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A Colorful and Modern Elopement with Some Southern Charm At Parcel 32, Charleston’s Newest Venue!

Bright, colorful and modern is the perfect way to describe Charleston’s newest venue, Parcel 32, where today’s inspiration shoot took place with a real life couple as the models! Inspired by the venue’s floral mural, this shoot paired modern vibes with just the right amount of Southern charm to create something beautiful, shot by Sacia Matthews and planned by Camila Craft. Check out all of the pops of color, blooming florals by Petaloso and my favorite…the Love Always Wins marquee!

From Sacia MatthewsThis inspiration shoot was inspired by the deliciously gorgeous venue – Parcel 32, one of Downtown Charleston’s newest wedding venues. The space is designed with modern vibes, including a gorgeous floral mural, which really anchored the color and inspired design of the day. At the core, we wanted this day to feel modern in look and feel, but equally, have an air of Charleston Charm mixed with a little bit of sultriness and sexiness that is having this quiet secret between two people – you’re married!

The stationery, designed by Paper Refinery, was a nod to all the fun colors that the venue naturally had, and equally a nod to the modern design by incorporating clean lines, the acrylic invitation – which almost felt like holding an award – something treasured, truly heirloom.

The cake was equally inspired by the fun colors of the stationery, and the venue, without being overly distracting. The deckled and frayed edges of the cake really added to that modern dimension and broke up the many clean lines we were working with from the day.

COVID-19 has totally changed many couple’s original plans, however, we wanted to show that the day could still be completely elevated and gorgeous, especially with accents that add a flair to the design and decor of the day. We knew that our models (a real couple!) would be gorgeous in their fashion-forward gowns, including adding floral shoulder pads created by Lori at Petaloso, and an incredible crown from Emma Katzka.

Patrick Properties was kind enough to create a special marquee for this shoot to celebrate our model couple, by saying Love Always Wins. The couple was nearly in tears seeing the board for the first time!

Photography: Sacia Matthews Photography | Event Planning: Camila Craft | Floral Design: Petaloso | Wedding Dress: Verità Bridal | Cake: Patrick Properties | Invitations: Paper Refinery | Makeup: Antoina Scott Beauty | Hair: Borne | Wedding Venue: Parcel 32 | Accessories and Shoes: Model Bride | Bride Hairpiece: Emma Katzka Bridal | Custom Champagne Bottle: We Do | Linens: Nuage Designs | Tabletop Rentals: Ooh! EventHaus

You Wouldn’t Believe This Italian-Inspired Elopement Took Place in Maryland!

When one couple’s dream Tuscan wedding plans came to a screeching halt all thanks to COVID, they enlisted the help of SRS Events to bring their Italian celebration to life – just much closer to home. Classic Italian cuisine, a gelato cart, a chateau-esque venue along with a yellow and blue color scheme, all came together beautifully to bring the romance of Tuscany to Maryland. Love Blooms created heavenly arrangements that could have been foraged from a garden in the countryside! Head on over to the full gallery to see every last detail – taken by Rebecca Theresa Photography!

From the photographer, Rebecca Theresa Photography Elise and Adam were originally set to marry in Tuscany in May… The dreamy Italian wedding they had always wanted. However, due to Covid, their travel and wedding plans came crashing to a halt. 

Determined not to let Covid stop them from marrying, they hired a local wedding planner to help bring the Italian charm to their homestate of Maryland. When they toured Strong Mansion up in the mountains in Dickerson, Maryland, they fell in love with the gorgeous grounds and grey chateau-esque venue. 

They brought in similar designs and ideas that they were originally planning to have at their Italian wedding, such as a gelato cart, olive oil tasting, and limoncello! 

Their stationery designer re-designed their invitation to reflect their new venue, but they still used their original crest throughout the stationery designs. A delicious meal of ravioli, fish, and caprese and lots of limoncello signature drinks rounded out a beautiful wedding day.

Photography: Rebecca Theresa Photography | Event Design: SRS Events | Floral Design: Love Blooms | Dress: Willowby by Watters | Cake: Jisoo Cake Design | Shoes: Bella Belle | Hair & Makeup: Carla Pressley Hair & Make-up | Tux: Friar Tux | Bridal Gown: Rosalin's Bridal | Crest Design & Stationery: Chez La Mariee | Linen Signs: Kimberly George Art | Location: Strong Mansion | Mirror Calligraphy: Leah Letters | Rentals: White Glove Rentals

The Terracotta Themed Escort Card Display Every Plant-Obsessed Couple Needs to See

Calling all “plant parents”! This adorable backyard wedding in California planned by Amorology is right up your alley. Today’s darling duo originally planned to host a 300-person celebration by the beach. But when COVID made an appearance, they decided to tie the knot at home, with just 60 of their nearest and dearest. The tented reception was dressed in beautiful shades of pink, teal, and terracotta… adorned in lush arrangements from Blooms Design House. We couldn’t help but oooh and ahhh over the adorable terracotta themed escort display, not to mention the too-cute-to-handle potted plant cake design! To see all the details (and pin your faves), head on over to the full gallery captured by Cavin Elizabeth Photography!

From Cavin ElizabethTeresa and Christian had originally planned for a very different wedding. Their initial plan was to have 250-300 guests for a Catholic ceremony and a hotel reception by the ocean. After Covid made its full appearance in California, the plans began to change. Ultimately, nearly a week out from the wedding, they made the plan to host the reception at Teresa’s parents’ home in Fallbrook, California. 

They kept the church ceremony, although it did move from indoors to outside of the church. Their final guest count was around 60 guests who all enjoyed the beautiful scenery and libations at the family home. Beautiful shades of pink, teal, and terracotta graced the escort display and tablescapes of the reception. 

To compliment the tones of terracotta, wooden crossback chairs for guests and linen-tufted cane back chairs surrounded a mix of round and long tables. These organic wood tones felt so cozy underneath the reception tent! One group of tiny details to note can be found on the wedding cake.

Potted plants were incorporated into the cake’s design in the form of bas relief. Plus, the plants are potted in little terracotta pots – how darling! 

The couple enjoyed their toasts and first dance, as guests – including the groom’s parents via a video call – watched in awe. It was truly an incredibly sweet evening.

Photography: Cavin Elizabeth Photography | Videography: Russell John Films | Florist: Blooms Design House | Cake: Milly's Fine Cakes | Invitations: Crane & Co. | Church: St. Margaret's | Reception Venue: Private Residence | Catering: Elegant Events Catering | Calligraphy: Four Things Paper | DJ: Impressions San Diego | Beauty: Alexis XObeauty | Gown Boutique: Luv Bridal | Gown Designer: Madi lane | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Planning: Amorology | Rentals: Bright Event Rentals | Rentals: Catalog Atelier | Rentals: Folklore Vintage Rentals | Tabletop Rentals: Hostess Haven

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A Sunset Inspired Shoot With The Cutest Mobile Bar Cart At Bonnie Blue’s Event Venue

There is just something to be said about a good sunset, they are captivating and you can’t help but stop for a moment and take it all in. Enjoue Studio took that inspiration and designed a stunning styled shoot at Bonnie Blues Event Venue in Colorado! With florals by MJM Designs in an array of colors to match the setting sun and a mobile bar cart by La Piccolina Mobile Bar, I don’t know which detail I love more! Take a look at Sarah Porter’s gorgeous images below to pick yours!

From Sarah Porter PhotographyThere’s something about a sunset that is incredibly alluring. One can stand on the edge of a mountain, overlooking an open prairie, or along a body of water, and still be mesmerized by the beauty of the colors and magic a sunset paints in the sky and on the surrounding landscape.

