Virginia Wedding Ideas and Inspiration - Style Me Pretty

Our Fave Places To Tie the Knot In Buckhead

There’s no doubt that Atlanta’s wedding game is strong, especially if you’re looking to take your celebration a little north to the uptown district of Buckhead. But if you find yourself waffling on just where to say “I do” in this historic locale, no worries. We’re counting down four of our faves to help you out.

Photo Courtesy Of: The Westin Buckhead Atlanta

THE WESTIN BUCKHEAD ATLANTA

Why we love it: With over 30,000 square feet of event space, The Westin Buckhead Atlanta always delivers when it comes to hosting magazine-worthy celebrations. And their talented weddings team, culinary expertise and proximity to all of that fab Buckhead shopping is key to any awesome wedding week or weekend. Plus, we absolutely adore those luxe accommodations. It’s just what you need after dancing the night away with your loved ones.

What you can’t miss: Their reception options. With over 20 venues woven throughout their property, you can celebrate your newlywed status in everything from a grand ballroom to a garden terrace. Urban vibe meets serene green space never looked so awesome.

Photography: Amy Arrington

ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN

Why we love it: You know we love a good garden ceremony, and if you’re looking to say “I do” surrounded by lush florals or just steps away from a picturesque pond, you’ve found your winner in the Atlanta Botanical Garden. We’re especially fond of the Alston Overlook with its Midtown skyline views and intimate setting for just 60 of your nearest and dearest. Now that’s romantic.

What you can’t miss: The Rose Garden. It features over 21 varieties of your fave flower and it’s amazing.

Photography: Justin DeMutiis

THE SWAN HOUSE

Why we love it: Put simply, ceremonies at The Swan House are quintessential southern affairs. They’re grand, they’re classic and they’re all sorts of take your breath away dreamy. So are we obsessed? You betcha. And those gorgeous staircases are literally are everything.

What you can’t miss: The museum tours. Guests aren’t allowed to party inside the mansion, but you can offer them tours of all of the beauty before you say your “I do’s.” We absolutely love that.

Photography: Carla Gates

THE ESTATE

Why we love it: Centered in the heart of Buckhead, once you enter the grounds of The Estate, you’ll feel like you’ve literally into another time and place. That’s because these three acres smack-dab in the center of the city are surrounded by tall trees that cocoon you from all of the outside activities. And with outdoor ceremony options that include a beautiful fountain, you’ll be giving your Big Day that historic charm you wanted.

What you can’t miss: The charm and history. This sweet locale won The Buckhead Beautification Award for a reason.

If you’re ready to tie the knot in Buckhead, be sure to visit each of these amazing locales for more information. And don’t forget to contact The Westin Buckhead Atlanta for all of your reception and accommodation needs for an event that is fabulous from start to finish.

A Virginia Farm Wedding Filled With Familial Touches

While family is an integral part of most weddings, some take it to a whole other level. Case in point, this Virginia celebration, where the bridal party was made up of the Bride’s sisters AND brothers, the Groom wore a family heirloom Army uniform also worn by his father and grandfather on their wedding days, and the cake was baked by the Mother of the Bride. All of these actions pumped up the love level a ton and we can’t get enough. See it all in our gallery filled with Kim Stockwell’s pretty pics!

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From Kim Stockwell… The joy on Jordan and Eric’s wedding day was palpable. Smiles and laughter filled the mountainside ceremony as they pledged their love to one another. The bride had a very clear vision for her day, she wanted the rolling hills of the ceremony to complement her simplistic neutral aesthetic.

There was a strong emphasis on the importance of family as the bride is one of seven children. The mountainside backdrop was also home to the bride’s older sister, Jillian, who was married there in November of 2015. The oldest of the bride’s sisters will also marry there in 2018.

She chose to have a mixed gender bridal party as she wanted all of her siblings standing by her side. During the ceremony the bride’s father sang as the groom’s father officiated their ceremony. The groom wore a family heirloom Army uniform that was worn by his father and his grandfather on their wedding days. The desserts were also a family affair: the wedding cake was baked by the mother of the bride and the pies were prepared by bridesmaid and sister of the bride Jaclyn. Guests were greeted at the reception with eucalyptus lined tables and candle light as the couple shared their first dance under bistro lights. Guests danced as the band played well into the evening. The reception concluded with a joy filled sparkler send off.

9 Wedding Locations You Havent Heard About Yet

We know that finding the perfect wedding venue isn’t always easy, especially if you’re looking for something that totally speaks to you and yours. So today we’re running through a list of nine (yes, NINE) fab venues we absolutely love, so you can find that dream locale. Scroll for some hidden gems you haven’t even heard of.

THE ST. REGIS WASHINGTON, D.C.

Why we love it: Just steps from the White House, The St. Regis Washington, D.C. is the perfect mix of luxe accommodations and upscale wedding offerings – all with a dash of historical charm. You can opt for a cocktail hour in the Italianate revival lobby, or celebrate your “I do’s” in the Astor Ballroom with its hand-stenciled ceiling (an original 1926 decorative feature) and Palladian windows overlooking The Astor Terrace. This place is beautiful, you guys – and it’s no wonder it continues to be named the “Best Hotel for Small Weddings” by Washington Magazine. It’s just that good.

