Insider Tips: How Bridal Salons Care for Your Wedding Veil

handsome-young-groom-lifting-his-pretty-new-wife-000032877848_medium

Avoid Plastic

Plastic and sunlight can discolor tulle or beading over a long period of time. It’s best to store your veil in a non-plastic garment bag in a closet. Bridal salons hang veils from clips or hoops on a rolling rack. You can imitate this method by clipping your veil onto a hanger. If it is long, double up the tulle so it does not drag on the floor.

Keep It Safe

We recommend storing your wedding ensemble in a dry, safe location. Hang up your gown and veil, and keep your other accessories in a pocket of the garment bag or in a special box—away from children and pets. If you’re headed to a destination wedding, carry on as much as possible. Staying organized will prevent loss or damage to your items.

Mind Your Train

Many brides bring their veil and accessories to a hair trial appointment. This is ok, so long as you’re SUPER careful—all it takes it one person to accidentally step on the edge and you’ve got a hole! Tulle is very delicate and tears cannot be fixed. Keep an eagle eye open and make sure that your veil does not catch or snag on anything.

No Food or Liquids

Unless you’re wearing black on your wedding day, any spill will show up. The safest policy is to not eat or drink anything when trying on your gown and veil. (In fact, some bridal salons do not allow food or beverages for this reason.) Make sure your nail polish is 100% dry and ask your MOH to carry stain remover, just in case!

Avoid Irons

Please do not iron your veil. Just. Don’t. The heat from the iron can melt or discolor the delicate tulle fabric and then the beautiful veil will be ruined. As with your wedding gown, this special accessory should be professionally steamed at a bridal salon. Alternately, you can hang it up for a few days to let the folds/wrinkles fall out.

***

Little-kisses-000048402006_Medium.jpg

Do you have other veil storage and care tips? Share with us!

Lucky In Love: Gorgeous Gold Accessories

Have you struck gold in your relationship?

Metallics are a beautiful addition to your wedding aesthetic, adding glamorous sparkle or an edgy splash of color. The past couple years, we’ve seen copper, rose gold, silver, and yellow gold details featuring in weddings all over the country!

Today, we’re highlighting our metallic designs available in gold! This warm, luxurious hue enriches any outfit with princess-worthy style. Check out these gorgeous gilded headpieces for an enchanting wedding day look.

Gilded Leaves Clip

2017-web-image-file_6721-1

6721

Grace your ensemble with a pretty clip of shimmering metallic leaves and tiny rhinestone flowers. This easy-to-wear design may be clipped on the side or into the back of your hair. Add a veil for a more formal outfit, or let this design take center stage for a feeling of rustic charm.

This style is also available in silver.

Enchanted Flowers Garland

2017-web-image-file_6744

6744

Lustrous metallic flowers on a flexible garland create a shimmering, nature-inspired accessory. This pretty design adds floral beauty in an everlasting hair vine that will not fade, wither, or wilt. Style this boho-luxe accent piece with a veil for an ethereal look, or wear it with complementary jewelry.

This style is also available in silver.

In Full Bloom Adornment

2017-web-image-file_6727-2

6727

Some accessories are just made for romance. Tuck a gilded bouquet into your hair with this gorgeous, glittering floral headpiece. Stunning metallic flowers and clear crystals sprays attached to two combs beautifully enhance your chignon or updo. Wear it above or below a veil for swoonworthy style.

This design is also available in silver.

Budding Love Garland

2017-web-image-file_6750-3

6750

Enrich your hairstyle with a gorgeous array of delicate gold mesh leaves, porcelain flowers, and crystal sprays. Shimmering with dainty sparkle, this beautiful tie headband perfectly complements a bohemian or rustic theme with natural grace. Add a veil and drop earrings for an utterly romantic outfit.

This design is also available in silver.

Golden Ripples Comb

2017-web-image-file_6705

6705

Add artistic flair to your ensemble with this lovely little comb. Gilded waves in a lace-like pattern beautifully enhance your tresses with unique sparkle. Perfect for a garden party or a formal wedding, this accent piece may be paired with rhinestone or gold jewelry for a complete look.

