5 Ways to Manage Wedding Planning Stress

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Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone! Most brides-to-be experience moments of stress, anxiety, or turmoil while going through the wedding planning process.

On one hand, dealing with everything from difficult family issues to frustrating vendors is good training for marriage. You’ll handle much greater challenges in the years to come. On the other, this is supposed to be a happy time. Really and truly. Your wedding is an occasion to celebrate, and the preceding months shouldn’t be miserable.

When you’re feeling the strain, try these five things to lift your spirits and get back on track.

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Set Boundaries

Is your stress coming from people? From simply planning a massive event? Are you struggling to make decisions? First off, set boundaries. Don’t let other people invade your emotional space or call you every single day with questions. Kindly but firmly take control of your timeline. Avoid planning the wedding every night, and do not let it consume all your free time. Unless you’re a born multitasker, it’s ok to take this one step at a time. Learn to let go of things that, in the grand scheme, don’t really matter.

Get Help

Many brides choose to hire a wedding coordinator. If you’d rather not or can’t afford it, learn to love delegating! Yes, this is your wedding, but that doesn’t mean you have to be responsible for everything. Appoint tasks to your mother, mother-in-law, maid of honor, siblings, and close friends. Ask your fiancée to take over challenges that you’re struggling with. You can still have the final say or weigh in on decisions without having to follow through on every little thing.

Move & Breathe

Top stress relievers are exercise and meditation. Stay active and take care of your body. Work out regularly, eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, and drink plenty of water. Avoid burnout by keeping in good physical shape, and rejuvenate your mind with meditation or calming music. Spend time in nature. Stop and think about the important things, and remember that your life will continue after the wedding. It is one day in your entire marriage.

Indulge Yourself

Sometimes, you just need chocolate. Or lots of ice cream. Or your favorite pizza. Not to say that your healthy diet/exercise regimen should get tossed out the window (in fact, junk foods can make stress hormones like cortisol worse), but an occasional night of guilty pleasure isn’t the worst thing in the world. Watch your favorite tv show or read something non-wedding related. Get your head in a good place, so you can jump back into the swing of things tomorrow.

Celebrate Your Partner

Keep in mind the whole point of this wedding is to celebrate your relationship. Marriage is a serious commitment, but that doesn’t mean you have to act serious every second of every day. Take time out and enjoy being in love. Have fun and laugh! Go on dates. Remember the wonderful things about your partner that made you want to get married, in the first place. Once you focus on what truly matters, you’ll find the other stuff just isn’t that big of a deal.

If you’re experiencing problems that go beyond the “regular” stresses of planning a wedding, identify the issues and figure out how to solve them. Pre-marital counseling could help. Or maybe a large wedding simply isn’t for you at all, and a more intimate ceremony (or elopement) is a better fit.

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Want to learn more about how to manage pre-wedding stress? Check out these great resources: 

http://www.veryerin.com/how-to-reduce-stress-while-wedding-planning/

 http://www.quietrev.com/planning-a-quiet-wedding/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest.com&utm_campaign=feature+life&utm_content=qr+pinterest

Style Spotlight: Venise Lace Veils

Classic romance. Graceful beauty. Sheer style.

These aren’t taglines for an Audrey Hepburn movie—this is what we think of when we see bridal veils made with exquisite Venise lace!

Originally crafted in Italy, the Venise lace design is more structured than other flowery laces such as Chantilly lace. It is also more beautifully detailed than modern cut-out laces. Embroidered flowers create a striking pattern so gorgeous, it could only be used for an occasion as special as a wedding.

Take a peek at these timeless, heart-fluttering designs and get inspiration for your wedding day look!

Flowers in the Meadow

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Some styles are just dreamy. Celebrate your wedding with the beauty of wildflowers by borrowing inspiration from nature’s bounty. This lovely fingertip lace veil features tiny flowers and shimmering beadwork beneath a simple rolled edge. Decorate your neckline with delicate jewelry for a lighthearted, pretty outfit.

You might like My Bridal Style: Destination

Kissing Beneath the Waterfall

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Lavish yourself with romance on your special day. Stunning floral lace cascades gracefully down your silhouette to waltz length. This incredible design of bold, feminine flowers enhances any wedding outfit. Beautifully complementing lace gowns, this ravishing veil may be paired with shimmering jewelry for a swoonworthy, personalized look.

