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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

We Think You'll Love...

We think you'll love this new nail polish from Nicole by OPI. This innovative nail polish packaging makes painting your own nails so very easy. Rather than a typical polish bottle and separate brush, this "Nic Stick" works much like lip gloss because the paint and brush are all in one tube. All you do is shake, pump, and paint. So the next time you're in a hurry for a touch up, give the "Nic Stick" a try. Plus it comes in tons of great colors. Our favorite is "Date Night Red."

Pick yours up at your local Walmart or Target Stores.

Prepare For Your Sizzling Hot Honeymoon

The hot summer sun isn't the only thing that will be sizzling this year. You are getting married and that means your honeymoon is just around the corner. During this spring, its pretty hard to concentrate on anything else but your romantic honeymoon following all the upcoming festivities. So what if your wedding isn't until August! Start planning for your getaway now!

We've collected some of the hottest honeymoon items for your trip. If you are like most Northwest brides and grooms, and opting to honeymoon in a sunny climate, we've got just the items you need to cool down from the summer heat.

Most people love to read a good book while sitting poolside or lounging on the beach. But, how often have you left your book sitting on your towel while you take a dip in the water only to return to find your book has been drenched by a nearby cannonballing kid? We found a great solution! Check out the waterproof easy reads from Durabooks (below). These books are a collection of short stories, perfect for honeymoons since you'll be easily distracted by your new hubby. And the best part is, these books are completely waterproof from start to finish. So now when you take a dip in the pool, take your book with you. Available at Amazon.com.


Cool down with homemade ice-kabobs. With this nifty ice-cube tray all you have to do is add water or your favorite flavored juice and, voila, you'll have homemade Popsicles to keep you cool and refreshed all summer long. Available at Patina Stores.

Beach toys are certainly not just for kids. Grab these fabulous beach balls and swim tubes and head to the beach in style (below). Find these ultra stylish beach accessories at Design Room.



For those snorkeling trips or boat rides, what do you do with your cell phone and wallet? Check out the Waterproof Store for great water-friendly packs to keep your valuables dry. What's great about these items is that they allow you to use your electronics without even removing them from their protective cases. Check out our picks below including waterproof wallet cases and waterproof cases for your MP3, cell phones, cameras, and pdas.

Lucky In Love's Color Guide: Yummy Yellow

Of all the colors we've discussed over the last week, yellow is by far the most trendy color for 2009. And it's easy to see why. For some reason, although yellow is considered to be a light color, those who wear it seem to stand out in a crowd. After all, yellow is the color of sunshine, so perhaps wearing it makes you like one big ray of light in a dark room. Whatever the reason, yellow is hot color for this upcoming year.

If you are drawn to the bright, bold hues of yellow, here is what color analyst Leatrice Eiseman of MoreAliveWithColor.com says about you: you tend to be very outgoing and always have a positive attitude. You're likely to be innovative and idealistic, which means you're probably very daring and a true trendsetter.

So if this sounds like you, yellow just may be the color of choice for your upcoming wedding. And if so, follow our guide to help you choose the right shade.

COLOR: YELLOW

Women with dark skin, hair and eyes look incredible in metallic yellow tones like gold and bronze. Because their skin and hair already have dramatic features, wearing colors in these rich shades won't make them look over-the-top because they can stand up against them. Remember, you need to wear your clothes, you're clothes should never wear you.

Women with very light to medium hair and dark eyes should gravitate toward the lighter more natural colors of yellow like lemon and buttercup. Your light hair and skin already shine so pairing it with similar light colors will add natural radiance. Women with darker hair should try even lighter shades like pineapple, butter or cream.

Lastly, women with red hair and rosy skin should try a warm shade of yellow with honey undertones like caramel. Most people can't pull off a color like honey or caramel because their features are too contradictory for the shade, but women with red hair are able to carry off the color without looking washed out.


