Real Bride Hadley in Josephine by Leah Da Gloria at her Timeless Ringling Museum Wedding

Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal? 

John and I met while attending SCAD in Savannah GA and were immediately inseparable. We met through a mutual friend bringing him along to what was going to be a "girls night" dinner, and quickly began making plans to spend time together. We spent the balance of our college years side by side studying art together ( and fashion merchandising for me, Graphic design for him) and moved to Florida with our fur baby after graduation. Our favorite staycation is highland beach in boca raton, and this is where he planned a surprise proposal to me. He secretly flew some of our friends and family in and they lined the walk to the beach, each handing me a red rose with John at the end. We had been together for 7 years prior to the proposal so it was time!

When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision? 

Luckily, we were always very consistent with what we were envisioning the day to look like in regards to design and detail/theme. My goal was to have a timeless wedding, almost entirely void of current trends. I was inspired by royal weddings (as a major Princess Diana Fan) and wanted to capture a timeless, elegant essence. I wanted to blend this with elements unique to John and I, and wanted to marry in a historic and european looking venue. Most of our family was unable to travel out of the country and we wanted to emulate an Italian wedding with no passports required. The wedding was everything we had envisioned and more and we are grateful for all of our vendors that helped make it happen. I wanted to ensure the color palette consisted of black/white/cream given the vivid pink backdrop of the Ringling Museum.

What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding? 

It was important to us to ensure although we wanted a timeless wedding, we wanted it to feel unique to us with special touches that represent our love and story. I work in fashion, fashion is my life and I also wanted to ensure we captured that in the details and of course THE DRESS

How did you decide on the location? 

We wanted to plan a big Italian wedding, with a theme of renaissance revival. I wanted to capture our love for art and history with classic details, in a truly unique setting. We looked at several locations throughout the country, however as soon as we stepped foot in the Ringling Museum Courtyard we knew it was the one. As we toured the art museum for the first time we immediately recognized many works of art that we had studied together in art history classes in college and knew that this was the place that would be the backdrop of our perfect day.

Let's talk dress! Give us all the deets! 

Shopping for the dress was my lifes work coming to fruition. I ended up trying on around 65 dresses in total, and none were quite right until i found myself in Chic Parisian in Josephine by Leah Da Gloria. I knew I wanted a ball gown, with no beading/sprakle and wanted the shape and the fabric to do the talking. Kendall, had done such a great job pulling several stunning options for me, and I knew when I put Josephine on it was the one. I loved everything about the shape, the beautiful jacquard fabric and the regal train. The only detail that i was not in love with was the neckline- and Kendall worked her magic with the Leah team and they agreed to create the gown for me with a custom sweetheart neckline. In my professional life as a fashion buyer, we always laugh and say never commit to an order before you see it, and I could not believe here i was ordering my wedding dress without seeing what the neckline would truly look like on the dress. Nonetheless, Kendall assured me it would be beautiful and it was absolutely perfect. It was so perfect, that I did not want to take it off the night of the wedding and did not change into my reception dress.

On a side note- I had followed Kendall on instagram for years and always loved her style and wedding gown videos. It was such a full circle moment when she ended up being my bridal stylist and I knew when I saw her that we would end up finding my gown!

How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day? 

John and I have family in colorado and new york. so outside of wedding dress shopping we did most of our wedding planning by ourselves and kept everyone involved via phone calls/texts. As for the day itself we were so lucky to have them involved in all of the traditional elements of the day.

What's one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don't think you'll ever forget. 

There are so many memories that i will cherish forever, including my first look with John. However another special memory was was putting on the dress with the help of my Mom and my maid of honor. The morning was very busy with everyone getting ready and quickly turned into a full blown photoshoot with our wonderful photography team, video team and content creators. Then as it grew near to put on the dress, the noise quieted, Frank sinatra hummed in the background and most of the group left the room for me to put on the dress. It was so special and was something I will always cherish getting to share with my mom and maid of honor.It was the final moment of peace before the events of the day began

How did you decide on your hair and makeup look? 

I always thought an up do would look best with the dress, and found Jany, a master of her craft on instagram and the look was everything I had hoped for. I am the ultimate girly girl and wanted to look as glam as possible, so I found a glam expert for my makeup (Ashley Robinson for Give Me Glam) and the marriage of the two was perfect. 

Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about? 

I think everyone should know about all of my vendors, but in particular Abner Reyes had an incredible impact on our day and the year leading up to it. Not only was Abner our photographer, he was so much more than that. He partnered with me on creative direction and was on our journey with us every step of the way. We will continue to work with him as other photography needs arise. Gamutcine was our videoographer and the content we recieved was above and beyond our expectations! We felt like family by the end of the wedding as we had spent so much time together and they were with us in all of our most special moments

Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part? 

because our wedding was in November right before the holidays, we are taking our honeymoon to italy this upcoming June!! We are looking forward to eating good food, looking at art/architecture and of course SHOPPING!

Real Bride Morgan in Laurel by Monique Lhuillier in Charleston, South Carolina

Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal? 

We met/dated back in high school but went out separate ways in college. After 3 years, as I was finishing up school in Alabama, I came back home for summer and ran into Lane. Our relationship rekindled and we eventually started dating again. At that point and time, we knew marriage was our next step.

When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision? 

I envisioned a southern wedding. Southern charm to better explain it. Being from the south, and I wanted something that held a lot of beauty, but also resembled who we are. That actual wedding surpassed all of my dreams and expectations.

What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding? 

It was very important to both Lane and I to have a cross at the ceremony to get married in front of, and it was so beautiful. We also really wanted the venue to have good food, and it most definitely did. 

How did you decide on the location? 

It was super random, we just found it on safari and fell in love with it. Plus Charleston, SC is such a neat town that holds a lot of history. We wanted a destination wedding, but something not too far for our guests. 

Let's talk dress! Give us all the deets! 

I had no clue what I wanted in a dress when I went dress shopping. And I could have never envisioned my dream dress to be the one I picked, but WOW was it a statement. And then you threw the veil on there, and it was truly amazing and purely unique. 

How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day? 

Everyone played a huge role, they contributed in all sorts of ways ensuring the day went smoothly and was perfect. And we had a large guests count, all whom were also close friends. They admired every little detail of the wedding, which as a bride, is like the best thing ever. And they had so much fun!

What's one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don't think you'll ever forget. 

I won’t ever forget walking down the aisle. The tunnel vision and the feeling of Gods presence was so surreal.

How did you decide on your hair and makeup look? 

I knew I wanted glam but didn’t want to go over board. I also was set on having my hair down, and last minute did it up, which I think was such a game changer. The up do was beautiful, plus it lasted all day and allowed for the dress to be its own moment without interruption.

Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about? 

My vendor team was a dream team. I could go on and on about each one of them. I couldn’t have just picked one as they were all so amazing.

Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part? 

We are currently on a 7 day cruise! The best part of traveling to all the different locations/islands.

Venue, Catering & Bar: @pphgevents

Planning & Design: @pphg_peninsulaevents

Florals: @festooncharleston

Photography: @makenziehamiltonphoto

Videography: @thehaneyco

Content Creation: @capturedcreative.co

Ceremony Entertainment: @charlestonelitemusicians

DJ: @dreamdaycharleston

Saxophonist: @itsjamalhallyallsax

Rentals: @snyderevents @pphgevents @curatedeventscharleston

Lighting & Draping: @lowcountryentertainment

Printed Materials: @papergarden_co

Hair & Makeup: @galyagornishka

Spray Tan: @liquidsunshinetanning

Wedding Gown: @moniquelhuillierbride @chicparisien

Real Bride Domenica in Monique Lhuillier and Ines Di Santo at her Wedding in Ecuador

Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal?

We met at Equinox in the most natural and unexpected way, and from the very beginning, something felt different. There was a calmness to him, a quiet confidence that made me feel instantly at ease.

On our first date, it was the small details that stayed with me. The way he spoke about his family, his dream of becoming a family man like his father, and the way he treated me, so intentional, thoughtful, and kind.

