Category: bridal

July 17, 2024

Beyond the Big Day: Creative Uses for Your Wedding Dress

You’ve spent months searching for the perfect gown, pouring over lace details and envisioning how it will make you feel on your wedding day. Now, as you stand in front of the mirror, your heart skips a beat as you realize this dress is more than just fabric and stitches—it’s a symbol of love and anticipation. But beyond the wedding day itself, a question lingers: what happens to this cherished gown once the celebrations are over?

Many brides are now looking at their wedding dresses as something more than just attire for a single day. They see them as sources of lasting memories, decor, accessories, and even jewelry. If you’re interested in ways to make the most of your gown beyond the ceremony, we’ve put together ten creative ideas for you.

1. Preserve the Memories with a Wedding Dress Preservation Kit

One of the most popular and practical options for post-wedding dress care is preservation. A wedding dress preservation kit allows you to protect your gown from yellowing, stains, and fabric deterioration over time. These kits typically include cleaning and packaging materials designed to maintain your dress’s pristine condition. Restoration wedding dress is an ideal choice if you plan to store your gown as a keepsake or pass it down to future generations.

When choosing a wedding dress preservation kit, it’s essential to opt for a trusted provider, ensuring professional care and quality results.

2. Create Cherished Keepsakes

Your wedding dress holds sentimental value beyond its one-time wear. Transforming parts of your gown into keepsakes allows you to preserve its memory in everyday life. Consider these creative ideas:

Throw Pillows: Use fabric from your dress to create elegant throw pillows for your home. Every time you see them, they’ll remind you of your special day.
Handkerchiefs: Fashion delicate handkerchiefs from lace or satin sections of your gown. These can be cherished gifts for loved ones or future family members.
Framed Fabric Pieces: Frame a piece of your gown’s fabric as a beautiful wall art piece. It’s a subtle yet meaningful way to display a part of your wedding attire.

3. Pass on the Joy: Donate Your Dress

For brides who want to spread joy beyond their own wedding, donating your dress to charity can make a significant impact. Many organizations accept wedding dress donations to provide attire for brides who may not have the means to purchase their dream gown. Research local charities or national organizations that specialize in redistributing wedding attire, ensuring your dress finds a new purpose in making another bride’s day just as magical.

4. Fashion Forward: Repurpose Your Dress

If you’re intrigued by the idea of transforming your wedding dress into something new, consider these stylish options:

Cocktail or Evening Gown: Work with a skilled tailor to alter your dress into a glamorous cocktail or evening gown. Shortening the hemline, adding embellishments, or changing the neckline can give your gown a new lease on life for future formal events.
Fashionable Accessories: Use lace or beaded elements from your dress to create unique accessories like hairpieces, belts, or even a clutch purse. These accessories can add a touch of elegance to your wardrobe and serve as constant reminders of your wedding day.

5. Embrace Artistic Endeavors

For the creatively inclined, consider using parts of your dress in artistic projects:

Artwork: Incorporate fabric from your gown into a custom piece of artwork or sculpture. This artistic expression can capture the essence of your wedding day in a visually stunning way.
Quilting or Patchwork: Create a quilt or patchwork blanket using sections of your gown’s fabric. It’s a cozy and sentimental way to repurpose your dress into something that can be used and cherished daily.

6. Preservation Tips and Considerations

When opting for wedding dress preservation, follow these tips to ensure the longevity of your gown:

Professional Cleaning: Before preservation, ensure your gown is professionally cleaned to remove any stains or dirt that could cause discoloration over time.
Storage Conditions: Store your preserved gown in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Acid-free tissue paper or packaging materials help maintain fabric integrity.

Conclusion

Your wedding dress is more than just clothing; it’s a symbol of love, joy, and cherished memories. By exploring these creative uses and preservation options, you can continue to celebrate your wedding day long after the last dance. Whether you choose to preserve it for sentimental reasons or repurpose it into new treasures, your gown’s journey doesn’t have to end at the altar. Embrace these ideas to ensure your wedding dress remains a beloved part of your life’s story, continuing to inspire and delight for years to come.

June 29, 2024

Unveiling the Magic: A Bride’s Guide to Wedding Dress Fashion Shows

Photo: Pexels.com

With so many different bridal gown styles to choose from, finding the ideal wedding dress for your big day can be challenging. A great way to find your perfect bridal gown is by watching or reading about the latest wedding dress fashion shows.

These fashion shows are specifically created to provide brides with a sneak peek into the latest trends and designs. They showcase a variety of styles, from timeless classics to modern, avant-garde creations.

