10 Really Good Reasons to Have a Christmas Wedding

new-years-toast-000052847742_medium

Every year, we see gorgeous photos of winter weddings.

Pearly blues and whites, deep reds and greens, and/or bold jewel tones deck any venue with festive style. Soft neutrals and shimmering metallics add enchanting flair. To top it off, snowy landscapes create a backdrop for magnificent photos.

All in all, with the sparkly lights and warm fuzzy feelings, winter weddings evoke a magical ambiance. Today, we’re highlighting this “off-peak” season with a celebration of Christmas weddings!

Here are ten really good reasons why you should consider skipping June nuptials and booking in December, instead.

Studio-shot-of-young-beautiful-bride-000086238227_Large.jpg

Twinkling Lights

Strung lights, lit up trees, glowing candles, festive porches, and hanging lanterns all feel right at home during this season. This means dramatic photo ops for your engagement and/or wedding photos that evoke pure romance! Get pics smooching in front of the Christmas tree, cuddling by a hearth with a roaring fire, or skating beneath glittering lights for extra-special memories.

Classic Greenery

A rustic winter wedding is homey, charming, and so magical. Incorporate berries and greenery in the form of a bridal wreath, chair covers, table runners, centerpieces, or an arch! Winter florals tend to be more expensive, so adding in branches, candles, lanterns, and other non-flower elements gives your wedding refreshingly modern texture.

Seasonal Elements

Snow-decked invitations, frosted pine cones, and glittering faux snowflakes mirror the beauty of this chilly season. You can make your celebration rustic with golden reindeer or more glamorous with glittering ornaments. If there’s not going to be snow, you can still decorate your venue with metallics or plaids that create a wintery ambiance.

Sweet Savings

We all know the most coveted months to get married are during the summer and late fall—so if you schedule your wedding during the off-season, you’ll get cheaper rates. On the venue. The photographer. The honeymoon. Everything! Your guests can score some holiday deals on your gifts, too.

Decadent Snacks

Hot chocolate. Enough said. But if you really need more motivation, how about gingerbread, peppermint coffee, roasted vegetable soup, pot pies, cheesy potatoes, cranberries, and apple pie. Need we go on? The post-harvest season is full of delicious foods and warming drinks that will keep your guests satisfied.

Newlyweds-kissing-near-a-Christmas-decoration-000064349847_Medium.jpg

Cuddle Weather

How many engagement photos have you seen with couples hugging in the snow or snuggled beneath a huge blanket? The chilly weather naturally draws us closer to each other, and perhaps that’s why this season is big on heartwarming romance. Play off this theme in your wedding with candles, soft lighting, and cozy blankets for guests to keep warm.

Spectacular Sparkle

If the only sparkly part of your ensemble is your engagement ring, that is absolutely fine. A rustic winter wedding is unassuming and romantic. If you do want a glamorous wedding, however, this is the best season to shine! Transform your venue into a glittering, wintery wonderland with sequin table cloths or table runners, gilded candles, and strung lights.

Pure Glamour

This is the perfect opportunity to dress up like a real princess. Create an effortlessly glamorous outfit with drop earrings, a stunning hair adornment, and a shimmering belt. Long cathedral veils with rhinestone accents, intricate beadwork, or luxurious lace will beautifully enhance your outfit. ‘Tis the season for sparkle, so feel free to style your bridesmaids in sequins!

Small Footprint

Give favors that can be used again and again! Guests can make their own ornaments with gingerbread or craft supplies. Another way to green up your wedding is by giving away mini trees, poinsettias, or bulbs/seeds to plant. You can gift reusable mugs or tasty build-your-own hot chocolate kits. Encourage guests to meet up again at a volunteer event, or ask for donations to charity on your registry.

Religious Meaning

Your family was probably already planning to gather for the holidays, and your local church or wedding venue will be beautifully decorated. But the best reason of all to host a Christmas-themed wedding is to honor the spirit of the holiday. Express the love and joy of this season by promoting goodwill, tolerance, and respect towards others—including those with different beliefs from your own—and start your marriage off right!

bride-and-groom-in-the-winter-woods-000077203257_Medium.jpg

Happy Holidays!
XOXO, Bel Aire Bridal

5 Belts for Frosty Weddings

snowy-heart-000029870294_medium

Winter weddings are gorgeous. Not only do you get pristine snowy scenery, but anything that sparkles seems even more brilliant.

