BRIDAL MARKET

Its almost October and that means its time for bridal market.  What's trending for 2020, you ask?  Taking a queue from Meghan Markle, the clean, minimalist long sleeve is definitely at the top of the list.  And, for the bride who doesn't want the traditional gown- jumpsuits, pants and a blouse and satin cargo pants will be donning the runways.  Everything is lighter, from crinolines to corsets to embroidery, as brides don't want to be weighted by their bridal attire.  Feathers, whimsical bustles, headbands instead of veils and the decline of the "naked dress" giving way to a more covered up look, without being too modest are all en vouge.  Other trends include big, sheer sleeves, two piece dresses and the little white dress for your party.  With all these choices, it will be easy for every bride to find her style.  
Now that you know what to shop for, lets talk about where to shop in the Philadelphia area for some of the top designers.  I have chosen four salons, two on the Main Line and two in Center City. Plus I am going to tell you about a concept store in the city that may be right up your alley. Lets start with shopping on the Main Line of Philadelphia, for the more traditional, upscale bride.  There are other shops, I have been to them all with my clients over the years.  However, for the ultimate shopping experience and the most choices, these two fit the bill.

Elizabeth Johns is in Ardmore, in the Shops at Suburban Square.  When you walk into the bright and beautiful surroundings of this salon, you will be instantly greeted for your appointment.  The selection here includes dresses for the bride, bridesmaids, moms and flower girls.  Some of the top designers are featured here.  For the bride, I have chosen six designers, but there are more.  These designers are timeless, enduring and always beautiful. From top left and clockwise- Reem Acra, Inbal Dror, Anne Barge, Amsale, Mira Zwillinger and Carolina Herrara.  

Bridesmaids selections include, Elizabeth Johns exclusives, Dessy and Amsale.  The newest trends and a rainbow of colors will make shopping for your maids a piece of cake.  Evening attire, perfect for the moms includes Frascara, John Paul Ataker,Wayne Clark Janique and Teresa Ripoli.  I have seen, first hand how attentive they are and how beautiful and plentiful their selection is.  so, make your appointment today.
Elizabeth Johns
46 St James Place
Ardmore, Pa 19003
610-649-8100 
  
                                                                                  Travel down Lancaster Avenue into Chester County and you will find Van Cleve Wedding Pavilion.  Think PINK when you walk into this salon.  Its a girly dream come true.  From the pink paint, to the crystal chandeliers to the flower wall, not to mention all the gorgeous dresses.  The bridal team here is top notch and very savvy.  And, Deborah, the owner is a fixture on the Main Line.  Some of the bridal designers featured here, From top left clockwise-  are Hayley Paige, Ysa Makino, Sareh Nouri, Pronovias, Stephen Yearick and Romona Keveza.  Bridesmaids include Hayley Paige, Watters and Jenny Yoo.  And, for those special moms selections include Rina di Montella, Rene Ruiz and Alex Teih.  While you are here, you can also shop for veils, jewelry and the perfect dress for the littlest of your wedding party.  I just know this will be a wonderful bridal experience for you.  So, make your appointment soon.  
Wedding Pavilion
1604 E. Lancaster Avenue
Paoli, Pa 19301
610-647-5055


If you are a city girl, these next two salons are perfect!  The Philadelphia Bridal Company is a tiny boutique in Center City.  If you are interested in Tara Keely or Atelier Pronovias, this is the place for you.  Ashley keeps things very limited, so that she can provide the best service to a specific bride. You are modern, think outside the box and have a flair for fashion.  There are no traditional gowns here.  You must have at least a $2000 budget to make an appointment.  Once there, you will have a very personal experience.  You can even feel free to bring some white wine or champagne to celebrate!  Ashley and her team are so much fun.  It will be like buying your gown in your own living room.   This salon is by appointment only. So, make yours today.                                                        

Philadelphia Bridal Company
1218 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, Pa 19107
267-239-5443

The Wedding Factor is in the funky, fun part of the city.  Located on south Street in Head House Square, this upscale salon caters to the modern bride.  If you are looking for couture bridal, this is the place.  Designers here include Elizabeth Fillmore, Yolancris, Justin Alexander, and the exclusive carrier of Berta Bridal.  They also carry Stella York and Stella York Plus Size.  Just look at these gowns!  On the cutting edge of bridal.  Make your appointment here.

