Sweet Violet Bride Issue 3 {Winter / Spring 2015}

Issue 3 sweetvioletbride.com

r e t n i

W S &

nature inspired style

violet

Bride

Sweet

g n i r p 2015

flower crowns & faerie treasures

www.violetteandiris.com

info@violetteandiris.com

In This Issue

Winter / Spring 2015 IN EVERY ISSUE

INSPIRATION

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40 46 52 58 66 72

Editor’s Letter Resource Directory Sweet Moments

DETAILS 10 12 14 15

In Love With Jewelry Stationery Adornments

REAL WEDDINGS 78 84 90 96 102 108

GOWN GALLERIES 18 19 20

Graphic Lace Layers Plunging Necklines

Barry + Natelee Ashley + Cheyne Lauren + Morgan Samantha + Donovan Amanda + Christopher Rosemary + Steve

DIY

NATURAL BEAUTY 24 26 29 30 32 33

Morning Garden Winter Light Garden in the Girl Golden Glow Plum Pretty European Courtyard

2nd Annual Editor’s Choice Awards Makeup Hair Care Skin Care Perfume Nails

114 118 124 130

Paper Cherry Blossoms Bouquet Recipe Wreath Recipes Floral Dessert Recipes

SPECIAL FEATURES 34

Designer Spotlight: Freya Rose

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ON THE COVER Diana McGregor Photography See this feature on p. 58

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Editor’s Letter

E-mail your thoughts to naomi@sweetvioletbride.com

Make it yours Beauty is made more so when it is uniquely yours – whether it is the way in which you exchange vows, the way you wear your hair, especially the way you smile at the one you love. It is my wish that with the inspiration on these pages you’ll find ideas that spark your unique wedding details.

In this issue we are inspired by shades of white, plum, and peach, and by secret gardens, wild beauty, and relaxed, earthy ceremonies. You’ll get a glimpse of styled and real weddings in Virginia, California, Michigan, Oregon, South Africa, and Ireland to name a few.

In this issue you’ll also find the 2nd Annual Natural Beauty Guide and Editor’s Choice Awards. I had the pleasurable yet difficult year-long task of choosing the best natural products in the makeup, hair care, and skin care categories and hope that the whopping ten-page guide will provide guidance or at least enjoyment for beauty enthusiasts and novices alike. You’ll also find 2015 gown trends, a Q&A with couture shoe designer Freya Rose, a DIY tutorial on how to make paper cherry blossoms, a winter bouquet recipe, stunning wreath recipes from the wonderful Studio Choo, and two delicious edible flower recipes from herbalist and chef Miche Bache.

xoxo Naomi

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Naomi Farr Editor-in-Chief

Photos by Naomi Farr

Congratulations on your special day. I hope you enjoy!

NAOMI FARR Publisher, Editor-in-Chief, Creative Director HEATHER CAULFIELD MILLS Editorial Assistant TORIN JUDD Design Assistant ISSUE No. 3 CONTRIBUTORS Addie Juel, Ais Portraits, Alethea Harampolis, Alixann Loosle, Amanda K, Amanda Wilcher, Anna Le Pley Taylor, Diana McGregor, Freya Rose, Jill Rizzo, Kait Husmann, Katelyn James, Livia Cetti, Miana Jun, Miche Bacher, Michelle March, Paige Green, Pearl & Godiva, Petal Pixie, Shalynne Imaging, Yolande Marx

CONNECT WITH SWEET VIOLET BRIDE

@VioletBride facebook.com/SweetVioletBride pinterest.com/VioletBride Follow us on Etsy etsy.com/pages/sweetvioletbride Visit the Sweet Violet Bride blog at sweetvioletbride.com

Sweet Violet Bride is a semi-annual publication available on issuu.com, MagCloud and sweetvioletbride.com. All materials herein are protected by copyright laws. Reproduction in whole or in part without written consent of Sweet Violet Bride is strictly prohibited. Sweet Violet Bride reserves all rights. Statements and opinions expressed by our contributors, writers, and editors are their own and other professionals may express differing views. The information in this magazine has been thoroughly researched, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy. Sweet Violet Bride disclaims all responsibility for omissions and printer’s errors. We do our best to ensure that our advertisers are reputable. However, by accepting and publishing advertisements, Sweet Violet Bride is not endorsing or guaranteeing the quality of service or products within those advertisements and cannot be held liable for the quality or performance of advertisers within this publication. Sweet Violet Bride reserves the right to refuse advertising. All advertisements are accepted and published with the representation by the advertiser that they are authorized to publish the advertisements entire contents. Those interested in submitting materials for consideration, or interested in ordering issues should visit sweetvioletbride.com. Please address all business correspondence to Sweet Violet Bride, PO Box 472, Jeffersonville, VT 05464.

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In Love With Personal Touches + Customization

Peronalizing your wedding is part of the fun! Monogram cake toppers, custom clutches for your bridesmaids, personalized guest book alternatives, and your very own custom color lipstick are just a few of our favorites!

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1. Give your bridesmaids something thoughful and functional. You can customize clutches by choosing fabrics, monogramming, and embroidery with Oatmeal & Lace. $50, oatmeallacedesign.etsy.com 2. Personalize your perfume experience by ordering a sample

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set of natural solid perfumes from Illuminated Perfume. Layer multiple scents for a unique combination that is you. Choose seven in a special round honey bee tin for $55. illuminatedperfume.etsy.com 3. It doesn’t get much more personalized than handcrafted fingerprint

rings by Brent & Jess. This set here also has an “I love you...I love you too” engraved on the inside of the bands. $325. brentjess.com 4. Cake toppers offer the perfect opportunity to put your own spin on a longtime tradition. We love this arrow and initials personalized

wire cake topper by Le Rustic Chic. $16.99+, LeRusticChic.etsy.com 5. Frame your favorite moments in a rustic wood frame that includes a tree carved with your initials. From Morgann Hill Designs. $25+, www.morgannhilldesigns.net

ALL IMAGES THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE COURTESY OF DESIGNERS UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED

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6. A custom wedding “guest book” map is perfect for couples who come from different parts of the world or who love to travel. It can be hung as a poster after everyone signs it. Marshmallow Ink, $45+, From marshmallowinkllc.etsy.com 7. In the New York area? Don’t pass

up the chance to create your own lipstick color at BITE Beauty Lip Labs. Watch how they are made at bitebeauty.com/blog/video-watchhow-we-make-custom-lipstick 8. Looking for a special way to ask your friends to be your bridesmaids, or just send a little lovenote

to someone? Get a love note locket from Violette & Iris, which comes with a personalized note tucked inside, $24. violetteandiris.com 9. A wooden keepsake box with personalized tile ($78) is perfect for storing newlyweds’ wedding day treasures. Paloma’s Nest also

makes gorgeous ring dishes and ring bearer bowls that can be personalized with initials, dates, even special notes. Bowls from $32, palomasnest.com

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Jewelry Pearls

A luminescent pearl, though simple, is perhaps one of the most perfect gems. Coveted by humans for thousands of years, they’ve been made iconic by those such as Jacqueline Kennedy, Princess Grace, and Coco Chanel. We love these elegant and natural designs that feature the world’s most timeless jewel.

Leaves Engagement Ring No.6, Doron Merav, $950, 18k yellow gold and pearl, doronmerav.com Luxe 14k Biwa Pearl Ring, Suz Somersall, $580, www.suzsomersall.com

Pearl Vine Bridal Earrings, Violette & Iris, $48, sterling and freshwater pearl, violetteandiris.com

Five Pearl Silver Ring with Red Rubies, Fernando Jewelry, $575, fernandoJewelry.etsy.com

Snow Bud Earrings, Azara for BHLDN, $140, Swarovski Crystal and Majorica pearl, bhldn.com

Pearl’s Nest Ring, Sundance, $128, sterling and cultured white pearl, sundancecatalog.com Estuary Necklace, BHLDN, $250, bhldn.com

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ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF RETAILERS UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED

Rosie’s Pearl Necklace, Eric Van Peterson for Sundance, $390, sundancecatalog.com

Mutiple Strand Potato Pearl Necklace 19”, Intrikate Designs, $375, a contemporary yet elegant spin on the classic pearl necklace, intrikatedesigns.com

Artist Spotlight {Intrikate Designs}

Kate Altman, a jewelry artist from Maine, specializes in pearl creations for special occasions and everyday. Her journey in jewelry making started long ago and didn’t begin with pearls. “I had forgotten how far back jewelry making went in my existence until I came across a jewelry box filled with my childhood treasures,” says Kate. The box was filled with strung macaroni, gimp, seed beads, macramé, and beach shell masterpieces. “It reminded me that jewelry has been a part of who I am from the beginning. It hasn’t always been center stage, but I certainly have pieces of jewelry from every stage of my adult life.” After a B.S. in geosciences, years spent as a geotechnical inspector on a barge in the Kennebec River, then years spent working in corporate retail, her creations slowly evolved from macramé, to glass bead designs, to long glass lariats and finally into chunky pearl lariats. “I can probably credit the few years I lived on Beacon Hill in Boston for the switch from glass to pearls. From there the pearls just took on a life of their own. I couldn’t resist my love for them—and here I am today with a studio full of pearls.” Kate works from her studio in Yarmouth, Maine when she isn’t spending time with her husband, two children and three dogs. For more information visit intrikatedesigns.com.

Four-Strand Keshi Pearl Necklace 17.5” Intrikate Designs, $500, intrikatedesigns.com

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Stationery Stationery inspired by heirloom floral seed packets or illustrations is fun for bohemian, vintage, or garden weddings - or anyone who simply enjoys botanical beauty! Your day will be all the brighter for these finds.

Floral Bouquet Wedding Invitation in Blush on real birch or paper and place card at right in real birch wood, Night Owl Paper Goods, $6ea. for 50 invites, $1 ea. for 200 place cards, nightowlpapergoods.com

Flora flat print invitation with envelope, Lucky Luxe, starts at $227, lucky-luxe.com. Shown: Flatprint invitation + RSVP w/ envelope + accommodations + information card + custom printed envelope liner (seed packets, dried flowers and twine not included).