We love bridal belts because they tie your other accessories together so well. They also “dress up” your gown with some extra shimmer. That’s not to mention that they’re super figure-flattering, too!

These stylish accents are so perfect for glamorous winter weddings. Our pretty bridal belts feature glittering rhinestones, intricate beading, and budding flowers. Transform your gown with a romantic, eye-catching accent and make your outfit uniquely beautiful—just like you!

Bel-Aire-Bridal-6377.jpg

Sparkling Silver Filigree & Tulle

6377

A soft tulle sash blends into the background of your gown, while the stunning silver filigree design twists and twirls with gorgeous sparkle. This lovely tie belt can come with ivory, white, diamond white, blush, champagne, or latte tulle. Pair it with drop earrings or a shimmering veil for a glamorous look.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-BT063.jpg

Vintage-Inspired Sparkle & Beadwork

BT063

Retro and utterly fabulous, this sparkly little number features a vintage-inspired design of silver beading and shimmering rhinestones. Pair this captivating piece with Art Deco earrings or a faux fur wrap to accentuate your theme. Style your look with a bold red lip and some sass, while you’re at it!

Bel-Aire-Bridal-BT059-3.jpg

Sparkling Opal & Clear Rhinestones

BT059

There’s nothing like pure sparkle to complement a dreamy bridal look. Tie off a noteworthy ensemble with a pretty belt featuring clear or opal rhinestones in a shimmering line. This simply gorgeous design matches a variety of other rhinestone accessories and easily ties on ribbons.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-BT050.jpg

Organza Peonies & Alençon Lace

BT050

Thinks flowers are just for spring and summer weddings? Not so fast! This lovely peony tie sash features sparkling rhinestone accents and beaded lace for a classic accent that looks romantic in any weather. Tie it into your ensemble with a lace veil or floral accents in a neutral color scheme.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-BT030-3.jpg

Silver Beading & Rhinestone Embellishments

BT030

Styling a fairy-tale ensemble? Exquisitely regal, this rhinestone-embellished tie sash lays on the sparkle; detailed, silver beadwork creates an opulent accent fit for a princess. Pair this with the rhinestone accessories of your choice for an unforgettable outfit.

***

Want to see more? Browse our Belts page to check out a variety of designs. Be sure to pick out Jewelry to finish off your look!

Fabulous Winter Style Trends for 2017 Weddings

bride-and-groom-wedding-with-dog-winter-outdoor-000103390735_medium-1

The countdown is on! As we head into the last weeks of this year, we’re taking a look of some of the most fabulous winter trends from 2016.

If you’re planning a winter wedding for next year, be sure to include some of these gorgeous ideas for an absolutely spectacular ensemble!

Sparkle Sparkle Sparkle

According to Brides, accessories are going to be big next year. Of course, we’ve always felt that accessories are the best way to customize your bridal ensemble and really make it yours. For winter weddings, play up the sparkle—glamorous earrings and glittering tiaras beautifully reflect the romantic lighting of winter wedding venues. Want to keep it rustic? A pretty floral crown with berries, branches, or cooler tones reflects the season’s natural beauty.

groom-in-a-blue-suit-and-bride-in-white-000083711417_Medium.jpg

Long Sleeves

Gown designers of 2017 are wowing us with bishop sleeves, long lace sleeves, and flutter sleeves! Longer sleeves are perfect for a winter wedding and, apart from looking super stylish, help keep you warm. Adding a separate such as a shawl, cardigan, or sweater is another winter-friendly option that gives your photos personalized, home-spun charm.

Capes & Veils

The princess bride theme and fairy-tale weddings are popular every winter, as glamorous and sparkly accessories gracefully accent the icy beauty of this season. And what better way to keep warm than beneath a whimsical bridal cape? Many designers are adding dramatic capes to their 2017 gowns. You can also mirror this trend with a stunning cathedral veil. Whether you’re into lace trims or sparkling embroidery, the perfect design is waiting for you.

Bold Makeup

Neutral bridal makeup, messy updos, and heavy lashes were on trend this year. Fall and winter weddings have been the notable exception, showing off beautiful jewel tones! A bold lip or sparkly eyeshadow enhances a winter bridal look with flair. Metallics are still popular, so style your makeup to complement your sparkly accessories in silver, rose gold, or gold.