Additionally, you’ll get to see how different silhouettes, fabrics, and embellishments come to life on the runway. Attending or watching a wedding dress fashion show can help you narrow down your preferences and discover which styles make you feel most beautiful and confident.

Here are some bridal dress fashion shows that you can attend whether you’re in your PJs or in a coffee shop:

New York Bridal Fashion Week

This is probably one of the biggest and most popular bridal fashion events, attracting designers, buyers, and brides from all over the world. Some prominent designers featured in New York Bridal Fashion Week are Vera Wang, Marchesa, and Monique L’huillier.

If you prefer modern minimalist styles, romantic lace, or bold gowns, then you’ll find plenty of inspiration from the New York Bridal Fashion Week collections.

Milan Bridal Week

The Milan Bridal Week is known for celebrating the rich heritage of Italian design. It emphasizes the exquisite detail and superior quality that Italian designers are renowned for. Brides attending this event will be treated to a stunning array of gowns that highlight intricate lacework, luxurious silks, and impeccable cuts, reflecting the best of Italian bridal couture.

Alberta Ferretti, Atelier Eme, and Peter Langner are famous designers who usually participate in Milan Bridal Week. If you’re a fan of Italian glamor and timeless silhouettes, then watching Milan Bridal Week is a must.

London Bridal Fashion Week

London Bridal Fashion Week features regal designs that are fit for a queen. The collections often showcase luxurious fabrics, intricate lace, and elegant silhouettes, making every bride feel like royalty on her special day.

Designers such as Jenny Packham, Temperley London, and Sassi Holford are usually part of the London Bridal Fashion Week. In addition to timeless, elegant silhouettes, the London Bridal Fashion Week also has an array of eclectic styles that reflect the diverse tastes of modern brides, from bohemian chic to glamorous embellishments.

Bridal Fashion Week Los Angeles

Bridal gown collections from the Bridal Fashion Week Los Angeles usually contain a combination of Hollywood glamor and bold, figure-hugging silhouettes. These gowns are perfect for brides who want to embrace a luxurious and dramatic look, featuring sleek lines, glamorous accents, and a touch of sparkle.

Some popular designers who are part of Bridal Fashion Week Los Angeles are Claire Pettibone, Galia Lahav, and Lazaro. If you like Hollywood-inspired bridal gowns, then you’ll find plenty of inspiration at Bridal Fashion Week Los Angeles.

How to Watch These Shows Online

With a phone and wifi, watching bridal fashion shows has become incredibly convenient. There are several popular wedding dress fashion shows that can be viewed online, allowing brides all over the world to get a glimpse of the latest trends and find inspiration for their dream dress.

You can start by checking out the official Fashion Week websites, which typically offer live streaming and on-demand replays. For a broader scope, Fashion Week Online is an excellent resource, providing live streams and replays of shows from New York, London, Milan, and Los Angeles.

For New York Bridal Fashion Week, you can visit The Bridal Council’s website, which offers exclusive content and detailed coverage of the event.

Bridal Gown Style Highlights from the Latest Fashion Shows

Before pinning on a specific bridal gown style and choosing your wedding accessories, it’s important to consider your personal style and the overall theme and venue of your wedding.

Marchesa’s latest collection from the New York Bridal Fashion Week is ideal for brides seeking an ethereal look. The collection showcases breathtaking gowns with romantic details such as cascading ruffles, delicate beading, and floral lace motifs.

For the classic bride, Sassi Holford’s latest collection from the same event might be a perfect fit. Their collection features timeless silhouettes paired with contemporary elements like illusion lace and sleek crepe fabrics.

From Runway to Reality: Post-Wedding Gown Care

After you’ve found the perfect dress, you’ll want to ensure it stays looking flawless for years to come. Here’s why professional wedding dress cleaning is crucial:

Expert Stain Removal

Wedding festivities can lead to unexpected spills or makeup stains. Professional cleaners have the expertise and gentle methods to remove these blemishes safely, preventing permanent damage.

Delicate Fabric Care

Wedding dresses are often made from delicate materials like silk or lace. Professional cleaners understand how to care for these fabrics, ensuring your gown retains its shape and structure.

Long-Term Preservation

Proper cleaning removes dirt, sweat, and oils that can deteriorate the fabric over time. This extends the lifespan of your dress, allowing you to pass it down as a heirloom or simply enjoy it as a cherished memento.

Here’s how to find a reputable wedding dress cleaning service:

Read online reviews and recommendations.
Look for a service that specializes in wedding gown cleaning.
Ask about their cleaning methods and experience.
Get a written estimate before the cleaning process begins.

