Posts

Love your body

/in /by

This article brought to you Aleana’s Bridal Shop Bergen County, NJ.

Brides by body type: What’s your aisle style?

….And once you thought the mission was accomplished of you being so lucky enough in life in finding the ONE…the one person who suits you so well, your best friend, your soul mate…a sigh of relief is put on hold once more because you need find the OTHER ONE: your perfect wedding dress.

 You may try on four or five gowns, still being unsure of which one you want.  Exhausted and ready to give up for the day, your mother, sister, or best friend (or maybe all three!) will eye-ball one last dress that they beg you to try on.  Reluctantly, yet with grace (because this is all about you!), you give in.  After trying on the gown, you may turn and see your loved ones break down in tears.  Then you turn and look at yourself in the mirror.  Your reflection leaves you awestruck.  You begin to cry…This is it, your moment…you found the one.  It stunningly fits like a glove, and you finally feel like a gorgeous bride!

Sometimes your family & friends can see your strengths and flaws easier than what your own eye is capable of seeing.  Notice how we take notice from a compliment of a stranger?  When someone acknowledges or reassures us of something, an instant rush takes over our bodies.  We are suddenly swollen with a moment of pure happiness and self-confidence.  Let that someone be someone closest to you, and include them in your days of wedding dress shopping.  Their eyes may see something yours miss.

The right clothing to suit our body types, the right or “perfect” wedding gown may not even be in our radar.  We have a certain sense of style instilled in us and that is our taste in fashion that we usually stick to.  This doesn’t mean that we should change our tastes, but to just become more aware of how to choose the proper dress and details that work with us and our bodies.  A dress that fits is a dress closer to perfection.  And don’t we all want to look perfect (our best) on our wedding day?

“CHOOSE THE RIGHT STYLE

BEFORE WALKING DOWN THE AISLE“

 Identifying the type of body you have first will help you understand what dress works best for you.  Every bride wants to looks her best on the big day, and by keeping an open-mind by viewing several styles of wedding dresses for your body type can help you choose the most flattering fit for your figure.  Look for a dress that creates a balanced build.  Once you begin to understand what body type you are, it will be easier to concentrate on certain styles that accentuate the shape of your body.

Refer to our simple guide to get started: Rectangular Body shape, Hourglass Body shape, Apple Body shape,  Spoon Body Shape.

This article brought to you by www.aleanasbridal.com a bridal shop located in Paramus, NJ.

Accentuate your assets during your wedding day

/in /by

This article brought to you Aleana’s Bridal Shop Bergen County, NJ.

Make your special day become everything you’ve wished for in finding your Dream Wedding Dress.  Choose a dress that will accentuate your unique assets, taking you down the aisle and onto your own red-carpet runway.  With a few of the simple guidelines mentioned, you can find a wedding dress that will maximize your best qualities and minimize your flaws.  While these general tips can help brides look for dress details that will flatter their figures, keep in mind that there is no “one size fits all” rule for dresses for different body types.  If you love a dress, don’t let the suggestions hold you back.  Go ahead and try it on.  To look your gorgeous best for your wedding day, just remember that the most impressive gown on you will be one that creates balance and puts your best traits forward.

MORE GUIDELINES

If you’re TALL:  Princess-line dresses, mermaid or trumpet dresses.

If you’re PETITE:  You want to elongate, so avoid too much fabric, mermaid dresses, and big ball gowns.

                                                                                                                                                 Fuller-busted: Bridal corsets.

Corset has been always important article of clothing that has helped shape and achieve the fashions of many centuries. Women used the corset as a mean to shape their bodies into the perfect shape, that achieved by reducing the thickness of the waist.

Modern corsets often feature boning and back lacing that generally mimic a historical style of corsets. Modern corsets also used to slim the body and make it conform to a fashionable silhouette.

Fuller-arms:  Off-the-shoulder straps, lace tops and sheer fabrics.

 …And when you find your perfect fit…A sweet sigh of relief takes over.

Ahhh…You found the other ONE.

Aleana’s bridal shop located in Paramus, Bergen County, NJ, where you dream comes true. Please schedule your first appointment at www.aleanasbridal.com.

