Style Me Pretty: Wedding Blog for the Style-Obsessed Bride

Here’s Why We’re Welcoming Jewel Toned Color Palettes With Open Arms in 2021

There’s no wonder why the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia are one of the most beautiful and iconic parts of the American landscape…OR why countless couples are drawn to hosting their weddings amidst the mountains transforming with fall color. With the incredible design help of Wild Fleurette, this mid-November shoot at The Ivy Rose Barn showcases how beautiful a fall wedding can be, even after the leaves have fallen to the ground. We just can’t help but crush hard on the vibrant floral entryway that added visual interest to an otherwise simple greenhouse and the unbe-leaf-able flatlays inspired by Sugared Fig Paperie’s invitation suite. Designs like this are the reason why we’re welcoming jewel toned color palettes with open arms in 2021. Don’t miss the full gallery of captivating imagery, all taken by Nicole Colwell Photography.

From Nicole Colwell Photography… Here in the Blue Ridge Mountains couples are drawn to hosting their wedding in the fall. However, Mother Nature is moody here in SWVA. One day in October the temperature will be 85 and the next day 40 degrees and our leaves are vibrant and full for weeks at a time or a wind storm can make fall disappear over night.

With this in mind we planned an editorial in mid November to showcase how beautiful a fall wedding can be even after the leaves have fallen to the ground.

Our inspiration was driven by the natural beauty that surrounded the greenhouse. We love fall weddings but didn’t want our design to be too predictable. We decided on a more vibrant color pallet, with jewel tones, mixed with different textures and florals that are jaw dropping.

Written by Lauren Megerdichian and Carly Zumar

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Sugared Fig Paperie

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Winter Wonderland Baby Shower

Editor’s Note: This blissful wintery wonderland of a baby shower actually makes us almost happy to have an extended winter this year! Take a look, draw in all kinds of inspiration, perhaps put on some swanky jazz music, and enjoy all the details of this Winter Wonderland Baby Shower.

From petite treats to glittery tablescapes, no detail was left unnoticed at this gorgeous couples’ baby shower.

And if we do say so ourselves, personalized acrylic details have never been fitting than with this party theme! The snowflake ornaments actually made us gasp a little bit with how gorgeous they are!

The color scheme made you truly feel like you were walking in a winter wonderland. From lush linens to crips florals and gorgeous table settings, the whole set-up was jaw-dropping.

And to top off a truly well-thought-out event, just take a little peek at the hot chocolate bar. Truly, it is a masterpiece.

Check out the gallery for more details!

Winter Wonderland Baby Shower.

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Detailed Touch Events

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Modern Garden Elegance At Hummingbird Nest Ranch

Extending over 126 acres, Hummingbird Nest Ranch is a modern oasis for brides. Julia and Monty picked this idyllic spot, complete with a grand lawn and mountain vistas, to say “I Do.” The ceremony was held underneath a showstopping chuppah overflowing with greenery and lush blooms designed by Butterfly Floral. Guests then entered the elegant reception space where a custom canopy filled with candlelight and flowers took guests’ breath away. Harutyunyan Events perfectly put together every special touch and darling detail. One image is more beautiful than the last, lovingly shot by Mi Belle Photographers. Get lost in all the romance in the full gallery.

From the bride and groom… Monty proposed on a private balcony in Positano just as the sun was setting. This magical moment was witnessed by Monty’s brother and his wife who were hiding around the corner with a bottle of champagne!

Hummingbird Nest Ranch has a perfect outdoor location adjacent to a pond, willow trees, and olive tree groves. The most unique feature of our wedding was the spectacular canopy structure set up on the lawn. Bob at A Rental Connection and Inna at Butterfly Floral did an outstanding job creating a magical and perfectly lit canopy with sparkling chandeliers and lush vines.

In a particularly magical corner of the canopy structure was a nod to our engagement in Positano with shelves covered in cigars, lemons, and ready to drink shots of limoncello!

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Peony & Plum

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A Seaside Love Story Which Brings Us to the Hamptons For A Wedding Day Designed by the Bride!

I always love a good ‘how you met’ story and this is a good one! A yacht captain and a girl who loves the sea meet in Montauk are just destined to say I do, and that is exactly what they did at The Bridgehampton Inn with those dearest to them by their side. The bride who wanted an elevated nautical theme, designed the day herself with her thoughtful vendors like Sag Harbor Florist who crafted beautiful blooms, and Lauren Fair Photography who captured the stunning images below. Check it out below and be sure to read all about how they met, planning their day…and don’t skip over their adorable pup!