By prioritizing professional cleaning, you can ensure your wedding dress remains a beautiful reminder of your special day for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Finding your ideal wedding dress should not be a stressful experience. Remember to focus on what makes you feel beautiful and confident. Take your time exploring different styles and designers, and don’t be afraid to try something new.

About the Author

Tony Kantzavelos is the CEO of Love Your Dress, a premier dress-cleaning company in Ontario with over three decades of experience in dress cleaning and alteration. It operates in an impressive 10,000-square-foot facility in West Toronto.

November 23, 2023

A Head to Toe Bridal Accessory Checklist That Every Bride Needs

Your wedding day holds great significance in your life and it is crucial that you make an impression with your attire. Let’s look into the aspects of coordinating your appearance from head to toe with our bridal accessory checklist.

Choosing the Perfect Bridal Gown

Selecting the wedding dress is the first step in coordinating your bridal look. There are factors to consider when choosing a gown for your day such as:

Body shape: Are you blessed with an hourglass figure? Do you have a petite frame? In either case, opting for a form-flattering silhouette will accentuate your body type beautifully.
Style: If you’re someone who feels uncomfortable revealing much cleavage in public, a plunging neckline may not be the best choice for you. However, if you enjoy embracing daring fashion statements this detail could be an option to complement your style, especially when paired with eye-catching accessories like statement earrings and necklaces.
Season and location: Consider the time of year and the location of your wedding ceremony. If it is during wintertime when most people are bundling up in coats or jackets outside anyway, or if it is summertime when shorts are the attire of choice for many, opting for simplicity might be the best decision.

Remember that finding the gown is not only about following trends, but also about selecting something that reflects your individuality and makes you feel confident on your big day.

Bridal Bouquet Selection

When it comes to selecting the flowers for your bouquet, there are factors to consider. First and foremost it’s important to choose flowers that are currently in season. This ensures that they will be fresh and vibrant, without any signs of wilting or browning. You can receive same-day flower delivery in Brisbane from Flower Lovers so that you look perfect on your big day.

It’s crucial for the flowers to complement both your gown and hairstyle. This means avoiding unconventional colors unless you’re aiming for a bold look. Your wedding day should be a blend of fun and elegance, so make sure everything is coordinated perfectly.

And, take into account the location of the ceremony or reception when choosing types of blooms. Also, consider any themes that may be incorporated throughout these events, if applicable.

Hair and Makeup Harmony

Hair and makeup should complement each other. When selecting hair and makeup, consider your skin tone and facial features to find the best options. For a wedding, it’s important to choose hair and makeup that aligns with the theme. If it’s a garden party, opt for pastel shades. If you’re having an evening reception at a castle, go for dramatic eyeliner and bold red lipstick. If you’re having a ballroom affair with lots of sparkle (think: Cinderella), select a glamorous look that matches the occasion.

It’s not necessary for bridal looks to match each other – it’s about looking like two individuals who belong together rather than appearing as halves of one whole. However there are ways to coordinate without being overly identical; try using blush tones on both sides of your face pairing colors like navy blue eye shadow with coral lips, or choosing different textures for similar styles (such as curly, versus straight hair).

The Right Accessories

Accessories play an important role in completing a look. They have the power to enhance or detract from your appearance. It’s essential to carefully consider your choices and how they harmonize with the rest of your wedding attire. Jewelry is always a must-have, whether it’s a pair of earrings or an exquisite necklace matched with earrings. If you opt for an up-do hairstyle, be mindful that long necklaces can become entangled in your locks. To avoid any mishaps during photo sessions, it’s best to remove them. Additionally, handbags and shoes should complement each other in terms of color scheme and style to ensure that no item clashes with another.

Footwear Fashion

You might be thinking, “But I really want to wear heels! They’re so adorable!” You know what? You absolutely can. However, it’s worth considering that not every bride can effortlessly rock heels or even wedges. Take a moment to think about it; if you happen to be a bit shorter than your partner, would they appear awkward in their dress shoes? Do you have any conditions that make it challenging for you to wear shoes?

If the answer is yes to either of these questions, or if you have concerns about tripping over something on your day (or worst case scenario, taking a tumble), then perhaps it’s worth considering an alternative footwear plan altogether. Opting for a pair of flats will provide both comfort and a chic stylish look. The added bonus is that they won’t make anyone feel like they’re towering above everyone else at the reception.

Groom’s Attire Coordination

Make sure you coordinate the wedding colors perfectly. Also, ensure that the bridal party is well-matched. Take into account the weather conditions as well. If it’s a wedding in summer or an indoor reception at night (or vice versa) make sure to consider the location and time of day. Additionally, think about whether you want your groom’s attire to match something, other than what everyone else is wearing. You could consider an accessory or style choice that will make him stand out from his groomsmen. Be cautious not to go overboard.

