Category: wedding

Lifestyle /

How to Personalize Your Wedding with Unique Details

Your wedding day is one of the most significant occasions in your life, and every detail truly matters to you. It reflects the individuality and commitment of your relationship. Many couples are moving away from cookie-cutter ceremonies and want to infuse their personalities into every aspect, from unconventional décor to innovative ceremony elements and non-traditional wedding rings. The possibilities for personalizing your wedding are endless. Below, we will look at some creative ideas for making your wedding yours. 

Photo Credit:  Edward Eyer

Discovering Your Style

The first step in personalizing your wedding is understanding what you and your partner find unique. Start by discussing your shared interests, hobbies, and values, as this will provide a foundation for the personal style you can infuse into your wedding. Perhaps you both have a passion for nature, travel, art, or a quirky shared hobby; these common interests can form a basis for planning your wedding details. Consider how your personalities can be woven into various elements of your day, from the invitations to the color palette, menu, and music.

One of the easiest ways to showcase your individuality is through custom decor. For instance, if you love traveling, you might want to decorate your tables with photo galleries or vintage suitcases from your travels. 

Unique Ceremony Elements

Your ceremony is the center stage of your celebrations, providing an opportunity to create a moment that reflects your personality and beliefs. Traditional ceremonies possess charm; however, you may want to consider adding some unique elements to make your vows even more personal.

Instead of reciting traditional vows, you might want to think about writing your own. This allows you to express your promises and share anecdotes that reveal your journey together. Personal vows are heartfelt and create an unforgettable moment for you and your partner.

There are many creative ways to symbolize your union. Some couples blend colors during ceremonies, representing different aspects of their relationship, while others plant a tree together to symbolize growth and nurturing.

Consider involving your guests in the ceremony. For example, you could have them light a candle or sign a guest book, which could later be turned into something for you to keep in your home.

One increasingly popular idea is incorporating wooden wedding rings into your ceremony. Wooden rings offer a rustic elegance that speaks to the beauty of nature, individuality, and sustainability. They are visually striking and carry a deeper meaning of growth and strength. To learn more about these unique rings, look at wooden wedding rings. 

Non-Traditional Wedding Rings

Usually, people will choose a classic metal such as gold or platinum; however, for couples who are looking for something that reflects their style and are now looking for more t non-traditional options, wooden wedding rings, for example, would give you a unique blend of nature and craftsmanship that is perfect for seeking less conventional ways of showing your sign of commitment. 

Why Choose Wooden Wedding Rings?

Sustainability: Wooden rings are often made from sustainably sourced wood, making them an eco-friendly choice.

Customization: With every wooden ring you choose, you will receive a unique piece due to the wood’s natural grain color and texture; thus, you will never find two rings that are the same. This symbolizes the uniqueness of your relationship. Many jewelers offer customization options, allowing you to select the type of wood and engrave a personal message or significant dates.

Comfort and warmth: Unlike cold metal bands, wooden rings possess an organic warmth that may be more comfortable for everyday wear. They often feature a smooth, natural finish that adapts perfectly to your skin over time.

Symbolism: Wood represents growth, resilience, and growth, all qualities of a lasting marriage. This can be reflected in the choice of a wooden wedding ring, a daily reminder of your commitment to nurturing and growing your relationship. 

Personalized Decor and Ambiance

Your wedding venue offers numerous opportunities to showcase your unique style. Think beyond standard floral arrangements and consider elements that reflect your interests. You might add personalized signs, directional arrows, or even a whimsical sign with quotes that have special meaning for you and your partner. Create centerpieces incorporating personal items such as travel photos or mementos from your relationship. Consider using small travel trinkets or vintage books that symbolize your memories. Consider incorporating these themes into your decorations if you love a particular era, hobby, or style. For instance, a rustic outdoor wedding might feature mason jars, wooden accents, or a build-up table to enhance the atmosphere. Lighting also plays a vital role in setting the mood, so consider including lanterns, fairy lights, or a dramatic light installation. 

