Stellina Events

The Stellina Events blog has moved!!!

2010-06-24T11:08:00.001-07:00

The Stellina Events blog has now moved to www.stellinaevents.com/blog or click here to be redirected.

Thanks!

Always,

Amanda

xoxo

Spotlight on: OPALIA FLOWERS

2010-06-07T07:21:00.000-07:00

Opalia Flowers is one of my favorite flower shops in New York. Owned and managed by the wonderful Phoebe Crary, the shop is just gorgeous and the perfect spot to brainstorm your wedding flowers with Phoebe and her team of very talented florists.

Phoebe is so lovely to work with. She is sweet, smart and really understands that each couple is looking for something special for their wedding.

At Opalia Flowers, they take the time to get to know each bride and groom, their priorities and their style, so that they can create stunning, personal floral designs just for them.

Whether you are looking for a romantic bouquet with just a touch of Parisian charm...

or centerpieces that are soft, elegant and graceful...

or a beautiful chuppah with cherry blossoms...

even bright, summery, island chic designs...they can do it all!

The flower shop is so pretty and cozy. It is a great place to draw inspiration and get that personal touch.

To visit Opalia Flowers or contact them to set up a meeting for your wedding, you can find them at:

Opalia Flowers
718.643.9160
377 Atlantic Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11217
http://www.opaliaflowers.com/

Madeleine and Tora's engagement shoot in Prospect Park is on Style Me Pretty!

2010-06-03T08:46:00.000-07:00

You may recall Madeleine and Tora's engagement shoot in Battery Park, NY a few weeks ago. Well, the first part of their shoot that I styled as well and was photographed by Jen Huang actually took place in Prospect Park including a walk through the forest, down by the lake and a bit of playful fun in the meadows.

To read the article all about their shoot on Style Me Pretty, please click here.

My inspiration for this shoot came from a photograph that I saw of a girl in a meadow. It was so beautiful and with Madeleine's gorgeous, soft, graceful natural beauty, I thought that an enchanted forest would be the perfect ambience for her romance with Tora.

In order to create their enchanted forest, I began by scouting locations and Prospect Park in Brooklyn, New York was an easy decision with its open meadows, tons of green forest-like spaces, duck ponds, waterfalls - it offered a ton of options for photos.

The next step was finding the perfect gown for Madeleine (aka: Maddy). She adores gem tones and this long flowing gown by 57 Grand looked just wonderful on her and suited the aesthetic perfectly! The rasberry color also looked amazing against the green of the trees.

Marcos Diaz from Ion Studio NYC did an amazing job giving Maddy soft, luscious curls. While Linsey at Facetime Beauty brought out all of Maddy's gorgeous features and natural beauty.

With Tora, we wanted his suit to compliment Maddy's gown. While he came all dressed up a great navy suit and blue shirt, I immediately ran to the tie rack and grabbed a pink tie to give his ensemble a bit of a pop! and to bring out the pink in her gown.

Kat Flower did a wonderful job creating the perfect bouquet for Maddy. The whole idea behind the bouquet was to create a bouquet that looked like Maddy had just randomly picked flowers during her walk in the meadow. I gave Kat the color scheme for the engagement shoot and asked her to make sure that it fits the look and feel - and it does, so well!

As for the pretty daisy chain in Maddy's hair - that was completely improvised! While we were shooting by the peninsula pond, I saw a bunch of daisies in the grass and decided Maddy just had to have a daisy chain. She loved the idea so we went with it.

Kristin and Jeffrey's wedding featured in the New York Daily News!

2010-06-01T13:15:00.001-07:00

I am so excited to say that Kristin and Jeffrey's vintage 1940s wedding was just featured in the Daily News on Sunday, May 23rd on the "Down the Aisle" page. Click on the photo below to read the article and learn more about these fabulous newlyweds.

My Top 4 Tips on Favors

2010-05-28T15:27:00.000-07:00

I have such sweet memories from when I was a little girl when my parents would come home late at night from weddings of our italian friends and neighbors. They would always arrive all dressed up with a little pouch of pastel colored Jordan almonds. I loved them then and I love them still today!

The reason that brides and grooms traditionally give Jordan almonds or any almonds that have a sugar coating is that fresh almonds have a bittersweet taste, which represents life. The sugarcoating is added with the hope that the newlyweds' life will be more sweet than bitter.

Different cultures - Italian, Greek, Middle Eastern - each have their own versions of the tradition. But that is just what it is - a symbolic tradition filled with hope and celebration.

Today, favors are much more complex. A lot of couples give favors either because they really want to thank their guests for coming to their wedding or because favors are cute or even because they feel like they have to...like it is a must at a wedding to have a personalized favor with their names and wedding date on them.

I believe that favors are meant to be a little thank you gift to your guests for sharing such a special day with you. They are a little extension of your big day for your guests to bring home with them.

Here are my top four tips on the world of favors:

1. Make them personal
Being a thank you gift, the favors should be personal, not necessarily personalized, but definitely personal. Think of who you are a couple. If you love cupcakes, set up a cupcake stand for guests to bring 1 or 2 cupcakes of their choice home. You could do the same with cookies or fruit tarts from your favorite bakery. If you and your fiance adore wine and are getting married in a vineyard, give each couple a bottle of wine that you love from that vineyard. If you are music lovers, give them something music-related like a cd with your favorite songs.

2. Bring in your culture.
If you and your fiance are from different cities, states or countries, go ahead and give something from where you are from. For example, at a wedding that I recently planned and designed, the bride was from Iceland and the groom's family was from South Africa so we gave out chocolates from Iceland and South Africa labelling each basket of goodies with the country that they came from.

3. It is not about the price.
Sure there are expensive favors and less expensive ones but that isn't really the point. Delicious chocolate chip cookies baked by your aunt and tied up in a little clear bag with a pretty bow are just as personal (and taste just as great) as your favorite bottle of wine with a gorgeous personalized label. So think about what is meaningful to you and your groom-to-be as well as what fits within your budget.

4. You do not need favors.
Don't feel pressured to give favors. Spending money on low cost, impersonal trinkets with your names on them will take money away from the rest of your budget and who knows where the favors will end up? If you don't have the time to brainstorm about the perfect favor or to create or buy personal favors and you would prefer to spend that part of your budget getting a better photographer, florist or band - then do it! At the end of the day, your guests have come to see you get married and share this joyous occasion with you and that is what they care about.

Here are some favors that I just love and people to work with who really do an amazing job at creating favors specific to you and your groom.

The unique, personal candy tables and favors designed to fit with your wedding style by the lovely, talented Jackie of Merci New York. Jackie creates favors and welcome baskets based on all of your favorite things and personalizes them as well!

A personalized wine bottle label and cigar by the fabulous Marina and Stacey of East Six. Take a look at the previous article I wrote all about East Six.

These are map tote bags created by Laura Hooper, who also does outstanding calligraphy. These are a great gift for a destination wedding or a wedding where most of your guests are coming from a different location. Check our my previous article on Laura.

Where to stay on your honeymoon: THE DATAI, Langkawi, Malaysia

2010-05-26T08:57:00.000-07:00

A few years ago I have the wonderful opportunity to go to The Datai in Langkawi, Malaysia. It is an abolutely spectacular hotel with breathtaking views that rendered me speechless, amazingly relaxed and sated.

The Datai is tucked in the middle of an ancient tropical rainforest, on the northwestern tip of Langkawi with a secluded white sand beach facing the calm Andaman Sea.

It truly is the perfect spot for a honeymoon especially if you are looking to relax with a fresh mango cocktail on the white sands, swim in the warm waters and enjoy the quiet time.

The Datai has one of my favorites spas as it is in the midst of the rainforest. I would highly recommend the Datai Jade massage as a couples massage. It is a dynamic style to dissolve deep muscle tension and soothe the spirit. You will each have two therapists working of each of you in synchronized movements using a variety of massage techniques from around the globe including Japanese Shiatsu, Ancient Balinese, Traditional Thai and Hawaiian Lomi-Lomi. It is just heavenly with the sounds of the stream outside.

If you are looking for a bit of adventure during your exotic trip to Malaysia, definitely spend 2-3 days in Penang as well. Penang is just a boat trip away from Langkawi and offers a dynamic combination of Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim cultures, temples and foods.

In fact, Penang is one of my favorite places in the world as far as food goes. You have an enormous selection of cuisines to tempt your palate from Malaysian hawker and Chinese seafood and fish dishes (go to Bali Hai! across from the water) to Indian curries and Japanese restaurants. So scrumptious!

Bon voyage!!!

POPPIES & POSIES: The perfect team to create a beautiful garden- or vintage-inspired wedding!

2010-05-24T15:15:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to feature Poppies & Posies this week. The co-founders, Sierra and Juliet, are so sweet and lovely. Their style is absolutely precious and enchanting.

A bit about Poppies & Posies...

Poppies & Posies is a boutique floral and event design firm based in New York City. Sierra and Juliet, met when they both moved to the Big Apple in 2007. Sierra had been planning events for bigwigs like the Learning Annex and Donald Trump) while Juliet was working at places like Martha Stewart and Surroundings Flowers.

One day, they got to talking, and decided to combine their love for design, flowers, and parties. And so... Poppies & Posies was born!

Every detail of their fabulous fetes is meticulously designed and, whenever possible, handcrafted. Their arrangements are inspired by the organic movement and composition of the country gardens that both girls spent sunny summer days in as children. They love what they do and hope you will too!

A bit about their weddings...

They work on weddings of all sizes from 30 guests to 300 guests. They are happy to help clients design their weddings to fit any aesthetic. Their favorites are those that incorporate vintage elements and/or country inspired design concepts.

They love being challenged and pushed to create new ideas that fit each bride and groom's individual styles. For example, they are currently working on a design concept that will use vintage tins, but in a fresh and modern way.

Sierra and Juliet work in venues all across NYC, upstate New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. This summer they are most excited to be designing weddings at the Foundry, Brooklyn Academy of Music, Guastavinos, Stamford Museum & Nature Center, and the City Winery.

If you are looking to create the sweetest, most romantic garden- or vintage-inspired wedding, run, don't walk to the phone! No excuses!

Poppies & Posies

646.386.7347

poppiesandposies@gmail.com

Romona Keveza Trunk Show at Bridal Reflections, NYC

2010-05-20T06:01:00.000-07:00

Bridal Reflections and Romona Keveza invite you to meet designer Orlando of Romona Keveza as he unveils the Fall 2010 bridal collection straight off the runway.

When: Thursday, May 27th through Saturday, May 29th 2010
Designer appearance: Saturday, May 29th
Where: Bridal Reflections, 260 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10001 (between 28th and 29th St)

There will be special pricing on the gowns, so if you love Romona Keveza designs, definitely go check it out!

To RSVP and make an appointment, please call 212.764.3040

The Belgian Wafel Truck

2010-05-19T08:13:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I lived in Brussels, Belgium for five years. During my time there I fell in love with the warm, sweet, chewy, perfect waffles (aka: wafels) that you can buy from the waffle trucks.

Well, I am ecstatic to say that all New Yorkers can now enjoy authentic belgian waffels as well thanks to the Wafels and Dinges - Good Things Belgian waffle truck.

With all of the late night snacks that you can offer your wedding guests, why not surprise them and order a belgian waffle truck? Or have the truck make a visit to a bridal shower or bachelorette to add some more fun and food for your guests with a sweet tooth?

There is the Liege wafel that is my personal favorite, which are the ones from the trucks in Belgium that I adored.

Then there is the rectangular Brussels wafel that you can top with strawberries and whipped cream or ice cream or speculoos spread (a creamy spread based on speculoos cookies that have spices and clove) or a number of other toppings (aka: dinges). Wafels and Dinges even offers bacon and syrup wafels!

To try the wafels out for yourself, check out where you can find them in NYC on their website.

Smakelijk!!! Bon appetite!!! (Enjoy!!!)

HOW TO: Style an engagement shoot...

2010-05-17T17:02:00.000-07:00

I have recently been styling a number of engagement shoots and thought it would be really helpful to give you some pointers on how to make your shoot unique to you and just as fabulous and wall-worthy as your wedding photographs.

Last Friday, Jen Huang of Jen Huang Photography posted the following question from another photographer on her Facebook page and I believe that it is really helpful for all of you brides and grooms who will be taking engagement shoots...

Q: How do you avoid shooting engagement sessions that look like every other engagement shoot you've done?

A: Figure out what's special to your bride and groom and style it in a way that brings out what is special about them. Photographers who are successful are usually expert stylists and directors as well. For example,... I just shot an engagement for a bride and groom who loved travel. Instead of just telling them to do "whatever" I showed them the recent Anthropologie catalogue which was shot in India, and pretty much dressed them and styled them to get that look. You have to find the balance between dictating the style and being too casual. Many of my brides and grooms look to me for guidance, and we talk extensively about their engagement before hand.

Now, this being said, do keep in mind that typically you will just set a date with your photographer for the shoot and decide on a location, whether it be your apartment or house, a park or somewhere else. It is really up to you to make the shoot amazing and original.

Here are some tips on how to style your shoot if you aren't already working with a professional wedding stylist:

1. Find your style.

Think about what story you want to tell. For example:

How did the two of you meet? What are your favorite pastimes?

Do you love to travel to Europe and love art? Maybe your shoot should be inspired by your favorite paintings.

Are you a food and wine lover? Maybe your story should be told through visiting vineyards or going to your local green market (preferable when it isn't so busy) and then cooking together.

Do you love to read and both love vintage everything? Then the library or second hand book shop combined with an antique look and feel would be perfect.

2. Pick a location.

What is your favorite spot in your city and town? Outdoor photos tend to look more amazing than indoors as the natural light looks gorgeous...so think about what buildings, homes, parks, streets you love and tell your story with photographs from the outside.

Do you want photos on cobblestone streets or in front of brownstones? What about an old plantation home or a farm? A big lake in a park? The steps of your local museum? Select a location that fits with the look and feel you are going for.

3. What to wear?

What type of outfits work best with your overall style and theme? If you are going vintage like Mad Men, maybe a bigger skirt would do or a fitted dress. You could bring your fiance to Brooks Brothers for Mad Men inspired suits.

Or if you are looking for casual elegance and are shooting on a boat, think polo shirts for your man with linen trouser and a cute summer dress with a sweater for you.

4. It's all about the props...

Just like in the theater, props always help to tell the story. Having a cappucino in a cafe, riding bikes through the park, riding horses, reading a book, smelling a bouquet of flowers - these are just some of the many ideas that you could think of. Just make sure that it helps you to tell your own personal story...

5. Be colorful.

While the LBD (little black dress) is a staple part of every girl's wardrobe, I don't believe that it is the best choice for photographs since it keeps them dark and doesn't add much to the story.

Try to choose a color so that the photos have flavor. For example, if you and your fiance wear all light colors and are against a lighter backdrop with pastel colored props, then your photos will have a softer, more romantic, spring/summer feel whilst if you are both in deeper, jewel tones, your photographs will seem more dramatic fall/winter feel.

Photo above is by Jen Huang Photography.

Spotlight on: JEN HUANG PHOTOGRAPHY

2010-05-14T13:35:00.000-07:00

Allow me to begin with this: I love Jen Huang Photography.

Gorgeous, fine art photos that capture every detail and expression are Jen's specialty. Jen is one of the loveliest people that I have had the pleasure to work with and her talent it extraordinary.

Jen's photos are for the romantic - they tell the stories of each unique couple beautifully with a soft, artistic sensibility.

Jen works in New York, California and does Destination Weddings wherever you like!

Her portfolio includes both digital and film work and she is known for her fresh, clean and light filled images. Jen's brides and grooms love her unobtrusive style and attention to composition and detail in every photograph.

Recently Jen's work has been featured in BRIDES New York Magazine, Get Married Magazine, The Knot Magazine, Style Me Pretty, Brooklyn Bride, Wedding Chicks and Style Unveiled.

Top 4 Tips on how to stay happy & sane before your wedding...

2010-05-13T08:35:00.000-07:00

Lifestyle Choices

Stress kills. Job pressure, financial obligations, family drama and a Blackberry that won’t quit all add up to a negative impact on your life - not to mention looking good in front of everyone you know!

In your preparations, begin to set personal parameters and give yourself time to just breath.

Here are four steps to help prepare you for the big day and make sure that you can enjoy it since this is a wonderful time in your life!!!

1. Sleep is paramount in staying healthy and we don’t get enough of it.

Shut down the electronics a couple hours before bed, read a book or enjoy a hot bath. Quality sleep cannot be swallowed or purchased. Build your own sleep cave – a dark, cool room, no TV and all the eye masks and ear plugs it takes to get you at least 7 hours of shut-eye.

2. Breathe. Meditate. Do yoga.

Stress manifests itself in our physical body and doing Yoga or learning how to breathe properly will help you manage your load.

3. Learn to say, “no.”

Date night with your fiancée should have rules…no Blackberries and no cell phones. Protect your personal time.

4. Lean on your friends and family.

Weddings are stressful and it is nice to know that so many people care about you. People will offer to help. Take them up on it, even if it is just for coffee.

Til next time - stay happy and healthy...
Kevin

Top 5 Tips for your Wedding Workout

2010-05-10T09:18:00.000-07:00

Exercise is The Catalyst of Change

The human body was meant to move and yours will reward you when you take care of it. You do not need to join a gym or hire a trainer, but you will need to put more physical stress on your body than your current daily grind, if you want to see aesthetic changes.

