The Knot Magazine - Spring 2022 by The Knot

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WEDDINGS

SPRING 2022

O PENS UP ON LOVE , O LY M P I A N L I F E + H OW S H E STAYS GROUNDED

STRESS-FREE

planning secrets

YO U R C U R AT E D S P RING 2 0 2 2

wellness registry

T H E U LT I M AT E

self-care beauty regimen

22 the

T H E B R I D G E RT O N INSPIRED DRESSES O F YO U R D R E A M S

hottest trends

OF THE YEAR

THEKNOT.COM

plus OUR EPIC S P R I N G R U N WAY REPORT

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12/20/21 10:09 AM

Creating Love Stories For

40 Y EA RS

LET US BE A PART OF YOURS Sandals® Resorts has been there to usher countless brides and grooms to their happily-ever-afters with Luxury Included® Honeymoons of a lifetime. We’ve created millions of fairytale moments for newlyweds to revel in the romance of it all — afternoon hors d’oeuvres served by a butler at their private plunge pool, riding the waves on a Hobie® Cat built for two, dancing around a bonfire at water’s edge — all while we took care of the details. Because the best love stories are the ones where real life is better than any fairytale. *Visit www.sandals.com/disclaimers/theknotspring2022 or call 1.800.SANDALS for important terms and conditions. Sandals® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations Inc, is an affiliate of Unique Travel Corp., the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts.

JAS I G N AT U R E .C O M

www.morilee.com

ALLISON N

WEBB O

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inesdisanto.com

12/9/21 / / 8:07 AM

ENJOY A

DREAM

HONEYMOON WHERE EVERYTHING’S INCLUDED!

MAKE MEMORIES TO HAVE AND TO HOLD. At Beaches® Resorts you can celebrate the most special time of your life with the people who mean the most to you. Best of all, after your magical wedding day, the two of you can slip off to a private honeymoon in some of the most romantic suites in the Caribbean. Enjoy every land and water sport under the sun, including a scuba program* voted Top 5 in the Western Hemisphere by PADI®. Indulge in 5-Star Global Gourmet™ dining at up to 22 exceptional restaurants serving unlimited pours of premium liquors. Even the tips, taxes, and Beaches transfers* are included. So while you celebrate your love, your loved ones will enjoy their own unforgettable celebration, too! *Visit www.beaches.com/disclaimers/theknotspring2022bch or call 1-800-BEACHES for important terms and conditions. ® Beaches is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc. is an affiliate of Unique Travel Corp., the worldwide representative of Beaches Resorts.

YOUR BEACHES HONEYMOON INCLUDES*: A BUBBLY WELCOME A bottle of chilled sparkling wine elegantly arranged in your room upon arrival to toast your future. A ROMANTIC GESTURE A special turndown service on an evening of your honeymoon. WAKE UP TO WEDDED BLISS Delight in a delivery of fresh flowers and a decadent breakfast in bed one morning of your choice.

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YEARS IN A ROW TRAVEL AWARDS

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JAMAICA • TURKS & CAICOS

CONTENTS

WE’RE FEELING

2022 F E AT U R E S 34

HEART OF GOLD Sydney McLaughlin dishes on running and wedding planning.

RUNWAY REPORT Catwalk looks (from ruffles to puff sleeves) to add to your celebration.

ARBORETUM AFFAIR A seamless blend of Chinese and Western nuptials.

CARE- CUR ATED REGISTRY

110

REGENCY REVIVAL Calling all Bridgerton fans—you’ll love these high-society gowns.

120

TRIPS TO AWAKEN THE SENSES What if you let your senses dictate your honeymoon plans?

Olympian Sydney McLaughlin has been training for her wedding day her whole life. Dress, Houghton by Katharine Polk

ANDRE L. PERRY

Wellness-focused picks to begin newlywed life on a healthy note.

Cherish Every Moment Celebrate life’s special chapters with platinum ever&ever® bands.

Rings featured, clockwise from left: 123593, 123631, 123629, F7, KER7 To locate a jeweler in your area, visit everandever.com. @everandeverbridal | #EverAndEverBride

CONTENTS

SPRING 2022

REAL LOVE 85

One-of-a-kind reallife celebrations to inspire every couple.

FA S H I O N + B E AU T Y BEAUTY BEAT We’ve got the deets on trending beauty looks, plus how to pull them off.

RING TONES For an unexpected look, go bold with a colored center stone.

I N E V E RY I S S U E

110 BOOK THIS VENUE WITH Did you fall in love with the NYIT de Seversky Mansion’s Georgian Revival architecture? Find out how you can book this grand estate for your own nuptials by visiting The Knot Marketplace.

BEAUTY AS SELF- CARE

Nine ways to turn your prewedding beauty regimen into a wellness experience.

24 26 28 30 32 41 82 14 4

EDITOR’S LETTER CONTRIBUTORS ADVICE TR ADITIONS ESSAY NEW + NOW TOOLS LAST LOOK

STYLE + PLANNING 63

22 TRENDS FOR 2022 Our favorite ideas for the new year.

PLANNING PITFALLS THAT DR AIN YOU Sidestep these common snags with our tips.

123 ON THE COVER Dress, Morilee by Madeline Gardner; earrings, Verstolo PHOTOGRAPHER Andre L. Perry FASHION STYLING Shelley Brown HAIR & MAKEUP Mika Shimoda for Dior Beauty at Art Department

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY OF DESIGNER; TAYO KUKU; COURTESY OF VENDOR (3); KYLEE YEE PHOTOGRAPHY

REAL WEDDINGS

justinalexander.com

E XECUTIVE E D ITO R

Lauren Kay

E D ITO RIAL O PE R ATI O N S MANAG E R S E NI O R FA S HI O N & B E AUT Y E D ITO R E D ITO R , RE AL WE D D IN G S VI S UAL S E D ITO R D E S I G NE R CO NTRIB UTIN G CO PY E D ITO R CO NTRIB UTIN G RE S E ARCH E D ITO R CO NTRIB UTIN G PRO D U C TI O N A S S O CIATE

CRE ATIVE D IREC TO R

Sarah Evans

Jessica Safavimehr Shelley Brown Hannah Nowack Kelsey Pillischer Emma Gray Pitt Cynthia Maureen Keith Bearden Sharon Harvey

THE K N OT.CO M , S O CIAL M E D IA & VID EO

D IREC TO R , D I G ITAL CO NTE NT A S S O CIATE D IREC TO R , D I G ITAL CO NTE NT S TR ATEGY S E NI O R E D ITO R , D I G ITAL S E NI O R E D ITO R , NE WS & CU LTU RE S E NI O R MANAG E R , PE RFO RMAN CE E D ITO RIAL CO NTE NT E D ITO R , D I G ITAL A S S O CIATE E D ITO R , D I G ITAL A S S I S TANT E D ITO R , E - CO M M E RCE D IREC TO R , S O CIAL M E D IA S E NI O R MANAG E R , S O CIAL M E D IA S PECIALI S T, S O CIAL M E D IA CO O RD INATO RS , S O CIAL M E D IA S E NI O R INFLU E N CE R MANAG E R , S O CIAL M E D IA INFLU E N CE R CO O RD INATO R , S O CIAL M E D IA S E NI O R D IREC TO R , CRE ATIVE MARK ETIN G A S S O CIATE D IREC TO R , VID EO PRO D U C TI O N VID EO PRO D U CE R A S S O CIATE VID EO PRO D U CE R A S S O CIATE D I G ITAL E D ITO R , PH OTO VID EO PRO D U C TI O N A S S O CIATE

Morgan Gibson MaryKate Callahan Kim Forrest Esther Lee Emily Platt Samantha Iacia Sarah Hanlon Naoimh O’Hare Whitney Little Clair Belleveau Lucy Ferut Meghan Ho, Kerre Jo Lattanzio Heather Kon Kimberly Brown Jeffra Trumpower Daniela Kelley McInerney Siobhan Carty Olivia DiTomaso Jessica Kane Raul Ferrari

G LO BAL M E D IA S O LUTI O N S @ THE K N OT WO RLDWID E

S E NI O R VI CE PRE S ID E NT, G LO BAL M E D IA S O LUTI O N S S E NI O R D IREC TO R , RE VE N U E O PE R ATI O N S & YIE LD A S S O CIATE D IREC TO R , RE VE N U E O PE R ATI O N S S E NI O R ANALYS T, RE VE N U E O PE R ATI O N S VP, AD SALE S B RIDAL FA S HI O N ACCO U NT D IREC TO R ACCO U NT D IREC TO R , E A S T ACCO U NT E XECUTIVE S , E A S T

ACCO U NT D IREC TO R , PACIFI C ACCO U NT E XECUTIVE , WE S T ACCO U NT D IREC TO R , M IDWE S T ACCO U NT E XECUTIVE , M IDWE S T D IREC TO R , INTEG R ATE D MARK ETIN G A S S O CIATE D IREC TO R , SALE S D E VE LO PM E NT MARK ETIN G MANAG E R , SALE S D E VE LO PM E NT MARKETIN G CO O RD INATO R , SALE S D E VE LO PM E NT MARK ETIN G RE S E ARCH MANAG E R A S S O CIATE D IREC TO R , CRE ATIVE S O LUTI O N S D E PUT Y E D ITO R A S S O CIATE CO NTE NT E D ITO R A S S O CIATE ART D IREC TO R AS SO CIATE G R APHI C D E S I G NE R S O CIAL M E D IA E D ITO R A S S O CIATE S O CIAL M E D IA E D ITO R D IREC TO R , ACCO U NT MANAG E M E NT S E NI O R MANAG E R , ACCO U NT MANAG E M E NT TE AM LE AD S , ACCO U NT MANAG E M E NT

S E NI O R ACCO U NT MANAG E R ACCO U NT MANAG E RS ACCO U NT CO O RD INATO RS

Nicole Aste, naste@theknotww.com Dominique Walker, dwalker@theknotww.com Jenna Bruno, jbruno@theknotww.com Nicholas Saracione, nsaracione@theknotww.com Risa Aronson, raronson@theknotww.com Brett Olsen, bolsen@theknotww.com Cara Goldberg, cgoldberg@theknotww.com Danielle Papalambros, dpapalambros@theknotww.com Debbie Konstadt, dkonstadt@theknotww.com Karen Argow, kargow@theknotww.com Debbie Lucas, dlucas@theknotww.com Laura Adrian, ladrian@theknotww.com Leslie Chapin, lchapin@theknotww.com Priya Junnarkar Jessica Bendes Zoe Ferranti Carly Kleinman Felicia Schiefer Elizabeth Roehrig Kate Traverson Sarah Fine Amanda Kocis Gallagher Anahí Garza-Runfola Heather Finn Gabriela Maceira Nicole Vogel, nvogel@theknotww.com Courtney Carlesimo, ccarlesimo@theknotww.com Jessica Van Alphen, jvanalphen@theknotww.com Morgan Fahey, mfahey@theknotww.com Brooke Morgan, bmorgan@theknotww.com Victoria Cavallacci, vcavallacci@theknotww.com Elena Semenza, esemenza@theknotww.com Giavanna Cifelli, gcifelli@theknotww.com Alaina Gosh, agosh@theknotww.com Isabella Falcone, ifalcone@theknotww.com Daniela Lopez, danlopez@theknotww.com

VI CE PRE S ID E NT, G LO BAL CO N S U M E R MARK ETIN G Kiara Kempski, kkempski@theknotww.com S E NI O R D IREC TO R , B R AND CO M M U NI CATI O N S Melissa Bach, pr@theknotww.com D IREC TO R B R AND M E D IA , G LO BAL CO N S U M E R MARK ETIN G Pamela Solis, psolis@theknotww.com MANAG E R , PU B LI C RE L ATI O N S Victoria Haler, pr@theknotww.com CO O RD INATO R , PU B LI C RE L ATI O N S Erica Ko, pr@theknotww.com MANAG E RS , B R AND PARTNE RS HIP S Chelsea McArdle, partnerships@theknotww.com Lauren LaBelle, partnerships@theknotww.com

PU B LI S HE D BY XO G RO U P IN C . 195 Broadway, NY, NY 10007 Phone (212) 219-8555 Fax (212) 219-1929 TheKnot.com The Knot weddings magazine © 2021 XO Group Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or in part, is forbidden without written permission from the publisher. The Knot, TheKnot.com and The Knot weddings magazine are trademarks of XO Group Inc. The Knot is not responsible for the return or loss of, or damage to, unsolicited materials. Those submitting manuscripts, photographs, artwork and other materials for consideration should not send originals, unless specifically requested to do so in writing by The Knot. Manuscripts, artwork and other materials must be accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope.

lillianwest.com

EDITOR’S NOTE

BE WELL, BE WED

Will and Ted had the right idea, unwinding with a sunset sail the day after their wedding (turn to page 102 to see more).

Be well, 24

THE EDITORS OF THE KNOT

We’re here to support you every step of the journey. So much so, we’ve created a wellness destination. Visit TheKnot.com/wellness, for personal essays and tips from experts for staying well on your way to be wed.

OUR WELLNESS PICKS Take a time-out from wedding planning and focus on your zen. Here are some of our favorite mood lifters and game changers.

SYDNEY McLAUGHLIN BEAUTY OIL Unwind with a facial massage. A rich, aromatherapy oil can help relieve stress and replenish and restore your skin’s glow. pg. 61

RECESS DRINK This adaptogeninfused water is the perfect swap for a traditional cocktail— the magnesium has a calming effect. pg. 78

BEST OF WEDDINGS

ICE ROLLERS Refrigerate these rollers and let them work their magic on puffiness. The chill will also help tighten pores and calm skin. pg. 44

VITRUVI DIFFUSER Aromas are clutch for relaxing or energizing you. Scent your space with essential oils like lemon and spruce. pg. 77

Our cover star is a two-time gold medalist and current women’s world record holder. Next hurdle to crush: wedding planning. Read how she stays grounded on pg. 34.

Check out our annual list of the most-loved pros chosen by couples just like you! TheKnot.com/bow

FROM TOP: LISA ZIESING FOR ABBY JIU PHOTOGRAPHY; ALFA DESIGN/NOUN PROJECT; ANDRE L. PERRY; GETTY IMAGES; COURTESY OF VENDOR (4)

e are slowly emerging from this global pandemic with a new appreciation for wellness. The definition of what it means to be healthy— mentally, physically and emotionally— has totally changed, and we’re here for it. We now know self-care can be a sheet mask and a soak in the tub or talk therapy. It’s prioritizing yourself and your partner and taking a break when you need one. We know self-love is the real deal. And we know weddings are finally back. The year ahead is shaping up to be one of the biggest in recent history—2.6 million nuptials on deck and counting. The coming together of two people (and their families) is no small feat, but we’re right here with you, championing you and your journey. This issue is full of inspo including our favorite fashion and wedding trends. We’ve got ideas for wellness-inspired prewedding fun, a moving essay about reframing trauma and tips for avoiding common pitfalls that drain you while planning. Bottom line, we’ve got you, every step of the way.

CONTRIBUTORS TAYO K U K U

PHOTOGRAPHER R E G E N C Y R E V I V A L P. 1 1 0

WH AT’S YO U R BEST PO SIN G ADVICE FO R P E OP L E WH O DO N ’T FEEL CO M FO RTABL E IN FRO NT O F TH E CAM ERA? I always try to tell my subjects to close their eyes and imagine that it’s their best friend photographing them with a regular smartphone. I find that people seem to be able to strike the right pose or serve the perfect face when they’re in front of a mobile camera but get tense and uncomfortable when in front of a DSLR. It’s on the photographer to create that inviting environment for subjects to truly shine and be themselves. @tayojr

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS We asked some of the pros from this issue for the inside scoop on their areas of expertise.

