Marc Jacobs Daisy:  Fun, bright, and whimsical! And that’s just the bottle! But the name Daisy isn’t for nothing! The sweet and youthful flower creates a bold yet innocent undertone to this floral masterpiece. This is perfect for the natural bride, or gal who prefers an outdoor setting. Daytime affairs are also perfect pairs to this fragrance. We have no idea why, but this bottle puts us in a super fun mood and is only to be worn by the most cheerful of brides!

Miss Dior Cheri:  As if the delightful ads featuring the gorgeous Natalie Portman aren’t enough to make you sprint out to buy a bottle, then possibly the gorgeous bottle itself is! With a sweet bow tie topping adorned on each one, this is definitely a special occasion scent. And what girl doesn’t want to wear a little Dior for their big day? This one is hard to beat and with its notes of sweet vanilla and classic, soft yet playful hints, you simply cannot go wrong.

Chanel No.5 : Ahh, the quintessential fragrance. Some believe that this one scent is a must-have beauty buy for the ages. Women of all decades swear by it and it translates perfectly between a big night out to a walk down the aisle. Brides take note: When in doubt, wear Chanel. period.

Vera Wang: Classic, crisp, clean and made just for you by the Queen of Weddings. Ms. Wang is now known for her taste in fragrance with her namesake spritz and we must agree that she has us smitten. We think the bottle would pair perfectly with a Vera gown, making it a stellar photo-op.

First, let’s consider the date. May is bustling with signs of summer, but also has a safe bet for temps staying comfortable for your guests. And while you always run the risk of rainy weather with a tent, we think an indoor venue with a vast veranda or terrace is perfect for echoing the same sentiment as Derby watching.  The event lends itself to plenty of other built-in musts like using silver plated mint julep cups for floral arrangements, choosing equestrian accents like horse figurines or even the quintessential sign of good luck, the Horseshoe for your escort cards. We also love the subtle homages to southern tradition that might be perfect for a preppy couple even if they aren’t from the South.

There’s a huge trend of turning to Southern traditions for weddings. For one, they really embrace the gala idea of several days of wedding festivities.  You can follow suit by adding a BBQ themed rehearsal dinner and opting for Southern style sides on your dinner menu as well. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love cornbread, mac n’ cheese and pecan pie? And no Southern Wedding would be complete without a grand red velvet cake!

One of our favorite blogs, Southern Weddings Magazine, is stocked with coverage of real weddings that embrace all of these terrific ideas. And show that is it completely possibly to try to theme out for an engagement party or bridal shower.  Some of our favorites we’ve seen so far? A bow tie bar for the guys and cigar rollers! Or maybe your guy would like a Kentucky bourbon bar for tasting.  We think the ideas are endless! And we are sure to see more of this trend in the year ahead!

Be Well Rested  The week before your wedding can be busy and full of last minute details to take care of, but sleep is a very  important factor in looking your best in wedding photographs. Lack of sleep can show up as bags under your eyes, tired posture and dull skin. While it’s true that photographers can fix some of these problems in Photoshop, it is best to come to your wedding day with your best face forward…literally! Sleep will not only help you look good, but also feel great. Setting a sleep schedule the week before your wedding and sticking to it will ensure you are well rested on your big day.

Hire a Professional Hair and Makeup Person  For some this may feel like an unnecessary splurge, but hiring professionals can make a world of difference in the final photos. Hair and makeup people know the products to use that will last all day and show up the best in all lighting situations. If you want to look and feel like a celebrity on your wedding day, this is an investment worth taking.

Tim Whaley & Associates

Hire a Photographer That Makes You Feel Comfortable  Having a professional that you are comfortable with behind the camera may be the most important factor. When booking a photographer, you should meet with them at least once and see how the chemistry is between you. Asking for a reference or two may be a good idea as well so you can speak with people that have worked with the photographer on their wedding day. The photographer will be with you the most during your day, so this is a person you want to feel good around and someone that can bring the best out of you.

