As we are all slowly coming out from a lock down with travel vouchers just sitting in our email ready to be put to use, we thought we would share some destination wedding inspiration today. In our last post we shared ideas for micro weddings since traditional weddings as we knew them are becoming a thing of the past, but why not take advantage of the smaller guest count and get out of your backyard? Unfortunately, some of these locations may not be accessible to us Americans for a while, but all the more time for planning! 

When planning a destination wedding we recommend having a go-to person with his/her feet on the ground that is able to speak directly to all of the vendors you will be working with for your wedding. This will probably be a wedding planner, or close family member that lives close to the venue. 

We have put together our dream destinations depending on what your preferred background may be for your nuptials. 

Mountain Views:

Washington state - We heard a rumor that you can get married in a tree house!

Tropical Paradise:

The Caribbean - Make life easy for your guests and you by planning the whole wedding weekend in a resort which will help the celebration last for days rather than just one night.

Mellow Mediterranean:

Amalfi Coast, Italy - I made the mistake of missing this stop on my last Italy trip, so now you need to go and send pictures!

Countryside Romance:

Ireland - This is where the real party is, a Guinness (or whiskey) toast for everyone! 

Exotic Adventures:

Bali - Culture, Beauty, and villas for days!

Change it up:

Pick a location where your family is from and explore the area! This could be domestic or international, the goal is just to get out of your neighborhood. 

*Don’t forget to get the paperwork side of wedding planning done before you leave if you’re choosing a location abroad. You will want to be legally married when you say “I Do!” *

Happy traveling!

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

As a bridal consultant, one of the questions I ask every bride is “how many people are you expecting at your wedding?” This would typically be answered in the hundreds. Now the response I get is, “well, we were planning for X amount, but now we are just wait to see what will be allowed.” And this is for weddings over a year from now! We are starting to think that micro-weddings may be the way of the future, so why not start planning for them rather than fearing them? 

What you’ll need: 

• A Dress:

  That is your preference if you’d rather order a white dress from Revolve, or pick up a more traditional dress at a bridal salon’s stock collection. Just remember that this will probably be the most photographed dress (or jumpsuit!) you will ever wear, so make sure you love it! 

• Flowers:

  Want to save money on a florist? Raid your local grocery store (or bodega if you are in NYC) and pick your own flowers! This could be a fun adventure for you and your mom/maid of honor. Pick a variety of options and then mix and match for bouquets and center pieces. 

• Backdrop:

  We believe it’s still important to have a great backdrop for your ceremony, even if only a handful of people sitting down to look at it. Just think of the pictures!! This could be anything from an extensive flower arch, or your family home’s front door decorated in the most romantic way possible. 

• Photographer:

  Whether this is someone that you trust with a point and shoot camera, or a professional with a face mask, you are going to want pictures of your wedding to fill your Instagram and the walls of your first home together. Don’t skimp out on the photos, they will help you share your special day with everyone in your life. 

• Borders:

  Don’t let your micro wedding feel empty just because you couldn’t have hundreds people in attendance. Enclose the area where you are having your reception to give it a more intimate feel. We love the idea of doing this with fairy lights or draped fabric!

Only invite the people you love most: Blood may be thicker than water, but put the people you love to sit back with a glass of wine with at the top of the list. Think about who will be sitting on your front porch rocking chairs with you 30 years down the road and invite those friends and family to join you for your intimate nuptials. 

Which wedding detail do you feel like you can’t live without while planning your Micro Wedding?

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

The search for your wedding vendor team has begun and by that I mean the stress of sifting through the hundreds of caterers, planners, bands, and everyone else needed to throw your dream wedding. You’ve probably realized by now that you need to either up the budget a little or cut back on a few ideas.

The one place you shouldn’t cut from? Your photos.

(and the food, but I digress)

Meet Berit Bizjak (illustrated above):

She’s a luxury wedding photographer with 20 years experience in the industry. Her first photo job experience was as a sports photographer (the football fan in me is LIVING for this) in NYC after getting her BFA in Photography (honors, ya’ll!) and only after that did she start concentrating in fine art photography and assisting other photographers at weddings. Fast forward to after her kids being in school full time, she founded her business, Images by Berit. But, she didn’t stop there and proceeded to spend the next 2 years in intensive training so she could learn how to best run her business and photograph weddings. She has since become a Certified Professional Photographer and Berit says this is “a milestone that means that I can actually succeed in the unusual combination of technical and artistic skills, also known as fine art wedding photography”.

