Dialogue: Buying a Dress Online

I remember when Ebay first became popular I was weary to buy anything online. It was just too weird for me to think that I would buy something without seeing it first. Then I bought a cell phone for the first time from Ebay, then textbooks and even shoes! Thank goodness Zappos lets you return them if they don't fit!

I remember when I was shopping for a wedding dress, I found one I loved and then someone sent me a link to the dress to buy at an online store for less than the bridal salon. However, I kept reading to stay away from online dress stores so I never even looked into it.

Source: classifieds.weddingbee.com via Ashley on Pinterest

Now I see lots of online dress stores, and even places where brides can buy and sell each other's dresses. This had me thinking how many brides are doing this now? So let's talk about it!

Are you buying your dress online or from a salon? What are the reasons why you would or wouldn't buy them online or from a salon? Are you buying a used dress from another bride? What brought you to that decision? I'm curious to know!

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Dialogue: Kim K and Vera Wang

You may have seen Kim Kardashian's Wedding on tv or maybe not. I am a Kardashian fan so of course I saw it and loved it! And of course, I wasn't go this week without talking about it! I remember when she came out for trying on each of her three dresses that I didn't really like them on her. But wait! Before you get mad at me if you don't agree, let me finish!

I didn't think they flattered her best, no disrespect to Vera because I love the dresses themselves!

But then I saw her at the actual wedding wearing the dresses and I guess it is the glowing bride thing that makes a bride look so beautiful and she totally rocked the dresses. So I thought she looked great!

{Source}

So in honor of  these gorgeous gowns, I thought we would discuss simply which is our favorite and why! Because I'm a sucker for ruffles and form fitting dresses, I have to with that lovely dress on the left in the picture above! So that is my fave, which is yours? Let's get this poll going!

"Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him." - John 14:21

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5 Ways to Get the Best Wedding Dress Photos

Today I have an awesome guest post for you discussing ways to capture your wedding gown in the best way for your wedding photography. I always love when I come across awesome Etsy finds, but I am even more excited when they can contribute great advice to my readers! The Wedding Hangers Etsy Shop brings today's post to us!



Everyone wants to have the best wedding photos they can get. After the wedding is over you are going to have hundreds of photos of the whole day from you getting ready to you dancing the night away. But one thing is to make sure to get pictures of your wedding dress. So no matter if you have three pro photographers following you around all day, or are having to do it all yourself, here are 5 of the best wedding dress photos to get on big day.

1. Your mother and maid of honor helping you into your dress and arranging your train. It can be a touching photo during a private moment on the big day. Of course you can include whoever you would like to in these pictures. You might want to include all your bridesmaids or any other close female friend for example.

Source: thebreathtakingbride.com via Claudine on Pinterest

2. A close up of your dress. Think about what sold you on the dress the first time - what made you know this is the dress for you? Everyone has that something special on their dress they love so make sure to get a close-up of it. It's going to be a photo you love to look at again.

3. Your shoes poking out from under your dress. This looks so so cute and quirky! You might have to get some help lifting your dress up to them off but it's worth it. Also, as you take this photo, make sure to get some of you clutching your bouquet and smiling. It can be a candid touch.

4. You gazing into a mirror after first getting into your dress. With no one else in the shot, this can be a strong pose full of both introspection and joy before you walk down the aisle. These shots look even better if your veil is on too. It's like you are all dressed up and having a brief, private moment before getting married. You'll love this very evocative and powerful picture. Framing this photo with the camera can be tricky but its well worth it.

5. Your wedding dress hanging up on a hanger. This can be a tasteful and beautiful shot that will delight you, and really shows off the dress you chose. One tip though - don't skimp on the hanger. Instead of hanging your beautiful wedding dress on a 50 cent cheap hanger, you can instead get a custom hanger made just for you. They are very tasteful and make the photo really come alive.

Photo by Wedding Hanger Shop

So remember that during your wedding day make sure to get these 5 special photos and you will have memories you will cherish.

Guest blog from WeddingHangerShop.com - your source for custom wedding hangers for your big day.

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Pickle: Wedding Dress Hunt Blues

I know it can be difficult to find the dress of your dreams because they are all so beautiful! How do you begin to know what you are looking for? How on earth can you narrow down your dress style? It can be overwhelming and you definitely don't want to try on 100 dresses and settle for one because you give up with the 101st dress might have been the one.

The Pickle: All the dresses are starting to all look the same to you and you worry if you'll find the one.

The Solution: Streamline the process so that you don't get burnt out and settle for less out of frustration.

