The Fab Five

1. Lillian West 6302
This stunning lace fit and flare gown by Justin Alexander’s newest collection, Lillian West, has everything a bride could dream of.  Low back? Check. French lace? Check. Bling? Check. Super reasonably priced? Check!! Wow your guests while keeping your budget in check with this gown from the 2014 debut collection…and then blow all the leftover money on shoes!

2. Tejani B137
Looking for a show stopper necklace to complete your look? Consider wearing this crystal necklace to your wedding, and every formal event afterwards! This super sparkly necklace is perfect for the bride who’s not one for big earrings, but still loves bling. Pair it with a strapless gown and an up-do to emphasize the sparkle and some big art deco style studs to match (like Tejani’s Classic Drop Earrings B136).

3. Toni Federici Wysteria Veil
Made with Russian Tulle, the Wysteria veil by Toni Federici has an ivory flower and ostrich feather on the side to give a little oomph to your chignon. This veil is perfect for the vintage inspired bride, or a bride who loves something a little more unique.  Best part, Toni can make the flower detachable so when you are ready to really get down on the dance floor, remove the veil part and keep the fun feather/flower combo in your hair for the rest of the evening!

4. Sorella Vita 8201
Martina Liana is not only a fabulous wedding gown designer, but she also has a magnificent bridesmaid line called Sorella Vita. While these gowns come in a variety of sizes, styles and colors…they are anything but your typical bridesmaid gown. The one shoulder accent can be dressed up or down depending on the time of day for the wedding, and chiffon tends to be the most flattering on all body types.  Even better…this actually can be worn again!

5. Benjamin Adams Charlize Shoes
On the wedding day, a bride shines brighter than any other person in the room, so why not add a little extra sparkle! These fun and flirty Benjamin Adams shoes have all the appeal of Louboutin’s, without the crazy price tag! Make them even more special by adding your new initials in Swarovski crystals on the souls, and surprise your new hubby when he goes for your garter!

:: Jordan, Bridal Stylist ::

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Wedding Insurance

Wedding Insurance...something you may not have thought about for your big day. What is it? A basic policy that will protect your investments (photographs, videos, gifts, attire, rings and any deposits) and reimburse you should anything go wrong. This type of coverage can range from $150 - $600, and can protect your wedding for up to 1,000,000.00. Be sure to check with your wedding reception site as well as your other vendors first to inquire about what kind of coverage they have, before you make your decision.

:: Meghan, Floor Manager ::

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The Fab Five

Dress, dresses and more dresses!!! After last week’s accessory trunk show, this week I am just being dress greedy. And why not? The dress is one of the best parts about a wedding, whether it’s on the bride or the flower girl, getting dressed up is for a special occasion and playing dress up is just plain fun!

1. Martina Liana 411
Let’s just get it out in the open and say that I have the biggest crush on this gown. The soft sweetheart neckline, the blush pink silk organza and the fully beaded French alecon lace bodice is enough to make a girl go weak in the knees. This gown is perfect for a romantic garden wedding or an evening affair under the stairs. Bring out the sparkle on the lace with Martina Liana’s Ali belt or a Toni Federici Broadway veil and watch everyone gasp.

2. Jim Hjelm 5257
Short and sweet, this Mikado bridesmaid dress is chic enough to be worn after the wedding is over. Perfect in black for a formal wedding, or keep it light and springy with the Pale Pink and give your bridesmaid a look worthy of Vogue. Add a crystal beaded belt to amp up the wow factor or pair with a long strand of pearls for a preppy look.

3. Kathy Ireland KI1325
Who says your mom has to look like Margeret Thatcher  on your wedding day? This gown by Kathy Ireland is worthy of Sofia Vergara walking the red carpet at the Emmy’s, and as far from the Mother of the Bride look as possible.  I love this gown in black, but if you really want to make a statement do the red with a big diamond collar necklace to really give it that Emmy edge.

4. Pronovias Vaiven
This adorable, short gown is made with a venetian lace, and is a spunky take on the traditional bridal gown. For the bride who’s always wanted a wedding gown but never felt quite like herself in a full length, this gown is as fabulously couture as it gets. Perfect for your reception or a courthouse wedding, give it a Zoe Deschanel twist by adding black tights and some high ivory D’orsey pumps. Side note: this gown looks amazing with a dramatic fascinator!

