Aisle Style 2012 Weddings

Brides today want their wedding day to be as unique as they are. And this outside the box thinking is setting new trends for savvy brides in 2012. Designers are artfully combining bright colours with staple neutrals: much like an artist would paint a beautiful work of art.

Warm bamboo, honeysuckle pink, cedar green, deep teal, purple‐hued phlox, coffee liqueur, warm camel nougat and quarry are top shades for the upcoming season.

Wedding dresses have a lot of lace; a trend we forecasted six months ago. There are ruffles, beading and  coloured sashes that are sexy and white is not as popular as soft beige, light blues, pink and even soft‐toned greens being introduced into the finest bridal lines.

Styles for gowns are sleek with brides not seeking out the traditional ball gown. Vintage is still strong and  there’s no chance of finding their dress duplicated. They make a statement and are stunning in their design.

The venue is still a hot location, with couples seeking old buildings that have been re-purposed such as old train stations, raw factory space and combinations of indoor and outdoor spaces. Local farms and vineyards provide a rustic charm and the outdoor photo opportunities provide endless opportunities. Wedding environments will be more laid back; bookings with nature settings are popular locations. Beaches, parks, homes and other outdoor settings are also being utilized.

Birdcage veils have been in style for many seasons now and the Royal Wedding provided the fascinator, an edgy, over the top headpiece. Headbands and feathers are modern options to a traditional veil. No bride will be bare‐headed in 2012 with everything from glittering tiaras to extra large flowers in contrasting tones.

Shoes, once dyed satin white can now be bold red, purple or blue, peeking out from under that dream dress. Add a feather clip for a touch of fun.

Other ideas include button or feather boutonnieres, multi‐mini cakes as centrepieces, catering carts, such as martini bars, crepe stations, sundae bars, pastry tables and lemonade stands are vying for the bride’s attention. Photo booths continue to be a popular feature for guests.

Social media is centre stage with computer stations being set‐up for guests to leave comments. Webcasting to guests who couldn’t attend the day is heartfelt and, as the day unfolds, hash tags for Twitter are in sync with today’s online culture.

Venues should expect to receive requests for longer cocktail hours, rental companies will see an increase for lounge furniture and guests can expect the unexpected. Ceremonies will have a steady increase in personalization, focusing on the couple’s interests, hobbies and passions as part of the wedding day celebrations. Vows are being written and choreographed by couples with assistance from an Officiant.

Themes such as vintage, diamonds/pearls, romance, garden style, retro 50‐70’s and eco‐friendly are huge. Cakes are bold this year and 2 layered cakes are back with tiers of different heights. Cupcakes are still huge, with innovative flavours and colours.

Grooms are more involved in the planning with their brides, and they are contributing their time and ideas into their day; it’s a new culture in the industry‐ one that until recently has been entirely female.

The 2012 wedding season will find couples saying, “I Do” in a world of different ways. Many will continue partying well into the night with an after party, which is becoming a popular trend. This party has no rules or wedding checklists and is entirely up to the couple.

Wedding Guide Preferred Vendors are dream‐makers; the go‐to service providers with big shoulders and creative thinking. They can make a wedding come to life with all of the above ideas. This area is cosmopolitan irrespective of its size and anything and everything is possible for the next season bride!




					


September 8th, 2011 

 




						
		
		 

		




		
			
			Wedding Planning   Choosing Mothers’ Apparel

		




On the occasion of her son or daughter’s wedding, every mother wants to be stylish and beautifully dressed with the perfect hairstyle.


After the bridal and attendants’ gowns are chosen, the bride should discuss her preferences of lengths, colours and styles with both mothers. Some brides prefer mothers’ gowns to be shades of the colour that blend with those of the attendants; others prefer colours that contrast. Avoid ivory or white for this purchase.


John Lyons Photography, Windsor, Ontario- will travel


Many specialty shops feature lovely gowns appropriate for mothers’ and grandmothers’ wedding wear that can be worn again to another party. Depending on the level of formality of the wedding, choices include simple taffeta suits, short cocktail dresses, tea, or waltz length creations of lace, and floor length sequined gowns.


Shops specializing in petite fashions or larger size fashions will generally have the best selection for mothers who are other than average in  height and weight. mothers should shop with a close friend or relative, one whose judgement can be trusted to help choose a complimentary style and colour.


Mothers may also wish to invest in some custom-made accessories, such as special undergarments, (fitted of course, by a knowledgeable professional), or spectacular shoes. Jewellery should be carefully chosen, especially if the dress has pearls, beads or sequins. Last of all, treat you mom and mother-in-law to be special purse to complete her ensemble for this very important day.


