Connecticut Weddings

Let’s be honest, planning a wedding can be a little complicated.  From the cake to the flowers to the guest list, there’s a lot of decisions to make.  But the one thing you most definitely don’t want to worry about? Choosing the right wedding bands.  Which is why we’re teaming up with the fabulous Long’s Jewelers to help ease the stress a bit.  It’s Rings 101 from Boston’s most beloved jeweler.  Sit back and soak it all in.

1. Choose Your Wedding Ring Style

From the band width to the metal finish to the overall look and feel, narrowing down the style of your band is one of THE most important decisions you’ll make.  Are you and yours a vintage-inspired duo, a modern couple or two sweeties with a love of all things simple and sweet? By choosing the right band width and metal that fit your style personality, you can count on a happy ring buying experience.  Think a 4 mm band in brushed metal or a 10 mm band in a more textured look. Honestly, the options at Long’s Jewelers are endless… and beyond pretty.

2. Understand The Differences In Metal Type

And speaking of metal… understanding the differences between all of the ah-mazing options is totally key. From classic + gorgeous yellow gold (hint: always go for the 18K) to the platinum pretties (hypoallergenic + heavy + long-lasting) to the white gold stunners to the edgy (+ seriously chic) Tungsten or Carbon Fiber rings that are totally you and totally unique.  Not sure which one to choose?  No worries. Long’s Jewelers will walk with you step by step throughout the entire process to make sure you pick a metal that is perfect.

3. Consider Your Lifestyle

Making sure your ring fits into your day to day lifestyle can often be overlooked, but as the staff at Long’s Jewelers will tell you… it’s sooo important.  Which means that whether you spend your days working with your hands (hint, hint: platinum) or play tennis every.single.morning (just say no to the eternity bands), selecting the right band will make alllll the difference.

4. Settle On A Budget

Just like every aspect of your Big Day, you’ll most definitely want to set a budget BEFORE you go ring shopping.  But where, oh where to start?  Long’s Jewelers recommends setting aside $1,000 and heading upward based on those details you are simply swooning over. Think diamond accents, metal type and more. Truly… it all just depends on what you’re looking for.  Our advice?  Start with doing some research online to get a ballpark estimate.  You’ll find it so very, very helpful that you did.

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Can’t wait to put all of your new knowledge to the test?  Join Long’s Annual Wedding Band Weekend March 18-20, 2016 for wall-to-wall wedding bands, a meet and greet with some awesome wedding ring vendors and selection and pricing that will make you sooo happy.  Oh, and there’s also the chance to win $1,000 off your wedding ring, plus even more amazing prizes.  I’m talking a dream honeymoon, suits for your bridal party, dinner and wine, a shopping spree, a pair of TAG Huer watches, gift certificates and more. RSVP here, lovelies.  It’s going to be awesome.

Our happy place?  Beautiful photography.  Those kind of stop-you-in-your-tracks images that capture every moment + feeling + look, all while expertly telling your true love story.  Its exactly the type of images we see time and time again from Craig Paulson Photography, and the reason we fan girl out when we happen upon one of this boutique studio’s brilliant weddings.  Scroll below for a look.

Based in New York City for over 15 years, Craig Paulson Photography specializes in destination and NY wedding photography.  Which means that whether you’re saying “I do” in a fabulous loft space in Tribeca, or jetting away to a tropical locale, Craig Paulson’s talented team of photogs will be on hand to capture every second of your Big Day perfectly… and organically.  I’m talking highly trained photographers known for fusing modern portraiture with classic photojournalism, giving you those timeless photos you will treasure for always.

Craig Paulson Photography is always striving to tell your story in the most unobtrusive way possible… unless you need an emergency dress mender or someone to calm down your flower girl’s meltdown. They are pretty skilled at that, too.  They also have an ah-mazing Studio Manager who will help facilitate your timeline, permits and payments. Plus, they’ll even help with vendor recs, or come along to your dress fitting.  There isn’t a moment of your Big Day Craig Paulson Photography won’t be a part of, which is why they are so very, very unique… and very, very awesome.

Contact Craig Paulson Photography today to make an appointment to stop by their studio to chat all things wedding. They’ll walk you step by step throughout the process and even introduce you to their sister company, The Album Room, for that perfect keepsake.  You’re going to adore them, SMPers. We can guarantee you that.

If there’s a way to make winter welcoming, stylist AOK Styling, who’s also our Bride-to-be, knows the secrets. Wrapped up in a chic, cozy coat, with her man by her side, she’s radiating pre-wedding warmth in all these sweet pics by Ashley Caroline. Turn up the heat with our VAULT right this way!

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From the Bride-to-be… When Raven and I got engaged, we knew we wanted to do our engagement photos in the snow. We love the winter, and wanted to memorialize the beautiful snowy CT countryside with our photos.

I’m a stylist, so part of what I do for a living is curate outfits for couples’ engagement shoots. When it came to my own, I have to admit I was a little stumped. I envisioned a gorgeous dress, a beautiful blanket wrapped around us… but nothing felt right. When I came across a beautiful forest green coat from ASOS, however, I knew I was on the right track.

The day of our shoot was a chilling 17 degrees – one of the coldest of the year. I threw on a comfy plaid dress and Raven and I donned our snow boots, planning to change when we arrived at the shoot location. The snow was 2 feet deep in the field where we had planned to shoot, so we left on our boots and, laughing, climbed through the deep snow.

We have a wonderful relationship with our photographer, Ashley Caroline, and she kept us in a warm frame of mind as she captured the sun setting around us. My favorite part of the shoot was just as the sun was falling behind the horizon, we carefully climbed to the tree line where we shared a flask of whiskey.

Every time I look back at these photos, I don’t remember my frozen fingers, but rather am transported to a cozy memory of hugs with my favorite person in our favorite place in the world.

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More engagement inspiration here!

Photography: Ashley Caroline Photography | Styling: AOK Style + Planning | Floral Design: Jakkelyn Iris Designs | Coat: ASOS

I’m all for shower games but a farm-to-table feast is sure to trump all. And that’s not the only fab activity on the docket for this pink infused shower. The mama-to-be and party planner extraordinaire behind Lovely Day Styling & Events also fashioned a floral crown making station with the help of Jakkelyn Iris Designs + dip dyed the prettiest pink linens (in her third trimester, no less!). Click through the vault captured by Victoria Gloria for even more!

