5 Ways to Style a Black & White Wedding

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

The beautiful thing about black and white weddings is that they can be classic, elegant, and utterly chic—or totally untraditional, modern, and creative. One thing all black and white weddings do have in common? Unforgettable style.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

You can’t go wrong with this classy color scheme. Black is flattering on all body types and adds an air of special elegance to your celebration. Check out these five easy ways to style an absolutely jaw-dropping black and white wedding.

Philadelphia-Wedding-Photographer_Jessica-Cooper-Photography-2Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Black & White Anemones
Anemones bring effortless drama to your whole look. Arresting and elegant, these lovely flowers are a striking choice for bouquets or centerpieces. Style a traditional bridal bouquet by adding white roses or go for a sprawling, wild look by mixing in greenery.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

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Black Tie Attire
Obviously a black and white wedding should be a black tie affair. Your groom and his friends will look sharp in tuxedos (white or black). Add an elegant black sash to your gown to accentuate the theme. If you’re really thinking outside the box, throw in a pair of swanky black shoes or vintage lace gloves!

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Dazzling Dresses
A white or ivory bridal gown isn’t your only option. Slimming, sensual black gowns make a bold impression—whether you dress up your bridesmaids, don a LBD for the reception, or gracefully glide down the aisle in a tulle ball gown. Shimmering sequins in gold or silver also complement a glamorous black and white color scheme.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Sparkling Jewelry
Stunning bling is a must-have for any formal wedding. Fine tune your look with an elegant rhinestone jewelry set, vintage-inspired black drop earrings, or a warm gold accent like a bracelet or belt. If you’ve chosen a strapless gown, consider shoulder jewelry! Ideally, pick something you’d love to wear again for a special occasion.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Cathedral Veil
There’s nothing more romantic and beautiful than a cathedral veil. When you stand before your wedding guests, that pretty bit of tulle becomes the focal point of your wardrobe. Choosing a gorgeous cathedral veil adds unforgettable elegance to your look. When you take it off for the reception, show off a sparkly headpiece. You are only a bride for a day!

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How are you styling your black and white wedding? Let us know!

Gorgeous in Rhinestone…

5 Secrets to Know Before You Choose a Diamond Engagement Ring

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Ever wonder why engagement rings cost so much?

A lot goes into that bit of bling besides just the 4 C’s (cut, carat, clarity, color). The setting and origin of your diamond, for example, play a role in the overall cost—as well as where you buy it, the warranty, and so much more!

So we sat down with an Accredited Jewelry Professional (and bona-fide expert on gemology) to get the inside scoop. Here are five secrets about the diamond industry you should know before you say “I do” to that sparkly engagement ring.

Quality matters more than quantity.

A lot of shoppers are impressed by carat, but it’s not just the size that counts. For a truly gorgeous ring, focus on quality. Consider the clarity and scintillation of your stone. What is the color grade? Are there inclusions? How was it cut? A brilliant cut gem such as a round or princess diamond will hide imperfections better than a step-cut gem such as an emerald-cut or baguette-cut diamond.

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Conflict-free is harder to find than you’d think.

 Many of the big jewelry chains cannot guarantee a conflict-free stone. Be aware of where your diamond comes from and get your stone from a certified, ethical source. Thanks to online resources, it’s much easier to find out of the store’s claims are legit. Also, you should be able to ask questions and get a detailed, intelligent response. Your ring is an investment. If the salesperson doesn’t seem to know what they are talking about, go elsewhere.

What the ring represents matters.

An engagement ring is more than just how much sparkle you can get for your buck. Your ring purchase symbolizes the promise of a life together, so consider your situation when picking a design. For example, avoid spending a ton if you are saving for a house or paying off debt. Choose a ring that best fits you right now, as a couple. While you shouldn’t settle for poor quality or a style you don’t like, remember that you can always add bands or upgrade in a few years for an anniversary or big life event.

