As her chart-topping tunes "Our Song" and "Teardrops On My Guitar" have garnered her the role of country music's reigning princess, an American castle was an apt choice for teen sensation Taylor Swift's latest music video, "Love Story." The private residence of Mr. Mike Freeman, who began work on his dream dwelling in 1980, Castle Gwynn in Arrington-Triune, Tennessee magically transforms for a few days each spring into the regal realm of Covington Glen for the Tennessee Renaissance Festival.
The Juliet-inspired garment worn by the Grammy-nominated artist in the video is a familiar sight during festival days as the troupe of knights in shining armor, minstrels, jugglers and wenches arrive to wow the crowd with 16th century entertainment. For those who wish to walk in the footsteps of the country music star, the price of admission to the festival also allows visitors a tour of Castle Gwynn's first floor and grounds.
For more information on the Tennessee Renaissance Festival:
Tennis star Mardy Fish, who said goodbye to his single status back in April with a Las Vegas bachelor party attended by Andy Roddick, said hello to life as a married man on September 28, 2008. Taking place on the grounds of the Four Season's Hotel in Beverly Hills, People magazine reported that six bridesmaids clad in stylish black dresses walked down the red rose petal-lined aisle ahead of Deal or No Deal model Stacey Gardner, whose body-conscious, mermaid-style silhouette showcased her sleek physique as she clutched her bouquet from Mark's Garden and strolled past the 150 guests who stood in her honor.
Eighth ranked tennis ace James Blake, fulfilling his role as a groomsman, and Boston Celtics' power forward Kevin Garnett were among those to bear witness to the half-hour Jewish ceremony (Andy Roddick, battling for victory in the finals of the China Open, was unable to attend). Their vows complete, the music of U2's "Beautiful Day" captured to joy of the moment.
The engagement ring which Deal or No Deal model Stacey Gardner has worn since November 2007 can be seen in the following photo, which was taken just weeks before the wedding as she watched her fiance at the U.S. Open on September 1, 2008.
93908: Kwon Sang-woo and Sohn Tae-young's Wedding (photo)
Actor Kwon Sang-woo, who starred in the hit Stairways to Heaven, walked a pathway to paradise on September 28, 2008 as he made his way to a flower-bedecked tent on the grounds of Shilla Hotel in Seoul, South Korea, where he awaited the arrival of his bride, actress Sohn Tae-young.
According to the Korea Times, 300 guests-- singer Hwang Bo and actors Lee Byeong-hun, So Ji-sub, Lee Jung-jae and Song Seung-heon among them-- looked on as the former Miss Korea made her grand entrance in a strapless wedding dress (reported on the blogosphere as a creation by Kenneth Pool,) the gown's train gently brushing the carpet of pink and white petals that led to her love.
The couple were pronounced husband and wife at the conclusion of a three-hour ceremony which included a performance by singer Jo Sung-mo. Taking their first steps together as a married couple, the newlyweds were greeted outside of the ceremony tent by a shower of petals tossed by family and friends, which seemed to bless the pair's happy union.
Photo of Kwon Sang-woo and Sohn Tae-young's Wedding Day
Actor Kwon Sang-woo and Sohn Tae-young's nuptials on September 28, 2008 also included a conference in order to relay the happy news to reporters. The photo below, taken just outside of the Shilla Hotel in Seoul, Korea, offers an overall view of the bride's wedding attire, which included a dainty tiara, lace-edged veil, and a gown reportedly by American designer Kenneth Pool.
Far from the ever-present lens of the paparazzi, one of Hollywood's most private pairs were pronounced husband and wife on September 27, 2008. Holding true to their dream of an intimate "I do," Golden Globe-nominated actress Scarlett Johansson received a wedding band from actor Ryan Reynolds to accompany her 3-carat diamond engagement ring during an evening ceremony held at a wilderness resort outside of Vancouver, British Columbia, US magazine revealed.
On March 8, 2008, approximately one year after their love story began, the silver screen beauty stood by her future husband's side as she watched her mother (Melanie Sloan) walk down the aisle at Paris Las Vegas hotel and casino's Eiffel Tower, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported. Sharing a close family bond, the star's mother and brother (Adrian Johansson) were among those who reportedly witnessed Scarlett's special day.
Football great John Elway, whose number 7 jersey was retired by the Denver Broncos on September 13, 1999, found himself in seventh heaven nine years later when former Oakland Raiders cheerleader Paige Green accepted his proposal. According to the RockyMountain News, the Hall of Fame hero asked for his love's hand in marriage during a romantic getaway to Italy in mid-September 2008.
Although first setting eyes on each other three years ago at the Marcus Allen charity golf tournament in Los Angeles, fate waited seven more months before matching the pair together on the set of an infomercial. Currently enjoying their betrothed status, the happy couple have not made plans for their future walk down the aisle public.
In the 2007 self-help book Your Girlfriends Only Know So Much: A Brother's Take on Dating and Mating for Sistas, comedian Finesse Mitchell offers ladies insight into gauging a guy's true intentions. On the book's opening page, the former Saturday Night Live star dedicated his tome to the woman who taught him about true love-- Jessica Santos, who pledged her devotion to the funnyman in a ceremony held in Atlanta, Georgia on September 13, 2008.
