Weddings Magazine

Weekend Wedding Show Catch-Up

2012-01-31T14:52:00.000-08:00

We spent the weekend in wedding-show bliss, attending Forever Bridal's Wedding Show on Friday and Saturday, followed by Carolina Inn's 2012 Bridal Showcase.

Brides-to-be, along with their respective loved ones, flooded the floors of the convention center. Between Friday and Saturday, we handed out over 1,000 copies of our brand-new 2012 issue!

Hundreds of brides also registered for our six -yes, we said six!- giveaways, including gift certificates to Second Empire and 18 Seaboard, four cases of reception wine from OneHope Wines, and a few weekend getaways! We can't wait to announce the winners!

Just one of our lovely brides-to-be registering for our giveaway prizes!

Katey, Robyn and Maureen show off the newest issue of Weddings Magazine. A lot of hard work and talent went into it, and we were excited to hand it out!

The Raleigh Convention Center was packed with newly-engaged couples and their families on Saturday - we couldn't believe the size of the crowd!

It was a champagne and rose-filled afternoon as the lovely Carolina Inn hosted us on Sunday.

We even ran out of magazines at the closing of the day on Sunday -- we'd say it was a success!

Thanks to all of those who came out to see us and our friends in the business this weekend! Make sure you keep up with our Facebook and Twitter accounts to find out where we'll be next. This is always one of our favorite parts of the year because we get to see first-hand all of our hard work reaching the hands of our readers.

Enjoy your latest copies of Weddings Magazine!

All the best,

The Weddings Magazine team

Out with the old and in with the new: What's OK this year

2012-01-18T10:33:00.000-08:00

Wedding gowns in new shades
Vera Wang shocked fashion and wedding connoisseurs alike with the edgy color choices she included in her Spring 2012 wedding gown collection. Wang combined luscious nudes, mystic grays and even soft pastels with sultry silhouettes. Countless other designers are following in her footsteps by adding pops of color in their bridal collections. And the result of the risk-taking choices in hues? Pure design genius.

Vera Wang

Watters

Romona Keveza

Not-so-traditional wedding "cakes"

Though we will always love a good over-the-top cake, we also love that brides have the option to go for desserts that are less flashy and more simplistic, yet just as delicious. From cupcake trees to doughnut towers and everything in between, your guests will be so busy devouring the tasty treats that they won't even realize you don't have a traditional cake. And, as an added plus, you'll certainly save a few bucks making the switch!

Bridesmaids with their own styles

No need to summon your girls to one style, color, and pattern of dress. More and more brides are allowing their bridesmaids to each pick out her own dress. This not only solves several 27 Dresses-esque style woes for your ladies, but also allows their personalities to shine, while also adding interest and style to your wedding photos. Don't worry- the attention will still be on you! But now, you can worry less about your girls bickering over dresses, and more about other aspects of your wedding.

Statement-making accessories

Thanks to jewelry-making geniuses like Margaret Rowe and Juliet & Company, brides can shine with show-stopping, glittery accessories. The craftsmanship of new jewels and veils in striking shapes, patterns and textures is a must for brides looking to add that extra "oomph" to their look on their wedding days.

Bouquets that won't wilt

It doesn't matter what they're made of -- these do-it-yourself bouquets are to die for! One of the best parts about these arrangements is that you can keep them at home, on display, forever. Or, you can pass your bouquet on to future generations, allowing the piece to create a tradition of its own.

Cheers,

the Weddings Magazine team

Photo Credit: Vera Wang Bridal, Style Me Pretty, Ruffled Blog, Bradley James Blog, Capitol Romance Blog, Love & Lavender, Grey Likes Weddings

5 Color Palletes we Love for 2012

2012-01-07T08:28:00.000-08:00

New year, new trends, new styles!

To celebrate the new year, we've decided to pull some of our favorite new color combinations- blends we think you'll swoon over just as much as we do. Some are bright and shocking, some muted and serene, but all are combos we adore and expect to see sprinkled throughout local weddings this year.

1. Bold, preppy, and fun, these colors will undoubtedly catch the eyes of your guests, and enlighten their fun-loving sides. The cool, jewel-toned colors work well together, and the collection looks impressive finished off with neutral white
or silver. Your decor will have your guests going home dreaming of blueberry pie!

2. This year, it's okay to use several bold, bright colors! We love how each color in this palette not only makes a statement on its own, but also all blend perfectly as a collection. You can even add extra sparkle through brooches, hardware and glitter to make an ever bigger statement. Your guests will be sure to notice the dramatic hues! And, like your chosen colors, hopefully they will also share their festive and extroverted sides at the reception.

3. With a hint of southern charm, these pearly hues give off a classic, vintage vibe. If you favor more neutral shades over bright, bold ones for your wedding decor, this mix could be the one for you. And, if you choose this type of palette, your photographer may want to consider giving your photographs a worn look; it fits perfectly with the theme!

4. Inspired entirely by flora, this combo is girly and chic, and pairs well with funky fonts, modern patterns, and a couple with bright personalities. The whimsical palette is anything but stuffy, turning heads with its bold pinks and tangerine.

5. Rustic and vintage with a pop of color, this mix is the perfect choice for any couple. The variety of neutrals makes it easy for couples and planners to incorporate these colors throughout the entire wedding, allowing the mustard yellow to pop where it's used, especially as an accent and accessory color. The pallette can easily be taken from indoors to outdoors - greenery only makes the combo look better!

