Shop the Monique Lhuillier trunk show at Warren Barron this weekend.

Trunk shows are a great way to see more of a designer’s dresses than are normally carried in a store. You’ll have more to choose from, so don’t miss out! Click the links below for all the details.

Monique Lhuillier Trunk Show at Warren Barron

Claire Pettibone Trunk Show at StarDust Celebrations

Allure Couture Bridal Trunk Show at Bridal Boutique of Lewisville

The post Trunk Show Scoop: Monique Lhuillier, Claire Pettibone, and Allure Couture Bridal appeared first on D Weddings.

The adorable Bisous Bisous gift favor box. Photo by Andrea Meyer.

Let’s be real. If you give me food, I’ll be your friend. If you give me free raspberry and salted caramel macarons, I’ll be your number one fan. Andrea Meyer, head pastry chef and owner of Bisous Bisous Patisserie, succeeded in building her fan base by one last week after bringing me a few of these scrumptious morsels when I met her at Mercat Bistro for a Monday morning, much-needed latte.

The little brown box, sealed with a light blue bow-tied ribbon and complete with Bisous’s blue and brown signature logo, came with four macarons tucked inside (two of each flavor stated above). She said gift favors like these are often utilized at wedding showers and receptions. They can be custom ordered by her clients, who get to choose the colors on the packaging to suit their event, as well as the flavor of the treats to suit their palette.

A tower of treats. Photo by Andrea Meyer.

Another popular option for wedding events is her equally edible and aesthetic macaron tower. With 215 macarons to a tower, these creations are like fly paper for guests, she says. Clients can again pick custom colors and flavors, or they can get a colorful mix of all kinds! Macarons are her far most popular dessert (she makes over 1,000 a week), but she can also whip up an array of French-style pastries, cookies, small cakes, and cupcakes.

But with the cupcake craze specifically having been around for a few years, Meyer noticed an opportunity to bring the expanding macaron trend to Dallas. After trying her first French vanilla macaron 11 years ago during her Paris honeymoon, Meyer fell for the bite-size confections and began imagining a macaron monopoly of her own.

She opened Bisous in January of last year after quitting her corporate job of six years and completing an intensive pastry program in Austin. For now, she rents a kitchen space in downtown Dallas to bake her goodies, but as her business rapidly expands, she’s en route to landing herself a retail space. She’s in talks with a new building in Uptown and hopes to have her storefront by the end of October.

Until then, you can find an assortment of her pastries at Nespresso Coffee Boutique, the White Rock Local Market, and Artizone, an online artisan market. Or, head on over to her website to custom order a batch for your wedding reception or shower.

The post Bisous Bisous Patisserie Creates Custom Macaron Assortments for Weddings appeared first on D Weddings.

Brian Kilmartin and Camille Mangana both moved to St. Louis to start graduate school in the fall of 2009 – he in medical school and she in law school. Camille befriended a few medical school students in her apartment building near campus. The summer before her second year of school, a girlfriend of hers asked her to join her out for the night. They were out and about at a bar in downtown St. Louis when they bumped into Brian’s medical school friends. A mutual friend, Andrew, introduced her to Brian and she was immediately attracted to him. Much to her dismay, he did not ask for her number. But fate had another plan: they bumped into each other at another bar on two separate occasions in the subsequent weeks. Brian asked for her phone number and went on their first date to the Boat House at Forest Park. One month later they made it official.

Brian and Camille were living in two separate cities during the summer of 2012 because of her internship in Kansas City and his rotations in St. Louis. Despite the four hour drive from Kansas City to St. Louis, she drove back every weekend to see Brian and their puppy Max. The week that Brian proposed, he acting a little bit out of the norm by continually asking her if she was driving back for the weekend. She thought something was up, but told herself that he was probably just busy with Max and needed help. When she arrived in St. Louis and stepped into his apartment, she noticed a trail of flowers, petals, and candles leading her to Brian. When she walked into the room, he was down on one knee and an engagement ring box was surrounded by roses. Brian began speaking to her in Filipino, her native language. It was a sweet gesture, but she couldn’t understand what he was saying! Towards the end, she could make out an “I love you” and “Will you marry me?” It meant so much to her he was attempting to speak her language and she said yes and cried.

The couple will marry on August 30, 2014. The ceremony will be held at St. Thomas Aquinas with a reception to follow at Hotel ZaZa.

The post Engaged: Camille Mangana and Brian Kilmartin appeared first on D Weddings.