So much more goes into being a wedding photographer than people realize so Berit has given us a few reasons why it’s completely worth it to spend those extra bucks and go “luxury”:

1. They got the skills

By the time a photographer has reached the level of photographing high-end weddings, her skills will be second nature, allowing her to be fully present and creative on your day of celebration. You won’t have to worry about consistency in her documentation and portraiture, or having the proper equipment and back-ups to do the work

2. They can actually handle your wedding day sh*t

Calmness is key, as well as organization and professionalism. Your photographer should be accustomed to working with event planners and other professionals in high-demand environments that involve precise timing. She’s always got your back

3. They never stop learning

We continually take courses, seminars, and live training, as the industry is constantly evolving. This will cumulatively affect the results of your images

4. They understand the importance of a timeline

She understands the cadence of your wedding day, as most of us have photographed hundreds and hundreds of weddings. Your photographer should know how to multitask and know what to expect while welcoming the unexpected, too! If you live in the northeast, we also know how to work with and prepare for constantly changing lighting. From dark ballrooms to shooting on a sun-drenched beach, it’s all in our back pocket

5. They’re dedicated

Successful luxury photographers love their craft, and love humanity. She gets excited about learning new cultures and traditions, and studies them in detail prior to your wedding day. Her dedication and love of people should show in everything she does

6. No shortcuts. Ever.

She loves the work, and spends unlimited time with her clients before, during, and even after your wedding. The quality of her products and albums are the best in the industry, with every detail attended to

7. They take the time to make everything feel right

She takes the time to get to know you as a couple (engagement photo sessions are great for this), and it shows in your imagery. Couples should look and feel relaxed, and should have some fun, also! Creating unique portraiture that you are comfortable with is important

8. They get you the results you want

There is a reason you love her work, and you may not know exactly why, but I would say it’s because of all of the above. Experience does cost more, but photography is the only tangible from your wedding that grows more valuable with time

Just to drive #8 home: remember that when all is said and done, what you’re left with to remember your special day (besides your memories) are your photos/video, so make sure they’re the best they can be!

You can find Berit on Instagram @imagesbyberit or peak her BEAUTIFUL photos through her website, www.imagesbyberit.com. She’s not only a talented photographer, but is such a genuine person with a love for learning and passion for celebrating the differences that make us who we are.

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Bridal gowns come in every different shape and style you could ever imagine (and then some), but not every bride wants the trendy sheer bodice with a plunging neckline that hits just about the belly button. Seeing these trends flood Pinterest pages can worry some more modest brides, making them think they can’t get a beautiful wedding dress without making a large amount of custom changes to a gown. It is possible to look beautiful and elegant without showing much skin in the process. Below are our favorite neckline and sleeve options for a more modest bride to look absolutely stunning on her wedding day. 

Neck lines:

-Boat neck- this neckline accentuates the collar bone by falling just below while scooping up at the top of the shoulders. 

-Scoop neck- a mix between a boat neck and a sweetheart style, this neckline shows slightly more chest while still keeping you covered from all angles. 

-Mock neck- a turtleneck's little sister, the mock neck style shows off your long neck while allowing optimum detail to fill the neckline. 

-Illusion neck- most of these necklines could also fall until the illusion neck family. Illusion is simply tulle that is either your skin tone or ivory (white in the bridal world). This is then covered in pieces of lace appliqué and could be either lined or unlined underneath. Illusion is intended to give the tattooed lace look, as if there is nothing there but the beautiful lace. The more lace on the illusion, the more modest the final look is. This also leads to much easier alterations if you love a gown, but wish it covered more surface area. 

The sleeve lengths are a little more self explanatory. It’s also good to keep in mind that any full sleeve can pretty much be altered to any of the other sleeve lengths:

-Sleeveless 

-Cap sleeve 

-Elbow length 

-¾ sleeve 

-Full sleeve 

Another great option to cover a more revealing gown is a bridal jacket, or bolero. These can be removed after the ceremony, or sewn onto the gown for permanent coverage. These come in hundreds of different styles and can be easily added to any gown. They do work best with sweetheart necklines typically. These are also great for anyone’s winter wedding when trying to get photos outside! 

