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A Classic and Minimalist Tuscany Wedding Among the Olive Groves of Artimino

June 20, 2026 | justine

Before there was an Artimino wedding surrounded by olive groves and Tuscan sunsets, there was a DM.

Four years ago, Daniel sent Yasmin a message. Since then, they haven’t gone a single day without talking. Their first date happened in secret on June 16, 2020, a date that later became their lucky number. Less than two weeks later, Daniel asked her to be his girlfriend.

“I brought the chaos; he brought the calm,” Yasmin says of their relationship.

A rainy-night proposal in Paris eventually led them to Tuscany, where they gathered their closest family and friends for a celebration filled with good food, good wine, and sweeping countryside views. 

What We Love About This Artimino Wedding:

  • Yasmin’s decision to walk down the aisle alone
  • Olive grove views and a terrace dinner overlooking the Tuscan countryside
  • A brief rain shower that turned into an unforgettable sunset
  • A tenor performance that left more than a few guests emotional
  • A live Italian wedding cake presentation prepared by the chef

A Clear Vision Made Every Decision Easier

Although they waited two years before fully diving into wedding planning due to finishing college and relocating from São Paulo back to Sergipe, most of the major decisions had already been made. They knew how many guests they wanted, the type of celebration they envisioned, and even the country where they wanted it to take place.

“We had already defined everything in a moodboard: ideas, number of guests, country, and the style of the ceremony.” That clarity removed much of the guesswork. With support from Annaisa and Luiza of Favola Events, the couple was able to focus on bringing those plans together instead of constantly revisiting decisions.

Yasmin credits the planning team with helping them find trusted vendors and keeping the process organized from beginning to end.

A Solo Walk Down the Aisle Became One of the Day’s Most Memorable Moments

Ask Yasmin about the most memorable moment from the ceremony, and her answer comes quickly. Walking down the aisle alone. She says it was the moment that stood out most, not only for her but for many of their guests as well.

Music was another place where the couple decided to do things a little differently. Instead of using Mendelssohn’s Wedding March for the processional, they saved it for their exit as newlyweds. The unexpected choice made the recessional feel even more memorable.

White flowers lined the aisle, greenery framed the altar, and the surrounding views of the olive groves and village chapel provided a setting that needed very little else.

Featured Vendor:
The Alms Brand

Olive Grove Views and a Sunset Terrace Dinner Sealed the Deal

The couple wanted an outdoor ceremony location, flexible accommodations, and a setting that worked well for an intimate guest count. Artimino offered all three. Choosing the venue also meant exchanging vows with views of the olive groves and historic chapel that first captured Yasmin’s attention. Later, guests moved to the terrace for dinner beneath a ceiling adorned with a remarkable painted fresco.

Their Artimino wedding design stayed true to the couple’s minimalist vision. White flowers, seasonal greenery, candlelight, and personalized paper goods created an elegant look that complemented the surroundings rather than competing with them. The only surprise came from the weather. “I have to admit, I was a little scared, haha.”

A brief rain shower rolled through before clearing away entirely. What followed was one of the most beautiful sunsets of the weekend, turning what initially felt like a concern into one of the day’s highlights.

Dinner and a Show Turned Into the Evening’s Biggest Surprise

After the ceremony, Yasmin and Daniel spent time taking portraits before heading to the bar, where Aperol spritzes, Negronis, and an impressive cheese display were waiting.

Dinner brought some of the evening’s most emotional moments. The couple arranged for a tenor performance during the meal, and the reaction from guests was immediate. By the end, there were plenty of teary eyes around the table.

Later, guests gathered to watch the chef prepare a traditional Italian wedding cake as part of a live show-cooking experience. Combined with the music, the food, and the setting, it became exactly the kind of evening Yasmin and Daniel had hoped to share with the people closest to them.

A Smaller Guest List Allowed Room for Bigger Priorities

Because the wedding was intentionally intimate, the couple approached their budget differently. Rather than trying to include every trend or extra, they focused on the elements they knew would have the biggest impact on the experience: the location, the food, the drinks, the entertainment, and the vendor team.

Dessert stations, ice cream carts, and similar additions never made the final list because they simply weren’t necessary for the celebration they had in mind.

It’s easy to feel like every wedding needs every extra. Yasmin and Daniel’s celebration is a good reminder that a smaller guest list often makes decision-making easier because you’re able to focus on the parts of the day guests will actually remember.

