SUBMIT WEDDING
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The Sweetest Summer Wedding at Cornman Farms Complete With Adorable Animal Friends!


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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Pink, Blue, Yellow, with touches of purple and orange!

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Surim and Josh’s wedding at Cornman Farms in Dexter, Michigan, was a day filled with intimate moments and personal touches, surrounded by 60 of their closest loved ones.
The ceremony took place on the farmhouse lawn, under a large tree with a colorful floral arch, perfectly framed by the farm’s beautiful gardens. Guests enjoyed a cozy cocktail hour in the barn, where the farm’s goats made a playful appearance. The family-style dinner featured vintage china, lush florals, and Parisian macarons as a nod to the couple’s engagement in Paris. The evening ended with stunning sunset photos and a magical sparkler send-off, creating memories that perfectly captured the love and joy of the day![/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Surim and Josh were visiting Paris together and Josh popped the big question along the Seine River with the Eiffel Tower in the background!

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Bridal Boutique: Beloved Bridal
Ceremony Gown: Anais Anette
Reception Gown: Lili Hod
Bridal Alterations: Sarah Kolis Designs
Bridal Accessories: Olive and Piper and Jennifer Behr [/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

Bridesmaid Dresses: Dessy Group

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Groom’s Tux: President Tuxedo[/field]
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The couple and their guests enjoyed a multi course family style dining menu with the following selections: Confit Fennel and Spring Greens Salad, Bourbon Glazed Roasted Beef, Roasted Garlic Mash, Crushed Minted Peas, Roasted Tomatoes, and Cauliflower & Ras el Hanout Rice.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Flora Rae designed the most beautiful ceremonial floral arch that sat under the giant oak tree on the Cornman Farms lawn. This arch was then repurposed behind the wedding cake and was a favorite photo spot all night! The bridesmaids carried floral basket bouquets and the family style tables where lines with beautiful arrangements and the loveliest intimate candlelight. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Zingermans Bakehouse created a delicious cake with the following flavors: Vanilla Chiffon Cake with Vanilla Bean Pastry Cream, Cherry Preserves & Vanilla Buttercream.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]Their ceremony was conducted by a family friend and mentor, Dr. Pastor Mark Hong; this was a special way to incorporate their connection to faith and familial traditions. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Since the couple got engaged in Paris, guests were treated to Maison Laduree macarons flown in from Paris!

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]During the reception the Groom serenaded the Bride with a song alongside his sisters – the whole group played Perfect by Ed Sheeran. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]Their family and friends traveled from all over the world and country to be at their wedding day – the furthest traveled directly from Korea! [/field]
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Photography: Megan Hannon Photography | Cinematography: TruVision Studios | Event Design: Jeannene Lillie Events | Event Planning: Jeannene Lillie Events | Floral Design: Flora Rae | Invitations: Margaux Paperie | DJ: DJ Lufru | Wedding Venue: Zingerman's Cornman Farms | Audio Guestbook Phone: Mammoth Party | Beauty: Drake Artistry Collective | Bridal Alterations: Sarah Kolis Couture Gowns | Bridal Boutique: Beloved Bridal | Cake Designer: Zingerman's Bakehouse | Guest Favors: La Duree | Linen Rentals: Nuage Designs | Stamp Curation: Fine Flourish Writing

Organic Blooms and Timeless Style at This Summer Rancho Valencia Affair


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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]The main colors used in Veronika & Chris’ wedding were white, gold & lots of lush greenery. [/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]The bride really wanted to keep the day timeless with classic colors, neutral tones, elegant design, and traditional choices. [/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]From the bride Veronika “We were wine tasting in Napa Valley the day after Christmas with my family. Chris proposed at Mumm Napa, the first stop of the day. My dad had been a member at Mumm for over 30 years so it’s just a very special place for my family and I and now the place we got engaged!”[/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Veronika wore an Enzoani wedding gown. With a fitted lace bodice adorned with subtle sparkle and a long cathedral length veil, she was truly a vision on her wedding day.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bridesmaids wore champagne and soft blush Show me your Mumu floor length gowns. They each chose a different overall style of dress, all while keeping the same color palette, which was such an elegant choice.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The groomsmen wore black Men’s Wearhouse suits, with the groom in all black.[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]The specialty drinks were espresso martinis, and a pomegranate basil smash.

The hors d’oeuvres were bruschetta with a tomato and Burrata, Beef skewer with Taziki, And a tater tot with crème fraîche and caviar.

The first course for dinner was handmade ricotta gnocchi with pomodoro sauce & burrata. A crisp caesar salad was the second course. Entrees were filet mignon with a truffle, scallop potato or a miso blacken cod on wasabi mashed potatoes. [/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]From the floral designer Laura of Bluebell Florals, “Veronika wanted a classic and timeless design with lush garden style blooms. We loved creating her ceremony space, to look as if the florals had been growing on the pergola all along. They wanted the reception space to feel intimate and romantic so we used lots of candles on each table to compliment the classic white florals and greenery draped along the chandeliers.”[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The wedding cake was a 5 tier, all white cake decorated with white roses. The first option was a vanilla cake with berry jam & vanilla cream, and swiss meringue buttercream. The second option was a lemon cake with lemon curd, mascarpone cream, and swiss meringue buttercream.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]The music and vibe was classic with a little bit of oldies! (Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley)[/field]
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Photography: Mallory Dawn Photography | Videographer: Prodigy Studios | Wedding Planner: Sweet Blossom Weddings | Floral Design: Bluebell Flowers | Makeup Artist: Lacie Pence Make Up | DJ: Pacific Entertainment | Venue: Rancho Valencia | Baker: Jenny Wenny Cakes | Ceremony Music/ String Quartet: Pink Mozart Entertainment | Film Lab: Rewind Film Lab | Hair Artist: Latisha Marcum | Photo Booth: Pixster Photo Booth | Specialty Rentals: Event Party Rentals

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
A Venue Rich With History Set the Tone for This Summer Wedding Day


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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Blends of reds and fuschias with a soft blue as our accent color – my vision was to be bright and fun mixed with some timeless!

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

Our wedding venue, The Inn at Barley Sheaf Farm, made you feel like you were stepping into a European countryside farmstead. It was the home of George Kaufman, a playwright, where all of the rooms on site are named after one of his plays and decorated uniquely from one another with gorgeous antiques. We wanted to lean into the setting and have a very natural, lightly rustic, cozy, vintage, elegant, and bright sort of feel. Our bridal party loved staying on site and we are looking forward to enjoying anniversaries to come staying and dining back at the Inn!

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

As we were moving out of our city apartment getting ready for our next chapter of moving to the suburbs, we took a literal walk down memory lane on Waverly Street in Philly and Andrew proposed! We popped some bubbly and sat on a bench there while we called family and friends to share the exciting news, and followed up with a dinner and some special BYO wines at Ambrosia!

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Madi Lane Bridal bought at Kimberly James Bridal Shop; Something romantic, clean, and a line, with the hopes of being comfortable enough! The off-the-shoulder sleeves made for a gorgeous photo and ceremony look, which I then snapped at the back for an off-the-shoulder cocktail hour and reception look which made for easier dancing! The organza material was just gorgeous in the way it naturally laid in a “wavy” sort of way. I’m a pearl gal, so in addition to my pearl necklace, my veil was edged with small pearls.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Bridesmaids were given free reign when it came to the dresses. The only stipulation was to pick a pink dress!! [/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

Blue suits – Andrew found him at Brooks Brothers. Classic brown shoes and a light champagne-colored tie.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

we chose to have some traditional crowd-pleasing signature drinks and have some fun with the names as a kudos to our meeting on the popular dating app “Hinge” – a “Swipe Right” (Aperol) Spritzand a “Perfect Match” Paloma. We also leaned into the mocktail crowd for a third option of a “Lavender Haze” Lemon Spritz. The food at Barley Sheaf was phenomenal, with many guests telling us it was the best wedding food they’d ever had. Short rib, chicken, and a vegetable risotto cake for entrees, with some of our favorite appetizers being the beet deviled eggs, compressed watermelon with feta, and duck spring rolls.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Our florals transformed the entire room! I wanted a colorful, whimsical, romantic wildflower vibe, and Cottage Gardener (Kimberly Bakke) delivered. I wanted to stay consistent with a red-based theme, which she layered throughout the room on the head family table with a natural runner and some gorgeous taper candles mixed throughout, as well as a mix of compotes, bud vases, and candles throughout the room. The head table was a vision and was so romantic and elegant. I loved how the candles flickered in the windows behind us! And where to begin on my bouquet…

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Caketeria in Newtown, PA made our wedding cake. I’ve been loving the vintage cake trend and how timeless it is and went with a clean white cake and an added fun flair of “just married” in subtle white writing on the top.

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

I grew up in western PA, where every family wedding had a cookie table. Family and friends (even those who had never heard of the concept before!) came together to bake more than 85 dozen cookies, which unbelievably ALL got eaten or taken home. It was so fun to chat with guests at every table about their favorite cookie and especially for those who the tradition was new to, how special it was. Some classics like peanut butter and chocolate chip, but so many unique cookies like peanut butter Buckeyes, chocolate covered Oreos, Penn State and Villanova themed sugar cookies (an homage to our Alma maters), and Maple cookies (an homage to our puppy Maple!) to name a few. We also had “doggie” take-home bags with Maple’s face on them for guests to enjoy cookies later.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Another very special detail of my day were my pearls, which my godfather gifted to me a pearl for every birthday, holiday, or special occasion until I had a full strand of pearls at 18, to hopefully wear one day at my wedding. It was so special to have that wishful dreaming become reality and I wore them with pride! [/field]
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Photography: Lexi Jaice Photography | Floral Design: A Cottage Gardener | Wedding Dress: kimberly james bridal | Reception Venue: Inn At Barley Sheaf Farm | Catering: Inn At Barley Sheaf Farm | DJ: East Coast Entertainment | Beauty: natalie bridal co | Beauty: rachel carbrey

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Shades of Pink and Timeless Elegance: A Dream Wedding at Château Saint Martin


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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]The couple envisioned a perfect blend of various pink shades, seamlessly merging with the natural beauty of the venue and its lush greenery. The inspiration began with Dolce & Gabbana’s iconic Maiolica patterns: for the pre-wedding event, Joana, the bride, embraced her “something blue at Côte d’Azur” with a blue Maiolica mini dress. On the wedding day, we shifted to the vibrant magenta version, weaving its different shades throughout the celebration to create a cohesive and elegant palette.[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Guja Pusterla, in collaboration with Marcella Molinari, meticulously crafted the overall design for Joana and Lucas’s special day. The couple envisioned a romantic, timeless aesthetic with a modern twist, and the design was centered around two key elements that reflected their vision.

The first focal point was the dinner setting. While most couples hosting their wedding at Château Saint-Martin opt for a marquee in the garden, Joana and Lucas were enchanted by the breathtaking views from the château’s main terrace. From the very beginning, they knew their dinner had to take place there, embracing the natural beauty of the landscape and allowing it to set the perfect backdrop for their celebration.

The second key element was the bar setup, as the party was an absolute must for Joana and Lucas. With roots in Germany and Cyprus, hosting a destination wedding in the South of France meant creating an unforgettable experience for their guests. As a young, dynamic couple, they had always dreamed of celebrating until the early hours—initially planning to party until 4 AM, though the festivities joyfully continued until 6 AM! Inspired by their favorite private club in Paris, Raspoutine, they wanted to recreate its unique, sultry atmosphere within the château. This became our mission, and together with the talented D&X team, we brought their vision to life with stunning results.

Joana and Lucas wanted their wedding to be an intimate gathering of their closest friends and family, where everyone could truly enjoy themselves. The atmosphere they envisioned was a dreamy blend of fairytale romance and the effortless elegance of the French Riviera—perfectly mirroring the charm of their chosen location. Château Saint-Martin, with its rich history and enchanting setting, captured their hearts immediately. Interestingly, the château itself was a wedding gift from its original owner to his wife, adding an extra layer of romance to the venue’s story and making it the perfect place for Joana and Lucas to begin their own.[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]The couple is from Northern Germany and works in the real estate and shipping sectors. They cherish being surrounded by friends and family, which plays an important role in their lives.

They first met through a mutual friend when they were younger, but their love story truly began during their studies. It wasn’t love at first sight; instead, a deep and genuine friendship gradually blossomed into something more. Shortly after they started dating, they quickly realized they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together. Their strong bond, rooted in years of knowing and appreciating each other’s values and qualities, made this realization feel natural.

