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Say “I Do” at The Greenhouse at Driftwood

Texas Hill Country is made for marrying, I don’t need to tell you that.  And when it comes to choosing a locale in this pretty little Lone Star State paradise, look no further than The Greenhouse at Driftwood, a breathtaking venue that is equal parts elegant AND unique. Think lush foliage, natural open spaces and a true attention to conservation and sustainability.  We’re honestly obsessed.

Tucked amidst the Onion and Jackson Creeks just miles from the Austin city limits, The Greenhouse at Driftwood is unlike any other venue you will ever have the privilege to visit with amazing structures and surroundings all cared for by THREE generations of the same family.  Yep, from the century-old Oaks to their beautiful greenhouse to their breathtaking deck, The Greenhouse at Driftwood is giving Hill Country weddings a whole new meaning.  Not to mention that The Greenhouse has been collecting rainwater for primary water use since the 1970’s, uses rooftop solar panels for most of their power needs AND proudly supports Hill Country Conservancy and the Travis Audubon Society. We love that.

Can’t wait to say “I do” amongst the native plants and awe-inspiring scenery of The Greenhouse at Driftwood?  Contact them TODAY to start planning the wedding you’ve always wanted.  It’s going to be awesome, lovelies.

Photography: Ashley Bosnick Photography | Photography: Charla Storey Photography | Photography: Sophie Epton Photography | Photography: Ashley Garmon Photographers | Floral Design: Oh Deery Floral | Floral Design: Rosehip Flora | Wedding Venue: The Greenhouse At Driftwood | Planning: Grit & Gold Event Co. | Planning: 36th Street Events | Rentals: Loot Vintage Rentals

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Winter Wonderland Wedding Fit for a Snow King + Queen

Simply put, winter weddings warm our heart. Add in the fact that this daring Bride planned this snow-kissed celebration all on her own and you better bet we’re impressed. A day complete with a handsome man in uniform, dazzling decor, and of course endless love,  Melina Wallisch Photography has captured it all to share and we’ve got every bit of it waiting for you in The Vault!

Colors
Settings
Lodge
Styles
Casual

From Melina Wallisch PhotographyNathan is a Top Gun fighter pilot, as in Tom Cruise but, according to his best man, much better looking, way more skilled, and taller! Courtney is a talented Interior Designer from Fresno, California, who just happens to be smoking hot! Due to Nathan’s fighter pilot duties, the madly in love pair were kept far distances apart from each other. There was a small window of time over the Holidays where he was able to visit, so Courtney planned their wedding on the one weekend in December where they could be together! She would have never envisioned a wedding in the middle of December, but soon became very excited about the idea of a Winter Wonderland destination wedding in Lake Tahoe. She pulled it off seamlessly. Fresh snow had fallen the evening before, creating a blanket of white around the mountainside Chateau in Incline Village, Nevada. Snowflakes, lush white florals and glittery baubles sparkled throughout the design, set against flowy winter white drapery. Tree branches adorned with twinkle lights provided ambient uplighting. Frosty silver bridesmaids dresses looked beautiful next to Courtney’s long sleeve, open back, lace wedding gown and cathedral veil. Courtney’s snow white Ugg boots were perfect for keeping her toes warm throughout traveling to the venue and taking pictures in the snow, saving her rhinestone peep-toe Badgley Mischka heels for the wedding. A classic military sword routine welcomed the newlyweds to their grand entrance. The reception was a spirited dance party indoors (Courtney plays a mean air guitar!) coupled with cigars and smore’s around the fire pit on the veranda. The celebration continued on into the night, and ended with a farewell brunch the following day.

Photography: Melina Wallisch Photography | Cinematography: Mabble Media | Coordination: R Wedding House | Event Design: Red Carpet Events And Design | Floral Design: High Sierra Gardens | Floral Design: Emily Leue-Williams, Manzanita Glow | Wedding Dress: Kenneth Winston | Cake: Flour Girl Cakes | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Adrianna Papell | Hair: Acqua Hair Design | DJ: Cornerstone Entertainment | Venue: The Chateau At Incline Village | Rentals: Camelot Party Rentals Nevada

Stunning Bridesmaid Dresses with twobirds Bridesmaid + A Giveaway!

twobirds Bridesmaid is awesome, I don’t need to tell you that.  I mean, gorgeous bridesmaid frocks that can be wrapped in endless ways to flatter ALL body types?  Genius.  From their amazing selection of soft + stunning fabrics to their 40+ color options to their fab new collections, twobirds Bridesmaid is the best thing to happen to weddings since, well… gold, glitter and peonies.  Soak them all in below.

We’ve all been there.  That crazy day of bridesmaid dress shopping that turns into an almost impossible task, because, well… each one of your besties is sooo different.  Enter twobirds Bridesmaid and their insanely gorgeous lineup of convertible dresses.  I’m talking dresses that requires ZERO alterations, are totally maternity friendly and can be worn time and time again… long after the Big Day is over.  Not to mention their lineup of beautiful hues + brilliant fabric options.  It’s a mixing and matching lovers dream with options in jersey, tulle AND rosette.  And don’t even get me started on the many styling options. These dresses are magic.

Ready to begin your journey towards the world’s happiest bridal party?  Head to twobirds Bridesmaid TODAY to peruse the pretty.  And stay tuned for new collection featuring their bridal gown in lace (!), tulle ombre and jumpsuits.  Not able to visit the showroom in New York? No worries.  twobirds Bridesmaid will ship you samples you can try on in the comfort of your own home, because, well… they’re amazing.

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the-giveaway

What: twobirds Bridesmaid is giving away THREE convertible dresses to one lucky bride and her bridal party! (Value $930)

Who: One lucky bride, chosen completely at random, will be announced right here on SMP on Friday, April 22, 2016.

How: Enter below, lovelies! Good luck! xo

SMP Southwest Giveaway!

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Intimate Desert Elopement in Nevada

Beautiful in every sense of the word, this intimate desert elopement is just so incredibly special. The images from Gaby J Photography are just pure works of art, and the love this gorgeous couple shares just seems to seep through the screen. It leaves us with a gallery that is too good to pass over, and you can see it all in the VAULT.

