African-American Brides Website

Wordless Wednesday: Dramatic Black & White

2011-12-14T08:04:00.000-08:00

Blissful Weddings by
Angie Nicole Photography

Real Bride: Elegant Braid Hairstyle

2011-12-12T11:07:00.000-08:00

Submitted by Eva
We love, love, LOVE featuring real brides. Share your bridal style with us! See more hairdos on our African-American wedding hairstyles blog.

Get On the Move For the Holidays

2011-12-12T10:00:00.000-08:00

Keeping Your Bridal Glow Through the Winter

2011-12-07T12:13:00.001-08:00

Cake Toppers by DandelionLand

2011-11-23T09:06:00.001-08:00

Are you thinking outside-of-the-box when it comes to cake toppers? If so, you're not the only one. Surfing around Etsy can turn up lots of options. Here are some custom designs from DandelionLand.

Trend Alert: Parasols

2011-09-27T12:34:00.000-07:00

We know that Spring and Summer bridal fashions are bringing out the parasols this year. Take a look at some of the lovelies created by
Priscilla's Parasols.

Hat tip to BrideChic!
Dresses & Headpieces in pics 1,3 and 4: Amy-Jo Tatum Bridal Couture

Michelle and Sean

2011-08-31T12:21:00.000-07:00

From Janet Howard Studio
Atlanta, GA

$100 Gift Certificate Giveaway!

2011-07-18T08:45:00.000-07:00

Ladies! When you're planning a wedding, what's better than a really good deal? A freebie, that's what! Ann's Bridal Bargains is giving away a $100 gift certificate to one very lucky African-AmericanBrides.com reader.

Entering the contest is super easy. Just leave a comment on this blog post and that's it. Two weeks from now we'll use the random generator to choose a winner. It could SO be you!

Save Money on Summer Picks

2011-06-24T09:46:00.001-07:00

Click below to find out how!

Bride Beware: Getting Smart About Vendors

2011-06-01T08:48:00.000-07:00

-by Brittiny

Don't let your heart overtake your brain when dealing with vendor contracts. If a price is too good to be true, ask exactly what you are getting for that price and have it put in your contracts because it just may be too good! If a decor professional is charging you $3500 for food, decor, linens, and favors, and your guest list is 200 people, it should start raising flags. Ask for pictures of other events with that budget and ask to see their serving pieces as well as a sampling of their foods. If they do not put what types of centerpieces and flowers in your contract, it may be best to walk away. Any vendor worth their weight in gold will be happy to accommodate your wishes and make a more detailed contract.

Time and time again I hear from heart broken brides whose contracts stated, "a lot" of flowers or whose vendors simply aren't as professional as they would have hoped. Make sure your florist specifies the types of flowers that will be used. Do not fall for the "bait and switch" at bridal shows. At shows we show our best work, ensure that what you pay for at the show is what you will receive on your wedding day.

If you choose silks on your wedding day, ask your professional if the silk arrangements have been used at different events, if so, ask to see them during a mock-up (which should be put in your contract). Make sure in all vendor contracts it is specified what time the vendor should arrive. You do not want your deejay setting up during cocktail hour at your reception, nor do you want your designer placing floral items while your guests are watching.
A final statement: be weary of vendors who say they can do "everything". A full service professional must have others working for them to make the event successful. Do not depend on one person to caterer, design, customize invitations, coordinate your wedding, and sell your dress to you. Especially if that person has no partners and staff and works from home. If they do have staff and partners, ask to meet the person doing your invitations, ask them for actual samples of the invitations. Ask what type of paper weight they use and why. Ask them specifics because they could be outsourcing your invitations and up-charging you.

Finally, anything under $400 is probably not a good deal for day of coordinators unless they are new. I actually charged $0 when I first started to build my portfolio. Make sure that if someone is charging you less, that they put in their contract what they are offering. I have personally seen day of coordinators who haven't bothered to see if the bride has food or if the pictures that the bride wanted to take were taken. It is a day of coordinators job to put out fires. If you feel that you are shouldering the burden during the planning process, then you or your family will probably shoulder it during the wedding day.

