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

You know, Oprah's not the only one with an annual list of "favorite things." So this year I thought I'd share a few of my most wanted items with you brides and fashionistas alike.  I'm especially loving the Burberry Duffel (can you say "fierce!"), Whitney English Day Designer (can't wait to get my dreams/goals/creativity aligned) and long-stemmed Camille Wine Glasses (an ode to Scandal's "Olivia Pope"). Plus, I'll let you in on a little secret (shhhhh....don't tell my hubby): I already ordered one of these beauties  and am beyond excited to receive!   Happy Holidays!! Burberry Little Crush | Whitney English Day Designer | Henri Bendel Petal Hoops | Stuart Weitzman '5050 Boots | Coach Long Bonnie Gloves | Kitchenaid Stand Mixer | Crate & Barrel Camille Wine Glasses | Burberry Duffel Coat   | TUMI Vapor | Ugg Short Sparkles Classic  - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing ...

Isn't it refreshing when you come across elegant, fashion-forward, non-traditional gowns for mothers of the bride and groom?  The kind that she feels young and vibrant in?  The types of garments that are memorable and figure flattering?  (pausing ... because this almost never happens, until NOW) Check out BHLDN 's latest array of lovelies just for the mamas !  I must admit, I'm impressed. Happy Planning (and Shopping)! - - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PARTY LLC

Our Bright Artistry couple was married over the weekend at The Unitarian Church in Summit .  When I first met with the bride and groom, venues were the only details firmly decided upon.  So, we worked together for 9 months on the design, planning and execution.  You may recall us sharing Lisa & Dave's engagement photos back in March and now we're proud to recap their wedding and reception, which took place at The Short Hills Hilton .  On what was officially the last day of Summer , our team successfully achieved the elegant and warm-hearted atmosphere the bride and groom set out to create.  Hues of aquamarine and pink took center stage via the bridesmaid dresses, specialty linens, stationary and wedding cake.  The ballroom was illuminated by "candlelight," both literally and figuratively.  Square dinner tables were placed throughout in order to add variety, which featured 2 centerpiece designs flanked by 18-inch tall white tapers and gold-...

This Saturday, our Bright Artistry couple is tying the knot and for the first time we've decided to bring all of you behind the scenes (via Instagram , that is) as we execute this extraordinary wedding in suburban New Jersey. Follow THE BRIDAL PARTY on Instagram for a first-hand look at our teams in action, as we celebrate Lisa & Dave's nuptials on September 21st.  Saturday's going to be a perfect day for a wedding!  ♥   - - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PARTY LLC

Every now and then we get to share a few of our client's engagement photos ... and today's one of those days!  Here's a look at our Bright Artistry couple's engagement photoshoot, courtesy of 3 Photographers . This adorable couple and I started working together last month, preparing for their wedding taking place late September.  And just this weekend, the following really candid and fun shots were captured in the Brooklyn NY neighborhood called DUMBO (an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass).  Enjoy ...   P.S.  Just in case you missed them, go see past engagement shoots we previously shared: Engaged & Excited (2011) Engaged & Elated (2011) Engaged & Ecstatic (2012) - - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PARTY LLC

If you're reading this, you're one of After "YES," Before "I DO" and Everything In Between 's (official blog of THE BRIDAL PARTY ) beloved readers. First, thank you for your support.  Second, we'd like to make sure you're always "in the know" with what's going on in the world of weddings (from our prospective, of course). So, if you haven't already, consider adopting a few of the following tools: Be sure to "like" THE BRIDAL PARTY on Facebook ! We have 1,659 fans and counting . Our Facebook page is the perfect place for wedding/event tips, interesting conversation, photos, ideas and exciting news. Follow THE BRIDAL PARTY on twitter too! You'd be joining 955 other readers and supporters , plus you'll be just in time for our second twitter series, " Bride Ideas 3 ," which begins next month. Don't miss it. (details to follow) Also keep track of what we're pinning ove...

Let's face it, a wedding's ALWAYS the perfect reason to celebrate, laugh and dance! Check out a typical day at The Knot offices, with Randy Fenoli:

Part 4 of my series on how to translate your personal style into your wedding design and look is here!  We've already explored the Glam Tomboy , Business Beauty and  Bradshaw Belle .  Today we continue with the DIAMOND DIVA : The Diamond Diva is high-maintenance.  Some would consider her flashy and flamboyant, but it's mostly due to her ability to command a great deal of attention .  She seeks out only the very best and tends to follow celebrity trends.  Still, she likes to be exclusive and one-of-a-kind stays top of mind.  WOW factor is her middle name.  She makes no apologies for innate expensive taste. If you're a Diamond Diva , consider these inspirations for your wedding:   (photos courtesy of One and Only Paris Photography , Wedding Inspirasi and Karen Tran Floral Design ) Sometimes, it's all about location ... therefore, Destination Paris!  After all, what's better than the Eiffel Tower as a backd...

In parts 1 and 2 of my series on how to translate your personal style into your wedding design and look, we focused on the Glam Tomboy and the Business Beauty .  Today, part 3 continues with the BRADSHAW BELLE (affectionately named after the Sex & The City character "Carrie Bradshaw"): The Bradshaw Belle is stylish, creative, spontaneous and emotional.  Her closet's full of pieces that epitomize her personality.  She loves color, bold patterns and layering, which in most cases leads her to pairing unique combinations together.  There are times when she'd rather be simple, but there always has to be a twist.  She's a risk-taker above all else. If you're a Bradshaw Belle , consider these inspirations for your wedding:   (photos courtesy of Lisa Devlin Photography , Kristen Taylor Photography and Karen Tran Floral Design ) Infuse a Bohemian-chic vibe into your attire, it's trendy yet nostalgic at the same time.  Knowing yo...

Sure, mounds of snow still cover sidewalks throughout the Northeast, but Spring will be here before you know it.  Two of my favorite retailers have just announced their newest bridal collections, BHLDN and J. Crew .  But what I'm most excited about is what's in store for bridesmaids! Seems this year's calling for shorter lengths as well as more focus on muted colors. Here are a few of my favorites.  Be sure to pick out yours. P.S.  Brides, you should also consider one of these beauties for yourself (i.e. Bridal Shower, Bridesmaid Tea or even Rehearsal Dinner) BHLDN Spring Bridal             J. Crew Spring Bridal         - - - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PARTY LLC