This Bride Walked Down the Aisle with the Man Who Received Her Dad's Heart

If you’re a bride who’s close to her pops, you probably couldn’t imagine not having your father walk you down the aisle on the big day. Not only is it tradition, but it’s a monumental milestone that’s bound to stir up a bevy of emotions in both of you and your dear old dad. And us, as well! That father/daughter walk down the aisle pretty much always has us reaching for the tissues! But there aren’t enough Kleenex in the world to catch our tears while watching this Pennsylvania bride make her grand entrance. Although Jeni Stepien’s father was unable to physically walk her down the aisle after his tragic death, he still did so in spirit — as Stepien was escorted down the aisle by the man who received her father’s donated heart. We’re not crying, you’re crying…

In September 2006, Stepien’s father was shot and killed after a robbery attempt, and his family had his organs donated. His heart went to a New Jersey man named Arthur Thomas, who had been diagnosed with ventricular tachycardia 16 years before and was in congestive heart failure when his transplant came through. “He was going to die if he did not receive a new heart in the next several days,” the bride explained to The Huffington Post.

Thomas survived thanks to the Stepien family, and stayed in touch with them via letters and phone calls. Almost a decade later, Stepien was engaged. “When my fiancé proposed, one of the first things I thought of was ‘But who will walk me down the aisle?’ I could think of nobody more meaningful than Tom,” she said. “My fiancé suggested I write him a letter. That way Tom would feel in no way obligated or pressured by my request.”

See More: Watch This Groom Totally Surprise His Bride With an Epic Wedding Dance

And that’s how Thomas made the trek from New Jersey to Pennsylvania, without a lick of hesitation, to walk Stepien down the aisle. “I felt wonderful about bringing her dad’s heart to Pittsburgh,” Thomas declared to The New York Times. “If I had to, I would’ve walked.”

Thomas met Stepien and her family for the first time just a day ahead of the wedding, where he had the bride touch her fingers to his wrist. “I thought that would be the best way for her to feel close to her dad,” Thomas said. “That’s her father’s heart beating.”

The next day — the big day — Thomas walked Stepien down the church aisle and before he passed her off to her fiancé, she touched his chest to feel her father’s heart beating once more.

“The murder and the wedding happened within a three-block radius” the bride explained. “And I was just thinking, ‘My dad is here with us, and this man is here with us because of us.'”

Cue the waterworks…

See More: 21 Photos of Fathers Walking Their Daughters Down the Aisle

The Pros and Cons of Dating Each Zodiac Sign

pros and cons of dating each zodiac sign

Photo: Getty Images

Since each zodiac sign has its own unique set of characteristics and quirks, it’s helpful to have a guide for what to expect when dating someone. The more information you have, even if it’s from the stars, the better.

Which sign will make you laugh your ass off and which will never return your texts? Here are the pros and cons of dating each sign.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Pros: Aries are up for any adventure and are very fun. Their energy is contagious and the chemistry between you is AMAZING.
Cons: They can be way too hard on themselves and will shut you out during those times. They’re notorious for not returning emails, calls and texts.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
Pros: Taureans are very loveable and will make you feel safe and protected. There’s a good chance they can cook like nobody’s business, but even if they can’t, they know how to make mac and cheese like a boss.
Cons: They can get stuck sometimes and not want to do anything. If you’re someone who doesn’t do well with stubborn people, you may want to stay away from a Taurus; their stubbornness is legendary.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Pros: You’ll never get bored dating a Gemini. They’re super-smart, are great talkers and they’ll always put your needs and feelings first.
Cons: Because Geminis are so intelligent, they can be know-it-alls and unintentionally make you feel intellectually inferior. They also have a habit of overthinking things and getting upset for the wrong reasons.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Pros: Cancers will treat you right and you can trust them with anything. Tell them all your secrets, it’s OK. Cancers are always the sign that excels at commitment.
Cons: Can you say mood swings? One minute they couldn’t be happier and the next they’re in a dark place. And forget about trying to get them to tell you what’s wrong. Defensiveness, thy name is Cancer.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Pros: There are so many fantastic things about Leos: their humor, their ability to make things exciting and fun, and how they’re super-hot. You’ll make the best memories with a Leo.
Cons: Leos aren’t known for their sensitivity regarding other people’s feelings, and without meaning to they can be kind of a jerk. When they hurt, good luck trying to get them to take responsibility for it.

