Something Precious

Not all brides choose to wear a diamond in their engagement ring. These days, other precious stones are finding their way into engagement ring settings. Find out what your gem of choice says about you...

Amethyst: According to the Bible, this stone means perfection. Roman women believed the amethyst was a symbol of faithfulness and sincerity and would guarantee their husbands' love.

Aquamarine: The aquamarine brings intelligence and courage to the wearer. It is said that the person who wears this stone can read others' minds.

Diamond: Matrimonial happiness will be yours with this popular wedding stone. It is also said to be a symbol of innocence. The bride who wears a diamond will have the courage needed to protect herself from evil spirits. According to ancient folklore, a husband would hold a diamond over his bride's head. If she were a faithful wife, she would turn towards him. If she turned away, it proved her guilty of infidelity. If she passed the test, she kept the prize of the diamond.

Emerald: The emerald promises a happy home and a successful relationship. During the rise of the Roman Empire, Cleopatra was known for wearing brilliant emeralds from her own mine.

Garnet: A large garnet was said to have provided light for Noah's Ark, according to ancient Rabbinic writings. The wearer of this stone is loyal, stable, and is a true friend. "Love will come with giving a garnet."

Ruby: The ruby is the sign of love. Legend says that if the ruby in a ring grows a lighter shade of red, then true love exists. But beware of a ruby that grows darker with age. It means the course of love is not running smoothly. The ruby is said to hold a warm flame and is considered "the sun's own gem."

Sapphire: The sapphire stands for truth and faithfulness. It is said to bring good health and fortune. Ancient Persians believed that the sky's blue color reflected a sapphire supporting the earth.

Above photo from International Jewelers

Dress Code

One question we get asked a lot is about dress code. This seems to be big issue among brides, especially in the Northwest, where casual attire is the new evening wear. It sounds like everyone could use a little advice on what to wear when attending a wedding, so we've gathered some basic rules of thumb to answer some of your questions.

1. Black-Tie
"Black Tie" means the men should wear a tuxedo with a black bow or long tie and the women should wear a long formal gown. If you are a bride and would like to have your wedding be "Black Tie" remember that as a result your wedding must be very formal. It is most likely your wedding will be held in a ballroom or formal outdoor tent. You must also reciprocate the guests gesture to dress formally by providing a 3 to 5 course meal and open bar.

2. White-Tie
Like "Black-Tie" all the same rules apply for "White-Tie" except the men done a white bow or long tie, with white vests and shirts, while the women wear long formal gowns.

3. Black-Tie Optional
A "Black Tie Optional" or "Black Tie Invited" gives you the option of wearing a tuxedo or formal dress, but it should clue you into the formality of the event, meaning a dark suit and tie would be your other option. Women can wear cocktail, long dresses or dressy evening separates.

4. Creative Black Tie
Creative Black Tie leaves room for trendy interpretations of formal wear. Men can go more modern with a tux -- maybe a black shirt, no tie. Women can wear long or short dresses or evening separates.

Sometimes, themed parties in the South call for dress codes like "Texas Black Tie" or other variations of Creative Black Tie. In that situation, you can have more fun with it, choosing a dressy look with a theme (for him, it could be a tux with boots and for her it could be a long dress paired with Southwestern style silver belt and jewelry).

5. Semi-Formal or Evening Attire Invited
"Semi-Formal" or "Evening Attire Invited" means that tuxes are not required, nor are long dresses. An evening wedding (after 6 PM) would still dictate dark suits for men, and a cocktail dress for her. Daytime semi-formal events mean a suit for men and an appropriate short dress or dressy suit for women.

6. Cocktail Attire or Cocktail Reception
"Cocktail Attire" means short, elegant dresses for women and dark suits for men. For women, wearing the classic "little black dress" is appropriate.

