Georgia Wedding Ideas and Inspiration - Style Me Pretty

This Couple’s Savannah Fête Will Charm You with Its Formal Meets Fun Festivities!

Bethany and Jesse’s wedding fête was filled with festivities, endearing touches, and a show-stealing furry ring bearer in Savannah, GA — the city that stole the couple’s hearts! The talents of Design Studio South and Gray Harper Florals’ muted arrangements with pops of burgundy accentuated the natural beauty of the intimate garden where the couple tied the knot. After the ceremony, a soulful, New Orleans-inspired parade kicked off a lively night at the Mansion on Forsyth Park complete with a bourbon and cigar bar. Relive the mesmerizing charm and romance of this formal yet fun celebration in the full gallery, vividly shot by Kati Rosado.

From Kati Rosado… Bethany and Jesse’s destination wedding highlighted the charm and romance of Savannah, Georgia – a location with both family ties and precious vacation memories, like visiting every Christmas, that quickly stole the hearts of this couple. The historic and natural beauty of this city set the most perfect backdrop for this couple to say “I do!”. Although the couple initially planned to have the ceremony at Forsyth Park, a quick pivot was made to a nearby private garden due to COVID restrictions.

The private garden screamed romance with its natural awe and wonder. To make sure we accentuated rather than transform this incredible space, we chose soft colors + patterns with subtle pops of bold burgundy flowers in the Gray Harper Florals’s arrangements to keep the party going. A bold floral design wasn’t all this couple had in mind for a party. This couple celebrated “tying the knot” with a second line band (@Equinoxorchestra), giving off a New Orleans vibe, that led a parade featuring the newlyweds through the streets of Savannah back to Forsyth Park for a final round of celebration at the Mansion on Forsyth Park. We wanted to carry the intimacy from the private garden inside and push the formal romantic vibe through to the reception space while continuing to keep the fun atmosphere which included a bourbon and cigar bar! To accomplish the romantic vibe at the reception, we canvassed the venue with subtle pink linens, plenty of lit candles, gold metals, and deep red/pink tones in the table arrangements.

We valued the intimacy in this COVID restricted, destination wedding and ensured that personal details of the couple were scattered throughout the ceremony. A handmade quilt honored the bride’s mother, and a pot of pansies signified their shared sorority. Every detail in this wedding shared more and more about this darling couple. The star of the show, however, was undoubtedly the couple’s fur baby who appeared dressed to the nines in his very own tux. This sweet pup carried several roles as both the inspiration of a specialty cocktail at the reception and as a featured ring bearer during the ceremony.

The romance and fun felt on the wedding day was enough to carry us to the moon! Despite the challenges faced planning a wedding during COVID, Bethany and Jesse made sure every touch remained intimate, personal, and full of vibrant celebration. We were thrilled to partner beside them to make sure the whole show went down without a hitch and fulfilled their wildest destination dreams!

A Modern Atlanta Wedding Complete With One Wow-Worthy Floral Chandelier

Ready to see a totally swoon-worthy wedding that’s classic yet modern to its core? Well, here it is! A dream team of vendors brought this perfect spring day to life, including expert planner Blush Pink Weddings and artistically talented floral designer Righteous Oaks Floral. When it comes to wedding style, there’s no denying this lovely couple wins the award for best dressed bride and groom. I mean, can we take a moment to appreciate that gorgeous dress?! There’s so much more pretty to see in the full gallery, authentically documented by the talented Eve Yarbrough!

From the photographer Eve Yarbrough… Kiersten and Will’s spring wedding day was the perfect balance of classic and modern, yet fun and whimsical. From the dramatic floral installation hanging above the reception space, to the bride’s blushing pink bouquet, and sleek black bridesmaids dresses to match the groom’s classic tux, no detail was overlooked by this stylish couple.

From the bride… Our vision for our wedding day was a chapel-like feel in the space of our warehouse venue, with a modern color palette of black and white, softened with pale neutrals and blush. My dad, with some help, made a 10 ft cross out of cedar that was delicately draped with flowers and greenery.

My favorite moment of our wedding day was definitely the first look, as it allowed allowed us to have some alone time, and decreased our nerves throughout the rest of the day. We got ready and shared our first look at my childhood home, which was a special and personal touch. Our florist exceeded our expectations, and utilized the high ceilings and exposed beams of our industrial style venue to design a stunning hanging floral chandelier, one of my favorite details of the day. My advice to brides-to-be would be to find a vendor team that understands your vision. Our vendors made all the difference, and it was worth the time to find a team that you trust!

The All White Floral Wall At This Georgia Wedding Wows

After traveling the world together, Janella and Khalid envisioned an old-world European-inspired wedding. They took to Georgia’s rolling foothills to throw a celebration at Chateau Elan that brought all their wedding dreams to life. Jade Lee Events planned a day filled with showstopping details to bring magic to every moment. From the all-white floral wall to the reception table that looks as if a European garden is growing around it, you’ll love the flowers by Jim White Designs. You can feel the love of the day in the artful imagery by The Willetts. Don’t miss a single breathtaking moment in the full gallery.

From The Willetts… Opting for a small celebration to include their closest family, high school sweethearts Janella and Khalid celebrated in the most old-world European way they could, at a French inspired Chateau outside of Atlanta.

Jade from Jade Lee Events brought the entire evening to life. After traveling the world together, both find the European feel of the Chateau together with the soft and elaborate florals tied their entire vision together.