Most wedding professionals have home based business as this PSA isn't meant to discourage you from meeting with them, I work from home as well. Remember we are in business to make your day the best day of your life. These suggestions will gladly be incorporated by a professional who cares about the bride and their own reputation.

Happy Planning!!

Extra Shine & Hairstyling Advice from Motions

2011-05-31T10:57:00.000-07:00

Click below for helpful tips, photographs and product suggestions!

Look Beautiful in Your Wedding Pictures

2011-04-20T10:45:00.000-07:00

Special to African-AmericanBrides.com by Sarah Logan of Aesthetic Science Institute

Wedding pictures hold some of the happiest memories of a lifetime, so be sure you consider all the angles when preparing to be photographed on the big day.
Exfoliate and moisturize- Don’t forget that the most important step is good skincare for a clean, smooth base. Soft, supple skin will be the best canvas for any makeup to look great on.
Don’t go changing- Brides shouldn’t try new skincare products, or anything that may irritate skin during the wedding countdown. Don’t be tempted to get cosmetic or skin treatments too close to the date, especially if you haven’t experienced the procedure before.
Build from a solid foundation- Be sure that your foundation is the right color and formulation for your skin. Color correcting concealers, like lilac for any sallow areas, and peach/yellow for under eye circles are a much better choice than simply layering on more makeup.
Define eyes and brows- While its important to line and define eyes so they pop in photos, keep in mind that dark shadow will make eyes recede and look smaller. For big bright eyes, highlight the inner corners and brow bone with light pink or pale gold shadow or crayon. Also, make sure brows are properly framing the face- everyone looks better and younger with defined brows. Fill the arches with powder or a solid pigment and brush.
Skip the glitter- Radiance-enhancing or shimmery foundations make faces look too slick and shiny for photos, so if you must, keep the sheen only on cheekbones and the cupid’s bow for highlighting purposes. Always finish the t-zone with powder, and and blot any oiliness as needed. The older you are, the more important it is to avoid shimmery eye makeup, as it tends to bring attention to fine lines.

More Help With Trimming Wedding Costs

2011-04-20T10:29:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of sources for managing your finances while planning the wedding you want. But we still really like the Wedding Survival Guide by CBS MoneyWatch. The feature "9 Tricks to Trim Wedding Costs" is especially full of good, solid advice. Hope this helps some ladies who, like a lot of us, are managing our champagne tastes on beerin style!

Diann Valentine

2011-03-04T10:30:00.000-08:00

Keep your eye on world-renowned wedding designer Diann Valentine. She's giving out great planning tips on her website and keeping the industry abreast of upcoming trends. But she is also launching her new line of wedding invitations and save-the-dates on WeddingPaperDivas.com. Take a look.

See more on from Diann on WeddingPaperDivas.comYou can also check out her coffee table book, Weddings Valentine Style: Rich Inspiration for Every Woman's Dream Day, on Amazon.

A Little Floral Inspiration

2011-02-01T09:52:00.000-08:00

Gina D's

Jennifer McGarigle/Floral Art

Nicole Martin Photography

Minoo Hersini for Au Ciel

Weekly Find: Pick-A-Shape Favor Tags

2011-01-11T09:29:00.001-08:00

Pick a Shape Favor Tags

We love these adorable tags from Eliza Fig. They allow you to personalize virtually any favor to match your wedding style. You can choose from 18 designs and 14 colors. The favor tags come with pre-punched holes and white elasticized strings. Sold in sets of 36.

Balloons

2010-11-17T13:05:00.000-08:00

Just about anything can be worked into wedding decor. But, surprisingly, many people in the last few years have built up strong feeling about (of all things!) balloons. Overseas brides-to-be still love them and About.com just had a nice article on decorating with balloons. But, we are just now starting to see more American weddings using balloons as part of the vintage/traditional revival.

Photo by Jonathan Ong

Courtesy of SumethingBlue

Courtesy of Essence Magazine

Courtesy of Roseville Balloons

Jubilation!

2010-11-17T13:02:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of 643 Photography

Greener Nuptials

2010-09-01T09:44:00.000-07:00

It was just a matter of time before eco-friendly wedding elements caught on. Now we're seeing lots of brides-to-be incorporating green accessories into their wedding plans. My Wedding Workbook reports that close to 30% of engaged couples now seek out environmentally-conscious goods and services for their weddings. There is also an increase in the number of conflict-free/blood-free/eco-friendly engagement rings being purchased. Here are few more ideas.

