Love List

Lisa — Fri, 18 May 2012 12:00:25 +0000

I didn’t originally intend for this to be a Love List full of portraits, but I kind of love that it turned out that way! After all, as wonderful as the details are, the marriage of the bride and groom is what it’s really all about. Agree? Join The Sweet Tea Society on Southern Weddings–an absolutely adorable new “club” that reminds us to keep all these pretty wedding blog things in perspective.

{Doesn’t Charleston seem like a dreamy place? I’ve never been, but I’m dying to go…and this gorgeous Magnolia Plantation wedding has me even more convinced that I would love it there. I also have to give a mention to the bride’s veil because it is perfect. By Jose Villa via Once Wed}

{I’m not sure what I love most here–the bride’s blue cardigan, her lovely headband, the groom’s dapper vest, or the all-around-adorableness of this kiss shot. By Blue Bottle Photography via Style Me Pretty}

{There’s something so chic and whimsical about a bride in a yellow checkered cab! And once again, check out this completely fabulous veil–cathedral length is definitely my weakness. By Heather Waraksa Photography via Style Me Pretty}

{To finish off the week, the perfect wedding day kiss! By Chudleigh Weddings via Snippet and Ink}

Have a beautiful weekend!

Love,

Lisa

Dress Envy

Lisa — Thu, 17 May 2012 12:00:19 +0000

A few weeks ago, I had a major “you know you’re a wedding blogger when” moment. It happened when I was clicking through Vera Wang’s Spring 2012 collection and stumbled across this beauty. I couldn’t even help it–the words” Ohmygosh, Vera did mint!!” came out of my mouth. Even though I immediately burst out laughing at myself, I’m willing to bet that some of you are having a similarly thrilled reaction? :)

Ms. Wang describes this dress as a “strapless mermaid gown with trapunto-stiched double bustier, back bow, and multi-tiered back bustle with cascading two-toned floral embroidery.” Sounds like poetry to me! What’s more is that the gown is called Harper, which is one of my favorite girl’s names. If I have a daughter someday, I very well might name her after this gown! ;)

Love,

Lisa

Pictures via Vera Wang

Budget Bridesmaid Gifts

Lisa — Tue, 15 May 2012 12:00:17 +0000

One thing I will never forget about my best friend’s wedding is what it was like getting ready at her parents’ house on the morning of the big day. Almost all of the bridesmaids spent the night, and then we enjoyed the morning doing each others’ hair, putting on makeup together, and swooning over how gorgeous the bride looked. Her bridal party consisted of her sister, me and my sister (we’ve known the bride since 1993!), her sister-in-law-to-be, one of her closest friends from high school, and two of her closest friends from college. Even though some of us were mere acquaintances before the wedding, we all bonded over the fact that this bride meant so much to us, and I can only hope that being surrounded by girlfriends from all different parts of her life made the morning of the wedding even more special for her!

I’ve written lots about bridesmaid fashion and styling ideas on Something Pretty, but today, I rounded up some great bridesmaid gifts–the perfect tokens of appreciation for a bride to give to her favorite girls. The best part? Each pick is under $50!

1. BaubleBar Crystal Cushion Cut Studs

2. Philosophy Amazing Grace Fragrance

3. Essie Resort Collection Mini 4-Pack

4. Kate Spade by Crane Stationery, Letterpress Celebrations Assortment

5. Kate Spade Idiom Bangle in Yellow/Cream

I’m a big believer in showing appreciation for both the big and small things people do, whether that’s through a handwritten note or a plate of homemade cookies. Bridesmaids often put forth lots of time and money to make sure the bride has a wonderful and smooth wedding day, so I definitely think that giving a small gift is still a very appropriate gesture. There are lots of options that are thoughtful and still budget-friendly for a bride who just spent a pretty penny on her wedding. Anyone interested in an under $25 post as well? Let me know!

