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Jessie & Dan – The Resort at Longboat Key Club

A beautiful fall evening was the backdrop for Jess & Dan's wedding. With a classic white look on all aspects of the day, and a majestic sunset it truly was magical. Their family and guests traveled from all around, and enjoyed coming together in an intimate reception to celebrate the couple. With a surprise dance from the bridesmaids and moms to kick off the night, we knew it was going to be an amazing time. We can't express how much fun it was working with the couple and their family during the planning process. Congratulations again to Jess & Dan, may your future together be as beautiful as your sunset was! Venue: The Resort at Longboat Key Club | Photographer: Beth Joy Photography | Videogapher: Samantha Schubert | Officiant: Grace Felice | Rentals: US TENT & Linens by the Sea | Cake: Cakes by Ron | DJ: DeLair Entertainment | Florist: Sue Ellen's Floral Boutique | Hair & Makeup: Brides by Kelly Anne

By |2020-12-04T12:33:40-05:00December 4th, 2020|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Jessie & Dan – The Resort at Longboat Key Club
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McKenna & Kyle – The Resort at Longboat Key Club

The month of October can be a gamble with Mother Nature as it's towards the end of hurricane season. On McKenna & Kyle's big day it rained on and off all day, and the clouds did not go away. That did not stop them from having their beach ceremony and getting these GORGEOUS pictures. With the amazing vendor team working together last minute and prepped the final details as the last bit of rain fell, it came together wonderfully. An afternoon and evening for their friends and family to remember (including their dog).  The ceremony was on the beach joined by their dog. Afterwards, they went to the beautiful ballroom afterwards to eat, drink and dance the night away. Congratulations again to McKenna & Kyle! Venue: The Resort at Longboat Key Club | Photographer: Alisa Sue | Videographer: Artistry Films | Officiant: Wes Morris | Rentals: Linens by the Sea & US TENT | Entertainment: Sound Society | Cake: Cakes by Ron | Florals: Flowers by Fudgie | Transportation: Siesta Trolley | Hair & Makeup: Eyes on You  

By |2020-12-04T11:57:29-05:00December 4th, 2020|Weddings|Comments Off on McKenna & Kyle – The Resort at Longboat Key Club
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Caroline & Christopher – Powel Crosley

A glorious day in October made for a perfect setting at the beautiful Powel Crosley Estate in Sarasota, FL. Caroline & Christopher said their vows and prayers for their new marriage at St. Thomas More Church and then went to celebrate with friends and family after. The beautiful arrangements were traditional whites and greens, with satin champagne linens adding gold and black pops made an elegant and classic styled look. Friends and family gathered around the lounge furniture, and shared dance moves on the loggia throughout the night. Making the evening one to remember by all. Thank you to all vendors that made their day special! Venues: St. Thomas More Church & Powel Crosley Estate | Rentals: Palacios Events/US TENT & Linens by the Sea | Florist: Sue Ellens Floral Boutique | Photography & Videography: Chi Photography | Caterer: Puff N Stuff | Entertainment: No Filter | Cake & Desserts: Cakes by Ron | Hair & Makeup: Ana Molinari Salon

By |2020-12-04T11:25:55-05:00December 4th, 2020|Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Caroline & Christopher – Powel Crosley
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David & Toni – Lido Beach Resort Wedding

We love when a couple intertwines cultural traditions as part of their wedding ceremony. This beautiful ceremony was held at the Longboat Key Club Resort and was filled with holy traditions. Toni & David began with personal vows to each other. This then led to a foot-washing ceremony, and the jumping of the broom. Instead of the traditional floral bouquets and boutonnieres, Toni had chosen feathered fans for her girls and matching masks for all. The Reception to follow was held at Lido Beach Resort in the glorious renovated ballroom. The blue colors in the ballroom, naturally made the purple and gold pop with mood lighting all around.  Congratulations again Toni & David! Thank you again to all the vendors that made this day possible and beautiful. Photography/Videography/DJ: Celebrations of Tampa Bay | Cake/Desserts: Cakes by Ron | Centerpieces/Florals: Oneco Florist |  

By |2020-12-04T11:15:13-05:00November 25th, 2020|Weddings|Comments Off on David & Toni – Lido Beach Resort Wedding
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Silk or Fresh Flowers – Which Way To Go?!

