Bows aren’t just for little girls anymore. They can be adorable, but when it comes to weddings, they can also be very romantic. With bows being an elegant addition to an event, there are many ways to incorporate this sweet detail to your wedding. Your gown, the cake, the invitations, and your shoes are just some of the things you can find that are embellished with bows.

1. Peach Bows and Ribbons Wedding Cake – http://www.cmnycakes.com  2. Twist Bow Clutch – http://www.etsy.com/shop/DavieandChiyo  3. Modern Crystal Bow Earrings with Teardrop – http://www.perfectdetails.com  4. Satin and Lace Bow Garter – Style 270 – http://www.thegartergirl.com  5. Badgley Mischka Mabel Silver Wedding Shoes – http://www.myglassslipper.com  6. Pnina Tornai Gown – Style 4212 – http://www.pninatornai.com  7. Allison Silk Box Invitation – http://www.revelryinvitations.com  8. Tiffany Anniversary Morganite Necklace – Tiffany & Co. (800) 843-3269

One of the prettiest trends this wedding season is ombré. Ombré is a French term meaning “shaded”, and it is typically seen as a multicolored stripe with colors graduating from light to dark. Ombré creates a beautiful effect you see when colors or tones gradually fade into each other.

Source: Mori Lee

You can use it just as you would use any color. It adds a touch of fun and excitement with out going too over the top, and it’s so easy to incorporate this trend into your wedding theme. It can work on cakes, wedding flowers, dresses, aisles, invitations, and as you can see, even chair covers.  Will you use it in your wedding?  Do you like this trend?

Source: Indira Collection; Wild Orchid Baking

Source: Lotus Petals Floral Design; Cricket Printing

Source: Wildflower Linens; Martha Stewart Weddings

Happy Monday beauties! To start out another amazing week ahead, we’re sharing some lovely fall inspirations from Mandy Liento, owner of La Sorella Bridal. (Don’t worry, we’re certainly not passing up the spring or summer just yet. We have so many fun inspirations to share for the upcoming season, but we just couldn’t wait to share all of the gorgeousness from this autumn shoot.) Mandy used this photo shoot as an opportunity to showcase two ladies (hair stylist, Kristen and makeup artist, Dawn) from her talented team. Mandy and her fabulous team pulled together a selection of talented models, beautiful dresses, and gorgeous accessories for this shoot. All the dresses and some of the accessories came from I Do…I Do… in Morristown. Alisa Brides also provided some accessories and custom veils! The shoot took place at the Valley Regency in Clifton, New Jersey, where the vibrant tones of the fall foliage added the perfect amount of color and warmth. With the addition of beautiful bouquets from Valley Regency’s house florist Regency Design, they were all set for a fantastic shoot. Photos were taken by Brittany Ostrov from Brittany O photography, who specializes in bridal and journalistic photogrpahy.

“I knew Jennifer was out of my league from day one, but when she wanted to go out, I took it, ran, and still haven’t looked back,” reminisced Kenneth. Since their initial meeting, high school sweethearts Jennifer and Kenneth dated, and after succeeding their first year of college in a long-distance relationship, they knew they would one day wed. Six years from the day the two declared their love for each other, Kenneth took Jennifer to Lavallette and under the quaint gazebo he proposed. “After spending a few hours at the beach, we returned home and our families were waiting for us with a surprise party that Kenneth had planned. It was so nice that we had our alone time, but could also share in the excitement with both families,” shared Jennifer.

Watching Jennifer walk down the aisle of Holy Family Chapel was Kenneth’s favorite memory of the day. He commented, “It was such a special moment.” Jennifer wore a Paloma Blanca gown with sweetheart strapless neckline, A-line silhouette, and Swarovski crystal embellishments. A cathedral-length blusher veil and raspberry-colored shoes completed her look. Kenneth sported a traditional black tuxedo with black vest and white tie, while his groomsmen coordinated nicely with the bridesmaids’ sage green dresses.

