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The Galentine’s Day Gift Guide For Every Gal in Your Life

Valentine’s Day isn’t just about spoiling your significant other, it’s also about letting everyone you love know just how much they mean to you. If you’re feeling the Valentine’s Day spirit, considering gifting your best gals a little something this February 14th. Need some ideas? Check out some of our favorite Galentine’s Day gifts!

Galentine's Day Gifts
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Galentine's Day Gifts
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Style Me Pretty Contributor – Jessica Tzikas is a freelance writer, editor, and content manager from South Florida, who recently moved back to the sunshine state after living in Philadelphia for the past few years. When she isn’t writing, you can find her reading by the beach, spoiling her black lab, and exploring nearby towns with her new husband.

Miles and Miles of Sand Make for Epic Wedding Photos

Miles and miles of sand paired with the most gorgeous lighting, a pastel bouquet by Blue Ladder Botany, and a timeless, hand drawn paper suite by Pirouette Paper – all we can say is yes, yes, yes, and yes! This editorial captured by Mallory Dawn Photography and coordinated by Just a Kiss Weddings and Events has us singing its praises from the rooftops, it’s so darn pretty.

From Mallory Dawn PhotographyMiles and miles of open sand dunes make for one epic view. That jaw-dropping sight mixed with the gorgeous light in Glamis, California, created the perfect ambiance for this wedding inspiration. Destiny of Just a Kiss Weddings and Events gracefully handled all of the coordination with the vendors while I worked on the design and style aspect of the shoot. Diamant of Blue Ladder Botany created a stunning arrangement of florals for our bride to hold. She incorporated deep, rich greens as well as soft pastel colors for the bouquet. Kaylyn, the talent behind Pirouette Paper, put together some timeless paper goods for the invitation suite and hand drew elements on textured paper. We wanted simple, clean lines for the bridal gown, and this Elizabeth Dye wedding dress was the perfect piece for our bride to wear. We also wanted to keep with the pastel theme, so we were sure to grab a light grey suit for our groom. Theresa of Kohnur composed a timeless and elegant makeup look as well as a delicate updo hairstyle. Film is definitely my favorite choice of medium. The way it handled the golden light added an overall sense of romanticism and effortlessness to the images, bringing them to life.

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Photography: Mallory Dawn Photography | Coordination: Just A Kiss Weddings And Events | Floral Design: Blue Ladder Botany | Wedding Dress: Elizabeth Dye | Hair + Makeup: Kohnur | Groom's Attire: Friar Tux | Film Lab: Goodman Film Lab | Models: Jilliene Marie, Eric Jernigan | Paper Goods, Calligraphy: Pirouette Paper | Ribbon: Bellame Ribbon | Ribbon: Honey Silks And Company | Styling Board: Heirloom Bindery | Veil: Blush Ivory Gowns

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
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10 Getting Ready Moments to Have Your Photographer Capture

Getting ready to meet my groom was one of my most cherished parts of my wedding day. The sweet anticipation is like no other. Thankfully my photographer captured all of those moments so beautifully and they take me back instantly. Chances are, your photog will know what to do so you don’t have to give them direction (and you can fully soak in the day!), but it doesn’t hurt to express some of the special moments you’d like to remember beforehand. Here’s a little inspiration!

Boudoir Beauty

If you’re feeling comfortable enough, do a mini boudoir session with your photographer! A perfect post-wedding gift for your new hubs, too.

Admiring Your Dress

Take one last look, things are about to officially get real!

Donning Your Dress

You’ve waited months to wear this stunner! And we’re betting your smile will shine so bright when you slip into that beauty.

The Spritz

Have a signature scent? That scent will remind you of your wedding day for years to come. Have your photographer capture that sweet moment.

Putting on the Sparkle

Whether you’re wearing your grandmother’s pearl earrings or purchased a new pair for yourself, putting on your wedding day bling is such a sweet moment.

Dress Details

Ask your photographer to capture your favorite details of you dress.

Primping

Whether applying a final layer of lipstick or perfecting those locks, capture those last-minute touch ups.

 

Slipping into Your Shoes

Chances are, your shoes won’t get much attention if you’re wearing a long dress! Have your photographer shine the spotlight on them before you walk down the aisle.

A Moment with Your Favorite People

Whether you’re toasting with your bridesmaids or having mom put on your necklace, these are the moments that you’ll cherish forever.

A View of the Veil

You’re almost ready! Get a view through your veil for a final moment before your walk down the aisle or head out for your first look.

How to Tie in a Little Piece of the Sea on Your Special Day

If you love the water but your big day is happening a bit further inland, you can still bring a little piece of the sea into your celebration. For this couple’s anniversary session at a lovely, Spanish-inspired La Rio Mansion, this beach-loving duo had Taylor Bible Weddings create a seashore vibe using clean white china and pops of gorgeous, pale blue along with incorporating sea glass and oyster shell accents. Lovely Leaves Floral Design tied it all together, and the resulting gallery captured by Hannah Haston Photography is sweeping us off our feet.

From Lovely Leaves Floral DesignTaylor and Tevin are the absolute sweetest couple! They married last year in a Texas Hill Country vineyard, but they love the beach, and so this was perfect for their one year anniversary. It’s not often that we get to plan a styled shoot with a theme for real couple. The day was so much fun and completely perfect.

La Rio Mansion is located in the small town they now call home. The venue was selected for its stunning stone architecture. Hannah Haston captured the most beautiful emotion on film that they will forever cherish, commemorating their first year.

Colors were a very pale blue with a lovely mix of neutrals. Florals included white dahlias, anemones, cosmos, veronica and delphiniums with the perfect amount of petite spray roses. We love to infuse weddings with greenery – southern smilax, ivy, and maiden hair fern are some of our favorites.

Taylor Bible Weddings used clean white china with silver flatware and layered fabrics on the table — a sheer with unfinished edges over a pale blue linen. For brides who dream of days on the beach, sea glass and oyster shells are ethereal accents, which offer a way to incorporate the place they love into their special days. Gold rimmed sea glass glasses in addition to sea glass bottles and oyster shells galore tied in some of Taylor’s favorite things about the beach.

