Be your Own Makeup Artist: Beauty Bites – Part 1

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Thinking about having a vineyard wedding or a small rustic wedding with just about 15-20 guests? Then why pay $350 for a makeup artist when you can make yourself look beautiful? Instead of pampering yourself by visiting a spa to feel relaxed and refreshed or buy yourself a nice pair of designer footwear. This is a great idea, as, it’s cheaper plus no one knows your features better than you. Also, you wouldn’t want your makeup artist following you to your wedding venue! With that said, being responsible for your own makeup on one of the most photographed days of your life can be intimidating. So here are a few tips from us for your very own special day!

Remember – Play up your makeup for photos!

  • For brides getting married in warmer climates, consider using as many oil-free products as possible: primer/moisturizer. Cleanse and moisturize properly before applying the primer. This is very important as it’ll make your make up go smoother and last much longer. You’re going to have a long day ahead of you, and you want your makeup to last you all day.
  • If you’re doing your own makeup, practice and take pictures before the big day. Start with less because it is easier to add more if you need it, rather than having to remove excess makeup which can get messy.
  • Always apply your foundation with a sponge or a brush. Never use your fingers as bacteria and dirt can be left behind. If you use a sponge, use by stippling the sponge, not swiping it across the skin. This gives your foundation a more natural look and blends it more evenly into the skin.
  • Your moisturizer, primer, and foundation are going to hide imperfections such as dark spots or uneven skin tone.
  • Add a creamy concealer. This may not be oil-free as it might get dry and cakey throughout the day.
  • Give your face a sharper look by contouring and highlighting your cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead.

For further tips and complete makeup look, read “Beauty Bites- Part 2” on our website.

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal, Paramus, NJ.

 

Fairy Tale Romance Trend

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Wedding Gowns Trends

Here is the ultimate guide to your wedding dress/gown shopping next season. The Wedding Dress Collection is all about illusion necklines, exposed backs and open décolleté, revealing a tantalizing amount of bare skin. Four major themes were seen at the New York fashion week this year. This article consists of the first theme:

Fairy tale Romance (Ball Gown) – The Cinderella gown is a gorgeous work of art created with the classic fairy-tale in mind. This silhouette is a perfect fit to be a princess for the most perfect evening. Designers focused on delicate bodices, dramatically cut to the waist.

Design Details– Sheer cutouts with deep necklines and backs discreetly expose a peek of skin.

Materials and Embellishments – Beautiful and delicate elements added on the backs such as buttons, sequences and embellishments on these satin, tulle and lace dresses look stunning and give it a glamorous and romantic look. And when paired with long sleeves, these details are going to give an elegant and seductive look.

This season sees sweeping ball gowns enhanced by 3D applications and illusion embellishments – available at our store.

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal, Paramus, New Jersey.

Modern Purity Wedding Trend

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Wedding Gowns Trend

The second theme seen on the runways this year was Modern Purity.

Delicate, transparent and sheer sheath wedding dresses appeared in understated patterned silk and lace. Perfect for the elegant bride, these shoulders are revealed with contrasting lace. It’s the perfect silhouette for the tall and lean bride.

The wedding dresses featured graphic lace over ivory Imperial crepe. Their sweetheart neckline is accented perfectly with sexy spaghetti straps. The back zips up under pearl buttons and flows perfectly into a sleek chapel train.

Halter tops complete an elegant, embellished gown. Silk dresses were also seen covered in fine sequins and lurex threads. Soft silk satins drape around the female form for an understated look. What more would you want? Dresses available at our store in charmeuse, lace, organza, satin and silk.

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal, Paramus, New Jersey.

Hollywood Style – S/S 2017 Trend Part 3

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Wedding Gowns Trend S/S 2017

Read Part 1 & 2 first.

The Third theme seen on the runways this year was Hollywood Style.

Mermaid and Trumpet shapes are given the Hollywood treatment with layers of froth tulle and silk, neatly cut and billowing from under the thigh to accentuate the female form.

Exposed shoulders are sculpted with discreet beaded details and dresses subtly slashed and covered in flowers and petals.

Handcrafted materials are key for this trend with intricately embellished 3D elements and delicate beading on sheer wisps of silk.

We have wedding dresses that have off-the-shoulder embroidered lace appliqués, tulle and organza over satin trumpet gowns with illusion lace cap sleeves, deep sweetheart neckline, and illusion lace low back bodice with crystal button closures. Give us a call and come visit our store to see our collection.

Pronovias prosa David-Tutera--Style-Lita-116224 pronovias tibet

Left to right – Pronovias Prosa, David Tutera 116224 and Pronovias Tibet

Available in ivory, off white and champagne lace and tulle.

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal, Paramus, New Jersey.

Live Stream Your Entire Wedding

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Guests attending your wedding over the internet: the future is HERE.

Skype is so popular nowadays, that there’s a whole tag archive for it. Skype is a great option to stream your entire wedding as it’s free for one-to-one video calls. All you need is Wi-Fi. If you upgrade, you can even have a conference call for up to 10 computers. Like Skype, Google Hangouts on Air is free; unlike Skype, you don’t need to upgrade to have conference calls with multiple computers. You can set the event to public, private, or unlisted. If you set it to the public, anyone can watch your stream and if you set it to private, you have to manually invite anyone you want to watch, and those people need to have a Google account.

If you have an iPad or iPhone, you can also think of setting up a video call to another Apple FaceTime user. FaceTime is one-to-one only. Use an iPhone or an iPad over a laptop,  as you can choose to use the front or back cameras while FaceTiming, and switch back and forth between the calls.

There’s also Livestream, that will enable you to stream your video in HD. You can’t make your event private if you’re using the free plan.

Tip: Figure out a good angle to film from or consider appointing someone to keep an eye on the stream during the ceremony. Make sure your virtual attendees know how to get to the page where you’ll be streaming the wedding. Inform them! One could also record the entire ceremony and then share the link with friends who couldn’t attend in an email or Facebook update. Or, if you have a blog, you could just post it up there.

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal, Paramus, NJ.

Bachelorette Party Ideas

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Here’s everything you need to know to throw your best friend the ultimate send-off to singlehood.

There are so many ways to have an unforgettable girls’ getaway. Plan a weekend away or stay local and plan an amazing night out on the town. But remember to do something which can make it memorable and most importantly, having as much fun as possible.

If you want to relax, look and feel refreshed, think about attending a spa and pampering yourself with spa services like massages and facials! Continue the spa-like feeling with goody bags for each party attendee filled with slippers, sleep masks, and nail files. Or why not hire a photographer to take gorgeous photos of all of you? Before the photographer arrives, hit up a salon for blowouts, give each other makeovers, and get dressed in your best outfit! Scout out a couple of fun locations and get a few fun props before the shoot so you get the most out of your time with the photographer.

No one said a bachelorette party has to be at night. If you’re more of a day-like person, meet at your favorite brunch place for good food, unlimited mimosas, and fun conversation. Call ahead to make a reservation for a large table or back area so you’re guaranteed to get in at a reasonable time! Don’t want to go out? Host brunch at your place! Make waffles, bacon, fruit salad, and have an omelette station set up. You girls can also put on your cutest bikinis, get some fun sunglasses, and party by the pool! Pick up some pool-friendly plastic cups or can coolers to fit your theme, and get ready to work on your tan. Don’t forget to take some time out of the day to jump in! One doesn’t also always have to have a destination. Have your party in a limo while it takes you where ever you’d like. Bring champagne and feel like a star as you drive around your town. I recommend going bar hopping or even driving through your favorite fast food joint!

Think out of the box! Major cities and resort areas tend to be great for bachelorettes since they offer a wide array of activity options. Plan a destination bachelorette party.  Visit Nashville, Tennessee, for its awesome country music venues, delish Southern food (the area around Broadway, the main drag, has everything you could ever need); Austin, Texas, for its booming food cart scene, live music of every variety and close access to lakes and vineyards if you want to mix things up; and Charleston, South Carolina, for its picturesque beaches, gorgeous architecture and lively nightlife. If you want to keep the logistics to a minimum, consider booking an all-inclusive resort or a cruise, so you won’t have to worry about pricing out different restaurants and activities.

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal, Paramus, NJ

 

Wedding Shoe Ideas You’ll Love

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Still need to find your wedding shoes for your big day? Whether you plan to rock a pair of bedazzled stilettos or want to keep your look chic with fabulous flats, here you will be able to start getting inspired with some of our favorite styles!

1. Lace 

Feminine and flirty lace is the perfect finishing detail to a romantic bridal look. If you are looking for a more modernized shoe, try a pair of lace peep-toe heels or booties. Lace heels will go fantastic with any season your wedding happens to fall in.

2. Metallics

Spice up your glam factor and sparkle with chic metallics. Gold and silver metallic heels are sleek and modern, while elevating your style. For the modern bride with a modern gown these shoes are more than ideal.

3. Something Different

Play with unexpected color to show off your fun and vibrant side. Try bold mint or electric blue, this will make a statement and pop in your wedding photos! This shoe is perfect for an outdoor wedding preferably during the spring and summer.

4. Bedazzled 

Looking for that extra wow factor? A little bit of bedazzle will go a long way. A pair of shimmering shoes polishes off an already glamorous gown. Bedazzled shoes will go best with that happily ever after castle venue where your wedding will be held.

5. Cutouts 

Forget glitter and lace- shoes with intricate cutouts, and textured designs will be sure to catch everyone’s eye! These shoes are excellent for a spring or summer wedding because of their breathable cutouts.

6. Fabulous Flats

You can still look gorgeous while wearing a pair of comfy flats. With a limitless selection from sleek, pointed toe, to crochet flats. Having amazing style does not have to come with pain. Finally, fabulous flats are amazing for the bride who is ready to dance the night away on her big day!

Reference:  Pictures credit to Paradox London Shoes (available at Aleana’s Bridal)

 

The Beauty Behind Custom-Made Dresses

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AB Embellishment

Photo: Aleana’s Bridal Custom-Made embellishment 

Have you always imagined yourself on your wedding day in a strapless, flowing, embellished dress, with a 10 foot long train? But can’t afford the $10,000 price tag? At Aleana’s Bridal we make any brides dream dress come to life.  Custom-Made is not only our specialty, but it is also our passion. This is what Aleana’s Bridal is known for.

Photo: The making of Dior’s AW 2011-2012 Haute Couture Collection 

 What is the fascinating history behind couture? Couture is magic, art, and detail all wrapped in one. French dressmakers were the first that became known as the best needleworkers in Europe. At the beginning of the nineteenth-century women from France traveled to the beautiful city of Paris to shop for custom made clothing. They would personally consult the dressmaker, that would offer different styles of evening wear such as gowns, suits, and sleepwear that fit their body and their individual taste.

If you are looking for a one of a kind gown for your special day then custom made is your best match. Aleana’s Bridal uses only the finest fabrics made out of silk, such as organza, chiffon, taffeta, georgette, and satin. The first step to our one-on-one process is to schedule a consultation; during this our talented designer will personally sit down with you to understand your vision.  Through sketching our designer will offer you a few style options that better compliments your body type and enhance your beauty.

Aleana’s Bridal has no limits when it comes to Custom- Made; from intricate beading, stunning European lace, to hand-embellished pieces. Our company does not just stop at bridal gowns we provide Custom-Made Mother of the Bride, Mother of the Groom dresses, veils, and jewelry to complete your overall look.  Our prices are affordable and start at seventeen hundred and up.

Bridal dresses Bergen County NJ

Photos: Aleana’s Bridal Sketch and Design 

Mixing traditional techniques with modern and fresh ideas is one of our many trademarks. The pictures above show one of our beautiful brides who wanted an Elizabeth Taylor inspired wedding gown. On the left-hand side, you see the personalized sketch of her embellished neckline. On the right side, you will see the final hand-done embroidery, using the finest materials.

To perfect the design we create the mock-up that will be modified to achieve the best fit. Fabrics, colors, and embellishments will be finalized to meet your preference. Our goal is to make a dress that will elevate your elegance. Aleana’s Bridal makes dreams come true; if you are looking for one of a kind gown for your special day, please call for a complimentary consultation 201-444-1500.

Bridesmaid Dresses Color Trends

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 Are you on a quest to find bridesmaid dresses? What if I told you that you came to the right place! We’ve put together a list of the trendiest colors to be worn in spring and summer.

 Your bridesmaids don’t have to look similar from every other wedding. In fact almost every bridesmaid has one huge fear, that she will be stuck wearing a hideous dress at her sister or best friend’s wedding! These unique and sophisticated colors will give your bridal party a fresh take and a glow of confidence. This color palette will be sure to make your bridesmaids stand out from every other bridal party.

 This first gorgeous color is blush. Such an elegant shade of pink it is soft and feminine and sometimes seen as lighthearted. This color will look great with ivory bouquets.

Blush bridesmaid

Our next color is Mint this is the perfect color choice to brighten up any wedding with its natural liveliness! This color dress will look great with ivory and peach colored accented bouquets.

 Right now Gray is one of the hottest colors for bridesmaid dresses. Gray in past years has been put on the back burner, but this color has been revived and it looks better than ever! Making sure that your bridal party doesn’t look faded, match up the dresses with a canary yellow bouquet.

gray bridesmaid

Ready to welcome in spring with your fabulous wedding? Try a bold Turquoise bridesmaid dress for your bridal party and white stark bouquets with orange accents; these contrasting colors will really make these shades stand out. This mix of colors will leave an everlasting impression with its bright theme.

blue bridesmaid

If you would like to take on a classic romance theme, champagne color bridesmaid dresses paired with classic ivory bouquets is your match. This spring and summer has plenty of pastel bridesmaid dresses so why not change it up? Whether you are tying the knot in an indoor celebration or a gorgeous outside celebration champagne color will work well with both settings.

Champagne bridesmaid

Reference: http://www.dessy.com

How to maintain your manners: Proper wedding etiquette (Part 4)

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Read Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 first

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So what makes the best manners?  MINDFULNESS.  The best manners come from the mindful person who is very aware of themselves and their surroundings, other people and the environment.

 

Etiquette stems from common courtesy, sense, and social graces, such as: When entering or leaving the room, going into or out of bathrooms, etc., hold the door open for the next person.  Be conscious of staying silent during speeches and announcements and be aware of the alcohol you are consuming and always practice sophisticated self-control.

 

The most important rule of etiquette in attending a wedding event is to enjoy the day in a classy manner and bringing your most lofty, positive energy.  The bride and groom planned this special day in celebration of a jovial affair and took their guests’ comfort and entertainment into heavy consideration.  Be respectful, be polite and be on your way to being a stellar guest…one who contributes to the memories being made, and to the pages in the storybook that makes the bride’s dreams complete.

And don’t forget to bring the most important thing along with you, wrapped up in your own aura and expanded into those of others around you: L O V E.