New York Fashion Week- Oscar De La Renta

New York Fashion Week is in full swing, and with the Oscars quickly approaching this Sunday, we have our eye on what might hit the red carpet.

With the new Creative Director, Peter Copping for Oscar De La Renta, all eyes were on him as we wondered whether he’d stay true to the legacy of ODLR, if he’d change it completely and birth a brand new ODLR or, if it was a mix of both. The results?

ODLR2Super chic and classic, wearable cocktail garments that any woman would love. But, we wanted to see the showstoppers. The gowns, the red carpet pieces we’d be sure to see at the Oscars.

ODLR4Perfection. Peter, we’ve got to hand it to you— if this is how you continue to reign at ODLR, we’d say you’ve got quite the bright future ahead of you. Oscar would be very, very proud.

 

Jim Verraros for Bridal Expo Chicago Luxury

Spotlight on Bridal Designer Ines Di Santo

Brides, you’re invited to a very special bridal event! Join us on Sun., Feb. 22nd at the Marriott Michigan Ave Chicago as we present an afternoon of all things luxury! We welcome celebrity designer Ines Di Santo as we present her newest couture bridal collection live on the runway! She’s dressed Carrie Underwood, Angela Bassett, Kesha, Serena Williams, Giuliana Rancic and so many more! For your four complimentary tickets, visit: www.BridalExpoTickets.com, and use the promo code, “FB-0127!” But hurry-this offer won’t last long! We can’t wait to celebrate your engagement and help to plan your dream wedding!

From LA to NYC and everywhere in the world, Ines Di Santo gowns capture the imagination of fashionistas everywhere!

From LA to NYC and everywhere in the world, Ines Di Santo gowns capture the imagination of fashionistas everywhere!

Ines Di Santo’s gowns are so beautiful that even celebrities have chosen her designs to wear on their most important day. From the recent nuptials of Jenny McCarthy and Courtney Mazza to Nicole Polizzi (Snooki of Jersey Shore) and Niecy Nash, the stars are clamoring to wear her couture confections.

Courtney Mazza photographed by Kevin Weinstein

Courtney Mazza photographed by Kevin Weinstein.

Our upcoming luxury bridal event on Sunday, February 22nd at the Marriott Michigan Avenue in Chicago will be the perfect place to see Ines and her newest and most glamorous collection to date. We look forward to this event and hope to see you!

True Bridal Luxury at Drury Lane Theatre on September 10th

Save the date and reserve your tickets to this season’s largest luxury show!  It’s all happening on Wednesday evening, September 10th at the historic Drury Lane Theatre in Oak Brook.  The doors to the event will open at 5:45pm for early arrivals and Chicago’s top wedding vendors will be on display and available until 10:00pm.

This is a great opportunity for couples and members of their bridal party to walk through aisles and aisles of incredible displays featuring invitation specialists, catering ideas, wedding cakes, florists, decorators, photographers, honeymoon experts, wedding gowns and everything else any bride or groom would need to plan a wedding of their dreams.  And if you are looking for the perfect gown, you’ll want to take a seat for the couture runway show running from 8:00pm until 9:00pm. We’ll open our show with a spotlight on gowns by Victor Harper Couture.  (To reserve tickets, order at www.BridalExpoChicago.com/Tickets )

8-17-14 aWith more than 60 exhibitors, you and your entire bridal party will discover new resources, find creative ideas to express your individuality and be able to talk one-on-one with exhibitors and experts. It’s a one-stop shop filled with amazing experts!  (Above; runway photos by Just Love Me {Photography + Design} and the gorgeous exhibitor shots are by Angela Swan Artist and Vito and Julia Photography.)

8-17-14 bIn this series of images from previous luxury bridal shows held at The Drury Lane Theatre and produced by our company, you can see previous displays by Taylor & Company- a table setting and chuppah by Taylor & Company, invitations by Greenstar Paperie, cupcake samples by Oak Mill Bakery, a place card floral display by Lavish Weddings, a giant 6-tier wedding cake by Delicity Cakes, bridal gowns by Fiancee Couture and rehearsal dinner options by Seasons 52 restaurant in Oak Brook. This is just a small sampling of what you’ll find at our September 10, 2014 event.

