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08 Jul 2011

Front and Center

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Hair….check, Makeup….check…..Dress…check….Jewelry….check. Got it all, right? Well, not quite. Guess what item is going to make a pretty prominent cameo in most, if not all of your photos…your bouquet! I like to think of the bouquet as the last accessory completing a bride’s look, and of course, it therefore MUST be ultra fabulous. Good thing is there is soooo much to choose from. Bad thing is, well…there’s sooo much to choose from! In light of all the amazing variety out there, I thought I’d share some obsessions catching my eye lately – unique bouquets that feature a single bloom or no blooms at all!

(left) Succulents aka plants that store water in their leaves and roots, are on my radar as the most unexpected and insanely gorgeous addition to any wedding. Want proof? Just google succulents in any one of your fave wedding blogs and you’re sure to come across some pretty drool-worthy inspiration. I love them coupled with more romantic blooms or on their own for a modern edge. {Image and more succulent wedding love from Jesi Haack design}

(above/right) Given my love for all things vintage, and obsession with brooches (see post here and here) jeweled brooch bouquets are inspiring me to dump out my entire jewelry box and create one of these beauties for myself! For a vintage-inspired wedding, this look is a must -try – we promise you’ll be the first of your friends! We found the one above/right) on Style Me Pretty and here’s an up close look at one of these lovely artistic bouquets, found on Wedding Chicks.

(left) Emplume is responsible for this whimsical fairy-inspired bouquet, and might I add, I’m completely taken by it. In case you’re wondering, it’s composed of “forest green feathers, preserved mushroom ‘petals,’ alight with butterflies, fuschia swarovski jewels, and is finished in back with a moss covered trellis wrapping over a velvety handle”

(right) I absolutely love mixing varied textural elements in my gowns, hence why I’m obsessed with this one… burlap, lace, and dried flowers & stems make this bouquet the epitome of rustic/vintage.

(left) Ok so when’s the last time you thought of tumbleweed for a wedding…Probably never. Well your socks will officially be blown off when you see how Jesi Haack pulled it together as the inspiration for this desert mod wedding. Yes, I’m cheating just a bit because this bride did also have a floral bouquet…but there’s nothing wrong with having a second one as a prop for editorial photos is there?

(right) As the saying goes, “Bigger is better” and as it concerns this huge flower, I’m going to have to agree. I unfortunately have no idea what type of bloom this is (florist friends??) but it came from Making Arrangements via Style Me Pretty

(left) Design that lasts through time was the inspiration behind this Savlador Dali-themed bouquet of feathers and ribbons. I love the idea of a bouquet that never wilts!

(right) Hundreds of rose petals are carefully affixed together in this bouquet to create one huge dramatic rosette. I love this as a fresh way to modernize traditional roses, still keeping it simple and pure.

(left) Can you believe this beauteous bouquet (above left) is crafted out of paper? We found them, and a lot of hunky guys carrying bouquets in Grace Ormonde Wedding Style

(right) There’s such a wood nyph/enchanted forest feel to this moss covered bouquet isn’t there? I love the burst of color from just a few bright blooms tucked on the side. Found here

I simply adore the fresh look of lavendar or wheat bouquets for rustic, outdoor nuptials.

Of course, we couldn’t possibly cover all our lusts in one post alone, so check back for more beauteous bouquets soon!

06 Jul 2011

Artfully seated

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I’ll admit it… annoying as it might be to others, I like to arrive early to the wedding ceremony…. I scope out my seat where I’ll score the perfect view of the bride as she enters and have a nice clean shot of the groom, so I can catch a glimpse of his face when he sees his bride for the first time….Even if it means I’ve gotta listen to a violinist play the same melody ten times, getting a sweet seat at a wedding is just as, if not more important than prime seats at the NBA playoffs in my opinion. But it wasn’t until a recent wedding that I not only noticed WHERE I was sitting, but WHAT I was sitting on…your very standard chiavari chair that you’ve probably seen a million times over if you’ve been to a wedding or two, or ten…. and all set in perfectly straight symmetrical rows with a lovely little aisle in the center. Now this is all well and good, but what struck me as odd is that brides (like my friend) with great taste and style, who’s blood, sweat, and tears go into perfecting every last detail of the most unique wedding are not thinking much about seating, and losing out on a major element of overall decor and ambience! So I’m feeling compelled to interject with some inspiration to get all you fab brides you thinking…. Whether your budget is modest or grand, seating is certainly something every bride should at least consider, so here are are some of my picks for ending the “bum ho-hum”.