From the bride, Tatiana…I grew up sailing and spending as much time as possible on, in, and near the water. My family enjoys fly-fishing in the rivers of Wyoming and Montana and sport fishing in the northern Atlantic until the frost sets in. In warmer weather, I can be found under the water with a tank on my back or lying on the bow of a boat somewhere. To say that we’re an aquatic family would be putting it mildly- I might as well have gills and fins. So when I met Matthew, a yacht captain from the Outer Banks, dockside beneath the glow of a lighthouse on a balmy Montauk night the irony was not lost on me. I was reluctant at first meeting him as his booming North Carolina accent seemed to play into the preconceived reputation most captains have. However, a few weeks in, my careful New York armor began to fall and I allowed myself to be swept away by this man from the sea.

When Matthew proposed I knew I wanted to reference the place where it all began and our shared love of the ocean. However, as I scoured over Pinterest and searched blog after blog I couldn’t find any examples of a “nautical” affair that wasn’t too youthful or obvious. I didn’t want stripes, sand dollars, or “knot” puns. So I had to get creative and set out to curate a unique, “elevated nautical” aesthetic; “baute couture” as my aunt put it. Knowing this was going to be a completely bespoke endeavor I turned to Etsy. Anna Moore of Prim Pretty Prints used the reference of the lighthouse in a custom stationery suite. The ink color pulled right from Benjamin Moore’s “Old Navy” interior paint.

Our fall date allowed for moody neutral tones and sandy, muted accents. I described our florals and tablescape using Dutch oil paintings by Koning, van Spaendonck, and van Walscapelle. Lots of chunky depth and bright whites, with flickers of gold. My art student background was showing. Sybille van Kempen, owner of The Bridgehampton Inn and Anastasia Casale of Sag Harbor Florist embraced our taste and met us with deep plums, fresh figs, and luscious dahlias. We wanted a formal, warm, candlelit feel, with a subtle nod to the sea. The vendors fell into place and with the addition of our lovely photographer, Lauren Fair Photography, we were on our way.

It all sounds like it was smooth sailing. But this year has proved to be a challenge to even the most resilient, well-balanced of spirits. We were faced with cancellations, postponements, quarantine, and the unpredictability of our own immune systems. Planning a wedding in a normal year is stressful but this year pushed us to our limits. Whenever a hiccup arose we always discussed the idea of canceling. But our date had sentimental value, my grandmother’s birthday, and so nevertheless we persisted. A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor, after all.

We always wanted an intimate wedding and so trimming our guest list a bit more wouldn’t be a problem. All precautions were taken to uphold the law and to make our guests feel comfortable. We adhered to social distancing rules at both the church, Bridgehampton Presbyterian, and during our dinner at The Bridgehampton Inn. The weather, unpredictable at best during October in New York, was dry and mild enough to open the large french doors of the historic inn and make use of the fluidity of the space. The string quartet played softly in the garden as we made our way into cocktail hour as the new Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Carter.

I suppose, in hindsight, this year gave us every opportunity to succumb to the sadness, uncertainty, and anxiety that seemed to be looming around every turn. Yet we saw our wedding as a small chance to shine some light into the lives of those we love. After all, love wins, and happy memories made with family and friends will last long after the trials of this year are over.

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Lauren Fair Photography

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You’ll Love The Colorful Explosion At This California Wedding

The bright pops of color in this California wedding are sure to bring a smile to your face. Aaron and Elizabeth teamed up with the powerhouse planning and design team from Michel B. Events to create their intimate wedding that still brings the wow. The couple said “I Do” at a ceremony in the round surrounded by beautiful blooms designed by Siren Floral Co. Guests were then delighted by the glass reception table lined with breathtakingly bold hues. Joel Serrato Film Photographer captured the magic of the day in the beauty of his imagery. Every inch of this special day stuns, be sure to see it all in the full gallery.

From the bride… We met and fell in love at 13,000 feet. I was in Phoenix, AZ for my grandfather’s 90th birthday where he took the entire family skydiving to celebrate. Aaron was my instructor and there was an instant spark between us. He later proposed in the same way that we met – at 13,000 feet. He popped the question on another skydive while we were under the parachute.

We found our incredible wedding planner Michel B. Events and started dreaming up all of the details for the weekend, then COVID-19 hit. Michel helped us to get excited about our new reality, which meant that we could make the weekend even more special for guests. What we created was more intimate and meaningful, we spent time with each individual guest, and each detail could be amplified.

One detail we wanted to keep regardless of wedding size was extravagant florals. Rachael and her team from Siren Floral Co. adorned the long glass dining table in a runner of bright flowers and glass oil candles. Each flower seemed to be more unique than the last, perfectly complementing the Ojai sunset. We can only describe it as pure
magic, a night that we will never forget.