One of the most popular items to decorate events for, are flowers. However, the real question is do you prefer silk/faux flowers over real flowers? Traditionally, fresh flowers were the go-to option. They look beautiful and smell delightful. Both items are truly stunning if done correctly, and bought from a proper wholesaler/store. Some key factors to help make a decision that is best fit for your event can be found below in our helpful blog post! Budding Budgets Real flowers can get quite expensive depending on the intricacy and set up needed. Some brides may spend anywhere from $2200 - $6000 on florals for their special day. Depending on where you get your silk flowers from (do your research) it may look just as real as fresh flowers but at half the cost. Having the option to order silk flowers months in advance may help with your budgeting needs throughout your planning process. Another option, is looking into "renting" a bouquet or centerpieces. There are several wedding stores where you can browse bridal bouquets & centerpieces made from silk flowers and choose the one which you would like. The store will then simply pack the flowers and ship them to you. You of course would need to ship back the next day or two after your wedding. Fresh Flowers Silk Flowers Allergy/Season Friendly Silk flowers are usually the safest way if someone is hypoallergenic to certain types of florals and greens.  You can still create the same look but without worrying about a bridesmaid sneezing all night or breaking out into hives. All though real flowers are extra special and beautiful some may not be available during the month/months leading up [...]

By |2020-07-31T16:18:30-04:00July 31st, 2020|Centerpiece Ideas, Floral|Comments Off on Silk or Fresh Flowers – Which Way To Go?!
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Some Important Tools for a Successful Outdoor Event

Many ceremonies and receptions here in Florida, can be found on a beach, a barn, or a botanical garden. With several outdoor venues, and days of beautiful weather (most of the time),  it's hard to not dream about an outdoor wedding. Being creative and smart is our specialty here at Swanky! Today, we are happy to share some helpful tips and suggestions to ensure a 100% stress free outdoor event.   Tip #1 The importance of having a generator and lighting for any out door space is a MUST HAVE. You're party will most likely still be going on when the sun sets. A generator makes it possible for cafe or twinkle lighting in any outdoor space to illuminate the party for hours. A generator is also helpful for your vendors like your caterer, dj or band. Make sure there is enough amps for all the necessary services! Lighting can be for a specific purpose, or to set the mood for a wonderful evening. In the cooler months, having an outdoor fire place lounge area is a great option to produce light and heat!   Tip #2 Ensuring a solid space for dancing and music. Renting a dance floor is helpful for any lawn or beach events. Solid flooring may help prevent anyone tripping or spraining an ankle. Many djs and bands require staging if it's an outdoor space. If their equipment gets sandy, or wet from damp grass or dirt you may find yourself eating the bill to fix or replace. Make sure you're on the same page with your outdoor venue and entertainment so all of their needs are met. This will avoid any last minute stress the day of when [...]

By |2020-07-30T13:19:11-04:00July 30th, 2020|#FunFactFriday|Comments Off on Some Important Tools for a Successful Outdoor Event
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Summer Wedding Planning = Hurricane Season Planning

Here at Swanky, we know that summer wedding planning can be difficult. Even though it's technically the "off season" in Florida, it's the "on season" for inclement weather. July, August, and September are months with high heat and humidity resulting in possible hurricanes coming through our area. You can still have an amazing summer wedding, all you need is a solid back up plan in place. Here are some helpful hints and pointers for our summer brides !   1. You Can't Control Mother Nature Mother Nature is mostly filled with sunshine here in Florida. However, just like any woman she is unpredictable and intense sometimes. The more couples understand and accept that you cannot control the weather ( and neither can your planners) creating a back up plan is the best move to make. One week before your wedding is the best time to evaluate the weather and if you need a PLAN B in action. 2. Assess the Situation & Contracts If the storm is approaching and you're unsure ,talk to your vendors! Your venue and planners will be the first people to tell you if this is something manageable or not. Together with your vendors, you should be able to come up with a solid PLAN B for the wedding weekend. Also, creating a guest hotline or phone tree can save you the headache of 100 phone calls that weekend. A mass email/ text or wedding website announcement may be the easiest option in getting the word out for any updates. However, making the call sooner rather than later will give your guests time to prepare and make alternative travel arrangements. Waiting until the last minute to call the wedding [...]

