The Knot Spring 2021

WEDDINGS

SPRING 2021

HIRING AN INCLUSIVE P R O S Q UA D SUPPORTING A C AU S E W I T H YO U R R E G I S T RY S P RING 2 0 2 1

P L U S

INSPO FOR C E L E B R AT I N G S U S TA I N A B LY

DIY BEAUTY

Andrea’s wearing one of her own designs from her 2021 collection

P A N T O R A

B R I D A L ’ S

A HOW-TO G UID E FO R LO OKIN G YO UR B EST ( E V E N O N ZO O M )

$9.99 US/$14.99 CAN THEKNOT.COM

WE NEED TO SHOW AS MUCH B LAC K LOV E , BL ACK B ODY ACCEPTANCE AND BLACK JOY AS P O S S I B LE .

Spring 2021 Display Until April 25, 2021

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justinalexander.com

CREATE A HOME THAT TELLS YOUR STORY

Make Pottery Barn a part of your next chapter with crafted-to-last furniture, sustainably sourced bedding and more. Plus, complete your registry with items from Williams Sonoma and west elm, all in one place.

GET STARTED AT POTTERYBARN.COM/REGISTRY

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At Beaches protecting you and your family is our top priority and, we’re taking every step to make sure your wedding is free of worries and filled with love. In addition to our Platinum Protocol of Cleanliness, here are the steps we’re taking:

O D S E RVI

SHARE THE SPECIAL DAY VIRTUALLY

REDUCED VENUE CAPACITY

TABLE SEATING & FOOD SERVICE

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For a limited time, Beaches is offering complimentary* single camera video streaming wedding ceremonies so that brides and grooms can still share their wedding with those unable to travel at this time.

We’ve reduced the capacity of all our venues, indoors and out,putting more physical distance between wedding guests.

Rather than tables set for eight people, the same sized tables will only seat six guests. We’ve eliminated buffets and specialty food stations to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. Plated dinners and all hors d’ouvres will be served by Beaches staff.

To per for cho ap kits

R AFTER

Free*Tropical Wedding di with a 3-Night Stay or longer Beaches® Free* Tropical Wedding Includes: • CEREMONY • BOUQUET & BOUTONNIÈRE • RECEPTION DÉCOR • WEDDING CAKE

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The wedding of your dreams awaits at Beaches Resorts, because we leave nothing to chance on your special day or the honeymoon that follows. With our Platinum Protocol of Cleanliness, you can begin your happily-ever-after with the peace of mind of knowing that your health and safety are our top priority. While you create a thousand worry-free moments, we take care of the rest. And when you don’t have to worry about a thing, every moment becomes a celebration of love.

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Begins Here.

You can have a

JUST FOR ME

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PERSONAL USE MAKEUP KITS To ensure no cross-contamination, personal use makeup kits will be used for all brides and bridal parties who choose Red Lane® Spa to help them get a picture-perfect look. These makeup kits can be taken home afterwards*.

Voted World’s Best 23 Years in a Row At the World Travel Awards

BEACHES.COM/WEDDINGS • 1-877-BEACHES Or Call Your Travel Advisor JAMAICA • TURKS & CAICOS @ beachesresortsweddings *Visit www.beaches.com/disclaimers/theknotspr2021 or call 1-800-BEACHES for important terms and conditions. Beaches® is a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc. is an affiliate of Unique Travel Corp., the worldwide representative of Beaches Resorts.

CONTENTS

new YEAR, new I DOS F E AT U R E S 42

THE POWER OF PANTOR A Designer Andrea Pitter speaks on the need for representation in every industry, weddings included.

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FLAIR FOR FRINGE Cover star Andrea Pitter brings drama to every detail she designs for her wedding dress company, Pantora Bridal.

Jumpsuit in sizes up to XXXL, $169, PantoraBridal.com

21 THINGS WE’RE LOVING RIGHT NOW

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From to-go cocktails to the nanomoon, our fave of-the-moment ideas.

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PLANNING WITH PURPOSE Tips on putting your values front and center when wedding planning.

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LARGER THAN LIFE This year’s most coveted wedding dresses are all about daring details.

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ABROAD AT HOME

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THE POWER OF PANTORA

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ANDRE L. PERRY

Visit these globally inspired spots without bidding adieu to the US.

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CONTENTS

SPRING 2021 20 128 REAL LOVE 91

62

I N E V E RY I S S U E 24 26 28 34 36 38 40 49 14 4

FA S H I O N + B E AU T Y 55

RUNWAY REPORT The hottest ruffles, slip dresses, puff sleeves and more from Bridal Fashion Week.

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THE RING LEADERS These sparklers are bold, beautiful and anything but expected.

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MENSWEAR MYTHS

REAL WEDDINGS Get inspo from these couples’ one-of-a-kind celebrations.

EDITOR’S LETTER CONTRIBUTORS TOOLS ADVICE ESSAY TR ADITIONS MINIMONY NEW + NOW LAST LOOK

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Six suiting rules grooms can totally break.

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DIY BEAUTY Need-to-know steps for acing your own makeup.

STYLE + PLANNING 71

THE NEW I DO Celebrate safely without sacrificing style.

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IN BLOOM Bring the outdoors in with a bloom-filled fête.

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THE 6 MOST REGISTERED ITEMS Winning picks for your wedding wish list.

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ON THE COVER Wedding dress in any size, $4,000, PantoraBridal.com PHOTOGRAPHER Andre L. Perry FASHION STYLING Shelley Brown PROP STYLING Kerry Reardon at raybrownpro.com HAIR + MAKEUP Gregg Hubbard for MAC and Kérastase

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY OF VENDOR (2); KIHMBERLIE; LARISSA CLEVELAND; GETTY IMAGES; COURTESY OF VENDOR; ANDRE L. PERRY; LYNETTE BOYLE PHOTOGRAPHY; COURTESY OF VENDOR

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E D ITO R IN CHIE F

Kristen Maxwell Cooper

E XECUTIVE E D ITO R

CRE ATIVE D IREC TO R

Lauren Kay

Sarah Evans

S E NI O R FA S HI O N & B E AUT Y E D ITO R E D ITO R , RE AL WE D D IN G S VI S UAL S E D ITO R D E S I G NE R CO NTRIB UTIN G CO PY E D ITO R CONTRIBUTING RE S E ARCH E D ITO R CONTRIBUTING PRO D U C TI O N A S S O CIATE

Shelley Brown Hannah Nowack Kelsey Pillischer Emma Gray Pitt Rebecca Dalzell Keith Bearden Sharon Harvey

THE K N OT.CO M , S O CIAL M E D IA & VID EO D IREC TO R , D I G ITAL CO NTE NT S E NI O R E D ITO R , D I G ITAL S E NI O R NE WS E D ITO R S E NI O R MANAG E R , D I G ITAL CO NTE NT S TR ATEGY E D ITO R , E - CO M M E RCE A S S O CIATE E D ITO R , D I G ITAL A S S I S TANT E D ITO RS , D I G ITAL A S S I S TANT E D ITO RS , E - CO M M E RCE D IREC TO R , S O CIAL M E D IA MANAG E R , S O CIAL M E D IA INFLU E N CE R MANAG E R , S O CIAL M E D IA CO MM U NIT Y E DITO R , SO CIAL ME DIA CO O RD INATO R , S O CIAL M E D IA S E NI O R MANAG E R , VID EO PRO D U C TI O N VID EO PRO D U CE R VID EO E D ITO R A S S O CIATE VID EO PRO D U CE R A S S O CIATE D I G ITAL E D ITO R , PH OTO VID EO PRO D U C TI O N A S S O CIATE

Morgan Gibson Kim Forrest Esther Lee MaryKate Callahan Emily Platt Samantha Iacia Sarah Hanlon, Maddy Sims Naoimh O’Hare Whitney Little Sarah Hooper Heather Kon Louis Baragona Lucy Ferut Daniela Kelley McInerney Siobhan Carty Leslie Grill Olivia DiTomaso Jessica Kane Raul Ferrari

G LO BAL M E D IA S O LUTI O N S @ THE K N OT WO RLDWID E G E NE R AL MANAG E R , G LO BAL M E D IA S O LUTI O N S D IREC TO R , RE VE N U E O PE R ATI O N S & YIE LD A S S O CIATE D IREC TO R , RE VE N U E O PE R ATI O N S ANALYS T, RE VE N U E O PE R ATI O N S

VP, AD SALE S B RIDAL FA S HI O N ACCO U NT D IREC TO R ACCO U NT D IREC TO RS , E A S T ACCO U NT E XECUTIVE S , E A S T

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ACCO U NT D IREC TO R , PACIFI C ACCO U NT E XECUTIVE , WE S T ACCO U NT D IREC TO R , M IDWE S T ACCO U NT E XECUTIVE , M IDWE S T E D ITO RIAL D IREC TO R E XECUTIVE PRO D U CE R D IREC TO R , SALE S D E VE LO PM E NT MARK ETIN G D E PUT Y E D ITO R S E NI O R E D ITO R S E NI O R MANAG E R , CRE ATIVE MARK ETIN G S O LUTI O N S SALE S MARK ETIN G A S S O CIATE MANAG E R A S S I S TANT MANAG IN G E D ITO R S E NI O R D E S I G N E R S O CIAL M E D IA E D ITO R S PECIALI S T, PRO D U CE R D IREC TO R , ACCO U NT MANAG E M E NT S E NI O R MANAG E R , ACCO U NT MANAG E M E NT ACCO U NT MANAG E RS

ACCO U NT CO O RD INATO RS

S E NI O R D IREC TO R , S E NI O R MANAG E R , MANAG E R , S PECIALI S T,

PU B LI C PU B LI C PU B LI C PU B LI C

RE L ATI O N S RE L ATI O N S RE L ATI O N S RE L ATI O N S

& & & &

B R AND B R AND B R AND B R AND

MARK ETIN G MARK ETIN G MARK ETIN G MARK ETIN G

Nicole Aste, naste@theknotww.com Dominique Walker, dwalker@theknotww.com Jenna Bruno, jbruno@theknotww.com Nicholas Saracione, nsaracione@theknotww.com Risa Aronson, raronson@theknotww.com Brett Olsen, bolsen@theknotww.com Erin Keleher, ekeleher@theknotww.com Cara Goldberg, cgoldberg@theknotww.com Danielle Papalambros, dpapalambros@theknotww.com Bryan McCarthy, bmccarthy@theknotww.com Debbie Konstadt, dkonstadt@theknotww.com Karen Argow, kargow@theknotww.com Debbie Lucas, dlucas@theknotww.com Laura Adrian, ladrian@theknotww.com Leslie Chapin, lchapin@theknotww.com Elizabeth Roehrig Joanna Dedvukaj Priya Junnarkar Kate Traverson Cassie Kreitner Jessica Bendes Jolie Klein Kelsey Paine Amanda Kocis Gallagher Heather Finn Claire Flanagan Nicole Vogel, nvogel@theknotww.com Courtney Carlesimo, ccarlesimo@theknotww.com Sarah Lurie, slurie@theknotww.com Brooke Morgan, bmorgan@theknotww.com Amanda Romagnoli, aromagnoli@theknotww.com Jessica Van Alphen, jvanalphen@theknotww.com Victoria Cavallacci, vcavallacci@theknotww.com Kayla Williams, kawilliams@theknotww.com Alaina DiVerniero, adiverniero@theknotww.com Isabella Falcone, afalcone@theknotww.com Melissa Bach, pr@theknotww.com Stephanie Colpo, pr@theknotww.com Lauren LaBelle, pr@theknotww.com Emilie Berman, pr@theknotww.com

PU B LI S HE D BY XO G RO U P IN C .

195 Broadway, NY, NY 10007 Phone (212) 219-8555 Fax (212) 219-1929 TheKnot.com

The Knot weddings magazine © 2020 XO Group Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or in part, is forbidden without written permission from the publisher. The Knot, TheKnot.com and The Knot weddings magazine are trademarks of XO Group Inc. The Knot is not responsible for the return or loss of, or damage to, unsolicited materials. Those submitting manuscripts, photographs, artwork and other materials for consideration should not send originals, unless specifically requested to do so in writing by The Knot. Manuscripts, artwork and other materials must be accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

FEELING HOPEFUL

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BOLD HUES After a drab year, a riot of color seems to be just what the doctor ordered.

21 THINGS WE’RE LOVING

’m entering this new year filled with hope. If 2020 taught me anything, it’s that despite feeling like bad news was waiting around every corner, so were glimmers of hope—whether that be a promising vaccine, a chance to grow as a country or a new addition to my sweet family (baby No. 2 arrives in Feb!). When it comes to weddings, I’m particularly hopeful that couples will be able to bring the wedding they’ve been imagining to life—whatever that looks like.

While we’d be naive to think they’ll magically return to pre-COVID normal, the industry continues to find creative and innovative ways to be safe and beautiful—and get us a step closer to “normal.” So whether you’re newly engaged or a self-proclaimed “COVID couple,” I think you’ll find the pages of this issue helpful, inspiring and, most importantly, hopeful.

Bring on the new year—and with it, new wedding trends.

Here are the ideas I can’t wait to see at 2021 nuptials.

WELCOME BOX It may be a simple twist on the classic welcome bag, but it has an extra-special feel.

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GRAB + GO BAR A delicious cocktail and no waiting in line at the bar? Sounds like a win-win to me.

KRISTEN MAXWELL COOPER Editor in Chief @kristenmax kristen@theknot.com

A L L A B O U T A L LYS H I P

PLANNING WITH PURPOSE At The Knot, we believe that supporting Black and other underrepresented groups in the wedding industry is important, and we know it is for you too. That’s why we’re making it easier for couples to make intentional hiring decisions by introducing new filters that will identify specific types of pros and businesses in our vendor marketplace, including Black-owned, Asian-owned, LGBTQ+-owned and more.

T H E K N OT ' S B E S T O F W E D D I N G S

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Check out our annual list of the most-loved pros chosen by couples just like you! TheKnot.com/bow

W H Y W E L OV E

ANDREA PITTER The dress designer and New York City bridal salon owner is a force to be reckoned with in the wedding industry—and it’s not just because her dresses are beautiful.

Pitter takes it a meaningful step further, advocating for representation and inclusion of Black couples and pros. Read her insightful and powerful interview on page 42.

FROM TOP: COURTESY OF VENDOR; ELIZABETH BURGI PHOTOGRAPHY; SARAH LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY; EMILY WREN PHOTOGRAPHY; COURTESY OF VENDOR; ANDRE L. PERRY

C O O R D I N AT E D DRESS CODE Get your guests in on the fun by requesting a color palette in addition to a formality.

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CONTRIBUTORS

A N D R E L . P E R RY PHOTOGRAPHER C O V E R + T H E P O W E R O F P A N T O R A P. 4 2

Sneak peek!

The photo shoot crew previews Andre’s snaps in real time.

WH AT IS O N E TH IN G YO U WISH AL L CO UPL ES KN EW AH EA D OF THE IR WEDDIN G DAY? It is best to present your truest self and not a version of yourself that’s based on how you think you should look or act. In my experience, couples often tend to portray themselves in a way they think looks best on camera, instead of being fully present in the moment. Focus on your partner and the love you share. That affection will translate into the camera effortlessly, creating stunning wedding portraits. I believe confidence and honesty bring authenticity to photos in a way nothing else can. @perrylperry

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS We asked some of the pros from this issue for the inside scoop on their areas of expertise.

GREGG HUBBARD HAIR + MAKEUP ARTIST WH AT ARE Y OU R B E ST TIP S FO R L O N G-WE A R MA KE U P THA T CAN WITH STAN D M A SK- W E A RING ?

Face oil is a must. Mix your foundation with a few drops of face oil before applying it to your skin. For application, a sponge or brush is the way to go. Lastly, instead of setting powder as a finishing step, I prefer to lightly mist with rose water spray.

Keep blotting papers on hand to gently dab your face if a sheen appears. This way you’ll avoid product rubbing off on your mask. @greggmakeupnyc

KIHMBERLIE PHOTOGRAPHER, SET DESIGNER + MODEL

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L A R G E R T H A N L I F E P. 1 2 2

H OW C AN COUPLE S W HO AR E S T R E AMI NG T H E I R “I DOS ” CR E AT E HI G H-I MPACT DÉ COR T H A T E V E N R E MOT E AT T E NDE E S W I LL E NJOY ?

Color is key. Color will always pop onscreen.

Along with that, make sure your décor contrasts with your space, especially the backdrop. If you’re tying the knot in a backyard with lots of trees and shrubbery, avoid a palette dominated by green and navy, as those colors will blend in instead of stand out. Statement décor elements like a balloon garland or collection of hanging lanterns are budget-friendly ideas that will wow. @kihmberlie

STAFF SPOTLIGHT H A N N A H N O WA C K REAL WEDDINGS EDITOR ANY T I PS FOR COUPL ES H O PIN G TO FACIL ITATE M IXIN G AN D MI NG LI NG AMONG L O VED O N ES? If your guest list includes a lot of attendees who’ve never met, consider hosting a prewedding field day, group hike or welcome party to jump-start interpersonal interactions. Having friends and family wear name tags (just like Anna and Feng did on p.106) at the welcome party will ensure no one stresses about blanking on Uncle Alfred’s name for the third time. @hannahnowack

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Wood charms gave these name tags a chic upgrade.

DOUGLAS: OMAR MEZA; NAME TAGS: CHRISTINA MCNEILL; ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF SUBJECT

C O V E R + T H E P O W E R O F P A N T O R A P. 4 2

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S I N CER I T Y B R I DA L .CO M

TOOLS

Congratulations

YO U ’ R E E N G A G E D !

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Here are the big to-dos from “yes” to “I do.” Turn the page for more, including the 411 on our tools and how to get your personalized checklist.

BUDGET

H IRE YOU R

Ask your besties to stand by you at the altar and in the months leading up to your day.

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TEAM

Research and book pros— anyone you have to have should be locked in ASAP.

EA R

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VEN E U

TE A

WEBS

IT

WEAR

Shop for your attire and schedule necessary fittings—don’t forget accessories.

Choose what your wedding party will wear too.

B U Y YO U R

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E

6 8 9 10 11 12

D EC ID E W H AT TO

REG ISTER + C

T H E R YO GA

BOOK A

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CREW UR

Search for the perfect place to celebrate, keeping budget and guest count in mind. Then set the date.

Head to TheKnot.com to start a wish list and site. Share the link so guests are in on the details, like room blocks.

WEDDING PAPER

PLAN T H E

Select invites, thank-you notes and other stationery.

If you place one order, you may snag a discount.

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FIN A L IZ E OTH E R

PARTY DETAILS

Plan your rehearsal dinner, after-party and morning-after brunch.

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GO FOR

G E T TH E

COMPLET E YOU R

INGS

R I NGS

SHOP

F

OR

F

Try on and purchase your wedding rings—then get insurance. (Now it’s starting to feel really real, right?)

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MARRIAGE LICENSE

Head to the state registrar’s office in the county where you’ll wed for this must-have doc.

C HO O SE A

POINT PERSON

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GET MARRIED!

The planning and hard work are behind you—time to celebrate your new status.

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TEAM

Book any outstanding pros like hairstylists, makeup artists, day-of transportation or a photo booth for your reception.

IT T

Have final attire fittings and arrange for dress and/or suit pickup.

CEREMONY

Meet with your officiant to discuss the details and attend prewedding counseling, if required.

If you don’t have a If wedding planner or daywedding of coordinator, task an of a ttendant or family member attendant to be the go-to so you can relax and enjoy the day.