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Elysium Productions

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Joel Serrato Film Photographer

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This Gorg Micro Wedding at Elawa Farms Is the Epitome of High Fashion

Trust us, the minute you lay eyes on today’s full gallery captured by Jessica Bedore Photography, you’ll quickly realize why we caught ourselves doing a double-take after finding out this was an actual real wedding. I mean… that dress, those blooms, the stunning couple – can you really blame us?! Storybook Weddings and Events and Bird and Bumble – you’ve truly outdone yourselves with this beauty. Don’t mind us, we can’t help but stare…

From Storybook Weddings and Events… This stunning mini wedding was the epitome of high fashion, over the top florals, and a love for the details. The juxtopostion between the organic gardens at Elawa Farms and the lavish ground arrangement for the ceremony and couture gowns from Dimitras Bridal Couture made this day truly unforgettable.

Our beautiful bride began the day in a Valentini Spose with a stunning corset bodice and sweetheart top. It was breathtaking as she and her groom had their first look. The ceremony was inspired by the gardens surrounding them, and they wanted it to feel loose and organic and almost like it was growing out of the ground to embrace around them as they said their “I Do’s.”

The florals were bold with color and full of textural blooms. It was a sea of Gladiolus, Amaranthus, Lisianthus, Scabiosa, Snapdragons, Elaeagnus Foliage, Quicksand Rose, Combo Rose, Burnet, Mums, Spray Roses, and Rose Hips. The small celebration continue with champagne and an extravagant table design featuring textural linens from La Tavola and BBJ. The table was filled floral cups and candles and married with the beautiful cut crystal glassware and organic coupe dinnerware. The placesettings includes handmade paper menus that were indiviualized as well as small baguettes from a local french bakery, Maison Marcel. The intimate affair was elegant and stunning.

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Jessica Bedore Photography

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Sugared Fig Paperie

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Love Meets Art At This Modern Inspiration Shoot

Love is in the air at this Hamptons styled shoot at the Parrish Art Museum. With inspired style and an eye for detail DM Events & Design created inspiration that every bride will fall in love with. Porcelain Vine Floral Design played with texture and subtle hues to create eye-catching florals at every turn. Just wait until you see the reception table with flowers that seem to grow straight out of the center! You can feel the magic of the day in the imagery by Stephanie Brauer. Visit the full gallery for tons of timeless touches.

From DM Events & Design… Located in the fabled Hamptons, Parrish Art Museum is a force of limitless beauty. Between the perfectly executed structure and lush, overgrown landscape, it’s an absolute dream for the couple who wants a showstopper venue.

Dawn Goldsmith of DM Events & Design teamed up with wedding photographer Stephanie Brauer and Marta Prachar of Porcelain Vine Floral Design to curate an understated design to complement the venue itself. Playing with subtle hues, textures, and prints, the concept quickly soared from minimalist to timeless, much like the art hanging on its walls.

With the venue being a cultural destination, it was so important to the team to honor that by having a bride and groom from two different backgrounds celebrating what matters most: love.

An Elegant New Hampshire Wedding Inspired By The English Countryside

This New Hampshire wedding is truly as pretty as a picture. Designed by the incredibly talented team at Events By Sorrell, one look, and you’ll feel as if you’re stepping into a work of art. Beautiful blooms in creams and yellows designed by Birds Of A Flower bring romance to the day. The images by Kate Preftakes Photography document all the incredible details in the most elegant of ways. For more of this masterpiece, head to the full gallery.

From Kate Preftakes… Andrew and Julia wed at the bride’s family home in rural New Hampshire, and the idyllic setting for their nuptials instilled in them the very spirit of serenity.

This classic New England landscape was the perfect backdrop for our green and white wedding inspiration. The crystal clear view of the mountain from the spot they said their vows was like a vision of a brighter future, a future they will delight in together as a team.

The ivy-covered walls and the lush mountain paired perfectly with our elegant gown and decadent table settings. We wanted a rich, painterly feel to this inspiration shoot and it came together perfectly on a beautiful fall day.

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Event Planning

Events By Sorrell LLC

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This Wedding In The Timbering Redwoods Will Take Your Breath Away

Are you dreaming of a wedding in the woods? This ceremony amongst the timbering redwoods is sure to take your breath away. Simone Lennon Events designed and produced a wildly romantic and glamorous day in the great outdoors. After the couple exchanged vows, guests strolled down a pathway flanked by lavender bushes to the iconic barn at Santa Lucia Preserve. Inside the space, Charlotte & Daughters created a floral explosion with blooms dripping from three staggering chandeliers overhead. Adriana Klas exquisitely captured the love of the day in her beautiful imagery. Visit the full gallery for a closer look at this elegant affair.

From Simone Lennon Events… Jessica and Trip have a tremendous love for the redwoods and being by the ocean so choosing The Santa Lucia Preserve in Carmel Valley was the perfect location as it married both worlds. They exchange their vows in a redwood cathedral draped with ethereal greenery and white blossoms.

