SOMETHING BORROWED, SOMETHING NEW?

Have you seen the latest Friday, Bride Day show on TLC?   Something Borrowed, Something New  begs the question- "Should I wear my mother's dress or a new gown that I choose?"   Last night I had the pleasure of interviewing Kelly and Sam, the funny, talented and wonderful duo that helps a bride decide.   Kelly Nishimoto, a designer, cuts and pastes a family heirloom into a one of a kind gown, while Sam Saboura, a Hollywood stylist scours the bridal salons for a new dress.   The finger biting decision is a secret to them both as the bride appears on her choice.    

I asked them both what the easiest part of the show is and what is the hardest part.   

Kelly-      The easiest part for me is the vision.  I can see what I can do to make an old dress new again.   The hardest part is the construction in the short amount of time and the blind fit. 

Imagine how much stress is involved in creating a dress out of something that already exists in a short time!   

 

Sam- The easiest part for me is the inspiration.  It is natural for me to visualize the right dress.   The hardest part is that the bride sees nothing until she looks in that mirror.  The pressure to find "the dress" as opposed to her wearing her mother's dress is stressful.

I remember selling dresses.  I always saw "the dress", but making the bride SEE it was another story!  Add in the emotional bond of a family heirloom and WOW!

I asked Kelly and Sam if there were any nightmares in the filming of the show.  Well, it seems that one mom got really upset with Sam because she REALLY wanted her daughter to where her dress.   Sam had to do some real smoothing out of ruffled feathers.  And, there was a bridesmaid that caused a bit of a ruckus.  But, all in all, they both love the show, the brides and their moms and the idea of creating a dream dress- even if it means wearing mom's dress in the end.       


Kelly Nishimoto started out in Georgia, her first design being a wedding gown made from a trash bag and a glue gun.   She soon knew she was destined for bigger and better things and headed for Miami where her first collection, made from colored Reynolds Wrap, was a hit.   Spreading her wings and moving to California, Kelly began reinventing the corset and soon became a hit on the Red Carpet.    Designing wedding gowns came as she was asked by clients to create their dream dress.   Kelly's designs are cool, sophisticated and feminine- just like her personality.   We had a great chat and I can't wait to chat again soon.    

Sam Saboura is adorable!!!  He started out as a personal shopper for Fred Segal in LA.  Dressing celebrities came naturally to him, but he always had a fascination for weddings.   Sam headed the team of Extreme Makeover.  His warmth and keen eye were a great combination for transforming lives.   But, Sam loves Something Borrowed, because it gives him a chance to explore the world of weddings- his passion.

So, tune in tonight at 10 and get to know Kelly and Sam- and the brides who have to decide- Borrowed or New?       

PHILADELPHIA WEDDINGS WITH MATTHEW DAVID CELEBRATIONS

Happy Valentine's Day! 

 Imagine walking in to your wedding to this exquisitely romantic setting!   And, imagine having a "dream team" to see to every element of your big day!  Every bride deserves to have her vision become a reality!  That is what Matthew David Hopkins and I believe.  And, that is why we would like to team up to give you the wedding of your dreams.  From beginning to end, there is not an aspect of your day that we can't make happen.  So, let the dream begin!  This is, after all, YOUR day!

Matthew David Celebrations can design the wedding of your dreams!    And, I will keep you calm and organized along the way.  While Matthew is designing the "look" of your wedding, creating gorgeous centerpieces with the perfect linens, lighting the room with ambiance and adding all the special touches that YOU describe, you and I will be shopping for the perfect dress, finding photographers, music and all the other pieces of your special day.  Staying organized, feeling calm and having someone at your side through the entire process- and throughout your wedding.  

Matthew David Celebrations will create a vision that is truly you and that will be remembered for years to come- a vision that embodies your personality and style.   And, Wendy's Affairs of Heart will make it stress free, fun and just the way it should be.  We believe that this is YOUR day.  It is not about us, but about what you and your dream.   So, welcome Matthew David Celebrations to Philadelphia and let us make your wedding dreams come true!   Whether you are a New York bride getting married in Philadelphia, a Philadelphia bride looking for a chic New York inspired wedding or a New York bride seeking the best in the business.   The possibilities are endless.  So, let the magic begin!