We’ve long been fans of Claire Pettibone’s romantic and bohemian gowns. (So much so we’ve featured them in our magazine time and time again.) The Los Angeles-based designer uses vintage-inspired fabrics, lace, and tulle with accessories and embellishments such as flowers and beading to achieve her feminine point-of-view. She started out in the industry as a lingerie designer and the influence comes out in her designs.

Her gowns are form-fitting with interesting necklines such as deep-Vs, backless keyholes, and cap sleeves. She also likes to play with color and isn’t afraid to add a black flower to the back of a dress or a green embroidery to the skirt. If you’re on the hunt for a vintage look for your big day, you can view the Still Life Collection this weekend from April 4 to April 6 at StarDust Celebrations in Plano. There will be a Claire Pettibone specialist on-hand to help with fittings and customizations. Call 972-781-1619 to make an appointment.

The post View Claire Pettibone’s Romantic Collection at StarDust Celebrations This Weekend appeared first on D Weddings.

Thanks to executive chef Enjolik Bailey from Low Country Quisine for answering this week’s reader question:

My fiance and I are trying to decide between a buffet and seated dinner. Does the cost per person differ?

Yes,but not necessarily because of the food cost. The biggest difference in cost for a seated meal versus a buffet is the amount service staff that will be required to execute your reception. Seated meals require more servers and in some cases, a need for more equipment rental. However, this does not always mean that buffets are less expensive. The type of food you select for your menu will be one of the main factors in your bottom line price.

The post Ask the Expert: Comparing Catering Costs appeared first on D Weddings.

A fresh face and a beautiful bride. Photo from TC MAKEUP.

Brides deserve to look and feel their best on their big day, and we are here to help. From hair care and skincare to fitness and health tricks for wives-to-be, we’ve got you covered. Check back every Wednesday for advice, tips, and tricks from the local pros in beauty and health.

This season there are tons of pretty makeup trends that we adore. Whether fresh and light or heavier and glam, a bride’s makeup not only speaks to her personality, but also provides a sense of her wedding’s theme. Tisha Corcoran, owner and senior makeup artist at TC MAKEUP, said the majority of her clientele is made up of brides, and she has courteously agreed to share the main trends making up this spring’s bridal looks. Read on to see if 2014’s top three makeup trends suit your style.

1. Fresh-faced: With big lashes, light eye shadow, shimmery pink cheeks, and a light, glossy lip, this look is the season’s most popular trend. Corcoran provides her clients with a to-go lip-gloss for reapplication throughout the evening. Using a good makeup primer, liquid powder (if your skin is oilier), and a powder to set the foundation will help the face makeup stay intact longer. Complete the ethereal look with an angelic hairstyle of loose, soft curls.

2. Smoky: Bold eye makeup (think charcoal grey or a deep brown shadow and long, luscious lashes) is coupled with a light pink or nude lip for this smolderingly chic look. Make sure that pretty pink lipstick doesn’t get smudged off after the first kiss with the groom by applying a lipstick sealer. This will also keep the lips from looking dull or flaky. The smoky look is sexy and bold, so keep that in mind as you plan what appearance you’re going for!

3. Vintage: This classic look includes a combination of light-colored eye shadow, a heavy top eyeliner, big eyelashes, and a bold lip. Cherry red for the fairer brides and darker merlot reds for olive complexions make great lipstick options for the vintage trend. As for the eyeliner, consider a pretty winged cat-eye to add some flair.

No matter the style you choose, it’s vital to play up your naturally beautiful features! But remember: Your makeup should be just as fun and complimentary as your groom.

The post BridalBuzz Beauty Guide: Three Bridal Makeup Trends for Spring appeared first on D Weddings.

Angie and Drew met at a mutual friend’s 29th birthday party that Angie threw at her parents’ house. Angie remembers thinking, “This guy is crazy cute, fun and sweet, ” but she wasn’t sure if the feeling was mutual. Sure enough, a few days later Drew invited Angie to coffee at Pearl Cup and, of course, she said yes. Coincidentally, Angie’s mom spotted Drew at the party and thought he would be the perfect match for her. Drew took Angie to a tour of their favorite first date spots –Bolsa and The Arboretum–and ended at a park on Turtle Creek where he asked her to marry him.

