Monthly Archives: March 2012

Tips For Timelessly Tailored Suits

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On my long list of pet peeves in life are men’s suits and how they are improperly tailored. This happens more often than you think and for me, one small detail can really throw off the whole look. Did you ever see a really handsome man wearing a suit and it looks either sloppy or (worse) like he raided Pee Wee Herman’s closet? Disappointing, to say the least. For example, the suit on the the left is obviously too big but has been altered to the point where in  the picture on the right, it appears to be about a half size too small.

 

I understand this is the trend right now; tight fitting pant legs and tight fitting jackets. But think about what 5 years and 5 lbs is going to do to the look of the suit. When buying  a suit or tuxedo for your wedding, going for a classic look will NEVER be a bad fashion choice. In addition, if you study the picture closely you will see diagonal lines in the jacket from the armhole to the button. A well fitted suit will not have those diagonal lines when the jacket is buttoned, it will fit smooth and hang straight down from the point of the button.

Having a touch of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, I consulted a top notch tailor to discuss the proper fit of a man’s suit.  Here are the tips and hints I have put together for you when having your wedding suit or tuxedo tailored:

PANTS – The back of the pant leg should rest at the top of the sole of the shoe. The point where the sole meets the shoe is where the back  pant hem should be.

The front of the pant should taper up and have a 1/2″ break (pleat) in the front so it rests gently on the top of the shoe in front.

Never trust anyone who advises you to wear a belt and suspenders at the same time. Choose one or the other.

SLEEVES- Make a fist. If the cuff falls at the tip of your fingers it is the right length.

SHIRT – No matter what style of shirt or jacket, the shirt sleeves should be 1/2 ” longer than the jacket sleeve, always.

 

Two button suits are timeless. If you choose one, three or more buttons, you risk having your suit fall into a category of  “Last Year’s trend”.  The top button should be at the bottom of the  rib cage and the bottom button should be at the waistband of your pants.

Double Breasted suits look best on men with a slim physique, not too broad in the shoulders.

There should always be a pleat in the back of the suit to allow for movement. The pleat should not fall open at any time while you are wearing it unless you are seated, while you are seated the jacket should be unbuttoned.

Although the selection of the suit is all based on personal preferences, taste and style, the fit should be impeccable. If you are at a loss or can’t remember every detail of this blog, try to remember this: What Would James Bond Wear?

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

What Is Your Aisle Style?

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The music begins, the bride enters the venue, everyone rises as she begins the trip down the aisle. Everyone turns to face the back of the venue, and all simultaneously turn as she passes their seating area. All eyes follow her as she makes the trip down the aisle to until she reaches the point where she will meet her future husband to recite their vows.   Not much has changed for the journey down the aisle in hundreds of years. That is all about to change.  You’re asking, “So, what’a new in wedding aisles?”. Everything. As weding become less about what s expected and more about what best expresses each couple, someone very clever came up with some innovative and groundbreaking aisle ideas.

Spiral Seating – Best for (but, not limited to) outdoor venues.Arranging th seating in a spiral fashion allows more movement throughout the crowd so everyone can get a close-up look ot the bride. It is a more informal, casual approach and definitely one that will hold your guests attention. Not to mention, everyone gets a front row seat!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Center Stage – Arranging the chairs in a thater-in-the-round fashion will give everyone the same exact vantage point. This is also best for outdoor venues and can seat dozens of people in a manner where there is no overcrowding and no one has to overextend their neck too far to see what is going on. Topped off with a canopy in the center, this is  fantastic opportunity to show off your lavish or simple decorating touches.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Standard– Of course the classics never die! You can’t go wrong with the traditional aisle where seats are neatly arranged in rows, this will undoubtedly never go out of fashion.  When choosing pew or chair decor, remember that people will need to be able to enter the rows easily. Candles may seem like a good idea but, only if they are inside of  lanterns or some other protective covering. Consider artificial candles that silmulate the real thing to perfection, compete with flickering light. The worst thing would be to have exposed flame in a confined area with yards of silk and tulle.

Couples today are using every avenue available to them to express their individuality and to figure out the best way to make their wedding suit ther persnalities. Sometimes changeing things this ingrained in history and tradition causes arguments and criticism among concerned family members. This is code for some people (parents) don’t like change. If you are one of the pioneers of a Spiral Aisle then, be prepared for some heated discussion and/or criticism. Remind them gently that this is your choice and “Change is good.”

