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Wedding Planning at Work? Lunch-Break Links Brides-to-Be Need to See

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You'd never plan your wedding at work (cough, cough) — but your lunch break is a whole other story! For your #WeddingWednesday lunchtime, we rounded up gorgeous real weddings, pretty style details, and helpful tips from across the web. Our favorite recent wedding blogs have one thing in common: Farm settings! From a vintage-inspired celebration to an outdoor affair in San Diego, take a peek at the best wedding blogs:

There's probably no better way to highlight the rustic charm of a farm wedding venue than to incorporate lots of vintage-style lace. With DIY mason jars and hand-painted signs, this real wedding is the epitome of country charm, with a splash of retro romance. —POPSUGAR

Jeremy Roloff, one of the stars of TLC's Little People, Big World, wisely chose to marry fianceée Audrey Mirabella Botti on his family's farm. Roloff Farms was a gorgeous backdrop for their down-home wedding, and the day couldn't have been more beautiful. The photos are a must-see. —Brides

If you can't bring the couple to the farm, why not bring the farm to the couple?! That logic made sense for this engagement shoot, which took place at a farmer's market in St. Louis. The result is an earthy, unique look that is perfect for outdoorsy couples. —100 Layer Cake

This styled inspiration shoot infuses Tennessee's Bloomsbury Farms with hints of refined glamour. From the lush bouquet to the lilac-colored tablecloths, this is sure to inspire brides everywhere. —Ruffled

This real wedding took place at a farm in San Diego that the couple felt echoed the elegant, romantic feel of Paris, where they got engaged. It was a good choice — the rustic, outdoorsy space benefitted from creative touches like polka-dotted shirts and tulle skirts for bridesmaids — and the photos prove it. —Green Wedding Shoes


Did Lady Gaga Secretly Marry Taylor Kinney?!

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For all her off-the-wall onstage antics, Lady Gaga has been in a refreshingly stable relationship with hunky Chicago Fire actor Taylor Kinney for three years. Gaga stoked wedding rumors over the summer when she was spotted browsing through wedding dresses with her mother, but now marriage talk is going into overdrive, thanks to an Instagram photo.

Kinney's co-star Sophia Bush posted a photo (seen below) yesterday of her hugging Kinney, her on-screen love interest. He's pretty obviously wearing a wedding ring on his left ring finger — and it's not for the show. "I'm REALLY excited to be on @nbcchicagofire tonight!" Bush captioned the image. "Just about as excited as I was to see my buddy #TaylorKinney at our press day yesterday. Bear hugs are the best hugs. #ChicagoFire #ChicagoPD #ThatsHisPersonalRing #NotForTheShow #EveryoneCalmDown #LindsayAndSeverideArentMarried." See that? She said it's his personal ring, not for the show! Unless it's some kind of "mangagement" ring, we have a feeling that he and Gaga might have secretly tied the knot.

Though she's kept relatively mum about her future with Kinney, Lady Gaga did open up to Howard Stern earlier this year about her appreciation for her longtime love. "To be fair, he has stuck it out with me for a very long time through drug habits and all those sorts of things," she said. "So he's a really lovely, amazing person."

For now, only time will tell if that ring is just a red herring. If it's not, we may have to start demanding wedding dress pictures ASAP!

Floral Wedding Trend: Long Ribbon Bouquets

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There's just something so romantic about a lush arrangement of flowers finished with a trail of flowing ribbon. It's also a great way to incorporate pops of color into your bouquet design — you can use multiple strands of the same spool of ribbon, which creates a very elegant and cohesive look, or opt for a variety of ribbons in different complementary shades, textures, and fabrics to create something a bit more whimsical and unexpected. But whatever you decide, the long ribbon bouquet is sure to be dramatic and sophisticated. Here are our favorite ways to pull off this ultra-pretty floral trend.

1. These vibrant coral-pink bouquets (above) combine garden roses and poppies and are tied with coordinating ribbons that cascade past the knees.

bouquet with long ribbons

Photo: Anne Robert

2. Florist Holly Chapple created this lush, rustic bouquet featuring a trail of mix-and-match ribbons.

3. We love the romantic combination of cream flowers (how perfect are those clematises?!), fresh greenery, and dip-dyed blue silk ribbons.

4. This cream-and-yellow bouquet is so elegant and sophisticated, not to mention how romantic the yellow ribbons are, fluttering in the breeze.

5. Complement a lush, blush-pink bouquet with multiple strands of satin ribbons in shades of champagne and dusty rose.

bouquet with long ribbons

Photo: Jose Villa

6. The extra-long cream-colored ribbons look so elegant against the bridesmaids' solid-color, floor-length dresses.

bouquet with long ribbons

Photo: Jose Villa

7. Ask your florist to use a variety of ribbons in different textures and materials to create a wonderfully layered ribbon cascade.

bouquet with long ribbons

Photo: Jose Villa

8. Create a sense of drama with a cascade of ribbons that trail all the way down to the floor.

How Real Brides Reached Out to Their New Stepchildren

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Real Bride Tips for Reaching Out to Stepchildren

Photo: Getty Images

Sometimes, "the whole package" you're getting with your marriage includes his children. And just like you and your man, you form a new family together. It isn't always easy to do, but the relationship is something special. Here, our readers shared with us some of the ways you reached out to your stepchildren before and just after they got married.

