African American Brides Blog

The Charm of Short Wedding Dresses

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 19:31:00 +0000

A while back, we heard from reader Sabrina Castro who sent us an email with her wedding picture attached. She was wearing a short wedding dress in the photo and said she wanted to encourage any other bride who might be considering the same idea. She was definitely on to something because now short wedding dresses are more popular than ever and designers are making them in all price ranges.

Design Visage

Iman Bridal

Tia Mowry on CW

Oscar De La Renta

Courtesy of StyleAmor.com

What do you think of short wedding dresses? Do you think they should be restricted to casual or civil ceremonies? Would you consider wearing a short gown for your wedding or renewal? Do tell!

Wordless Wednesday: Terri & Isaac

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 21:54:00 +0000

Dajuan Jones
In His Image Photography
http://www.dajuanjones.com

Raucous Running of the Brides: Beantown

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 16:27:00 +0000

We all know that several times a year at major Filene’s stores around the country women line up overnight to participate in the Running of the Brides. During this event brides-to-be and their teams rush the doors for the chance to seek out the perfect discounted bridal gown. Sometimes, though, things can get a little wild - as they did in this video of last Friday's event in Boston.

So, what do you think? Is this something you would consider doing for yourself or for a friend? Have you ever participated in a Running of the Brides? Was it worth it? Tell us all about it in comments!

The AAB Weekly Reader

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 21:01:00 +0000

Happy weekend, beautiful people! In today's weekly reader, take a look at stories we thought you might have missed in the blogosphere.

Looking for a low-cost way to get a high-impact look on your wedding day? Miss Sassy and Queen B have some great tips for using drugstore cosmetics.

Take a look at another beautiful wedding showcased by GhanaBride.

DIY is the name of the game in today's economy. This recipe for mexican wedding cookies could be used for favors or desserts.

Thinking about having your dream dress custom-made? If so, be sure to ask these questions provided by Bride Chic.

Now tell us what you think about this: Should singles guests be allowed to bring a "friend" or significant other? Here's one guy's answer.

The owner of Peggy's Cupcakes makes cupcakes named after Marie Antoinette. They're probably the most luxurious cupcakes you'll ever see.

Have your heart set on an outdoor wedding? Take note of these 10 tips from the girls at Manolo For the Brides.

Wordless Wednesday: Nicka & Rashad

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 21:32:00 +0000

Rashad and Nicka Smith
Palo Alto, CA
Photography by Stacie

Music Monday: Classic Sade

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 23:51:00 +0000

"No Ordinary Love"
Sade

Sheila Bridges: Harlem Toile

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 21:50:00 +0000

- by Erica

I can't tell you how many times a week I wonder aloud, "But why didn't I know about this back when I was getting married???" This is one of those times. Last week I received an email from interior designer Sheila Bridges about her porcelain and glassware. The images I received showed off her gorgeous toile dishes infused with scenes of the African-American experience. But on her website, I also discovered chic bedding, furniture and wallpaper. Such style and class! But enough from me, take a look and let me know what you think! Would these pieces work for a wedding reception or even as a wedding gift?

See more on Sheila Bridges website, SheilaBridges.com

Alicia Keys & Swizz Beatz Tie the Knot

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 02:57:00 +0000

These pictures have been floating around the internet for days now. But since we're your source for all things bridal, we decided to give you our favorite shots all in one place. Enjoy!

We own none of these images.

Wordless Wednesday: Classically Vintage

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 18:48:00 +0000

The daughter of Hall of Famer Jim Rice fakes everyone out with a glorious tribute to classic vintage style.

Carissa & Andrew
Boston, MA
July 2010
Courtesy of wedding planner Chad Michael Peters and Person + Killian Photography

Wedding Gown of the Week: Tulle Ballgown

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 16:19:00 +0000

Tulle ballgown with beading by Camille La Vie

The AAB Weekly Reader

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Sat, 31 Jul 2010 17:07:00 +0000

Here are some of our favorite wedding and style links from around the blogosphere:

OK, you know that Chelsea Clinton tied the knot this weekend. But did you know about the nuptials of T.I. and Tiny???

And our friends at Aisledash are hearing that Alicia Keys might be wearing a Vera Wang gown for her upcoming wedding to Swizz Beatz.

Now let's say you didn't get an invite to any of these celebrity weddings or to a wedding you felt you should have been invited to. Yvonne and Yvette have some tips about taking the high road and being left out might be a good thing.

Take a peek inside a great, real-life bridal shower on UrbanFusion.

Still looking for more wedding-ish love songs? Check out this old school Jesse Powell classic on Chocolate Brooms and Bouquets.

And... controversy! Should you impose your dietary restrictions on your wedding guests? Weigh in on Eatocracy.