M I K A S H I M O DA

XIN HUANG

MAKEUP ARTIST

EVENT PLANNER

C A N Y OU S H A R E S OME PR O T I PS AND T R I C K S W H E N I T COME S T O MAK E UP? Mascara is a very important makeup component—it makes your eyes appear larger. Sometimes it can smudge, especially under the eyes. To prevent this, I often use clear mascara as a top layer, which reduces smearing. As for brows, I always brush eyebrows upward and use the soap brow technique to ensure they stay in place. I like to use this method because it provides a stronger hold than mascara or brow gel and is long-lasting. @mikashimoda01

A R B O R E T U M A F F A I R P. 7 0

AN Y CO M M O N M ISTAKES CO UPL ES M AKE IN TH EIR PL AN N IN G? Being overly focused on the budget. Don’t get me wrong: it’s important to be reasonable and spend within your means. But you should also focus on investing in what matters and what moves you. With recent staffing and demand challenges, prices are being affected. Look at your goals and be reasonable—if some vendors, who you feel are worth their weight in gold, are telling you a certain price is the actual cost for an item then trust the pros. @lepetiteprive

STAFF SPOTLIGHT SARAH HANLON ASSOCIATE EDITOR

W HAT I S ONE BE AUT Y S E LF-CARE M YTH YO U WAN T TO SET TH E RECO RD S T R AI G HT ON? Having a great beauty self-care routine—especially in the months leading up to your wedding day—does not mean you need to have a bathroom cabinet full of the trendiest, most expensive products on the market. Self-care is all about simple, attainable practices you can weave into your daily routine, whether that’s drinking plenty of water throughout the day, meditating while doing your favorite face mask, or taking a nightly bath surrounded by candles. @sarahhanlon_

Learn how to craft a transformative wellness experience on page 60.

FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF SUBJECT (4); THE KNOT WORLDWIDE; JULIAN NAVARETTE PHOTOGRAPHY

C O V E R + R E G E N C Y R E V I V A L P. 1 1 0

ADVICE

ASK THE KNOT SQUAD You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. We tapped our team—and one of our go-to industry pros—to solve some of your most of-the-moment planning asks.

O U R TA K E

W H AT AR E S O M E U N I Q U E WAY S C O U PLE S C AN C U S T O M I Z E T H E I R W E D D I N G AN D I N F U S E T HE D AY W I T H PE RS O N ALI T Y ? EMMA GRAY PITT

Smaller guest counts also free up the budget to splurge on over-the-top place settings.

WHAT ARE SOME CHANGES TO WEDDINGS BROUGHT ABOUT BY THE PANDEMIC THAT YOU HOPE STICK AROUND FOR THE LONG HAUL?

P R O TA K E

ASHLEY MASON Wedding Planner Saunter Weddings Based in Dallas, Ashley plans weddings all over the world with a focus on cultivating elevated atmospheres and experiences for couples and guests alike.

Lower guest counts may not have all been by choice in the last two years but they certainly are here to stay. Large weddings can make for a great party, but there’s a level of intimacy smaller-sized weddings carry that is harder to achieve with hundreds of people present. It feels different when you look out into the crowd and can confidently say you have a close relationship with everyone there. I always encourage our clients to refine their invitation list so that it feels more like an extended dinner party. Essentially, you are treating each person to appetizers, dinner, drinks, dessert, ambience and entertainment. Speaking of paring down, a wedding trend I’m glad to see taking a leave of absence is having large wedding parties. Couples are pivoting toward having little to no wedding party at all. They’re taking on a more simplistic approach with having maybe just a maid of honor and best man or only the two of them standing at the altar. Sometimes, less can be more and everyone is able to truly just be present without having roles and responsibilities.

Remember that ultimately the theme of your wedding is you and your partner. Start with invitations that break the mold. Just because something’s written on paper doesn’t mean it has to be formal— inside jokes and emojis are totally okay, as long as the important details are crystal clear. If you’re animal lovers, colorfully package dog and cat treats for attendees to bring home to their furry friends. If you love to travel, have guests list their favorite vacation spots in the guest book. If you’re competitive, create custom Bingo cards and play to decide which tables get dessert first. Bragging rights and the biggest piece of cake? That’s a wedding to remember!

W H AT ’ S O N E T H I N G Y O U WI SH ALL C O U PLE S K N E W AB OUT W E D D I N G PLAN N I N G ? NAOIMH O’HARE Assistant Editor, E-Commerce

Planning a wedding should be a rewarding experience for both partners. Many couples still have the misconception that the bulk of the planning duties should fall on the bride-to-be (in heteronormative pairings), but that’s simply not the case. Planning your day together is an opportunity to practice making big decisions together, regardless of which of you (if any) identifies as a bride.

Find more advice on THE K N OT WE D D IN G PL ANNE R APP

FROM TOP: TANYA MENONI, FLORALS: MOSS FLORAL DESIGN; COURTESY OF SUBJECT (2); JESSICA QUADRA PHOTOGRAPHY

Designer

PLEASE PARTY RESPONSIBLY

VERAWANGPARTY.COM

TR ADITIONS GRAM’S WHEELS Talk about an entrance: Amy’s grandmother arrived in style with a scooter covered in orange dahlias and yellow cosmos while “Ridin’,” by Chamillionaire, played.

PETAL POWER Flower girls have long been a staple of the processional, but the concept needn’t just include flowers and girls. Dudes tossing confetti? We’re here for it, and all the other ways to-be-weds can reimagine this tradition. BY HANNAH NOWACK

CAROLINE + MIKE ATLANTA , GA

In lieu of bouts, garlands capped off the looks.

B E S T M E N “We thought it would be wildly amusing to make our two adult guy friends be ‘Flower Bois’ rather than choose one of them to be a best man,” says Scarlett.

SCARLETT + ANDREW BIDDEFORD POOL, ME

ENTER IN STYLE Petals don’t have to be part of the processional.

BUBBLES If flowers aren’t your thing, give youngsters bubble blowers to use as they enter.

L E AV E S Celebrate the foliage at a fall wedding by blanketing the aisle in leaves.

WAG O N C U S T O M T R I M M I N G S Caroline’s nephews served as her flower attendants and chose their own wearable flower accessories; a bow tie, crown and cape each got decked out in dried blooms.

For too-youngto-walk kiddos, deck out a wagon with streamers for an older attendant to pull down the aisle.

LAUREN + JAMES CANANDAIGUA, NY

D O G O N D U T Y Flower-crown-clad attendants were escorted down the aisle by a four-legged friend with a leash that achieved Lauren’s vision for “wildlooking and romantic” botanical designs.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: HALEY RICHTER PHOTOGRAPHY, FLORALS: RAM FLORAL; MALIKOV/NOUN PROJECT; NATALIA PROVENCHER OF PROVENCHER PHOTOGRAPHY; LACIE HANSEN PHOTOGRAPHY; SOPHIE/NOUN PROJECT (2); LAURA WATSON

AMY + MICHELE PENNSAUKEN, NJ

A little background on the bride & groom.

Whether you choose an intimate barefoot wedding by the water’s edge, or a full-glam black-tie affair, the highlight of your special day will be, well, the twilight of your special day. The only thing that can eclipse the beauty of true love, is a sunset sky over Islamorada in The Florida Keys. ﬂa-keys.com/islamorada 1.800.322.5397 For the latest protocols on health & safety in The Florida Keys, please visit our website.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa

Island Villa Rental Properties

Celebrate love oceanfront at Islamorada’s premiere wedding venue; Cheeca Lodge. 305-664-4651 cheeca.com/weddings

Plan the ceremony, return for the Anniversary. Weddings & Honeymoons. 305-664-3333 IslandVilla.com

ESSAY

BACK TO THE

For better and for worse, April 11th is a significant day for slopestyle freeskier Jamie “MoCrazy” Crane-Mauzy. It’s the day she suffered a career-altering catastrophic skiing crash in Whistler, British Columbia, in 2015. But it’s also the day she and her fiancé Reggie Clark will tie the knot, back at the accident site—bringing healing and joy to the spot where her life once changed in a split second. AS TOLD TO HANNAH NOWACK

n the blink of an eye, I went from being a professional skier, competing on the World Cup freeski circuit, to waking up in the hospital after a coma and six weeks of amnesia, paralyzed on my right side, unable to walk and talk. My own personal best went from performing as a professional skier and breaking glass ceilings (like being the first woman in the world to double flip at the X Games) to challenging myself to walk up a simple flight of stairs. The two years following my TBI (traumatic brain injury) involved lots of recovery, like relearning all my gross motor skills. During my recovery, my sister, Jeanee, and I went back to Whistler for my one-year “Alive to Thrive” birthday, the name I’ve given my accident anniversary. That trip changed my life as I didn’t understand how critical my TBI had been prior to that visit. When she and I were at the lodge at the top of Whistler we said that if I ever got married, it would be at that very spot. Fast-forward to meeting my now-fiancé Reggie Clark through a mutual friend. Upon initially meeting him I actually friend-zoned

him pretty hard! Over time Reggie became my best friend and one morning, as we were getting ready to go skiing, I asked Reggie if he ever thought about kissing me. With a mouth full of cereal, he responded with a kiss! On April 11th, 2021, I was ski touring up a mountain with Reggie for my “Alive to Thrive” birthday and Reggie’s birthday, which is fatefully also on the 11th. Since the day was so important it made sense there was a photographer documenting our climb and I thought nothing of it. At the peak, Reggie and I posed for a picture when suddenly I looked next to me and he was kneeling in the snow. In his hands was the most beautiful ring and he asked me to marry him. After a few moments passed, Reggie asked if my crying meant “yes.” I said “Yes! I will marry you!” As soon as we began wedding planning, we knew two things with certainty—that Whistler was where we wanted to tie the knot and that April 11th would be our wedding date. There’s so much symbolism tied to Whistler for me, beyond the fact that it’s where my fatality

PEAK PROPOSAL “Jamie, you know that I love you and I’ll keep loving you forever.” Those words accompanied the pink sapphireand-diamond ring Reggie proposed with while skiing.

IT SEEMS VERY SYMBOLIC TO CLOSE ONE CHAPTER AND START ANOTHER AT THE SITE OF SOME OF THE OTHER MOST DRAMATIC MOMENTS OF MY LIFE.

report was drafted and I almost died. Most people don’t know that I qualified for my first X Games during a competition in Whistler. It seems symbolic to close one chapter and start another at the site of some of the other most dramatic moments of my life. It’s a dream come true for me that everything Jeanee and I talked about during our visit to Whistler all those years ago is actually happening—when I was in my twenties I never thought I would meet someone who had all the qualities I desired in a partner. Bringing things full circle, I even hired Jeanee to be our wedding planner and she’s been instrumental in helping me use the process of planning to reclaim Whistler as a spot of joy, rather than just a spot of trauma. With Whistler as my wedding location, the most important people surrounding my World Skiing Invitational fall will be able to be there. And we’re having a reception the day before that will be open to anyone in Whistler who wants to see the closure of the happy circle. I’m still in a little disbelief that this wedding to the perfect partner is happening at the top of Whistler on my “Alive to Thrive” birthday. I spend much of my time as a speaker inspiring others to have the passion needed to create a life full of joy and peace after trauma—it’s beautiful that for me, part of that journey involves my wedding.

FROM TOP: BERIN KLAWITER; GETTY IMAGES; GILLIAN HUNTER

CRASH SITE

The lodge atop Whistler Mountain will serve as Jamie and Reggie’s wedding venue.

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HIGHER POWER Sydney says submitting her plans to God led her to finding a lasting love. Crop top pantsuit, Rivini by Rita Vinieris; earrings, Grace Lee; watch, TAG Heuer

COVER STORY

TWO-TIME OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST AND WORLD RECORD HOLDER SYDNEY MCLAUGHLIN OPENS UP ABOUT LIFE ON THE TRACK, HER UNWAVERING FAITH AND FINDING LOVE WITH FELLOW ATHLETE ANDRE LEVRONE JR.

BY L AU R E N K AY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDRE L. PERRY

COVER STORY

ydney McLaughlin’s success on the track has earned her millions of fans over the years. Two of her biggest arrived alongside her at our cover shoot: her parents. Mom and Dad ran too and introduced Sydney to the sport when she was just 6 years old. She fell in love and the rest is, well, history (and history making). Running has always been an outlet for the star and a way for her to express herself. In the last five years she’s turned pro, won two gold medals, set a world record and gotten engaged to former NFL player Andre Levrone Jr. But if you ask Sydney, the best is yet to come. Here, she shares her love story, the way she prioritizes her mental health and the moment she’s most looking forward to on her wedding day. L AU REN K AY: You are a force, Sydney—a two-time Olympic Gold

medalist and a current world record holder in the women’s 400-meter hurdles. Tell us about your running journey. SYDN E Y MCL AU G H LI N: Running is an amazing part of my life. It’s allowed me to see so many places and experience so many things. Both of my parents ran track and so did all of my siblings. I started when I was 6 years old and kind of fell in love with it. I don’t think I got really serious about it until high school. That’s when my parents and my coach realized there was opportunity to take it to the professional level. I remember watching the Olympics when I was 8 or 9 and knowing from that moment on it’s what I wanted to do. And to be able to compete and win was a dream come true for me. I’m starting to flex that muscle of vocalizing things and releasing them into the open so they can be addressed. I understand that there’s people out there who can and will help you. I feel like running has provided me the opportunity to mature in a lot of ways—it’s definitely taught me life lessons on and off the track. Being in the Olympics at 16

I ’ M STA RT I N G TO VO CA L I Z E T H I N G S , TO RELEASE THEM INTO THE OPEN SO THEY CAN BE ADDRES SED. THERE’S PEOPLE OUT THERE WHO CAN AND WILL HELP YOU. forces you to grow up pretty fast. Along the way, I’ve just seen myself continue to mature into the woman that I am. I’ve been blessed to have such an amazing support system around me and I really think that’s the foundation that has helped me get to where I am right now. LK: That’s incredible. You’ve made room in your life for another love too. Tell me about Andre—how did you meet? When did you know he was the one?

S M: Oh, it’s a great story. I mean, it’s not an amazing story, but I think it’s pretty great. Ever since I was very young, I always looked forward to the day when I would get married. I’ve made that such a big part of my life. I was constantly looking throughout my teenage years, throughout college, into early adulthood. A big part of meeting my fiancé had to do with the evolution of my faith, finding who I am in Christ and submitting all my plans to God. Not long after I did that, I met Andre. LK: Kismet! So how did you originally connect? S M: We had a mutual friend who I went to high school with and he went to college with—but we didn’t interact until he

F I R S T LOV E The 22-year-old track phenom started running at age 6 and turned pro at 19. Dress, Houghton by Katharine Polk; earrings, Verstolo

slid into my DMs. We started off as friends. He asked me to do Bible study with him and introduced me to a group of really great people who were encouraging and very mature. It was the first time I was in a relationship with a man who I felt could lead me in my faith to a place where I wanted to be. We both knew early on that we liked each other and what our intentions were. If I could say the one thing about our relationship, it’s that it was always very intentional. Honestly, I knew the fourth day we ever talked. So that’s something. LK: That’s incredible. Those must have been some memorable conversations. S M: My second date with Andre was perfect. We went to

the beach, brought food and realized we forgot forks. We ate salmon with our bare hands! It’s become an inside joke now—I carry forks with me everywhere I go. But it was such a bonding moment for us. LK: That’s hilarious! You all dated for about a year and then Andre popped the question. Were you expecting a proposal? S M: We had lots of conversations about getting married. I even made a Pinterest board and added him! I was in Arizona celebrating my birthday with a group of girlfriends and I was very suspicious that he was going to just pop in. I wasn’t sure why. I walked out of my room just before dinner and there’s a videographer. I paused and thought, what? My friend jumps in

FINDING CENTER Outspoken about mental health, Sydney prioritizes prayer and walks on the beach to stay grounded. Dress, Morilee by Madeline Gardner; earrings, Verstolo

and says, I saw you did a birthday vlog a couple of years ago and it was terrible so we’re gonna make a new one. So we made a vlog on the way to dinner. We get to the front desk of the hotel and I’m handed a card that says, “I’m sorry I can’t be there to celebrate with you but I have a surprise for you on the lawn.” I walk outside and there he was. I honestly don’t remember what we talked about. I kept thinking, don’t fall. Don’t look ugly in these pictures. It was so sweet and very surreal. LK: What a wonderful way to kick off your next chapter. Have you started wedding planning? Any must haves? S M: I’m in the inspiration phase right now, scrolling Instagram and getting an idea of what I want. I think we want something rustic and elegant, with lots of white and olive green. I really love the idea of a backdrop of greenery, maybe a neon sign we can all take pictures in front of—classy. Andre has a lot of friends in the NFL and I have World Championships next year so we’re just figuring the timing out. We definitely know we want something intimate with our closest friends and family present. LK: Andre planned a pretty epic proposal. Do you think he’ll be a hands-on groom? S M: Oh he’ll definitely be involved. When I’m stressed about something, he’s right there, making sure everyting goes smoothly. We talked about the ceremonial washing of feet being part of the ceremony and we’d love to write our vows. We’re both writers and it will be awesome to speak from the heart. I think that’s the part I’m most looking forward to—reciting our vows and watching him cry. He’s definitely going to cry. LK: We all have a greater appreciation for mental wellness these days. How do you prioritize yourself when things get stressful? S M: I really prioritize prayer, and not just at meals or in the morning and at night, but throughout the day. I try and be vocal about things, whether I’m feeling them or just thinking them. I release them to God. If I’m facing a challenge or adversity, I have the tools and knowledge from scripture to fight the battles in front of me. I also take time to just be alone. I’ll go to the beach, listen to music and decompress with my thoughts. This helps me come back to my center, refocus and move forward. LK: You’ve spoken publicly about the mental impact of being in the public eye as a young athlete. How has that shaped who you are and your commitment to mental health? S M: In the past when I was going through something I had a tendency to isolate myself and try and handle it on my own. I’ve been working on that, knowing I have an amazing group of people in my corner who love me and want to help me.

IT’S A LOVE THING Syndey and Andre felt an instant connection and fell fast.

The two met through mutual friends and spent their first weekend together binge-watching Disney movies.

The athletes bonded over sports and are always down for friendly competition.

Andre and Sydney make it a priority to support and push each other to reach their goals.

Andre surprised Sydney with a proposal during a birthday trip with friends.

I’m starting to flex that muscle of vocalizing things and releasing them into the open so they can be addressed. I understand that there’s people out there who can and will help you. LK: Leaning on your community for support is huge, especially while wedding planning. A lot of athletes have superstitions. Do you have any rituals you’ll carry out on your wedding day? S M: Gummy bears! I always eat gummy bears the night before I run. I’ll probably be in season so I may have to sneak these in. LK: Talk to me about the music. Will your running tracks make the cut? S M: Oh, we already made our wedding playlist! We just went back and forth and chose a mix of some recent songs and some old songs. I don’t have anything from my running playlist on there, but we’ll definitely play the electric slide. LK: Will there be a first dance? Have you settled on that song yet? S M: Yes to a first dance, but finding a song has been a whole thing. I think we’re going to start practicing to our short list of songs and see which one feels right. It’s been hard to pick one we both agree on—we’re on the same page, just not there yet. LK: What about your attire? Will you be donning a pair of New Balance sneaks on your wedding day à la Father of the Bride? S M: It’s so funny you ask that because my dad has been asking me constantly about wearing sneakers. He wants to wear them! I told him, yes, you can wear sneakers but I need to see them first—he can be swagged out, but we have to be on the same page. I did find my dress and it’s the opposite of what I thought I would have picked. I thought I was going to go the very simple route with my dress, but it’s not simple. That’s all I’m going to say. LK: Wow, you’re leaving me in suspense. What do you think Andre will think? S M: He doesn’t really care about the dress. He knows it will be beautiful and he’s just very excited for the wedding day. I think we’ll skip a first look, so the first time he’ll see me in it will be when I’m walking down the aisle. LK: Any other traditions you plan to carry out or skip? S M: I love the throwing of the bouquet and seeing who’s aggressive enough to fight for it. I’m very intrigued to see who it’s going to be at my wedding—maybe my sister? LK: When you’re planning a wedding, everyone has something to say or advice to offer. What’s the best you’ve received? S M: The best advice I’ve received is that no wedding is perfect. You just have to focus on what’s important, which is why you’re there, and try not to make everything so exact and perfect.

FASHION STYLING: SHELLEY BROWN; HAIR AND MAKEUP: MIKA SHIMODA FOR DIOR BEAUTY AT ART DEPARTMENT. SIDEBAR: COURTESY OF SYDNEY MCLAUGHLIN.

COVER STORY

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N E W +N OW PREWEDDING BACH PARTIES DON’T HAVE TO INCLUDE BOOZY BAR CRAWLS. GATHER YOUR BESTIES FOR A WELLNESS-FOCUSED GETAWAY TO GROUND YOURSELVES AHEAD OF THE WEDDING DAY.

GRAHAM DUNN/THE LICENSING PROJECT

ZEN

FINDING

Gift wedding party members plush robes they can rewear while getting ready the morning of the wedding.

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If customization is important to your group, a spa is the way to go. Check into your favorite facility and let each VIP book their dream HydraFacial or a luxe pedicure with paraffin wax dip.

Feeling stressed about the wedding? Combat anxiety and master a new skill with a guided meditation class. This chance to cast all your worries away will ensure the last few weeks before the wedding day go smoothly.

If you and your pals can’t slip away to a spa for an entire weekend, simply carve out an afternoon for a group massage. Then, tuck into your favorite restaurant for a group dinner.

Calling all yogis— start the weekend off by gifting each of your attendants coordinating athleisure sets. Snap pics in your matching looks to remember your fun vinyasa-filled getaway. Ask your instructor to focus on stress-relieving positions to help you relax.

A weekend in the great outdoors is a must for nature lovers. Gather your besties and don your hiking boots for an adventure in the woods. Gift your crew bags of homemade trail mix and swanky water bottles.

Instead of going out to a restaurant to celebrate your impending nuptials, why not make a meal with your nearest and dearest? Once you’ve learned a fun new recipe, consider remaking it for your next date night.

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ROAM YOUR WAY Packing for your honeymoon or destination wedding is hardly a chore when your luggage is this cool. Roam, the only fully color-customizable luggage, takes personalization to the next level. Select a suitcase from eight size options and choose your preferred hues for everything from the panels to the wheels and the zipper. Our favorite part? You can also add a monogram to your bag, free of charge. From $495, RoamLuggage.com

2022 COLOR TRENDS

A great color palette is paramount when it comes to setting the scene at your wedding. The hues you choose will communicate your aesthetic and vibe. Here are a few of-the-moment shades to inspire your palette.

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Skip the predictable hangover and rejuvenate with a meaningful prewedding celebration.

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RETHINKING WEDDING SPEECHES The pandemic shifted the landscape of many wedding details, especially speeches. From virtual toasts to microweddings where each guest is invited to say a few words, expectations have changed. But the blueprint for a memorable expression of love hasn’t been altered. If you’ve been tapped to offer a congratulatory address to the happy couple, let this tried-and-true formula be your guide.

THE FORMULA INTRO Set the scene. Who are you and what’s your connection to the couple?

ANECDOTE It’s story time. Reminisce about the early days in the couple’s relationship.

REITERATE Bring things full circle. Double down on why the guests of honor click.

ADIEU *Cin cin* Wrap it up with a raised glass.

RA S P B E RRY This rich, vibrant hue will add a pop of personality to modern nuptials. Consider utilizing scabiosa or ranunculus blooms.

Ashley Zhang The fine-jewelry designer talks her new collection of mourning jewelry, plus ways to memorialize departed loved ones on your wedding day.

WHA T I N S PI R E D Y O U R N E W M O U R N I N G J E W E LRY C O LLE C T I O N ? Every week I search for new antique and vintage items to add to our collection online. After my dad passed away last summer, I stumbled upon a lovely antique Victorian era mourning pendant. It struck me as such a great piece to wear to remember my dad. I decided to further my research in mourning jewelry and found so much inspiration for a full collection. Each piece is designed to be engraved with names, dates or anything else meaningful to the customer.

W DI D V I N T AG E AN D AN T I Q U E Q: HOJ EWEL R Y I N F LU E N C E Y O U R D E S I G N S ?

Both Georgian and Victorian eras had beautiful examples for mourning jewelry

DUSTY RO SE Step aside, blush. This romantic selection is perfect for couples tying the knot at an estate or vineyard.

and I incorporated these motifs into my own collection. For instance, we found Georgian era bands with names, dates and phrases such as “in loving memory of.” During the Victorian era, the motifs of the jewelry became soft and more feminine with urns, weeping willows and flowers, which we incorporated as well. URN I N G Q : WJ EHWATE LRYAR EO WN AYY OSU RT OWWE DE DARI NMG ODAY ? Stacking bands are a subtle and discreet way to wear mourning jewelry and can be easily mixed in with traditional wedding rings. For a bolder look, a right-hand pinky or signet ring is also a beautiful wedding day piece. If you want one to commemorate a loved one who you wished could have attended your special day, this can be achieved through engraving or adding birthstones. A simple necklace is also a great option if you’re wearing an outfit with a lower neckline. I love our Lily of the Valley diamond necklace. It’s simple and has a feminine floral style, but is left blank on the back for a personal engraving. From $560, AshleyZhangJewelry.com

SAFFRON This orange-tinted yellow is beautifully versatile. It works just as well at a boho wedding as it does for a whimsical day.

WARM FUZZIES Pull at attendees’ heartstrings through advice or praise.

Q+A

ICE ICE BEAUTY

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PLEASE BE SEATED Reception decor is about so much more than what’s on your tabletop. Give attendees a first-class upgrade with specialty chair rentals that dazzle. These seating swaps will take your wedding reception decor to the next level. T RY T H E

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The hottest prewedding skin-care advice? Chill out—quite literally. The anti-inflammatory properties of ice can reduce puffiness, tighten pores and calm breakouts.

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THE MASK Wedding planning stress wreaking havoc on your skin? This mask combines the powers of ice and acupressure to deliver an overall firmer, more radiant complexion. Charlotte Tilbury Cryo-Recovery mask, $55, Sephora.com Ghost chairs are no longer the only sleek, modern seats on the market. Fanfare, also known as chameleon, chairs instantly fill a space with luxury.

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SEXY SELF-LOVE It’s no secret that finding sweet nothings that work for your body type and look chic can be a challenge. Enter: Rue du Paradis, an inclusive lingerie brand that creates bras, undies and bodysuits for your exact measurements. Simply meet with a consultant over Zoom, choose from a selection of styles and laces and get your custom pieces in two to three weeks.

THE EYE CREAM Look like you got your beauty sleep (even if you didn’t) with this calming eye cream with antiinflammatory ingredients that mimic the effects of cryotherapy. SiO Cryo eye cream, $60, Saks.com

T H E FAC I A L T O O L When puffiness attacks, refrigerate these globes for 10 minutes and gently roll them over your face to increase circulation and sculpt your features. The Original Blue Ice Globe facial massager, $64, Aceology.com

From $280, RueduParadisLingerie.com

S E A FOA M Soft, romantic and absolutely eye-catching—what’s not to love about a green-meets-gray-meets-blue pick?

PERSI AN B LUE If you’re looking for a more fashion-forward alternative to navy, this rich hue is the way to go.

CL EM ENTI NE Clementine is peach and coral’s trendier, hipper cousin. This color could add a pop to both beach and industrial nuptials.

COURTESY OF VENDORS

Chiavari chairs have long been the standby seating choice at receptions, but a new glamazon is in town.

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The revamped collection leans into the brand’s OG edgy aesthetic with corsets and slip dresses.

FASHION BUZZ

Houghton Returns Designer Katharine Polk launched bridal fashion brand Houghton in 2011, and it quickly caught on with nontraditional brides. After expanding to 12 countries and dressing numerous celebrities, Polk made the difficult decision to shutter Houghton in 2018. Now, the brand is back with a fresh perspective and moniker, Houghton by Katharine Polk. With a new

focus on inclusivity, Houghton by Katharine Polk offers looks in sizes up to 30, plus a custom program. “The Houghton bride wants something different than everyone else,” Polk says. “As my muse and namesake, Katharine Houghton Hepburn, said, ‘If you obey all the rules, you miss all the fun.’ ” From $5,000, HoughtonNYC.com

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T H E P E R F E C T PA I R Calling all fashionistas: Luxury shoe brand Malone Souliers now offers made-to-order options based on their most iconic designs. Choose from 17 silhouette options, then select your material and colors for the upper, straps and heels. Looking to get extra personal? You can also add a monogram of up to six characters. Once your design is finalized, your shoes are made-to-order in Italy and shipped to you in eight to 10 weeks. From $738, MaloneSouliers.com

OAT M EA L Neutrals don’t have to be boring. Skip cream and go with a darker wheat-inspired hue for a timeless choice.

G RAS S Punchy colors are having a moment, and we’re here for it. Complement an outdoor venue with a bold green.

Monogrammed pajama sets and floral-patterned robes will always be a timeless choice for getting-ready attire, but they’re not the only way to go. Are you partial to the oversized sweat sets beloved by Justin Bieber and KKW? Then allow us to introduce you to Partier—the brand that’s revolutionizing wedding swag. We’re double-tapping these tees inspired by tour merch and hoodies that look like they were snatched up at the latest streetwear drop.

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FA S H I O N + B E A U T Y

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CORSETS Originally designed to be hidden inside of dresses, the corsets of today are made to be seen. A sheer bodice with exposed boning is both sweet and sultry.

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RUFFLES Grand weddings are back and so are grand details. Opt for a dress with frothy frills for a look with volume and texture—without the added weight.

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S TAT E M E N T F LO R A L S While floral motifs and wedding dresses are a classic pairing, colorful prints and splashy embroideries give this established trend a gorgeous refresh.

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PHOTO CREDIT

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MONIQUE LHUILLIER BLISS: BEN ROSSER; MONIQUE LHUILLIER: KT MERRY; PETER LANGNER: MARCO GUASTALLA; LAZARO: STEVE VACCARIELLO; ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF DESIGNERS

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These looks are short on hemline but long on personality. Whether you’re eloping, planning a casual ceremony or looking to show off killer shoes, a fun and flirty dress is for you.

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Can you say va-va-voom? A sexy high slit elongates your frame and works for a surprising number of dress styles—formal ball gowns included.

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REN

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FASHION + BEAUTY

BOLD BLOOMS For a fresh take on the flower crown, weave a colorful variety of live blossoms into a more structured hairstyle. PRO TIP Choose heartier flowers with stick stems like gardenias, orchids, roses and baby’s breath that can be easily placed in your hair and won’t wilt after hours of wear.

MONIQUE LHUILLIER

BRONZED LIDS

PRO TIP For foolproof application, use your finger or a brush and swipe a cream-based eye shadow across your lids. Layer on more color for a bolder effect.

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NO MAKEUP MAKEUP

GET THE LOOK Jones

Take your wedding day glow to the next level with the effortless combination of a light coverage foundation plus a cream blush.

BLUSH BY FR ANCESCA AVIL A

GET THE LOOK Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush in Summertime Wine, $20, Sephora.com; Hollywood Flawless Filter makeup in Dark Tan, $44, Nordstrom.com

Road Just A Sec eye shadow in Bronze, $26, JonesRoadBeauty.com

REN

PRO TIP Pair a liquid foundation with cream blush—applying a creamy formula on top of a powder base can look splotchy.

TH E T

Trade matte shadow for a shimmery wash of color in a warm shade to make your eyes pop.

UNDONE UPDOS This romantic, windswept style works for all hair types— and is a great opportunity to show off curtain bangs or face-framing layers. PRO TIP Creating texture is key to nailing this perfectly imperfect look. Prime your hair with a volumizing spray with flexible hold. GET THE LOOK

THEIA

R+Co Balloon dry volume spray, $36, NeimanMarcus.com

RIVINI BY RITA VINIERIS

FROM TOP: KT MERRY; SHUTTERSTOCK (2); COURTESY OF DESIGNER; GETTY IMAGES; COURTESY OF VENDOR; COURTESY OF DESIGNER (2); COURTESY OF VENDOR (3); GETTY IMAGES

REN

TH E T

Less is more where the hottest wedding hair and makeup looks are concerned. From dewy skin to unfussy ’dos, we’ve got the deets on what’s trending—plus how to pull off au naturel beauty IRL.

Most Couples Start Here

Get your invites in order

Set up a (free!) matching wedding website

Pick save-the-dates

Spread the word

Solidify your day-of paper

Find a design that makes sharing the news feel even more special.

Laura Metzler Photography

And so much more...

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Find your favorite way to say thanks

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White diamonds are totally classic, but they aren’t for everyone. Looking for bling with a more unexpected vibe? Go bold with a colored center stone. BY SHELLEY BROWN

CATCH THE SUN A yellow diamond paired with an open design give a three-stone setting a modern update. Bespoke three-stone radiant canary and diamond trillion open ring in 18k gold, price upon request, JemmaWynne.com

RAINBOW RULES Whether you want to shoutout PRIDE or you love rainbows, this wedding set is seriously festive. Hazeline knife edge solitaire ring, $3,150, Rainbow Grand Tiara band, $1,100, AnnaSheffield.com

LA VIE EN ROSE Prepare to swoon over the über-romantic combo of a hot-pink rubellite tourmaline and intricate rose gold setting. Katherine Jetter One of a Kind rubellite tourmaline and diamond ring in 18k rose gold, $26,000, TheVaultNantucket.com

THINK PINK

GOING GREEN

What’s better than one halo? Two. This ultra-glamourous pink diamond sparkler brings the bling—and the vibrant color. Pink diamond pear-shape double halo ring, price upon request, Rahaminov.com

You don’t need a lot of bling to make a statement. A streamlined yellow-gold band allows a stunning olive-hued sapphire to take center stage. Claude green sapphire ring in 18k gold, $3,527, Meadowlark.co.nz

SOULFUL STONES A gemstone is more than a pretty addition to any ring—many stones have symbolic meanings. Here, some popular ones and what they represent.