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

Out of Bridal Shower Ideas? How About Henna?

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Not just for Indian women, Henna tattoos are fast becoming one of the hottest fashion statements and forms of personal expression. If you don’t already know; Henna hand, foot and body tattoos have been around for centuries. Now, the people of India and that region of the world have brought their unique Henna tattoo art into the 21st century by combining it with mani/pedi spa parties for brides-to-be to create one of the most innovative ideas for a bridal shower!

Before you ask, it is not of any religious significance whatsoever, it is a cultural practice. There’s nothing strictly sacred or spiritual about it, but the Henna tattoos are considered beneficial and lucky, and always regarded as beautiful and blessed. The Henna tattoos are widely regarded as the most auspicious ornamentation a woman can wear.

 Today as an alternative to permanent tattoos, Henna tattoos are as hot as many of the celebrities seen sporting this painless art of body painting. Actress Demi Moore, and ‘No Doubt’ crooner Gwen Stefani were among the first to sport this look.

Conside these tips:

If you are going to have  Henna Party – book it far enough in advance that the tattoos will fade before your wedding day (if you don’t want them visible on your wedding day).

If you do want them to be visible, less than one week before your wedding is advised. 

They can be as little or as much as you like.

Try to avoid the black henna – according to research  it can be toxic and cause skin problems.

The best colors are the deep rich RED hues.

If you have  very dark skin, henna tattoos are going to be barely visible.

Henna Parties are popping up all over, especially during the summer months when your feet and ankles are visible in sandals. They are painless, harmless, one step up from a mani/pedi and the perfect time to have some good luck bestowed upon you and the members of your wedding party.

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

Daylight Savings Time and Your Wedding

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Last night nearly everyone in the United States set their clocks forward one hour in observance of Daylight Savings Time, with the exception of Arizona, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Daylight Savings Time was first introduced to reduce the amount of artificial lighting used  and to allow human beings internal clocks to adjust to the solar calendar. Research shows, without fail, that the practice of  ‘springing forward’ or ‘falling back’ has little or no affect on productivity or sleep patterns.  The reality is in modern times our schedule is our schedule, we work from 9 am to 5 pm ( fro example) no matter the season.

Seeing as how this is a blog about weddings and wedding planning you are probably asking yourself,  “What gives with the Dalight Savings Time lecture and who cares?” The reality is that if you plan your wedding on the weekend of either the Spring or Fall time change, it will have an affect on you and your guests.

Fact: Clocks are set forward the second Sunday in March, and backward on the first Sunday in November.

Tip: It is perfectly acceptable to remind your guests either on the invitation somewhere or on your website that this is the weekend of a time change, especially if your wedding is on that Sunday! You don’t want people showing up an hour late.

Fact: Most cell phones automatically change the time for you.

Tip: It is a good idea to set reminders on your phone or other device to alert you the day or week before the time change so you can get used to the change.

Fact:  Losing an hour of sleep in the Spring is awful.

Tip: Starting the Monday before the scheduled time change, set your alarm clock ten minutes early. By Saturday you will be waking up 50 minutes earlier than usual, on Sunday you will wake up feeling refreshed and never know you missed an hour of sleep.

There always has an always will will be controversy over whether or not the semi-annual time changes are necessary, there are websites, petitions and legislation trying to abolish Daylight Savings Time. For modern brides and grooms there is very little to worry about and if handled properly, it shouldn’t present any problems at all.

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

 

Your Mother’s Gown – A Delicate Matter

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You have seen your parent’s wedding portrait hanging in the house for years. As a little girl, you probably thought your mother’s gown was the most beautiful thing you had ever seen. As a teenage girl, you probably thought it was dated or possible hideous. As a newly engaged woman, the idea of wearing your mother’s gown has probably entered into conversation at least once. She ‘saved’ it, had it heirloomed or preserved in acid-free tissue so that you would one day be able to walk down the aisle in the gown she chose so many years ago.

Just a few problems with this scenario: 1) She chose it for herself, not a child that had yet to be born. 2) It probably is dated. 3) You are more than likely not the same size. 4) What if you have sisters? Are you all supposed to wear her gown… all of you wearing exact same gown?

