Cute coffee tables are a mainstay in a well designed living room. But if that table is naked or, worse yet, strewn with confused bits and bobbles it can put a major damper on the whole space. Christine Andrew of Hello Fashion is coming to the rescue with 5 must haves for a well executed tabletop. And if her newly revamped living room made gorgeous at the hands of High Fashion Home is any indication, she knows just what she’s talking about.

The 5 Things Every Coffee Table Needs

Your living room is arguably the space in your home that will say the most about you to guests and visitors and the center piece of every living room is your coffee table – so make sure you know what it says about you! I’m excited to share my living room redesigned in partnership with High Fashion Home and share 5 things every coffee table should have.

Something to read

101 of coffee table decor is something to read. Think books that are easy and entertaining to flip through. Books are also great as a design element to bring in patterns and textures or as a base to stack and layer with other pieces. Don’t forget to check under book covers – sometimes hardcover books are even cuter underneath!

Something for all ages

Every coffee table should have something fun as an option to keep your guests occupied and entertained. I love this brass tic-tac-toe set that is just as much fun for a 5 year old as a 50 year old.

Something personal

The personal touches are the ones that really make a house a home, and a coffee table is a great place to bring those elements. Whether it’s a book that means something to you, postcards from your recent adventures, or pieces from a collection, guests will love getting a glimpse of something personal.

Something floral

Every room needs a vase full or flowers or a pretty plant to bring some life into the space. Investing in faux flowers is a great move, especially when it comes to the coffee table! A quality faux floral arrangement will look real and also save you money in the long run, plus they are a lot less maintenance than fresh flowers.

Something scented

I am such a sucker for candles! They can add a lot of texture and interest to a space who doesn’t love a good scent to add some ambience to the room?

Living Room Sources

White chair | Sculpture | Books | Florals | Candle | Coffee Table | Couch | Vase | Art | Rug | Pillow

Photography: Lindsay Salazar | Design and Styling: Christine Andrew | Decor: High Fashion Home

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Petit Bouquet

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This wedding is all about blending East Coast and West Coast in the prettiest of ways with a couple that has roots in New England and a home in San Francisco. They hosted all their favorite people for a celebration made gorgeous at the hands of Ruby & Rose, along with florals by Amanda Vidmar and imagery by Anna Delores Photography. Peek at the whole beautiful affair along with a film by Kindred Weddings below!

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From the planner… Lindsay and Curt were clear on their wedding day goals from the beginning: a traditional Catholic ceremony, followed by a black-tie bash that was as elegant as it was playful and fun, which is not an easy balance to strike! Upon entering the courtyard at cocktail hour, guests were greeted with Caribbean-style steel drum music, an oyster bar, and free-flowing champagne. Following dinner, the festivities continued with more live music, and eschewing the traditional wedding cake, guests were treated to a giant wall of donuts and three different kinds of boozy milkshakes. In designing the reception space at the Flood Mansion, we drew on Lindsay’s love of antiques and Deco style (influences from her childhood in New England) as natural sources of inspiration. To highlight the opulent, classical style of the architectural elements and details at the Flood, we used a warm, neutral color palette of white, ivory, gold, and dark wood, with shades of blue as an accent color. Amanda Vidmar of Amanda Vidmar Design created lush, elegant, textural floral pieces in whites and greens, which complemented and softened the space. We were all especially smitten with Lindsay’s bridal bouquet, which featured garden roses, Lily of the Valley, hydrangea (another nod to East Coast roots), tulips, and jasmine vine, tied together with trailing blue and white velvet ribbon.

Photography: Emily Loeppke Photography | Videography: Kindred Weddings | Wedding Planning + Design: Ruby & Rose | Floral Design: Amanda Vidmar | Wedding Dress: Matthew Christopher | Invitations: Bella Figura | Ceremony Venue: Saint Ignatius Church | Reception Venue: James Leary Flood Mansion | Catering: Global Gourmet Catering | Hair & Makeup: Dreamcatcher Artistry | Calligraphy: Rachel Carl | Band: Lucky Devils Band | Transportation: Classic Cable Car Charters | Desserts: Dynamo Donuts | Hors d’oeuvres: Hog Island Oyster Company | Jeweler: Nick Engel & Co | Lighting & Draping: Impact Lighting & Production | Musicians: Steel Jam | Rentals: Standard Party Rentals

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Lucky Devils Band

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You’ve made it! The Big Day is TOMORROW and all those months of planning and decision making have paid off. It’s time to kick back and relax before you say I Do to the love of your life. But before you do, here are 8 things to keep in mind the evening before your wedding.

Set Aside Time for Just You Two

Weddings usually involve lots of family and friends and if you’re planning a rehearsal dinner the night before, it’s easy to find yourself chatting away with everyone else BUT your love. Set aside some time to go for a walk or watch the sunset and have a moment to soak it all in, together.

Shine Up that Sparkler

That gem is the star of the show my friends and you’ll have everyone grabbing your hand tomorrow to get a close up look at it. Make sure it give it a good polishing before the Big Day!

