I never once though throughout my planning process to submit my own wedding for publication or feature. I planned our wedding by incorporating the things that were important to me and my husband, and to complement our style. And, the amazing part about it all, is that when the wedding day come and went, I remembered every single detail. So much so, that every time I look at photos, the memories are so vivid in my mind. Like I am back at that September day.
After the wedding, I sat on sharing it anywhere (including Weddingbee) for a number of reasons. But, mostly because I kept weighing the decision of whether or not to submit it anywhere. Was there a fear of rejection? Maybe a little. But I also wasn’t ready to share it just yet. I wanted to keep it to myself just a little longer. After having experienced some of the best weddings this year with my clients, the bug bit me to submit it somewhere. Anywhere. I was ready to share. Ready to share the fun we had. Ready to share the love. Ready to share the color. And, much to my surprise, the wonderful ladies at Style Me Pretty were thrilled to share it with you all. Today, you can catch a glimpse into my planning process, and share so much of what I share (and encourage) with my clients and you, my readers, on a regular basis. I cannot begin to tell you how full my heart is to share this with you all, and how full my heart is at just reliving my wedding day. All over.

Even if you aren’t going for that “candy shoppe” feel for your wedding, you can incorporate the fun candy throughout your day in subtle ways.
Fill trays with gumballs to hold up escort cards.


Or, place them in the bottom of vases and hurricanes as a base for pillar candles.

Images courtesy of Jennifer Daigle Photography via Style Me Pretty
So, you’re busy planning away. You have come up with a good idea. One that is “outside the box.” One that will wow your guests. One that makes your wedding unique.
But, then someone crushes your dreams with one little comment: “You can’t do that.”
To all of the naysayers, the bridesmaids, the groomsmen, the moms and dads, the grandparents who tell you brides and grooms that your idea is “breaking wedding tradition,” tell them this:
There are no rules. Traditions are what are important to you. Not what everyone else is doing.
This means:
Brides can wear a colored veil (or no veil at all for that matter).

Image courtesy of Trent Bailey Photography via Wedding Chicks
Dogs can tag along at the ceremony.

Image courtesy of Gomez Photography via Wedding Chicks
Groomsmen don’t have to wear a tux.

Images courtesy of Dreamtime Images via Style Me Pretty
Your cake icing can be colored and not white. You can see the groom (or bride) before the ceremony. You don’t have to have the same number of bridesmaids and groomsmen. Your bridesmaids can each wear a different dress. Hell, you don’t even have to have a wedding party.
Just remember: Make your wedding what you want to. After all, it is your wedding. I understand your parents may be helping to pay, but at the end of the day it’s your wedding, not theirs. Add the details that are personal. Stop worrying what everyone else will think. Forget about what is “in” and “hot.” Make it what you (and your significant other) want. And most importantly, you don’t have to follow the rules.
I always love when I can find a creative decor idea from a couple. Sometimes we all get caught up in the idea of just using flowers (which there is absolutely nothing wrong with).
This particular couple hung about 40 different glass ornaments above the table. In the dim holiday light, over candles, they really sparkle, and add an element of wonder to the celebration.


Images courtesy of Anna Sawin Photography via Style Me Pretty
The takeaway? Don’t forget that you can hang things over tables, too!