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

This Is Why A Little Bit of Sparkle Is Always A Good Idea

When in doubt, add a little bit of sparkle; you won’t regret it, I guarantee. It’s unexpected and fun, for rustic weddings, chic celebrations and every style in between, including elegant affairs like this one right here. Coordinated by 36th Street Events, their dashes of sparkle are just fabulous and Mint Photography captured them all. See this beautiful day below and more in our gallery right this way!

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From Mint Photography… Elizabeth and Sean had a beautiful summer wedding in downtown Austin, TX. The chances of rain were so high and the weather wasn’t looking promising as hair and makeup got started earlier in the day, but by the time the reception started the skies cleared and guests were able to sit outside and enjoy each other’s company all night under the stars! We loved the traditional and elegant aspects of their wedding while still incorporating a romantic and fun feel, especially at the reception! The pops of color in the florals along with the sparkle detail here and there created a glamorous look in a very natural setting! Laguna Gloria itself is such a stunning venue – Elizabeth and Sean really made the whole property come to life with their wedding!

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36th Street Events

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Royal Dukes Band

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Bringing the French Countryside to the Shores of Bali

When plans for a wedding in Provence fell apart, this couple turned lemons into lemonade and brought the French countryside (and a team of amazing vendors) to the shores of Bali. Incorporating the prettiest pastels, an amphitheater style ceremony overlooking the ocean and a petal toss bar designed by Call Me Madame and Bloomz Fine Flowers, this celebration is the perfect mash-up of these equally gorgeous locales. Pore through stunning images by Studio Ohlala and the cutest film by The Barefoot Bride.

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From the Bride…We had originally planned our wedding at a beautiful chateau outside Aix En Provence. I loved everything about Provence and how romantic the tones were, but when that fell apart it was such a blessing in disguise because we ended up with a Provencal wedding in Bali- which was a lot more of a personal, spiritual place for us. And I can’t imagine anything better than that. We had the whole package of pastel tones in the sea, the sky, and the flowers, the breathtakingly peaceful scenery, the magic of Bali, and to top it off an all french wedding team.

We had polaroids of all 90 wedding guests strung from the trees to make it feel more personal, lawn games, a pick your own petal confetti bar, donut wall, and my favourite which was the Splash Zone. It was a large canvas covered in white balloons filled with pastel and gold paints, and all guests got to throw a dart and help create an artwork. Later they signed the back and that was our guest book.

My favourite moment was definitely the ceremony. Our planner worked with Janice, from Bloomz Bali who could not have created a more magical setting. We had Mayan temple inspired arch, an aisle lined with blue and white chinoiserie vases filled with pastel pink and white flowers, and custom made pink, beige and blue and white linen pillows for guests to sit on, with a guitarist playing an acoustic version of the Little Mermaids “Kiss the Girl”- which was my favourite thing in the world because it was my husbands genius suggestion.

Our wedding venue was already the most beautiful place in the world, and was made even more so with all the beautiful details and flower arrangements. The staff at the Ayana Hotel were beyond expectation. For example they quickly realized that Joe liked tequila shots, so there was a waiter by him at all times with a full tray of shots, even on the dance floor! My gown was the most beautiful thing. I didn’t find myself to be the type to wear a big cinderella gown, and then I came across this Inbal Dror piece at Morgan Davies in London and immediately fell in love. It was simple in shape, which perfectly balanced all the beautiful detail. The whole piece glittered. I worked with my planner to help personalise the wedding favours. We had custom scented local soaps with coconut, rose and rose petals, local coconut oil, dried banana and chips, and tote bags with our wedding logo with gold foil labels. Our cake was essentially a naked victoria sponge cake, with an island touch in that the base was coconut. We can hardly get over how perfect our whole experience was. We had the best 2 weeks of adventures like river rafting and diving with manta rays with 90 of our favourite people in Bali, and just when we thought it couldn’t get any better the skies cleared, the sun came out and we had the most beautiful day of our lives. I’ve always heard and expected that little things will go wrong on your wedding day, but with our planner Alice from Call Me Madame it was literally flawless. Throughout the planning process she helped create the wedding of our dreams from the other side of the world without a single moment of stress or worry, and we’re so grateful for her. Most photographers in the region have a different style that doesn’t compliment the whole romantic provencal air we were trying to create, so we were over the moon when Alice suggested Saya from Studio Oh Lala in Paris, who also spends part of her year in Thailand and was exactly what we were looking for. Selecting the right photographer to capture your wedding is so important. We also found an incredible videographer in Kurt from the Barefoot Bride and between the two of them we had the best company and the most magically captured memories.

• What is one piece of advice that you could give brides-to-be? Have your wedding in Bali with Alice. I would also suggest to not stress on small details, and to have a friend remind you throughout the day to be present, because it really is the most beautiful day of your life and it’s so important to really be there. And if you need a summary of me and Joe;

Joe and I met 5 years ago through mutual friends in Los Angeles and immediately connected over mutual interests. I was living between London and Bahrain, and had been back visiting a year after graduating from university in Los Angeles, and although we lived on literally opposite sides of the world it was never an issue. We connected effortlessly and spend the next 5 years traveling around the world together laughing, expereincing and becoming even stronger partners, and now I’m lucky to call him my husband

Peek Inside Whitney Port’s Boho Bedroom (and cute nursery!)

