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

With a love for European travels and soft elements, Shannon and Matthew wanted their wedding day to reflect something close to Shannon’s heart while also incorporating Matthew’s love for clean, modern touches. Nestled in the foothills of the Colorado mountains, Crooked Willow Farms provided a beautiful backdrop for the day. NuBlu Events and BellaLu Floral Design carefully curated their soft, muted color palette with neutral hues and the slightest hint of blush. Their sweet King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, Oliver, has brought so much joy to their lives and having him join them on their wedding day meant the world. Check out all the beautiful details in these fine art film images captured by photographer,  Katherine Ridgely.

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What made your wedding special and unique? 

We had a beautiful wedding venue, Crooked Willow Farms. With my love of horses and Matthew’s love of the mountains, the location couldn’t have been more perfect. BellaLu Floral created the most gorgeous arrangements that were both natural to the venue and modern.

Tell us about your gown.

I had always imagined having a gown that was classic yet a little less traditional. My wedding gown was partially customized as I was able to modify certain elements to make it truly my own. I absolutely loved the lace detailing on the train!

What were some touches added to make the wedding personal?

To make our wedding day uniquely ours, we added a few personal touches like handwritten seating cards, custom made card holders, wax-stamps, and gold foil touches on our invitation suites.

What was the most memorable part of your wedding day?

The most memorable part of our wedding day was our first look. I was so excited to see Matthew! Just having that quiet moment to ourselves was so special before we shared our vows with our friends and family.

Tell us how you met and became engaged.

Matthew and I met via a dating app called Bumble. Our first date was at a coffee shop here in Denver, Colorado and it was at that time Matthew asked me out on a second date to watch the Banff Film Festival screening later that evening.

I absolutely love horses and thought Matthew was going to propose over the Christmas holiday when were were visiting his family in Ohio. It would have been the perfect setting. Well, on December 10th 2017, Matthew had suggested having a “date day” – this certainly wasn’t uncommon for Matthew! We began our day with church, followed by visiting my favorite coffee shop and park. Soon after, Matthew had mentioned wanting to visit a friend and that this friend of his was more than happy to let us visit with his horses. We absolutely had to go! We pulled up to the beautiful property and walked around the back of the barn where I was greeted by a warm fire, cozy blankets, flowers, and twinkle lights beautifully arranged. Matthew dropped to one knee for the sweetest proposal and moments later, my sweet dog, Oliver, came running out of the barn. The barn door continued opening and I immediately noticed that inside were our closest friends and family members. The day couldn’t have been more perfect!

Photography: Katherine Ridgely // Event Planning and Design: NuBlu Events // Floral Design: BellaLu Floral Design // Venue: Crooked Willow Farms // Film Lab: PhotoVision Prints // Bridal Boutique: Emma and Grace Bridal Studio // Makeup: Makeup By Heather // Hair: Phia Alchemy Salon and Spa // Grooms Attire: Suit Supply // Bow Ties: Huckle Berry Bow Co // Rentals: Event Rents // Dessert Table: Cocoa Bites // Bridesmaids Gowns: Adrianna Papell / Revolve / LuLus / Bridesmaids Social // Cake: Sweet Ride Bakeshop // Catering: Footers Catering and Events // DJ: Skyline Productions

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Michigan couple Kristi and Andy capitalized on the best of the midwest with a celebration on the sprawling, scenic property of The Centennial Barn. We’re smitten with the distinctive dusty rose and deep pink palette of the the floral arrangements by Events By The Day’s Design and waterfall of blooms on the cake by The Cakabakery. The couple make the best of the estate with a ceremony in the forest followed by a barn receptions and beautiful portraits all over the grounds of the farm. Lucky for us Hetler Photography was on hand to capture al the beauty in the crisp autumn air.

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What made the wedding special and unique? 

Andy and I both decided even before we were engaged that we wanted an autumn wedding. We love the beautiful mix of colors, crisp air, and fun activities that the Midwest offers. So we decided to add little autumn touches throughout our wedding as a beautiful way to celebrate a season we love so much. We chose to have a barn wedding, and get ready at an adorable white farmhouse on the property. We also had a wagon to deliver guests to our outdoor ceremony site hidden in the trees, and during the reception we served slices of cake, cinnamon sugar doughnuts, and hot apple cider from our favorite local apple orchard, Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery.

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

I found my gown at Becker’s Bridal, which is tucked away in a little town and been helping brides find their dresses since 1934! So many of the past brides Kellie and I have photographed shared with us that they had chosen their gown there, and had a really great experience, so I new it was a shop I needed to visit when it was my turn to find a wedding dress.