Angie’s vision for the wedding was based on her favorite color: coral. She handed the details over to Susan Graham and the planning responsibilities to DFW Events and let the professionals take over. “We had the best of the best; our wedding was great because of their talents and professionalism,” Angie says. The couple’s devotion to their faith showed in the ceremony and their love for dancing was apparent at the reception. They danced all night to The Project Band as the perfect way to end the night.

Vendors
Ceremony Site: Royal Lane Baptist Church
Photographer: Andrea Polito Photography
Paper Products: Invitations Etc and Loopty Loo Designs
Bridal Gown Designer: Ines Di Santo
Bridal Gown Retailer: The Bridal Salon at Neiman Marcus Downtown
Hair & Makeup: Maitee Miles
Bridesmaid Dresses Designer: LulaKate
Bridesmaid Dresses Retailer: Bella Bridesmaid
Flower Girl Dress: J. Crew
Flowers: Susan Graham Designs
Reception Venue: The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas
Wedding Cake: The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas
Caterer: The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas
Entertainment: The Project Band
Videographer: Jason Helm, Helm Productions
Lighting: Susan Graham Designs
Rentals: Susan Graham Designs
Wedding Planner: Whitney Cotton, DFW Events
Wedding Designer: Susan Graham Designs

The post Angela Spence & Andrew Mosier appeared first on D Weddings.

Shop the beach-inspired gowns from Island Bridal at Patsy’s, A Bridal Boutique. Photo c/o http://islandbridalonline.com.

Trunk shows are a great way to see more of a designer’s dresses than are normally carried in a store. You’ll have more to choose from, so don’t miss out! Click the links below for all the details.

Justin Alexander Trunk Show at Bridal Boutique of Lewisville

Island Bridal Trunk Show at Patsy’s, A Bridal Boutique

The post Trunk Show Scoop: Justin Alexander and Island Bridal appeared first on D Weddings.

Photomadic is a beautiful modern photo booth for the bride that needs every detail of the wedding to be perfect. From its sleek design, to the high quality pictures, Photomadic offers an experience that guests will adore. And since it is self-operated with an open design, you can count on it being the life of the party. Watch out for photo bombs!

We know that no two weddings are alike, which is why we work with each couple to come up with a unique background and props that will match the style of the wedding. Give us complete creative freedom, or work closely with us as we bring your vision to life. Either way, we will make something that looks like it belongs in a magazine, and will make the pictures that much more special!

www.photomadicweddings.com

The post Photomadic Weddings appeared first on D Weddings.

On April 3, former People Newspapers reporter and D Weddings blogger Karley Kiker launched her much-anticipated book Hitched in a Hurry: The ultimate how-to for a speedy “I do”. The book idea originated right here on BridalBuzz with the Hitched in a Hurry column. Karley reported her personal experiences with planning a wedding in less than six months. “Planning my wedding in four and a half months was definitely a challenge, but I wouldn’t have had it any other way!” Karley says. “My husband was worth the wait, and marrying him was so worth the rush. I wrote Hitched in a Hurry so that other speedy brides will never be without the specialized planning information they need to plan the wedding—and begin the marriage—of their dreams.”

To celebrate the book launch we’ve got a big giveaway running on the blog this week. One lucky reader will win prizes and access to the very best wedding industry resources Dallas has to offer. Click here to enter to win. The giveaway ends Friday, April 11. The winner will receive the package outlined below. Two runners up will receive signed paperback copies of the book.

THE ULTIMATE ‘HITCHED IN A HURRY’ PLANNING PACKAGE GIVEAWAY

SIGNED PAPERBACK COPY OF HITCHED IN A HURRY + DIGITAL BONUS CHAPTER + HITCHED IN A HURRY NOTEPAD BY AUTHOR KARLEY KIKER—How quickly should you book your venue after getting engaged? What planning tasks should you delegate to your fiancé? Is it possible to wear a couture gown on your Big Day if you’re only going to be engaged for six months? Hitched in a Hurry answers all of these questions and more, and is the perfect starting point for your sprint toward the aisle. You’ll also receive an exclusive bonus chapter as a digital download titled “What Happily Ever After Really Means”—ideal for beachside reading during your honeymoon! Designed by Southern Fried Paper, each page of the adorable notepad contains tips and tricks for time-pressed chicks excerpted from Hitched in a Hurry. Pull it out of your purse to take notes while on the phone with your florist (and caterer, and DJ…)

Visit the website here.
Follow on Instagram: @hitched_in_a_hurry
Follow on Twitter.
Follow on Facebook.
Buy the book on Amazon.