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Upcycled Spring and Summer Paper Garland, pages from The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady by Edith Holden, Peony and Thistle, $22.51 for 9 flags, PeonyandThistle.etsy.com

Lush Life Wedding Invitations in Silverberry, Claire Pettibone for Wedding Paper Divas, $179 for 100, weddingpaperdivas.com

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF RETAILERS UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED

Heirloom Flora

Adornments Capelets and Cover Ups

Winter and early spring present the perfect opportunity to adorn your shoulders for extra glamour and warmth. Capelets, shawls, and cover ups can transform a simple gown into a unique look, and can be handy for religious ceremonies that require a little extra coverage

Trickling Capelet, from Moyona on BHLDN, $140, bhldn.com

Silk Organza Flower Shawl, Kirstie Kelly, $900, kirstiekelly.com

ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF RETAILERS UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED

Alencon Lace Bridal Capelet, Marisol Aparicio, $325, MarisolAparicio.etsy.com

Carlotta Wrap, from Love Quotes on BHLDN, $78, bhldn.com

Agnes Capelette Wilderness Brides, $112.34, wildernessbrides.etsy.com

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Embrac y Eco-­Goddess

Wedd Go

f t y vvy ECO Â BR IDAL

janay-a.com

shop now

violetteandiris.com

Lothirielle

lockets

by Violette & Iris

Gown Gallery Graphic Lace

Trending on the 2015 runway, graphic lace provides a bold alternative to more traditional delicate laces. These gowns feature larger lace patterns and sometimes daring “see-through� paneling. These gowns can be almost like a patterned fabric, but have plenty of bridal elegance.

1 2 1. Kelsey Genna, kelseygenna.com 2. Zuhair Murad, zuhairmurad.com 3. Naeem Khan, naeemkhan.com 4. Francesca Miranda, francescamiranda.com

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L a y e r s Gown Gallery

Sometimes more is more, at least when it comes to layers. Whether featuring layers of tulle, ruffled silk, lace, or fringe, these gowns have movement, playfulness, and elegance. Expert tip: Provide balance by pairing intricate gowns with simple accessories.

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Gown Gallery Plunging Necklines

Plunging necklines are as popular as ever, with options for every shape and cup size.

Keep it classy with sleeves or illusion lace, and double-stick fashion tape to be sure your “girls” don’t make an unexpected appearance.

1 1. Naeem Khan, naeemkhan.com 2. Claire Pettibone, clairepettibone.com 3. Naeem Khan, naeemkhan.com 4. Jenny Packham, jennypackham.com

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A Distinctive Collection of Rustic, Enchanted Treehouses in a Fairytale Forest Setting. Ideal for Weddings, Honeymoons and Recommitments. treehousepoint.com | weddings@treehousepoint.com

Amanda Lloyd Photography

2nd

Annual

Natural Beauty Guide

& Editor’s Choice Awards

ucts you use or are considering using, I recommend EWG’s Skin Deep Cosmetics Database (www.ewg.org/skindeep). Your skin absorbs what you put on it, so the more you know, the better decisions you can make when buying beauty products in the future. The testing of cosmetics is voluntary in the United States, which means it’s up to you to learn about the products you use.

I hope this helps you find the perfect products for your natural wedding day look, and beyond! To follow my natural beauty adventures during the year, see sweetvioletbeauty.com. And remember, you’ll feel most beautiful when you choose products that enhance your natural look. As Coco Chanel said, “Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.”

Stay healthy and beautiful!

xo Naomi

OPPOSITE: DEPOSITPHOTOS INC., USA / THIS PAGE: NAOMI FARR

Over the last year I’ve tried everything I could get my hands on in order to bring you the best selections for the second guide you see before you! I’ve had fun reviewing many of my finds on sweetvioletbeauty.com and am super excited to share with you this round of award winners. As always, I try to find products that are as natural as possible, while still doing their job.

When I try a new product I ask myself, is this wedding-worthy?

And also, how natural is this/what ingredients does it contain?

I’ve included products here that perform well, and are free of as many of the harmful, toxic ingredients as possible (i.e. paraben free, sulfate free, phthalate free etc.) and if they’re free of artificial color, artificial scents, and gluten then all the better! Many of the products included here are also vegan and cruelty free, and made with as many certified organic ingredients as possible.

If you’re interested in screening the ingredients in the prod-

TRIED, TESTED and ADDICTED... sweetvioletbride.com | 25

Natural Beauty Makeup

Best Loose Mineral Eyeshadow

Best Lid Primer

The semi-matte mineral bases by Everyday Minerals are silky, provide buildable lasting coverage and are gentle on skin. Plus they come in 24 different shades. Their Sunlight Finishing dust is the absolute best for setting undereye concealer. 100% Vegan. $14, everydayminerals.com

Best Tinted Eyebrow Gel

Gently tint your brows with OFRA’s Semi-Permanent Waterproof Eyebrow Gel. Get that perfect, natural brow shape that won’t fade even in hot weather. Seen here in Khaki, I found it to last for 48 hours. A little goes a long way. $24.95, ofracosmetics.com

Best Fluid Foundation NVEY ECO’s Moisture Rich Fluid Foundation, is made with organic ingredients such as Chamomile, Vitamin E, and Safflower oil, is fragrance free and leaves your skin feeling soft and looking flawless. I also found it to be longlasting and somewhat mattifying. $49.95, nveyeco.com

Best Mascara

Two years in a row I’ve found the best in natural mascaras to be 100 % Pure’s Fruit Pigmented Mascara. This 100% natural, 100% vegetarian formula lengthens and separates without fall-out. It’s water and smudge resistant but washes off easily. It’s colored with berry pigments, and simply performs the best. I love it in blackberry. $21, 100percentpure.com

Best Spot Concealer

When you need to cover that spot ASAP, then jane iredale’s Disappear ™ Concealer will get the job done.

It contains green tea extract to soothe while it camouflages that breakout. $30, janeiredale.com TIP: Any concealer is going to last longer if you set it with a powder.

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Best Matte Lipcolor Best Powder Blush

The ultimate natural flush can be found with Au Naturale’s Pixie Blusher. This tender pink pigment looks natural and beautiful on a variety of skin tones. 100% natural, free of addditives, parabens, preservatives, nano-particles, and is vegan and cruelty-free. $24, aunaturaleglow.com

For a true matte lip, or a lasting matte color to wear under your favorite gloss, try Burt’s Bees Lip Crayons. Currently available in six shades, seen here in Carolina Coast, Hawaiian Smolder, and Redwood Forest. 100% natural. $9 ea., burtsbees.com

ALL IMAGES THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE COURTESY OF RETAILERS UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED

Best Mineral Foundation + Finishing Powder

Make your eyeshadows last longer and prevent creasing with jane iredale’s Lid Primer. Seen here in Lemon, it helps crete the perfect canvas but can also be worn alone for a fresh faced look. Vegan. $18.50, janeiredale.com

You’ll want to collect all of Alima Pure’s Mineral Eyeshadows! Choose from more than 60 colors, and three different finishes (satin matte, luminous shimmer, and pearluster). Hypoallergenic and all natural. (from left): Leone, Prosecco, Cocoa. $12.50 ea., alimapure.com

tried. tested. addicted.

E-mail your favorites to naturalbeauty@sweetvioletbride.com

Eyeliner Tip

If you mess up your eyeliner, wait until it has dried before wiping away or correcting with a q-tip dampened with makeup remover. Same goes for smudged mascara.

Best Lip Gloss

This silky and creamy formula is non-sticky and super moisturizing. Pacifica’s Enlightened Gloss is infused with coconut and antioxidants and is currently available in six shades (seen here in Nudist, Opal, and Poppy). Gives a gorgeous natural shine and feels great. $12, pacificabeauty.com

Best Liquid Liner

Create the perfect line with the tarte lights, camera, lashes™ precision longwear liquid eyeliner. This pen is easy to use, longwearing and creates rich definition while soothing skin with provitamin B5. $20, tartecosmetics.com

Best Long Lasting Eye Pencil

The WINK Eye Pencil by Butter London goes on super smooth and once it sets, it stays in place all day. Comes in 13 colors from neutrals to brights. Seen here in Busker and Cor Blimey. $18, butterlondon.com

Best Bronzing/Contouring Powder

The key to bronzing is to be subtle. With the Genfiore Hydrasheer Mineral Pressed Bronzer you’ll get that natural sunkissed glow. This formula is infused with natural botanical extracts for a silky consistency and healthy skin. $24 CAD, genfiore.com

Best Bronzing/Contouring Stick

If a cream/solid bronzer is more your style then try the Solar Translucent Bronzer from Vapour Organic Beauty. Blends in beautifully and is infused with antioxidants such as pomegranate and green tea. Use on shoulders and décolletage too. Three shades. $36, vapourbeauty.com

Lip Tip

Appy bold colors with a lip brush, and have BITE Beauty Lush Lip Wipes on hand to fix any minor mishaps. Plus they’re the best for removing lip colors, period.

Best Luminizing Powder

There’s nothing quite like the honeyhued highlighter by theBalm. The Mary-Lou Manizer can be used as a highlight, shadow and shimmer. It catches the light for that just-right angelic luminosity. A must have for your brow bone and tops of your cheeks. $24, thebalm.com

Best Liquid Glow

Best Liquid Lipstick

Go bold with BITE Beauty’s Cashmere Lip Cream. The cream to powder formula delivers lightweight yet intense color (50% pigment dispersion). Available in 10 wine-inspired shades.

