Hottest Wedding Trends of 2012

It has always been a wedding pro’s mission to bring a couple’s unique vision to life by offering ideas and solutions that are original, creative, cost-effective and more. With today’s media-savvy and detail-oriented couples seeking everything from signature tapas bars to creatively stylized photo shoots and cinematography, pros across the country agree that personalization is key, with out-of-the-box themes, styles and creative details destined to pack a major punch during 2012 and beyond.

“Gone are the days of the cookie-cutter couple,” says LaToya Parnell, owner of Something Blue Weddings in Washington, DC. “They are all about the wow factor, the details.”

Meghan Ely, president of OFD Consulting in Virginia, adds that with the ever-increasing influence of the Internet, it’s important that wedding pros take the time to educate their brides and manage expectations, while still helping the overall vision become a reality.

“More and more, we're finding brides heavily influenced by wedding blogs,” says Ely. “This is great news for wedding pros who love the fresh inspiration, but can also prove to be a headache. Bloggity details, as I like to call them, are sometimes created in the controlled setting of an inspiration shoot, and brides may not realize that these wedding details may not be as easy to replicate as they think.”

Here, a few of the year’s buzz-worthy trends that are impacting everything from décor to photography to stationery and more, complete with inspiring advice and insights from in-the-know pros who are making it all happen.

Design, Décor & Style  

Themed, creative and highly personalized décor is where it’s at for 2012, says Amy E. VanMeter, owner of Amy VanMeter Events in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, who adds that vintage, rustic and whimsical vibes will be amongst those topping couples’ wish lists this year.

“Themes will continue to be pulled together with creative touches that represent the couples’ personalities,” says VanMeter. “The focal points for these creative elements will be escort card displays, guest book alternatives, table numbers and desserts.” 

Brides have also discovered that repurposing vintage items and natural elements into décor can be an inexpensive and fun way to make the day unique, she adds. “I love the use of a window, with guests’ names written on the glass panes, for the escort card display,” says VanMeter. “And for the table numbers, using items like vintage clocks or playing cards adds a whimsical touch.”

Favors can also play into a rustic or natural theme. Caren Richardson, founder of The Favour Shoppe.com, expects some of her best-selling items for 2012 to include eco-themed favors that are biodegradable or can be replanted, such as confetti and celebratory poppers, which are the perfect addition to a couple’s grand exit.

Also in keeping with rustic and vintage vibes is the fact that outdoor weddings are continuing to grow in popularity, offering wedding pros a host of options to consider when it comes to tackling décor, logistics and more.

“Outdoor weddings are taking center stage as we head into 2012, thanks in part to the endless supply of alfresco fetes featured in wedding magazines and blogs,” says Ely. “It's going to be important for wedding pros to anticipate this trend and prepare themselves for the types of logistical challenges that brides may not initially consider – from Mother Nature and lighting to noise ordinances.”

Popular décor trends for outdoor soirées include lights in trees, says Sharon Naylor, author of over 30 wedding-planning books, including 1001 Ways to Save Money and Still Have a Dazzling Wedding, whether that means strings of fairy lights to create a magical environment or lanterns hung with metal S-hooks. “I'm also seeing way more chuppahs and trellises decorated with high-quality fabric, with the details in the draping and folds, minus a lot of flowers,” she says. “Many have no flowers, but have instead some subtle touches of crystals for sparkle.”

Brides are also once again investing in the production piece of the wedding – from lighting to event furniture, adds Jennifer McBride, owner of McBride Events in Virginia. “The standard polyester linens provided by the venue are just not going to cut it anymore,” she says. “The good news is that these details are no longer an afterthought, but instead a pressing item on the wedding to-do list. Wedding pros need to rethink their planning timeline to ensure the production piece receives attention sooner in the process.”

Pete and Liliana Wright, owners of Virginia’s PW Photography, agree. “As brides look to add their own personal touches to make it feel unique,” say the Wrights, “they are looking for the large items that everyone sees immediately, like event lighting and large centerpieces, as well as the little signature details that really make the room special.”

Details surrounding texture will be a dominant feature at 2012 weddings, adds Parnell, with linens showcasing such decorative details as petals, gems, appliqués, ruffles and lace, and creative color schemes showing off vibrant jewel tones and eye-catchingly unique combinations.

“Colors are all about the personality of the couple,” she says, noting that combos of deep purple and silver, yellow and silver, and red and blue will be popular choices, along with palettes that feature burnt orange, sage green, pale pink, gold, and the ever-classic black and white.

Non-traditional blends of color, including yellow and purple, orange and pink, and blue and purple, will also be seen paired together in floral arrangements, says Daevid Reed, owner of Virginia Beach-based Daevid’s of Norfolk. While traditional 2012 brides may seek a little touch of sparkle by adding crystals to English garden-inspired florals, he says, modern-minded brides will likely choose a more monochrome look with accents of jewel tones for a lively pop.

