BridalGuide blogs

A Winter Wonderland Wedding in Charleston

kklein — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 16:44:41 +0000

- PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH EXPLORE CHARLESTON -

A Charleston area winter wedding is the perfect blend of historic beauty and refined Southern style. Set against historic architecture and lush seasonal greenery, this winter soirée blended timeless elegance with thoughtful, personal details in the heart of the Holy City

The bride wore a classic gown with a full skirt and dramatic veil, perfectly suited for Charleston's iron gates and pale historic walls. Bridesmaids in rich Charleston green gowns added depth and a subtle nod to the city itself, creating a refined winter palette alongside soft white florals and candlelight. The couple's beloved dog made a special appearance during portraits, adding a heartfelt, personal touch to the day. Inside, a glowing reception space came to life with white florals, elegant tablescapes, and warm candlelight, creating an intimate and inviting atmosphere.

As the evening came to a close, the couple made their exit beneath a flurry of faux snow — an unexpected and magical moment that transformed the Charleston night into a winter dream. A perfect ending to a celebration that captured the romance, charm, and quiet magic of a winter wedding in the Holy City. Keep scrolling for all the enchanting details.

Vendor Credits:

Planner: Loluma
Photographer: Anne Rhett Photography
Catering: Salthouse
Rentals: Snyder Events
Cake: Publix
Wedding Dress: Maddison Row South
Florist: Loluma
Ceremony Venue: St. Philips Church
Reception Venue: Hibernian Hall
Reception Dress: Gown Boutique of Charleston
Groom's/Groomsmen Attire: Berlin’s n
Hair and Makeup: True Beauty by Joanna Marie
Stationery: Phoenix Printing
Band: Crystal Clear Band with Sam Hill Entertainment
Videography: Whale Tale Weddings
Transportation: Lowcountry Valet
Exit Car: Whipdash

Sneak Peek Inside the Spring 2026 Issue

kklein — Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:12:20 +0000

No, your eyes aren’t deceiving you — this is the brand-new BG: Bridal Guide, and I’m thrilled to be the first to welcome you.

About a year ago, the opportunity to bring this legacy brand into our portfolio of lifestyle titles arose. And to be honest, I hesitated. Bridal Guide has been around since 1988 and has become a trusted voice not only for brides and couples, but also for the wedding industry as a whole. Plus — full disclosure — I’ve never planned a wedding, helped a friend choose a gown, or even shopped for an engagement ring. What could I possibly bring to the table?

But as we dug deeper into the category, I had a lightbulb moment. Weddings have evolved dramatically in nearly 40 years. Today's couples have new priorities: registries that focus less on filling a home with "stuff" and more on funding adventures abroad; formalities replaced by personal, bespoke traditions; and fashion that embraces new hues, new silhouettes, and even — gasp — grooms skipping socks with their patent leather shoes. Who would have thought diamonds could be “lab” grown? We also discovered a community of extraordinary talent behind the scenes: Michelin-worthy chefs creating dreamy, sometimes vegan wedding cakes; floral artists crafting whimsical landscapes with sustainability in mind; designers sketching fantastical gowns and bringing them to life; and mixologists perfecting that first unforgettable sip of a signature cocktail.

The new BG: Bridal Guide is a celebration of your special day — and of the entire industry that brings it to life. Cheers to you, cheers to the creators who make it magical, and cheers to a whole new BG: Bridal Guide.

Yours,
Danny Seo

Here, get a first look at some of the wedding ideas and inspiration you'll find inside the pages of our Spring 2026 issue.

Whether your home style is traditional, modern, or eclectic, you'll find fresh inspiration here for your wedding registry.

Timeless wedding gowns filled the runways at NY Bridal Fashion Week. Browse some of our favorite finds:

Get your best-ever skin by your wedding day! We asked a dermatologist, a plastic surgeon, and an aesthician to each provide their month-by-month game plans.

