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Iconic & Disco Ball-Filled Las Vegas Chapel Wedding

March 4, 2023 | justine

With a maximalist dress code, a showgirl officiant, a dive bar reception venue, and disco balls galore–Kami and Nick’s Las Vegas chapel wedding is giving us all the iconic Sin City wedding vibes! The pair set out to throw the best party ever with their closest loved ones, and they accomplished exactly that, and then some. 

For a true “Vegas experience,” the couple tied the knot at the Sure Thing Chapel with a lit heart-shaped backdrop framing the moment they said their “I dos.” After the ceremony, their small group made their way to Atomic Liquors where they munched on tacos, danced to jukebox music, and hit the open bar all night long.

Their big day reflected their fun-loving and stylish nature, and thankfully, Junebug member Madeline Barr was there to capture everything. And with the bride being a photographer (and Junebug member) herself, you can absolutely expect epic photo moments! So follow the call of disco balls and keep scrolling to see all the details of this unconventional love affair.

The Couple:

Kami and Nick

The Wedding:

Sure Thing Chapel, Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

The Inspiration Behind Their Las Vegas Chapel Wedding

In a lot of ways, our vibe, style, and design came together by accident. We didn’t really set out to achieve a certain aesthetic, we just started making decisions that were purely us and that made us excited. We considered eloping but then realized we didn’t want to exclude our favorite people. So we thought of what our dream elopement day would look like and then just invited people to join us. Then my florist and one of my good friends just said, “Let me make you a very Vegas bouquet and I promise it won’t be tacky.” I trusted him fully and saw nothing about it until the day of. There were so many things like that where we didn’t plan anything on purpose. We just made decisions that felt like us, and it all ended up coming together so cohesively, which honestly surprised us. We just wanted to have a good time.

Why A Disco Ball-Filled Las Vegas Chapel Wedding

I’m a wedding photographer myself, and at a lot of the weddings I was shooting early in the year, I was seeing a lot of disco balls. That got me excited, I even bought a whole bunch of disco balls from one of my brides in the spring before we were even engaged. In our heads, we were just picturing a penthouse hotel party with disco balls everywhere. We drove the disco balls all the way from San Diego so we could have them in our room for photos.

How They Landed On Their Chapel Venue

We were looking for an iconic Las Vegas Chapel wedding, and when I came across Sure Thing Chapel, I was obsessed. It was so cute, photogenic, and the true “Vegas experience” for our guests. As a female wedding photographer, I love that it is a female-run chapel, and one of the owners is a photographer herself, so of course, it is set up for maximum-photo potential. And it ended up being a walking distance from our reception venue, which was the iconic downtown dive bar, Atomic Liquors. Having the dive bar reception was everything we dreamt of and more. It was casual, we could play our own music, we had an open bar, they kept the tacos coming all night, and everyone just let loose in the best way. It couldn’t have been more us.

Carving Out Intentional Private Time To Take It All In

We got ready together and read our vows for the first time together privately before we shared them with everyone. Not being stimulated or overwhelmed, while we were hearing them for the first time, really let us stay present and let them sink in. We were so much more emotional when it was just us, and it was the best decision. We also had our friend and co-officiant Alyssa read to us what she prepared for our ceremony in private before we got dressed. It was an extremely special and personal ceremony script, and hearing it for the first time just us was the perfect way for us to be present and absorb it all to start the day. Those are the moments we remember most vividly because the rest of the day was such a blur!

Creating A Ceremony That Reflected Their Love Story And A Show Girl Surprise 

Personalizing our ceremony was important to us. We wanted the ceremony to be a peek into our relationship for our family and friends. Our friend Alyssa co-officiated with Surely the Showgirl, so she was able to read a really special opening speech based on questions she had asked us a few months before. It was so beautiful and meaningful. Then we read our own vows we had written before Surely the Showgirl stepped in to finish the ceremony. I tried my absolute hardest to keep that surprise as long as I could. It was so entertaining for our guests and felt so us. We could tell how much fun everyone was having and that meant the world to us. And how epic to say a showgirl married us.

Having A Fun Wedding Experience Was A Top Priority

For us, our top priorities were that people had fun and looked good while doing it. We kept it simple and only did what we truly wanted and ditched what we didn’t. We are so proud of how much fun people had. We set out to throw the best party anyone has ever been to, and we feel like we absolutely accomplished that. It also ended up being the best-dressed event anyone had ever been to. A couple of months before the wedding, our florist and friend Arturo said we should call the dress code “Vegas maximalism”. And our friends and family just ran with it. 

Setting A Fun Wedding Dress Code

Our dress code was Vegas maximalism. We let guests interpret that however they wanted, and it was so fun seeing everyone’s wedding looks come together. We didn’t have a color palette or dress code, we were both in white, so we let everyone wear whatever they wanted, and it was so amazing. There were sequins and fringe and jumpsuits and pantsuits and crazy colors and everything in between. We loved seeing how people showed up and took the dress code to the next level. A few of our guests were even approached by fashion influencers for interviews in the lobby while waiting to go to the wedding, it was pretty epic! 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Madeline Barr
Ceremony Venue – Sure Thing Chapel
Reception Venue – Atomic Liquors
Floral Design – AHR Florals
Makeup Artist – Elizabeth Root
Hair Styling – Carly Henschel
Wedding Dress – Varca Bridal
Groom’s Apparel – Indochino
Rings – Marrow Fine

 

Congratulations to Kami and Nic on their iconic and disco ball-filled Las Vegas chapel wedding. And a special thank you to Junebug member Madeline Barr for capturing all the unforgettable moments. To see more unconventional celebrations, be sure to check out her profile in our directory of the world’s best photographers.

