tara allen bridal

Short and Flirty

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Fri, 14 May 2010 14:06:00 +0000

I love this gorgeous number from Monique Lhuillier. The Jules is part of the Spring 2011 Collection.

It's a short and flirty strapless mini in ivory and silver featuring an intricately beaded bodice and a full, textured mini skirt. For fun brides only!

YOU HAVE TO SEE THIS - The Future of Shopping

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Tue, 11 May 2010 14:16:00 +0000

A random discovery about the future of shopping from Cisco. Please watch the entire video, it's only about 50 seconds long.

Is this a blessing or a curse?

"Princess for a Day" translation "That will be a Million Dollars Please!"

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Fri, 07 May 2010 12:48:00 +0000

Interesting article from http://www.aisledash.com/:

Every bride wants to look and feel like a princess on her wedding day. And who better to help make that happen than an actual princess ... or in this case, a principessa? The Rome Cavalieri, the Waldorf Astoria Collection, a five-star deluxe hotel, is launching what they call their destination-wedding "Something Borrowed" program. Have your wedding ceremony and reception at the Rome Cavalieri and you can borrow jewelry designed by Italian princesses Lucia Odescalchi and Grazia Borghese -- whose pieces range from $1,350 to $135,200 in retails stores such as Barneys New York -- for no charge.

You'll work closely with the hotel and the princesses' studios to make your selection from their striking signature collection, constructed from luxurious (though, in some cases, unconventional) materials like mabè pearls, bronze, fossils, diamonds, wood and 18K gold. Their collections includes earrings, necklaces, bracelets, brooches and more. When you arrive in the Eternal City, you'll visit the studio of your choice for a viewing and to make any additional requests or changes. The baubles will then be yours for 48 hours, so you're sure to shine when you walk down the aisle.

The Rome Cavalieri, the Waldorf Astoria Collection, set in a lush 15-acre Mediterranean park overlooking the rooftops of Rome and St. Peter's Basilica, offers one of the city's most opulent wedding backdrops. Couples can choose from one of several stylish reception rooms, including the Salone dei Cavalieri, which recently underwent a $10 million renovation. Contact the hotel's events office via e-mail at events.rome@hilton.com or phone +39 06 3509 2000 for more information.

According to the hotel website, "for the bride and groom there is a private jet to Rome, the palatial Penthouse suite with panoramic roof terrace and "his and hers" monogrammed linens, and a horse-drawn carriage to one of Rome's famous churches".

All this for the measly sum of $1 MILLION DOLLARS!!!! As outrageous as it may seem The Rome Cavalieri is pretty spectacular.

One Dress from Two Birds

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Thu, 06 May 2010 14:17:00 +0000

Two Birds have cleverly designed one style of bridesmaid dress which can be worn 15 different ways, flattering basically any body type. The dress is offered in 18 colours and in four lengths' and is made of a luxury jersey. If you need some extra support there is a wonderful bandeau that can be purchased and worn for extra support. Just lovely...

Sarah Jessica Parker at the Met Gala

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Wed, 05 May 2010 16:11:00 +0000

Sarah Jessica Parker looking lovely at the 2010 Met Gala donning her own design, reminiscent of the 1970's, for Halston Heritage. Accessorizing with a suspiciously Carrie like floral fascinator (SATC 2 promo?) and on trend with lots of Fred Leighton vintage diamond bracelets and cuffs. I'm thinking this would be great inspiration for a more casual wedding. Light and breezy with a few stylish accessories.

Pantone 2010 Color of the Year - Turquoise

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 14:16:00 +0000

Drawing a blank for wedding palate inspiration? Pantone have declared Turquoise as their Color of the Year for 2010. Adding a splash of color by way of shoes or accessories could be a lovely way to infuse some fun into the day.

Inspiration boards provided by:
http://itsajaimething.com/index.php/inspiration-boards/
http://www.onewed.com/blog/savvy-scoop/2009/12/10/turquoise-black-and-white-wedding-inspired-pantones-2010-color-year

Vintage Treasures

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 14:33:00 +0000

I absolutely love The Carole Tanenbaum Vintage Collection which can be found at http://caroletanenbaum.com/index.php.

Carol is a purveyor of fine costume jewelry and has been adorning ladies like Sarah Jessica Parker, Michelle Obama, Natalie Portman to name just a few.

Her work is a collection of wonderful pieces she has uncovered over a 25 year period with items dating as far back as the Victorian period. Her fabulous costume jewelry allows us to pay homage to the past but also gives us the opportunity to recycle and be somewhat “green” (well that’s what I tell myself anyway!).

Not much to say but take a look.

