10 Things To Be Thankful For On Your Wedding Day

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You’ll spend months planning for the big day, but you won’t believe how quickly the ceremony and reception will fly by! In the spirit of Thanksgiving, remember to stop, smell the roses, and enjoy these 10 things when the time comes to say “I do.”

The Weather

Good or bad, the weather will impact your special day. Sunshine adds a cheerful glow to your photos—rain is good luck! Have fun and make the most of the season in which you marry.

Your Best Girl

This might be your maid of honor, a close relative, or a cherished friend. When there’s a last-minute crisis, she’s there for you. Let her know you appreciate her support!

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Delicious Food

You specially planned out the whole menu. Enjoy it! Whatever meal you serve at your wedding will always have a special place in your heart (or perhaps your stomach).

The Bar

Whether you need to drown out embarrassing comments from relatives or just want to have a good time, relaxing with a few drinks is a well-earned privilege of the bride and groom.

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Your Grandparents

If they hadn’t fallen in love, your parents wouldn’t have been born (and neither would you). Be thankful for them, wherever they are; they made your story possible.

Tasty Treats 

Your wedding cake is a big deal! Unless you don’t like cake, in which case the lovely little goodies you serve instead will provide a much-needed sugar rush during the reception.

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Hired Help

From the wedding planner to the photographer, everyone who takes part in your wedding relieves you of responsibility. The less you have to handle the day of, the more you can enjoy getting married!

Your Parents

They helped shape you as a person and taught you how to recognize a good partner. Take an opportunity to thank them for all the wonderful things they’ve done in your life.

The Guests

Your friends have played nearly as important a role in your life as your family. It’s a blessing to have people you care about there to watch you say “I do” to a new future.

Your Groom

Above all, be grateful that you found true love—not everyone is so lucky! It is a rare and beautiful thing to cultivate a relationship like yours. Cherish it with all your heart.

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Tell us, what are you thankful for?

Are you a Thanksgiving bride?

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Thinking of planning your wedding around a holiday theme? If you love food, family, and warm, fuzzy feelings, perhaps a Thanksgiving celebration is right for you! Read on to see our top ten reasons you should tie the knot on this late autumn feast day.

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You Are Family Oriented

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to bring family together, and many people plan to travel, anyway. The long holiday weekend gives relatives an opportunity to catch up and friends more time to have fun! Just be sure to let loved ones know far in advance to reserve your wedding date, because flight costs go up this time of year.

Anniversaries Are Important

Want to reserve time off from work for your anniversary? This might seem a minor consideration, but booking your wedding on a holiday weekend will ensure you get an extra day or two to celebrate and remember your wedding with family—year after year!

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You Love Nature’s Rich Hues

Do you appreciate earth tones and bright accents? A late fall wedding may incorporate jewel tones and vibrant autumnal hues. Brown, burgundy, gold, grey, and orange reflect the season’s natural beauty.

Fall Is Fun

Is there anything better than crunching falling leaves, sipping hot drinks, and watching the rain? If you love the weather during late fall, a Thanksgiving wedding is a natural choice. Consider getting personalized umbrellas or wearing boots for the big day. Have fun with your food, drinks, and décor!

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Turkey, Turkey, Turkey!

Heap on delicious helpings of hot and savory foods! Serve courses your guests will want second and third helpings of, like roast turkey, apple pie, turkey sandwiches, pumpkin ravioli, turkey salad, mashed potatoes—and did we mention turkey? If you venue allows it, hosting a potluck or asking family members to cook is an affordable way to share special recipes and feed your guests!

Rustic Warmth

Lanterns, candles, and warm lighting create beautiful ambiance for a Thanksgiving wedding. If you’re hosting your reception at a lodge or facility with a roaring fire, all the better! Pumpkins, wheat, and leafy decorations add to the cheer of a harvest-themed wedding.

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Longer Is Better

Does the romance of a chapel or cathedral veil sweep you off your feet? A long veil will frame your gown and look stunning in photos! Whether you’re going for simple elegance or head-turning beauty, a long veil will fulfill your late autumn wedding vision.

You Like to Wrap Up

Shawls, scarves, and wraps are not only warm and comfortable, but provide unique opportunities to enrich your wedding. You can add a splash of color and incorporate sentimental meaning at the same time! Ask a close friend or family member to knit something special for you and your bridal party (plenty of time in advance, mind you) to create lovely memories for everyone

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Gratitude Is Glorious

Love is a special gift. If you’re thankful in particular for your relationship and want to reaffirm this theme during your wedding, Thanksgiving pairs beautifully with a message of gratitude.

Gold Accessories Are Perfect for Your Gown

We mentioned that colors complementing the vibrance of late autumn and the harvest work well with a Thanksgiving wedding. If you love gold accessories, this time of year is definitely for you! Gold adds warm, subtle shine and coordinates beautifully with champagne gowns, embroidered details, and earth-tone accents.

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Bel Aire Bridal Headpiece Style: 6482

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Would you plan a Thanksgiving wedding? Tell us about your late autumn or winter ensemble choices!

Fall Color Crush: Copper

Amidst the poignant beauty and vibrant hues of autumn, this season’s most popular wedding colors stand out with stunning allure: earthy reds such as marsala and auburn; fresh greens including sage, fern, and mint; and autumnal favorites like cocoa and pumpkin!

Does this sound delicious, or what?

This week, we’re crushing on warm and cheerful hues such as gold, bronze, copper, and champagne! Check out these five ways to add a splash of sensational color to your wedding. 

Glorious Headpieces

If you’re decking your bridesmaids in a seasonal color such as champagne, chocolate, amethyst, or maroon, a sparkling gold accent perfectly complements these rich hues. Wear a gold bridal headpiece and give your maids matching hair pins, or vice-versa!

Confident Jewelry

Be bold in gold! Try wearing a statement bracelet or earrings in a warm metallic tone; you can match a headpiece or belt and show off red-carpet worthy style in your bridal photos.

Statement Shoes

Dare to dream with sparkling shoes or a gold clutch. A dramatic pop of color adds some pizazz to your ensemble while still looking fashion-forward and utterly fabulous. These details create fun photo opportunities, too!

Beautiful Bridesmaids

Metallics are all the rage this season. There’s nothing more gorgeous and eye-catching than decking your maids in stunning gold sequins or Art Deco beading! Never underestimate the power of sparkle.

Autumn Bouquet

Incorporate the warm hues of fall into your bouquet by choosing brightly-colored flowers and leaves, or wrap the end in a metallic ribbon to add an extra bit of shimmer. You can tie in your accent color with a jewel-tone brooch, too!

Photography Credit: Jessica Cooper Photography 

Gown: Sweet Caroline Styles

Beauty at the Beach

We just love seeing fun photo shoots that incorporate the most gorgeous gowns along with our very own lovely accessories! This “trash the dress” session at the beach looks so breezy and crisp, we can almost smell the fresh sea air. Thanks to Jessica Cooper Photography for sharing these inspirational post-wedding photos!

There’s something so timelessly ethereal about wearing a veil at the beach. A Sweet Caroline gown with pretty lace and heart-fluttering ruffles steals the show, pairing gorgeously with our veil style V7234. This bride also wore our metallic halo 6510, and brought her bouquet along, too!

It sure looks like this bride and groom had a fun day. Are you planning on taking bridal photos at the beach? Share your story!

Check out our Store Locator to find these items in a bridal boutique near you!

Credits-

Florals: Pink Dahlia Vintage
Cake: The Cake Studio of Ocean City
Dress Designer: Sweet Caroline Styles
Bridal Accessories: Bel Aire Bridal
Hair/Makeup: Belles & Grooms
Calligraphy: Parris Chic Boutique
Photography: Jessica Cooper Photography

4 Fabulous Lace Veils to Try at Your Fitting

Are you in love with lace? We sure are!

Lace is a timeless fabric that evokes feminine grace, charm, and beauty. Gorgeous floral designs are still expressed in the intricate laces we use for bridal accessories today—from delicate Chantilly to formal Venise to elaborate Alençon patterns. Whether softly ethereal or regally elegant, lace infuses an air of sweet romance into your wedding ensemble.

Today, we’re highlighting lace veils from our newest collections. If you’ve chosen a lace gown or wish to enhance your bridal look with pure amour, keep scrolling and discover the perfect style for you!

Romantic Rose Lace

There’s something so casually pretty about style V7280. Intricately stitched with a bold pattern of roses in full bloom, this unique design blends traditional bridal motifs with modern, innovative style. A simple rolled edge leaves room for other accessories. If you’re wearing a minimalistic gown or carrying roses, this style harmonizes beautifully with your theme.

Graceful Metallic Florals

Gracefully cascading down your shoulders, style V7281 features a delicate metallic rolled edge and pretty lace appliqués. Beautifully designed with gold or silver accents, this dreamy veil is made for the romantic bride seeking just a touch of metallic shimmer. Pair this piece with a bridal halo, hair jewelry, or shoulder jewelry to make your appearance even more stunning.

Formal Venise Flowers

Formally bridal and regally beautiful, a narrow trim of Venise lace completes your look with true elegance. Light beading adds subtle sparkle, giving style V7273 just a hint of glamour. If you’re wearing lace accessories or a fit and flare lace gown, this lovely design is made for you.

Luxurious Metallic Lace

Metallic tones are a great choice for autumn weddings. If you want to shine in silver or gold, style V7270 combines beautiful lace with metallic embroidery. Intricately gorgeous and elegantly romantic, this pretty design pairs perfectly with your gold or silver accessories. Create a dreamy ensemble that is entirely you.

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Want to see more lovely lace styles? Check out our lace veils and cathedral veils to find the perfect design for your wedding. Try them on in a store near you, and let us know which one is The One!

My Bridal Style: Glamorous

Brighten up gloomy days with a bit of gorgeous bling! If you want your wedding ensemble to look absolutely stunning, shimmer in candlelight, and make you feel lovelier than a princess, then you might be a My Bridal Style Glamorous bride.

Check out a few of our favorite dazzling headpieces with rhinestone accents and/or exquisite silver beading. Are you ready to sparkle?

A rhinestone bridal comb is classy and timeless while still adding that bit of sparkle you crave. Style 6557 is a petite, vintage-inspired silver flower clip with round, marquise, and pear-shaped stones amidst clear crystal beads. You’ll feel romantically beautiful and dazzle your groom at the same time! This design is lovely for engagement parties and anniversaries, too.

Jazz up your bridal ensemble with an utterly captivating statement piece. The sumptuous silver beading and intricate array of rhinestones on style 6552 create a gorgeous vintage-inspired accent. Stunningly sparkly, this design will have all eyes on you. Wear it as an elegant belt for the wedding, and switch to a fabulous headpiece for your reception!

Style your bridal curls with a sweet comb of glittering rhinestones. Curved like a slight crescent moon, 6567 sparkles with an array of pear, round, and oval rhinestones in a timelessly elegant design. Tiny rhinestone flowers and crystal beads add that touch of bridal beauty while making you truly shine. Wear it in the back of an updo, or as a tiny tiara—your choice!

When a little bridal comb just doesn’t add enough sparkle, show off a dramatic headband! Style 6565 loads your hairstyle with instant glamour. Featuring opulent round, pear, and marquise shaped rhinestones in an eye-catching design, this gorgeous band is perfect for a formal wedding. Create a truly special look by pairing a pretty veil and statement jewelry.

Love vintage decadence? Enhance a beaded or lace gown with style 6562, a graceful beaded and rhinestone-embellished tie headpiece. Designed to shimmer, this gorgeous design echoes the glamour of style 6552 with a narrower and (slightly) less dramatic design. This vintage-inspired bit of pretty looks great on bridesmaids and is beautiful as a narrow belt!

Flowers aren’t just for spring! Bling up your autumn or winter wedding look with metallic floral clip 6587. Silver rhinestone swirls add enchanting beauty, while marquise rhinestones catch the light with fabulous appeal that will complement any gown. You’ll love the amazing romance and glamour of this easy-wear design.

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How are you adding sparkle to your bridal ensemble? Tell us which design is your favorite!

Sparkle Spotlight: Gorgeous Halos

Wearing your hair down for the wedding? Love glamorous, sparkly accessories? Want to look stunning on your big day? If this sounds like you, a pretty bridal halo might be in your stars!

Whether you’re going for a look of regal elegance or free-spirited beauty, a flexible metallic halo infuses your bridal ensemble with instant beauty and charm.

This week, we’re highlighting three of our newest halos: styles 6579, 6582, and 6589.

Style 6579 is absolutely romantic and adds an element of old-fashioned grace. This vintage-inspired piece incorporates a classic motif with sparkling rhinestones. Beautifully accent a lace gown or rhinestone drop earrings with this delicate, sweet design.

Light up the room wearing style 6582, a gorgeous halo composed of marquise and round rhinestones in a unique design. This sparkling, modern piece lends delicate, radiant twinkle to your bridal locks. Wear it over your forehead for a more bohemian look, or add a veil for an element of classic beauty.

Exude the beauty of a goddess wearing style 6589, a silver filigree and round rhinestone halo with enchanting elegance! This old-fashioned design features graceful curves and a sparkling floral design. Perfect for the bride or bridesmaids, this utterly romantic halo is a stunning addition to any gown.

Which one is your favorite?

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Want to see more bling? Check out our headpieces page for more hair ideas, or browse our My Bridal Style: Glamorous page for more sparkly styles.

Budget Friendly Headbands

Want to brighten your wedding-day hairstyle, but also need to save money for the honeymoon? Check out our gorgeous headpieces that retail for only around $100. If you’re a budget-savvy bride, you can look amazing without sacrificing style—or your post-wedding financial goals.

Pretty Headbands

Easy to wear and perfectly pretty, a sparkling headband adds sweet shimmer to your bridal look. These beautiful designs offer an effortless styling option for both long and short hair.

 

Style 6564 breathes modern elegance. This delicate silver hair chain glitters with tiny rhinestone accents, bringing the perfect hint of sparkle to your look. This light little detail may be “dressed up” with a dramatic veil or worn alone for a simple bohemian style.

Style 6517 adds a touch of delicate sparkle to your bridal tresses. Tiny flowers composed of twinkling rhinestones infuse your look with subtle bling. This piece is perfect for special occasions before and after the wedding, too!

Infuse your look with carefree, modern beauty wearing style 6404. Inspired by nature, this narrow pearl and rhinestone leaf headband perfectly complements a variety of gowns. Customize your style by pairing different jewelry options.


We LOVE Wedding Veils

(via Roma Bea Images for Bel Aire Bridal)

Want to know how to choose a bridal veil, but you’re not sure exactly what you want? This quick guide to wedding veils will help you decide what style best fits your personality. Check it out!

TOTALLY ROMANTIC

Heart-fluttering, swoonworthy, blushing, beautiful, ravishing—are you in heaven, yet? If you’re a romantic bride, your idea of the perfect day is filled with feminine colors like blush or lavender and classic florals like roses or peonies. You might be wearing a tulle overskirt, dimensional flowers, ruffles and layers, or pretty lace.

Pair your feminine look with a dramatic veil. Gorgeous Alençon lace, beautiful Venise lace, soft Chantilly lace, simple cut edge, and ethereal layers add to the beauty of your style. Consider a cathedral veil with a blusher to complete your dream ensemble.

You Might Like:

My Bridal Style: Romantic / Lace Veils  Cathedral Veils

FUN & FLIRTY

You don’t want to look stodgy, old-fashioned, or overdressed. If you’re a fun and flirty bride, you might be getting married at the park. Your perfect look is casual, pretty, and reflects your light-hearted personality. The dress for you might be short and summery or totally trendy—either way, nothing could dampen your spirits on your special day!

An easy-going bride should still wear a veil—this is your one shot, and why not? The pics will look amazing! Go for a shorter veil such as a French net or blusher, as these styles are easy to wear, show off your personality, and look the best with casual dresses. For a trendy and modern look, a veil with tiny flowers, slight beading, or metallic accents will speak to your style.

You Might Like:

My Bridal Style: Trendy / Beaded Veils  French Net & Face Veils

HIGH-STYLE CHIC

Fashion-forward and fabulous, you’re the type of bride who is obsessively planning the wedding with inspiration from high-class events and celebrity styles. Your couture gown is made by a prominent designer; your chic, glamorous look demands stunning accent pieces!

Top off your special day with an exceptionally gorgeous veil. You can select a style of any length to complement your gown, but a cathedral will add extra drama. Be sure to explore different trims and find one that appeals to you—we suggest a beautifully finished design with sparkling rhinestones, twinkling crystals, or elegant embroidery. Pair your extravagant veil with shoes and jewelry of equal caliber.

You Might Like:

My Bridal Style: Glamorous / Cathedral Veils  / Beaded Veils

CLASSICALLY BEAUTIFUL

Timeless, traditional, simple, elegant—sound about right? If you’re a classic bride, you want to look beautiful but not too trendy—after all, fads come and go. Your wedding needs just the right touch of feminine charm, so you’ve selected a modest dress with pretty details and a simple silhouette.

Accent your look with a veil that is pretty without being overdone. Match the silhouette of your gown with any length—we recommend fingertip, if you’re not sure—and choose a simple trim that complements your dress. Beaded edge veils look great with beaded gowns, while floral accents pair beautifully with lace or embroidered edges. Cut edge goes with everything. Try a few styles and find the perfect fit.

You Might Like:

My Bridal Style: Classic / Classic Veils  / Cathedral Veils 

(via Jennifer Fujikawa Photography for Bel Aire Bridal)

AGED TO PERFECTION

Ready to get your vintage glam on? You’re vibing on a cute Audrey Hepburn dress, non-traditional steampunk outfit, or jazzy Gatsby gown. Your look is unique and inspired by what inspires you: anything from prim 1950s lace to retro 1980s bows. Collecting knick-knacks and converting thrift-store finds is what DIY brides do best.

Top off your look with a veil you’ll love not having to make yourself! If you’re wearing lace, try a lace-trimmed shoulder or elbow length veil. Want to be really edgy? A French net or vintage bridal hat transforms your style with old-fashioned pizazz.

You Might Like:

My Bridal Style: Vintage / Lace Veils  / French Net & Face Veils

DESTINATION: DREAMY

Going away to tie the knot? Your destination wedding look is light and romantic: soft, flowing layers and feminine ruffles help define your bridal style. If your ceremony is on the beach, you’ve selected exotic, tropical flowers for your bouquet and hair—if you’re getting married in a far-off city, your look is utterly magical.

Complete your dream ensemble with an ethereal veil—people love to see a bride out and about! Sparkling rhinestones, shimmering beads, or glistening crystals shimmer by sunlight or candlelight, adding fantastic allure. Cut edge tulle floats on the breeze, giving you artistic photos. Choose a style as unique as your love story for an unforgettable look.

You Might Like:

French Net & Face Veils / Beaded Veils

(via Roma Bea Images for Bel Aire Bridal)

BOHO BABE

Whether you’re saying “I do” in a treehouse, in a mountain meadow, or in front of crashing waves, you are in love with the bohemian look. Your free-spirited style reflects your offbeat individuality—you may not even use a bouquet, and your dress probably features a pattern or colors. A summer wedding is totally you. Bare feet and eclectic accessories complete your laid-back look.

Upgrade your bridal outfit with a pretty flower halo and a soft, flowing veil. A circle foldover or cut edge design pairs beautifully with any kind of halo or nature-inspired headpiece. If you want a touch of sparkle, go for a veil with warm gold accents or an embellished edge that vibes with your style. Find a perfect treasure for your special day—you only get married once!

You Might Like:

Embroidered Veils  / Classic Veils 

Reasons to LOVE Flower Headpieces

(via Roma Bea Images for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6450)

Are you a bohemian bride? A romantic? A modern, trend-follower? A trend-setter? No matter what your wedding look may be, we have ten good reasons to swoon over a gorgeous flower halo or headpiece.

ROMANCE

A flower halo is super romantic—just like the bridal bouquet. There’s just something about flowers that sets our hearts aflutter.

SPARKLE

These days, flower halos and tie headbands include sparkling elements like metallic details, crystals, and rhinestones. If you can add a little extra bling to your bridal style, go for it!

TRADITION

Flower crowns have been around for centuries. Back in the day, brides wore certain flowers for luck, superstition, or symbolism.

BEAUTY

A flower halo looks perfect styled with loose, romantic waves. You’ll get photos with flowers all around your gorgeous face, you lucky girl.

(via KLK Photography for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6551)

FEMININITY

Flowers are a symbol of femininity—come on, how many guys do you see wearing flowers in their hair? Grace your locks with your favorites.

SEASONAL THEME

Since flowers are seasonal, many brides wear floral halos during the spring and summer months. This look is gorgeous for a warm-weather wedding.

EASY TO WEAR

A flower crown doesn’t need much maintenance. You can wear it over a draped veil for dramatic effect or even alone for a light touch of beauty.

MIX & MATCH

Coordinate your floral headpiece with other elements in your wedding wardrobe. If your gown is soft blush, you can choose a blush-colored halo. If you’re in love with gold jewelry, match a gold halo.

(via Roma Bea Images for Bel Aire Bridal – Style 6460)

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Tell us, which flower headpiece is your favorite and why?