It was so special for the couple to celebrate their love with all of their closest friends and family. The day will forever be cherished in their hearts and remembered by all.

How to Incorporate Old World Elegance at Your Micro Wedding

The historic elements of Georgia’s Swan House make for the ideal location for a dreamy wedding shoot, and that’s why these images are simply stunning. Using the European feel of the venue, Storybook Weddings & Events perfectly incorporated organic, wild details into their design. We’re head over heels for the earthy color palette and luscious floral installation by The Perfect Posey. From taper candles to rose gold vases and a classic tux, this day is the epitome of Old World elegance. Fill your heart with joy by viewing the full gallery of graceful images, captured by Sarah Sunstrom Photography.

From Sarah Sunstrom Photography… This stunning editorial was inspired by the ambiance of the Atlanta Historical Society iconic venue, Swan House. With its old world details and chateau centric feel, it makes for the ideal location for a romantic wedding celebration.

We wanted to use a very earthy palette with a luscious floral installation for the ceremony altar. With the use of all shades of taupe, cappuccino, blush, rust, wheat, soft whites and muted green hues, we had a bloom heavy asymmetric altar feature. The floral combination of a variety of lush garden roses and white oversized chrysanthemums were woven together into the large design using ruscus and dramatic pampas grass to make an impressive backdrop against the water fountains on the estate.

The bride wore two different Mistrelli House of Design gowns. The first featured an ostrich feather cape overlay that is the essence of breathtaking. Whimsical yet fierce this look was captured in gardens of the estate alongside a classic black tuxedo from The Knot Standard. The second Mistrelli look was a classic gown with incredible beading work along the neck and bust as well with a shimmer all throughout the dress. The final look was a Berta collection lace gown that hugged Natalie’s curves..

The cake was a showstopper with all of the elegant and intricate sugar work from the incredibly talented Elaine Drouin Cakes. The three tier cake featured a feather technique in blush and white tipped in gold. The top two tiers had beautiful floral textures reminiscent of the gowns worn.

For the tablescape at our reception table, we had an eclectic grouping of floral cups and taper candles. The floral elements were in rose gold vases with organic arrangements of ranunculus, garden roses, dalias, and ruscus. The place settings were french inspired with soft lines and complemented with hand calligraphed place settings and personalized menus from Sugared Fig Paperie.

This 1928 mansion in the heart of Buckhead is frozen in time and continues to be the inspiration of romance and aesthetic for black tie affairs including weddings today. Creating an emotion with the use of so many beautiful pieces coming together to create a moment in time that no one will forget is what a wedding and marriage is all about. The environment provides a sensory experience that no one can define but it is filled with joy and warmth that we are all still enjoying today.

Edited by Lauren Megerdichian and Carly Zumar

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A Fairy Tale Wedding at Swan House Complete With a 50-Foot Chiffon Draped Cabana

Just one look at this Atlanta wedding and you’ll know dreams really do come true. For Danielle & Yannic’s special day Wright & Co Events created a fairytale experience, from the ethereal flowers to the bridal party table set inside a 50-foot chiffon draped cabana. The romance in Tanya Menoni’s imagery will have you falling in love with love. For a closer look at all the magic of the day visit the full gallery.

From Wright & Co. Events… Our design team drew inspiration from the architectural details of the Atlanta History Center for Danielle & Yannic’s southern late summer wedding.

After the ceremony at Peachtree Road United Methodist Church guests were shuttled over to the Swan House to sip the signature “Dukes Raspberry Mojito (named after the couple’s dog) & enjoy hors d’oeuvres in the gardens. Our designs featured organic and loosely arranged flora, and an abundance of unique textural elements that highlighted the space.

We set the estate table for the bridal party under a cream-colored 50 ft chiffon draped cabana which served as the perfect focal point. One moment that will be a lasting memory for our team was the reception reveal for this special couple. Witnessing their happy tears as they saw their vision come together on the day of as they took in all the details was such a cherished moment as a designer.

This Is the Ultimate Spring 2021 Wedding Color Palette to Watch For

That first bloom, a sign of warmer days ahead, the feeling of a fresh start… Boy oh boyyy are we ready for all things Spring! Lucky for us, this gorgeous styled shoot from Jana Brown Design Co. at Swan House Mansion is satisfying our every craving. Have a look-see at the beautiful full gallery, captured by Love and Covenant, to get inspired for your Springtime fête!

From Love and Covenant… Spring inspiration glazed the beautiful Swan House’s historic architecture. Dainty yet elegant florals perfectly complimenting the “Casablanca Lily” gown.

An intimate setting perfectly catered to those nearest to the heart. The inspiration goes beyond beauty, it carries intention, passion and fine details.

The delicate floral pallet was made up of a range of unique varieties. Ending their nuptials, the bride and groom romantically posed by a classic antique automobile. This delicate, mesmerizing inspiration is for every at-ease spring bride.

Old World Charm Meets Modern Inspiration At The Swan House

Old meets new at the Atlanta landmark, The Swan House. The venue’s neutral tones made for the perfect complement to a colorful mid-summer inspiration shoot. Krissy Campbell worked tirelessly to create a design that mimicked the couple’s full of life and laughter personalities, and the result is a bright and vivid dream come true. You’ll fall head over heels in love with each inspired image by Bonphotage. Take a peek at the full gallery for all the picture-perfect details.