You might like My Bridal Style: Romantic

Blooming Bridal Lilies

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Style an elegant, formal look with lovely lace lilies for your once-in-a-lifetime moment. Graceful and utterly glorious, this beaded lace veil celebrates your beauty with a frame of classic bridal flowers. Pair this flowing fingertip design with a complementary lace headpiece or lustrous pearl jewelry. Create a radiant ensemble that will leave your partner breathless.

You might like My Bridal Style: Classic

Forget-Me-Not Kind of Love

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Sweet as blooming forget-me-nots, this lovely veil features a narrow trim of small flowers. Dotted with tiny rhinestones, this fingertip length style evokes heartfelt love and fidelity. Combine it with a bridal wreath or halo for a totally rustic-chic look. Equally perfect in a meadow or in a church, this refreshing design exudes bridal beauty.

You might like My Bridal Style: Bohemian

The Princess Factor

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Be a princess for a day. Commemorate your wedding with timeless beauty and unforgettable style. Narrow lace in cascading scallops in a romantic foldover design creates a dreamy look fit for royalty. Pair this formal, elegant veil with a shimmering tiara or decadent jewelry. Add sparkling accessories and bring your fairy-tale vision to life.

You might like My Bridal Style: Glamorous

Meeting in the Garden

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Love grows over time. Celebrate this memorable milestone with a beautiful veil featuring flowers in full bloom. Gorgeous as a garden kissed by the sun, this lovely lace design enhances your look with delightful charm. Pair it with a floral dress, vintage jewelry, or tea-party style accessories to create a bridal ensemble as special as your love.

You might like My Bridal Style: Vintage  

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Want to see more? Check out our lace veils and cathedral veils pages for beautifully romantic styles.

16 Love & Marriage Quotes That Get It Right

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Need a break from wedding planning? Looking for encouragement? Want to express the romance in your relationship, but don’t know exactly what to say?

Welcome to our list of inspirational love quotes.

Get lost in heartfelt and honest reflections of what love is truly supposed to be… courtesy of writers, poets, counselors, artists, and philosophers from all over the world.

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“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched—they must be felt with the heart.” ~ Helen Keller

“Any day spent with you is my favorite day. So, today is my new favorite day.” ~ Winnie the Pooh

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“Love does not consist of gazing at each other, but in looking outward together in the same direction.” ~Antoine de Saint-Exupery

“But love, I’ve come to understand, is more than three words mumbled before bedtime. Love is sustained by action, a pattern of devotion in the things we do for each other every day.” ~Nicholas Sparks

“If your first loyalty isn’t to your spouse, then you don’t really understand the meaning of marriage.” ~ Dave Willis

“Being deeply loved gives you strength; loving deeply gives you courage.” ~ Lao Tzu

“What is done in love is done well.” ~Vincent Van Gogh

“We’re all a little weird and life’s a little weird, and when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love.” ~Dr. Seuss

 “Being in a long marriage is a little bit like that nice cup of coffee every morning—I might have it every day, but I still enjoy it.” ~Stephen Gaines

“Marriage is a gift from God to us. The quality of our marriage is a gift from us to Him.” ~L. Whitney Clayton

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“When someone else’s happiness is your happiness, that is love.” ~Lana Del Rey

“When I get married, I want to be very married.” ~Audrey Hepburn

“The more love we receive, the more love we shine forth.” ~Dante Alighieri

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What is love, to you? Share your thoughts and favorite quotes!

Jessica Cooper Photography for Sweet Caroline Styles

How to Stay Married: 6 Rules You Need to Follow

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So you’re engaged. Congrats! But did you know the whole point of having a wedding is that you’re getting married?

This might seem obvious, but a lot of people spend countless hours preparing for the wedding event without giving a thought to the actual marriage—which lasts the rest of your life!

FYI, being married is not the same as dating. It’s a good idea to go through pre-marital counseling, which may be available through your church (if you’re not religious, plenty of counselors specialize in relationships). You can also read a book together, such as The Five Love Languages, and discuss your expectations for the future.