7. Dressy Casual or Casual
"Dressy Casual" calls for dressed-up versions of casual looks. For men, it could be trousers and a sportcoat, for women a dressy pants look. Jeans, shorts, T-shirts and other casual looks are NEVER appropriate for Dressy Casual. Dressy Casual may be the right attire for a beach wedding.

"Casual" generally means anything goes and is really never appropriate for a wedding.

More General Questions...

Is it okay to wear black to a wedding?
Yes, but only for evening weddings. Gone are the days where black is only reserved for funerals. Just try to avoid wearing black from head to toe. Pair your dress with a colorful or metallic pair of pumps or a brightly colored handbag and jewelry.

Is it okay to wear white to a wedding?
No. White is reserved for the bride. But if you have a dress that is white in the background with a print in the forefront, that is acceptable.

Is it okay to ask your mother-in-law-to-be to wear a certain color and style?
Yes. Typically, it is appropriate for the mother-of-the-bride to choose her dress first. Then once she has chosen a style and color, the bride should give her mother-in-law a description of the gown so she can coordinate, without matching identically.

Is it okay to show skin or cleavage at a wedding?
Wear something feminine and appropriate, out of respect for your hosts. Clubwear, overtly sexy clothing (strapless, see-through, etc) doesn't belong at a wedding. If you have to ask if it's appropriate, it probably isn't.

Should men wear a tie to a wedding?
Yes. Even if the attire specifies semi-formal, wearing a tie is respectful. It is always better to be overdressed, than underdressed.

What if an invitation doesn't say what to wear?
Use your judgment. If the wedding is taking place during the daytime, a pastel colored dress or suit is most appropriate. If the wedding is occurring after 6 p.m. a little black dress is always appropriate. For men, a light colored suit for daytime and a dark suit and tie for evening is most appropriate.

A Final Tip for the bride...

If you are a bride that cares how people dress at your wedding, it is perfectly acceptable to add a line to the bottom of your wedding invitations with dress code instructions. If you have a wedding website, you could also include a "what to wear" section for your guests. In fact, most people like having a little heads-up on how they should dress, especially for daytime or outdoor weddings, which can be a bit ambiguous.

When Two Become One

Lately we've been hearing a lot of news about money and cost of living. With current spikes in gas prices, a hurting real estate market and our national debt, brides and grooms need to get smart about their future by organizing their finances before they say "I Do."

Here are some quick ideas to help you keep your finances on track.

Keep a list of all assets as well as your properties' estimated worth. This should include but is not limited to your home, car, jewelry, checking and savings accounts, antiques and other valuable possessions. Remember, when you decide on an insurance plan, the more items you include in the same plan, the better rate and discount you will receive. Also consider a life insurance policy for added security.

Also keep a list of all debts and outstanding credit card balances and loans before the wedding. Know ahead of time what money you need to set aside to pay off bills so you can budget your wedding expenses accordingly. Then make a conscious effort to pay off what is known as "bad debt" first such as credit card debt. If you have student loans or a mortgage, make the minimum payment each month and do it on time, but try to pay more than the minimum amount each month for your credit cards.

Start paying yourself first. Even if you are not married this is an important tip. Start early with a retirement plan such as a 401(k) or an IRA. If the company you work for offers this benefit, take advantage of it and put whatever amount you are able to into your account each month.

Seek advice. Don't expect yourself or your partner to know all the answers when combining assets or planning for your future. Talk to your bank or a financial expert who can offer you the advice you need on how to start planning for your future today.

Plan for the future early. If you are planning on buying a home, starting a family or investing, consider all of your options before making any rash decisions. Always seek expert advice and do your homework before investing any money. The more planning you do from the start, the less stress you'll put on your marriage later.

Hey All You First-Time Home Buyers, We Have News For You

If you are planning a wedding and also shopping for your first home together you certainly have a lot on your plate. As first-time buyers you'll need the most advice and education you can get and that means finding a real estate agent willing to give the extra attention and time to a newbie like you. Don't be afraid to meet with a few different real estate agents in the process to interview them. You need to find the right match for you.

