4 Ways to Style Your Destination Beach Wedding

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

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

TUMBLING WAVES & SUBTLE BLING

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

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

HAIR-TAMING HEADBAND

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

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

DELICATE FLORALS

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

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

THE WHOLE PACKAGE

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

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

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

How will you style your beach wedding?

Blush & Bling Romance Blog

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6110)

We headed down to a local dance studio with our hearts set on capturing all the romance, grace, and beauty that comes from styling a blush photo inspiration shoot! With gorgeous gowns by Truvelle bridal, we paired up a variety of glittering headpieces and dreamy veils. The result? Absolute perfection.

If you’re choosing a blush gown for your wedding or reception, scroll down to check out some gorgeous styling ideas. The rose gold sequin and soft lace dresses created opportunities for two very different looks, and both left us absolutely smitten.

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6110)

First, we styled side-swept loose curls, featuring a gorgeous rhinestone headband glittering with tiny metallic leaves and flowers. Style 6110 is so easy to wear, creating a look of effortless beauty.

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6524)

Next, we turned our attention to a more minimalist look. If you want just a subtle hint of sparkle, we recommend a narrow hair vine such as 6524. This nature-inspired piece adds the lightest, most delicate touch to any hairstyle and coordinates beautifully with a garden-inspired or boho-chic look.

If vines aren’t your style, check out a narrow headband such as 6040 or 6388. This vintage-inspired pieces are simply stunning and can be worn at a bridal shower or engagement party, too!

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6525)

Florals are hugely popular this year, and there’s nothing lovelier than a soft organza flower headpiece with sparkling rhinestone accents. Style 6525 combines the best of both worlds and looks absolutely dreamy with an already-romantic lace gown.

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It helps to have the big picture in mind when you’re planning your accessories. Are you going for a stunning and glamorous look, with sequins and bold jewelry? Are you a lace and veil type girl? Choose your headpiece to enhance your personal style!

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In this case, we paired a simple beaded blush headband 8662 with Truvelle’s sparkling sequin-dipped gown for an eye-catching, modern bride. For the more classic girl putting a spin on tradition, the plunging lace v-neck gown grows exponentially more feminine with a sweet floral headpiece and simple organza-lined veil. Whether you’re dancing the night away in a reception hall (or in this case, a ballerina’s dance studio) or saying “I do” at the beach, these versatile looks are straight out of a dream.

Tell us, which combo is your favorite? How will you style your hair and accessories for the big day?

Want more? Check out My Bridal Style Romantic and the Fall 2015 Collection for accessories inspiration. You might also like our We ♥ Blush and Romantic Weddings boards on Pinterest, and follow us on Instagram for style updates.

XO,

Bel Aire Bridal

How To Personalize Your Look

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

Your bridal look is so much more than a white dress. The accessories you choose create a total ensemble that expresses your personality in the most beautiful way. Belts, bracelets, earrings, and headpieces create a magical feeling of elegance that makes your wedding wardrobe feel truly special.

With that in mind, we are so excited to showcase some of our most enchanting bits of sparkly. With rhinestone-encrusted bridal combs and glittering bracelets, this pretty, posh selection evokes a theme of opulent glamour. Scroll to discover your favorites!

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6503)

There’s something so charmingly graceful about these old-world style rhodium designs. Swirls and curls and glittering round rhinestones create a dazzling accent for a soft lace dress or ethereal tulle ball gown.

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6407)

If you’re the bride seeking a touch of sparkle for her lovely locks, this stunning hair jewelry combines silver leaves and dramatic rhinestone accents in a totally boho-chic design.

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style BC141)

Slip a pretty, nature-inspired design onto your wrist for those close-up bouquet shots. A bit of bling adds unexpected beauty.

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(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 1965)

Feel beautiful and feminine on the big day wearing a soft feather and organza flower in your hair. Lustrous pearls and sparkling rhinestones add a touch of glamour to this sweet accent piece.

CY9A2934(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

Tell us, how will you personalize your bridal look?

Check out our My Bridal Style pages for more inspiration on the theme that best expresses your style, and feel free to peruse our latest collection for more eye-catching and utterly romantic designs.

Product Spotlight: Cathedral Veil V7176C

(via Roma Bea Images for Bel Aire Bridal)

Elegantly embroidered and beaded scalloped edge veil

A cathedral veil is traditional for many religious weddings; however, it is also one of the most stunningly romantic accessories a bride can choose for her big day! Gorgeous and graceful, cathedrals add dramatic wedding-day allure; there’s no other occasion in life that calls for such a long veil. Modern veils range from ethereal, cut-edge styles that float like wisps of cloud to luxuriously embellished statement pieces. Pearls, rhinestones, embroidery, lace, and crystals decorate many types of veils—but turn the most heads on an eye-catching cathedral.

Our features lavish silver embroidered flowers with a delicate, scalloped beaded edge. Silver bugle beads, tiny rhinestones, and miniature pearls infuse this design with uncommonly detailed beauty.

Style Me
Elegant brides seeking an extravagant yet feminine look will love the sweeping beauty of V7176C. Gracefully balancing modern design with old-fashioned motifs, this elaborate style embellishes a plain gown or frames an already-stunning dress with decadence to match.
V7176C suggests a tone of luxury. Coordinated with sumptuous accessories, it completes a theme of regal elegance. When enhancing a simpler look, however, this veil takes the spotlight. Classically bridal, the floral design complements plain or embroidered gowns and understated jewelry.

(via Roma Bea Images for Bel Aire Bridal)

Match Me
This cathedral veil is best paired with a gown featuring a long train. We love this piece coordinated with a sparkling rhinestone or beaded belt like BT010 or a floral belt such as BT040.

While this veil may be worn alone as a statement, a touch of sparkle gorgeously complements your whole look. We recommend pinning a small accent underneath in your hairstyle, or wearing a headpiece after you remove the veil for your reception! Cathedral veils are most appropriate for your walk down the aisle and photos, though you may bustle them for the after-party.

My Perfect Wedding
Formal, feminine brides will be drawn to V7176C, while brides styling more casual looks will find less-embellished designs more attractive. This elaborate veil best complements an elegant theme.

(via Roma Bea Images for Bel Aire Bridal)

Love This Look
Love this design and want to see similar accessories?

Check out the Cathedral Veils section on our website for more heart-fluttering styles!

Florals in Gold & Blush

Top Signs He Might Propose

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(via Shutterstock)


Are you ready to tie the knot? You might be wondering, is he?

It’s a good idea to enjoy your relationship as it is and discuss any unmet needs together. However, if you know he’s the One and are wondering if you should be dressing up a bit more on date night, consider the following signs that he’s about to drop down on one knee!

You’ve been together between two and three years
Not that this means anything in specific relationships; some people are together for a long time without being married! You could have good reasons for getting engaged earlier or later (for example, career plans, desire for financial stability, or personal beliefs). Statistically, however, many couples get engaged after they’ve been dating for a couple years.

He’s cleaned up his place or has recently moved
If he’s no longer using his Xbox screen as a night light, chances are he feels that you are more important than his bachelor habits. Efforts to make you feel comfortable and at home are a sign of caring and commitment.

You’ve met each other’s parents
Increasing numbers of women want to know about their engagement before anyone else, but it is historically traditional for men to ask parents for their permission or blessing. Similarly, he’ll want to be sure that you know his family and where he’s coming from.

Your ring size and preferred metals are suddenly relevant
Guys don’t really care about the jewelry you’re wearing—most compliments range from, “You look beautiful today” to “You look so pretty in that color.” If he’s suddenly very interested in your favorite metals or shapes of rocks, it’s a sure sign that he’s starting to shop.

He’s acting weird
Many guys are still into the surprise proposal. With a plethora of videos and online photos posting evidence of creative and outright over-the-top gestures, there’s a lot of pressure on him to make it memorable, romantic, personal, and fun. Also, he’s supposed to covertly make sure you look nice for the professional photographer he’s paid to hide in the bushes. Plus he’s expected to arrange for your best friends and/or family to congratulate you at a surprise party afterwards. Oh, and there’s the small caveat that, no matter how sure he is of your relationship, he’s still asking a question—and is waiting to see if you’ll say yes.

Wouldn’t you be acting a little nervous and weird, too?

***

Are you ready to say, “Yes”? What is your ideal proposal? Would you be disappointed if he picked a ring without your approval? Let us know!

Brief History of The Wedding Veil

(via Roma Bea Images for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6251)

Wondering whether or not you should wear a veil for your wedding day? As it stands now, the veil is a fashion statement. Whether or not you’d like to wear one is entirely personal preference.

However, people often believe the bridal veil symbolizes something—because throughout the ages, various cultures have attached religious or social meanings to it. We’ll cover the most well-known connotations of wedding veils—from protection against evil to a display of extravagance!

Protection Against Evil

In Ancient Greece and Rome, the veil was originally flame-colored to scare off evil spirits. Many works of literature cite the veil as a source of protection—and since veils, hats and scarves have historically been used in defense against sun, wind, exposure, or even mosquitoes, this isn’t too much of a stretch.

Many wedding traditions have developed out of efforts to protect the bride. A few (such as the bride standing to the groom’s left, so his sword hand is free) were aimed at shielding her from being kidnapped by other suitors. Most practices, however, protected the bride against evil spirits that might be lurking under the floorboards or waiting to attack during the wedding. Even today, Middle Eastern brides still paint themselves with henna to avoid the Evil Eye.

Continue reading Brief History of The Wedding Veil

Reasons to Love a Cathedral Veil

Want to know if a cathedral length veil is a good option (or even an option) for your wedding? Check out our list and weigh the pros and cons of this particular style, find out why so many brides are choosing it, and decide if it’s right for you.

Tradition

Back in the day, a wedding veil symbolized purity and protection. This stylish fashion has been worn by brides since Roman times and has been customized in every era. From long lace masterpieces to short little blushers, the veil is a crucial part of the bride’s ensemble. A cathedral veil has a time-honored history and gets its name from—you guessed it—the length that brides wear for religious weddings in cathedrals. Modern brides are wearing this look indoors and outside.

On Trend

Cathedral veils have recently stolen the spotlight as featured in celebrity weddings. High-profile brides in 2014 popularized this gorgeous length with extravagant, romantic, and elegant ensembles that accentuated each woman’s beauty with a unique—and very long—veil.You can take this fashion and make it your own by selecting a cathedral veil that complements your gown and expresses your personality.

Enhance Your Gown

If you’re wearing a short dress for your ceremony, don’t wear a cathedral veil. Shorter veils such as French net, shoulder, and elbow designs are best for gowns that hit at the ankle or knee. Cathedral veils beautifully complement any formal ensemble: mermaid dresses, fit and flare silhouettes, ball gowns, and even sheath dresses.

You can choose a wide veil for added drama; multiple layers for soft romance; a narrow veil for a sleek appearance; a flat mantilla for traditional beauty; or a foldover for simple elegance.

Reception Change

Are you dancing the night away in a short dress? A romantic, long veil is designed to enhance your walk down the aisle; you can either bustle your cathedral or switch it out for a pretty headpiece or shorter veil for your reception. This gives you the perfect excuse to select something fun and different for the after party!

Romance

A cathedral veil transforms your wedding look with magical romance. From your walk to the altar to portrait photos, the dramatic beauty of a long veil will enhance your wedding in ways that only you will ever know. Some couples do a first look—others take fun photos with friends, style gorgeous still-life shots, or take private boudoir photos. Many women don’t feel like a bride until they put on their veil. Imagine a veil so beautiful and dramatic that you can’t stop staring until it is literally tucked into your hair. Romantic? We think so.

YOMO

You only live once, right? You only marry once, too!
Seize the moment. This is your only opportunity to wear a veil. Why not select a dramatic, ethereal, and utterly fantastic cathedral design? Every day is precious—and your wedding day should be blissfully unforgettable. Choose a style that makes you look and feel amazing.

***
In love with cathedral veils? Check out our Cathedral Veils page for some ideas about how to enhance your look for the big day. Still not convinced? Every bride should select the style she loves the most—check out our other veil lengths and designs for more options. Beaded Veils | Classic Veils | 
French Net & Face Veils | 
Embroidered Veils

Tell us what you think! What type of veil will you wear for your wedding and why?

Happy Fourth of July!

Bel Aire Bridal Fourth of July Post

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

Four 4th of July Wedding Must-Haves

Happy 4th of July weekend! To celebrate, here our top four must-haves for the 4th! If you’re getting married, congratulations! Planning for next year? Check out our Red, White & Bling inspiration board on Pinterest for more ideas.

Spectacular Fireworks

From sparklers to fireworks, your 4th of July wedding needs serious wow-factor. Celebrate in patriotic style with favors that literally go BANG! You can use non-smoking sparklers for your send-off, enjoy fireworks to start off your honeymoon getaway, or give sparkling favors that your guests can set off later.

Glitz & Glamour

Who says that a 4th of July wedding can’t be chic? Include a bit of bling and jazz up your look with glittering heels, dazzling earrings, or a shimmering headpiece. Celebrate with fantastic sparkle!

Red, White & Blue

Any 4th of July wedding wouldn’t be complete without a nod to the American colors. Choose bright bouquets or boutonnieres, festive attire for attendants, and patriotic decorations. You can go red, white, and blue on wedding desserts, too!

True Love

To make the day feel like YOUR wedding and not just a dressed-up celebration of the national holiday, incorporate personal touches—wear a non-traditional reception dress, a unique headpiece, or sentimental jewelry. Write a love letter to your future husband, take time alone together, and let the romance of your wedding day really sink in. Whether your celebration is formal or just fun, this is your special day. Capture every moment!

Bel Aire Bridal Fourth of July Post 2

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

Product Spotlight: Lace Veil V7175

(via Roma Bea Images for Bel Aire Bridal)

Your wedding is the most romantic day of your life. Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, and birthdays just don’t encompass the same life-changing excitement and romantic allure as a wedding. And, as an adult, you probably won’t wear an extravagant, gorgeous gown with lavish accessories on any other day! In short, your wedding is a unique opportunity to honor your love in an unabashedly romantic way.

Nothing expresses love quite like lace. Elegant, backed by hundreds of years of tradition, and timelessly gorgeous, this classic bridal material provides a look of feminine grace. Our V7175 Alençon lace veil infuses any bridal wardrobe with classic elegance. Ornate beading weaves through a gorgeous pattern of regal flowers with breathtaking romance.

Style Me
The symbol of bridal beauty, this exquisite scalloped Alençon lace mantilla sweeps over your locks with Old World grace. A waltz-length veil featuring generous Alençon lace, V7175 evokes a mood of romantic beauty.

Match Me
Ideally, you should match V7175 with a lace gown. If you are wearing a dress made from another material but love the idea of a lace-trimmed veil, be sure to choose lace accessories! For example, we highly recommend pairing V7175 with its sister headpiece, style 6456. Fall in love with an elaborate, embroidered lace and pearl floral headpiece blooming with classic beauty. Attached to an easy-wear clip, this lovely headpiece wraps your wedding-day hair with sprawling bridal flowers and leaves to complement a lace gown and pearl accessories.

(via KLK Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6456)

My Perfect Wedding
Romantic brides will love the feminine grace of V7175. Even if you’re not into pink peonies and soft candlelight, however, this classically pretty veil perfectly complements a lace gown. It also works well for any season of wedding. Whether you’re getting married in a church or on the beach, you’ll look stunning.

Love This Look
Love this design and want to see similar veils?

Check out the Lace Veils section on our website for more heart-fluttering styles!