West Virginia Wedding Ideas and Inspiration

This Colorful Wedding Weekend at the Greenbrier Kicked off With Every Girl’s Dream Bridal Luncheon

Caroline & Teddy’s glamorous wedding weekend was bursting with color (and love) at The Greenbrier, a historic resort that holds a special place in the couple’s hearts! Cheers Darling Events incorporated bold patterns and colors into every aspect of the festivities — from the Lilly Pulitzer-esque bridal brunch to the fun-filled details on the wedding day and the casino-themed afterparty. Gillespies’ refined floral arrangements and daintiest blush linens balanced out the vivid hues of hot pink, green, and coral. See all the Southern charm, comfort, and color in the full gallery, captured by Lisa Blume Photography!

From the Bride… Teddy and I met in Washington, DC at POV when he was in town for a concert, I had just moved there from Florida. We dated long distance and I moved to Roanoke, Va when Covid allowed everyone to work remote. We got engaged on my birthday in Cabo at a beautiful restaurant on the water.

Caroline and Teddy love the The Greenbrier from trips there together but The Greenbrier has been a big part of both families traditions. Teddy’s family and grandparents grew up celebrating New Year’s and other special family occasions there. Caroline’s grandparents also spent a good deal of time at the greenbrier for business conventions. They both wanted to create a special destination weekend at a place like The Greenbrier that all their Florida/Virginia and friends from all over the country could experience the charm and hospitality of the Greenbrier Resort. Since Caroline’s from Florida and Teddy is from Virginia, they knew they wanted a spot where their friends would have a nice weekend of celebrating. We loved all the activities the Greenbrier offers. Many of their guests enjoyed the pool, golf, horseback riding, bowling, and of course the casino!

From the Bride’s mother… My favorite memory would be seeing her walk down the aisle and getting a sneak peak into the Cameo Ballroom before the guests came in . And the Sweet Caroline song on the dance floor. I loved seeing the reception before everyone entered, it was breathtaking! We could not be more pleased with our entire wedding weekend. I also loved having all of our friends and family in one place for the entire weekend, we ran into people everywhere we went which was fun!

The wedding weekend highlights included a festive family dinner Thursday evening at Prime 44, a beautiful Bridesmaid Brunch on Friday in the Presidential Suite-which was also available for first look and other special photos throughout the weekend, the rehearsal dinner and welcome party-the amazing wedding and then the CASINO afterparty. Golf for the guys on Saturday morning.

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A Very Merry Hot Pink and Green Christmas Wedding at Greenbrier Resort

What do you get when you mix Christmas spirit, hot pink, a horse drawn sleigh and the sweetest couple of all time?… this AMAZING wedding! If this festive fete at The Greenbrier Resort from Perry Vaile Photography doesn’t get you in the holiday mood – we don’t know what will. Pamela Barefoot thought of every genius holiday-inspired detail of this day, and trust us when we say there are countless! Thanks to the magic of Christmas, the next morning guests woke up to a winter wonderland straight out of a storybook! Keep on reading to unwrap all the gifts this wedding has to offer.

From Perry Vaile Photography… Courtney and Alex’s wedding was the most joyful day filled with so many incredible Christmas details. They tied the knot at the beautiful The Greenbrier, a luxury resort located in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia.

Upon arrival to the resort, guests received a welcome box with chocolate chip cookies, candy canes, seasonal alcohol, an “eat, drink and be merry in the morning” stamp, and snowflake pretzels. Guests who attended the weekend could participate in festive activities such as ice skating and a horse and carriage ride.

The bride had a tinsel tree in the bridal suite with gifts underneath for all her bridesmaids. They unwrapped the gifts to find silk monogrammed pouches with earrings inside for them to wear that day! They sipped on some bubbly (a hand painted bottle of Veuve!) while they got ready for the big day. Her bridesmaids looked absolutely gorgeous in their green velvet dresses holding pink & white bouquets made beautifully by Holly Heider Chapple Flowers LTD. Green velvet was featured not only in the bridesmaid dresses but in the reception seating and vow book too!

