This kit is like a mini spa session with ‘purity made simple’ one-step facial cleanser, ‘hope in a jar’ moisturizer, ‘amazing grace’ firming body emulsion and a sample of ‘the microdelivery peel’ for radiant skin. Plus, it includes ‘amazing grace’ perfumed shampoo, bath and shower gel—one of our all-time favorite scents and definitely wedding-worthy.

For more makeup and skincare ideas, check out our Beauty 24/7 blog!

philosophy ‘here comes the bride’ kit

With so much experience in the event industry, David was on our “must interview” list, and now we can pass along his ideas and advice to you!

The Wedding Suite: David, we’re excited get your expert advice on two major wedding topics: planning and fashion! You have designed amazing events for celebrities, charities, and of course, brides. And you’re in the 5th season of your hit show My Fair Wedding With David Tutera. Congrats! First, tell us how you got started in the industry.

David Tutera: I got started at the age of 19, when someone asked me to do a Bar Mitzvah for them. It was because I had a small singing telegram company and I decorated my store window differently every month. This woman came in and asked me to decorate for her son’s Bar Mitzvah ceremony in the same way I had decorated my window, so that was my introduction into the world of events. I had no knowledge, not even a clue that people spent a lot of money decorating for parties. This led to planning parties, which led to my career…and here I am, 26 years later, answering this question!

What is your favorite part of the event planning process?

David: I love the event planning process because I get a chance to take people’s direction, ideas and imagination and bring it to life. My job is bringing ideas to fruition and really turning a fantasy into a reality.

If you could offer our brides one piece of planning advice, what would it be?

David: The most important advice I have is to take a deep breath, step back, don’t overthink your decisions and really have a plan. I think nowadays, brides really don’t have plans. They’re so overwhelmed with information that they can end up making the wrong decisions.

If you take a step back and acknowledge the fact that you have a budget and make decisions based within those perimeters, you won’t be so stressed or feel disappointed. Do your homework, gather all of the information and plan.

David Tutera: The Big White Book of Weddings

Ok, now we have to get the scoop on the shoes! When you designed this line, were you thinking of a specific type of bride?

David: My first collection was specifically made to make my girls feel like they’re not just wearing bridal shoes down the aisle. All of the shoes can be worn long down the line. I think that’s what’s important; we get so caught up in the world of bridal fashion that it has such a short shelf life, and the cost spent on something can’t live beyond that one day. But now, brides can wear these shoes far beyond the wedding day.

I love when I see a bride kick her foot out when she’s sitting down or coming out of a car or walking down the aisle and you see a pop of color or a pattern; my shoes provide that. They’re fashion-forward as opposed to just bridal fashion.

David Tutera ‘Joy’ Sandal (also in black, lavender, and white)

Good line! We agree that they’re fashion-forward. Now, tell us about the special “something blue” detail on the shoes.

David: There is a genuine sapphire Swarovski crystal on the bottom of the sole of every shoe, and that is my “something blue” for each of my brides. So when you have to come up with your “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue”, I’ve already checked one thing off your list for you!

David Tutera ‘Sweetie’ Pump

What trends are you seeing in bridal footwear for this year?

David: I’m setting the trend and I’m seeing patterns, colors, florals, metallics, wedges, platforms, and higher heel heights. I think these trends are coming from the fact that these are fashion-forward, designer shoes and not just bridal footwear.

David Tutera ‘Cascade’ Pump

Do you have any advice on wedding attire overall?

David: The two most important things to keep in mind when it comes to wedding-day attire are comfort and understanding the right silhouette for your body type.

Another piece of advice regarding shoes: you can’t put your shoes on for the first time an hour before you walk down the aisle. You need to buy the shoes ahead of time, wear them around the house, break them in, so you know that you can walk in them for your wedding.

David Tutera ‘Vintage’ Pump

Good call, David!

Shop more wedding shoes for the bride and wedding party, and tell us about your favorites!

Here we’ve put together our choices for accessories to complete the look: a silver shoe, a chunky mixed bracelet and a faux-flower hair clip.

Amsale ‘Amore’ Print Silk Chiffon Dress | Nina ‘Elle’ Flower Hair Clip | Nina ‘Peony’ Cluster Bracelet | Charles by Charles David ‘Radial’ Sandal

The Wedding Suite: When did you decide to start designing wedding gowns? What kicked it all off?