Wishing you and your loved ones a healthy, happy and colorful new year,

Katey

Photo Credit: Millie Holloman Blog, Style Me Pretty, Style Unveiled, Wedding Gawker, Design Seeds, Grey Likes Weddings

Lace Details

2011-12-26T11:55:00.000-08:00

Delicate lace details are taking the wedding world by storm, and this isn't just your grandma's doilies we're talking about. Designers, decorators and DIY-ers are finding ways to incorporate a variety of laces into several aspects of the wedding, bringing the timeless fabric together with modern trends to create the perfect balance between old and new.

Lace has almost always been one of the most popular details in wedding gowns, but our favorite designers have put a twist on its usage. Dresses with short lace cap sleeves and lace bodices are trending, as well as gowns that are completely covered in lace, skimming the body at the perfect places.

Birnbaum & Bullock

Lazaro

Paloma Blanca

Romona Keveza

Tara Keely

Stylish lace-wrapped bouquets have become one of the top lace trends for 2012. I love how just a small strip wrapped around the base of these arrangements transforms the bouquets, adding class and elegance to traditional styles.

The use of lace doesn't have to be literal; it can be inspirational. I adore the way these cakes incorporate lace-inspired patterns, bringing lace to life through talented decorating styles. They're almost too beautiful to eat!

A simple way to incorporate the trend into your wedding is to add lace to your tabletop decor. Whether it's used as a table runner, woven carefully into centerpieces, or simply used as a throw under other decor, pops of lace bring a delicate, vintage feel to any setup.

If you want to incorporate lace in a more modern way, use a dyed lace or place lace over fun colors and patterns for a unique look. Using this more updated style on invitations is a great place to start. I love how these take classic lace and turn it into fun additions on invites that impress!

Another creative way to update the use of lace is to add it in places you wouldn't expect, such as around a tree trunk or draped over chairs.

I hope you enjoy finding inventive ways to include lace details into your own wedding! Just remember, you only need a small amount of lace to update otherwise traditional wedding elements.

Happy Holidays,

Katey

Dresses from the above-listed designers are available locally at Traditions by Anna and Victorian Rose Bridals.

Photo Credit: Wedding Gawker, Ruffled Blog, Style Me Pretty

What's New with Weddings Magazine

2011-12-13T15:34:00.000-08:00

It's the holiday season and you know what that means -- a slew of treats for you, our readers! We're extremely proud to present our new 2012 issue, filled from front to back cover with the latest and greatest wedding fashion, florals, cakes, event ideas, venues, advice, and much more!

But that's not all we have for you...

Our 2012 issue is now readily available online, making it easy for you to pull up while you're on the go or to share with friends. To view it, just click the icon on the right side of our home page.

We now have a Twitter! Follow @weddingsmag for constant updates about what we're doing, where we're headed next, and more from our friends in the industry.

Heart Stone Films combined hard work and impeccable talent to create several behind-the-scenes videos from our photo shoots, including the fashion shoot at the Raleigh Marriott City Center! Check them out under our "video" tab.

Happy Holidays from the Weddings Magazine team!

Gift Guide: Bridesmaids and Groomsmen

2011-12-03T11:34:00.000-08:00

We've gotten into the habit of buying gifts for our friends and family members over the holiday seasons, but the rules may change a bit when looking for bridal party gifts. Bridesmaids and groomsmen give up a great amount of time and effort to assist in carrying out several duties on and before the big day, so it's important to show appreciation for each one of them! The most important thing to remember when buying these gifts is to make them personal.

Including customized details on the gifts or picking gifts that reflect each member of the bridal party's unique personality through style, taste, or color will help show appreciation and gratitude!

Here are a few ideas for presents for your bridesmaids and groomsmen. (Some you may even want to order for yourself!)

For the Bridesmaids:

Kate Spade earrings, $48-$58

Pottery Barn Monogrammed Terry Cosmetic Case, $19

L.L. Bean Custom Boat & Tote Bag, $19.95-$49.95
(Fill these with "Survival Kits," including

Restoration Hardware Cashmere Souffle Scarf, $89

Anthropologie Homegrown Monogram Mug, $8

Etsy Standard Custom/Personalized Wedding Hanger, starting at $20

Land's End Long Sleeve Pinpoint Blouse, $39.50, $6 for added monogram (perfect to wear getting hair and makeup ready!)

The Monogram Chick's Personalized Waffle Weave Spa Wrap, $33

Anthropologie Valise Journal, $24

Jenna Lou Designs' Design Your Own 5 in. Clutch, $20-$26 each

Mini Moet Champage Bottles, about $25 for 2

For the Groomsmen:

The Hair of the Dog's Personalized Mustache Flasks, sets starting at $57

Pottery Barn Leather Toiletry Case, $49

J.Crew Leather Magic Wallet, $24.50

Etsy's Bottle Gift Bag Upcycled Shirt with Cuff Links, $25 for 2 (whisky not included; add the groomsmens' favorite booze yourself!)

Polo Ralph Lauren Argyle Sock with Cashmere, $24

Happy holidays and happy shopping!