This design is also available in silver.

Treasured Dream Headband

2017-Web-Image-File_6706-5.jpg

6706

Top off your wedding day look with a gilded metallic filigree headband. Encrusted with sparkling rhinestones and glass pearls, this glamorous swirling headband secures in the back. Match it with a pearl-strewn or beaded edge veil to add even more sparkle to your look.

This design is also available in rose gold or silver.

Graceful Weaving Headband

2017-Web-Image-File_6730-5.jpg

6730

Transform your outfit with natural, bohemian grace. A delicate, weaving garland featuring tiny flowers and miniature glass pearls adorns your hairstyle with free-spirited charm. This flexible, wired design ties in the back and may be worn as a headband or belt to customize your look.

This design is also available in silver.

Reigning Love Crown

2017-Web-Image-File_6702-6.jpg

6702

Celebrate your love story with a gorgeous bridal tiara. Not for the faint of heart, this dramatic design incorporates stunning metallic filigree and opulent rhinestones in a shimmering design. This style may be worn with or without a veil for a romantic effect. Add drop earrings to complete your look.

This style is also available in silver.

***

Want to see more? Check out our Love List for more beautiful accessories in yellow gold and rose gold.

14 Reasons to Throw a Valentine’s Day Wedding

shutterstock_69453166

Thinking of getting married on V-Day? Whether you have a personal reason for selecting this date or you just think it’d be romantic, this holiday is full of warm fuzzies. Check out our favorite 14 reasons to say YES to February 14!

***

beautiful-floral-composition-near-bride-000089937787_medium

In Love with Love

One of the most popular days to get engaged or married, Valentine’s Day is synonymous with love.

Mingle Your Singles

It sucks being single on V-Day with nothing to do. Give your single friends a fun and meaningful event to get dressed up for!

bouquet-of-peonies-000042736696_medium

Date Night to the Billionth Power

Or if your friends are married/taken, what better date night than attending an uber-romantic wedding? No reservations needed.

When’s Our Anniversary Again?

Because you’ll never want your SO to seriously ask this question.

A Rose by Any Other Name…

Love roses? Love peonies? Love flowers in general? They’re more expensive this time of year, but when you’re dreaming of romance, lavish florals are the only way to go.

beautiful-fairy-000075070199_Medium-(1).jpg

Passionate for Pink

Blush is a beautiful color for bridal gowns, bridesmaids’ dresses, flowers, bubbly, treats—just about anything that you could incorporate into a wedding.

Black Tie Option

Black tie formal is a fabulous option for your wedding, including classically romantic dresses, sleek tuxes, and glittery gowns. Tie it into a chic theme with red roses and champagne!

Chocolate Everything

Voudrais-tu du chocolat, mon ami? Oui, bien sûr! Toujours oui!

fbadfd0ba04c5e4fe99eab530a514bc0-1

Lovely Quotes

Your Pinterest boards are chock-full of romantic quotes and song lyrics that make your heart flutter. A V-Day wedding’s the perfect time to put them on display!

Forever Flowers

Flower crowns, floral combs, weaving vines, and metallic flower headpieces give you romantic options for a stunning bridal wardrobe. Florals are super popular for bridesmaids, too!

Bride's-squad-000081940699_Medium.jpg

Bachelorette Bash

Make your girl’s night even more fun! Pink and red outfits, hearts, decorations, and candies create a festive atmosphere for your bridal shower, doe party, and everything in between!

Anniversary Time

Did you get engaged on V-Day? Have your first date on V-Day? This would be a romantic and meaningful time for your wedding, too!

Romantic-couple-with-gift-000054520252_Large.jpg

Red Lip

If you’re ever going to rock a red lip, Valentine’s Day is the time to do it. Stunning makeup pairs perfectly with a vintage-inspired or Hollywood wedding theme.

