Pacific Coast Weddings | Venues | Vendors

Fern & Moon styled shoot

3/18/19 07:00 AM

A note from Fern & Moon: Inspired by couples creating new traditions, this shoot celebrates the unconventional bride. The location, in the desert of Eastern Washington, has particular significance for the designers of Fern & Moon. Three years ago our original unconventional bride Karen Merrifield (Co-founder of Fern & Moon) got married here! Her wedding, and her decision to let go of certain trends and conventions, sparked the idea for Fern & Moon. It only seemed right to return to the desert to shoot another unconventional couple, Mimi and Tanner. With My Garden Overfloweth (Paterson, WA) providing a stunning bouquet, and Anna Miller styling modern hair and …

Five tips for fabulous wedding make up

Aly Siemion | 3/7/19 01:57 PM

It’s time to start envisioning your wedding look. Whether it is a smoky eye or a natural dewy look or a red lip, here are some tips for making sure your wedding make up is better than you ever dreamed it would be. This is a guide to finding the right products, prepping your skin and refining your look. 1. Know your skin. Some products are going to glide onto your skin and sit there like they were made for you. Some products will clump, separate or just look bad, not because they’re bad products, but because they may not be compatible with your skin. My first recommendation? Samples. You want to be trying products before you invest, so you know how they work with your skin. …

It’s time to start envisioning your wedding look. Whether it is a smoky eye or a natural dewy look or a red lip, here are some tips for making sure your wedding make up is better than you ever dreamed it would be. This is a guide to finding the right products, prepping your skin and refining your look.

1. Know your skin. Some products are going to glide onto your skin and sit there like they were made for you. Some products will clump, separate or just look bad, not because they’re bad products, but because they may not be compatible with your skin. My first recommendation? Samples. You want to be trying products before you invest, so you know how they work with your skin. It’s easy to read reviews and find a dream product and drop a large part of your make up budget on it, but what if you get the product and it doesn’t work with your skin? Try products from every price range, because some less expensive products can really impress. If it works with your skin and brings you closer to that newlywed glow, then it doesn’t matter what the brand is or where you bought it.

2. Treat your skin. Listen, compatible make up can only go so far if you’re not taking care of your skin. Look at our previous post, 4 Ways to get your skin glowing for your big day, for some skincare guidelines. To recap that post: wash your face consistently, get a quality moisturizer that is compatible with your skin type and mask, mask, mask. Great skin is attainable, but it takes consistent effort. If you can create a skincare regimen for yourself and stick to it, you will most likely need less make up on your big day and the make up you do wear will sit better on your skin.

3. Try things. You never know until you try. Recently, I discovered the world of exfoliating moisturizers. My skin has never been softer, but it wouldn’t be if I hadn’t tried something that sounded a little off-the-wall. Always read reviews and the product description to make sure the product will be compatible with your skin type. For example, if you have skin that airs on the oily side, make sure you’re avoiding heavy moisturizers and stick to more intense cleansers. If you have dryer skin, avoid heavy duty cleansers in favor of light cleansers and heavier moisturizers. Get samples and order minis so that you can try a little of everything. Figure out what works best for you specifically; don’t gamble on what works best for everybody else.

4. Research and experiment. Find make up looks that you like and watch tutorials on those looks. Find make up artists and beauty bloggers you trust and let them teach you their technique. Find artists with similar skin types to yours and you’ll be able to glean some recommendations for products to try as well. Try different looks with different products you like, but keep an open mind. Maybe that one highlight wasn’t great on its own, but looks really good when layered with another highlight.

5. Test runs. Try out different looks. You might have an idea of what you want your make up to look like, but you want to try a few variations to really hone in on what you want. Take pictures with good lighting of each variation and write down what you did differently and what products you used with each look. This way, you can compare the variations side by side and decide what makes you look as fierce as possible.

Even if you are hiring a make up artist, it doesn’t hurt to be able to tell them what products you like and specifically what look you want. A make up artist may be able to take the looks you created and bring them to the next level. A make up artist can only work with the skin you bring to the table, though, so make sure you are taking care of your skin and pampering your skin in the months leading up to the big day. It doesn’t matter if you are doing your make up yourself or hiring a professional. You want your skin to be at its very best, so the most important part of wedding make up is to be consistent with your skincare.