Katey

Engaging Photos

2011-11-23T18:09:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving, Weddings Mag readers!

We all have so much to be thankful for, and it's a wonderful time to sit, relax, and think about what exactly these things are. Some of the best things to be thankful for are those who surround us. I hope you all can take this holiday time and spend it with those you love most!

To celebrate the holiday, I've gathered a few of my favorite engagement photos. Nothing says 'I love you' like these wonderful shots! In addition, they were all taken by talented North Carolina-based photographers.

Sometimes candid poses make the best pictures! These photographers did an excellent job capturing the organic emotions and interactions of these soon-to-be-married couples. Engagement photos are the perfect opportunity to let you and your partners' relationship shine. I adore the playful, silly shots; it shows the comfort and love that exists in these relationships!

What are you thankful for today? Post a comment below to share with us!

Keep your bellies full and your loved ones nearby!

Best,
Katey

Photo Credit: Millie Holloman Photography, Jake Ford Photography, Luster Studios, Walters & Walters Photography, Shane Snider Photography

Venue Spotlight: Barns

2011-11-15T19:06:00.000-08:00

The chic southern vibe of barns exude the perfect shabby-chic atmosphere for both wedding ceremonies and receptions. The ability for barn venues to serve both as breathtaking outdoor and indoor spaces has contributed to their rise in popularity. If you choose to have a barn to host your big day, it's safe to say your pictures will certainly capture the unforgettable, enchanting night, as did these!

The availability of overhead space and structural wooden boards make barn venues easy to decorate, allowing for the hanging of a variety of decorations. These couples combined whimsical paper decorations with delicate strings of lighting, which embodies the down-home feel that barns exude. And how could you not love their fun additions, like the wooden barrels and blanket wedding favors?

North Carolina is home to several fabulous barn venues that consistently serve as event spaces. Here's a few you may want to look into:

Lake Eden Events
Black Mountain, NC

Magnolia Manor Plantation Bread & Breakfast
Warrenton, NC

WinMock at Kinderton
Bermuda Run, NC
(short drive from Winston-Salem)

Barn at Valhalla
Chapel Hill, NC

The Farm
Asheville, NC

Shady Wagon Farm
New Hill, NC
(minutes from Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and Sanford)

Hope you enjoyed these classically southern barn venues!

Best,
Katey

Photo Credit: ruffledblog.com, hindsightbride.com, magnoliamanorbnb.com, Steve Jackle Photography, winmock.com, Brian Mullins Photography, thefarmevents.com, Heather Swanner Photography, imgfave.com

Not Your Average Bar

2011-11-06T13:32:00.000-08:00

Every girl likes a good bar! But what about when that bar includes chocolate, marshmallows and warm drinks? Now that's a bar we can LOVE!

Here are a few fun "bars" to add to your wedding, plus a few tips on what to include and how to turn your favorite new bars into unforgettable guest favors!

Type: The Coffee Bar

Best Fit For: Any season

Things to include:

Espresso machine
Coffee of various flavors (Hazelnut, Vanilla, Caramel)
Milk or Cream (Skim, 1%, 2%, and half-and-half)
Sugar
Whipped cream
Drizzled toppings (Caramel, Chocolate)

How to turn it into wedding favors: Include a coffee station that simply includes ground coffee (both regular and decaf) and powdered flavors. Set out your own custom-made coffee bags and allow guests to fill these bags with whatever flavor(s) they want to whip together, and they'll be sure to remember the wedding every morning that they enjoy their custom coffee creation!

Type: The Hot Chocolate Bar

Best Fit For: Winter weddings

Things to include:

Cocoa powder
Hot water and milk, so guests can choose their base
Marshmallows
Whipped cream
Chopped peppermint pieces
Sprinkles
Assortment of chopped candy bars
Biscotti and/or Pirouette cookie sticks (they can double as stirs!)
OR, set out pre-made hot chocolate stirs, such as the ones above, that consist of marshmallows dipped in chocolate and sprinkled with peppermint pieces

How to turn it into wedding favors: Divvy servings of cocoa into custom-made to-go baggies. To take it one step further, add a few marshmallow hot chocolate stirs, such as the ones pictures above. Just bag the cocoa and stirs in clear bags tied with ribbon to match the theme colors of your wedding!

Type: The Trail Mix Bar

Best Fit For: Fall Weddings

Things to include:

Assortment of nuts (peanuts, cashews, almonds, candied nuts, etc.)
Chocolate chips (Milk chocolate, white chocolate, dark chocolate and butterscotch chips)
M&M's
Dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, blueberries, etc.)
Marshmallows
Granola
Pretzels
Cereal

How to turn it into wedding favors: This one's easy! Just make sure guests have some sort of bag or box to take it home in. Get creative and match the type of to-go container to your specific theme!

Type: The Candy Bar

Best Fit For: Any season

Things to include:

Candy inspired by your wedding colors (M&Ms, rock candy, gumballs)
Chocolate covered pretzels, peanuts, or espresso beans
Candy canes, peppermints (for winter weddings)
Candy corn (for fall weddings)
Skittles
Sour candies
Gummies (for summer weddings)
Twizzlers
Sweet mints

How to turn it into wedding favors: Get creative with your to-go containers! For example, you could include Chinese takeout boxes or paper bags with you and your groom's initials.

