Wedding Ideas That Are Too Good to Be True

Planning a wedding is a big undertaking, both in terms of time and money. It is only natural that brides want ways to cut down their budgets and the amount of work that goes into their weddings. However, not every offer of help or “unbeatable deal” is as good as it first appears. These are some of the wedding ideas that are simply too good to be true.

Volunteer Amateur Services: People love weddings, and many brides are fortunate enough to have well-meaning loved ones who really want to help them with their wedding. Unfortunately, in many of those instances there is an abundance of good intentions, but a lack of the skill to perform the task at a professional level. This is the uncle who offers to take all of your wedding photos to save you money. It could be your sister who thinks she can make your bridal hair jewelry, even though she has no experience making bridal hair jewelry. That “great” offer can end up with a very disappointed bride and hard feelings all around.

Knock-off Wedding Gowns: Many a bride has fallen in love with a wedding gown that she loves, but cannot afford. There are plenty of websites online that offer reproductions of designer gowns at rock bottom prices. The only problem is that the knock-offs never look anywhere near as good as the originals. The fabric, craftsmanship, embellishments, and fit are usually very poor quality from the designer imitation sites, and it is a rare bride who is pleased in the end. The wedding gown is one case where you definitely get what you pay for.

Electronic Wedding Invitation Responses: It sounds great at first: you will save on the cost of the response cards, the computer will tally up the number of guests who have accepted or declined, and your guests will all respond on time because it is so easy for them. In reality, however, there are several drawbacks to the online R.s.v.p. system.  Some of your older guests simply will not be comfortable with this form of reply. Also, there is no guarantee that you will get a higher rate of replies using this system; if you have ever received an evite to a big party, you will have seen that plenty of people do not bother to reply. If you have your heart set on an electronic response system on your wedding website, make it one of several options, not the only way to R.s.v.p.

Hairstyles for Winter Weddings

The ultimate in bridal chic this year is a smooth low updo gathered slightly to one side. Have your stylist make it very polished with a serum or pomade to combat the dry flyaway hair that plagues most of us during the winter months. A low side part will add to the style of this elegant bridal hairdo. The perfect finishing touch is a fabulous little cage veil with a feathered accent. Pair with crystal bridal jewelry such as dazzling chandelier earrings, and wear with a slinky silk wedding gown.

Braids are back in style for brides. A low braided bun is a very romantic hairdo for a winter bride. It is a nice variation on the smooth low sideswept updo. Because the wrapping of the braids will add a nice texture, keep the front of the hair simple and position the bun in the center, not asymmetrically. For bridal hair jewelry, either tuck a jeweled comb into one side of the braided bun, or decorate with a scattering of sparkling hairpins. This would be a beautiful hairstyle to complement a romantic lace bridal gown.

The classic French twist is also making a comeback, as brides return to more elegant hairstyles after several years of messy ‘dos. One of the great things about a French twist is that it does not require long hair like many other updos. Medium length hair works just as well for this sophisticated style, as long as it is not too layered. Since your hair will be entirely off your shoulders, take the opportunity to showcase some really spectacular bridal jewelry, like long crystal drop earrings or a multi-strand pearl necklace. Tuck hairpins or a small spray of white feathers into the side of the twist to finish it perfectly.

Brides who wish to wear their hair down this winter should opt for a very smooth hairstyle. Large soft waves with a shiny finish are ideal. A statement making jeweled headband is the ideal accessory for this hairdo. If you plan to wear a veil, consider a double headband because you can anchor the veil’s comb between the two bands for more security. This youthful and radiant wedding hairstyle is lovely with a satin or taffeta ballgown or a more simple A-line gown with a touch of beading. The effect will be timeless and elegant – definitely a winning winter wedding hairstyle!

The Latest Wedding Hair Trends

The most recent bridal shows definitely presented a different approach to bridal hairstyles than have been prevalent over the last few years. The messy, tousled look is out, replaced by a much more polished and classic approach to styling hair. Personally, I am all for it, as the current hairdos are much more glamorous and pulled together than their beach-messy counterparts. With one of these chic new hairstyles, you will look every bit the gorgeous woman ready to get married, and the look will be just as appealing in your photos twenty years from now as it is today.

The polished chignon is the ultimate new bridal hairstyle. Classic, ladylike, and sophisticated, it will complement any wedding gown. The ideal way to do it is with a little bit of height on the top and the crown (very subtle and even, so you don’t look like you are wearing a Bump-it!). This softens the look and keeps it from becoming severe. A single large hair ornament is the perfect finishing detail for a chignon. Tuck a fresh gardenia into the side of it, or add some drama with a spray of feathers. Gorgeous!