The use of color is additionally making an impact when it comes to 2012 wedding gowns, adds Lerkia Lee, bridal image consultant at Modage in Laurel, Maryland, citing Vera Wang’s collection of stunning black dresses and Monique Lhuillier’s blush-hued styles, both showcased last fall at Bridal Market in New York City.

“If I had to sum up my thoughts on the bridal collections I saw, the words would be modern, refined elegance and femininity,” says Lee, who notes that such accents as hand embroidery, heavy beading, silk tulle, French vintage lace, embellished sashes and lace sleeves are all popular enhancements.

Statement accessories also provide a personalized touch, she adds, taking note of trends surrounding the use of vintage hair clips and headbands, vintage cocktail rings and pavé bracelets. “Birdcage veils are totally here to stay,” Lee says.   

Photography, Cinematography & Entertainment

Vintage vibes and personalized flair aren’t limited to the design, décor and personal style aspects of a wedding, with everything from black-and-white images to stylized photo shoots currently topping the charts.

“Black-and-white photos are all the rage,” says Naylor, citing statistics from The Wedding Report.com, which indicate that over 60 percent of couples want at least some of their wedding photos to appear in black and white, allowing them to later mix these classics into albums or choose some for enlargement and framing.

In some cases, couples are even adding a vintage touch during the wedding itself by displaying classically themed engagement photos or old-school shots of relatives and friends. “I love the Old Hollywood touch at the reception by displaying a large black-and-white portrait of the couple,” Naylor says. 

While some couples are turning their eyes to the past, others remain firmly grounded in the present, with less interest in receiving physical prints and more focus on multimedia components, including slideshows that infuse both photo and video elements for a one-of-a-kind result, says Damien Smith, owner of Damien Smith Photography in Los Angeles.

“In my business, I've seen an increasing expectation for these,” he says. “The thing I do for my clients to enhance the multimedia experience is to provide a digital copy for their iPods and digital media players. This way, it's easier for them to share on Facebook with family and friends.”

Interactivity and multimedia also extend to the wedding day itself, Parnell notes, citing the use by DJs of such creative features as light shows throughout the evening.

Also incredibly hot with today’s brides are creative shoots that extend beyond the wedding day itself, including post-wedding rock-the-frock sessions and boudoir shoots as a special bachelorette party treat for the bride and her friends.

“The millennial generation loves to be seen, and with the invention of reality TV, everyone wants his or her 15 minutes of fame,” says Olesha Haskett Basma, owner of Oh!Boudoir Photography in Baltimore.

Rock-the-frock-style shoots, the Wrights add, give the bride an opportunity to expand beyond traditional-themed portraits and instead enjoy a session that truly allows her to let loose and express herself, without actually “trashing” her dress.

While traditional photography undergoes several creative twists, wedding cinematography is gaining enormous popularity, and accordingly, the number of studios that offer modern cinematography services is growing to meet demand, says Karyn Reohr, founder and chief creative officer for Black Label Event Films in Portland, Oregon.

“Cinematography is in higher demand, while documentary-style videography is on its way out, though it will continue to have a place with the budget bride for some time,” she says. “Wedding pros of all types, but especially event planners and photographers, should prepare for this trend to become a mainstream concept.”

When it comes to the relationship between photographers and cinematographers, adds Reohr, “it is our joint responsibility to ensure that our clients receive maximum return on their investment from both photos and film, and we should work to co-market the two mediums as a complete wedding day memory package.”

McBride agrees that she has seen an increase in the inclusion of wedding films and the addition of same-day edits as a special touch to impress guests. “Wedding cinematographers are every bit as important as the rest of the wedding-day team,” she says, “so I always encourage my planners to make sure they've dotted the I's and crossed the T's with any additional logistical items.”

Catering & Cakes

While ever-popular dessert bars can enhance the overall look and feel of an event, what about the couple who wants in on this hot trend, but also still wants to showcase a classic cake?

A popular trend for 2012, says Kara Buntin, owner of A Cake to Remember in Virginia, is the inclusion of a dessert buffet alongside a smaller wedding cake. “The display can be set up with the cake in the middle and smaller desserts placed around,” she says.

And while some couples are going smaller, others are going all-out with taller and grander designs likely influenced by last spring’s royal wedding, which featured a stunning eight-tiered masterpiece. 

The tall look, says Buntin, can be achieved by either using double-tall tiers or a combination of regular and taller tiers. “The irregularity of tiers that are different heights will give the cake a more modern look without getting too far away from tradition,” she says.  

Of course, cakes and desserts aren’t the only elements on display when it comes to food options, and tapas bars are another big hit for 2012, says McBride. “Say goodbye to food stations – that means you, mashed potato bars – and say hello to tapas bars,” she says. “Brides are having fun with food, so it's important for wedding professionals to stay current on culinary trends. Remember, a fruit and cheese display is an easy addition to the menu, but it will be the hundredth time the guests have seen it.”

