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

A Mediterranean Theme Bridal Shower with an Ocean View!

When planning this picturesque bridal shower on the Southern California coast, Sarah Schallberger, owner of Mulberry and Moss Floral Design, knew it had to be extra special! Why? Because the momentous event was for a very important client – her sister! “It was my one chance to plan a truly special event for my sister Hannah to celebrate her engagement” says Sarah. With her family’s roots in Italy, Sarah decided to incorporate the Mediterranean feel into the event. The color scheme matched the ocean backdrop perfectly, and with a setting like this, how could guests not enjoy such a fabulous event!

I think the color scheme is really what brought this design to life, which was inspired by the romance of the European coast and of course, the breathtaking ocean view at the private estate where the shower was hosted. Playing off of the deep blue water that surrounded the property, choosing indigo blues for the color theme only made sense!

Pastel blush and peach florals kept it feeling romantic while olive foliage and pops of red evoked thoughts of Santorini’s lush, bougainvillea covered hillsides.

The invitations designed by Pirouette Paper Company set the tone for “An Afternoon by the Sea” with a blue ombré watercolor pattern. We repeated this pattern in the signage throughout the party.

Sweet Salvage Rentals helped us create an elegant coastal vibe by providing a cozy lounge vignette, which featured a rattan settee, white velvet tufted chairs, some fun indigo poufs and indigo and macrame accent pillows. Indigo textured linens from Wildflower Linen added the perfect pop of color to the patio cocktail tables.

Now days, no party is complete without a flower wall… Am I right?! Being a florist, I couldn’t resist creating a fun installation decked with florals, which Hannah’s guests enjoyed taking photos in front of throughout the party. A custom “Sail Away With Me” sign hand-lettered by Pirouette Paper Company and laser cut by Etched Box completed the look.

Hannah’s guests loved sipping Sangria and Prosecco from blue goblets and beautiful crystal champagne coupes from Cherished Rentals. The “We met in San Fransisco” sign was something I sourced on Etsy – a small personal touch and tribute to the couple’s story.

Lisa’s Bon Appetit provided yummy eats with an Italian flair.

An Elegant Late Summer Wedding in Muted Tones at Chateau Ratměřice

We LOVE when couples kick tradition to the curb and plan their day their way! This gorgeous bride and groom decided to have a very intimate ceremony followed by a seated lunch. After the bride and groom were able to get some quality time in with their closest friends and family, the wedding guests were invited to join them in celebrating their day at a larger reception that same night – how amazing is that?! From her knockout CAXA gown to the trendy trendy round arbor from Frezia Fleur, there’s so much to love about this beautiful day planned by Svatby Podle Adely. Take a closer look below with images by Katka Koncal!

From Katka Koncal… The wedding day started the late morning with the bride’s preparation in her bridal suite. Following an intimate ceremony for their closest friends and family. This romantic part of the day gave the couple time to feel the love they had for each another and to enjoy the presence of every single guest.

After the ceremony, the newlyweds and the ceremony guests continued for a seated lunch served in the courtyard of the castle. Later on, the wedding planner did an outstanding job quickly re-designing the outdoor space for an evening reception with round tables perfectly designed.

The sun was just setting during the guests arrival and it really had a special feeling. The circle ceremony arch was chosen as the latest wedding trend. These oversized wedding arches decorated with flowers are absolutely stunning and can be personalized by the bride’s wedding colors and theme. The circle symbolizes eternity, which goes with the idea of marriage lasting forever.

From the Bride… Our day was just what I’d always dreamed of! We were able to welcome all our guests from all over the world in one place to celebrate with us this special day. We planned the schedule of the day so we would have enough time for us and our families. Therefore the first half of the day was reserved for the closest family and friends and later on our other guests joined us.

Our wedding planner Svatby podle Adély together with Frezia Fleur did an amazing job designing the whole event from start to end. The color palette and flower decoration was exactly how I imaged my wedding to be. Also the venue Zámek Ratměřice is a place we were looking for. Just an hour from Prague, our guests who had to fly in had an opportunity to do a tour across historic parts of Prague the day after the wedding.

Seeing our wedding photographs from Katka Koncal few days after made me cry again with happiness and smile on my face. Our day was just perfect and I am beyond grateful to have everything perfectly captured and I will treasure these memories forever.

Classic Amalfi Coast Wedding at Relais Vittoria Nerano

Five words: week long Amalfi Coast celebration. A dream wedding for many, but one that came true for Elya and Emilio. As a blogger, the Bride—Elya D’Angelo is a creative herself and inspires and empowers women through her fashion, travel and wellness tips. It only seems fitting that her wedding is brimming with beauty. She called on Sposiamovi Italian Wedding Planners to craft their special day. Soak it all in by pressing play on Zen Film Works video below and Claire Morris‘ imagery.

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This enchanting wedding was inspired by the beauty and charm of the Amalfi Coast. The warmth in the air, the cool summer breeze and the beauty of the sea inspired a wedding that was altogether inviting, intimate and fresh. As the sun set, elements of the wedding came together to create a dreamy and romantic setting for the couple and their guests.

Elya and Emilio set out to the Amalfi Coast of Italy with a day that would change their lives forever ahead of them. They gathered the most special individuals to take on this journey with them as they wed and took their vows. The night was absolutely breathtaking; filled with happiness, love, and laughter. Their wedding took place at a beautiful venue overlooking the Amalfi Coast. Elya wore a gown that was classic, modern and sophisticated to bring to life the drama and the beauty of the sea. The wedding pre-shoot took place on a boat heading to Positano where the allure of their fairytale wedding truly radiated. Before the reception, Elya slipped into a lace and silk number to evoke a feeling of old-world charm and Italian romance. The bride and groom hopped into a vintage car and soon after sat down with their guests to enjoy an intimate dining experience overlooking the entire Amalfi Coast, toasting the night away.

The entire wedding is filled with endless creative inspiration, placed so perfectly together. The floral designs and greenery were beautifully presented and brought the wedding to life in the most magical way. When planning the wedding, Elya wanted to incorporate touches of Italy, which included olive branches, keeping both the decor fresh and beautiful. The day of the wedding turned out to be much warmer than anticipated. Elya’s wonderful wedding planner managed to quickly come up with the idea to give each guest a beautiful white parasol, which added an even more charming touch. Sophistication, simplicity, and romance were elements Elya wanted to touch on as she brought her vision to life. Feelings of authentic Italian charm and warmth tied in beautifully to create an unforgettable fairytale wedding.

From the Bride… Our wedding was such a dream come true. My husband Emilio and I planned every detail and were inspired by the beauty, charm, and warmth of Italy. Last year Emilio proposed on a boat looking out to all of Positano – it was insanely beautiful! We choose the Amalfi Coast to continue our wedding love story. Emilio is Australian-Italian and I myself am Armenian. The warmth of the Italian people is exactly what we are used to and what we wanted to be surrounded by. We knew the charm of the towns and the warmth of the people would fit in perfectly with what we wanted our family and friends to experience.