 Matthew David Celebrations
95 Morton Street
New York, New York 10014
212- 905-3000

Wendy's Affairs of Heart
Philadelphia, Pa
215-237-7149
 

BE AN AMSALE GIRL AT THE WEDDING LIBRARY

The Wedding Library is having an Amsale Bridesmaid trunk show! This is a "By Appointment" event and you will see all of the new fall bridesmaid dresses from the amazing Amsale! Discounts for ordering at the trunk show and the first look at the Fall 2012 collection. So, make your appointment to take your wedding party to this great event. 212-327-0100- Call Today!!!

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.

NO JUNK IN THESE TRUNKS

January is a few days away and that means Trunk Show time in the bridal world. All of you newly engaged brides are probably dying to start shopping for your dream dress. So, here is the first list of trunk shows coming up. Remember to make an appointment! You will only be assured of personal attention and the ability to try on these amazing gowns if you have one. And, don't bring an army!!! It is very confusing to have too many opinions- YOURS is the only one that counts. And in a crowded salon, too many people cause unneeded stress to the salon and to you. So, go with your mom or a trusted friend. Don't take the whole wedding party! There will be plenty of time to show them later.

Nicole Bridal is located in The Pavilion in Jenkintown. And, Augusta Jones will be there from January 18- 21
Claire Pettibone will be showing the collection on February 10-12.
You can call them at 215-886-2333 to make your appointment.

Also, at Nicole Bridal, Sarah Jassir will be showing her dresses from January 14- 20. She will be there herself on Saturday the 14th. So, don't miss this chance to see these cutting edge gowns.

At the latest addition to fabulous bridal salons, Unveiled Philadelphia, here is the list of incredible designers you will find. Unveiled Philadelphia is located in Washington Square in Center City Philadelphia. You can contact them for you appointment at 267- 216- 6339.

Katrina Bocci designs will be showcased from January 20- 22. This example of her incredible style is fit for a queen!

Next to grace the store is Anais Collezioni. From January 27- 29, you can try on the entire collection of dresses like this one. Just beautiful! Angel Rivera is a name known to many. His designs are lovely and diverse. This one, with all its frothy layers is just one of the gowns you will see from February 3-5. And, finaly, Eugenia Couture will be available to try on from March 16- 18. Don't miss the newest premiere salon in the city or these gorgeous dresses!!




























































The Wedding Shoppe also has a stellar line up of stars in bridal gowns. Starting with Rivini on January 5- 8. Junko Yoshioka, a designer that reaches for the unique with her design arrives on January 19- 22. Simone Carvalli is set to take the stage on February 2- 5. And, Peter Langner arrives on February 8- 12. Finally, the ever romantic and lovely Monique Lhuillier will be gracing the salon from February 16- 19. Don't miss the chance to see these stunning gowns and work with the wonderful staff at the Wedding Shoppe. You can make your appointment by calling them at 610-293-1299.

PAIGE AND MICHAEL: A BEAUTIFUL DAY

Saturday, December 3, 2011- WHAT A DAY!!! The sun was shining and so was the face of this exquisite bride!! Paige and Michael said their "I Do's" at the Cathedral Basilica in Philadelphia and then celebrated in style at The Union League. It was a spectacular day! I took so many photos that is was hard to decide which ones to post. I also have the first sneak peek of the amazingly wonderful and talented Sarah DiCicco's professional photos.

But, this photo, taken just before the groom sprayed all of us with champagne, really speaks to the day- it sparkled with the love and the beauty that all weddings should have!!! And, this photo of the girls "hiding" the bride as the last of the guests arrive gave me a chuckle!

These are Sarah's photos. Paige is so lovely and Michael a fittingly handsome prince for this princess. Together they are destined to make a beautiful and rich life together full of many more memories like these. They are blessed with a great love and respect for each other, amazing family to surround them,
wonderful friends and this day, that just kept bursting with love and celebration.

