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A Couple’s First Home Feng Shui (Part 1)

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Now that you both have moved into your own space, it’s time to clear out the clutter and make way for a brand new season of growth, while keeping the warmth and love alive.  Your first home together, whether it be an apartment, condo, or house…should support your marriage energetically.

 

A Balanced Bedroom for Two…Feng Shui for Love

Lets start with your master bedroom, which is the most important room in the house designed to keep the energies aligned rightfully for your relationship.  You do spend every night together in the same bed…so it’s no wonder the bedroom carries the most energy towards your love life.

 

The bed itself plays an important role…so think of how you want it to look and what you wish for it to portray.  First & foremost, invest in new bedding when moving into your first home together with your significant other.  This includes a whole new bed, comforter, sheets, pillows, etc.  The energies of other people who’ve slept in your old bed still lingers there…can we say “relationship residue”?!? …and from a feng shui point of view, you wouldn’t want any ghosts haunting you both in your sleep, now would you?

 

The back of the bed should be set up against a solid wall, not a window, to face the door.  Circular or oval styled mattresses are best for promoting romantic chi.  If you choose not to purchase a mattress with this soft-edged shape, you can do the same for pillow and chairs instead.  Stick to color tones of brown, pink, & peach for a touch of softness.  For a little extra spice, add some fiery reds into the mix if you wish.

 

What goes on on top of the bed is privately & intimately your business…but what about under the bed?  If you’d like a happier, healthier love life, get down on the floor & take a look underneath.  Clearing this space out beneath your bed will be just the ticket you need to maintaining and/or improving romance.  Relocate any items you use regularly, then discard or donate the rest.  By keeping the space beneath your bed totally clear, you’ll resolve any deceptions, hidden resentments and childhood traumas that have affected your romantic relationships.

 

Now, what about next to the bed?  This is where you will most likely find nightstands and tables with lamps placed on top.  If you do have these types of pieces, make sure they are equality placed on both sides of the bed by using the same furniture and decorated accents on its’ surface.  Equality equals balance!  And the more soft the lighting, the sexier your space will be.

 KEEP OUT!

The only photos that should make their appearance into the bedroom are snapshots of you & your spouse, only! Like the “Keep Out” sign swinging on the door-knob, apply the same rule for family/friend photos to “keep out” the negative energy & experiences of others from affecting your relationship and/or marriage.  This is about the two of you…and your relationship together…nobody else included.  Unwelcomed, uninvited, third-wheel and butt-ing in your relationship business?  Keep those energies away, please!

Read more Part 2

This article brought to you by www.aleanasbridal.com. A bridal shop located in Paramus, NJ. Please schedule your first appointment at Aleanasbridal.com or call at 201-444-1500.

 

 

Possible wedding disasters (part 2)

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Read Part 1 first

Hair Hassles

If the weather is literally raining on your parade!…don’t fret just yet.  If you know it’s raining, pull your hair back into a ballerina bun and secure with bobby pins or clips before heading out into the rain.  Once you’re inside, shake out your hair and lightly hairspray it.  If the clouds just open up and pour on your perfectly blow-dried hair randomly, take a drop of smoothing serum and gently run it over your hair before using a large curling iron to smooth out the kinks.  Humidity makes curly go frizzy.  To avoid, apply a small drop of shine serum to small hair sections, twist up the locks, then let them drop.  Don’t use too much hairspray either, to avoid “helmet head.”  If you’re a “hair-spray happy” girl and this does happen to you, use oil-blotting papers to tone down the shine and gently place hair where needed and use a mix of a shine serum with a paste.

Manicure Mishaps

Be sure to have the nail polish on hand that is the same shade of your manicure stored in your beauty bag for the day.  Stock a liquid nail adhesive and glue the nail back on (if you have tips).  Dot the polish over the nail, let dry, and file the edges smooth.  To prevent paint-chipped nails and nail breaking, have your bridal party help you put on jewelry clasps.

Makeup Mess…on your Gown

Blotting & Seltzer!!! First, try blotting, then place napkin on the inside of the dress and a seltzer spilled napkin on the outside, and gently dab out the stain.  Treat with a stain-removing pen (like those easy-carrying Tide pens) or try some hot water with plain soap.  If you really got yourself into a mess and can’t possibly get the stain out, ask your photographer to photoshop the stains out of your wedding photos.

Stylist Canceled

If you have a freelance artist coming to you, make sure you both have a contract that states…  “In case of an emergency, you will be provided with another artist at the same price.”  IF you don’t have an agreement like this and you must find your own stylist at the last minute, make sure you have one that you spoke to prior and explained that they will be on-call, if needed.   What if you’re look for the day doesn’t resemble your original artist’s work?  Avoid this by ensuring beforehand that your original artist has concisely written down everything necessary for achieving your desired look, including color choices and placement.  They should always keep information on file at the salon so that if there is a problem, the replacement artist will have solid directions to work with.

No-Show Stylist

If you have a freelance artist coming to you, make sure you both have a contract that states…  “In case of an emergency, you will be provided with another artist at the same price.”  IF you don’t have an agreement like this and you must find your own stylist at the last minute, make sure you have one that you spoke to prior and explained that they will be on-call, if needed.