Bridal gown from Sanni Bridal

Earth-friendly Invitations on recycled paper from Wedding Paper Divas

Eco-Runners from Customized Wedding Creations

Blue Topaz Emerald Ring by One Garnet Girl

Personalized Jute Totes from American Bridal

Here are a few more very simple ideas from Eliza Fig

Eliza's Eco Friendly Wedding Tips
* Buy a used or vintage gown or one of 100% silk or cotton
* Serve an organic menu with locally grown produce and free-range meat
* Use organic, pesticide-free flowers in your bouquet
* Use plates and forks that are rewashed, not tossed
* Invite fewer guests to limit materials
* Give your wedding gifts as donations to favorite charities
* Choose recycled or 100% cotton paper for invitations to placecards. Or minimize the amount of virgin paper used and select papers that are processed chlorine-free

The Black & White Cake

2010-09-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

Remember when we told you about the surge in classic black-and-white weddings? Well, lots of pastry chefs are coming up with wedding cakes to fit the theme. Here is one truly lovely confection that we spied over at The Brides' Cafe.
Created by Christine Dahl Pastries.

Wedding Day Makeup: Tips & Trends

2010-08-06T11:57:00.000-07:00

- by Tia Dantzler
Celebrity Makeup Artist

Here are some tips for achieving a picture perfect look for your "special" day:
* Always make sure your makeup look is classic so when you look at your pictures 10 years from now...you look timeless!
* Seek out a professional makeup artist at least six months in advance to lock them in.
* Tear out your favorite makeup looks from magazines for ideas.
* Request your Makeup Artist use water-proof products on your face to ensure a flawless, long-lasting look.
* Always request a trial run-through so you can approve of the overall look your Artist has created.
* Facials, microdermabrasion and other facials should be done at one month before your big day to ensure your beautiful skin has been restored.
* Drink lots of H2O leading up to your big day.
* Wear a set of beautiful faux eyelashes to give your eyes a pop!

Don't forget your touch-up kit that you assign to a VIP to carry around....just in case you need to add some color to your lips or you need to freshen up with a blot powder, or mints.
Remember this day is ALL ABOUT YOU so be confident and put on your BEST FACE!

Tia Dantzler is known worldwide for her work. Her clients include President Barack Obama, Maxwell, Jennifer Hudson, Magic Johnson, and Keke Palmer - to name a few! See more on her personal website.

Elda De La Rosa Gowns 2010

2010-08-06T11:56:00.001-07:00

We love these new dresses from designer Elda De La Rosa for brides and bridesmaids.

Dessert Divas & Classy Confections

2010-06-23T12:19:00.001-07:00

Brides-to-be are always searching for new ways of doing old wedding traditions. Those who want to offer their guests something other than the usual wedding cake can take some inspiration from Southern Girl Desserts.

Two native Floridians, Catarah Hampshire and Shoneji Robison, started Southern Girl Desserts in Los Angeles almost three years ago, but they're already serving up scrumptious delights for the who's who of L.A. What sets them apart? They replace everyday reception desserts with southern favorites - such as red velvet cake, pineapple obsession, banana pudding and their signature sweet potato pie cupcakes - and make them elegant enough for a wedding.
Hampshire and Robison found themselves in the national spotlight last year after their red velvet cupcakes were served at the wedding of Essence Atkins and soon they will be shipping their creations nationwide.

New Orleans Second Line Reception

2010-05-25T08:08:00.001-07:00

Courtesy of Zoeica Images

Keeping Love Alive

2010-05-19T10:20:00.000-07:00

- by Erica

Kathleen and Ollie Johnson are the power couple behind Dr. Miracles hair care products. I recently had the chance to talk to them about how they’ve managed their business and marriage partnerships so well while also homeschooling their three children. Rather than parse out their words, I'm giving you the entire interview. A very interesting and funny couple!

