Five Fashion No-No’s for Bridesmaids

Alright, so you’ve got the dress, you’ve got the date, the only thing left is showing up. As a bridesmaid, your job is to help out your blushing bride, but you should also remember this event will be photographed. Heavily. Here’s a few tips on what to avoid on the big day.

The Accent Nail

Yes, accent nails can be cute, but not on someone else’s big day. This trend took off a little over a year ago and is still popping up, but is not appropriate for a wedding. Unless the bride specifies that she wants accent nails, I would avoid this entirely. Just because it can be fun at bachelorette parties does not mean it will be fun at a formal gathering. It’s best to stick to a classic french tip or a demure shade that compliments the wedding theme.

Pouting

As a bridesmaid, you will be visible at all times and be close to the forefront of the wedding ceremony. To show your support, you should not be moping or pouting. Even if your jaw hurts, you want to convey a sense of happiness and pride for the bride. You are a reflection of her friendships and who she is outside of her relationship. Plus it’s a wedding! Leave your stress at the door and enjoy yourself.

Don’t Go Gaudy

It’s good to stick to simple and smaller for your stint as a bridesmaid. Again, unless your bride specifies against it, lean towards conservative. As far as jewelry and accessories go, definitely aim for pretty and classic. This doesn’t mean basic or boring, just nothing to distract from anything else. Pearls or small topaz stones are appropriate for most outfits and color schemes. Also, try to avoid drop earrings or anything that hangs too long. You want to look as polished as you can to compliment the bride.

Leave the Blushing to the Bride

A wedding is typically an all day affair, and you will be expected to participate all day. Between the dancing, the wine, the sun, and your overall running around, it’s perfectly fine to skip the blush for the day. Your body’s natural blush will be enough to keep you rosy all day long. I would suggest picking up a powder highlighter instead. Cream or liquids may run, but a powder will absorb any extra oils or sweat that may occur over the course of the day. A highlighter on your cheeks is pretty and can offer you a glow in pictures.

Glitter

You’re at a wedding, not a disco. Yes, some shimmer in eyeshadow may make your eyes pop but leave it at that. Ditch the glitter eyeliner until your next girl’s night, over-doing glitter is inappropriate for weddings. It may be fun to wear but this day is about the bride, you should not outshine her. Glitter in your lip gloss doesn’t always photograph well, and you should always stay away from body glitter. There’s no reason to wear body glitter to a formal event ever. Putting a little bit of gold eyeliner in your inner corners can make your eyes look bright and fun without being overpowering or obnoxious.

 

Three Ways to Ask For Forever

When it comes time to propose ladies rest assured that your man is feeling the pressure.  You are the love of his life and he wants to do something special to show you just how much he cares about you.  Whether you are the quiet and intimate or over-the-top type couple , your boyfriend will plan and plot to make it a moment you will remember for the rest of your lives together.  But just in case he needs a little inspiration, here are a few proposal stories that are unique, well thought out and personalized to please the bride-to-be.

A Family Affair

I know for me, there is nothing I love more than to share those special moments in life with the ones I love.  That is why when I heard of this family style proposal it jumped to the top of my favorite list.

The unsuspecting bride-to-be joins her boyfriend for a day at the Huntington Library Botanical Gardens is Pasadena.  Upon entering the grounds, her boyfriend leaves her to “use the restroom.”  Here the plan is set into motion.  Soon after his departure the bride is joined by a friend who gives her a piece of paper.  This is her first clue in a series of clues that lead her around the grounds of the Huntington Library.  The best part… at the end of each clue is a family member to give her the next slip of paper.  By the end of the scavenger hunt she has gathered about 25 of her closest family and friends.  The very last clue leads them to her boyfriend who drops to his knee and asks her to be his wife.

The Scenic Route

We all know (and secretly wish we could be) that couple who is always active.  They love to be outside playing sports, exercising, hiking, you name it.  This next proposal is perfect if you happen to be the “out-doorsy” type.

A boyfriend decides to take his girlfriend on a hike to their favorite spot, just the two of them.  This spot happens to be on a mountain over looking the beautiful Washington landscape.  After an intermediate hike they finally reach the top and the view is absolutely gorgeous.  The girlfriend is stunned when her boyfriend kneels to ask if she will become his wife.  Luckily, a couple hiking near by sees the proposal and snaps some awesome photos.  As a result this couple now has one of the coolest proposal photos I have ever seen.  If this type of proposal suits you, make sure you enlist some help to capture that perfect moment.

