Feeling uninspired by the impersonal feel of the wedding venues they had researched, this couple decided to think outside the box and booked a home, sight unseen, using Airbnb for their upcoming nuptials, planned in just four months! With the help of Amy McLaughlin Lifestyles, they transformed the grounds into the warm and welcoming New England wedding they had always dreamed of, and the so sweet photos captured by Callisto + Co. of the beautiful bride in her bespoke Kathryn Conover dress on her special day are all waiting for you right here.

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This New England summer wedding was the perfect combination of romance, nature, and the kind of feel-good vibes that you get when you return to the town you grew up in and are greeted with open arms by family and friends whom you haven’t seen in ages, but it feels just like yesterday. This was the case for Kate and Chris, who are now both living in Manhattan’s Greenwich village. They were both born and raised in Massachusetts, just north of Boston, so it felt more meaningful to them that they marry somewhere close to “home”.

After doing a little preliminary research on wedding venues and being disappointed by their impersonal feel, the couple decided to think outside of the box and try Airbnb! It was online that they found the rental house which would double as their ceremony and reception site. They booked the property site unseen, and when they finally took a weekend trip to see it, they were initially a bit concerned with the “diamond in the rough”. Of course, nothing says outdoor wedding like visiting an outdoor venue in January! It was a bit depressing but their wedding planner, Amy McLaughlin, assured them that all would be absolutely beautiful when summer came around and she had worked her magic!

The bride wanted very simple and organic florals in pastel hues. She wanted the view and the topography to be the focal point. McLaughlin used tons of eucalyptus mixed with blush and white roses to adorn the ceremony arbor. Guests were given fans in case they became overheated at the ceremony. The couple’s dog Penny, a rescue dog, was one of the highlights of the day. She was the most well behaved little girl and had the demeanor of an adopted child who was just so grateful to have been chosen to love. The evening’s fare of choice was a bistro style selection of comfort foods including a sliders bar and flatbread station. To top it off, Kate and Chris chose a whoopie pie buffet over the traditional wedding cake –a huge hit with kids and adults alike!

Photography: Callisto & Co. | Event Planning + Design: Amy McLaughlin Lifestyles | Floral Design: Amy McLaughlin Lifestyles | Wedding Dress: Kathryn Conover | Catering: Timothy S. Hopkins Catering | DJ: Joe Carson | Officiant: Betsy Holtzinger | Rentals: Peak Event Services

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We can’t dive into this castle wedding without starting with the most gorgeous floral Lazaro gown that inspired the day. It’s watercolor pastel blooms are carried through every last detail planned by Lovely Day along with floral design by Ponk Rentals. If you are a lover of fresh garden blooms, insanely romantic details and a fairytale backdrop, then you’ll find a whole lot to love in Peter and Veronika’s imagery. It’s flora at every turn.

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From the Bride… One of the most emotional experiences of wedding planning is definitely choosing the right wedding dress. I was blessed to have my mother and sister with me to help me pick the perfect gown. I went dress shopping exactly one year before the big day in Los Angeles. I only went to two boutiques; the second one was JLM couture on Robertson Blvd. Los Angeles. I knew I wanted a fairytale garden wedding and when I saw the floral Lazaro gown I fell in love. It was everything I was looking for and I felt like a real princess. When I tried it on my mom put a necklace around my neck the same one she wore to her wedding with my father and we all knew that was the dress. It was perfect day.

Photography: Peter & Veronika | Videography: Rec Studio | Planner: Lovely Day | Floral Design: PONK Rentals | Wedding Dress: JLM Couture | Stationary: Mikina Dimunova | Make up: Veronika Vargova | Photography - Assistance: Floretally

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If you saw the wedding editorial this morning, you know just how beautiful the inspiration shoots coming out of the Donny Zavala Workshop are, and this honeymoon session captured by the photographer is no exception. Imagine all the sophistication of Jackie O. set against the splendor of the Malibu mountains – incredible, right? Styled by Joy Proctor Design, we predict this one is going to be on all the Pinterest boards.

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This honeymoon editorial styled and directed by Joy Proctor for the Donny Zavala Workshop exudes all forms of sophistication. Our couple was given minimal direction allowing them to naturally engage in conversation, creating imagery that is true and honest. In her stylish hat, shoes, and lovely sweater, she enjoys the company of her husband. He shares his love of photography with her, all while the attendees waited to capture real and genuine moments. A most lovely setting set high above the Malibu mountains – the fog lifted in serendipitous timing giving way to soft and delicate light for a perfect ending to this ultra chic editorial. This editorial was the perfect ending to what is to date the most memorable Donny Zavala Workshop. A huge thanks to the talented vendor group that came together to create these looks.

Event Design + Styling: Joy Proctor Design | Shoes: Bella Belle | Hair + Makeup: Symmetry Beauty by Nyrie | Venue: Malibu Rocky Oaks | Clothing: Xtabay Vintage Bridal Salon | Film Lab Sponsor: PhotoVision Prints | Film Workshop Sponsor: Fuji Film | Hat: Joy Proctor Design | Models: MSA Models | Workshop Host: Donny Zavala | Workshop Speaker: Wedding Sparrow

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The holidays are over (aka unofficial engagement season) and if you’re a recently engaged bride, the new year marks the start of wedding planning. Not everything from last year is on its way out, some of the past year’s trends are still holding strong.