Here are my top 5 tips to get you started:

1. Calendar your workouts.

Whether it is walking three times per week or meeting with your trainer, treat your exercise as an appointment you cannot reschedule. This will help keep you accountable and consistent.

2. Too social to exercise? Get a physical hobby – dance, ski, or join a kickball team...

Make your fitness social. The bottom line is that your body can’t tell the difference between doubles tennis or tackle football as long as you are working hard. The important thing is that you are being active.

3. Lift weights.

Load bearing exercise causes stress to the body, builds bone density and muscle as well as burns body fat. Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity. Once again, think long-term. You won't be wedding ready after just one workout.

4. Intervals are key and intensity is your friend.

Do not get sucked into the ‘cardio is king’ theory of fitness. It is not your goal to break the treadmill from overuse. Work harder for shorter periods of time, be sure to include full-body exercises.

5. You cannot spot reduce, so stop trying.

People hold fat where they were genetically programmed too. The common denominator in getting rid of it and making physical changes, is to work the big muscles first…squats, dead lifts, lunges, presses. Regardless of where your fat is, it cannot hide from these metabolic boosters.

Next up: Lifestyle choices...

Until next time,
Kevin

Top Five Tips for Wedding Nutrition

2010-05-06T06:47:00.000-07:00

Nutrition is the Foundation
It is no secret that if you want a more toned wedding dress figure, you MUST pay attention to what you are eating and drinking.

Food should be thought of as fuel to build muscle, help burn bodyfat and energize you for the task at hand.

Whether your current consumption has you eating organically or living on fast food, here are some things to consider in trying to eat better to look better:

1. Do not drink your calories.

Water is the base of a healthy body, drink lots of it – it will flush your system and keep you hydrated. A good rule of thumb is to consume half of your bodyweight in ounces of water per day. Try to avoid diet sodas, fruit juices, sports drinks or anything else that is not a “clear” beverage.

2. Eat ‘whole’ foods, meaning unprocessed and minimally handled.

When making your dining decisions, choose the option that looks like it could be found in nature. Frozen dinners and canned chili are not on the list.

3. Avoid the ‘white death,’ especially sugar.

Processed foods, sodas, pasta, white breads and alcohol. They all have sugar and they will make you fat.

4. Graze all day.

Lots of small meals comprised of lean proteins, fresh fruit and vegetables and some nuts and seeds.

5. Eat good fats – olive oils, avocados, nuts and seeds.

It satiates you and adds flavor to your diet.

Next up: Exercise...

Til next time,

Kevin

Wedding Workout: Getting started

2010-05-05T10:49:00.000-07:00

T-Minus Wedding Day

Preparing to look your best for your wedding day is more involved than just counting calories and doing sit-ups.

Unfortunately, we don’t always have the time or resources to do everything we want to prepare. But, if you address the major areas of nutrition, exercise and lifestyle, you can do very well even in a very short time.

In this series of articles, I will focus on introducing you to the three key elements for your prepping to look amazing in your wedding gown:

1. Nutrition

2. Exercise

3. Lifestyle Choices

Next up: Nutrition...

Til next time,
Kevin

Madeleine and Tora's NYC Engagement Shoot is on Merci New York!!!

2010-05-04T06:52:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to say that the engagement shoot that I just styled and planned for the lovely Madeleine and Tora has now been posted on Merci New York, a gorgeous wedding blog focusing on all of the chic and stylish necessities for the busy city bride.

To read all about Madeleine and Tora's shoot on Stone Street in the Financial District and to learn their story that takes place all around the world (Japan, UK, Belgium, and finally NYC), please click here.

Stay tuned for their upcoming June 5th wedding that will take place at Madeleine's grandfather's farm in Lexington, Kentucky - Mint juleps, seersucker suits and chiffon, oh my!

Thanks to everyone who helped out on this amazing shoot - Jen Huang Photography, Nine Cakes, Kat flower , 57 Grand (dress), Marcos Diaz (hair), and Face Time Beauty (makeup).

Bridal Fitness week with Kevin!

2010-05-03T06:42:00.000-07:00

This week all of our articles will focus on getting in shape for your wedding.

Kevin will be briefing everyone on the core elements of what your bridal fitness and health regime should be based on.

Stay tuned...

Exclusive 1-day sale on Pronovias Cocktail Gowns - May 6th in NYC

2010-04-30T12:06:00.000-07:00

Attention ladies!!! There is an amazing sale going on at Pronovias at their Flagship store in New York on May 6th.

Their cocktail gowns are pretty outstanding...I may even go there myself!

If you are looking for spectacular bridesmaid gowns, mother of the bride gowns or going to a black tie affair soon yourself, definitely make an appointment for the sale.

Pronovias is also having their bridal trunk show today and tomorrow for their 2011 collections.

You can either set up your appointment online or give them a call to book your appointment at 212.897.6393.

Happy shopping!

xoxo,
Amanda

Spring Studio Sale Today at ARTIKAL!

2010-04-28T06:57:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to say that Artikal is having a studio sale for their spring and winter hats today.

I am a huge devotee to Artikal hats and hair pieces having given them as gifts in the past (my friend Christie of City Girls World) as well as styling brides (like the fabulous Kristin) with their amazing bridal collection!

This could be a great opportunity for you to find amazing hats and cocktail pieces to give to your bridesmaids. They are stylish and fit all different types of looks. Take a look below at some of their hats and their bridal pieces - just love them...

Spring Studio Sale
TODAY, Thursday, April 29th from 6:30pm - 9:30 pm
All Spring and Winter hats on Sale
Website orders receive 10% off this week
(to redeem orders must be called in using the code: Spring Sale)

Call Artikal to make an appointment for the sale today: 212-260-0278 or 917-940-9294

Artikal is located at:
510 East 12th street Basement between A and B, NYC

I love BOHO Mag...

2010-04-26T12:05:00.000-07:00

Vogue was always my favorite magazine growing up until I hit my 20s when, due to my wanderlust, I fell for Conde Nast Traveller. Upon my move to NYC last year, I lived by Elle Decor in order to furnish my new apartment with my husband and puppy.

The other day I came across another new fave - a magazine called Boho.

As a wedding designer, planner and a personal stylist to the bride and groom for their big day, I get my inspiration from everything I come across on a daily basis.

Boho, which is about all things green and sustainable from fashion and travel to beauty and food, is definitely a source of inspiration.

Their Spring 2010 issue focuses on "springtime in Paris". The design of the magazine is amazing - pretty, delicate and pink. It is, in fact, what caught my eye sitting on the shelf amongst all of the other publications.

With tons of info on where to buy one of my favorite delights - the french macaron - as well as a precious frenchy-inspired photoshoot (a great idea for an engagement shoot girls!), and the latest on Parisian street style, there are a ton of possibilities on how to weave some of these bits and pieces into your upcoming wedding if you are going for French-styling and decor or just some cute accents to make your wedding more unique and, of course, environmentally friendly.

I can't wait to see what Boho has coming up for Summer 2010...I am secretly hoping for a Tuscan-themed issue...though not a secret anymore! :)

Go out and buy the latest issue at your newstand or if you can't find it locally, count it as part of your wedding planning and order a subscription.

I will leave you today with their definition of a Boho girl:

Free. Radical. Independent.

Her style is her own.

It's personal, existential.

Her only fear is convention.

Her only weakness, shoes.

The bump on her nose adds character,

the scar on her shoulder adds strength,

the curl in her hair adds attitude.

There is no such thing as imperfection,

just originality.

Unmovable, Unshakeable, Unstoppable,

She is America's next top role model.

Someone both inspired and inspiring.

She embraces her spirituality,

aspires to her dreams,

lives through her passions.

She is a world changer.

She is bohemian.

She is a boho girl.

We are on the Ruffled Blog!

2010-04-23T14:25:00.000-07:00

I am very pleased to say that Kristin and Jeffrey's wedding is currently being featured on the Ruffled Blog. I loved working with Kristin and Jeffrey.

They are such a wonderful couple and I thoroughly enjoyed desiging and planning their wedding as well as styling them for their big day!

Take a look at the feature on Ruffled and read all about their story...

I will also write a detailed story all about their wedding shortly so stay tuned!

Spotlight on VERA WANG, SPRING 2011 COLLECTION

2010-04-21T02:12:00.000-07:00

Last Friday evening I had the fortune to go to one of Vera Wang's Open House events in her NY flagship boutique in celebration of her Spring 2011 Collection, thanks to the wonderful Deborah Lauren of City Sweets & Confections.

I have to say, I was amazed by the collection. The gowns were not just wedding gowns. They were pieces of art, like a Botticelli.

The detail was beguiling - from the asymmetrical gathering to the ornate bodices, handpainted lace and fluffy tulle.

You couldn't help but stare and touch and desperately desire to try one on and magically start dancing a perfect Viennese waltz like Sleeping Beauty around an enchanted garden or spectacular ballroom.

See the beauty for yourself below...

On a side note, I have to say, Deborah's cupcakes at the event (along with the champagne) were the perfect compliment to Vera's gowns...fluffing frosting and moist cake that was delicious and incredibly addictive.

Beauty Q&A with Laura

2010-04-19T06:38:00.000-07:00

Question: I want to try a smokey eye for my wedding but am afraid of looking too vampy or over the top... Any suggestions?

Laura's Answer: A lot of people ask me this question and there are other ways to achieve a smokey eye without feeling like it is too much or you are not looking like yourself.

For a subtle smokey eye but still looking sultry - try medium to dark grey tones with a thick lash, using charcoal or grey colored pencils instead of black. Try phone number, or engraved pencils by M-A-C, or scene, sketch, and print eye shadows by M-A-C too.

Dior makes a palette called mystic smokys that gives a range of color to work with for a sexy smoky eye.

Also, using a bit of a shimmery color in the center of the eyelid adds a nice touch as well.

Cheers!
LP

MAC Phone number

MAC Print

MAC Sketch

DIOR Mystic Smokys

Welcome Kevin!!! Stellina's new fitness expert and personal trainer

2010-04-15T07:06:00.001-07:00

I am thrilled to announce that Kevin Steinmuller has joined the Stellina Events blog team of experts. Based in Park Slope, New York City, Kevin is an amazing personal trainer whose expertise is in strength training and classical pilates.

I use the word amazing because he is actually my personal trainer as well as my husband's. As you probably don't know, I have been exercising for ages - literally ages - from about the age of 15. When the gym and I have a good relationship, I go 4-5 days a week and do 45 minutes of cardio followed every other session with 45 minutes of weight training.

When I met Kevin he congratulated me on all of this hard work. However, I quickly realized that he was, as the English say "Taking the piss" or as we here in the US say - He was joking. Kevin's method is more about seeing results than about how much time I put into the gym. So now I go about 4 days a week to the gym and spend one hour or less but rather than watching tv on my favorite elliptical or bike, I spend it working out crazy hard but the results speak for themselves.

How are the results, you ask? Well, within just two weeks, I was able to feel tons more confident putting on one of my bikinis and suiting up for partying poolside. In other words - I was shocked and incredibly pleased. My husband, in addition to a better diet, lost 18 pounds working out with Kevin in just 7 weeks.

How can Kevin help you ladies? He knows how to give you wedding arms!!! In his entries here on the Stellina blog, Kevin will give you pointers on exercise techniques, nutrition and everything regarding wedding fitness and health.

Kevin is also a big fan of staying healthy - in other words, no starvation diets here and please do stay away from the scales. He is smart and really knows his stuff. I am amazed and I hope that you will be too! Can you just imagine being able to get to your ideal wedding figure while being healthy and happy? I know - it sounds pretty shocking but he knows how to make it happen.

Originally from New York City, Kevin was one of the top trainers in the San Francisco Bay Area. He is now back in NY and we are thrilled to have him.

I think that it is Kevin’s holistic approach to physical conditioning that sets him apart from other trainers out there. Incorporating the Classical Pilates repertoire with world-class strength & conditioning programming makes his programs not only unique, but also phenomenally efficient, which is exactly what I have experienced.

Kevin is a Classically Trained Pilates Instructor who holds the NSCA-CSCS, along with CrossFit and kettlebell coaching certifications.

Let's all give a warm welcome to Kevin for joining the Stellina team!!!

Stay tuned for Kevin's first post...

An elegant Vegas wedding - yes, I did say "elegant"!

2010-04-12T10:23:00.000-07:00

I have just returned from a fabulous surprise birthday trip that I planned for my husband, Michal, to Nevada and Arizona. It was a blissful, adventurous and super fun four-day adventure.

I spent months crafting the perfect trip to the desert as I had never been to Nevada or Arizona previously. It turns out that the hotel was an enormous success!

We stayed at the Four Seasons in Las Vegas, which is directly above the Mandalay Bay Hotel. The Four Seasons was a peaceful escape from the craze that is Vegas. It gave us the perfect combination of relaxation and harmony to juxtapose the party-filled landscape of the city.

The hotel hosts beautiful weddings outside in their gardens on the Fountain Terrace and by the pool area that is full of luscious tropical trees, plants and waterfalls.

In addition, if you are looking to beat the summer heat, there is the Acacia Ballroom, the Four Seasons Ballroom and the Palm Lounge for indoor ceremonies and receptions.

The service at the hotel was top notch and the food was delicious, especially their chocolate cake. Overall, the hotel was definitely worth all five stars!

So if you are thinking of a Vegas wedding but want it to be more chic and pretty rather than an Elvis-ordained event, you must check out the Four Seasons...

In addition, I would recommend organizing a Sunday brunch at the Bellagio in their Jasmine restaurant. It was to die for!

Spotlight on MONIQUE LHUILLIER

2010-04-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

When I look at Monique Lhuillier's Spring 2010 and Fall 2010 lines I see texture, texture, texture.

For spring it is soft while there is more structure and depth to the fall designs.

In any case, all of the designs are beautiful, inspiring and definitely worth trying on during your hunt for the perfect gown!

Spotlight on the VINEYARD COLLECTION

2010-04-07T05:51:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I adore empire waist wedding gowns. Maybe it is their softness or the delicate look to them or that they bring us back to a different, more seemingly romantic time... I just can't help but love them.

On that note, the Vineyard Collection by Priscilla of Boston has two gorgeous empire waist gowns from their Spring 2010 collection that I would like to share with you.

Happy dress hunting!

Spotlight on CHRISTOS

2010-04-05T06:11:00.000-07:00

I am currently in love with the soft, whimsical designs and pretty, southern belle inspired tiered creations from Christos.

The gowns below are from a combination of Christos' most recent lines - Fall 2010 and Spring 2010.

If you like one of the gowns from a previous season, don't worry! Just contact your local Christos store for more information and they can find out if they can get it for you. Or just give them a call to schedule an appointment.

For more designs from Christos straight from the runway, click here.

Some of my favorite gowns of the season...

2010-04-05T05:51:00.000-07:00

For all of you brides out there trying to find the perfect gown, I thought I would share with you some of my favorite gowns of the season.

Starting today I will share with you different designers that I just love and the gowns that take my breath away (Cue: Tom Cruise and Kelly McGillis video montage from Top Gun...).

Stay tuned...

A new song to love for your wedding: Daisy Chapman's Umbrella

2010-04-02T08:30:00.000-07:00

The wonderful and amazingly talented Pilley Bianchi - the founder of Bianchi Musica - a specialist in string wedding music, introduced me to this beautiful version of "Umbrella.

Originally sung by Rihanna, Daisy Chapman, in the words of all the American Idol judges, "made the song her own."

It is enchanting and heartfelt and definitely something to consider for your wedding. Just listen and enjoy!

To listen to a sample of Umbrella, please click here.

I just love it and can't stop playing it...it is crazy pretty...

Debrief on Urban Wed NYC event

2010-03-31T11:02:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday evening I had the pleasure of attending Urban Wed - a bridal event hosted by Vané Broussard from Brooklyn Bride in Union Square in NYC.

The event was beautiful, a lot of fun and chock full of great vendors.

Before I share info on the event with you, I just want to say thank you to Jen Huang for all of the amazing photos seen below - they perfectly capture the event!

Here are some of my favorite highlights from the event:

Meeting the lovely Sam Walls Beasley from Samuelle Couture - her designs for wedding gowns are absolutely beautiful...so light and flowy. On her website you will also find some pastel creations that are out of this world and reminiscent of the perfect french macaron...

Chasing the trays of food from Cobblestone Catering. As I may have already mentioned in previous posts, I am a huge foodie. I love food. So when it comes to catering, I absolutely adore finding great caterers with amazing food. I firmly believe that wedding food, can be wonderful food, not just a cold piece of boring chicken. I was thrilled to taste the culinary delights from Cobblestone. All of the food was uber-flavorful but I have to say - the short ribs were my favorite! So delish...

Loving the gorgeous calligraphy and personalized stamps created by Bryn of Paperfinger. Her work was so outstanding that I am planning on buying a stamp for Stellina Events! Gotta love discovering new finds...the stamp would be perfect for your own Save the Dates, invites, thank you notes, your business or just because!

Admiring the table decor and wall design done by Barb of Hatch Creative Studio. The look and feel of all of the elements was so unique, fun and fabulously creative that I had to show you all of these pics. Just take a look - the photos speak for themselves!

