Finding Your Dress at a Sample Sale

1. We do suggest that brides have an idea of the style and fit they are looking for in their wedding gown. Bringing an open mind to a sample sale is important since the selection will be a surprise. However, knowing the style and feel you are going for will help the process of elimination.

2. The tricky part with a sample sale is that the store is 10 times busier than a regular day. We try our very best to tend to everyone on a one-to-level but it’s not always possible. If you have a question, we won’t be far but please remember that it is not going to flow like a typical bridal appointment.

3. Be very picky about who you bring with you to the sale. Your opinion matters most. Bringing more than one person can cloud your thoughts and make everything seem more confusing.

4. Only buy a dress if it can realistically be altered to your size. Our seamstress can make amazing things happen so be sure to ask us about your options before deciding on a dress

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Bride & Groom Must Have Photos

Wedding season is in full swing! Lots of Lovebird brides are tying the knot throughout this Spring and Summer 2014 as we patiently wait to gush over the stunning pictures they send us!

Capturing your special moments on your big day engraves it in time and those photos will forever be admired as the beginning of the rest of your life. All this to say that they better be good! Here’s 7 of our favorite shots we think you need to have in your “wedding day” photo album.

1. Take a photo following the ceremony once everyone has left for the cocktail hour. Make sure to capture the gorgeous surroundings and an intimate moment after the ceremony.

2. A sunset photo makes it all look whimsical and romantic. Capturing a moment alone after dinner will allow you to take it all in during one of natures most beautiful phenomenons.

 

 

3. The inevitable cake face. Its fun and candid so make sure to capture the sweetness of the moment.

4. It’s a given to take a photo of the bride and groom as well as the parents during the ceremony. However, the one shot you might not expect to take is one of your bridesmaids while you walk down the aisle. We all have that one friend or two who break out the waterworks just at the thought of you getting married. It’s sweet, candid and a moment you will never forget.

5. Having fun with your train! Birds eye view of you train is fun – especially when you can incorporate your groom!

6. A rainy wedding day can be just as beautiful as a sunny one. Come prepared with a clear umbrella to capture this stunning shot.

7. Reverse shot of the first kiss. You catch everyone’s reaction and you get a nice photo of your venue from your perspective! One to consider, for sure!

We’d love to see your photos inspired by this blog! Good luck and happy planning!

Spring into weddings

Now that Spring is upon us (finally), it’s easy to get mesmerized by all the gorgeous blooming flowers, the smell of warmth in the air and the ever captivating sense of a new beginning. In the wedding world, it also means the start of the most popular and busy time of the year for brides around the world! After a winter filled with festivities such as Christmas, New Years Eve, Valentines day and in some cases, birthdays and anniversaries, we suspect many of our readers are probably newly engaged and ready to start planning away! If you’re feeling inspired by Spring and want to get hitched this time next year, here are a few tips to planning the perfect Spring wedding.

Be strategic when picking a date

A good Canadian girl knows that winters in Canada are unpredictable. We certainly got a taste of that this year. Heck, if we got another snow storm today, April 16th, we wouldn’t be phased by it. I’m sure you can see where I’m going with this. Make sure to pick a date that you are confident will avoid any unwanted surprises. Dates in April tend to be a bit risky so planning for a wedding at least mid-May is playing it safe. End of May is ideal for a Spring wedding because you’re creeping on Summer and can almost guarantee that the weather will be warm, the flowers will be out and the rain will be minimal.

Trends to be aware of

Pastels are the biggest trend for the Spring. Going with a softer palette will surely tie in nicely with your Spring wedding vision. Go on Pinterest and find inspiration based on light blues, blush or lavender. Those are sure to be winners for a May wedding. If you always dreamed of having a dark red or black bridesmaid dress or dark accents for that matter, you can always lighten the mood with fresh, light flowers. Better yet, bringing your wedding plans outdoors will add an airy feel to your special day without altering your vision too much. Rumor has it that gold will be a huge trend next year – it’s an easy element to incorporate!

