Wednesday, December 26, 2012

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2012 Wedding Trends


As 2012 draws to a close, i have put together a list of 2012's most popular wedding trends.

  • Lace - from trimmings to around cakes and on dresses Katherine Middleton made the lace bolero a must have for a 2012 wedding
  • Candy buffet tables: these were used outside for a summer wedding or inside in the evening. they cater for all kinds of budgets, these can be a really fun thing for your wedding and keep the kids happy too! 
  • Brightly colored bridesmaids. Gone are the pastel colors for bridesmaids.
  • Bands made a comeback! Although Djs are still a popular choice more and more of my brides are opting to add a set or two of a local band. 
  • Ritzy Ranch Weddings - The setting? A 200-year-old barn complete with long exposed-wood tables, large chandeliers and ambient lighting.
  • Soft colors (soft pinks, soft champagne colors were popular)
  • Luxe candelabras and outside chandeliers 
  • Broach/ crystal bouquets 
4 2012 trends you will most likely see in 2013: 

  • Signature cocktails
  • Bands 
  • Lace finishes/ lace gowns/ lace bouquet decor etc.
  • Luxe lighting outdoors
Mix and match via @BRIDES (Jay Premack Photography) Old Hollywood Glam peach blue burlap and lace bouquet
 Lace Wedding GownDessert bar sign Candy buffet 
rustic wedding reception outdoor chandelier





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Friday, December 21, 2012

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The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year


Winter always has this magical, intimate feel to it. The snow sparkles like glitter, the lights twinkle like a fairy forest and the warm, homey scents of cinnamon, pine trees, and gingerbread make everyone’s mouth water.
Why not ride that wonderland wave and celebrate your union in a snow castle of your own making? White, as everyone knows, is the traditional wedding color (which means is very easy to find, and very inexpensive) and with a few little extra touches you can transform your reception into a ball worthy of a snow queen!
First, use long tables instead of rounds for your guests to bring in the “family feast” feel. Use white candles of various sizes along the centers. Place them on a sparkly table runner made of white chiffon (you can find this in craft stores) to mimic snow.
To add more of the winter feel, fill small hurricane vases a quarter way full with table salt (or sugar) and place a large candle inside. The salt picks up the light much like snow would, and it’s inexpensive. Throw some tiny silver and white metallic confetti, and maybe a small snowflake ornament or two. Use all white plates, clear glasses, and (if you’re really ambitious) some silver chargers. Cover the chairs with a simple knot at the top of the same fabric as the table runners, let the tails hang to the floor.
Hang twinkle lights all around the room, use super tall vases with salt and candles as entry markers, and add some snow flakes from the ceiling. You can buy glitter covered plastic ornaments during the holidays, or bring out the kid in you and cut some from paper then spray with glitter spray. Keep them small if you cut them yourself, no more than 4in wide.
To really bring out the winter fairyland, grab some pruned branches from a tree. The more smaller twigs the better. Remove all the leaves and spray paint it white. When the white is dry, coat it lightly with glitter spray. Place your “winter trees” in a silver painted pot with silver rocks to hold it. Wrap some twinkle lights around it and you have your own enchanted forest! Add some of the smaller, but taller, twigs to the hurricanes - without the candles of course. You could even put some sparkly baubles into a few hurricanes along the center and the floor.
For the enticing smells, use wall plug ins…but go easy. If it’s a large reception hall two at either end is more than adequate. You want reminiscence, not repulsion. You can use two scents too, but not more than that. For example, the cinnamony smell to welcome guests, the piney scent when they go through the “forest” to the restroom. Use this only if the restroom and entrance are at opposite ends though. 
If you really want an over the top winter wonderland feel, take advantage of that Halloween fake cauldron in your attic. You know…the one that has “fire” in it. As cheesy as it sounds, it can be a fun project and be delightfully charming to guests. Build your own fireplace to put into a corner of the room. Just an extra touch to help with the feeling of that cozy Wonderland Castle!
-Yasmen 


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Sunday, December 2, 2012

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Winter Weddings


WeddingBlvd Tips for Winter Weddings 
#1 Stay true to who you are & what you want…
#2 Winter weddings and events do not always have to be mean white.  You can add color as part of your bridal party, flowers or just that pop, in shoes.  Shades of blue & silver can also add to that cool feel of winter.
#3 Treat your female guests to pashmina shawls - the men to scarves.  This is the perfect gift while guests are waiting for photos or the ceremony/reception to start.
#4 Always dream of a wedding or party in a ski lodge? Rent fireplaces and arrange your cocktail hour (party) to feel like old friends hanging around the lodge after a day of skiing and playing in the snow. (Did you say cocoa and s’mores…we hear you!).
#5 As well as the bars, how about something unusual  - a hot bar.  Stocked with hot cider, cocoa, coffee  and tea - and all the extra accompaniments to give it that extra warmth.
#6 After the cake or dessert, an unusual and sweet finishing touch..a mini chocolate fondue? Perhaps a s’mores station or cognac and chocolate pairings!
                             




