Traditions: Then and Now - Wedding Gifts

Clearing out my emails today and came across a blog article titled "Why We Give Wedding Gifts".  Informative if nothing else, but finding out that Macy's began their bridal registry services in 1924.

Times have for sure changed.  Statistically, more couples have lived together before marriage, and most retailers says that registering for appliances and household goods are down.  Personally, I blame it more on the fact that a Vitamix is $600, and  people aren't comfortable asking someone to buy them a $600 blender.

To view a history of bridal gifting, click here.

Father Of The Bride - Movie

Father of the bride by lotti

I will admit to enjoying the version with Steve Martin more so that the Spencer Tracy/Elizabeth Taylor version. Both however, rank in my Top Ten Wedding Movies. 

Biblical Power Couples: Priscilla and Aquila

Happy Sunday Everyone.  

I skipped church today and slept in.  So as the day has worn on, I've felt inclined to get some bible in my spirit today.  Feeling like I also need to make a blog pot since I haven't in almost a week.  

Thus, I bring you: Power Couples of the Bible. 

Priscilla and Aquila were tentmakers that were exiled under an emperor that decided that all Jewish people were to leave Rome, in the year 49.  

They lived with Paul for 18 months and according to bible scholars were considered a part of the early converts of Judaism to Christianity.  During this time they lived, worked and travel with Paul and are considered as part of the Seventy Disciples.  That is, some of the earlier students of Jesus.

They are both mentioned several times in the New Testament. They are, however,  always mentioned together. Never separately.  Being described as each other mate, friend, partner and companion should be something that every marriage strives for. Inseparable and equal. 

How do you and your mate define your equality with each other?  

Please fee free to comment below.

Manifest Design Jewelry

Are you looking for one of a kind type jewelry for your wedding day?

If so, you should consider Manifest Design. 

Based in India and established in 2013, siblings Manreet and Samratt created a company that would create one of kind "everyday wearable art".

Each piece is created by initially sculpting it in clay.  It is then cast in brass and aluminum.

Each piece is entirely handcrafted and is not mass-produced.  Because when you think about it, who needs mass-produced jewelry on their wedding day?

You can order the pieces in metals described as Espresso, Goldtone and Silvertone.

Image Credit

Bridal Party Performance - Beyoncé Drunk In Love

This bride and her attendants performed "Drunk In Love" for the groomsmen. 



Would you consider this appropriate?  What about the children that are there?  Would you have stayed and cheered the ladies on or would you have left the room? 

House of Versace

House of Versace by tessbuckler

Planning On Doing Your Own Make-up???

It can be costly to hire a make up artist to follow you throughout your wedding day.  Even if you hire someone to do your make-up before the ceremony, you're bound to need some touch-ups between the end of the ceremony and all the hugs, kisses and well-wishes to follow.

We've found a few "DIY" kits that will make doing you own make-up easy and beautiful

Bare Minerals "I Do" Kit

This kit contains a waterproof mascara, a dual eyeshadow palette in pink and plum, and rosy pink lipstick, a nude pink blush and translucent powder with an SPF 15.  It all comes in a keepsake train case that can be used later for carrying other products or adding to this collection with some other shades you would wear.

Bobbi Brown has a "Here Comes the Bride" article on their site that give step by step instructions for creating the perfect look for your day.  View it here.  The Bright Eyes Palette is a good starting point. 

I think the colors in Deborah Lippman's"Happily Ever After" Collection are perfect for spring and summer weddings.  You can also end your quest to find the "something blue" for the wedding, by using the "Something Blue" polish in this collection.

Future - I Won - ft. Kanye West

Kanye and Kim ---- So disappointed in TMZ. We want photos!!!

 

According to TMZ, here's a wedding photo from Kanye and Kim's wedding.  I have just found myself too consumed with this wedding today.  Either way.  Congrats to #kimye.  I cannot wait until they sell the pictures. 

Peachy Peach

Peachy Peach 

Bobby Brown - Something In Common ft. Whitney Houston

One of my favorite moments of their love.  #reallove #celebrities #lovesongs 

Zoya Nude Nails - 2014

Zoya Nude Nails - 2014 

Spring has finally arrived, both the calender and Atlanta weather are finally coming into sync.

The nude nail will always be a favorite during the warmer months and there are many color options available including blush, pink, creams, and chocolates.  Yes, a chocolate nude. 

Zoya Polishes are long lasting and toxin free.  The brand was recently named by Martha Stewart Weddings as the Best Natural nail polish. Is a better endorsement needed?

