brown paper packages....

Isn't it amazing how pretty packaging can make any treat even sweeter?  Cassidy of Cassidy Brooke Photography is an incredibly talented wedding (and lifestyle!) photographer based in Colorado Springs and Chicago.  She creates beautiful film photography filled with light and she doesn't stop there.  Cassidy's love for all things pretty means that even the photo boxes she sends to her couples include gorgeous details.

Take a peek!

pretty baubles

Do you love anything delicate, gorgeous, and gold?  We know we do!  Jewelry is so pretty, it's a shame to hide it in a box.  When I found this beautiful bauble box from Anthropologie, I was inspired to rethink the top of my dresser.

Even though spring is known for cleaning, I also catch the bug with the coming of fall.  Maybe it's because once it starts getting chilly we'll be stuck indoors a lot more--who wants to spend everyday surrounded by a cluttered mess?  In honor of getting organized, I have found a way to both store my favorite jewelry pieces and put them on display!  How do you keep track of your trinkets?

mountain ranch wedding

This wedding was all about the love for living in Colorado!   Because many  loved ones were coming from out of state to help celebrate the day, the focus was to share the beauty that we are lucky enough to be surrounded by on a daily basis. The feel  for the day was natural and rustic, with some fun vintage touches.  The beautiful Spruce Mountain Ranch, with the sweeping views and breathtaking lodge, was undoubtedly the perfect spot!

It was so important that the day really represented both the bride and groom--personalities, histories, and families.   For the ceremony, the Ringbearer's pillow was made by the Oma (grandmother) of the bride and embroidered with Edelweiss flowers, to represent her German heritage and her cousin sang an Italian love song (in Italian!) in honor of the groom's Italian heritage.  The groom's brother officiated and the vows were written by the bride and groom themselves,  making  that moment so special and completely them.

For the reception, the centerpieces were comprised of a variety of antiques, many from our inventory at Long Ago Love Events, but also some which were borrowed from both families.  They included my the bride's father's bronzed baby shoes, pictures from groom's grandparents' wedding day, and a grandpa's tin lunchbox.  We also did quite a few DIY projects which included programs, favors, signage, and décor.  The dessert bar we put together was made up of all the bride and groom's favorite treats from growing up--parents, grandparents, and family friends all contributed!

Photos by Cassidy Brooke Photography

rehearsal excitement!

Though they can have a reputation for being rather arduous, we had so much fun at our wedding rehearsal--family and friends are arriving in town, everything is falling into place, and Kyle and I were just filled with love and excitement!  One more day!

venue spotlight: The Augustine Grill

                    

Finding the perfect venue for your special day is not the only location you need to think about as you are sorting through your wedding details--depending on your vision you may also need a beautiful gathering place for celebratory occasions such as an engagement party, bridal shower, or rehearsal meal (we know dinner is the favorite, but we are over the moon about the trend of hosting a gorgeous rehearsal brunch--mimosas, anyone?).

The Augustine Grill Restaurant, located along Main Street in Castle Rock, Colorado is located just minutes from some the the Front Range's most breathtaking wedding venues, including Crooked Willow Farm, Spruce Mountain Ranch, Highlands Ranch Mansion, and Castle Cliff Estate.  This warm Victorian home, built in 1902, welcomes guests with some truly scrumptious food options.  For a brunch event, you can enjoy many mouthwatering options, ranging from gourmet chicken salad croissants and fruit boards to rustic quiche or finger-sized grilled cheese with tomato bisque--mmmm!  Host your guests in The Augustine Grill's picturesque garden patio and you'll have celebration they won't forget anytime soon.

Enjoy a glimpse of The Augustine Grill below!



Images via: The Augustine Grill

wedding prep sneak peak!

So many details go into a wedding--from finding vendors, to nailing down style and determining what to DIY for a personal touch.  Phew! Have you ever taken on a big DIY project?  How did you make it manageable?

Thank you to my very patient fiance, my crafty mama-in-law and awesome wedding party for helping with the DIYs below!

hello from the patio!

Happy Memorial Day!  I hope you and yours have the chance to honor your loved ones and those who have served our country.  I also hope you are enjoying some sunshine and good company.

Cheers from our Memorial Day barbecue!  :-)