Here are six tips to help make your marriage a positive and even amazing experience.

Learn To Communicate

You probably get along well with your partner. Treating each other with mutual respect is obvious, and most engaged couples share core values. This doesn’t mean that you’ll agree on everything all the time. Learn how to communicate. Balance speaking and listening skills; learn how to fight and make up. Express your appreciation in meaningful ways. Find out how your partner likes to discuss difficult issues. Do they like things out in the open, right away? Do they need time/space to process? Figure out the best way to coexist in your household.

Continually Commit

Getting engaged is an important milestone, yet committing to a relationship takes much more. Building mutual trust is so important and prevents issues like jealousy or second-guessing. Your wedding vows are more than a ceremonial promise; they are a behavioral promise. Stop flirting. Stop putting yourself in situations designed to help singles meet prospective mates. Does your social life end? Of course not. But a committed person doesn’t entertain thoughts or actions that could even possibly lead to infidelity. Because when you’re married, that’s how much you love your partner. Period.

Set Boundaries

Think of yourself as a knight. Your marriage is your castle, and it’s always under attack. It’s up to you to protect your relationship. Not all stressors come from people deliberately trying to break you up (although this can happen). Sometimes, negativity creeps in from your family or work situation. Schedules can get crazy; outside commitments can be demanding. It’s important to set boundaries and let others know that you value your marriage. Protect your personal time. Protect your partner’s privacy and maintain their trust. Seek community with people who will support your relationship.

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Keep Having Fun

Not everything about marriage is hard. (Otherwise, why would people bother?) Actually, in a lot of ways, being married is easier than dating. For one thing, you get to be together a lot more! Plus when you share resources, you’ll have more money to spend on dates or anniversary celebrations; when money is tight, you can find creative ways to be romantic. Plan adventures. Share special moments. Geek out together. Keep having the fun you had in the beginning, and staying married comes pretty easily.

Prioritize Your Partner

Work and professional commitments take lots of time. Add hobbies, religious activities, family events, and social engagements—your day is pretty full! However, the number ONE person in your life is your spouse. Remember this and stick to it. Always consult with your partner and make their needs a priority. Because when you’re old or sick or just need someone there for you, your spouse is that person. Jobs will eventually end. Kids may or may not stick around. When you choose someone for life, they’ll choose you back. That kind of loyalty comes from putting each other first.

Keep Falling in Love

The magic of your first kiss and that heart-fluttering moment he proposed are just the tip of the iceberg. The true beauty of marriage is that you get to keep falling in love. Be kind. Be thoughtful. Speak your spouse’s love languages. When you invest in your relationship and put forth extra effort, your marriage will get even better. If you’ve ever seen an old couple celebrating their 50th anniversary, you’ll notice the depth of their intimacy surpasses mere words. Make each day together special, as much as possible. You’ll see the difference when you choose love.

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Do you have advice for newlyweds? Share your favorite tip!

Ravishing Rose Gold: Our Most Popular Styles in a Gorgeous New Color

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Romance is in the air. It’s the height of wedding season, and we couldn’t be more excited to release a gorgeous new selection of beautiful bridal headpieces in rose gold!

Bohemian, luxurious, trendy, vintage-inspired, and glamorous—we’ve carefully chosen a design for every bride. This lovely shade of gold blends the warmth of traditional yellow gold with the charming allure of blush pink. The results are literally stunning.

Scroll down to see some of our most popular headpieces in a whole new light.

Pearl Cluster Comb

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Sparkling, rhinestone-encrusted flowers with pearl clusters create a classic, beautiful bridal accent. This lovely comb easily tucks into a chignon or updo, adding instant elegance to any outfit. Style this comb in the back or on the side; pair it with a glittering rose gold belt or earrings to complete your look.

Other color options: Silver

Shimmering Filigree Halo

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One of our most romantic halos just got trendier! Create a beautiful, boho-luxe look with a gorgeous linked metallic halo shimmering with round rhinestones. Floral filigree and stunning sparkle make this design a must-have for a wedding in any season. Style this with a veil for a truly incredible ensemble.

Other color options: Gold, Silver.

