Trend Alert: Flower Girl Fashionista's!

Like most things, the days of the white, puff-sleeved, big-bowed dress for your flower girl is out, and the oh-so-cute, stylized, accessory-covered ensemble is IN! If you thought that you, the BRIDE, were the only one that was to be dressed to a "T" on the BIG day, you are mistaken :) 

Flower girl fashion seems to be straight off the runway (well that is if a "little girl's" runway were to exist), and these little one are wearing it so darn well! Putting more thought, time, and detail into what your little one's are wearing can be a big pay off on your BIG day. Although small in stature, the little girls are the last thing that comes down the aisle before you during the ceremony, and even though your entire wedding party will be looking quite dapper, a well dressed little one can add a whole lot more "eww's and ahh's." Naturally, as any little girl is, they are already too cute just by themselves, but throw on a fancy dress, a stunning halo hairpiece, a punch of color, and maybe even a tu-tu...you've got yourself a memorable wedding detail trotting down the aisle.

Here is an inspiration board showing how brides made their little flower girls a statement piece on their BIG day. The key is: don't hold back, you are at more liberty to rock the fashion trends and fun ideas on little one's - be FUN, CREATIVE, and CUTE!

Trend Alert: Statement Necklace

The blog is back in action - please excuse my mini hiatus, I took a little vacation time..which every girl needs right?! So I am starting things up with the latest trend going around...Statement Necklaces! Traditionally a bride wears one of three things...a pearl necklace, a diamond pendant, or no necklace at all, but as usual, brides are giving those necklaces a modern mix-up. Simple pearls have turned into bold beads and a single diamond has multiplied into a fully bedazzled accessory. While the traditional ways certainly present an understated elegance, a bold necklace can really complement your attire on the BIG day. 

There are a couple rules of thumb when going with a statement necklace:

1. If you have a statement necklace, go with more simplistic earrings. Bold earrings accompanied by a big necklace is often overwhelming -- your guests want to see YOU!

2. Don't be afraid to use color! If your wedding has a color theme throughout, a statement necklace can be the perfect place to add a splash of that hue on you!

3. Mix-and-Match! Some of the best statement necklaces are those that are actually multiple necklace worn together (J.Crew stylists are masters at this!). Experiment with wearing two necklaces of complementing texture and style -- you could come up with a perfect combo!

4. Make sure the necklace is not HEAVY. Remember that you may be wearing this necklace for up to 12 hrs..and although it is supposed to be a "statement" it is not supposed to be a "drag!"

If you are loving this new trend and want to know how to get it, head on over to some great stylized websites. Check out what their models are wearing - more often than not, company style their models with at least two necklaces! For example, I found this necklace I absolutely loved on a website, and called the company to only find out that it was THREE necklaces they sold all worn together! J. Crew, Ann Taylor, Stella & Dot, and PiperLime are all great places to hunt down a statement necklace and Nordstrom is your best bet when it comes to department stores. 

Now That's Cool: V

This week the web was full of fabulous styling! When it comes to having a highly stylized wedding, it is all about the intricate details. Whether it be the simple pink balloon you hold for an artsy photograph or to oh-so-sweet "I Do" tags you tie to the wedding favors -- these are the small things that can make a BIG difference. Check out the adorable flower girl too! Someone sign her up for Vogue or something! I am also loving the "happy tears hankies" for guests -- what a sweet spin! Further down you will find a super cool cupcake tree that is literally that...a TREE!? I also picked up a photo of something I have never seen at a wedding before -- wristlet corsages for the bridesmaids -- what a convenient and comfortable idea for your girls! Last, and certainly not least, my favorite -- the napkin shaped in a bow tie! If you are having a country-club styled wedding, this detail could be the ticket! Enjoy!

 

jelphoto.co.nz

paigeandblakegreen.com/ 

KT Merry Photography

risostudio.com

calliev.com 

laurynbyrdy.com

JasonBurnsPhotography.com

annemariephotography.com 

stephaniehaller.com

Corbin Gurkin Photography     

 

Now That's Cool: III

Hello all! If you have been a daily reader of the mini-series, Engagement Photos: 101, be sure to check back next week for the last two posts! Next Monday and Tuesday will feature the "WHERE" and "HOW" concerning engagement pictures!

