Aqua and Silver Snowflake Wedding

This pretty design is perfect for your winter wedding. The background is a bright white with small aqua blue and silver snowflakes. At opposite corners there are two modern aqua snowflake graphic designs and finally, an aqua border ties everything together. This set has invitations, save the date cards, response cards, thank you cards, table number tent cards, envelope seals, wine labels, binders, return address labels, a reception wall decor, and much more available. Use the envelope seal stickers for any of your DIY gifts - these are available in both large and small sizes! For matching items in this set **CLICK HERE**.

Aqua and Silver Snowflake Wedding Invitation by NoteableExpressions

Product Details
Size: 5" x 7" Invitation

Make custom invitations and announcements for every special occasion! Add photos and text to both sides of this flat card for free.

    5" x 7" (portrait) or 7" x 5" (landscape). Additional sizes available.
    High quality, full-color, full-bleed printing on both sides.
    20 unique paper types and colors.
    Standard white envelope included.
    Premium Envelopments pocket folds, colored envelopes, and envelope liners available.
    Postage rate for this size invitation (up to 1 oz.) is $0.49.

Paper Type: Basic
A crisp professional paper with a smooth semi-glossy finish designed for vibrant full-color printing. 110lb cover-weight. 50% recycled content (10% post-consumer and 40% pre-consumer waste).
 

Exciting New Wedding Trends for 2014

As 2013 comes to a close, it’s time once again to look into the future and see what new wedding trends are in store for the newlyweds of 2014. Tastes and trends are always changing, whether it’s new technology or designer fashions, and weddings are no different. Every year the arbiters of fashion offer new and exciting designs for wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses, wedding planners unveil new themes and styles, and caterers explore new ways to wow the wedding party with extravagant cakes and unique culinary experiences. Let’s look at some hot new trends for weddings, and see what 2014 has in store for the happy couple.

Wedding Themes for 2014

Whether overt or subtle, themed weddings are always popular, and that trend is set to continue into the new year. 2014 will see the return of some popular themes as seen on Pinterest, as well as trends that reflect the cultural zeitgeist of the year. The following is just a sample of the popular wedding themes we’ll be seeing in the new year.

Vintage – Everything old is new again, and vintage themed weddings continue to be popular with both brides and grooms. The romantic atmosphere of the wedding day is easily enhanced by incorporating vintage design touches in the bride and grooms attire, and including vintage and distressed items in the reception decor.
Bohemian – Pop culture is currently embracing a return to nature and a new appreciation of simplicity. Bohemian themed weddings reflect the individuality of the wedding couple, and embraces an all natural approach to the wedding attire and the receptions décor. Think long flowing hair for the bride and bridesmaids, and a profusion of wild flowers for the reception.

Pop Art – Color and youthful energy are the prime motivators here. Bright solid colors, and trendy dresses for the bridesmaids offset the traditional white wedding dress of the bride. Receptions are an explosion of color and movement, taking their cue from trendy nightclubs.
  
Tre Elegante – Elegant weddings are always in style, and 2014 will be no different. Traditional wedding attire for the the bride and groom, and an elegant decor for the reception speaks of the style and taste that never goes out of fashion.

Wedding Decor

In 2014 less will be more. Whatever the theme, the trend for the new year in decor will be reserved and understated. Even if you’re planning a pop art themed wedding, you will want to be strategic with your decorations or even make them personal. The idea is to let the colors speak for themselves, and to not overwhelm the guests with an avalanche of decorations. These are some of the decorating trends that will take center stage in 2014.

Rustic – This harkens back to the bohemian themed wedding. Rustic, and often mismatched, fabrics can be used to decorated the event space, providing a natural and relaxed atmosphere. Tablescapes rely on old-timey accents, like mason jars, to bring home the rustic theme.

Vintage – A few antique pieces of furniture always lends a wedding a sense of style. Whether your wedding theme is elegant or casual, vintage furniture and antique accents, adds a sense of permanence and solidity to the proceedings. Vintage accents can be anything from an antique loveseat to a beloved grandmother’s well traveled steamer trunk.
  
Bistro Lighting – Strings of low level lights help to create an intimate and romantic atmosphere, much like a French bistro. This is perfect for smaller wedding receptions. One tip, however, for couples thinking about special lighting features for their reception. Be sure to check with your event space about any restrictions concerning lighting and electrical features. Venues have strict regulations that they must follow, and not every venue will be able to accommodate unique lighting features. That being said, some venues may provide a choice of lighting fixtures for their customers.