Royal Swirls Sash

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Slip into something gorgeous. Rhinestone-encrusted floral swirls create a luxurious pattern of eye-catching sparkle. This regal design transforms any gown with legendary beauty. Wear it as a sash for a trendy accent, or style it as a tie headband for serious wow factor.

Other color options: Silver/Ivory, Silver/White.

In Full Bloom Pins

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Kiss your bridal hair style with a touch of sparkle. A pair of whimsical, rhinestone-encrusted floral pins glitters with subtle beauty. Style this in a vintage-inspired updo with trailing curls, or gift these little favors to your bridesmaids to complement their gowns!

Other color options: Gold, Silver.

Pretty Pearls Garland

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Beautifully bohemian, this lovely design incorporates pearls and fairy-tale sparkle in a modern design. A flexible metallic hair vine with lustrous glass pearls and delicately wired rhinestones ties on sheer organza. Weave it through a braid or wear it as a headband to personalize your look.

Other color options: Gold/ivory, Silver/ivory, Silver/white.

Vintage Glamour Headband

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Sparkling marquise and oval stones dominate a gorgeous, vintage-inspired headband. Glittering in a magnificent design of shimmering filigree, this metal-link headband exudes dramatic beauty. Tie it on as an opulent headband or belt to express your own style.

Other color options: Silver.

Midsummer Tiara

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Show off an eye-catching bridal tiara in trendy rose gold! Reign over your fairy-tale wedding with this gorgeous design of sparkling swirls and rhinestones. Best paired with a dramatic gown and veil, you’ll add just a hint of magic with this elegant, romantic finishing touch.

Other color options: Silver.

Simple Sparkle Halo

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Sometimes, it’s the simple things you appreciate the most. A sparkling halo of narrow rhinestones and floral motifs encircles your bridal hairstyle with feminine allure. Style this lovely, boho-luxe design with a veil for maximum romance, or wear it alone as a light accent piece.

Other color options: Silver.

Floral Swirl Comb

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Vintage-inspired yet oh-so-chic, this ornate design combines rhinestone swirls with small, sparkling flowers in an artistic pattern. Classically elegant, this shimmering comb beautifully complements any romantic ensemble. Style this with luxurious rose gold earrings to complete your look.

Other color options: Silver.

Celestial Sparkle Tiara

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Enrich your wedding day ensemble with a gorgeous tiara packed with glittering rhinestones. Sparkling with starry splendor, this lovely design tops off any princess-inspired gown with ravishing beauty. Wear it with a veil and opulent rhinestone jewelry to complete a dreamy look.

Other color options: Silver.

Fairy-Tale Headband

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Step into a fairy tale wearing a delicate, twinkling headband. Sparkling center stones and a narrow line of shimmering rhinestones create a fantastic accent for your wedding wardrobe. Complement this romantic design with a graceful veil and elegant drop earrings.

Other color options: Silver.

Want to see more? Match your chosen headpiece with our bracelets and earrings that are now available in rose gold!

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How To Style a Late Summer Wedding

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As the golden days with warm weather dwindle, we find ourselves looking wistfully at gorgeous outdoor weddings. Boho-luxe, rustic, shabby-chic, beach, and glamping themes make beautiful summer themes; yet as we slowly transition to fall, an entirely new aesthetic beckons.

Bring the bright, airy beauty of summer and rich opulence of an abundant harvest together! Jessica Cooper Photography paired with Sweet Caroline Gowns to feature warm metallics, rich accent colors, and plenty of pretty sparkle.

Make your own late summer wedding utterly radiant with just four styling elements.

Golden Oldies

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Vintage-inspired and dripping with gorgeousness, our lovely gold accessories bridge the gap between seasons with luxurious elegance. Sparkling rhinestones, gold metallic leaves, and intricately decorated details leave the onlooker breathless. Style your whole ensemble around a base metallic color such as gold, copper, rose gold, or silver and you’ll feel like a goddess. Your jewelry, hair piece, veil, belt, and shoes are all opportunities to personalize your look.

