Georgia Weddings

When Morgan Gallo Events set out to showcase the lovely Ships Of The Sea venue, a modern take on Snow White was the first concept to mind. And with the help of awesome vendors like Kato Floral Designs, Munn Brothers and Rach Lea, she did just that. The results are a red and white love fest filled to the gills with unabashed whimsy and you can click right here for the full photo loot.

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From Morgan Gallo Events… Ships of the Sea contacted us to stage a photoshoot to help show off the various areas of their venue and how they can be utilized. We wanted to show off the orchard (which we feel is the feature piece of their property) and ensure that the leaves and trees were the staple of the shoot. We started envisioning that the main color for the flowers and decor items be white as to not compete with the various colors of the leaves. The idea of the bright red apple started to show up and the next thing you know, the theme transformed into the “Enchanted Forest/ a Modern Day Snow White” was born!

We accented the table with the red plates/glasses but kept the flowers neutral. Snow White wouldn’t be complete without a mirror…so i thought it would be neat to hang various mirrors over the reception table. For the ceremony, we mixed benches and some amazing clear back chairs for the seating and lined the aisle with groupings of lanterns filled with apples and candles and mocked the same decor but in a great bulk at the front where the couple stood. My favorite piece is the strung apples creating a canopy over the aisle! My second favorite detail, the base of the cake stand–which was ALL apples that sat on top of a mirror! 

Photography: Rach Lea Photography | Videography: Munn Brothers Films | Event Design: Morgan Gallo Events | Florist: Kato Floral Designs | Dress: Bleu Belle Bridal | Cake: KM Cake Designs | Makeup: Jessica Duthu | Hair: Maria Vaughn | Venue: Ships Of The Sea | Venue: Ships Of The Sea | Paper Products: Cake Designs | Rentals: Beachview Tent Rentals | Tie, Headpiece, Cake Topper: French Knot

How do you plan a wedding to your childhood best friend? Elegant. Fairytale. Timeless. At least that’s the approach this stunning Bride – who also happens to be a TODAY Show exec – took when she tied the knot with her lifelong pal turned NFL punter. The results? An “I do” fit for a power couple yet equally romantic as their story itself. Your Event Solution + Black Sheep Interiors made the magic happen, and Moreland Photography captured the goods. Happy swooning, loveies!

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I’m about to share with you a story for the books. It’s the kind of love story that you hear about in books, or magazine, or you know someone who knows a story like this. I introduce to you the story of Jacqui and Drew. Jacqui and Drew have been friends since childhood. Their families always knew they’d be perfect together, but Jacqui and Drew had to find that out for themselves. Distance kept them apart, but nothing could lessen their friendship. He played football for UGA, she went to Alabama. After college, Jacqui moved to New York for work. It was then that Drew realized how important their friendship was to him. So one day, he asked her on a date. A little while later, he flew up to New York, and proposed to the woman of his dreams. To no one’s surprise, Jacqui said yes! Let the dream wedding planning begin! Fast forward to March 1, 2014 and here are the picture from Jacqui and Drew’s incredibly beautiful day!

Jacqui approached us through her wedding planner/coordinator/family friend Shane Meder. She was obsessed with our website and could quote our pictures in order of the opening slideshow! Needless to say she was hooked! Unfortunately, Mike was already book for a wedding that day. Mike gave her several other photographer’s names, but she came back asking about our Associate Photographers Team! Jacqui was hooked! And so the detailed planning of the day continued.

Jacqui has been so excited about her wedding dress since she picked it out at her mother-in-law’s dress shop! After pictures with the bride and bridesmaids, we all piled onto a lovely trolley from Georgia Trolley Services to transport the bridal party from the Four Seasons to the Biltmore Hotel. Once there we finished up with bride before the groom arrive on the UGA trolley the GTS also provided. They even shuttled guests back and forth through the day and after the reception. Before guests arrived, one photographer photographed the exceptional details of the day, while the other two stayed with Jacqui. From the florals to the centerpieces to the rose colored lighting, Shane, his team, YES Events and the staff at the Biltmore Ballrooms transformed the historical venue. This was the first time any one has done a ceremony in the Georgian Ballroom, but I think it will be the first of many more. There’s nothing quite like setting a trend.

After Jacqui and Drew said I DO, it was time for more pictures while the incredibly invested staff of YES and Affairs to Remember flipped the Georgian Ballroom from the ceremony site to plated dinner area. Many toasts of wonderful stories were shared and all the guests enjoyed laughing and sharing time with the newlyweds. After a full plated meal everyone then made their way into the Imperial Ballroom for a night of dancing! Then Jacqui changed into her sexy and sassy exit dress before a fun confetti filled exit to their Rolls Royce rented for the evening!

Photography: Moreland Photography | Event Design: Your Event Solution | Event Planner: Black Sheep Interiors | Caterer: Affairs To Remember | Entertainment: EastCoast Entertainment | Transportation: The Trolley Guy | Wedding Venue: Georgian Ballroom | Desserts: Classic Cakes And Cheesecakes | Hanger: Etsy - RLHCreations | Invitation Designer: Paper Affair

As a blogger + business owner, I’m seriously smitten with The School of Styling workshop for creatives! Taking place at the Merrimon-Wynne House in Raleigh, North Carolina from August 4-6, 2014, this weekend-long experience will help deepen your knowledge of business and gain experience styling — no matter what your profession.