A Public Display of Affection

When we find the one we love,  we are so happy that we want to shout it from the rooftops just to make sure everyone knows we have found the one.   Let’s be honest now, some of us secretly want that proposal in front of a crowd or in a public place where hundreds of random people can be witness to your partner’s declaration of love.  Here is a unique take on making a public proposal intimate and romantic.

The bride-to-be meets a colleague in a crowded restaurant for a “business” meeting.  Unbeknownst to her,  the meeting was actually set up by her boyfriend to ensure she was at this specific restaurant.  A little while into the meeting she spots her boyfriend walking up to her table.  “What are you doing here” she asks him.  He looks at her and there (in the middle of the restaurant) he lifts his hand and snaps his fingers.  Immediately the entire restaurant freezes mid meal, laugh and conversation.  It is now just the two of them, alone in a crowded restaurant.  He is able to tell her exactly what she means to him, kneel and propose.  She accepts and with another snap of his fingers the restaurant explodes in applause.

No matter the type of proposal your fiance has in store for you, it is ultimately about celebrating and cementing the fact that you have found in each other the piece you did not know was missing.  On top of a mountain, in a crowd or amongst family and friends, the proposal marks the beginning of the new life you will share together.

July 4th Wedding Weekend Must Do’s

With the Fourth of July  here, and all the barbecues  beach days, and relaxing activities, weddings are also here. Yep, many couples will choose a long weekend to celebrate their love with close friends and family. Why not? I am a total fan of long weekends and weddings. It is the perfect way to spend time with the ones you love for more than just one day. When the wedding day comes, it is hard to spend that quality time with each and every guest. So why not extend the celebrations into a few more days? I think that the fourth of July weekend is one of those weekends where you can totally do this! Here are some ideas of how you can celebrate with your guests at two of my favorite Southern Orange County spots!

  • Dana Point Harbor: A quaint beach town in the lovely city of Dana Point, California. Besides its gorgeous views and beach-side living, this town offers so many fun filled activities for you and your guests. You can go  kayaking,  stand up paddle boarding,  and jet skiing. Want to go Whale-watching? Sure, you can do this too!  What is great is that if any of your guests have children, this is a perfect location for them. There is a small beach called “baby beach” which has shallow water, no waves,  soft sands, and plenty of room to make sand castles! So, your guests who are parents can really enjoy a day at the beach without the worry about waves and a huge crowd. Kids love this place! You can also enjoy seafood at many of the restaurants on the harbor, or if you are feeling like a treat, then there is a famous ice cream place too. Kids will love this as well.  If you are not feeling like going to a restaurant  then you can have a barbecue with your guests. The harbor has some great spots with a grill, and covered picnic tables. The parking is free and the view? Well, the view is amazing. Imagine barbecuing, playing ball, games, or just relaxing…all on the gorgeous waters. It is incredible. So, if you are having a wedding on a long weekend like the 4th of July, then consider Dana Point Harbor. You and your guests will have a great time!

IMG_4750

IMG_6773

IMG_6755

 

  • Laguna Beach: Ah, Laguna Beach, California. I may have mentioned this spot a few times before, but I really love this town. Not only does it offer spectacular ocean views from about anywhere you are, it has some of the finest eateries. Whatever your palate desires, there is a restaurant for you and your guests. Want an ocean-view seat? No problem, there are several fantastic places with perfect views of the ocean. Enjoy sunset views with dinner with your guests. Laguna Beach of course has a main beach area where you can play basketball, walk the boardwalk, get some rays, swim, or just relax in the sun. I can go on and on about this amazing spot, but I want to bring your attention to a exclusive and private spot. If you are having your wedding celebrations on a long weekend and want to avoid the large crowds, then I have the perfect place for you. Hotel Laguna is located right in the heart of Laguna Beach. If you stay at this hotel, you have access to the a private beach which comes fully equipped with chairs, lounge chairs, towels, and a server. You do not have to worry about getting to the beach early to hold your spot. It is a fabulous hotel and great service.  Treat yourself and your guests to an amazing weekend in Laguna Beach, California. If you are looking for fine foods, gorgeous ocean views, beach side fun, or a relaxing time, then this is the place for you.

IMG_4292

222716_10150222701213210_5527152_n

262628_10150298505328210_6988369_n

270584_10150299050443210_5063248_n

The private beach area of Hotel Laguna

 

Happy 4th of July!!