Colors That Pop

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We love that bold brides are departing from the traditional white dress and branching out to other colors! Style a confident look for your ceremony or reception with a dress featuring appliqués, ombré, floral print, or just a non-white hue. Let the bridesmaids’ dresses complement your ensemble. Navy, forest green, and marsala evoke earthy elegance; softer tones such as grey, nude, and tan create a neutral backdrop. Shimmering sequin gowns are totally allowed.

Natural Hair

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This year’s brides are going au naturel. Whether you love long waves or are dying to try out a top knot, you can and should customize your look. Start out with your hair down for a laid-back and completely romantic style for the day. For the afternoon and/or ceremony, try twisting your hair into a half-up braid or chignon for a more formal yet still easygoing look. When night hits and you’re ready to party, create a totally chic top bun and flaunt sparkling earrings. Keep your hair styles simple so you can show off more accessories throughout the day.

Romantic Touches

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Blend the beauty of harvest with the lighthearted romance of summer—literally. Create tablescapes that feature calligraphy, lots of greenery, your chosen metallic, upcycled vases, and plants such as gourds, succulents, and berries. Get creative and pick your favorite elements from each season; you’ll be surprised at how well they blend together! You can play up the rustic charm of summer with wildflowers and burlap accents, or lean towards the vibrant allure of autumn with candles and leafy branches. Incorporate striking colors and string up lights, so both your day and night photos will look gorgeous.

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Are you styling a late summer wedding? Follow us on Instagram for more styled shoot inspiration, and browse our Fall 2016 collection for eye-catching accessories.

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!

Choose the Perfect Veil in 5 Easy Steps

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Romantic. Iconic. Once-in-a-lifetime.

Yes, a bridal gown should be all of these things—but what about your veil?

Your veil is the finishing touch of your bridal wardrobe. Think of it as the chocolate on your ice cream sundae—it makes everything else so much better!

It’s tempting to pick the first style you try on. Just as with gowns, there are actually about a thousand veil options, with different lengths, styles, and materials. Follow these five easy steps to discover a design that is right for you!

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#1: Pick a Theme

First, your whole bridal wardrobe should vibe with your personal style. Figure out if you want a vintage-inspired look, a traditional outfit, a glamorous wardrobe, or an extra-trendy ensemble. Match your gown and veil to that theme.

If you’re laid-back, a full-on lace cathedral veil might not feel right to you. If you’re styling a retro look, you might be charmed by a short veil. Romantics tend to love lace.

On the other hand, some brides like going the opposite way. Tomboys can wind up loving completely feminine styles, and girls who normally lay on the bling might keep things simple and sweet. Your wedding is a special day and it’s totally acceptable to explore different themes!

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#2: Short or Long?

If you’re wearing a formal gown, get a long veil. If you’re wearing a short or casual dress, pick a short veil. There are also a variety of in-between lengths you can try.

Long veils can be cathedral length (108”), chapel length (90”), or floor length (68”). This typically will match or exceed the train of your gown.

Short veils hit above your waist. Common lengths include a birdcage veil or net just (covers your face), shoulder length (26”), and elbow length (32”). These veils pair well with tea or knee length dresses and/or full skirts.

If you’re not sure on length, start long and work your way shorter. Cathedral veils are easily the most romantic, while short blushers tend to be flirty and fun. Fingertip length (38”) and waltz length (54”) are probably the most figure-flattering as they elongate your torso.

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#3: Trim Type

Few brides pick a veil before they’ve chosen a gown. The key here (and it’s pretty easy) is to match or complement your gown. So if your gown has beading, pair it with a beaded veil. If your dress has lace, you can choose a lace-trimmed veil. Simple, right?

An alternate strategy is to focus on your overall style. A satin ribbon edge gives your outfit classic, traditional elegance. A simple rolled or cut edge is more minimalist. Embroidery gives you a rich, luxurious look. Try on a few designs to see what looks good with your gown.

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#4: Number of Layers

The number of layers on the veil just depends on how you are wearing it. These tiers can add lovely shape and volume to your silhouette.

Want the veil to drift behind you? Are you interested in a sleek, modern look? = 1 tier.

Are you going to wear the veil over your face for the walk down the aisle? Do you want added sparkle or trim to dress up the back of your dress, when the veil is flipped back? Would you like the veil to cascade down in waves? = 2 tiers. (You can also just add a blusher.)