Culinary Delights with a Personal Touch

Food is vital for your wedding day; you must choose your menu. This presents a fantastic opportunity to include personal touches that leave lasting impressions. You could work with your caterer to create a menu featuring all your favorite dishes, family recipes, or meals you have enjoyed while traveling the globe. This should delight your guests while providing a glimpse into who you are. Consider crafting a signature cocktail or mocktail that reflects your tastes. You might name the drinks after yourselves, the places you have visited, or some of your shared experiences. Additionally, consider incorporating interactive food stations where guests can customize their dishes. This could include a salad station, a gourmet popcorn machine, or a taco bar. 

Entertainment That Resonates

Entertainment is another area where you can incorporate plenty of personalization into your wedding performance music, and even the activities on your wedding day can be tailored to reflect your personality. Consider hiring musicians or performers to play some of your favorite songs. If you love a particular game, consider ways to include it by setting up fun games or activities involving your guests, such as a photo booth with props related to your hobbies or even a trivia game about your relationship. If you come from different cultural backgrounds, find creative ways to blend your traditions. This could mean incorporating unique music, cultural rituals, or dance performances celebrating both heritages, providing a diverse experience for you and your guests. 

Incorporating Technology with a Twist

More and more people are now beginning to incorporate technology into their weddings, as it provides an exciting opportunity to add a personal touch. Consider creating a personalized wedding website where guests can RSVP and view your love story and any important details about the big day. Include sections that feature fun facts, personal photos, and even a blog documenting your journey for loved ones who cannot attend your wedding in person. You could always live-stream your ceremony, as it’s a thoughtful way to include them. You might even add a personalized message or live chat during the event, allowing remote guests to feel more connected to the day. Rather than having a traditional guest book, consider setting up a digital version where people can leave photos, messages, or even video greetings from the day. 

Bringing It All Together

The beauty of a personalized wedding lies in all the fine details that make thoughtful touches and showcase who you are as a couple. This is the way to express your personality. Every little choice you make, from the rings you wear to the decor you choose, highlights your identity as a couple and tells your unique love story. Adding small personal touches goes beyond the aesthetics of your day; it reflects your passions, values, and shared vision.

Accessories /

Ready to Wed? What To Know About Buying The Ring

If you are ready to get engaged, then you should be looking for the perfect diamond engagement ring. Perhaps you’re not looking for a diamond at all, but you’d like to use another gem of a different color that will stand out for your fiance. If you’re ready to get married, then this part is going to be one of the most memorable parts of the equation because buying a ring, getting down on one knee, and asking somebody to marry you is a big deal.

Featured Photo from Brides

There is so much that you’ll need to know about buying a ring, from this diamond clarity chart explained to the four C’s of diamond quality. You’ll also need to know about metal characteristics and the setting styles of the rings. Below, we’ve put together a list of what you need to know about buying the right ring for the right person at the right time in their lives.

Image source: Pexels

  1. Understand those forces in depth. You need to know the color of the diamond, the clarity, the cut of the diamond, and the weight of the carat. The color is graded on a D to Z scale, which means that the D is completely colorless and Z means that the diamond has a brown or a light yellow color. The diamonds with less color are rarer than the others. Our diamond clarity chart will explain this to you in more detail.

  2. Get to know the cut. When you start shopping for an engagement ring, you should understand what the differences are between a diamond shape and its cutting style. The shape describes the outline of the diamond when it’s viewed face up, but most people choose a round diamond. But there are other shapes such as the marquise, the pear, or the Oval to consider.

  3. Check out the diamond under different lighting. Daylight and spotlight are very different, which means that diamonds look different under various lighting conditions. Think about when you are planning to propose and what the lighting will be on that day, and then you can determine how your diamond is going to perform under that lighting. Fluorescent lighting brings out the brightness of a diamond but incandescent light brings out that fire on the inside.

  4. Choose your metal. Of course, you know that you have the classics with gold and silver but engagement rings also come in platinum and white gold, too. Choosing the right metal is important because you really want this ring to stand out. Gold and platinum jewelry have different characteristics and their colors are going to be different as well.

  5. Pick the right setting. With jewelry, diamonds are held in place by their setting, and there are different types when it comes to an engagement ring. A diamond can be held in place with four to six prongs, which is one of the types of settings, or the bezel, which is the most protective setting.