I'm enamored with Zoya PixieDust polishes.  While they can be worn alone, I normally try and find a comparable shade as a base coat, and then cover that with the Pixie Dust polish.   The Zoya Pixie Dust in Godiva, is a beige nude with heavy sparkle.   

Zoya's Amanda shade is peachy cream polish with pink and brown undertones. A beautiful shade for darker skin tones. 

The Rue shade is a nude pink shade.  Part of the Naturel Collection and can be mixed with other colors in the collection to create your own shade. Also included in the collection is the Taylor shade.  A light toffee cream color.  Click here to view the entire collection for ideas on tone on tone coloring. 

Wedding Trends - High-Low Wedding Dresses

Even though they have been around for a few years asymmetrical styles continue to be a very popular style among brides.

The high-low or as more commonly referred to, the hi-lo dress continues to show up in many designers collections for remainder of 2014.

These designs work well for those that have toned legs, so keep that in mind when thinking of your pre-wedding workout.

If you want a dress that gives you the appeal of a long dress, but delivers a fun and flirty attitude, consider the high-low option.

BCBG Clarissa Sleeveless High-Low Gown

Jenny Lee Strapless Lace and Tulle Gown 

Lazaro Chantilly Lace and Tulle Gown

Layered Organza Lace Gown 

Keep in mind, with this style, your shoes will get plenty of attention also.  In other words, GREAT SHOES are a must.

Pink Pink Pink All Pink

Pink Pink Pink All Pink

Are you a courageous bride?  

Would you be willing to wear a strapless leather mini dress for your wedding?  

Cue up the DJ and strut yourself on into the wedding or reception in this years trendy pink pink pink.

Brides are returning to romance and softness in their weddings this year.   This pretty pink mini dress with woven front by Balmain , will show your guest that you are a take charge kind of bride, it says, I'm staring a new tradition. 

Jimmy Choo's "Lottie" sandals have a slight bit of sparkle.  The wide straps across the foot and the ankle strap will keep you feet secure and comfy for greeting guest and that famous first dance.  

When it comes to jewelry.  Who can deny that David Yurman pieces are classic and traditional enough for any sort of affair, and you will treasure wearing them again and again.  

The Judith Lieber, crystal heart minaudiere will not only capture attention but will sparkle long into the night.

Wedding Flowers - Peonies

Wedding Flowers - Peonies

The peony is steadily making its way as one of the most popular wedding flowers this year.  The peony is a flower plant that is native to Asia, Southern Europe and Western North America.  Some of the plants can resemble trees and grow up to ten feet tall.

Jo Malone has create a scent that can be worn before, during and after your ceremony.  The fragrance also comes in a body and hand wash, body creme and a candle with a 45 hour burn time. 

There is a 30Ml fragrance size for your bridesmaids and other attendants if you decide you'd like them to have a whiff of your wedding flowers for days to come. 

A truly luxurious fragrance with layers of peonies, rose and honey accents. The base notes of amberwood and white musk will lean towards a clean soft fragrance.

 

Happy 70th Birthday Diana Ross - THE BOSS!!

Maybe two weeks ago, I caught the Central Park concert she did in 1983 for over 80,000 people.  It rained and rained, they pratcially ended up having to pull the plug to get her to stop performing. 





70 years young today.  Happy Birthday Miss Ross!!

Oh. He Vouged??

I'm sure by now, you've had a chance to chime in on the Kanye and Kim cover, but how cute is Kermit and Miss Piggy's mock cover?

Too funny.

Kim's cover photo features her in a white strapless Lanvin wedding gown, and the inside story shows, Kim, Kanye and baby North who is growing into her own look.  While, I will admit to being a Kanye fan and think he's great musically, I can live with or without Kim.

However, I must agree with Vogue editor, Anna Wintour, they both exemplify our culture and live  live up to the hashtag #worldsmosttalkedaboutcouple.  I mean, really, when was the last time a Vogue cover created this much conversation?

We've taken the liberty of picking our a few Lanvin faves.

 

Lanvin Wedding Gown - Ivory Maxi dress with rope straps and lobster closure.  Ruched neck and long draped silhouette.

Lanvin Rose and Silver High Top Sneakers - Leather high tops in rose and silver.  Tan ribbon shoelace. 

Lanvin Quilted Mini - in Ivory lambskin with signature hardware.

Lanvin "Love" Two-Finger Ring

Butterscotch and Champagne

Butterscotch and Champagne by buffyb

Year of the Horse - A Horse Wedding

Being so new at blogging, I figure I need to get a few real weddings in my life, so I can be fully vested in this new venture.  I've been super excited about the Year of the Horse celebrations, and have even purchased a few Year of the Horse items and create a Pinterest board for this blog and my own personal Pinterest page.