During the ceremony at the Greenbrier Chapel, the flower girl was pushed down the aisle in a tiny, flower-covered sleigh – how adorable is that?! After Courtney and Alex exchanged their “I do’s”, guests tossed a flurry of snow from “Joy to the World” sheet music and rang jingle bells as the couple exited the ceremony into a horse drawn sleigh. It was pure Christmas magic!

As guests made their way to the reception, a wreath escort wall helped them find their seat. At their table, each guest received vintage glass ornaments next to their place cards as a festive keepsake from the day. To satisfy those sweet holiday cravings, a decadent dessert bar featuring tall nutcrackers was covered with sleigh cookies and gingerbread cookies galore. The reception really got guests in the Christmas spirit thanks to some green Santa hats, light-up Christmas tree necklaces and tinsel halos as the band rocked out to Christmas favorites. The final song concluded with a shower of confetti snow across the entire dance floor!

Following the confetti snow reception finale, the weather forecast changed, shifting the area into major snowfall. By the time many guests awoke the following morning, a blanket of snow covered the ground. Quickly, the Greenbrier Resort found itself under 25” of snow! Guests and vendors alike were stuck to enjoy the resort for an extra day, but the bride and groom made a long, snow-covered journey through the storm and safely made it to their flight to warm Hawaii!

Check Out the Wedding That’s the Apple of Our Eye

This bohemian affair planned by East Made Event Company was held at the apple orchard owned by the bride’s family. One word: cute! What’s even cuter is the way they incorporated apples throughout the decor, from the unique gold foiled slices at each place setting to the rich red hues used throughout the day. Take a bite out of this free-spirited fête, courtesy of Love by Serena.

Colors

Seasons

Fall Weddings

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Outdoor

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Bohemian

Alex’s style is free-spirited and bohemian, so their wedding was designed with that in mind (with help from Elizabeth at East Made Event Company)! Alex’s gorgeous, flowing dress from Leanne Marshall was simply the perfect fit with her beautiful floral bouquet by Flowers Unlimited. Apples were in full bloom at the orchard, which was perfect for their wedding design with red and burgundy hues. All of the apples included in the designs were picked fresh from their orchard property. Slices of apple were cut, dried, and gold foiled to create beautiful and unique place setting decor. Originally, their wedding ceremony was to be held outdoors, but, with a scheduled forecast of rain all day, a backup plan was created to host their ceremony in the dancing tent. Everything turned out beautifully and we were able to step outside for some photos when the rain calmed to a light drizzle.

Why Finding the Perfect Wedding Vendors has Never Been This Easy

We all know that you can’t have an amazing wedding without an amazing team of vendors, but we also know that finding that oh-so-awesome dream team takes a lot of work and research. Unless, you make plans to attend the Outer Banks Meet + Greet at Sanderling Resort on Sunday, March 10th from 5 – 9 pm. It’s your chance to mix and mingle with the best in the biz, plus find those wedding pros that will turn your destination wedding on the Outer Banks into the celebration you’ve always wanted.

Duck, North Carolina is one of those vacay spots you never want to leave and Sanderling Resort sits right smack-dab in the center of all of the action. With gorgeous views, luxe accommodations and a talented staff that knows a thing or two about dream weddings, you can count on that celebration of the century to happen. Now add in a meet + greet with talented OBX Wedding Professionals, hors d’oeuvres, wine tastings, a reception style dinner and dessert samplings and it’s not just an evening planning your big day… it’s a lot of fun, too. You can even dabble in Sassy S’mores at the Firepits at the Event House. (Yum.)

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Trust us on this one, you guys – the Outer Banks Meet + Greet at Sanderling Resort is one of those events you seriously can’t miss. Mark those calendars for March 10th from 5-9 pm, then visit Sanderling Resort to purchase tickets, book rooms and learn more about getting those engagement pictures taken. You’re going to have a blast.