I’m a wedding planner who loves obsessing over the smallest decor details that make our couples’ weddings unique, so when my Mom approached me to help plan my own baby shower, I was all for it. It was the chance to combine my passion for party planning with complete creative control — which was the best gift she could have given me! The planning process was so fun and the perfect pregnancy distraction in my third trimester.

We invited an intimate group of my closest friends and family and decided to host the party at Terrain in Westport, CT, a local spot that inspires me each time I walk in. My Mom and I worked together on the decor, focusing on special touches like calligraphed place cards and home-baked banana and pumpkin bread favors. We spent the day before the event dip-dying the table runners in my tiny kitchen sink, laughing for hours and trying not to dye our hands pink!

I really wanted my friends to have a lovely evening together, so we replaced traditional “shower games” with a delicious farm-to-table harvest supper and a hands-on group activity. My friend and floral genius Jakkelyn Dickey lead us in a wonderful flower-crown making class, which fit perfectly with the Garden Cafe theme and sent my guests home with a hand-made souvenir.

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It was the perfect celebration for my baby girl, and the talented Victoria Shaefer captured it all in beautiful photos that I’ll have as a keepsake for years to come.

Photography: Victoria Gloria | Event Design: Lovely Day Styling | Floral Design: Jakkelyn Iris Designs | Dress: Asos | Cake: Sweet Maria's | Invitations: Minted | Calligraphy: DIY by the Bride | Cafe: Terrain at Styers

Get ready, lovelies, because this seaside wedding is going to brighten this gray winter day. Then again, I may be a little bit biased—this affair was designed by SMP’s very own, Abby Capalbo. And with a dreamy dress from Everthine Bridal Boutique, yummy bites from Gourmet Galley and gorgeous photos from Ashley Caroline, this day is truly perfect. See it all in THE VAULT!

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From The Bride…Steve and I met through a group of friends who played trivia each week at a local brew pub, and after a ski weekend in Vermont and a few helpful nudges from our friends, we began dating. We quickly realized that this relationship of ours wasn’t just about romance but that more importantly we were, quite simply, each other’s best friend. When Steve asked me to marry him in the same spot where we first talked about spending our lives together, I happily said yes.

Steve and I both agreed that we wanted a laid back, relaxed reception with an emphasis on great food and lots of fun things to do! We thought of so many different ideas to incorporate (I am a Style Me Pretty devotee and have been long before Steven and I met!) but when it came time to make major decisions our guiding idea was “did it feel like us?”

As an admitted over-Pinner and detail oriented gal, one of the most helpful things we did was invest in a design board with Abby Capalbo. I had a sense of how I wanted the design to go, but needed help editing all of the ideas. We shared as much of “us” with Abby as we could and she created a document that so perfectly captured what we were hoping to see on our big day. It made communicating our story and ideas a breeze when working with our talented vendors!

I have a long standing love affair with summer in New England, so we chose a venue that really reflected that; when Gourmet Galley sent us our menu proposal, we felt like they read our minds! Steve is the most wonderful, goofy guy and has a serious penchant for puns, so Jen of Jennifer’s Paper really allowed us to infuse plenty of fun into the paper goods throughout the day. Paper ended up being such a huge vehicle for highlighting our personalities (hello, 478,482 nautical puns!) and Jen was so patient and talented at working in every little detail for us. We’d also spent most of our relationship living in Middletown, CT, so it was a no-brainer for us to ask the Middletown cupcake queen, NoRa’s Cupcakes, to drive their truck down for the reception.

In keeping with the personalized theme, we elected to take on a few DIY projects for our big day. For our escort cards, we choose to create a mixed CD as a nod to our first date: he brought me flowers, I made him a mix that he still listens to! We built cornhole boards, repainted additional games to keep a cohesive look on the lawn, and made monkey fist knots for the tables. The monkey fists come with a funny story: I was getting overwhelmed with details and was stressed about the knots; Steve, being the amazing guy he is readily offered to make these for me. I was skeptical but he insisted he give it a try. Upon successful completion of his trial knot, he sent a photo of it to me, along with a rewritten, wedding-centric parody of the “Men of the Night’s Watch” vow from Game of Thrones. He was the self-proclaimed “Watcher of the Wedding.”

We will never forget our beautiful wedding day. Ashley Drago’s gorgeous floral garlands popped on the tables and when Marissa of Gourmet Galley led us into the room we couldn’t stop smiling at how perfectly everything came together! The day was such a happy blur and I’ll never forget dancing and catching glimpses of Steve dancing with my cousins, high school pals and family members running to the photo booth or cupcake truck, or our college friends twirling our grandmothers around the dance floor! Easily our favorite memory, aside from our vows, was sneaking off during dinner to spend some time alone at the edge of the lawn overlooking the water. We felt so blessed to be surrounded by our favorite people and all of the love they shared with us.

Even with a team of wonderful vendors and lots of wedding prettiness, everything pales in comparison to the marriage we are beginning. Steve is truly the kindest, funniest, most wonderful guy and while things are not always picture perfect, I feel so incredibly blessed to have found my best friend and teammate for life.

Photography: Ashley Caroline Photography | Cinematography: Brian J Productions | Event Design: Abby Capalbo | Floral Design: Ashley Drago | Wedding Dress: Rebecca Schoneveld | Cupcakes: NoRa Cupcake Company | Stationery: Jennifer's Paper | Bridesmaids' Dresses: J.Crew | Catering: Gourmet Galley Catering | Makeup: Larissa Lake | Hair: Naomi's Studio & Salon | Venue: Guilford Yacht Club | Bridal Boutique: Everthine Bridal Boutique | DJ + Entertainment: Local Motion | Signage + Cocktail Stirrers: Laura Hooper Calligraphy

When a handful of New England’s best vendors come together – looking at you, True Event, Hana Floral, Tie That Binds, Sperry Tent, and Katie Slater – beautiful things follow. Set on the Connecticut shore, this wedding features a classic church ceremony, a tented seaside reception, and too many pretty moments to count. Find your happy place here in The Vault.