Final Touches: Fragrance and Smile

Make sure to have a smile on your face! Smiling is infectious and can instantly uplift your mood for the day. Ensure you have a scent. Opt for a fragrance that’s subtle enough not to overpower your appearance, yet noticeable when people come near you. Don’t forget to put on your wedding ring(s). It holds significance not only as part of the ceremony, but also adds a beautiful sparkle to your photos. Take a moment to check and tidy up your nails. Make sure they are well groomed and free from any hangnails or chips. You wouldn’t want them to detract from all the effort put into creating a bridal look.

June 25, 2023

Karishma Deepa Sondhi Returns to Couture Fashion Week with Exquisite New Designs

Top Indian luxury fashion brand Karishma Deepa Sondhi (KDS) will present their latest exquisite designs during Couture Fashion Week New York’s 38^th season during a special Times Square showcase.

Karishma Deepa Sondhi is a mother-daughter venture. Karishma, who attended the Parson’s School of Design in New York, handles designing, and Deepa oversees production, sales, marketing and media. The brand caters to women of all shapes and sizes, with a strong belief that fashion is for everyone, it’s fluid and inclusive. In addition to its couture and pret-a-porter creations, KDS is renowned for its gorgeous bridal designs, dressing not only Indian brides, but also European and American brides. The luxurious KDS flagship store in New Delhi caters to an international clientele from the USA, Canada and other countries as well as loyal Indian clients. Its workshop of fifty people includes master tailors, drapers, pattern makers, and embroiderers. The KDS signature style is originality, noted for aesthetically flowing drapes juxtaposed to structured western wear. All designs are impeccably handcrafted, and include all kinds of meticulous embroideries like beads, stones, Swarovski crystals, bugle beads and pearls, creating timeless and collectible ensembles.

Karishma Deepa Sondhi has shown designs on the runway at numerous important fashion events in India as well as Couture Fashion Week New York. The brand is a favorite of many Bollywood celebrities like Bipasha Basu, Mallika Sherawat, Zareen Khan, and more.

April 25, 2023

The Perks Of Getting A Limo Service For Your Wedding Day

With over 2.5 million weddings happening yearly, engaged couples often plan their weddings at the earliest time possible. Wedding planning can get pretty hectic as you must ensure everything is booked beforehand, considering that hundreds or thousands of other couples could get married on the same day as your wedding. The last thing any couple would want is to miss the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of getting married in their dream venue simply because another couple booked it ahead of them.

But besides deciding on the venue, the wedding dress, flowers, decorations, and cake, another crucial factor you mustn’t forget during planning is your wedding transportation. The wedding transportation doesn’t always get remembered as early as it should until the actual wedding day when they realize they don’t have a car to take them to the venue. To avoid this unnecessary stress, booking your wedding vehicle in advance should be among your top wedding planning priorities.

To make your arrival more stylish and elegant, consider getting a limo service for your wedding day. Getting a wedding limo service has many perks that not many people realize. Keep reading to know why there’s no better way to travel for such a notable event.

Sets the tone of your wedding day

Weddings are all about romance, happiness, union, celebration, and, often, glamour. Hiring a limo service on your wedding day can instantly set the tone of your wedding celebration, connoting that this event deserves this ultra-special splurge.

Even if you’ve already invested a lot in the decorations, choice of venue, and food, having a limo pick you up from the hotel and drop you off at the wedding entrance will add the final pop of style. So, boost your wedding day’s tone of style and elegance by looking for luxury wedding car and limousine hire Perth services or other limo hire companies in your area. You can check their websites and see which type of stretch limousine will best suit the theme or ambiance of your wedding.

Overall, riding in a wedding limo will set the tone of the special occasion and put you in the mood to celebrate.

Provides convenience and comfort

A wedding limo service can provide you with a higher level of comfort and convenience than any other vehicle. You may check out this video and learn more about some of the best features a wedding limo has to offer.

Limos are generally bigger and longer, giving you the space you want to spread out and get comfy as you prepare to step out for the ceremony. For brides wearing big wedding ball gowns, hiring a limo service is the answer to ensuring your dress doesn’t tear or crumple when you step in and out of the vehicle.

Furthermore, some limos have a snacks and beverage station where you can sip a glass of champagne, listen to music, and de-stress during the trip. Best of all, you won’t need to worry about opening the car door as you have the driver and a chaperone to assist you when entering or exiting the vehicle. And if you need a ride to and from the wedding venue, the driver and the limo will be waiting for you whenever you need it.