Spring hic-ups that may surprise you

The first thing that comes to mind with Spring weddings that no one really thinks about is the soft ground. Sure it can be gorgeous and warm outside, but the grass might not be as stable as you would like. If you’re walking outside at some point on your wedding day, be sure to watch where you’re going – you don’t want a big mud stain on your train. If you are having an outdoor wedding, be sure to ensure that the ground on which your guest will be walking is safe. Adding a wooden dance floor is a must along with stones for your bridesmaids to stand on during the ceremony. Little things like that will help you guest enjoy their day with you.

Another problem that might arise in Spring is the unsuspecting rainfall. April Showers bring May Flowers, we know. But if April brought snow, May might have more rain than expected. Plan for a plan B with an outdoor wedding. A tented area is key to success, really. Usually, outdoor venues have an indoor alternative in case of bad weather so be sure to discuss options before booking.

Vendors aren’t busy in Spring… right?

Wrong! Many people believe that vendors book up really fast for Summer weddings but Spring, there’s still plenty of time! It is always better to book way in advance to avoid disappointment. Spring weddings are becoming just as popular as Summer weddings! Better be safe than sorry!

Send invites a little earlier than usual

Save the dates are crucial for Spring/Summer weddings. Most people trek through the winter just dreaming of nicer weather. Nicer weather usually means trips! People are feeling free and happy this time of year. They are compelled to travel around Spring time and typically book far in advance! Sending out your save the dates early will remind people that your wedding is coming up. If they really want to be there, they will plan their trips and expenses around your big day! Be sure to send your invites early in the new year as well – better yet, hand them out around the Christmas table! They will surely love the reminder ahead of time!

Good luck with your planning!

 

Oscar Gown or Wedding Dress?

Is it just us or was the red carpet at this years Academy Awards all wedding inspired?

As we watched the gorgeous stars walk the red carpet, we couldn’t help but envision future brides in similar dresses.

Here are our picks for best potential wedding dresses – which one would you wear?

Bridal Appointment FAQ

During your first ever bridal appointment, you will be wondering a thousand different things. Of course this is normal, it’s not every day you buy a wedding dress! Here at Lovebird Bridal, we came up with a useful tool to look over before your first appointment. Introducing, the Bridal Appointment FAQ!

1. How early should I purchase my wedding gown?

It typically takes about 6 months to order in your wedding dress. You want to plan for a 2 month period before your wedding for alterations as well. This means your wedding dress should be purchased at least 8 months prior to your wedding. There is certainly no harm in ordering up to a year before your wedding if you’re excited (who wouldn’t be?), just ensure that your alterations are done closer to the wedding.

2. What sort of alterations need to be done?

When we measure you to order your dress (bust, waist and hips), we order based on the largest measurement. Once the dress has arrived, there will be a few alterations needed in either the bust, waist or hips. Also, the length is always addressed with the seamstress as well as the bustle. (The bustle is a type of framework used to support the drapery of the back of the dress — so you can celebrate, dance and walk around at the reception without a train).

3. What color do most people tend to buy?

People always seemed surprised to know that most people go for an ivory dress. It’s the color that compliments most skin tones. A few years ago, it was the opposite. The main trend was a pure white dress which leads some people to wonder if it looks odd to have a ivory dress. It always comes down to your own personal preference.

4. Should I wear a bra with my dress?

In most wedding gown, there is sufficient support and boning to hold everything in place. We usually recommend not wearing a bra so you can feel as comfortable as possible. If you want a little bit more lift, you can get some cups sewn in.

5. I am planning on loosing weight, should I order a smaller size?

Measurements should be taken the moment you buy the dress. This will take away the stress of knowing you need to lose weight. If you don’t lose the weight, then the size will work out fine. If you do lose the weight, great! We always say it’s better to have it a bit bigger than too small. Taking it in is always easier than letting it out. Fitting into a dress should not be on your list of things to stress about.

6. Do I have the option between a zip or lace up back?

This usually depends on the designer in question. Some offer the option of either a zip or lace up and some will only sell the dress as it is. Just be sure to specify your preference at the beginning of the appointment.

7. How early should we purchase bridesmaid dresses?

For bridesmaids, it usually takes up to 3-4 months to come in store. Don’t forget, they will also need to have alterations but it will not be as extensive as a wedding gown. A month before the wedding should be just fine. This also applies to mother of the bride/groom dresses.

