Archive for the ‘Tips for Brides’ Category

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After the Vows: Changing Your Name

Saturday, October 29th, 2011
Marriage Certificate

Marriage Certificate

After the stress of wedding planning and honeymoon planning, there’s another time-consuming process that can add more stress to already hectic beginnings as husband and wife. When it comes time for the bride to change her name, there’s a myriad of paperwork and government forms that need to be completed to assume her husband’s last name. But an online service at MissNowMrs.com makes the process a little easier.  For $29.95, brides simply fill out automated questionnaire forms on a secure website and then print them with detailed instructions on how and where to file, as well as the required fees. Simplify your life, so you can enjoy being a wife. According to the website: “MissNowMrs.com was designed to simplify the entire married name change process into three easy steps: Questions, Forms, File. We have spoken with every U.S. government and state level office to ensure that our customers receive the correct form with the most accurate filing instructions available. The meticulous research that powers our name change service results in a quick and painless transition from Miss to Mrs.” Check out the beautiful, decorative marriage certificates at Advantage Bridal.  A decorative marriage certificate looks great in a scrapbook and is a cherished wedding memento.

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Bridal Bouquet: To Toss or To Preserve?

Tuesday, October 25th, 2011

If you’re up in the air about whether to toss your bridal bouquet or preserve your wedding keepsake, there are some things to keep in mind. This long-standing wedding tradition has evolved over time – in fact, brides used to toss the garter. The bridal bouquet toss honors wedding tradition, entertains guests and makes an amusing photograph. But like the gorgeous centerpieces that are often given to family and friends by day’s end, your cherished bridal bouquet can become another woman’s token. You can have a smaller bouquet or another bridal keepsake to throw for this Kodak moment; similar to the toss garter, which allows a bride to keep hers for years to come.

Bouquet Toss

Bouquet Toss

For do-it-yourself brides, there are ways to preserve your bridal bouquet at home. Remember hanging beloved flower bouquets upside down in a dark closet for weeks? You can remove moisture with drying agents, such as sand, silica gel or borax, to preserve your own bouquet. Or, you can press flowers and make an arrangement. But paying extra to have your bouquet professionally preserved guarantees a beautiful, lasting result and offers several display options. Bouquet preservation is a laborious process that includes the freeze-dried method or pressing flowers to create a unique wedding keepsake. Keep your budget in mind when choosing the bouquet design. Many bouquet preservation companies offer the following options for your bridal flowers:  shadowboxes, oval frames, pressed flowers, tabletop displays (domes and pyramids) and jewelry boxes. Floral preservation isn’t just for the bridal bouquet, however, it can also be used for wedding boutonnieres, corsages, centerpieces and floral arrangements. In the end, it’s a personal choice and you will have cherished memories either way. Inquire with floral preservation companies, such as Keepsake Floral and Shanel’s Flowers and Frames, prior to deciding whether to toss or keep your bridal bouquet. Check the Internet and with local floral vendors to find a reputable bouquet preservationist. Bouquet jewelry adds sparkle to any wedding flower arrangement, so visit Advantage Bridal to see our wide selection of bridal accessories!

Bridal Bouquet Keepsake

Bridal Bouquet Keepsake

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Footzy Rolls Step Up to the Advantage Bridal.com Product Line

Saturday, October 8th, 2011

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Looking for a comfortable ballet slipper that travels well and is very stylish?  Check out our new Footzyrolls! Footzyrolls are the perfect solution for sore feet emergencies!  All Footzyrolls feature a waterproof, skid proof sole and cleanable upper. They are great for brides and a perfect gift for the wedding party. Each pair comes packaged in a Footzyroll box which includes a shoebag and drawstring pouch.  Available in white, black, silver, gold, and pink, Footzyrolls will find a place in your heart when they are worn on your feet.  Order a pair for your tired feet from AdvantageBridal.com today!