Taylor’s gown came from Georgio’s Bridal, one of our favorite boutiques nestled in the heart of Waco. The soft tulle and lace appliqués tied in with the romantic feel. Her shoes were to-die-for. I love wedding booties, and these white gems were fabulous. Her hair was wind blown and magical, and her makeup was clean and natural, with the help of Southern Belles Beauty.

No anniversary would be complete without a chilled bottle of champagne, so we picked them up a beautiful bottle from one of their favorite local restaurants.

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Photography: Hannah Haston Photography | Event Design: Taylor Bible Weddings | Floral Design: Lovely Leaves | Cake: Lily's Cakes | Reception Venue: La Rio Mansion | Hair + Makeup: Southern Belles Beauty | Calligraphy: test | Bridal Boutique: Georgio's Bridal | Champagne: Pignetti's Italian Restaurant | Rentals: Confetti Rentals

This is What Tuscan Dreams Are Made Of…Gelato Included

This Tuscan wedding captured by Katie Grant is guaranteed to live up to all of your Italian wedding dreams…complete with gelato. Set among the cypress tress and sweeping vineyard views of Tuscany, it fully takes advantage of the gorgeous countryside with an alfresco celebration designed by Che Chic, along with florals by Janna Brown Design.

Melissa and Jordan found it no difficult task on deciding where to hold their intimate destination wedding. The rolling hills of Tuscany with it’s Cypress lined roads, lush vineyards and sunny disposition were the perfect surrounds for their day. While they didn’t get the last part (sunshine), the day was pure magic. Styled by Che Chic weddings with florals by Janna Brown Design, their day was ripe with lush centrepieces and local foliage, glowing taper candles and inspiring decor. A fun and vintage gelato cart and local cocktails served guests while waiting out the rainstorm. Later, the guests dined on traditional Italian fare at long tables under a romantic canopy.

Photography: Katie Grant Photography | Floral Design: Janna Brown Design Co. | Gown: Watters | Both: Borghetto Poggio Bianco | Candles: Creative Candles | MUAH: Lee Max Team | Paper: Indigo Eleven | Scans: Atkins Pro Lab | Silk: Silk and Willow | Styling and Planning: CheChic!Weddings

The Perfect Recipe for a Valentine’s Date Night At Home

When Valentine’s Day falls on a Wednesday, a date night at home sounds incredibly appealing. It might be the fact that I have a tiny human and enjoy an early bedtime now—but I also kind of love the idea of skipping the crowds and doing something a little more intimate in the comfort of our abode. You with me? Then you’ll want to fully soak up this inspiration from Marie Flanigan and Alba Huerta. From setting the table to mixing up cocktails, Julie Soefer captured it all and it’s the perfect blueprint for a date night in!

Set the Stage

Mix It Up – Just because you aren’t hosting 20 people for a holiday dinner doesn’t mean your table should be neglected! Why not pull together settings using your family’s finest to create a moment that feels grand and unforgettably special? While you’re at it, don’t be afraid to mix and match place settings; old meets new and varied patterns and finishes come together for a look that feels casual yet sophisticated, and by pairing plates and silverware of varying styles in the same color palette, your table becomes a true celebration of texture!

Master Monochromatic Mood – V-Day doesn’t mean you’ve gotta’ go wild with the red and pink! Timeless monochromatic settings are brain soothers after a long day at the office and they serve up an attractive backdrop to the delicious food you’ll be plating. When you’re opting for a monochromatic moment, bring in rich textures through the use of placemats, linens, and runners. Chunky weaves layered against the gloss of a fresh white place setting lends depth and interest to a peaceful tablescape.

Waste Not, Want Not – There’s no need to run out and buy new table décor. Get creative and use elements you already have around your home, like garden greenery, fruit, baskets, jars, and votive candles, to set the mood. DIY-Queens looking for something more? Pull out your leftover holiday ribbon or twine to craft impromptu napkin rings and adorn leaves with you and your honey’s nicknames in gold paint pen for that extraordinary finishing touch.

Bring it Behind the Bar

Get Fresh – Fresh juice, that is! Alba recommends fresh juice when crafting cocktails to enhance the flavor and heighten the visual experience. Same goes for using fresh fruits and herbs as garnish.

Give ‘Em Some Sugar – Alba shares that the best simple syrups are crafted by hand and they’re not difficult to make! Dissolve sugar into super-hot water, allow it to cool, and then get mixing!

Shake Things Up [or Shall We Stir?] – Unless you’re making a classic martini, it can be tough to know which cocktails should be shaken and which should be stirred. Alba offers up a tip worth memorizing: Shake the drinks that have juice in them and stir the drinks that don’t. Of course, you will always find exceptions, so, when in doubt, taste test it out!

 

Pack a Punch

Although mixing a specialty cocktail for your loved one is a super thoughtful experience, there are times when you want to be more present and less concerned with constantly whipping up drinks! Alba suggests a punch for precisely those moments because they have a welcoming intent that feels warm and celebratory. Best of all, you can mix up a batch before your beau gets home, sip, and easily refill throughout the night!

Photography: Julie Soefer | Design + Styling: Marie Flanigan | Mixologist: Alba Huerta | Place Settings, Drink Mixing Utensils and Glassware: Kuhl-Linscomb

5 Questions Every Bridal Party Member Thinks About Asking

If you’ve been asked to be in a wedding party, you probably have a few questions that you don’t feel totally comfortable asking the bride or groom, so we’re here to help. We’ve outlined a few things you may be wondering about, there’s no need to feel ashamed!

“Can I say no to being a bridesmaid or groomsman?”
When you’re asked to be a bridesmaid or groomsman, it’s essentially the bride or groom saying, “You mean a lot to me and I would love to have you by my side while I get married.” It’s a big gesture, so unless you have a legitimate reason (you know you can’t make the wedding, you’re pregnant, etc.) you’re advised to say yes. If you say no without reason, there’s a good chance your friendship may suffer because of it, to put it bluntly. If you’re hesitant because of financial issues, let your friend know. You two are obviously close, so sit them down and express your concerns. Chances are you’ll be able to come up with some kind of solution.

