June 2009 Archives

You've planned. You're prepped. But even little things, if done improperly, can make a great wedding feel less than perfect.

 

Do: Waterproof those eyes

Invest in a good waterproof mascara and test drive it before your wedding. You'll be glad you did when cameras capture your tears of joy.

 

Do: Wedding dress trial runs

Your bridal gown may look stunning at your final fitting. But you won't have a store full of assistants to help you into your dress on your big day.

Practice putting on your dress at home. Also, pay attention to bustling your dress properly. This will keep you from stepping on your gown during your first dance with your new husband.

 

Don't: Get a facial

Never have a facial the day before your wedding. Your complexion will be riddled with red marks from the impurities drawn from your skin.

 

Do: Listen to your gut

It's tough to do, especially when you've got family and friends voicing their opinions on what dress to buy, what meal to select and so on. If a twinge of uncertainty strikes you over any decision don't proceed. Instead, take a day or two to think things over and follow your instincts.

 

Do: Must-have list of photos

Never assume that a wedding photographer will get every shot you want at your wedding. To avoid any important omissions create a precise photo list, with full names and their relation to you and your groom. Deliver the list to your photographer a few weeks before your wedding.

 

Don't: Get your first-ever lip wax

Never do a waxing the day before your wedding. The procedure can cause breakouts in the waxed area. The pull of the wax strips can also leave lips looking blistered and swollen.

 

 

Finding the right wedding formalwear begins with a plan. Colors, theme, price points, cuts...It all comes into play for brides and grooms when they choose their wedding day attire.

 

Yet for many men the thought of choosing a tux for their walk down the aisle can make them panic.

 

Relax. With these simple tips you can help your groom pick the perfect tux and truly look like the man of your dreams on your big day.

 

Theme and location

Having a destination wedding? Getting married on a yacht? Whether it's a big formal affair or a small, garden-sized do in your parent's back yard your wedding's theme and location will impact the tux and accessories your fiancé chooses.

 

Make sure the fabric, cut and color of your tux takes all these factors into consideration, as well as the time of day for your wedding.

 

Great tux style

A groom's tux has to reflect his personality. But it also has to say something about you as a couple.

 

If you're a traditional couple going for a big church wedding opt for a classic tux or tails.

 

Do you embrace a bit of an edge in your wardrobe and surroundings? Then choose a one-button tux accented by a stylish Euro tie and matching vest.

 

Still unsure? When in doubt, go for a timeless two-button tux with a peak lapel.

 

Color story

Having an ultra formal wedding? If so, elegant shades of black and silver are excellent choices for your groom's perfect tux pick.

 

Not sure what to choose for accents? No problem.  Let the color of your flowers pop up in vests and ties for your groom and his groomsmen. Little color details like these will give any bridal party a strong, beautiful, cohesive feel as they walk down the aisle.

 

A beach or destination wedding offers amazing seaside vistas of brilliant blues and soft sands, and are perfect for a relaxed, informal event. Your dress may be airy and flowing made from lightweight fabrics like silk or charmeuse designed by Sandals Destination Bridal or Demetrios. Your flowers may be peonies, hydrangea or orchids in sunset hues of orange, yellow, pink or purple and accented with grasses or berries. And your jewelry may consist of multiple strands of organic elements like pearl, shell, turquoise or coral. If so, the perfect complement to your breezy, beach wedding attire would be soft, wavy curls worn all or half down and accented with fresh blooms.

 

 

Getting married for the second time can make many brides feel additional stress, particularly when it comes to choosing the right wedding gown.

 

But here's the great news: No hard-and-fast rules apply any longer about what to wear when a woman takes her second walk down the aisle.

 

It's all about personality. How you decide to express it is really up to you. Whether you choose a glorious, traditional gown or something more contemporary these tips will make your bridal dress selection process a breeze.

 

Simple does it

Some second-time brides may opt for a very frilly wedding dress. If you can pull it off that's fine. But for most women clean, simple styles usually work best.