Seen here in Sancerre. $28, sephora.com

Best Pressed Eye Shadow

The pressed eye shadows by OFRA Cosmetics are seriously long lasting - as in all day without creasing! Can be applied wet or dry. Choose from more than 60 colors. I especially love the shimmery Bliss and Bohemian (seen above) from their “Diamonds are Forever” collection. $15, ofracosmetics.com

For mixing into your foundation or your moisturizer, 100% Pure’s all over glow: lightly sun kissed is the best. This all natural, vegan formula has just the right amount of translucent shimmer in it to make your skin look healthy, and a bit ethereal. Plus it’s good for your skin. $32, 100percentpure.com

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Natural Beauty Makeup

Best Blotting Papers

Best Non-Powder Blush This wedding season I’m loving jane iredale’s PureMoist ® Lipstick for brides. Available in 25 juicy shades, this petal-soft formula is long lasting, has buildable color, and is made with nourishing natural oils and superfruits. Vegan, cruelty-free, and wheat-free. Seen here in Margi, Mary, and Naomi. $25, janeiredale.com

Best Tinted Moisturizer

Juice Beauty’s Stem Cellular Repair CC Cream has remained a favorite two years in a row. This 12 in 1, age-defying multi-tasker color corrects, evens skintone, has SPF 30, balances, repairs and nourishes skin. It is now available in five shades and made with certified organic ingredients. This is an absolute must to pack on your honeymoon! $39, juicebeauty.com

10 Common Ingredients to Avoid

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) & Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) Polyethelene Glycol or (PEGs) Propylene Glycol (petroleum derived) Parabens (methylparabens, polyparabens) Petroleum Based Ingredients (Petro-chemicals) Artificial Colors (labeled as FD&C or D&C) Artificial Fragrances Urea/Formaldehydes Triethanolamine (TEA) Phthalates

Best Makeup Remover

To gently remove eye makeup use Make-Up Remover Cleansing Water

by Caudalie Paris. It is non-irritating and formulated without parabens, phthalates, mineral oils, sodium laureth sulfate, or animal ingredients. $14 for 100 ml travel size, us.caudalie.com

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The Original Aburatorigami - Japanese Blotting Papers from Tatcha, are all natural Abaca leaflets with tiny gold flakes that absorb excess oil without disturbing any makeup or taking away moisture.

Powder-free, fragrance-free, and pulp-free. $12, tatcha.com

Best Mattifying Primer

For those with oily skin, a mattifying primer like this one by Mineral Fusion is key. It contains Kaolin clay which absorbs oil and reduced unwanted shine. Also helps to fill in lines and even tone.

Antioxidants and a collagen-boosting peptide help fight signs of aging. Have dry skin? They also have hydrating and illuminating primers. $28.99, mineralfusion.com

Best Solid Concealer

Look like you actually slept with 100% Pure’s Fruit Pigmented Long Lasting Concealer. Great for under eye circles, it is an antioxidant rich formula that is water, oil, sweat, and caking resistant. Blendable and also good for your skin. Apply with ring finger or small concealer brush. $21, 100percentpure.com

Best Highlighter Stick

For a subtle, dewy sheen that comes in a handy solid format the Organic Creme Highlighter Stick from Au Naturale truly stood out. Easy to use and blend on face or décolleté for a luminous golden glow.

This formula works on a wide range of skin tones. Organic, Non-Toxic, Gluten-Free, Paraben-Free, Vegan, Non-Nano. $32, aunaturaleglow.com

ALL IMAGES THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE COURTESY OF RETAILERS UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED

Best All-Around Lipstick

This Coconut Water Cheek Gelee by Josie Maran is a blush “hybrid” that gives the natural look of a cream blush with the lasting power of a gel stain. Seen here in Honeymoon Honey and Pink Escape. It is made with pure coconut water, argan oil, vitamin E and all natural, vegan ingredients.

It’s super hydrating! $22, josiemaran.com

H a i r C a r e Natural Beauty

Best Moisturizing Hair Mask

Best Leave-In Conditioner

A detangling leave-in conditioner is a must for those with long tresses and the VERB LeaveIn Mist is my favorite. An essential step between washing and styling, it helps to nourish, smooth, repair ends, and prevent breakage among other things. Paraben, gluten and sulfate free and vegan. $14, verbproducts.com

Winter can be harsh on skin, including scalp and hair. Revitalize it with the Dry Scalp Shea Butter from Just Natural. It instantly soothes, and rehydrates in just one use without leaving a greasy residue. Free of mineral oil, silicones, and petroleum which can cause build up and clog hair follicles. $27.99, justnaturalskincare.com

Best Dry Shampoo

Second-day hair is often easier to style, and Healthy Locks dry shampo powder from One Love Organics will strengthen, nourish, and soak up any oil between washes without being chalky. Makes your blowout last an extra day. Honeymoon must have! $12 for 0.6 oz., oneloveorganics.com

Best Texturizing Spray

For windswept, bohemian waves, VERB Sea Spray transforms flat hair with breezy texture. Formulated with natural sea salt and moisturizers, it is light yet effective on both long and short hair styles. $14, verbproducts.com

CENTER PHOTO: DEPOSITPHOTOS INC., USA

Best for Curly Locks

For wavy to curly hair the Curl Care Shampoo and Conditioner from Mineral Fusion naturally defines curls and lessens frizz with argan and flax oils, while Murumuru and Shea butters hydrate and help detangle. Vegan, cruelty free, paraben free, gluten free, and sulfate free. $9.99 ea., mineralfusion.com

Best for Fine Hair

Not only do they smell fresh and invigorating, the Acure pure mint + echinacea stem cell shampoo and conditioner are volumizing and restorative. Contains Quinoa protein extract, Argan Oil + Babassu Oil, and Echinacea Stem Cells to promote cellular regeneration at the root level. Vegan, and free of gluten sulfates, parabens, phthalates. Cruelty free. $9.99, acureorganics.com

Best Brushes

The right brush can make a world of difference. My go-to is the eco-friendly bamboo massage paddle brush from Olivia Garden.

It has an ionic cushion, helps detangle, and massage scalp. There is a right tool for every hair type and purpose - use the brush guide to select which brush is right for you at www.oliviagarden.com/brushselection/chart.php $14.95, oliviagarden.com

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Natural Beauty Skincare

Best Eye Cream Best Exfoliator and Skincare Tool

Though at first look a blue body butter might seem strange, the Tatcha Indigo Soothing Silk Body Butter is a beautiful thing. Especially wonderful for sensitive, inflamed or irritated skin consistent with symptoms of dermatitis, eczema and rosacea. Rich in anti-inflammatory Indigo, liquid Silk and Squalane, it soothes and moisturizes unlike anything else. $48, tatcha.com

Best Pedi Cream

Your feet will thank you for using Julep’s Mint Condition Pedi Crème.

It moisturizes and gently exfoliates bottoms of feet with alpha hydroxy acids, shea butter, coconut oil, essential oils, and vitamin E. No Parabens or Sulfates. $20, or $16 if you become a Maven, julep.com

Best Lip Exfoliator

Keep your lips in perfect condition by using BITE Beauty Whipped Cherry Lip Scrub. The 100-percent natural cherry-flavored mousse is infused with exfoliating beads to smooth and condition lips. Also contains antioxidant Resveratrol, fruit acids rich in vitamin C, and rice bran. Free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. $18, sephora.com

Most Luxurious Face Oil

The ultimate beauty oil for rose lovers. The 100% active Beauty Elixir I by Kypris contains essential oil of 1,000 organic Bulgarian roses. Just 2-3 drops patted into skin gives you glowing, dewy, petal-soft skin while also repairing signs of environmental or hormonal stress. Organic,

wild-crafted, and sustainably grown ingredients. $225, kyprisbeauty.com

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Best Bodywash

A body wash that is non-drying, non-irritating, and smells refreshing and beautiful? Yes, please! Nourish Organic’s Moisturizing Cream Organic Body Wash is all of those things and more. Vegan, free of gluten, sulfates, and parabens, $9.99, nourishorganic.com

Best Serum (Fruity)

The best among the facial serums with fruit ingredients is Eminence Organics Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Serum. Smells delicious and hydrates, evens skintone, brightens, gently exfoliates, and minimizes appearance of pores. I find this to be excellent for combination skin. Visit eminenceorganics.com to find a spa near you.

Best Acne Treatment

When you need that blemish gone fast reach for OFRA Drying Lotion. Available in four shades, to help conceal while treating under foundation. It helps to clear and prevent blackheads, whiteheads and acne blemishes. For best results, apply to the affected area(s) before bed and leave on overnight. $19.50, ofracosmetics.com

ALL IMAGES THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE COURTESY OF RETAILERS UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED

Best Body Butter

The Clarisonic Smart Profile is an investment your skin will thank you for. It is a 4-speed device with Smart Technology that will cleanse up to 11x better than hands alone. I love that it has timed prompts for each area of the face with appropriate speeds and intensity. $265, clarisonic.com

Suki Skincare’s eye lift renewal cream - day is my favorite eye cream of the year. It absorbs quicky, is non-greasy, helps to wake up eyes, and keep delicate eye area moisturized all day. Reduces puffiness, redness, fine lines, wrinkles and discolorations. $60.95, sukiskincare.com

tried. tested. addicted.

E-mail your favorites to naturalbeauty@sweetvioletbride.com

Best Moisturizing Mask for Sensitive Skin

Regain that fresh, natural glow with the Blossom Therapeutic Mask by Phenome. The light gel formula with rose blossom and ecological plant waters helps to hydrate, soothe, and reduce inflammation, redness, and irritation. It smells divine and helps calm not only your skin, but your state of being. $72, phenomeus.com

Best Detoxifying Mask

This French Rose Clay from Evanhealy contains Moroccan Rhassoul Clay and helps to refine skin texture, detoxify, and exfoliate. I noticed a major difference in just one use! A beautiful natural alternative to harsh acid treatments. $24.95, evanhealy.com

Best Facial Tonic

As a facial tonic addict, I highly recommend any of the ones from Evanhealy, but especially the Rose Petal Facial Tonic HydroSoul.

