Margaret Ellen Bride | Megan and Andrew's Pensacola Wedding

Dr. Megan Priddy began 2019 with a bang by marrying Andrew Hock on January 25, 2019 in Pensacola, Florida. The two married at Old Christ Church and celebrated with a reception to follow at the Pensacola Museum of Commerce. Megan wore a gorgeous long sleeve Martina Liana wedding dress paired with a Sara Gabriel veil that was perfect for her winter wedding. Take a look at this gorgeous wedding captured by the lovely Perla Martinez Photography.

How did you meet your groom?

Andrew and I met on Match in the fall of 2017. We began dating after a few weeks of emails and phone calls back and forth.

How did Andrew POP the question?

We were in Dallas, TX for a volleyball tournament that Andrew was competing in when he proposed. He took me on a day date to the botanical gardens in Dallas between volleyball matches on the first day of tournament play. We walked through the gardens for about half an hour before we came to a roped off section where our favorite artist was playing over the speakers and a framed collage of our photographs was sitting on a park bench. Andrew told me how much he loved me before getting down on one knee to ask me to be his wife. Of course I said yes! His family and friends were hiding out at the gardens waiting for him to propose. He had also hired a photographer for the proposal as well. We celebrated the rest of that weekend with family and friends!

What was your favorite part of the wedding planning process?

Choosing the venues with Andrew! We love historic downtown Pensacola, so it was fun to explore different potential sites for our rehearsal dinner, wedding, and reception together.

What is your favorite memory from the wedding day?

Our first dance! We decided to take lessons ahead of time and we had so much fun practicing together for the last few weeks leading up to our wedding. When it was go time, dancing with him felt so natural and we could relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about the next step.

What is one piece of advice you would give someone preparing for their wedding day?

Use an app like Zola or The Knot to keep yourself organized and on track with all of the to-do items for your wedding! This was clutch for me in not procrastinating and keeping my stress level down so I could enjoy the process.

Why did you choose Margaret Ellen Bridal? How did you know your dress was "the one"?

I loved the quality of the dresses at Margaret Ellen. They were beautiful and made me feel elegant. I appreciated the one on one appointment with Maggie as well. We all knew my dress was “the one” when I came out of the fitting room and Andrew’s niece started crying and whispered to her mom, I think that should be her dress! When her mom told us what she had said we all started crying and I didn’t try on another dress. I had found the wedding dress I had always envisioned.

Megan and Andrew honeymooned aboard a Norwegian Cruise and visited the wonderful destinations of Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Belize and Mexico.

Photographer: Perla Martinez Photography

Videographer: Lother & Co.

Venue(s): Old Christ Church and Museum of Commerce

Florist: Chrissy Helvenston

Wedding Planner/Coordinator: Southern Frills Weddings and Events | Kelly Rhodes

Caterer: Culinary Productions

Hair/Makeup Artist: Epic Salon

Cake: Publix Bakery

Reception Band/DJ: Niel Zanthos

Invitations: Zazzle

Officiant: Pastor John Benaquis

Wedding Dress: Martina Liana | Margaret Ellen Bridal

Bridesmaid Dresses Designer and Store Where Purchased: Lulu’s

Tuxedos: Men’s Wearhouse

Seamstress: Kathleen Cooper

Other: Dance Floor and Lighting by Supposey

Margaret Ellen bride | Summer Hernandez Johnson's Destin, Florida Wedding

Would you look at this beautiful family?!? How precious is that baby girl?

Summer Hernandez changed her last name and became Mrs. Johnson when she married Matt on November 17, 2018. They wed and celebrated their marriage at the Destin Bay House in Destin, Florida. She wore a gorgeous gown by Martina Liana paired with a Sara Gabriel veil and LaGartier garter.

Summer is a local bride who grew up in Fort Walton Beach, Florida and we are proud that she was one of the first girls to find her dream dress after we opened the doors of Margaret Ellen Bridal in 2018. Congrats Summer and Matt on your marriage. Wishing you many years of happiness!

Tell us about your love story with Matt.

We grew up together as kids in the same neighborhood. Matt and I use to ride mopeds around our neighborhood together back when we were 12 years old. We would go on adventures and hang out from sunrise to sunset. We were each other first kiss. In middle school. I dumped him, haha! We went our separate ways for many years and didn’t have the same group of friends and never hung out in the same places. It wasn’t until many years later we rekindled our relationship, and from that day forward he went on to become an incredible father to our daughter and a wonderful husband.