Read 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.

Journey of wedding day preparation (Part 3)

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by Jaclyn Ianetti

Read Part 1 and Part 2 first

 

BODY, SKIN, MAKEUP, HAIR

*Take care of your teeth by brushing and flossing each night so that your smile will look its’ best the day of.

*If you’re going to be strict with anything, be strict with your skin!  Take care of it, go for facials, and use products that don’t irritate it.  Control your stress (by exercising, eating right and relaxing!) to minimize breakouts.

*Try different makeup lines to see what works best on your skin.  Purchase your own cosmetics if you’re having your makeup done professionally and so that you will have them on hand for any touch-ups on wedding day.  Choose waterproof mascara if possible!

*Go for trims to keep your hair healthy and be sure the hairstyle you choose for your wedding (whether you wear it up or down) doesn’t hide your face.  You will be taking lots of photos, kissing, and eating and you don’t want hair in the way!

*Go for trial run appointments with your hair stylist and makeup artist, so that your not freaked out on your special day if something doesn’t look the way its’ supposed to!

*Go for final bridal fittings to make sure fittings/measurements are ok.  On the day of, dress carefully and patiently to avoid a rip in your dress.

*SPEAK UP! If something isn’t the way you want (from your hair, makeup, spa treatments, bridal dress fittings, flowers, etc.)  YOU ARE THE BRIDE.  This day IS about YOU.  Speak your visions!

*SLEEP and RELAX:  Getting your sleep and enough time each day for your self to devote to relaxation is the key to looking and feeling good.

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

This whole wedding idea…the one magical day…the fairytale…creates so much pressure that you’re bound to lose your temper at a few points along the way!  Stop beating yourselves up about your weight or your looks along the journey:  Step back, re-evaluate the situation, and start celebrating who you are in the present moment and for all of the things you have already accomplished!   You will look beautiful on your wedding day, no matter how much you weigh or how good your hair or skin looks.  Just be yourself.  When you are your true self, confidence illuminates and beauty shines from the internal part of who you are to the external.

Enjoy your journey and enjoy the destination.  If you’re not where you want to be at?  No big deal!  For instance, being heavier than you’d like to be on your wedding day will not, in the least, distract from the impact of the huge commitment you’re about to make to your partner or the love and joy you’ll share with your family and friends.

Let your new regimen be to just relax and go along with the journey, without forcing or resisting anything.  Relax as you are whisked off to the bliss of your wedding!  Enjoy being a model for the photographer.  You want to enjoy this moment of being photographed, not feel like a stiff model fearing that your hair and makeup isn’t in place!

Let these suggestions pop the question in your head of “what is the most important thing about your wedding day?” To marry your love in a beautiful dress and to be surrounded by the ones you love most is the true gift of a wedding.  Celebrate love and all gifts life has to offer on your special day.

A PROPOSAL TO YOU:  Drop the pressure and enjoy yourself!

“We understand what you feel”

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

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

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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 Sagittarius (Nov 23– Dec 22) The Free Spirit

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Personality:  As a Sagittarius, you’re one of the wanderers of the zodiac – you’re on an endless odyssey to find the meaning of life.  You’re an adventurer and truth-seeker.  Above all else, you value freedom.  Your thrilling, nomadic lifestyle means you have no shortage of stories and make a great entertainer.  People value your company because you tend to be the “ice breaker” of any uncomfortable situation.  You’re class clown vibes comfort others, loosening everybody up.  Lighthearted and lovable, you are the person who is missed when not present at a party.

Style:  Girl on the Go…Unfussy Sagittarius is the sign of the traveler, and you need style that’s as on-the-go as you are.  You’re a free spirit and your clothes are sensibly chic.  It’s all about layers – pullovers, leg warmers, and flannels paired with comfy jeans and leggings for you.  Since you never know where you’ll end up, your wardrobe is best when it is versatile, comfortable and easy to maintain.  You prize your individuality, so you’re always on the hunt for the perfect, one-of-a-kind item that brings you joy —be it a funky piece of costume jewelry or a handmade dress from an undiscovered boutique.  You hate to feel confined, and since most Sags are curvier on the bottom, it can take work to find clothes that are both comfortable and flattering.  What suits you best?  A mixtures of basics blending in your own unique pizzazz.

Your Dream Dress/ Wedding Dress Horoscope:  Renew your passport – if anyone’s a destination bride, it’s you.  You’ll need a beachy wedding gown that’s a breeze to pack.  Two concerns for a Sagittarius bride are finding a dress that allows her to move freely and is made of natural, comfortable fibers.  You want to look good, but must be unencumbered as well.  Pick a dress that allows you to move around freely without having to worry about it wearing you.  A tight lace-up bodice or too many undergarments will drive you crazy all day.  You will love a dress that is adorable, not too restricting, and made of versatility.  Be comfortable and pretty at your wedding, but remember to consider the time of year you are planning your wedding as your legs, arms and shoulders will all be exposed, free-natured Sagi!  The goddess gown was made for you Sagittarius…leave your hair free and flowing.

