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This Elegant Forte da Cruz Wedding Offered Stunning Views of the Sea

September 10, 2024 | justine

Aguiam Wedding Photography

Jessica and Padma wanted an intimate and joyful day, blending classic and modern styles. They embraced their diverse Portuguese and Indian backgrounds, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that made their guests feel special and included in their love story. With a stunning seaside venue, a jewel-toned color palette, and outstanding fashion, their Forte da Cruz wedding beautifully combined timeless elegance with personal touches.

In a charming spot within the historic fort, the couple said their vows against a backdrop of greenery and flowers. The celebration moved to the terrace for a stunning reception, where the tables were adorned with rich floral arrangements and gold details. As the evening went on, guests enjoyed dining, dancing, and celebrating under the magical glow of twinkling lights.

Their incredible big day blended their love story with the beautiful surroundings, making it a must-see event. Check out the gorgeous details captured by Junebug vendor Aguiam Wedding Photographer.

The Couple:

Jessica and Padma

The Wedding:

Forte da Cruz, Estoril, Portugal

 

Forte da Cruz Wedding Day Highlights: An Emotional First Look and a Heartfelt Piano Performance

The most memorable part of our wedding day was undoubtedly the moment we saw each other for the first time during our first look. It was a deeply emotional and intimate experience, allowing us to share a few quiet moments together before the ceremony. Another unforgettable highlight was Jessica’s niece playing piano and singing during dinner–a moment that will stay with us forever.

 

Aguiam Wedding Photography

Personalizing the Ceremony with Rich Cultural Traditions

We personalized our ceremony by seamlessly blending the rich cultural traditions of our respective heritages. Jessica, being Portuguese, and I, being Indian, wanted to ensure that our unique backgrounds were celebrated and honored throughout the event.

The Importance of Connecting with Your Wedding Vendors

One of the best pieces of advice we can give couples when planning their wedding is to stay true to themselves and their vision. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the many opinions and trends out there, but your wedding should reflect your unique love story and personality. Also, prioritize hiring vendors that you connect with and trust—they will make a significant difference in bringing your vision to life.

How Every Element Contributed to a Truly Memorable Wedding

We are incredibly proud of how every element of our wedding came together to create a truly magical day. The meticulous attention to detail in the decor and design made our venue look breathtakingly beautiful. Most importantly, we are proud of the heartfelt and joyous atmosphere that was felt by everyone present, making our wedding day a genuine celebration of love, family, and friendship.

 

How Forte da Cruz Captured Their Unique Wedding Vision

We chose Forte da Cruz in Estoril, Portugal, because it perfectly embodies the fusion of our backgrounds. The venue is a historic castle by the sea, offering stunning views and a sense of timeless elegance, making it the perfect backdrop for our special day.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Aguiam Wedding Photographer
Event Planning + Floral Design + DJ – Lisbon Wedding Planner
Venue – Forte da Cruz
Catering – Penha Longa Catering

 

Congratulations to Jessica and Padma on their elegant Forte da Cruz wedding with stunning views of the sea. A huge thank you to Junebug vendor Aguiam Wedding Photographer for beautifully capturing all the stunning details. To see more of their beautiful work, check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

By incorporating elements that highlight your unique style and heritage—whether it’s through decor, fashion, or other details—you’ll craft a meaningful and memorable celebration. For more easy-to-follow ideas on achieving this, look at our guide full of creative tips and tricks.

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Stylish Fall Wedding Guest Dresses for 2024

September 9, 2024 | kailey

Image by Jessie Casey.

The leaves are changing, the air is getting crisp, and invitations have flooded your mailbox. This can only mean one thing: fall wedding season is here! If you’ve been invited to an autumn celebration, it’s the perfect time to elevate your wedding attire. Luckily, shopping for fall wedding guest dresses is a breeze. You get to play around with warm color palettes, fun patterns, and a variety of different fabric materials. 

So, if you’ve got a fall wedding or two on your calendar this year and still haven’t chosen an outfit, don’t worry. We’ve rounded up some stylish fall wedding guest dresses you can easily buy online, so you’ll look fashionable and wedding-ready in no time.