While cruising across the web this week, I seemed to be constantly clicking the "download" button to save a photo that I thought was just too darn COOL! This week's featured photos seem to really highlight the INGENIOUS people out there - I mean seriously, who THINKS of this stuff! For example, how would you like to have multiple crystal chandeliers hanging in your outdoor ceremony!? Or how about your own custom beer labels that look so cute that you have your own brewery. One of my favorite finds below is the couple again an urban mosaic wall -- how wonderful to bring tradition to the streets. There is also a cake featured below that I swear is made from real lace (but don't be fooled, it really is icing!). Make sure you take a close look at the back of the wedding dress below -- amazingly detailed! And last, but not least...the uber sweet quote about love on a chalk board...I think I am going have to put this somewhere in my house. Anyways, have fun checking out the "Now That's Cool: inspiration board, and remember to add some amazing element to your own BIG day!

Photos by:

amywellenkamp.com

William Kim Photography

jasminestarphotography.com

Grazier Photography

stacyreeves.com

James Christianson Photographer

La Dolce Vita Studio

Orchard Cove Photography

♥ Kay English Photography ♥

Ann Taylor Wedding's Fall Collection Debuts!

I was so excited when I checked my e-mail today to see that Ann Taylor just debuted their brand-spankin'-new wedding collection for FALL! I know this 100 degree weather makes it hard to fathom the hearty hues of fall, but their collection is definitely worth a look-see! If anything, the thoughts of a cool breeze may help you cool down these days.

My favorite things about the Ann Taylor Fall collection?..ahh where to begin. For starters, the line is really versatile. Although does not offer the assortment that competitors like J. Crew offers, each dress seems to have it's own specific style that is applicable to a number of different weddings. Furthermore, this line offers some unique colors that are seemingly hard to find, but absolutely perfect for a Fall event. Overall, the line offers a combination of chic-romantic stylizing that would make any bride look like she is up on her fashion sense. Most importantly, every dress is RE-WEARABLE! In my opinion, there is not single factor of utmost importance..especially when asking your bridesmaids to invest in a dress. Any of the bridesmaid's dress would be perfect for a night out on the town or a swanky cocktail party. 

Overall, Ann Taylor is offering a line the provides a classy look with a modern stylized flare. Whether you are dressing yourself or choosing the wedding party attire, Ann Taylor is certainly an approved way to go! Be sure to check out there AMAZING accessory line as well -- so major statement bling over there!

www.anntaylor.com 

Treasure Finds: Some Seriously FABULOUS Shoes!

Alright ladies, if you are a daily reader of this blog, you already know what kind of a "shoe freak" I am! Nothing makes you feel more feminine than slipping on a sexy pair of stilettos or a beach-chic pair of wedges! I am always on the look out for a hot pair across the web and absolutely LOVE seeing what people are wearing under their dresses these days. For a quick shot at some of the fabulous heels out there, check out a past post: What's Under That Dress?

My dear friend, and mastermind behind Love, GiGi jewelry line, Mary Morris is my partner in crime when it comes to all thing SHOES! It is not odd to find us texting or e-mailing pictures of shoes we see while out shopping! Furthermore, we are both huge Etsy fans, so it should not be a surprise that we were somehow able to put the two together. Mary sent me over a link to an Etsy Shop called Bride and You - A CUSTOM SHOE SHOP! Are you freaking serious?! Custom, and I should add "couture," shoes for your BIG day - sign me up (too bad my chance has already come in gone)! Sojin Kim's, owner of Bride and You, talent in the art form of shoes is truly stunning, and she offers a range of styles, colors, textures, & embellishments. I encourage all you Bride-To-Be's to head on over the Bride and You to start working with Sojin Kim on your fabulous BIG day shoe creation! Here are some clips from her store front!

Treasure Find: Couture Style Never Seen Before

Every girl knows that find the PERFECT dress easily qualifies as one of the top memories along your wedding journey. Nothing makes you that much more anxious to walk down the aisle then slipping on a dress that makes you feel that you are glowing with radiance. Today, there are a million choices for your dress-to-be, from all over the world, and from a plethora of designers - nevertheless, finding your perfect dress can be an adventure (or a maze for that matter) in and of itself. And, just like high school PROM, no girl wants to wear a dress like anyone else's - we want it to look like it was made just for us; but, only a few major bridal shops most metro areas and so many designers "copy-catting" each other' work, how are you guaranteed to find a dress that is purely unique? Answer: Etsy. Although Etsy started off being a virtual store front for many "do-it-yourselfers," the site is now filled with an abundance of true artists offering their masterpieces to the public. Fashion designers, of every sort, are popping up daily on Etsy to present their couture lines worthy of New York Fashion Week. If you are looking for a unique wedding dress style (not so main stream), a custom dress to your specific order, or just a couture dress that has never been worn before...head on over to Etsy and SHOP AWAY!!! You will be true eye-candy as you walk down the aisle looking as though you are straight out of a designers studio! Below is a SMALL sampling of some awesome wedding dress designers I spotted on Etsy - click their link to check out their virtual shop or go on over to Etsy to explore it yourself.