Real Wedding! Diana and Preston

3/3/19 04:21 PM

From the photographer: Diana and Preston's wedding at the Carnation Tree Farm is one of my all time favorites. It's difficult to put into words how touching it was. Between Diana's first look with her father and brother, the couple's tea ceremony and toasts of remembrance at the reception, I was sniffling and shooting through blurry eyes more than once. The most precious moment of all was Diana and Preston's first look. Preston was so eager to marry his best friend, that his excitement was contagious. He had the best reaction to seeing Diana, and you can't help but smile with him! Photography: M. Laine Photography Florals: Monroe Floral

What is your something blue?

Aly Siemion | 2/26/19 05:19 PM

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. We all know this old rhyme, but is there a fresher take than a blue garter or blue earrings? Brides today are looking for new ideas on how to incorporate traditions like this into their wedding. Here are some creative ideas for your something blue. In the past, wearing your something blue has been traditional. I’ve heard tell of light blue lingerie, blue garters and, of course, blue jewelry. However, there has been a big resurgence of embroidery in pop culture, and that has started to trickle back into our wedding trends. Use blue thread to embroider the date of your wedding on a handkerchief and keep it with you …

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. We all know this old rhyme, but is there a fresher take than a blue garter or blue earrings? Brides today are looking for new ideas on how to incorporate traditions like this into their wedding. Here are some creative ideas for your something blue. In the past, wearing your something blue has been traditional. I’ve heard tell of light blue lingerie, blue garters and, of course, blue jewelry. However, there has been a big resurgence of embroidery in pop culture, and that has started to trickle back into our wedding trends. Use blue thread to embroider the date of your wedding on a handkerchief and keep it with you throughout your day, tucked away somewhere. Embroider a ribbon with a well wish for your marriage and tie it onto your bouquet. Embroidered veils are also a trend we saw a lot of in 2018. Not a crafter? Maybe Mom wants to contribute this lasting trinket. Maybe Grandma can even teach her how to do it. Alternately, have someone professionally embroider your veil or the hem of your dress with blue details or the date. Something blues are popping up in the details this year. Do you want to add a little sparkle to your look? This only works if you plan on wearing heels but consider bedazzling the bottom of your shoes with the date or “I do.” It’s a subtle little detail that adds a little pizzazz to your look. Blue shoes are also very big, adding a fun pop of color to your wedding look. A fun realization in the wedding world is that your something blue doesn’t have to be something you wear. Something blue could be your bridesmaids’ dresses, or an accent in your table setting or flower arrangements. Blue napkins, or blue hydrangeas on the table will be a beautiful accent to your wedding décor. Add blue accents to your cake or serve a blue cocktail as your signature wedding drink. Consider adding blue accents to your party favors. Instead of giving guests rice to throw, which is not good for local birds, give them dried flower petals from your favorite blue flowers, or give them blue bubbles to blow. If you’re a bride with a lot of nervous energy to use up before the wedding, or you have a lot of hands on deck to help, try folding miniature paper airplanes out of blue paper for your guests to throw. Then send the kids to collect them. Get your guests involved in the tradition. Blue place cards for guests with space on the back to write a well wish or a piece of advice for the happy couple that will be collected at the end of the evening is another idea. This is a nice blue twist on a guest book and will provide timeless keepsakes from your special day. Your something blue can be fun and show off your personality and it can turn into a sentimental keepsake if you choose carefully. Chose something blue that means something to you.

Scottish Wedding! Sarah and John

2/25/19 04:44 PM

From the photographer: This wedding was fantastic. It was Scottish inspired, as the bride and her family are Scottish. It was very eclectic, but in an elegant, creative and beautiful way. There were so many details. It was a small untraditional wedding; they had Pendleton Wool Blankets that were embroidered on the back of the chairs, which every guest got to take home, the bride's cloak was also made of Pendleton wool, as well as the grooms vest. It was in a lodge located in Leavenworth, Washington; a German inspired town that looks like you are in the Bavarian Swiss alps next to in orchard in the fall. Photos by Danielle Louise Photography Styling and florals: J9bing

6 alternatives to traditional floral arrangements

Aly Siemion | 1/17/19 12:00 AM

You want to wow with your bouquet, so why not choose something other than roses or lilies? Floral alternatives are on the rise. The following are alternatives to traditional floral bouquets, but any of these options could be used with traditional flowers as well. Add something unique and special to your wedding theme with a creative approach to your choice of flowers. Succulents Yes, it is finally time for millennials to start getting married, and they bring with them the trend of succulents. A succulent bouquet is a modern trend that will surprise your guests and won’t wilt like a traditional floral arrangement. Color-wise, a succulent bouquet is usually very …

You want to wow with your bouquet, so why not choose something other than roses or lilies? Floral alternatives are on the rise. The following are alternatives to traditional floral bouquets, but any of these options could be used with traditional flowers as well. Add something unique and special to your wedding theme with a creative approach to your choice of flowers.

