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Kids and Weddings – Yes or No?

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The best part about your wedding is having everyone you love in one place at one time. Aunts, uncles, cousins, best friends and (may times) their significant others. People with whom you have shared experiences, and looking forward to adding this to your list of fond memories. Then, the subject of kids comes up. The subject of children at weddings is a buzzkill for almost everyone …with or without children.

People with children don’t understand why you don’t want their little darlings around, why they have to exclude their children (part of the family) from a family gathering. They do not always want to leave their children out of the celebration and if there is travel involved, how long do they have to make arrangements for their children’s well-being? They consider it a huge inconvenience and some parents will be resentful.

But, some people with children don’t always want to travel with them or take them to a fancy event. They would like to have a night out without worrying about who ate their vegetables and making sure someone uses the right spoon. No highchairs, no temper tantrums, no whining…just a night out with your spouse and a glass (or two) of chardonnay.

People without children would often prefer you leave them at home, find a sitter and be done with it. They haven’t bonded with children, they don’t need or want the worry of children ruining their event with bad behavior,  out of control, touching things that don’t need to be touched. They are not as enamored with your children as you are.

Buzzkill.

Points to consider:

Kids are fun. they dance and laugh and eat cake. They will be all dressed up and probably not eat too much, anyway.

If you are paying $100 per person for dinner, how can you justify spending this much one someone who would probably rather eat McNuggets?

Kids are noisy – what if they can’t keep quiet during the ceremony?

Kids are messy. They will probably have filthy hands and want to touch the wedding gown or other things that don’t need to  be touched.

There is also the age thing: What is the cut off? There is a big difference between a 17 yr old and a 4 yr old.

The simple fact is that if you don’t want children at your wedding, state it on the invitation and make sure you are prepared for the fallout. If you are allowing children at your wedding, state it on the invitation and be prepared for the fallout. Either way you are not going to make everyone happy.

Make your decision (as a couple) and move on, you have nothing to explain and no explaining will make a difference, anway. It is your wedding.

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

 

2012 Emmy Awards – Red Carpet Fashion!

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The award ceremony is over, the gowns and tuxedos either sent off to the cleaners, returned to the designers or draped over the back of a chair. But, the fun has just begun, because the “What were they thinking?” portion of the program has taken over and it’s time for us to take a peek at the hits and misses at last night’s Emmy Awards.

I have broken it down into three categories; Belts, Boobs and Breathtaking

BELTS :

Julia Loius Dreyfus in Vera Wang; ditch the belt and you have a winner. Love the neckline.

64th Primetime Emmy Awards - Arrivals

Jessica Pare nailed it with this Grecian inspired gown by Jason Wu featuring a tiny black belt.

64th Primetime Emmy Awards - Arrivals

 

Michelle Dockery looks as if she suffered a dramatic weight loss since her last fitting. The belt does nothing for this Loius Vuitton gown and the gown does nothing for her.

64th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards - Arrivals

Sarah Paulsen’s Reem Acra gown was jaw-dropping on her. The belt broke up some of the details in the shimmering lace appliques and made the dress more interesting.

Sarah Paulson

Boobs:

Actually Christina Hendricks falls into the Boobs and Belts categories. Can you guess why? The belt is too big and her bust is too enormous for this not-so-flattering Christian Siriano gown. When she said it was “Old Hollywood” I am assuming she meant Mae West.

64th Primetime Emmy Awards - Arrivals

Morena Baccarin need some more tape to keep things in check. In reality this gown would look best on someone who has a nearly flat chest, otherwise you appear to have “pancake boob”.

64th Primetime Emmy Awards - Arrivals

Kat Dennings posture was the most important accessory she wore last night. One false move and either one of ( or both) of her knockers would have come flying out. Not the right dress or maybe just a bad fit?

64th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards - Arrivals

Sofia Vergara was positively shimmery in her gown by Zuhair Murad. The problem? Aside from the fact that she looked like a Miss Universe contestant, there was too much side-boob. Plus, did she just jump out of the shower and throw on a beaded gown? Spend some time on your hair! You are gorgeous and you can wear anything but, you have been around long enough to know that you need to step it up. Next year- we all expect you to  bring it!

Sofia Vergara

Breathtaking:

Jane Fallon,  longtime girlfriend of host Ricky Gervais had the right gown for her figure, in the right color for her skin and a perfect fit. Love everything about it.

64th Primetime Emmy Awards - Arrivals

Julianna Hough was showstopping in a seafoam green beaded gown by Georges Hobeika. This gown was simply gorgeous; the cut, the detail, the color – LOVE IT!