Before diving into fashion inspiration, here are a few tips for selecting the perfect fall wedding guest outfit:

  • When selecting your outfit, keep the wedding location in mind. For example, if it’s outdoors, opt for warmer fabrics and layers. For indoor venues, choose elegant fabrics like satin or velvet.
  • Pick an outfit you feel confident in, as a wedding is a fun and photo-filled day.
  • Stick with a color palette that complements the wedding theme and season. For fall weddings, consider autumn hues like burgundy, deep greens, or earthy tones. 
  • Don’t be afraid to play around with different warmer fabrics like velvet, wool, or tweed.

The options are endless when it comes to finding the perfect wedding guest outfit. By keeping these tips in mind during your shopping experience, you’ll be sure to find an outfit that is stylish, comfortable, and perfect for the fall season. 

Fall Wedding Guest Dresses From Reformation

Jamen Knit Dress; Velda Dress; Casette Silk Dress; Silvana Dress; Kastoria Dress; Stasia Silk Dress

Fall Wedding Guest Dresses From Lulus

Distinctive Charm Olive Green Satin Asymmetrical Midi Dress; So Loving Rust Orange Satin Pleated Lace-Up Backless Maxi Dress; Compelling Style Black Strapless A-Line Maxi Dress; I’m Enchanted Burgundy Velvet Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress; Whimsical Beauty Dark Purple Satin Plisse Strapless Maxi Dress; Molinetto Navy Blue Lace Ruffled Tiered Sleeveless Maxi Dress

Fall Wedding Guest Dresses From Anthropologie 

Significant Other Demi Backless Long-Sleeve Column Gown; Hutch Printed Twist-Front Puff-Sleeve Ruffle-Hem Dress; BHLDN Amelia Deep-V Stretch Velvet Maxi Dress; BHLDN Leila Deep-V Flutter-Sleeve Satin A-Line Gown; The Wolf Gang Cinta Bow Midi Dress; Mac Duggal Strapless Brocade High-Low A-Line Maxi Dress

Fall Wedding Guest Dresses From Revolve 

Lucille Slip Dress; by Marianna Benita Gown; Stella Dress; x REVOLVE Angel Strapless Midi Dress; Cinta Dress; Field Of Dreams Dress

When choosing a wedding guest outfit, it’s important to consider the theme, location, and season of the event. Each season offers a variety of stunning options to explore. Once you’ve found the perfect fall wedding guest dress, it’s time to start planning for the next celebration. Check out our guides for spring, summer, and winter wedding guest dresses—we promise you’ll be the best dressed all year long!

Image by Lauren Wysocki. See more of this real wedding here.

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25 Old Hollywood Wedding Ideas to Help You Step Back in Time

September 9, 2024 | riley
old hollywood wedding ideas hero

Image by Carl Heyerdahl

More and more couples are looking to host timeless celebrations that will never go out of style–think looking at your wedding photos 20 years later and still loving every detail. That’s why the Old Hollywood theme has become so popular over the past year or so. With glamorous touches that are all about luxury, elegance, and a touch of drama, this celebration will wow your guests from the minute they arrive. So, if you’re thinking about hosting an old-fashioned soiree, we’re breaking down 25 ideas that will help your guests step back in time.

25 Old Hollywood Wedding Ideas

1. Vintage Invitations

Your invitations are the first glimpse guests will have of your wedding, so it’s the perfect time to incorporate your theme. Opt for invitations that evoke the era with Art Deco patterns, elegant fonts, and luxurious materials like foil-stamped paper or vellum overlays. To go the extra mile, consider including RSVP cards styled as movie tickets or vintage postcards, complete with black-and-white illustrations of your venue or a glamorous portrait of you and your partner.

Shop Invitations: Vintage Art Nouveau Wedding Invitation Template; 2. Old Money Wedding Invitation Suite; 3. Editable Black Wavy Wedding Invitation Template; 4. Retro Wedding Invitation Template

2. Glamorous Venue

When you’re searching for your venue, look for locations with historical significance, art deco architecture, or opulent interiors that evoke the glamour of the 1920s to 1950s. Historic theaters, old mansions, and grand ballrooms with crystal chandeliers, gilded mirrors, and marble floors are all perfect choices. Of course, you can always bring decor in if the venue doesn’t check those boxes. However, the more your venue has, the less you’ll spend on rentals.