8-17-14 cOur fashion show presentation will run from 8:00pm until 9:00pm and include gowns priced for every gown budget: from under $1,000 to more than $10,000.  Set to music and an incredible sound and lighting experience, your journey into the world of fashion will be fun and exciting.  We’ll present bridal gowns by Lazaro, Tara Keely, Hayley Paige, Matthew Christopher, Rosa Clara, Luna Novias, Rivini by Rita Vinieris, Justin Alexander, David Tutera for Mon Cheri, Sophia Tolli, James Clifford, Cristiano Lucci, Liancarlo and Victor Harper Couture.

We’ll also show you the latest attendant gowns by Alvina Valenta, Jim Hjelm Occasions, and Noir by Lazaro. Each model is accessorized with the latest creations by Maria Elena Headpieces and all veils are provided by Nilah and Co.

Bridal Expo Chicago is simply the best show in the Windy City.  Wedding show tickets can be reserved at www.BridalExpoChicago.com/Tickets for just $10 in advance or $15 at the door.  If you have a promo code from our Facebook Page, you may qualify for 4 complimentary tickets only while supplies last.  Above runway photos are by Just Love Me {Photography + Design}.

To see and watch a video from one of our past events at Drury Lane Theatre, click below:

https://www.bridalshowexpo.com/fos_video_bride.html

 

 

 

 

 

The Oscars 2014: Fashion Hits, Misses and What They SHOULD Have Worn

I don’t think there was a person more excited then myself to watch the Academy Awards last night. I paced for hours around my house, dreaming of couture and what the stars would wear on the red carpet. By the end, though, I was left unfulfilled, disappointed and quite frankly underwhelmed in general.

Let’s start with my picks for Best Dressed:

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Charlize Theron in Dior

Kate Hudson in Versace

Cate Blanchette in Armani

Camila Alves in Gabriella Cadena

Maria Menounos in Johanna Johnson

Fashion Misses: Lupita Nyong’o, Jennifer Lawrence, Amy Adams, Penelope Cruz, Julia Roberts.

Now, I love me some Lupita Nyong’o and she has been nothing short of perfection… until last night. The dress was a bore, the headband ridiculous and overall, the look ill-fitting.

What she wore: Prada.

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What Lupita SHOULD’VE worn:

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Elie Saab, Haute Couture, Spring 2014.

Yes, she’s worn red before, but if she really wanted that “princess” moment on the red carpet, this would’ve done it. She was nominated, she already had huge buzz around her for her immaculate portrayal in “12 Years A Slave,” and this gown would’ve been much more flattering on her, particularly in the bust area. People are going to put Lupita on their best dressed list simply because she’s a beautiful woman and incredible actress, but let’s face it: the gown was NOT spectacular.

Jennifer Lawrence. America’s Sweetheart wore, of course, Dior. This was predictable as she’s a spokesperson for the design house, but…of ALL the Dior Couture gowns they could’ve gone vintage, they could’ve MADE her something spectacular…but, no. She wore a red dress that gave me narcolepsy.

What she wore: Dior.

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What Jennifer SHOULD’VE worn:

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Christian Dior, Spring 2012 Couture.

Jennifer is 23 years old, gorgeous and has had her fair share of fashion hits and misses. Most of her choices have been beautiful but last night’s choice was just underwhelming. It was safe and not fashion forward in the least. This gown would’ve given her that opportunity to shine on the red carpet and would have given us FASHION. Excitement.

Amy Adams. Such an incredible talent and usually more of a risk-taker when it comes to red carpet looks. Her caped Valentino at this year’s Golden Globes, her Oscar de la Renta ball gown at last year’s Oscars…I could go on. Last night?

What she wore: Gucci.

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It isn’t that it’s horrible or that it’s ill-fitting, it’s just that when you are AT THE OSCARS, as a Nominee for BEST ACTRESS, you choose something that speaks that. No? Am I wrong? Am I REACHING for the stars, here?

Okay, then. This wasn’t appropriate for last night, period and I don’t care that she “dressed for herself and not for anyone else.” It was TOO understated and she can do understated any other day of the year. It’s the OSCARS. GIVE. ME. SOME. FASHION.

What Amy SHOULD’VE worn:

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Elie Saab, Haute Couture, Spring 2014.

