Jaime + Nathan : Rustic Engagement Session

Photo Credits : L. A. Photography

Take a gorgeous setting, add two beautiful people, throw in a talented photographer, and you have the perfect recipe for an amazing engagement shoot. Shot in Mt. Olive, Alabama, the rustic setting was perfect for Jaime, who grew up on a horse farm, and Nathan, a lifelong outdoors-man. "We wanted something very natural and organic, outside, and simple" said Jaime. 

Color Palette : Sand & Sea

Sand, surf and sky... is there a more beautiful setting for a spring or summer wedding? Today's color palette reflects the soft tranquility of the beach, played out in gentle hues of driftwood gray and muted coral, accented by crisp white and classic beige. Romantic. Intimate. Relaxed. This is one of my favorite color combinations - so much so that I used it at my own beach wedding!




Photo Credits : David Fittin, Alexandra Meseke Photography, Millie Holloman, Christina Szczupak Photography, Jen and Travis Photography

Dawn + James : Eco-Friendly Wedding

Today's real wedding features Dawn and James' eco-friendly event at the Four Rivers Environmental Center, located just outside of Chicago in the McKinley Woods Forest Preserve. As the bride told me, "By planning a 'green' wedding, we hope that our eco-friendly elements lessen the environmental footprint of our special day and truly make a difference." 


Their story is a classic opposites attract tale. Dawn is from the city, James is from the country. She's and interior designer, he's a farmer & lumberjack. It was important to them for their wedding to reflect both of their personalities and to maintain an elegant feel while incorporating natural elements. The result was an intimate, sophisticated event that perfectly represented the blending of two unique individuals. 

Photo credits : Elizabeth Greve Photography

Color Palette : Versailles in Spring

Think Versailles. Think Marie Antoinette. Think spring. That's the inspiration for the colors in this palette. Refined aqua plays against delicate coral - highlighted by the opulence of subtle gilding. The colors contrasting, yet in perfect harmony. This is a color palette that would have any bride feeling like a queen on her wedding day.



Photo Credits: Corbin Gurkin Photography, Chloe Murdoch Photography, Allyson Magda Photography, Docuvitae Photography, Ryan Jenson Photography

Jessica + Zach : Engagement Session

Jessica and Zach were brought together by tragedy, but prove that out of the most difficult situations, beautiful things can emerge. They started dating in high school, and have essentially grown up together. "We've been together through everything," Jessica told me. "The main inspiration for our engagement shoot was to allow the love we have for each other to show through in our pictures and to have images that really capture our relationship in a candid manner."

Photo Credits: Kristina Gaines

Maile + Gerry : Minerals Resort Wedding

Today's real wedding feature showcases Maile and Gerry's Minerals Resort Wedding. Located in Vernon, New Jersey, part of the larger Crystal Springs Resort, the romantic venue perfectly reflected their personal style. As Maile told me, "It was a really easy choice for us. The location and ambiance were perfect for our rustic taste".

Photo Credits: Asthete Studios

R.E. Style Feature : Girly Girl Bead Boutique

For today's R.E. Style feature, I would like to introduce Michelle Martson, owner of  Girly Girl Bead Boutique. Michelle is working mom with two small girls and a passion for jewelry. She works primarily in Swarovski crystal elements, freshwater pearls, and sterling silver. Her designs are simple and classic, perfect for brides looking for understated, clean elegance. She welcomes custom work and tells me, "I love working with a bride to create exactly the jewelry she wants to compliment her bridal style".

 

Color Palette : Raspberries in the Sun

Juicy red raspberry and warm spring sunlight are the hues captured in this inspiration board. Mixing the bold colors with vintage-chic details is a stunning way to use some of springs most exciting tones. As captivating as it is charming, this palette would be perfect for an outdoor event.

Photo credits: We Heart Photography, David Jenkins Photography, Birds of a Feather Photography, Lisa Hessel Photography, Jose Villa Photography, Mi Belle Photography

Color Palette : Bride's Blush

For me, few colors are as delicate and refined as classic blush. It evokes a vintage quality and romantic feel that are so perfect as the backdrop for many wedding venues and themes. This inspiration board combines blush with classic ivory and gray for a timeless feel. From the rhinestone shoe clips to the conservatory reception venue and classic wedding cake design, the overall feeling is elegant and understated. 

Photo Credits: Brookelyn Photograpy, Snap! Photography, Melissa Schollaert Photography, Kristin Banta Events, The Nichols, Amelia Johnson Photography