Have a great weekend!!!!

Budding Talent: From Fatima With Love

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 19:00:00 +0000

This week we were contacted by a lovely and talented young lady named Fatima Spencer who makes beautiful silk flower hair clips and accessories. Her creations are sold online at Flowers From Fatima and we think they would be perfect for many brides, flowergirls and wedding attendants. Take a look at some of our favorites and tell us what you think.

Themed Wedding Invites

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 16:27:00 +0000

-sponsored guest post

Shopping for wedding invitations can be more difficult than what meets the eye, especially when you trying to stay within the vibe of your wedding and your budget. I decided to check out the invites over at Invitations by David’s Bridal to find some inexpensive, yet classy invite ideas that would suit the various wedding day moods and themes you are all celebrating.

Autumn Feelings

Fall is creeping up and many are looking for a crisp look for your autumn vows. Details of leaves and candy apple colors are perfect for October and November weddings.

Lakeside Nuptials

Overlooking the water from a dock or lakeside home? Whether your color scheme is warm or cool tones, most invites will come in various color schemes. There were some great choices of seaside ceremony invites for Cape Cod type ceremonies.

Great Outdoors

I absolutely love these scenic cards highlighting the wilderness and landscape. They would fit perfectly for a Mid-western, ranch-style wedding or even a mountainside, log-cabin celebration.

Winter Wonderland

Just in time for the holidays, snow and winter white are perfect choices for the cooler months. Especially for those to wed in the north, a snowflake scene will still be fitting for couples walking down the isle after the festive season.

Destination

The dropping temperatures give any bride and groom the perfect excuse to escape to an island getaway to tie the knot. Get tropical with seashells, blue waves and palm trees that will get the guests longing for the set date.

Wordless Wednesday: Love Is Family

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 21:38:00 +0000

Mia & Torin
July 2010
Boston, Massachussetts
Courtesy of Person + Killian Photography

Musical Monday: Nina Simone

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:33:00 +0000

This post was inspired by one of our bloggy friends, though we can't remember which one. But somebody posted the Nina Simone song last week - and as soon as we can recall who it is, we're going to give credit where it's due! Happy Monday.

Figure Flattering Dress Tips & Trends

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 14:26:00 +0000

-sponsored guest post

Wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses can be difficult to search through when looking to compliment your best features. So here are some ideas for all you “soon-to-be” brides and your bridal party!

Full Figure

The best route is to not only highlight your best assets, but to tailor it to your figure. Like this David’s Bridal dress, an A-line, empire waistline gown is sophisticated and stylish, but choose your fabric wisely. Make sure it’s gathered in the right areas to accentuate your curves. If you do go for an empire waistline, make sure the waist isn’t too high underneath your bust.

Pear Shaped

A full, A-line wedding dress is the best silhouette for wider hips and narrow shoulders. Try a gathered, asymmetrical waist that will show off your curves in a glamorous way. A V-neckline will flatter your bust and an ordinate sash to draw attention to you mid-area. It’s best to avoid column dresses; they tend to emphasize your hips.

Small Bust

There is nothing wrong with creating a little illusion. You can use this season’s trends of bows and rosettes to add interest to your bust area with empire waistline. If you want an A-line silhouette, keep the bodice loose and consider slight padding to balance out the full skirt.

Boyish Figure

Showing off you best features, such as your legs and tummy are perfect for brides looking to create curves on their wedding day. Embrace this year’s runway trends and opt for a mini or shorter hemline. Sheath, column and A-line silhouettes will unexpectedly show off your best features while creating the appearance of a fuller figure.

Chic Maids

Is your bridal party a mix of sizes and body types? A great option for your bridal party is to do bridal separates that will flatter each body type. You can keep the same color palette and skirt length, but have each bridesmaid decide whether they would like a strapless, V-Neck, halter, blouson, or asymmetrical cut top.

For the Groom: Tuxedo, Suit or Other?

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:58:00 +0000

Fewer and fewer engaged couples are renting tuxedos for their weddings, according to eWedNews.com. Whether because of economics or style preferences or cultural traditions more grooms are standing at the altar in suits or other attire. What do you think? What will your groom wear? Do you prefer the look of a tuxedo or something else? If you were recently married, what did your groom wear?

