Orange and Gray Wedding Inspiration

Like black, gray is one of those colors that can pretty much go with anything and it's especially pretty for a wedding. The good thing about the color gray is that it can be paired with an equally muted color, like black, or be paired with a bright and bold color like yellow, fuchsia, and even orange. The orange and gray wedding inspiration board that I have for you today would work well for any of the four seasons. The palette is great for the winter because the color gray has a cool, icy tone to it. It'll work well in the spring because the shades of orange is just enough brightness without being too much. For the summer, the orange is a great pop of color and gray is light and airy. Lastly, orange and gray wedding color palette will be great in the fall season because the gray is a very nice offset to the typical orange color that's used in the fall. Regardless of the season, this orange and gray wedding inspiration board should inspire you to let your creative juices flow. Enjoy!

Suitcase Image: WeddingChicks.com Candy Image: ThePerfectPalette.com Stiletto Image: Etsy.com Bridesmaid Image: UnitedWithLove.com Ring Box Image: Etsy.com Groom Image: RusticWeddingChic.com Invitation Image:StyleMePretty.com Necklace Image: Etsy.com Perfume Image: Elle.es Drink Image: WeddingChicks.com Etsy.com Lounge Image: WeddBook.com

Beautiful Bridesmaid Dresses

We all know that the bride is always the star on her wedding day and front and center. However, the bridesmaids can look just as beautiful in fabulous dresses; yet overshadowing the bride.  Being a lover of fashion, I've often considered the aisle as the fashion runway of the wedding. There are some beautiful bridesmaid dresses that are custom made, non-traditional, and so gorgeous that you'd look for a reason to wear them again. Below are some of my favorites.  Enjoy!

Image Courtesy of: OnceWed.com

Image Courtesy of Phao Photography

Image Courtesy of: TheHunt.com

Image Courtesy of: ShoppingWeddingDresses.com

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Image Courtesy of: Style Me Pretty

Image Courtesy of: WeddingPartyApp.com

The Importance Of Wedding Insurance

In the light of the venue, ReBar, in New York closing, I wanted to again stress the importance of wedding insurance.  It's been all over the news that Mr. Stevens put a padlock on the door of the all-inclusive wedding venue, stating that it was closed and bankrupt, which left many brides and staff in total shock.  According to Good Morning America, Mr. Stevens has taken deposits from over 160 couples, totaling approximately 800 thousand dollars.  The hardest part to digest is that he hasn't filed bankruptcy! He turned himself in for criminal tax fraud and grand larceny.  The general attorney is investigating the wedding charges, however it's not known if the couples will ever get there money back. Many brides and grooms get engaged, set a wedding date and go about planning their wedding in total bliss. That’s how it should be. But, in life bad things happen. We have health insurance, car insurance, home insurance, and many others insurances to protect us in a time of need. Many of us never stop to think about protecting the investment of our wedding day that’s typically a year down the road. Wedding insurance is not a topic that is often discussed.

There are two types of wedding insurance, Wedding Event Insurance and Wedding Liability Insurance. According toWedSafe.com, Event insurance protects all you have invested in your wedding, now throughout the planning period. Liability insurance protects you on your wedding day if you’re held liable for any alcohol related accidents or damage to the property. The coverage is primarily for you and the venue. As with any insurance policy, there is a deductible for each.

Image Courtesy of: Style Me Pretty

Below is a bit more detail as to what’s covered under each policy:

Wedding Event Insurance:

• Covers against extreme situations that may cause postponement of your wedding such as severe weather, accident, or sudden illness.
• Financial loss if the event goes on and you have a glitch along the way such as a no show vendor, damaged wedding gown, or lost photographs.
• If you’re concerned about recouping your deposits if a vendor goes bankrupt or doesn’t deliver as promised.
• If the bride or groom is in the military and approved leave could be cancelled.

Image Courtesy of: EMelton.com

Wedding Liability Insurance:

• Protects you on your wedding day if you’re held responsible for alcohol related accidents, property damage, or bodily injury during your wedding.
• Protects you if you’re concerned about lawsuits for property damage or bodily injury.
• Protects you if you’re concerned about legal liability for alcohol related accidents.