“These bridesmaid dresses are very unflattering, and everyone agrees. Can we tell the bride?”
If the bride is really liking specific gowns and they clearly don’t fit or look like they’re making the other girls clearly uncomfortable, nominate the MOH to softly let her know that there might be other gowns out there that would make her ‘maids feel more comfortable. That being said, don’t push it; the bride gets the final say. It’s her wedding and as a supportive friend, you need to put the dress on, along your best smile, and get through the day without complaining. You can always sell the dress, alter it or get rid of it after the wedding. It’s just a few hours and it will make your friend happy.


“I don’t think I can afford the bachelor/bachelorette party, what should I do?”
The bottom line is, weddings are expensive. Whether you’re in one, having one, or attending one, there are a lot of costs to consider. It’s understandable if flying across the country for a weekend-long bachelor or bachelorette party is out of your budget, especially if you factor in the Airbnb, fancy dinners, and any other activities that are planned. That’s a lot of cash to cough up.

So what’s the best way to handle this? Be honest and open with the bride or groom you’re celebrating. Talk to them about your financial concerns. Explain that your main priority is attending the wedding and that it’s just not a possibility for you to be at both. Offer to do something special with them (if you live close by) or send a bottle of wine to the restaurant they’re dining at one night. If you’re good friends, they should be understanding of your financial situation.

“Do I have to get the bride/groom a gift for the wedding?”
Yes. Being in the wedding party does not excuse you from buying the newlyweds a gift. In fact, following proper wedding etiquette means the closer relationship you have to the couple, the nicer the gift you should buy. Yes, we know you just went to their bachelor/bachelorette party and traveled for the wedding, but this gift is all about the next chapter of their lives together, so don’t skimp on the wedding gift.

“I was asked to give a speech at the rehearsal dinner and I get terrible stage fright. Can I say no?”
Typically the maid of honor or best man gives a speech at the reception, but sometimes couples want their other close friends or family members to speak at the rehearsal dinner. Before you make a rash decision, you should feel flattered! They have a number of people they could ask to speak, but there is clearly a reason they chose you, so let that sink in.

If you’re still hesitant, consider what makes you nervous. Are you worried you won’t know what to say? If so, consult other bridesmaids or groomsmen and ask for their input. That way the burden doesn’t have to fall solely on you. If you’re more worried about giving the actual speech, ask the couple if you can do it with someone. Perhaps another bridesmaid or groomsmen can accompany you during your speech. If both of those suggestions are out of the question, sit down with the couple (or whoever you’re closer to) and explain that your nerves are getting the best of you and it would be best for the flow of the dinner to ask someone who is better suited for situations like that. Your friend is bound to understand.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Sarah Title is a travel & wedding writer and editor living in Washington D.C. She also works part-time at a bridal salon in Georgetown helping women find the perfect dress. When she isn’t working, you can find her at the closest oyster bar enjoying a glass of rose or catching up on the latest celebrity gossip.

Looking for the Perfect Wedding Venue? We Have the Answer

Finding the right wedding venue isn’t always easy. It takes a little bit of time, a little bit of patience and a little bit of help from the people who know. That’s why we are so excited for the 5th annual Wedding Show Weekend happening on March 10th and 11th. Hosted by the geniuses at Country Club Receptions and featuring over 35 country clubs and golf courses across the country (including 26 in the Golden State), it’s your chance to find that perfect venue all in one weekend. Plus it’s free to attend.

Wedding Show Weekend is an event that you honestly can’t miss. It’s stress-free and convenient, and with 26 country clubs and golf courses in sunny CA, you’re sure to find the right venue for you and yours. Plus, it’s all hosted by Country Club Receptions, our one-stop shop for venue info, especially if you happen to love natural settings, beautiful water features, luxe halls and customizable cuisine. Trust us on this one – whatever it is you are looking for, Country Club Receptions can help you find it.

Whether you’re planning an intimate affair with just your close friends and family or an epic celebration with everyone you know, the Wedding Show Weekend is your one-stop venue shop with an awesome list of country clubs and golf courses that are perfect for hosting your big event. Also perfect? Not taking weeks upon weeks to find that venue of your dreams and literally filling one amazing weekend with all of the locales you’ve been eyeing, so you can start planning. Not to mention the amazing vendors, on-site directors and tasty cuisine for you to sample.

Ready to meet the venue + vendor team that will make your dream day happen? RSVP for free on the Wedding Show Weekend website and start planning your two days of venue hopping. And be sure to visit their Pinterest, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for even more inspiration.

Photography: Taylor Kinzie Photography | Photography: Hitched Photo | Photography: Jes Workman | Photography: Olga Kubrak | Photography: BYC Photography | Photography: Jennifer Fujikawa Photography | Photography: Lokitm Photography | Photography: Christine Skari Photographer | Photography: Studio 23 Photography | Photography: Zelo Photography | Photography: Gilmore Studios | Photography: Pesiri Photo | Photography: Meghan Wiesman | Photography: Tepe Suz Photography | Venue: MountainGate Country Club | Venue: MountainGate Country Club | Venue: MountainGate Country Club | Venue: MountainGate Country Club | Venue: MountainGate Country Club | Venue: MountainGate Country Club | Venue: MountainGate Country Club | Bridal Show: Wedding Show Weekend | Country Club: MountainGate Country Club | Country Club: MountainGate Country Club | Golf Course: MountainGate Country Club | Golf Course: MountainGate Country Club | Golf Course: MountainGate Country Club | Golf Course: MountainGate Country Club | Golf Course: MountainGate Country Club

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
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This is One Love Story You Won’t Soon Forget

It’s not often you meet someone and know within a day that they are the one, but for Sheryl and Hakim, that’s exactly what happened. Yep, on the very day these two sweeties met, Hakim professed his love and marriage plans and two years to the day, they celebrated their “I do’s” in a gorgeous destination affair at Dreams Huatulco Resort & Spa. Fairytale romance? You know it – and it was all complete with a seaside ceremony and reception. See so much more captured by Adventure Photos right here.

From the Bride… The very first day Hakim and I met he told me that he was going to marry me; two years to the day we were married. Shortly after Hakim proposed, we knew we wanted to have a destination wedding somewhere warm, with the sand on our toes and the sun on our skin. After months of in-depth research, we finally decided on beautiful Huatulco. The Mexican culture, the food and the people were exactly what we were looking for.

