Steampunk Themed Photo Shoot

Last summer, I had the honor of working with Ann at Premier Bride Magazine to create a steampunk-themed photo shoot for their Winter/Spring 2015 issue. The magazine is out now, so we are finally able to share the photos with you! Not only did we get to shoot at my alma mater, Flagler College, our photographer is a fellow alum too. It was amazing working with such a talented team of wedding pros on this shoot: zach•thomas•photography, Jade Violet Wedding & Event Floral Boutique, Beautiful Faces by Erin, Jill Stonier, Professional Makeup Artist, Bridals & More, Take One Productions, Flagler College, Brooch the Possibilities, LLC St Augustine FL, The Panama Hat Company of St Augustine, Men's Wearhouse, Southern Charm Events, First Frost Designs and Simply Delicious Cakes.

And here is a great behind-the-scenes video to show how it all came together! It was so fun to think outside the box a bit for this shoot.

Pantone Announces 2014 Color of the Year: Radiant Orchid

Yesterday, Pantone announced the 2014 Color of the Year: Radiant Orchid. According to the press release,

"Radiant Orchid blooms with confidence and magical warmth that intrigues the eye and sparks the imagination. It is an expressive, creative and embracing purple—one that draws you in with its beguiling charm. A captivating harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid emanates great joy, love and health."

If you don't work in a design-related industry, you might wonder what the heck the "color of the year" is exactly.

"For more than a decade, Pantone’s Color of the Year has influenced product development and purchasing decisions in multiple industries, including fashion, home and industrial design, as well as product packaging and graphic design."

So next year, as you are strolling through the mall and see lots of this color everywhere, think back to this blog post and say, "Ahh, I get it!"

The photo on the right is an example of a bridesmaid's dress from Dessy in Radiant Orchid. Will you incorporate this color into your wedding? Share your ideas in the comments section!

Custom-Tailored Shirts and Ties For Your Groom and Groomsmen

The rented tux is pretty standard for weddings. On occasion, it might be a suit instead. But men's attire doesn't vary that much from wedding to wedding. Have you considered having the dress shirts custom-tailored to go with the rental?

For the grooms, this is a great way to have a special memento of the wedding day. And did you know that a special fabric can be sewn to the under-side of the cuffs, so that we you're out there dancing and rolling up your sleeves, you have a stylish surprise! Or check out the groom in the photo - he and his groomsmen all wore these great Gator shirts under their Air Force uniforms.

As a special touch, have his monogram embroidered on the cuff.

If you can't afford to buy custom shirts for all the groomsmen, think about having ties custom-made. Not only is that a great way to get the exact color or print you are looking for, but it's a great groomsman gift.

Whether buying shirts for all the groomsmen or just the groom, you'll need accurate measurements. There are also a variety of fits and collar types, and your tailor should be able to help you make selections based on body type. There are also fabric choices - not only in color but also thread count. Similar to buying sheets, higher thread counts tend to be softer.

A top-notch tailor will help you through all these decisions. If you are in Jacksonville, we recommend that you visit The Tailor Shop for expert guidance.

Words of Wisdom from Randy Fenoli

I recently attended an event in Orlando for wedding professionals featuring none other than Randy Fenoli, star of Say Yes To The Dress and Fashion Director at Kleinfeld Bridal. At the end of his presentation, Randy opened the floor to questions.  I asked, "What is the one thing you wish every bride would do before their first dress appointment?"  After the shouts of  "wear underwear!" from every seamstress and bridal shop owner in the audience, Randy answered the question quite simply: bring  in  pictures!

He suggests pulling  a few pictures (don't get carried away) from magazines of dresses that you like.  He said he can tell a lot from a picture - and it's not always about the actual dress.  It might be the fabric, it might be the look on her face.  So don't be afraid to bring in some ideas when you make your first appointment to try on gowns.

Randy has a new book coming out in November, which you can pre-order on Amazon.com.  It will have tons of his tips - and will feature only photos of real brides in real dresses in every shape and size.  We can't wait to read it, Randy, and thanks for helping make every bride beautiful!

Wedding Bustles 101

With a long history dating back to the 1800s bustles were originally worn by stylish women who wore a frame underneath their dress to support the back of their full skirts. Today brides bustle their dresses in order to lift the long trains of their gown off the floor (not to mention staying clean), making walking and dancing on the big day much easier!! Most bridal dresses don’t come with bustles and are instead added during the alteration process. There are many types of bustles:

• Over Bustle (Ballroom)

Is the simplest and most inexpensive type of bustle. However this type of bustle is prone to breaking during the reception, so brides with long trains or particularly heavy gowns should take this into consideration.