No matter what you do, this engagement ring is going to be beautiful.

Fashion /

Bridal Style: Wedding Dress Shopping Do’s and Don’ts

A wedding is one of the most important events for any woman across the world. It’s the culmination of an important relationship after potentially many years of anticipation. You’ve probably pictured yourself walking down the aisle since you were young, and now that the day is near, you want to look your best.

Featured Photo from Martha Stewart Weddings

While you can theme the wedding however you and your partner would like, what matters more is choosing a dress that not only looks beautiful but also has quality put into it. For those who feel confused or overwhelmed by browsing through the multitude of styles and assortment of wedding dress, here are some do’s and don’ts you should follow when you’re shopping:

Do’s:

Go to Wedding Dress Specialty Shops

While you might have a small group of local dress shops in mind, this is the time to expand your horizons. Don’t try to pass off a dress that’s not specifically intended for weddings on your big day. Some local stores probably won’t have huge selection of wedding dress styles available, so it’s best to find shops that specialize in gowns made how you envision them. These specialty stores are usually found in larger cities or malls. If you want, you can also search for wedding dress stores online so you won’t have to be limited looking for the perfect wedding dress based on where you live.

Check Over Different Sizes

You’ll never know how well a dress will fit on you unless you’re trying out ones with slightly different sizes. While your clothes may fit you just fine with the size you usually use, a wedding dress may require a different size as its fitting requirements could work differently from that of regular clothing. Be sure that your wedding dress options are just as comfortable as they are attractive. Some wedding dresses could look gorgeous yet may be so uncomfortable that it’s not worth it.

Buy a Quality Dress

Everyone loves the adventure of finding a good bargain these days. Does this mean you should do the same with a wedding dress? While there are many great dresses on sale, they usually come with a drawback, whether it’s out of season, an awkward color, or the wrong fit. As hard as it could be to stomach paying a higher price for a dress, it’s best to use your full budget. You’ll generally get better quality, fresher styles, and nicer fabrics. To combat paying a higher price tag, you can use membership points or gift cards to get a better deal, though you shouldn’t always wait for a special sale to pop up when your wedding’s close.

Don’ts:

Shop at the Last Minute

Procrastination is never a good thing, especially when deadlines are near. This doesn’t always happen to brides and grooms, but searching for a wedding dress should be a high priority when the event’s date comes closer. Sure, it can be unpleasant when you have to go through different dresses to put on, especially if your progress seems to go nowhere. Still, it’s easier to devote time to searching for a dress without having to be buried under multiple errands. However long you want to spend searching for a wedding dress, don’t wait until the wedding’s super close, and don’t even think of rushing your way through the shops when there are only a few days left.

Changing Up Your Wedding Dress

They say that less is more, which can also apply to wedding dresses in some ways. It’s perfectly fine to change up the looks of a simple dress with extra decorations. Still, there are instances where the twists can go a little farther than they need to be — for example, wearing symbols that either clash with the aesthetics of a marriage or look inappropriate would be best to avoid. Additionally, make sure that your dress doesn’t have too much added onto it, especially if you want to avoid getting comparisons with the more ridiculous outfits of many celebrities. The beauty of a wedding dress is probably best left alone, so it’s best not to change it up too much when there’s nothing that looks wrong.

Rely on Hand-me-downs, Renting, or Borrowing from a Friend

Let’s get the first part of this “don’t” out of the way. A hand-me-down could only be recommended if it’s part of family heritage or as a gift that your mother would give you to continue growing your family’s legacy. Otherwise, avoid asking your mother or relatives if you can use their old, possibly unpreserved wedding dress. Renting a wedding dress may seem like a good idea, though you might have to pay more if it gets stained or suffers any rips. It’s best to buy a wedding dress to avoid worrying about any damage. You’ve already got so much on your mind. Finally, borrowing a wedding dress is another idea that sounds convincing on paper but not in its execution. Your friend’s wedding dress may not be your size, or its look may not be what you’re going for. Plus, everyone wants their own big day to have a unique style.