PIGGY BANK: KALININ ILYA/NOUN PROJECT; VENUE: KOBY BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY; LAPTOP: OLGA/NOUN PROJECT; STAMPS: CLAIRE BENOIST; CARD, DRESS, VOW BOOKS: COURTESY OF VENDORS; MEASURING TAPE: TATYANA/NOUN PROJECT; RINGS: ALEX MURAVEV/NOUN PROJECT; BOUQUET: SARAH ANNE WARD; DRINKS, CAR: ISTOCK; CONFETTI, MARIACHI BAND, MAKEUP, SIGN: GETTY IMAGES

NA IL D OW N THE

Envision your wedding and decide how much you want to spend (and who else will be contributing).

Turn the page for the tools to G ET THE J O B D O NE

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TOOLS

All your wedding plans at your fingertips, anytime.

WE’VE G O T YO U And You’ve Got This!

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STYLE

FIND YOUR WEDDING We know—you’re probably wondering where you should even start (totally normal, btw). First, download our app and take our Style Quiz. It’s a fun way to help zero in on your vibe (think: industrial with bohemian details).

We’ll generate your very own Wedding Vision (more on that on the next page).

EDITOR TIP Think about what you love as a couple. Are you

homebodies or always looking for an excuse to dress up and hit the dance floor? Your wedding should be a true reflection of who you are, so let your personalities lead your style.

2

ORGANIZED

KEEP Not sure what to do when? Look no further than our totally customizable checklist. If you’re asking your future brother-in-law to officiate, you can cross “find an officiant” off your to-do list. Want to add extra entertainment? No problem. Bonus: Our budgeter will help you track your overall spending.

EDITOR TIP Psst, it’s okay to go out of order or to not tick off

every to-do. Really. It’s also totally okay to ask for assistance from your crew or your wedding VIPs—they want to help!

YUNHEE KIM

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Organizing all those details and a checklist? There’s an app for that.

The Knot Wedding Planner pulls together your vision, pros and guests to put planning in the palm of your hand.

PLANNING WITH We’re here for you, every step of the way.

Now, let’s get you married.

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SHARE THE LOVE

HIT THE BOOKS

GET SOCIAL

PICK YOUR PAPER

We love a good meet-cute.

Share your proposal story with us at HowTheyAsked.com

We’ve got 10-plus titles full of advice, inspo and DIY crafts to bring your day to life. TheKnot.com/books

Find us @theknot on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for tips, inspo and more.

Customize everything from save-the-dates to wedding invites at TheKnot.com/paper

12/10/20 3:05 PM

It was a piece of cake .

Having someone plan your entire wedding? Sweet. Having your nuptials in Islamorada? Delicious. Because whether you dream of a barefoot ceremony, a formal black-tie affair or something in-between, our professional wedding coordinators will pull all the strings while you tie the knot. Either way, you and your guests will savor beautiful weather and romantic sunsets, while we cater to your every whim. fla-keys.com/islamorada 1.800.322.5397 For the latest protocols on health & safety in The Florida Keys, please visit our website.

The Islands of Islamorada

Cheeca Lodge & Spa

Scenic oceanfront outdoor space to make your dream island wedding a reality.

305-440-3255 theislandsofislamorada.com

Luxury oceanfront accommodations and event spaces located in The Florida Keys.

305-517-4449 cheeca.com/weddings

TOOLS

YOUR WEDDING VISION

PROS

COMPILE YOUR After you share your info (budget, location, guest count), we’ll help you assemble your squad with recommended vendors. And if you want to keep scrolling, we’ve got tons of award-winning pros (right where you are), plus reviews, on The Knot Marketplace.

EDITOR TIP If you have your heart set on a master chef, a true

floral wizard or an epic cover band, make sure to book those pros first. Many in-demand vendors get scooped up early, especially in high season (May through October). And if you’re looking to support wedding businesses owned by underrepresented groups, the new filters on The Knot Marketplace can help you do just that.

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REGISTRY

MANAGE YOUR People will want to shower you with gifts from “we’re engaged” to your wedding day, so a registry is a must-have.

Build yours on The Knot and add items from our expansive catalog or wherever you shop online using our universal registry tool. That means you don’t have to choose between Etsy finds and smart tech from Amazon. Plus, your guests get a one-stop shopping experience—a win-win.

EDITOR TIP The Knot Registry also lets you ask for cash for

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things like an epic trip to Bali or a down payment on a new home. Yes, you read that right: It’s okay to ask for $$$.

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DISCOVER WHAT YOU LOVE You’ll start by swiping right on images you love; these will be added to your final board (you can always add more).

There’s also room to add personalized must-haves (think: taco truck, dog-friendly venue or room for a sangeet).

DEFINE YOUR STYLE No couple is just one set style—instead, you’ll get a series of words that describe your vibe. Bonus: You can use this lingo when talking with your pros.

SHARE YOUR IDEAS When you’re ready, send your inspo-packed vision board to your fam and the people bringing your day to life.

This series of images will help convey your idea of what a “romantic garden party” really looks like.

PERFECT YOUR COLOR PALETTE We’ll even suggest colors that match your wedding style.

Not quite right? Change them up as you plan.

GET PERSONAL RECOMMENDATIONS

GUESTS

THINK OF YOUR A wedding website is clutch—for your guests and you. Fill your site with need-to-know info, like hotels and registries, and any FAQs or changes due to COVID-19 (more on that on page 52). Your friends and family will be in the know, and you won’t be fielding emails hours before you say “I do.”

You can even stay on top of RSVPs with our built-in tool.

We’ll take your quiz answers and match you with vendors based on your location, style and budget—starting with your venue.

SAY “I DO” WITH EASE We’ll send you helpful reminders along the way and create a day-of timeline to ensure smooth sailing.

EDITOR TIP Choose from free designs (coordinate

with your The Knot wedding invites), and even snag a custom URL for an extra touch of personalization.

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DO SOME SHOPPING

GIVE BACK

SHOW YOUR APPRECIATION

SHARE PHOTOS

Find personalized décor, unique favor ideas and wedding party gifts for all your peeps at TheKnotShop.com

The Knot Gifts Back makes a donation to a charity of your choice for every gift purchased off your registry— at no cost to you or your guests.

Chances are a lot of people helped pull together your day. Offer your thanks with great gift ideas at TheKnot.com/gift-guides

Prompt guests to download The Guest app, and their photos and videos will be shared in real time!

LIGHT BULB: HEADSOFBIRDS/NOUN PROJECT; MAGNIFYING GLASS: LINSEED STUDIO/NOUN PROJECT; IDEAS: CREATIVE STALL/NOUN PROJECT; COLOR PALETTE: OLGA/NOUN PROJECT; TARGET: PRIME ICONS/NOUN PROJECT; LIST: ALEX MURAVEV/NOUN PROJECT

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Take our Style Quiz in the app and we’ll help you create your very own Wedding Vision board. Use it to plan your #bestdayever.

12/10/20 3:06 PM

ADVICE

QA

ASK THE KNOT SQUAD You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. We tapped our team—and one of our go-to industry pros—to solve some of your most of-the-moment planning asks.

O U R TA K E

Q:

I ’ M H AV I N G A 1 0 -PERSO N WED D I N G AN D W AN T T H E I M AGES T O LO O K C O H E S I V E . H O W MUC H FASHI O N D I RE C T I O N C AN I G I V E WI T HO UT O V E RS T E PPI N G ?

SHELLEY BROWN

Q:

I A TTE NDE D A WE D D I N G V I A Z O O M B U T D I D N ’ T F E E L CO NN E CTE D TO THE D AY . I ’ M W O RRI E D M Y G U E S T S W I LL F E E L THE SA M E WA Y . HOW CAN M Y PAR T N E R AN D I M AK E T H E VIDE O STR E A M ING M OR E E X C I T I N G F O R RE M O T E AT T E N D E E S ?

P R O TA K E

ERIN + STEVE SOK Cofounders of Sok Vision Erin and Steve are the Washington, DC–based husband-and-wife duo behind Sok Vision, using cinematography to bring couples’ stories to life.

There are a few tricks you can use to engage your virtual guests during the wedding. Consider having a friend step in as the streaming master of ceremonies. This person can oversee fun activities or conversations with remote guests before and after the ceremony. Another option is to record a special message for each remote guest. Having individual conversations with attendees over a video stream can be difficult, but a prerecorded message will ensure everyone feels important and honored. After the wedding is over, share your wedding video with guests to help them feel part of all the moments they toasted from afar. Since small weddings often forgo the hustle and bustle of the day, and truly center on the couple, your video will bring the celebration’s memories to life in a way that photos can’t.

All the beautiful little characteristics of your love story— from the sound of your laughter to the sincerity of your vows—will become cherished moments in an heirloom wedding film you can share with others.

It’s okay to provide guidance on dress code and even color palette via your invitations or wedding website.

Offering some examples, and even encouraging guests to shop their closets, will ensure your loved ones don’t stress about choosing the right outfit. However, if you find yourself getting overly particular with fashion requests, you might be limiting guests’ options too aggressively.

An invitation to wear jewel tones, as opposed to all-red attire, for example, gives attendees the chance to add their flair to your directive.

At the end of the day, the most important thing is celebrating your love story with your friends and family—fashion comes second.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: RUDNEY NOVAES PHOTOGRAPHY; JESSICA KANE; AMANDA PETERSEN PHOTOGRAPHY; RENEE HOLLINGSHEAD PHOTOGRAPHY

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Senior Fashion and Beauty Editor

Q:

W H E N I T C O M E S T O L AST - MI N UT E W E D D I N G C H AN G E S , HO W M U C H C AN I RE LY O N S OC I AL MED I A, AS O PPO S E D T O M AI L O R EMAI L , T O C O M M U N I C AT E T H O S E UPD AT ES? SARAH HOOPER Social Media Manager

I wouldn’t recommend sharing wedding day details over DM. Messages shared on social are checked far less frequently than texts or emails, and you’d never want your message to accidentally end up in Aunt Carol’s message requests, never to be seen, ever. As much as I love DMs, a phone call, email blast or wedding website update is a far more effective way to convey last-minute info.

Find more advice on THE K N OT WE D D IN G PL ANN E R APP

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12/10/20 3:13 PM

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11/20/20 10:29 AM

ESSAY

AFTER

JOY

LOSS, I FOUND

AND

HEALING LOVE Ashlee Jensen, a Utah-based podcaster and mother, shares her road to healing and new love after the passing of her first husband.

AS TOLD TO HANNAH NOWACK

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THE POWER OF POPPIES Ashlee’s dress was adorned with her daughter’s namesake bloom, which symbolizes hope and remembrance.

up on my journey. He let me cry on his shoulder, he brought fresh perspective into my world, and, more than anything, he brought hope. The first year after my husband’s passing was really hard on the anniversary dates, birthdays—all these reminders that take you right back. Dane, fortunately, was the supporting anchor through it all. That’s why our relationship works. He didn’t try to save me, but was just supportive, loving and kind. Over the course of the two years we dated, he also slowly won over my daughter. Now she is obsessed with him.

When we got married on August 22nd, it was the most magical day, second only to giving birth. It was surreal to be having that moment, because I honestly couldn’t imagine myself getting married again after going through such a big loss.

Although COVID-19 upended our initial plan to get married in California—and then our second plan to wed in Hawaii—our intimate celebration in Utah was perfect.

The energy at our venue was so inviting,

welcoming and grounding.

I chose to have my mom and Poppy walk me down the aisle. After my first husband died, and even before then, my mom’s always been there for me. I also worked so hard through infertility to get my daughter here. She is my heart outside of my body. When I was healing through my grieving process, Poppy was the only thing that brought me peace and calm; she grounded me. Having Poppy holding my hand down the aisle was symbolic of our new journey with Dane. Plus, having my mom holding my dress, just as she had held my hand when I gave birth, made me feel her supporting this next step.

My mom has a shaman background and she started the ceremony by opening the directions, which are similar to prayers.

My longtime therapist then officiated as we exchanged vows. He has been there through everything and it was really special to have him marry us. Many of the guests had been through the heartache with us, so it was beautiful to have them present for a new beginning. Our union was truly a moment of collective healing.

PHOTOGRAPHS: HEATHER NAN; EVENT PLANNING & FLORAL DESIGN: RACHAEL ELLEN EVENTS; DRESS: MAGGIE SOTTERO DESIGNS; SUIT: TOMMASO CARDULLO; HAIR: HAIR BY ALYSE; MAKEUP: TIA MONTGOMERY; VENUE: THE LODGE AT BLUE SKY, WANSHIP, UTAH

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i

had this idea in my head of how I thought my life would go: get married, have a baby—you know, a cute little life. But when my daughter, Poppy, was just eight months old, my husband, Paul, went missing. Following an 18-day search, I sat with Poppy, our life in pieces. I didn’t know there could be such darkness.

But my mom promised me, “As dark as this feels right now, I promise you, one day you will feel the light again.”

Following the funeral, Poppy and I moved in with my mother. I hadn’t left Poppy’s side for months, and while I wasn’t ready for a relationship, I was ready for a break from the heaviness of my emotions. Around Halloween, my friend brought Dane over for a game night. He is a six-foot, five-inch Danish man who golfs, and he walked in the door with confidence and charm. Yet his presence was also calming and peaceful; he felt like home.

We played a card game that night and really hit it off. I hadn’t laughed that hard in a while.

I was smitten with him from the start, but also apprehensive about being in a relationship. Although we clicked right away, I still had a lot to go through emotionally. I had already been through so much; my life was unzipped and fully laid MY LIFE WAS out for the world to see when UNZIPPED A N D L A I D O U T Paul went missing. The life FOR THE that I built was just shattered.

W O R L D T O S E E However, the thing that was WHEN PAUL beautiful about Dane was that WENT MISSING. he allowed me to heal myself.

THE LIFE He didn’t step in and just I B U I LT W A S fill a hole, a broken heart. He SHATTERED. stepped in and buoyed me

12/10/20 3:16 PM

TR ADITIONS P E R S O N A L B A L L A D Brent composed and performed a song. “I don’t know much, but I know that we make a song,” he serenaded. “All I know is I can hear heaven sing along.”

BRITTNEY + BRENT WILMINGTON, NC

TEQUILA TRIBUTE

CREATING CUSTOMS

CARA + NICK SAN JOSÉ DEL CABO, MEXICO

A ceremony ritual can extend beyond a candle lighting or sand pouring. Pay homage to your favorite pastime or form a totally new tradition with an out-of-the-box observance.

“We wanted our ceremony to be short, sweet and not too serious,” Cara says.

So the couple took shots of tequila in honor of their destination locale.

AUGUSTUS + JEFFERY LOS ANGELES, CA

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BY HANNAH NOWACK

UNI + JOHN MALIBU, CA

CAST A SPELL

FRESH ACTS OF UNITY There’s a rite out there that’s right for you

The couple asked guests to light candles and write wishes on parchment paper as part of a spell.

“It was our nod to the joining of souls together,” Augustus says.

B E T T E R W I T H AG E Nail a choice bottle of wine from your wedding year into a box, to be opened on a monumental anniversary.

L E T L O V E G R O W “For our unity ceremony, we watered an oak tree,” Uni says. “We love that it serves as a reminder and symbol of our marriage every day.”

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CHILDREN’S TALE

T Y I N G T H E K N OT Get literal and tie a few strands of rope together to signify your strong bond.

MACKENZIE + JOHN SEELEY LAKE, MT

Wedding party members read excerpts from the 1960s classic I Like You. “They totally hammed it up,” Mackenzie says.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: AVONNÉ PHOTOGRAPHY; PHOTO BY JULIETA; DAVID PERLMAN PHOTOGRAPHY (2); LAUREN BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY; LUNA DE MARE PHOTOGRAPHY

PICTURE PERFECT Artsy couples can paint a blank canvas together.

12/10/20 3:28 PM

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11/20/20 10:31 AM

MINIMONIES

BOTANICALS “I still dream about the flowers from my wedding day,” says Jamie of the dusty blush roses, white roses, orchids and pampas grass woven throughout the event.

Jamie + Asaad .

GET IN TOUCH

08 08 | BROOKYLN, NY

ROOFTOP MINIMONY

The day-of paper matched the couple’s wedding website, which proved to be a crucial tool to communicate lastminute updates.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNY FU WRITTEN BY HANNAH NOWACK

a

s an emergency medicine physician, Jamie Lee (32) was keenly aware of the potential health risks COVID-19 posed for her nuptials to Asaad Zaman (32 and a video producer). But powerful symbolism accompanied their August 8th wedding date, as it was also Jamie and Asaad’s 10-year anniversary and exactly one year after their engagement. As such, they were eager to proceed with safely exchanging vows on that day, even though it meant reimagining the event to protect guests’ well-being. Off the bat, they cut the guest list by 100 people, opting instead to create a video stream for loved ones to tune into. “It was difficult to have so many details up in the air until the last minute,” Jamie says. With ever-changing regulations, even the venue was booked merely two weeks out.

SAFE SEATS For dinner, families were seated together.

There was also a separate table for health care workers.

MOTHERLY ADVICE Both Jamie and Asaad’s moms read Bible passages with wisdom they wanted to impart to the couple as they wed.

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INGREDIENTS C E R E M O NY + R EC E PTI O N S ITE Dobbin St, Brooklyn, NY PH OTOG R APHY Jenny Fu VI D EOG R APHY Forged in The North FLO R AL D ES I G N Flowers by Ford O FFI CIANT Pastor Nathan Lewis of Every Nation NYC GOWN

Katherine Tash, Lovely Bride, New York City VE I L White by Vera Wang, David’s Bridal S U IT Indochino S H O ES Jamie: Manolo Blahnik; Asaad: Bruno Magli E N G AG E M E NT + WE DD I N G RI N G S Jamie: The True Gem; Asaad: Jangmi Jewelry HAI R + MAK EU P All Brides New York S TATI O N E RY Zola.com R E NTAL S Two of a Kind CATE R I N G Chef Cava CAK E Sarah & Simon Cake Design M U S I C Silver Arrow Band

12/10/20 3:33 PM

CULTURAL MENU The menu nodded to the couple’s heritage. Jamie is Korean; Asaad is Filipino and Bengali. Samosas, bulgogi steak and chicken inasal were all on offer.

FULL OF FAITH The couple’s pastor and friend officiated the ceremony. “It felt natural to ask a friend who also happens to be a spiritual leader,” Jamie says.

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NO DISTANCE TOO FAR Asaad’s video production background lent itself to livestreaming the ceremony. Later in the evening, the couple watched video messages from those who couldn’t attend, including Jamie’s 89-year-old grandmother.

CUT THE CAKE Despite their small guest count, the couple still served a delicious lemon wedding cake with lavender-honey buttercream.

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12/10/20 3:33 PM

M O D E L B E H AV I O R Andrea wears her ready-to-wear collection at Pantora Bridal.

Jumpsuit in sizes up to XXXL, $169, PantoraBridal .com; shoes, talent’s own

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12/14/20 5:02 PM

COVER STORY

BY SHELLEY BROWN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDRE L. PERRY

ANDREA PITTER NOTICED A LACK OF WEDDING GOWNS AND STORES CREATED WITH BLACK WOMEN IN MIND— SO SHE CREATED HER OWN. HERE, THE DESIGNER AND SALON OWNER SHARES HER JOURNEY FROM ONE CUSTOM DRESS TO A BRIDAL EMPIRE, WHY REPRESENTATION MATTERS AND HOW THE WEDDING INDUSTRY CAN DO BETTER.

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first connected with Andrea Pitter last year when I was writing a “Black Wedding Dress Designers to Follow Now” article for TheKnot.com (we’ll get into that later).

Two things about Andrea struck me immediately: First, she described Pantora Bridal, in Brooklyn, NY, as a “safe space for Black women,” detailing how a few dresses and a tiny showroom became a fully realized boutique, wedding dress collection and ready-to-wear line because she made the brave decision to serve an underserved community.