Ten bridesmaids dressed in stylish black silhouettes each cradled a single white calla lily in their arms as they strolled past the assembled guests before the bride made her grand entrance. Clutching a bouquet of red roses, the scalloped hem of the bride's strapless white gown gently brushed the aisle as she made her way toward her groom, who had donned a classic black tuxedo from Douglas Wayne for the occasion, Essence magazine online reported.
During the ceremony, no doubt happy memories of their own May 2005 wedding came to the minds of actors Boris Kodjoe and Nicole Ari Parker-- two of the 230 witnesses on hand to watch the couple seal their three-year love story with a wedding band.
93508: "Survivor: China" Contestants Compete for Wedding Prize
Although their romance began to blossom on the other side of the world as they struggled for supremacy on Survivor: China, South Carolina natives Jaime Dugan and Erik Huffman have decided that, when it comes to their wedding day, there's no place like their home state. Once again stepping in front of the camera, the reality TV twosome, whose attempts at becoming the ultimate survivor were unsuccessful, are hoping that their luck has changed as the short video clip which chronicles their romance has been announced as a finalist in the Charleston Wedding Giveaway.
Currently living in Nashville, the prospective groom and his bride-to-be returned to Charleston under the pretense of a photo shoot, which Huffman set up as a prelude to a proposal which realitytvmagazine.com reports took place at the Battery, a historic area of the city graced with antebellum homes.
The couple have tough competition from three other entrants: Arkansas online lovebirds Deborah Singer and Craig Stuart, Illinois pair William Palmisano and Nicole Schiller, who tickle viewers' funny bones with their idea of nightmare nuptials as well as their dream "I do," and Houston's Lisa McDonald and Andrew Nerlinger from Los Angeles, who created a cinematic-inspired clip. The winning couple will enjoy a three-day wedding weekend on April 3 - 5, 2009, featuring a bridal luncheon at High Cotton Restaurant, a rehearsal dinner at Middleton Place, a ceremony at the Wild Dunes resort and a honeymoon night at the Mills House Hotel.
To view video clips of the four finalists and cast your vote, visit www.charlestonweddinggiveaway.com. Voting continues through October 17, 2008. Following is the clip submitted by Jaime Dugan and Erik Huffman:
93408: "Top Design" Judge Jonathan Adler Marries Simon Doonan
A 14-year romance led to a walk down the aisle on September 18, 2008 for Top Design head judge Jonathan Adler and the man who is tailor made for him, Barney's creative director Simon Doonan (the author of Eccentric Glamour: Creating an Insanely More Fabulous You, who TV viewers may recognize from his appearances on VH1's I Love the '70's and its subsequent sequels.)
According to SFGate.com, the designing duo enjoyed a bachelor party at Zuni Cafe before signing their marriage license at San Francisco's City Hall. Looking casually chic in a Prada sweater and jeans, Doonan and Adler-- who donned a blue Fred Perry sweater and Barneys co-op jeans for the occasion-- made their way to the Clift Hotel for a more formal "I do."
Following the ceremony, the newlyweds embarked on a honeymoon excursion to Big Sur.
93308: "The Bachelorette" Star Jen Schefft Engaged
After discovering that winning the final rose on the third season of The Bachelor would not lead to a happily ever after with Andrew Firestone and when a season as The Bachelorette did not solve her search for a soul mate, Jen Schefft compiled the lessons she learned in the self-help book Better Single Than Sorry: A No-Regrets Guide to Loving Yourself and Never Settling. Now the reality star has begun a new chapter in her life as a bride-to-be, People magazine reports.
Engaged to Joe Waterman, her love of the past eight months, the one-time TV personality is planing an "I do" that will take place in 2009. Although millions of television viewers followed her on her path to finding Mr. Right, only a small gathering of 50 - 60 guests will witness her walk down the aisle.
93208: Looking Back at Natalie Wood and Robert Wagner's 1957 Wedding
As actor Robert Wagner opens the chapters of his life story to the public in his just-released autobiography Pieces of My Heart: A Life, Lovetripper takes a look back at one of the happiest days in his life-- his wedding in 1957 to actress Natalie Wood:
Toasting the upcoming first anniversary of their love,on December 6, 1957 movie idol Robert Wagner filled Natalie Wood's glass not only with celebratory champagne, but also with a pearl-and-diamond ring, its inscription bearing the words which would lead to their walk down the aisle: "Marry Me."
A mere three weeks later, on December 28, 1957, the actress found herself clutching a bouquet in her glove-covered hands as she made her way to the altar of the Scottsdale United Methodist Church in Scottsdale, Arizona. Acting as maid of honor, her sister Lana (who would capture the ceremony in the pages of Natalie, her biography of her famous sibling) and the bride's Rebel Without a Cause co-star Nick Adams, also a member of the wedding party, looked on as the couple were pronounced husband and wife.
After cutting slices of a three-tier wedding cake at a reception held at the Valley Ho Resort, the newlyweds boarded a train for a honeymoon excursion to Florida.
Although their romance proved to be a roller coaster ride which ended in divorce in 1962, the legendary lovers found their way back to each others arms once again years later, leading to another wedding ceremony on July 16, 1972. The couple remained together until Natalie Wood's untimely passing in 1981.
93108: Prince Waldemar zu Schaumburg-Lippe's Wedding (photo)
On September 20, 2008, the clip-clop of horses' hooves announced the arrival of a carriage bearing a bride to Schoenbrunn Castle in Vienna, Austria. Clutching a bouquet of pink and ivory roses interspersed with baby's breath and greenery, Gertraud Antonia Wagner-Schoeppl descended from the buggy and strolled inside where her groom, Prince Waldemar zu Schaumburg-Lippe, waited to make her his wife.
