Best.Day.Ever.

These words followed Lauren and I throughout our entire planning…9 months of engagement and 2 months of “pre-engagement”. She was reminded daily that however things ended up and whatever decisions we made, everything would lead to her best day.

She wanted a clean, modern space for an intimate wedding. We chose Greenhouse Loft, in Chicago, for it’s excellent layout, flexible owners (who also photographed the day), and their “green” approach to everything, including composting all flowers and food, reclaimed wood floors, and organic soy candles.

Lauren works in furniture design, so fabric was a crucial element to her vision. Coral zigzag runners were custom made for the day, complemented by assorted white vases filled with wildflowers in corals, yellows, and whites (done by A New Leaf). Long farmhouse tables sported the runners, along with clean white tablecloths and napkins. Round tables with crisp white linens and coral napkins rounded out the decor. Everything was fun, but complemented the timeless elegance of the day.

I couldn’t be happier for Lauren & Aaron and I have zero doubt that a lifetime of happiness is headed their way. Congrats again and thanks for letting me be part of your day! xoxoxo.

Lust vs. Life

I have been helping one of my bride’s with some emergency outfit work for the past few weeks. Shoes have been a contentious issue! She wants beautiful and special designer shoes (I mean, what girl doesn’t?!), but the practicality of life is that she went over her budget a bit on the dress, so shoes need to be a compromise. As a planner, I always suggest concentrating on the dress over the shoes…it’s what you’ll be photographed in for life. Your shoes will be hidden most of the day and you’ll most likely be barefoot by dinner anyways! We’ve been scouring the internet for shoes that are beautiful and classic, but don’t come with a mean price tag. Here are some of our favorite “get it for less” looks! Happy shopping 🙂

$745 (Valentino) vs. $150 (Bibi Lou at BHLDN)


 

 

 

 

 

$945 (Manolo Blahnik) vs. $215 (Badgley Mischka)


 

 

 

 

 

$695 (Jimmy Choo) vs $79 (Nine West)

Flowerless Bouquets

Miranda Lambert sparked a trend when she decided to eschew wedding floral tradition and carry a bouquet of brooches down the isle. Flowerless bouquets can add a personal touch to your big day and the DIY element can save you money!  When planning your wedding, you are free to be as creative as you like! Think outside the flowers and let your imagination run wild.

Photo Credit: Southern Bride

There are many ways to think outside the flowers when it comes to your bouquet. Planning a rustic outdoor wedding? Incorporating natural elements like wheat or cotton can make a stunning bouquet or boutonniere .

Photo Credit: Jasmine Star

Planning a theme wedding? From buttons to butterflies, a whimsical bouquet can convey a wedding theme in a unique and subtle way.

Photo Credit: Lilfish Studios

Photo Credit: Martha Stewart

Get creative! The possibilities are endless.

xo