The proposal took place on an ordinary Wednesday evening, but it unfolded in the most extraordinary way. It happened at the house where Joana grew up—a place filled with sentimental value. The house was set to be demolished, making that moment one of the final and most treasured memories they would create there, a memory they will carry with them forever.[/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Joana’s wedding dress, designed by Zuhair Murad, was purchased at The Wedding Club in London. Given Joana’s Lebanese heritage—her father is from Lebanon—the choice of a Zuhair Murad gown felt especially meaningful, adding a personal touch that beautifully reflected her roots.

For the party, Joana chose a striking dress by Balykina, a Ukrainian designer. She instantly fell in love with it when she saw Leonie Hanne wearing it at her engagement, knowing right away it would be the perfect choice for her celebration. She completed her look with elegant flat shoes by Jimmy Choo and cherished accessories borrowed from her mother, adding a sentimental touch to her ensemble.

The groom’s suit was custom-tailored in Hamburg, perfectly reflecting his sophisticated style. He paired it with classic Santoni shoes, while his accessories—all from Cartier—added an extra layer of refined elegance.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bridesmaids’ dresses perfectly complemented the wedding’s color palette. Each of them wore beautiful gowns in varying shades of pink, ranging from soft, pale tones to vibrant fuchsia, creating a harmonious and elegant look.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The groomsmen’s attire, along with that of all the male guests, adhered to the black-tie dress code. The styles ranged from fashion-forward suits—such as the groom’s father’s sleek black Dior tuxedo—to timeless, classic tuxedos, creating an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere.[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]The food and drinks were primarily provided by the Château, home to an extraordinary Michelin-starred restaurant that draws inspiration from the beauty and bounty of nature. Under the expert guidance of Chef Jean-Luc Lefrançois, the restaurant transforms the rich harvests of the Riviera into refined cuisine, sourcing the finest ingredients from local producers.

Le Saint-Martin Restaurant, perched like an epicurean aerie, offers sweeping views over the Côte d’Azur, complemented by elegant, contemporary interiors that reflect the freshness of the season. The gourmet pastry chef adds the crowning touch to each meal with exquisite desserts, while Head Sommelier Vincent Arhuro curates an exceptional wine selection, elevating the dining experience into a true journey of discovery.

For the aperitif, the couple selected an assortment of sophisticated finger foods, followed by a three-course dinner featuring a delightful progression of flavors. They enjoyed lobster accompanied by celery remoulade, crisp apple, and a ginger-lemongrass emulsion; truffle pasta enriched with fresh truffles and cream, perfectly suited to the autumn season; and a choice between filet de boeuf or sea bass. The meal concluded with a curated selection of fine French cheeses.

The wine selection included an elegant array of red, white, and rosé wines from Côte de Provence Figuière Confidentielle, alongside Moët & Chandon champagne to add a celebratory touch.
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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Joana knew from the very beginning that she wanted a fully pink wedding. Together with Perrine, Guja, and Marcella, carefully planned the perfect floral decorations to bring her vision to life. For the ceremony, a grand floral arch served as a stunning backdrop, complemented by delicate floral arrangements placed inside the venue’s existing fountain to highlight its natural beauty. A long aisle, lined with ground floral compositions and a pristine white carpet, added a unique and elegant touch, making the setting feel truly special.

The floral selection featured a harmonious mix of roses, hydrangeas, bougainvillea, and dahlias, creating a vibrant yet romantic atmosphere. After the ceremony, the aisle arrangements were repurposed to adorn the reception terrace, beautifully framing the fountain area once again. The reception tables included a combination of round tables and a long imperial table reserved for the couple, their families, and the bridal party. To add visual interest and dynamic movement, Guja, Marcella, and Perrine decided to alternate between tall and low floral centerpieces.

For the reception décor, Joana requested a subtle touch of blue to be incorporated into the floral compositions, adding a delicate contrast to the dominant pink palette. All the breathtaking decorations were impeccably captured by photographer Elisabetta Riccio and her talented team, while George Panagiotakis masterfully documented the event through video, creating a romantic and emotionally touching portrayal of this incredible love story.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The wedding cake was a masterpiece crafted by the Château’s talented pastry chef—a delectable five-tier creation featuring layers of light lemon génoise and luscious raspberry cream. Elegantly adorned with a delicate pale pink sugar paste, the cake was personalized with the couple’s initials and beautifully complemented by floral decorations provided by Miss Rose by Perrine.
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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]One of their close friends officiated the ceremony, making it an incredibly heartfelt and emotional moment. Throughout the ceremony, Joana’s sisters and friends took turns reading beautiful passages and poems, adding a deeply personal touch to the celebration.

For Joana and Lucas, music was another top priority. They chose Everso Music for their big day—an incredible decision that truly elevated the atmosphere. The band featured various performers, starting with a duo of vocalists during the ceremony. Joana made her entrance with her father, walking down the aisle to Until I Found You by Stephen Sanchez, while the newlyweds exited to the joyful rhythm of Let the Music Play by Barry White.

During the aperitif, a DJ accompanied by a saxophonist created a soft, elegant ambiance, perfectly setting the tone for the evening. Dinner turned into an unforgettable show, with the full band performing live, moving around the tables, singing, and dancing with the guests. The energy was contagious, creating an extraordinary and lively atmosphere.

The celebration continued indoors with an epic DJ set that kept the party going late into the night, ensuring the perfect ending to an unforgettable day.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]One of the first special touches of the wedding was undoubtedly the stationery suite. The Lights Factory did an exceptional job, creating stunning watercolors of the venue that captured its beauty. The suite included not only save-the-dates, invitations, and on-the-day stationery, but also thoughtfully crafted welcome bags for each guest, which were placed in their rooms upon arrival. Additionally, we created customized ceramic tiles, made in Italy, for each guest. These served as both place cards at the table and as keepsakes for them to take home.

In addition, D&X Events provided a beautiful and interactive pink tableau de mariage, which added a playful and personal element to the décor. To honor the Italian roots of the wedding planners and designers, the tableau featured personalized Limoncello bottles, offering a charming and memorable detail for the guests.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Another special detail was the party room, inspired by the Raspoutine Club, a place that holds deep significance for Joana and Lucas. It was the club they frequented together—just the two of them—whenever Lucas visited Joana while she was living in Paris. After their second visit, they had already become friends with the staff, and they absolutely loved the club’s unique vibe and atmosphere. This special connection made it the perfect touch to reflect their shared memories and love story.[/field]
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Photography: Ellie Ro | Cinematography: George Panagiotakis | Event Design: Guja Pusterla Wedding & Event Planner | Event Design: Marcella Molinari Design | Event Planning: Guja Pusterla Wedding & Event Planner | Floral Design: Miss Rose By Perrine | Wedding Dress: Zuhair Murad | Invitations: The Lights Factory | Reception Venue: Eden Rock St Barth | Catering: Eden Rock St Barth | DJ: Everso Music | Beauty: Stella Nikolov | Content Creator: Wedding Raw Memories | Rentals: D&X Events | Rentals: Options

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
The Blueprint for a Classic Wedding at Koury Farms Weddings & Events


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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Rachael and Ryan choose classic colors for their big day!! Colors used were champagne, blush, ivory, and white. Touches of gold were used throughout. For the detail photos, a little blue was brought in with the ring box and perfume bottle.[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]The vision for the day was a classic, clean vibe. From the china set on the tables to the single flower each bridesmaid carried, the day was filled with details that captured their vision. [/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”][/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Rachael wore a gorgeous, white gown that continued with the classic, clean look for the day. With her hair pulled back and the pearl embellished veil, she was a true vision on her wedding day. You can see the joy in her eyes as she is taking photos and incorporating her dress and veil in them. [/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bridesmaids each wore a style dress that best suited them. In colors of ivory, blush, and champagne each dress suited the personality of the bridesmaid wearing it. Keeping with the classic, clean vibe, the bridesmaids dress were elegant and added so much to the design of the wedding. [/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Our handsome groom and groomsman wore tan suits. To keep with the vibe, none of them wore ties. A simple boutonniere, wore by each, was all that was needed. [/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]The couple treated their guests to a lovely buffet dinner. Drinks were provided all night as the couple and guests danced the night away. [/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The florals and decor continued the theme of the classic wedding. With floral arrangements keeping in the ivory and blush colors all the way to the crystal glasses on the table. Baby’s breath was an additional element added to the centerpieces which also brought a little touch of whimsy. Some tables continued the theme of the bridesmaid’s single flower by being lined with bud vases and a single flower. Candlelight helped to create an elegant feel during the reception. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Oh Sweet! Bakery provided a 2-tier classic cake with linear designs in buttercream. The cake was further decorated with a few florals and a gold cake topper with the name of the newly married couple!! In addition to the cake, a dessert bar was provided for all guests to enjoy. [/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]Racheal and Ryan worked with DJ Troy on their playlist so that each moment was special. The parents and bridal party walked in to Stand By Me by Bootstraps. Then our gorgeous bride made her walk with Biblical by Calum Scott. The couple danced their first dance as husband and wife with Heaven by Bryan Adams. Other special songs were My Little Girl by Tim McGraw and Things I Never Told You by Parker McCollum. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]One special detail that everyone loved was the mother of the bride dress. She glowed in a stunning green dress. This pop of color made for some amazing Bride and Mother photos. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]We loved that Rachael and Ryan combined their first look with a reading of private vows. Vows were written in vow books and the couple choose a secluded spot to exchange their vows on the property. This backdrop completely captured the emotion of this special moment. [/field]
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Photography: Heartbrave Studios | Coordination: Koury Farms Weddings & Events | Floral Design: Isabella Concetta Design | Cake: Oh Sweet! Bakery | Catering: Sugo Restaurant | DJ: DJ Troy | Wedding Venue: Koury Farms Weddings & Events | Beauty: Beauty and Beyond by Bri

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Desert Romance at The Lodge at Ventana With a Heartfelt Focus on Family