Top Left: Ava Collection: 495 Satin from MoriLee
Top Center: Yellow Ombre Satin Halter Gown with Rhinestone Detail from Cache
Bottom Left: Jim Hjelm Occasions Style #JH5715
Bottom Center: Jim Hjelm Occasions Style #JH5804T
Right: Aria Bridesmaids


Top Left: Yellow sunflower table setting from Brides
Bottom Left: ball-shaped scabiosa yellow boutonnieres from Brides
Right: Yellow Pom Poms from Martha Stewart Weddings
Bottom Right: Kate Spade Wedding Invitation
Bottom Center: Yellow florals in black and white vases from Brides


Top Left & Center: Tasha Skinny Headband with Enamel Flowers available at Nordstrom
Top Right: Judith Ripka 'Fontaine' Ring available at Nordstrom
Center: Kenneth Jay Lane Large Enamel Flower Ring available at Nordstrom
Center Right: Tasha 'Cracked Glass' Mosaic Bangle available at Nordstrom
Bottom Left: Via Spiga 'Kathy' Sandal available at Nordstrom
Bottom Center: Stuart Weitzman 'Hotspots' Pump available at Nordstrom
Bottom Right: BP. 'Fabulous' Pump available at Nordstrom


Top Left: Tuxedo from the Men's Wearhouse with yellow vest and tie
Top Center: Joseph & Feiss Gold Satin Tie available at the Men's Wearhouse
Top Right: Campia Moda Silk Tie available at the Men's Wearhouse
Bottom Left: Buttercup yellow suit available at the Tux Shop
Bottom Center: Citrine Gemstone Cufflinks available at Cufflinks.com
Bottom Right: Yellow quilted cufflinks from Cufflinks.com

Lucky In Love's Color Guide: Orange U Glad?

Talk about making a statement. There is a reason they use orange as the color for traffic cones. Orange is one of the most eye-catching colors you can choose for your wedding. It's bright hues make it an excellent color choice for a spring and summer wedding. Typically people who are drawn to the color orange are extroverts, and are as outgoing as they are personable, which is why orange-lovers typically have a million and one friends. They crave social environments and are typically charming, happy and magnetic people. Sound like you?

If you are drawn to the color orange, here's how to choose the right hue for your wedding.

COLOR: ORANGE

Those with rosy complexions and medium hair look amazing in lighter more pastel versions of orange like peach and apricot. These orange hues with undertones of pinks and reds usually bring out your already warm features.

For those with olive and pigments of yellow in your skin with dark hair and eyes should try stronger shades of orange like tangerine and mango. People with olive skintones tend to look washed out if they accent their accessories with pastel or muted tones. So, don't shy away from these strong, bold colors.

Women with very dark skin, hair and eyes should try oranges with yellow undertones like melon and carrot. Like women with olive skin, you too need a bold color to pop against your skin. The yellow tints in these types of orange shades will warm your features and add a sunkissed glow to your face.


Above: Gowns by Lula Kate Bridal


Top Left: Orange flowered cake from BridesTop Center: Orange frosted cake from Brides
Top Right: Fancy fruitcake from Brides
Bottom Right: Caramel apples from Brides
Bottom Center: Spiced cider from Brides
Bottom Right: Chocolate and orange and fig cake from Brides


Top Left: Linens available through Aria Style
Top Right: Bouquet by Ravenna Bloom
Bottom Left: Table setting from Brides
Bottom Center: Bridal bouquet from Brides
Bottom Right: Orange and beaded calla lily bouquet from Wedding Style Magazine


Top Left: Favor ideas from Brides
Top Right: Fruit on display from Brides
Bottom Left: Orange chair cover from Brides
Bottom Center: Orange lanterns from Brides
Bottom Right: Orange boutonniere from Brides


Top Left: Nordstrom Enamel Bracelet with Pavé Crystals
Top Right: MAXX NEW YORK 'Thompson - Dégradé' Pleated Clutch available at Nordstrom
Center Left: Alexis Bittar Medium Rose Quartz Baguette Ring available at Nordstrom
Center Right: Lodis 'Bubble Diva' Clutch Wallet available at Nordstrom
Bottom Left: Dabby Reid Ltd. Drop Earrings available at Nordstrom
Bottom Center: Martinez Valero 'Camila' Sandal available at Nordstrom
Bottom Right: Alexis Bittar Large Donut Necklace with Swarovski Crystal available at Nordstrom


Check back Monday for...

