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Why We Love It
This groom's reaction upon seeing his bride for the first time is priceless.
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20 of the Most Daring New Wedding Dresses
Here comes the bride, all dressed in...ombré, feathers, a catsuit/dress hybrid, an intergalactic print, or a sheer getup that's NSFW. These unconventional outfits from Bridal Fashion Week will make your jaw drop!
By: Stefania Sainato
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Hayley Paige -161972
Photo courtesy of designer
Hayley Paige
Photo courtesy of designer
20 of the Most Daring New Wedding Dresses
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60 Must-Have "Getting Ready" Photos
Although the bulk of your wedding photos will be taken during the ceremony and reception, the hours leading up to the main event are a crucial part of the storytelling process. Emotions are running high while everyone is getting dressed and beautified —especially when you finally make your big debut as a bride — and all of that nervous and giddy energy can equate to some amazingly intimate photographs. Now's also the time to capture those little details that you worked so hard to plan, such as your invitations, bouquets, and more. Check out 60 behind-the-scenes snapshots that you can take before the I dos!
By: Stefania Sainato
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Action shots like these make fun additions to any wedding album.
Photo Credit: Julian Kanz Photography
A Sweet Shot With Grandma
How touching is this moment between a bride and her grandmother caught on film? If you're blessed to have your grandparents still around, then include them in the photo-taking fun.
Photo Credit: DreamLove Photography
A Pic With Your Furry Best Friend
Include your four-legged friends in your wedding day celebrations.
Related: What to Consider Before Including Your Pet in the Wedding
Photo Credit: Julia Newman Photography
If the Shoe Fits
Talk about a Cinderella moment! Even if you're getting ready solo, sans groom, it's still a great idea to include a shoe-tying snapshot.
Photo Credit: openField Photography
First Look With Your Bridesmaids
Resist the urge to show everyone what you'll look like in your dress before the big day. Some of the most touching pre-ceremony photos we've seen are of loved ones witnessing The Dress in all its glory — and getting weepy-eyed or ecstatic in the process.
Photo Credit: B.O.B Photography
First Look with Mom and Dad
"First looks" with grooms have surged in popularity in recent years, and now parents are joining in on the fun with their own photo reveals!
Related: Magical Photos of Parents Seeing Their Daughter As a Bride For the First Time
Photo Credits: Moxie Rose Photography
Putting On the Veil
There's something magical about a veil — it has the power to transform you into a blushing bride and bring your nearest and dearest to tears of joy.
Related: 50 Long Wedding Veils That Will Leave You Speechless
Photo Credit: Husar Photography
The Big Squeeze
Wearing a corseted wedding dress? Your friends will get a kick out of this amusing photo op.
Photo Credit: Evermore Photography
Getting Into Your Gown
A snapshot of mom lovingly buttoning or zipping you up is a sweet addition to any wedding album. Have her come with you to your final gown fitting to learn how to help you into your dress and bustle your train (if you have one).
Related: Like Mother, Like Daughter: Then-and-Now Wedding Photos
Photo Credit: Evermore Photography
Trying on the Dress (For Real This Time)
An aerial view captures the excitement without accidentally revealing too much.
Photo Credit: EM Events Photography
Formal Portrait
It's not every day that you get to wear a big fluffy dress or a cathedral-length veil, so take advantage with a few stylized portraits that'll make you feel like a movie star.
Photo Credit: Claudia McDade Photography
iPhone Paparazzi
Get stunning photos from every angle of your first moments in your gown.
Photo Credit: Cinematic By DavidM
Jumping on the Bed
Getting married doesn't mean you can't still enjoy the silly, childhood pleasures in life. Chief among them: Jumping on the bed with your best friends.
Photo Credit: Bre Thurston
Reading a Letter From Your Soon-to-Be Spouse
Exchange love letters describing all the reasons why you can't wait to marry your partner. Not only does this add to the romantic buildup before the big moment, but it also introduces another emotional element to your wedding photos and film.
Photo Credit: Eternal Reflections Photography
Your Main Squeeze
A photo of you admiring your wedding gown can be a sweet addition to your "must-haves" list. This bride took it a step further by giving her gown a big ole hug, and the resulting shot is all kinds of adorable.
Photo Credit: Tim Halberg
A Giddy Moment With Your MOH
Your maid of honor has been there for you through thick and thin — include a solo shot together to show how much her friendship means to you.
Related: How to Be an Awesome Maid of Honor
Photo Credit: The Reason
Stop to Smell the Roses
This pose is a beautiful way to highlight your bouquet. Plus, it's a more subtle take on a sexy garter shot.
Photo Credit: The Becker
Wedding Morning Excitement
The day you've been waiting for has finally arrived! Looking back on a joyful shot like this one will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside as you're flipping through your album.
Photo Credit: Natan Sans
Getting Ready Together
If you'll be bucking tradition by sleeping under the same roof on the night of the wedding, then add some unconventional, creative shots to the mix.
Photo Credit: Liliya Gorlanova
Wake Up, It's Your Wedding Day
Knock, knock. Who's there? Your VIP ladies, reporting for duty.
