Style Me Pretty's Best of 2011

2011
A Year in Review of Style Me Pretty's Best

BEHIND THE SCREEN Our Favorite Bloggers Tie the Knot
Photo by Erin Hearts Court
style me pretty magazine | bridal inspirations | volume two
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of style me pretty 2011
TABLE
of CONTENTS
06 08
letter from the editor real weddings Your top 20 weddings for 2011
08 16 24 30 38 44 52 60 66 74 80 86 94 100 106 112 120 128 134 140 vibr ant in los angeles modern in miami beyond beautiful down under chattanooga charm stunning in sonoma rustic elegance eclectic perfection all out glamour in charlotte modern whimsy in wine country antique elegance in san diego romance in austr alia east coast chic winter romance modern glam in san fr ancisco seaside cool in malibu alfresco chic in napa valley sassy so-cal destination mexico vintage chic in oregon midwest magic
little black book vendor highlights behind the screen
a look at some of the very best vendors from around the world a trip down the aisle with some of our favorite bloggers
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local blog network
where wedding planning in your area is made so very easy
best of style me pretty 2011 | 3
4 | best
LETTER
from THE EDITOR
2011. the year of fabulous.
In the 12 months that made up this crazy awesome year, we blogged over 3000 posts. We launched 10 new locally inspired blogs in 3 different countries. We welcomed hundreds of new Little Black Book members, 168 new main page advertisers, saw nearly 50,000 inspiration boards crafted, sifted through more than 15,000 real wedding submissions and watched our traffic soar to more than 13 million pageviews each month. We also collaborated on 1 beautiful invitation line with William Arthur, 1 amazing china collection with NewlyWish and Wedgwood. And oh! We scored 1 very-awesome, can't-wait-till-we-have-it-in-our -hands-because-it's-going-to-kick-some-serious-wedding-booty-book-deal.
And that wasn't all. We watched our friends, Jose Villa and Joel Serrato's e-sesh, get the most comments of all posts this year, Elsie Larson's wedding get the most shares and this Le Chic fete get the most favorites. We cried as we saw this groom propose to his soon-to-be, we laughed at this one's Bieber moves, and despite our best efforts, we dove head first into the royal wedding love fest. We saw our name up in lights on Huffington Post, in Glamour and InStyle mags, on Barney's The Window and on ProBlogger. And we got to watch ourselves, champagne in hand, on CBS Sunday Morning. I know. It's been one of those years that we can hardly believe. One of those years that makes us fall to our knees and thank the world for all of the blessings that we've been given, all of the amazing artists and designers that allow us to become a canvas for their work, all of the business owners who put their faith into our brand. And all of the brides, who with their morning coffee, allow SMP to simply inspire them. To hold their hand through the adventures of planning that very, very big day. But above all else, above all of the fun stats and great partnerships, 2011 brought us something much bigger. Weddings. It brought us hold-your-breath beautiful weddings that will forever change the way brides approach their wedding day style. Weddings so beautiful you find yourself laughing, crying and favoriting with one hand while calling your best friend with the other. The weddings that we have chosen (and by "we," I mean ALL 1.2 million of us who took the time to write, comment on, favorite and share) represent the 20 most loved SMP weddings of 2011. They are the weddings that married pure style with pure joy and the result...was magic. We hope you love them as much as we do, though we secretly know that you totally will. So here's to 2011. To the readers, to the vendors, to the artists and designers. To the editors, to the techies, to the girls who bend over backwards to create a space that celebrates weddings in all of their beauty. And to wedding lovelies all over the world who welcome SMP into their homes each and every day. We raise our glass to you. xoxo, Abby Larson Founder + Editor
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Vibrant
IN LOS ANGELES
photography by erin hearts court
8 | best
From the bride... Our ceremony and cocktail hour were held at the Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills, tucked away from the city in a quiet garden. We had originally envisioned a modern wedding in an industrial space, but as the planning process unfolded, that vision completely changed. My mother owned a store that sold antique furniture when I was young, and images from that part of my life ended up guiding the design. to see the full wedding, click here.
After the ceremony, we celebrated at the London West Hollywood Hotel, where hand-picked and hand-made items were incorporated into the decor. Amir and my dad also helped by restoring old frames we picked up at thrift shops to use in the escort card display. Our guests danced the night away and hammed it up at the photo kiosk, which was an absolute hit! We had an unforgettable day and were beyond blessed to be surrounded by so much love.
10 | best
The photos, stellar, the bridesmaids dress

colors, beautiful, the cake, stunning, the candy bar, so cute, and the entire wedding, breathtaking! ~ Laura, reader
best of style me pretty 2011
| 11
12 | best
photographer erin hearts court | ceremony location greystone mansion, beverly hills | reception location the london west hollywood hotel | coordination fresh events company | flowers la partie events | cinematography living cinema | bridal gown monique lhuillier | bridesmaid dresses amsale | grooms suit theory | cake vanilla bakeshop | invitations wiley valentine | photo kiosk lensley | bride's shoes valentino | bride's earrings nadri | bride's robe anthropologie
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MODERN in M iami
photography by kt merrry
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From the bride... Felipe and I were married on November 20, 2010 in Miami, Florida. We were both born and raised in Miami and decided we wanted a Miami modern/urban wedding filled with gorgeous downtown Miami city views. After dating for nine years, I was ready to plan the wedding of our dreams and loved getting involved in every detail. to see the full wedding, click here.
Most of all, what touched our hearts was the excitement, love and support of so many of our friends and family during our special day! Special thanks to all who helped along the way including family, great friends and our fun and trustworthy vendors. We enjoyed getting to know each one of you throughout this life moment of ours!
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S ome of the special memories that were unforgettable during

