If you’ve been following along on Instagram, then you probably know that I got engaged to this gorgeous man last year. You may have also seen the announcement last week that we’ve been chosen as this year’s couple for BRIDES Live Wedding! Each year, BRIDES puts on a dream wedding for one lucky couple and this year, it’s us!! The date is set for August 4th and we couldn’t be more excited for our big day. But here’s the really fun part…
YOU get to help us plan it! Voting has kicked off over on the @Brides Instagram stories using the fun polling feature. Check out their stories each day to vote on the 8 categories:
- The decor
- The Maggie Sottero dress I’ll wear
- My Sexy Hair hairstyle
- Shola’s Men’s Warehouse style
- The Bridesmaid dress style from Plum Pretty Sugar
- Bridesmaid jewelry from Kendra Scott
- Our Crate & Barrel registry aesthetic
- Our Cayman Islands honeymoon activity
Now, I know what you’re thinking. How could she let America pick her wedding dress!? But here’s the thing, I would have been trying on dresses forever because I love so many different styles…and I love shopping! This opportunity has taken off so much of the pressure of wedding planning for us, and allowed us to just enjoy being engaged. We have the insanely talented Brooke Keegan doing the planning (she has planned stunning weddings for high profile athletes and celebs, no big deal!) , not to mention the entire BRIDES editorial team (hello, impeccable taste). Plus, I’ll be weighing in with our favorites for each category on my own Instagram stories and reminding you to vote so you can help ensure our dream wedding comes to life. Be sure to follow me @waityouneedthis so you don’t miss a thing!
Keep scrolling for an excerpt of my interview with BRIDES magazine and catch Shola and I in the May issue on newsstands now!
BRIDES: Why are you excited to be a part of BRIDES Live Wedding?
Janelle: We aren’t the type to throw big parties for ourselves, especially since my mom is undergoing breast cancer treatment. [We’re happy to say she’s now a survivor!] Brides will help us plan a celebration fitting of the love we share.
BRIDES: What’s your vision for the big day?
Janelle: We’re not overly traditional, so I’d love for our wedding to feel relaxed. I love an outdoor bohemian setting, palm trees, tropical vibes with a shot of glamour. Signature his and hers cocktails and a dessert truck have always been a part of my yes-list as well!
BRIDES: How do you like the venue BRIDES selected, Montage Palmetto Bluff in South Carolina?
Janelle: I couldn’t be happier about it. I’m obsessed with all the Spanish moss in Palmetto Bluff, plus my dad’s parents moved to New York from South Carolina so it’s a meaningful location for my family. Random, but one of my wishes was to have a fire pit at the rehearsal dinner and they have an area with three pits and a s’mores roast!
BRIDES: What gets your heart pounding when you think of your wedding?
Janelle: Aside from marrying the man of my dreams? I can’t wait to see how it all comes together with BRIDES at the helm!
You can read my full interview with BRIDES, including proposal details right here!
On Janelle:ASILIO Dress / ZARA heels
Images by Jenny Fu