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Stylish And Sophisticated Summer Wedding Inspiration At Allegretto Winery

Details shine like the sun in this endlessly romantic summer wedding inspiration shoot.  Always Yours Events planned and designed the dreamy Allegretto Winery wedding that was inspired by the countryside of Italy.  Free-flowing blooms designed by Bows & Arrows Flowers fill every inch of the day with romantic whimsy, and every magical moment was artfully captured in imagery by Lauren Fair Photography. You’ll fall wildly in love with each and every photo in the full gallery.




From Lauren Fair PhotographyAn elegant, floral-filled celebration channeling a destination celebration inspired by the countryside of Italy! The day was complete with fine stationery details, an olive grove ceremony, a courtyard intimate tablescape and plenty of hospitable fine details, including the most gorgeous wedding cake that sat atop green velvet and was covered in florals.



A custom, scalloped arch of florals stood as the ceremony backdrop within the olive grove as the beautiful couple said their vows. They were swept away after the ceremony through the olive grove, in a vintage green car, leading them to the lavender fields under the golden light.



Each guest was gifted a personal bottle of olive oil and the night was ended under the lights, by the glow of the personalized floral candles. It was a beautiful end to a magical evening.



Photography: Lauren Fair Photography | Videography: Peyton Anne Frank | Florals: Bows and Arrows | Jewelry: Verstolo | Hair & Makeup: The Face of Beauty | Venue: Allegretto Winery | Film Processing: PhotoVision Prints | Gowns: Madebride by Antonea | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Planning & Design: Always Yours Events | Styling Surfaces: Chasing Stone

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Colorful Backyard Wedding In Little Rock Brimming With Style

This charming backyard wedding is sure to put a smile on your face.  Audrey Hurst planned a day that’s classic with a whimsical twist, filling the day with sweet touches and jaw-dropping blooms by Luxe Floral and Event Styling.  Bright and happy colors add to the joy of this special day all beautifully photographed by Erin Wilson Photography and Films.  Enjoy every darling detail inside the full gallery.




From Erin Wilson Photography and FilmsI would describe Mary Claire and Mitchell as classic, and fun. They wanted a beautiful classic wedding with southern touches like monograms, southern food, a fun southern band from Memphis, colorful florals and to be married in their church.



I loved that Mitchell wore a white dinner jacket and Mary Claire wore a gorgeous classic gown with subtle detail (she even had a fun reception dress with a super cute bow too).  The two dazzled on their wedding day.



I loved that their wedding was at her family home with all their friends and family. All the best memories were happening right where the bride grew up. Very ‘Father of the Bride’ style!



Photography: Erin Wilson Photography | Event Planning: Audrey Hurst | Florals: Tanarah -Luxe Floral and Event Styling | Cake: Boulevard Bread Co | Stationary: By Invitation Only | Ceremony: Trinity Episcopal Cathedral | Bridesmaids' Dresses: SHow Me Your Mumu | Catering: Boulevard Bakery | Calligrapher: Kate Edwards | Band: Memphis Soul Revue | Tux: Sid Mashburn | Brides Makeup: Pout | Bridesmaid Earrings: Made by Maddie | Bridesmaid Hair: Shelby Day and Jourdan Stoddard of Salon Scarlet | Bridesmaid Makeup: Ella Rindahl and Vanessa Thomas | Dress Designer: Ines Di Santo | Dress Store: Carine's Bridal Atelier | Groomsmen Tux: The Black Tux | Linen Cocktail Napkins & Bridesmaid Ribbons: AP Monograms | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Mahaffey Tent and Party Rentals | Rentals and Decor: Confetti's Party Rental

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Lady Whistledown Invites You to Read All About This Romantic Affair at Montalvo Arts Center!

Dearest reader – Delna & Patrick’s affair at the Montalvo Arts Center is a diamond that shines bright. Natalie Choi Events designed the epitome of effortless elegance with undeniable romantic touches, inspired by Bridgerton, a series beloved by the bride (and the team here at SMP)! The palette blended autumnal golden hues with dusty pink and the iconic Bridgerton blue. Lush blooms by Bloomwell & Co. and intricate accents, such as blue hand-painted bread plates, were balanced with organic and minimalist elements. You’ll be delighted by the charm of these nuptials, beautifully displayed in the full gallery by Meiwen Wang

From Natalie Choi Events… When Delna & Patrick were first planning their wedding for spring of 2020, the world was in a different place and we had a different design planned for their wedding. A few design iterations later, Delna & Patrick were married in the fall of 2021, surrounded by their closest friends and family at the gorgeous estate of Villa Montalvo.

With the shift of season and the release of Bridgerton (which Delna loved), we landed on a palette that brought out the best of autumn in rich golds and dusty pinks, accented by a touch of blue a la Bridgerton. We wanted the overall design to feel romantic but effortless, blending seamlessly with the grand architecture of Villa Montalvo while maintaining a lighthearted atmosphere.

Delna & Patrick were married in the Italianate garden, entering through the cypress tree-lined aisle and married between vine-covered columns. Their cocktail hour was held in the Oval Garden and Spanish Courtyard, where guests were greeted with comfy lounge seating with velvet ottomans and cushions as well as lawn games. Dinner followed on the veranda, which was capped off with cake, gelato, and a champagne tower.

A floral palette of lush blooms in gold and mauve tones complemented by organic foliage was the central focus of our design, adding color to our neutral tablescape. Although we chose neutral tones for our tables, we created a palette rich in texture – whitewashed chairs, velvet tablecloths, gold-rimmed lacey glass chargers, sleek gold flatware, and the cutest hand-painted blue bread plates to complete our place settings. Our paper goods were also selected for organic texture: invitations on handmade paper, a hanging linen banner for our seating chart, and minimal menus with effortless calligraphy.

Photography: Meiwen Wang | Event Planning: Natalie Choi Events | Floral Design: Bloomwell & Co. | Invitations: Idyll Paper | Catering: la bocca fina | Makeup: Julie Dy | Hair: Shea Styles | DJ: DJ Beatific | Venue: Villa Montalvo | Wedding Venue: Villa Montalvo | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Paper goods: Ettie Kim Calligraphy + Design | Photobooth: Chroma Photobooth | Rentals: Theoni Collection | Rentals: Standard Event Rentals

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This French Countryside Wedding Pairs Provence’s Charm With Black And White Chic

What happens when you mix the French countryside with a chic black and white aesthetic? Wedding magic, of course! Elodie Villemus designed and planned a day in Provence that will take your breath away, and beautifully brought the couple’s love story to life with crisp white blooms.  From a classic American vintage getaway car to a checkered dance floor every detail is brimming with elegance artfully captured in the imagery by Mailys Fortune.  Visit the full gallery to get swept away in all the fun.




From Mailys FortuneA super-sweet and romantic couple, a classic American vintage ride, a 12th-century church, a perfect Provence countryside house, not to mention a modern black and white color palette that is equal parts classic and chic are reasons enough to have you fall head over heels with this stylish wedding planner’s I do’s! Every insider of the wedding industry worth their salt has already been exposed to all kinds of weddings and all sorts of concepts, as well as every top brand the world around; they know what has been, what will be, and what will always be, and our bride Julie, wedding planner at the Provence agency of Elodie Villemus is an absolute dynamo! So when it came to saying I do to the love of her life, she knew how to be intentional and absolutely… Designful! Now you know what they say about real deal love; it finds you when you least expect it at the most unlikely place. That’s how it happened with Julie and Florent. Both avid unbelievers in dating apps, both were wishing to prove how these things never work, and yet when Julie found herself in his city for work, the phones “matched,” and they gave it a go for fun’s sake. Checkmate! During their holiday in Corsica Florent proposed and the rest is well… history.



It was an easy choice for Julie and Florent, deciding to marry closer to home. Not that it’s difficult to resist a wedding in the Provence-Alps-French Riviera region. They sought a venue that would feel delightful and relaxing, nonchalant, and authentic, true to their character. Meeting them, we knew exactly why these two are as caring and as genuine as it gets, and Le Mas Desluca (a Provence house, very characteristic of the region) was a perfect fit. Soaking up the lyrical landscapes, among fields of lavender and ancient olive groves, the shrubland-cloaked hills revealed the dream before her. The owners won Julie over during a work-related site inspection, and the deal was sealed. Julie’s love for the understated chic meant going for the most time-tested color palette. White on white against black was her choice. As for the details? A decidedly sophisticated meld of modern and preppy set alfresco framing the couple’s reception checkerboard dance floor. The ceremony took place in Notre-Dame-du-Lac, a 12th-century church of rare beauty at Le Thor, Provence. When Julie was all prepped up, she and her bridesmaids had a first look moment we adored (check out the photos to see why you should definitely have one with your best friends) as well as the first look with her dad that gave us all the fuzzy feels. Soon, her cathedral veil was skirting the marble floors, and Florent was looking at his wife-to-be approaching with a huge smile.



Following the ceremony, an ivory MG 1500 Roadster, 1957, waited outside for our couple’s portraits and newlywed ride across the sunny plains of Le Thor. We took our time capturing their beautiful portraits and loved how calm and harmonious each moment between them felt. Julie and Florent were so into the moment! As Julie later confided about her fondest memory, “Hard to say which moment I adored the most – I loved every moment and every step… What comes to my mind is this clear sky with stars, seeing people having fun, jumping, dancing, singing, and the joy in their eyes (after these two years of covid). We wanted our guests to have a great time with great food, a cocktail, and a warm, cozy atmosphere. I only wish I could do this again to have more time with them.” Her thoughts on what makes a wedding day perfect? Vet out a planner! Every detail counts. Don’t leave anything to chance. As for us, we couldn’t be more thankful to be Julie and Florent’s memory keepers. As they are now en route to discovering French Polynesia and the U. S., we can only wish them to be always as happy as they were on that day.



