SIMPLY WED: Sarah + Joe

There is a ton that can be said about Sarah + Joe's wedding. Sarah is one of our best friends, and we met her when she first moved down to Savannah to be with Joe who was stationed at Hunter Army Airfield. Having friends that own a bridal shop is convenient , so she went shopping for her wedding dress with us! She ended up picking a classic trumpet gown by Nicole Miller that was perfect. Simple, clean and classic. After a few alterations, it fit her perfectly. She added a sash and hair comb for the perfect amount of sparkle. 

She completely trusted us in planning, and let us pick most of the details! She wanted purple, so made sure to incorporate purple into her linens and flowers. We have a huge selection of glass and spray painted bottles, so we used those with greenery foraged from around Savannah. Nicole wanted to have something be a surprise, so she wrote out their love story on various frames, and placed it on the head table, spelling out their story of how they met. They wanted their wedding to be focused on fun and family, so we had various tables set up at Brockington Hall, with cocktail tables so people could mingle all night. They had a jam + biscuit bar for cocktail hour, with their signature drink being Moscow Mules. Instead of traditional catering, they had local favorite Zunzi's do a buffet, which was a HUGE hit! Everyone loved the food! Instead of a cake, they had donuts, with army men scattered on them, and a guitar and plane as their cake topper. Sarah is a local musician, so she made her playlist for the night, and had friends sing the ceremony music. The night was filled with so much love and laughter. Her father was the officiant, and made everyone tear up during the ceremony, and especially during their first dance (where he sang to her as they danced!) Their wedding was a dream, and everything was so beautiful, and so perfect for Sarah and Joe. We are so lucky to have been apart of it, and to have such a great group of friends!

{Vendor Credits} Planning, Flowers and Gown by Ivory + Beau // Gown is Dakota by Nicole Miller, Hairpiece by Twigs + Honey, both available at Ivory + Beau // Photography by Alexis Sweet Photography // Venue Brockington Hall // Food from Zunzi's // Biscuits and Donuts from Bakers Pride // Rentals by Amazing Event Rentals // Hair and Makeup by Michelle Royal // Filmography by I Thee Films

SIMPLY INSPIRATION: Glitzy Garden + Nicole Miller

If you love sparkle, but want a gown with movement, then we recommend Millie by Nicole Miller! She is a crinkle chiffon gown, with v neck and back, covered in beading and rhinestones. She is soft and flowing, but still has great detail. Millie is apart of our Summer Sample Sale, and we have a size 10 in almost perfect condition! Also, during the months of June + July, when you buy your gown you will get a free preservation kit! P.S. This amazing shot by Laura Fulmer is part of our more recent bridal editorial, which we can't wait to share with everyone!!

{Photo Credits} Millie gown by Nicole Miller, Photography by Laura Fulmer // Bridesmaids and Stationary via 100 Layer Cake, Stationary by Shannon Kirsten, Photography by Jessica Lorren Organic Photography // Cake Topper by Z Create Design // Heels via Loverly, Photography by Justin DeMutiis // Floral Arrangement via Style Me Pretty, Flowers by The Little Branch, Photography by Brandon Kidd 

BRIDESMAIDS MONDAY: Nicole Miller + Savannah Wedding

Couples love Savannah, and there are so many reasons why they choose to get married here. First, there is the iconic Spanish moss, draping over all of the streets off of the old oaks. Second, are the city squares. Each weekend you can see countless couples saying their "I Do's" in one of the 22 squares around the downtown area. Some have gazebos like Whitfield, some fountains like Lafayette square, or you have the largest park of them all, Forsyth. Third, Savannah has countless historic venues to choose from. Whether you want an old railroad museum, or an old southern fort, Savannah has it all. Savannah is like stepping into a fairy tale, and is romantic all year round.

Savannah is also versatile. You can have either a sophisticated black tie affair, or a fun outdoor celebration. Today we styled two new Nicole Miller gowns with both looks! The newest Nicole Miller collection is inspired by all things Savannah, and we are in love!! We can't wait to get the gowns we ordered this summer! See all of the newest styles on Style Me Pretty, and let us know which ones you think we should get for the shop!

Sophisticated Emerald Savannah: Are you looking for a black tie affair, but with a touch of southern charm? You can easily still incorporate Georgia's iconic peach with these modern invitations. You can set up your table with gold pillar candles, white china, a ton of greenery, and lot's of candles to make it romantic. Some good venues for this feel are Charles H Morris Center or Savannah Station. Both of these feature exposed brick on the inside, and are perfect for an evening affair. Have your bridesmaids in deep green gowns, and add some emerald jewelry to go with your decor. 

