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Cabo Style Meets Alice in Wonderland Inspired Design at Querencia


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What color scheme did you choose and why? This was hard for me – I didn’t even know where to start choosing colors! It ended up happening kind of organically as planning went on. I think it started to come together when I began designing the invitations. I found this artwork on Etsy that perfectly captured the funky garden theme I was going for. It had lots of greens, oranges, corals, and pinks. We incorporated the invitation art into the bars at the reception, and Pamela found these green tablecloths that went perfectly with the look. We used coral for the dance floor and let Pina and her team take care of the rest with flowers!

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How did you choose your wedding venue? That part was easy! My family has a home in Cabo, and Ross and I knew we wanted to get married there pretty early on. We are members of Querencia, and it has a gorgeous chapel and lawn for the reception. It was a no-brainer for us. We love the fact that we get to go back to Querencia often and, hopefully someday, show our kids the spot where we said I do. It will always have a special place in our hearts. Did your wedding have a theme? From the beginning, I had the idea of having a funky garden party. At the time, I was not even sure if I fully knew what that entailed, but my wedding planner, Pamela Franssen, nailed it! The whole night felt like you were in Cabo’s version of Alice in Wonderland. It was colorful, playful, eclectic, and whimsical, but it still honored Cabo’s natural beauty. I loved everything about it! One of my friends called it a boogie wonderland wedding, and I think that’s pretty accurate.

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How did you meet, and how long did you date before getting engaged? We met through my childhood best friend who went to college with Ross at Texas A&M. They are both huge A&M fans, and I come from a big family of Texas Longhorns, so I don’t think she anticipated us hitting it off so well when she introduced us! To her surprise, we started dating, and Ross asked me to be his girlfriend on Leap Day 2019. We like to joke that we dated less than a year before we got married. Length of engagement: 9 months. We knew we wanted to get married in Cabo in April, so it was either make it happen in 9 months or wait 20! I’m glad we went with the shorter route because I have a hard time making decisions and it forced me to think fast. Who proposed? When and how? Ross proposed to me at his family’s home in Galveston on July 9th, 2022. I found out later he was planning on proposing the weekend before at my family’s lake house, but we both got COVID-19, and he had to switch gears. The lake house is my happy place, and the bay is his, so being close to the water is something we both share a love for. When he popped the question, it was just the two of us, watching the sunset over the water. I can’t imagine anything better. The next day he surprised me by putting together a party with all our family and friends, some from out of town. It still amazes me how he pulled that off in less than a week!

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Bride Shoes: Loeffler Randall


Bride Earrings and bracelet: The gold earrings I wore were a wedding present from Ross. The gold tennis bracelet was passed down from my late grandmother, Holly, who passed away in 2021. I wanted to wear it to have her there with me on my wedding day.

Bride Dress: Wedding dress, Monique Lhuillier

After Party dress, custom by Kit Made Designs


Rings: Klein’s Jewelry
Groom Suit: Balani Custom Clothiers


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Bridesmaid dresses: Show Me Your Mumu

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Groom Suit: Balani Custom Clothiers[/field]
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How did you choose your table decor? That took some time, and it came together piece by piece. I knew I wanted something unique but also something I would look back on in 20 years and still love. It took a while, but Pamela was super patient and willing to go back and forth with me until we both felt like we got it just right. She made this amazing vision board on Canva that helped me see how things would look, and I started narrowing down things I liked from there. Between the two of us, I think we had 10 different Canva boards at one point. It started to come together when we landed on the black cane chairs, and then things evolved from there – black chargers to tie in the chairs, green floral tablecloth, rattan and natural wood votives, lots and lots of candles, etc. What flowers did you use in the bouquet and at the venue? I’ve always dreamed of the flowers at my wedding, so I knew early on the floral design was going to be very important to me. When I started researching vendors, I came across Pina Cate and fell in love with her work. I honestly couldn’t say what kind of flowers we had because most I had never even seen before! Everything they do is so meticulous and unique, like living art in floral form. We also had these huge paper flowers that we used as a photo backdrop and accents for our lounges. I had never seen anything like them before, and they took the reception to another level.

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Our first dance was a special moment. It was the first time we got to see the reception, and it felt like we had been transported to this magical place. We chose a song by Leon Bridges, who we love. It felt like it was just us out there, dancing like we do in our living room. The entire night on the dance floor. Our band, The Big Beyond, was amazing, and I think every person (including my 90-year-old grandmother!) was on the dance floor from start to finish. It felt like we were at a concert, and everyone was having so much fun. It was cool.

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What were your wedding favors? We gave our guests welcome bags with Mexican snacks, topo chicos, and, of course, an “I overdid it kit” to get them through the weekend events. We also had personalized koozies and matchboxes at the bars, and at the end of the wedding, we had Texas-style breakfast tacos for a late-night snack. Those were a hit!

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Please describe about 4 favorite moments: Having the fireworks show while Sky Full of Stars played in the background was pretty epic. Followed by a tequila shot cart and tray passed churros. I mean, wow. We were blessed with the most amazing sunset during the reception. Cotton candy-colored skies that happened to match our whole aesthetic perfectly. We truly felt like God was smiling down on us at that moment. It was beautiful.

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What did you learn from the experience? As hard as it seems, don’t sweat the small stuff, and trust your instincts! It’s so easy to get caught up in the idea of perfection, especially when things like social media and Pinterest exist. I was guilty of this, and it made it hard. My dad gave me a great piece of advice when I was struggling over one of many decisions. He said in 30 years, you aren’t going to care what your dance floor looked like or what color chairs you had. What you will remember is how happy you felt with Ross and all the people who came to celebrate. And he was right! When I look back at the pictures, all I think about is how much fun we had and how the night came together in a way that captured Ross and my personality and love perfectly. It also doesn’t hurt that Pamela and the Amy Abbott team made the entire wedding planning process a breeze, and the weekend events were flawless! If you could sum up your wedding day in one sentence, how would you describe it? The culmination of a magical 3-day celebration with our closest family and friends.

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Photography: Meraki Weddings | Videographer: Meraki Weddings | Flowers: Pina Cate Design | Invitations: Bering's | Stationery: Bells & Whistles Cabo | Ceremony Venue: Querencia | Reception Venue: Querencia | Hair and Makeup: Blanc Bridal Salon | Planning: Amy Abbott Events | Production: Stage Pro Cabo | Rentals: Baja Boutique Rental Co | Rentals: Warehouse Rentals | Rentals: Yaya Rentals | Seating Chart & Giant Flowers: Sofia Orozco

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
A Classic Summer Wedding With Timeless Design at Daniel’s Vineyard


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White, Black, Gold and Olive Green

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The day was a classic summer vibe with a timeless design. From the color scheme to the vineyard location and added accessories like the parosol umbrellas, fans, and champagne tower.

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Frani and Jack had passed appetizers like street corn and plated taco entree dinner. The bride and groom chose to eat their dinner in private. Love! It is such a great way to take time with one another amongst a day that goes so fast.

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Floral was strictly white in coloring, with white roses as the stand-out variation in the ceremony arch, bud vases on the reception tables, and accent pieces throughout the day. The baby’s breath and hydrangeas added a nice touch in variation. The classic Calla Lily flower took center stage as the bridal bouquet. We loved the variation in white throughout the different floral pieces.

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The wedding cake was a small classic white cake in the shape of a heart that said “just married” on top. The bride’s sister made the cake adding a heartfelt connection to this part of the day.

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Photography: Lauren Peterson Photography | Videographer: Ivy Ridge | Coordination: Christina Burton Events | Florist: Bellagio Florals | Reception Venue: Daniel's Vineyard | Catering: First Class Catering | Makeup: Raye Beauty Co | Hair: Engy Ibrihim | Reception Band: Bluewater Kings Band

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
A Colorful Wedding With Painterly Vibes at Monte Bello Estate


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sage and blush combination

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]best way to describe my vision for the wedding was whimsical garden fairytale – I was looking for a beautiful landscape that we could add fun, colorful florals to and Monte Bello Estate ended up being the perfect venue to bring this vision to life.[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Since Andrew and I were both on call during Christmas, we decided on having a delayed Christmas celebration, and on that night, Andrew told me I could start by opening my first present, which was “on the tree.” When I looked, a new ornament in the shape of a little package addressed to me was on the tree, and when I opened it, there was a little message in a bottle saying “Sayeh will you marry me?” and when I turned around, he was down on one knee. It was so sweet and thoughtful, and one of the best nights of my life!

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My wedding gown was a custom Valentini gown that I purchased at Dimitra’s Bridal in Chicago.

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Bridesmaids’ attire was blush pink Azazie gowns.

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Andrew had a custom Hall Madden tuxedo, and the groomsmen rented tuxedos from the Black Tux.

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Courses included an arugula and goat cheese salad starter, entrees of Chilean sea bass and filet mignon served with sides of parmesan gnocchi and grilled asparagus. Specialty drinks were an espresso martini and margarita (named the Luna Meowtini and Juno Meowgarita after our cats)

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Florals by Life in Bloom, inspired by a garden fairytale theme

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Our cake included layers of lemon cake with lemon cream cheese and blueberry jam, as well as almond cake with raspberry jam and almond buttercream. We also served an assortment of desserts, including tiramisu and cheesecake cups, macaroons, and cookies.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]Evolution Band provided our ceremony and reception music and they were by far one of the highlights of the evening. Their energy was infectious and our guests absolutely loved them. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Fireworks display in the evening to end a true fairytale night, followed by a Persian dance party! [/field]
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Photography: Kristin La Voie Photography | Videography: Mirar Media | Floral Design: Life In Bloom | Dress: Valentini | Stationery: Steracle Press | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Azazie | Hair & Makeup: Tamara Makeup + Hair Artistry | Band: Ken Arlen Evolution Band | Tux: Hall Madden | Officiant: The Wedding Rev | Venue: The Monte Bello Estate | Boutique: Dimitra's Bridal Couture | Fireworks: Mad Bomber Fireworks | Live Painter: michael latala | Photo Booth: Pixster Photo Booths | Planning: Clementine Custom Events

The Top 6 Tips to Keep in Mind When Planning a European Destination Wedding

Destination weddings can be intimate, exciting and undeniably romantic… but they can also be riddled with language barriers, complicated timelines and travel woes. That being said, if saying “I do” in a far-away locale has always been your dream – then don’t lose faith! Couture Events is here to bring you their top 6 tips that will make planning your destination wedding a total breeze. For some inspiration along the way, take in all the beauty this romantic shoot at Chateau De Villette has to offer. Couture Events thoughtful planned every detail while Floraison supplied the most breathtaking blooms in pink and cream hues. Be sure to check out the full gallery captured perfectly by Sophie Kaye Photography because every image is truly stunning. 

From Couture EventsWhen you find the one and you are deeply in love, it’s like something out of a fairytale. Where better to go than where the fairytales originated. So many beautiful tales came to live in Europe and to create your own there is completely a dream come true. We believe in intimate & romantic destination weddings. From Bordeaux to Lake Como we have some destination tips for your European wedding. There are so many gorgeous chateaus in France and this, Chateau De Villette, is one of our favorites because you can have your event here but also stay in this breathtaking chateau overlooking gorgeous gardens. Truly a Marie Antoinette moment!