Our editorial shoot designed and styled by Enjoue Studio was based on the concept of the glorious colors we experience in Colorado at sunset. There are tones of blush, peach, amber, rosy pinks, and mauves that drift into the evening blue tones that melt into the colors that grow ever deeper. We brought this color palette into every element of decor and throughout each scene.

Our petite wedding is set at the new and stunning Bonnie Blues Event Venue in Elizabeth, Colorado. The style is modern and expressive of our color palette that surrounds the ceremony site and reception spaces to follow. We wanted to combine the natural beauty of the prairie, a modern barn styled event venue, and a young sophisticated couple sharing their “I dos” in simplicity with only a few select loved ones.

Each floral bloom from MJM Designs was thoughtfully planned to coordinate with the transitional colors of the sunset and were locally sourced with seasonal dahlias, cosmos, roses, ranunculus, and other blooms in a warm sunshine bouquet. These similar flowers are arranged in an ombre of tones to accent our ceremony space with a clear contemporary acrylic guest chair that is also used again with the dinner reception table.

After the intimate ceremony, guests are welcomed with a charming mobile bar cart from La Picollina Bar, imported from Italy, and retro-fitted for beer and champagne on tap. Next to the bar is a modern lounge set from Enjoue Studio, accented with multi-colored stemware, hammered copper mugs for sipping libations, and cozy accessories in the colors of the setting sun.

Each accent detail was given the same consideration as all the other touches, with an emphasis on the color palette and modern shapes. Our paperie suite from Sweet Zion Paperie suggests to the guests of the event to come with natural fiber papers and geometric patterns that whisper of the evening Colorado prairie.

All of the tableware items are from Enjoué Studio and were selected to combine old and new elements for a sense of remembering the past and looking forward to the future. At each place setting is a mixture mix & match colorful stemware. We also used modern chargers and pale blush dinner plates layers with a vintage ornamental plate. The sunshine tones are highlighted by the English pattern plates from the late 1800s in colors of cream, yellow, pinks, and reds. This collection created by Minton has colorful enamel centers, with playful floral bands in warm and bright tones. Each decorative plate is complementary to the dahlias in the table florals, and one of a kind with their accented 24-carat gold rims and a playful floral pattern band.

Sunsets are not only beautiful, but they also have so much meaning. They signify transformation and change. They also remind us of the day ending and the importance of our time with those we love. What better way to celebrate, than to be with the one you love the most, in the light of the sun setting and toasting to new beginnings, sipping on sunsets.

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Photography: Sarah Porter Photography | Cinematography: Laurel Wedding Films | Event Planning: Nicole Silver Events | Floral Design: MJM Designs | Cake: Cak the Bakery | Invitations: Sweet Zion Paperie | Rings: Sarah O | Makeup: Sabrina Deemer | Hair: Dulce Diem Hair | Groom's Attire: Ted's Clothiers | Wedding Venue: Bonnie Blues Event Venue | Bar Rental: La Piccolina Mobile Bar | Bridal Shoes: Bella Belle | Bridal Shop: a&be bridal shop | Design, Styling & Curated Rentals: Enjoue Studio | Male Model: Cierra Pangrac

A Blush Gown, Lake Como Views, and Roses Galore – This Is What Microwedding Dreams Are Made Of.

Today’s inspiration shoot from Honour and Blessing is every romantic bride’s dream microwedding – brought to life! With the idyllic Villa Balbiano as their backdrop, the sweetest couple wed under a baby’s breath adorned floral arbor from Ratti Flora. The bride absolutely stunned in an elegant, blush pink Le Spose Di Gio gown that perfectly complimented her sugar plum, pink and cream bouquet. To see every last detail and breathtaking view, don’t miss out on the full gallery… all taken by Jen Huang!

From the planners… Our couple got engaged in the summer of 2019 in Southern Italy and were planning to have their wedding also in Italy. When we were conceptualizing the idea for this shoot, we designed it with an intimate wedding in mind. From the colours to the actual wedding and reception, we wanted to create a wedding where the designs will complement and flow with the beautiful designs of Villa Balbiano and also have plenty of Italian touches as the groom is Italian. With the classic and opulent decor at Villa Balbiano we wanted the colours to be elegant and timeless. As we looked at the details of Villa Balbiano we fell in love with a beautiful antique chair and it became the inspiration for our theme of “Sugar Plum Romance” for the couple.

Using shades of sugar plum, pink, and gold, we wanted to paint the scene of a picture out of a storybook. Villa Balbiano proved to be the perfect setting for our “Sugar Plum Romance” concept with its idyllic views of the lake against the backdrop of majestic mountains. Creating around this concept, all the vendors came to bring this story to life. Veronica Halim of Truffypi created a breathtaking invitation suite with plenty of texture and depth in the handmade paper and various colour tones. For the ceremony, we wanted to keep the focus on the iconic Villa Balbiano building. We chose white flowers to create a dreamy and airy arch to complement the surroundings and an archway that surrounds their doorway. Rattiflora also created plenty of low floral arrangements in various sugar plum shades that we used during cocktail hour, table, and fireplace. Using the impressive stone table for reception, we soften the look with a delicate silk runner and napkins from Fati D Amor and plenty of candles from The Floral Society.

The Wedding Day:

The day started with Ying getting ready leisurely with hair and makeup done by The Glamourist. With the delicate and romantic vintage Claire de Lune outfits, Jane created a soft look with wavy curls as Ying took different portraits throughout the Villa. In the meantime, William got ready in his Hall Madden tux and everything about the morning was very relaxing, just like a vacation in Italy. For the ceremony, Ying changed into her Le Sposio Gio gown that was dreamy and flowed perfectly with the sugar plum romance as it is in a full and delicate wedding gown with a touch of pink tones. Her hair was also transformed into a low bun to match her gown and to showcase the design of the neckline. The small group of international guests arrived on the property for the intimate ceremony and were seated on the lawn facing the iconic entrance to the villa. 

As Ying walked down the aisle, which was the area on both sides of the fountain area. She only had eyes on the smiling groom as he waited under the baby breath’s arch as she walked towards him. The couple exchanged their vows as guests witnessed their love story and celebrated together with them. Everyone also gathered around in front of the majestic archway to give the couple their blessings by showering them with a confetti toss. After the ceremony Ying changed into her evening gown for cocktail hour with her guests as everyone admired the view of the lake and mountains. 

Under a private canopy of foliage and flowers, the newlyweds entered the reception area with cheers from the guests and shared a lovely meal together. The beautifully textured wedding cake in sugar plum tones by Qualcosa Di Dolce tied everything together, ending the wonderful day on a sweet note full of love. We hope you can relive the enchantment and romance through the magic of Jen Huang’s lens and also the snippet of the video from Julie Aarons.

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Photography: Jen Huang Photography | Cinematography: Julia Semashko | Event Planning: Honour and Blessing Events | Florals: rattiflora | Wedding Dress: Le Spose Di Gio | Cake: Qualcosa di Dolce | Stationery: Veronica Halim Calligraphy | Ceremony Venue: Villa Balbiano | Reception Venue: Villa Balbiano | Jewelry: My Golden Age | Makeup and Hair: The Glamourist | Candles: The Floral Society | Getting ready attire: Clair De Lune | Ribbons and Napkins: Fati Amor

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

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

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

01 | Quality time with your favorite people

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

02 | Quality Details

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

So what can that look like?