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Nicolle and Edmundo’s wedding in the Catalina Foothills was pure desert romance. With a classic palette of ivory, blush, pink, and peach, accented by fresh greenery, every detail felt effortlessly elegant. The ceremony, set against the stunning Arizona mountains and nestled in a quiet clearing near the golf course at The Lodge at Ventana Canyon, showed off their timeless decor with a full floral ground install surrounding the couple. As the sun set, guests dined under the stars at tables adorned with soft blooms that incorporated the colors from the ceremony. It was a celebration of love and beauty, perfectly capturing their timeless style.[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Nicolle and Edmundo envisioned a wedding day that was both classic and timeless, with a heartfelt focus on family. Their 2-year-old daughter, Mia, played a special role as the adorable flower girl, even taking part in the emotional first look. Every detail was thoughtfully planned to honor their love and heritage, including a beautifully crafted invitation suite in both English and Spanish, a nod to Edmundo’s roots. The planner, Meagan Crain of Crain & Co., worked hand-in-hand with florist Alexis Grace to create a romantic, timeless atmosphere with lush florals and elegant touches that reflected the couple’s deep connection to family and tradition.[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]The couple’s daughter, Mia has been the center of their universe since the day she arrived and because of the importance of their daughter and closeness of the family Edmundo decided to propose at Mia’s first birthday party. This was already a special celebration, surrounded by family and friends, but Edmundo had something even more magical in store. Halfway through the party, Nicolle was pulled aside by her mom and sister to help assemble one of Mia’s gifts. A few minutes later, someone rushed in, saying, “something’s wrong with Mia.” Worried, Nicolle hurried back into the room, only to find Edmundo standing in the center, holding Mia, in a room completely transformed with a beautiful floral installation. Mia’s shirt had the sweetest message: “Mommy, will you marry Daddy?” as their song, “Better Together,” played softly in the background. Edmundo got down on one knee and proposed with a stunning emerald cut engagement ring, creating a moment filled with love and surprise. After she said yes, they spent the rest of the party celebrating with their loved ones. It was a day they’ll never forget.
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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Nicolle’s bridal style was a stunning blend of timeless elegance and personalized touches. She wore the “Mary” gown from the Signature Justin Alexander collection, a show-stopping choice with its classic silhouette and modern flair. To make the dress uniquely her own, Nicolle added glitter tulle to the skirt for a touch of sparkle and custom-designed a dramatic bishop sleeve, which she wore for the first part of the day and during the ceremony. The soft, ethereal sleeves added a regal vibe as she walked down the aisle, but for the reception, Nicolle removed them for a more streamlined, dance-ready look, perfectly blending sophistication, fun, and comfort.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Nicolle’s bridal party looked effortlessly chic in a beautiful array of light pink and peach tones, perfectly complementing the romantic desert setting. Each bridesmaid’s dress added a unique touch, with the Maid of Honor standing out in a stunning tiered floral print dress from Revolve. Another floral bridesmaid wowed in a design from Revelry, while the rest of the bridal party wore a mix of satin and chiffon dresses from Birdy Grey, and a playful ruffle dress from Baltic Born. Little Mia, the couple’s daughter, wore a custom dress, while the flower girl’s sweet attire came from Dillard’s. Nicolle’s mom radiated elegance in a Mac Duggal gown, and all the bridesmaids, along with Nicolle’s mom and mother-in-law, completed their looks with beautiful earrings from Olive & Piper. The soft, cohesive palette made the bridal party shine while still allowing each individual’s personality to come through and it perfectly brought out the peach colors in the bouquets and florals.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Edmundo and his groomsmen brought a stylish and personal touch to the wedding day with their sleek, custom attire. Edmundo looked dashing in a custom black suit from Indochino, which featured a meaningful surprise—a Día de Los Muertos print lining the inside of the jacket as a tribute to his Mexican heritage. This thoughtful detail added a personal and cultural nod to his look, making it both sentimental and unique. The groomsmen complemented Edmundo perfectly in matching black suits from Generation Tux, creating a sharp and cohesive style for the day. Together, they exuded elegance, sophistication, and a sense of unity, while Edmundo’s custom suit added a memorable and personal touch with a hidden pop of color.[/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]The dining experience at Nicolle and Edmundo’s wedding was nothing short of exquisite, with a thoughtfully curated menu catered by the venue, Ventana Canyon Club and Lodge. Guests were treated to a fresh and flavorful start with mixed greens, poached pears, candied pecans, feta cheese, and red seedless grapes, all drizzled with a red wine vinaigrette. For the main course, options included a decadent artichoke and parmesan stuffed chicken breast with herb pan jus, pan-seared filet mignon with a rich Sauce Godart of prosciutto and mushrooms, and grilled salmon with a bright Meyer lemon beurre blanc. Vegetarian guests enjoyed a roasted poblano chili, while all dishes were complemented by herb-roasted marbled potatoes with rosemary and parmesan and grilled broccolini with lemon vinaigrette. The menu was a perfect balance of elegance and flavor, offering something for every palate, and adding to the unforgettable experience of the day.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The florals by Alexis Grace Florals were a stunning highlight of Nicolle and Edmundo’s wedding, bringing their vision of timeless romance to life. The color palette was elegantly showcased through an array of ranunculus, sweet peas, roses, lisianthus, and lush greenery. The ceremony featured an impressive floral installation that surrounded the couple on a raised platform, with breathtaking mountain views in the background. After the ceremony, the florals were repurposed for the reception, decorating the sweetheart table and cake display with the same vibrant beauty and architectural flora artistry that Alexis Grace is know for. Every bouquet and centerpiece carried the same romantic charm, perfectly tying the day’s design together with elegance and grace.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Nicolle and Edmundo’s wedding cake was not only a beautiful centerpiece but also held sentimental value. Crafted by Village Bakehouse, the three-tier cake featured layers of lemon, red velvet, and pink champagne, with a vanilla almond sheet cake too. The tiered cake was elegantly finished with white frosting and delicate edible pearl details, adding a timeless touch to the design. Having created every birthday cake for Nicolle throughout her youth, it was a meaningful full-circle moment for Village Bakehouse to be part of her wedding day. The cake was as special to Nicolle as it was delicious, blending tradition with sweet nostalgia.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]One of the most heartwarming and unforgettable details of Nicolle and Edmundo’s wedding day was the inclusion of their daughter, Mia. In a sweet surprise, Mia had her very own first look with Edmundo, who thought he was about to see Nicolle in her wedding dress for the first time. When he turned around, there was little Mia, who instantly ran into his arms, creating a tear-filled moment that no one will forget. Mia was also featured in the flatlay, with her hair bow included among the special details, and she made several appearances throughout the day in family photos and walking her Mom down the aisle with her grandparents. It was so important to Nicolle and Edmund that she was part of every cherished memory. Even the cocktail hour had a nod to her with a special “Mia” themed drink, custom kid cups, and fun coloring pages for all the young guests. Mia’s presence throughout the day added an extra layer of love and joy to the celebration, making it all the more special for everyone involved.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]The couple beautifully incorporated Edmundo’s Mexican heritage and the Spanish language throughout their wedding day, creating a celebration that was inclusive and culturally rich. They ensured that every guest felt welcome with bilingual signs and a stunning invitation suite from Big Little Lines, seamlessly designed in both English and Spanish. The cocktail hour was brought to life by the vibrant sounds of a live mariachi band, adding a festive and authentic touch to the celebration. And, of course, Edmundo’s custom suit featured a meaningful nod to his heritage with a Día de Los Muertos print lining, a detail that tied the day’s cultural elements together perfectly. From the music to the language to the surprise hidden suit detail, every aspect of the day celebrated their love story while honoring Edmundo’s Mexican roots.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/942186205 600 338]


Photography: The Gawnes | Event Planning: Crain + Co Events | Floral Design: Alexis Grace Florals | Wedding Dress: J Bridal Boutique | Wedding Dress: Justin Alexander | Cake: Village Bakehouse | Invitations: Big Little Lines | DJ: Fantastic Five Entertainment | Groom's Attire: Indochino | Groomsmen's Attire: Generation Tux | Wedding Venue: The Lodge at Ventana | Beauty: Heather Van Houten | Weddings Rings: Tovaa

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
How to Ensure Your First Kiss Gets Perfectly Captured, From a Wedding Photographer

Your wedding day is finally here, your favorite people are surrounding you, your dream vendor team is capturing all the incredible details and moments you have invested in.  Finally, it is time for that long-anticipated moment of your first kiss as married, swoon!  I know you want those dreamy, perfect shots for this moment, and I’m sharing my favorite tips from a photographer’s perspective on how to nail it (and make your photographer love you forever!)

Practice Ahead of Time

This is definitely a moment you will want to practice ahead of time. Why? Well, this is your iconic moment. You have to decide as a couple how you want to seal this. Do you want quick and polite, traditional, very dramatic? There are actual levels to this. However, the most important thing is you do not want any awkwardness like open eyes, teeth/head bump, or worse, a little too aggressive and you knock over that gorgeous altar arrangement you paid for! 

 

Hold it for Three Seconds 

No matter what type of kiss you decide to go for, the one thing you want to make sure you do is hold this kiss for at least three seconds, preferably five! Why? Because your photographer and videographer will have plenty of time to capture and frame the perfect shot.  If you do not hold your kiss long enough, or it is a quick peck, you risk not having the shot captured perfectly, and how sad would that be?! 

 

Go Over the Game Plan with the Officiant

Make sure at your rehearsal to practice your first kiss and get your officiant in on it as well.  You will  want your officiant to step out of the frame for that shot, so it’s a good one to practice.  Most professional officiants know to move, but if you are using a friend or family member, it is a good idea to mention it to them multiple times before the day-of! Most officiant’s will step to the left or right so there is a clear shot of the aisle.  Once they move, then you will want to go in for the kiss, and boom, you have a clear, open shot of it to remember! 

 

Kiss and Dip

My favorite first kisses start with a traditional kiss, and slowly evolves into a little bit of a dip! Then you get two different looks for your first kiss and it’s so romantic! In order for this to work best, you will need to have a space that is open enough to do this, and not too much of a logistical issue with your outfits. 

The Mid-Aisle Kiss

As you come back up the aisle with all of the cheers and clapping of your family and friends, do a mid-aisle kiss for another perfect shot! Your guests will give you a huge cheer, and it is a great way to cap off the end of your ceremony.  If you want to do a mid-aisle kiss, make sure to mention this to your photography and videography team so they can get set in the perfect locations. 

No matter what, the first kiss is a moment to remember, and it will be perfect regardless of the logistics, as celebrating love is always perfect in style! 

Photography: Sacia Matthews Photography

An Upscale Garden Party at the Felt Mansion Inspired by the Natural Beauty of Northern Michigan


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Powder blue, eucalyptus green and white.[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Inspired by the natural beauty of northern Michigan, our wedding was
designed as an upscale garden party that blended seamlessly with the outdoor surroundings.
We incorporated soft, airy details throughout the day, with blue floral patterns carried from the
invitations to the table settings and wedding party attire. To keep the look timeless and elegant,
we chose mostly white and natural flowers, allowing the florals to complement the venue without
distracting from the emotion of the day[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]We met at the end of our senior year at the University of Kentucky and hit it off
immediately! With only a few weeks left of school, we discovered we’d both be in Europe after
graduation. After traveling separately, we reunited in Prague and explored Switzerland and Italy
together. Each new place brought unforgettable experiences, and it was during this time we
realized our connection was growing into love. After returning home, we knew our adventure
was just beginning and decided to move to Chicago, close to Jake’s family and only a short
drive from Maddy’s family in Northville, Michigan.
We spent two years living just a few miles apart in downtown Chicago, making the most of the
city—biking along Lake Michigan, enjoying Sunday dinners with Jake’s family, and creating
lasting memories with friends. As we grew closer, we knew we wanted to build a future together.
When Jake received an exciting job offer in Colorado, we jumped at the chance to start our next
chapter together.
Our love for the outdoors flourished in Colorado, where we spend our free time hiking,
snowboarding, and exploring the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. While we are both dedicated
to our careers, we prioritize enjoying life together, whether it's being in the mountains or relaxing
by the pool.
The next big chapter in our journey unfolded on December 17, 2022, during a family trip for
Jake’s sister’s graduation at the Tampa Bay Yacht Club. After an afternoon walk, Jake proposed
in a private moment at the end of the dock, a setting that felt intimate and meaningful. We were
then surprised by an engagement party with both of our families, who flew in and came together
as a surprise to celebrate our love. Surrounded by their support, we knew we were embracing
not only each other but the blending of our two families.
We’re grateful for the chance that brought us together in college and for the many adventures
we’ve shared over the last five years. With a deep connection and a love for one another, we
look forward to what the future holds, wherever it may take us.[/field]
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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]I wore an Essence of Australia gown, and the experience of finding it was
unforgettable. I was joined by my mom, mother-in-law, maid of honor, and matron of honor as
we spent the day visiting bridal shops around metro Detroit. Though I thought I found my dream
dress at the first location, I decided to wait. This took the pressure off, and I was able to fully
enjoy the rest of the day, trying on dresses that fit my vision. In the end, I fell in love with a gown

that was completely different from my initial choice. The lace appliqué, deep V-neck,
comfortable fit, and detailed train made it perfect for me. I kept the dress a secret from everyone
until the big day, which made the reveal even more special.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]I worked with Bella Bridesmaids in Philadelphia, and they were fantastic.
They provided a detailed, personalized appointment to help narrow down the perfect color and
style for each of my bridesmaids. Many of my bridesmaids lived all over the country, and Bella
Bridesmaids made remote fittings seamless, ensuring everyone could participate no matter
where they were. Their team was incredibly responsive, and professional, and made the entire
process easy. I highly recommend them.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]For the groomsmen, we chose The Black Tux because it was important to
offer both rental and purchase options. Their customer service was excellent—responsive and
welcoming. The groomsmen coordinated everything through an online portal, ensuring all
pieces were accounted for without any hassle.[/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]Given the summer season, we focused on offering light, refreshing options
suited for the Michigan heat. Our signature cocktails included our favorite selections, Moscow
Mules and Old Fashioneds, while the appetizers and dinner showcased Michigan’s local
specialties, featuring cherries, vibrant natural colors, and fresh ingredients that reflected the
beauty of the season.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Our wedding design was inspired by the elegance of a sophisticated garden
party, seamlessly blending with the natural beauty of northern Michigan. We chose white, light,
and summery flowers to maintain an airy, refined ambiance. The table settings featured elegant
china plates in varied blue patterns and matching blue goblets for a cohesive and charming
look.
To create a warm and inviting atmosphere as the evening progressed, we used candles to
provide a soft, natural glow. We enhanced the space further by hanging ivy from the top of the
tent and stringing lights, which added a whimsical touch and a subtle sparkle. Our floral
arrangements included a mix of tall centerpieces, delicate bud vases, and a striking long
arrangement for the 32-person head table, offering visual interest and variety. Flowers were also
thoughtfully used to enhance the chuppah, complementing its beauty while maintaining its
central significance in the ceremony.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]To complement our design theme of simplicity and elegance, we chose a two-
tier cake adorned with a subtle hydrangea design. The cake featured a delightful almond vanilla
flavor with a refreshing lemon and raspberry filling, creating the perfect combination for a
memorable treat.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]Our ceremony was designed to reflect our
love story, the blending of our religions, and the merging of our families. We worked closely with
Jake’s childhood Rabbi, Bruce Elder, for a year to create a ceremony that was deeply personal

