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The Flowers Were the Star of This Lovrijenac Fortress Wedding

July 6, 2024 | justine

Emina and Jusuf chose a Lovrijenac Fortress wedding because the location held a special place in their hearts. During their first visit to Dubrovnik, after a year of dating, they joked about getting married there someday, enchanted by the city’s timeless beauty. That summer was one of the best of their lives, filled with unforgettable moments. And truly, what a breathtaking venue they picked! Their big day was a magical affair, with vibrant jewel-toned colors and show-stopping florals that perfectly contrasted the ancient limestone fortress, making their dream a fairytale come true.

Overlooking the Adriatic Sea, their cliffside ceremony was a vision of elegance with gold chairs and color-blocked aisle arrangements leading to a whimsical backdrop. The reception that followed was even more stunning. Tables were adorned with lush, colorful centerpieces, and a stunning floral wall graced the space behind the presidential serpentine table, all illuminated by crystal chandeliers hanging overhead.

If you love vibrant colors and textures for your special day, then this is perfect for you! Every detail, beautifully captured by Vlasta Weddings, is full of inspiration that you’ll want to pin to your mood board.

The Couple:

Emina and Jusuf

The Wedding:

Lovrijenac Fortress, Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Story Behind Their Lovrijenac Fortress Wedding

We chose the fortress years before, during our first visit to Dubrovnik together when we had been dating for a year. We jokingly said, “This is where we will get married,” because the city felt enchanted and frozen in time, and we had one of the best summers of our lives there. Once we got engaged, we both agreed that it had to happen there because of all the amazing memories we had. We wanted it to be a relaxed event, and in terms of design, I really wanted the bright flowers to contrast with the limestone of the fortress. I also wanted chandeliers to give it a magical and fairy-tale-like feel, since we were in a fortress.

Advice for Your Big Day: Embracing the Flow and Enjoying the Moment

The most important part of planning our wedding was to make it smooth and relaxed so everyone could have a great time, and we could have some time just for ourselves. One piece of advice for wedding planning is to go with the flow as the big day gets closer because there’s only so much you can control or change. It’s important to try to enjoy that time because you’ll likely feel nervous and excited. We didn’t want it to be stressful, so our advice is to say yes to things in the week before the wedding. The day will be amazing no matter the small details, as most of the planning is already done. One thing we loved doing was after the ceremony and taking photos with our family, we sat together, had some food, and talked. It was special to look at each other after saying “I do” and have a private moment before the celebrations began.

Unforgettable First Dance: A Song That Came Full Circle

The best part of the day was our first dance as husband and wife. We first heard the song years ago on the radio while driving home to see our parents, and we both said, “This will be our wedding song one day.” It turned out that the actual singer performed it at our wedding, which was a full-circle moment that I will always treasure.

Reflections on Their Fun and Laid-Back Wedding

We’re most proud of how fun and relaxed everything was. That was really important to us. We just wanted it to be a big, joyful party celebrating our love. On that day, we felt so happy and surrounded by love—it was like being in a little bubble with everyone we care about, having the absolute best time together.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Vlasta Weddings
Event Planning – Dubrovnik Luxury Weddings + Dubrovnik Luxe Planners
Ceremony Venue – Lovrijenac Fortress
Floral Design – Showroom by Maja Starek
Live Music – Petar Graso, Amira Medunjanin, Zeljko Joksimovic, Goldsingers – The party band
Makeup Artist – Saša Joković
Hair Styling – TEUTA
Bridal Accessories – Jimmy Choo
Lights – Promo Logistika

 

Congratulations to Emina and Jusuf on their Lovrijenac Fortress wedding filled with vibrant color and show stopping florals! A heartfelt thank you goes out to Vlasta Weddings for expertly capturing every inspiring detail.

Florals and color can turn a great celebration into something unforgettable, just like this wedding shows. The secret to making everything come together perfectly? A trusted team of professionals. Build your dream team by exploring our curated list of the best wedding experts from around the world.

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The Wild West Meets Space at This Retro Ace Hotel Wedding

July 5, 2024 | justine

Maia and Dylan knew right from the start that they wanted their special day to be lighthearted and fun. They were drawn to Palm Springs for its retro charm and decided to infuse their celebration with retro and Western vibes. With Maia’s passion for horseback riding and Dylan’s background in aerospace engineering, their retro Ace Hotel wedding playfully blended a “Wild West” theme with quirky nods to space.

They started the celebration with an intimate first look and exchanged heartfelt vows privately before their enchanting garden ceremony. The festivities continued with a clubhouse reception, where bursts of vibrant orange, twinkling string lights, and dazzling disco balls set the mood for a night of joyous revelry. They capped off the night with a memorable pool jump, marking the end of a truly spectacular day of love and laughter.

If you’re looking for creative ways to personalize your special day with cohesive and stunning touches, these images by Junebug vendor Carmen Lopez provide all the inspiration you could ask for.

The Couple:

Maia and Dylan

The Wedding:

Ace Hotel, Palm Springs, California, United States 

Sharing Quiet Moments and Weathering Wedding Day Surprises

We decided to do a first look and recite our vows privately before the ceremony. It was so meaningful and memorable to see each other in a quiet, calm place, feeling all the emotions wash over us and allowing us to be fully present with each other before any guests arrived. During our ceremony, the wind picked up like crazy. The first guest pulled my veil off my head, and the second knocked our entire backdrop over. Our officiant handled it like a champ, continuing the ceremony flawlessly.

Crafting a Personalized Ceremony Together with Their Officiant

We worked with an incredible officiant, who offers a custom ceremony as one of her options. She interviewed us separately and crafted a ceremony telling our love story. We wrote our vows, which were like love letters to each other. We ended with saying our “I dos,” committing to values like fun and support. We walked down the aisle with our moms to separate songs of our choosing. It felt personal, emotional, happy, and funny, all tied into one short and sweet ceremony.

Budgeting and Planning with Purpose: Staying True to Your Vision

Work together to decide what is important to you as a couple and what is less important. Stay true to this. This will help guide budget and overall planning and ensure your wedding feels like your creation, not what you are supposed to do. If you can, use a wedding planner! Working with Details, Darling was so helpful because she helped us turn vague ideas and how we wanted to feel into a tangible and super special event.

A Personal and Practical Venue Choice for Retro Ace Hotel Wedding

Knowing the vast majority of our guests were flying in from out of town, we wanted to spare them the craziness of LAX. We’ve enjoyed visiting Palm Springs as a couple, and I grew up visiting my grandpa. We were drawn to the Ace Hotel for its laid-back atmosphere, location close to the mountains, and standalone wedding venue. The way it’s set up is super customizable, allowing us to bring our vision to life. And the jump in the venue’s pool at the end of the night.