Whitney Port knows her way around a beautifully styled space, but her latest and greatest designed by Donna Garlough of Joss & Main is next level. She wanted to incorporate a bohemian aesthetic while keeping things light and airy. The result is crisp linens meet layers of pattern, texture, and a pop of indigo. Tour this cool space plus take a peak at her son’s insanely cute nursery all captured by Nicole Gerulat.

The Joss & Main team recently teamed up with Whitney Port to redo a few spaces in her recently purchased Studio City, CA home. The sweetest spots? A new nursery for baby Sonny and a relaxing master bedroom for mom.

From Joss & Main’s Style Director, Donna Garlough… Whitney’s new space was a blank slate, and it was so much fun to look at inspiration images together and talk about how she wanted the rooms to look and feel.

We knew from the start that she wanted a collected, bohemian aesthetic in her bedroom and that she hoped to incorporate plenty of pattern and texture, but she also wanted the space to feel clean and airy.

Starting with crisp white walls and simple white bedding, we began to layer in natural and neutral pieces with subtle personality, like the woven leather bench and chair and a washed jute rug reminiscent of a vintage Oriental style.

Our team added touches of indigo, handmade baskets, and fresh greenery for a breezy, California vibe. By the time we were finished, we all wanted to move in!

In the nursery, we went for a gender-neutral palette of white and sand, and brought in touches of black, green and warm terracotta in the rug and pillows.

Plenty of natural materials like wood, leather, rope, and woven seagrass added character and texture. But it didn’t just have to look good; it also had to be a functional space.

We brought in a twin-sized linen daybed for cuddling with Sonny during the long nights, a sleek changing table to coordinate with the modern crib, and a crisp modern glider and ottoman for rocking him to sleep.

Photography: Nicole Gerulat | Styling: Donna Garlough, Style Director, Joss & Main | Furniture & Decor: Joss & Main

A Magical Celebration Where the Ocean Meets the Garden

Somewhere between the beach and the garden lies this insanely gorgeous Santa Monica wedding crafted by Callista & Company. Blanketed in blue hues, garden tablescapes and lush florals by Twig & Twine, this celebration is a stunning example of elegance meets beachy California vibes. And Rebecca Yale’s images? Worthy of a standing ovation. Psst… see the rehearsal dinner behind this celebration right here!

From the Photographer… Sarah and Claude were married on June 17th, 2017 at the Fairmont Miramar in Santa Monica, CA. The couple, who are originally from TX and now live in New York, decided on an intimate destination wedding at the Fairmont because of their love for Santa Monica. The couple met in a Barre class at the Exhale gym and started the morning off with a 6am private workout class at the Exhale at the Fairmont. Callista of Callista & Co. designed and executed the day to perfection setting the tone from the start with delicate cream and light blue invitations by Written Word Calligraphy, which featured lush cream florals with blue and green accents. The bride stayed true to her easy going style and wore flat Aquazzura sandals with dangly pearl earrings and very natural makeup with beachy tousled hair- perfect for their oceanside venue. The bride rocked a very unique blue/green David Yurman engagement ring and they paired them with David Yurman his and hers bands for the wedding day. The bride has a love for stuffed animals and included one of her favorites from her childhood in the day by giving him a little squeeze before leaving the bridal suite, where she got ready with her sister. Both of her flower girl nieces also carried a stuffed animal gifted to them by the bride- a bunny bride and groom. Sarah and Claude took their bride and groom portraits across the street from the hotel in the iconic Palisades Park before saying their I Do’s in front of just 30 of their closest friends and family under the famous 140 year old, 80ft tall fig tree in front of the hotel. After the ceremony guests were welcomed to a cocktail hour lounge created by Callista and enjoyed beachy hors d’ouerves including mini lobster rolls and cocktails with napkins that said “we met at the barre.” After cocktails guests enjoyed an al fresco dinner at a mix of round tables and a head banquet table decked out by Twig & Twine with floral tablecloths by La Tavola and beautiful white lace chargers from Casa de Perrin. After dinner the bride and groom danced the night away ending the evening with cake from the Butter End and Salt & Straw ice cream for their guests to enjoy on the dance floor or take home for later.

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Rebecca Yale Photography

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Written Word Calligraphy

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5 Fashion Items You Can’t Forget on Your Wedding Day

It’s safe to say that you won’t forget your wedding dress on the big day (please, don’t forget your dress!), but beyond the obvious, there are other important fashion items you need for your wedding that may slip your mind. Don’t forget these five super important items!

