Smitten Magazine / Volume 5 by Smitten Magazine

THE

BOUDOIR

ELIZABETH MESSINA

ACCESSORIES

MAR / APR

SMITTEN

WELCOME

TO OUR ACCESSORIES

ISSUE!

IN THIS ISSUE/

march + april

IDEAS SIGNATURE DRINK

PRICKLY PEAR LEMONADE – YUM!

DIY BOUQUET TYING

57 162

8 EASY STEPS TO YOUR DREAM BOUQUET

162

EDITOR PICKS BRIDAL BOOK BREAKDOWN

156

OUR FAVES AND INDUSTRY GO-TO'S

. 156

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IN THIS ISSUE

10 124

GET INSPIRED INTO THE BOUDOIR

SECRETS OF ELIZABETH MESSINA'S MOST INTIMATE SHOOTS

AISLE STYLE

124

ANATOMY OF A BOUQUET

110

SHOES, SHOES, SHOES!

OUR MUCH-LOVED FEATURE IS BACK FOR SPRING

GOOD TO KNOW ETIQUETTE MADE EASY

ALL ABOUT ACCESSORIES

110

DON'T STRESS–WE HAVE THE ANSWERS

4 SHOPS TO KNOW ABOUT

DESTINATION DISCOVERED SEA ISLAND, GEORGIA

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106

78 58

EDITOR´S L ET t e R

DELL A MACNIC HOL AS CO-F OUNDER & EDITOR -IN-C HIEF

Spring has finally sprung! It's such a honor to introduce Smitten's fifth issue — one that's brimming with inspiration galore to rev your matrimonial imaginations. Prepare to be dazzled by our focus on accessories — a handpicked who's who of designers who are paving the way for bridal accessories, like Copenhagen-based headpiece designer Jannie Baltzer and the ever-whimsical genius behind Twigs & Honey, Myra Callan. We move from the accessories drawer to the boudoir with our up-close-and-personal bedroom session with the legendary Elizabeth Messina (who also happens to be the one most gracious people on the planet!). Spring is all about transformation and new beginnings — it's my hope that her stunning boudoir shots will perhaps inspire you to step out of the box and try something new. This issue is incredibly special to me. It was a true honor to work with so many creative, innovative trendsetters in the industry. The Smitten team makes me blush. It's humbling to work with such a talented, driven group of people. Throughout the process of producing this magazine, I find myself in genuine disbelief of their tireless effort to create our much-loved Look Book of Wedding Fancy. This month, and every month, I give my sincerest gratitude to Becky Hoppmann, Creative Director; Claire Keys, Senior Writer and Editor; and Leigh Webber, Lead Photographer. Ladies, you are amazing! And finally, a very special thanks to Richard Israel for my fabulous new headshot. Cheers to the season — inspiration is in full bloom!

HAVE WE MET? From photo shoots to fashion picks, INSIDE SMITTEN gives you an exclusive look into the Smitten team and the talent we showcase. When you see this graphic, one simple click takes you behind-the-scenes. (Swooning yet?)

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BEC KY HOPPMANN CO-F OUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

THE TEAM

CL AIRE E. KEYS

LEIGH WEBBER

LINDSEY NOWAK

EMILIE DULLES

SENIO R W R I T E R + E D I T O R

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

STYLE EDITOR

DULLES DESIGNS

ANNE BOWEN

REBECC A DEW STEMS

MEGAN ABIGAIL C HANDLER , WRITER

CAIT BARNETT

STEMS

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WRITER

ELIZABETH MESSINA

OF KISS THE GROOM

our FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR

E L I Z A B E T H M E S S I N A I S , AT H E A RT, A N A RT I S T A N D A T R U E R O M A N T I C , R E N O W N E D T H E W O R L D O V E R F O R H E R S T U N N I N G P H O T O G R A P H Y. D E V O T E D T O B R I N G I N G A L I T T L E M O R E S W E E T N E S S A N D B E A U T Y I N T O T H E W O R L D , S H E P O S S E S S E S A N I N N AT E ABILITY TO CAPTURE EMOTION IN REAL TIME.

Messina's work has graced the pages of numerous books and magazines, including Town and Country, Grace Ormond, InStyle, Elegant Bride, among countless others. Her iconic images have also appeared on Oprah, Entertainment Tonight, the Oxygen Channel and the Fine Living Network. Messina's body of work has earned her numerous accolades, among them recognition as a Top 25 Trendsetter by Modern Bride and one of the top ten wedding photographers in the world by American Photo. In addition to her legendary work as a photographer, Messina is the author of the award-winning blog, Kiss the Groom, and her newly-published book, The Luminous Portrait. At home in California, Messina is mom to three children — Kela, Malik and Jasmine — and a selfprofessed chocolate lover. When she's not busy inspiring the world, you can find her relaxing in her house, which is full of laughter, lemonade, kisses and photographs... lots of photographs.

... visit Messina’s feature on page 12

...