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From The Bride…Robbie and I met at boarding school in Connecticut when I was a freshman and he was a sophomore. Our school had a “walk back” tradition that when a guy liked a girl he asked to walk her back to her dorm before night check in. I remember him throwing a football with his friend before asking to walk me home and I thought he was such a show off! Looking back, we were so young but our connection was instantaneous and grew stronger with every challenge life threw us. Little did I know Taft’s quirky tradition would lead me to my high school sweetheart and lifelong best friend.

Seven years of dating across state lines and different colleges later, our lives came full circle and we both landed back in Connecticut. At just 23 and 24, the one certainty in our lives was that we knew we wanted to build and celebrate them with one another. I was secretly hoping he would propose around the holidays but by 8pm on Christmas Day, I was sure he didn’t get any of my hints! Somehow he managed to catch me completely off guard and proposed to me outside of his childhood home in Montreal, Quebec late Christmas night.

Between Christmas and our plans for an August wedding, we had 8 months to plan. I knew immediately I wanted to have the wedding by the Connecticut shore. We booked the Catholic Church where I spent summer mass each Sunday and decided to do the reception at my father’s waterfront home. Determined to plan the wedding on our own, Robbie and I researched and found our amazing photographer, Katie Slater. Beyond her talent, Katie is an absolute sweetheart. We knew she was special when, in a winter storm, she trekked out to Elizabeth Park in Hartford so we could capture our engagement shots in the snow! After sourcing more fabulous vendors—Hana Florals and Coastal Gourmet—it became clear to us that we would need professional planning to pull off the backyard reception. Sarah True of True Event and her team worked with us the rest of the way and made the day everything we imagined and more.

The only way to describe our wedding day was absolutely magical. Someone told me before the wedding as long as you have the man you love at the end of the aisle, that’s all that matters. That advice gave me a sense of peace going into the big day and is also something that I hope other brides can remember when all the planning ends!

Many of the best memories from the wedding were unexpected ones. One of my favorites was when our band, The Hudson project, started playing ‘We are Young’ (so romantic, I know!) and asked all the guests to form a circle around Robbie and I while the two of us slow danced in the middle. The way Ryan Designs and Sarah’s team designed the lighting in the tent made it feel like we were dancing underneath the stars. I’ll never forget spinning around in the middle of the circle looking at everyone in my life I love surrounding me and then back at my awesome new husband and thinking, life doesn’t get better than this.

Photography: Katie Slater Photography | Event Planning + Design: TRUE Event | Floral Design: Hana Floral Design | Wedding Dress: Badgley Mischka | Wedding Dress: Watters | Cake: Zest Fresh Pastry | Invitations: Tie That Binds | Catering: Coastal Gourmet | Makeup: Timothy Pamment Salon | Hair: W Salon | Band: Elan Artists | Groomsmen Attire: Vera Wang Black For Men's Warehouse | Transportation: Black Swan Limousine | Transportation: Rockstar Limo | Venue: At Home | Accommodations: Mohegan Sun Hotel | Accommodations: Saybrook Point Inn | Bathrooms: Country Portables | Bridesmaid Jewelry: Judith Bright | Cocktail Hour Music: Suite Occasions Music | Lighting + Draping: Ryan Designs | Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Rentals Unlimited | Tent Rentals: Sperry Tents

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

Hana Floral Design

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As much as we love a blush wedding at SMP, we also love a day bursting with color like this one from Ashley Therese Photography. And with invitations and stationery from Roseville Designs, a gorgeous Jenny Packham gown from Everthine Bridal Boutique and entertainment from Sweet Tooth & The Sugarbabies Band, the color scheme isn’t the only thing to love about this day. See all the beauty in THE VAULT!

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From The Bride…The only thing we were set on while planning our wedding was having some aspect of our day outside. We both love the outdoors and spending time with my family in Connecticut and wanted to share that with our guests. The Inn at Longshore is close by where I grew up and was the first, and only, venue that we visited. We loved the location and the waterfront view with the option of having the ceremony and cocktail hour on the lawn overlooking the Long Island Sound.

Brian gave me free reign when planning the wedding, since it really is every girl’s dream, but I didn’t have a specific vision in mind. I knew that I wanted it to be beautiful and romantic, and not feel dated when we look back at our photos in 20 years, but other than that I was open to anything. There are so many choices for every facet of a wedding that it can be overwhelming. Our wedding planner, Amy of Amy Champagne Events, was wonderful and really helped us to narrow down what we wanted and to find the perfect people to work with.

From the start Brian had his heart set on hiring Loudbyte as our cinematographers. They created the most amazing film for his brother’s wedding but because they are based in Chicago we only Skyped and emailed with them. That really got us hooked planning online as much as possible. Since we were living out of state in New York City and recently had a baby, we tried to keep traveling to a minimum. The bridesmaids’ dresses and groomsmen’s tuxes were ordered online. We didn’t meet our photographer, Ashley Therese Photography, in person until our engagement session, and all of the invitation and day-of paper design was done with Sandy of Roseville Designs over email. We actually never even saw our band, Sugarbabies, perform until our wedding! It sounds crazy but with social media and everyone having a website, you can get a lot of information and feel really comfortable with your choices even if you aren’t able to meet face to face.

Before the wedding one of my bridesmaids reminded me to stop every once in awhile and be in the moment; just to take it all in. I’m so glad she told me that because I think it really made everything slow down for us and we were able to enjoy and really remember the day so much more.

