If you ask me, it doesn’t get more romantic than a classic city wedding. And this celebration set in downtown Vancouver completely fits the bill. Melia Lucida captured as the day unfolded, including a touch of rain that made for the sweet bride and groom portraits under an umbrella.

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From the photographer… Both the ceremony and reception of this classic downtown Vancouver wedding were held in the Spanish Ballroom of the luxurious historic Rosewood Hotel Georgia. The coziness of the interior was in pleasant contrast to the June downpour outside on the streets. The event was planned and coordinated by Kasia Wardowicz of Alicia Keats Weddings and Events and bedecked with leafy greens from Garden Party Flowers, blush and white blooms which were complimented by tones of gold in the decor.

The bride and groom enjoyed a lunch break with the bridal party after the ceremony and family photos before heading out to the streets with the bridal party and their umbrellas followed by a limo trip on their own (with their photo and video teams) to the empty seawall of Stanley Park for some relaxed portraits alone. They returned to cocktail hour for a few more family photos with grandma and a candlelit reception.

Photography: Melia Lucida, Photographer | Cinematography: Love Story Media | Wedding Planning: Alicia Keats | Floral Design: Garden Party Flowers | Wedding Dress: Allure Bridal | Cake: Noms by Mon | Shoes: Manolo Blahnik | Jewelry: Elsa Corsi | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Adrianna Papell | Makeup : Jasmine Hoffman | Officiant: Brent Sheppard | Venue: Rosewood Hotel Georgia | Decor: Upright Decor | Rentals: Pedersens

This is what winter in Florida looks like; a.k.a. gorgeous and I promise I’m only a tiny bit jealous. With styling and planning by Fabulous Chic Weddings, stunning film photography by The Ganeys and the perfect touch of rose gold, it all makes this rustic meets elegant celebration feel so, so luxurious.

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From Courtney of Fabulously Chic Weddings… The bride described how she wanted her wedding to look as “romantic, soft, classic, clean, rustic, and natural”. Ali wanted to accent the beautiful dusty blue shade with gold, rose gold, and the natural element of wood, for the perfect combination of rustic and sophistication. For the florals, the bride wanted mostly ivory flowers with hints of soft blue. We opted for greenery to tie into garden feel of the courtyard, and Queen Anne’s lace for a little more of the rustic feel. LaTavola’s Tuscany line was the perfect linen-like texture for the rustic look. The subtle blue shade “Ocean” brought the perfect blue-gray hue that didn’t look like a baby shower. With religion being such an important part of their lives, they opted to unite in front of an 8 foot tall wooden cross, accented with beautiful blue chiffon and garden florals. Although Ali wanted a beautiful wedding, at the end of the day, what was most important to her was how fun the day was. Ali and Brock opted to do a first look and family photos before the ceremony, which allowed them to enjoy the cocktail hour under the ambiance of the cafe lights and perfect Florida “winter” temperatures to the fullest. The detail the couple cared about the most was the donut bar. Bennet’s donuts are a favorite of the bride and groom’s. They were so excited to share the tasty treat, especially their favorite flavor, maple bacon, as a late night snack and favor for the guests to take home.

From Emily of Emily Katharine Photography… My favorite part of Ali & Brock’s wedding day was the first look. They opted to do something that most couples don’t to make this time even more unique. After their first look, they exchanged their wedding vows. They loved the idea that it was more intimate, and a way to make that commitment to each other with no other distractions. They both ended their vows with the same sentence, and after that, I lost it. It was a beautiful moment.

Photography: The Ganeys | Florist: Libby's Flowers | Invitations: Minted | Bride's shoes: Jimmy Choo | Bridesmaid dresses: BHLDN | Makeup artist: Kellie Heckler | Hair stylist: Darla DaLucca | Calligraphy: Swirls & Sunshine | DJ: Wiley Entertainment | Favors: Bennett's Donuts | Officiant: Jason Justice | Hotel: Hyatt Regency Coconut Point | Chargers and chairs: Party Time Rentals | Dress designer: Pronovias | Dress shop: Laura Jacobs Bridal | Film processing: Richard Photo Lab | Lighting, cross, and dance floor: Island Events | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Papergoods (menu and table numbers): Foiled Merriments | Planner and Stylist: Fabulously Chic Weddings | Signage: Sweet Carolina Collective

Venue hunting was by far, the most stressful, overwhelming part of my personal wedding planning journey – and I imagine I’m not alone. Contracts, confusing terms and all the back and forth left me exhausted and confused. I needed tips and tricks for navigating this uncharted territory and that’s why we have our friends at Easton Events here today to give us the scoop. From what to keep in mind when searching for your special spot to say “I do” to getting the most of your venue, here’s what you need to know!

Getting the most competitive pricing: Venues tend to not be very flexible with their pricing but there are a few factors that may influence their willingness to negotiate. The time of year for your wedding can definitely motivate them to negotiate. Pick off-season months and be flexible with your date. For example, venues on the East Coast are highly unlikely to negotiate for a Saturday in October, but selecting a Sunday in August gives you much more leverage.

Let the salesperson know that their venue is your first choice and that your budget is restricted. Your ability to connect with that salesperson is critical. Finding the right balance of being persistent, persuasive and respectful is key. If you can “engage” with them, they are more likely to make concessions and be flexible.

The time between booking your wedding and the actual wedding date is important as well. If you are trying to book 18 months out, pricing normally will be very firm. But if you are looking at dates six months out, which is shorter than the typical booking cycle (for dates that probably wouldn’t book otherwise), you have a great deal of leverage. Your headcount can also affect your ability to negotiate. If the venue is also handling the food and beverage, a large guest count will give you more influence.

The Booking Basics

Before you fall in love (with your venue) and sign the contract, read the fine print!

How many guests can the space accommodate?

What time can you start setup on property?

When can your guests arrive?

What time must your wedding conclude?

Can you have music outside?

Can the wedding party get ready on site?

What is the rain plan for ceremony and/or cocktails?

What size vehicles can be used for guest transportation?

Will the venue assist in any elements of planning or ceremony assistance?

Are there additional services offered and what are the associated fees?

Are we required to select our wedding vendors from an “Exclusive Vendor List”?

Will I need to provide, lighting, additional restrooms, AV or stage?

** Ask to be referred to a couple of brides who have married in the last year to get their feedback on their experience. The more you know and understand what your venue is able and willing to do for you the happier your planning experience will be!

Know the Difference Between “Will vs. Won’t” and “Can vs. Cannot”

Different venues provide different services, and it’s important to understand exactly what support the venue offers. Using the terms “will vs. won’t” often refers to service – your venue may offer to set out the place cards, for example, but won’t be responsible for babysitting your young guests.

