What could be better than a wall covered in sugary confections? This adorable downtown Birmingham wedding planned by Becky’s Brides has found a permanent home in my doughnut-loving heart! Get right into the delicious gallery and film below, both by AL Weddings, who captured all the sweet details.

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From AL Weddings… This wedding is one for the books for sure! Let me just say floral circle. Doughnut wall. Peonies. It’s hard to described the joy that occurred the entire day on Saturday; however, it shows through so perfectly in these images. The laughter did not stop for a moment during the day, and if it did, it was most likely only because joy-filled tears flowing.

Chelsea and Phillip have some of the sweetest friends, and we loved spending the day with them. Each bridesmaid has been in Chelsea’s life for quite some time, and each did a wonderful job in filling a bridesmaid spot and being so supportive of her on the wedding day. One of her best friends cried at least three times (that I saw) due to one, how beautiful Chelsea is, and two, how extraordinarily happy she was for her best friend. This was basically the biggest reason for any tears throughout the day, and our biggest takeaway is that, wow, Chelsea and Phillip are loved a whole bunch!

These two have been together for 10+ years, so it’s hard not to be sentimental about their union. It’s been a long time coming and even longer in the making. We are completely overjoyed with having the chance to capture such precious memories for these two. We have enjoyed the journey, and the day of was a dream come true.

We talked about those peonies all day long – they are so amazingly perfect. They were also everywhere, which made me just as happy. Another thing that made me overjoyed and got me doing a happy dance was Chelsea’s dress. More specifically, the buttons on Chelsea’s dress – adorable! Love some buttons!

But my favorite thing about the wedding day was the sunset. It was perfect!

Photography: Al Weddings | Cinematography: Al Weddings | Event Planning: Becky's Brides | Floral Design: HOTHOUSE DESIGN STUDIO | Wedding Dress: Bridal Bliss | Cake: Cakes by Kim | Invitations: Minted | Rings: Diamonds Direct | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Bella Bridesmaid | Catering: Happy Catering Company | Hair and Makeup: Morgan Ashley Salon | Entertainment: On Site Productions | Groom's Attire: Men's Wearhouse | Ceremony and Reception Venue: Go Pro Event Solutions | Doughnuts: We Have Doughnuts | Getting Ready Venue: Hampton Inn Amelia Island | Linens: Go Pro Event Solutions

Sometimes, people seem to think that the bride plans the entire wedding and all the groom has to do is show up on the wedding day on time and in his suit rental. But while many brides may helm their wedding plans, I think it’s best when you work together to create a day that expresses yourselves as a couple. Here’s how to get your groom involved so he feels valued and you don’t go crazy!

Ask for his opinion

A groom may be hands-off because he simply thinks the bride wants him to be. Communicate clearly with your guy and tell him that you would love for him to be part of the crazy, fun, exciting, stressful journey that is wedding planning. After all, you do everything else together—why would this be any different? An easy way to ease him into wedding planning to ask his opinion on two different options, like chicken or beef. If you’re anything like me and sometimes have difficulty making decisions, his ability to “pull the trigger” on ivory versus candlelight will be a godsend!

Give him a task

Think of a wedding related to-do that suits your groom’s skillset. If he loves graphic design, maybe he can create a one-of-a-kind program. If he enjoys music, put him in charge of the reception playlist. If he excels at details and spatial reasoning, hand over that seating chart. We all excel at different things and that’s the beauty of being in a relationship: your strengths and weaknesses complement each other and together you are stronger.

Ask for his ideas

For all you know, there is a wedding planner lying dormant in your groom, just waiting to be activated! Okay, even if there isn’t, it’s important to make your partner feel valued, especially if you want them to be involved. And he may have some great ideas! When you’re getting started on wedding planning, ask him to explain what an ideal wedding day means to him. Of course, you may not implement his baseball and hot dog theme idea, but maybe you’ll get some unexpected, fun inspiration, like using baseball themed props from his favorite team in the photo booth.

Do the couple’s activities

Registering for gifts. Taste-testing the cake. Meeting with your caterer to figure out a custom cocktail. Look at these things as an excuse to spend time together! Sure, you might get them done faster if you do them on your own, but where’s the joy in that? These activities are great excuses to go on a “date” with your guy while getting wedding-related tasks done. Plus, you know he’ll love using that scan gun to zap products onto your registry!  

Include something at the wedding or reception just for him

You’ll probably have the final word on the wedding colors and style but keep your guy involved and included in the wedding plans by incorporating something special just for him. Have him pick out a fun groom’s cake (even if it’s video game-themed) or select a cool mode of transportation for his entrance. Maybe he’d love having his groomsmen to wear superhero shirts under their suits or perhaps he’d enjoy having a cigar rolling station at the wedding. Something just for him will make him feel loved and appreciated—and excited about the wedding plans.

Let the wedding planning process draw you two together instead of driving you apart. This special day really is about you and him as a couple and the beautiful life you are planning together. Once it’s all over, you and your guy may just find that you miss the process!

xoxo, Desiree

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Peek Back at Desiree’s Wedding!

These creative business owners – a professional photographer and cinematographer – had a unique vision for the overall style of their e-session, which took place one year (to the day!) after the proposal. The Bride-to-be strategically chose soft greens and neutral tones plus a modern floral arrangement, creating a cohesive style and color palette captured by Annamarie Akins Photography that will remain consistent from the engagement shoot all the way through the wedding. And to continue on with this very special date in their relationship, their wedding will take place exactly one year (again, to the day!) later.