On HGTV, Sandra Rinomato works with what she calls "Property Virgins" to educate and prepare them for process ahead. If you too are a "property virgin" we recommend checking your local listings to find out when this show airs in your area. You'll learn a lot about the woes and joys of buying a home and receive some free advice on what to look for and what to avoid when you're buying property.

Here are a few of her tips that we find most useful. To read all of her advice, click here.

1. Don't forget to set aside money for closing costs when budgeting out what you can afford. It's typically one and a half to two percent of the purchase price. That goes toward the land transfer tax and pays a lawyer.

2. Brand-new condos tend to be smaller, sometimes no larger than one bedroom, while older units typically have more square footage.

3. When figuring out the price of a property, sometimes it makes more sense to look at the price of a house in terms of monthly payments instead of focusing on that big number.

4. You can make changes to the inside of a condominium, with the proper condo board approval, but never to the exterior.

5. You can't negotiate maintenance fees with a condo, and those fees tend to go up periodically.

6. It's better to walk away if you're not comfortable with the situation.

7. A simple renovation after the sale can boost the value of the investment by thousands.

8. When it comes to investing, the best place to invest is in an up-and-coming area.

9. It is especially important to have a home inspection if you are looking to buy an aging or older house. They look past the visible surface to the infrastructure, inspecting plumbing and looking for faulty fixtures and waste lines. They check electrical systems to make sure they aren't overloaded or a safety hazard. They also look at possible structural problems like the foundation, walls and floor joists.

10. The rule of thumb is that you should be able to afford a mortgage three times your income.

Queen Bee For A Day

Hey all you bridesmaids and maids or matrons of honor, we have an idea for you! Every bride could use a special day of being pampered, honored, and adored, even if it’s just for a day. Give your friend a day of royal treatment. All she has to do is clear her schedule and proudly wear the crown of the “Queen Bee”. From Party Blu Prints, comes a 13-page how-to manual to take you step by step through the process of planning the ultimate "Queen Bee for a Day" event for the bride-to-be. Just think how loved she'll feel knowing you put the time and effort into a de-stress session just for her?

Party Blu Print walks you through everything, step by step. Although this is one of the most loving gifts you’ll ever give her, you’ll be surprised by how easy it is to pull off.

Download the entire manual by clicking here.

Writing Your Vows: The Dos & Don'ts

One recent tradition that is becoming more and more popular is the writing of your own vows. Adding this personalized touch to your wedding ceremony adds tenderness and romance that can never be contrived or phoney. If they are from your heart, they will always emote the right response from your partner.

Here are just a few simple guidelines to get you started...

Do – Sit down with your fiancé and discuss overall guidelines for your vows. You want to keep your vows similar in length and style. You certainly don’t want to say too little or too much, when your fiancé is doing the opposite. Also, if you decide to add some humor to your vows, but your partner keeps their vows very serious, the ceremony will not feel balanced.

Don’t – Don’t write for the crowds. Keep your vows only about each other and your relationship. Don’t feel like you have to make your guests laugh or cry. Your vows are about you and your fiancé and your guests are simply there to share in YOUR joy.

Do – Talk with your officiant to gain his/her perspective on your vows. Your officiant can offer insight on what is appropriate and can also help with writers block by offering suggestions and feedback.

Don’t – Don’t try to memorize your vows word for word. In the moment, no matter how many times you’ve rehearsed you may go blank with the excitement of the situation. So at the very least, keep a cheat sheet.

Do – Review traditional vows for inspiration. The most common vows are: “I so-and-so, take you so-and-so, as my lawfully wedded husband/wife to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until death do we part. This is my solemn vow.” Remember that your vows are about a promise you are making to each other, not just about how great your partner is.

Don’t – Don’t embarrass your partner or friends and family with your vows. Sincerity is key but you don’t want to get too intimate or personal.

