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The Chicest Back-to-Work Office Supplies

I’m currently in the process of moving my workspace from my kitchen island to an actual dedicated office space in our renovated attic. Call it back-to-school motivation for adults, but there’s just something about this time of year that turns on go-mode. This year that meant rethinking where the creative thoughts happen and of course, stocking up on the sweetest supplies. Want to step up your office game this year too? Find the chicest supplies right this way!

The Chicest Back-to-Work Office Supplies
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The Chicest Back-to-Work Office Supplies
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Easiest DIY Gallery Wall for Your Office!

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The Brides Rocked Unique Rose Gold Wedding Gowns!

If you ask me, Debby and Laura are two of the most stylish brides ever. On the eve of their 20th anniversary, they married in front of their nearest and dearest, all of whom dressed in black and white while the brides stunned in rose gold gowns from Rent the Runway. A vendor dream team including Holly Heider Chapple, Lauryn Prattes, Georgetown Bride and Lisa Ziesing for Abby Jiu worked hard behind the scenes and all those pretty shades of pink were the perfect nod to Laura’s mother, a breast cancer survivor.

Debby and Laura met in Michigan (where they are both from) through a softball league. On April 18th, the eve of their 20th anniversary they decided to get married at DAR in Washington DC in front of 55 of their closest friends and family members. Each of their two sons walked them down the aisle and their dearest friend and neighbor officiated the wedding. Guests were requested to wear black and white, while the brides wore stunning Rose Gold gowns from Rent the Runway. Each held a delicate hand-tied bouquet created by Holly Chapple featuring blush garden roses, blush tulips, pink spray roses, ranunculus and pops of red sweet peas. 

The shades of pink were important to Laura and Debby as they were in honor of Laura’s mother, a recent Breast Cancer survivor. 

During cocktail hour guests sipped on Moscow Mules (Debby’s cocktail of choice) and Mint Juleps (Laura’s cocktail of choice). They were later given their copper mugs and mint julep cups as a keepsake from their friends’ wedding day. They listened to music and enjoyed the DC scenery of the nearby White House and Washington Monument. 

O’Byrne Gallery inside DAR served as the perfect space for an intimate dinner party. One dramatic, long table brought a sense of togetherness, as everyone dined at one table, instead of separately throughout the space. The table was covered in a white sequin linen, lucite Versaille chairs featured bold black and white stripe chair pads and place settings consisted of rose gold flatware. Against the black and white decor vibrant centerpieces in shades of pink with pops of red brought the room to life. Delicate butterflies balanced on the champagne flutes, serving as place cards for each guest to find their seat. 

After dinner, guests danced the night away on the Portico. The cake was Georgetown Cupcakes and late night snacks included hot pretzels and mustard served in mini-Nat’s hats…a nod to the couple’s love of Baseball.

Photography: Abby Jiu Photography | Event Planning: Lauryn Prattes Styling and Events | Floral Design: Holly Heider Chapple Flowers LTD | Wedding Dresses: Rent The Runway | Catering: Catering By Windows | Hair + Makeup: Georgetown Bride | Wedding Venue: DAR Continental Memorial Hall | Linens: Nuage Designs | Rentals: DC Rental | Rentals: Party Rental LTD | Rentals: Capital Party Rentals

A Wedding in Her Parent’s Backyard Where They Had Their First Kiss

These two sweethearts first met as kids at summer camp, and their story is one for the books. Fast forward over a decade to their wedding day and you’ll find a backyard celebration filled with breezy California style and no shortage of meaningful details. HoneyFitz Events came on board to plan and coordinate with Jessica Castro working behind the lens. Congrats, lovers!

Colors
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Backyard
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Casual

From The Bride…Not everyone gets to say they actually grew up with the love of their life. Mark and I met at summer camp when we were 11 years old; and we began dating when we were 17. After staying together through college across the country from one another, moving back to Los Angeles, living together in an adorable bungalow, rescuing a puppy, and enjoying life together, we got engaged 11 years after we first started dating. Having been together for so long, we wanted to make our wedding celebration as personal and full of joy as possible.

Mark and I still live within 15 minutes of where we both grew up and wanted to showcase the beauty and laid-back quality of our lives in Southern California. We chose to have the reception in my parent’s garden where we had our first kiss, and the ceremony was across the street in our dear neighbors’ backyard. My mom, a landscape architect, had designed the gardens at both homes, not knowing they would later make the perfect venue for our wedding celebration.

I knew I found my dress as soon as I saw it at a Rue de Seine trunk show at Lovely Bride LA. Michele Corty, the talented and sweet designer of Rue de Seine, even took my exact measurements for the dreamy floral lace dress so it would fit my 6ft1 frame. Mark, who rarely wears pants, wore a French navy suit from J Crew with matching shorts that he changed into (along with a brand new pair of Birkenstocks) for the dancing potion of the evening. I wanted my bridesmaids to wear dresses in the same floral print, but different styles. Coming up empty handed after searching for fabric, I decided to buy them all the same floral maxi dress from Asos and then encouraged them to change it into whatever they would like. One bridesmaid kept the dress the same, while my maid-of-honor turned hers into a two-piece with a crop top, another created a jumpsuit, and the other made hers short. It was so fun seeing what they came up with to suit their own style.

