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Behind the Scenes with Britt Bass Turner

A life filled with color, creativity and a super cute dog is a life well spent in my humble opinion and I think Britt Bass Turner  would agree. Through the images of Kathryn McCrary, we’re catching a glimpse of STUDIO STUDIO. It’s the cozy spot where Britt creates those wildly beautiful paintings of hers, holds fun Studio Sessions (click here for a glimpse) and carves out a little time to chat about life, work and wearing bras. Click here for more!

SMP: Some words you live by?
“Comparison is the thief of joy.” Theodore Roosevelt

SMP: Any guilty pleasures?
HBO’s Girls

SMP: What is your favorite item in your home?
This changes with each new acquisition, naturally, but right now it’s a giant 4×4′ weaving made by my childhood best friend and talented artist Liv Grant of Liv + Work

SMP: What’s your best tip for balancing work and personal life?
Work is a part of life, but not life. Work is a part of my identity but not my identity. These two truths drive my decision making, help me to create boundaries, and allow me to remove the emotion and separate work and personal life, this is crucial and so important to me!

SMP: What is the hardest lesson in business you’ve ever learned?
Learning how to say NO, I’m still practicing!!

SMP: What color do you think will stand the test of trend time?
All the colors! I have no trend time! Every color is the best!

SMP: If you could buy yourself a single gift of any cost, what would it be?
Unlimited massages! Yes please.

SMP: Three things every home should have?
A dog, a growing art collection, fresh flowers

SMP: Your secret to success?
No fear!

SMP: Best moment of your career so far:
Opening party of STUDIO STUDIO.

SMP: What would you do differently if you knew nobody would judge you?
Never wear a bra, and always where a robe while sipping champagne.

SMP: Your favorite instagrammers?
@moeblake, @carolinebrewer

SMP: What’s one thing you really want to do, but have never done?
Get a tattoo! Don’t tell my in-laws!

SMP: The best advice you’ve ever received?
Only you can be you, so do you.

SMP: Where do you see yourself in five years?
Painting in a white studio with lots of natural light, maybe a few more puppies, in a robe with a glass of champagne….

Photography: Kathryn Mccrary | Artist / Owner: Britt Bass Turner | Studio: Britt Bass Turner

Chic and Modern Atlanta Wedding

This modern Atlanta affair takes the black and white combo to new levels of chic. Kate And Campbell wrapped up every pretty detail of this black tie fete with creamy Unique Floral Expressions blooms and one stunning Gabriel’s Desserts cake, while Scobey Photography was behind the scenes snapping up every detail here.

From Scobey Photography… Julie and Anthony’s stunning Atlanta Wedding was full of meaning, joy and bold details. There is something magical about Winter Weddings, and this one was especially magical. Kate and Campbell did a beautiful job incorporating modern black and white stripes with timeless florals and a stunning, iconic Atlanta location. All of these elements made for one amazing celebration!

Photography: Scobey Photography | Event Design: Kate And Campbell Weddings | Floral Design: Unique Floral Expressions | Wedding Dress: Modern Trousseau | Cake: Gabriel's Desserts | Ceremony: Christ The King Parish | Reception: Swan House Mansion | Bride's Shoes: Kate Spade | Caterer: Bold American Events | Transportation: Atlantic Limo | Bridal Salon: Kelly's Closet | Bride's Hair: White Salon & Spa

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

It isn’t the flowers (or even the chocolate) that make today day special, it’s the love. The type of love that is  – without a doubt – worth celebrating. The type of love that radiates warmth and fills your heart with happiness. And it’s that type of love that brought this duo lakeside, bringing along blankets, a darling pup, and Gracie Blue Photography to capture every heartwarming image here!

From Gracie Blue PhotographyThis winter I had the pleasure of taking portraits of Carole and Chris for their one year anniversary. We met by a lake on a cold Sunday morning and these two wonderful people preceded to take my breath away.

On Valentine’s Day, I couldn’t help but think of Carole and Chris; the way they kept each other warm and were considerate of one another. They loved being together, holding each other, and just taking the time to appreciate what life looks like for them right now. This is what I want to celebrate about love.

Love is a team effort. She doesn’t fall because he’s there to guide her through the rocks. He’s confident because she fills him with acceptance and reassurance. At the end of the day, flowers and chocolates don’t hold a candle to the rush you feel when that special someone holds you close and confesses that your love is a gift 365 days a year.

Photography: Gracie Blue Photography

Romantic Outdoor Garden Wedding

What happens when two long-time loves wed in a gorgeous garden affair? I’ll tell you – a whole lot of lovely. Chancey Charm Weddings made sure Georgian dreams were a romantic reality with peach Ann’s Porch Florist blooms,  Compozitionz serenading the happy couple, and Cottrell Photography snapping up every bit of it. More here!

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From the beautiful Bride… The first time Zeid and I got coffee we were co-workers living in states over 3,000 miles apart, both dating other people. It should’ve been an ordinary day, an innocuous cup of coffee, but something clicked and we knew it. I called my grandmother right after and told her that I had met the most amazing man. Fast forward several months later, we began our long-distance dating adventure. After a relocation to the same state and 1000 days of dating (yes he counted) Zeid proposed.

Some little girls spend years imagining their gowns or their flowers on their “big days”, but I was the girl who knew for years what music I wanted to walk down the aisle to – “Joy” by George Winston. A friend from college ended up learning to play it on the piano for me and that made it even more special.

I think what surprised me the most about the ceremony was how natural everything felt. I was a little jittery right before, but experienced an overwhelming sense of peace and calm once my dad and I began to walk down the aisle. Everything was the way it was meant to be.

So many of our family and friends helped out to add finishing touches and make logistics easier and that was very humbling. The day played out like a fairy tale and we feel incredibly blessed and thankful.

