Posts Tagged ‘royal wedding’

Prince William’s Royal Wedding Attire

Monday, March 19th, 2012

Prince William Escorts Kate Middleton in RAF Uniform

Royal watchers continue to speculate about what type of wedding gown future princess Kate Middleton will wear on her wedding day, but what about the dapper Prince William? Following in the footsteps of his father, Prince Charles, and other royal predecessors, the future king of the United Kingdom will wed in military uniform. But which one?

Prince William’s military career began at Sandhurst Military Academy, and he retains commissions in all of the Armed Forces in which he will one day head.  He is currently a helicopter pilot with the RAF Search and Rescue Force. Prince William’s military attire includes uniforms for the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy and Household Calvary. Royal commentator Marilyn Braun provides details on his military dress options. Most speculators believe he will wear an RAF uniform tailored by Savile Row tailors Gieves & Hawkes.

We know his dress will complement Kate Middleton’s bridal ensemble perfectly and will be formally accessorized for the wedding of the 21st Century – perhaps wearing a hat and gloves like his father did when he married Princess Diana.

For brides and grooms serving in the military, Advantage Bridal offers military wedding accessories, garters, camo tanks, apparel, cake toppers and more to honor your heroic efforts.

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Royal Wedding Procession Via Horses & Carriages

Friday, March 9th, 2012

Photo: Associated Press

Following the royal wedding of Kate Middleton and Prince William, the two will be escorted in the same carriage Prince Charles and Princess Diana rode on their wedding day in 1981. The historic carriage – called the 1902 State Landau – will carry the Prince and Princess so long as the weather remains fair. But if poor weather prevails, Kate Middleton and Prince William will be transported in the Glass Coach, which was built in 1881. Lady Diana Spencer arrived at St. Paul’s Cathedral in the Glass Coach, but Kate will arrive  at the Westminster Abbey via Rolls Royce.

Horses, carriages, limos and Rolls Royce luxury automobiles are the transportation of choice for members of the royal family and guests to the wedding of the decade on April 29, 2011. The Head Royal Coachman Mark Hargreaves will carry Her Majesty the Queen.

According to the British Monarchy: Most Royal marriages are solemnised by the Archbishop of Canterbury, with carriage processions taking the royal couple and members of the royal family to and from the marriage venue. During the ceremony, the royal family traditionally sits on the right-hand side of the church. Westminster Abbey became a popular venue for royal weddings when Princess Patricia of Connaught chose it for her marriage to the Honourable Alexander Ramsay in 1919. It was the first time for 650 years that the Abbey had been used for a royal wedding.

For your fairy tale wedding or royal wedding theme, visit Advantage Bridal.

Photo: Associated Press

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Iconic Brides Still Inspire

Friday, January 13th, 2012

Formal Wedding Portrait of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy, 1953. Photo: John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

Despite bridal fashion becoming global and trends that come and go, modern brides are still inspired by some of the most glamorous and infamous style icons of past and present, such as Princess Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, Princess Diana, Jacqueline Kennedy, Ivanka Trump, Princess Charlene of Monaco and Catherine Middleton.

Celebrity weddings are also a source of inspiration for today’s brides, with magazines paying mega bucks to publish pics of the extravagant affair. So, what can we expect for 2012 bridal trends?

Royal weddings and royal brides always cause a stir, and maybe it’s because of the fairy tale stories we remember as children. The idea of a prince and princess marrying seems surreal in a modern world, but royal families still prevail in many places. And  last year, all eyes were set on two momentous royal weddings between Prince William and Catherine Middleton and Prince Albert and Charlene Wittstock.

Color: Bold is in (think Pantone’s color of the year – tangerine tango). Expect to see vibrant bouquets, decor accents and accessories.

Illusion Neckline: Strapless style wedding gowns with a sheer fabric neckline adds a romantic, elegant flair.

Unique Headpieces: Veils and tiaras gain popularity when a princess-to-be says, “I Do.” But other headpieces, such as bridal hats, feather fascinators and unique hair accessories will continue to be seen down the aisle this year.

Traditional Twist: Wedding dresses in off-white, champagne or pales hues have hit the runway, while Disney has launched a princess inspired bridal gown collection.

Ruffles & Lace: Lace sleeves, embellished veils, layers and ruffles are making a comeback on wedding dresses.

Crystals Galore: Brides are enamored with rhinestone tiaras, crystal accents, dazzling jewelry and sparkles here and there. After all, it’s their day to shine!

Regardless of this year’s wedding trends, brides-to-be will always look to fashion icons of past and present. In essence, following the style of an iconic bride will create a timeless and classic look that’s not trendy at all. Make a statement by combining classic and modern elements.