• Under Bustle (French or Victorian Bustle)

This type of bustle is very popular and great for brides who plan to be very active during their wedding. The under bustle is secured in place by tied ribbon.

• Tufted Bustle

This type of bustle utilizes jeweled appliqués at the gathering spots in order to highlight the tufts on the skirt of the gown.

• Pick up Bustle

This bustle is best for wedding dresses with shorter trains. There is only one pick up point selected and anchored much lower on the dress then on other bustles.

When deciding which bustle style to use for your wedding dress, keep in mind the fabric of your dress. If the fabric on your gown is delicate, like organza for example, make sure to choose a bustle style that reduces the weight on each bustle to avoid tearing. Also keep in mind your alterations budget, as bustles range in price depending on the type of bustle, length of train and fabric being used.

Image courtesy of Brides.com

Guest Post: Bridal Party Jewels

This post was written by one of our fabulous former clients, Ashley McCormick Travers.  Now Ashley works for Stella and Dot, and she was excited to share some of the latest looks with our readers. Brides are longing for that fun, creative statement to differentiate their wedding… Stella and Dot makes that happen.  As a First Coast Weddings client I was married to the cookie-cutter look and making sure my girls matched everything head to toe.   Fast forward three years and today I am in love with the mis-matched accessory look – changing up the jewelry and shoes amongst the bridal party.

As a Stella and Dot stylist I have TONS of fun styling brides, bridesmaids, flower girls, mothers of the bride and guests! And not only on the wedding day but showers, rehearsals and honeymoons too!  Our new vintage chic, on-trend looks for spring can quickly style the bridal party in affordable couture pieces they will surely work  with jeans, at the office or with a simple LBD.  Although so many brides’ wedding rings are white gold or platinum, everyone is wardrobing with gold baubles.  It’s the hottest look for 2011!

The Charlotte Charm necklace is under $50.  What I love most is the charms are removable, so I’ve seen each bridesmaid pick her favorite charm and each has a different look.  This also looks great layered with pearls and gold chains.

The Sofia Pearl Bib is my all time fave and biggest selling statement necklace hands down!  Stunning on the big day and perfect with jeans and a tank.

Great gift ideas are the initial charms and birthstone briolette charms.  A friend of mine just did the Glint flower necklace (stud set above) and stud earrings for all her bridesmaids.  A pulled together look in sterling silver for under $80 per girl.

The mini-soiree necklace with matching bracelet is ideal for the Flower girl.

Contact Ashley, your personal stylist, and let her work with you to create the look you want for any occasion.  Want to style your life? Become a stylist. Shop at her eboutique:  www.stelladot.com/ashleytravers

Pantone's Color Of The Year 2011

It's official - Pantone has released their 2011 Color of the Year:

Is anyone thinking of changing their wedding (or business) colors to add in this new choice?  2010's color of the year, Turquoise, will always be OUR color of the year!!

Pantone's Top 10 Spring 2011 Colors

It's that time of year again - Fashion Week!

These are the colors chosen as the Top 10 colors for Spring 2011.  I can't wait to see some of these fun and bright colors hit the stores!

Brides Against Breast Cancer Gown Sale

The Brides Against Breast Cancer Nationwide Tour of Gowns is coming to Jacksonville! This unique opportunity allows brides-to-be a chance to find the gown of their dreams at a remarkable price, while helping to make wishes and memory-making events come true. Most gown prices range from $99 to $799, including hundreds of beautiful new name brand and designer gowns valued up to $8,000.  More than half the gowns presented during each event are NEW designer gowns that arrived directly from designers, manufacturers and bridal retailers.

You won't want to miss it!

Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront 225 E Coastline Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32202

VIP NIGHT Friday, July 23: 6 PM – 9 PM $45 per Bride and guest, $20 each additional guest In addition to getting first pick of the gowns, enjoy hors d'oeuvres, a mini-bridal show, and a wedding expert panel discussion Buy tickets in advance

GENERAL SALE Saturday, July 24: 10 AM – 8 PM Sunday, July 25: 10 AM – 6 PM Free Admission

(this is me, volunteering at the Brides Against Breast Cancer gown sale in Orlando in 2009!)

Tuesday Tips: Trunk Shows

If you are in the market for a wedding gown, you may have seen invitations to trunk shows.  And you may be wondering, what is a trunk show, and should I go to one?

A trunk show is typically one or two days, where the designer or their representative travels to a bridal salon to showcase their new line.  Most salons have limited space for display and may not be able to have an entire line on hand - this gives you a chance to see more variety from a designer.