Get glamorous wedding arrival photos

Most couples spend about USD$2,000 to USD$5,000 for wedding photography to encapsulate every moment on their wedding day. From wearing the gown, tying the groom’s necktie, down to walking down the aisle and up to the first dance, capturing these moments into photos will allow you to have your wedding day documented forever.

But, have you imagined seeing yourself in your wedding photos stepping out on a limousine? Hiring a wedding limousine will provide a gorgeous backdrop when taking photos as you arrive and step out of the vehicle. Plus, it’s not every day you get a chance to have a photo while stepping out of a limo, so you might as well make the most of it during your wedding day.

Less stress about being on time

Some couples experience wedding-day anxiety for several reasons, including last-minute changes, missing bridesmaids/groomsmen, and delayed transportation.

Getting a limo service can help reduce your wedding day anxiety and stress. The limo hire company will handle everything – from preparing the vehicle, dropping everyone off on time, and getting everybody home safely.

A commendable wedding limousine service will be punctual at all times and have a pre-planned route to avoid heavy traffic roads. With the transportation taken care of, you can sit and relax in the backseat and prepare for the special day.

More room for more passengers

Arranging wedding transportation can be costly, especially if you book multiple vehicles to cater to your guests’ transportation needs. One way to save some money is by getting a limo service. Since the limo is significantly longer and wider than a regular wedding car, you’ll have more room for passengers like your parents, bridesmaids/groomsmen, and other immediate families.

Depending on your chosen model, some limos can hold up to 10 to 14 passengers. Plus, riding together with your guests or bridal party in a limo can set a joyous tone for this special day.

Celebrate In Style With A Wedding Limousine Service

As you can see, getting a wedding limo service does have a lot of perks that you can’t always get from regular wedding cars. Besides adding pizazz and romance to the occasion, it’ll ensure you and your guests will arrive at the venue comfortably and in style while eliminating any wedding day stress.

March 22, 2021

3 Tips to Dressing Up Appropriately for A Daytime Event

Throughout your lifetime, you will be invited to a series of daytime events such as business parties, weddings, networking events, interviews, barbeques, and more. As you can see (and probably know already), each of these has a different degree of formality and requires different styles.

While the casual ones are easier to appreciate and prepare for, the formal ones can be a bit confusing and make choosing an appropriate outfit a bit difficult. Things get even a bit more challenging if we take into consideration all the factors like the venue, the location, or the weather.

Still, you can use a few sartorial standards as general guide lines. Read on for some of the most common ones.

A Black-Tie Event

Whether it’s a charity gala or a fancy wedding, this event asks for glam and elegance! Therefore, shimmery fabrics, imposing gowns, tuxedos, and ornate details will be everywhere you look.

For women, it is best to select a column or A-line dress that fits the requirements. Of course, you can also choose a less shimmery dress, but then accessories must compensate for the lack of glamour.

Now, for many of us, it can be difficult to justify the cost of buying an ultra-elegant dress that will only be useful for one event – but there is a solution for this. For example, if you are invited to participate at a black-tie event in Australia, you might consider dress hire in Sydney, which can be a lower-cost and easy method to get a fantastic gown without getting saddled with it for good.

Cocktail Parties, Engagements and Weddings

In this situation, you have to ask for details about the event, in order to know the dress code. After all, each of these events (especially as daytime events) can range from a small gathering between friends and family to an all-out event.

In short, if it’s a fancier party, you won’t go wrong with “cocktail attire” (a little black dress will go amazingly well). On the other hand, if it’s a more casual event, you will be fine with an elegant top with tailored pants or an classic skirt. The outfit can be paired with heels or fancy flats, depending on your degree of comfort.

As long as you stay away from fabrics considered casual like denim, jersey, or chino, you should be fine.

A Bridal or Baby Shower

These are happy events where people gather to celebrate and feel good. In addition, this means you can be more casual with your choice of clothes (as long as you opt for something with an elegant touch).

These events go well with cute, feminine dresses, large prints, or flowey materials. Of course, you can also wear pants (the more elegant ones) and dust off your cute footwear (heels or flat). Still, keep in mind that, if it’s a bridal shower, white is a big no-no for guests. Of course, it’s best to avoid an all-black outfit as well, since it may send the wrong message.

Wrap Up

Overall, finding the right outfit for an event is all about paying attention to the type of event and the people who will attend. As long as you follow the guidelines and select an outfit that fits your body type, you will fit right in!

March 10, 2021

Geraldina’s Couture Brings Fashion Dreams to Life

Unforgettable gowns for special occasions by Geraldina’s Couture.