"I'm just my silly, goofy self around them. They love me and I love them, but I make sure to let them know that I'm not trying to replace their mother. It really helps that their mother and I have the same views on parenting and similar parenting styles." — Laura S.

"Lucky for me, my stepdaughter's father and I have been together since she was three, and it was love at first sight. I treat her just like she was my own daughter, because to me, she is!" — Amanda D.

See More: How to Take Cute Photos of Kids at Your Wedding

"I treat my two stepsons as if I gave birth to them. Their biological mother is nonexistent by her own choice. So, to me, they aren't my "step" sons, they're my sons. During our wedding ceremony, all four of us lit a unity candle together, and I dedicated a song to them called 'Dirty Dishes' by Scott McCreery." — Miranda L.

"We just became close as we got to know each other. I made it clear, they have a mom already, but I wanted to have mutual respect because we all love their father. My future stepdaughter is one of my junior bridesmaids. Looking forward to our future together!" — Simone M.

"I'll have a stepson and a stepdaughter. I treat them no differently than I treat my own son (their brother) and we don't allow the family to play favorites. We have girls' days and the boys will have guys' days. We'll have them both next to us when we say, 'I do!'" — Carmen M.

Jolène M. Bouchon is a regular contributor to Brides.com and a freelance writer.

3 Things Every Bride Can Learn from This Tradition-Focused Wedding in Annapolis, Maryland

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Bride and Groom With Navy Swordsmen

Photo: Vivian Smith of Sapphire Style

For their September 28, 2013 nuptials, Charlotte Kaplan, 28, and Stephen Hughes, 26, had no trouble agreeing on a theme and location. The pair of soon-to-be Navy doctors, who met in medical school in 2010 and fell in love over home-cooked dinners and study sessions, decided to honor Steve's alma mater and their family Naval history with a wedding at the United States Naval Academy Chapel in Annapolis. They embraced an all-out Navy theme, selecting blue and gold as their colors and incorporating nautical touches wherever possible.

Vivian Smith of Sapphire Style captured their big day. Take a look at some of our favorite details below.

Navy Uniform Accessories Navy and Gold Wedding Cake With Sword

Photo: Vivian Smith of Sapphire Style

Make the day special for you both.
With long lines of Naval Officers and Naval Academy graduates in both families, it made perfect sense for Charlotte and Steve to honor the Navy throughout their wedding day. "Getting a wedding date at the United States naval Academy Chapel can be a challenge," says Charlotte, "but Steve attended weekly services there, so we had to at least try to get in! It was such an honor to get married there."

The couple also included a symbolic Navy tradition, the arch of swords. After the ceremony, Steve's swordsmen lifted their sabres for the bride and groom to pass beneath.

Bride in Lace Wedding Dress

Photo: Vivian Smith of Sapphire Style

Match your dress to your venue (and groom).
With a fear of looking yellow next to her groom's all-white uniform, Charlotte picked an almost pure white Enzoani gown with lace cap sleeves, a scalloped neckline, and a keyhole cutout in the back. In addition to her love of all things lace, Charlotte says she had the venue in mind when selecting her dress. "I chose a long train since I knew I'd have a long aisle to walk down at the chapel!" she says.

Handmade Knot Place Holders

Photo: Vivian Smith of Sapphire Style

Yes, you can DIY.
Though Charlotte and Steve spent most of their 10-month engagement doing med school rotations, they found time for a few DIY projects. Several hundred yards of rope, 200 rubber balls, and a YouTube tutorial helped the bride, her mother-in-law, and her sister-in-law create 200 monkey fist knots to hold the escort cards.

Ceremony Venue: United States Naval Academy Chapel || Reception Venue: The Loews Annapolis || Bride's Wedding Dress: Enzoani Bridal, from Ferri Formals and Bridal || Veil: Matthew Eachus, Ferri Formals and Bridal || Hair: Jamie Halcott, Baltimore Bridal Hair, LLC || Makeup: Tori Harris, Blush Makeup Artistry || Groom's Suit: United States Navy Dress White Uniform || Favors: Donation to Wounded Warrior Project || Photography: Vivian Smith for Sapphire Style ||

See Photos from Little People Big World's Jeremy Roloff and Audrey Botti's Honeymoon!

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And the cute couple just keeps on getting cuter! Little People Big World's Jeremy Roloff, who married Audrey Botti a little more than a week ago, is having the time of his life on a Jamaican honeymoon with his brand-new wife!

The two lovebirds jetted off to the Caribbean island to relish in their newlywed status after an adorable rustic-meets-boho-chic wedding at Roloff's famed family farm in Oregon. The best part of their honeymoon, though, wasn't only the foreign locale, but the fact that post-nuptials, these two decided to completely unplug and spend quality time together as man and wife. It wasn't until their wedding aired last night on TLC that they decided to rejoin cyber society.

See more: The Best TV Proposals Ever

"Greetings from Jamaica, yamon! Today we have been married for a week and have been unplugged until now. Hallelujah. We just wanted to say Praise the Lord. Days filled with joy, books, and a wife. Stoked to watch our wedding with ya'll on @TLC this Tuesday at 9/10 #theroloffwedding #journeyofjerandauj," Jeremy wrote on his Instagram next to an adorable photo of their sun-soaked selves, above.

Audrey, too, marked the week-a-versy with some Instagrams. "Today we've been Mr and Mrs Roloff for one week!" Audrey captioned a photo of their first kiss. "Jer and I have been in Jamaica on a moon full of honey, unplugging from the world, laying on the beach, resting and relaxing, reading to each other, and reminiscing on our wedding day. It was everything we had ever hoped it would be, and more."

She also posted a super-sweet photo of them kissing on a catamaran, above. "Catamaran kisses, no complaints," she wrote next to the photo.

It looks like they're having the time of their lives!

6 Décor Questions You Have to Ask About Your Ceremony Site

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Most brides and grooms choose to decorate their wedding ceremony space with some sort of flowers, fans, candles, altars, or garlands. And why not?! As long as the venue or house of worship allows it, adding some pizzazz helps convey your wedding theme and makes guests feel truly at home in a place you personalized. If you are thinking about your ceremony décor, you should definitely keep some important points in mind before you make a final decision. Here, some things to ask the person in charge at your venue:

• Are there any decorating rules or restrictions? What kinds of floral arrangements/decorations are permitted?

• At what time may decorations be delivered and how will access be arranged? How do you arrange access for a florist to decorate?

• What is the site policy on the disposition of flowers after the ceremony? Is there a policy on removing the flowers after the ceremony? Couples often wish to use flowers as reception decorations; to deliver them to area hospitals or nursing homes; or to give them to friends.

• Are candles permitted as decorations other than within the sanctuary?

• Does the ceremony site provide an aisle runner, should you want to use one, or do you need to order one from the florist?

• For a Jewish ceremony: Who will provide the chuppah and may it be decorated with flowers?

5 Perfect Cosmetic Cases for Your Wedding Day

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Cosmetic Cases for Your Wedding Day

Photos: Courtesy of Vendors; Illustration: Christina Park

Because you can't carry your wedding-day makeup in just any old thing, we've rounded up a few gorgeous cosmetic cases that will make your big-day touch-ups look oh-so glamorous.

1. Love newlywed Lauren Conrad's vintage, girly-girl aesthetic? Then this set of pastel pouches will be right up your alley. Stash your emergency items in the smallest one (lipstick, compact, blotting papers). In the second goes your blush, foundation, and eye makeup, and in the largest, your makeup brushes and eyelash curler. With this system of organization, you'll at least look the part of the calm, cool, and collected bride. Henri Bendel, $78 for set of 3, Henri Bendel

2. If you're going for a floral theme, this feminine little case will be a perfect addition. And the inside lining is pink! (It's all about the details, right?) Ted Baker, $50, Bloomingdales

See more: The Surprising Lipstick Color Fall Brides Should Try

3. This elegant light-blue clutch is perfect for the minimalist bride. It's just big enough to fit everything you'll need to create your natural, paired-down makeup look. (Oh and we'll totally let it count as your something blue.) Smythson, $330, Net-A-Porter

See more: Wedding Beauty Survival Guide: Dos & Don'ts for Your Hair and Makeup Trial

4. Jetting off to your honeymoon right after your nuptials? Use this this convenient case to stash your day-of cosmetics, and then tote it with you on the plane. We love that it's transparent so you can easily dig out your hydrating facial mist mid-flight. Anya Hindmarch, $250, Net-A-Porter

5. A silver case will fit right in with the rest of your metallic accessories — not to mention it will stay cleaner much longer than a white one. P.S.: How chic will it look sitting on your vanity table? Just think of all of the glamorous getting-ready shots you can get with this just casually laying in the background ... Tory Burch, $85, Shopbop


What B.J. Novak Really Thinks About Mindy Kaling's Marriage Comments

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What could have been! Mindy Kaling caused a stir during an appearance on The Howard Stern show a few weeks ago when she divulged that her ex, close friend B.J. Novak, was a "great love" of hers.

When Stern prompted the comedian whether she would've married Novak, she replied: "At the time? Yeah. I was 24," she said, adding, "For the record, if anyone asked me to marry them, I would have said yes."

Now, it's Novak's turn to respond! On Watch What Happens Live! last night, Andy Cohen brought the interview up to the comic actor and writer. Once Cohen mentioned the interview, Novak said, "I thought it sounded to me like an honest and heartfelt account to a complicated and mostly wonderful relationship."

See more: The Best TV Proposals Ever

Of course, he couldn't reply without at least one laugh. "The highlight of that experience for me was my mom calling to sort of pry, like, 'So, what do you think of what Howard was saying? Sounded pretty interesting to me.' Like Howard Stern would somehow end up as part of my mom's sort of gentle harangue as, 'When are you gonna get your life together?'"

And while the two are besties now — Kaling frequently posts photos to Instagram of her and Novak, especially once his book, The Book With No Pictures, came out — it doesn't look like they'll be getting back together or marrying anytime soon.

"I love him, I think he's a great person but I'm not holding a candle for B.J.," Kaling finished off her segment with Stern. Hey, we can dream, though!

What to Do with Those Ugly Wedding Gifts

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Creative-Gift-Tables-Wagon-Amy-Arrington-Photography.jpg

Photo: Getty Images

We've all seen them: Gravy boats decorated in a goose pattern, or abstract art that looks as if it's the work of a two-year-old gone amuck with a paint brush. But what happens when you're on the receiving end of one of these gifts gone rogue from your wedding registry?

"There aren't very many circumstances where it's appropriate to tell the sender that you do not like the gift," says etiquette expert Diane Gottsman. So suck it up and send a sincere thank-you note. "A thank-you note thanks the giver for their thoughtfulness and kindness, not just the present itself," Gottsman says. As you would with any hand-written thank you, be sure to mention the gift by name and express gratitude for the giver's efforts.

After that, you're under no obligation to display the gift or, in some circumstances, even keep it. "If you know the store it came from, you can exchange it for something else you might use," suggests Gottsman. "You can donate it to charity, or save it and use it another time." Just beware re-gifting it, as the new recipient could ask for a gift receipt.

See More: What You Need to Know About Wedding Shower Gifts

In the case of custom presents or family heirlooms, it's best to keep the gift stored somewhere out of sight, bringing it out only when you know the giver will visit. "If they drop in unexpectedly and catch you with the gift not on display, you can explain that you rotate your [things] with the seasons to give each piece a chance to be in the spotlight," suggests Gottsman.

Finally, if the gift is of substantial value or size, such as an expensive piece of artwork that doesn't match your tastes, Gottsman says to be honest by saying, "This is such a generous gift. We truly appreciate the gesture, but we won't be able to use it — or, it's much too big for our small, one-bedroom apartment — and we would like for you to find someone that truly can use this generous offer."

What did you do with your bad wedding gifts? Tell us on Twitter at @BRIDES!

Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher Welcome a Baby Girl!

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Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher Clippers Game March 2014

Photo: Getty Images

After what feels like one of the longest Hollywood pregnancy ever, Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher are finally parents! According to the TMZ the engaged pair welcomed their first child on Tuesday, September 30 at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

Their newborn daughter, whose name has not been revealed yet, is said to be doing well. "She's here and healthy," People reports. Just weeks before the birth, Kutcher tweeted about his feelings on awaiting parenthood, seen below, which is common for any first-time dad.

Earlier this year, Kunis told Ellen DeGeneres that she was planning on giving birth without medication, saying, "I'm going to do it as all natural as I possibly can unless there's an emergency or something that should go wrong. I did this to myself, I might as well just do it right. I wanted this!"

See More: Watch: Mila Kunis Reveals What Bothers Pregnant Women Most (in the Most Hilarious Way Possible)

Now we just need to wait to find out the tot's name! According to The Stir, Finn, to represent Kutcher's mother's maiden name Finnegan, is a top contender. While they're just rumors, we have to admit Finn Kutcher is a pretty adorable name for what is sure to be one very adorable little girl.

And now that they've finally welcomed baby Kutcher-Kunis, it's time to get serious about planning the wedding. The pair got engaged last February, just weeks before announcing their pregnancy. One thing's for sure: They've got their flower girl lined up!

5 Things to Know When It Comes to Your Signature Cocktail

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Having a signature cocktail for your wedding sounds easy enough, until it comes time to figure out exactly what that should be. Specific taste preferences aside, there are some general tips every couple should know to help them craft their custom drink. Ricki Quarterman, CEO of Mixology Bartending Services and Fred Parent, co-founder of Mixed Neat share the most important things to consider.

1. Use fresh ingredients.
Tell your bartender to use fresh ingredients, such as seasonal fruits, squeezed juices, and homemade syrups, whenever possible, advises Parent. The reason for this is twofold. First, fresh ingredients make a higher quality cocktail that tastes better and is more balanced. But fresh ingredients also contain less sugar than prepackaged mixers. Too much sugar with alcohol is a deadly combination that is not only extremely unhealthy, but guaranteed to lead to bad decisions and one hell of a hangover.

2. Keep in mind the color of your drink.
When designing your drink, don't just think about your favorite flavors and spirits, but also the color of the final outcome. "Cocktails that have a lighter hue look a lot more appealing than something dark like brown or purple," says Quarterman. "For couples who are really into color coordination, I always advise them to pick a drink that matches the brightest shade in their palette."

See More: Creative Cocktail Bar Ideas for Every Type of Wedding

3. Know the tradeoff between the complexity of the drink and quantity/speed it can be served.
If your signature cocktail requires 10 steps to make and needs to be individually shaken, then be prepared to see a line at the bar, warns Quarterman. "If you're just serving your signature drink for a short period of time and want everyone to try it, then you should pick something that can be made in a big batch so all the bartender needs to do is pour." On the flip side, if you want your signature cocktail to be something that guests savor slowly all evening, then a more carefully-crafted cocktail would add to that experience, says Parent.

4. Consider a classic with a twist.
If you're at a loss for where to start, choose a classic and let the bartender experiment with different ingredients to change up the flavor profile. "A cosmopolitan is always a classic choice," says Parent. "But using cranberry juice can make the drink feel a bit generic. Instead, talk to your mixologist to see if he can use a homemade grenadine and swap in a more unique fruit — such as pomegranate — instead."

5. For the safest bet, go with a vodka base.
"Usually if the couple isn't set on having a very specific type of alcohol, we try to convince them to use vodka as the base for their signature cocktail," says Quarterman. "Almost everyone can stomach vodka, but not everyone can tolerate bourbon or cognac or tequila. Vodka is also one of the easiest spirits to mix with, so we can create all different kinds of flavors for the drink. And if the groom wants something a little stronger or less fruity, then we'll create a second cocktail using a different type of spirit, but it's always good to have a vodka option for your guests."

Interior Designer Danielle Colding's Sophisticated Wedding in Brooklyn, NY

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Every wedding starts with a proposal, but Danielle Colding and Frederic Troadec's is a little different — he proposed twice! In early May of 2014, the couple got engaged for the first time, in a truly practical manner. "The conversation went something like 'Should we do it?' 'Ok, let's pick a date,'" says Danielle. "We easily settled on August 16th, 2014, a year after we started dating, and Frederic went downstairs to our favorite restaurant to see if it was available, and that was that."

On July 22nd, when the couple was knee-deep into planning, they had a second, more storybook moment. "He invited me to meet him at Bemelmans Bar at the Carlyle Hotel," says the bride, "one of his favorite places in the city." After a round of drinks, Fred presented Danielle with rose macarons, her favorite dessert. Inside the second macaron was a ring, and he whispered his proposal in her ear.

The couple kept their wedding simple, nodding to Fred's French heritage and hosting an elegant dinner party with incredible food and wine at Bacchus in Brooklyn, New York. Danielle, winner of season seven of HGTV's Design Star and acclaimed interior designer, focused on the ambiance and created a relaxed, bohemian feel that was perfect for their outdoor celebration.

Read on for all the details, and to see the gorgeous photos by Margarita Corporan.

Danielle's dress shopping began with a trip to Haute Hippie, where she tried on this gold sequined gown with a draped bodice. "Everyone in the showroom gasped when I came out of the dressing room," says the bride. She shopped around for white dresses, but nothing measured up. "It was so comfortable, the perfect silhouette for my shape, and just so me."

She paired her gown with blush Christian Louboutin slingbacks, a glitzy blush clutch, and statement earrings. Her bouquet featured a relaxed collection of blush dahlias and white roses, a soft addition to her glam look.

This bride knows her accessories, donning an oversized ring borrowed from Erickson Beamon. Another sweet accessory? The couple's dog, who wore a collar of greenery for the occasion.

"I didn't work with a wedding planner," says Danielle, "but I turned to my friends in the bridal industry to help me work out all the details." One such friend? Our very own Editor in Chief, Keija Minor.

The ceremony took place in the courtyard at Bacchus. The tree's branches, strung with lights, served as the altar. The aisle was lined with bunches of babies breath, the bride's favorite flower from childhood.

Danielle walked herself down the aisle to "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole. The ceremony was officiated by Shaman Durek, a healer the couple is close with, and included two readings, including "On Marriage" by Kahlil Gabran. "My mother passed away, and the same poem was read at her wedding," says Danielle. "It was a way to include her."

"We didn't go into the planning process with a vision," says Danielle. "We had a feeling we wanted to achieve, and it evolved from there."

The pair worked with Kat of Kat Flower to top the tables, using a combination of small centerpieces and individual blossoms in mismatched vases.

The 80 guests sat at long tables, topped with dahlias and roses, for the French-inspired meal. "One of my favorite details was having the menu written out on an antique mirror," says Danielle. The six course meal included Melon au Porto, Miso-glazed cod, and roasted rack of lamb, and guests sipped kir and Prosecco and rosé. For dessert, everyone nibbled on a selection of pastries, including the bride's favorite rose macarons.

Danielle surprised Fred with a wedding cake. "He's a chocolate fanatic," she says of the fondant-covered layers. The simple decorations included gold bands and "beaucoup beaucoup" written on top. "It means 'very much' in French," says Danielle, "and it's what Fred always says to me instead of saying he loves me." After dinner, the party headed inside for a DJ-fueled '90s dance party. "We had a blast!" says the bride.

The couple honeymooned in upstate New York, relaxing along a river. "Being married doesn't feel that different," says Danielle. "Except when we're talking to other people — it still feels strange to say 'husband,' but the important thing is that we're incredibly happy."

If you love Danielle's style as much as we do, check out the October 2014 issue of Lonny to see what inspires her.

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Bacchus || Bride's Wedding Dress: Haute Hippie || Shoes: Christian Louboutin || Jewelry: Erickson Beamon || Makeup: Nadine Vendryes || Groom's Attire: By Robert James, Y-3 || Florist: Kat Flower || Invitations & Paper Goods: Minted || Music: DJ Center || Catering: Bacchus || Cake: Betty Bakery || Photography: Margarita Corporan

WATCH: A Man Proposes to His Girlfriend at a One Direction Concert

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A few months ago, One Direction's Harry Styles jokingly (albeit adorably) proposed to a fan in a wedding dress at the band's Philadelphia concert. That was cute and all, but last night, the entire band took love to the next level at their Atlanta tour stop — they helped a man propose to his girlfriend in the audience!

Bradley Chisenhall created a special Twitter account a few days before the concert, and sent a straightforward, and, apparently, convincing, tweet to all of the One Directioners asking for their help.

The gambit worked (Chisenhall's now fiancée didn't get Twitter until after the proposal, so she never caught wise) and all five of the band members got the hashtag #1DProposal trending, getting fans extra excited about the moment. And excited they got. Last night, some truly invested people even found Chisenhall in the audience.

Before his girlfriend had a chance to notice the obvious ring box in his pocket, Harry Styles found a break in the show and gave a shout-out to "a friend in the audience," which signaled the proposal moment. Obviously, his girlfriend, Christine Kozlowski, was ecstatic and said yes. The best part? They made it on the Jumbotron and got a photo with Harry Styles himself. If her engagement doesn't make all of her friends jealous, then the photo definitely will!

7 Fresh Takes on the Wedding Guestbook

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Wedding Guestbook Ideas Signed Dictionary

Photo: Austin Gros

Everyone has seen that standard, run-of-the-mill wedding guestbook. The problem is, most guests have already written a thoughtful note in their card, and thinking of another heartwarming message on the spur of the moment doesn't always come so easily. So couples are either left with a book of signatures or a series of half-hearted messages. The solution? An alternative guestbook! Couples are getting creative and offering guests alternatives to the blank book, like photo albums or prompts, which are ultimately more meaningful and are sure to be treasured for years to come. Here are some of our favorite creative guestbooks:

The Dictionary (above)
This couple provided a beautiful dictionary with a note inviting guests to circle a word they felt described the bride and groom as a pair, and then sign their name by the choice. It's a super sweet idea, and you can neatly tuck the dictionary away on bookcase and take out on special days.

The Picnic Table
This couple wanted guests to leave their mark on something they could enjoy each and everyday, so they asked guests to use paint pens and sign a piece of stained yellow pine. They used a chalkboard to instruct guests to sign the plank that would ultimately become the centerpiece of their backyard picnic table.

The Vintage Typewriter
Typewriters have become a popular alternative to the classic guestbook, and for good reason! Taking the time to type out your message gives you the opportunity to collect your thoughts, and whether you share a message big or small, the antique-style feels special. Plus, they provided gold wax seals, so the entire process of "signing" the guest book was a fun and interactive part of their wedding reception.

The Photo Album
What's easier than snapping your photo and leaving it for the bride and groom? This couple capitalized on their Old Hollywood theme and provided cameras for guests to photograph themselves and create a hilarious album for the bride and groom to take home.

The Art Piece
To make sure they could see their guestbook daily, this couple created a piece of art that guests could sign. Their two thumbprints overlap to make a heart and friends and family signed their names in the available space.

The Puzzle
Consider offering a puzzle for guests to sign. It's meaningful (since each guest leaves their mark on one piece of your puzzle) and practical (since there's just enough space to sign a name). Friends and family won't feel pressured to leave long notes, and you and your groom can bring it out and rebuild the pieces to remember your wedding.

The Map
This is an especially great idea if you're hosting a destination wedding or have guests from around the world. Have your friends and family sign a map from their hometown, or a place that hold meaning for them. This couple used a print on cloth that they could then hang, but a classic paper map would look beautiful framed, too!


Exclusive: Get a Sneak Peek at Theia's Fall 2015 Collection

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Theia Fall 2015 Collection Inspiration

Photo: Courtesy of Theia

It's that time of year again! Bridal Fashion Week is fast-approaching. To gear up for the Fall 2015 wedding dress collections, we sat down with the creative director behind one of our favorite bridal brands, Theia, to get a sneak peek at their latest range. Here, what inspired Don O'Neill's latest collection for Theia, plus his shopping tips for brides-to-be.

Brides: What is the inspiration for your upcoming collection?
Don O'Neill: For this show we're going to Mongolia in the winter (Ed note: You can see Don's inspiration, above). When I started working on the collection, I was inspired by a beautiful Mongolian lamb. It was a beautiful ivory color and it just looked to me like warm, cozy, and luxurious and it sort of took life from there. I mixed my own Irish heritage with the heritage of the tribes of Mongolia — blending in cashmeres and as I said the exotic fur of the Mongolian lambs and chunky embroideries and heavy laces (see below!). The whole idea is to be cozy, warm and luxurious.

Theia Fall 2015 Sneak Peek Fabrics

Photo: Courtesy of Theia

Brides: How would you describe the Theia bride?
O'Neill: The Theia bride is number one and above all elegant. The whole idea behind the label in general is true to being a goddess. And like a goddess, there's this special light that comes from within on your wedding day — which is very much part of what Theia's all about. And to think that my dress helps her feel special on that very magical day is what I strive for when I'm dressing a bride.

Brides: What bridal trends are you loving at the moment?
O'Neill: Well, this season, I've been thinking a lot about texture. And mixed with the texture, volume — but soft volume. A lot of my skirts this season are very full, we've put big circle skirts onto the gowns with tulle and chiffons that are 10 and 12 yards. It's all about having lots and lost of beautiful volume swirling around you. At the same time keeping the line long and lean with very special embroideries.

Brides: What silhouettes can we expect to see from you this go-round?
O'Neill: So far nothing is particularly huge. Last season, I had giant huge ball gowns, so this time I still have volume but I've taken away the crinolines. So you're not going to be knocking people over going up the aisle, but you'll still have the luxury of all that fabric swirling around you as you walk.

Brides: How would you say this collection is different from previous collections?
O'Neill: My last collection was Celtic fairy goddesses rising up out of the ocean. So this time basically my girls are up in the mountains, herding cashmere goats, and they're in the high Himalayas and they're coming through snow into a new existence. So it's a very different girl, from a very different part of the world, with a different aesthetic. It will be interesting to see how my frozen ice queen compares to my Irish sea fairy goddesses.

Brides: What are your top wedding dress shopping tips?
O'Neill: First of all you should know your own body and what you look good in. So that when you go into the bridal salon and you're faced with a thousand dresses you can narrow it down very quickly. And actually listen to the sales associates because they're very good at what they do.

When you're in the dress, you should listen to your instincts. A lot of girls tend to listen to the four to five other people that came with them, and at the end of the day you're the one looking in the mirror on your wedding day. There are girls who have a specific idea from when they were very little of what they thought they'd look like on their wedding day, but I think when you put on the right dress and you look in the mirror you'll know exactly that the dress is right for you.

Cute and Creative Alternatives to Tried-and-True Wedding Traditions

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You spend a ton of time and money planning your wedding so why shouldn't it be a total reflection of you and your fiancé (at least to an extent, anyway)? Whether you're an offbeat bride or you just don't know any little kids to walk down the aisle, you can still put a twist on tradition and personalize your big day with these alternative ideas.

Toss a breakaway bouquet
Don't want to nix the whole bouquet toss tradition altogether? Then gather all your single girl friends out on the dance floor and surprise them with a breakaway bouquet instead. "Many individual flowers or wrapped portions of the toss bouquet are tied together with a string, which the bride surreptitiously removes before tossing the bouquet," explains Lynn Jawitz, owner of Florisan Wedding and Event Design in NYC. "All of the ladies who are expecting one bouquet to come flying are surprised when many individual bouquets come showering down upon them, giving them each their own piece of the toss bouquet to take back to their seats."

Give your dog the ring bearer job
Or flower girl! It's no secret many of us consider our dog to be a part of our family so including them in the ceremony is pretty much a no-brainer. Associate planner and event designer at Pure Luxe Bride, Blake Bush, is absolutely loving this new trend. "They make the most adorable flower girls and ring bearers — or even as a companion to walk down the aisle with the groom," she says.

See More: 6 Wedding Traditions You Shouldn't Feel Bad About Skipping

Do an anniversary first dance
If being the center of attention isn't exactly your thing, an anniversary dance is the perfect way to share some of the spotlight. According to wedding planner Shafonne Myers, founder of Pretty Pear Bride, an anniversary dance is when all married couples report to the dance floor, and as the song plays, the DJ calls out years of marriage. "Typically you start out with being married for 30 minutes (the bride and groom) and work your way up in years," she notes. "It's great because the song ends on the couple that has been married the longest, highlighting them as well as you and your husband."

Plant a tree to symbolize your unity
Calling all free-spirited, green brides! Keep things down to earth on your big day and bring both families together by planting a tree. "It's a fabulous alternative to lighting a traditional unity candle, and the couple could water the tree during the ceremony and later plant it at their new home," offers event designer Veronica Cole. "Then you can watch it grow for years to come."

Do one big father-daughter dance
And/or mother son dance. "This is such a winning idea, especially for larger weddings with lots of family members," says Lynn D'Ascanio of D'Asigner Events. "Let the couple dance for the first minute or so, then have the DJ ask the guests if there are any other fathers and daughters (or sons and mothers) who would like to join the couple on the dance floor. Brides and grooms often love this idea since they're not the soul focus of attention for three to four minutes straight."

Find Out George Clooney's First Dance Song!

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George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin wedding

Photo: Getty Images

For one of this year's most iconic and star-studded weddings, we'd expect the entertainment to be top-notch. But instead of opting for a big hitter like guest Bono to sing for their first dance, George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin made a surprising choice.

Apparently, the newly-minted Clooneys asked close family friend Nora Sagal, who is the teenage daughter of Warner Bros. executive David Sagal to perform at their ceremony and at their reception. According to Clooney, the girl is an untapped source of talent.

"[She] sang 'Always' during the ceremony," Clooney told People in their cover story. Fun fact: "Always" was actually the song that Clooney's parents danced to at their wedding years ago. That wasn't the only tune she crooned: Sagal sang yet again for their first dance a classic, Cole Porter's "Why Shouldn't I?"

See more: Find Out Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka's First Dance Song

But his wedding wasn't the first time Clooney had his younger friend sing for him — he enlisted Sagal's help while working on Monuments Men, having her record a rendition "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" for the film.

"[She] is just an insanely talented singer, and I had her record that at her school," Clooney said to Collider back in February. "She recorded that song and we just used it." The star adds, "It's spectacular. She's a real talent."

We're sure she is! And we're not surprised to see Clooney and Alamuddin select such timeless songs for their big day — the whole Venetian affair was so sophisticated and classic, that like their playlist, we're sure it will stand the test of time.

Meet the In-Laws: How to Get Your Families Together for the First Time

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A wedding isn't just the joining together of two people, it's also the joining of two — and sometimes more — families. If your parents and your fiancé's parents and/or family have never met or don't know each other very well, you have an obligation to arrange a gathering of some sort. But don't fret about this slightly stressful endeavor! We have a few etiquette expert-approved tips that should help facilitate this big moment.

If they've never met or spoken to one another before, find a way to make an introduction before they meet in person.
It matters very little who makes the first move, though a bride's parents might want to wait a bit to give the groom's family a chance to honor custom. A phone call (or, if you feel comfortable using it, Skype or FaceTime) is the easiest route; if the couple lives near one set of parents, they might all get together for a conference call. Handwritten notes are always nice. E-mail is possible, and some people may find its casual tone an easier way to introduce themselves and express their pleasure at the engagement. Both sets of parents should act with spontaneity and in the spirit of friendship, regardless of who makes the first contact.

Who hosts the first get-together?
It's traditionally the responsibility of the groom's parents, but the diversity of today's family structure, not to mention hectic work and travel schedules, often makes it difficult to follow custom. The bride-and groom-to-be are best positioned to know when a meeting will be convenient for everyone and what kind of gathering is most likely to put everyone at ease. Who actually hosts the occasion is a matter of preference more than tradition. If the bride's mother loves to entertain, why stand on tradition? A casual event, such as a barbecue or weeknight dinner, is often most comfortable.

My parents are divorced. How do I handle that?
Unfortunately, your engagement means you have to carefully think about your family structure and have realistic expectations. Separate meetings should be arranged with each set of parents so that everyone involved has a chance to meet. Under no circumstances should divorced parents be forced into social situations that have the potential to make them — and others — feel uncomfortable. If your parents are on decent, friendly terms, then perhaps they wouldn't mind being at a casual get-together with several other family members present to ease the situation. Otherwise, let it be.

Sarah Knight Reveals How She Balances Wedding Planning, Her Job as Assistant to Giuliana Rancic and a Long Distance Relationship

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Sarah Knight and Fiance

Photo: Courtesy of Sarah Knight

Meet our latest real wedding blogger Sarah Knight, personal assistant to Giuliana Rancic at E! Entertainment. Sarah is in the midst of planning her Los Angeles wedding and she's going to share each step of the process. From guest list tips to cake tasting with G while her fiancé is away playing baseball, follow Sarah's journey as she navigates the dos and dont's of wedding planning!

Planning a wedding is no easy task. As many of us working brides know, balancing your career and relationships while organizing the biggest and best day of your life can drive you crazy!

I have a super busy (yet extremely fun!) job as the personal assistant to Giuliana Rancic from E! Entertainment. Plus, I am long distance with my fiancé for six months out of the year since he plays baseball. So the thought of planning the wedding of our dreams, while balancing all of this stressed me out just a little. I'm sure there are many career-focused brides out there who are experiencing these same feelings, so I'm sharing my tips on how to maintain your sanity, thrive in your relationship, and actually enjoy the wedding-planning process.

Take a deep breath and make a plan.
I am a list person so I immediately searched for the perfect notebook to keep me organized. Erin Condren makes the best organizers and it was an added bonus that she created one especially for the bride-to-be! And how cute is it that it can be personalized with your photo on the front cover?! (Check mine out above!) It comes fully equipped with a calendar, vendor checklist, lined paper for those never-ending lists and markers for color coding. This is the stuff I dream about at night ...

See More: A Groom Tells All: How You're (unintentionally) Annoying Your Fiancé While Wedding Planning

If possible, hire a wedding planner.
This was the best decision we made in the wedding planning process. I met our fabulous planner, Alicia Townsend from Details, Details, through a mutual friend prior to getting engaged. Not only is Alicia smart, professional and stylish, she is also so much fun! She's someone that I want to hang out with, which is so important when selecting your coordinator. And I know budget can stand in the way of hiring a wedding planner for many brides, but in my experience, hiring a pro has helped me save money. Professionals know the ins and outs of the industry and will make sure that you're not being taken advantage of by a vendor. Consider splurging on a planner instead of another big-ticket item if you can make it work.

Don't let "wedding talk" take over your relationship with your fiancé.
I admit it: I am guilty of talking about my wedding plans — a lot. But, when it comes to my day-to-day conversations with my fiancé, I have reeled in my flower arrangement and oh-so-important place cards chatter. While he loves giving input and receiving photos of the latest and greatest ideas for ribbon tying, he also wants to hear about how I am doing and what my day was like — especially since we're long distance. It's easy to get caught up in talking about wedding plans, so make it a priority to set aside a date night or even a full day (is it really possible?!) without talking about your wedding. Not only will you be proud of yourself for accomplishing such a seemingly impossible task, but your fiancé will thank you too!

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