So, I'm super excited to announce my first "real wedding" blog item.

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to attend a Horse wedding.  Yes, it is exactly what you are thinking it is.

Save the Horse Rescue is a non-profit organization in Cumming, GA that has for the last 16 years, being rescuing needy horses without any form of government assistance.

They threw a wedding for two of the horses there, Beauty and Patches, two horses that have become inseparable on the farm.  The reception was of course, hay and other horse treats, but what else would they have served for such a beautiful occasion.

Thankful for a beautiful weather, the wedding went off without a hitch (pun intended).  A mini-horse served as the ring bearer. The bride and groom were friendly with their guest and seemingly adored all the attention being given to them.

 

Ring Bearer

 Beauty being escorted down the "aisle"

 Like most brides would have done, she paused after her garter slipped and patiently waited for it to be slid back up her leg by her handler. 

The I Do's. 

Sorry for the lack of pictures of the groom.  I think I totally forgot about him, (just like in a real wedding) but assure you that he was decked out in a black top hat for the ceremony. 

Congratulations to the Bride and Groom. 

If you'd like to volunteer or make a donation to the rescue, please click here.

Lush Products

Lush Products

I am probably one of the biggest LUSH fans that I know and have gotten my family members hooked on their products also.

I always have their products on my gift "wish-lists" that I hand out to friends, family, co-workers and even strangers if asked. 

Recently I was in their Perimeter Mall location here in Atlanta, and maybe it was because I was dressed in all black, but before I realized it, I was making suggestions to a lady that asked what would I recommend.

That got me to thinking, what great gifts these products would make for wedding attendants or that very very special guest.   Most items are also available in gift sets, or you can use their scarves and wraps to make your own gifts.

Brainstorm in place, I headed to the food court, went to their website and went to hunting for gifts ideas that I would suggest. 

In a world where often things are described as "green" or "eco-friendly", you will find that the LUSH company holds true to their policy of making products from organic products and essential oils. Products are made by hand and only vegetarian products are used. 

If you live near a LUSH store, I would suggest going inside and getting a few "try-me".   They are happy to give you "samples" of certain products.

Top row, left to right 

1.  Soft Coeur (The Honeymooner) - A massage bar made with honey, chocolate, cocoa butter and almond oils.   Who refuses honey or chocolate?

2.  Neon Love Soap - Made with bergamont, rosewood and cinnamon.

3.  Olive Branch Shower Gel - Go on, admit it, you went into bridezilla mode, and you owe someone an apology, olive branch.  This shower gel is a blend of organic olive oils, sea salt and fresh mandarin juice.  Its uplifting scent will bring peace of mind to that one person who went above and beyond in dealing with you and your pre-wedding jitters.

Bottom Row, left to right 

1.  25:43 Perfume - LUSH inventor and co-founder Mark Constantine created this perfume for his son's wedding.  A light and clean scent with layers of lime, lemongrass, vanilla, and listsea are used to create this fragrance. 

2.  Love Solid Perfume - Citrus, rose and jasmine oil.   Can be worn by men and women.  Layers of apples and cinnamon spice provide a comforting scent. 

3.   It Started With A Kiss - Lip tint, will give you a sheer ruby red pout.  Can also be worn as a cheek stain.  The LUSH rep advises that you use a lip scrub before using this product to remove any dead skin from your lips.

4.  Sex Bomb - Insert giggle.  This may be one to keep for yourself.   Even the LUSH people call it an aphrodisiac.  It contains jasmine and ylang ylang.  Soya milk will turn your water  milky and turns any bath into a opulent soak.  One of their best selling items. 

 

Crowns

I've always been a fan of flower crowns, so I'm really excited to see them becoming such a popular wedding trend. 

If you are the DIY type, I suggest you get yourself down to Michael's and do a couple of test runs, keep in mind however, if you plan to use real flowers the day of your ceremony, you will want to practice with live flowers at some point.  They will be more gentle you don't want the crown falling apart at some point during the wedding activities. 

Cocoroas recently posted 15 different tutorials if you decide the DIY route is for you. 

Here's is my favorite.

Fawn DIY Floral Crown 

If you prefer to have someone else create the crown for you, there are many vendors available.  Some of my favorites are found on Etsy.  Skill levels and prices can vary.  

honeycomb

I get excited when the people at Cult Gaia post new pictures to their Instagram page. Their items make me want to wear a flower crown everyday.  Their Lana crown, in purple, is on my list to things to figure into my spring and summer wardrobe. 

Don't forget to measure your head size before you get started. 

St. Patrick Day Wedding Reception Outfit

St. Patrick Day Wedding Reception Outfit

Its so dreary in Atlanta today.  Rain in the forecast for the next two days.  