From The Bride…I proposed to Sian in Rome in front of the Trevvi Fountain. One of the benefits of being a bride, marrying a bride is having two sets of rings. So it was a matter of who is going to be the first to propose. And when in Rome..

Living in the UK, we didn’t want any part in the glamorous over the top wedding. That’s just not us at all. Going against our code however, we planned for something at home but the constant clawing of making everyone happy, made us feel worse. We scrapped that whole idea after being invited to our friend’s wedding in Las Vegas. So on a whim here we are researching everything there is to know about a low key elopement in Las Vegas. We both wanted something really different and the dry lake bed in it’s secludedness was perfect! We had the best of both worlds, intimacy in the desert & the twinkling lights of Vegas. We wanted our day to be fun and stress-free. By doing so, we both had 6 stacks of pancakes and waffles as soon as we woke up. Got pampered by getting our hair and makeup done. Followed by bringing a bottle of champagne and Bouchon’s finest macarons for our “first cake.”

My advice would be that it is one day in your life so make sure it’s the way you want it to be. Not all the other people who may be attending. We loved the fact it was just the two of us there.

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Photography: Gaby J Photography | Wedding Dresses: Ocean Bridal | Hair + Makeup: Ciel Spa At Sls | Officiant: Peachy Keen Unions | Venue: El Dorado Dry Lake Bed | Macarons: Bouchon Bakery

Morada Bay Weddings

Seaside weddings make my heart happy.  And a seaside wedding at Morada Bay?  Well, that’s an entirely new level of joy.  Think a breathtaking bayside setting, a talented team of wedding experts and a never-ending lineup of fabulous resources that will turn that dream day into an absolute reality.  We are sooo on board.

From their stunning locale in the heart of Islamorada to their staff that knows everything there is to know about throwing a fabulous party, Morada Bay’s fabulous accommodations and sparkling beaches were simply made for marrying.  Which means that whether you’re planning a small, intimate affair with just your nearest and dearest or a grander event with 200 special someones, Morada Bay has JUST what you are looking for… and all overlooking those pristine beaches and glistening waters the Florida Keys are known for.

Contact Morada Bay TODAY to begin planning your unforgettable wedding.  We CAN’T WAIT to see the results.

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Photography (Top to Botton): Maxime Photo & Video (Photos 1,3,6) + Pierre’s (Photo 2) + Jannette De Llanos Photography (Photo 4)

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Elegant Glenbrook Club Wedding in Nevada

For starters how adorbs are these flower girls?! Talk about cuteness overload and the best party is that these darlings are only the beginning of the gorge that lies in this gallery. Because Virgil Bunao was behind the lens of this majorly elegant affair planned in the hands of Summit Soiree and you’ll want to see it all in THE VAULT!

From Virgil BunaoI’ve been to the Lake Tahoe area before, and luckily for me, it was another wedding I worked on previously with Summit Soiree (they have some of the best brides!). I seriously had a huge case of the blues after leaving the area; Lake Tahoe is just brilliant and the landscape is a photographer’s dream. When Summit Soiree informed me that I had an inquiry to do photography for Katie and Erik’s big day in Glenbrook, I was extremely overjoyed and so pumped to head back.

I arrived in Glenbrook on a Wednesday, left on Monday, and was able to cram all of the festivities and the scenery in that short amount of time. Katie and Erik and their families met up with me, and they were such good folk. Their rehearsal dinner was in the midst of the beautiful nature scenes of Lake Tahoe with such a laid-back feel. Their wedding was no different. The day was as perfect as it could be; great weather, no clouds, and the sun was shining off of the surface of the blue waters. Katie and Erik chose to have their ceremony in front of the lake and from every angle, there was a perfect shot.

Their design elements was the ideal accompaniment to the surroundings. They incorporated greens and creamy whites, fern leaves and branches and rustic browns and tans; everything tied in very well with the nature scene at the Glenbrook Club. Ashlie and Heather from Summit Soiree did a great job at executing the vision Katie and Erik had for their wedding day, and I had a blast photographing it and especially Mr. and Mrs. Mcdonald. They made my stay in Lake Tahoe another wonderful experience, and it was a treat on its own to be in such a beautiful place, helping beautiful people make new memories.

Vault CTA

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See even more head-turning trends here!

Photography: Virgil Bunao Photography | Event Planning: Summit Soiree | Floral Design: Thran's Flowers | Hair And Makeup: Tahoe Beauty | DJ: Moonlight Mobile DJ | Ceremony Music: Avalanche Music | Transportation: Reno Tahoe Limousine | Venue: The Glenbrook Club | Rentals: Camelot Party Rentals Nevada | Tent Rentals: Celebration Party Rentals | Vendor: Allure Bridal

Doie Lounge Robes + A Giveaway!

You’ve spent months planning your wedding day attire… from the dress to the shoes, you’re completely covered.  So when it comes to choosing a getting ready outfit, you want something just as glamorous. Enter Doie Lounge, a lineup of seriously stunning robes that will make you look as beautiful as you feel the morning of. Think super soft modal jersey, patterned silk and gorgeous colors.  They’re awesome.

Eco-friendly and totally functional, each Doie Lounge robe is produced locally in Los Angeles with natural and sustainable fabrics and features an inner and outer tie, so you can rest assured they won’t slip off unexpectedly.  Not to mention, they look ah-mazing on girls both short AND tall, and are available in sizes x-small to x-large, so they are more than perfect for every.single.one of your besties. Oh, and those lovely eye masks?  Soooo fabulous.

From the Big Day to every day after, getting ready (+ lounging around) with Doie Lounge robes is as easy as it is beautiful with bulk order options and fabulous one-on-one customer service.  Yep, simply email Founder, Sara, at sara@doielounge.com and she’ll be happy to answer all of your questions, plus talk color options.  How amazing is that?

