http://79.170.44.112/stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php Publish an article to the website en sara@stylemedowntheaisle.com Copyright 2010 2010-10-03T08:30:31+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/interview_with_top_wedding_photographer_damian_bailey http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/interview_with_top_wedding_photographer_damian_bailey#When:08:30:31Z Hello and sorry for the lack of content recently. Pregnancy and the demands of a 60hr-a-week day job have been taking their toll! But I'm delighted to welcome Damian Bailey to SMDTA. Damian is a past winner of the Wedding Photographer of the Year award and also did the most amazing job with my own wedding! His beautiful work is dotted around the site and you can see his images of our wedding here and here. I thought it would be a lot of fun to have Damian share some thoughts on this site. In the run up to our wedding and on the day itself, he was so much more than a photographer. He was endlessly practical, put us at ease, bantered with everyone and was such an asset to the day beyond the beautiful memories he created for us. His background in event management means his brides get to benefit from his tips and tricks of the trade. And hopefully my readers can benefit too! Enjoy! Ambience, 2010-10-03T08:30:31+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/south_african_wedding_with_a_pink_cadillac http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/south_african_wedding_with_a_pink_cadillac#When:19:57:57Z I'm very pleased to be welcoming the lovely and very talented Christine Meintjes to SMDTA and to be featuring another of her absolutely stunning South African weddings. Today we have Alet & Nick's big day, in the gorgeous Stellenbosch, where I will be holidaying in approx 3 months time. Woo hoo!! I love this wedding, but the highlight has to be the incredible car! I have called it a Cadillac in the title but to be honest, having absolutely no clue about cars, I'm not sure that is necessarily correct! In any case, it makes a fantabulous centrepiece for a beautiful, beautiful wedding. Thanks to Christine and to Alet and Nick for the gorgeous images! Destinations, 2010-08-26T19:57:57+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/mandarin_wedding_part_ii_the_people http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/mandarin_wedding_part_ii_the_people#When:07:42:26Z Apologies for the delay in posting Part II of this wonderful wedding, but hopefully it's worth the wait. Not just because the beautiful bride from Part I has given me the green light to show off Aneta Mak's gorgeous people-shots, but because there are a couple of surprise celeb shots - firstly me and my gorgeous hubby (less exciting) and secondly JON BON JOVI. Yes, I kid you not!!!!! Could there be a cooler person to rock up for a wedding pic? Scroll down for Jon in the flesh (mmm) and a little bit of colour on how he stopped by ... City, 2010-08-19T07:42:26+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/quintessentially_london_wedding_at_the_mandarin_oriental http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/quintessentially_london_wedding_at_the_mandarin_oriental#When:20:41:40Z I am thrilled to feature this wedding for a couple of reasons. First, it is the wedding of some very dear friends of ours, and we had an absolute ball of a day. Sadly I can't give away the couple's identity but hopefully there is more than enough eye candy below to make up for that! It was a fabulous, classy, stylish London wedding which kicked off with a beautiful ceremony at the stunning St Paul's of Knightsbridge, after which we strolled through the June sunshine to the Mandarin - such a treat particularly given we got to enjoy a reception on the terrace with its amazing views of Hyde Park. Secondly, it's an opportunity to feature a wedding shot by Aneta Mak, whose work I have previously featured here. I just love Aneta's romantic style and I was utterly wowed by her footage of our friends' wedding and how gorgeously she captured the spirit of London! 2010-08-11T20:41:40+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/by_appointment_only_design_surpasses_itself_in_vallery http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/by_appointment_only_design_surpasses_itself_in_vallery#When:18:48:33Z I know my friends over at By Appointment Only Design are talented, ridiculously so. Nevertheless, when I saw this wedding in Vallery in Burgundy, my jaw hit the floor. It is insane! I love that there were so many perfectly styled tableaux, ranging from the bowls of fruit in French paysan style, to the contemporary look the use of perspex gives, to the opulence of the dining room and the romantic flowers trailing from the door frame. Love every single detail. Thank you Javier and Tony for sharing! Decors, flowers, 2010-08-09T18:48:33+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/clean_modern_details_in_heavenly_franschhoek http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/clean_modern_details_in_heavenly_franschhoek#When:05:37:33Z Anyone who has been to Franschhoek will know that I am not exaggerating when I say that it's one of the most heavenly places in the world. Add to this the fact that Anna and Dirk married at the stunning La Grande Provence wine estate, and the recipe is looking good. The icing on the cake is Christine Meintje's gorgeous, dreamy photography. I have been looking forward to featuring Christine's work for some time now and I am very pleased to say that I'll be featuring more of her weddings in the coming weeks! Enjoy ... Contemporary, Destinations, 2010-08-06T05:37:33+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/two_fabulous_offers_from_the_state_of_grace http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/two_fabulous_offers_from_the_state_of_grace#When:20:17:28Z You may remember from this article that I am a huge fan of The State of Grace. So today I am very happy to share with you two fantastic August offers from Lucia and team, on both their bespoke clothing range and on their incredible riad in Marrakech, Dar Jaguar. Enjoy!! Firstly, The State of Grace is hosting its first ever sale on its made-to-order range on the 12th-14th August, from 10am-7pm at their private studio in Notting Hill. Try on samples of their 'Give me Grace' range and then choose the colour and fabric that you want. Check out their website for endless ideas. 