BOX OF FOIL THANK YOU CARDS + BOX OF DIE CUT STATIONERY + GIFT CERTIFICATE FOR 100 PERSONALIZED FLAT CARD STATIONERY FROM SOUTHERN FRIED PAPER—As a bride-to-be, you’ll be receiving lots of gifts. (Hooray!) Lucky for our winner, the creative team at Southern Fried Paper has dished up an impressive giveaway that’s got all the write stuff for a bride on the fly. Say “thanks” in supremely southern style with gorgeous foil cards, practice your best cursive using a box of their die cut stationery, and enjoy using your gift certificate for 100 flat cards that are sure to impress your guests.

Visit the website here.
Follow on Instagram: @southernfriedpaper
Follow on Twitter.
Follow on Facebook.

15% OFF A GOWN FROM PATSY’S, A BRIDAL BOUTIQUE—Perhaps a strapless sweetheart is calling your name, or maybe your Pinterest board sports a bevy of beautiful ballgowns. No matter the bridal look you have in mind, you’ll find it at Patsy’s—the Oak Lawn boutique carries Marisa, La Sposa by Pronovias, and other designer labels that all boast distinct aisle-style. Use your 15% discount to purchase a fabulous frock and enjoy the feeling of crossing a major item off your To Do Before “I do” list.

Visit the website here.
Follow on Twitter.
Follow on Facebook.

COMPLIMENTARY CHECKLIST MEETING WITH DFW EVENTS—No clue where to start when it comes to planning your wedding? No problem! Enjoy an invaluable 90-minute planning session with Mary-Frances Hurt or Alison Baker of DFW Events—one of the leading wedding and event planning firms in Texas. Wondering how much money you should spend on a band or what kind of transportation arrangements you should make for out-of-town guests? Come prepared with your most perplexing questions. Using all of the tools and tricks of the trade, DFW Events will create a comprehensive, customized checklist based on your needs that is sure to become your go-to resource leading up to the Big Day. Consider this session the roadmap to the wedding of your dreams!

Visit the website here.
Follow on Facebook.

10% OFF WEDDING PLANNING SERVICES BY BELLA FLORA + 1 FREE BOUQUET FOR BRIDAL PORTRAITS—Okay, so you’ve read Hitched in a Hurry and received your customized checklist from DFW Events…but you’re still in need of a fabulous team to help design and execute your wedding. Turn to Bella Flora, a top-notch purveyor of luxury wedding looks, for all of your planning needs. In addition to a 10% discount on planning services (provided that they have availability on your wedding date), our winner will receive a gorgeous complimentary bouquet to be used during bridal portraits if she becomes a Bella Bride.

Visit the website here.
Follow on Instagram:@bflive
Follow on Twitter.
Follow on Facebook.

15% OFF BRIDAL PORTRAITS OR ENGAGEMENT SESSION WITH LAUREN GUY PHOTOGRAPHY—Haven’t had a spare moment for an engagement session? No bridal portraits on the books? No worries! Noted wedding, portrait, and dance photographer Lauren Guy Summersett is offering our winner a 15% discount that can be applied to any bridal or engagement session. Start practicing your poses!

Visit the website here.
Follow on Instagram: @lsummersett3
Follow on Facebook.

COMPLIMENTARY HAIR & MAKEUP TRIAL WITH KALEIGH SIMONS, THE STYLING STEWARDESS—Whether you’re looking for a wedding day ‘do or are in need of styling for your upcoming bridal shoot, on-location special event stylist Kaleigh Simons will help design a custom look just for you during a complimentary hair and makeup trial. If you’re planning on a destination wedding, keep in mind that Kaleigh is also a flight attendant—meaning she can fly to any locale at no extra charge to her clients.

Visit the website here.
Follow on Instagram: @the_styling_stewardess
Follow on Facebook.

The post Enter Today to Win the Hitched in a Hurry Giveaway appeared first on D Weddings.

Photo by Anna Smith Photography.

Becca and Paul met in 2008 when Becca was working for Wells Fargo. Paul was a customer of hers who would come in periodically and they would always strike up friendly conversation. However, they were both dating other people so it was more of a friendship than a romantic connection. Over the next four years, they continued to see one another at the bank and keep in contact. In the summer of 2012, Becca was single and had her eyes set on a particular person. Yep, you guessed it. Paul. He was still dating someone at that time, but in November they broke up. Becca ended up moving to a medical and legal sales position at D Magazine Partners and looked to Paul for advice since he works in the medical industry. They exchanged phone numbers and became Facebook friends and the relationship took off from there.