Chatting with Betsy from Nine Cakes all about my favorite french macarons and admiring her wedding cakes and cupcakes for the millionth time. What bride would want to pass up working with a lovely cake maker to design a beautiful cake that is as delicious as it looks?!!! For more info on my wonderful thoughts on Betsy's creations at Nine Cakes read this.
Checking out the pretty, chic and affordable (!!!) bridesmaid dresses from 57 Grand. These dresses have style and are designed with a bridemaid's needs in mind (ie: she can wear it again - depending on the style and accessories they can be worn at night, at the office or to a party). I especially love the bow belt on their Riverside dress.

Enjoying the sweet sounds from the talented musicians of Elan Artists. They created an elegant ambience to the event making it all the more special. Definitely contact them for your upcoming wedding if you are looking for live music whether for a string quartet, a jazz band, Celtic music, or Caribbean - they have a ton of options to fit your own personal style.

What a great event!!!

A pretty color palette perfect for welcoming spring...

2010-03-29T05:46:00.000-07:00

I have recently fallen in love with a color palette. During my preparation for the Brooklyn Bridal Show I wanted to say "hello" to spring and keep things happy and cheerful so I designed my table with arrangements of coral, pink, yellow and orange hued roses.

The following weekend I attended an event hosted by Sierra and Juliet of Poppies and Posies (see top two photos above by the fabulous Jen Huang). When I walked in, I was so excited to see that they too loved this palette. The room was full of colorful, quirky and joyous poppies in shades of bright coral pink, yellow, and orange. For more pics of the event click here.

So now I wanted to share this brilliant color palette with you to be inspired for your upcoming spring wedding. These colors are perfect for those looking for a fun, bright and happy ambience for their wedding day. You can add hints of antique turquoise (see the typewriter pic above) to make it a bit quirkier or keep it simple and add some wildflowers to play up the natural elegance.

This palette could also be used for summertime weddings, especially if you go a bit brighter with the colors, while for spring you want to try and keep it a bit softer.

Complimentary tickets to The Wedding Salon in NYC - April 12th

2010-03-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

To all Stellina Events blog readers,

I am thrilled to be able to offer you complimentary tickets to the upcoming Wedding Salon event in New York City.

The event will take place on Monday, April 12th from 4-9pm at The Roosevelt Hotel. The hotel is located at 45 East 45th Street between Madison Avenue and Vanderbilt Avenue.

There will be a ton of vendors at the event (like Sylvia Weinstock for example) so you should definitely check it out!

To order your complimentary tickets ($50 value, Admits 2 people), please go to www.weddingsalon.com and use the following promotional code: STE4C

See you there...

xoxo,
Amanda

Going gaga for Telephone? How about a 4th of July party to accompany your wedding festivities?

2010-03-25T06:43:00.000-07:00

I just love the new Lady Gaga / Beyonce Telephone video and am finding it quite addictive, especially when I am on the bike at the gym - definitely a way to stop me from getting bored while trying to prep for summer!

I especially love the costumes the girls are wearing in the diner - probably my favorite bit of the video. They remind me of Wonder Woman but with a modern, risque twist. In fact, this scene inspired me to write this post...

If you are having a late June or early July wedding, why not throw a 4th of July party for your friends and family as part of the wedding festivities?

You can go fun and crazy with Gaga and Beyonce inspired attire (as risque or conservative as you like of course!) and dress up the entire space with kitschy Old Americana decor.

From old school Diner signs and menus to American flags, lunch boxes and dart boards. You could serve the food on diner-like plates.

The menu could include all of your favorites from an all day breakfast (pancakes, waffles, eggs) to burgers, franks, chicken and don't forget the fries! Be sure to top off the menu with ice cream sundaes and apple pie. Yum...

Whether you plan it as a rehearsal lunch/dinner party, a day after the wedding BBQ or an engagement party - keep it quirky and not too serious.

Remember: The key is to make it fun!

P.S. I thought you might appreciate the pic of me at my last 4th of July BBQ soiree. We decked out the house in American flags, served salads and BBQ steaks with homemade lemonade and blasted good ol' American rock and roll...definitely a party to remember!

All About the Brooklyn Bridal Show at BAM!!!

2010-03-13T09:53:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday's Brooklyn Bridal Show at BAM was a success! It was a wonderful event with tons of great vendors.

For all of you who attended - it was so fantastic to meet you and I look forward to hearing from you and hope that we can work together soon!

During the event I made a presentation on "How to Create Your Wedding Vision". My presentation focused on the steps that you should take to create the wedding of your dreams.

If any of your missed the presentation or were unable to make it to the bridal show, please email me at amanda.diamondstein-cieplinska@stellinaevents.com and we can organize a complimentary consultation to discuss your upcoming wedding.

Laura Pugliese, our resident Stellina Events professional makeup artist, attended the show doing complimentary makeup trials throughout for all brides and their friends in attendance. She created gorgeous, red carpet worthy looks that brought out the best features of all of the brides-to-be. They looked glowing and oh so naturally pretty - the perfect look for your wedding day!

Marcos Diaz from ION Salon was also at the Stellina Events booth doing free hair trials for everyone. I especially loved his version of a perfectly messy, yet beautiful, asymetrical knot tied at the base of the neck.

I met with Phoebe from Opalia Flowers, who had some gorgeous flower arrangements on her table. She is an old friend of mine from college with a flower shop on Atlantic Avenue. She is just a doll - so sweet, talented and a pleasure to work with.

Sarah from Blossom and Branch worked with Jillian from 100 Layer Cake to design a fabulously fun wedding table with tons of bright colors, just perfect to usher in Spring.

Meanwhile, Bella from Fleurs Bella, crafted an absolutely magnificent chuppah that took my breath away. Check out the photo above from Fleurs Bella - such a pretty bouquet made a bit quirky and unique by the addition of a tomato can. Loving it!

My booth was right across from Betsy at Nine Cakes. She so very kindly let me have a cupcake or two and they were just scrumptious!!! I can't say enough about the cupcakes - they were light, tasty and fluffy, while the frosting on top was light as air and melted in your mouth. If you are looking for a wedding cake, there is not doubt about it - go check out Nine Cakes!

Two other delicious treats that I adored at the show came from Fine and Raw Chocolates and Tumbador Chocolates. As a girl who spent five years living in Belgium, I know my chocolates and while I can snack on a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup or enjoy a peanut M&M, in my heart I am a bit of a chocolate snob. I love good chocolate that is made with tons of cocoa and that is fresh.

Tumbador Chocolates goes to the heart of my adoration for interesting flavored top quality chocolates with flavors that bring in hints of lime or green tea - such a great gift for the chocolate lover and person who likes to experiment with chocolates.

Fine and Raw has exquisite chocolates, like their signature bonbons. Their bon bon bar is a big bar of the best quality, organic chocolate with a line down the center of their soft, smooth, bon bon truffle that is to die for. Really and truly amazing. If you are a member of the Food Coop in Brooklyn on Union Street, you can find their chocolates there and their ice cream too!

Kathi Littwin Photography was at the event as well. Her photos are so beautiful - they just make you wish you were a guest at the weddings that she has photographed.

Erin Wigger from Leigh Photography was so sweet. From her photographs, you can tell that she has a sense of humor and appreciates couples who like to have a good laugh and enjoy their wedding day to the utmost. She even offers couples the option of a crazy booth where they and their guests can have a laugh dressing up for a funny photo shoot during their wedding.

Kelly Guenther, a Pullitzer Prize Winning photographer, was at the event as well. I really like how artistic her photos are - perfect for hanging on the wall as an exhibit in your apartment or house after your big day.

Bond Street Productions is a videography company and they have such a cool, vintage aesthetique...a perfect fit if you are going for a vintage or retro theme for your wedding!

Overall, the Brooklyn Bridal Show at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) was a fantastic event. Thanks to Great Performances for hosting the event. It was such a joy!!!

Congratulations to all brides- and grooms-to-be who attended the event!!!

Complimentary tickets to Wedding Bootcamp at Dylan's Candy Bar in NYC!!!

2010-03-10T11:16:00.000-08:00

The Wedding Salon is so very kindly offering all Stellina Events blog readers complimentary tickets to their upcoming Wedding Bootcamp at Dylan’s Candy Bar on March 15th in New York City.

They have some amazing speakers confirmed including Lliquid, Salvatore Cincotta Photography, Flowers By Topaz, Alpine Creative, Tatiana Byron of The Wedding Salon and Dylan Lauren, owner of Dylan’s Candy Bar, who will also offer candy treats for brides-to-be!

The Wedding Bootcamp - New York, NY Show
Date: Monday March 15, 2010
Show hours: 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Venue: Dylan's Candy Bar
Address: 1011 Third Ave, New York, NY 10021

To purchase your free tickets, please go to http://www.weddingsalon.com/theweddingbootcamp.cfm
Use the following complimentary code: SENY3C

I will be attending the event as well so I hope to see all of you there!

xoxo,
Amanda

Donate your old bridesmaid dresses to Operation PROM: March 10-13 in NYC

2010-03-10T10:26:00.000-08:00

It’s a dress drop! Get rid of those old bridesmaid dresses taking up space in your closet and help out some high school girls in need of a beautiful dress.

57Grand is collecting dresses to be donated to Operation PROM, which helps girls in need attend their proms by providing free dresses.

The first 100 ladies to donate will receive a free Revlon lipstick and nail enamel.

Where: 250 W 39th Street, Suite 804, NY, NY 10018 (b/w 7th and 8th Avenues)
When: March 9th to 13th, 2010, 11am to 7pm
Contact: 1-212-302-1604, hello@57grand.com

If you are not located in NYC, then you can still help out by mailing your old bridesmaid dresses to the following address:

Operation PROM
P.O. Box 924
Bronxville, NY 10708

About Operation PROM
A 501-3c nonprofit organization, Operation PROM helps low-income students attend their proms by providing free prom dresses and low-cost tuxedo rentals, as well as helping students with regular donations of food, clothing and school supplies. Most students assisted by Operation PROM are homeless or live in shelters and do not have family to assist them. Learn more about Operation PROM at www.helpprom.org.

About 57Grand
Since 2009, 57Grand Bridesmaids has been merging timeless uptown flair with a downtown sense of individuality. Designed and made in New York City, each dress is inspired and named after a New York City street. 57Grand's collection is available in 40 luxurious colors and fabrics and is priced at $200 and under. Shop 57Grand online at www.57grand.com.

Complimentary tickets to the Wedding Salon's Wedding Bootcamp in LA tonite!!!

2010-03-01T07:29:00.000-08:00

The Wedding Salon is holding its Wedding Bootcamp this evening from 6-8:30pm at Hansen's Cakes in Los Angeles so for those of you who are based in LA and planning your wedding, definitely take advantage of this great offer.

Hansen's Cakes is located at 1072 South Fairfax Avenue.

There will be speakers there guiding you on how to plan your wedding, vendors to meet with, cake to taste and goody bags!

For your complimentary tickets to tonite's activities, please call: 212.631.7777 or go to www.WeddingSalon.com

Please be sure to specify the following promotion code: SELA3C

Enjoy!

Free Tickets to the Brooklyn Bridal Show!!!

2010-02-26T11:43:00.000-08:00

Come meet me and a ton of other great vendors next Sunday, March 7th from 2-6pm at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (aka: BAM). Tickets are normally $20 but as a speaker at the event, Great Performances is giving all Stellina Events blog readers complimentary tickets!!!

To register for the event and get your tickets at no cost, please enter the phrase "brooklynbride" as your promo code when buying your tickets. Please click here to order your tickets.

For more info on the Brooklyn Bridal Show, please see my entry below all about the event.

I hope to see all of you there!

xoxo,

Amanda

Come meet me at the Brooklyn Bridal Show at BAM!

2010-02-16T17:00:00.000-08:00

The Brooklyn Bridal Show will take place on Sunday, March 7th at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM). In partnership with Great Performances, the caterer who works with BAM (as well as The Plaza Hotel, Wave Hill and many other spectacular venues) they will bring you more than 30 vendors from the Brooklyn area.

I will be there to meet all of you, chat with you in person about your wedding vision, inspiration, and how to design your most perfect day.

Laura Pugliese, our fabulous Makeup Artist in residence, will also be there to consult with you on your wedding day look, test out the gorgeous lip you are going for or feel free to try the smoky eye that you saw at the Golden Globes or on the runway. Don’t forget to bring photos of the looks that you love!

Some of the other vendors who will be attending the great event include Opalia Flowers, Blossom and Branch, Nine Cakes, Kelly Guenther (a Pulitzer Prize winning photographer), Bond Street Productions, and One Hanson Place (a fab venue in Fort Green).

Guests will be able to take in their surroundings and relax while meeting all the vendors and sipping cocktails in BAM’s Lepercq space.

I look forward to meeting all of you there!!!

xoxo,
Amanda

Here are the details for the event:

Date: Sunday, March 7th
Time: 2 – 6pm
Location: Brooklyn Academy of Music, 30 Lafayette Avenue, Brooklyn, NY
Tickets are $30

Click here to buy tickets or go to the following link:
http://www.greatperformances.com/brooklynbride

ASK THE EXPERT: 5 Things to Look For When Hiring A Professional Makeup Artist For Your Wedding

2010-02-09T09:00:00.000-08:00

1. Did you do your research?

Recommendations from friends are great, but make sure you check out their website, portfolio or professional work they have done. Google them! See what others have said, what they have been involved in. If they are new to the field and you really like their makeup, don't be afraid to ask for references. Also, the best test is to see how the makeup wears hours after the trial.

2. Make sure you schedule a trial.

The only way to know if you click with your makeup artist is to spend an hour or more working with them. If they don't do trials, be wary. Would you not test drive a car before you bought it?

3. Note how the interaction went during the trial.

Did they ask questions and make constructive suggestions during the trial? Did they listen to your concerns or ideas for makeup? Did you ask questions and how did they respond to them? Some makeup artists are really good at makeup, but don't always listen to the clients needs or explain what they are doing. It is not a fashion shoot, your special day is being captured for eternity on film. Make sure you are comfortable in the makeup that the artist suggests.

4. Do they seem professional and business minded?

Although makeup professionals can be fun, unique and quirky, they are not always the most reliable people. When selecting, a written agreement or contract is the best way to ensure and guarantee the day for you and the artist. Once you have made a connection with someone that has a great look for you, the last thing you want is to have to worry about doing your own makeup that day, or having Aunt Betty spackle her favorite rouge from 1970 on your stressed out face.

5. Don't be swayed by a price.

Many components go into bridal makeup: the experience of the artist, creating a look, shopping for and using the appropriate products, travel, setting up, clean up and prep work. Doing one bride usually takes half a day's work. Make sure you set aside a budget for the event, and be upfront and honest with the artist to work within your means.

Capturing your wedding story on film: CREATIVE VIDEO EDITING

2010-02-01T09:58:00.001-08:00

If you are looking for a videographer for your upcoming wedding in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut or Pennsylvania, definitely take a look at Creative Video Editing. Their films capture the purest emotions from your wedding day and I have to admit, the one from the wedding in Brooklyn on their website even made me a little teary eyed (I am such a softie!).

Michael and Michelle DiChiaro are the amazing team at Creative Video Editing and have been running this family business for the past ten years, based in Westfield, N.J. They are absolutely lovely and very talented. Their passion for what they do comes through with each of their artistic wedding films. In fact, they were recently honored as the Best Videographer in South Jersey.

Their films reveal the joy and happiness of a couple's wedding day. Michael and Michelle have a very special ability that allows them to design and edit their footage so that it tells a couple's story. You can learn about the couple from the words of the bride and groom spoken in the voice over. You can see the love in their faces, hear their humor, learn whether their style is more traditional or avant garde, and get to know them as a union.

The unique beauty of each couple's story unfolds throughout the films to reveal their love, their history and the enchanting wonder of the present day, all interlaced with their hopes for the future.

I always find that in selecting a vendor, talent is obviously the top priority but I believe that chemistry is important as well. If you don't like or trust the people you are working with, then it takes the fun out of planning your wedding and just adds stress to what is meant to be one of the happiest times of your life. Michael and Michelle are such nice people so working with them would be something to be looked forward to as they capture your beautiful day with your loved ones so that you can treasure your memories on film for years to come.

For more information on Creative Video Editing, please go to: http://www.creativevideoediting.com/

You can contact Creative Video Editing directly by calling 732.768.8207 or emailing them at info@creativevideoediting.com

An intimate celebration in a European café in NYC: MAE MAE

2010-01-14T16:38:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for the perfect spot for your engagement party or rehearsal dinner and love the feeling of old European cafes that you might find in Krakow or Prague or a tapas bar in Barcelona, look no further than the Mae Mae Cafe.

Located in Hudson Square in Manhattan, Mae Mae is a café and wine bar. The ambiance there is absolutely charming – warm and cozy with sounds of jazz in the air.

With Great Performances as their caterer, you have wonderful menus to choose from for your event whether you are looking for a cocktail party or a sit down dinner.

I was at Mae Mae just last week and I absolutely adored the setting. In fact, I am looking forward to going back soon as they have live jazz that plays every Wednesday evening.

The Mae Mae Café is available for private events and parties. They can fit thirty people for a seated dinner and sixty guests for a cocktail party.

If you are interested in planning one of your pre-wedding celebrations at Mae Mae, email Liz Vigil at liz.vigil@greatperformances.com for more information or call 212-924-5109.

