Janice Hanna's Blog, page 5

20 Wedding Planning Tips (From a Fictional Wedding Planner Who’s Seen It All)

Planning a wedding can feel like juggling flaming bouquets—beautiful, exciting, and just a little bit terrifying. As a romantic comedy author (and creator of Bella Rossi, Galveston’s most charmingly chaotic wedding planner), I’ve picked up a few tips over the years… both real and fictional.

Whether you’re planning your own wedding or just love the romance of it all, here are some wedding planning tips to keep your big day joyful, beautiful, and (mostly) stress-free.

20 Wedding Planning Tips (Bella-Approved!)

1. Start with a budget—and stick to it.
Even Aunt Rosa can’t argue with that.

2. Choose a theme or vibe that feels like you.
Rustic, coastal, garden party, Frank Sinatra chic—own it.

3. Don’t invite everyone you’ve ever met.
Smaller weddings = less chaos and more meaning.

4. Pick vendors you vibe with.
You’re not just hiring a photographer—you’re inviting them into your story.

5. Create a wedding email account.
Trust me. Your sanity (and inbox) will thank you.

6. Schedule vendor meetings early.
The good ones book fast—especially in Galveston during bluebonnet season!

7. Build in extra time.
Weddings never run exactly on time. Plan for wiggle room.

8. Design a “no one panics” kit.
Include safety pins, breath mints, tissues, bobby pins, and chocolate.

9. Don’t skip the marriage counseling.
Strong marriages > perfect centerpieces.

10. Choose music that tells your story.
Bella swears by Dean Martin, but you do you.

11. Don’t DIY everything.
Pick one project. Outsource the rest. Your sleep schedule will thank you.

12. Write personal vows (if that’s your thing).
They’re the part everyone remembers anyway.

13. Have a backup plan for weather.
Especially if you’re getting married by the coast. (Looking at you, Galveston breeze.)

14. Make a “photo must-have” list for your photographer.
You’ll be too busy dancing to remember.

15. Don’t forget to eat.
This is not the day to run on mimosas and nerves.

16. Appoint a day-of point person.
Not you. Not your mom. Someone who can handle Aunt Ruby’s seating chart meltdown.

17. Practice walking in your shoes.
Trust me. Aisle stumbles are not on the Pinterest board.

18. Print copies of your timeline.
Hand them to your bridal party, vendors, and that one cousin who’s always late.

19. Plan a few unplugged moments.
Take 5 minutes with just your spouse, no phones. Soak it in.

20. Remember: the goal is marriage, not perfection.
The “happily ever after” starts when the cake’s gone and the guests leave.

Bonus Tip: Laugh When It Falls Apart

Because sometimes it will fall apart… and those moments make the best stories (and books!).

Want More Wedding Chaos? You’ll Love Bella.

If you enjoyed these tips, you’ll love my Weddings by Bella series—a lighthearted, faith-filled rom-com collection set in Galveston, Texas, where no wedding ever goes exactly as planned (and that’s half the fun).

Explore the series here on Pinterest
Or start reading Book 1: Fools Rush In on Amazon

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Wedding Disaster Survival Tips (From Someone Who’s Seen It All)

Planning a wedding? 

You’ve got the Pinterest boards, the spreadsheets, the checklist with seventeen tabs… but let’s be real: things still go wrong. As a romantic comedy author who’s written her fair share of wedding chaos (I’m looking at you, Bella Rossi!), I’ve learned that surviving the unexpected is half the story—and sometimes, the best part.

Here are 15 wedding disaster survival tips to keep you laughing, calm, and maybe even inspired when things don’t go exactly to plan.

15 Wedding Disaster Survival Tips

1. Dress ripped before the wedding?
Safety pins, prayer, and a bridesmaid with sewing skills can save the day—preferably in that order.

2. Your DJ canceled last-minute?
Grab a Bluetooth speaker and ask Uncle Joey to emcee. He’s been waiting for this moment his entire life.