Your Sneak Peek At One Of Miami Beach’s Most Stylish Wedding Venues

You know what’s better than ogling over one of our fave South Beach venues? Seeing one seriously stylish duo tie the knot in that very space. We call that that a win-win, and we suggest you cozy on up for one of the prettiest weddings ever at the W South Beach. It’s one glam detail after another that will have you booking this Miami hot spot in a heartbeat.

When it comes to your Big Day, we know that finding that dream locale isn’t always easy – whether you plan on tying the knot with only a few in attendance or want to host a luxe reception in that over-the-top Miami style we all love. The W South Beach makes it so, so easy with an experienced team of wedding professionals that will help you create that statement-making event you’ve always wanted – big or small. From their breathtaking Atlantic views to their fabulous amenities to their FOUR venues (check out the tree-filled Grove, one of our faves), they have you covered. And don’t just take our word on it – take your cue from this stunning duo, who hosted what can only be described as a movie-like celebration, complete with an outdoor ceremony and a ballroom reception with dancing ’til dawn.

W South Beach is all about next level weddings with every glamorous detail that you could possibly imagine. Trust us, your every want will be taken care of, right down to their amazing Whatever/Whenever® service, aka, the best concierge service on the planet. Need even more proof? Take it from beautiful bride, Samantha – The best part of working with the W was not having to worry about our day not being beautiful. The venue itself is so stunning without anything extra, it was comforting to know that, no matter what, it would be beautiful. Working with Marina made everything about the day less stressful. She really helped organize our dream wedding from start to finish!

See more of their beautiful day here, then contact Marina Serret at 305.938.3028 to get planning.

The Key to the Perfect Outer Banks Wedding

We don’t need to tell you that the Outer Banks in North Carolina is a gorgeous place to tie the knot – the beauty in this seaside paradise truly speaks for itself. But if you’re on the lookout for a resort that can host your Big Day sans any stress on your part, we can help. The Sanderling Resort sits right on the Atlantic and has some amazing venue + package options that will bring your entire vision full-circle. Check it out.

The key to any amazing wedding? Finding the right locale. And with Sanderling Resort, you can pretty much sit back and relax while their planners take care of it all for you, starting with helping you land on the right package option. Sanderling Resort offers five elopement packages for 15 – 60 guests that include everything from wedding cakes to s’mores around the fire pit. Their full-service package works for those larger celebrations for up to 180 guests and their winter package waives the facility fee and the food and beverage minimum, which is awesome. And if you want to talk venues – you can tie the knot seaside on their beautiful beach or Observation Deck, host a grander event at their House + Deck or Pavilion, or celebrate in an intimate soiree at their Kimball’s Kitchen or Keeper’s Loft.

From their fresh southern coastal cuisine to their team of pros that know everything there is to know about planning a seaside wedding, we love Sanderling Resort and their breathtaking Outer Banks locale. To find out more about planning your Big Day, call their fab team of wedding planners at 877.300.0624 or visit their website here.

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THIS Is How You Throw the Ultimate South Beach Wedding

Thinking of saying “I do” in South Beach? Then let this gorgeous wedding (and couple) be your guide. Literally everything about their day screams total glamour – from the decor to the dance ’til your drop reception to the luxurious W South Beach locale. Find out so much more about throwing your very own dream wedding below.

Miami is made for marrying. And the W South Beach? They know how to get it done. From your very first moments of planning to your last sip of champagne, their team of wedding professionals will help you create that wedding you’ve always wanted, just like this gorgeous couple’s Big Day. They definitely took advantage of the amazing views from the oceanfront locale, awesome venue choices (indoor AND outdoor) and customizable menus. We love the way they transformed the Great Room into an ultra-luxe Miami party, and are especially smitten with The Grove for an al fresco reception up to 150 and the Cabana at WET for an intimate celebration if you’re looking for something a bit different. And don’t even get us started on the gorgeous rooms, guest amenities and fun activities. We love the WOW factor.

