Dreamy Chateau Wedding Inspiration Straight From The Heart Of Athens

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How about a castle fairytale with a flavor of Greek charm? Fall in love with this editorial shoot that took place in Greece! We know that when you think of Greece, you dream of either ancient historic buildings or amazing island scenery. But how about a chateau wedding inspiration? We are sure that you will fall in love as we managed to get the Queen’s castle for an exclusive wedding editorial. Music is what makes us calm down, music is what makes us all dream… Music is what makes us move forward, and music has the ability to make this tear you try to keep jailed on your eye, drop! Music is what made us dream of this workshop, and through music, we are going to express the feelings these images make us feel a few months after this event took place. The entire event was planned perfectly by the prestigious Ioanna Karatza. An amazing and so so talented human being that is willing to give her 200% of power in every event. A sensitive and romantic, yet true professional that made us feel calm and relaxed and made Pyrgos Vasilissis her playground, as she and her associates made the chateau look like it came out of a lullaby. Main characters of this shoot? Jim Labraco with his dreamy floral creations, and Dimitra Antonea, owner and designer of Made Bride, made our bride the one and only ‘Dancing Queen’ – in the more romantic way, of course. Isn’t this moon-shaped multi-colored rose floral arrangement the best thing you have ever seen? Our groom’s fashion was this exquisite suit created by Papadogamvros, and it is part of his collection for the famous Greek basketball players, the Antetokounmpo brothers. ‘Happiness is a butterfly,’ as beloved Lana says, and all I can share with you for this butterfly shoe by Bella Belle Shoes is just the word W O W… Looking back on this pair of heels, all I can feel is happiness and joy! VVassia Papakonstantinou was the lady behind the beauty of our models, and speaking of happiness, what made us even more ‘Happy’ was the amazing happening by the unique Kibeli – the Photo Booth and the so so classy invitation suite created by Mr. Pavlos Leventelis, the man behind Atelier Invitations. The entire event was filmed by the talented team of White Filming, under the direction of the talented Periklis Papandreopoulos. Last but not least, what made our flatlays ‘Shine’ even more was the fine jewelry by Iordanis Manufacturing Jewelry Gems and the classy ring boxes by the ‘Velweds’ ring box suite. Greece is such an amazing place with millions of hidden gems. We, the co-founder of YOU the Workshop George Liopetas, and the entire team wish you all the best, and look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful Greece.

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Colors are what makes a blank canvas stand out. Colors arewhy the world goes around. Colors are what we chose for this princely editorial. From the million-tonal canvas of florals to the amazing and colorful tailor creation by Made Bride. From the navy blue suit, our groom ROCKED to the greenery all around our exquisite chateau venue. Nevertheless, we didn’t want a strong color – that one that would step out of the crowd. We wanted a huge palette of colors that would make a strong team – like the one we had between all the vendors who worked hard for this workshop.

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Pyrgos Vasilissis (which in Greek means The Queen’s Castle) is an amazing chateau-styled castle that can be found close to the center of Athens. Isn’t this amazing? When we began planning all the details for ‘YOU the Workshop,’ we wanted something unique – something amazing and so tasteful for our beloved attendees. And in my opinion, this scenery will make you dream of times only ‘Clair De Lune’ can make you dream of. Teamed up between me (George Liopetas Fine Art Photographs here) and my dear friend Fabijan Vuksic, we wanted to create something unique, something once in a lifetime… I know that this sounds a bit too much, but when you want to offer ‘the best of you,’ the name of a workshop could be no other but ‘YOU the Workshop’.

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From Dimitra Antonea, owner and designer of Made Bride: ‘When this romantic and colorful inspired styled shoot at Pyrgos Vasilissis – which is actually a palace in the heart of Athens, the capital of Greece- came to the table, I knew from the very beginning that this gown from “CHARISMA” Collection would be a great match to the concept. Nothing says “royal” more loud and clear than style CHA_21.24, a statuesque whimsical gown that features a deep V neckline embroidered with multicolored floral lace mixed just as well among the tulle and appliqued to the sheer fitted sleeves. A tight waistline determines feminine body posture, and the opulent polka dot tulle skirt in three tiers offers volume and a regal ambiance. It is easy to imagine our beautiful young couple is the next generation of blue bloods with a little twist and get inspired for the coming weddings!’

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From Jim Labraco, owner and head floral designer of Jim Labraco: ‘There is a certain magic that comes with creating freestyle arrangements using garden roses, unique wildflowers, and buttery colors. It allows me to tap into my senses and let my creativity guide me, adapting to the natural beauty of the forest. As I gather each element, I envision the final product, carefully selecting each flower and greenery to complement one another. I let the colors and textures speak to me, creating a harmony that feels like it was meant to be. Once the arrangement is complete, it’s like a beautiful masterpiece that brings the essence of the forest indoors. Each bloom tells a story, and I feel grateful to have made something beautiful and unique to bring joy to those who see it.’

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Loved the moments of I and Fabijan while sharing all the knowledge with our attendees. Day one was the seminar day. We wanted to share EVERYTHING around a wedding day and all the processes of a wedding photographer. From the very early stage of the emails to the final stages of editing and delivering. And that is what we did – we invited friends and colleagues from every field. Apart from the photography knowledge and all the tips I and Fabijan shared, we had also invited Fanis Failadis (Professional Image Editor), Periklis Papandreopoulos (Wedding Filmmaker, Director), Diagoras Vougas (IT & Business Developement), Ioanna Karatza (Planner, Event Designer) and Alexander Giannoulis, album designer and owner of Unico Albums. This was 12 hours of ‘back to school.’ But we enjoyed every moment. Especially at the end of the day when we all enjoyed each other’s company at our ‘Italian night’ where we had our Italian ‘Pizza and Vino’ moment. Day 2 was the editorial day. We began early in the morning by photographing the beautiful The Queen’s Castle. Afterward, talented Fabijan Vuksic had his own time of ‘Flat-lays 101’ where he shared with the attendees his know-how around the flat-lay styling. Directing around the set was my main purpose of the day, and I am happy to share that after 6 hours of editorial shooting, I could only see hugs and smiles while enjoying our fun time around the Kibeli Photobooth, where Chris Kosmas and his team were creating amazing moments for all of us around this beauty called Kibeli. YOU the Workshop is not another seminar or workshop. ‘YOU’ is a mentality, ‘YOU’ is a state of mind. ‘YOU’ is an annual workshop with one and only cause – to share the knowledge around the wedding industry globally.

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Cool Tones and Contemporary Details Are the Perfect Match at Perona Farms

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]blue, sage, and cream. [/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]The venue itself has a perfectly warm, modern aesthetic that we loved balancing with our more cool tones. We were excited about the gorgeous light in the ceremony space with the greenery as a backdrop and an abundance of floral petals & pieces lining the center aisle. To create a perfect contrast with the greens, and industrial accents of the venue we opted for tones like blue, sage and cream.[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]We booked an Air BNB in Mountain Top PA, close to where Tori’s absolutely favorite dream photographer was located. We actually both ended up reaching out to her separately to plan our proposal without realizing it. We set up a perfect wintery arbor in the backyard of our Air BNB while Brittany, our photographer captured us from afar. Kristen proposed first followed by so much excitement and hugs followed by Tori dropping down on one knee to propose to Kristen. The smiles & tears were overflowing and it was just such a magical double proposal.[/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Kirsten opted to customize her Rosa Clara gown with bow sleeves, and an A-line silhouette that created this soft, romantic look. Tori had a custom white suit made to go with her sexy bejeweled bridal top from David’s. Both Brides wore matching shoes by DSW. Both brides also wore veils, which made for such beautiful pictures as they shared vows, and walked out of their ceremony hand and hand as their first few moments married together.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]To ensure everyone was comfortable and able to find a dress they loved
right at home, we chose to use Revelry. Each member of our bridal party was assigned a fabric and shade of blue to choose from. The style was completely up to them!
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Perona Farms did not disappoint. With their seasonal menu, we were able to customize everything from wood-fired pizza to taco bars, raw bar, and elevated charcuterie. Their assortment was diverse and many ingredients were grown on-site! Our signature drinks were a “Marry Me Mule” and a ” Meant to be Mojito”

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The Refinery at Perona Farms and its endless greenery made planning decor and florals
a breeze. We went with greenery, creams, and a touch of blue florals to complement the already present greenery in the space. Pairing the florals with tons of candles brought a level of romance and intimacy just as we had envisioned. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]We went with a simple and elegant look with minimal design to allow the greenery and florals to stand out.[/field]
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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]All the men on both sides of our families showed up in Rainbow pride socks. Kristen’s family totally had no idea that Tori’s family was also arriving in the rainbow socks. So it was such a fun surprise to learn that both families arrived excited to share thair socks![/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Kristen and Tori met on Tinder, had a date and lost touch until a few years later they matched again on tinder & it was clear to them that they were meant to be. They have been together ever since![/field]
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D’Vine Grace Vineyard-All the Perks of A Tuscan Vineyard Venue But No Passport Required

Dreaming of a vineyard wedding but the thought of planning a destination wedding seems a little too overwhelming? Well, you’re in luck! One of our favorite vineyard estates is right here in the USA, in Texas to be exact, just a few minutes outside of Dallas. No stranger to the “Real Wedding” features of Style Me Pretty, D’Vine Grace Vineyard, has all the charm of a Tuscan getaway with a refined touch of that unbeatable Texas hospitality. Spacious courtyards, lush landscapes, a grand ballroom–with so many gorgeous spaces, the possibilities are endless! And why choose just one? This couple made the most of this fairytale venue and used three different spaces to bring their dream wedding to life!