Do you want over-the-top drama? Are you flaunting a dramatic skirt, or do you need more volume to balance out your silhouette? = 3+ tiers.

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#5: Pairing

Just as you might pair wine with dinner, what you wear with your veil can completely change its style. This is where your other accessories come in!

A drop veil paired with a shimmering halo, for example, looks beautifully boho-chic. A stunning rhinestone fascinator with a face veil gives a striking, vintage-inspired impression. A long lace cathedral veil with a flower comb tucked underneath appears sweetly romantic.

Your jewelry and/or headpiece should complement your veil, and vice-versa. Get on Pinterest or browse bridal blogs to choose the overall style you want to achieve. Keep in mind that you can wear your accessories together or one at a time for different ceremony and reception looks.

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And that’s it! Now you’re ready to choose the perfect veil for your big day. Try on a few before you make a final decision, and have fun! Remember that no matter what, you’re going to look beautiful.

Need inspiration? Follow us on Instagram and browse our Pinterest pages to get you started!

How to Pair Jewelry with Your Wedding Gown’s Neckline

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Do you know how to pull off the most gorgeous outfit you’ll ever wear?

Styling your bridal ensemble is a balancing act. Too much bling, and you’ll look like a kid playing dress-up. Not enough, you might appear bland and boring.

Wedding jewelry should complement—not overshadow or clash with—your belle robe. Common gown necklines include off-the-shoulder, one shoulder, high neckline, bib neck, straight, scoop, sweetheart, illusion, v-neck, strapless, and backless.

Scroll to find your dress, or discover your best styling options for each type!

OFF-THE-SHOULDER

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Gowns that lay off the shoulder are usually romantic, destination, or bohemian in nature. As such, minimal jewelry is usually the best way to go. The look here is meant to be soft and sensual. Pair this neckline with a dainty round necklace (if at all) and compensate with small drop earrings. A bracelet is a lovely finishing touch. You can even add a belt to give your dress a bit more interest.

Common mistake: Wearing a 3+ piece jewelry set. Don’t be too matchy-matchy.

Trendy tip: If you love bling, go the other way: wear a bib necklace and rock that sparkle.

ONE SHOULDER

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One-shoulder gowns are formal and reminiscent of beauty queens—the focus is on your beautiful face and that little bit of skin you’re showing. This is a popular style for destination and/or black-tie weddings. Pair this neckline with dramatic, extra-sparkly earrings. A bracelet rounds this outfit off nicely. If you want more bling on your dress, you can add an elegant pin. Maximum on this is two or maybe three items.

Common mistake: Wearing a necklace. You don’t want to cover the fabric with anything.

Trendy tip: Pair a veil with your look to make it more classically bridal.

HIGH NECKLINE

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A gown with a high neckline is often vintage-inspired and/or features lots of lace. A bib neck is similar to the mock turtleneck in that it comes up high, but it forms a triangle shape that is less formal. Minimal stud earrings are the best option, so there’s no distraction from the beautiful detail of your gown. A pretty headpiece or comb is better than jewelry in this case. You don’t need a lot of bling for a sweet, romantic ensemble. Add a bracelet or ring to round off the look.

Common mistake: Wearing a necklace, which tends to look overstyled and/or too casual.

Trendy tip: Style a pretty updo and play around with those lovely locks. Add a clip or comb!

STRAIGHT ACROSS

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A straight neckline is usually a strapless gown (though it can have spaghetti straps) with a distinctly ‘90s feeling to it. Many of these dresses tend to be satin, but some feature lovely lace or even organza. To avoid looking too severe, pair this neckline with a round necklace or bib that adds some flair to your outfit. Definitely play up your earrings and create an ultra-romantic hairstyle. You can add a bracelet or a belt. In this situation, more is more.

Common mistake: Not enough bling. Don’t look too bare in your photos.

Trendy tip: Cover up your shoulders when it gets cold with a wrap or bolero. This doesn’t interfere with your jewelry and adds some intrigue.