Type: The S'mores Bar

Best fit for: Fall or Winter Weddings

What to include:

Graham crackers (Get a few different varieties to spice up the selection!)
A variety of chocolate bars (dark and milk chocolate, cookies and cream, mint chocolate)
Reeses
Marshmallows
Bamboo wood skewers
Burners for an inside bar, or set up a "campfire" outside for a more classic fire source!

How to turn it into wedding favors: Bag a few graham crackers, marshmallows, a chocolate bar and one or two skewers to allow your guests to make a few s'mores at home!

Type: The Cereal Bar
Best fit for: Any season
Things to include:

Variety of cereals
Bowls and spoons
Variety of milk

How to turn it into wedding favors: Make your own custom cereal boxes so guests can mix and match their favorite flavors and take them home!

Hope these bars have inspired you to turn your favorite comfort foods and drinks into inventive bars that will guests will not only love, but be able to take home with them!

Cheers,
Katey

Photo Credit: beautyandbedlam.com; blogspot.com: norococo, familyofthevine, weddingstoriesri; thefarmersdaughter.stumblr.com; weddingwindow.com,F.Y. Weddings, jubella.com

Footloose Fever

2011-11-03T07:22:00.000-07:00

While it may be a trend in recent movie headlines, getting footloose on the dance floor will always be not only a wedding day craze, but a wedding day must! After the sweet sentiments of watching our loved ones tie the knot and the excitement of reconnecting with old friends there is just one thing left to do... hit the dance floor!

The wedding reception is a time for all guests to come together and celebrate the bride and groom. For some this includes dancing, others singing, and others downright crowd surfing, acrobatics, costume wearing, and perhaps a drink.... or two :).

Here are some real NC weddings that capture the essence of a fabulous wedding reception and in the words of a true North Carolinian girl: here are some wedding receptions that are simply a darn good time!

What's a good reception without a couple of costumes?....

Kids aren't missing out on the good times neither!

Finally, a recent reception trend has been to replace the traditional guest book with a good-humored photo booth. These booths host an assortment of props ranging from the charming to the ridiculous. Regardless of the props used, at the close of the evening the newlyweds end their special day with a pile of warm (and typically hilarious) memories.

I hope these carefree photos have brought some cheer to your day and have given you that extra oomph to get you through the end of the work-week. Here's to a great fall weekend full of laughter and fun!

All the best,

Megan

Photos courtesy of: Elizabeth Clayton, Millie Holloman, Nancy Ray, & Once Wed

If the shoe fits...

2011-10-24T21:11:00.000-07:00

If diamonds are a girl's best friend, shoes must trail behind at a close second.

From capturing the undeniably savvy red soles of Christian Louboutins to snapping the charm of a worn-in pair of cowboy boots, the "shoe shot" is rivaling popularity of the classic ring shot in the latest wedding photos. Photographers have found endless ways to put creative and quirky spins on photos they take of not only the bride's shoes, but also of the groom and bridal party's footwear.

Not only do these "shoe shots" capture a memorable detail of the wedding, but the type of shoes the bride, groom and bridal party select for the big day also reflects their personalities. Each shoe makes a statement, and each has its own story, so these photographs are here to document it.

Whether you're the glam bride donning rhinestone-encrusted Kate Spades, the romantic bride channeling your "something blue" with the Sex and the City movie's famous Manolo Blahniks, or the laid-back bride, happy in your most comfortable pair of Toms or boots, your shoes deserve their moment in the spotlight.

Not only can you suggest your photographer snap a few shots of your shoes by themselves, but also make sure he or she takes photos of you and your groom in your trendy footwear. If your dress or his pants are too long, pull them up to the ankle for the shot. It may seem silly, but allow your photographer to capture each of your unique shoes, along with any funky socks, tattoos, or other individual details. These snapshots will allow you and your husband-to-be's personalities to shine through while also focusing on you and your hubby's body language, implying a sweet, underlying tone.

Of course, if you're as shoe obsessed as I am, you won't want to forget to include the bridal party's footwear. More bodies (and more shoes) provide a greater variety of options concerning foot placement and arrangement in photos, so get creative! And, let's not forget, this is a great reason for going shoe shopping!

All the best,

Katey

Photo credit: Style Me Pretty and Ruffled Blog

Fall in Love

2011-10-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

Summer has finally come to an end and it's time for us to embrace the changing colors of the leaves, the cooler weather and, of course, pumpkin spice lattes. There's something comforting about the fall season and the decor that comes along with it, making it easy for couples to capture the natural charm of the season in their autumn weddings.

The use of seasonal colors and the incorporation of natural elements have become a staple in weddings held in the fall. So, trade out those traditional rose petals for fallen leaves and put on your best pair of cowboy boots because 'tis the season to be fall-y!

These cake and cupcake displays embrace the nature of the season by adding shades of red, orange, yellow and gold to simple white bases, allowing the warm colors to pop.

These warm shades can also used in statement-making floral arrangements. The abundance of flowers in these shades gives endless opportunities for bouquets, boutonnieres and centerpieces. Tying in other natural elements such as berries, twine, bark and twigs will give your arrangements charm and originality and fit perfectly into the theme.