• Make an appointment! Time slots usually fill up fast.
• Talk to the designer or their rep about changes you'd like made to the dress - they should be able to easily tell you what will work and what won't.
• Ask about discounts.  There may be special incentives for ordering at the trunk show, or you might get those little changes (adding length, changing the neckline, etc.) thrown in for free.

Our friends at Sharon Batten are having a Ramona Keveza trunk show this weekend.  Call the shop at (904) 285-4544 for more details.

Legends by Romona Keveza Trunk Show

Love, A Bridal Boutique, is hosting a trunk show this week!

Legends by Romona Keveza Trunk Show January 22-23, 2010

Appointments are required, call (904) 242-9800.

Love, A Bridal Boutique434 3rd Street North Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250

Pantone + Dessy = Fun!

New York Fashion Week always makes me happy.  No, I don't have the joy of actually attending, although maybe someday! {Fingers crossed!} Fashion Week means it's time for the next Pantone Color Report to make its debut.  And OH, how I love some of these colors!

Although it's not too obvious since our website/blog re-design, our corporate color is turquoise.  And there it is, at the top of the list for 2010 Spring Colors - Pantone 15-5519.  My heart skipped a beat!

And who can help but love a color called Tomato Puree?!  And Pink Champagne - my fave!

But even beyond the greatness of the Spring Color Report is the fun of a whole new concept from Pantone and The Dessy Group. Pantone Wedding is a way to create inspiration boards to share and order color swatches to go with them! So much fun to play with.

Adorn Jewelry In The News

You may have heard about Adorn fine jewelry rental recently on The CBS Early Show, or read about them in USA Today.  If you haven't, here's the deal. You get to wear lots of expensive jewelry on your wedding day, without breaking your budget.

It's that simple.

You go to the Adorn website, search through their online catalog for just the right pieces to compliment your look, and place your order.  Your jewelry arrives two business days before the wedding, and comes with return packaging to send it back.  Best of all, our friends get 25% off! Just use promo code SNAA016 at checkout!!

View the Full-Size Adorn Promo Flyer

Remember, use promo code SNAA016 to receive 25% OFF!!

Hot or not?

What bride doesn't want to have great hair for their hairstylist to brag about on their wedding day? Even though you may not be doing your hair on your big day, it's still nice for the stylist to have an easy-to-work with mane that isn't overdried or full of breakage. There are tons of hair care products that claim to reduce the wear and tear that daily conditions put on your hair. While some of those may actually live up to what they say, you are really in control of the majority of damage that your tresses undergo. You ask, "How is that?" Well, my friend, it all comes down to heat exposure. If you are the kind of gal that takes a hot shower every day, followed by blow drying and straightening and/or rolling, chances are you're hair could stand a break.

You may think you have no other options, but you would be surprised to learn there are actually many alternatives if you get creative. Instead of a hot shower, maybe try warm water. From personal experience, I have found that when I rinse my hair with cool water, after about a week, I had fewer dead ends. Next in the process, you could attempt using the cool setting for drying your hair, just be careful with letting the ends of your hair beat in the wind, as this is also very rough on your locks. When it comes to straighteners and rollers, there really is no easy way around it. If you want straight-as-a-board hair, or you just love having that Barbie bounce, you've got to do what you've got to do. I would suggest testing out a few new styles. I have recently discovered that a side braid is very stylish and doable, but I don't have to actually do anything to my hair before braiding it. Another personal favorite of mine is having tousled hair. Some may be afraid of not being able to pull it off, but if you don't try it, you'll never know!

So, don't forget... you have the power! When in doubt about styling or tips, don't be afraid to search the internet. Fifty percent of the world is made up of women. The chances that some of those women are wondering the same things as you are highly possible!

(photo from TheKnot.com)

A Few Extra Steps

One of the most important pieces to a bride's outfit on her wedding day is her shoes. While it is common for a bride to wear a pair of shoes she already has, many brides purchase a new pair of shoes for this special occasion. At the end of her wedding day, the last thing any bride would want is a blister. Unfortunately, new shoes are the epitome of such a situation. On the bright side, there are a few ways this unwelcome occurrence can be avoided!

Before purchasing, make sure the shoes you are interested in fit properly. Blisters usually occur because a shoe is too tight or too loose. If a shoe store does not offer the size you need for the shoe you love, ask them if they can check other stores for you. If this does not work, check the internet. Considering that another culprit of blisters is sweating, ensure that your shoe has plenty of breathing room for your foot. These are very important factors to keep in mind before you buy your wedding day shoes.