Recommended Reading: Questions to Ask Wedding Venues Before Booking

3. Monochrome Color Scheme

A black-and-white color palette is the definition of timeless. To keep things dynamic, include textures like velvet, satin, and lace. For example, black tablecloths paired with white floral arrangements and gold or silver flatware can create an elegant tablescape. You can also incorporate subtle accents of metallics, shades of red, or even blush pinks to soften the overall look while maintaining the theme’s sophistication.

4. Marquee Signage

Nothing says “Hollywood” like your name in lights. Create custom marquee-style signage to display outside your venue, at the entrance to your reception, or as a focal point behind the sweetheart table. You could even go so far as to replicate the look of a classic movie theater marquee, complete with changeable letters to spell out your names, wedding date, or a romantic message.

5. Vintage Decor

Incorporate elements of old Hollywood into your décor by using vintage film reels, cameras, clapperboards, records, old hotel keys, etc. These can be used as centerpieces, displayed on escort card tables, or even integrated into your ceremony décor. You might also consider incorporating black-and-white movie stills or posters from your favorite classic films into your décor.

avalon wedding ceremony

Image by Amanda K Photography via Pinterest

6. Tents

We know what you’re probably thinking. How are tents Old Hollywood? They’re common at every wedding and make for a great weather backup in case you’re tying the knot somewhere where there’s a high chance of rain or snow. However, there’s something about including tents and umbrellas that feels extremely timeless. They were very common in the 50s and 60s around the pool, which is why they’re perfect when trying to recreate these decades.

7. Hollywood Glam Bridal Attire

Channel your inner starlet with a wedding dress that reflects the glamour of the era. Look for gowns with luxurious fabrics like satin, silk, or lace, and details such as intricate beading, sequins, or feather accents. If there’s a gown that you have your eye on that is not necessarily as retro as you’d like, you can opt for a reception dress that acts as a nod to the decades. Don’t forget to include classic touches like a veil, gloves, and drop earrings.

Shop reception dresses:

8. Tuxedo with a Classic Twist

For those looking to wear a suit, nothing says Old Hollywood like a classic tuxedo. Opt for a black tux with a bow tie for a timeless look, or consider a white dinner or double-breasted jacket for a more distinguished look. 

9. Red Lipstick and Pin Curls

When it comes to beauty, a bold red lip is a great place to start. Paired with winged eyeliner and a flawless complexion, you can channel the glamour of stars like Marilyn Monroe and Rita Hayworth. Hairstyles should also reflect the era—think polished pin curls, sleek finger waves, or glamorous updos adorned with sparkling hairpins or vintage combs. 

old hollywood wedding flat lay

Image by Rachel Rowland

10. Incorporate Pearls

Nothing embodies timelessness quite like pearls. Whether adorning your bridal gown, accessorizing your bridal party, or enhancing your décor, pearls bring a touch of vintage glamour to any wedding. Think classic pearl necklaces and delicate earrings. You can also include the stone in your decor.

Shop pearl accessories:

11. Cigarette Girls

Cigarette girls were a staple of nightclubs and theaters during the golden age of Hollywood. For a fun and interactive element at your wedding, hire actors or entertainers to dress as cigarette girls, complete with vintage uniforms and trays. Instead of cigarettes, they can offer guests cigars, candy, or even mini bottles of champagne. This adds a touch of authenticity to your theme and provides guests with a unique experience they’ll remember.

12. Cigar Bar

If you’re not into including cigarette girls, you can still include a cigar bar. Picture your guests enjoying a fine cigar paired with a glass of whiskey or a vintage cocktail. With vintage cigar boxes, custom labels, and plush seating, a cigar bar becomes more than just a feature—it’s an entertainment moment that your guests won’t be able to stop talking about.

champagne tower wedding portrait

Image by Andrew Bayda

13. Champagne Tower

A champagne tower has become a wedding staple. During the reception, pour champagne from the top glass, letting it cascade down the tower to fill the glasses below, making for the perfect photo opportunity.

