Style Me Pretty: Wedding Blog for the Style-Obsessed Bride

Stylish Southern Clambake Welcome Dinner

Now that we’ve gotten to drool over their engagement session, we’re stepping into Katie and Ryan’s clambake dinner that welcomed guests to Charlottesville for an unforgettable weekend. Held the night before their big day, Katie and Ryan took the opportunity to mingle with their loved ones who traveled from the East and West coasts, and paid homage to their both their home states with playful design choices by Jacin Fitzgerald throughout. Take a stroll through the gallery by Ryan Ray and stayed tuned for their big wedding day reveal!

From the bride… Ryan is from California and I’m from Massachusetts, but it was important to us to get married someplace that held special meaning to both of us. Charlottesville was an easy choice for us to make. We fell in love with the town during our three years of law school there and knew our families and friends would also adore its incredible small town charm. We wanted to find a way to show our appreciation for everyone traveling such great distances to celebrate with us on our special day, so we decided to invite everyone to a Welcome Dinner the night before our wedding. We were so fortunate that so many of our family and friends decided to make long weekends out of our wedding, so much so that almost every single guest decided to come to our Welcome Dinner!

Ryan and I traveled throughout the French countryside in a special trip we took after taking the bar exam, and we absolutely fell (even more) in love with the country. We worked with Jacin to bring the same feelings and imagery from the French countryside into the décor at our wedding, and she absolutely hit the ball out of the park. For our Welcome Dinner, we wanted a much more relaxed atmosphere that felt more like “home” to us. Both being from the coasts, “home” for us involves amazing seafood, being with family and friends, and a beachy relaxed atmosphere. Those are always our favorite nights. We decided, therefore, to do our take on an East coast meets West coast clam bake for our Welcome Dinner. We wanted it to be a fun, relaxed time, just like clam bakes on the beach are. We asked everyone to dress “Nantucket casual”—and our guests really took this theme to heart, coming out in droves in Vineyard Vines and Lilly Pulitzer. Ryan and I also built and painted our own cornhole set to be used at our Welcome Dinner, which had a California side and a Massachusetts side, as an ode to our roots.

Ryan and I really wanted to make sure we had a chance to truly thank everyone for coming so far to celebrate with us, so we decided to write out individualized letters on custom vintage postcards to every guest, which were placed on each guest’s place setting. We worked with Chelsea Petaja to choose eight different vintage Cape Cod and San Francisco postcard images, which she then turned into custom postcards for us. We spent weeks writing out letters to each guest, and everyone seemed to really love them, which truly warmed our hearts. We knew we were going to have lush, overflowing flowers at our wedding, so we wanted the tablescapes at the Welcome Dinner to have a very different feel. Our escort cards were scallop shells that Chelsea wrote everyone’s name and table number on—we still have ours today! Jacin used beach grass, fishing nets, lanterns, driftwood, and classic red and white seersucker napkins on each table, truly making the table feel coastal. Every seat also had corn holders and mini Tabasco sauce bottles. String lights and lanterns lined the pathway down from the cocktail hour area to the tent for dinner, and a guitarist played during dinner, really setting the tone for our fun evening. We were absolutely blown away by all of the décor. Jacin truly did transform our venue into a beachy atmosphere!

Our signature jalapeno margarita cocktail was a huge hit, and it was amazing seeing everyone drink our favorite beers from each coast in our koozies. Our East coast station included clam chowder, mini lobster rolls, and corn on the cob. Our West coast station included different types of tacos (including fish) and classic San Francisco garlic fries. And of course, we had oysters and a raw bar, fitting in both coasts.

Our Welcome Dinner was such a blast! It was really special for us to be able to chat with all of our guests that evening, and then be able to truly enjoy dancing at our wedding without worrying about having missed anyone. We asked some of our best friends from different time periods in our lives to give little speeches (or roasts), which ended up being extremely special to us, and the whole night was an amazing way to kick off the fun weekend and welcome our guests to Charlottesville. It made everyone excited for the wedding, and was a night I will never forget.

The Seaside Views Are Stunning at This Backyard Celebration

There’s something about the fresh, ocean air and looking out to where the water meets the horizon that make a seaside wedding. This backyard celebration captured by Justine Yandle Photography drew inspiration from its perfect location, allowing guests to take in all the beautiful scenery with a tented reception, thanks to Sperry Tents. Chris McClain Productions filmed the festivities, so press play below to see the nautical elegance, from the elegant Bridesmaids in navy Joanna August gowns to the adorable pup in his polka dot bowtie.

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Summer Weddings

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Backyard

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Nautical

From Justine Yandle Photography… Kara and Pat planned the most perfect backyard wedding at the family home in Duxbury, Massachusetts. They combined classic, seaside elegance with some masculine touches. Melanie of Blissful Beginnings seamlessly incorporated the Groom’s love for hockey into the day. This wedding truly couldn’t have been more perfect.

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Flower Girls

Joanna August

Babes of the Nile

Ceremony

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Katie May

Bridal

La Vie en Rose

Katie May

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A Wedding in NOLA Is Always a Good Idea

The French Quarter of New Orleans was the perfect choice for this couple’s destination wedding – they wanted to say “I do” in an exuberant city! Marissa Lambert captured the celebration (on film and video!), which included a lively second line parade to kick off the joy-filled night. A team of incredible vendors including Sapphire Events, Poppy and Mint Floral Company, and Melissa’s Fine Pastries put together the classic, festive event, and you can see it all right here.