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From Caroline Birgmann of POSH PR… What happens when Annamarie Akins Photography captures a modern yet city-chic engagement session in the heart of Richmond, Virginia?! Well, a lot of rule breaking (according to the couple!) and these absolutely stunning images!

It is no secret that Erika and Josh have an unbreakable bond. From their modern taste to their city-chic lifestyle, the couple found inspiration for their engagement shoot from their every day life together. As creative business owners, the dynamic duo find that their bond has strengthened over the past three years together. They are able to strengthen their connection on a deeper level while working hard as they continue to grow their photography and cinematography businesses side-by-side. Josh said that he loves the fact that he and Erika can easily relate to each other at the end of the day – they encourage each other to continuously set the bar high.

Living and working in a creative community, the couple find themselves in front of the camera as models on a frequent basis. That’s why they wanted to do something special for their engagement shoot that was completely their vision! They strategically chose locations that they felt represented their love story – their city’s capital building with the relaxed feel of the Richmond city streets, their favorite place to hang out, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts where their love of art inspires their creativity.

Not only is Erika a professional photographer, but she is also the visionary behind the overall style of their shoot! Soft greens and neutral creamy-whites define the romantic color palette for the soon-to-be Mr. And Mrs. From the beautiful blooms to the strategic wardrobe selections, Erika wanted to create a cohesive style and color palette from the engagement shoot all the way through their big day. Speaking of their big day, the couple decided to schedule their engagement shoot at exactly one year away from their Keswick Hall wedding in May 2018, and one year after Josh’s romantic proposal at Pippin Hill. How romantic!

Erika and Josh believe that breaking the rules is more than acceptable when it comes to an engagement photoshoot! “Don’t feel like you need to do what others are doing,” Erika said. “Be unique and just be yourself!” They found inspiration from what truly defines the couple at their core. Yes, this includes their fur baby, Lilo, named after their love of the Disney movie, “Lilo and Stitch”! We are so excited for you to take a peek into Erika and Josh’s love story! Isn’t this dreamy?!

Photography: Annamarie Akins Photography | Event Planning: Posh PR | Floral Design: Courtney Inghram Events | Hair: Avenue 42 | Groom: Joshua Bryan Cinema | Bride: Erika Falkenberg

Planning an Instagram-worthy international honeymoon is tempting for every couple. There seem to be endless beaches, villas, and private jets calling your name. But that’s not the only way to party like newlyweds.

For those looking for romance on a budget, the Western United States offers adventure, solitude, and unimaginable views to while away a long honeymoon weekend. The best part? You can have your cake and eat it too. Visiting these getaways is just a quick road trip or ferry ride away so you can explore without breaking the bank.

1. Crested Butte, CO

Nestled deep in the mountains completely surrounded by the wildlife of Gunnison National Forest is the cutest little ski resort you’ll ever see. Like walking through a Christmas card, every corner of the 500-acre town is filled with colorful storefronts, wild landscaping, and friendly people. This is your home away from home, especially if you love staying in bed and breakfasts and waking up to homemade scones.

2. Catalina Island, CA

It’s a gorgeous getaway that’s perfect year round. Booking your stay is simple and getting there is easy. You don’t even need a passport. Though Catalina is well-known among Californians, it’s never too crowded. Once you hop off the ferry, you and your love can roam sandy beaches, enjoy local restaurants and explore all around the island. If you’re up for zip-lining, scuba diving, and salty sunsets, Catalina is your new best friend.

3. Estes Park, CO

For the nature-loving duo, Estes Park has the same small town charm as Crested Butte at a fraction of the road trip. Just a short drive from the foothills of Boulder lands you among local wildlife and nature preserves. It’s an environmentally-friendly dream come true. Stay the weekend in the famed Stanley Hotel to soak in the first few sunrises of the rest of your marriage.

4. San Juan Island, WA

Tucked up in the northwest corner of the country, just past Seattle is a secluded oasis called San Juan Island. Known for its natural beauty, brilliant wildlife and kayak-friendly seas, San Juan Island is a safe haven for new lovers ready to ditch their cell phones and soak up some quality time. Everyday sightings here include orca whales, bald eagles, and friendly seals. Grab your fave swimsuit and some hiking boots to start the adventure of a lifetime.

5. Santa Fe, NM

A timeless city that still feels like the true Wild West, Santa Fe has everything you need for an art lover’s retreat. Spend a weekend marveling at museum exhibits, picking out hand-made goods for your new life together, and soaking in the warm mountain sun. After just a few days surrounded by the passion of the city, you can’t help but fall in love all over again.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Katy Palmer is a freelance writer and casting producer from Denver by way of Los Angeles. When she isn’t working you will find her volunteering at local film festivals, enjoying the Denver comedy scene and supporting other women in media. Connect with her on Instagram @bykatypalmer.

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Petit Bouquet

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Not only are Taylor and Anthony officially the cutest, but their Savannah engagement session? Well, it’s just the pretty we need to kick off this 4th of July celebration. Think crisp whites, historic charm, and a little dose of stars and stripes for good measure. Thanks to The Happy Bloom for these captures and an extra happy birthday to the U.S. of A.

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From The Happy Bloom... Taylor and Anthony chose historic (and beautiful!) Jones Street in Savannah for their engagement session. The street is filled with cobblestone, ivy walls, and so much Southern charm. We spent the early morning exploring and stopping at our favorite picturesque staircases and iron gates! We can’t wait for their September wedding where they will actually share OUR same anniversary. As we (Justin and Amanda of The Happy Bloom) share our 11 year anniversary, we will celebrate Taylor and Anthony’s first moments of wedding bliss!

