I want to become a society lady Rockin' a new rock?!

Meghan and Dan chose to get married in Santa Barbara because it was the location of the first vacation they took as a couple. Santa Barbara Historical Museum provided the perfect backdrop for the floral-filled event designed and planned by Jane Alexandra EventsVelvet Blooms created colorful, floral bliss at—literally—every turn and the result is a cheerful, sunny celebration and it’s all captured on film in these stunning images by Rebecca Theresa Photography.

Click to expand for more

What made the wedding day special and unique?

We chose to get married in Santa Barbara because it was the first vacation we took as a couple, for 4th of July in 2013, and we had spent many wonderful weekends there since that first trip. Meghan also grew up going to Santa Barbara for vacations with family. Meghan and Dan put a lot of thought into their guests’ experience and ultimately chose Santa Barbara Historical Museum as their venue because of its location in downtown Santa Barbara and the option to have the ceremony and reception at the same site. They wanted the venue to have a classic Santa Barbara feel because nearly all of their guests were from out of town and they wanted to share the beauty of the city with them. Meghan and Dan also had their very talented friend Krista Doersch design all of the invitations and paper goods, so they were completely custom and turned out better than the couple could have ever imagined. Krista even learned how to water color just for Meghan and Dan!

Tell us about the gown and where/ how you found it?

Meghan’s gown was Wtoo by Watters from Lili Bridals in Tarzana. Meghan tried on dozens of gowns over several occasions — she knew what she wanted, she just couldn’t find it. Luckily Lili Bridals hosted a Watters trunk show and Meghan was able to see a wide variety of gowns from the brand. She knew she had found “the” gown because she couldn’t stop thinking about it when she tried on a few more gowns afterward, and because she kept thinking about it as “my dress” when she went home that night. The gown was beautifully altered by Sonya of Lili Bridals. Meghan is glad that she didn’t give up on finding her perfect wedding gown!

What were some touches added to make the wedding personal?

The couple wanted to honor Meghan’s mom and Dan’s dad, both of whom passed away. Meghan’s mom Mickey was an avid gardener and Meghan knew she wanted to honor her through the wedding flowers. Rachel Burch of Velvet Blooms created two planter boxes for the end of the aisle filled with flowers from Mickey’s garden and put a single iris, Mickey’s favorite flower, into the bridal bouquet. The couple chose to honor Dan’s dad Joe by having a Budweiser toast at the reception, Joe’s drink of choice. It was important to the couple that Mickey and Joe’s presence be felt on their wedding day and they were able to accomplish that with the help of their vendors.

What was the most memorable part of the day?

A bee got stuck in the bride’s gown right before the first dance. Luckily, Meghan had the world’s best bridesmaids, who along with their dates, helped get the bee out moments before the DJ cued the music. Meghan and Dan took dance lessons and practiced the dance over and over, but they just couldn’t have anticipated that happening!

Tell us how you met and became engaged.

Meghan was accepted into a summer program in Leuven, Belgium and the couple decided to travel in Europe together beforehand. They started their trip in London and spent their second afternoon in St. James Park. After a few hours, Meghan was ready to get going on the next activity, in part because she was so tired she fell asleep on a park bench! Meghan became grumpy when Dan insisted they spend just a little more time in the park and was especially cranky when Dan kept fiddling on his phone. She went to wait it out under a tree and a few minutes later, heard the sounds of a camera shutter as Dan walked over to join her. It turns out, Dan had been texting the professional photographer he had hired their exact location in order to capture the moment. Dan’s proposal was one of the happiest moments of Meghan’s life and encapsulates much of what makes Dan a great partner — his thoughtfulness, his generosity and of course, his patience!

Photography: Rebecca Theresa Photography // Planning and Design: Jane Alexandra Events // Florals: Velvet Blooms // Stationery & Signage: Krista Doersch (friend of the couple!) // Venue: Santa Barbara Historical Museum // Dress Designer: Wtoo by Watters // Dress Boutique: Lili Bridals // Beauty: Cheek to Cheek // Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Yoo // Catering: Pure Joy Catering // DJ: VOX DJs // Live Music Jazz Trio: Jake Sucher Music // Tux: Mens Wearhouse // Ice Cream Bar: McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams // Rentals: Ventura Rental Party & Events and Bella Vista Designs Inc.

 

We like
our sponsors

We think you will too.

Katie and Chris celebrated their nuptials with the most romantic, gorgeous, floral-filled elopement Positano and ever seen. Seriously, you guys- it’s SO gorgeous. Planned by The Wedding Boutique Italy, the day centered around the brides vision of “a beautifully intimate wedding, floral and pretty with delicate pastel shades.” Vendors implemented the vision (and more) with florals by The Wedding Boutique Bloom and stunning film images by Lace & Luce. We couldn’t help ourselves—here’s tons of stunning shots from the breathtaking day!