When the couple began planning their June 24, 2011 wedding, they knew they wanted to have a June celebration at a facility that hosted one event at a time. Upon visiting Brooklake Country Club for the first time, Jennifer and Kenneth were impressed by the accommodating staff, beautiful grounds, and the facility’s ability to accommodate cocktail hour either indoors, outdoors, or both. “The staff exceeded our expectations. They paid attention to every detail and went out of their way to make sure every one of our guests’ needs were met,” Jennifer and Kenneth agreed. Guests enjoyed a lavish cocktail hour, including a seafood raw bar, carving station, and pasta station in addition to various hors d’oeuvres, a martini bar, and two signature drinks called “As Good as It Gets” and “Head Over Heels.” A choice of Chilean sea bass, filet mignon, or French-cut chicken breast was served for dinner.

In between dancing and socializing, guests were treated to wedding cake and an assorted combination plate of three miniature desserts, including New York style cheesecake, molten chocolate torte, tiramisu, apple cobbler à la mode, and chocolate-covered strawberries. An international coffee bar and after-dinner cordials were also available.

Following the couple’s first dance to “Amazed” by Lonestar, D’Amico Entertainment got the party started. Their emcee for the evening, Chris, provided Jennifer and Kenneth advice and helped them choose the right balance of music for their crowd. “D’Amico Entertainment was beyond our expectations, and we liked the DJ and band combination,” noted Jennifer.

Abacus Wedding Studios captured the wedding day flawlessly in photography and on video. Rennie caught Jennifer and Kenneth’s personalities through a photojournalistic style as well as traditional posed shots. The couple was equally pleased working with Robert, who blended in with their guests. Jennifer and Kenneth commented, “Robert took great footage for the transitional frames in our video and has a creative eye.”

In lieu of traditional wedding favors, donations were made to the Lustgarten Foundation in memory of loved family members. A small card was included at each guest’s table setting informing them of this donation. At the end of the celebration, Jennifer and Kenneth escaped on their honeymoon to Florida and set sail for seven days on the Carnival Legend cruise line.

Jennifer & Kenneth
June 24, 2011
Brooklake Country Club • Florham Park, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony Location: Saint Elizabeth’s Chapel
Celebrant: Father Sean McDonnell
Reception Location: Brooklake Country Club
Photographer & Videographer: Abacus Wedding Studios
Entertainment: D’Amico Entertainment
Florist: Flowers by Candlelight
Limousine Service: My Limousine Service
Cake Designer: Le Promenade
Bridal Salon: The Wedding Shop
Formal Attire: Cozy Formalwear
Invitations: Made by Couple
Favors: Donations to the Lustgarten Foundation
Makeup Artist: My Makeup Artist Victoria
Jewelers: Helzberg Diamonds
Honeymoon Location: Orlando, Florida and Carnival Cruise Line

Your wedding cake will bare it all during your wedding reception! Hand-crafted and classically elegant, Sarah’s Stands wood cake stand from the  Natural Beauty Collection, will provide a beautiful rustic way to display your wedding cake. Available in round and square in natural wood variations, this cake stand (made in the USA) is a versatile design to match all types of decor. For more information and to view more colors, visit http://www.sarahsstands.com.

Tara and Chris met at work on July 7, 2007. They had an instant connection, and although Tara was hesitant, their attraction was inevitable. “Chris had a gorgeous smile that was contagious. He has the best personality and made me laugh constantly,” Tara shared. After the two began dating, they enjoyed spending time together, especially while on several ski vacations. Chris had planned the proposal about three months prior, and as Tara and Chris reached the top of the mountain for a day of skiing, Chris asked to take a picture. As Tara stood there posing for the camera, Chris got down on one knee and proposed. “I was beyond shocked. We have so many great memories, and our proposal location has meaning behind it,” Tara reminisced

When the couple began planning their wedding, Tara and Chris knew they wanted to tie the knot during the fall, as they both love the weather during this time of year. Additionally in choosing October 9, 2011, Columbus Day weekend provided guests the best availability for travel arrangements.

