Rianne's Bridal: Insider tips

BRIDAL TRENDS OF 2012

2012-01-26T14:26:00.000-08:00

Bridal gown fashion! Ahhh, my favorite topic in the whole wide world! Ever evolving, sometimes surprising, and always inspiring is the input of our brides. The influence they have on the gowns we carry and design, is priceless and who better to use for your design focus groups? With Idaho usually being slightly behind the national trend on style, I was surprised to see how right on the girls were in what they envision for their perfect dress in 2012. Classic, sophisticated, elegant. These are the top 3 words from our brides when we asked them to list words they would use to describe they way they look on their wedding day. Here are Rianne's Bridal top trend prediction for 2012:

10. LACE, LACE, LACE!!!
What says classic and elegant better than lace? The correct answer is absolutely nothing. Whether it's little touches of lace in the cap sleeve, or a full fledged lace gown, this classic trend is sure to be a hot topic at bridal consultations in 2012! And make no mistake, this is not your grandma's doilies. We are talking unique gorgeous fabric that will have even the most modern brides looking on with envy.

9. COLOR:
More and more brides are going for the color this season. Instead of the traditional oyster or champagne, we see brides asking for a more tan and blush tone in their gowns. With these rich gorgeous colors flattering all skin types, the bridal industry is seeing more color this season than we have ever seen!

8. ILLUSION NECKLINE and... BACK LINE!
You know the old saying less is more? Well this is absolutely true this season with the comeback of the oh so sexy illusion neck and back! Think strapless with a sexy peekaboo effect. Sheer netting or gorgeous lace, the illusion trend is elegant, sophisticated, and gives a sex appeal that can not be achieved with just a strapless gown.

7.FRINGE:
Fringe is all over the bridal runway this season bringing a little boho chic to the bridal world. Understated or in your face, this new trend is a unique beautiful detail to a bridal gown.

6. PLUNGE:
The oh, so sexy plunge in the front and back are making another stunning comeback. Sexy and inspired by the red carpet, this look is for the seductive bride. Keep in mind, if you are going to plunge in the front or back, a strap of some sort is almost always necessary!

5. DISCO BLING
A huge buzz word in the industry this season. For the bride that wants to sparkle on her special day, the disco bling is the way to go! Over the top bead work that tells the world, I AM HERE! Overall sparkle is for the bride who refuses to be anything less than fabulous on her day!

4. CAP SLEEVE:
The cap sleeve is hitting critical mass this season. With so many girls tired of the same old strapless gown, the cap sleeve offers a stunning alternative. With the ability to elongate the figure and add a unique quality to any gown, the cap sleeve will be huge this season. BONUS: Ask your boutique if the cap sleeve can be customized. Many designers will add/remove beading on the sleeve, change the width and often time make them removable!

3. SLITS:
SEXY,SEXY,SEXY! Inspired by the high slits all over the red carpet, this fashion forward trend is making it's big debut in the bridal world this season. A unexpected but pleasant surprise this shows off the brides gorgeous gams! TIP: Ask your boutique or designer if the slit can be made lower, if you feel it is too high for comfort. I also know that many of the designers will put an invisible zipper in the slit so you can walk down the isle modest, and have your guy unzip the slit during the garter toss!!!

2. CAPLETS
First came the stole, then the shrug, then the bolero...Now we have a beautiful take on this classic look: the caplet. With designers getting more creative on these stunning pieces, the caplet gives the fashion forward bride a way to get the strap feeling, with the freedom to remove and go strapless whenever she pleases!

AND OUR NUMBER ONE TREND THIS SEASON.............................................................................

1. CORSET GOWN:
The designer market took a little longer to catch on to this trend, but now that it has made it's bang on the runway, I believe it is a trend that is here to stay...for a very long time! This style gives any size bride the beautiful hourglass silhouette every girl wants. Making the boobs look big and the waist look small, what else could a bride ask for? This corset look gives the bride both a sweet and sexy feel on her wedding day and the best part? Alterations are usually minimal with a corset gown. The timeless elegance of the corset bodice makes this Rianne's Bridal # 1 pick for the 2012 bridal season!

-Sarah Hedlund
President/Designer
Rianne's Bridal
8206 N Government Way
Hayden, ID 83835
www.riannesbridal.com

Not your typical bridal fashion show...

