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This 4-Day Celebration in NYC is BEYOND

Saying “I do” to the one you love is always amazing, but saying “I do” in a fabulous 4-day celebration? That’s what we call beyond.  Beginning with a lake cruise in Central Park and wrapping up with a stunning party overlooking the Hudson, these grade school sweeties (insert “ahhh” here) did it right. Press play on the film from With This Ring Wedding Films to soak in every beautiful moment.

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From With This Ring Wedding Films… Once in a while a wedding comes along that’s so epic, so grandiose, and so much fun that we can’t wait to share it! We spent four days filming in New York with Preksha and Ankit and put together this same-day edit to screen on Saturday, the evening of their wedding reception.

We spent the afternoon of day one in Central Park on the lake and enjoyed Ankit’s Mehndi in the evening. Day two saw us covering Preksha’s Mehndi in the morning and their Sangeet reception later that night at the elegant Chateau Briand, and day three featured their super colorful Turmeric ceremonies and a little filming at Preksha and Ankit’s middle school (where they met – how cute is that?). They tied the knot on the fourth day at the Hyatt Regency on the Hudson backed by the expansive NYC skyline and celebrated into the evening as the newly minted Mr. and Mrs. Butala!

So many vendors came together to make this amazing wedding weekend perfect, including the experienced team of Jay Seth Photography and rockstar event planners Reema and Kurien of RB Event Design.

Photography: Jay Seth Photography | Cinematography: With This Ring Wedding Films | Event Planning: RB Event Design | Venue: Hyatt Regency on the Hudson | Venue: Chateau Briand

The One Trunk Show You Seriously Can’t Miss

You know we’re never ones to turn down a fab trunk show, so when Designer Loft let us know they’d be celebrating 10 full days with the newest Eddy K. Dreams Collection, you better believe we marked our calendars for a little gown perusin’ on August 19th – 28th.  Think flattering silhouettes + gorgeous plunging backs, all with side of romance AND a 10% discount. We’ll see you there.

From luxurious lace fabrics to breathtaking illusion bodices to a classic meets modern aesthetic, the new Eddy K. Dreams Collection is everything you’ve ever wanted in a wedding gown… and sooo much more. I’m talking gowns that will leave all of your guests talking from the VERY moment you step into the room, whether you plan on saying “I do” high above the city in a contemporary celebration or you’re tying the knot in a sweet garden setting straight out of a Jane Austen novel.  In other words? Designer Loft’s Eddy K Dreams Collection Trunk Show is THE place to find that perfect gown.  We promise.

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Call Designer Loft TODAY to book your appointment for the Eddy K Dreams Collection Trunk Show happening on August 19 – 28, 2016.  Seriously, don’t miss your chance to scope out these lovely designs for a 10% Trunk Show discount. You can thank us later, my friends.

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A Farmers Market Proposal Turned Elegant Lakeside Wedding

If I were to plan my wedding all over again, I would show my vendors this wedding as inspiration and leave it at that. Because Jennifer and Nick truly planned a picture perfect day. Drenched in pretty pink hues and sweet kisses, Heather Payne Photography was behind the lens capturing every sweet moment and we’ve got it all waiting for you (and/or your vendors, *cough*cough*) in The Vault!

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From Heather Payne PhotographyJennifer & Nick married in an intimate venue in Albany, New York with some of their closest family and friends. After our initial conversation together, I knew they were truly special and had the sweetest love story to tell. We met for their engagement photos months before in Massachusetts where we were able to get a true sense of just how sweet their story actually was. Their giggles and genuine expressions for each other was so joyful to capture.

Their wedding took place in Albany, New York at a venue on Crooked Lake. It was a windy and cold day in March, but the sun was so warm and everyone’s spirits were so radiant. The setting was very elegant indoors and the nature of the outdoors was so picturesque with willow trees and perfect little hidden pockets around the lake. Jennifer and Nick’s envisioned their day to feel calm, romantic and ethereal. Knowing the “feeling” of their day, we were able to really create some beautiful images that best represented their style and aesthetic. Jennifer had two beautiful dresses that she wore during the ceremony and reception. Her long cathedral veil blew so gracefully in the wind and wrapped around them during their first look where Nick saw Jennifer for the first time.

From The Bride…I was starting intern year as a pediatric resident in a hospital, and I had just moved in Albany. I wanted to get to know some people, so I joined a christian medical group at the hospital, and that’s where I met him. Initially, when we met, I guess he was attracted, so he tried to invite me over for group gatherings. The first group gathering, we were all going to a museum 45 minutes away, so he texted me to ask if I could give him a ride since he had just finished an overnight call as a surgery resident. So I agreed, and thats when we just started texting a lot. When I picked him up, it ended up we were the only two in the car so we had some really deep conversations. Very quickly we started talking more and more on the phone, and hanging out. Initially I was a little weary because we were talking so much and I was becoming attracted as well, but I wasn’t sure of his feelings for me. However, within 2 weeks of meeting each other, we confessed our feelings and started dating!

Nick proposed by taking me to the farmer’s market that morning, then blindfolding me and driving to the very museum that we had gotten to know each other. On the walk there, he played some songs he downloaded on an iPod and eventually when we got to the terrace, he played the soundtrack version of “I love you…For sentimental reasons” and we slow danced while he sang softly in my ear. There were a lot of random people around. Then he got down on one knee and proposed!

Photography: Heather Payne | Floral Design: Party With Mia | Wedding Cake: Coccadotts Cake Shop | Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas | Bride's Shoes: Caparros | Hair & Makeup: VickyC5 | Groom's Attire: Hugo Boss | Venue: Old Daley on Crooked Lake | Bride's Bracelet: Lord And Grey Bridal | Bride's Headpiece: BHLDN | Bride's Necklace: BHLDN | Bride's Veil: Nordstrom | Bridesmaids' Robes: Foxblossom Co. | Live Music: Joanne Nguyen & Ben Lee | Reception DJ: Events by Cool Cat | Wedding Dress "Ceremony" & "Reception": BHLDN

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A Skyline Soiree That’ll Sweep You off Your Feet

A stunning soiree complete with crazy cool skyline views? Count us in. Because this incredibly chic day has got all that and more. Complete with a beautiful ceremony where guests warmed their weddings bands with a silent wish, 4Eyes Photography captured it all to share and it’s waiting for you in The Vault!

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From The Bride…Junior high. 1996. Girl sees boy and says to herself, “I’m going to marry that boy one day.” Twenty years later, it actually happened. Don’t get it confused…we are not high school sweethearts. I laid eyes on him that fateful day in junior high and that was it. Period. End of story as we knew it. We would continue to live our separate lives all throughout high school, college, and into busy adulthood. It wasn’t until years later, on one chilly May evening in 2009, that this girl and that boy would finally find themselves at the same Memorial Day barbecue (thanks to the mutual friend gods, and fate, and destiny, and perfect timing). He gave me his sweatshirt because I was cold. The rest is history. Mike proposed to me on a park bench, under the Spanish moss, on a lazy Saturday afternoon in Savannah, Georgia. A year and a half later, on January 16th, 2016 we were married at The Foundry in Long Island City, New York.