Carissa Woo Photography

Think Happy Thoughts and Be Yourself  Stay focused on what the day is all about and be in the moment. If you are authentic and allow those feelings of bliss, happiness and joy to permeate your being, that will show up on your photographs. And when you look back at these images years later, you will remember exactly how you felt on your special day.

Of course every bride would like to look her best on her wedding day, and as summer is just around the corner the bride and bridal part aren’t the only ones that will need a little push to hit the gym and get a bit sweaty. Who doesn’t want the Jessica Biel booty, or Halle Berry’s tight abs, or how about Kate Hudson’s sexy back?

This infographic is loaded with targeted exercises the Hollywood Stars use and swear by. Have a look and then print it out and check off the days as you go! To download and print this wonderful guide visit SimplyBridal’s blog, then just click “download” and print. Want that beach body for the summer? Now get motivated!!

DIY Photo Chandelier. Though this pin wasn’t originally intended to be a wedding idea, (it came from HGTV’s blog), we couldn’t help but swoon when we saw it.  We instantly started thinking of how you could work this into your big day, and we love the idea of having personalized chandeliers hanging throughout your reception space.  Include pictures of you and your partner, friends, and family.  This could also be a fun way to designate seating, having guests locate their photo on a DIY chandelier above their table!  We love to see couples personalize their special day, and this DIY wedding project is certainly a great way to do just that.

Floral Crown.  The sun continues to make small appearances in Chicago, which has most Windy City residents itching for spring.  And nothing says spring quite like flowers.  So it’s no surprise that this floral crown caught our attention, making a bold statement.  The majority of the flowers are fairly over sized for a headpiece, so we like the unexpected proportions of this crown.  We also love the small pieces of greenery mixed in, as well as the off-centered placement of the piece.  This is a twist on the more common and dainty floral crown, and for the bride wanting to make a statement, we say go for it!

Amber Weimer Photography

The Undergarments are Just as Important as the Dress

Most brides spend a lot of time and money on the perfect gown, but what they wear under the dress is just as important. The proper undergarments will make the dress fit better and enhance your figure. Many brides choose not to wear a bra with their gown because they want to comfortable, but a great bra (possibly one with a corset included) can really improve your figure. Ask a consultant at a bra store or dress store for suggestions.

You Can’t Go Wrong with a Corset

Dresses with a corset top are a great way to show off a tiny waist because you can tighten or loosen as needed. This is also a great option for brides who frequently gain and loss weight because you don’t have to worry about their dress not fitting if they wake up feeling a little bloated. Unlike a dress that zips up, a lace up corset can be adjusted to fit your body without alterations.

Rock a Fit and Flare

One of the most popular silhouettes is the fit and flare.  This shape, which is a mix between an A-line and a mermaid style, softly drops down over the hips and gradually begins to open at mid-thigh. It is very flattering on most body types.

Accentuate Your Waistline

There is a great fashion secret to creating a gorgeous waistline: belts. This is also true for wedding day fashions. By adding a beaded belt or satin sash to your dress, you can easily emphasis your waistline.  Most dress stores have various belts and sashes that can be sewn on to your dress.

Heels are a Girl’s Best Friend

Heels are great because they elongate your legs, lift your butt, and make you feel more confident. You don’t have to wear a five inch heel to enjoy the benefits of these pretty shoes. Even a shoe with a quarter inch heel will improve your posture and make you look slimmer.

Spend the Money on Great Alterations

We know wedding dresses are expensive, but don’t try to save money by skipping the alterations. Having an expert seamstress make sure your dress fits perfectly is worth every penny. A dress that is too tight or too small will not be as flattering.

Besides gorgeous lace draped wedding gowns, there are many other wedding details where lace can be used. Start with the invitations. Using a lace pattern printed paper or tying actual lace around the invites.