8. What are my options if I have less than 6 months until my wedding?

In that case you should look into any kind of sample sales or off the rack options. This way the dress is in store and you can jump right into the alteration process.

Now you are a pro even before going to your first appointment! You can enjoy the process knowing exactly what to expect! Have fun!

Veils 101

The one accessory that ties together your bridal ensemble is the veil. Now, you may think you have the choice between either a short or long veil. Not the case! You actually have quite a variety of styles and lengths of veils to choose from. We know what you may be thinking: not another long list of confusing options! Do not fret, here at Lovebird Bridal, we knew you could use a little help. Follow our guide to find the veil that best suits your dress, venue and personality.

Lengths

Birdcage for the Vintage Bride

The shortest possible length for a veil is the birdcage. It has risen to fame once again in the past couple of years, and for good reason. It adds a touch of class and gives a vintage feel to your wedding day. This style is worn by just covering your eyes, and can extend as low as your chin. Easy to wear, it adds a hint of fun and mystery to your overall look.

Shoulder for the Fashion Forward Bride

The shoulder length veil is less common these days, but is perfect for a bride searching for an haute couture,  fashion forward look. It ends anywhere between your shoulder and the middle of your back. It is a go-to length if you have any detail you’re hoping to show off on the back of your dress. Its perfection for a modern or city wedding.

Waist for the Princess Bride

This veil typically goes to your waist or elbow which is perfect for a dress with a large skirt. The waist length veil compliments a ballgown or princess style dress as it allows the skirt to flow outward and freely, without layering. The beauty of a ballgown is the accent on your waist line; if there’s a veil over top the skirt, it takes away from the desired effect.

Finger Tip for the “Kate Middleton” inspired Bride

Ah, the Kate Middleton veil. We all drooled over her perfect bridal look, there’s no denying. The way her veil flowed effortlessly inspired us all to aim for a similar look. The finger tip length flatters most brides and their dresses and tends to be known as the most popular veil. It particularly works well if you have a mermaid, fit and flare or sheath dress as it will add a touch of volume to your look.

Waltz for the Dancing Queen Bride

Falling anywhere between your knee and ankle, the waltz length (also known as ballet length) gives the illusion of a floor length veil while still being able to bust a move. While it is not as popular as the finger tip length, it is a beautiful length that offers the traditional look without tripping over yourself.

Chapel  for the Romantic Bride

Looking to make an elegant statement? The chapel length is certainly the way to go! Also known as the sweep veil, it may drape past your feet, but does not have a train. It is fitting for a church wedding and romantic venue. It is also a wonderful accessory for pictures following the ceremony since the veil will flow nicely on a breezy day.

Cathedral for the Formal Bride

Known as the royal inspired veil, it is ideal for making a grand impression. It is often longer than the train and is beautiful to photograph. Although it can be difficult to manage for an outdoor wedding (with all the wind), it is spectacular for any formal setting.

Styles

Blusher

A blusher is the part of your veil that stands in front of your face as you walk down the aisle. The length for this piece can go from a birdcage to much longer. It is more commonly known as the style that is used when the father lifts the veil to present the bride to her future husband. It can be quite romantic and traditional.

Mantilla

The mantilla is a style that does not go with every dress and setting but when it does, it can be absolutely gorgeous! Essentially, the mantilla (man-tea-ya) is a circular piece of lace that is held in place with a comb. It frames the face and the rest of the dress with its lace edge. It can be used in many different veil lengths and would go superbly with a simple dress.

Juliet Cap

Famously known as the style worn by Grace Kelly, the Juliet cap is similar to the mantilla but is larger and more structured.

Bouffant

A bouffant, also known as a pouf veil, is tulle gathered to a hairpiece in order to create height. Very popular in the 60’s, it is a great piece for a vintage or bold look.

Two-Tier

A two-tier or double-tier veil is self-explanatory. It basically has two lengths of veils combined in one which either becomes a blusher or simply a longer veil. You can also opt for a three tier veil for more volume and drama in which case there is typically a layer that can be removed for the reception.

Which Style Works for Your Body Type?