We rented a villa and housed all of our guests for a full week. We wanted everyone to enjoy themselves and really get to spend time with us and one another. It was the best decision we made. Every morning we took trips to the nearby cliffside villages and went for long swims, lunches and beautiful intimate dinners. Since coming back, everyone reminisces about their time there, which is the best feeling knowing your guests had such an unforgettable time. We really wanted our wedding week to be rooted in what mattered to us most – family and love! We wanted it to be about togetherness, good food, great laughs and making unforgettable memories to last a lifetime.

Our official wedding day was set towards the end of the week which really gave us those first few days to iron out any last-minute details with our wedding planner. Planning a destination wedding takes a lot of effort and having someone that you really trust is crucial. Our wedding planner, Valentina, was so instrumental in helping us plan every detail with incredible passion and care. She listened to what we wanted and went out of her way to bring our vision to life. All of the vendors that we worked with were brilliant and so hard working. I will never forget waking up and watching the flower team set up from my balcony, bright and early. It just sent my emotions soaring and filled my morning with so much love as they waved to me, congratulated me and worked hard to make the entire venue a flower-filled dream.

Some of the small moments from our wedding that really filled me with unforgettable memories included the sweetest Italian granny. I was in desperate need of finding someone to steam my gown and reception dress. Our venue manager suggested the tiny laundromat in the next town over with grandma Maria who had been steaming wedding dresses for decades. She was just so sweet and overcome with love for Emilio and I. My short time with her filled me warmth and so much joy. We came to Italy for a few reasons and the love and excitement of the people was one of them. What a precious moment that will stick with us for years to come.

The morning of our wedding day Emilio and I spent some time alone, just him and I. We had written love letters to one another and wanted to share this time together, reading them aloud and soaking in these final moments. As we looked out onto the Amalfi Coast, everything felt just right and we were overwhelmed with feelings of gratitude. Having exchanged our vows in front of our nearest and dearest was the most special feeling. Our wedding came to life exactly how we had envisioned it – it was intimate, beautiful and filled with so much love and care.

After we exchanged our vows and before we sat down for dinner, I slipped into my reception dress. I had a vision of silk and lace for my second dress. I took a page out of the old Italian, classic films and wanted to bring my vision to life in Italy for our wedding! We rented a vintage bridal car and shot the most beautiful photos. I still can’t believe how this all came to life. It was all so dreamy. While our guests enjoyed cocktail hour by the pool, Emilio and I were able to capture this once in a lifetime moment that we will treasure forever. We soon returned to our guests and sat down for an intimate dinner. We had one long dining table with the most gorgeous tablescape. Everything was set to perfection. The authentic Italian food, the smell in the air and the cool ocean breeze set the mood for the most unforgettable time. We toasted, danced the night away, cut our cake and ended the night with beautiful sparklers.

We had one final day at the villa after our wedding and so we decided to jet off to Capri with all of our guests! It was the most gorgeous day. We rented two beautiful boats and took off to Capri to celebrate. It seemed like the most perfect way to end our wedding week and the best way to say goodbye to all our guests. What a dream come true.

Intimate Prague Elopement at Vrtbovska Garden

If I could go back and do it all over again, I’d do what Noah and David did in a heartbeat: Elope. To me, there’s nothing more meaningful than vowing your forever in an intimate setting without distraction. With the help of Julie May, their celebration was a garden-gorgeous event (minus the guests), with plenty of opportunity for Nikol Bodnarova to capture their sweet union.

From Julie May… Prague, the historical city of 100 spires is a perfect destination for a wedding! That’s why two charming men, Noah and David from Switzerland contacted us with their intention to get married in the capital of the Czech Republic. They completely fell in love with this city during their holiday and they decided to tie the knot here. Julie May has had the privilege to organize a stunning elopement in Vrtba gardens with a breathtaking view to red roofs of magnificent Prague right under Prague castle.

On their wedding day, they both wore absolutely wonderful blue-grey checked suits with a blue bowtie (as the blue is their favorite color)made by two talented guys from Suits up. Their biggest wish had been to have classical music as a part of their wedding. Therefore, we invited gorgeous cellist Mrs. Milada Gajdova, who performed during their ceremony and created a truly romantic atmosphere. Indeed, one eye did not stay dry. Mr. Vlastimil Kalaš used fingerprints to create unique wedding rings. The groom’s hair and make-up by Michaela Polomis amazed both the couple and us as well. The boys chose a simple floral design for men – white powder roses with lots of greenery by Infinity flower.

Last but not least, the marvelous work by a photographer Mrs. Nikol Bodnarova should not be forgotten especially her double exposure shot on film. In the end, we opened a bottle of delicious Prosecco from ‘’Prosekárna’’ when wishing the couple lots of love and happiness. After, they continue to the private intimate dinner celebration. In the name of our wedding company, we do believe that Prague will always remain as their beloved place in the world. We would like to pass on you this message: “True Love is unconditional. It cannot be taken away, nor can true love be removed based on circumstances or situations. LOVE is unlimited. It knows no boundaries, no color, no race, no gender a no species. Love is who we are all made from.”

3 Ways To Elevate Your Wedding Flowers

In my next life (or maybe when I’m retired), I will live by the beach and spend my days in the sweetest little flower shop on the coast. Blooms are by far my kryptonite when it comes to weddings (I could have blown half my budget on flowers). And I don’t doubt that many of you in the planning process are probably placing heavy importance on florals for your Big Day. But how do you achieve a truly personalized look with those pretty petals? We’re sharing a few tips below, alongside this insanely beautiful workshop shoot from Fleuropean and The Blue Carrot, all captured by Anna Doshina.

Embrace Movement

Gone are the days of perfectly packed and rounded rose bouquets. Don’t get us wrong, we’re not bashing that very classic style—but we’re loving seeing movement in florals. Rather than forcing the shape of a bouquet or centerpiece, the key is to embrace the natural direction of each bloom, stem and branch for an overall look that is modernly organic and incredibly beautiful.

Creating Dimension & Depth with Color

In most cases, blooms are really the focal point when it comes to a wedding color palette. Giving your floral designer color inspiration is always helpful, but remember—dimension and depth is key. That may mean being open to incorporating hues you might not have envisioned including. Maybe you’re not a fan of yellow, but a touch of buttercup yellow can elevate a peach, coral and burgundy melody like shown above. Putting trust in your floral designer is always key!

A 360 Degree View

Whether you’re taking this inspiration to your floral designer or hoping to go the DIY route (or simply want to create beautiful arrangements in your own home), this tip is one you might not think about when approaching the design of a bouquet or centerpiece—take care in making sure that your arrangements are equally full and complete at every angle. This means turning your centerpiece or bouquet as your work. You might not realize that floral designers do this! Being mindful of this creates a gorgeous finished product that will be stunning from every view.

From Anna Doshina… Last fall Emily (Fleuropean) and Susanne (The Blue Carrot) organised an exquisite flower retreat in the Belgian countryside entitled “Movement” that I had the pleasure to document.