and meaningful. We invited seven loved ones to offer blessings on various topics, which added
a special and emotional touch.
For the ceremony music, we chose classic pieces that seamlessly blended into the background,
enhancing the atmosphere without drawing attention away from the ceremony’s significance.
As we transitioned to the reception, our band played "The Best Day of Our Lives" by American
Authors. This song perfectly captured our joy and the significance of the day, with its uplifting
lyrics resonating with the emotions we felt.
Our first dance was to "You" by Dan + Shay. The song’s lyrics, "When I look into your eyes, it's
like we're in slow motion, just me and you tonight," symbolized our commitment to each other.
The lyrics reflected how we savored every moment of our wedding day, which felt like it passed
in slow motion amidst the whirlwind of celebrations. This song perfectly encapsulated our sense
of enduring love and togetherness.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]First Looks: The first looks were unforgettable highlights of our day.
Seeing my dad’s face light up when he first saw me in my dress was a deeply emotional
moment, reflecting the profound bond we share. It was a cherished memory that captured the
essence of our father-daughter relationship, a mix of pride, love, and joy.
Having my mom help me into my dress and my mother-in-law assist with my jewelry added a
deeply personal touch. There’s nothing stronger than the bond between a mother and daughter,
and planning the wedding together made the day even more meaningful.
Seeing Jake for the first time on our wedding day, exchanging our private vows, and witnessing
his adoration made me feel like the most beautiful and cherished person. Finally, the moment
my bridesmaids saw me in my dress, which I had kept a secret, was priceless.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Hora: The Hora, a traditional dance of celebration and unity, was a
powerful moment for us. Being lifted in the chairs and looking down at the circle of family and
friends was deeply moving. It symbolized the support and love surrounding us as we embarked
on our marriage. The joy and smiles radiating from everyone in the room created an
indescribable warmth, reinforcing the strong bond of community and celebration we were
fortunate to share.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]–Vendors: Working with an incredible team of vendors made all the
difference. The personalities and professionalism of the vendors were key to ensuring
everything ran smoothly. Since many of them are with you for the entire wedding day, it’s
important to have a strong, positive working relationship. Each vendor played a pivotal role in
making our vision a reality, and their expertise allowed us to relax and enjoy the day, knowing
everything was in capable hands.[/field]
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Photography: Shanell Photography | Coordination: Posh Petals | Floral Design: Posh Petals | Wedding Dress: Essence Of Australia | Cake: Cakabakery | Invitations: Minted | Rings: Orin Jewelers | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Bella Bridesmaid | Catering: Gilmore Catering | Band: Bluewater Kings Band | Groom's Attire: The Black Tux | Beauty: Ashley MacPherson | Historic Mansion: The Felt Mansion | Rentals: Gigi & LaClede | Rentals: Alpine Events | Rentals: Special Occasions | bridal clutch: Loeffler Randall | bridal shoes: Bella Belle Shoes | hair piece: Eden B Studio | perfume: Jo Malone | place cards: Open Air Paper | veil: Etsy Shop Valery Dress

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
A Wedding Weekend Full of Fashion and a Celebration of Cultures at Baja Luna


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Pinks, whites, and greenery[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Our wedding was on May 26, 2024, at Baja Luna in Los Cabos, Mexico with 140 of our closest friends and family. We had taken a trip to Cabo just before the pandemic and had always wanted to share the fun of that trip with our friends and family. Since we had guests coming from various places around the world, we wanted to be able to give our guests an excuse for a fun and lively vacation as well. When it came time to plan the weekend, we wanted to prioritize being able to spend meaningful time with each guest at the wedding and to build an atmosphere of fun and joy. We worked closely with our planners, Grace and Jessica at Amy Abbott Events, to curate the weekend’s events and locations with those goals in mind. I can’t imagine our wedding without the Amy Abbott Events team. They were detail-oriented, creative, and truly so wonderful to work with. Their level of service far exceeded our wildest expectations and made the weekend go by completely stress-free. Ultimately, we chose Baja Luna as our wedding venue, because we wanted a venue that was hidden from the prying eyes of resort guests and wanted amazing food. Transparently, I also saw Baja Luna in a TikTok and immediately sent it to Josh. Josh and I love to eat and wanted to make sure we were able to share the phenomenal Baja cuisine with all of our guests and Baja Luna did not disappoint. We had multiple guests comment on how they had never had wedding food so good. Some stars included the sea bass ceviche, braised brisket, and churro cart with dipping sauces. We wanted to focus on bringing culture, food, good energy, and good tequila (we kept Clase Azul flowing all night) to our wedding weekend. We wanted a good blend between what Los Cabos had to offer and our essence as a couple. One of our primary goals of the weekend was for our guests to let loose and have fun. Even before the official wedding events started for all guests, Josh and I went out to bars and clubs with the 40 or 50 guests who had already arrived in Cabo on Thursday and Friday as an unofficial prelude to the weekend ahead.

[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Josh and I met in 2018 through what can only be described as countless right decisions and coincidences; some might even say fate. I had just driven back to San Francisco from Lake Tahoe with some of my co-workers at the time, Won Soh, was stuck in what felt like an eternity of traffic; so when he asked to share an Uber from the rental car location to a Superbowl party he was headed to, even the major extrovert in me balked for a second. Once he gave me the address, I realized the party was in the exact building I was living in at the time. When we arrived at my building, I was so excited to go home and take a long nap, so I, again, balked when Won asked if I wanted to swing by the Superbowl party he was headed to. It was only when he mentioned that the girl hosting the party had just gotten a new puppy that I immediately warmed to the idea of swinging by. When I arrived at the party, Josh and I hit it off after he cracked a few cheesy dad jokes about one of the commercials. We ended up talking for so long that his friends were waiting by the door long after the football game had ended, joking that they’d never be able to get him to leave. Shortly after the game, Josh messaged me on Instagram, saying “I don’t know how, but I’ll admit you won the dog’s affection today” to which I responded “Honestly, you put up a valiant effort but it was never a fair fight”, which kicked off the next 58 months of us dating before Josh proposed. Josh summarized our first encounter well in his vows, by saying: “We met at a Superbowl party you weren’t interested in, directly after a ski trip to Tahoe that you… also weren’t interested in. I’ll never stop thinking how lucky I am that between all of that, you decided to take an interest in me. Given football, beers, and strangers wouldn’t entice you to come, I’m glad you at least wanted to see the dog there. I’m not sure if I have my cynical dad jokes to thank, or a force of nature, but talking to you that night turned out to be the most important conversation of my life.” Who proposed? When and how? Shortly after meeting at the Super Bowl party, we went on a short hike in the Marin headlands to a beautiful viewpoint called Slacker Hill. While admiring the view, a stranger commented on how sweet we looked together and insisted on taking a photo of us together. 58 months later, in November of 2022, Josh took me back to Slacker Hill and used that photo as the cover to a photo book he had put together, with one page for every month that we had been dating and “Will you marry me?” on the 58th page. Afterward, we celebrated our engagement with a night in Sonoma at dinner at our favorite restaurant, SingleThread Farm, before heading back to the city the next day for an intimate dinner with our immediate families.

[/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

Fashion was a huge part of the weekend for me. Mixing old and new was one of my primary goals, along with incorporating color across as many events as possible; truly getting a bit of something new, something old, and something blue. I worked with Ambrosia from Sincerely Ambrosia (who I also found via TikTok) on styling for all 9 looks. Ambrosia was truly instrumental in helping push me outside of my usual comfort zone and I’m so grateful for her guidance on every step of the way. First up: on Friday, I wore a white silk Khaite dress for photos on the beach with our photographer, Sarah Falugo. Given all of the looks we had, we made sure to carve out some extra time for photos. Sarah truly made every single photo shoot feel so natural and fun. As Josh and I were reflecting on the weekend, we both agreed that the times we spent taking photos with Sarah were some of our favorite times of the whole weekend where we were able to just enjoy each other’s company and be ourselves. My favorite part of this look was when we started to run towards the water and Josh lifted me and got completely soaked in the process! Josh wore a Rag and Bone knit shirt and (soaked) Paige tan chinos. For our Family Shabbat dinner, I wore a Spring / Summer 2004 tropical orchid-covered Versace gown which we sourced multiple sizes too big and my amazing tailor, Lisa Hoang, helped make it fit like a glove. I paired this dress with matching orchid earrings and some pink platform Christian Louboutin heels for a colorful moment in the jungle. This dress was truly a dream. Josh wore a custom Suit Supply navy suit, a custom Proper Cloth shirt, and Aurélien loafers. After we wrapped up with our families and Rabbis, we went out to a club with some of our close friends. I wore a beaded blue ocean-themed Clio Peppiatt Dress with matching coral earrings as an homage to Cabo. The next day, we kicked off the day with our pool party where I wore a Spring / Summer 2018 Chanel swimsuit and silk coverup. My tailor, Lisa Hoang, also helped turn some of the hemmed portions of the swimsuit cover-up into a headband for an awesome 70s-inspired look. When we were planning these looks, Josh and I were watching “Why Women Kill” and I was so inspired by Lucy Liu that we went for a 60s / 70s inspired blue eye, big curls, and a headband. Nicole Iyer from Samara Beauty truly crushed this look and it was one of my favorites of the weekend. Josh wore a Bottega Veneta swimsuit and an embroidered shirt by Wax London. Later Saturday evening, for our Ketubah signing, I wore a custom hand-embellished nude/gold dress made by Lisa N. Hoang, who I found on TikTok. When I was looking for a dress for this event, I had so many different ideas, but I knew I wanted to use an AAPI designer for the look regardless of what I did. After searching for months, I couldn’t find anything I was inspired by so I decided to go a custom route. After I saw a TikTok Lisa had posted, I immediately reached out. I sent Lisa some inspiration and she immediately sent me back sketches and her thoughts. She was truly a dream to work with. For this dress, I wanted to incorporate red and gold which are lucky colors in Chinese culture. Red is linked to love, success, happiness, prosperity, luck, fertility, honor, and loyalty, while gold is a symbol of wealth. The dress was a two-part dress made up of a structured and hand-beaded mini dress with thousands of red and pink Swarovski crystals and a detachable inner tulle skirt, and I lovingly referred to this dress as my “jellyfish dress” throughout the entire process. I flew down to LA multiple times for fittings and I loved working with Lisa so much that I begged her to tailor all of the other looks for the weekend. Josh wore a linen suit by 120% Lino, a custom twill shirt by Proper Cloth, and John Lobb shoes. On the wedding morning, I got ready in a vintage pink 1970s peignoir & nightgown which was the perfect flowy accompaniment to the warm Cabo morning. Josh spent the morning getting ready with his groomsmen and our fathers. As a part of Persian tradition, the groom is meant to not put anything on himself, so each one of his Groomsmen and our dads helped him put everything on from his wedding-day cologne (Xanaboud by Perfumehead) to his bowtie. For the wedding day, Josh wore a custom SuitSupply tuxedo, a custom Proper Cloth tuxedo shirt, and Crockett and Jones shoes. My bridesmaids wore festive shades of pink, orange, and yellow with plenty of festive texture as a nod to Cabo. For the ceremony, I chose a strapless lace drop-waist gown by Lee Petra Grebenau from their Spring / Summer 2024 collection. I must have tried on at least 50 dresses. I had the hardest time finding my dress and was convinced that I wouldn’t find one in time. Despite having a strong vision for all of the other looks for the weekend, I had no specific vision of what I was looking for for my ceremony dress which made it even harder. All I knew was that I wanted something that felt feminine while still making a statement. When I finally saw my dress in an Instagram story of a Lee Petra Grebenau trunk show at Jaxon James Couture Bridal in West Hollywood, I booked the next flight down to try it on. Once I tried it on and found out it was made to measure right to my measurements, it made the decision even easier. I loved the dramatic long train and the intricate lace details. After the ceremony, I changed into a Spring / Summer 2016 intricately beaded Versace gown. When we first sourced this, it was not only multiple sizes too big but also in need of some real TLC. My tailor, Lisa Hoang, painstakingly deconstructed the dress and re-beaded major portions of it so that it fit like a glove and was sturdy enough to withstand dancing! A true labor of love in the name of (almost) vintage fashion. I danced the night away in a fun short Danielle Frankel dress and Stuart Weitzman platform heels until 2 am! I had brought another pair of shoes but was having so much fun on the dance floor that I never even left to change into them.