On days like this, I like bold metallics that force my fashion world to shine even if the rest of the world isn't.

Christian Dior Sparkling Gold Nail Polish and  Bare Minerals Eye Shadow in True Gold will keep you sparkling and not clash with other golds for a subtle hint of the most precious of metals. 

Kenneth Jay Lane jewelry has multiple prices points.  Some of the pieces are so bold and daring and others are quite simple.  The line presents so many viable options, its would be a shame to overlook this line when you consider jewelery options. 

Sniffle, Sneeze, Cough

Please forgive my absence in the last few days.  The horrible up and down temperatures in Atlanta, has this blogger downing Mucinex and drinking soup.   Last week, one night at 9:30pm,  it was 72 degrees and the following night it was down to 36 degrees. (sniff)

I didn't, however, allow this horrible bug to keep me from dragging myself up off the sick couch and made it to Oh Brides, magazine release party on Thursday night.

The party was held at La Maison De La Bridal Salon, in Lenox Square Mall.

The Winter/Spring 2014 cover, The Painted Veil, by Laretta Houston is breathtakingly beautiful in a way not generally seen on bridal covers.

The rhinestone encrusted headphone wearing DJ, kept the attendees swaying to the beat and kept the tunes lively and danceable.  Everyone mingled while sipping cocktails featured by Lyghthouse Cocktails. If you are thinking of creating a signature drink you should contact this mobile bartending catering company to customize your bar experience for receptions and showers.

I finally got an opportunity to get my hands on one of Atlanta-Award winning photographer Robin Gaucher photo albums.  I was super shocked at how small one of the "photo albums" were compared to the standard 10 x 10 or 8 x 12 sizes generally featured at these types of events.

I stayed a little bit longer and wished the young lady that won the gift certificate for $1000 off the cost of gown, a few congratulatory terms and headed out the door, crumpled handkerchief in hand.

Be sure to pick up your copy of OhBride, the magazine layout and articles are amazingly beautiful and informative.  (send your groom to the Suit and Tie article on page 90)

St. Patrick Day Wedding

St. Patrick Day Wedding

If you are having a St. Patrick's Day wedding, there are so many options available to keep your guest from feeling like they are watching the remake of the Leprechaun (who knew Jennifer Aniston would make it this far), by keeping the shades of green natural and within the same family.  In other words: Not all green goes together. 

Keep that in mind, and your guest will be sure to leave with a joyous memory instead of whispering, where did they get that idea from?

The four leaf clover flips flops can be used as gift favors, or the bride can slip them on to prevent ailing feet.  A small minaudiers in green sparkle will make a keepsake that can be used over and over the years. Who knows maybe someone will be encouraged to drop in a few gold coins for you.

Don't forget to include the color in your make up, but be tasteful.  30 years from now, you don't want to look at your wedding photos and say, did i really need to wear green lipstick in my wedding photos?

Spritz yourself with your favorite fragrance and think of the quote "for each petal on the shamrock, this brings a wish your way, good health, good luck and happiness for today and everyday."

Orange Lip Trends - Spring/Summer 2014

Orange Lip Trends - Spring/Summer 2014

Are you open to going with a bold orange lip for your ceremony?  Is orange part of your wedding scheme but you don't know if you will be comfortable with such a bold color on your wedding day?

Well, hopefully, I can help.  I spent the day at the beauty counters and found a few choices to consider, so regardless if you want a gloss, matte or super shine, there is something for everyone and every skin tone in this season's hottest lip color.  

I will tell anyone, when it comes to lip pencils, I'm a Nars junkie.  They have what would be consider an orange-red color called Timanfaya. It starts off as a soft satin, but turns into more of a matte finish as it sets.   Clinique Chubby Stick  in Oversized Orange is very pretty and takes several layers to build up to a bold orange, I call it a "nude-orange".  It helps that the Clinique products are created with shea butter, so this will provide much needed moisture for your lips. 

If lip gloss is your personal choice, the Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss in Citrus is sheer sheer sheer.  I suggest that you find a lip color you like and layer this on top for an extra hint of orange, that is unless, sheer is the way you want to go.  TopShop has also entered the orange game with their Lip Cream in Pout.  High gloss is the only way to describe this.  Maybe I just love tangerines, but I got excited over just the name of Jane Iredale Lip gloss in Tangerine.

I was floored at the number of actual lipstick options in orange, and finally had to give up because again, I think you can find something that compliments any skin tone and no one ever finds the perfect lipstick on the first time out, so be prepared for many options.  For example, MAC had four different orange options available.   I found their Morange lipstick, creamy color and BRIGHT.  If you aren't afraid to go bright, this is surely an option to consider.  Dior Rouge Lipstick (543) Vous is another rich creamy lip option.

