Vintage Paper Straws

If you happen to be a fan of all things paper then you may already know about these adorable vintage paper straws, but for the rest of us this was just too cute of an idea not to share. Quite the pretty addition to a candy bar or mason jars of lemonade, these fun straws aren’t just for the kids.  Ideal for a bridal shower or even dessert time at your formal reception.  The only trouble is you have to do a little research and hunt them down online or for the real vintage deal keep eyes peeled at flea markets or on ebay. We found these over at Sweet Paul Blog.  Bonus tip for the eco chic: they’re biodegradable! 

 

Petit Ermitage Party, A Grand Masquerade

Sorry we've been a bit behind this week on the blog, but we're back!  We've been busy planning, or we should say Nicole from Cobalt Events planned while we partied at the Petit Ermitage Hotel where we co-hosted a fabulous masquerade ball for the event community here in LA.  This was a big labor of love, produced by some of the most talented event professionals (and Bridal Bar members).  Take a look at all who made it happen and what happened once the festivities began.  Thank you everyone for participating and celebrating with us!

The insanely cool decor was created by Tic Tock Couture Florals, Classic Party Rentals, Cobalt Events and Lighten Up, Inc.  Thank you Eddie, Marco, Leticia, Nicole, Nathan, and Mario!  You constantly amaze us!  The rooftop of the hotel completely transformed by dark:

We used some of the existing furniture that hotel has in place (perfect for a rooftop fete), then added in colored and patterned lighting and washes, a gobo in the pool, a ceremony arch by Tic Tock along with their to-die-for florals, and Classic's fab ceremony chairs, linens, etc.  Oh - and the yummy cocktails pictured below were masquerade themed potions by X-Rated Fusion Liqueur.  De-lish.

We had a custom candy bar by the gals at Custom Candy Buffet Bars and Plush Puffs, while guests also dined on munchies from Petit Ermitage, a popcorn machine, s'mores, and the mask cookies below by Weddingish. 

The lingerie attire wasn't worn by improper guests but a free flowing fashion show by Sara's Lingerie to spice up the evening.  The girls were gorgeously done by Fiore Beauty for makeup and Angus M Salon for hair.  We even got dolled up by them and had so much fun dressing up for the part!

A few of our favorite masks for the night.  So much fun to see everyone so dressed up!  (Think themed engagement party girls...you're guests will really get into it!)

Elise from We Adorn You Face Painting treated guests to custom made, hand painted makeup masks.  A huge hit.  Some gals waited two hours to get done up!  Also pictured below - our talented photographers Laura and Tammi from Beautiful Day Photography (in front of the screening of Interview with a Vampire that looped throughout the night).  And string music by the uber-hip Supernova.

For a surprise finale, the Aqualillies performed a special masquerade themed show in the rooftop pool.  Such a hit!  The ladies are so lovely!

And who could forget the life of the party - the photo booth!  Foto Cabina was rocking all night with some crazy partygoers inside...

By the end, guests left with custom chocolate masks by the celeb favorite, Madame Chocolat.

We just want to sincerely thank every single company who helped pull this party off.  It was so fun to see so many familiar faces in attendance and it would not have been possible without the support and incredible talents of the following people:

Hotel: Petit Ermitage

Media Host: Angeleno Magazine

Cobalt Events: Event Production

Tic Tock Couture Florals: Decor

Classic Party Rentals: Rentals & Decor

Lighten Up Inc: Lighting

Aqualillies: Performance

Photo Booth: Foto Cabina

Photography: Laura Grier for Beautiful Day Photography

Invitations & Calligraphy: Laura Hooper Calligraphy

Music: Supernova

Makeup: Fiore Beauty

Hair: Angus M Salon

Favors: Madame Chocolat

Erica Courtney Jewelry: My Jewelry Guru

Face Painting: We Adorn You Face Painting

Candy Bar:Weddingish & Plush Puffs & Custom Candy Buffet Bars

Water: Jana Natural European Artisan Water

Cocktails: X-Rated Fusion Liqueur

Lingerie Show: Sara's Lingerie

(And now back to our regularly scheduled programming).