Julianne Hough

January Jones took a serious fashion risk with the Zac Posen gown. Looking as if it was made entirely of horsehair braid, this gown is a work of art. Not like one of those  Lady Gaga ‘artsy’ gowns made of meat  but, a gown that is so well constructed and so well thought out that it almost has the opposite effect: to appear to be thrown together. Look at it again. Look at it again. It is a work of art and it fits magnificently. She dropped the ball by not accessorizing, wear clunky shoes and not doing something a little more deserving with her hair. When you wear a piece like this you have to go the extra mile.

64th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards - Arrivals

Who were you favorites from the 2012 Emmy awards?

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

The Great Pantyhose Debate

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Is it just me or does anyone else think the pantyhose industry is hanging on by a very thin lycra thread?? Pantyhose were all but abandoned by women in the mid-1990’s when Princess Diana showed up to an event (mid-divorce) in a  knee-length cocktail dress with a bare leg. Her fans went wild! The queen frowned, Prince Charles hardly noticed and women around the world breathed a collective sigh of relief.

I will admit, I love pantyhose. But, every situation is unique and I can tell you that there are many occasions when I am adamantly opposed to stockings of any kind…hint:  Summer 2012 was a HOT ONE!! Therefore, I can take either side of the pantyhose debate.

Situations where pantyhose or tights or stockings might be preferred : many job interviews, some offices, probably in court, maybe a funeral,possibly to meet the Queen and always if it is very cold outside.

Situations where they are not neccessary: Some job interviews, with a longer skirt, in the summer months, with open toe sandals, to meet the first lady (who rarely wears them) and never when it is 100 degrees outside.

Although there are those of us  who swear the pantyhose days’ are numbered, some say that sales are up nearly 40% from last year. This is due  (in large part) to the current Princess, Catherine, who wouldn’t be caught dead without her super sheer, nude stockings.

Kate Middleton's sheer tights

The only rule for weddings is this: If one bridesmaid wears them, everyone must wear them. For guests, it is up to each individual to decide. Iron this out early and decide if you are comfortable without, go without. But, make sure your shoes are comfortable enough to avoid blistering. On the other hand, if you feel under-dressed, wear them. To avoid looking outdated,  look for something as close to the color of your skin as possible to achieve the perfect ‘nude’  look and whatever you do – avoid suntan pantyhose at all costs (or you may be mistaken for a Hooters waitress)!

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

 

 
 
 

 
 
 
   
   
 
 
    
 
 

 

 

Wedding Budget – The Breakdown

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Being on a budget of any kind is tough. Don’t let anyone fool you – EVERYONE is on a budget and whether it is smaller or larger in dollar value, there is an amount that everyone must stay within. The budget for your wedding is no different, it is just a little trickier.

Decide on the total dollar value you are able to spend on your wedding, and divide the finances as follows, using your preferred wedding budget template. Using a template or specific program is a must – and there are dozens available on the internet!

Remember that taxes and tips are included in the total amount:

40 Percent – Estimate to spend 40 percent of a budget on the reception venue. This includes food, beverages, staffing, taxes and tip. 

10 Percent – Ambiance. Flowers, lighting, decorations will add up quickly.

10 Percent – Music for reception; band, DJ or both.

10 Percent – Photography for the entire event. If you plan a photobooth, include it in this category.

10 Percent – Attire. Brides entire ensemble (headpiece, veil accessories, shoes), groom’s entire ensemble – head to toe.

3 Percent – Favors and gifts for guests, including all attendants’ gifts.

3 Percent – Ceremony. This includes marriage license, ceremony flowers, officiant fee,  musicians (different from reception music). This is it’s own category!

3 Percent – Invitations, save-the-date cards, table markers, guest book, place cards, gift card holder, pen that guests will use to sign the guest book, programs… are all included in this category.

3 Percent – Sweets. Cake, sweet table, individual cakes or desserts.

1 Percent – Transportation costs, bus, limousine, however you plan to get your party from point A to point B (here’s to find out more).

The last 7 percent is for ICE. No, not frozen water… In Case of Emergency. Use this money if something suddenly happens and the cost of one of your categories increases. You fell in love with  gown slightly out of your price range, there is an unexpected surcharge or corkage fee or cutting fee. Having an emergency fund  will save you a lot of aggravation.

It is important to remember that every couple’s budget may vary depending on their vendor preferences and that each couple may have different priorities when it comes to their wedding. You can set yours accordingly, borrowing a percent from one category to make up in an other.

However, there is only 100% so, make sure your figures add up!!!

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

How to Spend your Wedding Budget article photo

 

 

The Politics of Fashion

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The election season is in full swing, both parties’ national conventions have come to a close and now it is time to look at what’s really important: Fashion! Okay, realistically –  it doesn’t matter what the candidate’s wives wear before, during or after the election but, it is easier for me to debate fashion than policy with most people since one is a matter of personal opinion and the other is a matter of personal opinion… wait… it’s the same thing?