5. Sherri Hill 2984
Dear Taylor Swift,
I found your next red carpet gown. It is sparkly, has a full a-line skirt and is perfect for performing on stage. While this gown would be fabulous with a crystal guitar, Sherri Hill even has a short version for an after party. Please feel free to contact me if you want to wear it, I expect to hear from you today.
Sincerely,
Jordan

:: Jordan, Bridal Stylist ::

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6 Tips for Choosing the Right Wedding Photographer and Package for You

 6 Tips for Choosing the Right
Wedding Photographer and Package for You

by Sarah Roshan

1. Personality. Personality. Personality.  - Do you "click" with this person? Remember that this person will be with you all day on one of the most important intimate days of your life. It is so important that you feel comfortable with them. What do they stand for? What is important to them? What do they believe? This will often reflect in their photographs and personality. If you don't like your wedding photographer, I can almost promise you you won't like the end product no matter what. Ask them who they are (not in the photography sense but who they are as a person) and why they love weddings. Go with your gut, it's usually right. There are a lot of talented people out there, go with the one that most fits your personality and what is important to you.

2. Photographic Style - Going back to number 1 (Personality), most likely their personality will show through their photographs. I am a die hard romantic. For example, you will notice my style is very natural and a softer, romantic feel. For me, it is all about the couple, their love, and what their adventure together. A Bride (for me) is not complete without her groom. Other photographers might be a little more dramatic, add more saturated colors, retro filters. Ask them what about their personality reflects in their photographs, and what they would say is their photographic style.

3. Do an engagement session - Often times couples skip out on an engagement session because they feel like they don't "need to do them". I strongly encourage you to ask your photographer if they either offer an engagement session or if it is included in their package. I highly recommend an engagement session (I believe in them so much that I include in complementary in all my packages). It gives you a chance to practice being photographed, it gives your photographer time to play with your best angles and see how you interact with each other, and it give you a chance to see you in their work. When you get to your wedding day it makes things so much easier on everyone. You know your photos are going to rock and the photographer knows you a little better. It's win - win for everyone.

4. Choose a specialist - You wouldn't hire your general practice doctor to do your knee surgery, so don't pick a newborn photographer to photograph your wedding. Weddings are a different animal when it comes to lighting, posing, receptions, flash, people. Hire someone who relies on weddings as 80% or more of their income. They are are used to the ups and downs and craziness that happens, they are used to timelines, and will know the best ways to get the photos you are wanting. A Specialist may charge a little more but they will be worth it (see below).

5. Don't skimp - The average wedding in America is $25,000 - How much did you spend on your wedding dress, your cake, your food, your DJ, your flowers, your venue? You should allow for photography to be about 10-20% of your budget (sometimes more). Remember that your photos will last a lifetime and beyond and all those beautiful details and moments won't look like much with a below average photographer. There is also no substitution for experience. An experienced professional wedding photographer will most likely cost a little more, but knows what it takes to run an efficient business and still make a profit as well as give you an amazing experience and photographs that will last a lifetime.

6. Buy an album in your package - Digital Images are all the rage. Every one of my packages includes digital images, however don't underestimate the importance of a printed album. Our technology is changing so fast that we never know what will be the digital medium in 30 years. Remember that 8 track tapes were the wave of the future at one point and now you can only find players for them at antique stores. Photos that are printed on archival photo paper are meant to last hundreds of years. In the very least print out your photos or ask your photographer for a proof set. You may think you will put yours own together or you will order it later. Life happens, you get busy and you never get around to it. It's okay I get it. Do yourself a big favor and get your album up front.

About Sarah Roshan, Wedding Photographer:
· I am the romantic photographer for carefree, adventurous couples planning their outdoor wedding.
· I was born for the theatre, and the magic of getting lost in someone else’s story.
· I could live on Jelly Bellys, Gummy Bears … and perfectly salted margaritas.
· I always buy two things whenever I go present shopping for my hubby, one for him and one for me.
· I thrive on afternoon naps (preferably outside in a hammock).  And, I love rain… period.
· I’ve been known to ditch work and disappear into mountains for entire afternoons – just me, the fish and memories of Grandpa.
· I believe that all true beauty lives in imperfection.
· I believe being wrapped in one of mom’s hand-crafted blankets, sipping from a hot cup of cocoa, and being hypnotized by a fire that is too-large is heaven on earth.
· I love Dexter.  And, Breaking Bad.  (There, I said it.)
· I believe in play-dates with my husband and getting lost in our silliness, together.
· I believe love is best as an adventure, because surprises should always be shared.
· I believe in falling in love, over and over. Every. Single. Day.

