Archive for September, 2009

Wedding City Guide: Getting Married in Austin, Texas

Tuesday, September 29th, 2009

Austinite brides…ready to kick up your cowboy boots and start planning a wedding?  We thought so.  After surrendering to the heat and everything, planning a wedding is just what the city ordered.

Where to Wed

First things first.  When planning a wedding in Austin, it all begins with the where.  Ah yes, the venue.  So depending on your mood, consider Barr Mansion. An ornate mansion situated on stunning scenic grounds, this venue is enormous and therefore a great location for a large wedding with a lot of guests. The size of the venue also provides many unique locations for a ceremony and reception.

For a more down home feel, plan a bbq themed event at the Salt Lick.  An Austin favorite, we love the the grounds even at night.  They also have a more formal event space.

The La Villa Vista is a Bed and Breakfast which is located on Lake Travis which is just a 25 minute drive outside of downtown Austin. The Villa itself is charming, with a European look and vibe. Not only are the resort grounds and accommodations luxuriously decorated for utmost comfort, but the Villa also has balcony views of the gorgeous Lake Travis. The views of Lake Travis from the La Villa Vista resort can be seen from the pool deck and balconies, and are breathtakingly beautiful. The lake is the perfect backdrop for wedding pictures. The resort is on the smaller side, and can sleep 12 guests, making this the perfect location for a more intimate wedding. The Villa recommends bringing in photographers, florists and caterers which are chosen by the bride and groom for more flexibility.

Palm Door is a spacious indoor/outdoor venue which is specifically designed for holding parties and weddings. Pink Avocado is the caterer for Palm Door and can prepare a meal for the rehearsal dinner as well as cater the food and liquor for the wedding. The indoor room has 14 foot ceilings and can accommodate larger weddings, as the main room can hold 300 people standing or 150 people sitting down at tables. There are outdoor decks which overlook Waller Creek and can hold an additional 50 people standing up. The indoor room at the venue is liberal with the decorating policies, allowing small nails in the walls for hanging or draping art and fabrics or streamers. The venue encourages the wedding party to decorate the venue however they see fit.

What to Feed

Ok.  You don’t have to spend hours and hours sifting through Austin eateries to know that Pink Avocado Catering (can you tell we really love them!) may be one of the most inventive places around town.  From the colorful displays to their cool plating, we like that they think outside the box.  This company is perfect if you are looking for a catering company for a home spun event or a place where you have to bring in your own catering.

Also, think about inventive small bites like Austin Cake Balls. These little delightful small bites of cake are the perfect eats for brides looking to save a little  money.  Ask for Jennifer the owner and tell her Paratinovia sent you!

What to Wear

For those of you who want to find beautiful gowns from anywhere in the globe, head to Alexia Gavela for a little help from Geri and Alejandra the owners.  They will take such good care of you.

Wedding Color Inspiration Board #11: Navy, Green, Sand & White

Tuesday, September 29th, 2009

Want to fall in love with a color palette for your beach inspired wedding?  This incredible palette of sand, indigo/navy, green and white is incredible whether you are getting married on the sandy beaches of San Diego, Sao Paolo or even San Luis Obispo.  Navy and green against the white and sand are crisp accents for any table.  Just take a peek.

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Food Decor

This crisp glass food tray is a perfect way to offset the colors of the navy and green.  It also allows the bride and groom to introduce colors that would otherwise not go with the color scheme.

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Table Decor

You don’t have to get locked into to just certain combinations of color.  This bride allowed herself to experiment!  Bringing in pops of fuschia into the food and flowers for added bold color.

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We love the rock placements and the navy blue wine globlets.  Talk to your rental company or caterer about how to introduce color through the plates and glasses.  Talk about simple but bold impact.  These goblets really anchor the table. We also love the simplicity of the cimbidium orchids.