With a goal of teaching new and established wedding and event stylists, interior designers, photographers, bloggers, prop stylists, and business owners how to design and style a space, event, or photo shoot creatively, The School of Styling is not to be missed! Designed to be well-rounded, the workshop will have a three part curriculum (core sessions, intensive sessions and breakout sessions), featuring incredible speakers and intensives ranging from floral design to table top design!

Without a doubt, you’ll leave The School of Styling with a better understanding of your business + creative abilities as well as some amazing new relationships! Sounds pretty incredible, doesn’t it? Well there’s more!

The School of Styling is giving one lucky winner a few of their favorite styling essentials (candle, mug, print, pencils + monogrammed apron) as well as a 10% off the workshop ticket price! To enter, simply comment on this post by July 10 with why you’d love to attend The School of Styling workshop. A winner will be randomly chosen an announced on Friday, July 11. To register for The School of Styling, head over here. Hurry — registration ends July 14th! 

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There is nothing quite as exciting or fabulous as a surprise wedding. And this version crafted by Ashley Baber Weddings (in one month!) takes the ease of a fabulous dinner party and mixes in the best parts of a wedding – the love, the family, the ceremony – in such an intimate and unexpected way. The images by Harwell Photography speak volumes for just how magical this day must have been. See it all right here.

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From The Bride… Earl and I knew each other in passing in college, but did not travel in the same social or academic circles. In fact, I distinctly recall having the impression that he didn’t seem to like me very much at all. Life found us in various different cities and coasts, but with one very dear friend in common with whom I traded texts every morning. She mentioned him in passing from time to time and I thought nothing of it ­ well apart from believing he didn’t like me very much (he looked at me in a strange way!). And then one night I had a dream that Earl and I were together at an outdoor event and that he was my husband. Of course, I mentioned the dream in my morning text, as it seemed so completely bizarre. After all, I hadn’t seen or really thought about Earl in over 16 years, when we bumped into one another by chance on a crowded New York City street. Her response? “Weird. I’m on the phone with him right now. Will call in a few.” And with that, an idea germinated. She would later say that she didn’t know why she hadn’t thought of orchestrating the match sooner. It seems I misinterpreted the nature of those strange looks and after trading emails and telephone calls, he flew to Los Angeles for our first date. Before our second date, he told me he thought we should marry. Eight months later, we secretly married in a courthouse ceremony in Santa Barbara, California with my best friend and my father in attendance on what would have been my grandparents’ 70th wedding anniversary. Five days later, I moved to Atlanta to join Earl and begin our life together.

I’ve never been a wedding person, but having an actual wedding was important to Earl so we compromised, agreeing upon a short invitation list, a great dinner party and fabulous food and wine. As I began thinking through our wants and must­haves, it occurred to me that we might avoid some of the traditional wedding stressors, by planning a surprise wedding. Earl was game. We had settled on Quinones at Bacchanalia for our dinner venue and I had fallen in love with and ordered Monique Lhuillier’s Candy in blush prior to my move from Los Angeles. A friend connected me to the brilliant Tifany Wunschl of Gourmet Invitations who designed our invitations and related stationery. She is a master at drawing from you what you really want and integrating the competing tastes and styles of opinionated brides and grooms. We received countless compliments on our invitations, which matched the blush color of my dress and informed the color palette for the evening.

A dinner party/wedding for thirty should be an easy enough event to plan in a new city right? As it happens, not so much. A month before the event (yes, a month!) I engaged the unparalleled and unflappable Ashley Baber of Ashley Baber Weddings to coordinate our Engagement
Dinner Surprise Wedding. She connected me to the remainder of my dream team of creatives, notably the incomparable Scoobie West for hair and makeup, the inspired Jeremy Harwell, for photography, Eva Behrendt who expertly designed our tablescapes and candlelit altar and Ed Wilson who partnered with us to craft and deliver a personalized marriage ceremony, perfect for us.

On March 16, 2013, we gathered in the restaurant’s outdoor courtyard with our closest friends and family for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, enjoying the unexpectedly mild weather. At the appointed hour I slipped away to change into my wedding dress while our guests were welcomed into the dining room, then utterly transformed by Eva Behrendt’s team in mercury glass, candlelight, peonies and English roses. At each place setting, atop the menu card laid a program card, which began: Welcome to Tanya and Earl’s Engagement Dinner Surprise Wedding! (wording suggested by Tifany Wunschl – see! I told you she’s brilliant!). From our respective locations, Earl and I had the delicious thrill of listening to the emotional gasps of wonder and tears of joy as guests realized they were actually attending our wedding. The music began and we were married in candlelight in front of the people that we most loved amidst the sobs and raw emotion that surprise weddings evoke because no one is prepared – everyone is in the moment!

What followed was a glorious evening of exceptional food, wine, and first-rate yet unpretentious service by the acclaimed Quinones at Bacchanalia against the backdrop of a playlist of songs 
we loved. There were so many highlights but our favorite moment was when our guests spontaneously began singing along to Larry Graham’s, One in a Million together. As each person realized that the others were singing as well, the singing grew louder. It was a beautiful, impromptu and unifying moment during which Earl and I knew that, with the help of a great team, we had achieved what we had hoped for –­ a seamlessly executed evening that was
elegant and warm without the stuffiness and false formality we abhor. A year later, I am typing this narrative with one hand because I’m holding our newborn in my other arm. Some dreams do come true…

Photography: Harwell Photography | Event Planning: Ashley Baber Weddings | Invitations: Gourmet Invitations | Reception Venue: Quinones

There are few things I love more than the laid-back goodness of a backyard (or in this case, living room) wedding — especially when it’s this beautiful. You’re also basically guaranteeing success when you have the floral prowess of Fern Studio Floral on your side. Just take a look at Jade and Matthew Take Pictures’ stunning photos of the event, and you’ll see what I mean!