our wedding day were getting ready with my mother, bridesmaids and flower girls in the miami viceroy's party room which felt perfectly fit for a bride or princess, our "first look" in a gorgeous white on white room, our first dances with dad, mom and our first dance as husband and wife. ~ The Bride
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ceremony venue st. hugh | reception venue miami tower / classic fare catering and events | wedding photography kt merry photography | stationery & invitations timeless impressions | wedding dress vera wang via ever after miami | bridesmaid dresses jim hjelm via daisy tarsi | clutches j.crew | flowers flowers by gerardo | flower girl Dresses david's bridal | make-up claud's makeup corner | band havana soul | dj dj ubi
Beyond beautiful
photography by samm blake
DOWN UNDER
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From the bride... Our wedding was held at Voyager Estate in Margaret River. Beautiful wine region, amazing beaches and a favorite weekend getaway for Mark & me. It made for a pretty perfect wedding weekend. I wanted my three bridesmaids (my younger sisters) to carry lavender bouquets but never envisioned lavender coloured gowns for them too. Once we saw the dress though, we knew it was perfect, and lavender became our accent colour for the wedding. We always knew we wanted an outdoor ceremony and the beauty of the Voyager Estate gardens was the inspiration for the look and feel of the wedding. We wanted the day to be elegantly beautiful with a vintage feel. to see the full wedding, click here.
One of the most important decisions surrounding the day was our photographer. We booked Samm almost two and a half years in advance as we knew there was no one else for the job. She has captured the joy of the day in a way even we had not expected. We knew she was good but we were literally floored when we got the proofs. I will be forever grateful for her genius. She worked tirelessly all day but still made it so fun to hang out with her. If I had one piece of advice for other brides it would be to pick the best photographer for your day. Oh, and to try, try, try to take it all in because it really does fly by as fast as they say.
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am in love with the bridesmaids dresses! you guys did a great job threading the lavender throughout the entire wedding and reception the signature drink looks amazing!!!
~ Felecia, Tampa Weddings
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photography samm blake | wedding film derek ho of urban light films | venue voyager estate | bridesmaid dresses studio collections | flowers river blossoms | invitations & programs baumbirdy | shoes tony bianco & badgley mischka | wedding dress & veil pronovias | birdcage veil & headpiece fiona dixon designs via bride & groom | wedding band tiffany & co | ring bowl paloma's nest | bird cake topper ann wood handmade | garter florrie mitton couture | bride's clutch bride & groom | calligraphy judith tubby beautiful writing | embroidered hoop miniature rhino | custom linen hotels apart | vintage jaguar margaret river chauffeurs | hair lorna marie wedding hair | makeup carol mackie | accommodation il palazzo at la foret enchantee | wedding cake edible art | hire company villa kula and bride & groom and coco mama | lace handkerchief embroidery by melissa | wedding dress label michael angela | linen petal bags that final touch | ribbon drink stirrers peach & pearl | moss letters designs by leeann | bride's earrings samantha wynne in subiaco | just married sign bride & groom best of style me pretty 2011 | 29
Chattanooga Charm
photography by austin gros
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From the bride... When I think of our wedding day, it plays over in my mind like an old black and white movie like a rerun I must have watched a hundred times when I was growing up. I hear the song Home by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros on repeat, with the lyrics Home is wherever Im with you ringing like a bell over and over again. With my fianc at the time, now husband, being a musician, our home was different every weekend depending on where he was playing that night. So as you can imagine, trying to research, create, plan, and organize the perfect wedding for us was difficult yet rewarding for us all at the same time. to see the full wedding, click here.
We wanted our guests to feel at home and comfortable, kind of like they were at a big family party or a picnic. The look that we aimed for was simplistic, handmade, and whimsical. Following our short but sweet ceremony, our guests released butterflies as we walked back down the aisle, and then we paraded down the street with our Just Married banner waving in the air all the way to the reception site where we greeted all our guests before heading off to take pictures.
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W ow! i love the bouquet!! so

