5 minute read
Bridal Showers
Abridal shower is a party to outfit the engaged couple’s new home, and gives friends and family a chance to spend time with the bride before she starts her married life. Here are the Who, Whats and Whens... WHO HOSTS? Friends of the bride who are in the wedding party, another couple or even a male friend. The bride’s mother, sister or close relatives of the groom’s usually do not host to avoid the appearance of asking for gifts. They may help finance or organize however. WHO’S INVITED: Usually only those who will be invited to the wedding, with the exception of office or club showers. Traditional all-women showers include guests from the bride’s and groom’s families, but co-ed showers are popular as well. WHEN IS IT HELD? At least two weeks before the wedding. Mail invitations at least two weeks in advance of the shower date. A post wedding shower may even be more convenient. WHAT HAPPENS: Gifts are the primary focus. Be sure to have someone on hand to help record gifts (for thank you notes). Ribbons and bows may be collected for practice bouquets for the rehearsal ceremony. Themes make the party special and can vary from a honeymoon theme, to gardening, cooking, movies, patio party, picnic or hobby themes. a
www.PRBTBoutique.com
WHAT’S NEW, WHAT’S FUN!
Co-ed showers are growing in popularity and can ease the tension as the bridal party not only carries out their duties as attendants, but also has to get to know the other bridal attendants. Break the ice early with a picnic, barbecue, ski weekend, beach party, or even a scavenger hunt. The better your bridal party knows each other, the more fun they’ll have on your wedding day. Often the shower is a time when friends from all stages of the bride’s life meet for the first time. Make it a sharing time when each of her friends can share their fondest memories of the friendship they’ve shared. Have each shower guest bring a favorite photo of a time or event they shared with the bride and compile them in a special scrapbook as a heartfelt gift for her. a KISS-PROOF, SMUDGE-PROOF
Look flawless from the first look to the last dance
Guaranteed to leave no lip color on the groom, your wedding dress, your teeth, or your wine glass BRIDES & THE PARTY NEED SENEGENCE
by Christina Sweat-Proof, LongWearing Makeup No lead, No wax, No GMOs Gluten-Free, Vegan Cruelty-Free
FreedomKisses1@gmail.com
How a qualified tailoress or alterations specialist will make the difference.
Few brides fit into general sizes exactly, most will need a few alterations for a perfect fit. A perfect fit assures
ACCESSORIZING
If you are planning a theme wedding, your gown may need special features or accessothat you, the bride, look amazing. It also assures that you will be comfortable on this joyful day!
PERFECT FIT:
You are unique and so is your shape. On this all important day your gown will reflect your style, your personality, and your attention to detail. A dress that is tailored to fit you perfectly will not only provide comfort and confidence, but will also present you in the best possible way. Learn here about taking your gown from “off-the-rack” to “custom-fit.”
UNIQUE DETAILS
Just as important as a perfect fitting gown, are the accessories and details you add to make it uniquely yours. Add a lace jacket for a formal ceremony, and if you wish, remove it for the festivities of the reception. Add a splash of color with a beautifully embellished sash or satin ribbon. Rhinestone appliqués or belts provide a touch of elegance. Adding extra details show off your unique personality.
REDESIGN
Maybe you want to wear your Mother’s wedding gown. Chances are it is quite outdated but the sentimental value of being able to wear it can be very special. The key to successful restyling is the ability to update the dress to be modern and well-fitting, yet retain the character and appeal of the vintage style. Not all seamstresses will offer redesign services, speak to several about your ideas and find one who is enthusiastic and capable of making the changes you desire. ries to reflect the theme. Discuss this early on with your alterations specialist. Extra crinoline skirts may be needed to fill out a ball gown. Coordinating special jewelry, lavish veils, extraordinary headpieces, and other accessories will add the details to make you a beautiful and unique bride.
THE ALTERATION PROCESS
• First appointment and fitting should be set up 3 – 6 months before wedding date. Several fittings may be necessary, especially if redesigning. • It’s helpful to have your shoes for the first fitting. • Most dresses have a lot of inner structure so bras are often not necessary. Your seamstress can determine at the first fitting whether you need a bra or have pads sewn into the dress. • If you want to bustle your dress for the reception, this will require the services of a seamstress. • Once your alterations are complete, your dress will most likely need pressing and steaming. Ask your tailor whether pressing is offered as part of their alteration service. • Ask for an estimate before work begins.
Alterations can run between $250-$500 or more.
AFTER THE CEREMONY
Consider how to keep and store your gown. If you decide to have it cleaned, take it to a professional cleaner with experience and training in the special care needed for wedding gowns. Some bridal
Celebrating 30 Years!
Always the Best in Service and Selection
shops offer a service of sending your dress to a gown specialist for you. Usually this cleaning process includes gown preservation and packaging your dress in acid free paper and box to protect it for years to come. Another way to create a family heirloom for generations to come is by using your satin and lace for a gorgeous Christening gown. A seamstress with garment construction experience could design and make this special family heirloom. a