Second, she was brutally honest about the lack of inclusivity

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in the wedding industry, highlighting the media’s role in underrepresenting or misrepresenting Black couples in particular. “What we’re doing is bigger than dresses,” she said more than once, and she was absolutely right. I knew I wanted to know more about Andrea’s story, and that her perspective deserved more than a few sentences in a list.

What resulted was a raw and real conversation about the numerous challenges women of color face when shopping for wedding attire, the greater cultural implications of how Black love is portrayed and what gives her hope for the future.

12/14/20 5:02 PM

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S H ELLE Y B ROWN: What inspired you to both design dresses and

open a bridal salon? That’s a rare combination in the wedding industry.

AN DRE A PIT TER: It is rare. I started Pantora Bridal when I was around 20 years old. I wanted my dresses to be in stores but I realized I was a little green and the stores weren’t necessarily taking me seriously. I knew that in order to sell wedding dresses, I had to be my own seller. So I opened the store in 2013. And we continued to go to New York bridal market and attempt to pick up retailers, but it wasn’t that easy. A lot of retailers were playing the comparison game like, ‘Oh, you’re the Black Vera Wang.’ And I was like, ‘I’m just Andrea. We don’t have to turn me into someone else so it’s more palatable for you.’ Eventually I stopped going to bridal market altogether because it wasn’t a positive experience for me or for my business. We decided that we would keep the store going, and we would pump the brakes on finding retailers that would pick up our brand. We decided that the retailers who would work for us would seek us out.

S B: Pantora Bridal started as a small showroom and is now a fully realized brand. What was that journey like?

AP: It was really hard. I’ve quit many times and come back the next day (laughs). When we opened the store in 2013, it was really just myself and maybe one other person and brides were coming in one at a time, based on referrals.

And then it was one bride told 10 brides and all of a sudden we were this full-fledged bridal brand and bridal salon. We had to keep adjusting to the demand. So it started off as a 400-square-foot boutique and we opened up an extension store across the street, because it was the closest thing that had more space. Then we realized that it was not ideal for us to be bouncing back and forth from one space to the next.

Then our first retailer picked us up, and we realized we were expanding fairly fast.

So about three years ago, we moved to Nostrand Avenue, which is about a 3,000-square-foot space. Our team has tripled in size, and we’re now sold at four retailers and were recently picked up by Kleinfeld. I’m really excited about that.

They’re pros and have been really, really supportive.

I T H I N K T H AT B L A C K W O M E N H AV E S U C H B I G S P E N D I N G P O W E R . T H E FA C T T H AT W E A R E N ’ T AC K N O W L E D G I N G T H E M I N FA S H I O N D O E S N OT M A K E A N Y S E N S E . I T J U S T D O E S N ’ T. S B: You mentioned you’ve quit many times and come back the

next day. What are some of the challenges you faced?

AP: One time at bridal market, a retailer wanted to pick up our

dresses, and they didn’t know that I was the designer. They thought I was a sales girl. I didn’t fully introduce myself, and we were having this great conversation and they’re telling us what dresses they want to pick up, and we’re writing out the

21SPR_FEAT_CoverStory.L [P].indd 44

order and they’re saying they’re going to buy a plane ticket and they just need to understand the designer’s schedule, so that they can prepare for a trunk show. And I realized in that moment that they didn’t know I was the designer. The minute I said so, their demeanor changed and they said, ‘Oh, we’ll follow up.’ I didn’t want to be negative about it, but when I called them back the gatekeepers were real. They were like, ‘We don’t know what you’re talking about. We never had a conversation.’ It was a complete 180. And it felt like that was the way it was going to be at bridal market.

And then when Pantora does get recognition, it’s often on a ‘Black Designers’ list. I think a lot of Black designers experience that. Our talent exists year-round, but when we get recognition it’s only on ‘Black Designers to Know’ lists.

But if we are talented, and you truly want to give us the recognition, then it should come at any point in time, not just when you want to specifically acknowledge Black talent.

And that’s been one of the hardest things, because I think I’m talented overall, not just a talented Black person.

S B: That’s so true. It’s a multilayered issue and I think a lot of brands and editors are guilty of it—myself included. There’s a lot of talent not listed on the CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) calendar during bridal market, and we all have to do better at recognizing that.

AP: There really is. It’s amazing to see the media putting a focus on Black talent. It is multilayered, just like you said.

And it goes back to resources. I was a part of a forum recently where I talked to up-and-coming Black designers about how to get their businesses ready. And what happens is so many stores want to pick up Black designers, and they may pick up two or three brands, but the brands can’t sustain it because they don’t fully understand the process of what it’s like to have a bridal brand. So the designs are amazing, but the business side of things is not so amazing. Or they don’t understand supply and demand. Or they don’t understand what it’s like to order dresses seven months in advance. They don’t understand consistency. There are so many expensive lessons to learn. I went to bridal market twice and that alone is a five-figure experience. So it’s an experience where you’re spending so much money and probably just trying to learn because no one is placing orders. I don’t know many designers who can sustain that.

S B: You make such a good point about resources. It does cost thousands of dollars to be a part of bridal market. I don’t think most people know or even consider that.

AP: Yeah and it’s not just to attend bridal market, but to be prepared and to even be competitive amongst the people who are building amazing booths, bringing in the best models and paying for the best images. It’s such a big expense. You go once, and you think you’ve learned a lot, and then you go a second time, and you realize that you’ve learned a lot, but you’re also up against a lot of bias.

S B: You’ve been very outspoken about the lack of inclusivity in the wedding industry. How would you like to see it change?

AP: I think that Black women have such big spending power.

The fact that we aren’t acknowledging them in fashion does not make any sense. It just doesn’t. I would love for size charts to make sense for different body types. I would love to see designers and brands pay attention to skin tones.

STYLING: SHELLEY BROWN; PROP STYLING: KERRY REARDON AT RAYBROWNPRO.COM; HAIR AND MAKEUP: GREGG HUBBARD FOR MAC AND KÉRASTASE

COVER STORY

12/14/20 5:02 PM

BOSS BABE Andrea sits surrounded by her sketches and wedding gowns.

Blazer in sizes up to XXXL, $169, pants in sizes up to XXXL, $129, PantoraBridal. com; shoes, talent’s own

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12/14/20 5:02 PM

COVER STORY AP: I think oftentimes salespeople don’t understand how closeknit and family-oriented we are. It’s not just the bride being celebrated, it’s also perhaps the mom or the sister or, you know, another person who’s been supportive. Black people are so celebratory—as we should be. We’ve been through a lot and we’ve survived so much. I don’t think that everyone always understands why we celebrate so hard.

Beyond that, at Pantora we have questionnaires we give our brides when they come in and we try to understand what it is that they want to get out of their appointments. I’ve had too many brides come into our salon and say they’ve been told they’re considered plus-size, and we’re looking at them like, ‘There’s no way.’ And it’s because they have a booty. Then the dresses that they’re being told are the best dresses for them are all A-line or the alterations suggested don’t give that little pinch that shows off the booty. We want to show the curves! And it can feel like these ideas are somewhat

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R E A L PA N TO R A B R I D E S

ANN MATTHEWS

TORIAN YANCEY-STEMBRIDGE

B E AC O N , N Y

who are like me and who think like me, but I can’t speak for every Black person. I can defend us and speak up as much as I can, but I can’t speak for everyone.

But I do think that even the way Black women appear in the media is an issue. In bridal photo shoots, when we are included we are often the bridesmaid. We’re rarely the bride.

Or sometimes it feels like we’re a prop. If we were thought of differently, it could change the way the media portrays us.

And that goes back to having Black women in boardrooms.

It’s not just about hiring a Black person. Black people should also be actively making decisions. We’re going to get so much further as a society just by realizing what inclusivity means.

S B: Can you talk more about the challenges you mentioned that many women of color specifically face when shopping for wedding attire?

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G R E AT N E C K , N Y

DANIELLE BLY M O N T E G O B AY, JA M A I C A

frowned upon, or people are not necessarily taking the time to understand our body types or our values.

It’s also not always about the selection of dresses available. It’s also about what’s being suggested, and salespeople not being trained that there are lots of women with curves who want to show them off and appreciate them.

But the media tells us that if you’re curvy you should hide your body—and even ‘curvy’ is a hard word because that means you have a small waist and a big bust and big hips— but we’re talking about real women who may not look like a video vixen or a model. But they are women who love their bodies and are not trying to hide them. And it’s just bizarre to me that fashion is so personal, and so many people in the industry don’t understand that sometimes brides are going for the feeling first and not necessarily what it looks

FROM LEFT: KESHA LAMBERT PHOTOGRAPHY; MICHELLE DAWN PHOTOGRAPHY; JOSHUA DWAIN PHOTOGRAPHY; REEM PHOTOGRAPHY; JOSHUA DWAIN PHOTOGRAPHY; STANLO PHOTOGRAPHY

Pantora is not the first brand to create mesh that matches skin tones—and we would never claim to be— but we made a point of creating a line of mesh called Forgotten Skin Tones that addresses as many skin tones as possible, so Black women can get the illusion look that’s trending everywhere.

I would love to see other brands do that.

I’d love for people to really understand what diversity looks like, because it’s not just including Black women. It’s also their thoughts, sentiments and culture. I think sometimes we think that diversity is legitimately just putting a Black face in the room. But what are the thoughts of that Black person? How does that represent the community? And I don’t think any one Black person can represent everyone. I actually understand why everyone may not be as opinionated as I am, because when you speak so loudly about concerns and issues like this, it’s very hard to make sure that people understand that you’re not trying to be the Black delegate. I can just speak for people

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R E P R E S E N TAT I O N I S I M P O RTA N T B EC A U S E I N E E D like first. And the thing is, what might be ideal to me might not be ideal to you. I think it’s really important that the person actually wearing the dress feels good about themselves and feels like who they are is being represented.

SB: Why is more representation in bridal fashion so important to you?

AP: We’re very willing to accept money from Black women, but we’re not willing to accept the thoughts of Black women. Representation is important because I need to be able to see myself when I’m shopping, and I need to know that my voice is heard. I need to know that my money is going to a place that represents my values. Black women do, in fact, get married, despite what the media tells you. Black love is very prevalent, despite what the media tells you. So we need to show as much Black love, Black body acceptance and Black joy as possible.

SHELAH MARIE MIAMI, FL

I N E E D TO K N O W M Y V O I C E I S H E A R D. I N E E D TO K N O W T H AT M Y M O N E Y I S G O I N G TO A P L A C E T H AT R E P R E S E N T S M Y VA L U E S . foolishness would stop if we had different opinions being heard.

Historically, the wedding industry and the fashion industry are white, male-owned and -operated, but geared towards women. I just think that it’s time to listen to the people who are dropping the coin. And I’m so happy that people are waking up and Black women are demanding better.

RACHEL JACKSON C A R L E P L AC E , N Y

S B: So you’re saying there’s a connection between how Black

people are stereotyped and how they’re underrepresented in the wedding industry?

AP: Yes. A lot of people think that Black families are not whole, and it’s not true. It’s just not true. So when we don’t show Black love and Black families, it ties back to that stereotype that we’ve been trying to break for centuries.

S B: How can the industry as a whole keep the momentum of this conversation and this movement going?

AP: The first order of business is to go hire some Black people and not in a performative way. I’ve noticed over the past couple of months that a lot of brands have booked more Black models—but what does your core team look like? Because if it does not include Black women, all you’re doing is putting a face out there, but you’re not representing the values. Maybe a lot of

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TO S E E M Y S E L F W H E N I ’ M S H O P P I N G .

ASHLEY WRAY SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

Even with this The Knot feature, I’m excited that I’ve been extended a seat at the table. I think it is time for larger publications that are historically white to acknowledge other talent. You said I’ve been very vocal about representation, and I have been. I understand why some Black businesses ‘whitewash’ their businesses or step to the side, because they’ve been told it will make them more successful—I’m not even mad about it, because a lot of people told me to do that too. It’s just not an option for me. Black women built my business, and I am not going to be quiet about it. I’m going to sing their praises because Pantora wouldn’t exist without them and their continued support.

I’m emotional about this. It’s emotional for me because my business is about good intentions. We are rooted in good intentions—we are representing the underrepresented.

12/14/20 5:03 PM

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S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

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For more ways to safely celebrate, turn the page

12/10/20 5:13 PM

NEW + NOW

M ORE WAYS TO

While in-person celebrations are the best, these alternative parties are pretty epic ways to have remote fun.

GAME NIGHT

COOKING CLASS WATCH PARTY

Let your competitive spirit run wild with Game Night Out. A virtual host will guide your gang through mini-games and challenges.

Learn to cook Italian classics over Zoom with Nonna Live. Prepare to be schooled and delighted by a real Italian grandmother.

Host movie night with Teleparty.

It connects friends, synchronizes video playback and has a group chat for viewing chatter.

GameNightOut.com

NonnaLive.com

Teleparty.com

NE W YE AR, NE W HUES

T H E C OLORS OF T HE YEA R Your wedding palette may not dictate the vibe or theme of your day, but it does help tie together all the details, from florals to signage and signature sips. Let this year’s picks help shape your style. Here are our favorite shades and the pairings we love most.

The Knot MATCHA

ILLUMINATING

One of the biggest players in bridal fashion, Pronovias Group, plans to make 50 percent of its collection eco-friendly by 2025.

V I NTAG E

BOHE MI AN

R E TRO

CL AS SIC

NAVY + GOLD

BURNT ORANGE + BURGUNDY

MUSTARD + SAND

WHITE + SKY BLUE

Benjamin Moore

Sherwin-Williams

AEGEAN TEAL

URBANE BRONZE

W H I M S I CA L

G LAM

RUSTIC

M O DERN

APRICOT + MINK

GOLD + AMETHYST

SAGE + CREAM

ROSE + SILVER

If sustainability is a key value of your wedding, it can be tough to find eco-friendly dress options—until now. Barcelona-based bridal brand Pronovias Group launched #WeDoEco, a line of sustainable gowns, at Valmont Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week. The collection consists of two parts: 15 entirely sustainable dresses (labeled 360° Eco), plus 24 dresses with sustainable components. Beyond just gorgeous gowns, #WeDoEco is part of a long-term commitment to larger green initiatives, including waste-free manufacturing, sustainable packaging materials and a wedding dress resale program in collaboration with the UK-based nonprofit Brides Do Good.

Pronovias.com

For the nostalgic pair who settled on a minimony:

FO U N D : YO U R P E R F ECT F I R S T- D A N C E S O N G

For the optimistic duo who have remained hopeful though it all:

Our picks for every type of wedding held in 2021

“THE BEST IS YET TO COME”

“NOTHING’S GOING TO STOP US NOW”

BY F R A N K S I N AT R A

BY S TA R S H I P

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FROM LEFT: DAN VO/NOUN PROJECT; COURTESY OF VENDOR

Pantone ULTIMATE GRAY

GREEN IS THE NEW BLACK

12/10/20 5:13 PM

wellness watch

SOAK IN THE BATHLEISURE A major perk of spending more time at home? The chance to step up your #selfcare game. Here are five luxe products that make bath time feel indulgent.

treasure trove

BLING FOR ALL Alison Lou, the go-to jeweler for celebs like Jennifer Lawrence and Emily Ratajkowski, has debuted a collection of wedding rings.

“I Do by Lou” offers seven modern settings as well as the option to go totally bespoke. And because this bling is made to order, it’s unisex and size-inclusive— what’s not to love?

A soothing combo of rose, bergamot, lavender, jasmine, patchouli and coconut is instant aromatherapy.

Replica Bubble Bath candle, $52, Maison Margiela, Selfridges.com

BATH SALTS

BEAUTY OIL

SUGAR SCRUB

BODY TOWEL

Add a scoop of these potent CBD-infused bath salts to your tub to ease sore muscles and melt away tension.

High CBD Formula bath salts, $65, LordJones.com

A multipurpose blend of four natural oils that works for both hair and skin, this fast-absorbing formula is rich— but never greasy.

Beauty oil, $30, Embryolisse.com

Slough off dead skin cells and get an allover glow with this lush sugar scrub that feels like velvet and smells like roses.

Rose Blanche body polish, $42, Cuerpa.com

The right fluffy towel can make any bathroom feel like a spa. Bonus: This special one is sustainable, quick-drying and kills bacteria.

Body towel, $99, Resore.com

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FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF VENDORS (3); SHUTTERSTOCK; COURTESY OF VENDORS (7)

Inquire for details, AlisonLou.com

SCENTED CANDLE

Fashionistas, get your wish lists ready. Tokyo-based designer Tomo Koizumi has launched a bridal collection in collaboration with Japanese wedding dress atelier Treat— and it’s a treat for the eyes (sorry, we had to). Koizumi rose to fame after debuting rainbow organza designs that stole the show at Fall/Winter 2019 New York Fashion Week. It should come as no surprise, then, that his first bridal collection is just as whimsical. Tomo Koizumi for Treat Maison consists of eight gowns inspired by the unique traditions of Japan. Highlights include frothy ball gowns with Kimono-inspired pops of red, blue and green.

From $6,000, TreatDressing.jp

For the couple who rescheduled and rescheduled again thanks to COVID-19:

For the couple who have been together forever and had to wait even longer to make it official:

For the couple who couldn’t wait and eloped:

“AT L A S T ”

“A T H O U S A N D Y E A R S ”

“ I M E LT W I T H Y O U ”

BY E T TA JA M E S

BY C H R I S T I N A P E R R I

BY N O U V E L L E VAG U E

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12/10/20 5:15 PM

NEW + NOW

W H AT ’S NEW W I TH TH E KN OT

WEDDING WEBSITES 1 H I D E YO U R W E D D I N G DATE Know you’re tying the knot, but not sure when (cough, thanks COVID-19)? Now you can hide your wedding date until you’re ready to share it with the world.

2 C OV I D -1 9 A N N O U N C E M E NT

SPECIAL DELIVERY Not being able to try on bling before you buy is a huge drawback of shopping for rings online—but that’s about to change.

New direct-to-consumer jewelry site Gemist offers custom engagement rings you can try on before you take the plunge. It works like this: Select three ring styles to try on, pay a $45 deposit and test the sample rings for up to two weeks before sending them back. If you fall in love with a style, you can tweak any element of your ring (think: center stone or setting) to make it just right before placing your order.

Despite the promise of a vaccine, there’s a good chance you’ll want to update your guests about COVID-19 precautions and safety measures. Now you can pin a custom update to the top of your wedding website.

3 LIV E S TR E A M Settling for a smaller celebration?

Share the details of your livestream, including the URL, on your wedding website so friends and family can still be part of the joy from afar.

4

Gemist.co

Q+A Fielding too many texts from your guests? A Q+A feature allows you to share answers to anticipated questions—no explaining the mask requirement twice!

SL EEK & CHIC With more casual nuptials on the rise, Morilee

by Madeline Gardner created a new line of streamlined dresses and bridal separates called The Other White Dress.. Already have your gown? These effortlessly glam looks will work for your other wedding-related events too.

5 GUEST M E S SAG I N G Reach all your guests seamlessly with a new messaging feature, perfect for gentle RSVP reminders and last-minute updates.