Break Tradition and Sleep in the Same Bed

My hubs and I tossed several well-known traditions out the door like the garter/bouquet toss, the dollar dance and sleeping in separate rooms. Of course, this is such a personal decision! But we opted not to because we wanted our wedding day to start like any other and there was nothing sweeter than rolling over to say good morning on the day we said I do. I say ditch this tradition the night before the wedding if you want!

Use Rehearsal Dinner Time Wisely

The wedding day itself will be a happy whirlwind of moments to soak in, but try not to cram too many of those moments in that one day. Having a rehearsal dinner is a great way to celebrate some of those memories the night before your wedding. This might be when you give your parents and/or bridal party their gifts or a perfect time to give a speech and toast those who’ve helped the most in your planning process.

Hit Up the Spa

Forget the morning of, friends. Hit up the spa the evening before your Big Day! Not only will this give you more time to enjoy the morning of your wedding but a massage and a glass of vino is just the ticket to work out those stressful months of planning now behind you.

Recruit Help for Last Minute Details

There will always be last-minute details. Whether you’ve got a planner, coordinator or you’re relying on your bridal party—make sure to utilize those people and not take on last-minute snafus yourself.

Read through Your Vows

Writing your own vows? Take a minute the night before your wedding (or the morning of!) to read through them. Those sweet words are what your day is all about. It doesn’t mean you have to have them memorized—they make some pretty cute books for these kinds of things! But it’s always a good idea to do a last run through beforehand.

Double-Check You’ve Got it All

Juuuust incase. Even if you’re super organized and wrote a million lists in advance to make sure you don’t forget anything, it’s always a good idea to lay out those items the evening before and do a last minute check. Tell your groom to do the same!

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Chad and Veronica were distant acquaintances at their gym for nearly 3 years, but it wasn’t until they struck up a conversation that they realized how much they had in common. Most importantly, their beloved chocolate lab dogs. And get this – those chocolate labs are the exact same age and share the exact SAME NAME. Call if fate, call it chance…we call it meet-cute perfection, and Kate Weinstein’s photos beautifully capture the love.

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From Veronica, the bride-to-be… We had mutual friends so we knew of each other for 3 years. We were members of the same gym, but in that time we never had a single conversation. A simple “Hi, how are you” or a “See ya” at the gym may have been spoken a time or two but other than that, we were just in different places in our lives. After some time, we found ourselves talking to each other for the first time and realized we had an undeniable connection.

It just so happened that Chad had a chocolate lab he got in college. Well, I had the same story. I got a chocolate lab, out of the blue, in college as well. What makes this story even weirder is that we both named them Hunter. Two chocolate labs, same names, same age. It was just meant to be!

Within the next few weeks, we were out for a mutual friends birthday party. I remember he grabbed me and said “This may sound crazy but I think we are supposed to be together.” Eight months later we were engaged and the rest is history! We now live happily ever after with our chocolate labs, Hunter & Hunter, and will tie the knot this fall.”

Photography: Kate Weinstein Photo

There’s beauty in simplicity; we hear it time and time again. But well, some cliches are popular for a reason and this shoot proves just that. It’s Day 2 of our Process Workshop deep dive and this morning we have a styled shoot courtesy of Michael and Carina Photography. With Cedarwood Weddings once again making magic, it’s a treat for tired eyes. See every pretty pic in our Vault right this way!

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From Michael and Carina… Beauty is often found in simplicity and inspired by Historic Ceadrwood’s grounds aged stone walkways and rolling meadows, the design team embraces refined natural beauty in a sophisticated palette of slate, white and greenery. A community style table set against the venue’s front hedge is lined with clear acrylic chairs and draped in grey linens. A graceful hand made foliage garland drapes off the table as a nod to the lush green surroundings found on this historic Southern estate. Pure and simple settings selected to focus on clean lines and natural beauty, accented by sophisticated white sage sprigs.

Cedarwood’s historic Southern front porch draped in greenery vines is the perfect clean backdrop for the bride’s portrait session. She is the epitome of refined beauty in her sleek, sophisticated silk gown and romantic updo.

Repeating the clean palette, an invitation suite from Designs in Paper in shades of grey is styled for photos using only simple white petals and glass atop grassy ground. To complete the style a simple single tier cake by Patty Cakes was accented with delicate dusty greens and a pure glass base.

Photography: Michael And Carina Photography | Event Design: Cedarwood Weddings | Event Planning: Cedarwood Weddings | Floral Design: Cedarwood Weddings | Cake: Patty Cakes | Shoes: Bella Belle | Hair + Makeup: Leslie Ellis | Venue: Cedarwood Weddings | Bridal Boutique: White Dresses Boutique | Paper Goods: Designs in Paper | Rentals: Liberty Party Rental | Ribbon: Honey Silks And Company

It’s weddings like this that make me LOVE logging onto Style Me Pretty every. single. day. Totally unfussy, graced with a backdrop you can’t beat and effortlessly pretty in so many ways. Initially inspired by the Bride’s vision of pops of watercolor with gold mixed in and her ‘gold-dipped’ style dress, the images from Love by Serena radiate happiness in the form of color, warm ocean breezes and of course, the sweet chemistry between these two.