Here are Couture Events top six tips for an European Destination Wedding:

1. Arriva presto – This is Italian for Arrive EARLY. Get there before your guests arrive, give yourself time to settle in. This will also calm your nerves and help you feel more comfortable in this setting. This way you are able to welcome your guests as they come into this beautiful place and experience and enjoy seeing each of them instead of feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

2. Confiance – Means TRUST in french. Hire professionals you trust is essential . We suggest hiring a professional planner & also a travel agent (yes two separate people who you can trust to do what they do best) who are able to communicate with the vendors and venue to take care of every detail for you. They can help you source and find local vendors in your destination or bring in vendors if needed. It may seem like an unnecessary expense but ultimately it will save you unnecessary stress of trying to communicate with all of the vendors yourself and figure out travel for you and your guests (don’t rely on the on-site hotel panner, they are there for the hotel, not for you.)

3. Licencia de matrimonio – In translation from Spanish to english is marriage license. Get your marriage license before your trip or do a small ceremony at the courthouse. Do this in your hometown to avoid frustration and roadblocks when you arrive at your destination. It’s a fun idea to get your marriage actually certified in a foreign country but it’s a lot of work and usually causes more aggravation then it’s worth.

4. Visit in Advance – Yes, this is english for “make sure you see your venue and the destination before you get there”, not all of England looks like Cornwall. We highly suggest that you visit your destination before you get married there. This will avoid any unrealistic exceptions and also give you a better vision for your wedding day.

5. Embrasser la culture – Is french for embrace the culture! Whether you are in Spain, Italy, or France for your wedding, we suggest you fully immerse yourself and your guests. Whatever that location is known for let that take priority. Give your guests a taste of the culture, this will also give you more options and better quality options when choosing caterers and can also ultimately help you save money. For example: DO NOT even think about serving Mexican in France… Choose a french dish and plan on the party going until 6am (“when in Rome” or in this case, France).

6. ο συγχρονισμός είναι το παν – Means Timing is EVERYTHING in Greek. Make sure you know what the weather will be like at that time. Weather is different in different parts of the world and while it may be beautiful where you are from in your destination the entire town might be shut down. For example, I once tried to visit Santorini in December… Thankfully my travel agent let me know Santorini mostly closes down in December. Make sure you check and have your professionals inform you on what it will be like at that time of year from their past experience.

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Photography: Sophie Kaye Photography | Design: Couture Events | Florist: Floraison | Stationery: Theoberry | Shoes: Bella Belle | Hair & Makeup: Emily Artistry | Wedding Venue: Villa Balbiano | Accessories: Lindsay Marie Design | Cinema: Randi Michelle | Fashion Coordinator: Coco Kliks | Model: Alison Cossenet | Planning: Couture Events | Tabletop Rentals: Madame de la Maison

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Glamorous Romance Meets Riviera Maya Charm: A Grand Velas Celebration


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From Isabella, their wedding photographer: “The color palette consisted of a refined blend of soft whites, lush greenery, and delicate blush tones, elevated by hints of muted gold. Each hue was thoughtfully chosen to enhance the romantic and intimate ambiance of the celebration, creating a harmonious balance between classic and modern elements.”

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]From our bride, Nara:
“The vision for our wedding was a beautiful blend of modern elegance and romantic charm. I envisioned spaces adorned with stunning floral arrangements that would immediately catch the eye—a mix of white blooms and soft pastel shades to create a fresh and inviting atmosphere.
For the reception, I wanted it to feel intimate, filled with the subtle glow of candles and soft lighting that would envelop our guests in warmth. Personal touches throughout the decor would reflect who we are as a couple, from custom signage to meaningful mementos that tell our story.”[/field]
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From Nara, our bride: “After four incredible years together, Justin completely took me by surprise with a proposal I’ll never forget. Just a day before we were headed to Jamaica to celebrate my birthday, he had something far more special in mind. My sister cleverly tricked me into thinking we were going to a business dinner, so when we arrived, I had no idea what awaited me. As soon as I walked through the double doors of the venue, my breath was taken away. It felt like stepping into a romantic dream. I immediately saw Justin standing at the end of a rose petal-covered aisle, lined with candles, looking incredibly dapper in a charcoal double-breasted suit. Above him, a sign read, “Will you marry me?” The soft strains of “All My Life” by KC & JOJO filled the air, creating the perfect atmosphere. When I looked at him, I saw that warm, genuine smile that melts my heart. At IAtthat moment, it felt like time stood still. As I got closer, I noticed our families quietly cheering us on from the side, their faces glowing with love and joy. When he took my hands and asked me to marry him, a rush of happiness overwhelmed me. Surrounded by the people we love most, everything felt perfect. I said yes without hesitation, knowing I wanted to spend forever with him. It was a magical night, and I couldn’t have imagined a better way to start this new chapter together.”

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From Nara, our bride: “My ceremony dress was truly a dream. Designed by Martina Liana, it was the very first dress I tried on, and as soon as I slipped it on, I knew it was the one. I was captivated by the stunning 3D flowers and the subtle hints of shimmer that added just the right touch of magic. It felt like the most perfect dress for my special day. For the reception, I chose a dress by Essense of Australia, which complemented my ceremony dress beautifully. The elegance of both dresses created a seamless transition, allowing me to feel just as radiant during the celebration as I did during the ceremony. I wore Jimmy Choo shoes that perfectly complemented my dress. For my earrings, I chose a beautiful family heirloom that held special meaning; my sister had worn them at her wedding. They served as my “something borrowed”. “

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From Nara, our bride: “Each of my bridesmaids had the freedom to choose their dresses from Revelry, as I wanted them to feel comfortable and uniquely beautiful. My Matron and Maids of Honor wore a lovely light blush color, while the other bridesmaids wore a soft desert rose. This thoughtful color palette allowed each of them to stand out without looking too matchy-matchy, celebrating their styles while still harmonizing beautifully together.”

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]From Nara about the groom’s attire:
“Justin looked incredibly sharp in an oxblood suit featuring a satin black lapel, elegantly adorned with a lapel chain. He paired it with classic tuxedo pants, and his outfit was completed with a Ferragamo belt and stylish Louboutin shoes. His ensemble perfectly balanced sophistication and style.”[/field]
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From Nara, our bride: “During the cocktail hour, we had two signature drinks, a margarita, which was mine, and an old fashion that was Justin’s.”

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From Isabella, their wedding photographer: “The florals and decor were a stunning combination of elegance and nature-inspired beauty. The floral arrangements featured lush greenery paired with soft white blooms, creating a timeless and romantic ambiance. The ceremony setup in the garden, with a breathtaking beach view, was highlighted by a floral arrangement that perfectly framed the couple as they exchanged vows. At the reception, the florals continued the theme of natural elegance, enhancing the sophisticated tablescapes with white and blush floral arrangements and delicate gold details. Overall, the decor balanced modern sophistication with natural beauty, creating an atmosphere that was both luxurious and effortlessly romantic.”

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From Isabella, their wedding photographer: “The wedding cake and dessert table, crafted by Lluvia de Azúcar, were true showstoppers that perfectly complemented the sophisticated elegance of the celebration. The cake featured a minimalist design adorned with delicate floral accents, exuding timeless charm. Thoughtful details, such as the couple’s initials subtly incorporated into the cake’s design, added a personal touch. The dessert table was equally enchanting, presenting an array of exquisite treats—macarons, petit fours, and mini tarts—all artfully arranged. Like the cake, some desserts were thoughtfully personalized with Nara and Justin’s initials, making the display feel even more intimate and special.”

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From Nara, our bride: “The officiant for our ceremony was Justin’s dad, which made the experience even more intimate and personal. Having him lead us through our vows added a special warmth and connection that made the day all the more memorable.” From Isabella, their wedding photographer: “The wedding ceremony and cocktail hour were elevated by the melodies of a live band led by the talented harpist Paco Dominguez of Arpason. Their music set a romantic and serene tone, enhancing the beauty of each moment. During the ceremony, the delicate strings of the harp and accompanying instruments created an ethereal ambiance as the couple exchanged vows against the stunning backdrop of the Riviera Maya. As guests transitioned to the cocktail hour, the band effortlessly shifted to a more lively yet sophisticated repertoire, providing the perfect soundtrack to accompany the sunset and the joyful conversations. The harmonious blend of traditional and modern pieces, played with finesse, made every note feel like a reflection of the celebration’s timeless charm and grace. For the reception dinner, guests were serenaded by saxophonist Rafael Carrasco, whose soulful performance added an elegant touch to the evening. His music created a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere as the guests dined, offering a perfect accompaniment to the intimate setting. “

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From Nara, our bride: “We had a glam black-and-white photobooth for our guests during the reception, allowing everyone to capture fun memories from the night.”

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]From Nara, our bride:
“Justin and his fraternity sang the Alpha Phi Alpha hymn, followed by a chant honoring their fraternity.”[/field]
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From Nara, our bride: “To add a special touch, we also had cigar rollers on hand, celebrating Justin’s love for cigars and tying in beautifully with my Cuban heritage.”

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Photography: Isabella Rodriguez Photography | Videography: Frame Wedding Film | Wedding Planning: Weddings Riviera Maya | Floral Design: Pure Love Weddings | Bride's Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Revelry | Makeup & Hair: Zoe Elizabeth Makeup Artist | Cake & Dessert Table: Lluvia de Azúcar | Ceremony & Cocktail Music: Arpason | Ceremony Dress: Martina Liana | Florals & Rentals: Mena Floral | Groom's Belt: Ferragamo | Groom's Shoes: Louboutin | Hand Fans: Tulaka | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Personalized Tequila Bottles: Tequila Don Ramón Personalizado | Photobooth: Pic Me Photobooth | Production: Daniela Velasco | Reception Dress: Essense Of Australia | Resort: Grand Velas Riviera Maya | Saxophone: Rafael Carrasco | Wedding Design & Moodboard: Whimsical Affair Event Design

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Tropical Elegance Meets 70’s Glam on the Athens Riviera


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Trinh and Ange’s wedding was a stunning fusion of cultures, beautifully intertwining the vibrant traditions of Vietnam with the timeless allure of Greek charm. Set along the breathtaking Athenian Riviera, this celebration brought loved ones together from across the globe, with guests traveling from the USA and Greece to witness their love story unfold. The color palette was nothing short of spectacular, a harmonious blend of orange, pink, green, and yellow that perfectly complemented the lush surroundings and radiant joy of the day.

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Erato from 5th Muse drew inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of Trinh, with roots in Vietnam, and Ange, hailing from Greece. This beautiful fusion gave life to a design brimming with tropical florals and vibrant colors, perfectly capturing the essence of their love story. Custom-made tablecloths, crafted to match the stunning stationery by Kurniawan Howijaya, added a layer of elegance to the styling. Every detail, from the “find your seat” display to the exquisite wedding favors, was thoughtfully curated to reflect their unique story. The entire aesthetic exuded the charm of a 70s film, an atmosphere brought to life through the lens of Andreas K. Georgiou’s magnificent photography.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

Trinh was an absolute style queen on her wedding day, pulling off not one, not two, but three fabulous looks! She started with her jaw-dropping wedding gown for the church, a vision of pure elegance that left everyone in awe, paired with glamorous Jimmy Choo heels, of course. For dinner, she switched things up, removing her dress sleeves and rocking a fresh hair and makeup look that was effortlessly chic. But the real show-stopper came at the party, where she turned heads in a flirty, fun short wedding dress, and here’s the playful twist: she swapped her heels for sneakers, ready to hit the dance floor in comfort and style. Trinh was like a swan, gliding through each moment with beauty, grace, and just the right amount of sass!