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Rings require regular maintenance.

Think you can throw a ring on your finger, and it’ll be good for 30 years? Um, not so much. Proper maintenance is important because the metal band gets worn down from everyday use and chemical exposure. Avoid applying lotions when you are wearing your ring, and skip generic jewelry cleaners. Stores will clean your ring with steam or an ultrasonic treatment, so take it in every six months (or at least every year) for a proper cleaning. Diamonds can scratch the metal or fall out if the settings are loose. If you suspect a damaged setting, immediately snap a photo and take your ring in for repair.

Protect your ring with insurance and safe keeping.

Your ring is made of precious metal and delicate stone, so treat it kindly. Get insurance so you won’t have to pay if it gets stolen or damaged. When you do take it off, keep it on a ring holder or put it in a trinket dish so it doesn’t get lost. Most gold blends and silver bands will tarnish over time because the metal slowly oxidizes when exposed to the air. When possible, store it in a bag or box. Even if it looks fine, take the ring back to the shop for routine cleanings and inspections.

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Overall, you should choose a meaningful engagement ring that is right for your financial situation. As with a relationship, you can’t just forget about it and expect it to last. Take excellent care of your ring and you’ll be able to pass that bit of sparkly on to the next generation.

10 Signs She’s the One

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Some people just know when they’ve found The One. For the rest of us, however, it’s not always so clear. How can you be absolutely sure that your relationship will continue to grow?

Bottom line: you can’t see the future. A few pretty good indicators, however, can point you in the right direction—whether that’s running for the hills or taking the plunge!

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She laughs at your jokes.

Let’s begin with the obvious. Connecting with humor and sharing jokes will help you get over life’s difficult hurdles together. Plus it’s just nice to have someone who gets you.

She listens intensely to what you say.

When you’re going to spend the rest of your life together, your conversations had better be interesting! She connects with you on an intellectual level and you’ve shared many meaningful discussions.

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She shares your important values.

You’ve discussed your faith, whether or not you want children, and where you see yourself in ten years. You agree with and/or respect her beliefs, and envision a blissfully happy future together.

She respects your personal time/space.

You two get along great, but also understand that you don’t have to do everything together. When you hang out with the guys, relax alone in front of a video game, or work out at the gym, she’s cool with it.

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You adore spending time with her.

On the flip side, she is seriously so fun and amazing that you can’t imagine not wanting to hang out with her. In fact, it would be a lot easier if you two just lived together, so you wouldn’t have to commute and deal with roommates.

She loves what you love.

Sharing common hobbies or interests is definitely a plus. If you appreciate the same movies or are into the same sports, you’ll always have something fun to do together.

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You like her hair.

And the way her perfume smells. And the way she giggles. You are totally into the small details about how she acts and styles herself every day. You find her incredibly attractive and the two of you enjoy a passionate romantic connection.

You wouldn’t care if she went bald.

Seriously. If she had to shave off those lovely locks or stopped wearing high heels, you wouldn’t care (at least, not much). First and foremost, you are in love with her personality.

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She cares about you.

About your problems, about your career, about your fleeting daily struggles. She finds ways to cheer you up and goes out of her way to be nice. She is a bright and positive influence in your life.

You like her friends/family.

You’ll see each other’s friends and family quite a bit, so it’s a good sign if you get along! Each of you will turn to your support networks for advice and encouragement when times get tough.

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Now go through this list and flip the scenarios. Do you laugh at her jokes? Do you listen intensely to her philosophical musings? Does she enjoy spending time with your friends?

If your relationship isn’t a two-way street, change things up. On the other hand, if you can’t imagine feeling happier, it might be time to go ring shopping.

How did you know he/she was the One? Share your story!

3 Ways to Style a Boho Wedding Look

Do you love the outdoors? Are you into sunshine, soft flowers and breezy skirts? Do you adore the idea of a wedding on the beach or in a garden? You might be a bohemian bride!