3. The wedding cake collapsed?
Stack cupcakes. Add flowers. Smile big. The photos will be “rustic chic.”

4. Rain ruined your outdoor ceremony?
Move under a tent or into the church foyer. Romance > raindrops.

5. Bridesmaid drama?
Stick a cookie in her hand and remind her it’s not her big day.

6. Power outage at the reception?
Candles, acoustic guitar, and instant ambiance. It’s giving vintage romance.

7. Lost the groom’s ring?
Borrow Nonno’s pinky ring and roll with it. (He won’t mind—much.)

8. Flower girl meltdown?
Let her toss petals while eating M&Ms. Bribery is not beneath us.

9. Catering disaster?
Call your Italian relatives. They’ll have 15 casseroles delivered by the hour.

10. Bad hair day?
Twist it up, pin in a flower, and smile. You’re the bride, not the blowout.

11. Tulle explosion?
Lean into it. The fluffier the dress, the bigger the entrance.

12. Wrong playlist?
“That’s Amore” on loop never hurt anyone.

13. Missing officiant?
Pastor’s wife’s cousin is ordained online—get creative!

14. Your heel broke walking down the aisle?
Kick off both shoes and strut barefoot. Island wedding chic.

15. Everyone’s crying… even the groomsmen?
Good. That’s how you know it’s a bella success.

What These Tips Really Mean

Behind the laughs is this truth: weddings are beautiful because they’re imperfect. The moments that go sideways? They’re the ones you’ll tell your grandkids. And in fiction—as in life—it’s often the mess that makes the magic.

Love Wedding Chaos? You’ll Love Bella.

If you enjoyed these tips, check out my Weddings by Bella series—a Christian rom-com collection set in Galveston, Texas, where wedding disasters are pretty much guaranteed (but love always wins in the end).

Explore the series here
Or start reading on Amazon: Fools Rush In

Before you go, why not pin a few photos?

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Picture Perfect Party Plan: “Bing vs. Bob Edition”

If you enjoyed my novel, Picture Perfect, (Book one in the Weddings by Design series) have I got a fun idea for you! This book features characters who love two real-life entertainers: Bing Crosby and Bob Hope.

If you’ve read the story, you know that the family celebrates Christmas in style each year with a Bing and Bob party. I had that in mind when I came up with the idea for this party. This would be a fun project for your book club or a handful of friends who loved the book.

So, what would a Picture Perfect Party look like? Let’s break it down:

THEME:

This one’s a given! The them would be a whimsical Irish vs. English showdown inspired by Picture Perfect‘s split-room party and the classic duo, Bing Crosby (Irish) and Bob Hope (English). Guests pick a side and dress accordingly!

INVITATION COPY:

You’re invited to the Picture Perfect Party!
Pick your team—Bing (Irish) or Bob (English)—and come dressed for the isle you love most! Whether you’re donning tweed and sipping tea or sporting green and munching on soda bread, come ready for music, movies, and mayhem.
Expect laughter, rivalry, and a whole lotta wedding shenanigans.
RSVP today and get your camera ready—this is going to be Picture Perfect!

COSTUME IDEAS:

Team Bing (Irish):

Green attire or Celtic dressShamrock accessoriesIrish step-dancing shoesSt. Paddy’s hats

Team Bob (English):

Tweed jackets and bowler hatsTea party dressesUnion Jack accessoriesFake monocles or mustachesPOTLUCK (Real or Virtual) IDEAS:

Encourage guests to “bring” themed dishes (or post pictures if online):

Team Bing (Irish):

Irish soda breadShepherd’s pieColcannonShamrock shakesBailey’s cupcakes (or mocktail version)Mint Oreo Trifle

Team Bob (English):

Cucumber sandwichesBangers and mashEnglish trifleVictoria sponge cakeEasy Buttermilk Scones with Clotted CreamStrawberry Lemon Cream SconesEarl Grey teaENTERTAINMENT ZONE:

Create a viewing area or link list with classic Bing & Bob “Road to…” films. Let guests vote on their favorite!

Road to MoroccoRoad to RioRoad to BaliHigh Society (with Bing & Frank!)White Christmas (even if it’s not the season!)