This couple’s main piece of advice is to set goals before you get carried away with all the wedding planning possibilities. It’ll allow you to focus on what’s truly important. And if one of your goals is to create the most authentic experience for you and your guests, but you’re not sure where to start? Begin by building your dream team, and then check our guide for ideas to make your celebration unique and unforgettable.

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15 Sweet and Sentimental Unity Ceremony Ideas

March 3, 2023 | riley

A unity ceremony is a tradition that can be one of the most beautiful parts of the overall ceremony because it’s a visual symbol of two lives coming together as one. Over the years, it’s also become one of the best ways for a couple to personalize their wedding. From lighting a taper candle to creating a cocktail, couples are finding sweet and sentimental ways to make the unity ceremony their own–and we absolutely love it.

They also provide one of the few moments on your wedding day that you get to slow down, pause, and reflect on the promises you’ve made to each other, so be sure it is meaningful to you. We’ve seen some truly creative unity ceremony ideas over the years, so here are our favorites to help you pick the one that speaks to you!

    1. 1. Make A Unity Ceremony Sandwich

This one is one of the cutest, most lighthearted unity ceremonies that we have ever seen. Choose your favorite sandwich, prepare both slices of bread, and bring the sandwich together as a sweet—and delicious—metaphor for your new marriage.

2. Light A Unity Candle

This is by far the most traditional unity ceremony option, so it’s perfect for couples who want something a bit more classic. Before the ceremony, three candles are placed on the altar: two taper candles and one large candle—the “unity candle”—in the middle. At the beginning of the ceremony, a member from each family–traditionally the mothers–lights one of the taper candles. After you exchange vows, each spouse uses one of the candles to light the unity candle at the same time.

If either or both of you have children, you can even get the entire family involved. Just add extra taper candles for each child and invite them to join you as you light the unity candle.

Shop unity candles: Wedding Unity Ivory Candle Set ($33.01); Champagne unity candle set ($45); Gold Unity Candles for Wedding ($39)

3. Plant A Tree Together

Many couples are drawn to the symbolism found in nature, which makes a tree-planting ceremony such a great option, especially for outdoor weddings. Before the ceremony, a tree is placed in a large pot near the front of the space. During the ceremony,  you each take turns adding soil and water to the pot. Then, when the wedding is over, you can take the tree home and plant it in your yard.

We’ve even seen couples who get married in their own backyard plant the tree directly in the ground during the ceremony. This is a truly touching unity ceremony idea that will be a constant and ever-growing reminder of your commitment to each other. Don’t have the space for a tree? Consider a plant instead!

Image by Tricia Victoria

4. Warm The Ring

We reached out to some of our Junebug vendors and asked them about their favorite unity ceremonies, and this is what Annie of Aislinn Events had to say about the ring-warming ceremony:

“In this unity ceremony, the couple’s wedding rings are placed either in a lovely box or sometimes tied together. The officiant gives them to the first person and asks them to take a moment, hold the rings in their hands– warming the rings up–and put their happy thoughts, well wishes, or prayers for the couple silently into the rings. They then pass them on to the next guest, and the rings make their way around to all guests before coming back to the officiant, where the couple will then place the rings on each other’s finger.

This works really well with intimate or micro weddings but can be done at larger weddings as well. It brings extra loving, positive energy to the ceremony and is a wonderful way to include all of your guests in that special moment of your special day.”

    1. Image by Quinn Oberlander.

    2. 5. Seal An Anniversary Box

This super sweet unity ceremony idea also serves as an anniversary surprise. Have a custom box made with your names and your wedding date, and place it on a table along with handwritten love letters and a bottle of wine. If you plan to wait for your five or ten-year anniversary, ask an expert to help you pick a wine that will age nicely.

During the unity ceremony, you will both place the love letters and the bottle of wine in the box and seal it shut–either with a hammer and nails or a lock. During the ceremony, you can have the officiant explain the significance of the wine you chose and the anniversary you plan to open it. When that date rolls around, enjoy a trip down memory lane as you enjoy a glass of wine, read your love letters, and remember your magical wedding day.

Shop anniversary boxes: Custom Engraved Wine Box ($75); Lavender Floral Wreath Wine Box ($75); Personalized Wedding Wine Box ($50); Personalized Wooden Wine Box ($47)

    1. Image by Tayler Ashley

    2. 6. Pour Sand For Your Unity Ceremony

This is another oldie-but-goodie that continues to evolve as couples find modern ways to make it their own. The most common sand-pouring ceremony involves two jars of sand that you both pour into a single glass. If you want to create a statement art piece for your home, you can use two different colors and layer them or create a unique design inside the jar. We’ve also seen clear frames in which you place a photo of yourselves and pour the sand into the background space.

If you have children, you can also use multiple jars of sand, labeled with each person’s name, to pour into the collective jar. You can then display the jar in your home as a reminder of your new, unified family.

Image by The Tinsley Co.

    1. 7. Create A Cocktail

This might be our current favorite unity ceremony idea because it combines the sentimentality of tradition with a fun, modern twist. If you are beer lovers, pour two different but complementary beers–usually a light and a dark–into a glass and enjoy your first brew as husband and wife. If liquor is your thing, gather up single servings of your favorite ingredients, shake them up, and enjoy your custom creation. We recommend choosing a simple cocktail, such as a single mixer and liquor, so that you can pour it together effortlessly.

    1. Image by Paige Nelson

    2. 8. Take A Shot

If you’re super adventurous or want an excuse to calm the nerves in the middle of your ceremony, you could skip the creating aspect and go straight for taking a shot of your favorite alcohol. We recommend investing in a beautiful personalized decanter and glasses. Not only will they be cute decor pieces at the ceremony and in your photos, but they will make great keepsakes for years to come.