Wandering

A straight aisle is always expected so instead, use your seating to carve out one that meanders gracefully, adding a subtle but beautiful creative touch.

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Surround

Give every guest the perfect view by creating a seating scheme in the round, a’la ancient Greek theatre. It will truly make you feel like you’re surrounded with love from friends and family.

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Benches

I just adore the look of benches for a ceremony, especially given the variety – from rustic to contemporary to cozy, even mixed in with traditional seating.

{one, two, three, four}

Unique chairs

Many venues offer their own chairs for free but if your budget allows, renting chairs in the style of your wedding, be it antique or modern, really adds something special to your decor.

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Mismatched

Create an eclectic and offbeat feel by pairing mismatched chairs or benches together. I particularly love this look for vintage inspired nuptials.

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Invisible

Ghost chairs practically disappear into their surroundings are are a stunning addition to decor ranging from rustic to ultra-modern. The contradiction between a worn red brick wall and super modern chairs is so fresh! And they don’t compete with your decor!

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Hays bales

There’s something about rustic weddings that makes my heart skip a beat, and haystacks bring it all together with a touch of whimsy a’la Monet meets cowboy chic.

{images: one, two}

Check back soon for more inspiration on the freshest looks for ceremony and reception, and more unique seating ideas!

01 Jul 2011

Honeymoon at Home – Jackson Hole, Wyoming

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In honor of the long holiday weekend and our Independence Day, we thought it the perfect opportunity for the second installment of our “Honeymoon at Home” series (see our first post here) featuring the most luxurious, fabulous, and off-the-beaten-path honeymoon locales right here in the USA! On the board today, we’re taking a trip to Jackson Hole. Now I KNOW you’re thinking, Wyoming, really?!@?!? Well believe it or not, Jackson Hole is a jewel of the Northwest, destination for some of the world’s most seasoned travelers, and where celebs and heavy hitters frequent for their paparazzi-free retreats or own second + homes. Tucked away in a valley of the Rocky Mountains, it’s the ideal spot to get lost for a little while post wedding. A mix of “cowboy country and celebrity refuge” (says Travel and Leisure), the atmosphere is sophisticated but completely understated…you’ll trade fur coats and stilettos for jeans and cowboy boots, even while staying or dining in the world’s most luxurious lodging and restaurants. Here’s a peek at where to stay:

Four Seasons

For pure luxury, service, and style the Four Seasons simply must be on our list. If you visit in the snowy months, enjoy the pure ease of ski-in/ski-out access to the Teton Mountains, cuddling by the fire, and après-ski s’mores at the hot springs-style whirlpools. In Spring/Summer, savor the beauty of the natural Alpine surroundings and relax with your hunny golfing, hiking, and luxuriating in the unspoiled natural beauty of panoramic mountain views. For honeymoon/mini-mooning, I’d invest in a private spa suite with a fireplace and soaking tub for unparalleled romance. www.fourseasons.com/jacksonhole