See More:
7 Brutal Truths About Loving a Capricorn (As Written By One)

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Pros: Virgos can be the sweetest people ever and will always consider your feelings. They’re adorable in the way they can be so serious and grown up. They’re reliable and will never you stand up or make you find your own way home.
Cons: They can tend to be overly sensitive and doubt your sincerity when you try to help them to feel better about themselves.

Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Pros: Libras are the best kissers in the zodiac and you know the stars don’t lie. They’re also excellent flirts and will make you feel attractive and vibrant.
Cons: They hate conflict, so rather than break up with you face-to-face, they’ll just ghost you and you’ll never know what set them off. Libras will sometimes tease you well past the time it gets annoying.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
Pros: When you connect with a Scorpio it’s usually at a very deep level and everything is intense — that includes sexually and emotionally. Like everything with a Scorpio, dating is done with passion.
Cons: Intensity: it’s both a pro and a con. Scorpios can get so intense and serious that it can be overwhelming and a little scary. Sometimes a hook-up is just that and isn’t meant to be a huge, melodramatic deal.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Pros: Sagittarians are really fun, funny, and upbeat. They’re a good time in the form of a star sign. They’re totally up for new experiences and they love connecting with new people mentally.
Cons: They’re stimulated by new things, so it can be challenging to get them to settle down and commit. They give off a lot of mixed signals, so good luck knowing where you stand.

See More: 11 Brutal Truths About Loving a Libra (As Written By A Libra)

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
Pros: You don’t have to worry about a Capricorn being faithful to you, for they’re completely trustworthy and loyal. They won’t wait for holidays or your birthday to make you feel special, and will be forever giving you flowers and gifts for no occasion whatsoever.
Cons: They can be really controlling and you may feel stifled. Capricorns can be manipulative without even being aware of it.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)
Pros: An Aquarius will surprise you with their constant stream of unique thoughts. They’re always up for trying new things, whether it’s a new restaurant or club. When you’re seeing an Aquarius, you’ll always feel comfortable and at ease. You can be your true self with an Aquarius.
Cons: Sometimes Aquarians are too much in their head and very little in their heart; emotions can be a little troublesome for them. They can also get weirdly aggressive if they’re not the person in charge in a situation.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)
Pros: Pisces will completely understand you and your sensitivity. They’ll make you laugh until you pee, and will not only be your bae but your best friend as well.
Cons: They can be ultra sensitive, becoming closed up without explaining what you did or said to make them so hurt and angry. There could be major miscommunication issues.

See More: Who You Have The BEST Sex With, According To Your Zodiac Sign

This article originally appeared on YourTango.

BRIDES Philadelphia: 5 Beautiful Outdoor Wedding Venues in Philly

Awbury Arboretum Wedding Venue

Photo: Courtesy of Awbury Arboretum

It’s a little-known fact that the City of Brotherly Love is referred to as America’s Garden Capital, but it’s no surprise that so many brides-to-be choose to get hitched in a lush garden wedding venue. For brides who want to be surrounded by beautiful flowers and vibrant greenery when they say “I do,” these outdoor venues in Philadelphia won’t disappoint.

Awbury Arboretum (Above)
A secret garden, wildflower meadows, towering trees, and wondrous wetlands make this tranquil 55-acre arboretum in Germantown perfectly picturesque. The venue can hold weddings of up to 200 guests and gives access to the Francis Cope House’s foyer, three parlors, and front lawns. Read real brides’ reviews here!

Philadelphia Magic Garden

Photo: Philadelphia’s Magic Garden

Philadelphia’s Magic Garden
Philly brides-to-be looking for a really unique (and a little bit funky!) venue will fall in love with this whimsical haven. Intimate weddings can unfold in the outdoor labyrinth, which is completely decked out in glittering mosaic tiles in different eye-catching colors. Think of all the beautiful photo ops for you and your new spouse! Read real brides’ reviews here!