Simply Peachy Savannah: One of the most popular Savannah wedding's we do are the laid back outdoor affair! Brides love the charm of our many squares, and old churches like Bathesda. A lot of brides choose to have their reception outside, whether it is on a square or private residence.  Some venues that have great outdoor spaces are The Mackey House and Ships of the Sea Museum. Spring and Fall are the most popular months, where it is not too hot and humid, and less chance of rain. (Our summers are muggy and rainy!) Add touches of peach to tie in the iconic Georgia peaches! Peach is a good color on every skin tone, and you can make sure you glow with this all natural peach scrub. 

{Shopping Guide} Emerald Savannah: Wedding Dress by Nicole Miller, available in stores in summer // Emerald Table Scape via Ivory + Beau, Styling by Amber Veach Designs, Photography by Andi Mans // Ivy Badgley Mischka dress and Coronation Clutch from Rent The Runway // Gold Heels and Vintage Emerald Ring from Modcloth // Green Earrings from Isharya // Modern Peach Stationary from Elli // Simply Peachy Savannah: Wedding Dress by Nicole Miller, available in stores in summer // Lovely Garland Invitations from Wedding Paper Divas // Milk Vases from Luna Bazaar // Perfect Dance Peach Dress from Mod Cloth // Catalina Peach Earrings from 1928 Jewelry // Homegrown Beauty Kit in Peach from Pur Minerals // Map of Savannah by Evelyn Henson

THOUGHTS TUESDAY: Dear Brides

Dear brides,

Today I am here because I have a few requests from you. I am here to ask you a few favors and I am going to be quite honest while writing these requests and you may not like to hear them but sometimes we just need to say what we need to say because maybe what we are about to say isn't bad, or mean, but just the truth and it needs to be heard. So here goes. Today I am here because I have a few requests that are in regards to shopping for your wedding dress and so here goes.

1. Be open and say yes to new things. We are here to help. We are here to make you happy. We want so badly to make you happy. We want so badly for you to feel beautiful. We want so badly for you to love your dress. And we don't just want you to love your dress but we want you to be comfortable in it. So please be open with your consultant. Trust your consultant. She may pull a dress for you to try on that makes you stick up your nose in disgust. You may shake your head and say no way, not me, not happening. But in life there are things that come your way that you are going to initially deny. But I want you to think back to a time when you were presented with something you didn't want but you said yes. And then it was love. Maybe it was a plate full of oysters, all slimy and gooey but maybe you tried them anyway. And now one of your favorite things to do is shuck oysters on a Friday night with an ice cold beer. Maybe it was a can of coconut water which smells really weird and even has chunky weird stuff in it. But you tried it anyway and now you love it and drink it everyday and you get overly excited when its 2 for $3 on sale at Kroger. Or the best of them all, maybe it was a nerdy guy who asked you on a date and your initial thought was oh no he is not good enough for me but you said you would give it a shot anyway, I mean c'mon we all know we say yes to a date every once in awhile when we think we are too good for a guy but it means free dinner. But you said yes and now you are engaged and looking for your wedding dress. Goes without saying I believe I have sufficiently made my point... be open. New things will come your way, new dresses will come into your dressing room. Be open. You never know until you try it. Dare to try some pink on, or even a gown with a back cut-out detail.

2. Separates doesn't mean separate. Bridal separates are not bad. It does not mean you aren't buying a wedding dress. No, it means you have the privilege to put together your dream dress. Just because it is separate now does not mean you are getting two separate pieces when you order your dress it simply just means you get to choose the perfect bridal top for yourself and then you get a choose the perfect skirt for yourself that can fit together. You are essentially getting a custom wedding dress. Separates doesn't mean separate, give them a chance. You just might find the dress of your dreams and you got to put it together yourself.

3. Everybody has a price point. I don't care if your budget is $500 or $10,000. Everybody has some special number they want to stay within. Tell us. We aren't going to judge you but rather we are going to do the exact opposite. We are going to use that special number to help you find a dress that you not only love but that you can afford. The best part about shopping at a small boutique is that we can work with you and we know what costs what. If you tell us your budget we can direct you to the right dresses and the right accessories. We just want to help that's all. We aren't asking your price point to judge you we just want to know how we can help you. Below are three dresses by Nicole Miller, all at different price points. It's best to tell us what you are comfortable with spending, not just the designers you like, this way we can pull the best options!