Hearts All Around

When you love your love story, V-Day celebrates the essence of romance with this classic emblem. Use heart balloons, heart treats, heart invitations—heart anything and everything you want!

Buttercup-000027338655_Medium.jpg

***

There you have it—fourteen great reasons to get married on February 14! Also, be sure to check out our My Bridal Style: Romantic page for accessory inspiration, and follow us on Instagram for style updates.

Are you planning a V-Day wedding? Share your ideas with us! 

cy9a3304

10 Vital Things to Know Before You Propose

romantic-engagement-in-paris-000096057553_medium-1

Here at Bel Aire Bridal, we are married, single, it’s complicated, on a second marriage, widowed—with different ages and life challenges. One thing we all agree on: getting married is so special.

If you’re thinking about spending your life with your current partner, congratulations! You are about to embark on a wonderful journey together, and we couldn’t be more excited for you.

In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, we’re going to cover a few things that you should know before you get down on one knee. Make sure you’re proposing the right way!

wedding-summer-couple-together-posing-000076854155_medium

Is He/She Marriage Material?

A person’s moral values, political views, and personality quirks (even their sports teams) usually stay the same despite other changes in life. To be marriage material, your partner should be right for you. Check out our blog 12 Signs You’re With the One if you have ANY doubts about moving forward. *

Ready, Set…

Timing is everything, even when you feel deeply in love. If you’re not ready or he/she isn’t ready, the engagement may do more harm than good. An honest talk about your relationship and expectations about a future together is a nice alternative to a symbolic ring.

How to Love

Couples who get divorced were never as in love as you two… right? Thing is, there’s an important psychology and physiology to love. How does your partner prefer to be appreciated? How do they need to be intimate? Know the specifics of how he/she wants to express and receive love.

How to Fight

If your relationship is pure bliss, chances are it actually isn’t. Many people can get along when times are good; running into challenges will reveal how you relate when it’s not so wonderful. Marriage really is for better and worse. Learn to communicate and be prepared to deal with the worse.

All Those Secrets

Do you know about his childhood crush? That humiliating experience she had in high school? How much student loan debt he really has? Her secret ambition? The weird dream he had last night? Genuine communication goes beyond superficial conversations. Marriage is for life, so be your real self!

About That Sparkler

A nice, basic approach to engagement ring shopping is as follows: research gemstones and the 4 C’s, find an ethical jewelry company, and pick a ring within your budget. When choosing a ring style, you can use social media to help, or just find one that matches his/her personality.

Popping the Question

When proposing, be absolutely sure that your partner will say yes. Your intuition will tell you—and many people even drop hints. If you’re unsure, wait awhile. No one wants to be the girlfriend or boyfriend who has to think up an awkward reply and/or break off a relationship prematurely.

Audience & Ambiance

Proposing is as much about the experience as the question itself. Are you in a private, romantic setting? Somewhere memorable? Somewhere with a view? Also, who is there to witness this big moment—just the two of you, the whole family, a handful of strangers passing by? Plan it out.

Your Delivery

Most women still expect a proposal delivered on one knee with a ring in hand. The basic, “Will you marry me?”  is acceptable. Some people ask using their partner’s full name or give a short speech that expresses their feelings of devotion. Points for creativity, but keep it genuine and you’ll be fine.

How to Celebrate

Getting engaged is a significant event, often professionally photographed or caught on video. A surprise engagement party right afterwards can be nice, if that’s your partner’s style. Other people might prefer a romantic day alone together. Know what he/she would like out of this experience.

couple-in-love-000096192053_medium

***

We wish you a wonderful proposal and happy Valentine’s Day!

XO,

Bel Aire Bridal

*We hope our suggestions are helpful to you! If you need to resolve serious issues in your relationship, we recommend consulting a licensed marriage counselor or professional therapist.

New Romantic Bridal Accessories for 2017

zkurt_boomer_photography_insta_117

When it comes to romance, spring weddings take the cake!