Photography: Cottrell Photography | Event Planning: Chancey Charm | Floral Design: Ann's Porch Florist | Wedding Dress: Anne Barge | Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas | Shoes: Anthropologie | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Alfred Angelo | Catering: Ibiza Bites | Band: Compozitionz | Grooms Attire: Jos. A. Bank | Venue: Private Residence | Film Lab: Film Box Lab | Veil: Anthropologie

Rustic Vinewood Plantation Wedding

I’m a big believer in fate, and these Southern sweeties are the perfect example why. An ode circumstances, their day was filled with personality and with Paperlily behind the lens every image will have you smiling before you can say “Serendipity”. With a dessert table literally filled by loved ones, this graphic designing Bride and her beloved prove to be the picture-perfect pair here!

 

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From the beautiful Bride… Even though we went to the same college and had the same group of friends for years, Conley and I somehow managed not to meet until 2011. I guess fate was waiting for the right time. We got engaged in 2012 and started planning our wedding for early 2013.

We were having a hard time finding the right venue until we found Paperlily Photography. They completely understood my style and the look and feel we were going for. They lead me to Vinewood which lead me to all my other vendors as well. Conley and I fell in love with the southern, vintage, casual yet elegant charm of Vinewood. I knew that the barn would be a huge hit with Conleys side of the family since they are from Kentucky and dabble in horse racing. Since Vinewood already has so many rustic details we added more formal accents like chandeliers, mix matched china, flowers, my dress, and our cake.

I am a graphic designer and my mom is an interior designer so we knew we could use those creative skills to our advantage while planning the wedding. I took on many projects, partly to save money and partly so that we could control the outcome. We created the moss escort card board, tool boxes for floral arrangements, burlap wreaths, bunting banners, flower girl and ring bearer accessories, the dessert table and the invitations and stationary. My mom and I love birds, so we added bird details wherever we could as well. I also did the design and production of all the invitation pieces and all printed materials used throughout the wedding. It was a huge project and I am so lucky that Conley helped me assemble them and tolerated my messes! The dessert table was special because our family members provided the desserts. Conleys identical twin grandmother and aunt made Neimen Marcus bars, my Aunt made her famous banana pudding and my cousins talented wife made several things too. We are so blessed that they helped out and that we are always surrounded by so many yummy things!

Conley and I decided to go with our favorite BBQ restaurant for catering and it was one of the best decisions we made. Fox Brothers was amazing and the food was a huge hit! Without our family, friends and amazing vendors, we would never have had pulled it off! We are thankful to everyone for all their help making our special day all the more special.

Photography: Paperlily Photography | Coordination: Vinewood Plantation | Florist: The Perfect Poppy | Wedding Cake: Blooming Flour | Bridesmaids' Dresses: J.Crew | Bridesmaids' Dresses: J.Crew | Catering: Fox Brothers BBQ | Makeup Artist: Claudia Mejerle | Hair: Claudia Mejerle | Men's Attire: Bridals By Lori | Wedding Venue: Vinewood Plantation | Invitation Designer: Bride | Wedding Band: EastCoast Entertainment

Romantic Summer Wedding at The Georgian Terrace

After staring at grey skies for what seems like eternity here in the northeast, this wedding is a breath of fresh air. Bright and cheerful, with some of the prettiest pink florals by Bloomin Bouquets that I’ve ever seen, this summer celebration is giving me the hope I need on these dreary days. Our Labor Of Love worked their magic once again and their photos won’t be leaving my desktop anytime soon.

From The Bride… Bryan and I met while working on Capitol Hill in DC in 2010 and were engaged on the rooftop of the Kennedy Center before seeing The Book of Mormon (I remember nothing). As southerners, we could not resist an opportunity to host our guests in either my beautiful hometown of Live Oak, Florida or my college town of Dahlonega, Georgia. When neither or these options worked out due to lack of accommodations for our guests, we panicked and immediately hired a wedding planner to help us with the process. Melissa helped us narrow down nearly every venue in the state of Georgia before we settled on the Georgian Terrace and we couldn’t have been happier. I was finishing graduate school and Bryan was in the throes of law school during our planning process, so Melissa became like a member of our family that we frequently spoke to over the phone. And thank goodness because everything was beyond what we had dreamed.

Early on in the planning process, we agreed that one of the most important parts of our wedding would be including our large families. Bryan included his brothers, my brother, and his best friends as groomsmen, and my sister, sister-in-law, and friends were in my bridal party. My Dad and Step-Dad walked me down the aisle, and my cousin, Trey, who is two months younger than I, read a Bible verse during the ceremony. We also insisted that all of our younger cousins be in attendance, and they were all the life of the party.

At the recommendation of the Georgian Terrace, we skipped the cocktail hour for a private dinner together, and it was one of the best decisions we made. We had private time to celebrate, and we went in to the reception ready to mingle with each table instead of sitting for dinner.

I would say that our introductions to double dutch and Jump Around really set the tone for the night, but the speeches at the reception really made the night. My Dad gave a beautiful prayer and my brother followed with the most moving and heartfelt welcome I’ve ever heard. My sister read a quote from my grandmother who couldn’t attend, and Bryan’s brothers and co-best men delivered a tag-team toast that had us rolling on the ground.

When we look back on the reception, we of course remember those special times, but also how beautiful everything was. Melissa, our wedding planner, spent endless hours hand-making our beautiful table numbers, letters for the cake table, and the cigar table signs. One of the most beautiful elements of the reception was the handmade magnolia garland down the center of the estate table as the focal point of the room. Sarah, our florist, alternated centerpiece designs for the other tables, using mirrors to reflect the light of the gold and silver votives. Our guests loved having cigars out on the terrace, and the reception hall never felt overcrowded to us.

Our photos from the wedding are a great representation of how the day played out – our getting ready processes in our suites were fun and laughter-filled, the ceremony and reception were really emotional and lighthearted, and we had the time of our lives. Amber and Lucas were great to work with and faded into the background of the reception to capture real moments instead of hours of posing. Some of my favorite images are of us getting ready for the day. Amber did a really great job of capturing happy moments behind the scenes.