The Wedding Factor
125 South Street
Philadelphia, Pa 19147
267-861-0409

I told you at the beginning of this that I was going to tell you about another concept salon.  Lovely Bride is a new idea in bridal.  For the bride who has vision, or at least an idea of what she wants, this salon is perfect.  The concept for this idea started with the idea that bridal shopping could be "cool".  This "chain" of salons across the country has a unique process for selecting your gown.  Go on the web site and select the type of dresses you like and want to try on.  Add them to your wishlist.  Then, make an appointment to go try on.  The staff will be ready for you with your choices and others that may fit your style.  How cool is that!  There is nothing stuffy or judgmental here.  Just fun and a relaxed atmosphere.  The designers- Watters, Jenny Yoo and more from BHLDN.  I love this idea.   You will love the experience.  
Lovely Bride
237 Market Street
Philadelphia, Pa 19106
215-627-1800


Now, before I go, here are some general tips for wedding gown shopping.  

1. Make and appointment.  Most salons require it and you will get much more personal service.

2. Wear the proper undergarments.  Please wear panties and not a thong.   If you have a strapless bra- great.  And, no flashy colors or crazy prints.

3. Do your hair and make up.  You want to get a picture of what you will look like and going shopping looking a mess won't help.

4. DO NOT take a lot of people.  Most salons are not equipped for large groups and too many opinions are confusing.  Most salons do not allow anyone to pull gowns without the help of a salesperson.  So, the bigger the group, the harder it is for the staff to manage the crowd.

5. Remember whose wedding this is!!!  Everyone has a style- but, this is YOUR DAY.  Don't listen to anyone who says they don't like the dress.  If you feel like a bride- ITS YOUR DAY!!!  

Finally, don't buy a wedding on line.  Gowns that are advertised on line from anonymous sites for crazy low prices are not for real.  You will be sorry.  Go to a reputable salon where you can see the dress and have all the services of a salon experience.  HAPPY SHOPPING!! 

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.              

THE PAINTED BRIDE

OK! I admit, I tune in to My Fair Wedding on Sunday nights. Not because I love the huge ego or the over the top productions that 99% of you will never have. But, because every once in a while there is a germ of an idea that sparks my interest. This past Sunday, one of those sparks perked up my curiosity. The bride was given hand painted shoes for her wedding. They were beautiful. So, I went in search of more hand painted and lovely things to make your day more personal. I will get to the shoes in a bit.

First, I think the hand painted signs that guide your guests to their destinations and the "Bride" and "Groom" chair markers are so sweet. This pretty sign that leads you to your country wedding is from Shore Chic. It sets the tone for this darling little wedding in the woods. But, you can customize your sign to fit any venue or theme.

Now, to the shoes! There are other companies that do this, but B Gall was my favorite. These beautifully painted shoes will be amazing peeking out of your gown. Figgie Shoes is also a fun company to find unique shoes that will say "here comes the bride" and surprise your guests. Now, you will want to know that you can also have a hand painted gown. This was not easy to find. It took me some time to find a designer and a photo. I found a gorgeous Carolina Herrera gown on Martha Stewart. But, it was an older style and in black and white. But, I did find a Vera Wang with a hand painted bodice with crystal beaded accents. And, I found this amazing designer, Samuelle- who would make a post on her own some day- who does hand painting and hand dipping of her fabrics. The gowns are ethereal and romantic. Chloe has hand painted flowers on the neckline.
Jane Wilson- Marquis is another designer who does painted gowns. These are some of her lovely things, perfect for the non- traditional bride. You may find other designers who do custom work and there are Etsy sites that sell these hand painted dresses. I just love the idea of having this original artwork oh a wedding gown.
How about hand painted invitations? I found these gems from two of my favorite companies- Momental Designs and Starry Night Design Studio- who also does hand painted aisle runners.

Another wonderful designer who does custom aisle runners, candles, parasols and other details, is I Do Originals. Kristen is lovely to work with and her work is beautiful.