Visit Doie Lounge today to start your journey towards a picture-perfect wedding day.  And for even more inspiration, check out Doie Lounge on Instagram, Facebook and Twitterplus see all of their real weddings here.

the-giveaway

WhatDoie Lounge is giving away one beautiful robe – winner’s choice! (Value $148)

How: To enter, simply visit Doie Lounge and leave a comment below telling us your favorite robe!

Who: One lucky winner, chosen completely at random, will be announced right here on SMP on Friday, January 8, 2016.  For terms and conditions, click here.  Good luck, lovelies! xo

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Image Credits:  Valorie Darling Photography (Photography, Photo 1-3, 5-6, 9) + Artistry by Danika (Makeup,Photo 1-3, 5-6, 9) + Trace Henningsen Bridal (Hair & Hair Pieces,Photo 1-3, 5-6, 9) + Callaway Gable Studios (Photography, Photo 4) + Charity Swords Photography (Photography, Photo 7) + Weddings by Scott & Dana (Photography, Photo 8)

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Blogger Bride Boxwood Avenue’s Dalmatian Themed Bridal Shower

Hi SMP friends! It’s Chloe again, visiting you from Boxwood Avenue. I think it’s safe to say a good party incorporates a fun activity, good food, and great friends, which perfectly sums up my bridal shower! It was a beautiful day held at the Depot Distillery in Reno, Nevada. Their house-made vodka was used in my specialty cocktail, and the food was absolutely delicious! The day was made special by so many little details, but one of my favorites was the XO cocktail napkins that Hibiscus Linens designed for me!

When it came to deciding what type of bridal shower I wanted to have, I knew I wanted to implement Dalmatians and flowers. They happen to be two of my favorite things. That, of course, and a few DIY projects. I also knew I wanted to give my guests something to do, aside from the typical games and activities, because I am not a huge fan of the games that are traditionally played at most showers.

I settled on some DIY flower arranging, a photo booth, and “laundry tip” cards where guests could share their best piece of laundry advice. I set up a large table full of greens, flowers, and vases, and let my guests create their own arrangements, and the best piece of advice I received was to, “find a good dry cleaner!”

During the planning process, I had a blast creating all sorts of things for my shower. I even sewed the Dalmatian print pillows you see in the photos. I’m a sucker for miniature animals, so I, of course, had to utilize those mini Dalmatians somehow! I ended up using them as place settings for my bridesmaids. My girls spent the morning making beautiful bouquets, and afterwards, we let the guests vote for who made the best arrangement. We all had fun using the photo booth which featured a backdrop of (silk) flowers. I got the idea from my wedding planner, A Savvy Event. All in all, I had a wonderful bridal shower, and I will cherish the moments I shared with my favorite ladies for the rest of my life.

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Follow Chloe’s Journey:

Meet the Bride | DIY Favors | Dress Shopping Tips | DIY Calligraphy

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DIY Calligraphy with Boxwood Avenue

Photography: Melina Wallisch Photography | Event & Floral Design: Chloe Mackintosh At Boxwood Avenue | Event Planning: A Savvy Event | Venue: The Depot Craft Brewery Distillery | Desserts: Josef's Vienna Bakery | Linen Rentals: Camelot Party Rentals New York | XO Cocktail Napkins: Hibiscus Linens

Chloe Mackintosh

Blogger Bride
SMP Blogger Bride: Boxwood Avenue DIY Calligraphy Tablescape

Chloe from Boxwood Avenue here, and now that we’ve gotten to know each other a bit better, you probably realize I am a die hard DIY’er, and today I am giving you a sneak peek at another DIY project I am doing for our wedding! Captured by Melina Wallisch Photography and Dax Victorino Films at the Depot Craft Brewery Distillery in Reno, Nevada, I’m giving you an inside guide on mastering calligraphy!

DIY Calligraphy with Boxwood Avenue

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After Greg and I got engaged, I decided I was going to learn calligraphy, in order to do myself, what would have traditionally been outsourced to a calligraphist. After a few practice sessions, I fell in love with calligraphy, and haven’t looked back. I definitely don’t consider myself a calligraphist, more of a hobbyist experimenting with different techniques, but as I learned, I found some amazing resources, and have decided to share them with you! If you’ve been wanting to learn calligraphy, I’ve just launched a completely free workshop on my blog, so head on over and sign up! I promise, all it takes is a little patience and a whole lot of practice.

Materials
Luxe Cream Paper
Gold Ink
Your favorite calligraphy pen and nib (Nikko G is my favorite!)
Lettermate
Pencil
Eraser
Scrapbooking Trimmer

instructions

step-1Cut menus and table numbers into 5×7” pieces, and name tags into 2.5×4” pieces using the scrapbook trimmer.

step-2Using your pencil and lettermate, lightly mark straight lines along the paper. One line for name tags, two lines (spaced far apart) for the table numbers, and multiple lines for the menus.

step-3Shake your gold ink well, dip your pen into the ink, and get to writing! Try printing a few of the lines in all caps to add dimension to the menus.

step-4Allow the ink to fully dry, then erase the pencil lines.

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I used this frame from World Market for the table numbers, and these place card holders from BHLDN

Photography: Melina Wallisch Photography | Cinematography: Dax Victorino Films | Event Planning: Amazon | Floral Design: Chloe Mackintosh At Boxwood Avenue | Invitations: Paper Source | Jewelry: BHLDN | Calligraphy: Chloe Mackintosh At Boxwood Avenue | Bridal Shower & Bachelor + Bachelorette Parties: World Market | Restaurant : The Depot Craft Brewery Distillery | Vendor: Paper And Ink Arts

Chloe Mackintosh

Blogger Bride
Whimsical Pop-Up Elopement

This, loves, is the greatest elopement of all time.  I’m talking a breathtaking Nevada setting, a fun-loving duo and the talented Victoria of Flora Pop crafting every last moment in a crazy cool pop-up wedding. Yes, a pop-up wedding.  One filled with gorgeous blooms, yummy donuts and all sorts of chic stylings. Fall in love with every moment captured by Gaby Jeter right here.

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Casual

From Flora Pop… Lisa & Jason are a couple from Philadelphia that wanted something different for their wedding day. They found ‘Flora Pop’ and knew that a Pop-Up Elopement was perfect for them!

