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Do I Use My Married Name On My Second Wedding Invitations? – Ask The Expert Answer

July 23, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Shirley:

I am divorced and legally use my married name. I am getting married again so, will I use my married name on the wedding invitation?

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Shirley, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  Yes, you would use your legal name on the wedding invitation.  This video on how to word wedding invitations will help you with the wording of your wedding invitations. 

As an ‘encore bride’ —someone who has been married before—there are etiquette rules for you that do not apply to a first-time bride.  For example, although whomever is invited to your bridal shower must be invited to the wedding, you would NOT invite people who attended your first bridal shower to your second bridal shower.  They have already given you a wedding shower gift.  You can, of course, still invite them to your wedding.

Although, at an encore wedding, you can have a wedding dress, it is usually more subdued and less flamboyant than at a first-time wedding.  Most encore wedding dresses tend to be cocktail length dresses, or a classy couture suit that can be worn again.  Although blusher veils (over the face) are not used at an encore wedding, a short veil is acceptable.  An encore bride usually wears a hat, hair ornaments or fresh flowers in their hair instead of a veil. 

The size of the bridal party is usually smaller at an encore wedding.  In addition, when it comes to the receiving line, the parents are not usually included (unless they are paying for the wedding) and any children the couple may have are included in the receiving line. 

Just because you are having an encore wedding, it does not mean you cannot have an elegant, and sophisticated affair.  It just is smaller in scale than a first wedding. 

Enjoy!  and if you have further questions, feel free to email again, or comment below. 

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Invitations, Invitations, Planning, Reception, Tips & Advice, Traditions, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

What Length of Bridesmaid Dress is In Style? – Ask The Expert Answer

July 1, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Andrea:

What’s more in style these days for bridesmaid dresses, short or long?  Our wedding will be in July 2010.  Thanks.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Andrea, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  It is more common ‘these days’ for bridesmaids to wear T-length (short) dresses.  Why?  more and more weddings are informal or contemporary, and long dresses are for more formal weddings. 

If you are having a sophisticated, formal, elegant wedding, long dresses are much more suitable than short ones.  If you are having an informal outdoor wedding, short dresses are more suitable.  It really depends upon your wedding theme. 

So, it depends, really on the vision for your wedding.  The type of wedding you choose is really a reflection of your personality as a couple.  Are you an upscale kind of couple?  Then your wedding choices should reflect that.  If you are a casual couple, your wedding choices should reflect that.  The length of dresses you choose for your bridesmaids will also be a reflection of your style as a couple.

Take a look through the bridal magazines to see the major trends in dresses.  It will give you an idea of what is "in" and what is not.  Good luck, and if you have any further questions, feel free to ask.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Outdoor Weddings, Planning, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses, Wedding Reception Themes

What Is Appropriate Dress For An Upscale Reception? – Ask The Expert Answer

June 14, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Susan:

Hello and thank you -  This is a good friend and co workers wedding.  It is at 5:00pm with a sit down dinner reception at another location which is an exclusive plantation clubhouse.  Would black slacks and a very nice silk top be appropriate for this?  I am a 43 yr old single mom in South Carolina, Beaufort. Thank you.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Susan.  Yes, your attire sounds appropriate.  Ensure you have a nice pair of heels (no flats) to keep the look upscale.  Nice bridal accessories like jewellery or a scarf will complete the look.  Enjoy!

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

Filed Under: Accessories, Ask The Expert, Reception, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

How To Find A Bridesmaids Dress With Flowers At The Hem – Ask The Expert Answer

May 24, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Amy:

Can you help me find white bridesmaid dresses with multi colored flowers at bottom?

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Amy.  I have never seen a bridesmaids dress like you are describing.  That is not to say it doesn’t exist.  There are thousands of dress manufacturers all over the world, and depending where in the world you live, you will have access to different dress lines and designers than someone in another part of the world. 

Finding a nice white bridesmaid dress is easy.  In fact, some brides who are having an informal wedding often choose a nice bridesmaids dress for their wedding dress.  Flower appliques are numerous—check your local sewing shops.  Having them applied to an existing dress is a nice option if you cannot find a ready-made dress to your liking.  Just "google" flower appliques for a wide variety that you can choose from.

If you have any other questions, feel free to email again.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

What Kind Of Wedding Dress Should I Buy? – Ask The Expert Answer

May 21, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Annie:

Hi there, I’m getting married next year and I have no idea what kind of dress would look good on me.  I’m only 5′ tall and I’m really worried that I will look funny in a real, long wedding gown. I’m also an XS and for a petite person, my chest is really big.  I just don’t want to look like I’m drowning in my dress.

