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A Bride’s Wish List by Aleana’s Bridal Shop

By Jaclyn Ianetti for Aleana’s Bridal, Paramus, NJ

“Honor, riches, marriage-blessing
Long continuance, and increasing,
Hourly joys be still upon you!”
– William Shakespeare

You found the man of your dreams…the dress of your dreams…had the wedding of your dreams. Now what about the future of your dreams?

Before you start dreaming up future plans, first give out gratitude to the universe for bringing you the things that bring you love & happiness, right here in the “here and now.” There is a measurable benefit to counting your blessings and looking on the bright side. Doing this will be sure to bring you more of your wishes, hopes and dreams to be realized soon in the future! Studies have been done to prove that people are genuinely happier when showing gratitude. So remember that a happy energy and positive outlook attracts positive outcomes!

Wedding day planning has brought you much stress, I’m sure, but give thanks for how wonderful it all turned out to be. “Thank you power” can actually undo the effects of stress that has took its’ toll on you. And aren’t you thankful for all the beauty the wedding day and the days that led up to it, like the first time you ever met your husband, has brought into your life?

Write down the moments that are good in your life and the ones you have recently experienced leading up to your wedding so that you can go back and reflect on them. This can be your little treasure book that holds your happiness…something that you can stare dreamily at each time you visit. It’s a golden repository of all the good stuff from your past that gives you the ability to recognize the small, everyday things that make you happy. Happiness and “thank you power” aren’t about material objects, but rather the moments in your life that have made you feel that life is good.

Whispers of your Heart
Give thanks… to God, your angels, and the universe…for coming together to bring you love in the form of human love. Whether you endured struggles and hardships along the way, a romantic relationship is what satisfies your heart. Your heart received the affection of another person, and your heart is now complete.

Give thanks…for Free will. Free will is the key ingredient to true love. True love cannot exist without a choice: If you were forced to love a person, then love would disappear, and you would be under manipulation. Your free will matched up perfectly with somebody else’s free will. You & your husband have a will that crossed paths and shared its’ desires freely, locking at a center point of reciprocating love.

Give thanks…for an intimate relationship that developed because of your choice and free will, in spite of all the other opportunities that you could have chosen that would have misled you down the wrong path to love.

Give thanks…for a passionate romance… Your channels are unblocked to allow love to flow freely in to enhance your life. Your earthly relationship with your husband is the avenue of expressing and receiving love

Give thanks…for the life of promise you are now living. A promise of unconditional love and acceptance that you and your spouse share together, which is the ultimate treasure above all other things in life.

Grace and remembrance be to you both.”
– William Shakespeare

The Beauty Behind Custom-Made Dresses

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 enjoy bridal gown shopping (Part 3)

Read Part 1 and Part 2 first

Make an appointment at a store that catches your eye and heart when you’re ready to try gowns on.  While there’s nothing wrong with popping into a bridal shop, you will have a better opportunity (and experience!) for trying anything on when people are available to assist you through an appointment time.  Bridal shops can get extremely busy on weekends, so if you are able to visit or make an appointment for a weekday then you may well be given more time and better service.

And the drumroll for the dreaded word….da da da….BUDGET.  Your budget is your budget and it’s entirely up to you on where you draw the boundary line for going over or under…but do come up with an estimated amount and make sure your consultant/assistant is aware of your range before she shows you options…and before you fall head over heels for your dream dress to later find out its’ triple than the price you plan on paying!  Some bridal stores will offer the option of installment paying.  So do remember to ask if they offer this service.

Also, keep alternation costs in mind.  The standard size you order will be bigger than you expect…and then altered to fit you perfectly.

Adapt the perspective that this is the one single day in your life that is worth spending for, whether you choose to spend a fortune on your gown or not.  Spending a considerable amount on a dress that you fall in love with is fine…don’t compromise your dreams and wishes… and do this while maintaining a healthy balance between budget ranges in mind.

 

MONITOR your Mood

To best do this, make sure you are healthy in your mind, body, and spirit.  The quickest way to balance and/or boost your mood, is through nutrition…the foods you eat.  This is so significant…and is definitely not the time to be starving your self on a way-too-strict diet.

