I've been engaged for the past year to my incredible fiance and it's been an interesting journey with many lessons learned, one of which I wasn't expecting--I'm not great at being a bride. I love throwing parties, hosting events and putting together our conferences, I'm not great at sitting opening gifts and playing the role of the blushing bride-to-be. Don't get me wrong I am so excited about getting married but I know one thing -- I'm better at being the boss than being the bride.
However, going through all the traditions - my bachelorette and now my bridal party -- I've really enjoyed spending time with the amazing women in my life; hearing their stories of marriage, kids, career especially spanning generations. When we started planning the bridal shower, I told my sister I really wanted to work with all female-owned businesses and vendors -- this is something I have made a priority over the past several years, and it's been awesome getting to know so many incredibly talented women.
For my dress, I teamed up with Megan, owner of Lighthouse Bridal and letterpress design in Fort Lauderdale (we met via her email to C&C!). Her selection was incredible featuring brands such as Daughters of Simone and Alexandra Grecco. We landed on me wearing the Farrah from Stone Fox Bride. For all the South Florida brides this is a must stop.
We also worked with Rockstar Catering owned by Rachel Pintarelli, a total boss babe, to come up with a super fun menu. The food and mimosa station was adorned with calligraphy menu's by Natalia from Papel & Co. The lush and bright florals ran across the entire table were orchestrated by Beth from Southern Floral Company and we had incredible succulents courtesy of Shop Succulent owned by Jessica De Gennaro .
The bridal gift boxes filled with customized treats were from the owner and creator of Chic Sweets, Natalie Clamp. The styling and set up came together with the help Lauren Stewart of Urban Vintage. Guests sat family style at the handmade farm tables by Pat Ryan Designs, adorned with chairs and vintage rentals from husband and wife duo at True Love Decor. The boho antique screen served as a backdrop for opening gifts and was created by the talented Kathy Peterson Inspired.
Want more? The ladies at One Hundred Layer Cake have even more images and details about the tips and tricks that went into the event.