What you can expect to see in 2018 can be boiled down to “dreamy, simple and romantic.” Think billowing fabrics, soft tones, big blooms and gold candles says event planner Liz Linkleter in International Wedding Trend Report. It’s less about over-the-top themed weddings and more about amplifying the love felt on the big day. The experts break down what’s worth incorporating into your nuptials (and don’t forget to always trust your gut to ensure you’re happy on your big day).

Long live the laid back bride

The beach vibe of the West Coast is carrying over in 2018. “Boho is not going anywhere anytime soon,” says Marley Majcher of Party Goddess. ” especially because a lot of celebs relate to the relaxed, casual vibe that permeates Hollywood.” Marley says we can expect to see the influence take form through the use of geodes and crystals in cakes, place cards and accessories.

More travel

The rising cost of weddings in the U.S. meant couples were jetting away to exotic locales in 2017, (where the exchange rate allows their dollar to go further) to say ‘I do.’ Last year, Mexico, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic were popular options says James Berglie of Be All Inclusive. And they’re still on track to be the hot spots in the upcoming year.

Keep it neutral

According to Lisa Anhaiser of LBL Event Rentals, soft blush and taupe tons (and a splash of gold) are still going strong for event decor. As are textured linens. “Manufacturers are expanding to include more offerings in blush,” says Lisa. It’s an indication the color isn’t disappearing anytime soon and part of that is due to its versatility. The color pairs well with the traditional white and black worn by most couples, but is also complementary to various shades of green, yellow and purple.

Simplicity rules

Even florals are keeping with the theme of understated elegance. “Brides are turning to organic, simple and elegant looks when it comes to their centerpieces,” says Nada Gokal of Vintage Bloom. Expect to see big, earthy blooms in neutral shades. And although many event designers are excited for a return to color with the announcement of Pantone’s 2018 color of the year (ultra violet), expect to see the 2017 color (greenery) carry over says Holly Patton Olsen of Perfectly Posh Events. “Hanging vine-like greenery in unexpected places adds a ‘WOW’ factor to event spaces and tents,” she adds.

“Decorating a ceremony arch with flowers and foliage will continue to be a popular trend,” reaffirms Kyla Helgeson of Tesselaar Flowers.

Whatever you decide to include or exclude, remember, your wedding day is to celebrate your love. Everything else is icing on the cake.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Ximena N. Larkin is a writer and publicist. She lives in Chicago with her husband and dog.

I love when photographers themselves get an opportunity to get in front of the camera. Let loose and let their smiles shine as another colleague, and oftentimes friend, captures them for a change. Add in a stunning location like the Santa Ynez Valley and it’s pretty much picture perfect. Wedding photographers Gabe + Brit decided to celebrate their anniversary with a shoot by Greg Finck and the results are nothing short of amazing. Get in on all the love and laughs right this way!

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From Greg Finck… Gabe and Brit are a couple of wedding photographers based in California (http://gabeandbrit.com). I had the honor of meeting them on a wedding photography conference last year, and that’s when Brit asked me if I would shoot their anniversary session in California. They are the sweetest family with their two kids, and they are both gorgeous, so it would be an easy job.

I took them to Figueroa Mountain, in the Santa Ynez Valley, which is hands down one of my favorite place on Earth to photograph. We were blessed with the most beautiful light, and I could just focus on the love that these two have for each other. I absolutely love the organic and muted colors here, with Brit’s dress popping out. This is undoubtedly one of my favorite portrait session from last year.

Photography: Greg Finck Photography

Take a tour of a once unused space transformed into the most magical nursery ever by Julie Savage Parekh of Strawberry Milk Events. Inspired by Swan Lake, it’s a spot where swans in tutus and Parisian dollhouses mingle and blush colored hues are at every turn. A.k.a. it’s pure magic snapped by Sarah Bradshaw.

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Step into an ethereal world of swans in tutu’s, pastel parisian villages and a heavenly cloud mural by Fornasetti. Julie Savage Parekh of Strawberry Milk Events transformed a small, unused space into the sweetest nursery for her little lady.

Photography: Sarah Bradshaw Photography | Chandelier: Pottery Barn Kids | Corner Chair: Custom | Crib: Restoration Hardware | Crib Bedding: Monique Lhuillier | Designed by: Strawberry Milk Events | Dollhouses: Gold, Frankinsense & Myrrh | Dolls: Pottery Barn Kids | Floor: Annie Sloan Chalk Paint | Mini Bow Chair: Petit Jolie | Shelving: Restoration Hardware | Swan Bust: Target | Swan Rocker: Pottery Barn Kids | Wallpaper: Fornasetti - Cole & Sons

To say we’re obsessed with this Musat Bridal wedding dress doesn’t cut it. It has all the sexy-Greek-goddess vibes with the plunging neckline and gorgeous draped back. And the jaw-dropping gown is just the start of this romantic, old-world style meets modern elements editorial designed and directed by none other than the incredible Joy Proctor and photographed by Donny Zavala. Run don’t walk to this gallery, loves.

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From Donny Zavala Photography… A most carefully and curated editorial perfectly styled by the amazing Joy Proctor. The details are in the dress, the plate settings, and location. This shoot was beyond my wildest dreams. Coming together with Joy Proctor and the amazing vendor group to create this look was a treat of a lifetime for our attendees. The images evoke sophistication and romance. We hope readers will see the ultra clean, ultra sophisticated look of this editorial through all of the elements that will remain timeless. May all those stylish couples know that their dreams are possible.