Abundant flowers, softly draped tulle, lush centerpieces, flickering candles, and the natural beauty of the outdoors set the stage for gorgeous weddings. Just as your venue can be styled to create a romantic ambiance, your bridal ensemble adds to your overall mood and theme.

Pretty pearls, glittering hair vines, blush combs, and flower crowns are staples of the romantic bride. Do you know which accessories are right for you?

Take a peek at our newest headpieces and find your favorites! Try them on in a bridal salon near you, and create the perfect outfit for your big day.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-6715.jpg

Bejeweled Vines Clip

6715

Gilded, curling vines bejeweled with rhinestones and pearls create a gorgeous, nature-inspired clip. This lovely accent is easily slips into an updo and beautifully complements a feminine ensemble. It is available in gold, rose gold, or silver to match with your other accessories.

bel-aire-bridal-6718

Sweet Rose Clip

6718

Evoke soft romance with an everlasting rose in full bloom. Delicate organza petals surrounded by intricately beaded sprigs and beautifully crocheted lace create an easy-wear bridal accent. Available in ivory or blush, this perfectly pretty accessory enhances an ensemble featuring lace or flower accents.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-6727-1.jpg

In Full Bloom Comb

6727

Glittering like flowers dressed in dew, this nature-inspired headpiece bestows your hair with instant charm. Metallic leaves, frosted flowers, and crystal sprays on two combs may be styled in a chignon or side updo. Add a dramatic veil to complete an ethereal, romantic outfit.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-6742.jpg

After the Rain Halo

6742

Hello, beauty! This radiant halo incorporates silver rhinestones and petite metallic flowers in a graceful design. Wear it above or beneath a veil for a more bohemian look, or style it with loose waves for a completely romantic style. This silver headpiece pairs beautifully with glittering rhinestone jewelry.

2017-Web-Image-File_6750-3.jpg

Budding Love Headband

6750

Style a beautiful boho-luxe look with a floral tie headband. Delicate mesh leaves and tiny porcelain flowers create an everlasting band that will never wilt. Clear crystals add luminous sparkle to this lovely accessory. Available with gold or silver leaves, this dreamy design can even be styled as a belt.

***

Want to see more? Browse our Spring 2017 collection for all kinds of romantic bridal accessories. Follow us on Instagram for styling ideas!

 

Take Our Quiz: Bridal Earrings for Every Style

IGzkurt_boomer_photography_338.jpgTrying to find the perfect pair of earrings for your wedding day?

We know. The struggle is real!

Your wedding is such an emotion-packed event that every detail matters; the jewelry you wear will always be special. Beautiful bridal earrings add to the unique style of your outfit and forever evoke memories of the big day.

Take our quiz and meet your match! Find out which pair best complements your personal bridal style.

2017-web-image-file_ea242

1. If you could pick a pattern/color for your wedding, it would be:

A.Flowers
B. Sequins
C. Copper
D. White
E. Chevrons
F. Red
G. Vines

2. When dressing up for an event, you prefer:

A. A pretty blouse/skirt combo
B. A stunning gown
C. A stylish outfit
D. Comfortable clothing
E. Vintage-inspired outfit
F. An exotic cocktail dress
G. Natural fabrics that breathe

3. What kind of wedding dessert would you like?

A. Cake with flowers
B. Cake on a chandelier
C. Dessert truck
D. Tiered cake
E. Dessert shots
F. Exotic cuisine
G. Donut bar

4. Your favorite thing about your wedding dress is:

A. The pretty lace
B. The elegant cut
C. The incredible back
D. The long sleeves
E. The beaded fringe
F. The high slit
G. The comfortable fabric

5. When you go to a party, you are:

A. Hanging with your fiancé the whole time
B. Impressing everyone you meet
C. The life of the party
D. Attached at the hip to your best friend
E. Hanging out with the parents
F. Surrounded by a circle of close friends
G. Talking on the porch outside

6. Choose a movie to watch:

A. Love Actually
B. Pretty Woman
C. The Bling Ring
D. Harry Potter
E. The Great Gatsby
F. Serendipity
G. Into the Wild

7. If you could live in one decade forever, it would be:

A. 1890s
B. 1990s
C. 2010s
D. 1950s
E. 1920s
F. 1970s
G. 1960s

8. Which wedding venue would you prefer?

A. Blooming garden
B. Fancy ballroom
C. Remodeled factory
D. Local church
E. Dance club
F. Exotic beach
G. Ancient forest

Got your score? Match it with your results below!