Let’s face it – you probably don’t want to wear it. You probably have an idea of  how you want to look on your wedding day and it doesn’t involve anything from your mother’s closet. It’s not vintage enough, it’s not retro enough, its just not enough!

So what do you do when she brings out the giant heirloom box and starts to talk about how beautiful you are going to look? Be gentle, be kind but, be honest.  tell her your exact feelings as nicely as possible. You should definitely try it on, tell stories and laugh! When the time comes, just  tell her that you want a different style or color or whatever the case may be.  you may be shocked at how easily she takes the news. You see, as a mom, I can tell you that when you save these things for your children you are really saving them for yourself.  
A compromise may be to use parts of the gown for something on your wedding day ensemble. Adding some of her lace to your gown is a beautiful sentiment and it leaves other elements for siblings to use as well.  Putting the edge on a handkerchief or using some of the fabric for a purse or to decorate a card box is equally nice.

Your wedding gown is probably the single costliest clothing item you will ever own, you will be photographed more wearing this gown than anything else you ever wear, you will hang your wedding portrait in your house and probably keep it in the same spot forever.

Whatever gown you choose, make sure to include your mother in the process ( and not just her wallet) so that she feels as special on your day as she did on hers so many years ago.

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

The Name Game: Addressing Your In-Laws

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This dilemma is as old as relationships; how do you address your in-laws? This is a delicate maneuver where there is no clear right or wrong. The only thing right or wrong is how you handle it.

First and foremost, the entire situation needs to be handled both directly and quickly. As a newcomer, your first task is to ask them how they would prefer to be addressed. Just as it was odd, at first, to refer to yourself ‘engaged’ or ‘married’  it became the norm and you got used to it. Beware: once you begin calling your partner’s parents “Mom & Dad” you may find yourself becoming closer to them emotionally and treating them just like (dare I say) family.

Second there is your comfort level. This will be based on several things including your relationship with your own family and the relationship you have with your partner’s parents. If you are not very close to your in-laws, calling them “Mom and Dad” may feel like you are trying too hard. Don’t force it if you don’t feel it. Let’s face it – some parents are more nurturing than others.

There is also respect involved. To be respectful you should always address them as “Mr. & Mrs.” until after the wedding unless they have requested otherwise. It may make them very resentful if you call them by their first name without any prior conversation. This is especially true with mothers, you know how we are.

Parents who don’t want to age are big problem, too. They still live in their glory days, dress too young, whatever. The problem is that they don’t think they are old enough to be the parent of an adult and really think other people feel the same. Most of the time they are wrong but, fighting this battle is not worth the time. Call them by their first name or whatever they ask you to… it’s much easier.

No take-backs. If you begin calling your in-laws “Mom & Dad” early on and then have spat and casually refer to one of them by their first name this could drive a wedge between you. It will break a bond that may take years to repair. They are family – argue as much as you like but, keep it respectful.

The first time I ever met my father-in-law he asked to me to call him “Daddy”. Okay. Except I was 38, already married and 4 months pregnant with his first grandchild. I guess I was reticent because he was not a big part of my husband’s life at that point in time. My mother-in-law was as close in age to me in one direction as my husband was in the other so calling her ‘Mom’ seemed insulting. She was 9 years older than me, my husband is 9 years younger….. awkward.

In modern times there are more situations like mine, where blended or divorced families have close, semi-close or distant relationships. Odd age differences, step-parents, etc.  What matters is that you both agree on how you address the issue. As a couple, you have to stand together and remember the only rule is that there are are no rules. Of course once children are involved everything changes.

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

 

Wedding Planning 101 – Attending Bridal Expo

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I am sure you’ve often heard that sometimes the truth hurts. The fact is – sometimes it doesn’t hurt at all. Sometimes the truth is easy and painless. I can give you one perfect example: The BEST first step you can take to planning your wedding is to make plans to attend a Bridal Expo Luxury Event. That’s the truth.

However, there are some ways to make it easier and even more painless than you could imagine. I am thrilled to pass along these tips to you so you can save time and money and have a great time.