You’re probably thinking I’m biased or that Elie Saab’s people are paying me to say kind things about their recent collection. I WISH. No, the collection is JUST THAT SPECTACULAR. This would’ve been so stunning on Amy that I would’ve literally jumped out of my seat, picked up my television and kissed it. But, no…she picked boring, un-inspiring and lackluster.

Perhaps one of the most stunning women in Hollywood, Penelope Cruz was another fashion MISS last night. Sure, she wasn’t nominated for anything, but she could’ve put some effort on her gown choice. Instead, she chose a pink bridesmaid dress. Don’t believe me?

What She Wore: Giambattista Valli Haute Couture (must’ve been an imposter version).

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Yup. She chose THAT thing. It’s wrong. ALL wrong. Completely unflattering on her. Out of all the couture gowns in the world you could wear, this is your “go-to” dress for the Academy Awards? Ugh.

 

What Penelope SHOULD’VE worn:

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Oscar De La Renta, Fall 2014 RTW.

Why? With her dark hair, these colors would’ve complimented her beautifully. The lace sheer panels in front and cascading layers in the back give it such a couture look. And- it’s Oscar. Enough said.

Oh, Julia Roberts. I love you. Always have, always will. But last night…your black lace gown I did NOT.

What She Wore: Givenchy.

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Again, similar to Amy Adams, it isn’t that it’s completely disgusting…it’s just fine. She looks happy and the cut is flattering. It’s just not WOW. With Julia Roberts, I want her to BOWL. ME. OVER.

What Julia SHOULD’VE worn:

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Jenny Packham, Fall 2014 Ready To Wear.

The slit in front is just enough and the details on the shoulders give it a couture feel that would’ve given her a bit more of a youthful feel. This would’ve glided down the red carpet and people would’ve been so taken with her in this gown.

Although these four weren’t spectacular, they were pretty. Therefore, I will say these are my “Honorable Mentions.”

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Jenna Dewan-Tatum in Reem Acra

Sandra Bullock in Alexander McQueen

Bette Midler in Reem Acra

Angelina Jolie in Elie Saab

 

Jim Verraros for Bridal Expo Chicago Luxury

Red Carpet Predictions for The Oscars 2014

It’s the day before the Oscars, and if you know me, you know that I’ll feverishly be on all of my social media outlets searching for photos to post on my Facebook page of every red carpet worthy look.

Short and sweet, here are my predictions, or rather, wishes to see on the red carpet for tomorrow’s Academy Awards.

Sandra Bullock, nominated for “Gravity,” in the Best Actress category has always had minimal hair and makeup and gowns that have been hits and some that have been misses. In the past, she’s worn Elie Saab, J. Mendel and Prabal Gurung but here’s what I’d like to see her in:

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Armani Privé, Spring 2014 Couture.

Why? It’s dynamic. Glamorous. The detail is out-of-this-world gorgeous and truly exudes “Hollywood Royalty.” There’s a hint of romance and edginess which with a body like Sandra has, can knock this out of the park.

Cate Blanchette, nominated for “Blue Jasmine,” in the Best Actress category has also had her fair share of hits and misses (the bib dress from Givenchy, anyone?), however, she’s also had some massive hits like the stunning black lace Armani Privé gown she recently wore. What I’d love to see her in?

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Valentino, Spring 2014 Couture. Why? Cate’s always been known to take fashion risks on the red carpet but also carries herself in a way most haven’t figured out how to do. Cate Blanchette is Hollywood Royalty, and this Valentino gown speaks just that.

Amy Adams, nominated for “American Hustle,” also in the Best Actress category has worn gowns from Antonio Berardi, Oscar de la Renta and Valentino. Never staying true to one particular style or silhouette, you’re always kept guessing as to what she’ll do. YVL_5090.450x675

Elie Saab, Spring 2014. This gown has EVERYTHING and when you’re a “Best Actress” Nominee, you need to look like one. One of my favorite prior looks was the gray Oscar De La Renta ball gown she wore in 2013 and looked like a dream in it. This Elie Saab gown has a bit more structure but also has a softness to it she carries so well.

 

Jennifer Lawrence, brand ambassador for Christian Dior, is nominated for Best Supporting Actress, in “American Hustle.” She’s always worn Dior on the red carpet, so I doubt she’ll stray from the design house; but will it be hot off the runway or vintage?

