Pretty as Princess in a Tiara for your Wedding

Tiaras have always fascinated me probably because I'm such a hopeless romantic. The idea of a fairy tale wedding could not be further from my mind. While not everyone can get married in the fashion of Princess Di, we can certainly imagine a wedding inspired by her beauty and grace. Hence, during my search for tiaras, I had the most trouble finding designs that really stood out, but once I stumbled upon the handmade tiaras of Susan York, I immediately fell in love with their vintage yet modern-like appeal. Her creations mainly use Swarovski crystals and freshwater pearls, and several are available in gold or silver. Note that even though it's a UK company, you can always make an inquiry as to whether they can ship abroad.

Check out some of my favorite finds and be sure to visit her site for even more exquisite pieces:

Horae tiara


Brimo tiara


Naiad tiara

Have a Themed Bridal Shower Cake!

Let's talk cake! While we almost always see the ever-popular three-tiered cake, I wanted to turn my attention to other cakes. Specifically, the bridal shower cake. It's a real chance to showcase the personality and style of the bride. You can make it as whacky as a bustier (yes, I've seen this) or as elegant as a white lace butttercream one finished with peonies. Be creative when crafting the theme and color of the cake, and whoever is in charge of ordering the cake, you can also match the cake with the invitations of the event, so that it's a good way of creating consistency! Plus, the guests can anticipate what's ahead. Look below and you will see an example of a bridal shower cake at a Caribbean themed bridal shower!
Ain't it cute?

via the Post Gazette

Wedding Beauty Update for Your Eyes

Since I'm not exactly feeling pretty, I thought that the best thing to talk about is how to get pretty especially on your wedding. One of the things that really stands out nowadays as you will probably notice are deep, heavy mascara-laden eyes. But honestly, I don't like it at all. So, when I saw the model on the homepage of shu uemura's website, I was ecstatic. The eyeshadow is light yet so flattering with its sea green palette and is part of their "gem glam" collection. And of course, if you are going to have such a look, you have got to check out their eyelash curler, which is a beauty must-have!

Check out the collection here:

Weddings at The Parker in Palm Springs

Ever consider getting married in the desert? Why not! Let's picture Palm Springs for a classy spin! There are several great venues, but my all-time favorite has always been The Parker in Palm Springs. The decor has that classic feel of old Hollywood ala Cary Grant or Audrey Hepburn. The hotel accommodations are gorgeous in every room, while the garden area is exquisite. Let your guests soak up the sun in a beautiful garden wedding! And if you're making it a wedding weekend, guests can enjoy some shopping because not so far away is the Cabazon Outlet Mall.

For a preview of all these photos, check out parkerweddings.com:



Enjoy!

Cinco de Mayo Bridal Shower Ideas - OLE!

So, tax day finally came and went! And now it's time to gear up for something more festive and exciting. Care to guess? Of course, it's Cinco de Mayo. Make it a bridal shower-a coed shower. A fun theme that's sure to be memorable. Think of a colorful table setting with artful ceramic serving platters, shapely margarita glasses, and a bountiful serving of food. Having kids over? Then consider a pinata. You may even find yourself wanting to hit that thing. Or have one for adults! Why not! The goal is to have fun. A chance to be a kid all over again, but in a grown up way.

I've found some cool stuff to help you get your party planning started.

Party Invites via Myexpression.com - Luv the pretty borders of this invitation. Perfect for a casual celebration!


Celebration Cake via CHARM & MAVE'S CAKES - This whimsical sombrero will also make a great groom's cake for a Cinco de Mayo wedding.


Drinks - Great for Teetotalers and kids! Mexican Jarritoas Sodas available in various flavors. My neighbor says that you can find them at any Mexican grocery. They're very popular. You can even have your own drinks bar with tequilas, mojitos, Coronas, and a whole array of refreshing drinks. Remember to have ice. Lots of ice.