As a floral designer, I was focused on the ambiance and beauty of the wedding. We chose a cheerful wedding palette, combining coral, peach, and a range of greens and yellows with dove grey. We selected Memorial Day weekend for our wedding not only because we would be able to have a multi-day celebration with our guests, but also because of the abundance of Coral Charm Peonies, my favorite flower, during the month of May. My floral assistants from Lark Farnum Design worked their tails off creating the gorgeous tables of lush garlands and abundant flowers I had designed. I asked my close friends who were not formally bridesmaids to come over to my parents’ house while I was getting ready in the morning to make themselves flower crowns for the wedding. I made the boutonnieres and bouquets the morning of the wedding, tying lace handmade by my great, great, great grandmother into both my bouquet and the bouquet of my maid-of honor, my cousin. I put two other family heirlooms onto my bouquet, a pin loaned to me by my 92-year-old grandmother and another loaned to me by Mark’s family that had belonged to his late-grandmother.

Having been in the wedding industry for a number of years, I was so happy to have chosen incredible vendors to pull off the big day so that I could relax and enjoy the day. The amazing Jennifer and Susan of HoneyFitz Events put all my plans into action and pulled off a day that felt effortless and welcoming for all of our guests. Jessica Castro beautifully captured the emotions and splendor of the day in her photos. We chose to have our favorite Mexican restaurant, La Cabinita, cater the dinner so we could eat our favorite meal on our favorite day. Someone was even making fresh tortillas on site! Along with delicious cake from Crust and Crumble, my amazing aunt made 200 mini fruit pies (my favorite dessert) that guests could eat while dropping it low on the dance floor. Petey of Queue DJ set the tone of our wedding perfectly with a playlist that kept our guests dancing until we shut the party down.

One of the most unforgettable moments of the wedding was when my dad and our best man sang a few songs together. I think most everyone was tearing up when my dad played “Sweet Baby James” which he used to play for me when I was little.

Mark and I both could barely stop crying out of joy all day. I loved looking out during our ceremony and not seeing a dry-eye amongst our guests as Mark and I read our own emotional vows. After a particularly moving line of his vows, I exclaimed, “Holy *expletive*, you wrote that?” After so many years together, having an event that brought our closest friends and family from all over the country and world together to celebrate our love is a joy I cannot fully explain and will never ever forget.

Photography: Jessica Castro | Floral Design: Lark Farnum Design | Wedding Dress: Rue De Seine | Cake: Crust + Crumble | Invitations: Basic Invite | Bride's Shoes: Valentino | Bridesmaids' Dresses: ASOS | Catering: La Cabanita | Hair + Makeup: Renee Loiz | DJ: Queue DJ | Groom's Attire: J.Crew | Venue: At Home | Beverage Services + Bar: About Thyme Catering | Bride's Rings: Salt & Stone | Custom Napkins: Paper Source | Escort Card Table: Leaf Decor | Event Planning + Coordination: HoneyFitz Events | Groom's Ring: Staghead Designs | Groom's Shoes: Cole Haan | Linen Rentals: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals: Edi Party Rental | Wooden Watches: Tree Hut

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
How to Rock the Hottest New Fashion Trend at Your Wedding

Fall and winter weddings are all about richness and warmth, and the season’s latest footwear trend is just that. With their plush texture and luxurious look, velvet shoes are the perfect finishing touch to any bride’s wedding look.  So, what are you waiting for? Kick up your velvet-clad heels with the pretties below!

Fall's Hottest New Shoe Trend
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Fall's Hottest New Shoe Trend
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More Shoes You’ll Adore

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The Most Iconic Engagement Rings of All Time

Elizabeth Taylor. Grace Kelly. Kate Middleton. What do all these gorgeous women have in common? They’ve sported some of the most recognizable engagement rings ever. From dazzling diamonds to mesmerizing emeralds to stunning sapphires, these 10 engagement rings have definitely earned their place in history — and our hearts.

Iconic Engagement Rings
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Iconic Engagement Rings
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More Engagement Rings to Obsess Over

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Do Away with Matchy-Matchy and Mix Metals Like a True Designer

Gone are the days of matchy-matchy and in is a cool eclectic look filled with mixed metals. From kitchens to bathrooms and cozy living spaces too, we’re seeing this trend pop-up everywhere. But mingling different finishes can be tough to maneuver. Not sure how to blend brass and chrome seamlessly? Try these five tips from expert metal mixers, Studio McGee.

From Studio McGeeWe love mixing metal finishes to give a more eclectic look, but it’s easier said than done! We receive lots of questions from clients and followers about mixing finishes. Is it okay to mix metals? How many can I put in one room? Which finishes work best? We LOVE the contrast and variety mixed metals create in a space. Over time, we have discovered that there really is a method to our madness! So today, we’re breaking out of the matchy-matchy, and giving you our guide to mixing metals!

Choose one dominant metal and use the other metal as an accent.

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Separate metals by height. All items on a similar plane should be the same metal.

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Juxtapose cool and warm tones.

