11.06.2013

I finally got around to sitting down and going through some of our wedding pictures! You girls have been so sweet and supportive of my planning process during the past few months, and I really appreciate all of the kindness and suggestions! As many of you know, my husband and I were married on the beach on September 21st. I was worried sick for about two weeks leading up to the wedding. We planned most of it ourselves, and although we did receive generous help from both of our families and close friends, it was an incredibly daunting task nonetheless. Nate and I aren't big party planners, and neither of us really like too much attention so the whole thing was a lesson in confidence and stress management. However, the big day was beautiful. The sun shined brightly, despite the gloomy weather that had taken place all that week. A good sign! 
The worrying I had done did hold some validity though.There were some things that didn't go as I'd hoped. It was extremely windy that afternoon, so my hair and veil were kind of all over the place for most of the ceremony and reception! Also, even though our florist did a gorgeous job on the flowers, she left out some rose petals that were supposed to line the aisle in a swirl design. Some of my Etsy decor got lost in the shuffle, and didn't make it onto the tables. But, I felt so loved by our friends and family members that it ultimately didn't (and doesn't) matter. I married my better half, my best friend. I am so blessed, and I feel it every day I am with him.

I am only sharing a few pictures, partly because there are just too many to post and partly because I want to keep some private for ourselves. I hope you enjoy :)



My dress was designed by Essence Of Australia. Layers of lace and chiffon, complete with a lace-up corset in the back. It was altered three times due to the length, and the bust had to be heavily altered as well! It came with a gorgeous train, but because we got married right on the sand, that had to be bustled underneath. 



My husband and brother-in-law :)


Sweet Layers wedding cake, made mostly of red velvet. It was so delicious!

We had a sand ceremony, quite fitting for the beach.




















Notes:
Pinterest was my best tool in planning our wedding. However, if I were to do it all over again, I would hire a wedding planner. WORTH IT! Unless you enjoy planning of course :)

* It is true what they say, you know. I was an OCD, anxiety-ridden wreck months before our wedding. But the day of, I was actually really calm. My bridesmaids helped with that. And everything went by so quickly! The best advice I can give future brides? Relax! Enjoy it! It's only ONE day!

* In case you are planning your wedding right now, I wanted to share a 15% off discount code with you to Simply Bridal. They offer dresses, veils, and other beautiful accessories for brides-to-be! They were kind enough to reach out to me and offer my readers this discount. At Check-out, enter code SBL263BG.


If you have any specific questions on decor, the ceremony, or reception, feel free to ask! 
♥ Noelle

11.04.2013





Wearing: Loft trench (last Fall, similar here)Express leggings, Ivanka Trump flats, Michael Kors Selma bag, Essie polish in "Cocktail Bling"


This adorable striped trench coat is by far one of the best purchases I've ever made. I wore it to death all of last Fall and Winter, and I expect the same thing to happen this season. We went to the beach Friday night, and it was definitely chilly. The sweater leggings from Express kept me warm too! They are pretty thick, not flimsy like your typical pair. I recommend them for cozy, comfy nights. Lately, I find myself reaching for simple pieces that don't require much thought. You can never go wrong with a classic trench, a structured bag, and lady-like flats.

♥ Noelle

10.30.2013






Blazer - H&M
Jeans - Loft
Scarf Necklace - Anthropologie (check stores)
Pumps - Zara


Sunday was the perfect Fall day. Husband and I decided to take a walk through a beautiful community area, complete with a lake and benches to relax on. As we were walking along the path, I looked down at my feet and smiled from ear to ear - red and orange leaves were scattered about like confetti. Fall is such a fleeting season isn't it? We rarely get to enjoy it here. Summer turns straight into Winter, bypassing that perfect time of year where it's cool enough to wear light layers but warm enough to spend evenings outside. It's such a delicate balance, one I'm always searching for. I think this will become our Sunday ritual :)

Happy Halloween in advance! Are you girls doing anything special? Mine will revolve around comfy Pj's and passing out candy to kiddos.

♥ Noelle

10.28.2013




Wearing: H&M blazer (similar)Frenchi dress, Zara pumps (similar), J Crew Factory clutch (similar), Stella & Dot pendant, Fossil watch (rose gold), O.P.I. polish in Lincoln Park at Midnight


Some combinations are just meant for each other. When it comes to dressing up for a night out, black and gold are a match made in heaven. Chic, elegant, and expensive looking. I've been on the look-out for a good LBD, especially with the holiday season coming up. This one with bursts of gold flakes is a great option. Simply throw on a blazer, some glittering gold accessories, and a leather clutch. The outcome is classic.

I hope you all enjoyed your weekend!

♥ Noelle