Do – Be specific. Use words and phrases that are to-the-point and truly signify your commitment to your partner. Don’t use fluffy words or phrases to make your vows sound profound. They will come off sounding pretentious.

Don’t – Don’t use clichés. Your commitment to each other is unique and special, and cheesy cliché’s are not appropriate for the seriousness of your vows.

Do – Practice, Practice, Practice! You want your partner to believe in what you are saying, so don’t ruin the moment by not being prepared. Plus it will help lessen your nerves and you will be able to focus on your fiancé rather than the lines you are about to recite.

Click here for more "How-To's" from our "What You Need To Know Section"

A Burnless Flame

Candles add an extremely elegant touch to your wedding. In low light, the gentle flicker of candles sets the stage for a romantic evening. But, unfortunately, due to safety concerns, many wedding facilities do not allow candles to be used on site. So what are you to do if you had your heart set on a hundred flickering lights?

Meet Ashley Danae Designs. Ashley Danae Designs creates flameless candles that are made of wax and have a deliciously light vanilla scent. The candle’s "flame" flickers like a real candle, but instead of burning down to the wick, you need only a fresh pair of batteries to recharge their light. Unless you walk right up to the candle and pick it up, you have no idea the candle is not real and the best part is you'll never have to replace it.

Ashley Danae's candles also come in a wide variety of colors, patterns and styles. Just check out some of the samples below.

Fire & Ice Wedding Theme

If you are still in search of inspiration for a unique wedding and color scheme look no further. Often for corporate or social events, a common theme is Fire & Ice, but we think this is also a great underlying theme for a wedding. You may never think to combine blues and silvers with deep reds, but actually, the color combination is quite dramatic and beautiful. If you don't like to pair the two colors together, you could also always plan an "ice" themed ceremony and move to a "fire" themed reception or vice versa. After all, Fire & Ice works perfectly for weddings because we all know there is ice on your finger and fire in your relationship.

Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing...



Top Left: Nicole Miller Stretch Charmeuse Dress available at Nordstrom, $385
Top Middle: Maggy London Embellished Trapeze Dress available at Nordstrom, $148
Top Right: Donna Morgan Ombré Silk Dress available at Nordstrom, $178


Top Left: Urns with ice and crystals featured in Brides
Top Right: Lavish ice bucket from Lush Life Home, $54
Bottom Left: Faux ice cream cupcakes featured in Brides
Middle Right: Platinum pear shaped brooch from Levieve
Bottom Right: Preston Bailey martini glasses with Cosmo Bleu martini inside


Right: Silk Charmeuse Pintuck Dress available at Ann Taylor, $188
Middle Left: Christine Double V-Neck Dress available at Ann Taylor, $198
Middle Right: Maggy London Charmeuse-Empire-Waist Dress available at Macys, $158
Right: BCBGMAXAZRIA Satin Halter Tiered Dress available at Macys, $220


Top Left: Every Fire theme needs loads of candles to set the mood (Brides)
Top Right: Fire Drill table decor, featured in Brides
Bottom: Left: Deep red table decor featured in Brides
Bottom Right: In Hindu traditions, couples fuel a fire throughout the reception to give thanks for their wedding. (Brides)

Glamor Is Your Middle Name

There is really only one time in your life when you have the excuse to really glam yourself up, and that is your wedding day. Most girls love playing dressing up with old fashioned accessories and over-the-top fashion jewelry when they are children, but even as adults, women secretly love to put on the ritz when it comes to wedding day fashion. Glamor never goes out of style and these days, wedding photography photo sessions are getting more and more creative. One trend we just love is the golden age of Hollywood, and adding simple touches to your wedding day accessories from this era adds sophistication and ultra feminine style.

Plus it's just plain old fun. Ask your photographer about scheduling part of your portrait session for these types of unique shots. Your photographer can later add touches and color enhancements to make it look like you just stepped off the red carpet in 1954.