Nicole: It was a natural progression. Friends of mine began asking me to design custom wedding dresses, usually loosely based off styles already on the line, in white versions. I realized the demand was there, and the rest is history… bridal is a big part of our business today!

Now you’re designing for the modern bride. We’re seeing metallic fabrics in a few of your designs, as well as the peplum trend. Any other trends you’re excited about for 2013?

Nicole: Many of my new gowns feature back detailing—lace continues to be a huge trend, but also scoop-backs, delicate beading and button accents as well as unique trims. Brides want to look gorgeous from all angles, especially from behind, when facing the altar!

Nicole Miller ‘Elizabeth’ Gown

How do you start designing a new gown or collection? What’s your first step?

Nicole: Now more than ever, bridal trends are mirroring ready-to-wear runway trends. Since designing my Artelier and Collection lines, I often adapt the trends and feelings of those collections and put a bit more of a bridal spin on them. I always take feedback from our brides and vendors into consideration while designing, too.

Are there any specific places where you seek inspiration for bridal design?

Nicole: I find inspiration in the most unexpected places! I love looking at vintage photographs and watching old movies, and I also sometimes find myself inspired by new technologies.

Pick your favorite dresses for these types of weddings: laid-back beach nuptials, modern hotel affair and classic garden party.

Nicole: Our ‘Aneka’ lace gown is perfect for a classic garden party, and has that beautiful back detail. The ‘Merril’ peplum silk faille gown is understated and chic for a modern city wedding. The ‘Sharon’ techno metal gown is the ultimate destination gown—the fabric does not wrinkle, is lightweight with a hint of beading and is extraordinarily comfortable.

Nicole Miller Peplum Silk Faille Gown

Nicole Miller Strapless Techno Metal Gown

Nicole Miller ‘Aneka’ Gown

Any advice for brides-to-be shopping for their gowns?

Nicole: The most important thing is to feel comfortable. Then, of course, you have to feel gorgeous. Then you will glow with confidence!

Well said, Nicole!

Shop Nicole Miller wedding dresses online or in our 18 in-store Wedding Suites.

The good news is that more and more designers are getting creative when it comes to dressing a full bridal party. This is one reason (just one of many!) why we love Jenny Yoo and her convertible dresses.

At first glance, this seems to be a gorgeous pleated strapless chiffon dress, but look closer. This dress is designed with long panels that can be artfully wrapped and tied over the bodice to create a variety of elegant looks. How many looks are we talking about? Here’s a snapshot of 18 (yes, EIGHTEEN) different ways to wear this dress:

Now, you may be saying to yourself, “Well, that’s great, but I’m not a designer, and don’t know how to tie all those different knots and drapes.” Thankfully, Ms. Yoo herself has created this video for our site to show you how it’s done (and your Wedding Stylist can also help!).

This convertible wonder comes in both a long version (‘Aidan’) AND a short version (‘Keira’). We’re partial to the longer version right now, but we would love to see a bridal party mix and match them. Try it!

So, if bridesmaid #4 complains that a dress just doesn’t work for her body type, show her one of these styles and get creative! Jenny Yoo dresses can also be special ordered in our suites in sizes over 16. Our free Wedding Stylists are happy to help with making sure all your girls get the right style!

Images provided by Jenny Yoo

]]> http://blogs.nordstrom.com/weddings/jenny-yoo-convertible-bridesmaid-dress/feed/ 0 http://blogs.nordstrom.com/weddings/spice-it-up-with-the-newlywed-cookbook/ http://blogs.nordstrom.com/weddings/spice-it-up-with-the-newlywed-cookbook/#comments Wed, 15 May 2013 15:00:51 +0000 Cara, Blog Contributor http://blogs.nordstrom.com/weddings/?p=14164 Wedding season is officially here, which means it’s time to start brainstorming some wedding gifts to give to all those new married couples! We love this easy, affordable and personal idea: a cookbook written specifically for newlyweds.

Help the couple start off on the right foot with 150 healthy recipes for day-to-day meals, special occasions, and romantic date nights at home. We especially love that The Newlywed Cookbook by Sarah Copeland focuses on sustainable elements, like going to farmers’ markets, growing your own vegetables, and making things from scratch—all fun activities to do with your partner! Also fun: eating this amazing-looking pasta dish. Now we’re hungry.

