Fall Color Crush: Copper

Amidst the poignant beauty and vibrant hues of autumn, this season’s most popular wedding colors stand out with stunning allure: earthy reds such as marsala and auburn; fresh greens including sage, fern, and mint; and autumnal favorites like cocoa and pumpkin!

Does this sound delicious, or what?

This week, we’re crushing on warm and cheerful hues such as gold, bronze, copper, and champagne! Check out these five ways to add a splash of sensational color to your wedding. 

Glorious Headpieces

If you’re decking your bridesmaids in a seasonal color such as champagne, chocolate, amethyst, or maroon, a sparkling gold accent perfectly complements these rich hues. Wear a gold bridal headpiece and give your maids matching hair pins, or vice-versa!

Confident Jewelry

Be bold in gold! Try wearing a statement bracelet or earrings in a warm metallic tone; you can match a headpiece or belt and show off red-carpet worthy style in your bridal photos.

Statement Shoes

Dare to dream with sparkling shoes or a gold clutch. A dramatic pop of color adds some pizazz to your ensemble while still looking fashion-forward and utterly fabulous. These details create fun photo opportunities, too!

Beautiful Bridesmaids

Metallics are all the rage this season. There’s nothing more gorgeous and eye-catching than decking your maids in stunning gold sequins or Art Deco beading! Never underestimate the power of sparkle.

Autumn Bouquet

Incorporate the warm hues of fall into your bouquet by choosing brightly-colored flowers and leaves, or wrap the end in a metallic ribbon to add an extra bit of shimmer. You can tie in your accent color with a jewel-tone brooch, too!

Photography Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography 

Gown: Sweet Caroline Styles

5 Signs You’re Ready to Get Married

You are financially independent.

It’s a fact that couples with solid finances are happier. People who are ready to take the next step and start a household should be ready to finance a wedding; save for a house; and plan for retirement (not to mention the cost of future kids). You can handle regular bills, manage debt, and save money. You keep your economic stress down and maintain a reasonably steady budget.

You plan for the future

As in, you have a five-year plan and maybe a 10 year plan. Definitely career goals—at least some sort of direction in your life. Because if you don’t know where you’re going, how can you take someone else with you? You have developed your personal desires and have a clear sense of identity. You and your partner have discussed what you both want from life and are prepared to move forward.

You know what love is

Infatuation and intimacy are different. You’ve interacted with people enough to know when a relationship is special and will last, and when it won’t. The two of you share common interests and enjoy talking—even about touchy issues like religion or politics. You’ve confessed your secrets and ambitions. Genuine love is powerfully good. The One connects with you on a deep level and is worthy of your trust.

You keep promises

You are familiar with sticking to your commitments: showing up to work on time, volunteering regularly, and staying true to your word. Marriage calls for dedication. If you’re ready to tie the knot, you already desire to serve your partner with love, patience, and kindness—even when it’s tough. Unselfishness is essential to a healthy marriage and must be strong on both sides.

“You” includes your partner

When making plans, you include your partner in just about everything—because the two of you are a package deal. You enjoy personal time and like to hang out with friends/family, but also realize that marriage is being together. Sitting together, traveling together, cooking dinners together, sleeping together. That’s the whole point, isn’t it?

Any couple who is ready to go the distance (and make it) is part of something greater than just themselves. Both of you already think in terms of “us” and “we” instead of “I” and “me.”

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Obviously, there are many more ways to know if you’re ready. How did you know he or she was the One? Share your story!

Style Spotlight: Gold Lace Cathedral Veil

Gold is naturally glamorous. The warm luster and elegant shine of this gorgeous hue is perfect for a wedding in any season. Bold, beautiful brides who step outside the all-white or all-ivory box already know that metallics add an eye-catching splash of decadence to any ensemble. Gold, in particular, conveys a soft and romantic quality that is so dreamy while retaining that feeling of high-class elegance.

This veil is for you.

Style V7287C combines the gorgeous glamour of gold with a breathtaking floral lace design. Dimensional flowers and shimmering beadwork in opulent embroidery make this veil truly unique—just like you! The traditional style of a flowing cathedral veil is the most majestic, romantic design a bride can choose.

You’ll feel absolutely stunning in this extravagant accessory—if such a statement piece can really be called a mere accessory. Be prepared for lots of compliments!

This design coordinates beautifully with gold jewelry and headpieces, as well as dresses with warm florals and/or lace appliqués. Champagne tones look downright incredible with this luxurious veil.

Style V7287C is made for a formal wedding. If you like the gold lace but want a design that’s not quite so over-the-top, check out style V7277 (the fingertip length version) or a soft gold Chantilly lace veil like V7270. You’ll love the grace and charm of these fabulous gold styles.

Are you wearing a gold lace gown? Tell us which designer you chose!

(Psst. We have more cathedral veils and romantic styles for you, too. If you want more bridal style inspiration, follow us on Instagram!)