A variation on the chignon is the intricate bun. The hair is sectioned before being formed into a large low bun shape. The sections can be braided or smooth, depending on how much hair you have. It is a very pretty style, as polished as a chignon, but a bit more youthful. The intricate bun would be wonderful for a youngish bride. Sparkly bridal hair jewelry tucked along one side of the bun is the freshest accessory. Either use a crystal bedecked comb or a cluster of crystal hairpins to complete the look to perfection.

Romantic styles are always lovely for brides. Medium length wavy hair looks fantastic when pinned back into a faux-bob style which brings to mind the Jazz Age. The hair is loosely gathered in the front, leaving enough draping to resemble the effect of a bob, then the rest is pulled back and pinned at the back of the head. It is a neat combination of a hairdo which is pulled back, yet has a fair amount of hair showing in the front. Try it with one of the 1920s inspired wedding gowns with beaded chiffon to look like the modern version of a glamorous flapper!

Wedding Hair Advice

Every bride wants to look perfect right down to the last detail. One of the most important things to consider is the wedding hair. Getting fabulous hair on your wedding day starts long before the morning of the event, however. Learn how to get the perfect look with this helpful wedding hair advice.

There is an old custom that says when a woman becomes engaged she should begin growing out her hair. You know what? This is actually still great advice. The idea is that longer hair will allow you the most versatility for wedding hairstyles. Some of the popular braided buns and chic chignons require a fair amount of hair to work, so having long hair can prove to be an asset. Simple haircuts without a lot of layering are the easiest to put up.

Upon becoming engaged, an initial consultation with a great hairstylist is a really smart idea.  In the beginning, you should discuss your long range plans for your wedding hair. Early in the game is the best time to experiment with a new haircolor or to try out highlights for the first time. If your hair is usually permed or relaxed, discuss with your stylist deep conditioning options to keep it in tip-top shape as the wedding draws closer. No one wants to have frizzy or fried hair in their wedding pictures, after all!

As soon as you have selected your wedding gown, it is time to begin shopping for your bridal hair jewelry. The type of headpiece which you choose will have a major impact on the hairstyles which will work the best. If you have selected a set of hairpins, for instance, an updo will be a necessity to anchor them properly. You will want to bring your bridal hair jewelry to your wedding hair trials so that your stylist can plan around it.

A few final words of wedding hair advice…never make any drastic changes in the final months before your wedding. This is not the time to see how that cute little pixie crop suits you if you have always worn your hair long, nor is your wedding the best time to experiment with bold artificial haircolors. The best wedding hair looks natural, healthy, and timeless.

Gorgeous Wedding Hairstyles for Long Hair

If you have long hair, you are in luck! There are numerous great looking ways in which to wear your hair for your wedding day. To help you narrow down the options, check out these gorgeous wedding hairstyles for long hair.

The key with long hair is to select a style which will keep your tresses under control all day long. You also want to take your veil and bridal hair jewelry into consideration when meeting with your stylist for a hair trial. By pulling back at least the front of your hair, you will give your veil a secure place to anchor so that it does not simply slide down the back of your head as you glide down the aisle. The more elaborate your hairdo, the more options you will have for bridal hair jewelry, as you will be able to fasten any type of comb, hairpin, or headband somewhere into the hairstyle and know that it will not move around.

One of the top trends in wedding hair right now is asymmetry. Low twists are among the most fabulous asymmetrical wedding hairstyles for long hair this year. Have your hairstylist gather all of your hair near the nape of your neck. Let the pulled back part be smooth and tidy, which allows you to tease the twist part without getting that overall messy appearance. The gathered section of hair at the nape of the neck can either be arranged into a loose twisted bun or a more polished smooth spiral.

Soft curls can be created to make a romantic wedding hairstyles with long hair. Loosely pinned curls and waves are soft and feminine for an “undone” updo. Or pull back the front of your hair, and allow cascades of soft curls to flow down over your shoulders. One caution: this style can quickly turn into a frizzy mass on a humid day, so it is a bridal hairdo best reserved for indoor or cool weather weddings. The best bridal hairstyles complement the style of the gown, the texture of your hair, and the shape of your face. Work with your favorite hairstylist to design the hairdo which will make you feel absolutely beautiful and chic on your wedding day.

2010 Wedding Trend: Bridal Accessories with Color

The top bridal designers have just shown their latest collections in New York for 2010 brides. When it comes to accessories, one clear trend has emerged: color. Bridal accessories with color will be all the rage for 2010 weddings. Here are some ideas on how to capture this great trend for your own special day.

There are some wonderful ways in which bridal jewelry can be handcrafted with colorful accents while still maintaining that special character that makes it perfect for a wedding. One idea is to choose a handcrafted bridal jewelry set which is created from clear or AB crystals. Add a dash of color by having the designer switch out a few of the clear crystals for ones in your wedding color. This is a great idea, as you can use as much or as little color as you like. Keep the effect subtle with a pastel crystal (pink is especially popular) or go bold and use a stronger color like red.