Be As Hands-On or Hands-Off As You’d Like

One of our favorite parts about D’Vine Grace Vineyard is that they really customize the experience, even the planning. Let them handle it all or plan everything yourself and let their expert team execute your vision, or find the perfect fusion of the two. For this wedding, the bride, Samantha, had the entire concept already mapped out in her head, but the team at D’Vine Grace Vineyard made a few suggestions that took her vision to the next level, like using light blue napkins instead of the typical white. That little touch of color really pulled in the florals and made the whole design pop.

Designed With Weddings In Mind

The estate and grounds at D’Vine Grace Vineyard have been thoughtfully designed with weddings in mind. Take this breathtaking gazebo on the Il Prato lawn, it made the perfect backdrop for this outdoor ceremony that was literally dripping in florals! The couple, Samantha and Alex, worked closely with Petals Couture to create these bright and whimsical floral installations that took the already stunning lawn space from pretty to straight-up fairytale. Petals Couture wrapped the pillars in greenery and created a vibrant and whimsical floral arch that framed the happy couple as they said their I do’s.

World-Class Fine Dining On-Site

If you’re like most couples, your guests are probably coming from far and wide to be there for your big day, so the least you can do is make sure they eat (and drink) well, right? Well, it doesn’t get better than the synchronized meal service at D’Vine Grace Vineyard. They offer global cuisine menus and the best part? All the food is made right then and there on-site when it’s ready to be served. Guests at this wedding made their way to the Piazza D’Amore, a large outdoor courtyard surrounded by vine walls, and infinity fountains where they were greeted by light hors d’oeuvres like Coconut Shrimp, Spanish-Style Goat Cheese, and Sundried Tomatoes Montaditos. Then, as they entered the ballroom for the reception a refreshing Caprese salad was waiting for them. After the salad course, the catering team delivered synchronized service of each guest’s pre-selected entrees which were oven-roasted chicken seasoned with Italian herbs, served with herb au jus and accompanied by green beans and macaroni and cheese and prime sirloin steak seasoned with fresh herbs, served with a rosemary demi-glace, and paired with their signature whipped potatoes and garlic asparagus with balsamic glaze and sea salt. Vegetarian guests? No worries, the chefs at D’Vine Grace can accommodate any dietary preferences or restrictions. For this wedding, in keeping with the Italian theme, the vegetarian meal was lightly breaded eggplant and cheese layers served on a bed of angel hair pasta and marinara rustica. For dessert, guests were served individually portioned tiramisu made in-house along with the wedding cake from The London Baker.

A Blank-Canvas Ballroom

If you’ve looked at other ballrooms, you know how hard it can be to make them your own. Not this one…The Grand Ballroom at D’Vine Grace Vineyard has all of the elegance of a traditional ballroom but the crisp white walls and modern wood floors make it super easy to customize and even completely transform. For this wedding, they went all out to turn the ballroom into a floral wonderland with hanging arrangements that draped from one side of the mezzanine to the other and vibrant matching centerpieces.

Ready to let the team at D’Vine Grace Vineyard bring your dream wedding to life? Click here to schedule your consultation and start customizing your wedding package.

CREDITS

Venue |@dvinegracevineyard

Intimate Garden-Style Celebration at Château de Fonscolombe in the Provencal Countryside

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The main inspiration came from the venue. We wanted to get an elegant, garden-style vibe that would suit the Chateau’s magnificent gardens. The Chateau set the color palette for us: with its dusty blue shutters, green towers, and yellow stone walls, it was all there!

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The wedding colors were yellow, dusty blue, and green.

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The Château de Fonscolombe in Provence served as the backdrop for this wedding-inspired shoot. Nestled in the heart of the Provençal countryside, this magnificent 18th-century chateau offers an idyllic setting for luxury weddings. This place is distinguished by its French garden, but also by its two majestic towers which welcome us on our arrival and mark the outline of the French garden. Pastel colors and delicate textures bring a romantic and elegant atmosphere and fully contribute to the atmosphere of the place.

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The key words when looking for the dress were: elegant, feminine, airy, glamourous with a hint of sexiness! Of course, we thought of Berta gowns and Ivanka model was just the perfect fit for the bride!

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In order to achieve the look, flowers were key. Garden roses (including David Austin roses) would bring the chic garden vibe we were looking for. The floral designers incorporated small spring flowers to make it look more fresh and delicate, and also more cohesive with the hint of blue from our color palette. It not only looked but smelt like spring at the dinner table with the abundance of flowers! The Chateau wallpaper inspired the stationery designer for the invitation suite with its delicate ornaments. We used the pattern as a link throughout the whole stationery set, from invitations to day-of stationery.

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[field title=”Favorite Design Element”]We wanted to get fun and creative with the escort card display and thought of a popcorn display for guests to enjoy as walking to the dinner area, because – who doesn’t love popcorn? Actually you could fill the cones with anything you like, which make this escort card display to easy to customize for your own wedding![/field]
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As destination wedding designers, we always try to get the most of the venue in terms of inspiration in order to get a sense of the place. You want your guests to feel they are in the South of France… It goes from the colors to the patterns, to the flowers and the smell.

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Magical Modern Garden California Wedding Overflowing With Charm

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]The wedding colors were a beautiful mix of bright pinks and mauves mixed with lots of greens and beachy neutrals. [/field]
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The wedding was very floral heavy with a modern-garden vibe. The reception overlooked the ocean in the distance, and guests enjoyed an indoor/outdoor reception experience.

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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Natalie wore a beautiful fitted v-neck gown with a floral overlay.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Bridesmaids wore blush in varying styles that complimented each individually.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Groomsmen wore black suits and ties.[/field]
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The dinner menu started the guests off with a poached pear salad followed by either a filet or seabass with wedding cake for dessert.

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The florist for this wedding was Natalie’s best friend and talented florist/owner of Penelope Pots. The wedding was beautifully designed with lush florals, from the ceremony arch to the mix of high and low centerpieces. In the reception room, greenery hung from the ceilings.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The wedding cake was a floral decorated 4 tear white cake.[/field]
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The officiant of the ceremony was the bride’s brother. A special candle lighting for the couple’s late parents was celebrated as well during the ceremony. Live cocktail music by Jonathan Salazar followed.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Natalie and Clive’s Doggie joined them at the wedding for photos and overall for fun. [/field]
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Embrace the Beauty of a Chic Glass House Wedding in Sweden That Proves Less Is More

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]White, green, small bits of lilac (lavender). [/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Kathy and André greeted their guests with an atmosphere of modern elegance. The clean lines and muted color palette of the floral arrangements and décor created a minimalistic yet refined ambiance—the wedding ceremony in a spacious, sunlit glass house with floor-to-ceiling windows.

With plenty of greenery and natural sunshine, the light filtered through and textured the couple’s suit and dress.

The room’s focal point was the sleek and modern floral decor adorned with a simple yet stunning floral arrangement.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]They took a long weekend trip away in a forest cabin with their new rescue dog, Mia. After a night of reminiscing out by the fire, André suddenly got down on one knee and proposed!
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Handmade from a Mirror stretch lace, Nathalia is a visionary gown that is loaded with elegance. The artfully placed lace panels give the illusion of structure, expertly working to contour and flatter the body. The off-the-shoulder neckline is chic and refined, proportioned perfectly by the closed in button-up back detail. [/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Orangeriet is a fantastic caterer that created a mouthwatering 4-course meal with local ingredients for everyone to feast on.

The ambition is from soil to table, and there should always be something from Norrviken’s gardens on every plate we serve.

They love food and use the ingredients with care and precise flavors to not complicate it, although they experiment with different combinations. Kathy and André liked that they forage in the garden to pick flowers and leaves to enhance their dishes.

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]We wanted something very modern and sleek to complement Norrviken which is an absolutely perfect contemporary venue. With all the clean lines and a neutral color palette, we kept the florals in a matching minimalistic style. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The couple opted out of cake and served delicious dessert instead.[/field]
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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Something Kathy and André loved was the diversity of all of their loved ones and guests – all visiting from 9 different countries.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Kathy’s hand jewelry. The ornate fresh water pearl hand pieces added an extra substance and character to her truly unique gown. [/field]
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2 Brides Photography

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The Ultimate Romantic 10 Guest Destination Wedding in Cortona, Tuscany

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Blue with gold accents. The colors Lisa and Gustav chose were white, blue (their favorite color, which they also have a lot of at home), and gold. Plus green elements from nature itself.[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Lisa and Gustav went for an organic and romantic vibe designed to transport guests to a picturesque and intimate atmosphere. Planned and designed by Weddings By Silke who came up with the perfect concept, a ceremony arch adorned with lush greenery and white flowers, and flowing fabric.

Lisa has a special fondness for blue and white patterns that appeared throughout the details. The Italian atmosphere and nature added a lot to the style itself.
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[field title=”Proposal Story”]Lisa and Gustav met at the bus stop waiting for the bus to their schools, same city, different schools. They were only 14 years old!