Traditional Elegance with a Playful Twist to Wedding Beauty

I found this beautiful gown by Flora that feels traditional in some ways (A-line silhouette, balconette neckline) but features a pattern large enough to feel playful. I knew I wanted to do a fun veil for the ceremony and portraits, and I worked with Madison Chamberlain, who does incredible work! We finally nailed the idea of “campy cowgirl chic,” which turned out amazing. I wanted to look glowy and dewy for my makeup, and my eyes wanted to pop. My makeup artist did a fantastic job and nailed it from the trial. I wanted to elevate my style for my hair, and Jen created a beautiful low bun with curly texture on top and chunky braids on both sides.

Customizing Their Wedding Menu with Family Style Dining

Food is essential to us, so we made sure to give guests lots of options. The Ace Hotel offers family-style food as an option, so we chose chicken with mashed potatoes and corn, steak with potatoes and broccolini, and BBQ pulled shiitake with a polenta cake. For dessert, there was a chocolate cake and lemon bars. At about 9 pm, chicken tenders and tater tots came out. Those were a big hit!

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Carmen Lopez
Event Planning – Details, Darling
Ceremony + Reception Venue + Catering – Ace Hotel
Floral Design – Shindig Chic
Cake – Over the Rainbow Desserts
Officiant – Roxanne Hunt
DJ – Alex Harrington
Videography – Amari Productions
Invitation Design – Summit & Sage
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Jen Martens
Wedding Dress – Flora
Bridal Accessories – Madison Chamberlain
Groom’s Apparel – Indochino
Groomsmen’s Apparel – Magnanni
Rings – Tiffany
Rentals – Adore Folklore

 

Congratulations to Maia and Dylan on their Wild West meets retro space Ace Hotel wedding. Many thanks to Junebug vendor Carmen Lopez for beautifully capturing all the details that showcase their love story. Draw inspiration from stunning weddings like this by checking out her profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

This wedding reminds us how important choosing the right venue can be. Your venue sets the stage for a celebration reflecting your personalities as a couple. If you’re just starting to look for a venue, take a look at our ultimate guide to help you find the perfect one.

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The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Speeches

July 2, 2024 | riley

Image by Hugo Coelho. See more of this real wedding here. Read on about nailing wedding speeches and toasts

Wedding speeches may be the most daunting things to write and deliver, but they’re also one of the best parts of any wedding. They give guests a unique perspective on the couple, make you laugh, make you cry, and bring the room together. So, to take some of the pressure off your shoulders, here are some tried-and-true tips for writing a killer wedding speech (or toast)!

Image by Emily Delamater Photography. See more of this real wedding here

The Basics Of Wedding Speeches

Who gives wedding speeches?

Traditionally, the best man, the maid of honor (MOH), and both sets of parents give speeches for the couple. You’ll also find that the couple gives a welcome and gratitude speech. However, here at Junebug, we believe it’s entirely up to you and what you want for your special day. 

We’ve seen brides give the newlywed speech, and we’ve seen best friends give speeches instead of the MOH or best man. If you’re going the non-traditional route, we don’t recommend an open-mic situation where anyone can speak, and we don’t recommend having more than five speeches or guests will start to get restless.

When do the speeches take place?

Most speeches and wedding toasts are given during the wedding reception, either before or after dinner. If you’d rather they be more intimate or you aren’t having a traditional reception, you can also have them take place at the rehearsal dinner.

What is the correct order for speeches?

Did you know that wedding speeches have a logistical order that is typically followed? While it may seem like such a minute detail, it actually makes more sense than you’d imagine. It usually starts with the couple. This gives you the opportunity to welcome and thank your guests for coming. From there, it traditionally goes in this order:

  1. The hosts (typically the parents)
  2. Maid of honor
  3. Best man

Every couple has their preferences on who they want to speak and the order in which they want them to speak. As we mentioned earlier, it’s your wedding. If you have a maid of honor who hates public speaking, or you want your best friend to give the speech rather than your best man, go for it. The same goes for the order we just listed.

How long should wedding speeches be?

No matter how long you’ve known each other, try to keep speeches under five minutes. In fact, three minutes is the sweet spot. Even if you have countless things to say, three minutes can feel a lot longer than you’d expect. Keeping it short and sweet will keep everything, including the newlyweds, happy.

Image by Ana Hinojosa. See more of this real wedding here

Steps For Writing Killer Wedding Speeches and Toasts

The hardest part of writing a speech is knowing where to start. If you’re drawing a blank or having difficulty narrowing down the stories you want to tell, start by making a list of your favorite qualities about the newlyweds. Chances are there are many amazing qualities about them, so making a list of your top three favorites will help you craft a personalized speech tailored to them.

To expand beyond that, you can ask yourself these questions as well:

Questions To Ask Yourself

  • Is there anyone speaking before or after you? If so, how will it affect the content of your speech?
  • What is the general tone you want to convey in your speech? Emotional? Joy? Funny?
  • What are some of your favorite memories with the newlyweds? These memories can be based on the individual getting married or them as a couple
  • What do you see when you envision their future with one another?
  • Is there any advice that you want to share?

When it’s time to start writing, use the following general outline to help create a great speech from beginning to end.

1. Introduce Yourself

Tell everyone your name and a brief explanation of how and when you met the couple or how you’re related. Everyone may not already know who you are, so a little context will go a long way.

2. Tell A Relevant Story

Go back to the list you created and choose a story that reflects the qualities you love most about the couple. This should be relatable, endearing, and appropriate. Make sure you have a point to the story so that you can seamlessly tie it into your speech at the end.

3. Reminisce about the day you met their partner

Everyone in that room will likely have seen different pieces of the couple’s love story, so tell their story from your perspective. Talk about the day you met their significant other for the first time and the moment you realized this was the person they were going to marry.

4. Talk about what you love about their partner

Although your main responsibility is to talk about one of the newlyweds, every speech should ultimately be about both of them. Tell their partner why they are the best choice for your friend and what qualities you love most about them.

5. Talk about your hopes for their future as a couple

If you’re married, this is where you can insert your best piece(s) of advice for a healthy marriage. If you’re not married, wish them a long, happy, and healthy life together. Make your wishes and your advice personal to their relationship and end on a positive, optimistic, and heartfelt vision of their future.

6. End with a toast

Ending a speech can be just as challenging as starting it, which is why we recommend ending with a wedding toast. Ask everyone to raise their glass and toast to the wonderful couple—and, in your own mind, to the killer speech you just gave!

Junebug Tip:

The Art of Etiquette’s wedding guest books include ten speech sheets that will give a beautiful space for your loved ones to write the perfect speech that is short, sweet, and sentimental. We love that they’ve included these thoughtful speech sheets that will double as a wedding keepsake in your guest book.

Image by Annabelle Agnew Photography. See more of this real wedding here

Tips For Giving Wedding Speeches

Don’t drink too much beforehand

We love open bars at weddings as much as the next person, but you don’t want to be slurring your words or drunkenly rambling in front of everyone. Just a couple of sips of liquid courage will get you through those few minutes in front of the crowd, we promise!

Don’t make it about you

It’s okay to be relatable by telling a story, but remember that this speech is about them. After you’ve introduced yourself, move on to talking about the newlyweds and their relationship.

