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Enchanting Alfresco Wedding Positively Glowing with Candlelight

Give us twinkling candlelight, a canopy of chandeliers and open air dining under the stars and we’ll call that the epitome of romance. From the tablescape sprinkled with gold a little touch of blush crafted by Casa de Perrin to the cascade of flowers at every turn by Cody Floral Design, and the scenic beauty of San Ysidro Ranch, get cozy with Michelle Beller‘s photos and prepare to be totally enchanted.

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From the Bride… We envisioned our wedding to be modern, traditional and elegant. We chose the San Ysidro Ranch for it’s storied history, privacy, romantic, intimate and scenic location. Because only our immediate families were in attendance, we opted for a formal and elegant affair serenaded by an acoustic duo under the stars. We enjoyed a caviar and champagne cocktail hour, followed by a fine wine pairing and a five course dinner with accompaniment of amuse bouche and an intermezzo.

It was truly an affair to remember from the exchanging of our vows on the lower lawn, to the decadent sit-down dinner, chandeliers hanging from the branches above us creating a whimsical setting. The enchanting glow of the candles, lavish table settings, aromatic fragrance from the lush floral arraignments complimenting the aroma of the fine cuisine. Laughter coupled with the cheers and speeches and background music creating a magical evening to remember. We are exceedingly happy and pleased that our dreams were executed so flawlessly.

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Photography: Michelle Beller | Event Design: La Fete | Floral Design: Cody Floral Design | Invitations: East Six | Catering: San Ysidro Ranch | Hair and Makeup: TEAM Hair and Makeup | Lighting: Ambient Event Design | Ceremony Music: Dwight Kennedy | Venue: San Ysidro Ranch | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Town And Country | Tabletop: Casa de Perrin

This Wedding Will Make You Fall Ever so Hard for Green Garland

From a stunning backdrop to alfresco dining, this wedding checks off all our favorite detail boxes but the standout decor item has to be those cascading garlands. Clementine Botanical Art crafted centerpieces that will stop you dead in your tracks. Promise. Take a peek at greenery galore and a wedding dress that also has show-stopping tendencies captured by Mint Photography.

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Taylor and Brandt’s outdoor stunner of a wedding was full of timeless details. We love that they chose a classic color scheme. The black and navy touches provided perfect contrast to the glowing white details. The venue itself glowed on this sun drenched fall evening and provided the most amazing backdrop to capture this couple’s perfect day. From the elegance of the details and portraits to the amazing dance party that ended the night, this wedding was all around perfection!

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Photography: Mint Photography | Videography: Mason Jar Films | Catering: Word Of Mouth Catering | Hair and Makeup: Julia Benton and Nicki Werner | Band: In10City | Wedding Venue: Villa Del Lago | Assistant Photography: Natalie Jo Weddings | Bride's Gown: Galia Lahiv | Film Scans: Richard Photo Lab | Floral: Clementine Botanical Art | Rentals: Premiere Events

The True Definition of a Fairytale Wedding

When I was looking for my own wedding gown, I had but one request. I wanted the biggest, most beautiful ballgown I could get my hands on. And as it appears, this gorgeous bride had the same idea that I did (smart girl). Because to me, if you’re going to have a ballroom wedding, you might as well go for a serious ballroom gown. This affair is a TRUE fairytale celebration with the most gorgeous florals from Square Root, perfect images from our friends, Michael + Anna Costa and gown that will stop you in your tracks. Click here for more!

From the Michael + Anna Costa…Ali and Gisoo’s wedding day started with the sound of the ocean waves crashing on the sand and the salty sea air floating through the double french doors in to their presidential suite. The calming, relaxed vistas of the ocean meeting the curved landscape of the Santa Barbara coastline would set the scene for their personal and intimate nuptials as they were surrounded by close friends and treasured family.

The bride was adorned with a beautiful, traditional ballgown and had a flowing veil that, when caught by the sun, shone like an angel. The ceremony site overlooked the vast ocean with views of the islands out in the distance. The lavish Sofreh-ye Aghd was a true sight to behold, with white and silver accents and a striking mirror and floral. As Ali & Gisoo finalized their vows with a kiss they were surrounded immediately by friends and family with hugs and words of deep congratulations.

The reception was decorated with true elegance and highlighted with a decadent dessert table that included every manner of fruit and sweet delicacy one could imagine. The evening was full of dancing, dining and pure joy emanating from the bride and groom and all their guests.

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Photography: MICHAEL + ANNA COSTA PHOTOGRAPHY | Videography: Chris Angeles Films | Coordination: Donna Romani Events | Floral Design: Square Root | Cake: Lele's Patisserie | DJ : Mike Soltani | Wedding Venue: Bacara Resort & Spa | Ceremony/ Cocktail Music: Vincent And Vedant | Fruit/ Sweets Table: Hasmik Party Services | Sofreh: Sargordan Sofreh Wedding Arrangements

Saying I Do in Tuscany Never Disappoints

Newly engaged friends, if you’ve got a summer destination wedding on the mind—this one’s for you. You really can’t go wrong with a Tuscan fete on a sunny day, especially when you’ve got Super Tuscan Wedding Planners, Flowers Living and M & J Photography in your vendor team. Need a little more convincing? The gallery tells all—and you can find more in this stunner locale right here.

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From Super Tuscan Wedding PlannersOn the 20th of August, in a really hot summer day, we celebrated the love of Sarah and Paul! They decided to get married in Tuscany because they fell in love with this region: landscape, people, food and culture. And they decided to share all of this with family and friends in this romantic and rustic chic wedding day! Stunning locations: Horti Leonini, gardens in San Quirico d’Orcia, hosted the ceremony and a hidden Borgo in the middle of Val d’Orcia, was chosen for the stay and the wedding party.

When we arrived at the Borgo, that morning, we smelt the excitement in the air. All the guests were staying there and while everyone was getting ready we breathed a festive air and could feel the real connection, bonding and closeness among all of them.

Sarah was surrounded by her bridesmaids all the time and assisted by her mum step by step. They were all together in the same room getting hair and makeup done to share also this special moment. The pastel colors palette chosen for flowers suits perfectly to the delicacy of these moments.
Paul was ready long before, and took his time to try and chill out with his friends playing pool. He and his best men were handsome with their blue suits and their pink ties and pocket squares. But nothing compares to their colored striped socks, such a nice touch!

When the ceremony time came, Vintage Buses were ready to bring the 70 guests to San Quirico d’Orcia, at Horti Leonini. While waiting, key parts were the parasols and the hats, essential details studied to let people enjoy the moments under the tuscan sun! The Bride arrived with an iconic Vintage Bentley. All eyes were on her!

The civil ceremony was held in the center of the characteristic radial design made of triangular flowerbed, under the statue of Cosimo III dei Medici.The ceremony attracted a lot of curious people but we all still felt the sense of something intimate, just because the only thing that mattered for everyone there was Sarah and Paul’ love. Bride and Groom offered an after ceremony drink to their guests and left San Quirico on their Bentley.

Back to the Borgo, with the vintage coaches, guests were ready for aperitif and dinner. One of the reasons why Sarah and Paul chose Tuscany for their wedding finally came out: it was time to taste the italian food and wine! And finally came out also other details: vintage bicycles and guest book corner, tableau de marriage and table decor in rustic chic style.

