Wedding is a word that has become an integral part of my vocabulary over the past two years. I’m at the age where all of those around me are tying the knot and setting high standards for the other brides that follow. While I am not on the train headed towards wedded bliss and a 7 carat emerald cut, I sure enjoy riding along and seeing what the brides choose for their ideal day.

However, weddings should not be a race to out-spend or take the award for the best “wow” factor, instead they should be a reflection of the couple. A true testament to their (well maybe just the bride’s) tastes and personalities. While the weddings below are definitely extravagant, I tend to gravitate towards the ones that have more intimate and personal ambience. Starting with my absolute favorite…

I love the formality and the intimate ambience. Notice the sole use of candles to light the room and different types of white flowers that line the table. This is the wedding of author Danielle Steel’s daughter Vanessa Traina in Steel’s San Francisco home. The photos are by one of my favorite wedding photographers Samuel Lippke Studios and originally appeared in Vogue.

A gorgeous use of gold and blue. The colored floral arrangements are almost a surprise on a table where white flowers would surely be expected.  Photo by Braedon Photography on Style Me Pretty.

As much as I love round tables for talking, there is something so much more glamorous about a long table, especially for displaying height. I couldn’t imagine a prettier use of white orchids on a very tasteful tablecloth. Completely updated and classic.  Photo is by Samuel Lippke Studios on Style Me Pretty.

While not a place setting designed for a wedding, I sure think it would be refreshing in a reception. I love the use of Chinese porcelain patterns for the china and arrangement vase.  Table setting by Scott Snyder. Photo source The Glam Pad.

Look at this. Gold chairs. White Tablecloth. White flowers. A pretty chandelier. So simple, yet so elegant. Less is often more. Photo source: Southern Charm 

Between the boxwoods in the background and the classic chairs with white linens…this is a backyard wedding to make Annie Banks envious. Total soft elegance. Photo source: Pinterest

While Todd Events is based in Dallas, they will throw a grand party all over the globe. How can you not admire the use of blue and white and green (my favorite color combo)?

If I were to get married anywhere tropical, this would be my inspiration. The simple white scheme is only made perfect with the palm leaves on the back of the chars. The differing heights for the flowers allow for across table talk, without sacrificing the need for height on the long tables. Photo source: David Tutera

Here, Todd Events proves once more that they know the art of florals and tablescapes. While I would never choose this color combination on my own, it works together to form a timeless centerpiece. Yolanda Foster and her lemons would approve.

A table runner that drapes with green hydrangeas. Say no more. I am drooling. Also, I’d love your thoughts on acrylic chairs- do you think their moment has passed? I have mixed emotions- I own one, but feel it is often overused these days. Photo source: Bippity Boppity Boo

Blue and White and nothing I don’t like. Classic for any wedding, big or small. Photo source: Luxodefesa

This is so effective. A gorgeous oversized arrangement, yet very uncomplicated. Photo source: Carats & Cake

Chandeliers in bird cages. Just another creative element of Todd Events.

I feel like this tablescape would be ideal for the girl who wears Anthropology dresses and has a really cool and eclectic personality. The branches, lights, colors, and candles give a more earthy and bohemian feel. Photo source: Pinterest

Balls of flowers. This is reminds me of something I would see in the lobby of The Wynn in Las Vegas. It is impossible to not appreciate this true floral creativity.  Photo source: David Tutera

Preston Bailey has a flair for the dramatic, especially when it comes to flowers. These floral candelabra sticks are no exception. Photo source: Luce City Guides

This would be my ultimate rehearsal dinner space. Cafe lights and with lots of greenery. It creates a magical and calm environment, perfect combination for a great party. Photo source is the fabulous Splenderosa blog

Limelight hydrangeas look spectacular in large settings. I love how they used no other flowers or fillers. Photo source: My Favorite and My Best

My good friend Leslie’s wedding. I love the romantic feel of tea lights, differing heights for the flower arrangements, and the phenomenal floral chandelier. Photo by Christina Dandar for The Potted Boxwood.

What a great way to host a Lobster bake or any type of coastal affair. So smart to use the steel buckets as vases. Photo source: Todd Events

Mindy Weiss is a genius at weddings because no details is overlooked. Blue vases and pink florals pop on the black and white striped linens. I really adore this! Photo source: The Bridal Detective.

I appreciate the different flowers (all grouped together consistently) and the different colors and heights. Flowers make a huge difference at weddings. This tablescape is timeless. is Table by Mindy Weiss. Photo source: Inside Weddings 

This tent is flanked by the prettiest flowers. Just hope it doesn’t rain! Photo and design by Mindy Weiss.