Friday, September 30, 2011

Ask the Expert!: Bridal FAQs


Check out these answers to frequently asked wedding dress and alteration questions answered by our very own expert... Laura!

1. When should I get my dress altered?

About two months prior to your wedding date is best. This period of time is perfect for 2-3 fittings, and at this point weight fluctuation is minimal so the bride avoids a re-alteration.

2. Should I leave my dress in the dress bag or let it breathe?

It is best to leave the dress in its bag in a dark room until a few days before the wedding. After your final fitting, when the dress has been pressed, it should be hung up outside of the bag so it doesn't wrinkle and crease.

3. Should I order a size bigger than my normal dress size?

No. Every size chart runs differently. It is best to purchase based on your measurements. If there are inconsistencies, you should generally choose the dress that fits your largest measurement. However, this depends somewhat on the style of gown. An a-line dress for instance, is more forgiving in the hips. Therefore if your hip measurement doesn't exactly correspond, the dress will likely still fit if the other measurements are true to size.

Friday, September 16, 2011

An Outdoor Wedding Survival Guide

"[The] original hippie children...

did things the flower children were doing later- outdoor weddings."

-Vivian Mathers





The outdoor weddings of today have come along way from the hippie nuptials of the 70's that bring to mind the flowing peasant dresses and daisy-chain crowns of yesteryear. But whether your wedding is a simple backyard affair, or an elaborate garden gala, here are some tips to consider when planning your own outdoor event!


1. RESEARCH- A seemingly obvious point to consider is the date and time of your event. The perfect outdoor wedding is dependent on the weather. And while the luxury of perfect weather cannot be planned, it is a good idea to consult a farmer's almanac or a similar record of average temperatures and rainfall while you are planning. Often, these resources are more reliable than your own memory of the season, and can also bring a little peace of mind. Time of day is also a consideration, especially if your venue has little shade. Be sure to visit your location at the time you plan to hold your ceremony to observe the direction and brightness of the sun.


2. BACKUP PLAN- When all your research proves to be in vain, you will need a backup plan. Whether you have a tent rental on hold in preparation for rain, or budget to purchase some last minute outdoor heaters in case of sudden cold, a backup plan will allow you (and those close to you) to relax... if even just a little. :)


3. CONSIDER YOUR GUESTS- It's your day, but comfortable guests are central to a memorable and enjoyable wedding celebration. A great way to make sure your guests comfortable at your outdoor celebration is with your wedding favors. Favors such as personalized bottled water, or paper fans are perfect for a warm-weather wedding, while providing inexpensive shawls or throws for cooler weather is also thoughtful. Another consideration for warmer weather is making sure there are readily-available drinks, and opportunities for your guests to sit before, during, and after the ceremony.


4. BREATHE EASY- While all these preparation can certainly help to make an outdoor wedding go more smoothly, there are some things that cannot be planned... even by the most determined bride-to-be. The magic of the perfect outdoor wedding comes with certain unavoidable risks. Plan to the best of your ability, and then breathe. It will make the wedding planning process, and ultimately the wedding itself far more enjoyable.


Image: theknot.com