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From Sapphire Events… Lauren knew from the moment she had met Colin, she was going to marry him. The couple dreamed of a destination wedding located in an exuberant city full of fun and happiness – New Orleans was the answer. The ceremony and reception were held at The Chicory, located right outside the heart of the French Quarter.

The ceremony decor focused on deep burgundy, ivory, and gold accents. The altar arrangement consisted of one large wreath and two smaller wreaths made of grapevines by Poppy & Mint. These wreaths perfectly foreshadowed the nine hanging grapevine spheres created by Luminous Events that guests would admire at the reception. Throughout the reception, centerpieces alternated between gold candelabras accented with flowers and full flower arrangements accented with gold votives. The marriage between the floral and candle decor gave a lush and illuminating ambiance to the reception. Above the stunning wedding cake, made by Melissa’s Fine Pastries, hung glass bubble tea lights of various lengths (also seen above the buffet). The celebration went into the night as guests joined the Bride, Groom, and family on the dance floor until the very last moment.

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Wedding Dresses

Romona Keveza

Romona Keveza Luxe Bridal

Romona Keveza Luxe Bridal Fall 2016

Romona Keveza Bridal Fall 2017

Romona Keveza Collection Bridal Spring 2017

Romona Keveza Collection Bridal Fall 2019

ROMONA New York

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BHLDN

Bridal 2016

Bridal 2019

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Mixing Old with New in the Sweetest Vintage Inspired Nursery

For a mama who loves all things vintage, crafting a sweet nursery that incorporates a mix of old and new was a must. The result is a bright, happy space with pretty gold accents and the coolest retro moments. But the cutest thing of all? Sweet little Blythe and her collection of bonnets. Take the full tour snapped by Elza Photographie right here.

As a photographer who adores bright spaces, I totally fell in love with Blythe’s nursery. With these white walls, the wood and these cream and gold accents, it’s all warm and serene. I also love how the vintage furnitures and accessories give a romantic look to the room. Kelly, the mother, says she found her inspiration for baby Blythe’s room ”from my love of vintage and always wanting to mix the old with the new! I love a bright nursery (especially in the morning!), so I wanted to keep the walls and furniture light pulling all accent colors from the vintage Persian rug.

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Petit Bouquet

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Pretty French Blue Engagement Session in Nashville

Today isn’t an average Friday around SMP. Today is a pretty filled celebration of love with one special couple – Katie and Ryan – at the center. These two hired the dream team of Jacin Fitzgerald and Ryan Ray for their East-Meets-West-Coast Southern Wedding and we’re diving into all the events leading up to “I do.” First up – their darling engagement session set in Nashville. Get to know this sweet duo and sit tight for their clambake welcome dinner up next!

From the planner, Jacin Fitzgerald… Katie and Ryan were a match in wedding planner/client heaven. Katie is from Cape Cod and Ryan is from San Francisco and they planned to marry in the South. I’m from New England, lived in San Francisco, and had recently relocated to the South when Katie reached out to inquire about my availability. From our very first phone call, I knew these two were special and I couldn’t wait to work with them over their extended engagement.

From their New England meets San Francisco in the South “Clam Bake” welcome dinner to their French Country-inspired wedding day, a nod to travels taken in their favorite place, we wanted to work together to really weave their story through the details without getting too kitschy or cute.

Subtle details were included to really make all of their guests feel welcomed and appreciated while exuding Katie + Ryan’s personalities to a T. Ryan Ray perfectly captured everything from their engagement session to their wedding weekend and we are so excited to share these photos with you today.

Photography: Ryan Ray Photography | Wedding Planning: Jacin Fitzgerald Events

Here’s What To Eat On Your Wedding Day—Dietitian-Approved!

Wedding planning can be stressful and even exhausting, but no one wants to feel anything but blissful on the big day. Nutrition plays a large role in how you feel both physically and emotionally. On your wedding day, it is important to make the right food choices to help you last from morning makeup and blowouts, all the way through to the final dance. These tips will not only keep you looking your best, but will help you feel energized enough to truly enjoy the day.

Jordan Brittley

Keep Breakfast Simple but include Complex Carbohydrates

The morning of may seem like the perfect time to dive into a celebratory brunch, but instead, stick with something similar to your regular routine. Try to keep this meal as simple as possible, while still incorporating complex carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the brain’s preferred source of fuel, meaning without them, many people feel somewhat drained. Choose whole grains for sources of complex carbohydrates, like steel cut oatmeal or 100% whole grain toast. These fiber-rich grains take longer to digest, meaning you will feel fuller for longer, and therefore, less likely to have an energy crash later.