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Mix 2-3 metal finishes in a space. And remember, black goes with everything!

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Create balance. Spread the dominant finish throughout the room.

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Design and Styling: Studio McGee | Photography: One: Travis J Photography | Two: Becky Kimball | Three: Travis J Photography | Four: Studio McGee | Five: Lindsay Salazar

Cast Your Vote: Did This Inspiration Shoot Take Place in Italy or Canada?

Tell me (in all honesty), did you think that this pretty little picture dreamed up by White Event Studio was taken in Italy? Well, Blush Wedding Photography will have you know that said shot was actually taken in the incredibly beautiful CANADA! Proving that you can achieve just about anything, exactly where you are. See the entire stunning shoot in The Vault!

From White Event StudioThe inspiration for this shoot came from one of my favourite countries, Italy- specifically Tuscany. Villa Marco Polo is a venue located in Victoria BC and thanks to its European, al fresco look, bringing our vision to life was effortless. The yellow house created such a beautiful backdrop and the sunny weather together with the scenic gardens really helped us set the mood.

A mix of dusty blue silk and organic linen were perfectly paired up with lush florals, handmade charger plates and copper elements to create a romantic and soft tablescape. One of my favourite inspiration details for this shoot was a 4-tiered ‘cheese cake,’ a delicious option for those who prefer savoury over sweet. For our ceremony dress, we opted for Alexandra Grecco’s delicate “Vivienne” gown; perfect piece for a spring celebration with its beautiful hand embroidered silk petals and spectacular movement. Our reception dress was the super chic yet classy Macabeau high waisted lace skirt with the gorgeous Macdowell top by Houghton.

When designing an event, there is nothing more important to me than being able to take my client’s inspiration and transport the guests through my design; especially when I feel so connected to the main inspiration (Italy) ideas flow naturally!

Photography: Blush Wedding Photography | Event Planning + Design: White Event Studio | Floral Design: Raspberry Flowers | Stationery: Emma Allen Photography + Design | Hair + Makeup: All Dolled Up Makeup & Hair Studio | Groom's Attire: Haberdasher & Co | Bridal Boutique: Union Bridal | Ceremony Dress: Alexandra Grecco | Cheese Tower: Charelli´s | Location: Villa Marco Polo | Reception Dress: Houghton Bride | Rentals: White Event Studio

This Beachy Inspo Sesh Will Make Your Hearts Happy

It’s amazing how something as simple as the wind can inspire sooo much pretty.  Like this romance-filled inspo sesh from a team of vendors that knows everything about throwing a breathtaking wedding – from the beautiful gowns from Jenny Yoo + BHLDN to the breathtaking florals from Studio Bloom to the stylingphotography prowess of Ivory + Bliss.  Head to THE VAULT to start pinning your hearts out. This one’s a must see.

From Ivory + Bliss… Romance. What is romance? Is it the act of sending a love letter, flowers on the table when we get home, or is it a feeling? Is it something you can’t see or touch, but something that you feel in the depth of your heart, in your whole body… Is it like the wind? These brief moments where our heart is full of love… it comes and goes, for if it was always there, it wouldn’t be so special when we feel it.

This shoot was dreamt up on a day where I was shooting a session on a windy beach back home. Her dress was flowing, the wind was in her hair, and I was waiting on all of these beautiful moments that I had no control over. I wanted to style a shoot to inspired by this anticipation. These beautiful moments we can’t plan, we don’t foresee, we just feel.

Photography: Ivory+Bliss | Styling: Ivory+Bliss | Floral Design: Studio Bloom | Ring: Trumpet & Horn | Hair + Makeup: Hair+Makeup by Haley Ann | Calligraphy: Kelsey Malie Calligraphy | Bridal Boutique: BHLDN | Floral Applique Gown: BHLDN | Location: Lake Keomah State Park | Ribbon: Adorn Company | Ring Box: The Mrs Box | Table Cloth: Silk and Willow | Table Decor: Target | Table Decor: Hobby Lobby | Wedding Dress (Strapless): Jenny Yoo

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
A Chic + Modern Celebration Set at a Swiss Chateau

Many cultures came together for this gorgeous countryside celebration that I’ll be staring at all day long. The red pops of color are my favorite, taking it from sweet and rustic to chic and modern – all thanks to the talented work of Floresie and Majenia Design. Anna Tereshina captured all the colorful beauty and the loving moments between this darling duosee them and more in our Vault right this way!

From the Couple… The delightful garden of the Château d’Eclépens gave us the chance to create the ceremony we dreamt of and bring together our family and closest friends. A place filled of romanticism, where the natural state of trees and flowers make us feel free to wander everywhere, in intimacy.

The whole ceremony was in the image of the garden and of course, in the image of all of our family and friends: colorful, emotional, and authentic. Simplicity and elegance, that’s what we wanted to give to our guests. Two rows of chairs, each embellish with a touch of gypsophila welcomed the guests; at the very end of the main aisle, a splendid vegetal arch, sublimed with hydrangeas, peonies and roses was to be admired.

During that beautiful day, we were constantly overwhelmed by sincere affections from family and friends.

