Sunday, November 29, 2009

How to be the girliest bride possible.

 

pretty princess.004I diss looking like a princess a lot, but what the heck is wrong with looking like a princess? answer. nothing. It just has to be done right. Much like doing a themed wedding, too much princess and things can get nasty. We like Princess Diana or Audrey Hepburn as Princess Ann, let’s let Cinderella have her carriage and clear shoes. Wow, Cinderella was totally a skank. I never really thought that through. Anyways, here are a few of my princess tips.

pretty princess.001 When looking for a princess gown, think volume...when’s the last time you saw a Disney princess in a sheath gown? Uh, never. Ball gowns are stunning, but it’s all about proportion. If you are truly petite, under 5’2”, you might think about going with a full a-line gown with a natural or empire waist to make your legs look longer. No matter what your height you will HAVE to wear heels, ok unless you are a giant, you will need to wear heels. The volume of a ball gown can really make you look wonky. So, if you don’t define your waist or give yourself some height you are gonna look like a weeble wooble. Sooooo not attractive.

pretty princess.002    Being a princess is all about shining, so sparkle is important. You want to have either glitter, beading, or shine. It’s just a part of the trend, nothing you can do to avoid it. Just try not to overdo it. Think minimalist when going with this look. Choose one thing to be overtly girly about. Think either a big pouffy bedazzled dress and minimal jewels or diva bling and a simple gown, not both. It’s all about balance. If you need help, organize your most tacky and your most conservative friend and have them both meet in the middle...Oh, and don’t tell your friends that they are tacky or conservative if you still want them to be your friends.

pretty princess.003One of my favorite designer of princess/ball gowns is Kenneth Pool, who also designs Platinum for Priscilla of Boston. Melissa Sweet and Vera Wang are also great with the style. Because you want to look like a princess, but modern, so you want to find a designer that mixes that classic ball gown shape with a tad of spunk.

pretty princess.005When dolling up princess style please, don’t over use pink. Think natural and glowing. I would use a liquid foundation, something like MAKE UP FOR EVER HD, invisible cover foundation. MAKE UP FOR EVER has been used for years by professional makeup artists. This stuff is amazing! It’s oil free and gives a med-to-full coverage that looks super natural and comes in 25 shades, from the fairest white to the darkest ebony this stuff has got you covered. For the eyes, I would use a nice palette of browns and pinks. I am and always will be in love with CHANEL’S spice eye quad. These are the most flattering shades and they are beautifully pigmented. And as always TOOOONS of your favorite lengthening mascara in true black.  For your cheeks I would use a cream blush, like NARS’ The Multiple in orgasm, the best color ever!!! This stuff will give you that perfect flush of color and a bit of highlight. This stick can also be repurposed after the wedding to be used for eyes, cheeks, and lips. For your lips, I would try and find a berry shade close to, perhaps a shade darker, than your actual lip color, that’s a good way to describe it at the makeup counter. They will know what you are looking for, if they don’t try another brand. I have very pink lips and NARS lipstick, in gypsy works well. For your nails, I love OPI’s Isn’t it Romantic or Italian Love Affair. I am also a fan of the Essie classic, Ballet Slipper. Just make sure your nails are cut short or you run the risk of looking like a real housewife of new jersey, those ladies are crazy!!!!

So, this stuff is pretty easy. Look pretty, look sparkly, look expensive, do not look like you stepped  out of an 80’s debutante ball. Doooo not go overboard. Pick your must have princess piece and that’s it.

Until we meet again, stay bridal and remember, this post is not an excuse for you to bust out a tiara, which is never acceptable...ever. Please, for the sake of fashion.

Lauren

Friday, November 20, 2009

How to walk the line of alternative wedding fashion without scaring any of your guests.

A few weeks ago I posted on gothic weddings and let me tell you, it was my favorite blog to research for so many reasons...for one, I kind of wish I had one, but there’s always a 10 year renewal, yay Morgan! and two, I find “alternative” weddings to be amazingly interesting and beautiful. Plus, they always look good in pictures. Now I am not talking about tacky vampire fangs and severed heads. I am talking about romantic gothic weddings with a bit of spunk to keep everyone on their toes.