Thank you for your help! :)

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Annie, a long gown will actually elongate your body and make you look taller—especially an A-line style or something that doesn’t visually "cut you off" at the waist.  What you need to do is pick a dress that balances your upper and lower torso so they look balanced.  If you are top heavy, choose a more flared skirt to balance the top.  A fitted waist will give your body definition and shape. 

Since you are short, you won’t want the big, flared princess style dress, but something with a more fitted shape, and a nicely draped skirt with some flow.

If you are unsure of being able to pick out the right dress, ask a friend or relative whose fashion sense you admire to help you pick out your gown.  The real trick is to have a balanced look to your body—upper and lower halves.  Many styles will do this, so try on lots of dresses.  If you sign up for my free wedding newsletter, you will receive the .pdf How To Dress Your Body Type which you might find helpful.

Good luck, and if you have further questions, please feel free to ask.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

What Is An Appropriate Dress For A Renewal Of Vows? – Ask The Expert Answer

May 18, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Barbara:

My husband and I will be renewing our 30th Wedding vows on the Carnival Valor cruise 12/06/2009, by the cruise Captain and I was wondering if you feel this dress would be an appropriate dress.

Would you suggest something more simple or another color? I was wondering if it is ok to wear white again? any advice would be appreciated.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Barbara, the dress is beautiful, and is entirely appropriate for a cruise wedding renewal of vows.  A renewal of vows can be either extravagant or simple depending upon the couple.  Many couples never had much of a "real wedding" when they first got married, so like to have a more extravagant renewal of vows.  

What you are planning sounds very appropriate.   A renewal or second wedding should be more subdued than a first wedding from an etiquette point of view.  A cruise renewal of vows is very popular choice.  Yes, it is perfectly fine to wear white again, but know that it is a more modern choice.  The traditional choice is to go with ivory, pale yellow or other soft colour.  The choice is yours. 

I think you choice is perfect.  Enjoy! and congratulations!

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

 

Filed Under: Anniversaries, Ask The Expert, Renewal of Vows, Traditions, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

Is It OK To Let The Bridesmaid’s Choose Their Own Styles? – Ask The Expert Answer

May 16, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Diletta:

Hi Angela.  I chose for my wedding a color theme: red and cream.  I told my bridesmaids that as long as their dress will be red and long I am happy.  Yes, I am not going to pick a style or material, I want them to feel comfortable with the outfit.  One of them already bought hers…and the wedding won’t be until next June (2010)!  Do you think I took the right decision?  Everybody told me yes, but I want the expert opinion!!! :)   Thank you,

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Diletta, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  The only concern I have is that not all reds are the same.  Some reds are quite bright, and some have a grey undertone, and not every person sees the same color or shade of color.  People are different, and how we see colour differs.  So, my question would be:  Do you want different shades of red for your bridesmaids?  If so, then yes, you have gone about it the right way.  If you want everyone to be the exact same colour, then you need to define the exact colour. 

Having everyone choose their own red colour and their own style is very "European"—the American style being more rigid in having everyone in the exact same dress. But you wanted my opinion.  Yes, I think you made the right decision in allowing everyone their individuality.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Colour themed, Colours, Red Wedding Themes, Themes, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

What Colours Go With A Red Wedding Dress? – Ask The Expert Answer

May 15, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Brit:

My wedding gown is red.  What colors should I use for Maid of honor and Bridesmaids?

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Brit, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  You have a number of choices for your MOH and bridesmaids.  You can go with lighter shades of red, or into the pinks.  Any of the yellow or green family of colours would work well with red.  Brown and black go well with red also—-although black is a pretty strong colour for a wedding, but it doesn’t seem you are afraid of colour!!  So, those are the usual colours that go with red, although purple works well with red it is not a combination that is often seen. 

Those are the basic choices.  Good luck and if you have further questions, feel free to ask.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Colour themed, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

What Kind Of Wedding Dress Suits Me? – Ask The Expert Answer

April 21, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Madiha:

Hi.  I want to wear some skirt or frock on my marriage but I don’t know which kind of dress suits me.  Please help me.  Waiting for an answer.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Madiha.  I can’t tell you what kind of wedding dress suits you without knowing what you look like.  The real key is choosing something that  gives your upper and lower body a balanced look.  If you sign up for the free SmartBrideTM Newsletter, you will receive a free .pdf called The Secret of Dressing Your Body Type.  Another way to figure it out, is to take a family member or friend with you to a wedding dress shop and try some dresses on.  Get their opinion, and the shop keepers will help you also.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

What Wedding Gown Style Suits My Body Type? – Ask The Expert Answer

March 8, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Adebowale:

Hi Angela.  I am a lady who is about 5 feet 7 inches.  I have broad shoulders and little or no hips.  What type of gown do you think will make me look quite shapely on my wedding?  Thank you for your anticipated help.  I really look forward to hearing from you.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  You have a cone shape or inverted triangle shape.  A cone shaped woman has a broader top and a narrower bottom. Broad shoulders, a medium bust, an average waist, narrow hips, and shapely long legs are all attributes of the cone shaped figure. When choosing a wedding gown, you want to aim for balancing out your top and bottom halves.