Looking back on the day, it was one of the most beautiful days of our lives, made even better by our vendors and friends and family who went above and beyond to make it special.

Photography: Our Labor of Love | Wedding Planner: Melissa Bloomfield Of Pretty Swell Parties | Floral Design: Bloomin’ Bouquets: Unique Floral and Event Design | Cake: Frosted Pumpkin Gourmet, Inc. | Ceremony Venue: Second Ponce De Leon Baptist Church | Reception Venue: Georgian Terrace | Bridesmaids' Dresses: J.Crew | Catering: Georgian Terrace | Hair And Makeup: Jennifer C Nieman | DJ: Josh Whitlock | Ties: Charles Tyrwhitt | Suits: Jos. A. Bank | Reception Escort Cards: Jenkins Rose Modern Paper

Commerce Street Events

This wedding is everything.  A heartfelt ceremony set against a breathtaking backdrop, a dance ’til the sun comes up reception and drop-dead gorgeous details wowing each and every guest.  It’s the kind of wedding that mixes Southern tradition with a little modern bling, and it was all planned and designed by the team at Commerce Street Events, a group of ladies that know a thing or two about perfect weddings.

From the stunning ceremony featuring a floral arbor, fabulous custom made doors and wooden church pews to the rustic farm tables highlighting the reception, this is a day that is all about the details. Something the team at Commerce Street Events is so very, very good at.  They have the ability to take your story (in this case, an adorable duo who literally fell in love over their shared love of wine) and make that story the centerpiece of your big day.  Think an Arrington Vineyards setting meets a sophisticated elegance that is literally jaw-dropping (hello, chandeliers).  Teaming up with Commerce Street Events means hiring a group of amazing planners and designers who will walk with you step by step throughout the process, from event design and management, set-up and tear down, timeline management, guest services, vendor negotiations… and more.  Which means that fairytale wedding you’ve been envisioning is right at your fingertips.

Contact Commerce Street Events TODAY to begin planning that wedding of a lifetime.  You most definitely won’t regret it.

Photography: Ace Photography | Event Design & Planning: Commerce Street Events | Florals: Making Arrangements Florist | Wedding Dress: Pronovias | Cake: Dessert Designs | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Bella Bridesmaid | Catering: Chef's Market | Hair & Makeup: Meg Boes | Lighting: Nashville Event Lighting | Band: The Nashville Bluetones | Transportation: Grand Avenue | Ceremony & Reception Venue: Lilac Farms At Arrington Vineyards | Ceremony Musicians: The Nashville Bluetones | Custom Logo: Green Bean Paper Company | Draping: Visual Elements | Fine Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Paper Goods: Donna Birtle's Gifts | Rentals & Linens: Southern Events Party Rental & Vintage Prop Shoppe | Wine: Arrington Vineyard

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Rustic Golf Themed Georgia Wedding

When a theme is done well, the outcome can be fantastic. And that is what we have here with this couple’s love of golf represented perfectly at their summer celebration. No Regrets Events incorporated tees, golf markers and clubs throughout the rustic wedding with The Reason capturing every detail. These pics have me ready to dust off my clubs and get outside with my fiancé for a session of our own.

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From No Regrets Events… Amanda’s family has called Lake Sinclair in Milledgeville, Georgia home for a long time so she and Bill knew that Lake Sinclair and the beautiful golf course of the Milledgeville Country Club would be the perfect backdrop for their August wedding. Their lifetime love of golf brought them together and they enjoy spending their off time on the fairways. It was only reasonable that their wedding ceremony should take place on the 18th tee box overlooking beautiful Lake Sinclair and that their reception would be on the 16th tee of the same course.

Amanda’s presented Zeb Grant of Z. Grant Designs with a unique wedding challenge…no cut flowers in the bride’s bouquet and any used for centerpieces should be kept to only seasonal locally grown items! Of course, Zeb rose to the challenge by incorporating beautiful succulents, vintage furniture and golf clubs, live plants and trees that have to be repurposed on the club’s golf course in honor of the bride’s father, and Zeb even incorporated a monogrammed golf club marker into the groom’s boutonniere and the bride’s bouquet. Since blue hydrangeas are in abundance this time of year in Georgia he used blossoms cut from his yard in the buffet centerpieces. We did sneak a single white rose into Amanda’s grandmother’s tussy mussy in remembrance of her grandfather.

We are certain many golfers have said a prayer or two on the 18th hole, but the beautiful pews by P.E.W.S. gave the tee box the feel of a sanctuary. The antique door alter was created by Vintage Rentals and framed the couple with the lake in the background. Vintage golf clubs served as pew markers and lovely urns set the alter off perfectly.

For the reception, Amanda and Bill were all about comfort foods made with fresh, local products, with a southern flair. The Chef at the Milledgeville Country Club went above and beyond to source products and to beautifully present them.

Amanda and Bill are huge sports fans and their favorite game watching food is boiled peanuts and craft beer. They wanted to share these favorite items with their guests so they presented a beer in a koozie with the couple’s logo and peanuts in a Weck jar as favors.

Amanda and Bill chose to remain at the reception until its conclusion rather than having a grand send off. They wanted to spend as much time as possible with their family and friends.

Photography: The Reason | Wedding Cake: Cakes By Debra | Groom's Attire: Brooks Brothers | Ceremony Music: Mark Maxwell | Boutique: Kelly's Closet | Bride's Gown: Jenny Packham | Ceremony Pews: P.E.W.S. | Floral and Decor: Z. Grant Designs | Furniture: Southern Vintage | Linens: I Do Linens | Milledgeville Country Club: Milledgeville Country Club | Planning: No Regrets Events | Printing: Simply Put | Reception Entertainment: Amp'd Atlanta | Rentals: Goodwin Events

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
Ford Plantation Wedding with Southern Elegance

When these Southern sweeties began planning their Big Day, representing family roots was an absolute must. Surrounded by Spanish moss and starlight, Caroline Carter planned an evening around Southern specialties served family style accented by wild grass Garden On The Square blooms. TimWill and Artworks Wedding Cinema beautifully captured the joy felt, and you can see it all here!