When Paul and Becca started talking “outside of the bank,” she asked him if he had ever been to Bar Belmont and suggested they go sometime. Ten months later, they still hadn’t made the trip to Oak Cliff to check it out. In October, Paul told Becca that he finally planned an outing to stay at the Belmont Hotel and dine at Smoke. She was a tad suspicious, but Paul kept his cool. After dinner, Paul suggested they run to the room before heading down to the pool area to check out the Dallas views. When they walked in there was Champagne and flowers set up. Becca was sure the big question was about to come. When they made it down to the pool, Paul got down on one knee in front of the beautiful view.

Becca went to Texas Tech University where she majored in advertising. After graduation, she earned an MBA from Texas A&M University – Commerce. She is a sales account manager for D Magazine Partners. Paul attended college at Lamar University and majored in communications. Paul works in sales and marketing for Up & Open Imaging. They will marry on October 3, 2014 at the Westin Stonebriar in Frisco, with a reception to follow.

The post Engaged: Becca Zumwalt and Paul Giarratano appeared first on D Weddings.

A look from Reem Acra’s Fall 2014 show. Get the latest on the new collections by following us on Instagram!

New York Bridal is this weekend with all the major designers–Monique, Vera, Carolina, Oscar–showing their latest looks. We will be posting all of our favorites on Instagram and you don’t want to miss it! We also promise behind-the-scenes pics from upcoming photo shoots, editorial meetings, and office happenings. Get to know the editors and follow us around the city as we uncover the best wedding finds. Follow us here.

The post Are You Following D Weddings on Instagram? Don’t Miss Out! appeared first on D Weddings.

A few of Dear Clark Hair Studio’s signature hair care products.

Brides deserve to look and feel their best on their big day, and we are here to help. From hair care and skincare to fitness and health tricks for wives-to-be, we’ve got you covered. Check back every Wednesday for advice, tips, and tricks from the local pros in beauty and health.

If you think about it, your hair is a pretty fragile entity. Or group of entities, I suppose. Thin strands bunched together, pulled into tight ponytails and buns, or overheated with irons. Sprayed with chemicals and trimmed only a couple times yearly (if you’re anything like me). Dyed, highlighted, ombréd, painted purple like Katy Perry’s, or stripped of natural oils. We put those guys through the ringer, so when it comes to prepping your hair for what should be one of the biggest days of your life, it’s no overnight task.

That’s why I’ve talked to Kaycee Clark, hairstylist and co-owner of Dear Clark Hair Studio (a 2013 Best of Big D best salons winner). She suggests setting up a detailed plan with your stylist and colorist as you prepare for the big day. Scheduling regular trims is key (whoops), and either at-home or in-salon deep conditioning treatments are an absolute must. The months leading up to the wedding are loads more important than the week prior for maintaining healthy hair.

Clark recommends using heat-protecting serums before using blow dryers and curling or flat irons, and never crank them hotter than 350 degrees. During the sunnier months of the year, try wearing hats more often. Lucky for you, wide-brimmed fedoras are totally chic right now. And if ever frequenting a pool party (which, come on, it’s almost summertime in Dallas – you’re going to be frequenting a pool party), coat your hair with conditioner before the chlorine gets to it. Dry hair is like a sponge, Clark says, but uber moisturized hair will repel water and harmful chemicals.

As for the big count down, it is best to get your highlights or touch-ups done about seven to ten days ‘til the day of. The hair color will appear fresh, healthy, and shiny, and you won’t have to sweat the thought of roots sneaking into wedding photos.

The post BridalBuzz Beauty Guide: How To Get Your Healthiest-Looking Hair appeared first on D Weddings.

Natalie and Chase always knew of one another while they attended Southern Methodist University, but didn’t officially meet until senior year. They had a class together and were assigned as joint members on a project. Through the time spent together working on the project, they got to know one another better and their relationship took off—quickly—from there. They were engaged a year and a half after graduation.

Natalie and Chase wanted the look of their wedding to be timeless, romantic, and elegant. Natalie, a self-proclaimed “flower person” wanted most of the color to come out in their arrangements. “The feminine and classic look of ivory, vanilla, petal pink, celadon, and soft coral was exactly the combination I wanted, ” she says. Looking back, one of her favorite moments of the day was when her mother surprised her with a beautiful piece of fabric from her own wedding gown that was sewn to the inside of her gown with her new initials embroidered in blue.