They had been in a committed relationship for almost six years when Gustav decided to propose. Their plans to move in together after a recent trip to Bali had them excited to start this new chapter of their lives. As they toured their new apartment, Lisa was surprised to find a stunning bouquet of roses waiting for her in the hallway. It wasn’t until Gustav asked her to read the card nestled amongst the blooms that she understood the significance of the gesture. Overwhelmed with emotion, Gustav dropped to one knee and asked for her hand in marriage. Lisa eagerly said YES, thrilled to begin this exciting new journey with her beloved. What a perfect beginning to the next phase of their lives as they combine their homes and hearts and embark on their journey as newlyweds![/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Lisa found her dress at Bröllopsbruket. They sell modern second-hand wedding gowns in beautifully decorated showrooms in Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmö, Västerås, Linköping, and Umeå. [/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Il Piino catering served up a delicious Italian cocktail menu and appertivo for the couple and their 10 guests, in the evening they served among other mouthwatering dished Steak Fiorentina, straight from the grill. [/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Lisa carried a lush mid-size bouquet with white flowers and little greenery accents decorated with white silk ribbon. It felt just quite untamed and was with her romantic vibe and style in mind.

Fineart Flowers Tuscany created the floral arrangements in a soft and ethereal look that boosted the romantic ambiance. And the table was filled with natural, organic centerpieces and candles, adding to the magical and dreamy mood.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]A simple yet elegant white cake adorned with white roses.[/field]
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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Everyone was so important at our intimate wedding, especially our grandparents. Lisa was very much looking forward to walking down the aisle with her father, who means so much to her.
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Villa Montanare

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Elevated Tropical Elegance At This Mexico Celebration

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My vision was to blend in with the nature surrounding Villa Del Oso– Golden hues with pops of blue, copper, greens, and yellows. The sunsets in Sayulita are incredible, and that was also my inspiration for bridesmaids’ dresses!

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In a phrase, “elevated tropical dinner party.” Sean and I love to travel; it’s something that we deeply connect over and enjoy doing together. When we began the planning process, we knew without a doubt that a destination wedding was in our future. We had traveled to Sayulita twice before and absolutely fell in love with the city. It’s known as “Pueblo Magico”, the magical city, and it truly is one of the most vibrant, colorful, and tasteful cities we’ve traveled to. The energy in Sayulita is very chill with a hippy surfer vibe and a true immersion into culture – it emulates the energy and feel of what we wanted to create at our wedding. Sayulita was a unique place that not many of our guests had visited before and a place that has something for everyone – it was a no-brainer! Sayulita will always be a very special place to us; we hope it has a lasting effect on our guests as well. Our wedding planner was Yazmin – Sea of Dreams, who truly feels like family now. We still communicate post-wedding & are hoping she’ll come visit us in Charleston! Yazmin made the planning process absolutely seamless. Despite planning from afar, Sean and I truly never felt worried about everything coming together! After choosing Sayulita as our wedding destination, we went to visit Yazmin in May 2022 to finalize food, florals, and other details. It was so much fun venturing around Sayulita with her to meet vendors – so many of our vendors are part of her community and true experts! We provided Yazmin with a vision of what we wanted, an elevated tropical dinner party, and she executed it impeccably. It was also really important to us that our guests get a true feel for the beauty Sayulita has to offer; we put a lot of effort into planning a week filled with good food, adventure, and quality time with one another. Overall, we couldn’t be more grateful for Yazmin, the town of Sayulita, and our guests for making it the most memorable week of our lives.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Sean and I met through a mutual friend, Brandon, who actually married us! Brandon introduced us at Shem Creek in Charleston and the rest is history. Caroline, Brandon’s wife, was matron of honor. We’re so lucky to have them both in our lives! We got engaged in November 2020 in Buenos Aires, Argentina!

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I was really decisive on the type of wedding dress I was envisioning, something that evoked contemporary minimalism and maintained timeless beauty. This Shona Joy minimal but elegant dress was a perfect fit and brought together my entire wedding look. The simplicity of the dress allowed room for a bit more of a glam hair look – makeup was dewey bronze while staying true to my natural look. As for jewelry, my parents gifted me the earrings from Sicily, which carried meaning as it is where my dad’s side of the family is from. I didn’t stick too much to tradition, but I did wear a blue bracelet of my mom’s, I loved having something special of hers to wear!

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Each bridesmaid wore a different dress; it was important to me that each dress matched and suited their style and personality!

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Sean wore a suit from Suit Supply called the light blue lazio suit by E. Thomas, Italy. He felt at home in his suit, something he could wear to celebrate all evening. For the groomsman, our ultimate vision was chic but comfortable. We went with a light linen suit and a crisp white shirt underneath. The weather ended up perfect on the wedding day, but we wanted to ensure the groomsman didn’t get too warm; they looked incredibly handsome!

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Elias Sapien catered our seated al fresco dinner overlooking the water, and the food was delicious! The first course was an arugula and avocado spicy salad. The main courses were veggie paella with milk Ali-oki, mahi mahi in three Chile crust with passion fruit Ali-oli and pineapple textures, and an Angus rib eye in a 72-hour reduction. The dessert was lava cake with berries and passion fruit mousse.

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Francisco Salazarcha created an incredible orchid bouquet for me and embraced the tropical flora in the decor.

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The ceremony felt like pure magic. The ceremony was held on the grounds of Villa Del Oso on the hilltop overlooking the ocean. We were immersed in nature, surrounded by an intimate group of loved ones, and the golden hour was commencing. Sean and I both said we had an overwhelming sense of calmness about us, almost an all-knowing feeling of serendipity.

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Looking back, we are so grateful. We feel so loved and honored to have a village of people who created such a beautiful week. From the vendors who made the space look stunning and the food taste delicious, Yazmin for planning, Anne for capturing the most incredible pictures, our friends and families for caring for us, and each other – for loving deeply.

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Anne Rhett Photography

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Veil Styles 101: Which Is Right For You?

Choosing a veil can be surprisingly difficult; mostly because you’ve probably never worn one before, so how do you know what you like? Don’t stress–we’ll break it down for you! When shopping for bridal accessories, the first question most brides ask is, “Do I need a veil?”. The short answer, no, you don’t need a veil, but do you want one? If you don’t want a veil, there are plenty of alternatives that will give you that “bride” feel, like headpieces and capes. If you’re on the fence at all, remember, your wedding day is the only day you will have an excuse to wear a veil–so we say go for it! Now, let’s talk options!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Jemma Keech

Blusher vs No Blusher

The first decision you’ll need to make is whether or not you want a blusher. A blusher is the layer of the veil that drapes over your face. Traditionally, it is worn over the face for the walk down the aisle and then the Father of the Bride (or whoever is walking with you) lifts the blusher and reveals your face for the first time during the ceremony. This look is perfect for formal weddings, especially if your ceremony is being held at a religious venue. If you’re all about the pomp and circumstance, go big–go blusher.

If your ceremony is fairly informal and a blusher seems a little over-the-top for you, there are plenty of veil options that don’t have blushers. You can also wear a veil with the blusher flipped back instead of draped over your face, creating a tiered look.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Mallory Dawn Photography

Styles

1. Traditional

Most veils are made from tulle (pronounced tool), a lightweight sheer net, that is gathered and sewn to a comb. Combs can be wide or narrow and the volume of the veil depends on how much tulle has been gathered into the comb. Some veils are simple and drape close to the head while others are full and voluminous. Traditional veils are the most versatile; they pair great with any gown whether it is minimalist or ornate.

PHOTOGRAPHER | Ether & Smith

2. Mantilla-style

Inspired by Spanish Mantillas, these are simple veils that are trimmed in delicate scalloped lace and fastened to a comb. They are traditionally worn over the shoulders as well. Mantilla-style veils add a romantic old-world feel. They pair great with lace gowns and vintage venues.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Mallory Dawn Photography

3. Embellished

Veils can be simple or they can be ornately embellished with lace, embroidery, silk petals, or beading. It just depends on how much of a statement you want to make. We recommend a simple veil if your gown is ornate and vice versa–the simpler the gown the more adventurous you can be with your veil.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Jemma Keech

4. Juliette Cap

A Juliette cap veil covers the crown of the head and is fastened on either side by small combs or pins. It is often decorated with lace or other appliqués on the cap. Juliette cap veils add a boho feel to a look and pair nicely with flowy lace and net gowns.

BRIDE | Kate Moss VEIL | John Galliano

5. Birdcage

When you think birdcage veil, think old-Hollywood. These are the small, sexy veils that are made from a Russian net that is delicate and has larger holes than traditional tulle veils. They can be worn on top of the head or across the eyes for a dramatic touch.

RETAILER | JCrew VEIL | Twigs and Honey

Veil Length

Like gowns, veils come in a variety of lengths. Currently, most veils range from elbow-length to cathedral.

Things to Consider When Selecting Veil Length

Train Length- When choosing a veil length, consider the length of the train on your gown. If you have a long train, we recommend choosing a veil that is slightly longer–this adds dramatic effect as you walk down the aisle. If you have a train with ornate detail, consider a shorter veil so it doesn’t get covered up. The ideal veil compliments your gown, so choose the features that you want to highlight and make sure that your veil doesn’t hide them.

Size of Venue- Another thing to consider when choosing a length for your veil is your venue. If you’re getting married in a chapel, it’s easy–go with a Chapel-length veil. But not all venues make it that simple. In general, your veil should reflect the size of your venue. If you’re getting married in an intimate setting, your veil should be shorter than if you were getting married in a grand cathedral.