 

Waterford Registry

When it comes to Waterford Crystal items, I'm a Yes, Please, and Thank You kinda girl.

Even if these types of pieces are not your day to day style, I encourage you to include a piece or two on your registry. 

You can use the flutes for special occasions during the marriage.

Need a place to put flowers, why not a beautiful crafted vase or bowl?

Waterford Crystal Evolution Oasis Round Bowl 

  

Waterford Colour Me Lismore 8" Flared Vase 

Waterford Lismore Jewels Toasting Flutes - Aquamarine 

I Thee Wed Coasters 

TLC Four Weddings Casting Call

Want to get married on National TV?

Really?

Well if so, and you are getting married within an hour drive of New York City,  you can sign up for the casting call.

The wedding must be taking place between April and October 2014.

Be sure to let us know if you get selected!!  Good Luck

They are also casting for Say Yes to The Dress and Something Borrowed, Something New

Short Wedding Dresses

If you are planning a spring or summer wedding, you can consider the short dress options available.  Also, brides with long legs may want to consider this an option for showing off a little leg style.

Designers are releasing more short dress designs than they have in the past, and even if you can't fully commit to a short dress for you ceremony, these dresses also will give you an idea if you plan to change into a different dress for your reception or for showers and parties.

Depending on your style and comfort level, not to mention the type of ceremony you are going to have, you can go with either a mini dress or something longer and still have a beautiful wedding dress. 

We've found a few styles to get you motivated in your search.


BCBG V-Neck Lace Tiered Dress

 BHLDN (exclusive) Omari Dress

Hawaiian  Hi-Lo Wedding Dress

Carol Hanna Bustier Dress

 

 Monique Lhuillier Lace Dress and Coat

Ash Wednesday

Today is the first day of Lent for 2014. Also known as Ash Wednesday.

Taking a break today to reflect and give thanks.

Have you decided what to give up yet?  Are you giving up anything?

Wonder why such an ancient tradition still has so much power?  Click here.

Gown or No??

Wedding Trend - Jumpsuits

Let's just say that a long full belle of the ball gown is not your taste of the perfect wedding attire.  Maybe this is a second, third marriage and you don't look forward to chasing wedding gown designers and trunk shows all over the city.  Then, the Wedding Jumpsuit is something you should consider.

Earlier this year, J. Crew released a bridal jumpsuit and it quickly sold out. 

Even if you  your mother can't even begin to phantom you wearing anything other than a traditional dress, the following jumpsuits and rompers will make for a great outfit for showers, receptions and honeymoons.

 Black Halo Jackie Jumpsuit in Winter White

 Ritsuko Open Bac Lace Jumpsuit

Adams Lippes Plunging V Jumpsuit

Lauren Fringe Trim Playsuit

Stella McCartney Organic Cotton Jumpsuit

Vegas Brides

Wedding Trends - Feathers

Vegas Brides

Another trend for weddings for 2014 is feathers.

While some brides may use feathers for a more vintage and formal affair, I couldn't help but think, I'd be more likely to choose feathers for my Vegas wedding than any other venue.

Feathers from all types of birds are used to augment the costumes that the Vegas showgirls wear.  They don't add much additional weight and some can be encrusted with glitter and rhinestones. 

We've found a few dresses that feature feathers, so Vegas wedding are not, if this is a trend you would like to consider, view our other picks. 

 Mark Zunion For Kleinfeld

 Strapless White Cocktail Dress w/Feather Details

 

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Will and Jada - Favorite Couple Alert (Academy Awards - 2014)

 

From the look on Will's face, you'd think.....did she get dressed at home and ride in the limo to the show with him? I love the fact that he still looks at her like she takes his breath away everyday. 

 

 

My favorite couple of the night, goes to none other than Mr. and Mrs. Smith.

Jada started the night in a very pretty pink Versace dress, but turned to a blush color Roberto Cavalli gown for the Vanity Fair Oscar Party.  Will wore a pair of  Berluti velvet smoking slippers with open ascot for the award show and changed into a different tux for the after-party

Will took some slack thorough the evening for his first outfit and his scruffy beard look.  I say, Big Willie been in Hollywood so long that he's earned the right to not follow all the stuffy trends.  They both ended up looking great.

The plunge in Jada's second dress gave me life and sent me right back to the treadmill.  This from a lady that had us all thinking she wouldn't fit into her Oscar dress after a friend sent her a picture that shows she's gained 8-10 lbs.