If ever there were a time to embrace pink floral wallpaper, it would be for a charming baby girl’s nursery. This Spoonflower showstopper sets the tone for a bright and happy room filled with cozy texture, shiplap ceilings and the perfect splash of blushing hues. Take the full tour of this sweet space designed by Ivy & Stone along with images by Brandi Smyth.

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A beautiful, simple & sophisticated nursery. I never thought in a million years I would allow so much pink into one room. I always thought I would keep it very neutral when we had a baby, with small touches of color and detail. Well … Fast forward to finding out you’re having a girl and all that goes out the window!! I knew I wanted to do an accent wall so I started there first. After coming across this adorable watercolor wallpaper by Indy Designs – I just couldn’t help myself, and the pink took over. I did my best to keep everything else super simple; painted the walls a solid soft white – added a light pickled wood to the ceiling and switched the fan out for a dainty chandelier. Once the shell was done everything else seemed to fall into place. Wall & Trim Color – White Ivory by Benjamin Moore

Photography: Brandi Smyth | Chandelier : Wayfair | Changing Pad Cover: Kadydid Designs | Furniture: Land Of The Nod | Interior Styling: Ivy And Stone | Lamp: Hobby Lobby | Ottoman: Wayfair | Pillows & Bedding: Ivy And Stone | Rug: Ivy And Stone | Wall Decor: Hobby Lobby | Wallpaper: Spoonflower

Over the past few years, there has been a steadily increasing trend for brides to be the “Cool Bride.” To find unique gowns, with eclectic elements and details, all in the pursuit of the extraordinary. And most of the time, this is awesome! It’s great to break boundaries and explore different possibilities. But some brides may not want to wear a bedazzled, fringed kaftan!

And if that’s you, read on for five wedding dress designers that are keeping it timeless and classic.

Sawyer Baird

Rebecca Schoneveld
These gowns are all made in Brooklyn, New York which just adds to their down-to-earth vibe. The designer herself just wants her brides to feel free and authentic- none of this striving to be ultra-cool. Her collection strives for inclusivity, which caters to brides of every shape and size (can I get an Amen!), through allowing simple customizations to their existing collection. A fun, free, feminine aesthetic makes for simply a great gown choice.

Summer Street Photography


Watters
For the classic, streamlined wedding dress, Watters is your best bet! They have a few different collections at a few different price-points, so you’re likely to find something to suit all your desires! With the utilization of simple, stunning laces and impeccably constructed gowns, this brand is ideal for the bride who is all about fit and class. Have a peek around their website and you’ll notice that they’re stocked globally as their aesthetic works worldwide!

Marquise Bridal
Based out of Melbourne, this brand does not subscribe to current bridal trends, but rather transcends them and exudes classic glamour and elegance. Marquise uses a lot of luxe, high-end fabrics in figure-flattering silhouettes. While definitely cool-bride worthy, these gowns are timeless, and will remain your favorite years after you walk down the aisle!

Emilia Jane Photography

Samantha Sleeper
Another Brooklyn based designer, Samantha Sleeper is the epitome of dreamy and ethereal. Although they do create collections, the main aspect of the brand is their incredible custom pieces. They landed on this list for their authentic approach to design: beginning a dialogue with each bride and analyzing what they want and translating it to a stunning, finished piece. Delicate embroideries, floral embellishments, and laces characterize their line and set them apart from many current designers.

Amy Arrington Photography

Hayley Paige
‘Now, Hayley Paige could definitely be considered a cool-bride designer. She has a collection of “holy-matrimojis”, so she might just be the queen of cool! But recently, I’ve been seeing the decline of the ballgown in favor of brides turning to more figure-hugging silhouettes in an effort not to look princessy. However, if your goal is to be the belle of the ball, Hayley Paige is for you! Her gowns are big, vivacious and overall gorgeous, and unique while staying timeless and beautiful.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Goli Parvinian is a bridal enthusiast and masters student living in Melbourne, Australia. Over the past few years, she has worked for bridal brands in her hometown of Chicago, New Zealand and New York City. You can typically find her in a cafe, face-timing her nieces or out on a long run.

In my mid-20s, the inevitable happened. My friends in long-term relationships started to get engaged. Each time I checked the mail, there was an invite to a wedding and the festivities that came along with it: an engagement party, bridal shower, bachelorette party or bridal brunch.

Ava Moore Photography

It became apparent that I wasn’t going to be able to attend every event I was invited to. And so, I decided to prioritize the exchange of vows over everything else. As a result, I passed up on attending the bachelorette party for two of my best friends.

That was a mistake, something I realized after going through my own wedding experience.

The wedding is an important and joyous celebration but with all the people in attendance (the average amount of wedding guests is 120 people) and its multiple moving parts, it’s difficult to create meaningful moments with people who aren’t your family. Most couples will tell you the night went by fast and it was all a blur. This is not the case for bachelorette parties, which often consist of road trip, plane rides, sleepovers and group activities.

