Archive for May, 2010

Bridal Couture | That’s Hot! Fall 2010

Recently I was introduced to My Wedding Chat, and I love their recent feature on Fall 2010 wedding trends and thought I would share them with you!! For all you gals still plugging away at the big day planning, here are a few more ideas to get you stirring!

Out with the old, and in with the new! I am please to introduce the Fall 2010 wedding trends.

TIERED SKIRTS
The Fall 2010 collections are full of designer wedding gowns with natural waistlines and tiered skirts.  This trend focuses on layers and layers of lightweight fabrics and is commonly paired with a sweet heart neckline.  Tiered skirts are perfect for a fairytale bride and add a touch of drama.


Mori Lee Bridal Gowns 6603
Saison Blanche Bridal Gowns B3095
Pronovias Bridal Gowns Galatea


Allure Bridal Gowns 8713 Mori Lee Bridal Gowns 2912
Jacquelin Bridal Gowns 19841

FLATTERING FLORALS
Fabric flowers and appliquéd blossoms are in full bloom this season.  Sculpted flowers take texture to a new level; these flourished designer wedding gowns make a statement in a season that’s all about volume.


Allure Bridal Gowns 8755
Allure Bridal Gowns 8760
Mori Lee Bridal Gowns 1201


Mori Lee Bridal Gowns 2904
Christina Wu Bridal Gowns 15431

SHEER EXPOSURE
This season sheer and lace raised necklines are found in many Fall 2010 collections. These details create a romantic and dramatic illusion for a simply beautiful bride.


Sophia Tolli Bridal Gowns Vaughn
Pronovias Bridal Gowns Moscovia
Pronovias Bridal Gowns Marbella


Moonlight Bridal Gowns T321 Impressions Bridal Gowns Fabia

VINTAGE VEILS
The Fall 2010 collections have transformed the long veil into glamorous birdcage veils that covers only the face.  This short veil is paired with jewelry clips or feathered hairpieces for a dramatic couture look.


J.L. Johnson Birdcage Veils VR01
Sara Gabriel Birdcage Veils Jenna
Bel Aire Birdcage Veils 8797


Erica Koesler Wedding Hairpieces A-247
Bel Aire Wedding Hairpieces 1958
Symphony Wedding Hairpieces FL709

FLASHY FALL COLORS
The Fall 2010 color scheme consists of bold and earthy tones.  Deep red, teal, violet, mocha, and sage are some of the most prominent colors that are seen in the Fall 2010 collections.


Saison Blanche  SB2159
Jim Hjelm Occasions  JH5052T
Jim Hjelm Occasions JH5053T


Jim Hjelm Occasions  JH5063T
Jim Hjelm Occasions JH5068
Jim Hjelm Occasions JH5071

INDULGE SIMPLY
For the past few seasons small deserts have been popular, but this fall wedding cakes are making a comeback.  In 2010, forget the colorful tiered style wedding cakes and welcome back the simple, classic white wedding cakes.  For some finishing touches, add an antique cake topper (from your parents’ or grandparents’ wedding) or a few fresh flowers that match your bouquet.


Not a fan of the classic white wedding cakes? Create a mini pie bar with a variety of flavors for a desert that your guests will love.

PHOTO FABULOUS
Rethink the typical slide show presentation during the reception.  Consider digital photo frames and rotating card presented during cocktail hour. This season is about creativity.

BEAUTIFUL BOUQUETS
Don’t let the fall hues fade away.  White flowers will make the autumn arrangements stand out instantly.  To modernize the fall floral arrangements, add graphic calla lilies in contemporary containers.  For a rustic feel, add raffia and twigs to the bouquets and centerpieces.


I hope these 2010 Fall wedding trends inspired you in planning your Fall 2010 wedding.   The Fall 2010 collections of designer wedding gowns are full of volume and style – perfect for your fall wedding.  Jim Hjelm Occasions has an inspiring fall 2010 collection of bridesmaid dresses with fall colors that will complement your wedding party.  With Wedding Shoppe Inc., you can simply style your bridal party in the hottest fall 2010 trends with fall 2010 collections of designer wedding gowns, birdcage veils and wedding hairpieces.  Shop Wedding Shoppe Inc. today!


 

Passion Circle | Aly Darin Photography

OK ladies, I have actually been a victim to this next vendor’s lens. When I say victim, I really should say I was blessed to be introduced to this woman, and her amazing work, by having my headshot taken by her. But Victim has such a better ring to it . . . :)


Aly Darin, of Aly Darin Photography, actually made taking my headshot so much fun! She was completely professional and her personality exuded beyond the lens, which for me resulted in some great photos. Aly focuses on shooting intimate style weddings fewer than 200 guest. Her style is reflects the personal touch to detail needed in small gatherings without being overly intrusive. As a photographer, she also specializes in portrait photography, hence my headshots. You will start seeing her shots of me soon, but for now, I would like to introduce you to one of my favorite photographer, Aly Darin.


How long have you been doing what you do and how did you get to be a Photographer?