As a multi-cultural couple (Vietnamese, Swiss and Italian origins), we wanted to have a wedding reflecting this cultural exchange and mix of traditions, values, languages and colors. The traditional Vietnamese Ao Dai, worn by Asian and European women that day, brought so much different and very lively colors; the flowing movement of the dresses in the wind gain the attention and gave a glance of elegance.

How could we think that such a day would bring our love and affection to each other in such a strong and indescribable feeling of fullness. The caring and complicity, which build our relation, enable us to carry out the celebration. We hope that they will continue to lead us in this great life together.

From Majenia Design… The style of Elsa and Sébastien’s wedding was thought as a chic countryside wedding, in coherence with the venue, a castle from the 18th century with cute red shutters hosting a vineyard, surrounded by cereal fields and large park.

This aspect was emphasized by creating some special areas in the castle’s park with vintage indoor type of furniture brought outside: a cozy couch corner, a little iron bed for the couple to sit on during the ceremony, a vintage wood table for the Photo Booth area.

The countryside feeling came with the surroundings relayed by seasonal or local “gourmandises” such as the own castle vine served during the day, honey as guest favor, seasonal fruits to pick freely from the dinner table and a double caterer: a traditional French dinner served in parallel with… a Thaï buffet!

The later was chosen to complement the event with notes coming from Elsa’s Asiatic origins, just like the traditional Vietnamese gowns of the bridesmaids and touches of red used in the color palette throughout the day.

From Floresie… When I met Elsa and Sebastien for the first time to discuss about their dream flowers, we met on site at Eclepens’ castle. They were dreaming about a chic modern countryside wedding, and it was clear to them that they wanted a lot of foliage and contrast in color and textures. The green surroundings of the swiss castle, the large trees in the park were very inspiring to me and I was delighted when they explained that they were thinking about a large arch for the ceremony to be installed among the centennial trees in the park.

We therefore, designed a very bold arch, massive enough so as to find its place among the vast trees. We never defined exactly what kind of flowers would be on it, Elsa and Sebastien just told me they’d love to have flowers with touches of blue on too and not just foliage. Actually the wedding happened beginning of July and I was lucky enough to find amazing red charm peonies which were perfect in the color palette but that I was not even hoping for as the season could have been already over. It’s been a very good surprise for Elsa who’s so in love with them!

So red charm peonies have been the principal flower linking the ceremony to the dinner party. Then came garden roses, mainly red pianos from my favorite grower near Paris that harvest them fully opened, with their vibrant red color that can illuminate any design.

Foliage again for the diner, in the air, a 100 feet ruscus garland welcomed the guests at the entrance of the dinner tent. Foliage again, mixed with peonies, garden roses, artichoke, apricot and cherries, seasonal products only on the table… and I heard the guests loved them and cherries did not last long that night.

Photography: Anna Preisig Photography | Event Design: Majenia | Floral Design: Floresie | Wedding Dress: Delphine Manivet | Invitations: Allons-y Alonso | Bride's Shoes: UGG Australia Jules | Makeup: Rachel Roggo | Hair: Thu Trinh Nguyen | Groom's Attire: Confident | Venue: Château d'Eclépens | Groom's Shoes: Septíème Largeur | Signage: Acaciapiks

Margartias + Love = the Ultimate E-Sesh

Seeing as it’s the last day of August, we thought what better way to celebrate summer than with a margarita fueled engagement session? Thankfully Alexandra Elise Photography was behind the lens to capture every delicious sip and we’ve got it all waiting to quench your thirst in The Vault!

From Alexandra Elise PhotographyA few weeks ago I had the chance to travel to Scranton, PA to photograph Ashley and Justin’s engagement session to celebrate their upcoming wedding. I love traveling to new locations to shoot because it is incredibly inspiring– from the playfulness in the creek to the downtown romance, this session is truly beautiful. Captured solely on medium format film, the emotion and movement are intimately captured.

From The Bride…Justin and I met in college. I was finishing up my under grad in nursing school and he was completing his masters in administration. We hit it off immediately and spent every day of the rest of the semester together.

Justin proposed in Ireland at the Cliffs of Moher 2 years later at the top of a castle. (Ireland is very special to me because my grandma is from there and I have lots of relatives living there). That day, it was cold and drizzly. We got to the cliffs and I had told him and our friends to go ahead, I had already seen the cliffs and didn’t feel like trekking up the cliffs in the chilly, rainy weather. He somehow dragged me out of the car, got me to the top of the cliffs and he got down on one knee! I was in complete shock and immediately forgot about the weather and how cold I was.

Our life has been an amazing adventure together so far. We have lived in three different states and have seen so many things. We have learned through this that it does not matter where we are, or what we have, but rather being with the one that matters the most, no matter where life takes us.

Photography: Alexandra Elise Photography

Dramatic + Romantic Bouquets Fit for Any Love Story

Forget long-stem red roses — these bouquets are the new standard of romance. In shades of moody reds, soft pinks and rich purples, these pretties are basically a handwritten love note, box of chocolates and a candlelit dinner rolled into one. And when it comes to your wedding day, the more romantic, the better!