A bachelorette party doesn’t need to be a rowdy, drunk mess to create memories worth recounting year after year. Time with friends, away from daily commitments, is enough to make you smile each time you recall the pre-wedding festivities.

Ava Moore Photography

However, when those invites first came around, I underestimated their importance. I prioritized work and the anxiety of not knowing anyone else at the party. Back then, it seemed like just another party. I justified my absence by saying I was attending the wedding, and would it make it up to them with a one-on-one dinner. What I failed to understand was that I was being asked to be a part of the bigger picture celebration, on a more intimate level. Any discomfort I felt because I had to leave work early or about not knowing anyone, was worth making new memories with the bride and her other friends.

Anna Roussos

Looking back, I see how important the bachelorette party is to maintain a friendship. The invites I extended were to people I considered an important part of my life. I wanted to celebrate our past and create new memories that would carry us in the years to come. It was my chance to have the friends near and dearest to me, all under one roof, laughing together before time would take our lives in different directions. It’s something I wish I knew sooner.

It was a hard lesson to learn but I can’t change the past. I can only learn from it. Today, I say yes to every invite a friend extends to be a part of the bachelorette fun because ultimately, I know it’ll cost me more not to.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Ximena N. Larking is a writer and publicist. She lives in Chicago with her husband and dog. For more info: ximenalarkin.com

Ainsley Rose Photography

By the time you’re about to walk down the aisle, you’ve probably already purchased dresses upon dresses upon more dresses. It’s your year to shine, but no one wants to break the bank. Turn heads at your rehearsal dinner in something that stands out, but also isn’t a million bucks.

These dresses, all under $150, will satisfy your search for the last dress you’ll wear as a single gal!

8 Rehearsal Dinner Dresses under $150

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8 Rehearsal Dinner Dresses under $150

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We never turn down a chance to peruse the latest + greatest from Pronovias and today we’re cozying up to a sneak peek at the new Atelier Pronovias and Pronovias 2018 collections. Spoiler alert – they are filled with beautiful details. We’re sort of obsessed with the fringed sleeves and off-the-shoulder necklines. What’s your fave?

Finding a gown that is equal parts comfy and beautiful is not as hard as it seems. Designed by creative director and genius, Hervé Moreau, the newest collections from Pronovias put both right at your fingertips with gowns that are specifically designed to highlight movement. From the romantic (+ figure-flattering) silhouettes to the breathtaking combo of materials and fabrics, there’s a little something for everyone. Oh, and we mentioned the details, right? Like white gemstone hand-embroidery and detachable cap sleeves.

Whether you’re tying the knot in a garden wedding or a super contemporary affair, we’re positive you’ll find your dream gown in Pronovias’ gorgeous lineup. Visit them online to see what’s new, peruse all of the pretty and to find a retailer near you. Oh, and check out a peek at their Wild Love in East Africa shoot captured by photographer Miguel Reveriego below.

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With the rise of non-traditional venues, like barns and beaches, many brides often forget the most traditional option for their wedding: a hotel. While the unique aspects of a warehouse wedding are great, there’s just something about a hotel ballroom that screams elegance.

Plus, hosting your wedding at a hotel has tons of added perks—we explain a few here.

Jana Williams Photography

DISCOUNTS
Many hotels will offer brides and grooms room discounts if they also host their wedding there. Look at the venue first (the ballroom is more important than the guest room!) and when you find one you love, ask the wedding coordinator about special rates and discounts—your guests will appreciate the help to their wallets and you’ll be happy knowing you scored a great deal without giving up any charm.

Joel Serrato

EASY ACCESS
Picture this: choosing a hotel ballroom wedding means you can instantly cross off transportation from your to-do list. When guests are able to simply walk (without leaving the hotel!), it makes your life, and theirs, much easier. You can also plan a rehearsal dinner, after-party, and morning after-brunch all in the same space. It keeps everyone together throughout the entire weekend and makes planning that much easier.

Elizabeth Nord Photography

EVERYTHING ON SITE
Something many brides don’t think about when planning a wedding on a beach or in a barn are the rentals. Most of these venues don’t come with their own amenities. This means you have to rent your own chairs, tables, chuppahs, generators, and anything else you may want or need for your wedding day. When you opt for a hotel wedding, the majority of these things will already be on site for you.

Plus, many offer brides and grooms the option to customize or upgrade, giving you just as many options without the added headache.

Olivia Leigh Photographie

BACKDROP
You know that feeling when you step into a beautiful hotel room during a vacation or weekend away? You instantly feel special—the same way all couples want to feel on their wedding day. Take that feeling and run with it with a hotel wedding. With many ballrooms already decked out with gorgeous chandeliers, elegantly printed walls, and upscale furniture, you can have a gorgeous backdrop without all the money it takes to make one yourself.

And quite possibly the best part of a hotel wedding? As soon as it’s over, you and your new spouse can simply ride the elevator up to post-wedding bliss—a short and easy trip to married life.