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Tip of the Day: Accessorize Your Bouquet

Monday, September 28th, 2009

Looking for different ways to accessorize your bouquet and the bridesmaids bouquet?  Consider using diferent ribbons, crystals, pearls, charms or even a rosary to add some depth to your bouquet or even your bridesmaids bouquets.

Pearls & Jewelry

How gorgeous is this amazing bouquet with a strand of pearls and a charm.  You don’t need to go overboard, little touches can make huge difference.  Also, remember that you don’t have to adorn the bouquet with the real thing.  Do some research online for easy and affordable strands of pearls or chains that fit within your budget.

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Dangle ribbons and more flowers

The flowers and adornment don’t have to end with the bouquet.  We love this adorable set of bouquets where the bridesmaids and the bride had extra cymbidium orchids dangling from their bouquets.

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3 New Fall Bouquet Ideas: Orange, Purple and White

Sunday, September 27th, 2009

Now that we are heading into fall, why not fall in love with some new bouquets to help you get inspired for your initial consult with your florist.  Here are some great ideas, from simple and chic orchids, to purple wildflowers, to crisp peonies {Did we say fall? well peonies might be a little difficult to secure in the fall, that is unless you live in South America and it is spring!}

A simple monochromatic look

Consider using simple but hearty flowers like the orchid which can but gathered in a beautiful monochromatic bunch like this one below.

Florals by Fiore Designs

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Whimsical Colors

Or consider a bouquet of whimsical proportions like these incredible flowers which blend all different hues of purple, white and green together beautifully.

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Go for it!

We also wanted to show you this incredible all white lush bouquet of gardenias.  A beautiful (and pricey) option for those of you willing to splurge on florals for the big day.

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Best Wedding Toast Ever – Check out This Incredible Musical Toast

Saturday, September 26th, 2009

Ok, check out this amazing toast to a woman that clearly loves musical theatre.

J. Crew Silk Tricotine Lyden Gown

Friday, September 25th, 2009

Sleek, sophisticated glamour of the old-Hollywood variety in pure midweight silk tricotine. Features a shirred, fitted V-neck bodice and crossover back, with a Watteau train and french bustling detail. The slim, bias-cut skirt is slightly longer in back. Sleeveless. Self-covered buttons at side seam. Fully lined in silk charmeuse. Falls to floor. Import. Dry clean. Specially packaged in a custom-made box to ensure your gown is always as beautiful as the first day you wore it. $750.00.

Courtesy of J. Crew

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J. Crew Camille Cotton-Silk Gown

Friday, September 25th, 2009

So simple, it’s stunning. Lightweight Italian cotton/silk is carefully pleated and falls gracefully to the ground. Delicate details—like covered buttons in the back and a flowing, self-tie sash—make this understated gown perfect for a beachfront or garden wedding. Skinny straps. Fitted bodice, full skirt with allover pleats. Empire waist. Covered buttons at center back for closure. Fully lined. Falls to the floor; 45″ from natural waist. Import. Dry clean. Specially packaged in a custom-made box to ensure your dress is always as beautiful as the first day you wore it. $650.00.

Courtesy of J. Crew

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J. Crew Silk Tricotine Robin Long Dress

Friday, September 25th, 2009

Understated elegance with simple, clean lines in midweight silk tricotine, a fabric we chose for its subtle lustre and lovely drape. This dress features a flattering cowlneck with an A-line skirt that falls to the floor. Covered-button closure at side. Fully lined. Import. Dry clean. $325.00.

Courtesy of J. Crew

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J. Crew Slub Silk Penelope Gown

Friday, September 25th, 2009

Romantic and refined—we’ve fallen in love with this silk gown. Our designers detailed the high, pleated neckline with a fabric flower and the fitted bodice with pleating down the center front. The slight A-line skirt features two sets of pleats in front. Halter silhouette. Pleated waistband. Keyhole at back neck with hook-and-eye closure. Grosgrain-covered buttons at back. Fully lined. Falls to floor with a slight train. Import. Dry clean. Specially packaged in a custom-made box to ensure your gown is always as beautiful as the first day you wore it. $695.00.