Build your website at TheKnot.com/weddingwebsite

From $700, Morilee.com

For the couple willing to wait it out until it’s safe to have their dream wedding:

For the hopeless romantics who promised forever mid-pandemic:

For the couple who shifted their plans from wedding to baby:

“SLOW BURN”

“THINKING OUT LOUD”

“FROM THE GROUND UP”

BY K AC E Y M U S G R AV E S

BY E D S H E E R A N

BY DA N + S H AY

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COURTESY OF VENDORS

fashion alert

12/10/20 5:15 PM

beauty buzz

MANE CHANGERS Shedding some of your strands is normal, but if you’ve been losing more hair than usual in recent months, rest assured you aren’t alone. Stress can trigger telogen effluvium (also known as temporary hair loss) and—let’s be real— between a global pandemic and wedding postponements, these are stressful times. We tapped the experts to get the deets on how to reverse and prevent thinning hair, so you can feel like your most confident self on your day.

SEE A SPECIAL IST

CAMP CRAFT C O C K TA I L S If you didn’t master mixology during lockdown, you’re in luck: This kit lets you batch infused cocktails with little effort. Add 12 ounces of alcohol to a mason jar and refrigerate for three days; shake and serve. The kit pours eight drinks but can be infused twice for 16 sensational sips.

From $25, CampCraftCocktails.com

If you’re experiencing hair loss, start by consulting a dermatologist or trichologist. They’ll create a treatment plan to address your unique needs.

M AN AGE STRES S

While you probably can’t do away with stress completely, learning some easy relaxation techniques can improve your mindset. “Take 30 minutes a day to focus on you and shut out the rest of the world,” says dermatologist Corey Hartman, MD. Meditate, exercise, binge The Great British Bake Off—whatever helps you keep calm.

KEEP YO U R SCAL P CL EAN

H YDRATE YO U R H AIR

COURTESY OF VENDORS

TAKE NOTE Relish your honeymoon and first year of marriage, then treasure the memories for years to come with our new guided journals. Prompts leave room for you and your partner to put it all out there.

From $20, Amazon.com

While your scalp plays a huge role in hair growth, the health of your strands matters too. Dry hair breaks more easily, so add a moisturizing mask to your routine if your strands are brittle.

TAKE A SUPPL EM EN T

According to dermatologist Dhaval Bhanusali, MD, many hair supplements don’t have enough research to support their claims. “I recommend taking 5000 IU of vitamin D3 and a good

For the persistent pandemic daters who found true love in spite of social distancing:

For the engaged duo who came out of lockdown still in love and eager to wed:

“EVERYTHING”

“BETTER TOGETHER”

BY M I C H A E L B U B L É

BY JAC K J O H N S O N

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APPLY GROWTH -IN DUCIN G TO PICA LS

While the root of stress-related hair loss is internal, applying topicals to your scalp can encourage growth. Experts agree that products with minoxidil as well as DHT blockers can help reverse more serious hair loss .

AVO ID H EAT DAM AGE

High levels of heat can cause breakage.

To prevent damage to your strands, use a heat protectant and be mindful of how often you’re using hot tools.

MUST-HAVES HAIR SUPPLEMENT Tricho Complex nutritional supplement, $68, PhilipKingsley.com

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Elizabeth Cunnane Phillips, a trichologist at Philip Kingsley, says a clean scalp is the best environment for hair growth. “You don’t want sweat or sebum on your scalp in the same way you don’t want it on our face,” she says. If you have oily hair, or you use a lot of products, a cleansing scalp scrub can help remove buildup.

multivitamin daily,” he says. But there are some supplements out there with nutrients and vitamins that are essential for hair growth (see our rec below).

SCALP MASSAGER GRO Revitalizing Scalp Massager, $18, Vegamour.com

SCALP SCRUB Peppermint Avocado Scalp Scrub, $75, PhilipB.com

GROWTH SERUM GRO Scalp Detoxifying Serum, $42, Vegamour.com

HYDRATING TREATMENT Avocado + Kiwi Mega Moisture Superfood mask, $36, BriogeoHair.com

12/10/20 5:15 PM

Advertisement

Your love story is unique, and your wedding should be too.

Download The Knot app, your personal planner for your one-of-a-kind wedding Scan this QR code with your phone’s camera to download and start planning

Kaytee Lauren; Anna Delores Photography; Studio Finch; Theo Milo Photography; Danielle Bennink Photography; Milou + Olin Photography; You Look Lovely Photography

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11/20/20 12:53 PM

S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

FA S H I O N + B E A U T Y

MONIQUE LHUILLIER

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KT MERRY

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The wedding dress trends you need to know about—straight from Bridal Fashion Week. From dreamy ruffles to short-and-sassy numbers, there’s no shortage of ultra-chic inspo. Here’s a sneak peek of styles hitting salons near you in the coming months.

BY SHELLEY BROWN

12/10/20 5:34 PM

FASHION + BEAUTY

K AVIAR GAUCHE

MARCHESA

RIVINI

BY RITA VINIERIS

1 JUSTIN ALEX ANDER SIGNATURE

If there’s ever a time to indulge in some romance, your wedding day is it. It simply doesn’t get more romantic, whimsical or over-the-top (in a good way, of course) than this frilly detail.

TAR A KEELY

BY L AZARO

INES DI SANTO

LEGENDS ROMONA KEVEŽA

EISEN -STEIN

56

LIT TLE WHITE DRES S BY ANNE BARGE THE OTHER WHITE DRES S

BY MORILEE MADELINE GARDNER

2

REBECCA VALL ANCE

SHORT DRESSES

BY WAT TERS BHLDN

LIT TLE WHITE DRES S

BY AMSALE

ALLISON WEBB

NAEEM KHAN

VIK TOR&ROLF

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Planning a minimony or other low-key affair?

Look no further.

These flirty frocks are short on hemline— but big on personality.

MARCHESA: HAIFA WØHLERS OLSEN; NAEEM KHAN: @UKMARACAIBO; EISEN-STEIN: DUDI HASSON; VIKTOR & ROLF: MARIJKE AERDEN; ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF DESIGNERS

RUFFLES

12/10/20 5:37 PM

LET IT BE PERFECT From an intimate brunch to a lavish reception, create memories for a lifetime.

407-313-6745 • orlando.wedding@fourseasons.com www.fourseasons.com/orlando/weddings

FASHION + BEAUTY

GR ACY ACCAD

3 KELLY FAETANINI

SQUARE NECKLINES A true throwback, square necklines were popular during the Renaissance. Today, this geometric style that flatters the chest and shoulders is experiencing a serious fashion revival.

ELIZABETH FILLMORE

ASHEYORI BY KOSIBAH MORILEE MADELINE GARDNER

SAVANNAH MILLER

LEL A ROSE

ALEX ANDR A GRECCO

SAREH NOURI

58

BLIS S MONIQUE LHUILLIER

4

SLIP DRESSES JENNY BY JENNY YOO

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Made famous by style icons like Kate Moss, Gwyneth Paltrow and Carolyn BessetteKennedy in the ’90s, this slinky AF, curveskimming silhouette is all about channeling your inner “it” girl.

ALYNE BY RITA VINIERIS

DANIELLE FR ANKEL

GALVAN

BLISS MONIQUE LHUILLIER: JACK JEFFRIES FOR CHRISTIAN OTH STUDIO; JENNY BY JENNY YOO: KAT ALVAREZ; ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF DESIGNERS

VIVIENNE WEST WOOD

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FASHION + BEAUTY

JUSTIN ALEX ANDER SIGNATURE

CREPE

LIHI HOD

LUCIA BY ALLISON WEBB ANNE BARGE

K ATHARINE POLK

5

THEIA

Distinctly clean and crisp, crepe fabric is structured but lightweight enough to work for any season.

TLDR: If you’re no-fuss and you know it, this is the material for you.

ALEX ANDR A GRECCO

OSCAR DE L A RENTA

RIVINI BY RITA VINIERI VIVIENNE WEST WOOD

HAYLEY PAIGE

GALIA L AHAV

JENNY PACKHAM

PUFF SLEEVES Hear us out before you totally write off this trend. A far cry from the dated puffy sleeves of the ’80s, these gauzy versions add more subtle volume to any silhouette.

DANIELLE FR ANKEL

L AZARO

TEMPERLEY LONDON

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ANNE BARGE: @CHRISEANROSE; ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF DESIGNERS

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12/10/20 5:42 PM

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• BOUQUET & BOUTONNIÈRE—A graceful bouquet of long-stemmed fuchsia Dendrobium orchids and a boutonnière in vivid fuchsia, are the perfect accents.

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FASHION + BEAUTY

THE X FACTOR

RING LEADERS

THE

Fashionistas, this one’s for you. An unexpected X-shaped halo makes this sparkler feel totally of the moment.

The Nova ring, $2,260 (not including center stone), ApresJewelry.com

THE HOTTEST ENGAGEMENT RING AND WEDDING BAND TRENDS OF 2021 ARE BOLD, BEAUTIFUL AND ANYTHING BUT EXPECTED. GET READY TO THINK OUTSIDE THE (RING) BOX.

NEW CLASSIC

The classic signet ring gets a wedding-worthy upgrade with an eastwest marquise diamond.

Maverick signet ring, $3,200, JadeTrau.com

BY SHELLEY BROWN

SIMPLY STUNNING

Go for a minimalistic solitaire setting to let a striking center stone do the talking.

North-South Navette diamond solitaire ring, price upon request, Mociun.com

THE GLITTERATI

Subtlety not your thing? Bring on the bling with a halo plus a pavé band.

The Halo engagement ring, $2,640 (not including center stone), Vrai.com

THE

CUT

Marquise A dainty, negative space design serves cool bride glamour.

Marquise Crescendo pavé ring, $4,800, KatKimFineJewelry.com

COURTESY OF VENDORS

MODERN LOVE

Dating all the way back to the court of King Louis XV of France, this historic cut has a distinctive heirloom quality.

HE S

TO N E

Emerald

T

This green “it” gemstone symbolizes new beginnings—and is also undeniably gorgeous.

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CROWN JEWELS

LUSH LUXURY

Inspired by Indian forts and palaces, this opulent dazzler gives off regal vibes.

Dana Bronfman X Muzo Emeralds Agra Crown ring, $4,700, DanaBronfman.com

A brilliant emerald framed by baguettes wouldn’t look out of place on the red carpet.

Colombian cut emerald with baguette diamond halo, price upon request, Kwiat.com

12/10/20 5:56 PM

ING

E SE

TT

TH E B

AND

Toi et Moi

TH

French for “you and me,” a unique two-stone setting offers twice the sparkle.

DOUBLE DELIGHT

What’s better than one rock? Two! This asymmetrical design with complementary pear-shaped diamonds is a work of art.

Twin pear ring, $15,800, GraceLee.com

Statement Maker Standalone bands have a chic, unisex vibe.

Another plus? They’re also easy to sanitize.

THE HUE

Blue

MAXIMUM IMPACT

There’s nothing understated about this look—and that’s the point.

A thicker band with a smattering of diamonds is sure to turn heads.

The Babs ring, price upon request, AlisonLou.com

Calling all mermaids: A lustrous blue gemstone will give your bling a pretty, mystical feel.

IN RAINBOWS COSMIC STYLE

Varying blue gems create an ethereal ombré effect inspired by the night sky.

Grand Devotion Midnight ring, $2,800, TheManiaMania.com

Whether you want to give a nod to Pride or love rainbow stones, this band is a celebration of color.

Meridian Rainbow band, $1,300, AnnaSheffield.com

WITH A TWIST

63

An über-luxe riff on the eternity ring, this elongated spiral design holds its own.

Mamba ring, $4,830, CarbonandHyde.com

MOODY REMIX

It’s not a regular three-stone ring: It’s a cool three-stone ring.

A sapphire center stone and blackened platinum refresh a traditional setting.

The Tré Three Stones ring, price upon request, EvaFehren.com

MARINE LIFE

Dive deep into the monochromatic trend with an aquamarine and complementary blue diamonds.

Oceans aquamarine and blue diamond ring, $1,950, YiCollection.com

RETRO REDUX

Far from your standard solid-metal cigar band, this diamondencrusted one feels au courant.

Cigar ring, $11,000, EmilyPWheeler.com

PERFECTLY PETITE

CHARMED LIFE

STAR POWER

Bigger isn’t better.

This understated style with an offset emerald adds personality to any wedding set.

Defne pavé ring, $1,450, SelinKent.com

A bejeweled evil eye works as both a talisman and a oneof-a-kind choice.

Evil Eye emerald and diamond ring, $3,780, Shay, MaterialGood.com

Celestial bands play up the boho-chic vibe of this interconnected emerald stack.

Green Light rolling ring, $3,060, AshleyZhangJewelry.com

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12/10/20 5:57 PM

FASHION + BEAUTY

myths It’s your day, so don’t be afraid to think— and dress—outside the box.

Here are six suiting rules grooms can totally break.

PAT T E R N P L AY

BY JAIME BUERGER

This colorful, patterned tux puts a fashionforward twist on a timeless look.

MYTH NO. 1 YOU HAVE TO SPEND A MILLION BUCKS TO LOOK LIKE A MILLION BUCKS.

Of course you don’t want to show up to your wedding in an ill-fitting suit you borrowed from an old roommate, but you also don’t want to spend so much on your look that you can’t swing your dream Parisian honeymoon. The middle ground, of course, is a tuxedo or suit rental, which is economical if you're not going to wear it more than once a year. The cost of a new tux or suit varies wildly—they can start around $500 and go way up from there—but a rental will only set you back about $200 on average. Even better news: Long gone are the days when a rental meant a boxy shape and limited color choices. Now guys can customize fit, neckwear, lapel styles and more. The result is a sharper, slimmer and more personal look—at a price tag that still allows for all the wine, cheese and baguettes you want on said honeymoon.

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MYTH NO. 2 YOU SHOULDN’T WEAR SNEAKERS WITH A SUIT OR TUX.

To which we say: why not? Sneakers or casual shoes, besides being more comfortable than classic dress shoes, can be super-stylish too. And as more grooms embrace them, the more common they’ve become for wedding wear. Another plus? They’re also an easy way to inject personality and a little fun into your getup. If your wedding is on the more laid-back and casual side, a trainers-clad groom is right on the money.

(And if you’re having a more formal ceremony, you can always change into sneaks when it’s time to tear up the dance floor.)

A word to the wise: Don’t just throw on your ratty old running or gym shoes and call it a day; the casual shoes you choose, like the suit or tux you pair them with, should be clean, tidy and ready for their close-up. MYT H N O . 7

MYTH NO. 3 SOCK COLOR MUST MATCH PANTS COLOR.

That might have been true when you were a little kid and your mom dressed you in your Sunday best, but for the modern man, nothing makes a sartorial statement quite like a pair of flashy socks. Sporting a favorite team’s logo, wearing fun patterns, or even forgoing socks altogether (with the right shoes, of course) are all acceptable, playful ways to stand out.

FROM LEFT: NATALIE PROBST PHOTOGRAPHY; APOLLO FOTOGRAFIE; MECCA GAMBLE PHOTOGRAPHY

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E

ven if the last word you’d use to describe yourself is “clotheshorse,” your wedding day is still a chance to pull out all the stops where attire is concerned. For most grooms, that means a sharp suit or tailored tux, a high-quality dress shirt that fits just so, a polished pair of kicks and maybe even a cool new set of cufflinks. But all too often, true self-expression is missing from a groom’s uniform. While you can—and should—look to established rules of dress to guide your choices, you also shouldn’t be afraid to flout them and show some personality. With a huge selection of menswear brands and styles to choose from, it’s easy to put together a one-of-a-kind look that will give you your spotlight moment. Below, we debunk some of the most commonly cited formalwear fashion rules that every groom should consider myths—not mandates.

12/10/20 6:19 PM

W H I T E H OT

A white tux is crisp AF and works for any time of day or night.

MYTH NO. 4 BLACK TIE EQUALS A BLACK TUX WITH A BOW TIE.

Remember prom, when every guy showed up in his formal best: a black jacket with a shawl collar, black pants with a shiny satin stripe, and a solid-color bow tie (pre-knotted, of course) with a matching vest? When you’re 17, you don’t know better, but grown-up grooms have no excuse.

These days, it can be difficult to tell the difference between a suit and tuxedo, as the most telltale features of the latter—satin-faced lapels, satin buttons and a satin side-stripe down the pant leg—have become ever more subtle. And though the satin bow tie might be etched in your mind as the definitive tux-worthy accessory, there’s no real reason why you can’t wear a long tie if that’s what you prefer. All that said, it’s getting easier and more acceptable to bend the rules when it comes to a black-tie event. Tuxedos now come in a rainbow of hues and even patterns and work for formal nuptials just as well as the OG black version. Bottom line: You shouldn’t feel limited to a traditional penguin suit and accessories, no matter the time of day or night.

MYTH NO. 5 BLACK-TIE ATTIRE SHOULDN’T BE WORN BEFORE 6 P.M.

This brings us to our next menswear myth. With all due respect to Emily Post, the decree that a formal event isn’t, in fact, formal if held during daylight hours is a fussy distinction that seems to be going the way of the ascot. Just because your ceremony will be in the afternoon doesn’t mean you can’t up the formality level. As mentioned above, the distinction between a suit and a tuxedo can be hard to suss out for most people anyway.

MYTH NO. 6 BIGGER GUYS SHOULDN’T WEAR SLIM-FIT SUITS.

BE JEWELED

You don’t have to get too matchy-matchy with your partner.

Complementary jewel-tone tuxes make for a polished pair.

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The faulty logic here is that the bigger you are, the more fabric you need to camouflage your shape—but that couldn’t be more wrong. In reality, lots of extra fabric only serves to overwhelm your body and make you appear larger than you really are. Contrary to what you might think, slim- or modern-fit suits and tuxes are flattering on a range of body types, even if you’re renting and not buying something custom-made. For the slimmest silhouette, a well-cut suit jacket will make you appear more angular and sharp overall. If you opt to buy your suit or tux, a professional tailor can alter it and make it contour to your specific proportions, resulting in a streamlined look with the most flattering fit.

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FASHION + BEAUTY

DIY BEAUTY If you’re planning a minimony, virtual bachelorette or other socially distanced gathering, the thought of pulling off camera-ready glam can be intimidating. But don’t stress—we’ve got you covered.

Celebrity makeup artist Monika Blunder breaks down how to master four trendy techniques, so you can look flawless at all of your wedding-related events, including the ones over Zoom.

BY SHELLEY BROWN

CAT EYE

BOLD BROWS

STEP 1 Prep your eyes with a concealer to cover up any

STEP 1 Comb your brow hairs up with a spoolie brush.

discoloration or veins and then set with a loose powder.

Use tweezers to remove any stray hairs—but don’t over-pluck.

Don’t tweeze any hairs that fall within your natural arch.

application tips will help you create precise lines, while the quick-dry formula will prevent any smudging.

STEP 3 To apply the liner, lower your eyelid (but don’t close it all of the way), so you have a smooth surface to draw on.

STEP 4 Draw a line from the outer corner of your eye at

an upward angle. To get the right wing for your eye shape, visualize a line that stretches to your outer brow bone; it should follow the same angle as your outermost eyelash.

ZOOM TIP Eye makeup can appear duller on screen,

so go for a more dramatic look by bringing the wing of your liner out and up further than you normally would.

STEP 2 Use a brow pencil that’s one shade darker than your

hair color. Slightly bolder brows will frame your face, balance the rest of your makeup and make your eyes pop.

STEP 3 Following your natural brow shape, use the pencil

to draw fine, hair-like strokes to fill in sparse areas and define your arch as well as the tails of your brows.

STEP 4 Apply a brow gel to add texture and set your brows.

ZOOM TIP For more definition, add some extra length to

the tail of your brows. To make sure you don’t extend them too far, use the straight end of a makeup brush as a guide, angling it from the outer corner of your eye to your brow.

STATEMENT LIPS STEP 1

Thoroughly exfoliate your lips (a homemade mix

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of sugar and honey is an easy solve) and slather on lip balm so your color will go on without flaking or creasing.