Photography: Ashley Therese Photography | Cinematography: Loudbyte | Event Planning: Amy Champagne Events | Floral Design: Diane Gaudette Custom Floral Designs | Wedding Dress: Everthine Bridal Boutique | Cake: Erica OBrien Cake Design | Bride's Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Catering: On The Marc | Makeup: Caitlin Cotter Makeup Artistry | Calligraphy: Belles Lettres Calligraphy | Lighting: Shindig Lighting | Band: Sugarbabies Inc. | Groom's Attire: The Black Tux | Transportation: Gateway Limos | Venue: The Inn At Longshore | Bridal Boutique: Everthine Bridal Boutique | Invitations + Stationery: Roseville Designs

Every element of this summer celebration shines on its own but put it all together, and well, pop on those sunglasses on my friends because this bash is bright! Eddie Winter from Readyluck captured all the brilliance True Event created, all the beauty by Hana Floral Design and Jennie Fresa’s hair and makeup magic, and all the tasty treats from Gourmet Galley – see these and more in our VAULT right this way!

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From the Bride… Eric and I had the perfect summer Connecticut wedding. We were engaged for over two years, so had plenty of time to plan. Saltwater Farm Vineyard was the only venue we toured and we immediately knew it was the perfect casual but elegant setting for our special day. Living in California, my amazing mother and our wedding planner Sarah True from True Event handled many of the smaller details.

Our ceremony was performed between the vines by my middle school headmaster, Doug Lyons. My Maid of Honor sang “When you wish upon a star” before Eric and I recited our own vows to one another. The personal details of the ceremony were truly special. Cocktail hour on the patio was followed by dinner and dancing in the restored airplane hanger. We had spectacular New England summer weather and it was the day after the blue moon. Our wedding day could not have been any more perfect!

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Find more New England nuptials here!

Photography: Readyluck | Floral Design: Hana Floral Design | Wedding Dress: Allegria Bridal | Catering: Gourmet Galley Catering | Makeup: Jennie Fresa Brow & Beauty Bar | Lighting: Power Posse Productions | Band: Murray Hill Talent | Venue: Saltwater Farms Vineyard | Event Design + Coordination: TRUE Event | Rentals: Rentals Unlimited | Save The Dates: Minted

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

Hana Floral Design

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When you put together a team with the likes of True Event, Tie That Binds, Jennie Fresa and Smilebooth, well, magic happens – and this autumn wedding demonstrates it all. Overflowing with florals from these colorful centerpieces (thanks to Hana Floral Design) to the Bride’s gorgeous gown and the bridesmaid’s (decked out in Jenny Yoo) bouquets, this is one of those weddings that makes you hungry for more – and that craving can be satisfied with Buzz Media’s film and all the pretty pics in our VAULT right here!

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From the Bride… Braden and I met on June 25th, 2013 during the week of my sister’s wedding in Martha’s Vineyard. We flirted a bit but Braden was hesitant to make a move because of our six year age difference (I was 22 at the time and he was 28). I saw no issue with the age difference so I made the first move and we had an amazing time hanging out at the wedding.

After that there was no one else! Braden was working in Baltimore at the time but his home base was North Carolina while I lived in Boston. Despite the distance, we saw each other almost every weekend. On March 20th, 2014 while on vacation in Aruba, Braden asked me to marry him at this beautiful nature pool surrounded by the ocean. After a year of traveling to see each other I moved to North Carolina in June 2014 to be closer to him. We decided to get married in Connecticut because my favorite place in the world is where I spent my summers growing up, Groton Long Point, CT. I had never pictured myself getting married any other place. We found a beautiful vineyard nearby in North Stonington and decided it was the perfect location. Our rehearsal dinner was in Groton Long Point and the wedding was at the Vineyard. During the whole wedding process we decided to up our stress level and build a house at the same time, we move in at the end of October!

Our wedding planner, True Event, was essential in pointing us towards some of the best vendors in the industry. Their knowledge and experience helped us avoid the wedding-day horror stories that everybody fears, and the entire weekend was accomplished without a single hiccup!

Yumiko from Hana Floral was one of the most important wedding vendors. My florist really took my vision and brought it to life. She was willing and able to do anything I wanted and was able to give me suggestions as well.

I really could not have done it without my paper designer, Mekala from Tie That Binds. She helped me design the most amazing invitations and from there every other paper detail at the wedding you could imagine. I asked her if we could do invitations on real wood and she went out of her way to make it happen! From there we then did welcome bags, matchboxes, welcome bags, and do not disturb door hangers and menus on real wood as well! She designed the most beautiful floral image off of inspiration flowers photos I sent her and was able to incorporate it beautifully into each piece. I was also extremely picky about the font I used and she went above and beyond to make sure it was exactly how I liked it. I clearly wasn’t the easiest client to work with but she made it seem like I was! She went above and beyond!

My hair stylist and makeup artists were wonderful. Jennie Fresa and her crew really took my ideas and made them come to life. I couldn’t have been happier with my hair especially!

My caterer, Russell Morin was great. They were so easy to work with and made some amazing food. I asked them to make me a cheese table for cocktail hour and I wanted them to create a cake out of cheeses (a cheese cake, but made from just cheese!); they did an amazing job putting it together and made it exactly how I pictured it! The rest of the food was just as amazing!

Ana Parzych Cakes was also incredible. She really created a piece of art with her sugar flowers that were almost identical to my wedding flowers!

Kleinfelds also were a crucial part to my wedding because they helped me find and alter my dream dress! I had seen my dress on a “Grey’s Anatomy” a few years back and we showed Kleinfeld a picture of it so they could get an idea of what I was looking for, and it turns out they had the exact dress! I felt like the luckiest girl ever. Because it was such a delicate dress I was very nervous about them altering it but they did a beautiful job!

Our band, the Rhythm Collective… amazing! They made every song sound like the original and everyone wanted them to continue so bad after the reception was over. They came onto the dance floor at one point and sang and danced with the crowd and that got everyone even more excited.

Ryan Designs was also a big part of the day! They were in charge of setting up the tent draping and hanging the lanterns/lights. But they also custom made the most beautiful ceremony doors for us and a beautiful ceremony archway.

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Peruse more Connecticut weddings here!