 

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Prince & Princess Wedding Dolls Hit The Shelves

Thursday, August 18th, 2011

Collector's Edition Royal Wedding Dolls by Arklu

Shop for unique gifts and personalized gifts for everyone in your bridal party at AdvantageBridal.com. You can order custom rhinestone tank tops, towels, totes, cosmetic bags, bathing suits and more at our one-stop shop for everything wedding related – even items for princess brides. For royal wedding fans and doll collectors, a popular UK toy developer recently debuted collector’s edition royal wedding dolls.

Fashion designers, toymakers and souvenir manufacturers waited with bated breath for the royal wedding of Prince William and Princess Catherine Middleton.

With all the pomp and circumstance surrounding one of the most anticipated royal weddings of the 21st century, it was only a matter of time before replica dolls of the prince and princess hit the shelves.

What do you think? Would you want to have a replica doll of you as the bride and your groom? Many couples choose cake toppers that resemble them in some respect, but this takes it to another level.

Soon after Arklu released the Princess Catherine Engagement Doll, it announced the release of the exclusive Princess Catherine Wedding Doll and Prince William Wedding Doll. London toy store Hamley revealed the new dolls on August 18 to a crowd of royal fans and toy collectors.

Arklus launched two products: An individual Princess Catherine Doll and a box set containing the Princess Catherine Doll and the Prince William Doll as a couple.

“The dolls will again celebrate the very best of authentic British fashion and design.”

For every unit sold, Arklu will donate £1 to the RNLI, to reflect the roryal couple’s first joint official public engagement to launch a lifeboat at the RNLI base at Trearddur Bay, in Anglesey, North Wales.

Okay, we admit that we were a little obsessed with the royal wedding, too. That’s why AdvantageBridal.com offers Kate Middleton inspired wedding earrings, along with a large selection of rhinestone tiaras and traditional veils. Look like a princess bride on your wedding day with affordable bridal accessories that resemble the real thing!

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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Limited Edition Bridesmaid Gowns & Flower Girl Dresses Inspired by Royal Wedding

Tuesday, August 2nd, 2011

Designs Inspired by Pippa Middleton Bridesmaid Dress & Evening Gown

It was only a matter of time before formalwear fashion designers launched their creations following the royal wedding of Kate Middleton and Prince William. And while many gushed over the elaborate, elegant, lace bridal gown worn by the new princess, her sister and maid of honor Pippa Middleton attracted as much attention as the bride herself.

Debenhams is offering a limited edition bridesmaid dress and evening gown inspired by Pippa Middleton sometime this year. The company expects demand to be high when the ivory bridesmaid gown and emerald green evening dress hit the market – priced at 170 pounds and 99 pounds, respectively. Even the ivory flower girl dresses with lace trim, puff sleeves and a pale gold sash – inspired by the royal wedding’s flower girls – will be offered later this year.

They could sell out before the gowns even hit the retail stores, so contact ladyinwaitinglist@debenhams.com to check for availability.

Debenhams attributes the royal wedding and breathtaking bridal party as the inspiration behind “all of these fabulous yet affordable dresses.”

“Both men and women everywhere were instantly talking about Pippa, so naturally brides-to-be will want to emulate her classic look – both for themselves or their bridesmaids. We have been inundated by customers asking if we have anything similar to the dresses worn by Kate, Pippa and the flower girls, but the ivory dress worn by Pippa is the most requested by far,” notes a company press release.

To complete the look of a regal bride, shop Advantage Bridal for princess bride accessories, couture wedding shoes, rhinestone tiaras, designer jewelry and elegant veils. Bel Aire Bridal, one of our vendors that makes stunning bridal headpieces, launched its version of Kate Middleton’s royal tiara. Yes, you can look like a princess bride without spending a fortune and celebrate your own “royal” wedding.

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Monaco Celebrates Royal Wedding of Prince Albert II & Princess Charlene

Tuesday, July 5th, 2011

Despite Monaco‘s small footprint along the Mediterranean Sea coastline, residents and visitors of the principality enjoyed a historic event. Prince Albert II and Charlene Wittstock married in a civil ceremony on July 1, but celebrations for the royal wedding began before. Thursday evening, the Eagles entertained royal wedding residents, citizens and guests at the Louis II Stadium. The prince and princess exchanged vows in civil ceremony on Friday, followed by a religious wedding on Saturday.

The prince and princess wed in the palace Throne Room before appearing on the balcony  to greet crowds watching the televised event . . .

Monaco Royal Wedding

On the balcony of the Salon des Glaces to salute the Monegasques . . .

Prince and Princess of Monaco

During the religious ceremony in the palace’s main courtyard, which began at 5 pm on Saturday, July 2 . . .

Monaco Royalty

The adorable maids of honor in costumes by the Ballets de Monte-Carlo . . .

 

Royal Wedding Party

The prince kisses his princess bride . . .

 

Princess Bride

The royal couple is all smiles walking down the aisle as white rose petals are tossed . . .

Prince and Princess of Monaco

To shop for Princess Bride accessories, such as rhinestone tiaras, couture bridal shoes and embroidered veils, visit Advantage Bridal.