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bridesmaids’ dresses were a beautiful mustard yellow, one of the main colors of the wedding, adding warmth and elegance to the celebration. The real surprise, however, was their stunning bouquets, designed by the amazing Commeça Fleur. Instead of traditional bouquets, the bridesmaids carried Asian fans adorned with flowers, creating a unique and eye-catching detail that perfectly tied into the wedding’s vibrant and cultural theme!

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

Ange, the groom, looked dashing in a vibrant green suit, perfectly aligned with the wedding’s color palette and exuding a fabulous ’70s vibe like a true star from a classic film. His preparations took place in the luxurious setting of the Four Seasons, adding an air of sophistication to the day. To top it all off, Ange made a grand entrance at the church, arriving in a stunning antique Alfa Romeo, turning heads and setting the tone for a stylish and unforgettable celebration!

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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]

The culinary experience at Trinh and Ange’s wedding was a delightful fusion of flavors, reflecting their cultural heritage. Guests enjoyed a menu that beautifully combined Greek tastes with the vibrant spices and dishes of Asian cuisine, creating a gastronomic journey that perfectly complemented the celebration. The open bar was equally impressive, serving up a selection of expertly crafted cocktails, including the refreshing Mediterranean Breeze, the ever-popular Classic/Spicy Margarita, the sophisticated Perfect GnT#1, the tropical Zombie, and the bold Paper Plane. Every sip and bite added to the unforgettable experience on the stunning Athens Riviera.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Ioulietta from Commeca Fleur brought the wedding’s vision to life with her breathtaking floral designs. Featuring vibrant bird-of-paradise flowers, roses, and beautifully adorned Asian fans, her creations were a true feast for the eyes. The bold, tropical color palette added a magical touch, perfectly complementing the wedding’s fusion of cultures and creating an atmosphere of elegance and joy. Every arrangement was a masterpiece, adding to the unforgettable charm of the day.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The wedding cake was a vision of understated elegance, with a minimalist design adorned with delicate anthurium flowers that tied seamlessly into the vibrant floral theme. Presented on a beautifully crafted custom-made tablecloth, it became a stunning centerpiece that perfectly reflected the couple’s refined taste and attention to detail. Simple yet striking, it was a sweet highlight of an unforgettable celebration.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]The wedding favors were a true reflection of the couple’s thoughtful attention to detail, featuring custom-made designs that matched the beautiful tablecloths. The surprise element? Each guest received an elegant Asian fan as a gift, tying in perfectly with the cultural theme of the celebration. These unique and meaningful favors added a personal touch, leaving guests with a memorable keepsake from the vibrant and stylish wedding on the Athens Riviera.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

A delightful surprise awaited the guests in the form of a 70s-style phone booth, transformed into an audio guest book. This retro-inspired feature invites guests to leave heartfelt messages for the couple, adding a playful yet sentimental touch to the celebration. It perfectly complemented the wedding’s vintage vibes and became a standout detail that everyone adored, leaving Trinh and Ange with timeless memories recorded most creatively.

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Photography: Andreas Georgiou | Videography: Vasilis Kantarakis Films | Event Planning: 5th Muse | Floral Design: Comme ça . fleurs & décor | Invitations: kurniawanhowijaya | Invitations: Kurniawan Ho Wijaya | Reception Venue: Island Art & Taste | Beauty: Frantzeska Koukoula | Flatlays' Mats, and Printables: misspastel.eu | Rentals: Tore | Rentals: Prop - Premium Decor Rentals | Sound & Lighting: Viparties Events DJs & More

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
A Stunning Fall Wedding in Virginia Wine Country at Keswick Vineyards


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

From the bride: Our colors were muted pinks and oranges, mauve, cream, with pops of burgundy and touches of dusty blue.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

From the bride: The visual aesthetic I came in wanting was a modern garden romance with touches of fall but still light and bright. I didn’t want it to be too dark and drab and not too expected with the color palette. There was also an element of fruit I wanted to be incorporated throughout – Which started with the stamps on the invite, a detail included in the favor table, and also part of the reception centerpieces. I feel like we successfully achieved this aesthetic, as my dress was modern romantic. The florals and decor captured a mix of modern romance, but we also added in more rustic touches, too, with wood tones, to help make it warm and seasonal. I wanted some pops of darker tones to bring in the fall vibes. I also really wanted touches of dusty blue (this was a part of the vision from day 1!) However, it didn’t fit with the “warmer” color scheme, so we decided we would do small touches throughout to make it more cohesive. It’s a wedding, so there needed to be some levels of a formal affair, but we didn’t want it to feel too stuffy, so we have some fun touches such as the donut truck and a Polaroid guestbook, with a big focus on the dancing and party! We also did a champagne toast to kick off that part of the night, and make sure our guests knew they were in for a good time! It was so fun to see everything come to life, and it was more spectacular than we could have ever hoped for!

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

From the bride: On Memorial Day weekend in 2022, my parents were visiting from Alabama. I had planned a few dinners and activities so Tom offered to plan our day on Saturday. He told me he scheduled a boat ride for the 4 of us to go from Alexandria, VA to Georgetown. So, as I was getting ready that morning, I noticed he was wearing an outfit he had recently bought. I thought that was interesting, but I didn’t question it. Then, when we arrived at the park in Alexandria where we were supposed to load on the boat, he got down on one knee and popped the question! I think we were both so nervous that we both blacked out for a second and don’t remember quite what he said, but we know I said YES!!!! Then, immediately after, his family pops out of the bushes with champagne and signs and flowers and hugs and the biggest smiles. We were all crying and in shock that we didn’t even realize Tom had also arranged a photographer who was capturing the whole thing. It was the sweetest, most special moment to celebrate with both of our families. Then, Tom kept the surprises going by sharing that we did have a boat ride, but it was just the two of us to celebrate our engagement before we headed to a restaurant where we’d be meeting our friends. It was just the most special day, and Tom did so much planning and preparation (he even sent our moms a full itinerary, including a map!) I know it meant so much for our parents to be there to witness and celebrate it with us.

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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]From the bride: I had tried on numerous dresses, and I was struggling to find one that perfectly fit my vision. I was seeking a design that was both classic and modern, avoiding anything overly feminine while still embodying the essence of a bride. When I tried on the Prophecy dress from NEWWHITE, I instantly knew it was the one. It’s true what they say, you will know the feeling once you’ve found the one![/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

From the bride: As I wanted the florals to stand out against the bridesmaid dresses, I opted for a more neutral color. I knew a stain champagne hue would be chic, timeless, and flattering for all the bridesmaids! I gave the girls the option to choose their preferred dress style, and interestingly enough, each one selected a different style. It was fun to have such variation, and I was so happy that everyone chose the dress they loved and would be comfortable in. We used Revelry for the dresses and had a great experience.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]From the bride: The groomsmen chose a classic and clean black tuxedo look, rented from The Black Tux. They opted for suspenders and no vest, paired with bow ties. To distinguish himself, Tom (the groom) selected shawl lapels (while the groomsmen wore notch lapels), black studs and cufflinks (the groomsmen’s shirts concealed their buttons), a satin diamond-style bow tie (the groomsmen wore classic butterfly bow ties), and loafers (the groomsmen wore oxfords). Each groomsman also had a subtle white pocket handkerchief as the final detail.[/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]

From the bride: For the food, our vision was for seasonal and local, with fun twists from the traditional wedding expectations. Given that we were getting married at a beautiful VA vineyard, we had a wonderful selection of Keswick Vineyards wines. For the specialty his and hers cocktails, we opted for a fall-inspired rosemary-ginger margarita and a revolver made with bourbon, coffee liquor, and orange bitters. For cocktail hour hors d’oeuvres, we chose a Virginia ham biscuit, grilled cheese and tomato soup shooter, mini tuna tartare tacos, and smoked brisket and potato croquettes. For dinner, guests had a choice between herb-crusted bistro steak with a root vegetable pave, lemon and thyme-roasted chicken with pecorino risotto, or a vegetable ratatouille.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

From the bride: For the florals, we wanted to incorporate the colors of the season, but when looking for inspiration, I often found that the fall colors were either way overdone or overly drab. I wanted it to feel seasonal but also include fun colors and interest. We worked with a fabulous florist from Steelcut Flower Co. I explained my preferences with minimal detail, and she took it and created something I could never have imagined! My favorite touch was the ever-so-faded greenery draped across our reception bar. It was such an understated fall touch that looked so natural like it could have just been growing there! I had so much fun with the decor. I feel like in another life, I should’ve been an interior designer. We had a velvet lounge set that blended perfectly with the fall foliage and other decorative elements. We used some fun patterns for our cocktail hour linens, with more subtle linens for the reception (again, to make the florals pop!) Candles are so important for setting the ambiance, and one of the best decisions we made was to use amber uplighting in the tent. We originally didn’t want to use any uplighting as we were worried it might look cheesy. Our planners recommended the amber lights to create a “warm glow,” and they were so right! The tent felt instantly cozy when you walked in because of that detail we almost went without.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

From the bride: We chose a delicious floral imprinted carrot cake from Cake Bloom, a wonderful Charlottesville bakery. Guests also indulged in one of our favorite treats – warm apple cider donuts from Carpe Diem – when taking a reprieve from the dance floor.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

From the bride: We wanted our wedding to be very true to us. We wanted guests to feel that from the moment they arrived at the venue to their exit. So, there were some details sprinkled throughout that we think represent us as a couple and as individuals. For example, on the welcome table, we include pictures of our parents on their wedding days. The ceremony program has a quote from a Tyler Childers song, whom we both love. Our wedding favors were mini jars of apple butter from a farm we visited on one of our early dates.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

From the bride: Additionally, we put together welcome bags with goodies from each state that holds a special place in our hearts – mini cookies from New York (where Tom was born and raised), a bag of peanuts from Alabama (where I was born and raised) and caramel candies from Virginia (where we got engaged and now married!), plus a custom wine stopper since we were getting married at a vineyard. We also had to throw it back to my Southern roots with the bourbon burial. Incorporating those personal details was always a top priority for us!

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

From the bride: A final detail of the night was when the after-party crew made our way to the downtown area to keep the party going. To my surprise, Tom had arranged for our names and wedding date to be displayed on the marquee of the local theatre, which we walked past. I had no idea he had done this, so I was shocked! Although we didn’t have professional photographers at the after-party, I think our friends did a great job of capturing the sweet moments.

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Photography: Sidney Leigh Photography | Cinematography: TLIC Media | Event Planning: Amore Events | Floral Design: Steel Cut Floral Co | Cake: Cakebloom | Invitations: Longest Time Design | Ceremony Venue: Keswick Vineyards | Reception Venue: Keswick Vineyards | Catering: Harvest Moon Catering | DJ: Prime Time Event Group | Transportation: Albemarle And Ambassador Limo | Transportation: Easy Riders Bus Company | Beauty: Avenue 42 | Ceremony & Cocktail Hour Music: The Bloom Trio | Donut Truck: Carpe Donut | Rentals: Argent Events | Rentals: BBJ La Tavola

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
A Classic “Father of the Bride” Inspired Wedding Day at the Bride’s Family Home


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Blue, green, white, black[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

I had originally wanted to go with a much more modern and glamorous vibe. Quickly into planning, I realized I wanted the day to be more authentic to who Grant and I are. We both grew up in smaller Arkansas towns and I wanted the day to be a reflection of the communities that helped raise us. I wanted a backyard garden party that was timeless and classic. Very “father of the bride” vibes, and my planner made my vision come to life perfectly. She was amazing!

