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Customized and DIY Invitations

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Types of Wedding Invitations

There are so many ways to announce the big day to bring excitement. Whether it is customizing your invite, having your own DIY invites or sending it via e-mail – these invitations will be your guests’ introduction to your wedding. Your invitations will give your guests a glimpse of what your wedding day is going to be like, and should represent you and your fiancé’s vision for that special day.

Use bold colors and patterns if you’ve decided to customize the wedding invitations. Pick a bold shade which goes with your wedding theme and you could then select up to three complementary colors from your wedding palette to make your invite stand out from the crowd. For example, hot pink and aqua or plum and deep red go well together. Each color goes well with each season. If it’s a winter wedding, think about combining silver with white and if it’s a summer wedding, go with bright yellow and sunset orange. There are several websites that allow one to choose their style, color, monogram font and more.

If you have a tight budget and have decided to do it yourself by printing the cards at home, the cost of ink and paper will set you back a bit, especially if you swing for high-quality paper stock or heavily-saturated inks. Using your own machines (computer and printer) means making sure that they are working properly and in sync.

If you want to make it very interesting and fun, you could send your guests’ e-invites. Create and design them online and then share it with as many people as you want. Or, use the social network to spread the word and provide links. By doing it this way, you could also add features such as videos and animations, which won’t be possible if you are sending on via post.

For less formal weddings, the simplest and easiest way is definitely word of mouth. It may begin with “Please join us to celebrate,” or “We hope you will join us” just to name a few.

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

 

Wedding Photo Booth

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Wedding Photo Booth – Make this the main focal point of your wedding reception.

There are so many ways for you to capture amazing memories of your wedding day. Putting up a photo booth does not only capture great shots but also keeps your guests entertained. This photo booth is going to capture moments that may not be captured otherwise. People are also very relaxed in the privacy of a photo booth and you are sure to get some really hilarious images of people acting in ways that they might otherwise not. And since they provide photos instantly, these are going to be the very first photos that the bride and groom see after their wedding.

You could hire an attendant that will make sure everything runs smoothly and will explain what to do to your guests. But on the other hand if you do not want to hire one, you could just put up a large sign with instructions for your guests.

Make it fun! Decorate the photo booth according to the theme of your wedding. Encourage group shots! The more the merrier! This is not only a great way to get memorable wedding day photos, but also fun, casual and impromptu photographs! To make the photo booth even more fun and all its pictures even more memorable, place a bunch of cool accessories and props by the photo booth and let the guests go crazy! Anything and everything is allowed – glasses, wigs, hats, feathers, shawls, clown noses, play swords, butterfly wings, signs with funny sayings, bow-ties and more.

Hire the booth for the whole day so that you can capture all of the action. The best time to capture great photos is after dinner when your guests are most relaxed and have got to know one another better. Make sure to get a photo booth that prints both black and white and glossy style color prints as different guests would prefer different styles.

You can save these in a DVD or even create a photo album.

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

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 2

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

Continued…

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

TIP : Aim to look like yourself – just enhanced.

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

Be your Own Makeup Artist: Beauty Bites – Part 1

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Thinking about having a vineyard wedding or a small rustic wedding with just about 15-20 guests? Then why pay $350 for a makeup artist when you can make yourself look beautiful? Instead of pampering yourself by visiting a spa to feel relaxed and refreshed or buy yourself a nice pair of designer footwear. This is a great idea, as, it’s cheaper plus no one knows your features better than you. Also, you wouldn’t want your makeup artist following you to your wedding venue! With that said, being responsible for your own makeup on one of the most photographed days of your life can be intimidating. So here are a few tips from us for your very own special day!

Remember – Play up your makeup for photos!

  • For brides getting married in warmer climates, consider using as many oil-free products as possible: primer/moisturizer. Cleanse and moisturize properly before applying the primer. This is very important as it’ll make your make up go smoother and last much longer. You’re going to have a long day ahead of you, and you want your makeup to last you all day.
  • If you’re doing your own makeup, practice and take pictures before the big day. Start with less because it is easier to add more if you need it, rather than having to remove excess makeup which can get messy.
  • Always apply your foundation with a sponge or a brush. Never use your fingers as bacteria and dirt can be left behind. If you use a sponge, use by stippling the sponge, not swiping it across the skin. This gives your foundation a more natural look and blends it more evenly into the skin.
  • Your moisturizer, primer, and foundation are going to hide imperfections such as dark spots or uneven skin tone.
  • Add a creamy concealer. This may not be oil-free as it might get dry and cakey throughout the day.
  • Give your face a sharper look by contouring and highlighting your cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead.

For further tips and complete makeup look, read “Beauty Bites- Part 2” on our website.