Choose a full skirt to balance the width of your shoulder. Your neckline should elongate you, like a deep V-neck. You don’t want a neckline that makes your shoulders look broader, and you must stay away from off the shoulder style bodices. The bodice style and neckline should both work to elongate your upper torso, with a vertical style. A ball gown style, or an A-line silhouette would both look great on your figure.

You might consider signing up for The Secret of Dressing Your Body Type for more details. 

Good luck, and if you have any questions, feel free to email again.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

What Colour Would Be Nice For A Bridemaid Dress? – Ask The Expert Answer

March 6, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Tamara:

Dear Angela, My wedding is coming up on July 4th 2009, and I’m having problems getting a colour scheme.  I really like the idea of having mostly white decorations, with possibly some bright centerpieces, (red,pink and peach).  What colour would you suggest for bridesmaids dresses?

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Tamara and congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  The .pdf I wrote called Wedding Colour Choices Made Easy might help you decide how to incorporate colours into your decor.  If you want to stay mostly white, I would recommend you use white with different textures.  That is how to create visual interest in a monochromatic look. 

Any one of your colours would work really well with white.  In fact, you could use both red and pink (next to each other on the colour wheel) in your decor, as they work really well together.  If you kept the colour tones the same (all bright or soft) you could even use peach with red and pink.  I would suggest red and pink, with touches of peach thrown in here and there in the flowers. 

There are some great bridemaid dresses here, including a wonderful After Six  bridesmaid dress here that comes in over 50 colours.  Any one of the colours you suggest would work nicely for a bridemaid dress, but I would see what colouring your bridemaids have to find a colour that suits their skin tone.. 

Remember that you can also accent your decor with wedding favours that can either fit into your "splashes of colour" or you can find neutral ones that will keep the soothing tone of your overall colour scheme.

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.  

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Candle Favors, Colour themed, Decorations, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

What Style Of Wedding Dress Would Look Good On My Body Type? – Ask The Expert Answer

February 27, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Kim:

Aloha, my name is Kim and I wanted to know what type of wedding dress would look good on me.  I’m not big but not small either.  I have a little meat on my
body, but I want to look good but don’t know what type of dress to get.  Thank you.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Kim and congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  When choosing your wedding gown, it is important to identify your body type.  I have written a free .pdf called The Secret of Dressing Your Body Type which talks about how to choose the right gown for your body type. 

The important thing to know when choosing your wedding gown is that when you wear the dress, your upper and lower torso must look balanced.  If either top or bottom half look out of proportion, you need to change the style of that part of the dress.  This article will explain dressing your body type in more detail.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

What Attire Should We Have For A Renewal of Vows? – Ask The Expert Answer

February 26, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Eloisa:

I am looking for a cocktail dress for myself and my husband is planning on wearing a suit although he feels strange being a little more dressed up then the guests and I try to tell him that we should a little bit more dressed up because we are hosting and it is our 25th anniversary.  We should be fine dressed up as I mention above even though we are having this event during the day and having a picnic style buffet for lunch.  Is our attire is good since we are renewing our vows? 

Also for my out of state guests, should I give them the info about hotels prices and rental car prices when I send the save-the-date cards or should I wait until they ask? Because they may need the info in case they want to stay in a hotel that is in the same city on where we are having the event? Thank you.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Eloisa.  Your attire sounds perfect.  There are some great cocktail dresses (sometimes called T dresses) which you can find at this link. 

As for your out of town guests, I would wait until they ask for additional information.  Informing them that you have the information is enough at this stage of the process.  This post about save-the-date cards gives a more complete answer. 

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

Filed Under: Anniversaries, Ask The Expert, Renewal of Vows, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

Where Can I Find A Butterfly Wedding Dress? – Ask The Expert Answer

February 24, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Heather:

I was wondering if anyone has an idea of where I could find a "butterfly" wedding dress. I would like to have a ball gown type dress with train and some sort of delicate subtle butterfly accents. Not too much color, if any.  I have only been able to find dresses that are either very very colorful, or really weird. I found one that was cute, but not what I was hoping for.  I would like to find my dream dress and sew some butterfly type jewels or accents on it myself if I had to, but my fiance wants me to have everything as perfect as I can and doesn’t think I should settle for anything less (I wouldn’t mind doing that at all).  Anyway, if anyone has any insight, I would greatly appreciate it :-)

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Heather.  I have not seen a butterfly wedding gown anywhere.  I suggest you get some pictures of what you want, and approach a seamstress to make it for you.  You can have it exactly as you want it.  Depending upon how complicated it will be, it might not be any more expensive than purchasing a dress and adding the butterfly details yourself.  Get more than one quote from seamstresses on what they would charge to make it for you.