A warm afternoon in August was the perfect time of year to host a cocktail hour in the garden. With sunflowers standing over 10 feet tall, trellises full of climbing roses, and tons of other foliage covering the grounds, it all made for a beautiful scene for guests to meander around chatting over small bites and specialty cocktails.

The bride’s favorite color is blue so we designed the long kings tables to feature the perfect hue while incorporating French lace inspired white china for each place setting accented with traditional menus that included each guest’s name hand-written in romantic calligraphy. We decided to suspend three staggering floral chandeliers covered in white blossoms and greenery for guests to dance under all night to add a little wow factor.

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3 Ways to Really Personalize Your Bridesmaid Proposals

It’s true, the last year has really made us miss our girlfriends, our people. The platitude “absence makes the heart grow fonder?” It v. much applies in COVID times, it’s just more like “[social] distance makes the heart grow fonder.” SO MUCH FONDER. That being said, while we’d love to round up our favorites and go hard with girls’ day and all that comes with it, we’re taking a bit of a step back and, instead, using this time to cherish each of our friendships separately. Brides, this is a great way to approach and plan the age-old “will you be my bridesmaid?” ask, because at the end of the day, once your wedding day comes around, you’ll (hopefully, fingers crossed!) have your whole crew together for the ‘I Dos.’ In the interim, you get a unique opportunity to ask each of your girls individually and specially. You have the time for it, so make it count!

Don’t get us wrong, we love a classic #squadgoals situation, but there wouldn’t be a squad if not for each one of your special somebodies – those from your preschool days, others from high school or college, cousins who feel like sisters, sisters who feel more like soulmates, even colleagues whose closeness with you rivals that of your spouse-to-be (whoever came up with the term ‘work wife’ got it exactly right). That’s why we’re such advocates of relishing each of the best relationships in our lives and then personalizing the all-important bridal party proposals. Group asks are great, and there’s certainly a time and a place for it, but since the pandemic is still forcing us to pause collective celebrations, we can definitely get behind a more intimate one-on-one dialogue.

Photo by Beatrice Howell

Our Style Me Pretty Shop certainly has a number of items that work for girl-gang gatherings, in full, but today, we’re zeroing in on the finds that will have your BFFs feeling ALL the feels. Tailor your asks with simple sentiments that come straight from the heart, and if you need our help, we’re there in a heartbeat! Shop everything you need to personalize your proposals 👉 Style Me Pretty Wedding Party Collection

Say more than these five words

The question is right there, we get it, and so will your girls, but that doesn’t mean it’s all on them. Spill your heart out in your card entries, tell each one of your hopeful maids that you absolutely love her and cannot imagine your day without her in it. A thought, if you’re stumped: recall the first time you ‘knew they were the one’ (one who would eventually stand beside you on your best day ever).

If your girls live nearby, decorate each of their envelopes (calligraph their names, add gold-confetti stickers, maybe even take a stab at watercolor effects), and personally drop the cards in their mailboxes. If you’ll be sending them via USPS, then get each girl a special stamp that’s either reflective of their personality or reminiscent – in some way – of your friendship.

Throwback to your friendship bracelets with kindred spirits

Friendship bracelets were the GOAT way back when, but these days, that glorious title goes to something else: champagne. Sure, wine glasses with ‘let’s bridal party’ messaging on them make a statement and feel super festive, but etched toasting flutes take those tidings a step further with bespoke beauty. The approach is tempered, too, which we like especially since we’re all still social distancing and continuing to do our part to bring COVID to a swift end. Instead of saying ‘can’t wait to party with you, bridesmaid!! (which is totally on point when it comes to bachelorette-ing… even virtually!)’ a monogrammed toasting flute – with your first initials (the 2021 friendship bracelet equivalent) – says ‘cheers, lady, let’s do this thing together!’

Photo by Feather & Twine

Vow to make their bridesmaid experience the best they’ve ever had/will ever have

The ‘will you be my bridesmaid’ question doesn’t come without strings attached. There will be moments of crazy, there will be a lot of associated costs, there will be stress, but before your girls commit to it all (and 9 times out of 10, they will), they’ll feel a lot more reassured if you vow to be there for them too. Prepare a special gift box for each girl with a handwritten note and supporting souvenirs. A water bottle for them to rehydrate after they’ve cried all the tears with you; a signature sleep mask for them to pull down [over their eyes] and power down after logging hours of wedding planning with you (the fact that it says ‘bridesmaid’ will speak loudly to anyone who spies them catching some winks #getthatsleepgirl); and a bubbly glass that prefaces their role as a lovely bridesmaid, because of course they are to deal with any and everything you might throw at them!

They’re your bridesmaids and they’ll be showing up for you, so you should absolutely show up for them! Shop the Style Me Pretty Collection for the cutest personalized presents to level up your proposals!