SCOOP NECK

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Scoop necks give your silhouette a fresh, almost casual look. For this reason, you don’t want a lot of bling around your neck. If your gown has a very low scoop neckline, a choker or minimal charm necklace is a sweet addition. Otherwise, leave it off and choose earrings that go with your theme: minimal for a laid-back outfit, and more sparkly for a formal gown. If you’re wearing a bohemian gown, incorporate natural stone jewelry. If your style is classic, wear pearls.

Common mistake: Wearing a round necklace. This retro style mirrors the dress too much.

Trendy tip: Definitely show off a bracelet, or even stack a few!

SWEETHEART

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This lovely neckline is probably the most recognizable in the wedding industry. It even sounds romantic. A sweetheart gown is usually a strapless ball gown or an A-line dress. It is formal and sometimes over-the-top elegant, with a feminine vibe that is irresistibly bridal. This neckline pairs well with just about anything: a bib necklace, a round necklace, or even a dainty drop necklace. Polish off your look with earrings that match. If you’re wearing a belt, be sure that the bling isn’t overwhelming.

Common mistake: Overdressing. Try everything on together and make sure you don’t look like a doll.

Trendy tip: Pick your favorite piece of jewelry as the focal point. Everything else should be smaller and/or complement that item.

ILLUSION NECKLINE

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An illusion neckline is a layer of sheer fabric that comes up after the main portion of the gown ends. Gowns featuring illusion are usually breezy, lacking structure and instead bringing lots of dreamy layers and romantic 3D flowers. Sometimes lace creeps up over the illusion, giving you a barely-there sort of style. Wear pretty drop earrings to accentuate the feminine beauty of your outfit. Again, it’s better to skip a necklace. Even though the top is sheer, your skin is a focal point. Keep things organic and natural.

Common mistake: Bejeweling your neck or shoulders.

Trendy tip: Add a subtle but sparkling headpiece to give your whole outfit goddess-like allure.

V-NECK

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The v-neckline is fairly self-explanatory. Most gowns with a v-neck feature broad straps or sleeves. V-necks sometimes feature lace or beading; they tend to be figure-flattering and give your silhouette romantic appeal. Match a v-shaped drop or multi-strand necklace that mimics the shape of your neckline. It shouldn’t drop into your bust or hang down over the dress unless you’re going bohemian. An ultra-long necklace is best for a fun, vintage-inspired reception look.

Common mistake: Pairing a round or overly formal necklace. It just looks a little weird.

Trendy tip: Wear pretty drop earrings that will draw attention up to your face.

STRAPLESS

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Ok, so we’re cheating a little on this one. A strapless gown can be a sweetheart or straight neckline. But there’s a special way you can style this. Instead of choosing a necklace, you can pull out shoulder jewelry! Super trendy and extra sparkly, this eye-catching accessory is really its own thing. Add earrings, but don’t bother with much else if you’re going this route. Shoulder jewelry transforms the gown and gives it a very fun and modern look.

Common mistake: Wearing earrings and a belt and a headpiece with shoulder bling. It’s a bit much.

Trendy tip: Switch out the shoulder jewelry for a cute necklace or jacket for a whole new reception look.

BACKLESS

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Well, aren’t you bold and beautiful! Backless gowns are modern and obviously show off some skin. Sleek and sensual, these dresses tend to feature long trains. They can be softly sweet with billowing organza or princess-chic with lots of lace. This type of gown is dramatic on its own, so avoid going overboard on the jewelry. A back necklace is the best way to add sparkle. If you’d prefer to go bare, play up your earrings. This look is romantic, all the way.

Common mistake: Not wearing a veil. You’ll see the gown perfectly well through the sheer tulle.

Trendy tip: Wear a bracelet and a loose hairstyle to accentuate your feminine beauty.

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Reference: http://www.mywedding.com/jewelry/accessories/the-right-accessories-for-the-right-neckline/

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Style My Bridesmaids

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Choosing a wedding day theme is like picking ice cream on a hot day—they all look incredible!

Your wedding aesthetic reflects who you are, both as individuals and as a couple. Maybe you both love vintage styles; or perhaps he is rugged and you’re glamorous (enter the glamping wedding).