All photos are property of Bridal Hot List.

An Independence Day Food Extravaganza: Fourth of July Recipes

The 4th of July is one of my favorite holidays in the United States. Growing up in Italy, I would only see it on TV. It was when I moved to the United States that I discovered the fun, energetic and patriotic spirit of the people celebrating Independence Day. What intrigued me even more was the variety of foods available during the celebration. From pies, to pizzas, to pigs in a blanket, everything sounded too delish to be true. As we are about to celebrate the 4th of July for 2013, I thought to share with you some of my favorite recipes that will delight your palate.

On the 4th of July, start your day with a patriotic breakfast.

4th2

What better way than using the red, blue and white colors of our flag? Mix your favorite Greek yogurt with blueberries, raspberries and almonds bits. Drizzle with honey and enjoy.

As lunch rolls in, you want to be able to have something easy that requires little work.  A sandwich seems a perfect solution. Call it PANINI and you have a winner! Is it finger food? Entree? No matter what, it will delight your taste buds.

4th4

You can use your imagination and make any of your favorite combinations. One of my favorite Panini assemblages is grilled bread, fresh tomatoes and basil with mozzarella. Stack of the ingredients and then place in a Panini press. If you don’t have one, just use your pan and press the Panini down with something heavy (i.e. smaller pan). However, your possibilities are infinite. Brie, pears and honey mustard is a perfect ten for a Panini.  As a side, you can serve veggies, salads, chips, kale chips, baked veggie etc.

As dinner roll in, the 4th of July screams ground meat! Specifically, burgers and meatballs. Burgers have always the spotlight, so today, we will focus on the underdogs:  Meatballs!

4th3

If you want to keep it leaner, use ground turkey. Otherwise, you can use ground beef. In a bowl, mix ground meat with your favorite seasoning. I usually use a chipotle based seasoning because of the smoked flavor. Add, one egg, a half a cup of bread crumbs (or panko or oatmeal), fresh herbs (especially sage and rosemary). Mix everything together. With your hands, form small balls and line on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Bake is oven for 25 minutes at 400 degrees. Serve hot or cold with your favorite sauce.

Of course we cannot forget about dessert.  This is the time to indulge. Buy your favorite desserts. The ones that you wish you could eat every day . The ones that make your eyes roll. And enjoy!

HAPPY 4th of JULY!

4th1

 

 

Five July 4th Inspired Wedding Ideas

The 4th of July means something different to everybody. Picnics in the park, barbecues, and of course fireworks, are all memories I’m sure many of us have.  There are so many ways to celebrate this special day on your special day. So I pulled together five great 4th of July inspired wedding ideas:

Let Them Eat Cupcakes: Although you may not want a three tiered red, white, and blue wedding cake, you can however do cupcakes with red, white, and blue icing. You can even place them in clear cupcake boxes. This allows your guests to take their cupcakes home. You have now created an edible souvenir for your guests!

Drink Up: Festive drinks are great no matter the occasion. So why not serve one that will help people celebrate the 4th? Try this 4th of July layered drink, Sobe Pina Colada, Fruit Punch, G2 Blueberry-Pomegranate. It’s not only visually appealing, it’s also delicious.

Dress Code: Give your guests a dress code. Ask them to dress in the colors that represent the 4th. Whether it’s a navy suit, red dress, or a white shoe, it doesn’t matter. Giving your friends this kind of creative freedom may be a little scary. It’s okay to give rules that may help rein in those friends who may take it a little too far. There is such a thing as being too festive.

Kiddie Blankets: If your reception is outside, this tip may be perfect for you. Often times kids aren’t allowed to attend the reception. If by chance you are allowing them to do so, instead of a table for the children, try laying out picnic blankets for the them to sit on. Create a space where they can eat, and make a mess. It’s also helpful for parents who worry about their children spilling on the beautiful tablecloth, or knocking over the centerpieces. This is also great if by chance you’re going to have a fireworks show.

Ending The Night: It’s traditional to throw rice, rose petals, or even blow bubbles. Try bending tradition a little. Give sparklers to your guests to light for your exit. You can then walk down the lit aisle arm in arm with the one you love, and into your wonderful new life that’s sure to be filled with infinite happiness.