"Some Kind of Wonderful" by clairelafaye

"Maggs" by AngelsBridalBoutique

"Silk Fusion Mermaid Dress" by PureMagnoliaCouture

"Vintage Lace" by yourfairytalewedding

"The Wide Open Spaces" by ArmoursansAnguish
photo by Scott Woodman

"Lace Dress" by  dressmaker2011

Vendor Spotlight: J. Crew

When it comes to picking out the attire for your bridesmaid, the choices can become overwhelming. Lucky for you, J. Crew has made a big bang entrance into the wedding fashion industry - and their fashionable offerings are making things MUCH easier on the bride-to-be! 

J. Crew has been a popular stop for any shopper as it has emerged over the past 15 years. With it's high quality, chic-casual style, it is natural easily become a "Crew" fan. J. Crew stylists saw the opportunity to enter the wedding market and took it by storm; over the past three years, the company has been continually expanding it's "wedding day attire" empire and has literally created a one-stop-shop for future brides. Wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, men's ware, and accessories are all available to you on the J. Crew website, and most recently, J. Crew has opened up a wedding shop in select cities (Lenox Mall is the chosen Atlanta location).

So why do we truly love the new J. Crew wedding empire?:

(1) The dresses are all reusable! 

Finding a dress that your wedding party can wear again is so important, and your girls be more willing to spend money on something that won't sit in their closet indefinitely. With the comfy-chic style, these dresses are perfect for cocktail parties, date nights, and even another wedding!

(2) The vary in style

J. Crew offers most of their dresses in different styles, a large selection of colors, and an assortment of fabric - meaning: You can Mix-and Match! Lucky In Love Events featured a whole post of how to Mix-and-Match your bridesmaid's attire, click here if you missed it! Your girl's will love choosing which style fits them best!

(3) They are fun and comfortable

J. Crew stylists really took the time to make their dresses unique. From dress pockets, to figure-pleasing pleats, these dresses have a all great elements of any elegant party dress.

I could go one about why I am a fan, but I will leave the rest up to you to explore! Check out J.Crew's extensive wedding website and find the best look for your BIG day. Below are a couple of shots of real weddings that have chose J. Crew for their attire:

Fashion Photography By:

Shira Weinberger

Orchard Cove Photography

Vannessa Joy

Stephanie Cristalli

Kate Braman

The Nichols

Nicole Chatham

Picture This!: Chanel Inspired

Have you always dreamed up taking a girl trip to Paris to visit the fashion district?..then today's "Picture This!" is definitely for you! One word ladies: Chanel. 

I am sure the word "Chanel" is in any female's vocabulary (or if you are like me, Chanel is purely wishful thinking vocab). The world of Chanel is constantly thrown at us throughout the fashion scene, all over celebrity gossip magazines, and in every other commercial during our TV time...we are seriously surrounded by this 'female targeted' company (and I am not complaining!). Chanel's products and marketing intelligently combines soft femininity with an underlying fierceness - what a great combo for your BIG DAY! Strong, yet elegant women such as Nicole Kidman, Keira Knightley, and Blake Lively grace Chanel endorsements and perfectly represent what the brand is all about.

Ladies, do it Chanel style - Be strong, be feminine, and be BEAUTIFUL for your wedding day! The collaboration of muted pinks, champagnes, and whites with an added accent to jet black makes a "Chanel" Inspiration Board total eye-candy! So ladies, sit back, relax, and enjoy all things girly! Much love!

Plain-out Beautiful Photos By:

Kristin Vining

Jen Rodriguez

Elizabeth Messina

James Christianson

Jose Villa

Lisa Lefkowitz

Shannon Montez

La Vie
Carla Ten Eyck

Stephanie Cristalli

John and Joseph

Amelia Lyon
Adam Nyholt

Meg Perotti

Trend Alert: Make Your Groom Groovy!

