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Magical Monochromatic Alila Villas Uluwatu Wedding

July 18, 2024 | justine

Sharon and Regan wanted their big day to focus on timeless elegance and heartfelt connection. With this vision in mind, they and their fantastic vendor team focused on thoughtful details to make their Alila Villas Uluwatu wedding dream come true. The unique cliff-top venue with stunning views of the Indian Ocean, the monochromatic, understated luxe aesthetic, and the chic attire all came together perfectly. The couple went all out, and it was a beautiful and unforgettable day.

The pair exchanged heartfelt vows at the cliff-edge cabana. White flowers and candles lined the aisle, while unique arrangements at the altar drew everyone’s eyes to the breathtaking, endless horizon. After their dreamy “I dos,” they moved to the garden, where a stunning outdoor reception awaited. Crystal chandeliers hung above luxurious tables filled with white blooms and taper candles, creating a magical and unforgettable evening.

And it wasn’t just the views and the decor that were amazing that day. The groom looked stylish in a beige suit, and the bride looked like a goddess in her strapless gown. To see all the beautiful details up close, check out these stunning photos captured by Pyara Photo and get your Pinterest boards ready!

The Couple:

Sharon and Regan

The Wedding:

Alila Villas Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia

Thoughtful Wedding Details: Customized Jewelry and Elegant Wedding Attire

We put much thought into selecting our wedding jewelry, opting for customized pieces that spoke to our styles. For our wedding bands, we chose exquisite gold rings featuring a marquise center stone accented by varying-size diamonds that adorned the entirety of the ring for me. In contrast, Regan’s ring boasted an elegant hairline textured finish with a striking baguette diamond. Each gold band continues an engraved message he wrote for me in my ring, adding a sentimental touch to our exchange of vows. Additionally, I adorned myself with a layered pearl necklace and baroque pearl earrings, completing my bridal ensemble with timeless elegance. Regan wore a bespoke three-piece suit in a beige hue paired with dark brown shoes for the attire. At the same time, I chose a sleek white gown and an A-line ivory dress featuring a lace bustier with an exposed corset style, completing it with Valentino Garavani Atelier heels.

Creating a Timeless Alila Villas Uluwatu Wedding Aesthetic

Our wedding reflected our vision for an elegant, minimal, and intimate day. The design seamlessly blended simplicity and sophistication, resulting in a timeless aesthetic that felt effortlessly beautiful. Every detail was bathed in shades of white, while accents of raw elements like washed wood and brass added a touch of rustic charm. Thousands of white roses seemingly blossoming from the lush green grass forming a runway, a centerpiece of boldly clustered candles, hanging chandeliers along the tablescapes, layers of textural glassware, and silk napkins drape integrated with the natural surroundings, every aspect came together to create a sense of refined charm. Overall, it was a celebration that embodied our love for understated elegance and heartfelt connection.

Unforgettable Ceremony Moments

I cherish the moment my parents walked me down the aisle as I locked eyes with Regan. He stands against a breathtaking backdrop of the ocean merging seamlessly with the sky, the gentle breeze, the soothing rhythm of the waves, and the enchanting melody of the violin and cello intertwining fills the air, surrounded by our beloved friends and family. And suddenly, being able to see him only, his face had a huge grin and teary eyes, just like mine. I still can’t tell who is sitting by the aisle as I walk through; it is all a blur except for him. I adore the indescribable rush of emotions following the ceremony. We were both brimming with excitement and couldn’t stop smiling.

Essential Advice for a Stress-Free Wedding Day

One piece of advice would be not to let yourself get too stressed. Celebrate the small wins during the process instead of stressing over them. Additionally, communication was critical throughout the planning process. Prioritize what truly matters to you as a couple; regular check-ins with vendors and clear, open discussions with each other will help you stay organized and on the same page. All that matters is that you and your guests are having a blast, and the key element to ensure this happens is your energy – it’s the source of everyone’s happiness.

Bringing to Life Their Dream Day Through Collaboration and Meaningful Elements

As both a wedding stylist and the bride, there’s a deeply personal joy in crafting my dream aesthetic and witnessing its transformation into reality. We poured our hearts into infusing personalized details throughout the day, from DIY wedding favors and papeteries to our vows. Our wedding was a collaborative effort involving us and our families, friends, and vendors. From planning to execution, seeing everyone come together to make our vision a reality was gratifying. Overall, we’re proud of how our wedding reflected our values, our love for each other, and the incredible community surrounding us. It was a day filled with tears of joy, love, laughter, and genuine moments that we’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Why They Chose to Have an Alila Villas Uluwatu Wedding 

We chose the Alila Villas Uluwatu as our wedding venue because it perfectly aligns with my vision of marrying in Bali, with its breathtaking cliff views, exceptional service, and hospitality. The venue’s stunning white aesthetics and powerful architecture, seamlessly integrating with its natural surroundings, captured my heart. Every space in the venue offers a distinct perspective, with open layouts that showcase the surrounding nature and unique natural materials throughout the property, making it the ideal choice for my special day.

Bali-Inspired Wedding Favors

We decided to give out limoncello in small jars as wedding favors. It’s one of my favorite drinks from my trips to Bali, and I wanted to share that experience with our guests. Plus, it’s a lovely way for them to take a piece of the celebration home with them.

Infusing Meaning and Style Through their DIY Projects

I poured my heart into DIY projects that reflected our wedding style. We crafted our favors, tying delicate rope accents onto small bottles of limoncello adorned with custom stickers. Additionally, I designed all the graphics for our papeteries and stationeries—including invitations, menus, place cards, seating charts, and the wedding schedule. We aimed for simplicity and elegance, opting for textured handmade paper and sophisticated typography. Additionally, I handcrafted napkins using silk fabric, imparting a raw yet opulent feel to our table settings.