What you can’t miss: The Astor Terrace. Perfect for ceremonies OR receptions, this gem of an outdoor space features a dreamy fountain. Need we say more?

W SCOTTSDALE

Why we love it: Located smack-dab in the middle of Scottsdale’s Entertainment District, W Scottsdale is every modern lovin’ bride’s dream. Think totally chic contemporary spaces (both indoor and outdoor) perfect for celebrating your Big Day, plus amazing accommodations that will make your entire wedding weekend.

What you can’t miss: Their fab W Insider service. It’s concierge plus some with everything you’ll ever need just a push of a button away. Whatever you want, whenever you want it.

LE MÉRIDIEN DELFINA SANTA MONICA

Why we love it: Situated just three blocks from the ocean with great access and breathtaking views, plus offering up some awesome amenities for guests (hey there, Bicycle Programme), Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica seamlessly combines a glam spot to say “I do” with all of that laid-back Southern Cali charm we love so much. We’re obsessed with their Pool Terrace receptions, not to mention their chef-inspired catering menus and views of the Pacific Ocean.

What you can’t miss: Their venues. From the Delfina Ballroom to the Terrazza Garden, Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica has you covered when it comes to celebrating in style.

HOTEL COLONNADE CORAL GABLES, A TRIBUTE PORTFOLIO HOTEL

Why we love it: Ideal for those travel lovers who want to say “I do” in complete luxury, the Hotel Colonnade Coral Gables has elegant weddings (and accommodations) down to an absolute science. From their 23,000 square feet of event space to their gorgeous venue options (hello, marble-tiled rotunda) to their talented staff that knows everything there is to know about throwing the perfect wedding, you’ll most definitely be making a statement.

What you can’t miss: Their Make a Green Choice Program. Guests receive a $5 food credit or 500 SPG points just for making the choice to conserve natural resources in their room. We love that.

THE WESTIN CHICAGO NORTHWEST

Why we love it: It’s hard not to fall in love with a setting as pretty as Hamilton Lake and when you add in a climate-controlled tent and fully-renovated guest rooms, you have yourselves one of the prettiest wedding locales in all of Chicago. Plus, the Westin Chicago Northwest also offers up a plethora of indoor + outdoor venue options, customizable menus AND your very own wedding specialist.

What you can’t miss: Their 24-hour room service. (Enough said.)

SHERATON SAN DIEGO HOTEL & MARINA

Why we love it: You honestly can’t go wrong with a San Diego wedding, and the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina is the epitome of a perfect SoCal soiree with a gorgeous seaside location and deluxe amenities. Now add in a stunning garden ceremony spot (with marina views) and indoor venue options that are just as cool and you have the perfect place to say “I do.”

What you can’t miss: The Culinary team. They’ve been named “Best Caterer” by San Diego Magazine for 15 years running. Yum.

THE EQUINOX, A LUXURY COLLECTION GOLF RESORT & SPA, VERMONT

Why we love it: You know we can never get enough of Vermont weddings and if you’re looking for the perfect destination spot: this is it. From their three unique venues (Pond Pavilion, Colonnade Ballroom and Meadow House) to the amazing views of the Equinox Mountain and the Taconic Mountain Ridge, The Equinox Resort has everything you’ll ever need for that dream wedding… AND can accommodate anywhere from 80 to 250 guests.

What you can’t miss: The activities. This four-season resort offers up a world of fun-filled adventures, from golfing to skiing to fishing to snowshoeing – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

THE ST. ANTHONY, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, SAN ANTONIO

Why we love it: Four words: Open-air rooftop ballroom. Yep, you can literally dance the night away under the stars. Plus, the St. Anthony has been hosting weddings for over a century, so you know you’re in good hands with their talented staff of event professionals. From their gorgeous rooms to their convenient downtown locale, you won’t be missing a thing.

What you can’t miss: The details. From crystal chandeliers to a winding staircase to theatrical lighting and a 19th Century French tapestry, get ready for some non-stop oohing and ahhing.

THE WESTIN GALLERIA & OAKS HOUSTON

Why we love it: If you’re having a celebration with a lot of out-of-town guests, you can’t pick a locale better than the Westin Galleria & Oaks Houston. Its Uptown location paired with its amazing guest amenities and reception space for up to 1,000 makes it the ideal location for those looking to explore the Galleria neighborhood of Houston. Think shopping, dining and spa-ing the days away. It’s perfect.

What you can’t miss: The Monarch Ballroom. With floor-to-ceiling windows and views of the city, this 24th floor gem is a reception dreamland.

Visit SPG Weddings to find out even more about these hidden gems AND all of the amazing perks of having an SPG Wedding. You can thank us later, friends.

This Classic Arlington Wedding Was a Tear-Jerker!

Any Bride will tell you, it’s those unplanned, intimate moments with your loved ones throughout the wedding day that you’ll remember most, and we’re sure this Bride, Maddy, would agree. Elizabeth Fogarty Photography recalls two sweet moments of this classic, navy and gold wedding at the Army Navy Country Club planned by Engaging Affairs: when Maddy’s sister shared heartfelt words while the ladies were getting ready and when her father saw Maddy for the first time – the Bride teared up for both!