Don’t humiliate the couple

There’s nothing wrong with jokes. In fact, some of the best toasts and speeches inject humor throughout. However, don’t use crude language, tell inappropriate stories, or mention past relationships. The moral of the story is if there’s even the slightest chance someone could feel uncomfortable about something you want to say, leave it out.

Keep it short and sweet

We mentioned this earlier, but it’s an important one! Chances are there will be at least two other people giving speeches before or after you, so keep your speech to five minutes max. If you go any longer than that, the couple and their guests may start getting a little antsy. If you aren’t sure how long your speech will take, our next tip will help.

Practice beforehand

You practice for speeches for school and work, why should a wedding be any different? Rehearse your speech with a friend or in front of the mirror. It will help get some of the nerves out and allow you to make sure it all flows before the big moment. 

Keep in mind that you’ll naturally speak more quickly when you’re handed the microphone, so as you’re practicing make sure you remind yourself to slow down. 

Write your speech down

With all the excitement and nerves of the day, there is a good chance you’ll blank out or forget parts of your speech. Even if you plan to memorize it, write it down and bring it with you just in case. Nobody will fault you for holding notes–just be sure to look up occasionally!

Pass these tips along to everyone giving a speech and toast at your wedding, and get ready for some pretty epic and heartfelt moments! Then start thinking about how to keep the party going all night with these wedding reception songs guaranteed to get your guests dancing.

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Unique Wedding Seating Chart and Escort Card Ideas

July 1, 2024 | riley

Image by The Crakes

One thing your guests are guaranteed to notice on your wedding day is your signage. From the welcome sign to the seating charts, these must-have details help direct guests and play a key role in the overall flow of your celebration. While wedding signage ultimately serves a functional purpose, it doesn’t have to be boring. Getting creative with your designs can turn the mundane into standout decor pieces.

After finalizing your seating arrangements, create a seating chart that seamlessly complements your theme and color palette, making it easy for guests to find as soon as they enter the reception space. Whether you’re looking for a timeless design to match an elegant wedding or retro ideas for an eccentric celebration, here’s a round-up of wedding seating charts perfect for every style.

Wedding Seating Chart FAQs

Is it necessary to have a seating chart necessary?

Although seating charts aren’t necessary, they are extremely helpful–especially if you are having a larger wedding. They make it much easier for your guests to navigate your venue and help you stay on schedule if you’re doing toasts, plated dinners, etc. Lastly, they’re a great way for your guests to be comfortable socially since you can place everyone with familiar faces.

What’s the difference between a seating chart and escort cards?

Escort cards are specifically designed for your individual guests, with their names and table numbers, which they can take with them as they move around. Often, you’ll find that they also include their food preference if having a seated dinner. Seating charts, on the other hand, are one large display that guests can glance at before finding their tables.

How do I create a seating chart?

Some couples opt for a Do-It-Yourself approach, but DIY projects can be quite demanding. You have to design, build, and handle the transportation, which adds stress leading up to and on your wedding day. Hiring a professional for your wedding signage is always a smart move. Their experience and assistance will be well worth the investment.

Do I need to assign seats at each table?

When it comes to finalizing your seating charts, you can choose to assign guests to tables or designate specific seats for each person. Either way, your seating chart display will only direct guests to their assigned table. If you’ve opted for assigned seating, place cards on each table will indicate who sits where.

Do the newlywed’s parents sit together?

This one is entirely up to personal preference. If your parents and in-laws get along, they’ll most likely love sitting together and sharing your special day with one another. If there’s a possibility of tension, don’t be afraid to sit them with other family members.

Food and Beverage Seating Charts & Escort Cards

Image by Joel & Justyna. Signage by Tami Varma

The combination of these half-arch signages and mini drink bottles makes for a stunning and unique seating chart! It’s a beautiful way to say, ‘We’re so glad you’re here’ with style and charm. Image by Marissa Nicole Photography. Signage by The Basic Birch Co. Florals by Wild Greenery. Planning by Cali Curated

This creative display with drink pouches is a fun, modern twist! it’s a perfect blend of function and flair — and a refreshing way to say, “You look like you need a sip!” Image by Dani Nichol Photography. Margarita wall and pouches by Andi Mejia Co. Planning by Melanie Snyder. Month of Coordination by Southern Sparkles Wedding. Florals by Flowers by Lexi. Venue: Luxmore Grande Estate

Photography by Bruno Rezza. Signage by Velvet Fox Designs

Image by McCune Photography. Planning by Details Darling

These enamel camping mugs are “s’more” than just favors — they’re a recipe for sweet memories around any campfire! Perfectly packaged for a cozy treat on the go! Image by Dear Lovers Photography. Planning by Details Darling

Image by Basecamp Visual. Planning & Design by Root and Gather Events. Stationary + Signage by Paper & Dust. Custom Wall by Wallflower Rentals

Retro Seating Charts & Escort Card Ideas

Image by Studio 27 Photography. Seating Chart: Andi Mejia. Venue: Bella Collina. Planner: Plan It Events. Floral: RJ Glam

Image by Jodee Debes Photography. Venue: Holman Ranch. Florals by Seascape Flowers. Paper goods + signage by Summit and Sage. Seating chart display by BooVara Designs. Rentals by Found Rental Co. Planning + design by E Events Co.

These mini disco balls are bringing the sparkle! Perfect for turning any moment into an instant dance party — because who doesn’t need a little extra shine? Image by Mo Speer Photography. Signage by The Crafty Peach

Themed Seating Charts & Escort Cards

Image by Lindsay Hackney. Planning by Lindsey M. Events. Florals by Emily Herzig Floral. Signage by Littleton Sign Co. Escort cards by Pumped on Paper. Logo by Bonomo Paper Co

This vintage frame seating chart is a timeless touch! Elegant and nostalgic, it’s like guiding guests to their seats through a gallery of charm. Image by Wade Muir. Planning by Mad Bash Group

This buri hand fan seating chart is as cool as it gets! A stylish, breezy way for guests to find their seats and stay refreshed. Image by Perry Vaile. Planning & design by A Fox Event

Image by Beatrice Howell. Planning by Valentina Nguyen

Floral Seating Charts & Escort Card Ideas

Photography: Mariam Saifan. Escort Display/Seating Chart: designwise KC. Cake: Taylor Elizabeth Cakes. Catering: Strang Hall. Dress: Bridal Extraordinaire. Floral: Solstice Floral Studio. Hair and Makeup: POSH KC. Model: Lauren Goode. Modern Bounce House: Inflate KC. Planner: Confetti Events. Rentals: Supply. Stationery: Nellie Sparkman. Sweets: Kate Smith Soirée. Venue: Strang Reserve. Videography: Estrella Films KC. 360 Photo Booth: Top Tier Photo

Planning + Design by Bianca Nichole and Co. Photo by Harper Blankenship. Signage by Design to Flourish. Florals by Wildly Cultivated. Venue Villa Antonia.