From Bonphotage… We were so excited to use brighter color in a meaningful and timeless way while still adhering to the organic, outdoor elements and Old World, timeless elegance of the property. We chose warmer tones in the paper that helped pull out the soft pinks and neutrals of the architecture and kept the floral within the warmer and deep tones to pop off the cooler velvet Mist Blue table linens.

We chose cleaner lines, neutral colors, and modern elements for the contemporary couple through the beautiful clean white china, gold flatware, candle stands, and clear textured glassware from TableMade. Each guests’ name was scripted on soft paper name cards tied with ribbon, and every menu was handpainted with a delicate script and design.

We hope the laughter, life, color, and romance of this day inspires other couples and professionals to continue to have confidence in the details of their story and personality. We love being able to showcase that these customized and fun details can still within the timeless and elevated spheres of design.

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The 5 Major Benefits of an Intimate Wedding You May Not Have Thought of Before

If you’re looking for reasons to be excited about a smaller guest count for your Big Day, look no further. Lucky for you, Amanda Olivia Photography is breaking down the 5 major benefits of an intimate wedding you most likely haven’t already thought of! From quality time with your VIPs, to quality details that make all the difference. Keep on scrolling to find out why intimate weddings are taking the wedding world by storm. Oh, and for some pretty inspiration along the way, head on over to the full gallery of today’s styled shoot, made beautiful by Whitewood Events and Amy Osaba Events.

From Amanda Olivia Photography… Having an intimate wedding is all about having a Small in Size but Rich in Story experience and I TRULY believe that. Having an intimate wedding comes with it’s own benefits that are worth mentioning and celebrating. There are important aspects to point out about an intimate wedding day that you may have not thought of before:

01 | Quality time with your favorite people

By inviting just your closest family and friends you can spend one-on-one quality time with the people you love. A wedding is all about being surrounded and supported by those you love most and there is no better way to do that than with an intimate guest count. By keeping your guest list small you can avoid all those awkward conversations with distant relatives or family colleagues that you really don’t want to have. By keeping it small you know exactly who you’re going to be spending time with on your wedding day

02 | Quality Details

This is a big one! When you have a smaller guest count you can make every. Single. Detail. Count! I don’t know about you – but I’m a details girl, and I want everything I have at my wedding day to contribute intentionally to my story and not just take up space.

So what can that look like?

Beautiful personalized paper goods:
– You can create custom invites to send to your family and friends getting them excited about the wedding experience you’re creating.
– Personalized “thank you” cards at every guests seat to let them know how special they are to you.
– Custom vow books that are as unique as your love story
– A beautiful welcome sign and seating chart that showcases the experience your guests are about to partake in.
– Keepsake ceremony programs that you can look back through years to come feeling the story you created on your wedding day.

Incredible florals everywhere you look:
Flowers are SUCH a beautiful and important part of the wedding experience. By having a smaller guest count you can really allow your floral budget to cover:

– The bouquets and boutonnières of your dreams for you and your bridal party to hold.
– Statement ceremony pieces that transform your guests into a new place.
– A curated floral design that brings your intimate garden dreams to live at the dinner table.

Your dream tablescape
So often we connect over meals with family and friends – and having a meal over an intentionally designed table….it doesn’t get better than that. By hosting an intimate wedding you can carefully pick out all your favorite elements to celebrate with:

– Linens
– Dinnerware
– Flatware
– Chargers
– Candles
– Vases/Vessels

Goodness…there is so much creativity that goes into the tablescape process that the possibilities are really endless! An intimate wedding ensures that you contribute intentionally to your story with only the highest quality details and thought.

03 |A heartfelt ceremony

Traditionally at large weddings the officiant and maybe one or two people speak, BUT at an intimate ceremony you can really create the experience you want. You can sink into the time you have with those present. You can relax knowing your most important guests are present and even allow them to share a few words and create a more inclusive ceremony experience.

04 | A more relaxed experience

By surrounding yourself with your closest people you can relax your shoulders and take a deep breath because THIS IS IT! These are your people. Since you have more time to chat with each guest and soak in your surroundings you can really enjoy the experience and not worry about missing anything or having to say hello to Aunt Judy before she takes off for the night. An intimate wedding ensures you focus on relationships and your story opposed to putting on a show. 05 |More time to create amazing portraits with your photographer

Selfishly this one is my favorite, but by having a smaller guest count you can create more breathing room in your timeline so we can get creative and fun with your bride and groom and family portraits. I’m ready to run with you in fields, do some dancing, hop on a boat across the lake, and get creative with the space you have to again tell your unique story. At the end of your wedding day you leave with your spouse, your memories, and your photographs. So let’s ensure your images match the beautiful story you want to tell.

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Where Opulence and Beauty Collide: A Wedding Editorial Inspired by the Pages of Vogue

To say this unique editorial took our breath away would be the understatement of the century. From the bride’s knockout Dana Harel gown complete with a cascading train and floral appliqué, to the untamed floral magic created by Jana Brown Design Co. in an ultra feminine color palette. To the bride who spends most of her spare time flipping through the pages of Vogue, this inspiration is perfect for you. Head on over to the full gallery of details, all captured by Lost Coast Photography!

From Janna Brown Design…“The Swan,” where opulence and wild beauty collide, in this ultra romantic editorial hosted by Janna Brown Design.

Inspired by the juxtaposition of fierceness and femininity found spilling out of the pages of Vogue, our editorial balanced delicate, wild blooms and ethereal fabrics with immense architecture, powerful posing, and the intensity between our couple and the lens.