Round Out the Morning Meal with Protein and Healthy Fats

Keep breakfast as balanced as possible by including lean protein and healthy fats with your complex carb choice. Both protein and fat provide satiating nutrients, and also help control any spikes in blood sugar. This means, you will feel satisfied all morning long, with a steady level of energy. Lean proteins are easier to digest than high-fat varieties, so skip the bacon or sausage, opting for an egg or low-fat Greek yogurt instead. Stick with healthy fat sources like 1 TBSP of chia seeds or ground flaxseeds to provide anti-inflammatory omega-3s, too. Even easier? Choose a plant-based protein, like nuts, for a high protein and healthy fat combo in one. Try 1 TBSP of almond butter, or other nut butter, to stir into your oats or spread onto toast.

Ruth Eileen Photography

Use Caution with Caffeinated Beverage Choices

Caffeine is a morning must-have for many, but if flavored lattes, soda or juices are part of your routine, you may want to rethink your drink. The sugar in beverages adds up quickly, meaning these simple carbohydrates will leave you buzzing, followed by an energy crash. Instead, choose unsweetened coffee or tea with a milk of your choice, like a skim or almond milk latte with a sprinkle of cinnamon. You’ll still get the caffeine boost, just without the added sugars and probable crash later. In place of soda or juice, use still or sparkling water to quench your thirst. Staying hydrated helps avoid false hunger cues; plus, hydrated skin means an extra-glowy bridal complexion.

Abby Jiu Photography

Eat Small, Frequent Meals

One major energy zapper? Skipping meals. On your wedding day, mealtime may be the last thing you care to think about, but be sure to find time for fuel. Stick with small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day. Just as skipping a meal can drain your energy, overeating at meals causes similar issues. Consuming too much food at once can lead to discomfort or bloating, takes extra energy to digest, and ultimately leads to tiredness or fatigue. Instead, choose small, balanced meals and snacks. Ask a bridesmaid to stash easy, portable options, like fruit and nut bars, to avoid low energy levels and keep hunger pangs at bay.

Overall, incorporate these tips for healthful meals and snacks into your wedding day to take care of yourself and enjoy each special moment.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Amanda Baker Lemein, MS, RD, LDN, is a Registered Dietitian and freelance writer from Chicago. She works in private practice, helping both pediatric and adult clients find healthy lifestyles that work for a variety of nutrition needs.

Lord Byron Says It Best, “She Walks In Beauty”

Romance is at the center of this styled shoot crafted for the Michael and Carina workshop and it’s taking a page out of the English poetry book. Inspired by the words of Lord Byron, East Made Event Company along with La Fleur Du Jour and Emily Artistry dreamed up this photo shoot perfect for the lover of old world elegance. And with images by the experts themselves, Michael and Carina, the vault is a sea of artistry.

Our bridal portrait session was rooted in the authenticity of a real wedding day: with a period of preparation, portraits, a lovely tablescape for celebrating, and an evening gown that flowed with energy. We specifically took inspiration from English poetry of the early Romantic period: ‘She Walks in Beauty’ by Lord Byron and ‘She Was a Phantom of Delight’ by William Wadsworth. Each piece, from the rings by Susie Saltzman to the jewelry and headpieces by Liv Hart, was carefully selected to echo this idealized statement of grace found in these poems. We ended the bridal portrait session in a meadow as our bride and groom ran into the distance, embracing and happy, a vision of an ideal world.

Proof You Can Never Go Wrong with a Classic Sunset Beach Shoot

Golden hour on a deserted beach with Jose Villa and TEAM Hair and Makeup in tow is the stuff that photo shoot dreams are made of. It’s a simple recipe really. Take equal parts gorgeous couple and blushing sunset hues and you get one gloriously good looking vault of images with love that is palpable. See for yourself right here.

Photography : Jose Villa Photography | Hair and Makeup: TEAM Hair and Makeup

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Jose Villa Photography

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TEAM Hair and Makeup

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This Couple Stumbled Upon the Perfect Venue

When this couple went searching for a venue in Healdsburg, California for their spring nuptials, they stopped by Barndiva on a whim for a quick drink to fuel their search. It was then that they had an epiphany – this fun, laid back space was perfect for their vision! With the help of Soulflower Design Studio, they created a gorgeous fetê that balanced an organic, rustic feel with modern touches. Valorie Darling Photography captured the day, so head on over to the Vault for plenty more pretty.

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From the Bride… Healdsburg is a special place for my husband and me, so when we got engaged, we were pretty sure that was where wanted to “tie the knot.” We were looking for a rustic venue with an elegant feel, but we wanted something that wasn’t stuffy or fancy. We went to Healdsburg to look at different options and stopped to have a drink at Barndiva, which wasn’t on our list of venues. We both had this moment where we realized that we wanted to have the wedding there. We loved the indoor/outdoor aspect of the venue and the fact that guests would have multiple places to hang out after dinner was done. It was also a space that could easily be “dressed up” while still keeping a fun and laid-back vibe.

I’m a clothing designer (bridal robes for Doie Lounge), and my husband is an architect (OXB Studio), so we were both very involved in the design concept of our wedding. We both love neutrals, so we wanted to keep the color palette fairly subdued, so we chose gray and white and accented with blush and green. Our theme was “modern rustic,” and we incorporated succulents and airplants to give the space an organic feel. This all went really well with the long wood tables and modern barn venue.

