The Wedding Library

The event at The Breakers Hotel in Palm Beach was over the top, oh my god fabulous, and that is only the beginning.  I was a little in awe of seeing, speaking and just being in the presence of Darcy Miller, Abby Larsen, Randy Fenoli, Badgley Mischka, Sylvia Weinstock, Mara Urshel, etc. etc.

Brides really made out well at this event as Kleinfeld agreed to give away a dress worth $5,000.00 (at the urging of Randy Fenoli) and the swag bag at the end of the day did not disappoint either.  There was also a Honeymoon giveaway at the Breakers...

The VIP lunch was sold out by the time I purchased tickets (procrastination?), and that was a bummer because guest speaker was Abby Larsen of Style Me Pretty.  Call me blogger stalker but I managed to hunt her down and snap a photo with her!  She really is so very sweet... one wonders what might go through her head when people come up to her and tell her how great her blog is ALL DAY LONG?

Hands down the highlight of the day was the Kleinfeld Fashion Show.....A M A Z I N G.  Here are a few seriously terrible shots of that show... I really couldn't help it - the models were gorgeous and I don't mean the brides.  It's hard to ogle and take photos AT THE SAME TIME.

Yes, there were donuts...

and amazing decor...

and I wasn't lying - I really did meet Sylvia Weinstock!

I TOLD you she was there...

See what I mean?

This dress belongs in a Sex and the City movie.

Loveeee the headpiece.

hmmmm....

ok, terrible picture of me..but how cute is Abby Larsen?

and Randy Fenoli!

Seriously, when is the next one?

The Little Black Dress, New Year's Style!

The little black dress is a must for most occasions and New Year's Eve is no exception. On New Years though, we can get away with a little more bling than usual, right? Here are some of my favorite little black dresses for New Years.

This one is by Eliza J, and is a ruffle wrap dress (I love it with the belt!)



Here is one with quite the bling effect. Super fun and will definitely make a statement. It is made by Scala and you can find it here.



I am really loving Betsy Johnson right now so bare with me. I want this dress! It is so cute.



All are good dresses to wear to a wedding this time of year, just be careful not to outshine the bride :)

The Budget Bride - 5 Money Saving Tips!

Just like so many of us these days, brides are on a serious BUDGET! And sticking to the budget is definitely a chore. As I meet with more and more brides there is one theme that is always the same. Brides are on a budget and they just don't wanna sacrifice ANY part of the wedding that they have dreamed of. So, here is a little advice on how to cut costs without cutting out the style.

#1 - Almost half of your budget is going to be in reception expenses. This largely includes food. To cut your costs, the first thing to do is cut the guest list. Sit down with your fiance,your Mom, or planner and go through the list one by one. Aunt Mary stays, but Moms co-worker is out. Also, cut out the "and guest" language on the invites. Sorry singles, your flame of the week is not invited!

#2 - The designer gown. We ALL want the latest Vera Wang, Monique Lhuillier, or Reem Acra gown. This CAN be possible. Try checking out sites like Once Wed, where you can find a used DESIGNER gown (worn once of course!) for a fraction of what it would retail for.I found a once worn Vera Wang for $1,650.00 that had an original retail price of $5,000.00. Seriously people, check it out! The photo below is a Vera Wang dress going for $950.00!



#3 - Centerpieces - The BEST way to cut back on your floral budget for your centerpieces is to use as many candles as possible. Not only is it an elegant way to dress up your table, but it provides the most flattering light for your guests and looks amazing in photos! Pair candles of different sizes with small floral arrangements, and you have a match made in centerpiece heaven. Check out Save on Crafts for great prices on glassware, candles and other decor.



#4 - Your save the dates, invites, programs, place cards, and menus. Can we say DIY? That is the most practical way to do it - yourself! If you have a fancy computer program like photoshop - USE IT! These paper goodies could turn out better than you had hoped. Use your favorite engagement photo and keep it simple, chic and stylish. Make sure to solicit the help of your Maid of Honor and wedding party to help you assemble the goods. Here's a sample of a DIY Save the Date that is oh so cute created by the Budget Savvy Bride.



#5 - Don't slash your photography budget! Instead, interview with A LOT of photographers and find the one that is right for you and has the best packages for the price. A budget bride should always look for an engagement photo session that is included in the package price as well as coverage from the ceremony through the reception. Be careful though, because pre-wedding photos (getting ready shots) can be extra and you'll have to decide whether that is worth it. Finally - purchase the photo CD or better yet, the package that includes it. This may be a little pricey if not included, but worth every penny! You can then order whatever photos you want from any online printer! If your a local Vero Beachian, I suggest Angela Tappen Photography. Not because she is budget at all, but because she offers packages that are nearly "all inclusive" for realistic prices and her work is AMAZING!

Happy Planning!