Growing up, the only man I had ever known with that level of genuine kindness was my father. It was something I had always admired and quietly hoped to find one day. From the very beginning, I could see that same quality in Beau, a kindness that felt natural and effortless, like it was simply who he was.

Shortly after we met, I had a trip planned to France with my best friend, and I remember wondering if the momentum would fade, but it didn’t. He was incredibly consistent. When I came back, he cooked for me, and from then on, everything felt easy. We laughed constantly, and being together felt natural, like something that didn’t need to be forced.

After a couple of months, he asked me to be his girlfriend and planned the most thoughtful trip to Deer Valley. Every detail was intentional, from the reservations to the way he made each moment feel special. We both poured into the relationship in meaningful ways. I would write him letters, wanting him to remember those early moments as something truly meaningful.

As our relationship grew, we became best friends. Even though our careers are both very demanding, we always made time for each other, whether it was dinner or simply being together.

What made everything even more special was the way he loved me. He allowed me to be fully myself, unconditionally. There was never a moment where I felt I had to change or hold back. With him, I felt safe, understood, and completely at home.

I truly believe he is my soulmate. It feels like we had to wait for each other, because we were both looking for something real and lasting. When we finally found each other, it was even better than anything I had ever prayed for.

We later traveled to Italy, and I thought he might propose during a romantic moment on Lake Como, but instead, he chose to wait for something even more meaningful.

On a trip to Ecuador that I thought was for my birthday, he asked for my father’s blessing. Shortly after, with the help of my sister and my best friend, he planned the most beautiful proposal on the beach in Key Biscayne, one of our favorite places. It was incredibly thoughtful, with a hidden photographer, the most romantic setting, and every detail perfectly curated.

It was everything I could have dreamed of and more.

When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision?

From the beginning, I envisioned something timeless, romantic, and deeply intentional. I wanted every detail to feel elegant and refined, but also warm and full of meaning, something that would never feel dated.

I was very mindful about avoiding trends that might not stand the test of time, and instead focused on classic elements, flowers, lighting, and thoughtful design that would always feel beautiful.

We also incorporated a tradition that is very popular in Ecuador known as the “crazy hour,” but we reimagined it in a way that felt elevated and intentional.

Instead of it feeling over the top, we designed three distinct moments within it. The first was inspired by Miami Vice, guests wore chic accessories we provided, and we played a series of Miami inspired songs that set a vibrant and stylish tone.

Later in the evening, we transitioned into a New York inspired moment, honoring my husband’s family and especially his grandfather’s New York roots. It was more classic and refined, with elegant Lady Liberty crowns worn by my closest friends, music inspired by New York, and fireworks that made the entire moment unforgettable.

We also included a brief country inspired segment, which brought another personal and playful energy to the celebration.

To honor Ecuadorian culture, we incorporated a coffee experience, which later transitioned into a late night golden Ecuadorian breakfast served around 2 a.m., something our guests absolutely loved.

When the day came, it was beyond anything I had imagined. It felt like stepping into a dream, where every detail came together perfectly, but more importantly, where the emotion and love in the room made it unforgettable.

How did you decide on the location?

We were incredibly fortunate to celebrate in two places that are deeply meaningful to us.

We had a civil wedding in Sarasota's field club, where my husband is from, thoughtfully planned by the Barnetts. For this celebration, I also wore a Monique Lhuillier old couture dress, which made it feel just as special and meaningful.

We then celebrated our church wedding in Ecuador, a religious ceremony, followed by a 300 guest reception. Being able to gather so many of our loved ones in a place that means so much to me made the celebration even more meaningful.

Having both an intimate and a larger celebration was truly a blessing. Each had its own atmosphere, and together they told our full story in the most beautiful way.

Let’s talk dress! Give us all the deets!

I knew from the very beginning that I wanted a Monique Lhuillier dress. I have always admired her designs because they are timeless, feminine, and incredibly elegant.

I was drawn to something inspired by Grace Kelly, classic, refined, and effortlessly beautiful. When I found my dress, I just knew. It felt like everything I had envisioned.

One of the most special details was the bolero, which I also got at Chic Parisien. It was a beautiful piece that wrapped around the dress for the church ceremony, giving the look an even more timeless and refined feeling. It matched the dress perfectly and truly felt like having two dresses in one. When I removed it, the dress transformed beautifully while still feeling completely cohesive.

It became one of the most talked about details of my bridal look.

For one of the wedding events, I also chose a mini dress by Ines Di Santo, which I also found at Chic Parisien. It felt modern, fun, and unexpected while still elegant, and I loved bringing that fashion element into the celebration.

The details made everything even more special, and to this day, people still talk about both looks. I feel so grateful to have worn pieces that felt so true to me.

How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day?

Our families played an essential role in every part of the planning process, which made the entire experience even more meaningful.

My whole family helped us plan the wedding. My sister, who is very talented in digital marketing, led many of the creative elements, including the invitations and overall communication. My mom was also deeply involved in bringing everything together with so much care and intention.

My husband’s family, the Barnetts, also played a beautiful role, including planning the Sarasota civil wedding and the ring ceremony.

For the wedding itself, we were very intentional about how guests experienced the celebration. In Ecuador, weddings are not traditionally structured around a formal sit down dinner, but we created thoughtful seating arrangements with tables named after Ecuadorian flowers. We placed guests in a way that ensured they were near people they already knew or would naturally connect with.

We also gave certain guests meaningful roles throughout the night. Some were fun captains, helping bring energy to the celebration, and others helped ensure different groups felt integrated. For example, because I have cousins from Germany, we made sure the German speaking table felt especially welcomed and connected.

At each table, we included letters sharing why we loved that group so much. It was a very personal touch that made every guest feel truly seen and appreciated, and it added a level of intention that made the celebration feel even more special.

What’s one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don’t think you’ll ever forget?

One moment I will never forget is dancing with my husband.

We had taken dance lessons, and during the dance, there was a moment where he lifted me into the air, and it felt so joyful, playful, and full of love.

It perfectly captured who we are together, not just romantic, but lighthearted and deeply connected. It is a feeling I will carry with me forever.

How did you decide on your hair and makeup look?

I wanted my look to feel timeless and true to me.

For my hair, I worked closely with my stylist Cenya in Miami to make sure the color and overall look felt classic and would never go out of style, something soft and elegant without following trends too closely.

One of the most meaningful elements was wearing a family heirloom, a crown that has been passed down through generations in my Spanish family. It was incredibly special to wear something with so much history and meaning, especially knowing it had been given to me by my grandmother.

For makeup, I wanted a soft, no makeup - make up look, something natural, polished, and elevated.

I worked with Maria Teresa Betancourt, one of the most talented makeup artists in Ecuador, and we went through multiple trials to perfect the look. Every detail was intentional, and that made the experience even more special.

Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about?

Our videographer, Aroca Proknown for capturing weddings like Yasmin Tookes’ celebration featured in Vogue and our internationally awarded photographer, Christian Bruckman, documented every moment with such artistry and emotion. Our decorator, Paula Cesa, one of the most recognized designers in Ecuador, brought our entire vision to life with unmatched elegance and impeccable taste, curating every detail, including her stunning furniture pieces, so beautifully.

And of course, the energy of the night would not have been the same without the band Rewind. With their incredible range, they brought every moment to life seamlessly performing everything from Latin classics to American favorites. At one point, if you closed your eyes, it truly felt as though Freddie Mercury himself was in the room.

Each of them played such an important role in making our day feel as magical, emotional, and unforgettable as it was.

Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part?

We have not gone on our honeymoon yet, but we are planning a trip to Courchevel later this year.

After the intensity of planning an international wedding and celebrating the wedding, we wanted to take our time and choose something truly special. It feels like the perfect way to continue the celebration, just the two of us.

Real Bride Mikaela in Leah Da Gloria at her Miami Wedding

Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal? 