Another idea for a bridal accessory with color is your wedding hair jewelry. Headbands have been very hot for brides the last few seasons, and they lend themselves to customization. A simple fabric headband can be embroidered with a lovely floral or vine motif in your favorite color. For a bit more pizazz, choose a fabric headpiece and have it beaded with glittering crystals or feminine pearls in a soft rosy color or a rich neutral like bronze. A fantastic alternative is a non-fabric headband made from a wire frame which is adorned with crystals and pearls. A combination of white pearls with colored and clear crystals is modern and fresh. This looks especially stunning when it is a double headband.

When you are thinking about wedding accessories, of course your shoes will be important. Even the most traditional bride can have fun with a pair of baby blue silk sandals peeking out from her conservative white wedding gown. Colorful shoes are also a fabulous accent for the ballerina length and hi-low hemlines that will be hot for 2010. Your accessories are a fantastic place to express your individuality and style, so have fun adding colorful accents that will make your bridal ensemble one-of-a-kind.

Romantic Wedding Hair

A romantic hairstyle should always look soft and touchable (even if it is actually lacquered with hairspray). The first step towards achieving this effect is to evaluate your haircolor. It should look pretty and natural, never harsh or artificial. The most likely stumbling blocks are shades of blond that are too light, yellow, or brassy, or burgundy red haircolors never found in nature. Now it may take a number of hours in the salon to end up with your ideal “natural” look, but it should look as though you were just lucky enough to be born with such a pretty haircolor full of natural highlights.

When I envision romantic hair, the first image that comes to mind is the long flowing curls of a pre-Raphaelite beauty. The women in the pre-Raphaelite paintings embodied an innocent sensuality that is a lovely look for a bride. They wore their hair long and loose in soft waves or curls, which is a great hairstyle for a bride with long enough hair. Pull back little twists on each side of your head. This will get the hair out of your face, and will give you a place to anchor your veil and bridal hair jewelry. Keep your accessories simple; a few pearl hairpins or a dainty wreath look lovely with this hairdo.

Another romantic wedding hairstyle is a soft chignon or a loose bun. These styles look even more romantic if the hair is curled first and then loosely secured. It should look as though you could release a bobby pin and your whole beautiful mane would cascade down your shoulders. (Remember that this is only the look that you are going for; it may take dozens of bobby pins to actually pull it off.) A few soft and wispy tendrils can be left loose around the hairline and the nape of the neck, as long as it looks natural. Avoid at all costs the contrived spiral curled tendrils that will make you look like you are headed to the junior prom.

Less often seen, but no less pretty, is a well-executed braid. Once again, this will look the most romantic if the hair is made wavy before the braid is woven (kudos to you if your hair is naturally wavy). The braid should not be pulled too tightly or look too perfect. The most modern take on a braided wedding hairstyle is to have a few tiny braids on each side of the head that are then woven into the main braid. For your bridal hair jewelry, consider weaving a small strand of crystals into the braid to catch the light. It is a look that is both timeless and fresh, making it an ideal wedding hairstyle.

Fabulous Headpieces for Short Hair

When you are a short haired bride, you may wonder if you are going to be able to wear a special headpiece on your wedding day. While your options may be fewer than if your hair was long, there are actually some truly gorgeous adornments for short hair. These are some suggestions on the most fabulous headpieces for short haired brides.

Veils are one of the loveliest accessories for a bride, but they can be challenging to affix to short hair. Any bride who has tried to secure a long veil in her short hair has probably experienced firsthand how the veil simply slides down the back of her head. A wonderful alternative to a long veil is a short cage veil made with a wide netting. It is a very chic look with a retro flair to it. One of the prettiest ways to attach a cage veil is with a little barrette on the top of the head. Look for one that is decorative, such as a bow with a piece crystal or rhinestone bridal hair jewelry on it. This elegant style looks especially nice with a smooth and sleek hairstyle.

Sometimes when you are working with less hair, you might want to consider creative options for your bridal hair jewelry. If you adore the look of a sparkly crystal clip or barrette, but it slips out of your hair, try anchoring it in the front of your hair at the part. This is a very pretty way to bring the attention to your beautiful face, right where it belongs.

One style that is a guaranteed success for a short haired bride is a headband. Headbands are one of the hottest trends in bridal accessories this season, so you will find yourself with many fantastic pieces from which to choose. Soft fabric headbands are especially big, and if your hair is at least as long as a bob, this can be a beautiful finishing touch for you. Look for a wide silk headband that can be tied around your hair with soft tails flowing down the back, slightly to one side. You can keep it very simple, or add an embellishment like a crystal or pearl brooch for even more style and a unique flair.  Embrace the modern and chic look of short hair and the fabulous hair jewelry that will help you to shine on your wedding day.