With these options alone, you have hundreds of unique combinations for your ideal wedding gown to make you feel comfortable and confident!

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

Don’t get us wrong, we will never turn down a good slice of cake. All we’re saying is that there are so many amazing dessert options available and we don’t want to have to narrow down our wedding sweets selections to just a classic cake! We asked around and these are the ideas that made our mouths water the most. 

1. A Donut Wall 

Kim Kardashian broke the internet with a flower wall backdrop at her wedding, but instead of flowers why not try something even happier like donuts? There’s no cutting, serving, or even silverware required. Each guest can choose which donut they want and when they want it! The wall can also be used as a background for any other dessert options you decide on. This allows for maximum sweet selection at your wedding  

2. An Ice Cream Bar

If you are getting married in the summer heat your guests will thank you for a nice cool ice cream bar. Have a few base ice cream options and then let your guests go wild over the topping selection. Get creative without breaking the bank. Try pretzels, brownie crumbles, maple bacon, or even your favorite cereal. 

3. A Candy Shop 

This is extra exciting if you choose to have children at your wedding, but we guarantee that candy brings out the inner child in everyone. Make the selection unique by getting customized M&M’s in your wedding colors with your names stamped proudly. 

4. Mini Pies

What’s more patriotic than an apple pie? If you’re having an Independence Day Soirée, consider filling your guests with American pride pies. Try apple, cherry, and blueberry and maybe even lay them out to look like an American flag! Pies also give a “grandma’s kitchen” vibe if you’re having a backyard, family focused event. Serve whatever pies make you feel most at home! 

5. A Twist Off of the Classic: Cupcakes! 

Cupcakes are very trendy right now, and for good reason. They are so many amazing combinations and you don’t have to pick just one like you would for a cake! Having cupcakes means a variety of flavors and decorations. Try s’mores with a toasted marshmallow on top, cinnamon roll with glaze over the icing, maybe even a gluten free/vegan cupcake for those with diet restrictions. As someone who can’t eat dairy with a mom who can’t eat gluten, it means a lot when those things are considered when attending an event. Obviously, you don’t have to stress over every person’s preferences, but options are never bad! 

Have you heard of an even more unique wedding dessert selection? Please share! A fun sweet is never forgotten. 

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here

As people are traveling and migrating more than ever before, many of us (myself included) find ourselves in relationships with people from outside our nationality and/or culture. Usually, it’s great! You get to learn about new holidays, languages, try new foods, and maybe even get to visit their country.

Then comes the wedding planning

And the wedding stress, but not just any wedding stress. No, you are now tasked with having to combine traditions, foods, and (sometimes) ceremonies. It can be done and it will be amazing, but maybe you’ll need a little guidance in balancing your family’s desire to serve an entire roasted lamb with your in-laws vegetarian preferences.

Meet Christine Godsey, founder of CG & Co Events and specialist on multicultural weddings. She’s been planning these events in the DC area for 12 years (and BEAUTIFULLY, I might add) so, I’ve combined our top tips for pulling off an amazing, blended wedding:

1. Let’s start off with the most important one: This is YOUR wedding. Keep in mind the traditions and beliefs you hold as a couple, because those are the ones that come first.

Yes, you don’t want to upset your family. Yes, most of the time they’re the ones paying for it. But most of all, they want you to be happy. So before you read the rest of the list, remember that the most important people of the day are you and your fiance, and it’s about your union whatever that looks like.

2. Think about traditions that have a special meaning to you or your family

Just because you or your parents (or grandparents) came from a certain place or religion, doesn’t mean every aspect has to make an appearance at your wedding. Really narrow down the things that are important to you and it’ll be much easier to incorporate.

3. Be sure to ask your parents what is important to them, 9 times out of 10 they will certainly feel strongly about including certain traditions into your ceremony

Most of the time, you will end up compromising a little to make your parents happy. However, many of the traditions your parents will insist on will have to do with the ceremony. Have them make a list so you can go over it together and discuss what will actually be a part of your day.

4. Get creative with fusion foods, music, performances to highlight both cultures

The best part of multicultural weddings! Find a caterer that can put a custom menu together using key flavors or dishes from both cultures. Maybe your first dance song can be your choice and a traditional dance performance can be done for your fiance’s side. Really play around with these aspects to make your reception the best of both worlds.