Photo by Kelsey Combe

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Photography

Kelsey Combe Photography

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An Elegant Garden Wedding at the Groom’s Family Home in Pasadena

There’s nothing like a good backyard wedding to start the week off on the right note! Today’s intimate (yet majorly stylish) wedding planned by Whitney Werts Events at the groom’s family home is giving us major Midsummer Night’s Dream vibes and we’re here for it. From the whimsical color scheme to the floral bridesmaid dresses and candlelit dinner – the inspo from the full gallery captured by Pinnel Photography is truly endless.

From Pinnel Photography… Carley and Evan married in an intimate and elegant garden celebration at Evan’s family home in Pasadena. Their wedding day truly illustrated the value and importance of love, of family, of appreciating one’s heritage, and of coming together to create beautiful memories. The wedding was attended by just their immediate families and grandparents, which made the day very warm and special. Keeping the wedding close to home and to heart, the intimate event was planned by Carley’s sister, Whitney who owns a Portland based wedding planning studio.

The gardens of Evan’s family home were transformed by arrangements of opulent pastel florals and other chic decor from Louloudi Design. Evan and Carley’s dining table top featured crisp white linen with pretty soft blue rimmed chargers and a napkin embroidered with a special floral crest with their initials to commemorate their union. The table was accented by abundant flowers and candles, and silver that belonged to Carley’s great grandmother. Evan and Carley are an amazing couple with great style. Carley wore a gorgeous Monique Lhuillier gown, that was both classic yet modern.

Her look was complemented with many pieces of heirloom jewelry from her grandmother. Carley’s sister in law, Alex Huddle, a beauty consultant and makeup artist, created a natural and dewy makeup look. Evan was super elegant in a suit designed by Kristopher Brock of Brock Collection. More heirlooms were brought forth for their wedding rings; Evan wore his grandfather’s and Carley, her mother’s. Keeping safety in mind, as the wedding was held during covid and especially to protect the older members in the family, everyone was asked to quarantine for two weeks before the wedding, and anyone who was able to got a covid test prior to the event.

One other fact worth mentioning: most of the vendors were close friends or acquaintances of the bride and groom. For example, the catering was provided by a close family friend who owns Fog Cutter Catering and the floral designer and wedding coordinator had done Carley’s sister’s wedding years before. The bride met the photographers through her best friend. All around there was a feeling of intimacy and keeping the event close to home. As intimate weddings and elopements are trending these days, Carley and Evan’s wedding truly illustrated how meaningful, special, and full of stylish details a small event can be!

A Picture Perfect Inspiration Shoot From The Bridal Gown To The Tiffany Blue Wedding Cake!

There’s nothing I love more than coming across a venue I haven’t seen before, especially when it is drop-dead gorgeous, like today’s location, the Anderson House. Add-in a whimsical bridal gown, romantic florals by Darling and Daughters, and a Tiffany blue wedding cake by Buttercream Bakeshop, and I am ready to take on Monday morning! This inspiration shoot detailed by Pamela Barefoot Events and photographed by Lindley Battle Photography has me feeling exactly that, inspired…and I think you will too!

From Lindley Battle Photography…This gorgeous, romantic, and floral wedding inspiration was created with the wide open and airy exterior of the classic DC wedding venue the Anderson House in mind.

Luxury wedding planner Pamela Barefoot Events created her signature magic with the floral theme in mind, presenting a stunning tablescape and creative wedding details to mirror the feminine and delicate details on the bride’s unique wedding gown.

This wedding inspiration shoot is the perfect reference for any couple hoping to incorporate the classic DC architecture in their wedding day while still infusing the feel of a whimsical Southern-California style outdoor ceremony.

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Amie Decker Beauty

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Lauren Fair Photography

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BHLDN Launched A Decade Collection For Their Ten Year Anniversary And It Is To Die For!

On Valentine’s Day in 2011, BHLDN launched its very first collection…and the rest is history! After 10 years of thoughtfully curated and absolutely beautiful bridal gowns, BHLDN who has dressed thousands of brides on their wedding days has launched a special anniversary collection of 10 beloved gowns from their archives known as The Decade Collection, available for a limited time. Gowns that celebrate BHLDN through the years and the many love stories they have been a part of.

With images from 10 years ago to some shot this week, we celebrate 10 years of one of our favorites! If you have been a BHLDN fan for years, you may recognize a design or two! Take a look below and your wedding dress may just be below!

Cate Gown
first sewn in 2015
a rule-breaking beauty in rosy ombre tulle, topped with sequins & beadwork

Harrow Gown
first sewn in 2011
a silk crepe slip with hand-pieced chiffon ruffles & a chic cutout back

Neela Gown
first sewn in 2011
for the boldest of brides, silk georgette tiers splashed with vivid florals

Roane Gown
first sewn in 2015
an effortless lace sheath with a romantic soul (look closely for hidden hearts!)