Photography: Justin Leon Brown (formerly The Happy Bloom)

As an art history enthusiast, this photo shoot makes my heart beat a little faster. Drawing inspiration from Claude Monet’s “Springtime” painting, Nathalie Cheng and Blushing Joy Events teamed up to bring this lush, garden scene to life and I think it’s safe to say they hit the nail on the head. Join us for a gallery chock-full of images you’ll want on your pin board, stat!

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From Nathalie Cheng Photography… I teamed up with Jessica of Blushing Joy Events for this styled shoot. Our inspiration for this romantic, garden wedding started with Claude Monet’s “Springtime” painting. We were drawn to the romantic color palette and calm, delicate French scene of two friends enjoying the company of one another. This scene later bloomed into the idea of creating a colorful, yet tender and calm garden setting featuring a bride and groom on their wedding day.

The lush trees and rows of roses in bloom at The Gardens at Heather Farms created a beautiful springtime backdrop for our intimate ceremony and reception featuring a blue Tuscany linen, gold rimmed chargers, white dinner plates, blush goblets, and Chateau flatware. To further enhance our impressionistic garden vision, Sarah’s Garden Designs beautifully adorned the table with romantic pink and peach garden roses, tulips, and peonies and contrasted them with pearly anemones and spring greenery. The florals were accented with name cards by Sojourner Calligraphy to welcome guests to their seats. Instead of a traditional white dress for the bride, we opted for a muted dusty blue, lace gown that complimented the bright, colorful elements of the day.

We concluded the day by photographing the bride and groom in warm, golden light that filtered through the natural setting and lingered throughout the evening – long enough to enjoy a delicate and sweet Parisian treat by Just Bakecause!

Photography: Nathalie Cheng Photography | Event Design: Blushing Joy Events | Floral Design: Sarah's Garden | Dress: New York and Company | Stationery: Sojourner Calligraphy | Jewelry: Kendra Scott Jewelry | Venue: The Gardens At Heather Farm | Cake Stands: Julia's Cake Stand Rentals | Chairs: : The Chiavari Guys | Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Hair + Make-up: Bun Bun Bridal Lab | Macarons: Just Bake Cause | Models: Jennifer & Daniel | Ring Box: The Mrs Box | Tabletop Rentals: Pleasanton Rentals

It’s a shame we can’t all have professional photographers follow us around on our honeymoons. When you’re somewhere scenic, the pressure is on to make that moment look as beautiful on social media as it did in real life. Odds are, though, the most “professional” camera you own lives in your iPhone.

For all you honeymooners, bachelorette-partiers and general jet-setters, here’s how to edit professional-looking photos on-the-fly.

Frame the Shot
Keep it simple. Focus on one thing, and try to keep the background as clean as possible. Get creative with the crop tool to show people what you want them to see. iPhone cameras are surprisingly great for uncomplicated shots – and much more convenient to carry.

Even pros like Julie Paisley, who owns Julie Paisley Photography, occasionally go for the easier option. “I’m a professional photographer, but sometimes I just want to be in the moment and not have to worry about a big camera. I use my cell phone for family vacation pictures and even sneak peeks while I’m on my professional shoots. My couples love the little instant love.”

A post shared by Julie Paisley – Business Insta (@juliepaisleyphotography) on Apr 30, 2017 at 7:24pm PDT

Edit in Apps
This step is key for a professional-looking photo. Whether you’re looking to lighten and brighten, pop the colors, or whiten your teeth, there’s a myriad of photography apps to choose from. And you’ll probably want to use more than one to achieve the full effect of a beautiful, professional picture.

Start with Facetune. This popular app is ideal for fixing unwanted blemishes. You can smooth, whiten, and reshape your way to a retouched look. The patch tool is also great for removing anything distracting in the background (like a photobombing tourist).

A post shared by Facetune (@facetuneapp) on May 24, 2017 at 1:42pm PDT

Layer filters. After you’ve set your photo foundation, use filters to correct colors and set the mood you want. VSCO is most recommended by the pros – and it’s super easy to use. You can pick from dozens of preset filters or create your own. Whether you’re capturing a sunset at sea, a meal on a patio, or wildlife in their element, there’s a filter to give your image the quality you’re looking for. (Start with A6, C3, or C8 if you’re lost.) From there, you can tweak the filter and increase the exposure within the app. Increasing the exposure is a cheat to brighten your image, without professional lighting.

A post shared by VSCO (@vsco) on Apr 21, 2017 at 9:08am PDT

Julie uses Filmborn and PicTapGo. “These are both so easy to use. I usually don’t take my picture inside the app, I use the camera and then bring it into the app to edit.”

Post and Print
After editing, save your image to your phone and share away! Easy, right?

A post shared by Beyond Easy $8 Photo Books (@chatbooks) on May 3, 2017 at 4:15pm PDT

No matter where you are in the world, you’ll be able to snap, edit, and post beautiful photos in the palm of your hand. With so many frame-worthy options, you could even collect your travel pictures into a book (Julie recommends Chatbooks) to relive those moments when you’re back home on the couch. And just like that, you’re a published photographer.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Madeline Littrell is a Dallas-based writer and PR strategist. Born and raised in Tennessee, she loves big hair, country music, and chicken fingers.

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Petit Bouquet

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There’s no doubt that California boasts some of the prettiest wedding venues and views. But I think that Malibu Rocky Oaks gives all the others a run for their money. I mean, is this for real? Talk about prime spot for bridal portraits, and not to mention, the dinner views. Brian Saculles captured all the scenery (and sweet details!) of this day—take a peek at the full spread here in the gallery.

