My bridal shower was an absolute dream come true! Working in the wedding industry as a stylist, I had a lot of ideas and inspiration, but I still wanted my shower to be a semi-surprise! I handed off my “pin-spiration” to my oh-so-talented mom, sister and godmother, and they made miracles happen!

We had my bridal shower at my apartment in Old City, Philadelphia. As soon as I moved in (4 months prior) and showed my mom and sister my new place, our wheels started turning. The high ceilings and floor length windows had us dreaming about floating flowers and a spring soiree! While having a semi-surprise bridal shower at your own apartment isn’t quite traditional, I must say it made transporting all my special gifts a breeze 🙂

I’ve aways been inspired by my mother-in-law’s vintage tea collection and was thrilled when she offered 36 sets for my shower! My guests and I were in awe over how beautiful and intricate each tea set was. They were a hit!

My mom and sister stumbled across a local peony farm, where they sourced the flowers and made their own arrangements. Although they attempted to keep the fresh blooms a secret, I caught wind of a trip to a peony farm and weaseled my way in! Who can say no to the bride-to-be?! We had such a fun day picking flowers, it was just a glimpse of what was to come!

Choosing an outfit for my bridal shower was surprisingly difficult! There is nothing I love more than styling brides in little white dresses, and when it came my turn to be the bride, I wanted ALL the dresses! I had to draw the line somewhere and I decided on a tea length lace dress with modern cut outs and a grosgrain belt. The length was classic and appropriate, while the cut outs made the dress fresh and fun! I found these big white flower earrings and couldn’t pass them up! With a white dress and white earrings, I continued on the theme and went with white shoes to finish the look.

On the day of the shower, I was sent off for some pampering at Richard Nicolas Salon. Kristyn, from shimmer and spice did my make-up with soft, pink tones and full lashes. She made me feel so glamorous – it was the perfect way to start the day!

When I got back to the house, it was a complete transformation! I was surprised with the most fragrant flowers (everywhere!), pretty little details, delicious cupcakes, all my favorite foods. They even had rosé from the Willamette Valley, OR, where we got married!

And the best gift came from my sweet mamma! Inside the prettiest package was a handkerchief that had been carried by my great-grandmother, my nana, my aunts and my mom on their wedding day. And a Mrs. Box with a six pence to wear in my left shoe on my wedding day. We’re a pretty tight knit family so these traditions meant the world to me!

We played games (created by sister and MOH), opened presents and drank plenty of rosé! The day was full of the most thoughtful and personal touches, I could not stop smiling 🙂 And here’s proof…

I was so grateful to have my friend and talented photographer, Ashlee Mintz capture this special day! It was so full of love and I’ll cherish these photos forever!

xx,
Lauren