Ceremony Site: Highland Park United Methodist
Photographer: Andrea Polito Photography
Paper Products: Neiman Marcus
Bridal Gown Designer: Liancarlo
Bridal Gown Retailer: The Bridal Salon at Neiman Marcus
Hair & Makeup: Maitee Miles
Groom’s Attire: Isaia
Bridesmaid Dresses Designer: Amsale
Bridesmaid Dresses Retailer: Bella Bridesmaid
Flowers: Garden Gate
Reception Venue: Warwick Melrose Hotel
Wedding Cake: Panini Bakery
Entertainment: Signed Sealed Delivered
Videographer: Summer Satterfield
Lighting: Absolute Entertainment
Wedding Planner and Designer: Crystal Frasier Weddings

The post Natalie Bornowski & Chase Proctor appeared first on D Weddings.

Today is the last day to enter the Hitched in a Hurry giveaway! What does that mean? You will win a basket of prizes that includes access to some of the most well-known wedding vendors in town! Click here to enter to win. And what exactly do you get? Read on:

THE ULTIMATE ‘HITCHED IN A HURRY’ PLANNING PACKAGE GIVEAWAY

SIGNED PAPERBACK COPY OF HITCHED IN A HURRY + DIGITAL BONUS CHAPTER + HITCHED IN A HURRY NOTEPAD BY AUTHOR KARLEY KIKER—How quickly should you book your venue after getting engaged? What planning tasks should you delegate to your fiancé? Is it possible to wear a couture gown on your Big Day if you’re only going to be engaged for six months? Hitched in a Hurry answers all of these questions and more, and is the perfect starting point for your sprint toward the aisle. You’ll also receive an exclusive bonus chapter as a digital download titled “What Happily Ever After Really Means”—ideal for beachside reading during your honeymoon! Designed by Southern Fried Paper, each page of the adorable notepad contains tips and tricks for time-pressed chicks excerpted from Hitched in a Hurry. Pull it out of your purse to take notes while on the phone with your florist (and caterer, and DJ…)

Visit the website here.
Follow on Instagram: @hitched_in_a_hurry
Follow on Twitter.
Follow on Facebook.
Buy the book on Amazon.

BOX OF FOIL THANK YOU CARDS + BOX OF DIE CUT STATIONERY + GIFT CERTIFICATE FOR 100 PERSONALIZED FLAT CARD STATIONERY FROM SOUTHERN FRIED PAPER—As a bride-to-be, you’ll be receiving lots of gifts. (Hooray!) Lucky for our winner, the creative team at Southern Fried Paper has dished up an impressive giveaway that’s got all the write stuff for a bride on the fly. Say “thanks” in supremely southern style with gorgeous foil cards, practice your best cursive using a box of their die cut stationery, and enjoy using your gift certificate for 100 flat cards that are sure to impress your guests.

Visit the website here.
Follow on Instagram: @southernfriedpaper
Follow on Twitter.
Follow on Facebook.

15% OFF A GOWN FROM PATSY’S, A BRIDAL BOUTIQUE—Perhaps a strapless sweetheart is calling your name, or maybe your Pinterest board sports a bevy of beautiful ballgowns. No matter the bridal look you have in mind, you’ll find it at Patsy’s—the Oak Lawn boutique carries Marisa, La Sposa by Pronovias, and other designer labels that all boast distinct aisle-style. Use your 15% discount to purchase a fabulous frock and enjoy the feeling of crossing a major item off your To Do Before “I do” list.

Visit the website here.
Follow on Twitter.
Follow on Facebook.

COMPLIMENTARY CHECKLIST MEETING WITH DFW EVENTS—No clue where to start when it comes to planning your wedding? No problem! Enjoy an invaluable 90-minute planning session with Mary-Frances Hurt or Alison Baker of DFW Events—one of the leading wedding and event planning firms in Texas. Wondering how much money you should spend on a band or what kind of transportation arrangements you should make for out-of-town guests? Come prepared with your most perplexing questions. Using all of the tools and tricks of the trade, DFW Events will create a comprehensive, customized checklist based on your needs that is sure to become your go-to resource leading up to the Big Day. Consider this session the roadmap to the wedding of your dreams!

Visit the website here.
Follow on Facebook.