Verbiage around “can vs. can’t” usually comes down to the fine print and non-negotiable terms.

For example, the capacity, noise ordinances, types of vehicles permitted on site, event end time, may be set in stone – no matter how good your relationship is with the event venue, you can’t change these.

Preferred vs. Exclusive Vendors

Find out if your venue has a preferred or exclusive vendor list. A preferred vendor list will consist of selected vendors who have been vetted by the venue, but you will still be permitted to consider vendors not on their list.

An exclusive vendor list means you can only use these vendors, which can drive up costs as clearly only a few vendors have a “lock” on the venue.

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here

Easton Events

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Alexis and Murphy decided to tie the knot in Punta Cana and with one look at the photos by Melissa Jill it’s easy to see why. Think white sand, crystal blue water, and true paradise in every sense of the word. They brought on seasoned wedding pros like The Eventeur to bring their “classic, lux” vision to life, and in our opinion? They nailed it.

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From The Eventeur… Alexis and Murphy were married in Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic with the Caribbean palm trees and lapping ocean water as a backdrop. Alexis has family on the island – in fact, her mother was born and raised there –which made the Dominican Republic as meaningful a destination as it was scenic. Punta Cana boasts one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and Alexis & Murphy’s wedding there was an absolute fairy tale from start to finish. But even the glories of nature couldn’t outshine how stunning and joyous the bride & groom looked as they were wed!

The design of the wedding was lux and classic, with white flowers and elegant details, like the pierced wood fans for the guests to use and the perfectly mismatched bridesmaids’ dresses. Tradition and family are important to the couple, and Alexis was moved to tears when Murphy surprised her with his grandmother’s ring as she prepared for the day.

The wedding was also seasoned with vibrant and unique touches, which accented the refined style and made it a perfect fit for the fun, adventurous couple. The groom, who plays minor league baseball, presented his groomsmen with custom bobbleheads, and cocktail hour was energized by the music of a Dominican trio band. The newlyweds and their guests danced the night away beneath the stars.

Photography: Melissa Jill Photography | Cinematography: The Love Studio | Event Planning: The Eventeur | Floral Design: Verderana Always Green | Wedding Dress: Watters Wtoo | Cake: Cake Studios Bavaro | Stationery: Idieh Design | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Catering: Puntacana Resort & Club | Hair + Makeup: Anna Nuet | DJ: APC Entertainment | Suits: Suitsupply | Venue: Puntacana Resort & Club | Dress Boutique: Mariée | Rentals: Punta Cana Party Events

Meet the Pink Star diamond, a whopping 59.60-carat Flawless Fancy Vivid Pink diamond that just sold in Hong Kong for $71.2 million, breaking records for the most expensive diamond or gemstone ever sold at auction. But that’s not the only record this gem holds — it’s also the largest internally Flawless, Fancy Vivid Pink diamond the GIA has ever graded.

Originally a 132.5 carat rough diamond, the Pink Star took two years to cut and polish after being mined in Botswana by De Beers in 1999. In 2013, it made an appearance on the auction scene when it sold for $83 million to diamond cutter Isaac Wolf, but the transaction fell through when he couldn’t come up with the money, leaving Sotheby’s with the stone.

Renowned jeweler Chow Fai Fook is the proud new owner of this oval mixed-cut beauty, originally mined by De Beers in Africa in 1999. The previous record holder for most expensive jewel was the 14.6 carat Oppenheimer Blue, which sold for $58 million at Christie’s last May.

Photography: Sotheby's

Your besties? The most awesome group of ladies you know. So when the time comes to pop that all-too-important question (“Will you be my bridesmaid?”), simply calling or texting is not an option. You need to get creative, y’all. So today we’re teaming up with our friends at Luxy Theory for some show-stopping ways to show your loves this is an important moment, along with a fabulous giveaway!! Scroll for our five faves.

PEARLS

Okay, ladies. Who doesn’t love a shiny new pair of pearl earrings? The answer is no one, so it makes more than perfect sense to gift your besties with a set of White South Sea pearls that are as rare and difficult to find as they are beautiful. Think 100% genuine, completely untreated pearls from Luxy Theory that are literally the highest grade you can find with a high luster and almost flawless surface. In other words? Your fave ladies will love you.

CHAMPAGNE

Engagements are filled with bubbly popping moments, and asking your besties to stand beside you through every.single.one of them is the first. We love the idea of getting creative with cute little bottles of your favorite sparkling beverage, because honestly? It’s the perfect way to start off this journey together. I mean, there will be many moments of clinking glasses in your future. Make this one the best.

A SWEET NOTE

Love notes aren’t just for your special someone – writing out your feelings for those ladies who’ve been with you through thick and thin is just as touching… and awesome. So when the time comes to ask your faves to cry with you over dresses, taste test cake and help you choose the perfect florals, remind them why you’re friendship has stood the test of time… and why you simply can’t get married without them.

A FABULOUS GIFT

Have a favorite lotion you know your besties will love? Or want to give them a gift card to that special restaurant they are always talking about? Then putting it all together in a sweet little gift is the perfect option. From little token of your affection to that special something you know they’ll love, wrap it all up in a little box and let them know you need their support throughout this entire process. And that includes late night decisions on dress colors.

TASTY TREAT

Let’s be honest, there’s nothing better than a surprise cupcake (or two). So springing a tasty treat on your future maids? Brilliant. From cookies to donuts to that crazy cool mini cake, shipping them each a little something from the yummy department is one way to guarantee they’ll jump at the chance to be your bridesmaid.

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From drop-dead gorgeous jewelry to tasty beverages to yummy treats, making sure your maids know just how much you care is priority number one. That’s why teaming up with a place like Luxy Theory is key. With AAA to AAAA Grade South Sea Pearls (the highest grade that represents just 2% of the pearl harvest!), you can WOW your besties in the best way possible. Find out how to win a pair below.

What: Luxy Theory is giving away a pair of 11-12mm South Sea Pearl Stud Earrings featuring two lustrous AAA-grade South Sea pearls mounted on solid 18-karat gold posts. (Value $6000)

To Enter: CLICK HERE

For Terms & Conditions: CLICK HERE

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Photography: Jodee Debes Phtography (Champagne) + Katie Stoops Photography (Sweet Notes) + Ruth Eileen Photography (Fabuous Gift) + Simply Lace Photography (Tasty Treats)

Calling all shoe lovers… this one’s for you. Because if you have a sweet spot in your heart for breathtaking heels, romantic flats and everything in between, we’re counting down ten of our faves from one of the best in the biz – Bella Belle. Created by two besties that know a thing or two about luxurious leather, hand-sewn beadwork and total comfort, they’ve got this shoe thing down to an absolute science. Plus, they’re amazingly gorgeous. Fall in love below.