2010-08-03T20:17:28+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/my_interview_on_chelsea_from_beyond http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/my_interview_on_chelsea_from_beyond#When:18:17:33Z Hello! I am back from a 2 week holiday, most of it spent in rural Puglia with very little in the way of connectivity. I hope you've had a good July, and thank you for stopping by! To kick things off this week I thought I'd post a link to Chelsea from Beyond, the lovely blog of Chelsea Bidwill from Beyond Weddings, the interior design gift list service. I featured an interview with Chelsea a while back, which you can read here. Anyway, Chelsea was kind enough to ask me to answer a few questions for her blog, and you can read the full entry here. 2010-08-01T18:17:33+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/style_me_down_the_aisle_is_on_holiday http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/style_me_down_the_aisle_is_on_holiday#When:11:37:19Z Thank you for stopping by. Style Me Down The Aisle is having a break for the last 2 weeks of July. I look forward to seeing you again in August! 2010-07-17T11:37:19+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/stunning_vintage_seaside_wedding_in_suffolk http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/stunning_vintage_seaside_wedding_in_suffolk#When:20:11:04Z Today's wedding is truly magical and I am thrilled to feature it. Kate and Piers’ stunning coastal wedding was photographed by London and Suffolk based wedding photographer Anna McCarthy back in February this year, on an incredibly crisp sunny day. It makes me smile just to look at the picture-perfect beach, the old-worldly prom, the icecream-coloured beach huts, the fabulous vintage gear, the huge smiles on Kate and Piers' faces, and of course the gorgeous doggie! Kate tells the story much better than I can so please scroll down to read her lovely words and in particular her beautiful tribute to her late mother who tragically passed away just before the wedding. Kate, Piers and Anna - thank you so much for sharing. At the bottom is a full stockist list for all of Kate's vintage finds! Rustic, Vintage, 2010-07-14T20:11:04+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/very_london_engagement_shoot_by_jodie_chapman http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/very_london_engagement_shoot_by_jodie_chapman#When:19:06:14Z I am extremely happy to feature the beautiful, romantic work of Jodie Chapman for the first time on SMDTA today! Alice and Will live in Hong Kong but were savvy enough to secure Jodie's services for an engagement shoot while they were over in London in May. They'll be getting married in the UK later this month. They were keen to do a 'very London' shoot and so kicked off the proceedings in Covent Garden's Primrose Bakery before strolling through Trafalgar Square. The red buses and telephone boxes combined with the stunning architecture of Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery (as well as the obligatory pigeons) are classic London. Thank you Jodie for sharing! City, 2010-07-12T19:06:14+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/new_bridal_look_from_by_appointment_only_designs_vintage_candy http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/new_bridal_look_from_by_appointment_only_designs_vintage_candy#When:07:44:22Z Firstly, sorry this was not posted yesterday - technical glitch! Welcome back to the 2nd of our online exclusives of By Appointment Only Design's key bridal looks for the summer, beautifully styled and be-decked with blooms by Javier and Tony themselves, and captured by Stephen Gormley. The name of this look is "Vintage Candy", and the abundance of pastel florals, glass candlesticks, gold lace and exquisitely filigreed stationery creates an ambience of sheer indulgence and romance. I just love it. And I want those candlesticks! As yesterday, this shoot was styled against the stately backdrop of London's British Academy. Please scroll down for details of the suppliers behind these gorgeous details. Decors, flowers, 2010-07-09T07:44:22+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/new_bridal_look_from_by_appointment_only_designs_crisp_white http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/new_bridal_look_from_by_appointment_only_designs_crisp_white#When:06:12:14Z After my hugely enjoyable foray into edginess with the gorgeous Wapping Project Wedding this week, I am back on familiar territory with more utterly, utterly indulgent eye-candy from the dream team that is Javier and Tony from By Appointment Only Design. Below is the "Crisp White" bridal look that they put together as one of their key summer styles, at the majestic British Academy prior to its refurb to accommodate larger weddings. The gorgeous photos were taken by Stephen Gormley. As always, their jaw-dropping floral designs and beautifully coordinated details make for a look that is gloriously romantic but highly polished. Coming up tomorrow, their 2nd key look for summer brides, "Vintage Candy". You'll see these images featured across the bridal mags this summer but we have the full online exclusive here on SMDTA. So what do you think ... will you summer