My wedding gown is “Kinley” by Morilee and it was the perfect dress for Andy’s and my Fall wedding. It had everything I was looking for! Romantic lace, princess sleeves, ivory undertones and an ever-flattering fit and flare silhouette. I absolutely loved it and received so many compliments from family and friends when I wore it on my wedding day.

What was the most memorable part of the day?

There were so many memorable moments throughout the day, such as getting ready with my sisters and girlfriends (many of whom flew across the country to be there that day!), having such amazing friends like Kellie and Joe there to photograph our day, and having a private first look together where we each read our handwritten vows to each other. However, one of the most memorable moments actually happened during the ceremony itself.

Our young ring bearer, Silas, took his ring-bearing duties very seriously that day. He decided that instead of sitting down right after our pastor started his welcome speech to the guests, like we had practiced during the rehearsal the day before, he would quietly ignore his older sister Chloe’s urging and stand up front with all the groomsmen, Andy, and our pastor during the entire thirty minute ceremony — all the while still holding his ring box right in front of himself and standing up straight like a soldier.

Tell us how you met and became engaged.

Andy and I actually met online, through a dating app! I was teaching in Grand Rapids at the time, and he was working as a chemical engineer and living in South Haven. We “matched”, chatted through the app for weeks, and then had our first dinner date a local restaurant in Grand Rapids on October 5, 2016. After having such a great time at dinner and meeting each other in person, we exchanged phone numbers and started officially “dating” a couple months later. Andy proposed in November of 2017 — by setting up a “Fall photo session” with Kellie and surprising me at the end with a ring!

Kristi + Andy Wedding Film Teaser from Couture Creative Media on Vimeo.

Photography: Hetler Photography // Florals: Events By The Day’s Design // Stationery: DIY by bride // Venue: The Centennial Barn // Bride’s Gown: Morilee / Becker’s Bridal // Maid of Honor’s Dress: Rent the Runway // Hair: Helena DeYoung’s Hair Outreach // Makeup: Hanna Wagner Design // Catering: Hog Wild BBQ // Video: Couture Creative Media // Bar: Distinctive Catering // Cake: The Cakabakery // Donuts: Robinette’s Apple Haus & Winery

 

 

Colorado couple, Sasha and Alex, gathered all the closest friends and family for their tropical destination wedding in beautiful Sayulita, Mexico. Villa Valentin, a breathtaking beach estate, had all the charm and character one could desire for a modern Mexico affair and the couple played up the vibes with colorful, joyful details. Adorable, hot pink custom paper goods and invitations were by Della Torre Designs while delightful florals were created by Flor Mimo. Sasha’s Leanne Marshall gown was the epitome of chic, simple beach vibes while fun accents like rainbow pom-pom garland, super adorable gift bags added touches of lightheartedness. Check out all the details in these lovely images by Leila Brewster Cross.

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What made the wedding special and unique?

It was such an incredible experience to have all our closest friends and family in a tropical destination! That was our vision and it really came to life once everyone arrived and we not only had the wedding day but a few days leading up to the wedding to enjoy Sayulita.

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

I have been obsessed with Leanne Marshall for years and I knew I wanted some lightweight for the heat in Mexico so silk seemed like a great option. It was actually the first gown I tried on and ended up going back to it after trying on many other gowns. I loved the gold detail that made it feel a little less traditional and gave it some flare.

What were some touches added to make the wedding personal?

We did a lot ourselves once we arrived to Mexico; I think the gift bags were super fun and we put those together ourselves with the help of some Etsy finds and local goodies. The ceremony was officiated by the bride’s father which made that so special.

What was the most memorable part of the day?

We both agree that the ceremony was our favorite part of the day, such a surreal emotional moment. The first look was also really fun!

Tell us how you met and became engaged.

We got engaged at the top of the gondola in Telluride, under a shooting star Alex dropped to one knee, it was a total surprise. We had an amazing few days celebrating in Telluride after that.

SASHA + ALEX MARRIED! VILLA VALENTIN SAYULITA, MEXICO WEDDING TEASER from Betsi Ewing Studio on Vimeo.

Photography: Leila Brewster Cross // Florals: Flor Mimo // Planning: Carly, Milk Glass Productions // Invites + paper goods: Della Torre Designs // Venue: Villa Valentin // Gown: Leanne Marshall // Hair: Riley Fidel // Makeup: Hannah Thorndike // Catering: Sofia Sanchez // Rentals Group: Trendy Eventful Furniture // Video: Daneil Orren Betsy Ewing Studio // DJ Nick Challed  // Music: Tetewari Music / Esau Galvan Saltos / Alberto Perez Ramirez / Daniel Marquez Ortega / Sonny Davis

 

Bride Ryan described her wedding day to Dylan as “special, unique, exciting, fun, sweaty and filled with endless love, margaritas and churros.” Fun, right?! The couple’s San Jose del Cabo wedding day was also incredibly gorgeous. Planned by Amy Abbott Events, the event was held at the art-centric Hotel El Ganzo with a ceremony on the lawn and an open air reception with stellar views. Florals by Pina Hernandez are spectacular and include an over-the-top chuppa and bold, coral and pink hued table arrangements. Ryan and Dylan enlisted the skills of Ana and Jerome Photography to capture their love, joy and the super beautiful party that celebrated it all.