{images: Four Seasons}

Amangani

It’s no surprise that the name means peaceful home. This super luxurious resort is a premier ski locale in the winter and the perfect relaxation getaway in the Spring/Summer. Perched 7,000 feet above sea level Amangani is surrounded by breathtaking snow capped mountains and overlooks beautiful meadows below. Its 40 suites feature soaking tubs with views out into the Snake River Mountains, stone fireplaces, and decor reflecting the rugged minimalism of the natural countryside. In the warmer months, you’ll enjoy winding strolls and hiking trails through the wildflower covered mountains and valleys, wildlife safaris, mountain biking in Grand Teton National Park, hot air ballooning, and golf on championship courses. And winter won’t disappoint…Voted the #1 North American ski resort by Conde Nast, it averages 400 inches of snow a year and some of the most coveted skiing in the world. And don’t miss a trip to nearby Yellowstone National Park during your stay! www.amangani.com

{images: Amangani}

Rusty Parrot Lodge

Smaller still, this comfortably luxurious and homey family-run resort features only 31 rooms, making it the perfectly private little getaway for you and your groom. Many of J.H’s resorts are located slopeside but if you quite like the apres-ski experience or are traveling in the warmer months Rusty Parrot is the ideal choice, featuring plush and comfortable western style rooms, exemplary staff that will know your name upon arrival, and is situated just a short stroll from restaurants, shops and art galleries in town. During the warmer months enjoy horseback riding,whitewater rafting, kayaking, wave surfing, hiking and mountain biking along scenic trails, wildlife safaris, hot air ballooning, parasailing , and outstanding golf. Or stay indoors and luxuriate at the Body Sage Spa. www.rustyparrot.com

{images: Rusty Parrot}

Our journey continues, so check back for more fabulous getaways soon!

22 Jun 2011

Bellisimo!

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{images:Harry’s Bar}

If Europe is your guilty pleasure getaway (like me), you’ll probably agree that of all the countries, Italy is one of the most mesmerizing places in the world….From couture fashion to culture to food to fabulous Italian men, it’s everything a luxurious European vacation should be! It’s been far too long since I’ve been but one of my favorite spots, and if you’ve never been, Venice should certainly be on your list…especially being that it unfortunately will sink someday! As most who visit Venice will tell you, not to be missed is Harry’s Bar, founded by Giuseppe Cipriani in 1931. This small bar & restaurant , located on the St. Marks waterfront is a Venice institution, made famous for its aristocratic and celebrity clientele who frequent(ed) Venice on holiday – names in the original guest book include icons like artist Georges Braques, Orson Welles, Charlie Chaplin, Truman Capote, Peggy Guggenheim, and the like…. but Harry’s Bar is perhaps most known for being the birthplace of the Bellini cocktail, a mixture of fresh white peach and prosecco. Though the menu was terribly pricey (we’re talking $40 for a salad) I had a lovely lunch, of course topped off with the signature drink, which was just as divine as expected.

Ever since, the refreshing crisp taste of bellinis instantly bring me back to my fabulous Italian jaunt. So you can imagine my jubilation when mutual wedding friends introduced me to a brand new bottled champagne cocktail, the “Bel Air Bellini.” Infused with white peach flavor, it so perfectly captures the essence of my beloved Venice, and if I close my eyes, I can just picture myself sitting at an immaculately appointed little table with sweeping views over St. Mark’s Square, sipping away. Of course, as the name suggests, this particular bellini is crafted with Bel Air style in mind… meaning it has the right blend of glamour, class, elegance, and taste…. who would expect anything less from the birthplace of the “Fresh Prince”?

The delish champagne cocktail officially launches on July 1 and you bet I’ll have my champagne flute ready because it’s just the perfect cocktail for any wedding festivity from a dignified ladies luncheon or shower to wedding-day champagne toasts, and don’t you just love the pinky blush color! Delicious on its own or mixed to create a variety of cocktails, it’s a fresh, unique alternative to plain old champagne, and a treat your guests will love. And adding a signature cocktail to your wedding will automatically amp up the mood and leave your guests talking about how creative you are… Here are a few options to consider , straight from Bel Air Bellini’s own mixologists!

Cheers!