Lorne Gown
first sewn in 2011
a bold bow tops this tulip silhouette in five floaty layers of silk organza

Lita Gown
first sewn in 2011
vintage glamour shines in luminous silk charmeuse, dusted with pearly beads

Evelina Gown
first sewn in 2011
a short & sweet silk-cotton midi decked out in whimsical details

Bexley Gown
first sewn in 2011
a modern bride’s fantasy, made from clouds of pleated grey cotton-silk

Emma Gown
first sewn in 2015
a cascading gradient of laser-cut petals, inspired by Japanese cherry blossoms

Bryn Gown
first sewn in 2011
a bubbly personality replete with botanical details

Photography: Brooke Nash Photography | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Makeup: Glam Done Wright | Hair: Rhode Island Wedding Hair Stylist: Cassandra Broccoli | Accessories: BHLDN

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Brooke Nash Photography

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You Have to See This Couple’s Unforgettable Reaction to Their Reception First Look

With only 6 weeks to plan, Midwestern Bride joined forces with an all-star team of vendors to pull off a big-city design, creating the wedding of this bride and groom’s dreams. Just wait until you see the reaction to their reception first look, the bride literally fell to her knees in awe… that’s the kind of stuff we live for here at SMP. Oh, and we can’t help but mention the brides long sleeve Monique Lhuillier lace gown – I mean, talk about a knockout. To see all the steal-worthy details from their day, including living chandeliers made beautiful by Milwaukee Flower Company, don’t miss the full gallery captured by Sean Cook Wedding Photography.

From Midwestern Bride… As did so many events this year this wedding was canceled, postponed, and then surprisingly made to micro with only 6 weeks until “I do”. Even under massive time restraints and a much smaller guest list we decided to go big on style. Riverbend, a private mansion set alongside a large wildlife preserve, served as the most stunning backdrop to this NYC couples destination wedding. Riverbend used to be the Governors mansion and is now a boutique members only hotel so the couple rented it out in its entirety so that all the guests could stay under one roof the whole week.

When both the bride and groom work in fashion we knew the looks would be cutting edge and stunning but nothing could prepare us for the beauty of her off the shoulder royal inspired Monique Lhuillier gown and the groom dropped jaws in a custom Ralph Lauren and Gucci loafers. And that fashion carried through the entire week of wedding! Since family were coming from all over they treated as a true destination wedding with multiple days of festivities including a private Parisian dinner on the terrace and PGA golf outings. Pandemic forced them to cancel all the pre-wedding festivities earlier in the year so we stacked the week full of bachelorette/bachelor party, bridal shower, and more. The couple hadn’t even seen the brand new Straits Chapel and were actually the first couple ever hosted there and it did not disappoint.

Tucked and hidden in the trees alongside Lake Michigan it was perfection. The aisle was set with meadow boxes of wildflowers and lakefront backdrop. Matt and Katy were engaged in Nantucket so we thought it was important to keep that nautical theme throughout which we also brought into their compass crest seen on programs and menu cards. From 200 guests to just 32 we then moved the reception outdoors to a flower filled canvas Sperry tent that was absolutely glowing all night long. Guests were welcomed from cocktail hour to the tent as the brides father sabered a champagne bottle and the band boomed with vivacious energy.

Custom scents, luxurious draping, and stunning watercolor menus welcomed guests to their 5 course meal. And as guests settled in our dancing queen led her handsome groom to the sweetest first dance we’ve ever witnessed; it sure helps when your significant other is a professional dance instructor. As the night progressed guests settled in to curated French lounge spaces, a cigar stand near the gazebo, they enjoyed s’mores by campfire, and wandered the greenery maze and polo course.

After a quick disappearing act the bride re-entered the tent in another stunning sparkle clad gown as her bridesmaids set up her big entrance. Though we anticipated a quieter setting with a small guest count we were blown away with the energy of the crowd and hopping dance floor. With no sign of letting up we called guests out of the tent for some evening fresh air as they were surprised by bursts of fireworks let off over the nearby fields.

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Bold Florals, A Couture Gown, And The Lava Rocks Of O’ahu Make This Destination Wedding Inspiration A Dream Come True

If you’re craving something bright and beautiful, have we got the inspiration for you. Say goodbye to the winter blues, and take a trip with us to the coast of O’ahu. Nature’s beauty, a Samuelle Couture Dress, and imaginative details by Designs By Hemingway come together to make a destination wedding dream come true. The bold hues and beach vibes are all lovingly captured by Amy Mulder Photography. Take a trip to Hawaii in the full gallery for all the pretty.

