Friday, November 6, 2009 at 4:00PM 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...
Thursday, November 5, 2009 at 7:09PM 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.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at 6:38PM 
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!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009 at 4:40PM 
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!
Kleinfeld Bridal, Randy Fenoli in fashion Monday, November 2, 2009 at 5:04PM 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!
Friday, October 30, 2009 at 2:28PM 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...
Pnina Tornai in events, fashion Thursday, October 29, 2009 at 3:39PM 
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.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009 at 1:46PM 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.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at 3:04PM 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!
Monday, October 26, 2009 at 1:11AM 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!
Friday, October 23, 2009 at 4:53AM 
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!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at 1:15PM 
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!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at 2:36PM Last month the wonderfully talented team of Destination Weddings & Honeymoons Magazine gathered the media of both bridal and lifestyle together to take about the state of the union and the trends to come in destination weddings. Perfect timing since destination wedding planning is the talk of just about every town these days, with more and more couples booking weekends away instead of backyard at-home "I do's." We were honored to be a part of the event's expert panel moderated by a great industry veteran, the editor-in-chief of the magazine, Susan Moynihan. Here are a few behind the scenes pics of the night at the famous Beverly Hills Hotel.
The parting gift - a yummy bottle of bubbly; the panel (from left to right): Sasha Souza, Susan Moynihan of DWH Mag, Harmony Walton (bridal bar!), and Tara Soloway of Luxe Destination Weddings (fab new business concept, a must-see). The fantastic cake that was served (with Susan channeling Vana in the photo), and lovely lavender floral treatments.
The most amazing cocktail treats ever - the jet setter drink, and the ballroom at the BH Hotel.
The trends we talked about? Muted jewel tones. More attention paid to the groom. Family-style served foods. Longer receptions. Longer reception tables. Continued use of signature cocktails. Food from start to finish of the event (think munchies at valet or even in the cars). And of course, more and more destination "I do's!"
All photos from the Destination Weddings & Honeymoons Blog (a must read for brides planning from afar).
Monday, October 19, 2009 at 3:12PM Last night we got a sneak peek at what Kirstie Kelly for Disney Fairy Tale Weddings will be rolling out in stores next spring. The collection was debuted for the press at the Waldorf in New York City (followed by a great after party at Nikki Beach). I always love going to Kirstie's show (one of my favs) because it's got so much energy and life to it. The starring flowers girls hurrying down the runway paired with the Disney brand, makes this night fun and upbeat, the way weddings should be (and of course, Disney knows how to put on a show!) We even got a little preview into the coming movie (and dress to match) for The Princess and the Frog. Here are a few quick (and not so pro) snapshots from our front show seats...
Friday, October 16, 2009 at 2:15AM The Plaza Hotel. Enough said. A bride's dream (remember the movie Bride Wars?!?) But what if you put a couture bridal shop inside the Plaza Hotel? Time for a trip! Italian haute couture designer Francesco Fino has just opened an atelier for custom-made bridal and evening gowns. (We’re told Francesco has a passion for rare and sumptuous fabrics and uses them as inspiration for fabulous frocks.) If you’re in the city, you’ve got to check out his design on both the hangers and in the dressing rooms (we hear the dressing rooms are really something to talk about)…offering more than your typical amount of privacy - decorated with chandelier, silk fabrics, and touches of modern luxury like stingray leather. Now that’s a Plaza bride!
Francesco Fino Bridal, Plaza Hotel in Fab Finds Fridays, fashion Thursday, October 15, 2009 at 1:47AM 
For the wedding industry pros out there on the east coast (or those willing to hop a quick flight to NY for some shopping and savvy business advice), come visit us at the Maximize Your Brand Event next week. The event is a two day event business symposium (Oct. 19-20th) at the cool new Ravel Hotel in Long Island City. Learn how to go green, protect your rights with contracts, get a bit more tech smart, and how to best market your business. It promises to be a great few days with intensive information, a media panel, talented speakers (including Bridal Bar) and of course a fabulous cocktail party or two! For more information or to sign up for this exciting event, visit Maximize Your Brand's website. And now back to our regularly scheduled programming.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009 at 7:39PM We asked makeup guru Mariah Nicole what she recommends when shopping for that perfect lip gloss, smoky eye shadow, and other makeup must-haves. A few tricks of the trade go along way.