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From the beautiful Bride…We wanted our wedding day to feel full of warmth and joy. The kind of warmth and joy that overcomes you after you share a delicious meal and wine with your oldest friends and family. That’s the good stuff. We wanted that same joy and warmth to permeate through every aspect of our day. Sort of like a thank you to our guests for giving us the same happiness our entire lives.

There was no question when planning the wedding that we would get married at The Ford Plantation, a place that is truly special to our family and us. For years Will and I would tell our friends about this amazing place and we couldn’t wait to share it with them. We wanted our guests to experience the same magic that enchants us about Ford. As an interior decorator, surroundings are very important to me. I wanted our décor and flowers to enhance the breathtaking beauty that surrounded us, almost like they could have always been there. Our ceremony couldn’t have been more magical. Will’s sister delivered a heartfelt and personal homily, the soft evening sun beamed through oak trees as we exchanged vows, and we made our way down the aisle as a married couple to Mumford & Sons, “I Will Wait”.

We dined under the stars surrounded by the swaying Spanish moss covered oak trees that lined the property. We drank a variety of bourbons curated by our fathers, and Schramsberg, an ode to our engagement. We shared buttermilk fried chicken (my grandma’s specialty!), shrimp and grits, and biscuits and cornbread. We insisted on eating family style to give that feeling of friendship and warmth. We danced under sparkly chandeliers and ended the evening with glittery gold pom poms during our favorite wedding song, “Shout” by the Isley Brothers. Not a single person strayed away from the dance floor that night.

After eight years of dating, we finally had all of our family and friends in one place and could finally call each other “husband” and “wife”. It was the most joy and warmth we’ve ever felt. It was certainly worth the long nights of DIY and a very patient husband dealing with a garage covered in gold glitter and spray paint.

We were so grateful to work with such an amazing team of vendors. A big thank you to Caroline Carter who personally harvested wild grasses for our flower arrangements off the side of the highway (and was questioned by the highway patrol, talk about a superstar!) and to Tim Willoughby who beautifully captured exactly what our hearts felt that day: WARMTH and JOY!

Photography: TimWill Photography | Videography: Artworks Wedding Cinema | Coordination: Caroline Carter Events | Flowers: Garden On The Square | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Cake: Minette Rushing | Stationery: Lauren Pendleton Design (Bride) | Ceremony Venue: The Ford Plantation | Reception Venue: The Ford Plantation | Catering: The Ford Plantation | Lighting: JLK Events | Officiant: Reverend Steve Schulte | Ceremony & Cocktail Hour Band: City Hotel Band | Envelope And Signage Calligraphy: Emily Norman Calligraphy | Invitation & Monogram Calligraphy: Plurabelle | Macarons: Maison De Macarons | Reception Band: EastCoast Entertainment | Rentals: Ooh! EventHaus | Rentals: Beachview Tent Rentals

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

We’ve seen our fair share of weddings, but an “I do” that takes place literally right on the river? That’s an unbelievably cool first. It’s just one of the many noteworthy moments of this intimate, rustic affair (planned in 8 weeks!), and the flowers by Lindsay Coletta add the perfect balance of texture and style. Read on for the story that brought these two adorables together, and see the whole day through the lens of Laura Gordon.

From The Bride… When I was 7 years old and lugging my softball gear around the rec fields near my house, I never dreamed that my groom- to-be was the lanky little boy with dark hair play-wrestling with my brother on the side lines in the grass. And thats how our story began – we spent our whole entire childhood visiting the same athletic fields, restaurants, banks, and grocery stores but always just barely missing one another. Fast forward to October of 2007, Will was a freshman in college at SPSU and came back to his Alma Mater for the homecoming football game. I had just transfered to Landmark and his best friend Sam “introduced” us. In the words of Will, he was smitten. Shortly thereafter he sent me this little snippet in a love note, “I don’t know your favorite color or favorite ice cream flavor or favorite song, but I do know that those ocean blue eyes dance when you smile at me and that is enough to completely capture me.” SWOOONNNN.

I wasn’t even allowed to date though and knew my parents would never go for me dating a boy in college. So, we kept in touch every once in a while, but the flame burned out. Fast forward to to March of 2011, I was going with my brother to a college orientation at ABAC in Tifton. I mistakenly thought this was the school Will now attended and sent him a text telling him I was visiting his school that day. He responded and said ” You’re coming to SPSU?” Whoops, I didn’t even know where he went to college. (Face to palm!) We shared a laugh and a good conversation and I decided to look him up on Facebook afterwards. I couldn’t help but noticing how handsome he was. Handsome + sweet + he loves the Lord? Score. I told my mom that night I was going to get that boy to take me on a date ;)

Anyone who knows me knows that I’m not a fan of ladies pursuing men, I genuinely believe that this is the man’s responsibility. Well, I here I was pining for this man and reminiscing over how sweet he had been in days past, but I had no way of “being pursued” by him. He was clueless that I was interested, we never saw each other. He lived an hour and a half away, and to make matters worse when he had liked me years ago I just brushed it off and quit talking to him. I obviously had nothing going for me here. So what did I do? I kinda broke my rule and decided I would text him once a week and if he was interested and it was meant to be he would get the hint…my gosh that took forever! This one text a week went on for a solid month. I would text him, we would have these awesome conversations, he would be so sweet & fun and then…crickets. I wouldn’t hear from him until the following week! Finally after four weeks of this I was about to say, ” Oh well!” on the whole idea when Will asked me if I would like to spend a Saturday with him! YAY! Finally!