STEP 2 Apply a lip liner to define your cupid’s bow

to create definition and enhance the fullness of your lips.

Use a matte, neutral color that’s a shade or two darker than your natural lip color—but don’t go too dark.

STEP 3 Once you’ve lined your lips, apply lipstick in your

CONTOUR STEP 1 Choose a contour color that’s one or two shades

deeper than your natural skin tone.

STEP 2 After applying your foundation, sweep the contouring product along your cheekbones, hairline, jawline, the bridge of your nose and in the creases of your eyelids.

STEP 4 Before blending, tap on a little bit of blush over

the apples of your cheeks. Then blend in the contouring makeup and blush in one circular movement.

desired color. It’s best to avoid high-shine lipsticks and lip glosses, because they generally don’t photograph as well.

STEP 5 With a clean brush, blend the remaining contouring

ZOOM TIP Even if a bold lip isn’t your thing, use a matte

STEP 6 Apply a sheer bronzer to set your contoured areas.

lipstick in a vibrant shade (think: red, deep berry or bright pink) to keep from looking washed out. The screen will automatically tone down even the splashiest colors.

ZOOM TIP Choose a contouring product that’s three

product into the rest of your face.

shades darker than your skin tone. It may look intense IRL, but your bone structure will look extra-sculpted virtually.

PRO PICKS MATTE LIP COLOR

BROW PENCIL

BROW GEL

CONTOURING PRODUCT

LIQUID EYELINER

Radiant Liquid Rouge Matte liquid lipstick in Silk Kimono, $50, Clé de Peau Beauté, Nordstrom.com

Brow Wiz brow pencil in Ash Brown, $23, Anastasia Beverly Hills, Sephora.com

Boy Brow grooming pomade in Brown, $16, Glossier.com

Nudies Bronze cream bronzer in Beach Babe, $32, NudeStix.com

Intensifying liquid eyeliner in 1 Black, $55, Clé de Peau Beauté, Bloomingdales.com

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MAKEUP: GETTY IMAGES; PRODUCTS: COURTESY OF VENDORS; GETTY IMAGES; SCISSORS: KYLIE HANA/NOUN PROJECT

STEP 2 Use a double-ended liquid liner. The two different

12/10/20 6:11 PM

Mel Barlow & Co.

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11/20/20 10:31 AM

S P R I N G 2 0 2 1

S T Y LE+PL A N N I NG

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BY L AU R E N K AY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN BRANCH IV PHOTOGRAPHY P L A N N I N G A N D D E S I G N BY DAV I S ROW FLORALS BY WYLDE VENUE THE GRAHAM MILL

i do

CELEBRATING IN THE SHADOW OF COVID-19 CAN BE DONE—SAFELY—WITHOUT SACRIFICING STYLE OR SUBSTANCE. HERE’S HOW TO MAKE IT MEMORABLE.

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STYLE + PLANNING

BE SEATED Opt for a plated dinner in lieu of a buffet, seating guests at smaller tables with their families.

GET THE LOOK

INTIMATE ELEGANCE

A LT H O U G H I T M AY L O O K D I F F E R E N T THAN YOU IMAGINED, IT WILL S T I L L B E I N C R E D I B LY S P E C I A L .

The pandemic has changed the way we can celebrate, but love carries on.

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MAGNIFICENT MAIL Make your wedding invites shine—quite literally—with a fun typeface and foil that shouts party!

DAVIS: COREY TORPIE

Most to-be-weds never expected to plan (or host) a wedding during a global pandemic.

The good news? You can still get married and celebrate with your loved ones. First up, follow CDC guidelines to ensure the safety of yourselves and your guests. Then, keep everyone informed about precautions and plans as they evolve —we’re all in this together! Next, turn up the style—pick a party anthem and bring it to life. Impress guests with invites that sparkle and opt for elegant tablescapes that feel intimate but still a little extra (hello, napkin rings). Add memorable details throughout, like welcome boxes, safely spaced entertainment and an epic cake. Although it may look different than you imagined, it will still be incredibly special. And best of all, you’ll be official.

12/10/20 6:34 PM

TIPS FROM A PRO Allison Davis of Davis Row shares her best advice for a COVID-times celebration.

REVOLVING PARTY

REMEMBER YOUR WHY

Create entertainment and lounge vignettes throughout your event space, keeping guests engaged and safely distanced.

Passed signature sips can minimize bar traffic too.

Your plans may change once (or three times) because of COVID, but ultimately it’s about your union.

TAKE IT OUTSIDE Make adjustments for safer gatherings, like an indooroutdoor space that allows for good airflow.

SHRINK YOUR LIST

TURN UP

Opt for intimate “I dos” and offer a virtual component; then have a sequel wedding to celebrate your anniversary.

THE STYLE— P I C K A PA R T Y ANTHEM AND BRING IT

BIGGER BUDGET A smaller guest list may mean you have more budget to play with, aka extra details that wow!

TO LIFE .

Let your dessert double as décor. Gold geometric details and fresh florals are the perfect accents.

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SPREAD ONLY LOVE

TEXTURED TIERS

Share the precautions you’re taking with your guests, so they’ll know what to expect ahead of your celebration.

WARM WELCOME Greet guests with festive essentials, like a custom embroidered mask or regional sweet and savory treats.

Rentals, CottageLuxe.com; tabletop rentals: CERental.com; linens, LaTavolaLinen.com; stationery, EphemeraDesign.com; boxes, DMalibyKishaDamali.com; masks, AGRHandmade, Etsy.com; hair and makeup, Alter-Image.com; gown, RomonaKeveza.com; bridal boutique, WhiteBridalBoutiques.com; cake, SugarEuphoria.com

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12/10/20 6:36 PM

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THINGS WE’RE LOVING

NEW YEAR, NEW IDEAS TO CHEERS TO—BECAUSE EVEN IN A PANDEMIC, #LOVEISNOTCANCELED.

BY LAUREN KEY

SMALLER BUT

The biggest trend in weddings is a direct result of the pandemic and couples having to cleverly shift their plans. In-person guest lists have been cut to ensure safe celebrations, while budgets are staying mostly the same.

This means the guest experience is center stage, with elaborate arrangements, thoughtful details and incredible entertainment.

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PHOTO CREDIT

BIGGER

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STYLE + PLANNING

T H E W E LC O M E BAG

Let Marigold & Grey help you assemble a custom box.

MarigoldGrey.com

T U R N E D B OX As the pandemic rages on, couples are looking for ways to safely thank their guests for celebrating alongside them. The welcome bag has turned into a welcome box, something usually reserved for destination affairs.

These boxes are chock-full of supplies to make the wedding day safer and more memorable for guests, from hand sanitizer to custom masks and splits of champagne.

Couples are delighting those who attend virtually too, preparing a curated box of treats so guests can celebrate from their living rooms too.

2 Color is coming in hot—and we’re here for it! After a drab 2020, couples are embracing the rainbow, opting for a palette that speaks to their vibe and style. Moodboosting hues like coral, mustard and flame will be all the rage, while lilac, French blue and matcha will bring a sense of calm to the chaos.

Earth tones will play a supporting role and hints of metallic will add shine to any celebration.

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4 NOSTALGIA After a year like 2020 it’s no surprise that everyone is reevaluating what really matters.

Many couples are leaning into nostalgia, including fun details from their childhoods (hello, ’90s!). Think a cooler of Capri-Suns, Dunkaroos on the dessert table and neon necklaces on the dance floor. Tradition is playing a role in the planning too, with couples borrowing their parents’ cake topper or putting their grandparents’ song on the playlist.

W E E K D AY W E D D I N G S Saturday night isn’t the only time to say “I do.” Due to postponed nuptials and the steady stream of engagements, Saturday nights are booked more than a year out!

Many couples are shifting plans to a Friday night or even a weekday soiree.

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FROM LEFT: CORINNA ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY; ELIZABETH BURGI PHOTOGRAPHY; JOHN CASERTA/NOUN PROJECT; MARY COSTA PHOTOGRAPHY; COURTESY OF MARIGOLD & GREY

BOLD HUES

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STYLE + PLANNING

7 UNEXPECTED VENUES

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Smaller celebrations have opened up a world of possibilities. A backyard or quaint barn may have been out of the question for 100 guests, but it’s now quite possible with only 30 friends and family members joining in person.

Restaurants, small gardens and historic sites are on the rise as ideal spots to say “I do.”

AR FOR REAL Technology has always played a role in the wedding scene, but this year it’s changing the game. From virtual dress try-ons to invitations, augmented reality is trending. As couples plan from home, venues are leaning into visual planning experiences to showcase options.

Some to-be-weds are even using AR to make at-home guests feel included in the fun.

8 GRAB +

GO BAR Minimizing wait time for a drink is always awesome, but it’s especially important in COVID times. Enter the self-serve bar, complete with pre-poured wine and canned cocktails. Packaged beverage options have gotten more sophisticated recently, from single splits of champagne to fiveingredient canned cocktails made by expert mixologists.

Canned cocktails #FTW. SocialHourCocktails.com

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S E N T I M E N TA L S E T T I N G S

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Table settings are becoming increasingly intimate—for starters, guests are safely distanced and seated with their pod when possible. Cue the elaborate details! Expect to see layered china, thoughtfully selected glassware, patterned linens and personalized menus. Flowers and candles will be a big part of the tablescape too.

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GRANDMILLENNIAL VIBES

This is not your grandma’s style—but it’s pretty close. It’s a fresh take on a design vibe that many 20-to-30-somethings grew up with, lovingly referred to as granny chic—think sweet patterns, chintz and effortless formality.

The style is “trend adverse,” forging a new traditionalist outlook. In weddings, expect an intentional layering of colors and patterns with elaborate table décor and lots of flowers—both in the design elements (invites, fabrics) and in the form of lush arrangements. And yes, Granny will absolutely approve.

12 TINY TOA STS

COORDINATED DRESS CODES A pared-down guest list means more photos of the same people—heck, maybe more photos of all the people! As such, some couples are viewing attire as part of the décor. Coordinating color palettes and style are very likely. Expect some couples to ditch the formalwear request in favor of something more casual or even color-specific.

While a best man or woman is generally asked to give a toast on behalf of the couple, now expect other guests to be called on to say a few words too. We’ve dubbed these “tiny toasts,” where the couple solicits friends and family to share a fond memory of the newlyweds.

FROM LEFT: BRIDGET BADORE; COURTESY OF SOCIAL HOUR COCKTAILS; STUDIO ETINCELLE; VECTORS POINT, PK/NOUN PROJECT; STOCKSY; EMILY WREN PHOTOGRAPHY; EMILIA JANE PHOTOGRAPHY; ABDERRAOUF OMARA/NOUN PROJECT

PAT T E R N

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+ TEXTURE Couples are making their celebrations as special as ever by layering on the decor. Pattern and texture are the new “wedding colors” and can be found everywhere from leafy greens to luxe invites. Adding an extra element to an already thoughtful design really takes it to the next level.

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PURCHASING WITH PURPOSE

To-be-weds are planning with intention, seeking out vendors that share their values. Some couples are hiring an all-female team, while others are prioritizing things of importance to them, like sustainability, or giving back to the community. Because more and more weddings are happening closer to home, an emphasis on local goods and services continues to trend.

15 VIRTUAL GUESTS As a way to include everyone in the celebration, couples are adding a virtual element to their nuptials. It may be a Zoom link and a stationary camera or a pro team editing the live happenings in real time. This is great for ceremonies that had to be scaled down in size due to the pandemic, or perfect for guests who are unable to travel. Virtual receiving lines are now a thing too!

17 THE NANOMOON

AT-HOME COMFORTS Honeymoon funds were all the rage pre-COVID, when you could travel almost anywhere. But now couples are spending their cash funds on gifts for use while sheltering in place. From virtual wine tastings to CSA subscriptions and renovations, to-be-weds are registering for things that will make spending time at home sweeter. They’re also embracing new hobbies and stocking up on supplies—think beer-making kits and raised gardens.

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Since international travel is out of the question for many couples, newlyweds are embracing the idea of a local “nanomoon.” They may spend a long weekend touring a nearby winery or visiting a national park within driving distance of their hometowns. Unlike minimoons, which have been popular in the past, the nanomoon is very low-key, allowing room in the budget for a major trip once travel restrictions are lifted.

FROM LEFT: JOHNNY MILLER; SHUTTERSTOCK; FREDERICK YETTE; GREGOR CRESNAR/NOUN PROJECT; AMANDA WEI PHOTOGRAPHY; LARISSA CLEVELAND; VALORIE DARLING PHOTOGRAPHY COLLECTIVE; SMS PHOTOGRAPHY

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STYLE + PLANNING

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FLOWER POWER Flowers are synonymous with weddings— but this year it’s all about the statement arrangements. Details are more important than ever to couples, which means the florals will be thoughtfully selected: think meaningful stems and intentional color choices. From altar “nests” to potted trees enhancing an outdoor reception, blooms and greens will play a prominent role in décor.

FA I RY L I G H T S With so many celebrations taking place outdoors (or with an outdoor component), fairy lights are the illumination du jour. They are a powerful way to create an intimate atmosphere in a big space and provide requisite lighting after the sun goes down.

They are also a great accent indoors too.

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S I N G L E - S E R V E E AT S

Buffets are a thing of the past— at least for now. But what’s emerged is a super-personalized dining experience.

Think picnic baskets for one, individual charcuterie plates and cake in a jar.

Best of all, you aren’t expected to share!

Plated presentation will be epic too, as chefs get creative with how they serve each course for a seated meal.

E N T E R TA I N M E N T EXPERIENCES In an effort to wow guests—safely—couples are seeking out entertainment experiences.

These performances are often meant to be enjoyed from the comfort of assigned seats and include everything from singers to comedians to cabaret-like dance numbers.

Satellite entertainment continues to trend too, with tarot card readers, live painters and celebrity impersonators (“Elvis, is that you?”).

Find more inspo at TH E KN OT.CO M/PL AN N IN G

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12/10/20 6:51 PM

STYLE + PLANNING

in 80

BL

OO M NUPTIALS IN NATURE ARE ALL THE RAGE. CHANNEL THE FRESH FEEL OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS WITH A POLISHED YET PLAYFUL GARDEN PARTY.

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12/10/20 7:01 PM

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BY L AU R E N K AY PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER NICOLE PHOTOGRAPHY FLORALS AND DESIGN BY TRACEY REYNOLDS FLORAL DESIGN PLANNING BY H E AT H E R B E N G E E V E N TS VENUE PARK CHÂTEAU ESTATE & GARDENS

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BOLD + BRIGHT Your wedding invite clues guests in to the vibe and style of your celebration— so make the design count. This floral medley is refined yet playful, a fitting nod to a colorful garden soiree.

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STYLE + PLANNING

WILD FLOWERS A vibrant, hand-tied bouquet of roses, sweet peas and daisies feels justpicked, perfectly complementing the lush locale.

LAYERED UP Mixing patterns and textures allows you to thoughtfully add color.

Here, a floral napkin ties in centerpieces, while a tinted goblet adds an extra pop to the design.

ON THE RECORD Music lovers? Funk up your table assignments with mini records and name help from some of the greats.

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FRESH FASHION A sleek lace gown and bold blue suit are both unexpected and impeccable choices for an outdoor-meets-indoor affair.

Opposite page: Stationery, JesSmithDesigns.com. Clockwise from top left: Linens, NuageDesigns.com; tabletop rentals, LovelyLuxeRentals.com; furniture rentals, LuxeEventRentals .com; gown, NettaBenShabu.com; bridal salon, SolutionsBridal.com; shoes, BellaBelleShoes.com; menswear, GenerationTux.com; hair and makeup, SunkissedandMadeUp.com

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STYLE + PLANNING

PERFECTLY PLATED Mix and match your table settings—whimsical scalloped-edge plates and modern gold flatware give off chic vibes.

Colorful napkins and menus complete the look.

SWEET ENDINGS

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Can’t settle on one cake?

Go for three. Each half of this duo got their preferred flavor pairing, plus a towering, hand-painted confection for guests to share.

Cake, ItStartedWithACupcake.com

GARDEN VIBES Exchange vows in a floral “nest,” which can double as a backdrop for photos.

This one was assembled with potted plants guests could take home and add to their own yards.

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SUNNY SPACES A small guest count can unlock a world of venue possibilities, like a sunroom with pocket doors that open for an easy transition from ceremony to reception.

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STYLE + PLANNING

Real talk: Deciding which appliances to put on your wish list can suck the fun out of the whole deal—so many models, so many features.

So we did the work for you, weighing in on the six mostregistered-for items based on our annual The Knot Registry Study. Plus, we’ve offered up our favorite picks in each category, so you can choose the best of the best with complete confidence.

BY L AU R E N K AY

WINNING PICKS FOR THE

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MOST STOCKSY

REGISTERED ITEMS

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12/11/20 12:02 PM

S TA N D M I X E R S One of the most popular of all kitchen appliances, the stand mixer can make baking a breeze. But which model is the right investment?

From precision to looks and versatility, we’ve got you covered.

Choose from 47 colors and make everything from ice cream to veggie pasta!

K I TC H E N A I D A R T I S A N 5 QT S TA N D M I X E R

H A M I LTO N B E AC H E L E C T R I C S TA N D M I X E R

SMEG S TA N D M I X E R

The holy grail of mixers, this beauty has a five-quart, stainless-steel bowl and a 325-watt motor for endless culinary possibilities.

Ten speeds and a slew of additional attachments from pasta maker to vegetable spiralizer make this a kitchen staple than can last a lifetime. $280, BedBathandBeyond.com

Get classic stand mixer features like a tilt-up head design, seven speeds and hands-free mixing—but for a fraction of the price. It holds four quarts and comes with accessories including a dough hook and splash guard. You can even choose from a few happy hues for a color-coordinated kitchen. $100, Amazon.com

Don’t let the retro look fool you. This 10-speed powerhouse has all the bells and whistles, plus serious countertop appeal. Fun colors and other coordinating appliances (the two-slice copper toaster is epic) make this the perfect choice for a style-savvy duo. $460, Williams-Sonoma.com

VACUUMS

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Having a kick-ass vacuum can make the chore of cleaning up more fun—no, really. When seeking the right one, take into consideration your floors (hardwood vs. carpet), current or future pets, and the need for portability.

Clean all the rooms with two hours of power!

Gone are the days of built-in systems with in-wall wiring. Some of the best sound is now portable—and affordable. From lightweight models to true powerhouses, here are three solid picks perfect for blasting the beats.

DYS O N V 1 1 O U T S I Z E Lightweight, versatile and cordless, this stick vacuum is a worthy investment. It does floors, carpets and even the back seat of your car thanks to a quick-release handheld feature.

No bags and Dyson filtration technology capture allergens and bacteria, leaving you with a clean and healthy home. $800, Dyson.com

i R O B OT R O O M B A S 9 + Want someone to clean up after you—and itself?

This is your vacuum. An automatic disposal allows the Roomba to empty itself after 60 days.

Amazing technology provides a detailed and powerful clean, eliminating debris—even in carpets. It also has an anti-allergen system built in, trapping pollen and mold instantly. $1,100, iRobot.com

B I S S E L L P E T H A I R E R A S E R T U R B O P LU S If you’re sharing your home with a pet or two, this Bissell is your best bet. In addition to powerful suction—take that, pet hair—this upright includes a tangle-free brush and an allergen system. It even has a Febreze filter to trap dust and eliminate odors. But best of all, every Bissell purchase, big or small, gives back to pets in need. $230, Bissell.com

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PORTABLE SPEAKERS

JBL XTREME 2 BLUETOOTH SPEAKER Fifteen hours of portable play time and high-quality sound make this speaker an easy choice. You can connect two Bluetooth devices to it simultaneously, allowing you both to play DJ. Better still, the speaker is waterproof, making it the perfect companion for beach or boat trips. $350, BestBuy.com

SONOS ONE Small in size but big in features, this speaker delivers impeccable sound with built-in voice control.