Courtesy of J. Crew

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J. Crew Silk Taffeta Sascha Gown

Friday, September 25th, 2009

A simple and sophisticated style sweetened with a self-sash at the waist, with silk taffeta flowers. This beautiful midweight silk taffeta gown boasts a strapless silhouette, a fitted, boudoir-inspired bodice with boning and a notched sweetheart neckline. Its full skirt is fully lined and features a tulle underskirt for added body. On-seam pockets. Back zip with covered buttons. Interior silk faille corset for added support. Falls to floor; 45″ from natural waist. Import. Dry clean. Specially packaged in a custom-made box to ensure your gown is always as beautiful as the first day you wore it. $1,500.00.

Courtesy of J. Crew

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J. Crew Genevieve Silk Radzimir Gown

Friday, September 25th, 2009

Pure magic in a very rare fabric usually reserved for royal weddings and haute couture—so rare, we could make only a few of these beautiful dresses. Luxurious midweight Italian silk radzimir with delicate spaghetti straps. Fitted bodice, full skirt with inverted box pleats and shirring for volume. Hidden on-seam pockets. Back zip hidden with self-covered buttons. Fully lined. Falls to floor. Part of the J.Crew Collection. Import. Dry clean. Specially packaged in a custom-made box to ensure your gown is always as beautiful as the first day you wore it. $1,950.00.

Courtesy of J. Crew

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J. Crew Silk Dupioni Rosette Gown

Friday, September 25th, 2009

This absolutely stunning style is a beautiful fusion of the traditional and the modern. The clean silhouette and shimmering silk dupioni are nothing short of classic, but the appliquéd raw-edged rosettes have a cool, contemporary sensibility. Fitted bodice, A-line skirt with train. Interior corset for added support. Back zip. Fully lined with tulle petticoat. Falls to floor. Part of the J.Crew Collection. Import. Dry clean. Specially packaged in a custom-made box to ensure your gown is always as beautiful as the first day you wore it. $3,000.00.

Courtesy of J. Crew

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J. Crew Tiered Analisa Gown

Friday, September 25th, 2009

When nothing less than spectacular will do…This dreamy silk gown features reams of ruffled tiers in slub silk and chiffon, and is finished at the waist with a slub silk sash complete with attached fabric flowers. A truly memorable gown for your most memorable day. Sleeveless. Fitted bodice, A-line skirt. Straight neckline. Spaghetti straps. Side zip. Fully lined in silk, with a poly tulle underskirt. Falls to floor; 46 1/2″ from natural waist. Part of the J.Crew Collection. Import. Dry clean. Specially packaged in a custom-made box to ensure your gown is always as beautiful as the first day you wore it. $2,995.00.

Courtesy of J. Crew

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J. Crew Silk Tricotine Avery Dress

Friday, September 25th, 2009

A beautiful sight to see (and feel) in pure midweight silk tricotine with a refined drape and elegant cross-back straps. Full A-line skirt. Back zip. Fully lined. Falls to floor with a dramatic train. Import. Dry clean. Catalog/jcrew.com only. $425.00.

Next Dress

J. Crew Silk Tricotine Tatiana Gown

Friday, September 25th, 2009

This slim, sleek column gown is the epitome of understated elegance. Crafted from luxurious midweight silk tricotine, with a softly draped cowl at the neckline and back bodice. The extra-special touch? An inset of French lace (from a European lace house, considered to be the best in the world) peeking from the back cowl. Fitted bodice. Side zip with self-covered buttons. Bodice lined in self-fabric; skirt lined in silk charmeuse. Falls to floor with a slight train. Import. Dry clean. Specially packaged in a custom-made box to ensure your gown is always as beautiful as the first day you wore it. Catalog/jcrew.com only. $750.00.