DIAMOND

SAPPHIRE

EMERALD

RUBY

Love Purity Fidelity

Wisdom Prosperity Virtue

Healing Truth Peace

Passion Health Protection

FASHION + BEAUTY

MARINE LIFE There’s a reason why aquamarines are so hot. These semiprecious blue stones are an affordable—but still stunning—choice for alternative bling. Pavé Shirley bezel set emerald-cut aquamarine ring in 18k gold, $2,800, SarahHendler.com

SOMETHING SPARKLY Your wedding rings are a luxe way to give a nod to tradition. This tanzanite ring with a floralinspired design is a gorgeous Something Blue. Tiffany Victoria Vine tanzanite and diamond ring in platinum, $14,400, Tiffany.com

ROYAL BLUE Take a cue from Kate Middleton’s iconic sparkler and opt for a ceruleansapphire ring with elaborate accent stones. Oval sapphire and pavé diamond split band ring in platinum, price upon request, Kwiat.com

COURTESY OF DESIGNERS

EMERALD CITY One word: showstopper. A fluid setting of delicate pavé diamonds creates the illusion of a floating emerald center stone. Emerald Diamond Trace pavé ring in 18k gold, $6,360, KatKimFineJewelry.com

BLUSHING BEAUTY Pink doesn’t have to feel precious. Case in point: This morganite ring with a black diamond-encrusted band is equal parts sweet and edgy. Morganite and black-diamond ring in 18k gold, $1,995, YiCollection.com

RUBELLITE

MORGANITE

AQUAMARINE

TANZANITE

AMETHYST

OPAL

Warmth Vitality Joy

Divine Love Compassion Healing

Courage Clarity Protection

Wisdom Truth Dignity

Intelligence Purification Psychic Ability

Truth Hope Prophecy

BEAUTY AS SELF-CARE Real talk: While planning a wedding is one of life’s most exciting milestones, prepping for such a monumental event can also feel downright stressful at times. That’s why it’s crucial to prioritize your mental health in the months leading up to your day. Celebrity makeup artist and psychotherapist Lee Pycroft shares nine simple ways to turn your prewedding beauty regimen into a transformative wellness experience, so you can look—and feel—your best throughout your wedding journey.

Prioritizing your wellness involves more than cooling eye masks or drawing a bath. According to Pycroft, self-care starts from within. “You need to work with your own biology,” she says. “Stay hydrated, eat properly and prioritize sleep. In particular, sleep is the crux of everything. If you’re not sleeping properly, you won’t be able to cope with stress as well, and you won’t be able to communicate with your partner as effectively.” Creating a balanced routine from the inside out will offer a holistic approach to your self-care journey.

BY SARAH HANLON

STICK TO A BEAUTY REGIMEN We’re big advocates of prioritizing your skin care routine all of the time, but the months before your wedding are especially crucial. That’s not to say you need a lineup of trendy products or treatments—what matters most is that you dedicate time every day to taking care of your body with products that make you feel good. “Having a beauty or grooming ritual is a celebration of ourselves: not only what we’re doing internally, like being emotionally and nutritiously balanced, but also what we’re doing externally to feel our best,” Pycroft says. And, she notes, a consistent routine has benefits beyond the health of your skin. “There’s a sense of safety with rituals, and they can help you feel more in control,” she says. “The more we can mobilize a relaxation response when we’re calm, the easier it is to access it when we’re stressed out.” When you take time during your beauty regimen to focus on centering yourself, it will help you to relax when things get stressful later (think: you’re creating a seating chart or tracking down RSVPs).

LEE PYCROFT @leepycroft

Celebrity makeup artist Lee Pycroft has worked with A-listers like Anne Hathaway and Laura Linney. She also launched an award-winning initiative promoting beauty as self-care, which led her to become a registered psychotherapist.

INDULGE IN FACIAL MASSAGES Prewedding beauty treatments aren’t mandatory but there is one at-home method Pycroft recommends. “People hold stress in their face, so facial massages are an important practice,” she says. She notes that an at-home facial massage can be done with your hands, or by using a tool like a gua sha stone. “When we’re stressed, we send blood to our heart and our muscles, away from our skin,” she says. “While massaging, we’re bringing blood flow back to the skin’s surface and releasing tension.” Another plus? Facial massage also boosts collagen production.

CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: COURTESY OF SUBJECT; GETTY IMAGES (2); COURTESY OF VENDOR (2); GETTY IMAGES; COURTESY OF VENFOR (3); GETTY IMAGES

TREAT YOUR BODY FROM THE INSIDE OUT

Exper t

FASHION + BEAUTY

ESSENTIALS Here’s a peek at what’s on Lee Pycroft’s bathroom counter.

START THE DAY STRONG Be thoughtful about which products you use in the morning, because this will prep your skin and mind for the day ahead. “I recommend using a gel cleanser in the morning along with an antioxidant like vitamin C or E, and sunscreen,” Pycroft says. As you’re working through your AM products, use this time to take deep breaths to ground yourself. “If you’re feeling sluggish in the morning, make your in-breath longer than your out-breath to mobilize the wake-up signal in the body to make yourself feel more invigorated,” she says. “Then, set your intentions for the day. How you start your day sets your brain in the right direction.”

PRIORITIZE YOUR BEDTIME RITUAL

INCLUDE AROMATHERAPY Aromatherapy can be an incredibly impactful way to enhance your beauty regimen. While a great serum or eye cream may work wonders for your skin, combining your calming ritual with a particular scent offers unparalleled benefits. “There’s a direct link between scent and the emotional part of the brain,” Pycroft says. For example, if a certain candle scent brings back great memories, burn it while you take a calming bath. Or, if lavender essential oil puts your mind at ease, diffuse some during your skin-care rituals. Associating these calming moments with a specific smell will nourish your body and mind in a way that other beauty products can’t.

BODY CREAM “This has alpha hydroxy acids, and I love it because it’s great for treating dry skin.” Ameliorate Transforming body cream, $37, Amazon.com

SUNSCREEN “Sunscreen is an essential, especially for anyone suffering from hyperpigmentation.” Murad City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50, $68, Murad.com

BEAUTY OIL “This is a beautiful oil that’s rich with aromatherapy.” Hayo’u Face Beauty Oil, $40, HayouMethod.com

Whether you prefer a hydrating sheet mask or a purifying clay formula, nothing is quite as relaxing as using a face mask at the end of a long day. But instead of scrolling on Instagram or answering wedding-related emails, Pycroft recommends using this time to focus on breath work. “Stress triggers an alarm signal in the body, so we need to mobilize a calming response to overcome it. Breathing is one way of doing that.” While doing a face mask, take intentional deep breaths to calm your mind and your body. Then, in moments of stress throughout your day, you can access this calming response by repeating your deep breathing routine.

RETINOL “In the morning, I often use a balancing vitamin C serum followed by this retinoid at night.” Medik8 Crystal Retinal, $49, us.Medik8.com

LIP GLOSS “I love this lip tint. It keeps your lips hydrated with a tiny bit of color.” Lisa Eldridge Gloss Embrace lip gloss, $25, LisaEldridge.com

FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE Having a wellness routine means more than just taking care of your skin—it’s also an excuse to exercise your mind in a positive way. While wedding planning, you might feel overwhelmed by a variety of thoughts, not all positive. But Pycroft encourages to-be-weds to daydream during their beauty routine, as this is an easy way to retrain your thoughts. “When people are stressed, they can misuse their imagination, often thinking of all the things they don’t want to have happen,” she explains. “In your beauty ritual, use your imagination to drift off to a calm place in your mind, visualizing what you do want to have happen rather than what you don’t.”

PLAN COUPLES MASSAGES A couple’s massage is one of the best ways to include your fiancé in your prewedding rituals. “A massage is a sensory experience, but it’s also incredibly connecting and relaxing,” she says. “Many experts say the base of any good relationship is friendship and admiration. And, of course, when you’re doing something like a couple’s massage, you’re spending quality time together.” Although your free time may seem to dwindle while planning a wedding, it’s important to set aside opportunities for you and your S.O. to unwind. “When life moves quickly, you have to find small moments of connection. A massage promotes a sense of togetherness.”

Your nighttime routine is just as important as your morning ritual, given that sleep is the pinnacle of your well-being. By taking the time to intentionally unwind at the end of the day, you’ll prepare your body for rest. “Apply skin-care products in order of thickest consistency to thinnest, except for oil, which goes on last to seal it all in,” she says. As you move through your skin-care routine, think back through your day and work through any frustrations so they don’t linger. “If you’ve had any stressful moments that left you in an emotional loop, rewind your imagination. This will help you disentangle those thoughts and promote a restful sleep,” she says.

DEEP BREATHE WHILE YOU MASK

Most Couples Start Here

Pick photos that showcase your love

Add your story

Find the design that matches your wedding vibe (or invites!)

Share the details

Link up your registry from The Knot

Redfield Photography; Andrew McCaul; Getty Images / Katarzyna Bialasiewicz

A website is the best way to keep guests up-to-date on everything wedding.

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And so much more... Add special info like hotel blocks or after-party details

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S P R I N G 2 0 2 2

S T Y LE+PL A N N I NG TRENDS FOR 2022 We say, go your own way when it comes to wedding planning. But if you’re in need of some inspo here are 22 ideas we’re excited to see couples make their own. BY L AU R E N K AY PHOTOGRAPH BY ANAHI WEDDINGS

OUTDOOR A F FA I R S Outdoor weddings aren’t new, but since the pandemic made us all more comfortable alfresco, they’re hugely popular. The usual venue suspects (garden, backyard, beach) will be on rotation, but seek out the unexpected. Think really unique places, like a flower field, a treehouse or I-dos under a bridge.

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I DO DETAILS

Arches are still a popular way to mark the spot in I-dos, but geometric metal structures and ground grazing foliage are new alternatives that have a similar, eyecatching impact. We especially love a ground moment for ceremony spots that offer an incredible view.

3 T ECH TO STAY

SCULPTED CAKES The cake is the exclamation point of your day—and these are intended to wow. Texturized designs, highly sculptured tiers and abstract painted confections are all trending. Can’t commit to one flavor? Create a table of single-tier cakes and let guests choose their slice.

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W E E K D AY WEDDINGS With so many sold-out Saturdays to contend with, embrace a Thursday or Sunday celebration. Reorder your party events and keep guests entertained over the course of a few days of together time.

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FROM LEFT: JOHNNY MILLER; KESHA LAMBERT; CLAYTON AUSTIN

The “Luna” cake by Mah Ze Dahr Bakery.

FROM LEFT: CARLIE STATSKY; STEPHEN KENT JOHNSON; FELICIA THE PHOTOGRAPHER; JOHN CASERTA/NOUN PROJECT

Zoom weddings became a necessity during 2020, but the tech is here to stay. If all your guests can’t celebrate in person with you, offer an alternative way to include them in the fun. Partner with your videographer to stream something live or create a Zoom toasting room before your walk down the aisle to share the day with loved ones.

STYLE + PLANNING

6 PARTY VIBES After two years of stay-at-home regulations, we’re ready to bring down the house. If you held an intimate celebration in 2020 or 2021, you may skip right to the reception by throwing an epic bash. Or perhaps you’ll reshare vows, but hold cocktail hour before the ceremony followed by a lit dance floor. TL; DR: 2022 weddings are true celebrations.

With some travel restrictions still in place, bring your favorite international destination to life stateside. Pair a Parisian-themed menu and playlist, with the pièce de résistance, the croquembouche, transporting guests straight to France. Or add hints of your hometown to your chosen locale.

POP CU LTUR E FROM LEFT: JOHNNY MILLER; KESHA LAMBERT; CLAYTON AUSTIN

FROM LEFT: CARLIE STATSKY; STEPHEN KENT JOHNSON; FELICIA THE PHOTOGRAPHER; JOHN CASERTA/NOUN PROJECT

PASSPORT NOT REQUIRED

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You can draw wedding inspiration from anywhere, but Bridgerton is pretty provoking (see page 110). Cottagecore is another vibe that’s making its debut in weddings, from fashion to farm to table settings peppered with wildflowers. And of course, you can never go wrong with a nod to a classic (think: Star Wars).

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STYLE + PLANNING

Couples are using their purchasing power for good—a trend we are here for! Select a diverse group of pros to pull off your day, or partner with organizations that mean something to you, like a caterer who feeds the hungry or a florist who has a relationship with an elder-care facility.

SUSPENDED STEMS Get your guests looking up with this twist on the traditional table arrangement. Hanging florals can take on the look of a natural chandelier or help create a more intimate feel in an oversized space (think: loft or barn).

WELLNES S WOWS Wellness is a huge trend for 2022, across all categories—even weddings. Add some self-care into your prewedding plans, be it couples therapy, supplements or treatments. All in? Offer a meditation workshop for guests or set up a postcelebration IV recovery lounge.

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FROM LEFT: SHUTTERSTOCK; BO SHIM; CHAD MUNRO

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FROM LEFT: EMILY WREN PHOTOGRAPHY; PINCH FOOD DESIGN; SHELBYDANIELLEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM; BARTAMA GRAPHIC/NOUN PROJECT; MADNESS STOCK/NOUN PROJECT

VALUE PLA N N IN G

13 12

FROM LEFT: EMILY WREN PHOTOGRAPHY; PINCH FOOD DESIGN; SHELBYDANIELLEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM; BARTAMA GRAPHIC/NOUN PROJECT; MADNESS STOCK/NOUN PROJECT

Experiential registries aren’t new, but they continue to gain steam. After a year-plus at home, you’re ready to get back out there. Register for a class at your local brewery, join the art museum, get certified for scuba diving or start a home reno project. You can ask for anything, so why not fun?

Order these for cocktail hour from Pinch Food Design.

IN DIVIDUAL S E RVIN G S

FROM LEFT: SHUTTERSTOCK; BO SHIM; CHAD MUNRO

REGISTERING FOR FUN

Single-serve apps and plated dinners were born from necessity—safety during the pandemic was (and still is) top of mind. The trend stuck around because not having to share your charcuterie is, well, awesome. Mini versions of classic favorites will surely please your crowd.

UNEXPECTED WEDDING PARTIES Grandparents are swapping roles with little ones for honorary positions (see page 30), while some couples are forgoing the tradition altogether and owning the altar as a duo. Do whatever feels right to you—there really are no rules.

14 BOLD DESIGNS Individuality and risk-taking are HOT. Couples are infusing their celebrations with lots of color, memorable designs and elements that truly feel one of a kind. Skip the neutrals and go for a ’90s color palette or a regal mix of jewel tones with a hit of metallic.

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16 Reordering events is nothing new to COVID couples—what’s one more shift in the lineup? Treat guests to an elixir before exchanging I dos. Nonalcoholic options fused with adaptogens are on trend as are bubbles or your signature sip.

MULTIEVENT SOIREES You switched venues, postponed events and had to pivot due to the pandemic—you’re due additional celebrations. Add a few more events to the wedding roster to make up for those you missed, like a welcome party with couples trivia, a postwedding pancake buffet or some other experience that’s representative of you as a couple.

FROM LEFT: LISA ZIESING FOR ABBY JIU PHOTOGRAPHY; ABDERRAOUF OMARA/NOUN PROJECT; CHRISTINA MCNEILL; COURTESY OF VENDOR; CLAYTON AUSTIN; AMANDA MEGAN MILLER PHOTOGRAPHY; JOHNNY MILLER

PRECE RE M O NY S IP S

M E TA L L I C S + M AT T E S Sure, silver and gold will always have a place at weddings, but some offbeat metallics are joining the party—think: blue, green, bronze and plum. Matte finishes are also having a moment everywhere from place settings to small appliances.

Turn to page 102 for more pics from this wedding.

AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY With so many celebrations taking place outdoors, drone photography can add major dimension to your wedding album. Overhead shots à la Gray Malin are all the rage and offer a unique vantage point of that ceremony or reception setup you painstakingly planned.