The Mae Mae Café is located at:
68 Vandam Street
New York, NY 10013

Brooklyn Based Wedding Fair: WEDDING CRASHERS, January 9th

2010-01-05T08:16:00.000-08:00

When: Saturday, January 9th from 10:30am - 5:00pm

Where: The Bell House
149 7th Street
Brooklyn, New York
718.643.6510

What: A Brooklyn Based Wedding Fair

Brooklyn Based is a website of all things Brooklyn. Come to their inaugural wedding fair on January 9, 2010 at the Bell House and meet the designers, caterers, photographers, bands and DJs who they have cherry picked to make your day.

Brooklyn Based has selected 30+ original, Brooklyn-centric vendors to help you plan your wedding locally, or take a piece of Brooklyn with you wherever you tie the knot.

Top caterers including Naturally Delicious, The Cleaver Company, Red Table Catering, AVEnts and Frankies Spuntino will be passing delicious hors d’oeuvres. One Girl Cookies and Nin e Cakes will display and serve confections and cake. Brooklyn Brewery will be pouring its Belgian-style ales, Local 1 and 2.

Wedding bands Michael Arenella & his Dreamland Orchestra, The Lascivious Biddies and The Engagements will perform along with DJ Small Change, popshop! DJs and DJ Lady J.

Other wedding vendors on the guest list include floral designers Root Stock & Quade, Rebecca Shepherd Floral Design and Denise Fasanello, jewelry designer Blanca Monrós Gómez, Bario-Neal Jewelry, Sesame Letterpress, Lion in the Sun custom invitations, calligrapher Paperfinger, Mélangerie Inc. custom paperie and gifts, Shootbooth photobooth, Hello Super 8 and Seth David Cohen videographers and photographers Daniel Krieger, Radhika Chalasani and 3 Photographers, Jesse Hendrich, M.Div., Small World Terrariums, Heights Chateau Fine Wines & Spirits, Added Value Farm, Real Honeymoons and Gap Adventures.

Amidst the vendors, models will showcase the work of headpiece and dress designers like The White Gown.

You’ll also get advice from experts on topics like DIY Ceremonies and Incredible Honeymoons, which the winner of our Honeymoon Gift Package will put to good use. One lucky bride will take home a $250 J.Crew gift card and private shopping party for her and her bridesmaids, a $500 travel voucher at Gap Adventures, a free TabletPlus membership at TabletHotels.com, and a gift subscription to Budget Travel magazine.

Tickets (on sale now) are $40 for the entire day, or $20 in advance for each three-hour session. In that window of time, guests will meet over 30 one-of-a-kind vendors and speakers who will propose wonderful things for their day. Flutes of sparkling wine with entrance, and the first 50 guests at each session receive free “To Have and to Hold” gift-filled bags and free entry in the Honeymoon Gift Package.

Here are the details for the sessions:

Session One (10:30-1:30)*
10:45 am: DIY Ceremonies with Officiant Jesse Hendrich, M.Div.

11:15 am: Signed, Sealed + Delivered: Every Invite Question Answered with Melinda Morris of Lion in the Sun

12:00pm : Best. Honeymoon. Ever. with Nina Willdorf, Editor in Chief of Budget Travel magazine, Dorothy McGivney, Editor of jauntsetter.com, and Gap Adventures

12:45 pm: Catering on a Budget with Ally Lipton of AVEnts and Meguire Campbell of Vine Wine Caterers: Naturally Delicious, Red Table Catering, and AVEnts

Session Two (2-5pm)*
2:15 pm: Picking Original, Seasonal Decor with Kerry Quade of Root Stock & Quade

3:00 pm: 10 Things to Look for In a Wedding Photographer with Daniel Krieger

3:45 pm: How to Avoid a Cookie-Cutter Wedding with Vané Broussard of Brooklyn Bride and Anne Chertoff of From I Will to I Do and Editor of AisleDash.com

4:30 pm: Pairing Food and Wine with Matthew LaSorsa of Heights Chateau and Loren Michelle of Naturally Delicious. Caterers: Frankies Spuntino, The Cleaver Company, and Red Table Catering

*Please note: All vendors, including bands, will be present and perform at both sessions. The only variation in each session is among caterers and speakers.

Spring 2010 Bridal Trunk Shows at Saks in NYC

2010-01-04T06:14:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all!

Saks Fifth Avenue in New York City will be having the following bridal trunk shows from January til June 2010:

Christos
January 14 - January 16

Elizabeth Fillmore
January 21 - January 23

Reem Acra
January 28 - January 30

Oscar de la Renta
February 4 - 6

Melissa Sweet, Priscilla of Boston and Platinum
February 11 - 13

Amsale
February 18 - 20

Edgardo Bonilla
February 25 - 27

Kenneth Pool
March 4 - 6

Junko Yoshioka
March 11 - 13

Anna Maier~Ulla-Maija
March 18 - 20

Jenny Packham
March 25 - 27

Marchesa
April 8 - 10

Vera Wang
April 15 - 17

Monique Lhuillier
April 22 - 24 and July 15 - 17

Selia Yang
April 29 - May 1

Douglas Hannant
May 6 - 8

Angel Sanchez
May 13 - 15

Anne Bowen
May 20 - 22

Carolina Herrera
June 17 - 19

To make an appointment to attend any of these trunk shows or for more information, please call 1.212.940.2269

Saks Fifth Avenue is located at:
611 5th Avenue
New York, NY 10022

The trunk shows will take place on the 5th Floor in the department for Contemporary and Bridal Collections.

Happy dress hunting in the New Year!!!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

2009-12-25T11:20:00.001-08:00

Dear all Stellina Events blog readers,

I just want to take the time to wish you a very happy holidays.

Enjoy this time with your friends and family.

Love them, cherish them and have a great time planning your upcoming wedding!

Best wishes this holiday season,
Amanda
xoxo

ASK THE EXPERT: Kissable Holiday Lips

2009-12-25T10:58:00.000-08:00

So you want to try red for the first time at the next holiday soiree?

Or perhaps you're already a red lipstick junkie but want to prevent it from bleeding and smudging to keep it looking fresh...

VIVA GLAM 1 and Russian Red by M-A-C are so versatile that they can work on skin tones from fair to deep.

If you desire a retro matte look reminiscent of Jackie O, Marilyn, or Gwen Stefani: try Ruby Woo or Lady Danger lipstick with Cherry lip pencil by M-A-C Cosmetics.

A classic red lip that stops traffic, like a starlet in a classic movie is well worth the extra steps. Layering products helps your lipstick from wearing off unevenly without worrying about touch ups all night.

How to apply:

Start by moisturizing with Kheils lip balm and then blot to remove excess emollients
Using a sponge, gently apply a thin layer of M-A-C blot powder all over your lips, above and outside the lip line
Apply a few coats of your favorite color, then finish with a lip brush (the retractable kind is super handy - you can throw it in a clutch or your pocket with your lip product).

Tips:

For a more dramatic defined look, choose a pencil that contrasts a bit with the focus color. Blend with your brush, blot and dab lipstick one last time.
To prevent bleeding use concealer around the edges of your lip all around the lip line.

If you need a touch up from kissing your guests or sipping on martinis, all you have to do is pucker, and dab the color in the center.

Happy Holidays,
LP

P.S. Don't forget to drink though a straw all night!

How to offset the environmental impact of your wedding: ZERO CARBON WEDDINGS

2009-12-16T07:16:00.000-08:00

Today, while doing my daily search on the web for news and anything interesting that might inspire me, I happened upon an organization called Carbonfund.org.

At Carbonfund.org they have a trademarked tool called ZeroCarbon Weddings that they developed in partnership with WeddingWire.

It is a calculator that is easy-to-use and allows you to calculate the approximate carbon footprint of your wedding and then find out what it will take to offset it. How great is that?

For more information on this tool or to try it for yourself, go to: http://www.carbonfund.org/weddings

In honor of COP15: Green Guides to Planning Your Wedding

2009-12-15T11:26:00.000-08:00

In honor of the UN Climate Change Conference currently underway in Copenhagen, Denmark, I thought I would share with you a list of books that you can read to inspire you to go green (or a bit greener) for your big day.

All of the books are available at http://www.amazon.com/ so you are just a few clicks away from finding out how you and your fiance can do something great for the environment whilst planning your perfect day.

Enjoy!

Here is the list (not in any specific order):

Green Wedding: Planning Your Eco-Friendly Celebration by Mireya Navarro
Eco-Chic Weddings by Emily Elizabeth Anderson
Organic Weddings: Balancing Ecology, Style and Tradition by Michelle Kozin
The Green Bride Guide: How to Create an Earth-Friendly Wedding on Any Budget by Kate Harrison
The Everything Green Wedding Book: Plan an elegant, affordable, earth-friendly wedding by Wenona Napolitano
Simply Green Parties: Simple and resourceful ideas for throwing the perfect celebration, event or get-together by Danny Seo

Bridal gown sale at SAKS in NYC!

2009-12-02T14:19:00.000-08:00

Attention all brides looking for a gown in New York City. Saks Fifth Avenue is having an amazing sale on gowns for this week only.

Gowns from Vera Wang, Reem Acra and Monique Lhuillier as well as other desginers will be on sale for as much as 70% off!

Here are the details...

Dates: Today - Saturday, December 5th
Times: 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
Where: 611 Fifth Ave. (between 49th & 50th Streets), 9th floor

Have fun and good luck finding your perfect gown!

For all your single girlfriends out there: CITY GIRLS WORLD

2009-12-02T07:14:00.000-08:00

Today's article is for all of your single girlfriends out there in the tough dating world and for all you married girls who love a good date story.

I would like to introduce you to City Girls World, a website that is dedicated to all city girls in Washington, DC and Philadelphia, though the guidance is out there for all girls to share no matter what the city.

The City Girls World blog was created by my very best friend Christie (the beauty on the right in the pic above) who currently resides in DC but keeps her passport and car keys on her at all times for the random adventure or date.

Christie created the site with her friend Jess to share their dating stories, advice, and interesting info about their local cities like the best place to go on a first date versus a third date, and bars with the hottest bartenders and prettiest bathrooms.

I am also very excited to share with you an interview with Christie and Jess in the Washingtonian today that is all about City Girls World.

Take a look:

http://www.washingtonian.com/blogarticles/people/capitalcomment/14256.html

So if you are heading to the alter but want to take care of your bridesmaids and other girlfriends, let them know about City Girls World. It's a fun site with great info and is highly entertaining.

You can find City Girls World at the following link:

http://citygirlsworld.com/cgw/

Designer and couture bridal gown sample sale : Exquisite Bride in NJ

2009-12-01T09:15:00.000-08:00

Attention all brides in the New Jersey area, Exquisite Bride is having an incredible sample sale on bridal gowns this week only!

Exquisite Bride is a specialist in designer and couture gowns and the sale will include gowns from Vera Wang, Jim Hjelm, Ulla Maija, Liancarlo, Modern Trousea, Junko Yoshioka and many others. Veils will also be on sale so that you can complete your bridal look.

Here are the details for the event...

When: Tuesday, December 1st - Sunday, December 6th 2009

Where: Exquisite Bride, 110 Essex Street, Millburn, NJ 07041

Call 1.973.376.2770 to make your appointment.

For more information on Exquisite Bride, go to their website:

http://www.exquisite-bride.com/index.html

Check out the Exquisite Bride blog for more information:

http://www.exquisite-bride.blogspot.com/

MAX – An intimate Italian to celebrate your engagement

2009-11-30T07:04:00.000-08:00

Back in 2001 before I moved to Europe, a friend took me to a cozy little Italian restaurant in the East Village that was absolutely charming with scrumptious homemade dishes. I never knew the name so I wasn’t able to return to the restaurant until a serendipitous moment last night.

Wandering around downtown New York yesterday evening, my husband, Michal, and I had the pleasure of happening upon Max, a warm, candlelit, rustic Italian restaurant in Tribeca, New York City. The environment was so inviting and the menu had loads of classic Italian pasta and meat dishes that we adore - we just had to walk in.

With a great, affordable menu and a wonderful wine list with servers who really know their wines, this restaurant seemed to be a transplant straight from the cobblestoned streets of the Trastevere district in Rome.

After taking a bite of my Lasagna Fatta in Casa (homemade lasagna) with delicious béchamel sauce, I knew that I had been there before. It wasn’t déjà vu, it was the simple fact that Max was the Italian resto that I had adored so many years before. Not only do they have a restaurant in Tribeca, but there is one in the East Village as well.

Max is a wonderful, warm Italian restaurant that would be great for an engagement party if you are looking to have a sit down dinner to celebrate your upcoming nuptials with your nearest and dearest. The restaurants are rather small so they would be perfect for an engagement party of about 20 or more people.

So if you and your groom love great homemade Italian food, exposed brick walls, candlelight and amazing wines, definitely take a look at Max for your upcoming engagement party. Max is the perfect spot for long suppers filled with romance and good conversation.

Buon appetito!

A must for your bridal kit: SUPERGEL

2009-11-24T08:42:00.000-08:00

This is one super duper gel for all of your bridal cleaning needs whether you get a grass stain on your shoe or a drop of red wine on your dress.*

It won't fade colors but definitely try it out on something before using it on your big day!

It can be used diluted at a ratio of 1 to 10 for delicate needs. Just rub a small amount into the stain and rinse with cold water.

To buy Supergel, go to:
http://kioskkiosk.com/c/108/p/1250/Supergel

* Please note - Girls, don't drink red wine on your wedding day. Better to be safe than sorry!!!

Giving back after your wedding: PLANT A TREE

2009-11-24T07:50:00.001-08:00

Are you looking for a fun activity to do with your wedding guests the day after your wedding?

Maybe you are thinking low key, fun BBQ with music followed by a group activity. If you tend to be green or just want to do something good for the environment and continue your group bonding, why not give all of your guests a tree sapling that you can all plant together at the nearest nature conservancy?

It’s a great way to give back to nature and celebrate with your nearest and dearest in a fun, hands-on way.

To order saplings for you and your wedding guests, go to the Green World Project website. They have a ton of saplings to choose from. Some are specific to weddings but there are a lot of other great options as well.

Check out their website:
http://www.greenworldproject.net/wedding.htm

To find out where to plant your saplings, contact your local nature conservancy or protected forest land.

Happy planting!

xoxo,

Amanda

HATTINI – a great gift or accessory for the uber-chic bride and bridal party

2009-11-23T08:37:00.000-08:00

My friend Maddy just passed on one of her fashion secrets to me. Her friend Marga is the creator of Hattini, a company devoted to designing headpieces (similar to fascinators) for “well-furnished heads.” Marga custom makes each individual hat so there is love and attention in each unique piece.

I have just had a look at the designs and they are pretty spectacular and would make great gifts for your fashionable bridesmaids. Plus, they are pretty wedding-budget friendly.

Whether you like the blue butterfly, a flower made of netting, or an exotic white orchid, there are styles to suite all different tastes. If you are going for a vintage inspired wedding, why not pair a satin cocktail dress for your bridesmaids with one of these outstanding headpieces?

Or if you are going for a short dress yourself or a beach wedding, there are definitely a few choices that are bridal worthy and could be a cute alternative to a traditional veil…but then I would recommend giving the headpieces as a gift to your bridesmaids so that your style stands out.

For more information on Hattini and to see all of the designs go to:
http://www.hattini.com/menu.html

Check out Hattini on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/hattini?ref=search&sid=601310367.2256805821..1&v=wall

You can buy Hattini headpieces online at Etsy:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/hattinishop

You can also go to the following shops to check out the headpieces in person:

NEW YORK

The Hat Shop
120 Thomspon Street #A
New York, NY 10012-3722
(212) 219-1445

Kit 228
228 Elizabeth Street (between Houston St. & Prince St.)
New York, NY 10012
(212) 965-8110

SHANGHAI

Les Lucioles
Unit 112, Building No 1
No 10 Shajing Road (near Jiulong Road and Jiulong Hotel)
Shanghai 200080
China

The perfect setting for a beautiful beach wedding: EL DORADO ROYALE, RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO

2009-11-23T07:35:00.000-08:00

I just returned from a trip to Mexico (my lovely hubby surprised me for my 30th birthday) and just had to tell all of you about the hotel I stayed in because it would be the perfect place for a beautiful, fun and relaxing beach wedding.

Are you looking for a wedding with sun, sea and sand with not so much travel time? If you are based in or around New York then do take a look at the Riviera Maya. It is just a 4-hour direct flight from JFK to Cancun. There are also direct flights from Miami and other cities, so do check http://www.expedia.com/ to see if there is a direct flight from your city. After you arrive, you are only a 40-minute shuttle ride away from the luxurious El Dorado Royale, an all-inclusive, adults only hotel.

Envision yourself in your flowing white gown walking down an aisle of sand and flower petals to your groom surrounded by your close friends and family. Your nuptials could take place either outside or inside the pretty church, which is just across from the reception site that overlooks the crystal clear blue waters of the Caribbean Sea.

With a flower in your hair you can relax, treasure your naturally beautiful surroundings and dance the evening away with your loved ones all around.

The El Dorado has some incredible amenities. From the moment you walk into the resort, you are greeted with a smile, a cool and refreshing towel followed by a glass of chilled champagne. There are seven restaurants, thirteen bars (including a beach bar and numerous swim up pool bars), and a spa where they give delicious, not to be missed, deep tissue massages in huts on the beach (ask for your massage to be on the 2nd floor so you get the amazing view of the sea and don't forget to bring your camera!).