Cinematography: Buzz Media Company- Wedding Films | Event Planning + Design: TRUE Event | Wedding Dress: Kleinfeld Bridal | Cake: Ana Parzych Cakes | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Catering: Russell Morin Fine Catering | Hair + Makeup: Jennie Fresa Brow & Beauty Bar | Band: Elan Artists | Groom's Attire: Men's Wearhouse | Transportation: First Student Charter | Transportation: Black Swan Limousine | Venue: Jonathan Edwards Winery | Bathrooms: Luxury Loo | Bridal Boutique: Kleinfeld Bridal | Floral Design + Photo Booth Backdrop: Hana Floral Design | Invitations + Paper Goods: Tie That Binds | Lighting Decor + Bars: Ryan Designs | Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Photo Booth: Brooke Courtney Photography | Rentals: Rentals Unlimited | Rentals: New England Country Rentals | Signage: Sweet Carolina Collective | Tent Rentals: Sperry Tents

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

Hana Floral Design

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Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

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I may be a tad bit biased, but I think it’s safe to say that anything in front of Rebecca Yale‘s lens is bound to turn into pure wedding gold. Gold with a side of subtle, yet festive red and green in this case. And while we usually gush over one bride, we’ve got two beauties today—and that means double the rings, dresses and bouquets (thanks to Ariel Dearie Flowers!). Ebb & Flow sat behind the striking design and you can see it all in THE VAULT.

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From Rebecca Yale Photography…For this bridal editorial we drew inspiration from two fashion forward brides with distinct aesthetics would combining their vision for a gorgeous same-sex winter wedding. We wanted a very clean palette playing with tone on tone in varying shades and textures of black and white with pops of red, green and gold as the only color. In our vision one of our brides was sleek and modern, choosing two architectural dresses and simple nude Valentino pumps. Her bouquet and ring were both structural and modern complimenting her aesthetic. We chose two sexier illusion dresses for our second bride, pairing them with strappy gold Jimmy Choo’s and a lush red bouquet and vintage inspired ring from Claire Pettibone’s new collection for Trumpet and Horn. We were drawn to the idea of two brides selecting their engagement rings from the same designer so they complimented each other, while still feeling uniquely them. We carried the juxtaposition of the sexy and modern aesthetics throughout the details of the editorial in the tablescape and the cocktail table with deep red florals with sleek marble chargers, and jewel toned hors d’oeuvres in cut glass and white vessels. We ended the editorial with a romantic horse and carriage, the perfect way to make your wedding exit befitting for a Victorian Mansion, decorated in architectural and minimal floral elements created by Ariel Dearie.

Photography: Rebecca Yale Photography | Event Design: Ebb & Flow | Floral Design: Ariel Dearie Flowers | Wedding Dress: Kleinfeld Bridal | Rings: Trumpet & Horn | Catering: On The Marc | Makeup: Anjeh Bourne | Hair: Shavaughn Byrd | Invitations And Calligraphy: Written Word Calligraphy | Venue: Eolia Mansion | Chairs: Lillian August | Crystal Candelabra: Ct Rental Center | Horse And Carriage: Cedar Knoll Farm | Photography Assistance: Rachel Watkinson | Rentals: Ebb & Flow | Ribbon And Runner: Silk and Willow | Ring Boxes: The Mrs Box | Wedding Dress #1: Gabriela Cadena | Wedding Dress #2: Rivini | Wedding Dress #3: Zuhair Murad | Wedding Dress #4: Tony Ward

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

Rebecca Yale Photography

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Written Word Calligraphy

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Whether you’re a modern lady with a love of all things contemporary, a classic girl with a passion for romance or happily fall somewhere in between, one thing is certain: accessorizing your look with Mikimoto pearls from Long’s Jewelers is THE best decision you’ll ever make.  Think seriously stunning pieces perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your Big Day… and beyond.  We LOVE.

Pearls for Every Girl with Long's Jewelers

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Pearls for Every Girl with Long's Jewelers

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Family-owned and operated with five locations throughout Massachusetts, Long’s Jewelers knows all there is to know about adding a bit of pretty to your wedding + every day with some of the most beautiful pearls you will ever lay your eyes upon.  I’m talking elegant, sophisticated and jaw-droppingly gorgeous Mikimoto pearls, the epitome of luxurious jewelry.  And when you combine the finest cultured pearls in the world with the trusted + knowledgeable customer service of Long’s Jewelers, well… it just doesn’t get any better.  Just ask our fabulous editors Michelle and Melissa…

Sooo ready to get your pretty on?  Visit Long’s Jewelers TODAY to see just why they’ve been the leader in all things lovely since 1878.  (Hint: They’re amazing.)

There’s a special place in my heart reserved for Alexandra Grecco’s fabulous tulle skirts. Why? They’re sassy + stunning, totally wearable for every occasion and have an extra dose of gorgeous sprinkled into every.last.layer. In other words, they’re the perfect addition to any e-session, going away brunch or holiday party. Prepare to be amazed, loves… these are the definition of awesome.

Based in the ever-fabulous Brooklyn, NY, each Alexandra Grecco masterpiece is available in an array of sizes + lengths and features a stunning silk waistband that provides that extra dose of pretty. Not to mention the insanely gorgeous color options. I’m talking soft, romantic shades like ivory, dusty blue and seafoam and a seriously sophisticated champagne hue that is the perfect complement to every party on your agenda. Which means that whether you’re heading downtown to meet your besties for coffee, brunching it up with the one you love or partying the night away, Alexandra Grecco has six layers of beautiful tulle just waiting to take your breath away.

Can’t wait to dance the holiday season away in a dazzling Alexandra Grecco tulle skirt? Click here for more info, and be sure to check out the Lace Elliot Top in ivory, pale gray, nude or black for pairing with your skirt, dress or even denim.

SMP readers will receive 20% off their order with the code “stylemepretty15″… and that includes already reduced items!

What: Alexandra Grecco is giving away a stunning tulle skirt in any size or color offered to one lucky SMP reader! (Value $188)

How: Simply leave a comment below telling us where you plan to wear your lovely Alexandra Grecco skirt!

Who: One winner, chosen completely at random, will be announced right here on SMP on Friday, December 4, 2015. For terms and conditions, click here. Good luck, lovelies! xo

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Photography: Elizabeth Messina | Hair: Brittany Romney | Makeup: Mandy Bisesti

It’s no secret around here that we’re uhb-sessed with Brideside  — the online retailer with a huge collection of designer bridesmaid dresses that offer a fresh take on wedding party fashion! With the help of a style consultant offering an extra set of eyes + some pretty fab suggestions, Brideside makes it easier than ever to outfit your besties. Ready to see what’s hot for 2016.