Every year brings with it a fresh array of wedding trends. Of course, the important thing to remember is that this is your wedding day, and the theme and decor should match your desires not those of the wedding planner. Let the style of your wedding reflect your taste and interests, and you are guaranteed to be happy with the results.

Celebrate life your way!
~Nique

Luxe trends take over winter weddings

November is already here! Can you believe it? Now that the colder months are upon us, winter weddings are on the mind. Here are some of the latest winter wedding trends for the 2013-2014 season:
 {1} Luxe Venues. With the wedding industry in an off season during the winter months, luxe wedding venues are becoming a favorite for couples. Special offers are driving this trend and venues are looking to bring in business during these off months. Couples can get those wow factor venues that may be out of their budget in the summer months.


{2} Laser Cut Invitations. Whether the invitation itself has laser cut corners, or you opt for a laser cut belly band, this technique is perfect for winter weddings. The style will add a luxe look while giving a nod to a season favorite, snowflakes.



{3} Candles Galore. Add warmth to your wedding space by adorning your venue with candles. Opt for tall taper candles in candelabras or floating candles in mismatched glass containers. For dramatic effect add luxe gold table linens to enhance this glow.

{4} Vintage Glam. Think Great Gatsby or Downton Abbey. A glamourous twist on the vintage trend that is taking the wedding industry by storm. Add in embellishments, metallics, and rich fabrics to traditional vintage touches, like lace and heirloom pieces. Music is also key. Opt for a big band or have your DJ play classic 20s and 30s music.

{5} Snowy Touches. Whether it's braving the cold weather to get some beautiful snowy photos, or incorporating snow like elements into you decor, don't be afraid to embrace the season. Try using cotton in your florals, dainty hanging crystals, or an appetizer ice display. You can even bring the snow to your wedding with ecofetti, faux confetti that looks like snow. Perfect for tossing right after you say I do.

Black and White Weddings - Always in Style!

Is there anything more sophisticated than a classic black and white wedding? It’s a color scheme that never goes out of style and is both elegant and contemporary. And just because it’s usually associated with more formal affairs, don’t think you can’t have fun and be playful with it. To keep it modern and fresh, simply add in a little texture, throw in some pops of color or play with pattern–polka dots, anyone?

 Black and white wedding gowns are so hot right now

 If you’re particularly daring bride and black accents just won’t cut it for you, you could always opt for an all black ensemble. The addition of sequins and metallic accessories will keep it looking chic, glamorous, and celebration ready.

 The classic black tuxedo is the obvious choice when it comes to groom attire, but why not flip that look on its head instead with a white tuxedo jacket with black trim? Or, you could have a little fun with the accessories and by choosing a polka dot bow tie or pocket square.

Black and white decor details can be dramatic or understated depending on the feel you’re going for, but like with any color scheme, keeping things simple will provide the most impact.

Black and White Filigree Vintage Scroll Wedding Personalized Invitation by NoteableExpressions

To see more Black and White Wedding Invitations - visit Noteable Expressions 

2014 Bridal Beauty Trend: Natural Makeup

It's the season of engagements! It seems like so many couples are taking the next step towards 'I do.' From Lauren Conrad, to Naya Rivera, Scarlett Johansson, Ginnifer Goodwin, Ashley Tisdale, Ciara, and Kim Kardashian, many stars are planning to become blushing brides. But based on 2014 wedding trends, they might wanna lay off the blush a bit.

Following the minimal makeup trend we've been seeing since the summer and well into the fall, the bridal trend for 2014 is natural. Professional makeup artist, Jules Cardozo-Marsh agrees. With twelve years' experience, Jules has worked with countless brides and some of the world's biggest brands, including Guess, Puma, and L'Oreal.

Jules explained the look many brides will be sporting down the aisle to Beauty4Media. "The 2014 bridal look is all about effortlessly chic, effervescent beauty: enhancing a bride's best features so she looks and feels like the most gorgeous version of herself when she walks down the aisle."

STYLE CHAT: From Beading to Lace, You’ll Commit to These 6 Chic Bridal Trends!

Finding the perfect wedding dress is one of the most important decisions a fashionista will make, so it’s important to go in with a plan so that you can find the gown that fits your personality and needs.