The Wedding Team:

Photography + Videography – Pyara Photo
Event Planning – The White Journals
Ceremony + Reception Venue + Catering + Cake – Alila Villas Uluwatu
Floral Design – Rhea Wedding Decoration
DJ – Meta Wirawan
Makeup Artist – Stefany Layata
Wedding Dress – Fellyza Sanjaya
Content Creator – Bride Whisperer
Groom’s Apparel – SAS Designs
Rentals – Bali Sewa Sewa + Bloomz Bali rentals

 

Congratulations to Sharon and Regan on their magical monochromatic Alila Villas Uluwatu wedding. Thank you to  Pyara Photo for capturing all the stunning details and memorable moments this couple will cherish for the rest of their lives.

There’s something truly magical about a classic wedding, just like Sharon and Regan’s special day. If you want to look at your wedding photos in 10 years and still adore every detail, take a look at our guide to a timeless wedding. It has easy tips to help you create a classic wedding that will remain beautiful for years to come.

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Your Guide to the Wedding Processional Order

July 17, 2024 | kailey

Image by Manuel Aldana.

The wedding ceremony is arguably one of the most significant parts of any wedding. Despite being relatively short, it’s filled with a large amount of sentiment and meaning. It’s also the moment when you’ll exchange wedding vows and be pronounced as a married couple in front of your loved ones. Given its importance, you’ll likely want every detail to be perfect from start to finish.

When it comes to planning your ceremony, you don’t just have to worry about writing vows or picking the perfect processional song. You also have to consider the order in which people walk down the aisle. The wedding procession marks the beginning of the ceremony and sets the tone for the rest of the event. To ensure your ceremony starts off smoothly and in an organized manner, here’s a breakdown of both traditional and non-denominational wedding processional orders. 

FAQs for Wedding Procession Order

What is a Wedding Processional?

A wedding processional marks the beginning of a ceremony. It’s where notable family members, wedding parties, and the couple make their way down the aisle. 

What is the Length of a Wedding Processional?

The length of a wedding processional can vary widely based on several factors, including the number of participants, the size of the venue, and the choice of music. On average, processionals last anywhere between five to seven minutes. 

How Can You Customize Your Processional?

Your wedding, your rules, applies to every portion of your wedding day, including the processional. And there are many ways to personalize this small portion of your wedding day. There are numerous ways to personalize this special part of your day. You can experiment with the processional order, choose unexpected music, or even have a flower girl grandma.

What if the Number of Bridesmaids and Groomsmen is Uneven?

This is where you can get creative with your processional order. Traditionally bridesmaids are escorted down the aisle by groomsmen, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Maybe you just want something different, or you have an uneven party. This could be the solution. Consider having your bridesmaids and groomsmen walk down solo. 

What Song Should I Play for Our Processional?

There is so much opportunity for creativity in this simple walk, especially when it comes to your music choices. The music you choose for each component of your wedding matters as it enhances the moment. If you’re looking for processional song ideas with a little more flair, check out this list of possible tracks.

Traditional Wedding Processional Order

When hosting a traditional or religious celebration, couples often adhere to a customary wedding processional order. This is the case whether you’re tying the knot in a local church or a lavish ballroom. If you’re working with your officiant to create a traditional ceremony script, use this processional order as inspiration for your grand entrance. 

1. Officiant

The officiant–who leads the ceremony–is typically the first to walk down the aisle. They are responsible for the opening remarks to the guests. Once they reach the altar, they will announce any important information, such as the ceremony being unplugged or instructions for the grand exit. The music will not officially start playing until after the officiant is in place. 

2. First Partner’s Parents 

Traditionally, the first partner approaches from the side prior to the processional, eagerly awaiting their soon-to-be spouse to walk down the aisle. But their parents will still be included in the processional. They will make their way down the aisle and take their seats to the right of the aisle in the front row.

3. Second Partner’s Mother

Next to walk down the aisle is the second partner’s mother. This important person is the last to be seated among the parents and grandparents. Her seating signals the official start of the wedding party’s procession.

4. Groomsmen and The Best Man 

Kicking off the wedding party’s processional will be the groomsmen and the best man. The groomsmen can either walk down the aisle individually or paired with bridesmaids—this is a personal preference. The best man will then follow, taking his place beside the groom at the altar.

5. Bridesmaids and The Maid or Matron of Honor

If not being escorted by the groomsmen, the bridesmaids will then walk down the aisle one by one, starting with the one who will stand furthest from the bride. After all the bridesmaids have made their way, the maid or matron of honor follows, taking her place closest to the bride.

6. Flower Girl and Ring Bearer

If you’ve chosen to include a flower girl and a ring bearer, they will follow the wedding party. The ring bearer walks down the aisle holding the wedding bands, followed by the flower girl who scatters petals to prepare the aisle.

7. Second Partner and Their Father

At this moment, the processional song begins as the second partner walks down the aisle. Traditionally, they are escorted by their father or another significant person in their life. This marks the head-turning moment, marking the official start of the ceremony. 

Modern Non-Denominational Wedding Processional Order

Those who wish to fully customize their wedding processional order often opt for a non-denominational approach. Couples who choose this route are met with a variety of unique options that break away from tradition. While it may resemble a traditional processional order, you can make substitutions and changes as desired to suit your preferences.

1. Officiant

The officiant will kick off the processional, walking down the aisle. This can be a friend, notable family member, or anyone you trust who’s ordained to perform weddings. For a modern approach, consider an officiant that’ll customize your ceremony script. 

2. First Partner and Parents 

Traditionally, there is always one partner waiting at the altar at the beginning of the processional. We’re seeing more couples put their own twist on things. Rather than approaching from the side, the first partner will walk down the aisle solo or be escorted by their parents. After leading their child to the altar, the parents will take their seats to the right of the aisle in the front row. 