{Dresses} Blushing by Sarah Seven / Spaghetti Strap A Line is Vivian-Sage by Rebecca Schoneveld / Cut out back detail is Barlow by Daughters of Simone // Lace T Shirt Top is Brooke and heavy Lace Top is Dahlia, both by Rebecca Schoneveld // Mermaid is Dakota, Criss Cross Back is Jamie, Beaded A Line is Millie, all by Nicole Miller

REAL BRIDES: Whitney & a WTOC-TV Feature

You guys. This made our day yesterday. Of course we love it when our brides send us pictures of them in their dress from our shop... but this was just the best ever. Our bride, Whitney, who wore a Nicole Miller gown sent us this news video from WTOC-TV featuring her in her wedding dress delayed while going over the bridge to her wedding on Tybee Island due to a boat fire. Seriously the best ever. And how absolutely stunning does she look!? Thank you Whitney for sharing with us and huge congratulations to you on your wedding day - so glad you made it there!!!!!

WTOC-TV: Savannah, Beaufort, SC, News, Weather

DESIGNER FEATURE: Nicole Miller + a Trunk Show

Nicole is a pretty rad name if I do say so myself. Not just because my name is Nicole of course but because today I have a crush on Nicole Miller and all the brides who rock Nicole Miller on their wedding day. Today sharing some of my favorite brides wearing Nicole Miller to get ya'll as excited as me for what's to come. Yup, Nicole Miller Trunk Show. Not only are her dresses fab but they are versatile and also a great price point for the price-conscious bride. Come shop -- (912)200-4794 or click here. See you soon beautiful.

1. The girly bride. She wants to look beautiful on her wedding day. Soft laces, romantic details and pretty features are of utmost importance. Her wedding will be classic and elegant.

2. The modern bride. She is glam, sleek and fashion forward. Not afraid to wear a statement necklace, bare some skin or rock a bold lipcolor. Her wedding will be trendy, bold and chic.

3. The wanderer bride. She gets lost frequently, whether in a forest, a cornfield or a desert, she loves adventure. Her wedding will be a wild, untamed wonderland.

{Photo Credits} [The WANDERER Bride] Bride in Forest via Ruffled, photography by Hazelwood Photos // Bride & Groom with Corn via Green Wedding Shoes, photography by Studio 127 // Bride & Groom in Desert via 100 Layer Cake, photography by Martin Vielma // Back of Bride's Dress via 100 Layer Cake, photography by Emily Delamater [The MODERN Bride] Bride with Emerald Necklace via Green Wedding Shoes, photography by Courtney Bowlden // Capsleeve Dress on Bride via 100 Layer Cake, photography by Hazelwood Photo // Dress via 100 Layer Cake, photography by Patricia Kantzos // Bride in Deep V Dress via Style Me Pretty, photography by Diana Lupu [The GIRLY Bride] Bride with Bouquet via Green Wedding Shoes, photography by Danielle Poff // Lacy Back Dress via 100 Layer Cake, photography by Andrey Mikityuk // Dresses via 100 Layer Cake, photography by Edyta Szylszo // Dress on Mrs. Hanger via Style Me Pretty, photography by Kaysha Weiner

SIMPLY INSPIRATION: Nicole Miller + Hawaii

We love seeing real brides in gowns we have! This gorgeous wedding from Burnett's Boards features the bride in Jamie by Nicole Miller, a gown our brides have been loving! She is a lace sheath with low back, and charmeuse train. She is perfect for an outdoor wedding in a warm environment  like Hawaii, because she is so light weight! We were inspired by a Hawaiian dream wedding, complete with pineapples and the coolest escort cards!

Our Nicole Miller Trunk show is coming up! We will have all of their Fall 2015 gowns February 12th - 15th ONLY so make sure to set an appointment!