unique... stunning!
~Bead Flora, reader
W hat a beautiful
wedding!! the pictures are just wonderful! i love all the decorations. so many wonderful ideas! and the bride is just beautiful!!
~Connie, reader
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photographer austin gros | day of coordinator cari moretz - socially circled | catering moe's mobile | flowers sam's club | bouquet & boutonniere making arrangements | butterflies fragrant acres butterfly farm | wedding cake & pies piece-a-cake bakery | wedding invitations baumbirdy | veil velvet owl | guest book bleu de toi | just married sign celebrate with fun | venue private residence | utensils birchware.com | dress claire pettibone via dream bridal | makeup darin wright of elea blake cosmetics | favor bags scrap bits | print for bags joceybella designs
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STUNNING in
Sonoma
photography by tanja lippert
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From the bride... Our wedding was a culmination of almost a year and half of planning. Looking back now, I see what was meaningful and what was crazy-making. I had envisioned long farm tables and globe lights and picked up other style ideas along the way. I love champagne and pretty things so that is what I gravitated towards. to see the full wedding, click here.
Some things were incredibly meaningful, so I made them priorities even if no one else noticed. I made the jam favors with local Portland raspberries and my Grandmas much-loved recipe. We also went for music that we really listen to, which is how we ended up switching our first dance song to Atlantic City by The Band literally two minutes before we started dancing! In the end, it was just a beautiful day that really was over so fast.
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I look at this
blog all the time and this wedding is by far my favorite! gorgeous ... every detail.
~ Katie, reader
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photographer tanja lippert photography | wedding hair & makeup tia reagan of freebird productions | wedding design & execution mary ellen murphy of off the beaten path weddings | officiant steve thrush | location winery in healdsburg, ca | catering peloton catering | wedding dress & hair flower amsale style calista | bridesmaid dresses varied | groomswear j.crew | wedding cupcakes karas cupcakes | invitations elum and paperwhite of petaluma, ca | flowers la belle fleur design | hotel the farmhouse inn | flower girl dress nastershum | potted succulents, chalkboard and chicken wire windows, escort cards, seat numbers, guest book, & jam the bride (and husband and family!)
Rustic Elegance
photography by jose villa
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From the bride... We wanted an outdoor event in a unique location with lots of personal touches. As a photographer, the visual aspect of every detail was the most important thing for me. Every decision was based on how it would photograph the light and ambience. We were lucky enough to have one of my best friends and bridesmaids, Ashlee, offer her ranch as the location for our reception. It was exactly what we were looking for and set the perfect mood for the event. to see the full wedding, click here.
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Family and friends played a huge role in the decor of the wedding. My bridesmaid Nicole created the runners for all the tables, my aunt Terry created the signs that pointed to horseshoes, dancing and cocktails, my cousin Sara found antique chandeliers and old doors that created tables over wine barrels. I also asked several members of our families prior to the wedding to locate vintage plates in their area, and they served as the plates for our table settings, each unique and decorated with a fresh gardenia.
B eing a wedding photographer, finding the perfect photographer to capture our day was extremely important. jose villa couldn't have been a better fit for the type of wedding we wanted to have and how we wanted to remember it.
~The Bride
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wedding photography jose villa | ceremony venue regan beach, south lake tahoe | reception venue willow stay ranch, private residence | wedding dress: vera wang via ever after | bride's shoes christian louboutin | jewelry maria elena via ever after | bridal kimono custom by plum pretty sugar | garter custom by florrie mitton couture | bridesmaid dresses vera wang via boca raton bridal | groom's suit ermenegildo zegna | catering bella vita catering | wedding cake the cork & more | cupcakes russells mercantile | wine ironstone vineyards | rentals classic party rentals sacramento + the entertainer + genoa tree farm | flowers art in bloom continued...
ceremony music avalanche music | reception music jeff campbell music | linens custom by sewin' oats | invitations kari dyas | invitation calligraphy hilary williams | seating chart calligraphy sally jose (brownhorse.1@netzero.net) | hair acqua hair design | welcome bags proforma albrecht & co. | parasols luna bazaar | welcome cruise the tahoe queen via zephyr cove resort &
lake tahoe cruises

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Eclectic
PERFECTION
by caroline tran photographer
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From Caroline of Caroline Tran Photography Elizabeth is a designer, and Jamie is a writer. Tricia did an AMAZING job personalizing the decor pages from old books to wrap the candles, flowers growing out of vintage typewriter & sewing machines, old thread spools in the decor. Specific flowers were chosen to represent their background too cotton from North Carolina, thistle for his Scottish background, acorn from her childhood. to see the full wedding, click here.
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They brought the church to their ceremony by putting old church pews and old barn doors under a 200-yearold sycamore tree. Details galore. The reception took place in a barn. All the tableware was vintage china. There was a make your own pot of tea station, which I dont think has been done before all with real vintage tea sets.
E lizabeth's mom
hand-picked raw cotton from north carolina for tricia to use in which she made a cotton wreath and incorporated them into the boutonnieres, to name a few. everything was styled so beautifully and naturally.
~ Caroline Tran, photographer
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wedding photography caroline tran | wedding planning & production kelly oshiro design | florals, event design, props, draping & china tricia fountaine | venue rancho dos pueblos | wedding dress claire pettibone | rentals town & country event rentals | lighting ambient event design | dj johnny hawkes | catering bread + wine catering | wedding cake christine dahl pastries | bathroom hollywood honeywagon | transportation sta | makeup kelly shew | hair sunny lee | plantable programs invitesite | ceremony & cocktail hour music javier orman & tom ferrl of duo del sol | chocolate mousse mother of the bride
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all out glamour in
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Charlott e
photography by kristin vining
From the bride... Our wedding was a reflection of how we are as a couple simple and full of love for each other. We both allowed our raw emotions to show, and it made for a more special day between the two of us. As for the wedding itself, we had an amazing band that definitely rocked the house! We wanted people to enjoy the food, music and have tons of fun. to see the full wedding, click here.
My favorite part of the wedding was spending all day getting ready at the Westin Presidential Suite with our family and wedding party. It was so much fun! We drank champagne, had a catered lunch and even danced! We all had a blast! Scott and I had the opportunity to celebrate all day together.
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A bsolutely stunning!
incredible inspiration for a simple and classic wedding.
~ Jessica, reader
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wedding photography kristin vining photography | wedding planner rebecca farlow | wedding cake haines barksdale of for goodness cakes | floral design the place for flowers | wedding dress tomasina via saks fifth avenue | reception dress modern trousseau via hayden olivia bridal | bride's shoes badgley mischka via endless | bridesmaids Dresses: jim hjelm via new york bride & groom | veil saks fifth avenue | hair & makeup lindsey regan thorne of be pretty | wedding invitations & paper goods papitre | entertainment the band of oz via east coast entertainment | ceremony location first united methodist church | wedding reception location the mint museum uptown | catering best impressions | rentals creative solutions | accommodations the westin charlotte | clutch mia von mink | necklace stella & dot | bracelet nordstrom | transportation rose transportation best of style me pretty 2011 | 65
Modern Whimsy in wine country

photography by carlie statsky
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From Bliss Event Productions... Jess and Tim decided to host their wedding at the gorgeous Cornerstone Sonoma property. Jess conveyed to me that she wanted a soft and sweet vintage feel that still incorporated a wine country flavor. Tim has a background in architecture and wanted to incorporate a more modern look with clean lines. We began with a soft color palette and to meet Tims want of modern, we kept all tables and bars in the barn reception area square wood and absent of linens. to see the full wedding, click here.
Carlie Statsky captured the sheer beauty of the day, starting with the lovely couple and down to the details. Overall, it was a great mix of details that personified Jess and Tims visions and personalities. A super sweet and soft wedding for a modern and sweet couple!
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I love this wedding