Taco Bar DIY - this is a place wherein you can save a lot of money with your food budget. Rachel Ray has this idea for a taco bar. You can also incorporate burritos and tortillas. Include items such as beef asada, shrimp, and carnitas. And don't forget the sides such as sour cream, salsa, limes, cilantro, cut onions, and lettuce! Hot sauce, anyone?

More on the web, too. I've gathered some more ideas for you to use:

http://www.amny.com/urbanite-1.812039/cinco-de-mayo-mania-1.1290558
http://entertainexchange.blogspot.com/2009/04/diy-mexican-or-cinco-de-mayo.html
http://www.bellenza.com/wedding-ideas/photo-gallery/cinco-de-mayo-party-ideas-for-a-fiesta-style-engagement-party.html

The Wedding Mantilla

The mantilla is one of those things that you are love or hate. It gives a bride a romantic look, one that is reminiscent of old Spain. If you are looking for something different besides an ordinary veil or headpiece, you may want to consider a mantilla. Most often, they are made of tulle or chiffon, and can also be made of lace. Available as a long or short one. You can also find custom-made ones that can be tailored to the design of your wedding gown. You may want to check out the designs from Orange Blossom Tiaras, here is a preview of one:

A long, oval mantilla veil made of white lace

A Wedding at the Oklahoma Aquarium!

Under the sea, but not in the water? Yeah, I'm talking about wedding venues specifically, aquariums! The Oklahoma Aquarium is a wonderfully romantic place to have your wedding reception. Imagine how cool this would be!



Here, you can choose from either the Coral Reef or Siegfried Shark Adventure. The place also takes care of coordinating the catering. This venue would be great for a couple who has a real affinity for the sea!

Wedding cake alternatives that you can try yourself

I'm really excited to talk about cookies! Specifically, wedding cookies because they are a great option for a couple that doesn't want to spend a lot on their wedding cake, but want to give something special for guests to enjoy at the wedding. So, I'll be sharing some fun wedding cake alternatives, which you may actually do yourself!

Stacks of cookies via Just Cupcakes from Australia


as you can see here, when you have little cookies each separated by icing. You can instantly have something sweet and attractive for guests. If you can find a delicious recipe for butter cookies and learn how to apply the icing, then you can actually save your budget. This idea would also be great as dessert at a bridal shower party. Oh yummy!

Cupcakes via Flickr user kylie lambert


yes, these are some of the easiest treats that you can create. All you need is ample time and planning to make a batch for your guests. Now, if you plan to make 50 or more of these puppies, I suggest you plan way way ahead to retain your sanity and to assure that your cupcakes look cute as a button. Personalize them by adding a sugar accent that follows your theme or add some colorful sugar sprinkles. When using white icing, a little red sugar crystals, adds a beautiful and chic accent!

Individual cakes via Patisserie Viennoise in the UK


I think it's best to say that when thinking of individualized cakes for your guests, that a small guest list is in your horizon. When opting for this cool creations, try serving up 2-3 different flavors so that guests can be in for a big surprise. I suggest strawberries and cream, carrot cake, and of course, chocolate!

Orange bridesmaid dress match up!

I see orange! Couldn't resist this pretty bridesmaid dress from Jim Hjelm. The fabric is silk shantung -- so lovely! via Brides.com


And just what do you wear to match to match this pretty dress? These gorgeous beige high heels from Stuart Weitzman via Zappos:


Finally, wear a pretty turquoise necklace from Kohls, and your ensemble is done! If you prefer a more muted color, try coral or white, too!

Wedding dresses for the plus-size bride

Let's face it! Not everyone is a teeny size 2. So when it comes to finding wedding gowns for the plus-size bride, I tried to find the most flattering styles out there. Remember that when shopping around for any kind of dress especially if you are a voluptous and curvy gal, that it's best to search for styles that will match your body type. Even petite brides have this challenge because most gowns out there are made for the 5'4 and up crowd.