Fill the room with your favorite music or ask Alexa to set an alarm. Best of all, the One can be connected wirelessly to other Sonos speakers, building a full home experience. $200, Sonos.com

ULTIMATE EARS HYPERBOOM This speaker comes to party!

With a big bass and 150-foot sound range, it’s perfect for filling a backyard with beats.

The 13-pound, Bluetooth-enabled design also boasts a 24-hour battery life and splash resistance, making it highly portable. $400, Amazon.com

12/10/20 7:14 PM

STYLE + PLANNING

TVS

IRONS/STEAMERS Most people fall into one of two camps: iron devotee or steamer fanatic. Either way, a tool to combat wrinkles should be on your wish list. Shop for a reliable model that will get the job done efficiently, without damaging your clothing.

Registering for a TV may have felt a bit strange back in 2019. But after months at home, an upgraded (or larger) model may be topping your wish list. Whether you’re a binge-watcher, gamer or are looking for a sleeker set, we’ve got options.

M AY TAG M 4 0 0 S P E E D H E AT This iron lives up to its name, reaching optimal temps in less than a minute. A precision thermostat allows you to adjust heat based on fabrics, while a vertical steam feature makes it possible to remove wrinkles from hanging garments. And it cleans itself. $45, Amazon.com

SAMSUNG FRAME

R O W E N TA X- C E L S T E A M + Diminish wrinkles without water leaks!

Think of this TV as a two-for-one deal. It’s got amazing picture quality and sound thanks to 4K technology, but when the TV’s off, you can use it to display your favorite artwork. Buy a single piece of art or subscribe to an ever-changing library of choices. You can even customize the color of the “frame” so it blends with your décor.

From $600, Samsung.com

Steam wrinkles and kill bacteria (goodbye dust mites) with this lightweight powerhouse. It heats up in just 40 seconds with regular tap water and steams continuously for 10 minutes, allowing you to refresh everything from clothing to curtains with ease. $70, BedBathandBeyond.com

R O W E N TA S T E A M F O R C E I R O N Combat the toughest wrinkles with 1800 watts of power and a stainlesssteel soleplate with 400 Microsteam holes for even distribution (read: less iron time). There’s even a vertical function for tackling hanging garments. A precision tip ensures a perfect press every time. $140, Williams-Sonoma.com

TCL 6-SERIES 4K TV

SONY CLASS X 900H

The picture quality combined with the tech make it a total winner. It has seamless voice control (“Alexa, change the channel”) plus four HDMI inputs that make connecting all your favorite devices a breeze.

From $800, Amazon.com

Gamers, take note: X-Motion Clarity tech eliminates blur while 4K resolution provides a picture anyone can appreciate. Built-in streaming offers endless entertainment—when the game’s over, Netflix and chill.

From $1000, BestBuy.com

COFFEE MAKERS Maybe you’re a full-on bean connoisseur or maybe you’re just here for the caffeine fix. Thanks to new technology, many brewers offer a variety of different features that cater to both kinds of coffee drinkers.

Choose from dozens of roasts with varying intensity plus limited-edition pods!

COURTESY OF VENDORS

CUISINART COFFEE CENTER If you ask us, this offers the best of both worlds: a strong pot that serves 12, plus a single-cup brewer that’s K-cup compatible. It’s fully automatic, with the ability to control brew strength so your coffee is just the way you like it. Oh, and it self-cleans. Need we say more? $200, Cuisinart.com

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NESPRESSO PIXIE

CAFÉ DRIP

This compact maker is perfect for espresso-loving city dwellers who are short on space. The Pixie heats up fast and delivers a hot shot of espresso in seconds. Choose from dozens of flavors and limited-edition pods, all of which can be recycled. $200, Nespresso.com

This is one savvy drip coffee maker, with a showstopping design and features to match.

You can adjust the temperature controls and brew settings for a personalized brew—and you can even ask Alexa for a cup thanks to built-in Wi-Fi. The sleek design includes cord storage and copper accents. $280, BestBuy.com

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Although we were excited about the celebration, what we were looking forward to most was getting married. Just five years ago, we would not have been able to wed legally. We were grateful to get to have this moment after so many fought to make it a reality.

-Yasmin PHOTOGRAPH BY EVAN RICH

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Yasmin + Nohelia . .

02 29 20 | MIAMI, FL

J OY F U L J E W E L S P H OTO G R A P H S BY E VA N R I C H E V E N T P L A N N I N G BY A LWAYS & A LWAYS E V E N TS

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LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT “Both of us chose the first dress we tried on,” says Yasmin (left) of their attire.

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LOUNGE VIBES Instead of having a fully seated reception, the couple had a variety of lounge groupings because they “wanted guests to focus on celebrating and dancing. We did not want to do a sit-down dinner that would take away from that.” PUPPY LOVE For the largest of their three cakes, Yasmin and Nohelia commissioned a topper showcasing their dogs. CIGARS AND BOURBON The duo wanted to create an area that was representative of Nohelia, so they decked out a gold bar cart with three varieties of bourbon, a box of Cuban cigars and ingredients for guests to make their own Old Fashioneds. They also had three specialty cocktails, named after their pups. When booking mixologists, hiring an LGBTQ-owned company was a decision the couple felt strongly about.

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iven their “very special appreciation for nature, trees and flowers,” exchanging vows in a botanical garden was a simple choice for Yasmin Gomez (35 and a wedding planner) and Nohelia Rodriguez (36 and a restaurant manager). For their intimate ceremony among towering willow trees, only Yasmin’s and Nohelia’s families and closest friends attended. Later in the evening they welcomed a larger group of loved ones to a glam reception with an emerald, ruby, sapphire, mustard and fuchsia palette.

“We felt bold colors represented who we are and how we wanted the wedding to feel,” they share. “Our focus was to celebrate love and, to us, that meant a lot of dancing and laughing, plus plenty of food and drink.

We wanted our guests to focus on having the best time possible.” — HAN NAH N OWAC K

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YA S M I N + N O H E L I A WEDDING STYLE A sophisticated affair dripping in Elegance and modern Glamour. Wed at a loft, botanical garden or even a regal ballroom.

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COLOR PALETTE S PAR K LI N G J E WE L TO N ES

Vibrant fuchsia, indigo, emerald and antique gold with copper accents.

6 MUST-HAVES PROC ES S I O NAL TU N ES Both brides walked down

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the aisle to Elton John’s “Your Song.”

SWE ET TOOTH In addition to cake, the decadent dessert menu included a chocolate fountain, s’mores station, key lime pies, cheesecake and candy apples.

L ATE- N I G HT S NAC KS To keep party-goers’

1 Ball gown wedding dress in sizes up to 24, $3,275, KellyFaetanini.com 2 Velvet vow booklet, $45 for set of 2, PaperPlumCo, Etsy.com 3 Scarlett classic double ring box, $85, TheMrsBox.com 4 Monaco earrings, $54, OliveandPiper.com 5 A-line wedding dress in sizes up to 18, $1,595, BHLDN.com 6 Vibrant floral wedding invitations, $199 for set of 100, TheKnot .com 7 Terrace bar cart, $399, WestElm.com

energy up, the couple had Wendy’s burgers and fries passed on the dance floor.

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C E R E M O NY S ITE Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Coral Gables, FL R ECEPTI O N S ITE Aria on the Bay, Miami, FL PH OTOG R APHY Evan Rich VI D EOG R APHY Dana Lynn Photography E VE NT PL AN N I N G Always & Always Events FLO R AL D ES I G N Ever After Floral Design O FFI CIANT Eddie Rodriguez GOWN S Yasmin: Calla Blanche; Nohelia: La Sposa from La Vie En Blanc, Miami, FL S H O ES Yasmin: Badgley Mischka; Nohelia: Bella Belle J E WE LRY Olive + Piper E N G AG E M E NT + WE D D I N G R I N G S Zales HAI R + MAK EU P Makeup Artistry by Jessie I NVITATI O N S Minted.com R E NTAL S Contempo Linens; Event Factor; Mi Vintage CATE R I N G Cielito; bartending: Bar Lucha CAK E Elegant Temptations M U S I C Ceremony: AA Musicians Quartet; guitarist: Alyssa McDoom; DJ: Event Factor PH OTO BOOTH Dipp Photo Booth HAS HTAG #YasAndNoeTakeTheLeap

#MAKETRADITION

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It was important to Yasmin and Nohelia to find a way to honor their late pup Hershey. “Even when he was 14 years old, he still played with toys like he was a puppy. His favorite was a squeaky squirrel. At the reception we had squirrel toys with a sign explaining these were his favorite toy. Our hope was for other dogs to play with the same squishy squirrel and honor his memory along the way.”

Our oldest doggie, Hershey, passed away one month before the wedding. It was the most difficult thing for us to endure.

-Nohelia

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Tasha + Zach

02.02.20 | VISTA , CA

A WA L K I N T H E WO O D S P H OTO G R A P H S BY R E B EC CA YA L E P H OTO G RA P H Y E V E N T P L A N N I N G BY A M O RO LO GY

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RUSTIC CHUPPAH “I wanted a chuppah as a nod to my Jewish heritage,” says Tasha of the chandelier-clad stone structure.

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SET THE TONE “We created a suite that had touches of leather and gold to incorporate the feel of our wedding day,” Tasha shares.

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HORSING AROUND An equineinspired display helped guide guests to their seats. The model horses, calligraphed with attendee names and table assignments, also doubled as favors. FIERCE FASHION The lace wedding dress Tasha ended up donning “was one I never envisioned wearing, but am so glad I did.” A dramatic braided updo, embellished with floral sprigs, added a rustic-meets-bohemian note to Tasha’s bridal look. As for Zach’s wedding day attire, he wore “a really awesome bolo tie” paired with a Stetson hat and “killer cowboy boots.” PICTURESQUE The venue’s ceremony spot was a selling point.

The duo loved that you enter through “beautiful European gates down a cobblestone path to a wood altar.”

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atasha (Tasha) Lampitt (28 and a veterinarian assistant) is passionate about gathering vintage treasures while Zachary (Zach) Dekker (27 and a park ranger) enjoys hunting in his spare time.

Together they created a hunter-gathererthemed wedding to honor not only their marriage, but the melding of their interests as well. Whimsical details in a myriad of textures, from wood chargers and leather placemats to cut-crystal glasses and copper cups, celebrated Tasha’s passion for all things bohemian. Horse motifs were also a thoughtful homage to her career.

Meanwhile, the Zach-centric details were more avian in nature. Aptly named cocktails Fowl Language and Lucky Duck were on offer at the bar before guests ended the night with goose-shaped cookies as a nod to his feathered hobby. — H N

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COWHIDE CAKE “Our three-tier cake was the perfect mix of modern and whimsy,” Tasha says. The cake’s distinctive cowhide pattern also appeared on sugar cookies in the dessert display. WILDFLOWERS The wedding’s floral arrangements had a just-picked-from-the-field vibe thanks to the inclusion of “garden roses, ranunculus, anemones, sweet peas, butterfly ranunculus, fritillaria, amaryllis and daffodils.” The couple juxtaposed the lightness of these blooms with concrete vessels and stoneware that grounded the day’s floral designs.

STELLAR SETTINGS “Each setting consisted of a wood charger, simple gray plate with floral gold flatware and crystal glassware topped with a Western-inspired buffalo plaid napkin.”

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WEDDING STYLE A modern take on Rustic with a dash of Whimsy. Exchange vows on a rural ranch, in a bucolic field or atop a mountain.

COLOR PALETTE WAR M AN D E ARTHY

Anchored by wheat, taupe and caramel with highlights of pigeon blue and stone gray.

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MUST-HAVES PR IVATE VOWS The couple exchanged vows they penned themselves in private before exchanging traditional ones at the ceremony.

WES TE R N WALTZ Decked out in cowboy boots, the couple shared a first dance to Rascal Flatts’s “Bless the Broken Road.”

FR ES H AI R As pet owners, Tasha and Zach’s favorite registry pick was an air purifier to keep animal dander at bay.

1 Opalhouse wooden beads chandelier, $230, $230, Target.com 2 Buffalo check napkins in tan and white, $13 for set of 4, Elrene, Amazon.com $36, 3 Dinner plate in aqua chocolate brown, $36, $20, HeathCeramics.com 4 Carson charger, $20, CrateandBarrel.com 5 Favory Airiella gift set, $55, BreyerHorses.com 6 Project 62 Copley velvet chair in blush and brass, $130, Target .com 7 Mermaid wedding dress in sizes up to 28, $1,234, MaggieSottero.com 8 Bear claw turquoise mountain bolo tie, $151, TheReLux.com

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INGREDIENTS

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C E R E M O NY + R EC E PTI O N S ITE Vista Valley Country Club, Vista, CA PH OTOG R APHY Rebecca Yale Photography VI D EOG R APHY Thomas Wedding Cinema E VE NT PL AN N I N G + D ES I G N Amorology FLO R AL D ES I G N Oak & the Owl O FFI CIANT Pastor Colby Martin GOWN Madison James, Posh Brides, Carlsbad, CA S U IT Ted Baker HAT Stetson E N G AG E M E NT + WE D D I N G R I N G S Tasha: CvB Inspired Design; Zach: David Yurman WE D D I N G PART Y AT TI R E Posh Brides, Carlsbad, CA HAI R + MAK EU P Danielle Ryan S TATI O N E RY Epoch Design R E NTAL S BBJ Linen; Folklore; The Hostess Haven; To Be Designed CATE R I N G Vista Valley Country Club CAK E Hey There, Cupcake! M U S I C Dart DJ PH OTO BOOTH Amigo Booth TR AN S P O RTATI O N La Costa Limo HAS HTAG #HappilyEverDekker

#MAKETRADITION

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Hunting, one of Zach’s main hobbies, informed his choice of wedding party gift, among other details of the day. To reinforce the motif, Zach wore a mallard brooch on his lapel while his guys donned cowboy-boot pins.

As an homage to his pastime, Zach gifted bird calls to his groomsmen. The calligraphed whistles served as place cards at the head table for a special surprise once the groomsmen sat down.

-Tasha

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Barbara + Mark 1 1 . 0 2 . 1 9 | S T. H E L E N A , C A

STO RY B O O K LOV E P H O T O G R A P H S B Y LY N E T T E B OY L E P H O T O G R A P H Y E V E N T P L A N N I N G B Y M A D I X & C O

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ALL ABOUT AMBIENCE “Under the tent, we incorporated black dining chairs and candlelight to elevate the experience of a formal dinner party.”

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SOFT BLOOMS The arrangements incorporated roses, ranunculus, lisianthus, tulips, veronica, sage, dusty miller and stock. EVOLVING STYLE The couple “wanted a clear delineation between the ceremony and dinner aesthetics,” with the mood growing more formal as the wedding progressed. “For me, a daytime event should always have a more relaxed, easy feel,” Barbara says of the softer ceremony design that preceded the candlelit tented reception. LITERARY “Mark is an avid reader, with a collection of books in the hundreds,” Barbara shares. To honor his interest, a shelf displayed custom journals conveying guest table assignments. The vignette included a vintage chalkboard that instructed guests to pick up their journals, which doubled as favors.

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n image of a living room curated with Restoration Hardware pieces formed the inspiration for the black-tie wedding of Barbara Lodde (35 and a property manager) and Mark Reynolds (33 and an AP English Language teacher).

Ultimately, the couple wanted a celebration that felt timeless and classic, yet fresh and contemporary. To pull off this nuanced look, Barbara and Mark were very intentional with their design selections, like pairing modern black taper candles with elegant cut-crystal stemware for their tablescape.

While hosting a formal, refined event was important for the to-be-weds, they also prioritized making the day feel like “them” by sprinkling personalized details throughout, even adding stamps bearing their young daughter Ruth’s image to the wedding invitations. — H N

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BARBARA + MARK

GET THE LO O K

WEDDING STYLE A Timeless and Regal black-tie affair.

The merriment could take place at a vineyard, historic estate or airy ballroom.

COLOR PALETTE

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S LE E K SO PH I S TI CATI O N

White, cream, navy and black with plenty of silver and crystal sparkling throughout.

MUST-HAVES E X TE N S IVE BAR O FFE R I N G S The couple served

five unique signature cocktails.

HAN GOVE R K IT S When exiting the reception, guests grabbed monogrammed glass water bottles and satchels that included lip balm, eye drops and electrolyte powder.

D R ES S D U O For the reception, Barbara changed out of her long-sleeved crepe gown into a party-ready selection with ample beading.

1 A-line wedding dress in sizes up to 28, $999, Morilee.com 2 Royce 5-piece flatware set, $40, CrateandBarrel.com 3 Large hard linen journal, $24, Shinola.com 4 Large black dramatic geometry lantern, $27, KoehlerHomeDecor.com 5 Midnight blue tuxedo in sizes up to 16, $450, TheBlackTux.com 6 Melodia crystal champagne glass, $85 for set of 6, Lorren Home Trends, Macys.com 7 Melodia crystal wine glass, $85 for set of 6, Lorren Home Trends, Macys.com

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INGREDIENTS

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C E R E M O NY + R EC E PTI O N S ITE Meadowood Napa Valley, St. Helena, CA PH OTOG R APHY Lynette Boyle Photography VI D EOG R APHY Weddings on Film E VE NT PL AN N I N G Madix & Co FLO R AL D ES I G N Nancy Liu Chin O FFI CIANT London Breed (mayor of San Francisco) GOWN S Ceremony: Ines Di Santo, Bridal Galleria, San Francisco; reception: Naeem Khan, Jin Wang, San Francisco TUXE DO J. Hilburn S H O ES Jimmy Choo E N G AG E M E NT + WE D D I N G R I N G S Trabert Goldsmiths HAI R Joli Bijou Salon MAK EU P Marisa Perel WE D D I N G PART Y AT TI R E Galvan; Naeem Khan; flower girl: Jin Wang S TATI O N E RY Aerialist Press CALLI G R APHY Blushtype R E NTAL S Encore Events

Rentals; Found Rental Co.; Illusions Lighting; La Tavola; Theoni; Zephyr Tents CATE R I N G + CAK E Meadowood Napa Valley M U S I C Ceremony, cocktail hour and dinner: Eclecta Quartet; dancing: DJ Patrix PH OTO BOOTH MirMir TR AN S P O RTATI O N Pure Luxury Transportation HAS HTAG #ReynoldsPartyOf3

I N M E M O RY O F M E A D OWO O D

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In late 2020, many of Napa’s storied wineries fell victim to the Glass Fire.

The blaze claimed over 100 square miles of wine country. Devastatingly, the fire caught Barbara and Mark’s wedding venue in its path. Those who wish to support the region as it rebuilds can donate to the Napa Valley Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization involved directly with wildfire relief and aid.

Several years before meeting Mark, I came across Meadowood in a magazine and said that if I ever got married, it would be there.

-Barbara

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Anna + Feng 10.05.19 | MAUI, HI

T R O P I C A L PA R A D I S E PHOTOGRAPHS BY CHRISTINA MCNEILL EVENT PLANNING BY UNVEILED HAWAII

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FLORAL FASHION Anna wore a sheath wedding dress with a freesia-accented lace bodice, while Feng chose a white suit.

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The duo describes their pink, green and yellow color scheme as “Sunset in the Jungle.”

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EQUATORIAL AMBIENCE The couple’s vision for their wedding aesthetic was “tropical meets modern with a Balinese-inspired atmosphere.”