Everything about this workshop was like a breath of fresh air: refined dinner table settings, pleasant walks along the fields, unceasing conversations about the rarest species of roses, dahlias, vines, etc. and passionate floral art lectures. This retreat is a great opportunity to slow down, disconnect from your everyday problems, resuscitate your bonds with nature and let your inner voice speak. It also allows one to take a moment to relax, make new discoveries, savour delicious meals prepared by a Belgian chef and create bonds with remarkable florists from all around the globe. From a practical side, the retreat lasts four days and includes multiple activities like a foraging excursion, floral arrangement demonstrations from the talented organisers, a tour of Emily’s unconventional flower garden, styled shoot with a professional model and a silk dying class using natural dyes. The setting is soothing and picturesque: rolling green hills strewn with fields, small groves of trees, farms and historic sites. What also strikes is that despite being based in different countries, Emily and Susanne, have that special kind of chemistry between them that makes you feel comfortable and cheerful at their side. Moreover, their knowledge and talent are incomparable making this workshop outstanding and enriching. Even if one has very poor expertise in flowers, taking part in this experience and soaking up the special atmosphere that reigns in this floral sanctuary is a pure pleasure.

For those interested in this retreat, Emily and Susanne organise floral workshops on a regular basis so you can follow along their social media to get a chance to unearth/improve your floral talent together with them.

Ethereal & Citrus Inspired Wedding Workshop in Cyprus

Upon first glance, this bright yet ethereal workshop looks like a real wedding! Staged in Cyprus alongside sandy beaches and sun-soaked skies, this gorgeous shoot had everything from real food to a marble wedding cake! Splendid Events took the lead planning every beautiful detail and called upon Sotiris Tsakanikas to capture it all, including bright pops of color and citrus-inspired centerpieces! Be sure to check out the video below by Oscar Studio and see the behind the scenes and how with the help of The Secret Owl this workshop came to life!

From Splendid Events…With compelling landscapes of hidden valleys, vineyard stretches of lush sandy beaches, and a host of Statesmen, international aristocracy and new Hollywood frequently alcoving, Cyprus feels almost utopian. Sun-soaked almost every month of the year and therefore saturated with colors, it has destination pretty written all over. For this very reason, when Sotiris Tsakanikas and The Secret Owl teamed up with Splendid Events we wished to present them with a multilayered suite of wedding inspiration and hail the new season in instant feel-good splashes of color and textures for days. We wished to find a vast venue which would provide us with the opportunity to set up in multiple locations, each with its own distinctive vibe and capsule backdrop and Columbia Beach Resort on Pissouri Bay was just the place. As far as wedding celebrations are concerned in Cyprus, more is more, hence our wish to bring together a sea of brands and creative teams to breathe life into this unique concept.

Swaddled by rolling hills studded with cypresses, bougainvilleas, Jacaranda and palm gardens, the day began with an elegant butterfly inspired boudoir session at the Master Suite. Maria A. Aristidou Studio created a made-to-order swathe of hand-painted butterflies and Naturae Design headpieces were matched to Leda lingerie sets for our bride. Panagiotis Assiotis worked on her early morning laid-back hairdo, and Niki Chrysanthou gave her free-abandon makeup with hues inspired from her stationery suites and our florals. And since butterflies drove much of the inspiration on site we couldn’t have chosen a pair other than the Sophia Webster signature Evangeline sandals. Letterpressed together with Nadia Hernandez designed a suite of hand-drawn invites, place cards, RSVPs, boutonnière assignments and welcome notes, weaving together tonal calligraphy and sketches of our venue in soft as moss paper, while the bride’s Kings Jewelry engagement ring and wedding bands sat pretty on The Mrs. Box Roosevelt, Paloma and Newport respectively. Wearing a second Naturae Design headband our bride slipped on her Berta gown from Primalicia and walked through the resort towards the gardens of the bay to meet her groom, dressed in a spruce grey linen suit and silk dove grey tie by Carlito, our groom stylist.

Our ultimate goal was to showcase how diverse Cyprus is and create a setup that would feature full potential. It might have sufficed to have a gorgeous venue to build on but as we like to have it here the charm is in the service. Beach weddings are usually thought of as bohemian or too laid-back, but we wished to show the luxurious side of a wedding just off the waterfront. We challenged ourselves to stay off soft pastels. Instead, we went for pops of zesty fruit — pink lady apples, pink grapefruits, and limes — uber large hot pink peonies and red protea pincushions. Drawing from the massive grey pebbles of the shore and the rocky surroundings we matched a seal grey tablecloth which contradicted the strong coral pink linens and florals.

Working with Mint Event Finds, we set up the reception table under a billowing drape gazebo with crystal chandeliers and Paige round-back dinner chairs, near the ceremonial aisle. We sourced vintage revamped pieces of candlesticks, cutlery, and dinnerware for the table set. The chandeliers used were restored from a retired al-fresco restaurant from a nearby village and the glasses belong to a 200-year private collection. Finally, we highlighted the celebration with something rarely seen on inspiration shoots. Real, delicious food.

Inspired by the famous still life painting by Severin Roesen, Pandora Catering went beyond any expectation and designed, styled and prepared an entire wedding menu buffet, laden with lavish seafood bites, lobsters, shrimp cocktails, fresh oysters, cheese and breadboards, sea-urchin soup and dragon fruit platters, mangoes, salty cakes and macaroons, finger treats and mussel canapes that not only added a magnificent punch to our inspiration but presented the way Cypriots view our celebratory art de la table.

To top it all we worked with Yiamy to couture actual edible cakes for the table as we are avid believers in treating guests with scrumptious favors. Our blue marbled wedding three-tier cake was pipped with organically grown real florals especially ordered for this purpose. Not all florals are cake appropriate and our selection not only coordinated with the rest of the blooms but was safe as was pretty. We couldn’t be more grateful for the stellar teams of vendors who made this possible and proved that Cyprus as a destination should definitely be on your summer wedding radar!

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Glamorous Pink Maryland Wedding at Oxon Hill Manor

Erika and Shayan grew up only twenty minutes apart, but their first meeting wasn’t until five years ago! Once their love bloomed it was impossible to halt that beautiful momentum and their fete planned by Claire Duran Weddings And Events is a sweet celebration of their union, years in the making. Not to mention, an absolute fairytale of a day. See it all through the lens of Asia Pimentel Photography in the full gallery.

Though Erika and Shayan grew up in the same area of Montgomery County, Maryland (Gaithersburg and Potomac, respectively—just 20 minutes apart), they finally met in 2014. At first, their relationship was long distance with Shayan living in Orlando where he had settled after graduating from law school, and Erika living and working in Washington, D.C. For their first date, Shayan took Erika to the Kennedy Center to watch a broadway production of her favorite movie, The Lion King. They have been best friends since.

It didn’t take long for Shayan to realize he wanted to marry Erika—he just had to convince her to say ‘yes.’ While Erika was planning a vacation in Italy in the spring of 2016, Shayan was planning their engagement. Shayan hired a local photographer in Venice to help capture the moment and popped the question during a gondola ride. They couple got married on September 22nd, 2018 at Oxon Hill Manor in Oxon Hill, Maryland.