By |2020-07-30T12:17:55-04:00July 30th, 2020|Weddings|Comments Off on Summer Wedding Planning = Hurricane Season Planning
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Wedding Dress Shopping Etiquette

For any bride to be it's important that you feel confident and beautiful in a gown to say " I DO" in. Especially, when you are probably paying a pretty penny for. However, wedding dress shopping is a process, and isn't quite like going to your local TJ Maxx, Marshalls, or Macy's. Most bridal boutique shops have procedures with these expensive gowns. Here are some helpful tips and advice from the pros to give you a good head start in your dress shopping.   Making an Appointment We would suggest that almost 99.9%  of wedding dress shops, require an appointment. As much as it's YOUR special day and special gown, there are several other brides that are doing the same thing. By making an appointment, you get one on one help with a dress consultant. A consultant will help you choose dresses that fit your style and need, and also be with you the entire time for any questions or concerns that may arise. Come prepared with pictures you've found online, or you've added on your Pinterest Board. Also, pictures of what you DON'T like may help your consultant sort through the racks faster. Also by making an appointment, make sure you ARRIVE ON TIME and END ON TIME. Don't be late, as it will cut down your search and also eat into another bride's time. If you aren't familiar with the shop, make sure you get directions ahead of time, or get familiar with that area if there isn't a lot of parking available. As much as you want to try on different wedding dresses, you have to use your time wisely. Also remember: You do not have to find The Perfect Dress on [...]

By |2020-07-07T14:03:03-04:00July 7th, 2020|#FunFactFriday, Weddings|Comments Off on Wedding Dress Shopping Etiquette
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Destination Weddings – Tips & Tricks Couples Should Know

We work with many destination couples, and traveling is hard enough,  but so is making important decisions from a far. Therefore, we are here to help and give you some advice on stress free planning!  There are several factors involved in a destination wedding. Make sure these factors won't effect you and your guests before you decide to book. Research Your Destination Space Researching your location is super important! Down here in the Sarasota area we know it's already beautiful! The wedding industry is BOOMING with several amazing vendors. However, there are things we may not be able to control, for instance the weather. Researching when the hurricane season is important in any location! Are there any safety, accessibility, or health issues that could be a deal-breaker? Sharing information about health, safety, travel, and political issues with your guests can effect their attendance. It's a little bit of extra leg work—but it shows guests that you care about their well-being. It also avoids awkwardness during your wedding weekend. Creating Your Guest List Your Guest List is one of the main factors that will result in choosing the perfect location or not. Satisfying every guest will be near impossible, but the "Grandma Test" usually helps in making that right decision. For instance,  is there wheelchair accessibility or on-site childcare at your location? Can your guests travel on plane, ferry, or car with ease to this location? In Conclusion, this attention to detail will show your guests your genuine hospitality. If you're planning to get married during a high point in the tourism season, it could be crowded or potentially congested. This also results in higher priced air fare, hotel, and travel expenses.     [...]