The sweet rosy-floral aroma uplifts and calms while this classic humectant helps to lock in moisture after cleansing. It might just become your new ritual. $23.50, evanhealy.com

Most Gentle Cleanser

Best Serum (Floral)

I’ve tried many face serums and this is my favorite of the florals. Jurlique’s Rose Moisture Plus Daily Moisture Balancing Serum is an anti-oxidant rich formula that replenishes with essential fatty acids and botanical oils including Rose Hip Oil - which also gives it a heavenly scent. Absorbs quickly and easily. $50, jurlique.com

Best Facial Creams

Rejuvenate, moisturize, repair, and protect your skin with Sibu Beauty’s all natural Sea Buckthorn Nourishing Facial Cream during the day, and the ultra rich Sea Buckthorn Repleneshing Night Cream while you sleep. Cruelty-free and free of Parabens, dairy, yeast, wheat, gluten, sodium and preservatives. $20.95 and $34.95, sibubeauty.com

For a gentle daily cleanse use Gentle Nourishing Organic Cleanser from Desert Essence. Nutrientrich Apple juice, Aloe Vera, Chamomile, and Cucumber extracts moisturize dry sensitive skin. No sulfates, harsh chemicals, dyes or fragrances. $13.99, desertessence.com

Best Cleansing Oil For Him

This trio of facial care products for men will leave his face smooth and kissable. Phenomé’s Energizing Face Wash awakens skin with a gentle soap-free formula that doesn’t leave any residue, while the Ideal Smooth Shaving Gel prepares skin for a clean and precise shave while also working to tone. Finish with their Post Shave Cooling Lotion for all-day comfort and moisture. It helps to regenerate and calm any irritations and contains natural, organic plant extracts which reinforce the skin’s defense mechanisms. $42-$56, phenomeus.com

To quickly melt away makeup and cleanse at the same time, use Tatcha’s One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil. Works even on waterproof makeup and leaves skin super soft. Formulated without: Mineral Oil, Synthetic Colors, Synthetic Fragrances, Sulfate Detergents, Parabens, PEGs, PPGs, Urea, DEA, TEA or Phthalates. $48, tatcha.com

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Natural Beauty Perfume Natural perfumes are ones that aren’t made with synthetic fragrances or petrochemicals (which can cause headaches, allergies, and immunotoxicity). They’re made with essential oils (certified organic when possible), absolutes, plant essences and extracts, and should be free of formaldehyde, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and propylene glycol. If they use alcohol it should be natural grain alcohol, in my opinion. Here are nine of my most recent favorites that are also cruelty-free.

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1. Vered Blue Violet Organic botanicals, $98, or sample size for $11, veredbotanicals.com 2. Trance Essence Pink Kat Artisan eau de parfum with organic essential oils and absolutes $85 for 2 fl. oz. tranceessence.com 3. Pour le Monde Together 100% natural perfume $82 for 1.7 fl. oz., or $18 for a

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sample pack of all 3 of their scents. pourlemondeparfums.com 4. Givescent Signature Pure parfum oil, essential oils, and sweet almond oil. Inspired by Italy. $48 for 5ml roll-on, givescent.com 5. Pacifica Tahitian Gardenia Natural and essential oils. $12 for .33 fl. oz roll-on, pacificabeauty.com 6. Red Flower Champa

Organic perfume, $186, for 15 ml. redflower.com 7. Intelligent Nutrients Pure Neroli Certified organic pure essential oil, $128 for .3 fl. oz roll-on in accupressure bottle, intelligentnutrients.com 8. Intelligent Nutrients Destress Express Pure essence elixir, $41.50, for .3 fl. oz. roll-on in accupressure bottle, intelligentnutrients.com

9. Fig + Yarrow Complexion Water in Rose/Sandalwood/Neroli An aromatherapeutic hydrating mist is a great alternative to “perfume.” $14 for 1 oz., figandyarrow.com 10. Vapour Organic Beauty N°1 All natural, seductive unisex solid perfume, $40 for .12oz/3.54g vapourbeauty.com

ALL IMAGES THIS PAGE AND OPPOSITE COURTESY OF RETAILERS UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED

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N a i l s Natural Beauty As a self-confessed nail polish junkie, I’ve personally tested these colors from the brands I love and think they’d be beautiful for brides. These are all vegan, cruelty-free, and free of the common carcinogens found in most nail polish, ranging anywhere from “4-free” to “7-free”! From a pretty rose gold foil finish to the perfect neutral pink creme, these will have your tips looking elegant and ready for that close-up shot of your rings!

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1. Julep Shari Delicate sweetpea crème. $14, or $11.20 if you become a Julep Maven, julep.com 2. Priti NYC Empress Tree An opaque pastel purple. $15, pritinyc.com 3. Côte No. 11 Pearlized ballet pink. $16, www.coteshop.co

4. Julep Abigail Light peony pink with silk finish. $14, or $11.20 if you become a Julep Maven, julep.com 5. Priti NYC Hardy Water Lily An opaque golden lamee metallic shimmer. $15, pritinyc.com 6. Pacifica Unicorn Horn A mystical mother of pearl shimmer that can be used as a topcoat for an

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ethereal finish on any color. $9, pacificabeauty.com 7. 100% Pure Cloud Opaque pale sky blue cream. Could be your “something blue.” $12, 100percentpure.com 8. SpaRitual Whirlwind Romance Pearly beige pink shimmer. $12, sparitual.com 9. SpaRitual Multi-Tasker® Base &

Topcoat, A perfect base foundation and a sleek high-gloss UV protective finish in one bottle. Helps keep nails strong, helps prevent staining, and as a topcoat helps your manicure last days longer. $17, sparitual.com

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Spotlight

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If you love shoes, and I mean really love the art of shoes, then you will adore the exquisite couture designs by London designer Freya Rose. For many women, finding the perfect bridal shoe is just as important as the right dress – blame it on watching Cinderella at a very impressionable age – and with a pair of Freya Rose shoes you’ll be adding a family heirloom to your special collection.

Renowned for her finest levels of craftsmanship and intricate detailing, her shoes are hand embellished with the finest materials fit for any fairy queen or palace princess including lustrous fresh water pearls, Swarovski crystal, French Chantilly lace, and shimmering Mother of Pearl to name a few. We had the pleasure of asking Freya herself a few questions, and got a glimpse into the world of this acclaimed couture designer.

Q&A with Freya Rose

SVB: You’ve just launched an accessory collection; tell us a bit about that...

FR: I incorporated influences of Art Deco, Orientalism and French Bohemian eras into the accessory collection. I wanted the collection to complement my existing shoe designs and give brides the option to co-ordinate their accessories. The collection uses the finest French Chantilly lace and luxurious Duchess satins, unique hand embroidery, lustrous freshwater pearls and sparkling Swarovski crystals. For the ready-to-wear side of the collection I used Japanese Clay Beads, deluxe gold threads and molten gold flowers to create the ultimate in high-end couture.

SVB: What kind of bride did you have in mind when creating this collection?

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SVB: Do you have any tips for brides on how to accessorize for their big day?

FR: • Choose shoes and accessories that work with your dress. If you are having a lot of details it can be nice to opt for subtle details on the shoes such as pearl buttons and mother of pearl heels. If you have a special material on your dress it can be an option to design a bespoke clip incorporating it.

• Consider your jewellery and headdress. It is always a lovely touch to co-ordinate the theme with your shoes as it balances out your outfit.

• Choose accessories you love. It is the biggest day of your life and the shoes will not only hold you but your soul and spirit. Every girl feels special in beautiful heels and shoes can be easily stored as a memento to love and cherish.

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SVB: Where do you find inspiration? And what is your design process like?

FR: Creative inspirations come from every experience and every day, through a keen observance, attentive listening and deep thought. No inspiration can be too little or too obscure.

My mother, Barbara Tipple, is a jewellery designer and has inspired the way I work, my design ethos and materials used.

Growing up in her workshop is where I learnt to love and appreciate the precious materials used and the skilled craftsmen that produced the jewellery to the highest quality. This can be seen in the selection of materials used within my collections from hand mosaic heels to the real pearls and sterling silver buttons.

FR: I had the typical Freya Rose bride in mind for the accessory collection. The clientele we hold is very varied as all brides love the service and attention we provide to them. The one thing that links all of our brides is that they truly appreciate quality and intrinsic design so this was the highest priority when designing the accessories.

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SVB: How did you get into shoe design? Did you always want to be a designer?

FR: From a young age I was surrounded by the art of fine jewelry making, observing high levels of craftsmanship, luxury and quality. Inspired and eager to design, I went on to study shoe design at the London College of Fashion. After working for amazing shoe designers such as Gina, I homed in on the bridal industry. There is something very magical and enchanting about the bridal industry that inspires my design work.

SVB: What are some of your personal favorites that you’ve designed?

FR: One of my personal favorites is the Fairy Dust shoe. It is such a beautiful design and incorporates so many lovely details. It is a hand embroidered style with a mother of pearl heel and topped off with a handmade silk flower. Simply stunning.

SVB: Where can brides find your shoes and accessories?

FR: Brides can look to our stockists section of our website freyarose.com/stockists to see where we are stocked across the world. We do however have a showroom in London that brides can visit for personal appointments. Here brides are personally guided through all collections and given our undivided attention so that the experience is the best it can be.

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Spotlight

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Spotlight

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This Page: Darling Short Belt, Darling Long Belt, Hollywood shoes

Left: 1) Blossom Belt, 2) Perdita Belt, 3) Blossom Hair Comb, 4) Reiki Headband, 5) Marya Hair Pins

Inspiration

Morning Garden

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Color story

“I want to do with you what spring does with cherry trees.” - Pablo Neruda

As if of porcelain and quietly sculptural, a girl danced in shafts of light, in the morning garden. The sun was filtered to the palest shades of ecru and apricot in the orangerie. Styling team Pearl & Godiva placed miniature still lives where they just caught the light and created arrangements of treasured finds, pale flowing florals, pure velvets, and organic elegance. Claire Pettibone’s covetable gowns flourished in this scene. On this early March day at the Killruddery House & Gardens, in Co. Wicklow, Ireland, a simple yet opulent vision came together to create these images by Amanda Wilcher.

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Inspiration

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Inspiration

Photography: Amanda Wilcher, amandawilcher.com

Production, Art Direction & Styling: Pearl & Godiva | MUA: Kathryn O’Neill Hair: Michelle O’Halloran | Cakes: The Cake Stand | Florals : The French Touch | Stationery: Lilly Loves | Venue: Killruddery House & Gardens | Gowns: Claire Pettibone from Myrtle Ivory & María Luisa Rabell | Suits: Reiss | Accessories: Earrings & Ring from Evelyn Jewellery | Crown from Eleanor Brown Boutique | Models: Daniel From Morgan The Agency and Hannah from Distinct Model Management | Cinematography: Best Day Productions

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Inspiration

Winter Light 46 | sweetvioletbride.com

Color story

In this elopement styled shoot, a winter scene shows that snow crystals and cooler temps don’t have to mean dreariness, but can mean sparkling light, and fresh, simple style - like snow itself.

Mainly created with shades of white and ecru neutrals, it captures a serene and enchanting atmosphere that radiates love, beauty, and tranquility. Golden pears, rustic florals, and rough edged ribbon complement an elegant settee, grove of pillar candles, and sparkling headpiece, for a perfect balance of the elegant and the organic.