Dreaming of your perfect honeymoon location? Find out why Vienna deserves a spot on your list:

The hottest sparklers couples are choosing today: lab-grown diamonds. Here's what you need to know about these sustainable rocks:

And so much more. Grab your Spring 2026 edition of Bridal Guide on newsstands starting January 13!

Real Wedding Beyond the Blue: Courtney & Matthew at Sandals Emerald Bay

kklein — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 18:29:17 +0000

For Matt and Courtney, the person they were meant to be with was, quite literally, in front of them from the very beginning. Growing up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the two walked the halls of the same high school and knew of one another, but their lives never had a reason to intertwine.

It wasn’t until one Thanksgiving break, away from the stress of college finals that Matt and his friends ended up at the same local bar as Courtney. As a steady stream of high school friends poured in, Matt and Courtney navigated through a sea of familiar faces until gravity — fate, if you will — won out. After hours of laughter, the two realized they hadn't parted ways the entire night! Matt asked Courtney out shortly after, marking the start of their relationship. Looking back now, they still wonder why their paths hadn’t crossed before.

"We realized our childhood homes were just minutes away from each other, and we even stood next to each other in our fifth-grade concert performance!" recalled Courtney. As fate would have it, the friendship-turned-romance unfolded with ease, and Matt and Courtney vowed yes to forever in Great Exuma, The Bahamas.

When dreaming up their ideal wedding destination, they wanted the location to be full of breathtaking scenery and offer a laid-back vibe that made their guests feel at home. With its pops of emerald foliage and contrasting ocean blues, Matt and Courtney knew that Sandals Emerald Bay was the perfect fit.

Surrounded by 50 family members and friends, Matt and Courtney created a full schedule of welcome activities and island exploration. To kick off the trip, Courtney treated her mom, Maid of Honor and future mother-in-law to a morning of Caribbean-inspired spa treatments and tropical cocktails, while the guys teed up at the Greg Norman-designed golf course for some friendly competition.

The following evening called for a tropical-themed rehearsal dinner complete with local fare to immerse guests in the island lifestyle. Woven bark vases, filled with birds-of-paradise, ginger lilies and pink King Protea, set the scene as guests sipped on drinks blended with citrus-infused vodka and Appleton® Estate Rum.

Waking up to bright sunlight, a gentle Caribbean breeze and her real-life fairytale the morning of, Courtney slipped into her dress before sharing a heartfelt first look with her father. It was a memorable moment for both as they celebrated the close bond they've always shared. To get to the ceremony, guests rode golf carts across the resort to the breathtaking, championship golf course. Upon arrival, there was no denying that a bit of magic was definitely stirring in the air.

"Prior to walking down the aisle, we had the opportunity to scope out which hole we wanted to say 'I do' on," explained Courtney. "We all came to the conclusion that the fourteenth hole was our favorite, which was fate for me!"

Being her father's retired National Hockey League number, lucky 14 has never wavered in their household. As soon as they saw the sweeping ocean views and expansive green space, there was no question that Courtney and Matt would be married on the fourteenth fairway.

As the sun slipped away into the ocean, the sounds of the island began to emerge. For their reception, Matt and Courtney wanted to be as close to the ocean as possible. After hearing their saltwater vision, their Sandals Wedding Planner had a clear-top tent, illuminated by paper lanterns and string lights, assembled right on the sand. The happy couple opted for a barefoot dress code to complement the natural scenery. Blooms of ivory phalaenopsis orchids and baby pink roses made up the floral arrangements, which played well against the emerging golden hour.

Eventually, dusk faded away and the stars emerged to reveal a dreamy scene. The crowd whistled and clinked champagne flutes, while the newlyweds shared their first dance to “Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton. From the breathtaking scenery to every moment of laughter shared, Matt and Courtney look back on their destination wedding weekend as a dream come true.

"I remember sitting at the reception, looking around at the amazing location, my husband, friends and family," explained Courtney, reflecting on her favorite memory. "I dug my feet into the sand and really took a moment to take it all in."