[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]My bridesmaids wore festive shades of pink, orange, and yellow with plenty of festive texture as a nod to Cabo.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”][/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

Ultimately, we chose Baja Luna as our wedding venue, because we wanted a venue that was hidden from the prying eyes of resort guests and wanted amazing food. Transparently, I also saw Baja Luna in a TikTok and immediately sent it to Josh. Josh and I love to eat and wanted to make sure we were able to share the phenomenal Baja cuisine with all of our guests and Baja Luna did not disappoint. We had multiple guests comment on how they had never had wedding food so good. Some stars included the sea bass ceviche, braised brisket, and churro cart with dipping sauces

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]For the flowers, we emphasized pinks, whites, and greenery to compliment the beautiful tropical backdrop. My overall vision was to keep everything feeling very organic with texture and draped elements. For example, for our escort cards, I wanted it to look like the flowers were growing out of the table that we had placed the escort cards on.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”][/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

I had reached out to Sarah Falugo before Josh and I were even engaged. I love the editorial yet authentic eye she brings to wedding photography and we’re so grateful to have had her on our team.

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]On both the Ketubah signing night and the night of the wedding at midnight we did a “Gol Baroon” which is a Persian rose petal tradition where all of the guests encircle the bride and groom and throw rose petals on them while the song “Yar Mobarak” by Shahram Solati plays.
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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

On the inside of Josh’s wedding band, we engraved “我愛你” which means “I love you” in Chinese, and on the inside of my wedding band, we engraved “عشق مني” which means “my love” in Farsi.

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Photography: Sarah Falugo | Videography: McNeill Films | Florals: Cristina Gonzalez | Ceremony Venue: Baja Luna | Reception Venue: Baja Luna | Hair and makeup: Samara Beauty | After Party Dress: Danielle Frankel | Ceremony gown: Lee Petra Grebenau from Jaxon James | Couture Bridal: Jaxon James | Getting ready: JW Marriot Los Cabos | Planning: Amy Abbott Events | Productions: Stage Pro Cabo | Reception dress: /S 2016 Versace | Rentals: Cristina G rentals | Rentals: Warehouse Rentals | Tailoring: Lisa Hoang | rentals: Yaya Rentals

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Minimalist Charm Was the Anchor of Their Maui Summer Nuptials


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

Mary and Brando’s wedding day exuded an effortlessly romantic and minimalist charm. The celebration was rooted in a natural color palette of soft whites and neutral beige tones, with the timeless elegance of white serving as the anchor throughout. Accents of olive green, delicately woven into the natural foliage, added a refreshing hint of color.

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

Their wedding was the perfect blend of classic elegance and romantic charm, with a minimal yet inviting design. Soft, timeless details like lush florals and sparkling chandeliers created an intimate atmosphere, while the understated decor allowed their love to take center stage. This beautiful celebration was the epitome of effortless romance and sophisticated style.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

Our bride looked absolutely stunning in her Ines Di Santo gown, exuding elegance and timeless beauty with every step.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”][/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Our groom looked dashing in a custom tuxedo, made even more special with a personalized touch—a liner adorned with photos of the couple, adding a heartfelt and unique detail to his ensemble.[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

Guests were treated to two signature drinks: the bold and sophisticated Samurai, a whiskey cocktail infused with Asian pear, charred cedar bitters, and a touch of lemon oil; and the refreshingly vibrant Salted Lemon, a blend of fresh-pressed cantaloupe, watermelon, lime, simple syrup, and reposado tequila. These signature sips perfectly complemented the evening’s celebration, adding a personal and flavorful touch to the festivities. The menu was a culinary delight, featuring macadamia nut-crusted Hawaiian catch with lilikoi butter and papaya gastrique, accompanied by coconut forbidden rice. Guests also enjoyed sous vide beef filet served with garlic mashed potatoes, Maui onion soubise, gorgonzola, and shallot panzanella crumble. The appetizers brought a local flair, including Hamachi miso yaki musubi, truffle mushroom risotto, beef tenderloin bruschetta, and Hawaiian ahi poke bowls. It was a feast that perfectly blended island flavors with gourmet elegance.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Their wedding ceremony took place near the trees, angled perfectly toward the ocean at the beautiful Olowalu Plantation House. The aisle was elegantly lined with white rose petals, with stunning floral arrangements marking the start of the walk. At the ceremony’s focal point, Mary and Brando stood beneath a breathtaking halo floral arch, symbolizing their union.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Our couple’s wedding cake was a vision of understated elegance—a single tier adorned with delicate white orchids, embodying simplicity and refined beauty.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Following their ceremony, guests were treated to a relaxed cocktail hour by the water, where they enjoyed serene ocean views. A mix of chic high-top and low cocktail tables, complemented by stylish chairs and cozy lounge areas, were thoughtfully arranged to create inviting spaces for mingling. Garnish provided expertly crafted cocktails, perfect for sipping as the sun set. The elegant lounge setup enhanced the ambiance, offering a comfortable yet sophisticated area for guests to unwind before the evening’s dinner and dancing began.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

After the cocktail hour, guests dined at elegantly arranged long tables adorned with textured linens. The tables featured flowing ivory-colored runners, complemented by a sea of candles and glassware brimming with white roses, creating a soft, romantic glow. Overhead, bistro lights twinkled, casting an intimate ambiance, while stunning chandeliers hung above the dining area, adding a touch of timeless elegance. Our bride and groom were seated at a beautifully designed sweetheart table, illuminated by a breathtaking chandelier with cascading flowers and glowing candles, perfectly showcasing them throughout the evening.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

A special of their wedding was their interactive seating chart adorned with personalized mini tequila bottles, adding a unique and playful touch. Each bottle was customized with a tag displaying the guest’s name and table assignment, offering a memorable keepsake for attendees. The thoughtful table numbers guided guests to their designated tables, where beautifully crafted menus or place cards marked their individual seats, ensuring a seamless and elegant dining experience. We absolutely loved their creative twist on the seating chart, transforming it into a stylish hydration wall. As the evening transitioned into dancing, refreshing coconut waters were thoughtfully displayed, allowing guests to grab a drink and stay energized on the dance floor.

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Photography: Dmitri and Sandra Photography | Event Planning: Opihi Love Wedding Planning and Design | Floral Design: Bella Bloom Floral Boutique | Gown: Ines Di Santo | Cake: Maui Wedding Cakes | Catering: Cutting Edge Catering | Hair and Makeup: Meili Autumn Beauty | DJ: Joseph Soul | Tux: Gaetano | Venue: Olowalu Plantation House | Bar: Garnish Craft Cocktail Catering | Custom Signs: Miss B Calligraphy | Dress Alterations: A-Z Alterations & Tailoring | Linen Rentals: Reve Maui | Photobooth: The Spotlight Photobooth | Rentals: Rio Event Design | Rentals: Artisan Events | Rentals: Reve Maui | Tabletop: Set Collections | Video: Zeb Films | Violinist: Andrea Walls

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Balancing High Fashion With Nature at Gulf Stream Golf Club


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

The wedding color palette was playful, colorful, and soft. The color palette was: A soft yellow (pale or pastel yellow) A light grayish white A light lavender or pale purple A light blush pink A muted coral or rose pink A soft sage green A deeper muted olive green These shades create a balanced and soft color palette with both warm and cool tones.

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

The overall vision for this wedding is a luxurious, outdoor celebration filled with soft, romantic florals and delicate, whimsical details. It balances high fashion with nature, creating an event that feels both chic and personal. Soft pastel tones and lush garden-inspired florals will set a beautiful, ethereal tone, while the elegant venue and thoughtfully curated details will reflect the couple’s story. The butterflies hold a very personal meaning, serving as a heartfelt nod to the bride’s sister who has passed, adding a deeply emotional and significant touch to the day. The focus is on creating a visually stunning experience for the guests, ensuring that every element, from the fashion to the florals, is as beautiful and refined as possible while honoring the people and moments that hold the most importance to the couple.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”][/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

The bride was an Alex Perry dress paired with Manolo Blahnik shoes. And then changed into a Markarian dress for the reception.

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

The food and drink were catered by the hosting venue Gulf Stream Golf Club.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The florals were provided and designed by the hosting venue Gulf Stream Golf Club. The floral arrangements and lush bouquet, emphasize an organic, garden-like atmosphere. The use of wildflowers and pastel-colored blooms signals a design inspired by nature, yet curated in a high-end, structured way.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The couple did not have a cake, but instead a gelato and ice cream bar. [/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

Ceremony Processional Parents of the bride: May I have this dance – Francis & the Lights Bridesmaids and Ring Bearers: Iris – The Goo Goo Dolls Bride and Brother: Wildest Dreams – Taylor Swift Ceremony Recessional: This will be (An Everlasting Love) Bride & Groom Reception Introduction: Bittersweet Symphony Mother-Son Dance: Forever Young – Rod Stewart Mother-Daughter Dance: Dog Years – Maggie Rogers First Dance: Into The Mystic – Van Morrison Intro song to open dancing: I Wanna Dance With Somebody

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

The butterfly motif woven throughout the wedding details held deep significance as a tribute to the bride’s late sister, who had recently passed. Butterflies were incorporated thoughtfully into the theme, symbolizing transformation, remembrance, and the connection they shared. In a particularly emotional moment during the couple’s portraits, they walked together to the butterfly garden on the Gulf Stream Golf Club property, a serene spot where they could pause and reflect. Surrounded by fluttering butterflies, it became a poignant and intimate moment, offering a quiet sense of connection to her sister’s memory amidst the celebration. The inclusion of butterflies throughout the wedding wasn’t just a design choice—it was a deeply personal and heartfelt reminder of love, loss, and the spirit of her sister watching over them on their special day. The bride even had a cutout from her mother’s dress sown into her wedding dress as a butterfly. This was a surprise from the bride to her family.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

The bride was walked down the aisle by her brother.

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Photography: Shauna and Jordon | Cinematography: Miguel Garcia Studios | Event Planning: Anna Caroline Weddings | Invitations: Fiore Press | Makeup: Gem Makeup Artistry | Wedding Venue: Gulf Stream Golf Club | Entertainmennt: Gold Coast All Stars | Rehearsal Dinner Venue: The Ocean Club of Florida | Rentals: Atlas Event Rentals | Rentals: Stradley Davidson Linen Collective | Violinist: Master Musicians

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
A Chic Garden Wedding With a Tropical Twist at Hemingway Home


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

Orange, hot pink, Light Pink, Pink, yellow, peach, green

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

We wanted to design a chic garden wedding with a tropical twist with vibrant pinks, tangerines, and all the fruits in between

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Vanessa called me in June 2023, she was planning her wedding in April 2024 and needed a wedding planner. She was just like every other client, not sure where to start, but Vanessa also had a newborn baby and a full-time career. Vanessa had one BIG request for her intimate wedding, she asked me to please make it look “like a styled photo shoot” (by the way, this is every wedding planner’s DREAM CLIENT!!!) We spent a lot of time thinking about design and colors. We didn’t want the traditional wedding palette, we wanted a chic fun tropical vibe. She chose bold colors and tropical colorful flowers. The result had us smitten.

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Enzoani – Pavane Couture Bridal in Saint Petersburg

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

Jack Victor (Nordstrom)

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]The menu focused on local FL keys seafood featuring local lobster, grouper and beef tenderloin. The signature drink was the bride’s favorite drink, Aperol Spritz. [/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

The colors and flower choices were bold tropical and bright. Even the linens pushed boundaries by taking a bright risk which made the design impeccable.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Black Bottom Key Lime Tarts with fresh berries [/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
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Photography: Iris Moore Photography | Design: Blue Thistle Studio | Design: BBJ La Tavola | Design: Table Seven | Event Planning: Vicky Furman Events | Floral Design: Duarte Floral Design | Wedding Dress: Enzoani | Reception Venue: Ernest Hemingway Home | Catering: Great Events Catering | Beauty: makeup n giggles | Rentals: Eventually Yours

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Pastel Perfection in a Whimsical English Wonderland at Avington Park


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

Muted lilacs & lavenders, dusky pinks and forest greens

[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]A relaxed, fun & beautiful bespoke celebration of A&W with a whimsical yet romantic woodland vibe.[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]

In February 2023, we escaped to the countryside for a peaceful weekend. After breakfast and a morning walk, W. proposed with a placeholder ring, knowing A. wanted to design her own. She said yes—but with a twist. A. handed him a set of Uno cards to choose from. When he drew a ‘reverse’ card, A. got down on one knee and proposed back with a candy ring. Suspecting his plan, she had secretly packed the cards and candy, ready to surprise him in return.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]A. wore a gorgeous Justin Alexander dress (Denley dress) bought from Angelica Bridal in London.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

As the bridesmaids were coming from all over the world the dresses were from a range of stores. They were a range of greens to fit with the forest-y enchanted vibes of the day.