3. Groomsmen and The Best Man 

Similar to the traditional processional order, the groomsmen and the best man will follow the parents. Starting with groomsmen, walking down the aisle solo or coupled with bridesmaids, followed by the best man taking his place beside the groom at the altar.

4. Bridesmaids and The Maid or Matron of Honor

If not being escorted, the bridesmaids will then walk down the aisle one by one, starting with the one who will stand furthest from the bride. After all the bridesmaids have made their way, the maid or matron of honor follows, taking her place closest to the bride.

5. Flower Grandma

While most couples choose to include a flower girl, we’re seeing more people add an unexpected touch to the processional with a flower grandma. Following the wedding party, she scatters petals to prepare the aisle. 

6. Second Partner and Their Parents 

At this moment, the second partner walks down the aisle. Typically escorted by their father, this isn’t always the case. It can be grandparents, siblings, or both parents! This is another chance to get creative with your processional. 

wedding processional order

Image by Carolin Volker.

The wedding processional order is just one component of a ceremony. There are many other details to consider, from your vows to the ceremony script. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to begin, check out our wedding ceremony planning guide. It’s filled with valuable resources and guides to help you through every step of the planning process.

wedding processional order

Image by Manuel Aldana.

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This Colorful Factory51 Wedding Was Complete With the Couple’s Furry Friend

July 16, 2024 | justine

For many couples who have dreamed of their big day forever, wedding planning can be a breeze. But for Ellen and Luke, it wasn’t so simple. Their first theme just didn’t feel right. After much soul-searching and countless hours on Pinterest, they finally found their style. They were drawn to fun elements that truly reflected their personalities. With a naturally beautiful venue, a bold color palette, and unique flowers and decor, their vision came to life perfectly at their Factory51 wedding.

The couple’s park ceremony was intentionally intimate, with only 16 guests and their beloved dog, Snickers. In a shady spot under the trees–with earthy arrangements as their backdrop–the couple exchanged heartfelt vows, creating a truly special moment crafted by Junebug vendor Brisbane Celebrants. For the reception, the rustic warehouse venue was transformed into a magical setting. A backdrop curtain of cascading fairy lights contrasted beautifully with the red brick walls, creating an enchanting atmosphere for their celebration.

If you want ideas to add fun and personal touches to your celebration, this is the perfect example! You’ll be amazed by every detail, all wonderfully captured by Paper Bark Stories.

The Couple:

Ellen and Luke

The Wedding:

Factory51, Brisbane, Australia

The Story Behind the Evolution of Their Factory51 Wedding Design

Our original design plan was completely different from how our wedding turned out. Initially, we had settled on sage green, which was lovely, but it didn’t feel like us. Neither of us had envisioned our wedding day. It took a few weeks until I grew frustrated and asked myself, “What do I truly like?” After some soul-searching on Pinterest, I began to find my style. We eventually settled on colors that felt lively—pink and orange were vibrant and fun! Suddenly, the joy of planning returned, and I felt excited and motivated to continue. From then on, whenever we encountered a roadblock, we chose the most enjoyable option. Looking at our photos, you can see how much fun we were having. It may sound like a cliché, but authenticity is timeless. If you stay true to yourself, who cares if something falls out of fashion?

Balancing Personalities and Customizing Every Detail of Their Ceremony with the Help of Their Officiant

Luke is an introvert, and I am an extrovert (as you can probably tell by my dress choice!). Coming from a large family, I knew our wedding needed to balance our personalities. For Luke, the idea of standing in front of 120 people and reading vows was daunting. So, we opted for an intimate ceremony with just 16 guests—our immediate family, grandparents, and two close friends. It was perfect for anyone who prefers to avoid the spotlight. To keep our vows private and intimate, we exchanged personalized letters beforehand and used standard wording during the ceremony. Only we know the contents of those heartfelt letters. Our celebrant, Cara of Brisbane Celebrants, was wonderful to work with and managed the ceremony decor, making everything so convenient. Her decor business allowed us to customize every detail, from drinks tubs to dried florals and confetti. My top advice: choose reliable vendors who truly understand your vision and make your day unforgettable.

How Their Dog Snickers Played an Important Role During the Ceremony

Having our dog, Snickers, at our ceremony was so special. His presence helped us get over our nerves, and he’s so cute! From a young age, girls are always told their wedding day will be the best day of their lives. Your wedding will be incredible, and you’ll remember it forever, but there is so much pressure to put on a single day. Having Snickers with us made it feel less formal. He grounded us and reminded us why we were walking up that altar.

Navigating Wedding Planning Challenges: Insights from a Bride’s Experience

Initially, the planning process was challenging because I was overly concerned with others’ opinions. Once I let go of the need to please everyone, I found much more enjoyment in the planning. We did things our way, disregarded others’ opinions, and had a fantastic day. My advice is: don’t put unnecessary pressure on yourself! Those on a budget, like we were, should consider working with small businesses. Most of the time, they are more cost-effective, reliable, and kind. Many “big brands” ignored my emails, took forever to provide quotes, and seemed disinterested. I still keep in touch with my photographer, cake lady, and celebrant. They’re wonderful people who remember my name, and that’s such a special feeling.

Creating a Budget-Friendly Factory51 Wedding Plan by Prioritizing What Matters Most

We’re young and preparing to buy our first home, so spending a potential house deposit on a single day just wasn’t realistic for us. We sat down together and listed what was most important to us, which helped us create our wedding budget. Our non-negotiables were things we absolutely wanted and wouldn’t compromise on, no matter what. The nice-to-haves were extras that would be nice, but we knew we wouldn’t regret skipping them. It’s crucial to talk to each other and prioritize. Getting caught up in trends from TikTok and the wedding world is easy, so referring back to our list helped us stay focused. Is that trend, a non-negotiable, or just a nice-to-have? That approach kept us from adding unnecessary items to our plans.