I’ve been shooting for over 11 years no and have been in business for myself for over 4 years. I have always enjoyed taking photos – but never really began studying and exploring photography until I was in college. It was during my college studies that I knew I was meant to use photography and the way that I view the world to document life for others!

Everything sounds great. So, can you tell me how you’re different from all the other photographers out there?

The one that makes me unique from other photographers is me! I follow my instincts in every situation that presents itself, which helps drive the shoot and allows me to capture the beauty of every moment I share with my client. Everything I photograph is on-site, which means that I come to my client’s location or a location of their choice for the shoot. Whether it’s a portrait session, special event or wedding – I strive to create relaxed and comfortable sessions, so everyone is at ease and enjoys being in front of my lens.

Who do you work best with?

I work best with those who are looking to be themselves and have the honest moments in their lives captured forever.


Who’s not going to benefit from your photography/style?

Weddings: I focus on small weddings with up to 175 guests in attendance. For those couples that are planning a larger wedding, I would not be a good fit.

Portraits: Since I shoot everything on-site, I would not be a good fit for a client looking for an in-studio look to their photos.


Do you take credits cards and do you have a payment plan?

I will be accepting credit cards shortly, and am happy to work individually with my clients if a payment plan is needed.

Do you take more than one wedding per day?

No. I dedicate a full day to my brides and grooms, to ensure that I am available if they need me earlier or later than anticipated. Booking two weddings in one day wouldn’t allow me that luxury or the personal attention I dedicate to my wedding clients.


How does your process work?

When booking a wedding with me I like to meet with the bride and groom to see if we are a good fit and to make sure my style of shooting is in alignment with their expectations. At this time I share my package pricing and the details of my contract. Once they’ve decided on booking with me, the contract is signed and a 50% deposit is collected. At this meeting, the details of the wedding day are discussed, so I can create a timeline and collect a shot list from the couple.

Between our first meeting and the wedding day I try to schedule a fun engagement session, which I’ve added as a permanent ‘free offer’ for all of my wedding clients that book with me. The engagement session is the perfect way to spend some extra 1on1 time with the happy couple and really get to know them before the big day!


Around 2 weeks after the wedding day I create an online slide show, this can then be shared with family and friends. Orders for albums and prints can then be placed using the slide show as a reference.

For the portrait side of the business, I meet with the client, or discuss via email or phone, the details for the session. (location, who will be part of the photo shoot, their needs in regards to prints/albums/wall portraits) Portrait sessions last around 1 hour and take place at an on-site location. Around 1 weeks after the session I email an online slide show, which can be shared with family & friends and used as a reference for placing the final print order.


May we contact some of your former clients to see what it’s like to work with you?

Absolutely! I can be contacted directly for this information.

Can couples call or email you to discuss this further?

I would love that!

248-830-9813

aly@alydarinphotography.com

OH, if you know me well enough, you’re probably asking why I L*ove Miss Aly sooo much, she’s become a Passion Circle Vendor for my intimate elite couture brides? As you know, the Passion Circle is an elite hand selected group of vendors I fell in love with because there is something about them that is so absolutely unique that are a MUST work with vendor! So, I can’t forget to mention the R*EAL reason I HAD to introduce her to you all. What I love about her, aside from her bubbly persona, is her smile! She is the first photographer I’ve ever met (and I’ve met a LOT!) that smiles as she is taking photos; and it’s a permanent chagrin! How can you not love that!

Can you imagine her smile the moment she captured this beauty?


Make sure to check out her website and become a fan on Facebook! Aly for spending some time with us today and we can’t wait to partner up again!


 

Bridal Couture | What’s Old is New . . . Again!


Looking to bring vintage style to your modern affaire? I was recently introduced to The Whirling Turban and couldn’t wait to treat you to this eye candy! Step into your custom 50′s-esque wedding dress and party like its 1955!



(love the back on this dress!!!)



Rock the birdcage veil, short dark nails, tightrope walking bright colored high heels and draw on your inner pin-up gal ala Marilyn Monroe!


Alternatively, maybe save this diva style for your reception party attire!

50′s glam?  What do you think?


 

Cultural Celebration | Wedding Series – Pakistani Mehndi Night

I absolutely love finding ways to share cultural rich traditions with you every Tuesday. While it’s hard innovative ways to share traditions in a new way, I am excited to share this pictorial layout from Saudi Arabia’s freelance photographer Nidal M. He recently created a series of post on Pakistani weddings. We are hoping to share the entire series with you here as well, but for now, check out his work on Mehndi!

This is a continuation of my series of posts on Pakistani weddings. Check out Courtship and Marriage in Pakistan and The Dholki and Mayoon for the first two parts!

Ah, the beautiful night of Mehndi. Colors, clothes, rasms, all blend to make this easily the most cultural night at Pakistani marriages. It is usually held a day or two before the actual wedding and this being the first time the groom and bride’s sides of the family see each other, all about competition!