Dramatic Bouquets
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Dramatic Bouquets
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Find More Floral Inspiration This Way

Pretty Peony Bouquets | What Your Favorite Blooms Mean | Gorgeous Garden Rose Bouquets

One Love Story That Proves Timing Is Everything

Although Jeremy and Kristen grew up in the same town, attended the same high school, AND were just two years apart, they didn’t meet until years later. Thankfully once their paths crossed, we are left with said stunning celebration captured by the incredible Heather Payne Photography. It’s the ultimate sweater weather celebration and we’ve got it awaiting your arrival in The Vault!

From Heather Payne PhotographyIt’s sometimes rare to run across a couple that are so genuine and naturally “in love” and not afraid to express it. Jeremy and Kristen grew up in the same town, attended the same high school, just two years apart, but didn’t meet until years later. Kristen was working in a local kid and craft store when Jeremy came in to buy a gift for his friend and business partner’s little one. It wasn’t long before they started dating, and they fell in love almost immediately. After just over a year of dating, Jeremy asked Kristen to marry him at sunset in Asheville, North Carolina on his birthday. On October 18, 2015, they were married in a beautiful, but simple ceremony with 100 of their closest family and friends.

Kristen’s love for all things light, simple, and elegant made planning their wedding relatively easy in terms of design. She knew that despite planning a fall wedding, she wanted the colors to be white, grey, blush pink, and gold, with a few fall colors incorporated into the flowers, and lots of greenery. Luckily for her, Jeremy was fine with her plan as long as they could have a fall wedding and he could wear a brown suit. The ceremony and reception took place at Kristen’s grandparents’ cabin or “the cabin”, as family has always called it. They decided not to have a wedding party, but have family wear specific colors and coordinating attire.

The day of the wedding, Kristen and her sisters spent the morning leisurely getting pampered by the hair stylist and make-up artist at the cabin, while enjoying coffee and breakfast made by her mom and nana. “It was truly the most stress-free morning and spending it getting ready with my sisters and mom made for an intimate, memorable day with family before I was to start a new family with Jeremy. None of it felt quite real until I was completely dressed and walked out the door to do the first look with my dad. That’s when it hit me and when the tears came”, according to Kristen.

After the father/daughter first look, it was time for a first look with with bride and groom. Jeremy had arrived to the cabin about an hour earlier to get ready. Jeremy and Kristen were taken a mile down the road to a woodsy area close by to share their first look. Such a special moment as they opened their eyes to see each other as bride and groom for the first time. “I’ll never forget the way he looked at me and began to cry when we were told to open our eyes. In that moment, I was reminded that he sees me as the most beautiful girl in the world and life with him will be one filled with joy.”

Both of Kristen’s parents walked her down the aisle and gave her away to Jeremy. The ceremony had traditional and unique aspects, including both traditional and hand-written vows, as well as the planting of a tree with soil from both of their childhood homes to symbolize their individual histories and coming together as one. After they were pronounced husband and wife, guests enjoyed corn hole games, hot cider and the sun setting over the lake. Once the couple’s first dance, the father/daughter dance, and the mother/son dances were complete, guests were seated at a long table running parallel to the lake under cafe lights while vinyl records were played by the DJ. Dinner was served family-style and included southern staples such as a strawberry and goat cheese salad, fried chicken, green beans, and macaroni and cheese.

Dancing ensued, popsicles and homemade cakes made by Kristen’s great aunt were enjoyed as the night came to a close. The fun wasn’t over quite yet though, as their was one more surprise that Kristen didn’t know about. Guests lined up for the sparkler send-off and Jeremy and Kristen began walking down the pathway when, at the end of the line, a 1988 Jeep Grand Wagoneer (Kristen’s dream car) was waiting for them. Jeremy had purchased it and had parts of it restored just days before the wedding, for the sole purpose of surprising her. In total shock when he said it was theirs to keep, Kristen jumped into the air with excitement. Before he could get around the car to open the door for her, she ran to the passenger side and hopped in. They drove off feeling unbelievably grateful for a wonderful family that provided them with such a stunning wedding day and an incredible team of people that brought it all together.

Photography: Heather Payne | Catering: Mama's Boy | Makeup: Elijana Cosmetics | Hair: Anna Bonnema | Venue: At Home | China + Glassware: Barrons Rental Store | Desserts: King Of Pops | Event Planning + Floral Design: Whitewood Events | Rentals: Goodwin Events | Specialty Textiles: Alanah Textiles

This Beautiful Sunrise Shoot is all the Inspiration We’ll Ever Need

There’s already something innately romantic about a beautiful sunrise, but take that aforementioned sunrise and add in a talented team of vendors with an amazing story to tell and the results are beyond. From the stunning stationery from El’s Cards to the breathtaking gown from Kate McDonald, Leander Matos Weddings planned + styled every.last.moment to absolute perfection.  See it all captured in the sweet film from Selah Films below, and in gorgeous images by Rachel Buckley in THE VAULT.