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STYLE + PLANNING

PAINTED STEMS Spray-painted stems and foliage are joining the mix of blooms to create incredibly textured arrangements. White and metallics are being used to make centerpieces and installations have an otherworldly quality.

20 Moody color palettes, twinkle lighting and mystical vibes are trending in weddings—I dos are taking place under the stars more than ever now. Create a lunar invitation suite, fill tables with crystal motifs and add galaxy-inspired details for a dreamy celebration.

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FROM LEFT: LISA ZIESING FOR ABBY JIU PHOTOGRAPHY; ABDERRAOUF OMARA/NOUN PROJECT; CHRISTINA MCNEILL; COURTESY OF VENDOR; CLAYTON AUSTIN; AMANDA MEGAN MILLER PHOTOGRAPHY; JOHNNY MILLER

O UT O F TH I S WO RLD

22 INTE NTI O NAL EXPE RIE N CE S With smaller guest lists in the mix, experiences are playing a bigger role in weddings. Seek out your favorite cover band and ask them to play in full costume. Or treat your guests to something original prewedding, like a cooking class, lawn bowling or a scavenger hunt through town.

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STYLE + PLANNING

Nostalgia is reinvented for the modern couple—the pair begins a new chapter while embracing their Asian heritage with dual ceremonies. BY HANNAH NOWACK PHOTOGRAPHY BY KYLEE YEE PHOTOGRAPHY C R E AT I V E D I R ECT I O N BY LE PETIT PRIVÉ FLORALS BY DESIGNS BY AHN

VENUE THE BEEKMAN, A THOMPSON HOTEL

In lieu of a registry, loved ones shower the couple with red envelopes (hong bao) of jewelry and cash.

POWERFUL PROS As a celebration of their shared heritage, a curated vendor team, focused on AAPI-owned businesses, came together to make this event a reality.

GREEN GREETING Green envelopes pay homage to the wisdom the jade stone represents in Chinese culture. Invitations, @seniman_calligraphy

A custom wax seal adds softness to an otherwise modern invitation suite.

STYLE + PLANNING

MODERN GOWN

TEA CEREMONY The nuptials begin on a humble and centered note as the to-be-weds bow and offer tea in respect for their elders. The elders then return the blessing through the gift of red envelopes and gold jewelry.

Deviating from red hues traditionally seen in a Chinese wedding dress, a dusty peach colorway brings an updated twist to this cheongsam. Wedding dress, @cinobi; hair + makeup, @beautini

SWEET ENDING Moon cakes are a sweet treat that add cultural richness to the menu. Desserts, Taipan Bakery

CHIC MENSWEAR Subtle white dots modernize a classic tux, while a bout with craspedia adds color. Floral design, @designsbyahnnyc; tux, @theblacktux

STYLE + PLANNING

SECOND STYLE For the second ceremony, an outfit change brings a Western vibe to the metropolitan day. Shoes, @rogervivier; manicure, @luxora_co

URBAN CAKE An elevated take on concrete, this sweet befits city dwellers’ vows perfectly; goldfish accents wish the newlyweds good luck. Cake, @mariencarolyn2013

TO W E R I N G D E C O R

Tall, statement arrangements transport guests from a hotel ballroom to a flower-filled arboretum. Rentals, @thetabletopcompany; @elitetentpartyrental; @luxeeventrentals

LOV E LY B A U B L E S Dragons and cranes signify strength and longevity—charms worth keeping close for the prewedding hair ritual. Accessories, @noma_id; rings, @blisslau; @victorbarbonejewelry

T Y I N G T H E K N OT, T W I C E A duo of ceremonies provides the chance to honor tradition in one vow exchange, while also creating personalized customs of your own in the other.

Birds of paradise and tropical foliage bring the calm of a botanical garden to an urban rooftop.

STYLE + PLANNING

Your Wellness Wish List

Inspired by the idea of living in the moment, this board allows you to create works of art using just water. Drag the bamboo brush through water and paint directly on the board. As the board dries and the water evaporates, your creations disappear, leaving a blank slate. This mindfulness practice is said to help clear your thoughts and harness the power to let go. Buddha Board, $38, Amazon.com

CRYSTALS Maybe you’re the type that’s ready to charge your rocks at the mention of a full moon—or maybe you’re just not. Either way, this crystal looks great atop a stack of books or on a nightstand. The rose quartz is the stone of unconditional love and is said to teach self-love and love of others—worth a try, right? Rose quartz crystal, from $8, BeforeNoon.co

BY L AU R E N K AY

Take Time to Rest Get your eight hours and then some with these sleep aids. From weighted blankets to noisecancelling earbuds, our picks will help you get your zzz’s.

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SLEEPPHONES

SLEEP AID

These are not your average headphones. Instead of streaming music or your favorite podcast, these noise-cancelling earbuds deliver soothing sounds that lull you into dreamland. The Bose app offers 50 sounds (think: running water, sea breezes) and a 10-hour battery life for a full night of rest.

Your head hits the pillow and your brain starts firing on all cylinders? Dodow is a metronome light that is designed to relax your mind, helping you drift off to sleep without popping a sleep aid. You focus on the hypnotic light (not your thoughts) and follow the guided breathing cues for a restful night.

Sleepbuds, $249, Amazon.com

Dodow, $59, MyDodow.com

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DROP ICON: IBED/NOUN PROJECT; ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF VENDOR

WELLNESS IS THE BUZZWORD OF 2022— AND FOR GOOD REASON. ON THE HEELS OF A GLOBAL PANDEMIC, WE’RE ALL TAKING NOTICE AND CHECKING IN, PRIORITIZING OUR HEALTH AND WELL-BEING. WE’VE ROUNDED UP OUR FAVORITE PICKS FOR YOUR REGISTRY TO GIVE YOU A STRONG START IN MARRIED LIFE.

DRAWING B OARD

Infuse your home with a refreshing and rejuvenating scent with this custom recipe. TEA TREE OIL

zen

FIND YOUR

VITRUVI “CLEAN HOUSE”

DIFFUSER Scents can totally alter your mood and take you back to a memory or a moment in time. The right aromas can even relax or energize you. The Vitruvi Move diffuser is a chic way to scent your space with natural essential oils—it’s totally portable, allowing you to transform any space with essences like lavender, spruce or eucalyptus. Move diffuser, $179, Vitruvi.com

SWEET ORANGE OIL

JOURNAL LEMON OIL

LEMONGRASS OIL

The practice of journaling has been linked to reducing stress and anxiety. Set intentions, take stock of your feelings and reflect, or chart your habits for a cathartic release. Add two to your registry and compare notes on what brings you joy. Wellness journal, $33, Papier.com

PEPPERMINT OIL

Wedding planning can take the wind out of your sails and catapult you to the top of Mount Everest, all in the same day. Maintain your peace of mind and state of calm with these handy helpers, well beyond your I dos.

SPRUCE OIL

CLEANSING KIT Change the energy in your newlywed space with this bundle kit. Cedar invites calmness, yerba santa offers protection and rosemary is associated with preparing spaces for new beginnings—apropos, no? Don’t forget to open a window or door to let the negative energy flow out.

The Move diffuser is meant to go wherever you need it.

DROP ICON: IBED/NOUN PROJECT; ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF VENDOR

Energy cleansing kit, $25, Crystals.com

WEIGHTED BLANKET

PILLOW SPRAY

EYE MASK

Tuck in under a 20-lb weight of soft cotton. The heft of the quilt helps release serotonin and reduces sleepdisrupting movements to give you a better snooze. It’s filled with glass beads, giving it a thin, breathable design. It’s also machine washable.

A mix of lavender, chamomile and vetiver come together in a super blend of sleep-inducing aromatherapy. Spritz on your pillow (or your pj’s) to calm your mind and body just before bed. The Deep Sleep spray is designed to help you nod off faster and stay asleep (night-wakers rejoice!) till sunrise.

This plush weighted mask will lull you to sleep with its strap-free design and contoured eye pads, aka your very own blackout shades. The weight of the mask helps reduce stress and anxiety and promotes a restful night’s sleep. Wish list two of these—you won’t want to share with your partner!

Deep Sleep pillow spray, $29, ThisWorks.com

Nodpod eye mask, $34, Anthropologie.com

Weighted blanket, Luna, $85, TheKnotRegistry.com

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STYLE + PLANNING

STAY

nourished STASHER BAGS

Reduce plasticbag waste with this silicone swap.

Pack healthy snacks for your adventures in these eco-friendly reusable bags. Crafted from foodsafe silicone, each Stasher bag is free from toxic chemicals and has an airtight seal to keep food fresh. You can toss the bags in the freezer or microwave too, for easy weeknight meal prep. Stasher 3-piece set, $45, TheKnotRegistry.com

SPIRALIZER Truth talk: Spiralizing is addictive. It’s rhythmic, wildly satisfying and best of all healthy. This tabletop model has suction cups for stability, a crank handle and teeth that hold food in place for fuss-free spiraling. It comes with three blades plus built-in storage— suddenly meatless Monday is within reach.

Tabletop spiralizer, OXO, $44, TheKnotRegistry.com

FEEL- GO OD SELTZER Swap your morning coffee or afternoon pick-me-up with a can of Recess sparkling water infused with adaptogens. Magnesium has mood-lifting powers, creating a calmer, cooler you. Bonus: each flavor is made with real fruit (think: peach ginger, blood orange, black cherry). Recess, $35 for an 8-pack, TakeARecess.com

Connect as a Couple Chemistry is key. Bond with your other half during the wedding planning process and beyond with these experiences that will help keep you in sync.

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CARD GAMES

DANCE CLAS SES

Think you know everything about your other half? Think again. This deck of 150 questions and wildcards is perfect for date night. It aims to help you start conversations you thought you’d never have and deepen your connection. Warning: Feelings are likely.

If you’re not already enrolled in dance classes, are you even getting married? An hour of locked-eye connection can do wonders for your relationship. Get in a couple of turns before you take center stage on your wedding night. Then, book a ballroom for date nights.

We’re Not Really Strangers game, $25, WereNotReallyStrangers.com

Dance classes, prices vary based on location, ArthurMurrayDanceClasses.com

12/20/21 11:00 AM

ICONS FROM LEFT: ADINDAR/NOUN PROJECT; LUKASZ M. POGODA/NOUN PROJECT; ALICE DESIGN/NOUN PROJECT; ROUNDICONS.COM/NOUN PROJECT; ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF VENDOR

Boost your energy and kick off married life on a healthy note with these kitchen helpers. These are picks you can feel good about too, from meatless Monday to sustainable stashers.

BREVILLE BLUICER BLENDER-JUICER

ICONS FROM LEFT: ADINDAR/NOUN PROJECT; LUKASZ M. POGODA/NOUN PROJECT; ALICE DESIGN/NOUN PROJECT; ROUNDICONS.COM/NOUN PROJECT; ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF VENDOR

The Bluicer is exactly what it sounds like—a hybrid kitchen electric appliance that juices and blends. It has five speeds and can make up to 50 oz. of juice at one time, perfect for couples eager to get their fruit and veggie fix. Steel blades make quick work and even crush ice, while an LCD screen takes the guesswork out of blend speeds.

Drink your fruits and veggies with this hybrid electric appliance.

Acai, Beet + Berry Bowl

Blend a healthy start to your day with this fruit-filled recipe.

Bluicer, Breville, $300, TheKnotRegistry.com

10 minutes 25 oz. (.75l) SERVES: 2 PREP:

MAKES:

INGREDIENTS

1 frozen banana, chopped ¾ cup (100 g) frozen blueberries 1 packet (100 g) frozen acai berry pulp

YOURS + MINE WATER B OTTLES The human body is made up of about 60% water, but let’s face it: When was the last time you had the suggested four to six glasses per day? A pair of Yeti Ramblers will encourage sipping and keep your H20 cold at home and on the go. A vacuum seal and controlled spout round out the features of this tumbler. Yeti Rambler, $60 for a set of 2, TheKnotRegistry.com

½ small beet, peeled, chopped 1 Tbl. whey or vegan protein powder (optional) ¾ cup (180 ml) chilled coconut water DIRECTIONS

Place ingredients into personal blender cup and secure blade assembly. Press GREEN SMOOTHIE / SMOOTHIE until program finishes. Blend longer if required.

Divide smoothie evenly between 2 bowls.

Serve topped with fresh blueberries, goji berries or organic granola.

COUNSELING

DATE NIGHT INSP O

Did you know people in happy marriages live 10 years longer on average? Here’s your chance to continue prioritizing your relationship after I do. The Lasting App is backed by Talkspace and rooted in research. It makes it easy for you and your other half to grow together.

“What do you want to do?” This date poster takes the guesswork out of the what, prompting fun ideas from visiting a new city to hosting friends for dinner. Best of all—it’s a scratch-off poster, making date completion as good as crossing something off a to-do list!

Membership, from $30, GetLasting.com

Poster, $15, Uncommongoods.com

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12/20/21 11:00 AM

STYLE + PLANNING

Planning Pitfalls That Drain You ( A N D W H AT T O D O I N S T E A D ) Planning a wedding is equal parts exciting and, well, stress-inducing. Keeping your mental health in check from the get-go is crucial. Sidestep these common snags with our tips. BY L AU R E N K AY

BECOMING OV E RW H E L M E D BY I N S P O Virtually anything can inspire your wedding vibe from a poem to a place or your four-legged friend Scout. It is easy to be overwhelmed by choice and even easier to find yourself down an inspo rabbit hole. Cut through the

noise and find one or two things that really represent you as a couple, that will make your guests exclaim “Oh, that’s so them.” Focus on these elements and tune out the rest. You don’t have to max out on ideas on your wedding day: there will be more parties in your future!

N OT M A N AG I N G E X P E C TAT I O N S Weddings bring about lots of feelings and their fair share of assumptions. From outside opinions to your own desires for the perfect day, it’s easy to get caught up in expectations. Don’t. You can’t please everyone and trying to do so will only deplete you. Instead, share your wishes early and clearly communicate with your partner throughout the planning process. Be upfront about things like the size of your wedding or your lack of a wedding party with family and friends—this will set

expectations and could lead to greater understanding and empathy along the way. Remember, this is your day.

BLOWING YO U R W E D D I N G BUDGET Money matters are never fun to discuss, but these convos are essential. Have “the talk” early with your partner and check in often. Aligning on a firm budget before you start signing contracts will save you lots of headaches (and maybe some heartache too) down the road. Once you have your number, get on the same page about top priorities, be it a marching band or a custom whiskey bar. The more you and your person can agree on your must haves, the easier it will be to spend wisely. Planning and paying for a wedding is serious business, so keep track of your expenses and plan for incidentals so you stay in the black.

INVITING TOO MANY GUESTS Align with your partner on the kind of wedding you want to have—intimate gathering or blowout bash—and search for a venue that accommodates your vision. Do not let your guest list exceed your venue’s maximum capacity. Read that again. You don’t want to be turning loved ones away at the door or lose your coveted dance floor to “emergency” tables. And remember, the guest count is a big factor in wedding costs. If you want to stretch your budget, trim your guest list.

GETTY IMAGES

et’s get this out of the way: a few things may go wrong on your wedding day. Your toasting flutes could get lost in transit, your DJ could forget his setlist or a thunderstorm could threaten your outdoor vows. Some things you can plan for, but others will be completely out of your control. Focusing your energy on what’s important in the months and days leading up to your wedding can save your sanity. Here are the most common blunders to avoid on your road to I do— and what to do instead.

M I C RO M A N AG I N G YO U R P R O S

T RY I N G T O DO IT ALL

Once you’ve done your diligence and booked your pros, sit back and trust them. Share your vision and discuss any must haves, from sugar blooms on your cake to a shot of your grandparents on the dance floor. Remember, you hired this team for their talents and expertise—let them shine. Attempting to micromanage your vendors will only create frustration and a longer to-do list than you have time for, trust us. Hiring a wedding planner to manage your whole crew is clutch, especially on the day of your I dos. Start there if you can, and everything else will fall into place.

You will have all the time in the world and more inspiration than you know what to do with—and then suddenly, no time at all. Overcommitting is the ultimate wedding pitfall. It will leave you stressed and depleted. Instead, choose two or three things that are important to you as a couple and focus on those. This goes for that long list of DIY projects too. When people offer to help, let them. Your wedding party is the perfect group to tap for todos, like stuffing envelopes or tying bows on favors. Delegate any nonessential tasks or reevaluate their place on your list altogether.