    1. Image by Love Hunters.

    2. 9. Barrel A Whiskey

If you love the idea of incorporating your favorite alcohol into your unity ceremony but are looking for a more crafty way to do it, barreling a whiskey is a fun and unique idea. You get the best of both worlds–the symbolic gesture of combining two elements into one and the promise of an aged whiskey for future enjoyment.

All you need are two unaged whiskeys, a personalized mini barrel, and a funnel. During the ceremony, pour both of the whiskeys into the barrel and seal it shut. After a few months, you’ll be able to enjoy your custom creation as you look back on your special day.

    2. 10. Handfasting By Fastening Hands Together

This tradition hails from Ireland and Scotland but has become popular with modern couples all over the world. Unlike all the other unity ceremonies that happen after you exchange vows, this ceremony–commonly known as “handfasting”–can be done before, during, or after the vows.

As you join hands or hold each other’s wrists, the officiant wraps the cord around them into a loose knot. Traditionally, couples use a dyed chord for this ceremony, but the options have expanded in recent years to include tartans, ribbons, scarves, or even small floral garlands. Whatever you choose, this is a beautiful symbol of eternal and infinite love.

Image by Jonnie + Garrett Wedding Photographers. See more of this real wedding here.

11. Tie A Unity Knot

If you’re looking for a unity ceremony idea with a religious message, look no further than the cord of three strands tradition. The ceremony is derived from Ecclesiastes 4:12, “Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”

Although this ceremony typically symbolizes the joining of man, woman, and God as equal partners, it’s not limited to religious couples. Consider the third cord as representative of who supports you the most, whether it be your family, friends, or community at large.

During the ceremony, take turns braiding the rope and secure it with a knot. After the wedding, mount the rope on a canvas or wood plank to hang in your home as a constant reminder of commitment and strength.

Image by Anni Graham

12. Sip on Beer and Wine

Okay, we know what you’re probably thinking. Another ceremony involving alcohol? While sipping on beer and wine may not sound like much of a unity ceremony, what’s better than sipping on something that only gets better with time? Much like your love. Plus, why wait to celebrate at your reception? There’s no greater time to celebrate than your ceremony while all of your close friends and family watch.

    2. 13. Brew Tea Or Coffee

If you prefer to skip the alcohol, consider sipping on tea or coffee. Both beverages can make for a sweet and sentimental unity ceremony. You and your partner can brew your favorite blend and exchange steamy sips before a steamy kiss.

    1. 14. Incorporate A Spiritual Moment

For those who would like to add a spiritual element to their ceremony, taking communion, forming a prayer circle, or singing a song of your faith are all moving ways to incorporate your spirituality into your ceremony. The unity aspect here is to include your family and friends in order to symbolize the joining of your communities in your marriage.

Another great option is to include a spiritual aspect from your heritage or the destination in which you are tying the knot. For example, include a Shamanic ceremony if in Mexico. Or, if you’re hosting a Middle Eastern affair, consider a traditional Sofreh Aghd.

  1. 15. Wash Each Other’s Feet

While this ceremony has Christian roots, washing the feet of another is a symbol of love and humanity–we find that purpose is one that is truly universal. It serves as an act of caregiving to symbolize your devotion to each other.

Now that you’ve picked your unity ceremony idea, have you considered all the other ways you can personalize your ceremony? If not, we’ve got a list of ways to personalize your wedding ceremony that will help remove the guesswork!

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This Floral Filled Christianson’s Nursery Wedding Is Complete With Three Outfit Changes

February 28, 2023 | justine

A wedding day is one of the most memorable days in a couple’s life, and it’s only natural to want everything to be perfect. For Jaylynn and Jarrett, their Christianson’s Nursery wedding was everything they envisioned and more, thanks to their outstanding team of vendors. The couple’s attention to detail-with their three outfit changes and floral-filled aesthetic–made their big day a beautiful display of love, commitment, and style.

The pair took advantage of their venue’s natural beauty, with its beautiful gardens, nursery, and scenic landscape views. For their charming cottage ceremony, lush floral pillars framed the porch steps and the couple’s vow exchange. After tying the knot, they took it one step further by having their reception at the property’s greenhouse amongst vibrant blooms and greenery. The unique setting, natural environment, and gorgeous tablescape elevated the romantic atmosphere. 

Every detail of their big day was beautifully thought out and is a must-see! Step into spring with this Christianson’s Nursery wedding and find yourself daydreaming about your own flower-filled affair by scrolling through all the swoon-worthy images expertly captured by Junebug member TMInspired Photography. This is one enchanting celebration you don’t want to miss.

The Couple:

Jaylynn and Jarrett

The Wedding:

Christianson’s Nursery, Washington, United States

Why They Chose To Tie The Knot At Christianson’s Nursery

We chose Christianson’s Nursery for a few reasons. It was recommended to us by our planner, and it fits the vibe perfectly of what we wanted for the wedding. We knew we wanted to have dinner in a greenhouse surrounded by plants, so that was an immediate tick in the box. From the first point of contact, Emma at Christianson’s Nursery was absolutely amazing to work with, so it was a no-brainer.

The Inspiration Behind Their Christianson’s Nursery Wedding

The overall look and vibes we hoped to achieve for our wedding were simple, natural, and floral. I knew I wanted a floral wedding that wasn’t overdone but simple enough to accentuate more minor details placed intentionally. Our color palette was pink, white, and green. This vision came together by carefully choosing a venue that could add and enhance our vision and relying on our incredible wedding planner and vendors to use their expertise to perfect the setting.

Advice From The Newlyweds: Hire A Planner And Give Your Full Trust To Your Wedding Team

Our number one wedding planning advice is to get a wedding planner, if possible and within your budget. It should be a planner who is well experienced and has a portfolio of weddings that align with your vision. Then, relinquish some control to that planner and your vendors to make room for their suggestions on what they think is best for certain decisions. Many things at our wedding turned out better than we expected because we trusted our wedding team based on their expertise and knowledge. 