Nature-inspired accessories, untraditional gowns, and off-the-beaten-path venues are the hallmarks of the whimsical bride. Go boho-chic for your spring or summer wedding with just three items.

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Get a dreamy veil. A soft Chantilly lace veil like V7309 or a breezy cut edge design like V7234 creates a stunning bridal accent that sets your style apart.

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Wear a nature-inspired headpiece. Floral headbands like 6588 with metallic flowers or 6571 with soft blooms add lavish romance. Designs with vines or leaves such as 6628 and 6634 grace your locks with glittering bohemian glamour.

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Carry a messy bouquet. Free-flowing, trailing, cascading, overflowing—anything but a prim and proper bundle of roses. Incorporate local plants, wild flowers, succulents, grasses, or even feathers for true bohemian beauty.

How are you styling your bohemian wedding? Share your ideas!

Chicago Bridal Market Recap—Fall 2016 Trends

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We were so thrilled to see many of our fabulous retail partners at the Chicago Bridal Market! We unveiled our new line for Fall 2016 and got to check out the new trends for this season. If you missed us, we’ll also be in Dallas and New York—so be sure you have our newest bits of pretty for your store!IMG_4907.JPG

Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Biggest trends in the world of bridal include lovely two piece coordinates, daring nude lace dresses, and gold embroidered gowns. Trendy two-piece outfits allow brides to mix and match their favorite tops and skirts, creating a unique ensemble. Sensual nude lace gowns will probably appeal to only the most dramatic fashionistas, while gold embroidered gowns are perfect for the princess in us all.IMG_4926.JPG

Soft, windswept skirts with lots of layers (and perhaps a removable skirt) are great for breezy, boho weddings or ultra-modern brides. High necklines and sleeves have made a comeback, as well as add-it-yourself straps and belts to fashion a personalized look. Ornate, romantic gowns in champagne and blush are still topping the trend forecast, with lots of lovely gold blush and gold accessories to match!

Stay tuned on our Instagram feed for sneak peeks at our new styles! If you didn’t come see us in Chicago, be sure to contact your sales representative or visit us at the Dallas or New York bridal markets.

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Not one of our retailers, but interested in our products? Brides, please visit our Store Locator to find an authorized salon near you! New stores, please contact us and learn how to Become a Retailer.

XO,

Bel Aire Bridal

6 Ways to Style an Outside-The-Box Wedding

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Getting married with a twist? If you want to stand out and avoid clichés, try on these tips for styling an outside-the-box look for your wedding.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Colored Dress

A white dress has been the traditional bridal staple for well over a hundred years. Mix it up by choosing something different! More and more wedding gown designers are playing with non-white/ivory hues, including light blue, blush pink, lavender, floral prints, gold, or even black!

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Unique Headpiece

Brides usually show up with garlands, veils, and flower combs on their wedding day. Instead, choose something unique that you would wear to a dressy party or on New Year’s Eve. Opal pins, wired crystal vines, and metallic halos can really jazz up your style.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Casual Accent Piece

Spice up your look with a casual accent. A bold jacket, stand-out shoes, or patterned scarf will do the trick. Especially if you’re wearing a white dress, this will give your outfit personality—so you can feel like yourself on the big day.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Wearable Jewelry

Most weddings call for formal bling—think pearls and rhinestones. Create a modern look by choosing jewelry you would actually, honestly wear again. Feature your birthstone or something special that you already own!

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Minimal Reception Décor

Skip the linens, china plates, and abundant flowers. Take advantage of the natural appearance of your venue; the less you have to dress up the space, the better! Get crafty and DIY personalized touches with custom calligraphy, paper flowers, and upcycled centerpieces.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

Exotic Getaway

Many couples drive off in their car or limo with cans tied to the back or a sign that says “Just Married.” For something different, try riding away on bikes, motorcycles, or horses. Take a cable car or boat. Better yet, lead a band of revelers in a parade! Point is, feel free to get creative.