Choosing a Naturally Beautiful and Convenient Venue

Our venue was naturally stunning. I knew I didn’t want to rent a space and then have to decorate it extensively. It was also conveniently located, close to home with easy Uber access, and elderly-friendly with no stairs. We wanted to make it simple for everyone to attend without needing pet sitters or accommodation. Plus, who doesn’t love Italian food? The cuisine was delicious, and guests still rave about how fantastic it was.

Enhancing their Factory51 Wedding Experience Through DIY Touches

Luke’s DIY floral pocket square was crafted with cardboard, dried florals, and ribbon, ensuring it stayed perfectly in place throughout the day, unlike traditional boutonnieres. Our wedding newspapers, created using Canva, added a delightful touch to our photos and included a word search for guests’ entertainment. After numerous design tweaks, the DIY invitations turned out beautifully and are still proudly displayed on friends’ fridges. I repurposed dried bouquets into charming arrangements for our table numbers while our seating chart, printed on foam board via Canva, hung elegantly from a Kmart clothing rack adorned with fake flowers. These creative DIY projects saved us money and added a personalized touch that made our wedding day even more memorable.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Paper Bark Stories
Ceremony Venue – Roma Street Parklands
Reception Venue – Factory51
Wedding Ceremony Decor – With Love – Brisbane Wedding Decorators
Cake – Little Sprinkle Co.
Officiant – Brisbane Officiants
DJ – Aaron Magnus
Makeup Artist – Demi Beauty
Hair Styling – Hair By Talen

 

Congratulations to Ellen and Luke on their colorful Factory51 wedding, complete with their furry friend. A big thanks to Paper Bark Stories for capturing the special moments and thoughtful details that made this celebration unforgettable. Of course, we must also thank Junebug member Brisbane Officiants for helping the couple tie the knot. If you’re in Brisbane and need an officiant, be sure to check out their profile in our directory of officiants from around the world!

Make sure your wedding reflects both you and your partner’s personalities and vision. Aim for a one-of-a-kind experience—don’t settle for less! The secret to making it happen is having a great team of vendors. Look at our handpicked list of top experts from around the world to help create your perfect day.

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This Wool Mill Wedding Was the Definition of a Party

July 15, 2024 | justine

From the start, Jaimi and Mizz wanted their fun-loving spirits to shine in every detail of their big day, and they certainly succeeded! With a blank canvas venue, a bold color palette, and unique decor, their Wool Mill wedding was the perfect definition of a party. Complete with personal touches, witty humor, and laughter echoing in every corner. The day that radiated joy and creativity, reflecting their love and shared sense of fun.

They aimed to create distinct atmospheres within a single venue. For the ceremony, a soft, romantic feel prevailed with whites and pastel tones, drawing attention to a lilac backdrop adorned with flowers and floor candles. Despite the romantic theme, white streamers above and mirrored balls along the aisle added a touch of disco flair. The reception, in contrast, embraced boldness with vibrant pops of orange. These colors extended to the tables, where alternating orange and lilac personalized menus and napkins complemented tall, tapered candles and vivid floral arrangements, all set against crisp white tablecloths. The highlight was the striking orange, lilac, and silver streamer installation, serving as a captivating focal point.

If you’re up for getting inspired to make your celebration extra fun and personal, you’re in luck! Check out all the amazing details expertly captured by Junebug vendor The Lavender Haze.

The Couple:

Jaimi and Mizz

The Wedding:

Wool Mill, Melbourne, Victoria, Austrailia

Crafting Two Distinct Wedding Scenes in One Venue

We wanted to create two separate atmospheres within one location—soft romance for our ceremony and a bold, bright party reception. The ceremony was to be romantic, with love as the focus, using whites and pastel tones of our color scheme. The attention was drawn to the front with a lilac backdrop, surrounded by flowers and candles on the floor. While romance was the aim, we still wanted this to tie in with the reception and give guests a taste of what would come. We included white Bangin Hangins, disco balls on alternating aisles, and silver confetti cannons, which signified the end of formalities and led us right into the party. The ceremony highlighted our formal commitment to each other through our love story and personalized vows while still keeping our loved ones laughing and capturing our fun, easy-going personalities.

How They Created a Ceremony That Perfectly Captured Who They Are as a Couple

Aside from throwing one hell of an epic party and dancing all night with all our favorite people in one room, the other highlight must be our ceremony. Looking back, we agree that this perfectly captured who we are as a couple. We introduced our bridal party, explaining why they were important to us and including light-hearted jokes at their expense. We wrote our vows individually; however, by a strange twist of fate, we both expressed our dreams of having children who grow up to be either AFL or Matilda players and that no matter what, the ultimate goal was to grow old and happy together. We agreed to include four promises to each other, two serious and two funny. They had the room laughing and crying precisely as we had hoped—romance with a side of fun.

A Bold Wool Mill Wedding Reception Full of Meaning and Nods to Their Relationship

We always knew we wanted to use the color orange, as this represented our football team where we first met. We found inspirational looks online and loved how lilac perfectly complemented this. The reception space’s key feature and focal point was our bold Bangin Hangins in orange, lilac, and silver. These colors flowed to our tables using alternating orange and lilac personalized menus and napkins, tall, tapered candles, and bright floral arrangements, which all popped on our white tablecloths. The romance was still brought into this space using a sky of fairy lights. Our signage and stationary included puns and jokes to keep it light-hearted and personal, adding to the party atmosphere. The Baker Boys band started early and played all night to ensure guests left with sore feet to go with their even sorer heads (courtesy of our one non-negotiable open bar and cocktails).