Our love story all began on a warm Miami evening in October of 2020. Neel, fresh from New York City, was invited to a casual get-together at Mikaela’s apartment by a mutual friend. At first, he wasn’t sure he wanted to attend, but his friend insisted it would be worth it. That nudge from fate was all it took—because the moment Neel walked into Mikaela’s home, their story began to unfold. Neither of them could have imagined that this chance encounter would grow into a love story for the ages. As fate would have it, they first met in the very same building they now call home. Neel was splitting his time between New York and Miami, balancing work and life in both cities. But with each visit, his time in Miami grew longer. Mikaela had captured his heart, and soon, leaving her side wasn’t an option. By early 2021, Neel made the move permanent, and together, they started building a life filled with love and laughter. One of Mikaela’s talents shone early on: she found Neel a stunning home in Miami, which soon became their first home together.

Over the years, they built memories and shared adventures such as traveling the world (visiting 5 of 7 continents), cheering on the Buffalo Bills, and indulging in their shared love for great food & music at the finest venues. Their love deepened with every passing year, and on January 20, 2024, Neel took the next step. Mikaela had been out for a busy day showing properties to a client visiting from out of the country, completely unaware of the surprise waiting for her. When she returned to the Marquis—the very place where their journey began—Neel greeted her with an elaborate, heartfelt proposal he’d been planning for months. With love and excitement in the air, Mikaela said YES, setting the stage for the next chapter of their story. Now, Mikaela and Neel are thrilled to celebrate their love with their closest family and friends at the historic and iconic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables in October 2025. Their story is one of serendipity, love, and the belief that some moments are simply meant to be. Mikaela and Neel can’t wait to share their joy with all of you on their special day!

When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision? 

When we first started planning our wedding, we envisioned a full weekend in Miami surrounded by our closest friends and family at the iconic Biltmore Hotel. We wanted it to feel timeless, joyful, and deeply personal - a true celebration of love. The reality exceeded anything I could have imagined. Every moment felt magical, and having everyone we love in one place made it even more special. I feel so blessed and grateful to have experienced something so unforgettable & was truly a once-in-a-lifetime weekend.

What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding? 

We knew it was important to honor Neel’s heritage and celebrate his family’s traditions, so incorporating an Indian night felt incredibly meaningful to us. On Friday evening, we hosted a Sangeet — which quickly became one of the highlights of the entire weekend. The night was filled with vibrant colors, incredible music and entertainment, and, most importantly, nonstop dancing. It was such a joyful, high-energy celebration that brought everyone together in the most beautiful way.

How did you decide on the location? 

From the very beginning, we both knew Miami was where we wanted to say “I do.” While we briefly entertained the idea of a beautiful destination wedding in Europe, it never felt quite as meaningful — home is truly where the heart is. It was especially important to us that our grandparents and older family members could be there, and asking them to travel far wouldn’t have felt right. Miami is where we met and fell in love, so it felt only natural to begin this next chapter there. And when we stepped into the iconic Biltmore, its rich history and stunning architecture completely captured our hearts.

Let's talk dress! Give us all the deets! 

I visited a few different bridal boutiques, but the moment I heard about Chic Parisien, I just knew that’s where I would find my dress. I was paired with Kendall, and she was absolutely incredible — she immediately understood my style and knew exactly what silhouettes would flatter me. I only tried on a handful of gowns before I found “the one.” I said yes that day, surrounded by my mom and my maid of honor, which made it even more special. The dress was a stunning Leah Da Gloria full lace gown with a corseted bodice that fit me like a glove. It gave me the most beautiful hourglass shape and felt both feminine and powerful. The dramatic train added such elegance, and I chose a delicate lace bolero to layer over it for a timeless, classic touch. I completed the look with a long veil that cascaded behind me, perfectly complementing the train. Altogether, it felt like absolute perfection — I truly couldn’t have dreamed up a more “me” dress.

How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day? 

My mom Michele, and my maid of honor, Caroline, were by my side through every step of the process, and I’m endlessly grateful for their love and support. Neel’s parents Vai & Kris were also an integral part of both the planning process and the overall support behind the weekend. They played a significant role in hosting the events and were deeply involved in coordinating and organizing family details. Their guidance, generosity, and steady presence meant so much to us and helped make the entire celebration feel seamless and incredibly special. I was also so lucky to have 13 incredible bridesmaids who truly went above and beyond for me. I’m blessed with the most amazing group of women. We celebrated every chapter together — from a bridesmaid proposal brunch in Miami, to a bachelorette weekend in St. Barths, to a beautiful bridal shower in Palm Beach. It all felt like such a dream. I also couldn’t have done any of it without my husband, Neel. He was involved in every decision — every Zoom, every phone call, every appointment. We approached everything as a true team. A few months before the wedding, I was unexpectedly dealing with chronic migraines and was in and out of the hospital. During that time, he carried so much on his shoulders — managing wedding logistics while also taking care of me and making sure I got the medical support I needed. He showed up in every possible way. We even faced the very real possibility of having to postpone the wedding because of how unwell I was. It was a challenging chapter, but we got through it together. Looking back, it makes the fact that everything came together so beautifully even more meaningful. It truly was the best weekend of our lives.

What's one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don't think you'll ever forget. 

There are so many moments from that weekend that I’ll cherish forever. One that still gives me chills is our first look. The anticipation of Neel finally seeing me in my dress and veil — which I had kept a secret for over a year — was such an incredible thrill. I’ll also never forget the moment our officiant, Brandon, said, “You may now kiss the bride.” One of our favorite songs began playing, and we kissed and stood there jumping with pure joy as husband and wife for the very first time. It was surreal. 

Our first dance is another memory I’ll always hold close. We took lessons and practiced for months leading up to the wedding. Even during the time I was struggling with chronic migraines, I would put on an ice cap and still make sure we practiced together. We were so determined to make it special. When the moment came, we absolutely nailed it — and seeing everyone’s reactions made all the effort so worth it. And then there’s the memory I can laugh about now — though in the moment it felt slightly traumatic. Standing at the altar, my legs started quivering because my feet were in so much pain from walking around all day in brand-new Jimmy Choos. By the time I made it down the aisle, I was silently praying no one would notice my legs shaking! A little advice to future brides: you can’t even see your shoes under the dress — choose the comfortable heels. Trust me.

How did you decide on your hair and makeup look? 

I had known who would do my hair and makeup for years. My hairstylist, Keshia, is also a close friend and has been doing my hair for every big moment — birthdays, parties, and special events — long before I even met Neel. We used to talk about how one day she would style my hair for my wedding, so having her there felt incredibly full circle. Lindsay, my makeup artist, works alongside Keshia, and from the very first time she did my makeup, I didn’t feel the need to look any further. I knew she was the one. She is unbelievably talented, and I absolutely adore her energy — calm, confident, and so uplifting. For Friday night, I wore my hair down. I had grown it out intentionally and wanted to showcase the length with soft curls and delicate braids in the front to frame my face. My makeup was fresh and natural with no foundation — just a light, glowing base — and we added subtle hints of red and maroon on the eyes to complement the lehenga I wore that evening. For Saturday, I chose a classic updo — timeless and elegant — especially since our ceremony was outdoors. I wanted my hair completely off my face so I could be comfortable and fully present in the moment. My makeup was again very natural, with no foundation and the softest, most effortless eye look. It was important to me that I felt like myself — radiant, but never overdone or heavy.

Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about? 

There are two people I absolutely have to shout out. The first is my incredibly talented photographer — and one of my best friends from my hometown — Berkley McGaughey. We’ve known each other since middle school, and I watched her fall in love with photography in college. Fast forward to today, and she’s become one of the top wedding photographers in South Florida. Having her by my side throughout our wedding weekend felt like the most beautiful full-circle moment. Berkley is pure magic. She’s the ultimate hype girl — exactly the kind of energy you want surrounding you on your wedding day. She made everyone feel comfortable and confident, kept the atmosphere light and joyful, and somehow made us feel like we were in a Vogue editorial while still completely natural. She has such a gift for capturing candid moments, bringing out genuine laughter, and keeping the vibe positive and grounded, even when emotions are running high. 