2011-04-21T10:30:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for the bridal fashion show of the year? Well mark your calendars because Rianne's Bridal's 2nd annual fashion show is set to kick off on May 21st at 7pm. Join us for a night of food, fashion and fun! Come mingle with the top vendors in the industry and enjoy some drinks and an amazing show.

After party following at Ciao Mambo. Call today to reserve a seat 208-635-5170.

Rianne's Bridal Spring Fashion Show

2011-04-20T11:24:00.000-07:00

Join us May 21 at 7 pm for our annual spring fashion show -

Brides bring your friends and family to enjoy a fun and exciting evening of gowns, shoes, bridesmaid attire and so much more. Including dress designs by Rianne {Owner of Rianne's Bridal} Casablanca, Anjolique and more...

Many vendor will be joining us so get ready for an exciting evening.

All About You Weddings and Events - http://www.allaboutyouoccasions.com/
Rayla Kays Photography - www.raylakayphotography.com
Makeup by: Tiffany Williamson

BUYING EARLY= BETTER CUSTOMER SERVICE

2010-12-18T16:36:00.001-08:00

Coming off a busy summer last year and heading into busy bridal season next month, I thought I would take a few minutes to discuss the bridal gown time line. For most brides, reading in a bridal magazine that your gown should be ordered 6-9 months before your wedding can come as quite a shock! Without being educated and knowledgeable about the school of thought behind this, it can also make the bride feel like she is being rushed...something we all hate. While all shops do things a bit different, and work with different designers who have different policies, a few things remain true. Ordering a gown from a bridal boutique is a little different than purchasing from a large chain. In shops like mine, each special order gown is made from scratch when the order is put in. Whether you are ordering a "custom gown" or a "couture" gown (CUSTOM: your measurements are compared to the designers size chart and a size is picked. COUTURE: Your gown is cut to your specific measurements) the gown is ordered in your color, your length your size and any changes that you want to make in order to make the gown perfect for you. This process takes time. From the material ordering to the hours and hours of handwork done for the beading...this isn't something that is done overnight. So, keeping in mind that the production time alone, depending on the designer, can take anywhere from 4-6 months, it becomes clear why purchasing early is important.

WHY ORDERING EARLY MEANS BETTER SERVICE:

What I would like to dive a little deeper into is the customer service aspect of early ordering. Wedding planning is stressful, and trust me...worrying about whether your gown will be ready in time, is a stress you and I both would like to avoid. The fact of the matter is while it is rare...mistakes happen. If a glitch happens during the gown process, making sure there is plenty of time for the shop, the designer, or the producer to make things right, is critical. The bridal industry is customer service driven, and myself and my fellow bridal boutique owners and designers always strive to make sure each bride is happier than she could have imagined on her wedding day. We always work hard to make sure we satisfy each bride. When a bride procrastinates on ordering and waits until the last minute...this becomes difficult. We need enough time to make sure we can send the gown back and get a perfect one, in the event a bride isn't satisfied. We need enough time to give UPS, Fed Ex and other shipping companies room in the event there is a delay, for instance. We need enough time for alterations, which generally take about a month. We need enough time to make sure your gown is perfect and you are stress-free in the months leading up to your wedding!

In the end, our main goal is to provide all of our brides, bridesmaids, grooms, and groomsmen with AMAZING customer service, and the more time we have...the more ability we have to accomplish this!

-Sarah Hedlund
President/Designer
Rianne's Bridal
8206 N Government way
Hayden, ID 83835
208-635-5170
www. riannesbridal.com
sarah@riannesbridal.com

Who do I Bring Dress Shopping???

2010-10-22T13:42:00.000-07:00

This question seems to have an obvious answer at first. Mom, sister best friend/s? All come to mind right away, but before you get your bridal gown "entourage" together, take a moment to ask yourself some key questions.

Opinions are something we all have, and for the most part our opinions are well-intended. When it comes to making a huge garment purchase, however, making sure you have people who care more about the smile you have coming out of the dressing room after putting on "the dress", is much more important than someone who will give their "honest" opinion no matter what. Let's face it, we all want everyone to think we look amazing in our wedding gown. One thing you need to consider however, is this: Is it more important that I love my dress and feel beautiful in it, or is it more important that everyone gives me their honest opinion? Now really think about this... I have had many a bride in my store that come out looking radiant in a gown grinning ear to ear, only to have the mother or maid of honor rain on her parade with a comment like " I don't like the ruffles", or "it makes your hips look bigger than they are". Even very opinionated brides can hear this, and settle for another dress, simply because they respect their family/friends opinion and know they are giving their "honest" opinion. Now when looking in the mirror, the bride see's only the ruffles, or her hips and the dress she loves is no longer an option.