We wanted authentic/quaint Mexico and that is exactly what we got in Huatulco. We booked Dreams Resort and Spa and immediately Monica, our amazing wedding planner, contacted us. Planning was the fun part, Monica was so accommodating and she did all the hard work! Once we had our destination picked, we began searching for photographers – if it is one thing we learnt from previous advice was that we needed to find an amazing photographer. We found our photographer through Instagram, began following her, reading reviews and found out she was affiliated with Dreams! It worked out in our favor, as her photography was flawless. Between the photos and the video, we get to relive our special day whenever we want. Thank you Laura, you are amazing.

Wedding dress shopping was one of my favorite experiences throughout the planning process. I tried on at least 40 dresses, but instantly knew my dress was the one when I put it on. The staff at Blissful Bridal helped make the experience what it was.

Hakim and I arrived in Huatulco five days before our guests; we wanted to spend a few days together relaxing and finalizing last-minute details. The resort and the staff lived up to the expectations we had – the views were breathless, the food incredible and the staff extremely friendly. We could not have asked for a better backdrop for our wedding. The day before our wedding, we booked a group catamaran full of snorkeling, swimming, drinking and eating, so that all of our guests could meet. The day of our wedding was filled full of laughter, smiles, tears and joy.

The feelings I experienced when walking down the aisle were unlike anything I have ever felt before. Surrounded by the people you love while you marry your best friend is something I will never forget. We would change nothing; our day was perfect thanks to our family, friends, wedding planner and photographer.

Words of Advice: All the small details start to add up and you can easily feel overwhelmed by the amount of work planning a wedding can be; stay organized, enjoy every moment from the planning, the wedding dress shopping and the bachelorette party. Listen to your intuition and everything will turn out flawlessly. Getting married is a once in a lifetime opportunity; the day flies by – soak in and cherish every moment!


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Photography: Adventure Photos | Floral Design: Floreria La Crucecita | Officiant: Eduardo Acevedo Salinas | Music: Mariachi Viva México | Resort : Dreams Huatulco Resort

An Absolutely Stunning Ceremony… And So Much More…

I’m at a loss for words to describe this wonder of a wedding before us right here. From the scenery to the style, it’s perfection and then some. But what truly brings it all together, is the deeper meaning behind it all. As this beautiful Bride stood at the end of the aisle, ready to make her way down and become a wife, she soaked up all the magic around her, arm-in-arm with her stepfather. And that reflection, described so wonderfully in her story below, takes all the pretty details and boosts them even more. The icing on the cake? Simply Sarah’s gorgeous photos of that special ceremony and everything else. This is one not to be missed.
P.S. Obsessed with these cuties as much as we are? Don’t miss their snowy engagement shoot right this way as well!

From the Bride… Ty and I met in February of 2015. We were both in the Dallas – Love Field Airport waiting to board a flight to DC. A friend of mine had just moved to DC so a group of us from Dallas were going to go visit and surprise him for his birthday, everyone else was on an earlier flight than me but because I had a late afternoon meeting, I was flying solo. Ty was with his friend, Chase and they were flying up to DC to visit Ty’s older brother. Because I had just come from an all day meeting, I was feeling a little behind on emails so I planned to get a lot done on my flight. Ty noticed me working away in the airport and when Southwest called for the A boarding group to line up, I quickly packed up my computer and the rest of my belongings and waltzed up to the front of the line, needless to say I was in the zone and was a woman on a mission. The next thing you know, I hear “um, excuse me… Do you think you can just cut in front of us?” I turned around to find two guys my age standing there and replied, “Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry! What boarding position are you guys?” Ty then replied that he was just kidding and told me to go ahead. I boarded and found a window seat and immediately pulled out my computer to start checking items off of my to-do list. A few minutes later, those same two guys came and asked me if anyone was sitting next to me. We spent the next several hours talking and getting to know each other and it turns out that Ty and I had been going to the same young adults ministry at church and that we all had a lot in common. I am not from Dallas originally, so in my mind I thought we were all going to be great friends, that we could go to church together and merge friend groups, etc. (I actually had a boyfriend at the time) but what I didn’t realize and what I wouldn’t find out for over a year, was that Ty was actually interested in me and wanted absolutely nothing to do with us just being friends. For the next year, we were acquaintances, I think I ran into him a couple of times but we didn’t really keep in touch. About a year later, I was newly single and I got a call from Ty asking if I would be interested in grabbing a drink. I still wasn’t sure if we were just grabbing drinks as friends, or if this was a date but I said that I would love to and was looking forward to getting to know him better. That night, we talked for four hours and had a great time. The rest is really history. Our first date was in April of 2016, we got engaged that December and then married on May 14, 2017. So many times I’ve looked back and wondered what I possibly could have said on that flight to peak Ty’s interest and how I’ve kept his interest all this time. To be honest, I don’t think it has anything to do with me and I truly believe that since day one, God has really just given Ty eyes for me and I couldn’t be more thankful. He is my greatest gift and it is my greatest honor to be his wife.

Our wedding day was an absolute dream. Ty and I went back and forth on what we wanted for our wedding and ultimately decided to do a smaller destination wedding in Lake Louise, Canada and it was the best decision we could have ever made. We got married on a Sunday, but most people came in on Thursday. That weekend we got to spend time with all of the people we love and it was so special to have everyone all in one place. Because we had the whole weekend to enjoy with everyone, the night of our wedding, Ty and I had an absolute blast together.

We got married in the mountains and I really didn’t want anything to take away from that so I wanted to keep the décor pretty simple, natural and organic with a lot of greenery and white. All of our vendors were exceptional and so talented. I had never been to Canada until the weekend of our wedding so I didn’t have an opportunity to meet a single vendor before our wedding weekend and I was blown away by everyone’s talent and execution. It really was so perfect and special and I’m just so thankful.