 

No matter how much you love a dress if it doesn't flatter your figure don't buy it. Instead, start with sophisticated sheath styles or classic A-line cuts.  These elegant, timeless options make most brides look and feel fabulous.

 

Easy on the accents

Som second-time brides may be well suited to a dramatic gown with strong accent details. But for most women embarking on wedding #2 clean and simple is the way to go.

 

Look for unfussy embellishments and beading on straps, necklines, hemlines and around the bodice. Remember, oversized jewels are great on your hand. But too much bling will make all eyes fall on your gown, not you.

 

Color confidential

The classic white gown may be a great option if your 19 and have flawless skin. But second-time brides can benefit from other, more subtle color choices for their wedding gown.

 

Instead of bright white, go for shades of blush, cream, platinum or champagne. These colors bring warmth to the skin and a level of sophistication to gowns for grownup girls.

 

A classic wedding is defined by timeless decor with traditional and refined elements. Your dress may be a simple a-line made from silk or satin with understated detailing from a designer such as Jenny Lee or the Vineyard Collection by Priscilla of Boston. Your flowers may be roses or calla lilies in a soft peach, pink, cream or white. And your jewelry may consist of a simple pearl strand or a delicate crystal pendant or stud earrings. If so, the perfect complement to your classic style wedding attire would be an elegant, polished updo with a pearl or crystal accent such as a tiara or comb; and a simple, sheer veil.

Fresh Greens: A grass or pear green may seem like an unusual choice for a wedding color, but when paired with a vibrant pink, fiery orange, pale purple, sunny yellow or even a virgin white, it becomes the perfect accent for the modern wedding. Look to bouquets for color inspiration - fuchsia peonies accented with grass green berries, lime green button poms mixed with orange calla lilies, fresh green hydrangeas paired with lilac roses and green and white cymbidium orchids.

Metallics: Gold or Platinum will add a glamorous sparkle to any modern wedding. Whether you prefer the warm tint of gold or the silvery shine of platinum you can add a touch of elegance or drama to your wedding decor. If you prefer gold - pair with a petal pink, pear green or ivory for an elegant flare; or try a deep wine red, espresso or marine blue for a dramatic flare. If you prefer platinum - pair with lavender, Tiffany blue or pale yellow for a touch of elegance; or try a clover green, fuchsia or deep orange for some drama.

Robin's Egg Blue: The perfect way to add the "something blue" to your wedding. This turquoise shade of blue can easily create either a trendy or classic palette, depending on what colors it is paired with. For a trendy palette, choose a bold yellow or orange for a complementary accent; or a similar shade of blue or green for a monochromatic theme. For a classic feel, choose a formal color such as black or espresso and ivory; or for an elegant twist, pair with platinum or gold.

Deep Browns: An espresso or chocolate brown is a great neutral for a modern wedding. Dark brown pairs well with a wide range of colors and looks great against a pop of saturated color. For a bold statement, pair with a vibrant orange, pink or lime green. For a more traditional pairing, choose a cream or wheat. And for a touch of glam, add a shiny gold accent. 

You can spend all the money in the world on a fabulous wedding dress. But if your hairstyle is off you'll be throwing your money away on your big day.

 

Finding the right hairstyle may seem almost as challenging as landing the right bridal gown. So many options. So many variables to consider, particularly if you're planning a destination wedding on some faraway beach.

 

But with these basic beauty tips this season's hottest wedding gowns and necklines can be beautifully accessorized by your crowning glory.

 

The ruffled halter:  Layered fabric that sits high on the neck adds a stunning dose of wedding day drama. But it also requires a sleek hairstyle that won't conflict with this big fashion statement. Go for the sophisticated updo. It's a classic option that never fails.

 

The V-neck gown: The big, voluptuous waves of a faux bob bring a relaxed, flapper feel to this style of wedding gown. This hairstyle's fullness also tricks the eye and balances out a dress with tiny, delicate shoulder straps.

 

The strapless gown: Free-flowing curls are a great option to offset any pleating around the bust area.  Also, loose, voluminous waves that are worn half up and half down even out the look of a fuller bust.