Our bride donned an impressive gown by Dana Harel Design, with a cascading train and a sheer bustier, adorned with a plethora of delicate hand-sewn flower petals. She carried a bouquet composed of wild jasmine, elaeagnus, and garden roses, finished with trailing silk ribbon.

Our table details mimicked the bride and her bouquet: soft cream fabrics paired with untamed florals. Tara Spencer created vellum menus which sat atop each place setting, while the flowers nestled into a bed of cream fabrics…

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Pastels, Organic Blooms and a Dreamy Meadow: This Editorial Is for the Feminine Brides-to-Be

Blending couture details with a natural setting, Janna Brown Design Co. created garden-inspired wedding magic at Serenbe Farms. From the bride’s ethereal gown adorned in floral appliqué to organic arrangements in a soft, neutral palette – this shoot has so much pretty to go around. To get inspired by every last detail of today’s editorial, don’t forget to head on over to the full gallery, all taken by Lost Coast Photography!

From Janna Brown Design Co.… Inspired by the pastel tones and femininity of a garden-inspired floral linen, this editorial hosted by Janna Brown Design grew to exude an organic aura while intentionally blending couture details with a natural setting.

Serenbe Farms set the backdrop for our day, while the horses grazed in the distance, and the breeze rippled through the tall grass. Our bride boasted an impeccable dewy makeup look by Katie Gurley Artistry, that set her aglow, while donning an exquisite gown by Dana Harel Design.

Envisioning a tablescape in a wild scene of an overgrown meadow, we built layers of florals upon the linens, with thoughtfully curated paper goods by Plume Calligraphy, and floral arrangements in a perfectly paired palette, brimming with seasonal blooms. From delicate tendril sketches on the paper suite, to the floral appliqué on the bride’s cathedral veil, we aimed to paint each scene with a splash of floral detailing.

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Lost Coast Photography

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Natural Beauty Bridal Portraits That Are EVERYTHING!

Today we bring you an absolutely stunning shoot by Hannah Forsberg which showcases bridal portraits which have more meaning than you can imagine. For this beautiful bride, wearing her natural hair hadn’t happened for years after chemicals changed the way her hair grew. With a brave face, and a bouquet in hand by Shean Strong the bride twirled in her Tatyana Merenyuk dress at The Sentimentalist bridal shop….and boy, are we in love!

From Hannah Forsberg…These photos are near and dear to my heart because the meaning behind them is so deep. We photographed our sweet bride, Hannah at The Sentimentalist, a bridal shop in Atlanta, to photograph her bridal portraits. Hannah was styled by Icon Stylist and wore Tatyana Merenyuk from The Sentimentalist. Hannah’s bouquet was created by the amazing Shean Strong with makeup artistry by Margaret Snider.

Hannah’s story is so beautiful, and she wanted to showcase her natural beauty for her portraits. This was the first time in years in which Hannah wore her natural hair, and my goodness, isn’t she radiant? Hannah shared with us that prior to this photoshoot, she had worn wigs after chemicals had forever changed the way that her hair grew. It took so much bravery for Hannah to come to this day, and I feel grateful to be trusted to document Hannah in this way. I hope you love these photos as much as I do!

Cue the Happy Tears, This Is the Story of How Two Became Four

Today’s wedding is a very, very special one. It embodies everything a wedding and a marriage should truly be about – love, joy, and family. You’ll obsess over all the little details from their romantic summer day planned by Slauer Events & Design but you’ll happy cry when you see the handsome groom recite his vows to his blushing bride’s two children (which he adopted on their wedding day.) To grow your heart by two sizes in two seconds, head on over to the full gallery – all taken by Hannah Forsberg!

From Rachel, the Planner & Designer… This couple’s story began years after bride Scarlett first husband, the father of her two children, had passed away. When she met Caleb she knew he was not only a wonderful partner, but would also be an amazing father. On the day they eloped, Caleb adopted Scarlett’s children, making vows during the ceremony to them. Caleb and Scarlett became husband and wife, but even more importantly the four of them became a forever family. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house! Scarlett had envisioned a soft, romantic, and approachable design for their summer celebration.

She wore a blush Alexandra Grecco gown that was especially beautiful in front of their custom made arch backdrop. The paper goods were delicate and clean. The cocktails were handcrafted one by one. To balance the elegant outdoor affair with a more fun and casual element, they brought in their favorite brunch restaurant, Sun in My Belly, local to Atlanta, to cater a picnic lunch. It was a day of joy and togetherness – exactly what marriage and family should be about! The wedding was even more special because Hannah, the photographer, had been adopted from China as a child. This family touched her heart, and it was reflected in the beautiful images she captured of the family. We loved that this shoot highlighted a very important aspect of marriage – family and the home that is created when two people commit their lives to one another!

From Hannah Forsberg… I was born in China and left without a birthdate, name, and ultimately family. I think that’s what inspired me to become a photographer; because I know how important it is to have our stories and loved ones documented. The story of adoption is truly so beautiful, because it’s ultimately being welcomed and loved unconditionally, and especially as a child, knowing that you have someone who calls you their own and being willing to love you despite not being your biological family is incredibly powerful and teaches you a lot about what love truly means. Photographing this day was near and dear to my heart and reminded me of the unconditional love that not only husband and wife have for one another on their wedding day, but the sacrifice and love that any adoptee and adoptive parent needs to have for one another. I feel grateful that I had the opportunity to share this story!