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From the Bride… We met on New Years Eve at a party. We both work at Under Armour and were introduced through a mutual friend. Chris says that he knew I was the one the minute I walked through the door! Our words for the wedding day were classic, elegant, FUN! Our colors were navy with gold accents and white flowers. The important elements of our big day were the music, our friends and family, and the flowers.

High School Sweethearts Tie the Knot With Garden Romance

My very favorite moments of this Virginia garden wedding are the simple ones. The pre-ceremony exchange of vows with only their parents in attendance, the private dinner made just for two, and the madly-in-love way these high school sweethearts still look at one another. It’s a celebration filled so much heart, and with some of our favorite vendors like Kristin Sweeting, Holly Chapple and JKW Beauty on the lineup, you better believe this is one gallery you can’t afford to miss.

From Kristin Sweeting… A secret garden, a private ceremony, and a floral veil are just a few of the magical details that took place at this April wedding on the plantation of Oatlands Historic House and Gardens.

Choosing a venue is one of the most important pieces of planning a wedding. When you find the perfect venue, it speaks to you – and all of the carefully planned details just fall into place. This is exactly what happened for an April bride touring Oatlands Historic House and Gardens. Its grand nature and historical past that sits on 415 acres, along with hidden details such as secret gardens, a tucked-away cottage, and the oldest standing greenhouse in the South. These little spots would provide the perfect setting for the couple’s planned private moments among the day’s celebration.

The bride and groom were high school sweethearts, attending senior prom together and dating for ten years, so a big celebration of their love was a long time coming. The couple wanted not only to include a large group of friends and family but also to share special moments with only each other to reflect upon and celebrate their love. A first look, then a pre-ceremony exchange of vows surrounded by only their parents, followed by a private dinner for two in the lush gardens by the pond.

The vintage feel of the estate and its surroundings matched the overall theme of tradition with a twist. Vintage silhouettes of the bride and groom, inspired by a family heirloom, were present on the invitations, stationery, signs, and seating chart. The bride’s big entrance came in the form of an elegant vintage car. Neutral colors in the bridesmaid dresses let the beauty of the florals, including fresh flowers in the bride’s veil, truly shine. Tables were lined with a garland of colorful flowers with fresh greenery and delicate twinkle lights sprinkled in. Shades of beige, pink, navy, and silver showed up in small but impactful details, like the groomsmen’s blue suits matching the blue anemone flowers in the bridesmaids’ bouquets and the blueberries on the wedding cake.

Longstanding tradition combined with personal touches and memories created with the couple’s closest friends and family against the magical backdrop of Oatlands Historic House and Gardens made the day feel like a timeless fairy tale.

This is How You Do Black, White + Oh-So-Gorgeous Green

This editorial from Claire Duran sums up the kind of wedding I love the most: no fuss, no frills—just packed with classic elegance all the way. You simply can’t go wrong with black and white, and a gorgeous splash of green. Emily Artistry kissed the Bride with her beauty skills, while Love Blooms infused a heavy dose of florals, making for a timeless collection of images that is sure to inspire plenty a soirée.

From Claire Duran… This editorial photoshoot was inspired by the beauty of Keswick Hall in Charlottesville, Virginia. The bushes of pale pink roses ornamenting the arbored walkways gave us the perfect inspiration to build upon. This naturally beautiful landscape gave us the perfect setting to create a garden wedding setup full of romantic, soft, and elegant touches, all of which go in line with our signature aesthetic. We wanted to create a cascading tablescape where the flower arrangements could be well integrated within the backdrop landscape, making the table an extension of the arbor and all the greenery around it. All the rest of the elements of the shoot were thought of with understated, simple, and sophisticated organic beauty, a soft neutral palette, and the thought of movement, all of which Nicole Colwell masterfully captured.

The Sweetest Way to Bring Two Families Together

This wedding photographed by Carrie Coleman was filled with some of the most meaningful touches! From the location on the grounds of the boarding school where the Groom grew up, to the semi-circle of chairs so the couple was surrounded by their loved ones during the ceremony, to the personalized vows, to the custom cake topper featuring their pup – each little detail represented something special. But the sweetest of all has to be the jars of cookies, baked with love by both mothers from beloved family recipes. We can’t think of a better way to show these two families coming together than that!

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From the Bride… Michael and I were introduced by a mutual friend of ours, Megan. When Megan first met Michael, she just knew he was the one for me, and when we met two months later, there was an instant connection – it turns out Megan is quite the matchmaker!

From the Groom… Hannah and I had been dating for four years before I proposed. Hannah’s mother offered me Hannah’s grandmother’s diamond ring – Hannah’s grandfather bought the ring in the diamond district in New York City just after World War II and the ring had been passed down to Hannah’s mom. I took the ring to a jeweler and had the diamond reset in a simple 18k gold band.