***

Cocoa,-coffee-marshmelou-000104173983_Medium.jpg

Want to read more? Check with fashion experts to help you plan your winter wedding:

http://www.brides.com/gallery/wedding-dress-trends-for-fall-2017

http://www.brit.co/winter-wedding-trends-2016/

http://www.elle.com/fashion/trend-reports/g28984/bridal-trends-2017/

How To Be a Glamorous Bride Part 2: Your Hair Jewelry

I-DO!-000074349385_Medium-(2).jpg

Are you styling a glamorous bridal outfit?

On your wedding day, you deserve to look and feel amazing. Over-the-top beauty is achievable and actually quite simple, once you choose the right accessories.

You can build a gorgeous, unique bridal outfit with eye-catching jewelry, a dramatic veil, and a pretty hair adornment. Choose these items with care—they will forever remind you of your big day!

This week, we’re showcasing our most glamorous headpieces. Make your wedding day extra sparkly!

bel-aire-bridal_6663

Rhinestone-Packed Comb

6663

Packed with a variety of shimmering rhinestone shapes, this gorgeous comb slips into an updo with show-stopping elegance. Pair it with drop earrings for maximum impact.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-6615-3.jpg

Opal Rhinestone Fascinator

6615

For a trendy twist, try on an opal rhinestone fascinator. Glittering with a variety of sparkly stones, this lovely design takes center stage.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-6611.jpg

Rhinestone Cluster Headband

6611

A quintessentially glamorous accessory, this design features clusters of rhinestones in a dense headband. Show off pure sparkle.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-6583.jpg

Crystal & Rhinestone Tiara

6583

Calling all princesses! This lovely crystal and rhinestone tiara crowns your ensemble with exquisite grace and beauty. Pair it with a veil for swoonworthy style.

Roma-Bea-Images-Bel-Aire-Bridal-6500-3.jpg

Sparkling Filigree Halo

6500

Top off your ensemble with a sparkling bridal halo. Silver filigree and shimmering stones create a charming accent that is beautiful with or without a veil.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-6560.jpg

Rhinestone Flower Clip

6560

Enhance your hairstyle with a pretty rhinestone flower clip. Easy to wear and oh-so-sparkly, this decadent design adds a touch of feminine romance to your look.

bel-aire-bridal_6668

Rhinestone Appliqué Tie Headband

6668

Give your ensemble a vintage twist with this shimmering tie headband. Marquise rhinestones create a dazzling design that can be worn in your hair or as a belt.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-6284.jpg

Contoured Rhinestone Band

6284

A classy alternative to a full-on crown, this contoured tiara headband features a sparkling line of rhinestones. This design is available in rose gold or silver.

***

Want to explore more options? Check out our newest headpiece collection or browse our My Bridal Style: Glamorous page for ideas. Follow us on Instagram for the latest bridal news and styles!

 

Shoulder Jewelry Spotlight

klk-photography-bel-aire-bridal-2016-19

Dare to go bare?

Strapless gowns are a bold, beautiful choice for a wedding in any season. In the winter, bare shoulders give you the opportunity to style your gown with a bolero, shawl, pashmina—or shoulder jewelry!

For the most glamorous of brides, shoulder jewelry can complement your dress or transform your entire look. Check out our lovely designs to see your options!

bel-aire-bridal-sh206

Enchanting Rhinestone Sparkle

SH206

Pure sparkle beautifully complements your gown with classic elegance. Triple strands of rhinestones connect with rhinestone motifs for a gorgeous alternative to a traditional necklace.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-SH208.jpg

Shimmering Crystals & Beaded Appliqués

SH208

For extra-dramatic sparkle, a shimmering combination of clear crystals and decadently beaded appliqués adds glamour to your look. This design beautifully complements other crystal or rhinestone accessories.

bel-aire-bridal-sh207

Romantic Pearl Appliqués

SH207

Add a whimsical touch of romance to your ensemble with embellished appliqués and pearl strands. This vintage-inspired design beautifully complements pearl jewelry and/or lace gowns.

bel-aire-bridal-sh209

Sparkling Crystals & Beads

SH209

Add a light dash of sparkle with alternating strands of silver beads and clear crystals attached to rhinestone motifs. This glittering design is a princess-worthy addition to a dreamy ensemble.