The following week he came and picked me up and I hopped up in his truck and we rode country roads and went fishing at Lake Raymond. The whole day was just fun and easy. I never was nervous or worried what he thought. It was just easy like two old friends just having the best day. That is until he suggested we watch the sunset from the bed of his truck while we slow danced and he sang to me. DOUBLE SWOON. My heart was totally gone. I came home that night and told my mom that I was going to marry that boy, I was sure of it. From that night on we have been pretty much inseparable. There have been ups and downs and we have faced many trials, but through it all we have grown closer and our love for one another has grown deeper. I couldn’t ask for a more kind, caring, loving or Godly example to lead me. Isn’t it so amazing how God works things out if we just trust in His Sovereign plan!

As wedding photographers we see how easily couples can become consumed in the wedding planning process and as a bride I knew I didn’t want all that that encompassed. We talked about eloping in the mountains, but after we bought our new home, Simply Sarah Farms, we knew it was the perfect place for a small intimate wedding. Will proposed and we planned the whole affair in exactly 8 weeks. My vision for the wedding was simple elegance. Our farm has a cabin in the woods so I wanted to play off of the natural elements that was offered there and lots of elegant organic touches.

For starters, I had this picture in my head of all 100 of our guests eating off of one big long farm table under the trees. So off to work my dad and his friends went making 12 ten foot long wooden farm tables. Our amazing florist, Lindsay Coletta decorated these tables with greenery garland that she foraged the morning of the wedding, pomegranates, figs, and then she added in pops of bold red and white floral buds. These florals paired with tall taper candles on bronze candlesticks and pillar candles made for a table scape prettier than I ever imagined.

The second thing I knew I wanted but was a little difficult to make happen was getting married in the river. Since we bought the farm we spend nearly every weekend out on the river kayaking, tubing and fishing. Everyone thought I was crazy when they heard my plan but I knew we could make it happen. We started going down to the river weeks ahead of time and making a flat path for guest to stand and walk, changing the course of water up stream, and cleaning up tree limbs and debris. My talented dad handmade a beautiful arbor for us to get married under and we used ferns as aisle markers down into the shallow banks. We used a canoe for the getaway from the ceremony. It was perfect! I am so pleased with how everything turned out and so very thankful for all of our friends, family, and amazing team of vendors who made our day a possible!

Photography: Laura Gordon Photography | Event Design: The Bride | Floral Design: Lindsay Coletta | Wedding Dress: Grace Loves Lace | Ceremony Venue: Flint River- Thomaston, Georgia | Reception Venue: Private Residence | Bride's Shoes: Hunter Boots | Bride's Shoes: Dillard's | Hair & Makeup: Jennifer C Nieman | Groom's Attire: Jos. A. Bank | Car Rental: Blue Eyed Yonder | Reception Dress: JS Collections

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

With the holidays just behind us, and engagement season in full force, there are lots of sparkly new rings upon fingers! Now that you and your honey have decided on forever, the wedding planning can begin. First up? A gorgeous venue. Lucky for you, I’ve got just the place — the historic Jekyll Island Club Hotel.

This incredible venue located on Jekyll Island, Georgia, is as gorgeous as they come. Offering couples a huge variety of settings where they can tie the knot — garden, beachfront, ballroom, cottage lawn + chapel to name a few — the breathtaking grounds of the Jekyll Island Club Hotel will have you and your guests head-over-heels. To help you navigate the planning process, the hotel has a top-notch sales + catering department that will walk you through everything from package options, room blocks, booking vendors, day-of coordination and so much more.

I don’t know about you all, but I’m seriously smitten with this stunning locale. It’s not too late to book your 2015 big day at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel — there are even a handful of discounted weekends available! To learn more about the venue and to get started planning, call 912.635.5170, email sales{at}jekyllclub.com or head over to their website. Happy planning, my dears!

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Cozy Winter Feast Inspiration

Melissa Schollaert has captured pure winter loveliness. Tailor & Table Design Studio crafted an elegant feast complete with cocktails while the channeling the romance of an English countryside whilst embracing the calming quiet of a Georgian winter. A dreamy Bel Fiore Bridal gown, richly hued florals, and an intimate fireside celebration have left me embracing the cooler months ahead… and you can see it all right here.

From Melissa Schollaert Photography… Our storyline is based on a wedding in the English Countryside at an old, abandoned manor. The look of it is very masculine, dark, moody and winter-focused, and is set at Barnsley Gardens in Georgia, a decaying renaissance home built in the 1840s. We envision a lively, turn of the century affair with an entire weekend of events ranging from pheasant hunts for the gentlemen to afternoon tea for the ladies. We also incorporated a traditional wintertime, English Cocktail called Wassail, which was drank on the Epiphany celebration on January 6th. The history of wassail is that groups would go out into the apple orchards on the feast of the Epiphany and sing songs to the trees in order to promote an abundant apple harvest the next year. We had an entire cocktail station with mulled cider, bourbon, apples and all of the spices necessary to make the beverage. We also had a traditional English feast of abundance with candied fruit, roasted vegetables and a whole chicken roasted over a fire created by the chef at Barnsley. Our models donned winter attire provided by London Trading Company in Atlanta – complete with authentic English hunting gear for the groom, as well as a shawl/cape and accessories for the bride in addition to her traditional wedding gown. We even included an authentic hunting hound to the shoot as well.