Everyone thought we were crazy to plan a January wedding in New York. “What about the weather?” they said. “What will you do if there is an epic snowstorm and none of your guests show up?” they asked. My response, “It will be the most perfect day ever.” And it was. From the delicious food, to the amazing band, not to mention the fabulous décor, the fifty-degree weather, all of our favorite people, my glorious two dollar chargers from Bed Bath and Beyond, and the two best photographers on the planet to capture every moment the day was everything we had envisioned and more.

My most vivid memory comes moments before I was about to walk down the aisle. Peeking my head out of the bridal suite, watching my bridesmaids make their way down the stairs in all of their different gold sparkle dresses, listening to the music we picked being played live, feeling the love of all our favorite people in one place to celebrate us, standing next to my mom, and finally seeing Mike patiently waiting for me at the altar caused me to let out a squeal of complete satisfaction that was heard by all of our guests. I strongly believe, it was that excited squeal of joy that set the tone for the rest of our night.

Our ceremony was filled with laughter, tears, and lots of love. Our brilliant officiant T.J. suggested a ring warming. During the ceremony our rings, tied together with ribbon, were passed around to each of our guests giving them the opportunity to warm our wedding bands with their love, make a silent wish, ask a blessing, or offer a prayer for us as we embark on this new journey. Aside from being pronounced husband and wife, this was my favorite part of the ceremony.

Our cuisine was inspired by winter and our love of comfort food. Picture passed mac and cheese bites, bacon and peanut butter crackers, grilled cheese with tomato soup shooters, and barbecue pulled chicken on mini waffles. Red wine braised short ribs for dinner. For dessert, Chef Rossi’s famous Oreo Crack and Fruit Loop Krispies to accompany our Momofuku Milk Bar cake. And we cannot forget about Mama Rossi’s late night pizza bagels (those were quite the hit).

The music was a mix of old and new. Our guests packed the dance floor and boogied down to songs by Otis Redding, The Temptations, Frank Sinatra, The Isley Brothers, Coldplay, Michael Buble, Bruno Mars, Rhianna, and Michael Jackson just to name a few. I personally wanted to hear Remix to Ignition by R. Kelly, but when the night ended with everyone shouting, “ONE MORE SONG, ONE MORE SONG!!” my soul was satisfied.

The décor was inspired by my engagement ring. Gold and sparkly. Along the way, we threw in some hints of deep purple, white, sage green, and pale pink. Honestly, there were points at which I swear my florist Pola was living in my brain. She understood and was able to execute my vision flawlessly. Vintage gold vases, candles of all shapes and sizes EVERYWHERE, lush garland running down the tables and woodland princess style flower crowns for me and my ladies to wear as we partied the night away.

Ironically, the most significant and meaningful part of our décor was actually quite simple. A sprig of rosemary was placed on top of the memory card at each place setting in honor of Mike’s mother, Rosemary. Her passing has left a huge hole in Mike’s heart and I knew that the hole would feel even bigger on this day. It was in this small detail, in the spirit of love that Mike and I have for each other, and in the blessings given to us by our family and close friends that we were able to feel her presence all throughout our special day.

Stay true to your vision no matter what people have to say about it. Enjoy every second of the planning process and know when it’s time to let go and allow the universe (or your fabulous month-of coordinator) take charge. Sneak in as many special quiet moments with your groom as possible. Have fun and be present.

Photography: 4Eyes Photography | Event Planning: Exquisite Affairs Productions | Floral Design: Rosehip Social | Wedding Dress: Pronovias | Cake: Momofuku Milk Bar | Invitations: J&D Invitations Etc | Bride's Shoes: Christian Louboutin | Catering: The Raging Skillet | Makeup: Flawless By JM | Hair: Bridal Beauty Co. | Calligraphy: Sea Calligraphy | Lighting: Universal Light And Sound | Band: Silver Arrow Band | Venue: The Foundry | Rentals: Broadway Party Rentals

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A Glamorous Ballroom Affair at the Iconic Plaza Hotel

Old New York charm meets modern glamour in this classic gold and white wedding at the landmark Plaza Hotel in Manhattan. Making the venue even more special for this stylish couple was the fact that the bride’s parents were also married there years before! See it all captured by the talented Brian Dorsey Studios in The Vault!

From Brian Dorsey StudiosWhile in college, the Bride, a native New Yorker, met her Midwestern man one snowy evening in West Philadelphia at trivia night. Destiny revealed itself as they begin to realize that their paths had previously crossed without their knowledge; the bride met the groom’s sister at summer camp, and went to high school with the groom’s brother-in-law years before the couple first laid eyes on each other! On a picture perfect day at the Central Park Boat Pond, the groom proposed as a miniature motorized boat sailed by asking his Bride to marry him.

“Be really present. Go through each moment, like your first look, without thinking about what’s coming next.” – solid advice from our beautiful bride. Her Plaza wedding seemed like deja vu to her parents, who had married there years before her. Family is everything to this bride, who cherished a morning alone with her immediate crew – mom, dad, sister and brother – as they got coffee and even worked out before the wedding, almost as though it were any other day! DeJuan Stroud’s expertise helped to modernize such the classic space with paper flower decal accents that were carried throughout the evening…from the escort card display to a cascading backdrop on the stage behind the band. That stage turned out to be one of this bride’s most memorable moments. Towards the end of the night, the band came down into the crowd, and the newlyweds got up and looked out into a sea of loved ones – with hanging lights reminiscent of a starry night above them, they finally took in their whole party as they scanned the room “…and we’ve got the pictures to prove it!”

Photography: Brian Dorsey Studios | Cinematography: Hart Pictures | Event Planning: Gourmet Advisory | Wedding Dress: Ines Di Santo | Cake: Sylvia Weinstock | Stationery: EAF Fine Papers | Bride's Shoes: Aquazzura | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Lighting: Bentley Meeker | DJ: Total Entertainment- Soul Connection | Band: Element Music | Venue: The Plaza Hotel | Floral Design + Event Design: Dejuan Stroud | Sneaker Customization: Thee Queen Of Bling, Etsy

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NYC’s Pretty Parks + One Cute Pup Make This E-Shoot a Winner

New York City may be the epicenter of the world but I’m pretty sure when you add in an adorable pup, they still take center stage. Case in point: this engagement shoot by Angela Newton Roy. Strolling through Central Park and Madison Square Park with their Zoe, these cuties kissed and cuddled and we get to gaze upon all the sweet results. See it all in our Vault right here!

From Angela Newton Roy Photography… Madison Square Park is a special place to Julie and Steve. At the beginning of their relationship, when Julie was living in Manhattan and Steve was living outside Philadelphia, he would come visit her in NYC. They would often take walks around Julie’s neighborhood, spending time with Julie’s pup Zoe, leading them to Madison Square Park. This neighborhood became an integral part in their love story, and so they knew right away they wanted to come back here for their engagement session. We spent the afternoon walking Zoe around Madison Square Park, and then headed up to their second favorite location, Central Park, to catch the last of the gorgeous NYC summer light.