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J. Crew Orion gown

Friday, September 25th, 2009

A very special gown, indeed. Inspired by vintage prints of old-Hollywood starlets, our designers painstakingly hand embellished this beautiful silk tulle mermaid gown with a smattering of iridescent sequins (we adore their antique shimmer). Godet pleating on the fishtail skirt makes it extra floaty and feminine. Sleeveless. Fitted cross-front bodice. Removable silk sash. Back zip. Fully lined in silk. Falls to floor. Part of the J.Crew Collection. Import. Dry clean. Catalog/jcrew.com only. $2800.00.

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J. Crew Silk-Cotton Ellie Dress

Friday, September 25th, 2009

What makes this dress so special? The unusual combination of silk and cotton, which gives the fabric a rich lustre and a substantial but silky handfeel (it also takes color beautifully). The fitted, cross-front bodice is trimmed with a knotted band. The A-line skirt features a flattering inverted pleat. Silk/cotton. Sleeveless. Side zip. Fully lined. Falls to knee. Import. Dry clean. Catalog/jcrew.com only. $245.00.

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J. Crew Cotton Cady Serena Dress

Friday, September 25th, 2009

We updated one of our favorite silhouettes by giving it a fitted cross-front bodice and a deep V-back, then accented it with a removable silk charmeuse sash. Timeless elegance in crisp cotton cady with a subtle sheen. Sleeveless. Tucks at seams on back of straps. A-line skirt. Back zip. Fully lined. Falls to knee. Import. Dry clean. Catalog/jcrew.com only.$225.00.

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J. Crew Silk Dupioni Rosette Dress

Friday, September 25th, 2009

An extraordinary fusion of classic and modern style in shimmering silk dupioni. The strapless silhouette has a fitted bodice and princess seams, but our favorite details by far are the meticulously crafted rosettes that cover this dress. Slight A-line skirt. Sweetheart neckline. Empire waist. Back zip. Interior corset for added support. Fully lined. Falls above knee; 21″ from natural waist. Part of the J.Crew Collection. Import. Dry clean. $495.00.

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J. Crew Slub Silk Daydream Floral Lorelei Dress

Friday, September 25th, 2009

A vintage swatch was the inspiration behind this pretty posy of a dress. Charming and feminine, but still soft and playful. Lustrous slub silk elegantly designed into a strapless silhouette. Fitted bodice with interior corset for added support. A-line skirt with box pleats. On-seam pockets. Back zip. Fully lined. Falls to knee. Import. Dry clean. Catalog/jcrew.com only. $250.00.

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J. Crew Strapless Silk-Cotton Jenny Dress

Friday, September 25th, 2009

What makes this dress so special? The unusual combination of silk and cotton, which gives the fabric a rich lustre and a substantial but silky handfeel (it also takes color beautifully). To give this strapless silhouette a twist, our designers gave its A-line skirt a peekaboo silk organza hem. The fitted bodice is trimmed with a silk band and features an interior corset for added support. Silk/cotton. Side-seam pockets. Back zip. Fully lined. Falls to knee. Import. Dry clean. Catalog/jcrew.com only. $265.00.

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J. Crew Silk Pleated Galette Dress

Friday, September 25th, 2009

We detailed this stunning silk organza dress with intricate, all over knife-pleats (it’s a time-consuming process, but we couldn’t resist), then placed horizontal pleats at the empire waist for a pretty contrast. The fitted bodice and slight A-line skirt feature pretty stand-up ruffle detail. Strapless. Interior corset for added support. Back zip. Fully lined in silk. Falls to knee. Part of the J.Crew Collection. Import. Dry clean. Available in select stores. $365.00.

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J.Crew Silk Chiffon Juliet Dress

Friday, September 25th, 2009

So feminine in a floaty, lightweight silk chiffon with a delicate crinkled texture. Strapless. Fitted bodice, full skirt with horizontal pleats. Back zip. Fully lined. Falls below knee. Import. Dry clean. Catalog/jcrew.com only. $180.00.