With a bit of creativity, you can incorporate elements of fall into all aspects of your autumn wedding. Simple DIY projects, such as making burlap pumpkins and candy apple favors, will allow you to tie in seasonal aspects that your guests are sure to enjoy! It's easy to get inspired; just step outdoors!

All the best,

Katey

Photo credit: StyleMePretty.com, Ruffled Blog, Frugaliciousme.com, Zsa Zsa Bellagio Blog

Rustic Revival

2011-10-03T16:46:00.000-07:00

While extravagant centerpieces will be found in all of their grandeur in weddings year-round, one of the latest wedding trends is giving these stately pieces a run for their money- the rustic centerpiece.

A growing number of brides are incorporating greenery, bark, jars, tins, weathered books, and many more organic and vintage elements into their centerpieces to give their wedding a soft, intimate feel. Stripping the centerpiece to these bare, and often rugged, elements allows couples to get creative with their big day and save a penny or two while their at it!

Take a look at these real weddings in which the bride and groom decided to use rustic-inspired centerpieces to give their day a touch of comfort...

What can get more rustic than nature?!

While nature exudes the essence of all things rustic, perhaps the most popular way to create a rustic wedding would be through the use of glass jars.

Another great way to give your day that rustic edge would be to incorporate aged books into your centerpiece.

You can even pair these books with other dated pieces like this bride who used a variety of vintage cameras....

...I just love how the coupling of books and cameras gives each table such a fun, unique look!

Finally, if you're going to host a rustic affair, you have to use at least one of these...

... a tin can!

Love all of these rustic looks? Try using a different element on each table like this NC bride:

If you like the atmosphere a rustic centerpiece can provide but are looking for something a little less rugged you can create the same cozy charm by using period pieces with a little less wear and a little more elegance.

For inspiration take a look at this blue and yellow wedding:

... this bride created the same warm feel of a rustic centerpiece but added a little more polish by using a beautifully detailed, dated tea cup.

This wedding also chose to use more refined vintage glassware to echo the relaxed feel of a rustic centerpiece, yet while creating a more chic look...

A great way strike a balance between maintaining a rustic ambiance and poise would be to adorn mason jars with clean string details and to pair these jars with more graceful vintage accents such as the candelabra, picture frames, and lanterns used by these brides...

I absolutely love the simplicity and creativity a rustic centerpiece brings to a wedding. There is something so endearing about a couple of old jars, carved bark, and worn books; these accents create something that is just so wonderfully familiar and heart warming to all ages :) .

All the best,

Megan

Photos courtesy of: Green Wedding Shoes, Millie Holloman, Once Wed, & Style Me Pretty

Spell it Out

2011-09-22T15:45:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon, ya'll!

We've all heard the phrase "a picture speaks a thousand words," but these pictures speak even more. I've certainly noticed that couples are incorporating printed messages into their wedding photos now more than ever before, and I have to admit, I love it! Not only are they fun and definitely a change from your mother's wedding pictures, but they are also very practical.

For example, you can create your own personalized thank-you's:

Or say "just married" in a different way than on the back of your getaway car:

Some couples are using this trend simply to express their love for each other and their excitement for their big day:

And, my personal favorite, these "here comes the bride" signs add sweet, original touches to the traditional ring bearer and flower girl trips down the aisle:

If you choose to incorporate signs in a few of your wedding photos, it's a great chance for you to get creative! Whether you choose to use chalkboard, poster board, cut-out letters, wood, or any other materials, chances are that you will not need to spend much money, which is always a plus!

Happy sign-making!

All the best,

Katey

Photos courtesy of Ruffled Blog, Style Me Pretty and Intimate Weddings Blog

All About the Bling

2011-09-21T14:51:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but it seems to me that so many of my friends have been getting engaged recently.

Maybe it is the recent cool breezes, or the sight of changing leaves and warm pumpkins. Or perhaps it is simply spurred on by the sweet scent trailing from the reinstatement of Starbucks' highly anticipated Pumpkin Spice Latte. Either way, love is in the air!

When a couple gets engaged the first thought on many ladies' minds is: THE RING!

I can say from experience, when I got engaged many girls (and even some guys) grabbed my hand to study my ring before a "congratulations" could even be uttered and when a couple is getting serious, "he better put a ring on it" is inevitably worked into the conversation.

Wilmington based photography company, Millie Holloman, doesn't let a wedding go by without incredible shots of the bling. For our readers who are trying to decide just what cut, carat, or style would best fit, here are some incredible photos to prod your search!

I absolutely love how the photographers at Millie Holloman pick such unique objects, food, and decor to highlight a bride and groom's symbol of marriage- gorgeous rings! See any rings that spark your interest or simply make you drop your jaw in awe? I know I sure did!

All the best,

Megan

Wish Upon a Wedding - North Carolina

2011-09-15T08:41:00.000-07:00

WISH UPON A WEDDING NORTH CAROLINA TO CELEBRATE OFFICIAL LAUNCH

NORTH CAROLINA – Health issues shouldn’t get in the way of someone’s dream to marry his or her best friend. That’s why Wish Upon A Wedding is expanding to the Tar Heel State and launching its first chapter in North Carolina. On September 27th at 6:00pm, all are welcome to attend the launch party at Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery in Chapel Hill. Professionals within the local wedding and event industry and the medical and health care community are invited to learn how this organization will positively affect lives across the region.