Image by Elvira Kalviste

Image by Franzi Annika. Signage by  The Coordination Company

Image by Gloria Goode. Planning by Bird Dog Wedding. Signage by LBV Design House. Florals by Reverie Floristry

This acrylic floral signage with a wooden base is the perfect blend of modern and natural vibes. Image by Sunny Golden

Image by ProudRad. Event planning by The Wedding Bliss Thailand

Whether you’re looking for something themed for your special day or a seating chart that’s elegant, these wedding seating charts are the perfect inspiration. If you’re still stuck trying to figure out how to seat your guests, our wedding reception seating chart guide may help!

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The 13 Best UK Wedding Planners For Your Big Day

July 1, 2024 | riley
uk wedding planners hero

Image by We Are The James’s. Planning by Wild Hearts Elopements. Keep scrolling to see the best UK wedding planners

Whether you’re envisioning a grand castle wedding in Scotland, a chic urban affair in London, or a charming countryside ceremony in the Cotswolds, the expertise of a talented wedding planner can make all the difference. If you’re searching for a planner to help bring your vision to life, you’re in luck. Here at Junebug, we vet our vendors to ensure that they’re some of the best in the industry. They bring their creativity, passion, and meticulous attention to detail to craft unforgettable weddings, sure to inspire you. Ready to make your dream wedding come true? Check out these 13 UK wedding planners who are as talented as they are kind.

13 UK Wedding Planners to Consider

1. Westacott Weddings & Events

Good for: Couples who want their planner to have over a decade of experience in event design

Review: “A very big thank you to you and your team for making our vision come to life. We had a stress free day and really enjoyed ourselves during our wedding. Everything turned out amazing. I was very confident that we were in good hands and had nothing to worry about. I really appreciate all of Emma’s help and making the journey to our wedding day as stress free as possible.”

2. Snapdragon

Good for: Couples who want a wedding that looks like it belongs in Vogue

Review: “It was an incredible wedding. So much of that was down to your [the Snapdragon team’s] hard work. I wish I could do it all again!”

3. With Akilah & Co.

Good for: Couples planning smaller, multicultural weddings

Review: “We hired Akilah to help us plan an intimate elopement, and she truly over-delivered! Akilah is organized, professional, creative and most importantly a great person to be around. She absolutely nailed every part of our vision for our wedding day, and I was blown away by how incredible everything turned out. She also gets to know you as a couple and thinks of special things to add to your day that I would never have considered. Since we were eloping, we weren’t really thinking about the usual wedding fanfare, like cake, flowers, and décor. Akilah thought of it all though and crafted a day we could only have dreamt of. We cannot thank her and her team enough and we’re so happy to have such warm and fun people helping us throughout the process.”

4. Wild Hearts Elopements

Good for: Couples looking to run away and elope in Scotland

Review: “Laura was absolutely incredible! My husband and I flew from Washington State to get married in Scotland, and it wouldn’t have been possible if it wasn’t for Laura. I highly recommend working with her to get your dream wedding. Laura is so kind and not only was she our wedding planner, but we consider her one of good friends.”

5. Niemierko

Good for: Weddings that look like they came straight from your Pinterest board

Review: “I was completely impressed the very moment that I met Mark – extremely professional and attentive. I am an individual with high expectations and Mark, by far, exceeded them. Mark planned my daughter’s wedding – we are from the USA – it was the most magnificent event that I have ever attended. Lucas, Mark’s assistant, and all of his staff were the most accommodating and the most professional group of people I have ever been around – the elite of the elite. Their attention to details are unequaled. I am extremely grateful for this flawless special occasion. Mark – I will forever be grateful.”

6. Claire Do Monte Weddings

Good for: Couples searching for a timeless wedding infused with personal details

Review: “Claire was easily the best decision we made when it came to our wedding. She is next-level organised, efficient, and proactive beyond belief. Claire quite simply allowed us to enjoy our day in a way we didn’t think was possible. I genuinely couldn’t have imagined our day [or the lead-up] without her. Our suppliers & venue said she was the best planner they’ve ever worked with, says it all! 10/10 in every single way.”

7. La Fete

Good for: Couples who want every small detail taken care of for them

Review:  “We recently had the pleasure of working with Charlotte for our wedding and can honestly say she was the most lovely, attentive, and genuine professional to have with us for our big day! We had the pleasure of knowing Charlotte pre wedding and we feel so lucky to have such a wonderful friend part of our special day. Charlotte went above and beyond to help manage the best and most magical day of our lives, even keeping our 5-year-old daughter from having tantrums with a piggyback ride whilst I was getting ready. On the day of the wedding, Charlotte made sure everything was seamless and smooth. In turn, we were able to relax and be present in the moment. We can’t thank Charlotte enough! We are still absolutely buzzing, and she was such a massive part of our special day!

8. VC Event Curation

Good for: Couples who aren’t afraid to add a creative flair to their big day

Review: “I cannot recommend Tori and Caroline enough. They were our planners for our December wedding and helped us put together an amazing team of suppliers, made our day run effortlessly smoothly, and sorted any problems before they even became problems. They went above and beyond from looking after our dog who wasn’t allowed inside our venue, to making sure our bags were taken to our hotel room for the evening and driving my husbands parents home when they got tired. And on top of all this, they’re just really lovely people and genuinely enjoy what they do. If you’re thinking of hiring wedding planners, stop thinking and look no further. These are your ladies!”

9. Abigail Lucy Design

Good for: Couples looking for an award-winning planner

Review: “Abigail is a tremendous wedding and event planner that you can wholeheartedly trust to take care of your day and do all in her power to make it a day to remember. With her team, she is able to take your vision, run with it, and help you realise the day of your dreams. Her planning, attention to detail, and communication are wonderful. Her combination of professionalism and approachability means that you are totally reassured that your day, guests, and suppliers are all in the safest of hands—I cannot recommend her enough!

10. Ella Hartig

Good for: Couples who care about sustainability and making the world a better place

Review: “From the moment we started working with Ella, she was professional, kind, patient, and on top of every detail. After two postponements and a cancellation, it really felt like we would never get to our special day. But Ella brought back the excitement and hope with every conversation we had. Nothing was ever too much trouble or out of reach, and we threw some pretty strange requests her way! From the preparation to the day itself, Ella had everything checked and cross checked. Even bringing ideas that we had not thought of. The day went without any issue and that is wholly down to Ella’s hard work. The comments we have had since from our guests have been nothing but glowing. Ella felt like part of the wedding party and took her time to make sure everyone was looked after. We could continue to list the reasons we are so thankful. But in summary, Ella was a superstar, and we would recommend her to every couple.”

11. Planned for Perfection

Good for: Couples looking for a planner who can take on any challenges head-on

Review: “Jane, we can’t begin to thank you enough for the absolutely incredible job you did planning our London wedding. The day was everything we had hoped for and more. Our expectations were totally exceeded, and we know it wouldn’t have been possible without you. Not only are you the most amazing Wedding Planner, but we feel as though we have made a friend for life.
Thank you so much for everything!”