Also every bit as important as the food choices, creative signature drinks have the power to not only “wow” guests, but to also make it seem as if the couple has spent more than they actually have, adds Naylor. “I'm seeing a lot more sangria in beautiful deep red shades, or pale peach, served in gorgeous glass pitchers,” she says. “It gives the guests something unique to drink that they wouldn't otherwise make for themselves. Champagne punches are also a big draw.”

Stationery & Invitations

Since today’s wedding trends are dictated more by personality than tradition, this approach is also reflected in the types of stationery couples choose, says Debi Sementelli, owner of Lettering Art Studio in Carrollton, Texas.

“Calligraphy, vintage and retro continue to be sought-after looks,” she says, adding that bold color combinations and the use of unique materials, such as fabric, wood and acrylic, are popular ways to create a signature style. “Overall, there is a great sense of fun in the out-of-the-box approach to weddings.”

With the increasing popularity of stationery blogs, plus the ease of sharing inspiration on the Internet, customized and non-traditional invitations are becoming ever more popular, adds Tracy Osborn, founder of WeddingLovely.com.

The hand-lettered trend is perfect for infusing a beautifully organic feel, she says, while wood veneer and watercolor-inspired designs offer the perfect complement to creative themes, including those which feature rustic, natural and artistic elements.

Let’s Get One Thing Straight

I’m talking about my hair, ladies. After years of hassling with my thick and naturally frizzy hair, the past couple months of stress pushed me completely over the edge. Between finals, cleaning out my office and keeping up with personal obligations, something had to go. So, I finally decided to cut back on the amount of quality time I spent each day with my blow dryer and trusty hair-straightening products.

A bit anxious but very burnt out, I recently headed to a small Korean salon recommended by a friend at work. There, they gave me a Japanese-style “magic straightening perm” for just $250. Was I nervous? Yes, especially since I used to color my hair, and chemically straightening color-treated hair can be damaging. But the staff at Mr. Lee’s Hair Place really knew their stuff, carefully trimming away a few end pieces that still contained traces of dye, while also explaining things to me each step of the way.

Was the three-hour process good for my hair? Probably not, especially given all the harsh chemicals that were used. But “healthier” treatments, including the more expensive Keratin complex, just hadn't given me the super-straight hair I wanted. Plus, Japanese straightening is permanent, whereas the Keratin treatment eventually washes out.

Now, instead of spending a solid half hour or more styling my hair, I spend less than 10 minutes blowing it dry after just a quick spritz of spray. And if it’s the weekend, I can just let it air dry, no product required, becasue no matter what I do, it comes out straight, smooth and not even slightly bulky every single time. And in my busy world, that’s completely awesome.

Have you ever tried a straightening treatment or other major styling service?

Wedding Day Beauty: A Snow White's Day In The Sun

Like probably just about every bride on the planet, I hoped and prayed for gorgeous weather on my wedding day. In the months leading up to June 4, I envisioned a day that was not too hot, not too cold, and not too overcast or rainy, but just right.

Well, though it doesn't always work out this way for everyone, I got my wish in the form of a picture perfect 75-degree, clear blue-skied day. But as happy as I was to see the sunshine, I knew it also came with the risk of a sunburn, especially for a fair-skinned bride like me.

So, though I know it's often said that sunscreen can create an unpleasant glare in photos, I was sure to slather on a generous base coat before my makeup artist arrived. After all, I figured it was much better to risk a couple subpar photos than to take much bigger risks, such as looking lobster-red during my walk down the aisle or worse, winding up with skin cancer later in life.

And as for tanning, whether real of fake? I decided to pass, thanks very much, first for the obvious health concerns, and secondly, because faux tanning just leaves me looking, well, faux. Over the years, I've come to accept and love my own snowy complexion, and since it's a natural part of who I am, it only made sense to embrace it on my wedding day, as well.

LESSON LEARNED: As you prepare for and head into your wedding day, do keep in mind that it's just that -- a single day. Stay true to yourself, and don't even think about doing anything that might jeopardize your health or safety just for the sake of a few good snapshots. Trust me, you'll feel more beautiful and confident by just being your own healthy self than you will in trying to become something you're not. Worried about a sunburn? A prop like a parasol or fixture like a canopy during an outdoor ceremony can work wonders, while also providing a great visual focus in photos.

What are your thoughts about tanning or other wedding day beauty procedures?

(Photo Credits: Alex Neumann Photography)

Getting Ready: Time Flies…

They say time flies when you’re having fun, and I guess it must be true, since the morning of our wedding seemed to speed up by the hour!