A Memorable And Relaxed First Dance

The most memorable part of the day was our first dance in the greenhouse after our dinner reception. Having a small wedding, we were so relaxed after just enjoying dinner with our closest family. Our first dance was a moment where we were completely comfortable and just having fun. We laughed and talked while dancing, both in awe about how perfect everything had gone during the ceremony.

Defining Their Wedding Vision And Sticking To It

The most important thing to us during the planning process was to stay true to our original vision and not be swayed by others or influences on social media. I knew that if I tried to incorporate every wedding “tradition” or “trend” that I saw online into our wedding day,  I would instantly become overwhelmed and panicked the day of. We wanted to identify the things most important to us and then stick to that list.

 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – TMInspired Photography
Event Planning – Emerald Engagements
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Christianson’s Nursery
Floral Design – LoveLeigh Blooms
Catering – Off the Vine Catering
Officiant – Another One Ties the Knot
Live Music – Quinn Fitzpatrick
Live Painter – Art by Elina
Videography – Ochoa Wedding Films
White Dress – Kitty Chin Couture
Green Dress – Tueta Matoshi
Groom’s Apparel – Men’s Wearhouse
Rings – Arnold’s Jewelry

 

Congratulations to Jaylynn and Jarrett on their Christianson’s Nursery wedding. And a special thank you to Junebug member TMInspired Photography for capturing this inspo-filled dreamy celebration with us. To see more of their work, check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

Matching the florals and decor to your venue is an essential part of wedding planning. Taking inspiration from the surroundings, considering the color palette, keeping the style consistent, working with the venue’s architectural features, and considering the layout can all help to create a cohesive and visually stunning aesthetic. Attention to these details can transform your big day into a beautiful and unforgettable experience.

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Ethereal Weekend-Long Lake Louise Wedding

February 25, 2023 | justine

Samantha and Jacob’s ethereal Lake Louise wedding was a sight to behold. Their goal was to have an adventurous elopement without having to sacrifice tradition, and they absolutely nailed it. The pair chose a stunning location in the Canadian Rockies to set the stage for their weekend-long affair and not only that, their timeless aesthetic, airy florals, and all-white color palette elevated the romantic vibe. Talk about a magical celebration of love!

With the majestic mountains, a sparkling lake, and alpine trees as a backdrop, the two exchanged beautiful heartfelt vows under a fabric-draped chuppah. After the ceremony, the couple explored the surrounding areas and went on a canoe ride for some breathtaking portraits in nature. Though the scenic views were hard to top, the true highlight was their reception at the Victoria ballroom. The space featured large windows that perfectly framed the surrounding landscape. Here guests were treated to a fondue dinner and wine on elegant candle-filled tablescapes.    

With captivating scenery, delicious food, and a whole lot of love, their big day is a reminder of what truly matters, your love. And thankfully, Henry Tieu was there to capture all the luxurious details and unforgettable moments that are sure to blow you away. 

The Couple:

Samantha and Jake

The Wedding:

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Lake Louise, Canada

How They Landed On A Weekend-Long Wedding Lake Louise Wedding

When we began wedding planning, we were looking for a fundamentally different type of event that struck a balance between a “traditional” wedding and adventure elopement. We wanted to host our family and friends for a weekend of incredible food and fun in a rugged and adventurous setting that felt luxurious and comfortable for guests with various comfort levels with being outdoors. And we smashed it with the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Our guests could walk, hike, canoe, or simply sit on the gorgeous terrace and enjoy the views. In terms of design, our wedding day vibe was ethereal, romantic, and contemporary. We leaned into ethereal fabrics and textures. We’re incredibly fortunate that instead of having a dream wedding day, we had an epic wedding week adventure with 80 of our closest family and friends.

Giving Their Guests Practical Welcome Bags

We intentionally gave welcome bags for all our guests instead of wedding favors. I’m a strong advocate for functionality, and the welcome bags would be a delightful surprise for our guests as they checked into their hotel rooms. We included a combination of functional items for the weather and our planned activities, post-celebration survival essentials, some of our favorite treats, and an ode to our wedding destination, maple cream cookies.

Kicking Off Their Wedding Weekend With A Bachelorette Party And Rehearsal Dinner

I have moved around quite a bit, so naturally, my bridesmaids lived across the country. We decided to host my bachelorette party in Kananaskis a few days before the rest of our guests arrived. This maximized our time in beautiful Alberta and meant that my gals didn’t have to make two separate PTO requests and needed only one flight instead of two. We relaxed at the Nordic hydrotherapy spa, had a pizza party and pajama party, and then went to Lake Louise to hike the iconic Lake Agnes Tea House hike. The party concluded, and we celebrated the official start of our wedding weekend with an unbelievable rehearsal dinner with our wedding party. We worked with the fantastic Post Hotel Lake Louise team to plan a four-course dinner with sommelier-selected wine and creative non-alcoholic pairings.

Making Their Day More Meaningful With Personal Touches

We had several meaningful, memorable parts on our special day. Jacob and I wrote private letters to each other that we read while getting ready. We also wrote personal vows for one another that we read to each other during our ceremony, and we’re going to cherish these forever. We agreed that one of our favorite parts of the day was Yichud. It’s customary for the newly married couple to share some time in privacy to reflect on the wedding ceremony and rejoice in their new life. During yichud, we fed each other cocktail hour hors d’oeuvres and got to try our signature cocktails. After yichud, we celebrate.