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From Brian Saculles… Its no secret that Malibu Rocky Oaks is one of the most beautiful locations in Southern California to tie the knot. When cruising through the curves and dips of the Malibu canyons, you wouldn’t even know its there hidden high upon the California mountains. This private estate boasts a helipad with breathtaking views overlooking the hills which is where Neal and Tiffany chose to make their vows. When the winds are gusting and you’re looking down on the windy roads and neighboring wineries, its like you’re all alone up in the sky. This feeling alone was a big factor when Neal and Tiffany chose this venue and location. What better place for this couple since Neal is an aviator, which all started on a date with Tiffany and a Groupon for flying lessons. Tiffany really put in a lot of thought into her wedding. She was the brainchild of the decor, styling, and concept. The mix of modern and rustic with cultural accents were classy and timeless, totally Tiffany’s style. Her dress hanging up with the sun piercing through the fabric deserved a photoshoot of its own. Mid century modern details were also scattered throughout. We really enjoyed our time getting to know Tiffany and Neal and at the end of the day, we were honored to see her ideas come to fruition and photograph them on their most special occasion.

Photography: Brian Saculles | Cinematography: Elysium Productions | Floral Design: The Poppy Studio | Wedding Dress: Hayley Paige | Wedding Cake: Porto's Bakery | Brides Shoes: Ted Baker | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Catering: RoomForty | DJ: Vox DJs | Groomsmen's Attire: Indochino | Venue: Malibu Rocky Oaks | Hair & Make Up: Sunny An | Planning and Coordination: The Elegant Ninja | Rentals: Town And Country

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Elysium Productions

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Jenny Yoo

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We have a blue crush on this bridal session, with its blue, gold, and white color palette inspired by the natural landscape and architecture of Santorini. Dreamed up by Jacqueline Hallgarth with the help of amazing vendors including Trynh Photography, Seniman Calligraphy, and Betty Flowers Santorini, it blends modern elements, like mid-century chairs and the clean lines of La Maltese Estate, with old-world touches including elegant glassware and romantic calligraphy on hand-dyed paper. Want more? Head to the gallery for all the unbelievably gorgeous images.

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From Jacqueline Hallgarth… Having a post card, picturesque wedding location is quintessential for every couple planning their nuptials. On top of the highest point on the island of Santorini, La Maltese Estate rises majestically above the village of Thira. We were so inspired by the sweeping views of the crisp, white architecture and blue dome churches. This is the ideal destination for a romantic setting and couples to say “I do.”

When partnering with Trynh Krajanowski of Trynh Photography, we wanted to showcase the rich history of the island while catering to the modern couple who dreams to wed here. The romantic wedding gown by Marianna Kastrinos (a Greek wedding dress designer) was the perfect attire for an island chic wedding. The top was form fitting with lace cap sleeves, and the bottom was flowing with layers of chiffon.

La Maltese Estate has a modern setting with their clean lines and newly renovated event space, but I wanted to highlight the island’s historic charm by blending in clay-like potted dishes and crystal clear glassware from White Lilac Rentals. Anything Ruth from Seniman Calligraphy touches turns to pure perfection, so we naturally wanted to feature her work. The timeless calligraphy on hand-dyed, cotton paper and silk runner from Tono + Co softened up the tablescape. Creative Candles matched the deep color of the Santorini blues. The gold edged cake by Alexandra Cakes was topped with a Grecian crown perfect for this affair. Vintage Rentals from Weddings & Whimsy accented the event design with their bar cart and adorable cake stand. As soon as the sun began to set, this was the ideal golden hour for beautiful photos. We finished off the evening with gorgeous sunset portraits with our Bride.

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Jacqueline Hallgarth Events

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I think we can all agree that grooms are not the easiest when it comes to wedding gifts. Another watch? Meh. A boudoir session? Now we’re talking. One look at this alluring sesh from Hello Blue Photo and I think you’ll agree. With beauty by Kacee Geoffroy Hair and Makeup, the Bride is glowing. So, break out the lingerie babes and get in front of that lens—let this gallery give you a little push.

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From Hello Blue Photo… When Rylee contacted me about booking a boudoir session as a surprise for her fiance, I knew it was going to be one of my favorite sessions this year. Rylee has incredible style, and is so easy to photograph. She has such a natural beauty, that is classic, but also evades that California-cool vibe that we would all kill for! When we did their engagement session last year, Rylee brought gorgeous florals from Julep Bloom Design, and wandered a natural succulent reserve wearing a free spirited white dress while her fiancé wore a tailored grey suit. The session couldn’t have been more perfect, and it was also featured on Style Me Pretty. So for her boudoir, we knew we wanted natural elements that kept with her bedroom vibe. So we brought her sheets from home, and had Julep Bloom Design style some ivy on the wall, and some florals for her bedside. We brought champagne and a charcuterie for nibbling in between. The girls at Styled By TC brought the most gorgeous boleros and accessories to keep it uber feminine, and the whole thing just turned out as good as ever. Rylee ordered an album as well to surprise Mike on their wedding day! We can’t wait for him to see it at their June wedding!

Photography: Hello Blue | Floral Design: Julep Bloom Design | Calligraphy: Graceline Art | Albums + Print Boxes: Heirloom Bindery | Beauty: Kacee Geoffroy Hair and Makeup | Bridal Shoes: Christian Louboutin | Bridal Styling + Accessories: Styled By Twos Company | Film Lab: Richard Photo Lab | Rentals: Out of the Dust Rentals | Ribbon: Tono Co | Studio: FD Studio

In keeping with the gorgeous rustic backdrop of Pippin Hill Farm, this pink hued wedding crafted by Amore Events by Cody pulled out all the stops for a cozy celebration. From  a gorgeous barn gussied up with classic blooms and candlelight to a a donut truck to finish off the evening in the sweetest of ways, have a look through photographs by Katie Stoops of a perfect Fall celebration, Virginia style.

