TATTOO OR TABOO?

I was on the phone with a friend the other day and we were talking about tattoos and brides.   She told me that she had just gotten a tattoo for her 60th birthday- WOW!   It got me to thinking about some of the brides I have worked with who have them and started me wondering how YOU feel about them.   

I remember one bride I had many years ago. She was an exquisite beauty!  She had dark red hair and alabaster skin.   She was from a well- healed family on the Main Line of Philadelphia.   And she had tattoos covering most of her body!  Her mother was visibly upset by this, but trying to be supportive of her daughter whom she loved desperately.  The bride fell in love with a lace, strapless Christos gown.   She looked amazing in it.   Mom was not so sure.   We wound up making a long sleeved version of the gown- at great expense.   The bride looked stunning on her big day and the mother was happy that the guests could not see the tattooed "sleeves" under the dress.   

Well, times have changed and tattoos are all the rage- everybody has them!   Blogs like Offbeat Bride, Broke Ass Bride and Green Wedding Shoes often have photos of real weddings where the bride has her tattoos proudly peeking out of her gown.   Of course, if you want to hide them, you can have your make up artist do that for you.   I, personally, have had brides who wanted to showcase their skin sans the art they wear on a daily basis.   How do you feel?   Will you be sporting a tattoo on your wedding day?   I would REALLY love your feedback.              

WHAT'S IN A NAME?

Yesterday, I posted on my blog at Philadelphia Wedding about the pitfalls of hiring the wrong planner. Today, I want to address the many titles that "planners" take on and the difference between planners, designers and coordinators. But, before I do, let me tell you some things to look for when you are looking for the right planner to help you navigate the journey to your most important day.

Experience Versus Education: In your quest for the right planner, you have probably read the message boards, blogs and web sites of many people. Some have years of experience, while others are new to the business- MANY others. They have stated that they have planned their own weddings and have decided that this is their dream job. They have gotten a "certificate" from a local college, association, on line or from another planner who "teaches" new planners. While those certificates are recognized as a starting place for a new planner, they don't really speak to the need for a good planner to have connections in the industry, knowledge of who is a professional with quality product and a network of possibilities for every budget and taste. These are all things that come from doing it. A good planner has years of experience with good and bad wedding professionals. They have a sense of where to guide you based on your needs and budget. And, they have a serious commitment to the difficulties and challenges of the the job "planner". Contrary to popular belief and REALITY TV, this is NOT a glamor job. It is a serious profession and not for everyone and anyone.

Associations: There are many associations connected to the industry, as well as to the catering and events industries. Belonging to these associations, while a good way for a planner to keep abreast of trends, network and enjoy the "perks" of the industry, they are not always a necessary mark of a good planner. The most important mark of a good planner is their experience, their track record and the opinions of the industry professionals that know them.

Cost: Planners charge in many ways. Some charge a flat fee for specific duties , or a percentage of the budget for full planning. Most planners will add other duties on an "a la carte" menu or as an added charge. There are other planners who have "packages". These "packages" range from full planning to day of planning. Each package includes a list of duties that will be performed. Still others charge on an hourly basis. They may combine a package with an hourly charge for additional time. Make sure you understand what is included when you sign a contract. Ask questions about what you can expect from your planner and what will be billed as an extra charge. And, before you discount a planner as "TOO EXPENSIVE", break down what is included with that planner and what an hourly rate would be or an a la carte charge would add to the initial fee. You can't always dismiss a planner based on price. Remember that this is a profession, a livelihood and a skill set that has been honed over time. And, if you have a good planner, the time involved in helping you plan your wedding is priceless.

Now, let me explain the differences in titles. This is an area that creates a great deal of confusion. So, if you understand the differences and what you can expect, it will be easier to choose the right fit for your needs.

Planner: A planner is a professional that will guide you along the path to your wedding. Assisting in choosing vendors, developing timelines and budgets, facilitating your rehearsal and wedding day. A planner will accompany you to meetings, tastings. And, a planner will help you to realize your vision. Again, you must understand what a planner charges for these duties and what is included in the initial cost and what is an extra charge. But, a planner should be your personal assistant, your advocate.

