Congratulations to Mandisa & Godfrey on their marriage at The Smithville Inn on August 12th, 2022! Their wedding was magical and romantic! As the warm sun was setting on their skin through the floor to ceiling windows, they danced the night away surrounded by family and friends from both near and far.

Mandi and Godfrey chose to get ready in The Barn at Smithville. The decorations are rustic and really match the entire vibe of their Romantic Smithville Inn Wedding. They were both surrounded by their favorite people, and they helped them with everything they needed in order for both of their days to be perfect. When Mandi put her gown on, it was simply perfection. She looked radiant! Godfrey was in his room, getting his finishing touches and the anticipation was brewing! He could not wait to see his beautiful bride.

The ceremony was fantastic and everyone was so excited to see them both. When Godfrey saw Mandisa walk down the aisle with her father, it was very emotional. You could feel the love when they read each other their vows, and their first kiss was nothing short of romantic.

Surrounded by close friends and family, it was only natural that they had to have multiple toasts, song, and dance for their reception! They danced the night away and Mandi even had a dress change to get more relaxed as the night went on.

Congratulations again to the happy couple! I wish you both all of the love, luck and happiness for your marriage!

“I got married at Smithville Inn August 2022. Lauren did an amazing Job! She went above and beyond! The organization and her beautiful personality helped me and my husband to feel so comfortable and relaxed!! The memories she took was breathtaking! I am so happy I chose Bokeh Love Photography to capture such a great moment in my life… Lauren Thank you so much!!! We highly recommend Lauren!!!” – Mandisa , Review from The Knot

Are you planning your Romantic Smithville Inn Wedding? We would LOVE to be there to capture all of your beautiful memories! Reach out today to schedule a free consultation to see if we are a good match for each other!

Lauren Adams
Bokeh Love Photography
www.bokehlovephotography.com

Check out some recent blogs: 
Top 10 Wedding Venues in Atlantic County
Beach Wedding at the Grand Hotel 
Ocean City NJ Beach Session

I am going to share with you all my Top 10 Wedding Registries! There are so many aspects that go along with planning your wedding. As a matter of fact, planning your registry is one of those things that just happens to be A LOT OF FUN! Did you know that you should actually have 2-4 registries? Always have at least one bigger store, and preferably one that is online, then two of your favorite little boutique stores. I am going to share my favorite 10 registries and maybe throw in some other fun things in the list that are great gift options as well! Enjoy the list and make sure you follow me on facebook, instagram and twitter! Don’t be afraid to strike up a friendly conversation about what registries YOU think are best!

Top 10 Wedding Registries:

1. Amazon Wedding Registry – Amazon is an amazing website where you can purchase practically anything you want. The amazon registry actually allows you to purchase ANYTHING you find on the internet. You can install a button on your browser, and literally add anything you find on the internet (on Amazon or not on Amazon) to your registry! This is why it is my number 1 favorite registry! You can also have things delivered directly to you, or to the person purchasing the gift, and you can even request gift wrapped option – which Amazon puts the purchased item into a beautiful, and reusable organza tie bag! It’s stylish and will leave the gift recipient super impressed! Click here to check it out!

   

2. Zola Wedding Registry – Zola just had to make it to my Top 10 Wedding Registries list! It is an amazing wedding registry that is clean and very organized! You can add gifts, gift cards, and honeymoon funds in one place!  It features coupon codes to save your guests money which is very nice! It also features the same internet button for your browser that Amazon does, allowing you to add virtually anything you find on the internet. What I really love about Zola is that there is free shipping (almost, some of the bigger stuff will require shipping) AND you get 20% off on the things that were not purchased. You can also do group gifting AND you will get a free thank you note manager! I’d call that a win! Click here to check it out! 

   

3. Blueprint Registry – This is a different one. The coolest feature about Blueprint is that you can “picture the items in your room”. It’s really great, if you’re registering for furniture or other big items. You can select to have up to 50 or more retailers for your registry as well, which keeps your guests on the registry without having to go shopping somewhere else. Also, and you may love this or hate this, on Blueprint you can ask your guests to help chip in on certain parts of your wedding, for example if you want an ice cream truck at the end of the party, you can ask for that. You can allow group gifts, as well as cash gift options if that’s more your speed. I will heed some caution here though, because it may not fit in well with some of your guests. Click here to check out Blueprint and click here to read my post that includes a book on Wedding Etiquette.