Lisa and Jason were married in the Eldorado Dry Lake Bed just 40 mins outside Las Vegas, in Boulder City. Lisa had a vision for their day. Flowers everywhere, cacti, plants and lots of greenery. They also wanted a small reception after, so a champagne toast seating area complete with wedding cake doughnuts and styled to vintage perfection was set-up for them as they arrived. Not only does Victoria from Flora Pop style, make the floral arrangements and bring all the props, but she also officiates with a civil ceremony!

Once their limo pulled up everyone got out and was just blown away by the expansiveness of the desert and it’s beauty. They were taken aback by the set-up and their day exceeded all expectations that they had! Lisa brought photos of loved ones that had passed and it was a very sweet and intimate wedding.

Gaby J of Gaby J Photography documented the day with her perfect vintage aesthetic. She’s one of the few film photographers left and her images are spot on!

Photography: Gaby J Photography | Styling : Flora Pop | Floral Design : Flora Pop | Officiant : Flora Pop | Flora Pop's Pop-Up Wedding Chapel: Flora Pop | Instagram : Flora Pop | Some Decor : Patina

SMP Southwest Welcomes Our Advertisers

To usher in the weekend, we’ve got a whole lot of pretty up our sleeves thanks to Stevee Danielle Hair and Makeup. For the past five years, these hair + make up gurus have been bringing the salon directly to brides and their ladies. With an incredible staff that trains weekly on bridal specific styles + makeup looks, you can rest assured that you’ll be looking your best on your big day!

Available 24/7,  Stevee Danielle Hair and Makeup with do their magic in their studio or on location (with no traveling fees!). They use the best brands (MAC + Dinair for airbrush) and make sure you and your ladies are looking gorgeous! Head over here for more info and to book your big day.

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Welcome to the family, Stevee!  We are so excited to have you! xo

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Classic Elegance at The Glenbrook Club

Can we talk about this Bride’s chignon for a sec? It was this first capture from Elisabeth Millay that pulled me into this classic soiree and still has me completely captivated. What is it about a perfect hair-do that gets us girls so crazy excited?! And don’t even get me started on her Vera Wang dress. Dying. I might suggest that you head on over to the full gallery to indulge a bit more—sooo worth it.

From the beautiful Bride…Chris and I were married in a place very special to both of us. We got married at my family’s vacation getaway in Glenbrook, Lake Tahoe. I have spent 30 summers growing up in Glenbrook, and introduced Chris to “Glenbrook heaven” when we first starting dating. It was the first place he told me he loved me, and where we’ve had countless family celebrations, such as my grandfather’s 90th birthday and my brother’s wedding. There is a magical serenity about this hidden cove of Lake Tahoe, and it was the ideal setting to launch our adventure together.

I wanted to take advantage of the rustic nature of Lake Tahoe but also bring in classic elegance to the venue. The ceremony took place on a grassy spot overlooking the Lake, with a string trio welcoming our guests as they mingled over lemonade and enjoyed the views. It was a a warm, breezy, perfect September Lake Tahoe day.

We tented the front deck of the clubhouse and strung cafe lights, creating a romantic and elegant ambiance among the Tahoe pine trees. I incorporated pine cones throughout the reception decor; since I was a little girl, the moment we’d drive into the gates of Glenbrook I’d open the car window to smell the fresh pine air, so it was special to incorporate what exemplifies Tahoe to me. Leading up to the wedding, I spent hours collecting pine cones around the lake. We used them as table number holders and escort card holders.

In contrast to the rustic pine cones, we had soft almond linens, ivory striped runners on farm tables, and the head and cake tables were adorned with blush sequin runners. Candles throughout the reception imbued a romantic and cozy vibe. Classic calligraphy elements were displayed throughout the ceremony, from escort and place cards, to handwritten menus and signs. I surprised Chris (a Notre Dame alum and Irish football fanatic) with a Notre Dame-themed groom’s carrot cake, which paired beautifully with our “celebration” funfetti and banana peanut butter cakes simply adorned with ruffled frosting and garden roses. I will never forget that special moment cutting the cake with my mother’s heirloom silver cake cutter, taking in the energy and love from our friends and family in the room. Our flowers were an exquisite pink and blush mix of garden roses, roses, hydrangeas, dahlias, ranunculus, anemones and greenery.

Our signature cocktails included a “Ritz 100” which we toasted with after we were engaged in London at The Ritz, and a Rob Roy which is Chris and his father’s special drink. Fresh and local dishes included an appetizer of truffle risotto, entrees of wild salmon and new york steak, paired with heirloom tomatoes, late summer succotash and roasted baby potatoes.

After the pink and pearl confetti toss sending us off on our decorated golf cart, guests departed armed with french macaron favors which my bridesmaids and I spent hours lovingly packaging the day before with pink ribbons over glasses of rose.

From day one, Chris and I simply wanted an amazing party celebrating with our family and closest friends. We had an incredible band, everyone danced the night away, and it was an evening exuding love and friendship, with many memorable moments. Our fairytale wedding!

Photography: Millay & Young Photography | Wedding Planner: Summit Soiree | Floral Design: BandB Designs | Wedding Dress: Vera Wang | Cake: Mark Estee | Bridesmaids' Dresses: J.Crew | Catering: Mark Estee | Hair: Laura Seegmiller | Calligraphy: Forget Me Not | Band: The Crocodiles | Venue: The Glenbrook Club | Groom's Cake: Delicious Designs | Linens: Roundabout Catering & Party Rentals | Rentals: Camelot Party Rentals Nevada

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
Brideside + A Discount!

Let’s talk about bridesmaid dress shopping for a moment, shall we?  That weekend when you and your besties bop around trying to find that perfect gown that totally fits your vision AND looks great on every.single.girl in your bridal party.  It starts out as fun, but after the third salon, well, you know how it goes.  Enter Brideside, the online boutique that makes shopping for bridesmaids seriously easy and fun.