 

The boatneck gown: A classic French twist is the perfect complement to this sleek neckline. Also, the boatneck's unadorned feel makes the perfect counterpoint to upswept hair topped with an ornate headpiece.

 

Every bride wants a beautiful, luminous glow on her wedding day. But all sun-kissed bridal looks are not created equal.

 

Facial fix

A facial will improve your skin's condition and give it a great glow. But never have a facial the week of your wedding. Skin needs time to recover after impurities have been drawn to the skin's surface. Instead, start your bridal facial regime several months earlier and work up to your big day.

 

Self-tanner trouble

Never test out a self-tanner the night before your wedding. The product could streak. It might not deliver the degree of color you want. Then there's that funny smell that so many self-tanners leave behind on the skin.

Instead, use a bronzing powder. Apply it lightly to any place the sun would naturally hit such as cheekbones, the jaw line and forehead.

 

Toss old self-tanners

You may have a self-tanning product that you love and trust. Even so, never use the remnants from last year's tube. The color could have turned, especially if the product has been exposed to air.  Always invest a fresh supply for your wedding day.

 

Foundation fix

Even if you have a flawless complexion a sheer foundation can enhance your glow. Choose a color that is an exact match to your skin. Also, to avoid foundation melting off during an outdoor ceremony apply foundation with a sponge. Blot with a tissue to remove any excess.

Floral accents are bigger than ever for 2009's summer brides. From delicate petal embroidery to big, sculptural botanicals this year's most sophisticated bridal looks bloom with flower power.

 

Perfect posies

A sleek A-line wedding gown will burst with beauty once you add floral embroidery details to the bodice or neckline. Remember, keep these interesting embellishments simple and delicate for an unforgettable walk down the aisle.

 

Big bouquet

Corsage accents or draped floral swag that falls from the waist gives the classic strapless wedding gown a fresh focal point. For brides looking for even more fashion-forward drama go for this season's big, bold, sculptural tiers of fabric petals and leaves that cascade from the waist to the floor.

 

Floral fix

This season's botanically-themed bridal accessories offer a more subtle way to show your flower power. Add a hint of drama with delicate floral-shaped drop earrings or a funky floral cuff. Carry a satin clutch embellished with pretty tulle flowers. Or walk the aisle on your big day dressed in sexy slingbacks adorned with gorgeous rosettes.

 

 

From brides to bridesmaids choosing the right dress begins with understanding your figure. Remember, what looks great on some celebrity may turn out to be less flattering on you. But don't be discouraged. Knowing your strong points is the key to great wedding day style.

 

Hourglass 101

Shapely women can be a sight to behold walking down the aisle, especially if they follow these simple rules:

-Go light on the cleavage: If you do opt for a classic strapless gown make sure you wear a good support bra for a nice, lifted look.

-Hot halter: Curvier women with a larger bust will love this neckline. A plunging halter does wonders to elongate the neck and lift the bustline.

-Ban belts: Remember, long and lean is the key. Belts may be hot this season but they cut curvier women in half.

 

Small wonders

Petite woman may crave a dress that's full of high-drama. But beware of gowns that are too elaborate.  Instead:

-Opt for a trumpet style that hugs the body then flares out towards the floor. The look is dramatic without being overpowering.

-Go strapless or choose a plunging V-neck style. These styles show more skin near your face and put the focus on you, not the dress.

 

Plush and pretty

Wedding day bliss might seem harder to achieve if you're struggling to lose a few pounds. Don't worry. Brides and bridesmaids can look stunning with these simple slights of hand:

-Opt for flowing fabrics like silk chiffon or charmeuse that graze the body without being too clingy.

-Make the Empire-styled wedding dress your new best friend. With its high waist that hits just below the bustline Empire cuts fall beautifully in soft folds to the floor. Think "Sense and Sensibility" for the 21^st century and say hello to an Empire worth knowing.