brides out there be taking inspiration from these gorgeous shoots?! Decors, flowers, stationary, 2010-07-07T06:12:14+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/beautiful_original_urban_wedding_at_the_wapping_project_ii http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/beautiful_original_urban_wedding_at_the_wapping_project_ii#When:06:08:57Z Welcome back to Part II of this magical, unconventional wedding at The Wapping Project. Michael and Candice opted for a high-drama backdrop but a very relaxed party, culminating in the trashing of the dress (scroll right down!!). I just love all the photos that Damian Bailey took of this couple; they look like they had an absolute blast! City, Contemporary, 2010-07-06T06:08:57+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/beautiful_original_urban_wedding_at_the_wapping_project http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/beautiful_original_urban_wedding_at_the_wapping_project#When:06:13:32Z "Edgy" is not a word many would use to describe me, and this blog tends to provide a clue to that ... I've noticed that a disproportionate amount of the weddings I feature end up under my "classic" category and that's not unintentional. However, today's wedding is a complete departure from my usual style and all the better for it. When Damian Bailey flagged these photos to me I went crazy for them. Michael and Candice's beautiful, imaginative wedding reception was staged at The Wapping Project, an incredible ex-hydraulic power station in Wapping, East London that now showcases up-and-coming artiststs. Not only that, but the wedding coincided with the most magical installation featuring a French picture show and a floor strewn with chalk rubble ... not your average ballroom wedding. There is so much more to show; please come back tomorrow for cracking details, one heck of a party and even a trash-the-dress session!! Thanks to Damian for such stunning, luminous photos and to Michael and Candice for providing us with a real breath of fresh air ... City, Contemporary, 2010-07-05T06:13:32+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/classic_style_at_goodwood_ii http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/classic_style_at_goodwood_ii#When:05:35:48Z Welcome back to this gorgeous English wedding at Goodwood, which provides the most majestic backdrop for Sarah and Adam's celebrations. In Part I, I mentioned how stunning I thought the back of Sarah's dress was, so I've included a couple more pictures below! Thanks again to Damian Bailey for the beautiful shots. Classic, 2010-07-02T05:35:48+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/classic_style_at_goodwood http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/classic_style_at_goodwood#When:06:17:01Z I've dabbled internationally and even across hemispheres recently on this site, but there is nothing a UK wedding blog likes more than celebrating the style of a quintessentially English wedding. Sarah and Adam's sensational wedding at the majestic Goodwood just oozes classic, English style. Not only is Goodwood a breathtaking backdrop, but Sarah's dress may just have the most beautiful back I've seen on a wedding dress - don't you agree?! Another cracker from my own wedding photographer, Damian Bailey. Classic, 2010-06-30T06:17:01+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/new_zealand_wedding_with_wonderful_details_ii http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/new_zealand_wedding_with_wonderful_details_ii#When:09:29:55Z Welcome back to Bridget and John's stunning wedding! The wedding took place in Tauranga, on New Zealand's north island. The ceremony was held at Tauranga Rose Gardens and then it was onto Tauranga Yacht Club for the reception. These dreamy, romantic images were taken by Tracy Stamatakos of One Black Sheep. Tracy came highly recommended by friends of Bridget and John, and instantly understood the look that the couple wanted for their wedding. Scroll to the bottom of the post for details on the stunning flowers and venue decorations. Classic, Vintage, 2010-06-29T09:29:55+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/new_zealand_wedding_with_wonderful_details http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/new_zealand_wedding_with_wonderful_details#When:06:08:40Z This wedding sends shivers down my spine. To me, it is sheer perfection. Shot so beautifully by Tracy Stamatakos of One Black Sheep, it took place in New Zealand, but the backdrop could easily be mistaken for New England and the details have a very European flavour. Bridget and John were married in a ceremony at Tauranga Rose Gardens, and then moved onto Tauranga Yacht Club for the reception. Please come back and visit tomorrow for Part II, where we'll have lots more information on how Bridget and John put the wedding together as well as images of the romantic, vintage details from the day. Classic, Destinations, Vintage, 2010-06-28T06:08:40+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/octavia_plum_stationery_shot_by_aneta_mak http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/octavia_plum_stationery_shot_by_aneta_mak#When:06:24:33Z I'm very happy to welcome 2 wonderful wedding suppliers to the site today. I came across Aneta Mak recently when she shot the wedding of a good friend of mine; we'll be featuring this amazing wedding in the coming weeks! When I was browsing through her stunning blog I saw her beautiful photos of Octavia Plum wedding stationery. I'm very pleased that both Aneta and Octavia have given me permission to feature these today. I highly recommend a peek at Aneta's gorgeous, dreamy blog - perfect eye-candy for your coffee break! stationary, 2010-06-25T06:24:33+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/stunning_indian_themed_wedding_in_gloucestershire_ii http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/stunning_indian_themed_wedding_in_gloucestershire_ii#When:07:21:23Z Welcome back to Part 2 of the gorgeous, sumptuous explosion of colour that is Laura and Ben's wedding. Captured in all its splendour by Catherine Mead, it pays homage to Laura's Indian links through her family and the interior design company, Bombay Duck, of which she is managing director. The wedding was shown in Brides magazine earlier this year - you can see the article, with more detail on the wedding & suppliers, here. Click here to see Part 1 as featured yesterday. Decors, Rustic, 2010-06-24T07:21:23+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/stunning_indian_themed_wedding_in_gloucestershire http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/stunning_indian_themed_wedding_in_gloucestershire#When:07:10:26Z I came across Catherine Mead recently when she shot the amazing civil ceremony at Sezincote that I featured a week or two ago. So I was thrilled when she offered me the chance to showcase this absolutely stunning Indian-themed wedding that she had had featured in Brides magazine earlier in the year. You can see the full original article and read more about Laura and Ben's wedding here. This wedding is a bloggers dream! It's so rich in detail and when I saw that Catherine had dedicated an entire section of the online album to the details alone, I nearly fell off my chair. It won't come as a surprise to hear that Laura has heavy links with India and is managing director of Bombay Duck. This Gloucestershire celebration actually followed a 3-day wedding in India, and the company's suppliers were heavily involved in sourcing the exquisite details for both events. Please check back in tomorrow to see tonnes more jewel-coloured detail and beautiful shots of the marquee by night. Ambience, Decors, Rustic, 2010-06-23T07:10:26+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/olivia_toms_suffolk_wedding_with_teepees_ii http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/olivia_toms_suffolk_wedding_with_teepees_ii#When:10:04:26Z Welcome back to Part II of Olivia and Tom's Suffolk wedding, and today it's all about the stunning teepees! Given that they were marrying in March, Olivia and Tom were worried that a regular white marquee might feel too cold and corporate. They wanted a relaxed, rustic feel and instead opted for the less obvious choice of a series of teepees. Not only did the orange interiors give off a great sense of warmth but the open fires inside mirrored the bonfires outside. The result: chilled, cosy and elegant. The images were beautifully captured by Anna McCarthy and I just love the outdoor photos of Olivia and Tom and of the teepees by night - sends shivers down my spine! Classic, Rustic, 2010-06-22T10:04:26+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/chilled_suffolk_wedding_with_teepees http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/chilled_suffolk_wedding_with_teepees#When:10:14:34Z Olivia and Tom were married in Tunstall, Suffolk, at Olivia's family home. They opted for a chilled-out, rustic wedding and their choice of teepees for the reception venue not only made an instant statement, but set a tone of relaxation and warmth on a changeable March day. The photos throughout the day and across a spectrum of weather conditions were beautifully captured by Anna McCarthy. Please tune back in tomorrow for a look at the teepees and details from inside the tents ... and scroll down for some great shots in the gorgeous vintage car! Classic, Rustic, 2010-06-21T10:14:34+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/vicky_steve_arabian_nights_in_new_zealand http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/vicky_steve_arabian_nights_in_new_zealand#When:09:32:47Z The last New Zealand wedding I featured went down so well that I went back to the photographer, Tracy Stamatakos of One Black Sheep photography to ask her to share more magic. We have her to thank for today's 'extravaganza of sensory overload', in the bride's own words. Incredible, Middle Eastern marquee, stunning details, and an explosion of colour make this wedding a serious visual treat. And I love the photos of the bride and groom too ... Destinations, DIY, 2010-06-18T09:32:47+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/by_appointment_only_design_launches_bouquets http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/by_appointment_only_design_launches_bouquets#When:05:43:53Z How fantastic are these pictures?! Javier from By Appointment Only Design sent them over to me and I squealed with joy when I saw them! I am always partial to a pastel-toned v-neck on a preppy young man and these photos are such a lighthearted, clever way to show off BAOD's stunning new range of bouquets which they are launching soon. I love the colours - so J Crew!! Gentlemen take note - these blooms should go down a treat with whomever you choose to spoil with one ... Decors, 2010-06-17T05:43:53+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/david_ians_civil_partnership_at_sezincote_iii http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/david_ians_civil_partnership_at_sezincote_iii#When:05:37:14Z Today we come to the end of the style trilogy that is David and Ian's civil partnership at Sezincote. I've enjoyed putting this feature together so much. And I just love these lilac-hued evening shots that Catherine Mead has captured. Once again, thank you also to By Appointment Only Design for their beautiful florals and for sending me this gorgeous spread in the first place. The incredible event styling and coordination was done by Last Supper Ltd. Contemporary, Decors, 2010-06-16T05:37:14+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/david_ians_civil_partnership_at_sezincote_ii