Simplifying their Wool Mill Wedding Planning Process by Choosing a Venue with a Wedding Planner

We chose a venue that included a wedding planner, which was invaluable for those who lacked artistic flare and time. We knew we didn’t have the time to commit to hours of research and lacked creativity and vision. We recommend using Pinterest boards to capture the overall vibe and then creating mood boards to tie it together. We also highly recommend asking an artistic friend who loves weddings to bounce ideas off and review all the nitty-gritty, aka floor plans, stationary, etc. We are proud that we pulled off a wedding that was authentically us. We loved the attention to detail, the use of puns, the personalization of menus, and how everyone had a great time. Hearing that people loved our wedding as much as we did means the world to us.

Prioritizing Food and Drinks to Keep Spirits High from Start to Finish at Their Wool Mill Wedding

We ultimately wanted everyone to have a fantastic time, with two of our biggest “must haves” being plenty of food and various drinks. We added extra canapes and late-night snacks to ensure no one left hungry. We also opted for shared plates, as we had experienced at other weddings. This was the best way to ensure people had enough large portions to suit them. We also felt that spirits and cocktails were essential for our loved ones. We opted to extend the hours for our drinks package so that drinks flowed from when our guests arrived to when they left. Luckily, we both ended up being late (stupid Melbourne traffic), but our guests were sufficiently hydrated when we arrived. For the dancefloor, our ‘must have’ was The Baker Boys. We requested fan-favorite songs, and they delivered the ultimate party playlist that even included a roaming saxophone soloist.

Choosing a Blank Canvas Venue to Bring Their Vision to Life

We chose The Wool Mill as it was the perfect blank canvas for us to create something bold and fun. We loved the idea of having our ceremony and reception at one location, but we still wanted to have two distinct spaces. The Wool Mill was perfect for this, with the ceremony and cocktail hour held upstairs before the big reveal at the party, where guests headed downstairs. We also loved that the venue included the wedding planning team from The Goodsmiths, who were able to coordinate all aspects of the day, including catering, styling, and even throwing confetti to ensure we had the perfect photos. We absolutely could not have pulled it off without them.

Personalized Wedding Favors that Double as Decor

We didn’t do wedding favors as such. However, we gave each guest a pair of purple love heart sunglasses, which we used as part of our table decorations. We encouraged our guests to wear these throughout the night, and they have become a feature in many of our photos. We also used GuestPix, which allows guests to upload their pictures to our gallery. We paused momentarily during the night and asked our guests to take selfies in their sunnies and upload them. The coffee table book we have made with those photos is truly amazing.

Choreographing Their Wedding Dance Through TikTok and a Meaningful Song Choice

We looked at having dance lessons due to Jaimi’s two left feet. Upon review of the prices, we hit TikTok and choreographed our own dance. While unsure if it was good, our guests were shocked at our moves, and we laughed silly while practicing in the kitchen. We also absolutely love the photos. We chose our song “I Can’t Help” by our favorite artist, G Flip. The original song was also Jaimi’s parents’ first dance song. We kept this a secret, and they loved it.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Lavender Haze
Event Planning + Invitation Design – The Goodsmiths
Venue – Wool Mill
Floral Design – Anatomy of Flowers
Catering – Refresh Hospitality
Cake – Torte By Mirjana
Officiant – Precious Celebrations
Live Music – The Baker Boys Band
Videography – Dusc Studio
Makeup Artist – Makeup by Lorie
Hair Styling – Renee Presti
Wedding Dresses – Kyha
Accessories – Amelie George + Finnerings
Wedding Party Apparel – Aje. + Pilgrim Clothing + Kookaï + Bec+Bridge
Rings – Charles Rose

 

Congratulations to Jaimi and Mizz on their Wool Mill wedding, which was the definition of a party! A big thank you to Junebug vendor the Lavender Haze for capturing all the unforgettable details and inspiring couples about to tie the knot. Head over to their profile to see more unique celebrations in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

Planning your wedding is your chance to highlight your one-of-a-kind personalities. Whether you’re drawn to a non-traditional venue or looking to modernize classic wedding customs, embrace the opportunity to create a celebration that reflects the uniqueness of your love story. The secret to bringing it all together flawlessly? Surround yourself with visionary pros. Discover your dream team with our curated selection of the world’s top wedding vendors.

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This Nave Lewis Wedding Was an Art Installation Come to Life

July 13, 2024 | justine

Valeria and Erik wanted their wedding to defy tradition. They desired a celebration that was anything but ordinary, and with the help of their vendors, they pulled it off. With a passion for art and architecture, they wanted their big day to reflect that passion. They always imagined their wedding space to look like an art gallery: simple, clean, and elegant. With a historic steel mill turned wedding venue adorned with sculptural arrangements and pared-back decor, their Nave Lewis wedding was an art installation that came to life exactly as they envisioned.

The modernist church provided a stunning backdrop for their ceremony. They adorned the aisle and altar with lush greenery and lavender florals, creating a serene atmosphere. The reception was equally breathtaking, with tables adorned with abundant blooms, greenery, and candles. The highlight of the evening was the backdrop wall adorned with suspended flowers and a glass tube ceiling installation that played with the light, creating a magical dance of illumination throughout the celebration.

If your dream aesthetic leans towards understated sophistication and elevated style, find inspiration in these stunning photos captured by Junebug vendor EFEGE.

The Couple:

Valeria and Erik

The Wedding:

Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Fatima, Nuevo León, Mexico

Celebrating Their Love Through Art and Architecture

Our wedding was inspired by our desire to break away from tradition, blending our love for art, architecture, and intricate details. I envisioned the venue as an art gallery—minimalistic yet elegant—and our choice of a historic steel mill warehouse in our hometown perfectly complemented Erik’s work in the steel industry. We aimed to maintain an industrial vibe by keeping the floor and ceiling visible. For the tables, we couldn’t settle on one design, so we opted for three: an arrangement with anemone flowers, candles, and apples adorned with pearls; an art installation featuring 100 custom ceramic bases and anthurium flowers with pearls for dynamic movement; and a standout light box table engraved with the lyrics of “Arrullo de Estrellas” by Zoe, a cherished song that holds special meaning for us. The venue was adorned with artistic displays of these lyrics, and above us hung a breathtaking installation of 32,000 glass tubes with flowers, casting a mesmerizing glow that completed our vision for an unforgettable celebration.