Photography: Donny Zavala | Wedding Dress: Musat Bridal | Stationery: The Idea Emporium | Shoes: Bella Belle | Makeup + Hair: Symmetry Beauty by Nyrie | Groom's Attire: Mr Tuxedo | Venue: Malibu Rocky Oaks | Design Assistant: Joy Proctor Design | Event Design + Direction: Joy Proctor Design | Film Workshop Sponsor: Fuji Film | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Models: MSA Models | Rentals + Tabletop: The Tent Merchant | Speaker: Wedding Sparrow | Workshop Film Lab Sponsor: PhotoVision Prints | Workshop Host: Donny Zavala

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The sun is shining, the water is crystal clear, you’re barefoot on the beach and it’s the happiest day of your life. If this isn’t paradise, I’m not sure what is. Julie Livingston captured this boho chic beach wedding and as we continue to push through Mother Nature’s rough winter, this gallery of island inspiration is giving us life – see it all right this way!

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From Julie Livingston… A filmy, dreamy boho chic Caribbean wedding on a tropical island.

Photography: Julie Livingston Photography | Floral Design: Blossom Artistry | Wedding Dress: Hayley Paige | Reception Venue: Leverick Bay Resort | Hair + Makeup: meraki beauty | Groom's Attire: Bonobos | Wedding Venue: Saba Rock Resort | Accomodations: Leverick Bay Resort | Bride Shoes: Handmade by bride | Film Processing: Richard Photo Lab | Paper Goods: Print Charleston

When you are planning a gorgeous outdoor wedding, waking up to torrential downpours can be a bit of a nightmare. Cue plan B which is so gorgeous, you would never guess it wasn’t in the works from the beginning. Rockstar vendors like A Charleston Bride and Blossoms Events have everything to do with this rainy day celebration going off without a hitch. From a custom pearl dress to the cutest puppy tribe we ever did see, there’s a whole lot to love in KT Merry’s beautiful imagery and film by Life in Rewind.

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A few fun facts…

• The couple first met at a house party (her friend dragged her out!) and they ended up talking all night until the sun came up.
• They always wanted a classic + romantic wedding with warm blush and gray tones.
• A Charleston Bride recruited Blossom Events to create some timeless one of a kind pieces and of course, beyond stunning floral.
• Taylor had a custom made pearl dress that just adds to the overall elegance of the wedding.
• Sadly, the day of the wedding, they had to move the wedding inside because of rain but lucky, the Blossom team made it ever more beautiful inside and no one knew the location had moved
• Check out the custom wall behind the cake – it’s a stunner!
• The night ended in a jaw dropping firework show

Photography: KT Merry Photography | Videography: Life In Rewind | Coordination: A Charleston Bride | Wedding Cake: Wedding Cakes by Jim Smeal | Officiant: Vance Polley | Wedding Venue: The River Course | Ceremony Musicians: Charleston Virtuosi | Decor: Blossoms Events | Lighting Rentals: Technical Event Company | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Linens: Nuage Designs | Reception Musicians: Jessie's Girls | Rentals: Snyder Event Rentals | Rentals: Eventworks | Rentals: Ooh! EventHaus | Welcome Bags: Southern Surcie

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Vienna is a great under the radar spot for travelers since there are so many easy routes to Europe from all the major East Coast hubs. Step into the cultural European getaway of Vienna, Austria with blogger J.Q. Louise.

Vienna is a city filled with culture and cafes. Fill your winter with art, history and fashion with a trip to this eastern European gem. From strolling through the Stephansplatz to exploring the Schönbrunn Palace, you will definitely have plenty of Instragrammable moments. And that combined with the ease of accessibility from the USA, makes Vienna an under the radar hotspot for 2018. Read on to find out why!

What to See

Vienna was home to Mozart, Beethoven and Sigmund Freud and as a result, this is one of the most sophisticated cities in Europe. For centuries, it was the seat of the Hapsburgs and they left behind plenty of gorgeous architecture for the rest of us to enjoy. Four places that any architecture lover just cannot miss while visiting Vienna are: the entire Stephansplatz area, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Schönbrunn Palace and the Albertina.

Stephansplatz is named after the St. Stephan’s Cathedral and is really the center of the historic part of Vienna. Take some time to stroll through this area and enjoy the architecture. There is also some great shopping nearby! St. Stephen’s Cathedral is a 700-year-old cathedral that Mozart was actually married in! The inside and outside of the building is filled with nooks and crannies of beauty! If you have time to take a guided tour, you’ll get to see more of its hidden treasures. But if you don’t have time for a tour, then just take your time to walk through the church on your own, it is open to the public on most days.

Schönbrunn Palace is one of the great European summertime palaces. Similar in scope to Versailles, Schönbrunn is located just outside the heart of Vienna. Even though I visited in the wintertime, its beauty is impressive. From the palace itself to the grounds, it is something you just have to see for yourself to fully appreciate.

Vienna is also a city for art and history lovers. Not lacking in the museum department, Vienna is full of culture everywhere you turn. If you only have time for one, you must visit the Albertina. Home to the “largest and most valuable graphical collection” in the world, the Albertina is also part of the Hapsburg Imperial Palace. And so not only do you get to visit a world class art museum, but you also get to tour a beautiful imperial palace.

Where to Eat

Vienna is a certainly a foodie city! Here are a few hotspots that are worth checking out!