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

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

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

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

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

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

03 |A heartfelt ceremony

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

04 | A more relaxed experience

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

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

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Photography: Amanda Olivia Photography | Videography: Hitched Visuals | Event Planning: Whitewood Events | Floral Design: Amy Osaba | Ceremony Venue: Meadowlark 1939 | Reception Venue: Meadowlark 1939 | Rings: Trumpet & Horn | Hair and Makeup: Margaret Snider | Groom's Attire: Miguel Wilson Collection | Bridal Dress Shop: Sakred Bridal | Bride's Hairpiece: LeLet NY | Film Processing: PhotoVision Prints | Flatlay Boards: Locust Collection | Invitation Suite + Paper Goods: Ciarra Claire Fine Art | Linens: Nuage Designs | Rentals: Crush Event design | Tableware: Table Made Co.

A Nutcracker Inspired Holiday Dinner Party

We’ve officially found our holiday table inspiration for this year! And while we’re certain we won’t pull it off nearly as spectacular as Beijos Events, it’s the soft pastel palette, the decadence in design, the sweet (even a little girly) vibe that has us swooning. This dinner, celebrating The Art of Being Female and Giovenizza Skincare, was completed with a stunning meal by celeb chef Ashton Keefe, stunning florals by French Buckets and photographed beautifully by Sarah Noel. Read on for jealousy inducing gorgeousness!

From Beijos Events…We recently styled a Nutcracker inspired dinner party in Newport Beach at the most gorgeous home. Our client Alatheia of Art of Being Female had recently taken a trip to Moscow and was in love with the Winter scenery along with the reminder of everyone’s favorite Christmas story – The Nutcracker.

We took her recent travels as our inspiration for this beautiful dinner party. The table was set with gorgeous white and gold china and crystal cut glassware from Cherished Rentals. The rose gold napkins from Hostess Haven were a pretty compliment, along with the brass candlesticks and tapered candles. 

French Buckets wowed us with her gorgeous floral runner along the table and adorned the fireplace with winter greens. The talented Dirty Eraser did the most amazing art work for our invite and menus, also using our Russian inspiration. We sprinkled faux snow, ornaments and nutcrackers along the table and it really felt so festive!

The ladies were treated to a delicious holiday dinner by Ashton Keefe, she served a beautiful take on a classic like Beef Wellington which is always a crowd pleaser! The wine was selected and served by Argaux, a women owned sommelier that always finds the best wines to go with our client’s meals.

The evening was hosted by the ladies of Art of Being Female and Giovenizza Skincare. They taught us about how to take care of our skin and have it glowing year round, which was so informative!

It was a beautiful evening in a beautiful home with beautiful ladies! A great way to kick off the holiday festivities!

Photography: Sarah Noel | Event Design: Beijos Events | Florals: French Buckets | Catering: Ashton Keefe | Hosts: Art of Being Female | Hosts: Giovenizza Skincare | Napkins: Hostess Haven | Paper Goods: Dirty Eraser | Sommelier: Argaux | Tabletop : Cherished Rentals

7 Style Me Pretty Must-Haves for an Epic Drive-By Engagement Party

Anyone wake up today with a new piece of jewelry on THAT finger; maybe this weekend’s Tryptophan-induced sleep led to an epic #wokeuplikethis💍 moment (or moments)? Well, congratulations!! We’re so excited for you, and we can’t wait to help you get started on those wedding plans. We love a Thanksgiving Day proposal, but more than that we love how turkey day/weekend asks kick off what we in this industry call ‘engagement season.’ From now until Valentine’s Day, proposals will be poppin’ and if you ask us, we’re ready for it. 2020 hasn’t been the best, but seeing couples get engaged and start planning their weddings (whatever they may be, micro weddings, elopements, minimonies, it’s all 👍) kind of restores our faith in a brighter future! 

Photo by Koman Studio

Now, granted, getting engaged during a global pandemic might not have been in your ‘perfect proposal’ playbook – but why not? Last week called on us to be thankful for all of the bright spots that broke up this mostly-dark year, and we couldn’t think of a brighter spot than a soon-to-be-married status upgrade and a happily-ever-after on the horizon. Your nearest and dearest will obviously want to shower you with all the love and support from day one of your affianced life, but if a ‘proper’ engagement party needs to pivot to an engagement drive-by (as we head straight into winter with COVID-19 risks on the rise), then so be it! If you need to host the event on your own turf, then game on! This new chapter in your love story is absolutely a cause for celebration amidst all the caution, so as you’re getting ideas together, know that the Style Me Pretty Collection is ready and waiting.  

It’s way past Labor Day, but we’re way past outdated fashion rules, so first up on the #justengaged to-do list: buying your first all-white outfit to inaugurate your new bride-to-be title. Then, start dreamscaping your drive-by engagement soiree and make it count with decorations, signage, and props from our perfectly-curated collection.

Photo by Steve Steinhardt

Welcome your bests with a friendly reminder

That together is a beautiful place to be (even if it’s masked and 6 ft. apart)! Our backdrop banner makes a great photo staging scene, especially when it’s flanked by a whole lot of pretty blooms. Deck out your display with a few signs that show off your intended wedding hashtag and encourage your friends and fam to take some pics and try it out for the first time.

Lean into your new label 

There are very few times in a person’s life when he or she can fully embrace being the center of attention. Being engaged and getting the bride or groom title is one of those times. So, for your engagement drive-by, graciously slip this sash over your shoulder and wear your bride-to-be crown like the queen that you are! Plus, you can save the whole ensem for your bachelorette … (if it doesn’t work out, due to COVID concerns, at least you got to wear it once!).

Raise a glass with a warm & toasty (virgin) toddy

Because wherever you are might be getting cold right about now! We love the idea of doing a quick toast with something that isn’t champagne but that still gets everyone bubbly. Of course, everyone will have to drive home, so the objective isn’t to go boozy, rather, just to kick up the spirit a little bit (it’s holiday time, isn’t it?!). A warm apple cider or a hot coffee goes really well with our stainless steel ‘let’s bridal party’ travel cup, or you can also hand out our ‘sipping pretty’ mugs with some homemade hot cocoa!

Use your venue+event to ask the crew

Your friends and family will be dropping by to celebrate YOU, but how sweet would it be to surprise them, too?  Hand out our super cute bridesmaid headbands to each prospective bridesmaid as she stops by – and send her home with a question that she has the whole ride home to consider. Best ‘I’m in!’ text back gets a prize (so you’ll want to get familiar with our gifts!)… 

Photo by Steve Steinhardt

Start a campaign to make engagement cake a thing…

We’re honestly not sure why it isn’t already, but it is, because the way 2020 turned out, we all should be eating cake for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Don’t get crazy, either, a simple one-tiered buttercream confection is always appreciated – as are photos of the two of you together on top of it!

And do your own loop around the block with something cute in back

You know what a getaway car is, right? The fancy ride a couple hops into as they leave their ceremony or their reception – usually with a garland, some cans and streamers, or confetti trailing from behind? Well, that’s exactly how we’d love to see you close out your drive-by engagement party! You can do it with something sweet like ‘Cheers to Love’ or hang any one of our gorgeous garlands up. Honk twice if you’re excited to turn the corner and drive into #somethingnew and oh-so great!  

An engagement party isn’t a pre-requisite for everyone, but it’s certainly a fun way to embark on that road to the altar. So, get a guest list ready and start shopping the Style Me Pretty Collection for everything you’ll need after you say ‘YES’ and all the way through ‘I Do.’

Photo by Steve Steinhardt

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How to Execute the Perfect Holiday Table

Confession. I basically have a prop room in my basement. Yep. I have six sets of gold flatware, hundreds of mismatched goblets and saucers, color coordinated throw pillows for every season. All from photoshoots past. It’s pretty freaking awesome and means that come holiday time, I can pull together a table in 6 seconds flat. But it wasn’t too long ago that I was pooling china and wine glasses with my sisters just to have enough, thus I know this isn’t normal at all. All that said, no matter how robust or bare your entertaining arsenal is, the incredible Melissa Mueller with Golden Arrow Events & Design, alongside GOR.GEOUS. photos by Sposto Photography and florals by Penelope Pots, is here to convince you that pulling together your holiday table in a way that feels cohesive and utterly lovely isn’t just doable…it’s easy if you follow a few key tips!