[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]In keeping with the traditional English manor house vibes, the groomsmen all wore traditional morning suits. [/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]

The food and drink were an important element to the couple. With the bride originally coming from Thailand and the groom enjoying a mostly vegan diet it was important to find a caterer who could deliver on their vision to infuse both elements to the day. Caper & Berry created a couple of bespoke canapes based on the bride’s favorite recipes such as Tofu Satay and also a wonderful evening food spread of bao buns that was a big success. After dinner, there was a very impressive dessert station that was a huge hit, as were the delicious cocktails & mocktails available at the bar. The Lychee Lantern cocktail (again a favorite of the brides) was a big success with guests as was the ever-popular espresso martini!

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Ella Hartig Events worked with the couple to design a day that was both romantic and elegant but also whimsical with a woodland vibe that made it stand out from being just another traditional pretty English wedding. The gorgeous florals by Sarah at The Way to Bloom transformed the day into a beautiful whimsical celebration. Sarah created the most stunning tree wrap to frame the heartfelt wedding ceremony. It felt like the florals were growing up and around the couple as they exchanged their vows. The whimsical woodland vibes continued in the wedding breakfast where beautiful blooms were interspersed with moss to make it feel like the elegant florals were all naturally growing around guests as they enjoyed their meal. The Elliana chairs provided by House of Furn helped elevate the design of the orangery for dinner, they were also super comfortable! Finally, the tabletop design and stationery by the bride all helped bring together this beautiful concept.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

In place of a traditional wedding cake, A&W opted for a dessert station instead. This not only looked Amazing, it also gave guests a range of different sweet treats to choose from and provided a much more interactive experience. Guests enjoyed the dessert station alongside a post dinner cocktail hour which meant everyone got a chance to get up and chat to people that they had not been sat next to at dinner before the dancing commenced.

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

The bride’s entrance was to You and I by Michael Bublé. The ceremony consisted of a ring warming where the couple’s wedding rings were passed around to each guest to bless them, as this happened the musicians played Lava Pixar Animation Studios. The couple wrote their heartfelt vibes and the ceremony was officiated by a dear friend. There was a reading from Captain Corelli, a blessing from the groom’s sister, and then a final reading from The Rabbits Wedding Book (with the full book in tow as a fun visual!), making it all feel very heartfelt and personal. The couple exited to Your Love Keeps Lifting Me Higher and Higher.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

The surprise arrival by boat – After the ceremony the couple were driven off in the venue’s classic car to enjoy a special moment alone. Whilst guests wandered round to the other side of the estate to enjoy a riverside reception, the bride and groom boarded their very own private boat transfer, complete with a glass of fizz for the journey. As the couple approached the riverside location it was amazing to see guests slowly realise that the boat approaching was their guests of honour. It made for a really special wow moment, alongside a great photo opp, whilst also providing the couple with some very special time just to themselves on the journey down.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Bridal prep was a really lovely moment with the girls all enjoying some sparkling tea and exchanging gifts and heartfelt moments before the ceremony. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

All the stationery was lovingly designed by the bride herself.

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Photography: Cristina Ilao Photography | Cinematography: DAETANO DI GIACOMO | Event Planning: Ella Hartig | Floral Design: The Way to Bloom | Ceremony Venue: Avington Park | Reception Venue: Avington Park | Catering: Caper & Berry | Band: Truly Medley Deeply | AV: Farnham Light & Sound | Beauty: Lauren Irwin | Furniture: House Of Furn

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
A Whimsical Destination Wedding Weekend at Chateau de Vezins in France


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

Kim and Chris carefully chose a sophisticated and harmonious color palette for their wedding. The welcome dinner featured a bold yet soft “French Blue” theme, highlighted by cascading blue hydrangeas, creating a beautiful and distinctive effect. On the wedding day, the primary color theme shifted to elegant whites and golds, while the bridesmaids wore royal blue silk dresses that tied back to the welcome dinner’s palette. This subtle combination of colors gave the event a timeless and romantic ambiance.

[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]The wedding design was an exquisite balance of modernity, elegance, and personal touches. For the pre-wedding welcome dinner, Kim and Chris chose bold, soft blue tones, with blue hydrangeas prominently featured to honor Kim’s mother’s garden—a deeply sentimental and unique element of the day.

The day of the wedding reflected a different, more refined ambiance: an all-white palette with gold accents created a sophisticated, timeless aesthetic. The reception featured a magnificent 8-meter-long banquet table draped in custom mirror-topped linens, reflecting luxurious chandeliers above, all beautifully arranged by Malkani Design and L’Art de Table Paris. The inclusion of lush greenery softened the grandeur, adding an air of enchantment to the outdoor setting.[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Kim and Chris first met at the European Restaurant in Melbourne, and their connection was instant. Kim fondly recalls how romantic their first meeting was and how she fell in love with Chris’s handsome looks and, of course, his great beard! Their story is one of romance, elegance, and shared moments of joy, much like the wedding they created.

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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Kim stunned in four different dresses throughout the wedding weekend. For the welcome dinner, she wore a form-fitting blue gown with a dramatic train, perfectly setting the tone for the evening. On the wedding day, she opted for a show-stopping white mermaid gown with an overskirt that featured a detachable train and an oversized bow. Her third look was a regal purple princess gown for the first dance, capturing the magic of the moment. To cap off the evening, she slipped into a grey-blue dress, a red-carpet-worthy choice, for the fireworks display.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The bridesmaids wore elegant royal blue silk dresses that beautifully complemented the wedding’s sophisticated color palette. Their look added a bold yet refined touch, standing out perfectly against the classic French Abbaye setting.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The groom and groomsmen kept things traditional yet dashing with their formal morning suits, complete with tails and top hats for the ceremony. Later in the evening, they switched to tuxedos, adding a sleek and modern twist to the reception’s chic vibe.[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

The couple worked with Boteco Dani Ortiz, a private chef, to offer a custom culinary experience for their guests. The entire weekend was a gastronomic journey, with dishes made to order and featuring French classics like beef tartare and duck à l’orange. The chef’s on-site presence ensured that the couple and their guests were treated to personalized meals that felt as intimate as they were luxurious.

[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Kim’s love of flowers was truly celebrated throughout the wedding decor, with Malkani Design bringing her vision to life. The welcome dinner showcased bold blue hydrangeas, a heartfelt nod to her mother’s garden.

For the wedding day, the decor was opulent yet refined, with an all-white theme accented by gold. The banquet table was adorned with lush white floral arrangements, set in delicate Médicis vases provided by L’Art de la Table. Silk Event Paris added a magical touch with chandeliers draped in greenery, creating a captivating contrast. The final touch was hundreds of candles scattered throughout the venue, creating a warm, romantic glow as the evening unfolded.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

Kim and Chris chose an exquisite all-white pièce montée for their wedding cake. Decorated with cascading white flowers, the cake was both a stunning visual centerpiece and a delicious treat, perfectly aligned with the day’s elegant and romantic aesthetic.

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

Kim and Chris wanted to make sure their celebration was alive with music and emotion. The reception was accompanied by live music from the Popcorn Factory Orchestra, who kept the atmosphere vibrant throughout the evening. The heartfelt speeches from friends and family, combined with the live band, created unforgettable moments during the dinner and reception. The couple’s first dance was particularly memorable, with the enchanting ambiance enhanced by the beautiful music.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

Kim and Chris opted for an intimate, micro wedding, with only their closest friends and family present. This intimate gathering created an exclusive, heartfelt atmosphere that allowed the couple to truly savor every moment with their guests. Coming from Australia, the couple wanted to create a magical French experience that their guests would never forget. Kim and Chris both share a deep love for historic churches and breathtaking architecture, and Fontevraud was simply perfect for them. The Abbey’s sleek sophistication and monumental presence created an awe-inspiring atmosphere. The couple felt drawn to the historical significance of this place, appreciating its elegant and timeless design, which echoed the sophisticated vision they had for their wedding. Chris discovered Château de Vézins, and they instantly knew it was the perfect place. They were looking for a location that could combine history, sophistication, and culture—elements they found to be uniquely intertwined at the château. Hosting friends and family from around the world in such a stunning and intimate setting was incredibly important to them. The week-long stay at the château allowed their loved ones to fully experience the beauty of the French countryside while enjoying each other’s company in a luxurious yet welcoming environment.

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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]To add a personal touch, Kim and Chris had a custom-built bar. This bespoke element added a unique charm to the cocktail hour, giving guests a one-of-a-kind experience as they enjoyed the couple’s signature drinks.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

When asked if there was a particular vendor or detail that stood out, Kim, our beautiful bride, responded: “Morgane Ball took some of the most beautiful photos I have ever seen! She is amazing, attentive, and I hope she decides to come to Melbourne, Australia.

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Photography: Morgane Ball | Cinematography: Audric Odrian Filmmaker | Event Design: Malkani Design | Event Planning: Maria Planner | Cake: Delicieusement sucre | Ceremony Venue: Abbaye de Fontevraud | Reception Venue: Chateau de Vezins | Catering: Boteco Daniortiz Robertortiz | Beauty: Lindsay Raud | Beauty: Hairstyle Podium | Bridal shoes: Jimmy Choo | Musicians: PopCorn Factory | Rentals: L'art de table.paris | Rentals: Silkevent.paris | Rentals: Rentaluxparis | Rentals: Maison options | fireworks: Pyro Concept

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
A Vibrant & Fashionable Three-Day Destination Wedding in Mexico


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

The vision for the wedding was created after walking into Dolce and Gabbana in Beverly Hills on Rodeo Drive. We found these stunning sequin jackets in cheetah and snow leopard prints this was the basis for the wedding vision. Many aspects of their wedding design were inspired by Estevan and Michael’s clothing, such as the reception menus that copied Estevan and Michael’s Dolce & Gabbana jackets. Also, the rehearsal dinner decorations had the same colors as their outfits. Michael wanted to incorporate pink into the wedding and I (Estevan) wanted to incorporate the natural greenery around Los Cabos so we married pink and green together as the basis of our monogram, invites, florals, and beyond. I also wanted to ensure we had fireworks at the wedding so the venue selection was predicated on that and that alone. Once we found the perfect venue for fireworks we built everything else around that.

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

We are both Mexican so we thought it would be amazing to have a wedding in Mexico. I love the water so it was important to also have water be a part of the wedding. Michael loves a party vibe so Cabo gave us everything we wanted. Both our mothers immigrated from Mexico so there is a special meaning to being back in their home country. We wanted vibrant colors that represented Mexico. The style was organic and loose. The entrance doors to the ceremony had the invitation logo as a detail, while the reception became a tropical oasis, full of leaves, exotic flowers in shades of pink and red, disco balls, and tropical fruits. We used black tables and chairs in combination with natural wood tables to have a modern, sophisticated and tropical style. Our wedding was a very involved concept and buildout. The reception space was completely transformed into a tropical disco wonderland. The ceremony was kept simple as we let the ocean behind us do most of the work with a beautiful pink arch framing us for the big moment. The buildout for the reception required many vendors and staff to ensure everything was perfect from the hand-painted dance floor to the grand piano, to the LED wall installation, our guest’s eyes were always stimulated. Everything was personalized but the most personal touch was the custom menus designed to mirror our Dolce and Gabbana sequin tuxedos. They were so elegant and so unique to our wedding. We wanted menus that had never been used before at any wedding we’d attended. During the three days, the things that were personalized and the most fun were the hand-painted pink bar with hanging piñatas at the Welcome Party and the tablecloths with Mexican detail. On the wedding day day, the dance floor was made especially for them with the design of their invitations, the menus matched their D&G outfits.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

To this day Estevan still claims to not remember meeting Michael through his ex-boyfriend. Because that version of their story isn’t as romantic as how they met the second time, on the internet. What also wasn’t romantic was how a few months into their courtship a global pandemic began and Michael went into quarantine with his writing partner. So Estevan and Michael embarked on a seven-month, long-distance relationship, three miles apart. Their courtship consisted of backyard social distance dates and hikes where they agreed not to tell anyone that they stopped to make out in the bushes. But in those bushes, the foundation of their relationship grew strong. Because if their fledgling relationship could survive a pandemic, they could thrive in marriage. Their engagement took place on a beach in Malibu. It was Michael’s 30th birthday and he had just had an emotional breakdown and dyed his hair platinum blonde. He pulled it off well, though, the blonde hair. He might bring it back after the wedding, but that’s not the point of this story. The point is that Estevan tricked him into thinking that he wasn’t ready for marriage and that they needed more time, so when he got down on one knee, Michael was genuinely surprised. It was the second time Estevan had proposed, though. The first time was on their third week of dating when Estevan got drunk and professed his love to Michael after chucking a piece of pizza into the road. We don’t know what happened to that pizza, but what we do know is that their engagement had felt destined since the day those pepperonis hit the pavement. Michael exchanged the favor and proposed to Estevan in front of his mother and family the week after Estevan popped the question. It wasn’t as romantic, though, because Michael was chewing a tortilla the entire time, but Estevan still cried. And they’ve been planning a spectacular wedding ever since!