Popular Lengths

1. Elbow- Approximately 30” in length and hangs just around the elbow. This length is flirty making it perfect for a more casual ceremony and venue.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Sposto Photography

2. Fingertip- Approximately 40” in length and hangs near the fingertips. This is a subtle veil length that pairs well with a gown that has an ornately embellished train.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Alyssa Nikole Photography

3. Waltz- Approximately 54” in length and falls just above the floor (depending on your height). This veil length pairs well with a gown that has a modest train.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Feather & Twine

4. Chapel- Approximately 90” in length, this veil should be paired with a gown with a slightly shorter train. This length is perfect for formal yet intimate venues.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Julie Cate Photography

5. Cathedral- At approximately 120” in length, this veil is by far the most dramatic. It should be longer than the train on your gown and is perfect for grand, over-the-top, venues.

PHOTOGRAPHER | Ledia Tashi Photography

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Mallory Dawn Photography

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Ledia Tashi Photography

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Blue & White ‘Ginger Jar’ Inspired Summer Soirée

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Blue & White[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]A ‘something blue point of view’ was thoughtfully crafted around inspiration from the bride’s personal collection of beautiful blue and white pottery, also known as ‘ginger jars’. Each shade of blue was represented with intention whether it be the hand painted watercolor designs or soft hydrangea blue envelopes in the stationery suite; blue sapphires were incorporated on the Bride’s wedding band and the groom and groomsmen wore navy blue suites.
Bows were also thoughtfully incorporated in the details of the day. White linen bridesmaid dresses complemented with bows on the shoulders effortlessly matched the white bows on the ceremony booklets. The flower girl dresses had big bow sashes, the Bride’s second ‘dancing’ dress made a statement with a bow in the back and there were even bows on the brides heels![/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]Max and Claire grew up in the same hometown. With Claire’s childhood home at the bottom of the local Oswego Lake County Club golf course and Max’s at the top, their mutual family friend circles and close vicinity brought them together at a young age. When Max left private school and began attending the Junior High in town, their parents were reconnected at back-to-school night and scheming on how they could get the two together in the future. Fast forward to their freshman year of high school, Max and Claire officially ‘met’ through their mutual friends. What started as an innocent high school relationship ultimately withstood the test of time & change and lead to marriage 10 years later! The two share many mutual hobbies such as Summers spent boating on their local lake or winters skiing in the Oregon mountains. In January of 2021, Max proposed during their annual trip to Timberline lodge on Mount Hood with the perfect backdrop of blue skies and a white snowy mountain top. Just 18 months later they would tie the knot at the very Country Club golf course that connected their childhood homes all these years.[/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]The bride wore a strapless silk Monique Lhuillier ballgown – Bliss BL20119.[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bridesmaids wore summery white linen dresses with bows on the shoulders from Diish.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The groom and groomsmen wore navy blue suits tying in with the overall color palette.[/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Dinner was a fresh Oregon Summer inspired meal with vegetables from the Country Club garden. And drinks included ice cold lavender lemonade upon arrival to the ceremony and customized couple’s cocktails later in the evening – Hers: an Aperol Spritz with a blue and white stripe straw, an ode to the upcoming honeymoon. His: a Gin & Tonic with extra lime (the Groom’s go-to cocktail) or Theirs: Ginger Yuzu Margaritas![/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Blue delphiniums lined the ceremony aisle, vibrant hydrangeas cascaded down the wedding cake, head table and staircase banister. There were also unexpected ‘pink moments’ with a table of pink florals in the reception entry and a pink bridal bouquet. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]Classic Swiss dot 3 tiered cake from local favorite, Papa Haydn, adorned with cascading blue hydrangeas [/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]The Bride has an impressive collection of blue and white ginger jars. The beautiful pottery was the décor focal point of the day, utilized as inspiration in the details suite, event décor accents and floral vases.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]The bride’s younger sister (& MOH) is an extremely talented artist. It was important to the couple to incorporate her watercolor work in the details. From the customized venue painting on the invitation cover, to the envelope liner in the save the date and the wedding party place cards… her hand painted designs were one of a kind.
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A Romantic Flower-Forward Virginia Wedding at Estate at River Run

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The wedding colors were pale pink, lavender, white, and pale blue.

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Caroline and Ryan knew that when they got engaged, they wanted their wedding to be anything but traditional. They desired their guests to experience an interactive, luxurious, gala-styled wedding inspired by the TV show, Bridgerton. After touring the Estate at River Run, they knew it was the perfect place to make all their Bridgerton dreams come true. After booking their venue, it became apparent to Caroline and Ryan that they needed the expertise of a seasoned designer and wedding planner to bring their wedding dreams to life. They chose to work with Amy Polezhaev of Amy Marie Events. Amy and her team began designing every detail of the wedding, from the furniture, flatware, menu, signage, and florals. The detail was carefully curated with the bride and groom’s taste and desires in mind. Amy and her team directed Caroline and Ryan to the perfect vendors to bring each design element to life. From the caricature artist (one of their first dates) to the hand-made chocolate tasting room, Italian coffee cart, pool-side cocktails, and the night ending with a jazz-inspired reception with music provided by one of Virginia’s finest jazz bands, Good Shot Judy.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Ryan proposed to Caroline on December 18, 2021. It was very important to Ryan that the proposal be a surprise. Since he suspected Caroline might expect he would propose during the holiday season, he spent the two weekends prior to the proposal taking her to places she would guess he might propose and then….. not proposing. On the day of the actual proposal, Ryan took Caroline to dinner at one of their favorite date places, The Lobby Bar, in the Quirk Hotel. After dinner, he suggested they drive around The Fan in Richmond and look at Christmas lights before going to their favorite dessert spot, Shyndigz. Caroline kept wanting to stop and look at more and more Christmas lights and almost suggested they skip dessert and head home. Fortunately, she didn’t because two of their friends had set up a table at Shyndigz for Ryan’s proposal with fairy lights, a bottle of champagne, and Caroline’s favorite cake (Blackberry Lime) that read, “Caroline, will you marry me?”. When Caroline and Ryan finally arrived at Shyndigz, Ryan pointed to the lit-up table and said they should go check it out and see what the cake said. Caroline was so completely caught off guard and surprised that she initially didn’t even understand the proposal was for her! After she quickly figured out it was, Ryan got down on one knee and asked her to marry him. Of course, the answer was yes!

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The bride wore two dresses for her wedding day. For her ceremony dress, the bride wore a ballgown from Maggie Sottero Designs & Midgley for a romantic, fairy-tale look. Before the choreographed first dance, the bride changed into her second dress from Watters Designs, a lightweight, tea-length gown perfect for dancing.

[/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bridesmaids wore dresses in the style of their choice, in the colors dusty rose, vintage mauve, and dusk, from Azazie. [/field]
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The groom wore a slim fit, peak lapel tuxedo in black from Generation Tux for a classic, timeless look.

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Being a “foodie” couple, the bride and groom wanted their guests to experience a sophisticated yet warm and welcoming menu. Rather than a seated dinner, they envisioned guests mingling and exploring the various floors and ballrooms of the estate while getting to taste foods that they both loved. They chose to work with Everyday Gourmet, a catering company in Richmond, Virginia, that created an exquisite menu that was prepared freshly for each guest by a chef that boasted Lobster Mac and Cheese, Lemon Oregano Chicken, and Seared Red Snapper Puttanesca. The stunning fireplace mantels and antique sideboards were decorated with freshly made macarons by Brick House Bakery and dainty bite-sized desserts by Louisa’s Homemades. The couple even hired a local chocolatier to create the most delicious chocolates made with the finest ingredients imported from France.

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Caroline and Ryan dreamt of the Estate at River Run being covered with lush florals and cozy sitting areas. So, when they met with their floral and event designer, Amy Polezhaev of Amy Marie Events they all began dreaming of a design that would utilize every area of the Estate and create statement pieces that would highlight the beautiful springs that occur in Virginia. Amy knew immediately that in order to have the freshest and most spectacular florals, she would purchase almost all of the flowers locally from small floral farms and co-ops like Wind Haven Floral Farm and River City Exchange, both located in the capital of Virginia. She designed every estate area with the room’s aesthetic in mind to highlight the already beautiful and charming estate. Particularly in the Wedgewood Ballroom, the Estate’s premier Ballroom, she and her team covered the balcony overlooking the ballroom with cascading wisteria to complement the bride and groom’s private dinner table below. On the lower terrace, she designed tables and a center bar covered in billowing florals and candlelight to keep guests coming back to the area throughout the evening. Each floral centerpiece, bud vase, and ceremony ground florals were filled with Caroline and Ryan’s favorite flower, Ranunculus.

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The wedding cake was made by Louisa’s Homemades. The bride and groom love citrus-flavored desserts, so the wedding cake was a lemon sponge cake with raspberry filling and lemon buttercream. The cake was three-tiered and decorated with smooth white buttercream, blush pink, lavender cascading sugar flowers, and white sugar pearls. The cake was elegantly displayed at the reception, surrounded by a lush wreath of spring flowers.

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The couple chose to display the blending of their two families by incorporating a unique moment within their wedding ceremony. Both the bride and groom’s families gifted one another a bottle of wine before the wedding ceremony. During the wedding ceremony, each family partook in the gifted bottle of wine together as one united family. It was a unique and memorable moment for each family and the bride and groom to display the love, generosity, and blending of their two families.

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The bride and groom have two very loved, Flemish giant rabbits named Ciri and Henry that they wanted to incorporate into their wedding reception and decor. To do this, they included sketches of their rabbits in their bar signage and for the guest book, and guests were invited to sign a beautiful coffee table book of rabbit illustrations. Signature drinks were also named after their beloved bunnies. Guests were greeted with a large champagne wall, wallpapered in a beautiful floral wallpaper, where they were encouraged to sign the guest book and grab a glass of champagne to enjoy as they walked down the path to the ceremony site. Once guests arrived at the terrace, they checked in and were given their ceremony seating assignment.