The ceremony was held at the groom’s parish, Our Lady of Sorrows. Seeing each other for the first time as the doors opened to the church was Tara and Chris’ favorite memory of the day. “It was an unbelievable rush of emotions and a level of happiness I hadn’t experienced before,” Chris mentioned. “I was filled with anticipation as I waited to see my future wife.”

Tara walked down the aisle wearing an ivory silk taffeta Essence wedding gown, embellished with lace appliqués and beadwork. A fingertip blusher veil and Manolo Blahnik shoes completed her look flawlessly. Chris sported a Joseph Abboud tuxedo, Tiffany’s cuff links, and a Breitling watch.

Located on private woodlands and set for secluded and exclusive events, along with the facility’s storybook ambiance, renowned cuisine, and impeccable service, the Pleasantdale Château was the perfect locale to host Tara and Chris’ reception. “Every room was different from the next and even more breathtaking,” commented the bride. The architecture, pristine grounds, estate style, and one-wedding-at-a-time service factored into the couple’s decision.

Cocktail hour provided a lavish presentation, including coconut chicken, duck and cranberry salad, lobster cream puff, potato and camembert cheese croquettes, along with various stations and displays. For dinner, guests had a choice of tilapia meuniere or roasted filet of dry-aged Black Angus beef with roasted shallot and béarnaise sauce. Each entrée was served with risotto or whipped potatoes and vegetables. “We couldn’t have asked for better service. The Pleasantdale Château staff were there assisting before we could even ask,” noted Chris. In addition to the five-tiered octagonal hazelnut wedding cake, guests were treated to warm chocolate molten cake, French and Italian pastries, and petit fours.

Throughout the day’s events, Milton Gil Photographers captured the special moments in photography and on video. Tara and Chris liked Milton and Lou’s photojournalistic approach, as well as their creative eye, professionalism, and how wedding stories unfolded while looking at album samples. They were equally pleased working with their videographers, who blended in with their guests.

The décor of the ballroom beautifully set the tone for the reception. High centerpieces included curly willow branches decorated with magenta orchids with suspended glass votives holding tea light candles, while orchids submerged in three cylinder vases at varying heights topped with a floating candle completed the low centerpiece design.

Following Tara and Chris’ first dance to “You and Me” by Dave Matthews Band, guests danced the night away with the help of Barry Herman Entertainment. The emcee and disc jockey for the evening played a variety of songs from many genres.

At the end of the reception, the newlyweds escaped to Hawaii for their honeymoon, where they stayed at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa and Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Tara and Chris look forward to starting a family and buying their first home together.

Tara & Chris
October 9, 2011
Pleasantdale Château • West Orange, NJ

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony Location: Our Lady of Sorrows
Celebrant: Father Richard Pfannenstiel
Reception Location: Pleasantdale Château
Photographer & Videographer: Milton Gil Photographers
Entertainment: Barry Herman Entertainment
Florist: Flower Elegance
Limousine Service: D&G Limousines
Cake Designer: Pleasantdale Château
Bridal Salon & Veil: Ally’s Bridal • Shoes: Manolo Blahnik
Formal Attire: Joseph Abboud
Invitations: Birchcraft Studios
Favors: Photo Booth Pictures & Frames
Hair Salon: Brushez • Makeup Studio: Facez
Jeweler: West Orange Jewelers
Photo Booth: Photo Illusions, LLC
Honeymoon Location:
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa―Kauai and Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea―Maui, Hawaii

Set the theme of your destination wedding with custom invitations that showcase a vintage-style map of where guests will be traveling to. Pass along the appropriate information to your guests with coordinating stationery including itinerary, accommodation details, and response card.

Image via CraftyPagan

Gina and Christopher met when they were children and even dated for two weeks as young teenagers, but it wasn’t until the two reconnected 11 years later that they began to date. While on vacation in Florence, Italy, Christopher decided it would be the perfect opportunity to surprise Gina. As they were standing on their hotel balcony drinking wine, Christopher proposed with a solitaire engagement ring.

