Worldwide Wednesdays - From Russia with Color

I came across images from Nelly Suleymanova, a Russian photographer,  a few weeks ago via Rock 'n Roll Bride, and loved the colors from one of her shoots. As spring is in the air with the flowers in bloom, I thought it was the perfect time for a colorful Russian inspired board. Doesn't it make you smile? 

First Row: Nelly Suleymanova,  Erin HeartsCourt/ Second Row:  Elizabeth Messina, Nelly Suleymanova / Third Row: shoe image by Hannah Bergman, Abby Jiu Photography via The Bride's Cafe, Russian Kefir yoghurt via Fine Little Day

Kerry and Josh Engaged! Mary Kate McKenna Photography

We work with some amazingly creative couples every day, and Kerry and Josh really raise the bar. We've been working with this cute pair to plan their wedding at the eclectic Hotel Monaco in Old Town, Alexandria. Kerry handmade all the invitations, runners, and even ordered custom made pottery for the centerpieces. The couple selected Mary Kate McKenna Photography to capture every little detail of their wedding day and it's easy to see why.  Here are some of the fun images from their engagement shoot. I'm always a sucker for dogs.   

Mimi and Harry Engaged! Julie Lim Photography

I love when I'm inspired by my clients and today was one of those days.  This morning I received images in my inbox from one of my favorite clients this year, Mimi and Harry, who are getting married right around the corner, on May 1st.  My jaw dropped when I saw the gorgeousness of their engagement shoot with Julie Lim Photography, a friend of Mimi's who is a relatively new photographer in the DC area. The styling and makeup was done by Janet and Michelle Kim and they did an amazing job. I can't tell you how excited I am for their wedding.  Love is in the air! 

Worldwide Wednesdays - A Day in Mexico City

Below are some images from a day I spent in Mexico City. I started with a tour of The Bellas Artes Palace and then Chapultepec Castle with amazing outdoor marbled terraces and gardens perfect for a jaw dropping event. Then it was refreshments at the Four Seasons Mexico in their outdoor courtyard. They had simple but dramatic arrangements of deep red rose bouquets throughout the hotel. I loved the berry ice tea with a personal serving of simple syrup to sweeten the drink to my liking and the girls couldn't resist a selection of desserts for our late afternoon sugar kick. I'm definitely going to use the individual simple syrup idea in the future.  At night, as we walked back to our hotel the architecture of many of the central districts buildings were illuminated to enhance their grandeur. I always say how important lighting is, it really sets a wonderful mood.  The red, white, and green of Mexico's flag seemed to pop up everywhere with hints of gold. A very traditional and elegant color combination. 

Worldwide Wednesdays - Las Mananitas - Cuernavaca Mexico

I just returned from an amazing trip tip Mexico City, Cuernavaca, and the cutest town of Taxco. If you love culture, friendly people, and great food, I recommend all of the above, but personally would have loved to spend a little more time in Cuernavaca and Taxco. 


During my time in Cuernavaca I had the pleasure if enjoying a few cocktails and dinner at Las Mananitas Hotel Garden & Spa.  This place is amazing with peacocks strolling the grounds and lush private gardens. It would be perfect for an outdoor cultural inspired destination wedding. I also fell in love with their  tortilla soup and can't wait until I return in the future.  Below are some images from the hotel and my own images of the striking birds that call Las Mananitas home. 

Worldwide Wednesdays - Ruby and Willow - New Zealand

Sorry for the late post, but this weeks been super busy before my trip. 


I personally am always inspired by Amy Butler fabrics and rugs.  Since her rugs are made from 100% New Zealand wool I thought it was perfect to pair some of the amazing rugs with invitations from the New Zealand invitation designer Kate Holland at Ruby & Willow that have the same feel.   I came across Ruby & Willow Invitations a while ago, and loved their designs. They are located in New Zealand, but work with brides worldwide, and even have an etsy store right here. 


For my brides who are having trouble finding a color pallet that speaks to them, I always recommend looking for pillows, rugs, decor, art, and personal objects that they love and pulling their inspiration from there.