Dress by Zodiac

/in /by

This article brought to you Aleana’s Bridal Shop Bergen County, NJ.

Turn to the Universe…for Guidance to your Gown

By Jaclyn Ianetti

What a magical day it is…if you happen to find just the right wedding gown… with out too many complications, within a reasonable amount of time, and without trying on a trillion dresses.  However, how can you be so sure you’re going to be that lucky as to finding a dress within the first selection or at the first store?  You can’t put all of your bets on destiny, depending on the stars & fate alone to bring you your perfect dress!  Unless, of course, you look to the one star that can guide you: the Sun.  What’s your Sun sign?

Meet the fate of the cosmos by working with them.  Before heading out dress shopping, be in control of the magic and cast your own spell on your bridal dress day: peek into the crystal ball of the zodiac and let your astrology sign reveal the perfect look for you.

Astrology will reveal your “wedding dress horoscope” and predict whether you’ll swish down the aisle in an elaborate ball gown, make a statement in a stunning, low-cut satin sheath, shine in simplicity with a more classic, refined taste, or flaunt an elegant yet edgy look.

Will be right on point, fitting the qualities of your sign? Or, are you like many others who will choose a style dress that represents your moon sign and/or rising sign/ascendant?  Complete a full birth chart first and foremost if you are not already aware of your moon sign and rising/ascendant sign.  These signs are just important as your sun sign, and can reveal a lot about you, so look to them too for additional support on selecting a bridal gown to lead you in the right direction.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20) The Dreamy Princess

Aries (March 21 – April 20) The Bold Beauty

Taurus (April 21 – May 21) The Comfort Creature

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)Miss Pretty, Playful Personality 

Cancer (June 22– July 23)The Soul Sister 

 Leo (July 24– Aug 23) The Drama Queen

Virgo (Aug 24– Sept 23) The Victorian Virgin

 Libra (Sept 24– Oct 23) The Balanced Bombshell

 Scorpio (Oct 24– Nov 22) The Sultry Siren 

Sagittarius (Nov 23– Dec 22)The Free Spirit  

Capricorn (Dec 23– Jan 20) The Classic Charm

Aquarius (Jan 21– Feb 19) The Retro Rebel  

Schedule your first appointment at Aleana’ s Bridal Shop

A Couple’s First Home Feng Shui (Part 2)

/in /by

Read Part 1 first

Feng Shui Photo Tips

Display happy pictures of you and your loved one laughing, smiling, hugging, and kissing.  Frame the pictures that conjure up the best of memories, including any professional wedding pictures.

 

Save the happy family photos to be showed elsewhere around the gathering spaces of your home, like the living room or kitchen.  Keeping family photos out of the main bedroom and putting any stray photos into albums will minimize struggles with family fall-outs and help to maintain healthy boundaries with relatives and within your own romantic relation.

It’s just those…good vibrations. 

…and I don’t mean you’re cell phone vibrating constantly updating your inbox.  Empty old messages everywhere you can think of…you’re text message log, voicemails, email accounts, etc.  Letting messages accumulate can make it difficult to get your wants and needs across.  Erasing old messages will keep the means of communication clear, thus inducing clear communication between you & your spouse, minimizing misunderstandings in dialogue and feelings of being unappreciated.

 

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Accessorize candlesticks, lamps, picture frames, etc. in pairs anywhere in the home, especially the bedroom, to amplify that two-of-a-kind energy you’re going for.   Always keep in mind that being selective with colors, photographs, and other subtle details add to the aura of keeping it a sacred place for two. 

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

 

Every other room and detail in the house can create a more relaxing home for your relationship to stay happy & healthy…

 

The Living Room

Think…Inviting.  Position the sofa back up against the wall to face the main entry to enhance feelings of security.  Create symmetrical arrangements between pairs of seats and sofas to invite connection and positive energy.

The Bathroom

This is the “self-care” room in the house.  Splurge on a new shower curtain, towels, and bath mats: the more sparkling clean it is, the more you will find time for the things and people that bring you the most joy…including the holder of your heart, your spouse.

The Kitchen

…The health & wellness sector.  Clear out cabinets, cupboards, the pantry, refrigerator & freezers.  Purging and detoxing your kitchen will purge unwanted, stagnant energy out of you, creating an overall sense of well-being for you and your loved one.
Feng Shui for Two…and YOU.
All of these Feng Shui tips are designed to bring renewed energy to the areas of your life that will positively impact your romance, as well as many other relationships including the most important one…the one you have with yourself.

 

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal Shop. A bridal shop located in Paramus, NJ. Please schedule your first appointment at Aleana’s Bridal Shop in NJ or call 201-444-1500.

Possible wedding disasters (part 3)

/in /by

Read Part 1 and Part 2 first

 

Watch out for…

Gown issues:  Make sure it comes in on time by not procrastinating in the first place.  Your gown should be the first thing handled during your bridal journey.  What if it doesn’t fit you? – Make sure your not fluctuating weight by staying on a balanced diet/exercise regimen.

 

Fires and Flies:  Beware of candles…and stay away from those “bar flies” – those intoxicated guests who keep enthusiastically hitting the bar and then making their way over to hug you with their glass in hand-  to avoid alcohol spills on your precious gown!

 

Wah Wah Wahhh…Babies crying:  People bringing their children to the ceremony, when you sent out invitations instructing guests’ “NO CHILDREN ALLOWED!!!  Can we say…annoying?!?  Make sure everybody understands your sincerity with this wish by clearly stating in conversation your “rule” with those you know who have children before the big day arrives.

 

Extra guests…with no seating.  There may be some stragglers and wedding crashers, so make sure there are extra chairs at the venue just incase these unruly scavengers come and crash!

 

Rainstorm.  Of course the weather being bad could be quite devastating, especially if you have an out-door ceremony…but have arrangements made so that the ceremony could easily be brought in-doors.  If you have the reception outdoors, just have an area or patio covered by a tent…and hope that everybody could fit into this spot!    And if the weather really gets out of hand?  Please avoid mud by all costs! (My bridal beg to you!)

 

Out-of-line Speeches:  The maid of honor and best man may just have had a little too much to drink…and now they confidently take the mic., and deliver a very inappropriate…and embarrassing speech.  All you can do in this case is make sure they know beforehand that you will not tolerate nothing but a classy and respectful speech, and that they will suffer the consequences if they fail to deliver this promise.  Deal?  Deal!  Make this agreement.  And promise one another that they will limit their drinking till after they give their speeches.

Worst Wedding Disaster?…

Being stood up at the alter cannot be argued to being anything else but the worst nightmare imaginable to any bride…and groom!  Cold feet, no groom, and a run-a-way bride?  Sounds like nothing else can top that!

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal Shop. A bridal shop located in Paramus, NJ. Please schedule your first appointment at Aleana’s Bridal Shop or call 201-444-1500.

Possible wedding disasters (part 1)

/in /by

By Jaclyn Ianetti

Before we get started, let’s look to the stars for a second…

 

Venus is the planet for love and harmony…and when Venus goes retrograde (moving backward), it can feel like anything BUT love.  When a planet goes retrograde, its’ powers dim down, and things under its’ ruler ship can go a little bit haywire.  So with our planetary peacekeeper taking a nap, it will be up to us scrappy humans to get along on our own.

Venus was actually retrograde this past wedding season/summer, from May 15 through June 27.  Venus goes retrograde every year and a half or so, and it’s typically known as a “blackout time” for weddings.  But seriously, with weddings being planned months (if not years) in advance, who can call off their nuptials just because of this temporary transit?  If you happen to be getting married during any Venus retrograde, just take some extra precautions: Seat those argumentative relatives across the ballroom from each other…Put a presumptuous maid of honor in her place, or she’s out of the party!…And if you’re having serious second thoughts about your betrothed-to-be, don’t “say yes to the dress” just because the flowers and cake have been ordered.

During Venus retrograde, we’ll see our share of breakups … and makeups.

Retrogrades also bring back the past, so you’re as likely to take a temporary time-out from someone as you are to hear from “the one who got away” and even to consider a reunion.  Relationships built on a shaky foundation will need to strengthen and fortify.  This wouldn’t be a bad time to call up a couples’ therapist, try a workshop, or just simply make the communication channels between you and your sweetheart extra clear so you know where you both stand with each other.