Photography: Maïlys Fortune Photography | Cinematography: Pierre Sautel | Event Planning & Design: Elodie Villemus | Floral Design: Elodie Villemus | Cake: Made In Cake | Invitations: Crème De Papier | Reception Venue: Le Mas Desluca | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Catering: Helen Traiteur | Makeup artist: ZAAHN MAKE UP | DJ: MS Evenement | Groom's Attire: Espace Homme Cérémonie | Vintage car: Provence Classics | Bar: Bar Events | Bridal boutique: Sonia B | Ceiling lights: Lily’s prod | Chandeliers: Phôs | Dancefloor: Donna Design | Dress designer: Pronovias | Furniture & tableware: Options | Hairstylist: Fanny | Rentals: provence reception

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Modern Persian Wedding In Maui In Petal Pink And Peach Tones

Say “aloha” to island wedding bliss! White Orchid Weddings planned the picture-perfect petal pink and peach day, and Mandy Grace designed the most beautiful of blooms for the Big Day.  The modern Persian island wedding was a beautiful blending of the bride and groom’s cultures, all artfully captured in time in imagery by Dmitri and Sandra Photography. You can see the full day unfold in the full gallery



From Dmitri and Sandra PhotographyThis sun-drenched, floral-filled wedding at the Four Seasons Maui couldn’t have been more perfect. Our chic bride chose a warm and vibrant color palette with hues of petal pink, blush, muted apricot, and creamy ivory. The modern, romantic wedding design with organic arrangements was put together beautifully by Kendall of White Orchid Weddings and florist Mandy Grace.  Their ceremony contained a traditional Persian Sofreh Aghd where Julianne and Jonathan exchanged vows. Guests moved to the reception, greeted with a bright floral escort card wall. Above the dance floor hung a stunning floral installation with dried palms, orchids, and rattan lanterns, bringing the whole design together.



From Kendall Oreta of White Orchid WeddingsJulianne and Jonathan were a dream couple to work with. They trusted me with every recommendation, with every conversation, and with every suggestion offered. While creating their wedding day, we really worked to tie in elements that were a representation of “them” and a joining of their families. Originally from Maui, our island bride Julianne wanted to share her beautiful island home with their guests, her husband, and her new family. For Jonathan, it was important to introduce his Persian Heritage into the ceremony for all their family and friends to witness, which included the traditional Persian Aghd Ceremony. Julianne and Jonathan wanted to create a memorable event that showcased their love as a couple and all their desires together in creating a guest experience that was full of luxury, romance, and of course a tropical-modern twist. With full trust from Julianne and Jonathan, we were able to procure an event with the finest event vendors on Maui to bring their vision to life. Every detail was perfectly managed with the only missing piece of the puzzle being Roger their pet cat. See pictured on their wedding cake. 



From the bride… We were so incredibly lucky to have so many of our loved ones with us to celebrate with us in a place that means so much to us. Given everything that has happened in the world before and since the wedding, we cannot overstate how grateful we are that we were able to safely gather and celebrate together. The sofreh aghd was really important to us as a way to honor and celebrate Jon’s Persian heritage. Jon’s mom spent months planning and collecting the items in the tablescape. Each item represented a hope for the marriage, like honey for a sweet life together, and the termeh (handwoven silk) for patience and sensitivity. Many of the items came from friends and family members, making the whole table a beautiful representation of our community and a reminder of all of the support that we have, something we deeply cherish. Having the wedding on Maui was also very important to us. I grew up in  Upcounty and miss the island every day. Jon has also come to love Hawai’i and understands how much it has shaped who I am. It meant so much to finally share it with all of the people we love.

Our cat, Roger, is a very special member of our family, but he was unfortunately not going to make the trip out to Maui. I carried a small figurine of him in my pocket during the ceremony as a way of having him with us. I passed him off to my dear friend, Cindy, who nestled him in the flowers on the cake afterward. We loved all of the florals, but Mandy’s installation above the dance floor was particularly outstanding. Our wedding party was full of major dancers, so we were on board the second she proposed it. My dress was a custom combination of two different Amsale designs. I wanted something simple and modern, but also still in scale with the venue. It almost didn’t make it to Maui in time! Two of our heroic friends, Colin and Trevor drove out to FedEx the moment it arrived (the day before the wedding!) to pick up and hand-deliver.

Overall, Jon is a much better wedding planner than I am; the topiary walls were his idea, as were the fans and parasols that were made available during the ceremony. He’s very good with the little details! And we couldn’t have done any of it without the truly incredible, Kendall Oreta of White Orchid Weddings and the amazing, talented, creative team she assembled for us–Mandy Grace and Dmitri and Sandra Photography in particular were incredible to work with.



Photography: Dmitri and Sandra Photography | Event Planning: A White Orchid Wedding Inc. | Floral Design: Mandy Grace | Gown: Amsale | Ceremony Venue: Four Seasons Maui | Hair and Makeup: Meili Autumn Beauty | Calligraphy: Miss B Calligraphy | Entertainment: Manutea Nui E | DJ: Maui DJ Services | Officiant: Chrissy Kapoor | Musician: Marvin Tevaga | Rentals: Inspiration Events Hawaii

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Why You Should Invest In Heirloom Pieces For Your Bridal Jewelry

When you’re planning your wedding look, a lot of thought goes into finding the gown, but what about your wedding jewelry? Your wedding gown you will likely only wear once, and let’s be real, your kids won’t want to wear it. But your jewelry, that you can pass down from generation to generation–no one says no to diamonds. So, before you pick up a pair of chandelier earrings from your local department store, consider investing in some heirloom pieces that will last you a lifetime and more. We know, planning a wedding costs a pretty penny and you probably don’t have a huge budget left for your wedding jewels, but quality doesn’t have to break the bank. Grown Brilliance has an incredible selection of fine jewelry in all of your favorite settings from yellow gold to platinum, all decked out in real diamonds for a fraction of the cost of what you would pay at some of the other leading fine jewelers. And just wait till you see these babies sparkle, you won’t want to take them off! 

 

What Type Of Jewelry Do You Need For Your Big Day?

You definitely want to have your gown picked out before you start shopping for bridal jewelry. The style and neckline will dictate the rest of your wedding ensemble. For instance, if your gown has a high neck, go for a larger statement earring and skip the necklace. Or, if you’re going to rock a plunging neckline, layer a few longer necklaces to draw the eye to your stunning décolletage. In essence, figure out what parts of your body and your gown you would like to draw attention to and highlight those with a little bling.

 

Invest In Timeless Pieces

While trends can be fun to play with, the key to making sure your jewelry stands the test of time is to invest in timeless pieces. In addition to their fun fashion-forward options, Grown Brilliance has collections of earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and rings that will never go out of style. Here are a few of our fave classics that will remind you exactly why diamonds are a girl’s best friend.  

 

Stately Studs

No matter what your gown looks like, you can’t go wrong with a classic pair of studs. Grown Brilliance has a bunch of solitaire options in a variety of shapes…plus, you get to choose the carat size! When it comes to diamonds, we always say, the bigger, the better. They also have halo options and multi-stone clusters that would add a wow factor to any look.  

 

Drop and Dangle Earrings

Ranging from delicate dangles to straight-up stunners, Grown Brilliance has page after page of insanely beautiful earring options. If you’re going for that modern minimalist look, try a simple dangle. Or, if your gown is strapless and you want your jewelry to really make a statement, go for a drop earring with a big teardrop diamond finalé

 

Tennis Bracelets and Necklaces

Simple and stunning, it’s no wonder that these babies never go out of style. You may think, if you’ve seen one tennis necklace, you’ve seen them all, but think again! Grown Brilliance offers tennis bracelets and necklaces in a variety of cuts and carats so you can find the set that complements your ring perfectly. If your gown is heavily beaded or you’re just not into super ornate jewelry but still want to sparkle, then the tennis collection is for you! 

 

Pendant Necklaces

If you’re looking for something simple to add a little bit of bling to your look without stealing the show, then a pendant necklace is the way to go. Whether you’re drawn to a solitaire or a cluster pendant, go with the same cut and shape as your engagement ring to keep the look cohesive. 

 

Well, there you have it, your grandkids can thank us later. Now all that’s left is to invest in that closet remodel you’ve been dreaming of and get a custom fit velvet-lined drawer for your heirloom pieces. For even more blindingly beautiful wedding jewelry inspo, be sure to give @grownbrilliance a follow on Instagram. 

Jewelry: Grown Brilliance

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This Fashion-Forward French Chateau Wedding Will Have You Tickled Pink!

The beauty of this Trisha & Jack’s Provençal wedding at Château de Tourreau will have you blushing! White Eden Weddings planned a haute-couture affair that seamlessly matched the splendor of the venue, where everything was ‘coming up roses’ with the stunning floral designs of Miss Rose by Perrine in a palette of pink shades. Yet, the showstopper of this magical day was the bride’s statement Rita Vinieris gown that turned heads with its plunging V-neckline and full skirt adorned with ruffled layers. The full gallery of this fairytale day, captured by Oliver Fly Photography, will leave you tickled pink!

From White Eden Weddings… Trisha & Jack and their guests flew from Chicago and spent a week at one of the most exclusive venues in Provence, the gorgeous Château de Tourreau. The ceremony took place in front of the main facade of the Château, highlighted by majestic drapes and local roses & florals which echoed the incredible venue’s rose gardens.

The ceremony design was a central focus of their wedding celebration, and this one of a kind design was the most beautiful backdrop for their meaningful religious ceremony.

Trisha’s statement dress was a great match to the grandiosity of the Château and the first look with her dad was a memorable and moving moment.

The dinner reception was held in the Chateau’s park. Textured linens with cream roses were displayed on tables under two bespoke pergolas and a fairy lights ceiling to frame this intimate dinner. Guests enjoyed a wonderful provençal gastronomic dinner before dancing under the stars until 4am!

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Photography: Oliver Fly Photography | Cinematography: mg-image | Event Planning: White Eden Weddings | Floral Design: Miss Rose By Perrine | dress: Rita Vinieris | Cake: Made In Cake | Invitations: Silent Word Studio | Catering: Pavillon Traiteur | Beauty: Trine Juel | Live band: Four Kicks | Rentals: Maison options | Rentals: Nuage Designs | Rentals: Be Lounge | Rentals: Joli Bazaar

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A Romantic Renault Winery Vineyard Wedding In Shades Of Blush

This Renault Winery wedding is overflowing with romance.  AMV Weddings planned the day in a palette of pink and blush, and Pocket Full Of Posies filled it with swoon-worthy blooms.  Every dreamlike moment was perfectly captured in time in the imagery by KSS Photography & Films.  Visit the full gallery to watch the full day unfold.