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Wedding Dresses

Monique Lhuillier

Monique Lhuillier Bridal Fall 2015

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Spring 2016

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A Classic Wedding on Top of the World at the Little Nell

Today’s stunning brides exchanged vows at a magical ceremony complete with breathtaking views of snowcapped mountains, surrounded by their closest friends and family at one of our all time favorite wedding venues – The Little Nell! We don’t know what we’re more obsessed with… the elegant mountain wedding decor or the heart-melting love these two share! (Their sheer happiness in every photo is seriously the cutest) Guests dined at a romantic indoor reception teeming with birch trees and overflowing greenery, all planned perfectly by Gold Leaf Event Design & Production. Take a look at all the pretty captured by Luna de Mare Photography below!

By Luna de Mare Photography… Gracie & My Yen wanted a destination wedding their friends and family would love as much as they did, with an experience that they would all truly enjoy.

Set high atop Aspen Mountain at 11,212 ft sits The Little Nell, with its log cabin warmth and an incomparable view of majestic mountain tops, is where they exchanged vows. With the adoring gaze of their closest, the snow capped mountains and the tallest of trees encompassing them, they celebrated the union they had always envisioned.

The reception was a stunning display which included birch tree installations on each table with overflowing leaves, and candlelight twinkling amidst low arrangements.

Guests were served several courses by the renowned chef at The Little Nell and hidden underneath each plate was a personal note card written to the guest seated there by the couple which brought tears and cries of laughter throughout the venue. Executed with effortless style by Gold Leaf Events, it was truly a breathtaking experience.

Classic Pink California Wedding at Klentner Ranch

I’m going to make a bold statement: this right here is my favorite tablescape of all the weddings I’ve written over the years. Isn’t it incredible what lighting can do?! Every other detail of this day planned by Alexandra Kolendrianos follows suit—utterly gorgeous, completely classic and oh-so-romantic. Not to mention, those blooms from TOAST Santa Barbara are beyond. Michelle Beller carefully captured the celebration and did every moment justice with her imagery. Find it all here in the full gallery.

From the Bride… Ben and I were set up through a mutual connection in the late summer of 2015. Ben was living in San Francisco and I was in LA. After a few emails that turned to texts, that turned to phone calls, we finally set a date to meet. After many trips up and down the coast, I moved up to the Bay Area and in with Ben. The ease and comfort I felt in making such a big decision confirmed I knew Ben was the one, so when he asked me to marry him it was an easy answer.

Growing up in Santa Barbara, I always knew it was where I would be married. My parents got married locally, and the plan was always to follow in their footsteps and get married at the same location. With a venue change less than three months before the wedding due to the natural disasters in California, I was in a bit of a panic but our planner Alexandra Kolendrianos put me at ease and helped create the most magical day I could have ever dreamed of. When I first met Alexandra, I knew she was the perfect person to plan our wedding. I felt an instant connection to her and knew she would not only build the most beautiful day for us, but ease all my worries and manage the details so I could truly enjoy the day and focus all my attention on the fact that I was finally getting to marry Ben.

As an interior designer, the decor, design and details of the day were very important to me and became such a fun part of the process. Alexandra and our florist Kim from Toast Santa Barbara helped put together each beautiful detail to bring my vision to life. The ceremony setting itself with a dramatic stone staircase and incredible ocean view was breathtaking. Kim and her team enhanced it even further by building the most glorious chuppah filled with greenery and flowers. My lush bouquet was wrapped with ribbon and tied in were my grandmothers wedding rings.

During cocktail hour, Ben and I got a moment just the two of us in the reception tent to take in the incredible work the team had done. The tables were lined with loose floral arrangements filled with spring flowers and luscious greenery. The natural elements of the wood chairs, chargers and rattan pendants mixed delightfully with the the gold and silver accents on the table. Brenna Berger created simple and stunning menus that coordinated with the hand painted invitation suite and was a true labor of love. Every detail came together perfectly and was impeccably captured by Michelle of Michelle Beller Photography.

When thinking back on the day, the first thing that always pops into my mind is the indescribable amount of love that you could feel in the room. With our families, friends, and of course each other all together to celebrate our future, the love radiated and it was a feeling I will never forget. Thank you to our families and the incredible vendor team who made the day so special for us.

A Glamorous Oceanfront Destination Wedding at Solaz Los Cabos

Grab your sandals and your passports ’cause we’re whisking you away to the white sandy beaches of Mexico for this glamorous oceanfront wedding! From the intricate geometric design details inspired by the venue’s architecture to the modern color scheme of marigold, blush, copper, and crème… every moment of this day is wow-worthy! Lynette Dow of Amy Abbott Events had the events running flawlessly while Jana Williams Photography captured all the can’t-miss details, see all the beauty below!

How did you choose your wedding venue?

From the Bride… Our planner Lynette knew we were looking for an outdoor venue, with modern aesthetics. Solaz was still under construction, but she knew it would be a perfect venue for us. I got goosebumps, and teary-eyed as soon as we walked on to the Calypso Terrace.

Did your wedding have a theme? If so, how did you choose it?

I had a color palette in mind and look/ vibe I wanted. I was trend shopping for work a few months before we got engaged and saw a beautiful mix of marigold, blush, copper, and crème tapered candles displayed with soft linens, so when Ted and I got engaged I knew that had to be the color palette! Something about those color against the turquoise ocean backdrop made my heart melt. I wanted a chic and elegant mix of modern and boho. The vibe was fresh, bright, and modern wedding. Britt, our wedding invite designer was inspired by the architecture of our venue and incorporated a geometric pattern on the invite. We used the geometric pattern and delicate tassel as part of the décor accent throughout.

Did you incorporate any religious and/or cultural traditions into your ceremony?

Part of our ceremony was bilingual in English and Spanish. We also included the Lasso Ceremony; the lasso is placed around the bride and groom’s shoulders to symbolize their everlasting union. We used the same lasso that bound my parents on their wedding day 40 years ago. It was one of my favorited moments.

How did you choose your table decor?

I love tabletop! I had a vision in my head and Lynette just got it. We visited several rental companies and put together the perfect mix of modern, glam, and boho. The pampas install was the show stopper!

Tell us your fave moments of the day!

1. Walking down to our big welcome bonfire. I was so nervous/ anxious but as soon as we saw all of our friends and family cheering, laughing and ready to kick off the weekend. I instantly felt all the love and excitement for us.

2. Walking down the aisle was magical. I had a great laugh and a particular moment with my dad a few seconds before we started walking down. My eyes instantly connected with Ted. I could see he was teary-eyed and I mouthed to him “I love you.” It felt like for a second it was just the two of us. When our eyes meet it brings me all the peace, security, joy, and warm fuzzy feelings I need.

3. The fireworks were amazing! It was an explosion of all love and excitement shared by our friends and family. If you could sum up your wedding day in one sentence, how would you describe it? It’s like the best dream I’ve ever had. I wake up and want to go back to sleep hoping to relive it. Seriously, pinch me!