From Amy Mulder Photography… It may have been the dead of winter with freezing cold temperatures on the mainland, but O’ahu was bringing the heat when our team of amazing vendors teamed up for this inspirational shoot. Then the search for the perfect dress to show all of the glorious movement on the lava rock of Hawaii began.

As soon as I saw Samuelle Couture’s line, I knew I had found THE dress! Debbie from Designs by Hemingway made an incredible floral installation and floral headpiece that was a dream to shoot. It was all tied together with the beautiful creations from Emma at Inkberry Calligraphy.

LouLu Palm Estate hosted our table shoot on the beach. My heart just was so so full seeing all of the colors, textures, and amazing creations come to life in the most beautiful of ways.

Are Floral Fans The New Wedding Day Accessory You’ve Been Waiting For?!

Warmer days are on the horizon and this springtime inspiration shoot at Morais Vineyard captured and planned by Angelika Johns will have you counting down the days! Whimsical with a European touch, this shoot is complete with the most fashionable brides and colorful spring florals by Love Blooms, including a floral fan that may be the newest floral trend! You’re going to want to check it out below…I promise you!

From Angelika Johns…We envisioned this couple to have a romantic, sophisticated, and whimsical European inspired micro-wedding in the spring with modern touches. We mixed romantic European architecture with soft colors and intentional details to execute this look.

We wanted colorful spring florals for this look, which included roses, lisianthus’, carnations, anemones, and delphiniums. In addition to a traditional bouquet, our other bride would want a more untraditional floral piece to hold so we made a beautiful floral fan to keep her cool as Virginia temperatures increase in the spring.

For the sweetheart tablescape, we selected crushed taffeta linen in ivory and draped it with a blush table runner. To complement the gorgeous outdoor courtyard space, we used honey colored rattan charger plates with varying textured ivory colored dinner and salad plates. We completed the look with blush napkins, champagne colored flatware, clear stemware, and the wedding bouquet placed decoratively at the head of the table.

For the invitation suite, we drew inspiration from Morais Vineyards and their Portuguese background. A textural floral motif was applied to handmade paper, inspired by ornamental accents on the front of the building, and paired with a romantic/whimsical calligraphy style. The plaster element was continued on the menus in modern and playful strokes, meant to mimic the petals of spring florals.

Enchanting Elopement Inspiration with a Timeless Modern Twist

Come for the timeless elegance stay for the shimmering gold chandeliers hanging above an alfresco reception table. Be it classic or modern, this elopement inspiration has everything you’re looking for and more. Beautifully dreamed up and produced by Rachel Ellen Events and Hosted by Mary Claire, you’re not going to want to miss a single detail. Tasha Brady Photography exquisitely tells the story of the day through her imagery. Visit the full gallery for a closer look.

From Tasha Brady Photography… With the beautiful creative direction by Rachel Ellen Events and Hosted by Mary Claire, this classic elopement inspiration was adorned with hints of modern elements to offer a twist on the traditional timeless look and feel of an al fresco destination wedding here in Arizona.

Stunning stationery crafted by Ink and Press Co. offered clean lines with subtle hints of European charm. Lush white florals crafted by Rachel Ellen elevated this sweet Elopement and was the perfect backdrop for some epic bridal portraits.

With intentionality, this inspiration was curated to capture the essence of an elopement like none other – classic, elegant, timeliness, and full of love.

A California Sunset Created a Stunning Backdrop for This Modern, Beachside Editorial in La Jolla

If you’re looking for a major color pop to brighten your day – look no further. Today’s sun-soaked San Diego editorial at Caroline’s Seaside Cafe planned by Ivy Weddings and Events is an instant mood booster. The vibrant red and orange sunset hues of Ophelia Floral Co’s epic “unfinished arbor” looked gorgeous against the panoramic views of the Pacific. The blushing bride stunned in a Pinterest-worthy plunge neck gown from Archive Bridal, perfect for a beachside soirée. To see all the inspiration this day has to offer, head on over to the full gallery – all taken by Natalie Bray Studios!

From Ivy Weddings and Events… This editorial shoot at Caroline’s Seaside Terrace is romantic, modern and bright with picturesque views of the Pacific shoreline.

This feature is the perfect fit for a couple seeking a modern beachside sunset inspiration for their intimate wedding day.

Our vision for this editorial gathered some of the most talented vendors from the San Diego wedding market to create a dreamy scene of quiet romance amongst the stunning sunsets and ocean tides of La Jolla Shores.

We were striving for a modern autumn aesthetic infused with radiant red hues, and a soft touch of cool blues. Chic gowns by Olvi’s Lace and Pronovias, adorned with floral accents, a flawless bridal beauty look by, Makeup by Stacey, and bold, colorful florals by Ophelia Floral Co are just a sampling of the talent included in this gallery. The inviting imagery evoked the coastal rays of sunrise to sunset. Our take on the beachside elopement is one of playful romance and thoughtful, organic details.