With approximately two years until March 25, 2011, Gina and Christopher had plenty of time to plan their wedding and enjoy their engagement. Once all of the details were finalized, the big day finally arrived. Chosen for its reputation and delectable food, the ceremony and reception was held at Fox Hollow. The couple also chose Fox Hollow as they were able to have everything at one location, which made it convenient for their guests.

Gina walked down the aisle wearing an A-line Maggie Sottero gown embellished with Swarovski crystals. She held a bouquet of white flowers mixed with brightly colored blooms. The groom looked sharp in a classic black Calvin Klein tuxedo with a black and white tie and converse sneakers. “He looked timeless,” commented Gina. The groomsmen also sported Calvin Klein tuxedos with gunmetal vests, which coordinated nicely with the bridesmaids, who wore black Bill Levkoff dresses. During the ceremony the couple exchanged vows and participated in a unity wine ceremony.

Once announced as the new Mr. and Mrs., the newlyweds and their guests enjoyed an elaborate cocktail hour including several hot hors d’oeuvres, hot buffet stations, displays of cheese, fruit, and seasonal garden vegetables. For dinner, guests had a choice of Chateaubriand, shrimp scampi, chicken, grilled salmon, duck al’orange, land and sea duet, or a vegetarian dish. Waffles and ice cream were served for dessert along with their red velvet wedding cake. “The staff at Fox Hollow were helpful and on point throughout the night,” noted Christopher.

Bryan McNulty from Lost Artist Studios captured the day’s events flawlessly in photography. Gina mentioned that she loved Bryan’s photojournalistic style and thought their wedding story was told perfectly through their photographer’s candid shots. Gina and Christopher were also pleased with how their video turned out thanks to their videographer from The Pros Entertainment Services.

From the first consultation through the planning process, Joe ZiColello of Dash of Class Entertainment was helpful and made Gina and Christopher comfortable. He gave them ideas and informed the couple on all of their options. For their first dance, the newlyweds held the spotlight to “God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys. They also participated in the traditional parent dances to “The Times of Your Life” by Paul Anka and “If Not For You” by George Harrison. “Our reception was awesome. Since Christopher and I grew up together and were from the same neighborhood, we invited a lot of friends and family who all knew each other. It seemed like everyone was happy to be there as we were,” commented Gina.

At the end of the night, guests took home black and white cookies that went along with their color scheme. Following their big day, Gina and Christopher escaped to Riu Vallarta in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico that they won through Contemporary Bride Magazine’s Honeymoon Sweepstakes.

Gina & Christopher
March 25, 2011
Fox Hollow • Woodbury, NY

In The Spotlight:
Ceremony & Reception Location: Fox Hollow
Officiant: Reverend Nick Montanino
Photographer: Lost Artist Studios • Videographer: The Pro’s
Entertainment: Dash of Class DJ Entertainment
Florist: Flowers by Burton & Son
Cake Designer: Fox Hollow
Bridal Gown: Maggie Sottero • Veil: WeddingVeil.com • Shoes: Nina Shoes
Formal Attire: Men’s Wearhouse
Invitations: Jean M. Wedding Invitations & Stationary
Favors: Angel’s Bakery
Honeymoon Location: Hotel Riu Vallarta- Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

We recently found these adorable personalized tote bags and just had to share with our readers. Not only are tote bags perfect for welcome bags, but can be just what you’re looking to give your bridesmaids as a thank you for being a part of your special day. Fill them with special treats or products you know your best gals will love, as they can use it over and over again after the wedding day!

baggedandloaded

LettersByLindsay

Claire and Michael met through mutual friends during their sophomore year of college. “I immediately recognized that Michael had a very friendly and easygoing way about him,” Claire recalled. The two were dating other people at the time and although they lost touch, they were reconnected again the very last week of college in May of 1999. Claire and Michael began dating and a decade later, Michael presented Claire with a solitaire engagement ring from Jay Roberts Jewelers.

