Your Dream Gown

I find that the reality of your dream gown and what you can afford are usually 2 different things. A friend of mine just told me that she spent $2000 on a gown, and it was definitely a steal of deal! But maybe because I'm surrounded by the industry, I think that's a great price. Most people don't see it as such.
They think, why would I spend that much on my wedding day - sure it's a valid point, but that's how much they cost.

So what's your dream gown - is there a designer you've always loved but know it's out of the price range? For me it's Pnina Tornai - exclusive designer at Kleinfeld's and just an amazing talent!
Although I don't have a dress picked out from Pnina, I always envisioned it to be something like:

Stunning, isn't it? Her dresses usually range in the $7000 + category, so really.... it's a dream dress not a "gonna pick it up" dress.

Let me know what your DREAM DRESS IS! Who's your favourite designer, what are you dreams when it comes to the perfect wedding dress?

Have a great weekend,

Valerie

How to avoid becoming a Bridezilla

Alright, now I have a bone to pick... ladies, why do some of you get SO obsessed with your weddings as to go to the point of turning into a total and utter Bridezilla?!?

Does it really matter if the the napkin shades are off a tad? Do you need to bring out the attitude just because you spotted one dirty glass? I'm not sure I will ever understand the fascination behind the obsession, but here are a few tips to avoid terrorizing everyone involved in your bridal party...

• Don't be a control freak. Yes you want to get what you pay for, but be realistic. Some things will always be out of your control and last minute - don't let these things get to you and ruin your day as well as others.
  
  

• Remember what the day is really about. It's not about the cake having the perfect amount of flowers, the dress upstaging everyone else's or any of the material things surrounding you. It is about you committing to someone else for the rest of your life and promising to always be there for them. Start being the significant other that can handle reality from day one.
  
  

• Leave your ego at the door please. Yes, this day is about you... no, you are not God. Just because you will be the center of attention does not give you the right to step on other people or belittle them. Keep your head grounded no many how many wishes, congrats and compliments you may receive. Being humble is strongly underrated.
  
  

Hope these tips and tricks help you walk down the aisle with class and grace on your big day... nobody wants to be the bride everyone remembered as



BRIDEZILLA.... (ahhhhhhhhh!)



xox



Fashionista 514

Trash the Dress Wedding Photography

Now some brides go to ultimate extremes when it comes to creating a memorable wedding album... the hot not-so-new trend of "trash the dress photography" - yes, that is actually it's official name involves brides being shot destroying their dresses via fire, earth, water, paint... really whatever they can get their hands on!

The result is a fierce artistic expression, some reminiscent of a fantasy or fairytale scene... very, very cool if you can cope with destroying a beautiful piece of clothing (not to mention pricey)!

I really love the images. They may be a bit edgier, but I find they add a lot of honestly, personality and natural beauty to the pictures... much nicer than bridal parties placed in rows for a group pic. These photo's are romance revived!

Have a beautiful week

xox

Fashionista 514

Getting the Most out of a Bridal Show

(image from the 2009 Bridal Boudoir Affair)

We're often asked how to "tackle" a bridal show. It's very overwhelming for most brides as there is just so much to see, eat, try and do! Here are a few key steps that will help you make the most of a bridal show.


1. Buy your tickets for the show in advance! Shows usually offer early birds, coupons and promotions before the show, unfortunately at the door... there is no deal!

2. Don't drag your man to the show - that is unless he wants to go! A bridal show is very, how do you say, targeted to women. Although it's great to have your finance with you, if he doesn't want to go... don't drag him!

3.Bring a camera! This is a little trick we tell all our brides! If you see an idea or are inspired by the set-up, it's easier to show your planner what you want when you have pictures to accompany them!

(image from the 2009 Bridal Boudoir Affair)

4 . Wear comfortable shoes. You'll be standing almost the entire day, so you want to make sure you're comfortable.

5. Bring a pen and a pad of paper. Taking notes will help you remember what you talked about and who you spoke with. If you get a vendors business card mark a "happy face" or "sad face" if you liked or disliked the vendor - or rate the vendor with a score, from 1-10. It's a easy little trick that will help you remember who you liked!

6. Bring 1 or 2 people, but you definitely don't need to bring the entire bridal party. Having a few key people is important, but too many can make for a crowded and overwhelming experience.

(image from the 2009 Bridal Boudoir Affair)

7. Arrive early! Most of the crowds arrive mid-day. Being there early will give you more time with vendors.

8. Don't buy on the spot, but make an appointment shortly after the show. It's easy to get caught up in the moment, but sometimes those "impulse buys" will haunt you. Make an appointment with the vendor after the show.

9. Leave room for snacking, but don't go to a show starving! There are always treats, desserts, drinks and snacks at a show, but there are rarely any meals. If you tend to get hungry, bring an energy bar!

(image from the 2009 Bridal Boudoir Affair)

10. Have Fun!!! This is a once in a lifetime experience for you, enjoy the show and relax!