When you choose your bridesmaids’ outfits, keep in mind that this is so much more than an opportunity to play dress-up with your girlfriends! Their gown designs and accessories should not only make them feel comfortable (and pretty), but reflect your overall mood.

Gift your bridesmaids with accessories that will honor your friendship, say thank-you for all their support, and tie together your wedding theme with incredible beauty.

If You’re a Glam Girl

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If you’re a glamorous bride, your designer dress is stunning. It may be sleek and shimmering with sequins; it might be a gorgeous mermaid dress or a princess-inspired ball gown. Your jewelry will be formal. Amazing shoes are a must, and your veil is drop-dead gorgeous.

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To tie together your glamorous theme, lay on the sparkle! For example, a shimmering opal rhinestone headband like 6603 for you goes beautifully with a smaller comb like 6617 for your friends.

Other sparkly options for your maids: 6543, 1978, and 1710

Want more inspiration? Check out our My Bridal Style: Glamorous page.

If You’re Vintage-tastic

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If you’re a vintage bride, you’re probably rocking a red lip or a birdcage veil. Long lace sleeves, a high neckline, or a cute tea-length number set the stage for a charming ceremony! Your reception style incorporates more sparkle, complete with a beaded jazz-era gown and shimmering accessories.

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Complement your vintage-inspired accessories with similar styles for your bridesmaids, just on a smaller scale. For example, our Art Deco headpiece 6400 dovetails nicely with glittering comb 6405.

Other vintage options for your maids: 6607, 6390, and 1721

Want more inspiration? Check out our My Bridal Style: Vintage page.

If You’re Oh-So-Boho

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Laid-back yet chic, a bohemian style is perfect for summer! Breezy gowns and unique accessories are the hallmarks of free-spirited boho beauty. You’ve chosen comfortable outfits for your wedding weekend bash. You enjoy color, and your accessories include anything and everything that feels right to you.

Style your bridesmaids with halos or flower clips that mimic the style you’ve chosen for yourself. For the perfect blend of pretty, match a flexible headpiece style like 6542 with a wired comb like 6544.

Other bohemian options for your maids: 6505, 6629, and 1723

Want more inspiration? Check out our My Bridal Style: Destination and My Bridal Style: Bohemian pages.

If You’re a Whimsical Romantic

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You love flowers, so of course you’re getting married in a garden! Your dress and veil feature soft tulle or beautifully elaborate lace; your sparkling, feminine accessories are nothing short of stunning. Your bridesmaids are probably dressed in soft pastels or floral prints.

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Complement your own floral headpiece with a smaller-scale version for your maids. For example, if you’re wearing a lovely flower comb like 6600, match it with pins 1720.

Other romantic options for your maids: 6680, 1718, and 6699

Want more inspiration? Check out our My Bridal Style: Romantic page.

If You’re Keeping It Classy

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Your look is timeless and simple, which is what makes it so perfect. Your natural beauty takes center stage, and you don’t need a lot of accessories or trims. The gown and veil you’ve chosen are elegant and minimalistic. Your wedding is focused on celebrating your marriage, and nothing more.

Accessorize your bridesmaids with classic pearls that they can wear again after the wedding! Our rhinestone and pearl bridal headband 6640 pairs beautifully with pins 1722.

Other classic options for your maids: 1710, 6540, and 6483

Want more inspiration? Check out our My Bridal Style: Classic page.

If You’re All About Trends

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If you’re a trendy bride, your look is totally modern. You want your wedding to be of-the-moment, with all the latest bits of pretty that runway fashions and independent designers can deliver! From celeb-inspired veils to stunning new accessories, your style is all about keeping it fresh.

Boho-luxe and princess-style gowns are in right now; delicate, sparkling accessories pair best with these romantic styles. Complement a flexible opal rhinestone hair vine like 6628 with matching pins 1717.

Other trendy options for your maids: 6690, 6564, and 6467

Want more inspiration? Check out our My Bridal Style: Trendy page.

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These are just a few pairing suggestions. You can also let each person choose her own headpiece, or mix and match different styles! If you want to include your bridesmaids in the decision, find a Bel Aire Bridal Trunk Show at your nearest authorized bridal salon and play with all our prettiest headpieces in person. Have fun!