Have no fear, though!…With a conscious mind and a generous heart, anybody can offset the waves of discord during Venus retrograde.
Wedding Woes

Some of these may seem like itty-bitty problems, but we all know that one tiny little issue on the day of your wedding is the equivalent to being the biggest disaster EVER!!!!

Facial Flare

What can be worse than waking up with a pimple on your wedding day?  For any facial flare-ups, just ice it…and then leave it alone.  DO NOT pick or squeeze anything the day of the wedding.  This includes extractions.  Any doing of the previously mentioned will just make the problem area more inflamed, reddened , and harder to cover.  Apply a concealer with a green base to counterbalance the red in the pimple on top of foundation to the area and set with a powder for more staying power.  Keep your concealer on hand for touch-ups through out the day.

Read part 2 and Part 3

This article brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal Shop. A bridal shop located in Paramus, NJ. Please schedule your first appointment at Aleana’s Bridal Shop or call 201-444-1500.

Theme Weddings (Part 4)

/in , /by

Start with Part 1, Part 2, Part 3

HAWAII THEMES

Waikiki, pineapples, fire dancers and hula girls!

No matter where you are, it’s easy to bring Hawaii, or any beach, to your own back yard (or wedding venue!).  This will be for the casual and laid-back bride that wants an exotic, island feel to her wedding.

Suggestive music selection should consist of soothing, pleasing, and relaxing tunes during important parts of the ceremony and reception.

You’ll want to include loose, colorful orchid blossoms or plumeria flowers as apart of your decorations and/or favors.  Silk flowers are also another option, and these will last forever.  You can also float some of these loose orchids in a few punch bowls filled with guava and passion fruit juice placed around the venue.  Consider having a flower piece as a favor for your guests to bring home, along with a tasty treat such as chocolate covered macadamia nuts.  Floating coconut candles and seashells are decorative accents you can add in to the ambiance of the reception room.  Consider a Hawaii-style side dish like fresh pineapple, luau punch, lomi salmon and haupia (a Hawaiian coconut flavored jello dessert) to create an authentic feel to the food being served.
Acknowledging special guests is customary in Hawaii, so giving guests a lei will show acknowledgment towards their presence and importance.  You can get creative in customizing your own leis, and if you choose to make them out of shells, they will look intricate and will last forever as a memento of your wedding.

 

*  A Midsummer Night’s Dream …for you brilliant, dark, literary, sexy Shakespearean lovers!  As dramatic as you wish, set a mysterious mist of an enchanted forest where fairy lights dance to an everlasting tune.  Lilly pads sprinkled with fairy dust floating on a pond amidst the exotic, blooming flowers, hanging vines, and & an entwinement of ribbons.

“I know a bank where the wild thyme grows” — William Shakespeare

 

*  Vintage …a wedding full of nostalgia.  Walk down memory lane into choosing your own antique look.  With a bohemian feel, this can be a very relaxed atmosphere filled with its‘ own unconventional paradox: laid-back and upbeat…all at once.  Be outside the norm and use eclectic styles from an almost forgotten time in the past.  Change from your ceremony gown into a casual white sundress at the reception and let down your locks wearing a “modern day hippie”  headband made of beautiful flowers around your head.  Your wedding can be a field of free spirits under a candlelit night sky.

 

 DISNEY WEDDING THEME

For you Disney dreamers and princesses, having a Disney themed wedding would be the perfect fit for you.  There is SO much to choose from with these types of weddings.  Depending upon the characters you love, your favorite Disney location, and many more factors…you can personalize this fairytale wedding to where it syncs up with your own Cinderella wishes.

 

You can chose to have your Disney destination in Florida, California, Hawaii, or even on-board the Disney Cruise Line.  There are a variety of bridal collections available: The Escape, Wishes, Couture, & Memories Collection…All of which offer a distinctive vision that celebrates your heart’s desire and personal style.  From Cinderella’s Castle to underneath the stars and fireworks in the exotic Epcot’s setting, there are plenty of options, accommodations, and activities based upon your wedding preference.