Love,

Lisa

Seaside Chic Seabrook Wedding

Lisa — Mon, 14 May 2012 12:00:14 +0000

Anyone who has swooned over The Notebook probably remembers the site of Noah and Allie’s love story–Seabrook, South Carolina. Well, Seabrook is not only the venue of The Notebook, it’s the venue of some real life love stories too, like the wedding of Chicago residents, Meghan and Adam. Both the beach and Spanish moss provided a romantic backdrop for their ceremony and reception, and their elegant decor, including the most lovely, navy-centered anemones, created the perfect seaside chic wedding.

{Vendors: Photographer: Valeria Duque Photography| Venue and catering: Seabrook Island Club| Bridal gown: Amsale| Bridesmaid dresses: Thread via Bella Bridesmaid| Groom and groomsmen suits: JoS A. Bank| Florals: Out of Hand| Place cards, programs, welcome bags: Sweet Sanity}

Thank you so much to Valeria for letting me share this lovely, romantic wedding!

Love,

Lisa

Love List

Lisa — Fri, 11 May 2012 15:13:56 +0000

Where in the world did the week go? This first week of summer has been full of long walks with my sister, catching up on some favorite TV shows, and enjoying my mom’s cooking. It’s been so relaxing and rejuvenating, and with the pool opening this weekend, I think it’ll only get better! One highlight of the week was taking my first Alt Summit class online, and if any bloggers haven’t checked them out yet, I highly recommend that you do! Not only do you get the opportunity to learn about a specialized subject from a successful blogger, you also get to connect with other bloggers in the class. It was a great experience! Now without further ado, some of my favorite pretty things from this week.

{This storybook-inspired shoot was an absolute dream! The details were all flawless. It took me forever to pick just one to feature, but this sweet storyboard was one of my favorites. By Tinywater Photography via Style Me Pretty}

{Reem Acra and Kate Spade make for one stylish and beautiful bride! Her gown is one of my favorites, and it fit in perfectly at her modern wedding. By Avery House via 100 Layer Cake}

{How’s this for a venue? I was absolutely swooning over this elegant Tuscany wedding, and Jose Villa’s lens makes it look like a dream. By Jose Villa via Once Wed}

{I’ve always loved movie-inspired shoots, and The Princess Bride is a perfect source of inspiration. Haven’t you ever wondered what Buttercup and Wesley’s wedding might look like? So gorgeous! By Ashley Bee Photography via Green Wedding Shoes}

{My heritage is mostly Polish, so I was thrilled to find this Polish wedding! The lovely bride and groom used a modern minimalist theme, peppered with Polish traditions and sweet details. By Iconoclash Photography via Snippet and Ink}

What’s inspiring you this week?

Love,

Lisa

Dress Envy

Lisa — Thu, 10 May 2012 12:00:05 +0000

Have you ever heard of Sue Wong? I hadn’t until last summer, when my mom and sisters and I took a trip to Nordstrom in downtown Houston. I was flipping through some cocktail dresses when I came across a Sue Wong dress that I fell head over heels in love with. Even though it was almost $500, I had to try it on immediately, and I still don’t think I will ever love a dress so much until I buy a wedding dress. It was a spaghetti strap cocktail-length dress made of beige silk chiffon with a sweetheart neckline. The bodice was completely beaded, the skirt was pleated, and the hem was lined with big chiffon rosettes. Aka, it was completely gorgeous, and even a year later, I still dream about it! I can only imagine that this bride who rocked a Sue Wong bridal gown felt similar, though of course, she was lucky enough to buy and keep her dress. ;)

This gorgeous couple was photographed by Silvana Difranco and featured on Style Me Pretty. Those tiers are just too lovely for words!

Have you ever fallen in love with a dress? I want to hear all about it!

Love,

Lisa

Bridal Style: Black Tie Beautiful

Lisa — Tue, 08 May 2012 12:00:18 +0000

It’s time for my second installment of the Bridal Style column! Last time, I shared ideas for the pink-loving, floral perfume-wearing Girly Girl bride, and for today, I chose something a bit more classic and elegant.