Photography: Melissa Schollaert Photography | Event Design: Tailor & Table Design Studio | Catering: Barnsley Gardens Resort | Makeup Artist: Andrea Carter Artistry | Venue: Barnsley Gardens Resort | China Rental: Vintage English Teacup | Coordination & Planning: Kristen Scott | Decor: Tailor & Table Design Studio | Gowns: Bel Fiore Bridal | Hairstylist: Robn Johnsen | Male Attire: London Trading Company | Rentals: Miss Milly's

Rainy North Georgia Mountain Wedding

A sprinkling sky was made all the more romantic with this elegant Kellum Valley Farm affair. Set amongst the Georgian Mountains, blush Flower Buds blooms perfectly complemented the glamorous post-wedding chandelier filled tent. Adam Nash was behind the lens and captured the kind of day we love to admire over here.

From The Bride…Everyone always asked Jamie and I the same question about our venue, “Do you two have family up there?” And the answer was always the same, “No, but have you seen it up there!? It’s beautiful!” We knew we wanted an outdoor ceremony, and we knew we wanted natural beauty within driving distance of most of our family. That left an obvious choice – the mountains. The Ruins at Kellum Valley Farm was the first and only venue we visited; I think we both knew that was “it” before we even stepped out of the car. The ruins exude such rustic elegance, and it was a perfect fit for our dream wedding. We won the wedding lottery in choosing The Ruins at Kellum Valley Farm, as they introduced us to a dream team of suggested vendors, all of whom we used, and all of whom went above and beyond our wildest dreams.

We originally chose to have the ceremony in front of this beautiful old tree on the side of the house that by April, would be adorned with gorgeous purple blooms. The reception was to be held in the ruins strung with twinkle lights and adorned with tons of romantic candles. As luck would have it, the cool spring held off the blooms, and it rained. So, our outdoor wedding resorted to plan B. We were fortunate enough to have a dry ceremony, still under our tree, and the overcast weather made for fantastic pictures. We even had umbrellas waiting in the wings just in case the rain moved in. We were determined to carry on the ceremony under the tree; no rain was going to stop us! The aisle was marked with beautiful flower arrangements in mason jars hung on delicate shepherds hooks. The same arrangements hung in the tree in mason jars adorned with ribbons that blew in the coming winds. It was incredible.

The reception was moved under a tent that was draped in lights, chandeliers, and beautiful flowers. It truly was a dream. I gave very little direction to any of the vendors, save for “rustic elegance and timeless romance with pink and peach hues.” Truthfully, that was all I really had of a vision, it really was created for me that day. There were twinkle lights with intertwining tulle that were strung around the perimeter of the tent. Fresh flowers in pinks, peaches, and lavenders spilled over all the surfaces to create the most romantic setting I’ve ever seen. Whitewashed woods, rustic antiques and intricate details kept the ambiance cozy and personal. Dinner was served in the adjoining barn, where the gift table, guest book and favors were set up as well.

Jamie and I enjoyed our last dance to “Come Away with Me” by Norah Jones before running through a tunnel of our favorite people cheering with sparklers (a long held dream of mine) to a getaway car we had no idea was there. My grandparents surprised us with a car to take us to the Atlanta airport to fly off to Jamaica. While the cooler temperatures and rain threw our initial plan for quite the loop, the day turned out to be the most picturesque fairy tale. All that mattered in the end is that I married my best friend in the company of our favorite people.

Photography: Adam Nash | Floral Design: Flower Buds | Wedding Gown: JLM Couture, Inc | Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas | DJ: Party Animator DJ | Venue: The Ruins At Kellum Valley Farm

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Weddings at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort

Fact: LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort is the type of place that just makes your soul happy.  The perfect combo of luxury and elegance, it’s glistening beaches meets amazing accommodations meets that sweet Florida sun.  In other words?  It’s the ideal setting for your wedding, vow renewal or honeymoon.

Located against a stunning Gulf of Mexico backdrop, LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort knows a thing or two about throwing a perfect party.  From that intimate vow renewal to that 200-person affair, LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort has the venue just right for you and yours.  Think grand ballrooms, poolside spaces and sandy beaches that will wow you and your guests with their awesomeness.  Not to mention an amazing team of wedding professionals that will make sure each and every moment of your day is simply flawless.  Add all of that to the peace and tranquility of a Naples vacation and it’s the wedding of your dreams… and then some.

Courtyards & Cobblestones 2015

Fact: if you’re tying the knot in Wilmington, NC, I am sooo jealous.  And not just because Wilmington happens to be a place known for magical + oh-so beautiful I do’s.  Nope, it’s also the home to the fab Courtyards & Cobblestones event, a walking tour through several downtown wedding venues.  It’s a glamour-filled night of good food, yummy drinks, amazing vendors and a whole lot of inspiration.

At Courtyards & Cobblestones, you can leisurely stroll through all that downtown has to offer, making it that much easier to select a wedding venue.  And your self-guided tour doesn’t just include fabulous locales, you’ll also be meeting some of the finest wedding professionals Wilmington has to offer, from awesome photogs to cupcake masters to floral pros that will take your breath away.  Soak in each space that has been meticulously crafted by an amazing Wilmington designer, and munch on the yummy samplings from some seriously talented caterers.  Oh, and did I mention the live entertainment?  Sooo awesome.  Call it date night or even a girl’s night out, but seriously don’t forget to mark your calendar for January 17th, 2015 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm.  Tickets are $18 online or $25 at the door.

For day to day updates go to the Courtyards & Cobblestones Facebook page… and don’t forget to check out the amazing film below!