12. Aimee Dunne Ltd

Good for: Couples needing a UK wedding planner that organizes luxury wedding celebrations

Review: “On our first meeting I knew Aimee understood the style of wedding we wanted and was able to pull everything together using many of her excellent contacts and suppliers. She never came to me with an issue before figuring out a way to resolve it, we had a couple of problems with delivery of some items that we had ordered online, Aimee quickly looked for a solution then contacted me to tell me we were now getting them elsewhere and they were even better than the originals! I’m sure the process of finding the replacements was extremely stressful her side, but I was blissfully unaware! Aimee has a really calm and positive nature which helped immensely the closer we got to our big day, I knew everything was in good hands and I was able to totally relax from start to finish. I would highly recommend Aimee if you are looking for someone to take your ideas and create something truly impressive and beautiful! The day was everything I could have wished for and more.”

 

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13. Living For Tomorrow

Good for: Couples who want an emphasis on natural elements

Review: “We had the pleasure of working with Living For Tomorrow for our destination wedding in Aix-en-Provence and couldn’t be happier with the results. From start to finish, the team at Living For Tomorrow truly exceeded our expectations with their creativity and attention to detail. The team handled every little detail with grace and professionalism, ensured that every guest’s needs were met, and they went above and beyond to make our day stress-free and unforgettable.  Their dedication and passion for creating memorable events shone through in every moment of our special day. We can’t recommend them highly enough for anyone seeking a truly exceptional wedding planning experience. Thank you for making our dream wedding a reality!”

These UK wedding planners are just some of the incredible vendors you can find across the pond. We also have photographers, videographers, florists, and more! One look at our vendor directory, and we promise you’ll be able to create a team of vendors that you can be proud of.

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Luxurious and Elegant Berkeley Hotel Wedding Inspiration Shoot

June 30, 2024 | justine

Couples constantly look for ways to make their big day stand out, wanting to do something different and unique. And that’s exactly what this talented team, led by Junebug vendor Honeyscout Photography, achieved. Their inspiration for this Berkeley Hotel wedding shoot was combining elevated romance with extravagant editorial style. The goal was to create a curated wedding experience that felt both luxurious and achievable. With meticulous attention to detail, they crafted a celebration that epitomized elegance and charm, setting a new standard for wedding inspiration.

The stunning beachfront hotel, with its Victorian aesthetic, served as the perfect backdrop for this styled shoot. During the reception, accents of red and pink, along with ambient lighting, enhanced the atmosphere. A grand charcuterie board adorned with fruits and other delicacies added an interactive element to the tablescape, delighting guests. And for the grand finale, the bride and groom joyfully toppled a champagne tower, marking the perfect end to a magical celebration.

Despite the dramatic setting, the fashion stole the spotlight, particularly with the bride’s three chic bridal looks. Are you obsessed yet with this ultra-romantic theme? You surely will be after seeing these stunning photos that you’ll want to save for later.

The Inspiration Behind This Berkeley Hotel Wedding Inspiration Shoot

The inspiration behind this shoot was to mix the elevated romance with an over-the-top editorial opulence. As a photographer, I always try to think outside the box and do something a little different than everyone else. Honestly, I just tried my best to create a curated wedding experience that felt luxurious yet attainable to use as inspiration for brides and grooms. The team who helped bring this vision to life was second to none. We all truly enjoyed every minute of our day together, and everyone worked extremely hard and cohesively in planning and execution. I am so grateful for them and their talent.

Wedding Fashion That Featured Classic Romance With a Touch of Drama

The tailored drop-waist dress was a dream of mine to shoot, and adding my own black gloves to the mix gave it the feeling of a classic romance novel vibe that we were searching for. We gave the bride and groom gaudy jewels to play with on their dinner plates and told them to just get as creative as possible with them. Then, we did high-flash photography in a final reception look, with a dress completely full of crystals. 

Adding Interactive Elements to the Reception Tablescape

I wanted to highlight accents of red and pink, ambient lighting, and a grand charcuterie board intertwined into the tablescape because I would love to see touches of fruit and food as an interactive experience for guests at future weddings. I wanted to do a champagne tower, but instead of pouring champagne into it, I wanted the bride and groom to completely destroy it, as seen in the photos. 

Recommended Reading: Vintage Wedding Cake Roundup

Recommended Reading: 30 Showstopping Reception Dresses to Dance the Night Away In

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Honeyscout Photography
Event Planning – Champagne Magnolias Events
Venue – Berkeley Hotel
Floral Design – Sticks and Stones Flora
Content Creator – The Lucky Share
Cake – Confections of a Rockstar
Charcuterie – The B’s Cheese
Videography – Lex Christie Films
Calligraphy – Dana Britni
Makeup Artist – Casey Moltz
Hair Styling – Lock and Shade + Deanna Saviano
Wedding Dresses – Nicole Bridal + Jersey Gowns
Groom’s Apparel – The Black. Tux
Couple – Eric + Elisa

 

Congratulations to the talented team for making this luxurious and elegant Berkeley Hotel wedding inspiration shoot a huge success. A big thank you to Junebug vendor Honeyscout Photography for capturing and sharing every beautiful detail with us. To see more incredible celebrations to pull inspiration from, check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

Make your wedding really special by celebrating what makes you and your partner different. How do you tie everything together and make it all match? You need a good team to bring your ideas to life smoothly. Check out our curated directory of the world’s best wedding professionals to find the perfect team for your big day. With their help, you can ensure that every detail reflects your personality and style, making your special day truly unforgettable.

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This Villa Le Fontanelle Wedding Was Classically Beautiful

June 29, 2024 | justine

Kani and Arie didn’t initially plan on having a wedding, but when they thought about it, they knew it had to be a two-day destination wedding in their favorite country, Italy. They had taken their first holiday together in Florence, where they went on a wine-tasting tour and fell in love with the area. They dreamed of an authentic, traditional Tuscan wedding and couldn’t think of anything better than a Villa Le Fontanelle wedding.

In their garden ceremony, a beautiful path lined with white blooms guided them to a lush floral arch, creating a picturesque stage for their heartfelt vows. The timeless magic continued throughout the festivities. Their reception was magical—they dined at long family-style tables adorned with lush, low arrangements and candles, all set beneath a canopy of soft draping and fairy lights.

Their dedicated team of vendors meticulously designed every intimate detail, seamlessly blending them with the stunning backdrop, resulting in a truly beautiful wedding. Luckily, Junebug vendor Whites Film was there to capture all the remarkable moments and exquisite elements. We guarantee you’ll be adding these images to your wedding mood board.

The Couple:

Kani and Arie

The Wedding:

Villa Le Fontanelle, Italy 

The Inspiration Behind Their Villa Le Fontanelle Wedding

We never initially wanted to do a wedding. Still, we knew if we were to toy with the idea, it would have to be a destination wedding over two days, so, of course, the only destination we wanted was our favorite country—Italy. We went on our first holiday together in Florence a few years ago. We went on a wine-tasting tour of Tuscany and completely fell in love with the place, knowing instantly that we wanted to do a wedding there. We wanted an authentic traditional Tuscan wedding and couldn’t think of anywhere better than Florence.