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From the Bride… One of my favorite moments of the night were when my parents gave their speeches. Their marriage is something I’ve always looked up to so it was fun and heartfelt to see them do their speech together, make jokes, all the while giving my husband and I great advice. It will be a moment I will never forget. My other favorite moment was when my parents surprised my husband and I with a bagpiper that performed the Skye Boat Song. They know how much we love everything that has to do with Scotland.. I also may be slightly obsessed with the show “Outlander” on Starz. Another moment I’ll always remember is when I was about to walk down the aisle with my father and I remembered that someone had told me to take a second to take it all in, the sight of my husband smiling at me at the end of the aisle, the scenery, the family and friends who traveled near and far to be a part of our special day, everything. It was one of the happiest moments in my life.

Photography: Katie Stoops Photography | Event Design: Amore Events by Cody | Floral Design: Amore Events by Cody | Cake: Cakes By Rachel | Ceremony: Pippin Hill Farm | Reception: Pippin Hill Farm | Makeup: Avenue 42 | Hair: Brianna B Adams | Lighting: Blue Ridge AV & Lighting | Band: Erik Blue Band | Groom's Attire: Men's Wearhouse | Ceremony music: Plum Blossom String Quartet | Bridal gown: Laure De Sagazan | Cocktail music: Rafael Scarfullery | Donut truck: Carpe Donut | Photobooth: Photo Booth Of Charlottesville

Rebekah Emily Photography captured this cute and playful couple in downtown, historic Charleston, and each and every photo radiates charm and color. Between the Bride-to-be’s floral maxi, the adorable window boxes filled with pretty blooms, and the couple’s happy smiles, we’re in love with this engagement session.

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From Rebekah Emily Photography… John and Katie’s modern, playful style comes to life in their classic, downtown Charleston, South Carolina engagement session. Known for its balmy climate, colorful houses, and window boxes overflowing with blooms, Charleston makes the perfect choice for an engagement session or destination wedding – around every corner is a new bit of historic charm, even more wonderful than the last! A lush bouquet of greenery, garden roses, and ranunculus perfectly complements Katie’s floral maxi dress.

Photography: Rebekah Emily Photography | Floral Design: Rebekah Kemp

Whether you’re a creative type or new to crafting, we’ve all thought about going the DIY wedding route. What better way to personalize your special day and save a couple bucks while you’re at it, right?! Well, it’s not always that simple.

When it comes to your wedding decor, here are a few tips so you can love the DIY process and decide when it’s better to buy versus DIY.

Enlist the pros for key items.

If there are wedding items that are very important to you such as your bridal bouquet, call in the pros. This goes double for all things that will be prominent in your wedding photographs. Professional florists have plenty of experience creating picture-perfect bouquets and have a better shot at recreating your Pinterest board. If you go the do-it-yourself route, however, you’ll not only feel disappointed if it doesn’t meet your expectations but you’ll be stuck with the memory every time you look at your wedding album.

Make it personal

Want a wedding that has heartfelt, personalized touches sprinkled throughout the day? This is the perfect reason to do-it-yourself. Do you and your groom love creating your own herb-infused olive oils? Is there something that you both love to do together? By weaving personalized DIY touches throughout your wedding, you can tell the story of your relationship while creating lovely one-of-a-kind wedding favours for example.

If you can envision it, buy it.

So you saw a beautiful floral crown on Pinterest and now you can’t imagine anything better for your precious flower girl! What’s a girl to do?! If it’s reasonable to do so, make room for it in your budget. As a rule of thumb when it comes to DIY, the more flexible and open-minded you are the easier it is to go with the flow when issues arise. Say you’re not able to source the flowers you want or once you get started you realize you didn’t order enough flowers? Those are the last minute fumbles that can come up when you’re stressed and if you envisioned something specific, it might be harder to adapt.

Keep it fun!

The process of DIY can be a stressful one so why not throw a wine and craft night with your girls? Even if you’re the control-freak type, it’s a fact – everything is easier when you have help. Enjoy an evening laughing with your girls over DIY mishaps and you’ll have something better than a fancy floral centerpiece — you’ll have memories to last a lifetime.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Anusha is the DIY home and craft blogger behind the blog, Fish & Bull. With a background in drawing & painting, she blends the art of handcrafting with simple, colourful home decor.

It’s been more than 6 years since I was on my honeymoon. But I remember it as if it was yesterday. I remember the powdery sand and the crystal clear waters of the Maldives. I remember the incredible food — the pad thai and Turkish delight, in particular. And if I close my eyes, I can still feel the powerful sun beating down on my face and the salty smell of the Indian Ocean.

I also remember searching for luggage carts in tiny airports, waiting in a separate line to pay excess baggage fees, and nearly missing our flight. Honeymoons are special. They’re one of the most incredible trips you’ll ever take, whether you’re exploring Southeast Asia, relaxing on an exotic beach or eating your way through Italy. By planning ahead and packing smarter, you can truly relax and enjoy every moment of your trip — without agonizing over what to wear or experiencing the “I know I forgot something” feeling on your way to the airport.