Bel-Air Bellini Mimosa

¾ Flute of Bel-Air Bellini
¼ Flute Fresh Squeezed OJ

Bel-Air Bellini Martini

¾ Flute of your favorite BAB
¼ Flute of Premium Chilled Vodka
Twist of lemon or lime

The New Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

½ Flute of Bel-Air Bellini
1 shot Premium Vodka
½ Flute of energy drink (i.e redbull)
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of 24 karats gold flakes to impress!

Bel-Air Bliss

¼ Flute of hpnotiq
¾ Flute of Bel-Air Bellini
Serve it with a maraschino cherry garnish

I have to admit, my favorite way to enjoy Bel Air Bellini is au natural…. straight up in a champagne flute.

20 Jun 2011

Tangled Up in Ribbons

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With the onset of summer’s warm gentle winds, my mind is filled with inspirational wedding details that capture the breeze… Today, we’re unraveling the latest lovely decor detail that’s perfect for brides looking for something unique and bold but still feminine, romantic, and summery…. ribbons and rough cut fabrics! Based on how you design the color scheme, the look comes together as either modern-chic or vintage-whimsical… but either way, it’s a gorgeous alternative OR complement to floral arrangements, and a cost-effective one at that. From backdrops to table runners to dessert bars, we’ve been spotting this trend simply jumping off the page in wedding photos. Here’s a peek at how this light-as-a-feather inspiration comes to life!

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Dress up any space with a wall or canopy overhead crafted of rough cut fabric or ribbon in variant hues for the perfect backdrop for breathtaking photos. I particularly like the way a simple swag of fabric creates a vignette around your sweet table, giving it real vintage glamour.

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Automatically update details you love! Manzanita trees and branches have been on trend for years, and we usually see them with rosebuds or hydrangeas tucked into or wrapped around their branches. Strung fabric moves the trend forward. A beautifully dressed chair (below) can change the entire look and feel of the space, but instead for traditional chair covers, ribbon ties make a bold artistic statement.

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Going monochromatic or creating blocks of color like the pale pink/cream/brown scheme above creates a modern Mondrian-esque feel, while integrating multiple fabrics and textures adds vintage elegance and charm.

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We featured this super modern interpretation here a few weeks ago, when we looked upwards for design inspiration. Hanging crystal-weighted ribbons from the ceiling creates a dramatic look and intimate feel, bringing the space closer and creating an airy sky for your guests. Coupled with bold lighting, this modern take on ribbon is so fresh and innovative!

If you adore non-traditional, innovative wedding-day details and drool-worthy decor, we’re always on the lookout so check back for more inspirational ideas to come!

15 Jun 2011

Bridal Bites

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I’d be willing to bet you’ve been to many a wedding and heard the following phrase… “steak or chicken?” Good thing you were already adequately buzzed because the food certainly wasn’t anything worth remembering. Well if you’re in the market for something a bit more tastebud tantilizing, we’ve got good news! Wedding fare is at a major turning point – evolving, transforming, and reinventing itself, taking cues from the hottest food trends cropping up around the country, in pop culture, and from key foodie influencers and restauranteurs. Wondering what’s cooking for 2011/2012! From sophisticated to cultured to downright homespun, these are some of the coolest and most delicious bridal bites we’re spotting! Dig in!

Top Chef – duos and trios

Perhaps it’s from watching too much of Bravo’s hit show, or just plain indecision, but we’re seeing a trend towards having multiple (2-3) smaller portioned entrees or even desserts, all served on a single plate. Perfect for foodie couples, you’ll get a gourmet multi-course fine dining experience condensed into more time-friendly bites, so your guests won’t spend the evening in their seats waiting for their next course.

{images: Bravo}

Contained

Whether it’s in a cone, on a spoon, or in a shotglass, the portability factor of a container gives your guests free reign to grab and go.

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Food Trucks

You’ve undoubtedly spotted them on your own street corner… “gastro-trucks” are the latest craze popping up around the country, and now at your nuptials! From sweet to savory, hometown favorites to gourmet fare, and a far cry from the ice cream man. Our pick is scheduling the truck to arrive towards the end of the evening with sweets or late night munchies, to help your guests stay energized to dance the night away.