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From Leander Matos Weddings… Oh, where to begin on detailing this gorgeous shoot. This was hands down my most favorite shoot to date, from the planning to the design and the styling, I was truly invigorated from the second I started planning it. I would get up at 2 am any day of the week to capture the gorgeous sunrise we were blessed with on this day. The inspiration for this shoot came from a story between two lovers, Ake and Paolina. Ake was a Swedish fisherman desperate to find love. He wrote his wish of finding his true love, sealed the note in a bottle, and tossed it out to sea. Two years later the bottle washed ashore along the coast of Siciliy where another fisherman found the message in a bottle and gave it to his daughter, Paolina. Over the next five years, Ake and Paolina exchanged letters, this time through the mail, until they eventually met, wed and lived happily ever after.

The combination of romance, fate and the depth of love they felt for one another in this story gave me goosebumps and recreating those same feelings in the shoot became my muse.

I was truly honored to feature the stunning Pollitzer gown from Kate McDonald Bridal in this shoot. Everything thing about this dress and our model, Lindsey James was magical combination. Her gorgeous hair by Chelsey Drapeau was the perfect nod to the old world, yet modern feeling we wanted to portray and the beautiful makeup by artist, Christine Flanagan of The Crown Boutique highlighted Lindsey’s natural beauty flawlessly.

El Braley of El’s Cards created the most perfect invitation suite. I adored the watercolor calligraphy and the map and nautical details added the perfect finishing touch. The quotes she wrote were the beautiful love messages anyone would hope to find in a bottle washed ashore.

The stunning bouquet designed by Betsy Scott from The Flower Kiosk could not have been more perfect. I wanted a large, airy and organic feel for the bouquet and she truly created a masterpiece that was perfectly captured in the photographs!

Photographer Rachel Buckley of Rachel Buckley Weddings and cinematographer Leah Richardson of Selah Films captured this shoot magnificently. Watching these ladies work their magic behind their lenses was awe-inspiring. Truly. The photographs and film tell the story better than I ever could have hoped for.

I don’t even have words to express my gratitude to the entire creative time behind this shoot. It came to life more beautifully than I ever could have imagined, thank you all for sharing your gift of creativity to this inspiration shoot!

Photography: Rachel Buckley Weddings | Cinematography: Selah Films | Event Planning: Leander Matos Weddings | Floral Design: Flower Kiosk | Wedding Dress: Kate McDonald Bridal | Makeup: The Crown Boutique | Hair: Chelsey Drapeau | Stationery + Calligraphy: El's Cards | Model: Lindsey James

Sparkles From Top to Bottom for This Elegant Meets Boho Chic Bash

While they may be one adventurous couple (we’re talking around the world travels, underwater photography and sharks) when it came time to say “I do” they settled on Chapel Hill and the comfort that only home can bring. They decked out Fearrington House with sparkles from top to bottom and extended that style all the way to the Bride’s beautiful Jenny Peckham dress. Graham Terhune captured all and we’re positively smitten with this daring duo who also appreciate the beauty of home base.

From the Bride… My husband and I are from opposite corners of the globe (he’s from Melbourne, Australia, and though I was born in Korea, I grew up in Chapel Hill, North Carolina). We met in 2008 in Roatan, Honduras where I was living at the time. Our journey over the past eight years has been filled with global adventures due to the fact that our long distance love affair gave us a great excuse to travel. As an underwater photographer, I eventually made him into a sort of muse, placing him next to sharks, coral walls and deep wrecks in places like Fiji, Micronesia and the Bahamas. And so though it would have been fitting to have a destination wedding, we decided that, with the overwhelming world of possibilities out there to choose from, that we would celebrate our story in Chapel Hill. A modest university town, we figured it was a fitting place for restless travelers to put their feet up for a week or two, eat a few home cooked, Southern meals, and inhale the North Carolina spring in a place that most would never have an excuse to visit otherwise.

But for us, it was truly the people who made the wedding memorable. We had friends and family in from all seven continents (including a bestie who jumped off an icebreaker coming from Antarctica and onto a flight to North Carolina). It was a melting pot of ethnicities, backgrounds and interests, all thrown together in Fearrington’s barn that was adorned with eucalyptus (in celebration of my Australian husband), sparkly linens (in concert with my obsession with sparkles, which is also evident from my dress), and twinkly lights. And to top it all off, the band was killer, and as they closed out the evening with “Purple Rain” (Prince had just passed, but the song had been requested a long time before, because it is my favorite), the entire wedding party circled around us. And when the song finished, everyone collapsed onto us into one, giant, hug, ending a most magical night with some our best friends from around the world.

Photography: Anagram Photo | Event Planning + Design: Kast Events | Floral Design: The Fearrington House | Wedding Dress: Jenny Packham | Catering: The Fearrington House | Hair + Makeup: Ashley Mooney | Band: Skinny Bag of Sugar | Venue: The Fearrington House

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The Sweetest Monogramed Bridesmaid Brunch

Hello, brides-to-be! It’s Ali from Love You, Mean It here to share one of the most fun days i’ve had with some of my very best friends! Besides the fact that I get to marry the man of my dreams, our wedding day is something I look forward to because it’s a day we get to spend with our closest friends and family. And there is one thing for sure, I couldn’t say “i do” without a few special ladies by my side!

I love giving gifts! I often find that giving a gift is far better than receiving one, so I wanted to find a memorable way to ask my friends to be bridesmaids! For those girls living in Dallas, I thought it would be fun to host a brunch to create an experience to show how much I appreciate them, beyond just the gift they would receive.

