making Rosecliff and this gorgeous Bride shine even more. With Greenlion Design creating works of art and Shark Pig‘s fantastic film, we’re transported back to those good ole days and these pics are putting us in the mood for some serious champagne and celebrating.

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From Details with Love… He looked at her in a way every girl wanted to be looked at.

The opulence, the mystery, the sparkle! What’s old is new again. It was important to M to have that Gatsby-era “feel” but with a modern twist. The grand Rosecliff Mansion (the one chosen for the original Gatsby film) in Newport, with its beautiful gardens surrounding it, was the perfect setting. Inspired by Gatsby quotes, pictures and descriptions from the time period, elegant fashion, and nature.

It came together styled as a stunning blend of grandeur by Details with Love and the Bride and Groom sparkled and shined!

Some of our favorite details include stylish invites by Papers of Newport and flourishing hand calligraphy by Heather Belle Ink that set the tone for the evenings event. A sparkling champagne tower full of gold brimmed flutes greeted the guests as they entered a room filled with a glam color palette of champagne and gold. Gorgeous tables adorned in 1920’s inspired gilded centerpieces by Greenlion Design and sweet French inspired confections by Confectionery Designs.

Time to drink Champagne and dance on the table!

Videography: Sharkpig | Event Design: Details with Love | Event Planning: Details with Love | Floral Design: Greenlion | Wedding Dress: Inbal Dror | Invitations: Papers Of Newport | Bride's Shoes: Rene Caovilla | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Adrianna Papell | Catering: Blackstone Catering | Calligraphy: Heather Belle Ink | Lighting: Ormonde Productions | Groom's Attire: Ermenegildo Zegna | Transportation: Rockstar Limo | Wedding Venue: Rosecliff Mansion | Bride's Hair Piece: Maria Elena | Confections: Confectionery Designs | Custom Paper Pieces: Rifle Paper Co. | Custom Welcome Gifts: Details with Love | Grooms Cufflinks: Tiffany & Co. | Grooms Shoes: Salvatore Ferragamo | Music : Hank Lane Music | Photobooth: Candid Photo & Video Booth

My hubby and I are knee-deep in planning a little Newport babymoon, and this seaside lovefest from the lens of Judy Pak has me hoping springtime rolls around, STAT. It’s every New England bride’s dream come true, with carefully curated nautical moments alongside all-white blooms styled by Stoneblossom. Kick Tuesday off right here in the full gallery.

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From The Bride… When Dave and I got engaged and started to think about our dream wedding, we knew we wanted to plan an event that would be elegant and classic with whimsical, personal touches and most of all be relaxed and fun for our guests. We live and work in Manhattan and decided we thought it would be extra special to come up with a great weekend destination – somewhere that would get people out of the city but wouldn’t be too far away for most of our guests. I had vacationed in Newport with my family growing up and had recently been back to Castle Hill Inn which is just the most magical and beautiful place – I knew it would be perfect. Dave and I took a trip to Newport and he was immediately convinced- Newport and Castle Hill would give us that perfect elegant environment for the wedding, with lots of room for fun for our guests.

We worked with Joyce Holland of Stoneblossom Florals and she became an incredibly trusted adviser and friend in planning. We weren’t stuck on any particular types of flowers but we knew we wanted the environment to feel light and soft with some minimal seaside/nautical touches. She paired lots of white and green flowers with beautiful garden roses, anenomes and other seasonal varietals which gave the perfect flecks of color for our fall celebration. She brought in tons of candles, mercury glass and other beautiful additions like lanterns and aisle decor. She was our savior! To add to Joyce’s decoration, the crew at Exquisite Events handled lighting. We picked vintage chandeliers and swathed the tent with fabric to bring the ceiling down a little lower and give it that quaint, vintage feel.

We were very lucky to have Judy Pak as our photographer. We fell in love with Judy’s signature style – light and airy, dreamy images. She captured our day to a tee from the perfectly orchestrated “first look” to those little moments that only the most skilled photographers can catch. She is a true artist.