The term Mehndi itself is the Urdu/Hindi word for Henna, and the event itself is sometimes called Rasm-e-Henna. Traditionally the Mehndi was held separately for the bride and the groom, however in more recent times, the couples’ families will hold a joint function for all the guests of the weddings.

The Mehndi is also usually the first time the extended families of the bride and groom will get to see each other. It’s really quite interesting to see utter strangers on the Mehndi turn into family by the end of the third day and as you may see, the different rasms (customs) help promote this interaction in a traditionally closed society.


The term Mehndi comes from the intricate henna tattoos Pakistani and Indian women draw on their hands for celebrations. While henna is not restricted to weddings (It’s also done for Eids and other happy occasions), those done for the bride in weddings are decidedly special.


The joint event will usually take place in a wedding hall or a specially made tent. The recent trend is for families to announce color and clothes themes for each of the wedding functions. This time around, it was ‘kurta shalwaars’ with red ‘dupattas’ draped across the neck. Dupattas are usually a female garment and celebratory events (and technically JUST weddings) are the only times you’ll see them worn by men. As you will see later, they help in dancing!


Music is a central aspect of Mehndis and live music will sometimes be provided for guests. The ‘tabla’ pictured here is a traditional percussion instrument, similar the ‘dhol’ seen earlier. With several tablas in front of them, each of them producing different notes depending on where they are hit, tablas require considerable skill to play!


The bride’s guests will usually arrive at the venue first, and make preparations for the groom. Since the concept at South Asian weddings is “The groom’s side comes to take the bride away”, before the Walima, all the events are held as if hosted by the bride’s.


Yellow is the predominant color at the Mehndi, and yellow flowers and drapes are usually used to adorn the stage on which the bride and groom will be ‘displayed’; and where bored photographers will choose to go all Shakespearean and dramatic :P


At the predetermined time (+30min, since when is anything in Pakistan on time ;P) the groom’s side will arrive together in a procession, bearing gifts of flowers, sweets, bangles and trays of henna with candles.


The brides’ side’s reception is equally warm! Close relatives will stand at the gate to welcome the groom’s family with flowers and smiles : )


Flower petals are thrown at the groom’s guests as they enter, and flower necklaces are given to the close family. Understandably, this is a very traumatic experience as the next 15min are spent picking out petals from hair and clothes ;P Why do we still do this again?


All the gifts, from both the bride’s and groom’s sides are placed in front of the stage, to display to everyone present. Colorful isn’t it? Careful though! Can anyone say fire hazard? *nods*

Check out the rest of the post here.

 

Invitation Couture | I Do Invites in Multiple Language

Love, LOVE, L*O*V*E* our friend Fri over at Wedding Nouveau! While she recently changed the storefront of her website/blog, her style, class, and personality continue to shine through! She’s on the cutting edge is always sending us great things to share with you! Here is a fabulous find from Wedding Nouveau, featuring a Brooklyn based Invitation specialist, Melinda Morris, co-owner with her husband David, or Lion in the Sun. After leaving the non-profit organization world, Melinda rejoined her family business with a 25 year history serving brides, mom’s to be, and anyone looking for beautiful and unique invitations. As a letter-pressing connoisseur, Melinda offers some helpful tips on the art & etiquette of intercultural stationary.

It doesn’t matter where you’re from, the marriage of two cultures is often a delicate balance of creativity, charisma  and courtesy.

Adopting the three C’s mentioned above, when picking the perfect invitation set will be no easy decision, but I’ve enlisted the help of paperie professional to help guide your process.

LOVE ME IN MANY CULTURES


Melinda offered her Top five ways on how to infuse cultural diversity and heritage into invitation design, using language, an important arsenal in her vault of ideas
1. Using two (or often 3) languages is a great way to honor everyone’s heritages – and of course insures that everyone can read the invite and feel included.
2. Imagery – choosing icon imagery from each culture and incorporating both into the design is a great way to show this fusion.  (Ex: Big Ben and the Taj Mahal, or a cherry blossom and a lotus flower)
3. Wording cultural difference in the language and layout of the invitations can be significant as well. Perhaps incorporating these traditional elements is another way to share cultural references.
4. Colors – Culturally, wedding colors vary greatly. By incorporating traditional colors into your wedding you automatically set a important
cultural tone. ( Ex: red and gold for Chinese weddings)
5. Pattern – Representing patterns that are distinctly cultural like tartan and Thai silk, or rice paper. Combing these patterns in elements of
your invites speaks volumes without saying a word.

LOVE ME IN MANY LANGUAGES

Here a few more eye catchy styles from Lion in the Sun.  These don’t even begin to cover the wide range of style options from weddings, to baby showers, Bar Mitzvahs and every excuse to be quite fabulous.


“Beautiful and creative invitations set the tone for your day and get your guests excited in anticipation of the great day you have in store.  It is a keepsake that will be held and looked at an admired much more than anything else in your wedding both before and long after.”

- Melinda Morris, Fine Stationery Designer -

Thanks again Fri for all your fabulous additions to the Cultural Couture!!


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