10% OFF WEDDING PLANNING SERVICES BY BELLA FLORA + 1 FREE BOUQUET FOR BRIDAL PORTRAITS—Okay, so you’ve read Hitched in a Hurry and received your customized checklist from DFW Events…but you’re still in need of a fabulous team to help design and execute your wedding. Turn to Bella Flora, a top-notch purveyor of luxury wedding looks, for all of your planning needs. In addition to a 10% discount on planning services (provided that they have availability on your wedding date), our winner will receive a gorgeous complimentary bouquet to be used during bridal portraits if she becomes a Bella Bride.

Visit the website here.
Follow on Instagram:@bflive
Follow on Twitter.
Follow on Facebook.

15% OFF BRIDAL PORTRAITS OR ENGAGEMENT SESSION WITH LAUREN GUY PHOTOGRAPHY—Haven’t had a spare moment for an engagement session? No bridal portraits on the books? No worries! Noted wedding, portrait, and dance photographer Lauren Guy Summersett is offering our winner a 15% discount that can be applied to any bridal or engagement session. Start practicing your poses!

Visit the website here.
Follow on Instagram: @lsummersett3
Follow on Facebook.

COMPLIMENTARY HAIR & MAKEUP TRIAL WITH KALEIGH SIMONS, THE STYLING STEWARDESS—Whether you’re looking for a wedding day ‘do or are in need of styling for your upcoming bridal shoot, on-location special event stylist Kaleigh Simons will help design a custom look just for you during a complimentary hair and makeup trial. If you’re planning on a destination wedding, keep in mind that Kaleigh is also a flight attendant—meaning she can fly to any locale at no extra charge to her clients.

Visit the website here.
Follow on Instagram: @the_styling_stewardess
Follow on Facebook.

The post Today Is the Last Day to Enter the Hitched in a Hurry Giveaway appeared first on D Weddings.

You can find the Anne Barge collection at Stanley Korshak.

Trunk shows are a great way to see more of a designer’s dresses than are normally carried in a store. You’ll have more to choose from, so don’t miss out! Click the links below for all the details.

Island Bridal Trunk Show at StarDust Celebrations

Anne Barge Black Label Trunk Show at The Bridal Salon at Stanley Korshak

The post Trunk Show Scoop: Island Bridal and Anne Barge Black Label appeared first on D Weddings.

You have until end of the day THIS Wednesday to enter to win a gift card from Belk! To refresh your memory, here are the details: North Carolina-based department store Belk has opened a Dallas location at Galleria Dallas in the former Saks Fifth Avenue space. The retailer has more than 300 locations across the U.S. (including four in the DFW area). We are so excited about their local arrival that we have has teamed up to give a bride-to-be a $750 gift card. It’s the perfect opportunity to get some of the pricey items on your registry (KitchenAid stand mixer, anyone?) or load up on items for your first home. You could even shop the Samsonite luggage selection to take on your honeymoon. The possibilities are endless.

It’s easy to enter. Go here and fill out the form. All we need is your basic information (don’t worry, it’s not a lengthy form) and we’ll notify the winner on Thursday, April 17. Good luck!

The post Reminder: Enter to Win a $750 Gift Card to Belk Department Stores appeared first on D Weddings.

Jimmy and Abby’s knew of one another before they actually “met.” Abby was friends with his younger brother Jack and their dads happened to share an office in St. Thomas. When they were vacationing over Christmas break of 2005 in the Virgin Islands, Jimmy’s family invited her on a boat trip for the day. After having the best time with Jimmy, they kept in touch, but went off to their different colleges – Jimmy to the University of Kansas and Abby to the University of Pennsylvania. When they both graduated, they moved back to their hometown of Dallas and ran into one another in August of 2009. Jimmy asked Abby for her number and invited her out to dinner. Before long, they were trying to figure out how to get back to St. Thomas to vacation as a couple.

Abby and Jimmy were excited to plan a trip to their beloved St. Thomas. The day they arrived, the couple planned to go out on the boat with Jimmy’s father. They woke up early to get a head start on the day, Abby threw on a bikini and cover up not thinking much about the day’s plans and headed towards the boat. They decided on Francis Bay to grab something to eat and Jimmy suggested they hang out on the front of the boat and enjoy the morning while relaxing and watching the seagulls. When Jimmy got up to walk to the back of the boat, Abby turned around and he was on one knee clutching the ring in his hands afraid they might knock it in the water due to excitement. She was ecstatic and said yes. Abby says, “He truly could not have proposed in a more perfect and special place in our lives.” They enjoyed the rest of the trip celebrating their engagement.

