Mark and I have been married almost seven years, so wedding planning is not something I have done recently. So, last spring when I did the styled shoot at Palm Valley Gardens, I was immersed in all those bridal feelings. Palm Valley Gardens is one of my favorite locations because it has such beautiful bones- you can take whats there and totally make it yours.
For this event, I worked with Dan at unforgettable events to create the vision I had. I wanted two different feels, one more romantic and French and the other more modern. We designed invitations, and sweets tables, cakes, and all things in between to match the theme- and what I realized- its hard planning a wedding, because its hard to make decisions! Every time I saw something, iI anted to add it to the details!
For this shoot, we had 5 brides, which means 5 different jewelry styles, dresses, and bouquets. Overall, the styles worked well together. I have to say, I love the style of something more formal for the ceremony, and then something more fun and playful for the reception- and which bride does not want TWO dresses for their big day!

So, what did I learn- have a plan! And the plan needs to be based on you dress, your style and your ultimate wedding feel. Certain venues, and dresses lend themselves to a more clean, modern feel- and if thats what you like, run with it! You have to start with what is important to YOU [and your groom}. Is food important- then selecting a venue where you can bring in your own caterer, and pastry chef is a must. I also suggest trying on dresses EARLY- you never know what is going to be your “style”- starting with some idea of your dress love is important- and can be as hard to find as your groom!

And last, know what you want, and stick to it! The more you look, the more you will want to add- so know where you are going so you don’t overwhelm yourself. Of course, most great ideas can be incorporated into your theme, or stye, you just need to add your personal touch to it…

and that leads me to the biggest piece of advice I can give to you when planning- make it YOU! This is your amazing day, no matter the size, no matter the budget. The best way to make your day its perfect potential, is to make the wedding your own!

 

 

Planning a styled shoot means lots of accessories, and lots of mess!

 

Lashes- the number one thing I recommend for your wedding day- they make your eyes POP! #2- a professional makeup artist {more on this later}

Think outside the box- flowers in trees, or paper lanterns in tress keeps the visual interest going- and fills your venue, whether outdoors, or in!

Dessert- another one of my faves- so I incorporated cookies, cupcakes, a smore bar, a candy bar, and cake- what a fabulous way to end your evening!food- amazingly detail rich, and delicious as well! I am a foodie- so I wanted food to be an important part of this shoot! Lucky for me, Catering by Liz did not disappoint, with their beautiful combinations, and colors!

Overall, this was such a rewarding experience for me. Looking at weddings all the time, makes me want to plan, plan, plan- and this was a really fun way to do that!

Thanks to all the wonderful vendors involved:

Photographer: Pure Sugar Studios

Reception Venue: Palm Valley Gardens

Flowers & Decor: Unforgettable Events

Catering: Catering by Liz

Cake, cookies, and cupcakes: Choux Cakes

Makeup Artist: Paulina Perez

Video- Visual Power Cinema

Invitation and tag design- Vanity’s Edge