Looking pretty in pink, Boris Becker's daughter Anna fulfilled her role as flower girl with three other young ladies, paving the path to the altar with rose petals before the bride made her grand entrance in a gown from Brautsalon Klagenfurt.
Following the 5 p.m. ceremony, family and friends wished the newlyweds well at a reception held at the hotel Schoenbrumm, Salzburg24 reported.
Photo of Boris Becker's Daughter at the Wedding of Prince Waldemar zu Schaumburg-Lippe
Model Angela Ermakova proudly looked on as young Anna Ermakova, her daughter with tennis legend Boris Becker, walked down the aisle as a flower girl in the wedding of Prince Waldemar zu Schaumburg-Lippe and Gertraud Antonia Wagner-Schoeppl, which took place on September 20, 2008. The following photo also shows the bride's son, Mario-Max.
93008: "Holby City" Star Tom Chambers Discusses Upcoming Wedding
Although he is currently dazzling TV audiences with his fancy footwork on the BBC reality show Strictly Come Dancing, it is the thought of his upcoming wedding to long-time love Clare Harding that has actor Tom Chambers dancing on cloud nine.
It has been a long road to their walk down the aisle, with the feelings the couple felt for each other 10 years ago, when the Holby City star was 20 and the object of his affection only 15, having to be denied. Over the course of time both would go on to enjoy other romances, but found that none matched the emotion that they shared together, the Sunday Mirror revealed.
Fate having found a way to reunite the couple two years ago, the pair now plan to pledge their devotion in October at the site where, on their first date a decade ago, a then 20 year-old Chambers foretold his future bride that they would wed-- the Repton school in Debyshire, of which both the bride-to-be and the prospective groom are alumni.
92908: Jennie Garth and Peter Facinelli at Pre-Emmy Event (video)
Having recently returned to the small screen for a new generation's take on Beverly Hills90210, it seemed only appropriate that actress Jennie Garth would attend Entertainment Weekly's 6th Annual Pre-Emmy Event on September 20, 2008 at a building in which countless pieces of mail addressed to the zip code which made the star a household name would pass through over the years-- the former Beverly Hills Post Office. A landmark of 1930's architecture, the edifice-- which is soon to be known as the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts-- still retains a memento of its former life, with a mail-themed mural adorning one of the walls.
At the TV star's side was her handsome husband, actor Peter Facinelli, who will soon set hearts aflutter on the silver screen as a member of the immortal Cullen clan in the much-anticipated cinematic adaptation of Stephenie Meyer's romantic vampire novel, Twilight, which arrives in theaters on November 21, 2008. Married on January 20, 2001, the Tinseltown twosome are enjoying their own eternal love story.
Hollywood.tv captured images of the couple as they greeted fans outside of the pre-Emmy event:
Like a mythical vision of Athena Polias brought to life, silver screen goddess Jennifer Lopez posed for a photo shoot on September 21, 2008 at the Erechtheion, the temple where followers once gathered to worship the Greek patron of heroism. Standing among the remains of the Acropolis, Latin superstar Marc Anthony was able to admire the view of both his beautiful wife and the ancient site which still lords over the city of Athens.
The iconic couple have recently been enjoying a European excursion. According to People magazine, the pair have promenaded though the streets of Saint-Tropez on a shopping spree which included a stop at the Bonpoint boutique, and have explored the sights of Portofino when not on board a yacht owned by fashion designers Dolce & Gabbana.
Claus Theo Gaertner, famous to German TV viewers for his role as detective Josef Matula on the long-running series Ein Fall fuer Zwei (A Case for Two), seems to have solved the mystery that is true love. Friends and family gathered at the Museum Lindengut in Winterthur, Switzerland on September 20, 2008 to witness the actor exchange vows with Sarah Wuergler, Focus online reported.
The couple, who have found their 35-year age difference to be no hindrance to their six-year romance, arrived at their wedding venue in a vintage vehicle-- a VW bus. Continuing the retro theme, the bride donned a veiled hat-- an accessory prized by brides of yesteryear-- which accented her champagne-colored silk skirt, buff-toned top and ivory bolero jacket.
After receiving a Tiffany wedding band, rose petals and rice rained down upon the bride and her newly-dubbed husband, blessing their union as they made their way first to the Roessli Illnau, then the Park Hotel Winterthur for post-wedding celebrations.
Time may have run out for computer systems analyst Edgar Stiles in season five of the acclaimed TV drama 24, but actor Louis Lombardi, who brought the character to life, has a lifetime of love ahead with actress Miranda Allgood. According to the New York Post, the Bronx-born star returned to his hometown on September 14, 2008, saying "I do" to his bride in a ceremony held on Throgs Neck, an area on the southeast corner of The Bronx.
The happy couple, who are parents of a two-year-old daughter named Ava, are currently celebrating not only a new chapter in their lives together, but also the next step in their professional lives as the director and associate producer of the independent film Doughboys.
Although it was Shakespeare who said "It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves" the lives of EastEnders actor Scott Maslen and Estelle Rubio seem intertwined with the celestial shapes in the sky. The heavens aligned for a solar eclipse on August 11, 1999, the day the couple's paths crossed, and on September 6, 2008 symbols of the sun and moon-- engraved on wedding bands carried down the aisle by their young son-- honored a love that has made their lives heaven on earth.