Right before the wedding ceremony (which was outside) it was literally blizzarding. Haha seriously… Snowing is an understatement and we obviously weren’t expecting that. But within a few minutes, we all watched the clouds roll over, the blue skies open up and the sun come out. That in and of itself was amazing to witness. But… my absolute favorite memory (which I don’t even know if I’ll be able to properly put into words or do justice to it), was right before I walked down the aisle. I was standing with my step-dad, who is the most incredible man I know and before we started the processional he stopped me and just said, “Wow, Sarah. Stop and let this sink in. Have you ever seen anything like it?” I looked up and there I was, dressed in white, with my step-dad by my side and before my eyes was the most incredible thing I have ever seen. The strings were playing, the sun was shining and the mountains and the scenery were absolutely exquisite and just so breathtaking; seventy-five of our closest friends and family, the people who are most special to us, were standing up and looking at us, waiting for me; and at the end of the aisle was my groom, my perfect, handsome groom who was also waiting for me. In that moment, I was just so humbled to be standing there, with all of those people, and humbled to be marrying Ty, who is nothing short of the man of my dreams. When I think back on that moment and what it looked like and how it felt to be standing there, I just cry. I think it is the closest thing to experiencing Heaven this side of eternity. It was the perfect picture of Christ and the church and what our reunion with him will be like one day and it was the most unbelievable thing I have ever witnessed or been apart of and only my step-dad and I will ever know exactly what that moment felt like. I will, without a doubt, treasure it for the rest of my life and long to experience that moment again when Christ returns or calls me home.

I 1000 times over recommend Simply Sarah to other brides who are looking for a photographer! I am continuously blown away by her work and she is absolutely amazing in every way. Not only is she unbelievably talented, but she and Will were so great to work with and we loved spending our destination wedding weekend with them. I know we will walk away from this season of life with incredible pictures to hold onto, and memories captured that we will cherish forever, but we are also walking away with two new lifelong friends. Sarah, we are beyond thankful for you and it was an absolute honor to have you a part of our journey. I truly can’t thank her enough!

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Photography: Elizabeth Lanier Photography | Event Planning: LP Events | Floral Design: Occasional Bloom | Wedding Dress: Anna Maier | Cake: Fairmont Chateau at Lake Louise | Stationery: Victoria Austin Designs | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Hair + Makeup: The Pretty Haus | Groom's Attire: The Black Tux | Wedding Venue: Fairmont Chateau at Lake Louise | Rentals: Red Events

Modern, Colorful Wedding 101

If you’re a bride whose style skews a little more modern or who likes a touch of color but still wants to achieve a romantic vibe for your special day, look no further for inspiration. At Jeremy Chou‘s latest workshop, he and Natalie Choi Events + Design pulled off that tricky combination, and we’ve got it all right here for you today. The key is the warm hued accents paired with the clean studio space, modern hanging floral installations, and sleek bridal beauty look. Together they perfect a modern, colorful, yet still romantic celebration.

From Natalie Choi Events + DesignDuring our first discussion about the concept behind Jeremy Chou’s one-day workshop in San Francisco, we both decided we wanted to depart from our norm and stretch ourselves creatively. For him, that was shooting a modern concept as opposed to the lush, romantic concepts of his past workshops. I decided to challenge myself by stepping away from the neutral color palettes typical of weddings and selected tones of burnt sienna, dusty blue, and pale gray. I envisioned the qualities of the bride who would get married in the design I was creating – bold, modern, and passionate. We incorporated elements of asymmetry, and chose elements with strong lines and sharp angles softened by lush textures.

Our styled shoot took place at a bright and airy loft studio in San Francisco and was brought together by the most amazing team of vendors that Jeremy and I had the pleasure of working with. Ashley of Wild Club Designs created not one, but two (!!) hanging installations for our shoot, which were designed in her signature organic, asymmetrical style. Her work featured dried elements used for the ceremony installations and transitioned into deeper and fuller colors for our dinner table. The rose gold and dusty blue silks sent by Tono and Co. added the perfect touches of soft, luxurious texture to our tablescape, which also featured Frances Lane’s modern tableware pieces and The Chiavari Guys’ acrylic chairs. Refine Studio’s modern paper goods designed with clean lines and negative space fit our modern inspiration perfectly, especially when styled with Susie Saltzman’s sparkling beauties placed in Secret Keeper Box’s unique octagonal velvet ring boxes and photographed on Simply Rooted’s textured styling surfaces. Christina from Makeup by Quis created a makeup look that balanced bold and neutral, paired with a sleek updo for our model who wore an Alexandra Grecco gown.

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Photography: Jeremy Chou Photography | Floral Design: Wild Club Design | Wedding Dress: "Lya Tulle Skirt" And "Esra Silk Cami" By Alexandra Grecco | Invitations: Refine Studio | Jewelry: Susie Saltzman | Hair + Makeup: Makeup By Quis | Chairs: The Chiavari Guys | Creative Direction: Natalie Choi Events | Film Lab: The Find Lab | Linen: BBJ La Tavola | Location: Lux-SF | Models: scout model and talent | Ring Box: Secret Keeper Box | Silk: Tono Co | Styling Surfaces: Simply Rooted Calligraphy | Tabletop Rentals: Frances Lane

Infusing Modern Charm Into a 1920’s Craftsman Kitchen

This kitchen masterminded by Jessica Nelson Design is bringing together the charm of craftsman style architecture with the modern beauty of quartz and brass finishes and a showstopping cement tile installation. All together it makes for a space that feels new and fresh but still gives off major cozy vibes.

 

What was your design inspiration?

My client loves white, marble and brass- we started there and added warmth and texture through cement tile and wood accents. The end product is a light and airy kitchen with a more functional flow. I was really inspired by the original details the home has as well, the leaded glass windows, crown moulding and custom tile transition pieces. The kitchen needed custom details to match.

Was there anything on the client’s wish list you prioritized?

The layout was the main priority- the original design cut the space in a way that made it feel cramped and dark. The previous cabinets were dark wood and the counters were concrete. The island was placed in a way that created a lot of wasted space. We ripped out everything and started fresh.

I redesigned the cabinet layout completely and flipped the island 180 degrees. The white cabinets brightened the room as did the marble-like quartz we selected. We added texture and warmth to the room with shiplap on the island, custom African Khaya shelves and lots of brass accents.

What is your favorite part of the kitchen?

The tile- it’s amazing. People have actually thought that it’s wallpaper! The pattern is Pescadero II by the Cement Tile Shop. It’s timeless and emulates the leaded glass in the original windows. 

