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

When designing events, especially weddings, I go out of my way to incorporate memorability in even the smallest of details.  In my opinion, that's what will set your wedding apart from the others your guest have attended and even become accustom to.  And while I'm a huge fan of "WOW factor," I'm well aware not everyone has a "WOW budget" to match.  With that said, creatively infusing subtle touches that are in line with your ethetic go a long way.  Trust me, one or two of these little ideas can make a BIG impact. Here are a few ideas/trends I am crushing lately:   Napkin-Wrap Menu Cards - In my opinion, no wedding table is complete without menu cards - and these are such a unique way to showcase what each guest will be served.  These can be dressed up or down depending on the style of your event as well.  Plus, they save space!   Monogram Cupcake Display - This idea creates a wonderful opportunity to add pizzazz to your decor while also of...

Living in what some call the "Digital Age," our lives are governed by virtual tools.  More than telephoning, we catch up with friends and family by Facebook, email or text.  We view/cherish each other's photos online as opposed to flipping through actual albums or asking to have copies made.  And instead of waiting for the mailman to see if you've been invited to a special event, most times invitations are waiting for you in your email inbox.  The company, Paperless Post, made a name for itself doing just that, allowing people to send visually interactive and engaging invitations/cards by email.  I excitedly used their service for two of my children's big events, their dedication and 2nd birthday party .  But, to my surprise, PAPER by Paperless Post emerged a few months back for those of us who still look forward to receiving an actual envelope in our mailboxes.  Admittedly, finding out Paperless Post (having over 1.5 million registered users) wasn'...

Are you a sparkle-and-shine bride who loves lots of bling?  Are you a fan of old Hollywood glamour, channeling Audrey Hepburn or Dorothy Dandridge, who's in love with everything "antique-y?"  Are you an outside-the-box, new-age bride who is focused having a non-traditional wedding?  Or are you a little bit of ALL of the above.  Well, there is a ton of inspiration out there for whatever style wedding you're interested in having.  Check out a few of the ideas we've compiled via Pinterest : BRIDAL BLING   VINTAGE VOWS   MOD MARRIAGE - - - - - - - - - - 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 ...

It's no secret Pinterest is making its mark in the world of weddings and events.  So, if you're not pinning, you certainly should be.  Or, if you don't have the time, just let us crafty-creative types do all of the work while you sit back and watch (wink). Be sure to follow me and The Bridal Party LLC on Pinterest today!  We've collected an awesome starting lineup of 4 Wedding Boards comprised of 268 pins, and counting.  Here's a sampling of some of the frills and yummies we've compiled so far: HAPPY PIN-ING! - - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PARTY

As in fashion (sans the reality show, Project Runway), also for weddings one day you're in ... and the next day you're out .  WeddingChannel.com , the number-one wedding and gift registry website, has created a list of wedding details not to skip during wedding planning this year.  Some of Hollywood’s top A-listers like Katie Holmes, Ben Affleck, Jennifer Aniston, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Katherine Heigl, Jim Carrey and Billy Joel, gave an insider’s look at what’s in (and out) for 2012.  Take a look: Wedding Dress In: Coy coverage Out: Dare-to-bare necklines Although designers have been creating dresses with sleeves for years, Kate Middleton has brought the trend mainstream. Don’t consider long sleeves your only option. Think: capelets, illusion sleeves, sheer backs and even a bolero for a demure wedding day look that’s all your own. “Every bride wants a gown and wedding that is uniquely ‘theirs,’” says Randy Fenoli, star of TLC’s Say Ye...

Thankfully videography/cinematography is regaining it's strength and popularity among brides and grooms.  As I always say, there's nothing like a MOTION PICTURE, and the trend of using video for save-the-date communication is growing leaps and bounds.  After all, unlikely someone in receipt of an ultra-modern video reminder will forget to make note of your upcoming nuptials.  You just can't throw something like this aside in a pile of bills. Brides and Grooms, you can contact your favorite cinematographer OR even grab your FlipVideo camera and create your own little masterpiece.  It's all up to you.  The best thing about any finished product is that it will be a living, breathing reflection of your love and the amazing new life you're soon to embark upon. Check out a few of our all-time favorites: - - - - - - - - - - by Rashana Anderson Founder & Managing Director, THE BRIDAL PARTY

We shared snapshots of our Isle To Aisle wedding back in September but, to our delight, professional photos became available today! We'd worked with this couple for over a year prior to their big day, via satellite (since they reside in the Washington, D.C. / Northern Virginia area).  We partnered on each and every detail of their wedding, from selecting the venue, to incorporating their African and Caribbean heritages, to the intricate design of their wedding cake; and it all came together on September 3rd at Dolce Basking Ridge .  The ceremony and cocktail hour took place within the venue's handsome courtyard as guests were treated to the soothing sounds of a jazz duo.  The outdoor festivities were followed by a posh reception which featured signature cocktails, photo booth and a surprise African dance troupe performance.  The dance-floor was rarely empty ... guests continuously raved about how much fun they were having. The chosen color scheme was a phe...