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DIY Bridal Shower Favor Idea: Candles and Flowers

Friday, September 25th, 2009

We always like to showcase new and unique bridal shower ideas.  Here is one of our favorites and easy to do yourself.

This particular bridal shower favor is an adorable cardboard box filled with a scented candle and tissue and topped with a flower.  How simple is that.

What you will need to complete this DIY bridal shower favor flower box:

1.  Cardboard box {pick whatever size you would like}

2.  Flower {these can be picked up at a Michael’s}

3.  Ribbon

4.  Glue Gun {we picked this up from a craft store for $5.99}

5.  Tissue paper for interior of box

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Honeymoon Planning Checklist: A Bride’s To Do List

Thursday, September 24th, 2009

Now that wedding planning is underway, have you thought about how to plan the Honeymoon?

8 months in advance

    Start saving whatever you can {whether your parents are paying or you are using registry money, it doesn’t mean you don’t want to spend some money during your honeymoon, remember you want to be comfortable on your vacation}
    Make a budget {Create a budget per person not for entire trip because that can be overwhelming}
    Decide whether to use a travel agent {Different travel agents specialize in different areas, and so travel agent should be familiar with area you want to go to, that is why it is important to choose a location before you choose a travel agent}
    Consider when you want to leave {some brides want to get away, but remember that your going to be exhausted and might want to sleep in the day after the wedding so consider going the next day in the afternoon}

6 months in advance

    Decide what kind of honeymoon would you like to have {relaxed or adventurous}. Think ahead so you can plan things out, be willing to compromise.
    Decide where you are going
    Start looking for Deals {go to some of these online travel sites and put yourself on their deal alert system so you can find deals to the area you are traveling to}
    Buy plane tickets
    Book your hotel
    Determine transportation to and from airport (rental car, euro rail, transportation services, family members)
    Visit the CDC travel website to see if any vaccinations are necessary for the area you have chosen (for example, if your destination is Africa you must go have several vaccinations)

4 months in advance

    Consider making dinner reservations
    Obtain a passport (make sure you know where your passport is and when it expires)
    Find out if you need a visa (some places require a vacation visa)
    Consider travel insurance (some people get sick or plan a trip and their final destination becomes devastated by a natural disaster or violence, so insurance is important)

2 months in advance

    Consider luggage (you can register for luggage and a camera)
    Research information for activities (reservations for dinner or theater tickets, especially during peak travel times, talk to hotel concierge in advance so you can get a better idea of the activities offered in the area)
    Talk to your doctor about your prescriptions/Fill prescriptions (including birth control, could talk to your doctor to see if you can skip your period because sometimes you cant plan your honeymoon and wedding day around your cycle)

1 month in advance

    Come up with a packing list
    Research your airline, make sure you know how many bags you can bring and the weight limit
    Reconfirm all travel reservations (hotel, restaurants, etc)
    Make any kennel reservations or sitters for babies or pets

2 weeks in advance

    Consider getting travelers checks and researching exchange rate behavior (might be better to exchange money now then later)
    Start packing (cant pack a week before wedding because a lot will be going on)
    Tell post office to hold mail (mail that doesn’t get collected is a sign for intruders that someone isn’t home)
    Make copies of your passport and visa’s and leave it with a friend or family member you trust
    Ask stores you have registered with to hold your gifts so they do not pile up on your front porch
    Make sure you have extra’s of what you will need (glasses, head ache medicine, ect)
    Compile important phone numbers (hotel, restaurants, travel agent)
    Shop – Travel books, swim suites, ect

1 week in advance

    Check the weather for your final destination
    Pack carry on for flight
    Choose wardrobe to wear on flight
    Finalize your luggage (that will be the last thing you are going to want to think about during your wedding)

It’s Easy Being Green: Socially Conscious Green Vendors

Sunday, September 20th, 2009

By: Nora Zelevansky

 

Mango, coral, canary, plum . . . 