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Grant and I met at the beginning of college and instantly became friends. We continued to be friends throughout college, but our senior year was cut short due to COVID. Around this time, we both realized we had feelings for each other. We started dating in June of 2020 and have been in love since. Grant proposed on the U of A campus, the home of many memories.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

I’m sure a lot of girls my age grew up watching “Say Yes to the Dress.” Since I was 10 years old, I’ve always wanted a Monique Llhullier dress. The very first dress I tried on at Maggie Louise was the one. We added buttons, and it could not have been more perfect. My favorite outfit I’ll ever wear!

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]I decided to do a classic black in 3 different styles. Black is so flattering on everyone, and the pictures looked amazing![/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”][/field]
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We decided to serve 5-6 hors d’oeuvres instead of a sit-down meal, and it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. My personal favorite was the crab cake skewers. The food was delicious!

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

From Mason (the bride): The florals and decor completely surpassed my expectations. Our flowers, Tanarah Luxe Floral combined blues and whites for a classic Southern look. I think my favorite part of the design was the dance floor and stage under the sailcloth tent in my childhood home’s backyard. From Kati Mallory (the photographer): I loved the backyard vibes set up by Jessika McCuin Weddings (the planner). The sailcloth tent beside the gorgeous pool created an elegant atmosphere. Twinkle lights were hanging from the tent, and custom bars set up throughout the space that incorporated the prettiest monogram and florals. Around the pool were intimate seating spaces with flowers galore, as well as striped umbrellas to shield guests from the sun, and – my favorite touch – locally made ice cream to help guests cool off in the heat.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The 7-tier cake was insanely beautiful and was decorated with the prettiest sugar flowers. We decided to go with lighter flavors- lemon and strawberry – since we were outdoors in June.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

The bride’s father passed away a few years ago, so there were special touches throughout the day that included him. For example, Mason had a photo of him on her bouquet, so he was with her the entire day. During the reception, one of Mason’s dad’s best friends gave a toast from Mason’s dad’s perspective. It was one of the most touching moments I’ve ever witnessed at a wedding, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

There was a cigar bar at the reception for guests to enjoy, and it was a big hit! Since the wedding was outside, many guests partook in a celebratory cigar as the reception and dancing happened under sparkling lights!

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]At the end of the evening, surprise boxes of pizza were delivered to the guests before they headed home! It was a fun way to end the night![/field]
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Photography: Kati Mallory Fine Art Photography | Videographer: Wanderbloom Films | Floral Design: Tanarah -Luxe Floral and Event Styling | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Cake: Michelle Mayer | Ceremony Venue: Searcy First Methodist Church | Reception Venue: Bride's Family Home | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Azazie | DJ: Lost Wax Band | Beauty: Lauren Pike | Beauty: whiplash beauty | Custom Installs: Central Arkansas Entertainment | Ice Cream: Loblolly Creamery | Planning: Jessica McCuin Weddings | Rentals: Eventology

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Rainy Morning Turned Perfect Spring Wedding at Montecito Country Club


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

This April wedding featured a vibrant Spring color palette. Though many colors could be found in the florals, pink, blue, and green were the standout hues of the day.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

This wedding design was inspired by the season. Spring was celebrated with whimsical floral designs, vintage floral prints, and even faux butterflies in the cocktail hour centerpieces.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

“On December 30th, 2022, Curran surprised me with a horse-drawn sleigh ride at Bears Ranch in Durango, Colorado, near his family’s mountain home. As the sleigh glided toward a stunning frozen lake, Curran guided us out to take in the breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. Then, in the quiet serenity of the moment, Curran slowly got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. It was cold, but I hardly noticed as I slipped off my glove for him to place the ring on my finger. On the ride back to the ranch, we celebrated with champagne and captured the joy of the occasion with photos, thanks to the photographer Curran had thoughtfully arranged. As we returned, I was completely overwhelmed to find both my family and Curran’s waiting to congratulate us—such a heartfelt surprise. It was truly a magical and unforgettable day.”

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“I had the pleasure of working with Kim Click at Stanley Korshak Bridal Salon in Dallas, Texas, to find my dream wedding dress. I envisioned something traditional, featuring Chantilly lace, yet ethereal with a hint of subtle sparkle. That vision came to life when I discovered the Anne gown by Maria Farbinni. The moment I put it on, the intricate details and overall aesthetic reminded me of my mother’s wedding dress from April 1983, and I knew instantly it was the one. The gown featured a timeless fit-and-flare silhouette with a sweetheart neckline, and I chose to elevate the look with a custom lace overskirt for the ceremony. This thoughtful addition by Maria Farbinni allowed me to showcase two distinct looks throughout the day. To complete my bridal ensemble, I selected the ivory Jimmy Choo Saeda pumps, which paired beautifully with the gown, adding the perfect finishing touch.”

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

“Since we had a spring outdoor wedding near the coast, I chose light blue as the focal color to seamlessly complement the sky, florals, and ocean backdrop. I collaborated with Bella Bridesmaids in the Dallas Design District to select the perfect Amsale gowns for my bridesmaids in a stunning sky-blue shade. The dresses were elegant, and each of my bridesmaids looked beautiful!”

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]”Curran collaborated with Suit Supply in Dallas to design a custom-made tuxedo, featuring his initials and our wedding date elegantly embroidered on the inside. He completed his look with Allen Edmonds tuxedo shoes, Texas flag cufflinks, and his grandfather’s vintage Rolex Presidential watch—a meaningful and special touch for our wedding day. The groomsmen complemented his style by renting their tuxedos from The Black Tux.”[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

Guests enjoyed a delicious three-course plated dinner. The grilled “Prime” New York steak was the crowd favorite. After getting out on the dance floor, Late-Night Bites were served alongside a tray passed espresso martinis to keep the party going!

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

After a rainy morning, the sun came out just in time for the ceremony. Vibrant color-blocked flowers made up a lush floral aisle and arch. Having just been rained on, the flowers seemed to be brighter than ever! Walking into Montecito Club’s ballroom was an awe-filled moment. Tons of wisteria flowers hung down from the large chandeliers, hovering over the shimmering blue tables, and a dance floor with Hollie & Curran’s monogram. Linens, chairs, and table settings from Theoni elevated the ballroom and brought the couple’s design vision to life. The table settings had napkins customized with the couple’s monogram, and water colored menus graced the plates.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

The cake was another monogram moment. Baked by Lelé Pâtisserie, the four-tiered cake was a work of art inside and out. The monogram was meticulously piped on the front, and the Tyler Speier Events floral team garnished it with lovely florals. The tiers alternated between two flavors, Double Chocolate Cake filled with Raspberry Swirl and Vanilla Bean Cake filled with Strawberry Swirl, both frosted with Vanilla Bean meringue buttercream.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

This Spring wedding took place at The Montecito Country Club, showing off its dreamy ocean view at the ceremony and a romantic ballroom full of florals at the reception. Setting up this wedding was quite the adventure – we had an unexpected rainstorm roll in that morning, and it rained right up until it was time for the ceremony to start! Thankfully, the sun came out just in time for a beautiful outdoor ceremony. The day was captured by the talented Shannon Skloss, who used the rainy morning to take the most vogue photos! Colorful florals by our TSE team, luxury rentals from Theoni, and custom paper goods by Katherine Jezek Designs and K Designs, all made for a beautiful wedding. Despite the rain, the day went so smoothly, thanks to our peaceful, joyful, and flexible team of vendors!

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]As this was a destination wedding, the guests were welcomed to town with cute welcome bags, overflowing with locally sourced treats and gifts assembled and hand-delivered to the Santa Barbara Inn by our TSE team.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

Hollie and Curran personalized their stir sticks, bar signs, and even cocktail napkins with a watercolor of their adorable pooch, Jagger.

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Photography: Shannon Skloss | Videographer: Miguel Garcia Studios | Event Design: Tyler Speier Events | Event Planning: Tyler Speier Events | Floral Design: Tyler Speier Events | Cake: Lele Patisserie | Invitations: Katherine Jezek Design | Catering: Montecito Club | Lighting: Bella Vista Designs, Inc | Transportation: Santa Barbara Trolley | Vintage Car: Hollywood Classic Cars | Wedding Venue: Montecito Club | Beauty: Samara Beauty | Music: Downbeat La | Photo Booth: Open Air Photo Booth | Rentals: Theoni Collection

A Quintessential Lake Town Wedding at Windridge Estate


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

The wedding’s color palette featured a timeless combination of white, cream, and subtle pops of blue, creating a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere. The focus was mainly on soft neutrals, which brought a sense of classic serenity to the outdoor setting.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Our vision for the wedding was deeply inspired by our hometown of Cazenovia, a picturesque lake town in upstate New York, where we both grew up and fell in love. We wanted our guests to experience the charm of the place that means so much to us, so we incorporated unique elements tied to Cazenovia throughout the celebration. From a stunning watercolor painting of Cazenovia Lake used on the envelope liners and the front of the bar to a custom dance floor designed to evoke the feel of an outdoor patio, each detail was crafted to reflect the beauty of an upstate summer. My husband’s Italian heritage was honored through limoncello shots for every guest, accompanied by the toast “per cent’anni,” meaning “for 100 years.” The number 11:11 holds personal significance for us, so we designed our escort wall with the phrase “Our Wish Came True,” symbolizing our shared belief in angel numbers and how our prayers for a soulmate were answered. The overall aesthetic seamlessly blended the beauty of Cazenovia with meaningful, personal touches.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

On June 3rd, 2023, a significant day that marked exactly 12 years since Ben and Kathleen first exchanged their heartfelt ‘I love you’s, a momentous proposal unfolded. Knowing that Kathleen was not an easy person to surprise, Ben, along with the entire family, meticulously crafted a plan that had been in the making for months. The day was originally set for a Broadway show outing with Ben’s grandparents, beginning with lunch in the city. However, as they were en route to the city, Ben’s mom called with an urgent need to return home to retrieve Meme’s (Ben’s grandma) forgotten medicine, promising to meet up with them at the show later. After lunch at City Winery, Ben guided Kathleen to the rooftop, where he explained that there was a special installation by his company in the park up there, so they had to check it out. As they reached the rooftop, with the sprawling cityscape of NYC as their backdrop, Ben knelt on one knee, and with a heart full of love, he asked Kathleen to be his life partner. Their joyous moment was further heightened as Teddy and Bailey joined them for photographs, capturing the essence of their love. The surprises didn’t end there, though. Ben had orchestrated a grand celebration, with their entire family and friends waiting to join the festivities. The party kicked off and never seemed to stop as they danced the night away, celebrating their love until they could no longer stand. It was a day filled with love, surprises, and the promise of a lifetime together.

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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

For the church ceremony, I wore a stunning Galia Lahav gown, embodying classic elegance. My main wedding dress was a show-stopping creation by Berta paired with Rene Caovilla heels and Verstolo jewelry. For the after-party, I slipped into something fun from Retrofete, and for the welcome party, I chose a chic look from Bronx and Banco. Each outfit was carefully selected to reflect the different parts of our celebration, blending timeless beauty with modern style.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

My bridesmaids each selected their style of black dresses, adding a touch of individual flair while maintaining a cohesive look. Some of them rented from Janet Mandel, a boutique specializing in designer rentals. It was important to me that they felt comfortable and fabulous in whatever they chose. My mother also looked radiant in a Zuhair Murad gown, bringing a touch of haute couture to the day.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

Ben looked incredibly sharp in a custom suit from Suit Supply. His tailored look was classic, perfectly fitting for our special day. Our dogs also had their custom-made outfits designed by Fur Rescue Fashions, making sure even our furry family members were stylish!