I wanted to create an intimate setting that would make my friends feel extra special! Our wedding colors will be white, green and gold, so i wanted to incorporate this color scheme as much as possible throughout the tablescape to really set the tone for what’s to come! Each place setting had the most gorgeous pretty little plates, accompanied by green and gold accents. I wrote each girl a special note and used the calligraphy by Alli K Designs on the envelope as their place cards! And no table is complete without a beautiful centerpiece of fresh flowers. R love floral created the most stunning white and green bouquet that made the entire look come together!

For bites, I wanted to recreate some of my favorite brunch items, this time only smaller! Silver-dollar pancakes, mini pastries and petite parfaits were on the menu. And of course, no party is complete without bubbly! For the actual gift, I wanted the girls to receive something that they could not only wear during the wedding, but also have as a reminder of this special time. Inside a monogrammed jewelry box from parker thatch, they would find matching crystal earrings that would be perfect for the big day! A little something for now, and a little something for the wedding day!

I am so grateful to have such wonderful women in my life and I couldn’t have asked for a better day to celebrate them. This is just the beginning of an exciting journey ahead and luckily for me, I have some of the most kind, caring, and intelligent women by my side! To see more of our day, check out this fun video by when it clicks! Thank you so much for following along on this exciting adventure! I hope you are enjoying it just as much as I am!

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Follow Ali’s Journey Down the Aisle!

Meet the Bride!


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Photography: Tarin Frantz | Calligraphy: Alli K Design | Floral Design: R Love Floral | Ali’s Top: Pleione | Ali’s Skirt: Topshop | Rentals: Pretty Little Plates | Jewelry Box: Parker Thatch | Cinematography: When It Clicks | Bridesmaid’s Earrings: J.Crew Factory |

Allison Hollins

Blogger Bride
The Perfect Color Combo for an Eternally Bright and Happy Home

If sunshine and bright, happy places are your cup of tea then this Seattle home will for sure steal your heart. It has white walls that pop and a citrusy color palette of orange, peach and gold that really warm things up. Plus about a billion perfectly styled vignettes. Which makes perfect sense seeing as how the owner of this chic abode also owns the prettiest home decor store, Forage. Click through the gallery captured by Emma Rose to see more and tour the store!

There is no question that the moment you step inside the home of Colleen and Darrek Rosen you feel something truly special. Their space is dreamy white with touches of peach and gold throughout, making it a space that is sophisticated, elegant, and comfortable.

Colleen and Darrek reside in Seattle, Washington where they have raised two beautiful daughters. Darrek runs his own successful business while Colleen is the co-owner of a beautiful retail space downtown called Forage where you will find stunning inventory and additional stock available for rental, lifestyle, food, product, and editorial shoots.

Living in the Pacific Northwest can be gloomy but you won’t feel those dreary days inside this home. It is absolutely spectacular and stunning.

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A Pop of White
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A Pop of White
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Photography: Emma Rose

12 of the Cutest Books to Put on Your Baby’s Bookshelf

I must say that kid’s books now are WAY cuter than they were when I was growing up. Sure, Dr. Seuss will never go out of style. But baby reads like Flora and the Flamingo? Wins the cuteness factor, hands down. Stock up on sweet reading for your babe with these 12 adorable books!

12 of the Cutest Books to Put on Your Baby's Bookshelf
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12 of the Cutest Books to Put on Your Baby's Bookshelf
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A Fun DIY for Baby’s Nursery!

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Breathtaking seaside nuptials + a luxe ballroom reception? Sign. Us. Up.

Saying “I do” on the beach doesn’t mean sacrificing that elegant ballroom wedding you’ve always dreamed of.  Don’t believe me?  Just ask these two cuties, who married seaside at Hotel Casa Del Mar in one of the prettiest celebrations we have ever seen.  From the breathtaking “I do’s” to the stunning ballroom reception, this unique affair is allll about the luxury.  See it here in THE VAULT.

Saying “I do” mere steps from the Pacific Ocean?  I truly can’t think of a more perfect celebration. Unless, of course, you want to follow in the footsteps of this stunning duo and keep the party going with a night of dancing (+ champagne toasts) in a glam ballroom decked to the nines with sophisticated gold and white details. It’s basically the epitome of a dream wedding and we have Hotel Casa del Mar to thank for delivering all of the pretty.  Think luxurious accommodations, a talented team of wedding professionals AND a sweet locale like Santa Monica as the world’s coolest Big Day backdrop.  Awesome doesn’t even begin to describe it.

Whether you’re planning an intimate celebration for your closest friends + family or a more grand affair for hundreds of your loved ones, Hotel Casa Del Mar will turn your every wish into a seriously stunning reality. Get inspired by soaking in even more of this beautiful day here, then head to Hotel Casa Del Mar’s website to start planning your very own. You can thank us later, loves.