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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Joel Serrato Film Photographer

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There is nothing more romantic than an outdoor garden wedding full of gorgeous blooms…. and this couple’s big day was truly so beautiful and effortless. Located at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, with organic and clean design details and luscious blush florals with pops of deep red, the entire celebration was picture perfect. Speaking of picture perfect, with Deer Lovers behind the lens, this gallery is one you won’t want to miss!

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The bride wore a simple, fitted, lace detailed gown by Martina Liana, and the groom donned an ever-classic black tux that he paired with an heirloom watch from his grandfather, which was the perfect compliment to the timelessness that is their venue. The bouquets and romantic ceremony arch created by SassaFrass florals & scripts were soft and organic, looking like they could have been hand picked from the surrounding gardens. Guests joined them in the courtyard for a beautiful dinner under the twinkling lights and they all danced the night away before joining the couple for a sparkler send off that was pure magic. This couple has such love and kindness for people that everyone can see. Megan is a pure joy to everyone she meets, her smile lights up a room. You can easily imagine how Ryan would be drawn to her. Ryan is the kindest soul with a huge heart and the most infectious laugh. Together, these two are a dream. We love them both and were so honored to capture their love story.

Photography: Dear Lovers | Videography: Kyle Mize Productions | Floral Design: SassaFrass florals & scripts | Gown: Essense of Australia | Cake: VG Donut & Bakery | Bridesmaids' Dresses: SHow Me Your Mumu | Hair + Makeup: A Toast To Beauty | Band: DJ | Venue: The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe | Wedding Dress Boutique: The White Flower Bridal Boutique

I probably spent waaaay too much time poring over this beauty designed and planned by Westcott Weddings. And I could go back for seconds… see? It encompasses everything I love about elegant summery soirees. Oh, how I will miss these warm weather weddings! For those of you planning for 2018, join me in the gallery from Julie Wilhite for even more goodness.

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From the Bride… Kellen and I wanted to get married surrounded by nature, and after walking the grounds of Barr Mansion, we knew it was perfect for our wedding. The space is green and full of life and we loved the the idea of exchanging our vows under a sprawling pecan tree surrounded by gardens of flowers and vegetables.

Since Barr Mansion is so beautiful on its own, there was very little pressure to decorate the space so we kept things simple and elegant. Clementine Botanical Art complimented the natural feel of the venue with lots of greenery, and lush organically arranged layers of white and cream flowers. Westcott Weddings incorporated soft touches of grey with with fabric calligraphy banners (Boarding School Collective) for the seating chart and bar menu, with hemstitch napkins and small details throughout the design. The draping surrounding the DJ booth from Marquee, a grotto filled with candles from Clementine, and a vintage lounge area from Loot Rentals helped add to the romantic atmosphere.

Food was a huge priority for our wedding. We both love to eat and have had some of our best date nights in the kitchen cooking together. We knew Barr Mansion’s farm-to-table fresh, grown on site, organic menu would be perfect for us and our guests – and we were not disappointed. A favorite detail of the evening was a champagne tower that conveniently resulted in a bar lined with ready to go coupes of bubbles, right by the dance floor to keep the party going all night.

A special thank you is due to Meredith Reyes from Westcott Weddings for designing and executing our perfect wedding. Planning was so easy knowing I could trust the aesthetic and attention to detail of Westcott Weddings (some of the details were even borrowed from Meredith’s own wedding!). Heather and the staff from Barr Mansion were also super helpful in creating a seamless event. Finally, special thank you to our photographer, Julie Wilhite, for capturing it all so beautifully.

From the designer/planner (Meredith Reyes)… From the moment I met Kristen, I knew I liked her. She had great style, a sense of humor, and I loved all the words she used to describe her vision for her wedding day: elegant, simple, and garden party. I think we were able to capture of all these elements perfectly for her and Kellen. They were married under large, beautiful sweeping branches with two large arrangements to frame the center aisle. We included pops of bright white in the signage and bars, and touches of soft gray in the napkins and larger than life seating chart displayed in the breezeway where guests enjoyed appetizers and cocktails. Once guests moved inside to the main ballroom for dinner, they were transported to an indoor romantic garden party…in hopes of beating the Texas summer heat! Clementine Botanical Art draped the ceiling and festoon lighting with greenery hanging down over the dance floor, as well as adding a greenery instal to enhance the draping that framed the DJ. The farm tables were draped in garland that hung all the way down to the floors and the arrangements on the round tables had the biggest peonies I’ve ever seen! We added warmth by incorporating “all the candlelight” to create an inviting feel for guests. Kristen and Kellen’s friends and family danced the night away and it was such a joy to be a part of this beautiful wedding!

I am so thankful for the talented team that helped make Kristen and Kellen’s wedding day such a beautiful celebration! Many congratulations to the newly Mr and Mrs. Powell!