According to Hello! magazine, 150 friends and family members (including Sex and the City's Chris Noth and the groom's cast mates Barbara Windsor, Perry Fenwick, Steve McFadden, Jo Joyner and more) made their way to Brocket Hall, an 18th century manor in Hertfordshire, England to watch a trio of cherubic flower girls and the groom's co-star Samantha Janus, in the role of matron of honor, walk down the aisle before the bride made her entrance.
In a pair of silver high heel shoes, the bride strolled past her guests to the strains of "Metti Una Sera a Cena" toward the groom, and the warm glow of candlelight sparkled on the facets of her gown's bejeweled bodice as she took her place by the actor's side and pledged her devotion in a civil ceremony.
As an evening of revelry drew to an end, the newlyweds found themselves once again gazing heavenward, as fireworks danced among the stars.
In the following photo, EastEnders star Scott Maslen poses in front of a display of Hello! magazine covers, each featuring a celebrity wedding. The actor would find his own wedding day on a September 2008 cover of the magazine.
For years Sandy Leah Lima commanded stages around the world as half of the chart-topping brother/sister duo Sandy & Junior, but on the evening of September 12, 2008 the singer took center stage in her parent's home in Campinas, Brazil alongside musician Lucas Lima as she said "I do" to her long-time love. Clutching a bouquet of white orchids, the bride walked down the aisle in a pair of Gucci sandals as music composed by the groom led the way.
According to Globo.com, 250 friends and family members admired the vintage-style veil and headband which added an air of Old Hollywood glamor to the bride's Emannuelle Junqueira gown. The crystals applied to the yards of delicate French lace on the decidedly romantic silhouette sparkled in the light during the ceremony as the bride received a wedding band created by jeweler Jorge Amerante.
92308: "Curb Your Enthusiasm" Star Susie Essman Marries
Their love story began during the Thanksgiving holiday in 2003, and Curb Your Enthusiasm star Susie Essman has been thankful ever since for the love of commercial real estate broker Jim Harder, who became her husband on September 13, 2008. By the authority vested in Oz writer and producer Tom Fontana as minister of the American Fellowship Church, the pair were united in marriage at the Friars Club in Manhattan.
Regaling The New York Times with the tale of their romance, the bride confided that the fact that Mr. Harder was the owner of a tiny Shih Tzu helped his transformation from boyfriend to bridegroom. The couple are sharing the happiness of their new life together with the groom's son, three daughters and their canine companions.
On September 1, 2007 the pews inside the Ojai Presbyterian Church were filled with the family and friends of Private Practice star Kate Walsh as she walked down the aisle in a Monique Lhuillier gown and received a wedding band from FOX studio executive Alex Young to accompany her Jubilee-cut Neil Lane engagement ring. The sparkling symbol of their love had graced the small screen beauty's finger since a romantic getaway to San Francisco in May 2007.
Photo of "Private Practice" Star KaDee Strickland's Engagement Ring
Former Roswell star Jason Behr turned to Tacori when choosing the platinum-and-diamond eternity ring which he slipped on the left hand of actress KaDee Strickland, (now a cast member on the ABC series PrivatePractice,) during a picnic at a Napa Valley, California vineyard. The proposal led to a November 10, 2006 ceremony at the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa, the same venue where the bride's future Private Practice cast mate Kate Walsh would celebrate her wedding reception in September 2007.
Photo of Actress Roselyn Sanchez's Engagement Ring
Without A Trace star Roselyn Sanchez and her love, actor Eric Winter, celebrated the end of 2007 not only with a romantic getaway to the island of Vieques, but also with a betrothal. The actress, who wears a 4.3-carat brilliant cut diamond engagement ring from jeweler Michael Barin, will receive a wedding band created by the same designer in November 2008.
Befitting an American Beauty, Mena Suvari's sparkler is a stunner. The actress began wearing the dazzling diamond engagement ring after music producer Simone Sestito's proposal during a July 2008 jaunt to Jamaica.
92208: Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan in Maui (video)
Although a wedding dress is in her future, in mid-September 2008 bride-to-be Jenna Dewan was a bikini-clad cutie as she and her prospective groom, actor Channing Tatum, bronzed their bodies in the Maui sunshine. The two Step Up stars have been stepping out on the sands at their hotel since early September, when the actor, who will share screen time with Johnny Depp in the upcoming crime drama Public Enemies, asked for his love's hand in marriage and slipped a 4-carat diamond engagement ring from Neil Lane on her finger.
Soon after unpacking his swim trucks frequent flier Channing will load up his luggage with clothing fit for the cooler climate of Charleston, South Carolina, as the silver screen star starts filming the romantic drama Dear John in mid-October. Based on the best seller by Nicholas Sparks, author of The Notebook and Nights in Rodanthe, the actor is set to play the romantic lead opposite Mamma Mia!'s Amanda Seyfried.
In the midst autumn in Charleston, Channing Tatum will have his memories of Maui, such as a moment captured on film by Pacific Coast News, to keep him warm:
92108: Actress Alexis Bledel Ventures to Las Vegas
Officially turning 27 on September 16th, Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants star Alexis Bledel got a jump start on her birthday celebration last week with a jaunt to the Entertainment Capital of the World. The bright lights of the Neon City paled in comparison with the smile on the TV and silver screen beauty's face as she was presented with a birthday cake at Prive nightclub inside Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino on September 12, 2008.