I hate hearing friends and family make statements like "I'm just being honest". The biggest problem with this, is the same thing that applies to all fashion in general. Regardless of style, a bridal gown only has to meet one requirement, and that is: MAKE THE BRIDE FEEL STUNNING! Does the bride "FEEL" beautiful in it? When woman feel comfortable and beautiful, we could wear a gunny sack and still look fabulous. It's the attitude, the "swag" so to speak, is what makes a gown...the one!

When picking an entourage to take gown shopping ask yourself a couple questions:

1. Is having someone come with me who will give me their "honest"opinion (even if the dress makes me feel like a million bucks,) really a good thing? Or is bringing someone who can read me and know when I feel good about myself a better option? 2. Do I care so much about the opinion of the people coming with me, that I may not pick the gown I love because of it?

My recommendation on picking a group of gals?

1. First time out shopping either go alone, or take one or two people with you max. Visit 3 bridal shops tops. More than 3 stores makes the process exhausting and confusing. 2. Narrow your favorites down to no more than 3 gowns before you bring more people for opinions. 3. Make it clear to your group that you appreciate their opinions, but in the end it is YOUR decision and you mean no offense if you end up loving one that they don't particularly care for. 4. Regardless of silhouette, neckline, color,or length...choose the gown that you "feel" fabulous in. I promise that if you feel beautiful and confident, you will radiate beauty in a way that is impossible to achieve if you aren't comfortable.
Good luck in your shopping! If you are a summer 2011 bride...it's time to start narrowing down your choices and ordering your gown!!!

Sarah Bligh
President/Designer
Rianne's Bridal
8206 N Government Way
Hayden, ID 83838
208-635-5170
Book appt at :sarah@riannesbridal.com

3.

Is a custom designed gown affordable?????

2010-06-04T11:30:00.000-07:00

With the launch of my new line "Designs by Rianne" I am starting to deal with a whole set of questions that I had never dealt with before. The biggest dilemma most girls are having is the fear of a custom gown costing them a fortune! Like in everything, having something customized is always a little pricier, however, I think it will pleasantly surprise girls to know that having a customized gown can still be affordable! Well that is... if you do it right. The truth about bridal gowns is that once you hit the mid level gown (price range $1000-1500) there is not much difference between that and a $10,000 gown. After the mid level range, you start paying more for the name and the experience than anything else. While there is a lot to be said for the Amsale, Angel Sanchez, Carolina Herrera etc... gown AND experience...most gals in my neck of the woods, don't have that option. At my shop, the clientele generally are hard working ladies, that are working over time so they can afford that $1500 dream gown for their special day. They tend to be much more conscious of how hard they worked to save a dime, and buying a $10,000 dress is not only not an option, it's not practical ( let's face it, $10k could be a down payment on a house). But, what happens when these girls shop, shop, shop and can't find a gown that they want to put that hard earned money into? This is where my new line comes into play. With my line ranging from about $1000-1500.00 I can help you come up with the perfect gown for your wedding day at an affordable price. When you come in and see the quality and unique style of this line, I know you will be pleasantly surprised! Don't like the neckline or silhouette, but love the beading and fabric? Let me sketch you up the perfect combination of all the elements you love! You won't be disappointed and that is MY personal guarantee! DISCLOSURE: If I get a celebrity to wear my gown at some point, and my name gets out there...prices are subject to change LOL!!!! :)

-Rianne

Year in Business/Fashion Show

2010-05-12T13:15:00.000-07:00

Rianne's Bridal is celebrating a year in business! Please come join us May 22nd at 7pm for a fashion show, featuring a new line "Designs by Rianne". To RSVP please email sarah@riannesbridal.com or call 208-635-5170