Every Choice Came Back to the Same Priorities

Yasmin and Daniel spent two years planning their wedding, but not because they struggled to make decisions. Most of the big ones had already been made. They knew they wanted an intimate celebration in Tuscany. They knew they cared more about great food and music than wedding extras. And they knew they wanted the weekend to feel relaxed and enjoyable for both themselves and their guests.

Their advice to other couples is simple: don’t plan a wedding based on what everyone else is doing. Choose the details that mean something to you and work with vendors you trust. Looking back at the weekend, from the welcome dinner letters to the olive grove ceremony and sunset reception, that’s exactly what they did.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – The Alms Brand
Event Planning – Favola Events
Ceremony Venue – Artimino
Reception Venue + Catering + Cake – Galateo
Desserts – La Confetteria Firenze
Floral Design – Jardin Divers
DJ – Simone Borth
Live Music – Kaleydo
Videography – Fernanda Bellucci
Invitation Design – Estúdio Cravo & Canela
Makeup + Hair Styling – Dico Moreira
Wedding Dress – FASÔ por Sa Fasolari
Bridal Accessories – Vitoria Cabaleiro + Guadalupe Joias + Alexandre Birman
Flower Girls + Ring Bearers Attire – Laçarotte Damas e Pajens
Groom’s Apparel – Boss
Groom’s Accessories – Boss +  Zegna
Rings – Cartier

 

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A Modern, Textured Alt-Bridal Editorial at Calgary’s Fortuna’s Row

June 18, 2026 | justine

When Junebug vendor OM Wedding Storytelling began planning this modern romantic styled shoot, the goal was surprisingly simple: create something different.

Photographer Olga Martinez wanted to move away from the wedding inspiration she was seeing around her and create a look that felt modern, romantic, slightly vintage, and a little unexpected. She started with the idea of an alternative bride and built the shoot one detail at a time. The jewelry. The dress. The braid. The flowers. Each element was chosen individually, with the hope that everything would somehow come together in the end.

What she didn’t expect was where those choices would lead. Once the shoot was finished, Olga looked at the images and immediately saw something familiar. “When I saw the result it was to my surprise that the shoot screamed Mexico! My homeland. Little did I know that I was doing a homage. My roots have spoken.” Without planning it, she had created a modern romantic styled shoot that reflected the colors, textures, architecture, and feeling of home.

What We Love About This Fortuna’s Row Wedding Inspiration:

  • The dramatic braid that became a recurring design detail throughout the shoot
  • Rich red florals that bring energy to an otherwise neutral palette
  • A wedding cake inspired directly by the textures of the bridal gown
  • Fashion choices that feel editorial while remaining bridal
  • The warm, modern atmosphere created by Fortuna’s Row

Featured Vendor:
OM Storytelling

The Unexpected Inspiration Behind This Fortuna’s Row Wedding Inspiration

One of the most interesting parts of this shoot is that it wasn’t inspired by a specific destination, trend, or color palette. Instead, Olga followed her instincts.

She was drawn to opulent jewelry, feminine details, textured fabrics, and a color palette of warm neutrals accented with bold red florals. Looking at each element on its own, the connection wasn’t obvious. But once everything came together, the inspiration revealed itself.

The long braid became one of the strongest threads throughout the design. It appeared not only in the model’s hairstyle but also in the floral installation and tablescape. The warm earth tones echoed the venue’s architecture, while the red roses added just enough color to catch the eye.

The finished result reminded Olga of the modern, design-forward spaces found throughout parts of Mexico, especially places like Oaxaca and Tulum.

For couples, it’s a good reminder that wedding inspiration doesn’t always have to come from Pinterest. Sometimes the most meaningful ideas come from places, memories, and experiences that already feel familiar.

How Collaboration Elevated Every Detail of This Fortuna’s Row Wedding Inspiration

Although Olga developed the initial concept, she knew the shoot would only work if she found the right team to help bring it to life. She intentionally looked for vendors who weren’t afraid to think outside the box while still creating something elegant and approachable. “The styled shoot itself is a sum of the talents and creations of everyone involved.”

She had worked with designer Sofia Fasado before and knew she could help refine the tablescape and fashion styling. Florist Lauren of Hanako Studio was someone she had admired for some time, and her floral designs ended up becoming one of the standout elements of the shoot. Cake artist Raman of Veeri Cakes transformed inspiration from the gown into edible artwork, while model Vinasa brought exactly the energy Olga had envisioned from the start.