Starting out, we kept things running well ahead of schedule, thinking we’d be ready to go with plenty of time to spare. I felt calm and relaxed as I took it all in and savored the moment. Everything was moving along according to schedule.

But they also say that all good things must end. As the hour to leave drew nearer and nearer, all that extra time we’d gained suddenly vanished, and we found ourselves scrambling to get dressed and still allow time for photographer Damien to snap photos before we left for the “first look” site. Bridesmaids’ dresses needed last-minute pressing, and the girls hunted for their shoes, which were almost forgotten in all the last-minute excitement.

In my corner of the house, my chrinoline had to be secured at just the right height, and I needed help putting on my garter and shoes. As I slipped into the gown at last, Damien captured my mom zipping it up and fastening the back. Was the dress adjusted just right? What about my veil? Was my stylist ready to attach it for me? Could someone call Stephen to let him know we were getting ready to head out?

Everything blurred together into a wonderfully crazy whirl. For the first time all day, I started getting nervous, and feeling like I was really getting married in just a couple hours. It was as if a light suddenly popped on in my head, telling me, “You’re the bride…remember?!”

A few pictures and one bathroom stop (thanks, Kellie!) later, we loaded into the van we’d rented, running half an hour late, but luckily not so far behind as to ruin my plans for a “first look” at one of the most beautiful spots in town.



LESSON LEARNED: While you’re getting ready, designate a bridesmaid or family member to announce the time about once every half hour, so that you don’t lose track. And be sure to start getting into your dress with plenty of time to spare, including enough time to capture all the photos you and your photographer want. Not only do you want to avoid rushing this special moment, but it will likely take longer than you think! The same goes for bridesmaids and anyone else on hand. If you need to travel to another location, also allow time to use the restroom and get situated in the car, which can both take a surprisingly long time when wearing a wedding dress.

At what point did or do you think you’ll be hit with a case of the jitters and the realization that, oh my gosh, you’re about to get married?!

(Photo Credits: Damien Smith Photography)

Getting Ready: A Little Glitz & Glamour

Our hair and makeup session was my maid of honor Kellie’s favorite part of the entire wedding day, and it’s no mystery why. From the pampering to the photo shoots, these hours of girl time were just plain fun.

Right from the start, I had no doubt that hiring a pro to handle my hair and makeup was absolutely the right decision, as was doing a trial run a couple months in advance. Not only did having a pro on-site ensure the perfect camera-ready look, which can be tough even for a bride who’s a total makeup guru, but it also gave me a chance to relax and enjoy a little extra attention at the start of my day. Having done a trial run also made the wedding day much less stressful, since I knew exactly what to expect.

My only regret? Things got so hectic as the day went on that never once did I have a chance to reapply my lipstick! Just when I was about to do this at the church, the processional began without me, causing me to rush and throw that plan right out the window. Then, the reception was so fun and crazy that I didn’t even think about it once.

Though I certainly don’t think this “ruined” our photos in any way, it’s yet another reason why doing a “first look” and getting the most important photos taken early on was a major plus!

LESSONS LEARNED:

• If your budget allows, hiring a pro you trust to come right to you on the wedding day will definitely not disappoint. While going to a salon is also perfectly fine, the less running around you have to do, the better.

• Don’t forget to schedule a trial run, and be sure to line up a manicure and pedicure for the day before the wedding. If possible, choose a more upscale salon to ensure top-quality products and the longest-lasting results. My pedicure lasted nearly three weeks, even after being in Hawaii and swimming in the ocean!

• Don’t overlook your eyebrows. Two days before the wedding, I was sure to have my brows plucked (my skin is too sensitive for waxing), and it made a huge difference in improving my overall look. Just don’t schedule a session any closer to the wedding than 2-3 days in advance, in case of irritation. Is it your first experience with professional tweezing or waxing? Allow even more time.

• Lastly, designate a bridesmaid to remind you throughout the day to steal a quick moment here and there for makeup touch-ups. Chances are, you’ll be so wrapped up in the experience that this will be the last thing on your mind!

Are you hiring a pro to handle hair and makeup on your wedding day? What are your top tips for brides-to-be?

(Photo Credits: Damien Smith Photography) 

Hair & Makeup: Trial Run vs. Wedding Day Reality

You ladies already know how big a fan I am of hair and makeup trial runs, which allow you to work out with your wedding day stylist just the look you want, without any time constraints or jitters, long before the hectic and crazy nature of the day itself is upon you.

Are they pricey? Usually. But worth it? Totally.

I’ve recently heard a few brides ask whether the stylist always replicates the look perfectly the second time around. While there will always be slight variations, a good stylist should definitely be able to handle this, especially if he or she takes pictures and makes notes during your trial run.

To judge for yourself, compare my trial shots and wedding day photos below.

Trial Run

Wedding Day

What do you think? Did stylist Jana do a good job? Are there any dramatic differences you see in the photos?