Photography: Julie Wilhite Photography | Event Design + Planning: Westcott Weddings | Floral Design: Clementine Botanical Art | Invitations: Paper Place | Bride's Shoes: Badgely Mischka | Catering: Barr Mansion | Hair and Makeup: Lip Service | DJ: Dapper Sounds Entertainment | Transportation: Transportation Consultants | Wedding Venue: Barr Mansion | Accommodations: JW Marriott Austin | Bride's Cake: Barr Mansion | Bride's Dress: Unbridaled | Ceremony Musicians: Terra Vista Strings | Day of Signage: The Boarding School Collective | Draping and Rentals: Marquee Event Rentals | Groom's Cake: Baguette et Chocolat | Lighting Design: Intelligent Lighting Design | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Lounge Rentals: Loot Vintage Rentals | Napkins: BBJ La Tavola | Ribbon: Silk and Willow

Don’t shoot the messenger but the holidays are going to be here before we know it and as winter brides are in the thick of planning, this Austrian celebration crafted by A Very Beloved Wedding is just what the doctor ordered. From the prettiest snow-filled landscapes to a candlelit palace and pretty pomegranate details, even the most ardent lovers of summer will find themselves dreaming of the coziness of winter. The wildly gorgeous images by Greg Finck certainly help too. See the full day here plus a film by MG Image below!

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Photography: Greg Finck Photography | Cinematography: MG Image | Floral Design: A Very Beloved Bloom | Wedding gown: Rosa Clara | Cake: Cake Couture | Stationery: Wald & Schwert | Ceremony Venue: St Peter's Abbey | Bride's shoes: Jimmy Choo | Rings: Cartier | DJ: DJ Ramin | Band: Jazz Pop Soul | Wedding Venue: Leopoldskron Castle | Destination Wedding Planning and Design: A Very Beloved Wedding

If garden wedding inspiration is what you’re on the hunt for, you’ve come to the right place. Set at Kohl Mansion and with Madix & Co behind the creative helm, this fete is absolutely bursting with color, blooms and utter gorgeousness. Not to mention, the prettiest details from some of our fave Little Black Bookers. Peruse Meg Perotti‘s captures below and make sure to peek at the full gallery, too!

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From Madix & Co… Michelle and Diego met through mutual friends on a Tahoe Trip, but it was Diego’s connection with Michelle’s German Shepherd that caught her eye. Diego was born in Bariloche, Argentina. He came to the States when he was seven years old with his immediate family. They were originally only going to be in the States for a few years but ended up staying. He grew up with German Shepherds, and his parents also met through the influence of a German Shepherd.

Michelle was born in San Francisco, was raised in Mill Valley, and is a big San Francisco Giants fan. Michelle and Diego love being outdoors, whether hiking, snowboarding, or traveling. We wanted to create a spring garden inspired formal affair that reflected their story and personalities, so we focused on bright, happy colors and personal details, such as terra cotta and blind embossed patterns to represent Diego’s heritage. We represented Michelle’s love of the Giants by using the jersey numbers of her favorite players as the table numbers. During their engagement, they purchased a home together, so they had their friend paint it and used the painting as part of their unique guest book. To really execute the garden theme, flowers were everywhere, from tables to mantles to ponds.

Photographer: Meg Perotti | Videographer: Cinematt | Florist: Loop Event Arts | Florist: Loop Event Arts | Cake: A Spoonful Of Sugar Cakes | Stationery: Aerialist Press | Church: Our Lady of Angels Church | Church: Our Lady of Angels Church | Reception Venue: Kohl Mansion | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Caterer: Culinary Eye Catering and Events | Lighting: Enhanced Lighting and Design | Beauty: Skyla Arts Makeup & Hair | Beverages: Mills Wine Group | Bridal Boutique: Kinsley James Couture Bridal | Bridal Gown: Angel Rivera | Calligraphy + Signage: Brown Fox Calligraphy | Groom/Groomsmen Attire: The Black Tux | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Photobooth: Giggle and Riot | Planner + Designer: Madix & Co | Rentals: Bright Event Rentals | Tabletop Rentals: Frances Lane | Votives: Theoni Collection

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Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

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Madix & Co

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“Magical elegance” was the Bride and Groom’s inspiration for this wedding and they most certainly hit the nail on the head. Combining the classic beauty of the Bedford Post Inn with moments of brilliance like a pool dotted with coral peonies and bright blooms by Sandra Taurina, this celebration planned by Eventavli toes the line between cozy, relaxed and wildly gorgeous. Get lost in all the pretty imagery captured by Simply Sarah with even more right here.

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From the bride…Rutherford and I first met in 1997, when he was attending college with my sister Natalie. At the time I was still in high school and had a massive, secret crush on Rutherford; although I’m sure it was somewhat obvious! I always looked forward to seeing him and whenever my sister was having get togethers I would secretly hope for Rutherford to be there. Nothing ever came of my innocent crush as life took us in different directions, but God had a plan for our future and we reconnected thirteen years later. From that moment forward it was as if everything we had been thru in life brought us back to one another!