How are you personalizing your out-of-the-ordinary wedding? Let us know!

Follow Vendors on Instagram For More Inspiration:

Product styling – @pippaandfig

Photography – @jessicacooperphotography

Gowns – @sweetcarolinestyles

Hair – @bellesandgrooms

Makeup –  @occasionsbydiana

5 Must-Have Items for Every Spring Bride

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It’s finally spring! The sun is peeking through, tiny birds are chirping, and trees are starting to bud. Today, we’re spotlighting lovely spring weddings and sharing our tips for how to stay warm, look stylish, and absolutely glow on your big day!

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PRETTY VEIL

There’s nothing like a whimsical veil to add glorious beauty to your bridal look. Even if you’re not a head-over-heels romantic bride, this lovely accessory is a must-have when it comes to your ceremony and bridal portraits. This is also a great opportunity to express your personal style.

Choose a soft floral lace for a touch of romance; lace appliqués or more structured Alen­çon lace for a traditional look; rhinestones or beads for fairy-tale sparkle; and a clear cut edge or light rolled edge veil for sheer elegance. Short or long, you can find a design that is totally you.

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STYLISH COVER-UP

Spring weather can be pretty unpredictable. Sure, your groom will give up his suit jacket so you don’t freeze, but do you really want to cover up your gorgeous gown—and leave him shivering?

Plan ahead by choosing a light shawl, bridal jacket or bolero, or a cute wrap. Even if it doesn’t rain, you can use it for your getaway or even honeymoon! More bridal salons are offering these accessories in a range of styles—from 3D flowers on organza to intricately beaded cover ups to silky scarves, so pick one that will keep you looking beautifully bridal.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

CHANGE OF SHOES

Whether you’re getting married inside or outdoors, you’ll want at least two pairs: one for your walk down the aisle and one for the reception. Typically, it’s best to choose a wide heel for outdoor ceremonies and formal heels for weddings inside. Reception shoes can be anything that you are comfortable dancing in for at least a couple hours—choose something attractive yet cushiony (like a flat) that you can rely on.

If it rains, it’s not a bad idea to bring an extra pair of sneakers—some brides even wear boots! Lots of great photo opps revolve around shoes, so play around and have fun. Florals, bling, and bold colors offer you a range of options.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

EMERGENCY BEAUTY KIT

Every bride should have an emergency kit for touch-ups. After all, people will be taking photos of you literally the entire day—and probably into the night, depending on how long your reception lasts.

A concealer, powder, blush, mascara, lip gloss, and lip stick are pretty standard. Make sure to include oil blotting pads or wipes, makeup remover, a comb, and spare pins. Between the ceremony and reception is a good time to sneak away to touch up.

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Photo Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

FLOWER HEADPIECE

Spring is the perfect season to grace your hair with gorgeous flowers! You can incorporate the beauty of nature with any number of headpiece options.

If you’re wearing lace, try a soft fabric flower comb or headband with delicate floral details. To jazz up a simple dress, enhance your ensemble with a sparkly hair vine or vintage-inspired comb. If you’re featuring gold in your look, choose painted gold leaves or metallic flowers. Going boho-chic? Try on a dazzling rhinestone halo. Keep looking until you find that perfect treasure for your big day.

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Are you getting married in the spring? Check out our Instagram feed for seasonal bridal inspiration!

Chicago Bridal Market Recap—Most Popular Styles in 2016

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We were so thrilled to see many of our fabulous retail partners at the Chicago Bridal Market! We unveiled our new line for Fall 2016 and got to check out the new trends for this season. If you missed us, we’ll also be in Dallas and New York—so be sure to stop by and add our newest bits of pretty to your store inventory!

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Our most popular carryovers included champagne and blush flowers, gorgeous cathedral veils, and glittering halos. Most coveted headpiece styles included 6500, 6202, 6284, 6551 (shown above), 6571, and 6435—be sure you show them off in your store! Many of these best-selling items are available to ship in as little as 1–3 weeks.