Having once posed as Parmigianino's" Portrait of a Young Woman (Antea)" in an episode of her former CW show Gilmore Girls, the actress no doubt appreciated the contemporary masterpieces featured in the theatre lobby of the Bellagio upon her arrival for a performance of "O," another stop on the star's itinerary, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported. The sculptures of aerialists, dancers and circus entertainers-- the work of artist Richard MacDonald-- captures in bronze the fluid beauty of the Cirque du Soleil troupe as they transformed their bodies into works of acrobatic artistry on stage.
After a 21-year romance, actor George Takei and Brad Altman are finally able to live long and prosper as each other's loving husbands. Among the first same-sex couples to receive a marriage license on June 17, 2008, the pair gathered 200 friends and family members together at the Japanese American National Museum on the evening on September 14, 2008 for a ceremony that celebrated not only the union of two souls, but also the harmonious convergence of various cultures.
Standing in a circle of sunshine yellow flower petals in the museum's Democracy Forum, best man Walter Koenig and matron-of-honor Nichelle Nichols (Chekov and Uhura from the iconic sci-fi series) looked on as their former Star Trek cast mate and the man he loves participated in a Japanese tea ceremony, then presented each other with Native American wedding bands of silver and turquoise as they pledged their continued devotion with self-penned vows. Joined together in matrimony by a Buddhist priest, the blast of Scottish bagpipes rang out the happy news as the newlyweds walked hand in hand to their wedding reception.
While David Otunga missed out on a chance of romance with New York (Tiffany Pollard) as the contestant dubbed "Punk" on VH1's I Love New York 2, the reality TV personality has found his "Dreamgirl" in Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson. The couple, who have been an item for less than one year, became betrothed on the night of September 12, 2008 as the former American Idol finalist celebrated her 27th birthday in Los Angeles, People magazine online reported. Among the presents she received for her special day was a Neil Lane diamond engagement ring.
No announcement has been made regarding when the bride-to-be, who belted out "All Dressed in Love" for the Sex and the City soundtrack, will don her dream "I do" dress. Embarking on a new professional as well as personal chapter in her life, Ms. Hudson is currently preparing for the release of her debut CD, to be released September 30, 2008.
Although they were exercising at a park at the time, exertion was not the reason for Luz Elena González's racing heart when Bernardo Martínez presented actress with an engagement ring recently. The couple's four-year romance, which brought a son into their lives on May 8, 2007, will lead to two ceremonies, People En Español reports.
Although an official date has not been announced, the bride-to-be (who is currently starring on the small screen in the telenovela Querida Enemiga) is making arrangements for a civil ceremony in her home town of Guadalajara, Mexico, while a religious blessing of their union will be celebrated in Mexico City.
While Deelishis (real name London Charles) may have enjoyed a taste of romance with rapper Flavor Flav as the winner of VH1's Flavor of Love 2, the reality star has found the real deal with her love of the past year, Orlando Gordon. Quoting from the October issue of Sister2Sister magazine, Ballerstatus.com stated that the TV personality accepted her prospective groom's proposal on Mother's Day.
A betrothal that began in Detroit was also celebrated with family and friends in the Motor City in July 2008 with crab cakes, lobster shrimp and crab legs served at a soiree at a local nightclub. Before long the bride-to-be, who has parlayed her stint on reality TV into a career as a model, singer and a fashion designer with the launch of her D Cut brand of jeans, will send wedding invitations embossed with a July 2009 wedding date to guests.
During his career as one of Italy's top entertainers, Jovanotti (born Lorenzo Cherubini Jovanotti) has performed a number of love songs. However, no sound has ever been as sweet to his ears as the peal of wedding bells on the day he was joined in marriage with his love of the past 15 years, Francesca Valiani. A crowd of well wishers encircled the perimeter around the church of Santa Maria Nuova in Cortona on September 6, 2008 for a glimpse of the groom in his top hat, white tie and tails and his bride, who donned a white, long-sleeve wedding dress for the occasion.
Following the hour-long exchange of vows, early afternoon rays of light bathed the town which was so poignantly captured in the novel Under the Tuscan Sun as family and friends waited outside for the newlyweds. Exiting the church, the newly pronounced husband and wife clasped hands with their nine-year-old daughter as a shower of confetti christened their union.
Jean Sarkozy, the son of French President Nicolas Sarkozy, has not only followed in his father's footsteps by embarking on a career in politics, but also by walking down the aisle in 2008. No doubt reminiscing about their own wedding day, which took place on February 2nd of this year, newlyweds Nicolas Sarkozy and Carla Bruni-Sarkozy joined an assemblage of family and friends which included immigration minister Brice Hortefeux and French rapper Doc Gyneco at city hall in Neuilly-sur-Seine on September 10, 2008 to witness the groom present heiress Jessica Sebaoun-Darty with a wedding band to accompany the Tiffany diamond engagement ring she has worn since June 2008.
The happy couple were pronounced husband and wife during a half-hour ceremony which began in the early evening hours, Le Parisien reports. Before leaving city hall, the groom walked outside to receive the best wishes of the townspeople.
Wedding Photo of Jean Sarkozy's Bride, Jessica Sebaoun-Darty
Although her newly-pronounced husband Jean Sarkozy was spotted chatting with with well-wishers outside of Neuilly-sur-Seine's city hall on September 10, 2008, sightings of his bride were scarce. A persistent paparazzo, however, captured a fleeting glimpse of Jessica Sebaoun-Darty on her wedding day, wearing a traditional white gown.