FORGETTING TO FOCUS O N W H AT ’ S I M P O R TA N T Don’t sweat the small stuff applies to wedding planning too. It’s easy to get lost in the details, but focus on the reason why you’re doing the thing and what will really stand out in your memories when you look back on the day. If you get bogged down with tasks or find yourself bickering over decisions, take a beat. Have a wedding-free night together reconnecting over your favorite meal or practicing your first dance. Tension is inevitable— taking regular pauses in the planning process allows you to reflect and refocus.

SETTING B O U N DA R I E S Bringing together two people (and their families) can create conflict. Setting clear boundaries with your partner and your loved ones can help you navigate planning stress. Bonus: You’re paving the way for future interactions with extended family. Be realistic about how much autonomy you’ll have (if other people are contributing financially they may want a say) and communicate clearly with your partner from the start. Embrace “no”—it’s okay to politely decline unsolicited advice and opinions. Check in with yourself and your partner to ensure things are going the way you hoped.

STYLE + PLANNING

YOUR ‘I DO’ HOW-TO

Download our app and get a personalized list of to-dos between now and wedding day.

S TA

WE GOT YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY. HERE ARE THE BIG TO-DOS FROM “YES” TO “I DO.” PLUS, THE 411 ON OUR TOOLS (PERSONALIZED CHECKLIST, WEDDING WEBSITE, CASH REGISTRY) THAT WILL HELP GET YOU THERE WITH EASE.

ALL YOURS

N AIL D OWN YO U R

B U D G ET

Envision your wedding and decide how much you want to spend (and if anyone else will be contributing).

FIN D YO U R

WE D D I N G S T YLE Not sure where to start (totally normal, btw)? Download The Knot Wedding Planner app and take our Style Quiz. Zero in on your vibe—think industrial with bohemian details—and we’ll generate a personalized Wedding Vision you can share with your pro squad.

P H OTO G R A P H BY J ES S I CA P E T T WAY

G AT H E R YOU R

C RE W

Ask your besties to stand by you at the altar and in the months leading up to your day. Celebrate your peeps and your engaged status!

KEEP

O RG AN I Z E D

Not sure what to do when? Enter: our app’s totally customizable checklist. If you’re asking a friend to officiate, you can cross “find an officiant” off your to-do list. There’s also a budgeter to track spending.

FIN D A

EDITOR TIP It’s okay to go out of order or not tick every item off the list. Ask for help from your wedding VIPs—they want to help, trust us.

VE N U E

Search for the perfect place to celebrate, keeping budget and guest count in mind. Then set the date.

EDITOR TIP Think about what you love as a couple. Are you homebodies or the types to dress up and hit the dance floor? Your wedding should be a true reflection of who you are, so let your personalities define your style. (FYI: Most couples aren’t just one style.)

H IRE YO UR

TE AM

Research and book pros—anyone you have to have should be locked in ASAP. If you share your info with us (budget, location, guest count), we can recommend vendors and help you assemble a stellar pro squad. You can find tons of talent on The Knot Marketplace and check out reviews from newlyweds who hired them.

G O FOR A

FIT TI N G

Have final attire fittings and arrange for dress and/or suit pickup.

F I NA LI Z E OT HE R

PART Y D ETAI L S

EDITOR TIP Get ready to celebrate! From engagement soirees to couples showers and bach weekends, there are lots of ways to party. Be sure to keep your registry stocked with gifts at various price points. And always show your gratitude for the hosts of these fun occasions.

PROP STYLING: ALEX SILVA/BA REPS; MANICURE: SHIRLEY CHENG FOR DIOR VERNIS. BRACELET BY KEMI DESIGNS. ALL ICONS NOUN PROJECT, FROM LEFT: OKSANA LATYSHEVA; DAILYYOUTH; PAVEL N.; MALIKOV; ERIS NATANSA; VASILY GEDZUN; NOCICONIST; OKSANA LATYSHEVA; PIXELICATOM; CHINTUZA; LASTSPARK

Plan your rehearsal dinner and morning-after brunch.

SH O P FO R

Meet with your officiant to discuss the details and attend prewedding counseling, if required.

Try on and purchase your wedding rings—then get insurance. (Now it’s starting to feel really real, right?)

RINGS

THE KNOT INVITATIONS

BU Y YOUR

PAPE R

D O SO M E M O RE

Select invites, thank-you notes and other day-of stationery. Need help with the design? No problem. You can get free paper samples and customize all the details of your wedding suite at TheKnot.com/paper.

We meant what we said—we’ve got you. Check out our best planning helpers.

INVITES

P L AN T HE

C E RE M O NY

TOP TOOLS

S H O PPI N G Find personalized decor, unique party favor ideas and wedding party gifts for all your peeps at TheKnotShop.com.

We’re here to help with all of your paper needs. Choose from tons of original designs— including our Black and Women’s Artist Collective collections (bonus: you can coordinate with your wedding website)—and save time with guest addressing.

GET YO UR

WE D D I N G WE B S ITE Head to TheKnot.com to start your very own website. Share the link so guests are in on the details, like room blocks and your registry. Include any FAQs or changes due to COVID-19. You can even stay on top of your RSVPs with our built-in tool.

MAKE A

REG I S TRY People will want to shower you with gifts from “we’re engaged” to your wedding day, so a wish list is a must. Build yours on The Knot and add items from our expansive store or wherever you shop online using our universal registry tool. The Knot Gifts Back makes a donation to a charity of your choice for every gift purchased off your registry!

WE AR

Shop for your attire and schedule necessary fittings—don’t forget accessories. Choose what your wedding party will wear too.

EDITOR TIP The Knot Registry also lets you ask for cash for things like a down payment on a home or an epic future trip to Bali. Yes, you read that right: It’s okay to ask for $$$.

Head to the state registrar’s office in the county where you’ll wed for this must-have doc.

CH O O SE A

P O I NT PE R S O N If you don’t have a wedding planner or day-of coordinator, task an attendant or family member to be the go-to so you can relax and enjoy the day.

PRO M PT

PH OTO S Share your personalized wedding hashtag with guests to encourage picture posting. Bonus: It will be easy to collect all those wonderful moments you may miss.

M ET AR

R I E D!

D EC I D E W H AT TO

MARRIAGE LICENSE

C R E AT E A

The planning and hard work are behind you— time to celebrate your new status.

VIP TEAM

THE KNOT MARKETPLACE Find the most talented pros to bring your day to life. Read reviews from other couples who have hired them. If you’re looking to support businesses owned by underrepresented groups, filters can help you do just that.

WISH LIST

THE KNOT REGISTRY Build an epic wish list on The Knot with handpicked products, experiences, cash and even gift cards. And you can link your registry to a charity of your choice to give back with every purchase made.

You Can Totally Have a Brunch Wedding. Make It .

Y ou

Kir Tuben Photography

With 300,000+ trusted vendors, reviews from other couples and personalized recommendations, find the team that’ll bring your wedding vision to life.

TK Editorial Print Ads_Final.indd 3

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S P R I N G 2 0 2 2

R E A L L OV E

-Ilaire PHOTOGRAPH BY DARINIMAGES

MICRO, MINIMAL, MEANINGFUL, INTIMATE , INTENTIONAL, INNOVATIVE— THOSE PRINCIPLES G U I D E D O U R D A Y. I N N U M E R O L O G Y, MMMIII OR 3003 REPRESENTS THE POWER OF CREATIVITY THAT CAN BRING JOY TO EVERYONE.

REAL LOVE

Ilaire + David

4 � 4 � 2 0 2 1 | P H U K E T, T H A I L A N D

DA R K N E S S T O L I G H T PHOTOGRAPHS BY DARINIMAGES EVENT PLANNING BY WEDDING BOUTIQUE PHUKET

OVERCOME WITH JOY “There was a unique, warm feeling of a new beginning on our wedding day and it will be never be forgotten,” recalls Ilaire of the euphoria that filled every part of her nuptials to David.

REAL LOVE

TOKEN OF LOVE

During the ceremony, Ilaire and David exchanged wedding rings that bore the inscription “never give up” as a reminder of their promise and commitment to each other.

SKULL STYLE For the wedding day, Ilaire rocked a crop-top-and-skirt look that she designed because she “couldn’t imagine wearing something that was not designed by me.” Meanwhile, David donned a white T-shirt that befit his laid-back style and finished off the ensemble with a skull-and-rose patternlined jacket. DRAMATIC DESIGNS The day’s arrangements included some phalaenopsis orchids and Quicksand roses, but focused predominantly on nonfloral elements like pampas grass, dried palm fronds and ruscus leaves. CONFETTI CASCADE “Even after planning 200 weddings, I still get excited about petal tosses and I couldn’t wait to experience that moment for ourselves!” says Ilaire. “Our recessional was such an explosion of fun that the photographer asked us to do it twice!”

ith the pandemic affecting their life and business, Ilaire (41 and a wedding planner and stylist) and David (41 and works in business) decided to find “beauty from the ashes of these tough times” by tying the knot with a microwedding. Although only 18 people were able to be there in person (Ilaire’s parents in Italy had to tune in virtually), the couple leaned into making good times out of bad, so much so that they centered the design around the interplay between light and darkness. After first introducing the “day to night and night to day” concept with their invites, they reinforced the aesthetic with an uneven ceremony aisle. The left had ghost chairs while the right was all black. The white-and-black details didn’t end there—two-tone macarons accompanied bubbly at the reception. — HAN NAH N OWAC K

REAL LOVE MODERN MINIMALISM When it came to designing their reception tablescape, the couple focused on the idea that “less is more. We wanted to clear the visual clutter by sticking with solid, neutral colors, and by choosing modern chairs and linear decor elements,” says Ilaire. FESTIVE FARE “We are foodies, and we are Italian so, naturally, the dinner menu was definitely very important to us,” says Ilaire. “We served Hokkaido scallops, truffles and lobster, plus Billecart-Salmon rosé to drink. And at the end of the evening, as a nod to a tradition from our hometown, we enjoyed a chocolate bar.” PERSONAL PASTRIES Ilaire and David’s two-tier cake with a dramatic brushstroke design was just used for their ceremonial cake cutting—each guest was given their own individual cake to eat.

WEDDING VISION

I L A I R E + D AV I D

O E L O

G WEDDING STYLE A M O D E R N meets BO H O celebration. Say “I do” on the B E AC H before hosting a reception at a TRO PI CAL R ESO RT or aboard a YAC HT .

ET TH

1 Tuxedo, jacket in sizes up to 58, pants in sizes up to 54, $145 to rent, TheBlackTux.com 2 Top, in sizes up to 14, $90, skirt, in sizes up to 14, $280, DavidsBridal.com 3 Wood charger, $20, CrateandBarrel.com 4 28" Lantern, $100, $20 CrateandBarrel.com 5 Cocktail glass, $32 for set of 4, Food52.com 6 Elegant edge wedding invitations, $259 for set of 100, TheKnot.com 7 Dried palms, $26 for set of 3, Afloral.com

COLOR PALETTE LI G HT AN D DAR K A contemporary juxtaposition

of jet black and crisp white accented by natural caramel and taupe hues.

MUST-HAVES S K I P TR AD ITI O N Ilaire and David opted out of traditions, like the first dance, that didn’t fit them. “I am a former ballerina and David is too shy so we couldn’t agree on the dance!” CO N SCI O U S VE N U E The couple chose Rosewood Hotel because of the property’s commitment to sustainability. M E ANT TO B E Though Ilaire and David

connected in their thirties, they later found out they attended primary school together.

GET THE LOOK: GLASSWARE: ROCKY LUTEN/FOOD52; ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF VENDOR

INGREDIENTS C E R E M O NY + R EC E PTI O N S ITE Rosewood Hotel, Phuket, Thailand PH OTOG R APHY darinimages VI D EOG R APHY Tichakorn Cinematography E VE NT PL AN N I N G + D ES I G N Wedding Boutique Phuket FLO R AL D ES I G N Art of Flower O FFI CIANT Marek Koperski GOWN Exclusive Tailoring S U IT Exclusive Tailoring S H I RT Armani S H O ES Ilaire: Jimmy Choo; David: Adidas WE DD I N G RI N G S Lulu Belle Island HAI R Andrija Rubich MAK EU P Angie Ritter, Phuket Hair & Makeup S TATI O N E RY Invitations: November Letters; day-of stationery: Card Coach R E NTAL S Altar: Qidd Design & Production; chairs: Rento Phuket; M Luxury Event Mangagment CATE R I N G Rosewood Phuket CAK E Joob Joob Bakery

#MAKETRADITION “A sentence that I kept at the core while wedding planning was ‘in good and in bad times, under the moon and stars, as day turns into night and night turns into day,’ ” says Ilaire. As a nod to that idea, Ilaire and David commissioned a custom-designed moon-shaped altar backdrop. Five people helped make the wood structure, which was painted with a marble-inspired effect before being finished with copper leafing. Take our style quiz to create your own wedding vision by downloading THE K N OT WE D D IN G PL ANNE R APP

THE STRONG CONTRAST BETWEEN BLACK AND WHITE AND NIGHT AND DAY WAS O U R W AY O F V I S U A L LY EMPHASIZING THE RESILIENCE AND DEEP MEANING OF A WEDDING CELEBRATED, N O M A T T E R W H A T, D U R I N G A T O U G H M O M E N T.

-Ilaire

REAL LOVE

Suniti + Sam

8�14�2021 | SNOWMASS, CO

M O U N TA I N S U N S H I N E PHOTOGRAPHS BY KYLE JOHN PHOTOGRAPHY EVENT PLANNING BY BLUEBIRD PRODUCTIONS

BLENDING CULTURES

“I wanted the ceremony to feel Indian, despite being in the middle of the Rockies,” says Suniti. A mandap with Moghul-style arches and yellow blooms did just that.

REAL LOVE

OMBRÉ DESIGNS

White and orange roses and yellow dahlias gave the centerpieces a gradient look.

MEANINGFUL PAPER “I wanted the invitation suite to reflect nature and the beauty of the Rockies but also my Indian culture,” says Suniti. The couple’s stationer brought in artistic motifs that nodded to Moghul arches and jaali screens. SOPHISTICATED STYLE “I wore Indian clothes by Indian designers for all of the events. I wanted to have a different look for each event and make sure the dress matched the feel of the event as well as the natural setting,” says Suniti. EVOLUTION OF COLORS Every event showcased a different color palette. Cheery peach and tangerine hues welcomed guests to the mehndi. Pastel purples and blues accompanied the mountaintop sangeet. Then, for the garba, Suniti and Sam went with rich jewel tones like emerald, teal and fuchsia to bring the secret garden theme to life.

alancing cohesion and distinction can be a tricky task when planning not one but seven wedding events. However, the beautiful backdrop of Aspen, Colorado, simplified the task for Suniti Mehta (32 and a lawyer) and Samuel (Sam) Philipsek (33 and a lawyer) who allowed the beauty of nature to inspire each component of their destination wedding. Guests were welcomed to the Rockies with a sangeet atop Aspen mountain where they sipped Aperol spritzes. For the garba, attendees entered the jewel-tone space through a greenery tunnel into a secret garden oasis. While epic on their own, each prewedding event was simply a sneak peek of the main event: a mountain-view ceremony with sunny yellow blooms followed by a tented starry-night-themed reception with innovative food and luxe velvet details. — H N

STARRY NIGHT “For the reception, our stationer translated the evening’s starry night theme into our escort card display by hanging star lanterns that guests could take home.” When guests got to their seats they were greeted by place cards that “had small fairy lights inside of them,” says Suniti. ART DECO ACCENTS To complement the tented reception’s celestial theme, Suniti and Sam brought in linear, gold art deco accents. “Our design team created custom bars and a dance floor with those art deco architectural elements. They also found amazing antique mirrored tables and lamps that were a perfect fit,” says Suniti. GOLD GODDESS Suniti donned multiple outfits over the course of the wedding celebration, but her “almost Grecian” gold lehenga was her favorite.

REAL LOVE A monogram turns a simple ring box into an instant heirloom.

WEDDING VISION

ET TH

WEDDING STYLE A VI B R ANT multicultural affair inspired by NATU R E and the CO LO RS O F I N D IA . A M O U NTAI N LO DG E or VI N E YAR D would be a perfect venue.

CO R N U CO PIA O F CO LO R Vibrant shades of gold, tangerine, lemon, mustard, apricot, fuchsia, teal and navy.