Top 5 Signs You’re a Halloween Bride

Do you love Halloween so much that you’d marry it—or rather, tie the knot during this spooky season? Smashingly stylish attire, ghoulish décor, and out-of-this-world wedding ideas just might tempt you into choosing October 31 as the day you lay your single life to rest! Check out these top five signs that you might be a Halloween bride.

Your Wedding Color: Black

Are you a bit obsessed with all things gothic? The first thing you did after slipping on that ring was to choose black as your color. Other people might think it is a bit gloomy for a wedding, but you know that black is slimming, goes with everything, and looks oh-so-chic with the right accessories. (Are your nails painted black right now?)

Your Ring: Unique

Are you not a sparkly round-cut type of girl? If your beau proposed with a vintage ring, colored stone, or a rock that wasn’t a diamond at all, this is a good indication that your preferences stray from the beaten path. As Robert Frost says, “Two roads diverged in a yellow wood… I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.”

Fall Foodie

Do you look forward to the Pumpkin Spiced Latte season all year? Do you avidly watch the calendar and celebrate when the local pumpkin patch opens up? Have you already updated your Pumpkin Recipes Board on Pinterest? Would you serve pumpkin pies, hot chocolate, caramel apples, or other autumnal goodies at your wedding?

Is your stomach growling just reading this? Enough said.

You Reuse & Recycle 

If you are a creative person who is into crafting and repurposing items, you’ve already got your mind on sourcing re-usable wedding décor.

Little black dresses for the bridesmaids will be perfect for date nights. Wedding goblets with skulls—why, you’ll use them every October! The idea of pulling out lovely black table linens for spooky parties sounds pretty good, doesn’t it?

You’re a Kid at Heart

Nothing warms your heart like watching the Trick or Treaters every year. You loved pounding the pavement on All Hallows’ Eve when you were a kid, and you’ve never quite grown out of your fondness for huge bags of candy and elaborate costumes ever since.

You love the idea of letting your flower girls and ring bearers dress in costume—and maybe throw candy down the aisle! The kids will have a blast, and you are definitely the type of person who believes that weddings should be fun.

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Tell us, are you a Halloween bride? Let us know why you chose this holiday season to tie the knot!

‘Till Death Do Us Part—Halloween Proposal Ideas

Planning a spooky Halloween proposal? Pop the big question with a seasonal twist using one of these fantastic ideas. Whether your beloved covets a glittering black diamond, a gothic skull ring, or a traditional sparkly setting, these proposals will definitely get a “Yes!”—if she’s not too afraid!

 Corn Maze Hunt  

Does she love playing games and solving puzzles? Take your star sleuth into a corn maze for the best treasure hunt ever! Give her clues to guide her through to the end, where you can drop a knee and/or ask actors in the maze to hold up signs.

Haunted House Surprise

Give your future fiancée a scary surprise by popping the question inside a haunted house! If you’re a thrill-seeker with a spine of steel who would brave monsters, zombies, and psychos to stop and declare your love, this is a daring way to go. Just make sure she’s not too freaked out to say, “Yes!”

Pumpkin Patch Romance  

Does she love seasonal, family-friendly activities? For a good old-fashioned fall proposal, take one knee in a pumpkin patch! You can plant the ring on a special pumpkin ahead of time, or ask friends and family to write your message on pumpkins and meet you there.

Black Cat Delivery 

For animal lovers, there’s nothing more adorable than a furry new family member bearing a sparkly present! You can also engrave their collar or tag with the question, which makes a great keepsake. For a Halloween twist, adopt a black kitty—and start your engagement with nine lives’ worth of good luck!

Candy Dish Delight

If your sweetie loves treats, why not deliver your question by offering her a dish of candy with an extra-special present sitting on top? This simple proposal is both classic and fun. You can also drop the ring into a glass of cider, or replace the plastic spider ring on a Halloween cupcake with a major upgrade.

Jack O’Lantern Message 

Nothing is more romantic than asking for her hand in marriage by flickering candlelight—preferably with scattered rose petals. Carve pumpkins to ask, “Will You Marry Me?” and drop in some candles. After it gets dark, lead your lovely lady to the magical location!

Trick or Marriage

Do either you or your beloved have kids? Let them be part of the proposal by asking them to hold up signs. When she opens the door expecting Trick or Treaters, she’ll be thrilled by your heartfelt surprise!

How are you going to propose? Share your story!

Fabulous Fall Florals

Think amazing bouquets are just for spring and summer weddings? Check out our ideas for amazing fall florals! Get ideas for ways to personalize your bouquet, and be sure to visit our Pinterest bouquet boards for unforgettable arrangements.

Personal & Pretty

Sprays of eclectic flowers that symbolize your feelings are a fun way to incorporate your personality into your bridal bouquet. As an added bonus, selecting wildflowers, locally grown plants, and seasonal touches like autumn leaves or wheat will lower your costs. Get creative with your florist and come up with a design you’ll love!

You Might Like My Bridal Style: Trendy

Upscale Sparkle

Why stop the sparkle? Add fancy bits of bling to your bouquet for a luxurious touch of glamour in your photos. Bouquet letters, pearl or rhinestone pins, or a bejeweled wrap for the bottom will make your walk down the aisle truly shine.

You Might Like My Bridal Style: Glamorous

Timeless Beauty

If you’re seeking a look of true elegance, nothing beats a classic bouquet of roses or peonies. These lush blooms have long been favored for weddings due to their sheer beauty and romance. Looking to cut costs? Use baby’s breath for a sweet touch of simplicity. Wrap the bottom of your bouquet in ribbon to match your gown, or try adding a bit of something blue!

You Might Like My Bridal Style: Classic

Vintage Vibe

Incorporate period-inspired details into your bouquet to carry through a vintage theme! You can hang a family heirloom or locket from the base, or wrap the bottom in antique lace. If you’re feeling daring and want your bouquet to last forever, you can even skip the flowers and create your entire bouquet from antique brooches!

You Might Like My Bridal Style: Vintage

Sweet Romance

A trailing array of leafy florals or a lush heart of peonies looks truly amazing. Pink, cream, and white are all lovely hues for an understated theme of sweet romance—no matter what season you’re getting married. If you want to convey pure passion, a bunch of red roses is a beautiful choice, too, and looks great with other autumnal colors!

You Might Like My Bridal Style: Romantic

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Tell us, which style is your favorite?

Lovely Love Quotes

Five Reasons to Wear a Bridal Belt

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style BT030)

We love the versatility and beauty of bridal belts. Available in a variety of shapes and colors with gorgeously constructed beading and sparkling rhinestones, a bridal belt adds unique beauty to your wedding day ensemble. Here are our top five reasons you should wear one.

MAKE IT YOUR OWN

Okay, so you scouted Pinterest, Google images, your favorite bridal magazines, and a plethora of blogs for the perfect gown… but you do realize that hundreds of other brides will be wearing the exact same one? Make your wedding feel extra special and give the dress your own personality by adding a belt. This transforms your bridal look with a new style that is completely your own.

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6441)

WAIST DEFINITION 

Some gowns are almost perfect… but could use a little bit of help. Maybe the dress feels snug in one spot, but needs to be taken in or let out in other places—which makes sense, as no two brides will be exactly the same fit! One way to make a gown flatter your silhouette is by wearing a belt, which adds a point of reference for the eye and gives your waist slimming definition.

SPARKLE, SPARKLE, SPARKLE 

If you have a simple gown or find yourself getting lost in lace, a bit of sparkle can help! Many belts feature intricate beading or pretty shimmer that helps to glam up your look. Belts can also beautifully complement the details on your dress or match a lovely headpiece.

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style BT030)

BOW BACK

A dramatic sash can add a pop of color to your entire ensemble. A romantic bow back dresses up your pics with even more bridal beauty. This look is feminine, retro, and totally chic.

BALANCE IS BEAUTIFUL

If you’re wearing a dramatic veil, headpiece, or shoes, consider adding a belt to complete your wedding wardrobe. A pretty belt draws the eye and will help tie together your other accessories for a coordinated, balanced look.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-BT059

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style BT059)

Check out our Belts page to see all the looks available. Visit our Store Locator page to find them in a bridal salon near you!

4 Ways to Style Your Destination Beach Wedding

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – 6571)

Are you planning a destination wedding, or saying “I do” amidst a breathtaking backdrop of ocean, sand, and sky? We can’t help but admire all you dreamy, free-spirted beach brides—and we’ve got some killer styling suggestions for you!

TUMBLING WAVES & SUBTLE BLING

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – 6505)

This style is so carefree and easy to achieve: style loose waves and use a gentle spray or mousse to keep those breezy locks looking great all day. Top off this simple yet stunning hairstyle with a glittering halo like 6500, 6502, or 6505. The result: absolute boho-chic beauty.

HAIR-TAMING HEADBAND

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – 6531)

If you’ve ever been to a beach (we’re guessing you have—and maybe even were proposed to at one), you know that there’s no such thing as a calm day. Keep the wind from messing up your ‘do with a gorgeous bridal headband. From pearl-packed glittering metallic designs (6531) to sparkling rhinestone tie headbands (6562), these styles are sure to keep you looking lovely all day. The bonus: add a veil and get some amazing shots of it blowing in that refreshing coastal breeze.

DELICATE FLORALS

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – 6569)

If you’re a classy bride and want a hairstyle with serious staying power, curl up your tresses in a loose chignon and tuck in a pretty flower clip. Delicate metallic flowers, soft organza petals, and glittering details like rhinestones and pearls tie your love of the sea into an elegant bridal style. (6569 and 6535)

THE WHOLE PACKAGE

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – 6570)

You want it all: glamour, romance, beauty. Mix and match styles that speak to your heart! Pick a dramatic bridal headpiece with a gorgeous, eye-catching design (6570) to wear at the ceremony and reception. Pair a traditional cathedral veil with a blusher for some seriously amazing photos (yes, you can wear this at the beach). Whether you go for trendy lace appliqués or a simple edge, a long veil adds instant drama.

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – V7263C)

How will you style your beach wedding?