Hot off the bridal runway, here’s what Brideside’s style consultants are loving for this wedding season!

1) Separates: Especially the AltarEgo collection (a collaboration with bridal gown designer Kelly Faetanini). These stunners can be changed with a snap between the ceremony and reception. Offered in six short styles that can be work on their own or paired with any of the four long skirts for a full-length option, we can’t get enough of these separates! Not only can the chic skirts be removed at the reception for a totally different look, but they can be worn again and again after the big day!

2) Convertible Dresses: Let your ladies feel confident in a shape that works for them! These dresses can be tied different ways (think one shoulder, halter + and spaghetti straps) to give a bit of variance in your overall wedding party look.

3) Sequins + Metallics + Mixed Materials: OH my! We love a good mix + match, especially when it’s done around a perfect palette. Give your ladies a range of hues and then let them get creative! Mix it up with different materials, textures and shades of color — and the result? A perfect blend of personalities.

Choosing the best look for your ladies is as easy as opening an account and saving your favorite styles. From there, your style consultant can send swatches and even sample dresses to see in person with their try-at-home program! The simple online shop + checkout makes it easy to get dresses ordered and delivered with time to spare. Seriously, Brideside takes the guesswork out of wedding party attire.

We couldn’t be happier to share that Brideside isn’t just for the ladies anymore — they’re now offering tons of ties, bow ties, pocket squares and socks to coordinate with the rest of the wedding! To celebrate this exciting news, they’re giving the first 50 people to buy men’s ties $25 OFF using code SMPLOVESDUDES. Offer valid on men’s accessories purchases of $50 or more. Offer valid through 11:59pm CST October 28th, 2015.

But the fun’s not over just yet…

The Prize: One lucky bridal party will win $250 toward their wedding party look!

To Enter: Head over here.  Contest closes on 10/30/15 at 11:59pm CST. Winner will be announced 11/4/15. Good luck!

Bridesmaids' Dresses: Brideside

Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better than their autumn-inspired rehearsal, I saw Heather Waraksa’s captures plus Buzz Media’s film of the big day and officially found my new favorite wedding. It’s an ode to all things fall (read: an entire wall of apples on display), with New England’s famous foliage playing backdrop. Bellafare planned, Matthew Robbins designed, and Facetime Beauty took hair and makeup to the next level. One little look inside THE VAULT and you’ll be totally convinced an autumn wedding is for you.

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From The Bride… Before the wedding, I had a two-year fellowship with the Yale Sustainable Food Program. I was their Lazarus Fellow in Sustainable Food an Agriculture, and I organized educational programming for the Program. Before that, I worked as a line cook at the restaurant Rouge Tomate in NYC, and went to culinary school at the Natural Gourmet Institute.

Chris is currently on sabbatical from Dalberg Global Development Advisors, a management consulting firm working to fight poverty, where he is a Project Leader. He’s worked with the company for 5 years. While we travel, we’re both writing children’s stories, a passion of both of ours.

We met while we were undergraduates at Yale University. We first met at a party when I was a newly-minted freshman and Chris was just starting his senior year. The party was broken up before we could really talk, so we went our separate ways. As fate would have it, Chris came back for an extra semester (the fall of 2007) — he played football at Yale, and had red-shirted for a season because of injuries. We started dating when Chris was back for his ‘victory lap,’ so to speak.

Two things were very important to us: the weekend atmosphere and the food. We really wanted a location where our family and wedding party could stay on property, so we could all be together. We also knew that we wanted to get married in the Northeast in the fall, because the foliage is so gorgeous. Winvian offered the exact atmosphere we wanted, as well as the food. They cultivate their own organic vegetable garden, raise chickens, pigs, and lambs, and the chef (Chris Eddy) works only with seasonal, local ingredients. During my time at the Yale Sustainable Food Program, I had gotten to know some of the local farmers that Winvian worked with, so it all seemed perfect. Not to mention, Winvian does all wedding catering a la minute (nothing pre-cooked or pre-made) and the chef does it himself. Suffice to say, Winvian was everything we dreamed of, and more.

I would our theme was “cozy fall weekend.” We had blankets everywhere, a bonfire with s’mores at the rehearsal dinner, fires roaring in all the fireplaces across the property, and at the reception, an entire wall was lined with apples (inspired by the restaurant Bouley in NYC that does this every fall).

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From Bellafare… The bride, Kate, had always envisioned lots of greens for her wedding day but no florals. Based on this, our gray/gold/and green themed emerged and was cohesive throughout the wedding day.

Upon arrival, guests were greeted with spritzers to get the special evening started. After settling in, guests took their seats on vintage church pews lined with potted plants and cozy pashminas and pillows, to keep warm during the brisk Autumn day. The heartfelt ceremony was performed by the bride’s grandmother, Gammy, and included an ode to Kate and Chris’ childhood stuffed animals. Following the ceremony, guests sipped on cocktails outside of Grandma’s kitchen and rested their feet on the gorgeous collection of ottomans, couches, and chairs that Matthew Robbin’s team curated.

Once guests had a chance to mingle, they were invited to dinner in the Gordon Brown House. As they walked through the stone pathway leading to the barn, a surprise fireworks show kicked off the night! Immediately upon entering the Gordon Brown House, guests could smell the fragrant apple wall alongside the entrance, which was designed after one of the couples’ favorite restaurants, Bouley.

Each guest’s name and table number was hand written on a wooden stake nestled into a bed of herbs. A vignette of apples, vintage books, and benches were placed outside of the barn near the entrance and gray fabric was elegantly draped throughout the tents and entrance of the barn. The tables varied from rounds with a luxurious custom gray linen and long wooden tables with custom striped taupe and ivory runners down the center. Each place setting include a rustic yet sophisticated white Tuscan charger with a watercolor menu painted by hand. In addition to the collection of greens on each table, the barn rafters were wrapped in elegant garland, which framed the dance floor.

