You had us at ombré feathers. The presentation of Kelly Faetanini’s Fall 2013 collection ended with this finale gown, and we think it’s pure magic. The silk satin fit to flare silhouette is exquisitely finished with hand-dyed ombré feathers. It’s fit for a queen, or rather just the right bride who is ready to knock her groom’s socks off.

Now that he has added the perfect sparkle to your ensemble, it’s time to capture it all on film. There’s nothing like an engagement session to celebrate your love, while also getting comfortable with your wedding photographer prior to the big day. Here’s a little inspiration, along with a few tips and tricks, to ensure your engagement photos capture you and your loved one in just the right light…

1. Location, location, location. Choose a meaningful spot, even if you have to travel.

(Photo credit: Jel Photography)

(Photo credit: Jel Photography)

2. Toss a sweet sign into the mix to help get the point across.

(Photo credit: Ashlee Raubach Photography)

3. Get cozy and snuggle on a blanket.

(Photo credit: Erin Hearts Court)

(Photo credit: Shannen Norman Photography)

4. Be yourselves and express your personal style.

(Photo credit: Elizabeth Messina | Kiss the Groom)

(Photo credit: Elizabeth Messina | Kiss the Groom)

5. Hold Hands.

(Photo credit: Ciara Richardson Photography)

(Photo credit: Jose Villa)

6. Get in the spirit! Pack a picnic and bring fun props.

(Photo credit: Rebecca Kline)

(Photo credit:Kate Murphy Photography)

7. Incorporate your furry friends. They’re far too important not to, no?

(Photo credit: White Loft Studio)

(Photo credit: Yuliya M. Photography)

8. Don’t be afraid to show your serious side.

(Photo credit: Erin Hearts Court)

(Photo credit: Priscila Valentina)

9. Jump on the bed! Or just snuggle in it.

(Photo credit: Elizabeth Messina | Kiss the Groom)

(Photo credit: Elizabeth Messina | Kiss the Groom)

10. Most importantly, keep it simple.

(Photo credit: White Loft Studio)

Of the Fall 2013 form-fitting gowns, Amsale’s Blythe is one of our very favorites. This lace sheath is amazingly feminine. From the high lace illusion neckline to the small, keyhole opening in the lace at the back, we adore the small details. Even the hemline’s gentle flare, which gives way to a modern train at the heel, is simple but remarkable. We’ve seen plenty of lace on the runways these past couple of years, but we’ll never get tired of seeing it in this silhouette.

With Christmas, New Years, and Valentine’s Day right around the corner, ‘tis the season for men to pop that all-too-important question and for women everywhere to be sporting that new, especially sparkly accessory on their left hand. That’s why we’re rounding up our favorite engagement ring trends for the 2012–13 season…

1.Take a cue from Brad and Angelia with a rectangular emerald cut. It is both contemporary and endlessly elegant, perfect cut for a stylish, modern woman. (Photo credit)

2. Get girly with a peach sapphire set in rose gold or simple touches of rose gold around a traditional diamond. (Photo credit: Left | Right)

3. “Vintage” can apply to many ring styles, but we’re head-over-heels for this antique 0.95 carat marquise diamond engagement ring. (Photo credit)

4. When the world fell in love with the Dutchess of Cambridge, they also fell in love with her classic (very famous) engagement ring. And we’re happy to jump on that bandwagon! A sapphire is the perfect “something blue.” (Photo credit)

5. Don’t be afraid to let your dark side shine. Black and cognac stones might just be the perfect fit. (Photo credit: Left | Right)

6. Go ahead, mix your metals. (Photo credit)

7. We’re coming to expect a peachy pink stone or a canary diamond here and there but truly, any color goes. (Photo source)

8. Some girls just prefer to keep it simple with a single stone bezel set, and we’re totally down with that. (Photo credit)

Emerald was the crown jewel of recent red carpets and runway shows, so after careful evaluation of fresh trends in fashion and textiles, Pantone officially unveiled the green hue as their color of the year for 2013. We’re totally on board. It’s radiant, romantic, and completely alive with vibrant energy. We are thrilled to watch for this deep green to show up in wedding details throughout the year.

Top Row:
Vintage green Porsche via Radikultur.com
Bridal bouquet by Isari Flower Studio + Event Design
Ship with green sails via baenk.com

Middle Row:
Fern wreath via Once Wed
Girl in a green dress via Tumblr
Spools of green thread via Etsy
Chic vintage bride via Twigs & Honey, image by Elizabeth Messina

Bottom Row:
Cucumber-rosemary and gin cocktail by The Kitchn
Green barn via Pinterest
Vintage trophy floral arrangement photographed by Angelica Glass via www.eleGALA.com