This is a free event, however, the new chapter welcomes any donations. All contributions will go directly towards helping the chapter grant wishes to deserving couples. “There are amazing wedding professionals in the North Carolina area that are eager to touch lives through this organization,” says Chapter President, Veronica Foster. “I am excited about how they have embraced it and are ready to serve!”

Couples in North Carolina interested in applying for a wish should fill out an application at http://wishuponawedding.org/about-our-wish/apply-for-a-wish/. There are various types of Wedding Wishes that couples may apply for, depending upon the urgency of the situation. Weddings range in size from 10-50 guests. Applicants for a Wedding Wish must be 18 years of age or older, US Citizens and have at least one individual in the relationship who has been diagnosed with less than three years to live or be facing a life-altering circumstance.

Event Details
Date: Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Time: 6:00pm-9:00pm
Location: Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery, 100 East Franklin St., 3rd Floor
RSVP required: http://wishuponaweddinglaunchnorthcarolina.eventbrite.com/

The Board of Directors for Wish Upon a Wedding-North Carolina is comprised of established professionals in Charlotte, Greensboro, Raleigh and Winston-Salem that have been tasked to work with and for the North Carolina community.

About Wish Upon a Wedding

Wish Upon a Wedding is dedicated to granting weddings and/or civil union ceremonies at destinations across North America to couples who are facing terminal illness. The foundation was created to celebrate the courage, determination and spirit of these couples by granting their dream wedding wishes. The hope is that chosen recipients can inspire other couples facing similar situations to find hope and strength. Wish Upon a Wedding is organized exclusively for charitable purposes, including for such purposes, the making of distributions to organizations that qualify as exempt organizations under Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or corresponding section of any future federal tax code. For more information please visit, http://www.wishuponawedding.org/.

Crazy About Cakes!

2011-09-09T08:44:00.000-07:00

What is the only other element of a wedding that people line up for other than to congratulate the bride and groom?... THE CAKE!

While a bride's wedding dress is still the most anticipated aspect of a wedding, the wedding cake has also become a crowd favorite.

Cake decoration has truly become an art in recent years. The wedding cake no longer serves the purpose of simply a tasty treat but moreover, the cake has almost become a decorative statue that guests circle with admiration, awe, and camera in hand.

Here are some incredible wedding cakes couples have used to highlight their wedding decor and capture their personal styles.

First... flowers! I love the use of flowers on a wedding cake!

... real, sugar, and paper flowers create a beautiful pop of color against a cake's sugary, smooth icing! Yum!

A recent wedding cake trend has been texture, particularly ruffles. Using texture on a cake is a great way to spice up your cake, transforming a simple cake into a fun and overall eye-catching dessert!

Another emerging wedding day favorite are tall cakes adorn with a beautiful lace overlay and a southern classic- the monogram!

Looking for something more glamorous? These cakes are red carpet ready!

Here are some great seasonal cakes for our brides and readers considering a fall or winter wedding...

Looking for something a little more out of the box? More newlyweds are choosing options other than a traditional cake such as choosing to compliment a smaller cake with a dessert bar or cupcakes.

Some brides are ditching cake all together and featuring a pie bar, cookies and milk, donuts, and even a biscuit bar!

Finally, a couple of my favorite picks...

... I think a wedding is the perfect opportunity, and maybe one of the only opportunities, to have an all white cake that is perfectly angelic.

Beyond stunning, some of these photos are downright mouth watering! I hope you all have a fantastic weekend full of friendship, laughter, and perhaps some baking? :)

All the best,

Megan

Photos courtesy of: Millie Holloman, Once Wed, & Style Me Pretty

Puppy Love

2011-09-05T12:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Labor Day!

I hope most of you are able to enjoy a work-free (and stress-free) day today! To celebrate, I thought I'd share with you something that always puts a smile on my face- dogs! Anyone who knows me knows I am a die-hard dog lover, hence why I chose to put together this adorable group of photos that show different ways couples included their precious pooches in their wedding day photos.

Dogs are part of the family, and I love that these couples wanted to include them in their wedding day photos! If you are thinking of including your pup on your big day, I hope these photos give you inspiration of how to do so! Now the only question is: tophat, tux or au natural?

Thank you for visiting our blog today!

Cheers,
Katey

Photos courtsey of Ruffled Blog, Project Wedding Blog and StyleMePretty.com.

Time to 'Getaway'!

2011-09-01T18:41:00.000-07:00

Since it's nearing the end of the week and we're approaching a holiday weekend, many of you will be hittin' the road and gettin' out of town.

With that said, I thought it would only be appropriate to feature some wonderful getaway vehicles that newlyweds have used to peel out and start their happily ever afters :).

To start, a posh limousine is always a wedding day favorite and a sure fire way to make your guests 'ohh' & 'ahh'...

To our trend-savvy followers, there are an assortment of classy, vintage cars that seem to be all the rage and quite successful at giving your day an endearing, nostalgic touch...

Want something a little more out of the box? Check out this vintage fire truck, fun golf cart, creative bycicle carriage, and dreamy horse and buggy...

... Or you could follow in step with these newlyweds and try something with two wheels!

Finally, a personal favorite, a seaside getaway! Bon Voyage!