Stay away also from the ball gown, sheath, and mermaid style dresses because these aren't for most people unless you have the body of Nicole Kidman. I even think that if you are going to look at dresses, looking at non-bridal styles in white might also be another option. You can even opt for an ecru or champagne gown. You may be surprised to find that the perfect gown isn't a wedding gown per se! Nevertheless, here are some of my favorite finds from Alfred Angelo that I hope will help you find your dream dress:

Taffeta Hug the Shoulder neckline with a Chapel Train


Satin, Crystal Beading & Sequins with Semi-Cathedral Train


Net over Satin, Embroidered Lace with Hi -Low Hemline - I love this one because it looks sexy enough but you don't feel like a balloon.

So Pretty and So Yummy Wedding Cakes

I'm thinking of pretty wedding cakes right now in flavors like tiramisu, carrot cake, or chocolate cherry! No matter what flavor you choose, make it creative and one that reflects your personality. My personal favorite cake would be one with three tiers having three distinct flavors in white chocolate, lemon, and raspberry. I would opt for a buttercream rather than fondant. The color would be a pretty pink cake with white sugar icing. See the cakes below and notice the first one:

Three-tier cake with cascading iced blossom petals - my personal favorite for a summer wedding via Maisie Fantaisie


White icing and finished with hand crafted pearls and faux lilies - so unique and unusual via Planet Cake


A craft-themed cake in summers hottest hues via Peggy Porschen


When choosing your cake, what do you look for? Don't forget that you can always match the cake with your theme and colors. Choose a flavor that you and your fiance will enjoy. There's nothing worse than ending up with a cake flavor that neither of you like, so take the time to sample as many cakes. To view more examples of cakes, please see Wedding Magazine UK.

Invitations for a Valentine's Day Wedding

Valentine's Day is coming up as we all know. My favorite time of the day because it reminds of those days when kids used to have Valentine's parties at school and we'd all exchange cards. It was so much fun. Now that we are all grown up, who is to say that you can't have your wedding on Valentine's? After all, it is the most romantic time of the year. And this year, it falls on a Sunday! Start your event right with these lovely invitations I found:

From artfire.com - so cute.




From creationsbyleslie.com - where the card has a whimsical touch to it.




From moderngirlinvitations.com - this one is just pure chic and modern with a simple heart design.

Color everywhere for your wedding in 2010

Bring color out! It's about time. When I read the Pantone 2010 spring/summer report'which said that Turquoise was the color of the year, I was also so thrilled to see colors such as lilac, yellow, and amparo blue being featured. Yellow really struck me because it isn't as popular, but should get much attention this season as the focus is on adding sunshine.



So, to showcase the colors, I've collected some faves through polyvore.com!

Lilac

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR FITRIA!!!!! by **G A B Y** (BDay 4thJAN) featuring Yves Saint Laurent

Amparo blue

:) by alisa&marti featuring Chanel jewelry

Yellow

Cinderella Dressed In Yella by zebragirl2013♥ featuring Cargo

Turquoise bridesmaid dresses I'd wear to a wedding

Since finding out that turquoise is going to be a popular color for weddings in 2010, I took the liberty of searching for the cutest bridesmaid dresses. Imagine your wedding overlooking a beach or a lake as your colors resonate in calming hues of blue! What I like about aqua is that it is also such a versatile color. You can match it with red, brown, or even pink! Check out these lovely finds:

from Jim Hjelm Occasions - luv this gorgeous taffeta tea-length bridesmaid dress with a sexy halter neckline. Match it with a pretty topaz drop earrings, a sleek moire fabric purse, and espadrilles.



from Debenhams - this aqua taffeta dress says young and blissful. It's cute! Almost like going to prom all over again, but with more style. Pair it with pretty white flats or ballerina shoes and a leather wristlet.



from Peacocks Boutique - a two-piece satin strapless top with a simple A-line skirt. I think this is great for people with height!

Plaid Weddings Are Here to Stay

I could not be more in love with plaid or more popularly known by Scots as tartan. Back in school, I actually had a plaid skirt as my uniform! Perhaps I should have kept the skirt now that it seems to be back in fashion. And for a wedding in tartan, this could be a very colorful and texturally interesting display. Consider a dress trimmed in red plaid all the way to a matching invitation that carries on the theme beautifully! A palette to accompany this is needed:

Pretty Wedding Dress from TartanSpirit.com - This is my favorite so far!