Did you know that I was an art history major? Go figure right? Well, I stuck to mostly classes involving architecture and church art and gothic buildings were among some of my favorites. Genius, stunning buildings that are so massive and impressive that when you actually see them you may forget to breathe. I think it’s fun to see some of these buildings to help give a bit of inspiration. There is something just magical about French Gothic architecture and I think it’s pretty easy to see how this inspires the “gothic” fashion trend...it’s romantic, but kinda creepy at the same time!

goth wedding.001Finding the perfect gown isn’t just about find a dress with some black embellishments, it’s about finding a gown full of romance and mystery. Doesn’t that sound fun???? Of course it sounds fun!!!! I love romance and drama combined in a wedding dress, it becomes the kind of gown that literally takes your breath away. I’m affected by everything, so maybe it’s just me. There isn’t one specific thing I can say to help identify these gowns other than that no matter the shape they always seem light and delicate. They can be full or slim skirts, full sleeve or strapless... that’s not very good guidance, huh?  I guess, regardless of the modern aspects of the gown, some part of the gown needs to make you feel like you are looking back in time. We don’t want you to look like a bar wench complete with corset and turkey leg, so don’t go overboard.

goth wedding.002I’ve found that some designers have a flare for this style and those include the incomparable Vera Wang, but also Elizabeth Fillmore, and Melissa Sweet. I also like to check up on Reem Acra, Marchesa, Marc Jacobs, and Temperly London. These are all designers who know how to make women look beautiful and strive for innovative yet romantic looks.

goth wedding.003As far as wedding day beauty, keep things relatively simple. I would keep skin fresh and matte, no bronzers. To avoid looking washed out you can use a pretty peachy pink blush, like NARS orgasm, best color ever. I would use a product like Revlon’s HIP high intensity pigment kohl eyeliner, I would choose between the black, navy, or burgundy...all depending on your eye color or preference. Navy enhances all eye colors so keep that in mind. And false lashes on the corner of your eyes are a must, plus a healthy the dose of volumizing mascara. You don’t need any eyeshadow, but if you really want to wear it, go for highlight shadow along the arch and in the inner corner. The lips should be practically naked, either a nude gloss or a berry stain with a bit of clear gloss over it. For a bit more funk, wear dark nails, nails should be cut very short. I love Chanel’s black satin and OPI’s Lincoln Park after Dark or Lincoln Park after Midnight.

As always if you have any questions don’t hesitate to ask! Have a good story about a similar style wedding? Send it!

Until we meet again, stay bridal and don’t be afraid to take a walk on the dark side.

Lauren

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Meet Leslie and Scott-A soon to be Savannah Wedding

NIK_8742Leslie Weed and Scott Baker

Date Engaged:

May 23, 2009

Where did you meet?

Scott and I met at an Anesthesiology party when I first moved to Columbia. He was the only one there who was not an anesthesiologist and little did we know that some of our mutual friends were setting us up to meet. Shortly after that we had our first date to a winery in Herman, Missouri...and the rest is history.

How did he propose?

Scott took me to his home in Michigan City, IN for a long weekend over Memorial Day.  We decided to go to the beach (yes, a real beach on Lake Michigan) for a little relaxation after lunch one day.  Scott had packed a bag of snacks, drinks, sunscreen, and yes, the ring. We chose a spot on the beach far from the crowds of kids and families enjoying the holiday weekend.  The weather was warm and I asked Scott to give me the bag so I could get a drink and a snack, but he refused saying it contained a surprise for me.  I love surprises and it was killing me not knowing what was in the bag so I immediately started asking questions...Was the surprise something I could eat? (I was thinking chocolates) Was it one surprise or several small surprises? He responded that I could not eat it and that there were multiple small surprises. Could I have just one of the surprises now and wait for the rest later? He talked me into walking down to the water while he set up my "surprise" on the blanket, and of course I had to promise not to look back until he told me I could. When he called me back to our blanket, I found a stuffed bear holding a ring box. The next thing I knew, Scott was down on one knee asking if I would spend the rest of my life with him. I, of course, said yes and he placed a beautiful solitaire diamond ring on my finger. The multiple small surprises were the smaller diamonds flanking each side of the larger diamond in the ring.