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IN THIS ISSUE 30

REAL WEDDINGS MEGHAN + ANDREW

JENICA + RILEY

ARYN + JACOB

LINDSEY + SAMEER

COURTNEY + JACK

130

BOWDRE + ROB

142

COVER LOVE BY

ELIZABETH MESSINA View more of Elizabeth's amazing work at...

ElizabethMessina.com and her blog...

kissthegroom.com 8

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Into

THE

Elizabeth Messinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ever-elegant, always-illuminating way with the camera takes the boudoir shoot to new heights.

PHOTOGRAPHY

ELIZABETH MESSINA WRITTEN BY

CLAIRE E. KEYS SMITTEN

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Paging through photographer Elizabeth Messina’s boudoir shots feels a lot like being told a secret. Whispered, not shouted. Beautiful, but also a bit haunting. Yours to keep. “It’s all about — what I like to call — the

her photography, which has become her

sweet underneath,” she explains. “A curve

much-loved, much-mimicked signature.

of a shoulder can be more sexy than, say, a more obvious curve.”

That rare Messina touch — which it seems the whole world has fallen for — has

And curves abound in every frame —

helped elevate the boudoir shoot from a

a hand naturally grazing a hip; a mess

sometimes-seedy, voyeuristic session to

of hair falling over a lace bra; a pair of

something quiet, elegant and undone.

heels and not much else — yet Messina’s photographs never miss the mark. Born

“Boudoir is most alluring when you don’t

in New York, she concentrated on fine art

really see anything too revealing. It’s that

and photojournalism in school before

suggestion of seduction,” she explains,

becoming a full-time wedding photogra-

insisting that it’s not as intimidating (or,

pher (her good friend’s wedding was her

to some, terrifying) as it might seem.

first job). Her studies lent a mix of artful

“Women are beautiful. Any woman could

luminosity and raw documentation to

do boudoir. First and foremost, you have

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How does Messina achieve that hard-to-capture glow? “I think it’s a combination of the way I compose and use light within a frame. I also try to truly connect with my subject… there are moments while I’m shooting when I can feel that something really wonderful is happening.”

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to choose a photographer who makes you feel comfortable. And second, it really helps to have a private space.” With countless wedding photo shoots under her belt, Messina recognizes many brides’ temptation to include loved ones in most every experience. But inside the bedroom, she insists that a closed-door policy is best. “It’s hard to fully relax if your fiancé or bridesmaids or mother is nearby,” she says. “Choose a very private space and be sure there’s a lot of soft, natural light. It’s especially flattering.” What makes Messina’s boudoir photographs so mesmerizing is that they don’t feel like photographs; they feel like real moments, not to be seen by just anyone — dabbing on a bit of lip rouge; playfully peeking out from beneath a quilt; stretching after just waking from a deep sleep. Be it for a fiancé or for the bride herself, Messina says her boudoir images make for a unique wedding keepsake, playing to a woman's sexuality and capturing a more truthful sense of spirit. (Again, that sweet underneath.) Of course, lingerie or tasteful nudity works well for the concept, but Messina assures that it’s not a must: “If you aren’t into lingerie, don’t force it. A simple robe can do the trick. The more comfortable and authentic you feel, the more the images will reflect your natural beauty. Remember, less is more.” And less is beautiful. CLAIRE E. KEYS

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THE GUEST LIST to plus one or not?

THE QUESTION LOOMS OVER SOME BETROTHED COUPLES MORE THAN OTHERS. AS YOU WORK THROUGH ONE OF THE MOST CRUCIAL, COST-AFFECTING, EMOTIONALLY-CHARGED PHASES OF THE PLANNING PROCESS, FEAR NOT — WE'VE GOT SOME WISDOM TO IMPART. B Y O UR ETIQUETTE EXPERT / EMILIE DULLES

MAR / APR

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PHOTOGRAPHY / LEIGH WEBBER

GOOD to KNOW SMITTEN

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I often tell my couples that the guest list is one of the most challenging tasks they will have to tackle between getting engaged and becoming man and wife. Each parent or family member contributing financially to the wedding should have the opportunity to invite a proportional number of people within reason. It goes without saying that there are certain family members that will be invited regardless of venue size or budget. In the case of large or blended families, many couples face the realization that the majority of the guest list is filled with close family and must be invited relatives, which may not leave room for as many friends to be included as originally anticipated. THAT’S WHEN I HEAR –

“Do I have to ‘and guest’ all of my single friends?” As with most points in etiquette, I often answer “it depends.” Etiquette is a set of guidelines for gracious interactions meant to make us feel comfortable and happy knowing what is recommended behavior, not a rigid set of boundaries that set tiers of judgment. Etiquette should be organic and develop with our times while still being true to traditionally accepted guidelines. When it comes to having meaningful people witness one of the most significant days of your life and also ensuring that your guest list doesn’t double your budget, it is important to consider whether or not the “and guest” is appropriate. Guests are often the most expensive part of a wedding, so don’t blanket allow all single friends and relatives to have a plus one without considering how much that decision