The latest collection of exquisite creations by designer Geraldina Shabani for her signature label features her trademark attention to detail, classic silhouettes and outstanding craftsmanship.

Geraldina’s Couture brings over 25 years of high fashion and couture design experience to one-of-a-kind wedding dresses, high-end gowns for special occasions, unforgettable prom dresses, vintage designed garments, and custom-designed clothing.

A native of Albania, now based in Hartsdale, NY near New York City, Geraldina’s design message is “Bring your dream dress to life!” She has had a lifelong vision of artisan fashion, tailored to the unique and specific nature of every wearer through tasteful style and impeccable construction.

Geraldina’s Couture creates one-of-a-kind bridal gowns.

Born into a family of tailors and seamstresses, Geraldina started making her own designs as a teenager, and even designed her own wedding dress. By age 18, she managed a full staff at her uncle’s fabric business in Albania. But the Albanian civil war in the late 1990’s forced Geraldina and her family to flee to Greece, and later to move to the United States.

After moving to New York, Geraldina worked with top fashion houses including Dolce and Gabbana and Peggy Jennings Couture. Geraldina went on to launch her own successful boutique and brand catering to a growing clientele who appreciate the designer’s vision and impeccable workmanship.

Geraldina’s Couture is part of Couture Fashion Week New York’s ongoing ancillary projects to present extraordinary designers from around the world to its audiences and the international press.

Geraldina’s Couture Latest Designs:
Photos | Video | Interview

For more information visit www.GeraldinasCouture.com

March 5, 2021

Our Favorite Valentinos for Spring Weddings in 2021

Whether you’re the bride, the maid of honor, or participating as a guest, you’ll need to make sure you have appropriate footwear. And, given that this aspect can make or break your wedding experience, you also need to choose something comfortable, that will help you dance your way through the night.

Therefore, we think a pair of Valentino shoes may be the best option for such an important and joyous occasion. They are well-designed, gorgeous, and will treat your feet with love and care. Moreover, the range is so wide that anyone can find the right pair of shoes for their needs. But since we’re talking about weddings, let’s have a look at some of the best designs that will work amazingly at events organized this year.

Shoes for the Bride

As the bride, you will be on your feet all night long, dancing, chatting with guests, and making sure everyone is having a good time. Therefore, your shoes must be accommodating and comfortable.

Of course, they must also fit the dress and look good, since you’ll be the center of attention. Still, you have options besides the classic high-heeled stiletto in white. For instance, Valentino has some beautiful ballerina flats that work nicely with floor-length dresses and may become your friends once the party starts (and the official pictures are over). However, if your dress is tea-length or shorter, you may want a pair of elegant heels that fit the dress and help elongate the legs. Luckily, this year’s offerings include a wide range of stilettos in different lengths and designs, so you can have your pick.

Shoes for the Maid of Honor

Since your job is to help the bride navigate the day smoothly, you may have an even tougher time. Not only will you have to look stunning, but you’ll also have to put out fires and run from place to place in order to make sure everything is going well.

So, while you prepare your wedding emergency kit, you may also want to prepare a second pair of shoes for when things calm down. Or, it may be enough to get a pair of block-heeled shoes from Valentino! These shoes are comfortable, easy to accessorize with an elegant dress, and quite in style nowadays.

If block heels are not your style or they don’t fit your dress, the new collection also has a beautiful strap heel design with covered stiletto heel with rubber injection (for extra comfort). They look great on your feet and the straps can accommodate even wide feet.

Shoes for Guests

Since you won’t be on your feet that much and you can always take a rest after a dancing session, your options are wider. Therefore, if you want to look fabulous, you can indulge for one night and wear a pair of high-heeled Valentinos with a pointed toe. They look amazing with both short and tea-length dresses and can easily be the star of your outfit.

If you’re going for something more comfortable but still elegant, we recommend their slingback heels. These shoes have an air of refined style that goes well with a beautiful dress that charms the world through its simplicity. In addition, as the heel is smaller, it will be less problematic to keep them on all night long.

Wrap Up

At the end of the day, all that matters is that you feel good in your outfit and role at the wedding. Luckily, there are plenty of cute shoes in a variety of designs, colors, and heel heights in the new Valentino collection so anyone can have their pick. So, don’t be hasty, especially if you’re buying for your big day!

February 10, 2021

Wedding Day Ready: 10 Items for Your Bridesmaid Emergency Kit

Source: Jacob Lund/Shutterstock.com

Your dearest friend or relative has asked you to be a bridesmaid. And now, you’re in the midst of helping to coordinate a tediously scheduled event, complete with matching bridesmaids’ ensembles, planned bridal showers and a bachelorette party. However, more importantly, a bridesmaid is there to keep the bride calm and collected on her big day. A wedding day stirs up lots of emotions, which can trigger accidents and send the bride into a worry or even a bridezilla-like frenzy.