News Tues: Kirstie Kelly Sample Sale

 Kirstie Kelly is having a sample sale at her LA flagship!  For the frugal shoppers with shall we say, amazing taste...the details:

When: November 28^th and 29^th

10 AM to 6PM

Where: Kirstie Kelly Salon

131 South Barrington Place, Ste 100

 What: Bridal Gowns starting at $400

 Bridesmaids, cocktail and flowergirl starting at $100

 Jewelry starting at $30

 50-80% off !!!

 How: Call for Appointment or just stop by

 Ph #310-471-5711 or email erin@kirstiekelly.com

R Mine Bridal Event

R Mine Bridal (famed for making Kendra Wilkinson's wedding dress) had a launch party this week to showcase their fabulous custom division.  Each dressing room was designed as a different set (so beautiful).

The matching cake was made by one of our very favorites, Fantasy Frostings.

The photo studio by LA Photo Party was a blast!  (The bottom left pic is the designer herself and next to that, the gals from Bridal Bar who made it out for the party).

Nicole from Cobalt Events (far right below) coordinated the entire fete and did a fantastic job!

Pantone Trend: Amparo Blue

Pantone puts out their trending color projections each season and we're going to share with you a few of our favorite bridal palettes to come.  First up, Amparo Blue.  This electric color has already begun to pop up on magazine covers, in bridal parties, and on the fashion runways but stay tuned for this color to really energize bridal aisles come spring.  It looks great with black, plum, white, yellow, and even some greens.  But it really pops so be prepared to be bold with this one!

Photos by: Top row left - Anthropologie, right - Red Loft Studios

Bottom row - Red Loft Studios

Reception for 30

In case you haven’t had the chance to attend a wedding where free flowing Haitian rum and balloon animals collide, now’s your chance to live vicariously through one. The lovely and beautiful couple Jeff and Sabine married at their local church with a reception held at Ortolan Restaurant in West Hollywood.  The celebration was intimate, and included just 30 of their closest friends and family. Guests were greeted by not only a delicious eight course tasting menu, but accompanied by festive touches, all white decorations, and the floral artistry of Lilla Bello Studio. If that wasn’t enough to make you swoon, how about the surprise honeymoon to Thailand? Dreamy!

Talk about a killer pair of shoes!!  Must have!

Photo credit: Jennifer Roper

What Would Have Been: Modern Bride

With the sad closing of Modern Bride magazine last month, many of the super fantastic editorial spreads we lost (never to see the light of day).  Well...until now!  We toyed with this one a bit and decided to share two posts of what would have been in the next issue (heck, we put enough time into it, the tips & ideas are great, so why not share it with all of you?!?!)  So here's the first piece that you would have seen (we just saved you the $4.95 newsstand price).  The editors (who we love and adore) went with a beer themed piece.  That's right - beer.  Grooms, pay attention!  How to incorporate beer into your wedding weekend?  Forget the groom's cake, we're talking rehearsal dinners at distilleries, beer and wine pairing menus with each course, beers around the world as welcome gifts, and this - beer place cards.  Destination wedding?  Welcome your guests with a corona adorned with an escort card.  The talented Laura Hooper Calligraphy created these fabulous sand dollar tags and the photo is courtesy of the lovely Lisa Franchot of Lisa Franchot Photography.  Need help getting your groom involved?  Name drop his favorite brew!

Photo by Lisa Franchot Photography.

Styling Your Wedding Day Look

Photos from Vera Wang.

We asked the always chic and stylish Jaclyn Vercillo, who makes it a point to be hot on the heels of everything from trendy to inventive, about what goes into styling brides and those close to them on their big day. From the talent behind Dressing Room Diva, get a tip or two about styling your look for your big day.

Wedding day styling is itself a hot new trend, what are some tips that you see brides falling dress-over-heels for right now?

JV: The main tip I give my clients is to be subtle. You don’t want one thing to over power your look and we help you pair everything together to create one fluid style.  I love incorporating color into your ensemble whether it is your shoes, purse, or hairpiece. Hairpieces are especially hot right now and can add so much to your look. My suggestion is to add a hair/head piece for the reception portion of the evening. It gives a little surprise to the guest and changes your look for the night.     

Photos from Ban.do.

How do you keep brides looking current and also infuse their personality into the final look?