As cameras panned the applauding crowd at the Republican National Convention recently, sharp-eyed spectators caught a glimpse of the ring that now rests on the left hand of Bristol Palin, the daughter of Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin. Presented to the 17-year-old by her high school sweetheart Levi Johnston, OK! magazine reports that the symbol of their love was sized at Alaskan Gold Rush Jewelers in their home town of Wasilla, Alaska in July 2008.
Offering understated elegance befitting a young couple embarking on a life together, the white gold, square-edge band is crowned with a simple 3/4-carat princess cut diamond. While the bride-to-be's ring was a traditional choice, the prospective groom sports a contemporary show of commitment-- a tattoo of his future wife's name on the third finger of his left hand. A popular trend, basketball star Tony Parker, Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon are just a few of the famous faces who have had their ring fingers inked with permanent professions of devotion.
As the lovebirds look forward to their future together as husband and wife, they also are awaiting the arrival of a bundle of joy, which is due by the end of 2008.
Natasha Bedingfield's "Pocketful of Sunshine" will certainly make the diamonds that adorn her new engagement ring sparkle. The British Billboard chart-topper announced on September 7, 2008 that Matt Robinson, her love of almost two years, asked for her hand in marriage during their stay in New York City.
91308: Celebrity Wedding Songs: Processional Music
Accompanying the bride's arrival, processional music sets the tone for a wedding ceremony. Following is a sample of the songs the stars chose for their walk to remember:
Christina Aguilera: "Morning Hymn" from The Sound of Music
Toni Braxton: Handel's "Arrival of the Queen of Sheba", followed by "Bridal Chorus" from Wagner.
Marie Cavallier (the bride of Prince Joachim of Denmark): "Sarabande TresTendrement" by Francois Couperin Former Australian Idol contestant Ricki-Lee Coulter: "Happy Ever After In Your Eyes" by Ben Harper
Marcia Cross: "Only Love Remains" by Paul McCartney Marisol Maldonado (wife of Matchbox Twenty frontman Rob Thomas): "The Nearness of You" as sung by Keith Richards Jennie Garth: Pachelbel's "Canon in D Major" Nancy Grace: "Moon River" Lhotse Merriam (wife of Tony Hawk): "Who Would've Thought" by Rancid, which was performed by the group. Katherine Heigl: "December 23rd" (a song penned by the groom, singer Josh Kelley) Jewel: "I've been Loving You Too long" by Otis Redding Desiree Gruber (wife of Desperate Housewives star Kyle MacLachlan): -- "The Prince of Denamrk March" by Jeremiah Clarke Deborah Lin (wife of The Sopranos star James Gandolfini): "Hawaiian Wedding Song" Kathy Najimy: "Fairy Tale of New York" by The Pogues Nancy O'Dell (Access Hollywood): "Canon in D Major" by Pachelbel Lady Diana Spencer (Princess Diana): "Trumpet Voluntary" by Jeremiah Clarke
Sophie Rhys-Jones (The Countess of Wessex): "Marche Heroique" by Sir Herbert Brewer Leah Remini: "Overjoyed" by Stevie Wonder
Rebecca Romijn: "Let The Sunshine In" Kate Walsh: "Bless The Broken Road" Kate Winslet (in wedding to director Jim Threapleton): "Prière a Notre Dame" by Leon Boellmanns' Suite Gothique Kimberley Williams-Paisley (actress/wife of country singer Brad Paisley): "Walk Through This World with Me," as performed by a gospel choir. Malinda Williams (Soul Food): Barbra Streisand's "Evergreen" Kristi Yamaguchi: " Hawaiian Wedding Song," performed by Nohelani Cipriano
91208: Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem Enjoy Cayo Espanto Excursion
Over the years Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart, Tiger Woods and his wife Elin, and Leonardo DiCaprio and his former flame Giselle Bundchen have been a few of the luminaries to leave their footprints on the powder white sands of Cayo Espanto, a private island in Belize. Joining that illustrious list, lovebirds Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem recently booked a seven-day stay at the palm shaded paradise.
Offering patrons their pick of one of six villas, the Tinseltown twosome chose to unpack their luggage at Casa Estrella, a two-story, two-bedroom retreat situated on the edge of the Caribbean, its waves lapping on the beach, beckoning to the pair to explore its depths. Known as the second largest barrier reef in the world, reports indicate that the environmentally-conscious couple dived at Blue Hole, Turneffe Reef and Hol Chan, where schools of Horse-Eyed Jacks, Neon Gobys and Trumpet fish welcomed their arrival.
Back on land, the Vicky Cristina Barcelona stars also enjoyed a private picnic at a deserted dream locale before the helicopter which had transported the pair to their various ventures returned them to their villa.
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British songstress Natasha Bedingfield, who climbed to the top of the Billboard charts with "Unwritten," embarked on the next chapter in the book of her life on September 7, 2008 when she accepted the proposal of Matt Robinson.
An item for the past two years, the performer and her businessman beau became engaged during their stay in New York, which included appearances at the Calvin Klein 40th anniversary party, the Fashion Rock's benefit and a performance at Hiro's, where the bride-to-be confided her happy news to her audience US magazine online reports.
Currently enjoying their newly betrothed status, the couple have yet to decide on a date for their walk down the aisle.