Tip:  for a personal touch, write a few of your favorite recipes down and include them in the card along with this gift!

Browse more gift ideas for the newly married couple.

1) I have a terrible wine opener, I always have to borrow my neighbor’s baking sheet and I hate my hand-me-down dishes. Meaning that there are several items of which that I could really use a new version. I usually wait to buy until I really need it (seriously, I’ve been using hand towels as oven mitts), but this is a great opportunity to upgrade!

2) People actually like giving wedding gifts, especially the older generations. Even if a couple already shares a home, it’s still a new phase in life that people enjoy contributing to. My parents say, “Oh, Aunt Dee got us this for our wedding,” about things they still have and use today! Thinking about this brought out my more traditional side and made me realize it would be nice to accept that form of support for our new life together.

Once we decided to register, it was  fun to pick out things for our home (obviously, right?). Even being hungry, tired and thirsty at 8pm at Crate & Barrel—a recipe for registry and relationship disaster—couldn’t stop me from enjoying the process. I mean, really, how fun is the little scanner?!

It’s also fun and easy to add to an online registry like MyRegistry.com—and easy to get carried away clicking!

Here are a few of my favorite things from our registries:

Even though I still feel a little silly, I’m reminding myself that this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so we should take advantage of being a bride and a groom!

(Disclaimer: this article was written from my personal perspective, not the perspective of my husband-to-be. I’m not sure he can muster up the same level of enthusiasm about this subject as I can! Though he did enjoy picking out a full bar kit.)

If you are using any of these terms to describe your wedding, then we love your style! And we have the perfect complement to your throwback-theme wedding, with retro-inspired bridesmaid dresses from Alfred Sung.

Fitted waists and flared skirts defined the era’s hourglass silhouette—and 60 years later these looks remain swoon-worthy. We love the polished and elegant shapes, but the bright colors make them youthful and fun.

And because one style doesn’t always fit all, feel free to let your ’maids choose their favorite style while you dictate the color.

Alfred Sung dresses pictured in Candy Coral, Begonia, Mandarin, Mango, Ivy, Aqua Marine and Charm.

Alfred Sung dresses are made to order and are available in our 18 Wedding Suites. Nordstrom Wedding Stylists will work with your girls to take their measurements and then follow up with each one to make sure they get their dresses, so you don’t have to worry! Whew, one less thing to think about.

Making an appointment is easy: just call 1.888.300.1295 or book online.

Shop other bridesmaid dresses online.

Betsey’s wedding shoe styles cover all the bases: from feminine lace, to flirty bows, to sparkly accents and elegant straps. And we love the wedding-appropriate names – ‘Ring’, ‘Honor’, ‘Veil’, ‘Knot’, ‘Vow’, ‘Wish’, ‘Bells’ and ‘Dance’ (the last being flats for you to change into at the reception so you can dance the night away. Perfect!)

And maybe the best part of all, the soles of all the shoes are a pretty light blue, so no more agonizing over how to sneak in a blue piece of something to your wedding. Ms. Johnson has truly given brides a surprise & delight!

‘Wish’ Pump | ‘Bells’ Sandal |‘Honor’ Pump | ‘Knot’ Sandal

‘Ring’ Sandal | ‘Vow’ Pump | ‘Veil’ Sandal | ‘Dance’ Flat

Shop more wedding shoes for brides and bridesmaids.

If you want to be featured on the blog in our Real Weddings section, email Nordstrom Wedding Stories and we’ll give you the details on what we need from you. It’s easy! And how cool to share your wedding story as an inspiration for other brides?!

P.S.: Photographers and wedding planners: you can submit a wedding too, at the same email address above.

Have you ever browsed through your grandparents’ wedding album for inspiration? Look beyond the dated photos and you’ll see this charming duo (the colors and the couple!) in not only the decor, but the bridal and bridal party fashion, as well. Make this color scheme your own with elegant table settings, bridesmaid dresses, and maybe a pop of pink to really bring out the cheerful hue of turquoise.