Morris Arboretum Wedding Venue

Photo: Courtesy of Morris Arboretum

Morris Arboretum
With its fragrant magnolia trees, blooming roses, glimmering fountains, and lushly landscaped grounds, the sprawling 92-acre Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania is the perfect plush space for an alfresco summer wedding. Exchange vows in one of its romantic gardens and toast your nuptials in the Victorian Carriage House. Read real brides’ reviews here!

See More: Complement Your Outdoor “I Do” Locale with Beautiful Blooms from Philly’s Top Florists

Bartrams Garden Wedding Venue

Photo: Diverse Catering via Instagram

Bartram’s Garden
If you’ve always dreamed of tying the knot at a National Historic Landmark, Bartram’s Garden is the venue for you. Distinguishing features of the 45-acre space include the Common Flower Garden where ceremonies take place, the Bartram Barn (the oldest barn in Philly!) where guests can mingle over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, and the beautiful Coach House that’s perfect for a reception. Read real brides’ reviews here!

Physick House and Garden Wedding Venue

Photo: Courtesy of Physick House and Garden

Physick House and Garden
Rich with history, this beautiful brick house built in 1786 (the last freestanding Federal townhouse in Society Hill) is where Dr. Philip Syng Physick treated elite patients like Dolley Madison and President Andrew Jackson. Parties in the house’s dream-like garden accommodate up to 100 guests for dinner — and dancing under the stars.

More of an indoor girl? These other beautiful Philadelphia venues are definitely worth a look.

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BRIDES' 30 Day Wedding Shape-Up Challenge: Day 9, Snap Your Food

30 Day Wedding Workout Day 9

Photo: Getty Images

This is it… The final countdown to your big day. And along with settling those last few details — figuring out where to seat your eccentric Uncle Carl, firming up the flowers, deciding on your first dance song — you’re likely also making one last push to make sure the body that will be wearing that gorgeous white gown looks as good as it possibly can. You and nearly every other woman with an engagement ring on her finger. In fact, research shows that an overwhelming 91 percent of brides-to-be are anxious about their weight. But from here on out, you won’t have to be!

Whether you want to drop those last few pounds or look more toned — or both — we’ve got a month’s worth of daily tips (none of which require starving yourself or working out nonstop!) that will help you feel stunning and confident when you walk down that aisle. You know where to send the thank-you card. Let’s get started!

Day 9: Snap Your Food

If you struggle with keeping your diet on track (who doesn’t?), then this insanely effective trick is a must-do: Take a photo of every meal and snack you eat and send it to a supportive friend, coworker or family member. (You can offer to do the same for them.)

It’s a powerful motivational tool that Rachel Beller, R.D., of Beller Nutritional Institute, uses with her clients. “Having that accountability is like magic. I’m not kidding! It’s amazing how clients stop and think about what they’re doing. They put together a healthier plate because they know they’re going to be showing it off and getting feedback from me,” says Beller.

“I had one client who was on vacation in New Orleans and she sent me a picture of a beignet. She easily could have had three or four of them, but because she knew she had to send that photo, she just had one and really savored it.”

A study at the University of Illinois found that for women, being accountable to someone else and receiving social support is vital for weight loss success — especially during “life transitions” like getting married (ahem). Women who had a cheerleader lost far more weight and were able to keep it off compared to those who didn’t.

See More: 3 Things Your Fitness Instructor Is Secretly Thinking During Class

So, keep your smartphone handy and snap, text and succeed.

Wedding Band Shopping 101: 5 Key Things to Consider

Most brides have likely hinted to their future husbands about what type of engagement ring they’d like when the special time comes, but didn’t actually partake in the shopping and selection. But that all changes when it’s time to shop for wedding bands. Take advantage of being able to select the special symbolic piece together this time around by considering these important factors before you say “I do” to the perfect wedding ring.

Budget
This is the most important decision that needs to be made before you head to the jewelry store. While most couples go shopping for wedding bands in the throes of wedding planning, it’s so important to “know before you go.” Trust us, it’s easy to get carried away surrounded by stunning sparklers, but by having a discussion about cost beforehand, you’ll be able to stay within your means, stress-free, and pick out the perfect rings for both of you.

Metal
While shopping for the perfect band to compliment your engagement ring, many brides-to-be opt for matching metals to complete their left-handed ensemble. Others opt to mix yellow gold, rose gold, platinum, white gold, and more (SO on trend at the moment) for an eclectic mash-up. Whichever you choose, knowing the metal you are looking for can help guide you in shopping and selecting the ring, as well as your budget, too.