Our engagement couldn’t have been any more special! Rutherford and I always travel together around our anniversary which coincides with Rutherford’s birthday week and last year we decided to go to Eleuthera, Bahamas. My sisters and I had traveled to the island earlier that year and just fell in love! Rutherford decided that my favorite beach on the island would be the perfect place for the proposal. I was so excited to be back at Lighthouse Point and was rushing to get to the top of the cliffs to see the view that I had missed so much since my previous visit. I told Rutherford to watch out for snakes on the way up to the cliff’s edge; little did I know we were about to get engaged! I was busy taking pictures of what remains to be one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen on earth and Rutherford suggested that we take some “selfies” together. I thought it was a bit strange as the day before when I was trying to do so he wasn’t too on board with the idea. Rutherford embraced me from behind and when I blurted out “hey I’m trying to take pictures” (in my head thinking leave me alone haha) he suggested that I just enjoy the view and moment. Rutherford then got down on one knee and asked me to marry him; I was shaking as I couldn’t believe what was happening. I then began to ask “why am I shaking” as in my heart I felt nothing but comfort and excitement. It was a beautiful moment that I will never forget!

Our wedding day was truly a celebration of our love! In planning our wedding my vision was one of magical elegance. The design inspiration was drawn from the elements of nature which complement the organic setting of Bedford Post Inn. I fell in love with the simple charm of the inn and beautiful property which lends itself to feeling more like a private home. Our stunningly designed invitation suite set the tone for the details to follow. A number of personal touches were incorporated into the wedding including my bouquet which was tied with lace from my grandmother’s island of Samos, Greece, the serving of a ceremonial cocktail native to my husband’s family’s country of Haiti and favors of wildflower and thyme honey imported from Greece. From our ceremony in the yoga loft overlooking the gardens, to the reflecting pool decorated with vibrant flower petals, our wedding song sung by Jermaine Paul, the incredible floral arrangements, to dancing under the stars our wedding day was everything we hoped it to be and more! Our favorite memory from our wedding day was the moment we both saw one another for the first time at the ceremony and embraced hands. Any nerves that we may have been feeling quickly subsided and were replaced with excitement!

To all newly engaged brides I would most definitely recommend Simply Sarah Photography! From my very first conversation with Sarah I knew that she was the photographer I had been searching for to capture our special day. Speaking with her felt more like catching up with a friend; she was extremely easy-going, patient and understanding. Her positive, comforting energy was felt even more so in person as she created a fun, safe space allowing for an enjoyable experience! Sarah’s work is incredible; the ethereal feeling evoked through her photographs is second to none! I really believe it is more than a coincidence that I came across Sarah’s beautiful work through her posts of Eleuthera; the same island where my husband and I were engaged! We are so blessed to have had Sarah behind the lens and will cherish the moments she captured for a lifetime.

Photography: Elizabeth Lanier Photography | Event Planning: Eventavli | Floral Design: Sandra Taurina | Wedding Dress: Inbal Dror | Invitations: Spurle Gul Studios | Shoes: Aquazzura | Catering: Bedford Post Inn | Makeup: Chico Mitsui | Hair: Ertan Kahriman | DJ: DJ B. Mills | Groom's Attire: Armani | Wedding Venue: Bedford Post Inn | Film Lab: PhotoVision Prints

Lately, it seems as if Hollywood couples are having a whole lot of bad luck in love! First Anna Faris and Chris Pratt… now Fergie and Josh Duhamel! Don’t forget Brad and Angelina earlier this year! We can’t handle any more breakups. So celebs take note and spare us all the pain, we’ve rounded up celebrities couples we never ever want to call it quits!

Cutest Celebrity Couples

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Cutest Celebrity Couples

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When picking out the perfect venue to host your “I do’s,” there are many important variables to consider. Budget, guest capacity, preferred vendors and decor are just a few keys points that can determine which space will seal the deal. need to know when

Here are five things you should consider when vetting your wedding venue.

Jessica Gold Photography

1. Only look at venues in your budget
As you begin to file away dream venues, be sure to eliminate any spaces that aren’t within budget or can’t accommodate your guest count. If the shoe doesn’t fit, don’t wear it! Touring venues that you want to work (but simply won’t) will only lead to stress down the road when you find yourself whittling down your guest list to make do. Stay realistic and stick to touring venues that fit the bill.

Jen Dillender Photography

2. Don’t settle
Try to sign with a venue that you love everything about. Booking a venue you feel lukewarm about or think you can overhaul with decor is never a good idea. You will drive yourself crazy trying to drape over bad wallpaper and requesting renovations. Save yourself time and money by staying focused on booking a venue based on your appreciation of the aesthetics already in the space.

Amanda Nippoldt Photography

3. Make sure the venue has an on-site coordinator
Be sure to confirm whether or not the space you are hoping to book has an on site venue coordinator. A venue coordinator is key to keeping stress levels low as they will be your sounding board for all questions you have about the space. Defer to your venue coordinator for day-of logistics for set-up and tear down, floor plans, lighting and decor, and of course, vendor recommendations.

