Monday, March 31, 2014

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.

Friday, March 28, 2014

Pink Pink Pink All Pink

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.

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Wedding Flowers - Peonies

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!!

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

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.

 Kim and Yeezus!

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




Monday, March 24, 2014

Butterscotch and Champagne

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.





Wednesday, March 19, 2014

Lush Products

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. 

 

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

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.



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. 

Monday, March 17, 2014

St. Patrick Day Wedding Reception Outfit

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. 




Saturday, March 15, 2014

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)











Wednesday, March 12, 2014

St. Patrick Day Wedding

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."

Monday, March 10, 2014

Orange Lip Trends - Spring/Summer 2014

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.

 

Friday, March 7, 2014

Waterford Registry

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?

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

Thursday, March 6, 2014

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







Wednesday, March 5, 2014

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.

Tuesday, March 4, 2014

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




Monday, March 3, 2014

Vegas Brides

Wedding Trends - Feathers



Vegas Brides

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
 



.

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.


Saturday, March 1, 2014

Destination Weddings Dos and Don'ts


Destinations weddings account for almost 30% of all US weddings.

A destination wedding is described as a wedding that takes place at least 200 miles from where the marrying couple lives.

So here are a few rules to make it pleasant for your guest and yourselves.

1.  Keep it small. 
  •  Invite those that are closest to you. This is not going to be an affair with hundreds of guests.
  • Send out your Save-The-Date cards, nine to twelve months in advance.
  •  Follow up with formal invitations, three to six months in advance.
2.  Be mindful of the cost to others.
  •  Technically, the bride and groom pay the cost for the ceremony and reception to include food, drinks, entertainment, etc. 
  • Guest traditionally pay for their own travel and lodging and any activities not associated with the wedding.  If you know someone can't afford the trip it is considerate to offer to pay some or all of their expenses.  Be discreet that you are covering the cost. 
  • Be up front about the cost, and double-check that there are no hidden costs or fees that your guest will incur.
3.   Invites
  • Of course, there are going to be some people that you aren't going to invite, and if someone ask why they weren't invited, be honest.  Keep it simple, an elaborate reply is not required.  Simply state, its a small ceremony and you only invited those closest to you and your fiance.
  •  Don't want kids at your wedding.  It would be the same as a traditional ceremony, be sure to include this information with your invitation. 
4.  Should you expect gifts?
  •  Yes, you are still allowed to register for gifts.  Some people may even donate to your costs for the wedding and activities, but do not use this as an excuse to hit your family, friends, co-workers and others up for cash gifts.  Keep your own cost in mind, and be realistic-is this is something you can afford without additional help?
  • Keep in mind with your guest that have accepted your invitation that "their presence is the present."
More questions on Destination Weddings.  Click here



Mother of the Bride