Project Wedding Blog

I have a love affair with poetry… the kind that is timeless, enduring, and speaks to the heart like nothing else.  In the early planning stages of this exclusive PW styled shoot, it occurred to me that there is nothing more romantic (and for me, more meaningful) than love poetry.  I wanted to share something utterly dream-filled with a contemporary approach on classic style.  I sought out the wildly talented Erich McVey and Stephanie Major of Petalos- who poured over every detail to help me bring the vision to life.  And thus, this exquisite spread of photos came forth.   Enjoy reveling in all of this romance, romance, romance… 

We chose The Historic Deepwood Estate for its classic ambiance, light-filled rooms, and breathtaking landscape.  A warm, rich palette of crimson, pink, amber, peach, and gold hues set an inviting tone with stunning contrast.  Above, our bride model Nicole poses in a soft peach Jim Hjelm gown.

The first vignette was set in the courtyard, amongst lush forest and arching topiaries.  Nicole was the epitome of fairytale romance in a soft sherbet Lazaro ballgown and loose, wavy locks styled by Christine Shields.  Kamyar, our groom model, looked incredibly dapper in black tie finery from Este’s Mens in Portland.

On the bouquet: ‘I went with a crescent design which allows for an organic shape.  It is composed of an assortment of roses, stock, pepper berries, and chocolate cosmos.  To bring a modern textural quality I also included mink protea and cockcomb.’ ~Petalos

Braided velvet ribbon by Midori was used on the handle.

After falling completely in love with Neither Snow’s calligraphies, I asked Mara to infuse our collaboration with the written word…. and she did so, so beautifully.  Her one-of-a-kind calligraphy danced across the fabric ceremony backdrop, the vows, and more… 

On a day when the wind is perfect,

the sail just needs to open

and the love starts.

Today is such

a day.

~Rumi, translated by Daniel Ladinsky in Love Poems from God

There is more loveliness to bask in; be sure to head over to the photo gallery to see the full photoshoot. Tomorrow I’ll be sharing all of the delicious details from the reception right here…. xoxo

Photos by Erich McVey Photography

Design and Florals by Petalos

Calligraphy and Ceremony Backdrop by Neither Snow

Hair and Make-Up Styling by Christine Shields

Venue: Historic Deepwood Estate

Lace Mermaid Gown by Jim Hjelm; Sherbet Ball Gown by Lazaro

Groom’s Attire by Este’s Mens

Tiara by Twigs and Honey via The English Department

Ribbon by Midori

Models: Nicole and Kamyar from Option Models & Media

Gold Chiavari Chair Rental by West Coast Event Production

Marble Table Rental by Peter Corvallis

Creative Direction by Katelin Gallagher

Read the rest of this entry »

Tags: calligraphy, Ceremony, ceremony backdrop, crimson, Elegant, Jim Hjelm, Lazaro, love poetry, photoshoot, romantic, rumi, sophisticated.

After each runway season, our Fashion Friday posts turn towards trends. This past October, there was a serious sheer statement on the New York bridal runway.  Let’s be honest, this high fashion look isn’t for every bride, but it sure is stunning, sexy and utterly glamorous. The dynamic contrast of the beadwork, embroidery and crystal embellishments against translucent fabrics make these gowns altogether noteworthy…pure art in my book.

no. 1 Gown by Eve of Milady

no. 2, 3 & 4 Dresses by Reem Acra

no. 5 & 6 Dresses by Hayley Paige

no. 7 Gown by Badgley Mischka

Beauties, aren’t they?

 I have something so so special for you on Monday, a creative project that I’m over the moon about.  It’s a photoshoot that is romantic down to the core, a heartfelt expression of all that is sacred and beautiful about weddings and I can’t wait to share. Until then, I hope your weekend is sheer perfection..xo

Tags: Badgley Mischka, eve of milady, Fall 2013, Hayley Paige, Reem Acra, Sheer.

This gorgeous autumn engagement session has me reveling in the season.   The sweet connection between Brian and Elise, the amazing colors of the leaves, and the rich photos by DuRall Photography make it one to remember. The couple and their photographer headed to the University of Missouri campus and Capen Park in Columbia, Missouri to steal dozens of gorgeous shots.  Enjoy these luscious, scenic photos, and read their love story down below ♥

From the Bride: Brian and I initially met through his sister, but stayed in contact via Facebook. In 2009 Brian messaged me about coming to visit his farm about 45 minutes from Columbia. It wasn’t too much of a date, but more so just hanging out as friends, or so I thought. When I pulled up to his place, he was waiting on the porch for me and he was much taller and more handsome than I remembered. Suddenly, I became very nervous. We enjoyed the day by petting the white tail deer that he raises on his ranch. We fished together, too. We talked and enjoyed a sunset and promised to stay in touch. After that, we continued to talk and went out on several dates.

A  few months later, on my birthday, we started officially dating. He took me to a Cardinals game in Saint Louis where we had a blast together. That was the night when we knew we were in love with one another (there was a mutually agreed upon moment). From then on we were pretty much inseparable.

Since we started dating, I have taken an interest in fitness (Brian lifts weights every day). I became curious and started going to the gym with him. Now I too have been bitten by the fitness bug and we work out together every chance our schedules allow. We love inspiring others to become more active and sharing that passion. We also enjoy time on our ranch, and every summer we bottle raise fawns together.

Brian proposed in June. Since then, we have been busy planning our big day. Luckily my maid of honor has a background in event planning. She has been an immense help and has ensured a smooth planning process.

Elise and Brian have an April wedding planned.

Photos by DuRall Photography

Tags: autumn, engagement, fall, Missouri.

By: Mary Swenson

Bulbs are the perfect favor for a fall wedding: they just need to be planted sometime around the first frost, and come spring, beautiful flowers will bloom- no green thumb necessary! In no time at all, you can put together a batch of beautifully packaged bulb favors that your guests will enjoy now, and in a few months to come!

Step One. Purchase a variety of bulbs from a garden center, and stock up on lidded kraft boxes and Spanish moss from the craft store.

Step Two. Cover the bottom of the boxes with Spanish moss, and pack the bulbs on top.

Step Three. Cover with a lid, and your bulb boxes are ready for a pretty ribbon (we used velvet ribbon for a fancy touch) and a name tag.

Step Four. Use smaller boxes as guest favors, and fill a larger box as a maid of honor gift.

Photographs and Project Styling by Mary Swenson

Tags: bulbs, fall, Favors.