Luckily, there are many ways to solve unexpected problems that arise while also supporting her and the other bridesmaids as well. And one of these helpful ways is packing a bridesmaid emergency kit. Think of it as a survival kit, but with dress-saving and cosmetic-preserving items that are as handy as a multi-tool Swiss Army knife. Ready to impress the bride and fellow maids as a first-time bridesmaid? While there are many convenient everyday items you pack in a purse that come to mind, there are probably some things you haven’t even considered. Here are 10 items you need to pack in your bridesmaid emergency kit.

1. Teeth Whitening Pen

Before you help the bride on her big day, invest in an at-home teeth whitening kit to get sparkling teeth that will look good in group photos. However, once you set off for a destination wedding or to the local chapel, you’ll need a more compact option. A better on-the-go alternative is a teeth whitening pen, designed to fit directly in a small handbag or even in a pocket. Apply the whitening serum before photos and keep wine and coffee from staining during rehearsal dinner and beyond! Small stain eraser tins are also the perfect size to fit into small clutches.

2. Band-Aids

Source: ARIMAG/Shutterstock.com

Brides ask a lot of their bridesmaids. From wearing coordinated dresses to taking on wedding day tasks, we want to support our best friend or family member so their day goes without a hitch. And heels are just one of these requests and ways to show support (even if the shoe doesn’t).

While they make your outfit look cute, heels can be a real pain, especially after a day of trailing the bride and a night of dancing. So do yourself and other bridesmaids a favor and carry some band-aids and blister protection spray to keep the party going. No bridesmaid wishes to wind up with a blister and hop around or lay low the rest of the wedding.

3. Spray-On Deodorant

Unlike the roll-on or stick variety, spray-on deodorant prevents smudges on dresses. It may also prevent smudges on guests’ dresses as you give a big hug. But aside from visible oopsie-daisies, spray-on deodorant is also a more sanitary option when you need to pass it around. In summer or winter weddings, you’re going to break a sweat, so be sure to pack your bridesmaid emergency kit with spray-on deodorant.

4. Baby Powder

Baby powder is another essential to carry in your bridesmaid emergency kit. Baby powder has many uses, but when it comes to wedding days in particular, it can be a lifesaver. It can keep your armpits and feet feeling dry and fresh. It can also remove grease stains and make your hair appear less oily.

5. Snacks

On the wedding day, your goal is to accompany the bride. And trust us when we say, you’ll be so busy that you may forget to eat! Instead of getting hungry or starting a post-nuptial cocktail hour on an empty stomach, be sure to pack snacks to give you and other bridesmaids the energy boost you need. Stick with protein bars and some nuts to hold yourself over until the hors d’oeuvres are passed around.

6. Vitamin C Boost

Since stress weakens the immune system, add a pack or two of Vitamin C-packed boosters you can sprinkle in a glass of water. It will make you feel 100 percent better tomorrow and the next day, even after a long night of celebrations.

7. Safety Pins and Fashion Tape

Safety pins and fashion tape take up so little room in a bridesmaid emergency kit that you’d be a fool not to bring them! Unexpected rips or tears in garments – from bras to gowns – can ruin an ensemble. Instead of being caught empty-handed, you can use these to make small alterations. Double-sided fashion tape can even help support the girls, avoiding a wardrobe malfunction.

8. Stain Remover Stick

As convenient as a teeth whitening pen, a stain remover stick is excellent for touching up clothes. If you drop something on a dress, simply apply the stain remover and you’ll be good as new.

9. Straws

Source: g_dasha/Shutterstock.com

Professional makeup will have the entire bride tribe looking their best. But when it comes to lipstick, you can keep it protected and on your lips longer with a straw. Pack a reusable straw that you can use all day and night to ensure your carefully applied lipstick doesn’t smear on cups or glasses as you stay hydrated throughout the day.

10. Phone Chargers

Phone chargers are one of those necessary items you might need in your bridesmaid emergency kit. Between helping the bride coordinate with vendors to snapping selfies for memories, your phone’s battery is sure to fade. And when it does, you’ll need to recharge so you can continue the celebrations.

A Handy Bridesmaid Emergency Kit

Think beyond the list above and you’ll come up with many other items. A comb and bobby pins are always useful. Lotion can keep your skin looking silky smooth. More than likely, you’ll have some of the basics already, but start accumulating items for your bridesmaid emergency kit early on and adding to it as you think of new things. Whether you choose to store these items in a fanny pack or tote bag is entirely up to you, so long as it’s glued to your side the entire wedding day.