After making the purchase, wear your new pair around the house for a few hours. This way, you will not only break them in, but you can also make sure they don't blister in places like your heel, or pinky toe. If they do blister, you have two options. You can either exchange that pair for a different one, or arrange to wear Band-Aids in the proper places on your wedding day.

If you plan correctly, blisters and unpleasant foot pains can be easily avoided simply by taking a few extra steps before your wedding.

(photo courtesy of La Dolce Vita Studio, from Michelle and Jamaal's April wedding)

Fall 2009 Color Trends

I was just looking over the 2009 Fall Color Report from Pantone, and realized that I hadn't posted about it.  Here's a peak if you haven't see the hot colors for fall:

Download the Pantone Fall 2009 Color Report (PDF)

I ♥ so many of these color combinations.  The possibilities are endless!  What are your favorites?  Are you using any of them in your fall wedding?

Trendy Bridesmaid Jewelry Your Maids Will Love

There is such a variety of bridesmaid jewelry out there, that finding a trendy piece that matches your wedding colors and theme is easy to do.  Giving the gift of bridesmaid jewelry to your maids is a gift that continues after the wedding.  Finding trendy pieces that both compliment your bridesmaids gown, but also compliment the color scheme is a task in itself.

With vintage with a modern twist being a fashion forward style, this also translates to many styles of bridesmaids jewelry as well.  There are many beautiful filigreed designed bridesmaid jewelry designs, they provide a vintage flair with modern crystals and pearls that add the final touches.

Finding jewelry pieces for your bridesmaids is one of the nice ways to say thank you for being a part of the special day.  Selecting quality made products that offer a timeless design actually gives your bridesmaids a piece that they can add to their own accessory collection and wear for many occasions to come.  Most style necklaces can be worn with a pair of jeans and a great blouse to up the fashion notch a bit.  Trendy bridesmaid jewelry selections also allow for your bridesmaids to wear their jewelry with great skirts and dresses that they may wear to other weddings, celebrations and memorable events.

When you select your bridesmaid jewelry, try to search for pieces that will first compliment their bridesmaids gowns, your wedding style and color scheme.  Finding a great piece that matches their gowns and fits their style as well is a gift to your bridesmaids that will keep on giving.  They will love and appreciate the thought you placed into their bridesmaid jewelry selections.

by Bonnie of Bonita J http://www.bonitaj.com info@bonitaj.com 888-430-2623

Cocktails and Designer Wedding Gowns!

Two of my favorite things in one location! Sharon Batten is having a cocktail party and fashion show at her boutique this Thursday evening, and you won't want to miss it.  Our team will be there, so contact us if you would like to join us.

BRIDAL FASHION SHOW Thursday December 11th

6-8pm

Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres

RSVP

Available by appointment Friday and Saturday

Oscar de le Renta

Vera Wang

Monique Lhuillier

Melissa Sweet

Priscilla of Boston

Lela Rose

The Cotton Bride

-- SharonBatten 330 A1A North, suite 212 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 Ph. 904.285.4544, Fax 904.285.4244

Here's a description that Nicole emailed to me:

I hope that you will be able to make this event. This a great chance to see  our gorgeous gowns being modeled. We will also have an assortment of extra gowns from the designers that we carry just for that weekend.  If you can think of anyone who might be interested, please forward along. Hope to see you soon.

If you can't make it to the event Thursday, be sure to check out Sharon Batten's Brial Atelier for great designer gowns any time!

Bella Bridesmaids Bash

I was thrilled to attend the grand opening celebration of Bella Bridesmaids last night!  What a fun evening.  I got to spend some time with Agnes Lopez and her husband Damon, Mark Pennington and Joi Perkins, Liz Stewart and her whole team, Christine Hoffman from TPC Sawgrass, Lynette and Judy from Rose of Sharon, Susan and Michael from Wilson's Ltd., and Jaycel Atkins from Etiquette of Chocolate.  Plus fellow wedding coordinators Monica Bernhardt from To-Doers and Christina Kopecki from Christina Kreations were there.  (With all those photographers there, is it possible no one took any pictures?!)

Bella Bridesmaids specializes in - you guessed it - bridesmaid gowns. According to their website, Bella Bridesmaid was created by Southern gal Bridget Brown in response to an overwhelming need for stylish, wearable and modern bridesmaid dresses.

They have all the fabulous designers, like Jenny Yoo, Priscilla of Boston, Melissa Sweet, Vera Wang, the list goes on and on!  And I was drooling over some of the adorable shoes on display from Blue Tux - I really loved the metallics, especially this cute little number!

Be sure to visit the Bella Bridesmaid Jacksonville location, now open in San Marco:

1626 Hendricks Avenue Jacksonville, FL 32207 Phone: 904.374.0351