Shape
Would you like your band to rest flush against your engagement ring? Do you want it big enough to stand out on its own, or to perfectly match in width? Does the setting of your engagement ring allow for an “underneath” fit, or do you need a custom divot or contour to accommodate wearing both? On the surface these types of questions may seem like minutia, but it’s important to cover all bases to make sure BOTH rings fit comfortably, and in the best way unique to them.

Style
Pavé, eternity, stacked, contour, enhancer, hand-engraved… The list goes on, but these are all terms you should be familiar with before beginning the hunt. Knowing the style and cuts you favor before you shop is a must to help guide your selections. Just remember to keep an open mind, and try on things that otherwise may not have caught your eye, as you may end up with something you haven’t yet envisioned. (Just like when wedding dress shopping!)

Lifestyle
Are you tough on your hands? Do you work with materials that can be harmful to your jewelry? Are you a lefty or righty? These are questions that you may not have considered previously, but they’re important to think about now. (Especially if you’re considering a diamond eternity band!) By communicating this information to the jewelry store, they can help guide you to the right styles and metals for you. Bonus idea for brides that love bling: Opt for a secondary, economical single gold band to sport on more casual, adventurous or physical occasions.

See More: 70 Amazing Engagement Ring Selfies

5 Must-Know Tips for Using a Friend as Your Wedding Officiant

tips for using a friend as the officiant

Photo: Readyluck

It’s incredibly popular to have a friend or family member perform the wedding ceremony. We can credit Joey from NBC’s hit Friends for teaching all of America how to get ordained online when he married Monica and Chandler in 2001. That was really the first time most people realized you could be married by somebody other than a real religious person, judge, or Justice of the Peace.

Since then, there has been an explosion of quasi-religious organizations hawking online ordinations, and providing the necessary paperwork for anyone to legally perform weddings. In some places, the officiant needs to register with the state, county, or municipality, but as a general rule, the entire process isn’t difficult or expensive. In fact, it’s frequently less expensive than hiring a local minister.

We’ve seen lots of brides and grooms married by friends over the years, and most of the time the ceremony is very personal and touching. Unfortunately, the most memorable wedding ceremonies have been conducted by well-meaning “officiants” who have never performed an actual wedding ceremony before, and essentially have no idea what they’re doing. So it make sure your wedding ceremony is the best it can be, follow these five tips if you’re using a friend as your wedding officiant.

1. Plan your own wedding ceremony and leave room for your officiant to add their own touch.
As the ceremony probably isn’t guided by a particular religious tradition, it’s up to the bride and groom to decide which blessings, lessons and, most especially, vows are appropriate for them.

2. Choose someone mature enough.
Your funniest friend may be a better choice for your toast than your actual wedding ceremony. Those vows you’re exchanging mean something and shouldn’t be treated like a stand-up routine.

See More: Celebrities Who Officiated Their Famous Friends’ Weddings

3. Make sure you practice with your officiant before the wedding rehearsal.
This is especially important if you don’t have a wedding planner running things for you. An inexperienced officiant who doesn’t know where to stand, or how to time things, can make your altar area looking like a hokey-pokey dance floor. Also, your wedding party will be looking to the officiant for guidance on the wedding day because you will be busy getting married.

4. Bring extra copies of your ceremony to the rehearsal, and the wedding.
I can’t even count how many guest officiants didn’t bring a copy of the wedding ceremony that the bride and groom had emailed to them. A wedding planner will likely have a copy with them, but you certainly shouldn’t count on that, or you could find yourself in a very difficult situation.

5. Give them some guidance on what to wear.
You don’t want them to clash with your wedding party, and you don’t want them to appear overdressed, or underdressed, compared to the rest of the people in the ceremony photos.

Sandy Malone is the owner of Sandy Malone Weddings & Events and author of How to Plan Your Own Destination Wedding: Do-It-Yourself Tips from an Experienced Professional. Sandy is the star of TLC’s reality show Wedding Island, about her destination wedding planning company, Weddings in Vieques.

