WEDDING BLOG

Absolutely Magical Lisbon Botanical Garden Wedding

August 5, 2021 | Junebug Weddings

Our jaws dropped when we saw this Lisbon botanical garden wedding—geometric-shaped shrubberies, luscious greenery, and a gorgeous view of the city. From getting ready together to asking their maids of honor to officiate the wedding, Luc and João’s wedding was intimate, magical, and incredibly personal.

To add to the magic, wedding planner Muza Weddings Concept adorned their wedding altar with large clear acrylic blocks, candles, and black cubes. Plus, the reception decor was breathtaking: rattan peacock chairs, lounging couches, and vibrant green florals. You’ll have to see to believe, so keep scrolling to see photos captured by Hugo Coelho.

The Couple:

Luc and João

The Wedding:

Estufa Real, Lisbon, Portugal

Planning Their Lisbon Botanical Garden Wedding

The most important part of planning was to plan a wedding that looked like us. We wanted to make something meaningful without being too influenced by traditions and the people around us. It was liberating and inspiring to be able to do whatever we wanted.

Celebrating Love

We’re most proud to have been able to gather all our closest friends and family to celebrate not just our love, but love in general. It was so important to us to give a message of tolerance because the ability to freely love who you love is sadly not given to everyone. We wanted to show that no matter if you’re gay, straight, or in-between, it’s all about the love you share.

Officiated By Their Maids of Honor

The most memorable part of the day was the symbolic ceremony. We asked our Maids of Honor (Luc’s best friend and João’s sister) to write and to officiate the ceremony because we wanted it to be very intimate and personal. It was a magical moment that had us in tears from the beginning to the end. They also included speeches from both of our moms. It was really moving.

Advice For Nearlyweds

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming and even more so during the COVID-19 pandemic. What we have learned during the process was to be resilient together. This COVID wedding was proof that if you are willing to compromise on your vision together, you can still get a beautiful wedding surrounded by those who really matter.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Hugo Coelho
Event Planning + Invitation Design – Muza Weddings Concept
Venue – Jardim Botânico da Ajuda, Estufa Real
Floral Design – kckliko
Catering – Estufa Real
DJ – Groovebox
Videography – Pixel
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Tom Perdigão
Rings – Cartier
Rentals – The Rental Factory

Congratulations to Luc and João on their magical Lisbon botanical garden wedding. And a big shout out to Hugo Coelho and the entire vendor team for creating this spectacular ceremony. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect wedding team, we’ve got vendors from around the world who can help you. And to get started on your planning, head over to our wedding planning page to get started. Happy planning!

9 Chic Amazon Bridesmaid Gifts Under $30

August 4, 2021 | Junebug Weddings

Image by Cody & Allison Photography. See more of this real wedding here.

Your bridal party has been there for you through every step of your wedding journey and they will be there for you on the big day. Finding them the perfect gift that says “thank you for being my bridesmaid” can be exciting and daunting. In a perfect world, it should be fun. We’re here to help make that happen. If you are looking for more budget-friendly items that don’t look, well, budget-friendly, we’ve got you covered.

We scoured Amazon so you wouldn’t have to and found nine Amazon bridesmaid gifts under $30. Don’t worry, we included gifts that work for any gender in your group! Get logged into your Amazon Prime account and get ready to shop the perfect gifts for your bridal party!

Amazon Bridesmaid Gift Ideas

Stemless Champagne Flutes

If you’re planning on popping champagne during the bachelorette party, and while getting ready on your big day, matching champagne flutes are a great way to go. These bridesmaid stemless champagne flutes are great for photos and are a great memento your party can keep after the wedding.

Stainless Steel Wine Tumbler

Whether it’s wine, a cocktail, or even a smoothie, stainless steel tumblers are always a good idea. These “I Do Crew” tumblers are perfect for your bridal party to use at the bachelorette party and while getting ready. These can be reused after the wedding like the champagne flutes, and are budget-friendly.