With Brideside, that amazing gown is right at your fingertips.  And by “fingertips,” I mean online and ready to be shipped directly to you at home to try on.  Think designers such as Joanna August, Watters, Alfred Angelo, Donna Morgan, Jenny Yoo (and more) in hundreds of gorgeous colors and styles.  That means one happy bridesmaid after another looking completely chic on the big day.  And don’t even get me started on the fabulous customer service.  Your Brideside stylist will work with you and your bridal party to find that dress that is everything you’ve ever wanted and ship the samples to you for a laid-back + totally stress-free girl’s day at home.

So what are you waiting for, loves?  Visit the Brideside website TODAY to get started with your personal stylist.  And don’t forget this exclusive discount for SMP readers: When you buy your bridesmaid dress in February, the first $20 is on Brideside!  Use discount code “SMP20” at checkout. (Terms & Conditions: Cannot be combined with any past or future promotions. Readers must purchase bridesmaid dress at full price on or before 2/28/15. Offer does not apply to the following designers: Joanna August, Donna Morgan, Jenny Yoo.)

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Dreamy Lake Tahoe Engagement Session

I’m completely smitten with this adorable pair and I’ve shamelessly been crushing on them, and their lovable e-sesh with This Love Of Yours Photography all week long. Tangled up in twinkly lights, which happens to be symbolic for one of their first moments together decorating the high school halls, and dotted with giant pinecones, this gallery is a sweet gem of the season.

From the beautiful Bride…Lake Tahoe is a very special place for Justin and I. It’s not only where we both grew up, but it’s where we first met and fell in love. We were lucky enough to meet in high school and had that fall-really-hard-for-you-first-love that you never get over. I knew then that we were meant to be, but college in different states separated us and we decided to let each other fully experience that time in our lives. 6 years later and we still had not forgotten about each other. After all those years we finally reconnected (in Tahoe of course) and it was as if no time had gone by. Now fast forward 11 years from when we first met and we’re engaged, living in Washington DC, and planning our wedding in Napa, CA!

For our engagement session there was no question that we wanted to go back to where it all began! We were lucky enough to have our high school prom at the beautiful Edgewood Tahoe Golf Club so we decided the lakefront course was not only a BEAUTIFUL setting for the romantic style and feel we were looking for, but it also holds a special place in our hearts.

We wanted photos in both the woods and on the lake so we decided to do a fall look (scarf, boots, and plaid) in the woods and then dress it up with me in a peach dress and Justin in grey slacks (our wedding colors) for a glam session on the dock overlooking the lake and mountains.

Lucky for us it was a beautiful fall day and as we posed for photos we were able to enjoy the sun setting over the lake. After the sun set, we changed back into our first outfit to snap some shots entangled in Christmas lights. Not only did they make for cute pictures, but the Christmas lights are symbolic to us because they’re what brought us together. We first met when we were paired up to decorate our high school for the holidays. When we broke an entire box of lights it literally broke the ice!

Our photographers, Erika + Michael of This Love of Yours Photography, absolutely brought our vision to life; capturing two people in love in the place that they love the most!

Photography: This Love of Yours Photography | Hair & Makeup: Lauthr Salon | Wedding Venue: Edgewood Tahoe

Romantic Desert Engagement Session

Something about the dessert always stands out to me. Maybe its the stark beauty of barren landscape, or the warm hues of red and orange offset by green succulents and cloudless blue skies. Or, in this case, a beautiful floral crown from Flora Couture and cakes from Shanna Cakes help elevate the scene as well. Either way, huge swoon alert for Paris Mountain Photography‘s pictures of the day.


Colors
Styles
Romantic

From Paris Mountain Photography… Emily and Ryan are residents of Las Vegas! Ryan is an MMA fighter like his dad Randy Couture who is an MMA Champion and stars in The Expendables with Sylvester Stallone! Their session took place at Valley of Fire State Park about an hour north of Las Vegas! There is nothing that compares to the red sand and amazing landscape of this place. Archel Rowling brought in several vendors to make this desert themed engagement session come to life!

Photography: Paris Mountain Photography | Flowers: Flora Couture By Floral 2000 | Wedding Dress: Bella Bridesmaid | Cake: Shanna Cakes | Makeup: Glamour Gore Makeup | Hair: Amy Williams | Cookies: Like Yumm! | Paper Goods: Aisle Bound | Shoot Location: Spring Mountain Ranch | Stylist: Archel Rowling

Desert Romance Inspiration Shoot

Keep scrolling to see what happens when J. Anne Photography and  Kristen Joy Photography meet up with some friends (like Layers of Lovely, Paper and Home, and Showboy Bakeshop)  in Las Vegas. Hint: it’s not what you’re expecting, and yes, its beyond gorgeous. The palate of light contrasting with darker neutrals proves it doesn’t have to be hot pink to pop. We’ll just say, we’re happy what happened didn’t stay in Vegas.

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Styles
Romantic

From J. Anne PhotographyWhen one of my good friends, Kristen from Kristen Joy Photography, approached me about doing a styled shoot with her during the Wedding and Portrait Photographer International convention we immediately knew what we wanted to do for the shoot. Kristen and I shoot very similarly and are drawn to the same sources of inspiration, yet we also both have our own style and help push one another beyond our comfort levels.

Immediately, we knew that we would be shooting in the desert. We know first-hand the beauty that surrounds Las Vegas as we are both wedding photographers from the area; however, we also knew what Las Vegas has to offer is rare for any other part of the country and/or world for that matter. So we wanted to be able to give photographers a chance to see the beauty outside of the glitz and glam of Las Vegas.

We were inspired by every element of the desert down to the native coyotes, barb wire fencing, and softly muted colors which were represented by a palette of neutrals mixed with an eclectic mix of jewelry, wire details, and fur blankets and throws.

Often times the desert is seen as a place for cactus, cowboy boots, and rigid heat; however, we wanted to bring some elements of glamour to our shoot in order to step outside of the rustic box the desert is known for. Some mirrored elements along with flowing florals, dramatic veils, and a bridal crown gave the shoot a touch of sophistication and some much needed romance to the often stark landscape.