Step by Step Wedding Dress Hunt
1. Collect Pictures
Print pictures, rip pictures out of magazines, get a collection of many dresses that get your attention and that you love. The more the better because it will come in handy on the next step.

2. Find Similarity Trends
After you have completed the first step, now it is time to lay them all out. Sit down with your mom or a girlfriend and go through the pictures together. Sort them by style, materials, etc. Then see which trend the most in the pictures. There you have it, the type of gown you are looking for! Keep those, toss the rest. You will bring those photos with you to the bridal stores and shops.

Find style information at WeddingSolutions.com

3. Determine the Budget
Determine first off before you go to the store what you are willing to spend. That way the store consultant won't show you a dream gown way out of your budget. You don't want to be heartbroken!

4. Try All Selections On
The Bridal Store Associate should be experienced enough to take a look at those pictures you brought in and take your budget and bring you a collection of gowns to try that fit your requirements. No you may see some that are a stretch to what you want but this is not the time to be picky. Try on EVERY dress. Sometimes the one you think look good on the rack don't look on you and the ones that don't look good on the rack look spectacular on you! You never know!

5. Never Settle
You have narrowed down the dresses before you went hunting, but even that can be overwhelming. You may have doubts of whether or not you will ever find the dress. You may be torn between two dresses. Forget about them! The one will be the one dress you are meant for and you will know when you keep comparing every other dress to that one dress. Don't give up and never settle for less! 


What frustrations are you dealing with on your dress hunt? Do vent!

Better is the end of a thing than its beginning, and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit. - Ecclesiastes 7:8

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Pickle: The Perfect Beach Gown Top 5

Lately I have been obsessing over wedding gowns and as my husband gets closer to the end of his training, I have beach vacation on my mind. As a result I thought of coming up with my top five picks of the perfect beach gowns. 

The Pickle: You want the perfect gown for your beach wedding that won't drag in the sand, is light and flowy, won't give you a weird tan line and looks like a wedding gown rather than a cocktail dress.

The Solution: A short strapless gown. Your legs won't suffocate under the gown, your shoulders are free to enjoy the sun as you walk down the aisle and party away. And you can still enjoy that with gowns that look like wedding gowns. Here are my Top 5 Summer Beach Gowns:

5. Eugenia Couture #3508 
Counting down, I start with my number five pick. I love the upper body lace work and the sash possibly could be one of a different color to match your wedding theme or you can add to it with a floral addition or a bow.

4. Sincerity Bridal 3600
I love the lace flowers throughout the skirt making it look like a gown and of course, the upper body lacework giving that perfect wedding look. 

3. Destinations by Maggie Sottero RD1105
The gorgeous flowers on the torso area and the stripes at the bottom of skirt paired with the absolute lightness of the skirt puts this gorgeous Maggie Sottero at number 3. (That and I am in love with Maggie Sottero)

2.  Sottero and Midgley Santorini
Now that I've announced my bias to my love for Maggie Sottero, This Sottero and Midgley gown earned its place at number two. It has a lot of similarities of number three, but the more intricate flowers and the sweetheart line of this one earned it a higher place in my book.
(PS, both 3 and 2 are available at full length for you brides looking for full length gowns!)

1. Exclusive Bridals by Allure Style 2401 
It was hard not to put Maggie at number one for me, but the ruffles of the plunging sweet heart neckline won me over. That and take a look at the plunging back! This was the determining reason that put this gorgeous Allure gown at number one. Even better for avoiding tan lines and just sexy!

Which one of my picks would you choose for Number 1? Are you wearing a short gown for your wedding? Share links to your faves or comment about the ones I've picked! :-)

So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love. - 1 Corinthians 13:13

Dialogue: Royal Wedding Gown

Growing up I always thought I wanted a big ball gown to get married in. I believed it was what would make me feel like a princess! Of course with the Royal Wedding coming (I'm tuning in at 4am!) I can't get big ball gowns out of my mind! I have to say the biggest thing I am most excited to see is Kate's Gown. Especially since it will most definitely set trends for years to come!

When I got married, I wanted something light, easy to move around in, stylish, elegant and sexy. Now, I dream of that big dress again! If I had had a big budget and could do it over, I would have opted for the big dress for the ceremony and a soft, light dress as my reception dress.

While I wait in angst to see Kate's dress, I am going to pretend I am a princess getting married. Here are my picks:

Ceremony Gown: Yasmin by Maggie Sottero

The insane amount of ruffles in this dress just give it that poof that I always see myself in as a princess. Also, the plush skirt reminds me of the classic gowns of the Victorian era only with a modern twist.

Reception Dress: Style 2407 by Exclusive Bridals by Allure Collection

Chiffon is always my pick for a soft, elegant dress, and the flower on the front just gives it that unique touch. I feel like this dress just screams "I'm a Princess!"

Now, join in on the gown fun and share your link to your pick(s) as a princess!

Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her... - Ephesians 5:25

Dialogue: Wanting the Magazine Gown

You just got your first bridal magazines and you peruse the pages to find your dream dress. All of a sudden, you gasp. There it is! You rip it out and find yourself comparing every dress to that one. You have to have it.

Annika by Maggie Sottero

I remember watching an episode of Girl Meets Gown where a bride didn't like any dress because she had her heart set on the magazine dress that the store didn't carry. The owners seemed to be complaining in the commentary that it is hard when a bride wants that one gown and won't give other gowns like it a chance. Of course, in the end, she did end up with her magazine dream gown. They made it happen by pulling some strings!

I say, go for it! I wanted a magazine gown, but I did end up falling in love with a similar gown instead. Any of you brides-to-be or former brides have a magazine dream gown? Did you end up with that gown or with something similar? I love how-I-found-my-dress stories so do share!

All glorious is the princess within her chamber; her gown is interwoven with gold. - Psalm 45:13

Dialogue: Wedding Dress Colors

When I bought my wedding dress I knew I wanted the pure traditional white dress. Of course I was well aware of dresses coming is champagne, beige, off-white, and many other white-ish colors. I also was aware of brides adding color to their dress with trim or ribbon.

Helene Bridal

Lately, something else has caught my eye. You might have seen on David Tutera's My Fair Wedding the bride whose Alice in Wonderland wedding included a black dress. Or maybe you saw Real Housewives of Atlanta where one of the ladies got married in a silver dress.

What I love most about those dresses was how much it captured the brides' personalities. What do you think about different colored dresses for wedding gowns?

There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise. – Galatians 3:28-29

Pickle: It Costs How Much to Alter My Dress?

The holidays are over. I hope everyone had a great one! I'm back to posting regularly, so no more waiting.

If you are on pretty tight budget, this is an issue you cannot overlook. You maybe found the perfect dress but it is right at budget or a little over budget. You are debating that it is totally worth it. And, it might be but there are some extra costs brides often overlook.

How much will it cost to alter your dress?

 The Pickle: You found the dress, but it may the thing that busts your budget. You didn't take into account the cost for alterations, tax, and the veil/headpiece. All together, the costs can have your jaw dropping to the floor.

The Solution: I am a strong believer in the dream dress and never settling for less. So the key to finding the best price for your dress to to check with as many bridal stores that carry the dress designer as you can.

I found my dress at one store, the only store in town that carried the exact dress for me to try on. Once, I knew it was The One, I didn't buy it right away. I searched and found another store that I  knew carried the designer of my dress. The plus was that they had a $200 dollar off anniversary sale and free alterations. This not only covered the cost for my headpiece but my shoes as well! Talk about a deal!

Steps to take:
1. Make a list of as many bridal stores you can, and are willing to drive to, that carry your dress designer. (Remember, they don't have to carry the actual dress)

2. Check the tax rate in the different areas that those stores are located. This can help you determine what you save in addition to what they offer.

3. Ask for any sales or specials. They may not mention it right away, so it never hurts to ask. There might be discounts or free stuff thrown in with your purchase up to a certain amount. You may get a free veil out of this!

4. Ask about alterations. Do they have their own in-store tailor? Is it discounted? Is it included with your purchase?

If you are on the fence on some dresses, take these things into consideration as well to save some money.
~ See if the dress model has a corset back option instead of a zipper. If you gain or lose a little weight, a corset can be more forgiving and will keep the dress from having to be altered again.
~ Lacier designs can cost more to alter. For example, below the first dress will be a lot simpler to shorten then the second one, which will no doubt take extra work just to move the lace floral designs up. (P.S. I am a Maggie Sottero fan if you haven't noticed!)

Amina by Maggie Sottero

Bernadette by Maggie Sottero

Did any of you get shocked with the costs of alterations? Good luck for those of you still searching. Hope this helped!

Christmas Gift

I got this in my email and thought I would share this. It is only available to the first 100 and as of right the time of this post, there are only 19. If you are having a hard time choosing a dress, this could be a pretty cool opportunity from an actual dress designer!