Rhythm Photography

UNDERGARMENTS
Like your dress, it’s also safe to assume you won’t forget to put underwear on that morning. But many brides opt for something different than their daily undergarments on their wedding day. Whether you’re wearing something pretty or something practical (hello, Spanx), make sure you pack it along with you—and don’t forget about the right bra! A bra can completely change the way your dress looks, so try to figure out what style you will wear soon after you find the dress and hang it on the hanger with your gown.

A bra can completely change the way your dress looks, so try to figure out what style you will wear soon after you find the dress and hang it on the hanger with your gown.

Honey Honey Photography

JEWELRY
Are you planning to wear your grandmother’s engagement ring as you walk down the aisle? Or did your fiancé gift you with a gorgeous pair of earrings to wear with your dress? Try to put these items in the bag with your wedding dress—this way you can be sure you won’t forget them and they’ll stay unharmed throughout the chaos of packing the nights leading up to the big day. If your gown is in the possession of someone else, enlist your mother or maid of honor to hold onto the jewelry for you and bring it to

If your gown is in the possession of someone else, enlist your mother or maid of honor to hold onto the jewelry for you and bring it to your getting-ready spot with them in the morning.

Greg Finck Photography

FASHION TAPE
We all hope nothing will go wrong on our wedding day, but the chances of a fashion emergency happening to either you or your bridesmaids is relatively high. Prepare a little emergency kit just in case, and be sure to include fashion tape. The tape will help if anyone’s dress should tear or a zipper malfunctions. A needle and thread and safety pins are also good additions to your kit.

A needle and thread and safety pins are also good additions to your kit.

Hello Blue Photo

MORNING OF OUTFIT
It’s likely that your photographer will be there first thing in the morning to capture you putting on your dress and spending time with your bridesmaids before the big moment. Because of this, many brides plan out a cute outfit to wear while they get ready. Whether you bought a monogrammed pair of pajamas or are wearing a robe with your new last name embroidered on the back, don’t forget it!

Be sure to pack sandals or slippers that you can throw on should you need to go anywhere before getting dressed, too.

Jana Williams Photography

DANCING SHOES
You may insist that your wedding shoes are comfortable, but after being on your feet all day, even ballet flats can start to hurt. Throw a pair of worn-in shoes to bring with you to the venue, whether they are simply flip flops (remember, if your gown is long, you won’t see them!) or a cute pair of flats that go with your dress.

Your feet will thank you as the clock hits midnight and you’re still on the dance floor.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Jessica Tzikas is a freelance writer, editor, and content manager from South Florida, who recently moved back to the sunshine state after living in Philadelphia for the past few years. When she isn’t writing, you can find her reading by the beach, practicing yoga, and exploring nearby towns with her new husband.]

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Jana Williams Photography

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Get 3x the Inspo From This Mykonos Wedding Workshop

It’s a rare treat when we get to showcase not one, not two, but three talented photographers’ work in a single feature, so be prepared for an extra dose of lovely. Below, Sotiris Tsakanikas, Anna Roussos, and Gianluca + Mary Adovasio share their photographs from The Secret Owl, a dreamy wedding photography workshop held at the famous windmills on Mykonos. And if you’re longing for more, WedColors Cinematography captured behind-the-scenes footage along with a sneak peak of the workshop’s other magical vignettes designed by De Plan V.

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Envisioning a young pair of heavenly creatures who jet off to the most sought after Greek summer destination, we took this photoshoot to the iconic windmills, a landmark of the Mykonos’s rich, virile past. A symbol of hope, growth, and the repeated circle of life, the 16th-century grain refineries overlook the hill of Alefkandra like a line of eternal guardians of the land. Delicate earth tones and dusky soft pinks surround the snow-white, spherical shapes, which along with the Cycladic-blue painted doors made for the perfect rustic island-hopping setting.

Reflecting on the lavish ancient Greek nuptial feasts, De Plan V brought the details to life using gorgeous rose gold, claret, and Persian apple (the name for “peach” in antiquity) accents in their bold floral arrangements. The wedding stationery by Atelier Invitations in watercolors and calligraphy reflected the hues and softness of native flora caressed by the sunset. Menus and guest tags were neatly tucked under rhubarb-hued cloth napkins, embellished with mother-of-pearl rings. Roman glass, amber tone candlestick holders, and dainty patterned porcelain (alluding to the old artisanal technique of Greek isle embroidery) by White Lilac created a medley of elegance and grace for the couple’s reception. The beautiful marble peach and white wedding cake by Baskit exquisitely set the table for this intimate dining experience.

We loved how Eleni Balkouli from Love4Wed styled the couple. The Bride’s wedding dress by Katia Delatola – with its delicate tulle epaulets, a diaphanous silk cutout, and open back – was ideal for the flyaway silhouette of a young Bride and perfectly matched the Groom’s understated dandy-cut tuxedo, hand-tailored by Teti Charitou.

The Secret Owl is an exclusive suite of fine-art wedding photography workshops in Greece, established and curated by Sotiris Tsakanikas. Inspired by the many faces as well as the cultural, artistic, and historical layers of the land, his courses co-mentor with wedding industry-leading vendors focus on the development of a design-filled branding philosophy, elevating expediency and a unique visual language.

