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

The Bridal Party's RU Pink Bride was married yesterday afternoon at the Voorhees Chapel on the campus of Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey (which is her, the groom and my alma mater). This ceremony site was founded in 1925 and is often the site of college ceremonies, student assemblies, musical concerts, weddings and other programs by artists, scholars and speakers.  Immediately following the ceremony a reception was held at the Bridgewater Manor and guests were intrigued throughout the day and evening by the beautiful pink and silver palette, a touching hand-fasting ceremony and a 7-piece live band.  Each and every guest left joyfully satisfied with the good times that were had and all involved did an magnificient job. Below are a few snapshots of the day. And of course, professional photographs coming soon!   Also, our signature PINK "Sweets Sideboard" was a huge hit! - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PART

(photo courtesy of Utah Bride and Groom Magazine )   The six shades above were launched by Essie this spring, but when it comes to brides, I'm not sure any will gravitate to these newbies for the big day besides Ethereal Optimist or Flawless .  As far as nails go, old-faithful tends to be the french manicure.  But, hasn't that become a tad bit boring ladies?  Going for a bright, mesmerizing blue may not make you feel bridal , but it wouldn't hurt to give up those white-line tips and consider different style and hue...or two.  And don't be afraid to go ahead and let your bridesmaids go against the grain as well. Since white won't be their signature color that day, perhaps allowing them to choose a deep shade that matches their gowns wouldn't be such a bad idea. In the meantime, here are a few of my favorites for the "HBIC" (translation: Head Bride In Charge ): - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PA

Setting up your wedding registry doesn't have to be as confusing and stressful as it may seem. It's actually quite easy to have fun while hand-picking many of the items you'll receive for your wedding. Just be sure to do your research, take your time and make it count! So, if you have room for a few more items, here are a few snazzy picks in the marketplace to consider: Michael Aram for Waterford "Garland" Dinnerware Collection Milky bone china embossed with a simple ring of laurel. Perfect for formal or casual dining. Premium Margaritaville Trio Frozen Concoction Maker This impressive machine delivers pitcher upon pitcher of restaurant-quality frozen drinks thanks to its 3 independent blending stations. Blends delicious margaritas, daiquiris, piña coladas, mudslides, mojitos and smoothies at the touch of a button.   Bamboo Bread Box Naturally variegated bands of renewable bamboo create a sleek curved profile, with a roomy interior.     Dirt Devil Kurv Ha

Our Weekly Wedding Eye-Candy today features a West New York wedding that took place last summer on a mountaintop at Holiday Valley-Ski Snowboard Golf Resort & Conference Center .  This location is in the heart of ski-country, so even though there wasn't a flurry in sight, the bride, groom and guests all went up the mountain on the ski lift for the ceremony.  So sweet, I know!  The gorgeous photos were taken by Argento Photography and the fireworks display made for a magnificient icing-on-the-cake .  My favorite element, however, was the bicycle grand exit amidst dozens of sparklers.  Nice touch. Feast your eyes ... - - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PARTY

Your After "Yes," Before "I Do" & Everything In Between archive reminder has arrived! Again, let's take a look back at about a month's worth of interesting and informative posts one full year ago. * Paper Lanterns (inspiration for infusing paper lanterns into your event) * NEW from PosePrints! (unique silhouette cards PLUS The Bridal Party's special discount) * Have you discovered GENI? (online tool for staying in touch with your family) * Inspiration Board: Chocolate Twist * Photo Ops (introductions to the photography of Jeff Ascough, Bebb Studios, Joe Buissink, Jerry Ghionis and Christian Oth) - - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, The Bridal Party

My awesome time as a wedding singer allowed me to hear, learn and perform a wonderful variety of first dance songs . I've sung ballads, rock hits, hip-hop, country, folk and even tunes in different languages based upon the specific requests of brides and grooms. But through it all, there are only a few at the top of my personal list. Below are my top three. I used Oleta Adams' prayerful tune, "Just Before I Go To Sleep" in my own wedding and the lyrics to "Make Me Whole" by Amel Larrieux are among the sweetest I've ever heard. Still, "When You Love Someone" is my all-time favorite and will most likely kick off the soundtrack of my husband and I renewing our vows some 20 years from now. Enjoy! Just Before I Go To Sleep by Oleta Adams SNIPPET: Just before I go to sleep I say a prayer that God will keep the two that He's joined together safe and more in love than ever. When You Love Someone by Bryan Adams SNIPPET: You'll de

  (escort card design by Sarah Drake Design ) I love escort/place cards and nowadays there are countless unique ideas for displaying them in the most special ways. Some arrange their cards in various shapes amidst flickering votive candles or hang their cards from the branches of Manzanita trees, while others invest in holders that make a bold statement. If considering escort/place card holders, remember to keep these impressive styles for various themes in mind... Eco-Friendly Bamboo Place Card Holders A symbol of friendship and long life in many cultures, bamboo brings an exotic touch to any wedding celebration. You'll be amazed at how something so light and delicate can carry so much meaning to your guests. "Ain′t Love Grand" - Piano Place Card Holders A decorative gift for your guests to take home and use as photo holders, these diminutive replicas of a grand piano are especially adorable for brides/grooms who are pianists. "Bourbon Street" Streetligh