Lucky In Love's Color Guide: Romantic Red

If you love the color red, you also love drama. In fact, the more eyes are on you the more comfortable you feel in your own hot red shoes. Just think back to that song "Lady In Red" you danced to at your high school prom. Remember how everyone looked around to see who was wearing the featured color? Indeed, red draws attention. When it comes to your wedding, putting your bridesmaids in the color red will cause you to stand out even more in your white dress against the deep tones that surround you.

Red is a color that represents passion. Passion for life. Passion for romance. Passion for your fiance. It's no coincidence red is the color of love, which is also the reason the wide spectrum of red shades are often used in the most dramatic wedding themes. The color red demands that the person who chooses it must have enough personality and self-assurance to make it work. So if you are just the person to carry it off, here is how to choose the right shade of red for you.

COLOR: RED

Women with dark features, skin tones, eyes and hair usually gravitate to the darker red tones like claret and merlot, and for good reason. Women with dark skin, eyes and hair require bold colors to complement their deep features. Naturally, rich red shades melt into the body and make an already sultry woman even more seductive. VaVaVoom.

Women with olive or yellow skin pigments look incredible in more candy apple and berry reds. Muted tones will make you look washed out so choose a bright and sassy red shade to accentuate your already exotic features.

For women with more pink or rosy skin tones and light to medium hair should try a much lighter shade of red like coral or even pink. Midtone pastels work well with women with medium complexions and offer a natural and fresh style.



Left: Spaghetti strap, A-line from Bari Jay Style: 759
Top Center: Starlet taffeta from Bari Jay Style: 518
Top Right: Strapless, tea-length gown from Bari Jay Style: 756
Bottom Center: Halter, organza bodice from Bari Jay Style: 757
Bottom Right: Jolie satin, strapless, tea-length from Bari Jay Style: 501


Top Left: Red damask cake from Brides
Bottom Left: Red scroll cake from Brides
Right: Airbrushed peony cake from Wedding Style Magazine


Top Left: Calla Lilly claret bouquet from Wedding Style Magazine
Bottom Left: Scarlet table setting from Brides
Bottom Center: Red hypericum berries intensify the celosia’s vibrant red hue from Brides
Top Right: Fireworks bouquet from Wedding Style Magazine
Bottom Right: Red table accessories from Brides


Top Left: Paprika Gold linens from BBJ Linens
Top Right: Composition wedding invitation from Elum available at Moxie Paper Goods
Bottom Left: Table setting by Rented Elegance
Bottom Right: Serve red kissed drinks, photo from Brides


Top Left: Dior Red Premiere Lipstick from Sephora
Top Center: Calvin Klein red nail polish from Sephora
Top Right: Kat Von D Painted Love Lipstick from Sephora
Bottom Left: Martinez Valero 'Coca' Sandal available at Nordstrom
Bottom Center: Martinez Valero 'Camila' Sandal available at Nordstrom
Bottom Right: kate spade 'hera' pump available at Nordstrom

Check back tomorrow for...

Lucky In Love's Color Guide: Something Blue

Feeling the blues? According to color analyst, Leatrice Eiseman of MoreAliveWithColor.com, those who love the shade of blue are typically gentle, loyal and discreet individuals. Much like a clear blue sky or the peaceful waves of the ocean, the color blue brings a sense of peace and tranquility to any setting, which makes blue an ideal shade for your wedding. Leatrice also says that people drawn to the color blue also form strong attachments. And what attachment is stronger than the vow of marriage?

Like the other colors we've already analyzed, blue also comes in many shades and tones. So if you choose to go blue, follow our guide to picking the right shade for you. (Hey, that rhymed).

COLOR: BLUE

For those of you with light hair and skin tones, light blue shades like sky blue or periwinkle are the right tones for you. This light shade of b