Porsche 356 Speedster = Completely Delusional

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 14:41:00 +0000

I know nothing about cars EXCEPT that I love the Porsche 356 Speedster. I don't know if it's my delusions of grandeur but one day I'm sure I' will be picking up my groceries in one of these beauties. In the meantime, back to my delusions -

OK so, here is the scene:

* My betrothed and I (a ridiculously wealthy, handsome, philanthropist) have just run off to the South of France to elope.

(Cut to adorable centuries old limestone courthouse at sunset)

* After a short time we burst through the doors with laughter in our eyes and pep in our step. We stop, clasp hands, then stroll to our egg shell white convertible with caramel leather interior Porsche 356 Roadster.

(Cut to disgustingly gorgeous happy couple entering the Roadster)

* There's a rumble and off they go. Into the sunset in the direction of the first random vineyard to sample the local wares.

(End scene)

Well, it could happen!

Can't you just see a sassy summer bride arriving to the church in one of these. Just love it.

A little about the The Porsche 356:

This was the company's first production automobile. It was a lightweight and nimble handling rear-engine rear-wheel-drive 2 door sports car available in hardtop and convertible configurations. Design innovations continued during the years of manufacture contributing to its motor sports success and popularity. Production started in 1948 at Gmünd, Austria where approximately 50 cars were built. In 1950 the factory relocated to Zuffenhausen, Germany and general production of the 356 continued until April 1965, well after the replacement model 911 made its debut in autumn 1963. It is estimated approximately half of the total production of 76,000 356s still survive.

Running of the Bride - Boston style

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 18:10:00 +0000

Ever heard of the Running of the Bride? It's a little thing that happens twice a year in Boston and annually in many other cities. Department store, Filene’s Basement, buys up designer Bridal Gowns from all over the US and Europe and puts them on sale in one central place and brides from far and wide come to shop for a bargain. The Bride assembles a team to snatch and grab off the rack. Why you ask - to save hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars on a designer wedding dress. Prices range from $250 - $700.

So, my sister-in-law Ena decided this was a good thing and corralled a group of gals and off we went. We arrived at the Boston Convention Center in the very , very early frigid morning to wait. Even at that time there were hundreds of women in line before us. I thought it would be organized chaos but I was NOT ready for what was about to develop. When the clock struck 8am and the doors flew open I can only say that I was ill prepared for the frenzy of screaming adult women pushing me from behind into a sea of white frocks on racks. It was Crazy!

After gaining my composure off I went, grabbing at just about anything I could get my hands on. Whatever I could find, I took. Tensions were high but team Ena was on a mission. When I say we had a pile about 6 feet high of dress in every size and color I am not kidding. Now, this is where you need to know a little bit about my Ena. She is TINY, like a size 0/2 tiny. Needless to say most of the dresses were way too big. After literally hours of dress swappin we thought we found the one. It was pretty in a “oh, that’s nice” and “aren’t I saving lots of money” kind of way. As we were starting to wrap up someone found a pile of dresses we had missed and picked up a huge handful of satin. Nothing much to speak of UNTIL, she put it on. Gasp... Everyone got quite and still. Not just Team Ena but all the ladies close to us. Now THIS was the dress. It was perfection! I think every woman looking at Ena was spitting chips of envy. She looked phenomenal. We had our dress.

The moral of the story – a little effort goes a long way. Ena got her dress for 10% of the original price. You couldn’t have bought the fabric alone for what she paid for her dress.
So ladies, if you are up for it you should check out "Filene's Basement World-Famous Bridal Event”. You might just get the deal of a lifetime, Ena did. See for yourself.

It's Chanel Time!

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 18:37:00 +0000

To paraphrase Rachel Zoe, "I die".

For those brides who have loads and loads of dollars to spend on themselves I have a suggestion. One of my TO DIE FOR items is the Chanel J12 GMT White Ceramic Unisex Watch H0967. It is a 38mm automatic watch, white high-tech ceramic, bezel set with diamonds. It's kinda pricey at about $10,000 but it is an investment don’t you know. It will get you to the church on time!

Peacock in Plume

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 15:06:00 +0000

I love a splash of color in a wedding. So when I came across Emici Bridal I was giddy with delight. I can think of no better way to brighten up the traditional wedding dress than with this fantastic floral brooch. It could be attached to a sash, applied directly onto your dress or worn in your hair.

Marie, the designer behind Emici Bridal, created this gem from peacock feathers, Swarovski crystals, freshwater pearls and rhinestones. These beauties are perched on a bed of teal silk dupioni flower petals.

Visit Emici Bridal on Etsy to peruse all their floral beauties. You won't be dissapointed!