What A Wedding Planner’s Vow Renewal Looks Like Amid COVID-19

Judging by the title, you already know this is going to be good. Today’s darling duo celebrated their love all over again at the iconic Swan House & Gardens, a favorite of ours here at SMP. From a blooming infinity arbor by Ten Point Floral Design that’s about to blow up on Pinterest to a moody Autumn palette that will make you swoon… if you’re thinking this could be a styled shoot it’s so good, then you’re so right. Due to COVID-19, this wedding planner bride turned an upcoming editorial she had already planned into her vow renewal – talk about a girl after our own heart. Check out the full gallery right here, all taken by Nicole Flores Photography!

Atlanta wedding planner, Victoria Miller of LUXE Atlanta Events, and her husband recently renewed their vows at the historic Swan House & Gardens, an iconic mansion in the heart of Atlanta. From dreamy florals, including a lush infinity arbor overflowing with greenery to a live artist who captured the vow renewal ceremony on canvas.

If you ever wondered what a wedding planner would dream up for their own celebration, you can see the entire gallery of images below! Victoria and Tyler had initially been planning to renew their vows this September on their actual anniversary. Due to uncertainties surrounding COVID-19, they decided to move their date up and converted an editorial photoshoot Victoria already had designed into the couple’s vow renewal ceremony.

From the Bride… Although we originally had planned to have 40 guests attend our vow renewal this September, the most important thing to my husband and I was that we got to renew our vows this year. We opted to have only a few of our very closest family members celebrate with us for everyone’s safety. We are so happy that we were able to renew our vows this year without having to put it off because of COVID like many other couples have had to do.

My best advice for couples facing having to alter their wedding plans due to Coronavirus is to prioritize what is most important to you and your fiance while considering what is in the best interest of your guests. That may look like having a more intimate ceremony than you originally planned. You can always plan a celebration for a later date when all of your friends and family can attend safely. We were still able to have our special day with people who surrounded us with love and support. Looking back, we wouldn’t change a single thing!

The Best ‘Second First Date’ That Lead To These Two Love Birds Tying The Knot!

For these two, their first date should have been their last, but they gave it another go and their ‘second first date,’ was one to remember. Fast forward and they are tying the knot in a romantic and elegant outdoor wedding, photographed beautifully by Harwell Photography. From sunset shots to gorgeous tablescapes with overflowing florals from Andy Beach, the day was perfectly planned by Chancey Charm! Take a look below and be sure to read that ‘second first date’ story that ended at sunrise!

An interview with the Bride and Groom…

Tell me a little about yourself! Where are you from, what are your interests/hobbies, where did you go to school, etc?
Bride: I am from Brooklyn, New York. I enjoy reading, helping others reach their potential by being their best selves, and meeting creatives. Oh! I am also obsessed with herbal teas and all things HGTV!

Tell me a little about yourself! Where are you from, what are your interest/hobbies, where did you go to school, etc?
Groom: I am from Macon, Georgia. I am passionate about education and mentorship. I enjoy traveling, running, golfing with friends, and volunteering.

Tell us about a date you’ll always remember.
After an awkward first date of silent pauses and sweaty palms, all signs suggested that it should have been our first and last date. Yet knowing intuitively that we saw something special in each other, weeks later, we decided to give it another go. Our second date, affectionately known as our “second first date” and “the best date of our lives” is one we will remember forever and still think of fondly to this day. After a night of laughs and great conversation over dinner, I was relieved when Jamaar had the courage to say exactly what I was thinking -that he did not want the night to end. We decided to go dancing, but somehow we never made it inside. Instead, we found ourselves sitting side by side on a ledge outside of the nightclub, talking about relationships, life, and everything in between until we realized that the club was closing! We discovered that night that we found each other more interesting than anything any around us could offer. Still not wanting the night to be over, we went to the nearby Hammond Park and talked for hours on a park bench underneath the stars into the early morning. Feeling completely at ease in Jamaar’s presence, I felt unusually free to show him my silly side. So I challenged him to a foot race on the soccer field, where he met me with the sweetest forehead kisses and gentle embraces at the finish line. (We still disagree about who actually won the race that night!)

Describe the proposal: Complete synergy! Neither one of us knew that the other was planning a surprise. After weeks of secretly planning a romantic getaway to the Bahamas for Jamaar’s birthday, I was the one that ended up with the surprise of a lifetime! At the end of our one-week vacation stay in the Bahamas, Jamaar proposed on the shore of the beautifully secluded LOVE BEACH (actual name of the beach). Apparently, the proposal was a long time in the making! He had the ring for a while and had asked for my parents’ blessings in advance. Jamaar bending down on one knee and me crying tears of joy was all secretly captured on video as part of his perfect plan! There was no better way that my husband could have proposed, choosing to have the moment to be a shared personal experience with just the two of us.

Tell us about your beautiful engagement ring and how/why your husband (or the two of you!) chose it: Jacqueline’s engagement ring is rose gold with an oval diamond center in a halo setting. I chose to have that ring made for her because it reflects her personality and style with features that are simple, elegant, and unique.

How did you prepare for marriage while planning your wedding? The union of our marriage is very sacred to us; one which we were intentional about entering into reverently. We read his and her companion books by Tony Allen- For Married Men Only and For Married Women Only. We also completed pre-marital counseling.

Tell us all the basics of your wedding! Season, location, venue, time of day, city and state, etc. Why did you choose these things? Did any of these details hold special meaning for you as a couple?
We were married on September 9, 2016, in Alpharetta, Georgia. The evening ceremony was held outdoors underneath a beautifully decorated gazebo overlooking a small river. Being outdoors is when we feel the most connected to one another, so we knew that was where we wanted to say our “I do’s.”