No matter what the chosen color scheme for a bride’s big day, shades of green always seem to emerge. Well, maybe not literally, but green is for the envy in the eyes of enraptured guests; for the budding marriage and blossoming love; for the (sigh) never-ending cash flow.

And, now, socially sustainable green weddings are dominating the landscape, especially for brides with prefer to emphasize the unique.  You may be picturing ugly hemp potato sacks and raw vegan food (which is fine, if the bride and groom are raw food vegans). But, actually the socially conscious green movement has gone style conscious too.

Some of the chicest vendors offer green touches in spades. And, since many of these green companies are younger fledgling business you may be able to wheel and deal and wuite frankly save some of that green cash as well.  Here are a few of our favorite new green—reduce your carbon footprint— vendors below:

The Venue

Picture vertical succulent gardens and plant chandeliers against crisp white brick walls, mile-high ceilings, solar lighting schemes and, wait, a garage door?  LA’s most ecological-event space, Smog Shoppe, just opened in a converted, well, smog shop on La Cienega in Culver City, across from myriad of burgeoning hipster galleries and the Mandrake bar. 

The contemporary artist owners of this surprising new spot also own Marvimon (a slightly smaller space in a converted auto showroom in Chinatown) with a similar of-the-moment aesthetic: exposed brick, Provençal signage, antler fixtures and the same amazing retro lounge furniture. 

The Dress

Never in a million years would you guess that Adele Wechsler’s modern gowns (that bring a little something new to each classic silhouette) are crafted from eco-materials like hemp, vegetable dye, organic silk and recycled lace, not to mention fair trade workers.   The South African come Canook designs her Eco Couture collection not only with sustainable textiles, but also with surprising details like embroidered applications of orchids, pansies or lilies.  As this true pioneer of eco bridal couture can attest, green dresses need not be basic anymore.

The Caterer

While too many caterers still offer a choice between boring rubber chicken and equally dull fishy salmon, Tres LA prepares exciting, contemporary fare for carnivores, veggies, vegans, organics and even lactose-intolerant brides alike.  This energetic new company helps brides create menus based on elevated versions of the foods they love most (how novel!).  From clambakes to Italian feasts to bacon wrapped figs that positively melt in your mouth, Tres LA’s chow hovers steps above the usual wedding food (and miraculously doesn’t break the bank in the process).

The Florist

Stodgy old roses alone don’t fly with Dandelion Ranch, owned and run by delightful ladies, Clover Chadwick and Fawn Fletcher (who also happen to have the cutest names in the world).  These adorable, gifted women, who even created their own non-toxic floral foam, are based out of a Culver City barn.  There, they create mind-blowingly beautiful arrangements with flower market fresh pods and blooms to suit any season and color scheme.  Chadwick was once maitr d’ at one of the world’s most upscale restaurants, Napa’s French Laundry, so she knows a thing or two about meticulous service, as well, and currently does flowers for all the chicest restaurants in LA from Grace to Mozza.

And that makes for an event of a different color.

 

 

Bridesmaid Dress Finds: Max Azria

Friday, September 18th, 2009

We are always on the hunt for cute bridesmaids dresses that look just a little bit different. We love this BCBG Max Azria Lavender dress for a fall wedding. The ruffles and soft blush lavender color will really make you stand out from the crowd.  Plus, the best part is, it is under $300.00.  Click here to buy.

J Crew

Friday, September 18th, 2009

¡Bailamos! Ritmos Latinos Para una Boda Única

Saturday, September 12th, 2009

Por: Veronika Lazabal

No hay nada de malo con las canciones de Celine Dion… sinceramente.

¿Pero que tal si buscas algo un poco diferente en una canción para tu boda? Quizás algo que mejor refleje tu personalidad como una latina sexy, provocativa e interesante… Estas en suerte, porque hoy en día hay mas que suficiente opciones en música alternativa para la novia moderna.