Results:

012717.png

A = Your Earrings Are EA204

You are a romantic with an appreciation for feminine fashions. You love lace and floral designs, and your wedding is going to be nothing short of breathtaking.

These lovely earrings incorporate round rhinestone flower studs with filigree and pear-shaped drops. Available in silver or gold, these beauties are versatile and can be paired with different accessories. Try them with an embroidered or lace edge veil, along with a metal filigree halo or ethereal flower clip.

You might like My Bridal Style: Romantic

012717-1.png

B = Your Earrings Are EA218

You are glamorous with a taste for the finer things. For you, accessories are an extension of your natural grace and style—and the more bling, the better!

This lovely pair of elegant drop earrings adds uncommon beauty to your ensemble. Swirling silver filigree with an Old World design of flowers and shimmering rhinestones create a sparkly, romantic accent. Style these with an exquisite headpiece for your reception and a dramatic veil for the ceremony!

You might like My Bridal Style: Glamorous

012717-2.png

C = Your Earrings Are EA253

You are stylish and trendy; your bridal look is fresh and modern, with a fantastic dose of sparkle. Your wedding will be an incredible party, so you need accessories that wow.

These eye-catching earrings are worthy of your wedding day. Dramatic rhinestone studs surrounded by a halo of sparkle culminate in shimmering drops packed with round, pear, and marquise rhinestones. Anything but old-fashioned, these sparkly beauties add instant glamour to any gown.

You might like My Bridal Style: Trendy

012717-3.png

D = Your Earrings Are EA242

Your style is elegant, classic, and subtly romantic. You prefer simplicity and want to choose jewelry you can wear again for special occasions such as anniversaries.

These lovely little rhinestone studs feature a central stone with a halo of tiny rhinestones. Reminiscent of flowers, this versatile pair adds lightweight beauty to your look. They also perfectly complement your other accessories without adding too much bling.

You might like My Bridal Style: Classic

012717-4.png

E = Your Earrings Are EA255

Your obsession with all things vintage is only surpassed by your love of bling! You are inspired by ‘20s glamour and want a look that is fun yet dazzlingly beautiful.

This lovely pair of vintage-style drop earrings features silver filigree and a stunning array of pear-shaped and round stones. Sparkling with radiant allure, this eye-catching accessory completes a beaded gown with pizazz. You might want to consider a French net veil, too!

You might like My Bridal Style: Vintage

012717-5.png

F = Your Earrings Are EA232

You exude a passion for life and aren’t afraid to shine. Your destination wedding is being held over a whole weekend, so friends and family can enjoy themselves to the fullest.

Stylish and sparkly, this pair of long earrings features pavé rhinestone loops and dramatic pear-shaped drops. You can add this glamorous accent to your engagement party, wedding ceremony, and/or reception outfits. For you, every special occasion is worthy of sparkle.

You might like My Bridal Style: Destination

012717-6.png

G = Your Earrings Are EA230

You are free-spirited and have chosen an unstructured, dreamy outfit. Your rustic outdoor wedding is being held in a natural setting such as the mountains, forest, or beach.

These dainty drop earrings are beautifully bridal and blend into any outfit with effortless style. Simple rhinestone studs and glass pearl drops easily complement your other accessories, whether you’re wearing a floral crown or breezy veil.

You might like My Bridal Style: Bohemian

***

Browse more earrings on our Belts & Jewelry pages, and follow us on Instagram for styling ideas!

Why a Wedding Veil is a Bride’s Best Friend

2017-web-image-file_6702-4

They say dogs are man’s best friend (though some of us prefer cats). Other people firmly believe that diamonds are a girl’s best friend—or perhaps chocolate.