{image: Green Wedding Shoes}

Color or theme

At Engage (one of the country’s biggest and most fabulous wedding industry soirees) the event colors of red, white, and black were woven through every last detail of the day…even the food! The masterminds behind the event created a fabulous strawberry bar that included just about anything strawberry or red you can imagine … strawberry cookies and sweets, parfaits, macaroons, soda, licorice, and even infused drinks! Incorporating your color scheme or a flavor theme into a custom food bar is a fabulous way to make a visual and notably creative, not to mention tasty impression.

images: Style Me Pretty

DIY

Get your guests engaged with interactive food stations, like a hands-on smores bar ( such a fond childhood memory!). Or instead of serving a plated dinner, consider a beautiful DIY gourmet buffet like this one pictured. Garden scissors were placed next to rosemary and basil so guests could snip fresh herbs into their dishes.

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All In The Family

Have a family recipe that’s been passed down for generations? Grandma’s decadent cookies or your aunt’s famous jam? Bring those beautiful traditions into your wedding celebration! Late night favors or treats in your guest’s welcome bags are the perfect opportunity to share your family’s rich history.

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Old School

The last Jello shot you took may have been at a frat party, but this wiggly kitchy stuff is making a classy comeback…for weddings! Michelle Palm, blogger behind Jelly Shot Test Kitchen, redefines classic cocktails (Cosmopolitans to Margaritas to Mimosas) in jellified form using high quality ingredients and liquors – of course in that classic jiggly form that’s sure to delight your guests! Of course, it doesn’t have to be Jello – any kitchy throwback food is sure to please.

{images: Jelly Shot Test Kitchen}

Jarred & Canned

I just love the personal feel of homemade wedding favors, that leave guests with something sweet to remember their day. Deconstructed cupcakes are one of my favorites, along with fresh preserves! And have you ever seen anything as creative as this mason jar picture frame – fill with olive oil to give your photo a sepia quality….gorgeous!

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13 Jun 2011

Sugar High – Fantasy Frostings

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If, like me, at any given wedding you eagerly await the cutting of the cake, and leave a lot of extra room for dessert, we’ve got a major sweet treat for you today. We recently had the pleasure of meeting and working with Fantasy Frostings, wedding cake artists and confectioners extraordinaire. You may recognize this California company’s cakes from some pretty high brow celeb weddings (check out their press page) , but this family owned biz has been creating wedding cakes since 1971, which is more than modestly impressive being that that’s longer than I’ve even been alive!!! Well , as you’d imagine, after 40 years doing anything, you get preeeety darn good at whatever it is, and I’ll attest firsthand, these folks are cake masters. Beyond their too-pretty-to eat exterior (yeah right, I’m digging right in!!) their cakes are so sinfully delicious, it’s just unfair. Their “Chocolate Fudge Surprise” in particular makes me want to live in stretchy pants for the rest of my natural born life. Exhibit A : Dense, Dark Chocolate layers glorified with hand beaten fudge, dark chocolate mousse and a rich layer of ganache with crushed English toffee. Are you drooling yet?

Images: Fantasy Frostings

But (wo)man can’t live on cake alone, and I’m sure you’d agree that when it comes to things sweet, more IS always better…. That’s why I am flipping for Fantasy Frosting’s utterly decadent dessert bars, which are equally divine and are chock full of so much sweet delicious variety, you’ll feel like you’ve walked right into the pearly gates! Here’s one they created below with all the bells and whistles!

Of course, we got the inside scoop, slater, and shmear about this new craze straight from Fantasy Frosting’s owners Leslie and Earl who told us that sweet bars are THE wedding trend du jour and quickly becoming the dessert Trump card at weddings. Brides and grooms are loving the customization options and ability to add that special personal touch to their festivities, giving guests something to talk about post-wedding! Says FF, on the rise are requests for treats and comfort foods that the couple has loved since childhood i.e. mini whoopie pies, pecan pies, cobblers and the like. But, alas, could this be the end of my beloved cake???? The FF duo said most couples still opt for a traditional decorated fondant or buttercream wedding cake for presentation purposes and the ever so important cake cutting photo opp, but are adding dessert bars too for their wow factor.