An Anniversary Shoot With Sweet Kisses, Beautiful Blooms And…. Turkeys!?

I dare you to find an anniversary shoot I don’t go gaga over. But find one that I totally, wholeheartedly adore, as in can’t stop talking about for days? That’s a bit more of a challenge but… you’re in luck because here we are! This shoot by Laura Ann Miller has me all heart eyed – and looking at turkeys in a whole new light. The icing on the cake? We even have a clip from LAM Cinema of it all. Happy Thursday indeed!

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From Laura Ann Miller… These two lovebirds celebrated their wedding anniversary on a farm in Missouri, and it was pure springtime magic. They reminisced the past couple of years of marriage, and stole sweet kisses underneath the blooming trees. It was the perfect anniversary date! Not to mention, their session got photo bombed by a few turkeys – and no one was mad about that! So much fun!! They ended their date as any couple should, with a picnic and bubbly!

Get Ready to Get Inspired With This Country Chic Engagement Shoot

This may be one of my favorite engagement shoots yet. Yes, I’m putting that declaration out there, loudly and proudly; it’s just that good. We Are Origami captured this chic-meets-country styled engagement session… and I can’t stop staring. With the stylish attire and retro car, these two cuties are beyond cool and I’m left feeling inspired and excited – see what all my fuss is about right this way!

From We Are Origami… This was one of my favourite engagement sessions to date! Nathalie and Brendan flew all the way over from Singapore to have their session shot by us in the beautiful Summerlees Estate and their brief was a little different to what we generally shoot; they wanted something edgy, bold and reflective of their love for cars captured on film! It’s always fun trying something new, and it’s even more awesome when it turns out just the way you wanted.

From the Bride-to-be… As you can see from the shoot, Brendan is a car fanatic, a really really HUGE car fanatic. And he remembers facts and figures about automotive history like they are imprinted on his brain, but he doesn’t remember what he had for dinner a few nights ago, and he often forgets when he last placed his car keys or wallet.

Brendan proposed in Austria, in a restaurant that was converted from an old underground wine cellar under a cathedral. He had the waiter balance the ring on the dessert. It was sweet, a little bashful, unrehearsed and completely unexpected.

A Fun + Festive Welcome to the Wedding Weekend

Kicking off your wedding weekend with a fun and festive welcome dinner is always a good idea. Add in a team of superstar vendors including Callista + Company, Found Vintage Rentals, La Tavola, Casa de Perrin, and The Butter End Cakery, and it’s guaranteed to be phenomenal! Rebecca Yale Photography was there to capture this South of the Border themed celebration plus the rest of the wedding weekend, all of which we can’t stop talking about – so stay tuned, because we’re sharing more with you later today. Spoiler alert: The wedding is just as amazing as the welcome dinner!

From Rebecca Yale Photography… Part one of Sarah and Claude’s intimate destination wedding in Santa Monica kicked off with a South of the Border themed welcome dinner as a nod to their Texas roots and shared love of Mexican cuisine. The dinner was held at the Fairmont Miramar where all the guests were staying and the wedding would be taking place the next day. The Bride and Groom wanted all of their guests to have a relaxing evening after a day of travel from all across the country, so Callista of Callista & Co. dreamt up the perfect fiesta on the hotel’s Sunset Terrace right on Ocean Avenue.

Sarah and Claude, originally from Texas and now living in New York, spent the afternoon exploring the Santa Monica Pier before heading back to the hotel to welcome their guests for an evening of margaritas and tacos. Pink by Peach created whimsically calligraphed tan and white invitations wrapped in leather which set the fun tone for the evening. Guests were welcomed at the entrance to the Sunset Terrace with a bar filled with a beautiful display of Casa de Perrin goblets and miniature bottles of Casamigos tequila with hand calligraphed tags with each guests name on them, which matched the wedding invitation. A candy bar with Mexican candies was also set up on the dessert table as party favors for guests to take back to their rooms and enjoy during the weekend. High top cocktail tables were set up around the terrace with bright linens and florals with chips, guacamole, and salsa at each table. The Fairmont set up an elaborate buffet station with a taco bar and classic Mexican desserts of churros and flan for dessert. Guests enjoyed their tacos and tequila while the sun set over the Pacific and mariachis playing in the background.

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Rebecca Yale Photography

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Dream Winter Wedding Overlooking Ski Slopes in France

I cannot imagine a wedding that captures the magical essence of winter more than this one right here. The couple, who live in Abu Dhabi, enlisted the help of the Haute Wedding team to create a glamorous, snowy celebration at a picturesque French Alps chateau, Courchevel. Photographed by Le Secret D’Audrey, get lost in this alpine wedding, with even more awaiting you in the film below by Airsnap.