 

 – – – – – – – –  – – – – – – – –  – – – – – – – –  – – – – – – – –  – – – – – – – –  – – – – – – – –

As you can see, there are SO many wedding themes to play around with!  And I only listed a few of them!…so get in-tune to your own personality and style and do some research as to what wedding theme is the match for YOU on your very special day.

 This article brought to you by www.aleanasbridal.com.  

 

 

Theme Weddings (Part 1)

/in , /by

By Jaclyn Ianetti

 Your wedding day is as special and unique as you are.  Everything about it should reflect your individuality, especially your ceremony and the reception.

First, plan your theme according to your ceremony and reception site.  Figure out what they both have to offer.  Does the hotel include ballrooms, bridal suite, and more?  Is there an outside party area?  Is it more of a casual, formal, or intimate setting?

 

*Ceremony site / Reception site

*Outside party area

*Bridal Suite

*Hotel

*Ballroom

*Country Club

*Water side

*Garden

*Castles/Mansion

*Yacht/Boat

 

Here’s a list of just a few ideas to engage with in choosing a theme for your own wedding…and you can always expand on the ideas to make one fit just for you.

*Double Wedding:  A single ceremony where two affiliated couples rendezvous for two separate weddings.  Are you one for sharing your ONE special day?  Be positive that all will be smooth if you do decide to book a double, and don’t let it turn into a scene from the movie “Bride Wars,” as Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson’s characters go from best friends to bride enemies at the same venue!…SCARY!

 

Weekend wedding:  A wedding in which couples and their guests celebrate over the course of a weekend.  Lodging is usually at the same facility as the wedding.

 

Military wedding: A ceremony conducted in a military chapel.

 

Civil wedding:  A ceremony presided over by a local civil authority, such as an elected or appointed judge, justice of the peace, or the mayor of a locality.

 

Let’s get creative with our list of fun & festive themes:

 

*Mardi Gras…for the PARTY bride!: beads, glow in the dark jewelry, Cajun food such as jambalaya & boiled shrimp…all spicy suggestions to serve in this New Orleans inspired theme.

 

*Masquerade Ball…for you costume lovers!  Decorated masks, jester dolls, and the primary colors of green, gold, & purple can be combined into this wedding.

 

*Winter Wonderland…Snow/Ice Queens!  Create a world of wondrous enchantment by using reflections of silver & gold…sparkle & shine…accented by a simple & sophisticated color scheme of pure white.

 

*Western Wedding…Grab your partner dosey-doe?  Cowboy hats and horseshoes…Add some country flair with an authentic cowboy atmosphere.

 

This article brought to you by Aleanas Bridal.

 

Wedding gown for Aquarius (Jan 21– Feb 19) The Retro Rebel

/in /by

Personality:   You are independence personified, Aqua girl.  Unconventional, unique, and willing to stick to your guns – especially in the face of adversity; these traits make you a great debater and a clear thinker, and therefore a valuable friend.  You lean toward the eclectic and are possibly even cluttered, in home and hearth, but everything you own is beautiful and high quality.  Aquarius is the sign of friendship and humanity.  You’re the girl next door, everyone’s best friend who loves animals, hates cruelty and always defends the underdog.  Although you can be popular and blend into the crowd, you are by no means traditional.  You’re the zodiac’s most futuristic and forward-thinking sign, have a bit of a rebellious nature, and whose weird ways and silly, quirky personality have your loved ones always coming back for more.

Style: Bohemian BFF…Unruly Rebel.  You are indie-artsy, but are careful not to follow the major trends unless you really love the look.  You lean toward clean lines and eye-catching pieces in silver, turquoise, and rich blues.  Often, it’s the outfits you throw on in a rush that end up receiving the most compliments; not paying attention to detail works for you.  You love flower power looks from the 1960’s, but can also rock ultra-modern styles and the latest trends.  You’re not afraid to shock people with a blast of color, an out-there trend or a controversial T-shirt.  Quirky pieces with a futuristic bent express your individuality and keep you from blending into the crowd.