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From the Bride & Groom, Jamie & Steve… The Proposal: We got engaged in Saint Maarten March of 2014! It was a vacation we were looking forward to after a snowy winter. We took a drive to the French side and watched the sunset from a local bar. The seats sat on a small pier, so you could feel the waves crashing under you. I walked up to the counter and when I turned around to come back, Steve was kneeling by the shore on one knee. He was so nervous he broke the ring box! It was very sweet and perfect for me because my heart has always been at the ocean. Everyone cheered and toasted, it was a perfect night!

About our wedding: We felt really lucky to be getting married so close to my home town! The Celebration Cottage used to be a pier, where my family went almost every weekend growing up. We wanted a space that felt cozy, open, warm and inviting. We also wanted all of our family/bridal party to be together. We rented a beach house next door to the venue and stayed the week before. Our bridal party also stayed there, so we could have some time to be together before the wedding. It was really important to us to have everyone close, not at separate hotels!

For the wedding, we wanted to keep it simple-the ocean as your background is pretty incredible. In my head I was dreaming of pops of watercolor with gold mixed in. I was an art major and have always been drawn to bright mix and match colors and whimsical details. My dress is from a local designer in Canada and it was the initial inspiration (GOLD)! I told Valerie all of this and didn’t ask for any specific flower. Her outcome was beautiful and captured what was in my mind perfectly!

From Valerie (Bridesmaid, Wife of Jamie’s brother, and Lead Florist at Blossom Bay Botanicals)… Jamie and Steve’s wedding took place in Atlantic beach NC at a brand new space called The Celebration Cottage. The Celebration Cottage is a huge, beautiful beach house built just to serve as a wedding and event venue.

Jamie and Steve were engaged March of 2014, in Saint Marteen and were the first couple to book the Cottage as it was still, as the bride puts is “a pile of wood!” Luckily this couple is the laid back creative type, so the enormity of the construction project did not intimate them. They had no doubt that the space would be finished and better than they could have ever imagined!
Jamie and Steve chose a palette with shades of nude and muted pastels, with splashes of gold. These colors are so reflective of this couple’s personality – very down to earth, but filled with spark and surprise!

They met the first day Jamie moved to Baltimore from North Carolina. On this life-altering first day in the big City, Jamie got a flat tire in the McHenry Tunnel! I think it is safe to say that this is any young woman’s nightmare, much less on such a pivotal moving day. She thought maybe that was a sign to turn around go back home, but it’s a good thing she didn’t! Five hours later, in the midst of a torrential downpour, and after being subjected to the anxiety of holding up inner city traffic for hours, Jamie’s best friend Perry managed to get her out of the traumatizing tunnel experience. Perry did what any best friend would do next – take Jamie out for drinks! It was there that Steve sat next to the beautiful wet rat that would soon be his future wife. It’s funny how one ordinary day can unfold into a complicated challenge that may change the rest of your life.

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Photography: Love by Serena | Event Coordination: Zena Underwood | Floral Design: Blossom Bay Design | Wedding Dress: Truvelle | Shoes: Clarks | Jewelry: Vintage, Heirloom from Mother of the Groom | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Nordstrom | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Vintage | Bridesmaids' Dresses: BHLDN | Men's Attire: Jos A Bank | Officiant: Craig Simmons (Father of the Bride) | Wedding Venue: Celebration Cottage | Beauty (Hair & Makeup): French Twist | Dessert: HappyCakes Cupcakery | Music - Ceremony: Greenville Strings | Music - Live Band: The Adrian Duke Project | Photography Assistance: Faith Teasley Photography | Rentals: Crystal Coast Tent And Event Rentals | Venue Coordinator: Celebration Cottage

We adore Catt Sadler and anything she touches. Her new luxe living room designed with the help of Laurel & Wolf is certainly no exception. Imagine classic style with the most gorgeous modern glam touches and you’re on the right track. Moments that include lucite and blush colored loungers are certainly a room that we can get behind. Take the full tour right here plus read up on Catt’s inspiration and favorite details below!

How would you describe your personal style and how do you think this space reflects that?

I think my personal style is warm and inviting, but also erring on the minimal side. I despise clutter or too much of anything – makes me feel heavy. I don’t over accessorize when I get dressed and I certainly don’t want too many knick knacks in my home. Less is more.

What kind of vibe and style did you want to create in this room? What did you want this room to function as?

I already have a comfortable family room where the kids and I watch TV. It is very livable. It’s where we spend most of our time as a family. It’s more durable (I have two boys!) and the hues are greys and blues. For this new space, I really wanted a more elevated, glamorous, more sophisticated room that felt more adult.

What are your favorite things about the space now?

Firstly, Laurel & Wolf was fantastic in making good use of the space in this room. They helped me figure out a more efficient plan for the furniture and created a very inviting space for entertaining. I’m obsessed with the chairs from Lawson and Fenning. I had been eyeing them for some time so I’m ecstatic we found a way to incorporate them. Kimberly suggested reupholstering my chaise lounge in blush velvet. It’s divine. I can’t seem to keep my dog Scarlett off of it, but she’s always had impeccable taste, so it makes sense.

How do you spend time in this room?