Thanks for following! I hope theses photos have encouraged you to pack your bags and have your own special getaway! Enjoy your long weekend and travel mercies to all :)

All the best,

Megan

Credits: Green Wedding Shoes, Millie Holloman, & Once Wed

Cozy Backyard Weddings

2011-08-26T17:21:00.000-07:00

So I must admit, I love the idea of a grandiose, extravagant princess wedding a la Princess Kate just as much as the next girl. However, stumbling upon these backyard wedding photos certainly made me rethink the idea of what a wedding venue truly signifies. These couples found a way to turn their backyard venues into intimate, cozy gatherings. The simplistic beauty of these setups keeps guests from getting distracted with overabundant decorations and focus on what's most important- the bride and groom.

Nothing says southern comfort like homemade blueberry pie!


Love how the small details, such as the chalkboard signs and jeans-and-converse clad groomsmen, add the perfect at-home touch to this wedding.

This couple's wedding incorporates the rustic nature of their backyard to give their wedding day photos a woodsy feel- adorable!

I hope these photos give you some inspiration for where to host your special day! Have a wonderful weekend and stay safe over here on the East Coast!

Best,

Katey

Photos courtesy of StyleMePretty and Ruffled blog

Wedding Trends Final Look: 2012 Spring Fashions

2011-08-26T06:40:00.000-07:00

It is finally the end of the work week which means two things: this is our final wedding trend of the week and more importantly- the fashion shoot is only a few short days away!

To close this week's wedding trends I will be showcasing a gorgeous lineup of wedding dress trends that will be coming to you in the 2012 spring collections!

The Trends: The Illusion Neckline

Gown by Vera Wang

Gown by Carolina Herrera

Gown by Monique Lhuillier

Gown by Lela Rose

Gown by Ivy & Aster

Gown by Jenny Lee

Two-Tired Skirts

Gown by Vera Wang

Gown by Carolina Herrara

Gown by Provnovias

Gown by Junko Yoshioka

Gown by Oscar de la Renta

Gown by Christos

Gown by Anna Maier/ Ulla-Maija Couture

Lace Sleeves

Gown by Carolina Herrera

Gown by Monique Lhuillier

Gown by Pronovias

Gown by Oscar de la Renta

Gown by Wtoo Brides

Blush

Gown by Vera Wang

Gown by Monique Lhuillier

Gown by Oscar de la Renta

Gown by Wtoo Brides

Gown by Watters

... and lots and lots of Horsehair Trim!

(Not to worry fellow animal lovers, it is a synthetic fabric often used on the underskirt to create a crisper shape)

Gown by Vera Wang

Gown by Badley Mischka

Gown by Monique Lhuillier

Gown by Pronovias

Gown by Oscar de la Renta

Gown by Jenny Lee

Gown by Jim Helm

I am already excited to see some beautiful brides show off these fantastic trends in 2012 :) . Enjoy your weekend and please, fingers crossed that hurricane Irene stays off the North Carolina coast and that it is a safe weekend for all!

All the best,

Megan

Credit: Bridal Beauty

Wedding Trends Fourth Look: Vintage Inspired

2011-08-25T08:05:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

Today's trend is going to be 100% vintage inspired! More and more brides are incorporating vintage features into their big day to give their wedding a soulful, comfy feel :)

If you're going to have a vintage wedding, you have to have the perfect vintage dress! Check out these vintage inspired looks real brides have used to capture the essence of a vintage affair.

... Ah, there is just something so warm and lovely about a vintage gown :)

All the best,

Megan

Credits: Green Wedding Shoes, Millie Holloman, Once Wed, Style Me Pretty, & WhereToGetEngaged

Wedding Trends Third Look: From Head to Toe

2011-08-24T16:20:00.000-07:00

Hi y'all!

For our third look of the week I thought it would be fun to showcase some great trends to accent the perfect bridal duo and freshly manicured toes!

The two biggest trends to hit bridal hair have got to be the mixture of various hair embellishments into one knock-out hair adornment as well as the rustic bridal crown.

Here are some striking multidimensional hair pieces, perfect for the trendy bride!

These may not be a mixture of sorts but tell me that these hair accessories aren't dramatically dazzling...

To give your big day a retro feel, you can use the latest wedding trend- a crown! While these crowns may not be the crowns of royalty, a bride certainly deserves to be a princess at least once right?!

And of course, while perhaps not a new trend- a simple veil, flower, or brooch is always a timeless accent :) ...

Now on to the shoes! I have three words : glam, spunk, and giddy up!

Even the flower girl is savvy on the western trend too...

... how adorable is she?!

My personal trend favorites are two classic looks that are just irresistibly sweet :). I love the simplicity of this radiant flower and let's be real, what girl doesn't like Prada shoes?

I hope you enjoyed these head to toe trends as much as I did!

All the best,

Megan

Credits: Green Wedding Shoes, Mille Holloman, Once Wed, Style Me Pretty, & vine crown via Etsy

Wedding Trends Second Look: Textured Dresses

2011-08-23T10:34:00.000-07:00

To continue the week of wedding trends in preparation for our fashion spread my second look will be showcasing the always dreamy, textured dresses!

If you're looking for the perfect textured wedding dress, I suggest you turn to the King and Queen of stunning textured gowns, Lazaro and Vera Wang.

Lazaro uses the light texture of feathers to create incredible gowns that are soft and etherial yet make a statement and demand the attention of the room.