1) Make a day of it! Don’t plan to come to a show when you are in a hurry. Make this one day very special, plan a fantastic breakfast or brunch beforehand and stay for the entire show. You will not be sorry. You will save more time visiting our vendors in that one day than driving to and from every single vendor we have at our shows. How much time and money would you like to save?

2) Plan ahead. Before attending, bring a checklist of what services you need.  This will avoid confusion and save time. You won’t need to spend time shopping for vendors that you have already booked.

3) Bring your support team. Only bring those who offers you the best advice and gives you the most support.  Bring those people with you to keep you on task and focused on your needs.  You don’t want to bring ‘Debbie Downer’ with you and ruin an otherwise awesome event.

4) Bring contact labels. At each of our shows, you will have the eopportunity to sign up for amazing prizes and special deals from Bridal Expo and each of  our vendors. It saves so much time (not to mention writer’s cramp) if you have address labesl pre-printed with your contact information. Dont forget your email address! Make sure all the information is current.

5) Bring a digital camera. Yes, we not only allow but, encourage our brides to take pictures. A picture is worth a thousand words. There will be flowers, cakes, gowns,  and all kinds of other things that you will want to remember. This is the best way to document your preferences. Later you can print those pictures and place them in your wedding planner for quick referencing.

6) Leave the kids at home. If you have small children, this is the best time to cash in a favor from a good friend and ask them to watch the kids for the day. Small children will be overwhelmed by the crowds and you will want to be able to stay focused. Plus, there are no strollers allowed in the vendor area. The kids will thank you!

7) Arrive Early. This will give you time to register, and after you have visited every vendor you will be able to find a great seat for the Couture Runway Fashion show. No where else can you see this many luxurious designer  bridal fashions on one stage.

8) Come for the show, stay for the prizes.  At each and every Bridal Expo there are fabulous prizes given away on stage before, during and after our luxurious runway fashion show. Large prizes (fabulous getaways, diamond earrings, photogrpahy packages) and smaller prizes (countertop appliances and gift certificates). Either way, you will not win the prizes if you are not there to claim them. If the bride is not present when called, our Fashion Director and show commentator, Carol Tardi, will call another name. Don’t be the one that got away!

9) Be ready to save money. Many of our vendors  offer booking specials. Dont be afraid to save money. If you are not ready to make a decision,  ask for their information so you can contact them later. They will be happy to oblige. 

10) Relax. The wedding planning process should be fun and Bridal Expo will help make it easier.  Organization is the key to staying stress-free and focused.

 

-Penny Frulla For Bridal Expo Chicago

 

The Trouble With Tweens – Dressing For A Wedding

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Whether they are attendants or guests, the consensus is the same: it is nearly impossible to find an age appropriate dress for a young lady between the ages of 10-12. No longer a little girl and not yet a teenager, they ( and their parents) are faced with the dilemma of finding something that is attractive, flattering and comfortable that is also stylish. The biggest problem is that most dress manufacturers almost completely ignore the complications associated with this particular demographic and continue to offer designs for little girls and teenagers only.

Consider these tips when shopping for a dress that your tweenager:

Nothing strapless. Most  little girls don’t have the necessary equipment to hold a strapless garment in place. If they do have the ‘right stuff’, they will look too grown up in the dress and (whats the word)…. sleazy. Instead, consider something with a spaghetti strap and a bodice that fits loosely enough to be able to move but tight enough that you don’t see through the sides.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Length is a factor. The best length for a young girl is directly at the knee. Lower if you wish, floor length if you want but, never any shorter than the knee. It is too much responsibility for an untrained young lady to constantly have to check to make sure she has her knees closed, is bending from the knee, isn’t squatting to pick up something. A lot of responsibility goes with super short skirts and girls this young are just not mature enough to understand the ramifications of their actions. 

 

 

 

Neckline. Plunging necklines are not comfortable for young women who have just begun wearing a bra. In addition, they will not be comfortable having to worry about becoming a victim of a wardrobe malfunction. Consider a modest ‘V’  or scoop neckline. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Details. The most important thing is to find some details that make the dress fun, flirty and fashionable. Dresses with a bubble hem, a gorgeous ribbon sash, a sparkly brooch at the waist or even a decorative silk flower can turn a simple dress into a stunner and make your not-ready-for-dating daughter look and feel like a prime-time princess (suitable for all audiences).

 

 

 

 

– Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago