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

At the close of summer, another of our lovely couples, Lorraine and Alim, tied the knot at The Fox Hollow in Woodbury, New York.  I first met the bride during an appearance of mine on The Wendy Williams Show  seven years ago.  She was a producer on that show at the time, but is now Vice President of Programming for True Entertainment and Executive Producer of Bravo's hit " The Real Housewives of Atlanta ."  When she became engaged and called me to help plan her wedding, I was beyond thrilled ... and the rest in history. Lorraine and Alim are both proud New Yorkers, so much of their wedding's design stemmed from that.  We designed and executed an extravagantly beautiful affair where hues of purple and grey took center stage.  The venue's lush, outdoor garden was chosen for the ceremony, which featured a wooden pergola draped in flowing fabric and fresh flowers.  A live jazz duo provided romantic accompaniment, as the bride walked down the aisle to Ch...

It’s been a while since we've shared one of our couple’s engagement photos, but once these were revealed I knew I wouldn't be able to resist.  The bride, Executive Producer of Real Housewives of Atlanta , and the groom, a successful real estate investor, are both proud "New Yorkers" so they held the photo shoot in none other than Central Park with Boschelli Photography .  They chose a gorgeous Spring day and literally took a walk through the park! We've  been working with this beautiful couple  for several months … planning, preparing and anxiously anticipating their September nuptials, taking place in Long Island.  So far it’s  poignantly  clear this event will be absolutely fabulous!  I’m truly excited for them both, so stay tuned. Enjoy ...

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...

Last week, we discussed the world of the energetic, boisterous, spitfire Glam Tomboy .  Today, part 2 of my series on how to translate your personal style into your wedding design and look continues with the BUSINESS BEAUTY : The Business Beauty is refined, cultured, loyal to a specific aesthetic and exudes swank.  Designer handbags, understated yet exquisite jewelry and blazers are staples in her wardrobe.  Yet, she also enjoys inserting menswear influences here and there.  It's never a problem for her to take an in-the-office look and turn it into high fashion.  For her it's always quality over quantity, but she still loves to make a statement. If you're a Business Beauty , consider these inspirations for your wedding:   (photos courtesy of KT Merry Photography and Nadia D. Photography ) Tradition is preferred in this case, but a little twist here and there is still acceptable.  Push stark white aside and lead with creamy ivor...

I've always believed your wedding should be a reflection of who you are as opposed to what trends, critics and magazines specifically call for.  In the grand scheme of things, there really are no wrong answers for brides-to-be.  Whatever you like is perfect!  So, I've been working on this four-part series on how to translate your personal style into your wedding design and look. The series will feature ladies who are not “real” brides, but have inspired me via a bold sense of style and each week I'll share my thoughts on the direction this type of woman should take in planning her wedding.   Sounds like fun, right? Without further adieu, let's get started with the GLAM TOMBOY : The Glam Tomboy is energetic, sometimes boisterous and can be a spitfire for sure.  Boyfriend jeans and studded jackets are staples in her wardrobe.  Yet, she's easy-breezy, chill and relaxed, able to go up against the best of 'em when it comes to glamming it up and showca...

We were ecstatic to find out another of our gorgeous weddings was chosen to be published ... this time in New Jersey's premier bridal magazine, New Jersey Bride!  You'll find our Glamour & Grandeur couple on page 186 inside the new Spring 2013 issue.  It's quite a lovely spread too. - - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PARTY LLC

Over the weekend, we were very excited to have attended COUTURE: New York Bridal Fashion Week (formerly WeddingChannel Couture Show), which is the most established, premier bridal industry trade show in New York and has been the launching pad for legendary wedding dress designers such as Monique Lhuillier, Reem Acra and Lela Rose.  This magnificent event, held twice a year, welcomes thousands of national and international designers, retailers and press to introduce, buy and announce the latest fashion trends of the bridal world.  And this year, Austin Scarlett unveiled plans for his new bridal collection, set to debut in fall 2012 at New York Bridal Fashion Week!  Although we're scheduled to attend Austin's autumn runway show, it was such an honor to be afforded an opportunity to meet and interview him during the exclusive preview. Austin first gained recognition for his designs on the original season of Project Runway before being one of the youngest designers in ...

Thanks to the variety of décor and event planning shows on television, most folks preparing special events are looking to create what's known as "Celebrity Style." Now ... is that what you had in mind? (wink) Perhaps you're thinking of a red-carpet themed wedding or a grand exit from your reception that involves you and your new spouse waving goodbye to your guests on a yacht! Whatever your fancy, key ways to liven your event to "Celebrity Style" aren't too complicated (even if you're on a budget), and could be as simple as incorporating glamorous lighting, unique floral pieces and ... specialty linens! White and/or ivory table cloths and napkins are classic and will always be beautiful, but why not pull your guests even further into your experience with table dressings that will formulate a vibrant and contemporary look.   Never be afraid to be different. Go against the grain with your linens as a step to achieving a "Cel...