Image Courtesy of IDoCelebrant.wordpress.com

As you can see, wedding insurance is something that you should really consider, especially since the investment is minimal compared to the actual cost of the damage if something goes wrong. From WedSafe.com, a policy can be purchased up to 24 hours before your wedding and can be purchased online. For $150 you can receive a policy for $500,000 liability insurance coverage or $175 for a $1million policy. The policy can be downloaded and printed with the original being mailed to you or sent to your venue.

Lavender and Cream Wedding Inspiration

With spring being here, pastel colors are popular choices for weddings. Pastel colors are soft and pretty and really go well with the spring season, as darker colors are typically saved for the fall and sometimes winter. I've put together a lavender and cream inspiration board for a wedding that has a neutral palette with a little bit of color. Aside from that, a lot of people simply love lavender as it's known to have a calming effect. If you're looking for a soft, pretty, and calming lavender and cream wedding inspiration that will inspire you. Enjoy!

Dress Image Courtesy of: Burnett's Board Napkin Image Courtesy of: MyPinning.Tumblr.com Dessert Image Courtesy of: TheCakeBlog.com Plate Image Courtesy of: WeddBook.com Bouquet Image Courtesy of: MemorableWedding.blogspot.com Lavender Lemonade Image Courtesy of: Suvelle Cousine Place Card Image Courtesy of: ANaturalPerspective.com Cake Image Courtesy of: Yummy Cupcakes and Cakes.

Nardos Imam Bridal Gowns

I'm a lover of fashion and totally smitten with bridal gowns! I may be totally oblivious to not have known about Nardos Imam before now but I just found out about her and her amazing custom gowns.  I find that Nardos Imam bridal gowns are a bit etherial with an elegant flair, whether a modern or a vintage style. When brides go shopping for their wedding dresses, they often hear of the most common names; Vera Wang, Marchesa, Reem Acra, Carolina Herrera, Watters, and Ines di Santo. Rarely do we hear about Nardos Imam, a North African beauty.  Today I have for you a few of her wedding gown for you to feast your eyes on.  They may very well help you on your quest for your wedding gown. Happy planning!

I hope you've enjoyed this preview of Nardos Imam bridal gowns.

All images are courtesy of NardosImam.com

Unique Wedding Invitations

The invitation sets the tone. That's how all wedding starts; with the wedding invite. Today, many couples are thinking outside of the box and looking to be creative. Wanting to stand out from the typical square invitation is a trend that's quickly growing with more unique wedding invitations. With your style, personality, and joint interests, unique wedding invitations can let your guests know a little more about you and what they can expect on your wedding day; something fun and casual instead of something formal. The options are endless and I've found some that may inspire you to get creative with your wedding invitations.

Image Courtesy of: Etsy.com

Image Courtesy of Style Me Pretty

Image Courtesy of: Loren Malin Photography

Image Courtesy of: Etsy.com

Image Courtesy of: Cutture.com

Image Courtesy of: Weddingfully.com

Image Courtesy of: Etsy.com

Image Courtesy of: OneLittleM.com

Image Courtesy of: Wedding Chicks

Image Courtesy of: Living MSN

Image Courtesy of: Triniteye.com

Image Courtesy of: WeddingInvitationsParty.com

Image Courtesy of: Loulwa Photography

Image Courtesy of: BridesMagazine.co.uk

Peach and Black Wedding Inspiration

There are some color combinations that you really don't expect to see together, especially for a wedding.  Peach and black are two of those colors. Peach is a nice refreshing color and black has been known to symbolize elegance.  I'm feeling a little peachy today and wanted give you some inspiration, using these two colors, just in case you've not decided on what to do for you wedding or you're wanting to accent the colors you've already chosen. Enjoy!