I also have to highlight our incredible wedding planner, Jennifer Johnson. She is a true powerhouse, backed by an amazing team. She brought our vision to life in ways we couldn’t have even imagined. From start to finish, she was completely on top of every detail, allowing us to be fully present and never feel stressed. We truly could not have done it without her.

Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part? 

We haven’t gone on our honeymoon yet, but we’re planning several months of travel in the coming months — it’s going to be an incredible adventure! If you’d like to follow along on our journey, you can find me on Instagram and TikTok at @Mikaela.chary.

Backstage at Monique Lhuillier’s Runway Show

Take a peek at a little of the backstage magic at the latest Monique Lhuillier runway show. There was excitement in the air as the audience, including the Chic Parisien team, waited for the return to the runway for Monique Lhuillier. After many years forgoing the runway for smaller presentations, we were thrilled to return to the drama and the glamour of a runway show in an iconic New York City venue. It was classic Monique Lhuillier as we filed into the historic venue on the Upper East Side after a tea and finger sandwiches around the corner at Sant Ambroeus. There was a live pianist in the opulent space as we took our seats.

See the collection for yourself this weekend at our limited time only trunk show.

Real Bride Lissette in Emilia by Monique Lhuillier

Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal?

We met during the pandemic, November 2020. I was still in college in Colombia and he was living and working in Miami, but that month he traveled to Bogotá with some friends. We’re both from Santa Marta and share so many mutual friends, which makes it even crazier that we had never met or even heard about each other before (which in Santa Marta is almost impossible!).

We met at a party in Bogotá, and then in December we both went back home to Santa Marta for the holidays. We saw each other every single day for a month and immediately clicked. The only “problem”? We were both completely against long-distance relationships. But somehow, we decided we were worth the risk.

We did Santa Marta–Miami long distance for four years. We made it a priority to see each other almost every month, so we traveled a lot and became experts at airports and countdowns. It wasn’t always easy, but it made us so strong.

In December 2024, he proposed in Santa Marta on December 21st, the dreamiest surprise. We had talked about marriage and building a family, and I absolutely knew he was the one, but I thought the proposal was at least a year away. It was perfect, emotional, and so us, in the city where everything started.

When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision?

Honestly? I didn’t have a vision at all. At first, I wasn’t even sure I wanted a big party. But then I started thinking — when in my life would I ever have all of my friends and family and his, together in one place celebrating our love? That changed everything.

I initially wanted an all-green tropical wedding. And it ended up being the complete opposite! Halfway through planning (I decided to be my own wedding planner), I called my decorator and told him I wanted to change everything. Luckily, he didn’t kill me!

We pivoted to a classic, traditional all-white wedding with green and gold details. It felt timeless, elegant, and so special. In the end, it was far more beautiful than anything I could have imagined.

What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding?

The guest list was our biggest priority. In our culture, it’s very common to invite a lot of people — even if you’re not that close — just because of family connections. But we knew from the beginning we wanted only our closest friends and family there. That was non-negotiable.

And honestly, it made the night unforgettable. It felt intimate, safe, and so full of love. Everyone there truly mattered to us.

Another must? A coffee room. My husband’s family owns a coffee company, so we created a coffee lounge serving their coffee all night — espresso, carajillos, espresso martinis, and more. It was such a personal touch and definitely helped keep the party going until 8am (along with the tequila, of course).

How did you decide on the location?

It was actually very easy. In Santa Marta there are usually two main venues for big weddings, and one of them is outdoors. But October is rainy season, and I was terrified of planning for months just to stress about the weather.

Also, Santa Marta is HOT — it’s on the Caribbean coast of Colombia — and I knew I wanted air conditioning and zero weather anxiety. A beach wedding was never really an option for me.

That’s why Club Santa Marta was always our first choice. For a second we considered a destination wedding in Italy, but most venues had a maximum capacity of 180–200 guests… and Santiago has a huge family. So we quickly let that idea go.

At the end of the day, we’re both from Santa Marta. Getting married in the city where we were born and raised just felt right.

Let’s talk dress! Give us all the deets!

In March 2025, I came to Miami with my mom and sister and scheduled a full week of dress appointments. I had two options: buy a dress or have one custom-made by an amazing Colombian designer. My only fear with custom was that I tend to stress during the process and sometimes the final result isn’t exactly what I imagined. For my wedding, I didn’t want that pressure.

I saved Chic Parisien for last because I knew I would find something I liked there, but I never imagined what would happen.

When I got engaged, I randomly saw a bride on Instagram wearing a dress I fell in love with. I screenshot it without even knowing who the designer was. When I arrived at the store, I met Irina, she was incredible. She asked if I had inspiration, and I showed her the screenshot. She looked at it and said, “We have that exact dress here. It’s Monique Lhuillier.”

It felt like fate.

I tried it on the Emilia dress and instantly fell in love. I tried five or six more, but kept going back to that one. I wanted long sleeves, delicate lace, a long dramatic silhouette for the ceremony, a removable jacket for the party, and something comfortable enough to wear from 7pm to 8am (because Santa Marta weddings are no joke!).

I always knew I didn’t want a second dress. I wanted to enjoy one dress from beginning to end. Irina and I made a few small adjustments, chose the veil, and that was it. My dream Monique Lhuillier dress.

How did your family and friends play into your wedding planning and wedding day?

My mom and sister were everything. We did absolutely everything together — from decisions to details — and they were by my side the entire time.

My husband’s family took charge of the pre-wedding party and the church ceremony, so my mother-in-law was also a huge part of the planning. It truly felt like both families building this together.

And our friends? We had so many showers thrown by family and friends that they basically helped us set up our new home through all the gifts and love.

What’s one specific memory you’ll never forget?

Walking down the aisle.

The cathedral doors opened, the trumpets started playing, and I saw Santiago waiting at the end. I saw my school friends — some I’ve known since I was two years old — my siblings crying and smiling at the same time, my mom glowing with happiness, my dad holding me tightly as we walked.

The violins were playing live. I saw my new brothers and sister-in-law, my father-in-law. It was surreal.

After four years of long distance, we were finally there, getting married in the place where it all began.

Those few seconds walking toward him, and then holding his hand at the altar, that’s a feeling I’ll carry forever.

How did you decide on your hair and makeup look?

Hair was easy: a sleek bun. Classic, elegant, timeless — and the safest option for a wedding that lasts until 8am without ending up with messy hair halfway through the party.

Makeup was harder. For every elegant event, I usually do the same look — matte eyes and pink cheeks — but I didn’t want to look like I always do. I wanted something softer and different.

We chose a golden, glowy eye with peachy cheeks. It was such a change for me, but it ended up being my favorite makeup look ever.

And my makeup artist made the entire getting-ready process calm, fun, and special. Everything turned out exactly how I dreamed, and more.

Was there one vendor you wish everyone knew about?

My photographer, Jesús Rincón.

Photography was one of the most important things to me because I truly believe pictures are how you preserve memories. I have very specific taste when it comes to editing styles, so I was nervous about whether I would love my wedding photos.

From the moment we met Jesús, we clicked. He was warm, genuine, and you could tell he cared more about your memories than just closing a deal. He showed us countless examples, gave us so many options, and works alongside his wife — which we thought was so special.

On the wedding day, he was with me getting ready while his wife was with Santiago. It felt so organized and seamless.

It was hot, it rained a little, we were running behind schedule — and yet he kept us calm and laughing the entire time. The photos were beyond anything I ever imagined. If you have the chance to work with him, don’t think twice.

Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part?

We split our honeymoon into two parts: adventure and relaxation.

First, Japan — Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, and Hiroshima. We walked over 20,000 steps a day, ate everything, explored temples and cities, and immersed ourselves in a completely different culture.

Then we went to the Maldives to rest after a year of wedding planning and two intense weeks in Japan. There, we did absolutely nothing — massages, margaritas, Aperol spritz, lots of sleep, and just enjoying each other.

The best part wasn’t even the destinations. It was realizing that this is our forever. That we get to do life together from now on.

And… that we never have to plan a wedding again.