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Wednesday, November 7, 2012

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Celebrating America

On November 6 2012, President Obama was reelected. Congratulations on earning your second term Mr. President.
I decided to share  some "red, white & blue" wedding inspiration to celebrate this win.





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Wednesday, October 31, 2012

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Top 10 Wedding Planning Myths



Myth #1: Hiring friends is the same as hiring wedding vendors.

Just because your friend is a fantastic fashion or photojournalist, doesn't mean you’ll get the same results on your wedding day. For example, an experienced photographer knows how to shoot a mix of photojournalistic action shots (getting ready, your first dance, exchanging vows) while also capturing all the must-have family and bridal party photos. Same goes for the other categories like flowers and music. Look for local vendors in your area for leads, and if money is a concern, just be open and honest about your budget from the start. If you really can’t afford a vendor, ask them for recommendations of lower budget professionals with a similar style.

Myth #2: You have to wear a white dress.
If the idea of a big white dress and veil has never appealed to you, don’t feel pressured into wearing one. Hair clips with feathers or even just a fresh flower can replace a traditional veil, and there are plenty of bridal fashion designers who have created dressed in other colors — think blush pink, dusty blue, buttery yellow, and more. You can even add color (and personality!) to a simple dress with a bold sash, bolero, or a cardigan


Myth #3: If you went to their wedding, you have to invite them to yours.

Don’t feel trapped into inviting someone just because they invited you to their wedding. It’s your day — invite the people you feel closest to. If someone assumes they’re invited, let them know up front (and sooner rather than later) that because of space or budget constraints, you had to limit the guest list.

Myth #4: A wedding planner is too expensive.
Here’s the deal: Not only can a wedding planner help keep you organized and suggest incredible never-been-done ideas, but a wedding planner can also end up saving you thousands and keeping you on track with your budget. Many planners work closely with florists, rental companies, and other vendors and often have access to industry discounts, which they can pass along to you! Not a bad deal, eh? Even if you can’t afford a full wedding planner, look into hiring a day-of planner (to take some of the wedding day stress off of you) or a wedding coordinator who can give you vendor recommendations before you start planning.

Myth #5: Going DIY will save you money.
Make no mistake — DIY isn’t always the cheapest route. Unless you have unlimited access to the supplies it takes to create your own stationery or flower arrangements, the cost of these items alone is really going to add up (not to mention the amount of time it takes to create invitations for 100!). Do your research before you start buying paper and flowers in bulk to make sure it wouldn’t be worth your while (and sanity) to simply hire someone else to do it.

Myth #6: You have to have the same number of bridesmaids and groomsmen.
So maybe he has a ton of friends, and you just have a few close girlfriends. Don’t feel like you have to hire extras to stand in for you to even out the sides. What’s important is that everyone you feel close to is a part of your day so divvy up the jobs. Make some of the guys ushers and others readers. One can even be your honorary toast-giver. If those positions are filled, that’s okay too — there’s no rule that says both sides should have the same number.

Myth #7: You have to take out a second mortgage to pay for a wedding.
Listen up — there are easy ways to save money, so don’t start your marriage together in a terrible amount of debt. It’s all about setting your priorities. Maybe you’ve always known you want a designer wedding dress, a venue with a view, or an amazing bouquet. Make a list of your splurge items, and then look for ways to save in the other categories.

Myth #8: A DJ will play too much cheesy music while a band will take too many breaks.
You’ve probably heard about it or been to a wedding where the DJ played outdated music with cringe-worthy results. Simply talking to your DJ about which songs you love and which you’d rather not hear (ever) can help guarantee a playlist that everyone will love. As for bands, you know the drill — the dance floor is packed, but as soon as they take a break, the floor clears and everyone gets bored. Instead, see whether they can go down to a 2-piece or a 3-piece set instead of popping in an iPod.