After dinner, time for a super wedding cake, for gelato and Cantucci, to bring a little bit of Tuscany also in the desserts! And, for sure, time for dancing to conclude an unforgettable wedding day with the stunning landscapes of Val d’Orcia in the background!

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Photography: M & J Photography | Event Planning: Super Tuscan Wedding Planners | Floral Design: Flowers Living | Wedding Dress: Ronald Joyce | Shoes: Rachel Simpson | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Packham | Catering: Preludio Catering | Vintage Car: Drive In Style | Venue: Borgo Di Castelvecchio | Groom Suit: Bespoke tailor Jasper Littman | Rentals: Preludio Noleggi | Vintage Coach: Drive In Style

Classic Summer Wedding in the City

I called Boston home for four years. It’s a city with an incredibly special place in my heart and when I see a wedding like this it brings my love for Boston rushing right back. Set at the Royal Sonesta Boston and featuring music by Night Shift Entertainment, it’s a summer celebration with no shortage of fun. See photos and film by THE EWINGS PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO below.

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From the Bride… We wanted the wedding to be classic, not too over-the-top, and fun. The most precious memories I took away from the wedding were the church ceremony where I couldn’t stop crying from overwhelming happiness, the trolley ride back to the hotel, dancing and laughing our way through pictures, and dancing along to Soho’s amazing music with family and friends. Luckily Erica took amazing pictures throughout the entire wedding, so I’ll never forget a single moment of the day.

Hung and I were most passionate about the band and florals. We saw Soho perform at a friends wedding and knew we wanted them to play at our wedding before we were even engaged. Once we got engaged, we contacted Soho first and based the wedding date on them. They were already booked up for some dates of Summer 2016 18 months in advance, so I was VERY happy we contacted them before planning other vendors. Once we had the date, we knew we wanted to get married in a church, so we chose the Old South Church because of it’s incredible beauty and great location. The Royal Sonesta was an easy choice because one of my best friends, Julie Bourque, sold weddings at the Sonesta and told me to come in just to take a peak to get an idea of what looking at reception spaces would be like. We pretty much decided on the Sonesta that day without looking at any other places to have the reception. It was perfect.

As for florals, we were recommended to Marc Hall by Julie. After one meeting with Jimmy Guzman from Marc Hall, we knew they were who we wanted do to the flowers for the wedding. We knew this was going to be where we put most of the money into and I’m so glad we did because the floral arrangements at the wedding were absolutely stunning and were even better than what I hoped they would be.

The trolley from the Old South Church back to the Sonesta was something I will never forget. Hung’s groomsmen brought a giant boombox with a microphone attached onto the trolley and cooler full of bud lights and we just partied all the way back to the Sonesta. We had music blasting and we were all taking turns singing into the microphone over loud dance music. Erica, our photographer, said she had never seen anything like it and was happy she was able to capture it in both photos and video. After pulling up to the Sonesta, one of the groomsmen held the boombox on his shoulder and we paraded through the Sonesta to the back outdoor area to take photos where we continued a dance session. We barely got any standing portraits on the wedding party because we all couldn’t stop dancing! It was one of the absolute best highlights of the wedding.

Hung and I were both at a mutual friends birthday party 4 years back. We didn’t speak that night, but we definitely both noticed each other. A few days later, we both happened to be at The Harp in Boston, pre-gaming for the Celtic’s game that we each had tickets for. He tapped me on the shoulder and said “I’m not sure if you know who I am but we were both at the same party the other night…” and handed my friends and me shots… Obviously his way to break the ice :) He finally asked for my number that night and after 1 low-key date during a snow blizzard the rest is history!


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Photography: THE EWINGS PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO | Videography: THE EWINGS PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO | Floral Design: MARC HALL DESIGNS | Wedding Dress: L'elite Boston | Ceremony Venue: Old South Church | Reception Venue: Royal Sonesta Boston | Bridesmaids' Dresses: J.Crew | Makeup: Natalie Shafie Makeup | Hair: C.E.L. Hair | Band: Night Shift Entertainment | Mens Attire: Men's Wearhouse | Transportation: Black Tie Limousine | Dance Floor: Rentals Unlimited | Transporation: Rockstar Limo

A Castle in the Netherlands Is Where Wedding Dreams Come True

With one watch of this film by Lovell Productions, Netherland has been added to my must-visit list pronto. It was the special site for this fairytale of a wedding between Ryan and Hella and it just may be the key to making all those dreams come true. From the sweet personal touches (the vows!) to the gorgeous views, it’s absolutely magical – enjoy!

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From Lovell ProductionsRyan and Hella’s destination wedding at Chateau Neercanne in the Netherlands felt like something out of a fairytale. From the baroque garden ceremony to the cave reception, every moment of the day seemed both intimate and grandiose at the same time and it was truly an unforgettable celebration.

Ryan and Hella both met and currently reside in Virginia. A few months after Ryan proposed to Hella at the Palace of Versailles, Hella suggested the idea of getting married in a castle somewhere in Europe. Hella is from Belgium so the idea sounded only somewhat crazy to Ryan. Realizing how special it would be, they both agreed to do the wedding at Chateau Neercanne, a castle built in the late 17th century on the Dutch and Belgian border. Being that Hella’s father is Dutch and her mother is Belgian, this seemed to be the perfect location.

When they told us they were getting married in the Netherlands, we knew it was going to be a remarkable event. The ceremony was officiated in both English and Dutch by their longtime family friend Floor in the stunning lower gardens, incorporating personal promises that, knowing Ryan and Hella, would surely involve food, animals, and the Baltimore Orioles. During dinner, Hella’s dad sang songs from her childhood and gifted them with traditional Dutch wooden clogs that they were immediately tasked to dance in. Following dinner, when guests weren’t roaming the wine cellar or sneaking off to Belgium (or of course snacking on frites), they were dancing for hours in the limestone caves that were transformed into a club for the reception. Of all the special moments from the day, Ryan and Hella told me that their favorite moment was shortly after the ceremony, when they stood up on the steps to greet everyone and saw just how many of their friends and family that had traveled so far to share in their special day.

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Photography: Ruud C Fotografie | Cinematography: Lovell Productions | Event Planning: Fabuloes Weddings | Floral Design: De Rozengaard | DJ: Artistic Productions | Beauty: Chante Cutter

A Fashion Blogger’s Unique Southern Wedding

It’s no surprise that when bloggers become brides it results in some of the coolest weddings you’ll ever come across. Just take Laura Leigh, the fashion and lifestyle blogger behind Louella Reese who wed her love, Joshua in a day that mixes whimsy with Southern tradition. From her green plaid heels to the bridesmaids in a floral print, there are so many ideas you’ll want to steal for yourself. Grab a peek in the gallery by Faith Teasley.

From the Bride… I am so thrilled to share all of the details of our wedding day. It’s been just about two months since we said “I do” and the day was truly everything we could have dreamt of. Every day I am filled with more love and excitement to have the man of my dreams standing next to me. And to have made that commitment in front of our family and closest friends.