The All American Bride

The 4th of July is right around the corner, and with wedding season in full swing, it is no surprise that many brides are wondering how to incorporate the Independence Day festivities into their special day. However, if the idea of throwing Old Glory willy-nilly all over your wedding reception makes you want to run for the hills, don’t you worry—we will show you how to add hints of 4th flair without creating a cheesy red, white, and blue festival.

LOCATION:
It can sometimes be difficult to walk the line between cheesy and classy when incorporating a strong theme into your reception. Picking the right location for your big day can be the first step in discovering just how far you can push your theme. For example, an outdoor reception can have more of a vintage Americana feel, while a reception in a hotel ballroom might restrict you in how far you can go with your 4th of July decorations. In other words, allow the “feel” of the venue dictate the “feel” of your theme choices. There is something “American” feeling about an outdoor wedding, whether it’s on a picturesque beach, a beautiful lakeside shore, a rustic barn, or under a tree in your own backyard.

VintageFourthofJuly (1)

DECORATIONS:
The décor will be the most impactful way for you to add some 4th flair. The key is choosing a design aesthetic that is cohesive—the last thing you want is some random flags stuck onto your table and cutouts of fireworks taped onto the walls. A classic “Americana” or Southern shabby-chic vibe fits into a Norman Rockwell aesthetic that is perfect for Independence Day. Think plaid, gingham, old lace, burlap, and rustic wooden signs and crates—easy, comfortable, and effortless beauty. If you want to go with red, white, and blue, keep the colors subdued and distressed, never bright or tacky. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns when it comes to your table decorations—mismatched linens, tableware, and flatware can give it an old, antique feel. It should look like everything came out of an old vintage trunk found in your grandmother’s attic, not like you bought it at a party store. Vintage flags can serve as table markers at the reception, while wildflowers in porcelain and glass vases delicately enhance the table. Stringing paper lanterns and tea lights add a romantic and nostalgic flare.

Adjusted Drink Station

FOOD:
Your food choices can be a fun and creative way to add some irony and humor into your reception. This is your chance to get cheesy! “Dressed-up” comfort food is a fantastic way to keep with your theme. Bacon-wrapped dates, macaroni and cheese, barbecue, gourmet grilled cheese, sliders, popcorn, a mashed potato bar—the list goes on! Cocktail choices range from craft beer to mint juleps, and for non-alcoholic drinks, think retro favorites: Coke served in real Coke bottles, lemonade, sweet tea, root beer. Mason jars are a great way to serve your drinks, but if you are worn-out from the whole Mason jar trend, you can always mix and match old glass bottles and jars. For desserts, caramel apples, cupcakes, and traditional pies are delicious options, while a snow-cone booth is sure to add some fun and quirk to any reception. Having an outdoor reception? Make a s’mores station around a campfire!

FourthofJulySweets

ODDS AND ENDS:
Continue your theme before and after your wedding by having your wedding stationery reflect your Independence Day motif—mixing patterns, using vintage-inspired fonts, and keeping the colors within the subdued color palette from your reception. You can also use the same type of stationery for writing your thank you notes. Wedding favors for your guests could be confetti poppers, sparklers, vintage flags, or even canned preserves from a local farm. Finish off your night with a private fireworks show or by driving off in a classic pick up truck or vintage car.

FourthofJulyPinwheelWindsocks

Finally, it is important to remember why we celebrate the 4th of July, and a great way to do that is by giving back. On your wedding registry, present your guests with the option of donating to a charity of your choice. There are several fantastic organizations that benefit veterans, soldiers, and military families. On your special day, nothing speaks more towards the spirit of the American people than giving back to those who helped us secure our freedom and those who are fighting to keep it intact.

Three Ways to Celebrate Your First Anniversary

While there might be millions of great ways to celebrate your honeymoon, many couples are left wondering what to do for their first anniversary. Sure, you and your significant other have gone to a wonderful destination like Hawaii, but after one year, are you really ready to go back? Even though it’s an amazing place, it’s not something to do every single year. Get a little variety in your life and do something crazy and maybe even the complete opposite for your first anniversary. Here are some great ideas to get your mind thinking about something special.