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

We worked closely with our caterers to create a menu that felt uniquely ‘us.’ Our signature cocktails were inspired by special moments in our lives: the “Romo Ranch Water,” a nod to our love for Aspen, and “Leena’s Lemonade Blueberry Spritz,” a refreshing favorite. The highlight of the night was the wine, specially sourced from our family winery, Benziger Winery. Guests were greeted with a trio of food displays—charcuterie with Mediterranean vegetables, a seafood spread featuring colossal shrimp and ceviche, and a selection of hors d’oeuvres like baozi, caviar parfaits, and Southern fried chicken on buttermilk biscuits. For dinner, guests had the choice of bacon-wrapped sirloin, Statler chicken, roasted halibut, or a vegetable terrine paired with a risotto cake and grilled vegetables. We also served gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches late at night for those wanting a comforting bite after dancing.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Since our reception was held outdoors in a tent, florals were key in creating the lush, romantic feel I envisioned. We went with an abundance of white and cream blooms, which added softness and elegance to the space. The tables were dressed in neutral linens, accented with soft blue plates and gold and silver cutlery, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. Elevated floral arrangements and candles filled the tent, adding warmth and beauty to the evening.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Our wedding cake was a simple but elegant design in soft blue and white with minimal florals, which complemented the overall aesthetic. However, the real star of the dessert scene was our dessert bar, featuring an array of sweets like cake pops, mini pies, cookies, and brownies, offering something delicious for every guest to enjoy.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

Music played a huge role in our day, from the ceremony to the reception. I walked down the aisle to a beautiful string quartet rendition of “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri, and we exited the ceremony to “Love Story” by Taylor Swift, which felt so fitting for our journey together. The string quartet continued to play during cocktail hour, giving it a “Bridgerton” feel. For the reception, we opted for a DJ accompanied by an electric violinist and saxophone player, which gave the night an energetic, concert-like atmosphere. One of the most memorable moments was when Ben and I performed “Shallow” from A Star Is Born for our guests, a karaoke favorite of ours. My brother officiated the ceremony, and we had both our mothers read a poem, including “Wedding Poem” by Whitney Hanson, which added a personal and emotional touch.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Weekend-Long Celebration: We wanted the wedding to be more than just one day, so we planned an entire weekend of activities. It kicked off with a church ceremony for close friends and family on Thursday, followed by a rehearsal dinner with an Italian theme, reflecting my new last name. Friday was the big day with an outdoor lake ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, and a Great Gatsby- themed speakeasy after-party. The weekend wrapped up with brunch and a lake day, where we had 15 boats tied together for a relaxed and fun-filled Saturday.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Speakeasy After-Party: The after-party had a Great Gatsby-inspired theme, with a finished barn transformed into a speakeasy, complete with red up-lighting and Gatsby-style hats. It was a magical and fun way to end the evening, and the food kept the energy high throughout the night.

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Photography: Laura Rose | Videographer: Hart to Heart Media | Event Planning: Shannon Wellington Wedding | Floral Design: Beck and Forth Co | Wedding Dress: Berta Bridal | Reception Venue: Windridge Estate | Catering: Diamon | Hair & Makeup: Glam Squad Syracuse | Entertainment: More Than Music | Ceremony Music: Craig Scott Entertainment | Transportation: SS Limousines | Transportation: Big Ds Limousine | Transportation: Leather Stocking Trolley | Tent: Morris Tent Rentals | Brides Makeup: Megan Bella Beauty | Content Creator: Follow The Bride | Dessert: Sugar Blossom Cake Shop | Floor Wrap: FM Events Production | Funiture Rentals: Total Rentals | Ice Luge: The Ice Farm | Landscape Lighting: OLP | Rentals: Brown Built Rentals | Rentals: Rentals to Go | Rentals: Petunia Rose | Stationery & Signage: Holly Winnie Calligraphy | Tabletop Rentals: Petunia Rose | furniture rentals: Brown Built Rentals

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Colorful Coastal Wedding at Kiawah Island Golf Resort


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”The Inspiration”]

Kiawah Island was the heart of this styled shoot’s inspiration. The team, led by The Styled Society and hosted by Katherine & Tyler, wanted to create a colorful coastal celebration that captured the area’s natural beauty and Southern charm.

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]All pastel colors, such as peach, light blue, light pink, yellow, lavender, white, and greenery[/field]
[field title=”The Venue”]

The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort provided a stunning backdrop for the shoot. An elevated tent created the perfect setting for the outdoor celebration.

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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]The bride wore a textured a-line gown from The White Magnolia, featuring a sweetheart neckline and detachable off-the-shoulder sleeves that added a romantic touch. She completed her look with a Michael Addison Bridal veil and SJ Bailey Co. earrings.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Party”]

The bridesmaids brought the pastel color scheme to life in peach, light blue, and purple gowns. The groomsmen looked sharp in grey suits from Jim’s Formal Wear.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Intrigued Design & Events created a gorgeous ambiance with help from Curated Event Rentals. LIT Charleston transformed the space with elegant lighting and drapery. The Luxe & Co. designed an eye-catching escort card display and bar that became focal points of the event. Stradley Davidson Linens added blue and green floral linens that matched the lounge seating pillows perfectly. Moonstruck Florals’ colorful, textured arrangements tied everything together beautifully.[/field]
[field title=”Favorite Design Element”]

The escort card wall and bar were standout elements of the day! The escort card wall featured personalized fans for each guest, perfect for a sunny South Carolina afternoon. The bar incorporated the same green hue and a chic monogram that appeared throughout the event on items like napkins and towels.

[/field]
[field title=”Tips To Pull Off The Look”]Don’t be afraid to play with color and texture! What made this shoot so stunning was how the team embraced a bold color scheme and added textured florals. The colors blended beautifully and tied together all the different patterns from the day.[/field]
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Photography: Rachel Linder Photography | Event Design: Intrigue Design & Events | Event Planning: The Styled Society | Event Planning: Intrigue Design & Events | Floral Design: Moonstruck Florals | Wedding Dress: The White Magnolia | Wedding Dress: Michael Addison Bridal | Wedding Dress: SJ Bailey Co. | Cake: Baked To a T | Invitations: La Papeterie Design | Men's Attire: Jim's Formal Wear | Wedding Venue: Kiawah Island Sanctuary Resort | Beauty: Silhouette on Site | Engagement Ring Designer: Charleston Rings | Rentals: Curated Events | Rentals: The Luxe & Co. | Rentals: Classic Planning and Design Co. | Rentals: Emerson James Rental | Rentals: Stradley Davidson Linen Collective

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
An Al Fresco Celebration at Château De La Napoule in Cannes


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]White / Antic pink / Gold[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

A welcome party on the beach in Cannes, a beautiful ceremony at Château de la Napoule and an exquisite dinner “Al Fresco” , that’s exactly what the bride and groom had in mind for their wedding on the French Riviera. Based on these vibes, Aava Wedding designed and created beautiful and delicate decors with white, antic pink and gold.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]The bride wears an incredible and elegant Pronovias gown.[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

Catherine & Co created amazing cocktails for the guests, and the catering was perfectly managed by the talented Pavillon Traiteur.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The Aava Wedding team designs stunning and elegant weddings with a timeless style and soft white and antique pink flowers sublimated by Laly Rose Decoration.

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The Wedding cake is presented in front of a memorable firework display, purely breathtaking!

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Photography: Thomas Audiffren | Wedding cake: Emma's Cupcakes | Stationery: Crème de papier | Ceremony Venue: Chateau De La Napoule | Make up: Laury G | Hair: Julien Matha | Band: Vibes Music | Beach party venue: Lucia Cannes | Filmmaker: Jino Agnelli | Firework: EFC Artifices | Flowers, rental and decoration: Laly Rose | Planning & design: AAVA WEDDING | Seond shooters (Photo & video): Amour.etc | Sound & Light: DX Event | Tableware: Maison options | Tableware: Options Nice

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
How to Plan a Wedding on a Budget—Without Losing the Magic

As Emmy Award-winning actress Niecy Nash once said, “Falling in love was the easy part; planning a wedding—yikes!” If you’ve ever tried to balance a champagne vision with a sparkling water budget, you know exactly what she means.

Planning a chic, heartfelt wedding without emptying your bank account? Yes, it’s possible—and honestly, it can be a lot more meaningful that way. Between choosing a venue, debating whether to hire a planner, trimming the guest list, and asking yourself, “How do we make this look luxe without going overboard?”—you’re not alone.

The good news? Elegant weddings don’t require lavish spending. With smart choices and a bit of creativity, you can create a day that’s stylish, personal, and well within reach. Below, we’ve laid out practical steps to help you plan a celebration that’s every bit as beautiful as your love story—without blowing your budget.

Set a Realistic Budget (Seriously.)

Before anything else, take a deep breath and decide what you can actually afford to spend. It’s tempting to chase Pinterest-worthy dreams, but the goal is to walk away married and financially at ease—not wondering where all your savings went.

Review your income, savings, and priorities as a couple. Once you know your limit, stick to it. Trust us, your future selves will thank you.

Rent the Glam

From designer gowns to dreamy tableware, many of the details that make a wedding feel upscale can be rented for a fraction of the cost. Dresses, décor, furniture—even rings—can be borrowed for the day.

Renting allows you to achieve a high-end look without the commitment (or storage headaches) afterward. Chic and savvy? That’s the vibe.

Keep the Guest List Close

An intimate celebration doesn’t just help your budget—it elevates the entire experience. Smaller guest lists mean more intentional moments, better conversation, and less pressure to entertain a crowd.

Plus, fewer people means more room in the budget to focus on the things that matter: good food, thoughtful décor, and meaningful connection.

DIY—with Style

DIY gets a bad rap, but it doesn’t have to scream “craft project gone wrong.” Handwritten menus, custom signage, or thoughtfully made invitations add charm and character—especially when done with care.

Not sure where to start? TikTok and YouTube are treasure troves of inspiration (and hacks!) from real couples who made it work.

Choose a Venue with Built-In Charm

Ditch the ballroom. Think: botanical gardens, cozy courtyards, historic libraries, or local art galleries. These spaces often come with unique architecture, lush backdrops, or moody lighting—so you can skip the over-the-top florals and extra frills.

Bonus: If you or your partner has a personal tie to the space (like your alma mater), you might even score a discount.

Make It Personal: Invite Friends to Perform

Who needs a pricey band when you’ve got talented friends? Ask a musical guest to serenade your ceremony or sing for your first dance. It’s intimate, meaningful, and totally budget-friendly.

And for a twist later in the evening? A karaoke setlist never fails to bring down the house.

Create Moments, Not Trinkets

Instead of favors that get left behind, think experiences. A live sketch artist capturing guests in real time. A vintage typewriter poet. A flower bar where everyone creates their own bouquet.

These unexpected, interactive moments are often what guests remember most—and they don’t have to cost much to feel magical.

Stay Hands-On

Planning a wedding on a budget means rolling up your sleeves. It’s tempting to outsource everything, but if you’re skipping a planner, be prepared to get involved. Schedule weekly check-ins, do your research, compare prices, and ask for help when needed.

With teamwork and intention, it’s entirely possible to craft a celebration that’s both affordable and unforgettable.

The Takeaway?

A stylish, elegant wedding isn’t about how much you spend—it’s about how much love, care, and creativity you put into it. Prioritize what matters to you, plan ahead, and embrace the idea that beautiful doesn’t have to mean expensive.

After all, your wedding isn’t just about one day. It’s about beginning a life together—with intention, joy, and maybe a little karaoke.