Bridal expert Carine Krawiec, who owns Carine’s Bridal Atelier in D.C., knows her way around a wedding gown — to say the least — and has dropped by CocoaFab to share her tips for finding THE dress and reveals the six top of-the-moment fashion trends in bridal for 2014.

Keep reading for her tips and then scroll through the gallery to check out some of the chicest gowns around.

1) Location, location, location.  Each venue can change what style of gown you will wear.

2) Keep an open mind.  Select a few gowns that you thought you’d never wear. You never know, it could be the one!

3) Mind the company you keep.  Bring people to your appointment whose opinion you value and who will bring positive energy.

4) Don’t forget the budget. Know what you want to spend because if you fall in love with a gown that’s out of your budget, it can really break your heart.

5) Don’t get overwhelmed. Remember, this is the fun part! Enjoy every minute if it.

New season, new hues

"Following the lead from trends set during the Haute Couture Fall 2013 season, bridal collections are showcasing nudes, blushes and greys for brides. Monique Lhuillier’s rose gold embroidery mixed with layers of blush tulle is a good example of the trend, as is Zuhair Murad’s stunning flower-encrusted nude gown, seen here. The soft tones will make it easier for brides to step away from traditional white and ivory without making them regret their decision years down the road."

Raising the hemline

"I'm frequently asked, 'Do you know where I can buy a short white dress?' After this season, they will be easy to find. Designers like Jenny Lee, seen here, created short dresses for all parts of a wedding celebration, including engagement parties, bridal showers, receptions and rehearsal dinners. Carolina Herrera’s Fall 2014 line consisted entirely of tea-length and cocktail dresses. Marchesa added a few short dresses to their line, including one of my favorites: a strapless lace with cascading flower details. Brides will have a huge selection this season to find a short dress perfect for the occasion."

Make an exit

"Making an entrance is important for a bride, but this season is all about the exit, as designers focus on creating unforgettable back details. In past seasons, key hole backs were the standard, yet this season, designers are focused on incorporating an art nouveau touch. Miami-based designer Liancarlo created an irresistible re-embroidered chantilly lace low-back gown, and Toronto-based designer Rivini played with soft finishes of lace to decorate the curves of a bride's back. The Monique Lhuillier gown seen here has a beautifully-constructed back."

Lacy arm candy

"Lace sleeves will be trickling down the arms of brides this season. These sleeves are filled with chantilly lace, feather stitching and re-embroidered lace. Designers created unique patterns, playing with the layout of the fabric. Monique Lhuillier create a basket weave shoulder detail, seen on the gown here, and Marchesa constructed flower garden sleeves. Every bride has the option of choosing a traditional look with a new modern lace twist."

Plunging V necklines

"A trend seen on the runways that echoed in the bridal Fall 2014 shows are V necklines, which became a staple in almost all the collections this season. Rita Vinieris, designer for Rivini, introduced this neckline for the first time in a few of her gowns. Marchesa also playfully added V-necks to their romantic bridal collection. Temperley London, seen here, created a romantic V-neck embellished with organza flower accents and beading that begins to form floral and leaf patterns."

Beading, beading, beading!

"Bridal gowns in 2014 will light up the night if the beading shown at bridal market is any indication!vTouches of sequins, caviar beads, glass and silver beading graced the Fall 2014 collections.vBeading helps create a romantic and glamorous look, and designers like Liancarlo mixed pearls and beading together to create an icy look on a classic sheath gown. Monique Lhuillier decided to add caviar glass beads to her sheath-like 'Gwyneth' gown. Even the short dress collection by Carolina Herrera, seen here, had jeweled illusion necklines. Beading is in and hopefully it's here to stay!"

Read the full article here: http://cocoafab.com/style-chat-from-beading-to-lace-youll-commit-to-these-6-chic-bridal-trends/?slide=1

New season, new hues

"Following the lead from trends set during the Haute Couture Fall 2013 season, bridal collections are showcasing nudes, blushes and greys for brides. Monique Lhuillier’s rose gold embroidery mixed with layers of blush tulle is a good example of the trend, as is Zuhair Murad’s stunning flower-encrusted nude gown, seen here. The soft tones will make it easier for brides to step away from traditional white and ivory without making them regret their decision years down the road." - See more at: http://cocoafab.com/style-chat-from-beading-to-lace-youll-commit-to-these-6-chic-bridal-trends/?slide=2#sthash.CPRcAcgD.dpuf