Our wedding celebration was themed rustic romance. This theme fit my fiancé and me perfectly. While also being the image I dreamt of while imaging our big day. I could see myself covered in lace, candles everywhere, and being surrounded by ivory flowers with greenery complementing everything perfectly. Joshua and I spent the first two or three weeks of our engagement searching for a venue to match our personalities and my dream. On our third visit, The Arbors, we drove down a gravel road with trees lining both sides and a beautiful blue sky above. I instantly knew this was the spot. Just as an overwhelming feeling came over me when I knew Joshua was the one. There was no doubt in mind this was the place where we’d become one. This special place is a tree farm in Cleveland, NC about an hour from our new home. Upon driving into The Arbors you are surrounded by beautiful trees of all kinds. They have two sites on property to choose from. Both a beautiful mix of stone and wood. Creating a rustic mountain feel. Now all we needed to do was add some romantic touches.

Moving towards our wedding, Joshua and I really dove into planning. We wanted our day to truly reflect our personalities, our love for God and our love for one another. Going with our rustic romance theme we set the tone with green, ivory, and gold accents. Which also happen to be the colors of our alma matter, where we first met. We incorporated a lot of wood accents to touch on the rustic part of our theme. All of our signs were custom made by one of my very talented bridesmaids.
Planning our wedding was incredibly special to both Joshua and I. I really enjoyed finding items and different ways to showcase our personalities and relationship.

Some of my favorite items included the custom signs made by sweet friend, the photo(s) of Joshua and I that flanked the greenery-filled fireplace, and our wedding day looks. My dress was everything I had ever dreamt of and so much more. I worked with Modern Trousseau’s to custom make my dream. I knew from the beginning I wanted lace and I wanted sleeves. When visiting Hayden Olivia in Charlotte there were not a ton of options that included this. Lucky for me, my bridal consultant suggested a bolero. I instantly fell in love with the first dress I tried on but it did not include the sleeves I had dreamt of. Once that bolero was placed over top though, I knew it was it. Tears filled me eyes and I imagined Joshua seeing me wearing this masterpiece as I walked down to meet him. Joshua’s look was one we had fun deciding. We wanted it to reflect his fun personality while also matching perfectly with my classic romantic dress. We choose a simple gray suit and played around with the bowtie and shirt. Plaid for the shirt and a custom-made stripe bow-tie from The Knotty.

The weekend before our wedding North Carolina was hit with a very strong hurricane. With day upon day of rain. Once the hurricane passed we were left with gorgeous weather. All blue skies and a perfect 75 degrees. We were blessed! This weather was the exact reason we choose October. Also because that is when we started dating and became engaged. The bridesmaids and I started getting ready very early at a lake house rented by my mother. Getting your hair done while watching the sun come up over a lake is quite the way to start your wedding day! I believe this played a big part in keeping me calm.

I surprised my bridesmaids with pajama sets from Piyama. The pattern complemented our colors and looked adorable while getting ready together. The bridesmaids had the option of two dresses from ASOS in the same pattern. One a maxi dress with ruffles and the other a simple empire midi. I couldn’t have imagined the dresses fitting our venue better!

Once each gal had their hair and make-up complete we made our way to the venue. We then spent the next hour opening gifts, chatting, and sipping mimosas. My photographer then came in and said it was time to put my dress on. I truly did not feel like a bride until that moment. Once my maid of honor placed my veil and flower crown on it was time for the gals to leave. So there I was standing in front of the floor length mirror, looking at myself. At this moment I was overcome with emotion. Imagining Joshua seeing me and knowing I would be walking down to him in just minutes. That this is what I would look like as I made the promise to love him forever and stand by his side through everything. I wanted down that aisle!

I could see Joshua well before he could see me. I had butterflies in my stomach and my heart was beating faster than ever. I soaked in my soon to be husband standing there, waiting to turn around (once) he received the signal to. All I could think about was looking into his eyes and seeing him see me. I may have pulled my dad down the aisle trying to get to Joshua! Our ceremony was full of special moments including our favorite worship songs, a moment where Joshua and I stepped off to the side to pray together, and reciting our personal vows.

Once our ceremony was complete our guests were treated to a cocktail hour on the market lit patio of our reception venue. We served a variety of appetizers that were personal favorites of ours while a bluegrass band filled the air with sweet southern music. Additionally, we had a lawn game area with dice and bocce ball from Mark & Graham plus a custom cornhole set. We wanted cocktail hour to be a time to mix and mingle while enjoying the beautiful fall weather.

From cocktail hour to the reception. Our reception was filled with dahlias, anemones, garden roses, eucalyptus, and endless candles. We had a wooden guest “book” for guests to sign as they entered into the ceremony. Past the guest book was our cake table which was flanked with two cakes. Joshua wanted a traditional tiered cake covered in icing while I wanted a naked cake, we compromised and had both! Our cakes and the table may have been one of my favorites at the reception! Brandi from Honey Butter Bakery did amazing! Joshua and I had a sweetheart table set right in front of the candle filled fireplace. Sitting there allowed us time together and time to soak in everything going on around us. The evening was filled with all of the traditional wedding activities and lots of dancing! Joshua and I exited the wedding with friends and family flanking both sides of the sidewalk as we made our way to our limo. Having the opportunity to hug our loved ones as we left was one of my favorite moments of the evening. Our wedding was filled with so much love and I know our marriage will be the same!

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Photography: Faith Teasley Photography | Coordinator: Whitehead Manor Conference Center | Floral Design: Lily Greenthumb's Wedding & Event Design | Wedding Dress: Modern Trousseau | Cake: Honey Butter Bakery | Invitations: Minted | Rings: Diamonds Direct | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Asos | Catering: Queen City Catering | Band: Juniper String Ensemble | Ceremony & Reception : The Arbors Events | Dress Boutique: Modern Trousseau Charleston | Film Processing: Indie Film Lab | Hair & Make-Up: Sweet Magnolia Beauties | Lawn Games : Mark & Graham | Save the Dates: Minted

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A Real Bride Inspired By Grace Kelly

When Grace Kelly serves as the point of inspiration, you get a timeless bridal style with no shortage of sophistication. That was certainly the case for this bride who designed her own wedding gown, sourcing Chantilly lace from France and working directly with her dressmaker throughout the 10-month process. The result? A dress that truly set the scene for an incredible day planned by Twine Events. See all the photos by Brancoprata plus clip below by Robert Michael Films.

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From the Bride…

What did you envision your wedding being prior to planning?

We had a memorable engagement in Paris with my family and soon after, the two of us celebrated with a spontaneous getaway to the Italian coast. Everything about that trip felt like a dream. We knew we wanted to incorporate a very romantic European touch with each detail.

What was your color palette and your style vision?

I always love muted, neutral hues like cream, taupe, sand and pale blush. The palette is so effortless and there’s a softness and elegance to it. I wanted to keep everything classic with small hints of French-inspired decor like the blue bouquet blossom china we used for our tableware. While everyone dined outdoors during sunset, music by Edith Piaf played in the background. It felt like we were transported to another place in another era.

What unique elements or DIY details did you include?

Right after Jason proposed, we strolled along the Pont de l’Arcevêché where we wrote our locks and threw the key in the river. I will always remember the significance of that moment. After months of trying to find enough vintage locks, I had to get creative and settle for hand making guest escort cards for every couple. They were twined together with a small brass lock and key where they were displayed on a wrought iron gate to mimic the bridge. We also had a gentleman’s lounge / library where everyone enjoyed the cigars and whiskey tasting. I’ll give my husband credit for that one!