Since the room has been finished we’ve been migrating there when company comes over. We’ve sipped a few glasses of champagne. So far, it’s been a room to converse in, mostly. It doesn’t elicit being on your phone. It elicits a true feeling of “visiting” with other humans. Score!

How do your sons feel about the room?

Surprisingly, they’re very impressed. My oldest son Austin said that now I need to upgrade every room in the house. Ha!

What were a few design elements you absolutely had to have?

Firstly, I wanted a more intimate arrangement of furniture that was conducive to visiting with guests when I entertain. The room had felt “undone” for a long time with not enough seating. I also wanted to mute the color scheme quite a bit and get away from the masculine feel. I was also craving wallpaper with an art deco vibe. I travel a lot and pay close attention to hotel design for inspiration. Claridge’s London inspired this room in some ways.

What was the space like before? How does it make you feel now?

The space before was simple and sleek which I like, but just too casual. It felt like just another living space that wasn’t differentiated in any way. It was the room we never used. Now it is luxurious, inviting and warm but with a sexiness about it. The lucite and brass bar cart, blush-colored chaise lounge, and female-centric art are my favorite touches!

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Photography: Laurel & Wolf | Home of: Catt Sadler | Interior Design: Laurel & Wolf

I love the overall vision this Bride & Groom had for their Big Day: to throw a big dinner party for close friends and family. Because sometimes the jumping off point of inspiration isn’t about the details, it’s about the vibe. And then the details just fall into place so, so beautifully. Not to mention, this glowing Bride is the Co-founder of Birchbox, so of course, she looked effortlessly gorgeous. Ready for more? See all of Mark for Trent Bailey Studio‘s captures in The Vault.

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From the Bride… Our overall vision was to throw a big dinner party for close friends and family. We planned a wedding weekend, with the Arnold House as our home base. It’s a 10-room Catskills hotel that has been renovated to look very Ace-y and owned by a super cool couple who lives part time in Manhattan. Our family stayed there and we also had a Friday night welcome party in their barn and a casual Sunday brunch there (we couriered Peter Pan doughnuts and Bien Cuit croissants from the city!). The actual wedding was at East Hill, about 6 mi away. The same couple who owns the Arnold House has a 60-acre property that includes a modern pool area (where we had our cocktail hour) and a container house (where we stayed). We wanted it to be a low-key weekend of activities in a gorgeous upstate area: hiking, distillery tours, yoga at the Arnold House. 

My hair was by Jeff Chastain, and makeup by Nam Vo. It was amazing to have friends—people I’ve known and worked with for over five years—do my hair and makeup. I trusted them to make me look like myself, only better. We didn’t have a bridal party, just Rob’s best friend Julian and my sister Annie, but we had our friends and family participate in other ways. Our officiant was our dear friend Nate Rogers. We put the ceremony together ourselves, and asked friends and family to do readings from Madeline L’Engle, George Saunders, and a Brooklyn poet named Robert Hershon. Our ceremony was in a wide-open field, then we walked up to the pool area for cocktails, then reception under a tent.

Poppies & Posies did a spectacular job with our florals. I wanted seasonal, not too girly—an undone organic look but not hippie. They nailed it and were a dream to work with. Rob designed all our printed materials (though my best friend and Birchbox cofounder Hayley did the menus!), and we had them printed by our longtime Birchbox printer Tazo at 4over4. Then we roped in another friend, Allidah, to write our escort cards, which hung on the fence at cocktail hour. It takes a village.

Food was a huge priority for us! We worked with Oliver Kita, an incredibly skilled caterer to create a big, happy dinner party. We designed a menu that felt like something we would do at home (obviously not at this scale or all at once). For cocktail hour, we the Italian aperitivo hour tradition so we had an entire bar of negronis and spritzes and a giant wooden table piled with charcuterie and mostly local cheese. There were other delicious snacks like radishes with local butter, and deviled eggs because Rob loves them. Dinner was family-style and, again, foods that we would make ourselves: steak with chimichurri sauce, roasted vegetables, great crusty bread. My parents sourced 20 vintage soda bottles that we filled with olive oil for the table and my dad personally hemmed and folded all the napkins. Oliver made us a naked wedding cake that I swear tasted just like birthday cake, plus homemade mallomars as a party favor. We were also lucky to have the Doug Winters Band keeping everyone on the dance floor. Rob had seen this band at a wedding in 2009, where he danced so much he sprained his ligament. Our first dance was to Jackie Wilson’s “Your Love Keeps Lifting Me Higher.”

My dress was by Roland Mouret. I wanted something modern and simple but with pretty details. My shoes were by Jimmy Choo. Rob wore a made to measure suit by Monsieur Brunold and shoes by Church’s.

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Photography: Mark for Trent Bailey Studio | Floral Design: Poppies And Posies | Wedding Dress: Roland Mouret | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Catering: Oliver Kita Fine Catering | Groom’s Attire: Monsieur Brunold | Groom’s Shoes: Church’s

We kicked off sharing the looks from The Process Workshop with Julie Paisley’s boho bridesmaids earlier today, and now it’s time for some classic, SMP style, al fresco romance. And Lauren Fair is here to deliver. With a floral installation that leaves us in absolute awe, to a ceremony spot that’s about to go viral on your Pinterest boards, Cedarwood Weddings created a scene straight out of a fairytale. See it all in our Vault right this way!