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can affect not only your wedding’s bottom line, but also its mood and feel. An extra twenty to sixty people makes a big difference in the number of bodies that will fill your venue and also the materials required to accommodate them. Is it insensitive to just invite your single friend who isn’t in a relationship or is a serial dater and not include warm body of the month? No, it isn’t. Who knows, that friend may actually meet the love of their life at your wedding because you invited them and they didn’t have to baby sit a date who might be out of their life in a few weeks. On the other hand, any significant relationship, be it multiple months, co-habitation, engagement, or if your friend expresses how

HAVE AN ETIQUETTE QUESTION YOU NEED ANSWERED?

Let Smitten help! EMAIL US AT

hello@smitten-mag.com AND YOUR QUESTION COULD BE OUR NEXT ETIQUETTE TOPIC!

meaningful it would be to bring their date, then certainly invite both people and by name whenever possible. Getting the guest’s name requires more work than simply adding “and guest” on the inner envelope, but it is a gesture that your friend and their significant other will pay attention to and will make them feel even more welcomed into your wonderful celebration. Remember the episode in Sex and the City when Carrie was asked for Big’s name by her friend the bride and the invitation came to the two of them and how special she felt receiving it with her name and his name? My point exactly. Your wedding and the planning thereof is a very special time in your life, which you want

to enjoy and celebrate with those who are most meaningful to you and some people who are most meaningful to them, but that doesn’t mean that you have to feel obligated to add two to four dozen extra bodies by going with a non-strategic “and guest” policy. Look at your list, consider the relationships, budget accordingly, and ultimately make the decision that you will be happy with based on how close you are to those invited while being mindful of their comfort and the realities of your wedding’s ceremony site, reception venue, and overall tone. Sometimes less is more when it comes to the plus one. EMILIE DULLES DULLES DESIGNS ~ EXQUISITE STATIONERY

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Meghan Andrew M ONA RCH B E ACH

CALIFORNIA

photographed by CAROLINE TRAN PHOTOGRAPHY

On a quiet stretch of the southern California shoreline, this couple tied the knot in understated style. “Our goal was a clean, modern and chic atmosphere carefully balanced with color, reflecting the land and the sea,” explains Meghan. Her Vera Wang mermaid gown, his orchid boutonnière. The pure white palette, barely kissed with blue, gray and beige. It was an evening of coastal opulence, sweetened by personal touches—cocktails handcrafted for the wedding party, after-hours fun inspired by late-night joints in Austin, where the two met, and the groom’s unforgettable sing-along. “Andrew hopped on stage with the band to perform an impromptu rendition of ‘Safety Dance.’ Everyone on the dance floor (including the bride) went crazy.” After all, no matter how posh the place, you can dance if you want to. CAIT BARNETT R E A L

W E D D I N G

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CAROLINE TRAN PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPHER

EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN

DETAILS DETAILS WEDDING

AND EVENT PLANNING | FLORALS WHITE LILAC, INC | RENTALS WHITE LILAC, INC | VENUE ST. REGIS MONARCH BEACH RESORT & SPA RECEPTION MUSIC TERTAINMENT GROOM

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TIE

HAIRSTYLIST

& PROGRAMS MINTED.COM 32

ST. REGIS

MSGR. JOHN URELL

OFFICIANT

RALPH LAUREN

FIORE BEAUTY

CATERER

CAKE & SWEETS

ST.REGIS

CEREMONY MUSIC

BELLA MUSICA

SPAZMATICS & PETER PAPADOPOULOS, VIVE ENTERTAINMENT | COCKTAIL MUSIC |

CUSTOM, RIK DUKAR FIORE BEAUTY

GOWN |

VERA WANG

BRIDESMAID

INVITATION DESIGNER

SHOES

VIVE EN-

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN

PRISCILLA OF BOSTON PAPERMADE DESIGN

| |

MAKEUP ARTIST SAVE THE DATES

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F AV O R I T E M O M E N T

...

“One of my favorite moments of the day was when Andrew (the groom) hopped on the stage with the band to perform an impromptu rendition of ‘Safety Dance.’ It was a completely spontaneous, yet very well-executed performance and everyone on the dance floor (including the bride) went crazy.”

