The Millennial Bride

Photography by Vanessavelezphotography and enuelvieraphoto

Model @Laurahelton

Apparel by @thebeachbride

Florals by @thebridecandy

Members of Generation Y (millennials) were born between 1980 and 2000. This generation usually prefers to combine personalized and traditional wedding elements to create a unique wedding. For example some brides choose a unique way to display the tradition “something blue”. I’ve seen brides wear blue shoes , blue jewelry, even blue dresses making the tradition of something blue become a statement. The millennial bride knows that traditional never goes out of style but making it your own tailors it to you. 

Photography by Vanessavelezphotography and enuelvieraphoto

Model @Laurahelton

Apparel by @thebeachbride

Florals by @thebridecandy

Millennial Bride Fashion 

The Millennial bride goes beyond just her wedding dress for her bridal fashion. Of course she has to look fly for all of her occasions (all for the gram ). From bridal bathing suits, bride bags, and wifey jean jackets, the millennial bride knows life is a fashion show. Her wedding dress tends to be romantic and timeless in style. This bride breaks all the rules that need to be broken while keeping things classic and chic. 

Photography by Vanessavelezphotography and enuelvieraphoto

Model @Laurahelton

Apparel by @thebeachbride

Florals by @thebridecandy

Millennial Music

The Millennial bride’s music choices may include anything from country to rock to techno music. The 90’s music culture made this bride one of the cool kids. She will definitely ditch the 90’s fashion (or maybe not) but the millennial bride wants to have fun and relive childhood memories with her friends and family. This bride digs the oldies but holds her dress up so she can definitely twerk too. Often times this bride will chose live music and a DJ too.

Photography by Vanessavelezphotography and enuelvieraphoto

Model @Laurahelton

Apparel by @thebeachbride

Florals by @thebridecandy

Insta Bride 

The millennial bride will likely find her wedding vendors through Instagram and if she doesn’t, she will definitely check their vendor’s insta handles for sure. The millennial bride is #BrideAF. She will make sure to #hashtag everything and have fun doing it too. What’s more fun than getting your #bridessquad matching shirts with a hashtag? This bride is tech savvy and will document everything via iPhone. She’ll also change her relationship status on her wedding night . 

Photography by Vanessavelezphotography and enuelvieraphoto

Model @Laurahelton

Apparel by @thebeachbride

Florals by @thebridecandy

This Millennial bride is more than just a generation. She is the one who will carry the torch to the daughter after her. She will teach them to be themselves but value their traditions. Often we hear the word Millennial thrown around in a negative way and I hope this has helped bring a positive view to this generation. I wonder what the next generation of bride will be like. For now, I am enjoying hearing Backstreet Boys with these Millennial brides.  

Photography by Vanessavelezphotography and enuelvieraphoto

Model @Laurahelton

Apparel by @thebeachbride

Florals by @thebridecandy

6 Most Romantic Wedding Venues in Miami

6 Most Romantic Wedding Venues in Miami

Miami is lucky that it has so many beautiful and romantic wedding venues. Read on to see The Bride Candy’s top picks for romantic venues in Miami.

In this picture, one member of a same-love couple gives a rose to the other in front of a grand window at the Biltmore Hotel in Miami. Photography by Pati Laylle

Miami is truly a magical city. From its tropical sunsets to its beautiful weather, its no wonder why so many brides want to have their wedding in Miami. But with so many venue options, how do you know where to start? Here’s our choices for the top six most romantic wedding venues in Miami.

Deering Estate

The Deering Estate is a historic home right on Biscayne Bay in Miami, but it’s the gardens and waterfront that make this venue one of The Bride Candy’s top picks for most romantic wedding venues in Miami.

In this photo, a bride and groom hold hands while facing the camera at twilight with clouds and Biscayne Bay in the background. Photography by Julia Zave

The historic Deering Estate, sister to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, was the home of Charles Deering. The stone house was built in the 1920’s and the beautiful architecture mimics the era in which it was built. As you walk toward the house you are surrounded by lush tropical hammocks. The grounds have a breathtaking view of Biscayne Bay where most Wedding ceremonies take place. The Harbor is is lined with palm trees and as you gaze upon the bay it almost looks like you are sitting on the water itself.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

If you’re looking for opulence, you’ll find it at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. This sprawling estate features finely manicured European gardens that are perfect for a romantic ceremony, making it the most romantic venue to have a Miami wedding.

In this photo, workers finish putting the finishing touches on a wedding setup in the gardens. The foreground features a wooden chuppah with tropical florals by The Bride Candy.