When Taking a Risk With Bold Wedding Colors Pay Off in a Major Way at Faena Miami Beach


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Pink, Orange, Emerald Green[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Our wedding day was bright, fun, and bold. We wanted it to feel like you were in a tropical location, on vacation, but still have an elegant flair to it. We took a risk with the bright pink and orange colors, but we felt it worked perfectly for a destination such as Miami Beach. Our venue had a Latin flair to it, as it is designed by an Argentinian hotelier, and therefore, we wanted to work off this vibe. I wanted our guests to come to Miami and celebrate and party for an entire weekend. I wanted them to feel like they were on vacation and not feel obligated to come to “yet another wedding”. We personalized each detail of our event, from hand-written cards in our welcome bags to customized hats and accessories. While it was truly one of the most fun weekends of our lives, we also wanted it to be elegant and classy and for us to maintain certain traditions, which included our Catholic mass and our cultural dances.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Since my father’s side is from Greece, Patrick and I have spent many summers vacationing there. It has now become our favorite place in the world. I had a feeling the proposal was coming, but truly had NO idea when, so I decided to wear white for most of the summer, expecting it to happen “any day”. On the ONE day, I decided to not wear white, and black instead, Pat popped the question. He tricked me into going to Athens to a hotel my sister always raved about, and planned for us to go to a fun club on the beach. I dressed the part, in heels and all, only to be completely fooled and brought on a helicopter ride, overlooking the iconic Athens Riviera. Most people know I am terrified of flying, so I knew Patrick wouldn’t dare to propose to me during this activity. I still had no idea what was to come until we landed at the Four Seasons Astir Palace. We took a golf cart to a gorgeous cliff where champagne was waiting, nd Patrick popped the question. Hiding in the bushes were our friends from our village in Greece, who are professional photographers. They captured the most amazing photos, and then my family and some friends met us for the most beautiful sunset dinner at the famous Matsuhisa. In true Greek fashion, we then ended the night on the beach at a nightclub on the Rivieraallee, Island, and we danced until sunrise. It was the most magical surprise of my life.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

The name of my wedding dress was Versailles by Monique Lhuillier. It was purchased in New Jersey at White House Bridal. I am very indecisive, and I had tried on almost 40 dresses at that point. I was the last of three sisters to get married, and both my sisters wore custom Christian Siriano dresses and looked stunning. I knew I wanted something elegant, timeless, and ballgown, but with an extra “something”. Versailles was exactly that; with the applique handsewn floral designs and the corset top, it felt just right. Once the owner Stacey, brought out the gloves to go with it, I knew it was perfect for me. I wore a custom Monique royal veil in the church, and then after my first dance and my father-daughter dance, I took the gloves off so I could feel comfortable.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

Thankfully, I listened to my Mom when she told me to go bold. I was apprehensive at first to have my girls wearing bright pinks and oranges, mainly because there were 16 of them, but they looked incredible. I gave the bridesmaids options of 4-5 dresses and randomly chose their color of either pink or orange. I chose their dresses from Miss Circle, which is located in Soho, NYC, and also online. My two sisters were my Matrons of Honor, and they wore custom Fuschia ball gowns. Everyone looked so gorgeous.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

The wedding day was black tie, and therefore, all of the men wore black tuxedos. They used a company called The Black Tux. This website also had in-person stores in NYC and allowed the guys to rent or buy their tuxes. They all looked amazing! My husband’s look was from Suit Supply. He wore a black tuxedo and Tom Ford shoes that I bought him for the special day. He customized his tux by putting our wedding date on the inside collar of the tux jacket.

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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]

My family is Greek and Italian, and we are from the NYC area, therefore, food is EVERYTHING at the wedding. We started the cocktail hour with a raw bar, which included lobster, oysters, clams, shrimp, and mussels. We also had a sushi station, which had a variety of our favorite rolls. We had a carving station with delicious prime rib. We then had a pasta station, with our take of Carbone’s spicy rigatoni, as well as a pesto selection. We had an antipasti and charcuterie station with delicious meats and cheese selections. In addition to a Dim Sum and buns station. For the passed Hors d’oeuvres, we had Spicy Tuna, Yuzu Tobiko with Spicy Aioli on a Taro Chip, a New Zealand Lamb Chop, Short Rib Mini Tacos with Avocado Salsa Verde, Pickled Red Onions, and Short Rib Empanadas with Chimichurri Aioli. We had a full ultra premium bar from the start of cocktail hour through our after party. This included our signature drinks of a Dirty Martini and a spicy Margarita, as well as Espresso martinis. We then proceeded to the main event, where the guests were greeted with glasses of champagne as they found their seats. We started the evening with Local Farmed Wild Arugula, Strawberries with Marcona Almonds, Organic Parmesan, and Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette. Our next dish was an Italian Porcini Risotto. Followed by an entree choice of Chicken Breast with Yucca Puree, Black Bean Relish and a Cilantro Emulsion, Braised Galbi Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Whipped Potato, Broccolini, and a Natural Jus Reduction or a Branzino a la Plancha with White Bean Ragout, with Artichoke Olive Barigoule, Chorizo, and Roasted Tomato Vinaigrette. We then had our 7-tier cake, which was Cookies and Cream with Blackout Chocolate Cake, White Chocolate Mousse, and Cookie crumbles. And addition, we had a Venetian hour, which included cookies, cakes, macarons, and ice cream. Once the main party was over, we walked over to the Amphitheater of our venue and parted after. We had McDonald’s Big Macs, fries, and chicken nuggets passed out, as this is my favorite fast food ever. In addition, we had flatbread pizzas, mini truffle sliders, grilled cheese, chicken, and waffles. We ended up extending the after party to go until 4:00 am!!!

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

We knew that we had a blank canvas to work with at the Faena Forum. It is essentially a white space with really high ceilings. We worked with the best Miami floral design team, Petal Production, who was highly recommended by our wedding planner, Mayrelis from Elite Planning. We customized each aspect of the wedding, from the cocktail hour bar and gold high top “tables” to the greenery and bright boxes topped with floral arrangements, where our seating arrangements were. We didn’t want anything to be “typical”. Instead of a place card, we had each name written on colorful boxes, where ballerinas danced and a violinist and harpist played, as guests looked for their name. They were then led up a floral-wrapped staircase into the Forum. We then had our focal point be the “Tree of Life”, which was a giant floral tree that was in the center of our wrap around, green velvet bar. This was my favorite part of the room. This split the room from where the guests ate to the dance floor. We opted to have a circular green dance floor, which I did not expect to look as good as it did. I thank Brittany from Petal Production for convincing me to step out of my comfort zone here. We had over 325 guests and therefore had to mix round tables with two large, long royal tables. The Royal tables had green table tops, which matched the dancefloor, and had a long cascade of floral arrangements which wont down the center and draped to the floor. The chairs were green velvet with gold. On the round tables, our centerpieces varied from high, bright florals to low, clear vases with individual bright flowers. It was incredible. We then had florals that projected onto the wall, which somehow matched the florals of my dress. We had satellite bars in the back corners of the ro so that no one had to ever wait for a drink.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Our wedding planner, Mayrelis of Elite Planning, knew Miami best and led us in the right direction with Gabriela Bergoderi, who made the most amazing sweets. We had Aroma Espresso of Miami set up the entire night with an espresso and cappuccino station, they also made the espresso martinis. We then had treats which included pistachio cannolis, alfajores, brownies, macarons, and cookies, amongst other treats,

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

We wanted to have many people feel included in our wedding events, and we knew we wanted there to be many toasts and speeches. Throughout the three days, we had various people speak. On our first night, our welcome party, Pat’s dad gave a toast to us, which was both heartfelt and funny. On day two, we wanted it to be more of a “roast” and asked some of our best friends to speak. I asked four of my girlfriends, who came up with an incredible roast for both of us. Pat asked two of his three best men to do the same. One of his best me does stand-up comedy for fun and truly had the crowd in tears. For our wedding ceremony, we wanted to include two readings that meant something to us. We chose Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Song of Solomon 8:6-7 “Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm; for love is strong as death, passion fierce as the grave. Its flashes are flashes of fire, a raging flame. Many waters cannot quench love, neither can floods drown it.” My cousin Samantha and Patrick’s close family friend Brint read these at the church. During our wedding, my dad gave his last Father of the Bride speech, which had us all in tears, and then both of my sisters gave Matron of Honor Speeches. Patrick’s third Best Man, who came from Australia, gave the final speech of the night. We were very particular about the music we chose, as we both LOVE music. For the ceremony, I walked down the aisle with my father to the traditional Bridal chorus. We then chose to have a string quarter play “Always” by Gavin James as our guests were receiving communion. This song had us both in tears. We had the most incredible live group, called Songs from Space, perform during our cocktail hour. This included a singer, violin, guitar, and piano. They played remixes of some of our favorites, which included “Paradise”, “Tennessee Whiskey”, “Wake Me Up”, and “Higher Love”. Guests loved hearing these remixes. After the cocktail hour, guests entered into the forum where they were greeted by a 12 piece band. I am so happy that we went with Tropics Entertainment, Remix the band. They brought down the house. They nailed every single song, and we were very specific about do’s and don’ts. We did not want any top 100 Bruno Mars or Taylor Swift songs to be played at the wedding. But instead include favorites of our familie, such as Prince, Meatloaf and Celine Dion. Patrick and I did a non-traditional first dance to Vivir Mi Vida by Marc Anthony, and we invited the crowd to join in. We had the sax, the trumpet, and he drums, and it was the best way to start the night. I then danced with my dad to the same song, we danced at my communion party and sweet 16, which is Elvis Presley’s “Falling in Love”. The entire room was in tears. It was a very emotional moment. Patrick then danced with his mom to Coldplay’s Yellow, and it was absolutely beautiful. We ended the night with a DJ for the afterparty, and it felt like being in Mykonos. The DJ was Event Factor, and they were incredible, allowing my brother-in-law, who DJs part-time in NYC, to join in with them. We had the most epic night.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

We wanted to have three days of events, that were all different from each other, but brought together all of our guests, who came from over 10 different countries. We started the weekend with a Cuban themed welcome party, with a latin trio, cuban cigar rollers, fedoras and an Hora Loca hour.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Instead of a Sunday morning brunch, which we knew we wouldn’t wake up for after our wedding, we opted for a beach party. I think this was Patrick’s favorite event. Petal Production set up an incredible customized beach set. We had oyster shuckers, mixologists, a DJ booth made of beach balls, a lifeguard stand made of palm leaves. We had the best weather that day and couldn’t have asked for a more fun crew. Our wedding was the best weekend of our lives, and it couldn’t have been possible without our family and friends who traveled so far for us. Being the last of three sisters to get married, I had big shoes to fill, and Patrick was the first of four to get married. This was such a special moment for us and both of our families. We are so grateful to our parents, siblings, and vendors for this weekend. The Lockharts captured every single detail so perfectly, I often find myself looking back on photos and just smiling from ear to ear.