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Destination Wedding in the South of France at Château de Lartigolle

“I don’t know if a lifetime is going to be enough but we’ll certainly have fun trying…”, the sweetest words spoken from Bride to Bride. You will soon see that Jen and Rachael’s celebration is so much more than a dreamy al fresco fete in France (although we’re big fans of the setting!). It’s jam-packed with love—the kind that will make your heart swell ten times and your smile glow brighter. Darek Smietana is bringing that joy to our screens today in the form of these beautiful images.

From Darek Smietana… Although initially against the idea of a destination wedding, it quickly became obvious to Rachael & Jen that they should host their celebration abroad for everyone to come together and celebrate their wedding. The couple chose the incredible Chateau de Lartigolle in the South of France for a long weekend, also throwing a gorgeous intimate gathering in a relaxed welcome party at the sister venue Ferme de Labarthe. Hearty BBQ food with home grown produce grown on the farm offering a perfect start to weekend with that golden sun, making for an unforgettable summer evening. Nick, Emma & Chris were incredible hosts.

“We decided to have a destination wedding for a number of reasons: we wanted an outdoor, rustic wedding with more sun than the UK could offer. We also wanted to extend the celebrations into a holiday so the South of France was a no brainer due to the food, wine, sunshine and beautiful countryside. Jen came across Lartigolle online and before even visiting we knew it was the one, it was actually the only venue we visited. A very special place in a way that you cannot articulate but only feel. You instantly feel at home and are encouraged to treat it as such whilst staying there. Stunning, relaxed and not pretentious in any way while the food is the best you will ever taste at a wedding. As foodies this was a big selling point for us. Head chef Zoe nails it.”

When people arrive to view Lartigolle they are just rendered smitten by the relaxed and genuine welcome from the owners who have created a venue which has the perfect blend of french chic and rustic charm, staying warm in character while not too posing as too grand for itself, traditional with so many intelligent modern touches in an impressive masterclass of styling.

“Our planning weekend was brilliant. Breaks in eating (not wine) were filled going over details with Emma, one of the owners and our planner, who we bonded with instantly, and continued drinking wine and sharing stories with until 2am. The next day Jen had arranged for an engagement shoot as a birthday surprise for Rachael. It wasn’t something we originally planned but would recommend as it is a great opportunity to get to know your photographer and feel more comfortable in front of the lens.”

Both brides were made to feel equally special with a stunning ceremony… “We would both say our favourite part of the weekend was the ceremony, simply beautiful and just how we imagined it. We made our entrance at the same time emerging from different sides of the chateau walls with our respective fathers. The moment we caught a glimpse of each other was magical. We opted for a very personal humanist ceremony with a reading that was written by Rachael’s grandfather, read by her brother and a poem called Invisible Kisses by the British Poet Lemn Sissay.”

From the perfectly choreographed entrance to the breathtaking floral ceremony backdrop, Emma’s faultless touches of styling and sensitivity were so thoughtfully created for a gorgeous, intimate and celebratory atmosphere.

“A favourite personal touch came about for the dining tables. Since Jen’s father is a beekeeper, we made rustic candles for the favours which looked and smelt amazing on the place settings, bound together with our personalised wax seal, as used for the invitations.”

The speeches were incredibly touching with one especially sweet moment as Jen vowed to support Rachael to live out all of her dreams, saying “I don’t know if a lifetime is going to be enough but we’ll certainly have fun trying…” as well as hilariously touching stories from their best men. These included sweet childhood adventures to a general take on their appetite for life, travel and new experiences. Rachael & Jen are two gorgeous souls who evidently seem to belong together and showed everyone present why. The speeches finished with a quote from a member of Rachael’s family, that “Life is for sharing with someone, otherwise its’ purpose is limited. You and Jen follow your hearts. Life is precious, grab it with both hands and hold on tight.” Rachael then promised before everyone to do exactly that!

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Candlelit Fall Wedding at Chaparral Ranch in Aspen, Colorado

Fall wedding babes, we’re about six months out from those cool, cozy autumn days and that means you’re probably in the thick of planning. So, I hope today’s subtly rustic celebration from Bluebird Productions will peak your senses. A slate blue, navy and teal palette compliments the loads of greenery and ivory blooms (oh hey, Prema Style!) and also paves the way for welcoming a warmth in the form of the dreamy candlelit reception. None other than Tec Petaja captured it all so, so beautifully and I just know when the leaves start to drop we’ll be seeing fetes inspired by this very one.

From Bluebird Productions… M+B’s gorgeous fall wedding was held the last Saturday of September in Aspen, Colorado. Despite a long planning timeline (almost 18 months), the celebration took the perfect shape from the get go with very little changes to the plan. We were able to work with both M+B and their families to craft the perfect weekend full of activities, hosted dinners and the most spectacular wedding.

Chaparral Ranch, just outside of Aspen, was home to the actual wedding day. We transformed this massive riding arena into a wood-floored and smilax and velvet-draped area fit for the celebration that ensued. Guests enjoyed an outdoor ceremony and cocktail hour with plentiful food and beverage (and a beer truck!).

They listenedd to music by New York Virtuosi and the Wooks. Guests then found their way through a tunnel of hanging globes with escort cards into the arena. A festive family style dinner followed and fueled guests for hours of dancing the night away to Northstar.

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Coastal Outdoor San Clemente Wedding at Ole Hanson Beach Club

Prepare yourself for a dose of happiness in the form of delish coral charm peonies, the sweetest flower girl and a colorful California celebration at Ole Hanson Beach Club. Paige and Christian called on Confetti Skies to plan their joyous day, complete with blooms from Penelope Pots and rentals from Found Rentals and Casa de Perrin. The entire fete was documented by the vondys. with care, see it all unfold below!

From the vondys…. California dreamin’ came true for Paige and Christian at this SoCal sea-side beach wedding. This beautiful couple tied the knot surrounded by friends and family in an outdoor ceremony with views of the big blue Pacific, and the hills and mountains of Southern California.

Much like their gorgeous venue, Ole Hanson Beach Club, a historic Spanish-revival style building with ornate & original detailing, Paige and Christian’s wedding was old-school California glamour blended with pops of lush vibrant color and unique, personal charm.

Penelope Pots floral design and Confetti Skies created an atmosphere of bright, effervescent color and exquisite detail that perfectly matched the couple’s warm, bubbly personalities. It was truly a pleasure to snap this emotional and touching ceremony and get to know such a wonderful new family!

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How To Achieve The Perfect Bright and Coastal Design

It’s no secret that we love a bright and airy home! As the weather warms (finally!) and summer nears, we are even more drawn to the sunny, coastal decor trends that are starting to fill our feeds. But don’t worry, this style isn’t just for those lucky folks with homes on the beach! So how do you approach that laid-back, beachy feel no matter where you live? Interior stylist and designer, Maureen Stevens is here with a few tips on “How To Achieve The Perfect Bright and Coastal Design” and she is sharing a few of her favorite pieces to help get you started. Her design approach centers on “making subtle changes to your surroundings to give you a totally different experience” and that is right up our alley!