5. Check with the parents of your fiance to learn about any religious dietary (vegan, vegetarian, jain, kosher, halal, etc) or alcohol restrictions. If these are not addressed early it could unnecessarily offend guests

Whether it’s through extremely clear buffet labeling, strategically placed bars, or making sure the vegetarian option is gluten free, it’s definitely important to go over this one early. Food is the center of many cultures and the last thing you want on your wedding day is upset guests.

6. Sometimes, the only compromise is to do everything

If you have the means, don't feel bad about doing 2 different ceremonies or 1 extended ceremony to incorporate all of the elements for both traditions. Some people serve one cuisine at the rehearsal dinner and the other at the reception. Others will have the main wedding in one country and a small ceremony in another. It’s completely normal in some cultures for wedding celebrations to span across multiple days and a variety of events.

7. Everyone, yes everyone, will have an opinion about what you should do so be prepared to stand firm in some areas.  It helps to have a planner for these types of situations

Please refer back to tip #1 on who’s opinion is the most important. If you’re having trouble, a planner is a great 3rd party to have. They’re amazing at blending your traditions and preferences the best way possible, but they’re also the best mediator when it comes to sorting out details.

Get in touch with Christine at www.cgandcoevents.com and be sure to check out all her beautiful events on Instagram @cgandcoevents for a little wedding inspo.

Happy planning!

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Bridal gown shopping can be a daunting part of your wedding checklist.

If you are like us and love shopping, the sheer amount of gown options is overwhelming. If you dread the idea of stepping into a store to find a new pair of jeans, then gown shopping is something that you will put off as long as possible. No matter which one describes you best, what you need to understand is that your bridal consultant will use her expertise to find you the most memorable dress of your life. The experience should make you feel beautiful, confident, and ready to marry the person of your dreams.

To help you prepare for your bridal appointment, we have created a list of questions you should be ready to ask and answer during the course of your consultation. We recommend going in with an open mind, a Pinterest board of inspiration pictures, and neutral colored underwear.  

The top 5 questions you should be asking your professional bridal consultant: 

1. What would you recommend based on my body type?

- No matter what, though, you should choose your gown based off of what makes you feel best, not just what you are expected to wear. Also know that bridal sizes are significantly different than street sizes. Leave the numbers to the consultant and know that you will never be ordering that size again! 

2. How do you bustle this gown?

- Make sure your consultant shows you how the bustle will look on the gown. You should also record the tailor showing you the final bustle so that even after a glass of champagne, your maid of honor will be able to get you ready for your first dance with no delays. 

3. How would you accessorize my dream gown?

- Sometimes you can get discounts by ordering your accessories at the same location as your gown! Sticking to one location for all of your gown needs is the best way to ensure consistency and possible discounts. 

4. What is delivery time right now?

- Are you asking for something on your gown that would be considered custom and would up the cost and the turnaround time?

5. How much are alterations?

- Also remember that alterations mean different things at different salons, so make sure your consultant goes into detail about what they consider alterations. Does their price include full fittings, a bustle, and steaming? 

The top 5 questions your bridal consultant should be asking you: 

1. What is your budget?

- When deciding on a budget don't forget about alterations, shoes, and any other accessories you may want. Be specific about the budget you give your consultant, she/he will need to know how much you would like to spend on your gown in order to pull properly from the sample options. 

2. What makes you feel beautiful?

- This is not what your mom thinks, what you think you should think, or what some stranger on the internet wants you to think (Hi!). Your consultant wants to know exactly what makes you feel your most stunning when you look in the mirror. 

3. How do you picture yourself looking on your wedding day?

- This means picturing yourself surrounded by your flowers, your venue, the bridesmaids dresses you will be selecting after your bridal appointment. Your gown will set the tone for your entire wedding. 

4. What are your favorite features of your body?

- Do you like your collar bones? Let’s show them off! Do you like your legs? Get a gown with a slit!

5. What are your least favorite features on your body?

- Would you prefer to cover your arms? Maybe think about doing an off-the-shoulder moment. Don’t like cleavage? Let’s look at high neck options and switch things up! 

There are thousands of wedding gowns for you to choose from. Enjoy the shopping process, but never forget the reason for the shopping adventure. You stopped dating after you met the man (or woman) of your dreams, stop shopping once you find the gown of your dreams!

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here