Assign responsibilities 2 weeks before your departure

‘Divide and conquer’ is perhaps the best advice, when it comes to traveling with your spouse. In our home, my husband takes care of the laundry and dry cleaning while I make sure our toiletries are ordered and our luggage is in good condition. Well before your departure, sit down and decide who’s going to be responsible for what. It’s also a good time to make sure the last few honeymoon logistics (hotel transfers, money exchange, calling the credit card companies) are taken care of.

Write your packing lists – together

My honeymoon suitcase was filled with pretty dresses and a pair of high heels to wear to dinner. I didn’t wear any of them. My husband had packed casual clothing only, and a floral silk dress didn’t complement with the shorts/polo combination that filled his suitcase. Play some music, pour a glass of wine, and review your itinerary. Is there a special dinner one evening, or an early morning hike you have planned? Decide what you both need, and pre-plan your outfits to make sure they’re suitable – and stylish – for everything you have planned.

Stick to the accessory math rule

In order to maximize the space in your suitcase (for clothes and for souvenirs), limit the accessories you pack. For women, it’s 3 pairs of shoes, 2 bags, 1 hat, scarf, and sunglasses each. For men, it’s 2 pairs of shoes and 1 bag, sunglasses, and hat each. Don’t worry – flip flops don’t count as a pair of shoes. I know this rule is intimidating, but select these items BEFORE planning your outfits. By doing so, you end up selecting the items that are as functional as stylish. Nude or metallic sandals and heels go with virtually everything and elevate your look. A roomy leather tote will hold everything you need in flight and while exploring a new city. Cotton scarves can double as a sarong for the pool.

Pack your suitcase according to your timeline

By writing out your outfits for each day, you’ll know exactly what you’re wearing, and when you’re wearing it. Pack the items you’ll be wearing later in the trip first, so the items you’ll wear early are easy to find and grab (without unpacking your luggage entirely). This comes in handy if you’re visiting multiple destinations in a single trip, as it saves a ton of time in unpacking and repacking. That means more time to explore, relax on the beach, or enjoy one last delicious meal. More time to honeymoon!

Use your personal item wisely

It can seem tempting to throw the ‘just in case’ items in the tote or backpack you’re traveling with. You may need an extra book, or you could wear that hat you keep meaning to while traveling. Here’s the truth — you won’t get around to reading that book, and you may forget that hat in a hotel room. And you’ll (literally) be weighed down by all that excess stuff. Think about your actual trip – the various flights and trains, and the time you’ll be spending dragging your suitcase and carrying your bag. By packing only the items you need (your travel-sized toiletries, a tablet loaded with the latest season of Riverdale, a Mophie to recharge dead devices), you’re freeing up energy and space for the incredible trip you’re about to enjoy. Bonus – you’ll also have space to bring home souvenirs.

Hitha Palepu is an entrepreneur, author of How To Pack and founder of the blog HithaOnTheGo.com, where she shares smart solutions to help you live your best life. For more tips on packing perfectly, check out How To Pack and Hitha On The Go. Keep calm, and always carry on!

Whether her love language includes gifts or words of affirmation, choosing the right wedding day present for your bride-to-be should be personal and thoughtful. Think about your relationship and what you want her to know before walking down the aisle. Maybe you have something on your heart you want to share, or just want to make her smile.

From handwritten notes to luxury goods, these personal wedding day gift ideas will remind your bride how special she is and why you’re getting married.

Write a Handwritten Note

Expressing yourself in a letter or handwritten card for your new wife on the wedding day is one of the more popular forms of gift exchanges between nearly-newlyweds because it won’t break the bank and it’s straight from the heart. This is especially nice when you know you’re not sharing vows during the ceremony. Write a poem, song, or all the reasons why you fell in love with her. Does she love to read? Write it in the back of her favorite book. Like to journal? Write down a trait you love about her every day before the wedding and give it to her as a wedding day present.

Create a Video Message

We all know how popular wedding videos have become — from proposals to wedding days. Produce a personal video message for your wife-to-be describing your excitement for the wedding and your future together. It may include a slideshow or be short and sweet. Just make sure there’s enough time for a makeup touch-up after watching because there’s bound to be some happy tears. You can cut this video into the official wedding video later or cherish separately.

Surprise Her with a Family Heirloom

Welcome your new bride into the family by sharing something sentimental from generations passed. It could be jewelry from your great grandmother or a piece of artwork to decorate your new home together. Talk to your family about picking out the perfect gift.

Engrave a Watch (Or Other Personal Item)

Have a watch or other piece of fine jewelry engraved with a personal touch, such as new initials, the wedding or proposal date, or a sweet note. If it’s something she already owns, like her grandmother’s ring or watch, make sure to get permission first. On a budget? Monogram a luggage tag with her new name, or initials, for the honeymoon. She’ll love the thoughtfulness!

Pick Out New Lingerie

While it’s guaranteed that she’s already packed her favorite lingerie for the wedding night and honeymoon, a girl can never have too many lacy little things! Surprise her with something you picked out yourself (hint, hint) and let her know that you can’t wait to see her as your new bride.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Heather Hall is a freelance writer, content creator, and PR consultant splitting time between NYC & Fairhope, AL. When she isn’t planning an event or scouring trends on social media, you can find her practicing yoga by the beach, discovering new music, and enjoying time with her family and friends.

What’s your star style? Every sign has a different way to express their own special “look”. Do you prefer casual and low-key or bold and trendsetting? Read on to find out more about your signature cosmic fashion.

Naima Barcelona

Aries
As a fire sign, your style is bold and eye-catching. As a natural leader, you probably gravitate towards fashions that are cutting edge and outside the box. As long as you can wear it first, you’ll be happy knowing you wore it best. Try this form-fitting red dress.