A Glimpse At Nicole + Felicia Fall/Winter 2026

The newest Nicole + Felicia collection is so good, so inspiring, so chic, that we had to drop the imagery here for you. If you’re searching for a wedding dress that is all drama and timeless elegance this could be where you fall in love with your dress. If one of these gowns catches your eye, you don’t want to wait to reserve an appointment for this weekend’s bridal trunk show, March 5 - 7 at Chic Parisien, the exclusive Nicole + Felicia retailer in Miami.

For now, here are some campaign images to swoon over and screenshot to show your private bridal stylist when you come in for your appointment.

Real Bride Talia in Josselyn by Ines Di Santo at her Wedding in Cartagena

Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal? 

Talia and Federico met in college at Florida State University, and shortly after their relationship began from long distance to living together in Miami. After six years together Federico proposed in the Bahamas, and they were engaged for one year before getting married in Cartagena, Colombia this January.

When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision? 

When we first started planning the wedding, I envisioned it felt like a fairytale, and the actual wedding surpassed that vision. The day felt like a dream, a fairytale… And it was perfect! Romantic, elegant, and filled with all the love and joy in the world.

What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding? 

Gratefully we were aligned in everything. We both always envisioned ourselves a church wedding, with everyone we love in one place— we also both wanted a big party! We were both very traditional in the fact that we did not want a first look and we didn’t see each other from the Night Before until the moment we met eyes walking down the aisle. 

How did you decide on the location? 

Federico, the groom, is Colombian— he was born in Colombia before moving to Miami, where now him and Talia, the bride, have lived together for 3+ years. Early on in our relationship we spent a month together in Cartagena and fell in love with the city— when we started looking at venues there was something special and nostalgic, as well as a nice cultural tie to Cartagena. It became a no brainer. 

Let's talk dress! Give us all the deets! 

Josselyn by Ines Di Santo was my Wedding Gown and it was a dream. When I was young I dressed up a princess all the time, but I’ve never felt more like a princess than I did on my wedding day in that gown. I knew it was the one from the moment I saw it, and it was fate as it was the only piece from the collection that arrived early at Chic (since I could not make the trunk show)— anyways Kati, my bridal stylist and I, decided to save her for last and from the moment I put that gown on I knew I would be getting married in it. 

How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day? 

We planned the wedding with the support of my parents, Thomas and Carol Bartelmo. We also worked with a local Cartagena Wedding Planner, Mary Cueter (@marycueterofficial on instagram), who made our dreams come to life. We’re forever grateful for the love, support and attention to detail that made that weekend such perfection. 

What's one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don't think you'll ever forget. 

The day lives vividly in my mind from the moment the the Cathedral doors opened, to 12 hours later closing out the dance floor with my best friend— and everything in between. But what lives on forever is the pure joy and love we both felt in our hearts that day— it radiates through every memory and every photo

How did you decide on your hair and makeup look? 

I was certain I wanted a natural look for my hair and make up. I am not someone who wears a lot of make up in general and wanted to feel like myself on that day. I was also fortunate to have 3 nights of events and 2  wedding days looks so I got to play around with the hair styles all weekend long. Our hair and make up artist was so great, and stayed with me for touch ups all night long— could not recommend Jesus Diaz enough (instagram: @jesusdiazz) 

Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about? 

Our Photography team, Amauris and Miguel at We Are Storytellers. They were incredible— we worked with Amauris back in June 2025 for our trial photoshoot and again all weekend long for our wedding in January 2026. The photos are INCREDIBLE (and we’ve only seen a generous preview so far), but more than that the energy they bring and the love and creativity they poor into what they do was unmatched. They travel around the globe— so no matter when or where your wedding will be they are the best team! (instagrams: @amaurisphoto @miguelphoto @weare_storytellers) 

Also our planner, Mary Cueter, was amazing. The way she and her team truly transformed each space was surreal and so stunning. She’s local to Cartagena, and does weddings all across Colombia. I could not recommend enough. (instagram: @marycueterofficial)

Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part? 

We immediately jetted off to our honeymoon the next morning in Guanacaste, Costa Rica at the Four Seasons on Peninsula Papagayo. The experience in this resort was unmatched. We had a plunge pool in our suite that we used daily, had private dining on the beach at Sunset, and truly got the relaxation we needed after the wedding weekend of our dreams. 

Chic Wedding Dress Try On: Floure Studio Chapter V

We welcomed Floure Studio to Chic Parisien and knew we had to see all these gorgeous new dresses on to fully appreciate them. Floure Studio was the talk of the bridal world at the last New York Bridal Fashion Week and we understand why. These chic new wedding dresses are handmade with the highest caliber of craftsmanship, while delivering totally on-trend and equally as timeless bridal style.

Here are six new Floure Studio gowns for you to fall in love with:

For more information about shopping Floure Studio in Miami, please email us.

Madelin’s Romantic Barcelona Wedding Wearing Mark Ingram

Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal?

We’ve actually known each other since high school. Never in a million years did I think the boy I started dating at 19 would be the man I’d marry, but when it’s right, you can’t deny it.
After years of growing together, he proposed in 2023 on the Amalfi Coast, and it was the most beautiful, full-circle moment.

When you started planning your wedding, what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision?

The moment I saw the castle in Barcelona, I knew it was my dream venue. Because the castle is a soft beige with gorgeous green trees surrounding it, I envisioned red florals and romantic red accents everywhere.
My wedding planning team understood the vision perfectly and exceeded every expectation. It was more magical than I ever imagined.

What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding?

Guest experience was our number-one priority. Our friends and family were traveling all the way from Miami to Barcelona, so great food and amazing music were non-negotiables. We wanted everyone to feel celebrated, comfortable, and immersed in the moment.

How did you decide on the location?

Ten years ago, we visited Barcelona together for the first time and instantly fell in love with the city. We kept returning over the years, and we always knew that if we ever got engaged, Barcelona would be the place we wanted to get married. It felt like home to us in a very special way.

Let's talk about dress! Give us all the deets!

I went wedding dress shopping with my mom, my sister, and my mother-in-law. I always knew I wanted something form-fitting and timeless, but I was torn between lace and a more minimal fabric.
Then I tried on the Mark Ingram gown, and it brought me to tears. It was the perfect balance of modern and classic. Once I put it on, I couldn’t picture myself in anything else.

How did your family, friends, etc., play into your wedding planning and wedding day?

Our family and friends mean the world to us. We had “table captains” at each table, each one handed a bottle of Clase Azul to get the party started—and it was a hit!
We wanted our guests to feel included, appreciated, and truly spoiled: heel stoppers for the ladies, sandals for the after-party, late-night bites… anything we could do to elevate their experience, we did. They’re our most loved people.

What's one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don't think you'll ever forget?

The first look with my dad is something I’ll carry with me forever. And my husband’s vows, he brought the entire ceremony to tears. Those moments are etched in my heart.

How did you decide on your hair and makeup look?

Since my dress was strapless, I knew I wanted my hair down. Fun fact: that is my natural long hair and hair color, no dye! We only added extensions for volume, not length. I spent years growing it out so I could wear it down on this day.
For makeup, I wanted something natural, glowing, and timeless.

Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about?

Yes, our videographer, Pixan Stories. He’s based in Barcelona but travels everywhere. He went above and beyond and captured our day with so much heart. We’re forever grateful.

Where are you going on your honeymoon and what are you most excited about?

Our honeymoon is set for September 2026! We’re traveling to South Africa, and we couldn’t be more excited. It will be the adventure of a lifetime and the perfect way to celebrate our new chapter.

Photos by https://www.estherrecuerda.com/

La Dolce Vita: Andrea’s Wedding in Rome

Tell us your love story. How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal?

I’m from El Salvador and my husband is from Panama. We met in Panama through mutual friends, in the most random way, at a party. We stayed in the “friends” zone for several years – always seeing each other in group plans, events and gatherings, but nothing more than that… yet.

During the pandemic everything changed because of an Instagram story. I posted a “healthy food” story with some peanut butter healthy brownies, and he replied saying how delicious they looked and that he also wanted to get super fit. The funny part is that now that I really know him, I can tell you he doesn’t even like peanuts – so those brownies were clearly just an excuse to start talking. That one DM turned into conversations, then daily messages, and eventually into something much deeper.