These photos were featured in Modern Bride, and taken by Alban Christ. Click here to view the entire portfolio.

Destination Honolulu

If you are planning a destination wedding to Honolulu, Hawaii, we'd like to introduce you to a cosmetics company on the island that specializes in bridal makeup. Meet Malena Cosmetics. The Hawaiian translation for wedding is Maleana. Maleana Cosmetics was created in 2005 by Oahu based celebrity stylist Dorys Foltin to cater to the needs of local and visitor brides alike opting the islands to celebrate their special day. The beauty line’s aim is to aid in long lasting results and remain durable in hot, humid, and all other inhibiting weather conditions. Although Maleana was born for brides, the array of products are best for any beach dwelling babe. The collection has caught the attention of loads of Hawaii locals who live for the light mineral liquid foundation, bronzing powders, and sticky free, tasty lip glosses.

Our favorite Maleana product is the Liquid Mineral Powder Foundation ($38.00). Advanced technology delivers all the benefits of mineral powders in an easy-to-use hypoallergenic liquid powder. The breakthrough formula is perfect for brides that love liquid foundation and who shy away from mineral powders. The velvety smooth fluid triples as a foundation, sunscreen and anti-ager.

Online Mannequins

Have you ever walked by a mannequin in a window display and noticed how well put together they look? From head to toe they exhibit pure style. Everything coordinates without looking too matchy-matchy and the accessories paired with the outfit add just the right amount of flair. But with online shopping, which has become more and more popular, it's hard to really picture how an outfit will come together. That's why we love Forever 21's "Find My Look" section on their website. They put together complete outfits in many different styles. All you have to to is click on the outfit you like and you'll be directed to a page that allows you to purchase each individual piece in one swoop. It takes some of the guesswork out of online shopping. Check out some of the ensembles they've put together below. We wish all online shopping were this easy.




{And remember, when it comes to your wedding planning, consider banquetevent.com as your ultimate wedding shopping spree. We have it all from gowns and accessories, to organic catering to venues to suit 20 to 800 guests. It's just a click away.}

Hot Summer Trend: Scarves!

Everyone wants to have that "I just threw this on and I look fabulous" look when they step outside this summer. The quickest and easiest way to do just that this season is to add a fashionable, light weight and colorful scarf around your neck. We've found some delightful and affordable scarves to fit your budget. These scarves can also double as an evening shawl when you take an evening stroll with your hunny. Check these out...


PRINTS


Top Left: Orange silk scarf from Forever 21, $7.80
Top Right: Lotus print scarf from Forever 21, $6.80
Bottom Left: Silk pattern scarf from Forever 21, $7.80
Bottom Right: Graphic floral print from Forever 21, $5.80

SOLIDS


Top Left: Solid Amanda scarf from Forever 21, $8.80
Top Middle: Ombre scarf from Forever 21, $7.80
Top Right: Pink fringe scarf from Forever 21, $6.80
Bottom Left: Filigree scarf from Urban Outfitters, $38
Bottom Right: Monica knit scarf from Forever 21, $9.80

WRAPS


Left and Middle: Print wraps from Anthropologie, $38-$94
Right: Oversized striped scarf from Urban Outfitters, $19.99

Smart Solutions For Women On The Go

We love it when we find a product that makes sense for women. One of our pet peeves is when we have a pair of jeans or pants that are the perfect length for high heels, but then drag on the ground (and in Seattle that also means mud) when we want to wear the same pant with a cute pair of flats. Have no fret, ladies! A solution to this annoying problem is now here.

Meet a company called Zakkerz. Zakkerz (n.) is a temporary pant roll-up wrap used to hold pants that have been rolled up to a shorter length for flat shoes. Here is how it works: Roll your pant leg up to a desired length, then wrap zakkerz around the bottom of your pant with one end of zakkerz inside the pant leg and the other end outside the pant leg. The magnets bring the two ends of the zakkerz together – holding the roll-up in place. Zakkerz will hold your rolled pant legs in place when you need to temporarily shorten them without damaging your pants in any way!