Bonus: Include music playlists with Bing’s crooning and some Bob Hope comedy clips.

PHOTO BOOTH (Real or Virtual):

Set up a photo backdrop with Irish and English props:

One side with rolling green hills and shamrocksThe other with Big Ben and London busesAdd fun printable props: teacups, Guinness pints, vintage cameras, veils

Have guests pose and vote for Picture Perfect Photographer of the Night.

GAMES & ACTIVITIES:Photographer Face-Off: Post two photos and vote “Who Shot it Best?”Bridezilla Bingo: Based on Hannah’s chaotic clients (use scenes from the book!)Wedding Word Scramble: Words related to wedding photography or classic filmsGuess the Bing/Bob Line: Match famous quotes to the right guyBOOK DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

(Perfect for wrapping up the night or starting conversation)

What do you think motivated Hannah to win Bella over so fiercely?How did the Irish/English rivalry mirror Hannah and Drew’s dynamic?In what ways did humor help Hannah cope with stress?What was your favorite scene involving the “Bridezilla” client?How did Bella’s presence in this book feel different than in previous stories?FAVORS:

Send guests home with (or email/download if virtual):

A printable “Say Cheese!” camera charm bookmarkMini printable from “Bella’s Top Wedding Tips”Vintage-style photo filters/presets or a link to Canva frames inspired by the story

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Host a Weddings by Bella Book-Themed Party

Italian Charm, Galveston Style, and Wedding Day Whimsy

Welcome to Club Wed!

If you’ve fallen head over heels for Bella Neeley and her wild Italian family from the Weddings by Bella series, why not bring their world to life with a themed book party? Whether you’re planning a book club gathering, a bridal shower, or a girls’ night in, this party idea blends the heart of Galveston Island, the warmth of East Texas, the comfort of Aunt Rosa’s cooking, and the sparkle of classic wedding-day magic.

Throw in a splash of Frank Sinatra, a pizzeria full of love, and a hilarious mix-up involving a guy named DJ (spoiler: he’s not that kind of DJ!), and you’ve got everything you need for a night to remember.

Set the Scene: Italian Wedding Meets Island Vibes

Transform your space into the perfect mash-up of Galveston beach charm and traditional Italian wedding flair:

Use crisp white tablecloths, lace runners, and red rose centerpieces in honor of Aunt Rosa.Add personal touches with vintage wedding photos (yours or Bella’s!), twinkle lights, and classic wedding décor like tulle bows and framed love quotes.A “Welcome to Club Wed” sign at the entrance sets the tone with a wink and a smile.Aunt Rosa’s Italian Reception Menu

No Weddings by Bella party would be complete without food worthy of Aunt Rosa herself:

Pasta Bar: Offer a trio of sauces—marinara, Alfredo, and pesto—with penne, spaghetti, and bowtie pasta.Mini Pizza Bites or Calzones: A nod to the family’s beloved pizzeria. (Check out this homemade sourdough pizza crust!) Caprese Skewers, Antipasto Platters, and  Garlic Knots  round out the savory options.Mocktail Station: Serve faux Bellinis, sparkling lemonade with basil, and Italian sodas in champagne flutes.Sweet Endings: Cannolis, Tiramisu, Italian Cream Cake, Italian Wedding Cookies, hand-painted wedding cookies, or even a DIY Wedding Cake would be perfect! The Wedding Soundtrack of Bella’s Dreams

Channel the spirit of Sinatra and Dean Martin with a crooner-filled playlist:

“That’s Amore” – Dean Martin“Fly Me to the Moon” – Frank Sinatra“Bella Notte” – from Lady and the Tramp“The Way You Look Tonight” – Frank Sinatra

Encourage guests to dance under the string lights or waltz through the kitchen like Aunt Rosa when she hears a good love song.

He’s Not That Kind of DJ

One of the most delightful misunderstandings in the series? Bella hiring Dwayne Neely Jr. (DJ) for a wedding, thinking he’s a disc jockey. He’s actually in construction!