What was your favorite moment? Your favorite crafted detail?

Exchanging our personalized vows. Although I was a crying mess and we stood in front of a lot of people, the moment was so quiet and genuine that it was as if we were the only two there. My favorite crafted detail would have to be the collaborative work between my girlfriend, Heather from The Pointed Pen, who helped me design my formal invitations, and my brother who hand watercolored the artwork of the villa on the front face of the invite. It was all made with love.

Tell us about your flowers, your gown, your cake, etc.

The grounds already had aligned Italian Cypress trees, a side garden of rose bushes and the 1920’s villa was built with so much character that we didn’t need to overdo it with flowers. Our florist, Of The Flowers, did an amazing job highlighting areas to accentuate the natural beauty.

I designed my wedding gown with my dressmaker, Lucille (who I refer her as my ‘fairy godmother’). Grace Kelly was my wedding style muse. I envisioned the style and silhouette to be timeless and classic. We sourced the Chantilly lace from France and the top bodice was all hand sewn. It was such a fun and meaningful process for me that took nearly 10 months. Hopefully one day, I can pass it down to my daughter.

We opted out a cake and chose a dessert bar. We preferred to have many options of bite size sweets!

What is one piece of advice that you could give brides-to-be?

The same advice I was given: On the day of your wedding, take a moment. Sit in silence, be observant and reciprocate the gratitude and joy to everyone who is there to celebrate your special day. It all goes by so quickly.

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Photography: Brancoprata | Videography: Robert Michael Films | Event Planning: Twine Events | Floral Design: Of The Flowers | Wedding Dress: Custom | DJ: Dart Collective | Officiant: Rev. John Moore | Venue: Villa Del Sol D'Oro | Deserts: Fantasy Frostings | Film Lab: Carmencita Film Lab | Rentals: Archive Rentals | Rentals : Dish Wish | Strings: Angelica Strings

5 Tips for the Most Amazing Bridal Suite Ever

With all of the craziness surrounding your Big Day, it’s easy to let a few things fall to the wayside. It happens. But forgetting to prep your bridal suite? Sooo not an option. So today we’re teaming up with our friends over at Wayfair Registry for a list of tips + tricks on making your morning-of the best (and most photogenic) experience possible. Scroll below to take your bridal suite to the next level.

Light, light, light… and more light!

Being trapped in a small, dingy room isn’t exactly the ideal way to spend the morning of your wedding, and let’s be honest… it’s not a great option for your photographer, either. Which is why we say the more light, the better – which means picking a locale that has a lot of space AND windows. Trust us on this one… the natural light shining in will show off all of the beautiful deets, including those totally chic champagne glasses you picked up from Wayfair Registry, perfect for mimosas with your besties.

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Keep Those Must-Haves Within Reach

Those marathon pampering sessions can be tiring, so staying hydrated and nutrient-filled is a definite YES. We recommend stocking up on all of the essentials from Wayfair Registry (water pitchers, cheese boards, serving trays, ice buckets) to keep the tasty treats + liquids flowing AND displayed in a way that will look oh-so-cute for all of those “getting ready” photos. Plus, don’t forget the little details, like earrings, perfume, that perfect shade of lip gloss and sandals for dancing the night away post-nuptials. You’ll most definitely want them all to make an appearance in your bridal suite photo ops. Trust us.

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Find the Perfect Spot for Your Dress

You’re wedding day is all about you + your love, but that dress of your dreams? It deserves a moment. Start by finding a sweet space in your bridal suite where your masterpiece can shine, then sit back and watch your photog capture all of the magic. Oh, and don’t forget to de-clutter your space as much as possible, i.e., clearing out those coffee mugs, phone books and maps of your venue sitting in the background. Don’t make your gown compete for the limelight… it needs a space all its own.

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Don’t Forget the Pretty, Pretty Details

Your wedding day will be, hands down, the most romantic + pretty day of your life, and it all starts in the bridal suite. So our advice? Make sure it’s as gorgeous as it can possibly be. Show off those bouquets (or order a special floral arrangement) in a beautiful vase from Wayfair Registry, set up some snacks on a beautiful serving tray and lounge around with your besties in the prettiest robes possible. You’ll be so happy you glammed up the occasion when you are perusing through those photo albums.

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Have fun!

The stress of planning is finally over, and now that it’s officially the day you say “I do” to the one you love, it’s time to kick back in that comfy slippers from Wayfair Registry and r-e-l-a-x. Which means tall glasses of champagne, your wedding day playlist streaming from that awesome docking station and a whole lot of laughter with your best friends. Because the best accessory for your bridal suite? Your smile.

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With a never-ending lineup of products for your home AND those pre-wedding festivities, Wayfair Registry is your destination for everything you’ll ever need… and beyond. Think 7 million products in everything from kitchen, bath, bed, patio, garden and living, plus free shipping, white glove delivery for those larger items, a 90-day return policy AND a 10% completion offer. It’s basically the definition of awesome… and your go-to locale for those bridal suite must-haves. Head there now to start preparing for the morning-of, and don’t forget to check out our very own curated list of loves.

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Photography: Rebecca Yale Photography

Wayfair Registry Must-Haves: 1. Daphne Flute Glass by Fitz and Floyd 2. Personalized Terry Bathrobe by Linum Home Textiles 3. Chambord 8 Cup Coffee Maker by Bodum 4. Heritage 15″ Round Wooden Chop and Serve Board by Denby 5. iPod/iPhone Docking Clock Radio by iessentials 6. Thyme Round Bamboo Tray with Edge by Mint Pantry 7. Henrietta Ceramic Water Pitcher by Bloomingville 8. Americano 5 Quart Ice Bucket with Side Handle in Polished Chrome by Kraftware 9. European Recycled Glass Brasserie Bottle Vase by Napa Home & Garden

 

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How to Choose an Iconic Wedding Gown with BHLDN

Take a trip through the world’s most celebrated weddings and there’s one thing that always stands out: the gown. Princess Kate. Grace Kelly. Amal Clooney. Those ladies knew how to rock an enduring classic that people are still talking about. So how do you choose a dress that is just as timeless? Our friends at BHLDN are here to help. Scroll for tips on selecting that iconic dream gown.

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So what exactly makes a wedding gown iconic? Style. From the detailing to the fab color choices to the silhouettes that fit your body just so, it all comes together to create a moment that will stand the test of time… and then some. And with BHLDN’s newest collection of drop-dead gorgeous wedding gowns, bridesmaid styles, Mother of the Bride + reception dresses AND accessories, making that statement has never been easier… or more stylish. Think you + the dress of your dreams strutting down the aisle to the one you love in a look that is just as stunning as the one your fave celebrity wore. We are sooo on board.

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Truth be told, we’ve seen a lot of breathtaking gowns in our day, but when it comes down to picking favorites, we can’t help but remember some of those iconic gowns of years past. Lucky for us (and you) BHLDN’s newest collection features breathtaking styles that will give you that look and feel you’ve been drooling over. From the minimalistic + oh-so-chic Heather Gown (which seriously reminds us of Solange Knowles’ stunner) to the romantic with a twist Eira Gown (for those of you drooling over Amal Clooney) to the classic look of the Rhea Bodysuit (hello, Kate Middleton) to the boho luxe Kai Gown (which would totally make Kate Moss jealous).