Taking Their Guests To Their Fave Spot And Treating Them To A Farewell Brunch

On Saturday, we hosted our guests for an afternoon at Moraine Lake. We fell in love with Moraine Lake the first time we visited, so it was great to experience one of the most beautiful places in the world (in my humble opinion) with our favorite people. We also had one of our favorite local places—Trailhead Cafe—cater wraps and sweets, which made the afternoon even better! The day after the wedding, we hosted a farewell brunch in honor of Jacob’s favorite meal. Then following our brunch, we hit the road for more intimate adventuring. We spent the next two days with our planner, videographer, and photographer, hiking, canoeing, and experiencing even more epic views.

Wedding Planning Advice: Start With Your Guest List

If you’re not sure where to start, start with building your guest list. Having an early understanding of the number of people you couldn’t imagine getting married without is helpful for budgeting and finding a venue. From there, focus on the things and people who are meaningful to you. Our guiding philosophy: “People will never forget how you made them feel.” So we wanted our guests to feel loved and included.

Planning A Wedding That Showcased Their Love Story

We planned a wedding celebration and adventure that captured the essence of “us.” We feel fortunate that we got to say “I do” and share this once-in-a-lifetime trip with our closest family and friends in one of the most beautiful places on the planet. After the wedding, we had multiple people thank us for motivating them to take a trip outside their comfort zone. This was meaningful, considering all our guests went out of their way to travel to Lake Louise to be with us. Not a small ask, but they did it with love!

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Henry Tieu photography
Event Planning – Rain and Pines
Ceremony +Reception Venue – Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Floral Design – Goldenrod Floral
Activities Day Catering – Trailhead Cafe
Officiant – Rabbi Ed Feinstein
Live Music – Supersonic Hearts Band
Videography – Integra Wedding Films
Invitation Design – Robinson Creative House
Makeup Artist – Shalonda Peguero 
Bridesmaid Makeup Artist – Bloom Bridal & Beauty Co.
Hair Styling – En Vogue Banff
Wedding Dress – Lovella Bridal
Groom’s Apparel – Indochino
Groomsmen Grooming – Beatnik Salon
Rehearsal Dinner – Post Hotel Lake Louise
Rentals – Modern Rentals
Transportation – Universal Coach Lines

 

Congratulations to Samantha and Jacob on their ethereal weekend-long Lake Louise wedding. And a big thank you to Henry Tieu for capturing all the beauty, love, and joy of the most unforgettable day of their lives.

Remember: the goal during your wedding planning season is to create a wedding that feels authentic to you. By infusing unique elements of your relationship into every aspect of your celebration, you’ll create a truly memorable experience for yourselves and your guests. To help you get started, check out our guide for insights on designing a wedding that captures the essence of your love story. 

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This Couple Explored The City In Their Intimate Rome Elopement

February 22, 2023 | justine

A special connection to the city and their shared love for travel and adventure led Thi and Kevin to choose a Rome elopement. From the monumental architecture and the cobblestone streets to the iconic piazzas and fountains, it doesn’t come as a surprise that they chose the Eternal City as the backdrop for their happily ever after. 

The two started the day soaking in the city’s rich culture and history and exchanged private vows in the middle of it all. After tying the knot, they embarked on a romantic stroll through the winding streets of Rome and took in all the sights and sounds. They visited the famous Colosseum and the Trevi fountain and stopped for coffee and gelato along the way.

This couple certainly chose one of the most beautiful spots in the world to toast to their love and start their new life together! And thankfully, Lilly Wilson Photography captured every heartfelt moment and captivating detail of this unforgettable celebration for two. So get your hearts ready. We guarantee you will fall in love with these photos.

The Couple:

Thi and Kevin

The Wedding:

Rome, Italy

Why They Decided On A Rome Elopement

We chose to elope in Rome because Kevin is of Italian descent, and I studied Ancient Roman history for my undergraduate degree. One of the most important things for our elopement was to keep it simple, lighthearted, and intimate. We were able to blend together quiet, intimate moments (like our three-person ceremony) with fun moments (sight-seeing Rome’s hidden spots or getting cheered on by strangers throughout our day).

How They Personalized Their Ceremony

We personalized our ceremony by exchanging personal vows, which we wrote in our vow books. We also shared our story with our officiant, who was able to cater our ceremony to our history. 

Advice: Stick To Your Priorities And Find Vendors Who Align With Your Vision

Our advice is to figure out first what’s really important to you and your partner and stick to that and not let the priorities of others dictate your day too much. Also, find a photographer with whom you trust and share a common vision. This also applies when choosing a wedding planner if you can afford one.

 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Lilly Wilson Photography
Event Planning – Marigiulia Sella Weddings
Vow Books – Modern Album Designs
Floral Design – Motif Floral
Videography – Memento Story
Makeup Artist – Elisa Zamparelli
Wedding Dress – Lillian West
Groom’s Apparel – Indochino

 

Congratulations to Kevin and Thi on their breathtaking Rome elopement. And a big thank you to Lilly Wilson Photography for capturing all the beautiful moments the couple will cherish for the rest of their lives. 

From the incredible architecture and delectable cuisine to stunning coastlines and vineyards galore, it is no surprise that many couples look to tie the knot in Italy. Whether you are looking to elope just the two of you or have a grand celebration with your loved ones, check out our guide for everything you need to know about getting married in one of the most beautiful countries on Earth!

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Electric Flower Power Inspired Las Vegas Wedding

February 16, 2023 | kailey

Courtney and Steve’s electric Las Vegas wedding is the definition of cool. But they didn’t do it alone. From the beginning, they prioritized hiring top-tier vendors—like Junebug planner Ember & Stone Events—that believed in their wild and ethereal vision. And from start to finish, every detail reflected their desired, fun-loving theme. 

To kick off their celebration, they exchanged heartfelt vows at Desert Love Land. With breathtaking views of Nevada’s Red Rock Canyon, this cactus nursery channeled their nature-loving side. But, the real party started after the couple—and their vibrant Lively Bloom florals—were transported to their reception space, The Doyle. Welcomed by a surprise Elvis impersonator and a room full of disco balls, this celebration had all the ingredients needed for the ultimate Vegas bash. 