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From Lauren Fair… We were honored to have Style Me Pretty as a part of our fall joint workshop alongside Jeremy Chou, Julie Paisley Photography and Michael & Carina at the Process Workshop! The sweetness of true love and fabled cottage fairy tales inspires this wedding style of lush garden floral and pastels at Historic Cedarwood in Nashville, TN. King’s tables lined in luxe silken fabric in tones of champagne and gold are topped with bountiful centerpieces and gilded sparkling glass. A breathtaking hanging flower installation contrasts the reclaimed wood reception terrace adjacent to a picturesque cottage ceremony location, all complete with greenery and lush garden style!

The bride wears a gown as delicate as a daydream with flutter shoulder details and an airy skirt. Her look is complete with a romantic updo and floral accents.

Paper goods from Designs in Paper include a watercolor floral vellum enclosure and rose gold foil invitation styled in powder blue silk from Honey Silk & Co.

Photography: Lauren Fair Photography | Event Design: Cedarwood Weddings | Event Planning: Cedarwood Weddings | Floral Design: Cedarwood Weddings | Shoes: Bella Belle | Hair + Makeup: Leslie Ellis | Wedding Venue: Cedarwood Weddings | Bridal Boutique: White Dresses Boutique | Paper Goods: Designs in Paper | Rentals: Liberty Party Rental | Silk: Honey Silks And Company

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Photography

Lauren Fair Photography

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If the color blue isn’t on your favorites list, this wedding will completely change your mind. It’s infused from beginning to end with a moody, romantic color palette inspired by the Bride’s love of art. And that nod to fine art doesn’t stop there. Crafted by The Wildflowers with lush florals by The Southern Table, a painted card display by Kayla Barker and all that beauty captured by one of our favorites, Ryan Ray Photography, pore through image after insanely gorgeous image right here.

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From the event designer, The Wildflowers… Samantha and Michael’s winter wedding was like dancing through a work of art right out of the Romantic Era. The initial vision of their celebration called for moody and dramatic color themes, when the discovery a floral watercolor painting hung in Samantha’s home presented us with the perfect palette: dusty blue-gray, deep navy, rich plum and berry, with tiny hints of blush and green. Samantha’s love for art beautifully influenced many of our design decisions, like Southern Fried Paper’s watercolor envelope liners to the custom-painted ombré blue escort card display.

Along with an ode to fine art, another aesthetic ethos was an emphasis of the color palette in subtle yet impactful ways. Gradients of twilight made appearances from the spectrum of bridesmaid gowns to the invitations, including dining cards that used shades of blue to dictate meal choices rather than standard text. The rich shades of plum and amaranthine complemented the blues in the bouquets and the breathtaking floral ceiling installation at the reception. Vibrant freesia that was dip-dyed by The Southern Table to create dramatic depth, as the flowers rained down among string lights over the tablescapes in a truly ethereal dining atmosphere.

From the ceremony to the reception, we strove for this harmony of classic and whimsical. In subtle ways, like the undone romantic florals, carefully arranged staggered silverware, and flowing fabrics with loose ribbons. And more noticeably, in the medley of androgyny and femininity in colors, textures, and shapes throughout. It was a night that was beautiful, sentimental, and iconic; with Samantha and Michael’s getaway in a 1964 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud leaving a last, long lasting impression on all of us.

Photography: Ryan Ray Photography | Florist: Max Owens Design | Cake: Cathy Young | Ceremony Venue: Southwest School Of Art And Craft | Reception Venue: The Argyle Club San Antonio | Makeup: Suzie Bassett | Hair: Erica Rae | Calligraphy: The Left Handed Calligrapher | Lighting: Holtz Entertainment | Ceremony Music: Terra Vista Strings | Design & Planning: The Wildflowers | Desserts & Croquembouche: Bakery Lorraine | Escort Card Display Paintings: Kayla Barker Fine Art Photography | Invitations & Paper Goods: Southern Fried Paper | Reception Music: The Drywater Band | Rentals: Bella Acento | Rentals: Loot Vintage Rentals | Rentals: Melody's Joy | Shuttles: Star Shuttle

Not gonna lie… I spent a hefty amount of time researching engagement rings in The Vault and on Pinterest. Even though I wanted my hubs to add his own touch, I figured, there’s nothing wrong with hinting toward what I liked, right? No shame my friends, no shame. And I think we’d all be lying if we said celeb rings didn’t influence us the least bit—they totally do. We’ve got Brilliant Earth here today to prove it, along with three recent celebrity ring style stats.

From Jaimie Herrmann of Brilliant Earth… Celebrities have a strong influence on style trends, and that extends to engagement rings and fine jewelry. We often see a spike in interest in certain designs or gemstones after a high profile celebrity engagement. Our audience loves content that showcases different twists on the trend, or curated lists of styles inspired by the celebrity’s ring.

Across the board the jewelry search trends reinforced that couples are seeking more unique engagement rings that reflect their personal style. Couples are increasingly interested in distinctive blush-hued rose gold. While round brilliant diamonds remain most popular, we’re also seeing more couples opting for oval and pear shaped diamonds and more distinctive colored gemstones like morganite.