Plan Your Wedding in Jamaica

kklein — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 16:06:48 +0000

Jamaica is a warm, inviting tropical destination, so of course, love comes naturally in Jamaica. With so many white-sand beaches, exotic gardens, romantic rivers and waterfalls, hearts tend to say "I do" before ever hearing the question. It's why so many couples come to tie the knot, spend their honeymoons, and renew their vows year after year — Jamaica holds a special place in your love story when you've experienced it together.

For the love of romance, start planning your big event at visitjamaica.com/romantic and make Jamaica the second-best decision you ever made.

Real Wedding: Countdown to the New Year in the City that Never Sleeps

kklein — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 21:10:19 +0000

A true New York City romance, Alyssa and Matt kept crossing paths until fate seated them side by side at their first post-grad jobs. Their easy friendship buillt upon late-night city adventures and shared jokes evolved into a deeper connection. When the world paused in 2020, they stayed in the city they loved and the place they met. It was during those quiet New York days that they fell in love.

When it came time to plan their wedding, they knew it had to be in New York City, and it had to be on New Year's Eve. The couple chose Tribeca 360° for their city affair, setting the scene with sweeping skyline views, glimmering lights, and the unmistakable energy Manhattan delivers. A countdown to the new year in the city that never sleeps was the perfect ending to their celebration.

Vendors:

Photographer: Ok Crowe, @okcrowe
Venue: Tribeca 360, @tribecarooftopand360
Florals: Sahola Flowers, @saholaflowers
Band: INtense Events & Entertainment, @intensedjs
Beauty: Bisou Beauty Team, @bisoubeautyteam
Cake: Audrey's Fine Baked Goods

Real Wedding at Sandals Dunn's River Resort: Kayla & Brandon

kklein — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:22:37 +0000

- IN PARTNERSHIP WITH SANDALS RESORTS -

For Kayla and Brandon, their love story began during college and continued to flourish over the course of nine incredible years.

Kayla and Brandon’s paths intertwined during Kayla’s freshman year and Brandon’s senior year of college. The connection was undeniable. After college, Brandon would drive 120 miles just to spend a few precious hours with Kayla. It was during these visits that Kayla knew she had found her forever partner.

Finally, the time had come to embark on a new chapter of their lives together with an intimate destination wedding. They decided to take that step on the breathtaking island of Jamaica, while entrusting the team at Sandals Resorts to make the details of their dream wedding a reality.

"We were told the wedding planners at Sandals thrive on bringing dreams to life," Kayla says, "so we went online and saw pictures of the new Sandals Dunn’s River Resort. That was it. We knew this was exactly where we wanted to be married."

The wedding ceremony was a breathtaking celebration held on the sandy shores of Sandals Dunn's River. An A-frame arbor adorned with beautiful local plants and flowers in yellow, pink, and orange hues created a threshold for the couple to stroll toward an endless view of the Caribbean Sea. "We scheduled the wedding for twilight," Kayla says. "It's the ideal time with the sun setting, the perfect breeze, and the day's last gentle waves rolling in the background."

The reception mirrored the ceremony’s beauty and theme, with one long table nestled amidst palm trees as the late rays of sun painted the horizon. Wicker lanterns hung above the reception table, giving off an enchanting glow while complementing the tropical floral arrangements. Natural materials such as rattan chargers and a neutral-colored linen tablecloth were united with contemporary white plates, gold flatware, white candles, and low-set, brightly colored centerpieces.

Before their ceremony, Kayla and Brandon exchanged heartfelt letters, a touching gesture that brought tears of joy. The wedding team at Sandals suggested a local tradition — the pouring of unity sand. It became one of the most cherished moments of the entire week. "We combined our personal sands to symbolize becoming one," Kayla says. "And now we have the combined sand on display as a keepsake in our home, so we can remember the moment and the beautiful Caribbean destination every day."

After the ceremony, the couple celebrated with their family in an intimate reception, sharing their first dance to Stephen Sanchez' "Until I Found You," and then cutting the wedding cake created by the Sandals culinary team. After the cake cutting, the group sat down to a special four-course dinner, serenaded by the talented guitarist and musician, Moses Beckford.

Kayla and Brandon find it challenging to choose a single favorite moment from so many extraordinary moments. From their arrival at the resort to the live entertainment after the ceremony, every instant holds its own place in their hearts. When pressed a bit, they admit their most cherished moment was being on the beach, surrounded by loved ones, as they exchanged vows and became husband and wife.

As they continue to reflect on their unforgettable experience, the couple has this bit of advice to share: "After everything we experienced, we wouldn't trust anyone else for the most important day of our lives. When we say they’re amazing, we mean it. The planners. The photographer and videographer. They all made our wedding stress-free so we could fully enjoy it." And isn’t that what dreams are meant to be?

Following the departure of their family, Kayla and Brandon extended their stay at Sandals Dunn’s River. "When we saw the pictures, we instantly knew that's where we wanted to go. It was a 'this was meant to be' moment for us."

With all-inclusive packages that extend to the neighboring property, Sandals Ochi, couples can enjoy 28 restaurants, 22 whirlpools, 13 different pools, and 20 bars — all with round-trip transportation included. Unwinding from a wedding couldn’t be more relaxing, or more fun.

Kayla and Brandon’s destination wedding at Sandals Dunn’s River was a testament to their enduring love. With the support and expertise of Sandals Resorts' wedding planning team, their dream became a breathtaking reality. Ensconced by the stunning Jamaican landscape, their intimate event will always reflect their love and commitment to each other.

A Quintessential Charleston Wedding: Rachael and Michael's Downtown "I Do"

kklein — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 17:29:53 +0000

- PRESENTED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH EXPLORE CHARLESTON -

Rachael and Michael's wedding was everything you'd expect from a classic Charleston celebration — classic, beautiful, and full of personality. With the Mills House and Hibernian Hall as their venues, they didn’t just get married in Charleston – they leaned into what makes this place feel special.

Engaging Events handled the planning and design for this stunning celebration. The whole day felt smooth and intentional, but never overdone. The ceremony at the Mills House had a quiet charm to it. The space didn't need much — just a few thoughtful touches to make it feel personal. The ceremony was followed by cocktail hour on the downstairs patio. Guests were greeted with refreshing cocktails, fresh seafood, and all of their family and friends.

After the ceremony and cocktail hour, guests headed next door to Hibernian Hall for the reception. It's a space that's been part of Charleston's story for a long time, and it brought a sense of history without feeling outdated. The design was clean and classic– the soft florals, warm lighting, and spacious layout encouraged people to connect over what brought them here together – love.

This wedding didn't rely on trends or big moments to make an impression. It was about the atmosphere, the people, and the way everything came together naturally. Charleston has a way of making things feel easy and meaningful at the same time, and this day was a perfect example of that.

Rachael and Michael's "I do" wasn’t just a ceremony — it was a celebration of place, of community, and of keeping things simple in the best way. That's what made it quintessentially Charleston. Keep scrolling for all the Engaging Events details.

Vendor Credits:

Planning and Design: Engaging Events | Venue: The Mills House and Hibernian Hall | Photography: Chloe Luka Photography: chloelukaphotography.com | Cake: Jim Smeal | Stationary: Dodeline | Catering: Mills House Catering | Rentals: EventWorks, Plants Alive, Reverie Linens, Stradley Davidson Linens, The Total Table Linens | Transportation: Charleston Rickshaw | Entertainment: The Band Punch, Palmetto Strings | Hair and Makeup: Lashes and Lace

Sandals and Beaches Resorts Introduce "Nature's Vow" Eco-Chic Inspiration

kklein — Mon, 06 Oct 2025 16:01:21 +0000

Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts are known for their impeccable destination weddings, where every detail of each package is carefully curated. Their latest wedding inspiration isn't just about celebrating beauty — it's sustainable and eco-conscious, paying homage to the Caribbean's lush landscapes while also protecting the natural elements.

Nature's Vow embraces earthy tones, natural textures, and locally-inspired elements. From greenery-filled arches to organic bamboo accents, eco-forward florals, and potted plants that can be repurposed for future celebrations, every detail is carefully designed to reflect the island's beauty in a sustainable way.

"With Nature's Vow, we're not only giving couples a stunning new design inspiration, but also a way to celebrate responsibly — in harmony with the islands we call home," said Marsha-Ann Donaldson, Director of Weddings and Romance at Sandals Resorts. "Our guests are increasingly seeking meaning behind every moment of their celebration, and Nature's Vow delivers just that."

Get inspired by these gorgeous photos:

Nature's Vow builds upon Sandals' commitment to sustainablility through the non-profit Sandals Foundation, which offers couples and their families the chance to positively impact the destinations they love through eco-conscious initiatives:

Symbolic Tree Planting Ceremonies in Jamaica and Turks & Caicos; funds for this activity ($100) go directly towards the Sandals Foundation’s tree planting fund, adding shade trees that nurture the island's biodiversity, strengthen climate resilience, and support the beauty of the Caribbean's enchanting ecosystems.
Caribbean Artisan Collection, featuring handcrafted keepsakes from local makers that can be included in guest welcome bags or turndown surprises, supporting regional livelihoods and culture.
Wedding Garment Donations, giving new life to gowns, tuxedos, and bridesmaids’ dresses through local charities, with proceeds benefiting food programs and shelters for women and children.
Repurposing Leftovers from receptions into organic fertilizer that nourishes resort gardens and supports local farms.
Nature-Based Tours with Island Routes, allowing wedding parties to bond over eco-adventures like turtle releases or cycling through lush landscapes.

Real Wedding at Sandals Grande Saint Lucian: Katelyn & Shane

kklein — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 15:00:18 +0000

- IN PARTNERSHIP WITH SANDALS RESORTS -

Saint Lucia, a country so beautiful it's been referred to as the The Helen of the West, has it all: lush mountains, ocean views, impeccable weather. Dreaming of nuptials that would incorporate all their favorite landscapes, this couple found Sandals Grande Saint Lucian on Rodney Bay to be a perfect fit.

Moving from Florida to Texas and back again while dating. An epic proposal atop the Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska. A dream destination wedding on the vibrant isle of Saint Lucia. As a couple well-versed in travel, Katelyn and Shane had a clear vision for their destination vows — and they found the ideal resort to make it happen.

When Katelyn and Shane began their search, the goal was to keep the wedding small and intimate. They wanted a place that was budget-friendly, close in proximity to the United States, and felt like a vacation with a wedding mixed in. Naturally, an all-inclusive made the most sense. As residents of Florida, the couple also wanted more than a beachfront backdrop, and Katelyn, who is a New Hampshire native, wanted to incorporate the rise and fall of the mountains. When they finally found Sandals Resorts in Saint Lucia, it was exactly what they were looking for. Friends and family had a chance to enjoy the resort at their own pace, without needing an itinerary. The staff welcomed everyone like a part of the Sandals family. Food, drinks, and activities were unlimited. Most important of all, the couple’s incredible wedding planner effortlessly executed all the details, giving Katelyn and Shane plenty of time to relax and explore the island.

"Saint Lucia is such a beautiful island," says Katelyn. "We hiked Pigeon Island, went on a mud bath and waterfall excursion, took a sunset catamaran cruise, and went scuba diving the day after our wedding."

After capturing solo shots together, Katelyn and Shane made their way back to the resort's Overwater Wedding Serenity Chapel for the ceremony. "We fell in love with the Overwater Chapel," recalls the couple. "The beautiful scenery and architecture allowed for simple décor."

A glass-panel aisle, lined by white chairs and simple floral arrangements, led to the front of the chapel where two glass vases framed the couple. White drapery fluttered in the breeze along the roofline, adding a softness that didn’t take away from the natural scenery. Eucalyptus leaves, white roses, hydrangeas, and other touches of greenery made up the floral aesthetic for the day.