Designer: This title is self explanatory. An event designer does just that- designs your wedding. Your palette, your tablescapes, your flowers. A designer will facilitate the execution of how your venue looks on your wedding day. Many event designers have "planning" as part of their advertising. They may have a planner on staff or have a relationship with a planner. When you hire an event designer, be sure that you are also hiring someone who will follow all the aspects of your wedding and not just how it looks. And, be sure of how these firms charge.

Coordinator: Most venues have an "in house coordinator". Literally translated, this is the person in charge of the venue on your wedding day. They are an employee of the venue- not you! Their loyalty is to the venue- not you! And, their job is to see to the food and set up at the venue on your wedding day. What happens before the wedding, what happens if your have a dress disaster, a limo that is late or a photographer that doesn't show up is not their job! They are NOT your advocate. They are NOT going to handle your mother or get you down the aisle. They are there for the good of the venue. So, when they tell you NOT to hire a planner because they have it covered- don't listen. Also, beware of "day of" coordinators. What is that? How can someone have one meeting with you a few weeks before your wedding and then show up and have ANY idea how to ensure you have a flawless day? The answer is- they can't! If you are going to invest in a planner, make a wise choice and hire someone who will be involved at some level throughout your planning process.
Finally, a note to you DIY brides. While it is widely assumed that doing your own flowers, cake and favors is a great way to save money and put your "stamp" on your wedding, it may not be true! Unless you are superwoman with nothing else to do with your time during the planning process, this can be a costly and stressuful mistake! There are certain things that you should just leave to the pros! And, if you do plan to add those DIY projects, remember that SOMEONE has to implement those projects on your wedding day. So, if you decide to do your own design, do yourself a favor and hire a planner to help you. Remember, on your wedding day you can not be the florist, the baker or THE PLANNER. And,neither can your mom or your maid of honor. Invest in the insurance that is an invaluable asset to any wedding day. HIRE A PLANNER!

TRUNK SHOWS TAKE FOUR

Recently, I have had several brides who went to the source for their gowns. So, in addition to giving you the dates for some local trunk shows, I also want to let you know about two designers that you will want to visit. First, Amsale is located in New York City. You can take advantage of this trunk show from January 13-15. Contact the salon on Madison Avenue at 212- 583- 1700 for your appointment.


Also on Madison Avenue in New York, is the Vera Wang flagship store. This trunk show is going on now through January 7. To make your appointment call the salon at 212- 628- 3400.



Bridal Reflections, with three locations, has a wonderful line up of designers. Let's start in New York City with the 5th Avenue salon.

Ysa Makino- January 13-15
Boutique DeVoile- January 19
Yumi Katsura- January 20-22
Ines De Santo- January 27-29
Call for your appointment: 212-764- 3040

Massapequa
Marisa- January 6-8
Winnie Couture- January 13-16
James Clifford- January 19-30
Call for appointment: 516-795- 2222

Carle Place/Westbury
Noir by Lazaro- January 6-8
Romona Keveza- January 20-22
Simone Carvalli- January 27-29
Boutique DeVoile Veils- January 18
Call for appointment: 516-742- 7788



If you are planning to shop in south Jersey, you may want to visit Bridal Garden.

Tara Keely- January 6-8
Alvina Valenta- January 13-15
Monique Lhuillier- January 20-22
Marisa- February 3-5
Thomas Knoell - February 15
Kenneth Pool- February 24-26
Lazaro- March 2-4
Amsale- March 16-18
Watters- March 30- April 1
Jim Hjelm- April 27-29
Call for appointment: 856-988- 8188





















Wherever you plan to visit, please remember to call and make an appointment. Most salons require one and it makes you feel more special when the salon knows to expect you. And, PLEASE, don't take a busload of friends and family!!! It is very disruptive to the salon, it is VERY stressful to YOU, the bride, and you may wind up wishing you had chosen your heart's desire and not the "popular vote". If you have questions or need help, please contact me. I am always available to steer you in the right direction.

BEING AN AMSALE GIRL

Amsale Girls!
This is one bridal show that I adore! Every Sunday night at 10PM, I settle in to see Debbye and the ladies who sell these incredible gowns on Madison Avenue in New York. I love the way they all work together. I love the way they support and encourage one another and I LOVE the humanity and the sweet nature of Amsale- the genius behind this salon and these spectacular dresses.