Photo Credit: Lennon Photo
The Last Time As a Miss
Plan on changing your last name after the wedding? Commemorate your last time as a Miss with this cute idea.
Related: 50 Sweet Props You'll Want to Use in Your Wedding Photos
Photo Credit: Lennon Photo
Toasting With Champs (and Confetti!)
Confetti isn't just for your ceremony sendoff — we love how it adds a festive pop of color to this champagne shot.
Photo Credit: Jackie Willome Photography
Flower Girl Fun
Cuteness alert! Include the tiniest member of the wedding party by having her "try on" your gown.
Photo Credit: Chelsea Anne Photography
Beauty Shots
Who doesn't love being pampered? Schedule your photographer's arrival towards the tail end of getting hair and makeup done, so they can snap some pics of you getting all glammed up, as well as close-ups of your beauty details.
Photo Credit: Le Secret d'Audrey / Planning and coordination: Anne Mulvihill at Fête in France
Mirror, Mirror
Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all? We think you already know the answer, dear brides.
Photo Credit: Brett Alison Photography
Dramatic Staircase Shot
Whether you're prepping for the event of a lifetime in your childhood home or a hotel, put the stairs to good use with a dramatic shot like this one.
Photo Credit: Will Pursell Photography
Let's Shake On It
The father giving away the bride before the ceremony is always an emotional moment. If you'll all be getting ready together at a hotel, then you can capture any casual interactions between your groom and Dad as well.
Photo Credit: LaVImage Photographers
Suiting Up
You always see photos of the bridesmaids getting ready, but don't forget about the groom and his guys! Even though their wedding prep may not be as, ahem, extensive as the girls', your photographer may still want to sneak in a few key shots, like this one.
Photo Credit: Dominique Attaway Photography
Catching Up on Some Light Reading Before the Ceremony
This photo setup is a creative way to include your favorite comics or books in your wedding photos.
Related: 25+ of the Most Unique Wedding Themes We've Ever Seen
Photo Credit: Milton Photography
Group Hug
A snapshot of rambunctious groomsmen rallying around their groom is nothing short of heartwarming.
Photo Credit: Julian Kanz
Silly Selfies
When your bridal party is all dressed and ready to go, it's inevitable that selfies will ensue. Compile them all with this clever idea!
Photo Credit: Monique Hessler Photography
Love Story Told Through Props
Tell your love story with a little help from umbrellas and your BFFs.
Photo Credit: True Photography
Goofing Off
Goofing off can lead to some unique bridal party photos. Exhibit A: This bridal party who hoisted their groom up to try and get a sneak peek of his bride!
Photo Credit: Zoe Rain for JKoe Photography
The Bouquets
Spell out your new married initial using your bridesmaids' bouquets! You'll want to take this shot early on in the day while the blooms are still in optimal condition.
Photo Credit: Annabella Charles Photography
A Parent's Love
Take solo portraits with each of your parents — you'll treasure them for years to come.
Photo Credit: Lacie Hansen Photography
A "First Look" With the Bride and Groom
You've probably already heard of a "first look"— the bride and groom sneak some time in alone before the ceremony and their photographer captures this private, magical moment on film. Modern couples love it because it leads to powerful, emotional photos and gives them a few precious minutes of solitude before wedding-day revelry begins. If you'd prefer to wait until the walk down the aisle to see one another, then this creative photo is the ultimate compromise.
Photo Credit: Kathleen Hertel Photography
Walk This Way
The walk to the ceremony is made all the more epic with this low angle and dramatic use of lighting.
Photo Credit: Radiant Photography by The Chansons
Show Off Funky Socks
Socks with patterns or illustrations add a dose of whimsy to standard groomsmen getting-ready shots.
Photo Credit: B. Jones Photography
Say A Little Prayer For You
This tender photo gives us chills! Take a few minutes to have your loved ones gather around you while reciting a prayer.
Photo Credit: Loni Elizabeth Photography
Rings Through The Generations
Bling through the ages — enlist your grandma and mom for this generational photo idea.
Related: The Most Popular Wedding Photos
Photo Credit: Joshua McCoy Photography
Rings and All Other Accessories
Get your engagement ring professionally cleaned on the week of the wedding so that it looks spectacular in person and your photos.
Related: 75 of the Prettiest Engagement Rings
Photo Credit: Tonya Malay Photography
Sibling Love
Give your siblings one last hug before your walk down the aisle.
Photo Credit: Stephanie Hunter Photography
In Loving Memory
Keep a deceased relative or friend close to your heart on your big day with this touching photo idea. Displaying the frame in the foreground symbolizes that they're there for you in spirit.
Photo Credit: Sara Jayne Photography
Dapper Gents
Hilary Cam Photography captured the groom and his groomsmen kicking back, along with all of their outfits and accessories, in this artfully composed shot.
Photo Credit: Hilary Cam Photography
Coordinating Outfits
There's a good reason why so many brides gift their 'maids patterned robes or monogrammed button-downs — they look ultra-polished in photographs.
