After "YES," Before "I DO" and Everything In Between

It's no longer surprising that a bride, who wore a traditional white gown for her wedding ceremony, might don a completely different ensemble for her wedding reception.  These days it's almost expected.  And when this is the case for our clients, I usually offer the suggestion that they complement the wedding cake (or vice-versa).  This approach is sure to make an impressive statement and work really well during the holiday season.  For instance, here are some of my personal suggestions for the New Year's Eve bride : (credits: #1- dress by Dorothy Perkins; cake by Sublime Bakery   #2 - dress by ADAM; cake by CrazyCakes   #3 - dress by Charlotte Eskildsen; cake by Sweet & Saucy Shop   #4 - dress by Marchesa; cake by Debbie Bone   #5 - dress byDiane von Furstenberg; cake by Sugarplum Visions   #6 - dress by Emanuel Ungaro; cake by Tallant House ) - - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PART...

Looking for a save-the-date that's far removed from the more common refrigerator magnets or calendar cards?  Then it's time to mosey over to White Aisle and check out their wood stationary !  These lovely pieces pack just enough of the "wow factor" most brides are looking for, while also conveying a modest and natural touch.  And White Aisle offers wood invitations as well.  Indeed a great find.  - - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PARTY

We wish you, our extended family, a safe, healthy and happy Holiday Season   and may its peace and joy be with you throughout the coming year! from the staff of The Bridal Party Extravagant Experiences and Stylish Soirées Full Service Wedding & Event Planning rashanaanderson.com

... for its Founder & Managing Director, ME.  That's right, THE BRIDAL PARTY certainly does more than just weddings.  So when it came time to throw me a spur-of-the-moment baby shower, since my boy/girl twins arrived early back in September , it all came together ... in the most intimate way, focusing on love and family.  The chosen location was Dolce Hotel & Resort in Basking Ridge, New Jersey.  Of course I could have had a "sip-and-see," being that I'd already given birth ... but we opted for a traditional shower, just minus the big belly!  Another job well done.     The theme was "everything times two ... pink & blue" and included lots of whimsical elements (polka dot balloons, carousel horse centerpieces, miniature foods and a decadent ice-cream sundae bar).     Guests loved the "diaper-folded" napkins, tucked menu cards and Hershey kisses (1 pink, 1 blue) that graced each place setting.  Several attendees revealed t...

The Bridal Party's Vintage Romance Bride tied the knot yesterday afternoon at Queen of Peace Church in North Arlington, New Jersey and it was a beautiful event. I'd worked with the couple as well as the mother-of-the-bride for about a year on this 225 guest affair and had been anxiously awaiting the actual day of festivities. We had such a great time swapping ideas for the overall theme, starting with the inspiration board I compiled, and were really able to design a cohesive event.  First, they exchanged vows with full mass, and then partied the night away at the One and Only Westmount Country Club in West Patterson, New Jersey.  Truly a great way to start a magnificent Halloween weekend. Everyone had a blast! Below are a few of my snapshots, but professional photographs are coming soon. - - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PARTY

Don't forget, today is DAY ONE of GILT GROUPE 's Wedding Shop! GILT GROUPE is the fabulous members-only luxury sample sale website that offers the hottest luxury designer products at 70% off ... and for brides, they're even offering Reem Acra gowns. GILT GROUPE 's Wedding Shop will end at midnight on Saturday, October 23rd, so hurry. A new category of bridal sales will launch at noon each day and they will be offering everything a bride or groom could want for their special day, from dresses and accessories to suits and cufflinks to deals off photographers, wedding planners and even honeymoons. Happy Shopping! - - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PARTY

Fall 2011 bridal collections will be hitting the runway soon! Exciting, indeed. When Spring 2011 graced the catwalks with its soft flows and layers in April, we were "wow'd" for sure, so I'm expecting Fall 2011 won't disappoint. Let's take a quick look back at my favorite pieces from Douglass Hannant, Oscar de la Renta and Vera Wang. DOUGLASS HANNANT OSCAR de la RENTA   VERA WANG (photos courtesy of Coutorture) - - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PARTY