Anyway, I thought it would be fun to take a break from wedding planning and peek into the closets of the candidate’s wives.

Janna Ryan – She  may not be a household name yet, but, don’t mess with her because this 43 yr old former lobbyist is in good enough shape to kick butt and take names. With about 0% body fat from where I sit, she can wear literally anything she wants but, she opts for slim straight, ultra conservative looks straight from the Talbbot’s catalog. Don’t hold your breath for any trendsetting, just solid clean lines and simple silhouettes. Really simple. So simple that it is almost impossible to find any kind of style.

Jill Biden – When the Vice President-elect’s wife, a life time educator, showed up in January 2009 at the Inaugural festivities wearing knee-high boots, I thought this was someone I could relate to…. she has a fun side. Although still very conservative, she showed up later that night in a stunning red strapless gown by one of our favorite designers, Reem Acra, looking both youthful and stunning. Still not one to go all out glam, she can wear anything she wants with her with slim figure and great arms for any age.

Ann Romney – Mrs. Romney’s style might be best described as quiet sophistication. With abundant wealth and  nice figure, the world is at your fingertips, which is why her Oscar de la Renta convention dress seemed an odd choice to me. It was slightly dated, reminiscent of a 1950’s housewife; a simple shirtwaist dress in bright red. In any color or shape, she exudes class and style and knows exactly what appeals to her audience.

Michelle Obama – The First Lady is all over the map when it comes to style, mixing expensive pieces with vintage pieces with Old Navy. You never know what she will wear but, for the most part she hits it out of the park. Never afraid to accessorize, her style is way less conservative than her counterparts and she will occasionaly surprise with a quirky, chic ensemble that could never be described as boring.

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

Slow Down!!

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Planning a wedding can take a lot out of you. Add work, family, holidays, pets, family,  household chores, errands, financial stress, (did I mention family) and you have what could turn into a complete meltdown. I mentioned family more than once because family causes not only a great deal of happiness, and a lot of stress. It is easy to get caught up in constantly going from one project to another at such a fast pace that you sometimes forget what you are doing.

As a couple, you need to remember what is important that made you want to be married. Not the wedding, not the flowers, not the dress but, each other! Take one day in the middle of all of the fuss and stress and drama to just SLOW DOWN and enjoy life.

To fully enjoy a ‘slow down’ day here are some tips:

-Unplug your cell phone, put away your laptops, take a time out from technology. No facebook, no skype.

-Visit a local tourist attraction that you have always wanted to see but never had time.

– Do something outside your comfort zone. Ziplining, paintball, bowling, go for PBX electric skateboards, whatever it is that you don’t usually do, do it. Segway through the city?

– Turn the day into a movie marathon. Rent a bunch of movies you have been longing to see but, never have time. Popcorn, snacks, cuddle up on the sofa and enjoy!

– A day of relaxation and pampering for both of you. Get a massage facial, manicure and pedicure.

-Spend the day in the garden, if you have one. If you don’t – find an Arboretum near you and plan your future garden or just enjoy the beauty of nature.

There are dozens of things you can do to slow down. The important thing is to make a commitment to taking this day to yourself and don’t let anything interrupt you. The wedding planning and decision making can wait one day.

-Penny Frulla

 

 

Going White For Your Wedding?

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Are you one of the many brides and grooms considering teeth whitening? Consider this: your smile is the first thing that people notice about you and the last thing you want to overlook on your big day!

Both bride and groom should schedule a dental checkup about six months before your wedding day, says the representative of Alaska Dental Associates. This allows time to handle any pesky problems and to see if teeth-whitening is something for you to consider. Remember, you will be photographed more on this day than in any other time in your life.

There are several types of teeth whitening, none of which are terribly expensive and can make a huge difference in your appearance and confidence level for the day.

Laser Whitening–  Done in the dentist’s office, allow 3 hours and approximately $400. It is not a painful proces and will leave you with Movie Star teeth after one visit.

Trays – The dentist makes a mold of your teeth which takes about a half hour and then you can do the whitening at home. Expect to spend roughly $20o for the tray and initial whitening solution. The bonus is you can keep getting refills of the solution and keep your teeth white forever!

Strips  – Many over-the-counter strips boast dentist office results. Yes, they do work and the price varies. With these strips, it may seem like you are saving money but, over the course of time you will spend nearly as much as if you had visited the dentist. The bonus is that it can be done at your convenience, some can even be done while you are sleeping.

It is extremely  important for  brides and grooms-to-be to do a little research, talk with your dental professional and come up with a solution that works for you.