From the bride’s epic outfit change to the post-wedding stroll down the strip, Annie Morgan Photography captured every detail that’ll challenge couples to step outside the traditional wedding planning box. Get scrolling.

The Couple:

Courtney and Steve

The Wedding:

Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

Creating A Wild Las Vegas Wedding With An Intimate Feel 

The intimacy of the ceremony and reception felt like a true reflection of who we are as a couple. The mixing of elements and using non-traditional designs helped create something that felt truly unique. We wanted the day to feel wild and ethereal but with a laid-back vibe. We chose to have a simple ceremony with the desert as our backdrop because feeling connected to the Earth was most important for us throughout the day.

Prioritize Finding A Vendor Like Ember & Stone Events

Our biggest piece of advice is to do the research, especially when it comes to finding a wedding planner. Find someone that’s going to take the time to get to know you as a couple. Someone you can trust every step of the way. Our planner, Ember & Stone Events, made our wedding day seamless without feeling controlled or super scheduled. The amount of hard work, attention to detail, and pure heart they put into our day was unmatched. Niki and Sam were always available, always patient, always listened, and truly were born to do this. Sharing this experience with them is something we will hold close in our hearts forever.

Adding Personality To Their Ceremony Through Music And A Lack Of Wedding Party

There were many ways we added personality to our ceremony. For starters, we decided to not have our wedding party at the altar with us. We wanted to create the illusion it was just the officiant and us. It allowed us to focus on each other and feel the intimacy. We were also very intentional about choosing songs that held meaning for us. Music is a big passion of ours and one of the ways we connect as a couple.

This Couple’s Experience Working With Their Photographer on Their Las Vegas Wedding

Annie Morgan Photography was our first wedding planning choice after solidifying the date. Finding the right photographer and videographer was extremely important for us. And working with Annie on the day was pure magic. She made us feel comfortable and completely ourselves. Shooting felt very natural, like working with a friend. Nothing was forced, and we genuinely had so much fun. We couldn’t recommend her more.

Seeing Their Las Vegas Wedding Vision Come To Life

One of the most memorable moments was walking into our reception space for the first time. After months of planning, finally seeing how the vision had come together was an unmatched moment. To see it all in real life was like a dream literally coming true.

A Surprise Appearance from Elvis Had Guests All Shook Up 

One surprise we had was an Elvis impersonator at the cocktail hour. He performed songs and took pictures with our guests. When it was time for the grand entrance, he introduced us as a couple, singing, “I can’t help falling in love with you.” It was a fun way to bring a true flare of Vegas energy into our ceremony.

Ace Wedding Favors 

We wanted wedding favors that reflected our wedding theme while also giving people a piece of Vegas to take home. That’s why we chose custom card decks with our initials, wedding date, and location on them.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Annie Morgan Photography
Event Planning – Ember & Stone Events
Ceremony Venue – Desert Love Land
Reception Venue – The Doyle
Floral Design – Lively Bloom Florals
Catering – 911 Tacos
Cake – Caked LV
DJ – Knight Sound
Videography – Venture and Style
Invitation Design – Zazzle
Makeup Artist – Set & Fury LV
Wedding Dress – Grace Loves Lace
Groom’s Apparel – 4 Men United 
Rings – Damiani Jewellers

 

Congratulations to Courtney and Steve on their electric Las Vegas wedding captured by Annie Morgan Photography. And big thanks to Junebug planner Ember & Stone Events for sending over this inspo-worthy celebration. To see more of their work, check out their profile in our directory of top wedding vendors from around the world.

After scrolling through these images, you might be feeling inspired to make authenticity your top wedding planning priority—we wouldn’t blame you. And if this is the case, start by hiring a talented team of vendors, then check out our guide for planning a truly unique wedding.

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Timeless And Low Key Central Park Elopement

February 12, 2023 | justine

For Jason and Dillon, a Central Park elopement was the perfect way to start their new life together. By choosing a simple and low-key celebration, they could focus on the most crucial aspect of their wedding: their love for one another.

Central Park, the iconic oasis in the heart of New York City, played host to the beautiful and meaningful elopement of the two dashing grooms. A hidden gem within the park, a rustic gazebo enveloped in lush ivy was the quaint and romantic setting for their vow exchange. After the big moment, the couple took a stroll through the park and took in the sights and sounds of the bustling city while their photographer followed them. 

The memories from this day will be cherished for a lifetime, and the couple will always look back on their elopement as a day filled with joy, love, and a deep sense of connection with each other. So scroll through and discover what happens when you get caught between the moon and New York City. We guarantee you’ll fall in love with these captivating images by Laura Dilliberto.

The Couple:

Jason and Dillon

The Wedding:

Central Park, New York City, New York

The Special Reason Why They Wanted A Central Park Elopement

Since we started dating, we’ve traveled to New York every year to see the Macy’s Day parade. We thought there was no better place to tie the knot than the city we both love and made so many memories in. NYC truly is a magical place. We are proud of forgoing the pressure of family to have a traditional wedding ceremony and choosing to elope instead. This way, we could spend the entire day to ourselves and celebrate our love the way we wanted.

Their Central Park Elopement Fashion Was A True Reflection Of Their Style

We wanted our elopement to be simple and low-key. We wanted to incorporate some traditions, so we both wore classic tuxedos but added a little sparkle by wearing stunning loafers covered in glitter and a jaguar head with crystal-embedded eyes. I work in the funeral industry, so I wanted to incorporate something into my tuxedo that represents a huge part of my life. I had the buttons and cufflinks of my dress shirt replaced with Swarovski crystal skulls.