so much. it's almost like a virtual vacation looking at these pictures ... so soft, relaxed, and lovely!
~ Heather, reader
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event design & planning bliss event productions | photography carlie statsky photography | flowers flowerwild | letterpress invitations brown sugar design | programs tiffany chin | bridesmaid dresses j.crew | location cornerstone sonoma | catering elaine bell catering | lighting got light? | wedding dress junko yoshioka | menswear indochino | linen rentals la tavola | rentals classic party rentals napa/sonoma | decor rentals wine country party | hair & make-up mimi & taylor salon | photobooth magnolia booth | cake sweet on cake | officiant wine country minister | dj pacific entertainment | bride's shoes vivienne westwood
W ow what an absolutely
gorgeous wedding! her ring is stunning! i love the bridesmaid dress, all the florals, and the photography is perfect! love love love it! ~ Kris, reader
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AntiqueElegance in
SAN DIEG O
photography by studio castillero
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From Wynn Austin Jessica & JJ met in high school and knew of each other but had never really had the opportunity to get to know each other. From JJs perspective, he always admired Jessica from a distance and had always thought of her as the girl who was out of his league. It was about four years later when fate brought them back together. to see the full wedding, click here.
The theme that they had for their wedding was My Whole Heart for My Whole Life. Their elegant, vintageinspired wedding took place at the Santaluz Country Club in San Diego. Jessica wanted a vintage, elegant and romantic wedding infused with the down-to-earth textures of burlap and linen.
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Love!! every detail

from the flowers to the photography!!
~ Mer, reader
A -m-a-z-i-n-g!! these images are

stunning. the couple is gorgeous and the sentiment and details were captured perfectly! seriously breathtaking.
~ Megan, reader
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photographer studio castillero | wedding planner & designer wynn austin fine weddings and events | venue santaluz country club | dessert station wynn austin fine weddings and events | floral design blush botanicals | chandelier, draping & rentals concepts event design | dessert & wedding cake michele coulon dessertier | wedding stationery betsywhite stationery | linens wildflower linen | photobooth classic photbooth | wedding dress oscar de la renta | bride's shoes jimmy choo | music michael tiernan of still listening productions | groom's tux & bridesmaid dresses j.crew | ring pillow
giggleroom on etsy
Romance in Australia
photography by pobke photography
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FromWhite Room Events... Alanna and Tim are the sweetest couple youll ever meet. Their love for each other and for life is palpable, and they are giving and authentic. Styling the wedding turned out to be so much fun as they are both incredibly creative. to see the full wedding, click here.
The ceremony took place underneath the 100-year-old elm trees. These were the perfect shelter and created a sacred space for the couple to take their vows. All in all, this day was perfect, and most importantly this couple are in LOVE. You can feel it in their presence. This makes for a very special wedding day, one that is ceremonious and simply leaves you feeling blessed and happy.
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A wall of envelopes
stood tall behind a beautiful vintage desk. on the desk were little vintage postcards for the guests to write and post to the bride and groom.
~ Emily, White Room Events
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photographer pobke photography | venue carrick hill | caterer red jam catering | event stylist white room events | cinematography cinecraft australia | coordination oncue events | flowers lotus flowers | chairs & ottomans elegant event management | wedding dress custom, annette of melbourne couture | bride's shoes shoes of prey | groom's suit tailors of distinction | flowergirl dresses eliza french couture | pageboy suit fred bracks | bridesmaid dresses forever new | groomsmen suits joseph uzumcu | grooms cufflinks & bride's bouquet pin paloma's nest | letterpress stationery twin ravens press | transportation jag-it in style | balloons balloons galore | sparklers lombard paper | desserts sweet treats cakes and cupcakes | cookies spoon & fork | cakes sugar & spice cakes | celebrant richard lawley of i do forever | makeup dale dorning of d & d solutions | bride's hair tania lonardo | bridesmaid's hair kabuki hair | bride and bridesmaid's nails polished beauty | ceremony music lamour vocal ensemble | reception band tania savelli of melodies by tania | wedding rings dds diamonds | accommodations medina grand adelaide treasury hotel best of style me pretty 2011 | 85
EAST COAST CHIC

by jen huang photography
86 | best
From the bride... We chose our venue because it was a crisp, clean palatte/blank canvas, unlike a lot of places where you have to go with and work around an already established design theme. I loved that we were able to create an atmosphere that reflected our style from this already fabulous space. to see the
full wedding, click here.

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We thought it would be special to have our guests experience a new space, decorated and laid out in a new and interesting way for each part of the evening. When starting the design process, I pictured a chic, very crisp and clean feel for the ceremony. I wanted it to be about us, the beauty of the ocean and the sculpted green grass with crushed white shells shaping the aisle and surrounding our guests and John and I as we exchanged our own written vows to each other.
O nce dinner was over, i wanted to use the element of surprise not only by moving our guests to the other side of the property but by showing them a completely different feel and atmosphere. i wanted everyone to step into that hot pink and black and white-striped sprawling room and think now this is going to be a party! and it was! ~ The Bride
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wedding photography jen huang photography | wedding videography hello super 8 | event planning jz events | dj generation events | floral design & candy bar the green vase | rentals taylor creative | wedding dress oscar de la renta via mark ingram bridal atelier | bride's shoes christian louboutin | bridesmaid dresses lulakate | make-up clair marshall | hair butterfly studio | cocktail band bon musique | lighting high output | transportation viking tours of newport | wedding cake montilios
Winter Romance
photography by leo patrone
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From the bride... I have always been passionate about my family, friends and the mountains where I grew up. When the love of my life asked me to be his wife, it didnt take us long to decide to tie the knot in my hometown of Park City, Utah. Since we share a love of skiing and snowboarding, we thought a winter wedding would be a perfect setting to bring our closest friends and family together to celebrate. to see the full
wedding, click here.

