1. Location 

If you choose to elope, the sky is the limit. So hop on a plane, go on a road trip or head down to the courthouse with your soon to be betrothed and have the elopement of your dreams! Below are a few photos that prove no matter where you choose to tie the knot, it can be absolutely magical.

Vegas Baby!

City Hall Cuties

Paris, Please

2. Legalities

Eloping, while a supposed less stressful option, can also get technical. Each state and country has its own laws regarding marriage licenses, so don’t forget to do your research. If you are eloping in a different country you will want to call the country’s U.S. tourist bureau for information. If you’re staying in the states, check out this complete list of marriage laws by state.

3. Say Cheese!

Like any great occasion in life, pictures are a must! Your friends and family will want to see the special moments you and your sweetheart shared but more importantly, you will have photos to look back on. You could even take it a step further and hire a videographer like Courtney and Blaine (below) did. Just prepare yourself for some happy tears every time you watch.

4. Attire

When you elope, you don’t have to play by anyone’s rules! Have fun with your attire and wear what you like, whether it’s a casual get-up, a formal dress, or something in between. Below are a few of our favorite elopement ensembles.

5. Make it Official

If you’re not going to the courthouse, you’ll need someone to officiate (unless you’re eloping in Colorado or Pennsylvania, where you can self-solemnize your wedding). If you hire an officiant out of town, be sure to do research and make sure your religious views align. If you’re interested in having a friend or family member marry you, it’s fairly easy to become a temporary officiant. Laws regarding this vary from state to state so again, do your research!

6. The Guest List

Yes, you’re avoiding the stressful situation that is seating charts, but you still have a couple of decisions to make. Most states require two witnesses to sign a marriage license but again, it varies from state to state. You could invite two close friends to join you, a couple of family members, or even have your photographer and videographer sign. On the other hand, if you’d like to invite your family to witness your elopement, there certainly aren’t any rules saying you can’t, even if you all just head to city hall!

7. Celebrate Good Times

Once you’re husband and wife, take time to celebrate! Whether it’s lunch with your new hubby, exploring a new city after your international elopement, or a proper party with your friends and family, is up to you.

8. The Big Announcement

Many a family member has and will get upset over missing a loved ones nuptials but there are ways to soothe those who are upset. Traditionally, couples who elope do so without telling anyone until after the deed is done. These days many couples choose to clue in their family members, allowing them to feel like they are a part of the day. Whatever you choose, do tell your close family and friends first. Many couples are opting to send other friends and family elopement announcements in the mail (we told you that photographer would come in handy).

Are you considering eloping? We hope this list was a helpful in getting you started planning your perfect elopement. Let us know your dream elopement location in the comments below!

1. Pinterest Dreamin’

We get it. The wedding dress images on Pinterest are endless and awe-inspiring. It’s hard not to pin every single beautiful image you scroll past. Consider this while you’re pinning away with hearts in your eyes — You have to choose one. Just one. Try deciding on a general style and only pin dresses that fit within that, making notes on what you like and dislike about each dress. You can then show your consultant your newly organized and detailed Pinterest board at your bridal salon appointment. She’ll thank you and you will find the perfect dress in no time.

2. Embarrassment

Even if your mom can keep the naked baby photos to herself, you’re bound to have an embarrassing moment or two at your bridal salon appointment. I ripped a slip with my large tush, walked out of the dressing room with a dress completely unzipped and flashed my boobs to my consultant about 20 times. I survived (and found a great dress). If you run into similar situations just remember that it’s your day and to have fun! Finding a wedding dress (while important) is a matter best dealt with while wearing a smile.

3. Indecision

And you thought cleaning up your Pinterest board was difficult! Just wait until you’re at your bridal salon appointment with five top favorite dresses. Mom has a favorite, your sister has a favorite, your bff has a favorite and you have a big decision to make. Too many opinions can make your decision difficult so take that into consideration when choosing who to take with you to your appointment. When it comes down to it, try on accessories with your favorite dresses. As a very visual person, this helped me visualize the final product and make a final decision.

4. Clarity

When you finally decide what dress will be the dress, emotions can run high. For me it was just a relief. So while I didn’t cry and my mother certainly didn’t cry, I knew I made the right choice. Most bridal salons will make a special announcement of some sort that will make you feel like you’ve accomplished something huge (and you kinda have). At this point you should be feeling confident in your choice and happy that you are one step closer to marrying the man of your dreams!