I had planned to propose when we took a trip to Maine, but when the ring was finished sooner than expected, I couldn’t wait to do it. I wrote a note, put it in a little bag, and tied it around our dog’s neck. The note read, “Mom, I would really like it if Michael could become my dad for real. Love, Muggins.” I released Muggins upstairs and put a Van Morrison record on the turn table (pretty early on in our relationship, we bonded over the song “Crazy Love”). Just as the song started playing, Hannah walked downstairs. I got down on one knee and proposed. Meanwhile Muggins, sensing the excitement, was jumping up and down on both of us.

From Carrie Coleman Photography… When planning their wedding, Hannah and Michael knew that they wanted something beautifully simple and very personal for their closest family and friends. The hillside at Woodberry, the boarding school where Michael grew up, was the perfect backdrop for the ceremony with its view of a lake down below. Guests sat in a semi circle, surrounding the couple in support and love. Michael’s sister, Kellye, officiated the wedding, and Hannah and Michael wrote their own vows, which made their ceremony incredibly personal.

Guests enjoyed cocktail hour under the grove of trees on Woodberry’s main lawn, playing corn hole on the set Hannah’s dad crafted, before entering the tent for a delicious dinner by Red Hub Food Co. Hannah had figurines of her dog, Muggins, and her sister’s dog, Gertie, custom-made for their cake, and the dessert table also featured glass jars of cookies made by both mothers from family recipes. This joy-filled wedding was certainly one for the books!

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Three Tips For Looking Completely Natural In Your Wedding Photos

If you find yourself panicking over the mere thought of getting those engagement + wedding photos taken, know that you are not alone. Freeze face happens to the very best of us, and if you’re more than ready to conquer those awkward poses and staged kisses, the uber-talented Bethany Rees of DOLA Photography is here to tell us exactly how it can be done. Cozy on up for a lesson in oh-so-natural wedding photos below.

TRUST YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

When it comes to capturing natural images, I love to keep couples moving and doing things, so that they almost forget they are being photographed. Even small amounts of movement can make photos look less posed and stagnant. It’s great when couples are up for whatever I ask, like leading one another through a field or walking quickly together down a set of stairs, trusting that I will always make them look good. Even if they are just standing in one spot for me, I’ll ask them to sway, almost slow dance with each other, so there is always movement. A good photographer knows how to give direction to get natural looking photos out of anyone, no matter what their personality is like.

IGNORE THE CAMERA

My style is also very photojournalistic, so outside of the time we do portraits together, I am constantly scanning the room on a wedding day looking for small moments – glances, laughs, hugs… those are the best candids. Sometimes I even hold my camera up and wait. I can see the photo in my head and I just need something small to happen, or someone to move into the frame to get it perfect, and it happens so quickly that if I didn’t already have my camera ready at my eye, I would miss it! For those photos I need people to ignore me – a lot of times when people see a camera they want to pose or smile, which is great, but normally my favorite candid photos happen when people are just being present, enjoying themselves at the party and ignoring me.

ENJOY YOURSELF

Consider doing something that is just for the two of you. It doesn’t need to be something major, but a small moment or activity together gives an opportunity for me to just document what you’re doing together in an unscripted way. Get coffee, have a glass of champagne together, go off and eat your cake while watching the sunset. Give yourselves extra down time in your wedding day schedule to really allow yourself to relax and for spontaneous things to happen. Those in-between moments are always some of my favorite and the most natural looking photos! For engagement sessions, too, I recommend getting your hair and makeup done so you are feeling fabulous and confident… treat it like you’re going on a fun date!

You want your wedding day to rock, so finding a photog that can ease your mind and help you feel natural in front of the camera is key. Bethany Rees, studio owner of DOLA Photography, is one of those talented photographers, using her years of experience to snap images that are modern, timeless AND gorgeous… and all with an unobtrusive and laid-back style that will sooo put you at ease. We are all kinds of obsessed with her photojournalistic style, and her ability to snap those moments you didn’t even know were happening. Do yourself a favor and contact her today for a wedding album filled with heart-tugging images you’ll cherish for always.

Photography: DOLA Photography

Historic Estate Wedding With Secret Garden Style

If you’ve ever dreamed of a secret garden-style wedding, allow me to introduce this summertime Virginia fête that’s storybook romance brought to life. Captured by Jodi & Kurt Photography, it’s the love story of Hannah and Dyer who tied the knot on the bride’s family estate that’s steeped in history and beauty. We invite you to get lost in the pretty and head over to the gallery for a full glimpse into this truly timeless day.

From Jodi & Kurt Photography… Long-time residents of the picturesque Middleburg, Virginia community, Hannah and Dyer wanted their home-based nuptials to capture the elegance and grandeur of the Reuter family’s historic estate.

Established as Glenstone in the early 1920s, the rolling pastures of this quintessential hunt country property have been the foundation of the Reuter family since the late 1790s. At the very heart of the farm’s 1200 acres stands an incredible 250-foot tulip poplar tree that is believed to be over 300 years old. It was under this magnificent tree so deeply rooted in both the Reuter’s land and their hearts that Hannah and Dyer exchanged vows.