Have some fun with this theme:

“He’s Not That Kind of DJ” Photo Booth: Set up props like headphones, vinyl records, a hard hat, and a tool belt.Wedding Song Trivia Game: Play short clips and have guests guess the title or artist.Fake Dedications: Let guests write silly or sweet “DJ dedications” and read them aloud, just like a radio love show.Wedding-Themed Activities

Keep the fun going with interactive, Bella-approved games:

DIY Veil or Boutonniere Station: Guests can make their own wedding flair for photos.Bella’s Wedding Bingo: Squares might include “cake disaster,” “bridezilla moment,” “unexpected kiss,” and “Aunt Rosa says something outrageous.”Mad Lib Vows: Create fill-in-the-blank wedding vows that are sure to have everyone in stitches.Love Story Timeline Game: Can your guests remember how Bella and DJ’s romance unfolded?Book Talk: Dive into the Series

After all the fun and food, gather for a cozy chat about the books. Use table tents or printable discussion cards with questions like:

Which of Bella’s weddings was your favorite?How would you have reacted if you thought your love interest was a DJ?Who’s your favorite secondary character (Aunt Rosa? Guido the dog? D.J.’s mama?) and why?What would your dream Galveston wedding look like?Parting Gifts

Send your guests home with a touch of Italian sweetness and southern charm:

Mini Cannoli Kits or  Italian Cookie Bags Bookmarks featuring quotes from Bella, DJ, or Aunt RosaRecipe Cards for Aunt Rosa’s signature sauceTiny Italian sodas with tags that say, “Grazie for coming!”Share the Love

Planning your own Weddings by Bella party? I’d love to see it! Share your photos on social media using the hashtags #ClubWedParty or #WeddingsByBellaNight and tag me so I can celebrate alongside you!

Get the Club Wed Party Checklist here!

Fools Rush In Discussion Questions: Click here

Swinging on a Star Discussion Questions: Click here

It Had to be You Discussion Questions: Click here

That’s Amore Discussion Questions: Click here

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The Ultimate Summer Beach Reads Roundup: Romance, Faith & Fun by the Shore

Looking for the perfect reads to tuck into your beach bag this summer? Whether you’re lounging seaside, curled up in a hammock, or simply dreaming of a salty breeze and sweet tea, these feel-good, faith-filled romances will take you straight to the Texas coast—and into the hearts of unforgettable characters.

Set in Galveston and other coastal towns, these series deliver sunshine, swoony heroes, laugh-out-loud moments, and just the right touch of chaos. From quirky wedding planners to candy shop owners, each story is brimming with charm, hope, and happily-ever-afters.

Weddings by Bella Series

Read the full post here →

Set in Galveston, Texas, this fan-favorite series follows Italian-Texan wedding planner Bella Rossi as she takes on wild themed weddings, outrageous relatives, and her own journey toward love.

Includes:

Fools Rush In Swinging on a Star It Had to Be You That’s Amore

Perfect for: Fans of romantic comedies, chaotic families, and Southern sass.

Purchase the series on Amazon!

Weddings by Design Series

Read the full post here →

Step behind the scenes of the bridal world in sunny Galveston! Each book follows a different wedding vendor—photographer, baker, dress designer, and florist—as they navigate love, faith, and business in the bustling wedding industry.

Includes:

Picture Perfect The Icing on the Cake The Dream Dress A Bouquet of Love

Perfect for: Lovers of light-hearted romance, creative careers, and coastal charm.

Purchase the series on Amazon!

Bella Novellas

Read the full post here →

Short on time? These bite-sized stories are perfect for one-sitting reads. Bella Neeley returns with more wedding-day hijinks, surprise ceremonies, and laugh-out-loud adventures—this time in novella format.

Includes:

Once Upon a Moonlight Night Tea for Two Pennies from Heaven That Lucky Old Sun The Tender Trap That’s Life

Perfect for: Quick beach reads, novella lovers, and longtime Bella fans.

Purchase the series on Amazon!

Boardwalk Brides Series

Read the full post here →

Stroll the boardwalk and fall in love with this sweet, nostalgic series featuring the Carini sisters. Set along the New Jersey coast, these stories combine faith, romance, and small-town charm with a splash of seaside fun.