From KSS Photography & FilmsRyan was a chef and Kate was looking for summer work as she was planning to eventually head to graduate school for occupational therapy. When you are in your late 20s staying for a shift drink after work definitely is doable. They would constantly conversate and enjoy each other’s company but nothing happened until a few months later when a fiesty Kate stole his Pilsner Urquell beer in hopes to get his attention a little more and she surely did and the rest was history!



They got engaged while vacationing in St. Lucia about three years later and made sure their ceremony vows reflected not only this sweet beginning to their love story but all that they have been through as a couple over the years. Fast forward to their big day and the weather was amazing! More sun than you could ask for, lush greenery vines in the fields, tons of laughter from friends and family, and an enormous amount of love and affection from the bride and groom. It’s been said that Renault is the number one destination in all of New Jersey to get married at and once you get to experience the charm of their staff, their tasty culinary skills, and impeccably manicured grounds; you can definitely agree with this notion too!



Photography: Kait Lambert Photography | Cinematography: Color Room Films | Coordination: For This Joyous Occasion | Event Design: Valory Portraits | Event Planning: AMV Weddings | Floral Design: Pocket Full Of Posies | Wedding Dress: Bride's By Young | Cake: The Bake Works | Invitations: Mulberry Market Designs | Reception Venue: Renault Winery | DJ: SCE Event Group | Groom's Attire: Chazmatazz Formal Wear | Beauty: Make Me Up Eva | Beauty: Unveiled By Anna | Beauty: Bella Bridesmaid | Beauty: Bella Belle Shoes | Rentals: Cedar & Sage | Weddings Rings: The Mrs. Box | Weddings Rings: Earth Treasures

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This Couple Got The Chance to Celebrate Their Love Twice

After the pandemic forced Amy and Pete to have an intimate family-only wedding, they got to celebrate their love a second time around in the wedding of their dreams at Valley Rock Inn and Mountain Club.  Rebecca Rose Events brought the couple’s love story to life in the perfect setting for the two outdoor adventurers.  The day was filled with lush blooms from a floral lined ceremony aisle to grounded flowers surrounding reception tables.  Lance Nicoll Wedding Photography beautifully captured all of the magical moments in artful imagery, you can see it all in the full gallery.




From Rebecca Rose EventsWhen we started working with Amy and Pete, we set out to plan and design a large destination wedding somewhere in New York, preferably in the mountains. For these two outdoor adventurers, Valley Rock Inn and Mountain Club was the perfect choice! Once the venue selection was finalized we began crafting a beautiful design plan for a September 2020 wedding. Of course, the pandemic had other plans for all of us. With tremendous grace and patience, Amy and Pete determined they would have an intimate family-only wedding at her family’s home in Philadelphia and postpone the larger celebration to September 2021 in hopes that it would once again be safe to gather with all of their loved ones. It was worth the wait. This time around, they were able to have their full wedding party with all of the bridesmaids and groomsmen present. All guests were required to be vaccinated, which created an atmosphere of trust and safety so that everyone could truly savor the weekend in the fresh mountain air.



Though they were already wed, the couple chose to still have a formal ceremony and share commitment vows in honor of their first anniversary. It was such a special way to involve everyone in their lives as witnesses to their marriage, even though they weren’t able to be present at the start of it in 2020. The unity candle they lit was the same candle in 2020, now a precious family heirloom. The ceremony took place on one of the beautifully manicured lawns, surrounded by blooming hydrangea bushes. After the ceremony, guests were ushered into the “Shade Garden” for tray-passed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a full open bar. Here we first introduced a table linen that Amy fell head over heels in love with back in 2019 when we first began the design process: the “Navy Shelby” pattern from Nuage Designs’ Ceci New York collection.



That same pattern was then used for table runners on long dinner tables under a Sperry sailcloth tent for the reception. The fresh hydrangeas at Valley Rock are one of the features that sealed the deal when Amy and Pete laid eyes on the venue. The same hydrangeas grow in the garden beds at her family home, and they became an integral and intentional part of the overall wedding design. We included watercolor hydrangea artwork on the invitation suite and other paper details, in addition to acrylic cocktail stirrers. During the weekend of events, guests were delighted at every turn including personalized gift boxes set at their dinner place setting that contained Sugarfina champagne bubbles candies. We asked Amy and Pete what they would most want to remember about their grand celebration in 20 years. Their answer? “The people who were there, the smiles on their faces, and their ridiculous dance moves!” Judging by the ear-to-ear grins and packed dance floor, we’re confident they’ll have the memories they hoped for and then some, lasting well beyond 20 years.



Photography: Lance Nicoll Wedding Photography | Videography: Muddy Trails Videography | Floral Design: Rebecca Rose Events | Cake: Polkadot Cake Shop | Stationery: Rebecca Rose Events | Bride's Shoes: Alexandre Birman | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Catering: valley rock inn | Makeup: Be Pretty Charlotte | Hair Stylist: La'lli Hair Salon | Band: Modern Luxe | Tuxes: The Black Tux | Wedding Venue: valley rock inn | Tent: Sperry Tents NJ | Bride's Dress: Jenny Yoo | Ceremony Musicians: Elegant Music Group | Cigar Roller: The Mobile Cigar Lounge | Linen Rentals: Nuage Designs | Planning: Rebecca Rose Events | Tabletop Rentals: Party Rental LTD

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Bridgerton Meets Grandmillennial In This Inspire Editorial

This Bridgerton meets grandmillennial-inspired wedding is beautiful enough for the Duke and Dutchess themselves.  SRS Events planned and designed the pastel-filled day with carefully curated details like a chic Aperol Spritz Bar adorned with fresh oranges.  Endlessly romantic florals designed by Love Bloom make every vignette magical, and every moment was artfully captured in the elegant imagery by Ashley Boyan Photography.  You can take a closer look at all the lovely in the full gallery.




From SRS EventsThis styled shoot marries Bridgerton-inspiration with Grand Millennial vibes! From the stately neo-classical architecture of the manor, to the pale blue chinoiserie wall paper in the sitting parlors, it is a beautiful locale inside and out. The invitation suite incorporated the pastel florals into the couple’s crest, and a hand-drawn illustration of the venue. The wallpaper was subtly infused into the envelope liner, as well as the petal toss cones. Hand calligraphy and a blue ribbon were the finishing touches on the invitation suite.



The couple selected a multi-tier wedding cake, along with individual cakelets at each guest’s place setting. A dawn blue linen with a floral design allowed the gold leaf charger plates and gorgeous floral runner to be the table showstoppers. The couple also added fun touches by welcoming guests with a champagne bubbles cart, Aperol spritz signature drinks, and a champagne tower. Their sweetheart table sat in front of the lush floral blooms on the fireplace mantle, and a sheer sequin overlay on their table glistened in the candlelight.



As a memento of their wedding day, they commissioned a live painter to draw them having their first kiss under the stunning arch. Colorful pastel spring blooms encompassed the floral design, including garden roses, ranunculus, sweet pea, spray roses, and lisianthus. A stunning floral arch served as the ceremony’s focal point, and then lush florals adorning the fireplace mantle, sweetheart table, and long guest table filled the room with lovely scents. Guests were welcomed to Annapolis, Maryland with a tote bag with the couple’s crest on it, lush hydrangeas, a mini bottle of Moet, rose’, lemon macarons, and a lavender candle, and chinoiserie designed cookies.



Photography: Ashley Boyan Photography | Cinematography: Kirsten Beatley Films | Event Design: SRS Events | Event Planning: SRS Events | Floral Design: Love Blooms | Wedding Dress: Stesha Ho | Cake: Cake Doctor Aimee | Invitations: Sara Lane Design | Reception Venue: Whitehall Estate | Reception Venue: IMPACT Collective | Shoes: Bella Belle Shoes | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Revelry | Tux: The Black Tux | Accessories: The Loved One | Banner Sign: Coffee & Calligraphy | Bar Cart: Tiny Bubbles Bar Cart | Beauty: Kristen C. Artistry | Live Painter: Elena Fay | Model: Sarah | Models: Rachel & Chris | Rentals: The Collection By Courtney Inghram | Rentals: Nuage Designs | Rentals: Pretty Little Wedding Co


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It’s LWD Season And Rent The Runway’s Got You Covered

Can you even believe it? You’re officially engaged, it’s really happening! You’ve probably already started dreaming about what you’re going to wear for your wedding. Okay, you’ve had a secret Pinterest board for months now (no judgment). But what about all of the events leading up to the big day? You’ve got your engagement party, the bridal shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner…the list goes on and on. And each event comes with a whole stream of photo ops, so you can’t really wear the same thing twice. It may sound like we’re enabling some dangerous spending habits, but what if you could have a fresh little white dress for EVERY event and actually save money? Well, babe, you can! Rent The Runway has an endless selection of picture-perfect fashions and all of the latest trends that you can play and experiment with without a permanent commitment…and, one-time rentals start at just $30! 

 

How It Works

Rent The Runway has thousands of styles from over 700 designers in a wide range of sizes. Once you find the perfect look(s), you can either opt for a one-time rental or if you’ll be needing more than one look per month, we recommend going with one of their membership options. For one-time rentals, you can reserve an item up to four months in advance, so you’ll have plenty of time to plan the rest of your ensemble. One-time rentals can be made for either 4 or 8 days which is perfect if you’ll be traveling for any of your wedding-related soirées. Each rental also includes a free backup size to get you the perfect fit without any costly alterations!

If you know you’re going to need more than one ensemble for your busy social calendar, then a membership is definitely worth the investment! They have different plan options that range from 4, 8, or 16 items per month and they’ve got so much more to offer than just cocktail attire. You can rent anything from casual looks for weekend getaways and work attire to handbags and jewelry. The best thing about a membership (in our opinion) is that you can say goodbye to laundry day! Who has time for that when you’re planning a wedding? Every membership includes free dry cleaning and returns and plans range from $49-$149/month–that’s less than what you would spend on one look, let alone your entire wardrobe for a month! So, what are you waiting for? Save yourself some money and precious time and sign up for a Rent The Runway membership…your wallet and your insta feed will thank you later! 