Me: Do you find that working together so closely enhances or challenges a marriage?
Kathleen: For us, it’s an enhancement because we have a mutual interest outside of the marital norms. It is hard for men and women to find things to share that they can both be passionate about. This is something that means a lot to both of us.

Ollie: Working together has given us an unusual opportunity to share in the Dr.
Miracle’s journey. Since we are not performing the same job functions, we bring unique perspectives to working together.

Me: How do you handle disagreements?
Kathleen: Yelling, violence and generally being irrational. Ha, Ha, Ha...just kidding.

Ollie: We talk out our positions when there are disagreements. Usually there is room for compromise.

Kathleen: After 26 years of marriage we know we have different views and have learned to listen to each other and take time to consider the other's point of view. I respect Ollie's viewpoint based upon his years of hands-on experience while I may bring a "looking at the forest outside of the trees” view. Each view has value to us.

Me: Is it difficult to create "alone time"?
Ollie: We manage “alone time” when we feel we need it. Sometimes taking a trip to the country is a good remedy.

Kathleen: Since our children are grown-up, we are enjoying the freedom that comes with not having to be regulated by meals and bedtimes. It's great being able to travel together more and be spontaneous.

Me: Do you feel the media does enough to show the reality of black love and black families?
Kathleen: I feel that the media does “very little” in the way of positive affirmation of the Black family or Black love. The positive aspects of the Black family are rarely highlighted and not enough media attention is spent on those couples who represent positive family values.

Ollie: Television doesn't do much to show the reality of most things. It just doesn't sell advertising. What people want is drama. To see a family at peace with one another and living normally is not exciting, but it is a blessing.

May Wedding Finds on Etsy

2010-05-18T12:35:00.000-07:00

Tophandmadejewelry - Freshwater pearls and only $5.95!

Beads in the Belfry We love cufflinks as a gift for a groom.

Tissage Pure glam.

SarahBethDesigns Adorable earrings for bride or maid-of-honor.

Bridal Mystique: Denise Pritchett

2010-04-07T10:49:00.000-07:00

These lovely pictures are courtesy of Denise Pritchett of Denise Pritchett Phototgrahy (based in Based in Bryn Mawr,PA).

Fantasy & Fairytale: Alive and Well

2010-03-10T14:30:00.000-08:00

We recently got an email from a loyal reader who asked why we didn't choose more fairytale and fantasy wedding gowns for our "Wedding Dress of the Day" series. Even though we make an effort to be practical, we do NOT want to neglect the whimsical options out there for our brides who like to think outside-of-the-box. Lucky for those ultra-creative ladies, we were already on the case.

We love the look of these fabulous flights-of-fancy by Cassandra Bromfield:

Take a look at this fairytale princess silk wedding gown from Azrael's Accomplice.

Here's is another bead and lace creation by Erica Angeline

Wordless On Wax

2010-03-02T12:26:00.001-08:00

Another fantastic engagement shoot from our good friend Carlton D. Mackey at Vision Photography in Atlanta, GA. He rocks.

Keeping Your Wedding Costs Down

2010-03-01T08:01:00.000-08:00

- by Lisa

Congratulations to all of our new readers who got engaged on Valentine's Day! We hope you enjoy this special time in your life. Planning the kind of wedding you want can be so much FUN, but it can also be quite a challenge in today's economy. Here are some suggestions for cutting your wedding costs:

1. Trim the guest list - if possible. Sometimes it's not possible due to family situations etc. This is the number 1 way of cutting costs.

2. Consider a freelance photographer – A great “freelance” photographer might fit the bill. Often, the wedding is looked through a fresh and creative lens. Expensive back-end costs are often reduced. Warning – if a professional album is your goal, this might not be a viable option for you. Tip - one might even reduce their cost, for a chance at getting a great wedding in their portfolio!

3. Buy a custom-made dress as opposed to a gown from a bridal salon. I had a bride who loved a $3,500.00 dress. We got a dress made out of "real" silk satin, a cathedral veil which was lined in the same fabric, and a bolero jacket - all for $2,000.00. If that’s not cost savings, I don't know what is.

4. Trunk shows and sample sales are great!

5. Opting for a smaller "show" cake and offering sheet cakes in the back.

6. Cutting the alcohol out of your bar (they will survive one night, I promise). Nobody is saying that you have to offer, but if you offer it - in my opinion, you should pay for it.