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From Jade and Matthew Take Pictures…Leigh and Kathryn wanted a backyard picnic feeling in their wedding. No fuss just good times! A little rain changed some of their plans but they went with the flow. They had fun pops of color throughout their wedding. Then everyone danced the night away with some good ole’ music!! The ceremony was at the Kathryn’s Parent’s House on beautiful Bluff Drive.

Photography: Jade + Matthew Take Pictures | Floral Design: Fern Studio | Reception Venue: Isle Of Hope Marina | Band: Damon And The Shitkickers

Infuse the lovely backdrop of Savannah with a sweet pink, light green and beige combo, and we’ve got ourselves a soiree full of pure romance. A soiree that the Bride & Groom lovingly planned from across the country with the help of Blue Mason Jar Studio. And the result is love, sweet love in the form of this beautiful gallery from Concept-A Photography!

From Blue Mason Jar Studio… Cassie Barnard & Paul Archer wedding will forever be close to my heart! Cassie contacted me from Portland, OR and was in need of a lot of help since they were so far away. Why Savannah?? In the early summer of 2011, Paul and Cassie took a trip to Savannah, GA where Cassie grew up, and Paul proposed (on one knee!) down on the riverfront. Cassie of course said yes and the wedding planning began! Cassie and I were in constant contact throughout the planning process even with the time difference. Their wedding turned out absolutely gorgeous and I remember Cassie saying something to the effect, I never imagined having a dream wedding, but this truly turned out to be a dream wedding!

Some interesting facts about their wedding… Total guest count: approx 66, the groom’s cake is the logo of Newcastle United Football team from Newcastle, England – Paul’s family is from the UK and this is one of his favorite teams, Paul’s mother sang at the ceremony in a beautiful operatic voice (during the rehearsal I was shocked by how beautiful her voice was since I didn’t expect this!), guests traveled to their wedding from near and far, Cassie and her friend worked together to design/print the escort cards and menus, Paul and Cassie designed their wedding programs and printed them their selves, and for their send off after the reception the guest waved American and British flags as Cassie and Paul were whisked away by a pedicab. I did not help with setting up the rehearsal dinner, but was a guest, and LOVED what their family did for the picnic style theme – sunflowers, mason jars, milk glass vases, southern cookin’, burlap, live music – so cute!

Photography: Concept-A Photography | Event Planning: Blue Mason Jar Studio | Floral Design: A to Zinnias | Wedding Dress: Lena Medoyeff | Cake: Two Cakes | Invitations: Dodeline Design | Ceremony Venue: Whitefield Chapel | Reception Venue: 10 Downing | Bride's Shoes: Ryan Seacrest Distinction | Bridesmaids Dresses: Ann Taylor Loft | Makeup: Beyond Beautiful By Heather | Hair: JW Salon | DJ: All About You Entertainment | Event Planning Assistant: Ivory and Beau

This wedding is just oozing with sophistication. Not only did they ace the wardrobe with the bride’s lace Allure gown and the groom’s finely tailored Vera Wang Tuxedo, but they even took pictures on a helipad. It doesn’t get more extravagant than that. There to capture all the classy splendor were our friends White Dress Media with the heartfelt video below. Enjoy!

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From White Dress Media…Jordan and Katie are our dream couple! They are madly in love with each other, and know how to gave a great time. Not only that, but their wedding film was super important to them, as they are both very creative people… he is a video hobbyist and she is a photographer.

Their wedding took place in downtown Atlanta, with the ceremony at Cathedral of Christ the King and reception at the Georgia Freight Room. In between the ceremony and reception, they took the time to go back to the W downtown (where she was getting ready) and take pictures on the helipad. The view was stunning, though it was an incredibly windy day!

Their reception was at an urban, yet trendy area of downtown. She surprised her guests during the first dance with a gospel choir and a choreographed dance. Everything Jordan and Katie did that day incorporated fun, love and laughter. She even “Iced” Jordan during the garter retrieval… I believe it’s a game where you have to chug the drink presented to you if you don’t already have a drink in your hand.

I can only hope to have more couples like this one. They are super classy and the life of the party.

Event Design: Legendary Events | Wedding Planner: We Tie The Knots | Florist: Legendary Events | Reception Venue: Flourish Atlanta | Reception Catering: Legendary Events | Wedding Cinematography: Jonathan and Kaye | Wedding Photographer: Rick Anna Photography

For those of you who’ve cringed at the thought of rain on your wedding day (believe me, I have!), I urge you to take a peek at this ever-so-sweet Walnut Hill Farms soiree from No Regrets Events and The Reason Photography. It’s proof that all the rain in the world won’t dampen the love and all the pretty. Especially with a spot-on team of vendors! Believe me darlings, it’s a gallery you’ll fall in love with.

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From No Regrets Events… Beautiful fall wedding in the north Georgia mountains, shades of pink and gold accents. Seated dinner for 350 guest To pull off a luxury wedding like this, all the vendors have to work as a team. And teamwork was the name of the game in this extraordinary November wedding at Walnut Hill Farms. Nancy from No Regrets Events ran the show with Goodwin Events providing the rentals (backed up by Settee Event Decor with some specialty pieces), Amy Osaba Event Design on the florals, and Sun in My Belly on the catering. With 350 guests, extra space was needed for the seated dinner but no one wanted those guests seated outside the barn to feel as though they were left out. We brought in a 40×70 clear top tent to meet these needs and designed a custom lighting package with our new Black Market Bistro Strings to perfectly match the existing lighting inside the barn. The result was a tent that looked more like an extension of the inside event space instead of a separate seating area.

The week of the wedding, it became apparent the weather was not going to be cooperative. Rain, temps, everything was converging to disrupt the big day. At the last minute we added a 40×80 ceremony tent to protect the guests in the case of rain. And what a great call it was! As you can see from the photos below, rain fell during much of the night. The walled clear top tent kept the guests dining outside nice and toasty. Overall it was an unbelievably beautiful affair. Amy Osaba and her team created some unbelievable decor that perfectly set off the groupings from Settee and our farm tables and crossback chairs. Nancy and her team kept things humming smoothly all night. We are blessed to be surrounded by such talented vendors and we can’t wait to work with each and every one of them again!

Photography: The Reason | Event Planning: No Regrets Events | Floral Design: Amy Osaba | Wedding Cake: Gabriel's Desserts | Invitations: Yes Ma'am | Catering: Sun In My Belly | Hair And Makeup: Brushworx Hair & Makeup | Barn: Walnut Hill Farms | Linens: I Do Linens | Reception Entertainment: The Adrian Duke Project | Rentals: Goodwin Events | Rentals: Settee Event Rentals

I’m pretty sure my move to the mid-Atlantic that brought out my inner monogram lover, so needless to say, I’m head-over-heels for everything by Vino Backyard Designs. Offering beautiful monogram return address stamps, wooden monograms, custom tags and even personalized leather journals, there’s not one thing in this online shop I don’t covet.

Vino Backyard Designs has items perfect as wedding + bridesmaid gifts. We’re loving the custom wooden tags as a creative way to ask your ladies to be part of your big day! Everything in the shop is beautifully made, with a focus on luxe materials and fabulous customer service. New to Vino Backyard Designs are the incredible, custom engraved leather journals — which just so happen to be at the top of my wish list.

Head over here to start shopping! And get this, Vino Backyard Designs is offering our SMP readers 15% off their purchase in the Etsy store! Simply enter code STYLEMEPRETTY2014 at checkout. Discount valid through December 30, 2014.

Here at SMP, we’re all about professing our love for Brideside, the amazing shop at-home online bridesmaid boutique! Offering you and your ladies an easy-to-use site and top-notch personal stylists, it’s easy to see just why we’re head over heels! Take a peek below at some of the stunning dresses we’re loving for summer and a fabulous real Brideside wedding!

To Enter: Simply enter here. The more you share, the more entries you get!

To Win: Readers must enter before June 17, 2014. Three lucky winners will be announced right here on Friday, June 20, 2014!

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Photo Credits: Diana Lupo Photography

Feast your eyes on one of the funnest elopements ever. It has everything: colorful florals from Garden on the Square, quirky details (like setting up a tepee in the park!), and pure, unfettered bliss. Looking at the pictures, you can tell Jade and Matthew Take Pictures had a great time sharing the day with this free-wheeling pair. For more melt-your-heart happiness, check out the full gallery here.

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From Jade and Matthew Photography…Ida + Ian are just two of the cutest cuties around!! They decided to elope so they could do everything they wanted and not worry about the stress of a big wedding. They just hung out all day long, laughed a whole lot, had about a million kisses, and even helped each other get dressed!! We went to Back in the Day Bakery for some out of this world delicious banana pudding!! That no one wanted to share!! Visited one of Savannah’s amazing antique stores, then had a tent party in Forsyth Park!! Then ended the day with some delicious yumminess at The Olde Pink House.

Photography: Jade + Matthew Take Pictures | Event Planning: Gray Harper Event Maker | Flowers: Garden On The Square | Ceremony Venue: The Gastonian | Reception: The Olde Pink House | Location: Back In The Day Bakery | Location: Alex Raskin

There’s a spark between some couples that’s impossible not to notice when you’re around them, or in this case, watching their wedding video. This video really is an inspiring ode to the love these two people share, so sit back and enjoy 3Ring Weddings handy work. The event came together with the help of B Moore Events, and there’s also a lovely little photo gallery with shots from Lacey For Scobey Photography.

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From 3Ring Weddings… Some couples shine, some radiate, and some, like Kofi and Candace, reflect.

When I say reflect I’m not just talking about a sort of introspective posture (although that is very much a part of Kofi and Candace’s life as well). Rather, I’m talking about their ability to reflect good on the other. Kofi and Candace are opposites in many ways. He’s more “A-Type” and she is more “free spirited”. The good that comes from these differences reflects on to the other and makes growth and mutual encouragement possible. Candace backed this up when she remarked; “He’s able to, in a loving and gentle way, focus me in on that potential and then we’re both amazed at the outcome.” Kofi likewise benefits from Candace’s differences. “She lifts me, she encourages me, she supports me and she stands by my side. That support and that encouragement is unbelievable.”

Their goodness certainly has helped each other, but their sense of good doesn’t come merely from the other, it comes as a reflection of their faith – their definition of goodness. Kofi shared; “I think it’s an awesome opportunity being together just to really reflect the glory of God in life all around us, in people’s lives all around us.”