Todas queremos que el primer baile sea indicativo del amor eterno que hemos encontrado, pero romántico no tiene por que significar empalagoso. Por cada mujer que prefiere una canción de boda tradicional, hay otra quien busca música que puede representar quien es ella de una manera mejor.

Por ejemplo, el grupo de bachata Aventura es más bien conocido por sus canciones sensuales y letras picosas, pero tal vez estarás sorprendida cuando oyes algunos de sus ofertas más tiernas. Princesita es una de estas…

Piensa, princesita, solo piensa, que solo es que a tu lado soy…un hombre capaz de pensar en el matrimonio

Otra idea para el primer baile viene de cantante Cubana Gloria Estefan. La canción Con Los Años Que me Quedan, del álbum Mi Tierra es un homenaje amorosa con letras súper románticas…

Con los anos que me quedan, yo viviré por darte amor… borrando cada dolor con besos llenos de pasión como te ame por vez primera.

Shakira es otra latina picosa quien extiende una canción sentimental y distintivo. Tal vez Que Me Quedes Tu será la selección ideal para tu boda…

Que se escriba hoy la última canción, pero que me quedes tú, que me quede tu abrazo

Algunas otras para mantener en mente en lo que escojas tu música de boda:
• Bella Maria De Mi Alma (Los Lobos)
• Te Busque (Juanes y Nelly Furtado)
• I Melt (Rascal Flatts)
• I Knew I Loved You (Savage Garden)
• Eres (Café Tacuba)

Silk Rose Necklace | Bridesmaids Gift Idea # 1

Friday, September 4th, 2009

Ok. Hold the phone. When we spied this amazing silk fabric necklace on etsy, we were more than inspired. We had to share the perfect gift for your bridesmaids. 

This necklace is perfect for an autumn wedding, particularly because the color blends so well with any kind of purple, biege or green dress.  

It also makes for the perfect gift for your maid of honor to sport down the aisle. For more ideas on favors and gift ideas, click here.

Not your Mother’s Corsage: Top Corsage Ideas

Thursday, September 3rd, 2009

By: Jennifer Juhos, Floral Expert, Fiore Designs

Somewhere between the dreaded prom corsage (lets face it, the flowers may not have actually been as bad as your date!), and many mothers recently opting NOT to wear one, the corsage’s image has been tainted and suffered dearly.

Here are some easy and chic ways to avoid the common traps in the eclectic world of the corsage.

1.  Be creative and stop thinking that a rose is your only option.

Many florists are now using more textured fresh elements, and depending on your theme, the selections can be quite varied! For instance, use succulents for desert chic, seashells, or grass for a beach theme. To suit a fall wedding, incorporate small fresh fruits and/or berries.

2. Experiment with alternatives to fresh elements

Consider experimenting with alternatives to fresh flowers.  Many artists are using such elements as paper flowers, feathers, jewels and beads, or even ribbon! You can create these weeks before the wedding, and still have plenty of time to perfect the look in case you make a mistake.

PS… the same argument can be used while referring to boutonnieres. Make sure to involve your groom… after all, he is going to be wearing it all day, not you!

Using Carnations for Your Wedding Flowers

Thursday, September 3rd, 2009

 

Ok, so before you start imagining obnoxious dyed green carnations for St. Patricks Day, think about these great tips and ways to incorporate carnations into your floral designs! Despite the reputation of being “cheap”, carnations have not only made a comeback, but are in popular demand. Their popularity is attributed to their rich variety of hues and availability, fluffy textures, and of course, they are well priced!

Consider choosing one to two colors within the same family and bunch them all tightly together, creating a “paveed” design. This creates an elegant display and transforms the typical look of the flower.

Another way to incorporate carnations is by clustering a group of these blooms next to a completely different textured bloom or color within the same arrangement. By placing two very different textures side by side, each flower will be showcased and individually stand out… as they should!

