Hey Brides!

Here are a few wedding ideas from my perspective. If I were to get married again (to the same guy of course) I would definitely consider some of these adorable decoratives and ideas.

I love arriving to a wedding and seeing HUNDREDS of details and personalized crafts to photograph! It makes for the most unique and memorable photos.

Here are a few tips to consider when planning your future wedding.

Bridesmaids- Thinking outside David's Bridal

One thing I've noticed is how expensive bridesmaid dresses can be if you want something custom and different, even at Davids Bridal... and the dresses there are SO COMMON!

One of my favorite stores EVER is Anthropologie. This place is heaven to me. I was there the other day and came across the most adorable dresses and thought "these would be perfect bridesmaid dresses"... and the cost?.. $79.95!! There are even cuter dresses for around $168. The sizes range from 0-14, so most bridesmaids will fit them perfectly. Thats not even the best part- the biggest perk is the likely hood of you ever running into another bride with the same dresses is slim to none! I know you won't be the ONLY one out there with Anthropologie dresses, but your bridesmaids will look chic and adorable AND be able to REALLY wear that dress again! :)

Check out the dress!

and another great find that would look adorable in a summer wedding!- Forever 21

Other great stores to consider for dresses:

H&M (no store in CO)

Zara

Jcrew

Banana Republic

Something New Boutique- a great local store with an excellent variety of selections

I am all about personalization!

Details- Thinking outside the veil and pearls

Also if you have not heard of Etsy.com, consider me your savior. :) This is a fantastic website were crafty and artsy people everywhere can sell their adorable creations. From birdcage wedding veils to clip in hair pieces to custom wedding shoes to wedding invitations!

Here are some of my quick favorites...

perfectly adorable cake topper

Hair clips

Shoe Clips!

         photos courtesy of Etsy.com

Hair- Think outside the updo

For some reason many brides think there is a rule to follow that says you MUST wear your hair tied up and back on your wedding day. Why? Where is that written? I often find that some of the most beautiful brides I have photographed let their hair down and kept it natural and added a nice POP with a cute hair clip, band or flower.

Now, not all of us can boast of gorgeous naturally long flowy hair, so in the event that an up-do is needed or wanted make sure you consult with a hairstlyist who is informed of all the new and modern styles. One thing I just cannot stand is a bride who arrives with a bouffant that just won't quit or a gelled slicked back bun, or worse- crunchy curls!

I cannot STRESS enough the importance of a well informed and well educated hairstlyist. When looking for the right stylist ask to see photos of previous brides they have done.

One of my favorites here in Colorado Springs is my good friend Heidi Mitchell. She understands the balance between glamorous and natural. If you are looking for a great hair lady and your goal is to look elegant and sexy- look no further and contact Heidi!

Here are just a few ideas of my favorite hairstyles, but then again I am only a photographer NOT a hair expert. I just know what looks great on camera! 

The simple elegance of this style allows for the eye to go directly to her beautiful features

 youthful, trendy and modern

I wish my hair could pull off this classic 1950's old hollywood wave- classy and elegant

Large curls are always an eye catcher on camera and the headband completes the look well

keeping it simple and natural- perfect for looking just like YOURSELF on your wedding day.

the long and loose waves create a sexy and dramatic look- especially with her coloring- the raspberry lip tone pulls it all together visually.

Photos courtesy of Brides.com

Location- Think outside the church

I am not a Bride who thought outside the church when I tied the knot 3 yrs. ago, but I think if I were to do it all again I WOULD think outside the church! A wedding is an evet that only comes around ONCE! (for most people) and it is one of the most beautiful and important events of your LIFE. Why not make it completely unique and designed to fit you and your fiance perfectly.... not just get married for the sake of it and plan an event that has been done thousands of times before. 

Here are some fun ideas on thinking outside the church-

A Boat or Yacht!

How gorgeous would that be? A cool salty breeze whisping through your hair as you say your vows. And this doesn't HAVE to cost a fortune! Do some research! If its a smaller event, maybe renting a boat or yacht would equal to hosting a large reception with dinner and drinks for all at a fancy hotel... just a thought.

On a Rooftop overlooking a city-

If you and your fiance are city dwellers who love nightlife and feel at home in a busy metropolis- then this may be a perfect fit for you! Look into some restaurants over looking your city and ask them if they do weddings! 

An old Barn-

How perfectly Colorado is this? If you are a country girl at heart who would rather ride horseback through the mountains than get a pedicure then this may be the perfect fit for you. If I was going for this option I would think about all the country folk connections I have and see where it leads me.. maybe Grandpa Earl has a cousin with a ranch out in Buena Vista! You never know... :)

Under a HUGE tree-

There is nothing more magestic and serene than the sight of a massive Oak or Willow tree. I think this would be my #1 pick if I were to plan a wedding, just the very thought takes me away to a summery hill with the golden light of sunset painting the perfect silhouette of a towering willow. *sigh*... yes this is my favorite.

Where would one find such a tree? Take a drive through your State parks and find land that is open to the public, then look for the perfect tree. I am sure there are designated wedding venues with trees here in Colorado, however I have not found one as of yet. If you DO know of one let me know! I would love to recommend it to my brides!

photo courtesy of brides.com

Flowers- Think outside the rose- actually, think outside the FLOWER!  

Now, I have nothing against the rose! It is such a classy flower however there are SO many breathtaking flowers out there who do not get enough recognition! Also, who says you HAVE to have a flower bouquet?

I saw the CUTEST bouquet on another wedding blog made of BUTTONS (see below)! I once had a bride who had her bridesmaids carry little clutch purses down the aisle. Loved it!

ideas-

the vintage broach bouquet

 the button bouquet

the felt flower bouquet- great for the budget conscious bride

 the feather bouquet

the wool yarn bouquet!- also budget conscious! and SO creative.

If you like the idea of flowers, how about something simple and different? Like freshly picked lilacs?

or something very unique- artichokes!

or something bright and bubbley

 or something edible- a bouquet of herbs

So there you have it.. a few fun and fresh ideas for a wedding that is sure to impress and connect with you and your guests on a more personal level... and make for some memorable photos!!! 

Hope you enjoyed this long and very girly post!

For more wedding planning info and all around fabulous ideas, visit some of these great wedding planning websites-

Weddingchicks.com

stylemepretty.com

marthastewartweddings.com

brides.com

etsy.com

Happy planning... or dreaming! ;)

*I welcome comments with other amazingly unique and personalized wedding details or ideas*