So if you commute to work or a special event and want to wear high heels when you get there, but flats on the way over, just use Zakkerz pant magnets and you won't have to worry about a dirty or torn hemline.

The Dreaded "B" Word....BUDGET!

The following suggestions will ensure that your wedding turns out the way you want it while keeping your budget in line.

The most important advice we can offer both you AND your parents is DO NOT GO INTO DEBT! Weddings come in a variety of types and sizes; one is not necessarily better than the other based on the size or how much money you spend. Whatever you do, don't start your married life in debt.

BE REALISTIC WITH YOUR BUDGET
Your wedding budget should be handled like a business budget. If your boss said, "The budget for the Christmas party is $10,000," you would use only those services that would keep you within budget. The same is true for your wedding. Find the services that can accomplish what you want within the budget you've designated. Be realistic about your budget. If you have only $5,000 for your reception, it's unlikely you're going to be able to afford a full sit-down dinner for 150 guests, but a buffet with hot and cold hors d'oeuvres may work very well. Follow your budget allocations as closely as possible. This will eliminate financial stress.

DON'T FORGET TAXES AND GRATUITIES
Be sure to ask if all charges for delivery and setup, taxes, and gratuities have been included in the estimates you get from all the businesses and services you have selected. These additional costs can be a very nasty surprise the week before the wedding!

SAMPLE BUDGET SHEET

Service Budget Actual Deposit Due Balance Due
Caterer $5,000 $5,250 $500 5/5 $4,750 8/6
Florist
Photos

SETTING UP A BUDGET
It is recommended you set up a separate bank account for your wedding. This way funds can be tracked and kept separate from regular finances. Always pay businesses or services with a check or credit card to better record and track expenses. Allocation of your budget depends on what is most important to the bride, the groom, and the families contributing. Some spend more on music and entertainment or photography than others. The following is a breakdown of average spending by percentage:

Engagement ring - 14%
Reception - 40%
Photography and videography - 15%
Bride's and groom's attire - 5%
Music - 4%
Flowers - 3%
Invitations - 2%
Miscellaneous (clergy fees, rehearsal dinner, attendants gifts, limos) - 7%
Honeymoon - 10%

What You Need To Know Before You Hire A Photographer

In banquetevent.com's "What You Need To Know" section of our wedding planning website, we feature loads of articles to help guide you through the wedding planning process. We have tons of free information and advice to ease the stress of working with wedding vendors and making the right choices for your big day. In the coming weeks, we'd like to delve into our advice section and pick out a few particular pieces we deem the most important to share with you in our blog.

Today we'd like to focus on Photography. As of late, we've heard some startling news. Brides are not hiring wedding photographers. It seems today that brides are selecting friends and family to be the designated wedding photographer. These days, everyone with a digital camera can take the occasional beautiful shot, which is a wonderful thing. But, just because today's cameras have made it easy for the average person to take beautiful pictures, doesn't mean you should forfeit hiring a professional for the day of your wedding. Here's why a professional photographer is always the way to go.

1. A wedding photographer knows lighting. Most people don't realize the importance of good lighting when it comes to photo taking. However, a professional photographer knows how to utilize good lighting with the proper equipment and more importantly how to adjust when lighting is bad.

2. A wedding photographer's real work begins after the wedding. A photographer will take hundreds of photographs of your wedding, but in the end, he or she will carefully touch up each image so that the end result is nothing short of flawless. With today's image programs like Photoshop, even the slightest color, hue or saturation adjustment can make a huge difference in the final result and most professional photographers are trained with the skills to make your images even more spectacular.

3. A wedding photographer knows the ins and outs of your location. Most wedding photographers who have years of experience are very familiar with your wedding location. They have most likely shot a wedding at your venue before so they know the ins and outs and where the best photo opts are. Even if you are having your wedding in an obscure location, your wedding photographer will most likely make a trip to your site before the wedding to come up with a plan of action.