How do you pick your purchases?
Mariah: Price is definitely a factor when purchasing makeup. Think about why the product would be $10.00 vs. $40.00: Are the ingredients the same? What are the main ingredients? How much perfume or alcohol is added? Does one fight aging? Give hydration? I think it is wise to spend a little extra on products that hit the majority of your skin directly, like a foundation primer and a liquid or powder foundation. Your chance of experiencing negative side-effects will generally be lower with a designer product.
Is Organic really better or just a fad?
Mariah: Realize that your skin is an organ of your body and the largest one too! Your skin absorbs what goes on it and filters it into your body. Using organic products ensures harmful chemicals don’t cause premature aging and break outs. Surveys show that the average American woman eats 4 – 7 pounds of lipstick every year! When you think about those numbers over a lifetime, the importance of using a natural lipstick and glosses soars.
Even using naturally derived or organic hair care is better. It’s less drying and gentler than other products. Organic hair care can prevent fading color, add shine and improve texture. Plus, many people are allergic to the fragrances added to products and natural or organic products are typically fragrance-free, many using only essential oils.
How should one select the right color for their skin?
Mariah: For the most natural look, choose a shade that matches your neck. You want to avoid a line around your jaw! If you want to go darker, I suggest applying a liquid/cream/foam bronzer to the entire face, neck and chest (if visible) first. Then choose a makeup that matches your new tan.
Most women have a hard time finding the exact shade. They are between shades. If possible, search for a salon or artist that custom blends the foundation or powder to match your natural skin tone and evens the tone. Some companies now offer a type of makeup that automatically adjusts to your tone.
How do I apply without that caked on look?
Mariah: Lighting is probably the big issue. I’ve been to many clients’ homes and 98 percent have very bad lighting for makeup. Think about replacing your current lights with natural sunlight or purchasing a lighted mirror with light settings. The major cause of heavy makeup is dark lighting!
Also, look at yourself at different distances from the mirror to gauge how much cover-up you need. Just stand back from the mirror if you are close-up. This trick does wonders! If you’re friends are still wiping extra makeup off your face, then consider using your foundation first, not your concealer. Many foundations, liquid, cream & powder, will cover most blotches and blemishes alone. Then take a powder brush, and buff your face to remove excess makeup.
What are your go-to products? Must-haves for every gal?
Mariah: MAC Pro-Longwear Glosses, Carabella Fruit Lip Balm, Makeup Forever HD Primer #1, L'Oreal Naturale Mascara, Illuminare Cream Mineral Blush.
(Take a peek at how Mariah does her own do and fab makeup...this is her!)
Black & White Images by Isabel Lawrence Photographers.
Friday, October 9, 2009 at 2:35PM 
Looking for something special but just a bit different to get your bridesmaids? We opened our email this week and stumbled upon these fabulous pieces over at Hazel & Harlow. Rings, earrings, pendants; all oh-so unique you might just have to get yourself one too! The pieces are made from sterling silver and 24K gold vermeil. Each piece is hand carved, hand etched and enhanced with topaz stones. Yummy!
Thursday, October 8, 2009 at 1:30PM One of our favs, Paper Olive just shared with us that one of the biggest trends she's seeing is with the use of this little creature - the ladybug! We might not have guessed it, but this polka dotted little insect has flown into the world of weddings and is taking it by storm. For a more fun and playful wedding day motif, consider the big impact this small guy has. Oh and a tip, get matching custom postage for the festive finishing touch!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009 at 2:12AM 
Color makes everything brighter (no pun intended). So when celebrating, spark up the party with popping colors and fun phrases at every turn and no doubt you'll put your guests in a festive mood. We love the creativity and happiness that oozes from this recent wedding shot by the talented Laura Grier of Beautiful Day Photography.
How smart - "drink" marking the bar station with a splash of the couple's signature color! A little creativity goes a long way!
Photos by Beautiful Day Photography.