When is your wedding date?

October 23, 2010

Why did you pick the area you are getting married in?

We visited Savannah on a business trip and both fell in love with the city.  We immediately knew this was where we wanted to get married!

Where do you reside now?

Columbia, Missouri, but we are planning to relocate to a warmer climate soon.

Anything else you would like to add?

I am a southern girl, born and raised in Alabama, and Scott is from the midwest.  Our friends from high school, college and medical school are scattered around the country and we are looking forward to bringing everyone together in Savannah to celebrate our marriage.

 

It has been so much fun planning with Leslie and Scott thus far and I know their wedding will be an affair to remember! They are such an adorable couple who share such an inspiring love. Congratulations to you both and we are so honored to share in this momentous occasion in both of your lives!

signature

Monday, November 16, 2009

Picking Your Wedding Colors-Part 3

Complementary colors are more times than not, the most chosen option for wedding color scheme picks. The true definition of complementary colors are: two colors on opposite sides of the color wheel, which when placed next to each other make both appear brighter. To give you an example of what we are talking about, take a look at the color wheel below. The arrows will show you that color’s complementary color.  (there are much more in depth color wheels online-just google search “color wheel”.) You will more than likely want to have a neutral color assist your complementary colors throughout your wedding as well. IE: grey, black, ivory, white, brown, or taupe.

REMEMBER- You are not limited to these colors, try looking at variations of each color either in more pastel or deeper in that color family. And…you can always fudge a little…after all that is what makes you and your wedding unique right? For instance, some of the hottest combinations coming up this next year is:

Turquoise, Deep Purple & Yellow

Navy Blue, Yellow & Peach

Sage Green, Light Purple & Yellow

Pastels are making a come back as well!

Your colors will define almost all of your detailed decisions regarding your wedding..so use this information and the past few wedding color blogs to help you make an informed decision! Inspiration is everywhere..you just have to look.

signature

Friday, November 13, 2009

How your favorite celebrities would dress on their wedding day.

 

It’s no secret that I love all things entertainment, it’s also not a secret that I looooove fashion. So I thought I would take a break from all things serious and play around with what some of my favorite fashionable stars would possibly wear on their big day. So obviously this is a complete subjective blog, so tell me did I get it right?

celeb gowns.001 Anne Hathaway is known for her sweet, innocent persona with a hint a crazy sex appeal. Her style isn’t far from that, she dresses with a whole lot of sophistication and a touch of whimsy and spunk. Annie is a musical theatre geek at heart, so I totally see her going all out wearing a full skirt adorned with tons of sparkle. Glitter and glitz everywhere, I see her keeping jewelry to a minimum and her hair pulled into her favorite tight chignon.

celeb gowns.002 Ashley Olsen is the coolest chick ever.  Seriously, Michelle Tanner is awesome! She has a way of dressing sophisticated yet completely bonkers and chic at the same time. It’s magical. She understands how to dress her petite frame without forgoing volume. She would wear something sleek with the ability to make her petite frame look 6 feet tall. I see her in this dress with towering midnight stilettos. I envision her with a lose updo and arms stacked high with diamond and sapphire cuffs and bracelets.

celeb gowns.003Diane Kruger is one of my favorite fashionistas. Since jumping on the scene after Troy, this German hottie always dresses sexy and out of the box. I love how she plays with masculine and feminine silhouettes, she rocks a bow tie better than anyone I know. I envision Diane as a modern princess. I love the bow detail which totally fits her fashion profile. Her shoes would be simple and crazy sexy. Accessorizing is the key, I see her with minimal jewelry, perhaps a huge cocktail ring, or maybe an intricate messy hairdo adorned with lots of sparkle. (not like the model, yikes)

celeb gowns.004 Kristen Stewart is such a little rock star, she always dresses fashionable with a ton of edge. The edge probably comes from that “I don’t give a crap” face she has glued on at all times. I love this girl! She wears just as much floaty chiffon as she does spikes and patterns, if that’s not diversity, I don’t know what is! I don’t really see k.stewart getting married, but I have a feeling that she would be ironic and quirky. I love the super short length and so does she, but forget sky high heels, how about some rocking silver Converse. The feathers, the sparkles, the shoes, plus her attitude equals super cool chick.