After the ceremony the wedding party went to the Art Museum for photos while there was still good light. I love this shot that Sarah took of the couple.

Then, it was off to The Union League for some fun photos of the group outside and the couple in the lights of the city.
Yes, there were sparklers and champagne and lots of smiles. These images were not staged. The smiles are real and the natural ease of Sarah's talent to capture the essence of the couple's love is breathtaking!
The city lights pale next to the brightness of these two beautiful people! I can't say enough about how special they are. From early in the morning until the wee hours, the bride smiled from ear to ear. And,Sarah captured all of Paige's radiance and goodness.
This is one of my favorite photos of the day! I have to send a special thanks to Sarah! She was amazing to work with and helped me to smooth out some little issues in the day- Sarah, you know what I mean!!!



The ladies of the wedding party were expertly made up by the talents of Face the Occasion. Working with Jill and Kelly is always a pleasure! And, they had beautiful faces to start with here, so it made their job that much more fun. The house was full of Christmas- the smell of pine, carols on the stereo and the incredible tree- that we used as a photo op for the bride's dad and the girls to gather. Dressing Paige was great to watch. As I usually help to dress the bride, it was hard to step aside and let the girls and her mom do it. But, it was ok. These photos are priceless! All that Vera Wang organza needed to be fluffed just right!
The Union League did a fabulous job! There wasn't a glitch in the service! Every detail was just as we had requested and Michelle, Brian and the staff were amazing!


I have to tell you about the fabulous Petah Bashano! He created a winter wonderland for Paige and Michael! The cocktail hour was very festive in red and green,with lots of candlelight and Paige's snowflake theme. But, inside the ballroom was a splendid vision in white and gold! Trees with "snowballs" and votives hanging from the branches, gold linens, and chargers that captured the light. The backdrop to the bandstand was a winter tree- bare, but beautiful. When Paige walked through the doors to the reveal, she was thrilled! It was awesome!

The flowers, which look purple in this photo, were actually rich shades of red. And, the little flower girl's basket was white satin with crystals around the rim. She was so excited to be a fairy princess! Every detail, from the red dresses, to the snowflake ice sculpture, to the cake that was dripping with "ice" and crystal snowflakes, this wedding had every element to make it the perfect day!



The Sid Miller Band had everyone on the dance floor all night! The chairs were empty except during dinner. I had to switch things up several times during the evening, and every time, the band was right there with me to make the change or add a request. I love working with pros like this!

Thanks to Sid and his band for helping me make this a memorable day for this special pair.


The couple danced to All I Want For Christmas Is You. And, I love this shot of Paige's gorgeous mom in red! What a wonderful lady and how smashing she looked!


I could go on about this wedding for days! It was great fun, a very rewarding job and I can't say enough about the team!!! A resounding THANK YOU goes out to The Union League, Petah Bashano Event Design, Sarah DiCicco Photography, Video One Productions, The Sid Miller band, Wertz Motor Coach and King Limo, The Philadelphia Pretzel Factory and The Sofitel and Ritz Carlton for taking such good care of the guests.




This was one of those weddings that I will never forget!! Thank you Paige and Michael and Chere and Steve for letting me be a part of this exquisite and special day in your lives!!!

For more about this wedding check out Philadelphia Weddings.

Photos: Courtesy Sarah DiCicco Potography

MICHELLE AND DAN: A BEAUTIFUL DAY

This photo sums up the feeling of Michelle and Dan's wedding last Saturday- A dozen red roses and a handwritten and framed love letter from the groom to his bride. It was the first of many touching and beautiful moments in the course of a spectacular day.