Want this look? Check out some of our favorite picks from The Wedding Suite at Nordstrom:

Pictured: Amsale Wedding Gown | Kendra Scott ‘Skylar’ Spear Earrings | Donna Morgan Peplum Dress

Nadri Crystal Bangle | Kate Spade Necklace | Kayu ‘Jen’ Straw Clutch | Ivanka Trump ‘Hara’ Sandal

XO,

Mandy and the Lover.ly Team

Inspiration images via Lover.ly

Photo by: Austin Gros on Wedding Chicks via Lover.ly | Photo by: Studio222 Photography on Every Last Detail via Lover.ly | Photo by: The Daylight on Bridal Musings via Lover.ly |Photo by: Katie Stoops Photography on Inspired By This via Lover.ly | Photo by: Imbue Weddings on Polka Dot Bride via Lover.ly | Photo by: Love Life Images on The Brides Cafe via Lover.ly | Photo by: Yan Photo on Snippet and Ink via Lover.ly | Photo by: Imbue Weddings on Polka Dot Bride via Lover.ly | Photo by: Beaux Arts Photographie on Kelly Oshiro via Lover.ly

Here are a few of our favorite types of cover-ups, straight from the runways and the designer showrooms:

Lace: At Hayley Paige, a dainty removable capelet was soft and feminine. At Vera Wang, it was loose and dark. (Fun fact: this black topper is called the “bubble tee.” Cute, right?)

Long: At Monique Lhuillier, it was all about length, in both solid and sheer fabrics. These floor-grazing capes are especially dramatic.

Tulle: At Lela Rose and Anne Barge, full-skirted gowns were topped with a sheer, airy layer of tulle.

Don’t miss Part 1 of our trend recap, as well as a “day in the life” of our bridal director Andrea at Bridal Fashion Week!

Here’s our take on her casual, comfortable look for the big day. Just add a handsome groom, a smile and a little skip in your step!

Jill Stuart Ruffled Chiffon Fit & Flare Dress | Tildon Beaded Bomber Sweater | Menbur Bridal Flat | Ray-Ban Classic Wayfarer Sunglasses

Don’t miss our little white dress lookbook with more short dress options!

Image courtesy of Daily Mail

Location, location, location! When it comes to choosing where to have your engagement photo session, there are several things to consider in order to make the most of this special shoot (really, it’s the fun part).

1. Choose somewhere special.
“The more meaningful the location, the more you will love your images and the better they will tell your story.”
- Dawn Nash Photography

A few specific ideas:
-Where you had your first date
-Where you had your first kiss
-Where you got engaged
-A destination that you love to get away to
-A locale that incorporates shared hobbies or interests (hiking, sports teams, etc.)

Nathan Moreau Photography

2. Determine your style.
“Having your wedding in the city? Then why not do a country- or rustic-themed engagement session, just to mix it up? Or, if you’re having a large ceremony in a beautiful cathedral, then consider an urban-grunge engagement session, if that suits your taste.”
- Jessica Chapman of Brio Media Photography & Design

Medcalf Photography

3. Be realistic, and make sure to check out the location beforehand.
“It is important to find a spot that reflects your love and a place where you’ll both feel comfortable. There is no such thing as an ugly location… there is beauty everywhere.”
- Eugenio Williams, The Wedding Traveler

The Wedding Traveler

4. Be creative.
“Think of all the creative locations that incorporate great architecture that you may not have access to on your wedding day. Consider creating a storyboard using images from magazines and posters that inspire you.”
- Jessica Chapman of Brio Media Photography & Design

Medcalf Photography

Don’t have a photographer yet? Check out SnapKnot’s list of local photographers, and in case you missed it, SnapKnot’s Top 10 Tips for wedding day photos.

Here are a few that caught our eye:

Sparkle: We saw lots of gorgeous embellishment coming down the runway. Think beading, sequins and metallic embroidery, for the bride who loves her bling.

Detailed Backs: Expanding on what we saw last year: low, lace, and bejeweled backs were everywhere. We love this idea, as brides tend to stand with their backs to the audience during the ceremony.

Lace Appliqué: This lovely fabrication was on everything from little white dresses to veils to gowns. Perfect as a romantic, feminine alternative to allover lace.

Check back for more trend recaps in the next few days!