Our cake was created by Marc and Marie Soliday/ Confectionery Designs. It was spectacular! Marie worked with Joyce to replicate the flowers in my bouquet. We were blown away when we saw it. Plus it tasted delicious. We had a most excellent band – Big Mix with Joe Shane, we brought them up from NY. I had seen them perform at a wedding many years before and they always stuck in my head. They played classic covers and even backed my husband our friend up for a little impromptu Whitesnake performance.

There were many special and personal touches throughout the weekend. From our “message in a bottle” save the dates, to our Adirondack chair escort cards (to match Castle Hill’s signature chairs) to our personalized welcome bags and signature cocktail straws, and much more, Alana Jones-Mann outdid herself in our collaboration! Alana is the queen of whimsy and details and took our visions and made them realities. She also hand letter pressed our three-piece custom invitations and created a gorgeous presentation for when they arrived to our guest’s mailboxes.

Castle Hill could not have been a more perfect venue for us. With breathtaking seaside views, the mansion and semi-permanent tent set the scene for our dream wedding. The menu was exquisite and the service is unparalleled. After the reception in the tent we hosted an after party in the mansion where our guests partied into the night. Our wedding was truly a dream, we loved every second!

Photography: Judy Pak Studio | Wedding Coordinator: Castle Hill Inn | Florist: Stoneblossom Floral and Wedding Design | Wedding Dress: Lusan Mandongus | Bride's Shoes: Prada | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Caterer: Castle Hill Inn | Makeup Artist: Christopher Ardoff | Band: The Dream Team | Wedding Venue: Castle Hill Inn

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This darling duo has got the right idea. They kept their nuptials local and proceed to throw the ultimate outdoor bash. With family and friends in attendance, the evening was filled with seasonal farm-to-table bites, circus tents, tea lights, Toni Chandler Flowers And Events arrangements and endless love captured by Meghan Sepe. Take a peek at the gallery and Sky Sabin Productions film for more!

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From Meghan Sepe…This late summer real wedding hails from Newport, RI. Words to describe this day would be rustic, natural, romantic, youthful and pretty in pink. Their video is adorable and the bride’s blush Monique Lhuillier gown is totally awesome! 

From the beautiful Bride… Dan and I actually met a long time ago, socially, but we hadn’t crossed paths in several years. A few years ago, my mom (a personal trainer) was at the gym and ran into Dan who is a physical therapist. They hadn’t seen each other in ages and in catching up, Dan asked how I was and what I was up to now. Before long, my mom was going on and on about my business ventures, things I like to do, trips I’ve taken, how I love my dog …and that I was single. Turned out Dan was also single and after hearing so much about what we had in common personally and professionally, it took him no time to reach out.

We like to say we were “reintroduced” by my mom and set up a dog walk date. It might sound funny but it was really that simple – we knew right away we were going to be together.

We live in a pretty tight community in Newport, RI where everyone knows everyone, especially those who have lived here most their lives, like us. We are both 4th generation “Aquidneck Islanders,” and both of us have large social families, so planning a wedding was a bit of an adventure! Staying local was a priority for both of us and we were lucky to be able to use my aunt and uncle’s gorgeous sprawling lawn off a country road near the beach. We wanted to throw a beautiful outdoor bash and include as many friends and family as we possibly could.

Our menu was seasonally farm-to-table and the circus tents, tea lights, wine barrels and heavy rustic tables were a perfect fit for the country, natural feel we were going for. We’re a goofy bunch, so we made an effort to keep the atmosphere laid back and fun, but also grown up and sentimental. Friends and family all helped out with hand painted signs or bailing hay, even making the cake – and EVERYONE was on the dance floor! It all came together beautifully and the celebration went well into the wee hours.

I’ve dreamt of  my wedding day since childhood and can honestly say it was hands down the happiest day of my life! I got to marry my best friend surrounded by loved ones at a place we call home… It doesn’t get any better than that.

Photography: Meghan Sepe Photography | Videographer: Sky Sabin Productions | Florist: Toni Chandler | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Bridesmaids' Dresses: J.Crew | Catering: Glorious Affairs | Makeup: Braelyn Anton | Groomsmen's Attire: Zara | Bridesmaid's Robes: Plum Pretty Sugar | Cupcakes/ Sweets: Newport Sweet Shoppe | Planner/ Coordinator: Exquisite Events | Private Home: Newport RI | Rentals: New England Country Rentals

Their morning coffee was made monumental when this Groom got down on one knee, and with family and friends in attendance the wedding that followed was marvelous. Details With Love was behind the wildly elegant day filling tables with Stoneblossom Floral & Event Design blooms, while Steve DePino snapped up every sweet moment right here!