On your wedding day, however, your veil is your best friend! This time-honored accessory is always a good choice for your bridal outfit—and here’s why.

2015_08_06_belairebridal_0416

Figure-Flattering

The secret to choosing the perfect veil is in selecting one that complements your gown silhouette. Your veil has a figure-flattering effect that can lengthen your torso or balance the fullness of your dress.

2015_08_06_belairebridal_0197.jpg

Face-Flattering

The veil you choose can also frame your face. A narrow veil with lots of gathers will help elongate a short face, while a flat mantilla or wider veil with layers will shorten a long face.

2017-Web-Image-File_6727-2.jpg

Theme-Enriching

If you’re a princess bride, a cathedral veil completes your ensemble like nothing else. If you’re a romantic bride, lace is the way to go. If you’re a vintage-inspired bride, French net adds authentic style. Your veil is the ultimate accessory when it comes to creating a themed look!

Bel-Aire-Bridal-KT-Merry-6587-1.jpg

Photo-Enhancing

Go on Pinterest and you’ll see what we mean! Veils are a gorgeous addition to your wedding-day photos, whether they’re wrapped around you in a romantic cocoon, or blowing freely in the breeze.

2015_08_06_belairebridal_0849.JPG

Bridal

Ever see a woman wearing a veil on her birthday? Neither have we. Your wedding is the only time you’ll wear a stunning veil—so give it a go! Even strangers will know you’re a bride and shower you with love on your big day.

zkurt_boomer_photography_310.jpg

Personal

Modern veils are available in a variety of trims and lengths. You have the opportunity to personalize your ensemble by choosing one you love—whether it has scattered lace or shimmering rhinestones, four layers or just one.

2017-web-image-file_v7377c

Beautiful

That moment when a bride walks down the aisle in her wedding veil is irreplaceable. Everyone from your mother and father to your groom and best friend will get teary-eyed. A veil adds utterly magical bridal beauty.

***

Ready to find the perfect veil for your big day? Browse our collections at www.belairebridal.com and try on your favorites at an authorized bridal salon near you!

Our Prettiest Lace Accessories

bride-tying-wedding-dress-000030229382_large

Lace wonderfully enhances a bridal ensemble. There’s something so romantic, timeless, and feminine about lace that is perfect for weddings, whether on a structured mermaid gown, ethereal garden wedding dress, or jaw-dropping ball gown!

If you are a romantic bride, or perhaps you just want to match a lovely lace gown, look no further. We’ve got some gorgeous accessories that will add a special touch of beauty to your big day!

Venise Lace Clip

bel-aire-bridal-6741

6741

Venise lace goes with a bridal ensemble like icing on a cake! Complement your outfit with this lovely crocheted lace clip. This charming design is dotted with rhinestones and pearl clusters, and it may be styled in an updo or worn on the side. Pair it with a classic veil or Venise lace trim to complete your look, or wear it alone for an elegant reception style.

Organza Flower Clip

Bel-Aire-Bridal-6553.jpg

6553

This delicate lace and organza flower clip adds a pretty little accent to your tresses. Featuring beaded lace leaves and tiny rhinestone sprays, this nature-inspired adornment easily slips into any hair style. Pair it with a veil featuring scattered appliqués or a lace trim, or match it with a patterned floral gown for a modern and totally romantic look.

Lace Flower Tie Headband

bel-aire-bridal-6649-2

6649

Style an effortlessly beautiful outfit with a shimmering headband. Lace flowers dance along a flexible rhinestone tie headpiece. Pair it with a lace veil for a romantic ensemble, and add sparkly rhinestone jewelry for a touch of glamour! This design is perfect for any style of wedding and works best with loose waves or down hair.

Alençon Lace Veil

022216-v7034cx

V7034CX

Our most popular lace design, this Alençon trimmed cathedral veil is so beautifully bridal. Available unbeaded or with beading and sequins, this breathtaking cathedral features scalloped floral lace down the sides and along the bottom of the veil. Wear it with anything from vintage-inspired to princess-inspired accessories to complete your look.