So far, most of Lucky In Love Event's posts have been directed towards the LADIES (rightfully so ha!)...nevertheless, it is time to shine some light on our other half - the BOYS! If you a dedicated reader of this blog, you know that the usual underlying theme of the posts is "updating tradition through fresh ideas, creative spins, and mixing things up!" This motto is not one sided and is most certainly applicable to our beloved grooms! 


Men's attire for his BIG DAY has evolved, or should I say un-evolved, over the past 5 years - and let me just say "un-evolved" is definitely not a bad thing! Men's attire has, like most things wedding, lent itself to creativity and personal taste. The black tux-and-bowtie deal is not the most common route these days...the modern groom is trading in his formal wear for a simply suite and tie, and the more daring of those fellows are even going as far to flaunt CONVERSE shoes on his magical day!


Men's wedding attire may have become more casual, way more fun, and especially personal (which is the most important part of anything on your BIG day!). Whether it is a funky tie, old-school suspenders, a fancy Fedora hat, a sport coat & khakis, crazy socks, or his favorite sneakers, let your groom have the opportunity to flaunt his style! It is important that he influence the day as much as the bride herself..it is about the marriage of TWO people after all. His style creativity will bring a fresh element to the whole day...and evoke true happiness inside and out! Check out some styles that have already been owned by men on their wedding -- these guys are awesome! Enjoy!

All this handsome photography from:

 

 

 

 

 

Becky Young

Ahlin Photography

Diane Marie

Caroline Tran

Belathea Photgraphy

Jessica Johnston

Rochelle Mort

Leila Brewster

Cliff Brunk

Picture This! - Southern Elegance!

David Orndorf

I have really enjoyed creating today's post -- actually I really enjoy doing all the "Picture This!" series; nevertheless, I love today's muse! I have always had a thing for dogs and horses..don't ask me why, I do not know, it is just an innate "thing" in me :)  [If you missed Lucky In Love's latest post on how to incorporate you beloved dog into your BIG DAY, click here!] Horses have such a longstanding in human history - and to think they used to be our only means of transportation blows any modern mind! So it may be southern girl in me or the thorough history we have with these specific mammals -- either way, the combination of their strong stature and earthy essence make horses an easy inspiration!

I found this wonderful photo on Etsy, who would have guessed? The outstanding photography is captured by David Orndorf and presents a wonderful color palate for any wedding! If you are looking to fill your BIG DAY with soft, earthy compositions - with an underlying southern charm...this inspiration board may be a perfect start for you! Enjoy!

Wonderful Photos by:

Three Nails

5ive15ifthteen

Watson Studios

Jenna Cole

Joy De Vivre

Hayley Erickson

Caroline Ghete

Casper Hamlet

He and She Photography

Millie Holloman

Jason and Anna

Doll Face Creations

Picture This: Colorful Quote!

If you missed reading up on one of last week's posts, "Picture This," you did not see the start of a new weekly series! In a nutshell, I will present a single source of inspiration (i.e. a photo, an object, a quote, etc.) and create an entire wedding inspiration board from the the muse! If you are a creative mind - I encourage you to try the "Picture This!" activity yourself..it is fun to imagine a million ways to create a single wedding!




By Handz from Etsy

 

This weeks "Picture This!" inspiration comes from a printed quote I found on, none other than, Etsy! The picture really struck me for several reasons: (1.) This quote is from a song I think we all universally know! It may have even been the first song we learned sing when we were little - so cheery and simple!, and (2.) I loved the color combination the artist used to compose the print. Often, brides are afraid to use bold colors throughout their wedding and stick to the notion of being "soft and sweet;" however, being BOLD is not BAD - if anything, bright colors bring warmth and cheerfulness to any ambiance! A wedding is a celebration after all! Check out how the basic primary colors can be a perfect setting for your wedding day celebration - still keeping it classy and elegant all the way through! Look below to find a wedding fully inspired from the colorful quote through and through! Enjoy!



Stellar Photos From: Jamie Grenough, Aaron Delesie, Twin Lens, Picotte Photo, Q Weddings, Beaux Arts, Captured by Jen, Muse Photography, Matthew May, and Laurel McConnel



 



What's Under That Dress?