Myth #9: Wedding food always tastes bad.
Don’t assume that just because you’ve been to some weddings with less than tasty food that that’s the norm. Some of the hottest wedding catering trends involve comfort foods like sliders, French fries, and sundae bars. Plus, many catering companies are bringing farm-fresh items to the reception table with localized gourmet menus that will have you and your guests oohing and ahhing.

Myth #10: All wedding dresses are created equal.
Why do some dresses cost $500 and others $5,000? It’s all about the quality of fabric, the embellishments, the construction of the dress, and the amazing fit. In other words, those pricey dresses are made to make you look drop dead gorgeous. That’s not to say you have to go over budget to find a dress — a good bridal salon consultant can suggest dresses that fit and flatter in your price range, so rely on them to help you find the right dress.
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HAPPY HALLOWEEN!


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Saturday, October 27, 2012

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Engagement Shoots

I came across these fun & unique ideas for engagement shoots & i just had to post! 



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Friday, October 26, 2012

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Wedding Dress Shopping Tips♥

WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING TIPS 

*Shop Early*
Not that you need any coaxing, but you should start dress shopping around 8 to 10 months before the wedding. It can take up to two months to find the right gown and then four months for the dress to be custom made to fit your body. The first fitting usually happens six to eight weeks prior to “I do.” Give yourself plenty of time and keep in mind that the sooner you start shopping, the less likely you’ll feel rushed and make a quick decision that you may regret later.
*Set Your Budget First*
As excited as you are to start shopping, work out your budget first. Trust me — you’re better off not trying on gowns outside of your price range. You’ll either end up falling in love and being disappointed by every other dress you see (even if they’re just as beautiful), or you’ll blow your budget. If you do find yourself pining after a dress that’s outside your budget you can ask the designer if they can limit the beading to the bodice only and skip it entirely on the skirt or train. Or ask if the dress comes in an alternative fabric that is less expensive. Savvy savings can also be found at sample sales, where you can get discounts on past seasons’ gowns. Consider a bridesmaid or ready-to-wear dress in white: Wear your mom’s dress or surf the web for lightly used gowns. Also, remember that within your wedding dress budget, you’ll need to factor in the cost of alterations, and your veil, headpiece, shoes, lingerie and wedding jewelry, which can easily run up to $500.
*Determine Dress Code*
Take a cue from your venue and the time of day of your wedding to determine the formality of your dress code. A ball gown might look out of place on a beach but would be perfect for a hotel ballroom wedding. Also, keep practicalities in mind when choosing your dress — for example, if you’re getting married on an outdoor lawn, skip the train. Another thing to consider is religious restrictions. If you’re getting married at a house of worship, check with your ceremony officiant to find out whether there are any attire guidelines, such as being required to cover your shoulders.
*Go in With a Clear Vision of Your Style*
Do you want to be romantic, classic, elegant or glamorous? Studying these buzzwords — knowing which one describes the look you want for your wedding — will make telling your salesperson what you want a whole lot easier. Think about your everyday style as a place to start.
*Make Requests*
Just because a bridal salon carries your favorite designer, that doesn’t mean it’ll have the exact wedding dress you’ve been dying to try on. If you phone in advance and request a specific style, chances are that the salon will be able to call for a sample of that gown especially for you. So look through online gown galleries and magazines before you shop so you can give your salesperson an idea of what you want.
*Book an Appointment*
While you may get lucky and snag a salesperson just by walking in, scheduling an appointment is the only way to ensure that you’ll get a full hour of undivided attention. And many salons will only see you if you book an appointment.
*Play Hooky*
Shop during the week while crowds are at a minimum. You’ll get more attention from the sales staff if you shop on a Tuesday morning rather than on a Saturday afternoon. There will also be fewer people hogging the mirrors (hey, a little vanity is allowed!).
*Be Open-Minded*
When you’re in the bridal salon, don’t eliminate anything at first glance. Even though certain styles work best on certain body types, don’t let these “rules” narrow your search too much. It helps to first try on all different kinds of dresses and then decide which shape and style you look and feel best in. So if the salesperson brings you something she says you must try, try it — even if you’re not loving the way it looks on the hanger. Many a bride has ended up falling for a wedding gown the salesperson had to persuade her to try on.
*Shop With a Supportive Entourage*
Limit your shopping partners to one or two of your closest friends to help you start your search. This way you don’t have too many ideas clashing and feel pressured by others’ opinions. Your entourage should also have a very clear understanding about your goal and your bridal style and budget. Also consider taking one solo trip to the bridal salon first to form your own opinion about what you like.
*Buy a Dress That Fits Now*
Even if you’re planning on dropping 15 pounds before your wedding, your body type isn’t going to completely change just because you started swapping cookies for carrots. So you’ll want to buy a dress that fits your body the way it is now. It’s a lot easier (and cheaper) to have a dress taken in than it is to add extra fabric to a gown after the fact. Wedding gowns can run small too, so don’t be alarmed should your final size measurement jump up a number or two. The store will measure your bust, waist and hips. After the final fitting, make sure that the hem (if it’s a full-length gown) skims the toes of your shoes, you can move comfortably, the gown stays in place as you move and there’s no obvious wrinkling, bunching or pulling.
*Read the Fine Print*
When you order your gown from a bridal salon, it’s important to triple-check the contract (yes — you even need a contract for your dress). Check to ensure that you don’t end up with the wrong size or color, and get the designer name, style number, measurements, delivery date, number of fittings included in the price, price of the gown and deposit amount in writing.
*Bring Your Accessories*
While most bridal salons will have undergarments and shoes on hand for you to try on while choosing your gown, you should still come prepared with a nude bra and underwear for the fittings. Also bring along shoes in a similar height to what you plan on wearing at the wedding so you can see how the dress falls with your heels, as well as other accessories like your veil, headpiece, gloves or cover-ups to get an idea of your whole wedding look.
*Sleep on It*
Even if you fall in love with it, you shouldn’t buy the first dress you try on. Give yourself a chance to look at all your options by shopping more ­­ and elsewhere ­­ before you buy. Once you’ve found your wedding gown, take a day to be absolutely sure it’s “the one.” Since bridal gowns are custom-made, most salons put a no-return policy in their contracts.
**Trust Your Instincts**
If you have to be reassured that the dress looks great on you, it’s probably not “the one.” Can you really see yourself walking down the aisle in this gown? If not, take it off and move on. You, better than anyone, know what style you’re looking for and what features you want to highlight. Be vocal about your vision, your favorite assets and your trouble spots when consulting with the salon attendants. When it’s the right one, you’ll know — you probably won’t want to put on anything else. Have some tissues handy, since it’s probably going to be an elating and emotional moment!