Heartwarming Moments at Their Nave Lewis Wedding

The most memorable part of the day was sharing every moment with our loved ones. We are both very family-oriented, so the party was an ode to that. After our first dance, we shared a dance with both of our families, but the highlight was sharing it with our nieces and nephews. It was just something that I wanted to experience with them, especially since they are our goddaughters and my favorite people ever.

Achieving Stress-Free Wedding Planning by Staying Organized and Trusting Wedding Planner

My advice would be to get organized and make checklists. Lists were my best friends, as I am very organized and didn’t want to procrastinate and go crazy three weeks before. Also, trust your wedding planner. They are your guide, and with great communication, all you ever dreamed of will be exactly the same. I can’t imagine my wedding without the entire team.

Personal Touches That Elevated the Wedding Experience

I am proud of every detail that tells a story and reflects our personal styles and love for one another. We made thank you cards for every guest to be delivered to their table during dinner. We carefully curated the music with two playlists for the cocktail and dinner to showcase our love for oldies music. Also, not being afraid of breaking the stereotype and doing things differently without caring what people think was very comforting.

Making Every Guest Feel Special with Personalized Tokens

During dinner, we gave thank you cards to everyone. During the party, we gave out neon cowboy hats and glasses, which lit up in different colors. The food never stopped coming, both during the party and after hours. For our guests who were celebrating their birthdays, we put a candle and little wooden balloons on their plates; for our engaged guests, we did the same, but with a wooden ring. For our expecting couples, we put a wooden stork delivering a baby.

The Wedding Team:

Photography + Videography – EFEGE
Event Planning – Gonzalez Helfon
Ceremony Venue – Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Fatima
Reception Venue – Nave Lewis
Catering – Kohlmann
DJ – DJ Gino Rodriguez
Makeup Artist – RODRIGO ESTRELLO
Hair Styling – BETO SOLIS
Wedding Dress – Danielle Frankel Bride
Groom’s Apparel – Gallo Azul
Bathroom Products – The Amenities

 

Congratulations to Valeria and Erik on their Nave Lewis wedding, which was an art installation that came to life. A heartfelt thank you goes out to Junebug vendor EFEGE for beautifully capturing every detail that made their special day unique and unforgettable. For more stunning celebrations, explore their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

A minimalist wedding like this proves that simplicity can be stunning. Its sleek, clean appearance minimizes distractions, allowing the focus to remain on what truly matters—the beautiful union of two people. For more helpful advice on curating a celebration that reflects your style and values, explore our planning and budget guides.

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Eclectic Yet Whimsical Brice House Wedding

July 10, 2024 | justine

Megan and Kaity found the perfect venue, providing them with the ideal starting point for their wedding planning. Inspired by the venue’s classic southern and gothic charm, they infused it with their own whimsical touches. Using jewel tones for their colors, a mix of vintage and modern pieces from thrift stores, and a touch of DIY magic, they brought to life a beautifully eclectic Brice House wedding.

The sprawling estate provided the perfect setting for their big day. For their outdoor ceremony on the front steps, a wooden arbor adorned with florals framed the French Provincial-style main house in the background. At the tented reception, the tablescape was filled with color-blocked blooms and accents, creating a stunning scene. 

While the decor and fashion played a significant role, the couple is most proud of their trusted team. They were intentional in working with diverse vendors and successfully achieved it! To see all the beautiful details up close, browse through these stunning photos taken by photographer Karen Norian. They’ll inspire you with unique wedding ideas for your own special day.

The Couple:

Megan and Kaity

The Wedding:

Brice House, Georgia, United States

Starting the Day with an Intimate Vow Exchange and a Sweet Surprise

We decided to do a private vow exchange on the morning of the wedding. We snuck away in our PJs with nothing but our coffee cups, photographers, and each other. We spent a few minutes exchanging vows and sharing our excitement with each other, and then I surprised Megan with a proposal redo featuring her late grandmother’s wedding set. Megan was so surprised, and it was such a special and sentimental moment to share together before the day officially kicked off.

Blending Personal Touches and Venue Aesthetics

Finding our venue gave us the best starting point for the rest of our planning. The Brice House is a historic home with many classically southern and southern-gothic vibes, so we built on that while adding our own whimsy. We used Pinterest for inspiration and worked with our planner to help us define how we wanted our wedding to feel: romantic, whimsical, and fun. We heard advice early on that we should only purchase decor items we would like to display in our home and then rent or borrow everything else, and we stuck with that plan. An Anthropologie store inspires our home decor, so we looked for items and inspiration that married our personal styles with our intended vibes without overshadowing the venue’s existing beauty.

How They Created Their Eclectic Brice House Wedding

We picked rich jewel tones for our color palette and thrifted a mix of vintage and modern pieces to create this beautifully eclectic setting. Anything we couldn’t find, we made ourselves or borrowed from friends. Ultimately, we are really happy with how everything came out and how our wedding felt so authentically us.

Balancing Details and Budget by Making Strategic Choices

Not every detail needs to be the key focus, or you’ll quickly become overwhelmed and go over budget. We picked three areas that were the most important to us—florals, food, and photography—and tried to keep everything else simple. We spent time on invites, music, decor, etc., but we didn’t let those details stress us out.