Includes:

Salt Water Taffie Cotton Candy Clouds Sweet Harmony

Perfect for: Readers who enjoy candy shops, family stories, and heartwarming romance near the shore.

Purchase the series on Amazon!

Why You’ll Love These Summer ReadsSet in coastal towns like Galveston and Atlantic CityFull of faith-based, clean romance with heartfelt themesIdeal for fans of weddings, small businesses, and second chancesPacked with family fun, quirky characters, and uplifting endingsGreat for binge-reading or enjoying one sweet book at a timeReady to Start Reading?

Whether you’ve got a week at the beach or just a few quiet evenings at home, these sweet and satisfying stories will transport you to sandy boardwalks, breezy porches, and unforgettable love stories. Pick a series (or four!) and dive in today.

Don’t forget to grab your free Beach Reads Checklist printable here →

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Murder, Matrimony, and Mayhem? Say “I Do!”

Today’s featured series brings a delightful twist to the typical walk down the aisle. In my Bridal Mayhem Mystery Series, the mother of the bride isn’t just planning weddings—she’s solving mysteries that pop up right in the middle of them!

Each book in the series features a new wedding, a new mystery, and plenty of charming small-town characters you’ll grow to love. If you enjoy cozy whodunits with a strong female sleuth, heartwarming family moments, and a touch of romance, this series is your perfect match.

Bonus Sweetness

Weddings may bring mystery in the books—but in the kitchen, they bring cake! Try this fluffy, flavorful white cake mix recipe that’s ideal for weddings, showers, or just because:

The Most Delicious White Cake (from a Box!)

Stay tuned—more series are coming your way this month, each with a treat to match. Happy reading (and happy baking)!

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Boardwalk Brides Series: Summer Love at the Shore

Sink your toes into the sand and sip a salty breeze of romance with the Boardwalk Brides series by author Janice Thompson.

Set along a charming beachside boardwalk and infused with nostalgic fun, small-town faith, and sweet family drama, these books are ideal for your summer reading—whether you’re beach bound or daydreaming at home.

Book One: Salt Water Taffie

Read it on Amazon

Taffie Carini loves running her family’s candy shop—until her parents retire and leave her to take over. When a repairman named Ryan steps in to fix the broken taffy machine, he also breaks into her heart. But when a casino developer threatens her beloved shop, can love and creativity save the day?

A nostalgic, faith-filled romance with boardwalk fun, sweet business dreams, and a charming small-town hero.

Book Two: Cotton Candy Clouds

Read it on Amazon

Candy Carini’s life soars when she becomes a pilot for Eastway Airlines—but her dreams get grounded by union conflicts. Enter Darren Furst, another pilot whose steady kindness sparks a love that could weather any storm.

A light, uplifting romance full of small-town charm, aviation, and sweet possibilities.

Book Three: Sweet Harmony

Read it on Amazon

Once destined for Broadway, Tangie Carini finds herself directing church dramas in Harmony, New Jersey. When Gregg Burke, the by-the-book music director, clashes with her big-city flair, sparks fly—and so does the music.

An inspiring, opposites-attract romance with theatrical charm, small-town grace, and plenty of heart.

Why You’ll Love These Boardwalk ReadsSummer-perfect settings: nostalgic boardwalks, sweet shops, and sunny skiesFaith-infused romance: clean Christian love stories with uplifting messagesHeartwarming characters: sisters, pilots, pastors, and small-town charmFeel-good escapism: just the right mix of sweetness, laughter, and hopeReady to Take a Stroll on the Boardwalk?

If you love nostalgic, faith-filled romance with a seaside twist, these books were made for summer. They make the perfect companion for your beach chair—or any day you crave a warm escape by the water.

Start with Salt Water Taffie and let the boardwalk magic begin!