5. Cold Feet

That clarity you felt at your bridal salon appointment may eventually waver. What if you didn’t try enough on? Should you have gone with the first one? Is there a better dress out there that you haven’t seen yet? These are all questions that will race through your mind amidst the stress of wedding planning. You may call mom. You may have a short cry. It’s probably nothing a little reassurance from mom can’t help. If you have these thoughts consistently though, don’t be afraid to reach out to your bridal salon to see what your options are.

6. The Big Day

The emotional rollercoaster you went through will all be worth it when your soon-to-be spouse see’s you for the first time on your wedding day. You will likely never wear something more expensive, beautiful and special so soak it up! It’s not likely you will wear this dress again so hire a photographer you trust to capture all the beautiful moments of your special day.

Did you experience any of these emotions while buying your dress? What was your favorite part of wedding dress shopping? Let’s start a conversation in the comments below!

1. Comfort Food

Have you ever thought about how great Fall food is? For example; caramel apples, pies, popcorn and even donuts. It’s like a build up to Thanksgiving! These comfort foods make for great wedding desserts and cocktail hour snacks.

2. Warm Color Palettes

The warm, deep colors of Fall just can’t be beat. It’s not all burgundy and burnt orange, though! Below are some of our favorite and fresh, warm color palettes.

3. Soft Lighting

Soft, warm lighting will really set the mood for a Fall wedding and there are so many ways to achieve the look! You could incorporate candles in your centerpieces, string some fairy lights or go as far as booking a venue with a fireplace!

4. Autumnal Alchohol

Gone are the spritzers of Summer! Your guests will jump at the chance to warm up with a cup of hot apple cider. Spike it with some rum for a fun kick! And those fall themed cocktails? They’re as tasty as they are Instagramable.

5. Cozy Up

Sometimes we sacrifice our warmth for a super stylish outfit (even though you don’t have to). Regardless, whether you’re the bride, a bridesmaid or a guest, we’ve got you covered (literally). Below are some unique and stylish ways to cozy up at a Fall wedding.

Are you planning a Fall wedding? What cozy touches will you sprinkle into your big day? Let us know in the comments!

Not all of us are willing to sacrifice our warmth in the name of fashion, because guess what, you don’t have to! Nope, not even on your wedding day. While the gowns of Spring and Summer are beautiful, there’s something especially eye-catching about a wedding gown with sleeves. Keep reading to see 10 times we fell in LOVE with long-sleeved wedding gowns.

1. Dreamlike Dress

The photography is almost as gorgeous as the gown on this one (almost). Elizabeth de Varga stole our hearts with this skirt fit for a princess and those dainty lace sleeves.

2. Cabin Fever

Again with the gorgeous views! This bride donned a gorgeous, full-skirted dress by Hailey Paige. The off the shoulder sleeves add a special touch that likely kept her cozy at this homey cabin.

3. Fairy-like Features

You don’t see dresses like this everyday! This nude number by Cleo Borello is perfect for brides who want something a little different and whimsical.

4. Falling In Love

If you weren’t already dreaming of a Fall wedding we have a feeling this Claire Pettibone dress and the 70’s inspired sleeves will sway you.

5. Beautiful and Boho

Dress designing wizard, Hailey Paige, donned her own designs at her wedding. Our favorite of the bunch though, is this beautiful boho number.

6. Vintage Vibes

If you’re not finding what you’re looking for in bridal stores, take a cue from this bride and look elsewhere. This vintage inspired gown came from Stone Cold Fox.

7. She’s a Lady

It’s not all lace and princess skirts! This bride has us dreaming of a classic design like this gown from Atelier by Dawn.

8. Tons of Tulle

An all tulle gown is one of our favorite styles of relaxed, boho dresses. This particular dress from Alva Bridal wows us with the sheer detail along the sleeves.

9. Etsy FTW

Marisol Aparicio creates gorgeous bridal accessories available on her Etsy store. These sheer sleeves with floral appliqués really caught our eye for the Fall season.

10. Details to Die For

From the intricate design of the bodice to the flowing, tulle skirt accented with lace trim, this dress is to die for. Maggie Soterro can do no wrong in our book.

Are you planning a Fall wedding? What dress design did you go for? Does the weather affect your dress making decision where you live? Let us know in the comments!

1. Ruffles

This Chanel dress is to die for but there are so many other ways you can incorporate the ruffles trend into your wedding dress. Going for more of a ballgown? Do it with ruffles! Looking for something different? Try a peplum with ruffles! Of course, the layered lace ruffled dress is always classic and pretty and absolutely appropriate for a wedding dress.