Photo courtesy of Mitchell's Tuxedos

Bebe & Cece: I Found Love

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 16:20:00 +0000

Just had to share this internet gem with you. Last week we were contacted by a very nice lady who works for Bebe and Cece Winans. She let us know that the duo are still promoting their first album together in 15 years and also that they have an ecard featuring "I Found Love" one of the singles on the album. "I Found Love" is one of those rare, perfect wedding songs. If you heard the song when it came out a few months ago, or if you've never heard it before, take a listen and let us know what you think: http://ifoundloveecard.com/

Wedding Gown of the Day: Ayana

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 20:13:00 +0000

"Ayana"
by Therez Fleetwood

Wordless Wednesday: Joy & Innocence

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 17:44:00 +0000

Courtesy of Blue World Studios
Atlanta, GA

Look Beautiful in your Wedding Photographs

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 21:23:00 +0000

by Sarah Logan of Aesthetic Science Institute which offers many types of skin care classes.

Wedding pictures hold some of the happiest memories of a lifetime, so be sure you consider all the angles when preparing to be photographed on the big day.

Exfoliate and moisturize- Don’t forget that the most important step is good skincare for a clean, smooth base. Soft, supple skin will be the best canvas for any makeup to look great on.

Don’t go changing- Brides shouldn’t try new skincare products, or anything that may irritate skin during the wedding countdown. Don’t be tempted to get cosmetic or skin treatments too close to the date, especially if you haven’t experienced the procedure before.

Build from a solid foundation- Be sure that your foundation is the right color and formulation for your skin. Color correcting concealers, like lilac for any sallow areas, and peach/yellow for under eye circles are a much better choice than simply layering on more makeup.

Define eyes and brows- While its important to line and define eyes so they pop in photos, keep in mind that dark shadow will make eyes recede and look smaller. For big bright eyes, highlight the inner corners and brow bone with light pink or pale gold shadow or crayon. Also, make sure brows are properly framing the face- everyone looks better and younger with defined brows. Fill the arches with powder or a solid pigment and brush.

Skip the glitter- Radiance-enhancing or shimmery foundations make faces look too slick and shiny for photos, so if you must, keep the sheen only on cheekbones and the cupid’s bow for highlighting purposes. Always finish the t-zone with powder, and and blot any oiliness as needed. The older you are, the more important it is to avoid shimmery eye makeup, as it tends to bring attention to fine lines.

Consider your lighting- Do take the time to stop and think about if the event/ photos will be taking place indoors or out, and at what time of day. Indoor photos will be taken with flash, so it’s important to use powder to combat shine and to also be sure foundation is matched well. If outdoors, soften makeup a bit as it can easily look too heavy or harsh in sunlight

Photo courtesy of Anti-Bride

I Waited Until My Man Was Ready: Faith or Farce?

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 19:31:00 +0000

Whew! Nothing like a smidge of controversy to set off the weekend. Every now and then we have to take a little break from the "pretty" to look at issues that seem to strike a chord with readers. The Essence.com article called
Balancing Act: I Waited Until He Was Ready To Wed tells the story of an accomplished woman named Dawn who says she waited (and pleaded) with her man for 17 years to make her his wife - even after they moved in together, "meshed their finances", and had a child. Well, you can see by the comments that many people do not see a happy ending here. The discussion carries over to Twitter and Facebook with more than one woman saying she would tell Dawn's story to her daughter as an example of what NOT to do. Ouch!

But, what do you think? Was Dawn's situation a test of faith or a waste of time? Do you know any similar couples? If so, how are they doing?

New Release: I Still Do

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 18:23:00 +0000

Is anyone else still recovering from the holiday weekend? Regardless, we want to make sure that we keep you up to date on new releases regarding African-American brides and women in general. We recently received an email about a new coffee table book by talented photographer Kea Taylor. It's called, I Still Do - A Celebration of African-American Weddings and it's full of glorious African-American images from her wedding photography. What's really great is that Kea, like a lot of our friends in the wedding industry, share the goal of celebrating black love, marriage and families. But don't take our word for it, take a look at the promotional video below:

Read more about Kea Taylor on her website and check out her book on Amazon.

AAB Weekly Reader

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 13:01:00 +0000

The folks at Invitations by Ajalon have a very interesting outlook on upcoming Fall wedding invitations trends.

Entertaining this weekend? Yvonne&Yvettetiquette has some tips for hosts and guests.

Today season three of Get Married's TV show continues on WE tv with seven new episodes featuring real brides. Don't forget to check out the promo!

Also, learn more about wedding reception icebreakers over at Manolo For the Bride.

Reality show vixen Omarosa Manigault Stallworth is launching a new show this weekend to find love.

The Washington Post has unveiled a an online video series that profiles couples who are preparing to walk down the aisle. Be sure to take a look.

Thinking outside-of-the-box for the groom's cake? Get some ideas from this article on Delish.com The cake in the top left corner is from this feature.

Wordless Wednesday: The Boogie Down

africanamericanbrides@gmail.com (African-American Brides) — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 18:34:00 +0000

Courtesy of Funkytown Photography
Lauriann & Jermaine
Bronx, NY