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Bite-Sized Beach Reads: The Bella Novellas Collection

Got an afternoon to spare and a sweet tea in hand? These quick, delightful novellas are the perfect fit for beach bags, porch swings, or cozy reading corners. Each story in the Bella Novellas collection is short enough to read in one sitting but packed with all the warmth, humor, and wedding-day whimsy fans of Weddings by Bella have come to love.

Set in sunny Galveston and small-town Splendora, these novellas feature creative wedding themes, quirky characters, and Bella Neeley doing what she does best—bringing chaos under control with flair and faith.

Once Upon a Moonlight Night

Read it on Amazon

Bella’s coordinating a celestial-themed Christmas wedding for a local meteorologist and her quirky astronomer fiancé. With outdoor festivities in December, it’s anyone’s guess if the weather—and the guests—will cooperate.

Stars, science, and holiday sparkle in this unforgettable night under the Texas sky.

Tea for Two

Read it on Amazon

It’s Valentine’s Day, and Bella is pulling out all the stops for a Victorian tea party-themed wedding. But when the groom—a senator running for president—starts missing planning meetings, things get dicey. Especially when Uncle Laz decides to throw his hat in the ring too!

Politics, pastries, and laugh-out-loud surprises in this romantic tea-time tale.

Pennies from Heaven

Read it on Amazon

Back in Splendora, Bella tackles a Parisian-themed wedding during an election season that’s splitting the town in half. Can she keep the peace, calm the bride, and manage a pack of unruly kids?

A sweet springtime story full of flair, French elegance, and small-town Texas charm.

That Lucky Old Sun

Read it on Amazon

A summer beach wedding brings Bella to the sand—and right into a cultural mash-up! A Greek groom and a Vietnamese bride want a simple sunset ceremony, but their families? Not so simple.

Beach vibes, big emotions, and Bella at her best in this multicultural celebration of love.

The Tender Trap

Read it on Amazon
A bookish bride is marrying a pop-psych radio host, and Bella’s tasked with planning their literature-themed autumn wedding. But with last-minute book tours and over-the-top ideas, Bella wonders if she’s in over her head.

A bibliophile’s dream wedding—with plenty of plot twists!

That’s Life

Read it on Amazon
A very pregnant Bella plans a reunion wedding for a formerly married couple getting a second chance. But not everyone is on board with the idea…or with Bella’s due date!

A heartwarming, hilarious finale to the Bella journey. Expect joy, redemption, and maybe a few contractions!

Why These Make the Perfect Beach ReadsShort enough to finish in one sittingSet in sunny Galveston and sweet SplendoraFilled with love, laughter, and family chaosGreat for longtime fans or first-time Bella readersPack the Bella Novellas in Your Beach Bag

Whether you’ve got 45 minutes or a whole afternoon, these stories are just the right length for a little getaway—no passport required. From political hijinks to beachside vows, there’s a novella here for every mood and moment.

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Sweet Romance by the Shore: The Weddings by Design Series

Sunshine, sea breeze, and sweet love stories—what more could you ask for in a summer read? Whether you’re lounging poolside or soaking in the view from your beach chair, these feel-good novels are the perfect escape. Set in charming Galveston, Texas, the Weddings by Design series brings you behind the scenes of the bridal world, where the pressure is high, the families are quirky, and love always finds a way.

Each book in this fun series focuses on a different wedding vendor—a photographer, a baker, a dress designer, and a florist—and ties beautifully into the beloved Weddings by Bella world. So grab a large glass of Texas sweet tea and settle in for a delightful ride through Galveston’s bustling bridal business.

Book One: Picture Perfect

Read it on Amazon

Hannah McDermott is a feisty wedding photographer determined to prove herself in Galveston’s competitive wedding scene. Her goal? To land the top spot on Bella Neeley’s recommended vendor list. Her biggest rival? The charming (and frustratingly handsome) Drew Kincaid.

Let the wedding wars begin—with plenty of laughs and unexpected romance along the way!

Book Two: The Icing on the Cake

Read it on Amazon

Scarlet Lindsey didn’t plan to become a cake decorator, but when her eccentric Aunt Wilhelmina calls, Scarlet steps in—and ends up in a televised cake competition. Between frosting flubs and romantic surprises, she learns that life is best served sweet.