Here in sunny Southern California, we don’t get to experience a snowy white holiday season. So we wanted to create a holiday setting based on our surrounding elements. Natural tones with pops of navy and fresh greenery make us feel just at home!



ONE.

Layer on Details. Small details can make the largest impact with a Tablescape. After you have your primary serving pieces – dinnerware, flatware & glasses (which oftentimes are very plain and simple), it’s time to layer on the beauty. For example, adding ornaments, fresh berries and or a twigs of rosemary will add a sense of holiday “prettiness” while fresh florals will add that something special.

TWO.

Mixing & Matching is totally okay! Whether you only have enough of one print/pattern for 6 and you need 8 OR you just want to play with having an eclectic look, when done right, mixing & matching glassware, flatware, chairs and serveware can add a playful and yet decidedly elegant look. How do you do it right? Well, stay consistent in either color or style and you’ll have a slam dunk. 

THREE.

Play with color. Often with Christmas we think red and greens. But give yourself permission to think outside the box and have some fun with different color combinations. We opted for white and blue with accents of wood and gold. Whether it’s drawing from your own home decor or just coming up with something new and entirely different. 



FOUR.

Think Warmth & Texture. Throw pillows tucked into corner, throw blankets draped over chairs. Florals set on the floor or on lower tables. Small area rugs brought in to help define your space. Extra seating in poufs or soft sheepskin rugs. You want your space to feel cozy and the number one way to do that is through texture. 

FIVE.

Set the Ambiance. Music and Lighting are just as important as decor. Lower those overhead lights, switch on your lamps and burn some candles. Create a holiday playlist that can take you from a peppy cocktail, to a lively dinner conversation and well into a cozy, relaxing cocktail. 



SIX.

Spoil Your Guests. Never let your guests have an empty hand. While this isn’t so much about decor (although having a chic, very special holiday glass helps!), it is about the fact that a successful tablescape or holiday room plan is SO much more than placing props around the room. It’s about anticipating your guests above and beyond anything else. Whether you keep the champagne on ice all night or serve a variety of drinks from prosecco with berries to hot cocoa with fancy marshmallows, your guests should always have something delicious within arms reach.

SEVEN.

Give a Gift. Have something for guests to take. For us, it was a DIY keepsake. We added the tassel ornament to each place setting which added that natural modern touch and gave our guests something that would make the evening feel incredibly special. 

Photography: Sposto Photography | Design + Styling: Golden Arrow Events and Design | Floral Design: Penelope Pots | Catering: Giracci Vineyards Farms | Venue: Huntington Bay Club | Dessert: Grace & Honey Cakes | Event Space: Huntington Bay Club | Invitation Suite + Calligraphy: Pirouette Paper | Laser Cut Goods: Creative Amme | Specialty Rentals: Marnie Schnabel - Sweet Salvage Rentals | Table Top: Hostess Haven

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
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Santa-Approved Recipes for Christmas Morning

Despite being 24-years-old, I still act like a child on Christmas morning. I wake up first and impatiently twiddle my thumbs until the rest of my family is up and it’s time to open presents. But instead of twiddling my thumbs this year, I’m going to keep myself busy cooking up one of these delicious breakfast recipes. From gingerbread cinnamon rolls to eggnog donuts, these yummy treats will definitely be in the running for best present!

Ricotta Pancakes with Maple-Bourbon Whipped Cream

You can never go wrong with pancakes, but pancakes on Christmas should be special! These festive alternative ads some extra flavors to your merry morning

Get the recipe here!

Healthy Orange, Almond + Cocoa Nib Muffins

Christmas season sends to send your eating habits overboard, and if you’re avoiding starting the day off with a sugar comma these muffins definitely don’t skip out on festive flavor! You’ll feel good and fueled with what you ate, but with a tasty treat.

Get the recipe from our friends at Lark & Linen here!

Gingerbread Yogurt Waffles with Powdered Sugar Glaze

An alternative, merrier version of the OG waffle, these Gingerbread waffles are a win-win Christmas morning.

Get the recipe from our friends at Melanie Makes here!

Cranberry Orange Whole Wheat English Muffin Bread

This is what we like to call a “hand-held” breakfast that can be consumed **while opening presents.

Get the recipe from our friends at With Salt & Whit here!

Eggnog Donuts with Bourbon Butter + Spiced Sugar

Just reading the flavor profiles of these donuts is making our mouths water. Seriously, you could not imagine a more festive way to start the day.

Get the recipe from our friends at Lark & Linen here!

Cream Cheese Swirled Gingerbread Loaf

If you’re looking for a pattern here, take an everyday breakfast option, add ginger to it and we’re sold. This loaf is no exception.

Get the recipe from our friends at A Happy Food Dance here!

Gluten-free Spiced Cranberry Orange Scones

A little GF intolerance should in no way take away from your festivities, and these delicious spiced orange scones prove just that.

Get the recipe here!

French Toast in a Mug

This recipe is not only “hand-held” but it’s brilliantly mobile.

Get the recipe here!

Eggnog Bread with Rum Glaze

Eggnog is a secret powerhouse flavor of the Christmas season, and when you put it in pillowy bread form and top it with a Rum Glaze, it’ll knock your socks off.

Get the recipe from our friends at Well Plated by Erin here!

Classic Cinnamon Rolls

There nothing more classic than an ooey-gooey fresh hot cinnamon roll on Christmas morning. So when in doubt, go for the classic!
Get the recipe here!

Christmas Morning Recipes
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Christmas Morning Recipes
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More Holiday Recipes

Christmas Cocktails | Delicious Peppermint Recipes | Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

Laine & Layne Holiday Home Tour

If ever there was a home that embraced the idea of an intentional design, of carefully curated and thoughtfully planned decor, Laine & Layne’s gorgeous Wintry home does to a T. And we couldn’t be more excited that they are opening their doors to SMP and giving you guys a little glimpse into their beautiful, family first world. Oh and if you aren’t already stalking them on insta … you should definitely start now. It’s pic after pic of the most lovely life (and home) ever.

From Laine & Layne…When decorating our home for the holidays, Justin and I really try and stick to our simple design aesthetic by incorporating natural elements and staying true to our neutral color palette. This year, we used fresh cut Cyprus branches from our yard, eucalyptus, cedar garland, fern and olive branches throughout to add a little fresh greenery to each room. 

ENTRY

Stacks of firewood, wisps of greenery, gorgeous well worn textiles all set the tone from the moment you arrive, to the moment you sink into their perfect sofa.

MANTLE

The fireplace is the natural focal point for Laine & Layne’s holiday decor and to showcase it, they stuck with natural elements like fallen chestnuts in the bowl on the hearth, freshly cut Cyprus branches from their own trees and for a touch of handmade whimsy, they hand strung popcorn against their fresh Fraser Fir.

The gorgeous candlesticks and tone on tone striped stockings are from @mcgeeandco and add an element of all out luxe to the otherwise casual vibe. Love, love, love.

LIVING ROOM

In the history of SMP Living, there has never been a living room that we wanted to sink into more – a great book, a glass of wine and a pretty fire? Heaven. Right here on earth. While Laine & Layne are continually awe and inspiring us, their holiday living room – filled with warmth and goodness – totally wins the prize for most beautiful room ever.

The Loloi Rugs, the Elizabeth Hale throw blanket, the white on white on white …well, they are everything.

But perhaps the most notable element of this space, is the restraint and exquisitely curated design. From the delicate frame to the elegant pedestal table, from the greenery to the subtlety of the barn doors – every last detail seems thoughtful and intentional.