Succulents

Yes, it is finally time for millennials to start getting married, and they bring with them the trend of succulents. A succulent bouquet is a modern trend that will surprise your guests and won’t wilt like a traditional floral arrangement. Color-wise, a succulent bouquet is usually very green, and is a great option if it complements your general color palette. Succulent bouquets are beautiful, sleek and modern. Succulents are a low maintenance centerpiece for the reception, require little water and won’t stop looking fresh throughout the day. This idea will leave you with a home full of plants after the fact, or you can let guests bring home the arrangements as wedding favors.

Herbs and wheat

For a different look, try non-floral naturals. Herbs can create a very different and natural looking bouquet. These bouquets call to mind a farmhouse wedding in the country. Another option in the same vein is wheat. These bouquets look rustic and natural, as well as being very neutral in color. A bouquet of herbs and/or wheat is an non-traditional approach that will also give your wedding a taste of nature. Using herbs and wheat gives your wedding a more sustainable feel, and will really add something special to the right venue. Use herbs and wheat to take your outdoor wedding or rustic barn wedding to the next level.

Fruit

There are many ways to incorporate fruit into your bouquet. A subtle option would be berries or grapes while a less subtle choice would be lemons, oranges or pomegranates. Citrus may look best in a bouquet cut open, while a pomegranate must remain whole to protect the dress from red stains. Figs are a beautiful fruit, especially when cut open as an accent in a floral bouquet and pair well with white flowers and blackberries, or other purple colored fruits or vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are increasingly being seen on wedding tables. We aren’t talking about those huge and colorful pineapple and strawberry bouquets, we are talking bouquets and centerpieces that look like they came straight out of a cornucopia. Rustic fruit is on the rise.

Cotton

Cotton looks beautiful in a bouquet, and is far more original than baby’s breath as a white accent. This is a unique look that will give your bouquet an ethereal vibe. This is also a lovely and simple centerpiece option and general décor choice. Cotton stems look lovely in mason jars, but also in empty wine bottles. Add twine or burlap for a rustic look, or use glass and silver toned plants like lamb’s ear, dusty miller or lavender to create a more delicate aesthetic.

Books and paper flowers

This might sound a little out there, but how many literature loving brides would love to walk down the aisle accompanied by their favorite and most beautifully bound books? What book would you carry with you down the aisle? These book bouquets can take many forms. Handmade paper flowers made out of book pages are one option, but others include looping a ribbon through a single book and carrying it like a purse, with flower accents attached, or tying a few books of descending size into a stack with accents of ribbon and plants. Have each bridesmaid carry a styled book of beautiful binding that is important to you as the bride, or have everyone carry paper flowers. Old books make an interesting centerpiece, and it will make your wedding stand out. Stack books under compact or simple flower arrangements to give them some height. Old books add to a vintage aesthetic. Another option for centerpiece books is folded books, which are an artful way to imply you are opening your life to a new chapter. This theme of literature and words can really carry your wedding and opens many doors for general decorations, invitations and even wedding favors.

Feathers

Feathers are a nice accent that can be added into a floral bouquet or combined with other non-floral alternatives. Different types of feathers will add to your aesthetic in different ways. Long, dark feathers will add drama and intensity, while small light colored feathers will lighten a bouquet’s aesthetic and add a delicacy to the look. Consider your venue when you consider feathers. Feathers may add to the rustic outdoors feeling of your wedding, or could add some vintage elegance depending on how you tackle your feathery bouquet.

Many of these options can stand alone as a bouquet, but feel free to mix and match as well. Fruit would look lovely with herbs and succulents, just as a succulent decorating a book would be a lovely surprise bouquet alternative. Using these options as accents in floral bouquets and centerpieces is also a possibility.
Incorporating many of these alternatives will take skills and tricks like using hidden wires to secure fruits into a bouquet form, so it might be best to hire an experienced florist when trying for more complex mediums. If you plan on doing some or all of your arrangements yourself, make sure you are researching the execution, consulting a florist at the very least and leaving yourself plenty of time to practice.
Ask your florist what alternative mediums they are comfortable with and go from there. Botanikal in Bellingham provided us with our featured photos of alternative floral arrangements. Find other Pacific Northwest florists here.