LESSON LEARNED: Whether you do a trial run or not, be sure to speak up if you have any concerns about your wedding day look! You’ve likely paid good money for this service, and there’s nothing wrong with asking the stylist to tweak or change something, even if that means throwing out the window one or two decisions you made during your trial.

(Photo Credits: Alex Neumann Photography & Personal Library) 

Getting Ready: The Calm Before The Storm

The morning of our wedding started off quietly and slowly, with my mom, sister and I heading to one of my bridesmaids’ homes to start getting all dolled up for the special moments to come.

As we entered the quiet house along with our hair and makeup stylists, I relished the serenity of the day, but felt eager for the hustle and bustle I knew would soon follow. After all, this was my wedding day, and every moment was supposed to feel action-packed and fun, right?

But since a few bridesmaids had gone to a separate salon, things remained calm and relatively peaceful for quite a while. My mom made a Starbucks run, as stylist Jana and her daughter worked away. Stephen’s sisters joined us, patiently awaiting their turns in the makeup chair. My phone on my lap, I found time to blog and send off a few fun “wedding day” messages.

But sure enough, as the morning wore on, the house started to fill up, both with people and things. My future mother-in-law brought us lunch, leftover from our rehearsal dinner the night before. Future father-in-law? He also stopped by, kindly heading to Jamba Juice to grab our favorites. The rest of the girls arrived, and there was excited chatter, plus hugs all around.

As the kitchen table became strewn with plates, boxes of crackers, and empty plastic cups, one or two of the girls’ boyfriends even popped in and out of the picture, while photographer Damien steadily snapped away, alongside his assistant Nicole. Photo equipment filled the living room, as my gown hung happily in the window, where it could finally have its day in the sun.

Things were calm yet crazy, and quiet yet joyously loud. It was the perfect combination.

LESSON LEARNED: Before your wedding day, think about exactly what type of “getting ready” experience you’d like, as this can set the tone for how you feel going into the entire day – nervous, excited, calm, and so on. Do you envision a boisterous morning to get you pumped up? A calm, relaxing moment shared with just your sister and mom? A mix of both, like me? Let your personality be your guide. Plus, when choosing a location, be sure to pick a spot that is large enough to comfortably accommodate however many people will be there. A place that will lend a great backdrop for photos doesn’t hurt, either.

Where do you or did you plan to get ready on your wedding day? Do you prefer to be surrounded by a large group, or to keep things small?

(Photo Credits: Personal Library & Damien Smith Photography)

A Summer Sweet Pea Wedding

I’ve always loved the smell of sweet peas, and knew early on that this would be the perfect light and romantic scent to wear on my wedding day. Never a huge fan of perfume, I instead went with a rich body butter cream, which helped the scent linger throughout the day, while leaving my skin soft and hydrated for photos.

And the best part? I got my sweet-smelling cream as a gift from a family friend a few months ago, just in time to give it a test run or two!

Are you wearing a special perfume or scent on your wedding day?

(Photo Credit: Google Images)

Don’t You Know What Day This Is?

“While they were taking my order, I just wanted to ask, don’t you know what day this is?” my mom joked with me, my sister, and our hair and makeup stylists as she returned from her Starbucks run the morning of the wedding.

As excited as I was that day, if there was anyone even more pumped up, it would have been my mom. And with good reason! Between planning a wedding from across the country and balancing a busy schedule to boot, I would have been lost without my mom’s constant help and support. Did I need something picked up? My mom was there to handle it. Help reaching out to vendors early on? Mom was quick to assist. And finding a place to store all our DIY and store-bought treasures until the big day? Don’t even get me started.

Yes, this was definitely her day, too, and in light of that, I wanted to make her feel special by treating her to a little pampering. But, as a simple and humble gal, my mom doesn’t like to be fussed over. Professional makeup? Maybe. Manicure and pedicure? No thanks. And hairstyling? This freaked her out big time, and she was especially adamant about doing it herself.

But then, on the wedding day, the curls my mom tried to create in her own hair just didn’t turn out quite right, and she started to worry. As she watched my stylist Jana prettify me and the girls, I could see that she wished she’d agreed to have her own hair styled, too.

Wanting to make sure she was happy, I immediately talked to Jana. Not only did she agree to squeeze my mom in, but she agreed to do so for no additional fee. “Listen,” she told my mom. “You’re the mother of the bride today. In about a month, I’ll be the mother of the bride, too. So, don’t worry!”

In addition to being generous, Jana was very patient, making sure my mom was happy with everything she did, and that my mom wasn’t forced into anything too over-the-top. Of course, she came out looking gorgeous and feeling great, which continued throughout the evening while she danced the night away!

After the wedding, I was quick to send Jana a “thank you” card. In it, I thanked her for making me feel beautiful on my wedding day, but especially thanked her for making my mom feel as special and important as she deserved.