When we release their story we’ll share more about the importance of agreeing on a source for goodness and reflecting that truth onto your spouse. For now we hope you enjoy their trailer. You’ll get to see snippets from their late April wedding that took place at The Foundry and was beautifully executed by Shaundra Moore of B. Moore Events. And I don’t want to forget the shout out to Scobey Photography for always being a pleasure to work with!

Photography: Scobey Photography | Videographer: 3Ring Weddings | Planner: B. Moore Events | Catering: Endive | Ceremony & Reception Venue: The Foundry At Puritan Mill

It never fails, when I see a wedding captured by Harwell Photography I find myself captivated. I absolutely adore how Jeremy captures moments and details, and when he is behind the lens of a wedding like this beauty planned by Elly B Events, magic happens. His images tell the story of this gorgeous couples’ stunning day, and you can see it all right here.

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In college, I read many of the writings of Kahlil Gibran and was captivated by his reflections on love, friendship and the soul. Much to my surprise, in the extra hour afforded by daylight savings during the final party of homecoming weekend, I met a man named for my favorite writer and knew instantly that he was special. It didn’t take us long to fall in love. Years later, Gibran surprised me with plane tickets to attend our homecoming at Morehouse and Spelman College. While at the football game, Gibran asked my dad for his blessing to marry me. When he proposed the next day, of course I said “Yes!”

Although Gibran and I had recently relocated to Philadelphia, we knew that we would marry in Atlanta where our love story began. We wanted to create an intimate, relaxed, and fun affair with classic, easy elegance. Everything started falling beautifully into place when we found our venue. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center is a garden oasis in the city with sprawling lawns and a stunning tudor mansion. Inspired by Callanwolde, we incorporated art throughout the wedding including custom silhouette illustrations for our stationery, live music during the ceremony and cocktail hour, a specially made family photo wall, and hand-cut silhouettes for our guests as favors.

We selected the ampitheater for the ceremony, and it was the perfect backdrop for our celebration. Guests arrived by trolley and the day was warm and bright. I wore a chantilly lace gown by Augusta Jones and a cathedral length veil. Gibran was handsome in a Paul Smith tuxedo. We invited our parents to participate in our union by reading a libation blessing, poem, prayer and charge before we jumped the broom. Guests then walked to the front terrace for the cocktail hour, and we joined our dog, Marvin, in the garden for photos. Marvin was dressed for the occasion and even tried to kiss the bride!

The reception was held in the indoor courtyard draped with layers of white sheers and crystals. The decor included a long floral garland, lush chair swags, bow-tied napkins, and birdcage centerpieces. After dinner and toasts, the lights were dimmed low and spirits were high as we danced with family and friends. Our wedding day passed quickly, but we are thankful for the moments we shared with those dearest to us, and for the memories made as we start our life together.

Photography: Harwell Photography | Event Planning: ellyB Events | Floral Design: Perfect Creations | Cake: For Goodness Cakes | Invitations: Paper Parfait | Ceremony Venue: Callanwolde Fine Arts Center | Rings: Craiger Drake Designs | Catering: Zest | Makeup: Kristen Harris | Hair: Michelle Allen Of Salon On The IX | Silhouette Artist: Edward Casey

A Southern classic is something that we fully embrace. The timeless details and charm never get old and if you throw a little y’all in there; well, we’re pretty much done for. But this day goes so beyond that. It’s a palette of all white with hints of metallic that can only be described as pure elegance. And it’s made even more so at the hands of so many great vendors. Artisans like Come + Together Events, By Tulip and Harwell Photography . See all of their handy-work and the rest of this stunning affair  right here.

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From the Bride… My fiance DJ and I love traveling, spending time with friends and family, college football, testing ATL’s best restaurants and having fun! He enjoys golf and carpentry, while I really like cooking, fashion, art history and yoga.

The inspiration for our wedding day is traditional, southern sophistication (i guess you could say…). My style tends to gravitate towards anything classic and timeless. I am obsessed with any and all black and white wedding photos.

Photography: Harwell Photography | Event Planning: Come + Together Events | Floral Design: By Tulip | Cake: Publix Bakery | Ceremony Venue: Cathedral Of Christ The King | Reception: Summerour Studio | Catering: Endive | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Party Reflections

To know me is to know one thing: I adore garden weddings.  Especially when that garden wedding is bathed in pink and gold hues, is planned to perfection by Circle Of Love Weddings and features gorgeous paper goods from Paper Dasies.  That, my friends, is the trifecta of wedding goodness and when you add in the always amazing Scobey Photography to capture every minute, well… awesome.  See it all here.

From the Bride… Thinking back to our wedding day, makes me smile ear to ear. After a fourteen month engagement, Robert and I got married on October 5, 2013 at the Atlanta Botanical Garden in Midtown, Atlanta. Robert and I grew up, met, and fell in love in Atlanta. We knew that we wanted to have our wedding in our home town, so our good friends and family would be close by our sides. Fall in Atlanta is absolutely beautiful, and after visiting the Atlanta Botanical Gardens we instantly feel in love with the big outdoor spaces, intimate gardens, and one of kind topiaries.

Our wedding would not have been a tenth of what it was without our outstanding wedding planner, Daria MacGregor, from Circle of Love Weddings. Daria held our hands without being too overbearing, and helped us pick the vendors that most reflected our wedding vision of an elegant intimate night surrounded by our family and close friends. Every bride needs a Daria. Our ceremony was in the Rose Garden, and Robert and I walked down the aisle to music by After Five String Quartet. My favorite part of the ceremony was the white archway covered with ivory garden roses, blush garden roses, blush spray roses, and blush pee gee hydrangea, which was created by Danny Wilson of The Savage Garden.