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Since we live over 2,000 miles away in New York City, we knew we needed help bringing our Park City vision to life. Luckily, we found the fabulous Meredith Parsons of Bluebird Events who designed a wedding that was perfectly us and took over the logistics so we could enjoy every second of the weekend with our families. I got most of my inspiration from wedding blogs (especially SMP!) and knew I wanted dcor that had a warm, organic wintery feel. Meredith and her team made this feeling a reality for Brian and me, and we couldnt have been happier.
O ur wedding
weekend was more significant and more filled with love than brian and i ever imagined possible and we feel so blessed.
~The Bride
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wedding photography leo patrone photography | wedding planner meredith parsons of bluebird events | wedding ceremony location st. marys old town chapel | wedding reception location the riverhorse caf | dj michael antonia of the flashdance | wedding dress watters via lovely bridal shop | wedding invitations bella figura | floral design amanda hansen, decoration, inc. | calligraphy melinda mraz | bride's headpiece feathers & frills | make-up delilah gervais of splendor beauty emporium | groom's suit custom | welcome party location high west whiskey distillery & saloon | bridesmaid dresses j.crew | bride's stole vintage | rehearsal dinner location private residence | rehearsal dinner catering savoury kitchen
MODERN GLAM
photography by augie chang
IN SAN FRANCISCO
100 | best
From Amaze Special Events... Karman and Jae's wedding was all about the details, details, details. We found the perfect traditional San Francisco home updated inside with gorgeous, contemporary touches. The whole event had a soft and romantic feel, grouped together with a modern edge. We really kept to the soft palette of ballet pink and peach mixed with gray and earth tones. to see the full
wedding, click here.

As guests arrived, the breath-taking view of the ceremony, as well as music, drinks and homemade cookie treats awaited them. Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour inside while admiring the house, a dinner reception outside enclosed by drapery and bamboo trees with two different complimentary tabletop designs, and ended the night with dancing and sweets.
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O h my gosh.
i want to dive into this wedding and stay there forever!
~ Amy, reader
104 | best
event design & planning amaze special events | photography augie chang photography | cinematography justin fone productions | flowers nicole ha floral designs | ceremony location inspiration point, san francisco | reception location white palace, san francisco | hair /make-up professional makeup artistry | officiant pastor olson | ceremony music an elegant touch of strings | caterer grace street catering | dj spintronix | lighting & drapery enhanced lighting and sound | linens la tavola | rentals hartmann design studio and blue print studio | cake jen's cakes | transportation corinthian international parking | stationery arzeberger stationers
Seaside Cool in Malibuv
photography by shannon lee images
106 | best
From the bride... When we first started planning, we knew we wanted to do a beach wedding, as it has been a central part of our relationship. Weve shared so many happy evenings at the beach walking our dog and enjoying the sunset.We contemplated a destination wedding but realized that there are so many gorgeous beaches right here in Los Angeles, the same place that we know and love as home. to see the

108 | best
One of the aspects of the venue itself that appealed to me is the nautical flair in its decor. I liked the classic theme so much that I decided to use it for our wedding decorations as well. The navy color lends itself to the nautical theme, plus I have always loved blues. We decided that rather than using solid navy, we would introduce various navy and white patterns into the decorations. For the flowers, I wanted a color that was both fun and unique, but would also compliment the navy. Our wedding coordinator suggested shades of peach and coral, and I loved the idea.
W e were thrilled when we found sunset restaurant. it is located on gorgeous zuma beach in malibu, the food is delicious, and the venue has a charming cape cod feel that is rare in southern california. we knew immediately that this was the location for us.
~The Bride
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wedding photography shannon lee images | event design & coordination katy carrier events | venue sunset restaurant | other photography locations the georgian hotel + viceroy santa monica | makeup & hair briana of artistry by briana | wedding cake & desserts cake goodness | wedding cinematography new classic wedding films | dj martin of waveform events llc | wedding dress elizabeth fillmore | reception dress miss tashina | floral design enchanted garden floral design | officiant eric schwartz | stationery katy carrier events | musicians rebecca of subito strings | rentals versatile la | men's suits kenneth cole | bridesmaid dresses bari jay | menus & programs krystle parabot | bracelet nadri | ring & earrings mother of the bride | bride's shoes nina
Alfresco Chic
IN NAPA VALLEY
photography by lisa lefkowitz
112 | best
From Gloria Wong Design We decided to create a concept based on the idea that Beaulieu Garden was Leslie and Jeff s summer home, to which theyve invited guests to spend an enchanting evening. Therefore, we infused elements that you would normally find in Leslie and Jeff s apartment (i.e. modern lamps, gold dishes with keys, newspapers, Leslies favorite Antipodes water from New Zealand, framed art, interesting books, cashmere throws, comfy pillows, etc.). to see the full wedding, click here.
L eslie and jeff