Tamara Gruner Photography

4. Ensure you like (and can afford) the preferred vendors
A big area many couples neglect to check on when booking their venue is the preferred vendor list. You want to ensure that any seemingly low venue fees aren’t going to catch up with you later when you can’t fit the expenses of the preferred vendor list into your budget. Checking on pricing with any preferred vendors before booking is always in your best interest.

Twah Dougherty Photography

5. Be flexible
If you find yourself stretching your funds, ask venues if they offer discounted rates for hosting your event on a Friday or Sunday. You might also want to explore spaces that allow you to host both your ceremony and reception on site as well as bring in your own caterer. Additionally, venues that include decor items in the rental fee such as tables, chairs, lighting, etc. are always a plus.

At the end of the day, be sure to coordinate with all contributing parties on the wedding venue. Once the date is set, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the wedding planning ride.

Style Me Pretty Contributor – Jennae Saltzman is based in Minneapolis, MN and is the owner of Blush & Whim Wedding Planning + Event Design. She was recently named one of the TOP 10 Wedding Planners in the Midwest by Martha Stewarts’ sister company, MyWedding Magazine.

When the Bride and the Groom met working in the food industry, you know the reception dinner is going to be phenomenal! From the signature cocktail – a rose-colored citrus aperitif topped with edible flowers – to the late-night snacks of schnitzels and goulash inspired by the couple’s Eastern European heritage, the menu of this wedding planned by Exclusive Weddings in Prague was a food lover’s dream. To top it all off, Punk Rock Cakes baked a gorgeous peach-marbled creation in a delicious carrot flavor. See it all in the drool-worthy gallery captured by Stepan Vrazala Photographer and the film by Primetime Video.

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From the Bride… He popped the question while we were traveling in Europe visiting our families. Although we reside in Southern California, my husband lived in Germany until he was 14, and my parents immigrated to the U. S. from Slovakia, so we are both of Eastern-European heritage. We had visited Prague just a few days prior to our engagement and walked through St. Wenceslas vineyard, admiring the cobblestone path down from the castle through the vineyard – the same setting we would eventually be married in. With travel being a love of ours, our family sprinkled around Europe, and Prague being one of the most beautiful cities, a destination wedding was meant to be.

We had decided the top three most important things we wanted to focus on during the planning process were: family, food, and floral decor. Family from near and far traveled around the globe via planes, trains, and automobiles to one of the most romantic cities in the world. Our goal was to choose a venue that could show off Prague’s beauty in all its glory, and that’s exactly what we got when we chose Villa Richter. Guests marveled at the sweeping views of spires, domes, the Vltava river, and St. Wenceslas vineyard while watching us exchange vows. It felt like a fairytale.

Both of us are passionate about food – it’s essentially what brought my husband and me together. He is a professional chef, and we met while working in a catering kitchen. Little did we know after countless hours of catering many weddings, six years later we would be reveling in our own. We approached our wedding menu planning as if we were planning an indulgent feast for ourselves with all of our favorite foods and flavors we wanted to share with our guests. Signature cocktails included a rose-colored, citrus aperitif topped with edible flowers and a zesty whiskey and ginger concoction. Cheese and charcuterie are a must in our book, so a French cheese bar and a whole leg of Jamón was an easy pick for accompanying hors d’oeuvres. Lobster-cognac soup, house-made smoked salmon, foie gras with brioche… We were in food heaven. Desert was a spread of many classic Czech pastries, chocolate mousse cups, tiramisu, and our gorgeous peach-marbled wedding cake in a carrot flavor. A late-night snack was one that reminded us of our family roots – schnitzels and goulash. The cognac and cigar bar on the terrace overlooking the city lights rounded out the evening.

I wanted the wedding design to be elegant enough for the romantic setting, but also fresh and modern. Frezia Fleur tapped into my head and made my vision a reality. Greenery garlands weaved into free-form florals of vibrant hues: orange, coral, and peach. Geometric vases, gold accents, watercolor stationery, and candles tied the dreamy setting together. The swoon-worthy set-up of the desert bar still makes me beam. A geometric “love conquers all” sign suspended onto a natural greenery backdrop, while gold-glass shelving was filled to the brim with candles.

The entire day was a dream. My husband and I talk about how we wish we could relive it repeatedly. It was our best day ever, and we have all of our lovely vendors to thank. We could not have planned this dream destination wedding half-way across the world if not for our amazing wedding coordinator, Andrea of Exclusive Weddings in Prague.