BEDROOM

Simplicity reigns Queen in the L & L household. Where good design is married with quality finishing and nothing more is needed than a few happy people. Which they seem to have in fours. Love, loving the delicate greenery framing the bedroom window.

“We incorporated beautiful wool pillows to our bed and living room for added texture and coziness this winter season. No matter your design aesthetic, it really is easy to stay true to it and to keep your home cohesive and comfortable even during the holidays with the added decor.”

Mixing wood tones helped to add dimension to all of the L & L spaces – which isn’t an easy feat! Sticking to raw, natural tones with cool hues meant that the varying wood colorings all worked cohesively together in a way that feels warm and inviting and begs you to stomp around in the coziest of socks.

KITCHEN

The most beautiful kitchen ever. With nods to rustic and whispers of industrial, this space is a study in neutral perfection.

Open air shelving gives the space room to breath while simultaneously showcasing perfectly curated housewares and books that the family uses. Proof that keeping a tight color palette and really knowing your style is the key to nailing the “open” shelf vibe.

“We asked Marble & Pine to create a beautiful arrangement inside a vintage dough bowl for a casual but statement centerpiece.”

Thank you so very much to Laine & Layne for opening their holiday doors to us! We are more inspired than ever (maybe a little frantic) to design our home with intention. To be thoughtful about what we bring in our doors. To build a space that is as beautiful as it is meaningful.

Happiest of holidays to everyone!

Design: Laine Layne | Florals: Marble Pine | Holiday Decorations: Studio McGee | Rugs: Loloi Rugs | Wool Pillows: Territory Design

5 Delicious + Gorgeous Cakes That Are Perfect For Christmas Dessert

We’re not here to protest Christmas cookies by any means. Who doesn’t love Christmas cookies?! We all do! In fact, because so many people love them, they are everywhere during the holidays. While no one would complain if you brought extra cookies to a party, we thought that it might be nice to mix it up with a Christmas cake this year.

These cakes are the perfect dessert to bring to a holiday party or Christmas dinner! They look pretty and taste delicious, so what more could anyone really ask for? If you’re hosting a gathering this holiday season, your guests will be so impressed when they walk in and see one of these pretty cakes sitting on a cake plate. It’s the little touches that make this season feel so festive and special. The little, delicious touches!

5 Cakes That Are Perfect For Christmas
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5 Cakes That Are Perfect For Christmas
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Style Me Pretty Contributor – Carly Robinson is a freelance writer and the gal behind The Cozy Curator, a blog that features all things life+ style. She lives in Hoboken, NJ with her husband. She considers herself a ‘modern hostess’ because she loves entertaining but doesn’t like all of the old school pressure that comes with it. Carly is a rookie wife, an ‘attainable fashion’ fan and a lover of food.


App CTA

App CTA


Photography: Carly Johnson

A Heritage-Infused Hygge Wedding at Holman Ranch

What do you get when you mix Thai culture and Peruvian influence with Danish style? THIS WEDDING. Natalie Choi Events set out to create an event experience that joined the couple’s unique backgrounds and love for Danish design – and boy did she nail it. From a zen garden hanging installation at their indoor ceremony dreamed up by Lambert Floral Studio, to a minimalistic tented reception that was the definition of hygge. See all the details at the full gallery – captured by Amanda Crean!

Inspired by Stephanie & Calvin’s families and heritage, we pulled from Stephanie’s Peruvian background and Calvin’s Thai culture to frame our design for their wedding. Having also spent time living in Cophenhagen, they wanted their wedding to be influenced by the minimalistic, clean lines that characterize Danish design. We set out to create an event experience that would celebrate the joining of their beautiful cultures and backgrounds. We carried this theme of “east meets west” throughout their entire day, beginning with the hanging zen garden installation – an idea that was actually birthed by our florist, Lambert Floral Studio, when brainstorming alternative ideas over the phone together the week of Stephanie & Calvin’s wedding once we realized our original plan would have to be scrapped due to rainy weather. 

The mossy, hellebore-adorned “kokedama” balls were designed to float around our bride and groom as they exchanged their vows. Following the ceremony, guests sipped on cocktails designed to reflect their Peruvian-Thai and Danish inspiration, with fun names such as the “Hygge Old Fashioned” and “Muay Thai Punch”. Guests were invited to find their seating assignments at our tabletop zen garden escort display, and were greeted with champagne as they entered the Rose Patio for dinner. 

Inspired by Stephanie & Calvin’s love of sailing and the ocean, a pale blue linen was selected for their table, which was also reflected in the cake designed by Jasmine Rae that depicted blooms tossed in the ocean waves. Our floral palette was bursting with color – electric purples, zany greens, moody hellebores, and luscious garden roses which danced on the table, set in handmade ceramic vessels. We kept the rest of our tablescape minimal, with sleek gold flatware and matte grey plates, to let our florals be the star of the show. 

Danish wishbone chairs were selected as an organic finishing touch to our tablescape. As a nod to Calvin’s Thai heritage, a lotus flower motif was incorporated into all of their paper goods, from their invitation suites to their menus. Guests were treated to a multi-course meal selected by the bride & groom to reflect their cultures, featuring dishes seasoned with Peruvian and Thai spices. Before the sun set (and during a moment when the sun came out!), our photographer Amanda Crean whisked Stephanie & Calvin away to capture romantic portraits as husband and wife. 

Photography: Amanda Crean | Videography: Patrick Ang | Floral Design: Lambert Floral Studio | Cake: Jasmine Rae Cakes | Catering: Paradise Catering | DJ: Sound In Motion | String quartet: Bellarosa String Quartet | Wedding Venue: Holman Ranch | Bartending: Pour Girl | Design & Planning: Natalie Choi Events | HMUA: Makeup By Quis | Linen: BBJ La Tavola | Paper Goods: Gatherie Creative | Photobooth: Chroma Photobooth | Rentals: The Chiavari Guys | Signage: Ettie Kim Calligraphy + Design

Family Traditions You Can Start this Holiday Season

The holidays are always packed with parties and outings but sometimes the best memories are made right at home. Get inspired to add a few family traditions to your itinerary this Holiday season. From perfecting your sugar cookie game to indulging in a day of holiday movies, let Sassy Soirees’ adorable family inspire you to add some special treats to your festivities with photos by Daniel Kim.

I absolutely loved the idea of capturing my family during the holidays in our home. Often times I sit back and try to remember what my tree looked like growing up or I would give anything to have non-posed pictures of my siblings and I decorating Christmas cookies.

Daniel and I were working a wedding together when I told him this, and he LOVED the idea of doing a Christmas lifestyle shoot. What better way to capture your family’s decor and traditions. I hope my kids will treasure these pictures forever because I know I will!

Fun Traditions to Add to Your Holiday Festivities

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1. Have a Christmas Cookie Baking Session

Sugar cookies, gingerbread men… we’re talking the whole shebang. And if you are on the hunt for a few good recipes, this round-up of holiday cookies is a must read.

2. Gift matching PJs for the whole fam.

It doesn’t get much cuter than the whole clan in matching pajamas. Find a whole slew of Family Holiday PJs right here.

3. Host a Holiday Movie Marathon

From the Holiday to Elf and Christmas Vacation, gather your favorites and prepare for a festive movie day in.

4. Create a Gourmet Hot Cocoa Bar

Kick your standard hot cocoa up a few gourmet notches with fun additions and toppings. Find our favorite Hot Cocoa combos here!

5. Add a little Holiday Cheer to Your Go-to Cocktail

From decorating your bar cart with holiday cheer to whipping up a seasonal sip, nothing says Merry, Merry quite like a signature cocktail. We’ve rounded up a whole bevy of ideas if you’re on the hunt. Peruse our Holiday Cocktails here.