JV: Brides have so much to choose from since the bridal industry has boomed. It is sometimes overwhelming as current trends are ever changing. For the perfectly current style the bride to be should pick a classic silhouette with a current trend. When you look back on your day you don’t want to cringe because you followed a trend that completely went out of style. By picking a classic silhouette you downplay the trend and make your look forever lasting.  Then incorporate the bride's personality through the use of accessories.  It's extremely important to take care in fulfilling her vision, and accessories are a great place to play with personality.

What's your go-to classic wedding day look?

JV: There really isn’t one specific go to look since all brides are different. My suggestion for a go to style would always be something with texture. Texture adds such an amazing presence on a dress. It gives the bride a three dimensional look while adding value to her dress due to the complexity. My go to look varies with every bride but we make it work every time!

Photos by Planet Blue (left), Anthropologie (center & right)

Any major do's or don'ts or a must have wedding day item (like hot purse or colored shoes?)

JV: Accessories are crucial for a bride on her special day. I believe in little pops of color to add a fun dynamic to your look. A fun way to spice up your look is to use your wedding day colors for your accessories. If your wedding color is plum you could wear plum pumps and a plum clutch.

Photos from Planet Blue.

How do you simplify the styling process to accommodate a client's schedule?

JV: I simplify the process for the bride by bringing everything to her. Planning a wedding is a lot of work and most vendors want to meet with you during the week because they are working the weekends. The Dressing Room Diva brings everything to you and schedules your appointments at the bride’s convenience. We also help focus on the whole bridal party to make the planning easier, one step at a time.

Kirstie Kelly for Disney Takes on Diamonds

Cinderella finally gets what she really wanted...not those glass slippers - diamonds!  Kirstie Kelly for Disney Fairy Tale Weddings now offers rings for the bride-to-be to carry out her five carat fairytale (okay so maybe not that big).  But if you want to bling out like royalty, check out these princess lines...

Honor thy guest (& give them time to honor you)

Yes, there's a reason people keep telling you to pick out whatever you like, its your wedding day and all eyes will be on you you you! But, let's not forget the little people in all of this. Some of the best weddings are the ones where not just the bride and groom take home an armful of memories, but also everyone who made it memorable. Including those near and dear to you in even simple and subtle ways has a sincere effect and will have your guests chatting about your event for ages. Here are a few ideas to help you keep it personal.

Let guests have the option to send in a song when they rsvp to your invitation. It's a guaranteed way to get everyone on the dance floor!

Pass out stamped and addressed postcards to guests and ask them to send in their well wishes for you at some point during the next year. You'll get love notes in the mail for a whole year! It also gives people time to pen out sincere thoughts for you both. Look for vintage ones at flea markets, touristy ones if your wedding takes place in a major city, or anything that embodies your personality as a couple.

Let guest take home centerpieces, flowers from your wedding will brighten up their day.

Deliver special welcome gifts to your out of town guests.  Include in these bags (by Laura Hooper Calligraphy) local information and an itinerary of the wedding events. You can slip in some snacks and fun items to make them feel at home.

Bridesmaid favors are a great place to work in a little individuality. Think rubber stamps of their names in a pretty font, or if you do go with similar gifts for everyone include a hand written card.  Voila! Instant kudos.

Animals at Weddings (and not walking down the aisle)

Red Loft Studios recently shot a wedding that we'd have to classify as truly one-of-a-kind.  Set at the famed and historic Park Plaza in downtown LA, the couple played up the 1920's era and decor.  We love it when a couple finds a theme that they love and speaks to them personally...and from this decor you really get a feel for the personality of the twosome!  Now the girls at Bridal Bar are real animal lovers so this one took a minute to adjust to; but what we love is that the couple went all out with what they wanted. 

Bride Eden and groom Peter added an unusual touch to their nuptials - animals! Squirrels, rabbits and beavers lent a paw in decorating tables and corners of the 1920’s hotel. The critters even joined in the photobooth fun! Family and friends sipped cocktails on a vintage couch in the courtyard amidst furry friends and were among raccoons and beavers in the seating area.  Their magical night will certainly not be forgotten, by bride and groom or guests. 

Thanks Red Loft for sharing and congrats to the bride and groom!