To finish off the look, Matthew’s team installed copper rattan lanterns that illuminated the barn in a romantic glow. Again, the cuisine was five-star with the emphasis on the locally sourced and fresh ingredients. After being glued to the dance floor all night, the guests departed with a tiny jar of herbed salts made from scratch by the bride and groom!

Photography: Heather Waraksa | Cinematography: Buzz Media Company- Wedding Films | Event Design: Matthew Robbins | Event Planning: Bellafare | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Bride's Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Jewelry: Julie Vos | Rings: Sofia Kaman | Catering: Winvian Farm | Hair And Makeup: Face Time Beauty Concierge | Lighting: Event Lights | Band: Elan Artists | Groom's Attire: Michael Andrews Bespoke | Venue: Winvian Farm | Bridesmaid's Gifts: Julie Vos | Film Processing: Richard Photo Lab | Stationery And Calligraphy: I DO INVITATIONS by Sue Coe Designs

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P.S. 15 Reasons To Choose a Fall Wedding

Fall Wedding Inspiration

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Fall Wedding Inspiration

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Fall is upon us, friends and we’re savoring up all the cozy touches the season has to offer in weddings, engagements and the surrounding events like rehearsal dinners. Layered with plaid throws, copper mugs, secret kisses by little red barns, pulled pork and adorable sheep pairings, this one planned by Bellafare and designed by Matthew Robbins is exactly why we love autumn so. See even more from Heather Waraksa in THE VAULT and stay tuned for the wedding this afternoon!

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From Bellafare…Inspired by a family trip to Jack’s Camp in Botswana. We incorporated layered kilum rugs, white director’s chairs, copper lanterns, and red draping to emulate the unique African feel from the camp they loved so much. Guests dined on family style dishes including braised kale, locally grown vegetables, bbq pulled pork, and flank steak under a red glow throughout the evening. The tablescape was craftfully designed to include copper containers with natural greens, brown apothecary jars with hand painted table numbers, vibrant red chargers, and wooden flatware at each place setting. The Winvian is known for their farm-to-table cuisine, so we thought it was only fitting to incorporate little touches of the farm, like the hand painted gold pigs with kraft paper tags placed on each charger. Immediately following the dinner, guests were invited to join the bonfire, where the party continued over s’mores and mulled wine.

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More rehearsal dinners this way!

Photography: Heather Waraksa | Event Design: Matthew Robbins | Event Planning: Bellafare | Stationery : I DO INVITATIONS by Sue Coe Designs | Catering: Winvian Farm | Calligraphy: I DO INVITATIONS by Sue Coe Designs | Lighting: Event Lights | Band: Deadly Venoms | Venue: Winvian Farm | Film Processing: Richard Photo Lab | Tent Rentals: Sperry Tents

I’m a complete sucker for anything seaside inspired. It’s my inspiration achilles heel. And when its executed in a way the truly exudes elegance and romance, like what’s happening below, I truly become weak in the knees. Which is why I simply want to reach through the screen and give Callie Manion a big ‘ol hug this morning, because with the help of one seriously talented team, she whipped up a shoot that is sure to stick with me for a very long time. See why here.

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From Callie Manion…I love the romanticism and intimacy of an elopement; dashing away to celebrate your commitment to each other in such an intimate setting is one of the most romantic things I can imagine. I also love the amazing details that come from planning a wedding; spending months picking out the best pieces and showing your personality and relationship in minute details is beautiful and shows how much love and thought went into wedding planning. I wanted to create an inspiration shoot that would marry these two ideas and show brides that they can have an elopement be just as well planned out as a big wedding, and that they don’t have to sacrifice all the amazing little details that can make a wedding unique.

I was inspired by this idea of marrying two opposites together and continued this theme by playing with the union of hard and soft. The biggest example of this converse relationship is seen in my choice of location. I knew I wanted the shoot to take place ocean-side to portray a sense of escape from the world. But I chose this specific location because of the beautiful juxtaposition of the hard and ragged rocks against the soft and calming waters. Positioning the bride standing on the rocks, facing the open waters further exaggerated this relationship and made for some truly striking images.

This pairing of hard and soft can also be seen in the small details of the floral arrangements. Jakkelyn from Jakkelyn Iris Florals paired soft whites together with spiky browns to create beautiful and textured pieces.

One more example of how I incorporated this theme into the shoot is seen in the table setting and other details. I took care to always have the soft and flowing fabric mixed with the hardness of the shells and rocks found on the beach. I love the rough beauty of the shells as they mirror the giant rocks, and the gentleness of the fabric, as it mirrors the calming waters.

It was important to me to carry this theme throughout the shoot, even down to the bride and groom’s place settings. Betsy from Lemontree Calligraphy gracefully penned their names in gorgeous, delicate calligraphy on a hard, but smooth shell.

My goal was for this shoot to feel easy, carefree, and intimate. Placing the bride and groom out on the rocks, with nothing but open water behind them, I wanted to symbolize that on their wedding day, nothing is more important than the union of the bride and groom. I also placed their table low to the ground, taking away the need for chairs, to further show the intimacy of an elopement. After the vows have been read and the rings have been exchanged, the couple can cuddle up close and dine while they watch the sun set on their beautiful day.

Above all, I wanted this shoot to inspire brides and show that a small, intimate elopement can be just as beautiful and just as well thought out, as a big wedding. So if celebrating their marriage with a traditional wedding doesn’t fit a bride and groom’s personalities, then there are plenty of other ways they can choose to celebrate!

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SEE MORE SEASIDE INSPIRATION HERE

Floral Design: Jakkelyn Iris Designs | Wedding Dress: Gossamer | Cake: Andrea Saunders | Calligraphy & Invitations: Lemontree Calligraphy & Illustration | Venue: Lighthouse Point Park | Film Processing: PhotoVision Prints | Glassware: Anthropologie | Photography & Styling: Callie Manion | Ring Box: The Mrs Box

When you’re one of three and the last sibling to tie the knot, both challenges and blessings are sure to meet you in the planning process. Case in point? These two sweeties captured by Meredith Perdue. Beyond the biggest hurdle of finding a unique venue, they were lucky enough to have several vendors recommended to them by the Bride’s siblings, including Hana Floral Design who also worked her magic on the Bride’s sister’s wedding that we featured a few years back! See the rest here in THE VAULT.