How do you hope to make your mom, grandmother, or another VIP lady feel special on the wedding day?

(Photo Credits: Alex Neumann Photography & Personal Library)

Wedding Day Nail Advice Taken!

Before the wedding, I asked you all for suggestions about what type of manicure I should go with for my big day. Should I go bold with purple? Keep things classic with French tips?

In the end, I just couldn’t say no to what’s tried and true, choosing to have small white tips painted against my own nails.

You can’t really even see my nails in this picture, as you also can’t in any photos other than the super close-up shots of my hands, which I think is the point. As much fun as purple nails would have been, I certainly wouldn’t have wanted them to become a distraction.

And the best part? My manicurist did such a great job, the polish on both my fingers and toes lasted throughout most of my honeymoon week, too!

For your wedding, where are you going bold, and where will you stick with the classics?

(Photo Credit: Personal Library)

Hair & Makeup Time!

My awesome stylist is getting started with my hair! 

Wanted: Wedding Day Nail Advice!

My time as a bride-to-be is quickly drawing to a close (in just 10 days!), but I still need your help. One of my final dilemmas in the run-up to the wedding is how I should do my nails. I’ve already got a mani and pedi lined up the day before, but am a bit stuck about exactly what to ask for! Here, my top three ideas.

Purple

A rich purple shade (definitely not neon-y) would match the sash on my gown, and would help add a slightly modern twist to my otherwise classic and romantic look. On the other hand (no pun intended), I don’t want my nails to be too flashy or distracting.

Pink

Light pink nails seem to be a classic fallback of brides everywhere, but do they scream “boring”? Plus, would pink nails look silly next to a bouquet with a grape ribbon?

French Tips

My own nails are too short and in no condition to sport French tips on their own, so this choice would mean a full set of acrylics. I’ve had them once before, and liked the way they turned out, but I do remember they were a bit expensive and took the salon a long time to apply.

What do you think I should go with, and what will you or did you do for your own wedding? Thanks a bunch!

(Photo Credit: Google Images)

The Beauty Beast

As brides, we’re constantly bombarded with the latest and greatest beauty fixes that are supposed to ensure the “perfect” wedding day look. From peels to masks, shots to bleaches, I could drive myself absolutely crazy trying to keep up with all of the “musts” I’m supposed to be undertaking to correct my so-called imperfections.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m no stranger to dressing up for work and play, and have been known to indulge in a shopping spree or two. I know that in our society, looks matter, and it’s important to me that I maintain a healthy weight, take care of my hair and skin, and look put-together and stylish when it counts.

But when all is said and done, I’m no beauty queen. I’ll take flip-flops over stilettos any day, and am more comfortable in my time-tested jeans than I am in designer duds. And makeup? I’ll ask my fashionista sister for advice about anything beyond a basic application. Plus, with the wedding quickly approaching, I have even less time for fancy beauty procedures, thanks very much.

Did I always have this laid-back attitude? I’ll admit that it took me a while to get here. Just last summer, I paid $400 for a Keratin hair-straightening treatment. It did make my locks easier to manage, but the results didn’t last long enough to be worth the money. And more than once, I paid hundreds for teeth-whitening treatments that did enhance the look of my mouth. But were my teeth really that bad to begin with? Over time, I came to realize that I was doing a lot of these things simply because I thought I should be, rather than because I really needed to.

So, enough already! For my wedding day, I’m splurging on a top-notch makeup artist. I’m sticking with my fitness goals from now until the big day, and beyond. I’m making sure my eyebrows are nicely shaped, my nails are healthy, and that I line up a professional manicure and pedicure for the day of the rehearsal. I’ve gone back to my natural hair color after years of dying and highlighting, and have been religiously growing it out for the past year.

But expensive treatments and miracle fixes? I’ll pass. Perfection is impossible in all areas of life, and my wedding day is no exception. My wedding day is about being myself, having fun, and being beautiful in a way that’s true to who I am. And really, what more could I ask for?

Have you or will you be taking up a special regimen or getting a certain treatment before the big day? What are your thoughts about spending big bucks on bridal beauty?

(Photo Credit: Google Images)

The Hair & Makeup Test Run!

Heading out to California is always a fun treat for me, but my trip a couple weeks ago was especially exciting because I got to do my hair and makeup trial while I was in town!

Jana Bunge, owner of Makeup and Hair Design by Jana, did a stellar job, giving me just the soft, romantic look I’d dreamed of. And best of all, I still looked like myself, though much more polished and camera-ready.

Here, my favorite shots of the fun as it unfolded, plus the final results, shown outside in daylight.

What do you think? Did I choose a wedding-worthy look? Have you or will you do a trial run before your big day?

(Photo Credits: Kellie Warren & Jana Bunge)

Hair & Makeup Trial: Getting Inspired!