There are activities during the evening in the Gravitas bar followed by a DJ and dancing. I tend to be skeptical of all-inclusives but the activities weren’t too cheesy, just super fun, and the food was good (especially at Jo Jo’s, Kampai and D’Italia). Plus the DJ is open to requests so you can party all night to your favorite tunes!

If you want to keep active in the days leading up to your nuptials, head to the gym or the tennis courts. Or if you want a bit of adventure following your wedding day, rent the jet skis or try paragliding.

The crowds at the El Dorado are wedding-friendly, mostly couples and groups of friends/family in their late 20's, 30's and 40's.

Finally, last but certainly not least, the El Dorado has a very unique feature – the entire hotel is made of up canals so it is almost as if there is one big lazy river going throughout the resort premises. Pick up an inner tube at one of the gift shops and spend your days leading up to and following your wedding day in a tube swimming in the canals with a cocktail in your hand. I promise you that your stress will be relieved and fun will be had all around!

For more information on the El Dorado Royale in Riviera Maya, Mexico, go to:
http://www.eldoradosparesorts.com/hoteles/doradoroyale/index.php

Calling all wedding guests...RENT THE RUNWAY

2009-11-09T09:23:00.000-08:00

This post is for all fashion-conscious women and girls who have upcoming weddings to attend but nothing to wear (not really nothing but nothing in our minds that we aren't bored with or is not exciting or fabulous enough for this specific event).

I would like to introduce you to Rent the Runway. It is a new service quite similar to Netflix that allows you to rent clothing straight from the runway and then mail it back after you wear it. It is an ingenious idea making runway fashion accessible to a much larger audience especially during this uniquely trying time where our purse strings are a bit tighter than usual.

The service is in high demand so if you are looking for the perfect runway gown to strut your stuff at your next party or wedding, then get your fingers typing in the following address and get yourself on the wait list!

http://renttherunway.com/

Check out today's article on Rent the Runway in the New York Times.

Happy shopping!

xoxo,
Amanda

ASK THE EXPERT: Fresh, flushed cheeks

2009-11-02T16:40:00.000-08:00

Hi ladies,

With the cold wind blowing and winter coming, why not add some color to your cheeks for your big day?

For flushed, rosy cheeks try Tarte cheek stain in "Flush," a sheer berry color.

For a sheer, deep plum shade, use "Blushing Bride."

This product from Tarte is a water-based gel cheek stain, which will give you that natural flushed look. Just like you stepped in from the brisk cold. It is oil free, so it won't clog pores and does not contain parabens, sulfates or synthetic fragrances.

Here is a great process in which to apply the stain:

First, prep your skin with Precleanse by Dermalogica, following up with your favorite cleanser and moisturizer. Makeup wears better on clean, prepped skin.

Apply a sheer layer of foundation, and for a natural glowing look use either Armani luminous silk or Face and Body by Makeup Forever. This will even out your skin tone and help the blush stay in tact, since it has a product to adhere to.

Then apply a sheer layer of translucent power, like HD Powder by Makeup Forever, all over your face to set the foundation.

Finally, add Tarte cheek color with your finger and/or a foundation brush, applying until you the desired look.

Until next time,

Laura

Lion in the Sun: A treasure to behold

2009-10-23T13:14:00.000-07:00

Beautiful invitations, wonderful personalized service and environmentally friendly – what more could you want from a stationer?

A Lion in the Sun is based in Park Slope, Brooklyn – the same neighborhood as Stellina Events – and is only two stops off the train from downtown Manhattan. Owners Melinda and David Morris consider A Lion in the Sun to be a family business.

Melinda manages the store and has a passion and pride for creating important keepsakes for the memorable occasions of life, as well as imparting importance and elegance to everyday occasions. She is grateful every day to be able to help her clients navigate the events that might seem overwhelming at the time, but that will undoubtedly become part of their most cherished memories.

At Lion in the Sun, Melinda and her team of experts design invitations based on your style and desires whether you are looking for a simple, classic invitation or a Save the Date with an illustration of the Brooklyn Bridge. They listen to your ideas and provide you with a range of options as to how they could be implemented. They will find ways to work within your budget, no matter how large or small. There are a wealth of options available and with their knowledge and expertise you will be steered in the right direction to make the invitation of your dreams a reality.

While the store reflects a deep appreciation for fine paper products, Lion in the Sun is also respectful of their place on the planet and actively seeks out quality recycled paper goods and companies that participate in programs to keep our planet green.

With an inviting storefront and a warm reception, it is always a pleasure to walk into Lion in the Sun. If you are looking for gorgeous designs and friendly & talented stationery experts then look no further.

For more information, please go to:
http://lioninthesunps.com/

Lion in the Sun is located at:

232 7th Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11215

Phone (718) 369-4006
Fax (718) 369-9438

mailto:shop@lioninthesunps.com

Store Hours:
Monday – Friday 11AM – 7PM
Saturday – Sunday 11AM – 6PM

Directions:

From NYC – Take the F train to the 7th Avenue stop in Park Slope. Walk north on 7th.

Other nearby subways:The M or R trains to 9th St and 4th AvenueThe 2 or 3 trains to Grand Army PlazaThe B or Q trains to 7th Avenue

Or visit their sister store on Long Island:
Lion in the Sun of Huntington
314 Main Street
Huntington, NY 11743

Phone (631) 423-5757
Fax (631) 423-5324

A special note from Amanda

2009-10-23T12:16:00.000-07:00

Dear all brides- and grooms-to-be, maids of honor, bridesmaids, MOBs, MOGs, and all other followers of my Stellina Events blog,

I just wanted to write all of you a little note apologizing for the delay of my blog postings. As you may already know, Stellina Events just opened in New York and with my new location also came a transatlantic move for me from London to New York after seven years of living in Europe. I am back at home in NY now (Park Slope, Brooklyn to be exact) and ready to get back to writing giving you your weekly bit of inspiration for all of your wedding planning needs.

Have a great weekend and stay tuned for my next post on a local Park Slope invitation company called Lion in the Sun that creates beautiful, unique stationery for all of your wedding and party needs!

xoxo,

Amanda

ELEGANT BRIDE Fall 2009 - A feature on my wedding in Italy

2009-10-01T04:41:00.001-07:00

Pick up the latest copy of Elegant Bride magazine (one of my favorite wedding publications) and check out page 28. There is an article on my bridal look from my wedding on July 3, 2008 at Castello di Modanella in southern Tuscany.

To discover your own bridal look to suit your personality and style, have a look at my previous blog article: How Your Street Style can inspire your Wedding Style.

Happy reading!

ASK THE EXPERT: How to get Perfect, Luscious Lashes

2009-09-30T08:04:00.000-07:00

Hi ladies,

My current favorite mascara at the moment is MAX Factor volume couture. It comes in waterproof (just in case) for your very special day. The brush is flexible and has very small teeth to comb into each individual lash while keeping the curl, and adding a thick luscious coat of product without looking clumpy.

First, curl your lashes with a lash curler by Shu Uemura. Then use your index finger to lift the eyelid, applying the product starting on the root of the lash, next to the skin under the eye. Brush the mascara all the way through to the end. This creates a fuller and thicker lash line, and distributes the product evenly throughout each lash.

If you want a really full, thick lash angle the wand vertically and use the tip of the brush on the ends of the lashes to add extra volume. If you feel that you added too much product or want to tone it down, use a clean mascara wand (sold at most drugstores) to comb through the lash.

For the ultimate lash that will open up the eye and make them pop in photos, have your makeup artist apply individual fake lashes using waterproof glue by DUO, (sold at Ricky's in New York and other beauty supply stores).

Cheers,
Laura

Presenting STELLINA EVENTS BY AMANDA DIAMONDSTEIN-CIEPLINSKA

2009-09-25T03:25:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to announce that the website for STELLINA EVENTS, my wedding design and special events consultancy is now up and running for all of you to see. Please go to the site, wander around, and let me know your thoughts.

http://www.stellinaevents.com/

On the website, there is a Contact Us page if you are interested in speaking with me about planning your upcoming nuptials or special event.

We offer free consultations for anyone planning a wedding or event, so do go ahead and contact me. I would be happy to help!

Or you could always just drop me an email at:
amanda.diamondstein-cieplinska@stellinaevents.com

I look forward to speaking with you. :)

Happy Planning!!!

xoxo,
Amanda

A beautiful bridal bouquet for winter: Black & white gerbera daisies

2009-09-22T03:01:00.000-07:00

Last week I was at Claridge's, a hotel in London, enjoying afternoon tea with a friend to say goodbye before I relocate from London to New York next week. When exiting the foyer, I saw the most beautiful flower arrangement that would make for an outstanding bouquet or centerpiece for a black and white themed wedding.

The bouquet was a tight bunch of white gerbera daisies similar to the photo above. It might sound simple but it was beguiling - just gorgeous and made me stop in my tracks to take note.

Whilst winter is still months away, this bouquet had me picturing snowfall and a winter wedding. Maybe it was the stark contrast between the winter white petals and the dark insides. Or maybe it was just the essence of the gerberas, which usually tend to look modern to me but these had a look all their own - one that could work in many locations from a modern loft setting to a country estate covered in snow.

So for all you winter brides out there, here is a bit of inspiration…

How to welcome autumn? With a new color palette of course…

2009-09-16T01:37:00.000-07:00

While many of us are sad to see summer go, why not embrace the crisp air, the clear sunny skies and the cooler breezes? When I think of autumn, I think of a tradition we have here in the US northeast called Fall Foliage where we drive to the countryside to see the changing of the colors of leaves on the trees from the vivid summer greens to the warmer shades of red, orange and yellow. The colors are so beautiful and during those trips we also throw in some apple picking to make fresh home baked apple pies when we arrive back home.

On that note, a color scheme that I love for the autumn is based on neutral tones with accents of bright apple red. The shade of red I am referring to is like a ripe, juicy Macintosh apple. It has zest and pops against the neutrals.

The key to this color palette is to keep it simple. Keep it earthy. Whether you get married inside an old barn, transform a loft into an earthy space, or your reception is in the middle of a field - keep the linens neutral (light beige or crème tones) and add natural wooden chairs (in a darker brown or a country honey tone).

For centerpieces you could use red gerbera daisies like you see in the gorgeous wedding photos above taken by Nashan Photographers at the 320 Guest Ranch in Big Sky, Montana. Another option is to embrace the season and go au natural with an assortment of apples in glass bowls either with leaves (if you want some green accents) or with trees branches (to stick with the neutral palette).

While you wear your beautiful white wedding gown, your bridesmaids could wear neutral crème or tan tones, maybe even with a hint of a gold or bronze shimmer. If you want to add some color to your gown, then go ahead and carry a bouquet of bright red gerberas or another red flower that you love. Or if you want to be a bit more classic, while you carry your white bouquet, your bridesmaids could carry bright red flowers and your groomsmen could wear the matching boutonnières.

Feel free to sprinkle red around your wedding. Why not add your red flowers or petals to a simple white tiered cake? Or tie a red string around each napkin to act as a napkin ring. The possibilities are endless. Just be sure to not overdo it – keep the red as an accent so that it is unique and surprises guests whenever they see it appear in the details.

This is a color palette that is a bit modern, a bit country, and definitely says “Hello autumn! We are happy to see you.”

So for all of you getting married in autumn 2010 or 2011, take a moment to consider whether this color palette could be a good match for your wedding vision.

And for all brides getting married in the spring or summertime, feel free to play around with this color palette to make it more appropriate for those seasons. For example, rather than going with a bright apple red, for summer I recommend heading more towards a hot tomato red or an orangey red (see Essie’s Clam Bake nail polish for the perfect shade) or for spring, try a red poppy color or the color of a fresh red chili. These colors will definitely add some spice to your wedding (pun attended!).

If you like the photos above then go to Nashan Photographers for more information:
http://www.nashan.com/

If you like the wedding venue seen in the photographs, then check out:
http://www.320ranch.com/gatherings/private-wedding.php

Jenny Yoo 2010 Collection Fashion Show: Tribeca Rooftop, September 29, 2009 6-9pm

2009-09-15T04:52:00.000-07:00

Attention all brides-to-be looking for gorgeous bridesmaid dresses and gowns, now is your chance to reserve your ticket to the upcoming fashion shows for Jenny Yoo’s 2010 Collection.

As you know, I am a big fan of Jenny Yoo’s bridal party dresses – there are so many different designs to choose from and beautiful colors that deciding which dress is the right one with your bridesmaids will be hard just because there are loads of great options!

I love the sophisticated and stylish green dresses in the photo above so if you, like me, would consider buying one just because you want it (even though you aren’t a bridesmaid) then definitely book your spot on the runway now for this event.

The event will also have other wedding vendors for you to take a look at and meet. In fact, the list of contributors includes Jo Malone and Neuhaus – brilliant bath products and scrumptious Belgian chocolates will definitely make your time at the event that much more enjoyable! After all, what girl could resist watching a fashion show whilst nibbling on gourmet chocolates?

Here is the info you need to buy your ticket, which includes a ticket for your BFF or best family member to join you in your search for the perfect bridesmaid dress:

Event name: Unveiled - A Bridal Soirée

Date: September 29, 2009 from 6-9pm

Location: Tribeca Rooftop, 2 Debrosses Street, New York

Admission: $20 (Bride and 1 guest)

RSVP by September 25th by calling: 212-645-0823

There is also a form to fill out that you can find at the following link:
http://www.jennyyoo.com/soiree-nyc.html

If you are based in CHICAGO and wish you could go to the event, don’t fret. There will be a Jenny Yoo Fashion Show and a Champagne Cocktail Reception in Chicago. Here are the details:

Event name: Unveiled - A Bridal Soirée

Date: October 8th, 2009 from 6-8pm

Location: Lumen, 839 West Fulton Market, Chicago

Admission: complimentary (Bride and 1 guest)

RSVP to the Chicago event by October 2nd by calling: 312-642-2327.

The RSVP form and additional information on the reception can be found at:
http://www.jennyyoo.com/soiree-chicago.html

For more info on both of the events, please go to:
http://www.jennyyoo.com/soiree.html

Please note: Space is limited so do give them a call sooner rather than later to book your place at the event.

The Kleinfeld’s September Sample Sale is coming! - Sunday, September 13, 2009

2009-09-06T03:41:00.000-07:00

Ladies, one of the famous Kleinfeld’s sample sales is upon us. During the sale you can save up to a whopping 70% off select sample gowns. This is an event that is so well known, it was even featured on an episode of Friends where Monica fought with a woman over her wedding gown, though this event is not as frightening since brides-to-be each have their own appointment. Definitely not to be missed if you are in the NYC area and are in the market for a gorgeous designer gown (for a much friendlier price). Happy hunting!!!

Here are some sample sale highlights:

Save up to 70% on select sample gowns from top bridal designers

Designers include: Alvina Valenta, Amalia Carrara, Amarilidine, Amsale, Amy Michelson, Anne Barge, Badgley Mischka, Carolina Herrera, Christos, Claire Pettibone, Danielle Caprese, Edgardo Bonilla, Eve of Milady, Henry Roth, Ian Stuart, Jim Hjelm, Judd Waddell, Justina McCaffrey, Kenneth Pool, Lazaro, Liancarlo, Marisa, Melissa Sweet, Michelle Roth, Monique Lhuillier, Peter Langner, Pnina Tornai, Priscilla of Boston, Reem Acra, Rivini, Romona Keveza, Stephen Yearick, Tara Keeley, and many other famous Kleinfeld exclusive European designers!

Plus, receive up to 50% off a select group of accessories!

To make an appointment for the event (one is needed to attend), please call 1-646-633-4300.

For more information on Kleinfeld’s go to:
http://www.kleinfeldbridal.com/index.cfm

A Brooklyn venue to love: Bubby’s DUMBO

2009-08-23T02:19:00.001-07:00

Whether you are looking for a venue for your reception or the perfect spot to hold your engagement party or day after brunch, you should take a look at Bubby’s DUMBO. For those of you who don’t know, DUMBO is an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, a unique NY location that will have guests admiring the beautiful view and a great opportunity to take photos on the water with the NY skyline in the background.

Nestled on the shore of the East river, next to Brooklyn Bridge Park, Bubby’s DUMBO is one of my favorite brunch spots. Their food is to die for (I have never met a more yummy eggs benedict) and their drinks are delectable (try the Bloody Mary with jalapeño-infused vodka). While they are typically known as one of New York’s famed breakfast and brunch spots, Bubby’s DUMBO has a space that is perfect for a celebration.

With a beautiful bar reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour, glossy brown hardwood floors and space for a band and dance floor, Bubby’s DUMBO just might be the place you have been searching for. It is a great venue if you are planning a wedding in the New York but want something a bit more unique or if you just want to grab your closest family members and wedding party the day after your wedding for a proper debrief!

Go to http://bubbys.com/ for more information or call 1-718-222-0666 to make reservations and see what the fuss is all about! Just make sure to arrive hungry…

Spotlight on NASHAN PHOTOGRAPHERS

2009-08-17T04:49:00.000-07:00

For the past few years, I have been admiring the work of Melanie Nashan and her expert team of photographers. Based in Montana, Florida and California, but willing to travel the world for their clients, Nashan Photographers specialize in capturing candid, artistic moments of a bride and groom’s big day.