New season, new hues

"Following the lead from trends set during the Haute Couture Fall 2013 season, bridal collections are showcasing nudes, blushes and greys for brides. Monique Lhuillier’s rose gold embroidery mixed with layers of blush tulle is a good example of the trend, as is Zuhair Murad’s stunning flower-encrusted nude gown, seen here. The soft tones will make it easier for brides to step away from traditional white and ivory without making them regret their decision years down the road." - See more at: http://cocoafab.com/style-chat-from-beading-to-lace-youll-commit-to-these-6-chic-bridal-trends/?slide=2#sthash.CPRcAcgD.dpuf

8 Wedding Trends That Are Still Going Strong

2013 weddings were full of amazing trends, from metallic details to family-style tables to Gatsby glamor. We're getting excited to see what the next year will hold, so we asked wedding professionals from all around the country to predict which ideas will be even more popular in 2014. Check out the growing requests that they're receiving from brides!

1. Camp-style weddings: Weddings at summer camps are popping up more and more because there is ample space to accommodate overnight guests but also multiple venues (all conveniently located on one property) to host different pre- and post-wedding celebrations." Rider Strong of Boy Meets World fame recently got hitched in a camp-style wedding, and so did Matthew McConaughey.

2. The English garden look: Michelle Hoffner of Paper Antler photography is seeing a switch to more "locally grown wildflower bouquets" than traditional florist bouquets. Some brides are even including bouquet-making as a wedding weekend event!

Peach Orchid Watercolor Posh Wedding Personalized Invites by NoteableExpressions

3. Custom Wedding Invitations: Whether it is tweeking the colors so they match your fabulous scheme or getting a custom monogram designed specially for you - having the artist involved helps you make your special day even more special.

4. Shabby-chic seating: Jeni Maus of Found Vintage Rentals is receiving a lot of inquiries for mix-and-match furniture. She thinks "mixing couches, upholstered chairs and pews for the ceremony seating" will be a huge upcoming trend!

5. Non-floral centerpieces: Tabletops are becoming a pure reflection of the couple and not always being covered in florals. I see a table filled with amazing candlesticks and a romantic glow or geometric shapes and pops of color.

6. Bold-is-better lipstick: Danika Lamb of Artistry By Danika thinks brides in 2014 are going to continue "showcasing more ‘pops’ of color on their lips. Adding a bold lip that is still feminine and pretty is a fun change from the typical ‘bridal’ look."

7. Dramatic, short veils: Many makeup artists are getting a lot more requests these days for "voluminous bubble veils with a lot of height!" They’ll be sure to make more appearances in 2014 weddings.

8. Patterned robes for primping: Many are seeing more attention being paid to the "getting ready" outfits that bridal parties are wearing to be photographed pre-wedding. They’re predicting to "see more bridal parties in matching patterns in the coming year."

Red and White Winter Wedding

This beautiful and elegant winter design, called Red and White Winter Wedding, has a beautiful bright white background. On the invitation, there is a red border with a white inset for your text. To the left side there is a red modern Christmas tree graphic. This set has invitations, save the date cards, response cards, thank you cards, table number tent cards, envelope seals, wine labels, binders, return address labels, a reception wall decor, and much more available. Use the envelope seal stickers for any of your DIY gifts - these are available in both large and small sizes!

For matching items in this set **CLICK HERE**.

11 Wedding Trends on the Decline

It’s no secret that wedding trends come and go, and today’s modern bride is always searching for new, now, and next. Some trends are going out the window completely, while others are simply evolving with fresh twists on old traditions. Here is a list of 11 wedding trends on the decline.

1. Double-Sided Buffets: Many couples are hesitant about buffets to begin with, desiring the more elegant approach of a plated meal. Double-sided buffets may speed up traditional buffet service, but they do take up additional reception floor space because they have to be pulled away from the walls. This can encroach on space that couples could otherwise use to set up unique reception elements, such as a mix of square and round tables or diamond shaped dance floors.

2. Mashed Potato Bars: Who doesn’t love a mashed potato bar, really? This was a tough call, but we are seeing couples mix up their novelty food bars a bit– going with lighter fare, seasonal or regional options, and specialty cuisine (think sushi, yum)!