Photography: Angela Newton Roy Photography | Makeup: Sephora | Hair: The Dry Bar Salon | Attire: Ann Taylor | Location: Madison Square Park | Location: Central Park

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A Classic Ballroom Affair Done Oh-So-Right… With a Little Help from Uber

Your wedding day? FILLED with unexpected twists and turns.  And for this darling duo those unplanned moments happened to include the threat of a hurricane AND broken down transportation.  Yep, they missed their cocktail hour stranded on the side of the highway, but one call to Uber later and they were celebrating in a beautiful ballroom with their loving friends and family.  See it all captured by Amy Rizzuto in THE VAULT, then press play on the sweet film from ESU Events.

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From Amy Rizzuto Photography… Francesca and Alex were married in October in one of the most romantic cities in the world. Francesca got ready at her parents’ house in Connecticut while Alex prepared for the day in their NYC apartment.  Francesca popped the champagne with her bridesmaids while Alex and his groomsmen sipped on Johnny Walker Blue.  At 3pm the couple said “I do” at St. Francis Xavier church before heading to the New York Public Library for some pretty portraits.  The iconic steps made the perfect backdrop for some classic and romantic images and our time there was one of my favorites of the day.  Francesca and Alex ended the evening by dancing the night away at the Greentree Country Club.  Soft candlelight filled the room and confetti fell all around them as they celebrated their first night as husband and wife.  Thank you Francesca and Alex for giving me the opportunity to capture your beautiful day.

From the Bride… Our wedding was nothing I expected the day to be like, but wound up being more than I could have ever dreamed! What we imagined as a beautiful end of summer type day, turned out to be a mercury retrograde of events which included the threat of a hurricane blowing through NYC and our wedding party’s bus breaking down on the side of the highway. The bride and groom had never been more excited about an UBER coming to the rescue than the one that picked them up on the side shoulder of I-495!

Our love story begins in New York City – meeting through the bride’s cousin who is married to the groom’s best friend. We knew each other for years before connecting one-on-one. They say, you never know you who are going to fall in love with, he or she could be right under your nose, and there he was!  It only took 3 dates for us to know that we would become each other’s forever.

After three years of dating, Alex proposed to me while on a beach in Block Island, surrounded by the island’s beautiful cliffs. It was romantic and perfect.

The wedding process was relatively easy for a person that knew what they wanted from the start. The main goal of our wedding was to enjoy the day as husband and wife, and to make sure our guests walked away from the night with amazing memories that lived on – not just an ordinary wedding. A real party!!

Being both from Italian families, there were a lot of expectations to meet, food (and an abundant amount of food) being at the top of the list!  Alex and I had to find a venue that accommodated at least 300 guests and matched a laundry list of credentials. We wanted a modern ballroom wedding and initially wanted the reception to be in the city since we were getting married in Union Square at St. Francis Xavier Church. Alex went to Xavier High School and the church meant a lot to him. We soon realized that a venue with amazing food, enough space (and no wall-to-wall carpeting!) was going to be very difficult to find.  We were completely blown away when we walked into this updated villa manor, Greentree Country Club, in New Rochelle, NY, that overlooks the Long Island Sound. It was breathtaking and had everything we were looking for.

We wanted our wedding to be a reflection of our personalities: traditional, but modern, with a twist of that ‘je ne sais quoi’.

We chose Amy Rizzuto to capture our day because she has a great eye and her use of natural soft lighting captivated me. She brings across an ethereal look to all her photos, almost as if there is a halo surrounding the subjects. She was amazing to work with and captured every detail of the day for us to remember… and for me to remember how much I lamented over them!

Days before the wedding, a hurricane popped up on the weather map from out of nowhere. What I had been worrying about as mercury retrograde believer, was happening!  A nor’easter of a day it was, but it all turned out to be as magical as one could dream! The day began early in Greenwich, Ct while Alex and his groomsmen got ready at our NYC apartment. We met at 3pm at St. Francis Xavier Church and tied the knot.

We took pictures at Bryant Park and then headed up to Westchester for our reception.  Not far into the ride to Greentree, we found ourselves on the side of the highway with smoke billowing out of our party bus. Stranded, we soon realized we were going to miss our cocktail hour. The transportation company said that a new party bus was on the way, but could not be sure when it would be there to get us. A groomsman opened his UBER app and ordered an UBER. Ten minutes later, an Uber pulled up to the side of the highway taking the bride, groom, maid of honor, and best man to the reception. Our Uber driver found it so amazing, that he asked to take a picture with us! It was definitely the comic relief we needed at that point.

As our guests were relishing at cocktail hour, they had no idea that what was happening to the wedding party. Our day-of-coordinator was amazing and got us ready as soon as we arrived to the venue. Twenty minutes later, our wedding party arrived. They ate a few bites (and had a few drinks!) in the wedding party suite and then we proceeded with our grand entrance. After that, we enjoyed every endless second of the night.

Looking out from our sweetheart table during dinner, Alex and I were overwhelmed with gratitude to be surrounded by the people in our lives that meant the most to us. As the night went on, everyone danced the night away as two wild families celebrated love on a confetti covered dance floor.

We saw our DJ two days later and he exclaimed, “That was an epic wedding! Top 3 weddings that I have been a part of in 20 years in the industry”.  We wanted a party to remember and we got it!

Photography: Amy Rizzuto Photography | Cinematography: ESU Events | Floral Design: Westchester Floral Decorators | Wedding Dress: Pronovias | Invitations: DIY by the Bride | Ceremony Venue: St. Francis Xavier | Reception Venue: Green Tree Country Club | Bride's Shoes: Carolinna Espinosa | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Monique Lhuillier | DJ: ESU Events | Favors: Let Love Brew Coffee Tins, custom created by the bride's parent's coffee roasting company, Bonjo Coffee Roasters | Groom's Attire: My Suit | Bridesmaid's Jewelry: J.Crew | Groom's Ring: David Yurman | Groom's Shirt + Bow Tie: Thomas Pink | Groom's Shoes: Prada | Hair Accessories: Rent The Runway | Invitation Envelope Calligraphy: Etsy Shop, Exquisite Squid | Lounge Decor: ESU Events

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This Brooklyn Wedding is the Definition of Chic

This is one duo that knows how to throw a party.  In fact, when it came time to plan their Big Day, celebrating with good food, tasty cocktails and a whole lot of dancing was tops on their list of priorities. The result? A simply chic, fun-filled soiree that was as personal as it was pretty. Fall in love with every moment captured by Weddings by Two in THE VAULT right this way.

From the Bride and Groom… Our vision was simple, we wanted to have great food (Lukas was a chef and is now a butcher), open bar and music that our guests could dance to all night.  We ultimately just wanted everyone (including ourselves) to have an amazing time. Since the Green Building was gorgeous to begin with, we were lucky that the place came alive with the addition of just a few lights.

We didn’t use a specific color palette. We only wanted our flowers to be seasonal with tons of color. Since we chose not to have a wedding party, we did not have to think of our bridesmaids or groomsmen’s outfits matching anything.