Alaskan Cruise

An amazing adventure awaits on one of the many cruises that go to Alaska. If you have never been, the 49th state is undoubtedly one of the most beautful and makes for a great destination during the summer months when it’s not too cold. Some of the cruises leave from Seattle, which is an amazing city to visit for a few days as well. Cruises to Alaska are filled with fun, food and adventure. Typically the cruise ships will stop every day at a new destination with tons of excursions to enjoy. In fact, I went on one of these cruises and one of the offshore excursions was a helicopter ride to the top of a glacier, where a dog-sled team would be waiting for you to take you back! Amazing! Even if you are just into nature and hiking, Alaska has it all. It’s really an amazing must-see location and the packages with cruises make for a great deal.

New York City

Rarely do you hear about New York City as a destination for a honeymoon. However, for those of you that have never been to perhaps the most amazing city in the entire world, it’s something not to miss. The dining in NYC is outstanding, there’s a million things to do and tons to see. The trip does tend to be expensive as staying even in mid-level hotels in Manhattan can cost upwards of $300 per night. Nevertheless, being able to walk around Central Park, take in a Broadway or off-Broadway show and see all the amazing sights like the Statue of Liberty make for a tremendous first anniversary you will never forget.

Staycation

If you find yourself on a budget, you might want to consider a stay-cation. This is when you take a vacation inside of your own city. Stay at a nice hotel, enjoy one of the nicer restaurants and just make it a very nice, relaxing weekend in your hometown. While it won’t have the adventure of watching Orcas in the open ocean like in Alaska, or watching Broadway’s top talent, it will be a really fun time with your significant other.

Something Borrowed, Something….Emerald Green!

Emerald Green Bridesmaid

Emerald Green Bridesmaid

The Pantone ‘color of 2013’ is versatile & fresh enough to bring into your wedding plans even if your wedding date is in 2015! As a main color, Emerald Green can be considered a neutral background or canvas to juxtapose splashes of vibrant colors against, such as fuchsia, orange, teal, lime green, or red. As a detail color, the possibilities are endless. Here, we will explore some ideas & benefits to choosing this timeless jewel tone.

1. Consider emerald green bridesmaid dresses. This color looks fantastic on absolutely every skin tone. Just look at the red carpet for proof: Julianne Moore, Angelina Jolie, & Viola Davis have all stunned in it. Pair orange roses for contrast or red shoes for an unexpected twist!

2. If you’re getting married on a golf course, you’ll be surrounded by yards of emerald green grass, so you may want to go with another color for your bridesmaids, so they don’t get lost! However, consider using emerald green in your invitations, thank you notes, photo album cover, and other wedding correspondence to ensure continuity of your theme & venue. When your guests receive your thank-you note, the green will remind them subconsciously of what a beautiful, well planned event they attended.

3. Use emerald green foliage to ‘fill out’ your floral elements. Have your florist add extra fern stalks, palm fronds, birds of paradise leaves, (you get the idea) to your venue arrangements for a super lush look. For a modern garden style wedding, consider setting a potted topiary at the end of each aisle. Cutting back on blooms and adding more foliage might also save you some paper green!

4. Have some fun with your signature cocktails by adding Midori or green food coloring to the mix. Ask your DJ if they can bathe the dance floor in emerald green for your couples dance. Extra points if they have green lasers for a club vibe when the music picks up later in the night. Order your favors in emerald green. Group them together for a visual impact, or place at each table setting with some emerald green in the centerpiece.

Emerald bracelets

5. Wear this precious gem for sentiment (& good luck!) if your or your groom’s birthday is in May, if you’re getting married in May, or if there are some cherished emerald pieces in your family collection. To top it off, gift your groom with emerald cuff-links to match!

The almighty Emerald is sure to keep your wedding scheme modern and fresh. Be careful not to over-do it, or you’ll end up with a Wizard of Oz / Emerald City vibe (unless you are going for that, and in that case, please invite me!).

 

Photos courtesy of Brandon Wong photography.

Five Trending Bridal Shower Looks for Summer

Hey gorgeous gals! Summer has officially kicked off, so it’s time to ditch the leggings and enjoy the sunshine in style. Summer bridal showers are a perfect platform to flaunt fun summer style, and this is your guide for what’s trending right now.

Look #1: Flowy and Free

 

 

The layered maxi skirt has been on the rise lately, and so has this gorgeous mermaid turquoise shade. To work this trend, I suggest pairing with a button up sleeveless blouse. A white top with an embellished collar dresses up a basic, making it a versatile piece in your wardrobe. Plus it is completely functional and comfy in the summer time! Pair it all with a detailed bun and flattering studs to create a look that is polished and still very trendy. If you’re heading to a bridal shower at a restaurant or even somewhere a little more adventurous, this look will be perfect.