4. A wedding photographer will keep your wedding on pace. Having an objective third party around will help organize your group in a timely fashion so the photo session moves quickly and doesn't interrupt the flow of the day. A wedding photographer often acts as wedding coordinator too, just by keep things organized.

5. A wedding photographer has a plan. Wedding photographers know what images will be important to you when the event is all said and done and will not forget to take the shots that matter. If you hire an unexperienced person, they may forget to take a picture with you and your grandmother or the three generational shot you'll treasure forever. In the hoopla of the day, it's easy to overlook small details and this is where experience comes in very handy.

When it comes to your wedding, leave the photo taking to the professionals. In the end, you'll have a timeless collection of memories you can never recreate.

To help you know how to choose the right photographer for you, click here to read our Helpful Hint article. Then browse our website to look through the portfolios of some of the best photographers in the business.

Latest Trends in Menswear

People think weddings are all about the bride, but we have a very different perspective. The modern man has every right to interject his own personal style in the wedding just as much as the bride. There is so much emphasis placed on the wedding gown, that the groom's attire can sometimes get lost in the hoopla. That is, until now. Menswear is making a splash on the runways all over the world and we've found some incredibly hot designs to keep your groom looking like he just stepped out of GQ.

Check out the 2009 bridal menswear collection from Spanish designer Fuentecapala. Can you picture your groom in one of these amazing tuxedos? Check out the wide variety of styles, colors, and designs. We're seeing alot of texture in the fabric choices and thin straight leg pants. You'll also notice splashes of color in places like the lining of coat. For those of you like like the traditional tails and coats, you'll notice more options for your groom and even combination styles that mix the traditional tuxedo with an ascot tie.

So which one is your favorite? We're talking about the tuxedo, not the model, by the way.

Congratulations Katie and Dennis

Congratulations to Dennis and Katie Logan who were married on May 30, 2008. Dennis and Katie are now enjoying their European cruise honeymoon. We wish you all the best in your new life together!

And if you happen to be catching Wheel Of Fortune tonight, look for Katie as she appears as a contestant. Word is, she won big!

Great Beauty Secrets

For those of you who can wake up in the morning and look like Miss America without having to even try, this post may not be for you. But, if you are like the rest of us and are always looking for the best kept beauty secrets, you'll love what we've discovered for you.

Looking beautiful on your wedding day doesn't mean you have spend hundreds of dollars to create your look. We found some amazing beauty buys and want to share them with you!

Up first, check out this incredible color palate from the Color Institute available at Ulta. Regularly this 47 piece collection is already available at a great value, but now it's yours for only $4.99!


Sometimes that beautiful bridal glow everyone talks about doesn't always come naturally. So what's a bride to do who wants to shine on her wedding day? Try Global Goddess South Pacific Shimmer, available for $32. See right.


Who doesn't want sparkling white teeth on their wedding day. Now comes a beauty tool that allows you to brighten your teeth and your smile with one dual product. Brighten your smile on the go with Enbrightenment, Tarte's dual wand tube that holds goji-berry-infused gloss on one end and minty BriteSmile tooth whitener on the other. While the once-a-day application of the whitener can take up to two weeks to lighten fully, the blue undertones of the gloss instantly give the appearance of whiter teeth. Retails for $26.


If you love to live green, then you'll be delighted to use products by Physicians Formula. Physicians Formula has gone green with their new Organic Wear collection. Everything from foundation to bronzer to blush is made only of pure organic ingredients that are just as good for you as they are for the environment. Plus, the line's cute compacts use 93% less plastic than most cases! The pressed powder seen right, retails for $13.95.