Photography: Stepan Vrzala Photography | Cinematography: PRIMETIMEVIDEO | Event Planning: Exclusive Weddings In Prague | Floral Design: Veronika | Wedding Dress: Calla Blanche | Cake: Punkrock Cakes | Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Wtoo by Watters | Hair + Makeup: Bridal Beauty by Bara K. | Band: April | Men's Attire: Combatant Gentlemen | Wedding Venue: Villa Richter | Bridal Boutique: Wtoo By Watters From Bellissima Bridal In Coral Gables, Florida | Bride’s Earrings: Nordica Photography

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Exclusive Weddings In Prague

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Start with some romantic braids and curls courtesy of Kacee Geoffroy Hair + Makeup, add in a couple of adorable flower girls donning floral crowns by The Bloemist, and finish it off with a so-in-love couple and you’ve got the stuff wedding dreams are made of. Sit back and enjoy this sweet gallery by onelove photography.

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From the couple… We wanted our wedding to be very natural and not too many frills. Being outdoors was an absolute must for us. Trust your vendors, you picked them for a reason so just let them be experts in their fields and let go of some of that need for control. Our favorite part of the night was getting to dance with our friends and family.

Photography: onelove photography | Floral Design: The Bloemist | Wedding Dress: JLM Couture | Cake: Fantasy Frostings | Catering: Patina Catering | Hair + Makeup: Kacee Geoffroy Hair and Makeup | Venue: Descanso Gardens | Coordinaton: Fab Weddings

One minute and seven seconds in—that love, is exactly why I log on to Style Me Pretty with a smile on my face every day. Today, we’ve got Creative Films to thank for delivering that love in the form of this moving film and Leigh Miller, for the stunning imagery. When you’re tearing up over the sweet video, head to the full gallery for even more!

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From Creative Films… We got to know Sarah and Mike a few weeks before their wedding when we shot a sweet little Love Story interview for them to share with their guests on their wedding day. I immediately fell in love with both of them (and their puppydogs). Flash forward to the wedding day and it couldn’t have been more perfect. They had the most amazing team of creative Kansas City wedding professionals and their day was one of the prettiest we have had the honor to be part of this season. Even more special was to see how much they enjoyed watching their family and friends enjoy the day and the sweet looks they stole to each other all night long.

From the Bride… Both Mike and myself could not have been more happy on our wedding day. From day one, we had a vision for the theme, feel, and overall flow of our wedding ceremony and reception for not only ourselves, but more importantly, for all of our loved ones to share in. Our fantastic vendors were able to take exactly what we wanted and bring it to life more perfectly that we could have imagined. From the moment we both awoke the morning of our wedding, there was such a sense of peace and calm that overcame us both and that feeling lasted through the entire day and evening. There was nowhere else on earth we could have imagined being, and one moment that I myself will never forget was when myself and Mike were able to discreetly sneak a peek upon all of our guests, from a balcony vantage point, at our pre ceremony wine and bourbon tasting cocktail hour. What we saw brought tears to our eyes; beautiful music by The Blackbird Revue engulfing the stunning Tudor Room of the Brass on Baltimore…our guests loudly laughing and conversing with such great enthusiasm and cheer. Hand in hand we looked in each other’s eyes and it was further confirmed to us that making the choice to marry one another was the absolute best decision either of us would make in this lifetime!

Photography: Leigh Miller Photography | Cinematography: Creative Films | Coordination: You're Invited | Floral Design: Branches and Twigs | Cake: Baked Expressions | Catering: Olive Events | lighting: Platinum Productions | Band: Twice on Sunday | Groom's Attire: Ermenegildo Zegna | Groom's Attire: Prada | Bridal Gown: Amsale | Ceremony & Reception: The Brass on Baltimore | Hair/Makeup: White Carpet Bride | Rentals: Ultrapom | bridal jewery: Lindsay Marie Design | bridal shoes: Badgley Mishka | brides dress: Gown Gallery | musicians: The Blackbird Review | wedding rings: Meierottos Jewelers

This is the kind of soiree that I just know I’ll be seeing ALL over Pinterest for years to come. The kind of wedding I want to see one of you re-create. I don’t mean detail for detail—I mean, the balance of beauty it boasts. From start to finish, getting ready to last dance, it is seamless. Captured by Jenna McElroy, I’m betting each and every one of you can find at least one detail that sparks your wedding-loving heart. Ready, set, GO!

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From Jenna McElroy… Kathleen and Bart, both New Yorkers, decided to celebrate their beautiful spring wedding in the beautiful Hill Country of Texas. This city couple opted to have a chic, sophisticated outdoor affair at The Vineyard at Chappel Lodge. Family and friends traveled far and wide to partake in this sweet southern wedding. The bridesmaids were floor length grey dresses that were complimented by bouquet’s of Austin’s neutral color palette. The couple’s first look was in the middle of a wildflower field surrounded by nothing but space and sky. These two added some Northeastern flair by adding incredible seafood by Pink Avocado for cocktail hour, while a live jazz band played in the background. Dinner and dancing followed under the stars, and it was absolutely breathtaking. Kathleen and Bart’s wedding was a beautiful celebration that took place under the unrivaled beautiful Texas sky.