Bel-Aire-Bridal-SH210.jpg

Vintage Pearls & Rhinestones

SH210

Adorn your shoulders with a vintage-inspired design of pearls and rhinestones. This classic design of triple strands adds lustrous sparkle and wonderfully complements vintage gowns.

***

Want to see more? Check out our jewelry sets, bracelets, earrings, and belts for that special something new for your big day!

8 Reasons to Get Engaged This Winter

iStock-538354222-(1).jpg

When you know, you just know.

Love naturally transforms a relationship until you want to make a lasting commitment, and anything less would feel incomplete. If you’re at this point, congratulations!

Now you just have to decide when to pop the question.

Some people time it based on when they’d like to get married—for example, 12–15 months before their desired wedding day. Others choose a favorite season or a significant day, such as a birthday or holiday.

iStock-187666199-(1).jpg

Here are eight reasons to get engaged this winter!

Discounted rings

An engagement ring represents an investment—but a holiday sale doesn’t hurt.

Romantic ambiance

All those sparkly holiday lights will make her bling sparkle even more.

Cuddle weather

So you can get all cozy before or after she says “Yes!”

Snowy engagement photos

Go on Pinterest and see what we mean. A.M.A.Z.I.N.G.

Holiday surprise

What better gift than a promise to be together forever?

Family is already together

This is a convenient time to celebrate your engagement without spoiling the surprise.

Winter activities as part of the proposal

Instead of one memorable proposal moment, you’ve had a whole awesome day.

You can’t wait any longer

Like we said: when you know, you just know.

iStock-505668484-(1).jpg

Ready to propose? Check out our Ring Bling and Engagement Photos boards on Pinterest for ideas! How He Asked is also a great resource.

Giving Thanks: The Absolute Best Favors for Wedding Guests

Autumn-Thanksgiving-arrangement-with-thank-you-message-000076289397_Medium.jpg

Happy Black Friday! In the wake of Thanksgiving, we remember that this holiday is actually about sharing the bounty of harvest and giving thanks for all the wonderful things we have in our lives.

Let your wedding guests know that you appreciate their presence (and presents!) at your celebration. While a thank-you card is traditional, an additional going-away favor is a nice touch. This can be something inexpensive, practical, or even edible—it just gives your friends and family a little piece of the wedding to take home.

We’ve compiled a list of the very best favors for wedding guests. Browse these ideas for every theme and budget.

Let Love Grow

Succulent-Wedding-Favors-000098735821_Medium-(1).jpg
For you eco-conscious brides (and we hope this means everyone), a favor that enriches the environment makes a meaningful gift. Seeds or a little plant beautifully symbolize the new beginning of your marriage and how your love will grow over time. You can give potted flowers in the spring, succulents in the summer or fall, and mini trees to plant in the winter. Give away your favorite varieties!
Seeds
• Mini trees
• Flowers in decorated jars
• Succulents
• Herbs

Take a Shot, We Tied the Knot

Bride-with-bridesmaids-000083081117_Medium.jpg
If you’re partying hard at your reception, play off this theme with drinking accessories! Shot glasses with a cute quote or design make a fun favor. Bottle stoppers or wine openers are a classy gift for a vineyard wedding—or give personalized wine glasses, or even mix a unique vintage for guests to take home. Keep in mind your grandmother may or may not appreciate a mini bottle of jack.
• Wine glasses
• Shot glasses
• Wine accessories (bottle stoppers, bottle openers, wine rings)
• Wine
• Mini alcohol bottles (jack, rum, champagne, etc.)
• Hangover recovery kit
• Coasters

Love is Sweet

Wedding-favors-000093543895_Medium.jpg
Food is a favor that everyone will enjoy. In the spring, you can give individually wrapped cookies or chocolates; in the summer, s’mores kits, chocolate pretzels, and popcorn; in the fall, maple syrup, mini pies, jam, and candied apples; in the winter, hot chocolate, peppermints, and spices. Decorate little jars, boxes, or bags to make this gift extra special.