Whether you plan on saying “I do” with just a few close friends and family or want to throw the celebration of the century like this stunning duo, the W South Beach can make it all happen… and beautifully. From their amazing staff to their Whatever/Whenever® service (they’ll truly bend over backwards) to their awesome wedding packages, you honestly can’t go wrong. For site tours and booking, contact Marina Serret at 305.938.3028 to get your Miami party started.

Contact the W South Beach to ask about SAYING “I DO” IN STYLE

Complimentary in-suite couples massage for bride and groom during the wedding weekend
1 -Year-Anniversary complimentary room night with breakfast in bed
Cabana for the day after the wedding with a bottle of Veuve Clicquot
Complimentary 1 Hour of Wonderful Bar
Special pricing for Rehearsal Dinner and Wedding Brunch available
Minimum revenue applies

An Insider’s Guide To Your Birmingham Wedding

When it comes to tying the knot, Birmingham is one of those hidden gems that makes your wedding weekend just as fun as it is stylish. Trust us, just one stop in “The Magic City” and you’ll be smitten. Which is why we’re teaming up The Westin Birmingham to bring you a little insider’s guide on how to make the most of your Birmingham celebration. From fun activities to amazing restaurants, we’ve got you covered.

BEST SPOT FOR PHOTO OPS

Our Pick: The Westin Birmingham.

Why we love it: We all know that choosing a venue with stellar photo ops is sooo important, and The Westin Birmingham will definitely not disappoint. We can’t get over the vertical wall and stairs combo that jumps out at you the second you walk into the lobby (hello, drama) AND the views of Uptown from the rooftop pool. Taking those newlywed images to an entirely new (breathtaking) level has never been easier.

Our Pick: Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Why we love it: Three words: sooo many flowers. Plus, gorgeous greenery and awe-inspiring structures, too. Which means that you can snap those moments with your love surrounded by everything from beautiful roses to tulips to camellias, the perfect backdrop for those fall wedding captures. Bonus? It’s just a 10 minute drive from The Westin Birmingham, so you don’t have to miss your entire cocktail hour.

FAVE RESTAURANTS

Our Pick: Todd English P.U.B.

Why we love it: No wedding is complete without a fabulous lineup of restaurants on the itinerary, and if one of those restaurants happens to be in the lobby of The Westin Birmingham? Even better. Todd English P.U.B. boasts a full Raw Bar, plus a lineup of traditional American “comfort foods” that will leave your tummies happy. And the Bloody Mary Cart? A must for your morning-after brunch AND a quick jaunt down from your luxe accommodations.

Our Pick: Perry’s Steakhouse

Why we love it: Just a short 20 minute Uber from The Westin Birmingham’s Uptown location, Perry’s Steakhouse is one of our fave spots in Birmingham. Why? It’s tasty award-winning menu will get you every. single. time. and the cocktails are super tasty. We suggest trying this locale out for a yummy rehearsal dinner or bachelor/bachelorette party.

Our Pick: Galley and Garden

Why we love it: And speaking of rehearsal dinners, the Galley and Garden is a beautiful spot for that night-before celebration with your nearest and dearest. We’re sort of obsessed with the historic Merritt House locale and the beautiful private dining options will really make your evening stand out. Oh, and the food? Spectacular.

FUN ACTIVITIES

Our Pick: Top Golf Birmingham

Why we love it: Guys, Top Golf is the best. Whether you’ve never picked up a club in your life, or happen to be the next Jordan Spieth, trust us on this one: you and your guests will love it. Plus, with good food, good drinks and fun to be had by all, it’s the perfect spot for any of those pre-wedding parties you have on the lineup… or a getaway with your love post-nuptials.

Our Pick: Sips n Strokes

Why we love it: If you’re looking for a more laid-back activity, Sips n Strokes is IT. Think wine, painting (your very own works of art) and tons of laughs with your besties. We’re loving this Birmingham hot spot as an amazing girls’ getaway with your bridal party – or a fun activity with all of your nearest and dearest who are in town to celebrate you and your love.