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From Haute Wedding… K and A have known each other since they were two years old, and over their adult years, their relationship blossomed into a beautiful love story that many people can only dream of. K and A live in Dubai, grew up in the UK, and chose to marry in the fairytale setting of Courchevel with the snowy mountains, chic hotels, and endless miles of skiing surrounding them. The ceremony was held on a beautiful terrace overlooking the ski slopes. Fairy lights, candles, and snowfall made this twilight ceremony absolutely magical! The black-tie dress code was up to par with red-carpet glamour, with guests dressed to sheer perfection. The reception at the authentic chalet restaurant, with huge windows and exposed beams, boasted excellent French cuisine, top-notch service, and a unique mountain setting that winter weddings are made of!

The Bride and Groom prepared for the big day surrounded by their dearest loved ones. The Bride put on her custom gown inspired by Elie Saab and just dripping in Swarovski crystals, then she delicately buttoned up her gown and put on her beautiful Sarah Jessica Parker satin bow shoes. She had a moment with the women closest to her before she revealed the dress to her Bridesmaids. Their faces lit up as they ran into the room to celebrate together. Easy to say it was the perfect morning in the ladies suite. Meanwhile in the Groom’s suite, all of the guys were cheering to the good years and all of the new adventures yet to come. Straightening their bow ties and buttoning their tree-stamped cuff links, these gentlemen came prepared. After swapping a few stories, all the guys patted the Groom on the back – he was off to finally see his Bride for the first time. The Groom was overlooking the white mountain side, past the snow covered chalets and over the quiet town in a moment of calm before the big day when his Bride walked up quietly. He turned around to see his gorgeous Bride gleaming as bright as her gown! They shared those few precious minutes together as they prepared for their forever moment.

From the Bride… Alex and I met at an early age – two and four to be exact! We have been family friends for over 20 years, but it wasn’t until our parents decided to set us up romantically that we actually got to know each other. That was over six years ago. Since then, I have moved to Australia for one year to study, followed by London to join Alex in the city, and now we are living in the Middle East! We chose Courchevel 1850 due to our love of skiing, the snow, and the beautiful alpine setting. Genepi on tap was also an added bonus! It is also a contrast to where we live now in Abu Dhabi.

Our wedding was faultless from start to finish, thanks to Haute Wedding. It was a logistically difficult venue to access, however what we saw as a challenge, we turned into an adventure. We were surrounded by friends and family at a picturesque venue, snow on cue during our vows, elegant flowers, candles, fabulous jazz band, and French food and wine to die for. All readings and speeches were both emotional and light hearted and words that we will treasure forever. We have been so lucky to capture all of this thanks to Audrey Paris and Airsnap, with our timeless photos and videos.

Despite the formal black tie dress code, our wedding was relaxed and laid back. We wanted to make all guests feel comfortable, focusing on happiness and love rather than the formality of the wedding. We did this by allowing guests to bring alcohol into the ceremony, choosing upbeat modern songs during the ceremony, hiring an MC who made everyone cry with laughter (also a very close family friend), and offering a round of Genepi to get guests in the mood for a lot of dancing!

This magical day was followed by another seamless, magnificent day spent at Le Cap Horn. The food was outstanding, the weather was cold but sunny, and everyone was in high spirits.

Living in Abu Dhabi and getting married in Courchevel sounds like no easy task, however Monica and her team made the whole process an enjoyable and seamless one. Monica was always on hand to answer any queries and provided only the best suppliers. Thank you again, Monica, for finding us our dream wedding venue and creating such a memorable and magical wedding. We really appreciate the amount of effort you put into making our wedding the “wedding of the year” and “an unbeatable wedding” ( quoted by our friends, not us!).

Vienna Wedding with an Imperial Vibe (and a Jaw-Dropping Dress!)

There are dress trains and then there are dress TRAINS. This one is my darlings, is next level. The Bride’s entire look is perfection for this imperially beautiful fete planned by A Very Beloved Wedding. From the historic venue to the gilded reception, your inner princess will light up when you feast your eyes on it all, captured by love is my favorite color.

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Words from the sister of the bride… Alena & Josh are a very special couple. They’ve known each other for a very long time and found their way back to one another in recent years. Their relationship has weathered many storms up to this point, which is a good preparation for what lies ahead in marriage.

Alena is a very special girl – my only sister. She likes pretty things, adores horses and is passionate about helping and caring for others. Josh is a thoughtful man of God who is willing to continuously improve himself and those under his leadership.

I believe through their marriage, their love, their passion and hope for life, their care and their willingness to share their lives – many will find their way back to God, not for religion’s sake but for the transformation of lives and the discovery and fulfillment of purpose. We were blessed to be able to take part in the union of these two lovebirds, and may their love story inspire and encourage us all.

Words from A Very Beloved Wedding… A truly unique couple, with so much love and positive energy for each other and the world that surrounds them with a true conviction to make this world a better place for all of us. Great human beings that will stay in our hearts for ever.