Photography: Jessica Nelson | Cabinets: Cliq Studios | Cabinets : Cliq Studios | Designer : Jessica Nelson Design | Designer : Jessica Nelson Design | Faucet : Delta | Faucet : Delta | Flush mount : Schoolhouse Electric | Flushmount: Schoolhouse Electric | Hardware: Schoolhouse Electric | Hardware : Schoolhouse Electric | Paint : Benjamin Moore's Robbins Egg, High Gloss | Pendants: Shades of Light | Pendants: Shades of Light | Quartz : MSI quartz | Sconces: Cedar and Moss | Sconces : Cedar and Moss | Shelf brackets: Restoration Hardware | Shelf brackets: Restoration Hardware | Shelves: Crosscut hardwoods | Tile : Cement Tile Shop | Tile Backsplash : Cement Tile Shop | Wood for shelves: Crosscut hardwoods | quartz : MSI quartz | sink : Wayfair

Innovative Ways to Use Lucite in Your Chic Modern Wedding

A modern and stunning decor item, lucite has been popping up in wedding and home decor alike quite a bit lately. As a more durable option than glass and a minimalistic way to spruce up a space, lucite is a great addition to all decor!

Frankly, wedding industry terms can be hard to understand, especially when a variety of terms can be used interchangeably to describe the same thing. Enter lucite and acrylic. In simple terms, lucite is a high-grade acrylic material that is clear and durable. Think of it in the same way that Kleenex is used to describe tissues. Not all tissues are Kleenex, but all Kleenex are tissues. Some lower grade acrylics aren’t as clear and good quality, but the acrylic material that has come to be a staple in the wedding industry is high-grade lucite.

Woah, that’s a lot of shop talk! Basically, you’re more or less correct if you say lucite or acrylic. Most importantly, you’re definitely au courant and innovative if you choose to incorporate lucite elements into your wedding celebration!

From welcome displays to reception seating, the options are nearly endless for bringing in clear acrylic touches to modern, sophisticated, and chic weddings. We’re looking at a few of our favorite uses for lucite, but we can’t wait to see all the other innovative ways you chose to incorporate this trendy, and durable, material in your wedding plans!

Escort Display

When considering using lucite for an escort display, remember to make sure the background material will contrast strongly enough for guests to be able to read their names.

Signage

We love lucite signage, guest menus, and even lucite elements in Save the Dates and invitations!

Altar Structure

Whether you’re getting married on an urban rooftop or overlooking a picturesque golf course, an acrylic chuppah or altar structure has the added bonus of blending into the natural landscape and avoiding aesthetic competition with your ceremony backdrop. That’s a win-win in our book!

Serving Pieces

How stunning would welcome cocktails be on a chic lucite tray?

Seating

While this may be one of the most common ways to incorporate acrylic into your wedding decor, the look is certainly anything but pedestrian. Consider sprucing up standard ghost chairs by having custom decals or calligraphy done on the backs.

As the luxury chair rental industry continues to expand its inventory, we’re loving seeing opaque white and opaque black ghost chairs begin to pop up in the market as well!

We simply love how transcendent lucite is. It matches any color palette and works to elevate the surrounding decor while avoiding conflicts with the existing decor. Truly a gorgeous and versatile part of any wedding decor! So tell us, how are you planning to incorporate lucite into your wedding?

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Hannah Nowack is a freelance writer, calligrapher, and event designer living in the Midwest. When she isn’t working, you will find her decorating her Danish Modern-inspired apartment, frequenting the gourmet cheese counter, or enjoying a glass of Cabernet with friends.

A Fashionable Floral Infused Bridal Shoot That Has Us Swooning

We started out this morning with a classic Southern bride (albeit with a stylish twist) and this afternoon, we’re taking it to a whole other fashionable level. Elegance meets creativity with a one-of-a-kind look that we can’t get enough of. With East Made Event Company behind the reins once again, we’re head over heels for this eclectic, organic, uniquely romantic bridal look. Michael and Carina captured it all and between this morning’s pics and these ones here, we know where we’ll be all week long…

From Michael and Carina Photography

“Trees down south have a difference to them, a subtle, slinking movement, mile by mile–a gracefulness, a swagger. Lanky trees stretching out their wiry thin, Spanish moss-covered branches, moss that sways and beckons … Come here, come here, it says.”
― Suzanne Palmieri, The Witch of Belladonna Bay, 2014

A bridal portrait session in front of the backdrop of the lanky trees at RiverOaks in Charleston, South Carolina – let’s examine the movement and sway of the trees and their slinky moss in the wind and relay this grace to how our bride poses and moves during a solo session.

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Photography: Michael And Carina Photography | Floral Design: La Fleur Du Jour | Dress: Alexandra Grecco | Shoes: Bella Belle | Ring: Susie Saltzman | Hair + Makeup: Emily Artistry | Calligraphy: Maurelle Calligraphy | Creative Direction: East Made Event Company | Event Venue: RiverOaks Charleston | Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Hair Piece: BHLDN | Model: Carmen Thorpe

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This Wedding Proves Home is Where the Heart Is

You know what is the epitome of sweet? Building an entire wedding celebration around the idea of home. Crafted by Amorology, with florals by The Dainty Lion and images by Meiwen Wang, this seaside affair combines the beauty of alfresco dining with genius nods to Home, Sweet Home. Ahem brilliant backdrop, we’re looking at you. Oh and have you ever seen anything SO adorable as an uber chic audio guest book?! Just check it out, by the lovely FêteFone team, below.

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It is said that home is where the heart is and when Briana and Calum met they both knew they had found their home in each other. We loved this sweet sentiment and wanted to share it with their guests on their wedding day! Our darling couple’s relationship first began as one that was long-distance. The two got to know one another and ultimately fell in love through a series of late night phone calls and what our bride described as Calum’s ‘incredible’ letters, all of which she still has to this day. Finally, long distance no more – on their wedding day Briana and Calum wanted to recognize their loved ones as a part of helping to build their new life and home together.