Arrangements by Botanikal in Bellingham

Celebrity wedding highlights 2018

12/26/18 12:00 AM

K Hulett Weddings – KPHstudio.com As 2018 draws to a close, we thought it best to summarize for you those instances of fabulous celebrity weddings. These are the celebrity wedding highlights from 2018. Many more celebrities tied the knot, wore designer dresses and went the extra mile to make a beautiful day as well, but these were standouts we thought were worth mentioning. Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra were married on December 1. The week-long celebration began on November 26 in Mumbai according to Vogue. Many Indian traditions were reflected in the events and attire. Priyanka Chopra sported a 75-foot long veil on the actual wedding day. She surely chose a veil that upstaged the …

K Hulett Weddings – KPHstudio.com

As 2018 draws to a close, we thought it best to summarize for you those instances of fabulous celebrity weddings. These are the celebrity wedding highlights from 2018. Many more celebrities tied the knot, wore designer dresses and went the extra mile to make a beautiful day as well, but these were standouts we thought were worth mentioning.

Nick Jonas and Priyanka Chopra were married on December 1. The week-long celebration began on November 26 in Mumbai according to Vogue. Many Indian traditions were reflected in the events and attire. Priyanka Chopra sported a 75-foot long veil on the actual wedding day. She surely chose a veil that upstaged the royal veils and trains of earlier this year (see Trains, tiaras and diamonds, oh my! post). According to People Magazine, Chopra’s Ralf Lauren dress was embroidered with 8 words and phrases including Jonas’s full name. In turn, People Magazine also reported that Jonas carried inside his lapel a piece of lace from Chopra’s dress embroidered with the Urdu phrase for “My life.” Chopra changed into an alternate beaded Ralf Lauren gown for the reception, playing into the two dress trend we have seen this year. Though there was some talk of the wedding being overly sponsored, that controversy seems to have blown over rather quickly. This couple had a second traditional Hindu wedding as well. When reviewing photos of the events of the wedding week, the take away is that the bride and groom just couldn’t stop smiling. Despite allegations that the romance was whirl-wind and too short, their smiles seem to leave that a moot point.

Gwyneth Paltrow and Brad Falchuk were married on September 29. The bride started off the ceremony in a Valentino couture gown with a sheer veil and then changed into a Stella McCartney romper for the reception according to Harper’s Bazaar. Tom Ford can be credited with the dapperness of the groom and groomsmen, as Town and Country reported. Paltrow’s daughters were clad in Monique Lhuillier gowns. Town and Country stated that after the wedding the flowers were donated to Repeat Roses, which gives donated flowers to hospitals and medical centers. Today reported that there were about 70 guests at the actual affair and dinner was catered by Mario Carbone. Paltrow and Falchuk’s first date took place in one of Carbone’s restaurants, so he was more than just a delectable choice, he was also the sentimental choice. The wedding was, on a celebrity scale, intimate, but beautiful and magical in its Hamptons setting.

Queen Harrison and Will Claye tied the knot this year in true Olympian fashion. Harrison wore a Vera Wang lace gown with sheer sleeves and a Vera Wang veil according to People Magazine. Also as stated by people, the wedding took place at Montaña Cielo, an estate in the hills of eastern San Diego. According to Inside Weddings, the couple had their engagement photo session in a gym, which seemed entirely fitting for the silver medalist, and Harrison, who fell slightly short of the Olympic team this last go-around. Inside Weddings also stated that Claye, upon winning silver in Rio, jumped into the stands and proposed to Harrison right then and there. An overall athletic affair, the wedding was officiated by Randall Cunningham, former NFL quarterback according to Team USA. His daughter competed in the high jump in Rio and took home 13th place.

In hush hush wedding news, Ellen Page and Emma Portner tied the knot at the very beginning of 2018. They announced with a photo of their hands with simple matching bands. The wedding was incredibly secretive, and few details are known, but what is clear from their public interactions is that these two women are very happy together.