Taurus
Your earth mama vibe likes soft sensual fabrics and a comfortable but sexy style. Your feminine side is important to you and this is reflected in your style, like this blush cold-shoulder top. Once you choose a look, you usually keep it for life.

Gemini
As the honorary flirt of the zodiac, your style reflect your character. You like a look that is, light, airy and adaptable. Reversible or multi-use styles are right up your alley, because they give you so many possibilities for expression. Grab a reversible leather-look-alike tote.

Alexandra Wolf

Cancer
As a sign with deep roots in the past, you are drawn to vintage styles evoke another time or an important memory. Romantic, nostalgic looks are also perfect for your dreamy sensitive nature, giving you a way to imaginatively express yourself through fashion. This stunning Havana-inspired dress will do the trick.

Leo
You’ve got serious fashion flair and know exactly how to express yourself. Your style is dramatic and luxurious with a little fiery passion thrown in to spice things up. Think movie star glamour meets foxy vixen in this sequin drape-back dress.

Virgo
Clean, pure and eco-chic are your go-to looks. Your style is all about form meeting function, you want to look good, but you want your look to “do good” as well, with sustainable fabrics and socially responsible business ethics. Grab these slouchy organic linen loungers.

Amy Emily

Libra
As the sign of beauty and balance, you approach style with an artist’s eye, creating a look that is pleasing and harmonious. You can be something of a trendsetter as you are always looking for new ways to express your innate sense of fashion. This oversized dress is perfect for a summer wedding.

Scorpio
You know how to make an art form out of basic black, incorporating it into many of your style choices. You dress for impact, wanting others to feel your power in subtle but intense ways. This off-the shoulder LBD is a statement-maker.

Sagittarius
Style is an adventure for you as you seek to incorporate many different cultural influences into your look. But you also want to be comfortable and travel ready, so your wardrobe choices have a fuss free quality that allows you to get up and when needed. This boho look is a must for you.

Danielle Moss

Capricorn
When you aren’t dressing to impress, you may have a uniform style outfit that is your go to look. You’d rather spend your time focused on your next important goal than fussing over what you are going to wear.

Aquarius
Your quirky style is centered on breaking all the fashion rules and making things up as you go along. You like to dress outside the box and may even incorporate a variety of tech elements into your look.

Pisces
You have a strong spiritual side which is an important influence in your style. Colors, fabrics and accessories that allow you to show your connection to the divine are key to your look. Start with this heavenly frock.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Fern Spring is an astrologer, wellness writer and owner of Wisestars Apothecary. She lives in Northern California with her dog and her guy in the beautiful West County of Sonoma.

Beach weddings can be beautifully serene and are often the perfect setting for coastline loving couples to tie the knot. However, it can be easy to get sucked into to the heavy theming these iconic shorelines offer up. Just because you are saying “I Do” at the beach doesn’t mean you have to do so barefoot with seashells in tow. Here are some simple tips for bringing serious style to your beachfront nuptials.

Opt For A Beach Goddess Vibe For Your Bridal Gown
While the bohemian trend is beautiful and seemingly always trend-right, you can bring added style and class to your waterfront wedding by choosing a bridal gown that is more beach goddess than boho babe. Flowy chiffon gowns are elegant and easily play off any breeze coming in from the sea. For a super stylish twist choose an off the shoulder style, which is both of-the-moment and relaxed, while still bringing a touch of sophistication.

Keep Your Feet Fancy
If beach chic is what you are after, resist the urge to dip those toes in the sand or slip into a flip flop. Reserve bare feet for the honeymoon and opt for a greek-inspired, ankle wrap sandal in white or a metallic for a little shimmer. A flat sandal is perfect for navigating the sand, yet ups your style game for the big day. For maximum beach chicness, ensure the groom and his men also air on the side of style with their footwear. Loafers are the perfect marriage of comfort and class and can be found in a variety of materials that are just right for the beach. A perforated leather is exceptionally beach-right and refined.

Choose Warm Tones and On-Trend Silhouettes For Your Ladies
Beach weddings and florals are not mutually exclusive and neither are waterfront ceremonies and the color blue. When it comes to your bridesmaids, choosing a rose gold or soft pink hue in a flowing silhouette with interesting details is beachfront perfection. A warm tone pops off the water and well-styled dresses or perfectly placed cutouts are the key to your ladies looking like they’ve mastered the art of stylish bridal party wear at the beach.

Leave The Tuxedo Behind, But Do Suit Up
If the bride can be stylish and classy, yet relaxed, the groom absolutely can be as well. While a tuxedo isn’t required to be dapper, nor is it necessarily beach friendly, khakis and untucked dress shirts sans the jacket give off the vibe that the man of the hour is already on island time. However, there is debonair middle ground to be found with a suit in a lightweight material, like linen. Choosing a well-tailored two-piece ensemble also leaves the option to pair with a tie or leave the formality behind for an unbuttoned, yet polished look.

Forgo Tropical Florals
There will be warm sun in the sky, waves crashing against the shore and sand at your feet, providing a natural atmosphere that can not be missed, which means your florals don’t have to be vibrant or tropical. In fact, bouquets based in white with subtle pops of pink and peach play well against the beach front color palette and are in keeping with your sleek and stylish vision.

Don’t Dive Head First Into An Over The Top Theme
The beach life is a very unique one, with definite themes and iconic pieces of nature, but remember- everyone already knows you are getting married on the water! Just like with the flowers, keep your decor simple and don’t dive headfirst into using starfish and seashells for centerpieces and place cards. If you want to incorporate your locale into your day, try less obvious nods like small palm leaves for name cards or work knotted rope into the decor. Otherwise, you can never go wrong by leaving the theme behind, keeping the decor sleek and simple and letting the unique and unforgettable natural atmosphere speak for itself.