Surrounded by unobscured views and 27 close friends and family members, Katelyn and Shane couldn't have dreamt a better time or place to exchange vows.

After the ceremony, Katelyn and Shane decided to keep things simple with an extended cocktail hour. The two worked alongside their wedding planner to choose a variety of light hors d’oeuvres followed by a cocktail menu. Mini sliders, Mac and cheese bites and conch fritters (a fan favorite of the evening) were notable flavors from the evening. As for signature cocktails, the pair chose a Spicy Watermelon Margarita — a refreshing combo with a bit of heat as a nod to Shane’s favorite type of food.

The wedding cake, adorned in succulents, teal florals, and verdant leaves, was a final touch on the perfect celebration — and a cohesive continuation of the ceremony look. In place of a traditional reception, the couple surprised guests with local fire dancers. A dynamic and dazzling 45-minute spectacle, the performance gave everyone a front-row view of the action and had the group up on its feet for a limbo dance. To close out the evening, Katelyn and Shane relocated to the resort pool with their guests for added quality time and to recap the day’s events over drinks. "Our favorite moment was having our friends and family all together with us,” says the couple when looking back on what made the weekend unforgettable. “Everyone who was there was a friend from the beginning of our relationship or from before. They were all our longest friendships. We had all our favorite people there."

Real Wedding: Gloria & Collin's Romantic Escape in Tuscany

kklein — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:33:37 +0000

-AS SEEN IN BRIDAL GUIDE MAGAZINE-

A few years after meeting on a dating app during their last semester of college found Gloria and Collin Purcell on vacation in French Polynesia. Having just arrived at their overwater bungalow in Tahiti, Gloria suggested a quick dip in the water to jump-start their holiday, and was surprised (and a tad suspicious) when Collin declined, saying he’d prefer toget dressed up and explore the resort. Gloria went along with Collin's plan, and as she was getting ready, heard a knock on the door. It was a member of the staff asking if it was a good time to set up for a private dinner on their deck. A moment later, a photographer appeared, Collin went down on one knee and proposed.

Fast-forward two years to a glorious celebration at Castello di Celsa in the heart of Tuscany. A charming save-the-date video was sent out to guests, setting the stage for the joy-filled celebration to come. Why Italy? Gloria and Collin had traveled there multiple times, and wanted to share their deep love for the country with family and friends. (They also hosted 23 members of the wedding party and family in the castle over the wedding weekend.)

A welcome party on a covered patio kicked off the festivities. Originally envisioned to be held outside, a Plan B took effect when a storm rolled in and the event team, led by First Pick’s Jen Bergmark, made a quick pivot, moving both the party and the long serpentine dining table to a covered-but-still-outdoors area. Spirited folk-dancing and tambourine-playing ensued, fueled by a bounty of pasta and wine. The sun reappeared on the big day, the better to fully enjoy the garden wedding, bedecked in white flowers and lush greens and set against the Tuscan hills. Hints of red and other autumnal shades found their way into the reception decor, while colorful tableware—and exquisite food—imparted a traditional Italian vibe. Says the couple: “Intimate, romantic, and effortlessly stunning, our wedding was perfectly us and a weekend we will never forget.”

Vendors

Planning: Jen Bergmark @firstpick
Photography: @pearcebrennanweddings
Venue: Castello di Celsa @castellodicelsa
Floral Design: @barefootfloral
Catering, Cake: @guidilencicatering
Musicians & DJ: @oneorchestra.group @oneorchestra.italy
Rentals: @preludiodivisionenoleggio
Textiles: @allegoria_textiles
Lighting & Power: @kaleydo.official
Wedding Stylist: Bride @gloriaaaaaaaa
Bride's Dress: @serenebymadilane
Makeup & Hair: @make_up_irasiz
Lawn Games: @weddinggamestuscany
Content Creator: @littlenostalgicmoments