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The couple both wore accessories as part of their wedding attire to pay homage to loved ones who couldn’t attend the wedding. The bride wore a dinner ring, a gift from her grandmother that once belonged to her great-grandmother. The groom wore a watch that belonged to his father.

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Ryan and Caroline’s first vacation away together was in 2018 to Norway and Iceland. While enjoying the last night of their vacation in Iceland, the couple watched the northern lights and fell even more in love while dancing alone in their Airbnb cabin. To honor this special moment, the bride walked down the aisle to the song Staralfur by Sigur Ros, performed by a live string trio headed by Treesa Gold.

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A Colorful Celebration of Chinese and Spanish Cultures at La Venta Inn

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”The Inspiration”]

We love seeing people from a multitude of backgrounds find love, and when two people from different cultures find themselves on the wedding planning journey, we know that they are looking for ways to incorporate who they are separately into who they will be together. This Spanish Chinese fusion wedding was designed by planner Sarah Wang who specializes in Chinese American weddings and is Taiwanese herself. Her goal is to deliver well though-out designs that not only honor the Chinese culture but also partners with other cultures and traditions as she often works with couples that come from different backgrounds. The beautiful grounds and architecture of the Spanish Villa, La Venta Inn, served as the perfect backdrop and inspiration for this Spanish Chinese editorial.

[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Red is a prominent color for Chinese weddings as they signify happiness, fortune and success. This editorial blends red with an array of colors including fuchsia, burgundy, peach, blush, cream, and gold. These colors paired with Chinoiserie and Spanish Tile tie in the modern and fresh fusion feel of this design.[/field]
[field title=”The Venue”]The venue, La Venta Inn, is a historic Spanish Villa with breathtaking ocean views nestled in the hills of Palos Verdes Estates. [/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Our bride wore three different gowns for this editorial, a modern wedding cheongsam with intricate lace details by East Meets Dress for the Tea Ceremony – a dramatic textured tulle ball gown by Martina Liana – in a blush hue that perfectly complimented the florals and scenery, and modern puff shoulder satin “reception” dress by LeBlanc that added femininity and glamour.[/field]
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As a fusion wedding, the main goal was to incorporate details that felt special to both Chinese and Spanish cultures. The Chinese double happiness symbol was modernized with a circular design and paired with other elements such as Spanish Tile, Orange Blossoms Fortune Cookies and Chinoiserie patterned fans and vases. We also incorporated foods that hold a special meaning in the Chinese culture; for example, the pomegranate with its many seeds symbolizes fertility, abundance, posterity and virtuous offspring, the longan fruit, which means prosperity and wealth, the tangerine, which means good luck. If you look closely, the blue Spanish tile vellum band on the invitation is the same design on the cake and is inspired by the Spanish tile decorating La Venta Inn’s courtyard fountain. The double happiness symbol is always used at Chinese weddings. The symbol signifies two people/families coming together as one, it’s double the happiness. The character itself consists of two “happy” characters. This symbol is also on top of the fireplace mantel in our tea ceremony scene in subtle champagne gold color. The place settings were also designed to perfection; the paper used for the place holder fortune cookies have an orange blossom design. Orange trees are so prevalent in Spain, it is no surprise that the orange blossom are the traditional Spanish wedding flower. They represent joy and happiness for the newly married couple, and are also symbolic of fertility. This orange blossom pattern was also used as the envelope liner, a feature we credit to the fabulous paper designer on the team. Under the fortune cookie, a menu card that reads “We’re so fortunate to have you,” adds a playful vibe to the luxury feel of the place setting. The seating chart sign is also a play on words that says “We’re your biggest fans” with a shelf full of chinoiserie fans displayed as the backdrop for the table assignment signs, which match our table number. We incorporated fans as the seating chart, but also replaced the traditional bridal bouquet with a flower filled fan as both the Chinese and Spanish culture have a beautiful history with fans. We incorporated tea sets that are not traditional Chinese tea sets to incorporate the Spanish floral design in our color palette of peach, blush, and red. Red envelopes with cash and gold jewelry are very common gifts parents give the couple during the tea ceremony. Additionally, the bride held a hand-painted fan during the tea ceremony that was brought over from Spain in 2022, it is a unique art piece from one of the remaining street vendors in Madrid.

[/field]
[field title=”Favorite Design Element”]Our team’s favorite design element is the floral fan! It embodies both the traditional beauty of Chinese culture and the passionate Flamenco Spanish vibe. It was a pleasure to tie in both cultures with this one detail.

Our florist did an amazing job designing the fan with real flowers to add vibrancy and texture, each flower was hand glued onto a traditional Chinese hand fan with dark red bamboo frames. It makes us feel like celebrating!![/field]
[field title=”Tips To Pull Off The Look”]We highly encourage any blended couple to be open to smart and intuitive design; allowing both of their backgrounds and cultures to be celebrated. By blending both of their cultures, their guests can enjoy what they already know, but also what they don’t – and in the process find the beauty that connects the couple on a deeper level.[/field]
[field title=”DIY Moments”][/field]
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Planning a Gilmore Girls Inspired Wedding? Here Are 10 Must-Have Details!

Y2K is coming back [in style] with a vengeance. Bucket hats, low-rise jeans…we see you. But thankfully, it’s not all cringe! Some of our fave sitcom sweethearts are getting some well-deserved love–oh, yeah we’re talking Gilmore Girls! If you’ve never seen it, babe, we’re jealous! There are 7 seasons, and with a wedding to plan, you’ll need a good binger for those late-night planning sessions. If you’ve already seen them all…it’s about time for a rewatch. And while we’re walking down memory lane, we can’t help by dream about what a wedding in Stars Hollow might look like today. From a Luke’s Diner coffee bar to modern florals staring Lorelai’s favorite blooms, here are 10 subtle wedding details that EVERY Gilmore Girls fan will totally get.

Ceremony at the Gazebo

As any Gilmore Girls fan knows, marrying in the town gazebo is the only way to go.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Justin DeMutiis Photography

Yellow Daisies

Lorelai’s favorite flower would definitely be involved in the day.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Audra Starr Photography

The Blush Pink Dress

Take cues from Lorelai’s soft, blush pink dress…remember “the one” she found with Sookie but never got to wear?

PHOTOGRAPHY | Alice Ahn Photography

Tented Reception in the Town

Because a ceremony in the gazebo would obviously be followed by a big tented reception in the town square.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Rachael Kazmier Photography

A Luke’s Diner Food Truck

We like to think Luke would be behind all the yummy food served at the reception.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Cameron & Kelly Studio

Coffee Bar for Guests

A Gilmore Girl has to stay caffeinated!

PHOTOGRAPHY | Peaches and Mint

Paul Anka Appearance

You better believe Paul Anka (the furry one) would make an appearance down the aisle.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Allen Tsai Photography

Small Town Setting

Stars Hollow proves small-town weddings can be chock-full of charm.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Rebecca Sigety

The Local Live Band

Lane’s band “Hep Alien” might not be available, but local live music is a total must.

PHOTOGRAPHY | CourtneyPecorino

French Fries For The Road

A true Gilmore-inspired late-night treat for send off? We say skip the cake pops and go with Luke’s Diner-style fries.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Abby Jiu

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Rachael Kazmier Photography

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Petit Bouquet

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Autumnal Garden-Style Wedding in Virginia