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Photography: Susie Linquist Photography | Photography: Theo Milo Photography | Photography: KMI Photography | Photography: Scott Piner Photography | Photography: Millie Holloman Photography | Videography: Life Stage Films | Videography: Seven Season Films | Videography: Light Cannon Films | Videography: Philip James Films | Videography: Green Hope Productions | Videography: Blueberry Creative | Event Design: Kickstand Events | Event Design: Fiore Fine Flowers | Event Design: Design Perfection | Event Design: Lily Belles Event Design | Event Design: Social Butterfly Events | Event Design: Salt Harbor Designs | Floral Design: Eco Chic Blossoms | Floral Design: Beautiful Flowers By June | Cake: One Belle Bakery | Cake: Alison's Cakery | Cake: Imaginary Cakes | Cupcakes: Coastal Cupcakes | Reception Venue: The Loft On Front | Catering: 128 South | Catering: The Beam Room | Catering: The Balcony on Dock | Catering: Pine Valley Market | Catering: City Club At De Rosset | Catering: Culinary Creations | Invitations & Calligraphy: Southern Bee Designs | Lighting: High Performance Lighting | DJ: Active DJ Entertainment | Transportation: Wilmington Trolley Company | Transportation: Event Shuttle Service | Transportation: The British Taxi | Beverages: Wilmington Wine | Ceremony & Reception Venue: City Club At De Rosset | Ceremony & Reception Venue: 128 South | Ceremony & Reception Venue: Atrium by Ligon Flynn | Ceremony & Reception Venue: Bakery 105 | Ceremony & Reception Venue: Brooklyn Arts Center At St. Andrew's | Ceremony & Reception Venue: The Balcony on Dock | Health & Beauty: ADG Fashion Styling | Health & Beauty: Makeupforyourday | Health & Beauty: Salon Fringe Wilmington | Health & Beauty: GoGirl Fitness | Ice Sculpture: Ice Sensations | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Live Music: The MidAtlantic | Live Music: Guitarist Trey Hamlin | Live Music: Possum Creek Bluegrass Band | Live Music: Maura Kropke | Live Music: Benny Hill Music | Photo & Video Booth: The Soapbox Photo & Video Booth | Photo Booth: Theo Milo Photography | Photo Booth: Millie Holloman Photography | Rentals: Eventful Furniture | Rentals: Party Suppliers & Rentals | Rentals: CE Rentals | Specialty Gifts: Reeds | Specialty Gifts: Pressed Cotton | Specialty Rentals: Harborside Event Rentals | Specialty Rentals: DP Etc. | Specialty Rentals: Pomp Event Furnishings | Sweets: Nye's Ice Cream Sandwiches | Wedding Event: Courtyards & Cobblestones | Wedding Publications: Weddings Unveiled Magazine | Wedding Publications: Southern Weddings Magazine | Wedding Publications: Southern Bride & Groom | Wedding Publications: The Knot | Wedding Publications: SALT Magazine

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Sparkly New Year’s Eve Wedding Inspiration

I’m a big fan of New Year’s Eve, from the sequins to the champagne. It is the perfect party setup. Add in some adorable newlyweds and it’s only gets better. This photo shoot by Marianne Lucille, designed by JLeslie Wedding Decor and styled by Emily Fogarty, put me in the perfect mood to await the ball’s drop tonight and these pics of sparkly cocktails and cupcakes is where I’ll be as we say adios to 2014.

From Jenna Coleman of JLeslie Wedding Décor… When starting a new business in your hometown, it’s always comforting and exciting to work with people you know. For this shoot, we were able to work with a location vendor that Marianne and I both went to high school with. I had worked with Savannah Special Events by Ranco on a previous styled shoot and used them as a vendor at my own wedding so we were able to contact them and involve them in this project as well. Smallcakes Cupcakery provided our cupcakes for the shoot. This bakery just opened in a local area of town and I thought it would be a great idea to help get their name out there! We wanted a classic design style with a hint of glam and sparkle, after all this is a New Years wedding! I made the invitations and paper products for this shoot but was also able to incorporate some DIY elements that make the theme pop! I wrapped the confetti poppers in coordinating black and white scrapbook paper. We glammed up some champagne glasses by dipping the rim in chocolate and adding some sprinkles and pop rocks! I think creating a theme for any wedding or event is a great way to make a memorable impact while staying within your budget; this shoot is a great example!

From Marianne of Marianne Lucille Photography… I really wanted to capture the class of this event. The black, white and gold color palette bring a great layer of sophistication. These colors were the sounding board for the design of this New Years Eve shoot. Jenna Coleman of JLeslie Wedding Decor and I worked on the design elements for the shoot and knew we wanted to add a bit of sparkle to the decor. This little bit of glitter brought a touch of fun and whimsy to it all.

The dress is from Ivory and Beau and definitely a stunner. I love to see brides reach out of the box for their wedding dress color and choose something that isn’t white or a shade of white. The sequins on this dress brought in some bling and made for another fun element to the shoot. All the glitter and glam made this shoot fun to put together and photograph!

Photography: Marianne Lucille Photography | Styling: Emily Fogarty | Floral Design: Fresh Market | Wedding Dress: Ivory and Beau | Wedding Dress: Sarah Seven | Cake: Small Cakes | Invitations: J Leslie Wedding Decor | Ceremony Venue: Whitefield Chapel | Reception Venue: Cohen's Retreat | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Trunk 13 | Balloons: Party City | Chalkboards: J Leslie Wedding Decor | Rentals: Ranco Event Rentals

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Sparkly New Year’s Eve Party

It’s almost time to say our goodbyes to 2014; out with the old, in with the new! And as we prep for the beginning of the new year, there’s no better way than with gold sparkles and mini champagne bottles. Gray Harper Event Maker created the perfect scene to ring in 2015, and with all of Izzy Hudgins‘ shimmering snaps, I’m gathering all of my ideas from this gallery to toast to the new year in style.

From Izzy Hudgins Photography… What’s a New Year’s Eve party without a little sparkle?! Gray Harper Event Maker shows how to throw a playful porch party with lots of holiday glitz. Spring for sequin tablecloths but forage in your natural surroundings for decor – here, we spray painted magnolia blooms gold. Create fun personalized gifts for your guests that double as escort cards by labeling champagne bottles with their names. Using playful patterns like stripes and polka dots keeps your decor modern yet whimsical. And be sure to have a well stocked bar and yummy hors d’oeuvres to keep the party going – we love colorful macarons and fresh asiago popcorn!