Photography: JKoe Photo | Videography: White Rose Production | Event Planning & Design: Kat Minassi Events | Floral Design: Avant Garden | Cake: The Butter End Cakery | Makeup: Jasmine Kim | Hair: Ashley Walters | Lighting: TmmPro | Officiant: Robert Espero | Ceremony Music: Rispsi Yepremyan | Event Host : Hryer Kaprealian | Music: Mike Soltani | Pastry: Rafi's Pastry And Cakes | Percussionist: Moris Hedvat | Rentals: White Night

The Ridiculously Cool Wedding We’ve All Been Waiting For

I can’t even tell you how excited we are to share this decidedly “cool girl” wedding. It’s one of those celebrations that completely breaks the mold with rich, moody colors, unique design moments (they were married under a teepee!) and a modern boho vibe that’s a TOTAL breath of fresh air. Bravo, Amorology for designing the desert wedding of our dreams and Ashley Keleman for photographing these gems in The Vault.

 

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From AmorologyWhen Jen and Brian came to us, they had just cancelled their Dominican Republic destination wedding due to the Zika outbreak and had to move the celebration state-side. The couple wanted a place where they could surround themselves with the family and friends they would have been traveling with and luckily for us they turned to one of our favorite locations, Colony 29, where they could all gather together and stay nearby.

The desert oasis set the perfect backdrop for their modern boho palette of dusty nudes and dark moody jewel tones of raspberry, muted turquoise, emerald, and magenta. As a nod to how their relationship developed – the couple met as neighbors in an apartment complex sharing a wall – Jen and Brian were married under a teepee to symbolize their two homes now becoming one.

The dainty lion brought us wild and free blooms to adorn a ceremony and reception already surrounded by rose gardens, orchard trees, and flower vines. To lend a cocktail vibe, we brought in an eclectic mix of modern bohemian elements through folklore and added candlelight and ambiance to the atmosphere with black taper candles and brass candlesticks.

Guests dined at low tables with moroccan poufs or smaller clusters of tulip tables set with geode slabs and brass chargers. As we further got to know Jen and Brian, we learned that they while opposite in character they truly are each other’s better half – and as such we decided to pay homage to this by hanging fringed hemispheres on a marble backdrop to represent two halves of the same moon. Guests also gathered their seating assignments here from calligraphed crystal moon rocks. Throughout the night, guests sipped on the Girl Next Door and the Neighbor Boy (a reference to the nickname for Brian coined lovingly by Jen’s friends during their early courting days) and danced the night away.

Guests were treated to a family style meal by Miho Catering, and in lieu of a traditional cake the couple opted for tray-passed mini-churros and hand pies. The night was truly one of those perfect palm springs evenings, where guests gathered under the stars surrounded by painted hills to celebrate a love as bright as the desert moon.

Photography: Ashley Keleman | Event Design: Amorology | Event Planning: Amorology | Floral Design: Kimberly Anderson, The Dainty Lion | Wedding Dress: Inbal Dror | Catering: MIHO | Hair + Makeup: Sparkle Tafao | Calligraphy: Betlem Calligraphy | DJ: Dart DJ | Venue: colony 29 | Backdrop: Backup Backdrops | Beverage Services: RoomForty | Day of Paper Design: Peanut Press Creative | Lounge Area: Folklore Vintage Rentals | Rentals: Classic Party Rentals | Rentals: Witty Rentals | Tabletop: Hostess Haven

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A Modern Day Princess Wedding

Truth be told, I’m completely obsessed with everything about this bride’s look. That blush pink Tara Keely ballgown, those sparkly gold pumps, and a messy-chic topknot fit for a modern princess. Of course, every detail of the wedding fit her romantic bridal look and Jasmine Lee Photography captured all the fun – go see for yourself!

From Jasmine Lee PhotographyJenny and Marvin married at the beautiful venue, Canyon View that overlooks the East Bay valley. Friends and family gathered from all over the world to celebrate their nuptial. Jenny was a gorgeous bride wearing a blush pink wedding gown by Tara Keely and gold pumps. She didn’t want a traditional up-do so Lela Nguyen did a beautiful job creating a high messy bun. Marvin looked quite dapper in his custom made Proper Suits paired with Christian Louboutin shoes. Love Life and Bloom used white and soft pink flowers to create the romantic ambience.

From The Bride…My husband and I have been together for 8 years before he proposed. I was super shocked (even though, I really shouldn’t be after so many years) and so happy to start planning the wedding that I’ve been looking forward to for so many years!! Once I started, I realized this was going to be a lot work and so I took my time doing it. It took me 2 years to plan my wedding. I love to be in love so naturally I envisioned something very romantic. I went with a very light blush pink and gold theme. It worked out perfectly because I ended up finding a ball gown by Tara Keely that I felt like a princess in. The main thing we wanted for our wedding was for everyone to have fun! Everything else fell into place with that in mind.

Photography: Jasmine Lee Photography | Cinematography: That One Studio | Coordination: Direct my Day | Floral Design: Love Life & Bloom | Wedding Dress: JLM Couture, Inc | Cake: Kathy's Kreative Kakes | Bride's Shoes: Steve Madden | Hair + Makeup: Lela Nguyen | Calligraphy: Mimi Calligraphy | Groom's Attire: Proper Suit | Venue: Canyon View | Rental Decor: Chair Divas

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here