   

4. Honeyfund Registry – Lately, we have seen a lot of couples getting married who have already been living together and already have everything they need to live, cook, and fill their home. So “things” are really the last thing on their mind. Instead of buying them “stuff” that they don’t need, some couples are opting for cash gifts to go toward their honeymoon. There is nothing wrong with this, but some guests may want to gift you a physical gift instead. It’s alright to have a registry like this, but keep in mind having another registry will be a good idea. For the other registry, you can put down things like a tv, or new golf clubs for both of you. Things that will help you come together, and spend more time together, instead of a new pot set. Click here to check it out!

   

5. Jonathan Adler Wedding Registry – If you are looking for something seriously unique and upscale, this is the registry for you. From golds to deep navy’s with American modern flair, this registry has everything you’ve ever dreamed of and it won’t kill your guests pockets! This made my Top 10 Wedding Registries because I simple adore all of the little gold accepts and I am a true lover of art. From vases to fine art, to chairs and beds, gorgeous luxury rugs and spectacular lighting, you don’t want to let this registry pass you by. Check it out here! 

   

6. Sue Fisher King Wedding Registry – Do you appreciate the finer things in life? The birds chirping on a spring day? Do you notice the little details of a simple white bowl and just swoon over its beauty? Do you admire a gorgeous painting on a dish? This is luxury. If this is you, just register here:  Check it out here! 

   

7. Domino’s Wedding Registry – LOL okay, hear me out. This is hilarious, and I love every piece of it. Do you have everything you could have ever dreamed of and you really just want to Netflix and Chill? Get this registry, and have pizza for LIFE, okay maybe not for life, but like, all the time! I bet your guests will love how fun and honest you are about your love for pizza. Check it out here! 

   

8. Slowdance – This is a registry where Event Planner, Jung Lee has her team of designers create a registry based on your needs and wants. It is not a one sized fit all registry. This is the registry that will open your eyes to independent designers from all over the world. Instead of everyday items, and you will be guided on how to incorporate these speciality items into your home! Check it out here!

   

9. The Little Market – If you are a conscious shopper, and you are away of the difference between big stores and little stores, then you should consider this registry. Brought to you by Lauren Conrad, everything purchased from The Little Market helps create a meaningful income for their artisans partners and their families. Some items you will find on this registry, are ceramic kitchen bowls, hand blown glass pitchers, utensils, glassware, linens, pillows, furniture, you can even get custom totes for your eco friendly shopping trips. In addition to the housewares, you can also add spa products and candles to your registry as well! It feels good to help others and have a little piece of something special and handmade just for you in your home. Check it out here!

   

10. Thankful Registry – Thankful allows you to create a very sleek, beautiful and clean registry where you can put absolutely anything on. What I mean by that is, any item from any store, any vacation, any experience and even any charity that you would like a donation for. They are open platform and all inclusive. They also accept any currency, so if you have family or friends from other countries, they won’t have any issue purchasing from your registry. What is really cool about this registry, is that if your guests find an item for less somewhere else, they can purchase it elsewhere and it still comes off of your registry! It’s very cool, and super thoughtful! Wait a minute, maybe that is a hint at their name? We are super thankful that they’re so thoughtful! How neat! It does cost a one time fee of $30 but it is a very beautiful and easy to use platform. No ads or anything to distract your guests or you. It’s a very nice experience to shop on. Check it out here!So that’s it for my Top 10 Wedding Registries! I hope you enjoyed my list, although it won’t be for everyone. I hope it had you thinking out side of the box to what kind of registry’s really are out there! And if you found one you really like, then yey! I am SO glad I was able to help you with a little part of your wedding planning! After all, I LIVE for weddings!