Whenever I look at their beautiful photos, all I can think is that I would love to be at the events that they are photographing. With a knack for capturing emotion and the details, their photos reveal the unique character of each wedding.

In fact, Nashan Photographers was chosen by PDN, photography's most respected trade publication, as one of America's top wedding photographers.

The work of both Melanie and her associates can be seen in tons of bridal magazines including Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides, Elegant Bride, Modern Bride, and The Knot, amongst others.

If you love their work and have other events or celebrations coming up, do keep them in mind as well since Nashan Photographers also photograph family gatherings, holiday photos, senior portraits, maternity shoots and baby portraits.

For more information on Nashan Photographers, please go to: http://www.nashan.com/

Also, check out Melanie’s blog at: http://www.nashan.com/blog.htm

How your street style can inspire your wedding style

2009-08-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

Whether you think of your personal style as modern, trendy, classic, funky or just unique to you – we all have different styles and tastes. While flipping through most bridal magazines we see images of brides with a beautiful full white gown, a nice up do, and soft makeup…so where does our style go when we become a bride?

Just because we all wear white doesn’t mean that our gown, hair, makeup, accessories and the entire wedding cannot be distinct to us (and our groom, of course).

My friend Jill has a great street style blog called Pics by Polka Dot - http://streetstylelondon.blogspot.com/ - where she captures people walking down the street to inspire others and open a dialogue about fashion today in London and everywhere she happens to travel to (She is in NY right now). The photos above are all from her website. All of these girls have a distinctly different style and that style should be reflected in their wedding.

Here are some tips to turn your street style into your wedding style:

STEP I

Work with your groom to design your wedding vision. Your wedding vision should be based on your street style, your groom’s style, your style icons (if you have one or many), where you live, what your backgrounds are, where you love to visit, your music tastes, your favorite foods, colors and places. At the end of the day your wedding vision is all about creating an event that is unique to the two of you. It is a combination of your styles and who you are as a couple together. It is a puzzle and every piece counts in making your vision of the perfect day a reality and your street style is a big piece of the puzzle.

STEP II

Decide on how each of the elements below will be selected to create your wedding vision.

The Gown: In order to find your perfect wedding dress or gown, start with bridal magazines. Don’t just buy one, buy a bunch. All magazines have different styles and identities so Elegant Bride, Town & Country Weddings, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Modern Bride are all quite different publications.

Also, check out dresses online from past years at http://www.brides.com/ since you may love a designer’s previous bridal line. If you don’t see what you are looking for, then why not find a seamstress to create your own unique wedding dress. You could pull out different elements of gowns you found that you like, such as the neckline or the train and show the seamstress different types of dresses and gowns that you own, which are your favorites. That way you can create a dress or gown that is unique to you and suits your style and figure.

The key is to find a dress or gown that works with your street style, in a more formal embodiment. If you tend to feel more comfortable is suits, then a more classic, fitted dress could work. If you want a more youthful, fun look go for a short white dress. If you are more of a romantic try a flowing chiffon gown. Go with what you feel comfortable in - the gown that when you put it on, feels like you.

Hair: Something I don’t understand with weddings is why so many people who normally wear their hair down or in beautiful styles, just decide for that one day to put their hair up in a tight up do. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. If you never wear your hair up, I wouldn’t advise starting to do this style for your wedding. Your wedding You should be the most naturally beautiful You, so stick with what you know looks good on you. A helmet head of hairspray is not attractive on anyone so try and keep it soft and natural, whether up or down. Pull out photos of your favorite hair styles and bring them to your hair stylist to see which looks suit your own personal style the best.

Accessories: Accessories are your time to have some fun (in addition to all of the other fun elements of planning your wedding!). If you are a bit funky, you could add a tiny veil that covers only part of your face. If you want something a bit more glamorous and stylish, try a veil that goes to just beneath your shoulders and is cut straight across to complement a fitted trumpet gown. If you like more classic styles, go for a chapel or cathedral length veil.

Then there is jewelry – From diamond or pearl earrings to a statement ring or chandelier earrings. There are tons of ways to use jewelry to bring across your personal style. To add some spice, don’t be afraid to bring in some color. If you love turquoise, why not add a turquoise ring or bracelet? Then you can check your “something blue” off your list as well!

Venue: Location, Location, Location. Your ceremony and reception venues set the scene for the entire day. Finding the right venue should begin with you. Where do you enjoy spending your time and vacations most? The beach? A lounge bar? The countryside? By a lake in the forest? Or a big city? In addition to your street style, figuring out your vacation style and the places that make you feel the most comfortable, happy and stress free is a great start to selecting your venue. Also, take into consideration where you and your fiancé come from: a small town or big city?

Despite being a big city girl, the places where I feel the most relaxed are Tuscany and outside in nature so we had our wedding at a villa in the Tuscan countryside followed by another event at Tavern on the Green in New York in the middle of Central Park.

Even if you don’t plan on a destination wedding, you can create your perfect wedding anywhere you choose. If you live in a big city but want a countryside wedding, look into your city parks and gardens and add some rustic décor to your table settings like lavender, baby’s breath and tree branches. If you live in the countryside but want a city feel for your wedding, then find a loft space or an industrial building and focus all of your efforts on the décor. Keep the tablecloths and flowers white or ivory, add mirrored disks to the table underneath the centerpieces, then add some white candles and silver bowls for the flowers. White and silver glam up any event but just make sure to keep it classy and sophisticated.

Flowers: Gorgeous hydrangea, brightly colored gerbera daisies, wild tropical orchids, soft sweet peas, classic roses, distinctive poppies or wild flowers…the list goes on and on. Choose your favorite flower or a flower that embodies you. Also, speak with your florist to find the right type of bouquet and centerpieces for you based on your gown and the overall wedding look and feel you are creating.

Music: Do you love jazz? Hip hop? Caribbean beats and reggae? Or are you more old school and adore big band hits and swing music? While you want to incorporate music that everyone at your wedding of all ages can enjoy, music can really set the scene at your reception. Look into bands and DJs that specialize in the music you love. Another option is to have more classical, fun for everyone music at the start of the night followed by your faves once it gets a bit later. If you have a favorite local band or DJ, start your search with them. You never know – they might be honored to play at your wedding…

Invitations: Many people don’t realize the importance of invitations. They are the very first thing that your guests receive. They are important because your guests will interpret what type of event you are having based on not only the text of your invitation but the style.

If you are having a low key, relaxed, yet elegant beach wedding then a simple invitation made of nice ivory card stock with a flowing pale blue script could work well. If you want to have a bit more fun, you could add a design of a shell at the top in the same pale blue.

Or if you are having a city wedding and you want to be bold, like your style, use a brighter color like red and select a stronger typeface in all capital letters.

There are so many things you can do with invitations from the card stock to the typeface and the designs you can add to personalize it – the options are limitless. Check out East Six in New York - http://www.eastsix.com/ - they do an amazing job at creating personalized invitations to suit your style.

Just make sure you have your wedding vision decided upon before selecting invitations so that they tell the story of your wedding.

Food and Drink: Are you foodies? Are you a wine connoisseur? Do you prefer a certain type of food or have a favorite cocktail? All of these elements should be taken into consideration when creating your wedding menu so that the menu reflects you and your groom’s preferences and styles.

Favors and wedding baskets: The little things count. Why not make your gifts personal so that your guests can remember and enjoy them? If you love wine, give a bottle of your favorite wine. If you love cupcakes, give your guests cupcakes at the end of the night. One bride that I know adores Christmas and she and her groom gave away silver Christmas ornaments with their names and their wedding date on one side with room for a photo of their guests at the wedding on the other side. Think about your hobbies and what you love and pass on the love to your guests so that they can enjoy it too.

Carolina Herrera Secret Sample Sale in NYC

2009-07-31T03:06:00.000-07:00

Calling all Brides-to-be who don’t yet have their perfect gown!

Carolina Herrera is having a sample sale on Saturday, August 8th from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm in New York City.

At the event you will find:

• 30-70% off Select Carolina Herrera Bridal Gowns
• Collections through Fall 2009
• Many sizes and styles available
• Mother of the bride and select evening wear 50% off

To be added to the guest list and for more information, please call 1-212-249-6552 and email Michelle Kim at Michelle.Kim@cherrera.com

To view Carolina Herrera's bridal gowns from Fall 2009 and before, go to:
http://www.brides.com/fashion/dresses/gallery/wedding_dresses/runway/designer/carolinaherrera?page=4

The wedding blog for men: GROOMASAURUS

2009-07-24T05:53:00.000-07:00

Calling all grooms! You just have to check out Groomasaurus. If you don't understand all of the wedding lingo, events, and traditions - don't fret! Jeff Kear, a groom himself, has created a wedding blog for men with the tagline: "Move over bridezilla....wedding planning is for grooms, too." Funny, right?

Jeff's blog enlightens men on the wedding issues: The music dilemma - Band, DJ or Ipod?, How many bridal showers can one have?, How to make the wedding registry guy-friendly?

You will also find many anecdotes and stories about Jeff's own journey to the altar, which will be in November in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Definitely check out the blog or pass it onto your groom!

http://groomasaurus.com/

Ask the Expert: Smoky eyes, Summer weddings

2009-07-21T03:03:00.000-07:00

Hey ladies,

With summer in full swing, planning last minute wedding details and lounging by the pool buried in fashion magazines, you may be thinking: Can I pull off a smoky eye for my wedding? We can’t get enough of some of this season’s trends, so why not include one of your favorite looks on your very special day?

Some variations of the smoky eye seen at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week for Fall 2009 were earth tones in darker shades that looked like colors seen in a forest. Warm browns and earth tones - like forest green with gold undertones - definitely compliment your summertime glowing bronzed body.

For a rich brown smoldering eye: Try blending Saddle or Folie shadow in the crease paired with Bronze, Sable or Mulch on the eyelid. Add Teddy pencil (all by M-A-C).

For an earthy green smoky eye: Blend Humid or Greensmoke eye shadow on the lid, blended with Tarnish pencil (all by M-A-C).

A more glam version of the smoky eye creates a show-stopping look for black tie and evening weddings.
To get this look: Try Carbon or Nehru shadow all over the lid up to the crease. Then liberally apply Smolder pencil all over the base of the lid adding a bit of darker blue shadows with a frost, such as Deep Truth or Freshwater, in the center of the lid to brighten and offset the darkness drawing attention to the sexy look of the eye makeup without looking too harsh. (all by M-A-C).

Brows are still going strong seen brushed and natural, so put down the tweezers and pick up a clear brow gel like Laura Mercier’s Eye Brow Gel, which is Amanda’s favorite.

Cheers,
Laura

Glowing review of Stellina Events by Laura Hooper Calligraphy!

2009-07-18T05:34:00.000-07:00

Great news! We are very excited to say that Stellina Events has just been featured on A Lucky Orchid Wedding - the official blog of Laura Hooper Calligraphy.

You may know Laura Hooper from her calligraphy work that was featured on Platinum Weddings on WEtv on May 24, 2009.

Check out the review at the link below:
http://luckyorchidwedding.blogspot.com/2009/07/spotlight-on-stellina-events.html

A breathtaking view in a lounge space on the Mediterranean: PHI BEACH, SARDINIA

2009-07-15T02:07:00.000-07:00

Picture yourself arriving by boat to be ushered down the aisle amidst sand and stone with endless views of the azure blue Mediterranean Sea. You and your groom exchange vows under the warm Sardinian sunset amongst all of your family and friends.

Champagne cocktails and mojitos are served with canapés following your vows with guests lounging on large white chiffon canopied beach beds whilst jazz music sets the scene in background.

Once the sun sets the entire space is lit up by fairy lights, which cue the start of a long supper of Italian regional specialties like frutti di mare, fresh pasta, sea bass caught locally on the island, and a scrumptious dessert.

After dinner the DJ turns the music up at the tiki bar to play the loungey jazz music combining old and new tunes to get everyone on the floor til the early morning hours. Fun is had by all and guests are left amazed by the sights and sounds of your big day.

With a sunset to leave you speechless, PHI Beach is a hip destination that is chock full of romance and allure. This is a venue for all those who love the lounge scene and are looking for a unique, memorable wedding. PHI Beach is located in the Costa Smeralda on the italian island of Sardinia.

I just returned from a holiday in Sardinia and the moment I discovered PHI Beach, I knew it would be a fantastic venue for a special couple out there. The manager of PHI Beach, Chicca, is lovely so if you are interested in this venue for your big day, you can contact her through the website below or just let me know and I can put you in touch with her.

For more information on PHI Beach, go to: http://www.phibeach.it/

If you love lounge music and this type of venue but don’t want to have to head all the way to Sardinia to find it, then don’t worry – you can create a similar environment to this one by doing the following:

- Find a wide open space on the water

- Ask your favorite local DJ at the lounge bar you adore to play at your wedding

- Do some research at the local rental companies to see where you can rent large wooden beach beds, teak lounge chairs and teak sculptures of different shape and sizes (your fave lounge bar might be able to help you with this info)

- Rent white cushions and chiffon to cover the chairs and beds

- Rent a tiki bar – ask your caterer for suggestions as to where to find one. This vendor may also be able to provide you with the furniture.

- Pick up some fairy lights to wind around any teak sculptures - don’t overdo it on the lights, just use them as nice accents to brighten up the space. Make sure to keep it elegant and chic, not Christmas-tree like.

- Find a caterer who specializes in Italian food or any food that you prefer but try to stick to one type of food to keep the island feeling going whether that be French, Japanese, Caribbean or any other favorites you have. (Do keep in mind that this is just a suggestion)

- Rent a row boat for someone to usher you to the wedding site – just be careful and make sure that you have enough room to sit in your gorgeous white gown!

Stop and smell the roses: a Bride’s dinner and a Groom’s dinner the night before your big day

2009-07-04T13:27:00.000-07:00

While it is customary to have the rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding, another option that I think is an interesting one is to move the rehearsal dinner either to 2 nights before the wedding or to have a rehearsal brunch the day before the wedding.

Why the change you ask? Because another great option is to spend the evening before your wedding having a bride’s dinner with your closest family and friends while your groom enjoys dinner with his nearest and dearest.

By spending the night apart you both get to have some time to relax, get all gushy with your family, talk about your crazy single days with your friends and share in the excitement of the day to come.

The dinner can be as fancy or as casual as you like whether you decide to have it in your parents’ home or at a restaurant in the area. It is completely up to you – the only requirement should be that it will take place somewhere where you can unwind.

A bride’s dinner could give you that bit of time you need to stop and smell the roses the evening before your big day.

The Kiss - Swap the traditional clinking of the glasses for this fun idea

2009-07-03T16:18:00.000-07:00

After everyone was seated in the spectacular Montreux Palace, Sue and Philip made an announcement asking all guests to forgo a tradition that is popular in the US and Canada = tapping glasses with silverware to encourage the bride and groom to kiss. Typically, the glass clinking is accompanied by shouts of “Kiss kiss kiss” from guests.

In lieu of this tradition, Sue and Philip asked each table to come up with a way to say “Love” using their creativity and upon completing this task sometime during dinner, the bride and groom would kiss.

The table that had the courage to go first stood up and sang a verse of “All You Need Is Love”. Another table wrote and performed a haiku. Our table planned to do a cheer but through planning got so deep into conversation that before we knew it we were all on the dance floor.

It was great fun, bonded the tables full of people who cared about the bride and groom but didn’t know one another and just made the evening that much more exciting and interactive.

Whether you enjoy the traditional clinking of the glasses or not, this is a great idea to break the ice at dinner tables during the reception and to get your guests to get to know one another through a fun activity. If you like the idea, why not go ahead and plan a similar task to the tables but put your own spin on it?

Your First Dance: How to combine tradition, style and culture

2009-06-29T13:05:00.000-07:00

So I am assuming that most of you have already seen the first dance on You Tube where the couple starts off dancing to Unchained Melody (aka: the song from the movie Ghost) and then breaks into a choreographed dance to Baby Got Back (see the link below). It is actually rather funny but how could you take this gimmicky idea and intertwine your culture and style whilst not making your first dance into a joke? Sue and Philip made it happen at their fabulous wedding on Lake Geneva in Switzerland.

What Sue and Philip did was combine the traditional dancing and culture of their respective backgrounds and gave it a modern twist. They began their first dance with a beautiful Austrian waltz. Then midway through the waltz, the music changed and on came Jai Ho from Slumdog Millionaire. All of Sue and Philip’s closest friends ran up to the dance floor with the bride and groom in the front leading in a choreographed dance. It was a huge surprise for guests and a sight to be seen!

By combining the classic Viennese waltz with Bollywood dancing, Sue and Philip managed to share in a lovely first dance, combine their two cultures, bring their friends into the mix and entertain all the guests. What more could you want?

Your first dance can be whatever you want it to be so why not be sentimental but also be a bit creative if that suits your style? It is your big day so have fun with it!

If you haven’t already seen the video I spoke of, take a look if you want to laugh…it is not in everyone’s taste but you will definitely giggle at least a little bit…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mAI7lsEfug

An amazing idea for bridesmaid dresses that will have all your girls smiling!

2009-06-26T05:32:00.000-07:00

Want to make your bridesmaids happy? Why pick one dress when they can each design their own (with bridal approval of course!)?

With bridesmaids from Los Angeles, Toronto, Amsterdam and Reykjavik – picking a dress could have been a difficult task for Sue. In fact, selecting a dress for all your girlfriends is difficult to begin with even if they are all living in the same town.