Prior to the ceremony, guests were greeted with Champagne in Glenstone’s formal Boxwood Garden; the first of several unique outdoor spaces used throughout Hannah and Dyer’s celebration. Following an intimate first look in the estate’s Secret Garden, the couple joined their 300 guests beneath the imposing poplar.

Immediately following their joyous ceremony, guests made their way to the Eastern Garden, which was built to celebrate Hannah’s grandparent’s 65th wedding anniversary. Over cocktails and conversation, guests feasted on seasonal hors d’oeuvres prepared by Middleburg’s famed Red Fox Inn, which has been owned and operated by the Reuter family for three generations.

Dinner and dancing ensued under a lantern-lit tent on the South Lawn, featuring an abundance of flora from the estate’s grounds.

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When an Art Director + Brewery Owner Tie the Knot

You might not immediately think of a brewery as a dream wedding venue, but for Kim and Scott, it perfectly fit the bill. As co-owner of Triple Crossing Brewery, Scott wanted to give his bride the ultimate blank canvas to bring her modern design vision to life and the result was a black and white lovefest with lush greenery woven into every detail. Thanks to Kim Stockwell for the photos that prove brewery weddings just might be the next big thing.

From Kim Stockwell… Nestled near the heart of the city, Triple Crossing Brewery is home to craft beers, modern vibes, and Neapolitan brick oven pizzas. When Kim and Scott were planning their summer wedding they decided the brewery would be the perfect spot for their ceremony & celebration. Scott, co-owner of the brewery, gave his bride the freedom to customize their wedding to fit the space as well as her modern-meets-romantic dreams. Kim, an art director by trade, had a vision for the space that she spent months developing.

Their ceremony was industrial yet utterly romantic. The aisle was lit with candles & greenery as the bride & groom pledged their love for one another in front of a custom arch built by the groom’s father and executed perfectly by their floral designer Stephanie Murtaugh. The florals were modern with structured bouquets complemented by romantic, loose greenery. The Vera Wang invitation suite set the tone for their elegant yet contemporary black and white wedding.

After their first kiss as husband and wife, Scott surprised Kim with a barrage of little paper airplanes tossed by the guests as an ode to their love story. When the two first started dating, Kim confessed she didn’t know how to make a paper airplane, in which Scott spent their date teaching her how. From that moment on, every chance Scott had he would put a little paper airplane somewhere for Kim to find as a sweet reminder of their first date. Scott incorporated the paper airplane into his proposal and then spent days before the wedding making little paper planes for the guests to toss at the conclusion of their ceremony.

The celebration continued with an evening of dinner and dancing, followed by a sparkler farewell as the couple set off to their honeymoon in Dubai and Bali.

The Bride Wore a Showstopper Dress for Her Outdoor E-Sesh

If you want engagement photos that stand the test of time, take cues from Erin and Will. They worked with photographer Jake Anderson for classic portraits in a lush, garden location and Erin’s showstopper white dress tied it all together. Find even more right over here!

Erin + Will are an instantly classic couple and wanted their engagement session to reflect exactly that. Erin is the Editor of Virginia Living Magazine and exudes a wondrously stylish combination of elegant + classic. The combination of this stunner of a dress and the romantic garden location made this couple’s session one to look back on for generations to come.

Photography: Jake Anderson

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Gray Is the New Black

What began as a friendship at work gradually grew into a beautiful love, and this couple’s Virginia wedding is as classic as their story. The Bride looked stunning in her perfectly fitted Blue by Enzoani gown and her royal-worthy diamond and sapphire engagement ring, accompanied by her pretty Bridesmaids wearing shades of gray. Meredith Sledge Photography captured the beautiful day, and it’s all waiting for you in the Vault.

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From Meredith Sledge Photography… Sarah and Jon met at work in September of 2011. Sarah remembers the first time she saw Jon at an event services meeting. Jon was presenting a financial forecast, and Sarah thought to herself, “That guy is so cute! But what is up with his 1950s hair style and blue suede space shoes?” Jon remembers when Sarah first started and thought to himself, “Man, Anna’s sister is cute.” (Sarah’s sister worked with Jon at the time.) Over the next year, they would get to know each other as friends through happy hours and work functions.

In October 2012, Jon was preparing for Halloween and shaved his head to get into character as Walter White from Breaking Bad. Sarah wasn’t at work on Halloween but ran into Jon later that week. She saw his completely bald head and thought he may be sick and became very upset. Thankfully Sarah learned it was just a costume. As Jon’s hair grew back, and he decided to keep it short, Sarah took notice and developed a bit of a crush. Over the next few months, she planned happy hours to get to know him better. Jon, a connoisseur of happy hours, was always in attendance and thought Sarah was a lot of fun to be around. In January of 2013 at one particularly festive happy hour, they fell into conversation for hours and realized they were the only two left at the bar. They continued the evening bar hopping through DC, and a week later Jon called to ask Sarah out for their first official date. In June 2015, Sarah moved into Jon’s house, and as a welcome present, he gave her his blue suede space shoes to be cut up and thrown out.