As exciting as it may be to finally be able to check off the arguably most fun part of your wedding planning to-do list, every bride will feel overwhelmed with the wide variety of dresses at hand. Although there is an abundance of styles, colors and fabrics to choose from, it is important to find the fit that best suits your body.  Although every bride will walk in with insecurity in the back of their mind, they need to be educated on what dress style will hug their curves at the perfect spot. Here is a list of wedding gown shapes along with the body type they flatter the most.

The Hourglass Figure

The term hourglass has a very literal meaning. It is known as the shape that has a small waist and where the busts and the hips are nearly the same measurement. To best showcase your curves, you will want to try either of these styles:

• Mermaid or Fit and Flare: The mermaid and fit and flare are styles that hugs the body from bust to below the hips. This fit definitely flatters the hourglass figure simply because it hugs the curves perfectly and allows you to show off your enviable figure.

The Pear Shaped Figure

The typical pear shaped woman is narrow in the shoulder and wider in the hips.  In order to find your ideal dress, you will want to try either of the following styles:

• A-Line: A-Line has a silhouette that is narrower at the top, flaring gently wider toward the bottom. It is known as a go-to when wanting to disguise bottom-heavy figures. By drawing focus to the upper half of the dress where it sinches into the waist, you will create a gorgeous, effortless shape for your wedding day.

• Ball gown: The ball gown is a good choice for the pear shaped figure simply because is accentuates the waist. It typically has a full skirted bottom from the waist down which highlights the smallest part of your body.

The Straight Figure

The straight figure simply means that the waist is the same as the hips. In order to compliment the body shape, the following styles will be most comfortable and flattering:

• Empire waist or Sheath: The empire waist accentuates the smallest part of your body, your waist. The rest of the dress will fall to the floor giving it a sheath look. A straight figure is one of the only body types that can pull it off because the proportions are not extremely defined and the floor length simple flow is timeless and classic.

The Apple Shaped Figure

Slim legs; with a wide abdomen and chest is what is known as the apple figure.  In order to give the illusion of a smaller waist, these are the recommended dress styles:

• A-Line: An A-Line dress is a good pick because it will be snug around the waist and slightly flare outward gradually. This will give an apple shaped figure a balanced silhouette as it will appear as though the waist is smaller against the flared skirt.

• Ballgown/Princess: For an apple shaped figure, the ball gown has the same effect as then A-Line only more dramatic. A ballgown flares out significantly from the waist through the skirt. The effect of a smaller waist will be more evident as there is much more volume in the skirt.

The Petite Figure

• A-Line: An A-line dress is a simple look that will slightly hug petite curves. There is no defined flare which will work for anyone who is shorter. With a small defining outline, it is a good way to avoid looking lost in a dress.

• Sheath/Empire Waist: This style of dress will give the illusion that the legs are much longer than they are. The gown will fall from the bust line, creating one long line. It is also easier in term of alterations because the length is simple to shorten.

• Fit and Flare: This style is similar but more subtle compared to the mermaid style of gown .  The fit and flare hugs the curves but does not have an extremely defined line where the dress flares out like a mermaid does. This is a great way to showcase your curves without having a clear cut flare that may end up starting at your ankles.

We hope this has helped you understand which style works best for your unique body shape. Now you’re ready to enjoy your wedding dress shopping experience!

Your ”Picture Perfect” Checklist

There is no question that your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. It will also be one of the most photographed days you’ll ever experience. Memories are forever and the pictures that go along with it are tokens of that moment that you will have for a lifetime. Here at Lovebird Bridal Boutique, we thought it would be helpful to offer a few tips on how to make sure that those pictures are ones you will want to show off for the rest of your life.

‘’The’’ Dress

Your wedding dress is one of the most important items on your wedding day. Make sure to allow yourself enough time to try on dresses and find the one you truly love. It is your day, so be sure to find your dream dress and not your best friend, bridesmaids or mother’s dream dress.

Make sure it is a gown you can stand, walk and dance in comfortably. More often than not, malfunctions and general discomfort are due to settling for a dress that felt rushed or they were pressured into buying. Giving yourself enough time is key.

Lastly, it is important to have a good seamstress. A dress that is tailored to fit your body will accentuate your best features and you are sure to feel like a superstar on your big day.