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From Steve DePino… Kurt and Alex met on February 27, 2010 at Elizabeth in SoHo (now called The Musket Room). Kurt was attending his roommate’s going away party and Alex was there for a former co-worker’s half-marathon fundraiser. In the whirlwind of people that night, they somehow started talking and realized that not only did they work in the same industry, but also knew several people in common. The time flew by and suddenly it was time to leave their respective parties. While Kurt tried to convince Alex to leave her friends and join his party for the rest of the evening, she declined and he settled for her phone number instead. The following Monday, Alex received a text from Kurt asking her to meet up for a drink later that Wednesday. Alex wanted to accept the invitation, but was embarrassed that she couldn’t even recall his name, only pieces of their conversation. Alex decided that if she could figure out a way to properly internet stalk Kurt on Facebook, then she would accept the date. After scanning through nearly 600 Facebook friends of one of the friends they had discovered they had in common Alex spotted Kurt’s smile and decided that, now that she knew his name, she would go out with him. Alex arrived 15 minutes late (per usual) for their date that Wednesday at Cibar in Gramercy Park and Kurt already had a drink waiting for her (smart man!). The chemistry was immediate as the conversation, jokes and banter flowed very naturally. The night ended with Kurt and Alex’s first kiss and the start to one of their very first inside jokes.

Alex and Kurt knew that they would get married very early in their relationship, but wanted to wait until the moment was right to get engaged. Alex had always told Kurt that she wanted to be surprised when he popped the question, although at the same time she was getting a little anxious about when he would finally ask. With her radar on, Alex was pretty sure there was no way she would be surprised but alas Kurt found the one time, when all her guard was down, to ask her to be his wife. It was a typical Sunday morning; Kurt ran out to get their morning coffee at Le Pain Quotidian while Alex watched Fareed Zakaria GPS. When Kurt came back with the coffee he cracked a few jokes and before she knew it Kurt had put a ring on her finger. (Alex likes to remind Kurt that he didn’t actually ask, and her father says the same thing about when Kurt asked him for Alex’s hand!). Together they called all of their friends and family and went to ABC Cocina to celebrate.

Some of our favorite moments of the wedding were when Kurt’s dad threw Alex’s dad a box of tissues mid-speech because it showed how well our families get along and how we all share the same fun-loving sense of humor.

Alex smiling and giggling the whole way down the aisle because she was so excited to marry Kurt and because she was so happy to have all the most important people in our lives there to celebrate this wonderful occasion with them. It was really nice that almost everyone in attendance really knew both of us as individuals and as a couple.

Looking around and seeing all of their wonderful family and friends out on the dance floor having a ball including the Bride’s 92 year-old great Aunt (Alex’s paternal grandmother’s sister)! Alex’s paternal grandparents are no longer with us, but she is certain that the wedding was a party they would have loved and that they were toasting us with martinis from heaven. Looking around at how beautiful Champ Soleil looked. It is such a special place and we are eternally grateful to Alex’s uncles Kenny & Josh for offering their home to us for the occasion.

Welcoming Alex’s dad into the “sleeveless tuxedo club” despite the objections of some in attendance.

The sun that poked through the ominous storm clouds as we said our vows.

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Photography: Steve DePino | Event Planner + Designer: Details With Love | Photography – Assistance: Lauren Ann Isleib | Photography – Assistance: Paul McNerney | Floral Design: Stoneblossom Floral & Event Design | Wedding Dress: Reem Acra | Cake: Confectionery Designs | Reception Venue: Champ Soleil | Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Bracelet: Mikimoto | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Amsale | Catering: Blackstone Catering | Tux: Sean Vokshoor, Zohreh Inc | Earrings: Crislu 

Here’s how you plan the world’s best wedding: choose a fabulous locale like Belle Mer, assemble an amazing team of vendors that includes Sweet Monday Photography, Sayles Livingston Flowers, Jennie Fresa, Roseville Designs and The White Dress By The Shore and then dance the night away with the one you love to the amazing beats of Ripcord.  Ahhh… perfection.  Join me in the gallery for more.