Another thing that makes watching this show so much fun is that you can Tweet with the girls and with other fans while the show is on. Commenting on the show, finding out what is going to happen next and asking questions make the show interactive and really interesting. My favorite consultant on the show is Emily. She is a fabulous personality and she really has the perfect approach- and the most amazing patience!! As someone who spent a long time in the sale of wedding dresses, I can relate to her and I respect and admire her professional demeanor. Here is more about Emily from the people behind the scenes.
Emily grew up in Chicago, Illinois and although she has adopted New York City as her new home, she’s never quite been able to leave her Midwestern roots behind. Never the kind of girl to dream about her wedding day and the big white dress, Emily instead dreamed of working in fashion. The first dress she made was when she was 9 years old out of one of her mother’s old pillowcases. Following her passion, she left Chicago and headed to Savannah College of Art and Design to study Fashion Design.

After graduation she decided to move to New York City. She rented an apartment sight unseen from an ad in the paper, packed two suitcases and hopped on a flight to Manhattan with no job and no idea what she was going to do. After an internship with a couture eveningwear designer, a job offer came in from the last sector of the fashion industry she would expect – the bridal industry. Intrigued at the prospect, Emily took the job and dove head first into the petticoats. A short six months later she got another call, from Amsale. Emily signed on as the Fittings Manager at the Amsale Flagship Salon.

Over the next eight years she made a home at Amsale. She moved over to the Corporate Office and into the role of Account Executive for the Amsale collection. The position required extensive travel and long hours and in 2007 Emily found herself wanting to settle down. Not wanting to leave the company where she “grew up” she elected to move back to the Flagship Salon on Madison Avenue where she started her journey five years before, only this time in the role of Sales Consultant. Her move paid off both professionally and personally. She found she absolutely loved working with brides at the Flagship Salon and not traveling so much allowed her to meet her future husband! One of the most meaningful moments in her career was getting to walk down the aisle in an Amsale gown.

Emily loves her job but not just because of the pretty white dresses. Her real passion comes from the people she works with and the people she meets. Her co-workers have become her family. Each new bride is an opportunity for Emily to meet someone new and she loves getting to know their stories.

So, tune in tonight and see why this is such a great show to watch! And, read more about Amsale and her gowns in my latest post on Bridal Affairs! Enjoy the show!

ON GOSSAMER WINGS AND ENCHANTED THINGS

One enchanted evening you will be a bride. What is your dream? Could it be a glistening, floating, feminine whisper of a gown, swaying with your motion and carrying you to a time long past? A gown with a name like Dew Drop or Rhoswen or Madame Butterfly? Claire Pettibone may be the designer to capture your heart for your once n a lifetime fairy tale. Her vision of vintage charm, rolling meadows and classic art and literature make her a perfect choice. Let me share with you a select few of the glorious and special gowns that you may want to try.

Let's begin with Constance. An embroidered, ivory, cotton sheath with lace traps and silk flowers, Constance stands regal and classic in her beauty. Constance will surely make you look a royal beauty. Next, we have Emmeline. Emmeline is an ivory, cotton and lace mermaid with a ruffled skirt and jeweled flower embellishments. Emmeline is demure and sweet and wonderful in a garden of English roses. Luna will sparkle in the moonlight with her green camellias over gold lace and pearl silk. Finished with moonstones, you will glisten all the way to the alter and shimmer like the stars and the city lights. Then there is Rhoswen. Straight out of a Jane Austen novel, Rhoswen has an Empire silhouette with pink flowers and ivory tulle. A grand lady of a bygone era, Rhoswen will dazzle the guests at your country estate nuptials.

Here, Cherry Blossom is a sliver of stardust and elegance. Spun from silver and gold gossamer, this shimmering sheath is adorned with scattered crystals and will light up the room when you appear at the door. Dew Drop is a modern bride's dream of pink embroidered ombre with a bolero covered in dew drop roses. While Sparrow is a dress that will make your grandmother conger up memories of her girlhood. Sparrow has platinum handkerchief sleeves and incredible delicate embroidered and beaded flowers. And, Madame Butterfly will take you to the Far East with its embroidered tulle of gold appliques, Asian floral scroll and metallic touches. It has a kimono bodice and a detachable red Obi train. Looking to blend cultures, then glide into the ballroom glistening in this enchanting and exotic gem.