No, the title of this post is NOT referring to the lingerie you received at your bachelorette party...I am talking about something WAY better in my opinion. You've already got the diamond in hand, so what is girl's next best friend? - Shoes! Like most females, I have a thing for shoes... my theory is that you just simply cannot have too many pairs, styles, colors, etc. (my husband would definitely disagree with that statement!). And if you ever have a more opportune time to splurge on your shoe fantasies, it is on your wedding day!!!

Now ladies, as I keep mentioning, the modern bride is at more liberty to do what she wants compared to the past...so please, do not hesitate to get out of the plain-white-satin-close toed-ultra traditional-conservative heel FUNK! Be fun, be bold, and buy those sexy heels you have always wanted. I'm thinking Carrie Bradshaw would give you similar advice :) If you are worried about being to LOUD with your shoes, no worries...no one will know what you got under that dress during the ceremony..it is not till the reception. Whether it is when your dress is swooshing during a group dance or when you hike up that dress for the garter toss, guests will love seeing glimpses of your "too cool" shoes!

Bottomline: Your wedding day is all about having a magical and fun time from head to TOE! Slip your feet into those fabulous shoes and WORK IT! Great shoe shopping resources include Nordstrom, DSW, Off-Broadway, Bloomingdales, Saks, PiperLime, and Zappos. Check out some eye-candy shoes from around the weddingsphere below.

Stellar Photo Credits: Nate Henderson, Paco + Betty, Desi Baytan, Docuvitae, Captured by Kate, Christain Oth, Michael Turner, Kate McPherson, and Sedona Bride Photography

Fresh Idea Friday: Bridesmaid Mix Up!

I don't know about you, but boy am glad that it is FRIDAY! It has just been one of those l-o-n-g weeks...and to help get out of this d-r-a-g, I am excited to post a Fresh Idea and mix things up a little. 

Alright girls...I hate to say it, but sometimes we know how to work up the drama! Ha! And not to give us girls a bad rap (because I do think we all fabulous and it is our wedding after all!), but typically two of the biggest drama makers on a wedding day are either the Bride-zilla or an angry gang of bridesmaids. I'll address the infamous "bride-zilla" at a later date, but today's post is all about how to you can add a fresh spin to your wedding and alleviate some bridesmaid drama along the way - the idea: Bridesmaid Fashion Mix-and-Match.

We all know that we girls come in all shapes and sizes. Some tall, some short - some tan, some pale - some blonde, some brunette..yeah you get what I am saying. Being so, choosing one dress for your bridesmaids tends to be a difficult task! To avoid eye rolling, diva attitudes, and put-out girlfriends, allow your bridesmaids to CHOOSE what they want to wear. Now I am not telling you give them 100% free reign over there outfit (who knows what would be standing alongside you at the altar!), but I am saying, GIVE THEM OPTIONS! Your can do this three ways:

1. Same Dress, Different Style
Choose a dress that comes in several different styles such as halter, strapless, off-the-shoulder, or sleeveless, and let each girl choose which style fits her best. This option enables each girl to pick what they are most comfortable in, but also allows you to choose the exact color everyone is wearing. I would go with this option if you want to mix it up a little but still desire a traditional look at the altar.

2. Same Color Group and Length
Give your girls a color and length, such as "yellow" and "cocktail length" - then let each girl find a dress that meets your standards. The goal here is to allow each girl find the perfect dress for themselves, but still look like they coordinate with your wedding theme. This option is certainly a more modern trend, but it definitely is a great one - not only is each girl going to look her best, but the slightly different colors/styles really add a cool element to your wedding line up!

3. Different Colors
If there are several color combinations integrated through out your wedding, give each girl a different color dress. For example, if your color scheme consists of pastel purples, greens, and fuchsia - have each girl wear one of the colors. This option really sets the mood of your BIG DAY!

I am a serious fan of all three options, and when pulled off right, not only will you have a fresh spin for your wedding...but you will have a much more pleasant (and comfortable) gang of bridesmaids by your side. Tip: these options work best with 3-6 bridesmaids. It definitely can be done with larger parties...just make sure everyone has a "binding" element in their fashion! Some of my favorite bridesmaid fashions are from Ann Taylor and J.Crew - both places have mix-and-match options.

Check out some examples of Bridesmaid Fashion Mix-and-Match below! Remember, have fun with your style, and don't be afraid to steer from the "norm." Have a fabulous weekend, enjoy!

Photo Credits: JOS Photographers, Brooke Keegan, Abby Ross, Shanni Weilerst, Perez Photography, Mike Larson Inc., Christain Oth Studio, and Jessica Johnston.