wedding belle final

Belle 12 WINTER BRIDAL BOUQUETS

HOT NEW

VENUE DRESSING FOR THE OCCASION Tips from the pros

3 Honeymoons DESTINATION

41WEDDING DAY TIPS Preparation for your big day

CONTENTS

41-42

41

WEDDING DAY TIPS Preparation for your big day

You already have the perfect fiancĂŠ, the perfect ring and the perfect wedding dress. Now you just need to get through the wedding day without turning into a raging bridezilla.

23

POPULAR DRESS TRENDS

78

SEASONAL FLOWERS

97

Article by: Kristin Chessman

Popular dress picks for your body type.

Fabric, styles, and top choices for 2012.

78

Article by: Nina Callaway

Picking wedding flowers in season can save you a bunch of money. Look at the selection to pick your perfect flowers.

12 NEW PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

Article by: Mckenna George New tips to make your wedding pictures unique. Fun prop ideas, and wardrobe advice for engagement pictures.

BRIDAL PARTY 12 13

Bridesmaid dresses Where to shop

BOUQUET 22 36

Seasonal bouquets Florists advice

HONEYMOON 72 98

Top getaways Popular resort locations

DRESS 32 45

Dress for your body Fabric and more

CAKE 82 78

97

Popular flavors 2012 Top styles

{5 BOUQUETS} SPRING WEDDING

1 42

2

3

5 1 Paper Bouquet Satin, lace, chiffon, tulle and velvet help

make this beautiful bouquet a one-of-a-kind show stopper.

2 White Roses Wedding styles come and go, but white never goes out of style: its a classic.

3 Brooch Bouquet Making a brooch bouquet is quite the DIY project! It takes creativity but it is a worthy endeavor.

4 Pale Pink extra material from your the handle of your bouquet.

wedding dress to personalize

5 Lily Bouquet Clean classic bouquet with all white lily’s and wrap it in a pink silk ribbon.

22 WEDDING BELLE • Spring

1 google.com 2 greenweddingshoes.com 3 bestflowerpictures.com 4 pinterest.com 5 Ruffled.com

3

WEDDING BELLE

{ 2012 Volume 3 }

3 WEDDING BELLE • Spring 2012

{3HONEYMOON} ROMANTIC

ACCORDING TO NEWSTRAVEL. COM THE TOP THREE BEST HONEYMOON LOCATIONS http://travel.usnews.com

Santorini Your first order of business in Santorini is to hit the black sand beaches, especially southeastern Perissa or Kamari on the main island of Thira. Next up, check to see if the archaeological delights of Ancient Akrotiri are open to visitors. Some would say you only need a day to enjoy these islands' charms (they are a popular port of call for cruise ships). Then you'll have plenty of time to learn there's more to these comely dots of the Cyclades.

2

Maui Maui is an attraction-filled destination that seems like a compilation of Hawaii's best qualities. Surfing beaches? Step off the plane, take one whiff of the plumeria blooms and you'll be hooked on Maui.

You should note that every Hawaiian island offers something different. For most visitors, Maui excels at providing the envisioned Hawaiian vacation and is the perfect introduction to the archipelago of Maui.

3

Crete If there was one word to describe the Greek island of Crete, it would be "diverse." Sandy beaches hide amongst soaring mountains, palm-tree forests grow in the middle of sprawling plains, bustling modern cities share coastline with ancient ruins. And speaking of cities -- in Crete they reflect the people that came before; the streets are lined with architecture mirroring the styles of the Images credited to google.com, text travel.us.new.

97 WEDDING BELLE • Spring

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98 WEDDING BELLE • Spring

WEDDING DAY Preparation Tips from brides

You already have the perfect fiancÊ, the perfect ring and the perfect wedding dress. Now you just need to get through the wedding day without turning into a raging bridezilla. Think it can’t be done? Think again! Check out this wedding day advice from happily married brides. Getting things in order the morning of your wedding can help set the tone for how the rest of your day will go. If you plan accordingly and enlist some help, it can be a joyful morning. While getting your hair done and primping in your wedding gown, take your time and start your day off right.

WEDDING DAY Preparation Tips from brides

Y

ou have never been quite so prepared for anything in your life. It’s been months of wonderful and painstaking planning.

You’ve attended to all the details, big and small.

But in the final few hours before you walk down the aisle, there is still much to be done to get you feeling and looking your best.

It begins even before you open your eyes.

Sleeping well the night before your wedding is essential. Not only will a good rest leave you refreshed, it’ll help you look your most beautiful.

That’s not to say you need to get more sleep than normal -- doing so may make you feel groggy.

According to the National Sleep Foundation in Washington, D.C., you will sleep more soundly and wake up with more energy by sticking to your usual sleep schedule.

Sleep will also come easier if you are mindful of your behavior that evening. Take only a few sips of wine or Champagne when it’s time to toast at the rehearsal dinner. Too much alcohol can disrupt sleep, as can caffeine, so steer clear of coffee, tea, and chocolate, too. Instead drink

“ Finally, look in the mirror to be sure everything is in place. Then take a deep breath, and make your first step toward the most wonderful moment of your life.”

plenty of water to keep your body hydrated and your complexion glowing, says Rosemarie Ingleton, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City. If it’s getting late, feel free to leave; everyone will understand. Once home, remove your makeup with your regular cleanser. Don’t use new soaps, toners, or masks. Your skin could become inflamed, or you could have an allergic reaction unknowingly aggravate an underlying skin condition. (In fact, avoid any new products or procedures, such as facials, in the two weeks before the wedding.)

When you wake up, be sure to eat a good breakfast.

If you forget to eat, you could feel lethargic; plus, eating early will give the food a chance to settle.

If jitters are curbing your appetite, try something light, such as toast, a muffin, or a scone with jam.

And have protein-rich snacks -- nuts or yogurt to eat during the day.

Next, it’s time for a shower or bath. Ask your hair stylist if you should shampoo the night before or the day of -- the answer will depend on your hair type and style. Allow yourself extra time to soak, and use your favorite scented bath oils, salts, gels, or soaps.

Lavender, chamomile, orange, and grapefruit will help you relax; peppermint, rosemary, and cloves will boost your energy.

It’s best to do all styling and primping before you slip into your dress, except final touches like lipstick. Wear a button-down shirt so you won’t ruin your hairstyle or makeup pulling a T-shirt over your head when it is time to get into your wedding attire.

Be sure to bring your headpiece with you if the stylist will need to work it into your hair; also bring any makeup of your own you’ll be using. Arrange to have a manicure and pedicure the day before so you don’t have to worry about wet nails.

Plan to start getting ready about two hours before the ceremony, earlier if you’re taking formal photographs first. You might want to ask your photographer to take some pictures as you are dressing (once you’re ready to be seen, of course).

Put your shoes on before your gown -- it can be cumbersome to find your feet in a bevy of frills and layers, and it will be easier to fasten and adjust your gown if it is draped the right distance from the floor.

Keep your dress hanging with the bodice stuffing in place and covered with a white sheet until the moment you’re ready to put it on.

Press any wrinkles with a cool, dry iron using a white pressing cloth; you should only use a steamer for a gown that is made of tulle.

If you dress at home, minimize wrinkles during the ride to the ceremony by carefully lifting your dress as you step into the car, holding it out by the side seams so any wrinkles will get lost in the skirt as it falls back into place. In the car, gently push as much fabric as possible to the side so you sit only on the smallest area necessary. Sheaths or straight dresses should be smoothed down before and after you sit to minimize wrinkles. If you will dress at the ceremony site, carry your gown (with bodice stuffing intact) covered in plastic and placed inside a garment bag -- the plastic should be used only for transporting; if left on long term it can cause fabric to yellow. car’s back door, and spread the gown out along the back seat. Have an emergency kit on hand for any snafus include aspirin, needle and thread, safety pins, double sided tape, glue, scissors and extra hosiery

Tips for the morning of your big day!

1

Take time to yourself by handing off last minute tasks to bridesmaids.

Use this time to relax by stretching or taking a bath. Eat a hearty breakfast.

3

Schedule extra time for your hair and make-up appointment. Give yourself a few hours before the ceremony to do your own private primping.

2

Wash your hair and face with care.

Make sure you have all needed supplies before heading over to the dressing site. Be sure you have undergarments packed. Bring a bridal emergency kit that's stocked with sewing essentials and a first aid kit.

4

Enlist the help of bridesmaids when it's time to put on your wedding gown.

Attendants can help your hair and make-up stay pristine as you dress.

Enjoy a sip of celebratory champagne or two with your bridal party as you all finish primping for the ceremony.

42 WEDDING BELLE • Spring

belle

1. A beautiful girl or woman 2. The most attractive or admired girl or woman at a place, function, etc. (esp in the phrase the belle of the ball)

Belle

12 WINTER

BRIDAL BOUQUETS

DRESSING FOR THE OCCASION Tips from the Pros

HOT NEW

Venue Locations

3

CARIBBEAN

HONEYMOON

41 DIAMONDS A guys guide to engagement rings

summer 2012

CONTENTS 55

97

DIAMONDS on DIAMONDS

89 39 71

85

41

FEATURE WEDDING RINGS

122

Popular ring picks for 2012. Shapes, diamonds, and a special issue on yellow gold engagement rings.

25

78

HOT NEW CAKE TRENDS

Picking wedding cake at the right location can save you a lot of money. Find style you like here.

97

12 WINTER BRIDAL BOUQUETS Winter bridal bouquets can be very beautiful when you match the season, search our collection.

BRIDAL PARTY 12 23

Bridesmaid dresses Where to shop

BOUQUET 45 56

Seasonal bouquets Florists advice

HONEYMOON

72 Top getaways 81 Popular resort locations

DRESS

92 Dress for your body 14 Fabric and more

CAKE

46 Popular flavors 88 2012 Top styles

{5 BOUQUETS}

5

SUMMER

2

1

4 4

3 1 Mixed Pink Different shades of pink roses mixed with green will make your bouquet pop!

2 Sweet Pea Falling flower sweet pea bouquet will make a statement at your wedding.

3 White Roses White long stemmed roses mixed with succulents is unique and simple.

4 Monochromatic An assortment of daisy, lily and roses is an excellent combination.

5 Fusha Make a bold statement by repeating the same flower over and over.

1 google.com 2 greenweddingshoes.com 3 bestflowerpictures.com 4 pinterest.com 5 Ruffled.com

1 WEDDING BELLE • Spring 2012

5

2 WEDDING BELLE • Spring 2012

{3 HONEYMOON} CARIBBEAN

3 WEDDING BELLE • Spring 2012

ACCORDING TO NEWSTRAVEL. COM THE TOP THREE BEST HONEYMOON LOCATIONS http://travel.usnews.com Photography: google.com

1

1

}

Cayman Islands The islands that make up the Cayman Islands (Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac) are surrounded by gorgeous, clear water, making them a diving hot spot. They also have a culture of politesse, which makes visitors feel safe and at home.

Best for: Couples who appreciate high-end resorts and the high-stakes adventure of wall diving off waterfalls.

Jamaica Here’s no better place for a laid-back honeymoon, where you’ll listen to hip swaying music at every turn, than Jamaica the birthplace of reggae.

2 Highlight: Scuba divers love the Sunken City of Atlantis, where a local artist is constructing a below-the-surface city with sculptures cast

Best for: Music fans. Bob Marley lovers can hop on Chukka Caribbean Adventures’ Zion bus tour, which takes you through the countryside of St. Ann, the music legend’s home parish is Jamaica.

3

3

Dominican Republic Friendly people, a vibrant culture, miles of beaches and affordable resorts all attract visitors to the bustling, Spanish-flavored Dominican Republic.

Best for: Couples who crave adventure in the sun. You can hike 10,000-foot peaks, windsurf in terrific cruising grounds, scout for humpback whales, snorkel and scuba dive with a kaleidoscopic array of fish and bike through the fecund countryside.

Not for: Haute cuisine. Chicken dinners with sides of rice and fried plantains are the norm.

Your best bet is to choose the grilled fish more than likely, it’s just off the boat.

Images credited to google.com, text http://www.bridalguide.com

4 WEDDING BELLE • Spring 2012

DIAMONDS on DIAMONDS

A GUYS GUIDE TO THE PERFECT DIAMOND

D

espite objections from all of your guy friends, you’ve decided to take the plunge and get engaged but are drawing a blank on how to proceed on the whole “buy that one really expensive piece of jewelry that shows your eternal love and desire to spend your life next to her get it wrong and she’ll judge you for years” purchase. No pressure, because we’ve got your back when it comes to picking out the perfect ring in terms of cut, clarity, and color.

Q&A

A GUYS GUIDE TO THE PERFECT DIAMOND

Q: How to choose a diamond

Q: How to choose a she

Q: How to match her personality

A:

A:

A: Another suggestion is to simple know the

she will love

Discovering what kind of ring she likes can be a challenge if you want to keep your proposal a secret. We’ll give you a list of all the points you’ll need to know before you begin shopping, as well as some secret methods for discovering her ring size as well as her taste in engagement rings.

Q: How to decide on the cut A:

There is only one way to find out what she wants in this regard -- ask her. But if you’re sneaky, you can find out by having her best friend ask her discreetly and tell you. Either way, you should definitely find out about this before you buy...because some women are very attached to certain diamond shapes.

If you like to live dangerously, you could pick one of the most popular shapes to increase your odds of picking her favorite.

The most popular shapes in our experience are: Round and Princess.

7 WEDDING BELLE • Spring 2012

color of a diamond

The color of diamonds varies from colorless (most rare and precious) to many shades of yellow (less rare). Slight tints of yellow make a diamond less rare, but some people prefer the personality it gives a stone of good make and clarity.

If you want perfection regardless of cost -go for D color. If you want excellent quality and beauty -- go for E or F colors (still colorless to any eye)

Q: How to find a quality diamond A:

Every diamond has some internal or external “flaws,” but you should decide based on how much they are visible and how much that means to you. Usually, flawless to the naked eye (SI-1 or better) is quite sufficient for anyone concerned about beauty but not wanting to pay extra for rarity you can’t see. If you want perfection regardless of cost -- go for Flawless(very rare and expensive but possibly the only grade you will always be proud to own)

woman you’re with. Does she like traditional things or contemporary designs? Is she a flashy dresser, or does she take a more modest approach to fashion? Does she usually wear silver-colored jewelry or pieces made of yellow gold?

Text: weddingknot.com Photography: google.com

Branscom Square [ $2750.00 ]

Avie Band [ $1385.00 ]

Ava Diamond

[ $2558.00 ]

8 WEDDING BELLE • Spring 2012

belle

1. A beautiful girl or woman 2. The most attractive or admired girl or woman at a place, function, etc. (esp in the phrase the belle of the ball)

0:00 AM

Belle

0:00 AM

0:00 AM

CONTENTS Ring Shop

{5BOUQUETS} SUMMER

Bouquets

Pink Bouquet

Reception Tips

41 DIAMONDS CARIBBEAN 3 HONEYMOON

0:00 AM

SUMMER

BOUQUETS

Pink Bouquet Mixture of pink flowers

combined with pink foliage. One of a kind wedding bouquet!

DIAMONDS on DIAMONDS

Pink Bouquet

Pink Bouquet

Sweet Pea

0:00 AM

0:00 AM

SUMMER

SUMMER

Sweet Pea Falling flower bouquet with

White Roses White long stemmed roses

BOUQUETS

a mixture of flowers including sweet peas will make a beautiful statement at your wedding.

BOUQUETS

mixed with green, simple and classic.

0:00 AM

SUMMER

BOUQUETS

0:00 AM

0:00 AM

SUMMER

{3 HONEYMOON}

BOUQUETS

CARIBBEAN

Jamaica

Fusha Make a bold statement by

repeating the same flower over and over. This beautiful flower will make a statement at your wedding.

0:00 AM

Dominican Republic

Monochromatic Use white roses mixed with white lily’s to create a classy wedding bouquet.

0:00 AM

Cayman Islands

0:00 AM

HONEYMOON

CARIBBEAN

HONEYMOON

CARIBBEAN

Jamaica

Dominican Republic

Cayman Islands

CARIBBEAN

Here’s no better place for a laid-back honeymoon, where you’ll listen to hip-swaying music at every turn, than Jamaica—the birthplace of reggae.

Best for: Music fans. Bob Marley lovers can hop on Chukka Caribbean Adventures’ Zion bus tour, which takes you through the countryside of St. Ann, the music legend’s home parish. Or, you can take a snorkeling cruise in Montego Bay’s

Friendly people, a vibrant culture, miles of beaches and affordable resorts all attract visitors to the bustling, Spanish-flavored Dominican Republic.

Best for: Couples who crave adventure in the sun. You can hike 10,000-foot peaks, windsurf in terrific cruising grounds, scout for humpback whales, snorkel and scuba dive with a kaleidoscopic array of fish and bike through the fecund countryside.

HONEYMOON

The islands that make up the Cayman Islands (Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac) are surrounded by gorgeous, clear water, making them a diving hot spot. They also have a culture of politesse, which makes visitors feel safe and at home.

Best for: Couples who appreciate high-end resorts and the highstakes adventure of wall diving.

Not for: Those who want to explore local villages for exotic cultural

0:00 AM

0:00 AM

Q&A

Q: How to choose a diamond she will love forever

DIAMONDS on DIAMONDS

A:

Discovering what kind of ring she likes can be a challenge if you want to keep your proposal a secret. We’ll give you a list of all the points you’ll need to know before you begin shopping, as well as some secret methods for discovering her ring size as well as her taste in

0:00 AM

0:00 AM

Q: How to choose

Q: How to find a quality

A:

A:

diamond for your wallet

a color of diamond

The color of diamonds varies from colorless (most rare and precious) to many shades of yellow (less rare).

Slight tints of yellow make a diamond less rare, but some people prefer the personality it gives a stone of good make.

If you want perfection regardless of cost -- go for D color. If you want excellent quality and beauty -- go for E or F colors (still colorless to any eye)

Every diamond has some internal or external “flaws,” but you should decide based on how much they are visible and how much that means to you.

Usually, flawless to the naked eye (SI-1 or better) is quite sufficient for anyone concerned about beauty but not wanting to pay extra for rarity you can’t see. If you want perfection regardless of cost -- go for Flawless(very rare and expensive but possibly the only grade you will always be proud to own)

0:00 AM

Q: How to decide

on the cut

A:

There is only one way to find out what she wants in this regard -- ask her. But if you’re sneaky, you can find out by having her best friend ask her discreetly and tell you. Either way, you should definitely find out about this before you buy...because some women are very attached to certain diamond shapes. If you want perfection regardless of cost -- go for D color. If you want excellent quality and beauty -- go for E or F colors (still colorless to

0:00 AM

Q: How to match

her personality best

A: Another suggestion is to simple

know the woman you’re with.

Does she like traditional things or contemporary designs? Is she a flashy dresser, or does she take a more modest approach to fashion? Does she usually wear silver-colored jewelry or pieces made of yellow gold? If you want perfection regardless of cost -- go for D color. If you want excellent quality and beauty -- go for E or F colors (still colorless to any eye)