Finally August 27,, 2011 arrived and brought with it a big surprise. Although Hurricane Irene was on her way, Claire remained calm and was excited to begin prepping for her wedding. Claire was on the phone with the coordinator at 3 West Club finalizing last minute seating changes as Jeanine of Jeanine Mangan Makeup Designs flawlessly applied her makeup and Handri Gunawan styled her hair into a traditional chignon. Claire and her bridesmaids then met up with Michael and his groomsmen for pre-ceremony photos, shot by Chae Kihn of Harold Hechler Photographers. Kihn shot a mix of classic portraits, candid and posed shots, and black and white photos that the couple absolutely loved.

The ceremony was held at Cathedral of Saint Patrick in New York City where Claire’s parents had been married. Claire walked down the aisle in an off-white Alencon lace gown designed by Tomasina and a cathedral-length veil. Gold peep-toe Jimmy Choo heels and Swarovski crystal drop earrings completed the bride’s look. She carried a bouquet of white and cream roses. Claire’s bridesmaids wore navy blue silk chiffon gowns and carried bouquets of lavender sterling roses. Michael sported a traditional black tuxedo, as did his best man and groomsmen.

The bridesmaids’ carried lavender sterling roses to complement their navy blue chiffon dresses, which coordinated nicely with the groomsmen attire.

The reception was held at 3 West Club, which is a private club built in 1921 on the site of Andrew Carnegie’s former home. Claire and Michael were pleased with the overall service from the staff. The bride commented, “They were so efficient and exacting that I didn’t need to focus on them at all, which is the way it should be!” During cocktail hour, guests enjoyed a variety of hors d’oeuvres in addition to passed champagne in flutes. Dinner began with a sea scallop risotto with porcini mushrooms, followed by salad and a duo intermezzo of lemon and lime sorbets, garnished with fresh fruit and mint. For their main entrées, guests had a choice of filet mignon in perigourdine sauce or sautéed halibut.

The reception décor was traditional, with intricate centerpieces of amnesia roses, pink and green hydrangea, silver brunia, lavender lisianthus, and delicate variegated ivory. The room was tastefully lit by Stortz Lighting. There were pin spots on each table composition, a color wash on the dance floor, some uplighting throughout the ballroom, and a soft spotlight on the band.

Hank Lane Music played a mixture of standards and swing with contemporary pieces mixed in. The band performed “Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen” for Michael and Claire’s first dance as husband and wife. The bride commented, “Hank Lane’s reputation precedes them. They are one of the most highly recognized entertainment companies in Manhattan.”

The wedding cake was a three-tiered masterpiece of alternating layers of chocolate raspberry and vanilla with a raspberry cream designed by Madame Butterfly Cakes.

Claire and Michael thanked their guests for being a part of their special day by sending them home with a personal favorite, blueberry, lemon, vanilla, and chocolate flavored macaroons from Bouchon Bakery. Following their wedding day, the newlyweds escaped on their honeymoon to Capri and Rome.

Claire & Michael
August 27,2011
3 West Club • New York, NY

In The Spotlight
Ceremony Location: Cathedral of Saint Patrick
Celebrant: Reverend Christopher Pliauplis
Reception Location: 3 West Club
Photographer: Hechler Photographers
Entertainment: Hank Lane Music and Productions
Florist: Chestnuts in the Tuileries
Limousine Service: Silver Star Limousine
Cake Designer: Madame Butterfly Cakes
Bridal Salon: Exquisite Bride & Designer Loft
Veil: Exquisite Bride • Shoes: Jimmy Choo
Formal Attire: Coleman’s Tuxedos
Invitations: Dempsey & Carroll
Favors: Bouchon Bakery
Hair Salon: Marie Bové Salon • Makeup Artist: Jeanine Mangan Makeup Designs
Jeweler: Jay Roberts Jewelers • Lighting: Stortz Lighting
Honeymoon Location: Rome Cavalieri, Rome & Hotel Punta Tragara, Capri― Italy