Your eccentric side comes out through your style and you can simply make a statement with your hairstyle.

 

Your Dream Dress/ Wedding Dress Horoscope:  Unconventional and fun, Aquarian brides favor geometrical and asymmetrical cuts and have a distinctly modern taste that runs from delicate to bold.  As an air sign, you like to turn heads and make a statement.  As an independent thinker, Aquarian brides may mix and match different styles.   An Aquarius is known to reject the idea of a traditional gown and go with a trendy style.  From a wispy off-the-shoulder sheath to a sleek A-line with a halter neck, you want a dress that is sophisticated, yet bold and whimsical.  Your wedding gown will be elegant yet unique, classic yet intriguing.   A gown with geometric shape and unusual but amazingly beautiful back detail is a dress that has got Aquarius style covered.  Your family and friends will love the front of your dress made of tiny ruffles or layers of feathers, and a bodice that fits like a glove.  But once they turn around, and see a surprise twist of detailing on opposite side, they will marvel at the back.  Get creative with your accessories: a striking stone necklace or a pill box hat with bird-cage veil will upgrade your look to sensational.

Style icon who shares your sign:  Zsa Zsa Gabor

Aqua seductresses: Farrah Fawcett, Jennifer Aniston, Paris Hilton, Lauren Conrad

This article is brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal Shop located in the town of Paramus, NJ – Bergen County. We will help you design the dress of your dreams. Please schedule your first appointment at Aleana’s Bridal Shop in Paramus, NJ or call (201) 444-1500.

 

Wedding gown for Capricorn (Dec 23– Jan 20) The Classic Charm

/in /by

Personality:  Hello, Ms. Independent!  Capricorns are always steadfast and surefooted and prefer to “go it alone” because they rarely trust others to finish the project.  You really don’t wait around for anyone else to get the job done.  Capricorns live a driven and structured life, taking all responsibilities seriously.  Your sign rules the 10th house of authority and leadership, making you the zodiac’s very own first lady.  Everybody knows they can count on a Capricorn, as you earthy beings are great friends and business partners.

Style: Timeless Classic…Blazing Business Woman.  As corporate climbers, Capricorns have some serious style.  You’re drawn to gray and blacks, blazers and button downs.  A Capricorn talent is mixing business attire with unexpected items – plaid scarves, interesting necklaces, even a fedora, because you have the skill to turn the most basic staple (White House/Black Market/ J. Crew) into an American classic.  You stun in quality pieces that stand the test of time, so it’s better for you to avoid the latest fads.  Your only style alert? With your workaholic nature, it’s easy to label fashion as a luxury or indulgence.  Well, Ms. Ambitious, statistics show that it takes only three seconds for people to form a first impression of you.  Make your mark in stylish, simple clothes that can outlast a long workday but still take you behind the velvet ropes at a glamorous VIP event.

Your Dream Dress/ Wedding Dress Horoscope:  Capricorns are typical Earth brides who are grounded in their roots.  They are perfectionists, who strive for a dignified, classic gown.  A structured bodice gown and perfectly cut silhouette will appeal to your elegant tastes and practical sensibilities.   A gown with three-fourth lace sleeves, a deep V-neck and full bottom are just a few of the aspects that make up the precious gown you aspire for.  Any additional pieces should be carefully considered.  Earth brides are very particular about what accents they choose to wear.  Pair your gown with a simple elbow or fingertip-length veil, a single strand of pearls, and some beautiful sling back shoes.  Or simply highlight your decolletage with an heirloom pendant and you’re ready to wed.  All Earth brides like a face that’s natural with a tiny touch of drama.  Splurge on a makeup artist and hair stylist to work your wishes for an authentic appeal that especially shows off your sound beauty of bone structure, skin, and teeth.

Style icon who shares your sign:  January Jones

Cappie seductresses: Kate Moss, Sienna Miller, Mary J. Blige, Michelle Obama

This article is brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal Shop located in the town of Paramus, NJ – Bergen County. We will help you design the dress of your dreams. Please schedule your first appointment at Aleana’s Bridal Shop in Paramus, NJ or call (201) 444-1500.

Photo credit to Mr. T in DC on Flickr.