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Accessories /

Wedding Attire 101: What to Wear To A Wedding

Weddings are a $50 billion annual industry, with the average American couple spending more than $35,000 on their special day.

It can be easy to let that price tag intimidate you when you open your invitation. But of all the things you have to worry about — like finding a perfect gift for the newlyweds — your wedding attire doesn’t have to be one of them.

Here are the “I Do’s” and “I Don’t’s” of Wedding Attire

Before you proceed, there are a couple of rules you should keep in mind, especially if you’re a lady.

No. 1: Avoid white, off-white, or ivory. After all, you don’t want to detract attention away from the bride.

No. 2: Black is actually permissible now. Traditionally, the color used to be reserved for funerals and mourning, but Glamour Magazine reports that it’s become more socially acceptable because of how flattering and versatile it is. Some weddings are even specified as black-tie affairs now.

If you’re not sure what the dress code is, ask the bride to see one of her wedding programs to get a better idea of what to expect. It’s also helpful to note the setting and time of the wedding, that way you can stay comfortable and fashionable at the same time.

For the Ladies

There are a few guidelines to follow once you know the time and location of the wedding. For instance, avoid black and sequins if the wedding is during the day, as this will make you appear overdressed.

Additionally, remember that the wedding will be attended by guests of all ages, not just your own. This means you should probably save that low-cut, high-hemmed, revealing, or form-fitting dress for the bachelorette party — especially if the wedding is taking place in a church or other modest setting.

Moreover, you want to accessorize properly. Ditch the tote bag in favor of a clutch, cross-body, or mini bag. All you’ll need is your keys, phone, ID, credit card, and lipstick. And as for the shoes, you want them to balance the formality of your outfit, not over- or underdo it.

Lastly, if a dress just feels a bit too feminine for you, you’re allowed to wear pants. Just be sure they’re not denim; stick with a pair of elegant slacks, or find a comfortable pantsuit.

For the Gentlemen

Although wedding attire for men is significantly less diverse, it’s still possible to screw it up. However, feel free to personalize your look with a pocket square, cufflinks, or tastefully patterned tie.

Rule number one: No shorts. Ever. Not even in the summertime. Remember it’s a wedding and not a Saturday frat party before the game.

Your safest bet will be a suit and tie, but remember to stay away from black. Navy is a better alternative if you’re drawn to the darker, neutral shades. And if the dress code is “black tie,” stick with a tuxedo and black bowtie.

Before We Part…

No matter what you decide to wear, make sure your wedding attire is properly tailored for the occasion. The last thing you need is a wardrobe malfunction on the dance floor.

Keep the theme of the wedding in mind as well. Some couples like to get creative over their shared interests, so this might allow you some extra freedom with your outfit. And if all else fails, it can’t hurt to run your idea by the bride and groom for approval beforehand.

Feeling lost? Let the Kim West Styling agency give you some pointers. Visit her page at Style Life Fashion to arrange a virtual consultation.

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Bridal /

MARIA MENOUNOS WEARS PRONOVIAS FOR HER NEW YEAR’S EVE WEDDING

I am excited to share that Emmy winning host and New York Times bestselling author Maria Menounos wore a Pronovias gown for her wedding to Keven Undergaro on January 1st, 2018.
The wedding took place just after midnight in Times Square as part of Menounos’ appearance as co-host on Fox’s New Year’s Eve with Steve Harvey: Live from Times Square. 
Menounos wore the Randala gown from the Atelier Pronovias 2018 Collection; the exact style can be viewed at www.pronovias.com.

 

Maria Menounos wedding at Times Square

WHO: Maria Menounos, Emmy winning host and New York Times bestselling author

WHAT: Maria Menounos wears the Pronovias Randala gown for her wedding to Keven Undergaro on Fox’s New Year’s Eve in Times Square.

WHEN: January 1, 2018

WHERE: New York City

PHOTOCREDIT: FOX

STYLE CREDIT: Atelier Pronovias Randala Gown

LINK: www.pronovias.com

About Pronovias:

Pronovias Fashion Group continues to consolidate its position as a global leader of the bridal sector year after year. It started out as a family business in Barcelona in 1922 and is now the world’s leader in bridal gowns, present in more than 105 countries with 155 stores and more than 4,000 sales points.