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]The bride desired a classic, simplistic design aesthetic so a neutral foundational palette of ivory tones was chosen. A soft gray/blue hue made up another large portion of the color palette, a favorite of both the bride and the groom. Then, accents of blush pink and golden autumnal colors were layered into the design to incorporate the natural foliage of Octobers in rural Virginia into the palette.
[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Intentional. Lucid. Timeless. Comfortable. Refined. Romantic. These were the key words that design team, Jamie Lynn Signature Weddings, used to capture the overall vibe the couple wanted their guests to experience. The design was inspired by the couple’s love for nature and the outdoors, and a goal to blend the bride’s minimalism style with the groom’s desire for some vibrancy and unexpected elements. After creating the color palette based on the couple’s preferences, the vision for florals and design details easily fell into place.
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[field title=”Proposal Story”]From the bride: “Daniel surprised me and took me to our favorite winery in Charlottesville, Brent Manor Vineyards, which is a small local winery owned by a sweet couple. He proposed there and then all of our friends came to celebrate after. We served the wine from their winery at our wedding!”[/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]The bride wore an A-line satin gown, Mikaella, by Paloma Blanca which she found at Raleigh-based shop, Maggi Bridal. She completed her bridal look with a cathedral veil and white Manolo Blahnik closed-toe pumps.
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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]The bride opted to have all of her ladies wear the same style of tulle floor-length gown by Wtoo by Watters in the steely blue shade of “French Blue.” Bella Bridesmaids in Richmond, VA worked with the bride and her wedding designer to select the perfect dress style to complement a lucid, romantic wedding design aesthetic and our color palette. The tulle skirts created the soft, ethereal movement that only added to the romantic vibe of the wedding day.
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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]The groomsmen were dressed in black slim-fit suits to coordinate with the groom’s custom black tux, all with matching black bow ties. The groom’s initials were embroidered on his dress shirt cuffs.
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]During cocktail hour, the culinary team from caterer MOSAIC passed a variety of bite-sized hors d’oeuvres such as sriracha honey chicken meatballs, mini spanakopitas and sweet potato country ham biscuits. Guests at the bar were offered a wide variety of Virginia wines, beers and seltzers. The couple made sure to source some wine for their wedding day from the Virginia winery where they got engaged too! At the reception, guests sat down to a first course salad with a lemon vinaigrette, followed by a plated meal consisting of a seasonal duo of tomato basil chicken and herb roasted salmon filet served with roasted red potatoes and broccolini. Guests that had opted for a vegetarian meal were served butternut squash ravioli with brown butter sage sauce. Once dinner had wined down and the couple cut the cake, servers passed slices of the Ukrop’s marble pound cake with vanilla buttercream and the couple’s signature espresso martinis for dessert.
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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]The couple hired Virginia-based wedding designer and full service planner, Jamie Lynn Signature Weddings, to execute the vision for their wedding. Upon touring the venue for the first time, the main design goal became creating a more intimate, comfortable atmosphere within a very large, open space with tall vaulted ceilings. To accomplish this, the designer brought in several twelve-foot tall trees from a local nursery, added bistro lighting across the space, and collaborated with the floral designer to add statement arrangements throughout the room. The gray/blue hue in the wedding color palette was brought into the reception space in the form of velvet linens to create a sense of warmth and depth. The flowers were arranged in a garden-style manner by the floral team, A Morgan Floral. The arrangements consisted of fall foliage, vibrant greenery, cream blooms in varieties such as butterfly ranunculus and garden roses, and accents of pink and mauve with the incorporation of tulips and roses. Other accents included hydrangeas and berries. The ceremony focal point was the lush, yet not overpowering, floral arch which was repurposed to surround the cake table during the reception. Large white urns at the end of the aisle were transformed by appearing on some tabletops to balance with the scale of the ballroom post-ceremony. The 24-foot long head table for the bridal party was adorned with 3 large arrangements and a series of taper candles and votives in the shades “Mauvelous” from Creative Candles and “Antique Beige” from Yummi Candles. The place settings consisted of floral salad plates and classic gold-rimmed dinner plates with sleek gold flatware and cut glass water goblets. The dance floor was flanked by four of the tall trees and bistro lights which created a romantic canopy overhead as guests danced the night away in front of a 9-piece live band.

The couple wanted to ensure that they loved their ceremony rain plan as much as their “Plan A” outdoor ceremony concept. With careful planning in advance, the backup option became a ceremony space that the couple was just as excited about, and thank goodness for that since heavy rainfall ended up spoiling the outdoor ceremony plans. The ceremony was moved into the reception ballroom, requiring a room flip during cocktail hour. A large white drape installation blocked the cocktail hour space during the ceremony and created a romantic backdrop. The drape was designed to be pulled back to usher guests through to cocktail hour once the ceremony was over, closed for the ballroom flip, and then reopened by being tied back with velvet blue sashes to welcome guests back into the space for dinner. The wall of drapery was on the opposite end of the ballroom from the cake table installation with the floral ceremony arch, which balanced out the room and made it feel complete.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The couple’s four-tier wedding cake was created by their favorite local Richmond, VA bakery: Ukrop’s. The design of the cake itself was kept minimalistic with a smooth buttercream texture in a taupe hue and no embellishments so that the addition of cascading, fresh florals on the wedding day could be the highlight. Florist, A Morgan Floral, adorned the cake with lush blooms in the same handpicked garden vibe of the rest of the wedding florals to create a focal point in the spacious reception ballroom. The cake sat atop a blue velvet linen and silk runner, and was framed by the couple’s ceremony arch that was repurposed to create this reception statement piece.
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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]Due to heavy rain the day before and the morning of the wedding, the couple chose to proceed with their much-loved rain plan and held their ceremony inside the venue’s large, vaulted ballroom. The bride was escorted down the aisle by her father to “A Thousand Years” played by a live violin/cello duo. A close friend of the couple was the officiant, adding an air of comfort and ease to the ceremony. The Apache Wedding Blessing and the heartwarming poem: “How Falling in Love is Like Owning a Dog” were readings selected by the couple. The latter especially brought a smile to everyone with the words: “Love makes messes. Love leaves you little surprises here and there. Love needs lots of cleaning up after. Sometimes you just want to get love fixed. Sometimes love just wants to go out for a nice long walk…” Immediately following the ceremony, the white drapery was tied back for guests to venture to cocktail hour while the ceremony space was flipped for reception setup.
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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]The signature cocktail of the night was an Espresso Martini garnished with fresh coffee beans and accompanied by cocktail napkins with an image of the couple’s dog hand painted by the groom’s grandfather. The couple opted to serve these with dessert once the cake was cut.
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[field title=”Special Detail #2″]As guests bid the couple farewell at the end of the evening, metallic confetti streamers popped overhead and rained down on the couple as they left their reception.
It was important to the bride to have a statement seating chart, but one that was still in keeping with the minimalistic aesthetic that she loves. The wedding design team, in coordination with stationer Sara Lane Design, created a large freestanding display with oval escort cards tied to the board with luxurious silk ribbon and finished off with fresh florals and a custom wood monogram.
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A Colorful Mid-Century Modern Wedding at Claremont Club and Spa Resort

Get ready to swoon over the most fabulous wedding filled with French-inspired detailing. The vibrant explosion of color from breathtaking floral installations inspired by the couple’s favorite painting, designed by Amy Burke Designs, will make your jaw drop. Details planned by Simply Elegant by Diana add an extra touch of elegance and sophistication to the whole affair. And the best part? Every magical moment has been expertly captured by talented photographer Blue Note Weddings, ensuring that each frame is a work of art. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of beauty and joy like no other inside the full gallery.

Abigail and Harrison’s classic mid-century modern wedding graced us with a colorful landscape of a floral fantasy. The wedding took place in the iconic tower at the Claremont Club and Spa Resort in Berkeley California. Impeccably planned to perfection by Diana of Simply Elegant by Diana, this above and beyond beautifully styled wedding was surrounded by sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay and the Berkley Hills. The couple said their I do’s in a glamorous fashion recreating a modern-day love story with an old fashion flare. With combined gathered inspiration from Woody Allen’s “Midnight in Paris” meets “The Marvelous Mrs. Maizel” the wedding was an amalgam of 50’s & 60’s meets swanky french vibe. The design of their florals was incredibly by Amy Burke, of Amy Burke Designs, was inspired by their favorite painting “The Artist’s Garden at Giverny’ by Claude Monet.” The tower where the ceremony was held was filled with an abundance of florals and vines that climbed the tower walls and arches, giving off a painterly French elegance. Amy Burke and her incredible team worked tirelessly in creating very intricate designs of cascading flower builds throughout the day. The sculptural designs in the tower filled the intimate space with lots of different shades of maple and vine greenery with added touches of blush and bright pops of red. The cappuccino roses and light tangerine Dalias added the perfect balance of bright and soft tones. Abigail and Harrison met in a History class at UC Berkeley in 2017. Harrison had sat in a few rows ahead of Abigail and she had found herself staring at him all semester! The adorable pair actually reconnected after they matched on Bumble later that summer. They eded up on a first date and became inseparable from the start when their love story began! Harrison proposed to Abigail on her favorite bridge on the UC Berkeley campus over Strawberry Creek. On one knee, he presented to her his grandmother’s heirloom family ring encrusted with diamonds that had been in their family for generations. Then! He surprised her with the Tower Suite at the Claremont, where champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries awaited them paired with that breath taking view!

From the florist… “When Abbey and Harrison decided to plan a micro wedding in addition to their postponed larger celebration for October 2021, they chose the Tower room in the Claremont Club and Spa Resort because of their ties to UC Berkeley. In addition to both the bride and groom attending UCB for college, Abbey’s family had hosted several other important moments and intimate parties at the hotel, and specifically in the Tower room/suite itself. So, it felt very fitting that they would choose this as the location for their important, very intimate wedding celebration for themselves and their families. We collectively had been so inspired designing their larger event that we all knew we were going to need to come up with something particularly magical and special for this smaller but no less as important event. Both Abbey and Harrison love to travel, and when designing the look for this event, we decided that we wanted to it to feel like a combination of a European garden and walking on the banks of the Seine through their favorite Parisian street markets. So, we chose a mixture of varying shades of blush, fuchsia, plum and green with pops of bright blue for the Tower ceremony, creating an overgrown garden space that appeared to surround the intimate gathering of friends and family. Garden roses, ranunculus, bougainvillea, delphinium, dahlias, snapdragons, violets and Queen Anne’s lace were arranged into hedges that wrapped around every enclave, climaxing into a loose archway that framed the bride and groom at the front of the ceremony. Parisian-style market chairs and tables filled with cheese and vintage glass cloches covering macaroons added to our overall ceremony décor. When designing the reception space, the couple wanted to have a slightly looser, more family-oriented styling, with both color palette and floral choices that reflected this quieter mood. We chose to fill the dining room’s deck with luxurious velvet linens, cut crystal stemware and a combination of blush and caramel colored blooms and candles that added to the view of the Berkeley city skyline. Knowing that the couple are also lovers of history and language, we surprised Abbey and Harrison with touches of French vintage elements throughout the space, tucked into table décor and on lounge tables that they could discover as the evening progressed. This included glass cloches covering vintage books of French poetry, history and authentic love letters from French travelers. Small dishes of mandarin oranges were also tucked throughout the table décor, as a nod to the groom’s family’s orchards. Loose blooms strung from the underside of stationary umbrellas covering the reception area, stings of market lights, and a vintage-inspired set of velvet lounge furniture completed the dining area décor.”