celeb gowns.005 Rachel Bilson is beloved by all! Do you know someone who doesn’t think she is the best dressed lady in Hollywood? I dare you to find one...then I will punch them in the face...that was harsh. I digress, she has the most perfect style and she accessorizes like a pro. The silhouettes are always clean and simple, it’s all in the way she chooses to doll it up. I see her in a bit of a retro throw back, nothing about her gown will be “ordinary.” I love the wonderful asymmetrical sleeves and the peekaboo sparkle on the bodice. The dress accentuates the midsection, and the slit gives the gown it’s bit of sex appeal. Add a pair of sassy fun, t-strap, peep toes and she is ready to marry Darth Vader.

celeb gowns.006 Rihanna is well, she is all kinds of things not appropriate for me to say on this blog, so I will sum it up with awesome. She is fearless when it comes to fashion, nothing scares her and sure she ends up looking wacky every once and a while, but it’s worth it for the times she looks stunning. Can’t you see it? Her hair swept up in one of her funky chic do’s and this giant peach pink gown against her stunning skin. I see bangles stacked up to her elbows and a pair of wicked high heels. Fabulous.

Using your own personal style to create your wedding look is the best advice I can give. You will feel comfortable and look unique, who wouldn’t want that? Hey, all the celebs are doing it...

Until we meet again, stay bridal and don’t forget to have a little fun.

Lauren

Monday, November 9, 2009

Meet Laura and Bo-A soon to be Savannah Wedding

NasserLaura Leone and Bo Hunt

Date Engaged: 10/31/2009

How did you meet?

  Kentucky Derby Weekend 2008. Bo happened to visit Louisville (where I live) for a destination bachelor party over Kentucky Derby weekend.  They (the boys) have a preference for renting large homes to host their parties because they find it easier to hang together and it is cheaper. True to form they rented a house Derby weekend.  As fate would have it, one of my then-very-good girlfriends had her house for rent online.  Guess what? They rented her house.  Upon opening the door to find very handsome and (much) younger male renters than expected, she enthusiastically shared her phone number, pointed them to some good bar hang outs in Louisville and told them “we” should all meet up later that night.  Again, as fate would have it, I met her out that night at Maker’s Mark Lounge and the boys took her advice.  With these completely unrelated choices Bowie and I both found ourselves at Maker’s Mark Lounge that fateful Thursday night.  He finagled his name and number in to my phone and the rest is, as they say, history.

How did he propose?

  On one knee, along the rail overlooking the pond at The Boathouse in Central Park.  It was beautiful, simple and heartfelt.  He tricked me into thinking we were just “taking a picture” with the leaves, water and skyline behind us.  He did mean for us to take a picture.  A picture of him on one knee proposing; but the waitress was too surprised and missed it!

Wedding Date

10/9/10.

Why did you pick Savannah? 

He wanted warm water in the Fall and I wanted charm, beauty and character (along with a little Southern comfort).  Savannah was the best city to blend all of our wedding preferences.  I love that Savannah is steeped in history and charm and he loves the coast.

Will there be anything out of the ordinary, you are incorporating into your wedding?

   We haven’t identified much yet…we will have 1 reading done twice at our ceremony.  1 Corinthians 13 will be read first in English and then in Italian (to honor my Italian heritage).

Congratulations Laura and Bo. We are so excited to share in your planning process and more importantly your wedding day!

signature

Friday, November 6, 2009

How to not regret your wedding hairstyle.

 

     Now I am not a hairstylist, but I do happen to be related to the best hairstylist in the world, my Holly Ann is the best out there! Side note: If you are located in the Atlanta area and are in need of a great cut/color/highlight let me know and I will hook you up with the salon number. Now, my brilliant sis-in-law has taught me quite a bit about color and products, so I wouldn’t say I am completely ignorant of the subject. Since very few of you will attempt to do your own hair, the best advice I can give is something my dear Holly taught me. Don’t fight what you got? Do you have curly hair? Don’t try to make it straight! Does your hair never hold curl? Hey genius! It’s not going to hold on your wedding day. Trust me, you may get away with a lot on your special day, but gravity will still prevail.