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From the seriously breathtaking details to the silky soft fabrics to the styles that will leave all of your guests talking, BHLDN’s newest collection is everything you’ve ever wanted… for you AND your bridal party. Head there now to peruse all of the beautiful options and check out the giveaway below for a little something extra special.

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What: BHLDN is giving away a stunning Arboreta Bracelet! (Value $289)

Who: One lucky winner, chosen completely at random, will be chosen on

How: To enter, simply leave a comment below telling us which BHLDN style is your favorite! (Ex: I love, love, love the Kai Gown!).

When: The winner will be announced right here on SMP on 1/13!

For Terms & Conditions: Click here. Good luck!

Winter Wedding Lovers, This One Is For You.

Admittedly, I am a summer wedding lover—but one look at this bit of cold weather beauty from Belle GardensGreenwood Events and Orange Photographie and I’m ready to trade sand for snow when it comes to saying I do. From the piercingly beautiful gem to the ribbon-wrapped cake, you can find me cozying up to every inch in The Vault.

From Belle GardensI had the privilege a few weeks ago to sit under the instruction of some very dear friends Samantha and Reid, of Orange Photographie in Bozeman, Montana. Not only did they share with me a love for film but they set me in a direction of never going back to digital. These images are as a result of a shoot they designed and put together just for me. I have longed to shoot in the beauty of my hometown Montana, and especially covering the most important day in a beloved couples lives. I have named this shoot, Loves Snow White Rose.

Through the veil of the cool mist
my eyes met yours and made a tryst
a promise that our hearts will blend
and our love shall last till the end
over the hills you disappear
and in my dreams reappear
O my delicate snow white rose
ensconced in my poems and prose
O my delicate snow white rose
emanates from my heart a cadence
that resonates with your heavenly fragrance
All the barriers I shall break
My life I shall put on stake
Until I merge with you one day
To be with you forever I pray
From my life please don’t vanish
let our love never diminish
petals of your love I shall always cherish
O my delicate snow white rose

Our models John and Ingrid are a real married couple and we shot the their portraits on the river where John proposed to Ingrid. I adore the words of the poet, John, as he parallels the snow white rose to the love of his life., Ingrid. Montana a vast state with cold winters but a beauty that cannot be denied could also be that snow white rose, a longing to be in her resident once again. Nonetheless, the poet speaks of deep love for its subject.

The first portion of our shoot we captured Ingrid preparing to meet her love John in a beautiful robe and veil from A Girl With A Serious Dream. Our lovely engagement ring was also a feature from Susie Saltzman, and stunning it is. We then captured romantic details of a stunning table in blues, rosy mauves, creams, whites, and grays. These colors only seem fitting because of the snow covered landscape. While we were shooting the snow came down in huge flakes as it so often does in Montana in the spring, only to melt away after a couple of hours. We were then off to the river where the formals were shot, where John originally proposed. The rose has come full circle and life has been burst forth from these two sharing each other’s love and life forever!

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Photography: Romancing Belle Photography By Pam Terpstra | Floral Design: Greenwood Events | Cake: Elles Belles Bakery | Hair + Makeup: Ethereal Hair & Makeup Artistry | Bridal Robe + Veil: Girl & A Serious Dream | Dress Designer: Sarah Janks | Film Lab: The Find Lab | Gown Boutique: Bash Bozeman | Paper Goods: Cast Calligraphy | Rentals: The Top | Ribbon + Table Runner: Tono Co | Stylist + Planner: Orange Photographie | Susie Saltzman: Susie Saltzman

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
Why a One-Year Anniversary Session is Always a Good Idea

There’s no doubt that I’m a full supporter of documenting life’s milestones—especially those based around love. I wouldn’t be worthy of the wedding blogger title without that notion. And for me? That includes the 1-year anniversary. Enter this Chicago sesh from Elizabeth Nord, who captured her very own sister’s anni. Complete with city scenes and love in the street, you can find it all in The Vault.

From Elizabeth Nord… After months of planning to visit the city, Lauren and Adam decided to celebrate their first year wedding anniversary with a photo session in the heart of downtown with me, her older sister. We chose two iconic photo spots for their session: the Lasalle bridge and in front of the Chicago Board of Trade building. They dated for 2 years prior to getting married and were married on our parent’s 30-acre property in West Tennessee. It’s been a joy to watch these two as they dated and as their marriage continues to grow. They are the perfect match and I’m so happy my sister has found her forever love.

From Lauren… In the year that we’ve been married, we’ve already learned so much about growing a marriage together. The best piece of advice that I could share with other newlywed couples is to make time for one another. It’s important to continue to date your spouse as you did before you were married. If you’re able to do it, I would suggest a date night a week. If not, a special date night each month is lovely! Continue to show each other how much the other means to you by little gestures throughout the day. Husbands, text your wife to tell her how much you love her or surprise her with flowers randomly. Wives, offer to give him a back rub or tell him how proud you are of him. Those kinds of gestures make such a difference!

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Photography: Elizabeth Nord Photography | Black Dress: Lord & Taylor

A Wedding at American’s First Organic Farm

When Andrew and Lina got engaged, there was no question where they’d tie the knot. The Rodale Organic Family Farm, Andrew’s family estate, was the ultimate backdrop for their summer wedding and they knew just how to dress up the details, giving their rustic celebration a modern spin. With incredible vendors like Cobblestone CateringJackie Schneider Beauty and Rebecca Yale Photography in the mix, every aspect of their big day was something special. More to see this way!

Andrew and Lina met at an advertising agency in 2011 where they both worked. They both still work in the advertising industry, Andrew on the technology side, and Lina on the planning and buying side.

They were married on Andrew’s family estate, The Rodale Organic Family Farm, a truly picturesque spot that has been the venue for many of Andrew’s family members nuptials. The Rodale family were pioneers in organic farming, and the family farm was the first organic farm in America, which is not far from the Rodale Institute, which continues to be at the forefront of organic farming practices. Guests were welcomed to the farm with gift bags featuring organic snacks and beverages along with copies of Women’s and Men’s Health Magazine, publications produced by the Rodale family. In keeping with the spirit of the farm, guests were each given a succulent to take home as a wedding favor.

Mark Kintzel, whose known the groom since he was a baby, designed the day with bright summer florals to compliment the beautiful farm setting with pops of pink, red, yellow and orange, which also carried through to the bridesmaids’ dresses and the bride’s shoes. Instead of a traditional photo booth, Mark decked out the groom’s great grandfather’s VW convertible with flowers and vintage suitcases, making for a fun and personal backdrop. Guests were given a copy of their photos to keep and another strip to paste in the guestbook. The bride and groom had a custom snapchat geo tag made for their guests to use during the wedding and collected all the snaps as a digital guestbook as well.

The farm is still a working farm, but the greenhouse was decommissioned and the glass removed to prevent snow cave-ins during the winter, which made for the perfect spot for cocktail hour. Cocktail hour took place in both the greenhouse and the sculpture garden next door and guests enjoyed 3 signature cocktails and oysters while Andrew’s uncle played the accordion. Andrew and Lina share a love of travel and food- he proposed on a hilltop in Greece- and come from diverse backgrounds, which they wanted to showcase throughout. The reception took place in a sailcloth tent and the dinner was a blend of cuisines from all of their travels (Italian, Spanish, Greek, Dominican and Lebanese) and was served family style to bring everyone together for the special occasion.