Recreating Their First Date Moment During Their Ceremony

One of the most significant and memorable moments was before the wedding started (although very unconventional). On our very first date, I was so nervous that before I even said, “Hello,” I shouted, “Tequila?” and he stumbled, laughed, and said, “Err..sure.” We had tequila, and then I said, “Hi! Nice to see you!” We wanted to recreate that moment before the ceremony but didn’t want to see each other, so we did it blindfolded. Yes, having tequila blindfolded in your wedding suit was not easy. It was our favorite moment of the day and felt so special to us. Even writing about it gives us butterflies.

Cherishing Moments from Their Intimate Villa Le Fontanelle Wedding

We had a small, intimate wedding, only 45 people. Compared to our engagement party of 170 people. We loved the fact that it was so intimate. We have to spend much time with the people we care about most in the world rather than spend a little time with many people. Every little moment makes us smile, even just thinking about it. Seeing the tablescape under the fairy lights overlooking the city of Florence for the first time was magical. Or the traditional Tuscan wedding cake moment. Visually, it was spectacular, like something out of a magazine. But taste-wise? Just wow! The incredible florals, structure, and lights surrounding the caterer while they were making it was unbelievable. It felt like a fairytale.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: A Story of Collaboration and Celebration

We were fortunate to have an incredible team helping us create our perfect day. Our wedding planner, as mentioned earlier, was simply exceptional. While we spoke to several potential planners, it took just 30 seconds for us to decide on Alessia. Her passion and understanding were evident from the start, and we knew she was the one for us. We cannot express enough gratitude for her guidance and support. Alongside White Emotion, we had a world-class photographer, Alessia Angelotti, and a videographer, Claudio Sichel, from Whites Film. We dedicated countless hours to finding these talented individuals; their attention to detail made everything perfect. Despite their professional roles, they made us feel like they were friends celebrating with us at our wedding rather than simply working.

From Rustic to Chic: How Their Wedding Planner Transformed Their Vision

We want to take credit for the wedding design, but all credit goes to our fantastic wedding planner. Initially, we desired a rustic farm-style wedding, but as soon as she got to know us, she swiftly created this incredible, chic wedding with traditional elements! Without exaggeration, she understood our vision even better than we did. She is unbelievable in every way, and we cherish her deeply. This special touch distinguishes the remarkable Alessia and the White Emotion team. Alessia will forever be family to us, and her vision made our perfect day possible.

Adding a Personal Touch to Their Welcome Poolside Celebration

We DIYed for the first day at the welcome white pool party. We got disposable cameras (yes, you read that correctly, they still exist!) with customized name straps for each person so they could also take memorable photos, develop them, and keep them as memories of our special day. Additionally, we made customized beach towels for the guests, which went beautifully with the terracotta-colored Villa.

The Story Behind Finding The Perfect Wedding Dress

Due to time constraints, I knew finding my dress had to be first on the checklist. Serendipitously, I had booked several bridal appointments and had my eye on a Berta gown. The day before my appointment with The Wedding Club, I saw Muse by Berta post a photo of a new dress corset. Excitedly, I shared it with my mum, envisioning how stunning it would look. Upon entering the bridal shop, I spotted the dress displayed at the front. Despite being told it wasn’t available, I pleaded with the sales advisor to let me try it, and it fit perfectly. Adding to the magic, I noticed a rain-like veil that completed the dreamy look. The creative director saw me in the dress by chance and kindly allowed me to have it. It was the only dress I tried, and it was perfect. We later tailored it, adding a layer of shimmer tulle underneath, enhancing its enchantment, true to the classic Muse by Berta style.

Unexpected Beauty: Embracing a New Vision for Their Wedding Flowers

Our florists are the epitome of modern chic. Their floral mood board alone took our breath away. It was the easiest decision we made in the whole wedding process. The funny thing was that Alessia was worried about showing us this mood board as it was the complete opposite of the original wedding theme, but as soon as the groom saw it, it was a hard and firm yes! 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Alessia Angelotti
Event Planning – White Emotion
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Villa Le Fontanelle
Catering – Galateo Ricevimenti
Videography – Whites Film
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – The Porfirio, Drilona Qevani
Groom’s Apparel – Dolce & Gabbana
Rings – Cartier

 

Congratulations to Kane and Arie on their classically beautiful Villa Le Fontanelle wedding. A big thank you to Junebug vendor Whites Film for flawlessly capturing every detail. To explore more of their work, visit their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding videographers.

When couples innately trust their thoughtfully chosen and carefully selected wedding vendors, magic will surely happen! Just like what this couple did, their wedding day turned into an enchanting fairy tale, filled with unforgettable moments and timeless beauty that will be cherished forever.

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Classic Gleneagles Hotel Wedding Overflowing With Flowers

June 27, 2024 | justine

Domenique and Nick’s Gleneagles Hotel wedding had all the ingredients needed for a truly timeless celebration. From the awe-inspiring venue to the stunning arrangements and chic attire, this dreamy event had everything they could ever hope for and more. What made it even more impressive? They planned the entire event themselves!

They made their dream big day come true with flawless execution. And what a setting they chose! The historic estate, with its lavish interiors, provided the perfect backdrop. The bold ballroom ceremony space was adorned with breathtaking florals, creating an enchanting atmosphere for their vow exchange. Transforming the same space for the reception, lush blooms, greenery, and candles graced the tables were added for an ultra-romantic and whimsical touch.

If you’re dreaming of a classic celebration filled with timeless details and personal touches that reflect your unique style as a couple, this Gleneagles Hotel wedding is the perfect inspiration. Junebug vendor Ricky Baillie beautifully captured every moment of this breathtaking day, and we’re thrilled to share it with you here.

The Couple:

Domenique and Nick

The Wedding:

Gleneagles Hotel, Scotland

Why They Chose to Have a Gleneagles Hotel Wedding

Gleneagles hold a special place in both of our hearts. It was where we shared our first overnight stay together, and since then, we’ve made it a tradition to visit every year. It’s a place filled with cherished memories, making it the perfect location for our wedding day.

QR Code Fun: How They Made Their Wedding Favors Interactive

We added a fun twist to our wedding favors by giving out cocktails in bottles with QR codes. When scanned, the codes led our guests to a hilarious video featuring our three-year-old, encouraging them to enjoy their drinks. It was a playful and memorable touch that had everyone laughing and enjoying the moment.

Elevating Their Ceremony with Personal Touches

We wrote our own vows, pouring our hearts into each word, and took our time selecting a celebrant who would truly match our personalities. Andrew D. Scott, our celebrant, exceeded our expectations, bringing warmth and understanding to our ceremony that perfectly reflected who we are as a couple.