Classic Hairstyle

First and foremost, start collecting pictures of hairstyles that you can envision yourself sporting. Celebrity red carpet pictures are always a good place to start, especially with the upcoming award season this winter.  Keeping it simple is our best piece of advice since you certainly don’t want to overpower or overwhelm your dress. Sleek up-dos may look good in person but in pictures, it might not photograph as well. Finding a look with a lot of volume is a safer bet.

Once you have narrowed down one specific hairstyle, be sure to practice it before your wedding day.  Most hairstylists are willing to test it out and give you a sense of what it will look like. After testing it, make sure to take pictures of yourself at every angle to ensure you really love it.

Finally, finding a small hairpiece will come in handy if you want to add it once you remove your veil for the reception. It’s good to have another piece to draw your look together into the night.

Timeless Nails

He put a ring on it, and everyone will want to see it. You must ensure your nails are flawless. Neatly trimmed, buffed and clear polished at the very least. Getting a manicure a day or two before your wedding is ideal. You don’t want to do this too far in advance only to avoid a chipped or broken nail.

We recommend getting a shellac polish for the simple reason that it is a strong protective polish that is guaranteed to survive almost anything for 14 days. It can only be applied in a salon but it’s certainly worth the trip.

A French tip is timeless. Getting a crazy color can draw unwanted attention to your hands against your white gown or your bouquet. You don’t want to look back at your pictures and have a neon orange blob staring back at you in every picture. Neutrals and French tips never go out of style.

Enhanced Features

Enhancing your natural beauty with makeup will only make you look even more beautiful. Try to stay away from heavy colors or liners that will mask your face. Don’t try and transform yourself; simply make the real you look better. It’s always best to do a makeup trial before hand and take photographs in different lighting to make sure it’s the look you want. Avoid deep red or pale pink lipsticks and make sure to use waterproof mascara.

As for skin care, make sure to test new products well in advance to avoid any funny reactions or rashes. If you plan on spray tanning, the same rule applies. After using the spray tan, wear a light colored shirt to see if anything rubs off. You don’t want to stain your wedding gown. If your wedding is during the summer, be mindful when you’re at the beach or on a walk. Sunburns happen to the best of us and you don’t want to have a crazy white criss-cross on your back in your strapless wedding gown.

Finally, make sure to moisturize all over. This will give your skin a healthy glow that you can show off on your big day.

Sleeping Beauty

Getting loads of sleep can seem far fetched with all the pre-wedding stress and planning but, at some point, you need to take care of yourself. No one wants to look frail, stressed with bags under their eyes on their special day. Going to bed early will help you feel energized for the next day and keeping up this routine will certainly ease the stress. Drinking lots of water will also cleanse your body, which will ultimately give you the glow you are hoping to have on your wedding day.

Shoe-tastic!

Our best piece of advice for shoes would be to bring two pairs. Of course you will have a fabulous pair for your walk down the aisle but make sure to break them in ahead of time. Practice walking, speed walking and dancing in them because you will end up doing all of the above at some point. However, as the day progresses, you want to have something to change into if need be. Now we’re not saying Crocs are your best bet for comfortable shoes, but a white pair of flip flops, ballet flats or lace Toms would do just fine and certainly won’t ruin your ensemble. If you want to dance until you drop, you want to be happy and pain-free.

What You Don’t See

Everyone can feel a little insecure about her body. Wearing comfortable and seamless shape wear under your gown will relieve that stress and keep everything in place while you dance the night away. We also know you’re probably ready to go with some sexy under wear for later, make sure to include that in our next tip.

Survival Kit

From the moment you wake up in the morning to the night following your ‘’I do’s’’, there is a lot that can happen. We suggest having a little survival kit handy to help out in a time of need, as minor as it may be. Who knows? It might be a really hot day and you need a little freshening up or that mascara may have leaked in spite of it’s waterproof promotion. Here is what we recommend bringing along because you just never know :

• Mouthwash or mints
• Lip gloss
• Powder or concealer
• Mascara
• Deodorant or perfume/mist
• Band-Aids

Now you’re ready to go! Your fabulous wedding day self is in the works and you have the checklist to help! We would love to see your beautiful wedding day looks. Be sure to send us a picture!

Happy planning!