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Be your Own Makeup Artist: Beauty Bites – Part 2

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Read “Beauty Bites- Part 1” first on how to begin making yourself look absolutely pretty!

Continued…

  • For a natural makeup look, try a cream blush. This gives a healthy and fresh look. If you want more staying power, try layering a powder blush on top of it.
  • You can know where to place your blush just by smiling. By smiling, the apple of your cheeks pop out. Place your brush right there and blend into your temple.
  • A big step that some women forget when they do their makeup, something you will especially want to do on your wedding day, is to use a brow pencil to fill in your eyebrows. It really frames your eye. Remember to go a shade or two lighter than your own natural eyebrow color.
  • Focus darker eye shadow on the outside of eyes, moving lighter and brighter as you move in. You want your eyes to look big and beautiful. Use a shimmer powder in the inner corners of your eyes by suing a brush with a smaller head.
  • The best way to curl your lashes is to curl at the root of your lash, at the middle and at the tip. You don’t need to clamp down with the curler, just squeeze lightly.
  • ALWAYS curl your lashes first, do a coat of waterproof mascara (if you know you’re going to cry) and then apply the fake lashes.
  • I recommend using false lashes for all brides to make your eyes look big and captivating. If you’re going for a full-on sexy or glamorous look, use a full lash strip. However, for a more subtle look, go for individual lashes. Wait until the glue dries, use your eye lash curler again, and, finally, apply another coat of mascara.
  • Put lip balm on your lips before gloss or lipstick so they’re not dry or flaky. I suggest you outline your lip with a lip pencil first and then fill your entire lip with the same lip pencil. Using a lip pencil will hold the color longer.
  • Carry a few touch up products in your bag such as the lip pencil or gloss. The use of a good primer will keep your foundation and everything else in place.

TIP : Aim to look like yourself – just enhanced.

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

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.

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

 

Outrageous Wedding Facts From Around The World

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Have you ever wondered about the world’s longest wedding gown train? Or how about the most expensive wedding in history? We rounded up some of our favorite wedding facts from across the world ranging from the most outrageous to crazy and fun.

1. The world’s longest wedding gown train. 

 Dressmakers in China recently created this nearly three-mile-long train for a bride named Jing-Mei. Reports from photo agency ImagineChina: the gown weighs 120 pounds and took more than $6,500 to make!

2. A Cake Fit for a Queen!

Let’s just say this wedding cake suits best for a Queen and who better than Queen Victoria. Her wedding cake weighed a whopping 300 pounds!

3. The most expensive modern day wedding.

In the priciest modern-day wedding to date, the prince of Abu Dhabi has outdone them all. He had a 20,000-seat stadium specially built for his seven-day wedding to Princess Salama in 1981. This wedding in total cost  $100 million.

4. Las Vegas is the leading wedding destination with an average of 115,000 weddings a year.

Looking to elope? No problem, because Las Vegas has got you covered, with it being the leading destination for couples to get married.

5. Most Expensive Celebrity Engagement Ring. 

Look at that rock! Richard Burton did not mess around when he made Elizabeth Taylor his fiancé, not only because they got married twice but because of this breathtaking engagement ring. The estimated worth of this ring is 8.8 million dollars and has 33.19 carats!

6. Underwater wedding? Why not? 

Talk about incredible! On February 14, 2001, the Trang Underwater Wedding Ceremony in Thailand made it to the Guinness Book of World Records for the “Most number of couples to be married underwater.” On that day, 34 couples from 22 countries exchanged wedding vows 10 meters (32.8 ft.) underwater.

7. Then and Now. 

Welcome to Buckingham Palace! Where William and Kate stepped out onto the balcony on their wedding date April 29, 2011 to recreate a kiss made famous by Charles and Diana in 1981.

8.  If you thought your bridal party was big… wait until you see this! 

Couple sets World Record with 126 Bridesmaids, 25 best men, 20 pageboys and 23 flowers girls. The previous record was 96 bridesmaids at a wedding in Thailand.

9. The tradition from the ancient Greeks and Romans. 

Brides traditionally wore veils on their wedding day because the original thought stemmed from the ancient Greeks and Romans, which believed that the veil protected her from “evil spirits.”

10. Let’s end on a sweet note! 

A German study found that men who kiss their wives before leaving for work live longer, get into less car accidents, and have a higher income than married men who don’t. The reasons behind why this is possible are because kissers begin the day with a positive attitude.  It is believed that those who don’t experience this go out of the house with a lack of confidence.

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

Mother of the Bride Dress Shopping: The Ultimate Guide

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Your daughter is going to look drop dead gorgeous on her big day—that’s a given. Now let’s focus on you! Similar to your daughter you have dreamed of this day for a long time as well. In past years, “mother of the bride” has meant frumpy gowns and dress suits. With many modern moms keeping up with the latest fashion trends, this is no longer. There are loads of options for Mother of the Bride gowns at Aleana’s Bridal and we are about to show you a few of our best!

If you prefer a soft and sophisticated look this chic A-line gown is perfection! With lace cap sleeves and an intricate hand beaded bodice that cleverly disguises your waistline, with its beautifully ruched chiffon empire waist. This dress is one of our absolute favorites because it can be worn in any season.

Is your daughter having an outdoors spring or summer wedding? This gown is your best match with its light chiffon fabric, and wide lace shoulder straps. Not to mention its moveable draping style makes for a fabulous night of dancing. If you would like to highlight your arms and collar bone this dress is more than ideal.

Looking for that extra glam-look? This exquisite gown is made out of taffeta which is more structured. Featuring hand-beaded appliques with a matching embroidered bolero to cover your arms while still maintaining style. If the wedding is in the fall or winter this is flawless with its fantastic color and elegant draped skirt.

 Have you always pictured yourself at your daughter’s wedding looking absolutely stunning? If so, this is your dress. Being one of our best-selling dresses for the Mother-of-the-Bride at our store this chiffon A-line gown has never disappointed. With its hand beaded lace bodice featuring an asymmetrical waist and illusion keyhole back.

Are you searching for a more modest and elegant look? Ultimately this gown is made just for that! With its lace elbow-length sleeves along with its side gathered skirt and sweep train. A touch of hand-beaded motif on the dropped waistline gives this gown the perfect touch. Light chiffon fabric typically calls for a spring or summer wedding but this can also be versatile with a fall or winter wedding as well.

Embrace your curves! If you have a gorgeous hourglass figure highlight that asset with this softly draped gown. Elegant hand-beaded elbow-length sleeves, paired with a side draped skirt which softens the hips. Suitable for any fashion forward Mother of the Bride.

Don’t get discouraged if you are petite! That just means you have to explore what works the best for your body. We suggest a highwasited gown with lighter beading to highlight your smaller frame. This number is made with mainly lace and tulle, featuring a beautiful slight cap sleeve, and a crisscross sweetheart bodice.

Having difficulty finding a gown that suits your style or personality? If so, Custom-Made is always an option here at Aleana’s Bridal.

To schedule a consultation call us at: 201-444-1500.

Reference: Montage by Mon Cheri 

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 for a purchase at Aleana’s Bridal. 

How to have a Winter Wedding (Part 3)

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

Read Part 1 and Part 2 first

Candles create a natural glow, but sometimes this isn’t always enough to keeping the ambiance well lit.  Consequently, you should consider lamps or spotlights decoratively & tastefully placed at each table.  You won’t want anyone tripping over them selves, unable to see the guestbook to sign it…and most importantly, you’ll want your photos to look their best…and this won’t be done in the dark!

 

 Winter warm…& Fuzzies

Make wedding guests feel comfortable indoors and out…from before they even arrive until long into the night.  Offer warm transportation for them from the airport or hotel to your venue.  Make sure your venue location is accessible even if the weather turns bad and has good ventilation to keep the room warm (not stuffy!).  That intimacy and warmth you create in your space should extend to the outdoors, as well.  Provide portable heaters to go outside for those who want to escape for a breath of fresh air, check out the landscape, and/or for smokers.  You can even take it generously further by providing blankets by the doors to take for those who are heading outside.

 

Cappuccino or Hot Chocolate Bar:  Create a bar with a warm, cute touch…including delicious cookies, hot cocoa, cappuccino, & other hot drinks for either the whole night, or just as a late-night station.  This is a great alternative (and money saver) as it alleviates stress on the actual liquor bar!  If you did your job making guests feel warm enough, they won’t be inclined to become dependent on the booze buzz for the rush of warmth they get on a cold, tavern night at the bar back home.

Heated Menu:  Not literally…but consider cold-weather friendly foods and comforting dishes to serve on your wedding menu: meats or fish like a baked tilapia, minestrone or fennel potato leek soup, sweet potatoes, and pureed parsnips.

 

Winter-wonderland Wardrobe

You might want to consider having a wedding dress that will keep you warm with silk satin or a just heavier fabric in general, one with thick-laced sleeves, or a high collar.  You can always ditch the white dress for a stand-out color: blush pink, bold red, icy blue, or slick silver, which will look lusciously lovely against a white, snowy backdrop.

Winter Glam Glow: The bright lighting of winter accentuates dark circles and puffy eyes, while the weather dries out skin.  Keep your skin especially moisturized in the days leading up to the wedding.  For makeup, use warm and glowing hues, an under-eye concealer & highlighter, a highlighter for your cheekbones and under eyebrow arches, and use a hint of shimmer in your eye makeup.

Read Part 4 next

 

 

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