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For Jennifer, I went back through the Dior archives to Spring 2012 Couture. It’s big, it’s over-the-top and it SCREAMS Oscars. Still youthful because Jennifer is only 23 years old, but ultra-glamorous. This is the ONE NIGHT all year long you can go all out.

And last but definitely not least and everyone’s favorite “Red Carpet Darling,” Lupita Nyong’o, nominated for Best Supporting Actress in “12 Years A Slave,” has been nothing short of flawless on the red carpet. Donning designers from Dior, Gucci and Ralph Lauren, all eyes are on this gorgeous woman right now. The question remains, who will she wear for tomorrow’s Oscars?

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Johanna Johnson, Spring/Summer 2012-2013. I envisioned Lupita in something decadent, regal and more fitted to her body since it’s next to flawless. I can imagine her walking down the red carpet and sparkling like the star she’s shown everybody she is.

 

Tomorrow will be full of surprises and I for one, can’t wait.

 

Jim Verraros for Bridal Expo Chicago Luxury

Elie Saab Couture Spring 2014 Review

I have been a huge fan of Elie Saab for quite some time and first saw a gown from his collection on the Red Carpet about 5 years ago. Every season seems better than the last. The decadent, rich beading and embroideries always have me thinking “royalty.” His newest collection ranged from beaded lace sheaths to full skirted ombre ball gowns, and once again, Elie Saab left us breathless as models walked down the runway.

Elie1The show opened with gowns in a soft blush color, all intricately detailed with pearls, lace and crystal which gave you a taste of the theme behind the entire show and what might come next.

Elie2Then, Elie transitioned us into a white evening collection; any of which could have easily been slightly tweaked into a modern and spectacular bridal gown. Sleeves, one-shouldered gowns, peplums and his signature skinny belts brought definition and life to each piece.

Elie3Next, gowns in a magnificent and vivid shade of red waltzed down the runway, exuding a kind of sophistication and polish Elie’s always been well known for.  Many of the pieces had a two-toned effect with the use of red crystals and embellishments which harnessed the light in a most lovely way.

Elie4Transitioning from red to a citrine, these silhouettes were given the signature Elie treatment of embroidery, beading and floral details that were unexpected and playful.

Elie5The next color story was told in Hydrangea Blue and Lilac, this time using soft tulle and multiple layers of beading and hand-cut floral details in each gown that took us into a soft and dreamy state of evening looks. Then…

Elie6…I went into anaphylactic shock. Taking a departure from his still gorgeous monochromatic looks, we saw colors starting with black fading into an ombré pattern of blush, violet, lilac, blue and white. These gowns were utter perfection, and when the Oscars are presented this March, I fully expect SOMEONE (Sandra Bullock, are you listening?) to don one of these superbly craft gowns on the red carpet.

Elie7Continuing with his ombre´ scheme, we were given black fading into grey and then white. Any of these magnificent creations would make for a stellar awards show gown.

Elie8These ombre´ chiffon gowns literally floated down the runway. The photos truly don’t do these gowns the justice they deserve. (another anaphylactic shock moment for me)

Elie9Staying true to an Elie Saab tradition, he ended the runway show with a spectacular veiled bridal ball gown and was the perfect finish to an overall breathtaking collection. By far, Elie delivered one of his most sensational collections.  It was perhaps, also one of his most “out-of-the-box,” presentations.  In essence, this collection was one I was truly most looking forward to seeing and I was left unconscious by the end of it.

{All runway photos courtesy Yannnis Vlamos/Indigitalimages.com for Style.com}

If you’re dying to see these gowns in actual movement, I urge you to stop whatever it is you’re doing, lock yourself in a room and click here:

 

Jim Verraros for Bridal Expo Chicago Luxury

Fashion at The 2014 Grammy Awards

Although the Grammys are best known for Music’s A-Listers taking huge fashion risks on the red carpet, this year, the fashion seemed streamlined, calculated and polished.

Taylor Swift always knocks it out of the park on the red carpet as she looked statuesque wearing a stunning chain link Gucci gown paired with Jimmy Choo shoes. Her stylist, Joseph Cassell has been flawless with carefully selecting statement pieces for Taylor, from designers like Carolina Herrera, Elie Saab and Donna Karan Atelier.