We created a timeless romantic fusion between imperial classic elegance and intimate fun. Both the ceremony and the dinner were held in the place that guards Ruben’s treasures in Vienna: the Garden Palace of Liechtenstein. The dinner took place in the grand baroque Hercules Hall. The colors of the wedding and style of the blooms were chosen to bridge and fusionate the colors found at the classic baroque Garden Palace of Liechtenstein and set the tone of the couple’s loving relationship.

What To Do If You Have Wedding Dress Sticker Shock

It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for–time to buy the most important dress of your life. You’ve watched all of the TLC shows, flipped through all the wedding dress galleries on SMP, and narrowed down the styles you love…but when you see the price of your dream dress, your jaw drops. After all, this is all for a gown you’ll only wear once!

Vasia Photography

Going into debt—especially for a dress—isn’t a great way to start a marriage. If you’re paying for your wedding yourself, or if your attire slice of the budget pie simply isn’t that large, there are still ways to go about finding a dress you’ll feel great in.

Have a dress made.
Although this seems like it’d be even more expensive, when you’re having a dress made, you can work with a dressmaker to choose more affordable fabrics, bringing the cost way down. You also won’t need any alterations like you will from a mass-produced wedding gown.

Christine Clark Photography

Consider a dress from a non-bridal shop.
If it fits the vibe and aesthetic of your wedding, consider perusing stores like Nordstrom, J.Crew, or ASOS for longer white gowns. By getting a dress that isn’t technically a bridal gown, you can get the look you’re going for without dropping some major dollar.

Look into renting.
Borrowing Magnolia is a popular wedding dress rental boutique, and Rent the Runway offers wedding gowns as well. You receive a dress, rock it on your wedding day, and return it.

Caught The Light

Search online for your dream dress.
If you have a certain gown in mind, scour eBay or online wedding forums to see if anyone’s selling! There are entire Facebook groups dedicated to wedding dress swapping—if you look at the right time, luck may work in your favor. Remember—you can always sell your dress when you’re done wearing it, too!

Consider a bridesmaids dress in white or champagne
Bridesmaids gowns tend to be considerably cheaper, but every bit as beautiful, and many of them come in white.

Julie Paisley Photography

Investigate sample sales.
Many major bridal lines offer yearly sample sales with prices marked way down. It could be a great way to get that designer gown for much less cash.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Claire Swinarski is a writer and podcaster based in Wisconsin. When she isn’t writing, she can be found obsessing over football, eating a burrito bowl, or hanging out with her husband and son.

A Bali Wedding for Surf Lovers

Convinced by the surf break at the site inspection, this sun-loving couple chose the flawless Bayuh Sabbha for their Bali nuptials and enlisted the floral arranging skills of Bloomz Fine Flowers and the planning talents of Cher Ange Weddings + Events to create the intimate destination wedding of their dreams. Scroll on to see the Bridesmaids wrapped in beautiful blue gowns and simply romantic tablescapes captured by Angga Permana and Flipmax, then head to the Vault to see the equally breathtaking engagement session!

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Tropical

From the Bride… Bali is our idea of the perfect holiday – sunshine, surf breaks, relaxation, and an endless choice of amazing restaurants. So when it came time to plan our wedding, we had no doubt that an intimate destination wedding in Bali with all our close friends and family would be right for us. We engaged Karen as our wedding planner from CHER ANGE Weddings and Events. Karen’s expertise and local knowledge made the process of planning a wedding from Australia so enjoyable and stress-free. We chose Villa Bayuh Sabbha in Uluwatu as our wedding venue – Tom was won over by the surf breaks at the site inspection! The beautiful tropical gardens and panoramic views of the coastline created the perfect setting.

The whole day felt like a dream, I remember Tom whispering to me, “I can’t believe this is for us.” My mum walked me down the aisle to ‘Heartbeats’ by Jose Gonzalez. Tom said this was a moment he will never forget. Our favorite memory was entering the reception to ‘You Are the Best Thing’ by Ray LaMontagne as Mr. and Mrs. Keech. Our bridal party all had sparklers, which was such a fun way to kick off the night! After the speeches and cake cutting, Tom and I had our first dance to ‘Better Together’ by Jack Johnson. I loved dancing under the canopy of fairy lights, it was so romantic – Tom even gave me a twirl or two! Then we were joined by everyone and danced all night. Our wedding would not have been the same if we weren’t in the company of our friends and family. It was our guests that made our wedding so special, and we were so lucky that they made the journey over to Bali to share our special day with us.

What Better Place for an E-Shoot Than Your Neighborhood?

If you’re in the midst of planning your own e-session right now, take a cue from these lovebirds and keep it simple. Your home town likely has some hidden gems and meaningful, photo-worthy spots that’ll make the photos all the more special. Hello Love Photography captured this sweet couple at home and around their neighborhood, an engagement session that is warm, inviting, and so full of love.

From Hello Love Photography… Sarah, Tyler, and I had a wonderful afternoon exploring their neighborhood around Logan Square and Humboldt Park, including a stop by an amazing wooden sculpture by the artist Jerzy Kanar, aptly titled “engagement.”