 

We talked about my Top 10 Wedding Registries, so here are some really good gift ideas: 

1. Amazon Prime Subscription – This may be a little bit of a stretch, but did you know you can give the gift of Amazon Prime? It may sound silly, but starting your life together as a husband and wife, you will need to do a lot of shopping for your home. Shopping on Amazon Prime is a great way to save money, and not actually waste gas or time to go to a store and get side tracked on what you really need. Amazon Prime is a yearly subscription, so giving the gift of Prime, will actually save the newly wed a nice chunk of money and allow them to have a very nice in home shopping experience! This would be a very well thought out gift. So think about adding this to your registry! I bet someone will be overjoyed to give this as a gift! Click here to check it out! 
2. Sur le table – Did you know that Sur le table offers cooking classes? How totally cool is this? You can give the gift of cooking to the newly wed and they can both learn how to cook amazing dinners and spend time with one another and really enjoy this new special time in their lives becoming a married couple! Even though Sur Le Table didn’t make it to my Top 10 Wedding Registries, I still absolutely adore them.  Click here to check it out!
3. Blue Apron – To go along with Sur le table, did you know you can order everything you need to cook at home, and there is no subscription necessary? That means you can buy 1 box, and it will be delivered to them with instructions on how to prep their food at home with each-other? There is nothing more delightful than sharing the cooking with your partner. Click here to check it out! 
4. Peek – Peek is  a website where you can purchase experiences, much like these other on the list only they are in so many different states and counties! If you know where the happy couple is going on their honeymoon, or even want to give them a special treat before or after their wedding, then this is the gift to give! Swimming with the pigs in the Bahamas, exploring a waterfall in the DR, or maybe an R- Rated Vampire tour in Philly! The possibilities are endless and you will sure to be able to find something that matches their speed! Check it out here! 

 

Wedding planning can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be! I have compiled my favorite wedding planning books for you to take a look at. They go over things like wedding etiquette, timelines on when to send out invitations, book your vendors, and more! Check it out below!

1. 1. Emily Post’s Wedding Etiquette – Emily Post was a phenomenal woman, who knew about all things etiquette. If you’re going to learn about it, she is the one to learn from! This is an amazing book that will go over everything you need to do or plan from your engagement up until your wedding day. It goes over engagement announcements, how to word invitations, what to wear and when to wear it, traditions, parties, your ceremony, reception and even the thank you’s and so much more.**Also, if you’re interested in history, Emily Post is the 19th cousin 2 times removed to Charles William Post, Founder of Post Cereals, and also, the person who my college was named after – C. W. Post University, now known as Long Island University!
   2. Erin Condren Wedding Planner – I adore Erin Condren. Her agenda’s are LIFE and her wedding planning books are so much more than than just a planner! It comes with custom stickers that say “I DO” “CELEBRATE” “IMPORTANT” and “REMINDER”. Throughout the planner, you will also see quotes that will light you up! I save these and frame them on my walls! It also had both the calendar view and the weekly view, and enough space for you to write notes, mark dates, make note of your rehearsal meal AND reception meals, the types of alcohol you will be having, a wedding planning timeline to follow etc.
   3. OH, SH*T JUST GOT REAL – Okay, sometimes wedding’s are so stressful that you just need to open up and let that humor fly in. This planner does an amazing job at having making you giggle, but the inside is all business! A ton of spreadsheets at your fingertips to fill in like mad libs! Because let’s be real, who doesn’t love filling in mad libs? You can write your ideas for theme, venue, colors, music, reception, etc. You can also fill in categories with budget, actual cost, and balance owed. It even has a wedding contact list for your vendors (Only thing I dislike is they don’t have Photographer written in… so you’ll have to write photographer in yourself. I recommend a pink sparkly gel pen so I stand out, because of course you’re booking me, right? :::wink wink::: ) But seriously, this is a cute planner and does the job if you’re too busy to make your own spreadsheets. it even has a ton of pages for your guest list, and blank lined pages for you to write all the notes your heart desires!
   4. Essentials Wedding Planner Stickers – Yes, I added stickers to the list haha. The reason why, is because sometimes you just want to play with stickers. You’re planning a wedding, and these are wedding themed! So yes, buy them, and have fun, because you’re allowed to have fun and these little things make us smile and ALSO, really do help stay organized! 
   5. Storied Weddings – This book is absolutely gorgeous. If you want to be swept away with emotions, and what kind of images you could have on your wedding day, then this is the book for you. Actually, if your child is getting married, if you aren’t getting married, or if you know someone who is getting married and just love weddings, then this is also the book for you. It looks nice on the coffee table, and had the content to blow anyone away between great typography and dreamy images, ya know and fabulous tips to help you on your way to planning your big day! 
   6. Wedding Planner & Journal Organizer – I know I have quite a few planners on here, but I am hoping you find one that meets your needs. This one is really special. It is not only beautiful, but it comes with 20 labels to propose to your wedding party, two wedding day cards for you and your fiance to write each other love notes (complete with envelopes), and even a guestbook section. It works as a nice gift and a keepsake of your wedding day. There is even a page about dresses and the cut of each neckline (sweetheart, scoop, illusion, off shoulder) and the skirt style as well (trumpet, a-line, tea-length, mermaid). 
   7. Equally Wed – There are so many books out there for planning weddings that are centered around the “bride and groom”. This book, of course has the to-do lists that every engaged couple needs, in addition to very important resources on how to handle certain challenges that an LGBTQ+- couple may face, like how to deal with less than supportive family members. 
   8. His & Her Vow Book – This is a very simple his & her vow book for your wedding day. These photograph so nicely, and it’s a lot better than holding a folded piece of paper. They are wonderful memories to look back on, and will easily slip right into your nightstand to re-read over and over again the words your husband/wife read to your on wedding day. 
   9. 3 Pc Rose Gold Diamond Pens – With so many things to write down, you should probably enjoy writing with this fancy diamond pen! Yes, there is a huge diamond on the end of the pen! I actually own these, and I’ve been married since 2013. No shame here, I love them! 
   10. A Great Party – One of the wedding planning books that you need to read, is this one right here! Bryan Rafanelli has been voted one of the best wedding planners in the world, by Vogue. He’s planned tons of events and weddings for high profile clients and is known for throwing parties that you will never forget! (Including Chelsea Clinton’s wedding and many events for President Obama!) Even if you don’t was a huge party, you will definitely pick up one or two things (or 10 or 20) from this book!