Our Top 10 Bella Belle Shoe Picks for Your Big Day

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Our Top 10 Bella Belle Shoe Picks for Your Big Day

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It’s not everyday you slip your foot into a gem like the beauties that Bella Belle crafts, but if any day absolutely calls for it, it’s your wedding day. Think a fresh + feminine approach to design with a collection of shoes that will truly wow (seriously). From the intricate beading to the stylish embroideries and textures to the padded soles that are perfect for dancing down the aisle, showing off your fab personality has never been easier… or more awesome. Plus, each stunning pair is packaged in Bella Belle’s signature blue box. Which means that chic style starts the moment it arrives at your doorstep. Who needs a pair?

Visit Bella Belle today to check out everything from their beaded flats to sandals that are everything you’ve ever wanted to the perfect pair of bow-tied heels. Trust us, you guys… you are going to look awesome.

First comes love. Then comes marriage. Then comes the ultimate honeymoon. And if you want a honeymoon as perfect as your wedding, there’s only one place to look: Black Tomato. We teamed up with the luxury travel planners to dream up the 12 most romantic, relaxing and OMG-worthy honeymoons so all you have to do is enjoy that newlywed bliss. Check out the trip highlights below (any can be tailored to fit your wish list!) and then head to Black Tomato to book the honeymoon of a lifetime! P.S. Don’t forget to mention Style Me Pretty when you check out!

From an island tour in Indonesia to a stop in California before relaxing like a star in Bora Bora, take a peek at the twelve unreal SMP + Black Tomato itineraries below!

Indonesia 

Spend twelve nights traveling around the Indonesian islands, seeing the temples of Java, the beaches of Lombok and the rice paddies of Bali. After indulging in some adventure, you’ll get to relax on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches soaking in the sun and that newlywed bliss!

Italy

La dolce vita awaits in the rolling hills of Italy for this divine 10-night honeymoon! Kiss your wedding diet goodbye (and bring on the wine and carbs) with delectable meals in Tuscany before heading south to the pristine beaches of Sorrento and Amalfi for a little R&R — Italian style!

Spain

The perfect marriage of cultural adventure and seaside relaxation, this 10-night trip through Spain gives you the best of the best. From the idyllic islands of Mallorca, Formentera and Ibiza to buzzing Barcelona, experience luxury at its finest.

South Africa + Mozambique

If you’re going to do a safari, you need to do it right, and loves, this is how you do it right. This 13-night adventure starts with a tour of Cape Town before heading up the coast for spectacular sunsets and delicious wine. Then, get up close and personal with exotic wildlife at an exclusive game resort before jetting off to Mozambique to relax and unwind.

Argentina + Uruguay

Get your fix of Wanderlust and embark on cultural discovery with this 11-night adventure in Argentina and Uruguay. Tango in Buenos Aires, master the art of wine blending in Malbec country before hopping the border to Uruguay, where you’ll soak up the sun on the glamorous beaches of Jose Ignacio!

Barbados + Petit St Vincent

White sand beaches, crystal clear water, private islands and 12 uninterrupted nights with your new hubs — what could be better?! Feel the sand between your toes on the exclusive island of Mustique before setting sail aboard a private yacht to Tobago Cays and Petit St Vincent. Finish your honeymoon in paradise on the pristine beaches of Barbados. Trust us, you’ll never want to leave!

Iceland

Cozy up to marriage in magical Iceland, where you’ll have a honeymoon like no other. Whether you’re exploring the rugged landscape on an ATV, watching the Northern Lights or scuba diving between tectonic plates, you’ll love this unconventional 5-night mini moon in one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.

New Zealand + Fiji

The plane ride to New Zealand is long, but once you get there, you’ll see why it’s so worth it! Feast your eyes on the jaw-dropping landscapes while partaking in the country’s most unique adventures (helicoptering over volcanoes, boating around Queenstown or climbing skyscrapers in Auckland to name a few). Then, switch into relaxation mode on the gorgeous islands of Fiji. Among the lush forests and stunning beaches, discover what newlywed bliss really means!

Vietnam + Cambodia

Experience South East Asia the way you were meant to with this 14-night adventure through the urban centers of Vietnam and the ancient temples of Cambodia. From exclusive guided tours through some of history’s greatest architectural treasures to exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi to sunset dinners on the water, there’s not a moment of this trip you won’t love!

Sri Lanka + Maldives

Loves, we’re calling this the Ultimate Beach Honeymoon, and with 14 nights spent in paradise, it’s just that. Combing the idyllic island lagoon in the Maldives with the rich culture, colonial history and jaw-dropping beaches of Sri Lanka, this is so much more than just a beach honeymoon — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t want to miss. Bonus: a safari in Yala National Park where you just may find some elephants, leopards and monkeys!

Japan

Home to cherry blossoms and one of the world’s most affluent cities, Japan is the perfect honeymoon for the couple who wants something a little out-of-the-box. Experience ancient traditions and contemporary culture as you travel from cutting-edge Tokyo to picturesque Kyoto to the sacred island of Miyajima before heading home with memories that will last you a lifetime!

California + Bora Bora

If you’re marrying the love of your life, it’s safe to say you’re living the dream, but take it one step further with this truly incredible honeymoon through the best of California and magical French Polynesia. From San Francisco to Napa Valley to Yosemite to Big Sur, experience all that California has to offer before jetting off to heaven (a.k.a. Bora Bora). Crystal clear waters and white sand beaches await you in this idyllic island paradise. Before you head back to reality, live it up in La La Land — the perfect end to the perfect honeymoon!

So, what are you waiting for?!
Book your dream honeymoon on Black Tomato NOW!

A great photographer like LR Photography will do just about anything for a good picture. Including follow their bride and groom-to-be 6,000 feet up in the California mountains for an engagement session they’ll always remember. Trust us – one peek at the images and you’ll agree those views were so worth the trek.

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From LR Photography… I had to pleasure of capturing Kristin and Kevin’s engagement session in this unique location in nestled 6000 feet up in the Southern California mountains. We hiked back into the mountains capturing the sweet love that Kristine and Kevin have between one another.

Kristine has such a softness about her that made photographing her a dream, and Kevin’s smile was infectious. I was so lucky to have Brier Rose created a gorgeous bouquet made from garden roses and pampas grass. The end of the session was topped off overlooking inspiration point and the most gorgeous afternoon glow.

Photography: Lr Photography | Floral Design: Brier Rose Design

Relationships aren’t always rainbows and butterflies; they take work, compromise and patience – and these two right here are proof that it’s all 110% worth it. From long distances to ER visits and now a deployment, they’ve weathered storms and come out stronger. Duffy Photo & Film captured their love in person with this gorgeous shoot in the Garden of the Gods – just in time for their upcoming June nuptials. See more in our Vault right this way!

From the Bride-to-be, Katie… Ryan and I met in college at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville where we were introduced by a mutual friend. We didn’t immediately begin dating, however, as our lives took us in different directions. A few years after graduating, we reconnected through none other than the social media app Snapchat! Ryan had been stationed at Fort Knox, Kentucky and I was living in St. Louis. Although a couple states away, four hours was all that stood between us. We began communicating and planned on going to a St. Louis Cardinal game for the Fourth of July.

The date went very well (perhaps with the help of some alcohol to ease the nerves), and Ryan and I bravely (or stupidly) decided to begin a long distance relationship. Being a school based Speech-Language Pathologist, I have summers off. I was able to go visit Ryan a couple weeks later in Kentucky. Again, we were both nervous because this would be the second weekend that we spent together during our new relationship. Somehow, we survived July and made it to August.

Unfortunately the Army took Ryan to California for the entire month of August. Not only was he not the usual four hours away, he was now across the country! We stayed in touch through texting and calling and finally made it to September.

September was a critical month in our relationship. During a visit to Kentucky, I slipped and hit my head/face (pretty darn hard) and ended up with a black eye. If that wasn’t enough, Ryan developed appendicitis and ended up in the ER. There I was, swollen face and black eye sitting next to a stubborn, try-to-be-tough-thru-the-pain Ryan in a hospital all weekend. That was a sight to see! It was September that we began to realize how deep our feelings truly were for one another.

Let’s jump to the proposal. Ryan was stationed at Fort Lee, Virgina for his Captain’s Career Course Training for his promotion to Captain in the Army. We were prepared to spend three months apart until I could visit during my spring break at the end of March. I share a birthday weekend with his sister, so I wasn’t at all surprised that their dad and step-mom invited us over for dinner to celebrate our birthdays. The whole family (my mom, Ryan’s mom, etc) was invited, which also didn’t raise any red flags because we have all celebrated Thanksgiving together. I arrived at Ryan’s dad’s around 6 p.m. and put my purse and coat in a spare bedroom. He asked me to go into the garage to grab a beer and walking back into the kitchen I was extremely surprised to find Ryan standing there smiling. Thinking that was my surprise, I immediately went to him and hugged him. Ryan gave me a card (his family is big on cards… I think he gets it from his mom ;) ) so I opened it and began reading. As I was reading I realized everyone was recording me on their phones. When I got to the en, Ryan was down on one knee. He pulled out a beautiful ring and asked me to marry him. It was the best night of my life. Reluctantly, we spent another couple of months apart until Ryan completed his career course training.

Fast forward to now: the military has brought us to Fort Carson in Colorado. After a couple years of being apart, we are finally together… in the same state! We are excited to continue our journey in beautiful Colorado Springs. That excitement was short lived as Ryan is now proudly serving our wonderful country overseas in Afghanistan instead of acclimating to our new life in Colorado.

Soon after our engagement, Ryan and I set a wedding date for June 3, 2017. I was extremely excited to begin wedding planning. It was a piece of cake to find a venue. Once that was booked, our amazing wedding coordinator gave us a list of vendors. From that list of referrals, Ryan and I chose to reach out to Duffy Photo & Film and were immediately impressed with Ali’s style and professionalism. Since we found out Ryan was deploying, we did not think we would have the time for an engagement session since we were stationed in Colorado and wouldn’t have time for a trip back to St. Louis, MO. Our amazing, incredibly talented photographer offered to travel to Colorado Springs with her business partner and husband, Beau. Ryan was set to leave August 5, 2016. With proper communication and a little fate, Ali and Beau arrived to complete our photo shoot on August 1, 2016…perfect timing and perfect weather to shoot our engagement session at Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, CO. We were thrilled! Ali and Beau did an amazing job and our pictures turned out beautifully. I cannot wait for Ryan to see the portraits hanging on our wall when he gets home from his deployment.

Throughout our relationship, Ryan and I have been tested. Our entire relationship revolved around ‘the next long weekend,’ or ‘a holiday break,’ or ‘summer time.’ We thought we were finally catching a break when I decided to move to Colorado with Ryan. Soon after we arrived, Ryan got the orders to “cross the pond” and take command of a unit stationed in Afghanistan. As a soon-to-be military wife, I was faced with several changes and heartache. The distance was nothing new, however, the time difference, the length of time apart, and the acclimation to a new environment was new to both of us. This is Ryan’s first deployment and my first time being exposed to the military lifestyle. This has been our ultimate test. Fortunately, I met new friends while Ryan has been gone. I’ve also kept myself busy with my job as well as wedding planning. There is no easy way to get through a deployment.

The biggest take-aways I have learned from Ryan’s and my challenges are to #1 Communicate your feelings as soon as you can – don’t hold them in; it’ll cause bigger issues. #2 Don’t blame one another for the timing, scheduling conflicts, and Uncle Sam when duty calls. #3 Trust in God and believe that one another is in good hands. #4 Trust one another! #5 No matter how often (or little) you’re able to talk, you have to know and believe you are each other’s number one and always in each others’ hearts.

Thank you for listening to our story. It’s only just beginning. :)

Photography: Duffy Photo Film | Floral Design: Flora By Nora | Bride-to-be's Boots: Kohl's | Bride-to-be's Jeans: Express | Bride-to-be's Jewelry: Macy's | Bride-to-be's Top: Charming Charlie | Cheese Knives: Restoration Hardware | Cutting Board: Etsy - Bungalow Boo | Film Processing + Scanning: Indie Film Lab | Groom-to-be's Jeans: American Eagle | Groom-to-be's Shirt: American Eagle | Groom-to-be's Shoes: Rockport

This nursery designed by mama and blogger, Lauren Foster of Love Lola, is as bright and happy as the adorable leading lady that it was crafted for. And who doesn’t love a tassel trim curtain moment? No one that’s who. Peek inside this magical space photographed by Jessie Nichols that embraces color in the best of ways.

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I had so much fun designing my little girl, Piper’s, nursery. She has a head full of red hair and a fiery personality to match it. I wanted the room to capture her personality, so I went with a white, bright backdrop and added pops of color. When planning her nursery I originally thought I would stick to a neutral palette. But when I found the pink rug from Babasouk, I completely turned my design plan around. The rug was the first item for the room I purchased and I designed the rest of the room around it, bringing in pops of blue, pink, and yellow. I decorated the floating hexagon shelves with a few mementos for a personal touch, including her ultrasound picture and sterling mug from her great grandmother. I didn’t finish the room until a few months after she was born, but it was well worth the wait. It serves as her nursery and our playroom, and we have clocked many special hours reading books and singing songs in here. I know it will transition well into a toddler room, and is the perfect backdrop to watching her grow.

Photography: Jessi Nichols Photography | Design: Lauren Foster Of Love Lola | Changing Pad: Land Of Nod | Cloud Pillow: Land Of Nod | Cotton Candy Pillow: Land Of Nod | Crib: Ikea | Curtains: Wayfair | Diaper Cart: Ikea | Elephant Rocker: Pottery Barn Kids | Flamingo: Anthropologie | Floor Lamp: Ikea | For Like Ever Print: Super Rural | Hexagon Shelves: Etsy | Leather Pouf: Hayneedle | Neon Dash Blanket: Land Of Nod | Neon Nightstand: Land Of Nod | Rocking Chair: Nursery Works | Rug: Babasouk | The World is Your Oyster Print: Lulu & Georgia | Unicorn: Target | Yellow Dress: June and January

First comes wedding, then comes…happy honeymoon times! This post-nuptial trip is a time of connection and celebration (and, hopefully, several afternoons spent in cabanas with some cocktails). Since so much of your focus is on the wedding, it’s easy to let the honeymoon slip to the back of your mind. However, with a little thought, you can ensure that this special trip is filled with memories you’ll treasure forever.

Choose Your Adventure

The key to a blissful honeymoon is picking the right place. Now, the right place will vary couple to couple. Think about your tastes and follow your passions to the perfect locale. Are you Anglophiles who love history and strong cups of tea? Say “cheerio” to England! Do you both love sunbathing and drinks decorated with umbrellas and pineapple wedges? Embrace the island life in Ibiza or Hawaii! Of course, your vacation preferences may diverge but don’t worry. Mixing it up on a trip leads to real adventures and may expose you to things you didn’t know you loved. So if your partner is dreaming of Oktoberfest in Germany but you have your heart set on a cruise, go for a compromise, like a riverboat trip down the Danube. It’s fun to see each other in different elements so consider it all part of the experience!

Plan the Itinerary

It’s a good idea to plan ahead to minimize stress and that “how do we get to the hotel??” feeling. You’ll want to figure out transportation ahead of time and buy tickets for some of the we-must-see-these attractions (oftentimes, they’re cheaper online). But once you have those things squared away, feel free to relax and keep your agenda a little, well, open-ended. When you arrive, you might learn about some hidden gems from locals or feel like you want to relax more than hit a ton of sights. This attitude will keep you and your partner from feeling pressured. After all your wedding planning, the last thing you want is stress!

Think Outside the Box

Tradition dictates that the honeymoon immediately follows the wedding. I say, forget tradition! Maybe you want to save up some money before going on a big trip. Maybe you’re still in school or your partner can’t get enough time off from work for a honeymoon. Maybe the idea of heading out town right after the wedding is way too overwhelming. Don’t feel compelled to do anyone else’s version of your honeymoon. I’ve worked with many couples who’ve waited a year to save up for their ideal trip and some who even opted for staycations. No matter what you decide, the only two opinions that matter are yours and his.

Unplug From the World

Set down the phones and leave the computers in the hotel suite. Enjoy walking hand-in-hand down the beach and staying up late with a bottle of local wine, sharing your dreams and secrets. These are the days you’ll be missing and that’s the beauty of life together.

xoxo,

Desiree Hartsock

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Sea side towns on the East Coast have a very distinct vibe. Think shingled gray ladies and hydrangeas galore set against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s so quintessential and pretty and when your family has a backyard in the Hamptons just begging for a wedding? You hop on that! Pore through this day captured by Kelsey Combe that embodies all the things we love about a DIY beach celebration.

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From the Bride… One early fall morning Kurt proposed on Wainscott Beach where we had spent the past several summers falling in love. Not only had Kurt been planning our engagement, he had also put together another proposal – a wedding on his family’s property in the Hamptons.

Kurt and I both love to plan surprises, parties, and other celebrations so we were beyond thrilled to take advantage of planning a DIY wedding the following summer. From designing my dress with Modern Trousseau, creating our wedding crest with Betsy from Lemontree Calligraphy, wedding paper with Sandy from Roseville Designs, and laying out the reception details—we enjoyed putting our personal touch on everything.

Our vision of a romantic garden wedding was easy to accomplish on his aunt and uncle’s property; it didn’t require much to enhance the natural beauty. We paired classic Hamptons white hydrangeas with white and blush garden roses to complement the green landscape. We strung bistro lights inside the tent, hung paper lanterns from the trees, and placed candles everywhere to create the romantic vision we had in mind.

We also wanted to incorporate our families and their traditions. Looking back, we are so happy to have done so. My mother and her sisters had my grandmother’s engagement ring made into necklace which I wore throughout the day. I also pinned a pendant that she had worn, on her wedding day, to my bouquet. Kurt’s mother made my gorgeous lace veil that perfectly complemented my dress. During our ceremony, we were able to light the same unity candle used in my parents’ wedding 35 years prior. We wrapped family photos that documented weddings from past generations around “Our Family Tree,” a focus point during the cocktail hour.

After the ceremony, we toured our favorite places in East Hampton with Kelsey Combe who captured the day with our bridal party and parents. One of our most memorable moments was taking our wedding portrait photos on the very spot where Kurt proposed. The lighting Kelsey captured on the overcast beach was magical.

The reception site was an absolute dream and would not have come to life without the assistance of our dedicated family. Our morning was stress free knowing that Gina, our day of coordinator, was also there making sure all the details we had planned were executed perfectly. Dancing under the stars, (and surprise fireworks set off by a neighbor!) with music from the talented Silver Arrow Band, was exactly how we wanted to spend the night with our guests. I look at the photos nearly every day, and pinch myself that this was how we celebrated the start of our lives together.

Photography: Kelsey Combe Photography | Coordination: Details Wedding Coordination | Florist: East Hampton Flowers | Wedding Dress: Modern Trousseau | Cupcakes: Two Little Red Hens Bakery | Invitations: Roseville Designs | Ceremony Venue: Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church | Reception Venue: Private Residence | Bride's Shoes: Dune | Engagement Ring: Heather Fletcher at Bespoke Fine Jewels | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Azazie | Catering: East End Events Catering | Hair & Makeup: Erica Does Makeup | Calligraphy: Meaghan Donlon | Band: Silver Arrow Band | Tent: The New York Tent Company | Crest Design: Lemontree Calligraphy | Signage & Dessert Table: DIY | Watercolor Artist: Lemontree Calligraphy & Illustration | Wedding Rings: Lauren B Jewelry

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Sapphire Events – you deserve a standing ovation for this work-of-art wedding. Inspired by the idea of a lavish secret garden party, you pulled off some incredible design feats, including an inverted garden made up of 24,000 (!!) white tulips suspended upside-down above the dance floor. And if that’s not enough to leave you speechless, just wait until you see the cake by Melissa’s Fine Pastries or carefully crafted menu from Joel Catering. This opulent soiree is one we’ll surely never forget thanks to the captures by A Bryan Photo and Le Cape Weddings.

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From Sapphire Events… Haylie and Bradley are high school sweethearts with a love for travel and entertaining. The couple fortified their long distance relationship while Bradley attended Georgetown. Bradley and Haylie reunited in South Bend, Indiana during Bradley’s law school studies at Notre Dame, where he proposed marriage on a Christmas tree farm to an unsuspecting Haylie. The couple immediately celebrated with a bottle of champagne and a night out with friends. Now they call New Orleans home and teamed up with Sapphire Events to pull off a spectacular soirée in the historic French Quarter.

Inspired by the bride’s parents’ intimate garden wedding, Sapphire Events planned a regal affair inviting guests to enjoy a ceremonious and meaningful formal garden party with charming details, traditional flair, and majestic sensibilities.

The guests’ first touchpoint for this event was a delicate and beautifully designed save-the-date with an image of the couple superimposed with the date of the event in a gilded folder encasement designed by Lehr and Black, announcing the impending nuptials in New Orleans. To follow up the grand save-the-date, guests will shortly receive a lavish suede-lined boxed invitation featuring ivory 8-ply, engraved, gilded beveled-edge invitations for events occurring over the four-day weekend celebration. 

The wedding day started with a mid-afternoon Catholic mass at the St. Louis Cathedral in the French Quarter followed by cocktails, dining, and revelry in the evening at the Old Ursuline Convent, the oldest building in the Mississippi River valley. The decor consisted of creamy white, ivory, verdant greens, patina, soft hues, natural wood tones, and gilded details.

Inspired by the notion of a secret garden party, the dancing tent revealed itself as an unexpected and imaginative continuation of the motif with an inverted garden composed of 24,000 white tulips suspended upside-down over the dance floor. The center of the installation featured an oversized, crystal chandelier, and the entire suspension was enhanced with pin spotting and directional lighting from both overhead and underneath to maximize the impact of the statement piece.

As the focal point of the dining tent, the bridal cake was served as a dramatic statement piece anchoring the celebration space. A European-style confection in dramatic scale, layers covered in delicate buttercream with a smooth finish, interspersed with layers of dense, textural florals in neutral tones, using hydrangea, roses, garden roses, spray roses, gardenias, peonies, and dendrobium orchids. 

A custom dessert display was inspired by the flagship Ladurée boutique in Paris, both in scale and structure. One solid wall featured a custom built 8’ tall by 16’ wide by 1.5’ deep Ladurée dessert display. The Dessert Suite also featured Bradley’s cake, a realistic model of Tolkein’s castle city Minas Tirith. The five-foot scale model was placed on a 60” round table draped in a sage linen. 

This was a luxury garden party to remember!

Photography: A Bryan Photo | Cinematography: Le Cape Weddings | Event Planning + Design: Sapphire Events | Floral Design: Kim Starr Wise Floral Events | Wedding Dress: Inbal Dror | Cakes : Melissa's Fine Pastries | Stationery : Lehr and Black | Ceremony Venue: Old Ursuline Convent | Reception Venue: Old Ursuline Convent | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Joanna August | Catering: Joel Event Catering | Hair and Makeup: Flawless Bride | Calligraphy: Lehr and Black | DJ: DJ Jacob Towe | Groom's Attire: Strong Suit | Beverage Service: The Grand Bevy | Custom Rentals: Luminous Events | Desserts: Sucre | Glassware: Casa de Perrin | Lighting & Projection: DJ Jacob Towe | Linens: I Do Linens | Reception Band: Elan Artists | Rentals: Revelry Event Designers | Rentals: 12th Table | Rentals: Perrier Party Rentals | Welcome Boxes: A Signature Welcome

Looking absolutely fabulous on your Big Day is always #weddinggoals numero uno, but tackling the style department AND staying on budget is easier said than done. That’s where The Tie Bar and their selection of premium neckwear + accessories comes in to play. With chic ties, colorful pocket squares and everything in between, their price points are the opposite of budget-blowing. Do yourself a favor and scroll to start saving.

Outfitting your guy in neckwear that starts at $19? That’s a pretty amazing thing. Especially when you’re knee-deep in wedding planning costs that are, let’s be honest, totally stressing you out. So now you can finally breathe easy, because The Tie Bar has you covered with a lineup of luxury neckwear and accessories that will fit any budget, big or small. Think pocket squares at $10, tie bars at $15, socks at $8 and accessories at $5. Not to mention you can honestly find any color you could ever dream up (from blush pink to mint to sage to opal and burgundy), so your entire bridal party will look gorgeous and cohesive. Looking lovely doesn’t have to cost a fortune, you know.

Whether you’re looking to outfit your entire bridal party or simply want to gift your man the best wedding day present ever (and all for under $50), The Tie Bar is the place to go. They even have a selection of awesome + cost-effective dress shirts and, starting in April, will be adding new lines perfect for weddings. Chat with one of their in-house wedding stylists for some much-need guidance and be sure to ask about their newest BHLDN collection, beautiful ties that coordinate with BHLDN’s gorgeous gowns. Enough said, right? We know.

Contact The Tie Bar today at 877-888-TIES, their fab chat tool or by emailing weddings@thetiebar.com.

This springtime wedding doesn’t shy away from color and that’s exactly why we love it. Punchy shades of red made for a statement springtime palette and the images by Lori Paladino speak for themselves. Dive right in and let the inspiration begin.

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From the Bride… I envisioned a spring wedding that is beautiful and breathtaking yet feels comfortable like home. We wanted to make sure that all our family and friends had fun in a beautiful setting, which is why we paid extra attention to selecting a perfect venue.