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Natalie Bray Studios

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Monet Inspired Elopement at Sunstone Villa

You won’t believe all the beauty that one gorgeous dress can inspire. A floral Monique Lhuillier gown served as the starting point for this Sunstone Villa elopement, filled with delicate hues and darling details from Embark Event Design. Continuing the printed floral theme, Lumaca Paper designed a custom and sustainably sourced invitation suite that perfectly complimented the locally sourced welcome baskets that greeted guests upon arrival. Whimsical greens and garden roses, designed by Noonan’s Wine Country Designs, brought the reception dinner in the olive groves to life. The love-filled day was magically captured by Ashley Ludaescher Photography. See all the romance, fashion, and fun in the full gallery.

From Embark Event Design… This timeless inspiration is full of garden influenced blooms, stunning bridal fashion, pops of soft hues, tons of texture, an authentic loving couple, and the most iconic location – all captured perfectly on film by Ashley Ludaescher Photography.

We centered this design around our bride’s gorgeous Monique Lhuillier floral gown. With a classic a-line shape and voluminous sleeves, this dress has many classic elements that allows for the floral fabric to remain timeless.

Fresh blooms full of texture added depth to the design, using soft colors to compliment the many tones throughout the day – from our bridal bouquet, overflowing with pops of soft mauve, blue, and lavender hues to blooming tablescapes, set for an intimate dinner among the olive groves.

The Ultimate Galentine’s Celebration Where Every Detail Was Thought Out In The Cutest Way

Editor’s Note: This absolutely fabulous Galentine’s party was hosted last year before Covid-19 hit the states. To take in all the inspiration from this AH-mazing party and make it covid-compliant, we recommend consulting your local CDC guidelines and implementing masks, socially distanced seating, or even take it virtual!

“What’s Galentine’s Day? Every Feb. 13th, my lady friends and I leave our husbands and boyfriends at home, and we just come and kick it breakfast style.” Galentine’s Day might have been the subject of a “Parks and Recreation” episode back in 2010, but it soon spurred a cultural phenomenon that celebrated my best gal friends every year across the United States.

In the spirit of ‘ladies celebrating ladies’, Boston-based wedding planners and designers Kelly Golia and LBB Member Kate Murtaugh planned, designed, and styled a Galentine’s Day celebration that we know to Style Me Pretty readers will want to recreate with their own group of friends this February. The event was complete with Valentine’s day inspired color palette, a mimosa wall, personalized vintage Valentines, and a beauty bar ready for any lipstick touch-ups, to name a few! Nearly 50 New England-based female creative entrepreneurs included designers, floral designers, stylists, caterers, photographers, calligraphers, and more, participated in bringing this celebration to life.

The day was designed to be part shoot, beauty bar, and boozy brunch, but most importantly, it was a day filled with an overwhelming sense of community and collaboration as we celebrated our local community of female creatives and all of our sweet Galentines. The event was broken out into two parts: the first featuring a feminine family-style brunch set for 50 gals. The table was adorned with layered blush and petal china, minimalist gold flatware from Party Rental Ltd., and retro-inspired paper goods from The Paper Perfectionist.

An ombre effect balloon installation designed by Fig Balloon Co. Hung overhead, while a 40-foot tablescape featuring breathtaking ombre floral centerpieces and candles from Bloom 52 lined the table. Guests enjoyed a fun Leslie Knope inspired brunch from Mood Food Event and Suddenly Simple events, including waffles with strawberry maple butter, spinach frittatas, and avocado toast. Dessert included chocolate covered strawberry and cookie butter-flavored cakes in shades of pink and red from Lizzie’s Bakery and the coolest conversation heart sugar cookies with female empowerment sayings like “girl power,” “girl boss,” and “ladies celebrating ladies” from Givan Sweets.

The second part of the celebration included four individually styled lounge areas that some of the attendees and contributors were responsible for designing. These areas included gorgeous floral designs, stunning stationery sets, and detailed styling. Each Galentine was encouraged to take her new headshot in – perfect for a resume or new Instagram profile picture! Once guests had time to mingle and have their new headshot taken, the ladies were encouraged to snag a mimosa from the champagne wall from Refined Rentals and be seated for brunch.

Since it wouldn’t be Galentine’s Day without a little love note, a personalized Valentine designed by Kelly, Kate, and The Paper Perfectionist was left at each place setting, featuring a baby photo of each guest. It was a sweet moment in which each guest could look back on their childhood and see how far each one of those little girls has come and succeeded. We all love celebrating weddings and their own unique love stories, but what about the love stories we experience with our business partners, friends, colleagues, or own work wives? To quote Leslie Knope, Galentines’s day really is “the best day of the year!”