One of the freshest ideas is creating a thematic scheme around your sweets table with colors that tie to your decor,flavors, or old school favorites. And FF has done it all from cake shooters, cake pops, cookies, chocolate dipped marshmallows, pretzels, and dipped oreos, whoopie pies, peach cobbler shots, cupcakes, candy jars, brownies, cheesecake, fruit tarts and on and on… the possibilities are literally endless!!

Out of all these delicious treats, my personal pick might have to be the deconstructed cupcake in a jar…pictured above. I mean how genius, you can eat your cupcake with a spoon, fork, or bare hands practically anywhere…just don’t hold Fantasy Frostings or us liable if you get pulled over with a facefull of frosting. And the best part is you can save some for later if you’re into the portion control kind of thing…though we don’t think you’ll be able to make it through the day, let alone the hour, without polishing it off!

A great big thanks to our friends and sugar wizards at Fantasy Frostings for making my perpetual transition into stretch pants worthwhile! Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some eating to do!

09 Jun 2011

Inspired by Ombre

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At the moment, I’m feeling inspired by breathtaking summer sunsets with soft color gradations, like shades of deep eggplant and violet that fade to soft lavender hues. The striated ombre effect is so modern and unexpected, and beautifully suited for your own wedding day inspiration! I’m dreaming up gorgeous ways to incorporate ombre into our collection of gowns and accessories with dip dyed silks that slowly fade into from rich to pale shades of peach, blush, creme, or eggshell or even beading that gradually transitions from one hue to the next. Take a cue from the lustrous summer sundown for a palette that’s fresh, dramatic, and incredibly chic!

{Image from Paris Hotel Boutique, Inside Weddings}

Event lighting is key to creating an overall mood and atmosphere and the twilight sky just happens to be one of the most gorgeous color schemes to draw your inspiration. Vibrant violet and cobalt blue lighting dramatically saturate any event space, carving out out a bold and elegant ambience!

{Images: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6}

Fading layers of fondant make even a simple cake a pure work of art! Opt for florals that start from white and gradually make their way down one shade of the color wheel, or layered cocktails. This one’s called the Seductive Swan!

{Images: 1, 2}

Balloons add a whimsical touch to your photos and would be so pretty in gradient shades. Go tonal for your bridesmaids gowns and allow your friends to each choose one shade of the same base color… the resulting look is so exceptionally chic and unexpected, and your aisle will look more like a fashion show than a processional.

{Image: Green Wedding Shoes}

Here’s the Seductive Swan recipe!

  • 1.5 oz Russian Standard Vodka, 5 blackberries, 3 oz Lemonade Muddle, four blackberries in bottom of a tumbler.
  • Add ice, Russian Standard Vodka and lemonade. Garnish with remaining blackberry.
06 Jun 2011

Getting Pretty with Mariah Nicole

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Just in time for our beauty & style event THIS Thursday, we had the opportunity to pick the brain of amazing hair & makeup artist, Mariah Nicole Buian, who will be offering FREE mini hair trials for brides-to-be during our event! Your hairdo is key to pulling together your white carpet style, and we can’t wait for our attendees to experience Mariah’s transformative touch, plus a chance to envision their overall bridal look, with gorgeous headpieces from one of our favorite designers, Lo Boheme! One of the fab perks about Mariah is that she can do both gorgeous hair AND makeup too, a major bonus because it allows her to seamlessly blend and balance the two and create an overall picture perfect look for her brides! Mariah’s aesthetic is totally in touch with what’s happening on the runways and epitomizes high fashion bridal style. Here’s an insider look at what trends, styles, and products Mariah is loving this season!!

Q: First things first….What’s the best course of action to prepare your skin and hair before the wedding?