BOW-CHICA-WOW-WOW

2010-02-19T10:40:00.000-08:00

I didn't have much confidence when one of my brides suggested I try the Victoria Secret stick on gel bra. First off, she is a negative zero and tiny on the top, where as I am (ahem) never mind what size I am, but let's just say I am a bit more blessed than she is. The annoyance with the strapless and low back fashions out there, is that as sexy and gorgeous as it looks, it instantly goes trailer park if a bra strap is showing. Occasionally, that Carrie Bradshaw "I just don't care" strap showing is something you can get away with, but as a rule...cover it up ladies. Ok, now that I am done with my ADD moment, let's get back to the topic at hand: The VS stick on bra! If you are an A, B or even small C cup and you have a gown that requires minimal bra strap showing this is the go to undergarment. The gel cup molds perfectly to your own curves, it sticks like super glue and it has a little pull string in the middle that let's you decided the amount of cleavage you want to show. Go from "wow", to "shazzam" to "Bow-chica-wow-wow" in a single pull of the string! (small disclosure: it claims that you can re-use this up to a 100 times, I say 5 times tops and it will be toast). Regardless, for the wedding day and sexy honeymoon dresses, it will be your favorite accessory! For those of you blessed with fabulous D cup size and up...this isn't going to work. Unless modern technology has "enhanced" your already fabulous self...in that case, it should work just fine. The trick to finding out if it's going to work before you dish out the money? Try the pencil test! Hold up one of the ladies, put a pencil underneath. If the pencil stays, you probably aren't going to benefit from this bra. If the pencil falls out...head to Victoria's Secret and purchase this amazing find!!!

-Rianne Bligh

Mistakes and mishaps make the memories!

2009-12-12T11:42:00.000-08:00

So far December has been a month of stress, tears and mini freak out sessions for my brides, which can only mean one thing...Summer wedding planning is in full swing! With the pressure to start getting serious about your gown purchase, finding your venue, getting the flowers and food, and the Christmas holiday to boot, no wonder so many of my girls are starting to feel a bit overwhelmed!

I am going to share with you a couple of tips on how to ensure this is a joyful experience filled with great memories, instead of something you just want to get over and done with!

1. Mistakes make memories! The sooner you realize that there is no way EVERYTHING is going to be perfect the better off you are going to be. Anytime an event like this is being planned, problems are going to arise, and understanding that and being flexible is going to make this a lot less stressful. Every time I talk to a happy couple, the goof ups at their wedding are always the funny memories they talk about. Perfection is boring!

2. If you can't afford it and it is going to create strain on your relationship...don't do it! Can't afford that ritzy hotel as a venue? That 8 tier cake not quite fitting into your budget? There are so many affordable ways to cut costs now days while wedding planning, so take advantage of that. There are unlimited resources online such as theknot.com that have so many affordable, yet classy options for the couple who is trying to be money smart ( and who isn't these days?)!
Use your resources and research. Put your money into the things that mean the most to you, whether it's the gown, the venue, or maybe the food. On everything else, find creative ways that are more cost effective.

3. Remember, the wedding is a day...the marriage is a lifetime. As women, it is easy to get wrapped up in the "wedding planning" and let's face it...we have a tendency to go a little bonkers at times. Make sure you keep on the forefront of your mind that while this is a fun and memorable event, it also is just a small part of the big picture! You are about to start a life together with the person you love! Don't let the stress of wedding planning rob you of the enjoyment you should be feeling about finding the right person, and making a commitment to build your life together! At the end of the day, that is what matters...everything else is just icing on the cake!

Gown shopping 101

2009-11-03T13:39:00.000-08:00

Wedding gown shopping is intimidating. What is going to look good? What size am I? How much is this going to cost me? When should I purchase my gown? Am I picking the right one? For all you brides-to-be these questions are nothing new, and probably the cause of a little bit of anxiety and stress in your life. Like anything in life the more you know, the less intimidating things seem. I am going to answer all of these questions, and give you a few tips that I know you will find useful in your search for the "THE GOWN"!

Q: What type of gown is going to look good on me?

A: This question is one of my favorite! I love it when brides ask this because so many come with the assumption that their body type can only carry a certain style. The best advice I can give any bride is this: THROW OUT THE RULES AND TRY ON EVERYTHING!!! 90% of the time you will end up falling in love with something you would have never picked off the rack. You absolutely can not get an idea of what the gown is going to look like on you, by looking at magazines or looking at gowns on the rack. You have to try them on and find out for yourself what looks good and what doesn't. Worse case scenario...you hate it! Oh well! Best case scenario: you find out a style you never would have tried on, looks amazing on you!