http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/david_ians_civil_partnership_at_sezincote_ii#When:06:55:21Z Welcome back to Part II of this unbelievably stylish civil partnership. I just can't get enough of the details, and Catherine Mead captured them in such abundance that I wanted to dedicate a post to looking at the incredible care and attention that was lavished on the details for this event. The classic monochrome of the marquee provides a gorgeous blank canvas for a vast array of flowers in green and white, from structural floral topiaries to wild blooms. The flowers, which have to be seen to be believed, were created by By Appointment Only Design, and the event planning and styling was put together with perfection by Last Supper Ltd. Contemporary, Decors, 2010-06-15T06:55:21+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/david_ians_civil_partnership_at_sezincote http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/david_ians_civil_partnership_at_sezincote#When:08:34:59Z We have two 'firsts' this week. Firstly, our first featured civil partnership. And secondly, our first three-parter!! David and Ian's wedding is so stylish, so bursting with detail and so beautifully put together that when Javier from By Appointment Only Design sent it over I knew I had to do it serious justice by featuring as much of the detail as I possibly could. The celebration took place at Sezincote, a jaw-dropping Indian house in the Cotswolds that I had never come across before. Combine this incredible backdrop with event planning by Last Supper Ltd, an abundance of blooms by By Appointment Only Design and gorgeous photography by Catherine Mead and you have my idea of heaven. Today's post will feature the amazing gardens & marquee (the most stylish marquee I've ever seen), tomorrow is a floral extravaganza, and the third part will be a peek at the glorious purple-hued night-time celebrations. Enjoy!!! Contemporary, Decors, 2010-06-14T08:34:59+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/inspiration_from_my_favourite_colour_..._grey http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/inspiration_from_my_favourite_colour_..._grey#When:06:10:44Z You may have already guessed from the design of this site, but grey is my absolute favourite colour. I am obsessed. Both of the flats I’ve owned have had the top-to-toe Farrow & Ball treatment, and our new marital home is very likely going to meet the same fate (my husband is resigned). The reason for writing this post is that I also love, love, love grey as the basis for weddings. It can be stately, elegant, cool, warm, shabby, Provencal, colonial, clean, sludgy, contemporary and traditional. I love every spectrum of the grey family, from blue-grey to dove-grey to taupe. Below is just a selection from some of my favourite websites illustrating the fabulous versatility of grey. I am sure that this is a soap-box I will get back on many times in future! If you have seen grey weddings that you adore, I would love to see them! Kicking off with blue-grey … from one of my favourite inspiration shoots. Ambience, Decors, 2010-06-10T06:10:44+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/cornwall_wedding_in_charming_blue_and_white http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/cornwall_wedding_in_charming_blue_and_white#When:20:59:43Z This wedding puts a huge grin on my face. I am going to a wedding in Cornwall in August and, having seen how the Cornish put on a party, I am very excited! What's not to love about this wedding ... the sun is shining, there's a ridiculous beach, the blue and white colour scheme strikes the perfect note of jollity, and everyone looks so happy and healthy! It makes me want to get an icecream ... and there are even sandcastles on the tables!!! Seriously, seriously cool. Yet another corker from the wonderful Damian Bailey. Classic, DIY, 2010-06-08T20:59:43+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/branding_your_wedding_betsywhite_stationery http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/branding_your_wedding_betsywhite_stationery#When:21:22:42Z I love monograms and logos, and particularly love the idea of having a 'couple' monogram for one's wedding & beyond. I absolutely adore some of the very feminine, but very strong and very clean, logos that the US wedding industry produces. I came across Betsywhite Stationery some time ago and stored up the link. I LOVE their work! I recently contacted them asking if I could feature their wedding logos and they sent me back some stunning, candy-coloured examples. A big thank you to them for the images and for their words of wisdom below! 2010-06-07T21:22:42+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/norfolk_wedding_with_a_party_to_end_all_parties_ii http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/norfolk_wedding_with_a_party_to_end_all_parties_ii#When:21:33:21Z Welcome back to part 2 of this fantastic Norfolk wedding with all the ingredients of a great party. On Friday I promised sparklers and quad bikes - well here they are. Scroll on down and enjoy! Thanks again to Damian Bailey for capturing the fun in such style. Classic, 2010-06-06T21:33:21+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/norfolk_wedding_with_a_party_to_end_all_parties http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/norfolk_wedding_with_a_party_to_end_all_parties#When:15:56:06Z This wedding really is amazing. It looks like the most riotous blast of a day ever, and it has everything - blazing sunshine, sparklers, quad bikes, bag-pipes and a huge convoy of gorgeous vintage cars. Add to that a stunning Norfolk setting, glorious florals and beautiful bridesmaid dresses and it's a real visual feast. The permanent smiles on the faces of the bride, groom and every single one of the guests say it all. You'll have to wait till Monday for round 2 - and for the quad bikes and sparklers ... thanks once again to the awesome Damian Bailey for capturing the action with such gusto. Classic, 2010-06-04T15:56:06+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/the_state_of_grace_red_carpet_styling_for_your_wedding http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/the_state_of_grace_red_carpet_styling_for_your_wedding#When:18:29:46Z I am extremely excited to feature The State of Grace, brainchild of the lovely Lucia Silver, designer and stylist. I was introduced to Lucia halfway through my engagement and she was a major factor in dictating the direction my bridal style took (more on that in a minute). I engaged her help to find me my gorgeous vintage 'statement' jewellery, but The State of Grace is about MUCH more than that, offering a complete top-to-toe service - that's dress, accessory and shoe design as well as make up and hair styling for brides (and beyond) from her Aladdin's cave atelier in Notting Hill. In short, it's true red carpet styling for the bride. Check out their decadent, sumptuous, brand new website, launched this week. Just gorgeous. Accessories, Bridal Attire, Cosmetics, Vintage, 2010-06-02T18:29:46+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/idyllic_september_wedding_at_longstowe_hall http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/idyllic_september_wedding_at_longstowe_hall#When:21:26:58Z So we're into June, prime wedding season, and the first day of the month has been a complete and utter write-off on the weather front. Ugh. With "global weirding" on the up, is a June wedding a remotely safe bet these days? I draw your attention instead to today's feature, Toby and Mel's Cambridgeshire wedding on a halcyon September day. Seems like a much better bet! The golden weather and golden bride has lifted my mood, and as always, Damian Bailey's photography is an utter delight. Enjoy - roll on September! Classic, 2010-06-01T21:26:58+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/north_yorkshire_wedding_with_beautiful_details http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/north_yorkshire_wedding_with_beautiful_details#When:06:52:27Z Donna and Michael have been together since they met at college aged 17. They have grown up together and are best friends. The beautiful wedding below is relaxed, informal and choc-full of gorgeous details. Fiona Hogg is responsible for the amazing floral displays scattered around the rooms, and Rebecca Honeywell has captured all the details perfectly. Scroll down for Donna's own words on how this magical wedding came together ... Decors, Rustic, 2010-06-01T06:52:27+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/us_wedding_blogs_my_top_5 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/us_wedding_blogs_my_top_5#When:06:28:18Z 2010-05-28T06:28:18+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/decadent_blooms_by_by_appointment_only_design http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/decadent_blooms_by_by_appointment_only_design#When:05:46:13Z A couple of things today. First, please click here to see a list I've compiled of my Top 5 US wedding blogs. Do you agree?! Secondly, I have a very fun floral photoshoot today, courtesy of By Appointment Only Designs. I featured a gorgeous wedding of theirs recently and boy, can these guys do flowers in style. I love the way that Javier and Tony celebrate blooms in abundance, and this shoot is very striking in contrasting luxurious flower arrangements with the bare shell of a house, and warm tones with cool. Enjoy!! Decors, 2010-05-28T05:46:13+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/the_perfect_english_barn_wedding http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/the_perfect_english_barn_wedding#When:21:41:25Z There are so many gorgeous rustic wedding venues in England, and as we approach prime wedding season, I wanted to feature what is surely a poster-child for a quintessential English June wedding: beautiful barn in pretty-as-a-picture surroundings, perfect weather, the most thoughtful details, seasonal flowers, and a radiantly happy bride and groom. And, to give you even more of a warm glow, James and Gina are expecting a little baby this month. Thank you for sharing your beautiful wedding and all the very best for the next chapter! And, once again, a huge thank you to Damian Bailey for capturing the whole day so beautifully. Rustic, 2010-05-26T21:41:25+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/dreamy_new_zealand_beach_wedding_ii http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/dreamy_new_zealand_beach_wedding_ii#When:06:49:31Z Welcome back to Part II of Mel and Paul's gorgeous NZ wedding (click here for Part I or scroll down...) on magical Mt Maunganui Beach. Thanks again to Tracy from One Black Sheep for the beautiful pictures! Contemporary, Destinations, 2010-05-26T06:49:31+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/dreamy_new_zealand_beach_wedding http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/dreamy_new_zealand_beach_wedding#When:06:37:06Z I’m keen to bring an international flavour to this site to widen the inspiration pool, and what better way to kick things off than this glorious New Zealand beach wedding! Mel and Paul’s big day is romantic and laid-back and boasts the most amazing colour scheme of powdery pinks and blues. A huge thank you to Tracy Stamatakos of One Black Sheep photography for her stunning images. There is so much gorgeousness to show that we’ll be featuring the rest in Part II tomorrow ... Contemporary, Destinations, 2010-05-25T06:37:06+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/beyond_weddings_the_ultimate_gift_registry http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/beyond_weddings_the_ultimate_gift_registry#When:17:26:32Z Do you already