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Photography: Rebecca Yale Photography | Event Planning : Mark Kintzel Design | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Cake: Katherine Sprules Cakes | Invitations: Fourteen-Forty | Bride's Shoes: Stuart Weitzmen | Rings: Cartier | Bridesmaids' Dresses: J.Crew | Catering: Cobblestone Catering | Hair + Makeup: JACKIE SCHNEIDER BEAUTY | Groom's Attire: Michael Andrews Bespoke | Groomsmen Suits: Bonobos | Photo Booth: Big Laughs Photo Booth

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
For membership information, click here
These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
Swedish Style Meets New England Charm for this Seaside Wedding

What do you get when you combine your future hubby’s heritage with the natural beauty of your seaside wedding venue? One unique, uber special celebration that guests won’t forget anytime soon. Infusing a Swedish style with their New England locale and flavor, these two were surrounded by everything and everyone they love – and Allegra Anderson captured it all. More in our Vault right here!

From the Bride… My now husband Dave is Swedish and ever since the first time I went to visit his family in his coastal hometown of Särö, Sweden, I have been in awe of all the natural and effortless beauty that Sweden has to offer and of Swedes in general. They are all so beautiful. Seriously. I can’t complain though because I grew up in a small New England coastal town called Rockport, MA which also rivals in seaside charm and beauty. Naturally with us both growing up in similar settings but thousands of miles apart we knew we wanted a seaside wedding and to really show our roots, and who we are as a couple. We wanted: 1. To get married on the beach (our favorite place to be) 2. To blend the two different cultures into our wedding, and 3. To have a non-cookie cutter wedding – we really wanted to infuse the charming New England laid back vibe with the beauty and romance of Sweden, so that our friends from both sides of the Atlantic could get a taste of each other’s culture.

This is when we found the Manchester Bath and Tennis Club in Manchester, MA which has its own private beach (turns out not easy to find in New England) to say our vows on, followed by a fantastic dinner and dancing on their porch and great hall overlooking the beach and the ocean. We decided what better way to introduce the Swedes to New England charm and style than by having a classy, fun clambake complete with bibs (lobsters are a REAL treat in Sweden). To capture the romantic Swedish beauty, I wanted my girls to be in blue floral flowy dresses since blue floral is a classic china pattern in Sweden and I found the perfect dresses for the occasion on reddressboutique.com for $90 each (did not want them spending $300+ for a dress they would wear once)! In Sweden flower crowns are very common and classic in weddings (and especially during Midsummer) so I wore a floral-like crown and to have my two Maid of Honors stand out, my mom made them these wonderful flower crowns to match their dresses. It was the perfect combination of Swedish and beachy.

To go with the effortless beauty look, our florist did a wonderful job of putting together our bouquets and table flowers. They looked like they were all cut from someone’s beautiful garden that morning and thrown together but they just so happened to be arranged perfectly. Our florist Sage Studio even added some herbs to our boutique to give it texture like rosemary and mint. They were absolutely stunning. We also put two candles on each table as part of the center pieces to add to the romance and simplicity.

A few other nods we had to the Swedish culture was that Dave’s dad read a beautiful poem about love in Swedish during our ceremony so that everyone could hear Dave’s native language. Also, our groomsmen and dads wore their nationality flag socks. Dave wore one Swedish flag sock and one American sock as a symbol of combining the two families. My dad wore one Union Jack sock and one American sock as a nod to our family’s British roots (my dad was born and grew up in England). My sister also carried the rings in a silver cigar box that my grandfather was gifted from the King of Siam during his visit to England in which my grandfather at the time was the head of his security detail at the Palace.

One of the most fun things we did was we imported Aquavit (which we could not find it in the US or at least not in MA). It is Swedish schnapps that is specifically used for celebrations in Sweden. I had my first taste of this at Midsummer in Sweden a few years back and thought we had to share it with everyone. We had a couple of our Swedish groomsmen hand out the bottles and shot glasses to the guests and told everyone to wait for our signal. As tradition goes, halfway through dinner, Dave stood up and gave a short explanation of what usually happens at a Swedish party. Then all of the Swedes stood up and started signing a popular Swedish drinking song which ends with taking the shot. This happened a few more times throughout dinner, as the tradition goes. Everyone LOVED it!

Our friends then surprised us with one more Swedish tradition that was a shocker! When the groom gets up to go to the bathroom all the men get up and kiss the bride on the cheek. This was unexpected and really fun I must say.

Lastly, we just had some small Swedish and N.E. nautical touches throughout the wedding which was really fun and we felt blended two cultures we love together really well. We also had our favorite desserts: cupcakes (my favorite) and an ice cream bar complete with Swedish fish as a topping (Dave’s favorite). It was a perfect day in every way for us and we really felt the day represented who we are as a couple and our cultures. Our amazing photographer Allegra Anderson captured it beautifully and all of our vendors were wonderful to work with and went above and beyond for us- we really were on cloud nine.


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Photography: Allegra Anderson Photography | Floral Design: Sage Floral Studio | Cupcakes: Cakes for Occasions | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Red Dress Boutique | Catering: Chrissi's Cafe & Fish Market | Hair: Jennifer Elizabeth Weddings | Wedding Venue: Manchester Bath & Tennis Club | Bridal Boutique: Ceremony | Bride's Makeup Artist: Makeup By MollyG | Rings + Earrings: Hearts On Fire | Wedding Party Makeup Artist: Makeup Artistry, Inc.

Bright Blooms Prove Indoor Bashes Don’t Need to be Boring

Just because pictures need to be moved inside doesn’t mean you’re destined for boring and blah memories. Quite the opposite in fact. With a bright white backdrop, the Bride, the star of the show after all, shines with all her colorful blooms – courtesy of Laura’s Floras. Samantha Kirk captured it all and we’re giving indoor celebrations a lot more love thanks to her pics right this way!

From Samantha KirkThis session was pretty much based around the weather. What usually happens on a wedding day? Nothing really goes right and sometimes the weather changes, and well, that’s what happened in this case. We wanted to bring the shoot indoors and show an inspirational bridal shoot for a bride who happens to have her whole day need to be reorganized from the weather.

From Laura’s FlorasWhen you give a florist a blank slate, what is she going to do? Go bold and colorful! The bold florals for this shoot offer a wonderful contrast to the bright, white space. The beautiful yellow tree peonies inspired the palette. The peach and coral amaryllis and roses draw on the vibrant coral centers of the peonies and add to the warm sunset palette. The earthy foliage and beautiful olive green silk ribbons from Silk and Willow bring a sophistication to the otherwise vibrant color palette. Jasmine vine trailing off of the bouquet mirror the whimsical vine installation on the wall. You would never know from looking at this session that it was gloomy and rainy outside.

We want any bride to be inspired and see that you can still get beautiful images no matter the weather but indoors on your wedding day!

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Photography: Samantha Kirk Photography | Floral Design: Laura's Floras | Wedding Dress: JLM Couture, Inc | Makeup: Elona Chap | Venue: GoodWork HQ | Bridal Boutique: La Soie Bridal | Invitation Suite: Owl Post Calligraphy | Model: Christa Moreland | Veil: All About Romance

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
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Designer Secrets to a Beautifully Styled Bathroom

Your entryway styling game may be totally on point but chances are your bath is lacking in chic vignettes and beautiful accessories. This often forgotten space deserves a little style love too. With a few key components, your bathroom will be running with the best of them. Art, window treatments and accessories that pull double duty are part of the master plan. Tour a small but mighty bathroom re-do from Jessica McClendon along with pics by Mary Costa and grab her top tips for revamping your space!