Q:What size am I going to be?

A: First of all, if you are a size 8 street clothes, don't go gown shopping expecting to be that same size. Many designers go off of "old world" measurements. Simply put, this means that if you are a size 8 normally, you will most likely be fitting in gowns that are 10's 12's. This is important to know before you start hitting the stores, because we all know what fitting into something 2-4 sizes bigger can do to our self-esteem! Just expect to fit into sizes larger than you are use to and don't think about the numbers. It's about what flatters your figure...not a number some designer puts on a tag!
Q: How much is this going to cost me?

A: Bridal gowns are expensive. To say anything other than that just would not be honest. That being said, you can find a beautiful custom made gown for anywhere between $500-$2000.00. The average ticket in my store is $1000.00 and the quality is absolutely amazing! Most bridal shops require half down to order the gown. Some shops require you make monthly payments until the gown comes in, some just require you pay off the balance when the gown arrives.

Q: When should I purchase my gown?

A: Most gowns that are special ordered take a good 4-6 months to get in from the time you order. This is because each gown is especially made for each bride, and all the beading and sewing is hand done. The rule of thumb is you should have your gown ordered 6-9 months before your wedding date. This gives time for the dress to arrive and the bridal shop to make sure it came in flawless. It also factors in time for alterations, which in most cases is a must!

Q: How much do alterations cost?

A: Alterations vary dramatically based on the style of gown and how much altering needs to take place. Generally it is a good idea to factor a good $300 dollars into your budget for alterations. Be VERY careful and specific when you are talking to sales reps about gown pricing. If they say it's a $500 gown, but they require you to do alterations through them and your alterations end up being $300...it's really an $800.00 gown! Get very detailed when you are asking alteration pricing. If they say hemming is $40, they usually mean for the first layer and each layer after that is additional etc... It can add quickly up and be a large unexpected cost if you don't communicate thoroughly. Ask your sales consultants if they carry any designers that will do custom measurements for you. Some designers will take special measurements for a very minimal fee! This can end up saving you hundreds of dollars on alterations!

Q: How do I know if I am picking the right dress?

A: I tell all my brides the same thing when they are nervous about making a final decision. First, don't rush it! Get online and research all the bridal shops in your area, go to each one and try on as many as you can! If you narrow it down to a few that you love, take a week or two to think. One gown will end up popping into your head more than the others! This is a good sign that it is the one for you. Don't ever let anyone make you feel pressured. This is a big decision, and most importantly this is YOUR decision. Take your time, relax and enjoy the process!

Rianne Bligh , owner of Rianne's Bridal in Hayden Idaho. Call 208-635-5170 or email at sarah@riannesbridal.com

A woman's right to shoes???

2009-08-29T16:30:00.000-07:00

I recently had a very unfair question posed to me. Paraphrased it went something like this; "Would you give up your shoe collection to be with Barry Manilow?". Now, let me start by saying, Barry Manilow is the love of my life. He and I will be together and live happily ever after as soon as he meets me and I help him realize he no longer likes men. That being said, I have to be honest and say that when that question was asked I actually found myself hesitate. After taking some time to think about it, I have decided that I wouldn't give up my shoes for Barry, and that can mean only one thing. The true love of my life must indeed be...my shoes! Acknowledging that this could be viewed as somewhat pathetic by some, I took a long hard look at what has at times been referred to as my "addiction". Feeling pangs of guilt upon the realization that my shoe collection could pay for a nice down payment on a house, I decided it was time do take control. So, I am changing my lifestyle. I have yet to buy a pair of shoes this week (a huge improvement) and although it is killing me, I am trying to use self control. I am staying out of the shoe department in stores, and I have even taken myself off the sample sales email list at Bergdorf Goodman. I'm not sure how long this is going to last, but I am determined to see if I can stay strong!

For those women out there that can still buy and believe in "a woman's right to shoes" as I do, Rianne's Bridal in Hayden has amazing Benjamin Adams designer shoes that are exclusive to my shop. Not in the market for bridal shoes? Not to worry! These dutchess silk shoes with swarovski crystals and built in Nike air technology,are straight off the runway designs that are available in any color. Come check out the Lopez, a design that will sure to make you the envy of your social circle! If I can't buy, at least I can help other women look fabulous.