14. Vintage Getaway Car

Make your exit as glamorous as your entrance by leaving in a vintage car. Classic models like a Rolls Royce, Bentley, or Cadillac are ideal for the theme, although you really can’t go wrong. Decorate the car with a “Just Married” sign and vintage-style cans tied to the bumper to really complete the look.

15. Old Hollywood Music

Music plays a crucial role in setting the mood for your wedding. A live jazz band or big band orchestra can transport your guests back to the golden age. For the ceremony, consider walking down the aisle to an instrumental version of a classic love song from the era. During cocktail hour or your dinner, create a playlist that includes the likes of Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Nat King Cole to keep the vibe elegant and nostalgic.

black tie old hollywood wedding

Image by Stephanie M. Photo via Pinterest

16. Black Tie Dress Code

Encourage your guests to dress the part by setting a black-tie dress code. This not only adds to the overall ambiance of your wedding but also ensures that everyone looks their best. If you want to take it a step further, give them an assigned color (i.e., all black or red), to create a stunning, cohesive look. Just be sure to let them know ahead of time via your invites or website!

Recommended Reading: How to Address a Wedding Dress Code

17. Dramatic Lighting

Lighting is key to creating a cinematic atmosphere at your wedding. Soft, romantic lighting can be achieved with chandeliers, uplighting, and an abundance of candles. Consider using gold or amber lighting to cast a warm, flattering glow over your venue, or add a bit of drama with spotlights highlighting key areas like the dance floor or sweetheart table. 

18. Checkered Dance Floor

This iconic black-and-white design will instantly make your guests think of the glamorous ballrooms back in the day. The bold contrast of the checkered pattern is not only stunning (and makes for incredible photos) but also sets the stage for an unforgettable night of dancing

wedding photo booth

Image by Melody Joy via Pinterest

19. Vintage Photo Booth

A photo booth with a vintage twist is a must-have. Set up a booth with a black-and-white camera to capture the glamour of the era. Provide props like fedoras, feather boas, faux cigars, and vintage props for guests to pose with. These photos are fun keepsakes for your guests and a unique addition to your wedding album.

20. Typewriter Guest Book

This charming detail allows your guests to type out their well wishes and advice on an antique typewriter, creating a one-of-a-kind keepsake filled with heartfelt messages. Display the typewriter on a vintage desk with rolls of parchment or custom stationery, and let your guests type their hearts out.

21. Vintage Post Cards as a Guest Book Alternative

Whether featuring classic movie posters, iconic landmarks in the city where you’re tying the knot, or star-studded scenes, each postcard adds a touch of nostalgia to your big day. This unique guest book idea not only ties in perfectly with your theme but also leaves you with a cherished memento that you’ll love looking back on. This one does require a little more planning but hit up your local thrift or antique stores to collect them throughout the months leading up to your wedding.

22. Retro Signature Cocktails

Drinks like martinis, Manhattans, and Old Fashioneds are the perfect beverages to offer to your guests if you want to tie the theme into your food and drinks. For a personal touch, create a signature cocktail that reflects your personality or love story, and name it after something special to the two of you. To finish it off, display the cocktail menu in an art deco frame or on a marquee-style sign for added flair.

23. Vintage Inspired Glassware

We know that serving drinks in glassware isn’t practical for every wedding, but if you’re hosting a small celebration, consider serving drinks in vintage-inspired glassware–even if it’s just champagne toast in coupes. Serve your signature cocktails or bubbly in glassware that sparkles under the glow of chandeliers, enhancing the nostalgic atmosphere of your celebration.

24. Vintage Wedding Cake

When it comes to your wedding cake, go vintage with intricate lace-like piping, art deco patterns, and classic white-on-white designs. Opt for tiers adorned with pearls, delicate sugar flowers, or gilded accents that sparkle. 

25. Hollywood Ending

End your wedding with a grand finale worthy of the silver screen. If your venue allows, a fireworks display can provide a breathtaking conclusion to your celebration, leaving your guests with memories of a wedding that felt like a scene from a classic Hollywood movie. 

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