The theme for this small bathroom remodel was balance! Both my client’s oldest son and guests use the bathroom, so it serves multiple purposes. We wanted its design to fit the overall design aesthetic of the rest of the home, but we wanted her son to feel comfortable and represented, too. I was tasked with finding the perfect balance between a highly functional and high-style design for this space. And with a quick, two-week turnaround, I had to be super thoughtful about my product selections, only using those that were in stock and ready to go!

When decorating powder rooms, I love to start with unique wallpaper, lighting and accessories. But with a shower in this small bathroom, I knew that moisture was going to be a real issue, meaning wallpaper was out of the question. Instead, I opted for tile in a chevron pattern to get the same “wallpaper” feel. It’s stylish, makes a statement, and is just masculine enough not to make my client’s son roll his eyes.

Next, we needed to address storage. The original design just had a pedestal sink, so I replaced it with a prefab vanity and medicine cabinet from Restoration Hardware. The vanity was a gift from the design gods as it addressed every need: in stock, fit our space, gave us storage, and was high style. I love that it has a light industrial feel with a masculine vibe, but also flows with the East Coast architecture of the home and my client’s playful style. To add a bit of color, we hung beach themed prints from Minted in whitewashed frames, and they were the perfect pop. We finished off the space with fresh flowers, a necessity for every space, and I’m happy to report that the bathroom was finished just in time for her arriving guests. 

Designer Tips for Styling a Bathroom

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If there’s a window, add a window treatment. I love using tailored roman shades in the bathroom. They feel simple and clean, but add texture to an otherwise sterile and hard-surfaced environment. The shade and trim I used in this bathroom is actually made from outdoor fabric, which is ideal as it’s resistant to moisture.

Opt for functional accessories like trays, candles and canisters. Trays help to keep things visually tidy. Display one on a vanity with ample counter space, or on the back of the toilet for smaller bathrooms and powder rooms. Candles are pretty and, well…always appreciated in a bathroom! Canisters a great way to add style and personality while making bath necessities, such as cotton balls and Q-tips, easy to get to on a daily basis.

For instant texture and interest, think art. With great affordable art resources like Minted and Society6, it’s easy to bring something unique to the space without breaking the bank. Just remember not to hang anything too precious in bathrooms with a shower. The moisture will eventually take its toll.

Add something unexpected. This is universal tip to keep in mind when decorating any room, including the bathroom! It can be anything. Just get creative! In the past I’ve used a brass peace sign and a bowl of antique keys in my designs. In this bathroom, the vintage clock adds a unique element.

Start with a neutral base. 80% of the time I will choose neutral color finishes for tile and will bring color into the space through the paint, wallpaper, art and towels. I do this to add longevity to the bathroom, and because remodeling a bathroom is expensive!

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The Prettiest Bathrooms Ever
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The Prettiest Bathrooms Ever
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Photography: Mary Costa Photography | Interior Design: Jessica McClendon

Follow Whitney Bischoff’s Wedding Journey!

You first met “Whitney B” on Chris Soules’ season of The Bachelor, but Whitney’s love story didn’t end there. She went on to find her forever love post-reality TV and isn’t looking back. As the newest addition to our Blogger Bride crew, Whitney is embarking on her wedding planning journey sharing her favorite moments right here on Style Me Pretty! With Always Yours Events by her side, you can expect a whole lot of fun ahead as Whitney takes on the role of bride-to-be.

From Whitney… Hello SMP Brides! I am so excited that not only am I engaged but that I have the opportunity to share my wedding and planning with you over the next year. This is such an honor! I’ll be sharing it all: the good times and the stressful times, from beginning to end. And I’m sure I will have questions for you along the way too! Since this is the beginning, I want to introduce myself to those of you who might not know me, and re-introduce myself to those who haven’t seen me in a while!

Some of you may remember me from a little show called “The Bachelor” I appeared on a couple years ago where I got engaged on national television, only to call off the engagement a short six months later- yikes! Boy, was that a whirlwind. I am frequently asked, “Was it real” and “Are you happy you did it?” Yes, it was real to the extent any reality TV show can be and yes, I’m glad I did it, but… I’m one million times happier now that it’s over. While it might sound cliché, I did truly go on the show to find love – weird, right? It wasn’t for the fame, not for endorsements or money, not to launch my career, or to gain social media followers, but truly for L-O-V-E. Shortly after the show and my relationship ended, I went back to my normal life. Back to Chicago and to my career as a fertility nurse. And wouldn’t you know, that is where I found it. Found the thing I had been longing for…I found him, the one, my love, my Ricky.

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“Wouldn’t you know, that is where I found it.

Found the thing I had been longing for…

I found him, the one, my love, my Ricky.”

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I wish I had some fairytale way that we met, like in Whole Foods or at the gym, but I don’t frequent either. I resorted to what any other girl would do in this situation and downloaded the dating app, “Bumble.” Within the first couple weeks of signing up, I see “Ricky, 29, Chicago, Regional Sales Manager.” I immediately thought, “This could be my own Michael Scott.”

Indeed I swiped right and not too long after, I got the notification that we had matched. If you are unfamiliar with Bumble, once a “match” is formed, the woman has 24 hours to make contact with the guy until the match vanishes. Although I like the idea of having the upper hand, and I’m very rarely at a loss for words, ladies, let me tell ya, it is stressful to have this pressure on you! Who would have thought that something like this would cause me such anxiety?! Well, somehow, someway, I found the courage to reach out and soon after I realized that this guy was something special. Within days I texted my friend, “I think I met the guy I’m going to marry, although I’ve actually never met him”

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“I think I met the guy I’m going to marry,

although I’ve actually never met him.”

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About a week or so later, I got to lay eyes on my future husband for the first time, 9/24/15…I’ll never forget it! That night I experienced my last first kiss, more laughs than I had laughed in months, a few butterflies, but most importantly, I got to be myself; no façade, or image I felt I had to keep up with, truly just me- flaws and all; I’ve never felt more free. Before I knew it, days turned into weeks, weeks to months; and those months continued to build until our time together became the foundation to our very strong relationship. Not only our relationship but the relationship we had with one another’s families.

With that being said, it was not uncommon that on 7/15/16, Ricky’s sister reached out and asked if I wanted to have a girls night with she and her mom since Ricky would be traveling for business with his dad. I love girls nights- I was in! Ricky’s parents had recently relocated to downtown Chicago, so the plan was to meet there for some wine before we headed out to a nice dinner in the city. When I arrived to the condo, I opened the door to see candles everywhere! My first thought was “Wow, they really planned an interesting girls night!” HA! I never imagined this would be THE night; the night I was going to become the future Mrs. Angel. But as the door shut behind me, I heard the most comforting voice of a guy who was supposed to be in Philadelphia. To say that I was stunned is a complete understatement.

I wish I could remember every word that he said and commit it to memory, but we were both so excited that neither of us remember! What I do know is that in that moment I was the happiest I had ever been. My only wish was that my friends and family, my team, my people, could have been there to enjoy this moment with us! Well, guess what? Ricky didn’t skip a beat.