Questions: 208-635-5170

www.riannesbridal.com

Beware the Groomzilla!

2009-08-26T16:43:00.000-07:00

If you are engaged, know someone who is engaged or have lived anywhere besides under a rock, you most likely are familiar or have at least heard the term "bridezilla". While I have encountered my share of these difficult to please brides, I am noticing a very interesting trend. Introducing...the groomzilla! Similar to the bridezilla, this special breed of groom is picky, bullheaded, cantankerous and completely temperamental. These men have an opinion on everything, from the venue to the flower colors. While they pose a challenge each and every time they walk through my door, I tend to be inexplicably intrigued by these men. What has changed in society to get us to a place where we have "groomzillas"? Is it the metro-sexual wave that has swept the country over the last decade? Is it that fact that so many couples are marrying later in life, and therefore footing the bill themselves instead of the traditional parents of the bride paying? Whatever the case may be, men are definitely wanting to be involved in the decision making process of the wedding, more now than ever. After years of brides brides pulling out their hair stressed and wishing their grooms-to-be would get involved in the planning, all I have to say is this: When you are fighting with your man over table linens and tuxedo colors the old saying comes to mind...Be careful what you wish for!

My eyelashes make my butt look smaller!

2009-08-05T11:45:00.000-07:00

I tried to just say no. First my mother, then my cousin, then my little sister. It was only a matter of time until I bit the dust and apparently, when I fall...I fall hard! What kind of peer pressure did I succumb to? Maybe the greatest, affordable beauty trend in recent history, the eyelash extension! I have been reading fashion magazines for as long as I can remember. From Glamour and Vogue, to Cosmo and Elle, there isn't a fashion magazine that I haven't read. Needless to say, I have read countless adds claiming to be the answer to my eyelash woes and I am left disappointed with less money in the bank each and every time. Tired of searching for the perfect mascara that is going to turn my eyes into the "sex kitten" eyes we all want, I decided drastic times call for drastic measures. On the day of my appointment, I have to admit I had a little anxiety. Is it going to hurt? Am I going to come out looking like Tammy Faye Baker? Are they going to fall off and feel weird like fake eyelashes always do? Two hours later, all my anxiety driven questions were answered. No, it definitely didn't hurt in fact I couldn't even feel them. No, I didn't look like Tammy Faye, but I did have the sex kitten eyes I have always wanted. The day following the appointment people kept telling me my eyes looked beautiful, but no one directly attributed it to the lashes. They framed my eyes and looked so gorgeous and natural but I didn't have to wear mascara! This, I decided is a Godsend and an absolute must for every woman out there. Two weeks later, however, being more of a bigger is better personality, I decided to go back and get even more. See my philosophy is go big or go home, if I am going to have lashes...I AM GOING TO HAVE LASHES. I want people to notice! The wonderful thing about extensions is the ability to customize them to fit not only your face, but your personality as well. Now I have "full drama" lashes and I couldn't be happier. I can swim, wash my face, shower and they stay on and look fabulous all the time! Whether you are more natural or you want full on glamour, Studio Essentials salon in Hayden can have you looking your best! Men won't be able to resist you, and woman will be jealous. If you are a bride, this is the perfect solution to not only wedding day mascara blunders, but think of how wonderful it will be to wake up every morning of your honeymoon looking sensational!

Go check out Liz or Sophie at Studio Essentials and don't forget to tell them I sent you! (208)-762-9685

Recession brings a new love for old, hollywood glamour!

2009-07-30T13:48:00.000-07:00

Ladies, what is it about a bad economy that makes us crave the glitz and glam? Look back through fashion history and one thing proves to be true decade after decade: a bad economy equals a want and desire for over the top glamour! From vibrant hues and demanding silhouettes, to daring accessories and risque bustiers, a bad economy means lots of over the top trends, and wedding gowns are no exception. In a recession, we all tend to tighten up on our every day expenses. We no longer have the luxury of the weekly manicures or the morning Starbucks. All of the sudden we are only spending money on the necessities and the pampering comes to an abrupt halt. So, naturally when it comes time to pick out our wedding gown, we are drawn to the adversary of frugal... timeless glamour! We long to be taken back to the days of Grace Kelly and Rita Hayworth. The sophisticated glamour that makes us feel womanly, sexy, and transcends time. As a bride you get to do just that! While the rest of the country is pinching pennies and being practical, brides get an excuse to let loose and be a little self indulgent. On your search for the perfect gown remember: Your wedding day is a once in a lifetime event, and one you can't go back and re-do. Allow yourself the freedom to choose the gown of your dreams, guilt free!