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Top-selling carryover veils included our lovely Alençon lace veil V7034, silver beaded edge veil V7056, silver rolled edge and crystal edge veil V7054, and lace appliqué veil V7159 (shown above). Be sure you have these seasonal favorites in stock to show your summer brides!

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The styles our stores loved the most from our new Fall 2016 line were sparkling combs, pretty little pins, champagne/gold belts, and gorgeous cathedral veils. Our jewelry was especially popular this season! Be sure you select a variety of styles, so that all your brides can discover a Bel Aire Bridal treasure to love.

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Stay tuned on our Instagram feed for sneak peeks at our new styles! If you didn’t come see us in Chicago, be sure to contact your sales representative or visit us at the Dallas or New York bridal markets.

Not one of our retailers, but interested in our products? Brides, please visit our Store Locator to find an authorized salon near you! New stores, please contact us and learn how to Become a Retailer.

XO,

Bel Aire Bridal

Spring Flower Inspiration for Your Wedding Pt. I

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Can you believe yesterday was the first day of spring? Now that we’re over the hump of winter, we are looking forward to all things green and blooming—and of course, spring weddings!

Take a peek at these lovely spring flowers for your décor, bouquet, color scheme, and bridal style inspiration.

Style: Pure Romance

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Peony

With hues ranging from white to blushing pink to deep raspberry, this gorgeous flower looks amazing in any bouquet. It symbolizes love, prosperity, and bashfulness. It is also the traditional flower symbol of China, the state flower of Indiana, and your 12th anniversary flower.

Lilac

The lilac generally symbolizes renewal and growth; white suggests innocence, and purple is for love. It is the state flower of New Hampshire and your 8th wedding anniversary flower.

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Build your bridal look by creating a Romantic vision board! To get you started, here’s one of our favorite designs for romantic, blushing brides: V7300, a beautiful scalloped Alençon lace veil.

Style: Sweet & Bohemian

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Daffodil

Reminiscent of spring sunshine, this lovely little flower pops up year after year! These trumpet-shaped blooms are icons of hope, joy, and inspiration. It is also the flower for your 10th anniversary.

Daisy

For the fresh optimist, this year-round flower stands for innocence, purity, and new beginnings. It comes in a variety of cheerful colors and is your 5th anniversary flower.

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Build your bridal look by creating a Bohemian vision board! To get you started, here’s one of our favorite designs for boho brides: V7234, an airy foldover veil that is as light as the breeze.

Style: Fairy-Tale Sparkle

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Snowdrop

One of the first flowers to appear after winter’s snows, these lovely little white blooms symbolize hope in the face of adversity. They can also be used for sympathy or as a sign of rebirth.

Cherry Blossom

These delicate white or pink flowers stand for renewal, optimism, and the fleeting nature of life. They are the national flower of Japan and are associated with beauty in China.

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Build your bridal look by creating a Fairy-Tale wedding vision board! To get you started, here’s one of our favorite designs for glamorous brides: V7175, a stunningly dramatic  lace cathedral veil.

Style: Classic Beauty

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Ranunculus

Ranging from bright yellow buttercups to decadent pinks to pretty white flowers, these boldly beautiful blooms symbolize charm and attraction.

Garden Rose

Also known as cabbage roses for their abundant petals, these lovely blooms are especially fragrant and evoke a variety of meanings, depending on their colors.  Roses are a traditional gift for not just Valentine’s Day, but also your 15th anniversary.

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Build your bridal look by creating a Classic wedding vision board! To get you started, here’s one of our favorite designs for elegant brides: V7303, a two-tier folded ribbon edge veil that says bride with beautiful simplicity.

Want more pretty flowers to brighten your day? Check out our Beautiful Blooms board on Pinterest for more gorgeous floral inspiration!