VENDOR FAVORITES
Wedding & Event Planner
The Lion House, Lauren Watson
One of the biggest blessings for my wedding has been having Lauren Watson of The Lion House by my side. As a North Carolina native, it feels as if she has connections to everyone in town. That, combined with her many years spent in California, gives her a classic-cool edge that is strides ahead of the local competition. From event design to coordination, Lauren does it all – not to mention she is just about the sweetest girl ever! Read more about The Lion House here, and check out Lauren on Instagram to see more of her fabulous events.
Wedding Dress & Accessories
Gilded Bridal
After a couple of unsuccessful wedding dress shopping experiences, I can honestly say that Gilded Bridal is by far the best shop in the Raleigh area. From my initial conversation with them on the phone, to being greeted warmly upon arrival, and their wide range of styles and designers, I can’t say enough good things. The experience was so personal and every employee I meet was so genuinely kind. The fitting rooms were my favorite part – each has a waiting area for friends and family, and you definitely can’t beat the decor! I’m already looking forward to going back to pick up my wedding dress.
Engagement Ring
Heidi Gibson
One of my most asked questions has always been about my engagement ring. It is a custom design from Heidi Gibson, an engagement ring designer in L.A. You can read here about how she worked with Ryan to create a custom ring of my dreams – something art deco and vintage inspired. Mine is actually called “The Gatsby”. I love her ability to mix and match different center stones and metals to create a piece that is truly one of a kind and so representative of your love. For obvious reasons, this is the most special piece in my jewelry box, and I still have to pinch myself when I see it on my hand every day.
Wedding Photographer
Autumn Harrison Photography
We are so excited to have Autumn as the newest addition to our wedding day team. Apart from her seriously gorgeous photos (see her on Instagram here), she also radiates so much passion for what she does. Before taking Ryan & I on as clients, she took the time to get to know us as a couple and ensure we would all be a good fit. Her style and ability to capture creative and candid shots is exactly what we were searching for in a photographer and we couldn’t be happier. I can’t wait to share photos from our engagement session soon… stay tuned!
Wedding Videography
The Quail & The Dove
When Ryan & I started looking for a videographer, we were discouraged that we weren’t able to find the type of cinematic film we were looking for. After seeing one of Jim & Melissa’s films, we were instantly captivated by their ability to capture the smallest moments and turn them into a gorgeous video. I think we watched all of their previous videos in one sitting! A couple of skype calls later, we were booked with The Quail & The Dove. They have been so easy and laid back to work with so far and we can’t wait to see what they come up with for our wedding!
THE SHOP
STYLE ME PRETTY ARTICLES
4 Benefits of A Longer Engagement
Hi SMP readers! I’m Marianne, the blogger and bride-to-be behind the style and beauty blog, The M. A. Times. My fiancé, Ryan, and I got engaged in November of 2016 in the Tuileries Garden in Paris, France. That day was an absolute fairy tale! I met Ryan a little over five years ago, and realized very quickly I wanted him to be my forever. We took our sweet time dating, soaking up every second, until the moment that every girl dreams of happened that morning in Paris November 2, 2016… [continue reading]
6 Proposal Tips from A Real Groom
Proposal season is upon us, so if you think an engagement is in your near future…consider not-so-subtly forwarding this article to your man. It’s an epic Jardin des Tuileries proposal with tips from Ryan, the most romantic groom-to-be you’ll ever meet. He surprised his love, Marianne of The M.A. Times with a moment she’ll always remember and we’re thrilled to officially kick off this wedding journey with them… [continue reading]