2. Velvet

Fall Weddings call for warm, cozy touches and we can’t think of a more fashionable way to do that than with a little velvet! You can easily incorporate velvet into any of your details (or all of them). Side note; a dress similar to this burgundy Ralph Lauren would be beautiful for your bridesmaids!

3. Statement Fur

Faux furs can be found anywhere (and we mean anywhere) this season. You’ll find lush furs in every color from your local Target to the Valentino runway. Looking for a way to stay warm at your Fall wedding? A fur coat or capelette may be the chicest way to go!

4. Chokers

Your inner nineties girl would be so proud. Yes, chokers have come back in such a way that it is officially acceptable to wear them to your wedding. While you might don a darker choker to attend a wedding, consider something lighter and girlier for your own. Lace, pearls and rhinestones are the way to go here!

5. Bell Sleeves

The 70’s trends are still going strong this year and this may be one of our favorites. The bell sleeve is subtle but it’s an easy way to add interest and personality. The best part? It looks absolutely gorgeous on a wedding gown! We have a feeling we will be seeing more of these gowns in the future.

6. Metallic Gold

If you’re a girl who likes her glitter and glam you’ll love this trend! Metallics will be popping up in everyday casual wear so why not glitz up that wedding gown? There are so many gold, glittery options in wedding dresses meaning you can be as subtle or as loud as you want with this one!

What Fall fashion trends are you pining over? How are you incorporating them into your wedding day attire? Let’s chat in the comments below!

As modern women (and men) we have choices and that includes what we register for. In 2016, whatever your lifestyle looks like, there’s a wedding registry for you. This is not your mother’s wedding registry. We’ve compiled the best of the best registry sites for every kind of couple. Keep reading to find the perfect one for you and your boo!

1. All Inclusive

Variety is the spice of life (and your registry). You can register for literally anything on Zola whether you find it on the Zola website or add it from another website. You can also register for special experiences like wine tasting, cooking lessons or skydiving. None of those options speaking to you? Create your very own registry item!

2. I Do I Give

Sometimes all you need is love. Spread the joy a little further by asking your guests to donate to a charity of your choosing in honor of your wedding. Just Give allows you to choose a charity you and your fiancé are passionate about and makes it easy for your guests to give.

3. Honeymoon Bliss

There are few things we know to be true in life and one of those things is you can never travel too much. You can however have too many blenders. Instead of registering for home goods, consider registering for your dream honeymoon at Honeyfund! Guests will be able gift you a snorkeling adventure, a romantic dinner, a night in a hotel or even your plane tickets.

4. Home is Where the Heart is

Pleased with your appliances but hate your kitchen? Saving up for a down payment on a home? Preparing a nursery for your future family? Feather the Nest is the perfect registry for you. Post photos, descriptions or even videos letting your guests know how they can help make your house a home.

5. Gift Card Crazy

Gift cards have been a go to gift for years and for good reason. Card Avenue takes gift card giving to the next level. You’ll be able to register for gift cards to all your favorite stores on one simple platform. Talk about a no-stress registry!

6. Stumped Sweethearts

Still stumped? Newlywish.com allows you to browse registries based on your lifestyle. Whether you’re health nuts, world travelers, book worms, or fashionista’s, the curated lists make it easy to find coordinating items that you’ll love and use for years to come.

What wedding registry site will you use for your wedding? Did we miss any of your favorites? Let us know in the comments!

1. Say Yes to the Boho Dress

You won’t find many ball gowns around here! Boho brides are most often seen donning a relaxed, A-line dress. Relaxed and casual? Yes. Boring? No. Boho gowns feature gorgeous and unique details inspired by 70s’ fashion. More on the evolution of bridal style here.

A few of our favorite gowns with some serious boho vibes…

2. Top it Off

While a beautiful flower crown is an obvious choice, it’s not the only choice! Top off your wedding day digs with a gorgeous lace veil for a 70s’ chic look. Pop in a beaded hair piece for a more glamorous boho look. If you do go for the tried and true flower crown, it’s best to have your florist create it with fresh flowers that coordinate with your other flowers.

A few fab boho bridal headpieces…

3. You Are Cordially Invited

Your invites will be your guest’s first peak at the relaxed vibe of your bohemian wedding. Invitation wording can be so stuffy! All those rules about how to address whom and where? You can throw those out the window in lieu of wording that is meaningful to you and your family. From rustic to romantic and everything in between, you’re sure to find an invitation design that wows everyone on your guest list.

Very different (and very beautiful) takes on boho invites…

4. Not the Dress

It’s not the dress, but it’s a dress more important than many dresses you’ll wear in your life. Lifelong memories, remember? A little white dress is maybe the easiest clothing item to find, but no, not all white lace dresses are created equal! When shopping for this dress, look for unique designs and details.