And don’t skip meals on the days you go to fittings because you think that will make it easier for you to squeeze into that teeny tiny sample size.  You need to try dresses on at the size you actually are

This is not the time for fainting from malnutrition or dehydration, so bring some snacks and water along with you while you shop.  You will be on your feet for long periods of time in sometimes hot and stuffy environments…so you will need your energy, patience, and cooperation.  Dress shopping can be exhausting…and you don’t want to get grumpy from being hungry or fatigued from not being properly hydrated– this is not the best mood to be in when you’re searching for your dream dress.

See the next article “How to shop for a dress” on what, and who, to bring along with you while you shop to enrich your experience even further. 

 

Perfect Custom Wedding Dress (Part 2)

Read Part 1 first

 

Keep in mind that this dress is being made for your body. If you plan on losing weight, plan accordingly. Depending on the amount of fabric and detailing involved, altering the gown could get complicated if your weight will change drastically. It is recommended that you have a minimum of three fittings to ensure a great fit. The key points in a garment fitting would be to understand how you want your dress to look and feel. This includes proportion, balance and the focal point. If you are trying to highlight one area, but hide another, this is taken into consideration so the designer can appropriately fit you. Balance is important to make sure your proportional and the dress compliments your body. The focal point on your dress draws the onlooker’s eye. This can be an embellishment, a pop of color, or pretty much any unique accent. From the focal point, the flow of the garment is important. This is where the eye travels to next. Having a garment that doesn’t flow nicely will be quite unpleasing to the eye. Bridal gown needs to have a rhythm, the flow of the garment from the focal point on. The focal point doesn’t necessarily need to be on the dress. It can be the accessories such as jewelry, a train on the gown, the belt, gloves or even a head piece.

The first actual fitting focuses on the silhouette of the gown. A mock dress made of muslin is created for fitting purposes. Once this is approved and fabrics and colors are selected, the actual gown process begins. At the second fitting, the gown, depending on detail, will be close to finished, but not completed yet. Here you will try on the gown and any changes will be documented for final production. The last and final fitting is where the gown you’ve waited so long for is finally complete. Remember to watch your weight during the custom process. Losing too much could be a big problem especially if your gown involves a lot of embellishments. At the same time, gaining weight is equally problematic as the fabric has been cut and the dress has been constructed. It is nearly impossible to add fabric at this stage. Maintaining your weight or at least only losing a few pounds from the first fitting to the last is recommended. At your last fitting, you will have the final product. All the imagining you’ve had to do will be over and your one of a kind gown will be ready for you to take home. Your wedding is now around the corner. Congratulations!

Aleana’s Bridal, Paramus, NJ

Perfect Custom Wedding Dress (Part 1)

So you’ve decided to start the search for the perfect wedding gown. During first few appointments you felt exciting, after you realized how exhausting it is. With all of the different styles and silhouettes it seems as though you’ll never find the exact dress you want. Don’t fret. Rather than spending what seems like centuries browsing racks and trying on yet another ball gown, consider custom made. The beauty of custom made gowns is simple; it’s made just for you. It is a one of a kind. You might have liked the bodice on the first dress you tried on but hated the skirt. At the same time you would have preferred a different neckline. To confuse yourself even more, you really like the belt from the 7th dress but wish it had the colored ribbon like the 13th gown. Stressful! By going the custom route, you’re instantly put at ease knowing you can have all that you wanted made especially for you.

The initial consultation is where you will tell the designer everything you want. This is the time to bring pictures and your imagination. Most people get a bit nervous at this point because they don’t actually have anything concrete to see and feel. Have faith! Remember this is going to be everything that you want; a one of a kind. Once you explain your vision to the designer and you both decide what your gown will look like, a sketch will be drawn. Having this visual will make you a bit more comfortable. White or ivory? Lace and/or beading? Train or no train?  After the sketch is drawn it is time to discuss detailing and fabric. All fabrics have unique qualities that benefit the wearer. For instance, chiffon is light and airy, perfect for warm weather or outside weddings. Other fabrics are ideal for holding in the body and flattering the figure. Be sure to share any concerns you have with the designer so that the designer can recommend the appropriate fabrics.

Continue with Part 2

Aleana’s Bridal, Paramus, NJ

Bridal Gown Spotlight (Part 3)

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

Read first Part 1 and Part 2

 

Gypsy Princess

To stand out as a bride, wear a tiara…or an exclusive, hand-made flower hippie headband to be placed upon your crown…bohemian beautiful.

  REVIEW

It’s all about adding & accessorizing withoutbeing tacky.

 Adding some color :  A wedding dress does not have to be one plain color.  Sometimes adding a splash of color can make your dress stand out of the crowd.  By adding color to your wedding dress, you are making your dress unique and giving it your own style.

Adding a ribbon on the waist can show off your curves and your individuality.  Use the colors of your bridesmaid’s dresses as a clue to the right color, and you will look wonderful together.  Your train could also include a little bit of this color.  Adding a color can be done anywhere including in your hair, with the bouquet, or many other options.  This option is a very modern idea and can translate into some very beautiful pictures. 

 Accessories: A bride’s wedding look is not just about the dress.  The dress is not complete without some accessories.  These can include your hairpiece, bouquet and shoes.  For your hair, you can choose to go with a simple veil, or try something like a crown.  Your shoes complete your look.  If your wedding is on the beach, do not be afraid to go barefoot or in sandals.  The best way to keep your look unique is to have fun and remember that this is your day and you make the rules.  If you want to add accessories to the dress itself, you can add bows, buttons, or other embellishments to the dress.

Unique add-ons to your dress will make the dress seem more like your own. Every bride should have a wedding dress that makes her feel beautiful, but also reflects her own style.  Add or subtract sleeves, add color, and do not forget some accessories and you will have a wedding day look that everyone will remember.

(Refer to article “Love your Body Brides by body-type : what’s your aisle style? For a detailed dress guide & more gown inspiration). 

 

BRIDAL SHOP near WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP BERGEN COUNTY NJ

Aleana’s Bridal is your Bridal Shop near Washington Township, Bergen County, NJ.

Every woman lives to experience that special bridal moment once in her lifetime. Her bridal gown is a symbol of her unique self; a symbol of self-expression that makes a powerful statement in the physical world about her inner nature.

We are proud to offer our Washington Township clients a beautiful bridal collection that offers a variety of novelty silk fabrics, French laces, and handmade embroideries. Every garment can be modified to enhance a beauty of any body type. We keep our clients up to date on the latest launches and trends. Aleana’s Bridal offers a more than convenient production time frame, which is often unheard of in the fashion industry: You can pick up your dress in 3 months, without paying any “rush” order fees!

We have recently expanded our Mother of the Bride collection. You can choose a dress or we can create a perfect gown for  a special occasion. With a library of fabrics and colors to choose from, the possibilities for our Mother of the Bride and special occasion gowns are endless. We can perfectly match the bridal party color scheme if you prefer or we can create something completely unique and different.As the second most important woman at the wedding, our 100% silk fabrications and one of a kind designs will make you feel like royalty.

At our store, it’s all about personalized service. Each appointment will be scheduled for a full hour and half to ensure that you get the attention you need. Personal customer service is readily available and even possible during the wedding day.

After your wedding we will be happy to take your gown back for consignment or further customize it for a future event.

Please call at 201-444-1500 or book your appointment on line at www.aleanasbridal.com.

 

BRIDAL SHOP near FORT LEE BERGEN COUNTY NJ

Aleana’s Bridal is your Bridal Shop near Fort Lee, Bergen County, NJ.

The sounds of wedding bells are just around the corner and you feel a bit of pressure to look your best on the day of the wedding. Finding the right gown instantly eliminates this pressure.

That is what we pride ourselves on here at Aleana’s Bridal. We offer a great personal service to our Fort Lee customers to guide you step by step to select from a wide collection or to create the most wonderful custom gown for that special day.

Choosing the perfect gown is almost as important as choosing the right partner.

Are you tired of going into store after store and falling in love with parts of a dress, but always finding that it isn’t exactly what you want? Do you find yourself obsessing over the color, but hating the silhouette, or loving the top, but hating the skirt?