Photography by Laylle digital media

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is one of the most breathtaking venues I have ever seen. It was owned by the late James Deering, brother to Charles Deering of Deering Estate (above). The estate is surrounded by subtropical forests and the structures built around the property make it look like it came straight out of a fairytale. The main house is so grandiose, every crevice of the building is filled with fine detail. When you look up you can see art painted on the tall ceilings of the property. The back terrace opens up to the water of Biscayne bay where most wedding receptions take place. Wedding ceremonies usually take place on top of a garden mound where a gorgeous structure stands. It is the perfect place to host an extravagant wedding celebration.

Villa Woodbine

Nestled in the heart of Coconut Grove, Villa Woodbine is a historic home and is one of The Bride Candy’s favorite Miami wedding venues for its beautiful courtyard and grand backyard.

This photo shows the arched wooden front door of Villa Woodbine with Juliet wrought-iron balcony above. The path to the front door is surrounded by lush palms.

Villa Woodbine is both grand and intimate. When you enter the Villa, you are greeted by a beautiful fountain in the middle of the courtyard. You can hear the fountain trickling as you explore the property. The villa has so many attributes, such as a staircase perfect for grand entrances, two fireplaces, and a giant oak tree where most ceremonies take place. This venue is filled with photo-worthy spots. It’s no wonder its been featured by bridal blogs and magazines. It is truly a gorgeous gem.

The Biltmore Hotel

The Biltmore Hotel is one of the most famous landmarks of Coral Gables, and for good reason - it’s architecture and ambience screams old-world luxury. Most weddings take place in its grand ballrooms, and its size makes it a good choice for larger weddings.

This photo shows a same-love couple holding hands and kissing in front of the main entrance of the Biltmore Hotel against a blue sky. Photography by Laylle digital media

The Biltmore Hotel was built by George Merrick who called it “The castle in the sky”. It lives up to its name as it stands in the center of the historic city of Coral Gables. When you enter the main foyer, there are grand painted vaulted ceilings. The Biltmore Hotel has 4 ballrooms on the property, all of which are filled with crystal chandeliers, tall ceilings and big windows. Its over the top aesthetic makes it the perfect place for a royal wedding.

The Ancient Spanish Monastery

If you’re look to have a wedding that feels like a big step back in time, then The Ancient Spanish Monastery in Miami is the wedding venue for you. It’s gothic-arched cloisters evoke a castle-like feeling.

This picture shows the hallways of the stone cloisters with a tiled floor, arched ceilings and stone columns.

The Ancient Spanish Monastery feels like you are in a different part of the world. It should feel that way because it’s not from Miami. Originally built in Spain in 1141 AD, its original name was The Monastery of our Lady queen of Angels. In the 1950’s it was rebuilt in Miami Florida. The Cloisters of the Ancient Spanish Monastery are the perfect backdrop for a royal themed wedding. This venue is not just filled with history but it truly gives your guests an experience like no other.

Curtiss Mansion

The Curtiss Mansion make the list of one of The Bride Candy’s most romantic Miami wedding venues because of its gorgeous front lawn, it’s Pueblo-style architecture, and it’s grand courtyard.

This picture shows the stone arch in the backyard of the Curtiss Mansion with Banyan tree roots slowly engulfing it. You can see the reading garden beyond the stone arch at the center of the photo.

The Curtiss Mansion is not only romantic but is one of Miami’s most unique venues. Designed in the Pueblo Revival style, Curtiss Mansion was constructed in 1925 by Glenn Hammond Curtiss. It has multiple wedding ceremony areas that cater to your unique style. The courtyard, home to most receptions, makes for a whimsical setting perfect for a romance-filled wedding. This venue also has a ton of history so make sure you check it out.

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No matter which venue you choose in Miami, you’ll be able to take advantage of the city’s amazing charm and beauty. Lean into the natural beauty of the venue to make the most out of your wedding. The Bride Candy does floral design in all of these venues and many more, so please reach out if you’re looking for advice on how to make your special day in Miami even more beautiful.