To find out more about me and see my work please visit my website at www.sarahroshanphoto.com I look forward to getting to know more about you.

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The Fab Five

Yesterday was the kickoff of our Toni Federici trunk show here at The Bridal Collection, so this week we will be spotlighting our favorite finds from the fabulous bridal accessory collection. Toni Federici is an American veil and bridal accessory designer out of Washington who gives the classic pearls a twist with her signature Swarovski crystals and makes the veil as memorable as the dress! All handmade in the United States, the qualities of her products are impeccable and worthy of being handed down to the next generation for something borrowed.

1. Lilly Earrings
These stunning dangling earrings are a mix and Swarovski pearls and Swarovski crystals are perfect for the bride who wants to forgo the pearl necklace, but not lose the tradition. These earrings go with almost every gown, and are long enough to make an impression while not overpowering your gowns subtle accents.

2. Gallant necklace
Pearls conjure up the image of a sophisticated and refined lady, so it’s no wonder they are synonymous with weddings. But there is often a battle between the classic bridal look, and the modern direction our styles are moving towards. Fear not ladies, because Toni Federici has created a necklace that combines pearls and bling, and even a little back detail too. Pair this necklace with a low back strapless gown and an up do for little sparkle on your wedding day while not losing that classic look.

3. Tart Veil
Horsehair veils are on the top of my style list for 2012. This playful, double edged horsehair veil falls in soft layers down your back almost reaching the floor but not quite, giving it the name waltz length. This veil is crisp and preppy so pair it with a simple dupioni satin gown or a chiffon sheath with a beaded wreath for an art deco look.

4. Beignet Hair Piece
The vintage romantic look is becoming more and more popular as brides take their venue outside to mountaintops, lake sides and barn settings. This hair piece of gold and bronze crushed velvet flowers is accentuated by Swarovski crystals, giving it just the right amount of sparkle to glam up the old Hollywood style flowers. I love this headpiece with a low chignon and a high neck lace gown in a light gold or champagne and gold jewelry.

5. Meringue Veil
There is nothing I love more than the personality of a fabulous poufy veil. This veil creates a bubble effect surrounding the brides' bodice, bringing out a tailored look with a couture twist. This look is not for everyone, but I adore pairing a short layered veil with a fitted charmeuse gown evoking a 1950’s glamour with a wild side.

:: Jordan, Bridal Stylist ::

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Wedding Registry 101

Get Started Early - It is never too soon to get started on your registries. After all, you'll be receiving gifts for several of the events surrounding the wedding, including your engagement party, shower and bachelor/bachelorette party.

Go Together - It is important that you take inventory on what the two of you already own, compare lists, and create a master list of things that you need to fill in the gaps. If you're having difficulty agreeing on a style, divvy up the final say.

SCAN, SCAN, SCAN! - You can never register for too much! Scan anything that you think will make your house a home. This can include kitchenware, bed and bath linens and accessories, electronics, and even adventures for your honeymoon!

Be Considerate of your Guests - It's best to register at 3 or 4 places, giving your guests a wide selection to choose from, as well as varying price points. It's also a good idea to have your registries available online, for guests who are out-of-state.

Don't Forget to Update - If you have received a gift from your registry, double check that it has been removed from your registry list. This way you're not receiving multiples. It is also possible that items you registered for early on, have gone on sale. This can be good and bad. The items may no longer be readily available, potentially leaving you with 4 plates when you registered for 8. It's best to remove sale items from your registry.

Thank Your Guests - Be courteous. Let your guests know that you have received their gift. A handwritten thank you note should be sent, listing the item gifted to you by name. For gifts received before the wedding, a note should be sent within two weeks. For gifts received at the wedding, a note should be sent within a month of the return of your honeymoon.

:: Meghan, Floor Manager ::

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The Fab Five

This week, I really wanted to highlight my favorite fabric for weddings....lace! I think lace is synonymous with weddings, and never goes out of style. Lace in itself is soft, romantic and can work for any setting or any style of wedding. It's not our grandmothers doily lace any more, and it is being seen  more and more with couture styles  that would have normally been reserved for satin or beading. See the way lace has changed with some of our favorite pieces this week!