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Photography: TheLockharts | Videography: TheLockharts | Event Planning: Elite Planning Firm, LLC | Florist: Petal Productions | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Reception Venue: Faena Miami Beach | Hair + Makeup: Kristen Estrella | Lighting: Event Factor | Band: Tropics Entertainment | After Party DJ: DJ Conor Watkins | Beach Party Venue: Faena Miami Beach | Bridal Party Hair + Makeup: Vavavoom Artistry | Cocktail Hour Band: Songs from Space | Dress Boutique: White House Bride | Sationery: Nicole Marie Paper Co | Welcome Party Venue: Strawberry Moon at the Goodtime Hotel

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Blending Contemporary Design With Old World Romance at Palácio De Seteais


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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

The wedding color palette was a harmonious blend of soft ivory, blush, and sage green, creating a dreamy and romantic ambiance. These colors were meticulously woven into every detail, from the florals to the stationery and the bridesmaids’ dresses, ensuring a cohesive and elegant aesthetic.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The design vision for Greta and Sebastian’s wedding was centered around timeless elegance with a modern romantic twist. Hosted at the enchanting Palácio de Seteais, the celebration embraced the grandeur of 18th-century European architecture while incorporating contemporary elements like minimalist decor and bespoke details. The couple wanted the day to feel intimate yet opulent, with lush florals, gilded accents, and a candlelit dinner that gave the evening a magical glow. A sense of effortless sophistication and charm permeated every aspect of the event.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

The proposal story of Greta and Sebastian has not been publicly disclosed. However, given Sebastian’s career as a commercial airline pilot from Portugal, it is easy to imagine that his creativity and connection to travel played a significant role. Greta, a New York-based model and the founder of her own jewelry brand, Greta Louise, undoubtedly experienced a proposal as unique and magical as their love story.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Greta embarked on an extensive search for the perfect wedding dress, sharing the process with her 500,000+ TikTok followers. “When I started showing wedding dresses on TikTok, a lot of girls resonated with it. It made them excited even if they weren’t a bride-to-be,” she explains. Ultimately, Greta chose a custom Kim Kassas Couture gown, a masterpiece of detailed craftsmanship. The dress featured delicate embroidery and hand-sewn embellishments that subtly sparkled under the light. Designed to highlight Greta’s natural grace, it had a form-fitting bodice and a flowing train that added an ethereal touch to her look. She completed her ensemble with a dramatic veil by Boutique de Voile, intricately embroidered with floral motifs that beautifully matched the wedding’s botanical theme.

For the welcome party, Greta opted for a more relaxed yet glamorous look, wearing a silver slip dress designed by Lauren Wells of L. Wells. The elegant and minimalist design of the dress perfectly complemented the lively atmosphere of the evening, allowing her to shine effortlessly as she and Sebastian celebrated with their loved ones. This second outfit reflected her sophisticated taste while embracing the joyful and informal nature of the event.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bridesmaids were dressed in flowing blush-toned gowns, designed to complement the soft and romantic wedding palette. The dresses were chosen for their airy silhouettes and delicate details, allowing each bridesmaid to feel comfortable and elegant. Ari Fournier, Cole Sprouse’s girlfriend, was among the bridesmaids.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Sebastian and his groomsmen opted for tailored dark blue suits crafted by Affari, a renowned Portuguese brand that has been part of Sebastian’s family tradition for over 40 years. The suits, paired with matching vests and ties, reflected a classic and refined style that complemented the grandeur of the Tivoli Palácio de Seteais. Completing the ensemble, Sebastian wore a pair of elegant Louboutin shoes, adding a touch of luxury and modern flair. This timeless look added an air of elegance and sophistication to the occasion, seamlessly blending with the neoclassical charm of the venue.[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]The culinary experience was a highlight of the celebration, featuring a curated menu that celebrated both Portuguese and international flavors. Guests enjoyed an elegant sit-down dinner with courses like bacalhau à brás, tender slow-cooked lamb, and perfectly grilled picanha and filet. Signature cocktails included a refreshing basil-infused gin and tonic, alongside a bespoke champagne cocktail named after the couple. The wine list featured premium selections from Portugal’s Douro Valley, elevating the dining experience to unforgettable heights.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The floral arrangements, designed collaboratively by Decorelle and Audrey Hilfiger, were a true highlight of the event. The ceremony featured a breathtaking cascading floral arch adorned with lush white blooms, including roses, peonies, and greenery, creating an elegant and romantic backdrop. At the reception, low floral centerpieces by Audrey Hilfiger adorned the tables, interspersed with gold candleholders and silk runners in soft hues. The decor also included embroidered napkins with guests’ names, replacing traditional place cards and adding a personal touch. Candlelight enhanced the ambiance, seamlessly blending with the opulent yet understated aesthetic of the Palácio de Seteais. Each detail was thoughtfully curated to bring the couple’s refined vision to life.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The couple’s wedding cake was a three-tiered masterpiece, adorned with fresh flowers that mirrored the wedding palette. Each tier featured a different flavor, designed to delight their guests.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]Greta walked down the aisle to “Young and Beautiful” by Lana Del Rey, a song she had dreamed about for months. As the couple exited the ceremony, “The Nutcracker Op. 71, Act II, Pas de Deux” played, adding an air of timeless elegance to the moment. Throughout the evening, a live string quartet performed classical pieces, creating an atmosphere of refined luxury. The couple entered the event to Frank Sinatra’s “Fly Me to the Moon,” a tribute to Sebastian’s recent promotion to Delta captain. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Custom-designed stationery by Laurie DeMartino included watercolor illustrations of Tivoli Palácio de Seteais, adding a personal and artistic touch. Each invitation was hand-lettered and sealed with a gold wax stamp featuring the couple’s monogram.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Cole Mitchell Sprouse, a close friend of the couple and renowned actor, was among the wedding guests. Known for his passion for photography, Cole brought his film camera and captured some candid, artistic shots of the celebration, including intimate behind-the-scenes shots. His images added a personal and artistic perspective to the day. Greta and Sebastian entrusted their wedding film to the team of videographers from Studio D’Essai, who traveled all the way from Italy for the occasion. Greta was enchanted by the exceptional style of these videographers, who perfectly captured the essence and emotions of their special day.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]To conclude the weekend, the couple hosted a casual beach gathering at one of Sebastian’s favorite childhood spots. The group enjoyed music by the ocean, and as the rain cleared, a stunning sunset provided the perfect backdrop to the final celebration.[/field]
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Photography: Anya Alexeenko | Cinematography: Studio D'Essai | Event Planning: Greta Louise Tomè | Floral Design: Atelier Decorelle | Wedding Dress: Kim Kassas Couture | Invitations: Laure De Martino | Reception Venue: Palácio de Seteais | Beauty: Adriana Bartosova | Engagement Ring Designer: Verstolo | Rentals: Bc planning rentals

A Sunset Inspired Design at Kiawah Island’s River Course


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

All Shades of Pink! Aimee and Ladson wanted to create a design that mimicked the colors of their favorite sunsets on Kiawah Island.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Aimee and Ladson’s wedding day vision was centered around creating an unforgettable celebration for their family and friends. They wanted an epic party that not only honored their love but also gave their guests an experience to remember in two of their favorite places—Charleston and Kiawah Island. From the lively rehearsal and welcome party at the South Carolina Aquarium to the elegant ceremony and reception at The River Course on Kiawah Island, every detail was carefully curated to reflect their love for the Lowcountry. The weekend wrapped up with a heartfelt farewell brunch at the Osprey Clubhouse, allowing guests to soak in the beauty of Kiawah one last time. The couple’s thoughtful design choices, vibrant florals, and seamless blend of fun and elegance perfectly embodied their desire to celebrate in style while cherishing the people who matter most.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”][/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Aimee’s bridesmaids wore mix and match pink and peach dresses – each picking a gown that fit with their personal styles. The tones – from pastel to jewel – tied in perfectly with the overall design of the day. [/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”][/field]
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Aimee and Ladson crafted a delicious summer menu that highlighted seasonal flavors and Southern favorites. Guests enjoyed a refreshing watermelon salad to start, followed by a mouthwatering duo of beef tenderloin and crab cakes. During the cocktail hour, a variety of passed hors d’oeuvres, including oyster shooters, beef tartare, and chicken and waffles, offered a fun and flavorful nod to the couple’s Southern venue.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Aimee and Ladson’s floral design was a stunning tribute to the soft, dreamy sunsets of Kiawah Island. They chose a palette of pinks, peaches, purples, and blues to bring this vision to life. Just one of the showstoppers of the day was their breathtaking floral arch, designed in a graceful ombre effect that transitioned from vibrant pink to soft peach to crisp white, creating the perfect romantic backdrop for their vows.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Aimee and Ladson chose a simple yet elegant confetti wedding cake adorned with fresh flowers that perfectly complemented their overall design. In addition to the cake, they treated their guests to a selection of their favorite desserts, including snickerdoodle cookies, key lime pie, s’mores cake, and strawberry shortcake. This sweet variety added a personal touch and ensured there was something for everyone to enjoy.

[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]The couple incorporated traditional Irish music throughout their day. The ceremony began with the stirring sounds of bagpipes, setting a heartfelt and meaningful tone. During cocktail hour, an Irish musical duo played lively tunes, adding an authentic cultural touch and creating a festive atmosphere that celebrated the groom’s roots.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Aimee and Ladson’s seating chart was a personal and unique reflection of their journey together, featuring some of their favorite travel destinations since the start of their relationship. Each table was named after a special place they’ve visited, including memorable spots like the Bronx Zoo, the Cliffs of Moher, the Grand Tetons, Yankee Stadium, Eilean Donan Castle, and the Great Smoky Mountains. This thoughtful touch added a layer of sentiment to their celebration, giving guests a glimpse into the adventures that have shaped their love story.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Aimee and Ladson’s celebration wouldn’t have been complete without their beloved puppy, Brigid Ann, by their side. As part of the ceremony, she stole hearts while wearing a beautiful floral collar that matched the couple’s vibrant wedding flowers, making her an adorable and cherished part of their special day.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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Photography: Rebecca Sigety Photography | Videography: Luminous Event Films | Event Planning: Anderson Event Design | Floral Design: Bliss in Bloom | Invitations: Kate Eliza Creative | Reception Venue: The River Course | Band: The Bograts | Band: East Coast Entertainment | Beauty: Charleston Bridal Collab | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Linens: Stradley Davidson Linen Collective | Rentals: Curated Events Charleston

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
French Romance in the Washington Highlands With European Influence in Every Corner


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”The Inspiration”]

The venue itself was an architectural marvel, with European influences seen in every corner—from the grand façade to the intricate details throughout the space. This foundation set the tone for the entire wedding design. The timeless quality of the venue’s structure brought a sense of sophistication, making it feel like stepping into a fairytale set in the heart of Europe. To complement the venue’s grandeur, the design choices were carefully curated to maintain a sense of refinement and luxury. Each element, from the floral arrangements to the tablescapes, was chosen to elevate the space while allowing its natural beauty to shine through. The color palette was kept neutral with soft whites, creams, blush, mauve, and golds, which enhanced the venue’s architectural details without overpowering them. The goal was to create an ambiance that was both classic and refined, perfectly aligning with the couple’s vision of a wedding that would stand the test of time.

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Cream and champagne serve as the foundation of this color scheme, providing a timeless, neutral base. These shades add warmth and sophistication, creating a classic backdrop for all the wedding’s details. Whether used in the linens, florals, or attire, these soft neutrals offer a sense of understated luxury. They reflect light beautifully, giving an air of elegance without overwhelming the space. To elevate the palette with a romantic touch, blush and mauve bring in just the right amount of color. Blush, with its delicate pink hue, adds a sweet and tender element, perfect for a wedding that feels intimate and full of love. Mauve, a deeper and more complex shade, complements blush by providing depth, an old-world feel, and richness. Together, these two colors bring balance, with blush adding softness and mauve creating dimension, making every element—from florals to bridesmaids’ dresses—feel both cohesive and luxurious.

[/field]
[field title=”The Venue”]Nestled in the picturesque Issaquah Highlands, this private chateau is the epitome of timeless luxury. The venue itself is a masterpiece, boasting stunning architectural features that immediately transport guests to an era of classic European grandeur. Its exterior is stately and refined, with stone facades and intricate details that hint at the elegance waiting inside.