We decided to have a first look because we wanted to take some photos at a nearby vineyard and barn. Part of me wanted to have that moment where he saw me for the first time when I was walking down the aisle, but it was so worth it for those photos! Plus, it was nice to have a private moment alone, when we first saw each other all dressed up. My white shoes were muddy by the time I walked down the aisle from tromping around in the vineyard before, but our favorite photos are from that pre-wedding shoot, so we have no regrets.

The only thing that threatened our day was the rain! With an outdoor wedding, we were watching the forecast closely, and it predicted rain for our big day. We did have a rain plan, but it really would have changed the entire feel and look of our wedding. Our planner was on it, and we re-worked our plan hourly the day of the wedding. We made the call around 2pm to have the wedding and reception outside. We were so lucky! The rain held off, and it only started to sprinkle as dessert was being served. At that point people were already moving inside to dance, and we had a small tented area outside as well.

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Wedding Dresses

Amy Kuschel

2014

2013

The PEACE & LOVE Collection 2015

DECO to DISCO Collection 2016

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You Can Never, Ever Have Too Many Flowers

My motto: You can never, EVER have too many flowers. There’s just something about beautiful florals that makes it impossible not to be happy, so when I saw this gorgeous bridal inspiration session captured by Jen Fariello Photography, I was in love. Southern Blooms by Pat’s Floral Designs created an abundance of spectacular floral arrangements, each one of them even better than the last. Take one look at that bouquet, and you’ll be swooning. This is one enchanting gallery to get lost in!

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Hushed Commotion

2014

2015

2016

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Get Swept Away by a Modern, Waterfront Wedding

We love a waterfront wedding, and even more so when it’s done by Brandy Maddison Event Planning and Design. Blush Wedding Photography and Joy Factory Films captured the modern elegance of the day, which reflected the hues of the ocean in the Bridesmaids’ dresses, the Groom’s suit, and in the silk, bouquet ribbon – all soft shades of gray and blue. It’s a whole lot of beautiful, so scroll on and press play to get swept away by this Vancouver wedding.

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Fall Weddings

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Yacht Club

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Brandy Maddison Event Planning and Design… On the dock of the UBC Boathouse in Richmond, British Columbia, Kyle and Rozalind said “I do” in a beautiful, fall ceremony, as the most gentle breeze came off the ocean. It made for a stunning backdrop, and as the bride’s veil blew perfectly in the wind, the whole world seemed to stop and stare. Rozalind looked breathtaking as she came down the aisle. Her dark hair tucked into a simple updo was a beautiful contrast to her classic, strapless dress; a vision in white. Rozalind had a vision for her flowers and wanted a big bouquet of subtle ivory and greens with light touches of navy blue to accent Kyle’s suit. Their vows were personal and their guests were overcome with an overwhelming sense of love and a little laughter, too.

For the reception, Rozalind changed her hair to a ballerina bun and traded in her veil for a timeless hair clip.
Inside, the reception hall was transformed with hundreds of lights strung in the rafters, gray linens on the tables, slate centerpieces with clusters of white candles, and an abundance of greenery. It was subdued and romantic, setting the mood for an intimate evening. After dinner and speeches, under the lights and surrounded by candles circling the dance floor, the couple shared a special moment before the night kicked off. Jesse from Common Sound in Kamloops came down to play the music for the wedding, and the couple had the dance floor packed until the wee hours of the morning. The bride’s glittering Jimmy Choo stilettos were the only thing left behind – a testament to the most amazing and fun night of their lives!

A Wedding Draped Head to Toe in Greenery

It’s no secret that greenery is making a major comeback, and this Texas wedding captured by Mustard Seed Photography embraces those fresh greens in a beautiful way. From ceremony to reception, you’ll find this organic floral alternative making its way into every detail, and we can’t get enough of the fresh, natural look. Have a look below and don’t miss the clip from Cakewalk Films.

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From the bride… If I’m being honest our entire wedding day is a blur to me now. I don’t remember what I ate, what I talked about with my bridesmaids as we got ready, or how many songs we danced to. What I will never forget is the amount of love that was evident on this day. Our families had been awaiting this day for a very long time since Isaac and I were high school sweethearts. I will always remember the moment I first saw Isaac standing at that alter and I knew that he had been placed in my life for that moment, for the two of us to become one.

Isaac and I met when we were two kids in elementary school we didn’t know it then but we would eventually fall in love. We became high school sweethearts and have been inseparable ever since. After many years of dating Isaac surprised me with a trip to Paris, France! I had no idea that I would be proposed to in front of the Eiffel Tower, but there Isaac was down on one knee asking if I would spend the rest of my life with him. The moment I had prayed for had finally arrived and I couldn’t say “yes” fast enough!

During the planning process we knew we wanted to be as close to Houston as possible since that’s where our love story began. I had always wanted to be married in a white barn so we did some research and found a white barn themed venue that was just being built. We immediately drove out to Montgomery, Texas to view the venue. When we toured the venue they had just began building it so all we saw was literally just a frame of the venue. As we stood inside the center of what was to be the reception space we looked at each other and knew this was it. We took a leap and booked the venue while it was being built. The venue wouldn’t be complete until two months before our wedding day. When we toured the completed Farmhouse a month before our wedding I couldn’t help but tear up. The venue was absolutely stunning on it’s own. We couldn’t get over how bright the venue was and the beautiful marble details. I knew I wanted to incorporate the marble details into the decorations for the wedding and the wedding cake.