WATERFRONT MEDITATION To start the ceremony, Anna’s mom led a short meditation as a nod to a childhood ritual: She used to meditate in her daughter’s room to help Anna sleep.

POETIC PARTY As part of the ceremony, the officiant, a close friend, orchestrated a haiku battle between the couple’s eight bridesmaids and eight groomsmen. The DJ even added custom sound effects. WELCOME AMENITIES To thank guests for making the trip, the couple “shared the ‘aloha spirit’ by gifting everyone totes containing Korean face masks and Hawaiian snacks.”

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typical Saturday surf session became an especially memorable one when Feng Wang (30 and a finance professional) turned it into a proposal to Anna Vu (35 and works in investor relations). After paddling up to Anna, Feng pulled a ring from his wetsuit and asked her to marry him. “I screamed in delight, causing confused bystanders to check for sharks,” Anna says. “Afterward, I asked if the ring was insured.” Given that it was not, the couple paddled in to avoid souring the moment with a slippery mishap.

After getting engaged on the California coast, the couple celebrated their wedding 2,500 miles away in Maui overlooking the same ocean. For the getaway, Anna and Feng planned multiple special events, from a welcome cocktail party to a waterfront day-after brunch. — H N

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FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS “A dark base of deep green tropical foliage with pink, coral, peach and orange orchid and anthurium blooms punctuated the designs.” CUT THE COCONUT “Instead of a cake, we served Taiyaki ice cream cones, which were a hit.”

Since Anna and Feng skipped a wedding cake, they chose to ceremonially crack a coconut during the reception instead.

WELCOME PARTY The first night’s festivities included a trio of cocktails with fun names like The Fengsta and Fomo. SURPRISE HONEYMOON The duo left the decision of where to honeymoon up to their guests. “We planned a dance-off to determine the location. Our DJ enlisted two guests from each table to participate. From swing to break-dancing, we saw it all.”

The result was Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

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ANNA + FENG WEDDING STYLE A surfing-inspired Tropical and Bohemian celebration. A resort, botanical garden or secluded white-sand beach are ideal locales.

GET THE LO O K

COLOR PALETTE TH E B E AC H AT S U N S ET

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A vibrant cornucopia of coral, watermelon, sand, jade and lemon with rattan accents.

Jazz up your tablescape with colorful beaded glassware.

7 5 MUST-HAVES WE ATH E R- R ES I S TANT Anna chose a sensible

updo to “protect her hair from island trade winds, while a pink anthurium flower and spotted orchids added some flair.”

P OWE R O F P O P Anna and Feng selected “Always Remember Us This Way,” by Lady Gaga, for their first dance because they both “go gaga for Lady Gaga.”

1 Gary Linden x St. Frank Surfboard, $2,295, StFrank.com 2 Camellia bow heel in gold in sizes up to 11.5, $395, LoefflerRandall.com 3 Banana leaf throw pillow, $63, Loom Decor, Perigold.com 4 American Champion bamboo folding chair, $58, Wayfair.com 5 Goa chopstick set in brushed gold and black, $45, ShopHorne.com 6 Jupiter double old fashioned glasses, $48 for set of 6, Fortessa, Nordstrom.com 7 Sheath wedding dress in sizes up to 28, $2,400, JennyYoo.com

INGREDIENTS

chicken, green vegetable curry and pad Thai.

C E R E M O NY + R EC E PTI O N S ITE The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, Kapalua, HI PH OTOG R APHY Christina McNeill E VE NT PL AN N I N G Unveiled Hawaii FLO R AL D ES I G N Mandy Grace Designs O FFI CIANT Alexa Binns (friend) GOWN Elizabeth Fillmore S U IT Giorgio Armani S H O ES Anna: Loeffler Randall; Feng: Manebi ACC ES SO R I ES Anna: David Yurman; Salvatore Ferragamo; Feng: Crockett & Jones E N G AG E M E NT + WE D D I N G R I N G S David Yurman HAI R + MAK EU P Meili Autumn Beauty WE D D I N G PART Y AT TI R E Bridesmaids: Ulla Johnson; Groomsmen: Club Monaco S TATI O N E RY Shindig Bespoke R E NTAL S Inspiration Event Rentals CATE R I N G The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua DAN C E LES SO N S The Dance Loft SF HAS HTAG #VuWangClan

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FAVO R ITE FOO D S Dinner included clay pot

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Anna and Feng both love surfing. “Every year we go to Maui to catch waves and enjoy warm water since San Francisco, our home, is so cold.” In addition to their wood surfboard “guest book,” the duo celebrated the aquatic hobby by registering for his-and-hers surfboards. “We couldn’t think of a better way to remember our wedding than catching sweet waves,” says Anna.

Our planner sourced a koa wood surfboard etched with the same monstera leaf pattern from our invitation suite for guests to sign upon entrance to the cocktail-hour location.

-Anna

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De’Angela + Aaron . .

08 28 20 | LORTON, VA

TEEMING WITH TEAL PHOTOGRAPHS BY TERRI BASKIN PHOTOGRAPHY EVENT PLANNING BY B ASTONISHED EVENTS

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THE TWO OF US De’Angela recalls her first look as being “one of the most memorable moments of our wedding day.”

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HEXAGONS From the altar backdrop to the seating chart, hexagons wove a modern vibe throughout the glamorous celebration. DOUBLE DESSERTS De’Angela “absolutely loves cake pops,” so adding them to the menu was a must. A two-tier watercolor-and-goldleaf cake also made a sweet statement.

PANDEMIC PRECAUTIONS De’Angela and Aaron used their wedding website to communicate the safety measures they were instituting. The actions included “sanitation stations, custom masks, temperatures taken upon entering the ceremony, socially-distanced seating during the ceremony and guests strategically seated with members of their families,” De’Angela says. “By being transparent with our guests, we gave them the option to decide if they wanted to attend our wedding or not.”

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s a wedding planner herself, De’Angela Boone (32 and a federal government employee and lead event coordinator at B Astonished Events) was well prepared for the COVID-19-related roadblocks she encountered in the lead-up to her marriage to Aaron Calder (36 and a construction foreman). The couple initially set out to exchange vows in a minimony on their original wedding date, intending to host a sequel wedding later on. However, as their August 28th date neared, it became clear a full celebration with minimal concessions would be feasible.

Once De’Angela and Aaron received the green light, they quickly revised invitations and mailed them out for the glam pinkand-teal event. Mere weeks later, the couple welcomed masked guests to celebrate along Virginia’s Occoquan River. — H N

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WEDDING VISION D E ’A N G E L A + A A R O N

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WEDDING STYLE A soirée filled with Glamour and Luxurious details. Book a castle, art museum or penthouse loft as a venue.

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COLOR PALETTE J E WE L-TO N E J U B I LE E

A regal pairing of hot pink and emerald with plenty of modern white and gold accents.

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1 Formal ampersand wedding invitations, $199 for 100, TheKnot .com 2 Emerald 1” velvet ribbon, $21 for 3 yards, CourtneyInghram .com 3 Gold-plated 12” cake stand, $60, Faire.com 4 Strapless wedding dress in sizes up to 30, $1,850, AllureBridals.com 5 Gold mirror hexagonal trays, $36 for set of 2, Koyalwholesale.com 6 Crystal ferns hair clip, $230, TwigsandHoney.com 7 Dandelion spikes flat in sizes up to 15, $1,180, ChristianLouboutin.com

MUST-HAVES PE RSO NALIZE D PPE Guests received custom masks emblazoned with “Quarantined for Life” and #ToHaveAndToCalderMine.

PL AN N I N G PE RS PECTIVE The couple encourages to-be-weds to “have patience and be transparent,” especially when planning during the COVID-19 pandemic.

FAM I LY FO R E VE R In honor of her greatgrandmothers, De’Angela had picture charms attached to her bouquet.

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C E R E M O NY + R EC E PTI O N S ITE The River View at Occoquan, Lorton, VA PH OTOG R APHY Terri Baskin Photography VI D EOG R APHY Blair Williams Productions E VE NT PL AN N I N G B Astonished Events FLO R AL D ES I G N BCG Events O FFI CIANT Pastor James Marshall GOWN Allure Couture, Posh Bridal, Frederick, MD; veil: Bella Tiara TUXE DO Miguel Wilson Collection, Oxon Hill, MD S H O ES De’Angela: Giuseppe Zanotti; Aaron: Christian Louboutin ACC ES SO R I ES De’Angela: Made For Her Couture; Mariell; The Mrs Box; Aaron: Movado E N G AG E M E NT + WE D D I N G R I N G S De’Angela: Tiffany & Co. Aaron: Helzberg Diamonds HAI R Dommie Cole Brand MAK EU P Lauren Nicely WE D D I N G PART Y AT TI R E Bridesmaids: Bella Bridesmaids; groomsmen: Miguel Wilson Collection S TATI O N E RY Invitations & menus: By Dami Studios; seating chart:

Black Frame Creative; place cards: Dainty Printables; table numbers: Z Create Design R E NTAL S 27 Studios; Black Frame Creative; DC Rental; Elite Party Rentals & Events; The LightSource Company; Nostalgia Events CATE R I N G Great Blue Heron Catering CAK E Mon Delice D ES S E RT S Cake pops: Mon Delice; macarons: Afua’s Sweets M U S I C DJ Oxygen MAS KS ForYourParty.com TR AN S P O RTATI O N Vertri Corporate Transportation HAS HTAG #ToHaveAndToCalderMine

#MAKETRADITION

GET THE LOOK: COURTESY OF VENDORS

“Aaron lost his brother, who was also his best friend, in 2003. Since Bub could not be with us on our wedding day, we purchased a life-sized cutout of him in a black tuxedo to be placed at the altar behind Aaron,” De’Angela says. In addition to his late brother, Aaron also had one honorary best man and four groomsmen stand beside him as he exchanged vows with De’Angela.

Aaron knew since he was a kid that his brother Bub would serve as his best man when he got married.

-De’Angela

Take our style quiz to create your own wedding vision by downloading THE K N OT WE D D IN G PL ANNE R APP

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12/11/20 9:43 AM

SP EC I A L

F E ATU R E

PLANNING with

PURPOSE AS CONSCIOUS CONSUMERISM BECOMES MAINSTREAM, MORE AND MORE COUPLES ARE APPROACHING THEIR WEDDINGS (AND ALL THE CHOICES THAT COME WITH IT!) WITH INTENTION, WHETHER THAT’S TO SHOW SUPPORT, TELL A STORY OR MAKE A STATEMENT.

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12/11/20 9:52 AM

Zoe-Raven wore a flower crown handmade from recycled paper.

GO GREEN Ways to shrink your wedding’s carbon footprint

R E CYC LE + REUSE Décor can be repurposed throughout the day, while bouquets can be composted post-event.

GO LO CA L Whether it’s food or flowers, sourcing close to home minimizes waste.

Opt for digital solutions for things like savethe-dates or RSVPs.

A SUSTAINABLE SOIRÉE The formula for success included reusable décor, vegan eats and cruelty-free beauty products.

Z O E - R AV E N + S P E N C E R

ANAHEIM, CA

Hosting a wedding that was sustainable and environmentally conscious was of utmost importance to Zoe-Raven and Spencer. “Spencer is vegan and we both care deeply about our communities and being ecofriendly,” Zoe-Raven says, which led the couple to select a sustainable urban farm as their venue. After nailing down a location, the duo found other ways to make each aspect of their day more sustainable. They served a completely vegan menu that was provided by a small BIPOC-owned food vendor and eaten with compostable cutlery. “Weddings are expensive and it was imperative to us that all of that money went into the pockets of small businesses and not massive conglomerates.” Much of the décor was sourced secondhand, the flowers were made from paper and the beauty products used were all cruelty-free. ZoeRaven even chose to have her dress shortened, which has allowed her to wear it “several times since the wedding.” Zoe-Raven encourages current to-be-weds that making your wedding sustainable is “easier to do than you might think and so important. Any effort in sustainability is impactful, even if you can’t do it all.”

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FROM LEFT: SHELBY DANIELLE PHOTOGRAPHY; MALIKOV/NOUN PROJECT; YASMINVISIBLE/NOUN PROJECT

R ETH I N K YO U R PA PE R

FO RG O FAVO R S Favors often get left behind. In lieu of this tradition, make a donation in guests’ names.

MAKE A C H A R IT Y R EG I S TRY In addition to gifts, add a cash fund to raise money for your fave eco organization.

12/11/20 9:52 AM

PLANNING WITH

PURPOSE

vendor research

BUILDING AN INCLUSIVE TEAM

r

Three of the nation’s top wedding planners offer an inside look at creating a diverse team of vendors to bring your dream nuptials to life.

enowned wedding planners Chanda Daniels, Erica Estrada and Lea Stafford understand that representation matters, especially when it comes to the people couples hire to execute their celebrations. Seeing a lack of representation of Black professionals highlighted in upscale weddings, the trio founded Ethos West Collective.

Their mission is to showcase Black vendors in the event industry worldwide, so couples and planners can connect with talented pros who might not be on their radar.

I reached out to these three experts to talk through need-to-know tips for couples as they seek to form teams of professionals that are inclusive, intersectional and, most importantly, the very best fit for their unique wedding vision.

TIP NO. 2 THE PROS

CHANDA DANIELS @cd_chandadaniels

— HAN NAH N OWAC K ERICA ESTRADA @ericaestradadesign

TIP NO. 1

No two couples are alike, so there’s no one-sizefits-all approach to hiring vendors. Taking stock of what’s important to both of you is a key step in finding pros that ladder up to those priorities.

CHAN DA: From the outset, define your values and use them as a guide to find creative partners who fit them. Make sure a pro’s work matches your vision; remember that when you shine, your creative partners shine as well.

LE A: The vendor-selection process starts with identifying experts who fit the caliber, budget and experiential concept for the event. From there, you take into account representation across the board. Having a true depiction of society during your event creates a more realistic and welcoming environment.

TIP NO. 3

A good wedding planner is the bedrock of a strong ASK QUESTIONS—LOTS OF THEM creative team. Hiring a planner you trust who As the adage goes, you won’t know unless you understands your vision will make finding the ask. Interviewing prospective vendors can feel a remaining vendors a much more seamless process. bit daunting, but coming prepared with insightful ERI CA: I’m a firm believer that every couple’s LEA STAFFORD questions will bring you one step closer to wedding should be a true reflection of them. @leastaffordevents nailing down your dream team.

There’s nothing better than a couple saying, ERI CA: Ask all of the questions! A couple’s “this is so US!” With that, I always start with wedding will be one of the most important days simply getting to know my clients, both of their life and having the perfect team to execute their vision individually (i.e. favorite color to wear) and as a couple (i.e. is critical. Take a little extra time to talk about their company’s favorite date-night activity). This information informs the mission and experience in the wedding industry. Dig a little design aesthetic I present to clients. Once the vision board deeper into information shared on a pro’s website. is created and signed off on, I meticulously select vendors who LE A: Shape your vendor inquiries around what matters most I know, without a doubt, can execute the plan. My clients to you. If you and your partner are passionate about service, make the ultimate decisions, but my process allows me to put focus on asking catering companies about their staffing ratio, the right vendors in front of them. approach and training process. If sustainability is important, ask CHAN DA: Over the years, I’ve worked with amazing creative what the company’s practices are and how those translate into partners who share the same values of diversity and inclusion their services. For photography, find out how the photographer as I do. Being able to recommend creatives I know and trust ensures authentic expressions and moments are captured. makes the final hiring decision easy for my couples.

HOW TO MAKE SURE A VENDOR IS ON YOUR SIDE Finding pros who understand and support you is nonnegotiable.

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1

LOOK AT PHOTO GALLERIES

You can tell a lot about a vendor by browsing their site for examples of other weddings they’ve worked on. If you see couples that look like you, that’s a good starting point.

2

PAY ATTENTION TO LANGUAGE

Look out for terms used on their site or social media that are gendered (think bride and groom vs. couple, or bridal party vs. wedding party).

PHOTO CREDIT

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TRUST YOUR PLANNER

DEFINE YOUR VALUES AND PRIORITIES

12/11/20 9:52 AM

STATEMENT MAKERS

TIP NO. 4

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: SONYA YRUEL PHOTOGRAPHY; SONA PHOTOGRAPHY; PETRONELLA PHOTOGRAPHY; COURTESY OF SUBJECT; KATIE MONROE PHOTOGRAPHY; ALICIA DAW

RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH!

Representation matters, but vendors should also be hired because they, and their skills, are the best fit for the job. The pros suggest that thorough and thoughtful research will help couples avoid tokenism as they search for vendors.

ERI CA: With so much information at couples’ fingertips, it’s important to take the time to thoroughly research. Both The Knot Marketplace and Ethos West Collective are great resources when seeking diverse wedding talent. They allow couples to see a wider variety of wedding professionals they may not have otherwise come across. With Ethos West Collective, we wanted to provide a platform with access to some of the industry’s best talent, all of whom happen to be Black.

CHRISTIE + KRYSTAL O R L A N D O, F L

G AV E T- S H I R T FAVO R S TO BENEFIT GUN VIO LENC E VIC TIMS

TIP NO. 5

Christie and Krystal chose to purchase shirts whose proceeds benefited the families of the victims of the Pulse nightclub tragedy. “The wedding favors were a way for us to give money to the victims’ families as well as call attention to how that event affected us.”

BE AWARE OF RED FLAGS

Knowing what negative cues to look for is just as helpful as understanding the positive traits to seek out as you book pros.

CHAN DA: The biggest red flag for me is if a website has all heteronormative language. If you are inclusive, the first place to communicate that is in your website copy.

LE A: Tone and action are very important. I like to see that partners practice inclusivity. Do they hire staff from varying backgrounds? Do they push a narrative that seems to exclude groups or may make some feel uncomfortable? The behavior I witness impacts whether a prospect will be a good fit for the couple’s wedding.

TIP NO. 6

ELIZABETH + JOAB B R O O K LY N , N Y

I N T E N T I O N A L LY CHOSE FEMALE AND MINORITY VENDORS For Elizabeth and Joab, the makeup of their vendor team was a planning priority. They chose to “intentionally hire as many women and people of color as possible, especially because we’re a multicultural couple and I like hiring women,” Elizabeth says.

GIVE YOURSELF GRACE

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you’re trying to plan a wedding, especially one that thoughtfully supports underrepresented groups. If you feel like you’re not doing enough, let yourself off the hook.

CHAN DA: The fact that a couple is interested in supporting underrepresented and underestimated creatives is the first step, so be proud of that. Regardless of your detailed focus, the fact that couples are intentionally looking to hire women, Black and brown or LGBTQ+ creatives is noteworthy.

Go easy on yourself.

ERI CA: Looking to support underrepresented professionals for your event is the first step and one to commend. This is not an issue that will be solved overnight, but do what you can and continue to be mindful when searching for vendors.

If a client is unable to hire all of the underrepresented talent they come across, I say to refer them to a friend!

3 PHOTO CREDIT

These couples used their weddings to highlight causes they are passionate about.

SCROLL THEIR SOCIAL MEDIA

Social media is most likely where vendors are posting recent work—even if it’s just BTS shots. If you’re not seeing couples like you, see our next point.

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4

JACLYN + SEBASTIAN F R E E H O L D, N J

HELD A FOOD DRIVE AFTER THEIR WEDDING WA S P O S T P O N E D Sebastian and Jaclyn didn’t let the the postponement of their wedding, due to COVID-19, dampen their joy.

Motivated to use their original wedding date for good, they began the food drive campaign “With This Ring You’ll Be Fed.” They hope other couples will “use their wedding dates to raise money for food pantries.”