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JENICA RILEY

P OP L A R G ROV E P L A N TATION

WILMINGTON, NC

photographed by THEO MILO PHOTOGRAPHY

Jenica knew she wanted a big, cheerful southern wedding, but it was the bespoke handiwork of designer Louise Hedley—flirty, fifties-style tea dresses stitched from vintage fabrics—that brought it all together. The bright floral patterns inspired every last detail, from tablecloths to pennant banners, bouquets to wall hangings. “All that color reminded me of my great-grandmother’s patchwork quilts: hodgepodge and happy,” says the bride. That night on the antebellum grounds of Poplar Grove Plantation, even rain couldn’t ruin the good old-fashioned fun. Unable to drive off as planned, the couple made an off-thecuff exit: Guests lined the dance floor, tossing flower petals as they passed hand-in-hand. “As we reached the end of the tunnel, Riley just scooped me up and carried me into the night. What an incredible end to a perfect day.” CAIT BARNETT R E A L

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PHOTOGRAPHER THEO MILO PHOTOGRAPHY | EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN DIY | FLORAL OLIVE BRANCH GARDENS VENUE

POPLAR GROVE PLANTATION

FURNITURE DECOR

J BRADLEY DESIGNS |

CATERING MIDDLE OF THE

ISLAND CATERING | CAKES & SWEETS JUDY PICKETT | CEREMONY MUSIC GLORIA SPILLERS | RECEPTION MUSIC DJ MARK CASEY

RENTALS

PARTY SUPPLIERS

OFFICIANTS

REVEREND JOHN ROBERT HARRIS & REVEREND

THOMAS BRITTAIN | GOWN MORI LEE | NECKLACE BORROWED | SHOES VINTAGE | GROOM MEN'S WAREHOUSE BRIDESMAIDS LOUISE HEDLEY OF SOHOMODE INVITATIONS & PAPER PAPEREE 46

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MAKEUP ARTIST

BRIDE

HAIRSTYLIST

MARGARET LANE SLOAN

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F AV O R I T E M O M E N T

...

“Surrounded by our family and friends, everyone laughing and joking and ushering us out into our new life...”

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Spring Fling EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, DELLA MACNICHOLAS HAND PICKS HER MUST HAVES FOR SPRING!

Diamond Earrings, DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH

Coral Starfish Necklace, SWELL CAROLINE

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IDEAS

SIGNATURE DRINK

PRICKLY PEAR LEMONADE INGREDIENTS 2 oz. House-infused grilled lemon vodka 1 oz. Prickly pear syrup 1/2 Fresh lemon Soda water Fresh berries

TOOLS - Large cocktail shaker - Small cocktail shaker top - Highball glass

PROCESS Grab a highball glass or mason jar. Fill with ice. Pour lemon vodka over rocks. Add cactus syrup and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Add soda water to fill glass. Shake to perfection. Serve in original glass. Garnish with local fresh berries.

Recipe provided by

SQUEEZE ONSITE WWW.SQUEEZE-ONSITE.COM

LEIGH WEBBER PHOTOGRAPHY

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ACCESSORIES Flower crowns, diamondencrusted gems, even a new take on the classic garter â&#x20AC;&#x201D; we're mad for accessories aplenty. They can add glitz and whimsy to a simple look, or take a backseat to let your gown shine. We're casting a spotlight on a few of our favorite designers to watch.

TWIGS & HONEY DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH J A N N I E B A LT Z E R H I G H COTTO N SMITTEN

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ACCESSORIES T wigs & Honey

SPOTLIGHT

PART FASHION-FORWARD, PART OLD-FASHIONED, THIS SMALL OREGON SHOP GIVES A FRESH, HANDCRAFTED TAKE ON ACCESSORIES. For Myra Callan, lifelong west coaster and founder of the cult-followed bridal shop Twigs & Honey, every piece is a long labor of love. “I’m constantly absorbing beauty that surrounds me,” she explains. “When I see something that I find beautiful, I make a note or sketch of it to remember. Many of my designs start as sketches and descriptive notes that I tweak and adjust for weeks or months. When I finally feel ready to create the piece, I make it by hand with the best materials I can find. Even after it’s finished, I may revise it or shelve it if it isn’t perfect.” From 2007 to 2011, she was working solo, fashioning everything from headpieces and veils to belts, old-fashioned bridal caps and even a signature eau de parfum, cheekily named Rumpledcake. “Last spring, I enlisted the help of a contract worker and my mother to help with production,” Callan explains. “We’ve continued to grow to a point where it would be simply too much for me to handle alone.” With such a commitment to the creative process and an unwavering dedication to detail, it’s no wonder she needed extra sets of hands. “This year’s collection was about pulling out all the stops and making every single piece amazing. I didn’t want to just make pieces for the sake of having ‘new’

items,” she says. “I wanted each piece to be beautifully detailed, handmade and breathtaking.” Mission accomplished. Among her favorites for this season is the Blushing Floral Crown — “the blossoms are all hand-dyed from raw silk, then hand-cut and pressed,” she gushes. “They are individually hand-wired with freshwater pearls. The result is a truly unique and lovingly made piece.” In addition, Callan has carved out an unexpected niche in the garter space. Unexpected, mainly, because she doesn’t much care for the things. “I personally don’t like traditional garters,” she says. “The garter toss tradition can make a bride feel cheesy or uncomfortable and I hear that many brides opt not to wear a garter altogether. I knew that if done right, garters could really make a woman feel that much more glamorous and beautiful on her wedding day. I decided to make styles that echoed my headpiece designs with hand-dyed silks, hand-joined rhinestones and hand-sewn beading. By creating something as elegant and feminine as my headpieces, I felt that brides might have a change of heart.” With her whimsical touch, Callan could make a bride fall for just about anything. CLAIRE E. KEYS

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P H O T O S : E L I Z A B ETH MESSINA

T wigs & Honey SMITTEN

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ACCESSORIES Diamond in theRough

SPOTLIGHT

AN NYC JEWELER LETS NATURE DO THE DESIGNING. In a studio on Lafayette Street in the heart of SoHo, jeweler Diamond in the Rough is making wedding rings of a very different kind — a jagged canary diamond cradled in sleek platinum; an amorphous gem wrapped in bands of micro pavés. An arresting mix of the raw and the refined, Diamond in the Rough’s organic, undone take on luxury makes us question what really makes a diamond “beautiful” anyway. “Our philosophy really is to redefine perceptions of diamond jewelry and celebrate the natural beauty of diamonds in their untouched form,” explains founder Daniel Eskapa. “Since each diamond has a unique natural shape and a setting devoted to it, our pieces are all, literally, one-of-a-kind.” But for an industry where perfection is everything — the cut! the clarity! — one might wonder if the “rough” approach to bridal jewelry really has legs. “To us, there’s nothing more perfect than the diamonds we feature in our jewelry,” Eskapa says. “In 2005, we began selling select pieces at luxury retailers like Bergdorf Goodman. It was there that we noticed more and more women were purchasing our jewelry as unique engagement rings, which inspired us to start our own line of bridal pieces.”

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Their gut was right — the business has blossomed into a premier jewel house with 9 lines of engagement rings, a capsule of eternity bands and three occasion lines: Iceberg, Champagne Bubbles and the ever-popular, stackable Orielle (hello anniversary!). And though their diamonds are considered “rough,” they all belong to an extremely exclusive club. Eskapa and his team select their diamonds with fastidious care — “we’ll sort through thousands just to find one or two that are of our caliber,” he explains — always focused on finding that stunning natural beauty. Once selected, a diamond is never cut, polished or otherwise altered. Instead, its unique features guide the design process, giving way to unusual, nature-driven creations. When choosing the ring, Eskapa insists that, like the dress, like the venue, you’ll experience an instant connection when it’s right. “You’ll feel it,” he says. “Let that be the deciding factor — not what others tell you a perfect diamond should look like.” It seems that our definition is already changing. CLAIRE E. KEYS

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ACCESSORIES

SPOTLIGHT WE TIP OUR HATS TO COPENHAGEN'S PREMIER HEADPIECE COUTURIER. Talking with Jannie Baltzer about her very fast, very high rise to acclaim in the bridal world, it’s quickly clear that her success is thanks to a genuine dose of passion. She jumps right in — “Okay, I admit it,” she says, like a schoolgirl divulging a big secret, “I’m a complete sucker for weddings. Love everything about them. I just adore getting to know all of my lovely brides.” For each of her lovely brides, there’s an equally lovely headpiece. Since November of 2009, Baltzer, 39, has been fashioning bespoke bridal headpieces, ranging from the delicate (a barely-there halo of white flowers) to the daring (an organza rose headband giving way to a lush side veil of tulle). “I love to see old movies from the 1920s and 30s, when the women were so glamorous and chic,” she explains. “My inspiration comes from those and from wedding and fashion photographers — the way they play with shadows, lights and colors.” Her 2012 collection, cast in antique silver, old gold and ivory, is a study of east meets west — low-resting headbands, oversized barrettes and flower crowns play to the exotic, while birdcage veils and feathered caps give a nod to old Hollywood. Each is

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made by hand — by Baltzer herself — in her small Copenhagen studio and available for purchase online. “This way, I can ensure that the quality is always perfect,” she says. So, if she had to pick a favorite from this season’s capsule? The Audrey, she answers: “it’s a stunning halo made from French lace, covered with softest mix of Preciosa pearls and crystals.” And while her looks certainly make a statement, Baltzer insists (with that same excited, infectious energy) that there’s a look for every woman within her collection and pulling it off is a simple matter of balance. “If you’re wearing a very detailed dress, choose a more simple, elegant headpiece. If your dress is understated, try something dramatic that would spice up the look.” She pauses, then throws in one last thought. “Above all else, when picking your look, just stay true to yourself.” CLAIRE E. KEYS

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ACCESSORIES

High Cotton

SPOTLIGHT

WITH UNEXPECTED TEXTURES AND TONES, THIS MOTHER & SON-RUN SHOP MAKES TYING ONE ON GREAT FUN. Once exclusively reserved for supreme prepsters in tame colors and traditional styles, the bowtie is now making its biggest boom yet. Leading the way are James and Judy Hill, mother and son, who launched North Carolina’s High Cotton in 2009 with bowties that break all the rules. It all started with Judy sewing bowties for her oldest son, Cameron, while he was in UVA medical school. “He was a fraternity guy, and this bowtie was a staple of his wardrobe for years,” Judy explains. “So for Christmas, I decided to make him a bowtie. I couldn’t find any silk fabric, so I decided to make it out of cotton.” It was when he returned to campus from holiday break with his new accessory that the chatter began. “Since these cotton bowties were washable and fun to wear, they were an absolute hit back at UVA with his friends in medical school,” she recalls. “I made some for James who had been the president of his fraternity. That’s where it really took off.”

“I’ve just been so amazed at how well it works for all kinds of weddings,” Judy says with a big smile. “We’ve had weddings on plantations down in Louisiana with white dinner jackets and oxford bow ties, and it's like, why didn’t we think of this before?” James follows up with the ever-valuable perspective of a 24-year-old guy: “Guys have very little say on what they wear on the big day, but get so excited about this because it looks handsome. It’s casual enough so it doesn’t look pretentious. They feel comfortable too. It’s that accessory they were looking for, but just didn’t know it.” But what makes these bowties so special, so coveted, is the way they make a groom feel on his big day. “Just be yourself,” James advises for picking the perfect bowtie. “If you can pull off seersucker, by golly do it. I’ve seen some wedding party looks that are forced, and the most dapper are the effortless ones. It has to come to you and be that perfect match.” MEGAN ABIGAIL CHANDLER

Today, Mom manages design and production, while James monitors sales and marketing, making for a well-oiled machine that’s powering full-steam ahead.

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ARYN&

JACOB

THE WINFIELD INN

KYLE, TEXAS

photographed by SUSAN ROSS PHOTOGRAPHY

In the heart of the Lone Star state, just south of Austin, prairies and plains give way to lush, rolling countryside. Meet the impossibly beautiful Texas Hill Country, where Ayrn and Jacob got hitched. That sun-soaked afternoon at The Winfield Inn, it was all about down-home charm; they built the altar cross themselves, in honor of the groom’s late father, and the bride made most of the decorations. The bright white scheme—abloom with hydrangeas, roses and baby’s breath, oh my!—was a portrait of southern sophistication, and the neutral undertones an homage to the sprawling landscape. It’s true; there really is no place like Texas. CAIT BARNETT R E A L

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PHOTOGRAPHER SUSAN ROSS PHOTOGRAPHY | VENUE THE WINFIELD INN | DECOR BRIDE CAKE

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MICHELLE'S PATISSERIE | BAND THE SOPHISTICATES

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LYNDSEY

&SAMEER

VIANSA WINERY AND VINEYARDS

SONOMA, CALIFORNIA

photographed by T I N Y WAT E R

“Beautiful, luscious, as though you’ve been tucked away in paradise,” says Lyndsey of wineries and vineyards, where she traveled with Sameer, where he proposed, where their love grew by the glass. And on their big day, where East met West to stunning effect at Viansa, a hilltop Sonoma estate with Tuscan sensibility. The duo’s modern Indian wedding drenched the Old World milieu in sizzling color—jewel-toned blooms and textiles, with pops of lustrous blue and the glint of gold. But most lavish of all: The bride, her scarlet gown embroidered and bejeweled, her hands artfully painted with henna. Paradise in her own right, if you ask us. CAIT BARNETT R E A L

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PHOTOGRAPHER

TINYWATER PHOTOGRAPHY

EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN

ANAIS EVENT PLANNING AND DESIGN

JOSEPHINE BEAUTY

HAIRSTYLIST

JOSEPHINE BEAUTY

INVITATIONS AND PAPERS INDIAN WEDDING CARD 94

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RENTALS

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F AV O R I T E M O M E N T

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“It was when we walked into the reception. We loved the song we walked into, ‘Uff Teri Adaa.’ It was a very emotional moment when we saw our families and friends standing together, showing us so much love and support.”

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DESTINATION

DISCOVERED

SEA ISLAND G E O R G I A

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GOOD to KNOW

REASONS TO SELECT SEA ISLAND, GEORGIA A S YO U R D R E A M D AY D E S T I NAT I O N

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PARADISE

FOUND

3 THE SPA — The Forbes Five-Star ranked Sea TOP 10 REASONS TO SWOON FOR SEA ISLAND

1 THE LOCATION — A private resort island perched on the coast of Georgia, Sea Island is surrounded by five miles of private Atlantic beach and the largest salt marsh on the Eastern Seaboard.

2 THE VENUES — Surrounded by ancient towering oaks, charming riverfront vistas, secluded gardens, sweeping beachfronts and a private chapel, Sea Island boasts a never-ending roster of idyllic venues for your dream day.

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Island's Cloister Spa & Fitness Center among its favorites. It dazzles with 65,000 square feet of amenities and one of the finest treatment programs in the world. From reflexology to yoga, enjoy a wide range of revitalizing, indulgent experiences.