And, who could resist the beauty of a hand painted wedding cake? These two cakes are just a sample of the many designs I found. The lovebirds is a picture created by Superfine Bakery. The sweet floral cake- your something blue, comes from the talents of Whipped Bake Shop.

And, finally, a few little details that just caught my eye. the Original Bridal Hanger/ Allegro Art is a wonderful little Etsy shop that creates pretty things like these bridal hangers and toasting flutes for the entire wedding party. These are a great gift for the bride- a perfect way to showcase her gown for pictures. And, a little extra for the wedding party to celebrate your special day.





















Let your imagination run wild and do a little digging and you will find many more ways to personalize your wedding with hand painted art. Oh- and for a perfect way to document you day with art- besides your photos, is to have a portrait of the wedding done by the talented Joan Zylkin. Joan will set up her easel and paint your day. You will have a piece of art for your home and a special memory to enjoy for many years. I enjoyed creating this post. I hope you do.

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.

BRIDAL REFLECTIONS OF MILITARY BRIDES

Once again, Bridal Reflections comes to the rescue to assist military brides in having their dream wedding dress. Bridal Reflections, as part of Brides Across America, has donated wedding gowns to military personnel and/ or their brides, so that they may have the weddings they have been unable to have.

Featured tonight on NBC Nightly News, are some of the deserving brides who have benefited from the kindness of Bridal Reflections. Bridal Reflections has been awarded one of the country's best and most chic salons by Brides Magazine. It is only one of many honors that Bridal Reflections has been given due to their tireless work with charities. The salon is wonderful and the staff is professional and lovely to work with. Congratulations to the brides who now have the gown of their dreams and to Bridal Reflections for their continuing efforts to give back to those who need it most!!

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

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

SHE SAID "YES" TO HER MATTHEW CHRISTOPHER DRESS

When Christine stepped into The Van Cleve Wedding Pavilion, she had had a tough day with her special needs kids. Christine is a teacher and I have no doubt that she is a fantastic one! But, coming through the door to shop for her wedding gown put a huge grin on her lovely face, a twinkle in her bright, big eyes and brought out her infectious personality. We were all "in love" with her from the start! Matthew Christopher was in attendance with his spectacular new collection of gowns and couldn't wait to start working with Christine. And, Christine's sister- a Van Cleve bride from last year, her mom and her future mother in law were so excited to be shopping again at The Wedding Pavilion for Christine's dress.

Christine wanted a romantic dress- but not a "safe" one. She wanted to be unique and elegant. She wanted lace- a little bling, but not overdone. But, she was open to trying things on and we wound up with about 10 dresses- but went back to the first dress.


Lourdes is gorgeous! And, when you are as pretty as Christine, anything will be beautiful! But, it was too much beading for her. The lace overlay and silver beading were stunning on this modified aline. But, lets move on. Hourglass, a duchess silk trumpet gown with a tulle train looked smashing on Christine. This dress has a very vintage feel and would be perfect for an urban chic wedding. But, for Christine, it felt like too much at the bottom.












Christine tried other designers, ballgowns, trumpets, simple and otherwise. Among my favorites was Peggy Sue. This darling 1950's inspired ballgown made of layers of pinstriped tulle and adorned with flower petals and chenille ribbon made Christine look like a doll in a window! But, again, too much skirt. This young lady was not sure exactly what she did want, but she knew what she didn't want. After about 10 dresses, she had it narrowed down to two. And, while Christine was changing, the moms were having a great chat about what their dresses looked like, how many fewer choices they had and that it was either white or ivory, not all the color and detail that there is now. Christine's sister, Jen, was also happy to re- discover her own gown of a year ago.

































































Watching Christine find her dream dress, was great fun! Matthew made it a memorable and wonderful experience for Christine. And, she looked amazing in her choice!! After donning a fingertip veil with a lace accent and a beautiful sash, Margo was the winning dress! Matthew did custom measurements and fussed over Christine so that she will be stunning on her big day!!! We all had a great time watching Christine and Matthew transform the special needs teacher/ actress into The Bride! She is beautiful and her wedding will be amazing in May!!