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Save With A Budget Friendly Wedding

Friday, October 7th, 2011
Budget Wedding, Cheap Wedding, Inexpensive Wedding, Save on Wedding

Budget Wedding, Cheap Wedding, Inexpensive Wedding, Save on Wedding

These days, the new trend is not how much you spend on your wedding, but how much you save.  Couples nationwide have proved that it can be done for significantly less than the $27,000 average cost of wedding, without skimping on the details.  Think you can do it?

It’s possible to plan a budget wedding, but you need a plan and discipline to stick to your wedding budget.  Everything else should fall into place.  Remember, the most important aspect of your wedding day is the vows between you and your husband to be; the rest just makes it more special.  The key is to know your budget, stick to it and negotiate with vendors!  They want the business as much as you want what they’re offering.

Planning a budget wedding:

1.  Marry in the off-season on any day but Saturday.

2. Cut the guest list: don’t worry about pleasing distant relatives and acquaintances.

3. Hold the wedding ceremony and wedding reception at the same venue.

4. Larger reception tables means fewer centerpieces and tablecloths.

5. Shop for décor in the off-season or look for great deals with online vendors, such as Advantage Bridal.

6. Use more greenery and in-season flowers.  Skip costly flowers and stick to one or two varieties or go green with potted plants/flowers.

7. Evening weddings cost more and so do dinner menus, but a day wedding with lunch can cut costs in half.

8.  Serve appetizers and drinks rather than the main course.

9.  An open bar equals more money, but a cash bar gives guests the option to drink while footing the bill.  Or, place a bottle of red and white wine on each table and skip the champagne toast.

10.  Serve sheet cake with a smaller, decorated cake for pictures.

11.  DIY invitations (stationary), favors and other wedding accessories take more time, but the payoff is well worth it.

12. Shop bridal trunk shows, revamp a vintage wedding dress or buy a gently used gown for significantly less.

13.  Photographers cost a pretty penny, but there are definitely ways to save here and still get quality photos.  You don’t really need two photographers, which skyrockets costs.  Or ask about using a photographer’s assistant instead.

14.  Look for entertainment vendors willing to bargain.  Many universities have student musicians who can play at your wedding for less than traditional vendors (ask the music department for a list).

15.  Skip the extras!  You might feel like you must have it, but sometimes less is more.

You are only limited by your imagination when planning an unforgettable but budget friendly wedding.  Advantage Bridal is recognized as one of the top online vendors with great customer service and value.  We want you to enjoy the wedding of your dreams. Search our website for wedding ideas and great deals on wedding invitations, bridal accessories, bridal party gifts, flower girl baskets, bridal shoes, wedding flip flops, bridal garters, bridal head pieces and much, much more.  We sell almost everything but the dress!

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Aisle News: 2012 Wedding Trends

Sunday, August 7th, 2011
Wedding Trends

Photo: Weddings by Lilly

Brides want their wedding affair to be as unique as they are and this thinking sets new bridal trends in 2012.

Wedding palettes combine bright colors with staple neutrals: Warm bamboo, honeysuckle pink, cedar green, deep teal, purple‐hued phlox, coffee liqueur, warm camel nougat and quarry are top shades for the upcoming season.

Wedding dresses feature lots of lace, thanks to the royal wedding, along with ruffles, beading and sashes. White takes a back seat to other hues like soft beige, light blues, pink and even soft‐toned greens being introduced into the finest bridal lines. Bridal gowns are sleek and sophisticated, opposite of the traditional ball gown.

Vintage wedding elements are still strong, especially for brides wanting a truly one-of-a-kind dress. Couples are seeking unique venues, such as old buildings and re-purposed spaces (old train stations, raw factory space and combinations of indoor and outdoor spaces). Local farms and vineyards provide rustic charm with enless outdoor photo opportunities. Wedding environments are more laid back. Natural settings are popular locations: Beaches, parks, backyards and other outdoor settings.