3. Strangers as Guests: Paring down your guest list to only your closest friends and family will allow you to stretch your budget. Skip the out-of-touch college friends from Facebook, inviting every coworker, or distant relatives– not to mention their dates, some of whom you may not even know. It also allows the couple to spend more time mingling, dancing, and taking photos with their smaller group of guests.

4. Large Bridal Parties: With couples marrying a little later in life, on average, the likelihood of having close siblings, childhood friends, college pals and work buddies to choose from for your bridal party has increased. Large bridal parties can add significantly to wedding expenses such as bouquets, gifts, hair and makeup, etc. They can also potentially make things more hectic on the wedding day, from getting ready to getting down the aisle. We think this is why bridal parties of more than three or four attendants on each side are on the decline.

5. Wildflowers: Here’s a trend that is not fading out entirely, but rather taking on new shapes. With the upshot in the trend towards brunch receptions and garden parties, soft and elegant floral is still in, featuring heartier garden-style cut floral than the daintier field-variety we have seen in recent years.

6. The Dollar Dance: We have received markedly fewer requests for the Dollar Dance at recent weddings. Some find it lighthearted and in good fun, while others find it flat out tacky to dance for a few dollars. As with all elements of your wedding, trendy or not, it’s how you look at it that counts!

7. Cupcakes as Wedding Cakes: Another trend with a twist, cupcakes are still going strong; however, the standard cupcake tower is being replaced by more creative displays, including miniature cakes and additional pastries (see next trend for details)!

8. Wedding Cakes as Lone Desserts: The lone wedding cake seems to be out of favor for now, with a variety of desserts such as pies, cupcakes, cake pops, tarts, cookies, macaroons, donuts and custom ice cream flavors joining the party. A dessert buffet ensures that everyone’s sweet tooth is satisfied. Opt for a setup with different levels of cakes stands or tiered trays against a decorative backdrop to really ‘wow’ your guests!

9. Standard Menus: This one is really on the hotel or caterer– as in, offering menus to prospective clients with the standard “one type of chicken” is out. Offering brides sophisticated and personalized options makes all the difference in securing business these days, so be sure to look for a venue that will work with you, within your budget, to create a more personalized menu for you and your guests to enjoy!

10. Bouquet and Garter Toss: This tradition will likely always continue in one form or another, but with many couples opting for more intimate celebrations, that may only leave one or two eligible bachelors or bachelorettes to participate. It’s something to consider ahead of time and perhaps opt instead to do a more symbolic, “honorary” toss to a special person (perhaps a sibling who is engaged).

11. Matching Bridesmaid Dresses: This has been on the decline for a while, but I wanted to give it a nod on this list anyway. Selecting bridesmaids dresses that coordinate in color or fabric, but with necklines, sleeves, and shapes to flatter each individual bridesmaid is not only chic, it is also greatly appreciated! Your girls will look their best and party the day away in greater comfort.

Red and White Snowflake Winter Wedding

This beautiful and elegant design, called Red White Snowflake Winter Wedding, has a beautiful red background with a shaded effect. There is a white stripe and snowflake border on either side with an elaborate floral ampersand graphic for the bride and groom names. This would be perfect for your winter or Christmas theme wedding or event! This set has invitations, save the date cards, response cards, thank you cards, table number tent cards, envelope seals, wine labels, binders, and return address labels available. Use the envelope seal stickers for any of your DIY gifts - these are available in both large and small sizes!

For matching items in this set **CLICK HERE**.

Falling for Fall Weddings

 For those waiting until next fall, start planning the details now, because these trends are so fabulous that you can bet they’ll be carried all the way into next year’s wedding season!

Glitzy & Glam with an element of simple sophistication is where many brides are headed this fall all the way into winter. Think chandeliers lighting up an outdoor wedding, fine china, romantic blush tones and custom linens. A sit down dinner with updated versions of traditional entrees – encrusted beef tenderloin or a Chicken Sedona –  will be most popular and in keeping with the somewhat formal vibe. Concentrated glitter accents, like shimmery monograms, are a great way to add some flair and fun without going overboard.

Darker jewel tones bring pops of color to an event without feeling summery. Looking to the color gods, Pantone’s Koi, Samba and Acai are our favorite fall color trends. If you are a pumpkin lover (like me!), Koi gives you a chance to really bring it into your reception. Painted white pumpkin table accents, creamy pumpkin and squash soup and Mini Pumpkin donuts with spiced cider are subtle ways to bring in the festive flavor without being too “Halloweeny.”