If you have further questions, feel free to email me again.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

 

 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

How Do I Know A Cheap Wedding Gown Is Not Cheaply Made? – Ask The Expert Answer

February 23, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Jocelyn:

Hi Angela I want to know if you have heard of lily wedding?  It is a online site that I found on google it has cheap wedding dresses.  I want to order from there but I am worried it will be something cheaply made or nothing at all please help.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Jocelyn, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  I have not heard of lily wedding, but that doesn’t mean anything, as there are thousands of websites.  If you are unsure of a website, you can check the contact us, and about us information, and see what you can find out about the company.  You can phone them to speak to someone so you can get a feel for them.  What country are they from?  Will you be paying custom fees or import duty?  This will increase the cost of the dress.

There are many websites that sell wedding dresses, and most websites purchase from the same wholesaler suppliers.  I suggest you look around at other wedding shops to see if you can see the same wedding dress manufacturer and style.  If you can, you are probably buying the real thing.  Remember, you get what you pay for. 

If you have any further questions, feel free to email again.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

How Do I Choose A Wedding Dress That Suits Me? – Ask The Expert Answer

February 1, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Mariam:

Dear Angela,  I need your advice, I am 161cm high, pear shaped figure, but my arms (sholder to elbow) are full, which type of wedding dress suits me?  Thank you. 

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Mariam.  Check out this article on how to dress for your body type to get some ideas on what style gown you should be looking for. 

A pear shape figured woman is small and slender through the neck, shoulders and bust, has a shapely waist, and is fuller in the lower hips and thighs. You should look for a wedding gown that has a full skirt that de-emphasizes your hips, and a semi-fitted or tailored bodice that shows off your small top-half. The neckline can be wider to help broaden your shoulders and bring balance to the full skirt. A basque waist, strapless ball gown, or an empire waist dress style are the best bet for a spoon shaped figure. You definitely don’t want a mermaid or trumpet style dress.  

A traditional A-line style dress works with ALL body types.  If you don’t want your arms bare, you can consider a lace "jacket" that comes with many strapless wedding dresses.  Some wedding dresses come with shawls or wraps, but then you would be adjusting it all evening if you couldn’t find a way to pin it in a way you like. 

My recommendation is a wedding dress with a basque waist , or an empire waist, and a lovely full skirt.  The bodice should be form fitting, but comfortable, with cap sleeves.  I would also try some A-line wedding dresses on to see whether you prefer that look.  Whether you choose cap sleeves, a bridal jacket, or a wrap, think about your comfort on the most important day of your life. 

If you have any other questions, please feel free to email again.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

What Colours Go With A Pale Yellow Wedding Dress? – Ask The Expert Answer

January 26, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Brenda:

I am wearing a pale yellow dress, what color flowers should I use? 

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Here is an article on how to choose your wedding colours.  For articles that go into detail of each wedding colour scheme, try this article.  When it comes to choosing a colour to go with pale yellow, ensure you choose the same tone of colour—for example a pale mauve which is complementary to yellow.  If you want a harmonious colour, choose yellowy greens, or yellowy oranges.  You could also go with a variety of yellow flowers in different shades, with the greenery that comes with them.  That too would be very beautiful. 

Have you considered the different types of flower bouquets?  The type of bouquet you use should reflect you height and size, as well as how eleborate or simple your wedding gown is.  The above link explains this in more detail.

If you have any further questions, feel free to respond in the box below and I will reply to your questions.  Enjoy, and congratulations!

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses, Wedding Bouquets

What Colour Goes With Sky Blue For My Wedding? – Ask The Expert Answer

January 25, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Chelsea:

My fiancee and I haven’t exactly pinned down when we want the wedding yet, we’ve just worked out that we’d like a spring wedding outside in the ‘backyard’ of our farm.  After a semi long debate about colors we came up with one and I would really like 2 just so that its not over bearing.  Can I get some advice on what decent colors go with Sky Blue? He’s pretty well against any green and I still can’t figure out anything.

My other issue is towards my girls dresses. I have one plus sized (and fairly top heavy) brides maid, one very slender (and not so well endowed) brides maid and one very dark skinned maid of honour.  How can I coordinate all there different shapes and sizes with a single dress style? I don’t like each girl with there own style or what not of dress with my colors. I’m a little wierd like that I suppose… Help?

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Chelsea, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  Sky blue is a beautiful colour and a nice choice.   You can go ‘tonal‘ in your colour scheme with various shades of sky blue.  You can choose "harmonious colours" like dark blue and turquoise in the same colour tones.  You can pick a "complementary colour" like orange.  You can also put neutrals with sky blue, like white, cream, ivory, or beige.  Have you considered silver?  Silver and blue is a classic combination.  The important thing is to have the same colour strength or tone.  If you have a soft sky blue, your  accent colours should be soft also.  If you have a bold sky blue, the accent colour should be the same tone or boldness.   This article on choosing your wedding colours will be helpful.

When choosing what colours to put together, I often recommend looking at the wedding favours and the wedding decorations and wedding supplies that are available.  Sometimes you will find something you really love in colours that will inspire your colour scheme, and the good thing will be that you will have your wedding favours or decorations in which to bring those colours more fully into your wedding decor. 

Regarding your bridesmaid dress sizes, you have a lot of choices.   Most bridesmaid dresses that you order online come in everything from size 4 to size 28W.   This article on how to choose the right style for your body type will help you define the best choice.   The one style that suits every body type is a classic A-line dress. 

If you have any other questions, feel free to comment in the box below and I will respond.  Good luck and enjoy the process.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Colour themed, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

Where Can I Get A Pattern For A Wedding Coat with Train? – Ask The Expert Answer

January 18, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Lorraine:

Hi.  I want to know if you can tell me where to get a pattern for a long coat with a train attached for my daughter she is getting married next winter and I am making her coat.  She is having an outdoor wedding, and I can’t find a pattern anywhere.  I hope you can help me.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Lorraine.  I have never seen a pattern for a long wedding coat with a train attached.  I suggest you find a pattern for a long coat, and another for a train, and create your own original design.

If you visit your local fabric store, you will find a number of options in the pattern books available.  Also, Simplicity, McCall’s and the other usual pattern companies are on-line and you can search their pattern collections. 

If you have a picture of what you want created, Any Wedding Dress advertises that they can create any wedding dress from a picture.  I’m sure they can create a coat with a train if you had a picture of what you want.

Good luck, and if you have further questions, please feel free to comment in the box below.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert.

 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

How Do I Create A Fairytale Theme? – Ask The Expert Answer

January 13, 2009 By Leave a Comment

Question from Fenelly:

Hi. I’m from one of Asian country’s called Malaysia. I’m very confuse to arrange my wedding, were all question pop out from my mind, such as what should I do
for this fairy tale wedding, coz it will be done at basketball hall.  I choose my theme olour is silver blue during my reception.  I want to decorate the hall where
people can really feel the fairy tale theme. I will not have any wedding planner.  It will be my and my family.  Do u have any ideas for fairy tale wedding invitation card? maybe some photo for my flower girl, maid of honour, bride?  I as well need suggestion for what kind of flower and what colour suits with my theme colour.  Thanks you.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  Having your wedding in a basketball hall and wanting to create a fairytale theme will take some work.  The goal will be to use low lighting, and to have focal points for the guests to focus on. 

The first thing to address is the lighting.  You want the lights to be low and things to sparkle.  With low lighting, you can use light garlands entwined with sinamay mesh or tulle fabric.  The use of lots of candles will also create sparkle—you might consider groupings of candles for your table centrepieces.  The thing to balance with lighting is to have enough light to have your guests comfortable, and enough dimness to make the walls disappear.  By keeping everything away from the walls, you can achieve this.  Depending upon what lighting is available in the room, you might choose to purchase some inexpensive "up lights" from a lighting store.  These can highlight your focal points, and create more light in the room.  Focal points can be arches, large flower arrangements, or an ice sculpture.

Silver and blue are great colours, and you can find many ways to incorporate it into your colour scheme.  The silver will help create more sparkle in the room also.  There are some great wedding invitation that depict a fairytale theme, or you can choose invitations that emphasis your blue and silver theme. 

If you want dress ideas for your flower girl, bridesmaids, etc., try this link for a variety of choices.  I suggest checking with your florist to see what flowers will be in season when you are having your wedding, and what colours those flowers come in.  I suggest different blues and white for your wedding flowers, although you may want another accent colour.  To help you decide what colours will accent your scheme, I suggest you check out this excellent wedding colour article. 

If you have any other questions, feel free to email again.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Candle Favors, Decorations, Fairy Tale, Ideas, Invitations, Reception Centerpiece Ideas, Silver Favors, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

Wedding Colours – How Do You Put A Look Together From A Bridal Bouquet? – Ask The Expert Answer

December 19, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Question from Bailey:

I have fallen in love with the bouquet that was on the front of real weddings a couple of months back.  I know its probably not the best idea to base the wedding around that bouquet, but I love it!!  It was purples, blues, oranges and maybe some blue.  I really love the pomegranate colour for my bridesmaids and I want to have a plain strapless dress with a cathedral veil and a pomegranate sash.  Do these colours work together?  What could I use as an accent colour for the bridesmaids?  What are some centre piece ideas?  and with this colour, what time of year should I have the wedding??  Thanks a bunch!!

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Bailey, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  Let’s start with your colour choices.  Red-orange (pomegranate) and blue-green are complimentary colours (opposite each other on the colour wheel).  Hence, they go well together.  Blues and Purple are harmonious colours (next to each other on the colour wheel) and look wonderful together.  I would suggest punches of  pomegranate coloured flowers with your blues and purples in your bouquet.  This combination of blue, purple and pomegranate could then move into your total colour scheme for the wedding.  Your bridesmaids could have accent colours of blue and purple with the pomogranate.  I would suggest using both those colours (blue and purple) as opposed to only one of the colours, as it will have a more put together look, based on your bouquet.  Wedding table centrepieces would benefit from all three colours also. 

I saw that bouquet you mentioned, and it is very beautiful, so I am not surprised at your desire to have it for your wedding.  I would suggest you visit your florist with the picture of the bouquet, and find out what flowers they can use that match those colour tones.  You might find alternative flowers that are just as beautiful as those flowers, at a less costly price.  Then you need to ask the florist when those flowers you choose are in-season.  In-season flowers are cheaper than bringing in out-of-season flowers, so depending upon your flower choices and your budget, that should decide the seaons for you.  The colours you are interested in are perfect for any season.

A plain strapless wedding dress with a cathedral veil and pomegranate sash sounds beautiful.  When you are going for simple elegance in your wedding dress, I would suggest dressing it up with a pearl necklace, and possibly a tiara to contribute to an overall look of elegance.  If a wedding dress is more elaborate, then the jewellery needs to be more simple. 

There are many ways to go when coming up with centrepiece ideas—-almost all of them depend upon your budget.  Flowers are an obvious choice, and can be in a single vase, floating in water with candles or clustered in a multitude of vases destined for each guest.  If you want to move away from the obvious, I saw a gorgeous centrepiece made with dead branches, painted white, and strung with faux crystals and ribbons in the wedding colours.  There are so many choices, and they are limited only by your imagination.  Have you looked at all the choices you have for wedding decorations?   

Depending upon the wedding favours that you choose, that too can make a statement in your decor without the need to purchase other decorations.  For example, the bride and groom wine bottle stoppers are a whimsical touch, and having your wine grouped in the centre of the table with these bottle stoppers would make a great centrepiece.  The bottle stoppers can then be given away to the guests through a simple "game" like which couple at the table have been married the longest.  Looking through the wedding favours will give you more ideas of what you can do to decorate your tables.

If you have any other questions, feel free to email again.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Colour themed, Reception Centerpiece Ideas, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

What Type of Wedding Jewellery Should I Wear? – Ask The Expert Answer

December 9, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Question from Preema:

My gown is of ivory colour.  I would like to know what type of jewellery shouid I wear.  My face is small and ovel shape.  What type of hair style will suit me.  I have long hair too.  Thank you.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Preema, and congratulations on your upcoming marriage.  The most classic jewellery for a wedding is pearls, followed by silver.  The more modern use of crystal allows for variety in your wedding jewellery, and crystals comes in many different colours, so you can carry a theme colour into your jewellery for a modern look.

There are many choices that you have, depending upon the bodice of your dress.  If your wedding gown bodice is detailed, I would suggest a simple pearl strand.  If your gown is of a more simple style, you can go with a more detailed and full necklace.  You want the length of the necklace to sit comfortably between your neck and the top of the wedding gown.   Earrings and a tiara or bridal headpiece can accent your look, and give the illusion of more height.  If you have a full neck height wedding dress, then I would suggest earrings and a tiara. 

You say you have long hair.  This lets you play with many different styles.  I suggest you try different "up-do’s" to see what you like the best.  Take pictures of yourself with these hairstyles to see what they look like.  Although it is great to have a spectacular hair style, when you look back at your pictures, you want to see what you looked like in those years, so a style that is close to your regular look is most often recommended.  I suggest you ask a friend who is good with hair to come over one day and help you experiment with different looks.  Or, if you have a favourite hairdresser, you can visit him/her and see what they will recommend. 

It is always good to try a hairstyle out before the wedding to see if it is what you truly want.  If you are having a headpiece and veil, you might find that the hairstyle is really not that important because it is mostly covered up.  I suggest you try different hairstyles with your jewellery, headpiece and veil, because it will be a whole look.