HairDo.003I have two major no-no’s for wedding hair, first, please don’t look through prom magazines for your hairstyle, don’t do tight barrel curls, don’t super curl two tendrils on either side of your face, no twisting of hair that is held with little clips, just avoid all things juvenile. Google image celebrity hairstyles, better yet, google this exact phrase “red carpet updos.” Only look at the celebrities or fashion photography and don’t even think about clicking a prom hair site. A few major celebs that are good to follow, Jennifer Garner, Jessica Abla/Biel, and Reese Witherspoon are among some of my favorite heads of hair. Secondly, please don’t super shellac your hair. Too tight hairstyles look unnatural and uncomfortable, seriously, it’s like asking for a headache. I hate hair without movement...it looks so...alien! It’s not impossible to have a sleek do that looks polished and sexy without looking like a prude librarian or a face-lifted alien. Penelope Cruz and Kate Beckinsale both rock the tight bun often, check out more of their styles.

HairDo.001HairDo.002My favorite updo’s are the messy ones. I just think they are sexy and fun, plus, they can work with every type of hair. These looks are just as timeless as a pulled back bun, but because they are supposed to be messy everyone is a little bit different...unique to you. I love that! Every single women in Hollywood has rocked this look, so there are tons to choose from.

HairDo.004I personally could never keep my hair down for an entire event. I just touch it too much and end up looking super greasy. Greasy = Hot Mess, but for those of you who can keep your mitts off, it’s really easy, determine the best state for your hair, straight, wavy, or curly and do that. You can add a little oomph by pulling an Angelina and wearing your hair half-up. She does it all the time and she is generally regarded as the sexiest woman in the world, maybe everyone should start wearing that style.

HairDo.005I want to cut all of my hair off sooooo bad, but that’s the one problem with having an amazing hairstylist in the family, they have final say on everything. So, since I can’t have amazing short hair I just wanted to let the ladies with short hair know that there are plenty of ways to style and wear short hair for an event! With short hair, you are always putting an emphasis on your face, which is the whole idea of a wedding hairstyle. You want your guests to see your beautiful face.

I hope this inspires you to choose a hairstyle that works with your hair texture and emphasizes you as a person! Yay, who doesn’t love personal expression through fashion and beauty!?!?

Until we meet again, stay bridal and steer clear of all things bouffant, crimped, and beehived.

Lauren

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Picking your Wedding Colors- Part 2 Monochromatic Wedding Color Scheme

When it comes to picking your wedding colors, there are no rules! The traditional color options might feature 3 different colors that compliment each other. Like purple, green and ivory. However, some of the most elegant and classy weddings (in my own opinion) are those with like colors, also known as a monochromatic color scheme. This option normally creates a soothing feel and effect to any atmosphere or venue. The definition of monochromatic color schemes means your wedding will feature one color and its various saturations. Examples of this would be below:monochromatic wedding colors

Keep in mind when picking your colors, that some variations might be more difficult to accommodate with flowers. Talk with your florists to make sure there will be enough options to pick from in your color scheme. I do know that blue can be somewhat daunting if you don't like hydrangeas! (Unfortunately, there aren't a whole lot of choices in the blue hues.) One of my favorite looks that we have touched on a little this year and will be even more popular this up coming year are variations' of whites, ivories, and silvers. The rule of  “no white in site except for the bride” has long gone! Take a look!