Hotel Sacher – The original home to the Sacher Torte, this classic hotel is a must for afternoon tea. Labstelle – A trendy, modern eatery, Labstelle is perfect for a chic night out! Their cocktails are fantastic and the dishes are creative!

Café Bar Bloom – Located inside the Hotel Lamee, Café Bar Bloom is a perfect spot to take a break after shopping or touring the beautiful Stephansplatz area. Ra’mien – If you are looking for a quick, delicious meal, Ra’mien is the place to go. Serving up some delicious Asian cuisine, their curries and soups will certainly do the trick.

Vestibul – And for your last meal in Vienna, you just must go to Vestibul. Located inside the Burgtheater’s old entranceway, this restaurant is the best example of modern Viennese cuisine. And you just have to dine in their beautiful dining room, which used to be the royal entrance to the theater.

Where to Stay

Vienna is a world-class city and is filled with world-class hotels, both large and small. We were able to find a lovely hotel room at a trendy boutique hotel in the stylish Neubau area!

Hotel Ruby Marie – We stayed here on our visit and it was a lovely, funky, cool hotel in the artsy neighborhood of Neubau. The Guesthouse – Located right near the Albertina, this has been a recent favorite. Hotel Sacher Wien – As a mentioned above, this historic hotel is home to the Sacher Torte and is also in a prime location near all the major attractions. Do & Co – Offering views of the St. Stephen’s Cathedral, this is another luxurious hotel choice.

Getting There

Vienna is a great under the radar spot for travelers, especially from the Eastern USA this year due to the ease of access. There are so many great routes to Europe from all the major East Coast hubs. We got to Vienna seamlessly with British Airways — we traveled from Boston to London to Vienna and the whole trip was flawless. Aer Lingus and Lufthansa have similar quick 1-stop routes from Boston as well, connecting through Dublin and Munich respectively. And it’s possible to get a direct flight from Newark with Austrian Airlines. Vienna is so easy to get to, it definitely belongs on your list for 2018!

Including an adorable pup ups the ante for any photo shoot, but even more so when it is something as important as your engagement images. He or she is part of your family and having a few moments captured cuddled up together will give you an added touch of cuteness everyone will be awe-ing over.

While incorporating your furry love into your engagement session can seem like a lovely idea, it is important to keep these tips in mind to ensure your session goes smoothly.

Check With Your Shoot Location to Ensure They are Pet-friendly

While selecting an outdoor venue is an obvious first thought, sometimes the location, season, or the style you have in mind doesn’t fit the alfresco feel. If you are looking toward a more intimate shoot (maybe indoors with beautifully styled interiors or maybe where you had your first date such as a local coffee shop or lounge), reaching out to the venue ahead of time will help narrow it down for you and also help in visualizing the overall shoot. If your first shoot location turns you down upon this request, don’t get discouraged. There are several business owners who will love the idea of an adorable shoot featuring their business and will make arrangements to ensure it goes smoothly for all parties involved.

Be Upfront With Your Photographer

Next to ensuring your venue is pet-friendly, the most important aspect is talking to your photographer about having your pup included in your session. This is important because if you don’t know your photographer well, you may not know that he or she is allergic to pet hair or that they are uncomfortable shooting with an energetic subject such as a dog out of his element. If this is a deal breaker for you and your partner going into the process, make sure to be upfront about that when meeting your potential photographer.

Bring Along a Family Member or Friend to Assist

This one is a big one! The last thing you want is to have a potentially beautiful shot of you and your soon-to-be husband interrupted by a worried expression coaxed by an anxious pup. By having a familiar someone there to assist with the pup while you get portraits/couples shots taken will allow you to get the most out of your session and leave feeling like it was a great experience.

Pack the Essentials

By packing with your precious pup in mind for the time you will shooting, you are already a huge step closer to achieving a stress-free session. Having familiar items such as toys, chews, or a dog bed will relax your pup once you get into the groove of the session and will equate to more ideal images.

Keep in mind that every photo may not be perfect in the sense that he or she may be slightly distracted in a few images, but that is okay! Sometimes the cutest shots are the ones that are a little unplanned and showcase a true moment of life and its unpredictable moments.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Erica Chambers is a freelance writer and blogger at Styles by the C. After living in New York City, she has made her permanent residence along the white sandy beaches of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida with her husband and fur child, Maxwell. When she isn’t working, you’ll find her exploring local brunch spots or designing a nursery for her and her husband’s first child, Leo.

You know we’re never ones to turn down a bubbly-filled celebration, so when we were asked to co-host an evening in honor of the amazing L.K.Bennett x Jenny Packham collaboration, we literally jumped at the chance. Because there’s nothing better than spending a couple of hours with one of our fave designers, sipping drinks and taking in their first ever collection of stunning bridal shoes and bags.

Here’s something you never say no to: an evening dedicated to the Jenny Packham x L.K.Bennett collaboration. And on Friday, February 9th, we’ll be joining Jenny Packham herself (!!) from 6 to 8 pm to discuss all things bridal shoes and bags. Inspired by the golden age of cinema, this new collection is one part Old Hollywood glamour, one part vintage Parisian flair and all parts absolutely gorgeous. Which means you are going to adore each breathtaking creation, from the drop crystals highlighting the Dahlia sandal to the luxe lace and gold finishes on the Nora clutch.