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Hot Chocolate Recipes
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Hot Chocolate Recipes
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Photography: Daniel Kim Photography | Cake: Ruze Cake House | Makeup: Stephanie Neiheisel | hair: Mohawks & Messy Buns | Calligraphy: Tenn Letters | Interiod Design: Sassy Soirees

The Cutest Ways to Count Down to St. Nick’s Arrival

Advent Calendars have come such a long way since the mini drug store versions of my youth. Which I loved by the way. Poke a hole, grab a chocolate and you’re that much closer to the Santa Clause party. What’s not to love about that? If you’re on the hunt for something a bit more hand crafted and personalized, look no further than these 16 DIY versions for counting down to St. Nick.

DIY Advent Calendars
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DIY Advent Calendars
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Speaking of St.Nick, check out more Holiday inspired goodies…

Beautiful DIY Gift Wrap
Essentials for the Ultimate Holiday Survival Guide
11 Easy Ways to Save + Budget for Holiday Shopping

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Up Your Cold Weather Curb Appeal with this DIY Winter Wreath

Wreaths aren’t just for the holidays. We come from the camp that wreaths can adorn your door all year long if styled right. This pretty DIY from AvaFlora + Cadence Kennedy  is super easy to recreate and bonus, it’s adorned with the loveliest velvet ribbon.  So go ahead and get your wreath on with this winter version that will take your cold weather curb appeal to the next level.

Materials

Floral Clippers
Ribbon Shears
Wire
Green Floral Sticks
Grape Vine Wreath
2-3 Varieties of greens (either evergreens and eucalyptus or both!)
Pine Cones
Tallow Berries
Velvet Ribbon

instructions


Determine the shape of your design. Decide if you prefer a traditionally styled wreath or a design that is more organic and whimsical. The possibilities are endless so try to envision the direction of your design first. We love to create wreaths that are natural with an asymmetrical shape and using grape vine as a frame easily helps achieve that look.


Select your greens. We recommend mixing it up with different varieties of both evergreens and eucalyptus. Not only do they dry well they also have delicious fragrances. In this wreath we used a combination of coned cedar, shore pine, and eucalyptus with pods.


Select your embellishments. Elements such as pine cones, silver bell pods and tallow berries are some of our top favorites! They are seasonal, enhancing a natural, wintery look. If you are using pine cones it is helpful to wrap wire around the bottom of the pine cone, twist the wire tight, and then wrapping the wire to a green floral stick to create a stem.


Starting with your greens, insert 4-5″ worth of stem length into the weaving of the grape vines. Be sure to insert your greens on an angle so that the stems are secure. Once all of your greens are in place add your embellishments in groupings or clusters in a few spots throughout the wreath.


The last step is to finish off your design with some beautiful ribbon. Velvet ribbons are our go-to for the holiday season. We love to either tie the ribbons from the top or the bottom of the wreath with a simple knot, letting the streamers hang.

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Colorful Front Door Inspo
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Colorful Front Door Inspo
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Photography: Cadence Kennedy Photography Collection | Floral Design: AvaFlora

Proof That Embracing Your Natural Beauty on Your Wedding Day Is Key

When it comes to wedding day beauty, one things for sure… you’ll never regret going natural. Today’s gorgeous bride embraced her natural locks and kept her makeup look minimal – completely taking our breath away with her timeless style. It’s so important to be able to look back on your wedding photos in 30+ years and see, well… YOU! For tons of inspiration, including a fine art palette and floral magic from Esther Lamarche Design Floral, don’t miss the full gallery of imagery  – all taken by Daria Lorman Photography!

From Daria Lorman PhotographyThis wedding inspiration was planned and designed by Daria Lorman and Esther Lamarche to inspire the couples thinking about a small private-estate wedding. Two gorgeous designer gowns with a touch of color and stunning embroidery, a modern and fresh make up and natural hair look are aimed to inspire future brides to add more fashion into their bridal looks and embrace their natural beauty. Isabelle Boireau created for our bride a look that was inspired by black royalty. Our bride is a modern woman proud of her African heritage, boldly sporting her natural hair, and wearing a natural skinlike makeup. She is the Queen of the day and we wanted to let her shine. 

The first bridal morning look features a blush pink dress from a talented French designer – Geraldine Daulon. It was completed with handmade hairpins and a mono-earring with flowers that look like if they were made of glass. Tatiana Ashakova, the creator of Beretk! Ah combines her work as bridal stylist and incorporates most fashionable features into her collections. They all differ and you will find many unconventional techniques and materials. The second bridal look features an exquisite Myoo Couture designer dress with a touch of yellow color, which perfectly complemented our bride’s skin color. The look was completed with beautiful crystal earring from a Swiss designer – Della Bella Gioielli and a gorgeous crown by Beretk! Ah. 

Our bride wore a pair of Belle Belle shoes, which were her “something blue”. Esther Lamarche, the floral designer, worked with a fine art color palette: cream lemon, champagne, blush, cappuccino and soft green. She created a fine art bridal bouquet. The Belle Époque vintage Parisian kiosk in the garden was perfect for the ceremony. Esther enhanced the look and transformed into the most dreamy ceremony setup with beautiful assimetric flower frame and aisle floral arrangements. The dinner table was placed in front of the main staircase, decorated with florals for the occasion. It featured linens and vintage rentals from Madame de la Maison and stationery by Atelier Preszburger. Meri from Cakes by Meri surprised us with the cake inspired by our bride’s wedding dress. 

She used a concentration of techniques to recreate couture elements of the dress on the wedding cake. It was definitely worth it’s own floral decoration. Esther Lamarche and her team created a wild floral frame for the cake on a fireplace. It’s mango and passion fruit flavor was the perfect sweet note to end the day! Daria Lorman perfectly captured all the details of the day in her romantic style and Cedric Durand created the beautiful video. The wedding day usually passes so quickly that we are sure the newlyweds would be delighted to relax and enjoy some quality time by the pool on the Day-after. Our couple took a moment of relaxation for two in the swimming pool, which was captured by Daria Lorman. And Esther Lamarche enhanced the romantic atmosphere by adding a few flowers in the pool.

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Photography: Daria Lorman | Cinematography: Cedric Durand Film | Floral Design: Esther Lamarche | Wedding Dress: GERALDINE DAULON | Wedding Dress: Myoo Couture | Cake: Cakes by Meri | Invitations: Atelier Preszburger | Shoes: Bella Belle | Accessoiries: Beretkah | Earrings: DellaBellaGioielli | Muah: Isabelle Boireau Beauty | Rentals: Madame de la Maison | Ring box: Voeu Du Coeur | Veil: GERALDINE DAULON

A Pastel Farm Wedding With Whimsical Details and Mini Horses

It’s official, garland-adorned miniature ponies are the most adorable wedding guest we’ve ever laid on eyes on. If you’re in need of a major mood booster, today’s whimsical affair from Charmed Events Group is it. From Tango and Foxtrot’s colorful pastel floral arrangements to a “happily ever after” escort card display we’ll be obsessing over for weeks to come. For all the inspiration this day has to offer, don’t miss out on the full gallery – taken by the always lovely Jen Huang Photography.

From Charmed Events Group… Because we all need a little sunshine and happiness in our lives, what’s not to love about having the most adorable mini horses at a colorful and modern, farm wedding? 

From the beginning, L+J wanted to have their wedding exude in color and happiness, with all details chosen to evoke just that. 

They chose a color palette of sherbert hues accented by a dusty blue that brought just the right amount of whimsy to their day.

They chose a modern, equestrian farm as their venue and their ceremony took place in front of the pond that was on site, surrounded by olive trees.