Three adjectives that describe the day are: Beautiful, Loving, and Emotional

What was the weather like on your big day?
Amazing- upper 80s with a light breeze. Clear with plenty of sunshine.

How many guests attended your wedding?
100 guests

What was the design inspiration for your wedding? Why was this design special to you as a couple?
Inspired by nature, we wanted to design a wedding that was filled with as much beauty as we feel love for one another. It was also important to us that our guests felt surrounded by the joy and happiness that we wanted to represent for our new beginning as husband and wife.

Bride’s favorite detail of the wedding:
The highlight of the day was walking down the aisle and seeing Jamaar waiting for me. Leading up to the wedding, my matron of honor told me to “remember to stop and smell the roses and bask in the moment. It will only be about the two of you on that day.” And she was right! I focused on my husband the entire time I walked down the aisle, and I will never forget the way he looked at me with all the emotion in his eyes.

Groom’s favorite detail of the wedding:
The pre-ceremony gift experience. Jacqueline surprised me with a personalized gift that included a pocket watch and a handwritten letter. The letter inspired me with overwhelming gratitude and love. My heart was activated in a special way, inspiring an expression of emotion that was uncontrollable, authentic, and unprecedented.

Tell us about finding your wedding dress. What was your favorite thing about it?
I wore a mermaid style wedding gown with off white Alencon lace by Matthew Christopher. After having tried on several dresses, I knew that it was the one because it made me feel like the most beautiful version of myself! The champagne lining ended up being my favorite thing about the dress. Choosing a dress with a hint of color, over a traditional white gown, represented my courage to be uniquely me. I finished the entire look with an off white lace-edged veil, pearl jewelry, and peep-toe shoes from Badgley Mischka.

Describe your bridesmaids’ dresses. How did you choose them?
My bridesmaids wore blush-colored wrap dresses from BHLDN. I chose a dress that I hoped would be easy, light, and make them feel beautiful.

What did the groom and groomsmen wear?
I wore a blue shawl lapel tuxedo with a black bow tie, covered placket white shirt, black patent leather shoes, and a white pocket square. The groomsmen wore a navy blue suit, black tie, covered placket white shirt, black patent leather shoes, white pocket square. We all wore a black rosebud flower lapel pin for a modern take on the traditional boutonniere.

Tell us about your wedding flowers. How did you choose them? What did you love about them? Your wedding should always be infused with things that you love….and I love flowers! It was the center of the wedding design. We wanted to create an atmosphere that was classic and romantic. I was inspired by my engagement ring to use shades of blush, cream, and white. I chose to incorporate my favorite flowers which included orchids, garden roses, and hydrangea.

Bride’s bouquet:
I carried a beautiful bouquet of orchids, spray roses, and garden roses. The stem of the bouquet was wrapped in cream silk ribbon and cream lace ribbon with accented pearls.

Bridesmaids’ bouquets:
The bridesmaids carried a fluffy bouquet of white hydrangea wrapped with blush satin ribbon with a petit double loop bow with tails.

How did you spend the morning or afternoon before your ceremony?
Groom: I picked up roses to decorate our honeymoon suite, listened to special gospel songs to prepare my mind for the day, and had a quiet lunch alone. The groomsmen and I later spent time together coordinating grooming activities.

Bride: I wanted to be sure that I cherished the final moments of my singlehood bonding with my dearest friends, who are like sisters to me. So I had a mini spa day with my bridesmaids to help get us relaxed and ready for the big day!

Did you have any special pre-ceremony activities?
Being of Ghanaian descent, it was important to me that I acknowledged my heritage during this special time in my life. Prior to the wedding, we held a traditional Ghanaian engagement ceremony that involved our parents.

Tell us a bit about the wedding ceremony. What part was most special to you? Did you include any special readings?
The most special part of the wedding was having a ceremony that reflected our faith and reverence for God that brought us together.

Were there any family traditions you included in the ceremony?
We included Kente cloth in our ceremony for the officiant to wear. I wanted to highlight the Kente cloth as part of my culture and as symbolism for the occasion.

What songs did you use for your ceremony? Processional, interlude, recessional?
The string trio played Canon in D Pachelbel (processional), A Thousand Years (Bride entrance), I Surrender All Hymnal (interlude), and Signed, Sealed, Delivered (recessional)

What was the most memorable or touching moment of your wedding day?
Groom: Reading the personalized letter from my wife and experiencing her walking towards me during the ceremony.
Bride: The entire day was so special but the one lasting memory was having all of our loved ones celebrating our union. It is an amazing way to start your life together.

Who was one of the most special guests at your wedding?
On the most special milestone of our lives, we wished to lovingly remember those close to our hearts who were no longer with us, or unable to attend. We did this by honoring our grandmothers by placing their photos in special reserved seating in the front row of the ceremony.

What was your reception like?
Romantic, Elegant, yet comfortable.

Tell us a bit about your first dance.
For our first dance, we danced to Lalah Hathaway’s cover of the Anita Baker song “Angel.” The moment was amazing…it felt as if we were the only two people in the room.

Tell us about your wedding cake or sweets.
We chose individual almond cupcakes with buttercream, adorned with a blush petal flower with a gold center. We also chose a non-traditional 8” tall carrot cake decorated with fresh ivory and blush colored roses.