We wanted to have mostly greenery throughout the wedding with pops of blush. Our florals from Jenna Lynn Events were absolutely breathtaking and the greenery flower crowns she made for us really gave the wedding an ethereal touch. At the family table, our florist created a stunning greenery garland and we added a special touch with laser cut wood names as the place cards. We added gold touches with the hammered gold silverware and the gold rimmed plates. Our gray table clothes that covered the majority of the tables were an organic material that brought an extra special touch to the reception space.

We incorporated a few DIY projects into our wedding and I’m so happy we did. I love looking back at the pictures of the DIY projects and knowing the love and dedication we put into creating each project. My father and Isaac worked together to build the table in the entrance of the ceremony space and the boxes that held the programs. We created a wood board filled with polaroids from over the years of our relationship. Lastly, we used terrariums on some of the tables and filled them with twinkle lights for stunning budget friendly centerpieces.

Our ceremony was held in the chapel behind the reception space of The Farmhouse. The altar was draped in greenery and had pops of blush florals. The aisle had two huge greenery garlands down each side. We wanted to keep our ceremony as traditional as possible except for our string trio, Third Floor Strings, that played the Game of Thrones theme song as our wedding party walked down the aisle! We decided not to do a first look because I’ve always loved seeing the reaction of the groom when he first sees the bride step into the chapel. Seeing Isaac’s face as he saw me walk down the aisle is a moment I will never forget. I thought he would be the one to cry but it was really me doing all the crying!

The most important thing about our wedding was to involve our daughter, Ava. She was with me the entire time I got ready with my bridesmaids and we danced the night away with her. She wore a dress very similar to my wedding dress with long sleeves and lace detailing.

Charlie Whiskey really created such a stunning calligraphy invitation which included a map of the venue. Paper and Pine Co-created our calligraphy welcome sign and various other signs that were scattered throughout the wedding.

For the bridesmaids’ dresses, we decided to go with a long, off the shoulder, blush gown from Vow To Be Chic. The gowns were paired with greenery floral crowns and custom made Kendra Scott earrings. Our florist created ethereal greenery bouquets for the bridesmaids.

One of my favorite moments was our father and daughter dance. My dad and I had prepared choreography to a music mash-up! We were so excited to surprise our guests and Isaac with our fun dance moves. Needless to say, Isaac loved it and even cried because he was so surprised! My dad and I have always been super goofy so doing this fun mash-up really showed our father and daughter relationship.

Everything was captured by the amazing Mustard Seed Team. They were amazing throughout the entire process. We’re so thankful to everyone for their love and support. Our wedding was a dream come true because of all the amazing vendors involved.

A Pop o’ Color Looks Down Right Dreamy in this Master Bath Redo

We are ALL ABOUT this master bathroom redo masterminded by Austin Bean Design Studio. It gives off a luxe, spa-like quality with the prettiest of upgrades. I swear that tub was just made for lounging in with a wine glass in hand. But on top of all that dream bathroom goodness is a pop o’ color in the form of a gorgeous vintage rug and show-stopping art. Take the full tour captured by Kacey Gilpin right here.

From Austin Bean Design Studio…The master bathroom before remodel was a very french country design, covered in wallpaper and with a heavy and non functional cabinetry layout. The bathroom felt dark and outdated. The client wanted the bathroom to be light and airy with pops of color. She wanted it to be functional for their family with young children- which most of the time means everyone is in there together. The floors are a laid in a herringbone pattern, made of limestone– with matching wall tile in the shower, floor and walls.

Bathroom Sources

Sconces: Visual Comfort | Mirrors: Mirror Image Home | Faucets and cabinet hardware: Restoration Hardware | Wall color: Benjamin Moore “White Dove” | Vanity Color: Benjamin Moore “Witching Hour”

Photography: Kacey Gilpin | Design: Austin Bean Design Studio

How to Survive All Those Opinions (+ Personalities) When Wedding Planning

We sat down to chat with an expert in planning weddings, Cristen Faherty of Cristen and Co.. She’s doling out some much needed advice on navigating the planning waters with so many personalities – and lots and lots of opinions being thrown your way. Getting ready to start planning your “I Dos”? Then this is a must read.

Photography: Love and Light Photographs

Plan of Attack

Before the planning begins and family members get involved, have a discussion with your fiancé to ensure you both are on the same page when it comes to troubleshooting issues that come up with family during the planning process. You should always have each other’s back and never become a divided front, because you’re each other’s future. You need to make decisions together that are good for the two of you – even if it means upsetting a family member because they want something specific for your wedding that you don’t.

Photography: Annamarie Swift Photography

Take It With a Grain of Salt

Take everything with a grain of salt and be willing to listen to others. Everyone has an idea of what a wedding should be, so your parents, close friends, and other family members might voice opinions and suggestions on what they think you should be doing during the planning process or for your wedding. Some of their suggestions might be great, and others you might cringe at, but remember it’s your wedding day. It is about you and your fiancé, and it is okay to do your own thing! Be up front and honest with them from the beginning, explaining that you will listen but you may not take all of their suggestions.