Inside Kleinfeld Bridal

While in NY for market and other ongoings, I stopped by Kleinfeld Bridal to visit my friends - fashion director of this Mecca, Randy Fenoli and Michael Landry who is heading up the new men's department for the store (big announcement coming on that soon).  I got the grand tour while dozens of brides shopped, TLC filmed "Say Yes to the Dress," and this small country of a store ran business as usual for a weekday.  On any given Saturday, the store sees 120 brides - in one day!!  With over 225 staff members, multiple stories of shopping (35,000 sq ft of space), and even a machine to move dresses (a la your dry cleaners automated ceiling tracks); this place is an incredible operation.  Of course the fashion is sn't so bad either :)! 

Photos below: Michael and Randy in the accesories department; Randy running through one section of gowns (the store holds anywhere between 1500-1700 gowns at a time depending on trunk show schedules).  That's right - almost 2000 bridal gowns in one place!  Though not quite sure if that's a wedding dream or wedding nightmare.  And each of the salon associates have their own dressing room (as do alternations staffers).  It's more of a visit to your best friend's closet when you arrive, everything is very personal and private.  They have simply thought of everything here (a facinating business model to get a glimpse into).

The window at Kleinfeld is one of the many works of art in the store. Visual Director, Jacques Vigneault installed this latest creation with surrealism in mind.  When Randy asked him to explain; "The dream-like quality of Songül Sarpbas' dresses is what inspired me to create this surrealist window. With my concept in place, I pulled elements from famous surrealist artists René Magritte, Paul Delvaux, and Di Chirico to create the theme I was envisioning."

On the bottom floor of the building is where all the real magic happens as Randy says.  The alterations department, seamstresses, beadwork is done, veils and accesories created, and it all comes together by the hands of over 100 talented women.  From tiny beading and sequins hand applied to enhance a bodice to the last minute alteration of a dress a bit too big on the bride, you really get a feel for the number of dresses this store sells by what's going on downstairs.  Carolina Herrera gowns just sitting waiting to be embellished while others are stuffed with tissue to keep their shape before the big day.

And probably one of the most amazing behind the scenes elements - this overhead track that moves the gowns from place to place within the store.

I had so much fun at Kleinfeld!  Thanks Michael and Randy for the grand tour!  It's a must do when in the big apple planning for your big day!

Best Honeymoon Spots

We asked the well-travelled experts over at Romance Travel Concierge for their favorite spots for some of our favorite things to do on a honeymoon.  Take a look at where they say you must stay!

Best room over water?

RTC: Stay at Anantara Maldives’ Deluxe Sunset Over-Water Pool Suite in Dhigu.  There are only two of these pool suites at the farthest point of the bungalows, giving you an unobstructed view of the ocean and the horizon.  The suite encompasses 182 sq. meters (1959 sq. feet), complete with a dining area, master bedroom (with king sized bed), and a bathroom with infinity-edge tub, shower and walk-in closet.  The bathroom also leads directly out to the sundeck, which is decked out with teak furniture, silk cushions, an infinity-edge plunge pool and outdoor shower.  And if the plunge pool isn’t adventurous enough, you can always jump off the deck and right into the ocean. 

Best in-room dining?  For those nights in...

RTC: The MGM Skylofts.  Where else do they serve foie gras in French onion soups delivered by your personal butler, 24 hours a day, seven days a week?  Not only that, the loft comes with an espresso machine with a coffee and tea selection that puts the Starbucks grind at the bottom of the list, not to pension their honey pearls – ivory powders so you can sweeten your tea and coffee without the gooey mess.

Best adventure above sea level?

RTC:  Devil’s Armchair, Victoria Falls.  It’s a natural infinity pool formed at the edge of the waterfall.  Swimmers can poke their head over the edge and look down at the plunging fall without falling.  Adventurous enough?

Best adventure below sea level?

RTC: Underwater Bubble, Bora Bora.  Instead of snorkeling, the underwater bubble allows you to view the ocean floor sea life in a maneuverable, clear enclosure.

Tips for the couple looking to pick the perfect destination for the themselves?

RTC: The perfect destination should suit your hobbies and personality.  If you are an adventurous couple, we suggest our packages to Victoria’s Fall, where you can swim in the Devil’s Armchair, a naturally formed swimming pool right at the edge of the waterfall.  However, if you are looking to unwind, we would suggest finding a resort with superb spa treatments in either Thailand or Bali.

Thanks Melissa and everyone at Romance Travel Concierge!