If you are going for the blushing bride look, try Tarte's Cheek Stain. Tarte's latest cheek stain combines their most popular shades into a swirling stick to give skin a natural-looking flush. And the moisturizing formula is infused with goji berry and acai fruit extract to protect skin naturally. The Blushing Bride Tint Retails for $28.


Last but not least, the key to the ultimate wedding day radiance is to de-stress weeks before the big day. The best way to pamper your tense muscles is to lay in a bath of scented bubbles. Our pick for the most indulgent bubble bath collection is from Victoria's Secret. Turn the tub into your own secret garden with Victoria's Secret's foaming bubble bath scented with bouquets of alluring blooms. The ultra-moisturizing formula leaves your skin soft and your mind revitalized. Retails for $8.50.

Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week

We love to see what bridal trends are popping up in other parts of the world. We found these incredible shots of the Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week featuring gowns and designs by Gema Nicolas, Victorio & Lucchino, and Fuentecapala.

Click here to view more images from the show.

Lucky Tip: Use Lucky Crow Gift Bags

We found a really amazing company located in Portland, OR called Lucky Crow (great name) that creates the most charming and reusable gift bags we've ever seen. At banquetevent.com we are all about recycling and doing our small part to preserve the environment. So when we hear about a company in the industry also doing their part, we just have to share them with you. Check out the many options Lucky Crow offers from tiny to large in fun and funky colors.


Choose from tons of different fabric selections. Lucky Crow even offers organic options.


Order yours online at LuckyCrow.com

You Animal, You!

One trend that never seems to go out of style is animal print. From zebra stripes to leopard and giraffe spots, animal inspired clothing and accessories appear year after year in fashion magazines and runways. Dressing from head to toe in any animal print is obviously a fashion faux pas, but little well placed touches here and there are nothing short of magic.

Check out these hot finds we think you should be stowing away for your honeymoon.


Top Left: Safari Train Case available at Sephora, Retails for $78
Top Left Center: Rogan Leopard print monokini suit available at Target, Retails for $29.99
Top Center: Rogan Zebra print bathing suit available at Target, Retails for $34.99
Top Right: Rogan Giraffe print bikini available at Target, Retails for $16.99 each piece
Left Center: Rogan Leopard print beach towel available at Target, Retails for $24.99
Center: Summer Safari Bronzers available at Sephora, Retails for $16
Bottom Left: Safari Bag Collection - Zebra available at Sephora, Retails $5-$48
Bottom Right: Safari Bag Collection - Giraffe available at Sephora, Retails $5-$48


Top Row: Mossimo safari pumps available at Target, Retails for $26.99
Center Left: Women's Xhilaration® Tressa Thong Sandals - Zebra Print available at Target, Retails for $13.49
Center Right: Xhilaration® Sable Ballerina Flats - Leopard available at Target, Retails for $14.99


Top Left: Zebra print sunglasses available at White House Black Market, Retails for $14.99
Top Right: Safari Trail Sunglasses available at White House Black Market, Retails for $14.99
Bottom Left: Arbez Zebra Flip-Flop available at White House Black Market, Retails for $38
Bottom Right: Lightweight Snake Slide available at White House Black Market, Retails for $28


Top Left: Zebra Coin Purse available at White House Black Market, Retails for $18
Top Right: L.A.M.B Leopard print wallet available at Nordstrom, Retails for $175
Bottom Left: L.A.M.B. Handheld bag available at Nordstrom, Retails for $314
Bottom Right: MICHAEL Michael Kors 'Desert Patent Large' Satchel available at Nordstrom, Retails for $398


Top Left: Sequin Thin Animal Print Bangle available at Nordstrom, Retails for $28
Top Right: Kenneth Jay Lane Animal Print Enamel Bangle Bracelet available at Nordstrom, Retails for $65-$78
Bottom Left: Sequin Thick Animal Print Bangle available at Nordstrom, Retails for $38
Bottom Right: Betsey Johnson Oversized Zebra Stripe Hoops available at Nordstrom, Retails for $35