COLOR PALETTE

O E L O

6 5

SUNITI + SAM

1 Velvet chair, $398, Anthropologie.com 2 Chandelier, $2,550, InteriorHomeScapes.com 3 Gold flatware, $100 for 20-piece set, CB2.com 4 Engraved ring $115 TheMrsBox.com box, $115, 5 Sherwani in sizes up to XL, $1,560 AnitaDongre.com $1,560, 6 Lehenga in sizes up to XXXL, $14,280 AnitaDongre.com $14,280, 7 Napkin, $20 for set of 4, $26 Food52.com 8 Wine glass, $26, Bloomingdales.com

MUST-HAVES TH ROWBAC K FI RS T DAN C E “I Only Have Eyes for

You,” by The Flamingos, played for the first dance because “I love oldies,” says Suniti.

PLE NT Y O F S U G AR The couple served quite a few

desserts “inspired by New York, Indian and Japanese flavors. We had everything from ice cream pops to s’mores to brownie sundaes.” M I N D FU L PL AN N I N G “My sister helped me to step back and take time to think through decisions,” says Suniti.

INGREDIENTS

GET THE LOOK: COURTEY OF VENDORS

#MAKETRADITION Expressing their gratitude to attendees by gifting everyone meaningful favors was a priority for Suniti and Sam. In addition to welcome bags that included “some local treats and nods to New York,” the couple also set up a bazaar-inspired gifting station at the garba. While at the favor station guests got to create their own piece of framed art with pressed flowers. Take our style quiz to create your own wedding vision by downloading THE K N OT WE D D IN G PL ANNE R APP

AT THE GARBA , WE INCLUDED TRADITIONAL INDIAN GIFTS LIKE J E W E L R Y, P E N C I L S A N D EVEN INDIAN DOLLS THAT WERE A BIG HIT W I T H T H E A D U LT S A N D THE KIDS.

-Suniti

C E R E M O NY S ITE Chaparral Ranch, Woody Creek, Colorado R EC E PTI O N S ITE Maurin Ranch, Snowmass, Colorado PH OTOG R APHY Kyle John Photography VI D EOG R APHY East West Productions E VE NT PL AN N I N G Bluebird Productions FLO R AL + E VE NT D ES I G N Design House Décor O FFI CIANT Pujya Dineshbhai Jani M E H N D I AT TI R E Suniti: Abhinav Mishra; Sam: J.Crew SAN G E ET AT TI R E Suniti: Sabyasachi MAN DVO AT TI R E Suniti: Manyavar G AR BA AT TI R E Suniti: Anita Dongre; Sam: Millionaire C E R E M O NY AT TI R E Suniti: Anita Dongre; Sam: Anita Dongre R EC E PTI O N AT TI R E Suniti: Amit Aggarwal; Sam: SuitSupply S H O ES Suniti: Needledust; Stuart Weitzman; Sam: Cole Haan; Needledust ACC ES SO R I ES Natraj Jewelers; Anita Dongre E N G AG E M E NT R I N G Kwiat HAI R Salon Tullio MAK EU P Creating Faces; henna: Henna Me Beautiful WE D D I N G PART Y AT TI R E Manyavar S TATI O N E RY + WE LCO M E BAG S The Idea Emporium R E NTAL S Premier Party Rentals CATE R I N G Bukhara Grill; The Paanwaala; Pinch Food Design; Sweet Pistachio; Epicure; The Little Nell PH OTO BOOTH Social Light TR AN S P O RTATI O N CTS Aspen

REAL LOVE

Catherine + Wilson � � 3 28 2021 | MALIBU, CA

TWINKLING ROMANCE PHOTOGRAPHS BY ETHER & SMITH EVENT PLANNING BY MILK EVENTS

GIFTED FASHION Catherine completed her look with a diamond tennis necklace, bracelet and earrings from her in-laws.

BESPOKE CORRESPONDENCE Catherine loves stationery so she went all out with calligraphy and wax seal details for the invitation design. DELISH MENU Guests were given a choice of three entrées: miso-marinated black cod, hanger steak with chimichurri or Maine lobster. For dessert, an array of mochi doughnuts, with flavors ranging from matcha to black sesame and strawberry, accompanied a simple buttercream cake. PARTY TUNES Personalized musical selections were paramount for Catherine and Wilson. The ceremony included the wedding party processing to the K-pop hit “Feel Special,” by Twice. The couple later recessed while a finger-style guitar version of the Naruto: Shippuden theme song “Closer,” by Joe Inoue, rang out. At the reception, the DJ spun Top 40 and Chinese karaoke hits.

lthough the pandemic forced Catherine Hsu (31 and a metrology specialist) and Wilson Le (31 and an operations manager) to change venues midway through planning, they didn’t let that roadblock derail their vision for a “classic English garden” celebration. In the end, the couple’s dream came to life with a wedding ceremony in front of a lush floral arch, followed by dinner under a canopy of twinkle lights. Yet, despite the beautiful program of events they planned, the duo’s favorite moment of the entire day took place before all of that when they shared their first look. “Sometimes in the midst of planning you forget the reason for having a wedding in the first place. It was nice to get a quiet moment with Wilson to exchange vows privately before everything started,” says Catherine. — H N

REAL LOVE

WEDDING VISION

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C AT H E R I N E + W I L S O N

WEDDING STYLE A RO MANTI C affair inspired by G AR D EN ELEG AN CE . Select a VI N E YAR D or H I S TO R I C ES TATE with manicured grounds as the wedding venue. COLOR PALETTE

Feel free to customize dress details, like sleeves, to ensure you love the look.

M UTE D PAS TE L S Dusty shades of gray,

blue and beige anchored by warm white hues and ample lush greenery.

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H I G H SC H OO L TH ROWBAC K Catherine and

Wilson shared a first dance to “Stolen,” by Dashboard Confessional.

O E L O

HAN D MAD E ACC ES SO R I ES To complement her

off-the-shoulder crepe wedding dress with lace appliqués, Catherine handcrafted crystal hairpins to adorn her updo. I NTI MATE WE D D I N G PART Y The couple kept their wedding party small—only their siblings served as wedding attendants.

MUST-HAVES

1 Hairpins, $100 for set of 3, TwigsandHoney.com 2 Chandelier, $420, Build.com 3 Silk ribbon, $17 for 3 yards, CourtneyInghram.com 4 Cake stand, $20, CrateandBarrel.com 5 Tuxedo with jacket in sizes up to 70R, pants in sizes up to 48, $233 to rent, FriarTux.com 6 Dress in sizes up to 32, $2,000, Pronovias.com 7 Classic floral wedding invitations, $199 for 100, TheKnot.com 8 Wax seal, $18 for 25, Artisaire.com

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INGREDIENTS C E R E M O NY + R EC E PTI O N S ITE Saddlerock Ranch, Malibu, California PH OTOG R APHY Ether & Smith E VE NT PL AN N I N G Milk Events FLO R AL D ES I G N De Flora O FFI CIANT Geng Wang, friend GOWN Pronovias; Andrea & Leo Couture VE I L Twigs & Honey; hairpins: DIY TUXE DO Friar Tux S H O ES Catherine: Jimmy Choo E N G AG E M E NT R I N G Merry Richards Jewelers HAI R + MAK EU P Chiali Meng Artistry WE D D I N G PART Y AT TI R E Bridesmaids: One Fell Swoop; groomsmen: Friar Tux S TATI O N E RY Taobao; escort cards: Kylie Yoshida; menus: Milk & Paper R E NTAL S Party Premier Rents; TMM Pro CATE R I N G Hungry Bear Catering Co. CAK E Susie Cakes DJ TMM Pro PH OTO BOOTH Pixster

GET THE LOOK: COURTESY OF VENDORS

#MAKETRADITION Before their Western wedding ceremony, Catherine and Wilson paid respect to their families and their heritage with a traditional Chinese tea ceremony. Another way the two honored their parents was through thoughtfully prioritizing bilingual communication. The couple had their invitation printed in both English and Chinese, and hired a Mandarin-speaking wedding planner to ensure clear communication. Take our style quiz to create your own wedding vision by downloading THE K N OT WE D D IN G PL ANNE R APP

I T W A S R E A L LY IMPORTANT TO US TO INCORPORATE A CHINESE TEA CEREMONY INTO THE WEDDING TO SHOW RESPECT AND GRATITUDE TO OUR PARENTS FOR ALL THEIR YEARS OF LOVE AND CARE.

-Catherine

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REAL LOVE

Will + Ted

9 � 2 4 � 2 0 2 1 | S T. M I C H A E L S , M D

SA I L AWAY W I T H M E P H O T O G R A P H S B Y L I S A Z I E S I N G F O R A B B Y J I U P H O T O G R A P H Y E V E N T P L A N N I N G B Y S I M P LY C H I C E V E N T S

CURATED TABLE “We’re big fans of textures, so we played with a mix of fabrics, fruits and florals for the centerpieces.”

EFFORTLESS RELAXATION “How do we make people feel at home?” That question guided Will and Ted all throughout their planning. In the end, what they came up with “amounted to the princess party that Will had always secretly dreamed of.” REFINED MENU The couple served two signature cocktails: Ted’s was “The Meister,” a whiskey and mezcal cocktail with smoked maple syrup and lemon peel, and Will’s was “The Downstairs Grandpa,” a strawberry-basil gin and tonic. Dinner was a three-course meal that included corn soufflé and crab ravioli. FASHION-FORWARD In addition to their own bespoke looks (which they accented with floral lapel pins), Ted and Will wanted attendees to “find themselves in their outfits. We wanted them to sparkle too!”

magine waking up in the middle of the woods in France and suddenly you stumble upon a fresh picnic surrounded by flowers—that’s exactly the vibe William (Will) Peters (24) and Theodore (Ted) Gendron (27) wanted to capture with their waterfront wedding. “A woodland fall ball, if you will,” says Ted. “We’ve always been drawn into the concept of a scene that looks like it’s just growing up from the ground and drenched in florals. Both of our moms are huge gardeners, so we wanted to create a floral landscape across the grounds that transported guests from one scene to the other.” Accomplishing that feeling of effortless “natural abundance” they sought extended beyond just the wedding day. Prewedding massages helped everyone relax while a postwedding sail capped off the waterfront weekend. — H N

REAL LOVE

WEDDING VISION

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WEDDING STYLE EU RO PE AN G AR D E N vibes inspired by Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette. Exchange vows at a H I STO R I C ES TATE or BOTAN I C G AR D E N .

O E L O

WILL + TED

1 Earrings, $725, MiuMiu.com 2 Ring box, $75, TheStylingReserve.com 3 Tuxedo, jacket in sizes up to 58, pants in sizes up to 54, $145 to rent, TheBlackTux.com 4 Striped dinner plate, $42, NeimanMarcus.com 5 Scalloped dinner plate, $184 for set of 4, FineLinens.com 6 Dining chair, $464, EnglishElm.com 7 Sneakers in sizes up to 12, $1,690, NeimanMarcus.com

COLOR PALETTE

S E AS I D E S TRO LL Ocean-inspired blues with

gold accents. Fresh florals in shades of ivory, apricot and shamrock are a must.

6 MUST-HAVES CU S TO M R I N G Ted proposed to Will with a three-

stone ring in a platinum channel setting that has Christmas-light-inspired gemstones on the inside as a nod to their first date. PE RSO NALIZE D PAPE R The save-the-date included an illustration of the plot of land where Will and Ted are building a home.

FI RS T DAN C E The duo shared a first dance to

Ben Platt’s cover of Lady Gaga’s “Yoü and I,” a song they love for its “feeling and grit.” INGREDIENTS

GET THE LOOK: RING BOX: SERA PETRAS; ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF VENDORS

Will: Etsy; Hermès; Miu Miu; YSL; Carolina Herrera; Ted: Etsy; Eton; Dior; Versace; Cartier E N G AG E M E NT RI N G S Will: CustomMade; Ted: David Yurman WE DD I N G RI N GS Will: CustomMade; Ted: Cartier HAI R + MAK EU P Caitlyn Meyer WE D D I N G PART Y AT TI R E Vince Camuto; Indochino S TATI O N E RY Invitations: Carly Thaw Illustration; menus: Muse Calligraphy UK R E NTAL S Something Vintage Rentals + Design; Emerson James; La Tavola CATE R I N G + D ES S E RT The Inn at Perry Cabin M U S I C Lamplighter from Elan Artists

#MAKETRADITION At the wedding Will and Ted’s moms gave them lockets with pictures of their grandparents, none of whom were able to witness the wedding, inside. “It was an incredibly unexpected and thoughtful way to bring such important people in our lives into the ceremony. There were many moments we wished we would have gotten to share with the eight of them, but having them physically so close to our hearts made it all the easier.” Take our style quiz to create your own wedding vision by downloading THE K N OT WE D D IN G PL ANNE R APP

IT WOULD’VE BEEN SOMETHING FOR THEM TO S E E T H I S D A Y, G I V E N T H E WORLD THEY GREW UP IN. SOME OF THEM MAY HAVE FAINTED, BUT WE WOULD’VE GIVEN ANYTHING TO FAN THEM BACK AWAKE TO S E E T H I S B I G , G A Y D A Y.

-Ted

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C E R E M O NY + R EC E PTI O N S ITE The Inn at Perry Cabin, St. Michaels, Maryland PH OTOG R APHY Lisa Ziesing for Abby Jiu Photography E VE NT PL AN N I N G + D ES I G N Simpy Chic Events FLO R AL D ES I G N Sweet Root Village O FFI CIANT Lauren Peters, Will’s sister TUXE DO S Ermenegildo Zegna S H O ES Will: Alexander McQueen; Ted: Ferragamo ACC ES SO R I ES

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REAL LOVE

Ar yanna + Doug

5�31�2021 | COLUMBIA, SC

P R E P PY I N T H E PA R K P H O T O G R A P H S B Y J E S S I C A H U N T P H O T O G R A P H Y E V E N T P L A N N I N G B Y B Y I N V I TAT I O N O N LY E V E N T P L A N N I N G & D E S I G N

CONVERTIBLE DRESS Aryanna took the sleeves of her A-line wedding dress off for the reception.

WELCOME TOAST The good times began the minute guests arrived— attendees received flutes of champagne as they were seated. DREAMY BLOOMS To complement the lush garden venue, Aryanna and Doug included roses, delphinium, lisianthus, peonies, baby’s breath, anthurium and orchids in their floral arrangements. CEREMONY WITH A TWIST The couple brought their own spin to the ceremony decor. Instead of a rounded arch they opted for a wavy design. And in keeping with the asymmetry, the gold chairs were swathed in pink fabric in lieu of traditional covers. DIY DETAILS Aryanna took on designing the wedding stationery herself, including the couple’s monogrammed crest. Meanwhile, she tapped one of her bridesmaid’s sisters to deck out a custom denim jacket for her.

or many, their hashtag is one of the last things they decide on during wedding planning. But given their careers in marketing, it’s no surprise that that wasn’t the case for Aryanna Harrell (30 and works in social media marketing) and Douglas (Doug) Morgan (32 and works in sports marketing). The duo came up with #MagicallyMorgan at the onset and let their fairy-tale theme flow from there. Aryanna’s princess-like dress further informed the aesthetic, so much so that she revamped the event’s blue-and-pink palette to give it more of a Bridgerton-meets-Cinderella vibe after saying yes to the dress. Beyond designing a magical wedding, the couple also kept their vision for a happily ever after at the core of their planning. “We went on frequent walks and always reminded each other of what was really important.” — H N

REAL LOVE

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WEDDING VISION A R YA N N A + D O U G 4 3 WEDDING STYLE A WH I M S I CAL fete filled with O PU LE N C E and RO MAN C E . Invite guests to a CAS TLE , H OTE L BALLROO M or even a VI N E YAR D. COLOR PALETTE PR E PPY PAS TE L S Soft bubblegum pink and

O E L O

G MUST-HAVES FR ES H K I C KS Doug completed his wedding

ensemble with blue-and-white Nike Air Jordans and a pair of lucky socks. S U N R I S E YOG A “On the wedding morning, I had one of my best friends lead a yoga session. It was the perfect way to start the day, release emotions and get grounded,” says Aryanna.

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sky blue set the tone while gold, dusty peach and ivory round out the scheme.