Amy Schumer and Chris Fischer wed in February in an intimate ceremony in Malibu. According to Brides, John Early officiated the ceremony in drag. He was among several A-list guests. Schumer wore a Monique Lhuillier Severine Chantilly Lace and Tulle Gown according the The Shmooze, which also reported that Schumer walked down the aisle to Rainbow Connection. It was a comedian’s wedding down to the details. Breaking traditions, The Schmooze stated that Schumer texted guests inviting them just days before the event.

Rose Leslie and Kit Harington married on June 23 of this year, and the affair was more than worthy of the Game of Thrones stars. Leslie wore a stunning dress complete with train and full length veil. According to Standard, the lace dress was designed by Elie Saab. The detailing of the veil looks like there are a cascade of white flowers falling down her back. Her outfit, of course, would not have been complete without the flower crown, which she wore with her hair down. According to Harper’s Bazaar, the couple announced their engagement in a small notice in the newspaper. Naturally, many of the couple’s Game of Thrones costars were in attendance, all looking absolutely smashing and overjoyed for the Leslie and Harington.

Bee Shaffer married Francesco Carrozzini in Italy for the second time this year. Shaffer is the daughter of Anna Wintour, longtime editor-in-chief of American Vogue, while Carrozzini is the son of the late Vogue Italia Editor-in-chief Franca Sozzani. The couple met through their mothers according to The Kit. The couple had two weddings, and the first, nobody knows anything about because the couple banned social media and guest photography. The second was in Italy, and according to The Kit, it took place in the town Carrozzini’s mother is buried in. The Cut stated that after the ceremony Carrozzini visited the cemetery where his mother is buried. The dress was fashion forward, exactly what one would expect of the daughter of Wintour. According to Hello Magazine, it was a V neck lace dress with a midi length skirt. The dress was paired with a lace veil and strappy gold shoes. Dolce & Gabbana designed the dress according to Harper’s Bazaar. The groom wore a blue double breasted suit, according The Cut. Both looked stunning on their special day, and more than fulfilled our expectations as the children of fashion icons.

In terms of celebrity weddings this year was one to be remembered. Both lavish and intimate affairs graced our gossip columns, as well as secret weddings we didn’t hear about until after the fact. Destination weddings were very popular, as were full length veils and trains. Long sleeves made many appearances as well, and many brides opted for two dresses in place of one. If nothing else, these weddings show us that your wedding should match who you are. It has truly been quite a year, and this is just a sampling of the fabulous celebrity weddings that

Trains, tiaras and diamonds, oh my!

Aly Siemion | 12/20/18 12:00 AM

2018 royal weddings in review Matt Priestman Photography This year was big in terms of royal weddings. Five royal weddings graced headlines this year, each with its own style, with new trends emerging as a result. These brides were stylish, royal and both traditional and surprising. Titles aside, these were lavish affairs with the best dressed brides, grooms and guests who, of course, were wearing the very best, most interesting hats in the tradition of royal weddings. Alessandra de Osma and Prince Christian of Hanover got married in Lima, on March 16. This couple had a two weddings, having a civil ceremony in London months before the Peruvian church wedding …

2018 royal weddings in review

Matt Priestman Photography

This year was big in terms of royal weddings. Five royal weddings graced headlines this year, each with its own style, with new trends emerging as a result. These brides were stylish, royal and both traditional and surprising. Titles aside, these were lavish affairs with the best dressed brides, grooms and guests who, of course, were wearing the very best, most interesting hats in the tradition of royal weddings.

Alessandra de Osma and Prince Christian of Hanover got married in Lima, on March 16. This couple had a two weddings, having a civil ceremony in London months before the Peruvian church wedding of March 16, according to Harper’s Bazar. Jorge Vázquez designed the lace gown, which featured a high neck and long sleeves. De Osma’s veil matched the length of her train, which was long, and needed to be carried by her half-sister in law, who wore a black and pink mini-dress also according to Harper’s Bazar. Alessandra de Osma wore the gorgeous and famous Hanover Floral Tiara, which has been worn in several other Hanoverian weddings according to Town and Country Magazine. The groom wore a dapper 3-piece suit according to Hello Magazine.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry wed on May 19 at Winsor Castle. The Duchess of Sussex wore a dress with an epic train and veil much in the tradition of royal weddings this year. According to People, the Duchess of Sussex wore for a tiara the Queen Mary Diamond Bandeau, made in 1932, but the detachable broach at the center of the tiara dates back to the late 1800s and belonged to Queen Mary before the tiara was passed down to Queen Elizabeth. At the ceremony, a simple welsh gold band was slipped onto Meghan Markle’s newly royal finger, as is tradition according to Town and Country Magazine. The engagement ring was a different story. Town and Country Magazine reported that Prince Harry designed the custom ring himself, and sourced the main stone from Botswana, and the two other stones came from Princess Diana’s jewelry collection. Each part of the ring seems to hold significance for the couple.

Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank wed at Winsor Castle on October 12. Princess Eugenie wore an open backed dress famously showcasing her scars from her battle with scoliosis. She did not wear a veil with the intention of not covering up her scars. However, this break with tradition was perhaps rectified by her wearing of the Greville Emerald Kokoshnik tiara, which served as a gorgeous and colorful addition to her wedding outfit. Queen Elizabeth II loaned her granddaughter this diamond and emerald beauty for the wedding says Today. Today also stated that this tiara is rarely worn publically by royals, so the choice surprised many. Most unique tiara of the year? Hands down Princess Eugenie.

Princess Ayako and Kei Moriya wed on October 29 at the Meiji Shrine in Tokyo. The Japanese princess officially lost her royal status that very day, as she chose to wed a commoner according to Japan Times. She wore traditional court attire, which is traditionally very colorful. Princess Ayako’s hair was done up in an ancient style for noblewomen. It seems that the affair was very traditional, and Japan Times reported on many well wishes for joy and a happy household.

Duchess Sophie of Württemberg and Count Maximilien of Andigné wed at the Castle of Tegernsee on December 13. This couple was another who had a civil ceremony some months before the wedding, opting for a later, more lavish public affair according to Daily Mail. Duchess Sophie’s train and veil were also quite long, and her dress featured a boat neck and three quarter length sleeves. Duchess Sophie wore in the way of family heirlooms a beautiful diamond tiara, and an impressively intricate lace veil according to Brides.com.

The royal weddings this year were all affairs to remember. From the outfits to the settings, these weddings have set trends that we will see long into the New Year. Long trains, full length veils and colored stone accents have taken their place among 2018 wedding trends, but will surely carry over and continue effecting trends for a long time to come. Even royal brides are beginning to break with tradition in favor of personal style, and that should inspire us all.

Let's talk dress

Aly Siemion | 12/14/18 12:00 AM

MMR Design and Photography When it comes to wedding dresses, the possibilities are nearly endless. You can customize your wedding look by going traditional or trendy or by following the beat of your own drum. Let’s talk about fun possibilities and ways to mix it up for your special day. To wear white or to go bold? Wearing white is one of the most popularly upheld traditions. Of course, many brides dream of white weddings and looking like Kate Middleton or Kate Upton. If white is your dream, then let it be white, but if you’re not attached to the snowy organza and milky white tulle, then your options are open. There …

MMR Design and Photography

When it comes to wedding dresses, the possibilities are nearly endless. You can customize your wedding look by going traditional or trendy or by following the beat of your own drum. Let’s talk about fun possibilities and ways to mix it up for your special day.

To wear white or to go bold?

Wearing white is one of the most popularly upheld traditions. Of course, many brides dream of white weddings and looking like Kate Middleton or Kate Upton. If white is your dream, then let it be white, but if you’re not attached to the snowy organza and milky white tulle, then your options are open.
There are some famous weddings that have broken this tradition over the years. Elizabeth Taylor, for example, did not wear white to several of her weddings. She wore emerald green in the ’50s, yellow in the ’60s, and a rainbow gown in the ’70s. More recently, jewelry designer Caitlin Mociun wore colorful stripes to her wedding in Puglia in September this year. In short, the whole palette is yours to consider when it comes to color.
There are also happy mediums between rainbow and white. Portia De Rossi famously fudged the white rule with a pale pink gown in 2008, and Gwen Stefani wore an ombré white to pink gown in 2002. Put your own spin on this tradition.

One dress or two?

Recently, Gwyneth Paltrow wore a stunning Valentino gown to her ceremony and then changed into a Stella McCartney romper for her reception. This is an old tradition that is coming back for convenience and style. Many wedding dresses, though beautiful, are cumbersome to move around in, cut cake in and dance in. Why not change into something lightweight and shorter such as a jumpsuit or romper? Obviously, one dress is less expensive than two, which is a definite con of the trend. However, your second outfit can be simple and much more casual. Try stunning your guests for the second time with a minimalist look that doesn’t break the bank. Let the ceremony gown be the main event or split your budget between the two outfits. This is also a good way to show a variety of looks. You could even change from dress to suit and really mix it up. Your two outfits wouldn’t have to be the same color either, so you could marry in a white gown and celebrate in colors and patterns.