Rose gold engagement rings are nearly 7 times more popular than they were in 2004, making it the most trendy metal for 2017.
 Thanks, Lauren Conrad!

Interest in Sapphire jewelry nearly tripled when Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton in 2010.

Cushion cut diamond searches spiked when Kanye gave Kim her stunning engagement ring.

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Prettiest Engagement Rings Ever

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Prettiest Engagement Rings Ever

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A couple weeks ago, we announced the Launch Party for Lilly Pulitzer’s new Lilly White Dress Collection, and if you think we busted out our party shoes and hit the retail floor running, you’re right. It was an afternoon of yummy treats + drinks, plus a whole lot of falling in love with some stunning attire. Couldn’t make all of the festivities? No worries. The celebration is still continuing online.

What’s better than spending the day soaking in one of the prettiest lineups of little white dresses you’ll ever lay your eyes upon, aka, the Lilly White Dress Collection? Well, actually… nothing. Which is why our Launch Party experience was so darn awesome. From chatting with the talented + knowledgeable staff to browsing each and every gorgeous number (check out The Ashlyn Shift Dress – it’s amazing) to sipping on tasty drinks, this was a day that was made for anyone who is tying the knot, honeymooning in paradise or simply planning to bop around the beach all summer long.

The one thing that stood out about Lilly Pulitzer’s new Lilly White Dress Collection? It’s versatility. Because whether you are looking for the perfect dress for that seaside wedding, a chic frock for your rehearsal dinner or a lineup of fab attire that will look fab as you honeymoon through the islands, the new Lilly White Dress Collection has you totally covered. Which makes perfect sense, really, since Lilly Pulitzer stands for Resort 365 and that means rockin’ a beautiful white frock all year long. There are no rules when it’s sunny, loves.

Head to Lilly Pulitzer today to check out the Lilly White Dress Collection online. This is a party that just keeps on going and, trust us… you need to get to know this collection. It’s awesome.

Photography: Sara Kauss Photography

I’ve never seen a Santa Barbara wedding I didn’t love, so it’s no wonder Mary-Margaret and Beau chose it as the locale for their big day. The California sun made for stunning photos captured by Anna Delores Photography, and you better believe Wedding Kate had their nuptials perfectly planned from start to finish. If classic, timeless and chic are your thing, head right this way for even more to love.

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From Anna Delores Photography… Mary-Margaret and Beau traveled from their native Texas to Santa Barbara to host family and friends for a fun-filled mid-autumn getaway. Their lavish wedding at the Four Seasons Biltmore Resort in Santa Barbara was expertly planned, designed, and coordinated by Katie Seefeldt of Wedding Kate, with stunning florals by Jaime of Casa Blanca Event Design. The couple’s all-white ceremony, covered in lovely white blooms, was held on the Monte Vista Lawn, and their reception in the La Pacifica Ballroom at the Four Seasons.

Photography: Emily Loeppke Photography | Event Planning: Wedding Kate | Floral Design: Casa Blanca Floral & Event Design | Stationery: Sisters Ink Studio | Catering: Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara | Hair & Makeup: Jose Eber Salon | Wedding Venue: Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Santa Barbara Historical Museum | Rentals: The Tent Merchant

Inspiration comes in many forms, but when it’s crafted in the hands of top-notch vendors, beautiful things happen. In the words of photographer Heather Payne, “This design collaboration focuses on capturing the natural beauty of the bride and groom, the unity of their ceremony, overflowing lush florals and other carefully curated decor details.” See how all of the above came to life this way in the gallery.

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From Heather Payne Photography… This look was inspired by the beautiful grounds of Christiansen’s Nursery. With lush landscapes, arching trees and gorgeous glass houses, these verdant venues provide a beautiful backdrop for any event.

This design collaboration focuses on capturing the natural beauty of the bride and groom, the unity of their ceremony, overflowing lush florals and other carefully curated decor details. Wearing a sleek Inbal Dror gown, the bride clutches an artfully-arranged bridal bouquet of sustainably-grown flowers as she walks down the isle to meet her groom. Meanwhile, the muted mocha tones in the table linens create an unexpectedly elegant neutral base to the classic white and green color palette.

Interspersed between the florals and china are natural beeswax taper candles in varying heights to provide additional vertical interest to the table setting. Special touches abound, from the timeless calligraphy on the Brown Linen Design name cards to the vintage flower pinfrogs utilized as name card holders, a subtle nod to the floral-centric nature of the celebration. It was pure joy to collaborate with Floret Flowers and our team.

Photography : Heather Payne | Wedding Dress: Inbal Dror | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Hair & Makeup: Yessie Libby | Venue: Christianson's Nursery | Calligraphy & Paper Goods: Brown Linen Design | Candles : Creative Candles | Earrings: BHLDN | Flowers & Design: Floret Flowers | Models: Alyssa Knowling

Are you looking for the most picturesque rustic wedding inspiration? Look no further! With incredible neutral florals and Autumn-inspired centerpieces from The Days Designs, every last detail of this couple’s day blended perfectly into the picturesque setting. Trust me, you’ll regret not looking over the entire gallery, all captured flawlessly by Ashley Slater.