1. Add art reminiscent of the beach…

Artwork is a fun way to bring coastal beach vibes in your home. There are so many different prints with beach umbrellas, people sunbathing, aerial views of the ocean, etc., that will instantly brighten up your home and make it feel like a chic, summer escape.

2. Think organic materials…

Natural materials that remind us of the outdoors are a great way to bring coastal design into your home. From raffia to rattan, jute, acacia and the like, there are so many materials to choose from. Rather than over-doing it and replacing big furniture items with those which are made of these materials, you can incorporate smaller pieces like accent chairs, nightstands, side tables, etc.

3. Choose a color palette that mimics the nature of the coast…

Changing the color of your walls can make a huge impact on your home. By toning down any loud and vibrant colors by replacing them with calming hues, such as taupe or white sand, the colors of the ocean, driftwood, etc., your home will feel lighter and brighter instantly.

4. Go for billowy on your windows…

By implementing light and airy curtains into your home, you’re one step closer to achieving an effortless, coastal design. The light-weight fabric will ebb and flow when a breeze hits them, creating an ocean-breeze effect you’ll love.

5. Focus on negative space…

One of the things that makes the coast so beautiful is its vastness. It’s important to bring this sense of space into your home, as well. Sometimes, less truly is more when it comes to design. Cluttering can create a stressful environment, whereas minimalistic design can contribute to a more relaxed, enjoyable space.

6. Whites, whites, whites…

Have I stated white, and lots of it, yet? Whether it’s wall color, bedding, furniture, or textiles– you name it– white is always a good option. Incorporating different shades of white will open up your home and make your space feel clean and refined, epitomizing California-cool living.

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Ready to brighten up? Maureen Stevens is sharing a few of her favorite pieces to help get you started!

1. Large Coastal Art Print / 2. Belgian Linen Sheer Curtain / 3. Montecito Pillow Cover / 4. Large White Planter / 5. Shroom Coffee Table / 6. Reclaimed Wood Console / 7. Brighton Table Lamp / 8. Reclaimed Wood Storage Bench / 9. Medan Chair / 10. Chunky Hand-braided Rug

Interior Design: Maureen Stevens

The Most Flattering Wedding Gowns From Allure Bridals Romantic Brides Will Adore

Finding the perfect wedding dress isn’t easy — there are so many things to consider! Like, is it beautiful? Is it functional? Is it flattering? (Emphasis on this last one, please!) With so many options out there, the search for something that checks all of the boxes can feel like an endless one. So before you begin to sweat it, let us point you in the direction of some truly flawless options by Allure Bridals.

One scroll through these pretties and you’ll quickly fall in love with their romantic, figure-enhancing styles. They are elegant and timeless and will have you looking and feeling your best on your Big Day… which is what it’s all about, anyways! (Psst! They have men’s suits too!) So if you (or your man) are ready to find your dream wedding style, head over to AllureBridals.com to shop all the looks, STAT.

Style 9505

TBH, we’re a sucker for illusion necklines. They allow you to pull off that dramatic backless or strapless look in comfort and style… Sign us up! Paired with a charming tulle bottom that contours to your waist, we’re convinced any bride who rocks this gown is sure to look like a knockout.

Style 9520

This elegant bateau neckline is ideal for the bride who wants to draw attention to her top half. The sweet lace frames the collar bones just right, and those delicate cap sleeves provide the perfect amount of coverage. Yes please to all of these things!

Style 9603

Ohh, we adore a figure-hugging ensemble. With a sultry, strappy back and body-hugging silhouette, any bride will look positively statuesque in this crepe selection! And that bow in the back? We’re obsessed.

Style 9474

This ethereal dress is what fairytales are made of. Between the off-the-shoulder neckline, an illusion back, a tapered-at-the knee profile, and a lacey makeup, it has all the details a true bridal princess could love! Bonus: It comes with a detachable tulle train so you can make your royal debut a dramatic one.

Style 9553

Calling all curvy goddesses! We’re ALL over this dramatic satin skirt that clinches at the waist, only to be met by a stunning ivory lace bodice. Factor in some quarter sleeves and a stunning train and it’s guaranteed no turning heads will be turning away from this babe.

Style 9564

Summer brides — This one is for you! Picture saying “I do” under an arch of dreamy florals in this contouring dress. The scallop detailing makes it feel unique, while the sheath makeup will keep you feeling cool and breezy. Better yet, the nude lining is stretchy so you’ll stay comfortable too!

Style 9620

We’re a sucker for A-line gowns and deep V’s. And this dress is just about the perfect thing! Lace embellishments, a voluminous train, and a fun little bow — what more could you want? We’ll cheers to this one!

Outdoor Wedding at Oak Creek Golf Club with Custom-Built Ceremony Backdrop

When you’re planning a wedding in SoCal, it’s safe to say that 9 times out of 10, it’s going to be an outdoor celebration. And when the Bride is a planner herself (hello, Made By Davina Kim!), it’s safe to say that every inch will be beautifully curated and well thought out. With the help of Sarah Park Events and Iron Grace Rental, this fete featured custom-built structures, ridiculously pretty florals by The Flower by Yoori and a color palette for the books. Get cozy with Perpixel Photography and the full batch of images.

From Perpixel Photography… I had the honor of photographing Davina and Elliot’s wedding. Davina is a wedding planner, designer and stylist so her wedding was full of beautiful details. She wore a timelines, simple, elegant custom made wedding dress by Atelier by Dawn.

Iron Grace Rentals built pergola structures hours before the ceremony and really made the space warm and inviting with a european feel. To honor their christian heritage, they also built an altar inspired by an old church.

This was a vendor dream team with Sarah Park Events as the stylist. She incorporated terracotta with a neutral palette of blush, cream, and white. Davina gives everything to her clients so it was nice to see industry people create something beautiful and memorable for one of our own.

Sparkling Gold Thailand Wedding at Private Villa on Phuket Island

Like many Thailand weddings we’ve featured, today’s fete is dotted with palm trees, coastal views and golden sun. But after putting this one under the looking glass, you’ll find details that make it truly unique to Kay and James. My personal favorite? The unconventional and unfinished ceremony arch shape which as described by The Wedding Bliss Thailand, “was more story driven, as if saying that this story is just beginning, and there are many more chapters to write.” Is that symbolism romantic enough for you? Take a stroll in the full gallery from Saya Photography and Marina for Studio Ohalala for more.

From The Wedding Bliss Thailand… Kay and James met each other a few years back on a night out, and have not left each others side. Joined by their shared love for football (and they even support the same team, Liverpool FC), they started travelling tigether and soon knew that it was a destiny.

Their wedding, hosted at a stunning private villa on the west coast of Phuket Island, Thailand, was themed around luxurious sparkling white and champagne tones. Hosting a destination in Thailand meant for the couple that all of their guests will have an opportunity to relax before and after the wedding and actually combine this trip with their holidays, and it was one of the most important things for the couple to ensure.