Birdcage veils have been in style for many seasons now and feather fascinators have gained momentum with the royal wedding. The edgy, over-the-top headpiece provides plenty of style. Headbands and feathers are modern options to a traditional veil. No bride will be bare-headed in 2012, with everything from glittering tiaras to extra-large flowers in contrasting tones.

Dyeable wedding shoes in bold red, purple or blue peek from under the wedding dress. Shoe clips add sparkle and glam. Other ideas include button or feather boutonnieres, multi‐mini cakes as centerpieces and catering carts – martini bars, crepe stations, sundae bars, pastry tables and lemonade stands.

Photo booths continue to be a popular feature for guests. Social media is center stage with computer stations being setup for guests to leave comments. Webcasting to guests who couldn’t attend the day is heartfelt and, as the day unfolds, hash tags for Twitter are in sync with today’s online culture.

Venues should expect requests for longer cocktail hours, rental companies will see an increase for lounge furniture and guests can expect the unexpected. Wedding ceremonies steadily increase in personalization, focusing on the couple’s interests, hobbies and passions as part of the wedding day celebrations. Vows are being written and choreographed by couples with assistance from an officiant. Themes such as vintage, diamonds/pearls, romance, garden style, retro 50, 70’s and eco-friendly are huge.

Wedding cakes are bold this year and two-layered cakes are back with different height tiers. Cupcakes are still huge, with innovative flavors and colors. Grooms are more involved in the planning with their brides, and they are contributing their time and ideas into their day. No longer is the bride-to-be the sole planner.

The 2012 wedding season will find couples saying, “I Do” in a world of different ways. Many will continue partying well into the night with an after party, which is becoming a popular trend. This party has no rules or wedding checklists and is entirely up to the couple.

2012 Wedding Trends courtesy of the Wedding Guide.

 

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Brides.com Launches Virtual Dressing Room

Thursday, August 4th, 2011

Brides Virtual Dressing Room Photo: Brides.com

BRIDES.com announces the launch of Brides Dressing Room, a realistic simulation tool for brides-to-be to virtually try on hundreds of gowns using her own full body photo.  The simulation tool uses revolutionary body remapping technology, which automatically conforms dresses to realistically match any body shape, posture or size.  Users are able to link directly to a salon to make an appointment or purchase.

Brides can also “try on” virtual makeup, skin care and hairstyles with Brides Beauty Salon.

These one-of-a-kind tools were created by ModiFace and can be found at Brides.com.

“The BRIDES Dressing Room and Beauty Salon take online shopping to a whole new level, helping even the busiest bridal parties determine their wedding-day style to make confident and informed purchasing decisions. Virtual try-ons allow brides and bridesmaids the opportunity to vet their style in the privacy of their own homes allowing for a more focused shopping experience when they arrive in stores,” states BRIDES VP/Publisher Carolyn Kremins.

Lord & Taylor is the launch sponsor of BRIDES Dressing Room, providing a custom closet featuring wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses and mother-of-the-bride ensembles.

Brides can follow a few simple steps to enter the virtual dressing room.  Once a photo is uploaded or a model selected, visitors can select from wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses and mother-of-the-bride styles.  Then they can share favorite looks – complete with hair and makeup – with the entire bridal party before the big day.  These tools help ease wedding planning worries for friends and family who live across cities, states and continents.

Then, visit your one-stop shop for bridal accessories and wedding accessories at AdvantageBridal.com, where we carry everything but the dress!  Our custom wedding accessories and personalized bridesmaid gifts let you do all your shopping in one place – without leaving your home!  Our top-notch customer service is perfect for the busy bride, who might need some advice along the way.

 

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Planning Tips: Questions To Ask Wedding Vendors

Sunday, July 10th, 2011

Purse-Size Pink Wedding Planner $9.95

Get Married‘s article provides some valuable information when working with wedding vendors. Knowing what to ask can save you time, money and headaches down the road. So do your research first and learn the art of negotiation. Read these tips from Get Married and check out wedding planning books and organizers at Advantage Bridal.