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Who proposed? When and how? February 4th started out like any normal day. Ryan and Dylan woke up, had their coffee and headed to the gym. They then had plans to meet friends at Firehouse, their favorite local breakfast spot. Their standard walking route takes them through the beautiful Venice Canals, where they always dream of living one day. Due to their obsession with the neighborhood, Ryan follows a blogger who lives there and on this morning Dylan was convinced he knew the location of her home. As Ryan started following him in a different direction they both noticed a bridge that they had never seen before. There was a big sign hanging that read: “No Regrets. No Bad Days”. As they both repeated the words Dylan continued talking…. When Rya noticed that he had stopped walking she turned around and he was on one knee. To say she was in shock is understatement. She was so overwhelmed with emotion that she couldn’t even see the ring, nor respond to his question. He stood up and hugged her and then the waterworks began. Once Ryan got her head on straight and realized she was being proposed to she politely ask that he do it again. Dylan being the most patient and kind man, he graciously did, and this time she said YES!

How did you choose your wedding venue? I knew I wanted it in San Jose since we frequent there for vacations and feel at peace there. Then it was a question of where. My mom is a travel agent and remembered visiting El Ganzo. She told Dylan and I about the venue and we just fell in love. We though it was so unique and beautiful.

Who designed your rings? Mine – We designed together with a jeweler in downtown Los Angeles. His – Cartier Love Ring.

What were some things that made the wedding special and unique?

1. Every bridesmaid chose their own gown. Robes were purchased on Etsy.

2. My necklace was recently given to me by mom. The center is a diamond from my grandma’s old necklace and my mom had a Pacific Palisades jewelry designer recreate a more modern look by drilling a rose gold chain through the center. It’s very special to me since it comes from my mom and grandma.

3. My parents were huge contributors to the event. My dad took care of all food and alcohol arrangements, since cooking is his passion. My mom went on every appointment and checked in with me everyday regarding wedding details. They also traveled with Dylan and I to San Jose to meet with every vendor.

What was your biggest splurge of the day? Biggest splurge were probably the outfits. I purchased a dress that I was not intending to spend that much money on, pricey shoes and earrings, and then I bought a jumpsuit for an outfit change. All worth it!

Please describe 3 personal touches:

1. Our guestbook. I assigned Dylan the task of creating our guest book. He used old photos throughout our relationship and it came out so beautifully.

2. The tallit that was wrapped around Dylan and I during the ceremony was my grandfather’s. He had just passed away a few months ago so this was a very special moment for us and our family.

3. The kiddush cups we drank from during the ceremony were from my parents’ wedding.

Please describe 3 favorite moments:

1. I love my husband so much and our first look was beautiful, but I have to say, the first look with my dad was extremely emotional. He was the first man in my life and has always been the most important man. Growing up I really admired him. This was a big moment for us and there was so much love in the room. It was really special.

2. My first favorite moment was getting on the boat with my parents to go to the ceremony site. I remember being so present and excited. I just kept thinking to myself…”how many girls get to arrive to their ceremony site by boat!?”

3. My second favorite moment was when we were all standing at the altar and the public beach across the way was blasting music. I kept telling myself to not be upset because years from now I will look back and laugh. At that moment, the Rabbi said “well, having music like this across the way is definitely a wedding first for me” and it completely broke the ice and made the crowd laugh.

What did you learn from the experience?

I learned that planning a wedding is the most stressful thing ever and having an amazing wedding planning team is key! You also need a great support team around you for the days that are extra stressful. Family and friends that can also help you make important decisions is extremely helpful. I also learned that there are just some things you have no control over, no matter how much you plan and plan…sometimes you just have to suck it up and move on. That’s life!

If you could sum up your wedding day in one sentence, how would you describe it? My wedding day was special, unique, exciting, fun, sweaty and filled with endless love, margaritas and churros.

Photography: Ana and Jerome Photography // Coordination: Ximena Perez for Amy Abbott Events // Flowers: Pina Hernandez // Signage and Printed Items: Serendipity // Venue: Hotel El Ganzo // Hair and Makeup: Blanc Bridal Salon // Dress: Leanne Marshall // Rentals: Warehouse

 

Sarah and Andrew’s spring-inspired color palette of dusty blue, peach, blush, and ivory, with accents of rose gold sets the light-and-lovely tone for the couple’s “elegant and playful” day. The venue, Foundation For The Carolinas, offered gorgeous views of Uptown Charlotte and was dressed up with striking arrangements by New Creations Flower Company including tall cascading centerpieces and low arrangements in rose gold vases. Preppy paper goods are by Elisabeth Rose Social Stationery and an artistic three-tiered floral-accented cake was by Wow Factor Cakes.  The day was captured by Josh Deaton Photography and you can check out all the details in the lovely images below.