Ready to join us for an exclusive Q&A with Jenny Packham, a personalized bridal makeup consultation from Joli Beauty Bar with Bobbi Brown cosmetics and the launch of the L.K.Bennett x Jenny Packham bridal collaboration? Visit here to register for your chance to attend and if you would like to be the first to hear about the collection when it launches, please click here. (All successful applicants will receive an email confirming your place on the guest list.) 

An amazing, eclectic setting and pops of radiant red; this is an autumn wedding not to be missed. And the icing on the cake? It all took place in one of our favorite Southern cities: Spanish moss-covered Savannah. Stacy Hart captured it all, from the getting ready festivities to the trolley smiles and kisses – see it all right this way in our gorgeous gallery!

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From Stacy Hart… Michelle and Jake were married at the charming SoHo South Cafe, nestled in the heart of Savannah, GA. Originally from the East Coast, these high school sweethearts honored Southern tradition in the details of their day. Guests were welcomed in with a whimsical guest book: Jenga pieces for everyone to sign! The ceremony was held in the cafe and the industrial vibes were perfectly complemented by soft, romantic blooms. Ivory & Beau, the event planner, created the most dreamy floral wreath and played up the bohemian feel by using mismatched chairs from the venue. Like every aspect of their day, the decorations were kept simple and set the mood for a relaxed evening. Michelle stunned in her two piece, Martina Liana gown and Jake kept his ensemble classic and understated with a navy Michael Kors suit. The pops of red in their bouquets paired perfectly with the neutral color palette; the bridesmaids carried this same sentiment in their mismatched, cafe-au-leit gowns. The girls got ready in a stunning Airbnb; an awesome alternative to brides and grooms not wanting a traditional hotel look.

During the evening, the bridal party rode to different locations on the best transportation in Savannah: a trolley! This totally captured the historic charm of the city. They rode under the Spanish moss and cobblestone streets while the ceremony space was transformed into a romantic seated reception. Each table held beautiful, ivory candles and fall inspired floral centerpieces with different textures of greenery! Michelle and Jake danced the night away in the soft candle light, celebrating their love with their closest friends and family!

From the Bride… My husband and I️ knew of each other since we were kids but didn’t really cross paths until we were nearing the end of high school. Whether he knew it or not, I️ had my eye on him way before then. The day he finally noticed me, was at a football game when I️ was awkwardly trying to dodge a kid I️ wanted nothing to do with. He saved me and asked if I wanted to go to the snack bar. We talked and laughed the rest of the night until we parted ways. After that night we exchanged numbers and shortly after, we went on our first date. Since that first date we have been inseparable.

With its history, night life, awesome food and beautiful Spanish moss streaming from every tree, we knew Savannah was the perfect place to do it! Picking Soho South Cafe as the venue was the easiest part. We knew we wanted something different from the average and after seeing all mismatch tables and chairs, decor, and eclectic bar area we knew it was just that. When thinking about the theme, we wanted both whimsical and romantic touches. We chose neutral colors, with taupe bridesmaids’ dresses, navy suits, and white and burgundy florals with greenery. We had matching farm tables and mismatching chairs. The tables had handmade arrangements in rose gold compotes with candle stick holders and mercury glass votives scattered throughout. Our hope was that our wedding would be more than just a day of celebration, but rather a weekend where all of our loved ones could make new friends, great memories and help Jake and I️ celebrate the best day of our lives!

Photography: Stacy Hart | Event Planning: Ivory and Beau | Floral Design: Ivory and Beau | Wedding Dress: Essense of Australia | Cake: Savannah Rum Runners | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Show Me Your Mumu | Hair + Makeup: Royal Makeup & Hair | DJ: Island Sound | Groom's Attire: Michael Kors | Groomsmen's Attire: Michael Kors | Officiant: Reverend Steve Schulte | Transportation: Old Savannah Tours | Wedding Venue: Soho South Cafe | Photography - Assistance: Megan Steele

Friends, this is not a styled shoot. I repeat, this is NOT a styled shoot. Ana and Stephen chose to elope at Kilchurn Castle in the picturesque Scottish Highlands, only bringing along Lilli Kad to photograph their intimate exchange of vows and celebratory dinner. And it’s all just so darn romantic, we might cry. We’re talking the frolicking through the castle ground in a gorgeous gown with a bouquet of wild-feeling blooms by Alice Beasley and a hand calligraphed stationery suite featuring their personalized vows that might as well be a work of art kind of beautiful. Trust us, this one cannot be missed.

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From Lilli Kad Photography… Destination elopements are becoming fast one of my favorite type of weddings, especially when you throw in a castle set in the Scottish Highlands! I can’t help but feel that this real elopement was the perfect mix of real and inspirational editorial. Ana and Stephen indulgently wanted to celebrate a very intimate elopement at Kilchurn Castle while staying at Ballimore Farm Estate in the Highlands in Scotland, where Stephen is from. They wanted to soak up nature while running free in the most amazing gowns creating unforgettable images celebrating their union. Due to the temperamental weather in Scotland and the remote location of the these little castle ruins, it was unrealistic to organize the wedding with family and friends at Kilchurn Castle, especially since they wanted to have an outdoor ceremony. So they did what a lot of people do these days – they created their dream elopement to celebrate their union in the most intimate way possible with some amazing vendors, whilst having a separate party somewhere easier for family and friends to celebrate as well. This way they can enjoy their union in a more relaxed way without the wedding schedule and then separately enjoy their friends and family in a less formal way.