described their style as clean, classic modern. so we tried to present their personal belongings in a neat, edited manner.
~Gloria Wong Design
114 | best
Leslie also mentioned that she wanted her guests to feel as if they had woken from a summer reverie. We felt that we could capture a dream-like quality with our use of tone on tone color. For a blended look, we decided on infusing gradations of pink and aqua, two of Leslies favorite colors, wherever we could. We neutralized the soft palette with whites, greys and beiges. For a touch of luxe, we threw in some gold as an accent!
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photographer lisa lefkowitz | wedding planner jubilee lau events | wedding designer gloria wong design | wedding venue beaulieu garden | caterer paula leduc fine catering | floral design nancy liu chin designs | wedding gown vera wang | bride's shoes manolo blahnik | bridesmaid dresses j.crew | wedding stationery good on paper | letterpress printing accucolor plus, inc. | calligraphy tracy joe calligraphy | event lighting got light? | event rentals classic party rentals + la tavola linen | wedding cake cake coquette | dj a. long music | wedding cinematography weddings on film | ceremony music lawrence strings group | photobooth magnolia photo booth co. | makeup christine craven makeup | hair kien hoang
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Sassy So-Cal
photography by kirsten ellis of beaux arts photographie
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From the bride... Its funny that I wrote about our wedding for nearly a year before it happened, and now that its over, I can barely string a sentence together that will accurately capture, contain, or recreate the magic of that September day. That said, Ill try my best to give you the long version, but the short version is this: it was awesome! We knew from the start that we wanted a casual and fun outdoor wedding with good food, good music, and good people. Basically we wanted to throw a really fun and extremely meaningful little party, and call it a wedding. to see the full wedding, click here.
The community that rallied around our wedding was truly amazing. Our friends and family cleaned our house, did our hair and make-up, hung lights and cranes in the trees, tended bar, DJd, and surrounded us with so much love and support that I still get chills thinking about it! To be surrounded by so much LOVE is some rare and strong magic, and while I still dont feel Ive done it justice, I hope youve been able to catch even a tiny glimmer of it through these jumbled words and beautiful photos.
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W ow! i love the bouquet!! so

unique... stunning!
~Bead Flora
W hat a beautiful
wedding!! the pictures are just wonderful! i love all the decorations. so many wonderful ideas! and the bride is just beautiful!!
~ Connie
adore everything about your wedding, from the way it looks to your stories of how it felt. i am excitedly planning my own [wedding] and am feeling more inspired than ever thanks to the inspiration you've shared! thank you!
~Kirsten, reader
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photographer kirsten ellis of beaux arts photographie | wedding venue heritage square museum
kogi truck | ice cream sandwiches cool haus | floral design diy | invitations diy | save the dates stinkerpants designs | day of coordination just wenderful | tabitha's dress sarah seven (borrowed from a fellow blogger) | tabitha's shoes miu miu | tabitha's earrings larkspur & hawk | tabitha's veil diy | cythnia's dress urban outfitters | cynthia's shoes melissa + vivienne westwood | cynthia's fascinator diy | cynthia's suit h&m
| catering
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Destination
mexico
photography by sarah yates
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From the bride... Margaritas, fish tacos and a vision of vintage Mexico inspired our Sayulita wedding.We were in search of a town where time slowed and fishing boats, surfers and dogs littered the sand. Nothing too perfect or pristine a Mexico that is still full of authentic charm, dirt roads, women making churros in the town square, lush landscaping and not a tour bus in sight. to see the full wedding, click here.
Villa Amor was everything we wanted. It felt like a place lost in time villas nestled in hillsides, hidden doors and winding staircases. Our ceremony was held under trees overlooking the ocean, followed by a cocktail hour with mariachis and margaritas. A 200-step climb up the crumbling and twisting brick staircases led to the reception a breathtaking cobblestone plateau overlooking all of Sayulita and the ocean.
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W e fell in love with

the idea of mexico years ago on a trip for a friend's wedding and knew we would someday be married there.
~ The Bride
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photography sarah yates | venue villa amor, sayulita, mexico | designs, florals, papergoods bride's company, sitting in a tree | coordination myka haddad of sitting in a tree | dj michael antonia of the flashdance | cinematography austin hendrix productions | ceremony dress mish mash of two dresses from nordstrom rack | veil tea dyed and created by bride's mom | reception dress haute hippie | floral headpiece untamed petals | desserts emma chapman, sister of the bride | engraved forks lisa leonard |gelato gelato mio | maid of honor vera wang with added handmade flowers | groom calvin klein | bride's shoes report signature via nordstrom rack
VintageChic in
OREGON
photography by erich mcvey
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From the bride... Brent and I have been friends since 7th grade, where we met somewhere between instant messaging and middle school dances. In high school, we continued to stay friends as my best friends would always hang out with his best friends on the weekends. Between multiple dances, dates and relationships within various people in our crowds, the Brent-Liz love story never happened until nine years into our friendship. to see the full wedding, click here.
Fast forward to February 2010 Brent told me he loved me (First girl Brent loved. First boy I loved and last for both of us). Then came December 2010, and we were engaged and planning away! We are blessed with amazing friends and family, and without those lovely little faces there, the wedding wouldnt have been as perfect and memorable. Along with that, the thought and care that went into planning the Sara-table meant a lot to me. Sara was one of my best friends, roommates and bridesmaids who passed away two months before the wedding due to cancer. It (the Sara-table) was one of the ways I wanted to honor Sara since she was watching from above, but not physically at our wedding.
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O bsessed!
love everything about this wedding. love the necklaces, the lipstick, the veil, the shoes, the lemons. the groom is way handsome too. gorgeous photos. what's not to love?!
~ Karen, reader
My
favorite wedding this summer! love every detail ... and the bride's style is incredible. the photographer captured the day perfectly.
~ Vanessa, reader
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photographer erich mcvey photography | wedding dress watters | flowers jodi beals | videography nate baston videography | venue green villa gardens | planning liz (the bride) is a planner at class act events | day of planning ginger lushenko from green villa gardens | music kevin venables from nw mobile dj service | groom's suit j.crew | bridesmaid dresses asos | hair & makeup helena albanese | bride's yellow necklace nordstrom | bridesmaids' shoes urban outfitters | bride's veil ania's bridal | wedding newspaper fivepluszero design | bridesmaids' headbands oh!baby designs - salem, or
midwest
photography by arrow and apple
M agic
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From the bride... When Jeremy and I envisioned our wedding day, we wanted it to be really personal. Im a designer and hes a song writer, so we spent a lot of time and energy on pretty visuals and our music selection. I own a boutique, and we chose to host our ceremony on the third floor of our building, above my shop. The space is open with huge windows and peeling wallpaper. We loved the idea of holding our ceremony here because we knew wed be the first couple ever to get married in that spot! to see the
Our reception was styled with vintage lamps, lace and jewel tones. My favorite details were the raspberry cupcakes and the hand painted holga cameras on the tables. We chose signature cocktails including a raspberry mojito, and for dinner, we chose heart shaped pancakes. My favorite memory from the reception was when we were dancing. I told Jeremy that I was so happy and he said, Im sad its almost over. I thought that was cute. Always a good thing to hear from your husband after so many long months of wedding planning!
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I n our memories
the day has a warm glow about it. we loved every moment!
~Elsie, the Bride
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photography arrow & apple | cinematography goodwin films | ceremony venue above elsie's red velvet boutique in springfield, missouri | reception design sharon taylor at pickwick house | reception venue savoy ballroom | shoes red shoes are harajuku lovers from modcloth, silver shoes are swedish hasbeens from shopolivine.com | bride's dress orla kiely via bhldn | hair holly neufeld and Sarah lockhart | invitations ello there | flowers handmade by bridesmaids | desserts emma chapman, sister of the bride | engraved forks lisa leonard | gelato gelato mio | fringe banners nice | bridesmaid's dresses vintage + modcloth | bride's headpiece vintage | men's ties vintage
Elysium Productions
Destination CINEMATOGRAPHY
Photo Credit: Marisa Holmes
Celebrations
Destination EVENT PLANNING
Blue Nile
Destination JEWELRY
Hilary Miles Flowers