Photography: Hello Love Photography

What’s Romantic, Beyond Beautiful + Stunning? This Shoot!

While the lavender fields of France may be well known, are you aware that this fragrant flower also blooms beautifully and bountifully in the state of Washington? Oh yes, and it is stunning to say the least. Need proof? This shoot from The Ganeys has it all and is guaranteed to leave you in absolute awe. I mean, come on… this veil, this ring, these views! Let your wedding day dreams begin!

From The Ganeys… There is something so romantic about lavender fields. They’re elusive – only blooming a few weeks every year. They’re calming, with the savory scent and the buzzing of bees as the insect makes their way from one plant to the next. Woodinville Lavender is the perfect spot for an intimate wedding in the Seattle area. This peaceful venue at dusk became the inspiration for this shoot.

The floral invitation suite from Grey & Cake set the stage for the event. The intricate, and vintage botanical print surrounded the elegant script, invited guests to the intimate wedding.

The bride, Cristiana, looked incredible in her lace gown with beaded detail by Jenny Packham from The Dress Theory. The lace sleeves and illusion back added a soft elegance to her look. Her hair was tousled in a loose updo, complete with a delicate headband. Yessie Libby Makeup Artistry did an incredible job applying natural makeup highlighting the bride’s beautiful cheekbones. In her hands she carried an organic, jewel-toned bouquet, filled with iris, lavender, and deep colored foliage created by Gather Design Company.

The groom, Curtis, wore a navy suit with a floral tie and a lavender boutonniere. His cognac leather accents completed the look.

The ceremony took place among the lavender. Exchanging their vows between the rows, the sight was breathtaking.

Guests found their seats at long farm tables with elegant cross-back wooden chairs. Styled by Gather Design Company, tapered candles and an array of centerpieces in lavender and gold vessels welcomed the guests to the event. The menu was set atop gray ceramic plates from Pedersen’s Event Rentals.

After dinner, the bride and groom and their guests enjoyed the 3-tiered hand painted cake from Lilac Cake Boutique.

It was a beautiful day, filled with so many incredible details from Seattle’s wedding vendors. I feel so grateful that Thomas and I were able to document this lavender at dusk inspiration with an amazing team!

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Jenny Packham

Bridal 2016 Catwalk

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A Classic Garden Wedding With an Unexpected Pop of Floral

When it came time for this Bride to pick her bridesmaids dresses, she opted for dusty blue floral version from Amsale and the result is so dang pretty. It’s classic with a little twist and fits right in with this Belmont Manor garden affair planned by Lemon & Lime Event Design and decked out in blooms by Lucky Penny Floral. Pore through this stunning day captured by Lynn Dunston, plus even more right here.

From the Designer…The lily pond, canopies of trees, and surrounding gardens of Belmont Manor were the perfect backdrop for Emily and Mike’s understated, yet elegant wedding. To complement the natural beauty of the manor, the couple incorporated clean, minimalistic décor. Emily, who is the owner of the paper boutique and design studio Anchor Point Paper Co., created beautiful botanical stationery, along with custom calligraphy wood signage for the wedding. The gorgeous invitation suite included the absolute sweetest personalized illustration of the bride and the groom. Other details of the day included a delicate lace BHLDN gown, all-white florals by Lucky Penny Floral, and a ceremony under two large Magnolia trees in the manor’s lower garden followed by a white tent reception. The couple enlisted Lemon and Lime Event Design to help make sure their wedding weekend ran smoothly and that no detail was missed. All of the sweet moments of the day were captured by Lynn Dunston.

From the bride…Mike and I met in college. Our mutual friends introduced us. We were friends for about a year or so first, and then all of a sudden we both realized we were into each other! We both fell hard and fast and then the rest was history! We LOVE Chick-fil-A and eat it all the time. Mike proposed to me by hiding the ring in my Chick-fil-A nugget box! We chose navy and dusty blue as our wedding colors with all white flowers. Overall, most of our décor was very simple and understated. The gardens and grounds of Belmont Manor are so beautiful, we really wanted to let them shine!

From the photographer…If I had to describe Emily and Mike in one word, it would be “FUN!” Mike and Emily both love dogs so I love that we were able to capture Mike with his dogs at his family home where he and his groomsmen dressed on the wedding day. Photographing the guys horsing around on the basketball court was an extra bonus! Emily and Mike’s wedding was the perfect combination of fun and elegant. There was so much warmth and joy from family and friends surrounding Emily and Mike on their special day. The couple included a memorial table dedicated to those close that they have lost, and Emily tied a photo charm around her bouquet in memory of her late father, which was so endearing to capture.

This French Inspired Fête Will Leave You Dreaming of St. Tropez

Any party that ends with mini crepes in to-go boxes is a good one in our book. Right?!? For a 10th Anniversary celebration, Twenty Three Layers masterminded a fête that embodies the beauty of St. Tropez. From french infused sips, to monstera leaves and lemon centerpieces by Van Vliet & Trap and larger than life Brigitte Bardot vintage photographs dotting 501 Union, this party is giving us major French Riviera vibes. Get a front row seat to all the pretty details snapped by Bashful Captures right here.