Things people don’t tell you about your Engagement

Beautiful photos taken in The Biltmore Hotel coral gables Miami Florida Photography by laylle digital media

I recently got engaged to the love of my life. I must say this has been an experience like no other. I think we all at one point wondered what this part of our lives would be like. So I thought I would write a little about my experience and give advice to those who need it or will need it in the future. There are so many feelings that come with this chapter of your life. It may surprise you but it definitely will change you.

photos taken in The Biltmore Hotel coral gables Miami Florida Photography by laylle digital media

All Love stories are different

We all have imagined in our head of how our engagement happens. Maybe you pictured a room full of candles in a château in Paris with a piano playing as your fiancé goes down on one knee. It’s quite possible that your partner may just ask you in your living room while wearing pajamas. Let’s face it, not everyone is marrying Mr. Grey. Even if the engagement itself was magical, after everything goes back to normal. In my career I have meet so many couples. Some have very interesting stories and others, not so much but theres one big thing in common …. love. Love is beautiful all on its own. Not everything is like they are in the movies. No matter how it happened our love stories are beautiful. Even if you’re in pj’s ;).

Photo taken in the ballroom of The Biltmore Hotel in Miami Florida

Relationships will grow and some will fade

We all experience things in different ways but I think we can all agree that as we grow people grow with us or drift apart. Not everyone is going to be happy for you. Its a hard pill to swallow, but its not because of you. Its very difficult for some people to be happy for someone else when they are not happy themselves. Some may feel as though you’re riding off to into the sunset and leaving them. On the other hand those relationships that truly matter will grow. In my experience this part of my life reminded me of my true friendships. Not only do they get to be there for such a great time in your life but they will be there for you when things get tough. Any transition in life is going to teach you many lessons. You are growing and just like a rose as you blossom petals will fall to allow you to open to your fullest.

photos taken in The Biltmore Hotel coral gables Miami Florida Photography by laylle digital media

Its exciting and scary

In my experience this has been such an exciting time in my life but I would be lying if I said it didn’t scare me. Even though I knew Jeremy wanted to marry me I was afraid he would freak out and walk away. He didn't and it was the most magical moment in my life. Our relationship changed, we were no longer just boyfriends, he’s my fiancé and it was time for us to start acting like husbands. Planning a wedding is fun and exciting (just like marriage) but once you start crunching numbers and writing a guest list, this is the time things start getting real. We both have had our moments but at the end we know with all of our heart we want to live the rest of our lives together. So when things get scary look towards each other not away. Do things at your pace, Together you can do anything.

photos taken in The Biltmore Hotel coral gables Miami Florida Photography by laylle digital media

Things change

For the most part everything is the way it was. Your routine is the same, none of your problems go away and yes you’ll get on each other’s nerves from time to time. There’s a few things that do change. Theres this feeling of security and validation you get from your partner knowing you made the official choice to take the next step. Everything you worked for in this relationship is paying off and growing into something so beautiful. Just when you didn’t think you could love each other any more, BOOM it grew. Fiance …. you won’t get tired of saying that for a while, I know I haven’t. You start evaluating your choices and thinking, damn I did good. This is it, you are now transitioning in to building a marraige. There a shift in a relationship that you can feel radiating from each other. You’ll see a different side to your partner and most importantly in yourself.

photos taken in The Biltmore Hotel coral gables Miami Florida Photography by laylle digital media

The silver lining 

You’re getting married! This is your engagement and your fiancé and yourself are changing for the better. This staple in your life will prepare you for what’s to come. You are starting a new chapter and it’s natural to experience different emotions. Some relationships will grow and the people you let go will make room for the positive things in life. Most importantly stay present. This is a beautiful time in your life and if you are not careful it will fly by you. Only you can make you happy and now you have someone who is going to be by your side forever. To whoever is reading this have a beautiful day and most importantly love yourself.

photos taken in The Biltmore Hotel coral gables Miami Florida Photography by laylle digital media

The Mermaid Bride

The Mermaid Bride

IG: @Mermaid_jules

Photography @thestory

Many of us have seen Little Mermaid. As a child I would flip my hair just the way she did in the movie in my bath tub splashing water all over my bathroom (poor mom). So you could only imagine what I felt when I discovered a bride of mine was a professional mermaid! I became one of her biggest fans and would stalk her instagram on the regular.

IG mermaid_jules

I remember the first time I spoke to mermaid Jules. She was everything you would expect a mermaid to be like. She was bubbly , sweet , and very pretty. She has a pink mermaid tail , her hair was long , and she wore crowns made out of seashells. Anthony her fiancé definitely resembles a prince. Anthony was a tall, dashing, dark haired gentleman. The both looked like they came straight out of a fairytale.

What does a mermaid Choose for her wedding? A seaside wedding of course! Starfish were placed on every table, pearls were added to her bouquet and a mini starfish in Anthony’s boutonniere . Her colors were blush pinks, pearly whites and light shades of greens.