Train or no train?

Dramatic trains are in this year, throwing back to Princess Di’s train to end all trains. Ringing in at 25 feet long, Princess Diana was a complete showstopper in her day. Although the puffy sleeves she was sporting have remained back in the ’80s where they belong, her epic train has come back into style. Meghan Markle wowed the world this year with a beautiful billowing train and a veil that clocked in at over 16 feet long.
Detachable trains are a convenient option that will help your dress to be more practical during the reception. Another option is a train that pins up in the back for the reception. Drama in the dress is great for the ceremony, but make sure you will be able to enjoy your reception without worrying about being stepped on.

Why have a veil?

Despite a history rooted in superstition (In ancient Rome, brides wore veils to ward off evil spirits), the veil itself has remained an elegant addition to the bridal outfit. A long veil can frame the entire look, while a short veil can be made to complement the bride’s hairstyle and frame her face. Veils are also a great opportunity to add some details into your look via embroidery and detailing around the edges. Though it may feel outdated to cover your face as you walk down the aisle, there are many ways to wear a veil. The trick is finding the right styling for you. Recently, Priyanka Chopra walked down the aisle to meet Nick Jonas for their nuptials sporting a 75-foot veil. While we certainly all don’t need a veil that requires a team of people to carry it safely down the aisle, a veil remains a simple, elegant and traditional touch.

Whichever way you choose to style your wedding look, you will stun the crowd with beauty and grace. The possibilities are plentiful and can be overwhelming, but stay true to yourself and your style and you can’t go wrong. Happy styling!

Let us know what your dress looks like with the contact form below!

Real wedding! 20's themed pizzazz and jazz wedding

11/30/18 12:00 AM

Farage Photography Farage Photography Farage Photography

DIY bridesmaid proposal kit

Aly Siemion | 11/21/18 12:00 AM

The Kit 1. Include things that imply celebration. Mini Champagne! Champagne is a good option, but mini wines or a wine bottle with a personalized label with their name on it, the wedding date or a fun rhyme about bridesmaids will add a fun touch. A monogrammed wine glass is a nice addition to this idea. Be sensitive to your bridesmaids with this; if one of your bridesmaids doesn’t drink, include a fun artisanal soda or a kombucha. 2. Pamper your bridesmaids. Include a bath bomb in the scent of their favorite flower or bubble bath so that she has a fun way to de-stress. 3. Glitter or confetti is an aesthetic choice to consider. Glitter, yes, will get everywhere, but if you …

The Kit

1. Include things that imply celebration. Mini Champagne! Champagne is a good option, but mini wines or a wine bottle with a personalized label with their name on it, the wedding date or a fun rhyme about bridesmaids will add a fun touch. A monogrammed wine glass is a nice addition to this idea. Be sensitive to your bridesmaids with this; if one of your bridesmaids doesn’t drink, include a fun artisanal soda or a kombucha.
2. Pamper your bridesmaids. Include a bath bomb in the scent of their favorite flower or bubble bath so that she has a fun way to de-stress.
3. Glitter or confetti is an aesthetic choice to consider. Glitter, yes, will get everywhere, but if you think your bridesmaids will appreciate a good glittering, go for it. Another option is confetti poppers, which are less eternally messy yet still fun.
4. Personalized cards are a very nice touch. Try making the cards yourself, or at the very least write a personal note in each card. Add a photo of you and your bridesmaid with a nice sentiment on the back. This is a nice touch that shows each bridesmaid that you are thinking of her specifically.
5. A cute planner. They need somewhere to write down the wedding date, after all. This is also a nice nod to the responsibility they will be taking on as a bridesmaid.
6. There is a lot of potential wordplay when it comes to hair ties, so include some fun hair ties with a rhyme or joke about tying the knot.
7. Something useful is a nice touch. A nice monogrammed water bottle or travel mug is a gift that keeps on giving.
8. Soaps, candles, and other scent-based items are a nice opportunity to personalize each kit. What scents do each of your bridesmaids love?
9. Time together is much more valuable to your bridesmaids than an expensive bauble. Show your bridesmaids that girl time is still going to be a priority with vouchers for a spa day together, or an invitation to a special bridesmaid’s brunch. This doesn’t have to break the bank either, you could make brunch at your house and serve mimosas to give it a more personalized touch.