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From the planner: When asked to reflect on her wedding day, Sarah says, “I actually debated on having a smaller wedding or having a bigger wedding because it is honestly a lot of money to spend on one day. However, after having the wedding I would never have a smaller wedding. There is truly something to be said about having all of your family and best friends in one room to celebrate you. The day did go by fast, but the memories we made we will have forever. Both of us look back and remember how much fun we had, and every time we run into someone that was there they always bring up how amazing our wedding was and it makes us so happy!”

Sarah chose a spring-inspired color palette of dusty blue, peach, blush, and ivory, with accents of rose gold. The colors reflect the bride and grooms personalities and style. Sarah says, “I also love gold/rose gold and both of our favorite color is blue so we wanted to make sure that was in our wedding as well.” She and Andrew chose the Foundation For The Carolinas as their venue because of the gorgeous views of Uptown Charlotte. Sarah says, “I wanted people to walk into the room and see both of our personalities in the design. We don’t take ourselves too seriously, so we wanted our wedding look to be elegant, yet kind of playful. We had tall cascading centerpieces on the table surrounded by colored taper candles on top of pale blue tablecloths, along with blush chargers and  gold flatware. I wanted my flowers to be abstract so they felt loose and not restricted.”

Family is very important to Sarah and Andrew. And while there were many thoughtful details throughout their wedding, one of Sarah’s favorite personal details involved her wedding day jewelry. “My mother has a Sapphire and Diamond ring that belonged to my grandmother,” she says. “I wore this as my something blue and something old. My best friend, and Maid of Honor, Kristi, also gave me a rose gold bracelet,” Sarah adds. “And she has the same one in gold that was my something new. We’ve been friends for over 10 years and every time I wear that bracelet I think of our special friendship and my wedding day.”

When asked, Sarah said that her favorite moment of the day was the first look. “We debated even doing a first look because we weren’t sure if it would take some of the magic away from seeing each other when I walked down the aisle,” she said. “But I am so, so glad we did this! Having the first look really calmed my nerves and grounded me for the day.” Sarah goes on to say that not rushing through portraits of the couple or with family, especially with her sister, was important. Sarah recalls another memory that stands out, saying “My husband and I walked in to the reception area before while cocktail hour was still going on and I will forever remember this moment.” She continues, “I had been planning this day for over a year and to see it all come to life was just spectacular. It was simply breathtaking.”

Sarah and Andrew placed a lot of emphasis on good entertainment, and booking The Dickens was one of the first vendors they booked. Sarah said, “I also found out later that my Dad and the lead singer of our band, Percy, met each other in the hallway before the ceremony. They became fast friends and the band decided to play the entire hour and a half through without taking a single break because the energy on the dance floor was so good. This seriously made my day! Everyone has talked non-stop about our band and having a packed dance floor was the #1 thing I wanted on our wedding day.”

Wedding Planner + Designer: The Graceful Host // Photography: Josh Deaton Photography // Floral Design: New Creations Flower Company // Paper Goods: Elisabeth Rose Social Stationery // Ceremony + Reception Venue: Foundation For The Carolinas // Hair & Make-up: Be Pretty (Lindsey Regan Thorne) // Wedding Dress Designer: Modern Trousseau // Wedding Dress Boutique: Hayden Olivia // Cake: Wow Factor Cakes // Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Yoo from Brideside // Grooms Attire: The Black Tux // Catering: Best Impressions Catering // Rentals: Party Reflections
// Linens: La Tavola // Linens: ModMix Studio // Table Top Rentals: Emerson James // Furniture Rentals: Old South Vintage Rentals // Uplighting: Wink Lighting // Reception Entertainment: The Dickens

wedding planner + designer @thegracefulhost // photography ig@joshdeaton // floral design @newcreationsflowersclt // paper goods @elisabethrose // ceremony + reception venue @fftcarolinas // hair & makeup @beprettycharlotte // wedding dress designer @moderntrousseau // wedding dress boutique @haydenoliviabridal // cake @thewowfactorcakes // bridesmaid dresses @jennyyoonyc / @brideside // grooms attire @theblacktux // catering @bestimpressionscatering // rentals @partyreflections // linens @latavolalinen @modmixstudio // table top rentals @emersonjamesrental // furniture rentals @oldsouthvintagerentals // reception entertainment @samhillentertainment