Look #2: Down to Earth

 

For a look that is trendy with an earthy flair, keep an eye out for pretty braided accessories and lacy layered dresses. A simple belt at the high waistline is quite flattering around a tummy. Pair with a tailored blazer in a hot summer color, like orange. Just make sure to balance it out with nude heels so the color doesn’t clash with anything else.  If your bridal shower is at a home or is a family based event, this warm look is perfect.

Look #3: Classic Romantic

 

 

That Tiffany’s blue is always going to be perfect for any event bridal-related, hands down. This look particularly is polished and appropriate for any bridal shower. The modest neck line and the boxy cut of the dress hugs curves in the right places without being too tight or inappropriate. Pair with similarly toned creamy heels and a delicate hairpiece for a look that says ‘classic romance’ meets cute and trendy. To give the look a little more personal flair, pair it with a hot clutch. Knuckle rings have been popping up lately, and this clutch is a very flirty way to work that trend.

Look #4: Bohemian Beauty

 

This beautiful deep periwinkle tone is showing up everywhere and will be one of the hottest shades this season. The flattering shade will pull a summer glow out of any skin tone, creating an instant sun-kissed look. I’ve been loving this shade paired with warm browns to balance out the powerful periwinkle. For more casual bridal showers, a brown gladiator flat is both trendy and functional. For hair, I would suggest leaving your hair in loose waves either half up, or with a braided detail. This look is all about something beautiful with details that make it all the more personal.

Look #5: Retro Romantics

 

If you’re heading to a bridal shower that may be a bit more formal (at a country club, etc.), a look along these lines may be perfect for you. The peplum skirt is a trend that has been really taking off this season, and its’shape is both trendy and demure. I love this creamy pink, particularly paired with a lacy peeptoe heel. This look is all very feminine and romantic, but is updated with vintage accessories. The cat eye sunglasses fit seamlessly with the outfit while updating it to have a unique retro-inspired look. Vintage pieces and retro styles have been going strong, and because they are a proven classic any pieces will be instant staples of your wardrobe all year long.

 

Five Must Have Accessories for Your Wedding Day

Accessories add the perfect finishing touches to every outfit, and what better day to dress up your outfit than on your wedding day? The smallest details always enhance your look, and with the right ones, your look will be utter perfection. With these five accessories, you will be sure to look your best!

1. A VEIL: The best veil to use with any dress is the invisible veil – a simple tulle veil, with no edge, no trim, no anything. The best length to get is where it extends to about your ankles, and that way it subtly fades away into your dress, giving it that invisible look. The invisible veil is the best because it does not take away from your dress, it doesn’t cut you off, but it still gives you that sheer illusion and bridal touch. Wearing a veil completes the bridal look and will make you feel like a real bride. If you’re not fond of wearing a veil, then try a small bird cage, but definitely try the invisible one just in case!

2. EARRINGS: Jewelry has to be matched properly with the details on your dress, but you can never go wrong with a pair of earrings. If your dress is heavily embellished, it’s best to go with diamond stud earrings to compliment the decor. On the other hand, pearl or diamond teardrop earrings enhance the beauty of a simple gown. Necklaces and bracelets are tricky to match, but you always want your ears appropriately adorned.

3. SHOES: Your shoes are a way to show your uniqueness, your quirkiness, and your style. Wearing bright colored shoes that match your bridal party are a fun way to jazz up your look. If your bridal party is wearing all black, I would still recommend wearing your favorite color shoes, or another color that is used in your decorations. The pop of color brought out by your shoes adds for great pictures, and also shows a statement as you walk down the aisle and your shoes peep through the bottom of the gown. A pop of color always enhances the mood! Another option would be just to wear a shade of blue shoes for your ‘something blue.’

4. A HEADPIECE: When it is time to party at the reception, you want to subtly change up your style with a signature headpiece. Veils are primarily worn for the ceremony, but occasionally some brides will choose to wear it for the whole night. It is always nice though to replace the veil with a headpiece to accessorize your hair for the remainder of the evening. A cute organza flower with silver beads or thin feathers are feminine and elegant while still adding a feeling of fun. It is a subtle change but it can give your look a totally different feel.

5. Your SMILE: Your smile is the best accessory that you as a bride can wear. It is your day to shine, and your pictures will last forever. So be sure to just enjoy the day, and smile constantly throughout the day!