Of course, I could not show you all of these treasures without finishing them with a headpiece and veil. So, let's explore the delicate and lovely selection of veils and the magical headpieces designed to make you a vision to behold on your "one enchanted evening". Spring in Bloom is a cloud of pale green silk leaves and ivory beaded flowers on embroidered tulle. It is available in ivory or green and is the most wonderful accompaniment to many of these dresses. Vintage Bloom, made of lace and organza flowers and silk leaves embroidered on ivory or antique tulle, Vintage Bloom is as delicate as the flowers that grace its border. Imagine having it float behind you as you approach your groom. How lovely!

And, lest we forget to adorn your hair with an equally magical jewel plucked from the fairy garden. Apple Honey- pale yellow, porcelain flowers, pink leaves and rosebuds all wrapped in gold. A vintage and romantic piece to compliment a dress like Rhoswen or Emmeline. Or, Aria Vine- a floral vine with Swarovski sprinkled leaves to add glittering touches to Luna or Cherry Blossom. Finale Crown- the queen of all the pick, a Swarovski encrusted band of leaves with floral pendants and available in silver or gold. And, Bloom- Swarovski crystal flowers on a gold band with vintage green center crystals. Aria Vine and Finale Crown are two of the stunning and always dazzling designs from Enchanted Atelier for Claire Pettibone. I am never tired of looking at Enchanted Atelier and their charming collection of pretty baubles from the beauty of their nature. The enchantment and magic of Claire Pettibone doesn't end with the wedding. Oh no, more magic awaits when you arrive at your honeymoon destination. Claire Pettibone has a soft, feminine and lacy collection of lingerie to please you and your new husband. These delicate and sweet confections are sexy and will certainly cast a spell on your spellbound spouse. Slips, camis, loungewear, bras, panties and other dainty treats await you in your land of love.
Your enchanted wedding can begin and end with Claire Pettibone. So, if you want to fly away on Gossamer wings with enchanted things, visit a salon and take your enchanted wedding to the moon.

JUDD WADDELL

I LOVE Judd Waddell! I have always loved his gowns. He is a class act and this spring is no exception. The fabrics are rich, the lines are feminine and the details- gorgeous! You can find these gowns at Kleinfeld's, The Wedding Shoppe and The Bridal Garden. I just had to let you see these few dresses, now you need to find a salon near you to see them on you!




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KATERINA BOCCI

This morning in my stroll through the wedding blogs and web sites, I happened on these outrageous gowns by Katerina Bocci. I had to share! Not only are they stunningly beautiful and different, but they are made in the USA of eco- friendly materials. Katerina's gowns are innovative, bold and certainly, make a statement! Katerina uses the 100% silk organza and tulle, hand beaded lace and Swarovski trim. If you had a fantasy as a little girl about your wedding gown, Katerina Bocci may have that gown for you. You can find these gowns in limited locations across the country. but, here in this area, you can find them at Bridal Reflections in New York.





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HOT MAMAS

Mothers don't have to look like a stuffed couch anymore! Just off the runways of Bridal Market week in New York, these are just a few of the many lovely and trendy fashions for your mother to wear when she walks down the aisle at your wedding. Colors abound and fabrics are lush and flowing. From pastel to jewel- tone, there is plenty to make your mother look like a fashionista. Gone are the days when mothers of the bride and the groom had to wear crepe or heavy taffeta if they don't want to. And, no beige here!

Top left: Douglas Hannent
Top Right: Enzoani
Bottom Left: Watters
Bottom Right: Lazaro



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A PERFECT MARRIAGE

Today a little eye candy! Spring has to come soon and with it, the dreams of a summer wedding. So, I put together some lovely images of some frothy gowns and matching headpieces. Just a little inspiration for all you brides who need some help deciding how to be the most beautiful bride.
These dreamy confections are all from Amy Jo Tatum. Amy Jo combines vintage inspiration with modern touches and creates luscious and feminine gowns and headpieces that are one of a kind.

Here, the new and exciting designs of BHLDN. More comfortable and informal, these gowns are perfect for an outdoor or beach wedding. If you want something totally modern and sweet, but still want to look like the bride, then see these dresses.












Dramatic, feminine and exquisite! These are words that come to mind when I see Claire Pettibone gowns and Twigs and Honey headpieces. Together they are the perfect marriage of bridal elegance and a unique look. With a vintage feel, Claire Pettibone and Twigs and Honey will make you feel like you stepped back in time to a more romantic and ethereal era.