What advice would you give to someone currently planning his or her wedding?
The best advice we can give to other couples is to consider that there is life after your wedding. Plan accordingly, budget, be flexible, consider each other’s feelings during the planning, and remember that life begins after the “I do’s.” To future brides, when you make a major decision- go with it and move-on! You can drive yourselves nuts if you are constantly doubting and re-thinking every decision. Be yourselves. Your guests love you and are there to celebrate you. Incorporate as much of your personality and culture as you can. Finally, be as present with the experience as you possibly can every step of the way, because it goes by fast!

Here’s Proof That Intimate Weddings Are Just as Breathtaking as Lavish Affairs

If your guest count had to be majorly reduced due to COVID-19 restrictions and you’re worried your Big Day won’t be as beautiful as you once imagined… allow this stunningly intimate affair at Foxhall Resort to prove you oh so wrong. Just think – less of your budget on guest meals means more for heavenly blooms and jaw-dropping decor. Bloomin’ Bouquets absolutely blew us away with their whimsical dusty pink arrangements, from the circular floral ceremony installation to the centerpieces. Don’t miss out on the full gallery, captured by Amy Arrington Photography and planned by Shelley Legg of Chancey Charm, for all the intimate wedding inspiration.

From Amy Arrington Photography… The most inspirational small wedding! Nancy and Haoran envisioned their wedding day to be small and romantic. They wanted to be surrounded by their closest family and friends from both America and China.

Their wedding planner, Shelley Legg, of Chancey Charm, brought their vision to life. They wanted a venue with a blank canvas, and chose Foxhall Resort in Georgia. They had their sweet ceremony in a field, and a perfect dinner party out on the patio at The Paddock Restaurant.

Dusty pinks, whites, and lush greens were their floral vision, and Bloomin’ Bouquets created wonderful arrangements. The ceremony included a whimsical circular floral installation. The dinner tables included two long estate tables filled with simple and delicate floral arrangements.

Borrowed and Blue created the most perfect place settings. Cakes by Carissa made their wedding cake, and Eltude Entertainment provided amazing ceremony and dinner party music.

Vibrant, Feminine Wedding Inspiration for Every Modern Bride

From the stunning bride who is the epitome of a natural beauty to the vibrant floral arrangements with pops of pink and yellow by Luna Rose Floral Design – there is so much to love about today’s editorial planned by G&A Weddings. Georgia brides, if you haven’t already heard of The Bibb Mill Event Center – prepare to be obsessed – because that ceremony location is unlike any other! Head on over to the full gallery captured by Laura Anne Watson Photography to see it all!

From Laura Anne Watson Photography… Featuring a confident bride, this stunning styled shoot by G&A Weddings has all of the feminine feels for every modern bride looking to show off their true look. Our bride was our inspiration. Hannah had just decided on a big chop to go back to her roots and embrace her true look during quarantine.

I think she showed true confidence and comfort in herself to make a decision like that, and I love her for it! She embraced her look fully, and it was inspiring to me as the photographer to capture because her emotions were so bold, raw, and captivating. Hannah has such a vibrant personality, and it paired perfectly with the bold, feminine colors in the floral arrangements.

With touches of pink and yellow florals and set in an old mill climbing with greenery in Columbus, Georgia, the forgotten architecture and floral combination created a romantic flair. Luna Rose Florals crafted a vibrant bouquet and boutonniere for our couple. But her floral garland that hung onto the outdoor windows overlooking the river was the aspect of the shoot that I loved most. As the ceremony backdrop, it was the perfect complimentary accent to the backdrop of the Mill ruins.

The Bibb Mill Event Center has forgotten romance built into it’s architecture. I wanted to highlight some of the southern touches and features of the mill – the softened brick, Spanish moss, overgrown greenery, and landscaped gardens. Overall, we wanted to create an aesthetic that felt historic and gentle while also bringing the bold, modern, playful vibes! All images captured on film.

You’ll Never Believe This European-Style Mansion Venue Is in Atlanta!

If you’ve never heard of the Swan House in Atlanta, then boy are you in for a treat. It’s elegant, classic, historic and overflowing with old world romance. Today’s wedding is the perfect example of the Swan House at it’s best. Heavenly white flowers from Edge Design Group, a stunning bride in a chic Oscar De La Renta dress, and the most photogenic pup we’ve ever seen grace the pages of SMP. Lucky for us, Willett Photography was there to capture every last detail, all planned by Toast Events. Check out the full gallery for more inspiration!

From Willett Photography… Who knew rollerblades and a sweet smile could make a couple last forever? Sarah and a friend went rolling into Cole’s fraternity house one summer afternoon and the rest is history!

This sweet couple were both from Atlanta and couldn’t’ have imagined a more authentic location that the Swan House.

Not only did they find the perfect location, the early spring day was quite literally the perfect day for their wedding.

Incorporating the local dogwood flower and their sweet puppy Archie, it felt even more personal than ever. Did you see Archie’s bowtie?

It was a beautiful day for a stunning couple, and we are so grateful to have captured each minute!

This Is What Spring Wedding Dreams Are Made of

If you’re in need of an instant mood-booster (and let’s be real, in times like these – we all do), this heavenly Swan House wedding will do just that! It’s the epitome of all things Spring, dogwood trees in full bloom, blush pink bridesmaid gowns, delicate floral from Ginger Rose, and whimsical decor curated to perfection by Stella Harper Events. Spring brides – don’t forget to check out the full gallery of images to get all the spring wedding inspo you’ll ever need, taken by Amy Arrington Photography!