Choosing the Right Traditions for Your Ceremony

Tuesday, September 1st, 2009

Your Cuban, he’s Puerto Rican.  How do you choose?  It is hard to figure out just want to integrate for the perfect blend of his and hers.  We suggest talking about what is significant to both of you. 

 Complete Neutral Ceremony

You don’t always have to go for broke on creating the perfect blend.  Why not consider having a neutral ceremony.  In some countries like Mexico, it is very typical to have a civil ceremony and a church ceremony. But, if you are looking for a non-traditional beach ceremony you can always opt for a civil ceremony and then a beautiful neutral ceremony on the beach.  Many priests are not willing to hold a ceremony outside of the church.  But, if you are not Catholic, speak to your pastor, priest or judge about a ceremony out of a temple or church.

Integrate from Both His and Hers

What about having a ceremony where you bring in a bit of your family tradition and so does he?  You can bring the Lazo, he can bring the 13 Coins!

Have two Separate Events

One bride we spoke to had her Catholic ceremony on Saturday night and a separate evening Sunday ceremony for her Jewish husband!  Talk about having it all!  Two full celebrations!! How fun.  Remember, you can also mix this up to fit whatever blending of traditions fits your particular situation.  

Shawna Herring Photography

Tuesday, September 1st, 2009

Description:

I’m the luckiest girl in the world. My father always told me, “Choose a job that you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.”  This is exactly what I did and for the past 12 years I have essentially been out of work. I find the most joy in building relationships with people and it is out of those relationships that great images are produced.  I actually hear quite often, when I first meet someone, that they hate having their picture taken, or they don’t look in photographs and I love proving them wrong.  There is a rock star in everyone and I love to bring it out.  Whenever I photograph couples, whether it is an engagement session or a wedding, my goal is to document the unique relationship between two people, to freeze a feeling that they share so that when they look at it in the future, it is recalled from the heart.  I find that if I use my intuition and am sensitive to the personalities of individuals, we can create great images every time.

Thank you for your interest in my photography, and remember to have fun in your planning.

Promotion:

Mention that you found me on Para ti Nova and receive 10% off any wedding package.

Lisa Rodriguez | Wedding Planner

Tuesday, September 1st, 2009

Description:

My name is Lisa Rodriguez and I am a professional wedding planner living on the enchanted island known as Puerto Rico. I love all things wedding and all things tropical. Puerto Rico is truly magical and living in here really let me discover the secrets of the island vacationing never before revealed. It was these precious discoveries that motivated me to pass it along to others.

These passions along with my professional experience in the party planning business for over 20 years allows me to offer my clients the best of the best in the most timely & professional manner.

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It would be my pleasure to arrange your special occasion no matter what budget you may have. Feel free to contact me, even if you’re just a little curious. I look forward to hearing from you.

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For further information call or email me. ¡Gracias y felicidades!

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Dreaming of exchanging vows by the sea somewhere in the Caribbean? Your dream is closer to you than you think – Get married in Puerto Rico! Recently named one of “The World’s Happiest Countries”, Puerto Rico is a modern, vibrant and bilingual society with Old World Charm, hospitality and an “European flair”. It’s the ideal location for a romantic tropical ceremony close to the mainland (USA) and no passport required. I make it easy for you to plan the wedding of your dreams!

One Happenings | Wedding Coordinator

Tuesday, September 1st, 2009

ONE Weddings & Events is an event coordination company formed through the love of event planning that Leslie Bost and Adriana Dupinet have shared since they first met. Together, they bring every Bride, Groom or business owner, events worth a lifetime of memories.

Based in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, ONE is a wedding planning company that makes sure every wedding is customized to your needs, whether you wish to get married at a Villa, Hotel, on the Beach or on a Boat!

ONE places you first, to celebrate the moment as though it were the only one in the world, in existence, in time…simply the one.

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