4 THE ACTIVITIES — The breadth of activities available at Sea Island is unrivaled. Set foot outdoors with tennis, hiking, kayaking, boating, fishing, nature tours, shooting facilities, horseback riding, family recreation programs and more.

5 THE HOSPITALITY — Sweet southern hospitality reigns supreme here. After over 80

years of service, their foundation of warmth and generosity remains constant.

6 THE ROOMS — Sea Island's five-star accommodations are consistently ranked among the best in the world. From sweeping oceanfront views to lush fairway vistas, choose the setting that's right for you. From the Cloister and the Lodge to the private Cottages, you'll experience a uniquely luxurious standard of service.

7 THE HISTORY — Cast in stunning Mediterranean-style architecture against Georgia's coastline, Sea Island tells a rich, one-of-a-kind story. Experience their heritage in the food, the music and the unique traditions they embrace.

8 THE FOOD — Dining has long been a celebrated Sea Island tradition. Each of their ten dining venues features an imaginative menu dreamed up by a dedicated team of culinary professionals.

9 THE GOLF — Say hello to three championship golf courses: Plantation, Retreat and the historic, highly celebrated Seaside Course — host of the PGA Tour's McGladrey Classic. In addition, their Golf Learning Center is home to an award-winning staff and regularly trains some of today's best professional golfers.

10 THE EXTRAS — Believe it or not, there's more. Sea Island is your destination for endless world-class amenities and intuitive services.

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WITH THE HELP OF OUR VERY OWN FLORAL EXPERTS AT STEMS, SMITTEN DISSECTS OUR FAVORITE BOUQUETS T O G I V E E V E RY B R I D E I N S P I R AT I O N

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get INSPIRED ASTILBY

WHITE LISIANTHUS

M I LLET

PEONY O'HARA GARDEN ROSE A N EMONE BARK TWINE

BOU Q U E T: O U T O F H A N D

PHOTO: VIRGIL BUNAO

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WHITE HYDRANGEA

GARDEN ROSE

CALLA L I LY

PHLOX

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BOUQUET: CALDER CLARK DESIGNS & BLOSSOMS EVENTS

SWEET PEA

PHOTO: GAYLE BROO K E R P H O T O G R A P H Y

CRASPEDIA

FREESIA

E U C A LY P T U S

SALAL

BLACK-EYED ANEMONE

BO U Q U E T: S T E FA N I E C O L L E Y

PHOTO: RICHARD ELLIS PHOTOGRAPHY

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SUCCULENT

B E R Z I L LIA

F E AT H E R

SEEDED EUCALYPTUS

DUSTY MILLER

GARDEN ROSE

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BOUQUET: GARDEN TAPESTRY

PHOT O : K A RY N I S E R M A N

SCABIOSA S T E L L ATA DAHLIA

RANUNCULUS

WHITE HYDRANGEA BO U Q U E T: B R A N C H D E S I G N STUDIO

PHOTO: MARNI ROTHSCHILD

GARDEN ROSE

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DAHLIA RANUNCULUS

MOKARA ORCHID

ROSE

SEEDED EUCALYPTUS

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BOUQUET: GATHERING FLORAL + EVENT DESIGN

PH O T O : K I M G R A H A M

BLACK-EYED ANEMONE

HYPERICIUM B E R RY

S E EDED E U CALYPTUS

GREEN DIANTHUS RANUNCULUS MINI GREEN HYDRANGEA

BO U Q U E T: O U T O F H A N D

PHOTO: VALERIA DUQUE

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HYDRANGEA

GARDEN ROSE

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BOUQUET: TIGER LILY

PHOTO: RICHARD E L L I S P H O T O G R A P H Y

FREESIA

DAHLIA

ROSE

HYDRANGEA

BO U Q U E T: T I G E R L I LY

P H OTO: KARYN ISERMAN

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PIN WITH

US! PEONY

TWEEDIA

HYDRANGEA HYPERICUM B E R RY 120

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BOUQUET: BLOSSOMS EVENTS

PHOTO: M A R N I R O T H S C H I L D

SWEET PEA L AV E N D E R

PEONY

C Y M BIDIUM O R C HID PHALAENOPSIS ORCHID VARIGATED LILLY GRASS

BO U Q U E T: S T E M S

P H O T O : MARNI ROTHSCHILD

HYPERICUM B E R RY

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the ultimate tool for gathering & organizing all your wedding inspirations... create styleboards for you and your wedding vendors. keep track of your budget & wedding contacts all in one place...

the wedding row

app

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pick your pair! WHEN WALKING DOWN THE AISLE, LET US NOT FORGET WHAT'S UNDER

THE GOWN... THE SHOES! WONDERFUL, FABULOUS, MIND-BLOWING SHOES. OUR STYLE EDITOR, LINDSEY NOWAK, SEARCHED HIGH AND LOW TO BRING YOU A SELECTION FIT FOR ANY BRIDE'S TASTE – WHETHER IT BE MORE TRADITIONAL SHADES OF IVORY AND METALLIC, OR A STUDY IN BLACK LACE AND VIOLET PYTHON FOR THE MORE DARING.