Make sure to check our Wedding Directory links to find a smile professional in your area.
Reference: https://www.glosshairboutique.com.au/teeth-whitening-service/

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

Modern Manicures

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 Gone are the days when every bride has to have clear or french manicure, gone are the days when the only right thing to do is the same thing everyone else does. When it comes to manicures, everything has changed and the only thing that works, is what works for you!

Here are some of my favorite manicures; from classic to fun, from sexy to funky, from sassy to chic!

Tiffany Manicure –  Just the right color with a touch of bling!!

Pinned Image

Reverse French Manicure – Comes in two varieties; the tips are color instead of white or the nails and tips are different shades of the same color.

Half  Moon Manicure –  Done in any combination of color or clear, this manicure can be flashy or subdued depending upon your color choice!

Louboutin Manicure –  The underside of the nail is painted red…. very clever! You don’t have to use black as the top color, either. Grammy winner Adele used silver when she graced the red carpet last year to pick up her golden statues.

Bling Manicures – Nothing like a little sparkle to make you feel like a million bucks on your big day. Whether it is a little or a lot, ladies are loving the nail glitter and crystals.

Caviar manicure – This very specific nail laquer comes in a variety of colors, the most popular for brides looks tiny little pearls on your fingernails.

Remember, whatever you decide, always hire a professional to have a ‘polished’ look.

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

 

Trends in Wedding Accessories

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Years ago, brides didn’t have to worry much about what kind of jewelry to wear on their wedding day, it was your mother’s pearls and a pair of diamond earrings and there were not too many other choices. Today’s brides have so many choices, it is sometimes overwhelming to try to narrow it down.

In the 1980’s when my career in bridal fashion began, the motto was “More is better”. Turns out, that was not so true, after all. Looking at bridal portraits from the 1980’s with giant poufy veils, shoulder dusting earrings, gigantic cluster necklaces and the chunky, beaded headbands or (God Forbid) huge bow on the back of the head, you have to ask “What were you (we) thinking?”.

The 1990’s saw a departure from the lavish accessories and designers made specific matching bridal jewlery sets of earrings and necklaces that incorporated the same type of stones or jewels as the dress. The tiara was in and the poufs were out… big time!  By comparison, the 90’s were dull. The motto was “Less is more” and brides across the board adapted this as their mantra.

 

The most recent trend is probably the most fun and exciting, “Be Yourself!”  Sashes encrusted with crystals of varying colors, beautifully crafted vintage inspired earrings with clear or colored stones, large bracelets of small stones and necklaces of every size, shape and dimension imaginable.  Instead of copying a look from a magazine, brides are making their own fashion statement with the use of accessories in every shape and form. It’s exciting, it’s fresh and it is NOW!

Tips to avoid over-accessorizing:

If your earrings are longer than 2″, you might not need a necklace.

If you can afford it, diamonds never go out of style. A simple diamond choker (and earrings) looks as good now as it did fifty years ago.

Choose your style according to the theme. If it is boho, vintage or hollywood glam, stick to it and don’t try to bring in an unrelated peice…. it will throw off the overall look.

Necklaces should be comfortable against the skin. If you have extremely sensitive skin, some costume jewelry may cause an unflattering reaction.

Your headpiece should fit easily into your hairstyle, don’t force it. Not every headpiece works in every type of hair,

Beware of bracelets that snag the fabric of your dress. Test bracelets next to a pice of clothing to see if they are too grabby.

Remember, accessories should accent your overall look, not overpower it.  Have fun with your choices but, remember that your wedding day look should be timeless, whether it is 1953 or 2012.

 

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago

Sunday Weddings

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Labor Day and Memorial Day are two very popular dates for weddings because of the 3 day weekend. The most popular day of the 3 day weekend is Sunday and everyone knows that booking a Sunday wedding saves plenty of  money.

Need a few more reasons?

The three day weekend also gives your guests an additional day to recover from the festivites (Monday) or travel before returning to work on Tuesday. Most people don’t have to taky any time off!

Sometimes airfare and hotels can be a bit more expensive when traveling on a holiday weekend but, if you book the travel together (encourage everyone to use the same travel agent) there may be some discount.

Out of town guests may want to use the 3 day weekend to have a mini vacation to rest, relax and sight-see. A happy guest is…. a happy guest!

The weather is usually warm and pleasant in both May and September, many times avoiding heatwaves and torrential downpours (depending upon your geographical location).

One last bonus: you can use an Americana theme without being corny. Labor day is the day that is designated to celebrate the workers, the people who built this country with their blood, sweat and tears. The  men and women who toiled in unsafe conditions decades before Norma Rae put down her work and held up that now famous sign. Celebrating America’s workers, and America herself is a great way to begin your life together.

Weigh the options, take all things into consideration and see if  a Labor Day Wedding is right for you!

 

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago