5 Must-Have Items for Every Spring Bride

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It’s finally spring! The sun is peeking through, tiny birds are chirping, and trees are starting to bud. Today, we’re spotlighting lovely spring weddings and sharing our tips for how to stay warm, look stylish, and absolutely glow on your big day!

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PRETTY VEIL

There’s nothing like a whimsical veil to add glorious beauty to your bridal look. Even if you’re not a head-over-heels romantic bride, this lovely accessory is a must-have when it comes to your ceremony and bridal portraits. This is also a great opportunity to express your personal style.

Choose a soft floral lace for a touch of romance; lace appliqués or more structured Alen­çon lace for a traditional look; rhinestones or beads for fairy-tale sparkle; and a clear cut edge or light rolled edge veil for sheer elegance. Short or long, you can find a design that is totally you.

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STYLISH JACKET

Spring weather can be pretty unpredictable. Sure, your groom will give up his suit jacket so you don’t freeze, but do you really want to cover up your gorgeous gown—and leave him shivering?

Plan ahead by choosing a light shawl, bridal jacket or bolero, or a cute wrap. Even if it doesn’t rain, you can use it for your getaway or even honeymoon! More bridal salons are offering these accessories in a range of styles—from 3D flowers on organza to intricately beaded cover ups to silky scarves, so pick one that will keep you looking beautifully bridal.

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CHANGE OF SHOES

Whether you’re getting married inside or outdoors, you’ll want at least two pairs: one for your walk down the aisle and one for the reception. Typically, it’s best to choose a wide heel for outdoor ceremonies and formal heels for weddings inside. Reception shoes can be anything that you are comfortable dancing in for at least a couple hours—choose something attractive yet cushiony (like a flat) that you can rely on.

If it rains, it’s not a bad idea to bring an extra pair of sneakers—some brides even wear boots! Lots of great photo opps revolve around shoes, so play around and have fun. Florals, bling, and bold colors offer you a range of options.

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EMERGENCY BEAUTY KIT

Every bride should have an emergency kit for touch-ups. After all, people will be taking photos of you literally the entire day—and probably into the night, depending on how long your reception lasts.

A concealer, powder, blush, mascara, lip gloss, and lip stick are pretty standard. Make sure to include oil blotting pads or wipes, makeup remover, a comb, and spare pins. Between the ceremony and reception is a good time to sneak away to touch up.

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FLOWER HEADPIECE

Spring is the perfect season to grace your hair with gorgeous flowers! You can incorporate the beauty of nature with any number of headpiece options.

If you’re wearing lace, try a soft fabric flower comb or headband with delicate floral details. To jazz up a simple dress, enhance your ensemble with a sparkly hair vine or vintage-inspired comb. If you’re featuring gold in your look, choose painted gold leaves or metallic flowers. Going boho-chic? Try on a dazzling rhinestone halo. Keep looking until you find that perfect treasure for your big day.

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Are you getting married in the spring? Check out our Instagram feed for seasonal bridal inspiration!

5 Tips for Planning a Religious Wedding

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Marriage is steeped with religious meaning. Though social views have changed over time, many people still view it as a sacred union.

Often, brides and grooms choose civil ceremonies for more flexibility; however, religious traditions may still be incorporated to honor one or both parties. In fact, this can be a helpful option if one partner is more spiritual than the other, or each person comes from a different faith.

If you prefer to get married in your place of worship, it’s a good idea to talk to your officiant, first. Most faiths have rules about what a marriage ceremony includes, how long it takes, and when it can be scheduled. Here are a few tips to get you started!

Get a Marriage License

Bottom line: if you’re getting married, you need a legal license. This is not provided by your church; you have to get one from your county or city office. You must verify your identity, eligibility to get married (age and single status), and pay the fees. There may be waiting period and/or window in which you may use the license, so schedule your visit accordingly.

Schedule Ahead of Time

If you’re Roman Catholic, for example, you may not be allowed to marry during Lent or Easter weekend. While some parishes may not prohibit marriages on Sundays, most churches will not cancel regular worship sessions to schedule a wedding. You’ll want to check with your church and find out what days are available ahead of time.

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Consider Your Partner

Interfaith religions and same-sex marriages have been a point of contention over the years. Some religions frown upon marrying someone from another faith and/or require conversion; others are neutral and allow spouses to keep their religions. Some churches/temples only approve weddings after interviewing both people—even couples of the same faith. Some churches recognize civil unions and others do not; the spiritual aspect of marriage also varies between faiths. Be aware of the rules about marriage, children, and divorce before you walk down the aisle!

Include Ceremony Traditions

Religious traditions can add beauty and significance to your wedding. There’s usually a reading from scripture along with words about marriage and/or the couple from the officiant. A ring exchange is typical. Depending on your faith, your ceremony may include a mass, communion, and/or audience participation (sitting, standing, readings, or prayer). Folk traditions such as jumping the broom or handfasting may or may not be allowed, so ask your officiant. Some faiths encourage special practices before or after the ceremony, such as periods of seclusion or traditional dances.

Follow Venue Rules

If you’re getting married in a church, the reception will be in a separate space. There may also be rules about who is allowed to attend the ceremony (for example, if you’re Mormon getting married in a temple). Some venues allow lighting a unity candle and others do not. Jewish weddings are often held outside under a chuppah. Churches may limit your choice of music; a specific dress code may also be required. Don’t assume, however, that you must cover your shoulders or hair. Different parishes espouse different traditions, so check with your local house of worship for specifics.

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Weddings comprise a meaningful part of our culture. Talk to your partner and discuss how your families feel about a wedding that does (or doesn’t) include traditions belonging to a specific faith.

Decide which practices are important to you, and which ones you’d rather leave out. Ask your religious officiant for more guidance, so you can plan a wedding that honors your beliefs and feels right for you. Happy planning!

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More Resources:

http://www.brides.com/story/essential-details-planning-religious-wedding-at-house-of-worship

http://bridalguide.com/planning/wedding-ceremony-traditions/religious-wedding-ceremony-guide

https://www.theknot.com/content/interfaith-wedding-planning-tips

https://www.theknot.com/content/civil-ceremony-basics

https://www.theknot.com/content/marriage-license-basics

10 Really Good Reasons to Have a Christmas Wedding

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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.

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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.

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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!

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Happy Holidays!
XOXO, Bel Aire Bridal

Fabulous Winter Style Trends for 2017 Weddings

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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.

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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.

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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/

Giving Thanks: The Absolute Best Favors for Wedding Guests

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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

8 Essentials for the Destination Bride

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Happy first day of summer! If you’re going away to elope or hosting a fantastic wedding weekend party, preparation is everything. Make sure you do these eight things to make your dreams come true!

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Make a List

Ever go on a trip and realize you forgot something important? It’s usually something small, like a hair brush or tampons or your bathing suit—but these things can greatly impact your comfort level.

Create a list of everything you’ll need to pack for the wedding, and double-check. This is not the time to underpack or think “it’ll be fine.” This is your special day! Everything won’t be perfect, but being prepared will get it pretty close.

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Protect Your Gear

Keep your wedding gown in a garment bag at all times, and hang it away from pets or small children. Safely store your wedding day jewelry, headpiece, garter, undergarments, shoes, and veil. It’s helpful to keep these in a pocket of the garment bag—or in a separate travel box that will keep everything accounted for. Do not iron your veil. To get out wrinkles, you can lightly steam it or hang it for a few days and they will fall out.

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Have Backups

Accidents happen. If you’ve seen any wedding movie ever, you’ve seen the bride tear her veil, spill wine all over her dress, lose her shoes to the dog, or drop her ring in the shower. Hopefully none of these perils befall you! But if anything does go wrong, it helps to have a backup LWD, hair clip, and pair of flats. You can wear these items on your honeymoon, and you’ll feel better knowing you won’t be walking down the aisle in jeans.

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Use a Host

Your wedding day will be a whirlwind of events. It’s difficult to live in the moment and enjoy yourself if guests are constantly asking questions, or if you have to stop and pay the photographer before they leave, or if you have to find out who is double parked. Designate someone else—be it your MOH or wedding planner—to act as the gracious host. Let them solve problems so you can relax and just enjoy being the bride!

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Emergency Medical Info

Emergencies happen, even at weddings. Whether your fiancé steps on a rattlesnake or your relative falls on the dance floor, you should know who to call. Even if nothing goes wrong on the wedding day, you might require medical help on the honeymoon. Keep your information with you, bring extra medication, and let your insurance companies know that you are traveling. Make sure you are covered abroad.

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Vendors Who Can Be There

Many popular destination wedding spots will suggest (or require) vendors they work with on a regular basis. Make sure you are comfortable with these businesses and plan the details with them ahead of time. Get their contact information. If someone isn’t reliable or doesn’t understand your vision, consider working with someone else. Especially when you’re far from home, it helps to have vendors you can trust to be there.

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Do Paperwork in Advance

Do you both have updated passports? Have you changed your name(s)? Have you purchased a license and hired someone who can perform your wedding? A lot of rules apply to marriage ceremonies, so make sure the two of you can travel and get married in your chosen destination. There may be residency requirements or additional fees. Be prepared so you don’t have to sign at the court house later.

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Pick a Style

Destination weddings are fun because they can be so much more intimate and carefree than a traditional wedding ceremony. Smaller weddings are easier to style, too! Transform your bridal look with a destination style—whether it’s glamorous, trendy, romantic, vintage-inspired, or beachy. Choosing a theme will help make your wedding feel just a bit more special and make it stand out from the rest of the celebratory weekend.

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Are you hosting a destination wedding? Check out our My Bridal Style: Destination for bridal styling ideas, and follow us on Instagram for the latest industry trends.

How To Get Hitched, Rustic Style

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Rustic. Glamping. Country Chic. You’ve seen these buzz words for wedding themes all over Pinterest—but how can you realistically bring your vision to life?

A lot of details go into creating a cohesive wedding theme; planning can get overwhelming in a hurry! Here are 10 easy ways to style your very own rustic wedding with minimal effort.

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Wooden Signs

Wooden signs are easy to make and can be used to label food and drinks, direct wedding guests to different areas, preclude the bride’s walk down the aisle, or post a favorite Bible verse or romantic quote. You can hang signs to posts, use them in centerpieces, or just hold them for photos.

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Mason Jars

Cheap and available, mason jar centerpieces are great for holding flowers, candles, or favors. You can wrap them in burlap or lace and secure the decorations with glue or string. This is a relatively easy project that you can do in a few days.

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Burlap & Lace

No rustic theme is complete without burlap. Inexpensive and easily obtainable, burlap and lace can be used for chair covers, table cloths, seat covers, aisle runners, bouquets, centerpieces, and even your invitations. Get creative!

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Rustic Invitations

Your invitations will set the stage for the rest of your wedding. Your website and save-the-dates should also reflect your theme: add details like burlap, lace, twine, fireflies, mason jars, leaves, or lanterns. Pick invites in neutral tones if you haven’t decided on your wedding colors yet.

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Lanterns

Lighting is what creates an extra-special, romantic ambiance. For a rustic theme, lanterns or mason jars with candles beautifully light up walkways and table tops. You can also string lights inside your venue or from poles/trees to illuminate the reception area.

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Barn Venue

For a rustic theme, you should pretty much get married in a barn. Use the family farm or rent a wedding barn for the ceremony; you can also host a backyard wedding or choose a sprawling estate. Be sure that your venue has plenty of natural wood paneling or flooring to create that rustic look you’re going for.

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Horses

If you’re a horse girl, snap a few photos with your equestrian pal to include them in your wedding day memories. You can take pictures near a pasture fence, or supervise pony rides for children in attendance. It’s a nice gesture to provide outdoor games or entertainment for your guests while you’re taking family portraits.

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Outdoor Reception

A rustic theme is great for summer weddings, as you’ll enjoy more daylight hours and can have camp fires when it gets dark. Furnish your reception space with bales of hay or benches so guests have somewhere to sit besides the grass. Provide blankets or space heaters if it might get cold. You can set up an outdoor stage for the music and dancing. Add s’mores and a bar for a fantastic reception!

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Cowboy Boots

Let’s talk about your bridal ensemble, shall we? This is totally the time to rock your favorite cowgirl boots—or, if you prefer, a pair of burlap sandals or woven flats. This simple touch adds a fun element to your wedding day look, and you won’t have to change your shoes for dancing.

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Gold Accessories

The rustic-chic theme celebrates nature-inspired beauty. Complement your bridal gown with accessories to match! Choose a blush or gold flower comb or leafy metallic headpiece to go with your veil for the ceremony; then switch to a sparkly design for the reception. Check out our Fall 2016 Collection, Classic Veils, and Belts/Jewelry pages to see all of our latest designs.

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Are you planning a rustic wedding? Follow us on Pinterest for more ideas, and share your photos with us on Instagram using #BelAireBridal!

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The Best of Bridal: Styles of the Past 100 Years

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We absolutely love this amazing video published by Glamour! Showcasing the lovely engagement rings and popular bridal looks of the past 100 years, this stylish shoot features all kinds of pretty.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkBvN17Ww10

Which decade is your favorite? We adored them all, so here’s the scoop on how to style your very own vintage-inspired look!Family-000077062903_Medium.jpg

1910s

At the turn of the century, modest Edwardian gowns and simple rings were in vogue. Think parasols, bustiers, stockings—the whole nine yards! Veils during this era were long and simple, often accompanied by flowered hats or floral garlands.

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Our Top Picks: Style this look with a vintage gown à la Downton Abbey and classic accessories like headpiece 6410, veil V7198, and bracelet BC141.

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1920s

This decade was all about opulence and fashion-forward sparkle. Thanks to the Gatsby movie a few years back, modern brides inspired by this jazzy era have plenty of options! Geometric designs, beautiful beading, and Art Deco lines create a fabulous ‘20s theme.

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Our Top Picks: Style this look with a jazzy, beaded sheath gown and sparkly accessories. Try on headpiece 6351, a clip like 6405, and a tie veil such as 6354.

1930s

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Due to the economic crash of the Great Depression, this era featured much more modest wedding attire. Suit sets and blazers came into style, though intricately beaded cap veils were still popular.

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Our Top Picks: Petite bow clip 6607, Chantilly lace cap 6364, and bracelet BC130.

1940s

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Much like the previous decade, dress suit sets were popular and often worn by military brides. Modest, high-necked wedding dresses and long veils were in style. Flower headpieces, pearls, and lace gowns grew in popularity.

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Our Top Pics: Style a look of endearing romance with pearl crown headpiece 6491, tie lace veil 6444, and pearl jewelry set J2094.

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1950s

The economic upswing of the ‘50s meant more extravagant wedding attire! Stand-out examples include Jacqueline Kennedy’s beautiful off-the-shoulder bridal gown and decadent cap veil, as well as Grace Kelly’s high neck lace gown and lace trimmed veil.

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Our Top Picks: Style this look with a period-inspired French net veil like 6225 or a dramatic cathedral veil like V7179C. Add pearl-encrusted bracelet BC139.

1960s

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Diverse fashions in the ‘60s offered brides everything from long lace sleeves to full-skirted princess gowns to modest going-away suits. Some brides wore hats, some wore flowers, and some went with multi-tiered veils.

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Our Top Picks: A dreamy veil with lots of volume like V7164, Venise lace flower clip 6533, or drop earrings EA227.

1970s

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Spread the love! Bohemian looks were all the rage (and are still loved by the modern boho-chic bride). Floral lace veils, unstructured dresses with lots of layers, and flower headbands were popular.

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Our Top Picks: Stick a pretty flower on lace headwrap 6378, wear a lovely lace-trimmed veil like V7322, or try on a sparkling vine headband like 6647.

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The poufy sleeves, crazy colors, and big volume of the 1980s left a lasting impression. Over-the-top veils and voluminous gowns with long trains became popular after Princess Diana’s 1981 wedding. Opulent ceremonies with lots of lace and floral accents became the big thing.

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Our Top Picks: Re-create a retro look with an eye-catching headpiece like 6324, a dramatic cathedral veil like V7196C, and bling-worthy jewelry like BC102.

1990s

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Sleek and slim became popular in the ‘90s, with satin gowns, spaghetti straps, and simple silhouettes taking over. Crisp updos and minimal makeup were preferred to create an elegant, refined look. Brides began to incorporate colored sashes or ombré gowns.

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Our Top Picks: A princess tiara like 6304, a ribbon edge veil like V9999, and dainty jewelry set J2035.

2000s

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In the past decade, strapless princess-style dresses and dramatic skirts ruled the runways. Fit and flare lace gowns and destination wedding looks became popular. Fingertip veils grew in demand, while unique accessories personalized each bride’s ensemble.

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Our Top Picks: A beaded edge veil like V7301, sparkly headpiece like 6587, and a beautifully embellished belt like BT030.

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Welcome to The Pinterest Bride era! Today, customization is everything. Lace sleeves, creatively embellished backs, and whimsical layers offer brides plenty of options. Designers offer gowns in a range of colors. Beaded patterns, removable overskirts, dress separates, and new laces have taken center stage. Cathedral veils are back.

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Our Top Picks: A dreamy foldover cathedral veil like V7234, nature-inspired headpiece like 6605, and shoulder jewelry like SH209.

2020s

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What do you think the next decade will bring? A return to the sleek and sparkly styles of the 1920s, a throwback to retro designs from the ‘70s or ‘80s, or something entirely new?

Want to see more lovely vintage-inspired looks?

Browse our My Bridal Style: Vintage board for ideas!

 

5 Hot Summer Date Ideas for Couples

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Just started dating? Engaged? Married for a while? No matter how old your relationship is, having fun together is important. Give your summer a romantic twist with these fabulous date ideas.

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Make a Splash

The beach is always a good idea. Pack a bikini and check out the ocean nearest you! If you don’t live on the coast or it’s freezing even in July, no problem! Head to natural hot springs, a water park, the lake, or a close river. Snorkeling, river rafting, body boarding, canoeing, and jet skiing are all great summer activities. Getting wet and wild is fun for everyone.

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Spice Things Up

Going out to dinner is fun, but you can shake things up by cooking an incredible meal and staying in. And taking something out of a box doesn’t count. This is a do-it-yourself, I-had-to-use-a-cookbook, start-from-scratch sort of deal. Choose a recipe you’ve always wanted to try, or put a gourmet twist on your partner’s favorite meal! Add some wine and a delicious dessert, and you have the makings of an unforgettable evening.

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Give It a Twist

Dancing is an intimate, sensual activity just made for date night. Check out a local studio and find a lesson series that sounds fun to both of you! If you want a formal ballroom dance that gives you a chance to get dressed up, learn to waltz. To loosen up, take swing dance or salsa lessons! If you’re up for the challenge, an exotic Latin dance like tango or rumba will heat up your relationship in a hurry.

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Hit The Streets

Summer is festival season. Get off the couch and take advantage of local activities! Craft fairs, fireworks, strawberry festivals, lavender festivals, carnivals, chili cook-offs, Saturday markets, street jazz, outdoor concerts, movies in the park, and art walks are just a few ideas. Find out what your city has to offer and start saving the dates!

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Challenge and Conquer

Longer days and warmer weather gives us the opportunity to enjoy nature. Make this the summer you Did That Thing You Always Wanted To Do—and share the experience with your partner! Plan a cruise or road trip, train for a marathon or triathlon, participate in an adventure run series, visit a national park, hike a mountain, camp in the wilderness, or take up a new sport! Seize the opportunity to have a spectacular adventure together.

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What are you looking forward to doing this summer? Share your favorite date ideas!

5 Reasons You Should Have a Spring Wedding

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Trying to set a date? Say “I do” to a gorgeous spring wedding! We are absolutely in love with the romantic stylings available to spring brides. Here are our five favorite reasons for kicking off your marriage between March and May!

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Pretty Flowers Everywhere

We’re talking flower petals in the aisle, flower curtains adorning the walls, tall vases of flowers, flowers hanging from the ceiling, flowers overflowing from your bouquet. Spring is naturally the best season to use fresh blooms in your décor. You can choose seasonal varieties to keep costs down (as much as possible) and indulge in a sensationally romantic ambiance.

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Precious Flower Girls

There’s nothing cuter than a little flower girl in her princess-style dress, sporting a halo of tiny flowers in her hair! (Unless, of course, you tie a floral wreath around your dog and parade him/her down the aisle as the ring-bearer.) Flowers as adornments go back centuries, and this lovely little touch adds fairy-tale charm to your theme.

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Beautiful Bridesmaids

Can this year’s floral gowns be any more romantic? We’re swooning over the incredible floral bridesmaids’ dresses popping up in spring weddings. You can mix and match pretty pastels and flower patterns for a coordinated yet stylish look that will be unique to your wedding.

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Romantic Color Schemes

Soft pastels paint a picture of subtle elegance and feminine beauty. Serenity, blush, champagne, peach, nude, lavender, and sage are perfect for spring weddings. Add a pop of bold color such as marsala or navy for a striking effect, or go for a romantic watercolor look with mostly neutrals.

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Amazing Bridal Florals

Spring is the time to indulge in flower accessories. Options abound for a stunningly romantic look: style your hair with a pretty floral halo, soft petal comb, golden metallic bloom, or sparkly rhinestone design. Consider pairing a veil embroidered with floral designs or edged with lace for a head-over-heels gorgeous ensemble.

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Are you planning a spring wedding? Let us know your styling ideas!