6 Must-Pack Items for Your Resort Honeymoon

Resort Honeymoon Packing List

Photo: Getty Images

It’s to get overwhelmed as you begin the process of packing for you’re about to head off on your honeymoon — especially if your packing immediately pre- or post- wedding! Luckily, resort-style honeymoons are often the easiest to pack for — just be sure to include these six things before you head off on your first trip as newlyweds. Bon Voyage!

Versatile Cover-Up
With tons of options to choose from, shopping for swim cover-ups is just as fun as shopping for the swimsuit itself! From super sexy to conservative, having one or two perfect pieces to throw on when you get out of the water is essential. Consider choosing at least one option that can take you from the lounge chair to the restaurant, and even into town (meaning its a style / fabric that you’ll feel comfortable in while not in the resort setting). By having at least one of these pieces, you avoid having to run back to the room for a wardrobe change.

Headwear
Doesn’t it seem like everyone wears hats in the airport? There’s a good reason for it! Having a fashionable hat, headband, or scarf is not only a trendy look for vacationers, but also a practical choice. Shield your face and hair from the sun while looking stylish and carefree (and leave the bad hair days at home) by rocking a trendy fedora, chic floppy sun hat, or colorful headscarf.

Sunglasses
Whatever you do, don’t forget these at home! Whether you spring for a new pair for the occasion, or are relying on your trusty years-old RayBan aviators to do the trick, having the right pair (or pairs) of eyewear with you is essential to not only being poolside chic, but protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays, too. Be sure to select a pair that not only suits your face shape and style, but also offers quality sun and environmental protection (after all, that is the point of sunglasses — they’re not just fabulous accessories).

Swimwear Wash
Trust us on this one. While the last thing you’re thinking of is laundry before you set off on your honeymoon, it’s the most practical thing you can pack. Pack a lingerie wash or swimwear specific wash in a travel sized bottle so you can make the most use of the items you pack. Unless you want to pack a different suit for each day of your honeymoon — which we also fully support.

The Right Sandals
Whether they’re your Havaianas rubber flip-flops, trendy embellished leather sandals or your trusty Birkenstock slides, selecting footwear that can take you from the beach, to pool, to dinner will not only save space in your suitcase, but also stress and excess baggage. In a perfect world, we could have a different pair of shoes for every ensemble — but that weight limit on luggage is real, ladies. Selecting pairs that are versatile, high quality, and comfortable will enable you and your happy feet, and hubby to focus on what’s important — each other.

Before & After-Sun Lotion
Packing your favorite, reliable sunscreen is a given — just remember that the sun and UV rays can affect you differently in different parts of the world. The second most important thing you can put on regarding sun exposure (obviously sunscreen comes first) is after-sun lotion, which will hydrate and moisturize your skin after a day in the sun, and may help to take the sting out of burns, too. Prevent damage, peeling and quick fading tans by properly caring for your skin before, and after.

See More: Honeymoon Gifts to Surprise Your Spouse

Mila Kunis Doesn't Wear Her Engagement Ring — and This is Where She Keeps It

mila kunis posing without ring

Photo: Getty Images

After hearing that Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher spent only $90 on their custom Etsy wedding bands, we figured that she was one of the most unique celebrity brides. But wait until you hear what she is doing with her engagement ring!

During an interview with the Australian morning radio show, Kyle & Jackie O, Kunis revealed that not only does she not wear her engagement ring, a classic, prong-set round-cut diamond from Tiffany and Co., but she keeps it locked away in a safety deposit box for safe keeping, The Daily Mail reports.

“My engagement ring is in a safety deposit box,” Kunis told the radio show, “I can’t wear this because someone’s going to chop my hand off for it.”

Mila Kunis Engagement Ring

Photo: Getty Images

To make matters even more confusing, she went on to say that the couple decided on cheaper wedding bands because she didn’t want them to take away from the “incredibly beautiful engagement ring” Kutcher picked out for her.

“I decided our wedding bands were going to be wonderful and beautiful and simple, and so we got them made on Etsy,” Kunis said. The couple opted to buy their bands from Etsy because the thin platinum bands that they were looking to purchase were so expensive everywhere else.

“Mine is 1mm platinum and his is 2mm yellow gold and made by a wonderful little old lady,” Kunis said of the bands.