Our Pick: Locked in Birmingham

Why we love it: Having a list of activities for your guests is one of the most important parts of planning your Big Day and they’ll absolutely LOVE you when you add this brain charger to their itinerary. Because nothing says “bonding experience” quite like a game that requires you to use clues to escape from a room with your friends and family. So fun, you guys.

Ready to plan the week or weekend of a lifetime? Contact The Westin Birmingham as your starting point. They’ll take care of all of your wedding dreams (luxe accommodations, beautiful venues) and the city of Birmingham will handle the rest of the fun.

Photography: Sam Jasper Photography | Photography: NicTay Photography

9 Wedding Locations You Havent Heard About Yet

We know that finding the perfect wedding venue isn’t always easy, especially if you’re looking for something that totally speaks to you and yours. So today we’re running through a list of nine (yes, NINE) fab venues we absolutely love, so you can find that dream locale. Scroll for some hidden gems you haven’t even heard of.

THE ST. REGIS WASHINGTON, D.C.

Why we love it: Just steps from the White House, The St. Regis Washington, D.C. is the perfect mix of luxe accommodations and upscale wedding offerings – all with a dash of historical charm. You can opt for a cocktail hour in the Italianate revival lobby, or celebrate your “I do’s” in the Astor Ballroom with its hand-stenciled ceiling (an original 1926 decorative feature) and Palladian windows overlooking The Astor Terrace. This place is beautiful, you guys – and it’s no wonder it continues to be named the “Best Hotel for Small Weddings” by Washington Magazine. It’s just that good.

What you can’t miss: The Astor Terrace. Perfect for ceremonies OR receptions, this gem of an outdoor space features a dreamy fountain. Need we say more?

W SCOTTSDALE

Why we love it: Located smack-dab in the middle of Scottsdale’s Entertainment District, W Scottsdale is every modern lovin’ bride’s dream. Think totally chic contemporary spaces (both indoor and outdoor) perfect for celebrating your Big Day, plus amazing accommodations that will make your entire wedding weekend.

What you can’t miss: Their fab W Insider service. It’s concierge plus some with everything you’ll ever need just a push of a button away. Whatever you want, whenever you want it.

LE MÉRIDIEN DELFINA SANTA MONICA

Why we love it: Situated just three blocks from the ocean with great access and breathtaking views, plus offering up some awesome amenities for guests (hey there, Bicycle Programme), Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica seamlessly combines a glam spot to say “I do” with all of that laid-back Southern Cali charm we love so much. We’re obsessed with their Pool Terrace receptions, not to mention their chef-inspired catering menus and views of the Pacific Ocean.

What you can’t miss: Their venues. From the Delfina Ballroom to the Terrazza Garden, Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica has you covered when it comes to celebrating in style.

HOTEL COLONNADE CORAL GABLES, A TRIBUTE PORTFOLIO HOTEL

Why we love it: Ideal for those travel lovers who want to say “I do” in complete luxury, the Hotel Colonnade Coral Gables has elegant weddings (and accommodations) down to an absolute science. From their 23,000 square feet of event space to their gorgeous venue options (hello, marble-tiled rotunda) to their talented staff that knows everything there is to know about throwing the perfect wedding, you’ll most definitely be making a statement.

What you can’t miss: Their Make a Green Choice Program. Guests receive a $5 food credit or 500 SPG points just for making the choice to conserve natural resources in their room. We love that.

THE WESTIN CHICAGO NORTHWEST

Why we love it: It’s hard not to fall in love with a setting as pretty as Hamilton Lake and when you add in a climate-controlled tent and fully-renovated guest rooms, you have yourselves one of the prettiest wedding locales in all of Chicago. Plus, the Westin Chicago Northwest also offers up a plethora of indoor + outdoor venue options, customizable menus AND your very own wedding specialist.