Channing Tatum and Jenna Dewan, who danced their way to box office success in the 2006 movie Step Up, are one step closer to becoming husband and wife. According to E! online, the bride-to-be was presented with a Neil Lane engagement ring on September 5, 2008 during a getaway to Maui with a few of the couple's closest friends.
Currently enjoying their first days of betrothed bliss, the lovebirds have not announced a date for their impending I do's.
As a Grammy-nominated recording artist, KT Tunstall's talent has taken her to "The Other Side of the World" for her performances. For her wedding day, however, the singer/songwriter felt as though there was no place like her native Scotland to begin married life with drummer Luke Bullen. On September 6, 2008, 150 friends and family members gathered at Flodigarry Country House Hotel on the Isle of Skye where they first witnessed four bridesmaids-- each in green garments that matched the verdant Scottish Highland surroundings-- walk down the aisle before the bride, dressed in a strapless silk creation embellished with crystals, made her grand entrance.
The couple's romance, which had led to a Christmas Day 2007 proposal following a five year courtship, culminated in a ceremony held beneath a marquee which offered the bride and groom a view of the Atlantic Ocean as they exchanged vows, the Sunday Mail reported. The ceremony concluded, the grounds echoed with the tune "Mhairi's Wedding" as the lovebirds took their first steps together as husband and wife.
Former England striker Gary Lineker, today a sports caster who brings his first-hand knowledge of the game to BBC's Match of the Day, has found his perfect match in Danielle Bux. A blind date back in October 2007 opened the footballer's eyes to the prospect of love with the model, who would accept a proposal of marriage from the athlete in August 2008.
Currently a model for La Senza lingerie, the bride-to-be has ample time to pick out her wedding trousseau. According to the Sunday Mirror, the couple are contemplating a walk down the aisle in 2010.
90708: Former "Real World" Cast Member Beth Stolarczyk's August Wedding
Beth Stolarczyk, who made her mark in TV history as a cast member of the MTV reality series The Real World, fulfilled her fantasy of the perfect wedding on August 9, 2008. As reported by US magazine, the television personality-- who appeared in the second, Los Angeles-based season of the iconic show, as well as a number of other MTV reality programs-- slipped into a strapless Carolina Herrera creation for her barefoot walk down the sands of a Santa Monica beach toward her fiance since Valentines Day 2008, Matt Ciriello. Among the 175 guests to receive invitations to the ceremony were the bride's reality star buddies Syrus Yarbrough of The Real World: Boston and Valerie Penso of Temptation Island fame.
The happy couple are currently awaiting a new arrival into the world-- a baby due in December 2008.
Reality star Jessica Kiper, who battles both the elements and fellow castaways on the 17th edition of the CBS reality series Survivor Gabon: Earth's Last Eden, has found her own personal paradise with movie director John Lands, who became her husband on August 23, 2008. Confiding to her fans on her MySpace page, the pin-up model/actress (TV buffs may remember her stints on Gilmore Girls and For Your Love) confessed that the couple's 11-day courtship led to Las Vegas vows and a honeymoon stay in a Treasure Island Resort suite.
A retro romantic, the bride was a vintage-style vision on her wedding day, walking down the aisle in a pair of black stilettos on the arm of an Elvis impersonator who serenaded the lovebirds with "Fools Rush In." A photo taken later outside of the Christian Audigier nightclub shows the newly-pronounced Mrs. in a short, strapless black dress accented with a white sash at the waist, while an elbow-length veil provided a nostalgic nod to tradition.
The newlyweds are planning to celebrate their union with family and friends in Louisiana on September 6th, and drink toasts to their happiness at a Survivor premiere party in Los Angeles on September 25th.
Find out more about the blonde bombshell bride in the following CBS clip:
90508: Jennifer Aniston Filming at New York Palace Hotel
A site befitting a comedic queen's return to the small screen, The New York Palace Hotel welcomed Jennifer Aniston and actor Alec Baldwin as scenes were shot for an upcoming episode of 30 Rock on the evening of September 3, 2008. Illuminated by both the glare of klieg lights and the soft glow of Florentine lanterns, the Emmy Award-winning actress stepped in front of the camera with the star of the NBC series in a courtyard hugged by the Villard Homes, Manhattan architectural masterpieces on Madison Avenue which were constructed in 1882. In a harmonious marriage of classicism and contemporary styles, the elegant edifices join with a modern 55-story tower to form the current 5-star sanctuary.
Although fans will have to wait until later this fall to see their favorite star's stint as a stalker on 30 Rock, Jennifer Aniston will appear on TV screens on September 5th in support of Stand Up To Cancer. The silver screen will also be graced with the face of the former Friends cast member in the upcoming cinematic ventures Management, Traveling, He's Just Not That Into You and Marley and Me.
In the early 1800's Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States, walked the grounds which, over 180 years later, the leader of The Taylor Nation strolled as she made her way to a recent photo shoot at Spring Haven Mansion in Hendersonville, Tennessee. Standing atop a vine-covered swing, platinum-selling country music star Taylor Swift had a clear view of the verdant landscape as sunlight streamed through the trees, illuminating the two-story, pre-Civil War plantation house which was a silent witness as the singing sensation posed for the pages of an upcoming issue of Country Weekly magazine. Dressed for the camera in a full-length, ivory gown, the teen crossover queen's look was reminiscent of the many brides who have have walked down the aisle at the coveted three-acre property over the years on their wedding day.