When we walked into the room to see Ricky’s parents, I turned the corner to see the best cheering section any girl could wish for. As my eyes went from one person to the next, and the next, and the next, memories began flooding my head. Each of these people played a major role in the woman that I am today. These are the people that even in the darkest times, never wavered, and that day was no different. They traveled long distances, took time away from their jobs and children to be there on one of the most pivotal days in my life—so, to each of them…THANK YOU!

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“In that moment I was the 

happiest I had ever been.”

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And to my hubby-to-be, I’ve said it before, and I will say it a thousand more times, but thank you for being YOU and loving me for being ME! So this is where the next journey begins…my wedding planning journey. Again, I am so excited to share what I have in store for this celebration. I have worked diligently over the past several months to build the best team possible to execute the most unique and personal wedding possible! Please join me over the next year as I introduce you to each of them and explain how, as a team, we are putting together one amazing day!

xoxo, Whitney B (soon-to-be Whitney A)

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Photography: Carly Michelle Photography | Wedding Planning: Always Yours Events | Bride: Whitney Bischoff | Makeup Artistry: Gabrielle Raguso | Sunkissed Skin: Glo Airbrush Tan

Whitney Bischoff

Blogger Bride
Stunning Hindu Temple Engagement Session in Atlanta

To put it simply, these photographs took my breath away. Photographed by Elle Golden outside of Atlanta, you are instantly transported and the couple holding your hand is as beautiful as the surroundings. Click here to see the entire gorgeous gallery.

From Elle Golden PhotographyYou don’t have to travel all the way to India for stunning views of traditional Hindu temples. Tucked away in an Atlanta suburb is the BAPS Mandir temple where couple Nihar + Pratibha decided to hold part of their engagement session with Elle Golden Photography. The first half of the session was dedicated to their more casual, daily attire at Atlanta’s charming Summerour Studios. The second half was held at the temple and the couple wore traditional south Asian garments, including a floral saree in beautiful pink and gold tones.

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Photography: Elle Golden Photography | Ceremony Venue: Summerour Studio | Venue: BAPS Mandir

The Kind of Wedding You Look Back on and Still Love in 20 Years

This beautiful soiree embraces everything I wanted in my own big day… timeless, elegant and most importantly—one that my kids would look back on and not cringe. Planned and designed by Rebecca Chan Weddings & Events, this day transcends the trendy with it’s simple, effortless detailing. Julia Park‘s imagery will sure make for one beautiful album to flip through years from now. See more in The Vault!

From Rebecca Chan Weddings & EventsVictoria and Stephen’s day was all about soft romantic colours and effortless style. Their garden-inspired bouquets from Flower 597 were the perfect for their outdoor ceremony, while soft blooms in their centerpieces accented the tables (put together by the bride’s aunt). Complementing the venue’s old world elegance, we included gold vintage elements at the receiving table. To add an extra personal touch to the day, each table number featured a city that the couple had visited together, and a little dog trinket sprayed in gold let guests know of the donation that was made in lieu of favours to the humane society.

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Photography: Julia Park Photography And Cinema | Floral Design: Flower 597 | Cake: Cakelaine | Makeup: A Glow By Joan | Hair: Ladylyn Gool | Dress Boutique: Felichia Bridal | Planning: Rebecca Chan Weddings & Events | Reception and Ceremony venue: Graydon Hall Manor | Rentals: Southern Charm Vintage Rentals | Seating Chart: Bliss Paper Boutique | Signage: Love Lettering | Sutis: Tiger of Sweden from Got Style Menswear

A Classic Navy + Greenery-Filled Wedding

Meghan and Sean’s love story began in high-school but fast forward 10 years and you’ll see their long-awaited wedding day that was nothing short of perfect. They prioritized involving their 5-year-old daughter in the celebration, and she even hand-painted their table numbers made with love. Photographed by Ashley Caroline, this is one gallery you don’t want to miss.

From Ashley Caroline PhotographyMeghan + Sean’s day was very special. Together, they have the sweetest 5-year-old daughter, Molly. It was evident throughout the day that she is not only the light in their lives but in so many close family and friends as well. Molly painted the table “numbers” and was so excited to show everyone her adorable artwork. It was a lovely personal touch. The day was beautiful from the bride + groom table full of candles to the greenery covering the tables and the portraits at golden hour. The bride’s J. Crew dress stunned everyone. It was a lovely day with the best trolley ride and I couldn’t wait to share it with you. My favorite moment was towards the end of the night when the groom serenaded the bride. He sang a song and played on his guitar and it was the sweetest moment.

From the Bride… Sean and I met freshman year of high school in keyboarding class, and although we would both later admit to an immediate mutual crush, we didn’t start dating until the summer before our senior year of college. We had run into each other at a dive bar one random, fateful night; I was there with my sister, who had recently gone through a breakup and Sean had gotten dragged out of bed by a friend in search of love. Sean was wearing gym shorts and black mid-calf socks under sandals – I thought no one had ever looked better. I’ll never forget how happy I was to see him, a happiness I have felt seeing him thousands of times since. Sean swears that he was the first one to text after that night, and I’m certain that the opposite is true, but we both agree that the summer that followed was one of the best of our lives. After 7 years of friendship and 3 of dating, we entered into our next and greatest adventure: parenting. Molly was born on a warm, sunny day in the middle of September. She has Sean’s eyes, my smile and both of our love for laughter and music.

Our wedding day was also on a warm, sunny day in September, 5 years later. Our wish was to have a day that was just bursting at the seams with love, and I am very happy to say that that wish was granted. We got married in the church where my Father grew up, a church where we said goodbye to my Grandpa earlier this year. Being there as a family again, celebrating a birth of sorts, was a beautiful, emotional experience. We took our pictures in Bayard Cutting Arboretum, where my brother’s wedding pictures were taken, and then headed over to the reception in our trolley. The party was held at The Snapper Inn on the south shore of Long Island, in an open air gazebo overlooking the water. I will never forget the feeling of the breeze drifting in and out as we ate dinner at our candlelit table and looked around at 200 of our favorite people, wishing we could hold onto these treasured moments as they passed by relentlessly. Although there were many moments I loved, it is easy to say that the highlight of the night was listening to Sean play “This Must be the Place” by Talking Heads. He sings and plays so beautifully and it was a true moment in time, seeing him share that talent with the people we love.

While we were on our honeymoon in Italy I said to Sean that the greatest gift we could have given to our friends and family on our wedding is to have a night where they can forget about work or obligations and just simply celebrate love. The greatest gift to us was looking around at these wonderful people, people who have been there for many milestones in our lives, and seeing the pure joy they felt in being there, being present, and frankly, tearing UP the dance floor. We don’t get to experience joy that way on a daily basis and it is such a beautiful reminder of how much we need love and need each other. It was a bit difficult coming back to reality after a night like that, but to steal a line from our wedding song, “I guess we’ll just begin again.”

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Photography: Ashley Caroline Photography | Floral Design: Flowers by Burton | Wedding Dress: J.Crew | Cake: Audrey's Fine Baked Goods | Reception Venue: Snapper Inn | DJ + Live Music: Paul Loren | Flower Girl's Dress: J.Crew