Photography: Kim Lyn

Dole Out Tasks

You know your family and their personalities better than anyone – give your parents or close friends that are in your bridal party certain planning tasks or projects to keep their mind off of everything else. That way, you can focus and make decisions on things you don’t want them involved in, and they can contribute meaningfully in a way suited to their strengths and interests. Ask them to help with the bridal shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner, or farewell brunch; those events alone will take a significant amount of time to plan. Or have them join in on the dress shopping experience or help you create the guest list. This will keep their minds busy so they won’t have as many strong opinions on what vendors you should be booking and what your wedding will look like.

Photography: Kim Lyn

Hire a Wedding Planner!

I always say, “I’m your wedding planner, friend, and therapist!” Wedding planners can act as a middle man when times get frustrating with family members, and we can discuss certain aspects of the wedding with the family to guide everyone to a compromise. We can give suggestions or ideas that will make everyone happy in the long run. And, honestly, most of the time when the couple has a wedding planner, family members and friends tend to stay out of the planning process more because they know the couple has hired an expert to handle all of the details.

Expert Advice: Cristen & Co.

Summer Season Honeymoons For The Bargain-Hunting Bride And Groom

Going on a honeymoon is a time for newlyweds to unwind after the “I do’s”, and start their marriage off with a bang. But, who says that it has to be an elaborate trip that breaks the bank? If you’re a tad money conscious (thanks, wedding planning) and booking a honeymoon in the summer months, use it to your advantage. Warm weather destinations often have lower prices and endless adventure possibilities. Start planning!

Leslee Mitchell

Anna-Maria Island, Florida
During the summer months, Florida is surprisingly more cost effective than during spring break! Anna Maria Island off the coast of Florida is particularly gorgeous. Find a beautiful, beachy Airbnb to stay in on the island. You’ll get the beautiful white sand beaches, adorable beach towns, and as much privacy as you want – without spending an arm and a leg for something like the Bahamas.

Road Trip
Taking a trip up the coast, through the mountains, or along the rugged terrain (wherever you may live) can be super fun. It’s a quick and cost-effective way to explore many places in such a short amount of time. Drive at your leisure and stop at any place that intrigues you two along the way. Take a Polaroid camera and document each day, and make a travel playlist to listen to while you drive. It might end up being the best trip you’ve ever taken. Bonus: the long drive allows you two to have intentional conversations and unwind mentally after the wedding.

Las Vegas
Did you know flights to Las Vegas can cost as little as $100 round trip? Crazy, right?! Once you arrive in Vegas, there’s so much to explore! Vegas is fun and upbeat but still has those quiet places that are perfect for your honeymoon mood. Get a couples massage, take beautiful hikes through the scenic mountains, and enjoy rooftop dinners with heart-emoji-worthy views. If your couple style is a bit wilder, enjoy all of the nightlife Vegas has to offer. There are countless shows, bars, casinos, and you can drink as much as you want without feeling guilty because, Vegas.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Mexico is perfect if you’re in the mood for a tropical vacation, without crazy tropical vacation prices. Puerto Vallarta, in particular, has beautiful resorts with swim-up bars, endless shoreline, and poolside service. Shop around for the resort that catches your eye and accommodates your honeymoon desires. You can often find resorts with both beach-front access and pools sprinkled throughout the property. Mojitos for two, coming right up!

Courtney Perkins Ryan

Caribbean Cruise
If you live near a U.S. port, cruises enable you to explore many tropical destinations in one beautiful and inexpensive trip. You’ll get to hop around different islands, while often paying less than you would if you went to just one island for your honeymoon. Cruises are often all inclusive, which can help you be more mindful of your spending and allow you to enjoy your time without counting dollars. Shop around for a summer cruise, and you’ll find discounts and promotions for many of them.

When you’re starting out your newlywed, (and newly-budgeted) lives, it can be hard to take off on an exotic honeymoon. However, you can still get a dream-worthy vacation without breaking the bank. Your sneaky weapon: honeymooning in the summer months. This keeps the cost low and gives you many options for that fun getaway you two need and deserve.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Kylie Thompson is a freelance writer, blogger and marketing professional from Grand Rapids Michigan, where she resides with her husband. When she isn’t working, you will find her exploring Grand Rapids’ newest culinary establishments with her husband, or traveling up and down Lake Michigan’s coast.

A Timeless Engagement Session Fit for Royalty

This engagement session is 100% princess status. The couple looked classic in a stunning, black gown and dapper suit at Chateau Cocomar, a stately mansion and gardens that make you feel like you’ve been transported to Europe. But what I love most about the timeless images by Marsais Photography is that they capture the joy of this glowing couple. See some of our favorites below, and then head to the gallery for the rest!

From Marsais Photography… An enchanting engagement session took place at the beautiful Chateau Cocomar in Houston. Samantha desired a fairytale dream for her engagement session, complete with formal attire, and her groom-to-be obliged. They both donned elegant black, and their beautiful love story unfolded in front of the camera. Playful, elegant, classic – three of my favorite things!