International Canada FLORALS
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VENDOR SPOTLIGHTS
Moore Photography
International Canada PHOTOGRAPHY
Mediamorfosis Wedding Cinematography

International Mexico CINEMATOGRAPHY
TEAM Hair and Makeup

Photo Credit: Jose Villa
Laura Hooper Calligraphy

Photo Credit: Steve Steinhardt
California BEAUTY
California CALLIGRAPHY
Just Cake
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Contemporary Catering and Event Production

California CATERING
XOXO Bride
California EVENT PLANNING
Photo Credit: Braedon Flynn
Amaze Special Events

Photo Credit: Kim and NIki Photographers
California EVENT PLANNING
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VENDOR SPOTLIGHTS
Jessica Foster Confections

California DESSERT FAVORS
Photo Credit: Kristen Johansen
Fleurs de France
California FLORALS AND EVENT DESIGN
Photo Credit: Brianna-Marie Photography
Waterlily Pond Florals and Event Design

California FLORALS AND EVENT DESIGN
Photo Credit: Erin Beach Photography
The Langham Huntington, Pasadena

California VENUE
Frosted Pink Weddings

Colorado EVENT PLANNING
Photo Credit: Zorn Photography
Villa Parker Cultural and Event Center

Photo Credit: Tyler Jones Photography
Colorado VENUE
Sixpence For Your Shoe

Photo Credit: e. broderick photography
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Photo Credit: Emily Harris Photography
Connecticut EVENT PLANNING
Florida FLORALS
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VENDOR SPOTLIGHTS
Parrish Designs
Florida FLORALS AND EVENT DESIGN
MMD Events
Florida FLORALS AND EVENT DESIGN
Photo Credit: Limelight Photography
HBB Photography
Florida PHOTOGRAPHY
Harwell Photography
Georgia PHOTOGRAPHY
Lily Red Studio

Illinois INVITATIONS
Allison Barnhill Designs

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Ryan
Maryland INVITATIONS
Delicious Desserts
Photo Credit: Catch Light Images
Massachusetts CAKE
Konditor Meister
Massachusetts CAKE
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VENDOR SPOTLIGHTS
EFD Creative
Event Planning & Design
Photo Credit: Kristin Spencer Photography
Massachusetts EVENT PLANNING
Jess + Nate Studios

Michigan PHOTOGRAPHY
Naakiti Floral Design

Nevada FLORALS AND EVENT DESIGN
Main Street Fine Catering

New Jersey CATERING
Images by Berit
New Jersey PHOTOGRAPHY
Mr. Boddington Studio

New York INVITATIONS
Gulnara Studio Photography

New York PHOTOGRAPHY
Bald Head Island Club

North Carolina VENUE
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VENDOR SPOTLIGHTS
Luxe Event Productions

Oregon EVENT PLANNING
Details With Love

Photo Credit: Adeline & Grace Photography
Rhode Island EVENT PLANNING
Maggie Gillespie Designs

Texas EVENT PLANNING
Photo Credit: Jennifer Lindberg
Old Glory Ranch

Photo Credit: Shawn Childress Photography
Texas VENUE
Dolce Parties
Virginia EVENT PLANNING
Photo Credit: Christian Oth
Geomyra Lewis Weddings & Events

Photo Credit: Tiana Simpson Photography
Virginia EVENT PLANNING
Atrendy Wedding
Washington DC EVENT PLANNING
Photo Credit: Kate Headley
Pretty Plum Sugar Loungerie

Virtual Services BRIDESMAID
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VENDOR SPOTLIGHTS
Rosann Konieczny Calligrapher

Virtual Servies CALLIGRAPHY
Olivia Luca
Photo Credit: Brandon Perron
Virtual Services FASHION
BeeGee Bags LLC