have enough pots and pans? If you're kitted out with the basics and looking for a useful and practical way for your wedding guests to contribute to your future life together, Beyond Weddings could just be the answer. Brainchild of interior designer Chelsea Bidwill, it offers you as a couple the chance to work with a true professional to enhance the interior of your home on any scale or budget, and allows your guests to contribute to anything from a kitchen renovation to the re-upholstering of an heirloom chair. It's a brilliant, why-didn't-I-think-of-that-before concept that offers a perfect solution for today's bride, groom & guests alike. Scroll down for some words from Chelsea and some of her brides, and to get a taster of Chelsea's next venture … Wedding Lists, 2010-05-22T17:26:32+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/vintage_pre_wedding_shoot_by_julia_boggio http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/vintage_pre_wedding_shoot_by_julia_boggio#When:20:52:51Z No, this is not a poster for Pearl Harbour: The Sequel. It's Jo and Luke's very own, very memorable, war-time themed pre-wedding shoot. It was shot by the immensely glamorous, creative, fun-loving Julia Boggio and I absolutely adore it!! I wrote a post recently making the case for pre-wedding shoots - well if that didn't persuade you to take the plunge, surely this will! Scroll down for some words from Jo and Julia themselves - and ENJOY! Vintage, 2010-05-18T20:52:51+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/winter_wedding_at_babington_house http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/winter_wedding_at_babington_house#When:11:30:15Z Lucy and Matthew have shown us how to do a classic English wedding in style. Take a cold, crisp November day, Babington House (no one does English country house better), a beautiful grey-green colour palette, your very own heartbreakingly beautiful chapel and a couple of incredibly glamorous mothers! What a wedding ... shot to perfection by the ever-talented Damian Bailey. The penultimate photo is my favourite - sheer class. Classic, Rustic, 2010-05-18T11:30:15+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/the_case_for_pre_wedding_shoots http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/the_case_for_pre_wedding_shoots#When:07:21:25Z Today I wanted to make a case for engagement, or pre-wedding, shoots, to which I am a total convert. In the interest of transparency, we didn’t have one. To be even more honest, when a girlfriend of mine (American) recommended that I have one … I sniggered. When my sister and her husband did theirs, it was pitched to them more as a trial for the real thing and was all a bit random and uncomfortable for them. So why bother? Well, I love my wedding pics. I love having shots of Chris and me where a talented photographer and an expensive lense have worked their magic on us … and now, after the fact, I would happily have more great, professional shots of us in a slightly more relaxed context. While I've been discovering how brides in other countries approach their weddings, I've seen some staggeringly beautiful, romantic, creative, thoughtful and uncheesy (well, maybe just a bit) shoots, capturing the radiant vibe of a couple engaged. Aussie and American couples (and wedding photographers) do this very well. Meanwhile in the UK, as far as I can tell, the concept is not particularly well established, and with hindsight I think this is a shame. If we had our time again, I would seriously consider (1) persuading Chris, (2) finding a cool corner of London, (3) thinking about the style and colour scheme that we want and (4) putting on a little 'production' that will yield some sweet, whimsical, well put together creations to remind us of an idyllic engagement. I am thinking an anniversary shoot may be the way forward … !! Anyway, happily I have come across a couple of UK wedding photographers who do pre-wedding or engagement shoots and do them very well indeed. Tomorrow I have a real treat in store – a beautifully styled vintage engagement shoot courtesy of the wonderful Julia Boggio. And today I have asked Rebecca Honeywell to provide some words of encouragement – and some examples of stunning, very natural engagement sessions she has done. Over to Rebecca to tell you and show you why you should consider one! 2010-05-17T07:21:25+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/stapleford_park_wedding_by_by_appointment_only_designs http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/stapleford_park_wedding_by_by_appointment_only_designs#When:07:14:52Z This gorgeous wedding comes courtesy of Javier and Tony at By Appointment Only Design. They are an incredibly talented and engaging duo who can offer anything from stunning floral arrangements to a top-to-toe styling service for your big day. They styled this wedding at Stapleford Park (shot by Stephen Gormley) and I just love the cream and cappuccino shades they used. The flowers, the table settings, and the tented ceiling are perfection. I am extremely happy to say that we have more treats in store from BAOD in the coming weeks! And if you are based in London, be sure to check out their incredible boutique in Marylebone's Chiltern Street; it's a gorgeous grotto of indulgence and inspiration for brides and non-brides alike! Classic, 2010-05-17T07:14:52+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/j_crew_bridal_bounty http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/j_crew_bridal_bounty#When:18:31:18Z For anyone who knows me, it won’t be a surprise that the first fabulous US goodies I'm featuring come from J Crew. It is quite literally my favourite store in the world. For those of you who aren't as familiar with it, it perfects the classic all-American style, and its bridal range is the epitome of this. In the