Speaking of white lace dresses with unique details…

5. Mixing and Matching

Dressing the dudes isn’t always simple. Just like your bridesmaids, they’re likely going to have different body shapes and style preferences. This is where a bohemian wedding is. the. best. The undone look of mix and match styles in a similar color palette really suits the free-spirited, laid back vibe of a bohemian wedding.

Pick and choose from unique accessories like these…

6. Decor and More

An outdoor wedding really plays well with the woodsy, romantic vibe of a boho wedding. The beautiful nature will add more to your decor than any amount of tulle ever could! One thing you will need — heaps of flowers. Wildflowers with lots of greenery will mesh well with the surrounding nature. Other than that? Feel free to add fun vintage touches like macrame wall hangings, suitcases, rugs, or even dream catchers!

Vintage touches you just don’t see every day…

7. The Perfect Place

While an outdoor venue is a beautiful option, it’s not your only option. Wherever you live, try thinking outside of the box when searching for the perfect place to to tie the knot. With enough space and the right rentals, any location can serve as a wedding venue. For example; an old theatre, your grandma’s back yard, an old warehouse, a museum, a library or even a greenhouse.

In case you can’t quite imagine these unique venues…

8. Gowns for Your Girls

You didn’t think we forgot about your #bridesquad, did you? Your ladies will love that you’re having a boho wedding. You could pick one gorgeous gown with a boho feel or just give your girls a color scheme to stay within and set them free in Free People! Result? A deconstruct look and happy pals!

Get inspired by a few of our favorites…

9. Aesthetic Goals

Yes, even your cake can be boho. Aesthetic goals. Leave the icing florets at the bakery — boho cakes are simple and romantic. Details like flowers and cake stands will add something special to your delicious dessert. More “naked” cakes here.

Three variations on a simple and romantic cake…

10. Kiddie Approved

Can’t forget the little ones! We’re quite positive the children in your wedding will approve of the laid back vibe of your boho wedding. There are so many cute touches you can add here and they will eat. it. up. Click here for even more inspiration for the little ones.

Three different takes on boho style for the little ones…

Dreaming of a bohemian wedding yet? Yea, we thought so! What aspect sold you? The decor? Venues? Clothing? Let us know in the comments!

1. Tried and True

First things first — you’ve got to pack your goodies in something! You simply can’t go wrong with Louie Vuitton. LV is so iconic because their designs never go out of style!

2. Sneakers on a Plane

Here’s hoping your plane ride to your honeymoon destination is nothing like “Snakes on a Plane”. Your snakeskin sneakers on the other hand, will undoubtedly turn some heads! If you’re looking to travel in comfort and style, (and who isn’t?) these designer sneakers are for you.

3. Beach Bum Babe

If you’re planning on doing a whole lotta nothing on the beach with your babe, you’re going to need a swimsuit that makes you feel like a million bucks! Lucky for you, one-piece swimsuits are back and better than ever. This striped suit puts off some serious retro vibes, but features the very modern, low-cut back that is so trendy right now.

4. Oversized Obsessions

*Disclaimer — You’ll need a beach bag this large by the time you’re done reading this list. We’re overly obsessed with this oversized tote for two reasons. 1. It’s big enough to carry your stuff and his (but don’t tell him that).  2. It has a seriously classic beachy vibe, while remaining seriously chic.

5. La Mer = Luxury

While you’re soaking up the sun with your sweetie, remember, there’s nothing glamorous about skin cancer. This luxury product protects your skin from harmful UV rays, while reversing signs of aging.

6. Breezy and Beautiful

For those days when you just want to wear your swimsuit all day long, you’ll need something breezy and beautiful to throw on. It’s not every day you see a denim colored cover-up, which is why we love this one!

7. Dior Does it Again

Speaking of sun protectants, let’s talk sunglasses! Dior does a beautiful pair in this seasons trendiest color, rose gold. Protecting your retinas from the sun has never looked so chic.

8. Effortless Style

Spending a day exploring your tropical paradise? Rompers are the perfect way to look like a goddess without putting in the effort of putting together an outfit. Just throw on this gorgeous, teal number on and you’re ready for a day out and about with your handsome man!

9. The Essentials

Because you can’t run around barefoot for your entire honeymoon, you’ll need something basic and comfortable that you can dress up or down. Steve Madden can do no wrong in this department.