I AM IN LOVE

2009-07-24T13:56:00.001-07:00

I am incurably smitten. I have found the love of my life and this one doesn't leave the toilet seat up or become a zombie the second "Sport Center's" intro music comes across the television. No ladies, I haven't found the perfect man. I have however, found what I think is one of the hottest trends in bridal fashion and until Mr. Right comes along, it will have to do. So, let's start talking pockets! Although this trend was introduced a couple seasons ago it is back with a vengeance in the 2010 collections. What is it about pockets that seem to have us so enamored? The fresh, flirty, feel that the pocket gives your wedding gown is not only fashionable, but very practical. Brides don't have the luxury of carrying a purse with them down the isle and the pocket is the perfect solution. It is ideal for carrying your small items such as lip gloss, mints, tissue etc... This is a trend that keeps carrying over from season to season and I expect it to stay around for quite some time! (Bonus: the pockets give another posing option in pictures!)

THROW OUT THE RULES!!!

2009-07-16T11:33:00.000-07:00

Before you read any further, I want to make sure each bride reading this understands one thing: Yes there are hot trends, yes some styles are more popular than others, and yes everywhere you look, you will find rules about what your body type should and shouldn't wear. My own personal rule is this: There are no rules! Throw out everything anyone has told you about what looks good on you, what you need to stay away from etc...and I promise you, your search for that perfect gown will become a lot more fun and exciting! How many times have you heard that a petite bride can't wear a ball gown? Curvy girls can only wear a-lines? If you have broad shoulders you can't wear strapless??? My question is this... who says? We are right in the middle of a unique time in bridal fashion. Designers are starting to use silhouettes and fabrics that don't follow the rules, and it's time for brides out there to take advantage of that!

Last week a beautiful bride, Shelley, came in my shop ready to try on gowns. During the consultation she talked about gowns she had tried on at other bridal shops. She was looking at mostly A-line gowns because she had a small waist and larger hips and didn't want to draw attention to her lower half. As we were talking I asked her what type of clothes she wears when she is at work, when she is out with her girl friends etc... What shocked me was that in her every day life, she loves to show off her curves! She is proud of her booty and described it as one of her "favorite body parts." So why, sitting here in my shop, could she only talk about covering it up? Turns out that she, like many brides, hit the internet, read all the magazines and thought that the rule was if you have a big booty, cover it up! The problem with this type of thinking is there is no cookie cutter bride. Maybe some brides are self conscious and want to cover up. Others, like Shelley, love their curves and want to show them off. She opted for a gorgeous mermaid style that has a broach right under derriere, to accentuate it! Shelley felt sexy and glamorous and most importantly, the dress she chose reflected her personality!

You can use Shelley's experience as you start on the hunt for that perfect gown. Wether you are conservative, trendy, preppy, or want to show it all off...there is a perfect gown out there for EVERY bride. My advice is keep an open mind, try every style out there, throw out the rules, and most of all, buy whatever gown makes you feel fabulous!

Sticker Shock...

2009-07-06T16:43:00.000-07:00

Let's face it, most of us wish we could have a wardrobe like the stars. Unfortunately, especially in today's economy, Walmart and Payless are a little more realistic. So no wonder when it comes to bridal gown shopping, the majority of brides out there suffer from what I like to call..."sticker shock". The very technical definition: the freak out session we all have when we see the actual price of that gown we have been dreaming of our whole lives. For those first time brides...it's not a matter of if, you will experience it! First thing to do is take a deep breath, ask the fashion consultant for a glass of champagne and relax. Let's be honest and get it all out there in the open shall we? Wedding gowns are expensive! While there are more affordable designers, even those gowns are going to be more expensive than probably any piece of clothing you will ever purchase. The thing to remember is this: This is the most expensive, important, and emotional clothing purchase you will ever make. Take your time, don't let anyone rush or pressure you...and don't feel guilty! This is the gown that is going to reflect your individual style on your wedding day. This is the gown everyone will see in pictures for years to come. This is the gown you will tell your daughter and granddaughters about. This gown is special, and there is NOTHING wrong with being a bit indulgent...at least this once!