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Sunday, October 14, 2012

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Bride Tips



  1.  Work out your budget, and stick to it or you will fall in love with all the things you can’t have!
  2.  Think about your guest list – who do you really have to have, who would you like if possible and who will be happy with an evening invite. It will make finding a suitable room at your prospective venues much easier if you have a minimum number
  3. Make a list of things you think you want and don’t want in a venue – there is no point looking around a venue for a candle lit wedding breakfast if they don’t allow candles
  4. Make a list of all the parts of the wedding package or items that you will want on your day, you don’t want to be paying for elements you don’t want
  5. Ask for a bespoke quote based on your items so you can see the full costs of your plans and don’t be afraid to ask to have it re-calculated if you want to add items in or take them  out
  6. When trying on your dress sit down – you need to be able to eat that amazing 3 course meal you have paid for 
  7.  Try the food at your venue, you cannot be expected to pay for food for all your guests without having either eaten in the restaurant or had a menu tasting
  8. Tailor your menu to what you want, you have every right to change it to make it perfect for you and your guests tastes
  9. Don’t stress about the weather! If the forecast isn’t bright sunshine then be prepared to work with it and have fun – have some pretty umbrellas at the ready for some fun photos – your photographer doesn’t need to stay dry!
  10. Remember that if you are having a civil ceremony or partnership, that the venue is not allowed to book the registrar. You should contact them as soon as possible to book this directly with them, without them it is not legal!
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Saturday, October 6, 2012

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My Week On Pinterest :)






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Monday, October 1, 2012

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New Facebook Page :)

If you like my posts, my inspiration & my blog please head over to https://www.facebook.com/WeddingBlvd 
& "like" my page it would mean a lot to me :) 
and also my twitter is https://www.twitter.com/weddingblvd
 Thank you all. xo 
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♥Breast Cancer Awareness Month♥

In Honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month 
 
 

To all of those fighting, and the beautiful 
angels who now watch over us
Feed your faith and your fears will starve to death.  ~Author Unknown









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Happy October 1st!

Happy October 1st! 
Here are some Fall/Halloween wedding inspirations to start your October off right! :) 

 
 
 






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