Fans of the country cutie have twice the reason to rejoice on September 8, 2008. Not only is it the date in which Country Weekly hits the news stands, the date also marks the singer's appearance on CMA Music Festival: Country's Night To Rock, which will be broadcast on ABC. Co-hosting a look at the music genre's annual opportunity for chart-toppers to converse with the folks who fill the concert halls, Swift taped her arrival in the country music capital for the event to share with her fans. Take a drive down Broadway in downtown Nashville with Taylor in the following clip:
Are you searching for the perfect melody to play at your reception during your first dance? Step out on the dance floor for the first time like a star as one of the tunes from the following notable nuptials provides the opening song in the soundtrack of your life together:
Christina Aguilera and Jordan Bratman: "In a Sentimental Mood" Jenna Bush and Henry Hager: "Lovin' In My Baby's Eyes" by Taj Mahal
Carmen Electra and Dave Navarro: "By Your Side" by Sade Crown Prince Frederick of Denmark and Mary Donaldson (Crown Princess Mary of Denmark): "Wedding Waltz" Sara Evans and Jay Barker: "With You" by Chris Brown Michael Flatley (Lord of the Dance) and Niamh O'Brien: "Fly Me To The Moon"
Jennie Garth (Beverly Hills 90210) and Peter Facinelli (Twilight): "By Your Side" by Sade
Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr.: "Someone to Watch Over Me"
Alyson Hannigan (How I Met Your Mother) and Alexis Denisof (Angel): "Over The Rainbow" followed by "No Tengo Dinero" by Los Umbrollos
Katherine Heigl and Josh Kelley: "Heavenly Day" by Patti Griffin
Wynonna Judd and D.R. Roach: "Over The Rainbow"
John Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette: "Forever In My Life" by Prince Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban: "At Last" Christopher Knight and Adrianne Curry: "The Music of the Night" from The Phantom of the Opera
Patrick Labyorteaux and Tina Albanese: "What A Wonderful World"
Joseph Laurence (Dancing with the Stars, Blossom) and Michelle Vella: "At Last" Avril Lavigne and Deryk Whibley: "Iris" by The Goo Goo Dolls Kyle Maclachlan (Desperate Housewives, Twin Peaks) and Desiree Gruber: "The Way You Look Tonight" James Marsden (X-Men) and Lisa Linde: "Peaceful," a tune composed by the bride's father. Katharine McPhee and Nick Cokas: "The Way You Look Tonight" Country music star Joe Nichols and Heather Singleton: "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" Sheryl Lee Ralph and Senator Vincent Hughes: "At Last" by Etta James Pete Sampras and Bridgette Wilson: "I Know How the River Feels" by Diamond Rio Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz: "First Day of My Life" by Bright Eyes Niki Taylor (model) and Burney Lamar: "Better Together" by Jack Johnson Usher and Tameka Foster: "Before I Let Go" by Frankie Beverly and Maze James Van Der Beek and Heather McComb: "Your Song" by Elton John
Rob Thomas and Marisol Maldonado: "I'll Be" performed by Edwin McCain. Malinda Williams (Soul Food) and DJ D-Nice: "Just the Two of Us" by Grover Washington Jr. Kristi Yamaguchi and Bret Hedican: "I Could Not Ask For More" by Edwin McCain
90208: Actress Malinda Williams and D-Nice's Wedding
Having first met during their teenage years, the friendship formed between former Soul Food star Malinda Williams and DJ/ rapper D-Nice (born Derrick Jones) slowly blossomed into a love that, like the sentimental Barbra Streisand classic chosen to accompany the bride down the aisle on August 23, 2008, is destined to remain Evergreen, Essence magazine reported. As the family and friends who had gathered at The Mezzanine in Newark, New Jersey rose in her honor, the bride strolled in a pair of satin Christian Louboutin shoes down a dove grey aisle runner, the warm glow of candlelight illuminating the path to her fiance since August 2007, who looked dapper in a black Giorgio Armani tuxedo paired with a white bow tie as he waited to make her his wife.
Their bond unbroken after their series had run its course, the actress shared her special day with her former Soul Food co-stars Nicole Ari Parker and Vanessa Williams, who were among the women who donned strapless, mocha-hued creations from David's Bridal for their roles as bridesmaids. Clutching bouquets of white blossoms, the bridal party admired their friend's Maggie Sottero wedding dress as its multi-tiered skirt fluttered with each step. Enhancing the garment's sense of romance was a diaphanous, elbow-length veil and the arrangement of aubergine-tinted calla lilies the bride held in her hands.
Following the exchange of vows, the newlyweds received the best wishes of actors Boris Kodjoe, Dule Hill and actress Terri J. Vaughn at the reception, where Frungillo Catering served a wedding feast topped with slices of a four-tier cake.
Actress Rachel Nichols, who portrayed CIA agent Rachel Gibson during the final year of the ABC series Alias, accomplished her own secret mission when she escaped the glare of the paparazzi's cameras in order to enjoy a private wedding with Universal Studios producer Scott Stuber, who brought The Kingdom and You, Me and Dupree to the silver screen. According to the Kennebec Journal, the bride (who will soon grace the silver screen in the buzzed-about box office ventures Star Trek and G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra) said "I do" in a ceremony held on July 26, 2008 in Aspen, Colorado.
Following their undercover union the new Mrs., who currently stars in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2, and her recently pronounced husband packed their luggage for a South Pacific sojourn to the island of Bora Bora.
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, Lovetripper takes a look back at one of the happiest days in his life-- his wedding in 1957 to actress Natalie Wood:
