How to Dress Up a Simple Wedding Dress!

     The thought of buying a simple wedding gown used off Ebay or even brand new, is enough to some brides cringe; but let's face it, sometimes options grow more narrow and we're forced to explore all our options.

I want to open your minds and maybe spark some creativity in today's modern bride. We live in a new era for weddings, because the rules of tradition and etiquette have come face-to-face with today's rebellious DIY brides. These rebellious brides have off-set the rules and opened our minds to new possibilities - making the way for brides who wish to show-off their creativity!

Today I want to show you a very simple gown that I actually found on Ebay recently. This gown is going for $119. Honestly, would YOU buy it? Could you envision wearing this for your wedding day?

Well, what if I told you this gown was designed by J. Crew? Suddenly a light bulb goes off in your head, "Hey, that's a good designer with quality clothes!" What if I gave your some details?


"Crafted of floaty silk chiffon with a delicate crinkled texture, it features a fitted crossover bodice with shirring at the shoulders and bust and a flattering wide waistband. "

Oooo! Now, allow me to show you an actual picture from the designer:

SOPHIA: This gown is currently on clearance for $298 on J.Crew 

If you're not quite convinced, let's explore a few more options.

What if we added some more sparkle?

 

some vintage class?

Or pure romance - showing off your girly side?

 

It's amazing what a few embellishments will do to an outfit - or a wedding gown! So, before you close the door on simplicity, stretch the imagination.

Blush in the Nude - Inspiration boards

Through the pages of fashion, my inspiration was awakened by the simplicity of blush and nude colors for this up-coming spring season. 

For the fashion-forward bride, keep your eyes open for sheer fabrics, peek-a-boos with lace and slits, ballerina styles, new necklines, and sleeves! Thank you, Sarah Burton, for bringing this timeless classic back!

White has runaway into the history pages and has been replaced with sheer elegance. 

golden blush

inspiration board

forbidden love

inspiration board

Country Twilight inspiration board

A Carter Baby-Shower for Shawntay

What a beautiful baby-shower this turned out to be! I felt so honored to assist in the planning of this special occasion to celebrate the coming arrival of a new baby girl. 

SHOP Etsy

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Scrumptious cupcakes from Toledo's Cake in a Cup were a picturesque centerpiece at the shower. Butterfly girls escorted and welcomed guests as they entered the party.

Shawntay herself arriving to her baby shower!

Cherry Coconut and Toffee Crunch - melt-in-your-mouth = yum!

Colorful chinese lanterns decked the hall hanging from softly glowing lanterns. 

Made by a guest, these delightful cake pops were literally the BEST cake pops I have ever tried! *****!

Guest enjoyed getting sugar-buzzed on sparkling strawberry lemonade! Who can resist pink?? 

Guests played multiple games and enjoyed engaging in conversations and making new friends!

Butterflies buzzed to bring Shawntay her baby gifts - such adorable little girl clothes! 

The party had not started until Shawntay's brother arrived! Full of animation and excitement! 

What a sweet brother to such a beautiful sister. 

 Shawntay and her oldest daughter.

At the end of the party, Shawntay and her family gathered around for a balloon release - giving baby "butterfly kisses."

One hot Mama!

~*~

October: "A few of my Favorite Things"

   These are a few of my favorite things...

   Have you caught the FEATHERfetish? I seem to see them everywhere nowadays and am completely addicted! They definitely accent a women's natural beauty; however, this only can be accomplished in the wisdom of choosing the correct color. What colors brings out your inward beauty?

 Are you Persuasively Eclectic?               or                 Dramatically Flamboyant?

  Naturally in one with Nature?               or                 A Classic Beauty?

Wickedly Devine?               or                 Sublimely Seraphic?

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SHOP BANDO

 These Heart Shoe Clips just make my heart flutter!

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SHOP BANDO

 I would have L.O.V.E.D. a BirchBox when I planned my own wedding. What a lovely idea, to try all the greatest in beauty for only $10 a month! If you are a bride or know someone getting married, this lovely "Here Comes the Bride" box (pictured to the right) is only $55 and would make an elegant gift!

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SHOP BirchBox

Another October favorite, is the flower girl tutu. Don't you just want to give her some love? This is a winner for some too-too cute pictures!

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SHOP Etsy

This concludes my blog post for a few of my favorite things, thank you for sharing the love!

Rethink Balloons at the Wedding

 

I'll admit, my first impression of balloons mingling at weddings wasn't highly thought of, but when Martha Stewart's balloon issue first came out - I couldn't resist squealing, 

"Oh my gosh - how cuuuute!" 

Perhaps it's the colors or the bit of cheerfulness and fun they bring, either way I am officially infatuated with this whimsical idea! These balloons are simply delightful...

Picturesque! This idea was found in Martha Stewart's wedding magazine. 

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I love the versatility for any style. 

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Don't you just crave for more?! I am delighted that balloons have been reinvented in such a way so they can join the elegance of a wedding celebration. I look forward to seeing these at future events! ~

“Nobody can be uncheered with a balloon” - Winnie the Pooh

If you are interested in purchasing these for a wedding or other event, I have found excellent service through SWEET SHOP LULU.  

Vintage Cotton: Inspiration Board No.1

I first spotted the cotton theme on Style Me Pretty... and after idolizing this bouquet I couldn't rest until I satisfied my desire for more! I'm in love with the creativity this soft texture has to offer.

Vintage worn furniture is also a trend worth noticing. I myself enjoy garage sales and have purchased my own classic pieces in the past; however, if you are dismayed searching there, antique stores are filled with inspiration! Paired with touches of quality, such as table cards with calligraphy or a display of historic family photography, older furniture can ad so much personality to your wedding story. ~


Blog Love Credits:
Cotton Bouquet: Photo by Melissa Munding. Don't forget to view the entire wedding for more inspiration!
Girl with the Birdcage: Photos by Clayton Austin Found on Blog Green Wedding Shoes
Vintage Dresser:  Found on Blog Kiss the Bride
Cotton Boutonniere: Photography by Jasmine Star Found on Blog Jolie Jolie