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3 2

1 6

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PIN WITH

US!

8 9

ENZO ANGIOLINI, KILLY

DOLCE VITA, FELICE

VALENTINO, PEARL COUTURE BOW D'ORSAY

KATE SPADE, FLASH

PRADA, DÉGRADÉ PAILLETTE

VERA WANG LAVENDER, LANIE

BP, SONJA

NINA, BRYNN PUMP

JIMMY CHOO 'CLUE' GLITTER SLINGBACK

10 BADGLEY MISCHKA LACIE 11 BRIAN ATWOOD, DEBRA 12 JIMMY CHOO, BAXEN 13 BADGLEY MISCHKA RANDALL

VALENTINO, PLATFORM PUMP

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Wines to be enjoyed among friends, on the dinner table, with family, accompanied by music & laughter.

A simple pleasure that

brings smiles, joy and gives

purpose.

(707) 942-0400 128

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Pe r c eptionwines.com SMITTEN

Photo: Ann Hawthorne

Mark Ray, Winemaker

WHAT´S COMING

NEXT ? for

MAY/JU N E

THE COLOR ISSUE ... GOWNS, CAKES, FLORALS– Oh My!

INSPIRING

IDEAS REAL GORGEOUS WEDDINGS

and more!

ELIZABETH MESSINA

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COURTNEY

JACK&

F A M I LY H O M E O F G R O O M

L E X I N GTO N, V I RG I N I A

photographed by ELISA B PHOTOGRAPHY

On their sprawling family farm, autumn trees ablaze with color in the backdrop, Courtney and Jack exchanged vows. Blending colors, textures and materials like a pro, Courtney’s penchant for the playful gave their day an “intimate, simple elegance” and a sense of ease. From the tableware — mix-and-match china and minimalist stemware — to the artistic touches — a patchwork “LOVE” poster and hand-painted directional signs — every detail had a whimsical spin. Even Courtney’s veil gave off a sense of unbridled whimsy, flowing freely in the wind and, on occasion, getting tangled in the couple’s first kisses as husband and wife. CLAIR E. KEYS R E A L

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PHOTOGRAPHER

ELISA B PHOTOGRAPHY

EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN

SHINDIG WEDDINGS & EVENTS

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F AV O R I T E M O M E N T

...

“I loved the recessional. When Jack and I got to the end of the aisle, we turned around and were in awe of being married (finally!) and having all of our friends and family together at that moment. It was very emotional – something I'll always remember.”

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BOWDRE

ROB& THE SANCTUARY K I AWA H I SL A N D, SC

photographed by LEIGH WEBBER

Just like the bride, this couple’s island nuptials had an easygoing, Bohemian vibe. “We wanted it to be down to earth, but classy at the same time,” explains Bowdre, an avid nature junkie. Her love for the great outdoors inspired their at once chic and fancy-free theme, Rustic Elegance. On the oak-lined banks of the Kiawah River, kinfolk dined and danced al fresco, helping themselves to jars of Tupelo honey and one downright fun photo booth. Bridesmaids looked positively pretty in pink, and Bowdre beamed in a sweetheart silhouette with—of course—flowers in her hair. Given that glorious Carolina sky, we think Mother Nature was all smiles, too. CAIT BARNETT R E A L

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PHOTOGRAPHER

LEIGH WEBBER PHOTOGRAPHY

FLORIST BLOSSOMS EVENTS

ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHER

EVENT PLANNING & DESIGN JENNIFER HITCHCOCK

CALDER CLARK DESIGNS

PHOTO BOOTH PHOTOGRAPHER

GRAFF CREATIVE | CEREMONY VENUE THE SANCTUARY AT KIAWAH | RECEPTION VENUE MINGO POINT AT KIAWAH CATERER

KIAWAH ISLAND RESORT

RENTALS

SNYDER EVENT RENTALS

LINENS

DC RENTAL

LIGHTING

TEC

CEREMONY MUSIC ARCHER CLASSICAL TRIO | COCKTAIL MUSIC PLANTATION SINGERS | BAND MO’ SOUL | CUSTOM ARTWORK

BOUTIQUE TENTS

GUEST TRANSPORTATION

ABSOLUTELY CHARLESTON

COUPLE’S TRANSPORTATION

CHARLESTON BLACK CAB | STATIONER MARGUERITE PEELE FINE STATIONERY | CALLIGRAPHER ELIZABETH PORCHER JONES 144

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F AV O R I T E M O M E N T

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“It was being surrounded by all of the people I love on the dance floor at Mingo Point. I've never felt more special and loved than I did that entire weekend. To have everyone you care about in one place, celebrating Rob and myself — that was the most amazing feeling in the world.”

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