If you have any other questions, please feel free to email again.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Jewelry, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

Is It Safe To Purchase A Wedding Dress Online? – Ask The Expert Answer

December 7, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Question from Angela:

My question is:  Do you think it is a good Idea to purchase your wedding dress online? I have a picture of a Allure wedding dress and I have also seen it at a local wedding store, I tried it on and I know my size. There is a big price difference in the store the dress is $2300 and the same dress by the same designer is $1200.  What advice can you give me>  I am thinking of purchasing this gown online.  Thanks.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Angela and congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  Thousands of wedding dresses are purchased online every day saving many brides a great deal of money.  Although we hear stories about the occasional ecommerce store being crooked, we never hear about the thousands of legitimate businesses that do well day after day.  The reason they can offer dresses at such a discount is because they don’t have to pay rent and utilities for a store, pay staff or the many other expenses that come with owning a store.  Just think what the cost of the dresses in the store are! 

If you are worried about the ecommerce store and it’s credentials, check the ‘about us’ page to see who they are.  Is their physical address listed on the site?  Is there a phone number?  Call them and ask some questions about the dress before you order to get a sense of what their service is like.  Go to Google, and type in a question about the store’s service to see if there are any complaints out in cyberspace about them.  If you are worried about the amount of money, check your credit card’s policies.  Remember you can cancel the payment within a certain number of days. 

I personally have been regularly ordering things online since 1992, and have never had a problem.  Trust your instincts, and do what is comfortable for you.  If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask them.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

Is Blue A Good Spring Wedding Colour? – Ask The Expert Answer

November 29, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Question from HELP:

I am getting married in May 2010… I like the color blue velvet for my bridesmaids.. it’s the one color my fiance likes.. and I’m warming up to it..  everyone I have talked to said ‘Thats a fall color’. and it’s too dark for May, and my matron of honor says ‘its YOUR wedding.. use which color YOU want!!’.  So is this true, or should I go for the lighter blue.. and not to mention I do have a dark red headed bridesmaid who has pretty porcelain skin.. and my matron of honor is a plus size girl.  Will this be good for them? becauseI am not having my bridesmaids look ugly in something I picked out!   HELP!

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Congratulations on your upcoming marriage, and on your wise choice for a Matron of Honour.  She is right.  It is your wedding, and you can use whatever colour you want.  The days of season colours have passed, and modern weddings are about the bride and grooms choices. 

Blue velvet sounds beautiful.  There are lots of blue colours, and if you have chosen a dark blue, the colours you put WITH IT will give it a spring feeling.  What colours you put with blue depends upon your taste, and this article on choosing your wedding colours will help you.  Complimentary colours are opposite on the colour wheel (like brown), harmonious colours are close in colour to blue (bluey purples or bluey greens), and tonal colours are different shades of the same colour.  Silver work really beautifully with all shades of blue.  You might be bold and choose yellows and purples with your blue. 

Look at advertising and paintings that have blue in them.  What colours are put with it?  What do you like?  Go to a paint store, and find colour chips that go with your blue.  Trust your instincts.  For spring, I would probably choose silver and white with the blue, or go into the bolder ‘colour triads’ and pick yellow and red, but it is a personal choice you alone should make.  I also like the idea of different shades of the blue velvet for each bridesmaid/matron.  That is an example of the tonal colour choice.

As for your bridesmaids, the blue sounds fine for them.  I recommend reviewing this article on how to dress different body types for help in ensuring your bridesmaids look great.   For your "plus size" matron of honour, I would recommend a simple A line style dress.  It is classic and works well with ALL body types.  Do not get hung up on the dress style, as I have seen many wedding weddings where each bridesmaid had a different style dress in the same material.  It looked lovely.  Also, the matron of honour can have a different style than the bridesmaids and still keep a uniform look to the bridal party.

If you have any other questions, please feel free to email again.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Colour themed, Seasonal Favours, Spring Weddings, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

How Do I Find A Wedding Dress To Suit My Body Type? – Ask The Expert Answer

October 26, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Question from Elena:

I am a chubby girl and, my wedding is in a few months. Which wedding dress should I get, because I want a dress that would cover my extra fat.  Thank you.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Elena.  Congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  I suggest you get a dress in a A-line style.  I suggest you go to a bridal salon and try some dresses on.  The staff at bridal salons work with all body types, and will be able to suggest a dress best suited for you.  Some dresses have lace bolero style jackets, and you may choose this if you wanted to cover your arms and shoulders if the style you like is off the shoulder. 

Good luck, and happy searching. 

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

What Are The Accent Colours For April? – Ask The Expert Answer

September 8, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Question from Terry:

My question is, what colours are commonly used in April for decor accents.  Thank you.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Terry.  As you can appreciate, the bridal industry likes to create the "in" colours for each season.  It is really a matter of personal preference for the bride.  Check the bridal magazines and you will see what colours the industry is pushing for the season.    

In general, colours tend to mimic the colours in nature for each season.  Spring tends to be more colourful than winter weddings when it comes to colours.  One spring may be pastels, and another spring it is bolder colours, but usually still in the same spring palette of greens, yellow, blues, etc.  The truth is, there is no "common" colour for any season when it comes to bridal fashion. 