 

I hope you enjoyed this week’s Top Ten Tuesday – ‘Wedding Planning Books’. Subscribe to our mailing list and be sure to come back every Tuesday for more amazing Top Ten’s!

 

*Some of the links in this post are Amazon affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

 

Planning a wedding in 2021? The game has seriously changed! I have compiled an amazing list of Wedding planning tips for 2021 to help you get started or continue planning your wedding with ease! This is a list of MY personal favorite sites, stores and blogs; from publishers and companies like Harpers Bazaar, Ceci NY, Figgie Shoes, or the Mrs Box and The Black Tux!

If I could plan my wedding all over again, I totally would do so many things differently. This list is compiled of all of my favorite things. I hope you love it, as much as I do and I hope it helps you to plan your dream wedding!

SO HERE IT IS! The BLP Top 10: Wedding Planning Tips for 2021

1. Ceci NY: Invitations – I have been following Ceci NY since they first emerged around 2006. I absolutely loved how they were a small startup invitation company who incorporated letterpress into their workflow. They create absolutely beautiful designs, and are now a huge name in the wedding industry based on out New York. A female owned and operated business also makes me adore them! Check them out here, and make sure your invitations are show stoppers! You won’t be disappointed! CeciNewYork.com *Also, you can order a sample pack here: Sample Pack
   

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2. The Black Tux: Grooms Attire – Let me first start off by saying that this company is the best rental service for men’s wedding day attire that I have ever seen. I have photographed many grooms, and their details, and this one is the best! When I walk in and see a Black Tux box waiting for me, I know it’s going to be an amazing day! I have also partnered with them, so of course I love them, but I would not have partnered with a company that I didn’t absolutely love. If you want to have the very best service, reach out to them via this email, tell them that Lauren from Bokeh Love Photography sent you, let them know your wedding date and they will take amazing care of you! Concierge@theblacktux.com Also, feel free to browse their site! TheBlackTux.com
   

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3. The Mrs. Box: Details– Let’s talk about heirlooms, or as their website says, “Modern Heirlooms”. These little boxes are more than just boxes. They will set the mood of your wedding day. Your rings being photographed in these beauties while you’re getting ready. It’s a photographers dream! You can get them in 44 different colors. They’re velvety perfection will just melt in your hand! Imagine the detail shots! You will want to frame these images all over your walls! TheMrsBox.com
   

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4. Figgie Shoes: Attire – I have been in love with these shoes from the first time I laid eyes on them. As an artist myself, I can really appreciate these. They aren’t just shoes, they’re a work of art! Brides always want their shoes to be a statement, and this is for sure the best statement because they will be custom designed to match exactly what you are looking for! FiggieShoes.com
   