Cake, comedy, and a whole lot of heart—this one’s a treat!

Book Three: The Dream Dress

Read it on Amazon

Gabi Delgado dreams of seeing her wedding dress designs come to life, not just altering gowns at a high-end boutique. But when she loses her job and meets Jordan Spencer, the editor of Texas Bride magazine, her future begins to take a surprising turn.

A story of dreams, dresses, and a love that fits just right.

Book Four: A Bouquet of Love

Read it on Amazon

Cassia Pappas just wants to focus on arranging flowers, but her loud, lovable Greek family has relocated to Galveston to open a restaurant—right across from the Rossi family’s pizza place. As tensions rise between the families, Cassia must balance family loyalty and her own path to love.

Florals, family feuds, and flirty delivery guys? Yes, please!

Why You’ll Love This Series

If you’re drawn to:

Coastal settings full of character and charmWomen navigating faith, family, and big dreamsRomantic comedies with heart and hilarityThe behind-the-scenes chaos of weddings…

…then Weddings by Design is your new favorite summer series.

Escape to Galveston This Summer

Each book in the Weddings by Design series brings something fresh and delightful to the wedding scene—and the beach! With sun, sweetness, and the occasional frosting fiasco, these clean and inspirational love stories are exactly what you need in your summer reading stack.

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Best Beach Reads: The Weddings by Bella Series

Nothing says summer like Galveston Island, a comfy beach chair, a big floppy hat, and a sweet tea in hand…especially if you’re diving into a feel-good romantic comedy. If you’re searching for the perfect beach reads to take along on your coastal getaway (or just want to feel like you’re at the beach), the Weddings by Bella series has you covered.

Set in sunny South Texas, these books are full of heart, humor, and wedding-day hijinks that will make you laugh out loud—and maybe even wipe away a happy tear. Meet Bella Rossi, a quirky Italian-Texan wedding planner whose life is anything but boring. From cowboy-themed weddings to castle dreams and 1940s throwbacks, Bella’s big Italian family brings charm, chaos, and a whole lot of love to the page.

Book One: Fools Rush In

Read it on Amazon

When her Italian-turned-Texan parents hand over the family wedding-planning business, Bella Rossi books a “Boot Scootin’” country wedding…only she doesn’t know the first thing about country music. Enter DJ Neeley, a real-life cowboy with a playlist full of George Strait and charm to spare.

A hilarious culture clash with a whole lot of heart—and Tex-Mex flair!

Book Two: Swinging on a Star

Read it on Amazon

Bella is planning a fairy tale wedding, Renaissance style—complete with a castle, costumes, and horse-drawn carriages. But the best man? Hollywood’s hottest heartthrob. And he’s staying in her house.

Lights, camera, chaos. This wedding might just be Bella’s biggest challenge yet.

Book Three: It Had to be You

Read it on Amazon

Love is finally in the air for two feuding relatives, and Bella is thrilled to plan their glamorous 1940s-style wedding. But when family drama—and a mysterious old friend—gets involved, Bella’s own happily-ever-after may get a bit complicated.

Old-world charm meets new family chaos in this sweet and funny love story.

Book Four: That’s Amore

Read it on Amazon

Now married with kids and a new Club Wed location opening in Splendora, Bella’s got her hands full. When DJ suggests they renew their vows, Bella agrees…until the town’s mayor tries to shut everything down.

A heartwarming story of family, faith, and finding joy in the chaos.

Why You’ll Love These Books

If you love:

Family-centric fictionLight-hearted faith-based romanceCrazy culture clashesLaugh-out-loud moments mixed with tender truthsSummer stories with sweet tea, sun, and second chances…

…then The Weddings by Bella series belongs in your beach bag.

Grab Your Sweet Tea and Start Reading!

Whether you’re heading to Galveston or just wish you were, these Texas-set stories are the perfect escape. So fluff your towel, open your favorite book app (or paperback!), and let Bella and her unforgettable family take you on a summer adventure you’ll never forget.

☀️ Start with Book One: Fools Rush In

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