By |2020-07-01T14:43:42-04:00July 1st, 2020|#FunFactFriday, Weddings|Comments Off on Destination Weddings – Tips & Tricks Couples Should Know
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Micro Weddings – A Mini Celebration

What Is a Micro Wedding? A micro wedding is exactly what it sounds like! A small affair, typically with no more than 50 guests. Still include time-honored traditions that make a wedding but on a much smaller scale. A ceremony, a dinner, and if you want some dancing, all can be done! Why You Should Have One! Planning a wedding has a lot of moving pieces to it—and an equally huge investment. Weddings these days average well over $30,000, depending on the guest count. Attendees may be dropping slowly, but most couples still celebrate with nearly 150 of their friends and family members. Currently, with social distancing guidelines you can have up to 50% capacity. You're lucky if your venue can host that many guests. Making jokes about eloping may actually turn into a reality, or you can decide to have a micro wedding. Skip going down to the courthouse and don't miss on a chance to do something special! Get your marriage license, hire an officiant, and invite your true few. Then get married in a place that is unique, and different for a small wedding. With fewer guests comes less work, less people to please, less money spent, and more options in terms of spaces to celebrate! Whether it's in a back yard at a unique Air B&B, or a remote island off the inter coastal, your dreams can unfold of creating a beautiful wedding. If you decide on a simpler location like a public park, beach, or even a bar you can still create a mesmerizing space for your 20-40 guests. Adding pipe and drape, or lights, or specialty furniture can make a space feel more magical and special for your [...]

By |2020-07-01T13:26:45-04:00July 1st, 2020|Weddings|Comments Off on Micro Weddings – A Mini Celebration
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Drive-By Celebrations: Best Way To Have An Event While Social Distancing!

What is a "drive - by celebration"? Drive by celebrations are the best way to host an event while social distancing. During quarantine, "Social distancing" is being practiced everywhere, therefore a lot of events are being canceled or postponed. However, we have noticed the people are strong and have found new ways to celebrate. Showing their loved ones how much they are truly cherished by driving by. YES, just driving by. Folks have been putting together "parades" of family members and friends all in their cars. Together, in a line of cars they will drive by their loved ones house, giving them a moment of celebratory cheers and laughter for whatever special day it is. Baby showers, birthdays and anniversaries alike, can still be celebrated for your loved ones. Hosting a Pand-epic Event! Each car can play a theme song for the event or person they are specifically driving by for. What's a party and parade without music? Making banners to hang from your car as you drive by can add a touch of color and fun to a parade. Lawn decor or signs for your friends and family driving by, is the best way to make sure they have the right house! In front lawn you can set up a grab and go cookie/cupcake table. Favor tables for baby showers, or your favorite snack to share with guests as they drive by is a great way to show appreciation.  Just be sure they are aware it's there of course! If you know guests will be dropping off cards/gifts set up a basket or table in the beginning of the driveway. Keeping a parade moving full of honking cars may be best! Getting Organized: Simple [...]

By |2020-05-04T14:13:34-04:00May 4th, 2020|Themed Parties|Comments Off on Drive-By Celebrations: Best Way To Have An Event While Social Distancing!
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Swanky Mixes Southwestern & Bohemian

Styled Shoot Spotlight: We are so happy to share that Green Wedding Shoes has featured one of our styled shoots! It's no secret that Swanky Soiree loves to do our styled shoots! We love the boho trend and we decided to mix it up with style and location. The plans to have another styled shoot unfolded with a simple message from the owners at Glamorass Ranch and we couldn't say no! They bring a special service known as, "beer burros". To clarify, it's adorable Donkey's serving beers to your guest! Within a couples weeks vendors were on board (which wasn't hard - because duh, donkeys!) and brought it to life. EVERYTHING about this shoot, was so different than what you tend to see in the Gulf Coast region of Florida. It had a very Southwestern look with large aloe vera plants as a beautiful backdrop at Palma Sola Botonical Park. Adding the pampas grass and cacti to the vibe, the arch piece and bridal bouquet from Ivy & Vine tied it together amazingly. Everence Photography captured the charming donkeys (and couple of course) with the southwestern boho flare stunningly. Swanky Soiree had the pleasure to style with So Staged Event Designs to complete our tablescape look. As always, the styled shoots are done to create inspiration and mix ideas up for a non-traditional look. Together as vendors, artists, and designers our creative partnerships bloom into a scene of styled happiness. Behind the Scenes: When vendors do styled shoots we all hope it gets "published" or "featured" in a popular blog or website. Here is a few snippets of all vendors in action! From left to right: Kristen working hard in the [...]

By |2020-04-20T13:49:54-04:00May 1st, 2020|Rentals, Table Decor, Trending, Weddings|Comments Off on Swanky Mixes Southwestern & Bohemian
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Swanky Spotlight: Our Team!

During the COVID-19 pandemic there is a large pause in the event industry for this Spring Season. There are many people that help make Swanky Soiree successful. These people are behind the scenes or on the front-lines and we want to shine our light on them! Swanky Soiree's New Home First let's start with with how much this past year has grown in the Swanky world. We grew from two storage units, a personal garage, and home office to an established building. Our new home is an office front space with a warehouse unit close to downtown Sarasota. There are several hands that helped create an environment that is cozy for our clients, and organized for our team! We are still always making updates and adding to our inventory, the photos below were of the process making it home. You will just have to swing by and see the new look :) Swanky Sweat Club Warehouse days are important before and after our events, we give a lot of time, sweat, and attention to our inventory. Our decor items receive extra love by cleaning, spray painting, organizing, condensing and of course storing proper fragile items when needed. We are thankful when social events let us be creative and mix some of our in house items with brand new items! With newer pieces we always try to set things up prior to event day. You never know if there is a piece missing or it takes longer time to set up than we thought! Videos: Ashley Vs. Wysteria Wreaths & Ashley Staining the Arch These pictures and videos only capture a fraction of time and effort we put in the care and [...]

By |2020-04-21T14:52:49-04:00April 28th, 2020|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Swanky Spotlight: Our Team!
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Swanky Spotlight – Sims Wedding

Swanky Soiree is happy to share one of our ninja's got married in February. Congratulations Nate & Allie! How they Met Nate and Allie met through chance. It was July of 2011, she was in college in Maryland, and Nate had just moved from Rochester, New York to accept a new job opportunity in Orlando, Florida. After arriving in Florida, Nate went on Craigslist to look for a place to live. He found a lake house near downtown Orlando, where he met his new roommate, Ashley ( also a Swanky Girl). Ashley was Allie's first roommate in college and one of her best friends. During Allie's winter break, She came down to visit Ashley for two weeks. Nate will say, Allie walked through the doors and it was love at first sight.   How he Asked  The day Nate asked, it was the Friday of Memorial Day weekend. They both were out of work early to visit Nates family at their beach house on Siesta Key. We were greeted with hugs and drinks, and told the plan was to go to a family friend’s club house, to have a BBQ, since the weather was so bad.We hopped in the car and off we went! As we walked in the door I was surprised to see my entire family, who still lives in Maryland. I immediately ran to them and started hugging. All I heard next was my sister yelling, “Turn around!!!” I turned around and there was Nate, on his knee, with the most beautiful ring. So surrounded by both my parents, sisters, brother, best friends, and Nate’s parents, sisters, brothers, and niece and nephew, everyone we love, I SAID YES! We popped champagne and [...]

By |2020-07-30T10:50:17-04:00April 23rd, 2020|Color, Donuts, Floral, Party Decor, Table Decor, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Swanky Spotlight – Sims Wedding
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5 top Cheapest & Most Convenient Wedding Destinations

With the whole world at your fingers there are so many places to get married. These are the top 5 Best Places to Get Married in the U.S. Number one destination is Orlando Las Vegas El Paso Atlanta, GA Miami, FL

By |2020-03-05T14:01:09-05:00April 16th, 2020|Weddings|Comments Off on 5 top Cheapest & Most Convenient Wedding Destinations
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Paws-itively Cute Pet Wedding Ideas

Much like your future partner your pet is always there for you. That's why we've rounded up some of our favorite pet wedding ideas that will pay homage to your best furry friend during your special day. Believe it or not, there are lots of ways to do so. Please see below: Have your pet accompany you down the aisle or act as your ring bearer or flower girl. If that's not enough for you, some brides have even "asked" their pets to be their bridesmaids or maid of honor and stand with them tall and proud at the altar. Now depending on where you're having your event, they may not allow pets. If that's the case, there are still plenty of memorable dog wedding ideas that will honor your four-legged friend:   Incorporate them in table numbers, place cards, or other stationery. Send your guests home with "doggie bags" either of candy for them or we have even seen actual dog biscuits for your guest furry friends! Signature Drinks are a great way to incorporate your furry friend! With so many dog wedding ideas to choose from, you may just end up including all of them, and we fully support that!

By |2020-03-05T13:34:10-05:00April 9th, 2020|Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Paws-itively Cute Pet Wedding Ideas
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COVID-19- Swanky Tips on postponing your wedding!

COVID-19 Coronavirus Wedding and Event Planning It’s no secret the COVID-19 coronavirus  crisis has disrupted the wedding and tourism industry, especially in Florida. Postponing your wedding is better than outright canceling. According to the CDC, they have recommended all weddings should be “cancelled” for the next 8 weeks (mid-May)! You've planned everything for months on end and now it all comes to a stop. But, it doesn't have to!  There is constant information and news updated every day. Here are some helpful tips for wedding postponement due to coronavirus   No matter your situation, it's important to remember to keep calm—and carry on. COMMUNICATION IS KEY EVERYONE is being effected by COVID-19. First, chat with your vendors! Make sure they outline their policies about postponements and cancellations with you. MOST vendors understand these hard times and will work with you. As planners, we want this to happen for you.  Couples deserve to celebrate! Are you thinking about canceling out right? Keep in mind, some vendors may not give you your deposit back. Usually it's per their contract, and also helps their business going. However, the rest of your balance could possibly be refunded on a case by case basis. The best thing to do is POSTPONE your event and make sure all your payments transfer to the new date. MOST IMPORTANTLY make sure your vendors are AVAILABLE for the new date. Its more likely, vendors are available on a Sunday or during the week. Be patient as the event industry has been hit hard and many vendors are on a limited work schedule or furloughed until further notice. Let your guests know a head of time! Add a short blurb about your new postponement date/or [...]

By |2020-04-08T13:03:04-04:00April 8th, 2020|Sarasota, Weddings|Comments Off on COVID-19- Swanky Tips on postponing your wedding!
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Going Green Weddings! We Love it!

Going green doesn't mean you have to compromise on your big day! Your wedding day can still be  truly personal, moving, and sustainable celebration that people will remember for years. You may even open a few eyes in the process...Check out a couple ways you can Go Green on your big day without having to compromise your dream wedding day ideas!   Source locally Almost anything can be found locally! Food and drinks are a great place to start. If there's a good brewery down the road use that beer instead. Using unnecessary resources trucking in a keg of bud light from who knows where! 2.This goes for caters too! Not only are you helping the earth but your guest are going to be impressed and the food will be so fresh! 3.Source Local flowers in season- These flowers will not have to travel far from home to make your day beautiful   4.The perfect eco-invites-  Do your research and if you don't want to send out an E-invite which is the most eco friendly you can always use recycled, handmade, or tree-free invitations

By |2020-03-05T12:42:17-05:00March 26th, 2020|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Going Green Weddings! We Love it!
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Non-Traditional Wedding Dress? Maybe it’s for you!

White wedding dresses are classic, but they're far from the only option. Nowadays brides are getting more and more creative, opting for wedding dress styles and shades that are as one-of-a-kind as they are. Non-white hues bring vibrancy, personality, and intrigue to any wedding, and are great for the bride who wants to stand out. Let's start out with the the idea of a white dress with some pizzazz and new styles! Second we move into  flowers for all the happy feelz... Now lets get dark and romantic... N0w for the grand finally! We give you COLOR and SPARKLE!

By |2020-03-05T12:07:15-05:00March 19th, 2020|Trending, Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Non-Traditional Wedding Dress? Maybe it’s for you!
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