Photo Credit: Mioara Dragan Photography
Check Off The Last Item On Your List
Celebrate the fact that all of the planning is done with this adorable portrait idea.
Photo Credit: Snappy Shots by Bev
Your Gown in All Its Glory
Your photographer will take about 100 photos of your gown on the big day, and there's something especially magical about a still-life shot. When it's time to pick up your dress a few days before the wedding, take the garment bag off when you get home so that it has time to "breathe" and settle. (P.S. Ditch the plastic hanger that your gown comes with in favor for something sturdier and photogenic.)
Related: 10 Things Your Wedding Dress Consultant Wishes You Knew
Photo Credit: Clane Gessel Photography
Surrounded by the Bridesmaids
Prep for your big day in a beautiful, well-lit space with plenty of room for the number of people you intend to have with you while you're getting dressed. Keep it as uncluttered as possible so that your photographer doesn't have to worry about any distracting elements in the background.
Photo Credit: Ryan Ray Photography
Sentimental Details
Communicate with your photographer in advance about any meaningful objects that you'd like to have photographed. Whether it's an heirloom locket from your parents or a hidden "something blue," only you know the details that will make you smile!
Photo Credit: Smith Studios Photography
Close-Up of Your Dress
If you have small buttons on the back of your dress, consider getting a crochet hook at your local craft store to make buttoning them easier.
Photo Credit: E+E Photography
Boutonnières
If your groom, groomsmen, and both respective fathers are accessorizing with boutonnières, get a few close-ups of this oft-forgotten wedding detail.
Photo Credit: Studio 623 Photography
Invitation Suite (and Any Other Paper Items)
Assemble the full wedding invitation suite for your photographer in advance. Include details such as a shell, ribbon, or a sprig of rosemary for the perfect added touch.
Photo Credit: B. Jones Photography
Carrying The Train
Bridesmaids help their friend make the most important walk of her lifetime.
Photo Credit: Scarlett & Stephen
Cheers!
A toast to the bride — and those who helped make her day so special — is definitely in order.
Photo Credit: Chris Joriann Fine Photography
A Special Shout-Out
If a friend or family member can't attend your wedding — whether it's because they're elderly, ill, giving birth soon, etc. — show them that they were missed with a personalized sign. They'll be so moved that you took the time to give them a special shout-out!
Photo Credit: Julian Kanz Photography
Sips and Bites
Caffeine and light snacks are vital to helping keep everyone's energy up throughout the jam-packed day. This bride surprised her 'maids by having their favorite coffee beverage waiting for them when they arrived.
Photo Credit: Megan Edelman Photography
Surprise Snapshot for Mom and Dad
This bride took a heartfelt photo just for her mom and dad and surprised them with a framed version after the wedding.
Photo Credit: Jennifer Wilson Photography
Groom's and Bride's Gifts
If you and your groom plan on exchanging gifts on the morning of the wedding day, then those are definitely precious moments you'll want to get on film.
Photo Credit: Leoni Bolt Photography
60 Must-Have "Getting Ready" Photos
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May 9th
Photo Credits: Natalie Champa Jennings
Tip of the Day: For a fun and easy DIY project, make a pretty wedding card box that ties into the rest of your décor!
Throwing a vintage-inspired wedding? Decoupage a hat box with some of your favorite photos from that decade. Is your style more rustic? This wooden birdhouse by Etsy seller CleggFarmCreations is modeled after a real-life home, with the couple's last name and wedding date emblazoned on the front door. You can display it in your home after the big day as a special keepsake. One of our favorite ideas that works well for any theme is a card holder that mimics the couple's wedding cake design (pictured above and below for comparison).
One card box alternative that doesn't work as well: An open vintage suitcase with a note instructing guests to leave gifts or envelopes inside. That provides no security! Anyone can just walk into your wedding venue and pick up a handful of your wedding cards. Use vintage suitcases for other décor, instead.
Photo of the Day
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Why We Love It
Celebrate your newlywed bliss by jumping on the bed in your hotel room.
Photo of the Day
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Like Mother, Like Daughter: Then-and-Now Wedding Photos
In honor of Mother's Day, we're celebrating brides and the most important women in their lives with a wedding retrospective. From ways that Mom (and Grandma!) have influenced them to honoring them on their big day, these family stories demonstrate the powerful bond that a mother shares with her daughter.
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Rachel Capo, 25, got married on October 11, 2014, and her custom-made Birnbaum & Bullock gown perfectly reflected her wedding style: traditional with a trendy twist. "I knew I wanted a lace mermaid dress, and the shredded organza skirt had that unique factor I was looking for," she says.
Photo Credit: Brett Matthews Photography
Rachel's Mom
Rachel — the Fashion Advertising Manager at Bridal Guide — incorporated a lace sleeve from her mom's Eve of Milady wedding dress that she wore in 1983 into her all-white bouquet. Her younger sister plans to do the same with the remaining sleeve when she gets married someday.
"My mom is my best friend, and I don't know what I'd do without her. She gives me endless love and support — I'm so lucky to have her in my life!" Rachel says.