What you can’t miss: Their 24-hour room service. (Enough said.)

SHERATON SAN DIEGO HOTEL & MARINA

Why we love it: You honestly can’t go wrong with a San Diego wedding, and the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina is the epitome of a perfect SoCal soiree with a gorgeous seaside location and deluxe amenities. Now add in a stunning garden ceremony spot (with marina views) and indoor venue options that are just as cool and you have the perfect place to say “I do.”

What you can’t miss: The Culinary team. They’ve been named “Best Caterer” by San Diego Magazine for 15 years running. Yum.

THE EQUINOX, A LUXURY COLLECTION GOLF RESORT & SPA, VERMONT

Why we love it: You know we can never get enough of Vermont weddings and if you’re looking for the perfect destination spot: this is it. From their three unique venues (Pond Pavilion, Colonnade Ballroom and Meadow House) to the amazing views of the Equinox Mountain and the Taconic Mountain Ridge, The Equinox Resort has everything you’ll ever need for that dream wedding… AND can accommodate anywhere from 80 to 250 guests.

What you can’t miss: The activities. This four-season resort offers up a world of fun-filled adventures, from golfing to skiing to fishing to snowshoeing – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

THE ST. ANTHONY, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, SAN ANTONIO

Why we love it: Four words: Open-air rooftop ballroom. Yep, you can literally dance the night away under the stars. Plus, the St. Anthony has been hosting weddings for over a century, so you know you’re in good hands with their talented staff of event professionals. From their gorgeous rooms to their convenient downtown locale, you won’t be missing a thing.

What you can’t miss: The details. From crystal chandeliers to a winding staircase to theatrical lighting and a 19th Century French tapestry, get ready for some non-stop oohing and ahhing.

THE WESTIN GALLERIA & OAKS HOUSTON

Why we love it: If you’re having a celebration with a lot of out-of-town guests, you can’t pick a locale better than the Westin Galleria & Oaks Houston. Its Uptown location paired with its amazing guest amenities and reception space for up to 1,000 makes it the ideal location for those looking to explore the Galleria neighborhood of Houston. Think shopping, dining and spa-ing the days away. It’s perfect.

What you can’t miss: The Monarch Ballroom. With floor-to-ceiling windows and views of the city, this 24th floor gem is a reception dreamland.

Visit SPG Weddings to find out even more about these hidden gems AND all of the amazing perks of having an SPG Wedding. You can thank us later, friends.

This Wedding Was Flawless – Even Though The Bands Went Missing

Not only is this Bride insanely gorgeous (hello, flawless hair by Meg Ann Workman and killer outfit change into an Adrianna Papell jumpsuit) on the outside, but she’s equally beautiful within. Despite the threat of thunderstorms and tornados as well as finding out the wedding bands went missing just moments before the outdoor ceremony, she stayed calm, cool, and collected. You’d never know anything went wrong when viewing this stunning gallery by Shining Light Photography. So Brides-to-be take note, when you keep focused on what is important – marrying the love of your life – the rest of your wedding day will be perfect, no matter what.

Colors

Seasons

Summer Weddings

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Outdoor Weddings

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Modern

From the Bride… We chose to have the long, family style tables for our dinner reception because we wanted everyone to feel together and not so spread out. The best conversations and times we’ve shared as a family were always at our dinner table. That’s what we wanted our friends and family to experience. As for the food choice, we love to eat, and who doesn’t like pizza and pasta? By making the dinner family style and having to share the dishes, it really made people interact and lean on each other. Everyone at the wedding helped each other get what they needed. It got people talking to those around them, whether they knew each other well or not! So, over time, everyone started to interact like true family and friends.