[Photo Credits] Nicole Miller Jamie gown via Burnett's Boards, Photography by Blenda Montoro, available at Ivory + Beau // Pineapple centerpiece from Brides, Photography by Mary Costa // Hair Accessory by Hushed Commotion, Photography by Brklyn View // Boutonnières and Cake via Burnetts Boards, Flowers by Designs by Hemingway, Photography by Jeannemarie Photography // Table Setting via Floridian Wedding, Flowers by Ever After Event and Floral Design, Photography by Captured Photography by Jenny // Stationary via Wedding Chicks, Invitations and Photography by The Stationary

SIMPLY INSPIRATION: Christmas Garden Wedding

So as you've seen on previous blogs (here and here) we have a slight crush on Dakota by Nicole Miller. We just love how this gown transforms with each bride who wears it! We love the idea of a fresh farm-to-table wedding for Christmas... especially since around here it has not felt at all like winter with these 70 degree days in Savannah. Anyway, we love our wedding planning clients who choose to work with a caterer who prefers to buy local since its a great way to provide your guests with fresh, local food. Plus a farm is a gorgeous backdrop for a ceremony and reception. Add some vintage rentals, and you've instantly turned it from rustic to glam. To schedule an appointment to shop our new Nicole Miller dresses you can call us at (912)200-4794, e-mail ivoryandbeau@gmail.com or click here! Happy Holidays everyone!!

{Photo Credits} Dakota Gown by Nicole Miller via Off Beat Bride, Photography by From The Hip, available at Ivory and Beau // Sign via One Fab Day, Photography by Steven Barber // Fresh Buffet via Style Me Pretty, Catering by Culinary Concepts, Baskets by Texas Basket Company, Photography by Ken Kienow // Reception and Cake via Green Wedding Shoes, Rentals by Embellish Vintage Rentals, Flowers by Panacea Event Floral Design,  Photography by Clayton Ausin // Stationary via Wedding Chicks, Flowers by Habitat Floral Design, Stationary and Photography by Cluney Photo

DESIGNER FEATURE: New Nicole Miller Styles

We've only had Nicole Miller for a few weeks, and she has been such a huge hit! And we have great news!! We have two more styles coming in, both from her new Fall 2015 collection! First is Janey, a gorgeous lace gown with deep back, lace straps, and v-neck. The second gown is Perry, an all over lace strapless gown with sweetheart neckline. The best part? Both gowns are under $2000!

We love having touches of Orange in your wedding, so with both gowns we are going to show you different ways to do orange! Janey is paired with navy, gold and orange, while Perry is with burnt orange and red. We love how both dresses can go with any style of wedding, and are so comfortable! We will have these gowns by New Years, so call us to set up your appointment! 912-200-4794!

[Navy and Orange] Janey gown by Nicole Miller, available at Ivory and Beau // Cocktail hour and reception via Society Bride, Flowers by Couture Design, Photography by A Muse Photography // Bouquet via Bridal Bar, Paper flowers by The Crimson Poppy, Photography by B&G Photography // Wedding cake via Style Me Pretty, cake by Confiserie Spruengli, Photography by Sandra Marusic // Stationary via Elizabeth Anne Designs, Photography by One Summer Day // Bridesmaid and shoes via Style Me Pretty, Shoes by Loeffler Randall,  Flowers by Kim Jon Designs, Brklyn View Photography [Burnt Orange] Perry Gown by Nicole Miller, available at Ivory and Beau // Table setting and menu via Style Me Pretty, Design by Brita Olsen Creative, Calligraphy by Ink Revival, Photography by Troy Williams // Bouquet and lantern via Burnetts Boards, Flowers by Marina Shentyapina, Photography by Anastasiya Belik // Ceremony via Green Wedding Shoes, Flowers by Amanda O'Shannessy Creative, Photography by Melanie Duerkopp // Cake via The Southern California Bride, Cake by Frost It Cupcakery, Flowers by Unique Floral Design, Photography by Poiema Photography // Stationary via Green Wedding Shoes, Paper Goods by Mae Mae Paperie, Photography by Melanie Duerkopp 

SIMPLY INSPIRATION: Lakeside + Nicole Miller

If you saw our post a few weeks ago, you know how much we love the Dakota gown by Nicole Miller!! We LOVE love LOVE how versatile this gown is, and how it is so figure flattering! I mean, hello perfect hourglass! We love her sweetheart neckline with built in corset, and the train is stunning. We love this bride rocking Dakota at a lakeside wedding, so I knew I had to put together a lakeside inspiration board! It's even complete with a canoe ice bucket! If you are loving Dakota, set up your appointment to try her on! 912-200-4794

{Photo Credits} Gown Dakota by Nicole Miller, available at Ivory and Beau // Hanging Centerpiece via Ruffled, Design and Flowers by Faye + Renee, Photography by Clayton Austin // Location via Ruffled, Photography by Orange Turtle Photography // Escort Cards via Southern Weddings, Paper and design by Hi Note, Photography by Melissa Schollaeart // Invitations via The Knot, Stationary by A Milestone Paper Co, Photography by Kelly Brown Wedding