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Inspiration

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Inspiration

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Photography: Shalynne Imaging, shalynneimaging.com

Dress Store: anna bĂŠ bridal boutique | Floral Designer: Bare Root Flora | Event Planner: Cassandra Rose | Event Venue: Castle Cliff Estates | Equipment Rentals: Chairished Vintage Rentals, Event Rents | Invitation Designer: Ezer Calligraphy & Design | Cake Designer: Intricate Icings Cake Design | Veils and headpieces: Lacielle Roselle | Linens and Coverings: Linen Hero by Chair Covers & Linens - Colorado | Makeup Artist: Makeup Madame | Other: Verde Studios

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Inspiration

Garden in the Girl

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Color story

These photographs, especially the double exposures, have instantly transported us to a garden venue we’d never want to leave. The Beaulieu House, in Drogheda, Co. Louth, Ireland has a genuine and authentic style that resonated with styling experts Pearl & Godiva.

“To bring a little gloss to this Old World charm we created a look that was decadent and organic” says the team. The gardens are a dream, with sweeping lawns, a secret walled garden overflowing with flowers, and a stunning potting shed which is more like a fairy grotto, complete with swooping swallows in the rafters. Their choice of coral, blue, and gold provided the perfect pops of color to >>p.57

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Inspiration

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Inspiration

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bring the Grand Hall to life, with luscious florals spilling out of gold urns and mini satellite perfume bottles dotting the length of the table. Pearl & Godiva also discovered the proprietor’s Great Grandmother’s Victorian wedding dress tucked into a drawer while there. Having found a treasure like this was utterly serendipitous – a perfect fit for their model.

Photography: Kait Husmann Photography, kaithusmann.com

*Originally photographed for BASH Magazine and At Your Service (an Irish tv prgramme on RTE One

Venue: Beaulieu House | Creative Direction, Production + Design: Pearl & Godiva | Floral Design: Best of Buds | Hair: Stephen Kelly db Bridal Team at Dylan Bradshaw | Makeup: Sarah Keary db Bridal Team at Dylan Bradshaw | Gowns: Covet | Jewelled Headpiece: Knightsbridge Boutique | Victorian Antique Gown: Family heirloom of Beaulieu House | Bespoke Cake: The Cake Stand | Jewelry: Delphi Antiques | Bespoke Stationery: Pretty As A Picture | Props: Pearl & Godiva | Lighting: Creative Event Lighting | Model: Alicia from Distinct Models Management

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Golden Glow Inspiration

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Color story

The tone of a wedding is often based on the color selection of the florals, and after having seen a lot of the same requests again and again, floral designer Anna Le Pley Taylor wanted to create a shoot with a fresh take on colors. The deep antique gold and pale yellows are reminiscent of a late summer afternoon when the light casts that magical glow. This shoot also departs from the overdone “rustic” style that has been all over Pinterest lately by returning to a chic elegance that still hints at that nature inspired feel. The lavish spilling tablecloth and full romantic wedding dress by the lakeside is reminiscent of the old, lush south, yet the groom’s white suit, glass plates, ghost chairs, and Lucite cake stand adds a touch of modern edge.

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Inspiration

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Inspiration

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Inspiration

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Photography: Diana McGregor, www.dianamcgregor.com

Coordination: Jill & Co Events | Floral Design: Anna Le Pley Taylor | Hair + MUA: Melina Ruiz | Dress: Mikaella by Paloma Blanca from The Dress | Groom’s Attire: Suit from H&M, shoes from Nordstrom, Cole Haan | Stationery: Honey Paper | Rentals: Town & Country Event Rentals| Linens: La Tavola Linen| Models: New Mark Models (Makayla Marie, David Doehring)

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Inspiration

Plum pretty 66 | sweetvioletbride.com

Color story

This fresh, lively garden party styled wedding is full of so many gorgeous shades of plum that it makes us swoon. These lovely colors are brought into the palette by way of deep grape, fig, and blackberry fruits. Organic florals such as fuchsia tulips, lavender roses, and dark scabiosa compliment lush greenery including purple-streaked kale for the tables. We love the idea of using fruit and greenery as a natural candle stand down the center of the table to hold handmade candlesticks in a unique color, such as the violet ones seen here.

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Inspiration

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Inspiration

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Photography: Shalynne Imaging, shalynneimaging.com

Floral Design: Mainstreet Flower | Event Planner: Marilee & Grace Wedding + Event | Dress Store: The Bridal Connection | Hair Stylist: Cassandra Rose | Makeup: Makeup Madame | Tuxedo and Men’s Attire: ASOS | Venue: The Villa Parker Event Center | Cake: Indulge Bakery, Inc. | Caterer: Three Tomatoes Catering | Rentals: Chairished Vintage Rentals and Event Rents | Invitation Designer: Ezer Calligraphy & Design

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Inspiration

European Courtyard

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Color story

Add the wild beauty of vines to any courtyard wall and it is instantly a magical place for a romantic dinner, gathering, or celebration. In this European style courtyard, vine-encased walls create a fitting backdrop for some seriously stunning florals with white ranunculus, roses, tulips, and flowing ivy. The old world charm of pretty blue china meets the modern texture of artichokes at each place setting, which also make perfect all-natural place card holders. Sections of a pristine three-tier cake are expertly painted with vintage blue artwork inspired by the plates. A vintage inspired beaded sheath gown and handsome blue suit are just the ticket for this charming scene.

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Inspiration

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Inspiration

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Photography: Alixann Loosle, alixannlooslephotography.com

Planning + Design: Attention 2 Detail Events | Florals: La Fete Floral | Hair + Makeup: Hair & Makeup by Steph | Dress: Gateway Bridal | Stationery: Peter Loves Jane | Cake: Layers Cake | Groom’s Suit: Urbana Custom | Rentals: Diamond Rental | Models: Brooks Forester and Blake Bradley

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Real Weddings

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Barry + Natelee Kleinevalleij, South Africa 01-24-2014 An “upside down cake” is how Natelee first described their wedding at Festa, Kleinevalleij. As a wedding photographer herself, she had seen it all and knew exactly the atmosphere she wanted for her own big day: Organic, Natural, Earthy, and Relaxed.

Barry and Natelee met when they both worked at Land Rover as sales executives about 8 years ago. After 6 years they got engaged on 5 July 2013 in quite an unusual way. Natelee tells the story: “We started our own little soup kitchen in our hometown. That Friday evening one of my best friends, Elzaan, joined us. When the goods were delivered, we went back home for some inedible chicken skewers, (which I forgot in the oven) and red wine. We were just relaxing, enjoying ourselves and chatting away – then all of a sudden Barry was down on one knee! He proposed with my late grandmother’s ring. It was extremely special having a friend there to share the moment with.”

For their big day of course the photography was also key. They did their “first look” in a secret location, giving them enough time to do their couple’s shoot before the celebrations started. “Standing

in the middle of an olive orchard, Barry anxiously waited to see his bride for the first time,” says photographer Yolande Marx. “I couldn’t wait for him to see how beautiful she looked in a dress handmade by her mom. She was even stitched into it to make sure it fit exactly right. It was so detailed and delicate and the color absolutely gorgeous.”

After their first look, they joined their guests at Festa, entering in Natelee’s dad’s old 1968 Renault R6, for a table laden with good food and some lively music floating over the valley. Their ceremony was at sunset and conducted by Barry’s father under a tree in the middle of a very casual lounge area. Natelee lit up with excitement as she saw her custom ring, designed by Barry, for the first time.

Many of the preparations were a family affair. Natelee’s mother, Margot Neser, made her wedding dress. “The last wedding dress she made was her own, so it was very special to share that with her. My grandmother gave me a pearl bracelet on my 21st, which I wore, and I had one of my other gran’s clutches,” says Natelee. Natelee’s sister, Demi-Lee Koen, styled the bride’s and bridesmaids’ hair. >> p.82

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Real Weddings

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Real Weddings

She also made the wedding cake, while the flowers came from Margot’s organic garden and were arranged by Hannes and Maudre of Kraak.

Natelee’s advice is simple: “Don’t sweat the small stuff. Take it all in, it goes by so fast and if something goes wrong its part of the fun memories you’ll have later. Also, book a videographer, it won’t be something you ever regret!”

Photography: Yolande Marx, yolandemarx.co.za

Coordinator: Kraak | Venue: Kleinevalleij| Dress: Mother of the bride | Hair: Demi-Lee Koen (Sister of the bride) | Makeup: Marilese Bruwer | Bridesmaids Dresses: YDE | Groom’s suit: Trinity & Woolworths | Flowers: Mother of the bride | Decor: Goeters | Catering: Festa | DJ: DJ Rene | Band: Nick Marucchi | Photo Booth: Retro Photo Booth | Second Shooter: Zuzi Seoka| Assistant: Rebecca Von Rehn

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Real Weddings

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Ashley + Cheyne Armstrong National Forest, California 06-06-2014 Ashley and Cheyne met at a bar on Valentine’s Day through a mutual friend. Earlier that day, Ashley’s friend Mykel (who ended up having the honor of marrying them) gave her a little valentine that read “I hope you meet the love of your life tonight!” And she certainly did.

Ashley looks back lovingly on their engagement, when they were looking to buy a home together. “My husband is truly so attentive and caring. We had talked about getting married and I think we both knew it was heading in that direction. We had talked about rings too. I worked until about 11pm the night before and came home to a perfectly clean house. We went to bed shortly thereafter and before going to bed I was checking emails and one about the house we wanted. I turned over and Cheyne says “before we buy this house I think we need to be married,” and pulls out this AMAZING ring! I was so happy and in shock and it turned out that he had went through great lengths finding the ring that I had shown him months before.

The happiness of him finding and giving me this perfect ring made the moment even greater. I love Cheyne for the simple fact that he knows me so well, knowing that I am more private and I wouldn’t have liked a huge public proposal. It was just us in the comfort of our

home together and I couldn’t have asked for it any other way.” The next day on their year anniversary they were happy to find they were also approved for the house they wanted!