photography: Jenna McElroy | videographer: Jared Christopher | floral design: Bouquets of Austin | cake: Candace Powell | invitations: Rebecca Green Design | brides shoes: Badgley Mishka | bridesmaids dresses: Jenny Yoo | catering: Pink Avocado | band: Royal Dukes Band | groom's attire: The Black Tux | Venue: Vineyard At Chappel Lodge | brides gown: Pronovias | film scans: PhotoVision Prints | muah: Mindy Orsak

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Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

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Royal Dukes Band

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The morning light is magical in Paris on its own but add in a seriously stunning bride-to-be and a gown by Claire Pettibone and this, my dears, is what dreams are made of. Jacqui Cole captured the stylish scenes that are stealing our hearts, and these pics are bound to be filling up our Pinterest boards in 3, 2, 1…

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From Jacqui Cole… In the morning, as the sun is rising and before the masses have woken, the streets of Paris are untouched and so serene. The aim of this editorial is to visualize what is would be like for a couple eloping in this magical city. The inspiration for this elegant Parisian shoot is centered around the whimsical Claire Pettibone gown. The sheer fabric looked breathtaking in the morning light of Paris. The soft, lush florals added a true feminine touch. A delicate hint of purple added depth to the neutral hues while also giving a subtle nod to the French locale. Hair and makeup for the bride centered on her natural beauty – a glowy, natural palette was used for the makeup and her hair was left relaxed and down to effortlessly blow in the morning breeze. Joy Proctor’s stunning Bella Belle shoes were the perfect finishing touch!

Photography: Jacqui Cole Photography | Event Planning: Jennifer Fox Weddings | Floral Design: Floraison | Wedding Dress: Claire Pettibone | Shoes: Bella Belle | Hair + Makeup Artist: Onorina Jomir Beauty | Invitation Suite: Oh Honey Paper Co | Ring Box: The Mrs Box | Silk Ribbon: Orchidee De Soie

Bring on the blues! From the various hues for the bridesmaids to the tablescapes and florals, this Kentucky wedding is brimming with beautiful blues and I’m downright smitten. Rachael McCall captured them all and I’m bookmarking this beauty to come back whenever I need my Southern wedding fix (which, let’s be real, is quite often). Fall head over heels for all the delightful details and magical moments right this way!

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From Rachael McCall… Bethy and Carl were one of the most genuine and calm spirited couples I have ever photographed. Their wedding day was planned so perfectly that when you arrived at the venue, you just knew it was going to be a great wedding. Bethy is a triplet. I state that because she and her two sisters are all so different. I thought it was an interesting correlation at this wedding because there were three different areas of the day that were so widely different. She started at the castle to get ready, they moved to the lush gardens for the ceremony, and finished the night off under a modern wood fixture to party the night away. That is one thing I loved about this venue, that there were such different ambiances throughout the day. The amazing florals and designers did a great job tying up the three locations with tints of blue and calming creams to carry you through the wedding. From the insanely gorgeous train on her wedding dress to the choreographed dance between the bride and groom, these two had a great mix of elegance and fun. The night ended when the red jeweled limo from 21c Hotel picked them up to sweep them away!

Photography: Rachael McCall | Videography: Love the Renauds | Event Planning + Design : Shelly Fortune Event Design | Floral Design: Rose & Honey | Wedding Dress: Essense of Australia | Cake: Sweet Stuff Bakery | Invitations: Cardinal And Straw Fine Paper Goods | Catering: Masterson's Catering | DJ: Kentucky Pro DJ | Wedding Venue: Yew Dell Gardens | Beauty: Z Salon & Spa | Bridal Boutique: Rebecca's Wedding Boutique | Music: Highland Chamber Players | Photography - Assistance: Samantha Moore Photography | Rentals: Fifty Chairs | Rentals + Decor: Bryants Rent All

Cue the blush + gold details and gobs of peonies because this master bedroom makeover captured by Lindsay Salazar has all the fixins for a fashion lovers paradise. It’s serene and cozy yet filled with the essentials for a dreamy nights sleep. And sleep is of utmost importance when you are expecting twins like blogger Emily Jackson of Ivory Lane. I speak from experience. She worked with Alice Lane Home to create a space perfect for everything from art books to killer heels and all the glamorous lounging in between.

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I started dreaming up this space with Alice Lane what seems like forever ago! It has been a process we’ve been working on for quite a while and I’m so obsessed with the final product! I’ve said before that I’m a homebody and LOVE to be at home with my family. With this pregnancy with the twins I’ve been more exhausted and tired than ever, so I’m happy to admit that I’ve spent plenty of time in my master the past several months and am still so in love with everything about the space! Some of my favorite pieces of the room are of course the bed (plus the accent pillows and bedding), the curtains (by Q Design, also here), and the gorgeous chandelier!

Photography: Lindsay Salazar | Curtains: Q Design Centre | Design Services: Wonderland by Alice Lane | Furniture : Wonderland by Alice Lane | Home of: Emily Jackson