That way, you’ll be the most prepared bridesmaid, ready to handle the unexpected and save the bride’s big day.

December 28, 2020

How to Prepare for Your Dream Wedding

There’s nothing more special to a man and woman’s life than their wedding day. It should be something that couples work hard for, plan for, and of course, strive for. In this day and age where standards have never been higher, it might be tough trying to achieve that dream wedding. There are just so many things to think about now.

A lot of couples end up getting in petty fights during the pre-wedding planning. It’s a stressful part of their relationship, so it’s not surprising that things can get heated. If your wedding day is coming up, you’ll need to begin preparing as well. That special day only comes once in a lifetime, so it must be as perfect as possible. How does one plan the perfect wedding anyway?

Set A Budget

Weddings can get expensive if you don’t carefully plan them. According to Forbes, weddings are getting more expensive than ever. Just in 2016, the average price for a wedding was up at a high of over $35,000. Within the succeeding years, weddings became more and more expensive due to the increasing costs of services and goods needed.

Even if you have money to spend, you should be wise about how you spend it at your wedding. Work with your significant other to create the budget you need for the special day. Although going all out is enticing for a wedding, keep in mind that you guys still have a future and a family to build ahead of you.

Some of the expenses include wedding rings, dresses, food, and much more. This makes budgeting more essential.

At this part of the wedding planning, you should begin creating a guest list as well. Invite all of your close friends and family to the wedding. By creating a guest list, you can check early on just how much you need for the wedding. If you have some guests flying in from other parts of the world, then you might need to help them get accommodations as well.

Great weddings can be achieved even if you are on a budget. As such, you really need to plan things out first if you are hoping to have a wedding that won’t cost an arm and a leg.

Handle The Wedding Dress Early On

The wedding dress is one of the highlights of a wedding ceremony. The bride only walks down the aisle once, so it is a must to have her wearing the best wedding dress possible. Wedding dresses are delicate and hard to create. As such, it should be one of the things you should account for first.

Wedding dresses take a long time to make, so it should already be in the works months before the wedding. Of course, you should also consider that the bride might want to make some alterations as the months go on, so it is really important to get work on it started right away.

It’s not just the wedding dress you have to worry about. You’ll also have to account for the dresses of the bridesmaids attending the event. Usually, these are made alongside the wedding dress, so they complement the bride well. To make sure that things run smoothly, it’s best to have all of the bridesmaids attend the fitting for the dress.

The wedding dress industry is a $40 billion market. Make sure to take your pick as there’s a lot of stiff competition.

Pick The Date And Location

One of the things you have to contend with is the date and location of your wedding. Keep in mind that you guys aren’t the only couple tying the knot. It’s imperative that you head to the wedding location right away to check their schedule within the coming months. Wedding dates tend to get fully booked fast.

The last thing you’d want is to have your wedding postponed again and again because of scheduling problems. One way you can avoid such matters is by simply scheduling months or even a year before the special day finally arrives.

Of course, the wedding and date of the event are very important which is why scheduling the date ahead is essential for any successful wedding ceremony.

Ready Up The Reception

The reception is where the fun begins at the wedding. It’s basically the party that occurs after you say your I dos. This is one part of the wedding that most couples have a hard time planning because there are a lot of things involved in organizing this fun part of the ceremony. It first begins with the location of the reception.

The reception should not be far from the location of the wedding. In most cases, the wedding and the reception venues are one and the same. You’ll be tasked with picking the design, food, and program for the reception. Ideally, you’d want to hire an organizer for this part of the planning as they could have a better handle on things here.

One aspect of the wedding that you should be hands-on with is the selection of food. You have to take note of preferences, allergies, and whether or not some of your guests are vegan. It’s imperative that you ask for these to ensure that everyone gets to have their tummies filled by the end of the day.

Consider Getting Help

You and your significant other don’t have to be alone when planning a wedding. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your friends or family. If you have the budget for it, hire a professional wedding planner! You don’t have to worry about things not going your way as wedding planners will organize the wedding based solely on your preference.

Wedding planners will also ensure that your wedding stays within your preferred budget. It’s often the better choice to hire a wedding planner because they already have a ton of contacts to help you out.

At the end of the day, you need to remind yourself and your significant other that the wedding is more than about amazing dresses, delicious food, and extravagant designs. It’s also the special day when you are both bonded in holy matrimony and that is perhaps the most important part. Enjoy the planning process as it’s only the beginning of a fruitful relationship.