1 Denim jacket in sizes up to XL, $80, BostonProper.com 2 Sofa, $1,233, Overstock.com 3 Sneakers in sizes up to 18, $259,, StadiumGoods.com 4 Sparkling wine, $69, $69 OneHopeWine.com 5 Dress in $2,245, KleinfeldBridal.com sizes up to 34, $2,245 6 Suit with jacket in sizes up to 66, pants in sizes up to 40, $139 to rent, GenerationTux.com 7 Cake knife and $48, Amazon.com server set $48

B U B B LY FAVO RS “My love language is wine, so everyone left with a custom glitter bottle of sparkling wine,” says Aryanna.

INGREDIENTS

GET THE LOOK: COURTESY OF VENDORS

#MAKETRADITION For the wedding reception, Aryanna and Doug seated all their guests at one big oblong table. “We’re both big on equality and inclusiveness, and since our group was small, we wanted to create a unifying environment where no one felt more or less important due to their seat,” explains Doug of the unique seating arrangement. Take our style quiz to create your own wedding vision by downloading THE K N OT WE D D IN G PL ANNE R APP

IT WAS IMPORTANT FOR US TO SHARE THIS MOMENT TOGETHER WITH OUR LOVED ONES. THERE WAS NO ‘G O O D TA B L E ,’ W E W E R E ALL EQUAL AND COULD LOOK EACH OTHER SQUARE IN THE EYES.

-Doug

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C E R E M O NY + R EC E PTI O N S ITE Lace House at Arsenal Hill, Columbia, South Carolina PH OTOG R APHY Jessica Hunt Photography VI D EOG R APHY Matthew Weathersby E VE NT PL AN N I N G By Invitation Only Event Planning & Design FLO R AL D ES I G N Xpressions Floral Design O FFI CIANT Reverend Damion J. Brown, friend GOWN Journey; New York Bride & Groom of Columbia VE I L Kim Alpha Bridal S U IT Menguin S H O ES Aryanna: Nine West; Doug: Nike ACC ES SO R I ES Aryanna: Rebeka Jewelry E N G AG E M E NT R I N G Montrose Jewelers HAI R Alter-Image Bridal Hair & Makeup MAK EU P Antonia Scott Beauty WE D D I N G PART Y AT TI R E Revelry S TATI O N E RY Design: DIY; invitation printing: Zola; menu printing: Zazzle R E NTAL S Party Reflections; Sound & Images CATE R I N G Southern Way Catering BAR One Hope Wine; Post Meridiem Spirits; Cajun Fire Brewing Company DJ DJ Puff TR AN S P O RTATI O N Blue 72 SC; CLT Express

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DEAR READER, IT’S NOT JUST THE TON THAT ARE ABUZZ WITH BRIDGERTON FEVER. THIS SEASON’S MOST FASHIONABLE WEDDING GOWNS ARE DEFINED BY GRAND SILHOUETTES, PUFF SLEEVES AND DECADENT FLORAL MOTIFS. IF YOU ARE SEARCHING FOR YOUR OWN DRESS STRAIGHT FROM THE WINDOWS OF THE MODISTE, GENTLE READER, SEARCH NO FURTHER.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BY

TAYO KUKU

SHELLEY BROWN

NATIONAL 2 COND BOLD 9 +80

PHOTO HAIR CREDIT AND MAKEUP: MIKA SHIMODA FOR CHANEL BEAUTY AT ART DEPARTMENT; PROP STYLING: ED GALLAGHER AT BIG LEO. OPPOSITE: SHUTTERSTOCK

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PRINTS CHARMING Dress in sizes up to 18, $8,900, MoniqueLhuillier.com; earrings, $10,640, CathyWaterman.com; shoes, $1,875, RogerVivier.com

NATIONAL 2 LIGHT 8PT +40

GARDEN PARTY Dress in sizes up to 22, $5,495, Amsale.com; earrings, $250, NicolaBathie.com

PHOTO CREDIT

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NATIONAL 2 COND BOLD 9 +80

HAUTE TEA Dress in sizes up to 18, $5,500, ReemAcra.com; ring, price upon request, GreenwichJewelers.com

PHOTO CREDIT

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BELLE OF THE BALL Dress in sizes up to 22, $7,260, RitaVinieris.com; earrings, $69, MadebyMaddieDesigns.com

DRESSED TO FRILL Dress in sizes up to 24, $3,650, OdylynetheCeremony.com; engagement ring, $49,000, ErstwhileJewelry.com; earrings, $300, NicolaBathie.com

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BODICE OF WORK Dress in sizes up to 14, $8,360, HermioneDePaula.com; earrings, $85, MadebyMaddieDesigns.com

GRAND EXIT Dress in sizes up to 18, $10,500, ReemAcra.com; earrings, $4,400, SimonGJewelry.com

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HIGH COLOR

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Dress in sizes up to 16, $2,995, Markarian-NYC.com; engagement ring, $15,000, ErstwhileJewelry.com; earrings, $295, JenniferBehr.com

SPECIAL THANKS Planning your own Bridgertoninspired affair? Consider the historic NYIT de Seversky Mansion in Brookville, New York. Built in 1918 in Georgian Revival style, the grand estate offers opulent architecture, landscaped grounds and elegantly decorated rooms with distinctive Old-World charm. Learn more at NYIT.edu/deSeversky

PRETTY PROMENADE Dress in sizes up to 30, $3,150, HoughtonNYC.com; earrings, $295, JenniferBehr.com

TRAVEL

TRIPS TO THE THE MOST TRANSFORMATIONAL JOURNEYS ARE THE ONES THAT IGNITE OUR SENSES WITH DISTINCTIVE FLAVORS, SIGHTS AND SOUNDS. HERE ARE SIX GETAWAYS THAT WILL LEAVE YOU AWED. BY JEN MURPHY

CHASE THE SUN IN

BIG SUR, CALIFORNIA The drive along Highway 1 is one of America’s classic road trips and Big Sur its most iconic stop. WHEN TO GO The weather is nearly always perfect on the Central Coast but summer has the most consistent sun.

WHY VISIT A combination of wild coastline and parks filled with ancient redwoods provide a romantic mystique that has lured creatives and cultural influencers here for decades.

W H E R E T O S TA Y Alila Ventana Big Sur celebrates the destination with amenities like walking sticks and binoculars that encourage exploration. Each of the 59 rooms, suites and villas has a balcony or patio with mountain or ocean views; some have honeymoon-worthy splurges like open-air showers, hot tubs and cozy fireplaces. From $1,500 R OMA N T IC MOME N T The night sky in Big Sur looks like a sea of sparkling diamonds. Soak it in on a star bathing experience in a forest of old-growth redwoods guided by their resident astronomer. $150 per person for two hours D ON ’T MIS S Take a spiritual guided hike through madrone and redwood forest punctuated by cascading waterfalls. The tour culminates with lunch overlooking the Pacific. $250 for four hours

Due to COVID-19, reopening times and prices are subject to change.

U N L O C K C U LT U R A L E X P E R I E N C E S I N

SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO Adobe architecture, abundant art and sensational Southwestern cuisine distinguish this city.

WHE R E TO STA Y A storied property recently reimagined, the new Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection feels like its own little village nestled on 317 acres. Kiva ﬁreplaces, Navajo rugs and local artwork are featured in all 100 guest rooms. The godfather of Southwestern cuisine, chef Dean Fearing, created the restaurant menu and this summer an ambitious healing arts studio will open. From $799: aubergeresorts.com/bishopslodge

RO M A NT I C M O M E N T Book the new wave hot-tub suite at Japanese-inspired spa Ten Thousand Waves for its unique underwater recliner for two, plus the spacious sauna, and cold plunge. $69 per person for 90 minutes; tenthousandwaves.com DON’T MISS

SEEK INDULGENCES IN

You’ll want to devote at least three hours to exploring the 70-plus psychedelic rooms in Meow Wolf ’s mind-altering, interactive arts exhibit House of Eternal Return. $35; meowwolf.com

NEW YORK CITY No city on earth inspires quite like Manhattan with its vibrant cultural institutions, creative culinary scene, landmark architectural buildings and plentiful green spaces.

WHERE TO STAY A night at the Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park feels like traveling back in time to a more glamorous era. Its 253 rooms feel like elegant penthouses with marble soaking tubs and most have park views. The city’s top attractions, like Carnegie Hall and the boutiques of Fifth Avenue, are just a short walk away. From $779; ritzcarlton.com

W H E N T O GO The city sparkles any time of year. Summer is quiet but humid. Central Park shows off during spring and fall. Winter brings a festive feel with theatrical holiday windows and the giant tree in Rockefeller Center. R O M A NT I C M O M E N T Splurge on the $125, three-course tasting menu at star chef Daniel Boulud’s latest restaurant, Le Pavillon. Set within one of the city’s tallest skyscrapers, you can take in views of Grand Central Terminal and the glittering Chrysler Building while savoring dishes like buckwheatcrusted sea scallops and yuzu-cured Long Island ﬂuke. lepavillonnyc.com DO N’T M I S S A must see for musical fans: the revival of Tony Award–winning comedy The Music Man starring Hugh Jackman and Sutton Foster.

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FROM LEFT: GETTY IMAGES; ALEX TAI/NOUN PROJECT; MALIKOV/NOUN PROJECT; COURTESY OF THE RITZ-CARLTON, CENTRAL PARK ; LIGHTUPDESIGN/NOUN PROJECT; COURTESY OF THE RITZ-CARLTON, CENTRAL PARK; COURTESY OF AUBERGE RESORTS COLLECTION; JANELL LANGFORD; MFK STUDIO/NOUN PROJECT

WHE N TO G O Spring and fall typically have the most comfortable temperatures. Winter can see snow, but the holiday season has a magical feel with Christmas lights illuminating historic Santa Fe Plaza.

H AV E A N E A S T C OA S T A DV E N T U R E I N

ACADIA NATIONAL PARK, MAINE A patchwork of spruce-fir forests, crystalclear lakes and glacier-scrubbed peaks spread across more than 47,000 acres along Maine’s down east coast make this New England’s natural treasure.

W H E N T O GO New England summers are hard to beat, but the park puts on quite a show in fall when leaves turn brilliant shades of amber and red.

DO N ’T M I S S Just outside the park, Thurston’s Lobster Pound is the quintessential Maine lobstah shack overlooking Bass Harbor. thurstonforlobster.com

WHERE TO STAY Glamping outfit Under Canvas pops up its safari-style tents from early May to early October on 100 acres of waterfront just 35 minutes from the park entrance. Honeymooners should book the Stargazer, which has a window above the bed, plus an ensuite bathroom, wood-burning stove and private deck. Dinners celebrate the local bounty (yes, that means lobster) and complimentary s’mores kits can be prepared around communal firepits. From $409; undercanvas.com

EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS IN

BIG SKY, MONTANA The name says it all: Big Sky’s vast landscapes and towering mountains will humble you with their size and beauty. And Yellowstone National Park is under an hour’s drive away. WHE R E TO STA Y The region got its first five-star hotel last December when the 139-room Montage Big Sky opened. In winter, you can’t beat its slopeside access to the ski resort. A massive spa, extensive wine cellar and restaurant rooted in the flavors of northern Italy make it the top place to stay any time of year. From $1,395; montagehotels.com R OMANTIC MOMEN T Ride up the mountain in a vintage army truck in summer or snowcat in winter and enjoy a three-course meal and live music in a backcountry yurt. From $149 per person in summer and $189 in winter; bigskyyurt.com

D ON ’T M I S S When snow falls, Yellowstone transforms into a winter wonderland. Experience the park’s wildlife and famed sites, like Old Faithful and Firehole Canyon, from the comfort of a 1950s-style snowcoach. Eight-hour tour from $1,350; seeyellowstone.com

WHEN TO GO Summer is busy, but May can still be quiet, with lower prices. Winter is the season for skiers, but it’s also one of the rare times to experience Yellowstone National Park without the typical crowds.

FROM LEFT: BAILEY MADE; COURTESY OF VISIT MAINE; SHUTTERSTOCK; EAGLE EYE/NOUN PROJECT; GETTY IMAGES; COURTESY OF SHERATON KAUAI COCONUT BEACH RESORT

R O M A N T I C M O M E NT Watch the sky turn sherbet hues as you cruise past the Cranberry Islands and Bear Island Lighthouse aboard a gorgeous, locally built wooden lobster boat, the Elizabeth T. From $450 for a 2-hour private charter; sailacadia.com

TR AVEL EXPERIENCE TRANQUILITY IN

KAUAI, HAWAII The island’s natural wonders, from emerald valleys to golden beaches, are complemented by a rich culture and beautiful Hawaiian traditions. WHEN TO GO December through March tend to be the rainiest months. Summer is busy with families. WHERE TO ST AY Spread across 10 beachfront acres on the east side of the island, Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort has every imaginable amenity from a zero-edge pool with ocean views to a tiki bar that makes an excellent mai tai. The 314 rooms have playful, beachy design touches like waves painted across the walls and spacious private lanais. It’s worth the upgrade to an ocean view suite. From $250; marriott.com RO MANTIC MO M E N T For the best sunset views, book a table (at least two weeks in advance) at the Beach House restaurant, an award-winning spot on Kauai’s south shore. The Makawao Ave made with house-made cayenne ginger beer and macadamia nut butter fresh catch are must orders. the-beach-house.com

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DON’T MISS A hike along the Nounou West Trail up its namesake mountain, also known as Sleeping Giant, delivers stunning views of the eastern coastline.

WEDDING GOWNS 101 Searching for the one? Study up on everything you need to know before you hit the salon.

A GUIDE TO DRESS SILHOUETTES

Ball Gown

A-line

This universally flattering style hugs the torso and has a skirt that flares out in—you guessed it—an A shape. Consider it a halfway point between a sheath and a ball gown.

Mermaid

Va-va-voom. This sultry silhouette has a fitted bodice, waist and hips, and dramatically flares out at the knee. It’s a great option if you want to show off your curves.

Trumpet

Sheath

This slim silhouette A toned-down version skims over the body, of the mermaid, the falling straight to skirt of this gown flares the floor below the out just below the hips, hips. What a sheath creating a semi-full dress lacks in volume, shape (like the bell it makes up for in of a trumpet) without versatility—it works with nearly every fabric. any extra volume.

Empire

A dress for the Grecian goddess in us all, the empire style has a fitted bodice ending just below the bust, giving a high-waisted appearance that lengthens the body.

MUST-READ GOWN SHOPPING TIP S S H O P E A R L Y A designer wedding gown will take months to create and a series of alterations to fit your body perfectly. In other words, it’s not the kind of garment you can toss into an online shopping cart and have show up on your doorstep two days later. Book your first appointment 9 to 12 months before your wedding date. If you’re shopping closer to your wedding, you may be limited to samples or off-the-rack gowns. A L W A Y S B O O K A N A P P O I N T M E N T Scheduling an appointment is the only way to ensure you’ll get a full hour of undivided attention. If you’re the type who hates feeling rushed when shopping, make an appointment on a slow weekday morning or afternoon. L I M I T Y O U R E N T O U R A G E Bringing a big group to the salon is a gown shopping don’t. Enlist one or two of your closest friends or family members to help you start your search. This way you can find the gown that best suits your style and not feel pressured by too many opinions.

Shop wedding gowns by style at THE K N OT.CO M/D RE S S E S

H I D D E N C O S T S A D D U P Remember, your wedding gown budget doesn’t just include the dress. Your veil or headpiece, accessories, undergarments and alterations will also add to your bottom line. Factor in these costs before you give the salesperson your shopping budget. T R U S T I S K E Y Even if a gown doesn’t look amazing on the hanger, that doesn’t necessarily mean it won’t look amazing on you. Be open to what an experienced consultant thinks will work for your body (after all, they’ve done this before). Bottom line: The dress you end up loving might be different than what you originally pictured, and that’s okay. S A L O N S C A N S O M E T I M E S T A K E R E Q U E S T S Just because a bridal salon carries your favorite designer, doesn’t mean it’ll have the exact wedding dress you’ve been wanting to try on. But, if you phone in advance and ask about a specific style, your consultant may be able to request a loaner sample of that gown especially for you.

AMELIA NOYES

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Perfect for the bride looking to make a statement, there’s nothing subtle about a ball gown. This classic silhouette has a fitted bodice and a voluminous full skirt.

love by pnina tornai $$$$$ on theknot.com love by pnina tornai on the web kleinfeldbridal.com collection 2022 styles 14907

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PRICE KEY $ $600 or less $$ $601 to $1,500 $$$ $1,501 to 3,000 $$$$ $3,001 to $5000 $$$$$ $5001 and up

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love by pnina tornai $$$$, $$$$$ on theknot.com love by pnina tornai on the web kleinfeldbridal.com collection 2022 styles 14889, 14897

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