From Shining Light Photography… This couple, while clearly stunning on the outside, had even sweeter hearts on the inside. I so enjoyed working with them for many reasons that are blatant to the eye – their great style, intentional details sprinkled all throughout the day, the clean color palette, their fun friends and family, and the great signature cocktails. ;)

However, some of my favorite memories looking back on this day were from noting how calm and kind this couple were in the face of so many things “going wrong”. You may not realize it when glancing through the images, but this day started out super hot for a May, West Virginia wedding! Then it took a turn just before the ceremony – there were severe thunderstorms and threats of tornados taking place within a few miles of the outdoor ceremony site. Dark clouds were rolling in, but our Bride and Groom stayed so peaceful, not panicking at all, and just remained ready to go down the aisle and get married!

If that wasn’t enough, the wedding bands went missing just minutes before the ceremony was about to start. They had to tell the Bride that she wouldn’t have her rings to exchange during the actual ceremony, and as I expected to see her start getting frustrated or upset, she simply said, “It’s okay! Don’t worry about it. It’s not a big deal right now.” What!? I was so in awe of her grace and composure; not wanting anyone to feel bad about mistakes that just happen in the midst of wedding day craziness! After the ceremony was over, as we were rushing to snag some portraits of our bride and groom before the rain hit, the rings were found! We ran over to the altar and the couple exchanged the rings as if nothing had happened.

To the upcoming Brides out there: These are little things that will not go as planned on your wedding day. The key is if you’re going to CHOOSE to let it be a moment you just laugh through and know will be a funny story down the road, or if you’re going to choose to dwell on the negative and allow it to create a painful memory. You can choose to have joy in each moment and, if you do, I promise you’ll be much happier when looking back at your images and reliving your wedding memories!

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Three Tips For Looking Completely Natural In Your Wedding Photos

If you find yourself panicking over the mere thought of getting those engagement + wedding photos taken, know that you are not alone. Freeze face happens to the very best of us, and if you’re more than ready to conquer those awkward poses and staged kisses, the uber-talented Bethany Rees of DOLA Photography is here to tell us exactly how it can be done. Cozy on up for a lesson in oh-so-natural wedding photos below.

TRUST YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

When it comes to capturing natural images, I love to keep couples moving and doing things, so that they almost forget they are being photographed. Even small amounts of movement can make photos look less posed and stagnant. It’s great when couples are up for whatever I ask, like leading one another through a field or walking quickly together down a set of stairs, trusting that I will always make them look good. Even if they are just standing in one spot for me, I’ll ask them to sway, almost slow dance with each other, so there is always movement. A good photographer knows how to give direction to get natural looking photos out of anyone, no matter what their personality is like.

IGNORE THE CAMERA

My style is also very photojournalistic, so outside of the time we do portraits together, I am constantly scanning the room on a wedding day looking for small moments – glances, laughs, hugs… those are the best candids. Sometimes I even hold my camera up and wait. I can see the photo in my head and I just need something small to happen, or someone to move into the frame to get it perfect, and it happens so quickly that if I didn’t already have my camera ready at my eye, I would miss it! For those photos I need people to ignore me – a lot of times when people see a camera they want to pose or smile, which is great, but normally my favorite candid photos happen when people are just being present, enjoying themselves at the party and ignoring me.

ENJOY YOURSELF

Consider doing something that is just for the two of you. It doesn’t need to be something major, but a small moment or activity together gives an opportunity for me to just document what you’re doing together in an unscripted way. Get coffee, have a glass of champagne together, go off and eat your cake while watching the sunset. Give yourselves extra down time in your wedding day schedule to really allow yourself to relax and for spontaneous things to happen. Those in-between moments are always some of my favorite and the most natural looking photos! For engagement sessions, too, I recommend getting your hair and makeup done so you are feeling fabulous and confident… treat it like you’re going on a fun date!

You want your wedding day to rock, so finding a photog that can ease your mind and help you feel natural in front of the camera is key. Bethany Rees, studio owner of DOLA Photography, is one of those talented photographers, using her years of experience to snap images that are modern, timeless AND gorgeous… and all with an unobtrusive and laid-back style that will sooo put you at ease. We are all kinds of obsessed with her photojournalistic style, and her ability to snap those moments you didn’t even know were happening. Do yourself a favor and contact her today for a wedding album filled with heart-tugging images you’ll cherish for always.