Walking into the reception, one would have never guessed that we left the rose garden because there were gorgeous flower arrangements everywhere. Thank you thank you Danny! It was beautiful! Escort cards with hanging bells, created by Lisa Hladish of Paper Daisies, lead guests to their assigned seat. We had a sit down dinner, with delicious food catered by Dennis Dean, and a scrumptious wedding cake for dessert, baked by For Goodness Cakes. We could not have asked for a better band that the Atlanta Show Stoppers. Having a groom that is passionate about music made the song selection process one of my most memorable parts of the wedding planning process, and our incredible band played everything we asked for. The Atlanta Showstoppers got our guests on their feet and dancing from the moment they started to play. They even got Robert and myself on stage a few times.

Every detail of our wedding was perfect, and we are able to relive the day through our dazzling photographs taken by Ashley and Graham of Scobey Photography, as well as our marvelous and fun wedding video taken by Chris Bartelski of The Reason I Love. Our wedding day and honeymoon to Italy was without a doubt the best two weeks of our lives, and Robert and I could not be more thankful for all the gracious support from our lovely family and friends.

Photography: Scobey Photography | Event Planning: Circle Of Love Weddings | Floral Design: The Savage Garden | Wedding Dress: Amsale | Cake: For Goodness Cakes | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Catering: Dennis Dean | Hair And Makeup: The Moore Agency | Band: Atlanta Showstoppers | Venue: Atlanta Botanical Gardens | Bridal Salon: Bridals By Lori | Paper Goods: Paper Daisies Stationery

This love story that started with a chance meeting, grew over letter by handwritten letter and culminated in a wedding built for two – it’s straight out of a movie. A crazy good, romantic as they come flick. And the resulting elopement with images by Brita Photography , equally as romantic. See the full day unfold in the gallery and for even more on this fairytale love, have a listen here.

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Kate met Brad during a layover. They had immediate chemistry, but she told him that if he wanted to continue growing what they had, he would have to do it…via handwritten letter. So he did. She got the first letter on Valentine’s Day, and over the course of a move (him to her city) and forty letters, what developed was a proposal, hidden in written code… ‘Since the day we first met I have been captivated by your beauty, personality, and your faith. I’ve been blessed to get to know you in such a fun and unique way. I’ve truly felt like the luckiest man because of your effort and desire to get to know me as well. I am honored that you would want to pursue each other while still holding true to yourself and your promise. There’s been something that I have thought about for a long time, Katherine Anne…” Then, he proposed!!

It gives me chills every time I read it! Words cannot even begin to describe how special Kate & Brad’s wedding day was to us. It was an incredible experience. Nick and I were the only guests and we wandered all around downtown Savannah and Tybee Island. It was a perfect day!

Photography: Brita Photography | Ceremony: Troup Square, Savannah | Hair & Makeup: Heather Ferguson | Bridal Shoes: Designer Shoe Warehouse | Radio Show: The Bert Show | Wedding Dress Boutique: Wedding Angels Bridal Boutique

With a sea of al fresco garden affairs flooding our inbox, it’s such a treat to come across a wedding held in the great indoors. This Atlanta gem is not only making a mark in the indoor arena but a true beauty with suspended florals by The Savage Garden, vintage design by Kate And Campbell Weddings and enough pretty images by Scobey Photography to last your perusing well into the afternoon.

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From the Bride… Every little girl dreams about their prince charming, their gorgeous wedding, their happily ever after… On October 20, my dream came true.

I woke that morning feeling so calm, at peace, and filled with overwhelming emotions of gratitude. I ordered some hot tea, wrote in my journal, did some soothing yoga, and prayed for a beautiful day.

Not only was I marrying a man that makes me whole, supports me, and loves me… but I was also marrying into a beautiful family. Since day 1, Chester’s family welcomed me with open arms and blessed our relationship immensely. This is truly the best gift God could ever give me. I was blessed with my amazing family and now I have another beautiful family to share holidays with, laugh with, build more memories with.

This whole year of wedding planning was filled with so many emotions…but mostly it was filled with joy and excitement! Because Chester was gone most of the year with the Airforce, my mom was there for every step of the way. We had the time of our lives looking through wedding magazines, pinning ideas on pinterest, trying on wedding gowns, and meeting with different vendors. When it came to choosing our vendors, I not only looked at their portfolio, I also asked myself, “Can I see myself being their friend?” We were blessed with the most wonderful vendors…and had the best time planning my fairy-tale wedding. They brought my vision to life..,.no, they went BEYOND of what I could have ever imagined!!!

The wedding planning was the easy part of the year… the part I had the most difficult time with was imagining myself in the center of attention, saying my vows with confidence and strength. The last thing I ever wanted was to have my voice stand in the way of expressing my love to my future husband. I prayed to God every night to give me strength, to give me full confidence in myself, to stand in front of all of our friends and family and say the vows that I wrote to the love of my life. The two months leading up to the big day, I was anxious, nervous, and filled with anxiety…not because I was doubtful about who I was marrying, but only because of my voice condition.