Building a Diverse Vendor Team for Their Brice House Wedding

We are really happy with how everything turned out, but ultimately, we are the most proud of the vendor team we put together. Our goal was to hire all diverse vendors—women, veterans, people of color, LGBTQ+, etc. And although it was tough to find the right team since we are a queer couple in a small town in South Georgia, we did it! And we had the best vendors ever.

Candle Table Alternative to Traditional Favors

Instead of traditional favors, we decided to have a candy table with small sachets so guests could pick and take what they wanted. We’ve been to so many weddings where the koozies or custom cups are left behind, and we didn’t want to waste anything or have an extra stockpile in our garage. Our candy table was a huge hit and saved a ton of money.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Karen Norian
Second Photographer – Zach Barron
Event Planning – Moonbeam Weddings
Venue – Brice House
Floral Design – Grace and Thorn
Catering – Berry’s Catering
Cake – Confection Perfection Cakes
DJ – J&M Sound Productions
Invitation Design – Truly Engaging
Makeup + Hair Styling – Morgan Wilson
Wedding Attire – The Sentimentalist
Wedding Party Attire Alterations – White Orchid Bridal
Rings – Gem Breakfast

 

Congratulations to Megan and Kaity on their eclectic yet whimsical Brice House wedding. Many thanks to Karen Norian for capturing every beautiful detail and unforgettable moment. 

An outdoor gathering like this provides endless possibilities for floral arrangements and decorations, perfect for both the ceremony and reception. Whether you opt for a backyard setting or a garden venue, explore our guide on hosting an outdoor wedding to help plan the celebration of your dreams.

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Your Comprehensive Guide to Planning a New Orleans Wedding

July 9, 2024 | riley
new orleans wedding second line parade

Image by Lyndsey Goddard

New Orleans is a city overflowing with vibrant culture, rich history, delicious food, and an enchanting charm–so it’s not hard to see why so many couples choose it as a wedding destination. From the historic French Quarter to serene gardens and grand ballrooms, there’s something for every couple looking to tie the knot in this captivating city. From venue options to vendors who can help bring your dream day to life to New Orleans wedding traditions you’re going to want to include, we’re breaking down everything there is to know about tying the knot in The Big Easy.

Wedding Venues in New Orleans

Historic Mansions and Estates

Elms Mansion – Nestled in the Garden District, this 1869 mansion boasts stunning Italianate architecture and beautifully manicured gardens, making it the perfect venue for those seeking an outdoor wedding.

Race + Religious – This three-building historic estate is a mix of whimsical indoor spaces and brick courtyards overflowing with greenery. Tie the knot by the courtyard pool before partying under the night sky (after your classic second-line parade, of course).

Marigny Opera House – Built in 1847, the Marigny Opera House started as a church before it was burnt down and rebuilt in 1853. It wasn’t until 1999 that the former church was turned into the Opera House that it is today. Now, it is arguably one of the most beautiful wedding venues in the country, thanks to its old-world charm.

Hotels and Ballrooms

Le Pavillon Hotel – Situated in the heart of downtown NOLA, this 1907 hotel has all the charm you’d expect to find in a New Orleans hotel. Exchanging vows in one of their beautiful ballrooms will have you feeling like you traveled back in time.

The Barnett – Formerly known as the Ace New Orleans, this art deco hotel is quintessential New Orleans. It’s bursting with character, eclectic decor, and restaurants serving only the best Southern food. And the best part? Your guests can stay on the property with you.

new orleans pharmacy museum wedding

Image by Yana B.

Unique Spaces

New Orleans Pharmacy Museum – A pharmacy museum may not be at the top of everyone’s minds when it comes to wedding venues, but this gorgeous historic landmark provides the perfect opulent New Orleans party ambiance for your big day. And it’s only a couple blocks away from Jackson Square, where you can take stunning portraits with your significant other.

French Quarter Wedding Chapel – One of our favorite parts about the city is the unconventional venue options ideal for those looking for something outside the box–like the French Quarter Wedding Chapel. It’s the only wedding chapel in the French Quarter, is open 24/7, and features vintage furniture, elegant chandeliers, and dollar bills hanging from the ceilings.

Brennan’s – Foodies looking for a venue for their intimate affair, look no further than Brennan’s. The restaurant is a James Beard Outstanding Restaurant finalist, was named one of CN Traveler’s best restaurants in the world, and is known as the birthplace of bananas foster. Oh, and did we mention that the decor is the epitome of romantic?

New Orleans Wedding Photographer Highlight

Choosing the right vendors is one of the most challenging parts. With so many professionals out there who are wildly talented at what they do, how are you supposed to know which one is right for you? We want to highlight a Junebug photographer who we think is absolutely incredible. 

Matthew Foster Photography

Review: “Matt and Liz are a terrifically talented and dynamic photography duo. We would hire them again without hesitation and would also encourage anyone reading this review to STOP your search and HIRE THEM!  From the planning process to the event itself, Matt and Liz were attentive, accommodating, professional and very comfortable to be around. They captured so many special moments and expressions.  We are truly thrilled with all aspects of their work: details, getting ready, first look, wedding, and reception photos. They even managed to capture great images of our very large families with speed and ease. Thank you, Matt and Liz, you were a fabulous addition to our wedding experience.”

New Orleans Wedding Traditions

Cake pulls – Dating back to the Victorian era, cake pulls are very similar to bouquet tosses. Silver charms are connected to the end of a ribbon and placed between layers of the wedding cake. Before the cake is cut, those who are single in the bridal party are invited to pull a ribbon. Each charm has its own meaning (i.e., who will get married next, who will experience good luck, etc.) and acts as a keepsake for those who pull it.

Shop cake pulls: 20 Piece Traditional Style Cake Pulls; 2. Individual Cake Pull Bracelets; 3. Gold Luxe Pearl Beaded Cake Pulls

Second line parade – This iconic New Orleans tradition features a brass band leading the wedding party and guests from the ceremony to the reception, complete with parasols and handkerchiefs for dancing in the streets. It’s a fun way to incorporate New Orleans culture and give strangers a chance to wish you good luck as you begin your journey as newlyweds.