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

Info about the wedding look: Welcome Party: Custom Zenga Suits Shoes by Taft and Fratelli Rossetti Gucci and Vercase accessories Rehearsal dinner: Suits by Bode Shoes by Tom Ford and Taft Wedding: Custom Tuxedo by Dolce and Gabanna Sequin Tuxedo Jacket by Dolce and Gabanna Shirts by Dolce and Gabanna Shoes by Alexander McQueen and Christian Louboutin

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

Bridesmaids’ dresses were hot pink, to match the vibrant florals.

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

The couple had a champagne tower accompanied by majestic fireworks.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Pink tropical flowers and lots of green plants set the scene for this tropical disco. From the boutonnières to the tables to the 16-foot-tall wall and lighting installations, to the hanging flowers and plants above the dance floor, there was always something pink and green to look at. All the flowers that were used for the three events were natural; for the first day, the florists at Lola del Campo used flowers of all colors with a Mexican style to define the “kermes” type decoration. On the second day of the rehearsal dinner, we used flowers in earth tones with dry touches. For the big day, we used flowers like David Austin roses, orchids, tulips, anthuriums, proteas, all kinds of leaves and ferns, and millions of ferns to dress the walls of the place and turn the place into a jungle full of color and flowers.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Estevan sang Adele’s cover of “make you feel my love” for Michael. Estevan used to be a professional musical theater performer and Michael had never experienced Estevan perform before. It was a surprise and there wasn’t a dry tear in the audience. Michael surprised the guests with a standup set. Michael is a successful screenwriter focusing on comedy. By the end of his set everyone’s cheeks were sore from smiling and laughing so hard. [/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

The ceremony was the most anticipated moment of the day as we both wrote our vows. Also highly anticipated were both of our performances. Estevan sang Adele’s cover of “Make You Feel My Love” for Michael. Estevan used to be a professional musical theater performer and Michael had never experienced Estevan perform before. It was a surprise and there wasn’t a dry tear in the audience. Michael surprised the guests with a standup set. Michael is a successful screenwriter focusing on comedy. By the end of his set everyone’s cheeks were sore from smiling and laughing so hard.

[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]What made the day unique?

Flying in RuPaul Drag Queen superstar Alyssa Edwards to perform and get the dance floor all warmed up!
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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

Do you have any wedding planning or marriage advice that you’d like to share with other couples planning their day? The mantra of our wedding planning process was “more is more” and we are glad to say we were right. Any wedding tips? Hire a wedding planner. You will never regret it and you’ll save yourself a few grey hairs. Also, take a moment alone with your spouse after the ceremony. Take it the moment and savor the moment you two just experienced.

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Photography: LA76 Photography | Cinematography: Cinematic Touch | Event Design: Lola Del Campo Events | Event Planning: Lola Del Campo | Floral Design: let it bloom | Ceremony Venue: The Cape Hotel | Beauty: Piel Canela | Location: El Huerto | Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Acre Resort

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
All Things PINK for This Black Tie Summer Fête at the Seclusion


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]All things PINK! blush pink; rose[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Pink is one of my favorite colors and coincidentally, my dresses, design, and decor were an ode to this color palette. My wedding design and decor were very much inspired by my reception party dress by Hermione de Paula. The pretty pink floral print pushed me to lean into PINK throughout all aspects of my wedding! My vision for our wedding reflected my minimalist but chic style. I opted for organic and textural blooms that were whimsical. An English garden party and Black Tie fete were the vibes I wanted to curate.

[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]Evan completely surprised me with the proposal while on our summer European vacation. We were vacationing in Nice on the French Riviera, and while on a day trip to Villafranche-sur-Mer, he popped the question while we were hiking along the coastline. We ended the trip celebrating in Ibiza with our friends and dancing the night away at a Calvin Harris concert. It was beyond perfect![/field]
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[section title=”The Fashion”]
[field title=”Wedding Gown”]

I wanted fashion to take a front seat, selecting designers from all over the world for my dresses throughout the weekend, having custom couture pieces for myself, and bespoke tailoring pieces for Evan’s attire. To kick off my wedding weekend, I wore a Jacquemus piece to our bridal party brunch followed by a made-to-order piece from Turkish designer Gul Hurgel for our Welcome Party. Again, as part of leaning into the pink theme, I fell in love with a blush pink Katherine Tash gown from her 2024 collection. The lustrous sheen of the gown and beautiful draping added texture and interest to the classic minimalist style that Katherine Tash is so known for. My last and absolute favorite piece throughout the weekend was my couture Hermione de Paula set which consisted of a romantically draped bodice paired with sheer pink lace shorts. It was incredibly special to be able to wear this custom couture piece, knowing that I would be the only person to have ever worn this set. I worked with Alice and Mae to design my bespoke wedding veil. This gorgeous piece was textural and organic, with several hundred flowers layered in different ways to create a 3D-like feel. The maximalist style of the veil provided a great contrast to the clean lines of my bridal gown.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

While I did not rely heavily on trends throughout my wedding, I enjoyed the mismatched bridal party looks that have been dominant over the past few seasons. Having been in my fair share of weddings, the sustainability of the mismatched looks drove my desire to allow my friends to select their gowns. I wanted them to be able to choose pieces that they would wear again in the future. Surprisingly, they all chose gowns that were similar in styles and textures. One guest commented on the “Bridgerton-like” vibes of their gowns which certainly aligned with my English garden party theme.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

Evan’s tuxedo was a bespoke piece from Ascot & Chapels, a bespoke tailoring house that uses traditional English techniques from the legendary suit makers of Savile Row. It was such an interesting process to choose specific design elements, such as the type of wool fabric, lapels, and pockets, down to details like our embroidered wedding date in the jacket. When a suit is custom-made and cut to your body, the fit is impeccable.

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

When Evan and I first met we connected over making and enjoying cocktails. We wanted this to be a central aspect of our wedding, thus, rather than having one specialized “his and hers” cocktail, we opted to curate an authentic cocktail bar experience. We served 7 different classic cocktails on our bar menu in addition to a selection of wines and beer. Food is a central aspect of our lives as we both enjoy cooking and exploring new and different cuisines. As an ode to our diverse heritage and backgrounds, we incorporated elements of Vietnamese cuisine and Southern comfort food into our menu. The head chef at Blue Water Kitchen had extensive experience traveling throughout Asia and was the perfect partner for us when curating a menu that incorporated both of our cultural backgrounds.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

I wanted to incorporate different design elements and textures for my wedding design and decor to create more visual interest. My florals were various shades of pink and neutral blush, while my linens incorporated elements of blush linen and airy ruffled pink tulle. I wanted to create an intimate dinner party vibe for my reception, thus some tables were candle-lit with a backdrop of ruffled blush pink tulle. Other design aspects juxtaposed minimalist ikebana-type florals with fruit-encrusted pearls to showcase their maximalist vibe. While I did not lean heavily into trends, the pearls were such a cute detail that photographed beautifully. Lastly, for our king’s table, I wanted florals to take centerstage. A lush aisle floral runner played the starring role.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

We decided to opt for our favorite cake from Whole Foods, their infamous Berry Chantilly cake. As the cake was simple, we got each table their mini cake so everyone could participate in the cake cutting!

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

Our music and ceremony were both carefully curated. Our officiant was a close friend who delivered a thoughtful and intimate ceremony. We were part of his wedding party and he was our officiant, and his wife was one of my beautiful bridesmaids! For the wedding processional, we opted for a custom, Taylor Swift instrumental arrangement that was produced by James Wong (@jameswong.kl). Both Evan and I love Taylor Swift so it only made sense to incorporate our love of music in this way. I surprised Evan by walking down the aisle to Elie Goulding who is one of his favorite artists. For our cocktail hour and dinner party, we recruited the help of our closest friends who curated a relaxed, country-day drinking vibe for cocktail hour, while the music selection during dinner completely changed the vibe to a more soulful mix of R&B and Samba. We danced the night away with a live band who worked the crowd and got everyone up and moving. Our last song, “Take Me Home, Country Roads” was a tribute to Evan’s background and childhood which made it the perfect way to end the night.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

My amazingly creative cousin Kathy (@the.oanh.co) helped me design my custom invitation suite. Using the floral print of my Hermione de Paula dress as inspiration, we designed a beautiful vintage blush floral invitation suite. We then utilized the same vintage print in our day of stationary to create a cohesive theme across various elements of our wedding decor.

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Photography: Nikki Daskalakis | Cinematography: Honeydo Socials | Event Planning: Vida Events | Floral Design: Steel Cut Floral Co | Wedding Dress: Katherine Tash | Wedding Dress: Hermione de Paula | Cake: Whole Foods Market | Invitations: The Oanh | Catering: Blue Water Kitchen | DJ: 8 Past Midnight | Groom's Attire: Ascot & Chapels | Wedding Venue: The Seclusion | Beauty: Caitlyn Meyer | Photography - Assistance: Alivaldez Photography | Rentals: Nuage Linens | Rentals: BBJ La Tavola

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
A Celebration of Intimacy and Vintage Romance Villa Di Monaciano


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]a romantic palette of blush, light pink, dusty blues, purples, and mauves[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

We envisioned our wedding as a celebration of intimacy and vintage romance, fully embracing the venue’s charm and the enchanting Italian backdrop. It was essential for us to weave our unique love story into the fabric of the event, honoring our family and friends in the process. Our goal was for the weekend to feel like more than just a wedding; we wanted it to be a heartfelt retreat for our closest loved ones, where by the end, everyone felt like family. Above all, we aimed to avoid a ‘production’ vibe and instead create the warmth of a dinner party. A key element in achieving this atmosphere was selecting a venue that felt like home, allowing the majority of our guests to truly settle in and enjoy the long weekend together.”

[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]

We first met in a sophomore class at Villanova, though we’d brushed past each other in previous courses without truly connecting. In this class, we were assigned to the same team for a semester-long project, and I felt an undeniable spark from the start. After we submitted our final project, we finally took the leap and acted on our feelings, and everything just clicked. Fast forward a decade, and I can hardly believe how far we’ve come since that first encounter 12 years ago. London has always held a special place in our hearts. We began our journey as a long-distance couple, with him in London and me back at Villanova. Our first trip together was when I visited him there, and since then, we’ve made it a tradition to return as often as we can. On this particular trip, I hesitated at first, thinking it was more of a ‘boys’ trip’ for a West Ham game. But we arrived a day early, with the promise of dining at a restaurant I had been eager to try. Little did I know, as we strolled down a charming street in Notting Hill on our way to breakfast, he was about to propose. I was completely caught off guard and not dressed for the moment! To add to the adventure, he had arranged for a photographer to capture the proposal, but with the tube striking, we couldn’t grab a taxi. Instead, we ended up biking six miles to the photoshoot—with me in heels! It was a hilariously chaotic start to our engagement and felt perfect ‘us’.”

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

My wedding dress was designed by Monique Lhuillier, but let me tell you, finding it was a journey! I tried on over 150 dresses, visiting every designer in NYC and even trekking out to Long Island, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. At this point, I joke with my friends that I should start a bridal dress consulting company because I’ve become a walking encyclopedia of bridal styles and designers. I designed a custom veil with Kadaleyah, and it was the perfect complement to my dress! For the after-party, I switched into a fun vintage boudoir-inspired mini dress adorned with sparkling crystal embroidery. I completed the look with a stunning vintage pearl cameo necklace I discovered thrifting. It all came together beautifully and added that extra touch of whimsy to the celebration!

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”][/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]

Cam wore an Alan David tuxedo. He got ready in Monaciano’s playroom with his brothers and two best friends. They played pool and cards and even brought the girls sandwiches for lunch!

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[field title=”Food & Drink”]

Our dinner took place in the enchanting stone courtyard, truly feeling like a fairytale with warm uplights, twinkling string lights, and the dreamy florals from Stiatti Fiori. The food was outstanding! We partnered with Delizia Ricevimenti to craft the perfect menu, and our guests were blown away by the deliciousness of every dish—from the homemade ricotta during the aperitivo to the two exquisite pasta courses and the late-night pizza. Everything was simply perfect!