Abigail wore a sophisticated satin princess ball gown with a full A lined skirt by Maggie Sottero. The gown had the perfect amount of jeweled accents and was paired with a perfect block heel. Harrison looked dapper in his white tux and black bow tie. His retro sterling silver starred cufflinks were the perfect accent to the classic look. Following their ceremony guests enjoyed light horderves and champagne as the couple proceeded for their portraits in the tower then around the gorgeous treelined property. Of course with a view like that we had to be sure to get some stunning drone shots, it was very fairytale like. The Claremont Club and Spa Resort so graciously opened the infamous Hilary Tenzig Room where the couple were invited to the private space for some couples portraits. Named after the first climbers to reach the summit of Mt. Everest, the historical room was filled with mid-century mod decor and incredible paintings that hung on the blue walls. Abigail and Harrison were quite a pair savvy in style and sophistication. They both shared a mutual love for for all things retro, really good champagne and the classic well known author Victor Hugo which made an appearance in his books on the sweetheart’s table along with their love letters written to one another in French amidst the table runner of florals and accents of tangerines in the vintage glass bowls. Under small umbrellas that sheltered the tables from the weather, chandelier-like florals hung for the umbrella tops adding more floral extravagance to the private dining experience. After dinner, the couple cut their gold starred glam cake and danced to their favorite songs of the ’50s and ’60s.

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Simply Elegant by Diana

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French Picnic-Style Backyard Wedding in Montauk

Relaxed elegance meets cozy, casual vibes at this Montauk wedding. It’s a celebration overflowing with fun and style, where every detail planned by Danielle Caldwell Events is designed to make you feel right at home. Guests gathered around low tables adorned with beautiful linens and cushions, and lined with chic floral arrangements designed by H Bloom. All in white films artfully captured the joy of the day in incredible imagery,take a closer look inside the full gallery.

Nestled in the picturesque town of Montauk, this enchanting event exudes an effortless charm that captivates both the eye and the soul. As the sun sets over the rolling waves, guests find themselves seated at low tables adorned with plush pillows, inviting them to unwind and immerse themselves in the joyful ambiance. This gathering radiates with an abundance of fun and style, where every detail has been thoughtfully curated to create a truly unforgettable experience. Get ready to embark on a journey where luxury meets comfort, and where memories are woven amidst laughter and love.

Haley and Timothy met at a bar in Montauk. They loved the area so much that they wanted to get married there! Before their ceremony, Haley and Tim handwrote their vows and read them to each other in private. In the shade of a centuries-old tree, they grasped each other’s hands and shared their promises. We love a “first touch” as an alternative to the popular first look! The smile on Tim’s face, when he saw Haley walking down the aisle, was all the proof we needed that they made the right choice for them. Their ceremony, beneath a natural wood arbor, was short but sweet. Destination Haus decorated the area with rattan rugs carpeted the aisle, while clear vases filled with pampas grass lined either side. The minimal, earthy color palette was perfect for the simplicity of the backyard setting. Afterward, Haley and Tim trekked to the Montauk Lighthouse with their photographer! Haley’s grandfather loved lighthouses, so she was committed to taking photos there to honor his memory. She and Tim always smile and laugh together, and All in White captured their dynamic beautifully. Haley gathered inspiration from blogs for the couple’s reception design. She picked Destination Haus because she loved their design and overall vibe. Haley didn’t want a wedding, but Tim convinced her that she’d want their loved ones with them which he was right! She wanted the wedding to feel more like a backyard celebration with their closest family and friends than an actual ceremonial wedding. Which is why they chose the direction with DH with more of a picnic style laid-back feel.

Destination Haus arranged a low table draped in white linens and surrounded it with green–and-white patterned cushions so guests could get cozy as they ate. Then, they arranged a whimsical tablescape with sage green chargers, gold cutlery, and white candles. Bud vases with anemones and garden roses that looked freshly picked were the perfect finishing touch. The couple and their guests dined on seasonal fare from Montauk Catering Co as dusk fell. The warm, family-style atmosphere was just as Haley and Tim had pictured it!

From the bride… A fun side story is that we met at a bar called The Point and had our after-party there where we met! The bouncer that randomly introduced us to each other was actually at the bar that night after our wedding! It was a special ending to the evening. Lastly, I reached out to so many Airbnbs, and Aviva was one of the few that actually said yes! It was such a blessing. A huge thing for us is that we wanted to get married in the town where we met and at a location that wasn’t a wedding factory. We wanted it intimate and special, and Aviva’s house was magically perfect.

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Old World Spanish Elegance Meets Modern Style in the Rolling Hills of Ojai

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”The Inspiration”]Inspired by the beauty of a spanish sunset Sadie and Tyler’s effortlessly beautiful wedding, married old world spanish elegance with modern sentiment.

Sadie and Tyler got married during the chaos and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, which at first prevented them from having a wedding celebration. Finally when they were able to have this celebration it was an intimate yet epic affair.

Vibrant sunset colors were woven throughout their wedding and floral design, and perfectly matched the Spanish architecture, and surrounding orchards of their wedding venue. Floral’s were filled with shades of citrus yellow, terracotta pinks, dusty peaches, and burnt sienna orange.

Just how the sunset turns its surroundings to dark shadows, accent hues of black were used in their design to juxtapose, and bring out the vibrancy of the sunset colors. Black is also a common color for catholic spanish brides signifying the bride’s commitment and devotion to her groom “until death do us part.” On the table modern onyx flatware, black shantung napkins, and an intricate black design on the plates created a beautiful black contrast to the sunset colored floral. The 18th century plates were Babele black by Richard Ginori. On top of the plates were beautiful black and white, handmade menus that mirrored the elegant pattern of the surrounding plate.[/field]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Shades of citrus yellow, terracotta pinks, dusty peaches, and burnt sienna orange.[/field]
[field title=”The Venue”]Sadie and Tyler’s celebration took place on a private spanish style villa, nestled on 40 acres of private citrus orchards and vineyards, overlooking the entire Ojai California valley. The colors of the surrounding lemon and orange orchards, terra-cotta tile roof, and adobe accents perfectly fit with the color scheme of their day.

Not only did the orange orchards match with the color scheme, but also the Spanish vibe. For Spaniards, orange blossoms represent joy and happiness for the newly married couple. They’re also symbolic of fertility. [/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]For the ceremony Sadie wore a stunning Ines Di Santo gown with intricate lace detailing and a cathedral length train. For her reception, she changed into a show-stopping Leah Da Gloria gown with puffy sleeves, high neck, and beautiful skirt that perfectly gathered in the front to show off her beautiful long legs. For the cake cutting and after party Sadie changed into a short chic Ines Di Santo gown.[/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Vibrant sunset colors were woven throughout their wedding and floral design, and perfectly matched the Spanish architecture, and surrounding orchards of their wedding venue.

Just how the sunset turns its surroundings to dark shadows, accent hues of black were used in their design to juxtapose, and bring out the vibrancy of the sunset colors. Black is also a common color for catholic spanish brides signifying the bride’s commitment and devotion to her groom “until death do us part.” On the table modern onyx flatware, black shantung napkins, and an intricate black design on the plates created a beautiful black contrast to the sunset colored floral. The 18th century plates were Babele black by Richard Ginori. On top of the plates were beautiful black and white, handmade menus that mirrored the elegant pattern of the surrounding plate.[/field]
[field title=”Favorite Design Element”]The sunset colored rainbow floral that centered the main table was my favorite design element. Michelle Selko with Creative Light did an absolutely spectacular job. [/field]
[field title=”Tips To Pull Off The Look”][/field]
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These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
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BBJ La Tavola

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Petit Bouquet

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This Couple Sent Out Invitations To A ‘Secret Venue In Maui’ Wedding And You Won’t Believe What Guests Arrived To

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

The wedding colors were classic whites with pops of blushes and berry tones.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Angela and D’Arcy have traveled to Hawaii every year since they first met. In fact, Angela loves Hawaiian culture so much she started the first Hawaiian poke restaurant group back home in Edmonton. Following their engagement in Santa Margherita in Italy, they knew they wanted to find a secret garden location that reminded them of Italy yet infused the lush tropical feel of Hawaii. They found just that at Haiku Mill. Their design details were classic and timeless.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

Angela and D’Arcy went to Italy on their fifth anniversary. D’Arcy surprised Angela with a proposal in the gardens of the Imperiale Palace Hotel in Santa Margherita. It was then that they both knew they wanted a magical secret garden-themed wedding that reminded them of their proposal location.

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The ‘Angela’ dress, is an exquisite custom creation that both incorporates Angela’s love of Italian craftsmanship and infuses sentiment into her wedding. Her close family friend, Angela Valle, an Italian-trained dressmaker, custom-designed and hand sewn every detail of her dress. Using lace flown from Italy, the dress took several meetings and fittings over a year to complete. The beading is intricately done by hand, with every decision jointly made by Angela and her dressmaker. The journey to Angela was just as important as the final piece. The bride surprised guests with a dress change before dinner to honor her heritage. She wowed everyone with her traditional Chinese Cheongsam with traditional gold bangles gifted to her by her mother. Her traditional Chinese dress was custom-made in China during a trip with D’Arcy. Angela was touring D’Arcy around China and showing him the country where her family is from. D’Arcy actually bought this dress for Angela before they were even engaged. He always said, “This is for when we get married!”