Four years after we first met, on our second trip to Japan, he planned the most perfect proposal. He knew how much I love Mount Fuji, so he took me to a famous park with an incredible view of Fuji, very early in the morning. At 8:30 a.m., with a photographer he had secretly hired, he got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife. It was quiet, emotional, and so us – just the two of us, Japan, and my favorite mountain in the background.

When did you start planning your wedding? What did you envision and how close was the reality to that vision?

I always dreamed of having a very close, intimate wedding – which, for us Latinos, is almost a mission impossible. My dads family is originally from the north of Italy, from a small town in Liguria called Zoagli, so Europe has always felt very special and very “home” in a different way.

When we started talking about the wedding, the idea of doing it in Italy made everything click: it was the perfect excuse to keep the guest list small and invite only the people who are truly close to us, while giving them the most beautiful experience possible. As soon as we started looking, everything began to fall into place for that dream: Rome, our date on November 3rd, 2025, the venues, and all the details that made it feel like a once-in-a-lifetime trip for everyone.

What I envisioned was an intimate, elegant celebration in Europe that felt like welcoming our loved ones into a little “casita” of ours, far from home but full of warmth. The reality was even better than what I had imagined – it stayed small, personal and emotional, exactly the way I always dreamed it would be.

What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding?

For us, the most important thing was that the wedding felt intimate and intentional. We’re both Latin, so our families are usually used to big weddings, but we really wanted a small, close celebration where we could actually talk to everyone, sit at the table with our friends and family, and be fully present.

We wanted:

• A meaningful ceremony where we could really look at each other and feel what was happening.

• Amazing food and wine (if you’re getting married in Italy, that’s non-negotiable!).

• Music that felt like us – a mix of Latin energy and classic songs that everyone could enjoy.

• Time built into the timeline to just breathe and enjoy Rome with our guests.

On the other hand, we weren’t too focused on strict traditions just “because that’s how it’s done.” If it didn’t feel like us, we didn’t force it. The day was about our story, not a checklist.

How did you decide on the location?

Italy has always been very special to me because my family is originally from the north of Italy, from a small town in Liguria called Zoagli. So when we started thinking about our wedding, Europe – and especially Italy – felt like the most natural place for our dream celebration.

Rome ended up being the perfect mix of everything we wanted: history, beauty, incredible food, and easy access for our guests traveling from Latin America and other parts of the world. When we found our venue in Rome, with its old-world elegance and that feeling of “this could only be in Italy,” we knew it was the one.

Even our church ended up being a little miracle. We had originally chosen a different church, but due to changes we had to switch… and everything aligned for us to get married at San Ignazio di Loyola, truly one of the most beautiful churches in the world. Walking down that aisle, under those frescoes, in the heart of Rome, felt like something that had been written for us long before we started planning.

It allowed us to give our guests a once-in-a-lifetime experience: a destination wedding in one of the most iconic cities in the world, but still intimate and very personal.

Let’s talk dress! Give us all the deets!

My dress was a Monique Lhuillier from Chic Parisien in Miami, and it was truly my dream gown.

I wanted something romantic, elegant and timeless – a dress that would make sense in a Roman palazzo, but also feel very “me.” With the team at Chic Parisien, I found the perfect Monique Lhuillier gown and then we created a little custom bolero to go with it. That bolero completely changed the look and made it feel even more unique and personal.

What I loved most was how the dress moved when I walked and how it photographed – soft, feminine and ethereal, but still with structure and presence. The whole experience at Chic Parisien was so special; they really listened to my vision and helped me build the exact bridal look I had in my head.

How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day?

Because we’re from El Salvador and Panama and getting married in Rome, our families and friends were a huge part of the process emotionally.

They supported the idea of a smaller destination wedding, which for Latin families is already a big thing! My family loved the connection to Italy and my roots, and his family was so excited to turn it into a big trip and experience.

During the planning, they were part of the conversations, the group chats, the dress photos, the “Should we choose this or that?” moments. On the actual wedding day, they brought all the energy and warmth – lots of happy tears, laughter, and that loud, joyful Latin vibe that somehow still fit perfectly inside a Roman palazzo.

What’s one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don’t think you’ll ever forget?

There’s a moment I will never forget: right before walking in, the doors opened and I saw him waiting for me in Rome, on November 3rd, 2025, surrounded by the people we love most. For a second everything went quiet in my head – no vendors, no logistics, no timeline – just him, my dress, and the feeling of “this is it, this is our moment.”

Another memory that’s engraved in my heart is when we finally sat down together at the table, looked around and realized:
“We actually did it. We brought everyone we love to Rome and this is our wedding.”
It felt surreal and so, so special.

How did you decide on your hair and makeup look?

I knew I wanted to look like myself, just the most polished, elevated version of me.

Because the dress and the setting were already very elegant, we decided to keep hair and makeup timeless and soft rather than trendy. I went for a classic, romantic look: luminous skin, soft definition on the eyes, nothing too heavy, and a fresh, glowy finish that would look beautiful in photos but also in person.

For hair, I wanted something that worked with the neckline of the dress and my bolero, and that made sense for a long day of hugging, dancing and walking through a historic venue. The idea was: if I see these photos in 20 years, I still want to love how I looked.

Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about?

Absolutely: our photographer, Rubén Parra.

He has a way of making you feel completely comfortable, like you’re just with a friend who happens to have a camera and incredible talent. He understood our story, our cultures, and the emotion behind doing such an intimate wedding so far from home.

The way he captured Rome, the light, the little in-between moments, the tears and laughter – it all feels like a movie, but still very real and very us. Looking at the photos, we can actually feel the day again. I would recommend him to any couple who wants emotional, elegant images that tell the full story.

One of my favorite parts was the time we spent with Rubén just walking and taking photos around the venue and nearby corners of Rome. It didn’t feel like a “photo shoot”; it felt like a little pause in the middle of the chaos where we could be together, laugh, breathe, and let the day sink in.

He gave us gentle direction but also let things happen naturally. Some of my favorite images are from those moments – when we forgot about the camera, and he was quietly capturing our reactions, our connection and the magic of being newlyweds in Rome.

Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part?

Right after the wedding, we did what we like to call our “pre-honeymoon” in Italy. We stayed and traveled around, exploring little towns, vineyards and beautiful countryside spots. After all the emotion and intensity of a destination wedding in Rome, it felt amazing to slow down, eat incredible food, drink good wine, and just be together with no strict schedule.

But our big honeymoon is actually planned for 2026: we’re going to China for a full month to disconnect and explore. The plan is to visit cities like Shanghai, Chengdu, Hong Kong and more – a long, slow trip where we can discover a completely different culture and create new memories as husband and wife.

The best part is that our honeymoon feels like it has two chapters: the romantic Italian pre-honeymoon right after the wedding, and then this big adventure in China that we’re already so excited about.

Andrea In Alexandra by Monique Lhuillier and Nicole + Felicia Mini at her Timeless Miami Wedding at the DuPont Building

Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal? 

Kyle and I met in law school, after I was his criminal law teaching assistant. We started dating after our professor said I would be crazy to ignore him. Our professor ended up being the one to officiate our wedding! 

When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision? 

My vision was based on the venue, the DuPont building. I knew I wanted something indoors because I hate being hot or uncomfortable at weddings. The DuPont building was the perfect place of unique and timeless elegance. Once we had the venue it inspired visions of Alice in wonderland and an enchanted garden. think the wedding nailed the vision as perfectly as I could’ve imagined. 

What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding? 

We wanted amazing food, fun and lively entertainment, and gorgeous florals. We didn’t want cheesy music, a boring ceremony, or an empty dance floor. 

How did you decide on the location? 

It was a very easy decision. Both Kyle and I love history and places that tell a story. The DuPont had everything we wanted and we lived that we would make it our own. The important aspect of the location was that we wanted it to serve as both the ceremony and the reception so our guests could have a seamless experience. 