Click to expand for more

Photography: Lace & Luce // Planning: The Wedding Boutique Italy // Florals: The Wedding Boutique Bloom // Hair/Make-up: Alessandro Mancino // Wedding Dress: Monique Llhullier // Bride’s Shoes: Alexandre Birman // Videography:  Luigi De Gregorio // Ring Boxes: The Mrs. Box

 

Selby and Alex were wed in a stunning June ceremony in Athens, Georgia, the home of their alma mater and ages of memories between the couple. From the start, the design of this event was rooted in the beauty of a cool blue color palette, an air of elegance, and the playfulness of a summer fete. Planning and event design by Simply Charming Socials with florals by Lindsay Coletta Floral Artistry & Design and invitations by Charles Willis. Reception was at Athens Cotton Press and all the gorgeous details an moments were captured by Davy Whitener.

Click to expand for more

From the planner: The ceremony took place in front of 300 guests on Herty Field, an iconic location on The University of Georgia’s North Campus. It was the very first football field, and as mentioned in one of their officiant’s tribute to them, a place of passion and glory. The large white tent entrance was draped and accented with greenery, greeting guests with lemonade and programs, while the aisle had growing boxed arrangements and candles every few rows, creating a gorgeous path for the wedding party to process. Other than some soft sheer fabric covering the tent poles, the wedding party was the centerpiece that set the altar area.

Selby was a vision in a dreamy Monique Lhullier bridal gown, with the bridesmaids in long dresses in shades of blue. Alex and the gentleman wore classic tuxedos, Southern-style as the groom wore his boots and a linen bowtie. The kiss was sealed with the customary ringing of the chapel bell, but in this case, a replacement bell needed to be used as the real bell was under construction. The last-minute hiccup didn’t stop the team from ringing in this marriage the proper way, with an old iron dinner bell driven in from miles away.

After the joyful ceremony, guests departed the lawn for the cocktail and reception venue, Athens Cotton Press. The converted warehouse was transformed into a magical dream venue. As guests arrive, they were greeted by with a show-stopping greenery arch and candle entryway, signature cocktails, and passed hors d’oeuvres from Epting Events. Notable details included an illustrated menu with sentimental selections (bison sliders reminding them of Montana, freshly shucked oysters like Florabama) and friend and mixologist creating signature cocktails on the spot. As guests entered the reception area for dinner and merriment, they looked up in wonder at the draped ceiling aglow with string lighting.

Florist Lindsay Coletta set the room so beautifully – a mix of long farm tables with cascading garland and low lush arrangements and round tables with soft flowy fabric, blooms, and candlelight filled the room for guests to enjoy a cozy dinner. This grand affair would not be complete without an incredible live band, Atlanta Rhythm & Groove, who graced the grand stage and had everyone on their feet. As guests mingled in and out of the venue, they passed the front entryway lounge boasting a commissioned art piece for the couple and enjoyed the fire pit as the sun set over Athens. Finally, the married couple was sent off into the night under a sea of sparklers, driving away in a very sentimental vintage getaway car. The groom spent months searching for the exact car his father and best man had in high school. And he found it. The gift to his father was presented that morning and a surprise to all as the couple rode away into the night.

Photography: Davy Whitener // Wedding Planner & Designer: Simply Charming Socials // Florals: Lindsay Coletta Floral Artistry & Design // Invitation Suite: Charles Willis // Ceremony Venue: Herty Field // Reception Venue: Athens Cotton Press // Cinema: Matthew Baxter // Wedding Gown: Monique Lhullier // Bridal Shop: Joan Pillow // Beauty: Hope Ferguson // Draping: Quest Events // Photo Booth: ShutterBooth Atlanta // Catering: Epting Events // Band: Atlanta Rhythm & Groove // Bridesmaid Dresses: Bhldn // Linens: @bbjlinen BBJ Linen // Welcome Bags & Decor: Simply Charming Socials // Officiant: Wes Van Dyk // Officiant: Darrell Huckaby // Ceremony Music: Athens Wedding Music // Rentals: Goodwin Events // Bar & Beverage: Farm 2 Cocktail // Transportation: Atlantic Limousine & Transportation

 

Marina and Jon celebrated their wedding with a personalized day at The Landing 1841, in Burlington Wisconsin. The bride loves to look back at pictures and spot the family heirlooms, like candlesticks and lace that were used throughout the gorgeous day. Florals by Pollen House  are super romantic in a dusty blush palette and touches of blue are woven throughout details like invitations by Wander by Hand. But—hands-down—the blush, three-tired cake by Julie Michelle Cakes steals the show. STUNNING, you guys and you can check it all out in these images byKendra Elise Photography.

 

Click to expand for more

What made the wedding special and unique?

One of the many things I loved about the wedding was our Friends of Honor. We wanted our dearest friends to be a part of our special day but in a unique, unconventional way. We did away with the “standing up” part and instead had a reserved row for our honored guests. Everyone wore mix matched dresses and suits and it came together beautifully. It was a perfect, modern twist on tradition.