The most important thing to remember when planning a beachfront wedding is to keep it simple in order to amp up the style! Let the beach speak for itself and don’t be afraid to dress to impress.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Katie Patton is merchant and freelance writer from Ohio, currently residing in Celebration, Florida with her fiancé. When she isn’t working you can find her sipping and snacking on a patio, traveling to see her friends and family, endlessly scrolling Instagram or Pinterest and, of course, planning her own upcoming wedding!

Everyone has a signature scent, but having a signature scent for your wedding is a decision you won’t regret. Spritz your wedding day perfume on for special occasions, and both you and your hubs will be instantly transported back to your big day. After all, scent is is the strongest sensation associated with memory. But which perfumes are the best of the best? See what your fellow brides said below!

Bridal Beauty Award Winners: Fragrance

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Bridal Beauty Award Winners: Fragrance

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The vision for this tented affair? Elevated backyard elegance. And boy, did TOAST Events deliver. Along with loose, organic florals by Amy Osaba Design, they brought an enchanted feel to Georgia’s Lake Burton and the couple, Bailey and Ben, perfectly looked the part. A Bryan Photo and Brandon Rice Films documented as the wedding weekend unfolded, and we’ve got all the festivities right at your fingertips.

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From TOAST Events… What’s better than being able to combine an intimate wedding with a festive party? Bailey and Ben created a whole weekend affair which began with a small tented wedding on Friday night for 85 guests, followed by a big lake party on Saturday night for 200 of their closest friends!

We love creating wedding weekends that are full of different events because each event allows the couple to celebrate even more with their friends and family while creating varied and unique settings in which to interact. The intimate wedding celebration on Friday had an elegant and organic feel.

Elevated backyard elegance was the overall mood we were going for with this classic tented wedding on Lake Burton. Every element, from the decor to the florals, had an upscale, yet approachable and relaxed, aesthetic.

We wanted to play on, and highlight, the natural beauty of the area. A color palette of neutrals browns, creams, and greens, accented by metallics, was the perfect complement to the natural backdrop of the lake. The rest of the decor was subtle, yet elegant, from the cafe lighting to the all white cake, adorned with flowers.

One of the fun and relaxed elements we loved were the hors d’oeuvres. The waitstaff passed items for guests to enjoy in antique trays. While it was a small detail, we loved that it created more character and charm to the overall feel of the evening.

All the floral elements were very loose and organic, yet had bright pops of color to draw in your eye. Since we were having so many events over the course of the weekend, one area that we used to bring a cohesive feel to the weekend was the floral design. Amy Osaba’s team did a great job bringing their bold, but loose, floral look to the flowers at each event over the course of the weekend.

One of our favorite floral elements was the greenery canopy inside Friday’s tent. It was a beautiful and cohesive way to connect the decor with the mountain surroundings. It was also a gorgeous way to highlight the head table and keep the focus on the bride and groom!

The lake party on Saturday was meant to feel a bit more fun and laid-back so we took a bolder approach to the Saturday color scheme.

One of the most heartwarming moments of the weekend was when Ben’s sister read a letter from Ben’s late mother to him during a toast at the wedding.

It was so special to be able to have double of everything over the course of the weekend. Bailey had two dresses, one more traditional and classic for Friday and a more bohemian look for Saturday. We got to play with two venue spaces and, as the pictures show, the views all weekend were to die for!

The stationery was one area where we were able to think outside the box and get creative since we needed to include details on all the weekend elements. All the stationery items were illustrated to portray to the beautiful scenery of Lake Burton while sharing pertinent weekend information with guests.

Photography: A Bryan Photo | Videography: Brandon Rice | Event Planning: TOAST | Florals: Amy Osaba | Wedding Dress: Marchesa | Cake: Sweet Caroline's Cakes | Stationery: Lovely Paper Things | Reception Venue: Farmhouse at Persimmon Creek | Catering: Epting Events | Lighting: Magnum Lighting | Transportation: Georgia Valet Services | Transportation: Daniel's Charters | Venue: Waterfall Country Club | Beauty: Claudia Mejerle | Drapery: Event Drapery | Rentals: Royal Restrooms | Rentals: Goodwin Events | Rentals: Southern Vintage | Second Dress: Stone Fox Bride | Welcome Gifts: From Sir With Love

From the dress to the venue, we know weddings can cost a pretty penny but they are totally worth it! In fact, 2016 was the year of the most expensive weddings in the U.S. according to a recent study by The Knot. The 10th Annual Real Weddings Survey just revealed that the national average amount spent on a wedding in 2016 was just over $35k! But where exactly are brides and grooms spending their money? Read below for more findings!

The Knot 2016 Real Weddings Survey

The average number of guests attending a wedding is 141 with an average cost per guest at $245.

Trends leading to high spending include but are not limited to total personalization and unique guest experiences.

Manhattan was the most expensive city to get married in.

The average amount spent on the wedding dress was $1,564.

Custom guest entertainment has tripled in the last few years. Photo booths, musical performances, games, and fireworks are at the top of the entertainment list.

22% of couples incorporated technology in their big day. From drone aerial footage of the ceremony to fully digital invitations, couples are finding ways to advance the wedding experience with technology.

47% of couple say they ended up spending more than they budgeted.

20% of couples considered their wedding a destination wedding.

Arkansas and Utah top the list as the most affordable locations to get married.