Makeup Bags

Makeup bags are universally used to hold everything you will need for getting ready for the big day and beyond. These Bride’s Team Makeup Bags are large enough to hold all their brushes, mascaras, lipsticks, and anything in between. Plus, this doubles as a great travel bag for their carry-ons.

Mini Spa Gift Box

Giving the gift of relaxation and zen is a great way to show your appreciation for everyone in your bridal party. This mini spa gift box includes a lip balm, bath bomb, and soap bar that is perfect for post-wedding relaxation.

Soy Candle

You may not be a stranger to the joys of finding a perfect candle for your home, so give that same feeling to your bridesmaids! This soy candle is a great way to say thank you, and also serves as a nice reminder of the big day. Every time they smell or light this candle, they will think of you and your friendship.

Marble Notebooks

If you’re planning to give your bridesmaids gifts before the wedding, marble notebooks are a great idea. They can use it for helping you plan your bridal shower and bachelorette party, or use it for their own personal use. Either way, these chic notebooks will keep their plans straight.

Bridesmaid Accessory Ideas

Not-So-Matchy Necklaces

If you want to give your bridesmaids jewelry to wear on your big day, check out these sterling silver astrology necklaces. They won’t tarnish quickly like cheaper jewelry, and you can personalize them to each one of your bridesmaids. It’s a great way for your friends to have matching jewelry for the big day while still being curated for each friend.

Knot Earrings

Necklaces not your style? These knot earrings are a great reminder that your friends are there to watch you tie the knot. This gift comes in three different finishes, so you can choose the one that best fits your wedding colors, or whichever finishes your friends would like best.

Bonus: If your bridal party includes folks in suits, you can gift them these knot cufflinks to match the earrings.

Knot Bracelets

Speaking of knots, this bracelet features a knot and a letter charm if you want to make your gifts more personal. You can change the letters to match each of their initials and choose between three different finishes.

We hope you enjoyed these budget-friendly Amazon bridesmaid gifts. If you want more bridesmaid gift ideas that aren’t from Amazon, check out these photogenic bridesmaid gifts. Then, check out these bridesmaid robes that are perfect for getting ready together on your big day! Looking for the perfect groomsmen gift? Suit up in style with this groomsmen gift idea.

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gift ideas, thank you gifts

7 Easy Wedding Hairstyles And Accessories

August 3, 2021 | kailey

Image by Through the Glass Paris. See more of this inspiration shoot here.

Every bride deserves to feel their best—from head to toe—on their wedding day. That’s why every detail from your hairstyle to wedding attire is an important decision. Whether you’re wanting to wear your hair down or rock an updo, there are plenty of simple, sleek, and easy wedding hairstyles to choose from.

We’ve compiled our favorite easy wedding hairstyles—and accessories—that prove you don’t need an elaborate, over-the-top hairdo to look and feel amazing on your big day. And remember, even though these are considered easy wedding hairstyles, pampering yourself by hiring a team of professional hairstylists is a great idea.

Easy Wedding Hairstyles

1. Keep It Natural

We can’t think of a better way to authentically celebrate you, than by rocking your natural hair on the big day. Curly, wavy, or straight—we love to see it all. This is perfect for low-key weddings and laid-back couples.

Image by Valerie Thompson Photography. See more of this real wedding here.

2. Classic Side-Swept Style

Simple and classy—two of our favorite things. The side-swept style is sure to add a classy touch to any hair texture. It’s the perfect style for those wanting to add a personal or meaningful touch with a hairpin, comb, or maybe even something borrowed from a loved one.

Image by Donna Irene Weddings. See more of this real wedding here.

3. Half-Up and Half-Down

If you can’t decide between wearing your hair up or down, the half-up wedding hairstyle is the perfect middle ground. It’s the best of both worlds and will never go out of style. This hairdo is easy to do and flattering for both short and long hair.

Image by Meghan Hemstra. See more of this real wedding here.

4. Slick Ponytail

Those looking for a low-maintenance hairstyle that’s both functional and elegant should try a sleek ponytail. This fierce look is perfect for every wedding style, from laid-back to modern. It’s also a great way to show off your show-stopping wedding attire, especially if you’re opting for chic bridal jumpsuits.

Image by We Are The Bowsers. See more of this real wedding here.

5. Top-Knot

From slicked back to loose and messy, there are many ways to switch up the top-knot that’ll complement every wedding style. Whether you’re exchanging “I do’s” in an adventurous elopement or an elegant, over-the-top celebration, a top-knot is perfect for you. To make this romantic hairstyle your own, try adding a personalized hair accessory.

Image by Igor Demba. See more of this real wedding here.

6. Loose Low Bun

If you’re wanting your wedding attire to be the star, stick to a subtle and laid-back hairstyle like a loose low bun. There are many variations that can make this hairdo perfect for every wedding style. If you’re dreaming of completing your look with a veil—or other hair accessories—you can’t go wrong with a polished or messy low bun.

Image by Gabriel Conover. See more of this real wedding here.

7. Crown Braid

A crown braid was made for nontraditional brides looking for an easy hairstyle with a twist. This hairstyle is simple, stays in place, and is a stunning alternative to an elaborate updo. It’s also a sure way to keep your hair out of your face—the perfect hairstyle if you’ll be hitting the dance floor.

Image by Ama by Aisha. See more of this real wedding here.

Accessories To Dress Up Each Easy Wedding Hairstyles

You’ve selected the easy wedding hairstyle you want to rock on your big day. Now it’s time to tie your bridal look together by accessorizing it. When it comes to bridal hair accessories, there are so many options to choose from. Some of our favorites being hairpins, veils, and bridal crowns.

Traditional Wedding Veil

Wedding veils are a timeless bridal accessory. With a variety of different lengths and styles, adding a veil can completely transform your wedding look. A Ballerina style lands anywhere from the knee to ankle. A cathedral veil is long, dramatic, and typically grazes the floor. The blusher is a popular tulle veil that’s short in length and conceals the face when walking down the aisle. No matter which length or style you choose, you can’t go wrong with this traditional wedding hair accessory.

Image by Tahnee Jade Photography. See more of this real wedding here.

40s Inspired Birdcage Veil

If you’re looking for subtle ways to infuse retro details into your wedding, a birdcage veil is perfect for you. It’s a short mesh or netting hairpiece that covers part of the face. This 40s inspired hair accessory is a unique way to jazz up any wedding look.

Image by Corey Lynn Tucker Photography. See more of this real wedding here.

Incorporate Florals

There are many ways to dress up an ordinary hairstyle with flowers. Odds are if you’ve scrolled through Pinterest you’ve seen varieties of infamous flower crowns, but this isn’t your only option. For a cohesive wedding feel, try incorporating subtle floral accents that match your bouquet. If you’re ready to move forward with this option, be sure to talk to your florist ahead of time. They’ll be able to provide flowers similar to those used in your floral arrangements.

Image by Cody & Allison Photography. See more of this real wedding here.

Bridal Crown

Considering bridal crowns as part of your look? We get it. Rocking this hair accessory is a great way to incorporate your unique style while feeling like royalty on your wedding day. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece or a subtle touch, there’s a bridal crown fit for you.

Headband

Headbands are a simple fashion detail that allows every bride to fully customize their wedding look. Wedding headbands can be used to add elegance, casual touches, or a simple pop of color. It’s the perfect hair accessory for those dreaming of a modern, polished wedding vibe.

Image by Scarlet Roots. See more of this real wedding here.

Simple Hair Pins

From dainty pearls to hand-wired flowers, there are endless options from size to style that make this go-to wedding hair accessory the perfect choice for many brides. Sometimes less is more when it comes to completing your wedding look. Subtle bridal hair pins can still make a powerful statement.

From epic wedding fashion to easy wedding hairstyles, every detail should make you feel beautiful on your big day. Now that you’ve selected the perfect hairstyle, check out this pre-wedding beauty timeline that will put your mind at ease and ensure you feel your best.