Photography: Izzy Hudgins Photography | Event Design: Gray Harper Event Maker | Reception Venue: Brockington Hall | Catering: Thrive Catering | Hair & Makeup: Dollface By Jules | Bowtie: French Knot Studios | Macarons: Maison De Macarons | Paper Goods: Lavender & Honey Designs | Rentals: Ranco Event Rentals

Organic Black Tie Bridal Inspiration

Dreamy doesn’t even begin to describe these images from Austin Gros. Inspired by timeless affairs, Jessica Sloane styled a fairytale vision filled with elegant Chaviano Couture gowns and organic blooms by Amy Osaba. It’s style perfection and seamless storytelling all the way. See it all here!

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From Austin Gros…“Happiness is spiritual, born of Truth and Love. It is unselfish; therefore it cannot exist alone, but requires all mankind to share it.” ­ Mary Baker Eddy

A classic bride knows her wedding dress will represent her past, her present and her future. Her dress fuels her imagination when she envisions an elegant, timeless and intimate affair.

She values her heritage and tradition. Carrying her grandmother’s silver to share with her cherished friends and family who joined her on the special day. The patinated silver and pale mint blue balance the old with the new. The flowers cascade over the table, just as the fabric of her dress moves in the breeze. She shares her innocence and joy during this sacred time.

Photography: Austin Gros | Styling And Design: Jessica Sloane Event Styling & Design | Flowers: Amy Osaba | Venue: Private Residence | Dresses: Chaviano Couture | Hair And Beauty: Amanda Gros | Rentals: Blue Eyed Yonder

Rustic Spring Wedding at The Greyfield Inn

Trees drenched in Spanish moss, wild horses roaming, and one of the most beautiful bridal bouquets I’ve ever set my eyes upon. This Southern springtime celebration hit all the right notes and more. Virgil Bunao captured every picture perfect moment and after going through this gallery I’m pretty sure I too caught a bit of this couple’s infectious joy.

From Virgil Bunao… I love these two! Christian is just a guy you want to be around and kick back with, and Lytle is a sweet girl with a vivacious personality. I arrived on Cumberland Island to shoot their entire wedding weekend, and there was never a dull moment with these two. Together with their families, it was a weekend packed with fun and non-stop excitement. Their laid-back take on life was definitely infused throughout their wedding. Don’t be fooled by the tuxedos and the stunning formality; this affair was chock-full of family-centric themes and the idea to enjoy each beautiful experience to the fullest. This certainly complemented their classically-rustic wedding style and The Greyfield Inn was an excellent backdrop for the neutral grays, whites, and greens. They paired these shades with an excellent shade of natural woods and that tied everything together. As for the landscape photographs, centuries-old oak trees and sprawling, deep South land was all you could see for miles. To say that I had fun snapping away is an understatement.

Aside from taking pictures of the oaks dripping with Spanish moss and the wild horses running freely on the island, I had the most enjoyment taking pictures of the Cannons and the Fobers. They were all about the love that day, the joining of their families; and everyone’s smiles were infectious. Most of all, the bride’s and the groom’s! Please enjoy the photos and catch on to the smiling bug that bit Lytle and Christian on their perfect spring wedding day.

Photography: Virgil Bunao Photography | Videography: Cinema Couture | Event Planning: Coastal Engagements by Lisa Presnell | Floral Design: Island Flower and Garden | Wedding Dress: Judd Waddell | Cake: Karen Ray - Bliss Cupcakery | Ceremony Venue: The Greyfield Inn | Reception Venue: The Greyfield Inn | Catering: The Greyfield Inn | Hair & Makeup: CorMieR | Groom's Attire: Jos A Bank | Groomsmen's Attire: Jos. A. Bank | Ceremony Music: Terry Thrift - Resort Talent | Bowties: Brackish Bowties | Bridal Boutique: Bridals By Lori | Reception Music: Atlanta Showstoppers

Romantic Sea Island, Georgia Wedding

Truly breathtaking, Ashley Seawell captured every detail of this chic Sea Island affair. Starting with the Bride’s Christian Louboutin heels, to her open-back Monique Lhuillier gown, every detail is what bridal dreams are made of. A perfectly planned day by Easton Events filled with The Vine Garden Market blooms is all the more gorgeous (and delicious) with that Sea Island cake. More right here!

From Easton EventsAfter seeing a Sea Island ad in a magazine, Whitney’s mother planned the first family vacation to Sea Island when Whitney was a little girl. The family fell in love with Sea Island and returned year after year. One of Whitney’s favorite memories is swinging with her father on the tree swing in the Cloister garden. Naturally, Sea Island was a sentimental wedding location for Whitney and Trey.

Whitney and Trey were a dream couple to work with! Their vision was clear and their relationship was rock solid. Together we created an environment that married eclectic elegance with the traditional glamour of Sea Island. We intentionally incorporated some subtle masculine elements like farm tables, zinc top tables, and neutral tones with the feminine romance of full-bloomed summer florals and tons of candle light.

Celebrating friends and family was at the heart of their wedding, and because of that, we decided to serve a wonderful all-embracing family-style dinner. Guests were welcomed to their seats with an abundant cheese and charcuterie board and later indulged in platters of local favorites. We embraced this farm to table element with our escort card display of the seasons best – cherries and peaches!

The tent design was intentionally neutral and breezy –creating a feeling of relaxed elegance. We dimmed the lights soft and low to create the perfect atmosphere for seaside dancing!

Photography: Ashley Seawell Photography | Event Design: Easton Events | Event Planning: Easton Events | Floral Design: The Vine Garden Market | Cake: Sea Island | Invitations: Sugar Paper Los Angeles | Ceremony Venue: Sea Island | Reception Venue: Sea Island | Bride's Shoes: Louboutin | Catering: Sea Island | Bridal Gown: Monique Lhuillier | Rentals: Sea Island

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