• Hot chocolate
• Candied apples
• Pretzels or popcorn
• Hershey kisses or chocolate
• Honey or jam
• Mints
• Candy
• S’mores
• Donuts or cookies
• Mini pies
• Maple syrup
• Coffee or tea
• Spices

You Light Up Our Lives

Christmas-lantern-000079205909_Medium.jpg

For an evening ceremony and/or reception, guide your guests safely home. Candles smell nice and have a domestic feeling—especially if you attach your names or bundle some dried flowers around them. Mini lanterns are practical if you’re hosting a camping or outdoors wedding, and guests might need extra light to walk back to their cabins.
• Candles
• Mini lanterns
• Matches
• Sparklers
• Flashlights

Share the Love

Give,-Donate,-Charity-000089853971_Medium.jpg

It’s nice to give back. And how often do guests really keep a favor with someone else’s name and wedding date attached to it? Skip the DIY craziness and give a gift with meaning. Donate to charity in your guests’ names. You can hand out a small flier or pin to remind them of the contribution, and everyone gets warm fuzzies all around.
• Donation to charity

Creature Comforts

bride-and-bridesmaid-showing-off-shoes-000013697769_mediumYou know that moment when you think, Oh, I wish I’d packed—insert item here—? Especially for weekend-long affairs, it can be hard to remember everything. Provide for your guests’ comfort with a thoughtful gift to use during the wedding! This one takes advance planning and possibly a bigger budget, but this stuff is so darn useful we had to list it.
• Flip flops for dancing
• Beach towels
• Sunglasses
• Fans
• Gloves
• Blankets
• Reusable water bottles
• Umbrellas
• Pashminas or scarves

Take Me Home Tonight

Gray-Blankets-000059533296_Medium.jpg
Any small gift can be labeled with names or a cute quote. If you’re hosting an intimate wedding, you can even customize one for each guest! Ornaments are perfect for a holiday celebration, while crystals might be more appropriate for the summer. Choose something that feels right to you.
• Ornament
• Soap or lip balm
• Perfume or cologne
• Handkerchiefs
• Keychains
• Crystals or geodes
• Wedding soundtrack

A favor can share more about your love story, serve as dessert-to-go, or express your appreciation right away. Can’t afford a wedding favor, or don’t have time to DIY? Don’t worry! A thank-you card will suffice. Some guests don’t wind up keeping favors—but everyone likes to be recognized for attending.

***
Did you go to a wedding with awesome favors? Share your favorites!

Beautiful Beadwork: 5 Incredible Veils to Match Your Gown

iStock-178937801.jpg

You’ve had that moment. A lightbulb flashed on, or perhaps your heart quickened a beat when you looked in the mirror. You’ve found the perfect wedding dress.

Even the ideal dress usually needs to be altered or paired with accessories to maximize its potential. Only when you’ve added a gorgeous veil, the right shoes, or a pretty pair of earrings will the whole outfit truly feel magical—and ready for your wedding.

Designers have been pulling out all the stops for 2017: we’re seeing gorgeous beadwork on everything from vintage-inspired sheaths to princess-worthy ball gowns. To complete your dream ensemble, discover a beaded veil that complements the detail on your wedding dress.

Check out a few favorites that have been selling like crazy in bridal salons across the country!

Crystals GaloreBel-Aire-Bridal-V7301.jpg

V7301

Sparkling with an edge of clear crystals, twinkly rhinestones, and silver bugle beads, this lovely fingertip design is radiantly beautiful. Pair it with your chosen jewelry to complete a glamorous look. This style is available in champagne, diamond white, ivory, or white. Want even more bling? It comes in cathedral length, too!

Graduated Glitter

Bel-Aire-Bridal-V7363.jpg

V7363

Frosted silver beads grace the edge of this lovely fingertip length veil. This design starts out in a narrow, delicate trail of sparkle at the comb and gets more dramatic along the bottom. The graduated beading pairs beautifully with jewelry, keeping you from looking top-heavy while adding more interesting detail along the curve. It is available in ivory or white and also comes in cathedral length.

Pretty Pearls

Bel-Aire-Bridal-V7304.jpg

V7304

Pearls are classically bridal, and this hugely popular design may be paired with the jewelry of your choice! This lovely fingertip veil features faux pearls, silver bugle beads, and shimmering rhinestones. The perfect balance of romance and glamour, this design is available in diamond white, ivory, or white. It comes in cathedral length, too!