We focused on sparkling gold, champagne and white tones for the wedding decor. A varaiety of white flowers paid a tribute to winter and multiple winter festivites, while sparkle added the liveliness that the couple loves so much. Their favourite wedding moment was also connected with fireworks — another light-filled effect.

An Organic Olive Green and Khaki Wedding at Runnymede Plantation

Trust us, this isn’t your average southern wedding. The minute we laid eyes on this stunning Runnymede Plantation affair planned by Tara Guerard, we instantly fell in love with its unique color palette of olive green and khaki hues and organic décor elements of bamboo, brass and palm leaves. Tec Petaja perfectly captured every Pinterest-worthy detail of the day. Prepare to spend a little extra time on this one, folks… it’s a real beauty!

HOW DID YOU MEET?

From the Bride… One of my best friends from college was dating one of his best friends from college when we were living in NYC. We all met up to go to a Reptar concert in Brooklyn.

SHARE A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE PROPOSAL AND ENGAGEMENT RING(S).

We got engaged in Tulum the first night we were there. It was just the two of us there that first night and it was a really private, special moment. The next day two of our friends got there and we had an incredible trip. The ring is a solitaire pear shaped ring with gold band. Exactly what I would have picked out myself!

WHAT WAS YOUR PLANNING EXPERIENCE LIKE?

Fun and easy! Tara & Soiree did all the leg work and each trip to Charleston to do the planning was a mini-vacation!

THE LOCATION:

Charleston at Runneymede Plantation. We knew we wanted everything to be outside because we both love nature and being outdoors. It was the ideal venue for that, right on the Ashley river with Spanish moss trees and nothing else. We loved the rustic elements and the fact that it was a “blank slate” with no built structures.

DID YOU HAVE A FIRST LOOK?

Yes. At Runneymede before the guests arrived.

DESCRIBE YOUR WEDDING LOOKS!

I wore a Lela Rose dress that was off white with a subtle pattern on the sheer overlay. Simple Stuart Weitzman block heels & tiny diamond crawlers on my ears. Jamie wore a navy suit and khaki linen tie.

DESCRIBE THE WEDDING PARTY ATTIRE.

8 bridesmaids, 2 matrons of honor, 10 groomsmen & 1 best man. Then 8 house party, 4 ushers & 3 flower girls – my dog, Runi & my brother-in-law’s nieces. The bridesmaids/matrons wore olive green dresses with a high neck halter and the groomsmen wore blue suits with khaki linen ties. House party wore various shades of nude and blush.

WHAT INSPIRED YOUR OVERALL THEME/STYLE?

We wanted it to be feel very organic and like a casual outdoor garden party. We wanted everything to blend in with the surrounding natural beauty and to feel like a big cocktail and dinner party with all the people we love, followed by a really fun dance party. Music was also a key part of the whole night.

WHAT WAS YOUR COLOR PALETTE?

Olive green, khaki, and wood & brass accents. Olive green table cloths, greenery, palm leaves hanging from ceiling in tent, khaki linen napkins and upholstery, sisal runner at ceremony, bamboo & brass accents throughout.

WHAT WAS SPECIAL ABOUT YOUR STATIONERY?

We loved everything lettered Olive did for us. The invitations looked like they were on vintage, textured paper with olive green calligraphy – very organic and casually understated. We went more modern and used fun patterns for itinerary & guest booklets.

LET’S TALK BLOOMS.

I really wanted a collected, organic garden feel – nothing fancy or too manicured. We used quicksand roses, ranunculus, dahlias, olive branches, rosemary, & eucalyptus. Soiree really ran with my inspiration photos and surprised me with final product and it was all perfect!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CEREMONY DÉCOR.

We really didn’t decorate too much here because the giant Spanish moss tree & Ashley River spoke for themselves. We did a sisal runner going down the aisle, simple wood pews and cross covered in flowers at the front. When you first got the center aisle, there was a beautiful, custom wood canopy overhead with drapery, white sheers hanging from it. Everyone had to walk under this to get escorted to their seats.

DID YOU INCORPORATE ANY CULTURAL, TRADITIONAL OR SENTIMENTAL ELEMENTS INTO YOUR WEDDING DAY?

I’d say music selection for the ceremony & dinner party was really sentimental and important to both of us. Every song choice was an accumulation of songs we loved, at some point in our lives. We also had a close friend sing a Leon Bridges song mid-ceremony and it was soo beautiful and special for us!

DID YOU HAVE ANY UNEXPECTED CEREMONY MUSIC CHOICES?

I think most of them were unexpected to most of the guests because didn’t tell anyone our selections. Families were seated to Heartbeats by Jose Gonzalez, Wedding party to Never in my wildest dreams by Dan Auerbach and I walked down to First Day of My Life by Bright Eyes. We then exited to Father John Misty’s Real Love Baby.

DESCRIBE YOUR RIDE.

Wedding parties rode out to the venue on trolleys and our get away car was a vintage, blue ford mustang!

DID YOU HAVE A COCKTAIL HOUR?

Yes! We used my family’s margarita recipe and served those as specialty drinks during cocktail hour

WHAT MENU ITEMS MADE IT A MEAL TO REMEMBER?

Literally everything from Cru Catering was incredible! We did a family style “tapas” dinner. Everything from shrimp & grits, BBQ quail, tomato pies, oysters, crab cakes, beef tenderloin, brussel sprouts, macaroni, and of course French fries!

DESCRIBE YOUR CAKE AND/OR DESSERT(S).

Bride’s cake: Layers of Creme Caramel, Lemon, Coconut & Cookies and Cream. Grooms Cake: Marcona Almond with Chocolate Ganache

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR FIRST DANCE SONG?

Don’t Like you I love you By Luu…We both loved this song and knew early on this would be our first dance song. We found it on a road trip one weekend.

WHAT KIND OF MUSIC PLAYED THROUGHOUT THE NIGHT?

We spent days making a playlist for the dinner and wanted it to be played LOUD throughout the tent so the dinner really felt like part of the party. Simply Irresistible played at the reception and they were SO. MUCH. FUN. They played a variety of old funk and soul and newer, more current songs.

LOOKING BACK, WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE MOMENT OF THE WEDDING?

The dinner. It was our first time we really had to sit down, relax and take it all in! It was so special to be sitting at that table with our families and wedding party & surrounded by everyone that we love. It was also the first time we got to really look at everything and appreciate how it all came together – everyone’s hard work really paid off! The company, food, décor & music made it the most fun dinner party of our lives!

WHAT’S THE STORY BEHIND YOUR WELCOME BAG?

Everything represented Charleston. My favorite part was the recipe booklet that included recipes for some of the food served at our reception dinner.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE ITEM YOU REGISTERED FOR AND WHY?

Tough question…. Espresso machine – we really wanted one and have used it every day since. Or linen sheets because we have always wanted some!

WHAT WEDDING ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUR BEST-ENGAGED FRIEND?

Don’t sweat the small stuff and do a seated dinner and first look for sure! Those are the moments we appreciate the most now and we weren’t certain we were going to do either in the beginning. Also, be organized/detailed with your guest list & addresses early on. That’s the most tedious part so it helps to be organized from the start.