Combine Samba (dark red) and Acai (dark purple) for a rustic wine country vibe during the earlier (aka warmer!) months of fall.

Our favorite trend has got to be the food truck experience that brides insist on bringing to guests. We’re talking smaller plates of all varieties, with unique themes like “St. Louis Hill” Italian or a deviled egg bar. What better way to please all of your guests’ palates, while creating a fun and social atmosphere.

Smaller bites of comfort food like baked mac & cheese bites during cocktail hour, cinnamon buttered rolls or a S’mores bar for dessert are great additions to really contribute that cozy and warm feeling of fall.




So which Fall trends will you be incorporating into your wedding - this year or next?

Top Winter Wedding Trends for 2013

With winter weddings on the rise, the 2013 season is wrapped in romance. Brides are finding novel ways to inject old-world charm into their modern wedding attire and décor, which is being inspired by everything from The Hobbit to Twilight to Kate Middleton.

From princess-style cap sleeves to billowing bell sleeves, arm candy of any style or length is a must-have for a winter wedding. If your heart is set on a sweetheart neckline, decorate your arms with a pair of trendy lace gloves that reach your elbows. Drape an enchanting bolero, faux fur stole, pashmina shawl or cashmere wrap around your shoulders when you get chilly.

Also on trend right now are floor-length gowns that sparkle with crystals and float with feathers. Soft, modest ruffles are created using tulle, organza and chiffon, while backs become a bit risqué with plunging V-necks and peekaboo cutouts that are covered with sheer fabrics.

To complement the flowing gowns, fingertip veils edged with simple satin and pearls or stunning appliqué lace and sequins are making a dramatic appearance at winter weddings. Made from yards of lace or sheer fabric, the longer veils emanate elegance. Popular for centuries in Spain and Mexico, full-length mantilla veils harmonize perfectly with floor-sweeping dresses.

As vintage fever casts its glow over the nation, brides are incorporating ornate hair combs, jewel-toned earrings, cascading lariat necklaces and layered gold bracelets into their wedding day attire. Classic pearls, sizzling sapphires and dripping emeralds embody this vintage trend. Raid your grandmother's jewelry box to find the perfect heirloom piece for your something borrowed.

Adding gold filigree combs to your hair is one of the easiest ways to incorporate this romantic look into your wedding day. Studded with crystals and rhinestones, these elegant hairclips can be worn with an an graceful up-do or cascading curls and are the perfect solution for securing your veil in place.

You can also create a dramatic brooch bouquet, which is a great alternative for brides who want to avoid carrying flowers, or accent the silk-wrapped stems of your bouquet with a crystal brooch.

Although a red wedding gown is regularly worn throughout Asia and the Middle East, most American brides still shy away from such a bold choice, even during festive winter weddings. You can still embrace the colorful wedding dress trend with a seasonal yet elegant ice blue, shimmery silver or modest blush.

From your bridesmaids dress to your table centerpieces, accent these soft colors with rich earth tones, such as eggplant, olive, emerald and crimson. White on white is also popular this winter season, so choose fabric textures that offer sharp contrasts. Add some magic by dusting your décor with an sparling gold or silver metallic.

If you prefer brilliantly bold shades, take a look at Pantone's 2012 color palette, which includes such confident colors as bright chartreuse, honey gold, tangerine tango and Olympian blue. Emerald green, a perfect color for a winter or spring wedding, shines as Pantone's 2013 Color of the Year.

 Simple one-tier cakes are a huge hit right now. Enliven the design with chevron stripes or a faded ombre pattern, both of which can incorporate your wedding colors. To stick with the romantic vintage theme, opt for paper-thin ruffles with ribbon banding and crystal accent brooches. For a stunning frosting-free wedding cake, have your baker decorate with fresh fruit and flowers.

A cupcake tower, candy buffet or confection bar loaded with fruits, nuts and sugar offers your guests a sweet sweet spin on the wedding treats. Or you can create an eye-catching display that guests will talk about for years by filling martini glasses with desserts and serving with silver spoons.

Winter Wedding Trends for 2013

Ornaments and snowflakes are standard winter wedding themes, but don't feel bound to them. Here, seven fresh ways to plan your winter wedding.