Photo courtesy of Rachel Capo
Stefania's Mom
Stefania's mother, Maria, wore an Eve of Milady gown with an illusion portrait neckline and cathedral-length train for her wedding in 1985.
When Stefania was a little girl, she would ask to watch her parents' wedding video on repeat and ask why she wasn't invited (she didn't realize she hadn't been born yet). In hindsight, that might have been the first sign that she would later become the Senior Web Producer of a bridal publication!
Photo courtesy of Stefania Sainato
Stefania
Stefania Sainato, 28, married her high school sweetheart on September 1, 2013 at the Regina Pacis Basilica in Brooklyn, New York, where her parents tied the knot 27 years earlier. "It was surreal,” the bride says. “Our joy was indescribable."
The bride wore a custom Ines Di Santo gown with a detailed sweetheart neckline and crystal-embellished sleeves. "I truly savored every part of the planning process but dress shopping with my mom at Bridal Reflections was my favorite part. Up until this point, getting married felt like a far-off dream, but when I tried on my gown and put a veil on, it was as if everything shifted into crystal-clear focus. I couldn’t help tearing up," the bride says.
Photo Credit: Josh Lynn Photography
Felicia
Felicia Elise Macchi, 31, wore a Mori Lee mermaid gown featuring a sweetheart neckline and V-shaped back to her nuptials on December 6, 2014. "It epitomized everything I loved about our wedding day: it was gorgeous and romantic with a touch of sparkle," she says. She accessorized it with a beaded belt.
Photo Credit: Brett Charles Rose Photography
Felicia's Mom
"My mom helped to shape how I give love and receive it, which has defined who I am. She has always been my constant," Felicia says.
Like her, she is passionate, loves karaoke and dancing, uses her hands a lot when she speaks and isn't embarrassed to scream the loudest for her siblings on the soccer field or after a theater performance.
Photo courtesy of Felicia Elise Macchi
Felicia's Mom
Felicia's mother, Patricia, eloped in 1978, and she and her husband threw a big wedding reception ten years later with family, friends, and their children to renew their vows. Her daughter was the flower girl at the festivities.
When it was Felicia's turn to get married, she honored her Mom by asking her to walk her down the aisle and give her away at the ceremony. She and her husband also presented their moms with long-stemmed white roses at the ceremony as a symbol of their gratitude and love.
Photo courtesy of Felicia Elise Macchi
Kristin
Kristin Walker O'Neill, 32, collaborated with her friend Sarah Lowry to design the gown that she wore to her wedding on September 6, 2014. "When I stepped into it, I felt as if I was celebrating everything that was unique about me," she says. The plunging backline and silhouette were dramatic and bold yet the Chantilly lace showcased her softer, romantic side.
Photo Credit: Dan and Melissa Photography
Kristin's Grandma
Originally, Kristin wanted to wear her grandmother Lura's wedding gown from the '40s but it was too small. The dress was handmade by a friend who was a professional seamstress — just like her granddaughter's dress, 73 years later! She paid $15 for the conservative, satin style, which was an extravagant sum at the time.
Kristin tells us that her mother and grandmother have molded her into the person that she is today. "I love both of them for allowing me to be my quirky self yet guiding me through life with their wisdom, kindness, and a dose of tough love when I needed it," she says. She's inherited their curiosity for life and passion for travel.
The best marriage advice she received from her mom was "You'll know when it feels right." "It never did before I met my husband, but now I know what she meant, and I thank her for that sentiment," Kristin says.
Photo courtesy of Kristin Walker O'Neill
Francesca and Her Mom
Francesca asked her Aunt Gabby to be her maid of honor, just like her mother did at her wedding. "One of my favorite photos from my Mom's wedding is a picture of her and Gabby kissing, and I wanted to recreate that photo for them," she says.
Photo credits (from top to bottom): Francesca Culp and Michael Anthony Photography
Francesca
Francesca's mother, Adrianna, immigrated to the U.S. from El Salvador when she was 11 years old because her sister Gabby needed to have surgery to fix a hole in her heart. In Latin America during the '70s, there weren't many opportunities for rehabilitation/schooling for children with disabilities — Gabby has Down's Syndrome — so her grandparents chose to stay in the states. Adrianna sacrificed her childhood to raise Gabby while her parents worked to put food on the table. Years later, when she gave birth to Francesca, they moved from Maryland to Los Angeles to help raise her daughter so that she could work and not have to pay for a sitter.
"I am grateful to not only my mother, but my grandparents and father as well, who have all sacrificed so many opportunities to allow me to succeed in life," Francesca says.
Photo Credit: Michael Anthony Photography
Francesca's Mom
Francesca's mother, Adrianna, tied the knot in 1986 wearing a JC Penney dress. "Of course, she looked gorgeous and rocked those lace sleeves!" her daughter says.
"One of the things I love most about her is how giving she is. Every since I was little, she's instilled in me not only the importance of counting our blessings but also serving those who are less fortunate," Francesca adds. For example, Adrianna runs reo bakpak, a company that donates school supplies to children's organizations in downtown Los Angeles.