Their wedding style was natural, bohemian, woodsy, and relaxed. Ashley and Cheyne organized events so that guests could have a three-day getaway – complete with wine tasting and hiking. “We wanted everyone we loved to be in the amazing Armstrong National Forest and see it for its beauty,” says Ashley. Their forest ceremony called for little embellishment: simple lanterns, ivory candles, and a unique aisle rug added just enough to the moss and trees that nature provided. Most every detail was made or provided by close friends and family. From the flower girl dresses made by Ashley’s sister-in-law Summer, to the amazing wood boutonniere crafted by the groom himself (he now sells them at BATTLEWOODmaterial.etsy.com).

For the reception, the party moved to a private residence in beautiful wine country, where they didn’t constrain guests with a seating chart and ensured a laid back vibe with plenty of drinks and food, including some fun food trucks!

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Real Weddings

Photography: Alixann Loosle, alixannlooslephotography.com

Ceremony Venue: Armstrong National Forest in Guernville, California | Reception Venue: Private residence in Santa Rosa, California | Floral: Lokelani Pearl-Webb (family friend) | Bride’s Dress: Maggie Sottero | Hair + Makeup: bride | Headbands: Maggie Sottero and bride | Bridesmaid Dreses: Assorted stores | Flower girl dress: bride’s sister-in-law | Groom’s Attire: vintage, Zara | Groomsmen: Assorted | Bow Ties: made by bride | Rentals: Wine Country Rentals | Rings: Bride’s by Kate Szabone and Groom’s by Point No Point Studio | Food Trucks: Ribs on Wheels and Las Plebes Omar Rivera | Officiant: Mykel Esquivel | Bride + Groom Table: Made by groom | Cakes: local supermarket, Oliver’s Market | Bar + Signage: made by brides stepmother Shelly Larson | DJ: grooms cousin, Shaun Borson

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Real Weddings

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Lauren + Morgan Private Farm, Virginia 05-12-2013 Many years ago when Lauren and Morgan were just two fifth graders, there was a church event at a beautiful farm to kick off the school year. They met that day and have been friends ever since! In their sophomore year of high school they started dating, and in spring of 2013 this inseparable couple was married at the same farm where they first met. Lauren describes their proposal like this: “Morgan and I were headed off for a date night in downtown Fell’s Point and I thought something was suspicious... as we were driving, I nonchalantly reached over and patted his pockets (at least that’s how I tell it, he said he totally knew what I was doing!) and I didn’t feel a box, so then I thought I was just being crazy! The whole night I tried avoiding the subject of getting married, while he kept bringing it up! It was so much fun! We ended up just walking all around Baltimore that night grabbing dinner and dessert, and after dessert we started talking about our grandkids one day! When we got up to leave he got down on one knee! Morgan says that he’s never heard a squeal like that come out of me before. It was such an incredible night, and we actually just celebrated the 2 year of our ‘engage-versary’ this fall.”

The private Virginia farm was the perfect location for their handmade, country chic details. A teal and blush pastel cake with whimsical angled tiers, wildflowers, and a sturdy tree trunk base is one of the most stunning we’ve seen this year! Water cans filled with wildflowers, a ceremony arch built of wood and vines, chalkboard signs, and burlap table runners also made an appearance. “I know that this is cliché but Pinterest definitely helped mold my ideas,” says Lauren.

“I saw a ton of stuff that I thought I wanted to pull off from there, but was surprised that most of the ideas we settled on were from other places! The one big part of our day that was from Pinterest was the hay bale with the letter “S” on it. The rest we came up with and made together.” Lauren’s favorite detail of the day was the paint dart-board, inspired by the scene in the Princess Diaries when Mia’s mom paints by throwing darts at balloons! “We wanted our wedding to be fun and this was a perfect way to pull it off.”

The two did indeed have a fun-filled day until the very end when they exited with a marshmallow send-off. Guests tossed oversized marshmallows at the couple for a creative take on the typical rice, seeds, or sparklers exit.

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Real Weddings

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Real Weddings

Photography: Katelyn James Photography, katelynjames.com

Venue: private family farm in Virginia | Floral Design: Blossom and Boutique | Dress: Betsy Robinson Bridal Boutique | Bridesmaid Dresses: Francesca’s Collections | Cardigan: Nordstrom | Earrings: LimonBijoux | Shoes: Madewell | Hair Piece: DIY | Groom + Groomsmen Attire: Kohls and Ties. com | Tent Rental + Tables & Chairs: Elite Tent and Events | Cake: Groom’s Aunt | Catering: Famous Dave’s

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Samantha + Donovan Omena, Michigan 09-28-2013 These two met when Samantha and a friend mischievously borrowed some four-wheelers from Donovan’s yard (he was a neighbor of her friend), and managed to get them stuck in the pond. “We walked up to his house covered from head to toe in mud to explain ourselves.

I instantly had a crush but ignored it because I was 12,” says Samantha. Three years later they had drivers training together and the first moment their eyes met it was love. “When I think of the way I felt in that moment I still get all weak in the knees,” says Samantha. After seven years of dating Donovan proposed with a 1920s sapphire engagement ring on a hike with their sheepdog, Otis, near Rock Creek, Montana.

On a late September day at Cherry Basket Farm in Omena, Michigan, Samantha and Donovan tied the knot among rolling green hills and birch trees with falling yellow leaves. They focused their details on their love of nature, history, and good food. Guests traveled from all over the globe for a weekend of festivities. “Friday night we ate bbq and watched Moonrise Kingdom in the forest. It was magical,” says Samantha. “Saturday I woke up in the most beautiful bedroom in a 1800s cottage and looked out the window and it was like

a dream. The weather was perfect, the sun was shining and the lake was so sparkly. My fairytale was real and it was happening.”

Guests sat on hay bales with a vintage throw and cups of cider to keep warm at the ceremony. Samantha and her bridesmaids went barefoot and she fondly remembers saying their vows. “It was so magical looking around at the beautiful farm, seeing 70 of our closest friends and family and hearing the bagpipes in the distance. I noticed Donovan was wearing the tie clip I bought him after our engagement with the latitude and longitude of where we got engaged (Rock Creek, Montana); I touched it and he smiled so big… I could see everything from our relationship rush through both of our heads at the same time. Such a surreal moment.”

Food was a very important detail and finalizing their menu was one of the first things they crossed off their list. They served all of their favorites and everything was local/farm to table, starting with a delicious pumpkin soup.

Samantha, the owner of the recently launched online shop Grain (shopgrain.com), found her 1930s wedding dress at one of her favorite vintage shops, Dear Golden. Her reception >> p.100

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Real Weddings dress was a fun 50s party dress made for twirling. Bridesmaids were tom gold twig bracelets from Dallas Maynard. Samantha’s mantra for each assigned a decade that suited them best from the 1920s to ‘70’s dealing with wedding imperfections: “Go with the flow and surrender and they got to pick their ivory dresses. They were styled with cus- to what it is.”

Photography: Michelle March, michellemarch.com

Venue: Cherry Basket Farm | Videography: Lonetree Productions | Flowers: FiftyFlowers | Wedding Dress: Dear Golden | Cake: Chimoski Bakery | Shoes: Anthropologie | Engagement Ring: Ageless Heirlooms | Wedding Bands: Dallas Maynard | Catering: Cherry Basket Farm | Hair And Makeup: Emily White | DJ: Eternal Entertainment Group | Grooms Suit: Brooks Brothers | Belt: BHLDN | Bow Ties And Ties: Fox And Brie | Cake Topper And Signs: First Snowfall | Groom’s Suspenders: Sun Mark Studio | Grooms Wedding Band: Hersteller | Pinetree Favors: Green World Project | Reception Dress: Lived In | Rentals: Fancy Fray | Ring Box: End Grain Wood Shop | Tie Clip:Spiffing Jewelry | Veil: Lost Girls Vintage | Vintage Stamps: Darling One | Wedding Invitation: Ello There

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Amanda + Christopher Andalusia, Alabama 05-03-2014 Though Amanda and Christopher were acquaintances in high school and had several mutual friends, they went their separate ways to college and it wasn’t until seven years later, in Peru that their story would truly begin. Christopher was in Peru as a Peace Corp volunteer and messaged Amanda on Facebook one day in February 2012.

“We began chatting about his experiences and my current teaching position. I learned that he was working on a book project, starting a library at a school that had no books, and also for the local orphanage,” says Amanda. She immediately wanted to help, and started collecting books in Spanish through Scholastic. Feelings developed over their long emails, Skype conversations, and phone calls. “We were both falling in love but in the strangest of ways! With almost 400 books collected, I decided I would hand deliver the books that summer, looking for an adventure and wanting to see if these feelings were real. When I visited that June for two and a half weeks, it was truly like a fairy tale.”

They traveled Peru together and both knew there was something special between them. They volunteered at the orphanage, delivered the books to the school, and enjoyed all Peru had to of-

fer together. They continued long distance for a year after completing his Peace Corp assignment, he returned home in July of 2013 to Niceville, FL where Amanda was living. Five months later, he proposed in front of both their families over Christmas Eve Dinner. That same weekend they traveled to an out of town concert and on a whim on their trip back they decided to stop at the little bed and breakfast in the small town of Andalusia, Alabama that would become their wedding venue. “Although we looked at many venues back home in the ever popular beach town of Destin Florida, nothing felt quite “as right” when compared to the Sweet Gum Bottom.

We opted for a morning wedding in the small wooden chapel and had a brunch reception filled with our favorite foods in the beautiful garden surrounded by our closest family and friends,” says Amanda.

During the reception guests enjoyed sweet tea, acoustic music, yard games, and a biscuit bar with fresh jams and jellies. The naked wedding cake was three tiers of pound cake with buttercream frosting and fresh summer berries. The tables were adorned with teacup arrangements put together by my mother in law and childhood photos of the bride and groom. Succulents were potted >> p.106

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Real Weddings

in individual planters for favors and even the puppies got milk bone treats to celebrate. When leaving the guests “showered the couple with love and lavender.”

Photography: Ais Portraits, aisportraits.com

Venue + Catering: Sweet Gum Bottom Bed & Breakfast | Floral: Silk flowers by groom’s Aunt | Dress: Renee’s Bridal, Pensacola | Shoes: Audrey Brooke Taylor Pumps in Champagne | Bridesmaid Dresses: Angelina Faccenda by Mori Lee | Makeup: Zulayka Cintron | Hair: Jennifer Silver | Accessories: borrowed from friends and family, veil from bride’s mother (shortened from a cathedral length) | Cake + Desserts: Simone’s Cafe & Confectionary | Centerpieces, chapel decor, chandelier: Lori Varner | Groom’s Attire: Jos A. Banks | Favors: Put together by Groom’s mom | Invitations: DIY, Michael’s

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Rosemary + Steve McKenzie Bridge, Oregon 09-20-2014 In February of 2009 both Rosemary and Steve were applying to graduate school. It was one of those years that some might say the stars aligned, that special things happened. It was the only year the university interviewed clinical psychology applicants like Rosemary, and non-clinical psychology applicants like Steve on the same weekend, so they felt very lucky to have crossed paths and met this way.