Rainbow Sparkle

Bel-Aire-Bridal-V7374.jpg

V7374

Dream of adding a dazzling accent to your ensemble? This trendy and unique veil features a silver beaded edge and glamorous opal rhinestone clusters. Pair it with rhinestone or opal crystal jewelry, or add an opal rhinestone embellished belt like BT068 to complete your look. This design is available in ivory or white, in fingertip or cathedral lengths.

The Works

v7056

V7056

This seasonal favorite combines a beautiful silver rolled edge with sparkling rhinestones, faux pearls, clear crystals, and silver budge beads. Available in elbow, fingertip, or cathedral lengths, this gorgeous design is so popular that we make it in every color: blush, champagne, diamond white, ivory, or white. Pair it with a pretty headpiece to complete your ensemble.

Want to see more? Check out our beaded veils and cathedral veils pages for additional designs. Follow us on Instagram for styled shoots and bridal inspiration!

How to Get in Wedding Shape: 5 Best Practices

Young-bride-with-a-race-number-000083850105_Medium.jpg

With the holidays right around the corner, you probably aren’t thinking about cutting back for the big day—especially if you have lots of time to prepare!

Good news: your partner already thinks you are beautiful. So the best way to prep for your wedding day is to simply be the healthiest version of yourself.

If you’re like most of us and want to improve in some area, it’s easier (and safer) to change your habits over the span of a few months than, say, two frantic weeks before your wedding.

Here are five easy ways to commit to great health. Make this winter your best ever!

Multiethnic-couple-in-the-kitchen-000062790852_Medium.jpg

Eat Healthy

Getting healthy for your wedding should be a lifestyle choice (not a crash diet). You don’t have to cut out pumpkin spice lattes or skip holiday cookies, but do focus on incorporating more healthy foods. Make it easier by stocking nutritious substitutes for empty-calorie snacks.

Dark leafy greens, colorful vegetables, and seasonal fruits add valuable micronutrients to your diet. Avoid white carbs that have been stripped of their nutrition, and instead opt for whole grains. Choose protein sources that are low in saturated fat, and take vitamins to bolster your immune system. Sugar can boost your mood, but keep splurges reasonable. If you’re feeling down, learn to reward yourself with something other than food.

Fitness-couple-workout-fit-man-and-woman-train-in-gym-000084156527_Medium.jpg

Exercise

For that beautiful bridal glow, lead an active lifestyle. The recommended amount of exercise is at least 30 minutes a day for 5 days out of the week. It’s best to switch up your routine to keep things interesting. You can try a new sport or revive something you enjoyed in the past: swimming, yoga, cycling, stretching, and walking are all low-impact activities. Interested in a high-intensity sport like running or kick boxing? Consult a doctor before you begin.

Build up your distance and time safely, until the exercise is a habit. If you don’t have a lot of time during the day, you can even split your workout into smaller 10 or 20 minute segments. Add weight training or Pilates to build muscle tone. Every little bit counts!

Sunday-afternoon-slumber-000090980603_Medium.jpg

Sleep

This one doesn’t take months to practice, but you should be mindful of your sleep schedule as the wedding approaches. According to researchers, adequate sleep is essential to health and wellness. Lack of sleep contributes to a depressed immune system, attention lapses, irritability, poor memory and judgment, and even anxiety!

Avoid staying up late on your computer/phone, texting vendors at every hour of the day, and putting off DIY favors until the last minute. (Seriously, that project is going to take twice as long as you think it will.) Plan ahead and delegate so you can rest easy. Yes, you can use makeup to hide the bags under your eyes, but why bother? Get your full 7–9 hours of recommended sleep.

Cup-of-tea-with-thyme-herb-and-lemon-slices-000086928777_Medium.jpg

Drink Water

Dehydration makes you crabby and forgetful—not to mention hungry. To avoid all that unpleasantness, be sure that you are drinking enough. Plain water is usually the best, and you can also get fluids through fruits and vegetables. Lemon water adds vitamin C to your diet, which is great for your skin. In addition, lemons are antibacterial, reduce inflammation, and aid digestion.

Caffeinated beverages such as tea and coffee are ok in moderate amounts; they provide some antioxidants but flush nutrients from your system. Be aware that alcohol is also a major diuretic, depleting your body of water—it also floods your liver with toxins. So be smart and drink clean, especially the month before your wedding.

spa-massage-000077417329_Medium-(1).jpg

De-Stress

Did you know that stress makes you gain weight? It also lowers your immune system and puts you at risk for long-term health issues. Planning a wedding is no easy task, so give yourself a break! Delegate tasks that you don’t absolutely need to handle; ask for help from your MOH and groom. This applies to implementing a healthier lifestyle, too—when you’re trying to change a habit, a support system helps a ton! Take breaks from wedding planning, and do things that you enjoy.