Both the bride and groom should ask their mothers to observe these basic rules when choosing their gowns.


Mothers’ gowns should never be longer than the bride’s or attendants’ gowns.  They should be no more formal or lavishly decorated than the bride’s gown.


The bride’s mother chooses her gown first; then lets the groom’s mother know the colour and fabric, so she won’t choose the same shade or a competing shade.


The bride’s mother should select her gown early enough to allow the groom’s mother sufficient time to find her wedding day attire.



					


August 15th, 2011 

 




						
		
		 

		




		
			
			The Perfect Wedding Dress

		




Your Look


“If there is no woman, there is no dress”- Coco Chanel


The childhood fantasy of that incredible gown is now a reality. It is time to choose the most important dress you will ever wear, and it is your look that will set the tone for your wedding: elegantly formal, culturally traditional, or alluringly whimsical. Bridal salons offer an array of colours and styles and will do alterations for that perfect dress with the not-so-perfect waistline. 


The search should begin immediately for while the choices may seem endless, time is not.


And, if it seems that the elusive dress of your dreams is but a figment of your imagination, then bring it to life. Do not hesitate to look into custom gown designs, after all, it is your day and you should feel perfect in what you are wearing.


Photo: Chalet Studio Photography


The wedding gown tells something about the bride’s beliefs and feelings, her personality, and her general appearance. 


Some brides are likely to try new styles. Others may be unconcerned about their gown. Some brides wear simple gowns becaue of their strong customs and beliefs.


Through the years, the wedding gown has been one of the most important parts of the wedding,  associated with the hope and the celebration of love. Your gown is going to be the focal point of the ceremony, and you will remember it for the rest of your life.


Consider comfort and that all eyes will be on you. This may not be the best occasion to wear a gown in which you do not feel comfortable. Selecting a wedding gown is one of life’s precious moments. To get the right gown, however, takes some thinking. Your wedding gown gives you a chance to dress completely different from the way you do everyday; so feel free to select something unique. Experiment with many styles to see what suits you silhouette best.


If your wedding is a destination- there are now many short styles available for you to choose from.  The rise of destination weddings has set the tone for a new look for a very treasured day. And, you’ll find gowns of all colours and styles with gorgeous detail- just for you!



					


August 16th, 2010 

 




						
		
		 

		




		
			
			The Right Way & The Wrong Way: Bridal Gowns and Grace

		




I’m certain that this question has been of major concern for a lot of brides-to-be! Thanks to Sassy Brides Chicago for answering the question, once and for all. http://sassychicagobrides.blogspot.com/2010/05/20-days-to-go.html








Wrong Way


Sitting on the toilet


Right Way


Facing the toilet back


























					


May 5th, 2010 

 




						
		
		 

		




		
			
			 Dressing the Groom in Style

		




Weeks and months are spent by the bride agonizing over the perfect wedding gown. What style to pick? Which gown will accentuate the bride’s best features? How much lace and tulle will make the gown a wow without going overboard? What type of neckline, detail and fabrics go into the perfect gown? Should it be long or short, white, ivory or coloured?


And, then there’s the poor groom. Does anyone pay attention to his wedding attire? He is often left to fend for himself, without having the slightest idea what he is looking for. Certainly he has heard of wing-collars, morning suits and cummerbunds. But does he even know what they are? Or when they are worn? Or what they look like?


Probably not and that’s where his loving bride comes in to help him select the fashions that are not only traditional and proper, but what looks best on him. And don’t forget the groomsmen. Though they too may be an afterthought, the syles they wear will add a sense of elegance to your wedding day.


Tuxedos are instantly classic and although the wearing of them has shown a decline through the last few years, there’s nothing that speaks James Bond for the special day. The trend today is back to the 50′s, vintage glam and retro-style, which themed is  a black and white affair; complete with martini bars and the Clark Gable look of the dashing gentleman. Sign onto this look and, the wedding party will be on trend.


Planning a wedding and including all the bride’ finery, glamour and bling works best when the whole wedding party is in the same formal feel. There are variations in tuxedo styles; one that will certainly work for the man-of -the-hour.


Remember that your picture-taking and memory-making will pay off dividends when everyone is suited up for the occasion in style. And, dad and future father-in-law are celebrating the milestone too. Don’t short-change them by by-passing on the tuxedo. It is a special occasion for two very special people- the bride and the groom and the elegance and style that are added to the day are priceless when they look back 20 years from now with their kids as they view the wedding album.


Until later,


Sheryl Davies


Publisher



					


May 5th, 2010