The last few years have shown a marked increase in "untraditional colours" like brown bridesmaid dresses, and lavender or red wedding gowns to name a few examples…..and these colours are not specific to any season anymore. 

The bride gets to choose, and the bridal industry is making it easier for her to choose colours away from the old traditions of white wedding gowns, and pastel coloured bridesmaid dresses. 

I hope that answer your question.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

 

 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Decorations, Decorations, Ideas, Spring Weddings, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses, Wedding Table Decorations

Would Colours Would Work For A RCMP Wedding? – Ask The Expert Answer

September 7, 2008 By 1 Comment

Question from Karen:

I am wanting some suggestions about what colours would be good for dresses for a wedding where the groom is in the RCMP.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Karen.  Well the obvious red and white would work beautifully.  Red is a very popular wedding colour this year for bridesmaids dresses.  At the spring bridal show I attended, they even had red wedding gowns for the brides (amongst other colours).   Any of the colours of the dress uniforms of the RCMP would also work—red, navy and gold. 

If you check out the red themed weddings, you will find some interesting ideas on how to "do red".  If you don’t want it to be that obvious a theme, you could opt for traditional red roses, use a lot of white with another colour for accents and bridesmaid dresses.  This posting on wedding colours will show you how to choose alternative colours for your wedding theme. 

I hope this helps you, and if you have further questions, feel free to email again.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Colour themed, Red Wedding Themes, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses, Wedding Theme Collections by Weddingstar

What Is A French Bride’s Set of Bridal Clothing Called? – Ask The Expert Answer

September 6, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Question from Sarah:

Do you know what a french brides set of clothes is called please?

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Sarah, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding.  I believe you are looking for the word trousseau.  A trousseau is a term commonly used for the bride’s wedding dress, accessories, jewellery, lingerie, toiletries, makeup, and honeymoon clothing. 

Traditionally, the term trousseau included bed linens and bath towels for her new home, as well as new clothing to start her off in her married life.   If you want to know more about trousseau’s, do an internet search.  If you have any other questions feel free to email again.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Honeymoon, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

Is Europa Couture A “Real” Wedding Dress Designer? – Ask The Expert Answer

August 30, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Question from Almost A Bride:

Hello, I finally ended my search for a wedding gown when I came across a couture dress that a specialty shop was selling for $8900. The designer is EUROPA COUTURE however I have not been able to find one hit when I search them on the web. Is this a real designer or are they overcharging for something they put together in the back?

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hello and congratulations on your upcoming marriage.  I did a search on google.ca and found a lot of Europa Couture links including europacouture.com, and a beautfiul Europa Couture wedding dress on e-bay for just under $5,000.  One link has a list of places that Lady Diana shopped that did not have websites, and there was a link in one particular store descripton to Europa Couture which was one of the lines the store carried. 

As for ‘are they a real designer’, well, if I designed a dress in my basement I would be the designer of that dress.  I guess what you really want to know is if this is an elite line of bridal wear.  Europa Couture exists.  I suggest you ask at the specialty shop where you are buying the dress for more information about the designer.  After all, you are entitled to know everything about a dress that costs that much!  Enjoy!

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses

What Colour Goes with Lavender? – Ask The Expert Answer

July 30, 2008 By Leave a Comment

Question from Renee:

I am getting married next year and already have my dress. It is lavender with spaghetti straps and now I have to figure out what colours to put my M.O.H. and flower girl in. I have 3 people telling me different and need an unbiased answer.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Renee, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding. 

There are a number of colours that go great with lavender.  If you want to stay within the same side of the colour wheel, choose other purples, bluish purples, and mauves to go with it—variations on the lavender tone.  This is similar to monochromatic colour schemes when decorating a room. 

If you go to the opposite side of the colour wheel you will have more contrast and can choose from colours such as mossy greens, yellows, and yellowy greens.  A pale soft yellow in the right colour tone would be lovely.

I personally like a monochromatic look with lavender and would probably go with different tones of lavender for the MOH and flower girl each in different shades than your dress.  Silver would be a great accent colour.

There is no one colour that is perfect when choosing what goes with another colour—what is important is that the colour tones match.  If the lavender is a soft lavender, choose other soft colours in the same tonal family.  If the lavender is bright, your other colours should be in the bright tones.

I suggest you look at paintings, magazines ads, etc., and look for the lavender colour, and see what is put with it.  It will give you ideas on what to choose.  Go to Google or Yahoo! and search for "what colour goes with lavender" or type in "colour wheel" to see the colours that go with lavender.  You will find lots of ideas.  In the end, choose what you like best.

Enjoy!

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert

 

 

Filed Under: Ask The Expert, Ideas, Themes, Wedding and Bridesmaid Dresses
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