Car Image: ImageNesyGraficos.com Invitation Image: ShineWeddingInvitations.com Cake Image: SweetAPolita.com Perfume Image: InfiniteLoveForFashion.Tumblr.com Table Image: StyledUnveiled.com Bouquet Image: StyleMePretty.com Boutonniere Image: Brides.com Tank Top Image: Etsy.com

Beautiful Bouquets

Next to the bride's wedding gown, her wedding bouquet is one of my favorite things. I happen to love flowers, just like most women, and I love how florists, such as The Brides Cafe, are able to put them together so beautifully. Whether they use roses, peonies, calla lilies, or anemonies, the beautiful bouquets that brides carry when they walk down the aisle can be quite stunning. Today, I wanted to share with you with some of my favorite bridal bouquets, in hopes that you'll see something that you'll be inspired by for your wedding day. Enjoy!

 Image Courtesy of Style Me Pretty

 Image Courtesy of The Every Last Detail

 Image Courtesy of Love My Dress

 Image Courtesy of Belle The Magazine

 Image Courtesy of Belle The Magazine

 Image Courtesy of Style Me Pretty

 Image Courtesy of Love Web Bliss

 Image Courtesy of Etsy.com

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 Image Courtesy of Mary Dann

 Image Courtesy Style Me Pretty

 Image Courtesy of Belle The Magazine

 Image Courtesy of Love Flora Fauna

 Image Courtesy of Rachel a Clingen

 Image Courtesy of Style Me Pretty via Sharon Nicole Photography

 Image Courtesy of Panted Tulip via Grace Ormonde

Image Courtesy of Style Me Pretty

Wedding Day Cupcakes

I am a huge fan of Cupcake Wars.  It's wear I get to see just how creative people can be with small cakes.  Weddings have become more and more non-traditional; making couples think more outside of the box. Although wedding day cupcakes aren't totally unique, there are some wedding cupcakes and their displays that can make you forget you didn't have a wedding cake. If you're toying between wedding day cupcakes and a wedding cake, I have rounded up a few that may inspire you to delve into the small treats. Enjoy!

Image Courtesy of TheCupcakeDailyBlog.com

 Image Courtesy of Cotton & Crumbs

 Image Courtesy of BitsyBride.com

 Image Courtesy of Beautiful-Wedding-Cupcakes

 Image Courtesy of ReverieMag.com

 Image Courtesy of LilyRoseCakes.com

Image Courtesy of The Pastry Studio

 Images Courtesy of Shore Shotz Photography

 Image Courtesy of Heavenly Cupcakes

 Image Courtesy of OneWed.com

Image Courtesy of Sandals.com

Hand Painted Wedding Cakes

Wedding cakes have been a huge part of the wedding; just as much as the bride's wedding dress have been, for as long as I can remember.  With that being said, having flowers on the wedding cake has always been a major staple for a wedding cake; fresh or sugar flowers, the options are endless. When those flowers are hand painted, the wedding cake is that much more unique. In recent years, hand painted wedding cakes are becoming more and more popular.  It shows the uniqueness of the bride and groom as well as some insight to their personality as a couple.  When a wedding cake is hand painted, it's truly one of a kind. I recently used a hand painted wedding cake in a styled shoot, featured here and here, and I have fallen in love with them all over again. Whether you're having flowers, the city your groom proposed, places you love to travel, or love notes, I've gathered some of my favorite hand painted cakes to give you some inspiration. Enjoy!

Image Courtesy of ITakeYou.co.ukImage Courtesy of BeautifulCakePictures.com Image Courtesy of WeddingBells.caImage Courtesy of ChatterCakes.co.ukImage Courtesy of NigerianWedding.orgImage Courtesy of BurnettsBoards.comImage Courtesy of CalligraphyByJennifer.netImage Courtesy of Aisle2Forever.com Image Courtesy of SweetFaceCakes.comImage Courtesy of SweetDisposition.comImage Courtesy of NewportWeddingGlam.comImage Courtesy of CakeCentral.comImage Courtesy of CakeChooser.comImage Courtesy of CakeCentral.com

Image Courtesy of Craftsy.com

Merry Christmas!