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

 

Fairy Tale Romance Trend

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Wedding Gowns Trends

Here is the ultimate guide to your wedding dress/gown shopping next season. The Wedding Dress Collection is all about illusion necklines, exposed backs and open décolleté, revealing a tantalizing amount of bare skin. Four major themes were seen at the New York fashion week this year. This article consists of the first theme:

Fairy tale Romance (Ball Gown) – The Cinderella gown is a gorgeous work of art created with the classic fairy-tale in mind. This silhouette is a perfect fit to be a princess for the most perfect evening. Designers focused on delicate bodices, dramatically cut to the waist.

Design Details– Sheer cutouts with deep necklines and backs discreetly expose a peek of skin.

Materials and Embellishments – Beautiful and delicate elements added on the backs such as buttons, sequences and embellishments on these satin, tulle and lace dresses look stunning and give it a glamorous and romantic look. And when paired with long sleeves, these details are going to give an elegant and seductive look.

This season sees sweeping ball gowns enhanced by 3D applications and illusion embellishments – available at our store.

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

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.

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.

Wedding Shoe Ideas You’ll Love

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Still need to find your wedding shoes for your big day? Whether you plan to rock a pair of bedazzled stilettos or want to keep your look chic with fabulous flats, here you will be able to start getting inspired with some of our favorite styles!

1. Lace 

Feminine and flirty lace is the perfect finishing detail to a romantic bridal look. If you are looking for a more modernized shoe, try a pair of lace peep-toe heels or booties. Lace heels will go fantastic with any season your wedding happens to fall in.

2. Metallics 

Spice up your glam factor and sparkle with chic metallics. Gold and silver metallic heels are sleek and modern, while elevating your style. For the modern bride with a modern gown these shoes are more than ideal.

3. Something Different 

Play with unexpected color to show off your fun and vibrant side. Try bold mint or electric blue, this will make a statement and pop in your wedding photos! This shoe is perfect for an outdoor wedding preferably during the spring and summer.

4. Bedazzled 

 Looking for that extra wow factor? A little bit of bedazzle will go a long way. A pair of shimmering shoes polishes off an already glamorous gown. Bedazzled shoes will go best with that happily ever after castle venue where your wedding will be held.

5. Cutouts 

Forget glitter and lace- shoes with intricate cutouts, and textured designs will be sure to catch everyone’s eye! These shoes are excellent for a spring or summer wedding because of their breathable cutouts.

6. Fabulous Flats

You can still look gorgeous while wearing a pair of comfy flats. With a limitless selection from sleek, pointed toe, to crochet flats. Having amazing style does not have to come with pain. Finally, fabulous flats are amazing for the bride who is ready to dance the night away on her big day!

Reference:  Pictures credit to Paradox London

Shoes available for a purchase at Aleana’s Bridal. 

How to have a Winter Wedding (Part 2)

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

Whatever it be a crimson red nutcracker or a deep, blue wintery night sky…. It’s all about what winter means to YOU. 

Choose an indoor venue that gives off that winter vibe with a natural landscape: lakefront venues with a beautiful view, a romantic inn with a cozy fireplace, venues in the mountains like a ski lodge, historic mansion, or a banquet hall with big windows.

TIP! : Windows showcasing a snowy landscape is an effortless visual that will complement your photos making them pop against the white, bold backdrop of the glistening snow, reflecting an added natural glitter to your space.  Bold colors look even better when surrounded by a white backdrop…so keep this in mind when choosing color schemes throughout the venue, bridesmaid dresses, and maybe even adding a bold colored, sassy sash to really make your white wedding gown pop with a dash of color.

Color the chill

Infuse the atmosphere with warmth by incorporating your favorite tones to be complimented by the proper lighting.  Christmas reds & greens, reds & gold for a more elegant look, gold and apple greens for a bright, crisp color theme, traditional bright white with silver accents, frosted light blue hues and whites, shades of bluish greens accented by white or silver, and even metallic mixes of gold and silver…all of which can be color options for winter.

 

TIP! : Want to add some extra sparkle…and warmth?  Using a subtle touch of blue light will add shimmer to the room.  Glassware and linens will reflect the light in a way that will add a simple sparkle, rather than an overwhelming accent of color.

 

Daylight Savings, Strategic Lighting: Keep in mind that the winter season has shorter days, as it gets darker in these months, so you will want to plan your lighting practically.  Arrange for your ceremony to conclude by an earlier time in the afternoon so that the day still offers you enough light to explore the option of capturing photos outdoors if you wish.

 

Considering that it gets darker earlier, the use of candles and lights at the reception can really amp up the intimacy & warmth into creating a comfortable & cozy atmosphere for you & all your guests.

 

Dancing wicks & wax & flames: Warm up the winter setting by including accents of the element of fire…as in candles…and even a fierce fireplace if your venue offers you the option.  For a glam candlelight look, go for white or silver candles.  Feeling more rustic?  Use candles with birch holders.  Feeling magical? Suspend candles above the tables using invisible wires to make them appear to be dreamily floating in mid-air.

 

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