Hair Do's by Boston Magazine

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 11:33:00 +0000

I came across this article by Brittany Jasnoff in Boston Magazine Spring/Summer 2010 edition and I thought it would be very helpful for those brides still thinking of what to do with their hair. Simple helpful coiffure hints to flatter all shapes and sizes. Check out BM on stands now.

Jason Wu for For You

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 21:24:00 +0000

I think it is fair to say that many of us first heard of Jason Wu when Michelle Obama selected his gown for the Inaugural Presidential Ball.

Well, Jason is back! One of my most favorite ladies of style is Diane Kruger and she did it again. Diane was simply stunning in Jason Wu at the 2010 Sag Awards. Marigold wouldn't work for many of us minions but Diane worked it!

D.e.v.i.n.e.

I think this dress would be a knockout bridal gown.

Loving the sexy curves with a hint of old school Hollywood with at that runching around the bust line.

Picture source: Just Jared

What a Pretty Posy!

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 15:33:00 +0000

One of my favorite places to visit is Etsy.com. I get all kinds of inspired by others who are artistically inclined. For instance, I just adore this posy of handmade clay Stephanotis bouquet by St Judes Creation.

Simple, clean and loving handmade. What a perfect bridal accessory!

A Rose by another name

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:08:00 +0000

So pretty, Rose Byrne at the 2010 Golden Globes. Simple old school Hollywood finger waves and a broach hair accessory. I just love it!

Any one of our lovely combs would do just nicely for a bride looking for a similar glamorous style, visit http://www.tabridal.com/Bridal_Hair_Combs_s/93.htm

Source: www.hollywoodlife.com

"An Education" in simple and chic by Carey Mulligan

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 17:58:00 +0000

I have to say I'm loving Carey Mulligan. She looked beautiful at the 2010 Golden Globes where she chose to wear her gems in her hair. Her pixie haircut was adorned with a sparkly band. Simple and chic.

This style would be perfect for brides with shorter hairstyles or for those ladies who might be looking for something less traditional than a tiara and veil. A perfect example is our Olivia Headband below which is versatile enough to be worn on its own or with a veil.

Source: http://justjared.buzznet.com/photo-gallery/2409088/carey-mulligan-2010-golden-globes-red-carpet-01/

Maya Bridal Headband

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 18:33:00 +0000

Maya Bridal Headband,
originally uploaded by Tara Allen Bridal.

This is one of my headpieces which I think would be perfect for a casual beach wedding. Mother-of-pearl drops and a rhinestone fireball on a petite silver tone headband.

What do you think?

Vivid Pink Diamond crushes it!

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 02:17:00 +0000

I'm not a huge fan of colored diamonds. Especially pink ones....they make me think of J. Lo/Ben Affleck and Mariah Carrey/Nick Cannon and as much as I love celebs and a little cappuccino gossip I will pass on the pink diamond.

Wait up - Hold the press - News just in - December 2, 2009.

According to Christie's Hong Kong office The Vivid Pink a five-carat potentially flawless pink diamond has just sold at auction for $2.1M a carat - that is a whopping $10.8M for one diamond! They say this is by far the highest price per carat achieved for any diamond worldwide and is the most expensive jewel sold at auction in 2009.

On second thoughts, I think I could take a cue from Jenny from the Block.

What do you think about colored diamonds?

Source: http://www.artinfo.com/news/story/33356/vivid-pink-diamond-shatters-auction-record/

Snow you didn't!

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 20:06:00 +0000

Picture this. It's December 19th 2009 and it's your wedding day. You leap out of bed to start primping only to be faced with one of the largest snowstorms in Philadelphia's history, 23 inches.

So long outdoor wedding! Well not according to groom Matt Cardinal. He rallied his lovely bride, Blair Kahora, and her gal pals. On went the Uggs boots and Pashmina's while the Groomsmen shoveled and cleared the way. Of the

160 invited guests 110 made the day.

Now that is a commitment of love by friends and family!

When Blaire and Matt were planning I'm pretty sure she didn't think snow was going to be a feature accessory. Thankfully white goes with pretty much everything.

Congratulations Matt and Blaire.

Source: http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/weird/It-Was-a-Beautiful-Day-for-a-White-Wedding-80032822.html?yhp=1

'Man-gagement' anyone?

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:05:00 +0000

"If you like it then you shoulda put a ring on it" takes on new meaning. According to a recent poll on Brides.com 45% of women are open to purchasing their finance a "man-gagement ring" to claim their future hubbies. Not sure how I feel about this.

On the one hand, yes we fought for equality but, on the other hand I feel like we might be loosing some of the tradition and romance of becoming engaged.

I wonder who is more inclined to want this trend to last, the fiance who will wear the 'man-gagement' ring or Jewelers who are touting this as the next best thing? Like Scott Kay Bridal Jewelry, they have a selection for any forward thinking fiance who wants to symbolize the commitment before the big day.