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Photography: Jen Huang Photography | Cinematography: Owl & Tree Films | Floral Design: Tango And Foxtrot | Cake: A Spoonful Of Sugar Cakes | Invitations: Aerialist Press | Hair and Make Up: Chiali Meng | Farm: Distinct Locations | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Planning and Design: Charmed Events Group, LLC | Rentals: Standard Party Rentals

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Deck the Halls With Style Me Pretty’s 2020 Holiday Guide for Him, Her, and Everyone Else on Your List

As we head into the most ‘wonderful time’ of the year, we’re feeling like it hits very differently this time around. Social distancing and winter season worries exacerbated by a global pandemic don’t exactly bode well for the kind of merry we’re used to, but gift giving can help bring out the good vibes. If you got engaged and started planning a wedding this year, stepped into newlywedhood with your quarantine partner for life, vowed to your nearest and dearest that you’d be there for them forever and always and made a pact to [bridal] party with them in good times and in bad, or became friends with a whole new crew that will help you say ‘I Do,’ you’ll want to go about your presents a little more thoughtfully this holiday season. After all, a bride’s splash of sparkle can’t be touched…  

We’ve poured over the must-have lists and checked them way more than twice, to curate lots of favorites that we hope you’ll find SO nice. From sweet buys for your bridesmaids to gifts your mom will love, a couple things to hype up your hubby and not one single pair of gloves #notthisyearthankunext. And don’t forget to browse our Shop, for a double dose of [wedding] pretty, the finds are cute and creative, timeless and trendy, and quite a few are witty!

Start shopping for your squad right now, and take advantage of all the Black Friday and Cyber Monday savings on site! Your wedding will thank you 😉.

Photo by D’Arcy Benincosa

(Oh! And if you’re not the bride, but buying for one, we’ve got lots of ideas for you, too!) 

In fact, that’s exactly where we’ll start…

 

For the bride who has just gotten her ring   

Once the dust has settled and your friend, daughter, sister, cousin, etc. has come down from cloud nine, firmly planting her feet into the role of the bride, she’ll want to get a taste for planning. It’s not great to overwhelm her, of course, but helping her start her bridal journey with a mix of things that are fun and functional is very #bestbridesmaidever-ish. 

Trinket Dish

It’s not often that a newly-minted bride-to-be will want to take off her ring, BUT when she does, make sure the place she puts her bling is beautiful. This Molly Hatch daisy trinket dish is so pretty and it doesn’t scream ‘bride’ either, so she can use it well beyond her engagement.

Wedding Planner

Our bliss-ensuring blush bridal planner kit comes with a TON of checklists, timelines, and worksheets to help brides stay buttoned up with all their I Do to-dos. We’ve made sure to include everything that couples need to get hitched without a hitch, with enough room for notes that might even make meaningful keepsakes for future brides.

Guides to Plan Like a Pro

Want to sweeten things up a little more? Fill her planner with ALL of the Style Me Pretty Ultimate Planning Guides. If you don’t already know about our wedding planning guides, they’re the digital resource for everything your bestie bride needs to know in order to plan like a pro.

Tissues to Dry Her Tears

There will be so many emotionally-charged occasions for your bride-to-be (happy, sad, good, and bad), but ensuring her bag is always stacked with tear-worthy tissues is the trademark of a true best friend. We like how ours are both encouraging and entrancing!

A Cute Tumbler for Everywhere She Goes

Engagement season coinciding with the winter/holiday season is sweet, but a new ring and the flu aren’t exactly the best combo (and either is all the abovementioned crying). Hydration is key, but make it fashion with a tumbler that says it all. We love the confetti and the gold calligraphed “Bride,” not to mention, just seeing that word on the regular is enough to incite smiles and consequent wellness (a happy bride is a healthy bride, after all).

A Coloring Book for Brides

And yes, she needs it. Adult coloring books are total stress and sanity savers, and we can absolutely envision her breaking out this bundle when she feels her [bride]zilla coming in HOT. Now granted, a wedding coloring book on its own probably doesn’t sound like a Christmas miracle, but when you package it with a festive bottle of ONEHOPE bubbly etched with a ‘Cheers to You!’ message for the happy couple, it’s gold.    

For the bride who is starting to imagine her day 

Once your bride-to-be has all of the big-ticket things on her tying-the-knot to-do list checked off, she’ll definitely start thinking about her unique day and all of the details she’ll want to come together. So, in addition to offering your time (which will no doubt be cherished), you can get gifts that turn her aisle style-aspirations into reality. Details matter and these gifts deliver big on that end… 

A Box That Brings All of Her Day-Of Detail Shots to Life 

Details can be overlooked when planning a wedding, and just saying that makes our hearts sad, because we can’t get enough of them. That’s why we’re ecstatic that something like this heirloom embellishments box exists for brides who want to level up their wedding details photography. From vintage French laces and ribbons, to silk flowers and hand-made appliques, these treasured and exclusive heirlooms from the Claire Pettibone Atelier have been carefully arranged into inspiring assortments that make flat lays infinitely more magical. If you’re a Maid of Honor or even a wedding photographer or planner who is close friends with the bride, this gift is all kinds of amazing.

A stunning Guipure lace mask is a wonderful idea, too, especially if your bride is getting married sometime soon. If she needs to wear a mask, it might as well be beautiful.

Some Signage to Make Their Suites Even Sweeter

Her dress isn’t the biggest part of her day, but it’s still super important. She’ll need to keep it protected, clean, primped and polished, so gift her a hanger that will let her dress or gown shine in all those detail shots. Our simple wooden hangers aren’t overwhelming, they aren’t pretentious, they’re just oh-so cute, especially the silhouetted white dress! And even if her guy won’t be getting ready with a whole lot of fanfare (maybe just some bourbon with his bests), he still deserves to have his suite feel special. His entourage is high key important, too. Really, they can hang…

A Lovely Piece of Decor That Will Look Great Above Their Sweetheart Table

Engagement gifts that start with ‘LOVE’ will always go over well, and any bride-to-be would be thrilled to have something like this to hang above her sweetheart table – especially if it will be positioned near a wall and not freestanding. The hoop design is larger than life and really puts things into perspective about why you are all there: love, of course. We’d file this away for micro wedding decor ideas that make a major difference, plus once the wedding day is done, your newlyweds can save this for home decor (we’re imagining this hung in a baby girl’s boho nursery, with pretty greenery and silk blooms… but that’s just us!) 

Photo by Sarah & Ben Photography

If you’d classify yourself as more sass and snark than sentimental and sweet, then you can instead opt for something a little more lit. Our modern neon ‘don’t go thirsty’ sign is on-point for anywhere a bride and her girls are getting ready the morning of the wedding. And afterwards, it can shine in her home office, right above that gold metallic bar cart… 

For the bride who is prepping her pretty for that perfect day 

A Clean New Skincare Routine

For a bride who will be getting married some time next year, waking up on January 1st will feel like day one on her ‘countdown to bride.’ With a fresh start ahead, it’s kind of the best time to jumpstart a healthier beauty routine, because #resolutions and because minimalism and natural beauty are so important to a modern bride. We’ve fallen in love with the brand-new Lauren Conrad Beauty skincare line which includes cleansers, toners, oils, and creams designed to nourish the skin and keep both body and face hydrated, balanced, and refreshed. Like the rest of LC’s beauty collection, the formulas are vegan, cruelty-free, ethically-sourced, certified-Clean and Peta-approved, that way a bride can feel good about what she’s putting on her skin. And since a fresh and flawless face will be her ultimate canvas on her wedding day, starting the prepwork early will pay off gorgeously when she glams up or keeps things simple on game day (nope, vows day!) 