 

 

Everything You Need To Know About The Little White Dress

First of all, LWDs are not a one style fits all situation. You wouldn’t wear the same sexy little white mini dress that you rocked at your bachelorette party with your besties to your bridal shower with your great aunt. This is why it’s so important to curate your look for each event separately. Things to consider before making your selection: the venue, the crowd, the vibe. Once you get a feel for those things, all that’s left to do is click and ship–let Rent The Runway take care of the rest. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite LWDs for every fête leading up to the big day and a few for after, but sometimes half the fun is looking for yourself, so feel free to browse on your own too. Rent The Runway has an entire section devoted to weddings where you can actually sort their inventory based on which wedding-related event you’re shopping for…happy hunting!

 

Engagement Party

You obviously want to look smokin’ at your engagement party, but let’s face it, it’s all about the ring. Go with something asymmetrical like this dress where that strategically placed slit will draw the eye right up to your hand and BOOM, you’ll hit ‘em with the bling.  

 

Bridal Shower

The key to a great bridal shower look is to keep it classy. Whether it’s being held at a nice brunch spot or a country club, you can’t go wrong with a high neck and lace.

 

Bachelorette Party

When it comes to short and tight, we usually recommend choosing one, but for your bachelorette party, go wild! We love this hot little number because as sexy as it is, it’s still super wearable and can easily go from day to night when you switch up the accessories. 

 

Rehearsal Dinner

Right before your rehearsal dinner, you’ve got the actual rehearsal, so you’ll want something bridal but not something too close to your actual dress. Go with a midi cut and a little bit of structure and you’re golden.

 

Exit Look

A lot of brides like to freshen up and slip into something a little more comfortable before they get whisked away to their wedding night. Go for something sweet and sexy like this backless lace cocktail dress.

 

Post-Wedding Brunch

The wedding is over, but the party’s still going. Keep the morning after super simple by slipping out of bed and into a little lace romper. You’ll look put together without having to try too hard. 

 

Honeymoon Plane Outfit

Yes, so this is technically not a LWD, but you get the idea. You’ll want to look cute for all of those plane selfies with your new hubby or wife, but you want to be comfortable too, especially if you’ve got a long flight ahead of you. Wear something flowy like these wide-leg pants and a breezy top

 

For more wedding wardrobe inspo, be sure to give Rent The Runway a follow on Instagram. 

Dresses: Rent The Runway

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Multi-Cultural Greystone Mansion California Wedding

We can’t help but swoon over this California love story.  The couple met at work and bonded over a shared love of humor.  Their love then blossomed into a picture-perfect wedding day at Greystone Mansion.  Blooms by Azalea at Wild and Behold have us feeling like we’ve stumbled into the prettiest of fairytales, and Ether & Smith artfully captured every beautiful detail in artful imagery that is sure to stand the test of time.  You can see every breathtaking moment in the full gallery.



From the bride… In between Excel spreadsheets while working at the same accounting firm our eyes met. It was an unlikely match because Stephen mistook Rebecca as another intern who was shy and quiet while Rebecca thought Stephen had too much facial hair (it was no-shave November). Their first conversation was during a work lunch at a ramen noodle restaurant where Rebecca kindly asked if Stephen knew how to used the chopsticks, and he replied with “Do you know how to use the fork?” In that moment, she knew he was special. Jokes aside, that really was Rebecca and Stephen’s first conversation when working at the same accounting firm. I (Rebecca) was shocked at his reply but it was also so well-played and funny that I felt an instant attraction towards Stephen. But the attraction for him was disrupted when we are matched as Ping Pong partners for a work social event and he rolled his eyes at me when I missed the game point. To this day Stephen still denied this happened. Falling for each other was surprising since we are very different at first glance. He is a big meat eater and hates seafood and I turned Pescatarian 6 years ago for animal welfare. Our biggest wedding disagreement came when selecting the dinner menu, thankfully our caterer was able to customize the dishes to our specific taste – minimal mushrooms on the meat and dirty rice with the seafood. Despite our differences, our biggest similarity tied us together – our love for humor and each other’s silliness. Neither of us cried during our vows because we were both trying to out-funny the other person. But thinking back this just demonstrated us so much more – competitive in a light-hearted way, making questionable jokes at very important events with very important people watching.



Our proposal story was not as glamorous as our wedding. It was 2 months into COVID shutdown and Stephen proposed at home after I came home from walking our dog, Albert. I am still a bit upset that Stephen chose a time when I was in sweatpants and headband. But it was nonetheless very sweet and funny because Stephen asked “would you accept this rose from me?” as he holds out a rose(we watched a lot of Bachlor/Bachlorette during the stay at home mandate) What was your inspiration and vision for the wedding? The style of the wedding I wanted was that of French Chateau Garden – romantic, classy, timeless with a hint of vintage. I wanted our guests to enjoy the surrounding as much as the wedding itself. I thought Greystone was the perfect venue for this because it has such a beautiful garden for the ceremony, relaxing space for the cocktail, and romantic setting for the reception. The rentals that I picked for each segment was to help bring out the atmosphere at each interval and expand the overall experience for the guests. For the ceremony, I chose clear chivari chairs so to not clash with the beauty of the garden. And we hired a harpist for the ceremony music because it just fit the vibe so well.



For the Reception, I chose blue table linens and gold Napolean chairs to give the castle a vintage fairytale look. I didn’t want too much decoration, so I thought the blue linen and the Napolean chairs were both functional and beautiful for the courtyard. Last but not least, I chose a variety of large roses to go with everything. Greystone allowed us to decorate the reception fountain with our floral arrangement, and I thought that softened the reception area and was also a perfect contrast to the blue table linens. We did two dances for the wedding – our first dance and a traditional dance. When we chose our first dance, we wanted something different. I picked the song “I Put a Spell On You” for its fun and slightly mysterious vibe. Our dance instructor even put a slight storyline in our dance! I was like a puppet being woken up by a magician/prince and he put a spell on me. But eventually, we fell in love. We had twirls and dips and pick-ups all in one minute. Stephen and I practiced every night for 2 months to lock down the dance moves and I was so proud and happy we pulled it off, together. For our “traditional dance” – we did the Scottish highland dance to a modern bagpipe remix. This was so much fun because he was wearing his Scottish kilt and I was wearing my traditional Chinese wedding dress. We were looking at each other for the next dance move since we were both kinda drunk by this point. Definitely, something special to remember it by. My advice for planning couples is to be yourself!! I do think that there is a certain formula to weddings – walking down the aisle, exchanging of rings, hosting the cocktail hour, doing the first dance, etc. While most couples would opt into these traditions, I find it very important to include the couple’s authenticity in these elements. Such as adding personal stories to the vows, maybe even singing your vows, having your dog/cat walk down the aisle, have your grandma as a bridesmaid. Not feeling the traditional first dances? Do something else. Love to dance? Do multiple dances! I think when planning weddings we often get absorbed by the “musts” and forget that the most important moments are the ones that reflect us the best. We see something similar at every wedding, but it’s always the authenticity that both couple and guests remember.



[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/683558971 600 338]

Photography: Ether & Smith | Videographer: Herman Au Photography | Florist: Wild and Behold Florals | Cake: Peggy Liao | Ceremony Venue: Greystone Mansion | Catering: LA Roots Catering | DJ: AVL Production - Ray Liu | Harpist: Hee Jin Yoon | Bridal & Traditional Gown: Custom | Dance Instructor: Trung Thanh | Make and Hair: Chiali Meng | Partial Planning: Amanda Chao | Reception Gown: 3T Fabulous & Co. | Rentals: MTB Event Rentals

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This Sonoma Micro-Wedding Has Us Craving All Things Autumn

Wine country and vibrant autumnal foliage always make the perfect pairing! With the creative direction of Lovely Time Wedding & Events and the artisanal-quality of Mandy’s Garden Floral Design, this micro-wedding at Viansa Sonoma is understated elegance – bottled up. The couple’s color palette emulated the falling leaves that surrounded the winery with an emphasis on red hues, paying homage to the bride’s Chinese heritage. Vintage décor elements and the venue’s Tuscan feel created a unique air of intimate sophistication. Sip on the perfect blend of style and love in the full gallery by Studio Opia!

From the Bride… We almost gave up on having a wedding at one point because none of our parents would be able to make it due to the Covid situation. Now we think about it, having our own wedding is one of the best decisions my husband and I have ever made together.

We are so grateful that we had the opportunity to celebrate our marriage with the closest friends. I was instantly sold by the wine cellar the first time we visited the venue. The size is perfect for our small wedding with a guest count of 30. The vaulted ceiling with the beautiful gate of the cellar provides an open-air feel and is also with elegance, and just the right amount of extra.

From the florist… Fall in Sonoma is a magic time when gorgeous fall colors spread across the wine county. When I discussed the color palette with the bride, she definitely wanted to features the fall color story in the wedding. From there, we came up 2 main colors, red, which is the traditional/official Chinese wedding color, and toffee, which has some vintage character to match the Tuscany styled property. Red flowers are the stars at the reception, contrasted with whites. And toffee is largely used at the ceremony and on the bride’s bouquet.

From the bride… Anthurium and moth orchards are my two favorite flowers. I love how they are featured and being paired so well. Our florist recommended an open arch for the ceremony. It’s such a smart idea. Our guest got a better view at the ceremony and the arch is also very flexible for repurposing.

Photography: Studio Opia | Cinematography: Haos Filming | Event Planning: Lovely Time | Floral Design: Mandy's Garden Floral Design | Cake: WhaT's More Cake | Catering: Carrie Dove Catering | Wedding Venue: Beaulieu Garden | Beauty: Yi Bridal | Linens: BBJ La Tavola

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Romantic Masculine Elopement On The Beaches Of California

This California elopement combines romantic design with masculine details for must-see wedding inspiration.  Kelley Williams designed and brought the love story to life, and Brooke Edelman Floral Design brightened the sand dunes with beautiful blooms.  Loveridge Photography artfully captured every incredible detail in elegant imagery that is sure to stand the test of time.  Visit the full gallery for a closer look at all the fun.