The Design Details That Tied Everything Together

Although the color palette stayed relatively neutral, the shoot never felt plain. Much of that came down to texture. The dress featured intricate details and layered fabrics. The flowers combined soft grass with rich red roses. The concrete walls and natural materials throughout the venue added warmth without competing for attention. 

Even the cake borrowed details from the gown itself. “The cake being inspired by the dress’s textural depth; the venue being a Latin restaurant with these earth colors and concrete walls. Everything is a full circle.”

Rather than relying on lots of colors or elaborate decor, the team focused on repeating small details throughout the design. Those subtle connections helped the entire shoot feel cohesive.

The Statement Dress That Influenced the Entire Design

The bridal fashion played a bigger role in this shoot than simply dressing the model. Olga knew from the beginning that she wanted something different from a traditional wedding gown. She had followed Colombian designer Maxime of Sagradesa for years and admired the brand’s use of texture and unconventional silhouettes. The dress quickly became one of the shoot’s biggest sources of inspiration.

Details from the gown later influenced the cake design, while its romantic texture balanced the modern feel of the venue. It helped set the tone for everything else that followed. When model Vinasa finally stepped into the completed look, the vision that had existed only in Olga’s mind suddenly became real. “The outcome of the model. When I saw her with the hair extensions and the dress my eyes watered a little bit.” It was one of those moments every creative hopes for when months of planning finally come together.

A Venue That Offered a Different Perspective on Latin Design

Finding the right venue was another important part of the puzzle. When Olga discovered Fortuna’s Row, she immediately connected with its modern interiors, warm earth tones, and understated architecture. It felt rich without being overly decorative and minimal without feeling cold. What she loved most was how closely it reflected the kind of contemporary design often found in parts of Latin America. “This is very similar to what we have in Mexico, especially in places like Oaxaca and Tulum.”

The venue also offered plenty of flexibility for the creative team. When the original location for the tablescape didn’t provide the lighting they hoped for, the florist, designer, and photographer made a last-minute decision to move everything into the main salon. The change ended up improving the final result.

Of course, there were a few other challenges along the way. Temperatures reached a chilly -20 degrees Celsius on the morning of the shoot, and the bridal shoes arrived only the night before. But like many wedding days, a few unexpected hurdles became part of the story.

What began as a simple desire to create something new became something much more personal. Through fashion, florals, architecture, and thoughtful details, this modern romantic styled shoot became a reflection of Olga’s creative vision and a reminder that the ideas that resonate most are often the ones closest to home.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – OM Storytelling
Venue – Fortuna´s Row
Floral Design – Hanako Studio
Styling + Table Design – Sofia Fosado
Cake – Veeri Cakes
Invitation Design – Seeking Light Studio
Makeup Artist – Nicole Saxton
Hair Styling – Jessie Liao
Wedding Dress – Sagradesa
Model – Vinasa Lucella

 

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The Ultimate Guide to the Mother of the Bride Speech

June 17, 2026 | justine

Read on to learn how to write a meaningful mother of the bride speech, what to include, what to avoid, and get inspired by five speech examples. Image by Julie Pepin Photography

Few wedding moments are as emotional as a mother of the bride speech. It’s a chance to celebrate your daughter, welcome her partner into the family, and share your excitement for the life they’re building together.

The good news? There isn’t one perfect way to give a wedding toast. Some are heartfelt and emotional. Others are funny and lighthearted. Some are just a few minutes long, while others tell a longer story. What matters most is that the speech sounds like you.

Whether you’re starting with a blank page or simply looking for inspiration, this guide covers everything you need to know—from what to include and common pitfalls to avoid to five examples you can use as inspiration.

What Should a Mother of the Bride Speech Include?

Every mother of the bride speech will be unique, but most memorable toasts include a few key elements:

  1. A warm welcome and thank you to guests. Start by acknowledging the friends and family who have gathered to celebrate the couple.
  2. A meaningful memory or story about the bride. Choose a story that highlights her personality, values, or the person she’s become.
  3. Recognition of the person she is today. Weddings are about more than childhood memories. Take time to celebrate the qualities you admire most in your daughter.
  4. A welcome to her partner. Share a few words about the relationship you’ve watched grow and how happy you are to welcome them into your family.
  5. Hopes and well wishes for their future. Offer your encouragement as they begin this next chapter together.
  6. A closing toast. End by inviting guests to raise a glass to the newlyweds.