Wedding Invitations from Myexpression.com - Luv it, gorgeous baby!


Flower Girl Dress from Macy's - So cute - it could steal the show. Perfect!


Chocolate Cup Wedding Cake from Sweetart in the UK - This is a cool alternative to a traditional cake! Inspirational!


And let's not forget the Kilt from IrishImports.com


Be pretty in plaid!

Let's go to the Wedding Movies!

It feels like the holidays already! And so is the time to gather together and watch wedding movies. If you are planning such as theme for a bridal shower, here are some of Dahlia's all-time favorite movies--many of which are now on DVD. The list:

Made of Honor


27 Dresses


Bride Wars


Wedding Crashers - some may not like it, but overall, it's a good laugh!


The Wedding Planner


Others you may also like:

The Wedding Date, Sweet, Home Alabama, Maid in Manhattan, My Best Friend's Wedding, Runaway Bride, and My Big Fat, Greek Wedding.

I love ALL of these movies, but my favorite has to be "My Best Friend's Wedding!" It is so romantic and love the wedding setting. So, bring out the popcorn! Or make it a hibachi party with your own mini grill. Whatever you plan to do, make the event fun. My personal favorite is to bring in good old-fashioned comfort food like fried chicken, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, clam chowder, and lasagna.

Luv These Gorgeous Southern Cal Wedding Venues

Some gorgeous wedding locations await you in California where the weather is mild and generally sunny. I love this locations for their wonderful views, romantic scenery, and elegant landscaping. Once you have visited these venues, it may be the hardest part deciding where to get married. They're all so beautiful, but remember once you decide, book EARLY! Many places can fill up fast early in the year, so be sure to plan way ahead.

Check them out:

Pelican Hill in Newport Beach - this place packs in a grand view of the ocean with its lovely ceremony area and classic decor coupled with romantic Romanesque architecture. It's a high price to pay but the villas in the resort are superb. The drive down to Newport Beach is worth every mile! Did I mention the complimentary bridal suite villa for the married couple!? And a butler and a concierge on the day of the wedding! Just love the pool area, too.



Terranea - located in lush Palos Verdes, this resort has all the amenities of a 5-star resort. There are villas with grand views of the Pacific Ocean and you can even have a girl's spa night right at the resort. Golf, anyone? You also a choice of three different venues within the area. How cool is that?



Mt. Woodson - situated in the hills of San Diego, this golf club touts a magnificent castle that has been around since 1921. It feels like an enchanting place even though it is just 30 minutes away from downtown San Diego. It is perfect a romantic castle-inspired wedding under the summer stars!

Black Wedding Cakes - So Cool

I love these black and white wedding cakes. They say something a little bit more sophisticated than other cakes simply because of their unique color contrast. I simply think that it brings out a certain romantic touch to a wedding. While you see many cakes in various colors, a black and white has a different personality all together! These lovely finds on the Web are sure to grab your fancy:


Sweet Memories Canada



Cakeella - these black lace ones are so pretty


Crumbs Cakes UK - you gotta see this unique one!

A Gothic Halloween Wedding

When I think of gothic, I'm thinking of such things as the Cure and high school classmates that looked half-dead at school. But that was then! Enter elegant gothic as a theme for a Halloween wedding! It's not for everyone, but if you are daring enough to be different, this is the best thing for you. The following are some fun ideas you can check out:

A real Gothic wedding featured on weddingskulls.com - check out this unique site!



Black damask wedding invitations from modpapers.com



Gorgeous damask wedding cake via Flickr user Crazy Cake Lady



For more fun ideas to plan a Halloween bridal party, you may also want to check out the following sites:

Tricks and Treats for a Hip Halloween-themed Bridal Shower

Halloween themed wedding on Youtube

Eerie Halloween Wedding Party Invitation

Happy Halloween to ya' all!