Summer Reading List: Wedding Edition

Any new chapter of life can be both exciting and trying. A wedding is absolutely no different! There's no single right way to plan and host a wedding. Thankfully, there are books upon books to answer ALL your questions. With the sunshine shining and the summer breeze flowing, lay down a blanket, bring yummy snacks (aka wine), and open up any of the following enlightening reads for some wedding wisdom!

For the Unconventional Bride

Molly Rosen Guy founded the brand Stone Fox Bride for the bride with an aesthetic that channels Bianca Jagger in a white tux rather than Cinderella in a princess gown. In her book "Stone Fox Bride: Love, Lust, and Wedding Planning for the Wild at Heart," she features personal essays that explore the wedding-planning process. Above all else, she believes that a Stone Fox Bride should never sacrifice her style or sanity to please others. Plus, this book is absolutely darling and would look fabulous on your coffee table or book shelf. ; )

For an LGBTQ Wedding

"The Essential Guide to Gay and Lesbian Weddings" by Tess Ayershas and Paul Brown was originally published when same-sex marriage was just a dream. With same-sex marriage now legal in the U.S. - YAY! - this book includes important words of wisdom, like how to decide what trends and traditions to embrace for your wedding. It's a must-have. Even Melissa Etheridge is a fan!

For the Soul

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Linda Carroll's is behind the acclaimed book, "Love Cycles: The Five Essential Stages of Lasting Love." This must read navigates you through the natural stages of a romantic relationship towards lasting love, which is, of course, the ultimate goal!

Another great read can be found on the Knot. Heather Bien's article, "Worried You Have Engagement Anxiety? Here's How to Handle It" offers some great tips that will help you stay grounded during the wedding-planning process.

For Some Fun Fiction

Jasmine Guillory's novel "The Wedding Date" is the perfect summer read. It's main characters are two high-powered professionals, Alexa Monroe and Drew Nichols. While stuck in an elevator with Drew, a complete stranger, Alexa agrees to play his pretend girlfriend, so Drew doesn't have to go to his ex's wedding alone. According to Entertainment Weekly, it's "A swoony rom-com brimming with humor and charm."

During your wedding planning, always remember to enjoy when things go right and laugh through the inevitable messes ; ) Cheers to your big day and beyond!