TaylorSwiftxAnother fashion high note was John Legend’s wife, Chrissy Teigen in a gold hand beaded Johanna Johnson couture gown. Fit to perfection, this look on Chrissy was breathtaking. Designer Johanna Johnson, best known for dressing stars like Minnie Driver, Julie Bowen and Christina Hendricks also dressed one of music’s elite, P!nk in a gorgeous red charmeuse paneled gown.

JohannaJohnsonxR&B Superstar Ciara went through multiple fittings in Milan and Los Angeles to get her long sleeved beaded Emilio Pucci just right; and it paid off. The newly pregnant star looked gorgeous with her soft up-do pulled back and minimal makeup.

CiaraxBeyonce Knowles was a knockout in her Michael Costello Couture gown. Some compared this look to Jennifer Lopez wearing Zuhair Murad at a prior red carpet event, but we think Beyonce looked incredible with this white lace and nude patterned ensemble.

BeyoncexWe rarely see Madonna on the red carpet and always have high hopes for her,  but this was a fashion miss with this Ralph Lauren suit.  It came off costumey and the cane didn’t help her major fashion faux-pas.

Madonnax We’ll be curious to know what the Giuliana Rancic, Joan Rivers, Kelly Osbourne and George Kotsiopoulos on E!’s Fashion Police say tonight, and if they agree with us on our pics for Best Dressed at The Grammys!  At Bridal Expo Chicago Luxury, we’re always inspired by fashion as trends always have influence in the world of bridal.     -Jim Verraros for Bridal Expo Chicago Luxury Shows

{Photos courtesy Huffington Post}

Drury Lane Theatre, Oak Brook – February 19, 2014

Join us for an unforgettable evening of true wedding luxury!  It all begins at 5:30pm when the doors open to Chicago brides and grooms-to-be along with their bridal parties on Wednesday evening, February 19th at The Drury Lane Theatre in Oak Brook. You'll See Lovely Displays Attendees will have the chance to see well over 60 exhibitors ranging from florists, to photographers, bakeries, travel agents, table top decorators, bridal salons, formalwear and so much more.

The evening will also feature our couture runway show with a special spotlight on Matthew Christopher Couture Wedding Gowns.  Matthew will join our Fashion Director, Carol Tardi on the runway and present his latest collections for 2014.  The show continues with another 60 gowns elegantly presented in easy to follow scenes.  Each attendee will receive a beautiful four color fashion show program which will list each designer, style number and price guide.

2014 Gowns by Matthew ChristopherTo get tickets, use the promo code found on our Facebook page and for a limited time, receive 4 complimentary tickets.  But hurry, offer may expire without notice.  Then ticket price reverts to the regular price of $10 in advance or $15 at the door.

Visit: www.BridalExpoChicago.com/Tickets for show details and to place your order

Chicago Marriott O’Hare, Sunday, January 19, 2014

All of us at Bridal Expo Chicago Luxury Events are very excited about our upcoming show coming to the Chicago Marriott O’Hare on Sunday, January 19th from 11:30am until 4:00pm.  We’ll be featuring more than 60 of Chicago’s best wedding purveyors ranging from bridal boutiques to invitation specialists, wedding cakes, formalwear, florists and just about everything you’ll need to plan the perfect wedding.

Rosa Clará

Rosa Clará
See the very latest couture gowns on the runway.

In addition, we will feature a fabulous couture runway show in the Grand Ballroom with a special spotlight on designer Rosa Clara and her latest 2014 collection.  This is a rare opportunity to see these gowns as most local retailers have not received their samples for their stores and the general public.  After the 10 piece collection, the show will continue with 60 additional gowns by world famous designers ranging from $900 all the way up to $10,000.  You’ll also see some of the latest attendant gowns in colors that you’ll love in many different silhouettes.

Rosa Clará

Rosa Clará

Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door, but for a limited time and while supplies last, you can use a promo code found on our Facebook page for 4 complimentary tickets!  But hurry, the offer will end soon and without notice.   www.BridalExpoChicago.com/Tickets

 

 

 

Wedding Planning Made Easy

I am sure you’ve 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 Chicago/Milwaukee 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

 

Cover Photo

Photo: Here is a photo taken during the finale of one of our recent luxury bridal shows.  Special thanks to Just Love Me { Photography + Design } and Tamara Makeup + Hair Artistry.  To see more from our runway, click here: https://www.bridalshowexpo.com/video_gallery.html