7. Choosing a venue that has table, chairs, glassware, silver, etc. Covering the chairs is not as expensive as renting ones (if you find an economic rental solution. Don’t rent the covers through the venue).

8. Choosing a venue you are happy with, decor wise - choosing a venue that you do not like because it’s inexpensive, and then paying twice the rental fee in decor - is not a good plan.

9. Cutting out favors, or combining favors and place cards into one offering.

10. Make every aspect of your wedding matter. Follow this rule of thumb, “don’t just do it because you think you “need’ to do it. Do it because it has a significance to you, your fiancé, your families (collectively) and your guests”. Make the significance known to everyone.

11. Downsize your wedding party (or have no wedding party at all).

12. Have your ceremony and reception in one place - no need to transport yourselves or your guests.

13. Rent instead of buy. Check prices. You will only use this stuff once, and renting will eliminate the need to sell afterwards.

14. Get married during the “off” season. Many vendors would love to work early December, January and February - when things are typically quiet. They might even offer you a terrific deal if you give them your wedding!

15. Create a realistic budget and prioritize. Be honest to yourself and your vendors about how much you can and/or want to spend on your big day.

16. Hire a planner who has a strong network of vendors that they always use. This will save you time and money.

I hope this list will offer you realistic ideas on not only helping you cut costs, but also on maintaining the spirit of your day!

Happy planning!

Wedding Gowns of the Day: Mika Inatome

2010-02-26T13:51:00.000-08:00

Enjoy these two stunning lace and silk creations by Mika Inatome Bridal.

Splendor on the Shore

2010-02-17T15:04:00.000-08:00

- by Lisa
I have recently been blessed with lots of firsts. This was my very first beach wedding – and it was fabulous! What a beautiful site on the Eastern Shore - light filled, airy, spacious and beautiful – the most perfect setting for a most perfect wedding! This sophisticated bride wore the most perfect gown for a beach wedding – it was a nice, light and simple - ivory in color. She finished off her look with a simple yet sophisticated cage veil.

Celebrating her Caribbean heritage she walked down the aisle to the sound of steel drums. She looked absolutely stunning as she exchanged vows overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. The ceremony was short but meaningful - the highlight being the Sand ceremony – which not only represented two souls being joined as one, but the coming together of two families.

While the newly married couple took pictures on the beach, their guests enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres, and the sounds of steel drums, as they watched the sun reflect from the water’s edge.

As their 150 guests moved from the cocktail hour which was draped in pink, to the light filled reception which was draped in crisp ivory, they were treated to a robust meal and live music.

The festive evening moved quickly (as it always does) and before we knew it, it was time to say goodbye. As they did at each moment of their wedding day, the couple said their goodbyes in grand style – waving from a yacht which brought them to their wedding night hotel.

Photography by ImaginePhotographyOnline.com

Preston Bailey Invitations

2010-01-26T14:33:00.000-08:00

One of the country's premier event designers is now a top-notch invitation designer as well. Preston Bailey recently launched his first invitation collection exclusively at InvitationConsultants.com. . Much like his wedding decor, the invitations are bursting with flowers, joy and color.

The invitations range between $2 and $4 each. Get more information by visiting InvitationConsultants.com. . So what do you think, so far? Tell us now by clicking on "comments".

Wordless Wednesday: Dazzling Destination

2010-01-20T10:22:00.000-08:00

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Courtesy of Vision Photography

A Family: Shani & Laki

2010-01-05T13:10:00.000-08:00

Brooklyn, New York
Courtesy of Becky Holladay Photography

CC.Elaine Wedding Gowns

2009-12-07T12:08:00.001-08:00

We recently had a chat with designer CC.Elaine about her new line of bridal gowns designed specifically for women with curves. The collection is called Femme Luxe and includes sizes 12-32. In addition to being made with sumptuous fabrics and details, each gown also has a corset-style body shaper built right into the foundation. The entire collection will be available just after the new year. But take a look sneak peak at what's in store from this Chicago-based designer.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T06:25:00.001-08:00

Thanks so much for sitting at our table....