Finally, our wedding day was here…the moment of truth. Was my Dysphonia going to get in the way of being confident, calm, and happy? God blessed us with a gorgeous Fall sunny day. The whole day was filled with magic, serenity, and pure Love. When it came to walk down the aisle with my dad, I was surprisingly at peace…I was ready to marry Chester. That walk down the aisle was a moment I will never forget. I made sure to walk slowly…I looked around to see my family and friends smiling at me…soaking this moment…I looked up to my dad’s eyes and saw how proud he was of his little girl….then my eyes met Chester’s and saw his eyes light up, tears starting to roll down both my face and his face. My dad kissed my cheek and gave me to Chester. God gave me the strength I needed to say my vows to my love. I just wanted to press pause and really take in all the emotions that I was feeling.

Our wedding was simply… magical.

A day we will always cherish.

A day we will one day tell our kids all about.

“Love is a partnership of two unique people who bring out the very best in each other, and who know that even though they are wonderful as individuals, they are even better together.”

Photography: Scobey Photography | Cinematography: Ryan Rodinis | Event Planning: Kate And Campbell Weddings | Floral Design: The Savage Garden | Wedding Dress: Fabulous Frocks of Alexandria | Cake: Anne Kathleen Cakes | Catering: Endive | Hair And Makeup: Claudia Mejerle | DJ: Fonix Entertainment | Venue: Summerour Studio | Accomodations: St. Regis Deer Valley

I’m going to try my best to not sound stalkerish when I say I love this Bride in a major, total Project Runway superfan sort of way. Two time contestant, Kate Pankoke, is best known for her super chicbridal ensembles and her wedding is no exception. It’s a full on elegant Southern affair stuffed to the gills with the perfect vintage touches captured by Shannon Christopher. And the dress from Kate’s bridal line, Elaya Vaughn? Pretty sure Tim Gunn would give a standing ovation. See even more right here.

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Kate and Zach are high school sweethearts, so this wedding was a long time in the making. They are old souls who love to go antiquing; which is what led them to choose Savannah, GA as the location for their wedding. They wanted it to be very intimate yet still glamorous; with it’s spacious ballroom and dining area complete with stunning crystal chandeliers, Brockington Hall was the perfect venue for this wedding.

The theme of the wedding was Antique Elegance with a Rustic flare. They had mix and match vintage chairs for the ceremony and reception. Kate wanted the flowers to be voluminous but understated, like freshly picked wildflowers from the woods in front of her childhood home in South Florida. Kate and her bridesmaids ordered the flowers from Sam’s Club online and assembled the bouquets and centerpieces the night before the wedding with help from the amazing ladies at Ivory and Beau. The bouquets and centerpieces consisted of white baby’s breath and hydrangea with green fern accents.

The tables were marked with books that were named after the many different volumes of Kate and Zach’s life together. The happy couple was seated with their parents at “Volume VII. Happily Ever After”. The tables were draped in champagne satin tablecloths and accented with antique lace runners borrowed from Kate’s friends and family. The floral centerpieces were placed in large hurricane vases with a base of green moss and tan Manzanita branches. Each table was topped with several interesting antiques that the couple had found during one of their many adventures together.

Kate is a designer and has her own line, Elaya Vaughn Bridal, so she executed the ultimate bridal DIY and made her own gown. Fun Fact, she made it 7 days before the wedding! Kate’s gown is a stunning A-line tulle gown. It has a strapless, structured bodice with a champagne beaded lace overlay. Kate also made her veil that was just slightly longer than her train. Myra Callan from Twigs and Honey gave Kate the gorgeous baby’s breath crystal and pearl headpiece that topped off the look.

Though the guest list was limited, the bridal party was not! Kate and Zach each had 9 attendants on their side making the bridal party account for over 20% of the wedding! Kate’s side was a little unique, she didn’t understand why she should only be able to choose women to be her bridesmaids, so she had a combination of bridesmaids and brides-men. The bridesmaids wore beautiful lace LBDs from Anthropologie and the brides-men wore the same attire as the groomsmen, Black by Vera Wang tuxes. Kate and Zach surprised the ladies in their party with black crystal drop earrings and the men with black and white polka dot bow ties with their initials embroidered on them.

Zach is Jewish and Kate is Catholic, so they wanted to have a non-denominational ceremony. As a surprise to all of their guests, Zach’s brother, Josh, got ordained and performed the ceremony.
After the ceremony, the guests had a cocktail hour in the library and then greeted the couple for their first dance. The bride and groom danced to “Do You Remember” by Jack Johnson.
Guests feasted on some good old Southern cooking like collard greens, shrimp and grits, and Chicken Pulaski. The cake was a beautiful 3 tiered rustic buttercream creation by the talented team at Tier Luxury Cakes.

Kate and Zach chose to do a Tea Bar for their favors. They had vintage jars that their guests could scoop local Savannah tea into to take a part of the south with them.
After dancing the night away, guests retreated to the porch for a cool night breeze and a final glass of champagne as they bid their farewells and good wishes to the new Mr. and Mrs. Aberman….and they lived happily ever after.