Hiring An Elopement Planner Was Totally Worth It

The main reason we chose to hire a wedding planner for our elopement was how effortless it would be for us. They took care of setting everything up, allowing us to travel across the country to make this day a reality.

Eloping Allowed Them To Splurge On A Great Photographer

We are both recent graduates, so the budget was a huge factor. We knew we’d save money by eloping, so we spent a little extra on our photographer. The most memorable part of our special day was walking all over the city with our photographer and having total strangers stop us to congratulate us and tell us how great we both looked!

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Laura Diliberto
Event Planning – Simply Eloped
Venue – Summerhouse at the Dene
Officiant – Sarah Ritchie
Grooms’ Apparel – Bonobos + Mens Wearhouse
Grooms’ Accessories – Aldo + Michael Kors
Rings – Tiffany Co.

 

Congratulations to Jason and Dillon on their timeless and low-key Central Park elopement. And many thanks to Laura Diliberto for capturing this special day they will forever hold in their hearts.

If you choose to elope, you don’t have to worry about meeting other people’s expectations or following traditional wedding rules. You can also avoid the stress and costs that come with big weddings. Instead, you can create a day that fits your needs and wants, just like this couple. And to top it all off, you can focus on what really matters: your love and commitment to each other.

 

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Romantic and Timeless French Riviera Wedding

February 10, 2023 | Junebug Weddings

After getting engaged in the south of France, Lauren and Callum knew that a romantic and timeless French Riviera wedding was calling their name. And with the help of their talented team of vendors, they nailed every detail. We’re talking about their chic venue on the water, stunning florals, and mirrored aisle—the couple truly went above and beyond to treat their guests to an elegant celebration they would always cherish. 

The pair started the day with a romantic sunrise drive. They traveled down the coast, from Cannes to their chateau venue. And they exchanged “I do’s” beneath a lush floral arch of blush blooms and baby’s breath. The bride wore a stunning sheer long-sleeve gown while the groom rocked a monochromatic, tan suit. Following the ceremony, guests sat at long winding tables decorated with floating blooms and classic gold and white details. To top it all off, the venue was flooded with colorful lights, getting the party started and ready for the bride’s epic outfit change. 

After postponing due to the pandemic, the two finally celebrated the wedding of their dreams. If you dream of planning an unforgettable destination wedding, take a scroll through these gorgeous moments captured by Lina Dambrauskas. 

The Couple:

Lauren and Callum

The Wedding:

Mandelieu-la-Napoule, France

Recommended Reading: Unique Groom Style Ideas for Well-Dressed Guys

Creating Unforgettable Memories at their French Riviera Wedding  

Driving from Cannes to Chateau de La Napoule with my parents in the wedding car is a memory I will always cherish. Spending quality time on the most beautiful day of my life. Walking through the castle doors to see the mirrored aisle, the stunning flowers, and Callum waiting for me in front of the arch, surrounded by our family and friends.

Recommended Reading: The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Wedding Ceremony

Recommended Reading: Creative Ceremony Backdrop Ideas

Advice from the Couple 

Hire a wedding planner! We hired Jane from Planned for Perfection, she’s the best! Whatever you think your budget is, basically double it to have everything you want. And lastly, wear your wedding shoes before the big day and bring a spare pair of comfortable shoes to dance in.

Shop Similar White And Gold Cutlery: 1. Matte Gold Flatware Set 2. JASHII Flatware Set 3. Flatware Cutlery Set

Why A French Riviera Wedding

We got engaged in the South of France so that was where we wanted to marry. We did so many venue viewings and when we walked into the chateau, we just fell in love with it.

Recommended Reading: Everything You Should Know About Your Wedding Cake

Recommended Reading: These Wedding Reception Songs are Guaranteed to Get Your Guests on the Dance Floor

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Lina Dambrauskas
Event Planning – Planned for Perfection
Venue – Chateau la Napoule
Floral Design – Paula Rooney
Catering + Cake – Pavillion Traiteur
Officiant – Grace the Day
DJ – Sounds North West
Live Music – The Beau Ties
Singers – House Acoustic with Claire Sophia
Videography – Mattias Guerin Films
Invitation Design – Lettering by GRG
Hair Styling – Dina Gray
Wedding Dress – Berta
Groom’s Apparel – Clements and Church
Gala Production – Gala
Transportation – Riviera Car Prestige

 

Congratulations to Lauren and Callum on their beautiful French Riviera wedding. And a big thank you to photographer Lina Dambrauskas for capturing every inspo-worthy detail, along with Planned for Perfection for sharing this stunning wedding with us! 

Pulling off a destination wedding like this takes an incredible team of wedding vendors. If you’re on the hunt for your dream vendors, take a peek at our highly-vetted vendor directory including talent from all over the world. 

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This Couple Brought Tulum To Their Boho Houston Wedding

February 7, 2023 | justine

Shay and Kevi have always loved Tulum’s natural beauty and laid-back vibe and wanted to infuse their wedding with the same carefree elegance. Featuring overflowing greenery, a neutral color palette with a touch of black, and lots of texture, the pair brought Tulum’s earthy and boho flair to their Houston wedding.

With its industrial features and arched garden patio, the Ronin Art House was the perfect setting for their modern celebration of love. Enveloped by sprawling greenery, twinkling fairy lights, and a geometric backdrop, the couple exchanged beautiful vows surrounded by their closest loved ones. For the reception that followed, centerpieces of blooms and pampas combined with earthy and vintage accents added to the bohemian vibe.  

By staying true to their vision, the pair created an unforgettable and stunning affair that reflected who they were as a couple. And lucky for us, photographer Light As Gold captured every heartfelt moment and beautiful detail, so keep scrolling, and be prepared to swoon!