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From the event designer… Oh the views that would surround Shelby and Paul’s guests, making them fall in love with this wedding day even more. And as a designer, I couldn’t imagine creating something that could complete with this natural beauty of the surround farmlands, wheat fields and ponds there are all part of Misty Farms. I knew this would be a day spent in the sun, with all of creation singing with glory. Cowboy boots, wheat grasses and cool fall tones inspired me.

Autumn’s textures were abundant and I wanted Shelby’s bouquet to fit right in with this breathtaking backdrop. In lieu of centerpieces, we created vignettes of pumpkins, pears and scattered bud vases full of ingredients that looked as though they may have been picked from the farms lush gardens. The ceremony took place next to the pond. We stacked wooden crates with pumpkins and grasses, framing the couple but careful not to disrupt nature’s stunning views. Cotton rag rugs served as aisle runners, guiding the guests along to what seemed like a secret cove among the farm’s expansive property.

Shelby took a big risk planning an open air dinner in the middle of October, but it paid off big time as warm winds prevailed. Between the barn and the classic brick home, guests dined on long wooden tables arranged in a horseshoe shape to encourage conversation with bistro light strung above. It was the most picturesque October night, full of love and laughter and unique touches such as an alfresco barbecue dinner, a watercolor artist on sight, dancing in a 19th century barn and farm animals were special guests.

Photography: Ashley Slater | Videography: Coastline Studios | Wedding Dress: Olvi's | Reception Venue: Misty Farm | Florals & Event Design: The Days Design | Watercolor Artist: Jordana Designs

Last fall, SMP had the divine pleasure of setting up shop in Nashville, Tennessee with a group of some of the best and brightest (and can we say sweetest) photographers around for The Process Workshop. And leading the pack? The unstoppable Julie Paisley. The amount of beauty that was captured there is hard to believe so we’re spending the next two days diving in – kicking it all off is Julie with her boho bridesmaids and some pretty funky, fabulous colors. See it all right this way (and stay tuned for more Process Workshop pretties to come)!

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From Julie Paisley… The initial excitement kicking off a bride’s wedding day is the joy of getting ready, and we think it should be especially memorable! Inspired by the fun and excitement shared by a bride and her best friends, the Cedarwood Weddings team designed a dream boho bridesmaids bash set in an outdoor living room with vintage airstream backdrop!

A vibrant color scheme of tangerine, burnt red, buttercup, and blackberry accented with romantic bohemian gowns were the perfect complement to rustic hipster décor. A drink station of blackberry bubbly, crushed berry compote and brie, and a funky leather ottoman lounge provided a playful location for free-spirited fun!

The bride rocked a Rue de Seine macramé gown and steal-worthy booties completed with a bright and bold flower crown and texture filled bouquet of roses, pin cushion proteas, ranunculus, scabiosa, sunflower centers, and greenery. Bridesmaids repeating the flower crowns wore dusty purple gowns from Bella Bridesmaids and carried bouquets of pin cushion proteas and mismatched hand dyed silk ribbon from Honey Silk & Co.

A paper suite by Designs in Paper, just as individual and trend setting, included custom watercolor design and rose gold foil inspired by the vibrant and funky floral combinations of the day.

Photography: Julie Paisley Photography | Event Design: Cedarwood Weddings | Event Planning: Cedarwood Weddings | Floral Design: Cedarwood Weddings | Wedding Dress: Rue De Seine | Ring: Susie Saltzman | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Bella Bridesmaid | Hair + Makeup: Leslie Ellis | Wedding Venue: Cedarwood Weddings | Bridal Boutique: The Dress Theory | Paper Goods: Designs in Paper | Rentals: Liberty Party Rental | Ribbons: Honey Silks And Company

It’s no surprise that this beautiful duo pulled off one of the prettiest fetes I’ve seen all week… they happened to meet at a wedding! Once you begin to peruse the images from Nikki Santerre, I think you’ll agree. And while you might be dying to know what venue they landed—you’ll come to find that their Big Day backdrop is the Groom’s parents’ estate. Ridiculously gorgeous, right? See it all in motion with the film from Heart Stone Films below!

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From Nikki Santerre… No detail was without intention on Jessica & Stephen’s wedding day. Having planned her Virginia wedding on Stephen’s parent’s estate from their home on the West Coast, Taylor of Alyson Taylor Events perfectly executed Jessica’s vision for a “West Coast style” meets “East Coast tradition” event. A memorial table for Jessica’s late father, beautiful bar display including His and Hers signature cocktails, a mix of both modern and classic chandeliers, and lovely lounge furniture all made the tent come alive with elegance and joy. The couple also met at a wedding, and chose their reception band because they were playing at the event where they met. The emotion of Jessica and Stephen’s First Look, caught on film, was truly one of the highlights of the day as well.