Just because Jennifer Hudson bought her man a $15,000 engagement ring does that mean the rest of us should? Thoughts?

Image: Scott Kay Bridal Jewelry

Eco-friendly Wedding Dress

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 20:45:00 +0000

If you are a fan of Project Runway you will remember Leanne Marshall the winner of Season 5. Leanne created beautiful billowy dresses, tops and pants and now generally creates pieces which are one of a kind. I came across a beautiful bridal dress by Leanne on Etsy.com. It is short, flirty and totally eco-friendly and best of all not too expensive at $1,295.

The specs on the dress are below:

This short eco-friendly wedding dress is made entirely of green/sustainable materials and is made for a customizable dress to your measurements. The length comes down just below the knee and is a little longer in the back, but it can be shortened if desired.
The skirt and details on the top are made of a beautiful ivory hemp silk blend, and the structured foundation is made of an organic cotton and hemp with silk blend. It is even interfaced in organic cotton canvas. The foundation is very structured with boning and allows for support and the option of going bra-less.

For more info on Leanne's work see www.leannemarshall.com.

Fall for jewel tone bridesmaids' dresses

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:17:00 +0000

For bridesmaids' walking in the Fall season, fear not! Grab your bride by the hand and lead her into a jewel tone haven of fabulous dresses that can be worn long after the celebrations are over. Fabulous fuchsia, deep hunter green, rich red and cobalt blues. Inspiration is everywhere this season. Peek out your bedroom window. Nature provides a plethora of options when it comes to unearthing hues of all different colors.

Catherine Malandrino strapless fuchsia wool bustier dress

Badgley Mischka Platinum Label sea green Christine dress

Necessary Objects cobalt strapless sweetheart dress

La Petite S***** red asymmetric velvet dress

For the love of Gold

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 03:37:00 +0000

Apparently gold is making a comeback. Filtered into invitations, shoes, accessories and much more. Considering it's Fall, how appropriate! The right amount of gold can infuse just a touch of warmth and luxury. I'd say as long as the golden tones are not bright and brassy I can support a dash in the festivities.

Credits: martha stewart (4)

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Beautiful DIY Wedding for $4K - say it ain't so

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 13:40:00 +0000

For all of you happy couples who are just about to be, or have just become, newlyweds you have gotta check out the blog of Sherry and John Petersik - Young House Love. They are a young couple who covet everything DIY, especially when it comes to their home. Their blog details the many projects they have tackled since becoming a team. Upon their engagement they considered "the Wedding". So, being creative and handy they put on the gloves and held a personal backyard affair with 75 of their closest friends and family - on a budget of $4,000. Yes, you heard me right, $4K! Take a look at the event they pulled off. Truly inspiring. See how they managed to host a beautiful, personal celebration that is perfectly suited to these tough economic times.

Sherry and John have been kind enough to give a play by play of their budget breakdown.

Venue: Free (backyard)
Music: Free (family friend played ceremony music on guitar & we used an iPod for the reception)
Photography: Free (brother-in-law is a photographer)
Officiant: Free (cousin got certified online)
Food: $500
Wine & Drinks: $100
Cupcakes & S’mores: $125
Table & Chair Rentals: $350
Centerpieces: $70
Save The Dates/Invitations/Thank Yous (With Postage): $260
Favors: $75
Servingware: $250
Fabric For Tablecloths & Runners: $300
Lighting & Candles: $120
Flip Flops/Photo Clothesline/Welcome Sign: $75
Mosquito Sticks/Candles/Spray: $50
Bouquet: $20
Attire: $500
Photo Booth: $1200 (the one big splurge- and so worth it)

TOTAL: $3995

They even got to donate a bunch of the serving ware that they purchased from Ikea (it was cheaper than renting it) to charity afterward, which was a nice little tax write off.

I thoroughly recommend you visit their complete listing of details and photos for great tips at

http://www.younghouselove.com/wedding-album/

BOLEROS - they're back!

noreply@blogger.com (bridal adornments by Tara Allen Bridal) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 03:51:00 +0000

Every now and then I come across something that would never have crossed my mind. I stumbled upon Tiana Agapcheva, a Russian fashion designer, on Etsy.com. Tiana creates the most divine little boleros that would be perfect for today's bride. Probably best suited to a strapless gown with a simple silhouette as the cut of the bolero is superb with just the right amount on embellishment and ruffles. Check out the detail on the back of the neck! These boleros are a great alternative to a wrap for afternoon weddings. I also think they'd be great for a girls night with jeans and some killer heels!

Visit Tiana's store on Etsy.com, the Magical Laboratory of Fashion at

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7188052