We invite Mother of the Bride and Mother of the Groom to experience a couture gown making as well. If your moms are tired of shopping around and still could not find a dress that fits, we can help. We make sure that every woman leaves the store satisfied.

With a library of fabrics and colors to choose from, the possibilities for our mother of the bride and special occasion gowns are endless. We can perfectly match the bridal party color scheme if you prefer or we can create something completely unique and different.

As the second most important woman at the wedding, our one of a kind designs will make you feel like royalty.

Book your appointment today and we will guide you to create a dress that is the essence of you. Each appointment will be scheduled for a full hour and half to ensure that you get the attention you need.

Please call us at 201-444-1500 or book your appointment on line at www.aleanasbridal.com.

BRIDAL SHOP near EDGEWATER BERGEN COUNTY NJ

Aleana’s Bridal is your Bridal Shop near Edgewater, Bergen County, NJ.

Aleana’s Bridal 1,200 sq show room is designed to make your experience very pleasant. Experience the triumph of your individual style on that once-in-a-lifetime special day! We will guide you to create a dress as a symbol of your unique self.

We invite our Edgewater customers to come see our  great collection of bridal dresses and sets that are only offered in our Paramus store in Bergen County.  Every garment can be modified to enhance a beauty of any body type. Our gowns are created for the woman who is not afraid to cross boundaries and who enjoys experiencing the triumph of individual style. 

Aleana’s Bridal shop offers a more than convenient production time frame, which is often unheard of in the fashion industry: You can pick up your dress in 3 months, without paying any “rush” order fees!

We have recently expanded our Mother of the Bride collection and proudly extend our custom made services to create the perfect gown for all shapes and sizes. With a library of fabrics and colors to choose from, the possibilities for our Mother of the Bride and special occasion gowns are endless. We can perfectly match the bridal party color scheme if you prefer or we can create something completely unique and different.As the second most important woman at the wedding, our 100% silk fabrications and one of a kind designs will make you feel like royalty.

We also exhibit a wide selection of European lingerie and lounge wear that can only be found at our boutique as well as custom gowns.

Please call us at 201-444-1500 or book your appointment on line at www.aleanasbridal.com.  Each appointment will be scheduled for a full hour and half to ensure that you get the attention you need.  

 

BRIDAL SHOP near TENAFLY BERGEN COUNTY NJ

Aleana’s Bridal is your Bridal Shop near Tenafly, Bergen County, NJ.

bes

Honor, riches, marriage-blessing
Long continuance, and increasing,
Hourly joys be still upon you!”
– William Shakespeare

You found the man of your dreams…now it’s a time to find the wedding dress of your dreams… that perfect bridal gown that is a symbol of unique self.

Aleana’s bridal shop invites you to visit our exclusive bridal store in heart of Paramus, Bergen County, NJ. Our dresses are created for the woman who is not afraid to cross boundaries and who enjoys experiencing the triumph of individual style.  Each garment is designed with an idea of feminine magnificence in mind.  We keep our clients up to date on the latest launches and trends.  This is what will allow our clients to receive the full “bridal package“…the full fashion experience they deserve and desire.

 We are proud to offer our  Tenafly customers personalized one-on-one service, “Made in America” collection, wide selection of novelty high quality silk fabrics, French laces, exclusive handmade embroideries and  silk flowers that only available at our Paramus store. Any dress or accessory can be customize to meet your expectations.

We invite the Mother of the Bride and the Mother of the Groom to visit our store as well to choose a dress from our exclusive dress collection or make one of the kind dress in any fabric and more than 70 available colors. Remember that you are the second most important woman at the wedding and we want you to look that way.

If you are looking for a special gift for your loved one or yourself,  we carry a wide selection of European lingerie, lounge wear, shape wear, custom made accessories and small gifts that can only be found at our boutique. Cannot find a matching bridal shoes? Bring us any plain shoes for a custom embellishment.

Each wedding dress appointment will be scheduled for a full hour and half to ensure that you get the attention you need.

Please book your appointment today at  www.aleanasbridal.com. or call  201-444-1500.