From Loveridge PhotographyOn the central coast of California nestled between high cliffs and sand dunes lies the perfect location for our couple to elope. Inspired by the incredible landscape the ceremony arch is low to take advantage of the beautiful sprawling ocean views. Our real-life couple, Damion and Blake are so in love and they were the perfect models for this shoot. Our couple’s suits from ASOS and H&M, perfectly replicated the ocean and sky just as they perfectly complement each other. Creative Director and stylist Kelley Williams created an intimate and romantic affair with a masculine color palette with beautiful modern touches.



A palette of dusty ocean blue and dark teal contrasted with soft yellows and tans. This shoot was full of inspiration for a masculine wedding while still soft, romantic, and luxurious. Floral designer Brooke Edelman Floral Design created the perfect florals to match with our theme. Looking Good On Paper Co designed custom stationery that is reminiscent of the flowing ocean crashing on the shore. After an intimate ceremony on the sand dunes, our couple ventured down to the ocean for a sweet stroll before heading off to the reception. When it came to the reception we wanted a masculine al-fresco atmosphere where once again water was our main focus.



The pond at Greengate Ranch and Vineyard provided the perfect space to entertain guests. For the lounge from Avenue Twelve Rentals, we went with a dark navy velvet couch with a lot of wooden and gold accents. When it came to the reception table, we opted for one long table with a light blue velvet tablecloth, mauve table runner, and napkins to soften the darker elements of our design. The modern plates and silverware were a design favorite that truly sparkled in the golden sunset light. For dessert, Bri’s Sweet Retreat created an incredible square cake with soft blue brush strokes and texture to incorporate the element of water that is throughout our design.



Photography: Loveridge Photography | Event Design: Kelley Williams | Floral Design: Brooke Edelman Floral Design | Cake: Bris Sweet Retreat | Invitations: Look Good on Paper Co. | Reception Venue: Greengate Ranch & Vineyard | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Avenue Twelve | Tabletop Rentals: borrowed BLU

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A Stylish Summer Wedding At The Ivy Rose Barn

Rachel and Sam knew they wanted to host their wedding at The Ivy Rose Barn before it was even built! Seeing the soft and inviting, yet sophisticated, spaces it’s easy to see why! Nicole Colwell Design & Co brought the couple’s Big Day vision to life in the most beautiful of ways, and floral installations from staircases to the greenhouse doors by Selahray Florals turned everything into a fairytale.  You can feel the love shining through the artful imagery by Nicole Colwell Photography, visit the full gallery for a closer look at all the lovely.




From Nicole Colwell PhotographyRachel and Sam booked their dream wedding venue even before it was constructed and were planning to get married in May of 21 but with the Covid restrictions still limiting guest attendance they decided to postpone to September 2021 and their day was a beautiful dream.



Rachel and Sam chose to say their vows in front of the Greenhouse surrounded by their loved ones. Selahray Florals adorned florals around the antique doors for the perfect backdrop. Guests were invited to the open-air pavilion for dinner and dancing. Rachel and Sam had the perfect blend of timeless elegance and pure romance.



From the bride… We were extremely blessed to have hosted our wedding at the The Ivy Rose Barn with photographer Nicole Colwell Photography. Nicole’s reputation precedes her and her dreamy photography invokes emotion. The words that kept coming up when we were designing our wedding were: timeless and romantic. Nicole guided our every decision and offered the perfect design ideas at every turn. I surprised Nicole with my dress, which I designed with Anomalie, to reflect not only my style but the style of Ivy Rose as well. We are enterally grateful and will bearish this day forever.



Https://nicolecolwellphotography. Passgallery. Com/-rachelsampreviewgallery

Photography: Nicole Colwell Photography | Cinematography: Austin Evans | Event Planning: The Ivy Rose Barn | Floral Design: Selah Ray Florals | Wedding Dress: Anomalie | Cake: For The Love Of Sweets | Invitations: Sweet NC Collective | Brides Shoes: Stuart Weitzman | Catering: Pumpernickel Pickle | DJ: Sonic Sound | Favors: Sweet NC Collective | Wedding Venue: The Ivy Rose Barn | Alterations: Cotton Lifestyles | Bartending: Tabby's Bartending | Beauty: Locks & Lashes | Brides Earrings: Mejuri | Brides Necklace: East West Gem Co | Engagement Ring Designer: East West Gem Co | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: The Heirloom Collection by Ivy Rose | Weddings Rings: Dana Rebecca Designs

A Sweet And Sustainable California Wedding

Our bride and groom don’t only share the same name, but also a love for sustainability! For their wedding, Hao and Hao decided to go with dried flowers for a beautiful and eco-conscious look.  Lovely Time planned the picture-perfect day, and tumbleweed floral design created artful elegance from the ceremony to the reception.  Every magical moment was captured in time in the incredible imagery by Studio Opia, visit the full gallery for all the darling details.




From Lovely TimeThe first time I visited the venue with the couple, we found a dreamy old barn on the property filled with dried flowers preserved from the venue’s spring and summer blooms and from previous weddings. The idea highly influenced the design of the wedding. Dried flowers and the idea of a sustainable wedding played a big part of the wedding, the welcome table, reception table flowers, and especially the epic ceremony backdrop. The florist did a great job of putting up the big palm leaf backdrop for the ceremony, which turned into an Instagram/Tiktok-worthy photo booth to keep the guests entertained.



From the bride… A fun fact is that I share the same first name with my husband. So we customize the big Hao sign on our ceremony backdrop, which makes the whole scene so unique and so Hao. And our first name also shares the same pronunciation as the word “good” in Chinese. An old Chinese proverb says good things come in pairs. And we played with the homophone on our RSVP sets and favor boxes.  From the groom… My wife and I are both videographers and we had worked on a wedding at Park Winters before and fell in love with the property. I joked about having our own wedding here back then. And now here we are. I love that the venue has a retro vibe but can also be very modern. It gives us a lot of freedom to achieve our not-so-big wedding dream. And the venue is pet friendly, which is also very important to us. Because we wanted our dogs, Sashimi and Poke to be present when we tie the knot.



From Studio OpiaThe wedding is all about being unique and being themselves. There are custom pieces in every shot. The bride hand-painted the matched motorcycle jackets and made the groom’s bow tie. The vintage hat and lace gloves are custom accessories, which makes her Downton Abby dream fantasy come true. Her retro floral green dress was made for the bride by a fashion designer friend of hers and is one of a kind.



Https://studioopia. Pic-time. Com/-ASacramentoWeddingwithEverlasting: SMPP

Photography: Studio Opia | Event Planning: Lovely Time | Floral Design: tumbleweed floral design | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Cake: La Vie Douce Design | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Claude | Wedding Venue: Inn At Park Winters | Beauty: Alice Tang | Rentals: Standard Event Rentals | Rentals: BBJ La Tavola

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Diaries of a Blogger Bride: Come Along With NYC-Based Blogger Corey Golden as She Plans Her Dream Hamptons Wedding!

Hi everyone! I’m Corey Golden: NYC-based blogger (@seegoldenstyle on Instagram), Merchandising Editor at ELLE and Harper’s BAZAAR, marketer, and most recently, interior designer (Corey Golden Design). I’ve always worn many hats…and I’m about to add *wife* into the mix! Like many modern couples, I met my fiancé Brian on a dating app…twice (once the summer before, but we only texted). Fast forward to three years later and we’re engaged, living on the Upper East Side, and planning an intimate, summer wedding in my grandparent’s backyard in Westhampton Beach, NY.  I’m so excited to take you along on our wedding planning journey, from finding the dress to choosing flower arrangements, from unexpected challenges to lessons learned, all documented here in my SMP wedding planning diary! 

Wedding Date: June 11, 2022
Wedding Style: Beach romance with a dose of Hamptons elegance

Stephanie Sunderland

All about the proposal…

In May, Brian popped the question on the beach in Westhampton. Little did I know, our families had secretly flown in and were waiting to celebrate with us afterwards at my favorite restaurant, including both sets of my grandparents (who hadn’t traveled since the beginning of COVID), our parents, and our siblings. The entire weekend was a dream come true and so thoughtfully planned out by Brian. I still can’t believe he pulled off such a massive surprise without anyone spilling the beans! Ever since, we’ve been floating around on engagement cloud nine while planning our wedding for next summer. 

 

September 2021: 9 Months before the wedding!

We’re getting married!!! And it is finally starting to feel real. 

September has been a huge month in wedding planning…we had our engagement shoot, sent out our save the dates, went on a trip to Bermuda to celebrate our engagement, and I “proposed” to my bridesmaids. 

The engagement shoot was a true highlight. I had a vision for the photos and it was so much fun bringing that vision to life! I knew I wanted to use the photos for our save the date and loved the idea of “teasing” our venue, so we shot in front of my grandparent’s house. I wore my dream dress by Mestiza New York and had a total princess moment. We also got in some practice with our wedding photographer (@stephaniesunderland) before the big day.

Stephanie Sunderland

I designed our save the dates on Minted and could not recommend them enough! Every little detail was perfect…from the blue foil-press, to the wax seals. I was so excited to drop them off at USPS! 

Our engagement trip to Bermuda was so special and felt like the perfect end to summer. We stayed at the Rosewood Bermuda and loved every minute. I was so shocked at how easy the trip was…from NYC, we were there in under 2 hours! A huge highlight of the trip was our boat day…we toured the island, snorkeled, and hiked up a cliff on a private beach. 

I had so much fun coming up with a creative way to propose to my bridal party! Since we’re getting married out east, I landed on custom boxes filled with “Hamptons Wedding Essentials.” The boxes included Tate’s Cookies, mini bottles of Wölffer rosé, travel-sized Coola sunscreen, a seashell hair clip, gold friendship rings with each person’s name from Retail Therapy Jewelry, and a hand-written card. 

Xo Corey

 

October 2021: 8 Months before the wedding!