Approximately 15 photographers from around the world were able to come out to the desert to join us on our shoot. They left the shoot raving about the beauty of the desert and so thankful to have been able to photograph such a beautiful group of people and details. Kristen and I were humbled by the experience of meeting and learning from so many talented photographers.

Photography: Kristen Joy Photography | Photography: J Anne Photography | Floral Design: Layers of Lovely ~ An Inspired Floral Art Studio | Stationery: Paper and Home | Hair & Makeup: Mosaic Salon | Tuxedo: Tuxedo Junction | Venue: The Desert | Cake Design: Showboy Bakeshop | Furniture Rentals & Alter Setup: The Wooden Trunk

Modern, Colorful Las Vegas Wedding

What started as a simple elopement ended in a all-out celebration dressed in modern design. With 30 family and friends to bear witness, Scheme Events and Layers Of Lovely whipped up a day that redefines notions of Las Vegas “I dos” and J. Anne Photography was there to capture each second. Hungry for more? The gallery is wedding eye candy just waiting to be swooned!

From J. Anne PhotographySometimes, life gives you lemons, and you’re supposed to make lemonade. But what happens when life hands you a beautiful couple with a wedding that is only a month away, and a team full of amazing vendors? Swoon, that’s what.

I talked to Brittney very briefly one morning, but our conversation was stalled due to my morning of school drop off, and activities with my babies. I followed up with an email later in the day, but didn’t hear back from her right away. I had only spoken to her for a few minutes, but had already learned that she thought she had booked another photographer for her wedding, but had just found out that there was a miscommunication and so her photographer was no longer available. She was heartbroken and now also frantic. I could tell immediately that she was incredibly sweet, charming, and genuine. And I wanted to shoot her wedding. So I was a bit sad not to hear back from her right away. The next day my cell phone rang. It was a number that I wasn’t familiar with, but when the area code indicated Arkansas I picked up the call. It was Mike on the other end. Brittney’s fiancé. What happened next still makes my heart skip a beat. Mike and I chatted about details very briefly, but then he said… Can you just go ahead and send me the contract? I just can’t handle hearing Brittney cry for another minute. With that, a contract was sent, and he won a place in my heart… which made me see (even from over the phone) why Brittney was so in love with this man.

Brittney and Mike chose to get ready in separate hotels, and to only see each other when she walked up the aisle to become his wife. The day was planned perfectly by Scheme Events, and Layers of Lovely created spectacular florals to welcome the new Spring wedding season!

Springtime in Las Vegas is absolutely beautiful. Away from the strip there are so many beautiful deserts, gardens, and even though it is a desert… the city is in bloom. Brittney and Mike chose to be married in a beautiful garden at Springs Preserve surrounded by their closest friends and family who had surprisingly decided to join them on their destination wedding weekend!

From The Bride…What started out as an intended elopement turned into a weekend party and wedding in Las Vegas with our family and friends. Not only did our parents and my grandparents join us, but we were also joined by about 30 of our closest friends for a great destination wedding.

The morning of our wedding, Mike and his groomsmen got together early to get dressed in his brother’s room at the Mandarin Oriental. Jodi arrived in the room right on time, and took several detail pictures of Mike with his groomsmen. Soon after, they drove out to the Strip for some action shots. I wanted some traditional photographs, but I also wanted some fun shots from the strip. Thankfully, Jodi understood my vision, including my remake of the classic “Abbey Road” album cover.

Meanwhile, the girls were getting ready in my room at the Vdara. Lori did my hair and makeup, while her assistant did the bridesmaids’ hair. As Lori added the final touches to my makeup, Jodi and her assistant, Janelle, arrived to start taking detail pictures. The girls and I headed down to the strip with Jodi and Janelle for our own fun photo shoot.

After taking pictures on the strip (and taking in a pina colada with my girls) we all drove off to the wedding venue at the Springs Preserve. Mike and I had photos taken separately with our respective families around the grounds. We decided not to have a “first look,” but instead to see each other for the first time at the ceremony.

Our ceremony was better than I could have dreamed. We had our wedding in the Garden Arboretum, which was the perfect setting, as spring native plants and flowers were just beginning to bloom. We asked the Lounge Orphans to play some of our favorite songs during the ceremony. As the wedding party walked out, the Lounge Orphans played Ingrid Michaelson’s You and I. I walked out to Canon in D with my dad. After giving my dad a handshake and a hug, Mike took my hand and led me up the steps to join the wedding party. The ceremony was wonderful, capped off by the Lounge Orphans playing our song, the Lumineers’ Hey Ho, as we walked out.

Jodi took our photos after the wedding while our guests enjoyed a cocktail hour. Our reception was held at the Springs Preserve as well. We chose to have more of an informal setting, and had various food stations instead of a sit down dinner. These stations even included a mac-n-cheese bar..our favorite food! My cake was exactly how I had imagined..and looked exactly like the picture I had supplied Brian, the baker. The Lounge Orphans also played at the reception and set the perfect mood for our guests. The evening started very relaxed, but ended with everyone singing and dancing.

After the reception, everyone was escorted away by a party bus that took us down the Strip and to the iconic ‘Welcome to Las Vegas’ sign. We took several photos with all of our family and friends and then cruised the main drag while listening to old school Cher, Journey, and Madonna. The bus took us back to the Vdara and dropped us off to begin our lives together.

Photography: J Anne Photography | Coordination: Scheme Events | Floral Design: Layers of Lovely ~ An Inspired Floral Art Studio | Cake: Retro Bakery | Ceremony Venue: Springs Preserve | Reception Venue: Springs Preserve | Lighting: Led Unplugged | Entertainment: Lounge Orphans Music | Officiant: Casual Elegance

Red Rock Inspiration Shoot in the Desert + DIY Watercolor Guest Book

Inspired by the red rocks of Las Vegas, Scheme EventsEnchanted Florist and Laura Ivanova Photography set out to craft a shoot that brings glamour to the high desert. With colors reminiscent of a gorgeous sunset (think pretty pastels and deep, shimmering copper) plus a peppering of modern decor and the prettiest watercolor DIY, this imagery is sure to inspire from the desert to the coast. 