Be prepared before booking an appointment with a vendor. Bring questions and a notepad (or an iPad). Get contact info for follow-up questions.

But what should you cover during the initial meeting? Here are the top five suggestions to ask vendors:

1. What Do You Offer? Despite how obvious this may seem, many vendors have affiliations or upgrades you may not find on their website. For example, your photographer may offer a free engagement shoot if you book a package with them, or your venue may offer a discount with a local cake vendor if you sign on the dotted line. Always make sure to ask about professional partnerships, free delivery, package deals and referral programs that may be available.

2. What Dates Are You Available? Though you may have your heart set on a specific date, try to be flexible if you want to save some money. If a Saturday slot is booked, consider a Friday affair for less money. Better yet, if the other bride wants tents for her ceremony at the same venue, you can probably secure the same tents for a reduced cost or even free, since it saves the venue time and money putting them up the night before.

3. How Soon Do You Need a Deposit? Today, tomorrow, in a week? If you’re planning a wedding during peak season, be prepared to pay up front. Vendors can handlle  a certain number of requests, so don’t be surprised to find they’re already booked if you wait too long. Also, ask about payment plan options if you need them. While not every vendor will be open to this proposition, some might welcome the opportunity to work with you (especially with referrals).

4. Are These Prices Set in Stone? There’s always room for negotiation – especially if you’re having a big wedding and spending a lot with one vendor. While you might not be able to cut costs in every situation, you could get some added perks.

5. Can We Have a List of References? Don’t just go by the vendor’s website – ask for references you can call. Was the vendor helpful during your planning process? Did they call you back in a timely manner when you had questions? Did their offerings match what you requested? Were there any secret upcharges or fees they didn’t make you aware of before you signed a contract? This information should be gathered before booking signing a contract or giving a deposit. And, if you run into a vendor who is unwilling to share references until you sign on the dotted line, find someone else.

Blue Bridal Organizer $17.95

 

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Are You A Shoeaholic?

Thursday, June 9th, 2011

Arbie Goodfellow Couture: Fluer

Shoeaholics, be warned: Shopping for bridal shoes could rekindle your obsession! Just check out this guest blogger post at Martha Stewart Weddings, in addition to these black and white Chanel heels at Merci New York.

Shopping for wedding shoes is almost as fun as choosing your wedding dress. The right shoes will look fantastic with your gown and in pictures.

While style is key, comfort shouldn’t be overlooked.

From the time you slip into your gown until your last dance, you’ll be on your feet more hours than you may realize.

Choosing the right pair:

  • The style of your wedding shoes should complement your gown. You don’t want them to clash with or overpower your bridal ensemble.
  • Consider the venue before selecting high heels – you’ll get caught in the grass in stilettos. Wear wedge shoes or square heels, bridal flats or sandals for an outdoor venue or beach wedding.
  • Pick a heel height you’re comfortable wearing. If you don’t wear heels, practice wearing them around the house until you feel OK.
  • Break your shoes in or you could suffer later. Shoe inserts and pads help make heels more comfortable.
  • Choose a pair you love! If you love stilettos, get them and then have a backup pair of flats for the reception.

Selecting color:

  • Traditional brides lean toward ivory or white heels to match their gown.
  • Modern brides opt for bold colors, statement heels or designer shoes they can wear after the wedding.
  • Keep in mind; colors vary so view it in the correct lighting.
  • Dyeable shoes are a great choice for custom colors. Make sure fabric samples are at least 2” x 2” for the best match.
  • For Dyeables, ask about the cast of the color and examine the shoe in a light box. Achieving an exact match might be difficult, so pick a complementary color instead.

Save or splurge:

  • There are plenty of options for bridal shoes under $100 or wedding shoes under $50 on the market, but don’t forget comfort.
  • Affordable shoes are fine since you’ll only wear them once. You can also find a pair you’ll wear again that don’t say “bride.”
  • Shop designer and couture bridal shoes if it’s time to splurge. You’ll be amazed at the details, quality and unique styles available.