The Black Tie Beautiful Bride Essentials
{Bride: 4Eyes Photography via Style Me Pretty| 1. Alexander McQueen Black Lace Print Clutch| 2. Butter London “Diamond Geezer” nail polish| 3. BaubleBar Edwardian Cascade earrings| 4. Miu Miu Jeweled Peep-toe Satin Pumps}

The Black Tie Beautiful Bride looks for any excuse to don an evening gown. She saves up so she can treat herself to diamonds and designer shoes. She can never turn down a Laduree macaron. She finds inspiration in ballet and the opera. She couldn’t imagine getting married in flats.

How would you describe the Black Tie Beautiful bride? Any necessities I missed?

Love,

Lisa

Elegant Rustic Vineyard Wedding

Lisa — Mon, 07 May 2012 12:00:06 +0000

In my opinion, a sentimental location, a rock star team of vendors, and a dessert buffet are three fail-proof ways to have a completely amazing wedding. Siobhan and Matt’s California wedding, photographed by the talented Jen Rodriguez, has all three of these elements, plus lots more things that made their wedding oh so lovely and special. I especially love their pink and navy color scheme–not a typical choice for an outdoor vineyard wedding, but combined with just the right amount of rustic details, they made it work perfectly. Take a look!

{Vendors: Photography: Jen Rodriguez Photography| Venue: Foley Estates Vineyard & Winery| Bridal gown: Melissa Sweet| Bride’s shoes: Badgley Mischka| Wedding coordinator: Joy de Vivre Event Design Boutique| Hair and makeup: LunaBella| Catering: Pure Joy Catering| Linens: La Tavola Fine Linens| Florals: Florette Floral Design| Videography: Rain Studios| DJ: AMS Entertainment| Cupcakes: Enjoy Cupcakes| Pies: Simply Pies| Cookies: Cheryl & Co}

Isn’t it beautiful? The escort card display labeled “Musical Chairs” is so cute, and do not even get me started on the turquoise Enjoy Cupcakes trailer! Thank you so much to Jen for letting me share this gorgeous wedding!

Love,

Lisa

Love List

Lisa — Fri, 04 May 2012 12:30:02 +0000

I have a great feeling about this upcoming weekend! Between Cinco de Mayo (a super big deal in Texas), and the Kentucky Derby (which I professed my love for here), I’m definitely looking forward to my first weekend of summer. My first year in Austin has exceeded my expectations, and I feel so proud of myself for a great school year. Besides the start of summer, here are some things I’m loving this week!

{What girl doesn’t dream of being whisked away by a handsome man on a vespa someday? If that man is your groom and the vespa is your wedding getaway vehicle, then even better! So adorable :) By Alison Conklin Photography via Style Me Pretty}

{How’s this for a Cinco de Mayo setup? That funky fabric backdrop definitely makes it. Good party-throwing tip to remember! By Click Photo Designs by Sarah Brewer via Belly Feathers Party Blog}

{First of all, this entire bridal party is gorgeous. Second, I would love to wear any one of their mismatched dresses. Third, they are carrying flowers in vintage purses. Anyone else as jealous as I am? By Shannen Norman Photography via Style Me Pretty}

{A last bit of derby inspiration! I loved this preppy shoot on Green Wedding Shoes, full of BHLDN gowns, bright flowers, bold stripes,a and of course, a fabulous hat or two. Be sure to check it out! By Annie Edmonds Photography via Green Wedding Shoes}

Here’s to kicking back and switching off between margaritas and mint juleps this weekend. Have a good one!

Love,

Lisa

Dress Envy

Lisa — Thu, 03 May 2012 12:38:56 +0000

I know it’s been months, but I’m still a little bit sad that Priscilla of Boston is closed. Dresses like this one, by former Priscilla of Boston designer, Melissa Sweet, are just too gorgeous not to be made anymore! I guess in a way, that makes it even more special for the brides who were lucky enough to be Priscilla brides.

I love how the bodice of the dress is classic and sweet, and the bottom of the dress is so fun and different with all of those little petals! It’s so romantic, and romantic dresses are definitely my favorite. These shots are from a gorgeous ballroom wedding in Minnesota, photographed by Emily Steffen, via The Wedding Chicks.

Love,

Lisa