One of our favorite pinning pastimes is finding inspiring color suggestions and images, and we know brides agree. So we’re thrilled to be partnering with The Perfect Palette on our Nordstrom Weddings Pinterest boards, to bring you ideas in every shade of the rainbow.

The Perfect Palette is THE source of color inspiration for parties, fashion, and of course, weddings. There are 54 shades to choose from on the Search by Color function, and more palette board ideas than we can count. The pairings are fresh and unique, and the color names (“cerulean”, “fig”, “latte”) take us back to our Crayola days.

Look for our shared Pinterest boards where we’re always pinning bouquets, table decor, bridesmaid dresses, bridal accessories and shoes…really, we’re as addicted as you are! We grouped colors in these categories so you can get mix-and-match inspiration.

BOLD BRIGHTS: think electric blue, hot pink, sunny yellow, grass green

SPARKLE & SHINE: think silver, gold, copper, pewter, bronze

PERFECT PASTELS: think peach, blush, mint, lavender, lemon

BLACK & WHITE: think, well, black and white (but oh, the combinations!)

Follow us and tell us what you like in your comments and repins!

We also have a NEW Shop by Color function for bridesmaid dresses on our site. Check it out!

Here we styled the gunmetal color in three different ways. Which do you like best?

Alexis Bittar Miss Havisham Cuff | Tasha Hexagonal Clutch | Nina ‘Mariana’ Sandal

Majorica Pearl Illusion Necklace | Sondra Roberts Crystal Mesh Clutch | DAVID TUTERA ‘Joy’ Sandal

Givenchy Aurelia Necklace | Tasha Flower Box Clutch | Miu Miu Glitter Sole Pointy Toe Pump

Quiet before full sunrise. World Trade Center going up in the background.

Prepped and ready with the essentials: change of shoes, jacket, snack.

Empire State Building framed by the Manhattan Bridge.

Loved meeting the darling Kelly Faetanini, and this gown!

Print bridesmaid dresses are here to stay at Amsale.

Found a sunny spot to stand and catch up on email for a few minutes!

Vera Wang. Now I know what to wear to my next red carpet event. Wink!

Amazing detail on this gown at Anne Barge.

Exciting color, lace, and print. We must be at Jenny Yoo!

Fancy business trip dinner: pizza!

For more insider access with Andrea, follow @NordstromWed on Twitter where she is live tweeting through the week!

We love: the nod to a retro sheath dress, and stunning flared skirt.

We love: the gorgeous silk faille texture and bateau neckline.

We love: the drop waist lace appliqué and amazing shape of the full skirt.

We love: the fitted top and flowy skirt connected by a sweet bow.

We love: the perfectly cut V-back and modern, tiered skirt.

To check out our current collection from Amsale, browse the lookbook of our exclusive line, Nouvelle Amsale. To make an appointment with a free Wedding Stylist, call 1.888.300.1295 or book an appointment online!

While we could talk for days about all the details, we also know a picture is worth a thousand words—so follow our fashion week journey through the photos below (with more to come this week!). You can also follow the action on Twitter @NordstromWed where our bridal director, Andrea Wasserman, is live tweeting throughout each day!

Mt. Rainier greets us along the way to the airport in Seattle.

At the hotel, laying out the week’s shoes. The flats will come in handy!

Central Park view from our hotel. We could get used to this!

First meeting with the lovely Kelly Faetanini, with a gorgeous lace back dress.

Next to the runway at Vera Wang. Seeing lots of black and white!

Buyer Sharon examines the Vera Wang gowns up close.

At Nicole Miller, checking out a favorite gown, now in lace!

Sharon and Lisa looking through options. Decisions, decisions!

Andrea and designer Heidi Elnora ending the night at dinner–in matching jean jackets.

Check back this week for more coverage of Bridal Fashion Week including our favorite new trends!

At one point, I considered using a professional florist or getting premade bouquets from a farmer’s market, but I’ve also been trying to find ways to cut costs. After a little research, it was clear that buying fresh-cut flowers in bulk is much cheaper, and arranging bouquets can be pretty simple.

A local flower guide snapped from a Seattle magazine inspired me to make my own arrangements.

I don’t have specific color preferences; I want all kinds of bright, summery flowers, like dahlias, anemones, gladiolas and zinnias. I found out that there’s a farm right next to our wedding venue that sells bulk blooms all summer, so I’m working with them on what will be available at the time of our wedding.