Sue easily solved this problem with an ingenious idea – Why not just buy a gorgeous fabric and then ship it off to the girls so that they could work with designers to create their own dresses? And so she did. With imported silk straight from India in a beautiful dark turquoise blue, each of Sue’s bridesmaids worked with a seamstress in their own cities to design their perfect dress. The only requirement was that it had to be cocktail length.

This is a great idea even if your bridesmaids are in the same city since most girls don’t love the thought of one uniform dress for everyone, especially when each person might have their individual style, and shape too!

With this approach you can choose the color you want that fits with your wedding vision but be sure to stay in close touch with your bridesmaids, help them find a seamstress to work with (if you are familiar with the area) and absolutely give them some instructions for the design of the dress (e.g. must be cocktail length, must be gown length, should be v-neck, dress needs to have a cap sleeve, etc).

The proof is in the pudding and these were very happy bridesmaids. Good work Sue!!!

Bringing culture into your wedding the right way: Sue & Philip's Wedding, Montreux, Switzerland

2009-06-25T01:38:00.000-07:00

She is from Canada and is Hindu. He is from Austria and is Protestant. Together on Sunday, May 31, 2009 they created an unforgettable wedding meshing together two very different backgrounds with different cultures and religions leaving guests in awe. It was truly a spectacular event.

There are many great ideas from Sue and Philip’s wedding that made it so memorable. Throughout the following week I will share with you the key elements of the wedding that can be used as inspiration for your upcoming nuptials to make your wedding an event not to be forgotten.

So how do you bring your cultures into your wedding in the right way? = With sophistication, style and a whole lot of fun!

Stay tuned for some fabulous ideas...

The best kept secret of a happy bride on her wedding day: DELEGATE!

2009-06-20T07:28:00.000-07:00

To all those brides out there who are stressing about every big and little issue while preparing for your upcoming nuptials –

First of all, please give yourself a pat on the back. Planning a wedding is hard and you deserve to take some time out to treat yourself for all of the time, emotion and effort it takes to plan a wedding, whether you are planning it on your own, with your family and friends or working with a planner - organizing a wedding can be tons of fun but is still a difficult task and you need to be good to yourself.

Second, there are ways to help yourself out as your big day draws nearer. After planning my wedding for a year and a half, I decided to take some key advice from my FAB (Friend and Bridesmaid) who suggested that I make the most of my wedding party. And so I did.

The month before my wedding I sat down and figured out what last minute details needed to be managed and sorted out the week of my wedding, including the To Do’s for the big day. I then divided up responsibilities amongst all of my bridesmaids as well as their dates and my groom-to-be, of course. Everyone was happy to help and excited to be part of the wedding.

Just remember, delegating is not your opportunity to turn on your inner bridezilla - it is just a chance for you to ask your friends and groom for a bit of help when you most need it, whether you would like someone to accompany you to your final appointments, have your groom be responsible for all last minute details with your wedding venue or ask a few of your nearest and dearest to help you get ready on your big day.

By delegating the major responsibilities of the day, you will be able to sit back, relax and enjoy your wedding day without all the last minute logistical worries so that you can focus on the most important parts of the day – saying your vows to your fiancé and having a fabulous time celebrating with your family and friends!

So all I have to say to you is “Delegate! Delegate! Delegate!” – your friends and family are there for you so trust them to relieve some of the pressure on your big day so that you can have the time of your life…

Looking for an amazing bakery in Brooklyn? Check out LADYBIRD BAKERY in Park Slope!

2009-06-15T02:32:00.000-07:00

For the past two weeks, I have been on vacation in Switzerland, Virginia and New York to attend 2 weddings (more to come on the events soon) and spend some time with friends and family. During my trips I am always on the lookout for new inspiration and last Thursday I found some. While walking around Park Slope in Brooklyn with my mother, someone we met suggested that we check out Ladybird Bakery, which used to be known as Two Little Red Hens - a bakery that was opened in 1992. The spectacular Ladybird Bakery is owned by Marie Louise Clemens, one of the original owners of Two Little Red Hens. Since we were in the mood for some sweets we headed to the bakery and picked up a chocolate mousse tart with whipped cream sprinkled with chocolate shavings, a red velvet cupcake and one of their famed Brooklyn Blackout cupcakes. The moment my fingers touched the red velvet cake, I knew I was in for a special treat. The cake was incredibly moist and actually had a soft velvet-like texture while the cream just melted in my mouth – I couldn’t help but smile when eating this wonderful cupcake. The chocolate mousse tart was the perfect blend of creamy rich chocolate and fluffy light, but not too light, whipped cream. Last, but absolutely not least, the Brooklyn Blackout cupcake was amazing. My mother and grandmother sat there reminiscing of how it tasted just like the blackout cake from the beloved Ebinger Baking Company, a bakery in Brooklyn that was a favorite of older generations of Brooklynites and was founded in 1898.

Not only does Ladybird have cupcakes and pies to die for but they design and create wedding cakes with a full list of scrumptious flavors of cakes and fillings as well as a list of their specialty cakes (Brooklyn Blackout included!). So if you are looking for a cake that your guests will definitely eat and love every bit of (while wondering if they can ask for more) definitely give Ladybird Bakery a call or just stop by – Ladybird is located in the south Slope on 8th Avenue between 11th and 12th streets (You can take the F train straight there).

For more information on Ladybird Bakery and their cake flavors, check out:
http://www.ladybirdbakery.com/

Ask the Expert: How to get the perfect tan for your big day

2009-06-02T03:28:00.000-07:00

Hey Ladies,

To get the perfect tan for your wedding, here are some products that I love to use. They create a beautiful bronze look without the mess of spray tanning and minus the not-so-lovely orange hue of most self tanning products.

1. For a gradual hydrating subtle self tan, or to maintain color after a vacation, try Aveno Continuous Radiance Moisturizing Lotion with natural soy and gradual color enhancer. It's best used 3-4 times a week, one month before the big day.

2. MAC Skinsheen leg spray - It is non-greasy mouse formula, and gives a bronzed tan that lasts a few days. It will not get on your clothes or sheets. It will gradually fade over a few days. Apply all over the body on dry clean skin, and do not moisturize before using.

3. To add an extra glowing shimmer to the body on the day of your wedding, use Golden Bronze Loose Powder by MAC. Use a large powder brush, like #150 by MAC, and lightly dust all over the body.

Tips on self tanning
- Always test out the product before the day of your wedding to make sure you get a desirable tone. I highly recommend using a body buffer brush to help eliminate streaks or uneven tones.

- Make sure you apply the tanning products on clean, dry skin (no body lotion beforehand) in order to ensure that the tanner doesn’t rub off on your clothes.

- Be extra careful when using the Golden Bronze Loose Powder by MAC as it can get on clothes so definitely make sure to apply it before you put your gown on ladies!

Happy tanning!

Til next time,
Laura

How to choose songs for your wedding? Look to Hollywood…

2009-05-21T02:05:00.000-07:00

When planning my own wedding, I discovered that the best way for me to decide on key songs for my ceremony and reception was to look to my favorite films - films that had the essence that I wanted to portray. What songs create the mood you want everyone to feel? What scenes from movies are in your head because the music left you speechless? What songs have meaning for you?

For my wedding, I wanted the ceremony to be ethereal while the reception was enchanting, chic and fun. I used the music to make the event flow from one stage to the next. So in order to create this imagery, my ceremony music included Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and “Moon River” from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The recessional was to “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” in order to spread the joy of our nuptials amongst the crowd. A swing band created the mood for the reception with a few songs from my favorite film (When Harry Met Sally) including “It Had To Be You” – which was 1 of our two wedding songs. The second song was “Your Song” by Al Jarreau (also sang in Moulin Rouge).

Using music to create the mood of your wedding day is the perfect way to illicit emotion and usher guests from one part of your wedding to the next. The music is the beautiful satin bow that ties every element up for your wedding to create the perfect day. Think of which movies inspire you and make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. When you were younger, which movies made you dream of your wedding day? Was it Father of the Bride or My Best Friend’s Wedding or an old classic like It Had to Be You (the original Runaway Bride with Ginger Rogers)? Chances are that your favorite romantic film might be the key to selecting your wedding music – so go ahead and watch some movies – let the films guide you towards your selection.

Fabulously fun maps and gorgeous calligraphy: LAURA HOOPER CALLIGRAPHY

2009-05-20T05:02:00.001-07:00

So you are planning a destination wedding or a wedding where you have tons of out-of-town guests or maybe you and your groom have decided to return to your hometown to celebrate your nuptials? For all of these reasons you should include a map of the location, whether as your Save the Date, within your invitation, on your wedding website or in a welcome basket when guests arrive. So why not make it fun?

Laura Hooper of Laura Hooper Calligraphy has found a way to make maps fun, creative and distinctly original. She illustrates colorful maps of your location (see photos above) that tell a story. If the location is of your hometown you can pinpoint important spots that tell the story of your childhood or if you grew up together, then the birth and lineage of your relationship with your groom. If you are getting married in an exotic destination and everyone is turning your wedding into a vacation, the map could point out where your vows and the reception will take place as well as the top tourist attractions in the area. The map could also be used as a guide for any activities you have planned for your destination wedding.

In addition, Laura creates tote bags with the maps printed on them – what a great welcome gift for guests! A map is often necessary but who says that it can’t be a fabulous tool to get guests excited for your wedding and make it even more memorable?

As you can tell by her company name, Laura Hooper’s talents focus not only on map design but first and foremost, Laura is a calligrapher. Her calligraphy is absolutely stunning. Whether you are looking for someone to address all of your envelopes or you want that special touch where each invitation is individually written out in calligraphy – she can do it all.

If you are looking to have a monogram created to ensure your unique signature on all of your stationery for your wedding and years after, Laura can create a personalised monogram just for the two of you.

Take a look at some examples of her work above. Laura is truly an artist.

While Laura is based in California, she works with brides and grooms from all over so if you like what you see, definitely check out her website.

For more information on Laura Hooper calligraphy and maps, go to:
http://www.lhcalligraphy.com/

Great idea! - WEDDING TREASURE CHEST (aka: Time Capsule)

Laura also has her own blog where she shares ideas and photos of prior weddings she has worked on. One of her contact’s ideas, which I cannot help but share with all of you because it is so amazing, is to have a treasure chest at your wedding which serves as a type of time capsule. Rather than describe it myself, see Laura’s description below. I just love this idea!

“One of my contacts at Elizabeth Anne Designs recently renewed her wedding vows and had the sweetest idea to celebrate with her husband and their friends and family - a time capsule guest book. Each guest was given a folder in which they had materials to write down their 2009 resolutions, favorite memories of the couple, predictions for the next 10 years and their favorite things today. They had also been instructed to bring a non-perishable item that represented them now. Their folders and items all went into an adorable antique chest. The happy couple completed the time capsule by putting in one of their own programs, that day’s newspaper, and other various keepsakes from the event. Maybe they will have another vow renewal down the line and dig into the time capsule.”

To view Laura’s blog entry go to:
http://luckyorchidwedding.blogspot.com/2009/05/wedding-day-time-capsules.html

If you and your hubby-to-be decide to develop a Wedding Treasure Chest then this will be the perfect excuse to get your family and friends together for an anniversary trip or party to open up the box, whether you want to celebrate after 1 year, 5 years or 10 years of marriage. You can open up the treasure chest / time capsule and share all of your memories of your wedding day and all of their special memories held within the box once again. What a wonderful way to celebrate your love and happiness…

To read Laura’s blog go to:
http://www.luckyorchidwedding.blogspot.com/

The Wedding Salon: Upcoming events in New York, Miami and West Hollywood

2009-05-19T07:17:00.000-07:00

The Wedding Salon, the world’s first luxury wedding showcase, has a list of great events coming up in New York, Florida and California including their bridal bootcamp where you can meet tons of different vendors to provide you with inspiration for your big day.

See the link below for a list of upcoming events in your area:

http://www.weddingsalon.com/events.cfm

The Wedding Salon also supports the Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation, a foundation aimed at granting wishes for metastatic breast cancer patients while continuing to support, educate and increase resource awareness.

http://www.weddingsalon.com/index2.cfm

A wedding fit for Scarlett O’Hara: MONMOUTH PLANTATION

2009-05-13T12:14:00.000-07:00

I have been looking for ages for the perfect location for a wedding on a southern plantation and I have just found it – Monmouth Plantation leaves me speechless. It is a property that will take your breath away from the spectacular architecture to the rolling gardens and archways draped with Spanish moss – absolutely magnificent.

Located in Natchez, Mississippi, just a few hours north of New Orleans, Louisiana, Monmouth Plantation is a National Historic Landmark. It is a small luxury inn featuring 30 gorgeous guest rooms and suites. Originally built by John Hankinson in 1818, Monmouth Plantation was purchased by General John A. Quitman, a hero of the Mexican War in 1826 and remained in his family for nearly a century.

Monmouth Plantation’s beauty and elegance have earned it numerous accolades within the hotel industry as well as within the architectural field including:
- A Four Diamond rating from AAA
- Listed within Condé Nast’s 2006 Gold List
- Listed within Travel + Leisure’s 2006 Top 500 Hotels of the World
- Glamour magazine and USA Today both called it one of the 10 most romantic places in America
- Zagat has named it “One of the Top 50 U.S. Inns & B&Bs”
- American Historic Inns says it is “One of the Top Ten Most Romantic Inns of the Year”
- The hotel is featured in 1000 Places To See Before You Die

If you are looking for a uniquely romantic location for your upcoming nuptials and southern opulence and beauty sound like your style, then you just have to check out Monmouth Plantation. This is a destination where dreams come true and fairytales come alive.

For more information on Monmouth Plantation please go to:
http://208.109.246.81/contents/index.php?PG=home.html&nav_id=1

To see the Monmouth Plantation blog go to:
http://monmouthplantationnatchez.blogspot.com/

Click on the link below to check out the reviews of Monmouth Plantation on Trip Advisor:
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g60910-d78698-Reviews-Monmouth_Plantation-Natchez_Mississippi.html

For more photos of Monmouth Plantation go to:
http://www.expedia.co.uk/pub/agent.dll?qscr=dspv&flag=l&itid=&itdx=&itty=&from=f&foop=0&hwrq=&htid=3849&spsh=&spsi=&crti=4&nfla=1&mdpcid=expe.uk.001.010.01.ExpediaHotelImagesGDSUK.Hotel_Review

For the sexy bride: Agent Provocateur bridal & bridal showers

2009-05-12T11:21:00.000-07:00

In the search for beautiful, innocent yet sultry lingerie whether for your wedding night or your honeymoon, most girls wish that their favorite lingerie company had a line of bridal lingerie. For those favoring alluring, adorable and spicy looks you can now turn to Agent Provocateur, which has just created a bridal line of lingerie. From pretty and dainty bras with bows to oh-so-perfect bustiers, the line is perfect for a bride-to-be who is a bit of a vixen or just wants to be on her honeymoon...

To view the bridal line, go to:
http://www.agentprovocateur.com/bridal.html

The great news doesn’t stop there - You can now organise bridal showers at Agent Provocateur! You, your family and your best friends can now all celebrate your upcoming vows by closing down your local Agent Provocateur shop and shopping til you drop! Why have friends bring gifts to the party when they can be there to help you pick out your trousseau? Shopping, champagne and your closest friends - now doesn't that sound like a fabulous way to celebrate?

Agent Provocateur bridal showers include the following treats:

• Exclusive use of the store between 6-8pm for you and your party

• Complimentary glass of champagne and canapés

• A special gift with purchase for all the guests

• A decadently naughty goody bag for the bride

Participating Stores:

- Boston

- Knightsbridge, London

- Manchester

- Glasgow

- Puerto Banus

- Munich

For more information please email brides@agentprovocateur.com or go to:
http://www.agentprovocateur.com/bridalshowers.html

For the love of cupcakes: VIOLET CAKES by Claire Ptak

2009-05-08T09:52:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for a sweet gift to give your guests at the end of your wedding? You know it will be late and they will have danced their stilettos off – so why not give them a sweet reminder of all the fun they had by sending them on their way with a beautiful cupcake or two? Wrap them up in pretty boxes and voila!- a delicious reminder for their trip home or the next morning of what a lovely day they had watching you and your beloved tie the knot.

If you, like me, are always in search of the perfect cupcake – one that has a light, moist and tasty cake topped with creamy icing that is not too sweet but full of yumminess and flavour - then definitely head to Broadway Market in east London where you can meet with Claire Ptak and try her fabulous cupcakes. Every Saturday, Claire sells her cupcakes at the market - you will spot the stand immediately when you enter the market so long as you look out for the "Violet" sign representing her Violet Cakes company. Not only does Claire offer cupcakes but she also sells mini cupcakes so you can give your guests a few different flavors to try. Mouthwatering flavors like Salted caramel, Coconut milk, Candied violet, Rhubarb & strawberry jam, Alphonso mango, Lime cream, Lemon cream, Vanilla bean and Valrhona chocolate cover the Violet cupcake table. Claire can even create a tower of cupcakes if you are thinking of forgoing the traditional cake for fun, individual cupcakes. A native Californian, Claire Ptak comes to London from the famous restaurant – Chez Panisse in Berkeley, CA – where she spent 3 years as a pastry chef. London is oh so lucky to have her now!