Christmas has always been my favorite time of year. The city is covered in bright lights, you're able to spend time with family and friends, and it's the season of giving.  It's just a happy time. When asked by my friend and amazing photographer, Samantha Clarke, to do a photo shoot during the holiday season, I thought that it would be the perfect opportunity for the "Mister" (as Samantha calls him) and myself to have some extra fun and create a special and personal Christmas card to send to our families and friends.  Besides, with Samantha living in Canada, we don't get to see each other too often.  The day was perfect and cool and we had a blast together, as always. Knowing that Samantha came all the way from Canada, in the midst of visiting her own family in South Carolina, made it that much more special and enjoyable.

From us to you, we're wishing you a very Merry Christmas; one that's full of love, happiness, joy, and the chance to spend with those you love. Happy Holidays!

Image Courtesy of Samantha Clarke Photograpy

Entertaining Kids at Your Wedding

Weddings are a fun, romantic, and full of love. It's a time for families to become one and celebrate the joining of two lives. The one question that always come up is whether or not children should be a part of the wedding or even invited.  There's never a right answer to this question.  It depends on your budget, the amount of children in your family, and whether or not you'd like to have them at your wedding. If you're deciding to have children at your wedding, the important thing to remember is to include the children. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in our own festivities; the dancing and other parts of the wedding, that we forget about the children.  Today, on the blog, I've found some creative ways to incorporate kids at your wedding.

 Image Courtesy of OffBeatBride.com

Image Courtesy of ProjectWedding.com

 Image Courtesy of Boards.WeddingBee.com

 Image Courtesy of GartnerStudios.com

 Image Courtesy of YoYoMe.Co.Uk

 Image Courtesy of Copper Kiwi Designs on Etsy.com

 Image Courtesy of LoveMyDress.net

Image Courtesy of Shindigz.com

Image Courtesy of ValleyAndCoBlog.com

Ivory Flower Wedding Shoes

Choosing your shoes for your wedding day look is sometimes just as exciting as selecting the wedding gown. As a bride, you want to make sure the shoe has the perfect look and the detail is spot on for your wedding dress!  When I saw this Brian Atwood ivory flower shoe, I was smitten.  I love the flower details with the touches of gold stitching.  I think it's a perfect shoe to compliment a wedding dress!

Image via Glamour.com

Creative Wedding Napkin Details

I tell the story through the details. That's how I'm able to incorporate the style and personalities of my brides and grooms into each wedding that I do.  When it comes down to setting the table, I'm all about being creative and giving the guests an experience.  I like to fold or accent the napkin in a a way that represents the couple, the style of event, and compliment the design.  Here are a few creative napkin folds to inspire you for your wedding day. Happy planning!  Image via BridesOfNorthTexas.com via Tracey Autem Photography

Image via LauraAshbrook.com

 Image via WeddingChicks.com

Image via EnrapturedEvents.com Photography by The Studio B Photography

Image via WonderfulWeddingPhotos.Blogspot.com

Image via AnnePatrick.net

 Image via InvitationsbyAJalon.com

Image by JGrace.com

Groom's Neckties & Ring Pins

Since I was a little girl, I've had a thing about neckties. My grandfather used to take me to Sears to help him pick out the ties that would go with the suits he'd wear to church on Sunday.  I fell in love with the 100% silk, the beautiful patterns, and the way they complimented the various suits he'd wear. Today, I love a well dressed man and I especially love a dapper groom and the way he chooses to showcase his style in the tie that he chooses to wear on his wedding day.  Today, I've rounded up a few of my favorite and most unique ties, from the way the knot is tied, to the ring pin, for your wedding day inspiration.