It was important for us to use the courtyard and have the ceremony outside. It was dream weather, flanked by rain the day before and the day after. We were really lucky. Leah used Pinterest ideas to incorporate photos in unique places throughout. We placed family photos inside old shutters. We also wanted Leah’s grandmother and Lukas’ grandfather, who are no longer with us, to somehow be remembered. We had photos of them on a special table with a note. Additionally, our photo booth was completely DIY, complete with props and selfie sticks.

We loved the Ketubah signing ceremony because it was a unique, private part that close family could be a part of.  We also loved dancing with friends and family (especially to Whitney Houston during our first dance).

Each table had a unique arrangement of flowers. We provided different size vases and mason jars to our florist, Sprout Home, so they could incorporate potted plants and succulents. It was stunning. Leah’s gown was from BHLDN. For the ceremony Leah wore a beaded topper (also from BHLDN) and took that off for the reception. The dress was simple but totally Leah’s style. Lukas’ suit was from Suit Supply, and he wanted something unique and colorful. He wanted a vest so he could take off the jacket when dancing but still look somewhat formal. We chose to have pies and cannoli’s for dessert (the whole thing was catered by Pies N Thighs), two dessert items that we love! Leah’s friend created a groom’s cake for Lukas with a Warrior’s theme because he is from Oakland and a huge fan. Our favors were homemade soaps (made by us) using rendered lamb fat from Lukas’ butcher shop. Don’t worry — they smelled of lavender.

Our main advice to couples planning their wedding would be to plan as much as you can, as early as you can, because things always come up last minute. Put trust in others (family, planner, photographer, caterer, florist) to do their job/task so you don’t have to do everything. Make sure you do what YOU want — its you and your husband’s wedding, no one else’s.

Photography: Weddings By Two | Event Planning: Lindsey M. Events | Floral Design: Sprout Home | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Catering: Pies N Thighs | Hair + Makeup: Channing Reinert | Groom's Attire: Suitsupply | Venue: The Green Building

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They Tied The Knot the Same Place Where They Fell In Love

I have yet to meet a Judy Pak wedding I’m not instantly obsessed with. She’s got a way with the camera and when Judy captured these two loves’ special day on Shelter Island? It was sheer perfection. From the seaside ceremony to a classic Sperry Tents, it’s nautical gone chic and the film below by Meredith Heuer = icing on the cake.

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From The Bride…Our wedding was held overlooking Coecles Harbor at the Ram’s Head Inn on Shelter Island. Having been raised on opposite coasts, it made sense for us to choose a location that held special meaning for both of us. Shelter Island captures deep sentimental values within our relationship; JP grew up vacationing there with his family and introduced it to me in the first few months of dating (it was on a dock overlooking Dering Harbor where we first said “I love you.”), and we got engaged at sunset on an antique yacht just a stone’s throw from my parents’ summer house, which they bought after spending two summers there with us.

We wanted our wedding to feel elegant, yet relaxed and fun, like Shelter Island itself. It was also really important to us to make it feel like a mini destination wedding for our guests and to give them a taste of Shelter all weekend. Guests were greeted with welcome bags with local treats – mini bottles of Wolffer Estate Rose Cider, North Fork Potato Chips, Tate’s Chocolate Chip Cookies – and a hand-drawn map of the island and weekend itinerary by our incredibly talented calligrapher and invitation designer, Karla Lim. Friday night, we held a rehearsal dinner at our favorite restaurant on the island, Vine Street Cafe, followed by welcome drinks for all of the guests at Sunset Beach. This was the perfect way to set the vibe for the weekend.

Given our love of cooking, planning began with the food. We were adamant that guests sample the produce, seafood, and in-season pies that the East End had to offer in mid-September. Local Catapano goat cheese and heirloom tomatoes, Montauk striped bass, Briermere Farm fruit pies, and a coconut cake from Sag Harbor Baking Co. were among some of the items served. At cocktail hour, we served our two favorite cocktails, an Aperol Spritz and Spiked Watermelon Agua Fresca, alongside rustic platters of cheese and charcuterie, crudites, and miniature lobster rolls, fish tacos, and pulled pork sliders.

The ceremony took place overlooking the water and cocktails followed from a higher vantage point. As guests were ushered into the tent for the reception, a light rain began to fall, which made for an even more intimate setting. Lilly-Anne Merat, a singer/songwriter who grew up in nearby Sag Harbor, and her two guitarists led the first dance with a beautiful rendition of “You Are The Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne. From there, our guests joined us and we danced to an acoustic mix of soul and Motown classics like Otis Redding and newer hits from Leon Bridges.

Annie Casale of Sag Harbor Florist created the most gorgeous florals throughout the inn and tent – loose, natural, garden picked arrangements in varying shades of white and green; the cutest, potted herbs on the cocktail tables; and garlands of silver dollar and seeded eucalyptus scattered with dahlias, ranunculus, garden roses, and white snowberries on archways, the tent entrance, and down the length of the dinner tables.

In the tent, it was very important to us to create an intimate space that felt like a dinner party at home. We used four long dinner tables spanning the length of the tent with La Tavola grey linen tablecloths and tons of candlelight. Sperry Tents sourced my favorite vine ball lights to hang over the dance floor – combined with the candles and strung bistro lights, it created the most beautiful ambient light and cast a magical glow on the sailcloth tent.

After dinner and dancing in the tent, we grabbed umbrellas and ran up the hill into the inn’s bar, where Abby and Tom, the husband and wife duo of Play Something Good, DJ’d the rest of the night – they absolutely killed it and we had the best dance party of our lives. The night ended at my parents’ house down the road with a pool party and late-night snacks.

We were so lucky to have Judy Pak capture it all in exactly the way we had envisioned. Her film photography is so natural and ethereal and she managed to get the perfect mix of posed and candid images. Meredith Heuer, an incredible photographer and videographer, created the sweetest, black and white wedding video that we still can’t stop watching. Carrie and Alex of Lyndsey Hamilton Events share our aesthetic and attention to detail and were the perfect partners to help us plan the most amazing day.

Photography: Judy Pak Studio | Cinematography: Meredith Heuer | Event Planning + Design: Lyndsey Hamilton Events | Floral Design: Sag Harbor Florist | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Cake: Sag Harbor Bakery | Invitations: Written Word Calligraphy | Bride's Shoes: Tabitha Simmons | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Catering: Ram's Head Inn | Makeup: Beauty Exchange | Lighting: Sperry Tents | DJ: Play Something Good | Ceremony Music: Lilly-Anne Merat | Venue: Ram's Head Inn | Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Party Rental Ltd. | Tent Rentals: Sperry Tents

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A NYC Engagement Session that Will Make You Believe in Magic

April showers lead to May flowers, and in the case of this gorgeous engagement session from Rebecca Yale Photography, that couldn’t be more true. After a rainy morning in Brooklyn with their sweet pup, Mochi, Dustin and Dina headed to the cherry blossoms of Manhattan for a shower of pretty pink petals. Experience all the magic now in The Vault!


From Rebecca Yale PhotographyNew York City has been having a very rainy Spring, but Dina and Dustin didn’t let grey skies get in their way and hit the streets of their favorite neighborhood, Williamsburg, with umbrella in hand for some portraits with their adorable pup, Mochi. After a coffee stop at one of the bride’s favorite local haunts, Devocion, we headed into the city to catch the last of the cherry blossoms as the cascaded around them in the rain for a truly magical moment.

From The Bride…Our story begins three years ago as a serendipitous encounter where a Brooklyn girl meets a Dallas boy at the right place at the right time. On the night we met, we happened to be at the same bar; I went for a friend’s birthday and Dustin went for his. As he tells it, everything was in slow motion. He says that as the crowd parted, there I was laughing. Though finding love was far from my mind, this was unknowingly the start of our story.

Over the course of several months, we became long-distance friends. That friendship led us to attend a wedding together for his childhood friend. Coincidentally, the groom was from Dallas and the bride was from New York, who also happened to meet at the same bar as us. Either this was a sign or maybe it was the liquid courage, but I made the first move and kissed him. After that night, our long distance friendship became a long distance relationship. Long distance is not for the faint of heart, but when it’s real, it’s worth the work. 18 months later, and after countless flights, late-night calls, FaceTime, and hellos and goodbyes, he proposed last May where we first said “I love you.” Dustin was so nervous, he forgot to take the ring out of the box and just handed me the box instead. So he had to get back down on one knee, and try again.

Last spring, I came across Rebecca Yale’s Instagram and fell in love with her work, especially her utterly romantic pictures with the cherry blossoms. I knew I wanted to reach out to her and began to follow her, even before getting engaged. We had to wait a year for the cherry blossoms to return, and Rebecca made it so worth the wait.

Photography: Rebecca Yale Photography | Bride's Shoes: Nike | Engagement Ring: Tiffany & Co. | Hair + Makeup: Sachiko Yanase | Groom's Attire: J.Crew | Bride's Accesories: Kate Spade | Bride's Dress: Madewell | Bride's Dress: Aritzia | Bride's Purse: Chanel | Bride's Stilettos: Stuart Weitzmen | Groom's Shoes: Cole Haan | Groom's Watch: Rolex | Location: Williamsburg NY | Nails: Emi Aoki | Silk Ribbons: Silk and Willow

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5 Reasons Why Yacht Weddings are Awesome

Listen up, loves. We know choosing a wedding locale isn’t always easy (read: it’s insanely difficult), so today we’re teaming up with our friends over at The Duchess to make things a little bit simpler. Think of it as a gentle nudge in the right direction with our fave reasons why yacht weddings are so very, very awesome. Get ready to set sail for the day of your dreams and dive in below.

OH-SO-ELEGANT

We all want to say “I do” in high style and the experts over at The Duchess will most definitely make that vision a reality with seriously stunning hardwood dance floors, full-service bars for cocktail sippin’ and beautiful contemporary decor at every corner.  I mean, this is the wedding of your dreams on the high seas and it should be all sorts of elegant.

UNIQUE, UNIQUE, UNIQUE!

You and your love aren’t like any other duo you know, so shouldn’t your wedding be as unique as you are? With a wedding on The Duchess, you’ll be treating your guests to a night unlike any they’ve EVER experienced, all while floating on the crystal blue ocean waters.  Think climate controlled interiors, a state-of-the-art sound system and outdoor furniture for lounging under the stars.  Treating your guests to a wedding of a lifetime has never been easier… or more fun.

 

A TOUCH OF NATURE

One of the best ways to tie the knot? Surrounded by nature.  But that doesn’t mean you have to trek through the mountains with your loved ones to do it. With a wedding on The Duchess, you can breathe in the fresh air and surround yourself with beautiful blue waters, all while rockin’ those sky high heels you LOVE.  It’s a win-win, my friends… star gazin’ included.

BREATHTAKING VIEWS

And speaking of breathing in the fresh air… the views from The Duchess are insanely amazing.  Think the New York City skyline amazing, with 360 degrees of your fave city adding that extra touch of glamour to your evening.  Not to mention that The Duchess’ newly built second deck is MORE than perfect for soaking it all in.

INTIMATE SETTING

Whether you’re planning on a small gathering of just your nearest and dearest or a larger affair of 400, setting sail on The Duchess guarantees an intimate celebration with no outside distractions allowed. Yep, no resort guests, tourists or other weddings will distract from your moment and, well… that’s just awesome.

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Contact The Duchess TODAY to learn more about their fabulous wedding celebrations… and don’t forget to ask about hosting your rehearsal dinner or cocktail party at their sister property, Fish Bar.  Happy sailing, loves!

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Photography: Allan Zepeda + I Do Weddings

Coffee + Cherry Blossoms + Puppies?! The Most Romantic New York City Engagement Session Ever!

If I were to plan out my perfect day it would look a lot like this lovely engagement session from Matoli Keely Photography. From the cutest stroll in Central Park, to blossom covered kisses, to a casual coffee run with a pup in tow? It’s enough to daydream over. See it all in The Vault!

From The Bride To Be…I met my fiancé Josh while studying graphic design at Arizona State University. I kept seeing this cute boy pop up around campus and decided to ask if he would share his portfolio with me. Next thing I know, we are on a date over coffee and I couldn’t help but fall head over heels for him! Since then we have moved to New York City, became designers, got an adorable French bulldog, and travelled any chance we get.

Josh bought me tickets to Paris for Christmas last year and proposed in the gardens of Versailles. I asked a stranger to take our picture and when I turned around he was getting on one knee with a ring! I was so surprised, and so happy to finally say “yes”.

For our engagement photos I knew I wanted to shoot in New York. I thought it would be the perfect way to commemorate all the adventures we have had here. Our first apartment was close to Central Park, so that was our first choice. I found a tulle dress from one of my favorite brands, Needle & Thread, that was romantic and a little glam! As transplant New Yorkers we also love our fair share of rooftops, so we used the rooftop at Josh’s work for our second location. We are so happy with how it turned out!

Photography: Matoli Keely Photography | Dress: ASOS | Film Processing: PhotoVision Prints | Location: Central Park

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Tips to Look Your Best at Your Engagement Session

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This Bride’s DIY Gown is GENIUS

I’ve seen a lot of crafty brides in my day, but a beautiful bride who transformed her off the rack gown with a fabulous tulle skirt? That’s an awesome first.  Together with her handsome hubs, she celebrated their “I do’s” with the sweetest farm affair filled to the brim with rustic, DIY details.  See every moment captured amazingly by Cappy Hotchkiss Photography in THE VAULT right here.

From Cappy Hotchkiss Photography… Caitlinn is a wedding photographer in New York, a fabulous wedding photographer, and she met Brian, a handsome South African at a wedding that she was photographing in the Hudson Valley.

This was truly a DIY wedding. The bride did everything including creating her wedding dress from an off the rack strapless dress and then, with help from her grandmother, added a tulle over skirt.

She borrowed a 70-year-old jade and pearl necklace from her grandmother which she wore as a head band.

Her flowers were ordered from South Africa and mixed with local flowers and put together by a friend.

She and her friends made the flower crowns worn by the flower girls, made the flower petal cones, and her Mom and grandma made the adorable cakes which her friend decorated with wildflowers collected around the farm property.

The Guest book was a Leather handcrafted book with Map of South Africa created by “Maps on Leather” (based in Spain.)

The bouquet design was by Erin Peterson Layumas. (Erin used to be a florist, she has Liver cancer and had to stop, she created my bouquets as a favor to me. Caitlinn shot her wedding for free in 2014 due to her illness and they have become very close friends ever since.)

Photography: Cappy Hotchkiss | Cinematography: Nick DeCandio Productions | Floral Design: Adam's Fairacre Farms | Wedding Dress: BCBGMAXAZRIA | Invitations: Parcel Island (Etsy) | Necklace: Francesca's | Catering: Blooming Hill Farm | Hair + Makeup: Maria Vazquez | DJ: John Bryan | Band: Hudson Valley Bluegrass Boys | Groom's Attire: Men's Italy | Groomsmen Attire: Tates Menswear | Officiant: Reverend Marc Sabin | Ceremony Music: Shannon & Mike Townshend | Venue: Blooming Hill Farm | Earrings: Free People | Hand Fans: Couples On Cakes | Wedding Dress Belt: Billy Ella

A DIY Brooklyn Wedding Guaranteed to Make You Smile

If you’re dreaming of a wedding full of that quintessential Brooklyn charm, there’s no place quite like 501 Union, and no one to capture it quite like Readyluck. So, you’re in for quite the treat with this DIY Brooklyn day full of industrial glam details and a whole lot of love. See it all now in The Vault!

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From The Bride…I’m not one who dreamed of my wedding since grade school, so when it came time to plan, I thought I was a chill bride open to anything. Turns out I am actually a carbon copy of Sally from When Harry Met Sally: the high-maintenance pain who swears she’s low maintenance. I discovered I had all sorts of opinions about what I didn’t want—no mason jars, no colorful back lighting, no bodacious sculptures in ice—and few about what I did.

Because my fiancé Rick and I had a relatively short engagement (10 months), we were under the gun to make some fast decisions. Happily, the venue was an easy one. Gowanus’ 501 Union, just a short walk from our apartment, had an aesthetic we loved: industrial glam, cool metallic wallpaper, and the flexibility to skew vintage or modern. It really helped to pick a place with point of view, as blank-slate venue intimidated me.

I wasn’t really a fan of traditional fall colors (oranges, browns, deep greens, etc.) so a seasonal palette didn’t appeal. We initially thought we wanted gray tones with a pop of violet, because our wonderful letterpress invitations from Brooklyn’s Papel had oyster-colored print and a purple foil edge. Finding the perfect shades of gray was tough, so three months before our wedding I was totally stymied. Luckily in NYC there are so many pros who can pull something together on a dime. I hired event designer Ashley Chamblin to help refine a design plan that I could execute myself. Because Rick and I enjoyed traveling, we made that a motif, rather than a main theme that hit you over the head. Ashley also helped me settle on blush/neutrals for bridesmaid dresses, a color that suited everyone. Being a bridesmaid is a thankless job, so I kept the bridal party small so we could afford to buy everyone a dress that they would wear again. Any style was fine with me as long as it fit the color palette.

Aside from the flowers and table setting, I sourced or created most of the décor on my own. I dragged my family to flea markets in rural Ohio to find old suitcases, travel books, and vintage postcards so guests could write well wishes on them in lieu of a traditional guest book. Planning a New York wedding, you quickly get used to taking every high-end estimate and doubling it, so looking outside the tri-state area for these details helped cut costs. We also tried to use what we had. Rather than buy a welcome sign, we placed my mint-colored bike in front of 501 Union with a hand-tied bouquet to signal where the party was.

To commemorate our separate journeys and the adventures that brought Rick and I together, we sprinkled photos of us traveling with friends and family throughout the venue. Ashley suggested clipping some onto a twinkling star garland, an idea I loved, but I was determined not to have the traditional 5-point star shape (this was a wedding, not a kids birthday party). Finding the perfect burst-style garland on Etsy was a challenge but worth the hunt. When you’re DIYing, it’s easy to drown in these kinds of details. I found myself up to 2:30 am the nights before the wedding ironing our custom logo onto welcome bags or spending way too many hours scouring eBay looking for the perfect vintage toy plane. I eventually relented and rented a few tabletop travel items from Octavia & Brown, along with some great mercury glass vases. When everything came together, I think the overall effect was us—a little hodge-podge, but fun and personal.

The dress shopping process defied my expectations. We looked at several lovely boutiques in Manhattan and Brooklyn, but all the styles I thought I’d like ended up looking like window drapery on me. Despite my trepidation, we ended up at Kleinfeld at my mother-in-law’s suggestion. Yeah, it’s sort of a factory, but the fact is they have a very deep bench. I happened to get a wonderful consultant, who brought me Jayne by English designer Eliza Jane Howell. It had an elegance that my late Anglophile grandmother would have loved, plus intricate beading and sparkle I couldn’t take my eyes off of. Sold!

As the dress was a splurge, I economized on the other details of my look. I settled on some Badgley Mischka shoes with embellishments on the back that wouldn’t compete with my dress. Because I was wearing my paternal grandmother’s engagement ring and great grandmother’s stole, I finished it off some inexpensive, low-key jewelry from Nordstrom. (By the way, I can’t say enough good things about that place for noncommittal brides. They have an amazing return policy and if there are any problems with shipments they’ll overnight you new ones.)

Flowers were one of last things to be decided. I’d worked with Lilli of Mimosa Floral, and for a variety of factors out of our control, (e.g., I got food poisoning a few weeks before the wedding), our plan wasn’t finalized until the week before the wedding. That would give most girls a coronary but I trusted her talent and it came together beautifully. We decided on ivory florals alongside greenery, with pops of coral and blush. The stunning asymmetrical chuppah with jasmine vine was one my favorite touches, and I loved how Lilli juxtaposed more romantic garden roses and anemones with protea and and air plant in my bouquet. I tried to keep the table setting fairly modern and clean, with mercury glass votives and a nubby textured gray tablecloth with a little sheen to it—less Vegas, more grandma’s silver.

I’m a firm believer that no one wants to take home favors emblazoned with the bride and groom’s name or likeness. So Rick put his excellent negotiation skills to work and cut a deal to get some cool travel kits from Flight 001 at a discount for our favors. We also created some custom leather luggage tags embossed with an adventure-themed quote and used them as place cards.

Cake was a surprisingly low priority on the list. We adorned it simply with a few flowers, as the main event was the dessert truck. The beauty of our venue was that you can pull a food truck inside the garden, so we had CoolHaus serve ice cream sandwiches, which were a huge hit. Sadly, I didn’t have any because I was too busy dancing. But you can have ice cream any old day—you can’t always geek out on the dance floor with your very favorite people.