Inspired by a more neutral palette, we chose colors such as soft greys, olive green, light blues, and warm beige with a touch of cranberry. Briana and Calum became Mr. and Mrs. in front of a small scale wood framed home we had Backup Back Drops build that was accented in greenery and delicate florals from The Dainty Lion Floral Co. as guests sat in wooden chairs overlooking the gorgeous California ocean. It was the prettiest little beach house we ever did see! During the cocktail hour guests sipped on a “mi casa es mule casa” (moscow mules) and a “call me old fashioned” and found themselves right at home in the lounge set against the top of the ocean cliff. In lieu of a traditional guest book they were also asked to pick up the FêteFone and leave a message for the couple. The guests had so much fun with this! These recordings were later saved and added to their wedding video! Such a special component of the day!

When it was time to get the reception started, we invited guests to “love thy neighbor” and find their names and seating assignments on glass houses with gold vinyl set upon our display backdrop. Each little house was filled with flora and greens. Tables were named after addresses Briana and Calum had lived at and the entire room was designed to create a sense of home for their reception. Wooden tables beautifully set with soft toned runners and rounds covered in deep moss velvet linens offered dimension to the space while small wooden dollhouse furniture pieces calligraphed with guests names served as place cards. Instead of champagne the couple opted to fill glass coupes with italian soda and give their guests a fun treat to toast to! A dessert table full of the couple’s favorites was offered to satisfy any sweet cravings. Briana and Calum sent their guests away with a special “home brew” blend of coffee that they could enjoy throughout the week as a little reminder of the taste of home! It was truly an evening of warmth and comfort to see all of the love and excitement Briana and Calum had for their future together. We can’t wait to watch their home continue to grow!

Photography: Meiwen Wang | Videography: David Orgill | Event design and Planning: Amorology | Floral Design: Kimberly Anderson, The Dainty Lion | Catering: Giuseppe Catering | Make Up and Hair: Make Up By KC | Calligraphy: Miss Multee | DJ: Hit It Music Productions | Audio Guestbook: FeteFone / The Audio Guest Book | Backdrop Installation: Backup Backdrops | Ceremony & Reception Venue: Scripps Seaside Forum | Dessert: Hey There, Cupcake! | Farm Tables & Chairs: Farm Tables And More | Graphic Design: Prim & Pixie | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Lounge Rentals: Folklore Vintage Rentals | Tabletop Rentals: Hostess Haven

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3 Benefits of Waking Up 30 Minutes Earlier than Usual

One of my goals this month: wake up 30 minutes earlier every day. My 11 month old who is going through teething is helping with that, except it’s more like 3 hours early… but really though, what would you do with an extra 30 minutes every day? Life Coach, Yana German is joining us today to inspire a bit of morning motivation with three benefits of rising before the usual alarm.

Gives you time for self-awareness.

Instead of rushing through the door and critiquing yourself, give yourself 5 minutes for Mirror self-love to feel more confident and comfortable. Start from staring into your own eyes, go up to your forehead, back to your eyes and to the rest of the body. This exercise will give out a signal to your brain to be fully aware of the body so you become fully present in your own skin and ready for the day.

Positivity.

Waking up just a little bit earlier reduces your stress level significantly. Instead of trying to figure out where your keys are or leaving home hungry, those 30 extra minutes can eliminate the feeling of being rushed. As a result this allows you to start your day on an optimistic and positive note.

Organization.

Most of us usually leave our house in chaos: you might forget to pack a lunch for your child, you did not have time for a cup of coffee, or perhaps you forgot the presentation you’ve been working on all night. Extra time in the morning allows you to organize your thoughts and set meaningful goals for the day ahead.

Life Coach: Yana German

Wedding Paper Timeline and Etiquette Every Bride Should Know

After becoming engaged, designing our save-the-dates and seeing our names together in print certainly made our wedding plans feel real. Personally speaking, creating our wedding paper suite has been one of the most special (and fun!) elements to our celebration.

As a new bride-to-be, I turned to expert Margaret Jones at Scriptura, who kindly guided my questions regarding wedding paper etiquette and timeline. Continue reading for a helpful Q&A session with Margaret covering common questions, like when to send save-the-dates and how to properly communicate the desired dress code.

Q: WHEN SHOULD WE MAIL SAVE THE DATE CARDS?
A: Save the dates are issued six months before the wedding. They inform family and friends of your plans and allow them to take your wedding into consideration when making their own plans. Save the dates are sent when out of town guests are invited and when the wedding will be taking place in a destination other than the bride or groom’s hometown. Many weddings are held in a resort area, and some guests might like to plan a vacation around your wedding. Save the dates may be sent to all guests, but it is especially important for out of town guests to receive them, as they will have to make travel arrangements.

Q: WHEN SHOULD WE MAIL WEDDING INVITATIONS?
A: Wedding invitations should be mailed six to eight weeks before the wedding; overseas invitations may be mailed twelve weeks in advance.

Q: WHERE DO WE INCLUDE INFORMATION ABOUT OUR WEDDING WEBSITE?
A: Wedding website information is most commonly included on the save the date. A small wedding website insert may also be included in the wedding invitation to ensure guests can access additional information about accommodations and weekend itinerary.

Q: CAN WE INCLUDE OUR REGISTRY INFORMATION ON OUR INVITATIONS OR SAVE-THE-DATES?
A: The best way to let guests know where you are registered is by word of mouth. Putting in writing where you are registered on the save the date or wedding invitation is considered to be in poor taste, as it suggests you are asking for a gift. The best place to include registry is on the wedding website.

Q: WE’RE HAVING AN ADULTS-ONLY WEDDING. HOW CAN WE COMMUNICATE THIS CLEARLY (AND POLITELY) TO OUR GUESTS?
A: The traditional method of letting guests know children are not invited is to leave their names off the inner envelope. For example, when “Mr. And Mrs. Phillips” is written on the inside envelope, it means that only Mr. And Mrs. Phillips are invited, not their children. When children are not invited to the wedding reception, the last line of the invitation may also state adult reception to follow instead of the more typical wording – reception to follow. The preferred solution is to talk to your family members and friends with children and let them know that, although you would really love to invite their children, circumstances prevent you from doing so.

Q: HOW DO WE INFORM GUESTS OF A DRESS CODE?
A: Dress code for most evening weddings is assumed to be cocktail attire unless otherwise specified. If the wedding attire is black tie, this is noted in the lower right-hand corner of the invitation. Outdoor weddings often specify garden attire, letting female guests know to wear flat or wedge heels, as walking on grass may be involved.