From Jessica Boskoff, CEO + Founder of Twenty Three Layers, a NY-based Event Planning and Design firm… Filled with gorgeous monstera leaves, pink vintage furniture, black + white photos of Brigitte Bardot and Hotel Byblos – this beautiful 10th Anniversary celebration was definitely one for the books! Reminiscent of their years spent in Saint – Tropez, we wanted to create something magical for our clients. And this theme was right up our alley. When it comes to design we draw inspiration from our clients, the venue, our surroundings, anything that inspires us! 501 Union is such an incredible space, so much character to work with and a great flow for the evening. I immediately began creating a backdrop in my mind, laying out furniture while playing with the beautiful bright and crisp colors of St Tropez. As guests entered the room, they were greeted with twinkling lights above highlighting the nights sky. Classic french cocktails were offered to guests by servers wearing Mariniere shirts and a friendly smile. As the curtains were pulled back, the dining room was revealed. Long wooden tables filled with greenery and fresh lemons lined the center of the table. The smell of Tastings delicious food filled the room, beautiful big baskets of Crudite, just like Club 55, was a nod to St Tropez. All the French classics served. It didn’t take long for the party to actually start! In true St Tropez fashion the party moved to the nightclub dubbed Le Cave du Roy. They danced the night away as they nibble on late night crepes and mini tart tropiezians in custom to – go boxes. Absolutely magical!

The Genius Beauty Trick I Learned from Jessica Alba

I don’t watch Instagram live feeds very often, but the other day I decided to tune into Jessica Alba’s tutorial on how to get the pregnancy glow when you’re not feeling so glow-y. As a new (tired) mama, I figured I could takeaway some tips on how to keep that glow going post-baby! I ended up learning a genius little trick that really had nothing to do with the glow, but can change your entire look. It’s all about the brow—and it’s a great trick for a little more natural drama in those wedding photos, too. Keep reading for the deets!

First, make sure to brush out your brows, tweeze any rogue hairs and trim if needed.

Next, (and here’s the trick part of it!) you’re going to use TWO shades of brow filler. Apply a lighter shade on the inner portion of your brow, closest to your eyes. Then, apply a shade darker to the outer portion of your brows for a little more definition. Jessica noted that many women get that too harsh brow look because they’re using one darker color on the WHOLE brow. Considering that our brows are naturally lighter on the inner portion, it totally makes sense to use a lighter shade here!

Lastly, blend! Use your brow brush again to blend the two shades together and smooth out your brows. You’ll be happily surprised with the defined, yet natural look you can achieve using this trick. Let us know what you think if you try it!

Photography: Honest Beauty

Modern Design Meets Midwest Cuties

Detail after delightful detail stands out from this modern Midwest wedding. The candles and greenery gracing the aisle, the draped ceremony backdrop. The dreary Chicago day turning a corner and the sun peeking out. The smiles on these two cuties that never faded. And 312 Film captured them all – and their style of filming (with cinematic bouts of slow motion) has me swooning. LOLA Event Productions orchestrated the planning of this posh party and the finished results are just fantastic. Enjoy – and take notes, because these details aren’t to be missed.

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/196649811 600 338]

From 312 Film… A modern Chicago wedding at Morgan Manufacturing!

This Couple Swiped Right and Lived Happily Ever After

This couple is the proof that sometimes swiping right leads to a walk down the aisle. From Tinder to “I Do”, this modern affair crafted by Kathy B. Codilis Design and Stemline Creative is giving hope to dating app users everywhere. It’s a celebration that pairs chic with a historic piece of Chicago architecture and through Clary Pfeiffer’s images, that combo is undeniably gorgeous.

From the couple… The story or how we met is almost a punchline… We met on Tinder (before it got creepy). However we quickly realized we did have a connection as she was the beautiful babysitter of his next-door neighbors that he didn’t have the courage to ask out, in the traditional sense. We quickly realized our connection and were engaged 18 months later! Our styles are somewhat conflicting, she likes classic and he likes contemporary. The Chicago Athletic Association provided an opportunity to have both. The building was originally opened in 1890 but was painstakingly restored in 2015, adding modern amenities to a very historic piece of Chicago architecture. Wanting to create a formal atmosphere while still keeping things simple, we invited guests black-tie optional and went with classic themes, white flowers, gold accents, and tried to highlight the beauty of the location as much as possible. Our favorite moments were certainly having all the nieces and nephews gathered for photos before the ceremony and witnessing several meltdowns, including a classic photo of one of our flower girls completely shutting down before walking down the aisle! So many memories from that day, from fantastic September weather conditions to some incredibly creative/funny toasts to having our 90-year-old grandparents lighting up the dance floor! We couldn’t have been happier with that day and we hope it is symbolic of our lives ahead of us!

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