Floral Appliqué Veil

2017-Web-Image-File_V7355.jpg

V7355

Scattered lace appliqués add a romantic accent to your bridal ensemble. This light-as-air veil features a rolled edge and beaded Alençon lace motifs for just a wisp of feminine charm. Add a lace hair clip or belt to accessorize and tie together your whole look. This design is available in waltz or cathedral lengths in a variety of colors.

Chantilly Lace Veil

bel-aire-bridal-v7359

V7359CX

Chantilly lace creates a lovely, ethereal look. This pretty cathedral design features airy florals with gentle scallops and tiny eyelash threads. Many gown designers are incorporating Chantilly lace into cover-ups, layered sheath dresses, and even ball gowns for a style that is oh-so-dreamy. Complement this veil with delicate jewelry to add subtle sparkle.

***

Want more? Explore our Spring 2017 Collection to see all our newest items. Check out our Lace Veils and Cathedral Veils pages, and find our lovely accessories at a retailer near you!

5 Easy Ways to Make Your Wedding Earth-Friendly

Beautiful-wedding-couple-outside-in-green-forest-000102601137_Medium.jpg

Do you know your ecological footprint?

A wedding involves anywhere from tens to hundreds of people. Think about how much trash you produce in one day, and multiply it by your guest list. Crazy, right?

Good news! You have a golden opportunity to make some earth-friendly choices and minimize the environmental impact of your event. A little planning (which you’re doing anyway) will go a long way!

 Here are five really easy ways to keep your celebration clean and green.

Transportation & Venue

Greenhouse gases are emitted by fuel-burning vehicles, so minimize how much carbon dioxide you pump into the atmosphere with smart decisions. If possible, select a venue that is close to friends and family, and organize carpooling options. Choose to have the reception at the same place or near the ceremony location to decrease travel on the big day. Some brides and grooms even hire buses to chauffeur their guests!

bouquet-of-wild-flowers-000086643819_Medium.jpg

Materials & Décor

Most weddings consume a lot of resources. Minimize your impact by using recycled and eco-friendly materials as much as possible. You can design electronic save-the-dates, print your invitations on recycled paper, use biodegradable plates and utensils, choose eco-friendly or used linens, and select seasonal, local flowers. Recycle or repurpose as much as possible afterwards. Re-sell items to other brides, so they don’t have to buy new.

Food & Desserts

Support positive, responsible methods of farming and raising food. Choose local suppliers to support business in your community. Choose vegan to avoid harming animals. If you want meat at your wedding, make sure it is Kosher certified or free range/cage-free. Select organic veggies to avoid pesticides and chemicals. A great way to know your food is legit is by hiring a caterer who specializes in a certain type of cuisine, or by doing it yourself.

Bride-holds-tiny-violet-flower-before-her-palm-000106023639_Medium.jpg

Going Away & Favors

Going away favors can cause a mess. If your venue allows confetti, get a biodegradable variety. If you want bubbles, find some that are non-toxic. Avoid rice, because it can be bad for birds and wildlife. Guests can instead ring bells or wave ribbons. Sparklers cannot be recycled; a good alternative is to use candles, which double as a nice gift for your guests. Other eco-friendly gift ideas include seeds, potted plants, or reusable water bottles.

Wardrobe & Beauty

Gowns made from organic fabrics are becoming more available. If you choose a used dress or wear something borrowed, you’re not only getting good luck, but reducing the number of new items manufactured for your wedding. Select makeup from cruelty-free brands (there will be a bunny on the label or it will say it was not animal-tested). Reduce waste by choosing accessories you already own or will use again.

***Bride-000096290541_Medium.jpg

Whether you make one eco-friendly choice or a dozen, know that your wedding will make a positive difference. And who knows? Your event may even inspire guests to incorporate changes into their daily lives—be it trying a vegan recipe or switching cosmetic brands. Every little bit counts!

Have more ideas about how to throw an earth-friendly wedding? Let us know!

New Releases: Cathedral Veils from Our Spring 2017 Collection

Want to look incredible on your big day? Try on a cathedral veil!

Cathedral veils are trending big this year, and it’s no surprise that these stunning styles were a huge hit at the bridal markets. Complementing many designer gowns, these lovely styles enrich your wedding day ensemble with unforgettable beauty.

Take a peek at some of our newest designs and find the perfect look for you.

Flowers for a Romantic

bel-aire-bridal-v7391c

V7391CX

Lace is effortlessly romantic. Style a swoonworthy ensemble with a gorgeous Alençon lace veil. Swirling lace flowers bloom along the edge of this cathedral veil beneath a slender rolled edge. The perfect combination of simple and stunning, this design evokes heartfelt beauty.

You might like My Bridal Style: Romantic

Sealed with a Kiss

bel-aire-bridal-v7415c-1

V7415C

Style a classic, beautiful bridal look. This lovely 2-tier cathedral veil features a foldover elbow length blusher that may be worn forward for the walk down the aisle and back for the reception. A folded ribbon edge adds a finished look to this graceful design, which complements any gown with ease.

You might like My Bridal Style: Classic

Like a Celebrity

bel-aire-bridal-v7414c

V7414C

When more is better, bring on the lace! This romantic cathedral veil combines a rolled edge and gorgeous Venise lace in an utterly stunning design. Intricate floral embroidery creates a feeling of dramatic luxury. Tie it in with your gown by adding a Venise lace comb or floral belt.

You might like My Bridal Style: Trendy

Soft Beauty

bel-aire-bridal-v7407c

V7407C

True beauty whispers directly to your heart. A cut edge cathedral veil features a foldover fingertip length blusher that drifts over your silhouette with ethereal elegance. This match-everything design is made from our soft, luxurious faux silk tulle and beautifully accents any gown.

You might like My Bridal Style: Classic

Old World Elegance

bel-aire-bridal-v7413c

V7413C

Inspired by Old World designs, this scalloped cathedral veil evokes romantic charm. Silver floral embroidery channels nature’s beauty with delicate grace. This versatile design may be paired with a delicate boho-chic hair vine, a romantic floral headpiece, or a regal tiara for a complete ensemble.

You might like My Bridal Style: Destination

Bohemian with a Twist

Bel-Aire-Bridal-V7405C.jpg

V7405C

Trendy and modern yet blissfully simple, this 2-tier foldover cathedral veil enhances your look with breezy beauty. A cascading double row of narrow horsehair adds subtle shape and style. Personalize this design by adding your own accessories, and create a completely unique bridal outfit.

You might like My Bridal Style: Bohemian

Sparkle for the Camera

Bel-Aire-Bridal-V7410.jpg

V7410C

Because a little sparkle just isn’t enough. Go all in for your big day and shine with a dramatic, rhinestone-scattered cathedral veil. This starry, glittering design is as boldly beautiful as the bride who wears it. Add glamorous drop earrings and a bridal belt to finish off your look.

You might like My Bridal Style: Glamorous

Old-Fashioned Charm

bel-aire-bridal-v7403

V7403C

Some styles never go out of fashion. This lovely, vintage-inspired design features swirling beaded scrolls along a cut edge. Graceful, glittering rhinestone and pearl accents create an elegant pattern sure to turn heads. Pair it with a beaded belt and pearl jewelry to complete the look.

You might like My Bridal Style: Vintage

Pretty as a Princess

bel-aire-bridal-v7402c

V7402C

When romance is in the air, rise to the occasion with a gorgeous lace veil. Shimmering with sequins and tiny rhinestone accents, this gilded lace design features a gently scalloped edge with elaborate embroidery. This exquisite design is lavish, opulent, and perfect for any formal affair.

You might like My Bridal Style: Romantic

***

Check out our Cathedral Veils page for even more incredible designs! Find a retailer near you to try them on with your gown, and create a personalized ensemble for your big day.