… Also, the bottles and cream jars are beyond pretty, which, going back to that earlier point about styling for the wedding morning, makes them both a useful and phenomenally photogenic gift!

The Secret Weapon to Beyond-Wow Brows 

A fresh face can only be made better by one thing: perfect brows. Every bride wants them and, to be quite honest, she should have them! If you’ll be buying for your best friend, sister, sister-in-law, get her something that seriously can’t be topped (it’s luxe at $225, but consider this a holiday, birthday, and engagement gift all in one). When we say that, we’re talking about LA-based, celebrity eyebrow artist Kristie Streicher’s Essentials Grooming Kit. Made with Kristie’s tried and true tools that she’s been using for over 20 years to create her trademarked Feathered Brow™ all over the world, the kit contains her favorite Rubis Classic Gold Slant Tweezers, Rubis Classic Gold Scissors and a custom Kristie Streicher Spoolie Eyebrow Brush all housed in a leather case hand-stitched and made in Los Angeles. It was inspired by a vintage manicure set from the 1930’s and it’s literally to die for. 

For the newlyweds who just got married 

Things to give each other: 

For her:
Any bride who might have just gotten married could be feeling some twinges of the post-wedding blues this holiday season. That’s why we love a gift idea that celebrates her new status and comes from the person she loves most. The Alex and Ani New Beginnings Necklace is the perfect thing to say ‘I love you, babe, here’s to us and a very happy future.’

For him:
Meaningful things will always matter to men, of course they will, but they also love things that indulge their own obsessions. Like sneakers. Hey, IYKYK. The Essential Shoe & Sneaker Cleaning Kit is a sleek, minimal, and affordable ($39.99) gift option from RESHOEVN8R, the go-to sneaker brand for hypebeasts and stylish sneaker owners. Safe on most materials and free from dye, the kit includes an all-natural solution, a microfiber towel, and 3 different bristle brushes in a 100% reusable and/or recyclable package. It’s very sexy, in our opinion, and also reminds us of something David Rose would stock in his Schitt’s Creek apothecary. #obsessed.

A Stylish and Trendy Herb + Oil Infuser

Hear us out: In years past, cool pour-over appliances and fancy espresso machines were among the ‘IT’ things to get a newly-married couple. Nowadays, the mood is all about infusion (food and beauty).  LĒVO II ($199 on Amazon) is the first infuser to streamline herbal infusion from start to finish, meaning you don’t need to be a trained chef, beautician, or chemist to enjoy the benefits of herbal infusion. From salad dressings to scented candles, there’s no limit to what you can create!

For the bridal party: everyone who’s special in the couple’s life 

This year, we’ve probably all seen our favorite people way less than we hoped we would. It’s been a real bummer, but TG technology exists to keep us connected and close. What we love about our Style Me Pretty Collection is that there are so many little things (let’s also commit to adding “something little” to the old, new, borrowed, and blue adage) that you can gift to your guys and girls WHENEVER you feel like it. You don’t have to wait for the holidays to send a card or a travel tumbler that says ‘You’re my bridesmaid and I FN love you!!’ That being said, you can give ‘traditional’ bridal party gifts, like personalized flasks or etched glasses to the group if you see anyone this winter. If you couple the presents with a request for photos of them using their gifts IRL,  you can collect and compile all of the clips into a video that you can stream the morning of your wedding…

And a few things that every wedding gift guide can’t go without… 

Pajamas
One of our favorite fashion and loungewear brands for brides and bridesmaids, Plum Pretty Sugar, just dropped their latest print collection – Encanto Coast – and we are absolutely ADORING it. The mint, cream, and nude palette is so relaxing and transportive, and even if physically we’re all still chilling in PJs on our couches, we can be virtually and emotionally somewhere else. We’re going going, back back, to Cali Cali… just sayin!

Photo by Jon Cu Photography

And stuffed animals 

If you’ve got a cutie cohort on board for your wedding, you’ll also definitely want to show them some love. 

For the girls: 

Style Me Pretty flower girl baskets ensure your littlest ladies have the prettiest place to put their petals. Imagine all the tulle, sparkle, and sass shimmying down that aisle and try not to smile. Spoiler alert: it can’t be done! 

For the boys: 

And for the boys, Style Me Pretty ring bearer pillows give your mini misters a really beautiful platform for two of the shiniest parts of your special day. Ring security reporting for duty!  

And we love the idea of teaming your mini squad’s things with something plush. The Little Market’s plush stuffed animals will entertain toddlers and tinies all winter long AND provide them with comfort and cuddles just in case they get nervous for their big trip down the aisle. Each of their pieces is hand-knit and hand-sewn by artisan women in rural communities of Peru using locally sourced materials. The best!

For the wedding superheroes that they are

If you’re really feeling generous (and thoughtful), this ‘Thank You So Much’ curated gift tote says it all. We love this as a wonderful token of appreciation for your vendors for their endless support, advice, and direction when it pertains to your best day ever.

Soft & Romantic Vibes For This Couple’s ‘Second Wedding’ At Lairmont Manor in Washington!

College sweethearts, Sam and Evelyn tied the knot before they graduated college when they eloped, so on their 5th anniversary they decided to do it again, but this time in front of their friends and family at Lairmont Manor. With soft florals crafted by Gather Design Company and gorgeous signage by The Fancy Cat Studio, the couples event planner Simply by Tamara Nicole put together their fabulous fete and Kerry Jeanne Photography captured all of the romantic details, love and the brides insanely beautiful wedding gown with cascading pearl buttons (insert heart eye emoji.) Check it out below….and the shoes…I promise you they’re that good.

From Kerry Jeanne PhotographySam and Evelyn met at the first week of their freshman year in college and have been together ever since. Five years ago, in “the most rebellious decision we have ever made,” they got married before they graduated from college. Though the little elopement was perfect in every way for Sam and Evelyn, they always felt like something was missing, having not shared their joy with the important people in their lives. On their five year anniversary, they hosted an intimate vow renewal ceremony at Lairmont Manor to gather with family and friends and celebrate their marriage.

Sam and Evelyn hired Gather Design Company to bring their vision for their marriage celebration to life. In a warm yet soft color palette of amber, mustard, tan, peach, warm blush, rosy brown, honey, deep gold, soft taupe, and warm cream, the design was floral heavy and featured upscale details. With the lush gardens and old-world charm of Lairmont Manor as their backdrop, Gather designed a floral-lined ceremony aisle and accent arrangements around the stately fountain.

Dinner was set on one long table under an outdoor glass pergola with subtle rose-colored linens, modern stoneware plates and delicate glassware, and contemporary flatware. Menus were designed on handmade paper by August and White Designs, in a nod to the historical Lairmont Manor, and acrylic signage and place cards by The Fancy Cat Studio brought a modern touch to the tables. The cake was made by Saltadena and adorned with complementary flowers. Rentals from St. James Specialty Rentals, BBJ Linen, CORT Party Rental, and Pedersen’s Event Rentals completed the reception design.

Evelyn wore a striking off-the-shoulder Danielle Frankel Studio gown with large pearls and Aquazzura pumps. Her look was completed with beauty by Yessie Libby Makeup Artistry.

Photography: Kerry Jeanne Photography | Event Planning: Simply By Tamara Nicole | Floral Design: Gather Design Company | Gown: Danielle Frankel | Cake: Saltadena | Stationery: August + White | Catering: Foodz Catering | String Quartet: Puget Sound Strings | Wedding Venue: Lairmont Manor | Getaway car: British Motor Coach | H&MU: Yessie Libby | Linen: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Cort Party Rentals | Rentals: Pedersen's Rentals | Rentals: St James Specialty Rentals | Signage: The Fancy Cat Studio