7 Nature-Inspired Accessories for the Adventurous Bride

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Have you noticed the explosion of elopements and destination weddings on Pinterest?

It’s everywhere: adventurous young couples saying “I do” atop the slopes of misty mountains, on cliffs overlooking gorgeous ocean vistas, or at historic chapels in exotic locales.

We can’t help but think that this new trend of rugged, outdoorsy romance has something to do with a rekindled spirit of exploration—a yearning for far-flung destinations and once-in-a-lifetime moments.

So we selected a few accessories just for you jet-setting, camping-obsessed, trail-blazing brides! Inspired by nature and crafted with care, these special accents are designed to make you look and feel amazing as you embark on the greatest adventure of all.

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Pearl Inspiration Headband

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Style a free-spirited, of-the-moment bridal outfit with a glittering headband. Pretty faux pearls packed in a shimmering design add the perfect accent to your breeze-blown locks. Wear a cut edge veil for a whimsical, ethereal touch of romance.

You might like My Bridal Style: Trendy

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Siren’s Song Halo

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Top off your destination wedding outfit with a boho-luxe halo. This narrow rhinestone-studded band slips over your hair in a continuous design that may be worn alone or with a veil. Available in silver or rose gold, this gorgeous accent crowns your locks with exotic sparkle.

You might like My Bridal Style: Destination

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Walk in the Woods Clip

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Channel your inner goddess flaunting a leafy clip adorned with gilded leaves. This woodsy, nature-inspired design is available in silver or gold to match your other accessories. Style it in the back or on the side to show off an utterly enchanting hairstyle.

You might like My Bridal Style: Bohemian

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Graceful Weaving Headband

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Exuding sweet charm, this weaving tie garland features tiny metallic flowers, pearls, and rhinestones in a flexible design. Pairing perfectly with beachy gowns and ethereal skirts, this light headpiece tops off a romantic ensemble with delicate beauty. This style is available in silver or gold.

You might like My Bridal Style: Romantic

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Wanderlust Headband

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Feed your wanderlust and travel back to simpler times. Lavish your bridal locks with a gorgeous headband composed of gilded metallic leaves in a shimmering display. Available in silver or gold, this everlasting headpiece channels all the elegance of nature’s bounty.

You might like My Bridal Style: Vintage

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Beach Beauty Comb

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Getting married on an exotic beach? This lovely little comb slips into tousled tresses with perfect ease. Featuring glittering metallic flowers and freshwater pearls, this floral accent adds stunning sparkle. Pair it with pearl earrings or a bracelet for an ensemble you can rock again and again.

You might like My Bridal Style: Classic

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Unburied Treasure Halo

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Revel in rustic beauty with a shimmering metallic filigree and pearl halo. This radiant design sparkles in the sunlight, giving you a gorgeous glow. Add a cascading veil for that final once-in-a-lifetime accent, and pair it with jewelry to complete a stunning look.

You might like My Bridal Style: Glamorous  

Want to see more? Follow us on Instagram for all things beautiful and bridal!

10 Top-Selling Carryovers from Bridal Market

It’s that time of year again!

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We’ve just returned from Chicago Bridal Market and we’re so excited to share that our Fall 2017 Collection was a huge hit! Check back with us in a few weeks to see what made the cut—we’ll post our newest items on our website for all to see.

In the meantime, our most popular carryovers (favorites from past seasons) included stunning veils, pretty rose gold headpieces, and glittering clips and combs. Check out our Top 10 List and see what this year’s bridal shop owners loved the most!

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Rose Gold Comb 6202

This delightfully elegant bridal comb slips easily into an updo and is a quintessential accent for any bride. Combining pearls and rhinestones in a floral design, this match-everything design is super trendy in rose gold. Style it with pearl or rhinestone jewelry for the ultimate romantic look.

Rose Gold Halo 6505

Last year’s bohemian trend has evolved into a gorgeous, boho-luxe style in which brides adorn themselves with utterly elegant, unstructured designs. This lovely rose gold halo dovetails beautifully with a rustic style. Made for the modern bride, it looks great with or without a veil.

Rose Gold Belt 6518

Another hit in rose gold, our glittering metal filigree belt 6518 has been selling fast! This lovely rhinestone encrusted belt twirls in an elegant, vintage-inspired design that beautifully enhances any gown with panache. This style may also be worn as a headpiece.

Gold Tie Headband 6558

Our headpieces in luxurious yellow gold were hugely popular at market! This warm hue looks especially pretty with blush, champagne, and ivory gowns. This gorgeous tie headband is composed of tiny faux pearls and a metallic nature-inspired design of open leaves. Pair it with pearl or gold jewelry.

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Gold Flower Pins 1718

Romantic brides are still having a say in 2017. Right alongside bohemian fashions, feminine flower patterns are everywhere this season. These delightful pins feature everlasting, metallic blooms and add the perfect touch of elegance to any ensemble. They’re also available in silver.

Horsehair Edge Veil V7388

One of our most popular veils from last season, this lovely fingertip length design gracefully cascades with sheer elegance. The foldover top tier may be worn forward as a blusher or back for extra shape and style. Beautifully complementing a variety of gown silhouettes, this one’s a must-have.

Cushion Cut Bracelet BC134

Did you know we sell beautiful bridal jewelry? Our earrings and bracelets are more popular than ever this year! This design features cushion cut rhinestones with glittering pavé halos secured with a lobster clasp. Available in rose gold, gold, or silver, this bracelet beautifully finishes off any ensemble.

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Beaded Veil V7056

Shimmering with bugle beads, rhinestones, and crystals, this lovely design adds subtle glamour to any bridal ensemble. Available in ivory, white, diamond white, blush, champagne, and latte, this versatile veil style is popular year after year. It is even available in cathedral length!

Luxe Tulle Cathedral V7333C

Working with a Pinterest bride? There’s nothing more graceful than a light-as-air cathedral veil blowing in the breeze. Our luxe tulle cathedral veil features faux silk tulle in a beautiful cut edge design. This style complements just about any gown silhouette and is only available in ivory.

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Alençon Lace Cathedral V7034CX

You can’t beat classic, beautiful lace—our V7034 is number one time after time. This gorgeous cathedral design features a simple rolled edge at the top and floral Alençon lace along the curve. Bursting with romance, this bridal essential complements a variety of lace gowns with perfect elegance.

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Want to see more? If you’re a bridal retailer, be sure to come see us at New York Bridal Fashion Week. Follow us on Instagram for sneak peeks at our new collection, and check back on our website for updates soon!

 

5 Belts for Frosty Weddings

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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!

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Sparkling Silver Filigree & Tulle

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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.

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Vintage-Inspired Sparkle & Beadwork

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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!

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Sparkling Opal & Clear Rhinestones

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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.

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Organza Peonies & Alençon Lace

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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.

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Silver Beading & Rhinestone Embellishments

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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.

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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!

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

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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!

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Rhinestone-Packed Comb

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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.

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Opal Rhinestone Fascinator

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

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Rhinestone Cluster Headband

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

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Crystal & Rhinestone Tiara

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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.

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Sparkling Filigree Halo

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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.

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Rhinestone Flower Clip

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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.

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Rhinestone Appliqué Tie Headband

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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.

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Contoured Rhinestone Band

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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.

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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!

 

8 Reasons to Get Engaged This Winter

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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.

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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.

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

6 Swoonworthy Bridal Sashes

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Finding the perfect dress is a bit like finding the One: you just know.

Styling your wedding dress perfectly involves creativity. Sometimes, you wish it had a little bit more something. More lace, more bling, different straps. One easy way to transform a design into your dream gown is by adding a bridal sash!

Our lovely belts may be sewn directly onto the dress or tied in the back. This elegant accessory adds sparkle, waist definition, beauty, and originality to your overall look. Check out our top six picks for the upcoming wedding season!

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Romantic Peonies & Lace Sash

Nothing says romance like flowers. Style a gorgeous, unforgettable bridal look with lavish fabric peony flowers featuring sparkling rhinestone centers. A touch of Alençon lace adds feminine flourish to this lovely design. This sash ties in the back on wide satin ties. One size fits most.

You might like My Bridal Style: Romantic.

Check out the matching peony hair clip 6435.

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Elegant Silver Scrolls Belt

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Add vintage-inspired sparkle to your waistline. Silver embroidered swirls and dazzling rhinestones create an eye-catching, elegant accent fit for a princess. This design ties in the back on folded organza ribbon ties. One size fits most.

You might like My Bridal Style: Vintage.

Add a swirling rhinestone headband like 6688.

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Sparkling Ethereal Organza Tie

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Bedazzle your bridal gown with a sparkling organza sash. Intricate silver beading and small round rhinestones on a cut out pattern of embellished ovals melt into the background of your dress with sheer beauty. This design ties in the back on organza ribbons. One size fits most.

You might like My Bridal Style: Trendy.

Add a delicately wired, sparkly hair vine like 6657.

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Want to see more?

Check out our Belts page or follow us on Instagram for styling updates!

Five Reasons to Wear a Bridal Belt

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

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

MAKE IT YOUR OWN

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

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

WAIST DEFINITION 

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

SPARKLE, SPARKLE, SPARKLE 

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

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

BOW BACK

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

BALANCE IS BEAUTIFUL

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

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

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

Social Media Engagement

(via Bel Aire Bridal Instagram)

First of all, congratulations on your engagement! We hope it was memorable and romantic—and that the ring he picked out fits your personality perfectly. If you’re following an engagement checklist, you have probably celebrated and shared the amazing news with close family and friends. Now it’s time to tell the world. With social media transforming the way we communicate, we’ve created a quick guide to the easiest ways to make a splash with your announcement, stay organized during the wedding-planning process, and create the celebration of your dreams.


Instagram

Here’s your first stop on the way to fame. Snap a selfie of that gorgeous rock on your finger! Make sure the ring has been cleaned and your nails are manicured. Some brides opt to show a bit of sleeve or capture something else (such as your future groom, or the proposal spot) in the background.

Pinterest

This web site is more for getting ideas than posting photos, but it’s an excellent resource. Now that you’re officially counting down to your marriage, go ahead and explore the wide world of weddings! From gorgeous gowns to photography ideas for your veil, inspiration is just one click away. This site also hosts a ton of ring pics, so you can see how to capture a gorgeous still-life photo of your new bling.

Facebook

If you have a FB account, change your status to “Engaged.” It’s a small but surprisingly thrilling act. Next, post a picture of the ring—the one of it on your finger, or a creatively styled still-life—and write a short paragraph about how you felt when he proposed. Then just sit back and watch the “congrats” pour in!

Twitter

Whether or not you wish to tweet your engagement is your business. If you do, use an amazing photo of your bling and make sure you time it right. Since tweets are so short, you won’t get particularly meaningful comments back, but it’s a good way to broadcast your news to followers, quick!

Wedding Website

Setting up a wedding website is essential to your sanity and provides your future guests with an information platform. You don’t have to fill it all in right now; once you have a date or even a vague theme, you can add details. Wedding websites also offer great planning resources and usually include a page to post your registry and schedule. Popular sites include www.mywedding.com and www.theknot.com, but you have a ton of options.

FaceTime, YouTube, or Skype

Are you living in a different state from your immediate family, or did you get engaged while traveling abroad? No problem. If your husband-to-be was enterprising enough to hire a videographer to capture your engagement, you can upload it to YouTube for friends back home to enjoy! If not, you can still arrange a video chat with the family to break the exciting news. Make it fun and see how long it takes them to notice the ring!

Hashtags

A ton of people use hashtags to share photos. While this is a brilliant, easy way to share pictures of everything from the engagement to honeymoon, be aware that hashtags are not private. Anyone can download your pictures, so be sure you don’t mind before you choose one for your wedding! #Love #BelAireBridal #Wedding

Sharing Apps

A few businesses have developed wedding apps (such as WedPics or Appy Couple) that allow you to share pics and information more privately than by using hashtags. Some are free and some require you to sign up and pay a fee—but the nice thing is that you can selectively broadcast your big news, organize plans, share photos, and order prints all from one place.

Sharing is caring. What sites are you using to announce your engagement? Tell us about your social media strategy for the big day!