From Start to Finish: Embracing Every Moment of Their Special Day

We dedicated a lot of time to infuse our wedding with our personalities, making sure every detail reflected who we are. It truly felt like “us” in every way. The entire day was simply breathtaking, from the beginning to the end. Surprisingly, we found ourselves at the end of the night realizing how much quality time we had spent together. Unlike many couples who feel they didn’t have enough time, we cherished every moment together throughout the day.

The Perfect Collaboration: Organizing Their Wedding Together

Taking charge of the entire event ourselves was quite an adventure. We maintained high energy levels throughout the day, ensuring everything ran smoothly. Organizing the entire event felt like the perfect amount of diy for us. We collaborated on every decision and were both pleased with every choice we made together.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Ricky Baillie
Second Shooter – Jakki Brock
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Gleneagles Hotel
Floral Design – Wildflowers Edinburgh
Cake – Cakes by Jenna
Officiant – Andrewd Scott
DJ – Euan Lawrence + Tartan Entertainment Group
Harpist – Charlotte Sage
Pipers – Red Hot Chili Pipers
Ariel Actor – Sophie Archer
Break Dancers – GrandSlam Events
Live Music – Frances Maddin
Videography – TLC Media
Invitation Design – Eden Rose Design Studio
Makeup Artist – Nikki Marshall
Hair Styling – Christopher Laird
Wedding Dress – Elegant Sposa
Bridal Accessories – Rox
Groom’s Apparel – 21st Century Kilts
Groomsmen’s Apparel – Christian Louboutin
Lighting – Paddy Gordon

 

Congratulations to Domenique and Nick on their classic Gleneagles Hotel wedding overflowing with flowers. A heartfelt thank you goes to Junebug vendor Ricky Baillie for capturing all the precious moments this couple will treasure forever. For more of his amazing work, check out his profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

From a stunning venue to breathtaking floral arrangements and personalized touches—this celebration is full of timeless elements that never go out of style. If you and your partner dream of an elegant celebration filled with romance, you’ve come to the right place. We’re here to help with our planning and budget guides so you can start turning your dream wedding into a reality.

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This Dreamy Kima Tulum Wedding Took Place in the Middle of the Jungle

June 25, 2024 | justine

Jacqueline and Johann found the perfect spot for their wedding: a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery in tropical Tulum. The moment they laid eyes on it, they knew it was meant to be. With its secluded charm, their dreamy Kima Tulum wedding became a reality in this extraordinary setting. Soft pastel colors and delicate flowers adorned the space, blending seamlessly with the natural beauty around them. It was more than just a wedding; it was a reflection of their love story and who they are as a couple.

The ceremony took place in a tranquil jungle cove, where a stunning bamboo arch became the focal point. As the festivities shifted to the reception, KIMA underwent a wondrous makeover, turning into a captivating oasis. The ambiance echoed a mystical jungle, highlighted by a dreamy cloud of baby’s breath hovering above the tables. Rattan pendant lamps and twinkling string lights enhanced the enchantment, casting a spell on all who were present.

Don’t miss a thing from the amazing tropical setting to the fun atmosphere and sweet moments, all captured by Junebug vendor MemoryBox Photography. If you’re planning a dreamy Mexico wedding, this is the perfect inspiration for you!

The Couple:

Jacqueline and Johann

The Wedding:

Kima Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico

Setting the Tone With Their Welcome Party

While designing our mood board, I chose three words I wanted our day to embody and selected everything to fit those three words. For our welcome party, we chose “cool,” “sexy,” and “understated.” We went to an incredible cave venue at Papaya Playa Project with twinkling lights in the wooden floorboards that resemble stars, opening up to the ocean’s crashing waves. We lit the cave with warm, low amber lights and dried neutral florals, pampas, and candles to keep everything minimal and cool. Our guests also had access to the rooftop on top of the cave, where we set up the DJ and bar to overlook the ocean, with low cocktail tables and bean bag chairs. Our dress code was neutral colors and earth tones, matching Tulum’s earthy vibe and setting a great tone for the weekend.

Creating a Romantic Atmosphere with Pastel Colors

For our wedding day, we chose “dreamy,” “romantic,” and “fun.” We mainly used light greens, creams, and bright yellows, with pastel blush, lilac, and peachy-orange pops. All chairs were a light, bright wood, setting a sweet, cotton-candy mood. I had hanging installations of wooden lanterns and string lights to resemble stars and poofy floral clouds made of white and light pink baby’s breath over the reception area. We opted for interesting florals that brought texture and layers, sticking with the light and pastel color theme but arranging them in a gradient color pattern, clustering similar colored florals together for a unique look. Our dress code was colorful and festive, with a gentle request to avoid black, and all our guests followed it beautifully. The bright colors created a positive and fun vibe everywhere you looked; every photo was so dreamy. Looking out at our guests during the reception and seeing a sea of smiling faces of people who love and support us so much was overwhelming. We got a bit choked up when we actually had a moment to stop and see everyone together during our welcome toast. It was truly special.

Why Kima Was The Perfect Wedding Venue

Kima is truly a one-of-a-kind venue. It gives you the feeling of being in your own jungle paradise, with two acres of oasis all to yourself. Yet, surprisingly, you’re only 15-20 minutes away from the beach and downtown Tulum. Kima has this amazing jungle-chic vibe, with a sexy touch in its sleek minimalist room designs and rugged jungle bar. The ceremony area feels like a hidden gem in the heart of the jungle, with copals burning around you, creating an intimate atmosphere. But then, when you step into the reception area, it’s like stepping into a whole other world—a spacious, open space just waiting for a party to kick off! And let’s not forget about the pool. It’s practically calling out to be jumped into at night’s end.

Keeping their Dreamy Kima Tulum Wedding Vibe Positive

Guests tend to mirror the attitude and mood of the bride and groom. So, if people see you getting upset or stressed over something, guests will also feel upset. If you keep it fun and happy, the party will keep going. And if you want people on the dance floor, stay on the dance floor. I’m really proud of the attitude Johann and I had during our wedding week. We were just so happy to be in Tulum with the people we love, and we knew at the end of the day, the smaller details didn’t matter—we were so loved and lucky. Things didn’t go perfectly 100% of the time, but we did not let it bring down our mood for a second. We knew we had a great wedding team, and everything worked out. 

Setting a Realistic Dreamy Kima Tulum Wedding Budget

We sat down and discussed how much each of us felt comfortable contributing to our wedding and agreed on a budget goal for our wedding weekend. We were aware that people often go over budget with wedding planning, so we saw our budget more as a target rather than a strict number. Since we planned a destination wedding, we knew our guest count would be lower, which helped with budgeting, as that has the highest impact overall. We identified essential areas to prioritize (such as ample food throughout the weekend, transportation, open bars, photographers, and hair and makeup), and everything else was considered extra. The biggest surprise expense for us was the cost of rentals. To help stay within budget, I compared rental fees with the cost of purchasing items from Amazon, which saved us a significant amount of money in some cases. So, here’s a tip for other couples: if your venue includes tables, chairs, linens, etc., that can be a huge money saver, as renting each of those items individually can quickly eat into your budget.