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From The Bride…Joe and I were married in July before a group of close family and friends at the Branford House at Avery Point in Connecticut. Being the third and last of my siblings to wed, led to some benefits and challenges! Among the challenges was finding a location we loved that would be unique to us (in other words, we didn’t want to revisit a venue that had already hosted a sibling’s wedding, which was hard because our siblings got married in such amazing spots). However, the Branford House ended up working out really well for us—we were still on the shoreline and it was fun to choose a spot where my family had previously enjoyed picnics and where I had taken a physics class over the summer while home from college. It’s fun to think that I have pictures of me from elementary school enjoying a grinder on the steps of the lighthouse on the property and I now also have our first look photos from almost the same spot.

Among the benefits was that Joe and I were able to put all of the wisdom and experience that my siblings had gained from their shoreline weddings to good use! We knew right away that we would use the same wonderful caterer and we also used the same amazing florist that my sister & brother-in-law worked with (as well as the same musician for the ceremony!). Another benefit—our splendid photographer, Meredith Perdue, was recommended to us by brother & sister-in-law as both a great photographer and great person and, as promised, she made two camera-shy people feel comfortable and relaxed!

I am grateful that we managed to bring personal touches into the ceremony. Joe and I met while serving as law clerks and we were so honored to be able to have the judge that we clerked for officiate. It was also particularly meaningful to us to have close friends contribute readings and offer blessings.

My sister and brother-in-law’s wedding was featured on Style Me Pretty at as well! See it here.

Photography: Meredith Perdue | Floral Design: Hana Floral Design | Catering: A Thyme to Cook, Inc. | Hair And Makeup: Jennie Fresa Brow & Beauty Bar | DJ: Dawson Entertainment | Venue: Branford House | Bridal Boutique: The White Dress by the shore

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

Hana Floral Design

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Mark your calendars, loves.  The second annual South End Wedding Showcase is happening this September 23rd – 24th from 4 to 8 pm, and let me tell you… this is one pretty party you can’t afford to miss.  Think yummy treats, fabulous vendors and unique products + services, all set against the historical architecture and Victorian charm that is one of our favorite neighborhoods.  Sooo fun.

Picture the coolest bridal showcase you’ve ever attended meets one seriously awesome holiday stroll and you’ll land squarely on the South End Wedding showcase, two evenings of meeting and greeting some of the most talented vendors in all of Boston.  You’ll visit open studios and shops, munch on some goodies, see fabulous demonstrations and talk all things wedding with a group of owners and artists that are sure to take your wedding to the next level.  Not to mention that each business you’ll enter is independently owned and operated, so you can plan the day of your dreams AND support your local community. We love that.

So what are you waiting for, SMPers?  Start making plans to attend the South End Wedding Showcase on September 23rd or 24th from 4 – 8 pm.  You will be treated to an array of special (+ seriously awesome) services and promotions during the event, including free Boston Pedicab rides as transportation, discounted parking and a free glass of bubbly at any Aquitaine Group restaurant.  And don’t forget that shops and studios will be offering up specialty cocktails, champagne toasts and little bites along the way! To register (and we suggest you do), click here!

The South End Wedding Showcase vendors are giving away free raffle prizes to participants who visit all (or the most) of the map locations and tag #SEWS2015 in their Instagram photo of that place! You can see these raffle prizes on display at one of the map locations (to be announced) and prizes will be given away after the event is over and all the hashtags are counted up.

Plus, expect to see some wonderful discounts on merchandise or services at each studio and store. Check back often on our “Participating Studios & Stores” page to see what each map location is offering the evenings of the event!

There are exciting giveaways, and then there is the kind of exciting giveaway we are about to announce right here, right now on the pages of SMP.  Think the fabulously talented NST Pictures + YOU, our dear and very awesome readers + an all-inclusive wedding cinematography package giveaway valued at $4810. It’s a prize package to end all prize packages and you can find out all you need to know below!

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Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, but with all of the hustle and bustle of every moment, you’ll barely have a chance to soak it all in.  Enter NST Pictures, an artistic cinematographer that knows all there is to know about capturing those moments you’ll cherish for always; from their stunning films using multiple camera angles to their breathtaking HD footage to their fabulous music choices that will leave your heart swelling ’til the very end.  And with packages starting at just $980, there’s most definitely a customizable option perfect for you and your sweetie in the Tri-State, Mid-Atlantic, New England and Southern California areas.

Call NST Pictures today to begin your cinematic journey.  Then read below to enter one of the coolest ever giveaways.

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What: NST Pictures is giving away an all-inclusive wedding cinematography package to one lucky couple, including a full day of coverage with two cinematographers, a trailer film, a feature film, a documentary edit, USB copies and HD digital film links! (Value $4810)

How: To enter, and for all terms and conditions, click here. Good luck, lovelies! xo

Planning your wedding is filled with a lot of difficult decisions, but when it comes to partnering with a team of catering + event design professionals who know everything about crafting a day that is perfect for you and yours, Fancy Girl Table is IT.  Think innovative menus, beautiful decor and organic + locally sourced ingredients that will transform your wedding into the foodie paradise you’ve always imagined.

Founded by Jeanette Maier with a mission to serve only the freshest food possible, Fancy Girl Table brings local Hudson Valley farmers’ organic ingredients straight from the earth to your table.  Which means better color, quality and flavor in a menu that is completely customized for you and your event. From those special entrees created to take advantage of the season to the hors d’oeuvres served on repurposed wood to the carefully chosen wine pairings that more than complement each amazing course.  Not to mention Fancy Girl Table’s ability to transform your event space into a stunning reflection of you and your love… whether that’s a laid-back affair in your backyard or a ballroom fete for 250 of your closest family and friends.

Call Fancy Girl Table today to begin creating the sustainable, earth-friendly event you’ve always imagined.

Photography: Brian Furbush | Catering: Fancy Girl Table | Hudson Valley Winery: Benmarl Winery

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

Catering

Fancy Girl Table

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