They wanted to let the landscape run through the theme, and Alice Beasley obligingly created the most whimsical installation on a nearby tree for the ceremony. With the castle in the background, the entire ceremony had a very Celtic feel to it. With them creating their own vows, they got Jess at Boho Ink to create the most wonderful stationery suite, which is now rightfully hanging on their wall at home. Of course it rained halfway through the ceremony (it wouldn’t be Scotland if it was sunny all day), but that wasn’t really a problem. We embraced the weather, and it added to the atmosphere. The warm and cosy Ballimore Farm was the perfect venue after the rain – it wasn’t far from the castle but also set the perfect backdrop for a small little celebration with just the two of them, amazingly styled by Stacey at Colour Me Happy.

Photography: Lilli Kad Photography | Event Styling: Colour Me Happy | Floral Design: Alice Beasley | Wedding Dress: Katya Katya | Ceremony Venue: Kilchurn Castle | Reception Venue: Ballimore Farm Estate | Hair + Makeup: LeeAnne Fraser | Calligraphy: Bohemian Ink | Groom's Attire: Quality Kilts Edinburgh | Getting Ready Venue: Ballimore Farm Estate | Ring Box: The Mrs Box | Table Runners + Material: Feathers And Stone | Wedding Rings: Hamilton & Inches

As the saying goes… outer order leads to inner calm. But decluttering shouldn’t just be in our homes—especially when most of us spend a decent portion of our day on digital platforms. It’s much easier to avoid a cluttered email inbox than it is a sink full of dirty dishes, but that heavy inbox can weigh on you more than you know. Here’s a short list of ways to declutter your digital life this month!

Smart Phone + Tablet

Get rid of any apps you don’t use.

Delete any contacts you don’t need.

Delete old voicemails and texts that eat up space.

Delete unwanted photos or videos.

Organize your photos and sync across all devices.

Update your apps and software.

Email

Get to inbox zero.

Create labels to help organize your email categories.

Create a default out of office to use at a moments notice.

Unsubscribe with unroll.me

Get in the habit of deleting emails you don’t need right away or archiving them in labels.

Computer

Clean up your desktop files (did you know a full desktop can slow down your computer?!).

Deleted unused applications.

Social Media

Unfollow accounts you don’t have interest in anymore.

Update your profiles.

This couple hit the venue jackpot with a stunning family farm that is near and dear to their hearts.  It proved the perfect setting for their country meets New York City affair planned by Faith Ferguson and captured by Cadence Kennedy with assistant photography by Kayla Tiffany. Bucolic views, chic black and white details and a gorgeous tented reception can all be found in the gallery plus a film by Belinda Video Productions below.

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From the Photographer…This wedding was one of my favorites of the season. During my drive from Long Island to Warwick, I couldn’t wait to see what Bride Lauren had dreamt up. She brought a truly unique vision for her family farm wedding. Starting the day at houses just across the street from one another, both bride and groom were anticipated their first. The first look took place overlooking the farm, with portraits to follow amongst the rolling hills. Being a September wedding, I loved the subtle hints of fall amongst the tree tops. Chic accents of black and white graced the entrance to the ceremony, preparing guests for what was to come in the white tented reception. Guest sipped signature drinks from black and white striped straws during cocktail hour as they strolled through the hay barn with hanging lanterns. The celebration continued and guests dance the night away on top a black and white dance floor, under the stars. Looking back, Lauren and Mathew’s wedding was unforgettable, and the city had a chance to meet the farm.

From the Bride… Having our wedding at the most amazing location on the family farm was near to our hearts, but we wanted to also incorporate our love for New York City into the theme of the wedding. I had a vision of classic, clean lines and black and white that would really pop and be unique in a country setting. Everything was executed flawlessly and it was more beautiful and perfect than we could have ever imagined. Favorite moments/photographs of the day: We both surprised ourselves with how unbelievably comfortable we were in front of the camera and that is thanks to Cadence. We enjoyed every minute of taking photographs and you can see that through how amazing they came out. The photographs captured our love, our friendship and our happiness from our wedding day.

Photography: Cadence Kennedy Photography Collection | Videography: Belinda Video Productions | Event Planning: Faith Ferguson, Faith Ferguson Productions | Floral Design: Joe Richinelli Design | Wedding Dress: Sareh Nouri | Cake: Barbara Baxter | Invitations: Paperless Post | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Rings: Marianne Vanderwall | Bridesmaids' Dresses: BHLDN | Make Up: Krystal Bicknell At Main Street Cutters | Hair: Krystal Bicknell At Main Street Cutters | DJ: Steven Vittoria | Tux: The Black Tux | Cigar Roller: Tony Santana Cigar Rolling Co. | Headpiece: Kleinfeld Bridal | Photography - Assistance: Kayla Tiffany Photography | Veil: Pnina Tornai

In the past, brides often gravitated towards summer weddings, but according to Zola, the new popular season is fall! It is so popular, in fact, that Zola has gathered evidence that in 2018, 40 percent of all weddings will take place during the months of September and October!

This is the first year (ever!) that not one single top 10 wedding date doesn’t fall before August—with one exception: 8/8/18 is also popular due to the lucky number 8 being a go-to for brides and grooms to wed.

So does your date fall on the top 10? Below, Zola reveals the top 10 wedding dates for 2018 and the most popular months for 2018 weddings.