From Scheme EventsLas Vegas is known for many things and weddings are usually at the top of the list. When thinking about weddings in Las Vegas a few cliches come to mind: drive thru’s, Elvis, poker chips, casino tables. But did you know Las Vegas also has beautiful venues in gorgeous settings and killer desert sunsets? For this photo shoot we wanted to highlight some of the best of Vegas and feature a variety of wedding trends. We took inspiration from the famous Red Rocks of Las Vegas and selected the Red Rock Country Club for their amazing views and desert setting. Sequins and watercolor may not be the first thing you’d think to pair together, but the pastel of the water color and the dark copper of the sequin linens and table runners created a glamorous effect in the desert. Glittered table numbers and a watercolor menu on each table accented a floral mix of ranunculus, dusty miller, air plants, rice flower, tulips and more! To sweeten things up, a favor of cotton candy wrapped with a copper glittered ribbon was placed on each setting. A desert table featured a watercolor cake, glass bottled drinks, pastel cotton candy, rock candy sticks and oversized macarons. Sweet on the eyes and the taste buds!

Materials

18 x 24 stretched canvas
Watercolor paints
Brushes – we used flat brushes between 1⁄4” and 3⁄4” wide
Glass of water
Permanent marker
Easel

instructions

Watercolors are a very forgiving medium, if you feel like the color looks too saturated just take your brush to mix in a little water and it will lighten up instantly. There are no such things as mistakes with this art form so don’t be afraid to pick up that brush, after all, it’s a special piece of your wedding and unique to the two of you!

step-1Create a wash using a mixture of pigments from the palette. This will be the header for your canvas – make sure it’s big enough to fit what you’d like to write on it, this can be your names or initials and your wedding date.

step-2Let the canvas dry for 24 hours before writing on it. Permanent markers come in so many different colors you can choose a few to match your color scheme, just make sure it’s dark enough to read against the watercolors.

step-3At your reception, prop your canvas up on an easel next to a table with the brushes, watercolor paints, permanent markers and a glass of water.

step-4Ask your guests to pick up a brush, add a stroke of color and sign next to it with a permanent marker. At the end of the night your friends and family will have created a masterpiece, the perfect wedding keepsake to hang on your wall!

Photography: Laura Ivanova Photography | Wedding Gown: Bella Bridesmaid | Reception Venue: Red Rock Country Club Weddings | Bridesmaids Dresses: Style The Aisle | Hair And Makeup: Amelia C & Co | Cake & Macaroons: Gimme Some Sugar | Cotton Candy: B Sweet Candy Boutique | Cotton Candy Favors: Welcome Bag Shoppe | Floral: Enchanted Florist TN | Planning, Coordination, Design: Scheme Events | Rentals: Rsvp Party Rentals | Sequin Table Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Sequin Table Runners: Koyal Wholesale

Romantic Destination Wedding at Legends Ranch

This destination wedding is bringing the indoors out. From the vintage church pews decorating an open air ceremony to the light-filled portraits by Chelsea Nicole Photography, it all makes for a day so incredibly romantic. And the many pretty details like a blanket of florals by Layers Of Lovely and the simple beauty of a naked cake by Peridot Sweets certainly add to that romance. Click here for more.

 

 

From Chelsea Nicole PhotographyThis wedding is a favorite of mine and I’m so excited to share it. It’s intimate and sweet, yet full of pretty details that made both the coordinator and my team all swoon when walked on the scene. There’s was lots of a special touches that you’ll see below, but one of my favorites was the bride’s cathedral length veil… It was her mothers and has been in the family for 30 years. Her sister also wore it at her wedding and it will eventually be passed down to their children).

From The Bride…Kyle and I met in January 2006 while acting as wingmen for our friends who just started dating. The chemistry was instant! By the January 2007, we were living together and had adopted the first of our two furry children.

Kyle proposed while we were traveling in Europe in 2011. He had been carrying the ring for 3 weeks and across 3 countries before he popped the question in Cinque Terre, Italy.

We wanted a fun and informal wedding where the focus was spending quality time with our family and friends. We loved the idea of incorporating a holiday into the celebrations; it was just a matter of whether the destination was 2 hours out of Sydney or 14. We decided on Las Vegas as Kyle’s brother lives there and it would be a great way to bring all his family together. Also because it is Vegas! What an awesome time all our family and friends would have in the lead up to the wedding.

Kyle and I are more non traditional and wanted an outdoor venue with a relaxed ceremony that would compliment our personalities. I was so happy when I came across Legends Ranch. It was perfect as it was only 15 minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the Strip but felt like we were miles away at a peaceful and intimate ranch. It was another side of Vegas that not many people knew existed.

For the details, we kept the DIY to a minimum to maintain my sanity. My mum, aunty and sister made our antipasto and cheese platters which look very appetizing and tasted just as good as they looked. My bridesmaids and I made the table numbers for Le Cirque and put together the blanket bonbonniere the night before the wedding. I wouldn’t recommend anyone leaving DIY that late but we were lucky enough to only have to make 4 table numbers and tie 25 blankets otherwise I might have been in trouble. The frames, wooden boards and blankets were all brought over from Australia. I wore my Mum’s cathedral length veil which was 30 years old. It is very special to our family as now it was been worn by my mum, my sister and myself. Hopefully it will be something that can be passed on to our children.

It was really important to Kyle and I to make our family and friends feel like they were really part of the day. Our celebrant Angie suggested we include a ring warming ceremony. Angie wrote such a beautiful, personalized ceremony and the ring warming was the icing on the cake. It was great to see all our family and friends each giving their well wishes. With many of our guests traveling to Vegas for the first time, we wanted to include an experience that would showcase the glitz of the Strip. We couldn’t go past the open top double decker bus which transported our guests from Legends Ranch to Le Cirque at the Bellagio. It was great to see everyone taking pictures, singing along to the songs and getting into the party mood.