I had wanted a rustic feminine romantic style. I love the dusty blue and champagne gold color palette from the beginning because of its romantic feminine feel but the venue calls for warmer colors so we added the cranberry red. It turned out to be perfect – the red made the whole place alive and was the perfect addition to our color palette.

The flowers were designed by Fleurs de France. We wanted to incorporate the colors cranberry, blue and white along with my favorite flower, peonies. My gown was from Amsale, a simple heart-shaped A-line. We did candies in a milk jar as favors, and our “naked” cake was provided by Crisps and had three flavors. They were simply divine.

My advice for other brides is to enjoy the process and don’t worry about what others think. Leading up to the event I used previous weddings that I’ve seen either in blogs, magazines, social media as a measure to plan for our wedding and as a result, I had stressed on trying to make our perfect. But after the event, although things were not perfect, I realize that no matter what, our wedding was going to be the most special simply because it is ours. And invest on a fantastic photographer because those photographs will last you for a lifetime!

Photography: Lori Paladino Photography | Event Design: Table 6 Productions | Floral Design: Fleurs de France | Invitations: Simply Personal | Ring : Tiffany & Co. | Makeup + Hair: April Foster Bridal | Ceremony Music: Andy Kong | Venue: St Francis Winery Vineyards | Bride's Attire: Amsale | Cake Artist: Crisp Bakeshop | Caterering: Park Avenue Catering | Photo Booth: Close Cut Production | Reception Music: Close Cut Production

Chasing that magic light is a skill that Emily Jane knows all too well. For this wildly gorgeous engagement, not only did she chase it, but she absolutely captured it. From glowing fields to a cozy afternoon at home, pore through all the pretty images of these soon to be Mr. and Mrs. right here in the vault.

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On the day of Katie + Peter’s engagement session it was supposed to rain. Katie + Peter came from over an two hours to photograph their session so we made quick changes to shoot inside, but when the sun came out we rushed outside to capture the golden hour we were hoping for. This entire session is shot on film.

Wedding Photographers: Emily Jane Photography

I’m voting for Edison lightbulbs to be the next big thing in wedding decor; one look through this gallery and I have a feeling you’ll be on board as well. Industrial yet super chic, these details are one of many for this Southern California celebration designed by Bliss Productions. Jeremy Chou captured it all, leaving us breathless and in awe of all the beauty – see more in our Vault right this way!

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From Jeremy Chou… Christian and Tina got married at one of the most spectacular wedding venues in Southern California; Casa Romantica in San Clemente. The venue features a sweeping view of the Pacific Ocean and sits right on top of a cliff; truly a breathtaking place to get married! The reception setup by Bliss Production was an utter dream. Edison lightbulbs were hung from custom structures specifically built for the wedding, and succulent details adored the reception banquet tables. Tina and Christian celebrated with some of their closest friends and family, and Tina looked absolutely amazing in a Berta bridal gown!

Photography: Jeremy Chou Photography | Videography: Yours Truly Media | Event Design: Bliss Productions | Floral Design: Nisie's Enchanted Florist | Wedding Dress: Berta | Catering: Giracci Vineyards Farms | Hair + Makeup: Dial M Style | DJ: SoundWave Productions | Wedding Venue: Casa Romantica | Linens: Luxe Linen | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Signature Party Rentals

Hi SMP readers! Blogger Bride, Nicole here and I’m excited to reflect back on our wedding now that we have been married a few months. Even though I’m a wedding photographer, I have to admit that I underestimated just how much goes into planning (peek back at my entire journey!) We wanted our wedding to be elegant but unfussy, joyful and intentional.  And since we love to travel, no one was surprised when we chose to have a destination wedding.

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And a look back at the entire wedding weekend!

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We welcomed our 30 guests to Villa Petrolo in Tuscany with the most Italian of welcome cocktails, an Aperol spritz, followed by an informal pizza and prosecco gathering. It was a fun, low-key kick off to wedding festivities and the perfect opportunity for old friends to reconnect and new friendships to begin. Our goal was to create a relaxed weekend in a beautiful setting and for the wedding to feel more like being hosted at an intimate and lively dinner party. We invited all of our guests to stay with us at the villa and surrounding farmhouses. The next day we all hopped on a shuttle bus to explore Pienza, a charming hill town in the Val d’Orcia known for its delicious pecorino cheese and Renaissance architecture. That evening we got on the shuttle again to Castello di Meleto in Chianti for our rehearsal dinner, with wine flowing and hilarious and sweet informal toasts from friends. Hosting our rehearsal dinner in a frescoed room of a medieval castle was one of the most memorable events of the weekend.

Our wedding day was even more emotional than I expected. The ceremony took place on the steps in front of the villa, led by our dear friend who crafted a beautiful testament to our understanding of love, culture, and marriage. Our chuppah was decorated with olive branches, and the top was graced by a tallit (prayer shawl) brought from Israel by Daniel’s grandfather, while beneath our feet was a Moroccan handira (marriage blanket) we had purchased while traveling in Marrakech. We stood under the chuppah and committed to choosing each other that day and every day forward. Short ceremonies have become more popular, but we were happy to have a 45 minute ceremony that included circling each other, the seven blessings read in Hebrew and a modernized English interpretation, long weepy personal vows, three poetry readings, and a slightly less conventional “science reading” (Daniel was a biology major in college after all).

At the end of the ceremony, Daniel stepped on a glass and together we jumped over a broom! There are many explanations for why the groom breaks a glass, traditionally to remember the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem or to acknowledge the fragility of life and brokenness in the world even on such a happy day. We embraced the idea of a symbol that connects one generation to another. Jumping the broom is an African-American wedding custom that dates back to slavery. Slave marriages were not legally recognized but this act granted dignity to seeking love and domesticity within the confines of bondage. Much like breaking the glass, this is both a joyful moment and a powerful reminder of cultural memory.

We tried to make decisions for details that reflected our aesthetic and our budget. One thing I was excited about was investing in decor that could also be used in our new home since we bought a house just before our trip to Italy! The copper candlesticks and Silk and Willow table runner are now on our dining table at home, for example. Instead of hiring a florist, we chose to use olive leaves as decor, with me and my bridesmaids carrying olive leaves gathered in bunches for bouquets tied together with Silk and Willow ribbon. Working on our invitations gave me the inspiration to finally study calligraphy in order to do the calligraphy design for our invite and hand calligraph the addresses on each envelope! I used handmade paper with its luxe organic feel and found a wonderful and affordable letterpress printer. One of my favorite moments during wedding planning was when I had a minor melt-down to Daniel, saying that I should have just hired someone because my calligraphy didn’t look professional, and he told me that it looked beautiful but more importantly, that it was more meaningful since it was created by me. Our invitation felt more like a handwritten letter.