Photography: DOLA Photography

5 Bridesmaid Dress Trends Your Besties Will Actually Love

When it comes to choosing the perfect bridesmaids dresses, keeping your besties happy is priority number one. Which means finding gowns that are chic, show off all of their best features AND bring the bride’s vision to life. That’s where Brideside and their lineup of designer dresses comes in to play. From romantic Jenny Yoo frocks to glam Sorella Vita numbers, they’ve got you sooo covered. Scroll for five trends we’re all about in 2017.

HUES OF BLUES

Remember when mixing and matching bridesmaid gowns meant your bridal party had to wear the exact same dress, but each chose a different neckline? Yep, those days are gone. Now you can mix it up with color to add dimension to your ladies, all while keeping the look completely cohesive. We love playing with the many blue options available from Brideside, from seaglass to sapphire to that gorgeous hue of navy that is everything you’ve ever wanted.

Photo Credit: (Top to Bottom): Joanna August + Wtoo

BOHEMIAN FLAIR

You and your love are definitely more Coachella than ballroom, so your wedding day look should totally reflect that. And that includes your bridal party. With Brideside, you can peruse their lineup of dreamy gowns that are so, so perfect for your one-of-a-kind besties, whether that’s an ulta-boho look with flowy chiffon overlays or an off-the-shoulder number that is the epitome of romance with a dash of bohemian flair.

Photo Credit: Joanna August

FLORAL TAKEOVER

Beautiful blooms aren’t just for those centerpieces and bouquets… they’re also an awesome way to make your besties stand out. Think drop-dead gorgeous floral prints in amazing textures like chiffon and embroidered tulle and you are sooo on the right track. Jump right in and have all of your besties rock stunning floral numbers from Brideside… or mix it up with a few florals and a few solid prints. It’s also a perfect way to have your Maid of Honor stand out. All in all, it’s beautiful, my friends.

Photo Credit: Jenny Yoo

ROSE GOLD ROMANCE

You know we never say “no” to a metallic anything. But rose gold? We love it a little extra special. This beautiful hue is the perfect way to add a little modern romance to your festivities and we’re totally on board with the glitzy and glamorous sequin options available at Brideside. Want to add just a touch of shine, but not go overboard with the bling? Mix and match the sparkle with solid blush hues for a subtler look that is just as special.

Photo Credit: Watters

SLEEK AND SEXY

Your ladies aren’t your average besties, so shouldn’t their dresses match their crazy cool personalities? With Brideside, you can dive head first into looks that are sleek, sexy AND sophisticated… just like your loves. Which means saying “goodbye” to full skirts and “hello” to slim silhouettes and flat-front shapes that are flattering and hip-hugging and so, so easy to re-wear. It’s ultra-modern and completely versatile and, well… we love.

Photo Credit: Watters

Ready to find those gowns of your besties’ dreams? Visit Brideside today and talk to a complimentary style consultant about their amazing designer assortment of gowns, new showrooms opening this spring and their Try at Home program, which makes your life beyond easy. Oh, and if you sign up with Brideside by May 25, 2017, you’ll receive 15% off your entire bridal party. Just another reason to love them, you guys. Happy shopping!

Bridesmaid Gowns: Wtoo | Bridesmaid Gowns: Jenny Yoo | Bridesmaid Gowns: Watters | Bridesmaid Gowns: Joanna August

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5 Bridesmaid Dress Trends Your Besties Will Actually Love

When it comes to choosing the perfect bridesmaids dresses, keeping your besties happy is priority number one. Which means finding gowns that are chic, show off all of their best features AND bring the bride’s vision to life. That’s where Brideside and their lineup of designer dresses comes in to play. From romantic Jenny Yoo frocks to glam Sorella Vita numbers, they’ve got you sooo covered. Scroll for five trends we’re all about in 2017.