Abby graduated from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in finance. She is a principal at Tice Capital, LLC. Jimmy graduated from the University of Kansas with a bachelor degree in economics and minor in business administration. He is an associate at Markit in the Corporate Actions group. The couple will marry October 18, 2014 at Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church with a reception to follow at Brook Hollow Golf Club.

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We have a very special Ask the Expert today featuring the latest trends in wedding dress fashion. Elle Warren Harman and Cecilia Flores-Barrón, co-owners of the Snider Plaza bridal boutique Warren Barrón, are dishing on their favorite looks from last weekend’s New York Bridal Market. Here’s what they saw and what they loved.

Austin Scarlett

Austin Scarlett’s latest collection is art deco-inspired, featuring beautiful necklines and flattering cuts.

Carolina Herrera

Carolina Herrera’s stunning collection features plunging v-necklines and light weight gowns. Even the fuller gowns are lighter than ever before and many gowns feature pockets for the bride to store anything she may need on her big day.

Elizabeth Fillmore

Elizabeth Fillmore’s spring collection highlights a whimsical, ethereal, garden motif. Straying from the traditional white gown, her new colors boast a touch of nude and rose.

Lela Rose

The latest gowns from Lela Rose boast low beaded backs and lace and beaded jackets to accompany beautifully plain gowns.

Marchesa

Soft chiffon gowns in blush colors with necklines other than strapless are the latest trend in Marchesa’s bridal collection.

Monique Lhuillier

Monique Lhuillier’s new collection strays from warm tones and embraces cooler, misty tones. Short sleeved sheer jackets with beading and lace add to the old time glamorous feel of her latest gowns, many of which are made with tulle.

Monique Lhuillier Platinum

Monique Lhuillier’s latest gowns from her Platinum collection, including one in periwinkle, will turn heads with their high-low cuts and unique floral-inspired trains.

Romona Keveza

Romona Keveza’s new couture line features uber sleek silhouettes that are timeless and beautifully made. Several of her gowns include a metal belt that made the gowns stand out from any others.

Ulla-Maija

Ulla-Maija’s spring collection includes beautiful, clean gowns that show off the high-quality fabric and a bride’s figure without any embellishment. Nude underlining is also trending in this year’s collection.

Vera Wang

Vera’s latest collection is all about tulle: French tulle, pleated tulle, and other tulle techniques. It also features fashion-forward lace patterns and lingerie-inspired thin lines and dramatic backs. You can see Vera’s collection here.

The post Ask the Expert: Bridal Market Report appeared first on D Weddings.

A floral crown as seen in the Fall/Winter 2013 issue of D Weddings.

I have always loved styling hair. I did all my friends’ hair on the weekends in high school, and once I even braided my entire dance team’s locks for our senior state competition. (Ahem, humble brag: We won. I attribute the sweet braided ponies.) I’m continuously interested in fun new trends and have a daily battle between whether I should keep growing my hair out or chop it off. Some people call it an obsession; I just call it love.

Whether you keep a long mane or a shorter ‘do, the hairstyles out there are limitless. So how do you choose what to do for the most special of events, your wedding? Don’t ask me because clearly I’m indecisive on the matter. But, we’re all in luck: Blair Masloski, hairstylist at a 2013 Best of Big D best salons winner The Songbird Society, is in the process of planning her nuptials for this summer. That means she’s essentially a pro on bridal hairdos, so listen up for her favorite trends she’s seen this spring.

Floral headpieces. Whether wrapped around in a floral crown or clipped into a loose messy bun, flower hairpieces are in full bloom right now. They bring a rustic chic element to her look, perfect for the flower child bride having a garden wedding.

Vintage clips. Reminiscent of the roaring ‘20s, vintage clips allow for a bride to sport a Gatsby-esque look while maintaining effortless class. Typically, vintage clips will incorporate some sort of feather detail with pearl or diamond elements.

Headbands. Dainty chain crowns or crystal hairpieces are amongst your options for headbands. The first speaks to the hip, young bride, while the second is ideal for a bride aiming for sophisticated elegance.

Soft up- or down-dos. Keeping it simple and effortless is always a good idea. Soft waves, either pinned up loosely or left alone, trump a slick and shellacked hairstyle, which Masloski says is too much. The aim is to look like an enhanced version of you for your wedding, so venturing outside your norm too much can be risky.

Audrey Swanson is a D Weddings and D Home intern.

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