What was your favorite part of the wedding planning process?

Finding the dress, duh! My favorite part was also picking out all the over all design for theme for the wedding. I’m super hands on with that stuff and I have had years of Pinterest pins that I wanted to bring to life.

What is your favorite memory from the wedding day?

Seeing how emotional my groom was. He was the perfect groom, and his vows were so sweet and perfect. People still talk about how emotional they got during our ceremony.

What is one piece of advice you would give someone preparing for their wedding day?

On the morning of your wedding, just breathe. Take a few solid minutes to be alone and collect your thoughts. No matter what’s wrong don’t freak out and get upset about the little stuff. It’s your day that you worked so hard for so just enjoy the ride.

Why did you choose Margaret Ellen Bridal? How did you know your dress was "the one"?

I chose Margaret Ellen because I somehow received advertisement of a new up and coming bridal boutique in my email. After having a not so great experience at another store my spirits were down. My mom booked my appointment with Margaret Ellen, and I was very excited. Maggie exceeded all my expectations of what a true bridal experience should be. Right when I walked in, my dress was the first one I laid my eyes on. After I put it on, none of the other dresses gave me that this is the one, feeling. When you know, you just know.

Summer and Matt will be honeymooning in Santorini, Greece in the coming months to celebrate their marriage!

Photographer: Aislinn Kate Photography

Videographer: Tim Scarbrough

Venue: Destin Bay House

Florist: Florals by the Sea

Wedding Planner: Tammy | The Eventful Planner

Caterer: The Eventful Planner

Hair/Makeup Artist: Tania Crawford

Cake: Publix Destin

Reception Band/DJ: Epic Entertainment

Invitations: Shine Wedding Invitation

Officiant: Harry Madison

Bridesmaid Dresses: Lulus

Tuxedos: Asos

Seamstress: Kathleen Cooper | Southern Simplicity

Dress: Martina Liana

Veil: Sara Gabriel

Garter: LaGartier

Margaret Ellen bride | MRS. Danielle Kruja

I met Danielle back in February, just one short month after opening our doors. She was in search for a wedding dress that she was confident in and would be happy with for a long time to come. She fell in love with a gorgeous Martina Liana and paired a veil to match and the rest was history. She married Tauland Kruja on October 27, 2018 at The Ringling in Sarasota, Florida.

How did yours and Tauland’s love story begin?

Tauland and I started dating in 2015. Our first date was at a miniature golf course. Tauland was the perfect gentleman by letting me win (at least that is what he says). We shared a small cheese pizza for dinner and finished the night with ice cream from Sweetberries.

How did Tauland ask you to be his wife?

To get me to go to Orlando without suspecting anything Tauland told me he had an oral surgery appointment with a teacher’s friend. Seemed logical by the fact he was a dental student. The first surprise was when we arrived at the Waldorf Astoria, not only were we staying at this amazing resort we had a view overlooking Walt Disney World and the fireworks. The following day he surprised me again by taking me to Magic Kingdom. When we got up to the castle, Tauland got down on one knee and proposed. That night, Tauland got us reservations for the Wishes Dessert Buffett. We had access to unlimited desserts with a table overlooking the castle during the fireworks.

What was your favorite memory from the day of your wedding?

Our first look. I feel I was able to have the opportunity to have so many extra great pictures while having our first look. And I don’t think it took away from walking down the isle. I saved wearing my veil for walking down the aisle to give Tauland a little surprise and keep some mystery.

What is one piece of advice you would give someone preparing for their wedding day?

Enjoy the process and have a planner or day of coordinator. They took so much stress of my plate so I could focus on just enjoying the moments.

Why did you choose Margaret Ellen Bridal? How did you know your dress was "the one"?

I had recently moved to the area for Tauland's dental school. Though I had already purchased a dress somewhere else I was having doubts. I found Margaret Ellen online and just had a gut feeling I needed to go. I had two separate appointments with Maggie going with a different bridesmaid each time. She made me feel so comfortable and like family, which was so nice because I didn't have family that could be with me. After having many top contenders I knew I found the perfect dress.

The new Mr. and Mrs. Tauland Kruja honeymooned in London, England and then took a small cruise out of Southampton, England to Paris, France and Brussels, Belgium.

Vendors

Photographer: Oksana Miro Photo

Venue(s): The Ringling | Hyatt Regency Sarasota

Florist: Flowers by Fudgie

Wedding Planner/Coordinator: NK Wedding Productions

Caterer: Modern Events

Hair/Makeup Artist: Femme Akoi

Cake: Cakes by Ron

Dress/Veil: Martina Liana

Ceremony Musicians: Jay Goodley Entertainment

Invitations: Minted

Officiant: A Wedding with Grace

Transportation: Revvies Classics

Seamstress: Kathleen Cooper/Southern Simplicity Gulf Coast

Margaret Ellen bride | MRS. Kelly Thornton

The sweetest native of New York, Kelly McGowan, stepped foot into our little slice of paradise this past August with her cousin and aunt, and we are so thankful she did! Dressing Kelly for her special day was such an honor. Kelly chose a Martina Liana gown while adding the matching veil to complete her look. Kelly married Scott Thornton at Tyler Gardens in Newtown, Pennsylvania. Their day was beautifully captured and truly shows their love for another.

How did you and Scott meet?

We have known each other since 2nd grade!

How did Scott POP the question and ask you to be his forever?

Scott took me to Allentown Rose Garden where he had a friend hiding to take pictures as he got down on one knee in front of a beautiful rose archway.

What is one piece of advice you would give to someone preparing for their wedding day?

HAVE FUN WITH IT and always remember it is YOUR wedding, nobody else’s. Please yourself, not what everyone else wants :)

Why did you choose Margaret Ellen Bridal? How did you know your dress was “the one”?

Once I put on the veil, I knew that was it. I got all the feels!! :D

Vendors

Photographer: Liz Waterman Photography

Venue: Tyler Garden

Florist: Bloom de Fleur

Wedding Planner/Coordinator: Open Aire Affairs

Caterer: Piccolo

Hair/Makeup Artist: Rosa Marchiano

Reception DJ: Capcee

Wedding Dress and Veil: Martina Liana

Officiant: Father Charles Magee

Bridal Photo Shoot featuring Lacey McLaughlin Photography

This past June, the sweetest Fairhope, Alabama photographer reached out to me after seeing MEB on Instagram (how lucky are we to have something to bring us all together?!?). After seeing her work and other shoots she had done, I knew I must go with Lacey for a photo shoot that was in need of happening. Lacey was professional, worked efficiently, and knew how to place the models which made my job so much easier. Finally in September we made the shoot happen (even with the clouds/rain affecting our usually bright studio) and the results are EXACTLY what I wanted and was looking for.

Lacey is no stranger to 30A. She married her love at Eden Gardens in the spring of 2017. Read on to get to know Lacey a little more and give her a follow on Instagram so that you can see the amazing work this talented photographer puts into every shot.

What inspired you to become a photographer? How long have you been in the business of photography? 

I started taking photos for Journalism in high school and really enjoyed the connections I was able to make when the camera was added to the equation. It was almost like it added an extra sense of closeness of getting to know someone because you have to build a sense of trust. Still not sure about what I wanted to be, off to college I went starting out majoring in Journalism. While I enjoyed writing, I realized I wasn't able to express all of my creative aspects. When I switched over to the college of Fine Arts, it was then that I took my first photography class starting out on 35mm film processing in the dark room. This was when I fell in love. Something just clicked. When I was behind the camera, I felt my happiest. I felt invincible and I knew that this would be the path for me. Film is my one true love for personal and portrait work, but when I started photographing weddings immediately after graduating in 2013, I knew I would need something a little more efficient. I second shot my first wedding for a photographer in 2013, moved to California, started my own business in 2014 and have never looked back! I've been a photographer for 5 years now. 

What does a day in the life of running your business look like? 

Well, to be honest, each day looks pretty different. It also depends on what time of year it is because Spring and Fall are the busiest times for me with wedding season being the most abundant then. I travel around to Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida for photo shoots throughout the year, mostly on weekends. During the week, on an average day, I am at my new studio (celebrating it's 1 year opening October 20th) answering emails, listening to music, meeting with potential brides/grooms, and editing. LOTS of editing

What sets your photography apart from others? 