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5. Riley & Gray: Wedding Websites – If you are looking to have a wedding website, but don’t quite fit in with the boring templates that those chain wedding websites have to offer, then check out Riley & Gray. You can design a free wedding website, but you can also purchase a plan as well. They have wedding websites for design-forward couples. “Enjoy an editorial experience with limited-edition wedding website templates created by the same digital tastemakers from brands like the New York Times, Marie Claire, Glossier, and Condé Nast.” Whatever you want, Riley & Gray can do for you. RileyGrey.com
   

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6. Nearly Newlywed: Brides Attire – If you want a designer wedding dress, but don’t feel like spending full price on your gown, there is no shame is getting a previously owned gown. Wedding dresses are only worn once, cleaned and preserved. Sometimes, you may not want to keep it, or really just want to recoup what you’ve spent. Nearly Newlywed is an amazing site that allows you to both sell and purchase wedding gowns at a percent of the price that was originally spent. Check them out to see what they offer, and maybe you’ll be listing your dress here as well! nearlynewlywed.com
   

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7. Bazaar Bride: Planning Resource – An exclusive membership brought to you by Harpers Bazaar, for the newly engaged. It is the most fashionable bride resource on the internet. You will find wedding inspiration & advice, discounts up to $25,000 in savings, 1 on 1 consultations, video series with Vera Wang, and more! Bazaar Bride Membership
   

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8. BHLDN:Bride Attire– A dress boutique by Anthropologie that offers absolutely stunning bridal gowns, bridesmaid/bridal party dresses, mother of the bride dresses, shoes & accessories, decor, gifts and more! These dresses are reasonably priced, unique and absolutely stunning! Check them out: bhldn.com
   

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9. The Modern Bride: Delicate Details – If you are looking for beautiful, and delicate jewelry to adorn your skin on the most amazing day of your life, then take a look at The Modern Bride. In addition to jewelry, they also offer lingerie, belts, and more. I would stay clear of trying to purchase a dress here though because they are based in Canada, and unless you want to go on a road trip, this may be a pretty far drive for a dress. tmodernbride.com
   

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10. Etsy: Wellness Favors – Right now, Wellness Favors are trending on Etsy for custom bath soaps, bath salts, candles, oils and more. Not only are they a great thank you gift that can actually be used and isn’t clutter, it’s also super cute and thoughtful. Check out this page to see some really nice bath salt favors in glass jars: Etsy Bath Salts
    

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I hope you enjoyed this week’s Top Ten Tuesday – ‘Wedding planning tips for 2021’. Subscribe to my mailing list and be sure to come back every Tuesday for more amazing Top Ten’s!

*Some of the links in this post are Amazon affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

 

When my daughter told me she wanted Birthday Portraits at the Smithville Mansion for her 8th birthday my heart stopped. Okay, not really but I was not ready for her to grow up and ask for such a grown up gift.

My little princess was growing up. For her birthday, she wanted to be followed around by a professional photographer while wearing a gorgeous dress and high heels. Good thing her Mama Bear is a professional photographer. I was honored to be able to photographer her, and make her laugh, of course I was crying behind the camera.

We really did have a lot of fun though. I am happy that I was able to make this birthday wish of hers come true. She is definitely a girl who knows what she wants! I couldn’t be more proud.

The Smithville Mansion is gorgeous.

It really is one of my favorite places to visit because it is historic and so well maintained. It’s perfectly set up for weddings, events and engagements. Additionally, the casual photo session with a soon to be 8 year old!

If you would like to have your son or daughters Birthday Portraits at the Smithville Mansion, reach out to me today and schedule your session! Or if you are recently engaged or going to propose; this is certainly a wonderful place to do it! I would honored to document these memories for you!

Photography for me, isn’t just about holding a camera and taking a photo. I have a serious passion for photography. Images are my life. A day without my camera is like a day without air. I can not breathe without it. A camera is always on my side, always with me, and ready for any moment that will happen. When I get the opportunity to photograph something special in someone life, I am very humbled and honored. Being chosen to be the person that you trust to capture and create these moments for you, its such a great feeling.

As for my daughter, she put all of her trust into me, that I would be able to document her Birthday Portraits at the Smithville Mansion exactly the way she always dreamt of and better. That is how everyone should think when they hire a professional. Dreams become real life, and real life can be preserved. These pieces are our history, they are our legacy, and one day our children will hang on to these memories, and pass them down to their own. Don’t just pass these moments by, hold them by the hand, and allow me to capture your legacy.