Pretty dahlias in bulk from a local farm, via Pacific Horticulture.

Then I thought, if I’m going DIY, I might as well REALLY go for it and grow some flowers myself! So I bought a few bags of bulbs at Costco and planted them last weekend in containers on our deck. Hopefully, they’ll add some color to our house, and then we can harvest in time for the wedding. (P.S. If you go to Costco, I dare you to not spend an hour looking at all the pretty color combos and flower choices! I had to be dragged away.)

Nothing says SPRING like planting flowers in the sun!

There are great resources online for how to create bouquets and other decorative arrangements. My favorite is the Cali-based duo Wedding Chicks. The whole wedding site is gorgeous and addictive! In one section, they share “Bouquet Recipes,” with beautiful images, names of every flower used (so helpful!), and easy-to-follow instructions.

Amy, one of the chicks, said, “We decided to create Bouquet Recipes as a segment to help brides identify the flowers that they love. It’s also meant to inspire brides for their own bouquets, whether they hire a professional or choose DIY.” She also made a great point to me about DIY: “We would suggest testing your skills a few times before the big day to make sure you can achieve the desired result and look!”

Peach bouquet via Wedding Chicks with amaryllises, peonies and much more.

Fortunately, I won’t truly be doing it on my own. I’ll be recruiting my mom, mother-in-law, sister and bridesmaids to help. I actually can’t think of anything more fun than sitting in the sun with my girls, sipping sangria and arranging bouquets!

“We love when brides choose to take advantage of their bridal moments and wear white (or ivory, off-white, eggshell… you get it!) for every wedding-related occasion. Whether it’s the engagement celebration, bridal shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner, wedding reception or morning-after brunch, we’ve got the look.”

Here are Andrea’s tips on how to wear a few of our favorite LWDs:

“Pair this flirty Jill Stuart dress with the shoe of the season: a single-soled pump in a floral print.”

Jill Stuart Ruffled Chiffon Fit & Flare Dress

“Combine a sexy Monique Lhuillier strapless number (a Nordstrom exclusive), statement shoes and a glamorous necklace coordinate for a high-impact look.”

ML Monique Lhuillier Bridesmaids Strapless Ruched Cationic Chiffon Dress

“This day-to-night Donna Morgan dress picks up on the illusion necklines we’re seeing on the bridal runways. Pair it with an on-trend floral box clutch.”

Donna Morgan Embellished Ruffle Chiffon Dress

“Glam up this feminine, lace Eliza J sheath dress with show-stopping metallic heels in rose gold.”

Eliza J Embellished V-Neck Lace Dress

Which is your favorite look for wedding events? Or do you want to take them all?!

You can’t go wrong with polka dots for bridesmaid dresses, especially in classic navy and white. Mix and match your ‘maids or stick with one style for all. Either way, your ladies will enjoy the compliments, trust us!

Adrianna Papell Burnout Polka Dot Dress | Taylor Dresses Polka Dot Sheath

Taylor Dresses Dotted Fit & Flare Dress | Taylor Dresses Belted Fit & Flare Dress

Adrianna Papell Polka Dot Fit & Flare Dress | Matty M Polka Dot Flared Surplice Dress

Getting inspiration from Pinterest (a bride’s BFF, right?), our bride put together this “survival kit” for her groom. It was an easy, personal and inexpensive way to let him know she was thinking of him and help him out through the day. (We especially love the “Lifesavers” line!) The couple also wrote each other sincere notes to commemorate the day, which they will always treasure.

If you think this sounds like the makings for a rockin’ party, we’d have to agree. And while it may have started at 9 a.m. instead of 9 p.m. (and was technically considered work!), we had a really, really, really good time. There’s nothing better than filming a wedding dance video with your friends and co-workers—except when Macklemore & Ryan Lewis make a cameo appearance to lend some well-dressed style and hot moves to the scene!

Now go behind the scenes to see the making of the video and get a glimpse into the Best. Day. Ever.

Oh, and did we mention there was a photo booth on set? We had so much fun hamming it up for the camera, we just had to make a lookbook out of the shots! Check out our employees modeling looks from our wedding suites here!

Haven’t seen the full video yet? Don’t miss it! You can watch it here.