I was certain I would choose a colorful untraditional dress before I went shopping, but I ended up choosing a white lace dress. The moment I put it on I felt like a bride, so in the end, I wasn’t quite as daring as I thought I would be! Thanks to Rent the Runway, I had fun gowns for the welcome reception and rehearsal dinner, and on our wedding day I slipped into a stylish reception dress just after cocktail hour. I wanted to invest in accessories that fit with my style and that I could continue wearing after the wedding, so I found simple brass earrings at an Oakland boutique, a brass bangle at Marisa Mason, and dusty pink heeled boots from Anthropologie.

We were so lucky that two of my dear wedding industry friends made the trip to Italy with us! The weekend would not have been the success that it was without Nira of Amber Events making everything happen and Kristina Adams behind the camera. I still don’t know how Nira managed everything she did, with friendly composure and grace throughout! Kristina documented the weekend so organically and made sure that taking photos didn’t take us away from the party for too long! Her luminous film style captured the moments of our wedding in a way that we will cherish for years to come.

The following day was warm and sunny and we had a leisurely post-wedding brunch in the courtyard where dinner was meant to be the night before. In the afternoon guests went on walks on the property amid olive groves and vineyard-covered hills, and Villa Petrolo hosted a wine tasting for us. On our final evening my sister, who is a private chef, cooked a delicious farewell dinner.

As a wedding photographer who has seen so many different kinds of weddings, I think it’s important to note that the most important tip about wedding planning is to be authentic to you and your relationship. Don’t feel you have to abide by every tradition or unsolicited opinion! Throw “must” and “should” out the window. At least that’s what guided me, and I already wish I could go back and do it all over again.

Happy Planning!

xo,

Nicole

Photography: Kristina Adams Photography | Wedding Planning: Amber Events | Wedding Dress: Reformation | Wedding Bands: Cat Bird | Catering: Catering in Toscana | DJ: DJ Francis | Venue: Villa Petrolo | Bridal Jewelry : Marissa Mason | Bridal Shoes : Anthropologie | Bridal Shoes : Manolo Blahnik | Groom Suit: J.Crew | Grooms Shoes: Novocas | Letterpress Printer: Reb Peters Press | Rentals: Happy Days | Ribbon + Table Runner + Invitation Paper: Silk and Willow

There is nothing more romantic than a wedding ceremony on top of a mountain with breathtaking views! And that’s exactly what this couple decided to do with their closest friends and family and an incredible backdrop — Whiteface Mountain in New York. One of the most important factors to the couple was photography as they wanted images that told a story that would last a lifetime. After just one glance at this gallery, all captured by Alexandra Meseke Photography, this couple undoubtedly got their wish!

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From the groom… Prior to actual wedding planning, we discussed what type of wedding we thought we would want. Initially we intended on a larger sized wedding with all our friends and family as most people tend to do. Not only did we have to decide on the size of the wedding, but also the location as we were living in Texas and Brittany’s family is from Texas but my family is from New York. Because I have a larger family, we decided to have the wedding in New York with a separate reception party in Texas when we returned. While visiting family in New York, we began our wedding venue hunt. We had found a venue that we liked and were planning on that site; however, because of poor communication with the venue’s coordinator and not being able to hear back from her in a timely manner we decided not to go with that venue. So the hunt continued.

One factor of utmost importance to us was the photographers. We wanted to have our magical day captured in a way that told a story and not just still images pulled out of moments in time. While researching photographers in the New York area, we noticed some venues that appealed to us in their pictures. We were thinking about alternative solutions, when we remembered seeing a wedding that was shot on the top of some mountain while we were researching photographers. We went back and looked at those pictures and saw that they were done on Whiteface Mountain in Wilmington, New York. From that point on, our idea of a big wedding completely shifted. We decided that we would rather have a small intimate ceremony with only our closest family along with groomsmen and bridesmaids. When we brought this idea to our parents, none of them thought it was a good idea, but we decided to do what made us happy and what we wanted. We wanted our wedding to be relaxed, not overwhelming, and most importantly centered on us. We had the wedding in the middle of the week in order to better coordinate with the photographer. We planned a private dinner with music after at the banquet hall of the Hotel Northwoods, which is where we were staying. That weekend we had a “reception” in my home town with all my family and friends. A month later, we had the “Texas reception.”

We went for a neutral color pattern focused around grays, browns, and blush in a simple style. One unique element to our wedding was rather than having a unity candle or the sand pouring, we decided to plant a tree. We researched different trees and decided on a scarlet red maple, which we would later plant at my parents’ house so we could watch our tree grow as our relationship does. We brought soil from Texas and soil from New York to pour into the pot at the ceremony. Brittany loves classical music and jazz. We used a Beats Pill Bluetooth speaker for the entrance songs and did our own music on her father’s PA system using Spotify for the dinner. 

One of my favorite moments of the wedding was when my wife’s vail took flight in the middle of the ceremony. Luckily the vail did not completely blow off the mountain and was able to be retrieved. Brittany’s favorite moment was after the rest of the wedding party and guests had departed the mountain and only we and the photographers remained. Our photographers had us dance together on the top of the mountain, and they took pictures while I spun, dipped, and embraced my wife. Collectively, we really enjoyed our photographers. They were the best people we coordinated with throughout the entire planning process and really made the entire wedding experience so much better.

The flowers came from Lake Placid Flower and Gift Company. Initially my wife wanted peonies; however, at the time of our wedding, they were out of season and would have been quite expensive to get. She decided to go with garden roses instead and could not have been happier with that decision. The dress came from BHLDN in Houston, Texas. The dress fit my wife’s simple yet elegant style. In addition to the dress feeling right, her experience at that shop far surpassed any other shop. She felt like her wants and needs were being addressed, which was not the case at other shops.

Advice to Future Brides: Do what makes you and your husband happy. Forget everyone else, after all this day is about you two. That often can get lost in the planning and coordinating and the feeling that everyone else has to have what they want. In the end it is about you and your husband.

Photography: Alexandra Meseke Photography | Floral Design: Lake Placid Flower & Gift | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Ceremony Venue: Whiteface Mountain | Bride's Shoes: Betsey Johnson | Jewelry: Kendra Scott Jewelry | Bridesmaid's Dresses: David's Bridal | Bridesmaid's Dresses: Asos | Bridesmaid's Dresses: Francesca's Collections | Groom's Attire: Calvin Klein | Groom's Attire: Cole Haan | Groomsmen's Attire: The Tie Bar | Groomsmen's Attire: The Suspender Store