Virtual Services FASHION ACCESSORIES
WeddingWindow.com
Virtual Services WEDSITES
J
peppermint bliss
photo by aaron delesie
My favorite part was walking back down the aisle as husband and wife. We were clutching each other's hands, and I was in tears (of course!); our friends jumped to their feet, and the music was "Be My Baby" by the Ronettes. I' d highly recommend choosing an upbeat song for your recessional, instead of something slow and quiet you' ll be so giddy that it will match your mood, and it will be a fun, exciting way to get the party started! ~ Joanna
Behind th
A trip down the aisle with so
In all the craziness of planning the wedding, don't forget about the ceremony. It is easy to overlook that part of the day and defer to tradition, but the ceremony is kind of the point of the whole thing. Take time to choose readings and music that are meaningful to you. Our priest worked with us and got to know us, and the homily really spoke to our relationship. As over-the-top as our wedding was, the ceremony is the thing that we get the most compliments about to this day. Also, sparkle plenty. If your dream is to have, oh, say a Willy Wonka-themed wedding and wear a gold dress, then do it. If you don't who will? ~ Bailey
photo by max wanger
cup of jo
photo by michele m. waite

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ioo layer cake
To me planning a DIY wedding means that you are personally and intimately invested in the details of your celebration because you hope to throw a party that is meaningful to the two of you as a couple. But the thing is that even if you start with grand plans, it's okay to hire someone to execute them in the end, or to totally skip projects that are going to make the process more stressful than enjoyable. Ultimately, the goal is to thoroughly enjoy every moment of your wedding day with your husband. Do what you can up to a certain point, and then pop a bottle of champagne and start the celebration! ~ Kristina
L he Screen
photo by jess + nate studios
ome of our favorite bloggers
Looking back, my favorite memory has to be from our ceremony vows. It was such an emotional moment for us, more than we ever imagined it would be. Seeing each other as husband and wife for the first time was so much more than either of us had anticipated. My advice is that it is A-OK if things do not go perfectly. It only makes your wedding day that much more memorable. Having a wedding in Michigan in the winter meant we were running the risk of having a snowy day, which could mean guests wouldn't be able to attend. Lo and behold, on the day of our wedding, we woke up to one of the worst blizzards they've had in a long while. By nightfall the snow got lighter and roads cleared a bit. We were so grateful and lucky to see that all of our guests came to celebrate the day with us, and we had a great story to tell to boot! ~ Amanda
ruffled
My wedding took place on November 10th, 2007, at a private home in Sayulita, MX. It was everything we imagined, intimate, casual and totally DIY. Everyone played a part in our wedding, which is the most memorable and touching part of our wedding experience. While it was what I dreamed, now that I run a blog and look at beautiful weddings over and over, I wish I had sucked it up and hired a photographer. Hard to believe right? Our good friend took pics but he wasn't a wedding photographer and you get what you pay for. Also, we didn't do tons of table decor. That's something I wish I had payed more attention to, but the great thing was we picked a breathtaking venue, which made up for things that were lacking in the decor department. That's the best advice I' d give anyone planning a wedding on a budget. Make sure you pick a venue that has the vibe you are looking for and doesn't need a lot of fluff to make it special. Good luck, and happy planning! ~ Jillian
ioo layer cake

J
green wedding shoes
photo by anna page
Behind th
In picking a favorite memory when I look back at our wedding, there are two. The first was our first look. Just the two of us and a chance to see each other alone and talk about how excited we were that day. I can't describe it, but it was so amazing to finally see each other! Then we spent an hour walking around our venue (a nature preserve on a wooded hill above Lake Michigan) taking photos, talking and laughing. My very close second moment was walking down the aisle. It was perfect underneath hundreds of trees with my eyes only on Jason. ~ Jen
A trip down the aisle with so
Brides often ask me my thoughts on first looks - basically, doesn't it ruin walking down the aisle? To me, the answer is no. Walking down the aisle was still amazing and one of my favorite moments ever! I recommend couples do what they want. But our first look, the hour afterwards with just the two of us (that is really the only time that day it is just the two of you), and walking down the aisle were some of my most favorite memories. And pick a song you love for your walk down the aisle! Whenever I hear our song (which isn't that often since it isn't very common) I'm transported back to that moment which I just love. ~ Jen
photo by solstice images
once wed
Remember to enjoy your wedding day. It will go by in a flash! ~ Emily

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L he Screen
ome of our favorite bloggers
I highly recommend a surprise wedding! I smile every time I remember the look of absolute shock on our guests' faces, the collective cheers, the explosion of pure joy that surrounded us in that moment when we revealed to our guests that we were actually getting married right then and there! It was a perfect moment we shall never forget. ~ Amy
photo by jonathan ong
eat drink chic
We were young and madly in love. We were best friends - we still are. Nine years later and I'm still smiling... ~ Mrs. Lilien
young house love

photo by todd wright
DIYing nearly our entire wedding could have been amazingly stressful, and it was pretty intimidating for a few months until we started thinking about it for what it was: a big happy party in our yard to celebrate our love with friends and family. Taking the big "wedding" word out of it suddenly opened our eyes to more creative ideas and took the pressure off somehow. Just take the whole wedding planning thing one day at a time and feel free to call it a "party" if you're feeling overwhelmed by the "W" word! ~ Sherry
mrs. lilien styling house

From coast to gorgeous coast, SMP Canada is a little something Canadian chic for every style of bride.
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Style Me Pretty's Best of 2011

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2011

A Year in Review of Style Me Pretty's Best

style me pretty magazine | bridal inspirations | volume two

of style me pretty 2011

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local blog network

where wedding planning in your area is made so very easy

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from THE EDITOR

2011. the year of fabulous.

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photography by erin hearts court

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The photos, stellar, the bridesmaids dress

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S ome of the special memories that were unforgettable during

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photography by tanja lippert

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lake tahoe cruises

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all out glamour in

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