Her marriage advice for her daughter was sweet and to the point: "Be good to him, and he'll be good to you!" Right now, Francesca's husband is stationed in Nebraska while she's finishing her clinical rotations as an occupational therapist in Los Angeles. "We can't wait to continue being newlyweds since we've been apart for almost our entire first year of marriage," she says.
Photo courtesy of Francesca Culp
Francesca
Francesca Culp, 25, is an only child, so her wedding was very special to her parents, especially her mom. She legally married her husband just two weeks after getting engaged since he's in the Air Force, and they wanted to make it official in case he ended up being deployed.
On September 5, 2014, they celebrated with a wedding reception in Nebraska, and the bride wore a La Sposa wedding gown for the momentous occasion. "I loved the mermaid fit, scalloped neckline, unique design at my waist, and that my dress was all lace. I was pretty comfortable in it despite the fact that it was very heavy," Francesca says.
Photo Credit: Michael Anthony Photography
Taylor
Taylor Elizabeth Morris-Metzger, 35, has always loved satin since she was just a child. Her grandmothers and mother would give her blankets or pajamas made from the fabric since she liked the way it felt on her skin.
So when the time came for her to get married on April 12, 2014, she stunned in a Kathy Ireland for Mon Cheri dress with a satin train. "I knew in my heart that it was The One," she says. Trying on her gown was the first time she truly felt like a bride.
Photo Credit: Pasha Belman Photography
Taylor's Mom
The best marriage advice that Taylor's mom gave her before she passed was to "Marry a man who loves women and treats them with respect, especially their Momma." She also encouraged her daughter to read The Hard Questions: 100 Questions to Ask Before You Say "I Do"
before getting married.
Photo courtesy of Taylor Morris-Metzger
Taylor
Taylor would confide in her mom, Billie, about anything and everything, and she never failed to make her laugh. Sadly, she passed away before she could see her daughter tie the knot: "I miss her more than I could ever express in words."
The bride placed an “In Memoriam” chair in the front row of the ceremony with photos of her and her late mother so that she could be there in spirit with the couple on their big day.
Photo Credit: Pasha Belman Photography
Chantale's Mom
Chantale's mother, Donna, got remarried in the 2000, and she was one of her bridesmaids. "There are no words to describe how lucky I am to have her in my life as she is a constant inspiration to me," she says.
Despite putting in long hours at the office, this hard-working businesswoman always manages to find the time to support everyone else. Chantale chose to honor her mom at her wedding by having her accompany her down the aisle, along with her father. "Since I was little, she has always supported my choices and encouraged me to follow my dreams, so who better to be by my side on this journey?" Chantale says.
Photo courtesy of Chantale Brady
Chantale
Chantale Brady, 31, felt "more beautiful and comfortable in my skin than I ever imagined possible" in her striped organza Hayley Paige gown. As soon as she tried on the dress, she couldn't wait to show her fiancé her more glamorous side at their wedding on August 23, 2014. (She typically wears hospital scrubs for work and jeans and a tank top when she's off-duty).
Photo Credit: Kandid Weddings Photography
Caroline
Caroline Teunis, 27, fell head-over-heels for her Wtoo ballgown from the moment she tried it on. "It was simple, classy, and beautiful, but it didn't take away from the person wearing it, either," she says. Bonus: It even had pockets! The bride said her "I dos" on August 8, 2014.
Photo Credit: Dan and Melissa Photography
Caroline's Mom
Caroline describes her mother, Gillian, as being quiet, shy, insanely smart, independent and wise. She's the type of person who will find something positive to say about everyone, even the people who deserve it the least. "I'd like to think she raised a kind, strong, smart, and loving daughter. Also, I'm pretty sure she passed her chocolate/dessert addiction down to me, too!" Caroline says.
Photo courtesy of Caroline Moering
Caroline
"My mom always taught me to believe in myself, stand up for myself and most importantly, she taught me what real love is leading by example. There’s no greater relationship than the one a child has with their mother. She's my mom, but she's my truest friend, too," Caroline says.
Photo courtesy of Caroline Moering
Allison
Allison Spoelhof, 26, chose a satin fit-and-fare gown by Kathy Ireland for Mon Cheri to marry her husband on September 27, 2014. It hit her figure in all the right places. The train was her favorite part: "I felt so sophisticated and glamorous as if I was in a wedding from the movies," she recalls.
She accessorized with the same bracelet that her mother wore at her wedding in 1983 at the University of Notre Dame, where she went to college. "The pictures always made it seem to me like she had been married in a fairy tale," Allison says.
Photo Credit: Dan and Melissa Photography
Allison's Mom
Allison tells us there is "no way I would have been able to get through my wedding day (or the planning) without my biggest cheerleader by my side" — her mother, Mary. She gave her the same advice about marriage that she had emphasized throughout her entire life: always be kind, do all you can for others and stay true to who you are.
Photo courtesy of Allison Spoelhof
Meagan
Meagan Ashley Simpson, 28, dared to be different at her April 26, 2014 wedding with a taupe trumpet gown by Sue Wong featuring passementerie trim and delicate beadwork. "My favorite part of my dress was the color. I wanted a style that wasn't white or ivory, as well as something with a vintage vibe," Meagan says.
Photo Credit: Dan and Melissa Photography
Meagan
Meagan and Linda Ann often get mistaken for sisters, and they even sound a lot alike. Her mom taught her the importance of communication, as well as how to be less stubborn (Meagan tells us she inherited that trait from her Dad!).
"Not only is she an amazing mother, but she's an incredible friend, and I am so thankful for our strong bond. She is one of the most patient and selfless people I have ever known," Meagan says.
Photo Credit: Dan and Melissa Photography
Meagan's Mom
Meagan's mom, Linda Ann, was a quintessential Southern Belle at her wedding on August 15, 1982. Crazy fact: Her hat and veil accidentally caught on fire during the candle-lighting portion of the Greek Orthodox ceremony but thankfully, she didn't get hurt!
"I took this wedding portrait of her (sans accessories) in 2009 as an anniversary gift for my dad," Meagan says.
Photo courtesy of Meagan Ashley Simpson
Stefania
Stefania took a sentimental snapshot holding her mother's bridal portrait.
"Abraham Lincoln put it best when he said, 'All that I am or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother,'" Stefania says. She is the first person that she wants to call when anything significant happens, happy or sad, and her guidance and enthusiasm for all of her daughter's endeavors is unparalleled. "I admire her ability to balance her marriage with work, friends, caring for her parents (my grandfather has Parkinson's Disease) and always being there for her kids, with Superwoman-like ease."
At her Sweet Sixteen, her mom gave a speech that she could achieve whatever she set her mind to, and the only limitations are the ones she placed on herself. Those words have served as a mantra throughout her entire life — and now that Stefania has her husband by her side, her mom believes that he is picking up where she left off.
Photo Credit: Josh Lynn Photography
Stefania
The bride also gave her mother and father thank-you gifts: an embroidered handkerchief that read “I will always be your little girl" and cufflinks that said “I loved her first.” "There is nothing I could ever do to repay the love, support and guidance that my parents have given me throughout all these years," Stefania says.
Photo Credit: Josh Lynn Photography
Melissa
Melissa Mirgaine, 32, tied the knot on July 26, 2014, wearing a fit-and-flare gown by Allure Couture featuring lace appliqués. "I loved my gown; I wanted a long train and lots of sparkles, and when I tried it on, I knew it would complement my country-chic wedding theme," Melissa says.
Photo Credit: Elmer Escobar Photography
Melissa
Melissa and her husband got married in Little Rock, Arkansas, and their families flew all the way from France (where they currently reside) for the ceremony, including her mom, Annie.
On the morning of the wedding, Annie sewed her gold baptism pendant into her daughter's wedding gown corset so that she would be close to her heart as she walked down the aisle.
Photo Credit: Elmer Escobar Photography
Amy
When Amy Schweitzer, 39, got married on June 2, 2013, not only did she feel like the "prettiest girl at the ball" but she recalls "smiling for the entire day!" She wore a sleeveless fit-and-flare gown by Paloma Blanca. "It accentuated my curves, and the crystal belt added just the right amount of sparkle and elegance without being too dramatic," Amy, BG's Senior Digital Marketing Director, says.
Photo Credit: Anna Rozenblat Photography
Amy's Mom
Amy's mother, Marilyn, and father, Howard, have been married for over 50 years; here, they're pictured on their wedding day (June 25, 1961). "I have learned so much just from watching their relationship and seeing how they are still so in love. That it's important to be best friends and advocates, and to see each other as life partners," Amy says.
Her mom also passed down her sense of intuition, ability to be tough in a crisis, passion for learning, and stubbornness (which comes in handy sometimes). In fact, the pair are so close "I love that we often know what the other is feeling and thinking without having to say a word!"
Photo courtesy of Amy Schweitzer
Jennifer
Jennifer Ash Barak, 42, got married nearly 13 years ago, but she still remembers how she felt wearing her satin and tulle Oleg Cassini dress. "At least once in your life, you should be able to dress up like a princess and have all eyes on you in excitement for the occasion. Yes, things might have gone wrong, but at the end of the day, I was married, and it was surreal," she says. Jennifer loved that the gown was within her mother's price range, as it meant a lot to her to buy it for her daughter.
The bride accessorized with pearl earrings that had been passed down throughout the generations.
Photo courtesy of Jennifer Ash Barak
Jennifer's Mom
An elegant sense of style runs in the family: Jennifer's mother, Candybeth, walked down the aisle in 1968 wearing a crepe sheath with beaded trim.
"My mother's ability to be strong in any situation is the trait I love the most about her. I've inherited her frugal side, and even though I am successful, I still look for what is going to make me happy that will also leave a little change in my pocket," Jennifer says.
She also credits her mom with teaching her the value of being true to herself, not sweating the small stuff and spending alone time with her husband.
Photo courtesy of Jen Barak
Stefania
A satin and lace sleeve from Stefania's mother’s wedding dress served as a bouquet wrap, complete with crystal buttons.