Pnina Tornai Preview

Last week in NYC we got a preview of what's to come in spring from the daring designer, Pnina Tornai.  Hosted at the famed Kleinfeld Bridal, the fashion show dazzled in diamonds, diamonds, and more diamonds.  She's known for sparkling and sheer, plunging necklines, sexy silhouettes, and this time - even a pink fox fur wrap!  Bridal Bar's own Tejani Jewelry was part of the parade of bling as Urvi and her crew dressed the models with even more over-the-top jewels. 

And a few of the pieces Tejani sent down the runway with the dresses...

Ice Cream Sundae Dreams

Lactose Intolerants look out, this ice cream bar is making us swoon.  Designed by an Aussie graphic artist and blogger over at Eat. Drink. Chic, she’s created templates to make your own buffet!  From the teeny meringues to the long stemmed maraschino cherries, guests will delight in the thrill of constructing their very own take on exactly what makes the perfect ice cream sundae. This might just be the way to go for that upcoming bridal show. Thanks to the awesome DIY tips and downloadable templates, this sounds easy as pie to construct. Can’t get over the sweet and romantic color scheme! Hungry.

Docuvitae Real Wedding

Stephanie and Mark married on Aug. 7th of this year at the private estate Rancho Del Cielo in Malibu.  Captured on film by the talented team at Docuvitae; they shared with us a few of the day's special details.

The perfect time of year, summer turning to fall, which made way for sun and breeze and the ideal backdrop for this intimate affair.  The estate is rustic with a hint of beach chic and the view over the cliff is pretty spectacular.  The decor was befitting of the style of the home.  Sunflowers in clay pots, crocheted table runners lined with stark white napkins and simple, tall glasses.  Bunches of daisies in vintage wire milk bottle baskets we propped on tables covered in tan burlap, tied with yarn.

Inside a modest California cottage, Stephanie got ready with a few close friends and family in a bedroom overlooking the ocean while a three-piece musical group of two fiddles and a string bass welcomed guests onto the back porch for lemonade under the shade.

The ceremony was carried out by Mark's father acting as the officiant, and a close family friend to gave blessings with essential oils in an alternative spiritual ritual.  For the reception, everyone went to the grassy meadow in front of the estate for freshly cut watermelon, tomatoes, goat cheese and basil and a lentil salad.  For desert - key lime pie, peach cobbler, chocolate cream pie and Southern Pound Cake with berries.  Every detail was authentic and comfortable, giving the event that welcoming feeling every bride and groom aim for.

The couple also created a DIY photobooth, equipped with a quilted backdrop and disposable cameras for
guests fit right in as Stephanie herself snapped some photographs with her own classic film camera.  As the night went on, guests gathered around a fire while others took to the dance floor under strands of lights that mimicked those at a country fair.

Congratulations to Stephanie and Mark!  

Photos by the lovely ladies at Docuvitae.

Martha Stewart 15th Anniversary Gala

When the mail comes, often invitations are in the stack.  But to get an invite from Martha Stewart for the Plaza Hotel, let's just say we cleared our calendars.  They were celebrating the 15th anniversary of Martha Stewart Weddings and you know they know how to put on a party.  The details.  The venue.  The guests.  The fashion.  The food.  The band.  All of it - amazing.  We had a blast!  Take a look at some of the party pics by Mel Barlow Photographers. 

Pictured below is bridal designer Amsale with Darcy Miller, showing off their pipe cleaner rings made upon entering the party.

Our friends and Martha Weddings gurus, Darcy and Anthony, striking a pose to be on the cover of the mag in the on-site digital photo studio.  Cakes by legend Sylvia Weinstock and a ballroom that was to die for.

The candy buffet by the talented Amy Atlas.

And my not so pro party pics with friends.  The bottom left is Jennifer Adams, our new nesting interior design expert (and my date for the night).  To the right is pretty much an Engage Alum photo with some of my favorite people.  Michelle Rago and friend, (me), Abby Larson from Style Me Pretty, and Marcy Blum.  We had so much fun, we practically closed the place down!   Thanks Darcy, Anthony, Martha, and everyone at MSLO!

Lilla Bello Dishes on Dinner Tables

We recently asked one of our favorite celeb florists, Toby Kassoy of Lilla Bello Studio what's hot in her garden when it comes to receptions.  Some hints to designing for that perfect party...