DESIGNER FEATURE: Nicole Miller

I'll admit, Nicole and I were a little unsure about adding a new designer at market. We were especially unsure since we had never seen Nicole Miller Bridal in person. But all of this changed at market. Once we saw them in person we knew immediately we had to add them!! From her detailed laces, to her stretchy and comfortable silk, her gowns are perfect for every bride! So here are some of the many reasons we love Nicole Miller! We now have Nicole Miller gowns in our shop, so make sure to set up an appointment to try these lovely gowns on!

1. Handmade in the USA: These gowns are handmade in NYC. So that means amazing craftsmanship, American made, and the best quality! We strive to have USA made gowns here at Ivory and Beau, showing you can get a great gown right here at home.

2. Her gowns are classic: Nicole Miller is known for her clean lines and stretchy, body hugging gowns. Her gowns are sophisticated, chic with a modern touch. But she doesn't just do silk, she has an amazing selection of lace gowns that you are going to love! She has such a range, from her classic and fitted Dakota mermaid, to her sheath lace Jamie gown. So many styles to choose from!

3. Her Price: One of our favorite things about Nicole Miller is the price! Her gowns start at $1000! Handmade in the US and under $2500? Yes please! So brides, you don't have to spend thousands to get an amazing gown with impeccable quality!

4. Need a gown ASAP? But don't want to go to David's Bridal? Nicole Miller is perfect for you! Select gowns can be received within a week! Is your wedding in a year? No worry, we can place the order and have the standard bridal timeline of 4 - 6 months.

{Photo Credits} Alexis Gown // Jamie Gown, via The Wedding Boutique, Photography by Zoom Fiji // Millie Gown // Dakota Gown, via Style Me Pretty, Photography by Sarah Kate

DESIGNER FEATURE: Why we love Dakota by Nicole Miller

One of the most amazing gowns we have from Nicole Miller is the Dakota gown! Everyone has been raving about how perfect this gown is, and now that we have it, we can see why! Dakota is a cotton silk mermaid, with a built in corset (hello no bra!) sweetheart neckline, sweeping train, and clean lines. What we love most about Dakota is how versatile she is. I mean, you can really wear this dress with any wedding theme! Dramatic wedding? Pair it with some dark tones and a black suit. Beach wedding? This light weight gown is perfect for the beach! Afternoon garden wedding? Pair the cream gown with ivory peonies, and the perfect sash, and ta da, you have the softest, most figure flattering look! Dakota looks perfect on all shapes, and her price can't be beat! We know for a fact Savannah brides are going to love her look, and love how they look in her!

To prove how versatile this gown is, here are three completely different weddings, and how you can style Dakota! (Yes, all of the brides shown are wearing this gown! It looks amazing no matter how you wear it!) P.S I have a TON more inspiration boards off of this stunning gown, so stay tuned for more ways to pair Dakota! And, if she is the gown for you, make sure to give us a call and try her on!

Burgundy Drama

Relaxed Seaglass

Romantic Garden

[Burgundy Drama] Dress by Nicole Miller, via Sarah Kate Photo // Invitations and escort cards via Wedding Chicks, Stationary by Laura Hooper Calligraphy, Flowers by Southern Flowers, Photography by Adam Barnes // Boutonnieres via Style Me Pretty, Flowers by A Day In Provence, Photography by Canary Grey Photography // Cake via Fab You Bliss, Cake by Dream Slice Cake, Photography by Kristen Curette // Bridesmaids via Style Me Pretty, Flowers by Forest Bespoke Florals, Photography by Jose Villa [Relaxed Seaglass] Dress by Nicole Miller // Invitations and gifts via Ruffled, Styling by Vintage my Wedding, Paper Goods by Be True Designs, Photography by Love is a Big Deal // Cake via Style Me Pretty, Cake by The Sweet Crumb, Photography by O'Malley Photography // Reception via Style Me Pretty, Flowers by Liz Clark, Photography by Paper Antler  [Romantic Garden] Dress by Nicole Miller via Inspired By This, Photography by Michelle Warren // Reception via Style Me Pretty, Flowers by Sharla Flock Designs, Photography by Yvonne Wong // Hanging Chair and Bridesmaids via Magnolia Rogue, Flowers by Bladine Viry, Photography by Xavier Navarro