Style icon who shares your sign:  Scarlett Johansson

Sagi seductresses: Katie Holmes, Christina Applegate, Nelly Furtado, Miley Cyrus

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 credits to verseguru on Flickr. com

Wedding gown for Scorpio (Oct 24– Nov 22) The Sultry Siren

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Personality: You’re intense, passionate and an expert at zeroing-in on your goals and plucking away at them until the job is done.  Scorpios are secretive and keep emotions bottled up.  You also regenerate quickly in the face of aversion.  The word “quit” doesn’t apply to you and you enjoy engaging in a little friendly competition every now and then.  As a water sign, intuition and compassion come easily to you, and are prone to reminiscing here and there.  Your outstanding memory is something memorable: your persona of certainty is one that wins admire of those lucky enough to get to know you.

Style: Mistress of Mystery…the sign of mystery, sex, and seduction…you manage to make even the most conservative, buttoned-up suit feel a little naughty.  You are sultry, fierce, fearless, and love experimenting with animal prints, neon leggings, big hoop earrings and even bigger hair.  Your most-used accessory is confidence – and your favorite colors are red and black.  As a creature of the night, day-into-evening looks work best on you.  Fashion-forward and a love for keeping people guessing, you like to reveal just enough to tease without overdoing it.  Scorpio rules regeneration, so restore what you find in thrift shops or snag accessories made from recycled materials.  Sunglasses are your most favorable asset:  The eyes are the windows to the soul, and you won’t be caught dead to be the one to reveal all of your cards first!

Your Dream Dress/ Wedding Dress Horoscope: 

Just because it’s your wedding day doesn’t mean you can’t stay true to the Scorpio’s bold, sexy style that displays your passionate and intensity through the clothes you wear on an every day basis.  You are sexy!  So show off whatever you feel is your sexiest body part.   A corseted or a body-hugging sheath with a plunging “V” neckline are a match made in the heavens for Scorpio.  A Scorpio bride does not mind heavy makeup.  She enjoys anything that sets her apart from every other day in her life.  You wish for a wedding dress that is different and unique, featuring lavish gems that fall down the center of the gown, along the collar bone, the waist (creating the illusion of a belt) and throughout the rest of the gown with an exquisite lace detail and a high slit in the front.  Show off your best features, usually your legs and waist, and command all the attention you know you deserve as the bride!  Pair your wedding gown with a high stiletto heel for an added touch of flirtation.

Style icon who shares your sign: Grace Kelly

Scorpio Seductresses: Chloe Sevigny, Demi Moore, Julia Roberts, Anne Hathaway, Katy Perry

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 Virgo (Aug 24– Sept 23) The Victorian Virgin

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Personality:   Sharp attention to detail, a discerning eye, and reliability epitomize the Virgo.  You’re down-to-earth and have a deep sense of commitment to friends, family, and the community.  Your home is sparse and tidy.  You’re fussy about what food and products you let into your carefully constructed world.  When shopping with your friends, you will be the one who leaves them behind in the clothing departments as you venture your way through the aisles filled with cleaning products and mops.  A listener who offers honest feedback, a silly partner-in-crime, a heart of pure gold…is what makes Virgos so special.

Style: Fair Maiden…Natural Beauty…Victorian, Virginal Vixen… 

You’re the fresh-faced “virgin” of the zodiac, and simplicity is your secret style weapon.  In a sea of bright colors, synthetic fabrics and gaudy embellishments, you take fashion back to basics by making unfussy cuts and all-American fabrics look surprisingly fresh.  Your style is bohemian with a boyish twist.  Brainy Virgo can also rock “geek chic” — nobody makes glasses look sexy quite like you.  Pairing vintage frames with wild curls or flowing hair instantly makes you the hot librarian who’s got beauty and brains. What a package!  Cleanliness is next to godliness for you, so a clean signature scent is what you crave; all the better if it’s an essential oil or made from pure ingredients. You’re an earth sign, so go “green” with your style.  Organic materials like pure cotton, wool and even hemp are flattering and friendly to the planet…and to you.

Your Dream Dress/ Wedding Dress Horoscope: 

Your wedding gown will be a sophisticated eclipse of hippie flower child and Victorian purist.  Think a strapless sheath in Ivory Chantilly lace or a pastel pink dress with ribbon trim.  Virgos want a classic look.  When shopping for a dress, think understated elegance; rich, unadorned satin; an A-line cut; and a short simple sweep train.  You earth girls are dignified and want to mirror that attribute in the gown you choose.  The dress needs to look clean, neat and decidedly bridal.  No chic, cutting-edge designs, no splash of color, and definitely no abundance of tulle.  Think simple, classic elegance.  What would be more perfect then a drop dead gorgeous, dazzling satin gown with embellished belt and a sweeping train?  This marks sophistication while the sparkle from the belt adds character.  Tuck a rose behind one ear for a romantic – and decidedly Virgo finishing touch.

Style icon who shares your sign: Sophia Loren

Virgo seductresses: Stella McCartney, Salma Hayek, Beyoncé, Blake Lively

This article is brought to you by Aleana’s Bridal Shop located in the town of Paramus, NJ – Bergen County.