If you’re doing the hard work of DIY-ing details, make sure they’re executed exactly as you envision at the venue. In retrospect I wish I’d hired Ashley as my planner and design-focused coordinator. You will run out of time to triple-check everything the day-of, and your bridesmaids will likely be occupied helping you with other last minute details. Having someone who can advocate for your style is important. When I tried to move a piece of décor that was in the wrong spot an hour before the ceremony, I actually had one person argue that the bride told her she wanted it in that place. I was like, Um, I’m wearing a sparkly white dress—I think that makes me the bride! Crazy stuff like this happens; I also forgot to wear my veil, and the venue didn’t have a printer so I read my vows off my phone (klassy!). You just have to roll with it.

I also implore all couples to take photos before the ceremony. Not only does it let you enjoy cocktail hour with your guests (and why would you want to miss your own party?!), but also it gives you some one-on-one time with your partner you won’t have at any other point. I didn’t even realize how stressed I was from planning until I saw Rick’s teary, smiling face at the first look and felt such relief. Being with him prior to the wedding wiped away all my pent-up anxiety and put my focus back on us. He had rented a fabulous 1953 Rolls Royce that spirited us away to Red Hook for photos by the water and in front of some awesome old factories and street art. We were lucky that our photographer, Edward Winter of READYLUCK, knew all the right spots and whisked us around to the most perfect backdrops.

Which brings me to my last tip: Find vendors who put you at ease. Wedding planning is far too nerve-racking to waste time or money on people who don’t have your back. Eddie was a super-huge win on that point. He didn’t just create amazing shots. He constantly ran interference, gently herding family members into the right spots, even sticking up for the bridal party when the limo driver refused to turn down the A/C for my freezing ladies.

Favorite moment? Too many to choose! Definitely at the altar when it all became “real”—I was finally teaming up with my very favorite person on earth. Having Rick’s four kids there to support us meant everything, especially witnessing his oldest deliver a heartfelt speech and his youngest walk our tux-clad pup Luca down the aisle. I also loved that turning point when the formalities of the evening evolved into a massive dance party/family reunion, just exactly as I’d hoped!

Photography: Readyluck | Cinematography: Hello Super Studios | Event Design: Ashley Chamblin Events | Floral Design: Mimosa Floral Design Studio | Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Catering: Betty Brooklyn Catering | Makeup: Elizabeth Lerman | Hair: The Bird House | DJ: 74 Events | Venue: 501 Union

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A Love Story 30+ Years In the Making

Some love stories are worth a bit of a wait, but how about 30+ years? In this case, oh yes, still totally worth it. Because when it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be. And for these Harvard grads, their mutual love of their alma mater – and plain old fate – came into play and so they joined their lives together with this intimate, winter wedding. The Groom couldn’t keep his eyes off his leading lady and Carolina Rivera captured it all. Head to our Vault to see all the magic and read on for one love story not to be missed.

From Carolina Rivera Photographer… A winter wedding in the warmth of the mahogany wooden walls, accented by the sparkle of the golden chairs, set the tone for this intimate wedding at the Harvard Club in NYC. But the story is one to remember. Beth and Joe, both incredibly intelligent and talented, went to Harvard years ago, in the same graduating class, but never actually met… until years later when they both attended a Harvard grad event, and after marriages, children, and life happened in between, their destinies finally came together on this day.

Their wedding was set in the location where their Harvard histories would combine. With a beautiful speech by the Groom, Joe, prior to his Bride’s entrance, a traditional chuppah and glass breaking to commemorate Beth’s Jewish heritage, the presence of their children and their families, and a close personal friend and Harvard classmate officiating, this wedding was surely one to remember – along with a special aria and piano performance for the Bride’s ceremony entrance to set the tone. Beth and Joe danced their first dance, to “Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You”, a beautifully choreographed and performed dance, as Beth was once a professional ballet dancer who turned now to a practice of Aerial yoga (and in her 50’s I might add!). The night continued with plenty of mingling, laughter, and dancing, as Beth and Joe did not want to miss one single minute of their evening with friends and family. Beth’s friend Michael Weiskopf and his band The Complete Unknowns, a Bob Dylan cover band, performed.

The beautiful couple were even featured in the New York Times Vows column that tells their story even more!

Photography: Carolina Rivera Photographer | Floral Design: Spruce Florist | Wedding Dress: Le Spose di Gio | Cake: Momofuku Milk Bar | Bride's Shoes: Dolce & Gabbana | Jewelry: Roni Blanshay | DJ: Jane Elizabeth | Band: The Complete Unknowns | Venue: Harvard Club Of NYC | Chuppah: Chuppah Studio | Photography - Assistance: Karen Obrist Photography

This Rowboat E-Sesh Is the Real Life Version of ‘the Notebook’

We’re pretty much convinced that Maggie and Brian are the real-life version of Allie and Noah, because their engagement session? Pure cinematic magic. With the talented Sally Pinera behind the lens capturing their Central Park rowboat ride and sweeter than sweet stroll (across the Brooklyn Bridge no less), we’ve got every bit of beauty waiting for you to fall in love with via The Vault!

From Sally PineraLight hearted and sweet, Maggie and Brian’s NYC engagement session took place amidst the hustle and bustle of New York. Sunrise at the Brooklyn Bridge and nestled in Central Park during the sunny summer afternoon. This adorable couple took a ride on the row boat at the Central Park Boat House as they shared their love. Maggie kept her makeup and hair simple, elegant and whimsical. Her pink two piece dress was custom made just for her! We cannot wait for this couple to come to the west coast this fall for a beautiful destination wedding at Greystone Mansion!

Photography: Sally Pinera | Bridal Accessory: Maggie Wu Studio

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Tips to Look Your Best at Your Engagement Session

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Elegant Bohemian Chic Wedding by Craig Paulson Photography

Craig Paulson Photography just gets it. Case in point? His captures from Bess and Christian’s stunning celebration that took place at a restore farmhouse in Pennsylvania. Documenting every sweet kiss, first look, and awe-inspiring moment, it’s safe to say that every. single. shot. from their Big Day is frame-worthy, and we’ve every bit of pretty sitting in The Vault!

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From Craig Paulson PhotographyBess & Christian wanted their wedding to be low key and just with their family and a few best friends. They had recently purchased a GORGEOUS farm in Pennsylvania and worked hard to restore it for their wedding the next summer. With help of 5th Avenue weddings, Bess was able to create her dream day at home, complete with a Karen Willis Holmes gown, fresh spring florals and a host of dogs to help spread the good energy.

Photography: Craig Paulson Photography | Wedding Dress: Karen Willis Holmes | Venue: Private Estate | Event Design + Coordination: 5th Avenue Weddings

Not Your Average Warehouse Wedding

Oh, how I love a couple who thinks outside the box. No surprise, the bride is the owner of an amazing online art gallery and that love of aesthetics perfectly translated to the wedding day. Think mismatched chairs, an asymmetrical ceremony arch, cheeky paper goods, and a warehouse setting with an industrial vibe. Kate Ignatowski photographed and we’re totally obsessed.

From Kate Ignatowski… Tze is the owner and founder of Uprise Art, an online art gallery based in New York City. So I wasn’t surprised at all to see her bring the same creativity and attention to detail to her wedding as she does her business. She especially spent a lot of time personalizing her paper suite, which included “west” and “east” coasters since her and Geoff are from opposite coasts.

The space itself was full of character, from the mismatched ceremony chairs to all the unique nooks and crannies. The asymmetrical ceremony arch full of white flowers and greenery added a softness to the industrial space. And the reception tables were set up to take full advantage of the grand space. Long tables were decorated with white florals, greenery and neutral runners. And Tze took especially great care in the cake toppers, which she hand painted and picked out to be proportional to her and Geoff’s significant height difference!

Upon their entrance, Tze and Geoff entertained their guests with an Argentine tango dance. Tze is a long time dancer and owner of a dance company in NYC, but, after months of practicing, Geoff’s ability delighted everyone! It was a wonderful day and I felt so lucky to be there capturing it all.

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Photography: Kate Ignatowski Photography | Cinematography: Love + Brain Films | Coordination:Jeanne Stark | Floral Design: Lydia Castiglia | Wedding Dress: JLM Couture, Inc | Invitations: Sesame Letterpress | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bella Bridesmaid | Catering: Another Fork In The Road | Makeup:Priscilla Francine Makeup | Hair: Spalon | DJ: Winslow Porter | Groom’s Attire: J.Crew | Venue: Basilica Hudson | Bridal Boutique: Wedding Atelier | Rentals: Columbia Tent Rentals

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The Ultimate Saint Regis Hotel Hotel Wedding

Let’s face it, the Saint Regis Hotel is what wedding dreams are made of. Case in point? This stunner of a celebration captured by Justin & Mary and Tweed Video. Overflowing with classic details and cultural influence, this is one celebration that you’ll want to bookmark pronto. See it all in The Vault!

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From the Bride… Matthew and Asha were married March 19, 2016. Asha has mixed heritage and is half Indian, so the couple decided to fuse traditions and invite guests to a two day celebration in New York City where they reside.The first event was Friday March 18, an Indian Sangeet at Ph-d rooftop lounge at the Dream Downtown. The location was significant to them as three years prior, they had met and were stuck in an elevator in that very hotel! The couple wanted to return to the ‘scene of the crime’ to celebrate with friends and family.

The couple opted for minimal decor – just vibrant petals and colorful votive candles to contrast the sweeping skyline views and amazing lighting at the venue. Guests feasted on Indian food and then the festivities began. Accompanied by a dhol player (traditional Indian drum) the bridal party performed dances choreographed by the bride and her friend (both former dancers, the bride a former Radio City Rockette.) The night ended with a raucous dance party.

The color palette inspiration was shades of rosé and gold. The bride’s dress was Marchesa with intricate crystal and pearl detail on the décolletage. The bridesmaids dresses were sequins in alternating shades, each dress with a unique detail to make it their own. The florals were in the same palette, roses, hydrangeas, vintage yet modern. The bouquets were all studded with crystals for an extra sparkle.The groom opted for a navy blue tux and his groomsmen wore black. The groom loves to wear red socks, so he incorporated touches of red into his custom suit supply tux – embroidery on the shirt and under jacket collar, and lining of the jacket. The bride’s nephews also wore red socks to match the groom during the ceremony.The girls got ready in the glamorous Tiffany suite. The matron of honor (bride’s sister) conducted a ‘burn ceremony’ in which each bridesmaid made a wish for the couple and threw it in the fire.

The ceremony was interfaith, drawing on Christian & Indian traditions, designed by the couple and officiant Lisa Traina. In addition to Christian readings, there was the hindu ‘7 steps’ and a rose ceremony for the bride’s late mother. The rose ceremony was conceived by the bride and a tribute to their shared love of the ballet, and when the ballerina pulls a rose out of her bouquet for her partner. During the ceremony, the bride pulled a rose from her bouquet in honor of her mother.During the reception, the couple continued the themes of ‘old New York’ and travel through their first dance to Frank Sinatra’s ‘Come Fly with Me.’ The dip and groom’s moves surprised guests! The couple and guests dance the night away…

Guests left with a luxury scented candle designed by the bride who works for a global fragrance house. She worked with a perfumer to make a custom scent that reflected Matthew & herself – Indian sandalwood, American Cedarwood, to represent their roots, and a touch of coconut as a nod to their family name. Named Wanderlove, the candle represented two individuals coming together, filled with wanderlust and love.

Photography: Justin & Mary | The Weddings | Videography: Tweed Weddings | Wedding Coordinator: Kristina Camia | Floral Design: Dieter Van Beneden of Vert de Gris | Wedding Dress: Marchesa | Wedding Cake: Love Street Cakes | Invitations: Shine Wedding Invitations | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Synderela | Makeup: Emily Amick | Hair: Glamsquad | Calligraphy: Handrawndesign | Tuxedo: Suitsupply | Officiant: Lisa Traina | Wedding Venue: Saint Regis Hotel | Bride's Rings: Monique Pean Homme | Calligraphy Globe: Simply Gypsy Designs | Chief Advisor: Emily Reifel | Groom's Ring: Cartier | Henna: Sandy Patangay | Sangeet Catering: Guarav Anand | Sangeet Lighting: PH-D Rooftop | Sangeet Music: DJ Suhel | Sangeet Photography: Jason Weston | Sangeet Venue: PH-D Rooftop | Straight Razor Shaves for the Groom: Priv | Wedding Music: Hank Lane Music

Wedding Cake That Tastes Ah-mazing + It’s Healthy!?! Win-Win

Cake is my love language and clearly Emily Lael knows the quickest way to my heart. Crafting up vegan and gluten-free treats, I certainly wouldn’t mind indulging in a guilt-free slice on the daily. So whether you’re planning a special occasion or just need a daily fix, CLY BY MATTHEW and Larissa Lax captured it all to share in The Vault

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From Emily LaelEmily Lael Aumiller, pastry chef and founder of Lael Cakes, is releasing her first cookbook where she shares her tricks of the trade on baking with alternative ingredients. To celebrate the launch she recreated a few whimsical dessert tables using techniques from the book. Learn how to create a stunning vegan and gluten-free cake for any special occasion that is not only made with wholesome ingredients but that tastes amazing. Whether it’s your allergies, lifestyle or to create something special for friends and family, this will give you the tools that you need to create a custom cake that will really wow everyone!

Pure Artistry: Extraordinary Vegan and Gluten-Free Cakes includes recipes for staple cakes (like Mexican Chocolate, Lemon-Poppy, and Classic Red Velvet) plus icings and fondant, how-tos on cake construction, and information on necessary ingredients and tools. The truly extraordinary feature of the book is the gorgeous cake designs, which are organized by mood—classical, classical whimsy, modern, and modern whimsy. These teach the reader foundational decorating techniques, like making sugar flowers, while inspiring bakers with photography that is gorgeous enough to stand on its own.

Photography: CLY BY MATTHEW | Cinematography: Larissa Lax | Event Planning: Cana's Miracle, LLC | Cake: Lael Cakes | Event Space: Sunday Suppers

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