Email Content:

amy michelson 

Happy Holidays beautiful brides!  It is my pleasure to give you a fun designer present :) We've been having a great time on our Amy Michelson Bridal Gowns Facebook page, seeing gown posts from our gorgeous Amy brides. So I decided to create something NEW for your  holiday gift... a FREE one-on-one photo consultation for YOU, with ME on Facebook!   It's like a bridal Facebook fashion game... want to play?   I have a secret amy michelson style strategy  and mini essence quiz  I use in my bridal designs  (not used by any other designer, magazine or bridal salon)   that makes each bride look  her most exquisitely beautiful self on her wedding day.  Now through january 15th only, as an exclusive FREE gift for our first 100 Facebook fans to sign up, (a $$$$ value for personal consultations!)    I will personally look at your top dress picks and share how to make  the perfect, stress free choice  to look off-the-charts gorgeous! (and no, they don't have to be "amy" gowns!) :)   for the first 100 brides who enter here's how it works... TAKE THE MINI ESSENCE QUIZ and enter your answers in the message block of the facebook photo album you will send us!

Your Love Essence Quiz: Choose one letter- A,B,C or D that best describes the real you! A   Ladylike, serene, princess, thoughtful, dusk/twilight energy, graceful, thoughtful, gentle, orderly, gracious, lady of the manor, intelligent, sensual, lovely B   Earthy, lioness, firelight energy, harvest goddess, productive, dynamic, grounded, centered, purposeful, strong traditions, outdoorsy, spicy, passionate C   Fresh, playful, sunlight energy, fun loving, relaxed, buoyant, sexy, knockout, inspiring, light, creative, upbeat, outgoing, related, flirty, alive, new D   Cultured,  refined, elegant, priestess, moonlight energy, queen, sophisticated, calm, inner excitement, still, meditative, high quality, urbane, fine, exotic   Your Bridal Essence Quiz: choose any 5 words that best describe how you want to look. extravagant, fairytale, opulent, princess, corset, castle, bejeweled,  ball gown, church timeless, elegant, classic, minimalist, clean lines, city, sheath, chic, old Hollywood simple, hip, sexy, trendy, glamorous, relaxed, beach, goddess, flowing, mermaid feminine, dreamy, bohemian, eclectic, vintage, lacey, soft, country, rustic, garden   Your Details: hair color ~ eye color ~ skin tone (fair, olive, pale, freckled, tan, brown, pink etc.) ~ height ~ wedding location Write down Your Love Essence letter (A-B-C or D)Your 5 Bridal Essence words and Your Details. You will need to include them in the message block of the facebook photo album you will create. You'll create a Facebook album with: 1 head shot   1 full body shot   and 3 shots of favorite gowns you have tried on.

Now here are the 5 simple Facebook steps: We know that you already like us but become a Facebook Fan by pressing "Like" on our "Amy Michelson Bridal Gowns" Page. (see link at bottom of newsletter)   Use your Facebook search engine to find our secret bridal hideaway - search the words "Amy Unbridaled" and send a Friend Request (this gives you access to send us your photos). Create an album on your own Facebook Page.  Upload your five pictures (info listed above) and title the Album with your First Name followed by the word Bride, for example: "LisaBride"  so that we can easily identify it.  After they are all uploaded, in the Messageblock , please include Your Love Essence letter (A-B-C or D)Your 5 Bridal Essence words and Your Details for Amy to use for her recommendation. Re-open your new album.  At the bottom, click on "Share This Album".  Send it TO: Amy Unbridaled.  WE'RE DONE! ;)  * Please be patient, this a NEW WAY to use FACEBOOK! and be patient as Amy gets through each consultation.

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This is very exciting... I can't wait to see YOU

 and your pictures online :)

Happy Holiday and New Year! 

XOXO,

Santa Amy ;)

Pickle: Where Oh Where is The Dress?

You are flipping through the bridal magazines and there it is! You have found THE Dress! Immediately you begin calling Bridal stores that carry the designer to see if they have THE dress.

The Pickle: The dress is a part of a new line of dresses from the designer that no store has the dress for you to try on. Do you risk ordering it anyway without seeing how it will fit on you?

The Solution: Pretty simple really, call the store and ask what they can do. Ask about a loaner program. You might be able to have the dress ordered in to the store for a few days for a fee. Then you can try it on and see if it is really THE dress. Also, check to see if the fee can be applied towards the cost of the dress.

The dress in a magazine I dreamed of. (Fiorella by Maggie Sottero)

Now, what if you called everywhere and not one store has a program like that? Bring the picture to the stores and see if a similar dress is available to try on. You will get a feel of how you might look in that particular style. Who knows? You may just fall in love with the similar dress and know exactly how you look and feel in it. The secret to finding the one really lies with trying things on. You never know how much you love or hate something until it is on you.

The similar style dress I tried on, fell in love with and bought. (Leoni by Maggie Sottero)