I can’t wait to head out to California this morning for an amazing week of wedding planning, my bridal shower, the big Disneyland bachelorette party, and more!

One fun thing on the agenda? My hair and makeup trial with the stylist I lined up in December! With experience doing styling for plays and television, she has an amazing portfolio, and the sky’s the limit when it comes to the beautiful wedding day looks she’s created.

The hard part is figuring out what I want! Since I’ll be wearing a veil and crystal-pearl headband, I’m hoping to have a small knot at the back of my hair to help give those items some hold. But as for the rest of the style, I’m envisioning wearing my hair down and long, in curls, possibly even with added extensions. Maybe something along these lines…

As for makeup, I’d love a soft, romantic look that doesn’t overpower my fair skin. I can’t wait to share pictures after the session!

Have you done your hair and makeup trial yet? Which styles are you considering or planning to go with on the big day?

(Photo Credit: Google Images)

Style for the Camera: Achieving a ‘Picture Perfect’ Look

Today, it’s all about bridal fashion and style, as L.A.-photographer Damien Smith shares with me his tips for ensuring a photo-perfect wedding day look!

As a fair-skinned bride, I’m concerned about turning into a lobster on my big day. But I’ve also heard it’s important to watch how much sunscreen I use, since it might affect the amount of light reflecting off my skin in the photos. Is that true?

Yes, this is true, since sunscreen can make your skin very shiny. It’s best to use an oil-free product so there is no shine or reflection.

When shopping for a dress, what should a bride keep in mind about the types of details and silhouettes that usually photograph best?

Don't let your desire for a perfect silhouette picture influence the type of gown you buy. Get the dress you really want, because a professional photographer will definitely be able to capture a great shot no matter what. However, if a stellar silhouette photo is really important to you, try not to get a dress that's super puffy.

As for as the fine details of your dress, such as beading and shimmer, your professional photographer will capture all of it, usually before you put on your dress, and immediately after you put on the dress. Most wedding photographers do a one-on-one session to showcase the lovely bride and her dress.

When I was trying on gowns, some of the dresses looked completely different in the mirror than in the photos we snapped with my digital camera. For example, the intricate beading and embellishments on the gowns were not as visible in the pictures, and the shots looked dark. Will a professional photographer’s camera be sophisticated enough to truly capture these details?

Point-and-shoot cameras use an averaging system to determine the best exposure for a picture, and so do professional cameras when used on certain automatic settings. When you have a lot of white in the frame, the natural response is for the camera to darken the picture.

However, professional cameras can be adjusted manually by the photographer. As long as your professional photographer knows how to use his camera, there will be no problems. A good question to ask a photographer is, "Do you shoot with your camera using automatic settings, or do you shoot making manual adjustments?"

You want a photographer who makes manual adjustments, as this is the mark of a true professional and someone who knows which settings to use to get the best pictures. If the photographer doesn't understand F-Stop and shutter speed, run!

What should a bride keep in mind when it comes to her makeup for the photos? I’ve heard horror stories about brides who tried doing their own makeup and ended up looking way too washed out in the pictures. How important is it to hire a makeup artist skilled at doing applications for photo sessions?

Unless the bride-to-be is a professional makeup artist, she should not attempt to do it herself. Hire a professional, because there's a huge difference between doing your makeup to go hang out, and doing makeup for your wedding. Professional makeup artists understand that a bride’s makeup must be "camera-ready” to prevent that washed out look.

Why let thousands of dollars in photography, attire and so on go down the drain just to save the couple hundred dollars that a professional makeup artist costs? When choosing your makeup artist, always ask to see pictures of other brides he or she has done makeup for.

What are your plans for hair and makeup, and which photos of you in your gown are you most excited about?

(Photo Credit: Damien Smith Photography)

Maid’s Musings: Makeup & Marriage

Kellie writes her own fashion blog, Playing Dress-Up, and runs Whatshername Vintage, an Etsy shop specializing in all things vintage. Most importantly, Kellie is Bicoastal Bride's maid of honor, and is very excited to be a part of her sister’s wedding planning!

So, ladies, you’ve got your dress. Coordinating accessories have been selected. You’ve found the perfect pair of shoes. But there’s still another very important aspect of your wedding day look to consider – makeup!

Whether you’re an avid makeup user and product addict in everyday life, or prefer to go 100 percent natural, it can be difficult to pick the perfect look for your big day. There are endless possibilities when it comes to makeup. Do you want something soft and feminine, dramatic and glamorous, or beachy and natural? No matter what your personal preference is, the right colors can help emphasize your best features and highlight your personality.

Since there are so many options when it comes to bridal makeup, I can’t exactly help you narrow down your favorites. I can, however, offer up a few bits of inspiration from some lovely celebrities. Hopefully, these pictures will at least give you a few ideas about looks you’d like to try!