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From The Bride… Matt and I met skiing in Killington, Vermont just a few weeks after Matt made the move back to the East Coast from California. We were friends at first, but it took Matt sending me to the emergency room for the real sparks to fly. It was a snowy night in Boston, where Matt and I both live, and Matt happened to slip, taking me down with him and the rest is history. A few weeks later, we went on our first date, and a couple of years later, Matt proposed. The proposal was on a perfectly magical fall weekend in Killington.

When we started planning for the wedding, we knew that we would have many friends and family traveling from near and far, so we wanted to pick a place where we knew our guests would not only enjoy our wedding day but also enjoy our wedding location. We started looking all over New England, and it wasn’t until I remembered all of my memories in Newport, Rhode Island that we considered Belle Mer. Newport, RI is one of those most beautiful cities that we have both come to love – the town is surrounded by water, and offers so much for guests to see and explore. Newport has so much to offer. From the cliff walk, where you can view the beautiful mansions of the Gilded Age, to Thames Street that is filled with shops and restaurants. When we visited Belle Mer, we both knew immediately that we could not imagine getting married any place else. The views are absolutely breathtaking. The Island House seemed to match our personalities and the overall feel we wanted for our wedding – modern and sophisticated, but also timeless and intimate.

After we both choose the location and the date, I then took over and started the journey to find the vendors I wanted to work with to make our day perfect. I have always been passionate about event planning, and while I was not the type of girl that always dreamt of her wedding day, I did always dream about the man I wanted to marry. I put Matt in charge of the band and the honeymoon. I started the rest of the planning by looking at wedding blogs, like Style Me Pretty, to get inspired. I focused on finding vendors that impressed me by what they do, but also had a true sense of kindness and a passion for their craft to make our day unforgettable. This led me to find Beth and her team at The White Dress by the Shore, Callie and her team at Modern Trousseau, Maureen & Emily thru Jennie Fresa, Sandy from Roseville Designs, Sayles from Sayles Livingston floral design, Amanda ‘The Scribblist’ on Etsy, Kiera from Sweet Kiera cookies, and last but certainly not least, April & Lindsay from Sweet Monday Photography. And of course, we were beyond lucky to have Samantha to help with all of the wedding coordination at Belle Mer. I also felt so incredibly lucky to have my Mom, bridesmaids, as well as all these fantastic vendors all by my side .

While I was not inspired by a theme, I found myself inspired by looking back at old wedding photos from my family. I wanted to have a traditional and classic ceremony, but I wanted the overall décor to be more fresh & modern. For the décor, I ended up feeling very inspired by the sea, and created my vision around sea glass. After landing on this look and feel for our wedding, I started by finding a wedding dress and then moved on to the details. For my dress, the ladies at TWD helped me find the perfect look! I ended up with a more modern silk gown from Modern Trousseau. I customized the gown by adding a full tulle overlay skirt that opened in the front and sheer tulle wrap that I wore during the ceremony. I felt like the most beautiful bride. I accessorized my gown with my Mom’s lace veil, wore my Grandmother’s vintage watch, and carried my other Grandmother’s bible with me as I walked down the aisle.

Beyond finding and working on making the perfect dress, I spent endless hours working on small customized details. I really wanted to make sure that our guests felt welcome and a part of our day. April and Lindsay did an amazing job capturing shots of all of these lovely details, and I could not be happier with how pretty everything looked! Our wedding day was a dream come true and one we will never forget. We had beautiful weather, a beautiful location and celebrated with our loved ones! My only wish is that we could do it all over again and that I could do this for a living!

Photography: Sweet Monday Photography | Floral Design: Sayles Livingston Design | Wedding Dress: The White Dress by the shore | Wedding Dress: Modern Trousseau | Cake: Belle Mer: A Longwood Venue | Invitations: Roseville Designs | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Donna Morgan | Make-up: Jennie Fresa Brow & Beauty Bar | Hair Stylist: Emily Reale | Calligraphy: V Calligraphy | Band: Ripcord | Groom's Attire: Alton Lane | Island House At Belle Mer: Belle Mer: A Longwood Venue