First comes love. Then comes the dress…

I had it all planned out. Due to COVID restrictions in NYC bridal shops, only two or three people were allowed to come dress shopping with me. And between my two sisters/co-maids of honor, my mom, and my future mother-in-law, I didn’t want anyone to miss out. So I planned to visit 6 different boutiques spanning two days and bring a different group each day. Given my background in fashion, I definitely thought it would take me at LEAST two days (and then some) to make my final decision. But little did I know, the dress of my dreams would be the first one I tried on.

If I’m being honest, I was not the girl who grew up dreaming of her wedding dress (which may come as a shock to my friends and family). So when it came time to start making my dress appointments, I spent hours on Pinterest and Instagram finding inspiration, designers, and boutiques. I walked into my first appointment feeling pretty clear about what I wanted, as far as the overall look, and I even had one specific dress in mind that I thought would be the one (which I wasn’t supposed to see until day 2). 

My dress ended up being the first one I pointed to on the rack and the first one I tried on, so it definitely felt meant to be. When I walked out of the dressing room to an audience exclaiming “we’re done!”, I honestly didn’t believe it! I knew the dress was special, but I didn’t have that “bridal moment” you see in movies and no tears were shed. I was expecting two full days of dress shopping…I couldn’t wrap my head around finding THE dress on my first try!  I spent a lot of time in the dress, taking videos and photos, but it wasn’t until after the day was over that I knew without a doubt ( I ended up switching my appointments around so I could try on the dress that I originally thought would be the one, just to be sure). 

For all the brides out there looking for some dress shopping tips, here are my top 3: 

  1. Do your hair and makeup!! I cannot stress this enough. It really helped me get a clearer picture of what I would look like in the dress on the actual day. And it just feels more special that way :) 
  2. Do your research, but come with an open mind. It is SO hard to know what a wedding dress will look like on your body before you actually try it on. I do think it’s helpful to have a general idea of what you want before your appointments, but at the end of the day, you want the dress to be perfect for YOU. And if that means it’s not the dress you envisioned, that’s totally okay! 
  3. Take photos AND videos! The photos are amazing to have, but I love looking back at the videos specifically. It’s just so special to be able to rewatch how happy I was!   

Here are the boutiques I went to in NYC: 

  1. Mark Ingram Atelier – This is where I found the one! If you’re interested in seeing a certain designer, I suggest calling ahead to see if they have a trunk show coming up. This way, you can preview the latest collections that aren’t in stores yet! 
  2. Spina Bride – This showroom is SO beautiful! It would be hard to try on a dress in this boutique and not feel beautiful. 
  3. Bridal Reflections – This is where I thought I’d find my dress! It was definitely helpful knowing ahead of time which boutiques carry certain designers. They have a great selection of Galia Lahav. 

Other boutiques that were on my list: Wedding Atelier, Monique Llhuillier, Grace Loves Lace, L’Fay Bridal, Bergdorf Goodman

P.S. Don’t worry, none of these photos are of my dress! :) 

Xo Corey

 

November 2021: 7 Months before the wedding!

In the movies, creating your wedding registry is portrayed as this romantic, effortless process where you and your husband-to-be peruse the aisles of department stores, scanning as you go. But as many other brides will tell you, that is far from the reality of registry creation. 

Of the two of us, I am definitely the one who is more passionate about interiors. With the exception of a few random items for which Brian will have a strong opinion (i.e. a basket that serves no purpose), he pretty much lets me take the lead on design and trusts my eye. That being said, he had no interest in romantically scanning the department store aisles for our registry as I had envisioned. So…I enlisted the help of my future MIL! Tip #1) Creating a registry can be overwhelming, so find someone who has similar taste for you to bounce ideas off of. Bonus if they can come with you to appointments! 

Initially when I thought about our registry, I didn’t want to include much. We had recently moved in together prior to getting engaged, so we had already purchased a lot of the “typical” registry gifts. But the more that I looked around, the more I started to look at creating our registry a bit differently. Tip #2)  If you’re like us, don’t be afraid to branch out with non-traditional choices, like a beautiful set of luggage, a honeymoon fund, or an experience gift. I’m obsessed with the vintage feel of this luggage from Bric’s-it’s the perfect gift to take you from the honeymoon to all your future travels as a married couple! I included the cream set for myself and the black set for Brian. 

Tip #3) The registry is also an opportunity to upgrade pieces that get a lot of everyday use, especially in the kitchen. Think: an ultra luxe coffee machine, a matching set of coffee cups (because if you’re like us, you have a LOT of mismatched cups), or a fresh set of bakeware. We loved this nonstick gold set from Williams Sonoma, especially the pizza pan! 

Tip #4) Lastly, the registry is a great time to start thinking about future entertaining needs. Maybe you only have enough dinnerware for 6 guests, but want to be able to host 12 in a future home. We were missing a great cheese board and some key serveware pieces. Overall, I wanted to incorporate touches of natural, woven elements to bring a little bit of that relaxed Hamptons feeling to NYC, but not too much where it feels out of place in our city apartment, like this chip and dip and these coasters

Tip #5) My biggest piece of advice is to have fun with it! And don’t choose items just because you think you’re supposed to-focus on things you will actually use as a couple! Happy shopping!

Xo Corey

 

December 2021: 6 Months before the wedding!

Picking a wedding photographer is one of the most important aspects of planning your wedding. After the cake is cut and the band goes home, photos let us relive the most special day of our lives over and over again.

We chose our photographer, Stephanie Sunderland, for a few reasons. First, her photos are beautiful. I found her on Instagram and was so impressed by her photography style. Second, our first conversation was easy and relaxed. I sensed she would be a calming presence on our wedding day. Finally, we had our engagement shoot with Stephanie and I’ve never seen Brian more comfortable in front of the camera. He actually enjoyed himself, which was unexpected for someone who notoriously hates photos.   

I sat down with Stephanie for a little Q&A on ALL things wedding photography, including her tips for finding the best lighting, where she finds inspiration, and her advice for brides-to-be:

Corey: Why did you decide to become a wedding photographer? 

Stephanie: It happened organically for me. I found a love for photography around the same time a lot of my friends were getting married. Many of them asked me to do their wedding photos and that is how it all started. However, I choose to keep doing weddings because I love being able to capture true emotions, tell a true story, and also get creative and shoot with a touch of an editorial style. It fills me as an artist and always keeps me inspired and ready to work my hardest. 

Corey: What is your favorite moment to capture? 

Stephanie: I love capturing the authentic and unposed parts of the day. The first look, ceremony, first dance, speeches, and all those beautiful in-between moments. My favorite photos happen when the couple is fully present and just being themselves. 

Corey: How would you describe your photography style? 

Stephanie: I always strive for timeless. I don’t like the terms light and airy or dark and moody when it comes to describing my style. I try to capture moments and couples as they are. I like to edit in a way that is not overly filtered or dramatically overexposed or underexposed. I want my couples to look back in 5, 10, 15, 30 years and still love their photos.  

Corey: What are your tips for finding the best lighting? 

Stephanie: For outdoor shooting, I really like back and side light or open shade. For indoors, I prefer window light or light coming in through the door. If I am ever unsure, I always take a quick circle around my subjects and look for the best light. 

Corey: What type of camera do you use? 

Stephanie: Canon 5d mark IV, Canon eos 3, and Pentax 645. 

Corey: Film vs. digital – what’s your POV?

Stephanie: I use and love both for different reasons. Film is precious, the shots are more thought out and selective. Film has a richness and depth that can’t be replicated-its tonal range and colors are just beautiful. Digital is amazing with how many shots you can take, you don’t ever miss a moment, and its low light abilities are impressive. I also love that you can edit digital to give it different looks and “feelings.” 

Corey: What are your tips for helping couples to feel comfortable in front of the camera? 

Stephanie: Don’t overthink or try to be perfect. I often have almost beautiful moments interrupted because a bride or groom needs to fix this or straighten that…if something is a bit out of place, it’s not going to ruin a beautiful photograph. Try to be present, authentically yourself, and ultimately forget the camera is even there.

Corey: Is there anything different about photographing an at-home wedding like mine? 

Stephanie: For me personally it is very similar to weddings at venues, but oftentimes a little sweeter because it is an extra special place for the couple. I love at home and backyard weddings. 

Corey: Where do you find inspiration? 

Stephanie: I find inspiration in all art forms, but especially other photography. I love looking at vintage photographs and magazine spreads. 

Corey: What is your best advice for brides-to-be?  

Stephanie: Enjoy being a bride, and especially soak in your wedding day! BE PRESENT. Although it can be stressful, it goes by so quickly and you don’t want to miss it because you are worried about things being “perfect.” 

Be sure to check out Stephanie on Instagram: @StephanieSunderland

 

Xo Corey

 

January 2022: 5 Months before the wedding!

Preparing for your wedding day is the best excuse to invest in all forms of self care–for your skin and hair, but also for your mind and body. In the last few months, I have gladly taken on the challenge of test driving workouts, products, treatments, and supplements to compile this month’s diary entry, which I’m calling Wedding Wellness. I’m rounding up all of my favorite aspects of my wellness routine and what I’ve found that truly makes me feel my best, from the inside out. This one goes out to all my fellow brides-to-be who could use a little extra TLC.

SKINCARE
If you’ve ever gotten a peek into my medicine cabinet on my Instagram, you know I am a total skincare product junkie. I love discovering new products to incorporate into my routine, but there are certain products I’ve used for years that I will always have in my arsenal. I get almost all my skincare products from Dermstore-they carry the best brands. But one tip that has nothing to do with products is drinking enough water! I recently purchased this sippy cup (made famous by the one and only Tinx) and swear it makes drinking water so much easier. I try to drink four 24oz cups per day and also squeeze lemon juice in for flavor!