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Our wedding florist was the talented Stiatti Fiori, whose stunning work I discovered on Instagram. I immediately knew I had to have them! I envisioned a romantic palette of blush, light pink, dusty blues, purples, and mauves for the florals. To enhance that old-world Italian charm, I also wanted stone busts, dripping candles, figs, grapes, plums, and vines. For my bridal bouquet, we added some bolder shades of pink and purple, which turned out beautifully! I was heartbroken that I couldn’t take it on my honeymoon with me—it felt like leaving behind a piece of the magic.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]After dinner, we guided our guests to the front of the villa, where our band, Britpops, and the dance floor awaited, complete with our beautifully arranged wedding cake. We chose a classic Italian Millefoglie, made with flaky, delicate puff pastry generously layered with soft vanilla custard, dusted with powdered sugar, and topped with fresh berries and chocolate chips. We had so much fun preparing and cutting the cake live for our guests—it was a highlight of the night![/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

We wanted our first dance to be fun and upbeat, so we chose ‘L-O-V-E’ by Nat King Cole. We asked our band to play the second verse in Italian, but there was a little mix-up—they ended up playing the entire song in Italian! It threw off our dance moves a bit since we were relying on the English lyrics for cues, but it turned into lots of giggles on the dance floor!

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]A few hours into the dancing, I rounded up some of my closest friends for an outfit change upstairs. We popped champagne and made a grand entrance back into the party on the stage to ‘What Dreams Are Made Of’ from the Lizzie McGuire Movie—a nostalgic nod to our childhoods and the magical location!
But the fun didn’t stop there. Cam and I revealed a secret we’d been keeping: an after-party in the wine cellar, complete with a DJ, disco ball, lights, and, of course, pizza! We danced until 2 a.m., and then we all jumped into the villa pool, laughing and stargazing. It was the most surreal ending to the night, and we couldn’t stop smiling!
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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

Our wedding was a three-day affair, with nearly 100 of our 130 guests checking in on Friday and staying right on site! We kicked off the weekend with an incredible welcome party in the stunning vineyards surrounding the Poggio Country House, one of the guest houses on the property. Guests were treated to a taste of Tuscany with pizza fresh from the Brindapino oven, a variety of delicious Italian bites, a gelato cart, and plenty of on-tap spritzes, prosecco, and beer. We leaned into the vineyard vibes with beautiful tablescapes featuring warm lighting, red checkered napkins, potted herbs, and vibrant flowers in orange, yellow, and white. To keep the energy high, a Tuscan folk band filled the air with lively Italian music. My favorite part was the welcome market that my planner, Elisa, helped bring to life. With accommodations having full kitchens and dining areas, we created a beautiful market for our guests to stock up for the weekend. From endless vibrant vegetables and freshly baked bread to flowers, wine, and olive oil from Monaciano, as well as local crackers, cookies, pasta, pesto, and sauces, our guests were well-fed and happy, filling their wicker baskets with treats for the weekend. Honestly, we didn’t want to leave!”

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]

To close out the weekend, we arranged a delightful wine tasting. They learned about the rich history of the property and got to know the wonderful family who graciously shared their home with us. Everyone sampled a variety of the incredible wines we had enjoyed throughout the weekend. It was the perfect way to wrap up our fabulous celebration, with family at the heart of it all.

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Photography: Carolina Serafini Photography | Event Planning: Sposiamovi Italian Wedding Planners | Event Planning: Italian wedding planners | Floral Design: Stiatti Fiori | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Invitations: La Precisina | Reception Venue: Villa Di Monaciano | Catering: Delizia Ricevimenti | Catering: Brindapino | DJ: Britpops | Groom's Attire: Alan David Custom | Beauty: Makeup by Veronika | Beauty: The Porfirio

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Bringing Back the Sheer Joy and Magic of Backyard Weddings


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]All the colors of the rainbow, pink, red, blue, purple, orange, white, yellow, and lots of greenery![/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]The wedding took place in the backyard of the bride’s parents. The vibe was very colorful and whimsical. The garden was amazing and green on the wedding day, and we really wanted it to speak for itself. Wee wanted a very relaxed wedding, with many places to sit or walk around and enjoy the day![/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”] A fun story!

The proposal took place on the day we got the keys to our house.
we had been away on a work trip to Paris the days before, I thought maybe he was going to propose on this trip, but it didn’t happen.
So on Monday after the trip, we went to pick up our keys to the new house. After that, we, of course, drove to our new home.

Dennis asked me if I could help my dad in the backyard with something (which I thought was odd), so my dad started stalling me for a few minutes. Then he asked if I could grab something inside. So I opened the door, and the room was full of rose petals and greenery. I walked upstairs, and there he was on one knee!

During the planning time of the proposal, Dennis had asked if he could have the keys a few days earlier so our parents could set this whole proposal up! it was so sweet![/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]My dress is from Nicole Milano, it’s fully made of tulle with an ombre effect from blush to ivory. the dress is so fun and playful and very me!
My shoes are from Jimmy Choo, they are light pink with floral detail. I saw them during our travel to Hong Kong and fell in love! they fit perfectly with the dress and location[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”][/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Dennis wore a dark blue suit from Michael & Giso with a grey/silver tie from his late grandfather’s wedding in 1958. black loafers from Gucci and star cufflinks (the bride’s name is Sterre which means star in dutch)[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]We didn’t want a 3-course seated dinner but wanted something that everyone loves and can have as much as they want, so Pizza!! We asked our models (we own a high fashion modeling agency) to help with serving the pizza slices. We had the most gorgeous serving team on the planet. Everyone loved it![/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]We love very colorful and whimsical florals and for it to go well with the garden. and wanted to do as much as possible ourselves, my dad and aunt are florists so that was amazing!

We are obsessed with the table setting! It works amazing with the garden and looks so good.
For decoration on the table, we went with terracotta pots with flowers and candles.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]We had a small cake for the cake cutting and everyone else we had a lot of different flavors of cake and Vlaai (dutch cakes) so everyone had something they liked[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Just before the wedding started my younger brother came up to me and surprised us with white doves that we could release during the ceremony, it was such a fun idea and moment.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]A few days before the wedding my dad planted flowers that attract butterflies and on the wedding day, the garden was full of them! so romantic![/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]The father of the bride’s best friend did the ceremony, which made it very personal and an amazing memory to have. Wilfred was the best.[/field]
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Photography: Arlene Leilani Photographu | Cinematography: whatYoaneseesphotographu | Wedding Dress: Nicole Milano | Cake: Jippies | Catering: viva la pizza | Groom's Attire: Michael & Giso | Accomodations: Garden Claus | Beauty: Resy ramaekers

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Soft Italian Elegance at La Casa Toscana in Florida


[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]The wedding beautifully embraced a palette of soft neutrals and blush, accented by lush greenery, creating an elegant and serene atmosphere reminiscent of the enchanting Tuscan countryside.[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Nestled among the trees, the wedding design exuded romance, featuring lush and grand floral arrangements alongside soft lighting that captured the enchanting essence of a Tuscan escape.[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]Nicole and Alec’s engagement unfolded in Jamaica, where they were captivated by a stunning sunset and the ocean stretching endlessly before them. Surrounded by rustic archways adorned with vibrant florals, Alec proposed in a moment that felt like a dream. Shortly after, they were led to a romantic dinner on the beach, the sound of waves providing the perfect backdrop for their celebration. The week that followed was filled with laughter and joy as they cherished every moment with family and friends, creating unforgettable memories on this beautiful island paradise.[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]The menu featured a Mediterranean-inspired salad, grilled skirt steak, savory chicken piccata, and delicate mahi, offering a delightful culinary journey through the flavors of the region.[/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The wedding featured stunning white and blush florals intertwined with lush greenery, elegantly displayed beneath an ornate gazebo that served as a breathtaking focal point for the celebration.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The grand white wedding cake, adorned with intricate Mediterranean-inspired details, stood as a stunning centerpiece, combining elegance with a touch of the region’s vibrant charm.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Guests enjoyed dinner under the stars, where beautiful chandeliers illuminated the scene, casting a warm glow over the tables adorned with lush greenery.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Guests were welcomed by a seating chart, “Time to Par-tee” with an interactive putt putt experience. The wall included glasses of champagne with their place card to find their seat. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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Photography: Stella Paschall Photo | Event Planning: Florida Wedding Design | Floral Design: Floral Symphony | Wedding Dress: Chosen by kyha | Cake: Sweetified Bakery | Invitations: Lettering by GRG | Catering: Friscos | DJ: A DJ with Class | Groom's Attire: Charles Tyrwhitt | Groomsmen's Attire: Mens Wearhouse | Wedding Venue: La Casa Toscana | Gelato Cart: Sospiri | Hair Beauty: Adorne Artistry | Makeup Beauty: May Paulina | Photo Booth: Jewel Booth | Rentals: Trinity Special Event Rentals | Rentals: Plithos Event Rentals | Signs Design and Printing: Script Me Pretty

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
Your Personal Wedding Planning Terminology Dictionary!

Vendors in the wedding industry have created many unique terms for the wedding world. Many of these terms are spoken without regard to the fact couples may have no idea what they mean! To help you in meetings, research, and general wedding planning, I’ve put together your own personal wedding planning terminology dictionary with a focus on terms that are not necessarily common knowledge.

Al Fresco: A term that means “out in the open air” and is often associated with open air dining. An outdoor reception would be an al fresco reception (my favorite kind!)

Bridal Party: As a photographer, I have noticed some confusion around this term. Most commonly, the term bridal party is meant to refer to the bride and groom, as well as the bridesmaids and groomsmen. Typically, this does not refer to the family or general guests, although some might use it to include them as well as the bridesmaids and groomsmen.

Charger: I’ll admit that I had no idea what a charger was until 2013. A charger is a decorative plate upon which all other dining plates rest. It’s the ultimate place setting eye candy.

Cocktail Hour: The gap between the ceremony and reception during which guests enjoy libations and dine on appetizers. This time can last an hour or sometimes 90 minutes if more photos or reception set up cannot fit within an hour.

Coordinator: The person or business hired to coordinate the wedding timeline and oversee the wedding day logistics.

Dummy Cake: A faux cake that looks real. A Styrofoam cake shape covered in icing that can be more cost effective than a real cake layer. You can have an entire dummy cake and sheet cake waiting to be served, or a dummy layer on top of a real layer to increase the size of your cake.

Escort Card: Essentially a place/name card, the escort card designates which table a guest will take their seat.

First Look: The moment where a couple sees each other before the ceremony. The first look can happen between the couple, bride and her bridesmaids, or the bride and her father. You can do one or all of the above!

Flatlay: A flatlay refers to a photo taken at an above-view angle that typically is of stationery, accessories, flowers, or other wedding details that have been carefully styled.

Flatware: Dining utensils: forks, knives, spoons.

Flipping the Space (A Flip): When your reception will occur in the same space as your ceremony, the vendors will have to “flip the space” during the cocktail hour to transform it to the reception setup.

Glassware: A fancy way of referring to drinking glasses such as wine glasses or water goblets.

Grazing Table: A table for appetizers such as cheeses and meats or fruits that guests may graze at during cocktail hour or the reception.

Head Table: Typically, the head table does not mean the same thing as a sweetheart table, which only seats the couple. Head tables include either or both the bridal party and families, depending on who the couple wants at their table. Two long tables, or perhaps three, would be seamlessly adjoined to accommodate the group.

Hybrid Photographer: A photographer that shoots both digital and film photos.

Processional: The first walk down the aisle to commence the wedding ceremony.

Recessional: The second and final walk down the aisle after the wedding ceremony concludes.

Sample Sale (Gowns): A bridal boutique will occasionally host a sample sale in which gowns are available off the rack instead of special order. This means they are available immediately, as-is, with no wait time. Sample sales usually offer a discount on the sample gowns.

Second Shooter: A second photographer- not to be confused with the police or military version.

Sheet Cake: A cost effective cake that is made on a large rectangular baking sheet that can be easily cut and served to guests.

Signature Cocktail: A pre-selected cocktail, chosen by the couple, that is presented on a cocktail menu. Signature cocktails can be named to represent the couple or their interests/hobbies/history. Ex: The Catalina (location where the couple became engaged).

Sweetheart Table: A table for just the married couple.

Tablescape: The entire décor of the reception table from the linens to the centerpieces to the dinnerware make up a tablescape.

Tray Pass: Refers to the service in which catering staff walks throughout the reception or cocktail hour space offering appetizers or drinks from a tray.

Trunk Show (Gowns): An event in which a bridal boutique will be hosting a large collection of gowns, not normally in the shop, from a specific wedding dress designer. Trunk shows often feature a temporary discount on these gowns, which disappear from the shop after the event concludes.

Unplugged Ceremony: A ceremony during which no phones or cameras are used for taking photos. Guests will be present at the wedding and the professional photos will be free of phones held in the aisle and above the seats. The term “unplugged wedding” is also meant to refer to the ceremony. Designate this with a sign and always have the officiant announce this before the ceremony for best results.

Uplighting: Lighting that comes from several lighting units places along the perimeter of the space that project light upwards on the walls, trees, etc.

Photography: Cavin Elizabeth Photography

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