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Photography: Nikki Santerre Photography | Event Design: Alyson Taylor Events | Floral Design: The Proper Petal | Wedding Dress: Watters | Cake: Sweet Fix RVA | Invitations: Sue Corral Ink | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Joanna August | Catering: A Sharper Palate Catering & Events | Hair and Makeup: Avenue 42 | Calligraphy: Capital Calligraphy | Calligraphy: Sincerely Amy Designs | Lighting: Blue Steel Lighting | Band: Soul Expressions | Desserts: Sweet Bella Bakery | Film Lab: PhotoVision Prints | Linens: Party Tables | Rentals: Rent Equip | Rentals: Paisley & Jade | Silk Ribbon: Silk and Willow | Specialty Chairs: Perfect Settings | Video: Heart Stone Films

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Petit Bouquet

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From the palest blue bridesmaid dresses to a reception infused with coastal hues, this wedding totally embraces its seaside roots. And it has a team of incredible vendors behind the scenes. With planning by Posh Petals and Pearls, Greenery and blooms by Marble + Pine, pore through the gallery of images captured by Rach Loves Troy along with a film of the celebration below.

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This day could not have been more beautiful. Even with rain off and on all day Mandy’s sweet nature and gorgeous smile brightened the whole day and made for the perfect classically southern soiree! Tara from posh petals and pearls took Mandy’s bridesmaid dress color and want for a coastal theme and totally transformed that ballroom at the The Crystal Coast Club. These two have been together for over 10 years and had been through so much with a long distance relationship for a huge portion of that. It was amazing to see everyone come together and celebrate this couple that they had watched grow so much together over a 10 year time. One of my favorite details of the day was the book that Andrew gave to Mandy the day of their wedding. He had bought it on the day he proposed and started writing in it every single day from that point on. About their life and how excited he was for their wedding and to marry her. What an incredible gift. All I could think was how amazing it would be to share with their children one day.

Photographer : Rach Loves Troy | Videographer: Rach Loves Troy | Floral Design: Marble + Pine | Cake: The Beach Bakery | Hair & Makeup: Jessica Davis of The Glosserie | Bridesmaid Dress: Jenny Yoo | Linens: Beachview Event Rentals and Design | Planning: Posh Petals and Pearls | Rentals: Crystal Coast Tent And Event Rentals | Signage: AR Chalkboard Design | ceremony & reception: Crystal Coast Country Club | rentals: charming and quaint

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Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

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Summer might be my favorite season for weddings, but I have to admit, there’s nothing quite as pretty as bridal portraits in the fall. Case in point? These two lovebirds with their happy smiles in the crunchy leaves. Their entire day is filled with the very loveliest of details, from the navy bridesmaids to the 50-year-old cake topper the Bride surprised her grandmother with (how sweet?). See more captured by Mekina Saylor Weddings in The Vault!

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From Mekina Saylor… Katie + Alex’s wedding day was something of a fairytale. The Madison Hotel in Morristown, New Jersey was the perfect place for these two to tie the knot. After sharing a loving first look they walked hand in hand through the tree-lined sidewalks and fields full of orange and burgundy leaves. They calmed one another while at the same time Katie effortlessly fell into Alex’s arms which quite honestly was so romantic. The chandelier filled Conservatory was drop dead gorgeous for both their ceremony and reception. Guests shared tears of joy and later on joined the newlyweds on the dance floor for an epic night of memories. The best part of the night was when Katie surprised her grandmother with the same cake toppers she had used at her wedding day over 50 years ago! Their day was perfect. It was elegant and beautiful and filled with so much happiness!

Photography: Mekina Saylor Weddings | Floral Design: Kim Auriemma Design | Wedding Dress: Hayley Paige | Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Bridesmaids Dresses: Hayley Paige | Hair + Makeup: MG Hair & Makeup | Getting Ready + Ceremony + Reception: The Madison Hotel | Photography - Assistance: Cassady K Photography

Crystal blue skies and sandy beaches are two ingredients that make any wedding shine, and when it comes to finding a venue that boasts BOTH, Hotel Casa del Mar has it all… and then some. So today we’re celebrating two of our fave Hotel Casa del Mar weddings, because if there’s one thing that this Monday needs, it’s a little So Cal sunshine. Dive into all of the pretty below.

Located along the breathtaking beaches of Santa Monica, Hotel Casa del Mar is the type of place where wedding dreams seriously do come true… and not just because they happen to boast the most ornate ballroom in Southern California with breathtaking ocean views and natural light. Nope, this seaside paradise is all about making your wedding weekend the celebration of the century with a talented staff of wedding pros that can handle your every want + need, plus crazy luxurious accommodations for you and your guests. From their amazing proximity to Santa Monica shopping, entertainment and night life to their fitness and spa options to their team of talented Executive Chefs that can (and will) create a menu that your guests will be talking about for years to come, Hotel Casa del Mar has you totally covered. Just ask these sweethearts tying the knot… they’re awesome.

Whether you dream of waking up the morning of your wedding to stare at the beautiful ocean views, want a venue that knows a thing or two about the word “luxury” or all of the above, Hotel Casa del Mar will make sure your entire celebration is one that will go down in the history books. Contact them today to get started on that journey to your Big Day and be sure to follow them on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and Instagram for even more real weddings and to be constantly inspired.

Photography: Lin And Jirsa Photography | Photography: Love Lux Life

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Petit Bouquet

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