If you opt for another fabric for you wedding dress, there are many accessories like jewelry, gloves, headpieces and shoes that have lace detailing to add this trend to your day. Even the reception can have a lace makeover by using lace tablecloths or wrapping lace around vases of flowers or using it as a draping fabric throughout the reception area. Whether you want a big or small statement with lace, there are many ways to use this lovely fabric, and it’s sure to add a romantic softness.

When skimming the pages of the fabulous coffee table book, Vogue Weddings, the editors have a perfectly curated collection of modern and vintage weddings that are both iconic and still providing inspiration for today’s brides. It takes a closer look at the thoughts behind a dress, and the designers that work hand in hand with some of these very lucky brides. Perhaps the most mimicked look of all time is Grace Kelly. A timeless icon of fashion in her own right, the long sleeves with intricate lace detail is one of the most remembered wedding looks of all time. Modern fashion muse, Nicole Richie, modeled her custom Marchesa gown after the famous frock and added a tulle bottom to add a ball gown effect in effort to bring her own style to it.

Going from one royal wedding to another, no one opitimizes grace and elegance more than Kate Middleton who chose British house Alexander McQueen when it came time to design her modest yet stunningly beautiful long sleeve gown.  Paired with a lower cut neck line, the look was anything but conservative and showed that covered arms can be the ultimate in flattering and not frumpy.  It also gives brides another chance to show stellar detailing, which for most is a delicate Italian lace sleeve. (Nicole Richie even had her new married name embroidered onto one sleeve! Very, cool.)

Let’s not forget the options are endless when it comes to opting for a sleeve. You can take it all the way or do as the very modern, yet classic, Ivanka Trump did and go with a ¾ sleeve, also in a lace.  The look is classic and calls into play, the unmatched attention to detail provided by her dress designer, Vera Wang.  It also adds a refreshing new spin in a sea of strapless dresses.

So when looking for something new this wedding season, perhaps expect to take a nod from the old. And don’t forget for all of you future brides out there, sleeves aren’t just for the Fall or Winter bride anymore, they are a statement for all seasons!

Your Pet’s Temperament:  Is your pet easily excitable in large groups? Or have they mastered sitting on command? A wedding will be a new experience for them so be sure they will be able to behave and not make a scene on the big day. Even though you may want your pet there, they may feel more comfortable at home.

Check With Your Venue:  It’s important to make sure pets are allowed at your wedding venue before you start planning their grand entrance. If having your pet be apart of your day is a must-have, you may need to consider pet friendly places only when you are in the planning stages and picking a venue. This is definitely an area where you must plan ahead.

Check With Your Guests:  A lot of people have allergic reactions to certain types of pets, so informing your guest beforehand that your pet will be apart of the wedding will help those guest to take the necessary precautions.

Preparing Your Pet:  If all is a go with Mr. Whiskers, then it is essential to prepare him for the day. If you are having him wear some type of clothing, or plan on strapping a ring pillow on his back and walk down the aisle, it’s best to start practicing weeks before the wedding day. If possible,  take him to the venue and allow him to get use to the new space. Allow your pet enough time to get use to his role and reward him with treats for being well behaved.

Joe Mikos Photographers

Hire a Pet Handler:  This can be someone that you know or a professional, but having someone at the wedding that is responsible for your pet is vital. You will not have the time or  energy to worry about your pet during the rest of your wedding commotion, so having a person assigned to your pet will make the day go much smoother.  Make sure the pet handler has everything they will need to properly care for your animal on the day, including a home to take them to when the celebrations are over.