Image via PlatinumElegangeEvents.com

Image via PlatinumElegangeEvents.com

Image via AltelierZolotas.Gr

Pumpkin Centerpieces for Fall Weddings

It's now officially the fall season; one of my favorites for weddings.  It's the time where we get to see bold, dark colors and also the time where we can get creative with the wedding day centerpieces.  Because the holidays are just around the corner, pumpkins are popping up at the grocery stores and the farmer's markets. This is the perfect opportunity to incorporate pumpkins, both orange and white, into your fall weddings.  I've gathered some of my favorites for your inspiration.  Image via dishfunctionaldesigns.blogspot.com

Image via RusticWeddingChic.com

Image via ChristinaMarieEvents.Blogspot.com

Image via Etsy.com

Image via GracefulHost.com

Image via KreativelyKrafted.tumblr.com

Image via Best-Pictures-Today.blogspot.com

Fashionable Bridal Headpieces

When it comes to wedding fashion, it's not just the dresses that I love.  I absolutely adore bridal headpieces and the way they accentuate the bride's wedding gown.  Many bride's have opted out of wearing veils and have chosen to go with a headpiece that fits more into their personal style, be it Bohemian, vintage, or even 1920's Gatsby inspired. I tell my brides to celebrate you the way you'd like to celebrate and if wearing a veil isn't you, I have some great great headpiece options to inspire you to just be you on your wedding day!

Image via MiWeddingNeeds.com

Image via LoveMyDress.net

Image via LoveMyDress.net

Image via JesseCiani.com

Image via GreenWeddingShoes.com

Image via Style.it

Image via RockNRollBride.com

Image via Etsy.com

Image via JessicaClaire.net

Image via Indulgy.com

Image via JannieBaltzer.com

Image via LimaOesal.com

Football Wedding Inspiration

It's still the height of wedding season and football season has just begun.  Some grooms frown upon wedding dates during football season, especially weddings on Sunday!  When I consult with my brides, I always like to get the story of who they are as a couple as well as individually. It's my job to incorporate both of them into their wedding.  If football is his thing, then it's up to me to figure out a way to incorporate his passion into the wedding too. Whether it's a football themed wedding or the incorporation of a football, the groom's personality should be included.  Be it the engagement pictures, groom's cake, centerpieces, cocktail dessert, or a cute wedding party photo. For today's Men's Monday post, I've put together an inspiration board that will give you a few ideas on including the groom in your wedding during football season. They're small details that will include him but not overshadow the bride!

Groom's Cake: ILoveSWMag.com Football Centerpiece: ProjectWedding.com Football Mugs: TheWeddingOutlet.com Football Engagement: HoffmanWeddings.com Football Strawberries: Products.Berries.com Football Cufflinks: Cufflinks.com (For a Discount Coupon, click here:) Ringshot: RaftMedia.com Bridal Party: Jonathan Ivy Phototography

Seaglass Wedding Inspiration

Beach weddings have been popular since the beach has been in existence.  Today, the latest trend added to beach and beach themed weddings is seaglass! Blue is my personal favorite color because of its connection to the ocean and the tranquility that it represents for me. Seaglass is a gorgeous touch to add to a wedding and can be incorporated in so many different ways; varying shades of blue in the bridesmaids dresses, a bold statement piece of jewelry on your wedding day, your signature drink, the wedding cake and so much more.  I've put together a seaglass inspiration board to give you some ideas and hopefully inspire you if you're planning a beach wedding or incorporating seaglass.  Enjoy!

Bridesmaids Image: Oceanside Bride: Dress Image: WhatchaThinkAboutThat.tumblr.com Tablescape Image: Style Me Pretty Cake Image: 100LayerCakelet.com Stationery Image: MarthaStewartWeddings.com Necklace Image: SpiritOfTheSeaglassJewelry.com Martini Image: HungryCoupleNYC.Blogspot.com Escort Cards Image: BeauAndArrowEvents.Files.WordPress.com

Bridal Party Trends

Back in the day, we would have the bridal party to come dressed in jeans and a button-down shirt so that they wouldn't mess up their freshly done make up and styled hair on their wedding day. Today, brides are much more fashionable and fashion conscious.  They're interested in the big picture and want their bridesmaids to look good while getting dressed for the wedding.  There are fashionable robes that have emerged to comfortable t-shirts and sweat pants.  I'm all about the details but also think that there's a bit of unity in dressing alike for such a special occasion.

Image courtesy of StyleMePretty via Lindsay Madden Photography

Image courtesy of MariaLainen Photography