Beauty /

Martha Stewart Weddings Big Day Beauty Guide

For the fifth year in a row, Martha Stewart Weddings has unveiled its Big-Day Beauty Awards, where they surveyed more than 500 recent brides to find their tried-and-true favorites for that special day.

From skin prep and hair products to cleansing products and cosmetics, Martha Stewart Wedding’s editor Amy Conway shared a few of the 42 best products that brides swear by. Below are a few of this year’s winners and here is the limited online feature

LIP COLOR WINNER: Chanel Rouge Coco ($36)
Available in 29 shades, this lipstick lasts, looks beautiful, and feels amazing. Brides say: “Gorgeous, moisturizing color in one perfect package.”

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STAY-PUT SPRAY: TRESemme TRES Two Extra Hold Hairspray
This humidity-resistant, water-free hairspray holds updos with grace and keeps down-dos in place with our compromising touchability. Consider this product an insurance policy for your hair.

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ALL OVER COVER-UP: MAC Cosmetics Pro Longwear Concealer ($21)
Offering up to 15 hours of foolproof production and available in 16 shades, this concealer is a necessity for a long day of celebrations. Brides say: “It’s one and done . . . even if you apply it in the morning, it lasts well into the night.”

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SHINING GLORY: Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector ($41)
Whether dabbed on cheekbones or mixed with foundation to fake a dewy complexion, this creamy creation is worth of a white carpet. Brides say: “Red-carpet magic in a bottle.”

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SUPER SHADOW: Urban Decay Naked Palette ($54)
With more than twice the votes of the runner-up, making for its third win in our beauty awards, this palette remains brides’ choice for eye-popping appeal. While everyone has her favorite (there are four iterations), one things is certain: you’ll get tons of mileage from each 12-shade pan.

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MAJOR MASCARA: Maybelline Volum’Express The Falsies Waterproof Mascara ($6)
This mascara is waterproof, clump-free, and dramatic – which is exactly what you need on your big day. Brides say: “Creates length and volume without much fuss. . . I’m often asked if my lashes are real because they look so dramatic, and who doesn’t love that?”

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Accessories /

PromDressOk Online Wedding and Special Occasion Dresses

Are you newly engaged or seeking a special occasion gown?  One way that we can avoid the hassle of making appointments, standing in line or sold out sizes (and styles) is by shopping online.  There are several reputable bridal retailers but shoppers need someone who can deliver items on time!

According to the website, “Promdressok.com is a professional and experienced online wedding dresses company. As the leading supplier of wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, party dresses and accessories, customers can select their favorite dresses here with great satisfaction.”

Shoppers can also receive the best price, a wide product range, assured quality, and world-class customer service.  Most importantly, all payments are secure, encrypted and protected.  Visit PromDressOk.com to find the wedding dress of your dreams!

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Accessories /

Wedding Salon Luxury Bridal Event – Recap

Wedding Salon hosted a luxury bridal event featuring top beauty and fashion trends on September 21, 2015.  The event was held at the Loews Madison Hotel and emulated a luxury wedding where affluent couples met with vendors face to face.

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Couples enjoyed Charm City Cake tastings, The Cocktail Guru Drinks, Style Me Bar beauty makeovers, Ava Laurenne gown previews, Costa Rica honeymoon giveaways, luxury swag bags and much more.


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Photo Credit:  BK Freeman Photography & Design

 

Accessories /

Ann Taylor – What To Wear Summer Wedding Essentials

Whether you’re headed to an exotic island or your boss’s daughter’s wedding – Ann Taylor has the essentials for surviving wedding season.

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Add a splash of color with your pumps
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Floral and Eyelet – always a classic style for summer wedding

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Neutral Tone Handbag
Neutral Tone Handbag
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Metallic Clutch
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Seascape Sunglasses compliment any dress


From a short-sleeved for church appropriate ensemble to sophisticated sheath dresses and wedges to keep you from sinking in the sand, Ann Taylor’s summer collection solves your wardrobe woes. Please see below for suggestions.

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