We aren’t knocking the classic choices of jewelry and timepieces as gifts. We will take diamond studs any day! And if your budget allows, we love the idea of having a fabulous watch or gem for the rest of your life that reminds you of the best day of your life.  Our only suggestion is that watches must be engraved with a special saying, quote or date and all ladies jewelry should be accompanied by a heart felt note or engraving (perfect for a locket or cocktail ring.)  But also consider other options…

In a recent wedding post on Stylemepretty,  one gorgeous bride presented her man with a vintage cigar box chalk full of his favorite aged whiskey, a copy of the classic The Old Man and The Sea, a beautiful tie and other gentleman’s essentials. She catered the entire box to a theme that she felt truly embodied her new husband and his tastes.  Clearly, she thought long and hard about the elements which made it all the more special.  Here are a few other favorite ideas…

We know of one bride who chose a luxury vintage bottle of wine and placed it in a cedar wine box that will be perfectly aged on their 10^th wedding anniversary.  She also slipped a love letter of sorts into the box that will be read when they are ready to drink the wine to remind them of how far they have come. Of course the two are wine lovers, but more importantly, die-hard romantics. We love the sentiment that the wine represents but we love the idea of the ritual that awaits them on their anniversary.

Of course grand gestures are always welcome. Keys to a new car or house  are things we only read about, but whatever the budget, let your heart do the talking and choose a gift with more sentimental value than dollar signs. We love that!

Peonies + Sunny Yellow Bouquet.  The Chicago temperatures have been teetering on the edge of spring lately, and the increased rays have left us wanting all things bright and cheery.  This wedding bouquet of white peonies is perfectly accented with pops of yellow floral, making the perfect statement for spring.  And the not-so-put-together bunch makes the look complete, finding a great balance between organic and polished, the perfect combination for spring.

Glass Ring Box.  Ring bearers tend to bring up images of small toddlers in suits, teetering down the aisle with a soft satin pillow, with three rings tucked in the center.  As much as we love that classic scene, we also love this more modern take on a transporting rings down the aisle.  The glass and metal combination keeps the box from looking too sweet, and the moss adds just the right amount of whimsy and nature.  Pretty rings and a pretty box, sounds like a winning combo to us!

docuvitae

We’re always on the look out for new and exciting desserts and alternative wedding cakes and while we have touched on some of those new trends, we are in awe of an up and coming idea that has us literally salivating and running for Fannie May. That’s right, artisan chocolates are all the rage and we can’t think of a fancier occasion than a wedding to bust out the finest chocolates around for you and your sweetie (and guests, of course!)

Not to be confused with candy bars (a la the super chic Amy Atlas), artisan chocolates can be individually served on trays after dinner or placed on the reception tables with small signage designating each flavor. What’s more, they can even be perfectly paired with a wine or after dinner cordial to make their intense flavor even more delectable. Here’s where things can get extra creative; like pairing a dark chocolate orange peel with a simple splash of Grand Marnier or a Bailey’s Irish cream with an espresso bean truffle-this need trend takes a deeper look into the likes of foodies and their guests on the most important day of their lives.

Here in Chicago, we turned to Katherine Anne Confections in Logan Square and her inventive flavors and concepts for further inspiration. Brides have long been using her services for gift bags and welcome treats and now are following this new trend all the way to lavish trays of passed chocolates and towering displays of what else, CHOCOLATES! The confectioner is even holding special classes in March where students can create their own truffle flavors and leave with bags full of goodies.  All we can say is: sign us up!

We Heart Photography

Messy Ponytail.  One of our favorite boards to pin to is our “Bride, Hair” board.  It might seem silly, but we never get tired of seeing all the creative styles brides come up with for their big day.  We see lots of loose waves and lots of updos, but it can often be hard to find something in between the two.  This pin is the perfect combination between the two styles, making a low ponytail slightly more formal with loose waves and haphazard pinning.  The overall look is relaxed, happy, and carefree, perfect for that oh so special day!

Wedding Day Quilt.  This next pin has to be one of our favorite wedding ideas to date.  It’s personal, intimate, and memory making, the perfect combination in wedding world.  The bride and groom requested that their guests respond to their invitation with a piece of fabric, any fabric.  The swatches were then incorporated and sewn into a beautiful and one of a kind quilt for the couple to have for the rest of their lives.  What better way to remember your wedding day than to wrap yourself in it on a daily basis?

Gia Canali Photography