Let's talk dress! Give us all the deets! 

I chose the Monique Lhulier Alexandra dress, with the nude lining and the turtleneck bolero. It was my dream dress and I everything I had always pictured. My second look was a mini from Nicole and Felicia, we made the side train detachable and added a wristlet so I could dance all night comfortably. 

How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day? 
My mom was my saving grace and helped me at every turn. We wanted to highlight family as much as possible, but my having our grandmothers be out flower girls. Additionally, my dad and my step dad walked me down the aisle. It was impartant to us to honor both of them. 

What's one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don't think you'll ever forget. 

Crowd surfing with the band! 

How did you decide on your hair and makeup look? 

I trusted my makeup artist to do whatever she thought looked best, and I honestly just let her have free range because she is so good at what she does. My hair stylist is equally as talented. I knew I wanted an up-do to show off the turtleneck bolero detail of my dress, and I loved how a loose romantic bun looked- but didn’t want it to be too messy or have hair in my face. They both understood my vision and executed better than I could’ve dreamed. 

Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about? 

Yes, we hired a fashion illustrator named Ksenia Illustrations. She created hand drawn watercolor illustrations of our guests and it was such a whimsical and chic touch, as I have always been obsessed with fashion and design. 

Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part?
We took a “mini” moon to Vermont, and the best part was the hot air balloon ride we took to see the beautiful fall foliage. 

Photos by KGOHHSNAP

#realchicbride Alejandra wears a Berta Muse Gown at her Wedding in the Dominican Republic

How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal? 

It’s a bit of an unconventional love story as Tito (Argelio Malagon) and I met on Hinge, we had our first date at Don Shula’s tennis courts and the rest was history! We’ve been inseparable ever since. 

The proposal occurred in Bar Harbour, Maine. It was a complete surprise! We had been hiking for hours until he found a spot with gorgeous views of the ocean and the mountains behind. Had I known I was getting proposed to I would’ve fixed my hair or worn white! It was very private and it is one of our most cherished moments. We can’t wait to return with our children. 

When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision? 

The vision changed so much! At first I was going for a French garden theme but as we moved the venue to a more private location, we wanted a more timeless look. 

Three months before as we moved the location from the Eden Roc’s garden to the Mediterranean private area. 

What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding? 

The food to us was very important! We sat down with the main chef at the Eden Roc and created a customized menu for our guests. 

We did not include a ton of flowers as candles and candlelight gave a more romantic energy. 

How did you decide on the location? 

The first vacation together was to Dominican Republic so we knew we had to bring our friends and family to our favorite place, the Eden Roc in Cap Cana, DR. 

Let's talk dress! Give us all the deets! 

The girls at Chic Parisien helped me pick out the most beautiful Muse by Berta dress (Penelope by Muse by Berta) which we paired with a Monique Lhuillier bolero! It was timeless and absolutely perfect. 

How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day? 

They were everything! Without them there would be no celebration. Their support and presence really cemented our friendships and family relationships, especially since so many of them traveled to spend time with us! 

What's one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don't think you'll ever forget. 

Our vows! Very untraditionally we said our vows the morning before our wedding in private at our villa. We smiled, we cried, we laughed, and we spent the little time we had together before the craziness began! 

How did you decide on your hair and makeup look? 

Vestel, from Makeup Pro Punta Cana chose the perfect natural look for me. She’s the sweetest and knew exactly the look I was going for. Tina worked tirelessly to get the hair just right, a bun for the ceremony and half up half down for the party! 

Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about? 

My photographers, Boyko Studio and wedding planner Luiciana from BePine Events. After so many meetings and Pinterest boards, they really captured my vision. 

Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part? 

We spent at our honeymoon at the St. Regis in Florence and then at Il Borro, the Ferragamo estate in Tuscany. It was the perfect cozy honeymoon to end the year! 

#realchicbride Zenaida in Berta Privée at her Italian Wedding

Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal? 

We met in college while working at the FIU Recreation Center and quickly became close friends, always secretly drawn to each other but never admitting it for nearly two years. When we finally did, beginning our relationship felt like the most natural thing in the world. Our lives and families blended seamlessly, and we knew right away that we were meant to be. Years later, after countless adventures, on a beautiful day in Phuket, Thailand, David got down on one knee. It was the most magical and unexpected surprise, completely taking me off guard in the best way possible.

When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision? 

We always envisioned an intimate celebration surrounded by the people dearest to us, a wedding that radiated love and felt like an unforgettable escape. We wanted it to feel both personal and romantic, in a destination that would take everyone’s breath away. Our wedding in Lake Garda, Italy was everything we dreamed of and more. Though we were only 47 guests in total, every moment felt grand, filled with emotion, beauty, and an overwhelming sense of love.

What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding? 

We wanted our guests’ experience to be extraordinary! Something they would never forget. Every detail was intentional, from the surprise element to the smallest personal touches. We took a playful risk and didn’t tell our guests the location ahead of time, only giving them a meeting point for the morning of the wedding. From there, boats whisked them away across the lake to our stunning venue, Isola del Garda. As a couple who loves to host and surprise our guests, hearing their gasps and excitement as they arrived was one of our favorite moments. We also made sure to include our aussie, Cherry, who couldn’t be there in person. Her spirit was woven into the day, from custom napkins to her signature cocktail, the Aperol Spritz ("Cherry's Choice” for the night!).

How did you decide on the location? 

We visited Lake Garda a few years before getting engaged and instantly fell in love. It felt like a hidden gem- serene, romantic, and still under the radar, for the most part. Over the years, it became our secret escape, and when David proposed, we knew immediately that this was where we wanted to begin our forever. Sharing this special place with our loved ones felt like the perfect full-circle moment.

Let's talk dress! Give us all the deets! 

I’m still obsessed with my dress!! I wish I could wear it all the time haha. I had several appointments lined up, convinced I’d need to see so many dresses before finding the one. Chic Parisien was my first stop, and after trying on about eight dresses, I remember thinking, “This is going to be impossible, they’re all so beautiful.” Then a few dresses later came the dress — my dress. The moment I looked in the mirror, I envisioned myself walking down the aisle in it and started crying. It sounds cliché, but when you know, you truly know. I bought my stunning Berta Privée gown on the spot and canceled every other appointment without hesitation.

How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day? 

Keeping our wedding location a secret, even from our moms, was one of the hardest (and most fun!) parts of planning. We wanted the entire day to feel like a shared adventure, and it truly was. Our family and friends were the heart of our celebration; their energy and love made every moment unforgettable. They embraced every surprise, every emotion, and every bit of joy with us. We couldn’t have asked for a more incredible group of people to celebrate our love story with.

What's one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don't think you'll ever forget. 

There are so many unforgettable moments, it is really really hard to pick just one. So I'll mention two. The first that stands out vividly is our boat ride to the reception at La Torre di San Marco. Just as we crossed the lake, our captain turned around, mouthed “three, two, one,” and suddenly, we hit a wall of rain! Instead of ruining anything, it felt cinematic, almost magical. As the Italians say, “Sposa bagnata, sposa fortunata” meaning a wet bride is a lucky bride. And I truly felt that in that moment. And of course, I have to mention one of the most unforgettable moments of the night, standing hand in hand with my new husband, surrounded by everyone we love, as “A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay played and fireworks lit up the sky above us. It was pure magic and truly one of the best moments of my life.

How did you decide on your hair and makeup look? 

I wanted my look to mirror the essence of our wedding, timeless, romantic, and effortlessly elegant. My gown had such a classic beauty that I paired it with soft Hollywood waves, nothing too polished or structured. When we transitioned to an updo later in the evening, we left loose, cascading waves to keep it natural and dreamy. For makeup, I chose soft, glowing tones with a deeper nude lip, my favorite look for something sophisticated yet understated. My makeup artist, @belaya_lyudmila, completely understood the vision.

Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about? 