1. Lazaro Bridal Style 3308

Are you looking for a classic but dramatic gown? This Lazaro gown is the perfect mixture between modern couture and timeless lace. Made with French Alecon lace (alecon is a fancy French way of saying re-embroidered lace) and a hand pleated silk organza skirt, this mermaid gown hugs all of your curves and still has a stunning chapel length train. Keep it classic with a cathedral length lace veil (like my next Fab Five pick, the Swirl veil by Toni Federici) or pair it with an birdcage veil with a playful feather flower.

2. Toni Federici Swirl Veil
The idea of a chapel length veils tend to scare people, but I love the way they frame the bride in a haze of tulle without cutting any lines in the gown and elongating your figure. This stunning re-embroidered Chantilly  Lace and horse hair (a stiffening agent used on tulle to create an edge without a traditional piping) veil by the extraordinarily talented by Toni Federici  is a beautiful way to show off your gown during your trip down the aisle.  Wear this with a classic lace gown to tie everything together, or add it to a simple tulle ball gown for a touch of lace and a hint of whimsy. Lace veils tend to be a bit more pricey, but unlike the bridal gown, a lace veil can be passed down generation to generation becoming a family heirloom.

3. Kathy Ireland 2BE238
This Jackie Kennedy style knee length gown by Kathy Ireland is sophisticated and form fitting. The scooped neckline gives enough coverage while still showing off your neck and collarbone, plus it balances out the slim fit of the gown. While there is a stigma about wearing black to a wedding, I think if you love it, it's totally appropriate especially when the groom and groomsmen are wearing a black suit. This black lace is layered over a nude lining which really pops the pattern on the lace and gives the dress a peek-a-boo element. Extra bonus: you can also buy fab shoes to show off!

4. Hey Lady! Heel Boy Shoes
Hey Lady! is a cute, and comfortable wedding shoe company that specializes in vintage design with modern sensibility. These silk heels come in 3” or 4” inch heels, and have a little lace detailing at the heel keeping the shoe understated, but still having some signature bridal pizazz. The best part? These shoes are made the NASA developed memory foam and a dancers toe box for maximum comfort and style.  Even better, they have tons of other styles and colors to woo you on your special day.

5. Joan Calabrese 19328 Flower Girl Dress
Let’s be honest, a little girl walking down the aisle is cute enough on her own, but put her in an adorable flower girl dress that picks up on the details of the brides gown, and her cuteness level goes through the roof. This Joan Calabrese dress is adorable and looks fantastic next to a lace bridal gown, and appropriate for flower girls of all ages. With a satin bodice and cap sleeves trimmed with French Alecon Lace, this dress is cute and classy, a tough mix for the under six sect! Bonus points have your flower girl wear it again as an Easter gown and get some extra miles out of it.   

:: Jordan, Bridal Stylist ::

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NEXT Weekend :: Toni Federici Trunk Show

NEXT Weekend :: Toni Federici Trunk Show. Call 720.493.9454 to schedule your accessory appointment and complete your look!

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Tips for a Successful Fitting

To achieve the best possible fit of the gown, your seamstress will want you to bring your actual wedding shoes (or a pair of the same heel height) as well as any undergarments that you will be wearing under the gown.

Bring 1 or 2 close friends or family members whose opinions you appreciate.

Be sure to eat a light meal and drink water before your appointment to avoid getting lightheaded.

Stop by the restroom before getting started.

It's not easy to stand in place while wearing heels for an hour, it's okay to shuffle your feet and bend your knees every now and then.

Don't be afraid to speak up if you're not certain about what your seamstress is doing.

You'll want to make sure you can sit, dance and walk in your gown with ease.

Relax. Breathe. Enjoy the moment. Everything is going to be just fine.

:: Meghan, Floor Manager ::

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The Fab Five

Reminder: all Fab5 items will be 10% off until next Friday!

1. Justin Alexander 8638 Gown
This vintage inspired ball gown by Justin Alexander is the perfect mix between feminine and fabulous. The champagne tulle softens the beaded underlay but still catches the light as you glide across the dance floor. Pair it with rose gold jewelry for a warm sparkle or add a beaded bolero for an Oscar inspired look.

2. Grazia Valentine Shoes
These cute peep toe pumps with a vintage brooch detail are the answer to brides who want a sexy wedding shoe, but would rather keep things all in one color palette. Pretty enough for an obligatory shoe shoot on the wedding day, plus they have a 4" inch heel which could boost you up enough to avoid a hem! Forgot something blue? These shoes even have a baby blue painted soul. Pretty and functional!