From the Groom… I had intended to propose at sunset on a boat ride while we were at Sarah’s family cottage in Thousand Islands, but she kept going to bed at 8:30, so I realized I’d have to find another time. I wanted it to be a private moment for just the two of us, because I know how much she hates big scenes. On Saturday, July 2, we were going to run some errands for her dad and then take the boat out for a spin through the islands; I thought this would be the perfect time to propose. I stealthily grabbed the tripod and hid the ring in a sweater as the box was too big for my pocket. Sarah always gets cold so I knew she wouldn’t suspect a thing if I brought a sweater for her just in case. Once we were out on the water, I suggested we take a picture with some of the islands in the background. I set up the tripod, and as we posed for the first picture, I got down on one knee and asked her to marry me. I blacked out and don’t remember if she said yes, but she is wearing the ring and we planned a wedding, so I assume she did. Best part – she didn’t suspect a thing!

From the Bride… We had talked a lot about the timing of when we would get engaged. We both wanted to get married in 2017, and I told him for that to happen, he needs to propose by July 1, 2016, because we’d want to get married in the late spring/summer and avoid our busy work season. What can I say? I’m a planner. As July approached, we were getting ready to go to Thousand Islands. We were packing the car, and Jon must have asked me a hundred times to make sure the tripod was in the car, and he wouldn’t let me carry his back pack. I thought to myself, “I wonder if the ring is in the back pack, and he is going to somehow incorporate the tripod into the proposal.” On July 2 (a day past the deadline!), we were getting ready to run errands, and Jon made a big deal about bringing the tripod and said “I’m gonna grab a sweater in case you get cold.” Had he not carried the sweater to the boat as though it had a time bomb inside of it and place it gently inside a cooler, I probably wouldn’t have thought twice about it, but instead I wondered if the sweater had something hidden inside. Later as we were out on the water about to take some pictures, I learned my suspicions were correct. Regardless of how much intuition I may have had, nothing can prepare you for the moment it actually happens. When Jon got down on one knee, it still took my breath away. I’m pretty sure I said yes, although neither of us quite remember. Luckily Jon captured it all on camera!

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Soulful Indoor Wedding with South Korean Traditions

I can always count on Michael and Carina to wow me with the simple beauty of their imagery. This soulful soiree for instance, showcases love through moments of anticipation, tradition and sweet embraces. Above all detail, those are my favorite layers of a wedding. See more of this day in the full gallery.

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This Is How You Mix Colors + Patterns

This is how you mix colors and patterns! Bright colored floral arrangements, juicy popsicles, a pinstripe table runner, watercolor stationery, a vibrant signature drink, and floral patterned napkins come together for this rehearsal dinner, and the cheerful result epitomizes summer. Amy Nicole Photography captured this fresh and fun fête – get more inspiration for pairing colors and patterns in the Vault!

From Amy Nicole Photography… Floral patterns have become a trend that is incorporated into more and more elements of weddings and wedding related events. With a bright, fun color palette, we knew that florals would be a main focus for this rehearsal dinner inspiration, but we wanted to incorporate them in a way that we haven’t seen before without being overly feminine. That’s when the floral napkins from Fine Pressed Linens became a must-use for this shoot. Mixing florals with other patterns provides such a unique design element to events, and with pinstripes coming back, we knew having a pinstripe runner would provide a subtle texture and mixture to the design. Bloom Charlottesville incorporated all the colors in the palette through the mixture of florals paired with simple white vases. The glassware and china from Festive Fare provided a modern touch to the tablescape with the classic calligraphy on the name cards from Bluestocking Calligraphy. We wanted to provide a relaxing atmosphere for the rehearsal dinner by using the bamboo chairs paired with family style seating at a farm table.

Located on the downtown mall, Old Metropolitan Hall was the perfect venue to show guests a peak into life in Charlottesville, VA. The tone of the weekend was set with the adorable welcome bags from The Detail Darling filled with local goodies and necessities. With the signature drink from Brasserie Salon, guests were reminded of the bright, colorful palette throughout the evening. Along with the signature drink, the bright colored popsicles from King of Pops were the perfect way to incorporate the summer theme to the rehearsal dinner. The classic gold and rose gold accessories from Kendra Scott paired perfectly with the off the shoulder, lace detailed “Oliver Dress” from Camilyn Beth. The suit jacket from Beecroft and Bull (a Virginia retailer) blended with the warm tones of the Bride’s accessories.

The Recipe for a Perfectly Elegant Wedding

I spent a cozy chunk of time with this editorial captured by Rachel May Photography—and for good reason. It’s jam packed with layer upon layer of elegance. From the ridiculously pretty florals by Wild Green Yonder to the table draped in La Tavola linens, I’m challenging one of you to use this shoot as your Big Day blueprint.

From Rachel May Photography… When I first began planning this editorial, I was inspired in a completely different direction. The day I met with Lori of Wild Green Yonder at Rust Manor for a venue walk through, the direction of the shoot completely changed. As we explored the venue, the natural tones of the stone and beauty of the property just spoke for itself. We ran with the natural warm tones from the stone of the front porch to pull together a minimal yet elegant look.