 

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Calling All Royal Wedding Fans…

Monday, June 13th, 2011
Royal Wedding

The Duke & Duchess of Cambridge grace the cover of Vanity Fair's July issue. Photo by Mario Testino

Catherine Middleton – aka the Duchess of Cambridge – became a fashion icon in her gorgeous bridal gown designed by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen. The gown and other items are on display at Buckingham Palace from July 23 to October 3, 2011.

If you’re planning a vacation in London and want to see the royal wedding dress, bridal accessories and even the wedding cake, you can tour the Queen’s palace this summer to see the craftsmanship that went into making the dress for the Duchess of Cambridge.

The royal wedding display includes the veil appliquéd with lace rose, thistle, daffodil and shamrock motifs; the Queen’s 1936 Cartier tiara; and the satin and lace shoes also made by the team at Alexander McQueen and hand-embroidered by the Royal School of Needlework.

The Duchess’ diamond oak leaf and acorn earrings will be displayed with her bridal ensemble. The earrings incorporated the Middleton family’s new coat of arms and were a wedding gift from Kate’s parents.

They didn’t forget about the royal wedding cake – a tiered fruit cake decorated with sugar flowers created by Fiona Cairns – which will be shown in the palace’s state dining room.

If you’re a fan of the royal family or want to admire the royal wedding accessories in person, then this summer is your chance. Images and videos fail to capture the intricate details of the gown, tiara, jewelry and shoes.

You can always shop Advantage Bridal to plan your own royal wedding affair – complete with rhinestone jewelry, custom accessories, couture wedding shoes, favors and much more! We’re the one stop shop for brides and weddings.

 

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Military Wedding Ideas

Wednesday, June 1st, 2011

Intimate Weddings Photo: Isabel March

Okay, so wedding planning isn’t as easy as it sounds. In fact, it can be stressful, time consuming and costly. But that’s why we’re here to help all you brides-to-be as much as possible, so you can have fun in the process and find everything you need at Advantage Bridal. When plannning an Army wedding, Navy wedding, Marine wedding or any military wedding, timing is critical. Picking a wedding date and location are likely two of your biggest obstacles, especially if you or your future hubby are on active duty in the U.S. or deployed to another country. Then, there are the unique elements when planning military weddings, such as wedding invitation etiquette (rank/title), military traditions and military wedding attire (we all remember how handsome Prince William looked in uniform at the royal wedding).

Check with your community and municipality to see about possible discounts for public wedding venues. Designated areas at public parks and beaches can be rented for a nominal fee, and many boast beautiful views and an arbor. If you’re a military bride or military groom, chances are you’re on a tight budget and timeline. Ask family and friends to help with planning your military wedding. Maybe they have a large backyard or a clubhouse in their housing track that can be rented for a small fee. Also, it might be practical to get married at the courthouse and plan the reception later that day or at another time (we’ve seen pictures of classy court weddings). Military weddings don’t have to break the bank. You can incorporate tradition and honor your service to our country in an elegant, understated way. Some military brides opt for navy blue bridesmaid dresses. Check out TheKnot for pictures and ideas of real military weddings.

Advantage Bridal offers wedding theme ideas, navy blue wedding accessories, patriotic wedding accessories and our military wedding collection, which includes military wedding toasting glasses, camo bridal garters and camoflauge wedding accessories.

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Kim Kardashian Wows With $2 Million Diamond Engagement Ring

Wednesday, May 25th, 2011

Kardashian Celebrity Wedding

Kim Kardashian‘s 20.5 carat engagement ring – umm, mega rock – is said to be worth $2 million. Wow . . . we are speechless! The 30-year-old reality star, who has been seen shopping for engagement rings solo, is officially engaged to NBA player Kris Humphries, 26. TMZ reports the Lorraine Schwartz diamond ring “features a 16.5 carat emerald cut center stone flanked by two 2-carat trapezoids.”

New Jersey Nets forward Kris Humphries proposed to the famous Kardashian at her Beverly Hills home on May 18. He popped the question by laying rose petals on her bedroom floor that read, “Will you marry me?” The two have been dating for six months and the Kardashian clan, including sisters Khloe and Kourtney and mom Kris Jenner, are announcing their excitement via Twitter. Read Kim’s lovey-dovey Tweets to her new fiancé.

Another celebrity couple will soon walk down the aisle and we have a feeling it’s going to be an over-the-top affair! America’s version of a royal wedding – Hollywood style. To plan your own extravagent affair or intimate gathering, visit Advantage Bridal for your all your wedding needs. We carry bridal accessories, such as garters, veils, rhinestone tiaras, wedding shoes, lingerie, and items for the bridal party. Advantage Bridal also offers personalized gifts, bridesmaid gifts, groom gifts and more. Congrats to the newly engaged Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries!