What to Do With Your Dress After the Wedding

It's been a few weeks or even months since your wedding day and your dress is still hanging on the back of your closet door. Sound familiar? You're not alone. After spending so much time and money trying to find the perfect gown, many brides are unsure of what to do with it after the wedding. Don't worry, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few ideas to help you with your decision. 
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Preserve It
If you're looking to keep your gown in perfect condition for as long as possible, then preservation might be right for you. Wedding dress preservation is a special cleaning and packaging process that protects the fabric from yellowing, staining, creasing, and even insect damage. You can check for local services, pick up a kit, or even send it away to be treated. Once preserved, it should be kept sealed and untouched to avoid exposure to the elements. This ensures it will look beautiful for years to come and enable you to pass it on to future generations. If you're worried your gown will be out of style by then, remember, your daughter can always opt to use your veil, or even just some of the fabric to design a new dress or create details like a bouquet wrap. 
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Sell It
Wedding dresses can cost a lot of money, and for some brides, the idea of spending even more just to keep them boxed up for 20 years seems impractical. If you're willing to part with your dress, selling it is a great way to recoup some of what you spent and save some space in your closet. There are plenty of women out there who are planning their wedding on a budget and would love to get their hands on a designer gown for a lower price even if it's already been worn. From Ebay to consignment shops, there are several outlets to choose from. Websites like preownedweddingdresses.com can help you develop a detailed listing for your dress and connect you with potential buyers for a quicker and easier selling process.
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Donate It
Another great option for those who don't want to hang on to their dress is donation. You won't offset any wedding costs, but you will get the satisfaction of knowing your gown served such a meaningful purpose. Do some research to find an organization that you care about. There are so many out there, from Brides Across America, which donates dresses to military couples, to Brides Against Breast Cancer, which raises money to provide wellness and educational services to cancer patients and their families. Your dress gave you so much happiness. Why not use it to make a positive impact on the lives of others as well?
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Trash It
Trash the Dress shoots have become increasingly popular in recent years. During these photography sessions, couples get to let loose in their wedding attire without having to worry about getting dirty. In fact, getting dirty is the whole point. Whether you choose to swim in the ocean, play in a field or pose on a rundown city street, you'll end up with some amazing memories and truly unique photos. 
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Turn It Into Art
Regardless of what you decide to do with your dress, chances are you'll want to see it again in some form. Photographs are a great way to capture and display the beauty of your gown, but you can also take it a step further. Check out websites like Etsy or Illustrative Moments where artists can turn the photos of your dress into a custom sketch or painting. The results are beautiful and can make great pieces of art for your home. 
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Restyle It
Every bride wants to look her best on her wedding day, so chances are you put some serious effort into finding a dress that really flattered you and made you feel great. Why not make that feeling last? Break out your sewing machine or work with a local seamstress to shorten and even dye your dress so you can wear it again and again. While this wouldn't work for every gown, many of today's simple silhouettes really lend themselves to restyling. 
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Repurpose It
Cutting up your wedding dress might initially seem like a harsh idea, but don't count it out entirely. The fabric from your gown can be transformed into a variety of creative keepsakes that will get a lot of use and won't take up as much room. From blankets and pillows to Christmas tree skirts and Christening outfits, the sky's the limit. I especially love the idea of using a bit of lace from your dress to create a necklace or other jewelry. It's the perfect solution for anyone who wants to pass down a family heirloom without having to keep or preserve the whole gown. 

When it comes to the fate of your wedding dress, the possibilities are endless, so give it some thought and make the choice that's right for you. 

-Laura

Weddings by Color {Emerald}

My all time favorite color has always been green; in fact, I'm wearing green jeans as I write this blog. I just so happen to be a May baby too, making my birthstone emerald. So, when Pantone listed Emerald green as the 2013 "color of the year", you bet I was totally on board. Even though 2013 only has a few months left, this color is sure to stay around for some time, so don't be afraid to showcase it in your 2014 wedding. 

Though any green colors are always a great fit for a wedding, this specific emerald green is the perfect match for wedding decor, not quite too dark to be hunter green and not too bright to seem lime green, it's the perfect compromise and makes a great complement to any other wedding color...except maybe red. 

Here are a few ways you can incorporate my favorite color (and hopefully yours) into your wedding day: 

The exact Pantone color: Emerald #17-5641...
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Start with the ring...
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Give your guests a hint at the color scheme through your Save the Date and Invitations...
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Dress up your bridesmaids...
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Or give them a splash of green with this necklace...
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Wear a touch of green in a statement necklace for yourself too...
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And don't forget these great green shoes...
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Dress up your man by making him stand out from his groomsmen...
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Give your ring bearer a four leaf clover "pillow"...
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Carry a gorgeous green bouquet like this...
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Dress your tables with green centerpieces...
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Use funky patterned green napkins...
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Or use these awesome green chairs to add a big splash of color to a simple room...
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Decorate with touches of green with these vases...
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Make it look vintage with green books like these...
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Have guests find their seats with escort cards placed in green grass...
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Go green with your cake...
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And lastly, drive away at the end of the night on this green trolley...
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If you ask me, too much green can never be enough, but you also don't want to overdo it, so choose wisely!

-Caitlin

Teaser Tuesday

It was a night full of unconditional love at Shay and Aramis' wedding on Saturday! They started out with hair and makeup by Michael Christopher Salon- the bride and her bridesmaids looked beautiful! Shay and Aramis were married at the gorgeous St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Wilmington, Delaware, followed by photos at Gibraltar Gardens. Ali Baba Limousine provided a 2013 Porsche Panamera Limousine with Jet Doors for the lovely couple to arrive in style. Then, it was off to Greenville Country Club to enjoy the delicious food and dance the night away to the music from Synergetic Sound and Lighting's DJ Matt. Flowers by Yukie created breathtaking florals, while adding string lights throughout the extended tent adding to the romantic reception. We always love working with the very talented Alicia from Blossom Productions, and we can't wait to see the couple's professional photos from M2 Photography. It was an unforgettable night! -Amanda
It rained on Saturday? Who knew?! Certainly no one at Greenbriar Farm celebrating the marriage of Katie and Dan! The day started with the girls getting their hair and makeup done at Currie Salon, and they looked beautiful! The bridal party made their way, in their cowboy boots, to the Zion Lutheran Church and it was packed with guests. By the time the ceremony started there was standing room only in the back of the church. After a short ceremony, the bride and groom left the church in a convertible Chevelle that was decorated with some beer cans, red solo cups and a "Just Married" banner. Foschi Photography took the bridal party to a few of their favorite locations for pictures before meeting guests at Greenbriar Farm for the cocktail hour and reception. The tent, provided by E Tent, looked gorgeous with string lighting provided by Nova Event Lighting and flower arrangements made by the bride's Uncle Mark. Guests enjoyed the food catered by by Aggie O'Brien and Co. and then the party got started! The cow print cake, made by Cakes by Kim, was delicious! Big House Band played a variety of music that kept the dance floor packed the entire night! Guests were even chanting "one more song" when the band was done! Katie and Dan were sad the day came to an end but their guests will be talking about their wedding for years to come. -Annemarie
What a gorgeous day for an amazing couple! Laura and John were surrounded by family and friends as they said "I Do" in a heartfelt and personal ceremony at Normandy Farms on Sunday. Even their dog, Mercedes, made an appearance! Guests then headed into the Silos Ballroom for a delicious dinner and reception. The couple was touched by heartfelt speeches from the father of the bride, bride's sister, and bride's nephew. The dance floor was packed all night, thanks to Mike from EBE Talent and guests were lined up to take photos at the photobooth, provided by Shutterbooth. Finally, the couple cut their beautiful wedding cake, topped with their personal Star Wars themed cake topper. We can't wait to see the gorgeous photos from Christopher Alexandra Photography, but for now, here are a few teasers of our own. -Jen

Dressing Up Your Bouquet

Wouldn't you like to be a little more fun and different on your wedding day? For a bride who wants their wedding bouquet to stand out, choosing that perfectly colored flower or a favorite floral arrangement may be too simple. To spice up a wedding bouquet, adding just a minor detail or becoming crafty, a "do it yourself" type, may just be the ticket. Whether your wedding style leans more towards traditional or trendy, there are plenty of alternative options that you can add to make your bouquet stand out among the rest. 
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For the more sophisticated bride, this jewel accented bouquet will add the perfect amount of sparkle to any basic bouquet. You could also add lace to your bouquet by using a piece from your own dress (after alterations), or lace from your mother or grandmother's gown to add a sentimental touch. 
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This is a common addition to a bouquet but is special nonetheless! You can purchase a charm and add a photo of loved one so that you can carry them with you, throughout your special day. 
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For a unique bride, adding wire to the top of your bouquet or the top your bridesmaids' bouquet, can be a perfect touch to stand out in the simplest of ways. 
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I love this addition of scrabble pieces to the stems of this bouquet. Perfect for a fun loving couple!
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We have all seen one or two stunning all brooch bouquets, but if you can't commit to an entire bouquet of brooches, try adding just one or two to your bouquet or even to the stem to add a little bit of sparkle. 
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We've talked about non-floral bouquets in the past but if you want to just add a few paper or fabric flowers to your bouquet, it can be the perfect accent and pop when mixed in with your favorite flowers. 

There are plenty of ways to dress up your bouquet and make it stand out. Consider adding something special to you as a couple since this bouquet will be photographed with you all day long and will be the perfect accessory for your wedding day!

-Amanda

The Perfect Speech

Whether you've known the bride/groom since college or the first day of kindergarten, writing a wedding speech can be a doozy. Since the majority of us skimmed through our public speaking classes, it's safe to say choking in front of a room filled with friends and family is a definite possibility. Here are a few tips to get you through it. 
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Stay Sober
This is a no brainer. If you'd like to sample a cocktail or throw back a shot before getting up in front of the guests, by all means go for it; it will calm your nerves. But whatever you do, avoid being the drunken fool that almost ruined the reception. You don't want that black cloud hanging over you for years to come. Know your limits and use caution before giving your speech. 

Skip the Note Cards
That's not to say you can't prep with note cards, but don't bring them to the reception. Trying to hold cards and a microphone while delivering your speech will never work. You'll end up focusing on the cards rather than making eye contact with those seated in the room. No one wants to stare at the top of your head. It's better to stay in the moment and relish the positive energy from those around you. 
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The other downfall to note cards is that you'll end up trying to memorize your speech verbatim. When memorizing, you get caught up in the repetition and if you mix up the order of the speech, you'll find yourself grasping for what comes next. You'd be better off loosely planning out the flow, keeping those main talking points in mind and prepping the day before or morning of. Don't be afraid of stumbling here and there, you're only human. People expect awkward pauses; reading off a card makes even the best speaker sound like a robot. 

How You Know the Bride and Groom
Remember that not everyone in attendance knows who you are, so introduce yourself. Give them a little background on your relationship with the bride and groom. (If it's a particularly obscene story, and I'll leave that up to your discretion, keep some of the details to yourself. There's a time and place, so make the story as "PG" as possible). Your goal is to make everyone in the room feel welcome. The bride and groom bestowed the honor upon you to give a speech, so make the most of it. 
Leslie and Aaron's Wedding
Photo courtesy of mkPhoto
Since this is the first time you may be meeting some of the wedding guests, make sure to glance around the room. Guests will appreciate feeling a part of the moment and will warm up to you a lot faster. This is also the perfect opportunity to detail the bride and groom as you know them, their individual traits, what makes them a great pair and how much they mean to you. 

Anecdote about Marriage, Love, or Commitment 
Cliches are always acceptable here, but find a way to personalize them. A prime example, "Don't marry the one you can see the rest of your life with, but wait to marry the one you can't see the rest of your life without". Sappy, yes, but when you tie it back to the couple you're toasting and paint a bigger picture of their life together and the adventures that lie ahead, there won't be a dry eye in the room. 
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You can also recap how the bride and groom met. Not all of the guests may be familiar with their history. Again, keep this "PG" as possible since the start of their love story probably wasn't fitting of a Disney movie romance. 

Opt for Self-Deprecation 
No one likes to be the butt of the joke. Granted, at most weddings there are always a fair share of one liners at the bride/groom's expense, but take the high road on this one. Like any good comedian, use your humor to mock yourself instead. Guests will feel more comfortable laughing at your expense, and you won't put the happy couple under the microscope with an embarrassing story that they'd rather their grandmother not hear. Believe me, everyone in attendance will pat you on the back and possibly pick up your tab for the rest of the night. (I've seen it firsthand.)
Marcy and Dermot's Wedding
Photo courtesy of mkPhoto
And Best Speech Goes To...
To wrap up your speech, end with a toast in honor of the newlyweds. Congratulate them and wish them all the happiness starting their new life together. You can be as sentimental as you'd like, but if you're the type to shed a tear, keep a few tissues handy. Try your best to not turn into a blubbering mess. If all else fails and the waterworks win out in the end, raise your glass to the bride and groom, thank them for allowing you to be a part of their beautiful celebration and drink!

-Melanie

Reception Dresses

So now that you have found the perfect dress...how about another one?

Have you ever considered having a reception dress?
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Many brides today choose to have two dresses, one for the ceremony and formalities and one for the reception festivities. There are many reasons this could interest you and make your day more unique and enjoyable.

Traditionally, brides have worn one gown for both the ceremony and the reception, however more and more brides are opting for a second dress to saunter around their reception in. 
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Reception dresses are usually short and lighter than the ceremony dress. This is also a reason to consider a reception dress. If your dress is heavy or has a very long train, changing into a second dress may allow you more freedom to move around the rest of the night. 
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Having a reception dress also adds a unique element to your wedding since many brides choose to stick to one dress, this gives guests another detail to remember about your night! This is also an opportunity to add a pop of color if you want. 
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Reception dresses don't have to be short either, maybe you just wanted a lighter, fun, or simply a different style for the reception.
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Or maybe you just fell in love with two dresses! If it fits in your budget, incorporate that second dress as the reception dress. 
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Or you can simply change into it at the end of the reception and be prepared for the after party! Feel free to add some bling!

Many girls may dream of that one dress you will have all of your wedding memories in, but if you want to spread the memories into a second fashion element, a reception dress is a great way to add a unique touch to your wedding and allow you a more carefree ensemble to dance the night away in. 
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Carrie Underwood did!

-Gina