AM Routine:
I always cleanse in the morning with iS Clinical’s Cleansing Complex. IS Clinical is a brand that I’ve discovered in the last few months and have become completely obsessed with. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley always raves about this brand in her interviews, and I’ll listen to just about anything she says. After cleansing, I use a combination of two of their serums – the Super Serum Advance Plus and the Hydra-Cool. The texture of their serums are unlike anything I’ve used before. My skin feels instantly softer. I follow with the Reparative Moisture Emulsion, which I use morning and night. If I have a few extra minutes in the morning, I love Skyn Iceland’s Hydro cool Firming Eye Gels. Putting those on while I have my morning matcha is the best way to start the day. For eye cream, I use SkinMedica’s TNS Eye Repair followed by Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy with SPF 35 in shade Medium. PM Routine:
I never, ever go to bed without taking off my makeup! I’ve been using Koh Gen Do’s Cleansing Spa Water with Shiseido Facial Cotton pads (the softest I’ve found). I also have the Koh Gen Do Cleansing Spa Water Cloths for travel and sometimes use them to double cleanse. One of my favorite products to exfoliate is First Aid Beauty’s Facial Radiance Pads. I swear, when I use these consistently, I rarely have breakouts. After cleansing with iS Clinical’s Cleansing Complex, I use SkinMedica’s HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator and iS Clinical’s Reparative Moisture Emulsion. Every other night, I switch off between the HA5 Serum and iS Clinical’s Active Serum, which is one of my favorite products. You can feel it working immediately after applying with this nice tingling sensation. I use the same SkinMedica eye cream in the evening as well. Some nights, when I have time to relax and take a bath, I love to put on iS Clinical’s Hydra-Intensive Cooling Masque.

HAIRCARE
Hair health is something I’ve been focusing on for the last year or so leading up to the wedding. I’ve tested SO many different brands, but always come back to OUAI. To start, the products smell insanely good. But more than that, I have yet to try a product from them that I don’t love. Jen Atkin is basically the queen of hair, so that comes as no surprise. I use the Medium Shampoo and Conditioner, and this Hair Treatment Mask once a week. When I’m styling my hair, I use the Leave In Conditioner before blow drying and the Texturizing Hair Spray to add hold and grit. My hair is naturally wavy, so if I let it air dry, I love the Wave Spray for beachy texture. I’ve also been taking Viviscal morning and night for the past 3 months. It has the lowest amount of Biotin that I’ve seen in a hair supplement, which is good for me because I notice that too much Biotin makes me break out.

SUPPLEMENTS
Gut health is super important, not only for feeling good but also for your skin and immune system. I’ve tried every probiotic out there, but my absolute favorite is Mary Ruth’s Organic Liquid Probiotic. It’s easy to use and super gentle. For me, it works best if I take it at night before I go to sleep (usually filling the dropper 3 times and putting it on my tongue). I’ve been using this for two years and swear by it!

HYRDAFACIALS
I have never been a believer in facials until I tried the HydraFacial. In the past, I always thought my skin was too sensitive for facials because, like clockwork, I’d break out the following day after treatment. I started seeing Ally at my dermatologist Dr. Marmur’s office Marmur Medical right after I got engaged and have seen her every 6 weeks since. I think what makes the HydraFacial unique is it combines deep cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration, so it works well for someone like me with combination skin. I leave every session feeling like a glazed donut, in the best way.

FITNESS
Hands down, my all time favorite workout is SLT. I have a love-hate relationship with the Megaformer (as I’m sure most do), but I really look forward to my workouts and leave feeling super strong. I have noticed that for me, lower intensity workouts are a better fit, and SLT truly is the best for building long, lean muscles. I try to go 3-4x per week! Also if you’re a runner, check out SLT Tread for a killer combo workout.
*A special treat for SMP: If you’re new to SLT, use code GOLDEN10 for $10 off your first class! (You can still get the new client two-pack after!) You can sign up on their website or download the SLT app.

BROWS
For all my fellow Upper East Siders with sensitive skin, Bespoke Brows is the only place I go to get my brows waxed and tinted. They use a lavender creme based wax at a lower temperature, specifically catering to us sensitive skin gals. Whereas in the past I would notice bumps or redness post-wax, I leave Bespoke without any irritation. I’ve been getting on a schedule for every 4 weeks leading up to the wedding and I don’t touch my brows in between visits. I see Rebecca, who is also the founder, but everyone is trained by her. They are walk-in only and I’ve never had to wait more than 5 minutes!

LASER HAIR REMOVAL
I’ve been getting laser hair removal for about 10 years on my underarms and bikini and it is the BEST investment. I also decided to get my legs done before the wedding. My favorite spot in the city is Erase Spa-the laser blows cold air, so I barely feel the zap.

MEAL DELIVERY
My fiance and I are both super busy during the week and don’t always have the time to cook healthy meals. We’ve tried a few different meal delivery services, but Health+ With Amanda is by far the best we’ve tried! She cooks the meals fresh every week and delivers them to your door. And the menu changes weekly so you’re never bored. Think healtified Carbone spicy rigatoni, chicken parmesan and pad thai. Basically, healthy, portioned versions of dishes you love. She delivers to NYC, LI, CT, & NJ! If you have any questions, feel free to DM me @seegoldenstyle

Xo Corey

 

February 2022: 4 Months before the wedding!

Grab your passport and get ready for a holiday in the sun…we’re headed to the Bahamas for #COREYSBEACHELORETTE!  I’m so excited to recap my bachelorette party & relive one of the best weekends of my life. 

 

CHECKING IN

Checking into The Cove at Atlantis Bahamas with my girls was honestly a dream come true. Immediately upon arrival, we were greeted by a grand, open air lobby and breathtaking views of the ocean. The hotel hooked us up with connecting rooms on the 17th floor, which my sisters/co-MOHs promptly decorated and turned into the most epic bridal suite of all time. The Cove was the ultimate bachelorette party destination, with spacious (and luxurious) rooms, beautiful beaches, yummy cocktails, and a million restaurants and activities to choose from…all in a setting that is equal parts relaxation and fun.

 

THE GIFTING SUITE

Since my friends traveled internationally to celebrate with me, I wanted to make their arrival a little extra special! I had so much fun putting together these gift bags with my Bahamas must-haves. Each bag included: a personalized beach bag by Quilted Koala with each girl’s name on the back, Melissa Odabash sandals, a Show Me Your Mumu coverup, Tissu Quotidien terry cloth scrunchies & personalized bucket hats with each girl’s first initial, and Coola sunscreen, lip oil, and makeup setting spray.   

 

DINING OUT

One meal was better than the next at Atlantis! And as a bonus, the restaurants were very accommodating for larger groups (think: private rooms). Here’s where we wined and dined: 

Olive’s – Mediterranean style with a great atmosphere, located right off the casino at Atlantis. A must order: the ​​Butternut Squash Tortelli. 

Nobu – You can never go wrong with Nobu! This was the perfect spot to kick off our big night out. Bonus: it’s directly next door to the club at Atlantis, Aura. As a surprise, my sister rented a limo to take us from The Cove to Nobu, which I highly recommend! 

Fish by José Andrés – For Bahamian cuisine and the freshest seafood, Fish is your spot. This was the perfect dinner choice for our final night, because it’s located right at The Cove. 

PLAYING TOURIST

For my bachelorette, I wanted a combination of beach relaxation and fun activities. One of the highlights of the trip was our Dolphin Cay experience. We high fived, hugged, and danced with our dolphin, all with a backdrop of the most picturesque view of the Atlantis hotel. It was a pinch me moment and a HUGE hit on the trip! 

Another must while in the Bahamas: a boat day! We booked ours through Island Yachts at Bay Street Marina, only a short cab ride from the hotel. We could not have had a better experience! As a surprise, they even decorated the boat (how sweet is that!) and had homemade drinks waiting for us on board. They helped us arrange for snacks and drinks, leaving us to dance and enjoy until sunset! 

After dinner on the final night, the girls planned a surprise evening of games in our suite and my mom sent us champagne and dessert (including a homemade SPARKLY cake from The Cove). This was my favorite part of the trip – it was just so special and I felt so loved! I highly recommend doing this on the final night, it was truly the perfect end to such a wonderful weekend. 

 

THE ITINERARY

My MOHs created this adorable itinerary and had it printed for each of the girls upon arrival! 

PACKING LIST 

I spent months curating my all white wardrobe for this trip! I had so much fun discovering new brands and coming up with creative bridal looks. Here’s a rundown of what was in my suitcase…

Overall, a HUGE thank you to my wonderful sisters & friends and to our incredible hosts at The Cove for making this trip one that I will never forget! The Bahamas will always have a piece of my heart. 

Xo Corey

 

March 2022: 4 Months before the wedding!

 

Gone are the days where a bride wears her ceremony gown for the entire evening. I knew I wanted to have my princess moment walking down the aisle, but loved the idea of changing into something a little slinkier before hitting the dance floor. Ladies…I said yes to the *second* dress! 

Katie May is a designer I’ve admired from afar for years, seeing her gorgeous designs on sites like Saks and Revolve. But I never knew she made custom bridal gowns until I came across one of the most beautiful dresses I had ever seen on her Instagram. I had been looking at options for months, but when I saw this dress, I just knew it was the one. 

Since Katie May makes all of her gowns in the Los Angeles design studio, I used the bespoke Bridal Box service to do everything from my apartment in NYC! The bridal box arrived in style, with dried florals, a scented sachet, cards that outline the entire fitting process, sample gowns, and everything from measuring tape to undergarments. I tried two different styles, so don’t worry, I’m not spoiling anything with these photos! 

During my virtual fitting, we took measurements, reviewed the fit of the gown, and discussed any adjustments. Once I returned the sample gowns, we officially placed my order! I cannot wait to show you the finished product, she’s a stunner.  

For any other brides-to-be, here’s more info on how to order Katie May’s Bridal Box. If you have any questions about the process, shoot me a DM @seegoldenstyle.  

Until next time!
Xo Corey

 

April 2022: Wedding day is right around the corner!

With the big day just around the corner, it’s time for the first official wedding event-my bridal shower! I was fortunate enough to celebrate with 30 of my closest friends and family in my hometown of Potomac, Maryland. Let’s take a moment and relive the most special day…

The morning of the shower, thunderstorms were in the forecast *no pun intended* (despite weather.com predicting sun the entire week before), so we had to make a gametime decision to move inside. And I have to say, although the original outdoor location was gorgeous, the room we chose made the shower so much more intimate. If I had to do it over, I would’ve chosen the indoor location from the beginning! 

I worked with my grandma and the wonderful team at Minted Weddings to design the beautiful invitations. I loved the old school feeling of the umbrella, and the pink and gold color scheme set the tone for the day-of decor. 

And now for the outfit! My dress was by Bronx and Banco, heels by Stuart Weitzman, clutch by From St. Xavier, and earrings by Jennifer Behr

My wonderful grandmother and three aunts hosted the shower and they did such an incredible job. The decor was so dreamy, from the macaroon & flower centerpieces, to the *kiss the miss goodbye* mini mason jar favors filled with Sugarlips (my favorite candy), to the most incredible cake I have ever seen from my soon to be mother-in-law.  

Just in time for dessert, my handsome fiance arrived with flowers in hand! There were speeches, games, and so much love. 

A huge thank you to Elisenda, our talented photographer, for documenting every little detail. I didn’t even pick up my phone once during the shower, she had it covered! We booked her through Flytographer, my go-to for photographers while traveling. 

1 month countdown!! 

Xo Corey

May 2022: Weeks before the wedding!

As I write this, I am nearly two weeks away from the big day! It has made me feel so sentimental reading through my past entries and reliving my entire wedding planning journey. As my final entry, I’ve decided to share my last minute wedding tips for all my future brides-to-be!

 

  1. Don’t check the weather until you absolutely have to (especially if your wedding is outdoors)! At the end of the day, weather is one of the few things that is completely out of your control. Checking the weather weeks before will either provide false hope or unnecessary stress. 
  2. Consider hiring a dresser for the day of! I went back and forth on this, but decided to hire Francesca DiSpirito and am so happy I did. She will be by my side the entire day to make sure my gown looks perfect, while also steaming dresses for my bridal party and making everything as stress-free as possible. 
  3. Schedule all of your beauty appointments (and make sure they’re in the right order)! My schedule is as follows (in order): 2+ weeks out – highlights, laser hair removal, and a well-deserved massage. 1 week out – eyebrows, facial, mani/pedi, spray tan. 
  4. Don’t make any changes to your skincare routine. Now is NOT the time to try a new facial or treatment!
  5. Try to be in the moment and soak it all in. Easier said than done I know, but anytime I feel even a little bit of stress, I just remind myself to enjoy it because it will be over in a flash! I am fully embracing my last two weeks as a fiancé! It is very natural that you may hit some bumps in the road during the final countdown, but at the end of the day, all that matters is that you’re marrying the love of your life in front of all the people that matter most. 

 

It has been so special being able to share my wedding planning journey with SMP! Thank you for following along. Make sure to check out @seegoldenstyle for all the wedding deets on June 11th! 

 

Xo Corey

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Corey Golden

Contributing Editor
West Coast Cool Meets Martha’s Vineyard Charm at This Edgartown Wedding

Personalization was the key to this Martha’s Vineyard dream of a day! Sandy and Robert filled their wedding with nods to where they’re from, things they enjoy, and even the hotel that started it all. Timeless Event Planning effortlessly planned and designed the details (check out the rattan lighting at the reception!) and Morrice Florist put together soft-hued florals that added to the romance. When we say we’re swooning, we mean it. The full gallery captured by Elizabeth LaDuca is just waiting for you to dive in!

In 2014, Sandy and Robert both quit their corporate jobs and moved to the little island of Martha’s Vineyard. Both were looking for summer fun and landed jobs at the Harbor View Hotel, Sandy as a wedding planner and Robert as a pool boy. They met the first week of work in front of the copy machine that Sandy had jammed, and she was instantly smitten.

After four years of dating, Robert brought Sandy back to the Vineyard to the same hotel and the same copy machine, surprising her by popping the question at where they first met.

For their wedding, personalization was key, with everything needing to have a purpose and make sense as to why they would include it in their big day. Since they both lived in San Diego, the goal was to bring a touch of West Coast vibes to the traditionally East Coast island and the hotel that started it all. 

The color palette was vibrant like the sunsets they enjoyed together, and all of the food was inspired by their favorite date nights. Their signature drinks were even called the Pool Boy and the Wedding Planner as a nod to how they first met. 

Since they had to cut the guest list short due to COVID, creating a personalized experience for their guests was important for the couple. Sandy handmade ceramic vases that doubled as escort cards for each guest. Once guests found their seats, each place setting featured a personalized letter sharing a favorite memory about them.

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Photography: Elizabeth LaDuca | Videography: SJ Videography | Floral Design: Morrice Florist | Cake: Val Cakes | Invitations: RSVP | Stationery: Samantha Meyer Studio | Shoes: Loeffler Randall | Jewelry: a.b.Ellie | Ring: Diamonds on the Rock | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Vows | Band: Sultans Of Swing | Suit: The Black Tux | Officiant: Justin Brooks | Wedding Venue: Harbor View Hotel | Chargers: Seaside Celebrations | Cookies: The Vineyard Baker | Dress Designer: Anais Anette | Dress Store: Ceremony | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Planning and Design: Timeless Event Planning | Rentals: Big Sky Tent & Party Rentals | Veil: Sara Gabriel | Video Footage: City Point Films⁠⁠ | Vow Books: Claire Magnolia

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For membership information, click here
Lit Up With Love: Gabrielle’s Très Romantique Inspiration for a Parisian Wedding Affair

Paris – the City of Love and the city that has captured my heart. Long before I ever stepped foot on a quaint Parisian rue, I was fascinated by the allure of the city – its je ne sais quoi. My admiration for Paris was sparked when I was five years old and discovered that my name has French origins. Growing up, I remember watching one scene on repeat from The Devil Wears Prada – the sparkling montage of Paris at nighttime, set to U2’s “City of Blinding Lights.” I was mesmerized. My curious fascination turned into an enduring adoration when I began taking French classes and ultimately visited (and lived) in the city of my dreams. The culture, the architecture, the fashion, the cuisine, the feeling of simply strolling along the Seine or sipping a café on a terrasse – need I say amour? To me, the city represents all the things that fill life with beauty, wonderment, and purpose. It is the epitome of sheer romance, and I can’t imagine a more perfect destination for a wedding. So, from the archives of my Pinterest Boards, I have curated inspiration from how I dream of my future wedding day – a marriage of my signature feminine style and the city I adore most. I hope it fills you with joie de vivre and maybe even inspires you to take a trip to Paris to experience it for yourself!

 

First, tell us a little bit about the locale, season and setting of your inspo!

The City of Love (and Lights) is beautiful any and every time of year – it’s the dreamiest destination for the quintessential romantic bride! Though, nothing compares to Paris in the Spring with the cherry blossoms (cerisiers) and gardens abloom. The Jardin du Luxembourg and Jardin du Palais-Royal make exquisite backdrops for post-ceremony photo opps – exuding Parisian charm and the beauty of vibrant springtime flowers!

 

Can you describe your ideal type of venue to match the setting?

The Musée Rodin! This château-like museum, dedicated to the famed French sculptor, is perfect for Francophiles who want to infuse French culture and history into their special day! Plus, it features stunning indoor spaces (including a spiraling staircase) and lush gardens, making it not only breathtaking but also versatile! I envision the ceremony taking place in its enchanting gardens with the reception inside one of its palatial rooms. Or, I imagine a glass tent where the newlyweds and their loved ones dance the night away under the shimmering stars and twinkling lights of the city! 

 

Tell us about your color palette!

Soft blush, mauve, and cream hues are the focus of the palette – complete with pops of lilac and dusty blue!

 

Which wedding dress style fits your bridal aesthetic best?

Unapologetically feminine and distinctively elegant describe the essence of my dream bridal style for this Parisian affair! I picture a ball gown or trumpet-style dress with a sweetheart neckline – strapless or off-the-shoulder! I’m thinking of a Monique Lhuillier or Marchesa that features a little drama – think Monique Lhuillier’s iconic floral print gowns or Marchesa’s use of 3D floral motifs. I can even imagine a soft, blush gown for this occasion!

 

In a few words, describe the overall look and vibe of your inspiration. How do you want your guests to feel?

Ethereal romance, a refined Parisian-inspired occasion with touches of fairytale whimsy. Florals are the centerfold of the décor, and I imagine dainty crystal accents! I want guests to feel swept away by the enchantment of the day and the city! 

Wedding At Luxurious Villa D’Este Lake Como

This couple celebrates their Lake Como wedding in the sweetest of ways, with their baby daughter! Elena Renzi planned the waterside affair filled with food, fun, family, and friends.  The neutral color palette of blooms by Ratti Flora beautifully complimented the natural beauty of the location, and everything was artfully captured in the imagery by Koman Photography.  Visit the full gallery for a look at all the lovely.




From Koman PhotographyThree months after we met for the first time on a video call with Elina and Sam, they had their first baby Sofia, such a wonderful event! We fell in love with this lovely couple and their little girl and made sure that their wedding day was going to be simply perfect. In Persian culture, weddings are not to be celebrated quietly and discreetly but, on the contrary, they need to be joyful and lavish, which is why Elina and Sam chose to get married in the gardens of one of the most luxurious villas on Lake Como, Villa D’Este.



With its elegant structure that conveys its majesty at first glance, its large and beautifully designed spaces, and its access from the lake, it was the perfect location for such a sumptuous wedding. Organizing a Persian wedding is anything but simple, but it is the attention that tradition pays to the single detail that makes it truly impressive. Traditionally, couples pronounce their vows seated at a low table with a strong symbolic value: no one but the bride and groom and their loved ones may touch it, not even the wedding planner, who must leave it to the people in charge to bring the precious tablecloth and richly set the table.



On the table, the objects that stand out above all others are the mirror and the candelabra, representing light and fire each, two elements of great symbolic value. Other objects, some of which arrived directly from Iran, include a tray of spices, representing abundance; hard-boiled eggs, symbolizing fertility; crystallized sugar cones, invoking a sweet life for the bride and groom; decorated bread, the Koran and so on. Particularly moving is the moment when the bride and groom promise each other a conjugal future full of sweet words by covering each other’s lips with honey.



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Photography: Koman Photography | Cinematography: Koman Photography | Event Planning: Elena Renzi | Floral Design: Ratti Flora | Makeup: Davide Brustia | Hair: Carmel Ospina | Lights, Music and Outdoor Furniture: Blu Notte | Location: Villa D'Este