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One of the couple’s joint passions is food, and having a culinary experience for their wedding was a top priority. It was important to the couple to use locally sourced ingredients to provide guests with a local experience. Chef Brian with Cutting Edge Catering freshly caught the fish for fresh catch, and the Catering Edge team paid attention to every detail from plating to service. Hors d’Oeuvres were served during cocktail hour and featured local Hawaiian flavors. They also had a dessert station featuring a nitrogen ice cream station, serving ice cream made right in front of guests. Later in the evening, there was an open fire and S’more station with handmade marshmallows to roast. Fruit tarts were served made with Hawaiian-grown fruits. The couple incorporated their beloved fur babies into their wedding by naming their signature cocktails after their cats! The bride’s signature drink was a Mochi – a refreshing pineapple mojito, while the groom’s signature drink was a Nori, a coconut Negroni. The bride also did all her own stationery and illustrations, including their adorable drink menu!

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[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

Bella Bloom Maui did an amazing job with this classic and timeless floral design. The main focal flowers were roses, ranunculus, and orchids. The bridal bouquet was a classic white and blush bouquet, while deeper berry tones were incorporated throughout the rest of the design. The bride is actually a Canadian-based florist and Bella Bloom Maui welcomed her with open arms. In true Aloha spirit, they invited her to their beautiful floral studio to design her own bridal bouquet and boutonniere. This was incredibly meaningful to Angela and an experience she will treasure forever.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]

A mauve-colored red velvet flavor? Yes, please! Angela and D’Arcy’s custom two-tiered cake features a Hawaiian guava tier and a mauve-colored velvet chocolate tier to fit the wedding colors.

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[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

Angela had a custom 14-karat gold plated locket made by Haiku Lane Jewelry to honor her late father. While her father was not there physically to walk her down the aisle, he was in the palm of her hands as she grasped her locket and held her flowers close. She felt her father’s love as she walked herself down the aisle toward D’Arcy, ready to marry the man of her dreams. Marvin Tevaga provided the most beautiful live music, playing the ukulele and singing “Can’t help falling in Love with You” as the ceremony began. The couple also changed things up by surprising their guests with their first dance as their grand entrance to the reception, with custom choreography to the song “Forever and Ever, Amen”.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]

The couple never saw the venue before the wedding day. The element of surprise was very important to both of them. This wedding truly was an enchanted secret garden wedding, as none of the guests knew the location of the venue. Their wedding invitations read “secret venue in Maui, Hawaii.” Forty of their closest family and friends flew to Maui while having no idea where they would celebrate the couple. Angela and D’Arcy had all the guests shuttled to the venue with a personalized “welcome video” for every person. As their guests stepped out of the shuttle, they were greeted by the magic of Haiku Mill; where Old-World Europe meets natural Hawaii splendor. It was truly an unforgettable experience for their guests, and the couple had the most perfect day celebrating with their loved ones.

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The Blueprint Wedding for How to Soften an Industrial Space With Blooms

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Blush, cream, mauve, green, dark purple[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]The bride really focused on softening the industrial space of The Foundry. Their florist helped them conceptualize a “meadow” that would bring the organic feeling of the foliage outside the venue, inside. She wanted a romantic, elegant vibe that featured a timeless, neutral color palette enhanced by rich textures. She sourced handmade paper invitations from Bulgaria with deckled edges, wax seals embellished with dried flowers and letterpress printing. Their day-of paper, from the same vendor, included special touches on each menu like details about their featured wine, which was from their favorite winery in Sonoma, CA. As the groom’s family is Italian, the wedding also spoke to a strong Tuscan influence, from the organic florals to the abundant charcuterie at cocktail hour. The ivy and greenery at the Foundry complimented the bride’s design, and allowed her to curate an outdoor custom experience in the heart of New York City.[/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]Our unique love story is really centered around the pandemic. We met two weeks before NYC shut down and, serendipitously, happened to live seven blocks away from each other. Once we realized that the pandemic wasn’t going away, we decided to essentially quarantine together: we weathered social justice protests, the pandemic and a cross-country move, all of which made us closer and gave our relationship a great foundation. Without that unplugged time, we would’ve never developed a close enough relationship for me to take the plunge and move to San Francisco. Essentially, I booked a trip to the West Coast at the end of the summer and never looked back. Joe proposed a few months later and the rest is history! [/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Ashley wore a chic, embellished Mira Zwillinger gown from Mark Ingram Atelier. The gown featured a blush underlay, the designer’s signature beading, and an epic overskirt which the bride wore for her ceremony. To complete the bridal look, Ashley also wore a long cathedral veil for her walk down the aisle. [/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Ashley’s two bridesmaids wore identical blush/beige silk gowns from Fame and Partners. A simple yet stylish compliment to their organic, colorful floral bouquets from Cezanne Floral.[/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]Joe had two looks for his wedding, both from The Black Tux. He wore a crisp white jacket for portraits and ceremony before changing into a baby blue jacket that perfectly complimented his eyes. [/field]
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[field title=”Food & Drink”]Coming from San Francisco, the couple served their guests their favorite wine from Scribe Winery, their favorite winery in Sonoma, CA. The couple also honored their grandparents by naming their custom cocktails after them. [/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Cezanne Floral designed petite, organic bouquets with blush and greenery tones and just a little depth with pops of dark purple. These small bouquets perfectly complimented the bride and bridesmaids stature and gowns. For the ceremony, the florist created a lot of eye catching texture the floral runners and meadow. Although the ceremony had to be moved inside due to rain, the lush florals still conveyed a warm Tuscan vibe. Meticulously placed floral centerpieces adorned the long rectangular tables in the tent for the reception following. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]The wedding cake was designed by Nine Cakes and was a showstopper. With three epic tiers, it was the focal point of the cocktail hour. The texture was designed to mimic a Tuscan alfresco wall, and also beautifully complimented the texture of the venue space. [/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”][/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]One special touch the bride loved was their hand-embossed ice cubes with their initials that garnished each custom cocktail. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]The couple gave their guests more insight into their relationship through custom cocktail napkins, which each contained a fun, unique fact about the couple.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″][/field]
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A Floral-Filled Vision Set on Lake Como at Villa Regina Teodolinda

[section title=”The Planning”]
[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Burnt Umber, Pink, Ochre[/field]
[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]A floral filled vision set the stage for this stunning, yet classic Lake Como wedding. The couple drew off the colours of the villa’s unique palette, bringing in some pinks to pop against the natural Umber and Ochre of the facade. Guests had an uninterrupted view of Lake Como as the couple said their vows in front of their nearest and dearest. [/field]
[field title=”Proposal Story”]Frank proposed during the height of COVID so we didn’t have the option of a getaway. Initially, Frank was planning to propose in Banff since we love being by lakes (which is part of the reason we chose to get married in Lake Como!). However, with COVID, Frank instead proposed at Big Sur, which is one of our favorite getaways in California. He woke up super early to prepare a picnic basket that was in the trunk, and had asked me if I wanted to go whale watching that day at Big Sur. I initially thought it was a little odd, since it wasn’t whale watching season, but was excited to go to Big Sur nonetheless. Once we got there, he had already scoped out a perfect picnic spot where we were sitting on a cliff overlooking the California coast, popped a bottle of champagne and had all of my favorite snacks prepared. I totally blacked out during his speech (which I’m sure was extremely sweet), and when he opened the ring box to pop the question, the box was upside down![/field]
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[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Christine chose a classic silhouette by famed designer Monique L. She wanted it to be timeless and elegant, and the dress definitely met the brief. Trine Juel created two perfect bridal looks to compliment the gown in both the day and the evening. [/field]
[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]As it was a more intimate wedding, the couple opted not to have a formal bridal party and instead got ready with their closest friends. [/field]
[field title=”Groomsman Attire”][/field]
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[section title=”The Details”]
[field title=”Food & Drink”]In true Italian fashion, no guest left hungry. Aperitivo was ripe with classic Italian fare such as cold cuts, local cheeses, fresh tomatoes and produce. For dinner, local cuisine was highlighted through seafood and pasta and to finish off, the couple provided late night noodles. [/field]
[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Elegant florals formed an arch for the ceremony and adorned the tables. Decor was simple yet timeless with taper candles and clean place settings. [/field]
[field title=”Wedding Cake”]A traditional Italian cake was served as guests lit sparklers for the first cut and the champagne toast. [/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]There are two moments that stick out from the ceremony – (1) when Frank quoted Taylor Swift in his vows, and referred to her as my “favorite poet”, and (2) when our officiant started by asking us to pause and take a moment to look around at our venue, Lake Como and all our guests who flew so far to be with us in that moment. As we looked around, I think we were both filled with immense gratitude and love and felt fully present in that moment and what it meant to be getting married in front of all our loved ones.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]No Lake Como wedding is complete without a private boat ride for the couple after the ceremony. The perfect time for them to get away and soak up the reality of the day, while taking in the true beauty of the Lake. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]As the couple welcomed their guests at the start of the dinner, they announced that each setting had a special envelope under the plate for every guest. Guests opened their envelopes to find a photo of them with the couple, marking special memories that they each shared with them. It was a beautiful moment with plenty of tears, laughs and joy. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #3″]Our favorite moment from the wedding day is the post-ceremony boat ride. It was such a beautiful way to take a quiet moment to ourselves after the ceremony, where we could just bask in our post wedding bliss!
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Ceremony at the Gazebo

Yellow Daisies

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A Luke’s Diner Food Truck

Coffee Bar for Guests

Paul Anka Appearance

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