Five years later they were married in the woods near the beautiful McKenzie River.

“We both wanted an outdoor wedding and found a venue we loved that was very private,” says Rosemary. “Somewhere where we could have the whole place to ourselves to relax with our guests for the weekend.” To create that homey atmosphere, they set up lawn games in the reception area for daytime use and fire rings with s’more for after dark. “The only decoration I knew I wanted to have going into the wedding planning process were 1,000 origami cranes to honor Steve’s Japanese heritage. Folding those, and making all of the other decorations – including vintage handkerchief bunting, star garlands, paper flowers, and table numbers and other signage – was

a welcome break from my work as a doctoral student.”

Rosemary’s bouquet was made of naturally gathered wildflowers in shades of pink, fuchsia, and white, and her long hair was braided up into a crown with little sprigs of baby’s breath – the perfect complement to her lace-shouldered gown. A pair of Franco Sarto heels made for a fun pop of color and her something blue. The rest of the wedding party dressed in shades of classy, river-rock gray. That night they dined outside, danced under twinkle lights and strands of stars, and enjoyed gluten-free vegan cupcakes.

The couple hosted a brunch the day after the wedding, which was a great opportunity to spend a bit more time with guests. Because they were 50 miles outside of town, delivery expenses would have been substantial to have it catered. What they did instead was order a couple of quiches, an assortment of pastries, and two extra fruit platters from the caterers who did their wedding. They brought it with them on the day of the wedding, and then all they had to do the following morning was bring out the food, brew some coffee, and heat up water for tea!

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Photography: Amanda K Photo Art, amandakphotoart.com

Venue: Loloma Lodge | Flowers: Elizabeth Quinn-Duncan | Dress: Lindsay Pritchard | Bride’s Shoes: Franco Sarto | Earrings: LeChaim | Makeup + Hair + Nails: Caitlin Quinn | Groom’s Suit: Duchess Clothier | Groom’s Shoes: Allen Edmonds | DIY Wedding Bands: Panurgic | Catering: Carte Blanche | Cupcakes: The Divine Cupcake

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DIY

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Cherry Blossom Branch Y DI excerpted from

The Exquisite Book of Paper Flowers A Guide to Making Unbelievably Realistic Paper Blooms

by Livia Cetti Photos by Addie Juell

I work with many October brides-to-be who long to have branches with bright, spring blooms for their weddings. The answer, of course, is to make the flowers in paper. If you attach them to real branches, you still get the natural gesture and feel of the plants, something that is difficult to replicate if you were using wire alone. These instructions are for a small branch, and I suggest you make five blossoms and two bud balls, but this number can be easily adjusted to fit the size of your branch.

FINISHED SIZE Approximately 12” (30.5 cm) GENERAL MATERIALS • Scissors • Small zigzag scissors • Fringing shears (optional) • Brown floral tape • 12” (30.5 cm) long bare branch, any type • Hot glue gun • Hot glue sticks

FOR PETALS • Two 3” x 20” (7.5 x 50 cm) strips raspberry, salmon, or fuschia tissue paper, dip-dye bleached FOR CHERRY BUD BALLS • 20” x 30” (50 x 76 cm) sheet raspberry, salmon, or fuschia tissue paper FOR CHERRY CENTERS • 5 double-headed yellow stamen filaments • 2” x 20” (5 x 50 cm) strip soft green tissue paper

The country’s premiere paper-flower artist, Livia Cetti is known for her high-style, gorgeous tissue and crepe-paper flowers—many of which are often mistaken for real flowers. The Exquisite Book of Paper Flowers is Cetti’s comprehensive how-to manual showcasing her until-now secret techniques for creating 27 popular blooms, including peonies, poppies, roses, and hibiscus. Clear instructions and stunning step-by-step photographs show crafters of all levels how to make individual flowers as well as how to combine blooms to form 20 exquisite garlands, centerpieces, wreaths, corsages, and boutonnieres.

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DIY A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

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Directions 1. PPREPARE MATERIALS (A): Photocopy or trace the Cherry/Tuberose Petal template below and cut out the petal shapes.

Cut twenty-five 2" x 3" (5 x 7.5 cm) pieces from the petal tissue strip. Divide them into 5 stacks of 5. Place the petal template on one stack so the top of the petal is at the bleached edge of the paper. Trace the template on the tissue and cut it out to make 5 petals. Use zigzag scissors to trim the top edge of the petal. Repeat with the remaining stacks to make a total of 25 petals.

For the bud balls, cut two 1" x 1" (2.5 x 2.5 cm) squares and two 2" x 2" (5 x 5 cm) squares from the tissue strip. Construct 2 small bud balls. Instructions for this can be found in the main book.

For the centers, fold the 2" x 20" (5 x 50 cm) strip in half lengthwise and cut a 1⁄₂" (12 mm) fringe along the folded edge.

Cut the fringed strip into five 2" (5 cm) pieces. Fold a double-headed yellow stamen filament in half. Tack it together with a 1⁄₂" (12 mm) piece of brown fl oral tape. Wrap the green fringe around the stamen, positioning the fringe so that the stamen extends 1⁄₂" (12 mm) above the fringe. Secure the fringe with floral tape. Repeat to make a total of 5 centers.

2. SHAPE PETALS: To give the petals a cupped shape, add a dart to each (see next page). The 3-point fold for the dart should extend from the bottom of the petal to 1⁄₂" (12 mm) from the top (B). The base of the dart fold should measure about 1⁄₄" (6 mm) across and taper to a point (C). Repeat with the remaining petals. Gently pinch the base of each petal to give it a cupped appearance (d).

3. ASSEMBLE BLOOMS: Each Cherry bloom is composed of 5 petals. Attach the bottom end of a petal to a center with floral tape ( e ) , wrapping and winding the tape down and around the center, about 1" (2.5 cm) beyond the base. Place the next petal alongside the first, overlapping their edges by 1⁄₄" (6 mm) in a radiating fashion and encircling the center.

Wrap the base with floral tape. (Note that this layer of tape and all tape for petals overlaps the layer underneath.) Repeat with 3 additional petals until the overhead view of the flower resembles a spiral. Fluff and open the bloom, adjusting the petals as needed. Repeat with the remaining petals and centers to make a total of 5 blooms, varying the amount of fl uffi ng so that some blooms are more open than others for a more natural look.

4. ASSEMBLE BRANCH: Trim the bottom of each bloom and bud with scissors, leaving a 1⁄₄" (6 mm) base ( F ) .

Prepare the branch by removing any natural leaves, buds, or fl owers. Trim any broken pieces and cut the branch to the desired length. Plan the placement of the blooms and buds—for example, in the crook of a stem or in an uneven row down the branch. I like to create small groups or clusters of blooms and buds. Place a small amount of hot glue on the base of a bloom (G) and, working quickly, hold the bloom to the branch while the glue dries (H). Repeat with the remaining blooms ( I ) . Add the buds in same way.

VARIATION: If you’d like to make Quince blossoms instead of Cherry, substitute the Begonia/Quince Petal template below for the Cherry Petal template in step 1. To create the branch with fuller doublecherry blossoms, use filament centers instead of cherry centers, and use 10 petals per bloom.

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Bouquet Recipe This green and white bouquet was put together by Kim, of Petal Pixie, and is a gorgeous arrangement of romantic flora and textural intrigue. It includes some popular spring blooms like anemone, hellebores, and ranunculus, as well as slightly less expected ingredients such as cotton, artichokes, privet berries, and succulents. We think it is a perfect rustic bouquet for winter or spring!

Bouquet by Petal Pixie Photos by Alixann Loosle

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DIY

Anemone Privet Berry

Statice

Cotton

Dusty Miller

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Ranunculus

Artichoke

Seeded Eucalyptus

Hellebore

Pitt

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DIY

Stationery by www.statusserigraph.com

TIP: Change the look of your bouquet while keeping true to the style of this one by using a different colored berry (i.e. red hypericum, or pink pepperberry) and adding a ribbon in the color of your choice. Ribbon texture and length can also add much personality to your bouquet. Do you see yourself with a wrapped ribbon handle, or a long flowing ribbon or a ribbon with multiple long streamers?

Velvet, lace, satin, silk? Look for unique vintage ribbons from sources such as www.etsy.com/shop/FiniRibbon or vintagepassementerie.com.

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Wreath Recipes From quince branches to sprigs of pine, you can make most anything that grows into a beautiful wreath for your home or for a special event. Wreaths look lovely at the entryway or backdrop of your cermony area, on the backs of chairs, on doors, or hung from trees at a reception area. The following organically styled wreaths are just a taste of what you will find in the pages of The Wreath Recipe Book by Alethea Harampolis and Jill Rizzo. Their visually stunning book also contains photography by Paige Green and dozens of other simple project ideas you can make with the same ingredients, from garlands and centerpieces to place settings and swags. They’ll have you making fresh creations four seasons of the year, with advice on what tools to use, cutting, attaching, and arranging techniques. - NF

salal

ranunculus

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rosemary

quince

kumquat

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the quince wreath Dried honeysuckle vines 1 quince branch 4 stems of salal 2 branches of kumquat

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the waxflower wreath 10 waxflower branches 5 magnolia branches 5 pine springs 10 stems of hypericum

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the camellia wreath 4 stems of heather 1 camellia branch 5 anemones

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the juniper wreath

8 heavy bare branches 8 juniper branches 5 winter bud branches 9 wired cymbidium orchid blooms 7 wired air plants

Excerpted from The Wreath Recipe Book by Alethea Harampolis and Jill Rizzo (Artisan Books).

Copyright Š 2014. Photographs by Paige Green.

