STYLED SHOOT | A Carolinas Christmas Inspired Wedding

Set in the tranquility of a North Carolina Christmas tree farm during the golden hour of sunset, this shoot is the epitome of a perfect Christmas in the Carolinas. The vast number of pine and fir trees created a picturesque backdrop for both the decorated table and the beautiful bride. The dark, southern farm table was adorned with classic Christmas garlands that included poinsettia flowers, red berries, and sparkling pine cones, along with a variety of candles to set the mood for a quaint, romantic table. Accompanying the decor were varying pieces of red, green, and gold china and glassware that brought an elegant formality to the table. Finally, two sweetheart chairs, embellished with "Mr." and "Mrs." embroidery, were placed at the table, making it the perfect setup for a couple in love.

The bride, Lauren, in true southern belle fashion, started out in a romantic Watters ball gown with an illusion sweetheart neckline and just a hint of glamour. Lace and subtle sequins covered the bodice, while flowing ivory tulle draped the skirt. She accented the gown with a simple, curled hairstyle, red lipstick, and pearl earrings, along with a small bouquet of a single red rose, arranged with poinsettia flowers, pine cones, and greenery. To escape the winter chill, Lauren wrapped in a cozy blanket scarf, while showcasing her flawless, solitaire diamond ring. She then changed into a second gown, a crystal-covered Casablanca A-line with a sweetheart neckline, to add a little extra flair to the fairytale setting. The day ended with the sunset, leaving everyone even more excited about Christmas in the Carolinas.

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Cedar Lake Tree Farm, Iron Station, NC | Venue
Southernly Studios | Photography
Fairytale Pursuits | Wedding Coordinator
JW Floral DesignWatters | Ball Grown Designer
Casablanca | A-Line Dress Designer
The Lily Rose | Bridal Salon
Evermore Event Company | Rentals

The Bridal Boutique | Custom Guest Book by Paper Lux Stationery

Sponsored with love, by Paper Lux Stationery

Simply and classy, these guest books from Paper Lux Stationery are just perfect for a traditional guest book or a guest book alternative. Have your guests glue their photobooth photostrips inside alongside a message or ask your family and friends keep it traditional and write some sweet advice or date night ideas for the bride and groom.

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3 Things in 3 Years of Marriage | From His Perspective

Written with love, by Karley Kiker

It was so important to me that in my book, Hitched in a Hurry, the wedding was never referred to as "the bride's day." True, Taylor wasn't quite as involved in the detail selection process (see: table linens and floral arrangements), but that shouldn't have relegated him to the role of co-star in the movie titled Karley's Big Day.

Our wedding day was also the first day of our life together as teammates, and thinking about that fact helped me keep my eyes on the prize throughout the planning process: a marriage built to last rather than an event that's over in 24 hours. I included a chapter written by Taylor in my book, and his perspective is every bit as important to me today. That’s why I'm turning today's column over to him! I love and value his point of view and I think you'll find it eye-opening, too. So without further ado, here are three things my husband has to say about our first three(ish) years of marriage! 

Q: What have you learned in the last three years?

"I have learned in marriage to be less selfish and to take my wife into consideration when planning activities. I can't just make decisions based on myself and what I want. (I mean I can, but it wouldn't be a good thing.) I've also grown in my ability to be vulnerable and I'm learning to use words to describe how I feel. Early in our marriage my instinct was to shut down if I got frustrated, but that didn't lead to things getting fixed."

Q: What do you enjoy about marriage?

"One of the best things about marriage is that I have a lover and a best friend always with me. I have someone around constantly who knows me—good, bad, and ugly—and still loves me anyway. My wife is strong in areas where I'm weak, and vice versa."

Q: What would you tell a single guy considering proposing marriage?

"It's kind of funny but I would say don't rush into it, and at the same time, if you know she's the one then don't wait. Do not just get married because you've been in a relationship for a long time. Marriage demands self-sacrifice and compromise. It will be tough for a lot of guys because you go from doing whatever you want, whenever you want, however you want, with as much accountability as you want, to (if you want a good marriage) making 99% of decisions together."