Tell us about the gown and where/how you found it! 

Oddly enough, my wedding dress was actually my second choice. There ended up being an issue with my first dress and I had to find a new one just 3 months before the wedding. Coincidentally, I found my dress by a post my wedding photographer had posted on her Instagram. It had exactly what I was looking for- swiss dots! I was able to contact a shop in Chicago, who contacted the designer, who put a rush on the dress and I was lucky enough to have it on my wedding day!

What were some touches added to make the wedding personal?

Several items used that day were family heirlooms and even personal items from our home. We placed pieces like candlesticks and lace throughout the venue and it gave it a very special touch to the day. I love that I can look back at pictures and spot them.

What was the most memorable part of the day?

For me, the most memorable moment was walking down the aisle and getting to see Jon’s expression. There was something both magical and beautiful about it. Watching his face as he saw me for the first time in the dress was a very surreal moment that I will always hold on to. ALSO- playing Kanye West as our recessional song, LOL.

Tell us how you met and became engaged. 

Jon and I actually met in none other than the dental office of all places. We grew up in the same town – only about 3 miles away from each other but never really knew each other. We dated for several years, moved in and out of several apartments, then finally decided to buy a house. A few weeks after closing on our house, Jon proposed in our hew home. It was the best few weeks of our lives – so many new beginnings.

Photography & Videography: Kendra Elise Photography // Florals: Pollen House // Invitations: Wander by Hand // Venue: The Landing 1841 / Burlington, WI // Wedding Dress: Ivy & Aster // Hair & Makeup: Blondie Bridal Artistry // Cake: Julie Michelle Cakes // Table Numbers: Sable Wood Paper Co // Calligraphy: Gun Powder and Ink // Caterer: Gooseberries / Burlington, WI // DJ: Midwest Best DJs // Rentals: Gertrude & Evelyn Vintage Rentals // Linens: BBJ Linens

Loving the happy blue and pink palette of Chrissy and Eric’s big day at Pursell Farms planned by Invision Events. Pink florals in blue and white chinoiserie vessels by Buffy Hargett Flowers dressed the ceremony and reception with gorgeous paper and stationery by Amberly Shelton Paperie. You can check out all the details in these lovely images captured by Anna Shackleford.

Click to expand for more

What made the wedding special and unique?

The entire weekend was wonderful and stress free. Everything went according to plan, and Eric and I didn’t have to worry about anything. Courtney and Julie made my vision of a spring wedding happen and delivered my bright pink flowers and blue and white chinoiserie in the middle of November. It was really nice that almost all of our guests stayed at Pursell Farms. It felt like we were having a giant friends and family reunion to have everyone together!

Tell us about the gown and where/how you found it!

I found my perfect Augusta Jones gown at Carriage House! It was very simple with a sweetheart neckline and full skirt, and I paired it with a pearl beaded lace belt and a long lace veil. My two older sisters also got their dresses from Carriage House, so it was special to return there for my dress.

What were some touches added to make the wedding personal? 

Our minister is one of my best friend’s dad and my family’s hometown preacher, so our ceremony was deeply personal led by him with the addition of writing our own vows. I wore my grandmother’s diamond crescent moon brooch in my hair to have part of her with me during the day. My grandfather gifted us our Waterford cake knife that he and my grandmother had used during their life together. I did all the calligraphy for our wedding. It was a daunting project, but I love the way everything turned out, from the invitations to the welcome sign.

What was the most memorable part of the day? 

We loved our first look, especially considering I was initially against having one. The van taking me up the mountain to meet Eric got stuck in the mud on the way up, but we changed vehicles and finally reached the top. Eric and I exchanged letters and gifts and enjoyed a few quiet moments to ourselves. Our pictures are gorgeous from the mountain top! We also really enjoyed dancing with our friends all night! Our band was so fun, and we had a wonderful time.

Tell us how you met and became engaged.

Eric and I met at Carrigan’s Public House. I was too shy to say hello, so my friend asked him for a drink recommendation. Eric invited us to sit at his table, and we chatted the night away. Usually moving is a terrible chore, but the weekend Eric helped me move into my new apartment was full of smiles and laughter. To celebrate my new place, he brought over flowers and our favorite meal, pizza and a bottle of wine. He asked me to marry him, and we were so giddy we forgot to call our families to share the good news!

Photography: Anna Shackleford // Planning + Design: Invision Events // Florals: Buffy Hargett Flowers // Stationery + Paper Goods: Amberly Shelton Paperie // Venue + Catering: Pursell Farms // Bride’s Dress: Carriage House // Cake: Olexa’s // Calligraphy: Penned By Chrissy // Rentals: Event Rentals Unlimited // Furnishings: Crush Event Rentals // Linens: La Tavola // Entertainment: Emerald Empire Band // Wedding Submission Services: Published + Pretty