Vera Wang also uses texture to make a statement with her wedding dresses however, Vera uses flowing fabrics such as organza to create a delicate effect that is both feminine and sensual.

Both designers use texture in such a brilliant way to produce a multitude of dresses that are utterly lovely :)

Here are some real weddings that feature some gorgeous textured gowns:

Even a little bit of texture can give your dress just the right amount of pop to transform your look and wow your guests...

There is just something about textured dresses that is so wonderfully enchanting, don't you agree?

All the best,

Megan

Credits: Lazaro via Charmed Events,Vera Wang via Bravo Bride, real weddings via Style Me Pretty, Snippet & Ink, Green Wedding Shoes, Once Wed & Millie Holloman

A Week of Wedding Trends... First Look: Short Dresses

2011-08-22T19:28:00.000-07:00

This weekend Weddings will be shooting a fan favorite... the fashion spread!

In lieu of the upcoming shoot, this week I will highlight progressing fashion trends for the stylish bride. Our first look, short dresses.

While short dresses are still greatly outnumbered by the traditional long gown, many summer brides have chosen short dresses not only to beat the heat this summer, but to add an adorably fun flare to their special day!

Here is a look at the short dresses hitting the runway this fall:

For a more timeless look brides can turn to Lily Pulitzer and Oscar de la Renta for a more classic silhouette:

Lily Pulitzer

Oscar de la Renta

Here are some real weddings where brides use a shorter dress to a express their individuality and bring a charming, unexpected twist to their big day!

... And finally, a personal favorite of mine:

Short wedding dresses are a great way to personalize your day and bring a little extra cheer to your wedding :)

All the best,

Megan

Credits: Fall Fashion via La Belle Bride, Lily Pulitzer looks via Alden Blair Events, Oscar de la Renta looks via zankyou, real weddings via Style Me Pretty, Snippet & Ink, Green Wedding Shoes, & Once Wed

Something Old, Something Borrowed

2011-08-22T16:14:00.000-07:00

To our brides-to-be and lovers of all things wedding,

My name is Katey Warren and I'm elated to introduce myself as one of the interns of the lovely Weddings Magazine team. As a Raleigh native and a transfer student from NCSU to ECU, I have a true passion and love for North Carolina! In addition, for several years it has been my dream to work for a wedding magazine. With experience as managing editor and lifestyles writer for my university's newspaper, as well as a previous internship for luxury hospitality and lifestyle PR company J Public Relations in New York City, I have found my niche in researching and writing for the lifestyles industry, but no single topic has sparked my interest more than one -- weddings. The combination of beauty, creativity, originality, and unconditional love in weddings truly inspires me, and I'm excited to take this year to share with you my research and findings on trends and other wedding-related topics!

First, I'd love to share with you a wedding trend that hits close to home with me. Whether it's showcased through pieces of furniture, jewelry, accessories, or even the venue, we love that couples are adding vintage flair to their weddings. Growing up, I took note of how my thrifty, extremely creative mother and grandmother found ways to express themselves as artists on a budget. Their ability to create art out of scraps and vintage finds and turn “trash into treasure” has allowed me to see that beauty and art can come at any budget, and that revived, unwanted pieces can serve for hundreds of different purposes- all it takes is some creative thinking! Vintage pieces, such as the ones in the photos below, add charm, comfort, and a unique sense of style to weddings, and we're noticing that local brides are finding creative ways to put vintage and antique pieces on display on their special days. Save money and incorporate this trend by borrowing rustic, meaningful pieces from friends or relatives, or by visiting local antique shops and finding a piece that inspires you. The pieces themselves will tell a story to your guests, while also connecting the generations between them!

Photos courtesy of The Wedding Row and Ruffled Blog

Hope you enjoy this trend as much as I do; can't wait to continue sharing inventive, fun, beautiful, and quirky wedding ideas with you!

Cheers,

Katey

Celebrity Wedding Weekend!

2011-08-19T07:35:00.000-07:00

TGIF everyone! After a long week it is almost the weekend which means that it is also almost time for the wedding of mega-celebrity, Kim Kardashian.

While I may not be a Kim follower, the mass media has made it very clear that Kim is, in fact, getting married this weekend. Who knows what her extravagant affair will include but one thing is for certain, it will be nothing like the wedding of supermodel, Kate Moss that took place this past July!

Here are some photos of Kate's romantic, bohemian wedding day:

Hopefully Kate's romantic, Italian wedding inspires you to enjoy the weekend relaxing in the beauty of the outdoors surrounded by friends and family- I know that's where I'll be :) !

- Megan

All images by Mario Testino for Vogue

The Big Day is Here!

2011-08-18T03:53:00.000-07:00

I’m sorry; I should probably use caution when using the sequence, ‘the big day’, in the wedding world. While no one at Weddings is getting married, today is our big floral shoot at the The Umstead in Cary!

We are so excited to use The Umstead’s serene setting as the backdrop to some incredible floral arrangements! Brides get excited and alert your florists because Weddings' 2012 issue is going to have some simply fabulous tabletop inspirations to make your big day utterly enchanting :)

Here are some photos of The Umstead Hotel and Spa just to get your mouth watering:

Brought to you via: The Umstead

... ah, simply divine, don't you agree?

- Megan