Tips

When it comes to bridesmaids, monogramming is in. Put their names on whatever you can. Their name is going to mean more than the word bridesmaid, so save the bridesmaid sashes for the bachelorette party or the bridal shower.

You can always personalize, and have slightly different kits for different bridesmaids. Try coordinating kits in each bridesmaid’s favorite color.

Make the maid of honor’s kit a little bigger than the others. She will be taking on extra responsibilities after all. She deserves something extra.

Make sure you package the kit so that nothing breaks, but also consider how it looks. Make sure it’s cute. Boxes are popular, because everything can be laid out and set in place, but nice reusable totes are a good alternative. Baskets are also a possibility if your gifts are a little bulkier.

If a kit isn’t your style, perhaps, just give a simple bracelet or earrings with a nice note.

First dances that say something

Aly Siemion | 11/9/18 12:00 AM

Photo by Nicole Sandoval Postma To cha-cha, or to swing? To tango or to rumba? Dare you foxtrot with your new spouse on the dance floor? What do you want your first dance to say? You’ve said your vows, now show it with your body language. Trust, grace, love, and laughter all have a place in your first dance. How do you want to start your marriage? In this day and age, there is a dance for all occasions. While you could do the dougie if you wanted, there is a way to pick a dance form that reflects how you want to start off your marriage. If you are looking for elegance and sophistication, of course, I would recommend a waltz. Waltzes are ageless dances that convey …

Photo by Nicole Sandoval Postma

To cha-cha, or to swing? To tango or to rumba? Dare you foxtrot with your new spouse on the dance floor?
What do you want your first dance to say? You’ve said your vows, now show it with your body language. Trust, grace, love, and laughter all have a place in your first dance. How do you want to start your marriage? In this day and age, there is a dance for all occasions. While you could do the dougie if you wanted, there is a way to pick a dance form that reflects how you want to start off your marriage.

If you are looking for elegance and sophistication, of course, I would recommend a waltz. Waltzes are ageless dances that convey grace and class and it says volumes about listening and working together. Waltz is the most popular wedding dance of our time, because it is a classic that says a lot of wonderful things about teamwork and truly hearing each other.

Are you a couple who prides themselves on their passion? Perhaps you should start the ball rolling with a tango. A tango is going to emphasize the raw power within your relationship, and demonstrates a confidence in yourselves that is truly unique among dances.

A swing dance (and I recommend west coast swing) is adventurous. Infuse it with some lindy hop moves to show that fun loving side of your relationship. The fun lindy hop moves also demonstrate trust and bravery. A swing or lindy hop will show that you are risk takers with a penchant for excitement.

Intimacy and deep feelings will come through clearly in a rumba. Rumbas are very sweet, but very passionate, and Latin dances like this will make you feel like you and your new spouse are the only ones in the room.

Something that is pure fun would be a Charleston. This dance form is straight out of the 1920s. The embellishing moves that can be thrown in with the basic steps will cause laughter and smiles. While the footwork seems complicated, a lesson or two would be able to break it down, and the footwork will become second nature in no time. You will be unique with this dance choice, as it is neither traditional nor very serious, but if fun and laughter are your priorities in marriage, why not show that with your dance?

Looking for something easy to learn? Try a salsa. Salsa is easy to pick up, and always looks beautiful. It’s a fun dance where, once you’ve got the basic steps down, you don’t really have to think anymore. It is a nice choice if you just want to improvise with your spouse within a loose structure. A salsa says that you think on your feet, and you like to roll with the punches.

A personal favorite of mine is the cha-cha. Cha-cha is playful and fun, but it can also be complex and full of surprises and unexpected turns. With this dance, you will be showing that you are hard workers who love learning and growing together. Cha-cha shows that you meet challenges head on, and with quick, solution-based thinking. This dance will keep you on your toes, but so can marriage.

Another thing to consider is a medley of any combination of any of these dances. Hiring a choreographer will make this easier, but make sure you tell the choreographer what you want to say with your first dance, and why you’ve chosen to include each type of dance.

In the end, it’s just a dance, but it is also the beginning of a magical new chapter in your life. Your first dance can say something about who you as a couple want to be in this marriage. Use the first dance to set an intention within yourself to be mindful in marriage, and aware of your strengths as a couple. What will your first dance say about you? What will it say to your family and friends?