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DIY

Floral Dessert Recipes recipes excerpted from

Cooking with Flowers

by Miche Bacher of Mali B Sweets Photos by Miana Jun

Flowers can do so much more than look pretty! Though let’s face it, these recipes are undeniably gorgeous. Many kinds of flowers and herbs can be used in sweet and savory recipes that look and taste great, plus they’re good for you.

Flowers are high in nutrients, especially vitamin C and antioxidants! These recipes by Miche Bacher are perfect for your nature inspired event and we’re excited to be able to share two of them with you here. Be sure to check out her book for many more culinary delights! - NF

Cooking With Flowers

Sweet and Savory Recipes with Rose Petals, Lilacs, Lavender, and Other Edible Flowers Here are more than 100 recipes that will bring beautiful flower-filled dishes to your kitchen table!

This easy-to-use cookbook is brimming with scrumptious botanical treats, from sweet violet cupcakes, pansy petal pancakes, daylily cheesecake, and rosemary flower margaritas to savory sunflower chickpea salad, chive blossom vinaigrette, herb flower pesto, and mango orchid sticky rice. *These recipes are reprinted with permission from Quirk Books

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\Violet Flower Cupcakes

Like tiny snowcapped mountains, these cupcakes capture your heart. They look delicate and airy but have the texture and crumb of a perfect pound cake, with a sweet violet jam surprise inside. Makes 18 cupcakes.

Cupcakes: 3 cups cake flour, sifted 1¹/₄ teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature 2¹/₄ cups sugar 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 4 egg whites 1 cup coconut milk (half of one 14-ounce can plus 2 teaspoons) Frosting and Topping: ¹/₃ cup violet jam (page 180) 3 cups violet buttercream (page 184) 1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes About 24 candied violets (page 176) 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line the wells of 18 muffin cups with cupcake liners.

2. In a bowl, whisk to combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Beat butter and sugar in another bowl with a mixer on medium-high speed for 5 minutes, until light and fluffy, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Add vanilla and beat for 1 minute more.

4. Add egg whites to butter mixture one at a time, beating like crazy after each addition to lighten the batter and pausing to scrape down the sides of the bowl. This should take about 5 minutes in all.

5. Beat in flour mixture and coconut milk in alternating additions, starting and ending with flour mixture; do not overmix. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a tester inserted in the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Let cool.

6. Place coconut flakes in a small bowl. Cut a cone-shaped piece of cake out of the top of each cooled cupcake and drop a dollop of violet jam into the well. Replace the caps on the cupcakes. Top each with a generous dollop of buttercream, and dip in coconut flakes. Top cupcakes with candied violets and serve.

Easy Homemade Cupcake Liners For cups like the ones shown here, cut 6-inch squares of parchment paper. Turn a glass with a 2-inch diameter upside down. Place a parchment square on top and mold it by sliding your hands down and around the glass. Drop parchment cups into a cupcake pan and fill them with batter.

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DIY

\Tulip Ice Cream Bowls

There are plenty of edible ice cream containers out there, but none so fetching as a tulip. A lovely tulip brimming with creamy ice cream is a sight to behold. I like to add a couple of fresh berries and a splash of tulip syrup. Serves 4.

4 tulip blossoms, stamens and pistils removed 4 large or 12 small scoops ice cream 1 pint fresh berries Several tablespoons tulip syrup (recipe on page 177 of her book) Tulips make pretty edible bowls for ice creams, sorbets, and salads.

Prop each tulip in a container that will help it stand upright, such as an eggcup or a champagne flute. Place 1 large scoop (or 3 small scoops) ice cream in each tulip. Drizzle a little tulip syrup over each and place a few fresh berries on the top.

Serve immediately!

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You can find many more delicious recipes are in the book! Such as this Coconut Lilac Tapioca (left ). Or the Elderflower Blueberry Cobbler (middle) and Borage Spritzer and Borage Lemonade (right).

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Directory WEDDING & EVENT PLANNERS

CAKES & CATERING

ATTENTION 2 DETAIL EVENTS info@attention2detailevents.com attention2detailevents.com Salt Lake City + beyond

CHIMOSKI BAKERY (231) 271-2207 chimoskibakery.com Suttons Bay, MI

CEDARWOOD WEDDINGS info@historiccedarwood.com cedarwoodweddings.com Tennessee

INDULGE BAKERY info@indulgebakery.com indulgebakery.com Lafayette, Colorado

JILL & CO EVENTS jill@jillandcoevents.com jillandcoevents.com California + Nationwide MARILEE & GRACE events@marileegrace.com marileegrace.com Colorado

EVENT & EDITORIAL STYLING PEARL & GODIVA studio@pearlandgodiva.com pearlandgodiva.com Worldwide

FASHION, JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES BETH CYR beth@bethcyr.com bethcyr.com Nationwide BRENT & JESS info@brentjess.com brentjess.com Nationwide FREYA ROSE info@freyarose.com freyarose.com London + Worldwide JANAY A ECO BRIDAL (866) 900-6565 janay-a.com Kansas + Nationwide NIKOLAEV DESIGNS kim@nikolaevdesigns.com nikolaevdesigns.com Nationwide VENA AMORIS venaamorisjewelry.com tesia@venaamorisjewelry.com NY + Nationwide VIOLETTE & IRIS info@violetteandiris.com violetteandiris.com Worldwide

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INTRICATE ICINGS CAKE DESIGN cakes@intricateicings.com intricateicings.com Denver, CO

SIMONE’S CAFE & CONFECTIONERY (334) 582-2233 Andalusia, AL THE CAKE STAND iseult@thecakestand.ie thecakestand.ie Dublin, Ireland THE DIVINE CUPCAKE (541) 543-5757 divinecupcake.com Eugene, OR

FLORAL DESIGN BEST OF BUDS buds@thebestofbuds.ie thebestofbuds.ie Cork, Ireland ANNA LE PLEY TAYLOR info@annalepleytaylor.com annalepleytaylor.com California BARE ROOT FLORA info@barerootflora.com barerootflora.com Colorado + Nationwide LA FETE allison.baddley@gmail.com allisonbaddley.com Salt Lake City, Utah PETAL PIXIE kim@petalpixie.com petalpixie.com USA + Worldwide STUDIO CHOO hello@studiochoo.com studiochoo.com California + Nationwide

THE FRENCH TOUCH flowers@thefrenchtouch.ie thefrenchtouch.ie Clane, Ireland

AMANDA WILCHER shootme@amandawilcher.com amandawilcher.com Chicago | NYC | London + Worldwide

EVENT VENUES

DIANA MCGREGOR diana@dianamcgregor.com dianamcgregor.com California + Worldwide

BEAULIEU HOUSE info@beaulieuhouse.ie

beaulieuhouse.ie Co. Louth, Ireland

CASTLE CLIFF ESTATES (720) 222-9492 Ext. 2 castlecliffestates.com Sedalia, Colorado CHERRY BASKET FARM (231) 360-0042 caterleelanau.com Omena, Michigan KILLRUDDERY HOUSE & GARDENS kilruddery.com Co. Wicklow, Ireland Kleinevalleij kleinevalleij.co.za South Africa LOLOMA LODGE (541) 822-6231 lolomalodge.com Blue River, OR SWEET GUM BOTTOM B&B info@sweetgumbottom.com sweetgumbottom.com Andalusia, AL TREEHOUSE POINT weddings@treehousepoint.com treehousepoint.com Fall City, Washington

PHOTOGRAPHY AIS PORTRAITS ais@aisportraits.com aisportraits.com Florida + Worldwide ALIXANN LOOSLE aloosle@live.com alixannlooslephotography.com Utah + Nationwide AMANDA K amandakphotoart.com/inquire amandakphotoart.com Oregon + Worldwide

KAIT HUSMANN creative@kaithusmann.com kaithusmann.com Cork, Ireland KATELYN JAMES katelynjamesblog.com/contact katelynjames.com Virginia + Nationwide MICHELLE MARCH info@michellemarch.com michellemarch.com Florida + Nationwide SHALYNNE IMAGING shalynneimaging@gmail.com shalynneimaging.com Colorado + Nationwide YOLANDE MARX info@yolandemarx.co.za yolandemarx.co.za South Africa + Worldwide

INVITATIONS & STATIONERY INVITATIONS BY DAWN (800) 257-9567 invitationsbydawn.com USA + Canada NIGHT OWL PAPER GOODS (205) 868-1619 nightowlpapergoods.com Alabama + Worldwide

HONEYMOON & TRAVEL TREEHOUSE POINT weddings@treehousepoint.com treehousepoint.com Fall City, Washington

DIY RESOURCES Cooking with Flowers

by Miche Bacher The Exquisite Book of Paper Flowers

by Livia Cetti The Wreath Recipe Book by Alethea Harampolis and Jill Rizzo

NATURAL BEAUTY 100% Pure 100percentpure.com Acure acureorganics.com Alima Pure alimapure.com Au Naturale aunaturaleglow.com BITE Beauty bitebeauty.com Burt’s Bees burtsbees.com Butter London butterlondon.com Caudalie us.caudalie.com Clarisonic clarisonic.com Cote coteshop.co Dessert Essence dessertessence.com Éminence eminenceorganics.com/us Evanhealy evanhealy.com Everyday Minerals everydayminerals.com Fig + Yarrow figandyarrow.com Genfiore genfiore.com Givescent givescent.com Intelligent Nutrients intelligentnutrients.com jane iredale janeiredale.com Josie Maran josiemarancosmetics.com Juice Beauty juicebeauty.com

Julep julep.com

Vapour Organic Beauty vapourbeauty.com

Jurlique jurlique.com

VERB verbproducts.com

Just Natural justnaturalskincare.com

Vered veredbotanicals.com

Kypris kyprisbeauty.com Mineral Fusion mineralfusion.com Nourish Organic nourishorganic.com NVEY ECO nveyeco.com OFRA Cosmetics ofracosmetics.com

Find more great resources on the blog in our

Violet Vendor Guide!

sweetvioletbride.com/violet-vendor-guide

Olivia Garden oliviagarden.com One Love Organics oneloveorganics.com Pacifica pacificabeauty.com Phenomé phenomeus.com Pour le Monde pourlemondeparfums.com PritiNYC pritinyc.com

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Photo by Alixann Loosle

Sweet Moments

Sweet Moment: Ashley + Cheyne have a first look before their ceremony in the woods. See their real wedding on page 84.

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