A: Brides, of course, want perfect, glowing skin for their big day. The best way to achieve that is to start taking care of your skin 3 months before the wedding. The best choice is to find a trusted and licensed aesthetician for waxing, facials, peels, and professional skin care. Store bought products are ok, but salon products have stronger strength. The key is exfoliation and hydration! With hair, a bride can fix dry damaged hair by getting trims regularly and doing deep conditioning treatments. Brides may also consider adding low-lights or high-lights to add dimension to their locks.

Q: What are your favorite bridal looks for spring/summer?

A: I love the bright fruity watermelon lips with clean bright eyes. Light bronzer also defines features without looking too fake. (Image via Glamour)

 

Q: Are you incorporating any runway trends into your weddings?

A: This seasons runways are showing loose, tousled, and highly textured DIY-looking hair styles. The key is that hair NOT be perfect and sleek or architectural. Many of my clients want hair that looks easy, soft, and romantic. The days of curls piled atop the crown of the head with a 2″ tiara are gone, and I’m excited for the change! I’m happy to urge brides to try hair that’s natural, soft, and full of texture. I love the use of silk flowers, brooches or jeweled hair clips to add color and sparkle to enhance the style. (Below are a few styles she’s created – top for editorial, bottom for real brides!)

For makeup, we saw runways debuting bright, bold colors, almost the polar opposite of hair trends. For summer, I just love flushed cheeks and stained lips. Adding warmth to the face enhances every bride’s youth and energy by adding a healthy glow. And stains are perfect for grooms who won’t shy from kissing the bride when he knows he won’t get covered in lipstick! I know many brides want to use neutral colors on their eyes but this year is about color! I love it when a bride gets bold and chooses a soft, bright lavender, or a sheer icy blue. These are great colors to combine with neutrals but will add pizazz to the eyes. {Image: InStyle}

Q: There are so many options when it comes to lashes…from lash growing formulas to falsies….what are your picks?

A: Many women don’t wear false lashes on a regular basis, so when it comes time for the wedding the feeling of a strip of lashes is uncomfortable. I find that brides do best with individual or “clump” lashes, which are 3-5 hairs bound to a single base. These lashes are easy to apply, they stay on better and longer than strip lashes, and they are hardly detectable. I’ve seen great results on clients from using lash growing formulas like Latisse. This treatment really does work and can have dramtic results. Brides won’t be needing falsies after using that formula for 6 months. Brides who need more filling in than what the individual lashes can offer should use strip lashes. Most brands design “natural” looks, as well as “glamour” and “fashion.” Brides should try a few different looks to see what works best for the eye shape and to determine the drama level. One thing is definite, long lashes look incredible in photos!

Q: Our brides are always curious how to switch up their hair and makeup between rehearsal dinner and wedding…any suggestions?

A: This is a newer trend in weddings. And I find it is most common with brides who are changing dresses between the ceremony and reception, however it can be for any reason. It is important to let he hair stylist know ahead of time if this is your plan. What I do for my clients is make sure I set the 1st hairstyle in a way that it can easily transform into the 2nd look. Also, if you plan to do the 2nd look yourself then it is a good idea to practice at or after your trial so that the stylist can make it as easy as possible for you. I won’t use too strong of hairspray when I do this so that the hair remains flexible enough for restyling. I prefer to have the hair up to start, that way I can create the perfect look for my bride. Then it is much easier to take out the pins, tousle or touch-up the curls for an all down or half down look. But if a bride wants a very DIY updo for the reception, then the stylist can create perfect curls or waves, which will last for hours and then can be easily pinned up for the party.

Q:What are some of your “secret weapon” products?

A: If I told you then they wouldn’t be secret! Well, I must admit that a major secret weapon I use for all brides is a unique makeup sealing spray. I apply it last and it makes the makeup waterproof and last up to 12hrs! Tyra Banks used to be a spokesmodel for the brand and for good reason! It’s called “Model in a Bottle” and comes in 2 formulas.