Winter Wedding Bouquets 

Low, lush arrangements made up of elegant white and ivory flowers mixed with pops of color, like bright-red amaryllis, and lots of wintry textured accents, like lamb's ears and thistle, are hugely popular this season.

 

 

Winter Wedding Reception Tables

Gold is big for table design, so this season wedding designers are finding formal wintry ways to deck out the tables in the pretty metal hue, like this table with a gold charger, menu card and flatware.

Winter Wedding Receptions

Floral designers and wedding planners are bringing the outside in when it comes to decorating the reception space.

Think: lots of candles and big branchy arrangements adorned with glowing votives and fresh flowers.

 Winter wedding Food

Consider your holiday food favorites and translate them to your reception.

Try cannoli wrapped in gold paper and served during the cocktail hour, or even warm, fresh-from-the-oven favorites like baked Brie drizzled with compote.

Winter wedding Dresses

Illusion necklines and embellished necklines and skirts (like on this sparkly Reem Acra dress) were all over the bridal fashion runways in October.

Winter is the perfect time to showcase this demure look.

Winter wedding Invitations

Beautiful calligraphy mixed with modern fonts like this one will reign this season. The best part: You can dress it up (with embellished belly bands and laser-cut elements) or down depending on how formal you want to go.

Winter wedding Cakes

Bold and beautiful cake designs are big for winter -- like this red-rose-bedecked white wedding cake. Also big? Flavors and frostings that call on the season, like blackberry buttercream or blood orange filling.

So what trends are you looking forward to using in your wedding this winter?

The Quest for the Dress

If your search for the most spectacular gown is starting to feel like going to the dentist with no pain meds, then take a deep breath. Here are some of the best tips for when to start, whom to bring (hint: maybe not all of your bridesmaids) and how to navigate styles, sales, and fittings.

1. Set a Budget
I know this seems really basic, but shopping without a budget for your gown is like driving a car without a gas gauge. Plan to spend about 10% of your wedding budget on your dress - but consider this a starting point. If your dress is more important to you than the flowers then feel free to adjust your budget.

2. Start Early
Looking for a dress before you are even engaged is a bit much - but start as soon as you have that ring. It can take from 6-12 months from the time you order your dress until you bring it home. Unless you are lucky enough to find the perfect dress all ready for alterations, keep in mind that the designer needs time to make your gown and you should plan on about three dress fittings - roughly one month apart.

3. Do Your Research
Pull pages from magazines, browse the internet, online galleries and Pinterest boards for inspirations. Keep everything together in a folder - pictures, fabric samples, ribbons - all of the things that you love. Most dress shops will not have all of their dresses on display so the more things you can show to help a salesperson pull the designs - the more you are likely to love them.

4. Make Appointments
Once you have an idea of what you want, it is time to set up some appointments. Many salons and boutiques do not work on a walk-in basis so call about two weeks in advance to make an appointment. If you have a particular designer in mind - call around to see who carries that designer or price points.

5. Limit your Entourage
If you watch reality shows then you probably have seen the entire bridal party with the bride when she goes to find 'the dress.' It rarely works out well and there is almost always drama! The best advice is to bring one or two people whose opinion you value the most. If you really want to include your bridal party - then have them come in for your final fitting and do a grand reveal.

6. Primp Beforehand
If you go in to pick out a dress with wet hair and no makeup it is much harder to visualize how you will truly look on your big day. Not to mention that this makes it much harder for the consultant to get an idea of your style. If you already have your heels or a special memento that you are planning to wear then bring it to your appointment - this too will help.

7. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
A simple truth: some dresses look like a paper bag until you actually put it on - and then it looks fabulous! With that in mind, don't turn up your nose until you try something on. The consultant has a good idea of what will look good on you so trust them at least until you see it on. That said, don't let a pushy salesperson or a well-meaning Mom sweet talk you into something you really don't love!

Wedding Gown Shapes Explained

A-Line: The classic 50s cut camouflages hips and balances wide shoulders

Ball Gown: This iconic wedding dress's full skirt helps accentuate the small of your waist

Fit and Flare: Got curves? Showcase them. This gown should fit snugly in the hips and thighs but offer enough room to sit.

Strapless: Sweetheart or straight, this cut flatters all bodies

Halter: Along with one-shoulder silhouettes, this sculpted style is especially beautiful on brides with long torsos

V-neck: Fuller figured? Take the plunge. It draws the eye right to the smallest part of your waist.