One of the standout features of the chateau is its exquisite hand-painted wallpaper. Each room is adorned with carefully crafted designs that elevate the entire space. The wallpaper adds a layer of sophistication and artistry, creating an atmosphere that feels as if each corner holds a unique story. At the heart of the chateau lies its crowning jewel—a sweeping marble staircase that commands attention as soon as you enter. The staircase, with its smooth, polished stone and elegant curves, is the ultimate symbol of grandeur. The staircase naturally becomes a focal point for guests and a stage for intimate moments, embodying both beauty and elegance.[/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

The Monique Lhullier gown looked divine on our bride with a French lace pattern, off-the-shoulder neckline and full skirt, perfect for the romantic aesthetic of the overall design. The delicate floral lace pattern on the dress was the inspiration for much of the wedding day design, including the linen, the dainty floral pattern on the stationery and menu, and the intricate lace detail on the wedding cake. The texture of the dinner plates was a continuation of the attention to an intricate, lacy touch.

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[field title=”Wedding Party”]

The bridesmaids each wore unique dresses from Mac Duggal and Dessy, selected to bring a variety of colors and textures into the overall design and complimenting each of their unique personalities.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Lily of the valley is one of the most elegant and timeless flowers, symbolizing purity and grace, and is often used to add a touch of opulence to weddings. For this particular wedding, the delicate blooms were arranged in beautiful bud vases throughout the venue, providing a subtle yet sophisticated charm. The bride’s bouquet, also composed of lily of the valley, was an exquisite showpiece. Worth over $1,000, this luxurious bouquet was the epitome of understated elegance, showcasing how a single type of flower can create an unforgettable statement when used with intentionality and care. The venue’s sweeping staircase was transformed into a lush and grand floral masterpiece. Cascading arrangements of florals lined the railings and steps, creating a breathtaking visual that immediately captured guests’ attention upon arrival. The staircase florals became a focal point for the day, setting the stage for unforgettable moments like the couple’s entrance and intimate portraits.

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[field title=”Favorite Design Element”]

Our plates were specially ordered from Italy to bring in that unique European feel.

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[field title=”Tips To Pull Off The Look”]

The wedding was thoughtfully designed with subtle yet intentional parallels, creating a cohesive and elegant experience throughout. The bride’s dress and the linens echoed each other in soft, luxurious textures, while the sculpted look of the cake beautifully mirrored the intricate curves of the venue’s staircase railing. Even the vellum wrap of the invitation suite reflected the delicate architecture of the venue, tying together each element in a harmonious, elevated design. These thoughtful touches created an effortlessly sophisticated ambiance, making the entire event feel both refined and deeply personal.

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Photographer: Janet Lin Photography | Photography: Janet Lin Photography | Event Planning: Events by Genevieve | Floral Design: Emerald City Flowers | Wedding Dress: I Do Bridal | Cake: Alewa Bakeshop | Invitations: Honest Calligraphy | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Dessy Collection By Vivian Diamond | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Mac Duggal | Groom's Attire: Top Tier Tux | Beauty: I M Artistry | Location: Private Estate | Rentals: Cort Party Rentals | Rentals: Noble Event Rentals | Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Arte Italica

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Exploring Eco-Responsible Techniques in Event Floristry at the Majestic Manoir Hovey in Estrie


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”The Inspiration”]

From Field to Event: Enfants Sauvages’ Jean-Noël Kapferer, a luxury marketing expert, has often addressed the issue of the link between social responsibility and luxury. According to him, luxury is not only a question of exceptional products but also of an intimate relationship with strong and lasting values. In his work, Kapferer emphasizes that luxury has always been associated with exclusivity, rarity, and quality, but these notions can be transformed to integrate responsible and ethical practices. This reflection fueled the creation of a particularly neat styled shoot, born from the inspiration of the concepts evoked by Kapferer. This styled shoot was part of a two-day workshop organized by the floral design studio Enfants Sauvages. Designed for professional florists wishing to refine their style and explore eco-responsible techniques in event floristry, this workshop took place at the majestic Manoir Hovey in Estrie, on the shores of Lake Massawippi. These choices reflected both the European spirit and the majesty of the place, creating an elegant, natural, and authentic atmosphere, perfectly aligned with the vision of sustainable floristry. The studio made the ethical and aesthetic choice to use only local flowers. This choice supports the region’s producers while offering exclusive varieties, not found elsewhere on the market. Rather than limiting itself to the standardized varieties of wholesalers, the studio delves into a world of 40,000 varieties of English roses and other flowers with unique characters. These flowers, with dancing stems and colors chosen directly from the grove, offer a more authentic and natural palette, far from the predictable colors of a catalog. The profusion and richness of the floral material used in this styled shoot reflect a particular care given to quality and originality. Some of these flowers were grown especially for the event, thus highlighting the studio’s desire to free itself from market conventions by offering rare and personalized floral compositions. This choice enriches the style of the shoot, giving it an unequaled depth and richness.

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

The color palette intentionally eschewed white in favor of rich, warm autumnal hues. Inspired by fall and the local landscape, the color palette combines deep browns, evoking fertile earth, with warm tones like pink, burnt orange, and yellow, reminiscent of evening light on the lake. This deliberate choice balances the authenticity of natural elements with a sophisticated aesthetic sensibility, emphasizing a commitment to valuing local materials while cultivating a sense of eco-friendly luxury. Beyond a simple styled shoot, it is a true invitation to rethink the floral industry through informed choices, sustainable practices, and a true passion for the authentic beauty of nature.

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[field title=”The Venue”]

Perched on the shores of Lake Massawippi in the heart of Quebec’s Estrie region, Manoir Hovey embodies the perfect marriage of refinement and serenity. Classified as a Relais & Châteaux, this historic estate offers a unique atmosphere, blending European refinement with Quebec authenticity. Its lush gardens, breathtaking views of the lake, and timeless architecture make it an ideal setting for weddings and exceptional events. Every detail, from the sophisticated interiors to the surrounding natural beauty, invites you to escape and celebrate in a setting that is both majestic and intimate.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]The wedding gown was a stunning statement piece by Di Carlo Couture, featuring a bold lace pattern that exuded elegance. Its drop-waist silhouette added a modern twist, striking the perfect balance between timeless sophistication and contemporary style. Paired with fingerless gloves, the ensemble radiated effortless chic, completing a look that was both iconic and memorable.[/field]
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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Soft hues from the architectural surroundings to the subtle glow of candlelight, paired with the elegance of Gustave Sabre White Flatware and Tan Stripe Stonewash Linen Napkins, gently echo throughout the design, creating a harmonious backdrop that allows the vibrant blooms of late summer to truly shine in the centerpieces. The gentle harmony of texture and color invites a sense of calm, while the bold blooms bring a touch of joy and vitality to the table. It’s a perfect balance of timeless elegance and seasonal warmth—capturing the essence of late summer’s fleeting beauty.

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[field title=”Favorite Design Element”]

If I had to choose, I’d say the flatware from Simply Beautiful Decor is my absolute favorite. There’s something so effortlessly chic and modern about it—it’s the perfect example of how the right design element can be elevated simply by pairing it with the pieces that best complement it. A subtle touch that makes all the difference in a beautifully curated tablescape

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[field title=”Tips To Pull Off The Look”][/field]
[field title=”DIY Moments”]

Creativity often springs from the spontaneity of trial and error. Initially, the tablescape design felt like it needed a rich, textured element, something like nuts, so I filled my grocery bags with a variety of them —pistachios, pine nuts, hazelnuts, hickory nuts, you name it. And, as the design unfolded, it became clear: the walnut was the perfect choice. Its earthy elegance brought a sense of luxe and refinement to the table, effortlessly complementing the overall mood and elevating the entire arrangement.

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Photography: Junophoto | Design: Enfants Sauvages | Design: Junophoto | Design & Styling: Paulina & Co | Floral Design: Enfants Sauvages | Dress: Di Carlo Couture | Stationery: Acétate La Boite | Suit: Blandin & Delloye | Venue: Manoir Hovey | Jewelry ( earrings and engagment ring): Loft Bijoux | Makeup and Hairstyling: Slava Beauty Trend | Model: Etienne Sabourin | Model: Mylaa Simon-Desloges | Models: Ema modeling agency | Planning: Enfants Sauvages | Planning: Junophoto | Rentals: Groupe ABP / Sofa To Go | Rentals: Simply Beautiful Decor

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Moody and Romantic Wedding at The Dunlavy


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Ombre of Wine Red, Blush Pink and Creams[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

The Dunlavy embodied the romantic, moody vibe the couple wanted. A color palette of blacks, mauves, and Bordeaux red was brought to life by Maria Maxit in floral arrangements. “I wanted a contrast of dark and light colors,” Brittany says of the florals, which included ombre roses, orchids, and more. “Maria brought my vision to life!” After a traditional Jewish ceremony, the pair and their guests dined and danced under the venue’s elegant chandeliers. Though the guests might mention the decadent mac and cheese bar as the night’s favorite, for the bride, it was the Hora dance: “It is one of my favorite Jewish wedding traditions!”

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Both originally from Dallas, Brittany Shipp and Hudson Seidel met on a blind date set up by mutual friends. Hudson proposed during a weekend getaway to Vail, Colo., with expansive views of the mountains as a backdrop—a moment captured perfectly by a photographer he had hired to hide nearby. “I will treasure those photos forever,” the bride says.

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The evening’s Lazy Lemonade cocktail was the highlight, but the decadent Mac and Cheese was a hard contender! A sweet touch was the Harry Potter-inspired cake as well! Catering: The Dunlavy, thedunlavy.com

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Ombre floral runners covered the table, courtesy of visionary floral designer Maria Maxit; the contemporary invitation suite matched the wedding’s moody palette.

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Harry Potter Inspired Cake by Cakes Cakes by Gina.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

To celebrate their newlywed status, Brittany and Hudson escaped to the beaches of Hawaii where they soaked up The Ritz- Carlton, Kapalua in Maui.

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Photography: The Silhouette Studio | Event Planning: Alyssa Meeks Events | Floral Design: Maxit Flower Design | Cake: Cakes by Gina | Reception Venue: The Dunlavy | DJ: In10City | Groom's Attire: Bonobos | Beauty: Austin Scott Styles | Engagement Ring Designer: Shapiro Diamonds | Rentals: Events In Bloom | Rentals: Mikes Dance Floors | Weddings Rings: Bachendorf's

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
5 Handsome Alternatives to Black for Your Groom

We love a groom in classic black, don’t get us wrong. But when it comes to statement-making style choices for the gents, opting for a happy hue is always a great way to infuse your wedding with some personality. From burgundy to chambray blue, here are five suit colors we’d love to see grooms donning more this year.

Burgundy

Next to black, this might be our favorite suit color for 2018. It’s a hue that looks great any season and adds a bit of warmth and romance to your groom’s style.

Go Green

From sage to forest green, this hue is a perfect choice for a fete with vintage flair. Pair it with camel loafers like shown here for a more casual look.

Chambray Blue

This hue is our number one pick for summer 2018 weddings. From a beach soiree to a Southern charmer, it’s light, fun and fresh and perfect warm weather fetes.

Two-tone Tweed

An all-white suit might feel a bit stark and compete with the bride’s style—but add a tweed jacket and you’ve got two-tone perfection.

Navy Check

Going for more of a hipster vibe? Navy check is where it’s at and pairs handsomely with pops of red blooms.

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