The Couple:

Shay and Kevi

The Wedding:

Ronin Art House 2, Texas, United States

Bringing Moody Tulum Vibes Into Their Boho Houston Wedding

I remember going into wedding planning, and we described the feel of what we wanted as a “Tulum moody boho vibe.” We envisioned lots of black, white, tan, and greenery. As a couple, we love traveling, and Tulum has been a favorite. We loved the aesthetic of different textures (brick, wood, plants, pampas grass, etc.) and wanted an intimate candlelight experience.

How They Found Their Dream Wedding Venue

In a way, our wedding venue chose us. We had paused in planning because we needed help identifying what we wanted. But one day, I was scrolling through Instagram and came across Ronin Art House in downtown Houston. It was beautiful and small, and reasonably priced. I asked Kevi that day if she wanted to tour it, and we did and immediately fell in love. The brick walls, the twinkly lights in the outdoor space where the ceremony would be, and even the smell gave us all the feels. The fact that it would only allow 55 people was a bonus because it meant that we couldn’t be swayed to make it a bigger celebration than either of us wanted.

Remembering Their Heartfelt and Sentimental Vow Exchange

We both agree that the most memorable part of the day was delivering our vows. We were super nervous but also so locked in on each other’s words. It felt like the only time during our day that time slowed down. It was really beautiful. 

Focusing On What The Celebration Was Really About And Not Worrying About The Little Things

Start early, get a wedding planner you trust, and remember what this is really about. We wanted to feel connected, intimate, and close to our people and surrounded by love and people having a good time. As a black queer couple, there was a relative amount of angst about being so seen. There was a lot of vulnerability in having our love be so visible. We feel proud that anxiety didn’t allow us to compromise our vision. Even when it got hard, we said no to the things that didn’t align with us and yes to everything we wanted. And we were willing to honor whatever came from that decision.

Having An Intimate Wedding Allowed Them To Spend Quality Time With Each Other And Their Loved Ones

Ultimately, we decided not to have a wedding party. Our wedding was only 55 people, which we chose because we wanted everyone to feel special and included in the weekend we planned. In essence, everyone was a part of the wedding party, and we wanted everyone to kick back and enjoy themselves. So, we each chose two of our best friends to hang out with us during the day while we got dressed but then encouraged them to sit and enjoy the ceremony with their partners and the rest of our loved ones. It was the best decision! And it allowed us to focus on ourselves and each other as we led to the ceremony.

Giving Their Guests Scented Candles As Practical Keepsakes

We gave out customized candles as wedding favors and loved all the text messages following the wedding describing how good they smelled and photos of people lighting them. We wanted people to take a little piece of our wedding day vibe with them and give something they could use in their space. The scent was delicious. We love candles, so this was a no-brainer.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Light As Gold
Ceremony Venue – Ronin Art House 2
Catering – CJ’s Masterpiece
Cake – Who Made The Cake
Officiant – Michelle Brey
DJ – DJ Young Streetz
Makeup Artist – Kachelle
Hair Styling – Nyoka
Wedding Dress – Winnie Couture Houston + Fame and Partners
Rings – Maggi Simpkins + True Gem

 

Congratulations to Shay and Kevi on their beautiful Houston wedding with swoon-worthy bohemian vibes. And a special shout out to photographer Light As Gold for capturing all the emotions and beauty the couple will cherish for the rest of their lives. 

Just like this couple, incorporating personal touches and embracing your unique style can create an unforgettable event that truly represents you as a couple—a celebration that’s not only beautiful but also memorable for you and your loved ones. 

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Timeless Alaska Elopement Complete With A Helicopter Ride

February 3, 2023 | Junebug Weddings

Choosing to elope doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice family involvement. This Alaska elopement is proof. While Kimberly and Chris chose to host a party of two, they still found sweet and sentimental ways to include their loved ones back home. From the bride including pieces of her mother’s wedding gown into her veil to the groom sporting a picture of their dog on his pocket square, the pair made sure they would feel their family’s love from afar. 

The day started off with the couple’s first helicopter ride over the stunning mountain terrain. They then chose the perfect spot to exchange “I do’s” with the snow-capped mountains and crystal blue water backdrop. To honor their Filipino heritage, the couple incorporated a veil ceremony and their parent’s unity coins while exchanging vows. To end their adventurous day, the two retreated to a cozy night in their cabin where they shared bites of their delicious mini wedding cake. 

If you dream of saying “I do” in an exclusive location with breathtaking scenery, keep scrolling through these gorgeous photos by the talented Henry Tieu. This adventurous love story is sure to inspire you to plan your own romantic getaway. 

The Couple:

Kim and Chris

The Wedding:

Knik Glacier, Alaska

How Family Was Included In Their Elopement

We asked our family and friends to write us letters that we would read during our elopement. Reading those letters together had us smiling, laughing, and brought us so many happy tears. Even though our elopement was just us two, we really felt the love from afar and knew everyone was celebrating in spirit.

Honoring Their Heritage 

We wanted to honor some Filipino wedding traditions in our ceremony, and requested for our officiant to incorporate a veil ceremony to symbolize unity in our marriage. We also brought arras, or wedding unity coins, from both of our parents’ weddings. We exchanged our own personal vows — it was so nice to hear these sentiments that we don’t always say to each other on any other day. 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Henry Tieu Photography
Floral Design + Officiant – Rain and Pines
Cake – Arctic Moon Bakery
Wedding Dress – BHLDN
Groom’s Apparel – Suit Supply
Rentals – Outbound Heli Adventures

 

Congratulations  Kimberly and Chris on their unforgettable Alaska elopement. And a huge thanks to photographer Henry Tieu for beautifully capturing this sweet love adventure.  

After scrolling through these stunning images, you might just be convinced to plan an elopement of your own. We don’t blame you.  kickstart your wedding planning season by checking out our guide to planning a destination celebration you’ll never forget.  

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