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A Modern Richmond Engagement on a Very Special Day

These creative business owners – a professional photographer and cinematographer – had a unique vision for the overall style of their e-session, which took place one year (to the day!) after the proposal. The Bride-to-be strategically chose soft greens and neutral tones plus a modern floral arrangement, creating a cohesive style and color palette captured by Annamarie Akins Photography that will remain consistent from the engagement shoot all the way through the wedding. And to continue on with this very special date in their relationship, their wedding will take place exactly one year (again, to the day!) later.

From Caroline Birgmann of POSH PR… What happens when Annamarie Akins Photography captures a modern yet city-chic engagement session in the heart of Richmond, Virginia?! Well, a lot of rule breaking (according to the couple!) and these absolutely stunning images!

It is no secret that Erika and Josh have an unbreakable bond. From their modern taste to their city-chic lifestyle, the couple found inspiration for their engagement shoot from their every day life together. As creative business owners, the dynamic duo find that their bond has strengthened over the past three years together. They are able to strengthen their connection on a deeper level while working hard as they continue to grow their photography and cinematography businesses side-by-side. Josh said that he loves the fact that he and Erika can easily relate to each other at the end of the day – they encourage each other to continuously set the bar high.

Living and working in a creative community, the couple find themselves in front of the camera as models on a frequent basis. That’s why they wanted to do something special for their engagement shoot that was completely their vision! They strategically chose locations that they felt represented their love story – their city’s capital building with the relaxed feel of the Richmond city streets, their favorite place to hang out, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts where their love of art inspires their creativity.

Not only is Erika a professional photographer, but she is also the visionary behind the overall style of their shoot! Soft greens and neutral creamy-whites define the romantic color palette for the soon-to-be Mr. And Mrs. From the beautiful blooms to the strategic wardrobe selections, Erika wanted to create a cohesive style and color palette from the engagement shoot all the way through their big day. Speaking of their big day, the couple decided to schedule their engagement shoot at exactly one year away from their Keswick Hall wedding in May 2018, and one year after Josh’s romantic proposal at Pippin Hill. How romantic!

Erika and Josh believe that breaking the rules is more than acceptable when it comes to an engagement photoshoot! “Don’t feel like you need to do what others are doing,” Erika said. “Be unique and just be yourself!” They found inspiration from what truly defines the couple at their core. Yes, this includes their fur baby, Lilo, named after their love of the Disney movie, “Lilo and Stitch”! We are so excited for you to take a peek into Erika and Josh’s love story! Isn’t this dreamy?!

This Pippin Hill Farm Wedding Knows the Way to Guests’ Hearts…Donuts!

In keeping with the gorgeous rustic backdrop of Pippin Hill Farm, this pink hued wedding crafted by Amore Events by Cody pulled out all the stops for a cozy celebration. From a gorgeous barn gussied up with classic blooms and candlelight to a a donut truck to finish off the evening in the sweetest of ways, have a look through photographs by Katie Stoops of a perfect Fall celebration, Virginia style.

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From the Bride… One of my favorite moments of the night were when my parents gave their speeches. Their marriage is something I’ve always looked up to so it was fun and heartfelt to see them do their speech together, make jokes, all the while giving my husband and I great advice. It will be a moment I will never forget. My other favorite moment was when my parents surprised my husband and I with a bagpiper that performed the Skye Boat Song. They know how much we love everything that has to do with Scotland.. I also may be slightly obsessed with the show “Outlander” on Starz. Another moment I’ll always remember is when I was about to walk down the aisle with my father and I remembered that someone had told me to take a second to take it all in, the sight of my husband smiling at me at the end of the aisle, the scenery, the family and friends who traveled near and far to be a part of our special day, everything. It was one of the happiest moments in my life.

Four Ways to Host the Ultimate Out-of-the-Box Celebration

If you’re a bride that does things a little, well… differently, then you definitely need to host a wedding that matches your unique personality. Because showing off that sassy side will only make your party that much more fun. Need help achieving that dream, out-of-the-box celebration? We’re runnimpong down a list of four steps that are guaranteed to make that happen… and all with the help of the W Atlanta – Buckhead. Dive in below.

ONE: CHOOSE A WEDDING VENUE THAT EMBRACES YOUR VISION

It all starts with the right locale, which means finding a place that will embrace your unique ideas and throw that wedding rule book out the window. We’re thinking a prime spot in the heart of the city like the W Atlanta – Buckhead with its gorgeous venue options and awesome accommodations that your guests will absolutely love. I mean, this is more than just a wedding… this is the party of the century. And you need a location that will totally get on board.

TWO: MAKE IT A WEDDING WEEKEND, NOT JUST AN EVENING

You’ve never been one to do things by the book – and saying “I do” to the one you love is a celebration that should last as long as possible. So instead of just partying for one night, why not turn your wedding into one of the best vacations you’ll ever take, fab friends + family included? Just make sure to fill your itinerary with an endless amount of fun-filled activities, like shopping, entertainment and dining at the best restaurants.