While we absolutely agree that sometimes the perfect companion to a stunning engagement ring is a simple wedding band, and hers is undeniably gorgeous, wouldn’t her reasoning for getting the simple bands be voided when she decided to stop wearing her engagement ring?

Regardless, the thin platinum wedding band looks stunning on her and we have no doubt that this subtle, low key look will grow into a wedding ring mega trend inspired by Kunis. But will it beat out the world’s love of giant, flashy diamonds? Only time will tell!

See More: Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher Were Just Caught in a Too-Cute PDA Moment

A Philadelphia Greenhouse Was the Backdrop for One Couple's Colorful Fall Wedding

Christine Agnello and Scott Ellis first met through mutual friends in September of 2010, but it took seven months for the pair to officially become a couple. Three years later, Scott popped the question on the rooftop of the house that he and Christine share. Once she said “Yes!” the future Mr. and Mrs. began planning their dream day in Philadelphia, leaning largely on their own expertise and the team of vendors they had in place. “I didn’t have a wedding planner at all, so I took on all of the planning and coordinating myself,” Christine says. “It was stressful because I wasn’t sure if my vision would come together, but all of my vendors exceeded my expectations!”

With the Fairmount Park Horticulture Center locked in as their venue, Christine and Scott invited 150 guests to join them for a colorful fall wedding on October 10, 2015. “We loved the rustic feel of getting married in a greenhouse and that we had the option have the ceremony outdoors if the weather was warm,” the bride says. Their day went off without a hitch, and thanks to Lauren Fair Photography, we can take a look inside this adorable duo’s poppy-hued party!

Mint, green, and gold are Christine’s favorite colors, so it was only fitting that the couple’s Wedding Paper Diva’s invitation suite featured the three bright hues. To further commemorate their date, Christine and Scott had a rustic wooden sign created with their wedding date. It served as the perfect backdrop for photos of the bride’s beautiful engagement ring and the duo’s wedding bands.

The bride got ready with her ‘maids in low-key fashion: The ladies relaxed with glasses of champagne while having their hair and makeup done, giving Christine the perfect chance to show off her “something blue” manicure.

Christine admits she never had a “magical” dress shopping moment during which she knew she had found her gown. “I just kept going back to the store and trying on the same dress over and over again until one of my best friends said, ‘If you’ve tried it on this many times, I think this is the dress,'” the bride says. The off-white lace style featured an open back and fit Christine like a glove. Although she was meant to complete her look with a pair of blue pumps, she made a last minute decision to wear a pair of comfortable Toms instead. “The heels were sinking into the mud during photos, so I switched to my blue Toms and wore the whole night!”

Her final touch was a bright bouquet of dahlias, succulents, billy balls, and eucalyptus, as well as an all-white flower crown — the latter of which almost didn’t make it to the wedding. One of Scott’s groomsmen was tasked with picking up the wedding flowers, driving the bouquets to the ladies, and then bringing the boutonnieres back to the guys. While the bouquets arrived without trouble, it wasn’t until the groom’s attendant made it back to the hotel that the bride realized her flower crown hadn’t been delivered. “He didn’t have enough time to come back so he sent it with an Uber driver instead,” Christine says. But the drama didn’t end there. “The driver couldn’t find out house, so he actually just handed the bag with the flower crown to a random person walking on the street. That person just so happened to be my photographer, so it all worked out, but that was stressful.”

Scott wore a blue suit and a mint green bowtie — which he learned how to tie specifically for the big day. “He’s always wanted to learn how to tie a bowtie, so it was really special for him that he learned how to do it for his wedding,” Christine says. His succulent and billy ball boutonniere complemented his bride’s beautiful arrangement.

Christine had two main requirements for her bridesmaids’ dresses: First, they needed to be comfortable, and second, she didn’t want anyone to spend more than they could afford to. “I love the mismatched look, so I gave them a range of blue and green colors as options and let them all find their own dresses,” the bride says. “It was just a coincidence that everyone ended up wearing full-length dresses. I was so happy with how it all came together!”

To tie their looks together, each attendant carried a natural bouquet with the same blooms as the bride’s.

Like Christine, Scott wanted to give his attendants flexibility in choosing their outfits, too. Each guy chose his own shirt, pants, and bowtie, but all wore the same vest, which went well the duo’s rustic theme.

Since the weather didn’t quite agree with the bride and groom, the duo exchanged vows inside the property’s plant-filled greenhouse. At the end of a long aisle, a wooden structure was decorated with draped fabric and a swag of greenery, succulents, and colorful flowers.

On each seat, guests found a paper cone filled with colorful pom poms that were to be tossed once Christine and Scott were officially husband and wife.

The couple decided to write their own vows, which was one of the most special moments of the day for both the bride and groom. “We didn’t know what the other person was going to write and we ended up both saying, ‘My heart is yours forever.’ It was such an amazing moment knowing that we were both thinking the same thing,” says the bride.

Fittingly, the newly minted husband and wife recessed to Colbie Caillat’s “I Do.”

Playing off their greenhouse venue, the bride and groom directed guests to their seats with escort cards that were tucked into mini potted succulents that also doubled as favors.

The greenhouse was transformed for the couple’s evening ceremony. Round tables surrounded the black and white checkered dance floor and a long wooden table was set in the back of the reception for the wedding party. Each table was decorated with blue bud vases filled with flowers.

Over the head table, a hanging chandelier of single-stemmed flowers lent a romantic, whimsical vibe to the space. To designate their chairs, Christine and Scott chose painted “Mr.” and “Mrs.” signs.

The couple’s festive signature cocktail was a mix of gin, lemon juice, and prosecco, and was aptly dubbed “Gin + Bubbles.” Guests dug into a butternut squash and burrata salad as well as short rib and branzino entrées.

The duo selected homey flavors for their blue and white ombré wedding cake: Tiers were made of blueberry buttermilk cake with peach curd and honey buttercream and red velvet cake with honey buttercream.

“Just focus on each other and forget the rest,” Christine, who honeymooned in Signapore and Bali, advises future brides. “It’s not worth it to stress about something that no one will notice. It’s just one day of your life and the best is yet to come. Seriously!”

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Fairmount Park Horticulture Center || Floral & Event Designer: Belovely || Bride’s Wedding Dress: Katie May, purchased at Lovely Bride || Shoes: Toms || Hair & Makeup: Philly Hair and Makeup Co. || Groom’s Attire: Henry A. Davidsen || Engagement Ring: Deborah Finn Rittenhouse Jewelers || Wedding Bands: Safian & Rudolph Jewelers || Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas || Music: CTO Tribeca || Catering: Starr Catering Group || Cake: Saylormade || Rentals: Maggpie Vintage Rentals || Videographer: Willow Tree Films || Photographer: Lauren Fair Photography

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Did you love this couple’s wedding? Then check out another Philadelphia celebration in the video below.

Can We Just Decide That All Children Get a Kids' Meal at Our Wedding?

While it’s always nice to be able to offer your guests a choice of entrées at your reception, finding out what they’d like to eat is an extra detail you need to keep track of as RSVPs roll in. Offering a kids’ meal can complicate things even further: The option isn’t usually included on RSVP cards, which means you’ll need to get in touch with any guests with children directly to figure out whether their kids will want a children’s or adult’s meal. And then there’s the cost! That filet is definitely pricier than chicken fingers, and it can be hard to accept that your cousin’s seven-year-old will enjoy (or finish!) the fancier dish. So are brides and grooms allowed to decide all kids get the kids’ meal, no matter what? Our experts weigh in.

Whether it’s a matter of cost or merely simplicity, a couple can definitely decide that all kids get a kids’ meal instead of serving them adult options. However, the detail you’ll have to address is what makes someone qualify as a “kid.” A safe bet is to say that any guests under age 12 receive kids’ meals, while teens will get adult meals. Think of it as the wedding reception equivalent of sitting at the kids’ table or the adult’s table at Thanksgiving!

Do you have guests whose two children flank that age cut-off (say, an 11- and 14-year-old)? In this case, you may want to ask the parents. Let them know that you will be serving kids’ meals to all guests under 12, and that you want to confirm if their older child would prefer a kids’ meal as well.

You will also want to make sure you find out about any and all allergies the children at your wedding might have. While adults are well-versed in confirming whether a dish contains an ingredient they’re allergic to, kids haven’t had quite as much practice, and their parents will appreciate the extra precaution.

See more: Can I Bring My Son or Daughter as My Plus-One?