ASK POINTED QUESTIONS

If a vendor’s online presence doesn’t feel representative at first glance, but you love their work, ask questions about their experiences working with couples like you.

5

GET A REFERENCE + READ REVIEWS

Hearing about vendors from friends and family is helpful, but so is reading reviews on The Knot Marketplace from couples who have worked with the vendors in the past.

12/14/20 10:33 AM

PLANNING WITH

PURPOSE

If you don’t know a person’s preferred pronouns, ask.

stationery reboot

MAKE YOUR INVITES INCLUSIVE GO BEYOND MR + MRS In order to show respect and make your guests comfortable, consider asking about preferred pronouns when you inevitably have to reach out for mailing addresses.

This way you can address all stationery correctly using Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss., Dr. or Mx.

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USE THE CORRECT LAST NAMES When it comes to married couples, don’t assume both partners have the same last name. If one or the other kept their given last name, use that instead of grouping them under the last name of their partner.

AVOID EXCLUSIONARY PRONOUNS Traditional stationery language typically requires the use of pronouns like “his” or “her.” But if you identify as “they,” you should absolutely use this identifier on your various paper items. You can also use wording that doesn’t involve pronouns at all. It’ll still relay the information to your guests clearly without pressuring you to use pronouns.

WISE WORDS

GO GENDER NEUTR A L

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Instead of bridal party, use wedding party. Instead of bachelor or bachelorette party, use bach party. Instead of bride & groom, use couple.

Instead of bridesmaids & groomsmen, use attendants. Instead of bridal suite, use wedding suite. Instead of bridal shower, use wedding shower.

12/11/20 9:53 AM

Q:

Q+A

SUSTAINABLE JEWELRY: HERE’S WHAT TO KNOW Jewelry designer Jonne Amaya, who creates sustainable, custom pieces, breaks it down.

Q:

WHA T DO E S SU STA IN A B IL ITY M EA N WHE N IT COM ES TO J EWEL R Y ?

To me, sustainability means making conscious decisions in the present so that we don’t compromise the ability of future generations to do the same. Most industries, including jewelry, have their own way of setting standards within their supply chain, but unfortunately these standards aren’t always the most transparent. I believe that the jewelry manufacturing process should meet both social and environmental guidelines and consumers should be aware of what they are supporting when they make a purchase.

Q: FROM LEFT: CLAIRE BENOIST; STEPHANIE MUNGUÍA; COURTESY OF VENDOR

WHY DO Y OU THINK SU STA INA B IL ITY I S SO IM P O R TA NT IN THE J EW ELR Y IN DU STR Y ? WHY DID Y O U DEC I DE TO P U R SU E THIS? As a jeweler, I believe that the industry should be held accountable for the damage that mining causes. Mining for stones and gold is responsible for irreversible earth displacement. When jewelry is mass-produced, the effect is magnified.

I felt the need to create jewelry with intention so that every piece I design is as special and unique as the person who wears it. I create custom pieces one at a time to control production and make jewelry in a more sustainable way. I work with clients to repurpose their own materials or I source recycled gold and stones to reduce the need for mining.

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W H AT S H O U LD A C O U PLE K E E P I N M I N D I F T H E Y W O U LD LI K E T O G O T H E S U S T AI N AB LE RO U T E F O R T H E I R W E D D I N G RI N G S AN D B AN D S ?

GIFTS BACK

I think couples should first educate themselves about what “sustainable” means as it relates to jewelry design.

For example, a ring that is made-toorder is more sustainable than purchasing from existing stock. When brands produce in bulk, it naturally creates more waste. Having a custom engagement ring created is a great way to personalize such a special piece of jewelry as well as reduce the impact on the environment. I think once consumers understand that they have options, they will really appreciate being a part of the design process.

Here are five causes that you can link to on your The Knot Registry.

Q:

W H AT O PT I O N S D O C O U PLE S H AV E W H E N LO O K I N G F O R S U S T AI N AB LE J E W E LR Y ?

The first sustainable option is to buy a vintage ring—this requires no new mining or production. The downside is that a vintage ring will have a specific style and feature motifs of the era in which it was designed. It may not reflect the couple’s aesthetic perfectly.

The second most sustainable option is repurposing an existing heirloom in order to make it more modern and the best reflection of what the couple is looking for. Any type of jewelry can be used—whether it’s a ring, brooch, bracelet, etc. Redesigning a client’s own piece is a great option because it maintains the sentimental value of the original item. The third option is to create a custom ring from recycled materials that a jeweler can help them source.

Q:

AN Y T H I N G E LS E C O U PLE S S H O U LD K N O W AB O U T S U S T AI N AB LE J E W E LR Y ?

Working closely with clients on projects is an inclusive, hands-on collaboration. I think my clients really appreciate being a part of the process.

It increases their overall emotional attachment to the final piece.

Together, we can create something that is exactly what the couple wants, and they’ll know that it’s unique to them and can’t be replicated.

1 VOW Dedicated to ending child marriage around the world by working with local orgs, parents and communities.

2 B L ACK LIVE S MATTE R Works to eradicate white supremacy and build local power to intervene in violence inflicted on Black communities.

3 TH E TREVO R PRO J EC T Focuses on crisis and suicide prevention among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth.

4 G LO BAL FU N D FO R WO M E N Champions the human rights of women and girls by amplifying the work of women who are challenging the status quo.

5 ST. J U D E CH ILD RE N ’S RE S EARCH H O S PITAL Advances cures and means of prevention for pediatric diseases.

12/11/20 9:53 AM

DREAM IN COLOR A boho-glam fantasy come to life, there’s nothing expected about this dazzling mix of pink sequins and floral embroidery.

Dress in sizes up to 14, price upon request, TemperleyLondon.com

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12/11/20 10:05 AM

IF YOU THINK THE DAYS OF STATEMENT GOWNS ARE OVER, THINK AGAIN. THIS YEAR’S MOST COVETED LOOKS ARE ALL ABOUT DARING DETAILS, STANDOUT SILHOUETTES AND MAKING THE ABSOLUTE MOST OF YOUR FASHION MOMENT. INSTAGRAM PHENOM @KIHMBERLIE MODELS THE MAXIMALIST DRESSES WE’RE DOUBLE-TAPPING.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIHMBERLIE

BY SHELLEY BROWN

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PUFF PLAY The secret to pulling off the powersleeve trend? Balance. A sleek sheath perfectly complements pearl-encrusted, puffy sleeves.

Dress in sizes up to 16, $1,450, BegumBDH.com

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BOW DOWN Back bows are a bridal staple, but this oversize one sits front and center, putting a fresh spin on an old standard.

Top in any size, $1,100, skirt in any size, $4,900, HonorNYC.com

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NATIONAL 2 COND BOLD 9 +80

|

NATIONAL 2 LIGHT 8PT +40

HIGH VOLUME You don’t need a full-length gown to make a statement.

A tutu-inspired silhouette brings just as much drama as a conventional ball gown.

Corset in sizes up to 18, $2,090, skirt in sizes up to 18, $2,290, Wiederhoeft.com

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NATIONAL 2 COND BOLD 9 +80

ELEGANT EXCESS Sometimes more is more.

The unique combo of allover botanical embroidery plus a high-low cape feels couture.

Dress in any size, cape in any size, price upon request, NaeemKhan.com

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ALL FRILLS Cascading ruffles add the right amount of whimsy to a dreamy, powder-blue gown.

Dress in any size, $12,990, OscardelaRenta.com

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FLOWER POWER If you’re feeling floral embellishments, go bold with 3-D blooms—the bigger, the better.

Dress in sizes up to 20, price upon request, Viktor-Rolf.com

ABOUT KIHMBERLIE

Known as both the girl in front of and behind the camera, Kihmberlie designs elaborate sets, models and (thanks to a camera with a self-timer) photographs the fantastical worlds she creates, all from her home studio in Southern California. Want more?

Follow her on instagram at @kihmberlie.

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12/11/20 10:08 AM

A TASTE OF

AT HOME

WHY The Danish-style town of Solvang transports guests to Denmark with its windmills, Danish bakeries and a half-size replica of Copenhagen’s iconic Little Mermaid sculpture.

You don’t need to leave the US to experience the culture shock of traveling abroad. The distinctive food, music and natural landscapes in pockets of the country can be surprisingly transportive.

Here are six escapes that will make you feel miles from home.

BY JEN MURPHY

EXPERIENCE THE OLD-WORLD CHARM IN OF

SCANDINAVIA

SOLVANG, CALIFORNIA WHERE TO STAY The 14-room Winston hotel opened last summer in Solvang’s historic Old Mill Clock Tower. Pastries, fresh fruit and handsqueezed OJ are delivered to your door each morning so you can eat breakfast in bed.

The Clock Tower Suite’s spa-inspired bathroom makes it a favorite with honeymooners.

From $400. Clock Tower Suite from $700; thewinstonsolvang.com DISH TO TRY The family behind Birkholm’s Bakery & Café still makes its spandauer (Danish pastries) with the requisite 27 layers of dough to create a tender flakiness that’s somewhere between a croissant and brioche.

ROMANTIC MOMENT The Santa Ynez Valley has more than 120 wineries. Walk the organic vines of the familyrun Folded Hills estate before a wine tasting by the fire in the ranch’s original homestead.

ADVENTURE TO HAVE Go on a private trail ride at fifthgeneration, 1,500-acre Nojoqui Horse Ranch. $50 per hour; nojoquiranch.com

Due to COVID-19, reopening times and prices are subject to change.

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12/11/20 10:28 AM

TR AVEL E X P E R I E N C E T H E R U G G E D I DY L L O F

CYPRUS

IN

MOUNT DESERT ISLAND, MAINE

WHY Mount Desert Island in Maine might not share Cyprus’ mild Mediterranean winters, but the two islands both boast an unspoiled shoreline, coastal cliffs and miles of hiking trails.

DISH TO TRY Straight-from-the-boat lobstah from Thurston’s Lobster Pound in nearby Bernard is a rite of passage for New Englanders.

WHERE TO STAY Fresh off a remodel in 2020, the Bayview Hotel in Bar Harbor sits just 75 feet from the water and all 26 rooms have an oceanfront balcony or deck. Nature-inspired design elements like a chandelier crafted from twigs and a birch tree screen separating the lobby and front desk are a nod to nearby Acadia National Park.

From $545; thebayviewbarharbor.com ROMANTIC MOMENT From mid-October through early March, Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park is the first place to view the sunrise in the US. Bundle up and arrive at least 30 minutes early to score a prime photo spot atop the 1,530-foot summit.

ADVENTURE TO HAVE Explore up to six-and-a-half miles of Acadia’s undeveloped coast with National Park Sea Kayak Tours. Knowledgeable guides will point out wildlife like osprey, gray seals and harbor porpoises. From $50; acadiakayak.com

EXPERIENCE THE VIVID COLORS OF

THE AZORES

IN

UPCOUNTRY MAUI, HAWAII DISH TO TRY After a guided tour of Maui Bees, a family-run farm and artisanal honey producer in Kula, enjoy an alfresco lunch. The taco of the day is always a hit.

Tours $25; mauibees.com

WHY Maui is best known for its luxury beach resorts, but the island’s interior delivers endless greenmeets-blue vistas resembling the landscape of the Azores.

WHERE TO STAY Arguably Maui’s most romantic stay, Malu Manu is a historic cabin set at 3,800 feet on a flower-filled hideaway in Kula.

The bicoastal views are magical at sunset. From $214; airbnb.com

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WHEN TO GO When the summer heat is blazing on the coast, it’s cooler in the Upcountry towns of Kula and Makawao. Winters can be chilly enough to warrant a jacket at night.

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: SHUTTERSTOCK; IBRANDIFY/NOUN PROJECT; GETTY IMAGES; LNHI/NOUN PROJECT; GETTY IMAGES (2); BAILEY REBECCA ROBERTS; LIGHTUPDESIGN/NOUN PROJECT

WHEN TO GO The summer crowds clear out by September and temperatures tend stay warm enough to enjoy the outdoors through October.

ROMANTIC MOMENT The therapists at Maui’s top resorts all train at Ho’omana Spa in Makawao. The nurturing 2.5-hour Aloha Spa Ritual begins with a coconut-milk-and-honey bath and concludes with a lomi lomi massage. $339; hoomanaspamaui.com ADVENTURE TO HAVE Descend four miles down to the lunar-like floor of Haleakalā Crater via the Keonehe‘ehe‘e (Sliding Sands) Trail. The elevation change is almost 2,500 feet—be prepared for a challenge.

12/11/20 10:29 AM

E X P E R I E N C E T H E S P L E N D I D H E R I TA G E O F

FRANCE

IN

ACADIANA, LOUISIANA WHEN TO GO Avoid the Southern humidity and visit between February and May or in October and November.

WHERE TO STAY Maison Madeleine, a beautifully restored, two-room B&B tucked away amidst Spanish moss–cloaked oaks on the shores of Lake Martin in Breaux Bridge. From $180; maisonmadeleine.com

WHY Home to the country’s largest Creole population, Acadiana, also known as Cajun Country, is just two hours west of New Orleans, but the region’s spicy jambalaya, soul-stirring zydeco music and Cajun French language make it feel worlds away.

ROMANTIC MOMENT Each spring, Maison Madeleine hosts an outdoor Secret Supper series that pairs James Beard Award–winning chefs with Grammynominated musicians. $185 ADVENTURE TO HAVE Kayak beneath the canopy of cypress trees on Lake Martin with Duc in Altum. $90 for three hours; ducinaltumkayak.com

E X P E R I E N C E T H E R E L A X AT I O N O F

THE BAVARIAN ALPS

IN

LEAVENWORTH, WASHINGTON

WHERE TO STAY The adults-only, riverfront Posthotel resembles a Bavarian wellness retreat with European spa treatments and a swim-out saltwater pool.

Two private cabins at Mountain Home Lodge offer a more intimate stay just ten minutes from downtown. From $445; posthotelleavenworth .com; cabins from $575; mthome.com/cabins DISH TO TRY Wash down bratwurst, brockwurst or currywurst with a pint of Hofbräu imported from Germany at Leavenworth Sausage Garten.

WHY This former logging town in the Cascade Mountains embraced a Bavarian theme in the 1960s to usher in tourism.

Tall, A-lined buildings with wood balconies, beer gardens and a backdrop of dramatic mountains make it feel just like a German village.

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ROMANTIC MOMENT Basalt stones and birchwood from Germany release tension during a Sticks & Stone couples massage at the Posthotel spa. From $155 ADVENTURE TO HAVE The Dirty Face trailhead climbs 4,000 feet through ponderosa pines and meadows. Hikers are rewarded with views of glacier-fed Lake Wenatchee at the summit.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: COURTESY OF MAISON MADELEINE; JANENNE C DECLOUET PHOTOGRAPHY/DUC IN ALTUM; COURTESY OF CASTLE HOT SPRINGS (2); GETTY IMAGES; VECTORS MARKET/NOUN PROJECT

DISH TO TRY Pont Breaux’s Cajun Restaurant is known for its excellent staples like fried catfish and boudin balls as well as nightly live music.

12/11/20 10:30 AM

TR AVEL EXPERIENCE THE OASES OF

BAJA, MEXICO

IN

CASTLE HOT SPRINGS, ARIZONA WHY The Sonoran Desert spans from Arizona down to Baja California Sur, Mexico, which means you don’t need a passport to enjoy spring-fed oases and cacti-studded landscapes.

WHEN TO GO Winter can be crowded with snow-weary visitors seeking sun and summer can bring blistering heat. Spring weather is ideal and you can witness the cacti in bloom.

WHERE TO STAY Just over an hour’s drive north of Phoenix, Castle Hot Springs is an off-the-grid, adults-only sanctuary.

The saguaro-dotted, 1,100-acre ranch is tucked within a canyon known for its restorative hot springs. Most of the 30 rooms have outdoor soaking tubs. From $1,000, all-inclusive; castlehotsprings.com

DISH TO TRY A private alfresco chef’s dinner at Castle Hot Springs showcases ingredients from the resort’s organic farm. Carnivores should request the onion-ash-dusted rib eye.

ROMANTIC MOMENT Unwind with a custom couples massage in one of the creek-front spa cabanas. $400 for 60 minutes ADVENTURE TO HAVE Test your mountaineering skills while scaling the 400-foot Castle Peak Via Ferrata. $150

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12/11/20 10:31 AM

WEDDING GOWNS 101 Searching for the one? Study up on everything you need to know before you hit the salon.

Ball Gown

A-line

Mermaid

Perfect for the bride looking to make a statement, there’s nothing subtle about a ball gown. This classic silhouette has a fitted bodice and a voluminous full skirt.

This universally flattering style hugs the torso and has a skirt that flares out in—you guessed it—an A shape.

Consider it a halfway point between a sheath and a ball gown.

Va-va-voom. This sultry silhouette has a fitted bodice, waist and hips, and dramatically flares out at the knee. It’s a great option if you want to show off your curves.

Trumpet

Sheath

This slim silhouette A toned-down version skims over the body, of the mermaid, the falling straight to skirt of this gown flares the floor below the out just below the hips, hips. What a sheath creating a semi-full dress lacks in volume, shape (like the bell it makes up for in of a trumpet) without versatility—it works with nearly every fabric. any extra volume.

Empire A dress for the Grecian goddess in us all, the empire style has a fitted bodice ending just below the bust, giving a high-waisted appearance that lengthens the body.

MUST-READ GOWN SHOPPING TIP S S H O P E A R L Y A designer wedding gown will take months to create and a series of alterations to fit your body perfectly. In other words, it’s not the kind of garment you can toss into an online shopping cart and have show up on your doorstep two days later. Book your first appointment 9 to 12 months before your wedding date. If you’re shopping closer to your wedding, you may be limited to samples or off-the-rack gowns.

A L W A Y S B O O K A N A P P O I N T M E N T Scheduling an appointment is the only way to ensure you’ll get a full hour of undivided attention. If you’re the type who hates feeling rushed when shopping, make an appointment on a slow weekday morning or afternoon.

L I M I T Y O U R E N T O U R A G E Bringing a big group to the salon is a gown shopping don’t. Enlist one or two of your closest friends or family members to help you start your search. This way you can find the gown that best suits your style and not feel pressured by too many opinions.

H I D D E N C O S T S A D D U P Remember, your wedding gown budget doesn’t just include the dress. Your veil or headpiece, accessories, undergarments and alterations will also add to your bottom line. Factor in these costs before you give the salesperson your shopping budget.

T R U S T I S K E Y Even if a gown doesn’t look amazing on the hanger, that doesn’t necessarily mean it won’t look amazing on you. Be open to what an experienced consultant thinks will work for your body (after all, they’ve done this before). Bottom line: The dress you end up loving might be different than what you originally pictured, and that’s okay.

S A L O N S C A N S O M E T I M E S T A K E R E Q U E S T S Just because a bridal salon carries your favorite designer, doesn’t mean it’ll have the exact wedding dress you’ve been wanting to try on. But, if you phone in advance and ask about a specific style, your consultant may be able to request a loaner sample of that gown especially for you.

AMELIA NOYES

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A GUIDE TO DRESS SILHOUETTES

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LAST LOOK

As a result of COVID-19, we postponed our original wedding, opting for a small backyard minimony instead. We ended up planning an entirely new event to accommodate the pandemic regulations, complete with a video livestream. Looking back, it was perfect.

We just wanted to get married and were stoked we got to do that. At the end of the day, we were able to have a beautiful, intimate wedding, and we wouldn’t change anything about it.

Aliyya + Rob 7.12 | DANVILLE, CALIFORNIA PHOTOGRAPH BY APOLLO FOTOGRAFIE

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JAS I G N AT U R E .C O M