Don’t feel like you need to include every element. Use the pieces that feel most natural for your relationship and story.

Tips for Writing a Mother of the Bride Speech

  • Speak from the heart. The best speeches sound genuine. Focus on sharing your honest thoughts and feelings rather than trying to impress the room.
  • Keep it positive. A wedding speech should celebrate the couple and the occasion. Choose stories that leave guests smiling.
  • Choose quality over quantity. You don’t need to summarize your daughter’s entire life. One meaningful story often has more impact than several rushed anecdotes.
  • Practice beforehand. Reading your speech aloud a few times will help you feel more comfortable and confident.
  • Pause if you get emotional. It’s completely normal to tear up. Take a breath, gather yourself, and continue when you’re ready.

A Few Things to Avoid in Your Mother of the Bride Speech

  • Making the speech too long
  • Sharing inside jokes most guests won’t understand
  • Mentioning former relationships
  • Telling embarrassing stories that could make the couple uncomfortable
  • Giving too much advice
  • Reading directly from your phone
  • Forgetting to acknowledge your daughter’s partner

When in doubt, keep the focus on celebrating the couple and the joy of the day.

5 Mother of the Bride Speech Examples

Not sure where to start? These examples show a few different approaches—from heartfelt and sentimental to funny and concise. Use them as inspiration, then personalize them with your own memories and stories.

Heartfelt Mother of the Bride Speech Example

“Good evening, everyone. Thank you for joining us to celebrate this wonderful day.

From the moment I became [Bride’s Name]’s mother, I knew my life had changed forever. Watching her grow into the thoughtful, compassionate, and confident woman she is today has been one of the greatest joys of my life.

Seeing the happiness she has found with [Partner’s Name] fills me with so much gratitude. Together, they bring out the best in one another, and it’s clear they have built a relationship rooted in love, friendship, and respect.

[Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name], I wish you a lifetime of laughter, adventure, and unwavering support. Please join me in raising a glass to the happy couple.”

Funny Mother of the Bride Speech Example

“Good evening, everyone.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about [Bride’s Name], it’s that she’s always known exactly what she wants. As a child, she had strong opinions about everything, from what she wore to what we ate for dinner. Let’s just say negotiating with her was excellent preparation for life.

Thankfully, one of the best decisions she’s ever made was choosing [Partner’s Name]. Watching the two of them together has been a joy. They make each other laugh, support each other through challenges, and genuinely enjoy being together.

So here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and finding someone who happily agrees to watch your favorite shows for the hundredth time. Cheers!”

Succinct Mother of the Bride Speech Example

“Thank you all for being here today.

[Bride’s Name], I am so proud of the person you’ve become and so grateful to have had the privilege of being your mother. [Partner’s Name], we’re thrilled to welcome you into our family.

May your marriage be filled with love, laughter, and countless happy memories. Please raise a glass to the newlyweds.”

Sentimental Mother of the Bride Speech Example

“It feels like yesterday that I was holding [Bride’s Name]’s hand as we crossed the street, and now I have the honor of watching her begin this new chapter of her life.

Being your mother has been one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever received. I’ve watched you face challenges with strength, celebrate victories with humility, and care for others with a generous heart.

Today, seeing you standing beside the person you love most, I couldn’t be happier. May you always find comfort in one another, celebrate life’s joys together, and face every challenge as a team.

To [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name], cheers to a beautiful future.”

Mother of the Bride Speech Example Featuring a Meaningful Quote

“‘The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.’ — Audrey Hepburn.

That quote reminds me so much of [Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name]. Through every season of life, they have supported one another, encouraged one another, and chosen one another.

As a mother, there is nothing more comforting than seeing your child loved so completely and so well.

[Bride’s Name] and [Partner’s Name], may you continue to hold onto each other through every adventure, challenge, and celebration that comes your way.

Please join me in raising a glass to the happy couple.”

Image by Jess Palatucci

If there’s one thing to remember, it’s that there are no hard-and-fast rules for a mother of the bride speech. It can be funny, sentimental, brief, or deeply personal. You can read from note cards, tell a favorite story, share a meaningful quote, or simply speak from the heart.

Rather than worrying about saying the perfect thing, focus on what you want your daughter and her partner to hear on their wedding day. A favorite memory, a few words about the people they’ve become, or your hopes for their future together is often more than enough.

Whether your toast lasts two minutes or five, your words will be one of the memories the couple carries with them long after the wedding day is over.

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