From Amy Arrington… Kristen and Greg met during the first weekend of their freshman year in college at St. Louis. Shortly after, they had joint study sessions, and casual dinner dates in the dining hall. They continued dating for 8 years, and decided to tie the not on April 6, 2019.

They chose to have their wedding at the historic Swan House in Atlanta, Georgia. Their vision was to have a classic spring wedding, and it was one of the most beautiful classic spring weddings that one could ever hope for. The pink dogwood trees were in full bloom surrounding the house.

The beautiful architecture of the swan house is amazing alone, but paired with gardens full of spring flowers and electric green foilage is next level. Soft, delicate florals arranged beautifully by Alyssa at Ginger Rose were perfect for the spring season.

The large flower arrangements at the ceremony site were incredible statement pieces with the most gorgeous dogwood flowers. And nothing says spring more than dogwoods! The tablescapes at their reception had a whimsical feel and consisted of a variety of florals with soft textures.

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Old & New Mix in a Chic Atlanta Townhouse

Any time a submission begins with “old and new” our heart skips a beat. It is quite possibly one of our favorite combos. Why? Because combining old and new means that there’s a level of intentionality and discovery inside, and it was a process to create.

10/10 times it’s a winning combination, and this Atlanta townhome was everything we hoped the title insinuated.

When we bought this classic Buckhead townhouse in October of 2018, the design hadn’t been touched since the neighborhood was built in the 80’s. I gave the house a fresh coat of white paint, with a high-gloss finish in the living areas to give it a luminous glow, and then gave the dining room a beautiful coat of pale blue-green (Clare’s “Headspace” color).

We had the old carpeting ripped out and I selected a durable luxury-vinyl plank flooring in a dark cool brown that’s completely waterproof, so perfect for extending into the kitchen and bathrooms. When it came time to select new furniture and decor, I worked with my mom to blend new and old for an elegant mix of periods that was still chic and feminine – a perfect reflection of her style!

The biggest statement in the house is the pink chinoiserie mural I selected for the entryway – appropriately named “Magnolia” from Anewall, it’s a removable wallpaper that was easy to put up and perfect for welcoming guests to the house. The living room featured soft reds and pops of blue, with spotted chairs making a fun seating area in the bay window.

I had custom pillows made for an old iron daybed to turn it into an inviting sofa across from the fireplace, and chose Scalamandre’s iconic Zebra pattern for the ottoman as a centerpiece for the space. In the dining room, I pulled the gorgeous blue-green from my mom’s antique dining chairs onto the walls and then balanced the heirlooms in the room with modern lighting and accents like an oversized abstract I painted to bring a calm, neutral foundation to the room.

A pop of red carries through the decor, from the dining chair fabric to the striped curtains and a splash in the painting. The kitchen was in dire need of a refresh, and just by painting the cabinetry and replacing the floors it instantly felt updated. I also added a standalone kitchen island to make better use of the space, and centered the Art Deco crystal chandelier above for a much-needed injection of glamour.

The powder bath was completely redone with a custom sink vanity built into an old dresser, paired with a mirror and an old piece of artwork from my highschool AP art concentration. A vintage green glass light fixture from my mom found its perfect home in here! The staircase was given a makeover with the help of sleek new baluster rods and durable black paint on the stair treads. I hung a modern pierced pendant above that makes the most beautiful pattern on the walls when its lit.

The bedrooms above for my sister and I reflected our personalities perfectly, with a combination of green and blue in my room and simple neutrals in my sister’s space. The master bedroom got a hotel-inspired makeover with fluffy white bedding, campaign-style nightstands, glass lamps, and a pair of mirrors for classic symmetry. The curtains were taken from a showhouse project I completed and worked perfectly in here to help emphasize height with their color-blocked design.

I turned the secondary bathroom area into a vanity room featuring one of my own rug designs from the Kevin Francis Design Labyrinth Collection and a petite desk with wicker caning on the drawers. The bathroom was renovated to include a double-vanity instead of a single, and the bathtub was turned into a modern walk-in shower with high contrast grout and a herringbone-patterned floor tile.

The deck was our outdoor escape, and I brought it to life with classic blue and white striped pillows that made the built-in bench into a dining banquette and infused the space with lots of plants that helped create lush barriers between the different areas. At the end outside of the dining room, our old patio fountain filled with plants made for a great view from inside the house.

Photography: Kevin Ogara | Interior Design: Kevin Ogara

This Stunning 9-Foot Floral Arch Will Blow Your Mind

There’s something so effortlessly romantic about an outdoor ceremony. The fresh air mixed with the natural beauty of a garden is enough to get anyone’s heart pumping. Throw in a 9-foot floral arch, overflowing with lush blooms, and you’ve got the ultimate show stopper. Jessica Gold Photography captured all the charming details of this beautiful wedding day. You can get lost in all the stunning imagery in the full gallery.

From the bride… We incorporated softness and organic touches into each design element: tulle bridesmaid gowns, growing floral arch and arrangements, delicate calligraphy, and more. For example, we used dried peony petals and rosebuds as a post-nuptial toss.

Our wedding and celebration was inspired by romantic gardens, feminine details, and a pastel color palette. Botanical nuances are present throughout, in addition to the gorgeous flowers.

There was always an underlying level of romance and fanciful style. A mixture of tall and short centerpieces made the reception room visually dynamic, while special details made the space uniquely our own.

Each detail of the day was lovingly thought through to tell our story. The celebration turned out to be even better than we ever could’ve hoped for.