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Mother of Bride

Tadashi Shoji

Spring 2017 Mother of the Bride

Spring 2017 Bridal

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Romantic Wedding Built for Two in Paso Robles

Small, intimate celebrations are some of the most wildly romantic. There is just something magical about you, your love and a handful of your favorite people that really makes for a heartfelt day. And with Bash Please crafting the details, Catalina Neal creating the Fall infused blooms and Lacie Hansen behind the camera, this Paso Robles affair held at the HammerSky Vineyards and Inn is a gorgeous rendition of a wedding built for two

Colors

Seasons

Fall Weddings

Settings

Vineyard

Styles

Al Fresco Rustic

From Kim of Flutter Magazine… Everyone in this industry is always creating beautiful styled inspiration. So many top notch resources and talents come together to make these fantastical wedding setups that we see in magazines, on SMP and other blogs every day. If we’re going through all of the trouble to create the imagery, why not give it real meaning? We saw the #happilyeverelopement as an opportunity to help one amazing couple celebrate their love in a way they couldn’t have otherwise. We are always creating dreams. Why not make them someone’s reality? Celebrating Ellen and Jeremy with at Hammersky Vineyards with a incredible lineup of vendors was one of the most rewarding things we’ve ever done.

From the Bride… Hammersky is a hidden gem in Paso Robles. The grounds are just breathtaking and every last detail is perfectly designed. Stepping inside of the vineyard house you truly felt like you were at home and you never wanted to leave. We wanted for absolutely nothing while we were there. I think our favorite part was having the house full of our family and sitting outside on the two beautiful porch swings drinking wine, chatting, and laughing. If it sounds like a movie, believe me, I know it felt like one. Our group had a unanimous consensus about the food and drinks by Field to Table. It was, hands down, the best meal all eight of us have ever eaten! We all particularly loved the lamb lollipops as well as the pear and vanilla margaritas. After cocktail hour we made our way to the magnificent dining table overlooking the entire vineyard where we had the most exquisite six course meal. Every single course was divine and perfectly reflected the time of year and location. I think we will all especially be forever dreaming about the cauliflower bisque with chorizo and toasted croutons served in the cutest little copper pots, and the individual chicken pot pies in mini cast iron skillets, yum! Jeremy and I joke that it was love at second blurred sight for us. We met briefly in 2008 when Jeremy had perfect 20/20 vision. Fast forward one year and one very traumatic life experience later, Jeremy had been diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder called Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy or (LHON) that caused him to suddenly lose his central vision in both eyes leaving him legally blind. Initially, Jeremy thought he would drop out of college but ultimately decided to give it another shot. Thankfully for me, he did! Just nine months after Jeremy lost his vision, he and I happened to meet again at a school event. We struck up a conversation and I remember thinking ‘wow’ this guy is something special. After that we were pretty much inseparable.

5 Tasty Drinks that will Take Your Summer Parties to the Next Level

Summers are for entertaining, and if you plan on hosting some fun-filled backyard soirees, making sure you serve up the perfect mix of refreshing + tasty drinks is key. So today we’re teaming up with The Registry at Bloomingdale’s for a list of five drinks that most definitely need to find their way on to your menu. From yummy cocktails to smoothies for the kiddos, these cool treats are about to take your summer parties to the next level.

1. kate spade new york Patio Floral Blush Acrylic Glasses 2. Vitamix Professional Series 750 Copper Heritage Collection Blender 3. Caravan Hexagon Coaster, Set of 4 4. W&P Design 5″ Metal Straws, Set of 4 5. Nambé Gourmet Blend Bar Board with Knife 6. Georg Jensen Manhattan Ice Bucket & Tong 7. Mitchell Gold Bob Williams Beverly Bar Cart 8. kate spade new york Dot Cocktail Shaker 9. Ralph Lauren Preston Bar Tools, Black, Set of 3

5 Tasty Drinks that will Take Your Summer Parties to the Next Level

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5 Tasty Drinks that will Take Your Summer Parties to the Next Level

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Ready to tackle your summer get-togethers with drinks that will seriously WOW your guests? Then head to The Registry at Bloomingdale’s to talk to a talented Registry Consultant about all of the must-haves you’ll need to put together that fab drink menu, from mixers to beautiful glassware to cocktail napkins and everything in between. Not to mention their amazing perks + benefits, like a 10% Off Completion Offer, discounts on jewelry and attire, a Thank You Manager, a Registry Checklist AND their mobile Big Brown App. You’ll be impressing your guests and hostessing like a pro in no time at all.

A Fall Wedding With The Most Instagrammable Staircase Ever

Finding the right words to describe this wedding is tough because every last moment is what I like to call Instagrammable perfection. Starting with a floral-covered staircase to the candlelit ceremony, and the classic ballroom reception, only Kate Ignatowski’s photos can do it full justice. And in case you’re wondering how they ended such a perfect evening…Shake Shack saved the day.

From the bride… Our wedding was the most memorable, exciting, love-filled day of my life. I know it’s not unusual, but I was truly surprised and utterly disappointed when it was all over so quickly! My husband and I have commented that although we had an amazing honeymoon, we would have given it up in a second to be able to repeat our wedding day. There was something so surreal about having all our loved ones in one room celebrating the joy of our marriage.

My family and I are very, very close and always have been. Due to the recent passing of a few close family members within a short time, it has brought us even closer. When it came time to plan for the wedding, we did it together as a unit every step of the way. The wedding was a perfect reflection of the traits of my family – loving, emotional, stylish and fun. From the beginning, I knew I wanted to have a wedding close to my childhood home so I could have photos getting ready there. The only other requirement was ensuring the wedding didn’t feel stuffy, even if it was in a “traditional” ballroom, I wanted a loose, organic theme.