Kyle and I wrote our own vows and I must say I was a bit apprehensive about Kyle as I had to keep prodding him to get stuck in and send them to Angie. When I heard them for the first time on our wedding day, I was left speechless. It was definitely my favorite moment. I think how I felt on the day can be summed up in one moment, when I arrived at Legends Ranch before the ceremony, just before Kyle or the guests had arrived. I realized then, when I saw everything perfect, exactly like I imagined it in my head, that after two years research and planning the day had finally arrived! It was just surreal.

After everything is over, all you have are your memories and your pictures. Kyle and I joke that we have the worst memories so choosing the right photographer was very important to us. Take the time to find someone whose style you love and who you click with, you will be spending the whole day with them! Chelsea from Chelsea Nicole Photography has the best energy and made us feel so comfortable; the day wouldn’t have been the same without her.

Also hire a day of coordinator. I would have been a wreck if it wasn’t for the help of our awesome wedding coordinators Juliet and Angelica from Green Orchid Events. While technically they were day of coordinators, they were helping me with suggestions on vendors and answering all my questions right from the first meeting. They set up all the details at Legends and even did the little thing like going out to buy bottled water for our drink station when they realized there wasn’t any available on site. I never even knew there was a problem. I know that if they weren’t there, my family and I would have been sweating the small details rather than enjoying the day.

Photography: Chelsea Nicole Photography | Coordination: Green Orchid Events | Floral Design: Layers of Lovely ~ An Inspired Floral Art Studio | Wedding Dress: Brides of Sydney | Cake: Peridot Sweets | Invitations: Starry Night Paperie | Reception: Bellagio | Bridesmaid Dresses: Lela Rose | Hair And Makeup: Amelia C & Co | Officiant: Peachy Keen Unions | Ceremony & Cocktails: Legends Ranch | Vintage Rentals: Archive Rentals | Vintage Rentals: Chelsea Nicole Photography

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Desert Elopement in Dry Lake Bed + WIUP

Another week has come to a end, lovelies. But before we head out we wanted to leave you with this breathtaking elopement. This couple traveled all the way from Canada to elope in Las Vegas, but skipped the strip and headed for dry lake bed outside of town, managing to catch the sun just as it was setting. This of course made for some stunning images by Kirsten Joy, and you can relish in the full gallery here.

Colors
Settings
Lakeside
Styles
Romantic

From Kirsten Joy PhotographyLet me set the scene- A gorgeous night, March 19, 2014, on a desert dry lake bed with only your two closest friends and the one you are about to marry. This is the only way Tessa and Bruno saw themselves getting married. Tessa is a wedding photographer herself in Calgary, Canada and didn’t want to go through the guest lists and regular wedding to-do’s. And the two are always up for an adventure (going snowboard, surfing, hiking). So they decided they would elope in Las Vegas. They didn’t want the cheesy drive through though, they wanted the romantic soft colors and peaceful scene.

The bride and groom found their wedding rings on a Etsy site (Joan of Engaged Jewelry). Then Tessa hand made her dress and they were headed to Vegas only telling their two closest friends who came with them, the rest of the family would be completely surprised.

From the Bride…Bruno and I had been together over seven years when he proposed in May at the top of our local ski hill, and we had started planning and saving for a wedding for the summer of 2015. As a wedding photographer myself, I secretly liked the idea of eloping and avoiding the stress and planning for a big wedding, and a few weeks ago Bruno and I were talking about our plans and he was into the idea too – we could elope, make a trip out of it, and be married.

Once we’d decided to elope, Vegas was an easy choice; I’d never been and thought it would be awesome to get married on my first trip there. We asked our two best friends to come with us, and started planning. Though, we were getting married in Vegas, we didn’t want a cheesy-Elvis-drive-through-chapel wedding; we liked the idea of being out in the desert with no one else around and the beauty of the surrounding to take our breaths away.

Of course, great photos were a priority for me, and Kristen’s work was exactly the style I love. I wanted romantic, soft and peaceful moments captured. When I saw sessions she’d done in the desert at sunset I was sold.

Even when eloping there’s a lot to do, especially when planning from another country, (We’re from Calgary, AB) and Kristen was a huge help in helping figure out the location, timing, and recommending vendors.

Before we left home we found Bruno’s suit at a local boutique, had our rings made by a local jeweler, and I ended up MAKING MY OWN DRESS right before we left. Everything else we bought in Vegas the day before our wedding.

I Face-timed my mom & sister right before we left for the ceremony, to break the news to them (they were shocked and very happy) and then we drove out of Vegas to a dry lake bed for the ceremony. It was short & sweet & perfect: just us in the desert at sunset. We had time to soak in the moments and really enjoy our first hours together as a married couple.

After photos, champagne, cigars, wine, & more photos, our best friends/witnesses took us for an amazing dinner, and then we wandered around the strip playing “drink when a stranger says congrats”. The next day we shared our news with Bruno’s family, then hit the road to drive to Utah for our Honeymoon – snowboarding in Park City.

The whole thing was perfect, and “us”, we’re so happy to be married and with the wedding we chose.

Photography: Kristen Joy Photography | Floral Design: Enchanted Florist TN | Rings: Joan Of Engaged Jewelry | Groom's Attire: Espy Calgary | Officiant: Peachy Keen Unions | Hair Stylist/ Makeup Artist: Your Beauty Call | Las Vegas Dry Lake Bed: Church Of Evangelical Faith

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ONGOING GIVEAWAYS

Elizabeth Cole Earrings from Brideside
Enter the Invisalign Pin to Win Sweepstakes
Enter to win $250 in stationery from Postable

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This week’s DISCOUNTS…
Fattie Pie
Free sample from Shine Wedding Invitations
Free  20-page 8×11 hard cover guest book from Shutterfly
Vino Backyard Designs
Squarespace
Zola

For our California brides… Discounts from Paperwhites Photography.

For our Mid Atlantic brides… Discounts from Femina Photo + Design.

For our New England brides… A special offer from Hyatt Regency Cambridge.

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And WINNERS…

Congratulations to grand prize winner Mary Seiler, Weddington Way’s recent giveaway, along with Runners up Diana Godt and Denise Rea.
Big congrats to Myswetiepiepie and Eden Theodora! You will receive gift cards from Target.