3. Martina Liana Ali Sash
Oh how I love thee sash, let me count the ways.  Ask anyone who knows me knows, and they’ll tell you sparkle is my favorite color, and Martina Liana out did herself on this sash. The delicately woven pattern of white sequins and Swarovski crystals brings the wow factor to any dress it is worn with. Sewn delicately on a silk dupioni sash, it comes in a variety of colors and fabrics to match almost any wedding gown. Wear it with a full lace sheath for a touch of glam or layer it over a beaded bodice to bring out your gowns sparkle for a little extra bling on the big day. 

4. Erica Koesler A-418 Hairpiece
I have to admit, I have a feather problem. And why not? Feathers are a fun, new take on the classic silk hair flowers, and they add a bit of the fascinator look that we’ve been obsessing over since the royal wedding. This “flower” is hand made with ostrich feathers, which cascade around your hair and move as you move. I love this paired with a simple a-line gown to bring a fun and flirty look when you remove your veil, or lieu of a veil with a tea length gown to give an updated Jackie O vibe.

5. Pronovias 114 Lace Jacket
Most brides already know of Pronovias for their romantic lace gowns and their European styling, but I love Pronovias for the beautiful jackets and bolero’s they design for their gowns. This jacket, in a French alecon lace, comes off the shoulder with a three quarter sleeve and attaches down your back with silk covered buttons. It is perfect for a bride looking for a more demure look in the church, or a bride who has been dreaming of that Grace Kelly inspired gown for her big day. Take a gauzy English net gown and add to the softness by layering the lace jacket over the bodice tying everything together with an Ivory silk bow for a garden wedding or add it over a full lace mermaid dress for a sexy, yet timeless look that your fiancé and Grandma can both love!

:: Jordan, Bridal Stylist ::

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Cute Kits

Mini luggage "survival kits" with monogrammed luggage tags for the bridal party, bride and groom's families. Also would be adorable for the kids attending the wedding!

photo credit stylemepretty

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The Fab Five

The Bridal Collection is excited to show our brides the things that are wow-ing us each week. We'll be highlighting everything from wedding gowns we drool over to fabulous accessories, special occasion gowns and anything that just makes us say "ahhh!!" All Fab5 items will be 10% off until next Friday's list comes out!

1. Manuel Moto's Ventura Gown

Whats not to love about this gown that stopped the show at the Pronovias 2012 fashion show in Barcelona?!?!  All mother of pearl beads patterned to highlight your curves, a low back covered in sheer illusion tulle and beaded to give the illusion of showing everything while keeping it demure enough for grandma! This gown could work for a low key beach affair or a black tie art deco wedding at a vintage mansion.

2. Toni Federici "Charlotte" Headband

When it comes to weddings, my whole theory is go big or go home. And this headband is big in the most fabulous way possible. All hand made in sterling silver with swarovski crystals, you could walk down the aisle with it adorning your romantic up do, then take your hair down and wear it as a belt for your reception. With a headband like this,  you could easily dress up a more casual chiffon goddess style gown or add some extra drama to a fully beaded ballgown.

3. Flattering Me Long Ling Bra

Wedding gowns are made so well these days, that you don't often need any undergarments to make it fit...but on the day where a woman is photographed more than any other day of her life, who wouldn't like a little extra support? Unlike a traditional strapless, this bra fits down to the top of your hip, holding you in and cinching your waist while supporting your bust and keeping you secure all night. Order it in nude and use it for any other occasion that you would normally wear a strapless bra, and relish in the fact that you can eat and drink all night in your fitted mermaid, and still look red carpet ready.

4. Bel Aire 6339 Sash

When one of my favorite all pearl beaded sashes was discontinued,  I thought I would never find something I loved as much. Then Bel Aire came out with this delicate pearl beaded sash with light silver crystal detailing, and I've fallen in love all over again. This sash is classic enough to wear grandma's pearls or moms diamond earrings and still look understated and elegant. I love it to define a bride's waist in a full lace gown and pairing it with Toni Federici's pearl and swarovski crystal jewelry to add just a little sparkle.

5. Jovani 171924 Cocktail Gown

Short and spunky, this cocktail gown is fabulous for your bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner or as a fun reception gown to dance the night away. The key hole back is fun and playful, the feathers add spunk, and its short so you can finally show off your gorgeous bridal shoes! Another excuse to buy a super cute gown...how could we say no?!?

:: Jordan, Bridal Stylist ::

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