Mule-drawn carriage – Not in the mood to parade down the street? Consider a mule-drawn carriage instead. Or, incorporate a carriage ride as your grand exit. No matter how you choose to go about it, it’s a fun way to see the city and enjoy some romantic one-on-one time together.

Dance troupes – New Orleans is known for its music and dancing, so it’s no surprise that it’s tradition to hire dance troupes to get a reception started. These professional dancers are a surefire way to keep guests entertained and keep them on the dance floor.

Local Cuisine and Drinks

Food and drink are central to any New Orleans celebration. Incorporate these local flavors and specialties to delight your guests:

  • Cajun and Creole cuisine – Treat your guests to dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish étouffée to showcase the city’s culinary heritage.
  • Seafood – Fresh Gulf shrimp, oysters, and crab are must-haves, reflecting the region’s coastal bounty.
  • Signature cocktails – Serve iconic New Orleans drinks such as the Sazerac, Hurricane, and French 75, along with locally brewed beers and refreshing mint juleps.
  • Street vendors – One walk around the city, and you’ll find countless street vendors. To bring them into your celebration, consider hiring one (or multiple) for a late-night snack.

Other Ways to Incorporate NOLA Culture into Your Big Day

Customized invitations – Use designs featuring New Orleans’ iconic elements like wrought-iron balconies, jazz instruments, or fleur-de-lis motifs.

Shop New Orleans-inspired wedding invitations: Hand-Drawn New Orleans Editable Wedding Invitations; 2. Watercolor New Orleans Destination Invitations; 3. Custom City Map Save the Date; 4. Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler French Quarter Wedding Invitation

Memorable favors – Give guests a taste of the city with favors like pralines, mini bottles of hot sauce, or custom Mardi Gras masks. If you’re hosting a destination wedding, consider adding a few of these to a welcome bag!

A New Orleans wedding is a celebration of love, life, music, and culture. The city’s unique ambiance will create lasting memories for you and your guests. Whether you’re drawn by the historic charm, lively culture, or delectable cuisine, New Orleans provides a magical setting for your special day. Ready to hire vendors for your Louisiana celebration? Be sure to check out Junebug’s vendor directory, which has hundreds of talented professionals who are sure to fit your needs. 

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7 Fall Wedding Groom Attire Ideas That Are Perfect for the Season

July 6, 2024 | kailey
fall groom attire example

Image by Dani Purington

While we’ll always love the classic black and white tux, we love that grooms are ditching the traditional looks for something a little more unique. We are firm believers that everyone should be able to showcase their personalities on their big day, and lucky for fall grooms, there are a few ways to showcase just that. 

If you’re hoping to lean into the season for your autumnal celebration, we’ve rounded up a few fall wedding groom attire ideas. From wool suits to fall-inspired patterns, here are just a few of our favorites that we’ve seen real grooms wear on their wedding day. And, of course, keep in mind these unique style ideas aren’t just for men. They’re for anyone to don a suit on their big day. 

Fall Wedding Groom Attire Ideas

1. Colorful Suits 

When you think of fall wedding colors, chances are that moody reds, rustic oranges, and deep teals come to mind. These color palettes can be used as inspiration for your wedding invitations, decor, and florals. But wedding fashion can be added to that list. Trade the classic black suit for colorful fall pieces in those same colors, and you’ll automatically look like you match the season. 

Recommended reading: The Dreamy Unconventional Colorful Suit Roundup

2. Mix And Match Different Patterns 

Plaid is often considered the pattern of fall. But those looking to spice up their wedding day look have a variety of different pattern options to choose from—think argyle, houndstooth, and even florals. There are endless patterned shirts, suits, and ties that can add just a pop of personality to a classic fall look if you’re looking to keep things more traditional. 

3. Play Around With Textures And Materials 

If you’re looking to stay warm while also looking sharp, you can play around with different materials and textures for your wedding look. Try out fabrics like wool, tweed, and velvet. These thicker fabrics not only look great in photos, but they also have the added bonus of helping you brave the cool fall weather. 

4. Ties, Bow Ties, and Bolo Ties  

Your wedding day attire is important, but don’t underestimate the power of accessorizing. Your choice of neckwear can play a big role in tying your whole day-of outfit together. For fall grooms sticking with the more traditional tie or bow tie, consider working with different colors, patterns, and materials. For unconventional grooms looking to switch things up in a subtle way, ditch tradition for a unique bolo tie. 

Shop ties, bow ties, and bolo ties:

Image by Julieta Rabadan

5. Top Off Your Look With A Hat

There’s a common misconception that grooms have limited options when it comes to accessorizing, and that couldn’t be further from the truth. To set your style apart and, try topping off your wedding day look with a trendy wide-brim hat. This look is especially great for those tying the knot in the desert or forest.

Shop hats:

Recommended reading: Fashion-Forward Wedding Hats We Can’t Get Enough Of

6. Seasonal Foliage Boutonniere 

Small details can make a big impact—and this rings true for boutonnieres. Fall grooms have the opportunity to play around with different colors and seasonal foliage to create a unique seasonal addition to their wedding day outfit. 

To help you feel your best on your big day, check out these unique boutonniere ideas. 

Image by Alex Mabrey

7. All Black

If you’re tying the knot close to Halloween or you’re just leaning into the gothic theme that seems to be growing increasingly popular, we love it when grooms wear all black. Not only is it timeless, but it also looks unbelievably sleek in photos.

From colorful suits to seasonal boutonnieres, there are many different ways for grooms to spice up their wedding day look. If you’re looking to wow your guests regardless of the season, check out these unique groom style ideas.

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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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