On the day of the wedding I wore my Little Mermaid shirt. I must say it was a hit, especially for my bride who noticed it immediately. What does a mermaid wear on her wedding day? A dress with a seashell top, pearl necklace , and a smile that made the entire ocean sparkle with her. When she walked down the aisle her dress flowed as her bare feet hit the sand. Hair blowing in the wind she married her prince in front of all of their her loved ones. It was a happily ever after straight from a fairytale.

#MermaidSquad

Look closely at the petals in her bouquet!

Fun Fact : Mermaid Jules made her dress!

Train ride to holiday memories

Nautical Christmas

Our first Christmas tree was my favorite. It was the biggest tree they had and boy did my eyes light up when I saw it. Jeremy looked at me like I was crazy and was unsure it would fit through our door but I was persistent. Every morning when I opened my bedroom door the smell of pine filled the entire house. It was my first Christmas in Florida and I was inspired to have a nautical theme. We had 4 boats, 35 star fish, 15 feet of nautical rope, and lots of ornaments some hand made by me. Other than the size of the tree, it was my favorite tree because it was our first. It was our first holiday in our home together. I have fond memories of meeting Jeremy’s parents for the first time in front of the tree and long hours talking about memories. That was the year Jeremy’s mom, Kathy, brought her vintage train that was passed down to her from the 50’s. The train now resides in our home and later became the inspiration for our third Christmas tree.

Fun fact: This boat was a foot and a half long! It was gifted by a good friend of ours.

Fun fact: There were so many lights that they blew out and we had to redecorate the tree!

Wishing Tree

Jeremy lived in South Korea for two years and one Christmas he had a small Christmas tree that he adorned with paper cranes he made. The story had my wheels turning and I knew what our second Christmas tree theme would be. Mid September we began folding paper cranes (when I say we, I mean Jeremy). I on the other hand made geometric ornaments from wire, straws, and spray paint. Every ornament on the tree was handmade. One of my favorite parts was the lanterns because they look like they were lit but they were not. The creativity and how original the theme was what made this tree special.

Fun fact: This was not the original tree. The first one was too small and I undecorated it and put it upstairs in our room. I had always wanted a full size tree in my room!

Fun fact: Jeremy has been making paper cranes since he was a kid. He read a story about a Japanese legend that said that whoever folds 1000 paper cranes gets one wish granted. He think he might have hit that number this Christmas (lol)

Polar Express

The vintage train is one of our favorite things we have in our home. Both Jeremy and I loved trains since we were kids and this one was not just a beautiful antique but an heirloom we had in our home. We loved it so much we wanted it to be the inspiration to our third tree together. One day when I was around 8 I saw a train that ran inside a tree and that memory stuck in my head like glue. From then on I always wanted one and for this tree I had to have it and boy did I search in till I found it. We had a Santa’s list ribbon made by my friend @claudiastrenger , a calligrapher who embedded the names of all of our loved ones. We dubbed some people naughty and some nice all in good fun (I’m on the naughty list)! Many of the ornaments were bought from antique stores or toys bought online. A favorite part of the tree (other than using the vintage train as ornaments) is Jeremy’s mom at thanksgiving gave me ornaments passed down from Jeremy’s grandmother from his dad’s side. She also gave me vintage postcards received by Jeremy’s great-grandmother and they are so whimsical. I don’t have family heirlooms so having something like this meant so much. In all of my trees I make sure to add Love and something memorable.

Fun fact: This is our first artificial tree. We are traveling a lot and cannot have a real one. So flocked tree it is and it was perfect !

Fun fact: Jeremy’s great-aunt was a railroad nurse, and these postcards belonged to her mother. This ornament grouping is in her memory.

Fun fact: Our cat Pearl couldn’t stop eating this tree! We found out that the flocking is mildly toxic to cats, so we have to spray the tree with natural cat repellent often to keep her away (she’s never ate it again).

Fun fact: This is a real working train. It’s so much fun to watch it go around the tree. The original idea was to do this with the vintage train, but it sparked a little too much to be safe! (lol)

Fun fact: I had this idea to do a Santa’s list, but I couldn’t find the right color for the fabric. So I dyed it with coffee! This awesome calligraphy was done by @claudiastrenger

Fun fact: We picked up this train at a thrift store in Martha’s Vineyard. It was supposed to be display-only, but we think the manager had a little too much wine at lunch and sold it to us. Apparently it had been there for years!

I hope you enjoy our Christmas trees along with our memories. May you and your family be inspired to add a touch of love and history to your holiday. May your days be merry and bright!