Photo Credit: Josh Lynn Photography
Leah
Leah Marie Smith, 30, channeled Beyoncé at her August 2, 2014 wedding in a glamorous trumpet-style Alfred Angelo gown with Swarovski crystals around the necklace and waist, and a lace-up back. "My seamstress added the belt at the last minute, and it made the dress even more fantastic!" she says.
Photo Credit: Clivabeth Photography
Leah
The most valuable marriage lesson that Leah's mom passed down to her is to love unconditionally and be patient; this advice will certainly come in handy as her daughter prepares for the next chapter of her life: parenthood. Leah is expecting her first child, a son, in August of 2015.
Photo Credit: Clivabeth Photography
Dana
Dana Aschman Barry, 27, got married in a Disney-themed celebration on June 21, 2014. When she discovered her Martina Liana dress, the moment was even more magical than she had anticipated: "I couldn't stop turning and staring at myself in the mirror! I felt elegant and sophisticated just like the city of Charleston (where we tied the knot). I knew it was the one for me." The modified A-line gown featured lace straps and a keyhole back with buttons. The bride added a beige sash to make the dress "pop."
Photo Credit: Rick Dean Photography
Dana's Mom
Dana and her mother, Kimberly, had very different wedding styles; she still teases her about the hat that she wore to her big day in 1987. Her father's fraternity brothers performed a special dance at the reception that culminated with mooning all of the guests! They couldn't have anticipated that decades later, choreographed surprise wedding dances would become mainstream on YouTube.
In addition to inheriting her mother's blonde hair and brown eyes, Dana tells us they're both social butterflies, and when it comes to planning trips or vacations, they handle all of the coordinating. Growing up, Dana's father often had to travel for work, and her mom juggled caring for three kids and studying for her real estate licensing exam. "She loves and supports us kids wholeheartedly in anything that we do. This model of strength and independence has helped me become the woman that I am today," Dana says.
The best marriage advice she received? "Never go to bed angry!"
Photo courtesy of Dana Aschman Barry
Molly
Molly Garbe, 28, wed in Tucson, Arizona on March 7, 2015 in a Shareen Bridal dress that was elegant and timeless yet edgy and comfortable, all in one. The silk taffeta, A-line style featured a plunging neckline, thin straps, and an open back. "I felt like a princess ready to dance the night away under the full moon. I'm hoping to wear it again!" Molly says.
Photo Credit: Shannon Sanders Photography
Molly's Sister, Megan
Molly's 26-year-old sister, Megan Padden, shares her boho-chic style; she got married the previous year on October 4th, wearing a Sarah Seven wedding dress with a lace corset bodice and an organza skirt. "I felt like a beautiful goddess!" Megan says.
In a creative twist, she accessorized with her mom's wedding necklace, which she styled as a belt. That wasn't the only similarity — Megan and her mom both married at venues in Connecticut that had wishing wells. "I knew we picked the right place to get married when I saw the wishing well, which I interpreted to be a sign of good luck," the bride says.
Photo Credit: David Schrager Photography
Molly and Megan's Mom
Molly and Megan's mother, Mary, was involved in the wedding planning process for both sisters; she offered her input and advice and accompanied them to appointments, including dress fittings. "She has the deepest faith in the ones she loves, and I wouldn't have gotten through my wedding day without her," Molly says. "I like to think I inherited her positive outlook on life!"
"She has so much love and compassion in her heart, and I can only hope to be as amazing as she is one day," Megan adds.
Photo courtesy of Molly Garbe Brown
Eriko
The best relationship advice that Tomoko gave her daughter and son-in-law is to respect each other's differences. "Marriage involves two people who come from different experiences, traditions, and lineages that go a long way back. It's impossible for two people always to see eye-to-eye so differences in opinion will come up," Eriko says.
Growing into better individuals through being with and cherishing your partner is what makes marriage wonderful.
Photo Credit: Kevin Kelley Photography
Eriko's Mom
Eriko's mother, Tomoko, wed in Japan in 1984. She wore a white wedding dress for part of her ceremony before switching to a traditional Japanese kimono.
"I would have loved to do that, too, but it seemed like a lot of work! Instead, I decided to incorporate as many Japanese decorative pieces and traditions as I could," Eriko says. Her mother hand-made origami cranes to accompany her daughter's seating cards and guests' place settings. With her mom's creative help, the bride also incorporated paper parasols and fans, as well as a Japanese sake-tasting tradition into the ceremony.
Photo courtesy of Eriko Dunn
Eriko's Mom
Despite living 14 hours away from one another, Eriko says her mother continues to be "my role model and rock." She tells us that throughout her childhood, she thought she was the most beautiful and intelligent person in the world, and as an adult, her opinion remains the same!
"She loves to smile, laugh and experience joy with all of her heart. I like to think I inherited this trait from her," Eriko says. She also values her everlasting patience, deep intellect, keen insight, and ability to make everyone feel cherished in her presence.
Photo courtesy of Eriko Dunn
Eriko
Eriko Dunn, 30, selected a lace, fit-and-flare La Sposa wedding gown for her wedding on September 6, 2014. "I loved how it was soft and romantic, elegant, and unique all at the same time," she says. She accessorized with a bolero by Rosa Clará for the ceremony for a more conservative, formal look, which she later removed for the reception portion.
Photo Credit: Kevin Kelley Photography
Taylor
Taylor carried a peony and rose bouquet with white ostrich feathers, in remembrance of her late mother. "After my grandmother had passed, she would always tell me that if I saw a feather, I would know that she was nearby watching over me. Feathers have had a special significance for me ever since," the bride reveals.
Photo Credit: Pasha Belman Photography
Leah's Mom
Leah and her husband chose the same colors that her parents had at their wedding: the bridesmaids wore light blush pink dresses, and the groomsmen donned gray tuxedos.
"My 60-year-old mom, Stacy, is the epitome of class and grace, with a heart of gold. She has taught me so much about life and love, and I feel more than prepared to take this journey with my wonderful husband," Leah says.
Polina
Polina Vadeika, 23, got married on May 28, 2014, in Pawley's Island, South Carolina. Her wedding was incredibly intimate, with 10 of her nearest and dearest in attendance, including her family from Russia and her husband's family from Lithuania. The bride helped design her wedding dress, which was made in Europe and featured a tulle overskirt and strapless bodice.
Erin
Erin Evelyn Sorg, 25, got married on January 3, 2015, and her vintage-inspired dress, fully beaded from top to bottom, was fit for a Downton Abbey bride. Her favorite part was witnessing her loved ones' reactions to the gown. "I'll never forget the breathless gasp of joy from my bridesmaids, the tears on my mother's face, or my husband exclaiming 'Oh my God!' when we did our first look," she says.
She accessorized with her mother's pearls; when she was a little girl, she would dress up in them and say "Someday I'm going to wear these pearls when I get married, just like Mommy."
Photo Credit: Joel and Amber Photography
Erin
In addition to a great sense of humor, Erin loves her mom's fiery, loyal side, even though they occasionally butt heads. "I can come to her for anything, and her loyalty, love and support gives me the hope and determination to do what I need to do. She's the one who shines light in the dark places that I face," she explains.
Photo Credit: Joel and Amber Photography
Erin
Erin and her mom shared a mother-daughter dance to their favorite song at the wedding: "Best Day" by Taylor Swift.
Photo Credit: Joel and Amber Photography
Erin's Mom
Erin's mom, Paula Jane, 46, tied the knot in 1988. The videographer was standing so far to the right that her dad's best man was blocking his view during the ceremony, so all of you can see on their wedding video was her dad's nose. "My parents always joke that it looks like my mother was marrying my dad's nose in their video!" Erin says.
Photo courtesy of Erin Evelyn Sorg
Pepa
Pepa Casselman, 33, is a self-professed jeans and t-shirt kind of girl, but she pulled out all the stops with her glamorous Maggie Sottero sheath at her wedding on August 23, 2014. Not only was it appropriate for her barn venue but the straps allowed her to be comfortable while dancing and the beading shimmered in the nighttime. "I just loved it. It kills me that I have it stored in a closet, and I can't enjoy it every day!" Pepa says.
Photo Credit: Dan and Melissa Photography
Pepa
"I really love this getting-ready shot because it was like having both of my moms there with me," Pepa explains.
Photo Credit: Dan and Melissa Photography
Pepa
Pepa and her husband honored all of their grandparents, parents, and even aunts and uncles by displaying their wedding photos at their big day. The bride also put her grandmother's wedding dress on display. "I couldn't imagine getting married without her there in spirit to wish me the best of luck," Pepa says. She believes that her grandma would have adored her husband because he is warm and friendly, just like her grandpa was.
"If I learned anything from her, it was to marry the man that you truly love, and I can honestly say that I did," she adds.
Photo Credit: Dan and Melissa Photography
Like Mother, Like Daughter: Then-and-Now Wedding Photos
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Run for the Roses: Kentucky Derby Wedding Inspiration
The Kentucky Derby takes place on May 7th — in celebration, check out creative wedding ideas inspired by the most exciting two minutes in sports!
When Pigs Fly Events put together a wedding inspiration shoot that's filled with equine accents, and a special dose of Southern charm. Event planner Courtney Stone walks us through how any bride can achieve this chic and timeless look.
May 6th
Photo Credits: Belle Momenti
Tip of the Day: Don't make the mistake of going alone to your hair and makeup trial! Bring along a friend to snap lots of photos of your "before," "during," and "after" stage from different angles. Not only do they make for fun keepsakes, but you can also get your friend's input in case you're not sure what changes you want to make to your hairstyle or lipstick.
Also, you probably already know that it's important to bring inspiration photos, but it's also just as crucial to tell your makeup artist or hairstylist what you don't like, so that they know what to avoid. For example, instead of just asking for a braided updo, be as specific as possible and explain that you're not a fan of tightly-gathered braids, and you want something a little looser and more romantic.
Plus, check out The Bride's Guide to Beauty Treatments.
Photo of the Day
Photo Credit:
Why We Love It
We love how the bride's veil flows in this gorgeous photo!
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