 

 

Eco-friendly Bridesmaid Dresses
Choosing dresses made from sustainable fabrics isn't the only green option for bridesmaid dresses. One of the most eco-friendly options is to choose dresses that your bridesmaids can wear again after the wedding is over. Even if you choose a dress handmade from eco-fabrics, a one-time use dress is just not as eco-friendly if it will never be worn again. Opt for classic colors and styles and involve your bridesmaids in the decision process so you will choose dresses that are sure to be worn again. You may also want to look into pre-owned dresses. There are great resources online and you can even check with your local dress shop to see if there are any never-been-worn dresses that were returned due to wedding mishaps. And of course, bridesmaid dresses made from organic or sustainable fabrics are always green choices when buying new - and if they are simple and classic in style and can be easily re-worn, that's even better. View eco bridesmaid dress inspiration

Eco-Friendly Bridesmaid Jewelry
When choosing jewelry for your bridesmaids, think timeless. Opt for items such as crystal or pearl stud earrings or a simple silver or gold chain. Have your bridesmaids check their jewelry boxes, they may even have such items already or they may be able to borrow them from someone. If you decide to go with something new, look for handmade jewelry and support fair trade or local artists. There are even a growing number of designers that offer jewelry made from recycled metals and conflict-free gemstones. View eco bridesmaid jewelry inspiration

Eco-Friendly Wedding Flowers
Flower bunches in bright pinks, yellows and oranges are a great way to add some color and drama to your bridal party. Look for florists that offer local, organic or sustainably grown flowers certified by a reputable organization such as VeriFlora, Florverde, Rainforest Alliance, USDA or Fair Trade Certified. Find sustainable wedding florists

PRESS RELEASE - The Association of Wedding Gown Specialists, an international organization of drycleaners who specialize in gown cleaning, restoration, and preservation, has partnered with Carbonfund.org to offer brides the option of carbon-neutral gown cleaning and preservation. "More brides than ever are concerned about their carbon footprints," Kermit Engh, Association president, said, "and brides now can ensure the beauty of their wedding gowns and help safeguard the planet's future, too."

"Carbonfund.org, the leading nonprofit carbon offset and climate solutions organization, has calculated the carbon dioxide emissions generated by cleaning and preserving wedding gowns," said Engh, "and brides can make a donation through members of the Association to offset them. We asked Carbonfund.org to estimate everything from the bride's trip to and from the cleaner to the cleaning procedures to the wedding chest's manufacture. Then we increased the total still more to be certain the bride's donation will account for the carbon footprint no matter what solvent our Association member uses or how far the bride has to travel. The donation included in the price of our ZeroCarbonTM wedding gown preservations assures the bride her preservation will be truly carbon-neutral, and 100 percent of her donation goes to Carbonfund.org." (ZeroCarbonTM is a trademark of Carbonfund.org.)

Eric Carlson, Carbonfund.org president, said, "We are excited to work with the Association of Wedding Gown Specialists to spread the message that global warming affects all of us, and we can all be part of the solution by reducing and offsetting our carbon footprint. The ZeroCarbonTM wedding gown preservations are an important and innovative way for any bride to protect her gown while helping the environment and supporting the highest quality carbon reduction projects in the world."

Donations to Carbonfund.org support global renewable energy, energy efficiency, and reforestation projects that reduce carbon dioxide emissions. All Carbonfund.org projects are independently verified to the highest certification standards. The nonprofit organization provides individual and business offsetting options. Brides who are interested in calculating the entire wedding's carbon footprint can find a carbon calculator at www.carbonfund.org/weddings or at WeddingWire.com, a wedding planning website that has integrated Carbonfund.org's carbon calculator.

Members of the Association, a not-for-profit trade group with members in the United States, Canada, Australia, and South America also work to reduce carbon emissions by recycling, conserving energy, and, in general, setting standards to protect the environment. Brides can find the nearest specialist at the Association's website www.WeddingGownSpecialists.com. Each member honors the preservation guarantee of every other member, which includes taking the gown out of the container and pressing it at no charge when the gown is to be worn again. More than 70 specialty gown designers and manufacturers recommend the Association's preservations, which are also Endorsed by the Association of Bridal Consultants, the organization dedicated to wedding professionals worldwide.