This is a hard one, but I would say it's all about the energy I emit through the camera. Each person responds uniquely to me as a photographer and if I'm either doing well or having a tough time, that shows in the photos. I try to bring my best self to every shoot so that I can bring that beautiful & positive light out in my subjects. I also like to take a more modern approach with weddings and all my work, while capturing those candid natural moments that are full of emotion as well. Whether it's happy, energetic, sad, loving, or plain honest; the emotion is what I'm after. 

What can brides expect if they hire you as their photographer? 

Beautiful photos that capture the unique essence of them TWO! Each couple is unique, and I never show up to a wedding day knowing what the outcome of my photos will look like. Some couples are loving, touchy, and some aren't. I want to capture their day in the best way possible. If it's raining, the photos will be a bit moodier. If it's hot and sweaty, we roll with the punches and find shade where we can. If I step in an ant pile during a first look (true story), I kick my shoes off, squeal and keep shooting. I never want to miss a moment. But most of all, my brides can expect honest and loving photos that make each of their unique personalities shine!

What is the biggest tip you would give to a bride for her big day? 

Be in the moment. Be in love. Don't worry about how you look when you're laughing or crying or feeling any kind of way. Talk to your love. Don't worry about the camera. These true moments between you and your spouse are the ones that make the most beautiful photos. Soak it all in. Don't worry about the little details. Give your phone to your bridesmaids. Dance your heart out. Eat the cake. Stop for a moment (or two) to take it all in. This may be the only day of your life when you have every single person you love and who loves you all in the same room celebrating your love. What could be better?!

Visit her website to learn more:

www.laceymclaughlin.com

New Wedding Dresses Coming to 30A, Destin, Panama City Area?

You bet they are! 

We are so excited to finally share the exciting news! Margaret Ellen Bridal now offers the ever so popular wedding dress line, Essense of Australia, to northwest Florida brides. 

Do you know Martina Liana? Perfect! Essense of Australia is Martina's sister collection. Why did we include Essense of Australia? At Margaret Ellen Bridal, our main focus is the BRIDE and making her HAPPY. Essense of Australia embodies details and beauty just as Martina Liana does but with a bit of a lower price point. We want to be able to cater to all brides, and Essense is a company that we have grown to love, adore, and trust. Therefore, it is a no-brainer that Essense of Australia is the best addition to Margaret Ellen Bridal. We know our brides will think so, too! 

Twice a year, we travel to Kansas City to the home office of Essense Designs. This is where we view the latest collections from Martina Liana and Essense of Australia. We are also treated like royalty with wonderful food, treats (hello ice-cream cookies), drinks, gifts, dinner, entertainment, and informative trainings. It's also fun to see familiar faces from stores we have met in the past and meet new store owners and managers. We returned from our trip two weeks ago and it did not disappoint. The excitement of getting to pick out the hottest and newest wedding dresses is an all time high. Getting to pick out an additional 15 wedding dresses from a new line really adds to that high. But then.... when you hear and see that the lead designer and founder of Essense Designs, Martine Harris, is there the excitement goes through the roof. To meet and learn from someone who is so known, appreciated, and valued in the bridal industry is incredible. What makes Martine even better (other than her amazing accent)? Family. How much family means to her. Her own family, her Essense family and even their own families, her stores, and her brides. There were numerous times when Martine would walk up to us to just make sure that we were having a great time and to chat. Her character and how personable she is radiates and sets her company apart from so many others. It was truly a magical time, and we already look forward to our return to Kansas City this winter. 

While we cannot yet show you the newest gowns, we will show you some of our favorite Essense of Australia carryovers that are in store now and others that will be in store early September. We are in love with these gorgeous dresses! 

As we end, we get the question "How do you pick which wedding dresses you carry?" a lot. To answer simply, it is so very hard choosing. Honestly, last October, my mom, best friend, and I chose based on what we liked and what we would wear. Sidenote: My mom has really surprised me with her picks. She even likes the sexy cutouts and deep plunges. Go mom! After having being opened for seven months, our strategy has somewhat changed. It has gotten easier. Of course wedding dresses that we love and would wear still catch our eye, and yes, we still choose some of our favorites. We now know what you, our brides, want and love, and that guides us to make the best picks possible for Margaret Ellen Bridal. Buying wedding gowns each season is such a highlight and seeing what is on-trend is amazing. 

We cannot wait to show you both our Martina Liana and Essense of Australia picks that will arrive this October and November. Stay tuned and follow us on Instagram to see when they hit the store. 

Cheers! 
Maggie