A Reception Dress to Shock the Guests!

I have watched many wedding shows, had many discussions with friends and have read many blogs where this question pops up: Should a bride change out of her wedding dress for the reception? I have finally, after a lot of thinking, come up with an answer; It depends on the bride. It is a pretty simple answer. As the most important person that day, the bride has to do what makes her happy. Dream ceremony dresses can be heavy, form-fitting, or just not what the bride feels is right for dancing the night away at her reception. I will agree that more than one wardrobe change is extensive because the bride begins to miss events during her own special night, but I support the reception dress. Every star has a wardrobe change!

 So take a look at these fun, flirty, short dresses that still have that unique bridal feel that every bride wants, for all of her dresses:

None of these pictures belong to me.

Creative Decor Tip - Use Succulents!

I was very shocked as I was writing a proposal at one of my past internships, that my supervisor's notes stated 'succulents'. Thinking that this was an odd description for a flower arrangement, I quickly questioned what she meant. After I learned more about this unique and understated plant, I instantly thought it was very ingenious to use this plant that could easily be overlooked and make something beautiful for someone's special day.

Succulents are a type of plant, commonly with a thick out layer that are beneficial for storing water for a long period of time. Cacti and Aloe are two types of succulent plants. Succulents Sempervivums are the common choice for decorators. They are available in different colors, including pink, purple, red and green, and the formation of the cushions are unique and attractive. Succulents add a unique beauty to any wedding decor. They can be left in their natural state or spray painted gold. They can be incorporated into the ceremony, the reception or given as favors for guests. The uses of these plants are endless! Here are some ideas that I thought were really creative and only enhanced the natural beauty of these plants:

The succulents almost look like they are naturally gold. The work perfectly in this bouquet.

Individual potted succulents are easy to maintain and a nice change from candles.

Also a great Holiday Party idea!

Tasty Trend: Brunch Weddings

When most people hear the word brunch wedding, they do not think of 'elegant' as an associating word. A brunch wedding allows for creative freedom for an intimate setting that all guests will enjoy. A Saturday or Sunday wedding ceremony and brunch reception allows guests who have work early Monday, the opportunity to have a free evening. A brunch wedding also cuts cost for the bride and groom. Vendors will typically provide discounts because they have two events that day. An afternoon reception provides less competition for venues with other brides, and less expensive drink charges. Here are some creative options for a Wedding Brunch:

Appetizer bites like french toast or miniature cinnamon rolls are a sweet treat to provide guests for the pre-brunch "cocktail hour".

A buffet bar may not sound upscale, but with creativity, and a wide arrange of brunch options, your guests won't miss the sit-down dinner. Options can include an omelette bar, a pancake bar, a biscuit bar, parfaits, quiche, pastries and skewered bacon. A grits bar is a perfect choice for the Southern bride who wants a taste of home. A nice linen and gorgeous arrangements complete the look.

Drink options can include a champagne bar, orange juice bar and mimosa stations. A Bellini station is a unique option, that allows more choices and is also an inexpensive choice. Large glass jugs with lemonade or a punch is a perfect option for the bride and groom who want to refrain from alcohol.

"I Do" Spotlight Elie Saab

I love Elie Saab's bridal collections. She epitomizes the sweet, romantic bride that is very fashion forward. Below is her 2013-2014 Couture collection, not her bridal collection, but some of her pieces are perfect for the winter bride. I love the winter fantasy looks that have the right bit of sparkle for the holiday season and is still appropriate for any engagement afterwards. I can picture a brave bride wearing these looks, who wants something unique for her winter wonderland.

My favorite!

These are just my other favorite long pieces from the collection:

I love the illusion neckline on this look

The neckline is a perfect amount of sexy for this look

Emerald was the color of 2013