For more information on Violet Cakes by Claire Ptak, please go to:
http://www.violetcakes.com/

To learn more about Claire, check out her profile in The Independent:
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/profiles/closeup-claire-ptak-765195.html

For information on how to get to Broadway Market, go to:
http://www.broadwaymarket.co.uk/

Additionally, Claire began writing a cookery column in The Guardian newspaper in the UK in November 2007. Take a look at her recipes within each article for ways to create mouthwatering desserts:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/allotment/2007/nov/26/inthefirstofher

http://www.guardian.co.uk/profile/claireptak

To learn about Chez Panisse in Berkeley, California, go to:

http://www.chezpanisse.com/index.html

Hippy Chic: How to go green on your big day

2009-05-07T06:41:00.000-07:00

So you want to have a fabulous wedding but you want to be kind to the earth as well. Not to worry – there are lots of different ways big and small that you can be environmentally friendly and savvy…just find the right ways for you. Here are some ideas to inspire:

10 Steps to a Green Wedding by the Sierra Club
Go to the Sierra Club’s website and find out what they say are the 10 steps to creating a green wedding from your choice of invitation paper to the location – you can help nature every step of the way.
http://www.sierraclub.typepad.com/greenlife/2007/03/10_steps_to_a_g.html

Green wedding gowns (in white of course!)

If you are more of the hippy type or just want to ditch the satin for a dress more eco-friendly that is amazingly designed and innovative, check out Alabama Chanin’s latest line of wedding gowns. The label’s designer/owner Natalie Chanin is known for her folk-inspired, detail-rich collections and now she adds wedding couture to her lifestyle brand. The 50-piece collection consists of v-neck gowns, relaxed, tunic inspired dresses, as well as skirts and tanks. Depending on your style, some of the pieces would even be perfectly suited to a rehearsal dinner or a day after brunch or BBQ.

Each gown is hand-sewn by artisans living in her local community of Florence, Alabama while the actual stitching techniques used to create the gowns originated in the US Depression-era South. To keep the dresses as eco-friendly as possible, the materials used are a combination of certified organic cotton and recycled materials, which help reduce the “footprint” of the dresses. Each piece of the collection is made in-house and manufacturing is only begun when an order is confirmed, which helps to minimize waste. Any leftover pieces are then used to create pillows, trims and bedding.

For more information on Alabama Chanin’s wedding couture go to:
http://alabamachanin.com/content/bridal-cover

How about an eco-friendly honeymoon?

Check out destinations in ecotourism like http://www.ecoclub.com/lodges.html
to find eco-friendly hotels and tours around the world.

Invitations that even Mother Nature could love

Earthly Affair: Earth friendly invitations
http://www.earthlyaffair.com/

Invite Site – eco invitations
http://www.invitesite.com/weddings/Eco-wedding-invitations-page1.php

Handmade paper invitations
http://www.oftheearth.org/

Environmentally Friendly Registering

Why not top up your china and flatware registry by providing guests with an additional option of giving to one of your favorite eco-charities? Whether you want to give some love to the cuddly creatures, rainforests or marine life, take a look at the Wedding Channel link below to find the charity that is right for you:
http://wedding.weddingchannel.com/catalog/store_information.asp?retailer_uid=10901&placement=18&linkUID=201&p=1030&l=121576

Eco-chic Wedding Blogs

http://www.ecochicweddings.typepad.com/

http://earthfriendlywedding.blogspot.com/

http://www.blueplanetwedding.com/blog/

http://www.green-weddings.com/

http://greatgreenwedding.com/blog/

DRAMA = Bridesmaid dresses: How to make (and keep) all of your girlfriends happy

2009-05-05T05:20:00.001-07:00

So you are engaged (Congratulations!!!) and you have already chosen your bridesmaids and maid-of-honor – Good job! But now, before you have even selected your color scheme and your venues you are starting to hear some feedback from your friends:
“I don’t like lavender”
“I hate my cankles so I want to wear a long gown”
“I want a cocktail dress that I can wear again”

You love your friends and family but are beginning to wonder why you needed bridesmaids to begin with and whose wedding is it anyway? Don’t worry – there are ways to remedy this dilemma.

First of all – remember what great friends you have and that they are just afraid of having to wear (and pay for) a monster of a dress or gown that might not be their color, fit their figure or just not look good on them.

Second – tell them not to worry…you love them and want them to look their beautiful. If you are afraid of them stealing your thunder – don’t be! You are the bride so you will, of course, look absolutely gorgeous and outshine everyone since it is your day. So why not be there for your girlfriends and help them to look their best as well?

How can you do this you ask?
My suggestion would be to select a range of gowns or dresses where you can pick the material and the color while the girls choose the dress or gown that they love most. I am a huge fan of offering bridesmaids a range of different styles to suit their body type but also selecting styles that don’t look so bridesmaidey so that your friends can wear the dress again and again with nobody knowing that it was part of a wedding party.

With regards to the color, if you have a color that you love go ahead and run it by your friends, maybe they will love it, maybe they won’t, but it might also help you to think of other color choices that you had not thought of. For example, my friend couldn’t bear to buy a 6th lavender bridesmaid dress and I had my heart set on lavender. With her protests, we ended up brainstorming and discovering that a dark plum color would look gorgeous, be flattering on all the girls, fit the overall wedding look and it turned out to be absolutely perfect! By going with this approach, your wedding party will look both uber-stylish and happy.

Here are some great places to find beautiful dresses and gowns that would make any bridesmaid smile:

Vera Wang
Vera Wang has gorgeous bridesmaid dresses and gowns that come in different fabrics and colors. You can easily select a few different cuts within the same color and fabric and offer your friends these different dresses to choose from. Any girl would love a Vera, so why not help them build their collection with a fabulous dress or gown? Check out the store locator on the Vera Wang website to find the store nearest you.
http://www.verawangonweddings.com/

The Butter Dress by Nadia
A friend of mine just introduced me to this wonderful creation. This is a dress you can wear countless ways and comes in tons of different shades so you pick your color and then your bridesmaid decides how she wants to wear the dress. How could you go wrong?

You can buy the Butter dress online at the Butter by Nadia website:
http://www.butterbynadia.com/collections.html

Alternatively, you can buy the Butter dress at Calypso in New York:
http://www.calypso-celle.com/shop/cart.php

Or to find the dress at a discount, check out the Calypso outlet:
CALYPSO Outlet
407 Broome Street NY, NY 10013
(212) 941-9700
Mon-Sat 11-7, Sun 12-7

Jenny Yoo
With tons of styles and colors to choose from, some more fashion forward and some more traditional, you will be able to decide on the color that you love while giving your friends a ton of options for dresses and gowns that will thrill them and look fantastic in your wedding pics.

http://www.jennyyoo.com/home.html

ASK THE EXPERT: For Skin That Glows all Day …without the greasy look

2009-04-29T10:56:00.000-07:00

As promised, our resident NYC Makeup Artist – Laura Pugliese (that's her photo on the left) – has provided us with the secrets to glowing skin that won’t look greasy on your wedding day. Check out her recommendations below.

Hey Ladies-

Looking for that healthy movie star glow on your big day? Here are my current favorites to ensure flawless radiance all day. With just a few simple steps, your skin will steer clear of unwanted shine and the dreaded greasy look for your wedding pictures! Plus, they have the added benefit of working well with all skin types.

Products:
MAC Prep and Prime Skin SPF 50
MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural Powder (pressed)
Armani Silk Foundation
Makeup Forever high-definition Loose Powder

How to get the look:
-First, apply a thin layer of MAC Prep and Prime SPF 30 using a foundation brush
-Use Armani Silk Foundation all over the face and neck
-Finish with High Definition Loose Powder from Makeup Forever

For more coverage add:
-MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Powder (pressed)

Beautiful glowing skin that will be picture perfect from “I Do” til after you cut the cake!

If you have any makeup questions that you want answered, go ahead and post them on the Stellina Events Facebook page and I will answer them in an upcoming blog post.

Cheers,
LP

To find Stellina Events on Facebook go to:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/London-United-Kingdom/Stellina-Events/76001007135

Stellina Events is on Facebook!

2009-04-29T10:54:00.000-07:00

I am happy to say that Stellina Events now has a Facebook page so stay tuned for the latest wedding trends, fashion updates, and chats about all things wedding on our page!

You can find the Stellina Events page on Facebook by clicking the link below:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/London-United-Kingdom/Stellina-Events/76001007135

Smart gown shopping

2009-04-22T10:21:00.000-07:00

While you are attending appointment after appointment at department stores and bridal shops looking for the perfect wedding gown, don’t forget to take note of the prices of your favorite gowns. When you find one you like, make sure to price it out at all of the stores in your area since department stores many times will have different prices. Saks Fifth Avenue in the US, for instance, is a good store – they tend to price the same gown or tuxedo lower than other high end department stores.

If you find a gown you like, definitely do your research to find out where the designer is holding upcoming trunk shows in your area since you may have the opportunity to meet the designer at the show as well as get a discount on the gowns.

If you have found a few gowns you love but you aren’t getting married until the following year, why not wait until the big sales? Bridal designers come out with new designs twice a year so all of the gowns left over from previous collections are usually reduced in price if you attend specific sale events.

For example, if you live anywhere near New York City you will definitely want to head to Kleinfeld’s biannual sales event.
Go to http://kleinfeldbridal.com/index.cfm for more details.

For a list of Kleinfeld’s upcoming trunk shows go to:
http://kleinfeldbridal.com/index.cfm?pid=6

Introducing Daily Candy Weddings!

2009-04-14T03:09:00.000-07:00

For those of you who live for Daily Candy (or those who don’t yet but will following this blog), I am thrilled to say that Daily Candy now has a weddings website! On the site you will find ideas on wedding design as well as local vendors within the cities that the column focuses on, which include: London, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington, DC. So go sign up for Daily Candy and start getting the info delivered straight to your inbox!

To sign up, just go to:
http://www.dailycandy.com/weddings/

NYC Makeup Artist Laura Pugliese joins the Stellina Events blog team of experts!

2009-04-07T10:22:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to announce that Laura Pugliese, an amazingly talented makeup artist has just signed on to be a Stellina Events blog contributor. Now all brides, no matter where you are located, can receive advice from Laura straight from New York City. Laura has worked on countless advertising campaigns online, in print and for commercials for brands such as Nike and Olay, at Fashion Shows for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, for TV shows such as Saturday Night Live, on music videos, on theatre productions like Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids and for magazines like GQ. She is really fantastic and we are happy to have her as part of the Stellina Events blogging team.

For more information on Laura, please go to:
http://lauraelizabeth.carbonmade.com/

Stay tuned to the coming blogs for Laura’s first entry on how to get beautiful glowing skin on your wedding day…

A new color palette: Ballerina hues

2009-04-06T07:14:00.000-07:00

So you are bored with chocolate, turquoise, and lavender and are looking for something a bit new and fresh but very pretty. The color palette of ballerina hues - pale pinks, cafe au lait, the softest khaki – are hues that will compliment the white or crème of your gown, but allow for the whole bridal party to appear to be floating on air, like a ballerina. Blush-toned flower arrangements with some green leaves as an accent will make guests feel like they are walking through a heavenly garden.

If you like the soft tones but want to spice it up a bit, have your bridesmaids accessorize with coral accents such as a necklace, chandelier earrings or a statement ring in a shade of the peachiest coral (but be careful it isn’t too red, more peach-toned). Makeup in peachy shades (like Lancome Colour Fever Gloss in Solaire and MAC crème blush in Blossoming) work great with this look. The contrast between the coral and the softest ballerina hues is surprising, modern and beautiful. Plus jewellery always makes a great gift for your bridesmaids!

In case you like the two dresses above, please find more information on where to buy them below:

The long gown is by Tadashi and can be purchased online at Saks Fifth Avenue. Please go to:

http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446206577&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=282574492715030&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474399545537&bmUID=1239027959415&ev19=1:70

The strapless dress is by Shoshanna and can be purchased online at Saks Fifth Avenue. Please go to:

http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446218546&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=282574492715022&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474399545537&bmUID=1239028599826&ev19=3:43

A Great Tip to Finding a Fabulous Makeup Artist (no matter your price range or location): MAC

2009-04-04T02:59:00.000-07:00

Looking for an amazing makeup artist but can’t find the right one or have found a bunch but not in your price range? No problem! MAC really solves these problems for brides making it easy to find a qualified makeup artist no matter where you live or your budget.

If you have searched high and low for a makeup artist but can’t find one that knows how to use makeup to compliment your natural beauty (rather than lay on the lavender eye shadow and heavy foundation) then look no further than MAC. All of the makeup artists at MAC stores and at MAC stands in malls are trained makeup artists. A lot of them work at MAC for a day job and freelance on the side at photo shoots for ad campaigns, magazines, TV, movies or theatre – these are real professionals who treat your face like a canvas and whilst they can do the crazy dramatic makeup, they are also pros at the basics which is turning any girl into a blushing bride by enhancing her natural beauty, which is what your wedding look should be all about. Fees for makeup artists at MAC to come to you on your wedding day are based on the professional’s background and base location (e.g. NY and London artists would most likely be pricier than those based in smaller cities)

If you are looking to spend some money on your makeup but nowhere near $250 or £200, then why not make an appointment for a consultation with a MAC makeup artist at the local MAC shop or stand to get some ideas? There is a fee for the consultation (see below) and then rather than hire the makeup artist for your wedding, why not just buy the products that you really like for your wedding and then have a good friend or family member who you know and trust that is talented at painting her face to have her do your makeup on your wedding day?

If, however, you live in a city that doesn’t have a MAC shop or a stand at your local mall, don’t fret! The MAC website (the main one) has two fabulous services (free of charge!) that can help brides-to-be design their look.

One service is called Email an Artist, where you plug in your contact details, your attributes (eye colour, skin type, skin tone, hair colour, etc) and your big question (e.g. I am looking for a perfect wedding look, I want dewy skin, a smoky eye but not too smoky, and a light peachy lip – please help!). Then a MAC makeup artist reviews your question and emails you a full list of instructions as to how to create your look, which MAC products you should use and how to use them to create this look. You can then purchase products if you like since they deliver all around the US and UK. If you choose this option, I would highly recommend selecting some ideas beforehand from magazine photos so that you can have a reference to the looks you like.

Another service is called Chat Live with an Artist. With this service you can speak to a MAC makeup artist live online on instant messenger to brainstorm ideas with them regarding your wedding look. This is just another great way to get some direct advice from MAC makeup artists when you don’t have a MAC shop nearby.

MAC makeup is certainly one of my favourites – they have wonderful shades, great products and amazingly talented makeup artists. If you are having trouble finding a makeup artist, then definitely check them out!

Prices for consultations vary by location:
In the US consultations cost $50 and you get a free mascara
In the UK consultations cost £25 and the price comes off any product you buy

In the US (or for the two online services above) go to:
http://www.maccosmetics.com/

In the UK go to:
http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/templates/door/finder.tmpl

A New Way to Celebrate: The Renaissance of the Slumber Party

2009-03-30T10:39:00.000-07:00

So you just got engaged and you are beaming. You know who you want to ask to be your maid of honor and your bridesmaids but you don’t know exactly how to ask them. You want to make it special and fun but you are looking for a new idea. Why not return to your childhood dreams and share them with your BFFs by throwing a slumber party to invite your friends to be part of your bridal party? You could stock your apartment with stacks of wedding magazines, watch your favorite childhood flicks (maybe St. Elmo’s, The Breakfast Club, Heathers or Troop Beverly Hills?), have a mixology course in your living room to try out potential signature cocktails for your wedding or engagement party, buy a selection of cakes to provide inspiration for your wedding cake and just have a good old fashioned great time with your best girls. This type of party never goes out of style and it might be a refreshing change from nights out in the city. No matter whether you are 25, 30 or 35, spending time with your closest friends is one of the best ways to put a smile on your face and get you on the floor laughing – you can be crazy, young, silly, and most of all yourself. Who better to celebrate your engagement with than your friends who have seen you through thick and thin, the bad dates, the great dates, and to help you get ready to marry the man that you love?

Another option here of course, is for the maid of honor or chief bridesmaid to organize this party once the bridal party is formed. The idea for the bridal slumber party is that it occurs at the beginning of the engagement – it is a way for the bride-to-be to share her excitement about her upcoming nuptials and to reminisce with her great friends about the past, to be a kid again before starting her new journey. Being engaged is a very exciting time and having her friends surrounding her, supporting her and celebrating with her makes this time all that much more special.

If, however, the members of the bridal party all live in different locations (e.g. different states, cities or countries), then you could always throw the slumber party at the very end of the engagement. If you know that your bridal party will all be in town before the wedding, why not invite them into town a day earlier than expected. You could do pre-wedding home spa treatments (no facials for the bride please!), and help the bride relax and get ready for the wedding, whether that means assembling cones for flower petals or just chilling out and watching your favorite wedding films (like Father of the Bride, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, My Best Friend’s Wedding).

On a more personal note, my closest friends (you know who you are) helped make my engagement a wonderful experience – they were there for me every step of the way to make sure I was laughing all the way through and happy. I cannot say enough how much I treasure each and every one of them for their support and their generosity. I had the time of my life thanks to them so for all the bridesmaids out there – just care for your friend and why not throw a slumber party in her honor to bring back the child in all of us - Just think of the 4 Cs – Candy, Chocolate, Cocktails and Cake – and you can’t go wrong!