THREE: SURPRISE YOUR GUESTS WITH THOUGHTFUL TOUCHES

Choosing a venue like the W Atlanta – Buckhead? It’s the first step to winning over your guests. The second step? Filling their stay with thoughtful touches that will really make a statement. From welcome bags that celebrate your hosting city to a pre-wedding parties at amazing restaurants to luxe accommodations, you’ll want to make sure they truly enjoy their stay. Oh, and don’t forget to liven things up with crazy cool events, like scavenger hunts around the city and a goodbye brunch. They’ve never been to a party this.

FIVE: HOST THE ULTIMATE AFTER PARTY

Nothing says “outside the box” quite like a fabulous After Party, and when it comes to dancing the night away post-nuptials, the W Atlanta – Buckhead has you totally covered with one of the coolest spots in all of Atlanta. We’re talking the Whiskey Blue Atlanta, an on-site club that is perfect for that party slash reception (#par-ception) you’ve always wanted. I mean, it’s a rooftop bar, you guys. (Enough said.)

Ready to plan that totally fun, totally YOU wedding? Contact the W Atlanta – Buckhead today to get started – and don’t forget to ask about their exclusive Whatever/Whenever® services. Simply push a button on your phone and their team will deliver whatever you want, whenever you want it. (!) You can even earn bonus Starpoints for future getaways. It just doesn’t get any better.

A 3rd Anniversary at the Couple’s Favorite Museum

Here at SMP, we believe every anniversary is worth celebrating in a meaningful way. So kudos to Tina and Chase for ringing in three years of marriage with a whole lot of fun, and no shortage of style. They took a trip to their favorite museum and brought Nicki Metcalf along to photograph the day. Cheers to Tina and Chase, and the many years to come!

From the bride, Tina… This month we celebrate three years of wedding bliss. On our anniversary we have a tradition that we love to reminisce about our wedding day, look through photos and discuss our favorite memories we’ve made from this past year. Some of our favorite memories from this past year include getting our sweet golden retriever, Magnolia, renovating our back deck so that we can eat dinner outside when the weather is nice or just relax outside while we tell each other about our days. Several fond memories also include us traveling to new fun places we were able to unplug from work and truly enjoy each other on interrupted while exploring a new city and their local eats. Although we no longer live in the city – we love to visit often with our pups. Some of my favorite Saturday mornings involve packing up the pups, picking up breakfast and coffee from Captain Buzzy’s and walking around together.

Chase has been instrumental in helping me see that life is meant to be lived and that we work to live, we do not live to work. We bring out the best of each other. I am so thankful to have found someone that is supportive, loving, adventurous, strong and incredibly thoughtful. We truly believe that marriage is not 50/50… But rather each of us giving 100%, 100% of the time.

Photography: Nicki Metcalf | Floral Design: Emily Artistry | Venue: The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design | Film Developer: PhotoVision Prints | Hair Sylist: Sandra Ross

A Boudoir Inspired by the Words of Lord Byron

You know Michael & Carina as one of the most talented husband-wife photography duos in the industry, so it should come as no surprise that their latest workshop resulted in some pretty incredible imagery. Just take this boudoir session carefully designed by East Made Event Company with beauty by Emily Artistry. Inspired by the immortal words of Lord Byron, it’s romanticism at its very finest.

From Michael & Carina… Rooted in the same concept of romance, history, inspiration, and idealism, these boudoir images are dreamy, lost in a world of florals and soft fabrics. The natural elements, like the vines, hung on the headboard and the freshly collected blooms add a dream-like aesthetic to the editorial. Inspired by art and poetry, our lens was guided by the words from Lord Byron:

“She walks in beauty, like the night

Of cloudless climes and starry skies;

And all that’s best of dark and bright

Meet in her aspect and her eyes:

Thus mellow’d to that tender light

Which heaven to gaudy day denies. One shade the more, one ray the less,

Had half impair’d the nameless grace

Which waves in every raven tress,

Or softly lightens o’er her face;

Where thoughts serenely sweet express

How pure, how dear their dwelling-place. And on that cheek, and o’er that brow,

So soft, so calm, yet eloquent,

The smiles that win, the tints that glow,

But tell of days in goodness spent,

A mind at peace with all below,

A heart whose love is innocent!”
——–

In 2016, we hosted a workshop in Italy for photographers around the world. But as the year came to an end, we had a desire to host something of equal elegance but closer to home in Virginia. Virginia is a lovely homeland – filled with history and a variety of landscapes from rolling meadows and valleys to salty marshlands, with vineyards and old colonial homes sprinkled throughout. We chose a secluded historic home as our workshop location, The Retreat at Cool Springs, built at the start of the Age of Romanticism in music and art, in 1799. Our immensely talented stylist Elizabeth of East Made Event Co. Curated a series of inspirational shoots for our workshop attendees with the 5 ‘I’s’ of Romanticism in mind:

1. Imagination
2. Intuition
3. Idealism
4. Inspiration
5. Individuality

Elizabeth’s instruction to our workshop attendees was to ‘bring true original feeling, emotion, and inspiration back into photography by creating unique ideas that are full of purpose and meaning, inspired by sentiment and nature.’

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Photo Courtesy Of: The Westin Buckhead Atlanta

Photography: Amy Arrington

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Photography: Carla Gates

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