Design by Jeff Leatham white-wedding

Images Courtesy of (from L to R): Rock N Roll Bride, Floral Verde, Martha Stewart Weddings, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle Weddings

If monochromatic color schemes aren't quite for you….there are some amazing and unique color combinations that have surfaced this year. My next blog post on wedding colors will feature some of these! 

signature

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Picking your Wedding Colors-Part 1 What colors mean

Are you having trouble choosing what colors you are going to use for you wedding? From bridesmaid dresses, table decor, lighting, flowers and so much more, it is such a big decision that affects all aspects of your wedding…I know!  We look no further. The next number of posts will help guide you to making an informed decision that will help you set the perfect setting and tone for your wedding day! If you have ever taken a psychology course, then you know that colors can evoke emotion and associates with certain meanings. Hopefully, with the help of a few pictures, explanations and definitions…I’ll be able to give you the resources to make this every so important decision! 

Ashley and Dusty bought simple white vases at Ikea and had their florist create modern minimalist arrangements using bright red carnations, dahlias, and celosia with accents of viburnum berries.

 

Red is a very strong color.  It’s a hot color that is energizing and evokes a powerful emotion of passion, lust, and energy. The color meaning of red signifies a pioneering spirit and leadership qualities, promoting ambition and determination. Red is a good color to use for accents that need to take notice over other colors.


Orange is a combination of Red and Yellow. As bright and warm and inviting color, orange relates to social communication, stimulating two way conversations. The color psychology of orange is optimistic and uplifting, rejuvenating our spirit.  With its enthusiasm for life, the color orange relates to adventure and risk-taking, inspiring physical confidence, competition and independence. Those inspired by orange are always on the go! In relation to the meaning of colors, orange is extroverted and uninhibited, often encouraging exhibitionism or, at the very least, showing-off!


The four bridesmaids chose tea-length taffeta J.Crew dresses with crisscrossed spaghetti straps and buttons in the back. Marissa altered her own dress to include buttons as well.Yellow is the brightest color to the human eye. It represents youth, fun, happiness, sunshine and other light playful feelings. It is a cheerful energetic color. Yellow will evokes feelings of happiness. The color psychology of yellow is uplifting and illuminating, offering hope, happiness, cheerfulness and fun.


Simple, striking, large, glass vases were filled with geometric branches and hanging capris strings.Green is the color of balance and harmony. It represents growth, nature, fertility and renewal. Green is a relaxing color that is easy on the eye and has a healing power to it. From a color psychology perspective, it is the great balancer of the heart and the emotions, creating equilibrium between the head and the heart and relates to stability and endurance.


Blue is a cool calming color that shows creativity and intelligence.  It is a color of loyalty, strength, wisdom and trust. Blue has a calming effect on the psyche and seeks peace and tranquility. From a color psychology perspective, blue is reliable and responsible. This color exhibits an inner security and confidence.  Blue's wisdom comes from its higher level of intelligence, a spiritual perspective.


Purple combines the stability of blue and the energy of red. Throughout history purple has been associated with royalty, nobility and prestige. It creates an impression  of luxury, wealth, extravagance and power.In the meaning of colors, purple represent the future, the imagination and dreams, while spiritually calming the emotions. Purple or violet assists those who seek the meaning of life and spiritual fulfillment - it expands our awareness, connecting us to a higher consciousness.


Black is often a color used to portray something very powerful, class, elegance and wealth.  Black combined with other colors can have a very strong statement.  Black is a color that can fit into almost every design to add contrast, type, and make the other colors stand out more. Alone, black wouldn’t be as dramatic but paired with any other color in the correct fashion, it is bold, timeless and beautiful.

 


Even before she got engaged, Amy knew she wanted peonies as the dominant flower for her wedding. To help defray the cost of the pricey blooms, she mixed peonies with other flowers, like roses and hydrangeas.

Pink represents compassion, nurturing, unconditional love and understanding. It is the most romantic, affectionate and intimate, thoughtful and caring. It tones down the physical passion of red replacing it with a gentle loving energy. Pink is intuitive and insightful, showing tenderness and kindness with its empathy and sensitivity. In color psychology, pink is a sign of hope.


White is often associated with being pure, clean, fresh and good.  almost heavenly and is known for symbolizing reverence, purity, truth, peace, innocence, cleanliness, simplicity, security, humility, sterility, winter, life, marriage, and hope.

 

Color Psychology References: Wiki and Judy Scott-Kemmis Pictures: The Knot, and Real Simple.

Happy coloring!

signature

Newer Posts Older Posts Home