We started the day at The Four Seasons in Philadelphia with a bevy of lovelies primping and giggling while waiting for the photographer. The bride was calm and relaxed as she sat by the window having her pretty face made even prettier by the expert hands of Vanity Salon. With each ring of the doorbell, and each bridesmaid appearing, the excitement grew. It wasn't long before all 8 girls and the bride were drinking champagne and chatting as John Barone was snapping his camera and Tweed Productions was getting it all on film. While downstairs, the groom and his groomsmen were nervously trying to tie bow ties and I tried to get everyone in a tuxedo jacket and pinned with a rose. The concierge at the hotel graciously came to the rescue to help me and the men with the ties. Though I had printed out directions for them, the fingers just weren't working fast enough. Time was of the essence and we needed to keep moving. As I ran back and forth between the 4th and the 6th floors, Michelle's mom was putting her into the traditional bridal sari for photos. "The Dress" was still on a hanger on the door, but Michelle was happy to take some photos in a sari for her mother. The girls were in amazement as they watched the process of folding and pinning the sari.
Finally, the guys were ready to head out to the fountain- and the girls stood at the window watching as John and Jay led Dan and the boys around outside. Meanwhile, the buses were arriving- a huge piece of the day. All the guests were staying at three hotels in the city and had to be transported to church and then to The Willows for the reception. Also, there was a school bus for the guys to get to church and a limousine for the girls. All of this had to be coordinated and timed to the minute. The bride and groom did not see each other before the ceremony,so I had to keep them apart for pictures. The buses were great! The school bus was adorable and the limo driver made sure the bride didn't get dirty in and out of the car. I love working with pros!
The Details
There were plenty of details for this wedding! And, they changed constantly during the process. So, I had to keep careful notes and check in with vendors often to keep everyone on the same page. Michelle, be in the fashion industry, has great taste. She wanted every element of her wedding to be perfect. And, with a Blackberry, and iphone and an ipad- pictures from the internet were a daily surprise in my inbox! The gorgeous flowers, by Chantilly Floral, were amazing! Three shade of pink- from fuschia to medium to light pink and hen mixed with ivory, to create these very lush bouquets and centerpieces. Michelle combined a mix of high trumpet vases with three dozen fuschia roses on top and pink calla lilies floating inside, with alternate square vessels, six to a table, with three dozen mixed roses scattered between the six vessels. Gold chairs, ivory linens and gold edged china, made for a beautiful table setting. And, there was lots of candlelight and pink uplighting in the tent thanks to Moore Events. Other details included the custom table numbers made by- ME! And, the unique escort cards- a full blown rose with a calligraphied leaf for each guest. The leaves came from Etsy and the assembly of the leaf to the rose was done by my daughter. Also, I made 50 pew bows for the church which was a darling little Catholic church. Every room at The Willows was lit with votives and scattered with vases of roses. When the guests arrived for cocktails on the patio, they were greeted by the wonderful staff of Perfect Setting catering and a "Blushing Bride" - pink, of course. Oh- let's not forget THE DRESS! Vera Wang and stunning! Michelle looked like a Barbie doll in her ivory satin gown with a billow of organza flounce on the bottom.

The Party

When the party moved into the tent, we didn't need the heaters to keep everyone warm! There was plenty of energy and great food to do that! The introduction was easy- just the happy couple. They were so excited that the DJ didn't even get their names announced before they made their grand entrance! The groom thanked everyone for being there and handed over the microphone to the bride's father for the blessing. Then the bride's sister and the groom's brother gave two touching toasts before dinner. Michelle and Dan waited until after dinner to do their first dance- a Motown favorite to get the party in high gear- AND IT DID! With the help of the very talented Vaughn Walter, from Silver Sound, the tables emptied to the dance floor and stayed that way all night! Vaughn really rocked the party!! Getting the cake cut was a challenge, as the couple didn't want to stop long enough to do it. Once they did, John had to do 3 takes to get a shot of them feeding each other- it was really cute and SO funny!! Cake and chocolate covered strawberries were set out for dessert along with a lovely coffee station. Perfect Setting did a fabulous job all night! Again- I love working with the pros!!

There was no break in the fun. Everyone was on the dance floor! The groomsmen did an Irish jig for the groom, the bride's family danced some Bollywood and taught the girls how and they even danced the hora- though the couple wasn't Jewish! It was a perfect day! The couple were happy, the food was good, the music was upbeat and great fun and...IT DIDN'T RAIN! I promised the bride it wouldn't and the rain gods and I kept the promise! I LOVE my job!