DID YOU HAVE ANY WEDDING DAY SNAFUS?

Hardly! Jamie and I were having so much fun and didn’t want to leave the reception…to the point where we almost missed our own send off and everyone’s sparklers had been burning while they were waiting for us.

Soft and Romantic Desert Wedding Inspiration at Royal Palms Resort and Spa

This elegant and romantic desert editorial from Rachael Ellen Events walks you through the process of creating a wedding design that is unique to you. Whether you’re a modern bride with traditional roots or a boho bride with edgy flair – this gorgeous shoot proves that no matter how incompatible your wedding theme and dream location seem to be, there is always a way to bring your vision to life in a thoughtful, cohesive way. To offer up some inspiration, check out these gorgeous photos captured by Ashley Rae from this day, bringing together the rugged desert landscape with classic bridal style.

From Rachael Ellen Events… This design was inspired by real brides and the process of creating something that is true to their vision, location, and their love. Often these three things don’t necessarily blend, but with intentional details and thoughtful design, you can create not only a beautiful balance but a playful mixed design that is absolutely unique to the couple. In this case, the location was Scottsdale Arizona. This is the desert – the landscape is rugged, it is hot, and it evokes a more exotic feel. Our bride was absolutely timeless and classic. Her color palette was soft, pink, and very traditionally bridal.

Our design was centered around pairing the rugged dessert with this romantic, classic vision. The key to this design was bridging the classic and desert gap with romantic and edgy bridal details. The bride wore a gorgeous Claire Pettibone gown that was equal parts classic and romantic. The beaded, textured lace played off the landscape while the cape and lace created an über classic and romantic look.

We chose a sleek bridal updo and gorgeous, glowing bridal makeup. Her three ring stone engagement ring was the perfect mix of classic but not too classic. The groom wore a timeless black suit really emphasizing and rooting the classic nature of the design. This handsome look paired next to hers created a regal desert look that felt very unique to them. The day of details played a huge role in the over design success.

The paper goods, designed by Ink & Press Co. Donned a combination of luxe textures and romantic details to pair the desert with the romantic look. Gold foil on handmade paper with a custom floral envelope liner created the perfect compliment to the design. Other favorite paper elements included the art sketch florals as well as the scrolled name cards and boutonniere tags.

We took the envelope liner design and had this applied to the foam on their rosé tower for an unexpected twist on their cocktail hour. The tables-cape was made to look lush and opulent against the muted dessert shades of the resort. Using blush velvet, gold rimmed dinnerware, textured paper goods, romantic candles and garden inspired florals, we created something fit for desert royalty.

Instead of decorating only the bride and grooms chairs, we opted for floral decor on the entire head table. The florals were focused on a romantic, feminine side of the design. We used shades of white, rose, and blush to create dimension in the subtle palette while using textural elements like spring Spirea, Sword Fern and mint to balance the feminine feel of the design. Our bridesmaids held all sweet pea bouquets – one of our favorite 2019 floral trends. This allowed the brides bouquet to really stand out and gave them something soft and understated to hold. Our flower girl wore a simple, classic spray rose crown to complete the classic, timeless section of our design. Overall, this look was all about pairing two things that don’t naturally go together. Desert doesn’t have to mean bohemian – ballroom doesn’t have to mean classic – beach doesn’t have to mean casual! It’s all about creating unique interpretations of the location centered around what makes our clients unique and that will make their love story stand out.

Colorful Ohio Wedding at The Club At Hillbrook with Lemon Trees

If the first shot of this bouquet is any indication as to the colorful goodness of today’s celebration planned by A Charming Fête, you’ll soon see that a modern whimsical romance follows suit. Oh, and did I mention the reception features lemon trees?! I’m quite positive that every guest who walked into that room went wide-eyed in an instant. The team at Molly Taylor and Co. really outdid themselves. Jump into the stunning collection of images by Lauren Gabrielle Photography for even more.

From the Bride, Molly… Andrew and I met just before my senior year of high school (and right before he went off to college). We met through mutual friends since we did not attend the same high school. After Andrew went off to college, we would constantly text each other, spend our breaks together, and eventually, we began dating. I don’t think either of us thought we would end up in a long term relationship or eventually married, but we quickly realized that we wanted to be together, and even spent our college years in a long distance relationship! Andrew proposed to me in May of 2017, after we had been living together for 3 years and dating for almost 7 years. We were living in Washington, DC, at the time, and took a hiking trip with friends to Harpers Ferry National Park in WV, which wasn’t unusual since we both enjoy spending time outdoors. I had absolutely no idea that Andrew was going to propose, or that he had even been looking at engagement rings! He never mentioned anything to me, but he was secretly in talks with my sister and his mom to pick out the perfect ring. When we got to Harpers Ferry, our group hiked up a mountain to get a beautiful view of the river. Once we got to the top, Andrew totally surprised me by getting down on one knee! I was shocked and kept asking, “seriously?!” It was such a special day that I will treasure forever!

We really wanted to keep our wedding bright and colorful. We knew we wanted a summer wedding, since I am a teacher and summer was the best time for me to get married. I knew I wanted colorful summer flowers with bright pinks, oranges, and yellows, and we knew we wanted to incorporate our favorite color, blue, in some way. We didn’t really have any specific theme in mind, but we shared our color ideas with my planners, Somer and Lisa (A Charming Fête) who did the most amazing job coming up with the design.

My dad is a bee keeper, and Andrew and I knew that we wanted to use honey somewhere in our wedding. We gave little personalized jars of honey to each guest as a favor which also served as the escort card display. It was so special, and my dad even designed the labels that went on the honey jars. Andrew and I worked with my dad to fill the honey jars, and to build wood shelving for them to be displayed during cocktail hour. We loved receiving messages and pictures of friends and family enjoying the honey while celebrating Rosh Hashanah! Additionally, when Somer and Lisa talked about using lemons in our design on the tables, I knew this would be the perfect place to use my mom and grandma’s antique compote jars. My mom, my grandma, and I all collect dishes and serving pieces, so between the 3 of us, we used over 30 of our own unique compotes to decorate our tables and fill them with one of our favorite citrus flavors- lemon! It was so special to use pieces that belonged to my mom and grandma on our wedding day, and they added such a personal touch to our tables.

We would say that the best moment of our wedding was officially being introduced as the Weismans while entering the reception room and immediately starting the horah. Seeing and celebrating with our family and friends from all over the country and abroad was incredibly special. The energy from the band and everyone participating in the horah set the tone for the rest of the evening. Also, as big foodies with a sweet tooth, our desserts were fantastic and we were excited to share with everyone! Our wedding cake was amazing and by far the best wedding cake we have ever had! We served each guest 2 pieces of cake- one chocolate with salted caramel, and lemon with strawberry buttercream and lime curd. As guests left, we gifted them with pre-packaged ice cream from our favorite local place in Cleveland including flavors such as salted caramel and mint chocolate chip. Our guests loved these special and delicious, touches! It was so much fun incorporating special details throughout our wedding day and leaving an indelible impression of Cleveland to guests who had never visited before.