10. Your Year in White

Dinner date for two? Continue Your Year in White with this crochet maxi. The pretty, romantic look of it really sells us. The crochet fabric (i.e.breathable) is just a bonus. Perfect for a romantic getaway on an indescribable (and hot) island.

11. A Little Lingerie

You know we had to include this somewhere on our list! A little lingerie never hurt anyone, so if you’ve never been the type to wear something so luxurious to bed, your honeymoon is the time to try it out. Nothing too scandalous here — just a fun, tropical printed, short and tank set in satin.

Hope you found this list fun and useful! Which of these luxury items (if not all of them) will you be taking with you on your honeymoon? If you’ve already taken your honeymoon, what’s the number one thing you would recommend packing? Discuss in the comments!

Martinez, who has shot all over North America, says nothing compares to Alaska. After seeing the Glacier Bride photos, we have to agree! A talented and innovative photographer alone wasn’t enough to make this shoot work though, the bride and groom Martinez worked with were willing to do anything to get the perfect shot!

As you saw in the video above, in order to access the gorgeous glacier, Martinez and the couple traveled via helicopter. Here, the couple was caught smooching near their chariot! If you think this view is something, what came next will knock your socks off.

Did we mention the couple was willing to do anything for the perfect shot? That included wading around in glacier water in their wedding attire. What we don’t know is how they gained the super human strength to look so serene in this photo. What we do know is that the work was worth it!

The beautiful bride sacrificed not just her comfort, but her dress! Result? One of the most breathtaking Trash the Dress photos of all time. The contrast of the stark blue water and her gorgeous white gown is breathtaking. What Martinez has never told anyone is that he used only natural light for the whole shoot. He had brought ample Profoto lighting, but decided to nix it at the last second.

Have these images convinced you to go for adventurous wedding photos? Can’t blame you there! Here’s what Martinez has to say to couples looking to get bold and beautiful wedding photos; “Prioritize your day. You can’t balance your way into epic photography. It has to be one of the top priorities for you and the wedding day. Find a photographer who will push your limits and reward you with something truly remarkable.”

Knowing Martinez lives for adventure and excitement, it was no surprise to us that his favorite part of shooting a wedding is the emotion, drama and suspense of the whole day. With all the distractions of a wedding, it can be easy to bottle up all your emotions. Those emotions tend to pour out when a photographer steals the couple away for a few quiet moments of photography, resulting in intimate photos like the one above! 

When it comes to his own relationship, it sounds like Martinez and his wife are picture perfect together! As far as adventures go, Martinez says “If the day ends with a glass of wine or a morning at the spa, she’s in!” Sounds like our kind of girl. The couple now lives in Nashville, Tennessee where they are raising their four children.

Learn more about Josh Martinez.

Keep up with Martinez’s latest adventures.

Hire Martinez for your wedding day.

1. Shopping in Style

For the bride who’s always ‘on brand’, wearing white to your bridal shop appointment is a must! Pictured is Olivia Watson of Livvy Land, in a ’70s-esque white, lace top. Her light wash jeans make the look low maintenance and relaxed (perfect for a big shopping day)!

2. Engagement Party Ensemble

Your engagement party is the theatre equivalent of an opening act. No one knows exactly what will happen after, but they’re excited and energetic and no drama has happened yet. Your opening act outfit should be nothing less than dazzling. Ranti, of Ranti in Review, is pictured in a fabulous and classic white dress that would be perfect!

3. Bridal Shower Style

Girlfriends, grandmas and gal pals of every kind will gather to shower you with love. While you will want to look and feel great, you’ll also want to feel comfortable. This dress by Moda Operandi is perfect for sipping mimosas and playing party games with all the leading ladies is your life.

4. Bachelorette Party Pantsuit

Plunging necklines are a huge trend right now, but not everyone is comfortable showing all that cleavage in front of gam gam. Your bachelorette party is a perfect time to try the trend! This pantsuit is daring, yet breezy and breathable — perfect for a summer night out with your pals.

5. Rehearsal Dinner Dress

Do we even need to explain this one? Every dress from BHLDN, Anthropologie’s Wedding collection, is gorgeous and unique. This one is so pretty and so delicate, it’d be a crime NOT to wear it during Your Year in White.

6. The Big Day

We saved the best for last! Your wedding dress is the biggest, baddest, most beautiful white dress you will ever wear. We love the Marchesa, pictured above, but every bride’s taste is a little different! Check out this year’s biggest bridal trends here. (Trust us, there’s something for everyone).

What’s your favorite look from our list? Will you be donning white all year long? Any tips on keeping your whites bright and clean? Let’s discuss in the comment below!