This is such an impossible question because every single one of our vendors went above and beyond! But if I had to name a few, our dream team included:

• Wedding Planner: @weddings_at_lake_garda

• Photographer: @martailardo_photos

• Videographer: @dk_wedding_film

• Hair & Makeup Artist: @belaya_lyudmila

• Roaming Band: @thebrotherrockers

• Florals: @lisatorelliflowers 

• DJ: @rallo_official – who kept the party going long after it was supposed to end! 

Each one played such an integral role in bringing our vision to life, and we’ll forever be grateful for them.

Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part? 

Since we were already in Europe, we kicked things off with a “buddy moon” in Mykonos alongside a few close friends and family, then continued island-hopping through Greece for our mini-moon. Milos absolutely stole our hearts! The turquoise water and tranquility were unforgettable. We’re still dreaming about it and can’t wait for our full honeymoon soon, back to Thailand, the place that marked the beginning of our forever!

New Arrival: Primrose by Leah Da Gloria

Real Bride Nicole in Mark Ingram at her Wedding in Coconut Grove

Nicole wore a Mark Ingram dress she purchased at Chic Parisien for her wedding day in Miami. We chatted with her about her journey to the aisle, her love story, and all the wedding planning details that went behind this jaw-dropping Ritz Carlton Coconut Grove wedding—wait until you see the florals…

Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal?

Our lives have always been intertwined even before we realized it. Our parents went to college together, and we have countless photos of us as toddlers. We lost touch during our childhood and teenage years, but fate brought us back to the same place: the University of Florida. Even then, we didn’t connect. It took a DM from Mitchell to spark a short fling, which eventually turned into something much bigger. Three years later, we started officially dating in 2023, and from that moment, we never looked back.

Once we were together, life became an adventure. We spent every month traveling, celebrating birthdays, holidays, and family trips—checking so many things off our bucket list. It always felt right, like this was forever. Mitchell moved from Fort Lauderdale to Miami, and shortly after, he asked my parents for their blessing. He planned the perfect proposal during my birthday weekend in Miami, surrounded by our immediate family, followed by an incredible Italian dinner at Il Gabbiano.

When you started planning your wedding, what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision?

As an interior designer by trade, I always envisioned a classic and timeless design. The architecture of the venue was a top priority for me. I immediately dove into Pinterest for inspiration, and the end result exceeded even my highest expectations. We spent countless hours discussing the big picture and the tiniest details, and it all came together perfectly. When I walked into the room, I couldn’t find a single thing I would have changed. For me, the small details matter even more than the big ones—the branding, the personal touches—those are what truly tie everything together.

What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding?

For us, it was all about the details. We wanted our personalities to shine through in every element of the wedding and for our guests to feel special every step of the way. From welcome bags at the hotel and a signature welcome drink to custom photos on our espresso martinis, every detail mattered.

How did you decide on the location?

From the start, I knew I wanted a hotel venue so our friends and family could stay together and make it a full weekend celebration. Architecture was key—I wanted a space that highlighted old Miami design and was located in a walkable neighborhood full of charm. The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove checked every box. I loved how intimate the hotel felt, making it seem like the entire property was part of our wedding.

Let’s talk dress! Give us all the deets!

Chic Parisien was my first stop in the dress search. I had done some research beforehand but hadn’t found a style that truly spoke to me. When I started trying on dresses, I was drawn to lace, sparkle, and a dropped waist—but my sister convinced me to try one style outside my comfort zone. The moment I put on the Jacqueline Mark Ingram dress, I immediately teared up and so did everyone in the room. People always say, “You just know when it’s your dress,” and I felt that in my soul.

How did your family and friends play into your wedding planning and wedding day?

Family and friends mean everything to me, and I couldn’t have planned this wedding without them. My mom and sister were absolutely instrumental. My sister is also getting married just three months after me, so planning together was such a unique and fun experience. My mom was truly my right hand she joined every call, listened to every stressful rant, and shared my passion for making this the most incredible weekend ever. I can’t thank her enough for her attention to detail and unwavering support.

What’s one specific memory from your wedding day that you’ll never forget?

It’s impossible to pick just one, so I have to share two. First, the morning of getting ready with all my girls (and a few guys!) it was pure fun: glam time, music, funny videos, and soaking in the excitement. Second, signing the Ketubah and marriage license with our immediate family and witnesses. That intimate moment of officially becoming married, surrounded by those who matter most, was unforgettable.

How did you decide on your hair and makeup look?

I’m a glam girl at heart, so I knew early on I wanted a full glam look. Hair was harder, I had several trials because I couldn’t decide. After hours on Pinterest, I settled on a half-up, curled style with lots of volume for a romantic vibe. My makeup was glamorous but not over the top just enough to make me feel my most beautiful.

Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about?

All of my vendors were incredible, and I truly believe they made our wedding a success. One I wish more people knew about is the bridal valet service. We used ANV Bridal Valet Inc., and I cannot recommend them enough. From steaming gowns and sewing suits to making sure I had water and everything in between they were lifesavers for me, my bridal party, and our loved ones.

Where did you go on your honeymoon, and what was the best part?

We did a “mini-moon” in Cancun, Mexico, at the Banyan Tree and it was amazing. The service, food, and accommodations were unbelievable. The best part? Our villa on a lagoon with its own jacuzzi and pool. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable week. We’re already counting down to our full honeymoon in Europe next summer!

Planner: Melissa Davis Designs 

Photo: PS Photograph and Films

Makeup: TT Beauty Haus

Decor: Ines Naftali Event Production

Video: Senderey Video Productions

Dress: Chic Parisien, Mark Ingram

Invitations: Invitorium

Bridal Valet: ANV Bridal Valet

Band: Tropics Entertainment, Libido 

Content: Content BFF

Venue: Ritz Coconut Grove

New York Bridal Fashion Week Photo Diary from Chic Parisien

Fresh from New York Bridal Fashion Week, we’re still coming down from the stylish whirlwind of a few days in the Big Apple to see the newest wedding gowns from our bridal designers. It’s our immense privilege to travel to NYBFW to get an up close look at new gowns before they start their travels for trunk shows around the world, eventually visiting our Coral Gables bridal boutique. During an action packed few days, we visit all the designers who are showing new gowns this season (some designers chose to show one collection per year instead of two) with either intimate appointments, fashion shows, or both.

This season, Spring 2026, team Chic Parisien started our mornings with energy-focused breakfasts at Dirty French (yogurt and granola or smoked salmon for extra protein!) with lots of coffee, of course, before we hit the town to make all our appointments and runway shows.

We caught a runway show from Nicole + Felicia, Monique Lhuillier, Ines Di Santo, and Floure Studios, plus a cocktail party with Kyha Bride and a packed presentation from Berta. We saw Leah Da Gloria in a sun drenched space, Reem Acra in her jewel box studio, Marmar Halim’s gorgeous gowns up close.

Here is a little photo diary from Kendall’s (head buyer at Chic Parisien) camera roll.

The Chic Ballgown Edit: Bridal Ballgowns for 2026 and 2027 Brides

The bridal ballgown of your dreams awaits at Chic Parisien. We’re self-admitted ballgown addicts. Who can blame us? When else do you have the opportunity to go as big and dramatic as your heart desires? Say yes to a ballgown for your wedding day from our edit of chic designers including Ines Di Santo, Leah Da Gloria, Nicole + Felicia, Berta, Monique Lhuillier and more.

• Leah Da Gloria Clementine

• Nicole + Felicia NF103

• Ines Di Santo Calder

• Monique Lhuillier Zuma

• Berta 25-114

Chic Edit: Monique Lhuillier Spring 2026 Collection

We have an edit of gowns from the new Monique Lhuillier Spring 2026 collection in store at Chic Parisien bridal boutique in Miami for a limited time only. Shop these gowns including:

• Avalon by Monique Lhuillier

• Brentwood by Monique Lhuillier

• Laurel by Monique Lhuillier

• Le Doux by Monique Lhuillier

• Zuma by Monique Lhuillier

These wedding dresses will only be here for a few more days in anticipation of Bridal Fashion Week in NYC where we will preview the new collection.

New Arrival: Zuma by Monique Lhuillier