 

Want more from Mariah? Join us June 9th for the chance to meet her and get beautified at our beauty & style event THIS THURSDAY at LA’s acclaimed Bridal Bar!! RSVP to info@michellerahn.com

 

 

05 Jun 2011

Behind the Lens – Miha Matei Photography

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Our inaugural fete is coming up next week, and we literally can’t wait!! Brides are in for some serious pampering, with FREE mini hair trials (yes, you did hear that right), a swoon-worthy trunk show with one of our favorite headpiece and veil designers, Lo Boheme, to adorn brides’ new “do”, and of course yummy treats, sweets, and bubbly! We’re especially thrilled to have fab photographer Miha Matei on hand, capturing all our our lovely brides’ gorgeous new wedding day looks. We adore her natural photo-journalistic style, and the carefree and artistic quality of her images…. There’s something so authentic and intimate about photos snapped when the subject doesn’t realize anyone is looking… perfection!!

We had the opportunity to chat with Miha about her unique style and some of her favorite wedding day trends… Here’s an insider peek at her perspective behind the lens!

Q: How do you prepare for a wedding?

A: I usually talk to the bride and groom about what photos are most important to them, so that they day of I know what to expect. I also think it’s important to plan out how long it will take to do the formals and WHEN they will be done.

Q: What’s the best timing for formal photos?

A: I’ve been seeing a trend towards shooting the formals before the ceremony, so that the couple can spend more time with their guests during the cocktail hour. This way, they are not rushed and they can still have a ‘first look’ in a more private moment than they would if they saw each other ‘for the first time’ during the ceremony. Another thing for the bride and groom to take into consideration is that if the formals are done before the ceremony, their photographer can spend the cocktail hour taking photos of the reception details and candids of the guests. If the details are shot during daylight, this allows for the photos to have a more editorial look, which I love!

Q: Your style is so natural and authentic…How do you balance staged formals with natural photo journalistic shots?

A: There is plenty of time for more staged shots during the engagement shoot, so for me, the magic of the wedding day is that I get to capture real moments, so I don’t like to have anything staged or posed. I prefer minimal makeup and gorgeous hair. If the bride feels amazing, it will show through to the photos!

Q: What’s your favorite part of the day to shoot?

A: I love capturing the sweet moments that happen between the couple and the details.

Q: Are there any trends in florals and decor that are inspiring you?

A: I love details that are hand made, vintage and colorful. I would say that the brides who are attracted to my work pay a lot of attention to the details for their big day, so most of the weddings that I shoot are DIY and very charming. For flowers, I’ve been seeing a lot of texture, layers and color. I think brides are inspired by all of the online wedding blogs and are not afraid to take chances when it comes to their decor. It’s been a photographer’s dream!!

Q: Are there any special lenses etc that you shoot with or effects that you like using?

A: I love shooting with fixed lenses, specifically Canon F1.2 50mm and the Canon F1.2 80mm. They create a sense of depth and capture light beautifully! I try to use digital as film, in that I underexpose by one stop and push in post. This creates the color saturation that film offers.

Q: When getting married outdoors, what considerations should brides take in regards to their photos?

A: I would tell brides to not have their heart set on a particular spot, in case it gets too sunny. Shooting in bright sun often creates harsh shadows. Photographing all of the formals with trees or a field in the background could be very pretty, but mixing in some shots in front of the reception building or the ceremony site, will add a sense of space and tell the story of the day.

Q: Any tricks to get the bride/groom to loosen up on their wedding day?

A: I think the photographer plays a big role in getting the bride and groom to loosen up and be natural, so I would tell them to choose a photographer whose personality they are comfortable with.


Thanks Miha for giving us a look behind the lens!! I’m going nuts over ALL her work, especially these detail shots, aren’t you!? I think the half eaten cake might be my favorite! Want more of Miha? Join us June 9th for our big style event!
See more of Miha’s beautiful work HERE