Top 10 Wedding Dates of 2018:

1. Saturday, 10/20/2018
2. Saturday, 8/18/2018
3. Saturday, 10/13/2018
4. Saturday, 9/29/2018
5. Sunday, 9/2/2018 (Labor Day weekend)
6. Saturday, 9/8/2018
7. Saturday, 9/22/2018
8. Saturday, 10/6/2018 (Columbus Day weekend)
9. Saturday, 9/15/2018
10. Saturday, 10/27/2018

Most popular months for weddings in 2018:

1. September: 18% of weddings
2. October: 14% of weddings
3. June: 14% of weddings
4. August: 10% of weddings
5. May & July (tie): 9% of weddings
6. November: 6% of weddings
7. April: 6% of weddings
8. December: 5% of weddings
9. March: 4% of weddings
10. January & February (tie): 2% of weddings

Your wedding date is important—it will be the day every year where you and your fiancé celebrate the best day of your lives and it will forever hold a special place in your heart. So how do you choose a date that is right for you?

Jennifer Spector, Zola’s Newlywed-at-large, says “The first thing to consider is a bride-to-be’s least favorite word: budget. Keep in mind that some dates are more expensive than others. A Saturday night reception will be more expensive than a Sunday afternoon or Friday night. Also, holiday weekends can be extra pricey and extra busy for your guests.”

Once you have your budget figured out, it’s time to set your priorities. Often, a venue you love may be booked on the date you had in mind. Ask yourself which one means more to you. “In my opinion, you’ll remember where you get married over which specific weekend you tie the knot,” says Spector. “So try to be open-minded.”

But, maybe most importantly, Spector notes that you should have an idea of the vibe of your wedding before you choose not only a venue, but also a date. “My wedding was on New Year’s Eve which dictated our black tie dress code and glamorous feel,” she says. “It was not the right date or location for a breezy beach theme. Usually, more formal weddings are in the colder months—stilettos and sand don’t mix.”

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.

When the gals get ready in the cutest Plum Pretty Sugar pajama sets and then emerge looking lovely in Jenny Yoo Collection gowns, and the bride dons a form-fitting lace Francesca Miranda number so perfect it could have been a bespoke creation, you know the wedding is going to be a pretty one. And Emily Wren Photography‘s pictures await you to prove it. Scroll on to see just how LJ Events outdid themselves at this affair that is heavy on two of our favorite things: whimsy and romance.

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From Emily Wren Photography… From the moment I arrived on site for Madeline and Mike’s wedding, the excitement was palpable. This vibrant and outgoing pair are a blast to be around, and their fun-loving personalities are truly infectious! The bridal party looked seriously stylish with the ladies in flowing, floor-length mauve dresses and the men in sharp black suits paired with ties to match the bridesmaids’ looks. But Madeline definitely stole the show in her fitted lace gown, which looked like it had been made for the gorgeous bride!

Janet Makcrancy Weddings and Parties created a spectacular ambiance for the couple with tons of draping, romantic lighting, and dramatic floral installations. The floating boxwood wreaths and spiraling globes filled with various types of greenery were especially lovely. Elegant geometric marble place cards and table numbers hand lettered by Ashley Wrenn of Hello, Bird expertly complemented the elevated aesthetic. It was a truly magical evening for two truly magical people!

From the bride… One thing that I knew for certain was that I wanted our wedding to be very romantic and whimsical. Our venue, The Inn at Barley Sheaf Farm, was romantic in and of itself, but I wanted that romantic vibe to carry through in all of our florals and decor as well as into the reception tent. I wanted our guests to feel as though they had been transported into a fairytale. I also wanted there to be a sense of softness and calm, and to me the soft palette that we chose helped bring that feeling to life.

Our day was nothing short of amazing. We had the most incredible team of vendors who made sure that everything was seamless and perfect. One of my favorite parts of the day was when my dad showed me the pocket watch my mom gave to him on their wedding day. It is inscribed with lyrics from the Van Morrison song “You’re my Woman” and says, “And it’s really real, the way I feel, it’s really real.”

Photography: Emily Wren Photography | Cinematography: Atomic Tangerine Film Co. | Event Planning: Lauren James Events | Floral Design: Janet Rosann Terman | Wedding Dress: Francesca Miranda | Ceremony Venue: Our Lady of Mount Carmel | Reception Venue: Inn At Barley Sheaf Farm | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Catering: Inn At Barley Sheaf Farm | Band: 39 Mariner | Illustration: Zoica Matei via Etsy | Paper + Calligraphy: Hello Bird | Robes: Plum Pretty Sugar

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Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

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From watercolor crest infused invitations by Kara Anne Paper to the most picture-perfect, sparkling exit, this Scottsdale celebration is all about romance in the desert. The gorgeous backdrop of the Four Seasons is paired with a soft, pastel color palette + elegant details designed by Imoni Events, and the most stunning florals by Carte Blanche Design. Pore over the magic captured by Daniel Kim and a film by East West all sitting pretty below.

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From Daniel Kim Photography… I was born and raised in the desert, and so I have a deep love for all things in this dry landscape. There are times when couples come in and they want lush and green backdrops in a desert landscape, something that is not readily available here. But when Anna and Michael came to the Sonoron Desert, she wanted to actually go out into the raw desert and take her bridals and group shots there, and that made me so happy. Even though there was a bit of wind that day, all the bridesmaids and groomsmen hung out, taking photos themselves out among the cactus and desert brush, and just having an overall good time. Everything came together so well, and I had a blast shooting all the beautiful moments and details from this wedding. 

From Kara Anne Paper… Designing all of the custom paper details with Anna and Michael was a dream! We started with the hand painted watercolor crest that was used throughout all of the paper details starting with the Save the Dates and then incorporated in the Formal Wedding Suites and Day-Of details such as koozies, cups, napkins, menus and other signage. Collaborating together was easy, as we both shared the same overall vision and love for soft pastels, whimsical calligraphy and floral/cactus illustrations. To keep Anna’s ideal vision of a chic, classic and romantic paper suite with a hint of modern elements we used gold foil and letterpress on a beautiful cotton, heavy weight paper. To tie in the venue and lovely Arizona landscape, a watercolor envelope liner was included as well as different shades of white, grey and light blue for the envelopes and insert cards.

As guests arrived for dinner, they were greeted with a personalized escort card with the bride and groom’s custom wax seal. On each place setting, was a full calligraphy style menu with touches of watercolor cactus paintings to compliment the formal wedding suite. For the final touch, silk ribbon was tied around each menu with the guests place cards written in gold calligraphy. All of these custom details combined with the gorgeous reception Imoni Events designed truly made Anna and Michael’s evening one that their friends and family will never forget!

From the Bride and Groom…Michael and I met in college at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. After 4 and half years together, we got engaged in Austin, TX at Mount Bonnell. It was during a weekend getaway that Michael surprised me with for my birthday that fall. He planned a photographer and picnic at the top of the mountain. It was the perfect adventure together and I felt so lucky he planned such a thoughtful weekend!

My family has a vacation home in Scottsdale that together we’ve spent a lot of time visiting over the years. When we started to plan our wedding day, we knew we wanted to plan a fun and intimate weekend for our closest family and friends in a destination we felt they would fall in love with! Some of our most fun and special memories are from the trips we’ve taken to Arizona. So, we couldn’t think of a more perfect place to bring together the most important people in our lives!

Post-wedding, it was so cool to hear how much fun our family and friends had making the weekend a vacation of their own and it meant so much to us that they had such a great time exploring a place that we love so much.

To kick off the weekend, we had our rehearsal dinner outdoor at the historic El Chorro. It was filled with margaritas, colorful flowers, bag toss and beautiful desert views! Our wedding day style was romantic and classic, while incorporating soft details and modern design elements. The Arizona landscape is so extremely beautiful and scenic; we wanted to keep our colors soft and neutral and let the desert speak for itself! We focused on lots of greenery, white flowers with hints of blush and neutrals. We also incorporated light grey and used gold to add a romantic feel.

From the way I wore my hair, to the activities we planned for our guests, we wanted to stay true to ourselves. We both are adventurous and laid back in our style so we wanted everything to be a reflection of that but taken up a notch for such a special day. Our focus for the wedding weekend was centered on experience and making sure everyone had a great time!

The day before the wedding, the guys went dune buggying in the desert… a risky pre-wedding move, but the exact type of thing that defines the way in which we love to experience life together! We also had our Welcome Party at Top Golf Scottsdale because we wanted everyone to let loose and feel comfortable together before the wedding day. Although our venue was up north in the mountains, we chose to have our hotel block in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale so our guests would have an endless amount of things to do without having to rent a car or pay for transportation. Through much of our planning, we put in mind our guests before ourselves because we were so thankful they were making the trip to Arizona, just for us!

Photography: Daniel Kim Photography | Videography: East West | Florals: Carte Blanche | Ceremony Venue: St. Patrick's Church | Reception Venue: Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North | Bridesmaids Dresses: Joanna August | Makeup Artist: Courtney Montes | Hair Stylist: Maggie Hancock | Calligraphy & Invitations: Kara Anne Paper | Lighting: Karma Event Lighting | Band: Sapphire Sky | Bridal Gown: Pallas Couture | Cigar Booth: Fumar Cigar | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Menu & Place Cards: Kara Anne Paper | Photobooth: The Hip Booth | Planner and Designer: Imoni Events | Rentals: PRIM, Glamour and Woods, Classic Event Party Rentals, and Event Rents | Watercolor Monogram Crest: Kara Anne Paper

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Petit Bouquet

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Foyer, entryway, mudroom… whatever you want to call it, this first (home) impression is getting a lot more attention lately and I’m loving it. It makes me a tad bit jealous that I don’t have one as beautifully designed as this one by Megan Bachmann, but you can bet I’ve pinned this gorgy space for a future mudroom makeover. Take a peek below for 5 tips on how to fancy up your entry!

1. Seating + Storage

The perfect solution to form and function when it comes to a foyer, entryway or mudroom—a builtin with seating and cubbies!

2. Cozy Details

Think throw pillows are for the living room and bedroom only? Think again. Plop some pretties on your entry seating for a quick refresh.

3. Wallpaper that Wows

Make a great first impression with a statement wall in a fun pattern—a welcoming pop every time you walk in the door and a lovely way to greet your guests.

4. Light it up!

Again, we’re all about making a first impression here and lighting is another thing to keep in mind. Instead of choosing a blah flush mount from your home improvement store, opt for a pendant with personality.

5. The Finishing Touches

Lastly, layer in some accessories, like a subtly scented candle, a small potted plant and a catchall dish for keys and mail. Welcome home!

Photography: Vivian Johnson Photography | Interior Design: Megan Bachman