US these days the secret is out, and many savvy US brides have themselves and their maids kitted out in gorgeous J Crew style. However, if you or your maids don J Crew in the UK, rest assured that it is still far from an obvious choice. Given the pictures below, it's difficult to see why. The wedding collection is a truly fantastic range of effortless chic whether you're plumping for neutrals, pastels or full on candy-colours for your wedding party. But it's worth checking out the broader site - especially the jewellery - for some absolute corkers - the necklace below is to DIE for … Accessories, Bridal Attire, across the pond, 2010-05-16T18:31:18+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/our_london_wedding_ii http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/our_london_wedding_ii#When:14:28:59Z Welcome back to our wedding!! So, Il Bottaccio was the first and only venue we looked at, because we fell in love with it straight away. It's two stunning Georgian houses knocked together to create the most elegant entertaining space. Not only that, but it came with the most amazing team of professionals who pulled off an utterly flawless performance on our big day, and who were a delight to work with. And, at less than a mile from the Oratory and a stone's throw from Hyde Park corner where Chris and I got some great sunset 'Mr & Mrs shots', it was our perfect venue! City, Classic, 2010-05-15T14:28:59+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/hello_welcome http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/hello_welcome#When:14:25:27Z Hello, and welcome to the first post in Reader, I Married Him! I’ve created this blog to be a behind-the-scenes channel where I can chat away about everything from my own journey up the aisle, my little soapbox moments such as my plea for more of you to consider engagement shoots (coming up very soon!!) and the experience of running this blog. The idea is that this blog will run in parallel with the front page. These posts won’t appear in full on the front page (though I’ll link to them from time to time) because the front page is all about the pretty, and I don’t want to take away from that even for one day! My biggest priority is to have something swoon-worthy showing up on the home page every time you are kind enough to visit SMDTA, and something new every (week)day. This is just a little bit extra when I have something to share … For those of you who haven’t read Jane Eyre, that’s where I’ve lifted the title of this section from; it’s one of my favourite quotes and there’s something so touching about the confiding tone in which Jane shares her news. We all need an outlet, and I’m sure my husband will be relieved that I have somewhere to divert my stream of consciousness, rather than at him for once! The success of SMDTA will depend much more on my ability to source gorgeous wedding eye-candy then on any writing talent I may or may not have, so this, rather than the home page, will be where I get to do most of my writing. Coming up next … my conversion from major engagement shoot sceptic to huge fan (I have been totally and utterly converted by the US blogs!!!), and a big plea on the same subject from one of my favourite UK wedding photographers and a great believer in the case for engagement shoots – the very talented Rebecca Honeywell. Speak to you soon! 2010-05-15T14:25:27+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/our_london_wedding1 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/our_london_wedding1#When:21:07:49Z Welcome to Style Me Down The Aisle's first featured real wedding!! I thought I would kick things off with a glimpse of our own wedding in March, which gives you an idea of my style and gives me the chance to blow the trumpet for our wonderful, talented photographer Damian Bailey. You'll be seeing a lot more of his work on SMDTA ... Anyway, over to our wedding. We got married at the wonderful London Oratory church on a beautiful, crisp, sunny day and followed it up with a reception at Il Bottaccio, off Hyde Park Corner. Pictures of the reception coming up in Part II tomorrow! City, Classic, 2010-05-12T21:07:49+00:00 http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/across_the_pond http://stylemedowntheaisle.com/index.php/version1/content/across_the_pond#When:11:25:22Z There's no doubt about it, American brides really know how to put on a wedding in style. They've been taught well by Martha Stewart … I love looking at US wedding blogs, but it's not particularly helpful to know that (a) the stunningly talented wedding planners and photographers they feature are based thousands of miles away, and (b) that given the weather in this wonderful country, looking at snaps of a picture-perfect Malibu beach wedding is not going to yield many practical tips for the British bride. However. There is one invention that can help us get our hands on some of that All-American goodness. One of those how-did-I-not-think-of-this-myself inventions … the amazing Bundle Box. If you haven't encountered Bundle Box, it's my dream come true - a company that provides you with a US mailing address (and even a US credit card if necessary) to allow you to shop online at US stores and ship your purchases to BB which will package up your loot, work out shipping & tax costs, and deliver it all to your door quick-smart for one integrated fee. Not quite as tax "efficient" as getting your US-based colleagues to take delivery of and lug over your booty on their next business trip, but a brilliant, (almost) instant-gratification solution. Thanks to Bundle Box, it's possible to devote a snippet of this blog to the delights that await you across the pond in the Land of Plenty. Stay posted for some gorgeous American style ideas that YOU can get your hands on ... across the pond, 2010-04-01T11:25:22+00:00