Photographer: Shannon Christopher | Flowers: Sam's Club | Gown: Elaya Vaughn Bridal | Cake: Tier Luxury Cakes | Bride's Shoes: Adrienne Maloof For Charles Jourdan | Engagement Ring: A. Jaffe From Mayors | Wedding Bands: Jewelers Of Parkland | Bridesmaids Dresses: Anthropologie | Catering: Paul Kennedy Catering | DJ: First City Events | Tuxes: Men's Wearhouse | Backup Photographer: Alison Epps Photography | Bridesmaid Gifts: Topshop | Day Of Planner: Ivory and Beau | Flower Girl Dresses: SasAndAsa | Garter: Elaya Vaughn Bridal | Garter Belt: DKNY | Groom's Look: Men's Wearhouse | Groomsmen/Brides-men Gifts: The Tie Bar | Head Piece: Twigs & Honey | Historic Home: Brockington Hall | Hurricane Vases: Circle Glass | Linnens: Alex Karenin Estate Jewelry Store | Mother Of The Bride Dress: Nordstrom | Table Rental: In Any Event | Tea Favors: The Spice And Tea Exchange | Veil: Elaya Vaughn Bridal | Vintage Chair Rental: Everthine Vintage Rentals | Vintage Glass Jar Favors: Merchanstyle

True story – it snowed last week here in little ol’ New England. Snowed! So while this wintery wedding inspiration shoot may seem a bit off-beat for April, let me assure you those flurries haven’t left for good just yet. And let’s be honest, with Kate Incer, Gracie Blue and Laura Leslie on the job, cold weathered days never looked sooooo good. Have a peek at the gallery and Incer Studio’s film below!

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From Kate Incer…

The Inspiration:

This shoot drew inspiration from envisioning a timeless love story between a bride and a groom, perhaps from decades past. Theirs is a love that makes the world stand still if only for a moment. A wintry wedding, whose chilled air beckons you to hold one another tight, is filled with romance and ethereal elegance.

I wanted to include beautiful thoughtful details and highlight gilded accents that provided just the right touch of golden sparkle. Lovely lace, soft furs, shimmering linens, enduring stone, and twisting foliage offer the perfect balance of textures and tell a rich story. Our unplanned star of the shoot – the bevy of swirling snow flurries – created an idyllic frosty dreamland rarely encountered in the South. We embraced this powder white beauty with open arms.

The Location:

Could we have asked for anything more breathtaking? Foxhall Resort & Sporting Club served as the ultimate backdrop for this shoot in all its serene snowy splendor. Stunning views of snow-covered pastures and dramatic landscapes surrounded us. Tranquil woodlands, rolling hills and icy waters flowing through the white fields were spectacular sights to behold. This storybook setting was made all the more intimate with rustic wooden cabins and our candlelit stone fireplace.

Color Palette:

Our color palette included rich gold, blush pinks, deep black, and abundance of white courtesy of Mother Nature.

Attire:

The gorgeous gown from The Sentimentalist, curator of all things lovely, was an exquisite vision in lace by Sarah Seven. This dreamy number epitomized our inspiration of ethereal elegance with delicate lightness and glimmering metallic threads. A downy fur stole made it winter perfection. Our maids donned flirty black frocks; each look had their own signature style, but complimented one another flawlessly. An oversized face-framing bow for one maid and embroidered organza lace for the other. Our groom wore a dashing black tux and bowtie whose fine dots made him even more dapper. His black patent shoes finished off his polished look.

The Details:

I find details to be so important for storytelling and they do so much to bring personalized beauty to a scene. Charm from new and old pieces combined seamlessly. For our picturesque tablescape, blush sequin linens were the foundation for a spectacular array of English vintage china. Beautifully crafted menus, gold rimmed goblets + silver and gold flatware completed our place settings. A dramatic garland of greenery and florals with gold candlesticks amidst flurries of snow made it all oh so romantic and surreal.

Our paper goods suite was artfully designed for our couple and featured black, gold, and ivory.
With a soft spot for signage and making things by hand, I created a cork and paper piece that reads “Together is a beautiful place to be.” The glittery golden text, each piece hand-cut, was made all the more pretty by adding fresh flowers to the sign.Three heavenly cakes shimmered in gold with sweet blackberries, anemones, lisianthus, and wax flower. These golden beauties stood proudly on milky white cake stands in the pristine sugar-like snow.

The stone fireplace was enrobed with grand branches whose green leaves peaked out from the veil of snow. Holly’s masterful design made the foliage appear as if it had beautifully sprouted from the stone itself. Our intimate hearth had rows of white candles flickering atop wax-dripped bottles my husband and I lovingly fashioned. This scene could be translated as a sublime ceremony backdrop or the perfect spot for a celebratory toast and kiss by candlelight.

Vendors:

It was an absolute dream being surrounded by such talent! The beautiful work of all those involved was truly inspiring and I am so thankful for their amazing contributions.

Photography: Gracie Blue Photography | Photography: Laura Leslie Photography | Cinematography: Kate Incer | Floral Design: Holly Bryan Floral And Botanical Design | Cakes: Blooming Flour | Bridesmaids Dresses: Anthropologie | Makeup: Andrea Carter Artistry | Hair: Robn Johnsen | Wedding Venue: Foxhall Resort And Sporting Club | Bridal Gown: The Sentimentalist | Bridal Sash: The Sentimentalist | China: Vintage English Teacup | Groom’s Attire: The Modern Gent | Invitation Suite & Paper Goods: Moore Custom Creations | Linens: I Do Linens | Models: Jenna Lombardi, Andrew Lombardi, Hilary Huff, Brittany Keith | Styling, Event Design & Signage: Kate Incer | White Faux Fur Stole: Tulip Bridal

When you peel back all the pretty layers, right there at the center of a wedding is the promise of forever. An eternal love. And that, my loves, is truly what makes every wedding so beautiful. That heart, which is so prominent in this Savannah elopement from Jade and Matthew Take Pictures.

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Lisa + Brad decided to elope on a trip back home from visiting Florida with their family. They live in Canada. It was going to be a surprise to most of their family and friends. They wanted a low key event in a beautiful location to celebrate the two of them.

Photography: Jade + Matthew Take Pictures | Cermony: The Gastonian