Bridesmaids: The Ava Gardner Dress

2009-11-19T12:56:00.000-08:00

Today's bridesmaid dress is called the Ava Gardner Dress. It is made of silk shantung and duppioni by Siri

Wedding Gown of the Week: Priscilla Costa

2009-11-17T15:03:00.000-08:00

This dress is called "Bella Fuxico". It is handmade with silk taffeta, organza, and swarovski crystals by Priscilla Costa of Brazil.

Cupcakes on Parade

2009-11-02T10:44:00.000-08:00

Cupcakes have really taken off as reception fare. When we first posted about them last year, some brides-to-be and their families were iffy on having cupcakes in place of the traditional wedding cake. But now they're popping up everywhere - and guests seem to love them. Just one more option for the ultra-creative ladies out there who feel the need to shake things up.

Kylie Lambert of Le Cupcake

Stuffed Cupcakes of Nutley, NJ

Sugar Craft by Rosie

How about cake on the top, cupcakes on the bottom? Courtesy of Alana Hodgson.

ABC Cake Shop and Bakery

Worst Wedding Songs. Ever.

2009-10-20T11:46:00.000-07:00

- by Erica

I personally love the song "Spend a Lifetime" by Jamiroquai and even considered adding it to my playlist back when I was planning my nuptials. But take a quick listen to the lyrics and what you'll hear is not a wedding song, but a tune about unrequited love. Lots of songs are like that. The title and the melody are saying one thing, while the lyrics are saying something else. (Boyz II Men's "On Bended Knee" or Jagged Edge's "Let's Get Married", anyone?)

We've talked before about the best wedding songs and even the most popular wedding songs. But, believe it or not, there are wedding songs that are SO WRONG for tying the knot that bands and deejays are blown away by how often they're suggested. The list of these songs is now so solid that many brides-to-be are using the songs to create a "do NOT playlist".

Now when we say a song is one of the worst, there are always exceptions. For example, maybe a couple had a rocky road to the alter and... well. Nah, we still can't see it. Find out more by checking out the songs found HERE, HERE and HERE.

Strapless-ness 101

2009-10-11T16:58:00.000-07:00

Do you doubt that you can wear a strapless dress with confidence? Take it from us, you'll never know until you try one on. There is no other way to find out for sure. Lots of brides-to-be are stunned to see how lovely they look in a strapless gown.

Read More

New Wedding Reception Trends

2009-09-28T09:51:00.000-07:00

-by Minoo

With the recession being part of our lives today, most brides and grooms are quieter in the way they project and plan their weddings. However, it doesn’t mean that your wedding can’t be “au courant”. Here are some tips on how to be “in” for your 2010 weddings:

• Find unique venues such as barns, art galleries, studios and homes instead of large, expensive ballrooms.
• Chose communal tables (long table seating) verses individual 8x10 tables.
• Use candles to substitute pin lighting.
• Stick to some classics. Utilize a clean, floor length and high quality cotton tablecloth.
• Use elongated mirror runners and different textures to create a mood.
• Incorporate natural elements for table decorations such as leaves, bark, branches, grass and moss intermixed with flowers

Read More

Vendor Spotlight: Lucky Paperie

2009-09-22T13:33:00.000-07:00

If you could create your dream wedding stationery, what would it look like? Melanie Carter gets to answer that question everyday as the owner of Lucky Paperie. For her boutique she chooses modern, hand-crafted letterpress designs for keepsakes like invitations, placecards, menus, and ceremony programs. Those creations can then be customized with a variety of materials such as satin ribbon, monograms, and sparkles.

Even though the Georgia-based boutique is making a splash in the wedding industry, Lucky Paperie actually offers paper goods for all occasions. See more online.

Wedding Gown of the Day

2009-09-22T09:07:00.000-07:00

Wedding Day Memories on Film

2009-09-16T14:34:00.000-07:00

- Lisa
You will find that your photographer and your videographer are two very important members of your wedding team. They will capture the images that serve as your memories. It’s very important that you are comfortable with both of these vendors - as being uncomfortable does show in the final product. When interviewing potential vendors, make sure that you like not only their style, but that they work well with you and with others - making the day successful for all involved.

