Social media has been abuzz about Olivia Palermo’s look at her private elopement ceremony in Bedford Hills, New York. The city girl/ style maven came up with her perfect look which included a trio of pieces by Carolina Herrera, including cashmere sweater, shorts and tulle skirt—along with those fabulous sapphire Manolo Blahnik shoes, first sported by Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw in her civil ceremony to Mr. Big.
The new Mrs. Huebl embraced what many of us have long known—that small private affairs offer a rare opportunity to embrace one’s own style and customs. As I often tell my couples, some of the most emotionally powerful ceremonies that I facilitate are small (or even private). Without the distractions of a “big event”–flowers, first dances, seating charts and all the rest–the couple can relax and focus on the primary purpose of the day: making lifetime promises. There is a heft and gravity to the words that may be lost when overwhelmed by a larger occasion. Likewise, without all of the hoopla of a big wedding, brides can embrace their personal style. I draw a few such examples of little weddings with big style. Whether my ladies went with a short dress, a color over white or ivory, or an unusual style all their own, the freedom connected with a small ceremony gave way to personal preferences in apparel, as well as other aspects of the day. Brava to Ms. Palermo! And all of my stylish brides, too!