If you had more fun shopping for shoes than you did shopping for your dress, send pics of your fabulous footwear to Advantage Bridal so we can see why! Confessions of a shoeaholic will be kept anonymous :)

Arbie Goodfellow Bridal Shoes: Swan

Jen and Kim Luna Wedding Shoes

Wedding Shoes

Paradox London Bridal Shoes: Electra

Cheap Wedding Shoes

Allure Bridals: Powder Blue Bridal Heels

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Upcoming Bridal Trunk Shows: Claire Pettibone

Wednesday, June 8th, 2011

Finding the perfect wedding dress ranks high on a bride‘s priority list. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect dress, try a trunk show to see designer gowns a bridal salon might not carry. You can also speak with the designer or rep to discuss specifics of your gown, and many offer discounts for ordering on the spot.

The Knot offers some tips for tackling a bridal trunk show. The biggest benefit of attending one is seeing bridal collections not always available at the store. With a flagship location in Beverly Hills, Claire Pettibone (CP) bridal gowns will make any bride gaga.

Couture Bridal Gowns

Claire Pettibone Bridal: Emmeline

Pair a couture wedding dress with couture jewelry or designer wedding shoes at Advantage Bridal. If you’re buying an off-rack gown, dress it up with couture bridal accessories to complete your look – you won’t be disappointed with our vast selection.

There are 15 gowns in Claire Pettibone’s spring collection and 5 in the fall, as well as the full line of dresses in the continuing collection. The gowns are über gorgeous and we suggest you check out the full collection on the CP website.

Even if they exceed your bridal gown budget, they’ll provide plenty of inspiration and may help lead you to the one. They also have select sample gowns at deep discounts or you can shop for previously worn Pettibone dresses for even greater savings.

The following are upcoming bridal trunk shows for Claire Pettibone:

Claire Pettibone couture bridal boasts a beautiful 2011 fall collection.

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How A Bride Becomes Bridezilla

Friday, June 3rd, 2011
Becoming Bridezilla

A bride becomes Bridezilla over time until, one day, she’s so comfortable in her new role she forgets the sweet girlfriend she used to be.

Bridezillas on WeTV makes some brides look not so nice (of course, that’s a sugar-coated statement). Decide what type of bride you want to be during the wedding planning process, and learn to let things go. Why?

Because a bride taking on the persona of giant sea monster named Godzilla is a frightening thought. And you’ll scare those closest to you with the “it’s all about me” attitude that surfaced once the engagement ring was on.

5 tips to avoid becoming Bridezilla:

  • Decide to plan a stress-free wedding.
  • Forgive and forget.
  • Always have back-up options.
  • Communicate calmly and honestly.
  • Remember, two of you are getting married.

For some brides-to-be, this is easier said than done. If you’re a Type A personality or you simply want things done your way – now, then the road to success might be a little rocky. But it can be done.

Reflect on why you said “yes” to your honey in the first place. Write down your feelings in a journal rather than hash out on others. Exercise: Try yoga, long walks or a gym class to get your mind off the wedding. Vent to a bridesmaid or friend, but don’t overwhelm them.

More important than the planning is the ceremony itself. The vows unite you as husband and wife. Yes, we all want a flawless affair, a memorable event, a to-die-for reception, but don’t you want to marry the man of your dreams more than anything?

Hopefully, the population of Bridezillas will die off over time (figuratively speaking) and the beautiful brides men fell in love with will take their place. That depends on you, of course.

If you’re a bridesmaid or relative of a bridal monster, CNN offers these tips.

Novelist Ayn Rand perhaps unintentionally paid tribute to Bridezilla in this quote: “The question isn’t who is going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me.”

And that type of thinking is how a bride becomes Bridezilla. . .

 

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