Read More

Photo Inspiration: Kiss Me!

2009-09-08T14:36:00.001-07:00

courtesy of Morningstar Photography

Fall Wedding Table

2009-08-28T13:45:00.001-07:00

Fall wedding table inspiration from Minoo Hersini at Au Ciel Design Studio

Wedding Shoe Inspiration

2009-08-28T13:42:00.001-07:00

Our bridal shoe inspiration of the day comes from designer Badgley Mischka.

Couture Pump with Tulle
$215 at PerfectDetails.com
Notice we said, "inspiration." *wink*

Priscilla of Boston

2009-08-28T13:34:00.001-07:00

When Houston Rockets basketball player Brian Cook tied the knot earlier this month, his bride Victoria Velasquez (left) caused a sensation in a stunning gown from Priscilla of Boston’s Platinum Collection.

But lots of non-famous brides-to-be are also discovering gowns from Priscilla of Boston thanks to the lush fabrics, beautiful beadwork and attention to detail.

The newest Priscilla of Boston bridal gowns come with glam modern details like “crumb catchers” and empire waists, but also with vintage touches.

Each gown is custom made and sizes go up to 24. The standard order time for gowns is around 16-18 weeks. See more gowns and read about real bride La’Keidra O. Hardeman on the Priscilla of Boston website.

Monisha & Calvin

2009-08-28T13:32:00.001-07:00

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Courtesy of Michael Clark Photography

Amy Kuschel: Butterfly

2009-08-28T13:30:00.000-07:00

Amy Kuschel
"Butterfly"

This dress is from Amy Kuschel's beach destination line. But we think it's gorgeous enough to wear anywhere! It's made of french chantilly lace with a bateau neckline and an open back, and finished with a trumpet/flutter skirt. The hidden beauty of this dress? It actually converts to a mini-dress for your post-ceremony transformation. Go, butterfly!

Cocktails: The Divitini

2009-08-28T13:26:00.000-07:00

Did you think bartenders had run out of -"tini's"? If so, you would be wrong. We haven't personally tried this week's chocolate-laden concoction (we WILL this weekend), but those who have say it's simple divine. Maybe that's why it's called the Divinitini.

We're told it was created by the barman at the Sanderson Hotel in London's West End. The recipe we like best is below and was taken from CocktailAtlas.com:

For Each Cocktail:

4 squares of chocolate, melted
1 fl oz orange vodka
1 fl oz vodka
A dash of Grand Marnier
A dash of Creme de Cocoa
1 slice orange
Garnish with a purple pansy

Put the melted chocolate, orange vodka, pure vodka, Grand Marnier, Crème de Cocoa into a cocktail shaker. Crush the orange slice and add. Shake well and then pour into a chilled glass, decorated with a pansy on the side, and sip.
If you can't find a purple pansy, don't worry about it. ;)

Handmade Bridal Shoes: DiKusa

2009-08-28T13:17:00.000-07:00

Why are handmade goods so popular for weddings right now? Part of the reason is that they allow a lot of room for customization and personalization. But they also impart a quality that makes them suitable for heirlooms and "handing down". We were intrigued recently when we heard about companies focusing on handmade bridal shoes. One of them is DiKusa, which features intricate designs using hand-beading, embroidery, Swarovski crystals, and rhinestones.

See more at DiKusa's website by clicking below.

Nedjetti: Natural Hairstyles for Brides

2009-08-28T13:11:00.000-07:00

Black women are blessed to be able to enjoy a wide range of hairstyles, whether relaxed or natural. We're often contacted by natural brides-to-be who want to thank us for the styles we include on our hair blog, because they've had a hard time finding what they're looking for. The good news is that right now lots of natural stylists, loc-ticians, and braiders are putting out the word that they are creating formal styles for women who are tying the knot. One of them is Nedjetti (seen in the upper-left photo), a stylist in the New Jersey/New York area. Several of her hairstyles are below, and we'll be featuring many more on African American Wedding Hairstyles along with all of the other natural, relaxed, texturized and braided styles we continue to spotlight.

Hair by Nedjetti Salon
Bloomfield, NJ & NYC
973.748.0181