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Wedding Games

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Wedding Games to Keep the Fun Going on!

A boring wedding is every bride’s worst nightmare. At present, couples are focusing on new ways to incorporate fun into their party such as having wedding games to play. Once the ceremony is over it’s time for the party to begin.

Let’s play a game. It’s going to keep your guests entertained.

Naughts and Crosses – Naughts and crosses, also known as X’s and O’s, is a game for all ages. This kids’ game has been around forever and continues to be a favorite. This game is really a case of a moment to learn, a lifetime to master, meaning that all of your guests can enjoy it!

Hook-a-Duck – Have a number of cute little yellow ducklings with metal rings fastened to their heads in an inflatable pool. Try putting a hidden mark under some of the ducks, and the guests who pull them out will be titled winners. You could get buy or rent poles with hooks on the top to capture the ducks. Give them to your guests and let the game begin!

Ring Toss – This funfair game is actually fun when it isn’t rigged! Simply add a couple of small prizes and you’ll keep the younger guests amused, make a drinking game and you’ll keep the adults entertained too.

Hula Hoops – Hula Hoops are most often associated with children and childhood games, but they can be just as much fun for teens and adults. Have your guests compete to see who the best Hula-Hooper is. This is all the more hilarious with a mixed group of teen boys and girls, as boys tend to have difficulty keeping the Hula Hoop moving around their hips.

Tree Swing – Nothing brings back more summer memories than a wooden swing hanging under a tree. If you have little ones or are a kid at heart, don’t spend another day without this summer wedding essential.

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

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.

 

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.

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.

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

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Read Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 first

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

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.

 

 

 

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 

The Beauty Behind Custom-Made Dresses

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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, it is 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 dress makers were the first that became known as the best needle workers in Europe. In 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 sleep wear 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.

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.

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

 

 

How to choose your wedding menu (Part 1)

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By Jaclyn Ianetti

How do you choose the right meal menu for your guests to enjoy at your wedding?  Some of your guests may not be picky at all, while others may be vegetarians; your cousin is a vegan, your friend a diabetic, and so on.  It would be completely overwhelming trying to please everybody 100%, but you can get creative and choose a sensible menu made for all to avoid any complaints amongst guests.

 

This table guide from HubPages can prove to be very helpful, as it’s an excellent starting point for brainstorming possible considerations:

 

“Considerations for Planning a Wedding Reception”

  1. Buffet or sit-down dinner
  2. Finger foods or hearty fare
  3. Catered or cooked by relatives or friends
  4. Indoors or outdoors
  5. Any appropriate themes for cuisine, i.e. Polynesian, Southern BBQ, Coastal seafood, etc.
  6. Dietary restrictions (OR ANY FOOD ALLERGIES OF GUESTS)
  7. Mobility of your guests (elderly people may have a harder time at a buffet)
  8. Cultural traditions
  9. Cost
  10. Number of guests
  11. Time of day
  12. Decor (flowers, candles, ice sculptures, or whatever you fancy)
  13. Logistics of serving and/or buffet lines
  14. Beverage options
  15. Wedding cake and/or other dessert

(Found on: http://hubpages.com/hub/Wedding-Food)

 

A Memorable Mix-up

Between you and your beloved groom, you’ll want to incorporate your favorite dishes that hold a special significance, yet ones that also cater to the diverse appetites of your treasured guests.

Select comfort foods from your own “streams of consciousness” that take you on a stroll down memory lane: tastes that remind you of your most cherished, past dining experiences together.  Think of your favorite vacation spot restaurant, your favorite all-time restaurant in general, or a home-cooked meal that you two make together or one that symbolizes your grandmother’s traditional touches, etc.  Use these as a sentimental nod to some of your top-of-the-list foods.

Personal touches such as keeping these things in mind may go unnoticed by your guests, but at least you two will know where the inspiration came from…and their taste buds alone will celebrate along with you, since this is an opportunity to share something intimate with all of your guests.  Combine your culinary heritage, such as having an Indian-Irish buffet, or a full blown Italian wedding.

Read Part 2,  Part 3, and Part 4

 

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