A Hilarious High School Prank Turned Wedding Surprise

Back in high school, Johann’s friends pulled a prank on him that he’ll never forget. They made a stencil of his face from a photograph and spray-painted it on many stop signs around town. Johann didn’t notice for two whole weeks, and when he finally did, he was furious! But his dad found it absolutely hilarious and even kept one of the street signs in their garage as a memento. During our cocktail hour, I decided to surprise Johann with edible cocktail toppers made with that very stencil of his face. He couldn’t believe it and found it absolutely hilarious.

 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – MemoryBox Photography
Event Planning – The Eventeur
Venue – Kima Tulum
Floral Design – Aralia
Catering – Gourmet Soberanis
DJ – Uno Audio Visual
Invitation Design – Heres to You
Makeup Artist – Leydi Cano
Hair Styling – Daniel Perez Astorga
Rentals – Archive Rentals

 

Congratulations to Jacqueline and Johann on their dreamy Kima Tulum wedding. A heartfelt thank you to Junebug vendor MemoryBox Photography for skillfully capturing every cherished moment and intricate detail. For more of their exceptional work, check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

Planning a destination wedding involves meticulous coordination. Just like Jacqueline and Johann’s celebration, success hinges on assembling a committed team. Whether it’s selecting the perfect vendors or effectively articulating your vision, our comprehensive destination wedding planning guide has all the insights to help you bring your dream getaway wedding to life.

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Colorfully Timeless Marigny Opera House Destination Wedding

June 23, 2024 | justine

With guests flying in from around the world, Laura and Stuart wanted to make sure their big day was unforgettable for everyone. They focused on filling their celebration with love, joy, lively music, and delicious food. That’s why they chose New Orleans, a city known for its vibrant energy. With their unique venue setting the tone, their Marigny Opera House destination wedding became a colorful and timeless event that perfectly matched their vision.

They chose the historic former church turned opera house as the perfect backdrop for their vows. The space was adorned with black Bentwood Thonet chairs and beautiful aisle arrangements. After the ceremony, they embraced the NOLA tradition with a second-line parade through the streets. Upon returning to the opera house, the celebration continued with a reception featuring long tables adorned with flowers, candles, and gold settings.

On their wedding day, the couple’s dedication and effort were evident to all. The destination celebration was full of energy, leaving a lasting impact on everyone present. Junebug vendor Dallas and Sabrina skillfully captured the enchantment with breathtaking photos, highlighting the personal touches that made the day truly unforgettable.

The Couple:

Laura and Stuart

The Wedding:

Marigny Opera House, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

Why They Chose Marigny Opera House Destination Wedding

We opted for a destination wedding because, while we live in London, all our family and friends are spread across the US and the UK. This meant there would never be one convenient city for everyone on our list. So, we chose a place where no one lived, but it was one of our dream destinations. New Orleans is so colorful and full of life and history, and the food is incredible, so it felt like the perfect place. Once we decided on the city, I started researching venues and fell in love with the Marigny Opera House, which inspired the design of the entire wedding. Overall, no stone was left unturned for this wedding—from the colors to the flowers, the food, and the drinks. We spent a lot of time creating something that felt like us but also that people would enjoy.

A Sweet and Short Yet Personal Ceremony

Our entire ceremony was incredibly sweet and personal. Our dear friend Emily Sears officiated, which made it even more special. We also wrote our own vows, adding a personal touch that meant a lot to us. The ceremony was perfect—short and sweet, just the way we wanted it. The intimate atmosphere and the heartfelt words made it a moment we’ll always cherish.

Drawing Design Inspiration from Marigny Opera House

The Marigny Opera House has stunning, colorful floors that inspired our color palette. We used the rich rust color for the chair pads on our Bentwood Thonet chairs, the lilac tone in our florals, black for our bridal party dresses, and the shoulder bows on my wedding dress. The floors influenced our design choices, inspiring an eclectic and colorful yet elegant theme. Despite our winter wedding, we avoided a traditional “wintery” feel. We also love vintage furniture and made sure to include it. We created a mood board for our wedding planner, who helped us find the right vendors to achieve our vision.

Savoring Authentic Creole Cuisine and Crafting Signature Cocktails

For the food, our top priority was authentic Creole/Cajun cuisine, which tasted amazing. During the cocktail hour, we had a raw oyster bar and passed Creole bites. For dinner, we featured a Creole rice bar with various toppings and sides. It was delicious. Cocktails were equally important to us, so we spent much time choosing our signature drinks. We partnered with Chopin Vodka and Mezcal Campante to create special cocktails. We had a Bloody Mary bar with ZingZang mix, vodka or mezcal options, and add-ons like pickled okra. We each chose a signature cocktail—one with vodka and one with mezcal.

Bringing a New Orleans Tradition to Their Marigny Opera House Destination Wedding

Since none of our family members are from New Orleans, many have never heard of a second-line parade. So when the Kinfolk Jazz Band showed up, it was really fun to see everyone’s reaction to the fact that we were about to embark on a police-escorted foot parade around the neighborhood. My Midwestern aunts kept telling me what a “hoot” it was.

Navigating the Challenges of a Destination Wedding with a Trusted Wedding Planner

Get a good wedding planner you trust—it’s worth the money, especially for a destination wedding. Planning a wedding in New Orleans while living in London is no joke. We tried to visit in person to plan and meet vendors, but Hurricane Ida hit New Orleans the week we were supposed to go, so we got stuck in New York. Leading up to our wedding day, we had never even set foot in our venue, so we relied on our planner to get things right, and they did!

Starting the Celebration with Personalized Souvenirs at Their Marigny Opera House Destination Wedding Welcome Party

Upon returning to the venue after the second-line parade, we welcomed everyone with shots of Mezcal Campante and a bite of dark chocolate to kick off the party. These were served in custom shot glasses featuring our names and wedding dates, which guests were welcome to keep as souvenirs. We wanted to give something useful and not too bulky, especially since everyone had traveled for the wedding.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Dallas and Sabrina
Event Planning – Confetti & Co.
Venue – Marigny Opera House
Floral Design – Sharime Kayla
Catering – My House Events
Live Music – Typically Booked
Makeup + Hair Styling – Courtney Pittman
Wedding Dress – Galia Lahav via Browns Bride
Bridal Accessories – Phillipa Lepley
Bridesmaids’ Apparel – Anthropologie
Rentals – Distressed Rentals + BBJ Tavolata
Transportation – Big Easy Limos

 

Congratulations to Laura and Stuart on their colorfully timeless Marigny Opera House destination wedding. A big thank you to Junebug vendor Dallas and Sabrina for perfectly capturing the joy and excitement of their special day. Check out more of their amazing work in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

Creating an unforgettable celebration requires the perfect mix of elements: a stunning venue, lively entertainment, and mouth-watering food—just like this wedding! With the right team of vendors to bring your vision to life, the possibilities are endless. 

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