Red hot reception trend?  Smaller guest counts and one long feasting table says Toby!

LB: Let’s face it, no matter what your tax bracket, more and more brides are looking to save a few bucks but not sacrifice the beautiful details of their dream wedding vision. One way of doing this is by reducing their guest lists and opting for more intimate and personal weddings. Standard table set ups of 60” rounds are becoming a little bit sterile and impersonal. There are always people with their backs to one another and people are quarantined into small groups. There is no warmer and more celebratory tradition than that of ‘breaking bread’ together – and even more so, having your guests assembled (even scrunched) around one large banquet table which invites cheer, celebration, and community!

What kind of reception can pull off this structure?

LB: This type of tablescape has endless range, from black tie to backyard, from beach to vineyard, from modern contemporary to classic vintage – it’s truly limitless!

How do you dress it up to be a bit more formal?

LB: Choose a black linen with gold trimmed china, and crystal champagne flutes. Monochromatic florals in all whites and creams give a hint of romance and softness, but still screams black tie (and looks gorgeous next to the caviar!), tall candelabras strewn across the tablescape will achieve a feeling of grandeur, alongside antique votives which bring the soft light back down to the table. Keep it clean, don’t over do it – a single white garden rose tucked into the napkin…stunning.

What can you do to use the layout to your advantage?

LB: The true benefit to having this set up is that you can achieve maximum impact on one breathtaking table, as opposed to having the challenge of connecting and creating cohesiveness with multiple tables scattered around the room. Throughout history, the dining room table is a place of coming together, celebration, and communion, so it makes perfect sense to make this the central focal point of a wedding reception – sparing no detail from the linens to the china to the stemware. And then finishing it off with stunning floral centerpieces, tucking a blossom into each napkin, leaving a delicate trail of petals on the bread plate as if they accidentally (but perfectly) landed there all by themselves. It sends a message to your guests that their presence is important and without them, the table is simply not complete. I’ve found that whether there are 30 guests or 100 guests, there’s always a way to connect more tables and squeeze in a few more chairs….

What to look out for when sitting banquet style?

LB: It certainly does present some limits to the guest count when your having hundreds and hundreds of guests – but before you scrap the idea, get creative. I’ve seen this set up done with 3 huge banquet tables side-by-side in order to accommodate a larger guest count. It’s also an ideal opportunity to have you meal served family style, furthering that experience of community and celebration. Where else would your fiance’s fraternity brother be hollering at Aunt Margie to pass the potatoes!??

Thanks for the insights Toby! 

A Look at the Monique Lhuillier Runway

Last Sunday Monique Lhuillier debuted her spring 2010 bridal collection at bridal fashion week in New York. One word: breathtaking. 

We were lucky enough to be on hand with a front row view of the NYC show (where it took far to much willpower just to avoid reaching out and grabbing at those gowns).  This first photo (though from my quick point and shoot) really expresses the energy, excitement, people and crews at a show like this.  The models go down a long runway, in this case one that wrapped around the room to accommodate more guests.  The lights go out, the dozens of editors in the room are asked to uncross their legs (to avoid any model mishap), the music goes live and loud and the lights come back on and up to illuminate the most beautiful and well styled models gracefully floating down the runway in these ethereal gowns.  This collection was what can be expected from Monique - wonderful detail, exceptional lace, sparkling but delicate bling, pick-ups in the skirts, etc.  But this season also had a few floral elements, sheer bodices (sexy, sexy, sexy), and even some modern interpretations on the traditional bridal ball gown.  But besides the gowns, the headpieces and hand details (think fingerless sheer and beaded gloves) really stood out as spectacular.  We see a trend coming...better start saving for those couture accessories to go with your gown!

Real Life Chick Flick

See the poster this happy couple stands in front of?  That's inside the home of the newlyweds, Adriana and Jonathan.  The couple wed at their home, where much of their acting memorabilia resides.  Both bride and groom are actors who met met playing the leading roles in a romantic play together.  The poster is one from that performance.  In the story, they met and fall in love.  In life, it happened while telling that story on stage.  Real life fairytale come true (it can happen ladies)! And Roberto Valenzuela Photography captured that love and happy ending in these beautiful images. 

Almost as great as that poster?  The colorful ceremony dressing under a tree in their backyard. 

 Congrats to the happy couple!