Above all, keep things in perspective. You don’t need to be perfect; this is about improving your health and feeling great. Marrying the person you love is what truly makes your wedding beautiful.

Bowl-in-the-shape-of-a-heart-with-fresh-raspberries-000084590385_Medium.jpg

What are your best tips for getting in wedding-worthy shape? Share your ideas!

6 On-Trend Essentials for Your 2017 Wedding

My-answer-is-yes!-000108784591_Medium.jpg

Engaged? Congrats!

Getting married is, of course, about celebrating your love and commitment. Although weddings are steeped in tradition, having one doesn’t mean you need to feel like you’re in a previous century.

Modern ceremonies can incorporate everything from pop culture references to non-religious vows. Your celebration should feel special—a great way to do this is by incorporating the things you love best!

We’ve rounded up six ways to personalize your wedding in ways that are totally unique and modern. Scroll down for ideas that might work for you!

pouring-tea-at-a-garden-party-000043007540_medium

Own Your Colors & Theme

While the venue you choose influences the overall feeling of your wedding, the colors and theme you select make a huge impact. For example, if your favorite color is blue, represent it in your wedding! Or maybe you’re in love with a tea party theme because he proposed in a garden. From Star Wars to engineering to cupcakes—whatever your passion is, incorporate it into your décor and make the celebration truly your own.

Cup-cake-for-wedding-ceremony.jpg

Signature Food & Drink

Gone are the days of the standard, multi-tiered wedding cake. (If you want one, of course you can have one—anything goes!) Whether you envision a table filled with desserts or a donut bar, your favorite treats can find a place at your wedding. This goes for meals, too—it’s fun to serve family dishes instead of picking random courses from a caterer. Signature drinks for the bride and groom are trending, or you can feature seasonal foods and drinks. Pumpkin spice lattes, anyone?

Just-married-couple-on-top-of-the-mountain-taking-selfie-000103428107_Medium.jpg

Social Media or Unplugged

Some couples create a hashtag to collect photos from their guests, particularly from the reception. Other couples prefer to leave the work to professional photographers and videographers, so their guests can enjoy living in the moment. The decision of whether or not to allow cell phones is entirely personal. Connected weddings better include absentees and encourage sharing on social media. Unplugged ceremonies focus on in-person experiences and keep photos exclusive. Your call.

wedding-day-in-Budapest-000106862255_Medium.jpg

Dress To Impress

These days, what you wear at your wedding is up to you. While religious traditions hold an honored place in wedding ceremonies, wedding gown designers have created gowns for every style. Big trends right now include full skirts, removable layers, off-the-shoulder necklines, and exotic laces. Keep in mind that a room full of people will be watching—but your dress doesn’t have to cover every inch of your skin, either. Choose a gown that makes you feel beautiful, comfortable, and very much like you.

i-do-000074349385_medium-1

Personalized Accessories

It’s the little things that count. A sparkly belt, stunning shoes, a pretty clutch, or a silky shawl will make a big difference on the big day! Wear your favorite earrings, or maybe pin on a family heirloom such as a brooch. The point of something old and something new is not to fulfill superstitions, but to incorporate personal history into your wedding ceremony. Also, coordinating a pretty veil and headpiece will really make you feel like a gorgeous bride.

Rustic-Dining-Table-000075676933_Medium.jpg

Ethical & Sustainable Choices

From flowers to dresses, it’s easier than ever to know exactly where your stuff comes from. Modern weddings are all about positive choices: hire local businesses, order organic food, or gift eco-friendly favors. Reduce pollution by providing group transportation for guests. Order invitations printed on recycled paper (or go paperless). Consider asking for donations to charity on your registry. The giving-back trend focuses on doing good for the environment and your community.

Enjoyment.-Free-woman-arms-outstretched.jpg

Are you planning a 2017 wedding? Check out our headpieces and veils for adornment options, explore My Bridal Style: Trendy, and follow us on Instagram for updates on all things bridal!