Finally, There is Priscilla of Boston. This beautiful ballgown with a touch of pink is a perfect dress for a warm weather wedding. Add this little veil with silk cherry blossoms from Honeycomb and you have a fairy princess look. This Melissa Sweet froth is like a cloud floating up the aisle. Combine it with this lovely headband from Twigs and Honey and you can be the Queen of the May.

Whatever your bridal style, whatever your budget, you can be lovely and delicious when you meet your prince at the end of that aisle- even if it is in the forest, in a meadow or in the sand. There are so many alternatives to the traditional wedding gown. Most importantly, BE THE BRIDE! It is your one chance to wow the crowd, so don't settle and don't bargain shop. A quality garment from a reputable salon is always a more cost effective choice. Taking chances from an unconventional source or from the internet can wind up costing you time, money and heartache. So, be smart and have fun. You owe it to yourself to look your best and feel beautiful on such an important day!




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HEADS ABOVE

Looking at these incredible images every day in the dreamy posts and beautiful weddings, I needed to share them with you! If you don't know about Twigs and Honey- you need to know about them. If you are not the traditional bride with a long veil or if you are looking for something to change into at your wedding celebration, you have to see the entire collection of headpieces from Twigs and Honey. You will also find perfumes, belts and, soon to come, garters and jewelry. I LOVE Twigs and Honey, I go there just to see the pretty pictures. But, you can go there and find that special touch for your wedding attire.

NEWS FROM BRIDAL REFLECTIONS

Always happy to bring you news from Bridal Reflections in New York City, here is the list of the latest trunk shows happening now. The first, this weekend, dresses from Romona Keveza. Timeless beauty and pure elegance are found in Romona Keveza gowns. The trunk show is March 25-27, so hurry and call for your appointment.





Next, from April 1- 3 is Ysa Makina. Dramatic in their design and stunning to look at, Ysa Makina gowns will wow the guests at your wedding and make you feel like a royal bride.





































Finally, from April 8-10, Ines DiSanto will be featured at the salon on 5th Avenue. Modern flair and sleek and unique designs define Ines DiSanto. Want to be a sexy siren on your wedding day, but still have that bridal elagance? then Ines DiSanto is the gown for you.
Whatever your bridal style, Bridal Reflections has a dress for every bride. From friendly service to expert alterations, you won't find a more pleasant shopping experience than here. Hurry and make an appointment for any of these fabulous trunk shows and check back regularly to see what's new at Bridal Reflections.










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BECAUSE YOU ARE WORTH IT

From Shopping Aisle to Wedding Aisle. That is the message that Costco is sending to couples about their weddings in a new campaign and catalog. You can find everything from the invitations, to the flowers, the rings, the honeymoon and The Dress! You can also find lawn mowers, seafood, produce, baked goods, cleaning products, gardening tools, air conditioners, etc! What a way to plan a wedding?! I am still trying to get my head around the idea. I know that times are hard- my business has been greatly affected by the economy. But, do you really want the most important day of your life to be planned from a wholesale warehouse?! I saw a clip on GMA the other morning about this and the reporter came onto the set in a wedding gown with a shopping cart full of toilet paper and Lysol! Give me a break. Weddings should be more special than that. The gowns are the
Kirstie Kelly Signature Collection. There are only about six styles and they are not bottom dollar cheap. It is bad enough that Vera Wang is selling a collection at David's Bridal and that true talent is going down the tubes because of the cheap imitations that are available at places like David's Bridal and the intranet. But, this is really setting a new low for the wedding industry as a whole. Maybe it is me, but who would plan a wedding like this? I have worked with many brides on a budget. But, they had weddings with real vendors. How can the industry survive with this kind of stuff? I am appalled and REALLY confused. Ladies- I have warned of this before, but here it is again from eWednews. True bridal professionals are being hurt by this kind of imitation. And, YOU are the ones suffering the most. They say that "imitation is the truest form of flattery". But, if your wedding is ruined by cutting corners in too many places, is it worth it? This article on knock off wedding gowns is more evidence of the way that a bride is the real victim of imitators. Your wedding is a memory that you will have for a lifetime. Cherish the planning as much as the day and don't settle for seconds when you can have more. Think about looking back in 25 years- do you REALLY want to remember smelling cheese and tires when you went for your fittings? I hope not. You can have a beautiful wedding- even on a budget. I have helped many girls do it! I can help you too.



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