Q: WHEN SHOULD WE SET A DEADLINE FOR RSVP’S?
A: Reply cards are typically dated two to three weeks before the wedding.


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Photography: Aimée Mazzenga | Floral Design: Alicia Kiewitt | Stationery: Scriptura | Shoes: Christian Louboutin | Jewelry: Lester Lampert | Calligraphy: Calligraphy By Maria-Helena | Venue: Spiaggia Private Events | Agenda, Pen Holder: White Elephant Designs | Blouse: Astr | Pants: Nordstrom | Ribbon: Illume Silks | Wax Seals: Maurelle Calligraphy | Wax Seals: WaxSeals.com

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Laura Platt

This is EXACTLY How You Say “I Do” in Paradise

This forever winter has us dreaming of days spent lounging on warm beaches, soaking in the rays and sipping cocktails with our besties. A little bit like Sarah and Matthew’s amazing celebration at Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa. Along with 65 of their closest friends and family, this gorgeous duo ventured from North Carolina to party the night away in paradise (aka, the Caribbean), complete with a giant cut-out of their fur baby. Warm your hearts in the full gallery captured Punta Cana Photographer.

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From Punta Cana PhotographerSarah and Matthew decided to venture from North Carolina to get married at a gorgeous resort located on the pristine beaches of CapCana. Surrounded by 65 of their closest family and friends, they enjoyed every minute of the celebration.

The day started early for us, when we headed to Matthew’s room to enjoy the fun moments that were taking place at Matt’s hectic getting ready. With people running all over the place and the guys enjoying a few drinks, everything was set for a good day. Things simply got better when we saw Sarah’s happiness shining through her eyes before getting her dress on.

The location they picked couldn’t be any better for an intimate ceremony by the shore at Secrets CapCana. Minutes before the ceremony, Sarah’s dad almost made us cry with his tears, and a unique reaction that we love to see when a proud dad sees her daughter about to get married. It’s something we cannot explain with words.

Sarah & Matthew’s friends rocked the day with their smiles, inside jokes and their patience! Hey, it’s not easy to take pictures under the strong Caribbean sun, even in winter. At night, everybody took their shoes off and danced like there was no tomorrow. We hope you enjoy looking at the photos as much as we did while capturing them.


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Cinematography: Punta Cana Photographer | Wedding Dress: The Lily Rose | Makeup: Secrets CapCana | Photograpy: Punta Cana Photographer | Resort: Secrets CapCana

Stylish Southern Bridal Inspiration With A Twist

Leave it up to East Made Event Company to mix old and new to create something absolutely magical. And then leave it up to Michael and Carina to capture said magic oh so beautifully for our lucky, lucky eyes. Our classic Charleston bride shines bright with a full peony bouquet in hand, but add in her crop top two-piece wedding look and we’re taken aback by this stylish surprise… in all the best ways. See it all right this way! (And stay tuned… more Michael and Carina bridal beauty coming this afternoon…)

From Michael and Carina Photography

“Classic Traditions”

“I equate peonies with love because they’re the first blooms of summer.” ― Isaac Mizrahi

A bridal portrait session by the water at RiverOaks in Charleston, South Carolina – adding a modern twist to our Southern, classic bride, we drew inspiration from the juxtaposition of old and new by pairing traditional bridal elements like a long veil and all-peony statement bouquet with a modern crop top two-piece wedding gown.

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Photography: Michael And Carina Photography | Floral Design: La Fleur Du Jour | Dress: Alexandra Grecco | Shoes: Bella Belle | Ring: Susie Saltzman | Hair + Makeup: Emily Artistry | Calligraphy: Maurelle Calligraphy | Creative Direction: East Made Event Company | Event Venue: RiverOaks Charleston | Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Hair Pieces, Earrings, Bracelet + Veil: BHLDN | Model: Kristen Cook | Ribbon: East Coast Trimming

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They Wed Under the Stars + Surrounded by Art

For their wedding, this couple imagined themselves toasting champagne while dancing the night away under the stars, surrounded by beautiful works of art and the ones they loved most. With the expert assistance of Ivory and Vine Event Co., that’s exactly what they did at their Nasher Sculpture Center nuptials photographed by Stephanie Brazzle! No detail was overlooked by their world-class vendor team including Something Pretty Floral, La Tavola, Scribbles and Swirls Calligraphy, and more, and you can see all the lovely details in the film by Jonathan Mayfield.

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From Ivory and Vine Event Co.Ashley and Jonathan met in class at Texas Christian University, and after a year of flirting and friendship, they grew inseparable and knew that they’d end up together. After a few years of dating, they were engaged, and Ashley began planning their dream wedding day. They pictured themselves toasting champagne and dancing the night away with their families and friends, under the stars, surrounded by beautiful works of art – and that’s exactly what they did!

Ashley and Hono were married at Perkins Chapel with a wedding reception at Nasher Sculpture Center. Ashley envisioned a classic, southern wedding with just a touch of french country and used her color palette of ivory, blush, lavender, and gray to thread a common theme of timeless elegance through every element of her wedding. Ashley juxtaposed the modern, clean lines of the Nasher Sculpture Garden with wild, organic floral arrangements from Something Pretty Floral and accented her decor with silk ribbon, gold metallics, and textured linens from La Tavola. Her photographer, Stephanie Brazzle, captured each vignette through the medium of film and beautifully told the story of a night filled with excellent food, drink, and music. It was an unforgettable night under the stars.

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Photography: Stephanie Brazzle Photography | Cinematography: Jonathan Mayfield Media | Event Planning: Ivory & Vine Event Co. | Floral Design: Something Pretty Floral | Wedding Dress: Legends by Romona Keveza | Cake: Panini Bakery | Ceremony Venue: Perkins Chapel | Reception Venue: Nasher Sculpture Center | Bridesmaids' Dresses: BHLDN | Catering: Wolfgang Puck Catering | Hair + Makeup: Maitee Miles | Calligraphy: Scribbles And Swirls | DJ: Le Force Entertainment | Transportation: Dallas Limousine | Hotel: The Joule | Bridal Boutique: Arte Latica | Bridesmaids' Dresses Boutique: Brideside | Linen: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Fauxcades | Rentals : Marquee Event Rentals

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