If none of these looks appeal to you, or you’d just like to try out some makeup techniques for yourself, may I recommend Lauren Luke’s excellent video tutorials?

Not only can Lauren guide you through a variety of celebrity-inspired looks, but she also has her own line of makeup palettes that coordinate with her videos! She even has some bridal-inspired tutorials, if you’d like to DIY on your wedding day. Check out her YouTube channel, and happy makeup-ing!

(Photo Credits: Google Images)

Wedding Styling Decisions: Solutions & Compromises

First off, thank you all tremendously for your suggestions and input about my recent bridesmaid hair and makeup dilemma. Your honesty and willingness to share your thoughts helped me put this situation into perspective and work with the girls to arrive at a solution that makes us all happy.

Though I definitely consider myself to be an overall easygoing and stress-free bride, my perfectionist streak does make the occasional appearance. And let me tell you, if I’m wrong or out of line, I definitely welcome being told so, and will be the first to admit it. That’s the very reason I threw the situation out to you all – because I don’t want to in any way be a selfish bride who only cares about “her day” without any regard for others. Plus, I (of course!) realize that what matters most on my wedding day is simply having my sister and friends there beside me, since I love each one of them for exactly who she is, regardless of something as superficial as appearance.

In the end, given our wedding style and the girls’ limited experience doing their own hair or makeup for formal events, we decided that professional styling was still our best bet. But based in part on your input, I realized that the timeline I was initially given – starting at 6:30 a.m., plus allotting two hours for each girl’s hair and makeup – is over-the-top. And, while some of the girls still want to use my stylist, who charges $200 for both services, I agree that this is simply too much to expect all of them to spend.

As a compromise, I still plan to have my pro come to the house to style me, my mom, my sister/maid of honor, and about half of my bridesmaids, who feel the cost is reasonable and prefer to use this stylist. The rest of the girls have arranged appointments at a nearby salon that is offering each of them a basic hair and makeup styling for about $100.

I’m so glad to work this all out and move on to the fun part…searching for style ideas and inspiration! For myself, that is. As for the ladies, I’m completely fine with whatever looks they want to go with. Have you faced any challenges in working out wedding details with your bridal party? How did you resolve these issues?

(Graphic Credit: planningtoelope.com)

Wedding Styling Decisions: A Hair-Raising Experience

Even in the early days of planning our wedding, I knew that having a top-notch hair and makeup stylist was high on my splurge-worthy list of musts, especially since we’re investing so much in working with an award-winning photographer and all-day videographer. And from the moment I met the stylist I ended up hiring, I absolutely loved her. With experience doing both hair and makeup styling for TV and plays, she’s highly skilled at creating beautiful looks for the camera, and is also very friendly and easy to work with. The only hitch? She’s definitely not cheap, especially since we’re holding our wedding in a very expensive part of Southern California.

Maybe it’s because I believe in the old saying that you get what you pay for, or maybe I’m simply becoming desensitized to the high cost of all things wedding-related, but when I learned that the price for my trial run, plus day-of hair and makeup styling, would come to almost $500, including tip, I thought it was high, but I accepted it. I also willingly told the stylist to plan on bringing and charging for two assistants the day of the wedding, so that the girls in my large bridal party of seven wouldn’t have to start getting ready at the crack of dawn.

Well, it all sounded great until I got the final timeline and pricing breakdown for the girls. Even with three stylists on hand, two girls will have to start getting their hair done at 6:30 a.m., with everyone else staggered throughout the day, until we’re all finished around 1 p.m. Um, I knew we’d have to start early, but 6:30 a.m., with an hour and a half allotted per girl for hair, plus a half hour each for makeup?! The girls were simply astounded by this. And then, there’s the issue of the $200 price tag per girl for both hair and makeup styling. That news just about floored them!

Since I’m definitely not a bride who cares whether all her maids have identical hairdos, I’ve already told the girls that if they prefer to go to a good-quality salon in the area, instead of using my stylist, that’s completely OK with me. However, even doing that may only save them about $50 each, since the salons in the area are also quite pricey. Would it be OK, they wondered, to do their own makeup in order to cut costs?

While I do want to help them save money, I have to admit that I strongly prefer that everyone has her hair and makeup professionally done for our photos. After all, these photos and this day are once in a lifetime events! But on the other hand, I don’t want to be a “bridezilla” who’s forcing everyone to shell out an exorbitant amount of money, especially since they’ve already spent a couple hundred each on dresses, and will be spending even more on my Disneyland bachelorette party.

What are your thoughts, ladies? Do you think $200 sounds like an outrageous cost? Are you asking your bridesmaids to have their hair and makeup professionally done, or are you OK with them doing their own? Are you all using the same stylist, or are some girls going to different salons? What’s your general timeline, and how much time is allotted for each girl’s hair and makeup? At this point, I’ll take all the advice I can get!