We chose to have the wedding during the fall, our favorite season. The weather is (usually) perfect, and the fall foliage only adds to the romance of the season. As I learned very quickly, not all things go according to plan and we were forced to deal with the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew causing our ceremony to be moved indoors at the eleventh hour. Despite the change, the ceremony was filled with dozens and dozens of candles and flowers, creating the most intimate makeshift chapel I had ever seen. It was breathtaking! Florals were integral to my vision of the reception and when I finally saw the ballroom, I had to have a moment to collect myself because it was better than my dreams could ever have imagined!

Our immediate family and our bridal party sat in tables framing the dance floor, allowing us to enjoy the company of our closest loved ones from every angle. The band, Pete Saunders Band of Hank Lane Music, was absolutely incredible and had our guests raving for weeks after the day. I am not exaggerating when I say they sang covers just as well if not better than the original artists. My husband and I spent a long time finding the perfect first dance song for us that closely describes our relationship. After pouring over the lyrics of too many songs to count, we chose “Stay with You” by John Legend. We met in 2009 during the tumultuous high school/college years. No one, much less the two of us, would believe we would end up together when we first started dating. But after going through so much together in a short period time, we quickly realized there was no one else for the other.

One of the highlights of the night came at the end of the reception when guests were ushered to the front of the clubhouse to find a fully loaded Shake Shack truck. After a night of tearing up the dance floor, there is nothing more satisfying than digging into a Shake Shack burger and fries. It was a very unconventional party favor, but so uniquely us!

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Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

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Written Word Calligraphy

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These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here

Bridesmaid Dresses

Jenny Yoo

Spring 2014 Maternity

2016 Bridesmaid Collection

2016 Bridal Collection

Spring 2017 Flower Girl Collection

Spring 2017 Bridal Collection

Spring 2017 "Jenny by Jenny Yoo" Collection

Spring 2017 Accessories Collection

Fall 2016 Separates Collection

Spring 2017 Lingerie Collection

Spring 2017 Separates Collection

Spring 2017 Bridesmaids Collection

Spring 2018 Bridal Collection

Spring 2018 "Jenny by Jenny Yoo" Collection

Spring 2018 Flower Girl Collection

Spring 2018 Bridesmaid Collection

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All Our Secret Garden Dreams Are Coming True

When this Bride chose Leach Botanical Garden for her Portland wedding, she knew she wanted to enhance the natural beauty of the venue. With the help of her team of amazing vendors, the organic florals, the romantic calligraphy, and the pretty reception look like they belong. Peruse the gallery of photos by Jenny Losee and be transported to this secret garden worthy wedding.

Colors

Settings

Garden Weddings

Styles

Romantic

From Jenny Losee Photography… Sara, being the artist she is, put so much detail into her wedding. The small touches added beauty to an already beautiful day. Visiting Leach Botanical Garden is like being transported into the middle of a green, Hawaiian island or Jurassic Park! It was truly an honor to work beside so many creative talented people.

From the Bride… We planned to spend the weekend camping on the beach in Pacific City, Oregon with my siblings. We hiked up a bluff to get a view of the sunset on the ocean. Once we reached the top, Justin asked if my brother would take a picture of the two of us. Then Justin reached in his sandy shoe to grab the ring and popped the question! We are very thankful to my photographer brother who captured it all!

My mom and I were bridal dress shopping, and before we even spoke to an associate, we saw a gorgeous dress that stood out amongst a sea of white and ivory. We both walked over to it and admired it. Before I knew it, I was trying it on and fell in love. I am, perhaps, the most indecisive person I know, so I did a bit more shopping around but couldn’t get the first dress out of my head; I just kept picturing myself in it. The dress was feminine and easy to wear – exactly what I was looking for!

My wedding flowers were incredible! I chose a very trusty florist with incredible talent. I gave up my control to let her design arrangements that had berries on the vine, herbs, mauve and blush touches, and greenery. The arrangements were whimsical, organic, lush, and sweet as could be. I wanted them to mimic a true garden, fruit and herbs and all!

I’m sure every Bride and Groom gets this feeling at some point in the day, but as we all sat down and began eating, I looked up and noticed all of our guests. I got choked up to the point of tears, as I couldn’t fathom that all of our favorite people were in the same spot. It was humbling and wonderful, and I thanked God. I also shared a special moment with my mom away from everyone as we exchanged our notes to each other – that moment still touches me. It was emotional and heartfelt; it calmed me and gave me comfort in a bittersweet way.

Remember that it’s your and your spouse’s day, but don’t forget that this is for your family and friends, too. Make yourself happy, but do keep in mind your spouse, parents, and everyone else who has done a lot to pitch in. On the day of your wedding, be in the moment always. Don’t overthink the next step or how it will all turn out. The Bride and Groom are ultimately the ones who set the mood, so be attentive and live out the best day of your life. From the minute you wake up on your wedding day, soak it all in. Be attentive to what’s going on around you, remember any last minute advice given to you, and receive all the kind compliments people pay you.